A Brand New Year 010114

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A BRAND NEW YEAR Wow! It’s a brand new year ahead of us and I bet we are prepared for the thrill of our lives! Smile. Yes indeed, it is a magical year ahead of us. The second seventh year since the millennium is shown to be a sign of Good luck! Well ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, if you have no clue of what way you should make your New Year experience boast with excitement and make it an unforgettable golden memory, feast your ears on this wonderful advice I have to offer. All aboard passengers and prepare for the rollercoaster ride of your life…

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Preparing for a magical New Year in 2014 Ebony Narpatty TC Reporter

Nazia, 23, is an ambitious model from Mississauga, ON. Her portfolio includes print, music videos, promotional, runway, photoshoots, and band launches. Outside of modeling she will be graduating from Ryerson University with a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Business Management. She enjoys dancing, partying, traveling, and just living life to the fullest!

Continued From Page 1 -- Here we go…

Let’s get started now. First things first. We must make powerful and strong New Year’s resolutions. Let’s take a pen and a piece of paper and look at what we would like to accomplish for this grand year ahead. You must also have an action plan of how you will be going about fulfilling your dream. Secondly, it is always best to have a similar back up plan in case Plan A doesn’t work you move onto Plan B. A smart way of making your things to do list is to prioritize your goals or ambitions. It is an ideal idea if you can split your objectives first into a short – term goal list and a long – term goal list. Remember some plans take longer than some so if you see that your dream was not fulfilled in the one year lifespan you expected it to, keep on going, give it another shot, you may be building a stepping stone of progress towards it. Long term career oriented goals can take as much as 10 years to truly bloom and develop, depending on the career choice and what exactly you want to achieve out of it. If 4-5 years have passed and you see you are no longer reaching advancement in a specific topic area, I suggest you move onto something else. You wouldn’t want to waste your valuable time on this earth dealing with something that is not getting anywhere. Life also springs up new interests. It’s like the rigidity cycle I learned about in my first year degree class in Public Management. Life is like a ferris wheel. As ideas grow older and no longer fascinate you, they tend to fade away just like how children drop off from a ride of the ferris wheel after having a long ride which becomes boring after then new children join the ride i.e. new ideas come to mind.

Thirdly I must say, it is good to have a plan in life and get it on track and know what you are about and what you plan to do in the New Year. Many young girls my age envy that I have a head on my shoulder and know what I am doing and they are clueless about their life and look back and regret

all the time they have wasted. It is great to be self-motivated, ready to take on new challenges and keep a positive mind and spirit in order to make your days flow happy and nice. I am not saying you cannot have fun in the New Year as well. Yes you will update that old resume’, apply for that career or job you have been longing for, prepare to tackle that panel interview meeting, learn from your mistakes and keep focusing and moving towards your objective never allowing naysayers to pull you down or get in your way but now you need time for yourself.

Yes personal time is an ultimate satisfaction guaranteed. You need to plan a vacation with family, a friend or even by yourself. We all need down time to unwind every now and then. I am surely not telling anyone to kill themselves towards their dreams they are passionate about, there are coffee breaks, weekends and even taking a little time off to breathe and inhale all of what God has given us. Stop and smell the flowers, enjoy nature around you, be proud of the success you have built towards the years of your overall maturity and give yourself a treat towards that grand victory you have accomplished.

It is also good catching up with family by planning a family day or even to indulge in a good book by the seashore if you prefer to have some downtime on your own.

Be a butterfly, aim high towards the sky and be good so you can be as beautiful as a butterfly and blossom and fly away into the sky to reach the highest expectation you may have, as my dad once told me. It is great to be ambitious, a “Go Getter,” have deep dreams and wide aspirations, longing to endure future endeavours sketched out in life, wanting to encounter triumphant challenges and succeeding towards the bottom of it but most of all you have to gain full control over yourself, tell yourself I can do this, have that full powered self-esteem and optimistic confidence in oneself and you can do whatever you desire to. Always keep God first place, faith has a lot to do with things and as for Karma, I know some of you don’t like her but trust me, she works in mysterious ways.

If you do a good deed for someone don’t expect that same person to return a favour to you, It will never happen but someone who is a total stranger, who doesn’t even know you well, will return a bonus favour for you in the end. Trust me this is true, it has happened to me before and even some of my friends.

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Zoomers Kidʼs Christmas party collects food for Mississauga Food Bank TORONTO -- The Zoomers Association of Trinidad and Tobago in Canada (ZATTIC) ended a packed year of activities on a high note as Santa Claus dropped in on the group’s 5th annual Kids Christmas, held at the King Garden Residence in Mississauga on December 21st. The event also featured a food drive collection for the Mississauga Food Bank.

Excited children received toys from Santa and were treated to magic and balloon craft by Ken Das. Los Viejos, and the ZATTIC Parang band treated the more than 80 parents, 35 children and seniors, and members of King Gardens Residence to lively Parang and Christmas Carols. Parang is a lively Spanish based folk music style of Christmas carol singing popular in Trinidad and Tobago, and nearby Venezuela.

As is customary, members of ZATTIC brought mounds of traditional Christmas goodies for the Pot Luck table and also used the occasion to donate food to the Mississauga Food Bank. Founder of ZATTIC Mr. Steve Khan whished everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and invited members of the community to join ZATTIC and make a difference.

ZATTIC is a community group which has been very active since inception, doing community services and providing means for social integration and promoting Trinidad and Tobago heritage and culture in Canada. It has an active membership of several hundred people, most of whom have roots in Trinidad and Tobago or their friends and relatives.

NCPE against unprofessional conduct among CPG members GUYANA -- Chairman of the National Community Policing Executive (NCPE), Mr Omesh Satyanand, accompanied by National CPG Administrator Mr. Dennis Pompey, visited Ms Babita Jhaggroo and her family on 21st December to directly express deep regrets at the unfortunate death of her son Godfrey Jhaggroo, 20, who was fatally shot at Bellevue, West Bank Demerara around 19:00 hrs on December 18th, with a licensed firearm owned by the Chairman of the Bellevue Community Policing Group.

The victim had earlier been involved in an argument with his mother, during which a man, who resides next door and operates an off-licence liquor store, intervened and assaulted him with a piece of wood.

Jhaggroo was reportedly on his way to the Wales Police Station to lodge a complaint when he was confronted by three men, one of whom, a licensed firearm holder, had been at the off-licence liquor store. Jhaggroo was fatally shot to his back with a shotgun, and was later pronounced dead on arrival at the West Demerara Regional Hospital.

Harry ‘Sudesh’ Rajpat, 20, a me-

chanic, recently appeared before Magistrate Clive Nurse at the Wales Magistrates’ Court to answer a charge of murder involving the death of Godfrey Jhaggroo, and was remanded until February 20th, 2014.

Rajpat had been slapped with the murder charge shortly after the post-mortem had been performed on the body of Godfrey Jhaggroo, who also had resided in the same community and in close proximity to Rajpat’s home.

Jhaggroo had reportedly died from injuries received when a shotgun had been blasted at him from close range, the post mortem revealed.

The NCPE has declared itself as standing completely against any form of unprofessional conduct which besmirches the good image of community policing in Guyana; and the NCPE has also said it would sincerely support all efforts to ensure a satisfactory outcome from this tragic incident.

The NCPE expresses sincere condolences to all aggrieved persons at this time of their grief and sorrow. (Guyana Chronicle)

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A magical new year in 2014 Continued From Page 2 -- So now I need you to keep an agenda and a diary. The agenda tells you the things you have to do daily to upkeep your dream goal that you are in the process working towards. You may keep it in your phone if you don’t have a book to keep your personal information in or if your phone is more convenient towards your usage. It helps trust me. Also try to post a coloured sheet of paper on your wall in your room, outlining what you plan to do in your year ahead or in the next few years ahead. This will remind you all the time that you have a gifted purpose in life and you will become someone great one day, it is an only matter of time. Also, try not to make outside evil forces take control of your will power, do not make financial issues, transportation, family matters, spouses, jobs or anything get in the way. There is a plan in life written out for you, it is in the palms of your hands yet to be unfolded and loved ones should support whatever determined drive you would like to face. You are the conquering lion. You have the crown and you are ready to take full control of all matters of concern.

I know it was Christmas and I hope all of you had a jolly fun time with your families just last week and now there is the New Year’s celebrations that have been kicking in but we must get cracking. Please don’t wake up in the New Year with a hangover! Ugh! Have a plan created soon so that when the year passes by in a flash you will not wonder, “What did I do for the year?” Trust me, time flies by so fast so you have to keep yourself going. Think of life as a competition. Even though you might be the tortoise instead of the hare, remember the tortoise came from behind and surpassed the hare because he thought he had valuable time to waste, he was ahead of the game, but time caught up with him. Ooops! Yes time is an important element we must learn to manage. I know it can be hard but we have to have a daily schedule to keep our lives going. What time I am going to wake up to go to work; what time and what meal I am cooking for the day; when I am going to do my laundry; when I am going to finish off that important letter; when I am going to complete that thesis my boss has been yelling at me to get done and the list can go on. As I said before we have to prioritize our work to make it get done in a fast and efficient way. Yes you can have hobbies like writing, walking your dog etc… I don’t expect anyone to be a robot here people! I am just trying to identify the importance of the hour glass. I had to complete many projects before in the past on my own personal behalf to pass my grade for the University of Guyana and towards the Government of Guyana

concerning improving the No. 63 beach, Local government development and even countrywide development. I can tell you it was a lot of work and time contributed towards this worthy cause but at the end I fulfilled my desire of taking up a challenge of wanting to “Develop Guyana.” It did not bother me that they may have taken some ideas and not all and did not give me an award or position in return, it was the love of doing something for Guyana.

Christmas has just passed by and I do hope we were kind souls and not like scrooge or the Grinch that stole Christmas that were stingy towards others but instead showed kindness from the heart by helping others and giving towards public in need. I myself gave some assistance towards the church and charitable organisations and it feels so good when you can give back towards society. I am glad if more people can come out and do humanitarian work towards society by volunteering their efforts of helping out others in need. Sometimes it is not just about us, but it is about what we can do to improve our lives and the lives of others around us and we should be thankful about how fortunate we are and should not think only about getting the nice things in life.

Recollecting the year that had passed. Yes we must review our year and think about how we could have made it better. I am sure most of you would wonder, “How come I didn’t get much done in this year?” Please don’t make distractions in life hinder you from your progress. Some diversions can be texting, online social networks, talking on the phone for hours, being a TV freak, etc… Instead take this precious time and read a book you can gain some knowledge from, spend quality time with a loved one, learn a new language or how to sew, prepare a new exotic dish. There are so many things out there to do instead of minding people’s business.

My favorite song verse by Jimmy Cliff, famous Jamaican artist from “You can get it if you really want” would be… “Rome was not built in a day, opposition may come your way, but the hotter the battle may be, is the sweeter the victory now, You can get it if you really want, you can get it if you really want, you can get it if you really want, but you must try, try and try, try and try. You will succeed at last.” These motivating words have kept me going over the years and I do hope they can keep you striving towards the success of your lives too! I must conclude that there are many things out there to be accomplished but we must not forget who we are and what we can do to make this life a better place.

Good luck my readers in ringing in a marvellous 2014! Cheers!

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Chutney artiste Rajin Dhanraj dies at 24 TRINIDAD -- After nearly four months of ailing, 24-year-old chutney singer Rajin Dhanraj passed away at his home around 12.45 am Friday. The Go Nah\ singer was hospitalised on September 2 after a suspected case of pulmonary aspiration resulted in brain hypoxia. He was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex, Mt Hope, and was being fed intravenously until last Friday.

In a telephone interview Friday, Dhanraj’s brother, Ancil, told the T&T Guardian his family was still at a lost over what really caused the chutney star’s death. “From the time of his hospitalisation, the doctors could not really tell us what was wrong with him,” Ancil Dhanraj said. “He underwent 63 tests, inclusive of MRIs, CT scans, ultra-sounds and more, but none could ever reveal what was really wrong with him.”

He said although the doctors suspected the brain hypoxia may have caused some brain injury, hence Rajin’s inability to communicate or respond to family, none of the tests revealed the cause of the ailment. “My brother had a meal of crab and dumplings for dinner the night this occurred. It was suspected his food did not digest properly and caused him to aspirate. That’s all we know… that’s all we’ve been told,” said Dhanraj.

He said on the advice of the doctors, consultants and the neurotherapist working with his brother at the hospital, his family took his brother home last Friday for Christmas Day. “We spent almost $40,000 to prepare his room for him with all the machines and medical devices he needed. He even had 24 hours nursing care, but despite this he took a turn for the worse,” Dhanraj said. The elder brother said around 11 pm on Sunday, Rajin began hy-

perventilating and by 12.45 am he had passed on.

“It all happened so fast, and right now our family don’t even know how to move on from this,” Dhanraj said. “We just left forensics as an autopsy was ordered to see what caused his death, not even the pathologist knows what took him from us. He said some tests show that he may have developed pneumonia, but this is not official and further tests have to be done.” He added that Rajin, the youngest of three boys, was the family’s light and now that he is gone it will take a lifetime to let go.

“I do not know how we are going to move on without out him. He used to take the bucket, build a rhythm and sing for the family for any birthday celebration. Rajin, whose 18-day-old son died in June from similar complications, Ancil said, rose to fame when

he won Synergy’s TV Chutney Star in 2008.

In May, he also placed second in the National Chutney Monarch final. Rajin was also the owner of a clothing and jewelry store in Chaguanas.

Rajin was active as a performer on the campaign trail for both the United National Congress in 2010 and the Independent Liberal Party (ILP) this year. His funeral will take place tomorrow, beginning at his home at Williams Avenue, Welcome Road, Cunupia, from 8 am, before his body is taken to the Caroni cremation site where it will be cremated according to Hindu rites.

Friday, fellow artistes, including Ravi B, of Karma, and representative for Dil-E-Nadan and JMC 3veni, Fareid Emameli, said the chutney fraternity had lost someone who really made a difference in chutney music. (Trinidad Guardian)

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Akeem Adams in a coma TRINIDAD -- Doctors say there is nothing more they can do for footballer Akeem Adams who slipped into a coma on Saturday night after suffering a massive stroke. The 22-year-old Ferencvaros player had been waiting for a heart transplant for the past three months after suffering a heart attack in Hungary in September. He has been warded in the ICU of Városmajori Heart Clinic in Budapest. According to a report on the Soca Warriors Web site, Adams suffered serious bleeding to his brain as a result of the stroke.

“It seems like only a miracle can save him now,” said a source, who preferred to remain anonymous until Ferencvaros made an official statement. “Even if he does come through, the damage to his brain could mean that he is not the same again. It is really horrible news.” The official Ferencvaros Web site confirmed that Adams’ condition has become critical but asked for patience and that the privacy of the player be respected.

The sudden downward turn in Adam’s condition came as a shock to his family and friends back in T&T since on Boxing Day he had spoken to several of them and said he was in good spirits and that doctors expected to perform the transplant on February 4. Adams has been in a Budapest heart clinic since he suffered a massive heart attack in his apartment. He had been based in

Hungary since August on a year-long contract with top football club Ferencvarosi TC. The 22-year-old was taken to a Budapest hospital after complaining of dizziness after his club scored a 3-1 win over arch-rivals Ujpest. Adams had played six matches for the 26-times Hungarian champions. One of his teammates, Tamas Csilus, recalled: “After training we were talking a lot and smiling and even dancing a bit. Then, about three hours after, Akeem called the woman at the club and said he wasn’t feeling good. “Ten minutes later we found him out at his home and he was rushed to the hospital.”

After the heart attack, Adams underwent four emergency operations, including one in which he was fitted with an artificial heart and a life-saving procedure in which his left leg was surgically removed due to necrosis (cell death) in that limb. That complication arose because of the collapse of Adam’s circulation following the heart attack.

The surgery was successful and Adams’ circulation stabilised but his condition remained critical. Chief cardiologist at Hungary’s National Sport Centre Dr Szelid Zsolt had said on club’s Web site that the surgeries prevented the possibility of further heart attacks but Adams’ vascular system was still critical.

Adams’ health had improved last

month and doctors were hopeful that he would have been strong enough for a heart transplant before Christmas. However, the anticipated transplant never materialised because of slow healing following the amputation of his leg.

In T&T, thousands of concerned citizens purchased “I support Akeem” Tshirts from Native Spirit, as part of a Trinidad and Tobago Football Association’s Heart of a Warrior fund-raising drive for the player.

Help also came from private groups, including the SocaWarriors.net fan site, his alma mater, Presentation College, San Fernando, and Pro League clubs, DirecTV W Connection and Central FC. Hundreds of people in Budapest donated blood to the critically ill, who had only joined the Hungarian top flight club in August. Companies there donated thousands of euros to his care and Ferencvaros paid for Adams’ mother Ancilla Dick, and brother Akini Adams to travel to Hungary on September 28 to be at his side. Adams made his professional debut in 2008 with W Connection, before moving to United Petrotrin a season later.

He received a trial with the Seattle Sounders of Major League Soccer and played the second half of an international friendly against Chivas de Guadalajara on October 12, 2010, in Seattle. (Trinidad Guardian)

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Police probing whether obsession led to nursing student, friendʼs death JAMAICA -- A relationship with an obsessed and abusive man is being blamed for the murder of two female cousins, one of whom had only returned from New York on a visit a day before the brutal killings.

Relatives of victim Franciena Johnson — a 19-year-old nursing student of addresses in Jacob’s Hut, in May Pen, Clarendon and Brooklyn, New York — told the Jamaica Observer on Friday that her relations with her boyfriend, whom the police have named as a person of interest in the murders, had been rife with abuse.

According to relatives, the boyfriend had in the past threatened to take Johnson’s life if she ended the relationship.

On Friday, December 20 — on what was supposed to be the three-year anniversary of their relationship — Johnson’s body was fished from the Salt Marsh River in Clarendon after residents phoned the police about explosions in the area.

The body, which had multiple gunshot wounds, was discovered hours after a missing person report was filed with the May Pen police regarding Johnson and her cousin Nordia Fearon, 19, who is of a Foga Road address in Salt River.

Fearon’s body was recovered from the river three days later.

The Clarendon police on Friday named Johnson’s boyfriend, Ricardo Grey, as a person of interest in the murders.

Grey is also known as Baugh, Liston Dixon and Liston Grey. He is said

to frequent Greater Portmore and Spanish Town in St Catherine; Western Park, Farm/Effortville, Buck’s Avenue, Bucknor, Buck’s Common, Longville Park/Salt River in Clarendon; Little London in Westmoreland; and Spaldings and Christiana in Manchester.

On Friday, the Sunday Observer visited relatives of the murdered teens in Clarendon. At Fearon’s father’s yard, a black banner, bearing pictures of the teen, hung above the gateway. Similar pictures were mounted around the community.

A large group of relatives, their faces hung with mournful expressions, was gathered at the yard.

They told the Sunday Observer that Grey was “very jealous” of Johnson and that he didn’t want her talking to anyone.

“Franciena had issues with her boyfriend,” said a cousin. “He kept threatening that he’s going to kill her if she leaves.”

They related instances when Grey allegedly assaulted Johnson, including an incident at a dance they had attended before Johnson migrated to the United States to live with her mother over a year ago.

Emily Johnson, the victim’s grandmother by her father’s side, said that her granddaughter was indeed abused but that she never reported it to the police.

The grandmother said that about two years ago Johnson visited her with a

swollen face and refused to say what had happened.

“I said to her, ‘I know that you were fighting or your boyfriend beat you up’, but she didn’t respond,” the elderly Johnson told the Sunday Observer.

She said she told her granddaughter to take Grey to her, which she did. She said she scolded Grey and asked him why he assaulted the person he claimed to love, but he kept his head hung and said nothing.

At the end of it all, Johnson said, she told Grey, “If you find that you and her can’t [get along] leave her out, but don’t put back your hand on her.”

Ironically, Johnson said that when she first met Grey, after hearing that he was in a relationship with her granddaughter, she told him that she didn’t “send her out to look boyfriend” and asked him to “take care of her and don’t ill treat her”.

His response, she said, was that he loved her granddaughter.

The woman said she found it strange that Grey had picked up Johnson at the airport when she arrived on the island on Thursday and that no one has seen him in the area since the bodies were found and that he called no one in the family to enquire about what had happened.

A cousin of the teen said that Grey had picked up Johnson and Fearon in May Pen on Friday evening.

But while Grey may not have called any relatives of Johnson, he was

actively making postings on his Facebook wall. He didn’t address comments from Johnson’s friends who wanted to know what had happened.

“2day mek 3 years now mi an u a tlk y u affi left mi 2 day crying...,” he said in one post. “Candy no,” he said in another.

In another set of postings a Facebook friend said she heard that Johnson was killed by her boyfriend.

Another friend told her that “Liston is her boyfriend”.

Grey, who appears on Facebook as Liston Dixon, posted in response, “yes she is mi wife an dem kill r crying...”

The Facebook friend, who said she heard that the boyfriend did the killing, later responded: “I know that’s y I was puzzled.”

A cousin of Johnson’s told the Sunday Observer that she had broken off the relationship with Grey but still had him listed on her Facebook page as her boyfriend.

A funeral service for Johnson is scheduled for Saturday at a location to be announced.

Meanwhile, Fearon’s mother, Arlene Robinson, said that her daughter’s killer should be brought to justice. She said her daughter was a “loving and kind person, who got along with everyone”.

This would have been her last year at Knox College. (Jamaica Observer)

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2013 - A year that stimulated further housing developments GUYANA -- The year 2013 has been another very busy one for the Housing Ministry and its executing arm, the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), as they led the government’s grand strategy of providing housing, both for low-income Guyanese and other categories.

Obviously, the demand is still great as measured by the number of One Stop Shops held, and the quantum of lots allotted at each of these strategic engagements. Thus, with a budgetary allocation of $3.1B, the stage was again set for one of the necessities that is central to any human being’s daily life – the acquisition of shelter.

Several new initiatives were announced and implemented in keeping with the visionary plan of making affordable housing available to Guyanese, even as there was continued focus on the distribution of lots, the development of new sustainable housing schemes, increased provision of turn-key housing, and expansion of the core houses concept.

New Initiatives Beginning with the key initiative introduced in 2013 to boost home ownership, this intervention, a significant tax relief, will cost the government $580M annually in revenue, and will benefit tens of thousands of first-time home owners. Named the Mortgage Income Relief (MIR), it allows first-time homeowners who have been granted mortgages up to $30M by commercial banks or building societies, mortgage interest relief. This measure has since been signed into law, thereby establishing the regulatory foundation for this process.

The hinterland segment of the national housing drive received a tremendous boost as a result of a collaborative effort between the Government of Guyana and the Inter-American Development Bank to address housing needs in the hinterland. Under the second Low Income Settlement (LIS-2) Programme, roof replacements will be done for 86 houses, while 122 new homes will be built.

Twenty-three households in White Water, Region 1 (Barima/Waini) received keys to their new homes on October 31, while 27 others had their roofs refurbished.

On November 1, the beneficiaries in Region 9 communities which include Kwatamang, Central Annai, Massara, Katoka and Apoteri received keys to their homes. Beneficiaries in Manawarin, Region 1, had received theirs earlier in the year.

The latest move in the turnkey concept also saw the Perseverance Scheme on the East Bank of Demerara earmarked for the development of 1,000 homes valued $4.7M each.

The ministry’s 2013 work programme had projected the allocation of over 6,000 houselots, and distribution of over 4,000 land titles. In this regard, the innovative mechanism of the One Stop Shop system was employed at 10 different locations

across the country for the fulfilment of this goal.

A total of 8,500 lots were allocated and 7,000 titles distributed during 2013.

Among the locales visited by this unique process were Farm on the East Bank of Demerara, where 1600 lots were allocated;1200 for Lust-en-Rust, Region 3;775 at Kilcoy/ Chesney, Region 6 (East Berbice Corentyne) ; 85 lots for Zeelugt Phase 2; 840 lots for Zeelugt Phase; and 360 at Onderneeming, on the Essequibo Coast.

Since its introduction in 2009, there have been 53 One Stop Shops, and Government has been subsidising these houselot allocations by more than 40%.

In November, the Minister of Housing and Water, Irfaan Ali, had indicated that the ministry’s staff had completed all the 2013 proposed programmes, among which were construction of over 200 core homes, 50 turnkey homes, and the distribution of 200 home improvement subsidies for families on the coastland and 125 hinterland families.

Also completed were 200 community roads under the US $18.7M Community Road Improvement Project (CRIP).

East Bank corridor The East Bank corridor, now a transformed geographical area of astounding modernity, has continued to attract exponential sums for its continued socio-economic development. For 2013, a grand total of $5.8B was invested on its continued development. This catered for investments at Providence Phase 3, where the sum of $731M was expended for the creation of 558 new lots; at Farm, where $1.4B was invested for 1695 lots; Plantation Perseverance, where for 200 lots, $90M was spent; and at Plantation Eccles, $40M was utilised for 70 lots.

Also included, was $680M spent on the Farm to Diamond Access Road, $450M on the construction of 120 single-flat homes at Providence; $154M that has resulted in levels of upgrade to roads at Great Diamond and Golden Grove, benefiting 1000 lots in these schemes; and $544M spent to upgrade to asphaltic surface, the Cacique and Greenfield Park entrances.

It must be emphasised that from 2000 to 2012, investments on the East Bank by the CH&PA have totalled $17B. This huge sum has created 13,000 new lots in areas including Great Diamond, Golden Grove, Little Diamond, Mocha, Eccles, Herstelling and Kaneville, benefiting more than 54,000 people.

Collaboration with private sector Several successful partnerships with the private sector were fostered yet again towards the provision of reasonably priced home home ownership. Included in this initiative were: discussions with Courts Furniture Store to have a special line of furniture made for low and middle-income home owners; an MOU signed with Harris Paints, Guyana

Limited to allow low and low middle-income earners, staff of the ministry, and contractors who are working on the “turn-key” houses, to benefit from a price discount of seven percent on paints.

Building Expo With the successful take-off of the housing sector, the Ministry of Housing initiated the Building and Construction Expo with the aim of responding to the housing and building needs of Guyanese, and to foster home ownership.

The fourth such event in 2013 highlighted the theme: “Consolidating partnerships for sustainable development” and attracted over 80 booths. It was this venue at which SILICA city, the new housing venture earmarked for the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, was unveiled. The ministry proposed the latter, new housing development as a viable solution to the country’s housing needs, taking into consideration environmental consequences, and technological changes, inclusive of rising sea levels and the availability of land.

Praises - In September, whilst on a visit to Guyana, and after being taken on tour of a few of Guyana’s housing schemes, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves, said that the Government’s housing programme was extraordinary, describing it as unlike any other in the Caribbean, including that of St. Vincent and the Grenadines which is reputed to be the best.

2014 and onwards With great vision, Government’s housing programme will continue, where all Guyanese will be given a fair chance to fulfil one of life’s greatest achievements: to own a home.

The ministry is targeting in 2014, the construction of 500 turn-key homes and the execution of the design for Silica City.

The Ministry of Housing and Water will advertise and provide sustained employment for masons, skilled men, carpenters, and labourers to work with the ministry on the construction of the different types of homes that are made available under the ministry’s programmes.

It will complete a few new schemes including Zeeburg and the expansion of Zeelugt in Region 3 (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara), the continued expansion of the East Bank corridor to bring about another 3000 lots, completing the new highway into Parfait Harmonie that would realise a new access almost to the Demerara Harbour Bridge, completing the asphaltic concrete paving of four collectors’ roads between Eccles to Little Diamond, and will work on some main arteries into Sophia.

Focus will also be on working with the Ministry of Finance to find resources to expand the hinterland housing programme.

(Guyana Chronicle)

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TACKLE Project will continue GUYANA -- Minister of Labour, Dr. Nanda Gopaul, has given the assurance that the ministry is making representation at the governmental level to ensure that the project which provided free transportation to and from school to students on the SoesdykeLinden Highway and hot meals, continues in the new school term, even though funds from the donor, the International Labor Organization (ILO) have run dry.

Some 360 children from the Kuru Kuru Nursery Class, Kuru Kuru Primary School and the Dora Secondary on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway had benefited from the ILO programme named Tackling Child Labour through Education (TACKLE) over the past two years.

The TACKLE programme was funded to the tune of US $223,000 by ILO and the International Programme for the Elimination of Child Labor (IPEC) which is sponsored by the European Union (EU) and with M$3.3GD counterpart funding from the Government of Guyana.

The project had assisted schoolaged students living along the highway to get easily to and from school; giving them nutritional support in the form of a balanced meal three days per week and a range of other support services, including numeracy and literacy programmes and remedial classes.

Dr. Gopaul recently disclosed that prior to the programme average attendance at the schools, which are all housed in the compound formerly occupied by the Kuru Kuru College two and half miles off the highway, had ranged between 40 and 50% occasionally reaching 60%

He said that the programme had resulted in 100% attendance at the schools and had been a remarkable success in bringing children off the streets and back to school .

He noted that the schools are playing an important role in educating children on the highway and his ministry wants to see them continue doing so.

He said: “We are making representation at the level of the Government to have monies put into the budget to ensure that we can transport those children along the highway. We don’t mind if it goes into the budget of the Ministry of Education but we want to see those children continue at school; to ensure that their education is not affected by the distance that they have to traverse to reach school.”

The ILO-funded programme had been initiated by the Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security (ML&HSS) in September 2011 last under the name School Retention and Child Labour Prevention Programme,(SR&CLPP).

The Ministry of Education assisted with the implementation.

Funds allocated ran out in July 2013 but the ILO was so pleased about its success that it found funds to keep at least two components, free transportation and free meals going, until the end of this school term.

The funds have now been completely exhausted prompting some amount of uncertainty,but also optimism among the beneficiaries, that the government would step in and take up the slack. (Guyana Chronicle)

Child Protection Task Force report submitted TRINIDAD -- The Child Protection Task Force submitted its first report to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar on Christmas Eve. Chairman of the Task Force Diana Mahabir-Wyatt said the report, which focused on the Children’s Authority, needed to be discussed at Cabinet level before anything further could be done. Asked if the report contained only recommendations, MahabirWyatt said it contained recommendations for certain actions to be taken.

“Hopefully, by the end of January we will be able to get whatever permissions and approvals for what needs to be done,” she said. She said staffing of the Authority is still one of the main issues, but this could not be done without Cabinet approvals.

Mahabir-Wyatt expects the report to be discussed by Cabinet during its first meeting for the new year.

The task force was created early this month on the heels of an increase in incidents of violence against children and in response to the brutal death of six-year-old Keyana Cumberbatch, who was found in a barrel in her apartment after being killed and sexually assaulted. The suspect in Keyana’s murder is currently at the St Ann’s Medical Centre undergoing a psychiatric assessment.

“This task force was put together for the purpose of taking action not just recommendations and we are hoping that it will not take another six months to get done.” “We

are still optimistic that by the end of January we will have actual positive results.” “We will have action on our recommendations,” Mahabir-Wyatt said. The task force, which was officially established on December 5, is still doing background work before moving forward with other reports.

One of the biggest problems the task force is facing, is a lack of statistics on children and child abuse. The lack of statistics is an issue that has been repeated across various sectors in this country. “Every organisation keeps its own statistics and we have one group working specifically on gathering all this information and another group working on what is needed to coordinate the different legislation that affects children.” The task force is also looking at establishing standards for childrens homes in this country.

Mahabir-Wyatt said the more than 50 children homes in this country had no consistent standards and ranged from licensed homes where children were well taken care of, to places where children were taken from abusive situations, only to be placed in those same situations in children’s homes. Earlier this month, a letter was sent from the Children’s Authority to the Ministry of Gender, Youth and Child Development regarding reports of sexual abuse at a children’s home in East Trinidad. (Trinidad Guardian)

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Holder, Windies keen to build on strong start NEW ZEALAND -- Jason Holder said West Indies are eager to build on the momentum they gained from their victory in the first One-day International against New Zealand.

The lanky Windies fast bowler was speaking ahead of the second ODI, a day/night fixture which was scheduled to take place last night Caribbean Time at McLean Park here. The visitors lead the five-match series 1-0, after a two-wicket victory in a low-scoring contest in a day/night affair at Eden Park in the New Zealand Super City of Auckland. “It was a good start to the series for us, exactly what we wanted, the momentum going into the next few games,” said Holder. “Obviously, the result were not what we wanted coming out of the preceding Test series and so the captains have changed, the mood has changed, so we are in a different spirit and heading forward.” “We have a really good team spirit going right now. It is very important that we find ways to keep it going and keep improving. We are looking towards the 2015 World Cup, so it all starts here and every series we play until then.”

Holder collected two wickets in the first ODI and made a significant impact with the new ball alongside Ravi Rampaul and was keen to continue in this vein. “The early over were very crucial in the game,” he said.

“We felt there was a bit in the pitch early on so we tried to make full use of it. I didn’t get the wickets up front, but Ravi got two early scalps, so my job was to keep it tight.

I came back for my second spell and got a

couple wickets so I’m enjoying the dynamic between Ravi and myself.” The McLean Park pitch looked to be a belter on the eve of the match and Holder recognised the short square boundaries could be a challenge in trying to keep a lid on the New Zealanders’ batting. “As a professional, you always have to make adjustments to your game to accommodate the conditions,” he said. “We will have to see how it goes with the first few overs, it’s a smaller ground and then make the adjustments. “I am constantly working on my game. I’m working on putting on a few more miles an hour and try to get the ball through a little quicker. At this time, I am taking it stage by stage. I am not fighting it, trying to bowl faster at the expense of accuracy. I think the speed will come in time as I get stronger and play more cricket and it will become a great asset.”

The 22-year-old Holder is on his first trip to New Zealand with the senior West Indies side, although it’s not unfamiliar territory for him. He was a member of the Young West Indies side that played in the ICC Youth World Cup here four years ago.

Holder said he wanted to use every opportunity to cement his place in the side with a view to earning a place in the Test side.

“Obviously, Test cricket is the point where I want to get,” he said. “At the moment, the selectors have not chosen me for Test matches, but I will just keep doing what I am doing and I will hopefully get there soon.

“I believe playing Tests would improve my

cricket a lot more. I would have more time in the middle bowling, as well as batting, since I consider myself a decent batsman. At this stage, it is just about getting here and staying here.” Holder has identified former Barbados and West Indies fast bowler Ezra Moseley as the major influence on his bowling during his high school years when he was a student of The St. Michael School, located in the Barbados capital of Bridgetown.

He however, has come under the direction of West Indies fast bowling legend Curtly Ambrose playing for the Combined Campuses & Colleges in the West Indies first-class and domestic limited-overs tournaments, and Courtney Walsh, another West Indies fast bowling legend, when he played for the Young Windies, but revealed other influences. “We have some pretty good legends like Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh to whom I looked up to when I was a kid,” he said. “I also learnt a lot from watching Andrew Flintoff in the 2005 Ashes – which I think was one of the best series I have ever watched in my life. I just try to emulate those types of bowlers because they were tall like me and I try to do best.” On working closely with Ambrose, he said: “Ambrose was a disciplinarian and he tried to get my bowling as precise as possible. He would always stress on the fine things and worked on getting me to bowl as consistently as possible.” (Trinidad Guardian)

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Caribbean Pot: The worlds hottest pepper sauce using Trinidad Moruga Scorpion and Ghost Peppers Chris De La Rosa Caribbean Cooking At the time of putting this recipe together the Trinidad Moruga Scorpion was the hottest pepper in the world and in all honesty it was indeed pure fyah! I had never tasted anything as hot and some may think I’m nuts for using them in a pepper sauce. However there’s news coming out of the US that the Carolina Reaper and the Chocolate Bhutla peppers now holds the record for the world’s hottest pepper.

Every summer I do the best with the little area of free space in our back yard and do a little gardening. This year I was fortunate to get an assortment of very hot pepper plants from a local nursery and the crop at the end of the summer was quite plentiful. Along with the Trinidad Moruga Scorpion I planted the Bhut Jolikia, Choco-

llate la ate B hutt JJo hu oli lik ikia, C hoco ho cola late late te S cotc co tch Bonn B Bo onnnnet et, t, Bhut Jolikia, Chocolate Scotch Bonnet, Scotch Bonnet, Habanero and the Seven Pod pepper.

So here’s my take on the worlds hottest peppersauce…

You’ll Need: 25-30 HOT peppers * 1/2 cup cilantro chopped 3/4 teaspoon sea salt 1 cup vinegar 10 cloves garlic 1/2 lemon This recipe works great with any type of hot pepper, but I used a combination of Trinidad Moruga Scorpion, Bhut Jolikia, Chocolate Bhut Jolikia, Chocolate Scotch Bonnet, Scotch Bonnet, Habanero and the Seven Pod pepper. You may need a bit more than the 1 cup of vinegar, depending on the consistency you like your pepper sauce. Also note that this is a raw pepper sauce, but you can certainly cook it after you’ve blended it together.

I went for heat and didn’t concentrate too much on added flavor, so you’ll notice I kept things basic, with the use of garlic, cilantro (wish I had shado beni) and

1/2 of a lemon.

Basically all you have to do is give everything a rough chop to make it easier for your blender or food processor to work it into the consistency you like. Remove the seeds from the lemon and cut it into pieces, including the skin. IMPORTANT Be sure to wear gloves, open your kitchen window for ventilation and DO wash your hands with soap and water immediately after handling such lethal peppers.

Place all the ingredients in the blender and pulse, then liquefy to a some-

what thick but smooth consistency. For maximum HEAT, do include the pepper seeds.

As mentioned, you may need a bit more vinegar and depending on your tolerance for salt you may need to adjust this as well. Store in a glass container (sterilize first) in your kitchen cupboard or in the fridge where it could easily last upwards of 6 months.

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The benefits of chanting (Mantra Yoga) Geeta Maraj Yoga We often view chanting as a spiritual practice.

The term chanting brings to mind Buddhist monks in their saffron robes, creating a form of vocal melody that is soothing to the ear. However, chanting is more common than we realize and is present in every culture. This ancient practice continues to stand the test of time for its multifarious benefits to our health, mental focus, perseverance and spiritual advancement.

A chant can vary from a single syllable or word to a series of words. In Hinduism the word or phrase that is chanted is known as a mantra. Today mantra is used loosely to meaning a ‘formula’. Indeed this formula holds such power that it is worth exploring its benefits to our health and well-being.

All religions whether consciously or otherwise, practice some form of chanting. In Christianity, reciting the name of ‘Jesus’ at the end of each praise to God constitutes a mantra. In Catholicism, saying ‘Hail Mary Full of Grace’, repeatedly, is a form of mantra recitation. In Islam, ‘Allahu Akbar’ (God is great) remains a popular mantra for Muslims. Similarly in Buddhism ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’ (the jewel in the lotus of the heart) is chanted to produce

the same result of deep spiritual potency.

Through chanting, thoughts become more focused, thereby creating greater mental and emotional strength. A chant also serves to control the busy mind, and can be used as a way to conquer health issues, such as depression, hypertension and cardiac problems. The ultimate goal of chanting or mantra recitation however, is to find a spiritual connection to a supreme being, and even in this doing, we ultimately discover our personal inner power and strength.

From a yogic perspective, the practice of chanting is called Mantra Yoga, also referred to as Japa Yoga. Mantra Yoga is one of the approximately 40 different types of yogic practices, all of which are interconnected. Mantras can be chanted in many forms. They can be spoken verbally (Vaikhari Japa), recited mentally (Manasika Japa), whispered or hummed (Upamsu Japa), or written (Likhita Japa). These various types of japa can be combined to improve focusing of the mind.

Chanting serves to quiet the busy mind. A busy mind causes stress to be built up in the body and is the key cause of many ailments that are a norm in today’s society. With a calmer mind, daily tensions and frustrations are subdued and we become more accepting of our experiences. In time, one finds, through mantra recitation, issues such as, depression, stress and anxiety, gradually dissipate as we learn to disconnect from aggressive and angry tendencies.

With a calmer mind, we evolve into beings of greater compassion and love, consequently tapping into our natural inner state of peacefulness, calmness, courage, and patience.

Unlike meditation, which requires self-discipline, will power and a serene environment, mantra yoga can be practiced at any time

under varying situations. The healing power and health benefits arising from chanting are especially valuable during onerous experiences as it helps to disconnect us from the situation at hand. This is advantageous in preventing one from becoming overtly involved with the mundane trivialities of everyday life, protecting us against anger, stress and depression.

In Hinduism, the eventual goal of mantra recitation is achieving what is termed ‘ajapa-japam’. The first letter “a” means without, “japam” means repetition of a mantra.

Hence ‘ajapa-japam’ means, subconsciously repeating a mantra without mentally commencing the chant. In other words, it is the means by which the consciousness repeats a mantra when the mind is preoccupied by the routines of daily life. Such a skill is achieved only through constant practice of mantra yoga. The benefit of ‘ajapa-japam’ is that one subconsciously nourishes the inner spiritual Self. An added benefit to ‘ajapa-japam’ is that when faced with a trying experience, your subconscious slips into a mental chant, which you slowly become aware of, and quickly gain detachment from the exigent situation.

Chanting is a unique and irreplaceable mean to overcoming many of life’s daily challenges. The fact that it has existed in all cultures lends additional weight of its importance to our well-being. Chanting builds inner courage, self-esteem, keeps our heart rate under control, helps to prevent organ damage through stress build up in our body, and additionally strengthens our spiritual focus. Through the practice of Mantra Yoga, we have the capability of freeing ourselves from the ailments that the stresses of daily life produce

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NSW Government seeks unprecedented power to censor and punish health activists and practitioners The New South Wales (NSW) Health Care Complaints Committee has convened an inquiry into “The Promotion of False or Misleading Health-Related Information or Practices.” The Terms of Reference (ToR) for this inquiry are sobering to say the least and read more like a pharmaceutical wish list than legislation that would benefit Australian citizens.

The Committee, which is responsible for the NSW Health Care Complaints Commission (HCCC), defines information that is not supported by “accepted” medical practice as being “false and misleading” and seeks to punish and silence anyone who either publicly discusses, uses or dispenses non-mainstream remedies.

This inquiry appears to have been motivated by the HCCC’s loss to the Australian Vaccination Network (AVN) in the Supreme Court in 2012. The HCCC sought to sanction the AVN for providing “dangerous, deceptive and misleading” information simply because that information was in contravention of “accepted medical practices.”

The Supreme Court stated that the HCCC had acted illegally in either investigating or citing the AVN. Since that embarrassing loss to a small, unfunded parents’ support group, the

HCCC has sought increased powers from Parliament specifically for the purpose of attacking the AVN and other individuals and organizations critical of current government health policy.

The REAL purpose of the HCCC These actions are extremely ironic since the original purpose of the HCCC was to protect the public from dangerous health practitioners. Today, it would appear to an informed observer that the real purpose of this body is to protect dangerous practitioners and practices from the general public.

The HCCC’s sordid recent history includes its failure to act in the case of Graeme Reeves, known as the Butcher of Bega. Reeves was accused of mutilating and abusing over 500 women, many of whom filed complaints against him with the HCCC. Over more than a decade, they failed (or refused) to act any of these complaints.

Is the HCCC above the law?

Prior to the HCCC’s court loss, that organization was already one of the most powerful in Australia, being immune to either subpoena or GIPA (Freedom of Information) claims.

In 2013 however, the HCCC was granted the right to file complaints against

organizations or individuals - without any evidence of harm - and then investigate and punish those they themselves had complained about, making them judge, jury and executioner.

If Parliament grants the HCCC the powers being discussed by this inquiry, then they may be able to stop anyone from discussing, practicing or using natural therapies.

Speak out to protect health rights Submissions from the public are being accepted until February 7, 2014. Those who are interested in supporting and protecting health rights and freedom of speech are urged to write a brief submission (3-4 paragraphs) explaining why you believe that suppression of health discussions is not in the public interest.

The Committee website contains information on how to make a submission as well as the ToR for the inquiry and other important details.

This is an unprecedented attack on health rights which must be strenuously opposed whether you live in Australia or elsewhere.

(NaturalNews)

Ruta-what? The Root Vegetable You Should Be Eating Rutabaga, round and with a slightly waxy outer coating, may over be passed up in the grocery store for its somewhat unusual appearance. Or, many people may simply be unsure of what exactly a rutabaga is, under the impression that it’s strictly for use in soups or meant only to be consumed with other foods.

So here’s the scoop Rutabaga, referred to as a “swede” in other parts of the world outside of the United States, is an antioxidant-rich root vegetable with a sweet yet unmistakably bitter flavor.

Technically, it is a cross between cabbage and a turnip.

Its roundness is characteristic of its shape, although there may be variations in size. While purchasing a large rutabaga may seem tempting, fight the urge. Grapefruitsized ones that are free of visible marring like cuts or bruises are ideal.

A rutabaga can be eaten either raw or cooked. Either way, be sure to peel its skin

just as you would a potato, then cut it according to your preference (sliced, cubed . . .).

A great raw food rutabaga snack involving just three additional, common ingredients is explained in the video above.

that with its fiber content and low calorie make-up (one cup has approximately 66 calories) and it’s also an ideal food to incorporate as part of a weight loss or weight maintenance routine.

Top 4 Health Benefits of Rutabaga Colon & Digestive Health With 12 percent of the recommended daily value of fiber, rutabaga is very good for regulating your digestive system, helping the stomach produce the necessary bacteria that creates bile. Bile is instrumental in helping maintain levels of electrolytes which help prevent dehydration while also allowing the small intestine to properly absorb vitamins.

A well-functioning digestive system keeps OUR BUTTS HEALTHY.

Cancer-Fighting Rutabagas are a phytochemical powerhouse, rich in sulfur compounds known as isothiocyanates. These compounds, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, may play a role in removing carcinogens from our bodies. Furthermore, rutabagas are cruciferous. Like other cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, they are known to aid in fighting cancer.

Weight Control Rutabaga contains all essential dietary minerals, especially magnesium and potassium, both of which are responsible for regulating metabolism and muscle contraction. Couple

Improves Asthma It’s suggested that vitamin C, which rutabaga is abundant in, may help keep wheezing in asthma patients at bay. One cup contains approximately 53 percent of the recommended daily value. (NaturalNews)

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The holiday wonder-spice Natalie Norman

The Obedient Omnivore

Health Tips The holiday season is here and the sweet aroma of baked Christmas holiday goods hits our noses, Caribbean delights such as grilled pineapple glazed with caramel sauce, cinnamon rum sauce, pine tarts which can contain cinnamon, banana bread pudding, currant rolls, fritters, butternut squash soup, sweet potatoes spiced, hot porridge, and not to mention the classic Caribbean Christmas Black Cake are being made to perfection...do you know what all these rich Caribbean recipes share in common? CINNAMON! The Obedient Omnivore’s ingredient

of the week is CINNAMON! In North America we usually think of cinnamon as a spice that we use for baking, but in many other parts of the world it is used in savoury dishes! Can you believe that a mere teaspoon of cinnamon contains 28 mg of calcium, almost 1 mg of iron, over 1 gram of fiber, and quite a lot of vitamins C, K, and manganese? It’s true. It also contains about 1/2 a gram of “usable” (non-fiber) carbohydrate.

A noticeable characteristic of Caribbean food is the use of peppered seasoning, spices, dressings, and herbs for distinct flavour. True Caribbean kitchens contain a variety of chutneys, preserves, flavoured rums, and dry spices fresh to make home-made meat, fish, and poultry rubs as well as seasonings for vegetables, salads, beans, and rice. Cinnamon attributes to this authentic Caribbean flavour.

Cinnamon is available in both stick and powder form. It should be handled with care to obtain the highest amount of potency.

• Seal cinnamon in a tightly sealed glass container and store in a cool, dark, dry place. Use a jelly jar or canning materials for best results.

• Ground cinnamon can be kept fresh for up to six months. Cinnamon sticks may stay fresh for up to one year.

• Extend cinnamon’s shelf life by storing the spice in the refrigerator in a wellsealed container.

• Smell the cinnamon to check for freshness. Make sure it has a sweet smell — a true indicator that it is fresh. (http://www. wikihow.com/Get-the-Health-Benefitsof-Cinnamon) In conventional remedies, cinnamon has been used to cure digestive disorders such as indigestion, gas and bloating, stomach upset, and diarrhea. Latest medical research has indicated cinnamon has a mild anti-inflammatory effect. It also slows down the spoiling of food and has antifungal properties as well.

Cinnamon is known for its results on blood glucose and cholesterol. It has been known to improve Type 2 Diabetes and resistance to insulin. Findings have shown in individuals, better insulin sensitivity and blood glucose control by taking at minimum about ½ teaspoon of cinnamon daily. Improving insulin resistance can help in weight control as well as decreasing the risk for heart disease. Along with the improvement in blood sugar, studies have documented improvements in triglycerides, blood pressure, and LDL cholesterol.

Spice up your diet by sprinkling cinnamon on low-carb toast, put it in your coffee instead of sweetener, or top yogurt, cottage cheese, or ricotta with it. Add it to sweet potatoes when you bake, Almond milk and top your pies with it. Incorporate cinnamon into your life anyway and every day!

Cleansing the Body of Parasites The Human Body is host to over 130 different types of parasites. Infections can range from mild, hardly noticeable to serious.

You may ask, what really is a parasite?

It is a simple celled animal that lives on or in another organism or body of another species from which it gets sustenance and protection without benefiting the host and usually doing harm. Experts estimate about 50 million Americans, plus, are infected with worms and or protozoans; all are types of parasites. Up to 50% of the United States water supply is contaminated with a parasite called Giardia Lamblia, a protozoan. Giardia is not killed by chlorination and causes over 2 million cases of infection every year as reported by the CDC. You may say “Are you crazy; how can I have a parasite?, I keep clean, I am healthy”…but that would not stop the possibility of picking up a parasite. Where do parasites come from? Many people have pets, they love them, kiss them and sleep with them. Perhaps you eat raw or smoked fish, we do love our Sushi. Yes, you can get parasites from dogs, cats, horses, water, gardens, toilets, contaminated food handlers at restaurants or grocery stores, etc. In

many countries it’s a part of common daily life!

I am sure you take your dog or cat for its checkup and shots, cattleman, kennels and horse farms all have annual programs for deworming and parasite blood tests. In some countries children are checked yearly for infections. Here in the USA this threat of parasites is almost totally ignored. Our allopathic testing methods are antiquated and other problems generally are just treated by trying to resolve the symptoms, only! At one time, only very strong chemicals were able to kill parasites but it also poisoned you, even if you lived through it!

Now, natural medicine has solutions. We have herbs that parasites hate, but are safe for humans. Parasites are not designed to kill you, but they steal your nutrition and cause organ malfunction causing many symptoms of disease. Many everyday symptoms like chronic fatigue, headaches, constipation, gas, bloating, premature aging and anemia could mean a parasite infection. Nationwide research by the CDC reveals that over the last 25 years one in six people have had one or more parasites.

One recommendation to cure para-

sites is the Apple Diet. This is an easy one week plan that can help get you started and is also a way to detoxify your body.

Be prepared for a cleansing period during the first four days of the week. Here are some tips to start. Eat as many organic apples and apple juice as you want to fill you up and drink plenty of water to help your body wash away toxins and parasites.

On the third and fourth day, start taking garlic capsules (since parasites hate them).

Then, drink some Papaya juice or eat the fruit. Also, drink several cups of Senna herbal tea and/or peppermint herbal tea.

To keep moving the parasites out of the system, eat Pumpkin seeds with one tablespoon of olive oil or castor oil.

Follow through to finish the last 3 days of that week by eating a lot of garlic and onions with a whole grain like rice, quinoa and a daily green salad. Remember to drink a lot of water! It is important to your organs to flush out all the parasites and their toxins, if not expelled you will feel sick, achy and feverish! Remember to avoid all dairy, junk foods and especially sweets which feed those parasites.

A few other herbs or teas that are optional are cayenne in capsules, fennel

or basil tea, oregano oil extract or capsules, olive leaf or milk thistle extract can also help to detoxify the liver. Other more popular remedies for parasite cleansing are black walnut hulls, wormwood and cloves.

This helps the liver to release the buildup of toxins from parasites and other chemicals.

All of the toxins come from all your other organs have to go through your liver first before being evacuated from the intestines.

If you feel you still have not released all toxins or are feeling bloated, I recommend aloe leaf or a Homeopathic Ipecac. To relax bowels, drink slippery elm tea and take magnesium to flush it out!

Grapefruit Seed is also good but it is very strong, you only need a little!

After you get rid of all these toxins I recommend you boost your immune system with vitamin B complex, Echinacea extract, a good probiotic and a Mushroom Immune complex to re-establish your intestinal health. Add foods back to your diet slowly and keep a healthy eating plan.

You won’t believe how good you will feel when all these infections are out of your system, like a new person! (NaturalNews)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Post holiday exercise goal.

Monique Bartlett Fitness The holidays are almost over and you are now starting to think about losing those extra pounds that crept up on you during the holiday season. The problem is you’re not quite sure where to start. An exercise program which will help you build your lean muscle mass so you can burn extra calories at rest should be your

It is recommended that you exercise at least thirty to sixty minutes three to five days a week. If you’re just starting out you should begin with low to moderate intensity exercise.

Cardio seems to get all the attention, but resistance training and body weight exercises are key for weight loss.

Circuit training, CrossFit, Zumba, Yoga, Pilates and other types of exercise such as these can help you get the best of both worlds. These types of exercise programs improve cardio fitness and increase your calorie burn to burn off fat more efficiently. If you decide to lift weights, you can perform more repetitions using lighter weights if you would like to work on muscular endurance, or you can do a moderate number of repetitions with medium weights which will focus more on muscle strength. Be sure to allow at twenty four hours

of rest between each of your full-body workouts.

Focus on form when lifting weights.

Keep your head in a neutral position, a slight bend in the knees when doing standing exercises. This will help to take some pressure off your back. Remembering to breathe is also vital. Breathe in on the easy part of the exercise and breathe out on the exertion of the exercise.

If you’re unsure of proper form it is best to consult a personal trainer who can guide you so you will lessen the chance of injury.

Remember to inform your physician if you are beginning an exercise program for the first time. Always listen to your body. If you are feeling pain stop. Feeling uncomfortable is normal but do not over train because you will pay for it for a long time down the road. Now you know where to begin so get started today!

Get your digestion on track for the holidays - Part 2 Dr. Lydia Thurton ND BASc

Health Tips What is something that we all do, but we are all shy to talk about? Bowel movements. As a naturopathic doctor, I discuss poop habits with my patients frequently. Why? It is an important indicator of overall health. Furthermore, people afflicted with either constipation or diarrhea are not happy campers and when their bowel movements are corrected back into a healthy state they experience a tremendous amount of relief.

There is a lot of controversy over what constitutes a normal stool and the frequency we should be using the washroom.

Generally, I ask my patients if the stool is easy to pass and if they feel like their bowel movements are complete. Not everyone has to defecate multiple times per day, some only go three times per week and this can be normal for them. As with many factors of your health, it is important to know what is normal for you. When unexplained changes

occur and persist then that warrants a trip to your health care provider to undergo further examination.

The quality of stool should be formed and pliable. Hard stool that is pebbly and fractured into many pieces is too dry and indicates that your stool is lingering around too long in your large intestine. Either more fiber or more water can usually remedy that situation. Watery or mushy stool that is difficult to clean off your bottom is also an indicator that your stool quality could use improvement. Loose stool can also be a sign of difficulty digesting lactose, gluten or artificial sweeteners.

As mentioned, your feces can be an important indicator of potentially serious health issues. Let’s discuss some things to look for. For starters, black stool that looks like coffee grounds can indicate that there is bleeding higher up in your digestive tract.

This should always be followed up on with your doctor. Certain medications, like iron supplements and aspirin can cause black stool as well. Brighter blood can be a sign of a bleeding hemorrhoid or a small tear closer to the anus, usually a result of having to strain or having to pass larger, painful movements. If the bright blood persists this also warrants a check up. And lastly, narrow stool that is long and skinny can be normal, but also can be a sign of a bowel obstruction,

and even colon cancer if this shape persists over the long term. Again, get checked.

Seeds and corn can be difficult to digest and can appear, in their original form, in your stool. This is normal. However, larger pieces of undigested food indicates that your body is not properly breaking down food, making it impossible to absorb nutrients from what you are consuming. This can lead to malnutrition over the long term and should be corrected. Another red flag is visible mucous in the stool. This can be an indicator of inflammation and bowel diseases.

Also worth a check up with your health care provider.

While you poop will never smell like roses, very foul odorous stools can also be an indicator of bacterial infections and malabsorption diseases. If your stool has a drastically different smell than you’re used to, it is more than likely related to a food product recently eaten, however, if the odor persists, again, get a check up.

Now that you know what to look for, next week we will discuss supplements and herbs that can better your bowel movements. There is also an interesting visual, called the Bristol stool chart that can help you analyze the health of your poop. This chart is easily found on the internet. Until next week!

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Multiple representation, identity theft and RESP fraud.

Stephen Mohammed Finance Real Estate: When selling your home, it is uncommon for a sales representative to represent both seller and buyer clients in a transaction. However, it does occur and the salesperson or brokerage must disclose and obtain written consent from both parties. The disclosure must be made before any offer is presented. Before obtaining consent, the salesperson should ensure that both parties are fully informed and understand the purpose of the disclosure and the duties of the salesperson or brokerage to both clients.

A salesperson must remain impartial, maintain confidentiality and be aware of the potential for conflict of interest. As a client you are not obligated to consent to the multiple representation. If you are uncomfortable with proceeding, speak to your salesperson and inform them. The salesperson may either refer another salesperson to represent either the buyer or the seller or find another buyer with their own representation.

Mortgage: Knowing your credit score and understanding your credit report is very important. Identity theft and credit reporting errors can delay your ability to purchase or refinance your home. You can access your credit score and history and monitor your credit at www.equifax.ca without impacting your credit score. There are various products to assist you in identifying discrepancies and

You can protect yourself from unknowingly participating in mortgage fraud by identifying suspicious behavior or situations. You should be suspicious if you are asked to make false statements on a mortgage application and sign blank forms or documents. Complete the mortgage application thoroughly and truthfully. Always have the property that your purchasing appraised and a home inspection is recommended.

Finance: A Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) is a great product for saving for a child’s education. Benefits to contributing to an RESP are the Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG) and the Canada Learning Bond (CLB) in addition to interest earned on contributions. Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) contributes a Canada Education Savings Grant of 20% of the annual contributions made to a maximum of $500.0o into the RESP for each beneficiary and $1,000.00 if there is unused grant room from the previous year up to a lifetime limit of $7,200. The Canada Learning Bond (CLB) will contribute an initial $500.00 to children born on or after January 1st, 2004 for families entitled to receive the National Child Benefit (NCB). HRSDC will also contribute an additional $25.00 with the first $500.00 bond. The Canada Learning Bond will contribute an additional $100.00 annually up to 15 years for each year the family is entitled to receive the National Child Benefit for the child. You can contribute to family plans for beneficiaries who are under the age of 31 years of age at the time of contribution to a lifetime limit of $50,000.00. There is no limit for annual contributions. A Financial Advisor can assist you in setting up a RESP and help you to understand the process.

Minister Alexander Announces Citizenship Judge Re-Appointment OTTAWA -- Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander today announced that A. Dane Minor has been reappointed for a three-year part-time term as a Citizenship Judge for Surrey, British Columbia.

Dane Minor is a strong community advocate for victims of crime and on issues such as youth crime and gang violence. Prior to his initial appointment as a citizenship judge in 2011, he served as Vice Chair of the Victims Advisory Council to the Parole Board of Canada and the Correctional Service of Canada. He is a co-founder of Crime, Responsibility and Youth, a community organization aimed at preventing youth crime and provide counseling and support to victims of crime.

Citizenship judges are responsible

for making decisions on citizenship applications, presiding over citizenship ceremonies and administering the oath of citizenship to new citizens.

Citizenship judges are appointed by the Governor in Council on the recommendation of the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration. New appointees are chosen from a list of qualified candidates who have gone through rigorous screening, including a written exam, reference check and oral interview. Candidates for citizenship judge appointments are evaluated against the skills required by the position: information-seeking, judgment/analytical thinking, decision making, effective communication, cross-cultural sensitivity, leadership, self-confidence, self-control and writing ability. (CIC)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Appeal Court Rules 407 ETR Debts are Discharged & MTO is to Reinstate Plate Tammy Flores 407ETR Matters There has been some exciting developments for those that support reining in 407ETR’s abuse of power. For about 3 years now, the group, Stop the 407ETR’s Abuse of Power, has highlighted the need to regulate how 407ETR uses the provision of the Plate Denial process. It seems the group may be gaining momentum.

The Appeal Court of Ontario has ruled in the case between the Superintendent of Bankruptcy & 407ETR that the discharge of Moore dated June 21, 2011 released him from all claims provable in bankruptcy, including the debt of the 407 ETR and that the Ministry of Transportation is hereby directed to issue license plates to Moore upon payment of the usual licensing fees.

In the 45 page ruling by Justices Doherty, Simmons and Pepall, they declared that s. 22(4) of the 407 Act is inoperative to the extent that it thwarts the purpose of providing a discharged bankrupt with a fresh start.

We are still waiting on the lawyers comments on what this means for the Class Action lawsuit that was launched, April 27th, 2012, against 407ETR on behalf of

people that claimed bankruptcy and 407ETR did not acknowledge their discharge. In the meantime, people everywhere can take this ruling as a sign of change for how this company has been conducting itself since securing a 99 year lease, on this highway, in 1999.

I have been critical regarding the lack of will from our political leaders to regulate how this company uses Plate Denial, however, I want to take the opportunity to thank the Province for not advancing the notion that collection of 407 ETR debts from a bankrupt person, is in the public interest.

407ETR made the claim that the collection of debts arising from the use of Highway 407 is in the public interest, as well as in ETR’s interest, so as to ensure that the public private partnership flourishes. I can agree that this is true for toll collection, however, 407ETR is not just collecting on legitimate tolls.

I think there is a glimmer of hope that the Province is not pleased with the business practices of 407ETR, using Plate Denial as a means of collecting against bankrupt persons in our society.

One can only hope that the Province is also not pleased with how 407ETR uses Plate Denial to collect unproven, questionable debts. Thousands of people in the Province of Ontario have experienced this company’s lack of respect for established laws. For example, not only have they been ignoring our Federal Bankruptcy laws, but also, the Statute of Limitations.

This company claims that, they don’t have to send you a bill in a timely manner and that it doesn’t matter when you

receive a bill from them or what details are on the bill. If they say you owe, you owe and they don’t have to provide any proof whatsoever behind their claim. They use the Plate Denial process as their means to collect. Consumers are at their wits end with this company.

They claim that they can accumulate interest charges (in many cases on phantom toll charges) and collect for up to 15 years. So if you have never received a bill from this company, but out of the blue, you all of a sudden receive a bill for an outrageous amount of money… it doesn’t matter as long as they claim you received it within the 15 year window. We have yet to see this challenged in court. We are hopeful that the Province doesn’t need another court case before they act on what is obviously an abuse of process by 407ETR on how they are using the provision of Plate Denial. The Province can and should regulate the use of the Plate Denial process.

This company’s shady business practices include an invoice suppression scam, usury rates of interest charges, wonky fees, as well as circumvention of the legislative process re: independent arbitrators.

Is it wishful thinking on our part to expect the Province to regulate how this company uses Plate Denial? Perhaps. But it is our hope that the Province will start to listen to us regarding the need to regulate how this company uses the Plate Denial provision.

Please sign and share our petition and help make change happen http://tinyurl. com/change-the-407act

Reuniting families and reducing backlogs in Canadaʼs immigration system OTTAWA -- By cutting immigration backlogs and wait times, the Government is bringing families together more quickly, Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander announced today.

Over the first six months of 2013, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) admitted 45,000 permanent residents to Canada in the Family Class (FC). This represents an increase of 40 percent over the first six months of 2012. This increase can be attributed almost entirely to a doubling of admissions in the Parent and Grandparent (PGP) category over that time period.

Canada has one of the most generous family reunification programs in the world, but growing backlogs in the PGP program meant families could expect to wait eight years or more to bring their loved ones from overseas. A pause on new applications,

combined with high admission levels, has helped reduce the backlog. The PGP program re-opens to new applications on January 2, 2014. It will re-open with tighter admission criteria and a cap on applications, which will continue to reduce the backlog and improve wait times for families.

Application forms, guides and information on how to apply to the new PGP program will be made available online on December 31, 2013, just ahead of the PGP program re-opening.

Quick facts • In 2011, under Phase I of the Action Plan for Faster Family Reunification, the Government cut backlogs and wait times for sponsored parents and grandparents. Had no action been taken, it was predicted that the backlog could increase to 250,000 persons,

with wait times of 15 years by 2015.

• Of the 45,000 FC permanent residents admitted to Canada in the first six months of 2013, approximately 22,530 spouses and partners were admitted as permanent residents under the FC as well as 1,410 children, 20,700 parents, grandparents and their dependants as well as 360 other relatives and adopted children.

• The Parent and Grandparent Super Visa remains a fast and convenient option for parents and grandparents who want to spend longer periods of time with their families in Canada. To date, approximately 28,000 Super Visas have been issued with an approval rate of almost 85 percent. With more than 1,000 Super Visas being issued monthly, this has become one of CIC’s most popular initiatives. (CIC)

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Trinidad and Tobago Musical All Rounder Makes Major Resolution Ahead of The New Year Annually, New Year resolutions are made by people from all walks of life. Entertainers in Trinidad and Tobago, an island known for the free spirited nature of its people is no different. In fact, one local entertainer, who goes by the sobriquet, Vetta- real name Kevin Allan, has promised himself that 2014 will see him become involved in Trinidad and Tobago’s anti bullying campaign. For the Enterprise, Chaguanas native, it’s a first step into something he truly believes deserves greater focus and greater public support.

With Christmas looming, Vettaknown for his strong rap verses, has taken the time to conjure thoughts of hope and happiness for the people of his homeland, T&T. “This year has seen a lot of negativity across the country and my hope for the New Year is that we as a people, are able to reflect on what the land has faced and strive to be better, individually and collectively,” he said.

Vetta has been involved in music since the year 2000. He says his inspiration came from the Hip Hop group, The Fugees, however today, he looks to artistes like Kanye West and even Trinidad and Tobago’s Bunji Garlin for musical inspiration.

Untraditional choruses and melodies fuel his passion and even after taking some time off, having become a bit disenchanted by the local entertainment industry, his natural

love for music proved undeniable. “I took a couple years off from the music, but I started back recording this year. The first single I put out was a track called, ‘Represent’- a hip hop track that used a sample from Biggie Smalls and it was produced by DLL and recorded at Highway Records,” he said, adding that in the weeks ahead, he’ll be unleashing a new Soca music track for the Carnival season in T&T. Vetta isn’t about any one particular genre of music. In fact, he believes he can be great at any genre he chooses to become involved in and for that reason he’s dabbling in Soca especially with the seasonal focus locally. “The music will speak for itself. I just plan on putting out as much music as I can,” he said, noting that he’s been working with young local producers, Star Blu Entertainment and Millbeatz Entertainment.

Separately, the New Year looks to be one filled with great opportunities for the ambitious musician as plans are already in place for him to travel to North America and Europe where foreign producers have indicated their strong desire to meet with him to discuss partnerships. Vetta is ready to rumble and with a light spirit leading him, the Trinidad born artiste looks to 2014 with a strong sense of self and a desire to make great things happen. (EtceteraBuzz.com)

FOR SALE FOR SALE

DVDs: Assorted DVDs for sale or swap.

Contact Jim for more information. 416-8947859

METAL SHELVES: 3 metal shelve cases for cargo van. 1 in excellent condition, 2 in good condition. $500 for all 3. 647-3094606 COMFORTER SET: King size comforter set (Brown, Gold & Green). Includes pillow shams and bolster pillows. Asking $50.00.

New, never used. 905-281-0735 DRESSER: Full sized 6 drawer dresser/ mirror. Excellent condition. Asking $50.00 obo Call 905-281-0735 WINDOW SECURITY CAGE SET: Security window cage set for Chev Express or GMC Savana. Back 2 and 60/40 split windows. Selling as a set only - $100. 647309-4606 2001 FORD WINDSTAR SPORT: So many new parts to list, new paint job in Feb. 2013. Excellent for work vehicle, winter beater or for parts. $1000 as is. 647309-4606

FOR SALE SERVICES

FORWANTED SALE JOBS

FOR SALE OPPORTUNITIES

APPRENTERSHIP: Student looking for apprentership position within the Electrical industry. Punctual and professional. Please call Neal 647-869-7073

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

FORWANTED SALE HELP EXPERIENCED TINTERS: Experienced tinters needed for busy Brampton tint shop.

905-450-8484 WEST INDIAN COOK WANTED: Start immediately. MUST be experienced. 905564-7800 BUSY BRAMPTON ROTI SHOP: Immediate help wanted. Please call 905-497-6800 SALES REPS NEEDED: Seeking sales reps to increase new business. Confident and self-motivated, highly skilled at aquiring new business. 647-722-6298

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

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

FOR RENT SALE FOR 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

Businessman looking for a Guyanese Indian woman married or unmarried for companionship.

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

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Your Horoscope - January 1st 2014 ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

Once Christmas speeds by, other priorities clamour for your attention. Even if you’ve managed to squeeze in a break from the work, it seems you are still in labour over something. Allow a little more time to plan it out and/or build up to it. Use Wednesday’s new moon to put it in writing (metaphorically speaking).

The stars are on a move-ahead. One way or another, so are you. Watch for a number of good flashes or “aha” breakthrough moments over the next few days. Sunday through Tuesday gives a better sense of direction. New Year’s Eve delivers a late perkme-up. Make a productive start to the New Year: set your intention and go.

Christmas will soon be a thing of the past.

You can be busier than you want or intend to be over the following few days, but once in action, it’s all good. Mercury and Wednesday’s cementing new moon suggests the time is ripe to take an official step forward regarding your finances, career, or relationship status.

It’s over one hump and on to the next. The stars aren’t wasting any time, and neither should you. In fact, Sunday’s stars could strike you with restless-leg syndrome. Observe New Year’s Eve in your usual way, downplay it, or ignore it altogether. Wednesday’s new moon underscores the fact that a new reality is setting in and there’s no time to waste.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

Once the big day is over, you can still be in the thick of family or obligations through Saturday. Sunday and Monday are good play, travel, or move-it-along days. On Tuesday, you could feel obligated to force what doesn’t come naturally. Wednesday’s auspicious new moon will reward your due diligence. Stay real about your goals, put in the up-front time or effort, and be patient.

A show of strength, head and heart in the right place, a more determined, confident, and wise you—the new year gets off to a great start. Wednesday’s new moon in Capricorn gains extra ground from Mercury, your ruler. Use this day to have the talk, with another or yourself. Your words, actions, and presentation will carry greater impact now.

Monday/Tuesday keeps you on the go. You could feel impatient, challenged, or provoked, but as best you can, keep your feelings and opinions under wraps. Entertain at home or chill on your own for New Year’s Eve. Wednesday’s new moon prompts you to get yourself or your family better organized. Launch a renovation project or an attitude shift.

Saturday brings you to a finish line or saturation point. By Sunday, you’ll start to pick up speed again. Ring in the New Year with a good friend or a few. Start the conversation or project, make a plan or commitment, get to the gym, or polish up your résumé, and aim to get the year off to a solid launch.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

The weekend’s wind-down fits the bill just fine. Sunday/Monday revs it up for you again, perhaps unexpectedly so. No matter what you get up to, you seem to have a knack for good timing. Low-key plays it best for your New Year’s Eve celebration.

Wednesday’s straightforward and down-tobusiness new moon refuels you with added can-do/ must do.

Freshly in Capricorn, sharpshooter Mercury keeps you especially quick on the uptake, and with the comebacks too. Even though playing it smart is the aim, Sunday through Tuesday, the moment can get the better of you. Late-night action makes your New Year’s Eve worthwhile. Wednesday’s freshpage new moon renews your resolve.

Whether you catch a plane or not, Sunday/ Monday sets you onto something fresh.

New Year’s Eve is best spent at the movies, wrapped around the one you love, or away from it all on your own. New year’s resolutions can have better sticking power thanks to Mercury aligned with Wednesday’s new moon. Take your goals seriously.

The holidays can tucker you out, but the stars continue on the push and shove for another week. Even so, Friday/Saturday runs smoothly; Sunday/Monday requires more effort. Observe New Year’s Eve with friends or family, make it a special date night, or spend it quietly—the calendar switch will prove more momentous than you realize.

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) Fronts the band [SINGER] 4) Crash or high-hat [CYMBAL] 6) Voice amplifier [MICROPHONE] 7) Six-string [GUITAR] 8) Plays the low notes [BASS] 9) Big brass instrument [TUBA] 11) Horn’s nationality [FRENCH] 14) Scottish mainstay [BAGPIPES] 15) Yo Yo Ma’s instrument [CELLO]

Down 1) Electric piano [KEYBOARD] 2) Keep the beat [DRUMS] 3) Lisa Simpson plays one [SAXOPHONE] 4) Baton waver [CONDUCTOR] 5) Tickles the ivories [PIANIST] 10) Twangy Southern instrument [BANJO] 11) Small wind instrument [FLUTE] 12) Also a corn snack [BUGLE] 13) Stradivarius [VIOLIN]

(June 21 - July 20)

(October 23 - November 21)

(February 18 - March 20)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Content is Everywhere!

Jim Pagiamtzis Business Development The ability to share content on different topics has been done on various platforms from Facebook to Twitter and many more. You have the opportunity to do the same, from sharing your business expertise to insights regarding a specific topic.

“Content is king” attributed to many In the current social media landscape the ability to share great content has been a daily and weekly practice for many bloggers and news media outlets.

Having the opportunity to share content in your newsletter or website is a great tool allowing you to share your expertise to a wide audience.

Interview Interview entrepreneurs or professionals in your network. This is a strategic way to

share topics of interest and give a different perspective to your audience. This can educate and inspire your audience to take action.

The ability to teach and share is a great way to share powerful information to your network and share your resources and experience on future topics Repurpose The ability to share information that you have previously presented or shared is a great way to be the resource to your network. Perhaps you have done a podcast or YouTube video that you want to share regarding an important issue from blogging to a picture from a previous event.

Create Your Own Original Content Creating your own original content is great way to provide fresh new ideas that you can share with your audience and potential clients.

These can be topics from marketing and sales to specific strategies that you can share. This can give you the ability to share your expertise and insights on topics and illustrate your ability to solve an issue or pain point.

There are various ways to use and share content, that will give you the ability to be the resource for your network

Creating a free personal assistant for your business - Part 2 data entry, and networking followup?

Tina Dietz Business Development Now that you have your “assistant” set up to take dictation for you and handle writing emails, texts, articles, etc…what else can we have your phone do?

Let’s have your phone clean up your desk and follow up with contacts after networking events. Yep, we can do that!

Data entry and email are two BIG “time vampires” in business development.

While necessary, the more time we spend on administration the less time we’re spending connecting with potential or current clients, building our platforms, getting out into the media, spending time with our families, taking a much needed nap, or any other things that WE’D RATHER BEING DOING THAN DATA ENTRY! Whew. Clearly, I’m not a fan of data entry. It doesn’t exist in my Perfect Day. So how to minimize contact management,

I love Card Munch.

LinkedIn has a free app (iPhone or Android) called Card Munch that allowed me to get rid of a pile of business cards more than 150 cards high and expand my network by 300 people in less than 30 minutes.

Now assuming that you have a LinkedIn account (and if you don’t, go get one!), go ahead and get the free LinkedIn app for your phone and log into it. Then get the Card Munch app.

How does it work? Open Card Munch and take a photo of each business card. LinkedIn transcribes each card and when it’s ready you can…

1) Send a LinkedIn invitation to that contact (with one tap) 2) Save the contact to your phone (with one tap) Suddenly, you’re a networking maven!

Part III of this series shows you how to take your phone personal assistant even further and create a customer referral and appreciation system right on your phone!

Give it a try, and let’s talk streamlining, automation, and time freedom on the Blog. What’s shakin’?

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Powerfully keeping your dreams alive & profitable Tina Dietz Business Development Ideas die in a moment. Possibility has a short shelf life. Dreams are fleeting. In our language of entrepreneurial longing, the language of “maybe, someday…” is pretty firmly established that we as human beings have some difficulty going from something being a good idea to being reality. And, in an unfortunate paradox, the more something becomes “work” that once started out as a dream the less it seems like a good idea.

Suddenly, time and expense and effort are too big a cost to continue bringing that once cherished dream into reality and our current comfort is more important. If this were NOT the case, consider how many more successful ventures we would have in the world today.

So how DO you keep a dream alive? How do you slog through the day to day breakdowns and make it happen?

It’s all a matter of building your capacity. I remember when I was in college about (ahem) years ago, and I felt so BUSY. I had my classes and all this homework and a boyfriend and laundry and dishes and…. …now, it’s laughable. I accomplish more in a day, most days, than I did in a week when I was in college. Did I suddenly become a different person? No. Over time, experience, and NECESSITY, I expanded my capacity for getting things done and for what I can manage in a day. However, if I hadn’t needed to expand that capacity, I would likely have stayed at the same “level” of functioning. We all know people like this, people who always seem frantic but never really seem like they have anything going on in their lives. It’s like the old saying goes, “necessity is the mother of invention.”

Coming back around to our dreams, the disconnect between dreaming and reality most of the time is that we don’t view our dreams becoming reality as NECESSARY. They’re simply a good idea, a nice option.

And, this is why when you meet or read about someone who is pursuing full throttle their dreams it almost seems like they’re a little nuts-it is simply not an option for them to not fulfill that dream they have, and that drive, that need aligns every action that they take with bringing that dream into reality.

So what if you’re not one of “those people” who live on the edge and have that drive? Can you still keep a dream alive? Yes. Now I’ll give you 2 “rubber hits the road” ways to build your capacity to keep your dreams alive.

Develop a Mob Mentality Let’s consider mobs. Flash mobs, riots, gangs, marches, movements, protests, etc.

What do all these things have in common?

They have a shared agreement that everyone in that group is either “for” or “against” the same thing. Agreement is an incredibly powerful tool, and when you’re starting something new…you don’t have it. If you’re a day laborer, there’s no agreement that you’re a millionaire. If you’re 3 person web design company, there’s no agreement that fortune 500 companies want you to build their websites. So what do you do to build agreement for a new dream? You share it. You share it with everyone. Not everyone will agree with you, but it’s simply a numbers game—a volume of sharing—before agreement starts to take hold. And along the way, you’ll find resources, you’ll find people who want to work with you, you’ll find out things you needed to know that you didn’t even know that you needed to know, and you’ll find Devil’s Advocates. The latter is the best part.

Why? Because those devil’s advocates give you two CRUCIAL things: 1. they’ll give you practice in dealing with objections and naysayers. Building your capacity to stand fast in the face of adversity is necessary to allow you to get through the inevitable breakdowns that happen in life. 2. Through these DA’s, you’ll often become aware of gaps or “what’s missing” in your dreams and plans—and finding out “what’s missing” is often (ok, pretty much always) the difference between success and failure.

Build Billboards If you were to have an advertising agency create a campaign for your dream (not the business, but the whole dream you have for your life), what would it be like? What images would they use? What kinds of words?

YOU are the number one customer of your own dream, and it’s time to start advertising to yourself. Now you can call this “keeping something in existence,” or “displays” or “structures” or whatever you like, but the processes are the same. You need to make your dreams part of your everyday life and part of the fabric of your home, your family, who you are. Your dream needs to be a brand you can’t escape. Surround yourself with what inspires you, create daily practices for taking actions in line with your dreams, reach out to people who inspire you, write notes, display pictures, listen to music, join groups, put post it notes on your fridge-but keep advertising to yourself and it will spill over into the world too.

So, do your Facebook “friends” and Twitter “followers” and LinkedIn “contacts” know what you’re up to? How about your family, the people you go to the gym with, your kids’ teachers?

Yep, it’s vulnerable. It might be uncomfortable. So what? Are you more interested in having a life you love, or will you let a worry over looking “bad” keep you from fulfilling your vision?