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NEXT GENERATION FILMAKERS

SELINA McCALLUM/TORONTO CARIBBEAN

What is it like being black in Toronto? Six young black filmmakers showcased their short documentary films at the 8th Toronto Black Film Festival last Friday that told their own story or the story of someone else.

The filmmakers were part of a project called Youth and Diversity Program hosted by the Fabienne Colas Foundation which enabled fifteen youths from Montreal, Toronto and Halifax to create eight

to ten-minute-long documentary shorts.

The youth were guided through the process every step of the way, learning from industry professionals in audiovisual production, screenwriting, directing, and post-production.

Their short films are then a part of black film festivals in Montreal, Halifax and Toronto. They even get free travel and accommodation to attend the film festivals.

Six youth were selected from Toronto to make their films.

The Toronto cohort was mentored and guided by Oya Media Group and Pathway to Industry who also generously gave their professional equipment to use for the making of the films.

Each film was unique and told a story that dove beyond the surface in only ten minutes.

Continued On Page 5

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FEATURE

PAGE 2

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

SENATOR DR. SAPHIRE LONGMORE I am a Woman, I am a Mother, I am Strength “I came into my own publicly and recognized and declared, I am a Woman, I am a Mother, and I am Strength.

I will still rise and will roar.” ~ Saphire Longmore It is not every day that you get a chance to meet a psychiatrist who is a: Government Senator, former Miss Jamaica Universe, and a breast cancer survivor. It makes Senator Dr. Longmore the perfect Woman Empowered. If asked, she will tell you her best title to date is being a mom to two little men Axl and Neo.

Dr. Longmore is a proud Clarendonian who attended the Glenmuir High School where she was the deputy head girl. Saphire is a miracle that couldn’t wait to happen.

Saphire’s mom Elaine went to the doctor for her last visit before her due date and was told the baby died. This was a devastating time for her everyone. While her mom was getting ready to go to the hospital she went in labor. Saphire was born right there and then in her Grandma’s home in Clarendon.

After graduating from Glenmuir High School without a doubt, she Written by Noel Cunningham knew she wanted to become Toronto Caribbean News a doctor. She graduated from

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medical school at the age of 22, then took a 10-year break to travel and flex other muscles. Returning to her roots, she became a qualified psychiatrist in 2011.

Currently, she mantains her own private practice and is a Consultant Psychiatrist at The University of the West Indies.

In 2000, Dr. Longmore finally gave in to her mother’s request to enter the Miss Jamaica Universe Competition. Little did she know she was about to create history. She entered and walked away with the crown of Miss Jamaica Universe that year.

This makes her the first practising medical doctor to enter and win a beauty pageant in Jamaica.

“This title is not one that I emphasize on a lot; however, it’s one that I’m grateful for and it was great exposure.” Dr. Longmore tells me. Sadly two years later her mother passed away. “I am happy and thankful she was alive to witness that moment.”

Since then she has worked in the print media and even hosted television and radio shows, which have been aired nationally, regionally and internationally.

One would wonder what a beauty queen and a medical doctor is doing in politics? Senator Longmore’s aim is to improve the health of the people.

“You can improve the health of one person by writing a prescription. Imagine, I am in a position where I have a say on policy and programs. It allows me to improve the lives of a greater number of the population.”

“Sometimes life throws things at you.”

In 2017 Dr. Longmore experienced an awakening.

What many would consider the end, she calls it the beginning. “On October 3rd, 2017, my life changed.

The day after Breast Cancer Awareness Month was launched the quintessential happened: I stepped out the shower and felt a lump in my breast. A lump that had been there for a few weeks, but only at that moment did I become ‘aware’ of it. Immediately I felt it, I knew; it was the big C. My mind was void.”

“It’s a day I will never forget. I was preparing to go to work where I was conducting ward rounds at the hospital, after which I was to get my kids from school and run errands. I conducted the two-hour round in a daze, sticking to the clinical care of my patients and teaching the students, knowing well the possibility of that being the last time I would be doing it. My brain was numb with the looming awareness. I had cancer.

I completed my day and said nothing to no one. I had to grasp the reality myself first. I had to plan a course of action. I felt sadness, anger, shock, fear, and gratitude; gratitude because it was purely

by God’s handiwork that I came to be given a chance to save myself; a chance that I also immediately knew I was going to make the most of.”

The Rebirth One year later Dr. Longmore was cancer-free. She did her last phase of treatment to reduce the chances of recurrence. She described this phase as a moment of finding her purpose; something greater than herself.

She took control of what she could and accepted what she couldn’t.

Facing Reality “One year ago, two weeks after my last treatment I was hoisted into a reality that who I thought was standing by my side was no longer there.”

On February 2nd, 2020, Dr. Longmore found the courage to share her truth with her thousands of Facebook followers. “In this life, I have come to accept and appreciate nothing is certain. There are no guarantees no matter how much you plan and take precautions. Today marks the better part of a full year I thought I would have only been celebrating the ending of my formal treatment for cancer. I would have had my last treatment, and I should have been on the road to breathing new life and seeking to not just survive, but thrive. But instead, I had to embrace one of the harshest realities. I had to face the end of my marriage. Yep! Real reality.”

Being the strong Saphire that she is, her main focus now is raising two young men. On a larger scale, she is focusing on what impacts crime in Jamaica, and how we can use the little money we have to reduce violence in society. She is also leading the charge to identify how mental health can be tackled at the family and community level.

“Be effective in taking care of yourself foster and nurture healthy relationships.”

Saphire has some words of wisdom. “Women, especially those of you are the center of their families, and who tend to neglect themselves in the pursuit of their family’s happiness. The best way to achieve this happiness is by being there yourself, and being in the best health you can be.”

She explains the importantance of starting a health plan that includes: diet, exercise, stress management, spiritual exploration, laughter, screening, and health insurance. “I am one of those who have been fortunate to access all the above, being fully aware many can’t. This doesn’t mean significant effectiveness can’t be had with scarce resources and meaningful lifestyle changes,” reasons Saphire.

“One Life to Live. Live it.”

Saphire will tell you that she is an avid water-sport enthusiast. She is an accomplished: snorkeller, scuba diver and swimmer. Let me not forget to add that she is the life of the party. At the end of the day, she aspires to be the best doctor, mom, and senator she can be.

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Wednesday, February 19, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

LOCAL NEWS

PAGE 3

Fish and rum; The rich trade history between Newfoundland and Jamaica SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Did you know that the famous breakfast dish Ackee and Saltfish, is due to a negotiated exchange between Newfoundland and Jamaica?

When I visited Newfoundland in 2016, I did notice how similar the Newfoundland accent was to the Jamaican

accent. They say words like, “Ting,” and “G’wan.” It might have a different context, but it sure does sound the same.

Another notable similarity found between the two islands is Jamaicans call their country “Jam-Rock,” while Newfoundland locals refer to their home as “The Rock.”

On Friday, February 14th, 2020, I had an opportunity to learn a side of this story delivered in an artistic way. Presented in partnership with the Al Green Theatre, “Fish and Rum” was a theatre/video production that explored the rich trade history between Newfoundland and Jamaica.

During a time of prohibition in Canada, Jamaica had struck up a deal with Newfoundland; Jamaica would receive their favourite codfish from Newfoundland, and in return, Jamaica would send the province its precious rum. During this time, rum was loaded into ships from Jamaican ports at a very high alcohol content (140 proof ). This was potent enough to sizzle and scald human entrails. It had to be diluted once it landed in Newfoundland.

In some cases, empty barrels were shipped over from Jamaica.

The rum was so potent, that some of the islanders would just have to add some water and let it sit in the barrels for a while. After standing for a couple weeks, it turned into what was

called “Swish,” which was then resold secretly.

The hilariously written script depicts what happens when there is a breakdown in communication and trade between the two islands. John Parsons, head of the Newfoundland family, one day decides to send lesser-grade cod to Jamaica, thinking no one will notice. Unfortunately, Roxroy James, the recipient in Kingston, does notice, and retaliates by sending lesser-grade barrels. Thus, begins a race to the bottom that has serious consequences for both families, and their communities.

Andrew Craig (Culchahworks Founder and Artistic Director) produced this unconventional live read. This Guelphbased multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, producer, directory, composer, broadcaster, and impresario decided to step way out the box when creating this fictionalized retelling of a real story.

Culchahworks Art Collective is a Toronto-based, not-for-profit arts organization, established in 2013. It was created as a way to celebrate stories drawn from the: African-Canadian, Caribbean-Canadian, and the African-American cultures.

What was unique was the multimedia arts presentation that was used for the show. I have never been to a live read, so I had no idea what to expect.

Although the script had the audience laughing, at times I found the show hard to follow. There seemed to be some technical difficulties that night, and sometimes the images did not match the reading, or at times we were just staring at a blank screen. These things do happen, and regardless of the technical difficulties, I learned a lot.

I had no idea about this relationship between Newfoundland and Jamaica. Thanks to Andrews’s creative ingenuity, I was introduced to hybrid theatre. Not bad for a Friday night.

LOCAL NEWS

PAGE 4

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Business first. Lime later WeirFoulds, LLP host their 3rd Annual Caribbean Fête SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER I must say this email caught me off guard. Imagine my amazement when I found out that there was going to be a Fête on Bay St.

On Thursday, February 13th, 2020, my curiosity got the best of me. If you can recall, February 13th was one of the coldest days this winter. I believe we had dipped into the negatives, but here I was, fur jacket on, ready to Fête on a Thursday night.

The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited by the Caribbean Practice Group (WeirFoulds, LLP) to the firm’s 3rd Annual Caribbean Fête on Bay St. This year they had guests who had flown in from Trinidad, Israel, Turks & Caicos, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands. Upon my arrival, I realized quickly that it was a night that I was not going to forget.

I want to take a moment here to thank Kathryn Riley, the Communication and Content Specialist for WeirFoulds, LPP. She went above and beyond to ensure that my experience was a pleasurable one. She took the time to send mapped out details of where to park so that I would not have to deal with one bit of that treacherous cold. Attention to detail Kathryn. I love it.

When I arrived, Kathryn greeted me and took me upstairs to meet the team. I had the pleasure of meeting Frank Walwyn, and

Nadia Chiesa two members of the Caribbean Practice Group. I did not have an opportunity to meet Kayla Theeuwen, but during my interview with Nadia Chiesa, she shared the story of how this team came to be.

Frank Walwyn is a proud St. Kitts native, with a jolly disposition. The island of St. Kitts has a lot to be proud of with this man. He was named one of the Top 25 Most Influential in the justice system and legal profession in Canada. He is also one of Canada’s top lawyers in the area of Corporate and Commercial Litigation He is currently licensed to practise law in Canada and is also a member of the bars of Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, the British Virgin Islands (BVI), Dominica, Grenada and St. Kitts and Nevis.

Kayla Theeuwen joined the team four or five years ago. She is an associate in the litigation practice group at WeirFoulds, LLP. She specializes in resolving complex commercial and multi-jurisdictional disputes in Canada, Central America and the Eastern Caribbean.

Kayla received her Legal Education Certificate from Norman Manley Law School in Kingston Jamaica in 2019, and she has been called to the Bar in the Caribbean and Ontario.

Nadia Chiesa started working with Frank as a student and discovered her love for cross practice eight or nine years ago. She is the co-chair of the Caribbean Practice Group at WeirFoulds, LLP. She specializes in commercial litigation and multi-jurisdictional disputes.

Nadia is called to the bar in Ontario, as well as St. Kitts and Nevis and BVI. I managed to steal a little bit of her time, and we discussed this refreshing idea.

“The idea was initially sparked by a group of Black Partners on Bay St. They decided to host a carnival-influenced event at their firm, and they actually did it at their firm. When we

Nadia Chiesa (Left), Frank Walwyn (Middle), Kayla Theeuwen (Right) Photo: WeirFoulds first sent invitations out for our first Fête, no one knew what Lime, or Fête meant. We hosted it at the firm the first year, and people were instantly blown away. We decided to continue this, not just for us, but also for the community. We wanted a way to showcase the great cultural environment that we get to spend time in, and it is a wonderful way to make connections.”

They went all the way this year. The partnered with Ryerson University’s Design Fabrication Zone, to educate guests on Carnival costumes, which were on full display the entire evening. Candice, alongside her husband Dwayne Dixon had a vision. They were determined to find a way to preserve cultural traditions and add technological innovation.

SugaCayne Designs uses creative technology (3D printing, laser cutting, and thermoplastic

modelling) in their costume making, all the while preserving artistic and cultural integrity.

Guests had a chance to Lime virtually.

We were instructed to put on the VR headset and take in what we saw. It was the craziest thing. If it weren’t for the slight cold breeze I felt on the nape of my neck, I would have sworn I was at Carnival.

There is still so much in Toronto to discover. As a newspaper, it is our responsibility to tell the community about the great things that are happening in Toronto, in Ontario, in Canada, and in the Caribbean Diaspora. Another great advantage: now you have a group of lawyers you can send your family too if they live in the islands. The Caribbean Practice Group of WeirFoulds, LPP are Canadian Trained, Caribbean Focused, and Globally Minded.

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Wednesday, February 19, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

salina@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Continued From Page 1 -- Sharine Taylor is the director and writer of Tallawah Abroad: Remembering Little Jamaica, a film that looks at how the construction of the Eglinton Crosstown Line on Eglinton West has affected the town of Little Jamaica in Toronto.

The hardest part of filming for Taylor was leaving once they got all the footage, they needed to tell the story.

“One of the things that I felt that I had to contend with is that once this production wraps and we’re ready to go, people still have to live through whatever realities they have to live through,� said Taylor.

The store that Taylor originally wanted to feature closed down before the shoot days for her film, leaving her to find another store in Little Jamaica to feature.

She hopes that this film will let folks know that this a place that needs to be chronicled.

“I hope that folks get to see how these communities are being affected,� said Taylor. “These are the side effects of gentrification.�

Mr. Small, business owner in Little Jamaica, who was interviewed in Tallawah Abroad, said, “We have seen days, weeks, where you do no business.

No wants to come. We were hoping there should be some resources of which they would compensate us for the amount of business that we lost during the construction. If all the Jamaicans are one, and the Jamaican businesses are gone, you can’t see it as a Jamaican community.�

Taylor enjoyed her time and learned a lot while being a part of the Youth and Diversity Program.

“It’s very much a collaborative process. My background is in theatre and writing so I think filmmaking requires a strong sense of community at least amongst the people that you’re work-

â€

SELINA McCALLUM

ing with. I was grateful that I was given the opportunity to see what that aspect might be like and going forward how to create community amongst the folks that I’m working with for future productions,� said Taylor.

2005 was coined the “year of the gun� by the media in Toronto. Adrian Wallace’s film, Black Sun, documented two women anguished by acts of gun violence. During the question and answer period, Wallace told the audience that he almost didn’t have any subjects to shoot as the two girls he was going to interview decided to not partake in the documentary the night before shooting.

With the power of social media, he reached out to people on his Instagram and Facebook accounts and asked people to put him in touch with anyone who has been affected by gun violence directly. It didn’t take long for him to get responses.

Valerie Amponsah was one of the filmmakers that decided to share her own experience of being black in Toronto by filming the relationships between herself and her father, as well as the relationship between her mother and father.

The scene opens up with her crying as she tells her father she will not accept his apology for walking out on her, her sisters and her mother when she was a child. The audience is able to see her build on her broken relationship with her father, and how her mother still cares for him even though he hurt them.

Yasmin Evering-Kerr’s film is called The Onyx Butterfly which is a poetic documentary about a black male competitive dancer. Yvano WickhamEdwards’ film is called #BLACK and analyzes how social media has disillusioned Canada’s black youth and offers a solution. Omolola Ajao’s film YYZ was also a personal story as she was speaking to her mother about what it was like adjusting to life in Canada from Nigeria.

The stories that were told on Friday night were all extremely important and could in some way relate to any black person living in Toronto.

The Toronto Black Film Festival wrapped up its last day on February 17th.

To learn more about the Being Black in Canada program and how you can be involved, visit the Toronto Black Film Festival website.

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Wednesday, February 19, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 7

Five black photojournalists give us a blast from the past

TC REPORTER An exhibit at the Meridan Arts Centre called Ears, Eyes, Voice, brings together important visual works by black Canadian Photojournalists Jules Elder, Eddie Grant, Diane Liverpool, Al Peabody and Jim Russell from the 1970s to 1990s.

The exhibit is free to the public and open from Thursday to Sunday starting at 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. until March 8th.

It is presented by TO Live and organized and circulated by Black Artists’ Networks in Dialogue (BAND), and generously sponsored

by Scotiabank.

Ariana Shaw, program coordinator of TO Live, an organization that connects three art venues in Toronto, was thrilled to see so many people add their own perspective to curator Dr. Julie Crooks tour of the exhibition on February 16th.

“People sharing their own memory of this memory, this history in Toronto, which was so lovely and so wonderful to hear because everyone has their own perspectives and I think that really kind of helps getting to know people’s perspectives and really helps create this contribution of this diverse Toronto” said Shaw.

BAND is dedicated to supporting, documenting and showcasing the artistic and cultural contributions of black artists and cultural workers in Canada and internationally. Their vision is to connect black culture to

Black Community Action Network; revolutionizing the family structure in Peel SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER The next question is how can we help support BCAN? How can we get BCAN more funding to do more work? That’s the next question. How can we share our voices and get on more boards – because boards are where big decisions happen.

Councillor Charmaine Williams

On Thursday, February 6th, 2020, Toronto Caribbean Newspaper made their way over to Gospel Café in Mississauga, to join the community in welcoming a compelling new initiative, endeavoured to revolutionize the family structure in Peel region.

Sophia Brown Ramsay (Executive Director at Black Community Action Network), her team, and Peel Children’s Aid hosted a prestigious breakfast to launch their new joint program strategically named Akoma Wraparound Service Model. In this article, I plan to lay out the spark of this initiative, the plans surrounding this initiative, and the amazing people behind it.

Sophia Brown Ramsay became the Executive Director at BCAN in January 2018, and since then there has been a shift in the way that the organization works with the community.

Her actions continue to inspire others to dream more, do more and become more. Innovation is definitely what distinguishes Sophia from others in her field. Her vast experiences range. She began her career in the criminal justice system working with young offenders and women.

From 2014-2018, she served as Diversity and Community Development Manager, and has been recognized and awarded for outstanding

accomplishments. She remains at the forefront of community-led efforts to promote equity for African-Canadians and other radicalized groups throughout Peel.

Her current position at BCAN allows her to work with various organizations, professionals, residents and allies in the community.

The goal; to promote change and community empowerment through: advocacy, community education, community organizing and research.

The powerful vision is to establish a strong and vibrant Afro-Caribbean community.

Let’s get to the issue at hand. There have been documented troubling experiences of anti-black racism faced by African-Canadian students within education. Many of these experiences are related to excessive discipline and suspensions. It has stirred community response and prompted the Public District School Board to conduct an internal study of the experiences of black male students.

It has also been found that 41% of youth in care were black, which is particularly concerning when black youth comprise of about 8 to 9 % of the city’s population. This is not a new issue. At least since the 1970’s, the community has been talking about this issue of overrepresentation. Talk, but no real action has been taken.

What is the reason for this in-action?

Part of it is due to the assumptions we have about black families. The idea of the: lazy, incompetent and angry parents who are responsible for abusing their children. It is the reason why these children are removed from the homes right? It is hard to sum up the issues without taking into consideration our own racist biases in forming the decisions we make in response to families who are vulnerable.

As these assumptions and challenges continue to resurface, it is Sophia, her team at BCAN, and CAS who have decided that enough was enough.

“What can BCAN do? What can we do to address this issue within our community? ~ Sophia Brown Ramsay

Sophia has shown the true mark of a leader.

She has a team along with community partners that are willing to stick with a bold course of action. They have devised an unconventional strategy, which in this day and age is the only way to stand out from the crowd and to stand for something special. That something special is the Akoma Wraparound Service Model.

Akoma is the Akan (Ghanian) word for heart. The focus is increasing the well-being of African-Caribbean-Black-Canadian families who have become part of the child welfare system in Peel. In order to provide effective support, the BCAN team came to some significant conclusions: 1.

2.

Black focussed organizations should partner with mainstream agencies and funders to develop a capacity building initiative for black focussed agencies.

Leaders of black focussed agencies should create a leadership roundtable that would support system level planning and coordination.

Once these two important points were established, the rest of the initiative began to fall into place.

The Akoma Wraparound Service Model is culturally centred and intended to meet: social, mental and economical needs. It includes joint child protection visits with a CAS child protection worker and counsellor with Afrocentric competencies to ensure use of black-focused best practices. The families have access to support that will address social determinants such as: employment, housing, education and childcare. The program also addresses mental health needs of the family by facilitating mental health service support through other partnerships fostered by BCAN. 95% of the work is done in the families home, right at the kitchen table.

The work that BCAN and CAS of Peel are doing embodies community, family, love and spirit. The have found a way to bring diverse groups of people to a table to do constructive and meaningful work in the community.

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forms that gave black communities a voice like newspapers Share, Contract and the Burning Spear.

“It allowed people to find out what was happening in parts of Africa, what’s happening locally and everything in between because those stories were not part of the Canadian mainstream story or narrative, so you kind of looked to your own to get those stories,” said Dr. Crooks.

Dr. Crooks feels that now mainstream media has shifted its lens to show more representation and there are a lot more digital platforms for larger communities. She feels that the acknowledgement of black art and people need to be ongoing, and not just in one month.

“I think we need to caution that it isn’t only about one month, that we should always be inserting ourselves and thinking about ourselves throughout the year and making that willful in all of the things that we do,” said Dr. Crooks.

Her favourite photo is of Peter Tosh relaxing backstage after a concert at O’Keefe Centre in 1981 which was taken by Liverpool.

Between 1979 to 1981, Liverpool’s presence was ubiquitous as she covered both local and international artists and performers for Contrast. Liverpool was very aware of her status as the only black female photojournalist and photo editor. She would often gain rare backstage access, and capture candid and familial moments of visiting musicians.

Ears, Eyes, Voice: Black Canadian Photojournalists 1970s–1990s takes the motto of Contrast newspaper as its inspiration. The exhibition situates Toronto’s multidimensional black experience by using photography as a powerful weapon.

Liverpool mentions why people should come to see the exhibit.

“It’s a blast from the past. The thing is the issues are still present so it’s still very much relevant. Come out and see,” said Liverpool.

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communities to inspire, enlighten and educate through the arts.

Director and Co-Founder of BAND, Karen Carter, traveled around the world meeting black photographers from the UK, London and Ghana. She wanted to showcase the work of black photojournalists in Toronto too.

“We wanted to show the Canadian position within that context, looking at the international and so the research that Dr. Julie Crooks did led us to these five photojournalists who were shooting and documenting black community life both at local newspapers. As you saw, Contrast, Share, and then in mainstream newspapers like the Toronto star and Globe and Mail,” said Carter.

The collective archive of black photojournalists reveals a comprehensive visual record. They focused on politicians, community members, activists, and protesters, as well as entertainers and athletes. They tell a remarkable range of stories and histories about black lives and experiences from that time.

Dr. Crooks contacted Al Peabody to help with the introduction to the other photographers. She says that all the photos convey an important message.

“We’ve always been here, and that these photographers document a specific moment in Canadian history about black communities, their struggles and celebrations,” said Dr. Crooks.

Photos from Miss Black Ontario were also included in the exhibit.

“Miss Black Ontario was a way to encourage black women who were not involved in the mainstream pageant system. It was a way to recognize their own. I know it was very controversial because it’s still about the objectification of women based on how they look and body size. I think it was a way of recognizing black women, some for their talents and aspirations,” said Dr. Crooks.

The curator pays homage to plat-

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LOCAL NEWS

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Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Photo: Martinique Tourist Board

French Caribbean Sensations ignites Toronto SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

When we think about vacationing in the Caribbean, there are some common destinations that often come to mind: Jamaican, Bahamas, Bermuda, Turks & Caicos Islands.

Now there is no doubt. These are beautiful islands. Today, allow us to present to you two hidden treasures that are not as commercialized as other Caribbean destination: Guadeloupe and Martinique.

On February 11th, 2020, the travel community was whisked away for a night of food, fun, and fantasy at the French Caribbean Sensations, hosted by the Guadeloupe Islands Tourist Board, and the Martinique Tourism Authority.

The prestigious event was held at Hotel X Toronto, located at 111 Princes Boulevard.

Imagine if you can the experience of having two different Caribbean fantasies in one room. The Guadeloupe team, and the Martinique team partnered with their suppliers: Club Med, Air Canada, Air Canada Vacations, and cruise liners to provide exciting information about the islands growing popularity.

It was nice to see the CEO of the Martinique Tourism Authority, Francois Baltus Languedoc, who had travelled all the way from Martinique to meet the tourism community here in Toronto.

“The reason that we have organized such an event is to acknowledge that Toronto is a priority for us. I have a dream. I hope that maybe in one or two years maximum, we can have a direct flight from Toronto to Fort-de-France.

Right now, Toronto is our second market in Canada.”

Martinique is celebrating their 10-year anniversary of Air Canada’s direct flight from Montreal to Fort-de-France next week.

“Canada is one of our biggest markets. We’ve been in Quebec for a long time – we are celebrating our 10year anniversary next week of a direct flight with Air Canada from Montreal to Fort-de-France.”

Martinique is a beautiful island

located in the Lesser Antilles of the West Indies. In 2019, they welcomed more than 20,000 Canadians, up 45% from 2018.

Amazing news is that a growing number of travellers (20%) are coming from Toronto.

Martinique is everything that you can imagine in a destination: beautiful beaches, tall palm trees, a plethora of fragrant fauna. Martinique has become a thriving art scene, with incredible architecture, delectable dishes (which all guests were able to enjoy that night), and some of the best rum in the world.

Guadeloupe has begun to gain some popularity with seasoned travellers. Last year, the island welcomed more than two million passengers, up 2% over 2018. In the year 2020, Guadeloupe is ready to show the world just how special they are. After watching a video showing all the blues that there are to see in Guadeloupe, Patricia Azor (Director of Tourism/ Islands of Guadeloupe), highlighted their direction

“Right now we have 29,000 passengers from Montreal to Guadeloupe, but we want to see a 20% increase within the next year. Industry events like this one will help us reach that goal.”

Both islands were represented beautifully, both visual, and verbally.

Déborah Coffre (Representative of the Tourism Authority of the Islands of Guadeloupe), and Muriel Wiltord, Director (Americas of the Martinique Promotion Bureau) shared cultural greetings, stimulating stories, and the many reasons why Canadians should visit the sister islands in 2020.

At the end of the formal presentations, all guests were treated to a buffet filled with tastes from the islands. It became an incredible networking experience, and it looked like everyone had come prepared to share, to talk, and to listen. The teams had done it. They had created the perfect setting that led to tremendous communication opportunities, which allowed for relationship building.

From unique experiences like sleeping in a tree house, to camping out in an air-conditioned bubble space, Martinique and Guadeloupe are now offering a variety of: accommodations, inclusive hotel offers, and vacation packages that will suit any traveller’s budget and tastes.

You can learn more about these beautiful islands by visiting Guadeloupe at guadeloupe-islands.com, and Martinique at us.martinique.org.

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LOCAL NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Letting his shots tell the story; a photo exhibition tour with photography legend Ian Grant SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

He started thirty years ago. He got out of it because he was spending a whole lot of money on his craft. He stopped for about fifteen years, and then he started up again about five years ago seriously. “I said to myself, you know what? I am going to give it a go. I think I made the right decision.

People really like my work. They are buying my work. It’s only now that I am beginning to see returns.” I thought about what this astounding artist had just said. Imagine!

This generation wants things to happen right away. If it doesn’t, they just move on to something else.

On Thursday, February 6th, 2020, The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited to come to the opening of a Photo Exhibit of Images at The Consulate General

of Grenada, located at 90 Eglinton Avenue East, Suite 605. The famed photographer Ian Grant had reached out to me about an art exhibit that was held in Georgetown last year. I was so blown away by his work. I knew I wanted to see more.

When I arrived at the Consulate General office, the first thing I smelled is the food. As I walked into the office, I saw people bustling about. The energy in the room was high, and everyone seemed to be in a great mood. I looked around trying to locate Ian, and a friendly soul directed me towards him.

He was in a deep exchange when I came into the room, but as soon as he saw me, he gave me a big smile. “Welcome Simone!” After a few moments of formal introduction, he took me on a tour of the exhibit, and shared with me the history of some of the pictures, and we openly discussed his love of photography.

“I walk around, and sometimes a person with the average eye will say, ‘Ian take this, but it doesn’t mean anything to me. I have to be in that moment. I have to feel it. None of my shots are timed. It is what it is. I think it is why other photographers appreciate my work.” Sometime his work seems unreal, even though he is the

one who took it.

Ian has a remarkable eye. His work has received international recognition.

Some of his pieces have won awards in international photography competitions.

He won second prize in 2000 for “Beach Blaster” at the International Caribbean Beat Photo Competition.

“I don’t set up any of my shots. I let them tell the story. Everyone has a different opinion of what they see, and it is interesting to hear some of the stories they come up with. When I am working with a person, I ask their permission. Then I tell them to go and do their thing. I don’t do posed pictures. The pictures come out better that way.”

We had fun walking through the gallery so beautifully set up by the Consulate. He brought me to this one photo, and a reaction was ensued. “This woman looks miserable,” I said laughing. “Oh, she was,” Ian replied. “I had to buy her the coke in the picture. Pay her extra money. Yeah! She was so miserable. She wanted to pose for me, and I said no. I went up the hill, came back down thirty minutes later. I finally caught the shot.”

Due to the fact that his exhibit is

at the Grenadian Consulate General Office, many of the photos are pictures from the island. You can tell that they do mean something to him, because he speaks with nostalgic tones. They seem to bring him back to another time.

The tour stimulated the creative gene inside of me. I don’t know if it was the colours, the great lighting, the capture, the composition, the contrasts, the incredible juxtaposition, his use of depth of field, or his creativity. Photographers and art lovers, this exhibit is for you.

The date of the exhibit has been extended to Saturday, March 7th, 2020.

Viewing is as follows: • • •

Monday to Friday 9:30 am to 5:00 pm Saturday, February 29th, 2020 11:00 am – 5:00 pm Saturday, March 7th, 2020 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

For more information, or if you are interested in setting up a tour, please call 416-595-1343

The Elevate Talks Podcast: a series sharing inspiration CHRISTINA GWIRA christina@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Last summer, I had the pleasure of attending Elevate, courtesy of Toronto Caribbean Newspaper. It was an intense conference, having multiple stages in multiple locations across the Downtown Core; over 20,000 attendees from across the world; more than 300 speakers, including the Michelle Obama and much much more. I stayed my rump, firmly planted at the New Media stage, hearing the likes of Samantha Barry of GLAMOUR, Ariel Garten of Muse and many other speakers and innovators within the space. Overall, it was a great time. Earlier this month, they launched the Elevate Talks Podcast, a series that high-

lights select talks from the 2019 festival.

This was perfect for me, as I didn’t attend any of the other stages (I’ll be sure to take full advantage of my all-access pass this year!) and as such, it felt like I was right back at the festival.

The series currently has three episodes featuring the talks of three of the speakers from last year’s event. The first episode presents Guy Kawasaki’s talk on his top ten life lessons. He spoke about everything from his beliefs about nepotism (hint: it’s good); his trajectory from Hawaii to Stanford University, as well as his lessons working alongside Steve Jobs and becoming a part of Canva, Porsche and Mercedes Benz. I enjoyed listening to his talk as I was getting ready to head out for my Saturday errands. When I came back home – and after a lengthy Saturday nap – I tucked into episode two, which featured Jodi Kovitz of #Movethedial and Samantha Barry of GLAMOUR. Now, I’m not going to lie to you, I was weary of listening to Jodi; many of my friends and associates have been a part of #Movethedial events, and had some choice words to say about the organization, how-

ever, I wanted to give her the benefit of the doubt, and hear about her work through her own words.

When I attended Elevate last year, I was extremely happy to learn about the work that Samantha is doing at GLAMOUR. Her talk was one of my favourite ones of the entire festival, and I was very interested to hear her talk about the history of the organization, as well as the new types of content that they were bringing to the forefront, changing the face of this 80+ year old organization. For example: they started the “She Makes Money Moves” podcast, to bring to light the relationship between women and their money. In addition, they have started talking about topics and taboo subjects that are currently being faced by the millennial woman such as fertility, the changing workplace, and pet custody… yes, determining who gets your pet in the divorce.

The third episode was a chat with the Raptor’s Masai Ujiri. Not going to lie, this was the first time that I have heard him speak. It was like listening to an uncle talk about leadership, delegation, and tilapia.

On leadership, Masai noted that, “you’re not going to be all the time, [you’re not going to know] what is going on when you’re not there”, when speaking about finding and trusting people to help you do the work when it comes to managing a winning team like the Raptors.

The most recent episode featured a past Toronto Caribbean Newspaper cover start, Brampton’s very own Director X. The panel discussed the importance of keeping your brand relevant with the managing director of Twitter Canada, DJ Jillionaire and Paul, yup, Paul (I’m not sure why the podcast title didn’t include his full name, but we’ll just go with the moniker here :D). All in all, I would highly encourage you to listen to the podcast. Being able to tune into the festival after it took place really helped me as a former attendee become intune with the lessons and messages that I had heard and learned that day. As someone who may not have had the opportunity to visit the festival, I would highly advise following the podcast on your station of choice - mine is Spotify - and learning something new today.

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LOCAL NEWS

PAGE 11

Strike-day payments to parents cause public backlash against government PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

As the teachers’ union continue their strike actions against the provincial government, many people are wondering why the government is offering strike day payments.

Currently, all the public and catholic teachers’ unions are involved in strike actions. OSSTF, ETFO, OECTA and FETO are all involved. ETFO which represents approximately 83,000 teachers conducted their first province-wide walkout on Thursday, February 6th. It will be fol-

lowed up with two strike days per week, which will impact all the public boards in Ontario. OECTA which represents approximately 45,000 members, conducted a daylong strike on Tuesday, February 4th and intend to announce additional job actions. The government realized that many parents have been inconvenienced by these strikes and have offered strike-day payments to them.

According to the Thursday, February 6th edition of the Toronto Star, the PC-led governments made an offer to parents. They will compensate parents between $25.00 and $60.00 per child based on their age, for each day that a school or a school-based children’s centre is shut due to the strike actions.

According to ETFO in a statement to the Star, “ETFO has called this money a transparent attempt to bribe the public to support the government and cover up the fact that it is making massive cuts

to public education.” The union is convinced that the government is trying to sway public opinion against it to detract from the massive cuts and reductions in the public education system.

According to the Toronto Star, as of Tuesday, February 5th, the government has received applications for 342,856 children, which is about 25% of the 145 million who are eligible in Ontario. The Star quotes Jessica Lysons - who is part of the organization Ontario Parent Action Network - as stating, “A small, temporary help on child-care costs is not going to distract from the issue that is government is gutting public education.”

Many parents are not taking the bait from the government and they are aware of the underlying issues. The Ford government indicated that it was willing to set aside up to $48 million per day to help parents who are affected by the labour disruption, to defray child-care costs

(January 16th edition of the Toronto Star).

According to the Minister of Education, Stephen Leece, “We recognize the impact of union escalations on families is real, and unions expect hard-working families to bear the costs of their cyclical labour action.” In order to receive the strike-day payments, no receipts are required from the parents. It is retroactive to any previous work stoppage day. The only thing that parents have to do is register online.

As of Wednesday, January 15th, approximately 12,000 parents had done so.

According to the February 6th edition of the Toronto Star, many parents who had applied for the strike-pay payments received far more than they imagined in an overpayment for school closures that had not even occurred as yet.

The Ministry of Education blamed it on a glitch stating, “We will continue to review our systems to ensure all parents receive support during this period of disruption.”

For the love of basketball; Black History Classic Basketball Showcase SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

“Whenever it comes to anything that has to do with the youth, I think it’s very important to have support. So many of our young people don’t have the support of us adults or anyone they could look up to. It’s nice to see them doing something positive.” ~ Michelle Golding (Owner, Hair Lounge on the Shore) Everywhere they look, our children, and teenagers are faced with significant social pressure. They are confronted with the option of engaging in criminal activities, social media temptations, and drugs.

Research continues to show that this problem has been found to be most severe in low-income neighbourhoods (U.S. Department of Justice). Unfortunately, sometimes children living in these neighbourhoods are left unsupervised and inactive for several hours after school ends.

Thankfully, there are members of

the community who remain actively engaged in the community and move with purpose. One such person is Curt McClean.

Curt is the founder of CM Sports Tours. He specializes in basketball team tours, camps and tournaments in Toronto, and the Caribbean. Seven years ago, Curt acknowledged that there was more that he could do in the community, especially when it pertained to young people. He recognized the power of sports. On Sunday, February 9th, 2020, Curt hosted his seventh Black History Month Classic Basketball Showcase.

“Basically, there’s nothing really in Toronto or Ontario in our area (Halton Region) that pertains to black history as a basketball tournament. So, seven years ago, I figured let’s give back and celebrate black history doing something that we love. Basketball is something that everybody loves. I started the annual basketball tournament, and it’s grown from 8 teams to 24 teams today.”

News of the tournament has spread, and because of this, the tournament has grown.

“This year, we have two teams from Ottawa, two teams from London, and teams from Hamilton, Markham and Newmarket. We added a female team this year. It was requested by a lot of coaches

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that want to be involved with the black history tournament. We had the Halton Regional Police play yesterday against one of our teams. Today, we have the Peel Regional Police playing another team today.”

“We have 24 teams from all around Ontario. There will be MVP for the Top Female Team, Top Junior Team and Top Senior Team. The age group ranges from 14-19 years old.”

Curt garnered a lot of support from partners in the community. Some of his sponsors included: London Basketball Authority, Motion Marksman, Thornlea Thunder, Blyth Academy Basketball, GTA Prep, DunTalk, BarnBubner, Universal Hoops, and even the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper got involved.

We had an opportunity to check in with some of the sponsors and talk to them about why they decided to get involved. The amazing personality known as Michelle Golding, Owner of Hair Lounge on the Shore, expressed the need for more support from the community.

“There are a lot of young people who have so much talent, but they don’t have the support from their parents and their community to get them into basketball. It needs to be a community effort – not just effort from the parents.”

We also had a chance to catch up

our stomachs with some healthy treats provided to us by the T- Fitness and Nutrition team. We ended up chit-chatting with Maria Naimouchina and Amar Saron who are the Nutrition Advisors at T- Fitness. Amar opened up on how difficult it was for him as a young man growing up in Scarborough, and why he is so determined to do something that was not available to him.

“There are a lot of young men and women that are looking to go into business for themselves and they don’t know what to do. Sometimes a former athlete becomes injured, and their school or team discards them. We take them, we nurture them, and we turn them into businessmen and women.

We also work with young men and women that have a difficult time getting corporate jobs. We teach them how to start their own businesses and mentor them through the process. They can come to us and we can change their lives if they want to change their lives. That’s what makes us who we are.”

Curt has big plans for the future.

He has set his sights high. “Next year, we’ll probably do something bigger. We’ll definitely need more than one location and I am hoping to have 34+ teams next year.”

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LOCAL NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Black History Month Matters: highlighting the resilience and resistance of blacks in Canada PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The annual celebration of Black History Month in Canada has taken on additional significance in this the first year of the new decade.

The evolution of what began as Negro History Week in America, converted to Black History Month in February 1926. This is all due to the work of African-American scholar Dr. Carter G. Woodson who is now celebrated all over the world. Dr. Carter’s goals were to increase consciousness and further understanding of the contributions of African-American in schools curricula.

Thanks to the work of former Liberal MP Jean Augustine (the first AfricanCanadian female woman elected to Parliament in 1993); Canada has been celebrating Black History Month officially since 1995.

Thirty years later, there is so much to celebrate when it comes to black presence in Canada. The United Nations proclaimed the International Decade for People of African Descent from 2015 to 2024. The City of Toronto recognizes it as “An opportunity to recognize the past and present contributions that African-Canadians make to the life of Toronto in such areas as: education, medicine, art, culture, public service, economic development, politics and human rights. Every aspect of Canadian lives has been impacted by the black presence.”

As we look back, we acknowledge, educate and learn about the past. There is much that we can build on as we look forward to the next decade with hope, vision, faith and confidence. History is past, present and future. The struggles, challenges and contributions of African-Canadians is the

basis by which all races, cultures, classes, sexualities and diversities can unite together.

The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) has chosen the theme “UBUNTU” (I am because we are). This word is of South African derivation from the Zulu community, and according to the TDSB news release on January 31st, “The philosophy of UBUNTU realizes that everything is interconnected. Everything that I do has an effect on you and your well-being, and everything that you do has an effect on me and my wellbeing.” It is so fitting that the commonality of our humanness is emphasized as it shows that we are part of the human family, no matter our religion, culture, race or ethnicity.

The many challenges and struggles that people of African descent have overcome in the past are a reflection of the indomitable spirit, invincible hope and incredible dreams that they possess. Yet, there are still so many ongoing challenges, issues and concerns that need to be addressed in

2020. The work of Black Lives Matter-Toronto and other community grass-root organizations has brought forward issues of: antiblack racism, marginalization, oppression, discrimination and systematic racism.

The underachievement and under performance of black students in the public education system, criminalization of black youths, social inequities, poverty, youth violence and mental health challenges are still real issues. There are those who have committed their lives in the fight for social justice, equity, inclusion and understanding to ensure that the African-Canadian community needs are acknowledged.

There is so much that our youth can do to celebrate Black History Month. Toronto Dominion (TD) Bank Group has sponsored the annual Kuumba Festival. There are many organizations that are running events to highlight the power of African-Canadian history, culture, music and arts. Black resilience and resistance are permanent features of the landscape of Canada.

Battling distractions: how employers can combat work distractions JONELL PANTLITZ jonell@carib101.com

TC JR. REPORTER

You are at work, and your cell phone vibrates, so you check it. A notification dings on your computer, so you check your Facebook notifications. Your friend who smokes ask you to go with them on their smoke break. Your colleague stops by your desk to tell you the latest work gossip. Work distractions are an issue with many workers around Canada.

Almost 60% of Canadians reported that they have battled with distractions at work. This result estimates that a total of two hours of productivity is lost each day, according to a new national survey instructed by iQ Offices, the largest Canadian-owned co-working company.

To collect the data for this survey, researchers asked 1,524 Canadians a wide array of questions about productivity in the workplace, and the results showed focus was a problem for employees across Canada. According to the iQ offices of the

1,500+ Canadians, the vast majority (57%) of Canadian adults agree “It’s easy to get distracted in my workplace.” Those under 35 are most distracted – a massive 68% agreed.

The top Canadian productivity drains at work is said to be the following, talk-a-holics. When asked to identify “What challenges my productivity the most,” Canadians said loud talkers and “talk-a-holic” colleagues were the biggest productivity drain at 54%.

Trendy office styles tend to be another factor. Physical workspace issues rank second on the list of productivity drains.

Nearly half of Canadians (49%) blame “noisy recreation areas within the space,” and a “distracting open-concept work environment” on lapses in daily productivity.

Unassigned workspaces appear to be the third biggest productivity challenge for Canadians. Unassigned workspaces are when an employee does not have a permanent desk or office. Almost half of all Canadians (43%) name this as a key complaint.

Of course, there are those timewasting meetings. This dreaded meeting type rounded out Canadians’ top productivity blockers. Men and women had different viewpoints on this distraction. 38% of the men queried, in comparison to 45% of women found these meetings a major distraction in their day.

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When asked to sum up the impact of daily productivity drains on their performance, 73% of Canadians estimated they could save up to two hours a day if they worked in an office that was designed to minimize distraction.

More than one-third (35%) reported they could boost productivity by two hours each day as a result of working in a productivity-enhancing office environment. Another 38% of those surveyed estimated they could get the usual seven hours of work completed in six. 39% of the younger adults surveyed under the age of 35 years, estimated they could potentially boost productivity by two hours a day.

This resulted in almost two-thirds of respondents (64%) said they would even accept a lower salary if it meant working in a “conveniently located beautiful workspace designed for productivity and employee satisfaction.”

This seems like a good time to ask this question. Would you be willing to sacrifice your pay for a conveniently located beautiful workspace designed for productivity?

According to Kane Willmott “Canadians overwhelmingly highlight design, physical environment productivity challenges like nomad seating arrangements, noise and distracting open concept design, ahead of other workload-related challeng-

es, such as excessive email (17%) or unexpected extra work (19%).”

“We’re creatures of habit. We want to have a predictable work environment,” he said. “That being said, we don’t want to just sit at a desk for eight hours a day either.

We need to create areas to rejuvenate.”

In Willmott’s opinion, Canadian employees are looking for an office that allows them to have their own space while still offering flexibility for changes of scenery throughout the day.

Below are two ways to improve productivity in the workplace: Ownership of the space “Productivity will improve if employees take ownership of their work and their workspace,” said Baba Vishwanath, Professor of Human Resources and Management at McMaster University.

Eliminate distraction For many employers, changing a whole workspace can be hectic and expensive, but Willmott says, “There are still some easy ways to make a workplace more productive in the short term.”

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Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Heartbeat of the World; Jamaica heats up Scotiabank Arena their blue and white attire. Here am I in an African inspired skirt and bustier, click clacking in my killer red heels. I realized quickly that I probably choose the wrong colours. The Maple Leafs were playing the Arizona Coyotes, who happen to have a burgundy red in their team logo.

You see; this is what happens when you don’t do your research.

When I arrived at the Jamaica Gondala Suite on the 6th floor, I looked around to see whom I could recognize.

The first person I saw was Angella Bennett, who happens to be the Regional Director of Tourism for Canada. As usual, Angella greeted me with such warmth.

She has a way of making you feel at home, even in situations that may not be the norm for you. We went right into a discussion about the direction for Jamaica this year, and exactly why they decided to put on this event.

“Simone, our push this year is to establish Jamaica as the Heartbeat of the world. This means that at times we must reach out of our comfort zones.

Staying in your comfort zone is not going to bring you results. Our sponsors are made up of different cultural backgrounds, have different ideologies, and enjoy different things. Having this event connects with a demographic who may have heard of Jamaica, always wanted to go to Jamaica, but have never done so. We want to show the global community why Jamaica is the heartbeat of the

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

“What am I doing here?� I looked around at the signs. Gate One, Gate Two; “Where the hell am I going?� Thank God for these two kind gentlemen who must have seen how lost I looked. “Can we help with something miss?� “Yes, can you direct me to Gate One please.� “Go right through this door. You are in the right place.� I thanked them and proceeded to the gate.

I couldn’t conceal my excitement. On Tuesday, February 11th, 2020, Mr. Donnie Dawson (Deputy Directory of Tourism, Jamaica) invited Toronto Caribbean Newspaper to join the Jamaica Tourist Board and their sponsors for Jamaica Night at the Hockey Rink. It was a Tuesday night, and my schedule was packed, but I didn’t want to miss this event. I had some questions that I knew could only be answered if I went.

The excitement in the air could not be denied. Hockey fans have to be the most boisterous of all sports fans.

There were people yelling, decked out in

world, and the only way to do so is to be everywhere. Jamaica must establish omnipresence. This is my responsibility, so here we are.�

I listened intently to Angella. I have always been impressed with her ability to adjust to her circumstances.

Listening to her, you would never know that it has not been a year since she has been here, and she was learning the Canadian culture and how to attract their interest.

As I looked around the room, I saw staple figures in the Jamaican community who had turned out to support the Jamaican Tourist Board: Consulate General for Jamaica Toronto, Lloyd Wilks was in attendance, along with Sports Reporter Roger Shaw from G98.7. I had a chance to chitchat with them, and they were just excited about the great things that are happening in Jamaica. There is reason for this.

2020 is gearing up to be a year of excitement, and Jamaicans living in the diaspora have a lot to be proud of. Below is a list of highlighted events happening on the island. Feel the rush; learn more by visiting visitjamaica.com.

Jamaica Rum Festival Experience rum tastings, rum and food, and a cacophony of Jamaican craftsmanship from February 29th – March 1st.

Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee Festival Music is the backdrop of a three-day experience of Jamaican food, coffee and culture in the hills of the world-renowned Blue Mountain. Satisfy your taste buds from March 21st – March 24th, 2020.

Jamaica Frenzy This one is for the House Lovers. Get ready for a five night, six-day all-inclusive, House Music Vacation, Jamaica Frenzy specializes in House Music, with all-inclusive accommodation packages.

Of course, expect nothing but the best in House Music, meant to stimulate all senses. Become part of the experience from March 31st – April 5th, 2020.

The Cooler Weekend Following closely after Carnival in Jamaica is a chance to attend five fantastic parties in five consecutive days. Come for the Cancun Beach Jam, The Festival of Floats, Yush, Day Dreams and Igloo.

This fantastic week of fun begins April 10th and ends April 13th.

Jamaica Food & Drink Festival Six days of diverse, taste bud tantalizing, culinary mastery, starting October 24th, 2020 – November 1st, 2020.

There is no way for me to go through all the events, so lean in, feel the pulsating beat and follow your heart to Jamaica

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The survey revealed that the leading financial reason cited for ending a relationship was hidden debt, which came in at 71%. This was followed by poor money management or bad spending habits at 48%. In the number three spot was income (yours or your partner’s) at 13%.

In this poll, the gender divide played a huge role. Females are much more likely than males to end a relationship over financial issues. 76% have ended or would end a relationship over a lack of financial honesty compared to 65% of men. Similarly, 52% of women have ended, or would end their romance due to poor money management and poor spending habits compared to 44% of men.

Debt can create ill-feelings between couples, in terms of how debt

MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

“Canadians are determined not to let anything get in their way of celebrating Valentine’s Day.� ~ Adriana Molina (Communications Manager for Credit Canada) Have you ever wondered why the divorce rate is so high? Why some relationships don’t last even though these couples are sexually faithful? Well, according to a new survey from Credit Canada the answer could be as simple as not telling the truth to your spouse about your financial situation.

The 2020 Dysfunctional Debt Survey – an Angus Reid poll of 1,552 RY 10TH

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makes people think and feel. The numbers were higher in this survey than in a similar, but not identical survey done by Credit Canada in 2018. • Specifically, 46% of respondents find that debt makes them feel frustrated (vs 18% in 2018) • 39% find that debt makes them feel depressed (vs 12% in 2018) • 31% find that debt makes them feel embarrassed/ashamed (vs 8% in 2018) According to Credit Canada, there are eight very helpful tips on how to break up with debt. • Step # 1: Find out exactly what you owe • Step # 2: Determine your monthly income and expenses • Step # 3: Adjust your spending plan or budget • Step # 4: Consider different repayment strategies • Step # 5: Use any extra funds to pay off debt • Step # 6: Avoid new debt • Step # 7: Consider a low-interest

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According to a report from Global News, a top Canadian bank survey suggested that Canadian spouses will sooner forgive a cheating partner than to overlook money issues. A poll by the Bank of Montreal (TSX: BMO), showed 68% said that money problems would be the top reasons to get divorced followed by cheating at 60%, and family feud coming in at 30%.

A study conducted by Ipsos polls Canada revealed that only 49% of Canadians ‘always tell the truth’ when it comes to discussing their finances with others, including their partner/spouse.

Credit Canada has a piece of advice for folks who are in this kind of marriage, there is no point in prolonging a bad financial relationship. Once you have gotten out of this unhealthy relationship with debt, don’t repeat the old habits you once had, and you will be able to live happily ever after.

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LOCAL NEWS

PAGE 16

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Toronto libraries celebrate Black History Month SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

“Library is the temple of learning, and learning has liberated more people than all the wars in human history. A black person who wants to be liberated first needs to get learning. If he does, it will make him a formidable force against a would-be oppressor.” ~ Carl Rowa If you can imagine, there once was a time that the assumption was that black people just weren’t interested in literacy or having an education. An asinine thought also existed that black people didn’t have the same capacity as white people to learn.

These thoughts led to a great deal of segregation in North America. To learn more about this, I implore you to read the book, “The Desegregation of Public Libraries in the Jim Crow South: Civil Rights and Local Activism,” by Shirley and Wayne Wiegand.

The book goes into great detail about the hardships that blacks faced when it came to utilizing community spaces as learning spaces.

I bring this up only to recognize the advances that we have made as Africans living in the diaspora. A library is now considered a third place, meaning it is a place that

is neither one’s home (considered first place), nor workspace (considered second place). It is a place that you can go to in a community and help yourself to a plethora of knowledge.

There are no segregated rooms; actually, now a library is a cornucopia of people from all ages, genders, religions, and cultures.

The library is now seen as a contributor to the social well-being of the community. It provides counselling for students, and programs and assistance for people of all ages. With it being Black History Month, there is an increase in activities that are being offered, and with the current stand off between teachers and the government, we as a community must find ways in which to supplement our student’s education.

Below we have provided a sample list of activities that are happening at Toronto Public Libraries. I implore parents to visit their cities library websites and see what is being offered for the community. We are pleased to say that this year, there seems to be a larger variety of programs being offered, so why not take advantage Fresh Fadez: Haircutting Workshop Tuesday February 18th, 2020 3:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

35 Fairview Mall Drive, Toronto, ON M2J 4S4 Phone: 416-395-5750 Kevin Bisram is setting up his barbershop in the Youth Hub! Students can come observe haircutting fundamentals while discussing topics of self-esteem and personal image. A young person could explore haircutting as a possible career path. Drop-ins are welcome.

No registration required. This workshop is for

ages 13-19.

Before the 6ix: The 20/20 Mixtape - Beats from Toronto’s Deep Hip-Hop History Wednesday, February 19th, 2020 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Toronto Reference Library 789 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M4W 2G8 Phone: 416-395-5577 Hinton Learning Theatre This one is for the hip-hop heads. Come sit in on a discussion with: Jully Black, Kid Kut, Carey Riley, and Solitair about Toronto’s deep hip-hop history. Music journalist and documentary producer Del Cowie, in association with accomplished Toronto DJ Agile, will host a conversation looking back at the 20th anniversary of Toronto’s hip-hop music released in the year 2000.

History On Film Series - Black History - The Best Of Enemies (2019) Thursday, February 20th, 2020 5:45 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Brentwood Library 36 Brentwood Road North, Toronto, ON M8X 2B5 Phone: 416-394-5240 The Best Of Enemies. A timely drama that centres on an unlikely relationship between Ann Atwater, an outspoken civil rights activist, and C.P. Ellis, a local Ku Klux Klan leader who reluctantly co-chaired a community summit, battling over the desegregation of schools in Durham, North Carolina during the racially-charged summer of 1971. The incredible events that unfolded changed Durham

and the lives of Atwater and Ellis forever.

2019 Movie - 133 minutes - Rated PG-13. Drop-In Movie. Based on the book The Best of Enemies: Race and Redemption in the New South by Osha Gray Davidson Paint Night: Celebrating Black Excellence Saturday February 22nd, 2020 | 2:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m.

York Woods Library 1785 Finch Avenue West, Toronto, ON M3N 1M6 Paint a Toronto themed masterpiece at the library! Join Toronto-based artist Grace for a one-hour painting workshop celebrating Black artists. This workshop is for ages 8+.

Please call 416-395-0768 to register.

A Positive Narrative of Jamaican/Caribbean History Tuesday, February 25th, 2020 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Barbara Frum Library 20 Covington Road, Toronto, ON M6A 3C1 Phone: 416-395-5440 In honour of Black History Month, Jamaican/ Canadian guitarist, composer, teacher, and Afro-Jamaican oral artist, Maurice Gordon, will touch on the greatness and achievements of Jamaica, its people, its music and its history.

To learn more about what is happening this Black History Month at your local libraries, visit your cities library website. Ontario. Let’s take back control of our student’s education.

Jamaica National Money Services opens office in Brampton

BY JANIECE CAMPBELL TC JUNIOR REPORTER On Friday, February 7th, 2020 Jamaica National Money Services opened its third location in the GTA. With a new site in a new city, JN Money offers all the services to help customers connect to home while also preventing extensive travel distances. As the Jamaican community continues to grow exponentially – with upwards of nearly 50,000 local residents – it only made sense to have its latest office centrally located in Bramp-

ton, according to regional manager, Claude Thompson.

JN Money Services is a remittance company that facilitates transfers to bank accounts, allows for mobile credit top-ups, and presents customers with the opportunity to pay bills and property taxes in Jamaica.

Claude Thompson, who manages the entire operation for Canada including other locations in Toronto and Scarborough, has nothing but high expectations for the Brampton office. “We are expecting to do extremely well. Since opening, we’ve received

many questions and transactions thus far which is a clear indication that the move was correct,” Thompson says.

As we enter a digital era, Thompson admits that dynamics are changing within how money is transferred. In order to keep up with the market of new-age mobile payment apps, Thompson proudly speaks of a card that “no one else has,” he claims.

The JN Money Card – a unique and innovative option that gets rid of the typical 3-5 business day wait and instead authorizes for funds to be applied almost instantaneous-

ly, where recipients could then use it as a debit card or to withdraw money from participating ATMs in Jamaica. “It eliminates long lines and people have the flexibility to pick up the money anytime, anywhere,” Thompson says.

With an announcement that a JN Money app is coming soon to further advance its digital services, Thompson reminds customers: “JN Money is not just a money transfer company – we’re able to do much more than the average. We have hopes of changing the market in terms of how transfers are sent.”

I have the opportunity, the position, the platform and the voice Discussion on Black History with Constable Peter Grant SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Long hours. Overtime. Understaffing. Concerns about mental health and wellness. Lacking resources.

As a journalist and storyteller, I am exposed to different aspects of the community that has broadened my cultural lens. It is one thing to think you know something. The power is in actually knowing.

As of recent, current reporting assignments have given me the opportunity to speak with Police Officers of African descent. I will be honest; I have always had questions for Afro-Caribbean Police Officers, the number one being, “Why would you choose to do this out of all professions?”

The answers vary, but the senti-

ments of all the officers I have spoken to are surprisingly similar. To make an impact!

I really see the impact being a black Peel Police Officer has in the community. I am granted opportunities to learn the cultures of the communities that I go in.

Peter Grant

I was at the Jr & Sr Black History Classic Basketball Showcase, and the organizer of the event Curt McClean asked me if I wanted to speak with Deputy Peter Grant. He was there with other officers who were playing an exhibition game at the basketball showcase. I had heard about Deputy Grant. His dedication to his work, and the community has accelerated him, through the ranks expeditiously.

As the interview began, I could see the intensity, passion and pride that Constable Grant felt about being an Afro-Caribbean man, and a Police Officer.

He began his career as a Prison Escort Officer in 2002 and was promoted to the role of Supervisor at the Prison Escort Bureau in 2011. He proudly became a Police Officer in 2016, and now retains the position of Constable. In June 2013, he was awarded the Civilian Supervisor C.A.R.E.S Award, and in May 2017 the L.W. Farrow Award for personifying en-

thusiasm, dedication and excellence in Police Training.

One aspect of Constable Grant that cannot be denied is his love for his community, and he expressed this in our discussion.

“The Peel Regional Police basketball team has been engaging the community for my entire career. These are opportunities to engage with members of the community, in particular, young people, outside of the normal policing.

Quite often, when we engage with the community (particularly the black community), it’s in a setting that is not really conducive to real, meaningful engagement. It’s either around negative circumstances, or circumstances that stretch it in such a way that you don’t have time to get to know or engage with the people you are policing in a positive way.

Canadian history is black history.

We’ve been here before Canada was Canada.

We’ve been here building Canada, not simply as in the slave narrative but as free people – as people critical to the development of society, the community and the country.

Because I have the opportunity, the position, the platform and the voice, it’s go-

ing to come down on me to ensure that I articulate my black history is Canadian history.

Today, the issue at hand is that we have an opportunity here to engage with our young people and parts of our community in a positive setting.

Sports are a really important part of my life, and most of the other officers here, they see this as an opportunity to engage with young people; to show that we’re no different than you are. In fact, in practically all of our cases, we were young men and women playing basketball at one point in a competitive setting.”

Our interview ended on a powerful note. I enjoyed taking in a mini history lesson, and it opened my eyes to the fact that more quality interactions need to occur between the Afro-Caribbean communities here in Canada, and the men and women in blue that look just like us.

“It’s inspirational to me seeing efforts that have been put forth. It encourages me not to sit back, and to take advantage of the opportunities. I get to be a role model and pave a way for the future generations as well.”

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Wednesday, February 19, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

4 reasons to go electric If you’re in the market for a new car, here are four great reasons to go electric.

and type “zero-emission vehicles” in the search bar.

1. A GREAT DRIVING EXPERIENCE One thing that electric vehicle (EV) owners agree on is that the experience of driving one is enjoyable. In contrast to a traditional car, EVs create a lot less noise.

In addition, many of them have lower centres of gravity, allowing for better handling.

3. LONG TERM SAVINGS Electric vehicles have fewer parts than gas-powered ones. What’s more, the components in EVs are exposed to far fewer stressors. This means that, in the long run, owning an EV allows you to save money on maintenance and repair costs. In addition, you’ll never need to buy gas or oil again.

2. PURCHASE INCENTIVES AND TAX CREDITS While EVs are more expensive than gasoline-powered cars, don’t let this deter you. As part of an effort to drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the Canadian government offers purchase and lease incentives worth up to $5,000 for fully electric models. They also offer a tax write-off. For more information, visit Transport Canada’s website at tc.gc.ca

4. LOWER EMISSIONS One of the biggest reasons to go electric is that it will help protect the environment. Indeed, highway transportation accounts for about a fifth of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions. By switching to an EV, you’ll dramatically reduce your carbon footprint and positively impact the planet.

PAGE 19

How to reduce waste Canadians produce more waste than any other country per capita, generating 31 million tonnes of it per year. Most of this garbage is sent to landfills where it releases methane gas, a byproduct that’s over 20 times more potent than carbon dioxide in terms of environmental impact. This is why reducing the amount of waste your household produces is so important. Here are some tips that can help you get started.

HABITS TO ADOPT You can reduce waste at the source by doing the following: • Rent or borrow tools and appliances instead of buying them, especially if you won’t use them often.

• Ban disposable and single-use items like

razors, plastic bags and paper plates.

• Buy food and household items in bulk, or privilege environmentally friendly, biodegradable packaging.

• Renovate “green” by using recycled and refurbished materials.

• Avoid food waste by properly storing ingredients so they last longer, eating your leftovers and freezing any surplus.

• Compost your organic waste. If you live in the city, find out if there’s a dedicated organic waste collection program.

Don’t forget that small acts make a difference. Taking the time to adopt greener habits will pay off in the long run.

To learn more about EVs, or to take one for a test drive, be sure to visit your local dealership.

The ABCs of EVs Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining in popularity, and with good reason. These cars are silent, economical, environmentally friendly and reliable. Here’s how they work.

CHARGING To operate, EVs first need to be plugged into an external power source so the battery can be charged. There are three types of charging stations:

THE BATTERY A fully electric car is powered by a large battery, itself composed of power cells.

It’s also equipped with an electric transmission.

• 120 V (slow) • 240 V (standard) • 400 V (fast)

Depending on the battery’s power, which is measured in kilowatt hours (kWh), a car will have a longer or shorter range. The range refers to the distance it can cover with a single charge. For instance, a car with a 60-kWh battery has a range of about 380 kilometres while a car with a 40-kWh battery has a range of 240 kilometres.

FEATURE

In addition, EVs are equipped with an energy recovery mechanism called regenerative braking, which helps charge the battery while driving. It works when some of the car’s kinetic energy is converted into electricity, which is then stored in the battery.

This saves a lot of battery power, thereby extending the range of the car.

To learn more about EVs, speak to an expert at your local dealership.

How to stop using single-use plastics In Canada, we produce approximately 3 million tonnes of plastic waste each year, 90 per cent of which ends up in landfills, incinerated or dumped in the ocean. Here’s how to dramatically reduce your own plastic waste.

TABLEWARE Avoid using plastic plates and cutlery when hosting parties. Instead, use regular plates and utensils or, if you often host large gatherings, purchase compostable alternatives. Another option is to buy a separate, inexpensive set of tableware just for parties.

It’s also a good idea to keep a set of utensils in your car or purse for when you have to eat on the go.

compostable and biodegradable bamboo toothbrushes.

GROCERY BAGS Some grocery stores will charge you extra for plastic bags, and reusable canvas grocery bags are now widely available and come in a variety of design options. Ideally, choose bags made from recycled materials.

FOOD WRAP Instead of plastic cling wrap, opt for washable alternatives like beeswax wrap or organic cotton. These are much more environmentally friendly and can be reused many times.

TOOTHBRUSHES Dentists recommend changing your toothbrush every three months. This means a family of four will throw out 16 toothbrushes annually. A good solution would be to purchase

SANDWICH BAGS Resealable sandwich bags are a lunchbox staple, but they’re easily replaced with reusable bags such as those made of laminated polyurethane and other textiles.

Visit your local retailers to find these and other products that’ll help you reduce your household waste.

PAGE 20

FEATURE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

the poetic word Vena Amoris (Vein Of Love)

BY GLORIA O’KOYE A love that will cross Life times to reconnect.

A love that will cherish masterpieces instead of focusing on tiny specks.

A love that will respect Even though received from a distance.

A love that can be represented By resilient grass patches, instead of temporary roses.

A spark ignites fierce passion But diminishes as quickly as it starts.

Would cherish a love that is like wildfires That when nourished Will burn everlasting.

Falling in love with the spirit Each moment Heart grows fonder.

Like the ocean parting ways As celebration parades, Embracing the flawless scenery on the horizon.

Promises tingle on the tongue like spring’s nectar, Fulfilling them with actions Overflowing this cup with sage honey.

Each moment spent by Love’s side Is like entering The Fields of Aaru.

The fire disk embraces our skin, drenched in royalty, As we continue to perform our Sacred Crane Dance in the Marshland.

An excellent coffee comes from a perfect blend

PERFECT BLEND BAKERY SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Tucked away at 1971 Weston Rd, in York, Ontario is a delightful experience for those individuals who appreciate delectable ambiance. Located in the heart of Weston, Perfect Blend Bakery has managed to restore an aspect of society that we all speak off in high regard: family and community.

I know I can speak for the entire village of Weston when I say we were all so very happy when Weston got its own espresso bar and coffee shop. It’s a great place for lunch and take-out. The coffees and extended coffees are even better than Starbucks, and the people are friendly and upbeat. The place is gorgeous, and the ambience is perfect. ~ P.J. (Yelp Review, 5 Stars)

It could be a quick coffee before work or lunch; Perfect Blend Bakery offers a unique, and extensive menu that is sure to entice, the most sceptical palate. Their menu includes espressos, cappuccinos, lattes, crepes, omelettes, an exclusive muffin selection, and saving the best for last, an assortment of sinfully delicious desserts.

“I stopped in here and had the special of the day, a cup of coffee and one of their excellent cranberry walnut oatmeal cookies. The service was quick and friendly, and my panini was excellent and very filling.” ~ Y.E (Yelp Reviews, 5 Stars)

The story of Perfect Blend Bakery started like most amazing success stories, as a dream. Last Saturday, I had an opportunity to sit down with Christina Kalamaris, Manager at the Perfect Blend Café. I found out about this place from a friend and decided to visit it last December. I have been a regular since, and I thought it was due time to highlight a place that speaks, lives, eats, and emanates community.

As I waited for my French Vanilla Ginger Tea, and oatmeal (one apple cinnamon with brown sugar, and one berry), Christina and I sat down so I could learn

some more about what makes her café such a perfect blend. “It all started off as my father’s vision,” Christina begins. “My dad moved to Weston Rd. when he was seven years old. My Grandfather actually owned a shop across the street. They came from nothing. My grandfather had to work very hard to take care of his family. The story is that one day he looked at this building and said, ‘One day I am going to own this building.’ As life has it, my grandfather passed, but dad continued to work hard and eventually bought the building.”

“Throughout the years, my dad has seen the good and the bad. He wanted to introduce something to the community to bring it back to where it used to be, so he decided on a café. Dad has a career outside of this, and I have a passion for people and for customer service, so I stepped up to the plate and began to run the café.”

Stopped on our way out of Toronto for coffee. Picked this place because it was close to our Airbnb and was NOT Tim Horton’s. We were pleased with our coffee and the friendly service. Very clean, bright and modern. ~ Maryland Visitor (Trip Advisory)

What caught me about this place was most definitely the customer service.

When the young women who work behind the bar see me, I can see they recognize who I am, and they offer such warm smiles.

It is a feeling that brings me back to this place, and I shared this with Christina.

“We have some amazing staff, and I have been so lucky to find them. Each and everyone of my team have the same passion for customer service. When you come in here, you don’t feel like a number. We personalize our service. It is these things that we know that larger franchises don’t do anymore. We want to give people an experience,” Christina explains.

“A lot of our customers have been with us through this journey. When we first started, we were very busy, then it slowed down. Mati’s opened up. I think that it was good competition to have. We started having different people come in here. People would start coming in to have lunch, sit down to enjoy a latte.”

Nice environment. Staff are nice.

Nice music with Great coffee!!! Highly recommended. ~ S.T (Trip Advisory)

“I see Tim Horton’s has opened up

a block over; has this affected you?” I had always been curious about that. There was about six café’s all in a one-kilometre radius.

“People go to Tim Horton’s because of the brand, not the service. You can tell the difference from when people are just slapping a sandwich together, from when they do it with care,” Christina tells me. “Our goal is to stay connected to our community, our staff. It’s family. That is what it is. Family!

Our team understands certain rules, and the number one rule is that the customer is always first. I don’t really subscribe to the idea of the customer is always right, because they are human. Sometimes they are wrong. I take on each resolution differently.

Let’s say it is our fault. We made your sandwich wrong. That is our fault. I will apologize and we will make another fresh for you. As a team, we will work together to ensure that you leave happy. Sometimes people come in and they have just had a bad day. This does not give you permission to disrespect my staff.”

“So, here is the big question for you Christina,” I queried, “What makes you different from everyone else?”

“Let’s just start with freshness.

Have you had other establishment’s muffins or donuts at certain times in the day?

Hard. Stale. Who wants that? We crack our eggs for every customer. We buy fresh groceries every day. Our coffee is straight from Italy. Here, you get what you are paying for.”

“When we add new items, our entire team comes in and we do tastings. If they can’t recommend it, it does not go on the menu.”

I asked immediately when the next tasting was. Christina laughs, “For you Saturday mornings.” I don’t think she realized how serious I was.

She knows that I love French Vanilla’s, so like an expert, she told me that they had recently introduced it on their menu.

The staff did a tasting for that as well. “The more people, the more taste buds, the higher quality something is going to be,” I thanked Christina for the interview and collected my breakfast. What a great way to start a busy day. Fantastic food. Great dialogue. Amazing experience.

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PAGE 22

FEATURE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

MICHAEL WILLIAMS All hail the godfather of comedy

“Wow! It’s about time that a black person walked into the show. Now, I won’t feel so alone.” ~ Michael Williams There is one man who has played a pivotal role in the development of many comedians who have reached international “household name” status.

Names like Jamie Foxx, Chris Tucker, Sinbad, Chris Rock; Michael Williams provided performance opportunities that before his ingenuity did not exist.

Before there was Def Jam, Comedy Central or Comic View, there was The Comedy Act Theatre. It became the bedrock and mecca of today’s African-American comedy scene.

A man (who I refer too as Elder Williams) understands what it is like to be taken advantage of. For years he worked with organizations, helping them make money, all in the hopes of advancing in these organizations. He became disenchanted when he realized that they had no intention of moving him up, so he walked away and decided it was time to do something for him.

It was that fateful night that he decided he was going to go out to a comedy club. He was not feeling very good about himself at the time, so he decided he would head out and have a good laugh.

As he sat in the comedy club that night, he looked around and realized that he was the only black person in there.

As the night wore on, Elder Williams sat there, and thought, “Man, these people robbed me!” He was halfway through his second beer, and the jokes were not getting any funnier. He wanted to walk out, but he thought, “No! I am going to get my money’s worth. I am going to stay to the end.”

Finally, a brother walked in, and it turned out he was the last act of the night. Elder

Williams was excited until he heard this guys jokes.

This man was not representing at all. If anything, Elder thought he was just making the whole black race look bad. The comic’s final act was to put a green drape over his back like a Baptist Minister.

“Finally,” Elder thought, “This is something I can relate too.” Just like that it came to him.

What if this was all black? What if he could put together a comedy show that hosted black comics and black audiences. This was the genesis of Comedy Act Planet.

In 1985, Michael Williams’s idea about creating an all black comedy space was revolutionary. It had never been done before, and the results were pure magic. With nothing but a hope and a vision, Elder Williams positioned his first club off Leimert Park, in Los Angeles, California’s West Side.

News about the club spread quickly, and soon developed a regular audience of 250 to 400 patrons a night. The concept was so well received, that he was able to open a second club in Oakland, CA, then Atlanta, GA, and finally to Chicago, IL. AfricanAmerican comedians everywhere learned about the incredible opportunity. A chance to express themselves onstage in front of their peers; black comedians jumped at this opportunity.

Comedy Act Planet became the place to be, and black sports stars, movie stars, and singers began to frequent the comedy nights. Any given night you could go there and see the likes of: Magic Johnson, Denzel Washington, Mike Tyson, Spike Lee, or Tisha Campbell-Martin. He had done it. Comedy Act Planet was a hit.

Elder Williams was gifted with one of the finest talents in the industry Robin Harris, who served as the MC for the Los Angeles club. This alone proved to be a game-changer. Harris became a well-

known comedian and gained national recognition with his “BeBe’s Kids,” routines. Elder Williams was deeply saddened at the loss of his friend and partner in 1990, and after that, things began to change.

It was an unfortunate day for Elder when he was forced to shut down his four clubs in 1997. It was following a cancer diagnosis in 1993 that the doctors had told him was a life-ending prognosis.

He fought through it, but shortly after had to begin caring for his critically ill father, and then his mother. He dutifully took care of his parents until their deaths in 2002, and 2006.

In its twelve years of operation, the four Comedy Act Theatre locations introduced to some and presented to others a phenomenal list of world-class comedic talent.

During the early part of his career, Elder Williams stamped his legacy in history through his many achievements.

•

•

•

•

Michael E. Williams was the first to organize and expand an African-American owned comedy club chain in the US with venues in major markets such as Los Angeles, and Oakland, CA, Atlanta, GA, and Chicago, IL. Michael E. Williams spearheaded a black stand-up comedy industry that opened the doors to a multitude of entertainment professionals.

HBO, Showtime, BET, Comedy Central, and Fox owe Michael E. Williams for some of their comedic success. These larger companies were known for coming to the club and scouting the club’s talent.

In excess of 300 comedy-related films featuring present-day African-American comics produced between 1987-present.

• •

More than 33 comedy-related television and cable shows featuring present-day black comics produced between 1987-present.

Michael E. Williams’s efforts: opened industry doors, establishing diverse career opportunities within the industry, and confirmed African-American comedy as financially viable.

On February 4th, 2020, Michael was honoured during a celebration of African-American history at the City Hall in Los Angeles. An honouring that is long overdue. It is sad to know that a lot of our young comedians do not know who Michael E. Williams is.

It is only now that the world is learning about this selfless pioneer.

There is an exhibit resurrected honouring Elder Williams and several of America’s most popular comedians. Rightfully titled, “Stand Up: Art and Politics in Comedy,” this display will remain on display for the entire month of February.

It has been an honour being mentored

by Elder. He is honest, he speaks authentically, and he reminds me that it only takes one person to stand up for what they believe in. Why can’t it be you?

Written by Simone J. Smith Toronto Caribbean News

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- Valery

$760,000

$799,700

POWER SALE

D.E.A.L- Distinction, Elegance, Appeal and Luxury

Fractured price! Here is a 4-level side split with, double car garage, family room with original wood burning fireplace, 2 kitchens, open concept living and dining room, 4 bedrooms and 3 washrooms.

Features LED lights, laminate floors, eat in kitchen and a finish basement. A Rare find.

Here’s a Hot one! Spacious home with an open concept main floor, kitchen with roller blades, family room with a flickering gas fireplace, main floor laundry and a premium lot, long driveway and double car garage. Features 5 bedrooms, 4 washrooms and a modern basement. Extensively upgraded with quartz, granite, dark premium laminates and LED lighting. Smart Buy.

$749,900

$710,000

South Etobicoke (SOLD)

For Young Moderns (SOLD)

A short walk to lake shore. This home is in a neighbourhood with million-dollar homes. Ideal for someone with the vision to build a dream home or an investor to profit. This bungalow features a spacious living and dining room, eat in kitchen and an oversized bedroom. The basement is finished with separate entrance. Grow your money.

Impressive home with 9 feet ceiling, Led lights, open concept with gas fireplace, eat in kitchen, master bedroom with full ensuite, side entrance to the basement and 3 bedrooms. Freshly painted in modern tones. A true pleasure.

$599,900

$519,000 Little Jack Horner

Red Hot and Ripe for A Deal

Will get out of his corner to see this home with 3 bedrooms, 3 washrooms, living and dining room, modern kitchen, finish basement, garage, fenced yard and private driveway. Upgrades include ceramic, hardwood floors and LED lights.

Impressively spacious home with 4 bedrooms, 4 baths and a master bedroom with full ensuite, main floor laundry, fireplace and a finished basement. This gem needs polishing. Act now!

3500+ HOMES

TheBrij.com

* Sales mean both buyer and seller transactions from 1990 to 2016, Team Sales combined.

Anjie Brijpaul,

Direct: 416.988.5369 Office: 416-745-2300

MA Sales Representative

Jay Brijpaul, Broker, FRI

Direct: 416.418.2745 (BRIJ) Office: 416-745-2300

96 Rexdale Blvd.

Toronto ON M9W 1N7

*

www.danforthfoodmarket.com We’re simply the best West Indian store in town.

1

99

99

7

1

Garden Patch Whole Kernel Corn

$ 2/

British Class

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1

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2

Milo Chocolate Malt Beverage Mix

Naisa Brown Sugar

99

Omni Red Palm Oil

3

Nutrament Energy Nutrition Drink Vanilla ONLY 355 ml

Assorted 284 ml

1 kg

69 each each

39

3

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4

500 ml

¢

each

Live Fruits Pineapple Spears 1.23 L

each

99 each

99 each Each

341 ml

1L

115 g

each

each

99

Nupak Green Pigeon Peas

Calypso Carbolic Soap

Whitener 300 ml

99

1L

425 ml

Sweetened Condensed

¢

each

99

¢

each

900 g

Diamond Coconut Milk 400 ml

each each

99

2

2

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1

Assorted 423 ml

each

$ 3/

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¢

each

99 each

39 each

Grace Corned Beef

2

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3

Assorted 340 g

each

99

8’s

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50 $ 2/

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N e w Brampton Location

Soft Opening Continues This Week

The New Way of Shopping Experience To Service You Better at 144 Kennedy Road South Look For The Grand Opening Soon!!!

Jamaican Stew Frozen Easy Cook

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17

5

case of 10 kg With Purchase of 2 Cases or More

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Salted Pig Tails

Fresh Pork Feet

1

3

4

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Fresh Lane Snapper

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5

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99 $ 49 bag

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Frozen Beef Shank Steak

Fresh Chicken Soup Bone

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Young Whole Chicken 4-5lbs

49 49 99 99 $ $ $ $ 99 $ lb lb lb lb lb

Fresh Seafood Catches

Fresh Whole Salmon

3

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4

$ 49 $ 99 $ 79 $ 99 $ 99 lb as is

From

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lb as is

Fresh Jamaican Sweet Potatoes

lb as is

2.27 kg

99 3 79 Six Locations To Serve You Better

9

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¢

lb

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49

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lb

case

Specials in Effect Thu. Feb. 20th until Wed. Feb. 26th, 2020.

Store Hours

Monday-Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 8 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 7 pm

Store Hours

Monday-Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 9 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 8 pm

Lawrence Ave. E .

Store Hours

Monday-Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 9 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 7 pm

Finch Ave. E.

Store Hours

Mond-Thurs 8:30 am to 8 pm Fri.-Sat. 8:30 am to 8:30 pm Sunday 9 am to 6 pm

Dixie Rd.

Dundas St. E.

Store Hours

Mond-Thurs 9:30 am to 9 pm Fri.-Sat. 9 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 6 pm

Stafford Dr.

Rutherford Rd. South .

Finch Ave. W .

Danforth Food Market 3051 Pharmacy Ave North Finch 416-490-9219

Bloor St. E.

Danforth Food Market 1225 Dundas St. Dixie & Dundas Missisauga 905-949-9990

Cawtra Rd.

d

Steeles Ave. E .

Pharmacy Rd.

Roa

Danforth Food Market 651 Markam Rd. 416-439-6397

Markam Rd.

ion

Martin Grove Rd.

Danforth Food Market 301 Silverstone Dr. A l b 416-740-9870

D r.

Keele St.

Sheppard Ave. W .

Sheppard Ave. E .

Steeles Ave. W.

Si lv er st on e

Finch Ave. W.

Danforth Food Market 3701 Keele St. 416-398-8123

Kennedy Rd. Soith

Although we strive for accuracy in both copy & illustration, unintentional error may occur, we reserve the right to correct any error. Specials Available While Quantities Last. We reserve the right to limit quantities.

Danforth Food Market 144 Kennedy Road South 289-298-0399

Glidden Rd.

Store Hours

Monday-Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 8 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 7 pm

PAGE 26

FOOD

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Light and Flairy SWEET POTATO CROQUETTES NOEL CUNNINGHAM noel@carib101.com

CULINARY EXPERT

Tired of boring sides and looking for a substitute? Don’t worry; you know I always got you covered. This week I’m sharing with you one of my go to side dishes that is perfect with any protein and any day of the week.

These are my light and flairy sweet potato croquettes.

The French word “croquette” means “to crunch.” These crunchy morsels have a cheesy and creamy filling and can be served as an appetizer, ready in 45 minutes.

Making croquettes is an easy and creative way to use up any leftover sweet potatoes.

The first time I made these croquettes was for a television show in Jamaica and everyone loved them. These croquettes are made with sweet potatoes, butter, spices and eggs, then rolled, battered and deep-fried. Croquettes are easy to pick up, crunchy on the outside with a soft creamy texture. They are perfect for babies and toddlers but are sure to be a hit with the kid in you. They don’t require any special cooking skill and the whole thing comes together in less than an hour. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They’re also high in antioxidants that protect your body from free radical damage and chronic disease. The antioxidants in sweet potatoes may provide gut benefits as well. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which can be converted to vitamin A and help support your immune system and gut health. So not only does this recipe is tasty but adding more sweet potatoes in your diet is also healthy for you.

Sweet potato croquettes Recipe: Preparation time:15 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes, serves: 6-8

Ingredients • 3 large sweet potatoes (washed, peeled, diced) • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter • Salt and black pepper • ½ garlic clove, grated • ½ teaspoon nutmeg, grated • 2 egg yolks • ½ cup all-purpose flour • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs • 2 egg whites • 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated (optional) Directions 1. Boil potatoes in salted water until fully cooked, remove from flame and drain.

2. Transfer sweet potatoes to a medium bowl then add butter, salt and pepper, garlic, nutmeg, parmesan cheese and egg yolks. Use a potato masher and mash until smooth and creamy then put in the refrigerator to chill.

3. Remove mixture from the refrigerator and shape mixture into cylinder shape. Freeze for 20 minutes (helps to keep the shape once breaded).

4. Whisk eggs with 2 tablespoon cream or milk in a bowl and set aside.

5. Put the panko breadcrumbs in another bowl.

6. Dip sweet potato croquettes into the flour, then egg mixture, then breadcrumbs and put aside. At this stage you can freeze these for later use and fry once ready.

7. Heat up the oil to 340°F – 170°C then carefully place the croquettes into the oil.

Chef Notes: Do it in batches depending on the size of your frying pan. Keep moving them around so they don’t burn on the bottom. They will be ready when golden brown. Place on absorbent paper then serve.

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HEALTH

Wednesday, February 19, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 29

Will you be my healthy Valentine?

DR. VIKAS PURI drpuri@carib101.com

HEALTH SPECIALIST

1. Smoking is one of the top controllable risk factors for heart disease. Smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke increases your risk of developing heart disease and stroke.

2. Quality sleep is important to heart health, as it is involved in healing and repairing your heart vessels.

3. Consuming fruits, vegetables, foods with high fibre and fish high in Omega 3 such as salmon, and tuna.

4. Eating dark chocolate consisting of healthy flavonoids help reduce inflammation and lower your risk for heart disease 5. Practicing mindfulness and meditation may help you manage stress and high blood pressure which maintains a healthy heart.

6. Getting and staying active can reduce your risk of developing heart disease.

Your heart is a muscle, and exercise helps make it stronger.

7. Drinking green tea is associated with a lower risk of heart disease. Green tea has powerful antioxidants which can help prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries.

8. Eliminating stress, anxiety and anger sustains a healthy heart. Identifying and determining the things that are causing you to stress so you can deal with them effectively.

9. Drinking water instead of drinking your calories is important to the human heart.

Your heart is constantly working, pumping about 2,000 gallons of blood a day.

By staying hydrated you are assisting your heart do its job with reduced strain.

10. It’s important to control cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar. The early detection and management of medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol can help you reduce your risk of heart disease.

Beyond this, a largely unknown fact is that chiropractic care is a very important and powerful means of managing stress hormone levels in the body. As such, research studies have shown a reduction in blood pressure and other cardiovascular diseases when the body is undergoing regular chiropractic care.

As chiropractors we do not treat blood pressure. We treat spinal problems that increase stress hormones in the body and impair nervous system function. By reversing this issue, problems like blood pressure are improved as a positive “side effect” of chiropractic treatment.

So visit a Chiropractor today for a wellness check-up. Be a Healthy Valentine; improve your heart health and your life!

OIL REMEDY FOR ALL KINDS OF JOINT PAIN

OIL REMEDY FOR ALL KINDS OF JOINT PAIN

Did you know that about 1 in 12 (or 2.4 million) Canadian adults age 20 and over live with diagnosed heart disease? Approximately every hour, about 12 Canadian adults age 20 and over are diagnosed with heart disease.

Heart disease refers to the buildup of plaque in the heart’s arteries that could lead to heart attack, heart failure, or death.

As per the Government of Canada, the death rate is 3 times higher among adults age 20 and over with diagnosed heart disease compared to those without; 4 times higher among adults age 20 and over who have had a heart attack compared to those who have not; 6 times higher among adults age 40 and over with diagnosed heart failure compared to those without. Men have higher hospitalization and death rates related to

heart disease than women in all age groups.

But the difference lessens with age. However, because women live longer than men, there were a similar number of deaths for women and men from heart disease.

Government of Canada also states that the simple action of shoveling snow has negative impacts on the human heart, “Risk factors include both strenuous exercise and cold weather because they can increase blood pressure and heart rate. When strenuous exercise and cold weather are combined, the risk of heart attack is even greater.”

February is heart health month, promoting the importance of cardiovascular health as it is the second leading causes of death in Canada for both men and women and is preventable. Below, are ten tips that may assist in preventing cardiovascular disease.

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Sleep, brain cleaning and Alzheimer’s disease New research suggests that getting quality sleep may be even more important than once realized. In particular, sleep disruptions could impact the way the brain functions. Here’s what’s been uncovered.

TOXIC PROTEINS The presence of amyloid beta plaques in the brain is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. Normally, the brain’s glymphatic system uses cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to remove these proteins and other waste products. But if these proteins accumulate in the brain, they can destroy healthy neurons, thereby causing various symptoms.

The proper functioning of the glymphatic system, however, heavily depends on the quality of sleep.

search suggests that working to improve sleep quality in at-risk populations could be a promising avenue for prevention.

IMPROVING YOUR SLEEP This new information reinforces the idea that maintaining good sleeping habits is crucial to your long-term health.

If you routinely wake up feeling exhausted, take steps to improve the quality of your sleep.

For instance, you can try limiting caffeine in the afternoon, getting more daily exercise and cutting down on screen time before bed.

Sleep problems shouldn’t be ignored. If you’re worried about your sleeping habits, or if lifestyle changes don’t seem to help, be sure to consult a healthcare professional.

SLEEP AND AGING The glymphatic system functions best du­ring deep non-REM sleep, which is the stage of sleep that typically becomes shorter as we age. Thus, scientists suspect that age-related chan­ges in sleep play an important role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

A NEW AVENUE FOR PREVENTION The connection between aging, sleep chan­ges and Alzheimer’s disease is well established. However, the new re-

PAGE 31

The link between gut bacteria and depression There are trillions of bacteria that make up the gut’s ecosystem, and scientists are currently exploring the ways in which they may be linked to mental health and cognition. Here’s what we know so far.

BACTERIAL DIVERSITY AND HEALTH The relationship between the diversity of bacteria in the gut and digestive health is fairly well understood. For instance, most digestive tracts contain the bacteria c. difficile, which can cause serious symptoms but is usually prevented from proliferating by other bacteria. If bacterial diversity is upset, however, it can take over and cause severe infections.

MORE RESEARCH NEEDED While researchers caution that more work is needed to establish a clear relationship between gut bacteria and mental health, the correlations are telling. It’s hoped that eventually scientists can identify bacteria associated with better mental health.

Whatever the results of future studies, keeping the gut biome healthy is undoubtedly beneficial. Eating lots of fibre, fresh and in-season fruits and vegetables and probiotic foods like yogurt has been shown to help maintain bacterial diversity.

DEPRESSION AND GUT HEALTH A Belgian study found that, in three cohorts totalling over 2,000 people, those with depression, or who reported a lower mental quality of life, were missing bacteria from the genera Coprococcus and Dialister. This was also true of those on antidepressant medication.

Conjunctivitis: causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

4 myths about PTSD Post-traumatic stress disorder, better known as PTSD, is both well-known and poorly understood. Here are four common myths about it that need to be debunked.

And, just as weakness doesn’t cause PTSD, trying hard to feel better or “powering through” won’t cure it. PTSD needs to be treated by a medical professional.

1. PTSD only affects soldiers. While it’s estimated that 10 to 20 per cent of North American veterans will experience PTSD, nearly anyone can develop the disorder.

Abuse, assaults, natural disasters, accidents and surviving a critical illness can all trigger PTSD. Also, some people develop PTSD if a loved one goes through a traumatic event or dies suddenly.

4. PTSD makes people violent. The myth that people with PTSD can lose track of reality and lash out violently is inaccurate and potentially harmful as it stigmatizes afflicted individuals as dangerous. In actuality, neither psychosis nor aggression are standard symptoms of PTSD and less than eight per cent of patients exhibit violent behaviour.

2. Trauma means PTSD. Most people who encounter trauma don’t develop PTSD. In fact, they’re more likely to experience acute stress immediately following the event, which can manifest as insomnia, anxiety and other symptoms.

By contrast, PTSD can develop a long time after the initial event, sometimes years after experiencing the trauma.

PTSD is a more common condition than many people think, and it can be treated effectively with a range of behavioural interventions and medications.

3.

Weakness causes PTSD. PTSD isn’t a character flaw, nor is it caused by one. Like depression, it’s as much a biological condition as a mental one, and genetic predisposition to mental health issues is a known risk factor.

FEATURE

Conjunctivitis, more commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane that covers the inside of the eyelid and the white part of the eye.

CAUSES Most cases of conjunctivitis are the result of a virus. However, it also can be caused by a bacterial infection, an allergy or a chemical coming into contact with the eye. In a newborn, a blocked tear duct may be the cause of conjunctivitis.

SYMPTOMS Regardless of the cause, symptoms include: • Itching, burning or a gritty sensation in the eyes • Excessive tear production • Reddish or pink eyes • Swelling of the eyelids • Blurry vision and light sensitivity Infectious conjunctivitis will also be characterized by an aqueous, transparent discharge if caused by a virus or a mucus-like yellow discharge if caused by bacteria.

DIAGNOSIS Conjunctivitis is typically diagnosed through a simple exam and analysis of the patient’s health history. More advanced testing such as tissue smears or cultures may be required for chronic cases or those that don’t respond to treatment.

TREATMENT The condition typically resolves on its own within a few days. However, infectious forms are highly contagious, so it’s important to consult a medical professional to receive proper diagnosis and treatment.

For bacterial cases, antibiotic drops and un­ guents may be prescribed. Viral cases have to run their course, but artificial tears will help manage symptoms. Finally, allergy- and chemical- related cases are treated with antihistamine eye drops, along with the removal of the offending substance from the patient’s environment when possible.

If conjunctivitis lasts for more than a week, return to your doctor for further assessment.

INFECTIOUS CONJUNCTIVITIS GUIDELINES To avoid spreading the infection, wash your hands frequently and don’t touch your eyes. You should also clean your pillowcases daily and throw out anything that came into contact with your eyes such as disposable contacts and makeup brushes.

PAGE 32

COMMUNITY

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

HOLDING THE WORLD TOGETHER Our mothers of civilization

ERROL A. GIBBS errol@carib101.com

PHILOSOPHER

This brief treatise is to awaken and enlighten the world to the great benefits to humankind when we acknowledge the noticeable and the extraordinary attributes of our "Mothers of Civilization." People may attempt to create a distinction between "women" and "mothers," but empirical observation teaches that childbearing, though central to "motherhood," does not fundamentally exclude "womanhood."

The "heart" of a mother goes beyond critically looking at parenthood - indistinguishable from womanhood. Women nurture children, whether they are childbearing mothers or they have never experienced motherhood. They are neither jealous nor envious of their counterpart with children. Instead, they embrace the offspring of other women with their "head" and "heart" as though they are the "fruit of their womb."

Despite the diverse representations of women in the postmodern era, undeniable, women desire love and inclusion into the fraternity of sisterhood, friendship, marriage, motherhood, family, and fidelity.

Women principally keep their marriages,

families, communities, and nations together. They have a boundless capacity to imbue love and happiness in the lives of their partners, children, and their larger circle of family and friends. Hence, empowering women benefits the whole of humanity.

"No language can express the power, and beauty, and heroism, and majesty of a mother's love. It shrinks not where man cowers and grows stronger where man faints, and over wastes of worldly fortunes sends the radiance of its quenchless fidelity like a star" - Edwin Hubbell Chapin (1814–1880).

"A father may turn his back on his child, brothers, and sisters may become inveterate enemies; husbands may desert their wives, wives their husbands. But a mother's love endures through all" - Washington Irving (1783–1859).

When future generations examine the "flight recorder" of human history, they will discover an essential piece of the human chronicle - the institutional methods that the males of the species have used to dominate every aspect of human existence. Paradoxically, six thousand years of the records of history will testify to great male leadership on the one hand and high "moral failure" on the other hand. Historians would tender that men had occupied near every position of leadership and authority in the world for centuries.

Throughout history, women have faced challenges, from labor, social, and economic exclusion to gender and sexual exploitation to political and corporate exclusion. Women have experienced barriers

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because of their race, religion, language, culture, colour, education, status, and stature. They have agitated for equality, peace, and justice in various movements, including (but not limited to) the suffrage movement of the early 1800s to the mid-1900s, the women's rights movement, rebellion and feminism, and for gender equality.

Over one hundred years ago, in 1909, the recognition of women's place in society began through National Women's Day. First celebrated in 1911, March 8, 2020, will mark another historic International Women's Day. Unknowingly, the benevolence of women has always been the key to human survival, in stark denial of the legacy of their exceptional achievements in history, but not without some controversy as well. Can civilization progress without the voices of our nurturing and caring mothers?

A meaningful measure of human progress is the status of women as coequals, co-partners, and co-owners, working together with their male counterparts to create a happier and healthier world for the present and future generations. Women are the original builders of civilization.

In periods of international conflict, women heal felled soldiers in battle. In times of family turmoil, women stand between fathers and sons. When the child cries at midnight, the mother awakens to attend to its needs.

"Since a time has come, Mademoiselle, when the severe laws of men no longer prevent women from applying themselves to the sciences and other disci-

plines, it seems to me that those of us who can, should use this long-craved freedom to study and to let men see how greatly they wronged us when depriving us of its honor and advantages" - Louise Labé (1524–1566).

The legacies of great women of yesteryear live on in new generations of women in every profession that once were the domain of men. Women are finding their place in the halls of academia, from science and technology to engineering, medicine, law, and politics. Women offer the best proposition as even-keeled from the ground floor to positions of Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), and Prime Ministers and Presidents.

Applaud goes out to Sanna Mirella Marin, a Finnish politician who has been serving as the Prime Minister of Finland since December 10th, 2019. Marin is all set to become the world's youngest prime minister who will run a coalition cabinet, led by women - four of them are in their 30's (New Delhi. December 10th, 2019, 19:47 IST) (Abridged).

The male genius tends to lead from the "head" - hence significant advancements in science and technology, space exploration, and growth in industrial complexes. Conversely, women lead with "heart," "head," and "soul." They lead with spirit, integrity, and authenticity. Holding the world together, our "Mothers of Civilization" can create the essential human ecosystems that undergird the quest for a happier, peaceful, secure, and sustainable world.

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PAGE 34

LIFE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Always do your best! Wrapping up my journey through the Four Agreements SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

HUMAN SPECIALIST

Greek Gods, Mayan Gods, Norse Gods…

What about Egyptian Gods? Part II

BY MAKAYLA B. 11 YEARS OLD TC JUNIOR CONTRIBUTOR Welcome back to part II, of my journey through Egyptian Gods. Last week, I introduced Osiris, and his brother Set. We also learned about Isis, and her sister Nephthys.

This edition, I am going to introduce you to one my personal favourites Bast.

If you saw one of the many feared Egyptian gods or goddesses, you would be petrified.

But if you saw a lady wearing a cheetah-patterned jumpsuit you wouldn’t be petrified.

Or would you?

Greetings Toronto! I believe that we have all nestled into 2020, and for some of us it has been motivating and positive. For others, it has been debilitating, and tiresome.

I have experienced both sides of this coin we call life, and it is why wrapping up my series with this topic is timely.

Before we go any further, I recommend that you review my last three articles. You might be interested in going directly to the source of my inspiration, the book ‘The Four Agreements: A Practical to Personal Freedom,’ by bestselling author Don Miguel Ruiz.

In my last three articles, I personally challenged myself to focus on an agreement every two weeks. I focused on the individual agreement, to see how it played out in my life. I learned that it is a challenge breaking bad habits. We learn from an early age how to behave in society, what to believe and not to believe. What is acceptable, and what is not acceptable. What is good, and what is bad. We are all included in the convoluted soup, and unless we are

aware of ourselves, truly aware, we end up remaining domesticated our entire lives.

Don Miguel discusses, “The domestication of humans,” and explains it as giving into the beliefs and agreement that have already been laid out for us. I am working on un-domesticating myself, and I thought, why not? Let me include the community in on the journey.

The final agreement is to ALWAYS DO YOUR BEST. Do you have any idea how hard this is? For some reason, doing what is wrong seems easier then doing what is right sometimes. I mean well, I swear I do.

What I recognized, and am open to, is the idea that my best will depend on what is happening in my life at that moment.

Some days I want to stay in bed all day.

Other days I could run a marathon. What this agreement tells us is that regardless of how you feel do your best in that moment.

What about those people who are hard on themselves? The people who are intrinsically motivated? We tend to take it harder and get down on ourselves when things don’t go exactly as we want it to go.

Never be hung up on the small things. Each day is a new mountain, and you are going to pick a strategy that matches how you feel. Regardless of the quality, always do your best; not more, not less.

There are days when I am highly motivated. I can successfully pump out four to five articles. On days like this, I aim for six. There are those days that I can bare-

ly gather my thoughts to get out two articles. I write two articles, grab my favourite snack, grab my comforter and lay on the couch nursing my wounds. The day is what it is and I don’t take it so hard anymore.

Be impeccable with your words.

Don’t take it personally. Don’t make assumptions. Always do your best. One thing you must know is that the first three agreements will only work if you do your best.

There are times that I am not impeccable with my words, but I quickly correct myself and do better the next day.

I am the queen of taking things personally. I blame my astrological sign for that. It is a work in progress, and I am thankful for my partner Dave who is quick to remind me to take it easy. “I don’t think it is about you Simone.” It is infuriating to hear when I am in my feelings, but I know he is right.

Making assumptions is also a work in progress. I plan to find ways to help with these agreements, and I keep people around me who have mastered any of these agreements. It definitely helps.

YOU can un-domesticate yourself by using the fourth agreement repeatedly, and creating new habits. If you break an agreement, just start over. Don’t judge yourself! I hope that this article series has been helpful, and I encourage each and every one of you to take some time to develop yourself personally. I want to see everyone at their best this year.

Bast also known as Bastet, Ubasti, and Pasch, is the daughter and protector of Ra. Bast represents and is goddess of: cats, the home, fire, sunrise, music, dance, pleasure, fertility, family, pregnant woman, children, domesticity, wome n, and protection.

In Egypt if you killed a cat, you were punished. Cats were thought to be the physical form of Bast. They were important to the Egyptians because they killed snakes and other pests. They also slowed the speed of disease.

Bast is pictured in different ways: sometimes as a woman with the head of a cat, and other times a cat holding a knife fighting off Apep, her sworn enemy. One belief is that Bast is the personification of Isis.

For every god or goddess, they have one symbol or more that represents them. For Bast it’s a cat and lion. It was believed that she protected the house from evil spirits and diseases.

I hope you learnt something new about my favourite Egyptian goddess Bast!

EMPOWERING OUR YOUNG MINDS OF TOMORROW TORONTO CARIBBEAN NEWS INC.

The taboo, the extraordinary, and the chaotic Open relationships, full moons and retrogrades GARCIA AKUA

garcia@carib101.com

COSMIC CORNER

Greetings Family! Welcome back to the Cosmic Corner. This week we will be digging into the taboo, the extraordinary and the chaotic. This pretty much sums up the year we have been having so far.

With Valentine’s Day coming up, I had a very interesting conversation on polyamorous relationships. I decided to conduct a survey on social media to see how others felt about open relationships.

The responses were honest and well-articulated. The exercise taught me a lot more than the topic at hand. But we’ll get to that shortly when we discuss the full moon.

I asked a series of questions around open relationships. Are women comfortable with the concept of sister wives? Are men comfortable with being one of multiple husbands, which I coined ‘brother husband’? The responses were as hilarious as they were serious.

Overall, women in the majority were against the concept of sister wives.

The main reason was they don’t like the

idea of sharing. Most men said they would prefer a monogamous relationship as well.

Women equally supportive and were against the idea of brother husbands.

Those in support expressed having different ‘husbands’ for different purposes would be ideal.

Men were also equally supportive, which was very surprising to me. Those in support felt if defined boundaries were put in place, they would be open to the idea.

Quite a few men expressed it would be easier to protect and provide for their wife and children.

The results showed that many people are open to different approaches to dating and relationships. As we step into a new decade, people are finding new ways to connect with each other.

Although quite thought-provoking, you must be wondering what do open relationships have to do with full moons or retrogrades?

Let’s look to the sky for some answers…

On February 9th we had a full moon in Leo. This is the first of four supermoons, taking us from now until May. A supermoon occurs when the moon is at its closest distance to the earth. The moon appears larger in size and its energy is felt more intensely.

The theme of the recent full moon in Leo was authenticity and freedom. Leo is the regal sign of self-expression, creativity and integrity.

We are being asked who are we at

our core. Take all the titles, labels and expectations away, who are you? This is how we define our authenticity. It is only when we can be authentic with ourselves, we can effectively express ourselves with others.

If we are to attract the right partner or multiple consenting partners, we need to know what we are looking for and what we are committed to offering. Happiness and freedom comes from within and is defined on your terms.

Luckily, we have our first Mercury retrograde of the year on February 17th!

Many people cringe at the sound of retrograde. However, retrogrades are powerful opportunities to slow down and heal. This retrograde will have a heavy emphasis on deep emotions as it will take place in the sign of Pisces. Use this time to spend time with you, the real you. Self-care is more than manicures and facials. It’s also making sure you show up for yourself by being true to you first.

Face your fears, examine what is truly taboo, or if it is it someone elses experience or expectations? Use the energy of the supermoons to illuminate your true inner being and lastly, use this first retrograde to become comfortable with that inner being, taboos and all.

Retrogrades, like life, do not always have to be chaotic. The answer to our peace and happiness lays deep within.

Step into the unknown of yourself. Find your freedom!

LIFE

Wednesday, February 19, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 35

Assuming the throne of a nation at just 10 Years old Ahmose 1st – The Liberator of Kemet Part II DAVE RANKIN dave@carib101.com

AFRICAN HISTORY

All hail Neb-Pehty-Re meaning, “The Lord of Strength is Re.” Is there a 10 year old that you know right now that would be able to lead a kingdom?

Take in the fact that they recently learned about the deaths of their father, and brother within three years of each other. Imagine learning that they died in combat attempting to liberate the country at the hands of

foreigners. Then, without enough time to grieve, having to assume the throne of a nation as early as 10 years old.

In my last article, I introduced the community to Ahmose the 1st, (aka, NebPehty-Re), a child who had to take on the weight and responsibilities that come with being a newly appointed ruler. The last article examined what those types of circumstances would do to a child. How this type of trauma, and then added responsibility would affect the child’s cognitive development. Let us complete our story about Ahmose the 1st.

A great force that is worth mentioning at this time is Ahhotep, Ahmose the 1st’s mother. Ahhotep or “The Moon is Satisfied” was a stabilizing force. She was plunged into a difficult situation. Like many of our African women, she rose to the occasion, like our queens often do. Ahmose the 1st had later written that his mother was

”The one who has accomplished the rites and taken care of Egypt. She has looked after her soldiers; she has brought back her fugitives and collected together her deserters. She has pacified Upper Egypt and expelled her rebels.” It was a no-brainer that she would be the one to instruct her son on the matters of the throne. Ahhotep had her work cut out for her, and respect must be given. She had to hold the country together until her son came of age.

At the age of 20, Ahmose the 1st was ready to take on his duties as a king.

What he accomplished during his regency is legendary. In the article titled, “The War of Liberation” I mentioned expulsion of the Hyksos from Kemet; going into Palestine and Nubia to quell any further Hyksos rebellion; controlling the gold mines, which brought the much-needed income into Kemet.

These feats are so widely known

that they can be found in almost any ancient African history book. For those of us who would need a point of reference, one may consider researching the Rhind Papyrus. This contains some of the military strategy Ahmose the 1st used during his campaigns.

With the revenge Ahmose the 1st sought now completed, the building of a new and powerful kingdom became a reality. By now, the Liberator of Kemet was a family man. With 25 years of earthly rule, Ahmose the 1st gave up the ghost at 35 years of age. His successor, his son Amenhotep the 1st also established a long line of rulers that will be discussed in detail at some point.

The life and times of Ahmose the 1st will forever be an example that through tragedy and with great support, triumph is inevitable.

Youth anxiety: helping kids to face and deal with their fears PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

EDUCATION

Anxiety in youth is an issue that has repercussions and effects in their lived realities.

It comes in many forms and expressions and it can have a profound impact on the lives of youth.

According to Anxiety Canada, “Anxiety is our body’s normal reaction to perceived danger or important events.

Anxiety is like an internal system. It alerts us to danger and helps our body prepare to deal with it. Anxiety comes in many forms making it challenging, interesting and difficult to deal with. Anxiety is normal and expected response to a threat. It’s what helps you notice a danger and keeps you

safe until a threat passes.”

It is important to understand the connection between stress and anxiety.

According to the International Dyslexia Association, “Stress is the reaction of the body and brain to situations that puts us in harms ways. The stressor may be a physical threat, or a psychological threat.

Stress, or more specifically the stress response, is our body’s attempt to keep us safe from harm. It’s a biological and psychological response (http://www.interdys. org). Furthermore, anxiety is a state of worry about what might be –as compared to stress, which is a reaction to what is. ”

The same chemical reactions are involved in the brain, when stress and anxiety are triggered. Worrying frequently about something negative occurring will lead to a state of chronic stress. According to Toronto District School Board’s 2017 Student and Parent Census Data (released on Tuesday, November 13th, 2018) involved more than 222,000 students and parents.

There was an overall 10% decline in the emotional well being of students in Grade

7 to 12 compared to the last census. Emotional well being included: how they see themselves, the future and if they often feel sad, lonely and anxious.

According to John Malloy, Director of the TDSB, “This information offers important insights into what student’s lives are like outside of the classroom, and what supports we need to offer inside the classroom to respond. When we, as educators, know who our students are, when we listen closely to their needs, we then can provide services that meet those needs.”

It has been estimated that the total number of 12 to 19 years old who are experiencing depression is increasing and anxiety is the biggest symptom of this overarching stress. (Canadian Mental Institute). There are different types of anxiety that youth experience and the symptoms that manifest depend on the type. These symptoms may include: feelings of fear, uneasiness or panic, problems failing asleep, sweaty hands or feet, breathing difficulty, shortness of breath, and an inability to be calm, (WebMD). There are other symptoms such as: dizziness, muscle tension, nausea

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and tingling or numbness in the feet or hand.

Anxiety often manifests itself in different types of anxiety disorders.

WebMD defined it as “A mental illness that produces fear, worry and a constant feeling of being overwhelmed.” Common anxiety disorders include social anxiety, specific phobias (severe anxiety or fears) and generalized anxiety. It is unconfirmed what causes anxiety disorder, although certain risk factors such as: personality, family history, stresses and brain illness have been implicated. Generalized anxiety is, “A kind of free-floating sense of worrying or impending trouble that doesn’t seem to be specific to one trigger event” (www.interdys.org).

It is important that trained professionals be consulted to provide expert advice to help youth. The DE-STRESS (Define, Educate, Speculate, Teach, Reduce the Threat, Exercise, Success and Strategize) model has been recommended as a stepby-step guide for helping kids deal with anxiety.

PAGE 36

LIFE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

TAX DEADLINE : APRIL 30 WHAT ARE THE CONSEQUENCES OF NOT FILING YOUR TAXES ON TIME? Ever wondered what happens when you don’t file your taxes on time? While the repercussions vary depending on whether or not you owe money in taxes, the consequences can be serious, regardless of your financial situation.

If you file late but don’t owe taxes, you won’t have to pay penalties but may still pay a price. You won’t receive your refund until after you file, and there may be a delay in getting benefits you may be eligible for, such as the GST/HST or Child Benefit credit.

If you file late and do owe taxes, the consequences are severe. You’ll be charged penalties starting with five per cent of the amount owed plus one per cent of the balance for each month your return is late. You’ll also have to pay compound daily interest.

Penalties may double if you file late more than once over four years.

After filing late twice during a four-year period, you’ll be charged an even larger penalty; 10 per cent of the total amount of

income earned and not reported in the last year, plus two per cent of your total balance for each month your return is late.

Plus, if you make a habit of not filing taxes, the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) may investigate your finances. If they determine that you’ve been evading paying taxes, you could face consequences as serious as prison time.

To avoid these frightening prospects, make sure to file your taxes well in advance of the April 30 deadline. And don’t forget to hire a tax professional to ensure that there are no errors or missed deductions on your returns.

Wednesday, February 19, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

HOME & GARDEN

2 key things to ask before knocking down a wall Are you considering knocking down a wall?

Whether it’s to modernize your home’s lay­o ut or create more space, this isn’t a renovation to be taken lightly. Here are some things to consider before hiring a contractor to demolish a wall.

1. IS THE WALL LOAD-BEARING? Demolishing a wall that’s a structural part of your home could be disastrous. While it’s possible to replace these walls with a beam or column, you’ll need to consult an engineer.

2. WHAT’S BEHIND THE WALL? Even if the wall isn’t load-bearing, there may be components lurking behind the drywall that you can’t see. Pipes, wi­r ing

and HVAC systems may need to be moved before the wall can be taken down.

The most important thing to keep in mind if you plan to knock down a wall is that it’s not a job you should attempt on your own. Always hire a professional when making structural changes to your home.

The best way to display your collections Are you a collector? Whether it’s books, magnets or vintage glassware, it can be hard to know how to best display the treasures you’ve accumulated. Here’s how to expertly show them off.

GROUP IT TOGETHER A collection that’s displayed as a whole is more impactful than one that’s dispersed throughout the house. You could: • Create a gallery wall. Frame and present your collection of vintage maps or photos.

• Install floating shelves. Use them to display grouped-together figurines and other small collectibles.

• Use glass jars to show off your collection

of rocks, buttons or shells.

MATCH IT TO THE ROOM The best display for your collection is one that matches its surroundings. The kitchen is the perfect place for antique jars or vases; the bathroom is a great home for old perfume bottles or vintage jewelry; and a den or entertainment room is the best place to show off old movie posters.

If your collection is so extensive that it would overwhelm the space, don’t display everything at once. Show off only your most impressive pieces and keep the rest in storage. Or, rotate pieces periodically so that every item has a chance to shine.

PAGE 37

Lighting dos and don’ts Lighting plays a big role in how interior spaces look and feel. Make sure your home is beautifully lit by following these dos and don’ts.

Don’t forget to match your lampshades and light fixtures to the decor in the room.

They should complement and enhance your design choices.

Do tailor the lighting to the room. Kitchens and bathrooms require bright task lights, while bedrooms and dining rooms should have ambient lights.

Above all, be sure to call an electrician if you’re moving light fixtures around or need to replace switches. They’ll make sure the work’s done properly, thereby reducing the risk of an electrical fire.

Don’t exclusively install hanging lights in the dining room. Chandeliers look equally great in entranceways, bedrooms and even bathrooms. Just be sure the one you choose is the right size for the space and that it’s hung at the correct height.

Do use dimmers. Adjusting the brightness in a room is a great way to either add ambience or have more light to see.

Dimmers don’t just add atmosphere.

They also reduce energy consumption and will help your lightbulbs last longer. In addition, some LED bulbs, which are already highly energy efficient, now work with dimmers.

Don’t forget to think about your lightbulbs.

Task lighting should be bright and stark, while ambient lighting should be soft and warm.

Do use a combination of floor lamps, table lamps and overhead fixtures.

Not every room needs all of these but aim to use at least two types.

Things to consider before building a garage If you don’t have a garage, but are thinking about building one, here are some things to consider.

Regardless, make sure to plan accordingly in terms of insulation, lighting and other features.

ZONING LAWS Before you begin your project, check with your municipality. Many towns and cities have regulations concerning the size and placement of garages.

VENTILATION If you’re planning on parking your car or storing paint and other toxic substances in your garage, a proper ventilation system ensures that the air remains safe to breathe.

ATTACHED VS. DETACHED Some homeowners appreciate parking in an attached garage that leads directly into their house, especially in inclement weather. Others, however, prefer not to distract from the look of their home and opt instead for a detached garage.

FUNCTION Are you planning on simply parking in the garage, or will it also be used as storage? Or, per­haps you want to use the space as a workshop, gym or office?

No matter what type of garage you build, be sure to hire reputable contractors. In particular, garage door installation can be dangerous and should be done by an expert.

PAGE 38

TECHNOLOGY

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Brampton’s State of the City 2020: The snoozefest that wasn’t?

CHRISTINA GWIRA christina@carib101.com

TECH SPECIALIST

On Tuesday, February 4th, 2020, I was given the opportunity to attend the Brampton Board of Trade’s State of the City. This was the first time that I had attended or heard about this event, but was super grateful for the invitation that was extended to me. When it comes to events like these, I tense up for two reasons. The first is in respect to my age, will I be the youngest person in attendance? The second is in respect to, well, the obvious… will there be people on the stage, within the crowd, on my table who look like me?

Pleasantly, the event took place LITERALLY around the corner from my house; I could have walked there if I wanted, but this was a business event, so turning up with a light sweat was ill-advised. So I Lyfted there instead.

I’ve driven - and ran - in front of the Millennium Banquet Hall for over 5 years, and inside was impressive, as was the food and service… kinda. After checking my jacket, I met an elder in the bathroom, and we were both there… adjusting our wigs; I kid you not. It was an incredible, bonding moment, which just further made me feel out of place at the event that I was walking into. I mean, if myself and an elder were both, changing a big aspect of ourselves to look… “presentable” for the company that we were about to delve into, was this really a space that I wanted to place myself in?

For about a year now, I’ve been contemplating whether or not to join a board of trade; whether the Brampton one, or find a way to finagle my way into Mississauga’s BOT (that’s short for Board of Trade, as an FYI). I asked another young, Brampton entrepreneur who is currently a member of Brampton’s BOT whether or not he found value in an event that he attended a couple of days after the State of the City event; my inquiry was met with

the shrug emoji. This event really and truly didn’t persuade me to join a board of trade, but it did allow me to learn more about the great work that is happening all over the city, and for that, I was happy.

One thing that really ground my gears about the event was the lack of respect that the attendees had for most of the speakers, especially the MC, CEO Todd Letts. It reminded me of my days during assembly at St. Edmund Campion, and that’s putting it mildly. I really enjoyed meeting Vanessa White, the current chair of Brampton BOT. I was introduced to her by the dope Clare Barnnett, Director Economic Development & Culture. The three of us gushed at Vanessa’s beautiful green dress, and talked about the pains of wearing panty hose and dealing with suits; both the item of clothing and the pish-posh people from Toronto.

I was really grateful for the work Chief Nishan, who was previously profiled within Toronto Caribbean Newspaper by Simone Jennifer Smith. It really touched my heart that the downtown Brampton core was getting a mini-police station. I travel and work in Downtown Brampton every day, and having more police presence is definitely welcomed. What really warmed my heart was hearing about how they were testing out a new program that paired officers with mental health professionals to be able to assist the police force with diagnosing whether a situation required police attention, or needed the help of a medical professional instead.

I was also really pleased to hear about council’s decision to call a health crisis in Brampton. A few weeks ago, many took to Facebook to encourage Brampton residents to take a drive down to Georgetown’s hospital, if they felt that they needed emergency health help. It was good to hear that Premier Ford has heard the call of the council, and is “working” and doing something about the situation, which is truly a crisis.

Overall, I think that Mayor Brown and the team at City Council are doing their best to solve the problems and issues that the city of Brampton is facing.

Vanessa’s address was focused on the word momentum, and I feel like Brampton is definitely making moves in making itself a city of the future.

FUN

Wednesday, February 19, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 39

WEEK OF FEBRUARY 16 TO FEBRUARY 22 2020

ARIES

The luckiest signs this week: ARIES, AQUARIUS AND PISCES

You’ll be offered the oppor­tunity to travel with a group. If you’re in a relationship, you’ll feel especially romantic this week. Single?

Someone who’s interested in you could make their feelings known in a rather impressive way.

TAURUS

You may experience a whole range of emotions this week. You’ll be inspired to take a trip that will guarantee relax­ation and a way to find men­tal and physical balance.

PUZZLE NO. 703 ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 703

HOW TO PLAY :

GEMINI

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.

Someone close to you may make a declaration of love that will leave you confused. At work, you’ll organize a meeting or event that’s better atten­ded than expected.

CANCER

Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column, or 3x3 box.

Take the time to finish a task that you started and haven’t yet finished. You’ll also find something that will consider­ably improve your health.

LEO

You may be under a lot of pres­s ure at work and will have to work harder than usual to finalize an agreement or sign a contract. You’ll start to ex­e rcise in order to improve your health.

PUZZLE NO. 966 46. Per 47. Nature’s building block 48. ____ and flow 51. Yodeler’s feedback 52. Tripped 53. Soap ingredient 54. Cattail, e.g.

55. Waiter’s aid 56. Although DOWN

ACROSS

1. Hold title to 4. Difficulty 8. Impact sound 12. Low grade 13. Unconnected 14. Dry, as dishes 15. Dawn drops 16. Bad 17. Strong metal

18. Hot vapor 20. Broker 21. Pancake topping 23. Rainbow shape 25. Owl’s cry 26. Think ahead 27. Heartbreaking 30. Excite 32. Bun seed

34. Ruby, for one 35. ____ browns (potatoes) 37. Neck and neck 38. Question 39. University officials 40. Cheeky 44. Serving perfectly

1. Uncanny 2. Very tiny 3. Mary Richards’s office 4. Slumber 5. Bossa ____ 6. “____ House” 7. Hair-care goo 8. Branch 9. Charter 10. At the summit of 11. Fender imperfection 19. Ballet dancer’s skirt 20. Teen affliction 21. Type of rug 22. Past years

24. Foolhardy 26. Black-eyed veggies 27. Fiercely 28. Congregation’s reply 29. Hibernates 31. Former ruler of Iran 33. Visualized 36. Ice Capades member 39. Faintly

40. Brewed drink 41. Run like mad 42. Tooth pain 43. Not barefoot 45. Soda flavoring 47. Astern 49. Quick farewell 50. Play the ponies

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 966

VIRGO

You’ll spend a lot of time at the office and your hard work will be rewarded with a pro­motion. You’ll spontaneously decide to invest in a new hobby or sport that you’ve developed a passion for.

LIBRA

You won’t keep your opinions to yourself, even if you face some criticism for them. Try to be more tactful in the future. You’ll plan a romantic activity to enjoy with your partner.

SCORPIO

More and more, you want to become a homeowner. Before the week is over, you’ll find something that works for your family and fits your budget.

SAGITTARIUS

You’ll probably play taxi this week, or at least spend a lot of time on the road. You may also renegotiate your con­tracts with certain service providers.

CAPRICORN

The winter blues will be in full effect this week, and nothing beats them better than some physical activity. You may dis­cover a new winter sport.

AQUARIUS

You’ll feel more tired than usual this week. All you need to regain your energy is a visit to your massage therapist or even your doctor’s office.

PISCES

Stress is the greatest scourge of the 21st century. There may be changes you can make in your life that will remedy the situation.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING

Meet Arvin This seven month old Angel was rushed to Hospital after he began to have trouble breathing. It was discovered that he suffered from a condition where very little blood was flowing to the lungs and there was not enough oxygenated blood circulating through his little body. Due to extremely low oxygen levels he was rushed into the operating room for emergency surgery where a shunt was placed to increase blood flow to his lungs. This saved his life. Due to his small size however, this temporary treatment would only allow him to survivelong enough to undergo future surgeries. After a few days, he was able to breathe on his own and drank his first bottle of milk one week after surgery. In the next few years, Arvin will need one or two more surgeries before he is completely cured.

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PAGE 42

REAL ESTATE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Subliminal sales tactics for sellers JAY BRIJPAUL brijpaul@carib101.com

REAL ESTATE PRO

The fear of loss is one of the greatest fears.

Losing a loved one is very emotional and is the same sort of emotion felt when a buyer is about to lose the home they love. Limited supply and high demands for housing trigger a fear of loss and start bidding frenzies.

Selling is all psychology; we must tap into a buyer’s emotions. Enough positive responses create an emotional reaction while a few negative responses create a logical decision.

We buy emotionally and then justify our purchase with logic. To get the best price we must trigger a positive emotional response.

Sales are subliminal, arousing emotions from the buyer through their feelings, their eyes, nose, ears and taste buds.

Our eyes love light and that’s why at

the casinos, when someone wins, there are flashing lights! Clean all your light fixtures and replace the bulbs with LED. Think “candle light dinners.” It is best to use warm lighting instead of white to trigger a feeling of love.

Open the blinds and clean the windows so that our eyes can see out. In the “eyes mind”, the home appears larger and less intimidating but with heavy blinds the eyes cannot see outside, creating an emotional response of fear. Reduce furniture to a minimum. Mirrors placed strategically on the walls create an impression of more space and on a subliminal level, the buyers can see the most loved person in the world—themselves!

Our nose hates bad odors. Once a buyer enters the front door, what they smell will cause a pleasant or unpleasant experience. Avoid keeping a smelly shoe rack near the front door and refrain from cooking certain dishes or restrict your cooking time for the late night. The nose loves neutral scents like fresh air. Plugins with high perfume content is noticeable—go for a more natural aroma. Remove garbage bins and store them in the shed or at the back of the home. There they will be out of sight and will not smell.

One of the greatest turnoffs in sales is a stinky toilet. Clean, remove mats, clear countertops,

pull shower curtains to one side and remove the garbage bins. Always keep the lids on the toilet seat down so that no one can see inside. Baking powder and vinegar are amazing odor busters. Everyone loves the smell of fresh baked bread. The smell can linger for hours in a home, so it’s a great time to enjoy fresh baked croissants.

Our ears love silence or soft music.

The trick is to play soft music at low volume, appealing to the subliminal mind. The sounds of nature are appealing such as waves crashing on the shores and the call of song birds in the background. Keep the home warm in winter and light the fireplace because it’s a good welcome from the cold. Buyers will spend more time in the home as well. Always leave clean towels near the front door so that once the buyers remove their shoes, they can step on something fresh.

Appealing to the taste buds starts at the front door with a fresh bowl of mints.

Our reaction is to pop one in our mouth, triggering a pleasant response. The team for the taste buds should be at different places in the home. The kitchen counters should be bare.

Fresh fruits on the kitchen table appeal to the eyes, nose and taste buds— a bowl of fresh lemons will cause salivation. Avoid using any-

thing fake because subliminally, the mind knows. I remember assisting one client to declutter their main floor and we moved the coffee table to the basement with two chairs and a chest board all set for the next game. At one corner, we arranged some glasses, a few bottles of wine and some lovely snacks. The aim is to provoke enough positive responses to establish an emotional connection. Once that is achieved, it’s time to work on creating a sense of loss.

To do this, it is best to set the asking price slightly lower than the market price. A lower price is like a magnet that will attracts more buyers. It is a device that creates a fear of loss. In psychology, we created a “carrot and stick” system where the buyers really want the home and by the stick, the fear of losing it to other buyers. Always allow adequate time before looking at offers. Expose the property for at least a week but have a set offer presentation date and time. Let the buyers and their representatives meet in person at the home to review offers. The fear of loss is greatest when a buyer sits in anticipation waiting for all the other buyers to give their bids.

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PAGE 44

FINANCE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

RRSP deadline is March 2nd FAZAAD BACCHUS fazaad@carib101.com

FINANCE SPECIALIST

Why is this date significant? Well it is directly related to the deadline date given every year regarding the first sixty days to make an RRSP contribution to help reduce your previous year’s tax burden. An RRSP is an approved plan by the government of Canada in which money can be saved and grow tax sheltered or tax deferred. It reduces your taxable income in the given year you make a contribution. For example if you earn $50,000 in a year and were to contribute $10,000 into your RRSP then your taxable income will be readjusted to $40,000 (meaning you will only pay taxes on $40,000) The higher your earnings the better an opportunity for you in reducing

your income taxes.

How much can you contribute to your RRSP? The first rule is that your maximum contribution is calculated as 18% of your earned salary in the previous year, with a capped limit for 2020 of $27,230.

Therefore if you earned $50,000 in 2019, your maximum contribution allowable is $9,000 which includes any contribution that you are making to your group registered savings plan. However if you examine your Notice of Assessment (NOA) you may notice that you may possibly have contribution room building up over the years which have not been utilized going back as far 1991. You are allowed to contribute as much as you can afford to, so long as you do not exceed your contribution room, there are penalties if you do.

During the years while you are investing, your money will be tax sheltered.

You will not receive a T-slip showing earnings or income on which you have to pay taxes. The money can be invested in mutual funds, stocks, bonds and other financial instruments etc. However when you start receiving payments or withdrawals from

your RRSP, it will be reported as income and taxes will be deducted from those payments. All the same, it is expected that the payments from your RRSP will come at a time when your employment income has stopped, therefore putting you in a much lower tax bracket.

If you get into financial difficulty along life’s path and cannot contribute anymore to your RRSP, you simply don’t have to, you just stop the payments. And what about if you are out of a job or sick and need to access some money? Well you certainly can do so from your RRSP, but remember it is reported as income and therefore taxable. Apart from financial difficulty, you can also use your RRSP to make a down payment or pay off the balance needed on a home under the Home Buyers Plan agreement. You do have to pay this back over 15 years though, however you do not have to start repayment in the year which you borrowed.

So don’t let this tax and RRSP season go by without thinking about how much tax you can save, and how much you can enhance your retirement.

PAR Whole Life Insurance – the basics ANDREW STEWART andrew@carib101.com

FAMILY ADVISOR

Knowing your options should be the first plan of action when it’s time to think about and purchase life insurance. You have two basic choices; term life insurance and permanent life insurance. Both protect you and your family but where it can get tricky is understanding the different features and how you can apply them to your individual policy.

Hi, my name is Andrew and in today’s article I will be focusing on permanent life insurance, but more specifically participating whole life and the basics.

PAR whole life insurance gives you more security because it’s yours for life. Once in place, you’re the only one who can cancel the contract or lose it by not paying your premiums. Whatever amount you buy it’s guaranteed and your payments won’t go up, no matter your age. It not only provides

lifelong protection, but it’s another way to grow your wealth through tax advantages and potential dividends.

First and foremost it’s life insurance. So you must apply for and be healthy enough to qualify. When you die your family, business or charity receives a tax-free payout also called a death benefit. The real exciting part about PAR whole life is that it allows you to also grow your wealth. Over time, your life insurance policy builds cash value. You can access these funds in five different ways, which you can use while you’re alive to cover any financial need like emergencies, funding children’s education, purchasing a home even paying for a wedding.

How does the policy build cash value? When you purchase participating life insurance, you share in profits of the participating account with everyone else who owns a participating whole life policy within that same insurance company.

Each year, you may receive what’s called a policy owner dividend. Dividends aren’t guaranteed, but once they’re paid to your policy, they are vested and you can never lose them. With these dividends, you can buy additional coverage that earns more dividends and cash value, reduce (or even stop) premium payments, take your dividends in cash or put them in a side account

that will earn interest for easy access.

Let’s talk about the participating account, it is the main engine of any participating whole life policy and having an understanding of how it works is beneficial.

1. You and other policyholders pay premiums that go into the participating account.

2. The carriers manage those premiums and earn investment returns to meet the guarantees and commitments now and in the future.

3. From the account expenses, taxes, policy owner withdrawals, loans and insurance payouts to beneficiaries are paid.

4. Interest from loans go into the account.

5. When earnings exceed what is needed you may share in these earnings and are distributed a policy owner dividend.

Okay, so you now have an understanding of the engine. How much does it cost and what are the payment options? Typically more expensive than term insurance and you have payment options to fully pay your policy in 8 years, 10 years, 20 years or lifetime.

Embrace today so you are set up for tomorrow.

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SPORTS 12th Man of OCC’s 2020 U19 World Cup Team announced

PAGE 46

KAYLA KARIM

kayla@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

It was released by Cricket Canada earlier this week that 18 year old Akhil Kumar has reached a major milestone in the U19 tournament.

Canada’s Akhil Kumar has been named as the 12th Man on the ICC’s 2020 U19 World Cup Team of the Tournament.

The South Africa hosted three-week long competition reached its climax on Sunday February 9th, with Bangladesh U19 emerging victors over the previously heavily favored India. Bangladesh U19 won the rain affected final, chasing down India’s 177 to win by three wickets by the DLS method.

The official team of the tournament features representatives from six sides, with three players from Bangladesh and runner-up India, two from Afghanistan and the West Indies and one from Sri Lanka.

It is skippered by Bangladesh captain Akbar Ali and includes India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal who was also adjudged to be the player of the tournament. An adjudication panel of five, which was comprised of commentators Ian Bishop, Rohan Gavaskar and Natalie Germanos, ESPN Cricinfo Correspondent Sreshth Shah and ICC Representative Mary Godbeer, selected both the team and player of the tournament.

ICC U19 Cricket World Cup Team Of The Tournament (in batting order): • Yashasvi Jaiswal - India • Ibrahim Zadran – Afghanistan • Ravindu Rasantha – Sri Lanka • Mahmudul Hasan Joy – Bangladesh • Shahadat Hossain – Bangladesh • Nyeem Young – West Indies • Akbar Ali – Bangladesh (WK, Captain) • Shafiqullah Ghafari – Afghanistan • Ravi Bishnoi – India • Kartik Tyagi – India • Jayden Seales – West Indies • 12th man: Akil Kumar – Canada At only 18 years old Kumar is a right hand batter and a right-arm bowler where the Canada U19 team was his first major team that he was a part of. In the tournament, he was Canada’s most dependable batsman and in the official fantasy cricket team, Kumar had the most points entering the final.

Kumar shined his light throuout Canada’s campagin, which resulted in a 13th place finish from among the 16 competing countries. Kumar captured 16 wickets at an average of 15.37 from the five matches he played during the tournament at the end of which he was ranked as the third highest wickettaker, just below Afghanistan’s Shafiqullah Ghafari who took the same number of wickets (16) at a much lower average (7.0).

India’s Ravi Bishnoi topped the standings as the tournament’s highest wicket-taker, capturing 17 wickets in 6 matches at an average of 10.64. Kumar’s figures of 6-46 in Canada’s Plate Championship victory over Japan were also the second best by a bowler in the entire tournament, marginally behind Shafiquallah Ghafari’s return of 6-16 for Afghanistan in their match against tournament hosts and eventual quarter finalists South Africa.

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 19, 2020

UFC Champion defends her titleValentina “Bullet” Shevchenko defeats yet another challenger MARCEL MARIAK marcel@carib101.com

TC JUNIOR REPORTER

The main event of UFC 247 on February 8th Jon “Bones” Jones (Light-Heavyweight Champion) v. Dominick Reyes was not a pleasant bout to watch. It was an extremely underwhelming result to a highly anticipated challenge for the title of UFC lightheavyweight champion and left many fans disappointed and genuinely confused as to who actually won the fight. Fight fans were expecting an action-packed showdown between two relentless strikers, but instead got five rounds of fighting which consisted of mostly jumping in circles and failed takedown attempts. When the judges gave Jones the win by unanimous decision, people in the martial arts community were left wondering what exactly Jones did to deserve the win; with many accusing the UFC of being biased towards the defending champion.

Luckily, the co-main event, Valentina “Bullet” Shevchenko v. Katlyn “Blonde Fighter” Chookagian was a much more entertaining and action-packed battle.

Shevchenko, the defending women’s flyweight champion entered the challenge from Chookagian as an overwhelming favourite. With –#### betting odds, Shevchenko was expected to decimate her opponent.

In the lead-up to the fight, it became clear that Chookagian was no match for Valentina Shevchenko. There’s no doubt that Chookagian, with an almost perfect 13-2 record before the fight, is an impressive athlete and capable fighter. Unfortunately, almost all of her wins have been via judge’s decision, and the chances of her being able to hold her ground for five rounds against one of the best strikers in the UFC was slim.

Valentina Shevchenko, on the other hand, is regarded as one of the best martial artists in the world. She is a K1 Kick-

boxing, Muay Thai, and UFC champion, as well as an extremely impressive grappler.

Shevchenko’s most notable attribute as a fighter is her blinding speed. Nicknamed “Bullet,” Valentina certainly lives up to her alias. Her speed and agility are unmatched in the UFC, and she’s capable of throwing an entire combination of strikes before her opponent has any chance to react. As a result, the question going into the fight wasn’t whether or not Shevchenko would win, but how fast.

From the starting bell, it became clear that Chookagian was out of her depth.

She looked tense, nervous, and flinched at almost every one of Shevchenko’s movements. Valentina, on the other hand, was cool, collected, and very confident in her abilities. She quickly analyzed her opponent’s nervousness and overwhelmed her with strikes throughout the fight. Valentina landed an elbow at the end of the first round which opened up a bad cut on her opponent’s head and spelt the beginning of the end for Chookagian. Throughout the fight, Shevchenko landed more than double the strikes her opponent did, as well as securing three takedowns. The fight ended near the end of the third round with Valentina taking down her opponent and finishing her with a brutal ground-and-pound attack.

During the post-fight press conference, Valentina looked as fresh as a daisy, with barely any bruises to suggest that she had been in a UFC fight only hours prior.

Valentina told the press that she felt extremely confident during the fight and had no doubt she would win. “After cutting her with an elbow in the first round, I knew the fight wouldn’t last five rounds,” commented Valentina, “I was just looking for the best way to finish the fight.”

With another impressive title defence in the books for Valentina, she is quickly becoming an unbeatable champion. Although the women’s flyweight division is packed with talented fighters, few can match the speed, skill, resilience, and raw athleticism of Valentina Shevchenko.

Unfortunately, it might be a while before we see her fight again as Valentina was served with a six-month medical suspension due to undisclosed injuries after the fight.

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