Caribbean Airlines Ordered to Remove Air Jamaica Brand From Planes 071812

Caribbean Airlines ordered to

remove Air Jamaica brand from planes TRINIDAD (CCN) -- Trinidad and Tobago’s Civil Aviation Authority (TTCAA) has instructed its national carrier, Caribbean Airlines (CAL), to drop its Air Jamaica (AJ) brand from its aircraft.

According to a story in the Sunday Express, its understood that use of the Air Jamaica brand does not comply with CAL’s airline operator certificate. According to the Express, despite the acquisition of Air Jamaica’s routes, CAL is not licensed to operate two brands in the United States but has been doing so for over a year.

The Express story alleges that for CAL to use the AJ brand, it will have to register a new airline in the name of Air Jamaica.

However Trinidad and Tobago may have some difficulty in doing as Air Jamaica is already registered as the official airline of Jamaica which still has a number of US routes on paper, under the Open Skies agreement with the United States of America.

Under the sale agreement with the Government of Jamaica, Caribbean Airlines pays the Government of Jamaica a fee of one dollar annually for the right to use the Air Jamaica brand.

CAL, the Sunday Express understands, was alerted about this disparity by CAA a few months ago as it sought to improve its systems ahead of a planned audit by the US Federal Aviation Authority (FAA).

Its understood that Caribbean Airlines will

Caribbean Airlines ordered by Trinidad and Tobago’s Civil Aviation Authoroity to drop its Air Jamaica brand from its aircraft. now have to repaint AJ’s six planes at a cost of US$60,000 each.

CAL acquired Air Jamaica’s fleet and route rights on May 1, 2010, after the Jamaica government took a decision to divest the national carrier. CAL had a 12-month transition period to obtain the necessary licences and integrate Air Jamaica into its operations.

The subsequebt signing of the shareholders agreement on May 26, 2011, gave CAL legal access to all routes operated by Air Jamaica, and the Government of Jamaica a 16 percent shareholding in Caribbean Airlines. It also resulted in CAL becoming the national carrier of Jamaica.

Continued On Page 3

PAGE 2 - WEDNESDAY, JULY 18, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Arima farmer: HDC chased me off my land TRINIDAD (TG) -- For the last two years Michael Norea has been roaming the streets and begging for lodging by friends, since, he claims, he was displaced by the Housing Development Company (HDC). Norea, who visited the T&T Guardian in an attempt to get some assistance, said he was once a successful farmer when he cultivated land at Leroy Calliste Avenue, Phase Seven, La Horquetta.

“I had corn, ochro, sorrel, cassava, coconuts and oranges. All these things I used to plant on the land with other farmers,” he said. Norea said he lived by himself and he planted crops on the land for more than 30 years before his whole world changed in 2009. That’s when he said the HDC sent surveyors on the land to begin construction of houses. But he believes he has a strong claim to the land.

“I rejected them. I don’t know how they wanted to build on flooded land. The land is right by a river. The next thing I see they grade down most of the land and destroy my crops and leave me with one acre of land,” he said. Since that time Norea claims he has been scared to return to the land, which has been taken over by the HDC.

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Norea said he was forced to abandon the land when he was chased by HDC security officials. “Those guys run me from my land and while I running I end up face-to-face with the police. The HDC workers have guns and the police have guns. I can’t fight with them,” he said.

The 53-year-old farmer said he believed he was suffering because he stood for what is right. Norea produced correspondence that he received in 2010 from the office of the Ombudsman which states: “Investigations into this complaint have revealed that on June 26th, 2009 the Town and Country

Planning Division refused planning permission for the Housing Development Corporation’s Greenvale Development, La Horquetta, Arima.”

In spite of this, Norea said, the construction has continued on the land he once farmed to make a living. He said the HDC has offered him compensation but to date he has not received anything. He said he has sent letters to the office of the Police Commissioner and maintains he was right to refuse the HDC entry to his land in the first place.

Norea says he is paying a heavy price for his sense of justice as the only other skill he has is furniture building. But because he does not have a place of his own land, he can’t pursue this profession.

Continued On Page 5

Media asked to leave Pan Trinbago meeting Members of the media were ordered out of a meeting of Pan Trinbago yesterday at the Scherzando panyard in Curepe. The meeting was called following allegations levelled against Pan Trinbago president Keith Diaz, alleging lack of transparency and integrity, by two former members of the central executive who resigned abruptly.

At yesterday’s meeting, scheduled to start at 10 am, Diaz promised to reveal all.

However,an hour later, Diaz spoke close to 30 minutes and was into discussions on the resignation letters filed by former assistant secretary Beverley Ramsey-Moore and trustee Keith Simpson. He then asked the media present to leave after a member questioned why the media were present in a “private” meeting called for the general membership.

The member said serious matters were being discussed and needed to be ironed out before they were presented to the public.

Members of the media present complied with Diaz’s request to leave. Diaz came un-

der fire last week when the resignation letters, made public, cited the executive was operating with a general lack of trust.

In an earlier interview, Ramsey-Moore told the T&T Guardian she felt the need to resign after expressing on numerous occasions, her concerns about transparency and integrity in regard to business conducted under Pan Trinbago. She said the executive had been plunging into projects without the approval of the central executive. Among the projects cited was the Africa T&T Steelpan Development Company Ltd, a new subsidiary of the organisation which was launched last week.

She also expressed concern about funds spent for consultation on managing the “Greens” for Panorama 2012. Diaz has since dismissed the allegations, saying: “People must be careful about what they are saying because litigation can follow.” When contacted yesterday after the meeting, Diaz said a media release will be issued giving details of what transpired at the meeting.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN - PAGE 3

Comrades at war! Crawford, PNP councillors in bitter conflict - PNP councillors launch silent protest against new MP JAMAICA (JO) -- Battle lines have been drawn and war rhetoric — including the fixing of bayonets, the digging of trenches and the burning of white flags — is being used by members of the People’s National Party’s (PNP’s) organisation in East Rural St Andrew, despite desperate efforts to resolve a conflict that has left the governing party’s machinery in that constituency in shambles.

In one of the many caustic e-mails obtained by the Jamaica Observer, member of parliament Damion Crawford — who is at the centre of the feud — made it clear that he has no intention of retreating. “If the war has the outcome of replacing community leaders with community builders, then be it fortunately or unfortunately, I have already burned my white flag,”

“What you and the party may not know is that the community leaders, Dallas and Harbour View division, have already dug their trenches and fit bayonet, while we in the Kintyre division are now in the process of digging our trenches,” said McDonald.

Crawford wrote.

But in response, Councillor Artnell McDonald (PNP, Kintyre Division) utilised even heavier artillery as he fired back at Crawford, the first-time MP who had campaigned as the ‘People’s Gladiator’.

Crawford controversially took over the reigns of the party’s machinery in the lead-up to the 2011 General Election. His introduction as a possible candidate caught several party loyalists in the constituency by surprise, and some well-placed members expressed outrage at what appeared to be a move by the PNP to impose a candidate on the constituency.

Continued On Page 4

Ezjet aircraft damaged in ground accident; stranded passengers to leave midnight damaged the fuselage of an Ezjet aircraft.

The incident happened Saturday morning between 5:50 and 6:00 as the aircraft was being cleaned for its outbound journey. The extent of the damage is not immediately known.

GUYANA (DW) -- About 200 New Yorkbound passengers were Saturday suffering a nine-hour delay at Guyana’s Cheddi Jagan International Airport after a Rapid Loader

“It was a ground handling accident in which a loader, during the course of cleaning the plane, damaged the plane. It’s a minor damage but it prevented the plane from flying,” Ezjet’s spokesman, Kit Nascimento told Demerara Waves Online News.

DemWaves understands that the Rapid Loader is owned by New Timehri Handling Services.

Nascimento said Ezjet has arranged for another aircraft to arrive here to take the 201 stranded passengers to the John F. Kennedy International Airport. Departure time is expected to be around midnight.

The now damaged aircraft should have left Guyana at 3 PM Saturday.

An investigation has been launched into the incident.

Nascimento said the delay and backlog would not affect Monday’s launch of its inaugural flight to and from Canada.

Must drop Air Jamaica brand Continued From Page 1 -- CAL’s head, Corporate Communications Clint Williams confirmed that CAL had received recommendations from CAA which had been passed to its new line minister, Vasant Bharath.

Minister of Trade, Industry and Development, Bharath, as Minister in the Ministry of Finance, is in charge of all State enterprises. Williams said yesterday that Bharath is expected to meet with his counterpart in Jamaica to discuss the matter. Former transport minister Devant Maharaj, under whose purview both CAL and TTCAA had fallen, will also be part of the discussions.

The Express article noted that CAL’s investment in AJ has been a costly affair. Apart from an initial US$50 million for acquisition of routes, former finance minister Winston Dookeran had disclosed to Parliament that Air Jamaica recorded an unaudited loss of US$38.1 million ($245.2 million) for 2011.

CAL’s investments (US$149 million), the Sunday Express had reported, have had to be liquidated to address the costly operations of Air Jamaica.

The business plan for the Air Jamaica operations for the months of May to December 2010 forecast a profit of US$4.6 million and $16 million for 2011.

However, data obtained show the actual performance for the Air Jamaica operation from May to December 2010 was a loss of US$21 million “for various reasons” and US$38 million for 2011.

The 2011 figure has to be contextualised given there was an adjusted fuel subsidy from US$1.50 to US$2.34 a gallon.

In the meantime, CAL has put four of its nine ATR aircraft it ordered up for sale. The airline has only collected two of the aircraft it had ordered from the France’s Aviones de Transport Regional (ATR) .

When the proposal to acquire the ATR was made on September 9, 2010 from a note submitted by then line minister, Works and Transport Minister Jack Warner for CAL to enter into a purchase agreement with ATR for nine aircraft, no funding requirements were identified.

CAL paid the US$1.8 million commitment fee-—calculated to a $200,000 deposit on each aircraft—out of pocket on September 13.

By January 2011, CAL management had approached the Ministry of Finance for money for the ATR purchase but was told that no funding had been requested on the Cabinet note, and CAL was forced to utilise its own internal funding to pay fully for the first two aircraft.

The Sunday Express learned CAL is hoping to acquire three more of the aircraft to complete its propeller fleet.

As such, it intends to mortgage the first two ATRs and use those funds to finance the acquisition of the other three. Williams confirmed the four ATRs were up for sale as there were “changes in CAL’s business model moving forward”.

The four aircraft for sale remain at the manufacturer’s plant in France.

PAGE 4 - WEDNESDAY, JULY 18, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Comrades at war!

Continued From Page 3 -- At the time, the comrades in East Rural St Andrew were of the view that banker Leacroft Forden, a former member of the PNP’s young professional arm, the Patriots, who had been a member of the constituency’s executive for more than 20 years, should be given the nod.

But despite the opposition, the party pressed ahead and in November last year advised that Crawford was the best man to take on the Jamaica Labour Party’s Joan Gordon Webley.

That decision by the leadership of the PNP proved that Crawford was the ideal contender, as on general election night, he surprised many when poll results showed that he had defeated the JLP powerhouse in what was viewed as a safe JLP seat.

However, the joy of victory was not enough to defuse the simmering tensions between Crawford and several constituency officials who had concluded that the MP was distancing himself from the established constituency organisation.

Sunday Observer sources as well as copies of electronic communication between Crawford and his councillors and other prominent members of the party have confirmed that the dispute is far from over, and that at least one of the peeved PNP councillors is contemplating resignation.

Speaking with the Sunday Observer, Councillor Oliver Clue (PNP, Harbour

View Division) declared that he had been instrumental in getting the constituents to accept Crawford as the candidate, and disclosed that he had worked with Crawford throughout the election campaign.

But Clue, who was once the member of parliament for the constituency, is contending that Crawford — who is now state minister in the tourism ministry — is rude and does not know how to speak to people.

“Where I am hurt is to know that since the election and all the funding that the MP received, not even one cent has been spent in the Harbour View Division, which caused him to win the election,” said Clue.

“I am turned off and I am planning to tender my resignation as vice-chairman of the present steering committee, and I am asking the party to find someone else to serve as councillor, because I am not sure that I want to continue in East Rural St Andrew.”

He dismissed suggestions that the party workers are opposed to Crawford’s stance against partisan distribution of benefits from the political pork barrel.

“That is far from the truth, there is no one who worked closer with the JLP supporters than Oliver Clue in this constituency. I send their children to school, I help them, I work with the people because I am from the constituency,” Clue asserted.

Another member of the party’s machinery who spoke with the Sunday Observer last

week said “rude” was too nice a description of the MP. His failure to consult with them prior to infrastructural work being done in the constituency has decidedly put them off. One councillor complained that he just woke up one morning to find that a road had been repaired in his division without any advisories being sent to him, nor had be been consulted on it, as is the custom.

When the Sunday Observer sought responses from Councillor McDonald he indicated that he was on his way out of the country and would not be available for an interview. But based on the contents of emails between McDonald and Crawford it is clear that he, too, has an issue with the MP’s people skills.

“Mr Crawford, you came to this constituency with total contempt for the existing leadership. From day one you start to treat us with total disrespect. I thought that you would have changed, but this is not forthcoming,” said McDonald, in an e-mail sent two weeks ago.

In another correspondence, McDonald made it clear that he had withdrawn his support. “Your total lack of respect for the existing leadership should have been challenged, but in the interest of the party we held back. I am guilty of standing by and watch you destroy the leadership of this constituency. The time has come for us to stand up and fight you and your group of tourists. I have totally withdrawn my support from you and have joined the mass of beggars in East Rural who have launched a silent protest against you.”

Responding to that correspondence and to concerns over the distribution of cement to a school in the constituency, Crawford insisted that he was prepared to do battle. “I have never been a man to back down from any type of war, silent or otherwise, once I am desirous of the spoils of victory. If the war is for whether or not I remain the political leader of East Rural St Andrew, that’s an outcome I am unwilling to fight for, and will volunteer my retreat,” he wrote.

However, one prominent party member who was asked to intervene wrote and encouraged Crawford to engage the disgruntled members. “...there must be a vibrant organisation in place, where our members are informed, consulted and are part of the decisionmaking process. Obviously therefore, there must be a major communication issue, which of course is the collective responsibility of the entire leadership,” was the advice given by the prominent comrade.

When contacted by the Sunday Observer, Crawford dismissed claims of being rude and suggested that the problems stem from his decision to move away from the oldstyle politics.

“That I am unapproachable and rude, anybody who knows me would not say that.

The fact of the matter is, I am clear in my mind as to how Government’s resources

should be used and as to what I want to achieve, and I don’t think many of the persons understand the concept of opportunity cost, so I am not going around the corner,” he said.

“If a man calls me about a car I will tell him that that is not what the Government’s money is supposed to do. If they tell me they need $350,000 to work on a house I tell them to go to the National Housing Trust,” said Crawford as he emphasised that while on the campaign he had warned that he would not be giving “Guinness money” to constituents.

The MP insisted that his priority is education and stated that most of the near $15-million that he receives as constituency funding will be put into ventures aimed at improving the educational levels of his constituents.

“I am investing in educating the people.

Right now I have 412 kids at UWI being fed for 21 days. I have hired the best teachers in GSAT (Grade Six Achievement Test), the best teachers in CXC (Caribbean Examinations Council) as part of my thrust to ensure that in 20 years, each household in the constituency has someone with a degree,” he added.

Crawford, whose utterances have on many occasions caused him to be in conflict with well-placed members of his party, declared that he was willing to face the music, even if it means losing the next election.

“Politics has affected us in a particular way and the first person to try and run through that wall will be injured, then after that others will be able to go through the space made in the wall,” he said.

“If it is even one term I get, I want to make sure that I did my best for the people. I wouldn’t want 10 terms just to make sure that I win back each time. The biggest problem with politics in this country is the need to win back, because then you play to the loudest who are not necessarily the masses, and I am not going to do that,” he declared.

The parliamentarian acknowledged that senior party members led by Phillip Paulwell, the chairman of the PNP’s powerful Region Three, met with him and the disgruntled party workers last Thursday. According to him, the meeting was useful. He added that he is convinced that he has the support of the party. Crawford also suggested that over time, the aggrieved party members will begin to share his vision.

“When you remove a fruit, even if it is a sour fruit, until the new tree bears there will be a little annoyance, as people will be hungry for fruits. So having removed the existing fruit and until the plans that we have start bearing fruit, people are going to be a little upset,” he told the Sunday Observer.

However, a confident-sounding Crawford declared that many people are eager to support him if those now empowered to steer the party’s machinery decide to throw in their towels.

Senior Guyanese police officers busted in kickbacks from boat purchase- Home Ministry

GUYANA (DW) -- The Home Affairs Ministry on Thursday accused several unnamed senior police officers of getting kickbacks from the purchase of a GUY$16.9 million boat that has been malfunctioning since it was purchased three years ago.

The ministry said a probe has resulted in the small number of “high level” officers repaying the monies to the Guyana government that were paid to Cartronics-IV for the 30foot ocean going vessel.

“The Government demanded repayment of all the money from the local culprits who had collected kickbacks. Some paid while others paid for those who refused to return their share. The money recovered was paid into the Consolidated Fund.

The overseas based vendor was threatened with prosecution. He fixed the boat which sailed for a few weeks and then broke down never to sail again,” the Home Affairs Ministry said.

An official of the Home Affairs Ministry, who has been implicated in the racket, has been refused vacation leave because of an ongoing investigation, the ministry said in a statement.

The boat would soon be put on the auction block by the Guyana government.

The Home Affairs Ministry also regretted that from the day the boat arrived in Guyana

the problems with it were never ending and the continuous purchasing of spares and payments for maintenance was placing a heavy toll on the budget of the Guyana Police Force.

“The cost for maintenance and purchase of spare parts for the boat amounted to millions of dollars,” added the statement.

According the ministry, the identification and procurement of the boat was left to the Guyana Police Force since they insisted that they knew the type of boat they wanted. Quotations were obtained from Car Mart GUY$20,286,000 ; Rama D.B.K. Ltd -GUY$18,733,500 and Cartronics – IV 16,974,000 On the basis of a recommendation from the National Procurement and Tender Board, Cabinet issued its no objection for the purchase of the boat from Cartronics - IV. The Police was responsible for the processing of payment to the supplier which was done through Citizens Bank Guyana Inc. They were also responsible for the receipt, inspection and storage of the boat.

“What was intended to be a transparent normal purchase ended up as a scam involving a small group of high level members of the Guyana Police Force. The small group of high level Officers were in contact with the Head of Cartronics-IV and conducted the financial transaction,” according to the Home Ministry.

Chased off his own land Continued From Page 2 -- “I trying to develop my craft now. I trying to build recliners and other furniture but I have nowhere to store these things. Farming used to take care of me. When I was a farmer I could pay my light bill and all my other bills. Now I on the streets. I can’t even sell my plant baskets because I have nowhere to do stock-keeping,” a distressed Norea said.

He said he is pleading with the HDC to intervene so that he can return to what he loves doing. He said he has already lost about $40,000 in goods and tools and really needs help from anyone in authority for as-

sistance. Jearlean John, managing director of the HDC, said they were still in negotiations with Norea about the land he had formerly occupied. She said if the HDC process failed, an external party would step in to help with the issue of compensation, or relocation, if it was needed.

John added there was a process to be followed. “HDC has not put out anyone like that. There is a major housing development under construction, and we have tried to help out those people who were squatting. We have paid everyone properly,” she said.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN - PAGE 5

PAGE 6 - WEDNESDAY, JULY 18, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Improving focus and concentration Geeta Maraj Contributor How often have you found yourself entering a room for a specific reason only to forget what it was once you arrive there?

This phenomenon becomes more frequent with age it seems. However, if we are to consider the old adage that ‘practice makes perfect’ then we need to always be mentally vigilant so as to enhance sharpness of the mind. Feeding our brain and exercising our body serve the additional purpose of improving our focus and concentration.

Scientists have discovered that the human brain has an amazing ability to adapt and change at any age. This capability is termed neuroplasticity and refers to changes in neural pathways and synapses as a result of physical, emotional and mental stimulation.

From a physical perspective, when you exercise the body, you also exercise the brain. With physical exercise, there is an increase of oxygen to the brain, helping to improve memory while at the same time, reducing bone loss and preventing other

diseases of the body.

pumpkin seeds, and soybeans.

Our emotions are intricately connected to our sleeping habits. Likewise, our sleeping habits predict our ability to retain information. When one is sleep deprived, the brain cannot function smoothly and our critical thinking is compromised.

This is especially true when one is studying or working and is trying to juggle too many commitments at the same time. As a result, we become forgetful, frustrated and easily irritated.

Limiting saturated fat intake can also help improve brain health and focus. Research shows that diets high in saturated fat affect concentration and memory. The main sources of saturated fats are animal products such as red meat and dairy products. Many baked goods and fried foods also contain high levels of saturated fats.

Keeping these foods to a limit not only helps the brain to become healthier but also equally helps to prevent many harmful ailments, such as, cardiac and hypertensive problems.

It has been scientifically proven that meditation improves the brain’s ability to focus and concentrate. Studies show that during meditation there is greater activity in the left prefrontal cortex of the brain.

This area is associated with the feeling of peace and calmness. In yoga, the ability to concentrate is known as ‘dharana’.

This is the process of fixing the attention onto one object or spot. Meditation helps improve many different types of medical conditions, including depression, anxiety, and hypertension.

Feeding the brain is also beneficial in maintaining focus and concentration.

Foods rich in omega-3 are particularly beneficial to brain health. Fish is the best source of omega-3, especially salmon, tuna, mackerel, and sardines. If fish is not favored, then fish oil supplements can suffice. Other sources of omega-3 include walnuts, ground flaxseed, flaxseed oil,

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Fruits and vegetables are packed with antioxidants, which help to protect brain cells from damage. Vegetables that are brightly colored are especially high in antioxidants. Green tea is also beneficial as it contains polyphenol antioxidants that protect against free radicals that can damage brain cells. Regular consumption of green tea helps to enhance mental alertness and memory.

One other way of protecting the brain is by avoiding excessive alcohol intake. Al-

cohol abuse kills brain cells and can be detrimental to our health. However, when alcohol, in particular – red wine, is taken in moderation it can improve memory and cognition (1 glass a day for women and 2 glasses for men). Red wine is rich in resveratrol, a flavonoid that boosts blood flow in the brain. Additional resveratrolpacked options include grape juice, cranberry juice, fresh grapes, berries, and peanuts.

While we cannot change the natural aging process, we can however help to prevent premature aging of our body and brain by simply eating healthily and exercising regularly. When we intentionally concentrate so as to not lose our train of thought; eat with the aim of nourishing our brain cells and prevent ailments in the body; exercise in order to send additional oxygen to our brain; then we are ensuring perfection through practice. Only then can we be satisfied that we are in control of the physical, emotional and mental stimulation our brain requires in order to improve focus and concentration.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN - PAGE 7

Narine, Best say hard work paid off for WI West Indies not letting up says Sammy

TRINIDAD (TG) -- Sunil Narine yesterday said he had to dig deep to come up with his man-of-the-match performance against New Zealand on Saturday. Narine proved too much for New Zealand as he took two wickets for just 20 off his full quota of ten overs, as the Windies won by 24 runs. The home side took the series 3-1, with the last match carded for today. Narine combined with Tino Best (4-46) to bowl out the visitors for 240.

Together they topped a superb century by New Zealand skipper Ross Taylor, who made 110 on his return from injury. As fans and teammates celebrated, the softspoken Narine took the plaudits in stride and simply indicated: “I was doing it for the team.” “It was the big game of the series and I knew I just had to do the job for the team again. We wanted to win on Wednesday and seal the series, but we ended on the wrong end, so it was very important that we rebounded today and finish off the job,” Narine said.

“Normally, when I go onto the field I look at the scoreboard and see what is required of me. Sometimes it requires me to be attacking, other times I just have to keep the pressure on. Today I tried to keep my composure and build the pressure. We got wickets at key stages and the pressure mounted on them. “There was a great deal of effort today. We had to dig deep to come up with this win, and that made it feel that much better. To win a series at home is special. The batsmen played really well after we found ourselves in some trouble and that gave us something to bowl at. Tino kept running in and I knew my job was to remain accurate and build the pressure on the batsmen.” Narine came into the attack in the first PowerPlay and his first spell went for just seven runs as the West Indies took control. His first wicket was Kane

Williamson, who bowed to the mounting pressure and was leg-before swinging across the line. Late in the innings, Narine returned and forced Doug Bracewell into a desperate big hit which found the safe hands of Keiron Pollard at long off. “We beat them in the T20 matches in Florida and everyone in the dressing room is very happy that we beat them again in the OneDay Series. We don’t want to stop here.

We want to come back on Monday and look for another victory. Everyone knows that 4-1 would look a lot better than 3-2, so we will be going for that.”

So far in the Digicel ODI Series Narine has captured eight wickets in four matches at an average of 14.87 runs per wicket, and an economy rate of just 2.97 runs per over. Lion-hearted Best who took four for 46 and bowled at close to 150 kph on a flat pitch was ecstatic with his performance. “I love this feeling...winning feels good...really, really good! We worked hard and we have received our reward. We were made to work hard for this win and I’m happy I played a crucial role in bowling the team to victory. I bowled quick and I got wickets. That’s the job of a fast bowler,” Best said. Speaking about his game plan, Best said: “I went for a few (runs) in my opening spell and I knew I had to hit back the second time around.

I had a chat with captain Darren Sammy and he told me it’s better to bowl the ball ‘flat’ side rather than look to hit the seam.

I took his advice and it worked.

“I was up on pace and I knew once I got the ball in the right areas I could make it quite difficult for the batsmen. From last night (Friday night) when I found out I would be playing, I was mentally prepared for this match.” Best added: “It was a crucial match and the selectors put a lot of faith in me to deliver. I was happy to get that opportunity to perform for the people. Right now I feel great and I know the people across the West Indies feel great as well.”

Sammy dismissed any thoughts that the West Indies may be taking their feet of the gas. “There are several young players on this team who are looking to prove themselves. They will be under less pressure today to do so, and you can expect another good performance.”

TRINIDAD (TG) --West Indies captain Darren Sammy said yesterday his team will not be letting up in today’s final ODI against New Zealand at Warner Park, St Kitts. West Indies go into the final game with an unassailable 3-1 lead in the fivematch series, but Sammy said his players will be looking to continue the momentum with another good performance. “We have won the series but there is still the Test matches to come and we have to bear this in mind. We won’t want to go into that series with a loss and therefore we will be going all out to establish a psychological advantage.” The Caribbean team have come out on top in this series, a progression after drawing their previous ODI assignment at home, against Australia earlier this year.

An in-form Chris Gayle and Marlon Samuels, an impressive return for Tino Best and Sunil Narine’s continued success augur well for the upcoming Test series for the hosts. New Zealand will be seeing a lot of Narine in the Tests, and their repeated struggles to read him will remain a worry. He’s been economical and picked up wickets, and should he play today, it presents another opportunity for New Zealand’s batsmen to find some form against him. Overall, there has been significant improvement from New Zealand in the last two ODIs; they didn’t look like beating West Indies before then, and a consolation win ahead of the Tests will ensure that improvement continues. But

Opener Johnson Charles’ brief career so far has been marked with scores in the 20s and 30s but he is yet to get a half century to his name at the top of the order and he would be keen to correct that. He could finally come good with the pressure lifted from his shoulders. Best whose return was marked with a four-wicket haul, will also be looking to send a message to the selectors that he is ready to return to the test team while young wicket keeper Devon Thomas gets another chance in the absence of Denesh Ramdin. New Zealand would be happy with Ross Taylor’s brilliant 110 in the most recent game but would really need a few of their top order batsmen to come good. For someone who led the team before the arrival of Taylor, Kane Williamson has had a below-par series, with just one half-century and a run of poor scores. He will be relied upon heavily in the middle order in Tests and needs to hit form. Tim Southee lifted his performance in the previous ODI, and being among the quicker of New Zealand’s bowlers with the ability to move the ball around, he’ll be one of their bowling hopes for the Test series.

West Indies (possible): 1 Johnson Charles, 2 Chris Gayle/Lendl Simmons, 3 Dwayne Smith, 4 Marlon Samuels, 5 Dwayne Bravo, 6 Kieron Pollard, 7 Devon Thomas (wk), 8 Darren Sammy (capt), 9 Andre Russell, 10 Sunil Narine, 11 Tino Best.

New Zealand (possible): 1 Rob Nicol, 2 Martin Guptill, 3 Brendon McCullum, 4 Ross Taylor (capt), 5 Kane Williamson, 6 Tom Latham, 7 Nathan McCullum, 8 Jacob Oram, 9 Doug Bracewell, 10 Tim Southee, 11 Trent Boult.

PAGE 10 - WEDNESDAY, JULY 18, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Caribbean Pot: Orange Pineapple Pepper Sauce

canned pineapple chunks as I did).

Chris De La Rosa Contributor Ingredients 1 1/2 cup orange juice 3/4 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon brown sugar (golden) 1 cup pineapple chunks 1/4 teaspoon allspice 15 scotch bonnet peppers Notes: I used store bought orange juice (get the good stuff – no pulp, but nice and thick) and the pineapple came from a can. I got the chunks, with syrup (use the syrup as well).

Remember when handling scotch bonnet peppers to use caution as they are VERY hot. Use gloves and don’t include the seeds if you’re overly concerned about the extreme heat. Remember to wash your hands a couple times with soap when you’re done and don’t touch anyone or yourself before you to. If you can’t source scotch bonnet peppers use Habanero peppers.. they are just as deadly.

Wash and give the scotch bonnet peppers a rough chop to make it easier work for your blender or food processor.

Add all the ingredients into the food processor and give it a few pulses to start. Then work it until you have a smooth consistency. Do remember to add the juice/syrup the pineapple is packed in (if you’re using

Tip: remember to have your kitchen windows open as the peppers are very hot and with the blending, it may cause you to choke. (also, be careful when washing your food processor.. don’t stand above it as the water falls on it) When you’ve achieved a smooth consistency, add the mixture (be careful when pouring it out) to a deep saucepan and on medium heat bring it up to a boil. Then reduce to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes. You can now allow it to cool before you pour it into the bottle you’re serving it from or if you’re doing the canning method.. pour it while it’s hot into the mason jar. If you want the sauce to be even smoother, you can return it back to your food processor or blender and work it for another minute. Try not to go past 30 seconds to 1 minute or risk it going frothy.

This pepper sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for about 6-8 weeks, but you may find that you’ll need to give it a shake before using and it will loose some of it’s kick while in the fridge.

I encourage you to give this recipe a try, but be aware that it’s lethal and do be careful as you work with the scotch bonnet peppers.

The last thing I need is you emailing me saying that your hands are on fire because you didn’t take me seriously and wear gloves. Or worst case.. you touched your eyes or somewhere even more sensitive!

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN - PAGE 11

Dehydration

What causes bloating?

Trish Browning Contributor Summer is here, the kids are out of school and parents are busier than ever. This usually means, trips to the park, amusement centers and out door activities, which transfers to more running around, exertion, and dehydration.

You may not think about dehydration symptoms often, but every time you are thirsty, your body is telling you that it feels dehydrated. Keeping track of your daily water intake is crucial to avoiding dehydration.

Regardless of the season, winter or summer, hot or cold, people of all ages are subject to dehydration. The most important key to avoiding dehydration is to drink fluids before you become thirsty.

Since the brain is approximately 75 percent water, it is understandable that early dehydration symptoms, caused by a drop of only 3 to 5 percent of water in the body, may include decreased energy and fatigue, headaches, and dizziness. Other dehydration symptoms may include dry lips, mouth, and skin; nausea; increased body temperature, which can cause heat stroke; and labored breathing. While severe dehydration can lead to more serious health problems, it can be easily avoided by monitoring your daily water intake. You may suffer from dehydra-

Monique Bartlett Contributor

tion symptoms for a variety of reasons. Your body loses large amounts of water when you exercise, and so it is important to take frequent breaks to have a drink before continuing your workout. You will also need to increase your daily water intake if you are going to be outside for an extended period of time when the temperature is high.

No matter what the weather, it is helpful to plan ahead and bring extra bottles of water with you when you go out for you and anyone else in your group. Drinking alcoholic beverages or beverages that are high in caffeine, such as coffee or soda, can also dehydrate you, because they behave as diuretics. Therefore, it is important to drink extra water.

Remember to watch carefully for dehydration symptoms in young children and older adults, as both age groups have a high risk of suffering from dehydration. In addition, pregnant and nursing women need to increase their daily water intake to avoid dehydration symptoms and to stay healthy.

If you notice dehydration symptoms in yourself or in someone you know, get to a water source immediately.

Root Canal Therapy

prone years (6-16) has been very beneficial to our youth in Canada.

Dr. Matthew S Weekes

BSC DDS MTh DMin

Contributor

In the past toothaches resulted in the extraction of the offending teeth. For many this was the only option. Usually when the person went to the dentist there was little natural tooth structure left. This trend continued until there were several missing teeth, which were later replaced by partial or complete dentures.

Over the past 40 years, Preventive Dentistry has lead to a steady decline in the loss of teeth.

Screening children early during the cavity

Root Canal Therapy (RCT) is a common treatment performed by the dentist or dental specialist (Endodontist) that saves a tooth that otherwise would be extracted. Usually the tooth has a cavity and the bacteria has infiltrated the pulp, causing pain. If there is adequate natural tooth structure then the treatment of choice is RCT, not extraction.

Depending on the severity of the infection, the tooth can be treated in one or two visits.

After the tooth is anesthetized (frozen) the infected pulp is removed. This is called an emergency pulpectomy. It puts an end to the pain. A temporary filling is put in the tooth and medication may be prescribed.

At a subsequent visit a permanent filling is put in the tooth. Later the tooth can be restored to an ideal form by placement of a natural looking porcelain crown.

I just had a conversation with a friend of mine who described her experience at a restaurant. She felt great when she went into eat, but she came out about one pant size bigger because she was bloated. Not from the size of the meal, but obviously from what they put in it. Being “bloated” is a sign that your body is trying to protect itself from something that you ate, drank or ingested in some way.

One of the most important jobs your body has is to protect itself against foods that cause an irritation in your system. It does this by bloating. What happens is that your cells are filling with water so that that the irritation from the food you ate or what you drank, will not cause too much harm.

Bloating is a protective mechanism that has been designed by your body to protect you. When there are chemical changes inside your body, your body hangs on to water to surround the cells. This protects the cells from being harmed by what’s going on inside of you.

Two of the things that can cause bloating are: 1. Too Much Salt Now I’m sure you’ve heard that salt causes you to “retain water”... but have you ever wondered, why? Salt consists of sodium and chloride ions and when you eat salt, the sodium concentration inside your blood goes up so you have more sodium in your body.

Why is this a bad thing? Too much sodium concentration in your blood causes your nervous system to misfire and short-circuit because basically a sodium and potassium ion channel regulates every nervous impulse in your body. It holds on to water until the sodium concentration inside your blood is brought back down to a healthy level.

When you eat a large amount of salt, your body gets thirsty and you think “I need more water”... After you drink the water, your

body holds on to that water until it can filter out all that salt, and your blood drops back down to a healthy level again. However, if you are like millions of people who eat processed foods loaded with salt and sodium, then your body will continue to stay bloated.

When you have a high concentration of salt in your blood, your body has no choice but to retain water.

2. Food Allergies The second thing that causes bloating are food allergies. Food allergies are hard to recognize because everyone can have a different degree of reaction from these allergies. Some people eat a food and immediately they are rushed to the hospital because their face swells up, and their throat closes up cutting off the air passage. However, this is an extreme case. The majority of the population have more food sensitivity rather than an allergy. This is why it is not so easy to notice the signs.

One of the biggest signs of having a food allergy is bloating. After you eat a food that you are allergic to, your body gets inflamed.

The inflammation is your body’s way of protecting itself from the allergens that are caused by eating the food. Again, your body is trying to protect itself from this foreign substance that it does not like. The food is causing an allergic reaction, even if it’s a very subtle one. Your body is swelling up with water to dilute the harmful chemical reaction that is happening inside of you.

When you have an allergic reaction your body releases the hormone, cortisol which increases when you are under a lot of stress.

Your body also releases dopamine, which is the pleasure hormone to make you feel good when your body is under attack. The problem is people continue to eat these foods that are causing an allergic reaction because when they do, they get this shot of pleasure from dopamine. Unfortunately dopamine is very addictive and you end up becoming addicted to the foods that you are allergic to.

If you are experiencing consistent bloating it may be a good idea to see an allergist or a naturopath. If you’re not sure where to find one, then I would recommend starting with your doctor first. Find out what you’re allergic to and reduce your salt intake. It’s not normal to be bloated all the time and you shouldn’t have to continue to feel uncomfortable in your own skin.

PAGE 12 - WEDNESDAY, JULY 18, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Immigration matters: Work permits cancelled?

Marva Kollar Contributor Ask anyone who has obtained a temporary work permit to work legally in Canada and they will all have a story to tell. The common denominator is, a long road travelled and a mighty longer way to return home.

On June 11, 2012, the Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism announced the cancellation of work permits for strippers, escorts and massage parlour workers, effective immediately. The Minister also said that under new regulations, this category of temporary foreign workers (TFWs) from outside the country need not apply for work permits.

While there have been concerns that the adult entertainment industry has been unfairly targeted, the fact is: this is not a sudden implementation of new immigration rules. On May 16, 2007, the Honourable Diane Finley, former Minister of Citizenship and Immigration introduced Bill C-57 which proposed an amendment to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act that would allow immigration officers to refuse work permits if TFWs are judged to be at risk of exploitation.

Some adult entertainments operators strongly deny the allegation that dancers were sex trade workers, exploited, abused or have been victims of human trafficking. TFWs with valid Employment Contracts and work permits complained bitterly that cancellation of work permits without any Notice was a draconian measure.

For years, community groups across Canada lobbied for change. Many cities rewritten adult entertainment bylaw includes: zoning requirements, restricting location of adult entertainment establishments and body rub

Further things you need to know about accidental benefits vice.

Raj Napal Contributor Do I have the auto Insurance necessary to claim accidental benefits?

It is important that you know about the “priority rules”. You may think you do not have insurance to claim accident benefits when in fact you do have insurance.

Below is an example: You are the passenger in a vehicle that is involved in a motor vehicle accident. Most of you may say that you can claim on the driver’s auto insurance policy. (Perhaps the driver does not have insurance) However that is not correct, under the rules even if you do not have insurance but your spouse has auto insurance you can claim under your spouse’s policy. If you are a dependant you can claim on the policy of a parent if you live in the same household. These priority rules are complex and before you decide you do not have auto insurance for an accident benefits claim, consult us.

What if I have an accident and I go back to work but the injuries prevent me from assuming my full duties at work?

Even if you do not have any disability insurance at work, your auto insurance can help because if you can resume only part-time work, the auto insurance can provide the necessary funds so you receive a full time income, the insurance will put you on what is known as “modified duties” but you will be paid your full income. This is just one of the many complex rules which should persuade you to obtain professional legal ad-

How insurance companies can trivialize your claim and pay you very little?

Under the September 2010 changes the Minor Injuries Guidelines were introduced (“MIG”) this enables the insurance company to try to classify your injuries as minor so that the maximum coverage for all treatment costs are capped at $3,500.00. If you are seriously injured there are ways to get you out of MIG so you receive proper benefits.

Auto insurance companies closing your file.

The general rule is that the auto insurers will want to settle your accident benefit file after 1 year has elapsed form the date of the accident benefits claim. They will usually make an offer which represents less than 20% of the true value of your claim especially if you are unrepresented. If you decide not to settle with them they will put further pressure on you by telling you that they will close the file. Most unrepresented claimants believe that when the auto insurers “close” the file that is the end of their claim. This is not correct and when you receive a closing file letter from the auto insurers seek legal advice.

Your claim can be reopened as you have 2 years from the date of the denial of any particular accident benefit(s) to take the auto insurers to mediation at the FSCO and now roles will be reversed and in a lot of cases auto insurers will reevaluate your claim and give better settlement numbers as they are now under pressure through litigation.

parlours; even amended by-laws to regulate massage services establishments.

Amidst the implementation of new by-laws, regulations and fees, until the curtains were drawn on TFWs working in the adult entertainment industry, many people were oblivious to the existence of Exotic Dancer Visa or the volume of work permit issued for this type of work, yearly. Others outraged at the increase issuance of this category of visa while they were separated from family members; constantly refused visitors’ visa for years and asked, “How did they even get a work permit?”

Employers’ first responsibility was identifying a job title to fit the National Occupational Classification - NOC 5232. Secondly, Canadian citizens and Permanent Residents were given an opportunity to apply for the job posting. If unfilled, employers offered

the vacancy to TFWs, often engage in the use of an Authorized Representative to obtain a positive Labour Market Opinion (LMO).

The Authorized Representative also prepared and submitted work permit applications at visa offices representing TFWs identified in the LMO, if visa is required to enter Canada; or at the port of entry in Canada, if TFWs are visa exempted. After entering Canada, TFWs worked only with the employer and often extended their stay.

While community groups won the battle new regulations “raged war” on adult entertainment industry that lost some of the most non-indigenous professionals.

Stripped of work permits over a month ago, unbeknownst to some TFWs, they are now working the crowd or behind the curtains drawn illegally.

What being an author could do for you!

There are thousands of people who offer what you offer. Why should they buy from you? Competition is stiff today!

JG Francoeur Contributor When you become an author you instantly gain several advantages to help you promote your coaching practice. I’m not talking about “best seller” or being the next Tom Peters or John Grisham. I’m talking about becoming an author for one purpose and one purpose only that is boosting sales and income.

A Book Gives You Credibility People who write books are perceived as experts. Prospects see your name and face on a book cover and in our culture, you are viewed as credible and as an authority figure.

A Book Helps You Get Referrals One client we know offers his book “The Winning Smile” to his existing patients. He tells them to give a free copy of this book to their friends. In the book itself that he autographs in advance, he offers a free first visit for friends of existing patients. He’s busier than ever before.

A Book Helps You Differentiate Yourself from the Competition

Imagine this, a real estate agent is making a presentation to the owners of a nice house worth over $2 million. Of course, they will likely interview several agents before granting the listing to one of them. Before leaving our imaginary agent says something like this “Mr. Jones, I know and fully expect you will speak with several agents before making this important decision. Can I ask you to do just one thing before making that decision? I would like you to read one of the chapters in my book entitled “How to find a real estate agent you can trust”, then he autographs a copy of his book for the homeowner. What just happened to his competition? Obliterated!

A Book Attracts Prospects Instead of cold calling or any other outdated rejection based strategy, why not make the people who are likely to buy your product or service, come directly to you? How? Do what Rozieta Shaary did. Every week she would advertise her practice with an ad that cost $1,500. She would typically receive 15 to 20 calls every time that ad ran. She thought she could do better. After attending our seminar, I showed her how to write a book and offer it for free in the ad. The result? She consistently gets 500 phone calls every three days from the same $1500 ad.

Your Horoscope - July 18th 2012 Aries Horoscope (March 21-April 20): Over the next week, Mars puts pressure on Pluto while building toward a confrontation with Uranus.

Mid next week, a major lid can blow. Mercury retrograde re-creates the past in some significant way, but it’s a different game this time around. The now provides an exceptional opportunity to repeat a success and/or turn it completely around.

Libra Horoscope (Sept. 23Oct. 22): Unplug and allow for the unexpected this weekend. By design or serendipity, a step back can be a major step forward. A family reunion, special event, or surprise reconnection stimulates a flood of memories. Relocation, a return home, a repetition, or a resurrection can be a golden ticket. Tuesday and Wednesday, it all hits at once. You can’t stop it once it’s in action.

Taurus Horoscope (April 21May 21): A weekend escape may be ideal, but a confrontation with the inevitable can be put off no longer. Confidence or security may have recently gained ground; still, Mercury’s backtrack can hit you where you’re most vulnerable. What’s exposed now sets an opportune stage for improvement. Mid next week, a sharp corner turn springboards you into a new reality.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): When Mercury tours retrograde, it’s not a time to forge ahead. Heed the insistence of your instincts and take the next few weeks to reprioritize and give yourself a well-deserved break.

Step back, allow things to run their natural course, and it should all get sorted out, perhaps even better than hoped for. Mid next week pushes or thrusts you past it.

Gemini Horoscope (May 23June 20): If you’ve already booked vacation time for the coming weeks, you can thank your inner genius for staying a step ahead of the stars. Moment to moment is the best way to play Friday and Saturday, as first Uranus and then Mercury start retrograde cycles. Significant reconnections, revisits, and reappearances can be expected.

Even so, there’s surprise in store.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov. 22-Dec. 20): You may be forced to admit that a goal, an approach, or a prospect isn’t working out as well as you had hoped, or that a lot more investment is required. Uranus and Mercury retrograde strip it down for you. By mid next week’s informing fresh page, your best bets should become more obvious. Why fight it? Go where the getting is good.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21July 20): The anticipation can be half the pain or half the fun.

You are on a countdown now, but your emotions are likely to be on a major buildup curve. You may or may not have something big in your plans, but the stars most certainly do. Friday, Saturday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, watch for something unexpected to be stirred into the pot.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec. 21-Jan. 20): You stand at a window-of-opportunity threshold. Over the next week, you’ll get a much better handle on what’s doable and best, for you and for all. Nothing is small or insignificant: it’s all big-picture stuff, and it’s all on the line.

Tuesday and Wednesday prompt decisive action. A wrong can be quickly righted.

Leo Horoscope (July 21Aug. 22): Fresh, new, even radical is where it’s at. With such different tastes, cravings, perceptions, and interests, you may second-guess your sanity, but get used to it—this is your new norm. Navigating through Leo this time around, Mercury retrograde allows you extra time to test-drive the new you. Tuesday and Wednesday, impulsiveness or a flash moment can sweep you away.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug. 23Sept. 22): Beyond the typical annoyances or backtracks that Mercury retrograde can deliver, the next few weeks should prove to be exceptionally informing and revealing. Through your own insights or circumstances, you are about to learn what you already know but have not yet fully realized. Mid next week sets you on a fresh new track, perhaps suddenly.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan. 21-Feb. 18): Beginning Friday, Uranus retrograde sharpens your radar. During Mercury retrograde, something lost can be found again. Beyond a retrieval of items or memories, the cycle can refresh creativity, hope, enthusiasm, or libido. A significant someone may make a reappearance. Mid next week, watch for Mars and Uranus to send it into high flight or overdrive.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb. 18-March 20): Whether ancient history, buried somewhere, or housed deep within your heart, something long out of sight can resurrect itself. Uranus and Mercury retrograde revive you with fresh perspective and opportunity. Now’s your chance to resolve it, update it, or set it free.

Mid next week, the exceptional or unexpected can come to pass in a flash.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN - PAGE 13

PAGE 14 - WEDNESDAY, JULY 18, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Your voice makes the difference

Tammy Flores Contributor Thank-you so much for writing to your MPP’s and the Provincial Ombudsman.

Your collective voices will count. We cannot do anything without you. Please keep writing.

I understand by some of the responses I am getting back that the Ministry of Transportation is still giving out misinformation. They continue to say to the public that the Province lost a court battle with the 407 ETR in 2006 and that is why their hands are tied.

They like to use that spin to justify why they have been blindly honoring the 407 ETR’s requests for Plate Denial. I would like to clarify this for you so that when you write back to your MPP’s and the Provincial Ombudsman, you will have a response to that spin.

I am sure you will agree with me that there is a huge difference between entering into an amicable agreement and being forced, by order of the court, into a situation you don’t want to be in. The truth of the matter is that the Province entered into an amicable agreement with the 407 ETR in 2006.

Schedule B of that agreement speaks to the Plate Denial process being enforceable with lawful charges. The 407 ETR’s practice of invoice suppression has caused invoices to be sent out years after they claim a charge may have occurred. Thousands of dollars in interest usually accumulates within that time period and people just receive a whopper of a bill, with no details whatsoever. This is not just unlawful, but down right criminal in my opinion.

Section 314 of the Criminal Code speaks to a threshold of what interest charges would be considered criminal. There are also Usury Laws that go beyond just a consideration of a percentage of interest that would be considered to be extortion and speaks more to what is crossing the line of being justifiable interest. You don’t have to be a lawyer or a judge to see that what the 407 ETR has been doing crosses that line.

Please do not give up your letter writing campaign. We have an uphill battle, but your voices will make a difference.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN - PAGE 15