Miss World 022614

CARIBBEAN NEWS, EVENTS, HEALTH, LIFESTYLE & MORE ONLINE: TORONTOCARIBBEAN.COM • TO ADVERTISE: 647-722-6298 • VOLUME 3 • ISSUE 1 • WEDNESDAY WEDNESDAY, AY Y, FEBR F FE FEBRUARY EB BR RUA U RY 26TH 2014

Miss World

Miss World Canada contestant puts Trinidad on the map EMILY SINGH/TORONTO CARIBBEAN

She’s smart, she’s beautiful and she wants to be your next Miss World Canada 2014!

Who is she? She is none other than 21 year old Rebekah Amanda Gosyne. Although she was born right here in Toronto she has that Caribbean blood running through her veins with both of her parents hailing from Trinidad.

A dedicated hopeful for the next Miss World Canada, Gosyne currently attends York University where she is double majoring in psychology, human rights and equity studies. Her love for psychology stemmed from a fascination with the human mind and wanted to learn how she could help people tangibly through means such as counseling for example. Whilst pursuing psychology she took a human

rights course which ch fueled her already burning passion forr helping people.

Gosyne has gone beyond learning about helping ping others. She had stepped out into o the community and volunteered her er time to truly make a difference.. As an active member of her church urch she participates in outreach ch programs such as volunteering ing in soup kitchens and doing ng sandwich runs in downtown wn Toronto.

Also adding to herr volunteerism is her work with the Salvation Army Food Bank, UNICEF and Amnesty International to name a few. ed On Page 3 Continued

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

A tribute to Bob Marley for Black History Month

Ebony Narpatty TC Reporter

Cherida, half Guyanese and half Antiguan, is currently a

student working on her masters in Environmental Studies on sustainable tourism in Antigua. In her spare time she enjoys nature walks with her dog, the gym, movies and fashion.

Photo Courtesy: www.fashionstudio7mag.com

LADIES! You could be featured in our next edition! To enter, send photos to info@torontocaribbean.com

I am aware that black history month is almost over but I guess it is better to be late to write on this topic rather than to never write about this important focus. There are many persons of black heritage on this earth that live or that have lived a life that leads on like a legacy and has achieved greatness through human rights or breaking through different kinds of oppression that existed or still does on this earth. Such persons can be named as: Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela, Rosa Parks, Barack Obama, and many others that I can go on forever naming and listing their efforts made to move mountains, break boundaries and fight for human rights. I would like to give my tribute this black history month 2014 to no other than the man that shines out like a star, was regarded as a prophet, seen as a role model in society till today, the greatest man that ever walked this earth after Christ, A man with words of wisdom, hats off to no other than Bob Marley.

According to this book I borrowed from the Toronto Public Library named “Reggae Explosion – The Story of Jamaican Music,” by Chris Salewicz, Adrian Boot and Chris Blackwell, I will quote the Marley legacy. “The baby boy was born at around 2:30 on the Wednesday morning of 6th February 1945. He weighed seven pounds, four ounces and the name he was given was Nesta Robert Marley, the Robert at the request of Norval, his white father. At the age of five Nesta was taken away from his birth place of Nine Miles in the Parish of St. Ann’s by his father: they moved to Kingston where his

father to all intents and purposes deserted him, placing his son in the care of a woman who lived downtown. After a year Cedella, his mother, discovered where Nesta was living and brought him back from Kingston.

Before his sojourn in the capital, Nesta had displayed a gift as a palm reader. When a woman back at Nine Miles asked the boy to read her hand, he shook his head. “No,” said Nesta, “I’m not reading no more hand: I’m singing now.” “He had these two little sticks,” Cedella recalls. “He started knocking them with his fists in this rhythmical way and singing this old Jamaican song: ‘Hey Mr., Won’t you touch me potato / Touch me yam, punking tomato / All you do is King Love, King Love / Ain’t you tired of squeeze up, squeeze up / Hey Mr., won’t you touch me potato / Touch me yam, punking potato.’

“And it just made the woman feel so good, and she gave him two or three pennies. That was the first time he talked about music.”

Soon after, Cedella herself moved to Kingston, returning to see her son at weekends.”

(Reggae Explosion, pg. 140-141) Bob Marley (Nesta) had a passion for music and met local musician Joe Higgs where he saw a door was opening towards his music career when he moved to live in Trench town, Kingston a ghetto area and made friends with some people he planned on forming a band with. Joe Higgs coached 15 year old Bob and his friend Bunny Livingston in the art of harmonising and encouraged Bob to sing continuously to strengthen his voice. At one of the practice sessions he then met Peter Tosh. Joe Higgs then formed a musical group with the three boys including Junior Braithwaite and two back vocalists Beverley Kelso and Cherry Smith. The teenagers were known as “Wailing Rude Boys and then Wailing Wailers” After practicing endlessly and loving music more and more each day, Bob Marley broadened his horizons.

Continued On Page 11

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Miss World Canada Emily Singh TC Reporter Continued From Page 1 -- When I asked what winning Miss World Canada would mean to her Gosyne’s answer was simple and heartwarming.

“The issue that I’m really zeroing in on is human trafficking so being able to win this title and have the platform to raise awareness and to be in a position where I would have the resources to make a tangible difference to have that tangible factor. I have the passion for the issue in my heart but to be given the resources, the platform, the voice and the presence to be heard and make a difference and help I think that in itself would be the greatest reward.

Working and attending university

doesn’t stop determined Gosyne from sharing her platform and planning fundraising events all in preparation for the upcoming pageant.

“It’s really exciting to even talk to people and as I tell them what my platform is and what I’m fundraising for people are really excited and willing to help out.” Said Gosyne Along with her mother whom Gosyne says is her biggest supporter we would like to extend our best wishes to Rebekah on her journey through this pageant.

Voting for Rebekah (People’s Choice Award): 1) Like Rebekah’s Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/RebekahGosyne-Miss-World-Canada-2014-Delegate/290307167783787 2) Hit “Vote” under Rebekah’s profile on the Miss World Canada website (should be up by the end of this week) http://www.missworldcanada.com/

Guyana welcomes 44th anniversary with symbolic 21-gun salute GUYANA -- Guyana’s symbol of nationhood, the Golden Arrowhead, was early Saturday hoisted in the forecourt of the Public Buildings in the presence of the Commander-in-Chief, President Donald Ramotar, and other military top brass to mark 44 years of nationhood.

Also present was Prime Minister, Mr Samuel Hinds. The standard was raised by a Flag Ensign to the accompaniment of the ceremonial 21-gun salute as members of the Cabinet, the diplomatic corps and the public observed the sombre tradition.

Preceding the flagraising was the arrival of the Prime Minister, Mr Samuel Hinds, who was accorded a general salute, followed by the President’s arrival, the Presidential salute and the Inspection of the Guard of Honour.

A total of 104 ranks, along with six officers, led by Parade Commander Dale De Mendonca, drawn from the Joint Services, formed the honour guard for the proceedings.

Pandit Jagmohan Persaud, Imam Shaik Zakir Khan and Pastor Wendell Jeffrey offered prayers on behalf of the Hindu, Christian and Muslim communities, while the Guyana Police Force band corps and choir, directed by Major Robert Burns, led the audience in rendition of national songs and the National Anthem.

Guyana gained Republican status on February 23, 1970, close to four years after it achieved independence. (Guyana Chronicle)

Wednesday, February 26, 2014

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Wednesday, February 26, 2014

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

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CAL to airlift Trinis from Venezuela TRINIDAD -- The Government is preparing a contingency plan involving Caribbean Airlines to evacuate any T&T nationals and staff of this country’s Caracas Embassy out of strife-torn Venezuela if the situation there deteriorates further, acting Foreign Affairs Minister Roodal Moonilal said Monday.

Moonilal told the T&T Guardian he has been talking with National Security Minister Gary Griffith and Finance Minister Larry Howai, the line minister for CAL, about the plan, in case violence in Venezuela—going on for more than a week—becomes worse.

Clashes have been taking place since February 12 between students and state agencies, as well as between supporters of Venezuelan opposition groups and those of President Nicholas Maduro. Most recently, paratroopers were dispatched to the state of Tachira where violent student protests were reported.

Late Saturday T&T’s Foreign Affairs Ministry issued a statement assuring that all of the six T&T staff at its Caracas embassy were safe and arrangements were being made to secure them. It also said the embassy’s hours were being reduced to deal with the situation in Caracas and an evacuation plan was on the table. Moonilal said Monday: “We’re monitoring the situation very closely via Ambassador Anthony Edghill in Caracas. I’m getting reports every 12 hours.

“After I received a report on the situation last Saturday I talked with Ministers Griffith and Howai to have plans in place to evacuate T&T nationals including our embassy staff, via CAL in case the situation worsens.”

He said the Government is now checking to see if there were any T&T holidaymakers or businessmen visiting Venezuela. He said he didn’t think the situation was bad enough for the Government to tell them to cut short their plans and leave Venezuela.

However, Moonilal urged them to monitor the situation carefully and see if they wanted to return home. He advised them to exercise precautions while in that country.

Moonilal said the situation in Venezuela—seven miles across the Gulf from T&T—was getting difficult and the Government hoped Venezuelan authorities and the people would resolve their matters. He said emergency airlift would depend on the number of people to be returned home and availability of flights. An assessment of those in need would be done if the situation required evacuation.

He said acting Prime Minister Errol McLeod has been briefed on the situation and Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar,

who left for China on Friday, was also being informed. Monday, Ambassador Edghill told the T&T Guardian the embassy had sought logistical support from the Government but “we also have an evacuation plan and we’re monitoring to see if certain things are triggered and if so we’ll respond.”

Edghill, who has been moving around various areas to ascertain the situation, said protests continue in pockets at cities all over Venezuela. The death toll by Monday was around ten, he added. Several wounded in earlier clashes have died. Deaths included a student who was “clotheslined” and almost decapitated when his motorcycle hit a clothesline strung across a street and his throat was slit by the line.

Monday’s protests went off relatively calmly however, Edghill said. Over the weekend, he said, several pro-Maduro demonstrations were mounted, first by female supporters, followed by senior citizens.

Edghill said embassy staff had been keeping tabs on T&T nationals working with foreign firms in Venezuela to ensure their safety. This included a number of T&T nationals contracted with Spanish energy company Repsol oil company. He said they are safe and some had ventured out to hotspot areas to see what was taking place He said there were also 14 T&T nationals working with a German company west of Caracas. “They too have been in contact with the T&T embassy,” he added.

Edghill said some T&T nationals were considering leaving Venezuela, but others were staying. Further protests continue this week, he said. Last week, Venezuelan Ambassador to T&T Coromoto Godoy accused extremist right wingers in Venezuela of an attempted coup and of several international media of encouraging it. She also accused private Venezuelan media of manipulating information.

Various TT-based Venezuelans, including Ida Hernandez, Marta Reyes, Yesenia Gonzales and others deny that, blaming Venezuelan authorities. Hernandez, who has been resident in T&T for more than 20 years, said she returned to Caracas recently to carry supplies for her family including her aunt, who is 100 years old and her uncle, 106.

She said: ”There’s no food, no milk, no toilet paper. They have to line up two hours for one migraine tablet, it’s $5,000 for a car battery and the line for that is miles long. People are throwing tear-gas and protesting all over. I had to take a boat, bus and ferry to reach Caracas—flights are scarce.”

Gonzales said Venezuela is in civil war and people would soon demand new presidential elections. (Trinidad Guardian)

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Twas fun galore, steeped in rich folklore,as Guyana turns 44 GUYANA -- THE biggest, ‘baddest’ and best musical bands in town came out ‘pon de road’ Saturday, and for some seven hours straight filled the air and quaked the streets with steady, pulsating rhythms along the Mashramani parade route.

From lower Church Street in Cummingsburg to the National Park at Thomas Lands, Georgetown, thousands of revellers loosened up, threw inhibition to the wind, and got onto, into, and behind the bands to ‘Mash down town’ in inimitable Guyanese style.

It was the celebration of Guyana’s popular Costume Band and Float Parade, the Number One annual Mashramani Day activity, held this year under the theme, “Cultural Folklore: Celebrating 44”.

Costume Bands ‘took to de road’ from 10:00hrs, each charting the course for hundreds of revellers who proudly displayed uniquely designed costumes in rampant colour and audacious glitter as they depicted scenarios chosen by individual competing entities but in keeping with the national theme.

There were revellers of all hues and configurations (contours) displaying all manner of shapes and sizes as they ‘strutted their stuff’ in wild abandon, evidently unmindful of what their skimpy costumes revealed.

So reverberating was this infectious mood that, after a while, even the traffic lights along the route ceased to change colour and began pulsating in bright red to the beat of the powerful music sets.

And, as usual, tens of thousands of resident and visiting Guyanese and tourists

to the country lined the parade route in true picnic style, their attention captivated by the revelry, especially along upper Church Street and on Irving and Vlissengen roads, where the hub of the attendant celebrations took place.

It was an admirable display of true Guyanese patriotism to see folks brave the sun’s sweltering heat in their determination to participate in, or simply witness the costume band and float parade; be involved in the ubiquitous picnics on the grass verges; or indulge in whatever other activities formed part of the cultural festivities of this auspicious day.

What it simply implied was that neither rain nor sun, cold nor heat, good times nor bad times, or whatever negative or adverse circumstance confronting the Guyanese nation could make the Guyanese nation not celebrate its national occasions, secure in the confidence that “we can work it out and be overcomers”.

Euphoria No less than 35 floats came out on the road to regale the delighted and euphoric crowds.

Quite a few of them (such as Banks DIH) did not go into the National Park to be judged, because they simply wanted to add to the national revelry whilst they participated along the parade route. They headed back to their starting points, where they “performed” for the remainder of the day.

Of the competing bands, the crowd’s favourite was clearly DICICEL, proudly celebrating seven years in Guyana, and presenting a fusion of colour and

glitter in a 400-strong band of Arabian and Egyptian knights (revellers), who were minimally clad in pink and wore gold headwear that portrayed a theme from “The Arabian Knights”.

The band, carried by the Arabian Queen, also portrayed Alladin carrying the Magic Carpet, and Kijana Lewis carrying the golden Genie’s Lamp, symbolic of the golden intentions DIGICEL has for the Guyanese people, just waiting to be revealed with the passing of the Telecommunications Act. “It could be likened to uttering the magical term, ‘Open Sesamie’. At the moment, we are stifled and can only offer a limited range of the vast amount of services on which we have our fingertips. So what we are calling for is telecommunications liberalization so that the Genie’s lamp can begin to churn out services to the people,” a DIGICEL representative said.

The costumes were professionally designed, from headwear to footwear. They were par excellence, and the revellers modelled them with enviable grace and ease. And DIGICEL, living up to its slogan, “The Bigger, Better Network”, somehow managed to amass a sizeable group of Amazonian women who did the band justice as they energetically gyrated without showing the slightest sign of becoming tired.

It was amazing to see the kind of goodwill and partnerships that Mash activities have been able to foster among erstwhile competing entities. Incredibly, the DIGICEL Costume Band and parade assembled and got itself organized outside the GT&T Church

Street offices; some revellers even took shelter under the GT&T telephone booth at the roadside as they awaited the commencement signal; and coincidentally, the DJ on the DIGICEL band belted out Charlene Blackman’s song, “Gie Dem Mo’ Fe Talk”.

Crowd favourites Other crowd favourites were the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports’ 300-strong presentation; the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs’ “Spirit of the Rainforest”; Region Three’s “Caressing the River, Romancing the Fort, Rebirthing Tourism”; Region Four’s “Agriculture, Industry and Commerce and Village Life”; Region Six’s “Heartbeat of Preserving Berbicians/Guyanese Cultural Identity”; Region Ten’s “Folktubia”; and the Health Ministry’s costume band which depicted Makonima taking precautionary measures against becoming infected with various lurking diseases.

As for Banks DIH, which this year participated under the slogan “Friends of Banks”, a mobile party atmosphere was promoted, as the company invested heavily in the show and catered for about 600 revellers.

The route from Vlissengen Road to the National Park was virtually converted into a gigantic picnic ground, as vendors manning scores of booths offered for sale some of the most delectable cuisine, snacks, beverages of various kinds, games, music, and art and craft.

It was fun galore as Guyana, in national solidarity, highlighted her cultural folklore in celebrating 44. (Guyana Chronicle)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Wednesday, February 26, 2014

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Gangs, gays, ganja and gender - Jamaica Police Commissioner Ellington urges Senate to follow Lower House in passing Anti-Gang Bill JAMAICA -- Police Commissioner Owen Ellington has welcomed the passage of the Criminal Justice (Suppression of Criminal Organisations) Act, popularly called the Anti- Gang Bill, by the House of Representatives, and urged the Senate to follow suit.

fast-track the discussions we were having with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

We are going to be seeking guidance from the Attorney General’s Office to develop our training programme, our prosecutions investigations manual; identifying the various offences that are created by this statute, developing points to prove those offences so that when our investigators are doing investigative work they will know the points that have to be covered by facts or good evidence that can stand up in a court of law,” said Ellington.

“I am very encouraged by this movement of the Bill through the Lower House and I am just anticipating its passage through the Upper House (Senate), so that very shortly we can get this tool,” Ellington said a day after the Bill sailed through the House of Representatives with the full support of the Opposition last Tuesday.

“We are going to have to ramp up our internal training now. We are developing an internal protocol to require certain persons who are already trained and assigned to our proactive investigations teams in each division to be the lead on investigations of crimes under this law. At the headquarters level, it’s the Organised Crime Investigations Division which will have the lead,” he said.

It was not clear yesterday when the Senate would debate the Bill, but no one is expecting any obstacles to its passage on its way to becoming law when the governor general gives his assent, because of the clear bipartisan support.

Ellington made his comments in an interview with the Jamaica Observer in which he addressed issues dealing with gangs, gays, ganja and gender in the police force, alleged extra-judicial killings as well as calls for his resignation.

The full report of the interview will be published Wednesday, February 26, 2014 in the Observer.

He described the anti-gang law as a piece of legislation that looks at organised crime in all its elements: the formation of criminal groups, syndicates or gangs; recruitment into these; the criminal enterprises in which they engage; the methods that they use to conceal their crime and illgotten gains; the faciliators that they co-op, such as corrupt police persons, corrupt lawyers, corrupt accountants, bankers, real estate developers — “all the individuals who combine efforts in one way or the other to make criminal

The police commissioner noted that the Jamaica Constabulary Force had been recruiting and training staff in anticipation of the law. enterprises flourish and to escape the detection of law enforcement”.

“Gangs are just one component of the targets of the Bill. Why? Because the gangs are the violence producers. Organised crime syndicates who smuggle guns — the gangs are their primary markets.

Organised syndicates who smuggle ammunition — the gangs are their primary markets. Organised syndicates who engage in contract killings,

kidnappings, etc — the gangs are their operational elements. Organised crime syndicates who engage in extortion/protection rackets — it is the gangs that they engage to intimidate and to kill and to enforce that code of silence at street level.

So you could never have a law targeting organised crime which does not pay attention to gangs as well. “It’s needed, it will make a difference.

What we now have to do — and we have been tracking this all along — we will now have to

“We are recruiting lawyers into the organisation. We have quite a number of police officers who are either completing law degrees or in law school now. They are coming back. They are going to be put through our high potential detective training programme. They are going into the Criminal Investigations Branch because we believe that these complex investigations require skills beyond what can be normally taught at the police training college,” he added. (Jamaica Observer)

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Jack Warner: No returning to PP TRINIDAD -- While ILP leader Jack Warner is willing to have grand consensus talks with the COP, particularly on marginal seats, he has no plans to discuss any return to the PP coalition. “COP cannot be the glue to put the broken Humpty Dumpty of the PP back together again,” Warner said Sunday.

Warner was commenting on talks with COP vice chairman Nicole Dyer Griffith which started last Friday after COP leader Prakash Ramadhar sanctioned a return to COP’s 2009 grand consensus plan to dialogue with various groups, including parties. COP initiated the grand consensus in 2009 under Winston Dookeran’s leadership and had obtained consensus with NGOs and political parties, including NJAC and TOP, leading to the 2010 PP coalition.

A suggestion to restart dialogue with all bodies was made by a member at COP’s National Council recently. COP’s Ramadhar last Friday said he had sanctioned the move, which was his prerogative as political leader, since COP’s campaign had begun and the party was preparing its next manifesto. He said that that required COP to meet stakeholders, including political parties..

“We’re issuing an invitation to all and that’ll certainly include ILP. This is about T&T’s development. We want to hear everyone…they have a space as party, it’s not about only ILP but all stakeholders,” said Ramadhar when asked how this might work after a history of PP/ILP bitterness.

On whether the consensus talks would mend broken political fences, Ramadhar said much

of what has gone wrong in society is due to failed or distorted communication: “We need clarity on what people say, what they want and how to deliver that.”

Ramadhar said he assigned DyerGriffith to work out consensus mechanics.

Sunday Dyer-Griffith said the plan required discussions with all groups, NGOs and parties “and was not about personalities.” She said meetings will begin after Carnival since COP is working with a short time frame.

Warner, commenting Sunday, said he met Dyer-Griffith for initial talks last Friday at his office.

“I gave her the assurance we’re prepared to talk to COP, especially as far as marginal seats are concerned. We’ll meet again after Carnival to discuss rules and terms of reference for any future political accord.

“But as for PP, any return talk isn’t on the cards and that’s not something we’ll be talking to COP on. The PP’s irretrievably broken like Humpty Dumpty and neither the COP or anyone can put them back on the wall.

Warner added: “The quicker COP delinks from the PP and stands up for what is right it’s the better for what remains of their party. We’ll talk to anybody to rid T&T of corruption and vindictiveness.” Asked if the ILP would at all return to the PP, or talk with parties about it, Warner said: “I don’t know what the future holds but ILP won’t sacrifice its integrity on the alter of accommodation to T&T’s detriment. I don’t care what it costs, we can’t have quick fixes or instant successes.

“The Fyzabad Accord on which

PP is based hasn’t worked and is irrelevant now, so that can’t be used again. The way to do things is have people sit down and work out serious alignments and know terms and conditions of management and rules and not after election, one man and his dog holding everything.” UNC deputy leader Roodal Moonilal commenting on COP’s move to talk to groups including the ILP, said in consensus building parties can talk to any group.

“If the COP wants to talk to parties that’s up to them. Their members, determine their policies and approaches,” Moonilal said. Other UNC officials said they saw COP’s consensus plan, as part of that party’s profile- strengthening moves for its July internal elections and not aimed at PP “restoration.” Some UNC MPs, including Winston Peters and Fuad Khan, continued to favour renewed unity in statements up to last week. Several others didn’t answer calls Sunday.

(Trinidad Guardian)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Bob Marley tribute Continued For Page 2 -- After meeting Derrick Morgan, now officially called Bob Marley instead of (Nesta) was linked up with producer Leslie Kong and recorded his first record ‘Judge Not’ at the Federal Studios in August 1962 around the same time Jamaica gained Independence. Ska music was in the era and Bob Marley made two others called “Terror” and “One cup of Coffee” were distributed by Kong but did not become beneficial. Despite the lack of achievement, Bob Marley at age 16 had serious intention of improvising his life in music. Clement ‘Coxsone’ Dodd the sound system man who just begun his own record label became acquainted with Bob Marley and his small musical group. Coxsone like what he heard from the audition of Bob and his friends and an agreement was made. The first recording session took places a few days later recording “I’m still waiting” and “It hurts to be alone”. (Reference: Reggae Explosion, the story of Jamaican music: Salewicz, Boot.

Pg142) Chris Blackwell was washed ashore in Jamaica as a teenager being boat wrecked and was saved by some Rastafarian men and grew up in Jamaica as a White Jamaican and realised his life would never be the same. In 1958 he started a small record label in Kingston producing records for himself called the “Island Records.” He was the successful manager of Jimmy Cliff and as soon as Cliff decided to leave the island, Bob Marley walked through the door at the right time and they started doing business together. Bob Marley and the Wailers were now to be born consisting of Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Bunny Livingston, Rita Marley, Marcia Griffiths and Judy Mowatt. Island Records produced songs such as ‘Catch a Fire’ which was also a London concert and completely sold out.

Bob Marley was getting into his groove of Reggae music and seeing success at the end of the day which made him to become eager to follow his goal to spread words of wisdom throughout the world, to make this world a better place for everyone to live on. He then recorded many more albums such as: Burnin and a Lootin,, Natty Dread, No Woman No Cry with various recording studios and appearing at many different countries in concert worldwide. He made endless Ska and Reggae music that have appeared or are to be found.

Chris Blackwell mentioned “What Bob Marley believed in and how he lived his life was something that had tremendous appeal for the Press. The Press had been dealing with the greatest time in the emergence of rock’n’roll and it was starting to quiet down.” Bob Marely agreed to perform at the “Smile Jamaica” concert that was scheduled for 5th December 1976 at Kingston’s National Heroes Park and aimed at bringing about unity into the atmosphere. To not stir any political interests Chris Blackwell advised Bob Marley not to allow it to be announced as a PNP event but to stage the show as yourself performing for Jamaica.

Bob Marley went back to Michael Manley to clarify the issue at hand and the poster now read for the entire Jamaica to see “Smile Jamaica – Concert presented by Bob Marley in association with the Cultural Department of the Government of Jamaica.” (Reference: Page 154) Bob Marley was a neutral man and did not want to cause any kind of political disturbances among himself and people. Instead he wanted everyone to unite and bring peace among themselves and to live in happiness.

The 1976 “Smile Jamaica” concert however did not bring about peace towards people as it was intended to. Instead JLP gunmen who entered the rehearsal area of Bob’s 56 Hope Road the night before the concert was scheduled. Bob was peeling an orange while his manager and Rita were present.

A stray bullet flew across Bob’s chest and lodged into his arm. Rita ran to start her car but was unable to as she suffered a shot near

her head. Bob Marley and Rita Marley were rushed to the hospital and miraculously recovered to perform on the stage the following evening in the ‘Smile Jamaica’ Concert. (Reggae Explosion, page 162) That is to show you in life that no one can stop something from happening if it was meant to be and for a good purpose. The 56 Hope Road residence of Bob Marley still stands today and is considered “The Bob Marley Museum” located in Kingston and dedicated to Bob Marley. It was also the home for Tuff Gong Record label which the wailers founded in 1970 according to the Bob Marley Museum Facebook page.

Another prominent concert that Bob Marley performed in and that will be remembered in history is the 1978 Peace Concert, Jamaica, when Bob Marley brought together Prime Minister Michael Manley and Edward Seaga, the opposition leader to hold hands and unite as one. Even though Bob Marley was against politics and the way it worked, he decided not to attack the Prime Minister and the leader of the opposition but instead bring them together. “I’m trying to say… Could we have, up here on stage the presence of Mr. Michael Manley and Mr. Edward Seaga? I just want to shake hands and show people that we’re gonna unite… We’ve gotta unite,” said Bob Marley, and then he held the two hands together of the opposing parties and made them unite as one.

(Reggae Explosion, 164-166). This beautiful act of unity will stay in the annals of history and will be remembered for years to come.

After this incident Tuff Gong world tour began where Bob Marley started meeting new people in an adventurous, interesting lifestyle.

There are some rare songs that were never exposed, not until now and maybe not even yet.

Such songs that are rare are: Columbus, If you don’t start you won’t end, one that was recently released on YouTube a few years ago written by Bob Marley, the song was named “She used to call me Dada” which was written for Cindy Breakspeare, former Miss World 1976 and mother of Damien Marley while he was married to Rita Marley. Bob was a Romeo and had children outside but still loved Rita and Cindy equally. Bob astonished many people though in a Santa Barbara concert where he performed and the large turnout made him become more popular with more fans.

Bob Marely was not just into music alone but had a hobby on the side i.e. playing soccer. He loved the sport so much that he confided with friends that he should have been a soccer player instead. In 1975 while playing soccer against another team, another player’s rusty running spikes slashed the toe of Bob Marley while playing in the Boy’s town recreational ground in Trench Town. He tried his best to nurse the foot on his own and with his daughter Cedella applying dressing and antiseptics to it. The condition of the toe got worse.

The doctor told him that the toe needed to be amputated because it had become contaminated and that infection could spread to his bloodstream. He was also warned about the risk of getting cancer but he felt he should get a second opinion. They did not support the removal of his toe. Instead they told him if he removed the toe it would ruin his music career. Time passed by and everyone forgot about the issue. Bob was busy performing on various stages with his worldwide tour, seeing different countries, meeting new faces until he collapsed and was rushed to a hospital where he was told that the cancer has spread throughout his body and he would need to go through radiation treatment. (Reggae Explosion, pg. 166) “Bob Marley’s funeral service was held in Kingston’s National Heroes Arena.

He had been given radiation treatment to fight cancer invading his body and as a result his dreadlocks had fallen out. Rita, his wife, had kept the locks and they were woven into a

wig which was placed on his head. Sharing Bob’s coffin with him were his worn copy of the Bible and his Gibson guitar.” (Reggae Explosion, page 168) On the day of his funeral, coincidentally, it has been said that the song Natural Mystic was being played and on the video of his funeral it shows an eagle leading the proceedings of the funeral, from the beginning to the end. The song Natural Mystic identifies the many aspects of life and was considered the best song to be played to follow the tone of the funeral setting. There’s more to write on father Bob Marley because his story is endless and interesting.

Some quotes I admire from Bob Marley are: “That until the basic human rights are equally guaranteed to all, without regard of race – Dis a War.” “None but ourselves can free our minds.” What I can recall from his songs were lyrics such as “Don’t live in mental slavery” meaning don’t ponder over things you cannot change. As he sang, “Don’t worry about a thing because every little thing is going to be alright.” Also I like his outlook on life on “Confrontation” that you must stand for your right and face your battle instead of run and hide. Another good one is “Don’t gain the world and lose your soul, wisdom is better than silver or gold.” I loved his positive vision of happiness that he would go out there and look for it if he can’t find it. Smile. Bob Marley strength was in his music to capture the attention of humanity. I would call Bob Marley a “Prophet” because I believe his undying knowledge, pure inspirational music and love towards people and their human rights is refreshing towards our minds and souls making us become better human beings by having a positive outlook on life. He was the hope for the people who lived oppressed lives that tomorrow will be a better day if you can stand up and make a change. I can be contacted at: ebonynarpatty@yahoo.com Here are some of Bob Marley’s song lyrics here. Read and find the true meanings. (www.azlyrics.com) “Slave driver, the table is turn, catch a fire, so you can get burn now… Every time I hear the crack of a whip, my blood runs cold.

I remember on the slave ship, how they brutalised the very souls. Today they say we are free, only to be chained in poverty. Good God, I think it’s illiteracy; it’s only a machine that makes money.”

“Wake up and live! Life is one big road with lots of sings, so when you riding through the ruts, don’t you complicate your mind. Flee from hate, mischief and jealousy!

Don’t bury your thoughts; put your vision to reality… Rise ye mighty people…There’s work to be done, so let’s do it a little by little: … We’re more than Sand on the seashore, we’re more than numbers… You live big today; tomorrow you buried in a casket.”

“Positive Vibration – If you get down and you quarrel everyday, you’re saying prayers to the devils, I say.”

“Could you be loved and be loved?

Don’t let them fool ya, or even try to school ya! … We got a mind of our own, so go to hell if what you’re thinking is not right! Don’t let them change ya… Or even rearrange ya…

We’ve got a life to live. Only the fittest of the fittest shall survive, stay alive! Eh!” “Survival -Some people got nothing; some people got hopes and dreams; some people got ways and means… Some people got facts and claims; some people got pride and shame; some people got the plots and schemes; some people got no aim it seems!

Some people put the best outside; some people keep the best inside.”

Well these are the words of wisdom from Bob Marley and this wraps up black history month. Take these valuable pearls, study them and use them wisely so your life can be shaped in the lifestyle it is bound to be.

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Mother of nine gets help, seeks a job JAMAICA -- The mother of nine in Gibraltar, St Ann, who had been struggling to take care of her children, received some well needed assistance recently when St Ann Inter-Agency Network for Transforming Social Services (SAINTSS) secured the help of several other agencies in St Ann to start a vegetable garden for her.

However, Imogene Lawrence is appealing for help until her garden begins to yield fruits.

“It still hard on me,” the mother who said she appreciated the effort of SAINTSS stated.

Imogene Lawrence’s family situation was highlighted in the Sunday Observer on September 15, 2013.

The 45-year-old mother had been struggling to provide for her children, five of whom are still in school. Lawrence had been experiencing difficulty in sending her children to school, one of whom will sit the Grade Six Achievement Test next month.

The Gibraltar community united recently to assist her by creating a food garden.

The family was identified by community members as needing assistance, due to economic hardship and nutritional challenges being faced.

The Call to Duty Project led by the Social Development Commission (SDC) was initiated to create a food garden that would satisfy the nutritional needs of her family with surplus to support the family economically.

Parish Manager of the SDC and

chairman of SAINTSS, Richardo Aiken said that the vegetable garden is one component of the intervention for the family. He said that steps are being taken to address the challenges that the family face.

“The vegetable garden is a part of the overall focus of the SDC to implement Local Economic Development Projects to improve the economic reality of communities. Secondly, there is a drive also through Jamaica 4H clubs and SDC to increase the consumption of nutritious locally grown vegetable to further improve educational outcomes, through the school gardening programme. Therefore, it is expected that Miss

Lawrence and her children can eat what was planted while further benefiting from the economic gains from sale of the items,” Aiken stated.

The project was a collaborative effort of the Gibraltar Development Area Committee (DAC) that provided the ground provisions, AgroGrace Jamaica provided fertiliser and seeds, while the Rural Agriculture Development Agency (RADA) provided pepper seedlings and training on maintenance of the garden to the family.

The St Ann chapter of the Jamaica Agricultural Society also contributed.

Represented at the project were

RADA, the Child Development Agency and the Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education.

Member of Parliament for South West St Ann, Keith Walford also provided support to the project through donations of seeds and by providing a hoe to Lawrence to be used in the maintenance of the garden.

The mother said that she expects the vegetable garden to help her. However, while she waits for the crops to grow, the struggles continue.

Lawrence, who has worked as a domestic helper, said that she is willing to work and is appealing to anyone who can provide her with employment, to assist. However, she cannot work far from her home, as she has to tend to her young children.

“A job would be a big help to me now,” she said.

Lawrence, who has been receiving assistance through PATH, said that some of the children have not received the benefits in recent times due to their frequent absence from school.

“Some of the children cut off true dem nah go school,” she explained.

She pointed out that the children in high school were affected mostly as it was more expensive for them to go to school, travelling outside of their home community.

SAINTSS is a group comprising over 22 agencies in St Ann which has been in existence since September 2009. (Jamaica Observer)

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Set to release another carnival rap up single, chromatics gets Angosturaʼs support and signs major endorsement deal Aba Luke Entertainment Though controversial at times, well known Trinidad and Tobago rapper, Richard ‘Chromatics’ Raj-Kumar knows the importance of understanding the business of music. That understanding of business has led to a recent agreement made with Angostura Trinidad Limited and its LLB brand. The ‘Carnival Rap Up’ singer is sitting pretty these days, having recently sealed the deal to be the official brand ambassador for the beveragesomething that many only dream of accomplishing. This is certainly a first for the local hip-hop fraternity, as never before has a local hip-hop artiste been given such an opportunity. Chromatics is elated and says he takes the task very seriously.

Admitting that he has been nurturing a relationship with Angostura since last year, Chromatics said he worked with the LLB brand during their ‘Lyrics Like A Boss’ campaign and with a tremendous response received from the public, and essentially noted by the Angostura team, the foundation was laid for what would eventually happen.

Last week, Angostura and the T&T hip hop heavyweight, along with his management team shook hands, cementing the endorsement deal of the LLB brand- something that will see Chromatics marketing the beverage to an urban, youthful market locally, across the Caribbean and even as far as Canada.

“I’m really happy to be working with Angostura. They assisted with the promotion of my Science of Colours Volume 2 mixtape last year and to date, the mixtape has been downloaded some 2000 times,” explained ‘Matics, as he’s often referred. He noted that Angostura is a company that promotes and

markets several of its brands across the Caribbean and even internationally, something he and his team at Highway Records are strong believers of.

Assuring that he will be living the LLB brand, Chromatics who is currently working on his Carnival Rap Up 2014 single, which is scheduled for release on March 9th, said he is thankful to Angostura Trinidad Limited for having the confidence in him to be the LLB brand ambassador. “Folks can look forward to new jingles and other projects, and rest assured that I’ll be associated with everything LLB related from this point onward,” he said, adding that this endorsement opportunity with such a reputed local company shows a heightened level of appreciation for the Hip Hop fraternity and overall development within the industry. “It marks growth in the corporate sector as it shows that companies realize they don’t have to run down the carnival season and the soca artistes alone. It shows that they’re capable of also embracing the Hip- Hop culture and other local acts and music genres,” he said.

Brand Officer of International Sales & Marketing at Angostura, Lawn Davis, commenting on the deal struck with Chromatics, said the Angostura family is very excited to have the artiste on board, noting that the work they started with him last year led to this decision and now they look forward to building on the relationship. He said Chromatics was chosen to be the LLB brand ambassador because he fits well with the unique nature of the LLB product, being a unique Trinbagonian artiste himself.

Meanwhile, as Chromatics prepares for the unveiling of his usually critically acclaimed but highly anticipated carnival post mortem, he says he’ll also be releasing his Science of Colours Volume 3 mixtape, which will be getting Angostura’s support much like last year. “It’ll be released on the same day as Carnival Rap Up 3- March 9th and it’ll be available for free download online, inclusive of Carnival Rap Up 2014,” he assured. (EtceteraBuzz.com)

Petrotrin says shutdown was planned TRINIDAD -- State-owned oil company Petrotrin said yesterday that it is in the middle of a planned shutdown to carry out maintenance on certain plants. In response to the lead story in the Sunday Guardian, the company reiterated in a statement that the shutdown was “in accordance with our strategic project plans and processes.” “Part of the overall strategy encompassed both labour relations and product inventory management.

“In respect of labour, the OWTU represents the workers engaged in this shutdown and it is for this reason, the OWTU’s

support was obtained and a Memorandum of Agreement was executed on January 8, 2014, between Petrotrin and the OWTU for the utilization of company labour. “Apart from labour relations, Petrotrin’s management has been actively engaged in managing the product inventory.

“Petrotrin is utilising smaller distillation units for processing equity crude to supply product to critical markets.” The company said a US$150 million bond had been redeemed or paid off since January 17, 2012. (Trinidad Guardian)

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Pooran century not enough - Windies fall in U-19 World Cup DUBAI -- Nicholas Pooran blasted a century for West Indies Under-19 but not enough to avoid a five-wicket defeat from Australia in the quarter-finals of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Under 19 Cricket World Cup here on Sunday.

West Indies Under-19s were bowled out for 208, after being 70 for eight at one stage. Australia reached 209 for five and advanced to the semi-finals of the tournament.

West Indies won the toss and decided to bat but lost five batsmen for only 52 runs on the board. They lost three more wickets for only 18 runs until Pooran decided to take charge and stem the haemorrhage.

Man-of-the-match Pooran shared a ninth-wicket stand of 136 with Jerome Jones to revive West Indies. Jones played sensible and ensured Pooran got as much strike as possible in their fightback.

West Indies were 206 runs when Jones ran out for 20 and two runs later Pooran’s good fortunes ended after he shuffled across to play at a delivery from Guy Walker which knocked his middle stump.

Pooran made 143 from 160 balls which included 14 fours and six sixes.

Walker was the best Australian bowler, also removing the destructive Tagenarine Chanderpaul (4) and Jonathan Drakes (0), finishing with three for 44. Ben Ashkenazi and Thomas Andrews took two wickets apiece.

Pooran, reflecting on his innings, said: “At 70 for eight, I wasn’t thinking much. I just wanted to do what

my coaches had said, which is to bat, bat and bat, and occupy the crease as much as possible.

“I was kind of surprised with the kind of support I got from Jones because he’s a guy who likes to play his shots.

“Definitely this is one of the best innings I have played to date, but I am disappointed that we did not win. When you make runs, you want to see your side to win rather than lose.”

Australia captain Alex Gregory praised Pooran when he said: “Pooran played an outstanding innings. He was in control the whole time and played some outstanding shots.”

Matthew Short (52) and Jason Morgan (55) gave the Australians a magnificent start with a partnership of 107 runs, halfway through their victory target. It was enough to cruise home with Ben McDermott (29) and Jake Doran unbeaten on 49 and with 20 balls to spare.

Ray Jordan took two for 34 and Bryan Charles two for 41, bowling for the West Indies.

Gregory was delighted with his side’s performance and form. “It’s a great moment for all the boys. We lost to Afghanistan, but it’s great to get a win here in the quarter-final. “(Guy) Walker and (Billy) Stanlake were very good earlier on. They bowled fast from the word go and that’s what you need your fast bowlers to do.”

Australia will join South Africa, England and Pakistan in the semi-finals while West Indies will play Afghanistan in one of the play-off matches tomorrow.

(Trinidad Guardian)

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Caribbean Pot: The ultimate curry turkey necks recipe He H Here’s ere re’s w what hat yyo hat ha you’ll ou u’’ll ll n need: eed ee d:: 3 lb llbs bs tu bs tturkey rkey rkey rk y nnecks ecks

Chris De La Rosa Caribbean Cooking One thing you’ll quickly notice about the cuisine of the Caribbean is that we ‘doh waste”. This usually means that things like necks, backs, feet.. even pigs ears, trotters and snouts are used to perfection in many of the dishes throughout the region. We never had turkey necks (or turkey as a matter of fact) when we were growing up, as it wasn’t a common poultry on the islands back in those days. How times have changed!

The boney texture of the turkey necks allows for a delicious curry and if you’re not skirmish, it will be one of the best curry dishes you ever enjoy. If you’re daring kick up the heat level as I find that a spicy curry takes on a whole new dimension.

Marinade…

1 tablespoon Caribbean Green Seasoning 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon curry powder (for marinating the turkey) 2 scallions (green onions) 1 tomato (diced) 1/2 scotch bonnet pepper (or to your liking) 1 teaspoon ketchup Cooking…

2 tablespoon veg oil 1 onion (diced) 4 cloves garlic (diced) 1 1/2 tablespoon curry powder 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger 3 cups water 2 tablespoon chopped cilantro – garnish at the end Wash, drain and marinate the turkey necks with the ingredients mentioned in the marinade list above. Overnight in the fridge will be best, but if you’re in a rush try to get about 2 hours.

H Heat eat th ea the he ooi oil il on on a m medium ed edi diu ium flam aame me then th then n aadd dd th dd the he ggarlic he arrlic and an nd on onion… nio on red reduce educce the th he heat to low and let it cook for about 3 minutes. Just to soften up and helps with a lovely flavor base. Then toss in the curry powder (heat still on low) and cook for another 2-4 minutes. This will toast the spices in the curry powder and help them bloom… plus it will cook the curry so you don’t get a raw curry taste at the end.

The curry will go darker in color and take on a grainy texture… then start clumping together. Turn up the heat to high and start adding the seasoned turkey necks to the pot. It’s ok if the marinade gets it there and try to deglaze the pot so we get all that lovely curry goodness from the bottom of the pot. After the necks take on a bit of color (about 2-3 minutes) reduce the heat to low, place the lid on the pot and cook for about 10 minutes. It will spring it’s own natural juices.

Then remove the lid, turn up the heat and grate in the ginger. This step is to do two things, burn off all the liquid and in the process give the dish a rich color and infuse it with massive curry flavor (stir). Pour the 3 cups of water into the same container you had the necks marinating in and swish it

aro ar around ound ou nd tto o pi ppick ick k uup p an aany ny re rema remaining main main ma iniin ing ma m marinade. ari rina naddee. nad e.

W With iitth al all ll th the he li liqu liquid quid id d iin n th the he po pot ot bu bburnt urnt off, add in the water and bring to a boil.

You’ll need some patience now.. turn the heat down to low and let it simmer (braise) for about 2 hours. The idea is to have very tender turkey necks when it’s all done. * If you’d like you can certainly use a pressure cooker to cut back the cooking time for this dish by at least 1.5 hrs or if you want low and slow, a slow cooker will work as well. The first few steps must be done first though (cook curry powder, add seasoned turkey and then burn off initial liquid.. this will give you that rich curry flavor we expect from a good curry).

After a couple hrs you can now test for salt and adjust accordingly, if the gravy is thin you can turn up the heat and thicken it a bit more (or burn off all if you want a more infused curry) and top with some chopped cilantro or culantro (shado beni).

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Yoga for arthritic hands Geeta Maraj Yoga It is commonly accepted today that yoga is a form of exercise which helps to keep the body healthy. Yoga is a holistic remedy, in that; it is a fusion of the health of the emotions, as well as, the health of the body. And for this reason, almost any aspect of mental or physical setbacks, can find some rendering through the amazing practice of yoga.

Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints of the body, which can be quite painful and discomforting. There are almost 100 different types of arthritis and the variations continue to grow. Today, millions of dollars is being allocated to arthritis research and remedy. These result in a variation of treatments to include, oral medication, injections into the affected joints and surgical intervention. But above all variation of treatment, on rule holds true, that the more you keep the joints active through specific exercises, the healthier and stronger the joints become.

While there might be the tendency to restrict movement of the painful joint so as to prevent further agony, the opposite is actually more beneficial. Research shows that

through the strengthening of the muscles, synovial fluid is somehow produced, thereby preventing the joints from rubbing together and creating swelling and discomfort.

There are many weight bearing and resistance stretches which help to prevent or aid discomfort in the joints of the fingers and knuckles of the hands due to arthritis.

Exercises for finger joints: Place your fingers in a cupped position (like you are holding a large ball in your hand) on the surface table or desk. Ensure that your knuckles are curved and not outstretched.

Then push on the surface with your cupped hands. This creates resistance in the joints, thereby, helping the knuckles and joints to become stronger.

While keeping the resistance in your fingers in the cupped position on the desk or any flat surface, an additional stretch would be to try to lift a single finger at a time, so that the finger becomes parallel to the surface upon which you are pushing.

After you have lifted the finger and hold in position for as long as is possible, (2 to 10 seconds or longer), replace that finger in the cupped position before you begin to lift the next finger. Repeat until each finger has been lifted off the surface, all the while pushing down on the other fingers onto the surface.

Make your hands into fists, with your fists facing you. Tighten your fists with as much strength as you can. Once you can no longer tighten your fists, slowly allow one finger to be outstretched while maintaining

the tight fist hold. Once you have completed every finger being outstretched, then turn your hands downwards in the cupped position and gently shake out your hands as if you were trying to shake water from your fingers.

Wrist rolls: To exercise your wrists, make a fist and tense the hold to make the muscles of your hand contract. Then slowly rotate your fist in a clockwise position, thereby rotating your wrist.

Count the amount of times you rotate your wrist in the clockwise direction and then repeat to the same count in the anticlockwise direction.

An additional stretch for your fingers, wrists and shoulders is to stand a foot length distance from the wall. Place your hands on the wall at shoulder level.

Spread your fingers widely apart and pretend you are trying to push the wall down.

The muscles of the entire arm should be tense as you push against the wall. To come out of this position, you slowly decrease the push against the wall till there is no force left. Then gentle lower your arms and shake them about to +help with the blood flow in the arms. You can repeat this stretch 2 to 10 times or as is comfortable for you.

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UK company Oxitec plans to release GM mosquitoes in Panama without required risk assessment A British vector-control firm is planning to release genetically modified mosquitoes in Panama before the company performs an adequate risk assessment, according to several reports.

The group GM Watch, an organization established to “counter the enormous corporate political power and propaganda of the biotech industry and its supporters,” according to its website, reported Feb. 12: Oxitec’s notification for the export of GM mosquito eggs to Panama contains no risk assessment for its planned experiments[1], despite this being a requirement under EU law. GeneWatch UK warned that the Panamanian authorities or the Gorgas Institute could be liable if anything goes wrong with the experiments, as they have failed to require the company to assess the risks.

No risk assessment For its part, Oxitec says it “is a pioneer in controlling insects that spread disease and damage crops. Through world class science we have developed an innovative new solution to controlling harmful insects pests.”

But critics of the company say introducing untested GM mosquito eggs into ecosystems in Panama is a recipe for trouble -- as well as a potential legal problem for the company.

“Oxitec’s risk assessment is an essential part of the decision because it gives the company’s view on everything that could

go wrong with the experiments” said Dr. Helen Wallace, director of GeneWatch UK, another anti-GMO organization.

“It is negligent of Oxitec to fail to do this risk assessment, which should meet European standards. It may be impossible to hold Oxitec liable for anything that’s incorrect or missing if the experiments have been approved based on a different risk assessment that they claim they haven’t even seen,” she added.

According to one report in a local Panamanian newspaper, El Siglo, the company planned to bring the GM mosquito eggs to the Central American country by Feb. 15.

The local paper said Oxitec was planning on releasing some 240,000 of the mosquitoes per week after they began hatching. The experiments were planned to begin in Nuevo Chorrillo, in the Arraijan district of Panama.

The Panamanian Public Health Ministry approved the experiments.

GeneWatch said the group has previously drawn attention to “a number of issues” that Oxitec should be addressing in a risk assessment so that local populations can make informed decisions regarding the release.

IF all goes according to plan...

“Local people in Panama must be asked for their fully informed consent before these experiments begin,” Wallace said. “This means

the risks must not be hidden by the company.

People must be able to discuss the pros and cons of these experiments and have a right to have their say.”

Oxitec says its GM mosquitoes have been genetically programmed to die at the larvae stage, according to local reports: They are bred in the lab in the presence of an antidote to the genetic killing mechanism (the common antibiotic tetracycline), then vast numbers of males (millions for an experimental release or billions for a commercial one) are released into the environment so they outnumber the wild males and mate with wild females. Because most of the offspring die before adulthood, this is intended to reduce the wild population of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which carry the tropical disease dengue fever.

What could go wrong?

“Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are part of a complex system which includes other mosquito species, the viruses they carry, and the humans that they bite,” Wallace said. “Local people should be aware that releasing large numbers of GM mosquitoes can pose risks to their health and the environment. They also need to know who will be liable if anything goes wrong - will Oxitec take responsibility for any problems, or just walk away?” (NaturalNews)

Large study finds mammograms do not lower breast cancer death rate A large and comprehensive study which looked at 90,000 Canadian women aged 40 to 59 for 25 years has cast fresh doubts on the usefulness of mammography. It found that mammograms did not lower the death rate from breast cancer. And it didn’t reduce the death rate from all causes, either.

The study, which was published in the British Medical Journal, had compared the outcomes of women who either carried out breast examinations on their own, or underwent regular mammograms and breast examinations by trained nurses.

The number of women randomly assigned to each group was roughly the same - close to 45,000. Slightly more women in the mammogram group were diagnosed with breast cancer - 3,250 vs 3,133, but the number of women in each group who eventually died from breast cancer was virtually identical.

To make things worse, there was the issue of over-diagnosis and over-intervention - about one in five of the cancers detected and treated would not have threatened the women’s health and did not require treatments like surgery, chemo and radiation.

Previous research The truth is, despite the findings of this study, the present guidelines for mammograms are not likely to change anytime soon, although the American Cancer Society is re-

viewing this and other studies. According to Dr. Richard C. Wender, its chief of cancer control, combined data from clinical studies has shown that mammograms reduced the death rate from breast cancer by at least 15 percent for women in their 40s and at least 20 percent for those older.

Such research data has led some experts to believe that mammograms help to lower overall breast cancer death rates via early detection. For example, in the 3rd edition of The Definitive Guide to Cancer: An Integrative Approach to Prevention, Treatment, and Healing, the authors state that “mammography has been associated with an overall decreased risk of death due to breast cancer.”

However, some limitations of prior research which suggested the usefulness of mammograms in reducing breast cancer death rates have been pointed out. For example, unlike the recent Canadian study, many previous studies did not randomly assign the women to mammogram or no mammogram, which is considered a gold-standard of clinical trials. Further, the women in the recent study were aware of the disease and its dangers, unlike the subjects of previous research which would have been likelier to ignore breast lumps; for this latter group, mammograms could indeed be useful.

Many experts also feel that evidence supporting mammogram’s usefulness

in lowering death rates is lacking or inconclusive, and that mammograms could in fact be harmful. Rates of false positives are high, and an annual mammogram has been estimated to increase breast cancer risk by between 1 percent to 3 percent.

Indeed, Dr. Peter Juni, a former member of the Swiss Medical Board, said that mammograms were not lowering overall breast cancer death rate but instead elevating over-diagnosis, false positives and unnecessary biopsies. Switzerland is the only country which has suggested that mammogram screening be stopped.

Dr. Mette Kalager, an epidemiologist and screening researcher at the University of Oslo and the Harvard School of Public Health, expressed surprise that mammogram’s lack of effectiveness in lowering death rate and over-diagnosis rate were similar to those of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening for prostate cancer, considering that most nations support mammograms while most do not encourage PSA screening. Based on available research data, should mammograms not be discouraged, too?

With experts divided, women and their families have to weigh the pros and cons of mammograms and arrive at a personal decision. (NaturalNews)

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Eight unique ways to use honey beyond the kitchen As a healing and nutrient-dense food, many of us are familiar with the benefits of raw honey.

But did you know that honey can be used in a variety of ways outside the kitchen?

If we only use honey for its sweet taste and glorious texture, we miss out on an entire spectrum of applications. Granted, a batch of local, organic and unpasteurized (raw) honey offers a wealth of nutritional perks, including minerals like iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium -- not to mention easily digestible simple sugars, which can give you a healthy boost when energy lags. Nevertheless, honey is much more than just a delicious food. Have a look at the following eight alternative uses for this “liquid gold.”

For Healing...

Sanitize scrapes and cuts, soothe burns: As

a naturally antimicrobial substance, honey acts like an antibiotic cream. In fact, research published in this article found honey to possess superior antiseptic and healing properties. And manuka (the “King of Honey”) has even been shown to knockout antibiotic-resistant MSRA bacteria.

Quiet a cough, ease sore throats: As shown by clinical studies, honey has equal effectiveness in calming coughs as over-the-counter cough medicines. Mix 1 tablespoon or so of raw honey with warm water to tame a sore or dry throat and soothe nagging coughs.

Banish parasites: Known as a backpacker’s remedy for parasitic hitchhikers, a blend of honey, purified water and apple cider vinegar will help destroy the intruders. Mix 1 tablespoon

each of honey and unpasteurized apple cider vinegar with 2 cups warm water. Drink several times a day for two months.

final rinse on just shampooed hair. The result?

Those frizzy, parched locks are a thing of the past, and unruly hair is given a glossy finish.

Relieve the agony of a hangover: If you find that you have overindulged, try a teaspoon of honey dissolved in a glass of water to help speed up the metabolism of alcohol.

For Mental Health...

Calm anxiety: Long used in Ayurvedic medicine to quell nervous disorders, honey is especially effective when combined with calming teas like chamomile, fennel or lavender.

For Beauty...

Moisturize: As a humectant, honey naturally draws moisture to the skin, making it an ideal addition to any anti-aging regimen. To make your own herb-infused honey lotion, Anna Brones of EcoSalon offers an ingeniously simple recipe.

Conquer insomnia: If stress hormones are keeping you from getting decent shut-eye, take a teaspoon of lightly salted honey before bedtime. A small amount of honey in the evening ensures that glycogen stores are adequate in the liver, which reduces the release of sleep-disrupting hormones. (NaturalNews)

Shine: For beautiful hair, mix 1 teaspoon of honey with 1 quart of warm water -- use as a

Hey vegetarians, did you check for calf stomach (rennet) in your cheese?

How many vegetarians think that their cheese does not contain animal byproducts? Did you think that, because it says on the package “no rBST hormones” or “no rBGH used with these cows,” they didn’t kill their babies and carve out their stomachs for some rennet? If you’ve abstained from eating meat because you feel sorry for animals, especially ones that are treated inhumanely, what about their babies? You may want to make your own pizzas with vegetarian cheese instead of ordering out or dining in. You may want to rethink your choices. Also, you may want to check the labels on every package of cheese you buy, from now on, for rennet, the lining of calves’ stomachs.

If you are vegetarian, but not vegan, you consume eggs and other dairy products, figuring that no animals had to die to produce that food, but what about the calves? There are over 10 million cows being milked in America right now. On average, those milking cows give birth about once every 16 months. That means around 7 million calves are birthed each year. Half of those calves are born female and are raised to become milking cows like their moms. Of the

males, only about one in five become veal cutlets on people’s dinner plates, so what happens to the rest? Are they “studded out?”

A typical baby male calf weighing about 100 pounds is sold at the age of one week, and four months later they’re sold at cattle auctions. What happens next is NOT displayed on the cheese package or some happy little farm scene painted on the wall above the butcher station at your grocery “super” store.

out the inside lining of a baby cow’s stomach, but you may just be one of millions responsible for making sure that more calves suffer that same fate, because you purchase it and purchase without second-guessing, without doublechecking, without filtering. You may not be the one who pulls the trigger or slits the throat with a knife, but you may be the “indirect executioner” of CAFO food by being a constant, ignorant consumer.

Hello Monsanto, the biotech company with horns and a cane. What other bacteria, viruses and pesticides may be getting brewed up in that lab with the chymosin? Only GM scientists, politicians and Big Food know that answer. Are they bragging because they’re not slaughtering calves? What about slow human slaughter with cancer, does that count?

Buying cheese without rennet is very important Rennet is added to most cheese to speed the coagulation process and separate the milk into solid curds and liquid whey. The way is drained away, and the curd is pressed and molded into your cheese blocks or shredded. Some are matured (aged) after that. The rennet is used because it contains an enzyme called chymosin from the fourth stomach of newborn calves or lambs. Only the babies have this enzyme to help them digest and absorb milk. Most European cheeses use rennet.

You may not be the person scraping

Beware of GM rennet There is more bad news, before bringing the good news, so hang in there. Did you know that there is genetically modified (GM) rennet?

Yes, not just from calves fed GM feed either.

This gets uglier than that. There are laboratories which “create” rennet from fungal and bacterial sources that function like the animal-based kind.

They may even label it as “non-animal” rennet.

Therein lies the trick. Genetic engineering techniques can extract the DNA which encodes for chymosin (from calf stomach cells) and insert it into microbes -- thus creating a microorganism that grows chymosin in commercial quantities.

If you don’t know already, there is vegetarian rennet. It is obtained from fig leaves, safflower, melon and wild thistle. Check for cheese labels that distinguish the three rennet categories: animal, microbial and vegetable.

Eat vegetarian cheese, and maybe all those calves won’t end up on the shelves of the convenient stores in the form of snacks, beef jerky, dog chews and conventional cheese for the Obamacare masses. Don’t feed the “corporate” madness. Do more research on rennet made from fig leaves, safflower, melon and wild thistle. (NaturalNews)

Now here comes the GOOD NEWS!

WOMAN ON FIRE GALA! Sunday 27th April 2014

www.womanonfiregala.com

Info/tickets: 647-713-3622

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Headaches and TMJ - Part 2 Dr. Matthew Weekes BSC DDS MTh DMin

Dental Health

Dental treatment can be helpful in the prevention, treatment and elimination of severe headaches.

Among the distressing symptoms of TMD (Tempero Mandibular Dysfunction) commonly referred to a TMJ, are severe headaches. Very often this type of reoccurring, annoying excruciating pain is described as a migraine headache. Because of the location of the pain, seldom does the sufferer think that there is a dental connection.

In TMD, there is dysfunction of the joint between the upper and lower jaw. It is in an abnormal, unhealthy state. The normal anatomy has been altered either by inherent factors or by external forces causing the joint to become deranged. The malposition of the cartilage disc, which is an important part of the joint, adversely affects the smooth frictionless opening and closing of the mouth.

This results in the stretching and compression of muscles, ligaments and nerves beyond their normal limits. Trigger points are created which refer painful impulses to the forehead, temple, under the eyes, ears, neck, and other parts of the head.

There are certain developmental abnormalities of the jaws and unfavourable arrangement of teeth that manifest early in life, such as deep bites, underbites, underdeveloped or overdeveloped jaws. If not corrected, TMD may develop later. Early orthodontic and orthopedic intervention is

essential in maintaining healthy joints and preventing TMD. Steps taken to prevent injury to the head also has a positive effect such as wearing a mouth guard during contact sports. The restoration of decayed or damaged teeth or the replacement of missing teeth in areas critical to the health of the TMJ sufferer is beneficial.

A dentist should be among the front line of professionals involved in the diagnosis and treatment of TMD. If you have most of the symptoms or conditions mentioned below you may be suffering fromTMD. The most common symptoms are severe headaches, a fall or accident causing trauma to the head, whiplash, sounds in the jaw joints and ear, pain with no infection, difficulty opening and closing the mouth, jaw locking, neck pain, clenching teeth during the day and grinding teeth at night.

Beat the winter blues Dr. Lydia Thurton ND BASc

Health Tips It is winter in Canada. It’s cold, grey, snowy and slushy and many of my patients are totally over it. This week I’ve seen a number of normally good spirited people, feeling those winter blues. The lack of light and frigid temperatures have many of us struggling to get through our days without descending into total hibernation mode.

When you are feeling down it is important to be mindful of your surroundings.

Now is the time to put on your favorite soca tunes, watch your favorite funny movies and

read books that inspire and enlighten. It is easy to get bogged down with the problems of the world at these dark, cold times. Try as best you can to keep your home environment one that is encourages your mental health.

Many people are aware of the research on fish oil and vitamin D’s ability to ward off depression and low mood. There are so many wonderful herbs that can also assist and tend to be less well known. Some herbs work quickly like passion flower, kava kava and valerian. These herbs tend to have a mild sedative effect and can assist if you are feeling overwhelmed or are having a difficult time staying calm and collected. The best way to take your herbs is in tincture form. This is an easily absorbed, alcohol extract that tastes terrible but works well.

Adaptogen herbs are a unique class of botanicals. There are no pharmaceutical equivalents. On top of your kidneys you have these little triangular glands make many types of hormones, but one of the big

players is cortisol. Our “stress” hormone.

These adaptogen herbs have a specific action on the adrenal glands and help us to ward of stress over the long term. You will not notice the effects immediately, as they take 6-8 weeks to build up in the system. Examples of herbs that can build your body over the winter months are rhodiola rosea, ashwaganda, ginseng and false ginseng, known as eleuthrococcus.

Staying present in the current moment is one of the best known techniques to ward off depressive or anxious mood states.

When you feel your mind racing or dwelling on negativity turn it off by simply focusing on your breathing. The first few times you try this meditative technique you will get distracted easily. That is okay. Just bring your focus back. Notice the furniture in the room, the smell in the air and your body posture. Being present in the moment cultivates peace and acceptance, even when you’re standing knee deep in a snow bank.

It takes more than diet and exercise Monique Bartlett Fitness Losing weight is one of the hardest things most people have ever done. If it was easy to lose weight there wouldn’t be anyone struggling with weight issues. It takes motivation and willpower, knowledge, time, effort and support of those around you to be successful in weight loss. Then not only do you have to lose the weight, you also have to maintain the weight loss as well.

Though exercise and portion control are key, there is also an emotional process that occurs while trying to lose weight.

Overcoming past weight loss failures, temptations, negative beliefs about yourself and lack of support from your family and friends, all play a huge part of the process. While most people focus on the outside when it comes to weight loss, you would be ahead of the game if you were to also focus on what’s happening on the inside.

You have to be aware of other factors that may affect your journey. Making sure that you get enough sleep, drinking enough water, have your hormones under control, making sure your thyroid is functioning properly, your sugar cravings are under control, and the list goes on. It takes more than just diet and exercise to be suc-

cessful in weight loss.

But, as many people who struggle with weight loss know all too well, we can be our own worst enemy. Between physical limitations and the emotions that come up during the process such as shame, guilt, anger, fear, sadness, hurt, rage, it becomes very difficult to create real, lasting change, no matter what your intentions. Learn how to deal with your emotions and overcome the negative voice inside you.

If you look at losing weight as a mind and body experience you will be more likely to have greater success. Look at it as a process to build your confidence and selfesteem. Once you succeed you will not only look good but you will feel good and be glad that you completed the journey.

Wednesday, February 26, 2014 23

24 Wednesday, February 26, 2014

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Home staging, mortgage options and RRSPʼs Stephen Mohammed Finance Real Estate - There are a number of factors to consider when selling a home. Home staging is a very effective way to make your home more attractive and appealing to prospective buyers and their agents. Some sales representatives offer this as a complimentary service, when you sign a listing agreement.

You can also find a home staging expert on the web through many search engines, such as Bing and Google, or even get a referral from your sales representative if they do not offer the service.

Home staging impacts how quickly your home will sell and what price it will sell for. De-cluttering your home makes your home appear more spacious and attractive.

Remove all unnecessary items or belongs, furniture, children’s toys and personal wall and desk photos to allow the prospective buyer the opportunity to envision themselves and their belongings in the home.

Mortgages - When purchasing your new home, renewing or refinancing your current mortgage, deciding whether a fixed or variable rate is right for you can be stressful at times. Especially when the prime rate, fixed rates and variable rates are so close. Prime rate is at 3%, 5 year fixed is between 2.89% -

3.09% and 5 year closed variable is between prime-.30% - prime+.10% depending on the available lenders. It comes down to your ability to make the payments, should there be an increase in the rate. Your income and debt ratio are key indicators on whether you have room to make the adjustment. Other than that, it really is a personal preference on how comfortable you feel about the current economic situation and the choice that you make. You should certainly seek the advice of a mortgage professional.

Finance - April 30th, 2013 is tax deadline for filing your personal income tax for 2012.

The RRSP deadline for contribution to deduct to qualify for a tax break for 2012 was March 1st, 2013. The allowable RRSP deduction is 18% of your prior year’s earned income to a maximum of $22,970 for 2012 minus any pension adjustment you receive as a member of a company pension plan.

Any unused contributions can be carried forward to the following year.

For 2013 RRSP deduction is 18% of your prior year’s earned income to a maximum of $23,820. You are permitted to over contribute a cumulative lifetime total of $2,000 to your RRSP without incurring a penalty tax. An over contribution is not deductible from income in the current year, but the advantage is that you can put the additional cash into your RRSP where it can compound on a tax-deferred basis for as long as it remains in the plan. Over contributions may be deducted in a subsequent year when your actual RRSP contribution is less than the maximum allowed. A penalty tax of 1% per month applies to the amount of any over contribution in excess of $2,000.

Extending citizenship to lost Canadians: the strengthening Canadian citizenship act HALIFAX -- Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander and Peter MacKay, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, today reinforced the government’s commitment to extend citizenship to more “Lost Canadians” through measures proposed in Bill C-24, the Strengthening Canadian Citizenship Act. In 2009, the government implemented changes that restored or gave citizenship to the vast majority of people who had lost it or never received it due to outdated legislation—including to some born before 1947. Yet a small number of “Lost Canadians” such as some first generation children

born abroad to war brides and service men were still not eligible for Canadian citizenship.

The proposed amendments in the Strengthening Canadian Citizenship Act include extending citizenship to most of the remaining “Lost Canadians” who were born before the first Canadian Citizenship Act took effect in 1947 as well as to their children who were born outside Canada in the first generation.

Overall, the government’s reforms to the Citizenship Act protect the value of citizenship and ensure the process is faster and more efficient for new Canadians. (CIC)

Protecting and promoting Canadaʼs interests and values: the strengthening Canadian citizenship act WINNIPEG -- Today Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander reaffirmed the government’s commitment to honouring those who serve Canada by highlighting measures proposed in Bill C-24, the Strengthening Canadian Citizenship Act. To recognize the important contributions of those who have served Canada in uniform, and those who currently serve, permanent residents who are members of the Canadian Armed Forces will have quicker access to Canadian citizenship. Bill C-24 also stipulates that children born to Canadian parents serving abroad as servants of the Crown are able to pass on their citizenship to children they have or adopt outside

Canada.

With these changes, Canada will be in line with most of our peer countries, by providing that citizenship can be revoked from dual nationals who are convicted of terrorism, high treason, and spying offences (depending on the sentence received), or who take up arms against Canada.

Permanent residents who commit these acts will be barred from applying for citizenship.

The changes proposed in Bill C-24 honour the contributions and sacrifices of those who serve Canada while ensuring those who commit crimes against Canada are barred from accessing Canadian citizenship. (CIC)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

The ministry of transportation gives conflicting information Re: 407ETR Tammy Flores 407ETR Matters The group “Stop the 407ETR’s Abuse of Power” has been busy over the past few weeks trying to piece together how the Ministry of Transportation receives notice from 407ETR and what documentation they receive that justifies putting someone in Plate Denial.

The group is complaining that they have been receiving conflicting information from the Ministry of Transportation’s representatives. The group stresses that they are not blaming the Ministry’s Representatives for purposefully giving out misinformation, but rather stresses there is a cloud of ambiguity that causes confusion surrounding how someone is placed in Plate Denial.

When Andrew Bird went to get a sticker for his vehicle, he was told at the counter that he owed $43,000.00 to 407ETR and

that he wouldn’t be able to get a sticker until he paid the money owed. They were not able to give him any details about what the charges where for. Andrew called Service Ontario to see if he could get more information on what the charges were for. He spoke with Anthony and asked if they had any back up information that would provide him with details. Anthony said the 407 sends the information over to the Default Fine Control Centre, managed by the Provincial Courts and that Service Ontario draws the information from the Default Fine Control Centre on how much was owed.

I decided to get in touch with the Default Fine Control Centre because Lou Politano, the Ministry of Transportation’s Regional Director, had given me different information on how a person is placed in Plate Denial. Lou said they receive, “a security-encrypted electronic transmission from 407 ETR, uploaded to the Ministry’s database overnight. The transmission includes a unique file number for that report, and details to identify the license plate number, the 407 ETR Account number, the amount owing, and the date on which a Section 22 (Notice of Plate Denial) was sent to the customer. Furthermore, each transmission includes a statement from the Chief Financial Officer at 407 ETR certifying that 407 ETR has

complied with the requirements of the Act in the issuance of notices.”

Rose from Default Fine’s says “We don’t deal with 407 at all here... it’s something that has been commissioned out to the 407 you have to deal with the 407 people”.

I also called Service Ontario to find out why people are receiving mixed messages on how someone is placed in Plate Denial.

Parvin, from Service Ontario said, “maybe they were mixed up... the only thing we get to see is the actual amount owing... we don’t have access to see any account numbers. I really can’t speak about anything, you have to speak to 407ETR about what their protocols are.”

Despite provisions in the 407Act to be able to dispute bills independently with the company, it appears the Ministry of Transportation has dropped the ball and has allowed 407ETR to call all the shots. Not only does 407ETR not provide their customers with documentation that would indicate what the actual tolls are, but they don’t provide the information to the Ministry of Transportation either.

How can the Ministry of Transportation justify blindly honoring requests for payment from 407ETR? Nobody is looking over the shoulder of 407ETR and you know what they say... absolute power corrupts absolutely.

Is travel insurance expensive – or is emergency care?

Olivia Boodram Travel Your trip is booked… Where you will be staying is arranged and the places you will be visiting are all taken care of. What a relief to have all of this completed and now you can relax and wait for the day to arrive.

But… and there always is a but - is your trip financially protected? By this I mean, are you protected against, the misfortune of an illness, that unexpected accident, an unplanned cancellation or an unexpected interruption in your trip.

Many people; not you of course; either don’t think of getting any kind of travel protection for their journey, or think they won’t need it. After all, they believe, they have been on so many trips in the past, never purchased insurance and nothing happened to them. And do you know what? This seems quite understandable, because we all have the tendency to feel, it won’t happen to us.

But… and there always is a but WHAT IF? Can I take this moment to give you an idea

of the average costs associated with a trip to an emergency medical facility, when you are out of the country?

Headache/Migraine - $238+ Treated for a sore throat/ear ache/fever $575 Getting stitches in an Emergency room $1,500 Sprained ankle - $2,750 Urinary Tract Infection - $3,600 Asthmatic attack - $3,700 Concussion - $4,500 Air Medical Transportation - $12,000 $25,000 Heart Attack/Stroke - $17,400 - $96,575+

only know the cost of your visit, when you return home and the bill arrives in the mail; which just might cause you to have a “heart attack.” Some countries have been known to refuse care until you show them you can pay either with cash or through your insurance company. There have also been cases of patients being detained until full payment for the medical intervention, has been received in full. And there is just one more consideration that you may be not be aware of. Many countries have two/three-tiered health care systems. If you cannot pay, your care could be transferred to a facility that may have standards possibly less than what you would expect or what you have come to expect.

This is not a risk that anyone should be willing to take, regardless of the age or health of the traveller. Coverage may seem expensive but it really isn’t, when you consider the alternative.

Here are some examples of costs for health coverage and trip/interruption cancellation insurance.

Average emergency room visit - $1,265 Female healthy 16 year old, 10 day trip - $25 Source: nih.gov/pubmed - *rates stated in US dollars And think about it this way, you can travel from one gas station to another looking to purchase your gas at one of the advertised cheaper prices, but you cannot do this with a health care facility. Simply because they do not show their prices for any of their treatments, tests, therapy or care. You will

Male 76 year old with stable COPD/Heart condition, 6 week trip - $686 Most other travelers will fall somewhere in between these two extremes, but as you can see they come nowhere near the cost of an emergency room visit, while traveling outside of your country.

Wednesday, February 26, 2014 25

FOR SALE FOR SALE METAL SHELVES: 3 metal shelve cases for cargo van. 1 in excellent condition, 2 in good condition. $500 for all 3. 647-3094606 DVDs: Assorted DVDs for sale or swap.

Contact Jim for more information. 416-8947859 JAMAICA HOME: Jamaica Home for Sale. Near Ocho Rios. Spacious 2 story house, 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, hot and cold water, security grills, fully fenced yard, seasonal fruit trees, move in condition. Contact Yvonne 416-786-5149 msamie@rogers.com 2002 HONDA ACCORD COUPE: Model SE, sun roof, spoiler and heated seats. In great condition, includes new winter tires, black on black interior. Certified and Emission tested, asking $4500. 416-705-9907 SALT WATER AQUARIUM: 40 gal Red Sea tank value at $900 alone. includes all live stock, equiptment ,LED lights. Owner willing to setup. Asking $1000 416-7059907.

AQUARIUM: Fresh Water Aquarium (approx 70 gallons) includes stand, pump and decoration. $200. 416-705-9907.

LAND IN TOBAGO: On Riseland Road, 10,500 square feet near the Airport, Royal Bank Plaza, Store Bay Beach and Mount Irvine Golf Course. Contact 647-467-3171 FREEHOLD LAND: Harriman Park Point Fortin Trinidad. 27 Main Road - 6450 square feet. 18 Hillcrest Road - 9935 square feet. Serious bids to lamsaleslam@gmail. com or call 1-868-347-6191

FOR SALE FOR SALE

FORWANTED SALE HELP

HOUSE FOR SALE: 3 Bedroom house in Willowdeen St Catherin off Old Harbor Road, fully grilled, move in condition, fruit trees. Call 416-749-0148

BUSY BRAMPTON ROTI SHOP: Immediate help wanted. Please call 905-497-6800

FOR RENT SALE FOR ROOM FOR RENT: Student Preferable.

Victoria Park and Main/Danfort. Call 416938-3753. Message 416-686-5502

DRIVER: Driver wanted for a cargo van.

Must have a G or G2 License. Call 416938-3753. Message 416-686-5502

FOR SALE WANTED

HOUSE FOR RENT: Available for January 1st 2014. 45 Amethyst Circle, Brampton, The Gore Road/Contrelle Blvd. 3 bedrooms/3 bathrooms, full wash, spacious living room/dining room. Close to shopping area, businesses Call 416-570-0925 or 416722-6528 ALL SEASON COTTAGE: Wasaga Beach. 4 Bedroom, sleeps 10. 15 Minutes drive from Blue Mountain and Beach. Log on to www.wasagabeachretreat.ca for more info or call 905-495-8901 SALON CHAIR: Available for rent to an establish stylist or someone who is interested in building a clientele. Contact Gurline 647-345-1752 WORSHIP SPACE: Space available for Worship. Available from 2pm Location Warden and St Clair. Call 416-938-3753.

Message 416-686-5502 ESTHETICS ROOM: In the Oakwood ave and St Clair area contact Gurline 647345-1752

FOR SALE SERVICES

PERSONAL TRAINING: Free personal training using either Chiropractor or Athletic Therapy insurance benefits email eric@habitual.ca for more info!

FOR SALE OPPORTUNITIES

WORK FROM HOME: Looking for a part time job that I can do from home. NO MLM please, I’m looking for work - Sunil 647-988-3002 FRIDGE: Looking for a fridge for our church. Free or $50 and less. Call 416-9383753. Message 416-686-5502

FOR SALE WORSHIP

DISTRIBUTORS WANTED: Looking for self motivated individuals to help promote some natural health products. 416-721-9945

FOR SALE PERSONALS

Financially secure businessman looking for a Guyanese Indian woman married or unmarried for companionship.

ATTENTION SPECIAL SOMEONE: You called me before, I was not ready then. Please call now.

Call 647-854-0335 COMPANION: Looking for a companion to share a cabin on a boat cruise. Please call after 6pm. Sally 647-344-4650

FORWANTED SALE HELP SALES REPS NEEDED: Seeking sales reps to increase new business. Confident and self-motivated, highly skilled at aquiring new business. 647-722-6298

PEN PALS: Looking for male pen pals from Guyana or Trinidad. Between the ages of 50-59. Please email sharmen.singh@ yahoo.com

28 Wednesday, February 26, 2014

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Your Horoscope - February 26th 2014 ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

Your creativity can be truly inspired now.

Submerge yourself right where you are, and let the world spin without you for just a little while. Brand-new or long-running, Jupiter/Uranus now stirs up something major.

Watch for an announcement, more action, or traction as early as Monday/Tuesday. Once it sparks, expect to get swept up or swept away.

Whether you’ve been hoping for it or it takes you by stealth, watch for this next week to open up something new. Social, professional, or financial, there’s more potential on brew and better opportunity for you now, too. Of course, it’s up to you to recognize it and take full advantage of the gift.

A weekend to get away from it all could be ideal. Let yourself off the hook, enjoy the Games, or keep your time open and see where it takes you. Monday/Tuesday, you’ll see more take shape. Even though it’s a natural progression, there’s still a sudden or surprise element in the mix. Wednesday’s Aquarius moon brings you or it to life.

Through Sunday, you should find yourself on an especially smooth sail. You can coast if you feel like it, but put opportunity to use and you’ll be happy you did. Jupiter in Cancer keeps more than the average on percolate. Monday through Wednesday can see you jump through a significant hoop or make a significant personal, emotional, or professional breakthrough.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

A tender, romantic, or indulgent mood can overtake you this weekend. Partake and enjoy, but watch for time, money, or inhibition to evaporate without notice. You can be easily swayed, and you can do a number on yourself, too. Keep tabs on safety, health, projections, and expectations. Monday/ Tuesday can put you under added pressure.

Wednesday onward, you’re over it and on to a fresh page.

Get up to something or nothing; either way, the weekend keeps you well entertained.

The building sun/Neptune transit also suggests it’s time to forgive, forget, let go, and allow something new to come in. Watch for Jupiter/Uranus to bring it on full blast. Monday/Tuesday, effort should prove especially productive. Wednesday delivers added clarity, a major insight, timely news, advice, or opportunity.

Regarding health or problem-solving, listen to your intuition and follow gut instincts.

The feel of it will inform you best, especially when you put fear or excessive imagination out of the way. Sunday could be a write-off, although if you apply yourself to creativity and romance or volunteer for a worthy cause, the opposite is true. On Wednesday, things click together for you very well.

The next few days put you at your creative and attention-getting best. Put on a show, play up the romance, steal the spotlight, or treat yourself to something special. Whether you pitch your products, ideas, or yourself, sun/Neptune helps you to easily charm and sway. Monday/Tuesday, the stars are on a productive move-ahead. Midweek delivers a fresh twist, burst, or option.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Time spent reflecting, meditating, and pondering is exceptionally beneficial and/or healing for you through the weekend. Don’t push what isn’t coming naturally. Watch for insight to grow and for answers or avenues to reveal themselves, especially from Sunday onward. Monday/Tuesday, stay practical, keep it real. Take things one step at a time. One thing leads to another; Wednesday/ Thursday, the dots connect themselves.

A romantic escape, a spa visit, or a spiritual or retreat weekend could do wonders for your soul. Thursday through Sunday, you can be especially sensitized to noise, moods, vibes, drugs, or alcohol. Right time, right place: Monday/Tuesday, the shots are yours to call.

Tuesday onward, be on the lookout for something unexpected and seize your opportunity.

By Friday afternoon, you are likely to find yourself at a stop or finish line, but you won’t stay there for long. Still, you might not be into full swing until mid next week.

Saturday/Sunday, go with the flow. Monday/ Tuesday, take your time, bide your time, and handle essential priorities. Wednesday puts fresh fuel in your tank.

On Sunday, sun/Neptune brings you to a creative and personal peak. Now through month’s end is an especially rich time to explore new potentials or try a new you and a new lifestyle on for size. Stay bold—something very potent and timely is now in the works. You’ll catch a much stronger wind as the week progresses.

July 21 - August 22

July 21 - August 22

(April 21 - May 21)

(August 23 - September 22)

(December 21 - January 20)

(May 23 - June 20)

(September 23 - October 22)

(January 21 - February 18)

Answers available on www.TorontoCaribbean.com

(March 21 - April 20)

Across 3) Shades for your eyes [SUNGLASSES] 5) Batter up! [BASEBALL] 8) Refreshing fruit [WATERMELON] 9) Summer footwear [SANDALS] 11) Tube steak [HOTDOG] 12) Run through this [SPRINKLER] 13) Lunch in a basket [PICNIC] 15) Get on this and ride [BICYCLE] 17) Floats, bands and candy [PARADE] Down 1) Icy sweet drink [SLUSHIE] 2) Shade provider [UMBRELLA] 4) Take a dip [POOL] 6) Like pants, but shorter [SHORTS] 7) Taking a trip [VACATION] 10) Protects against sunburns [SUNSCREEN] 14) Cool creamy treat [ICECREAM] 15) Sandy area by the water [BEACH] 16) Two weeks in the wilderness [CAMP]

(June 21 - July 20)

(October 23 - November 21)

(February 18 - March 20)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

The power of contests Jim Pagiamtzis Business Development People love to win things! It’s been proven on television shows like The Price is Right and Wheel of Fortune. Did you know that you can do the same thing? You can create interest in your brand by having contests on relative topics that you share or offer in your business.

Events Many events give out complimentary tickets to encourage extra people to attend their event. This is a strategic way to offer your connections the opportunity to attend the

event; all they have to do is share why they would like to join you! This gets them to correspond with and be creative with their message.

Videos There are many video platforms from YouTube, Instagram and Social Cam that have given people the ability to share their lives.

This has created a whole new industry of endutainment (entertainment + education) Written You can also have your network share a written statement from quotes to links of interests. For many, this is a way to share stories about their success, overcoming challenges or learning new ways to enhance their business.

Having contests creates the atmosphere of having fun and at the same time uses platforms to share insights and expertise.

10 business insurance tips Sherene Cole

CIP, CRM, CAIB, LLQP

Insurance Matters

Adequate insurance coverage is one of those things that many business owners least think about, yet it should top your list of musthaves, when you decide to operate a business.

Things to follow when planning your business insurance needs: 1. Always seek advice from a reputable insurance broker to ensure you are getting the right coverage at a competitive price.

2. Make a checklist of everything you need to insure, including contents, equipment, tools, stock, inventory, additional locations, etc.

3. Purchase adequate liability limits. Something as simple as not clearing the snow at the entrance to your premises, in a timely manner or failing to deliver an order on time, can turn into a legal nightmare.

4. Consider errors and omissions coverage if you are in the business of providing professional advice, like doctors, immigration consultants, wedding planners etc. A mistake that causes a client to lose money could lead to a lawsuit.

5. Ensure you have appropriate coverage for employees including liability for their activities.

6. Where it makes sense, include business interruption insurance coverage. This provides coverage for ongoing expenses and lost income while your business operation is interrupted as a result of an insured loss.

7. Keep proper financial records. Tempted to do more cash deals? Consider this: in the event you present a claim for lost income

due to an interruption to your business operations, reimbursement will be based on the income your financial records substantiate.

Keep proper records and where possible invest in a point-of-sale (POS) system.

8. A personal car insurance plan will not automatically cover business usage. Any use of your vehicle for business must be declared when you apply for vehicle insurance or if you make a switch to business use during the policy term. Most insurance companies will not allow signage on a vehicle rated for personal use.

9. Look for ways to lower your premiums.

Installing a security system, for example, may reduce your premium, as will opting for a higher deductible.

10. Review your policies with your broker at least once a year, and any time there is a significant change to your business (e.g. a new product line, additional employees, increase sales, etc.).

SO WHAT IF YOU WORK FROM HOME? A common mistake for home based businesses, is assuming a home insurance policy will cover your business as well. Depending on your individual circumstances, your home insurance company may agree to extend coverage for your home based business, provided it meets their acceptability guidelines. My experience has been that in a great number of instances the type of business just does not fit the company’s profile and you will be required to purchase a separate business policy, or risk having your home insurance policy cancelled. Regardless of your reservations about the outcome, it’s important to discuss this matter with your insurance broker. Failing to do so could result in a claim being denied.

It would be my pleasure conduct a no-obligation coverage review, whether you have a new policy or looking to arrange new insurance.

For questions or comments, or to request a topic to be featured in future, please refer to the editorial section on page 5 for my contact information”.

Wednesday, February 26, 2014 29

30 Wednesday, February 26, 2014

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Is this REALLY a “guaranteed” investment?

Tina Dietz Business Development Back “in the day” when I was getting started in my business ventures I would hear about events or someone would tell me about training opportunities and I would be so excited!

I could see the juicy value, I could imagine how I would use what I learned…and then I would say, “Oh, not now. Maybe next time,” and I would soldier on. I spent many frustrating hours doing everything by myself, staying up late into the night and cursing at the computer.

What are your favorite excuses for not doing something you know is good for you or that would help you grow your business faster?

The top 2 for most folks are: 1) I don’t have the time.

2) I don’t have the money.

These are two of the most costly sentences in business. Most entrepreneurs end up costing themselves thousands of dollars in income and hundreds of hours in time because they think it’s too expensive to hire other people to help them with their websites, bookkeeping, marketing, administrative tasks, etc.

How much time do you spend avoiding, struggling with, or trying to learn how to do the parts of your business that you’re not good at?

The ONLY guaranteed investment in business is YOU. We get taught in school that you have to learn the long way before you can learn the short way, and we’re indoctrinated that we have to work hard for what we get in life. These lessons have their place, but sometimes we also have to make room to let go of old beliefs to make room for better, more effective ways of reaching our goals.

Here’s 3 of the most important lessons that me and my colleagues have learned from experience that accelerate business results, and save years of time and money.

Stop Being Busy It’s soooooo easy to open the internet and sud-

denly find yourself 2 hours later feeling deflated because you got sidetracked. Practice some Time Fu and take 10 minutes each morning to choose what your top 2-3 most important results will be for the day. Don’t open any website or email unless it pertains to those 2-3 things until you get them done. Rome will not burn if you don’t return an email immediately, or if you miss that funny picture that Suzy’s cousin shared. Finding yourself getting tempted to check Facebook “for just a couple minute break?” DON’T. Get up and get a glass of water or a cup of tea, take some breaths, stretch, go for a quick walk, or do some instant energy breaths but do not answer the siren song of the internet.

Ps. The same goes for suddenly needing to organize old receipts, files, run to the grocery store, or clean the bathroom. All that will wait until your 2-3 priorities are done.

Find People Who Know More Than You (*and listen to them!)

Have you ever had a friend or child who you just wish with all your heart would take your advice because you KNOW how much time, pain, money, etc. it would save them? That’s how advisors, coaches, and mentors feel about YOU. If you’re serious about having a profitable business, then find someone who you has proven results that you trust and work with

them. Do your due diligence in vetting who you’re working with, but then take the coaching and take the advice. Professionals who have been where you are help light the path, shorten the learning curve, and provide priceless resources, shortcuts, and ideas as well as hold up a mirror to your brilliance.

Selfishly Take Care of Yourself I admit I learned this one the hard way. I used to get totally pissed that my husband would come home from work and play a game or read a book instead of jumping into housework or helping the kids with homework like I did. After much gnashing of teeth, I finally decided that was going to mimic him. At first, this was to prove to him how much I was doing (a little righteous, were we? Yes we were.), but do you know what happened? EVERYTHING STILL GOT DONE. There was a bit of chaos at first as everyone adjusted to the fact that I wasn’t going to jump in and do everything, but my family quickly and easily decided that a happy and relaxed mom/wife was far superior to the stressed out version.

Here’s your mission if you choose to accept it. Choose something from this article that you’re going to try this week and post it in the Comments-then see how your week goes and let us know what happens!