TRINIDAD Living In Fear of Each Other 070214

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TRINIDAD Living in fear of each other - Becoming a prisoner in your own home

CINDY RAMKUMAR/TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Looking back about fifteen years ago, the twin island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago was such a peaceful country, people slept with their windows and doors open, entry gates were wide open all day, neighbours walked from house to house without fear or prejudice and Trinidadians did what they do best

partied day and night, peacefully. Any visitor to Trinidad would remember beautiful days of inter-racial sharing and tolerance, beautiful days of going to the beaches at any hour of the day or night and having a blast. As a country the people were one, regardless of race, colour, sex or size, people were friendly,

outgoing, and welcoming to every person that came to their home. Trinidadians loved life, they loved everything about their country, they churned out leaders, beautiful contestants, scholars, models, athletes, educators and model parents and kids.

Continued On Page 3

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Amrita Ramsingh; wife, mother of two and a successful business owner Do you believe a person can really change? Do you believe in happy endings?

Amrita was born and raised in Guyana to very happy and humble parents. She moved to Canada along with two sisters and a brother. It did not take Amrita very long to realize that there were endless opportunities for women in Canada compared to Guyana. Between going to school and working several part time jobs at places like McDonalds, Tim Hortons, and several factories, she never stopped growing and learning. Amrita spent 10 years in the banking industry working as an Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Analyst while raising two little ones. But something was missing. She was not really following her dreams. She had gained a lot of weight after having children, and knew she needed to change. Amrita quit her Job at CIBC and

focused on her health, raising her children while continuing her education.

Amrita is now a successful Personal Trainer, Nutrition Consultant and Life Coach. Helping women live happier, healthier lives and finding balance.

Amrita saw the need for this after going through her own weight loss struggles and watching other women struggle. Amrita works with busy moms, travelling to their homes so they are able to train in the comfort of their own home. Amrita also works with older adults who are looking to live healthy lives in their golden years. So if you are going through struggles in life drop her email amrita@ curveappeal.ca

Wimbledon Cup Champion, Marion Bartoli, pledges a school in Jamaica TORONTO -- Former professional tennis star and 2013 Wimbledon Cup Champion, Marion Bartoli has pledged her support to build a brand new school in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

During a heart-warming visit to the island earlier this year with Jamaica native and Rogers Cup Tournament Director, Karl Hale, Bartoli was deeply inspired by the warmth of its people. “Jamaica is well known for its tourist destinations and irie vibes. But after meeting real locals and travelling to their communities, I learned that some of the citizens may have a different experience of island living, “ describes Bartoli. “I felt the need to do something to help my new friends in Ja-

maica.”

Bartoli partnered with Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation, a Canadian charity dedicated to building new schools in struggling areas of Jamaica, and has committed to the construction of a new school, to be completed by April, 2015.

To help raise financial support for the project, the retired athlete is performing a rare exhibition match in Jamaica on Friday, April 24, 2015. The exhibition will count to-

wards the Jamaica Tennis ITF Championship.

“Giving back isn’t always about just financial support. Sometimes you just have to dive in and make a real, impactful change on people’s lives when you can. My hope is that more pro-athletes join in, and that this basic school is the first of many!”

ABOUT MARION BARTOLLI: Marion Bartoli is a French former professional tennis player.

She won the 2013 Wimbledon Championships singles title after

previously being runner-up in 2007, and was a semifinalist at the 2011 French Open.

ABOUT HELPING HANDS JAMAICA: The mission of Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation is to improve the lives of the next generation of Jamaicans by improving literacy and building schools, through investing in infrastructure, resource materials and expertise. Since 2006, Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation has raised over $775,232.00 to support schools, hospitals, and local communities all over Jamaica. Over 4,000 children’s’ lives have been touched through the generosity of their donors and supporters. Visit helpinghandsjamaica.com for more information.

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Trinidad - A country destined for failure? nals?

Cindy Ramkumar TC Reporter Continued From Page 1 -- Today, this beauty is all gone. People live in fear of each other. This same fear has made them prisoners in their own home, their homes have become death traps waiting to happen, every door and window covered with steel burglar proof, to protect them in their homes from the evils of the outside world, but the burglar proof has become a safety hazard causing deaths as people are unable to flee their homes when intruders break in, or fire breaks out.

Oh beautiful country, what have you become, prisoners walk free, guns and drugs perpetuate its streets, innocent hide behind bars and criminals own everything. Once famous and called land of the Steelpan and Scarlet Ibis is now labelled as a travel advisory to visitors. Trinidad as a country is ruled by corrupt politicians who forget the people who put them in power and fill their pockets from the poor coffers.

Its school children lack pride in their attire, lack respect for adults and somewhere along the way forgot their morals, values and upbringing.

Children are having children, moms are in despair and dads are nowhere to be found. This lack of social upbringing has churned out thousands of youths without education, without fear of authority and who need quick money to survive. This desire for quick money has escalated to murders, kidnappings, armed robberies and boldfaced daylight crimes. The society in this once beautiful country is crumbling, generations of morals are being eroded by the need for money, and power.

Nationals are asking what do they do, and while the answer seems very obvious which is to take back their country from the thugs and corrupt politicians, it’s a very difficult task to undertake. Solidarity of the people is a must, but it often leads the onlooker to ask the question, at what price do the citizens of this country seek solidarity? Is it at the expense of losing their lives, at the expense of being exploited by the politicians, or is it at the expense of watching their hard earned money which they worked decades to accumulate move into the hands of the crimi-

My dear land, mothers are dying daily because of stray bullets and criminals blatant disregard for human life, kids are dying of unknown causes in our hospitals and our doctors share no blame, no one seems to be held accountable for the deaths that are prevalent in this country. What has this twin island republic become? Crime rate statistics are alarming for a country of only about 1.3 million people. Reported statistics for May 2014, by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service Serious Crime Statistics database are; 29 murders, 160 break-ins and 179 robberies, 45 motor vehicle theft just to identify a few.

Recently, spawning from a million-dollar heist, a male security guard was murdered on the highway.

There still has not been any resolution, the perpetrators will never be convicted because the population is not willing to provide any information, neither is the police service quick to expedite any action. Again another incident, a young woman was gunned down on Saturday June 21, 2014 while holding her fivemonth-old baby in her arms. The mother succumbed to her death, the child is lucky to be alive. This was a gang related activity.

We cannot forget , that while Trinidad is still classed as a third world country, even though it has been classified as the most developed and capitalised of the Caribbean, the public service and justice system still operates as if it were under colonial days, lack of efficiency or care is rampant in every public office that a national may visit.

This type of mentality begs to ask the question, is this country destined for failure?

While the nationals scratch their heads and ponder their future, the politicians fill their pockets with monies from hard working people, the police continue to kill in broad daylight by accidental bullets, and criminals walk amongst the people as if they own the country, Trinidad will always remain under travel advisory, it will always remain as a third world country, and it will always be riddled by crime, stray bullets, promiscuity, and greed.

The politicians in power and authority, need to wake up, regain control of the country from its criminal elements and underground drug world and give the people of the country what they deserve, and rightfully what is theirs, the ability to walk and live free without fear of life in this once beautiful twin island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

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Wednesday, July 2, 2014

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

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Central Bank Governor: Skills shortage in finance sector TRINIDAD -- Central Bank Governor Jwala Rambarran says T&T needs to turn to the diaspora to help with a potentially crippling skills deficit in the financial services sector.

Speaking at an Institute of Banking and Finance of T&T (IBFTT) graduation ceremony at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad on Saturday evening, Rambarran said like many leading financial institutions the Central Bank is not immune to this worrying situation.

“T&T needs to be able to draw from a bigger pool than it currently has. We are seeing greater demand for specialised financial skills: anti-money laundering, actuarial science, risk management and wealth management. Such a process of recapitalisation should begin by addressing the need to draw out pockets of talent that currently remains untapped. Here we should quickly leverage our Trinidadian diaspora community. Our diaspora includes first and higher generation migrants, as well as people who have historical links with T&T and can potentially contribute to its welfare,” he said.

Rambarran added, “Many of us have a narrow definition of the diaspora as those born in the country, but living outside the country.

However, if we include others with historical links to T&T, our diaspora becomes at least 360,000 strong, consisting of highly skilled workers, graduates from colleges and universities, management and other professionals. We need to find ways to fully tap into this potential labour pool for human capital and financial investment.”

Rambarran highlighted the importance of the Government Assistance for Tuition Expenses (GATE) Programme noting than an average of 53,000 students annually had benefitted from it over the past five years.

However, he questioned its effectiveness, noting that 70 per cent of GATE funding focused on management, educational services, data processing/IT, engineering, health services, natural and pure sciences and accounting. He suggested that the programme be better aligned to the country’s economic priorities and future skills needs.

“Finance, of course, is one economic priority area. At the Central Bank, we are helping to build this financial ecosystem through two major initiatives. Over the past decade, we have partnered with De La Rue, our currency printers, to offer the annual prestigious De La Rue Scholarship to students pursuing post-graduate studies in

economics.

“This year, as we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we are offering five De La Rue Scholarships beyond economics to finance and actuarial science, areas in which we are building skills. From 2015, we will offer three De La Rue Scholarships,” he said. Rambarran added: “Since 2007, we have spearheaded the National Financial Literacy Programme (NFLP) to equip our citizens with the knowledge, skills and tools to make informed financial decision. We are now transforming the NFLP into an accredited training agency. One of the programmes of this new agency will be a certificate in Central Banking that will provide our entry level staff with broad-based knowledge and understanding of monetary policy, financial supervision and reserve management.”

He said another option for filling the skills gap is to make it easier for the mobility of workers in the region, as well as establishing a common framework for skills recognition to give employers and employees the confidence to move more freely across borders. Rambarran said there reports of difficulties being faced by finance and other professionals moving from one country to another because their qualifications are not recognised.

“I have heard one highly successful Trinidad businessman lament that it is far easier for him to hire a security guard from Nigeria, than to employ a financial analyst from Nigeria. At a time when skills shortages are acute, such barriers cannot be allowed to remain. We need to consider creating a common framework for skills recognition that gives employers and employees the confidence they needs to move more freely across borders,” he said.

“In the longer term, we need to review the financial architecture that governs skills and human capital, if we are to avoid breakdowns in the future. We must develop a strong eco-system that puts programmes in place to address the financial skills gaps before they become more critical. As we seek to build a knowledge driven economy, tertiary education must play an increasingly important role in enhancing the country’s human capital base. Tertiary education imparts knowledge and high-level skills, as well as provides basic and applied research needed to support innovation and entrepreneurship.”

(Trinidad Guardian)

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Wednesday, July 2, 2014

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Thousands rally against tossing out buggery act; shout out for clean, righteous living JAMAICA -- Police last night estimated that around 25,000 Jamaicans turned out in their black, green and gold to support the Jamaica CAUSE (Churches Action Uniting Society for Emancipation) mass rally in Half-Way-Tree, St Andrew.

The rally called on Jamaicans to stand up for strong and healthy families, righteousness and justice as well as to resist the homosexual agenda and the repealing of the buggery act.

“I think this initiative is very good because it is important that we have a voice, because a lot of different things have been happening in Jamaica and we have to stand up,” said Camille Morrison, while adding that it not just goes against God’s will but against humanity, and in terms of homosexuality, biologically “di ting don’t mek sense and as such it should not be imposed upon people as if it is something right.”

After a short praise and worship session, the chairman of the rally, Alvin Bailey spoke to uniting every Jamaican, church, temple, and other institutions.

“We will do all that is righteous and Godly to accomplish the cause”, said Bailey, highlighting that Jamaica is a society that demands respect and recognition of sovereignty.

“Our emancipation means standing up for strong families, our emancipation means standing against the homosexuality agenda, emancipation for us means standing up against the repealing of the buggery law,” Bailey told the crowd, much to shouts of agreement.

Organisers said that there would be a series of talks and prayers throughout the evening to make people aware of what is happening.

“The seeds of greed and selfishness

have been sown in the soil of corruption in public and private sector,” said Rev Donald Cole, in commenting on the state of the nation.

“As a people, we have compromised to crime, violence, immorality, abuse of the weak and disrespect of authority. When young people rape and kill each other we should take a serious look at what they’re watching and hearing,” said Cole, insisting that the church has faced and is still facing a challenge to be part of the solution in this crisis.

He said that the prophetic voice of the church is often ignored or discarded, yet the church is often accused of negligence.

Cole went on to say that in more recent times

there has been an attempt to deny and refute Jamaica’s laws and that if the symbols of the country such as the National Anthem and National Pledge are acknowledged and honoured, then Jamaica would be a social and economic model.

Cole said that the church will increase its prophetic role and will not be silenced, especially when it ought to be speaking boldly.

“We are standing here today because we want to see the moral thermometer of our nation rise again,” Cole said, while highlighting that the process of restoring the old boundary stones of right and wrong, lawful and unlawful and good and evil, should begin.

“Jamaica’s children belong to Jesus,” rang out the cry of advocate Betty-Ann Blaine, who invited the crowd to shout as she took the stage. She also encouraged the audience to spend more time with their children and go back to the book of Genesis.

“We not gonna mek dem mis-educate our children, we not gonna mek dem misinform our children,” shouted Blaine, who appealed to the crowd to make sure that children go back to Sunday School.

Blaine said that there has been a 72 per cent increase in buggery among children and as such “there is no way we changing the buggery law”.

“These folks not interested in people like me ... me too old. Is the children them after,” stated Blaine who revealed that she went to a funeral of a nine-month-old baby who was buggered and then killed.

She told the crowd that “we not teking that kind of sex education to our children,” and urged parents to ensure that their child know that their body was the temple of God and that sex should stay until they have a career and get married.

“The battle is about your child. Let us declare again that Jamaican children belong to Jesus. We are going to fight, dem nuh see me fight yet, we are going to fight for our children, they will not get our children,” Blaine said before exiting the stage.

A prayer by pastor Harry Walcott and a speech by President of the Love March Movement Daniel Thomas were among the other items on the programme.

Cause volunteers invited people to sign a petition against the repealing of the buggery law which will be sent to the prime minster. (Jamaica Observer)

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

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Confusion over $1m toilet in Curepe TRINIDAD -- Confusion surrounds the purchase of a $1 million toilet that has remained unused in Curepe Junction for the past six years. The stainless steel automated public toilet (APT), which was purchased in 2008 by general manager of Specialist Lighting Ltd, Deborah Maillard for the then People’s National Movement-led Tunapuna Piarco Regional Corporation (TPRC), was the subject of an investigation by the Integrity Commission (IC) into its procurement process.

The two-unit toilet, the first and only in T&T and the Caribbean, Maillard said, would have provided the public with a safe and clean facility. Former chairman of the TPRC Khadijah Ameen said after she assumed office in 2010, the IC wrote the corporation requesting procurement documents on the toilet. “I sent a box filled with files to the commission,” Ameen disclosed on Thursday.

Since then, Ameen said, she had not received any feedback. From the outset, Ameen said, the APT had been plagued with problems.

“First there was objection to the toilet’s location. Then we discovered that a contract was issued for the maintenance of the toilet and a $30,000 cheque for the first job had to be stopped by the corporation because it was way too much,” Ameen said. Ameen said it

would have cost the TPRC $42,000 a month to upkeep the public convenience, to which she was opposed; hence, the reason it had never functioned.

“That’s when council in 2012 passed a resolution to get a buyer for the toilet, but this fell through the cracks after the 2013 local government elections. “If the resolution has expired the new council has the authority to come up with another decision if they so wish.”

According to PNM St Joseph/Valsayn councillor Marcia Chan Pak, who sits on the eight-month old council in whose electoral district the toilet is placed, the corporation’s CEO “does have possession of the keys.”

On Friday, the IC’s public relations officer Mervyn Crichlow said matters investigated by the IC are private and he could not divulge its findings. Questioned about the investigation, Maillard said “the IC clarified that neither I nor my company were the subject of or was under investigation by the IC.” She said the toilet was installed and commissioned and an additional advisory service was provided gratis to the corporation for several months.

“Delays could have arisen if the corporation was waiting on a connection from TSTT. This connection is important to facilitate some of the APT’s capabilities, which allow for communication

with emergency services in the event that the occupant of the APT is sensed to have stopped moving,” Maillard said.

Maillard said after six years of the toilet not operating, a complete assessment of the unit would have to be made.

“Before we can do this, however, we have to ensure that it can even be switched on. The assessment exercise could take one to three months depending on the findings.” She said her company gave a demonstration to all 14 corporations, but the TPRC and San Fernando showed the most interest. Patricia Mejias under whose chairmanship the toilet was purchased said it was not she who gave approval for the APT, but former permanent secretary in the Ministry of Local Government Indra FurlongKelly.

A $500,000 downpayment was made towards the public convenience.

Money from the corporation that was scheduled to go back to the ministry’s consolidated fund was used to purchase the unit, Mejias said. “They tried to implicate me. I was not involved in the awarding of the contract. I don’t know why they requested an investigation because everything was done above board.

I know it have manual toilets in this country that have been built for more than $1 million.”

Mejias said the corporation had

purchased the toilet because it created a healthy environment and met the needs of the physically challenged and visually impaired. “The toilet never worked because a foreign installation crew that was supposed to train a team of corporation workers for a year to operate the mechanics of the toilets never happened.”

Chairman of the TPRC, Edwin Gooding, said the council was trying to unravel what went wrong with the contract since the “toilet was a big investment. It’s a big issue for the corporation...one that we are trying to address.”

Gooding said steps had already been taken to contact Maillard to find out if she had the competence to service the toilet, otherwise the council would have to contact the main supplier in New Zealand. “We are not going to sell the toilet.

We just want it to work.”

Toilet features •Fully automated.

•Self-cleaning.

•Vandal-resistant.

•Air conditioned.

•Users get a fresh sanitised seat every time.

•Baby changing table.

•Safety (Trinidad Guardian)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Kamla Persad-Bissessar congratulates Ramadhar TRINIDAD -- Soon after the results of Sunday’s COP internal elections were confirmed, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar sent a congratulatory message to re-elected political leader Parkash Ramadhar.

Persad-Bissessar who praised all three candidates for their participation and work in strengthening their party’s institutions, said: “Today, the

COP’s peaceful democratic exercise has consolidated the belief of all partners of the People’s Partnership and indeed all citizens who looked on with interest, in standing together and providing a strong, compassionate leadership that listens.

“As partners standing together in Government, I look forward to our continued focus on making our country a great and proud one with our work and

commitment to prosperity for all citizens.” The prime minister said she was confident the COP “will now put aside any differences that may have come about during the campaign, so that we can all continue working towards a successful completion of our first term as the People’s Partnership, and a strong campaign for re-election in 2015”. (Trinidad Guardian)

Prakash on election victory: I got my act together TRINIDAD -- Congress of the People (COP) leader Prakash Ramadhar, whose leadership style was constantly attacked by his political rivals on the campaign trail, emerged victorious in the party’s internal elections Sunday. Declaring he is now the “unambiguous” leader of the COP, Ramadhar edged out his main opponent, the party’s chairman Carolyn Seepersad-Bachan by 444 votes.

“We are no longer unsure about who is the leader of the COP.” he said.

“A very small but loud group has been saying get your act together. Well, tonight, I got my act together.” In his victory speech at Gaston Courts, Chaguanas, Ramadhar said his recently deceased father always told him, ‘Once your heart is pure and your ambition clean you will attain victory.’

Of the 2, 673 COP members who cast their ballots in the leadership elections, Ramadhar got 1,472 votes.

Seepersad-Bachan got 1,028 votes, while deputy political leader Dr Lincoln Douglas got 162. Rufus Foster, who pulled out of the race at the last minute and announced he was backing Seepersad-Bachan, got four votes.

Just after 6 pm, results coming in from polling stations showed that Ramadhar was in the lead. At 6.25 pm, he made his way into Gaston Courts, where

the results were being announced, followed by a group of cheering supporters.

Five minutes later, he gave his victory speech to a small crowd of COP members. Despite the rain, it was an evening bright with hope for the country, he said.

Ramadhar wasted little time in declaring that the party’s next priority is preparing for the 2015 general election.

“In less than a year, we shall face a general election,” he said Making it clear whose side the COP was on, he said the PNM was not an option because leader Dr Keith Rowley intended to bring back all that the party stood against. “The way forward is very clear and simple but difficult. The COP must retain its position in the Partnership with a strong, independent voice.” Ramadhar said he planned to speak with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar later in the night.

COP vice-chairman Nicole Dyer-Griffith said the party’s first priority is to elect a new national executive whose members will support the leader as he goes forward. Ramadhar hugged Seepersad-Bachan and Douglas when they arrived at Gaston Courts at around 7.30 pm and said he has opened his heart and hands to all, even those outside the COP, to build the kind of nation all dream of.

Of the 18,000 eligible voters in the COP,

only 2,673 came out to vote and Ramadhar expressed disappointment at that.

In response to questions from the media, he said the wounds inflicted during the campaign were not severe and the healing process will not be so hard.

He took the attacks by candidates on his leadership style in good stead, saying he has always been a warrior.

He said a lot of COP members did not come out to vote because they said they were depressed over the nature of the fight between the candidates. Also, polling stations were 15 to 20 miles apart and people had to go far to vote. Ramadhar said the next COP elections will be electronic. Seepersad-Bachan told supporters this was not the end for her but the beginning. She said she remained committed to the core principles of the COP adding that the low voter turnout was of deep concern to her.

“We fought a good fight and kept our campaign clean.” she said Asked how she felt in her failed mission to be elected the new COP leader, she replied: “The members have spoken.” Douglas, in conceding defeat, said he was sad he had lost but was never one to be daunted.

He said he remained committed to the party. (Trinidad Guardian)

Fire destroys chowmein factory, two homes GUYANA -- More than a dozen people are now homeless after a fire of so far unknown origin destroyed a chowmein factory and two neighbouring buildings at Sisters Village, West Bank Demerara (WBD) around 23:30 hrs on Saturday.

There are reports that the fire started at the chowmein factory, located at Lot 23 Sisters Village and then spread to the other two buildings which housed five families.

The owner of the chowmein factory, a Chinese national identified only as “Su” is reportedly in police custody assisting with information.

Some of the homeless persons are Nariman Khalil, 46; her husband, Manesh Manuhar; their sons, Rajendra Manuhar and Munesh Manuhar; daughter, Marisa Khalil and grandson, Navin Chan.

They shared an apartment at Lot

22 Sister’s Village. Three other apartments were in that building but everything was reduced to ashes. This newspaper was unable to locate the other tenants.

Sukhrani Somra, 68, and her 41-year-old son, Kenrick Marks lived at the two storey building at Lot 21 Sister’s Village, which also went up in flames.

When this newspaper arrived at the scene Sunday, only the concrete structure was left on Somra’s home and various parts of the zinc structure remained on what was once a chowmein factory.

The 68-year-old woman told this newspaper that she was in bed Saturday night when she heard people shouting “fire, fire, fire.”

“When I get up there was smoke everywhere and me and my son had to hurry and get out of the house.

We couldn’t save anything. My money, jewelry get burn, even my pension book, house transport and so. I don’t know what I gun do now,” the elderly woman lamented.

She said that she believed the fire was of electrical origin.

“When the fire started, nobody aint went in the factory so I think is something sparked.”

Meanwhile, Nariman Khalil whose apartment is closer to the chowmein factory said that she and her husband saw a bright light through their window and then saw flames.

“We run out and start shout on everybody to come out because the fire was too much and nobody could have saved anything,” the woman said. Investigations are ongoing.(Kaiteur News)

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

ʻTriniʼ culinary delight Nichole Hall’s Super’s Spicy Doubles spreading twin-island cooking gospel JAMAICA -- Originally from the twin islands of Trinidad and Tobago, Nichole Hall and her ‘sweet hand’ have found their culinary niche in the melting pot of cuisine offerings in Jamaica.

The owner of Super’s Spicy Doubles is a caterer who aims to provide a variety of authentic Trini delicacies, made fresh to order from scratch.

Hall and a friend started the business in November last year when she closed the doors of her law practice and traded cases for curry. The former paralegal told the Jamaica Observer that she always wanted to do Trini food and the business ‘just happened’.

“I closed my office on the first of November,” said the mother of two who has been with her Jamaican husband and two children for 23 years. “I started cooking on the 11th of November and it hasn’t stopped,” she said.

In true Caribbean style, praises of her food spread orally into the flourishing business that it is today.

Her menu includes doubles, an indigenous Indian fast food, buss-up-shut and dhalpurie, both types of roti with the side options of curried potato and channa (chick peas), pumpkin, curried chicken and anchar (mango). For breakfast options, she offers coconut and fry bake, both Trini bread substitutes, and sada roti with a choice of baigan (eggplant) or tomato choka, saltfish buljol and fry aloo (potato).

Currants rolls, coconut rolls and kurma are sweet snacks with aloo pie and pholorie as savoury treats. To wash it all down, mauby, a Caribbean drink, is also available. Pelau Saturdays have been very popular, as well as her pastelles and Poncha Creme at Christmas-

time.

But her culinary creative skill knows no bounds. “I tell people, if it’s not on the menu, and you really want it, we’ll make it,” she said, with aspirations of adding saheena and Trini favourite bake and shark/catfish to her line-up.

Hall stressed that her Monabased business operates solely through delivering in Kingston and St Andrew, with orders being taken through her self-titled social media, as she has alarmingly had food enthusiasts show up at her front door.

Like many, her success has not been without a few stumbling blocks.

Hall recalls making some dumplinglike doubles in her trial stages and struggling with the issue of timely deliveries, but she said that she has really honed her craft in the last year. She

was able to recall a bad moment turned good.

“This man got his food late,” Hall began, “and he called and was really mad. Next day, I got a call. ‘This is Mister so-and-so and I got your food Sunday and was really, really mad because it was late. But you know what happened? As I started eating the food, the anger started receding. Your food is delicious. Don’t stop doing what you’re doing.’”

Hall said that the support she has received from the T&T students at the University of the West Indies (UWI) and University of Technology (Utech) has been overwhelming.

“Oh man, they’re happy. People are amazed that I have chandon beni and they’re glad that there’s finally real doubles in Jamaica,” she stated.

She also has a following in Ja-

maicans who have studied in Trinidad, and “society madams” who order bussup shut for their parties. Jamaicans who try her food for the first time also sing her praises.

“They come back. Even the sceptics come back,” she said.

Hall’s Trini fare has been served at various events across Jamaica, including Pandemonium, an inaugural lecture at UWI Mona and a J’ouvert party. She has also catered to the Trinidad and Tobago Student’s Association carnival band but her most esteemed service is to the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission. She caters mostly to parties, lymes and dinners.

Crediting her culinary skills to her mother and aunts, Hall said that she has had several requests from satisfied customers to expand her delivery base, though she does not see it happening in the near future.

“People all over Jamaica are calling me. They want me to open a shop in Mandeville, Montego Bay and Ochi,” she said.

But the Super’s Spicy Doubles brand will soon hit the shelves.

“My signature sauces that I put on my doubles will be in supermarkets in probably another month or so,” Hall told the Sunday Observer.

Hall said that she has enjoyed serving the complete Trini culinary experience and is hopeful for continued success in the future.

“There was a saying that I heard once, which says: ‘All you need in life to succeed is one good idea from God.’ And I think this is mine.”(Jamaica Observer)

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Young T&T Sound Engineer Makes Magic in Antigua & Barbuda General ElectionAids ABLP In Securing Big Win Aba Luke Entertainment “Antigua and Barbuda’s got a great deal to be happy about after that general election on the island.” This sentiment, echoed by a Trinidadian music and commercial producer may seem a bit simple and even rash to some, but having been through a whirlwind yet positively impacting experience during election week in Antigua and Barbuda recently, PengCo Music’s Randal Alexander isn’t just talking.

The Antigua Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) secured a victory in the general elections just two weeks ago and T&T’s Alexander and a team of very industrious young minds aided in the final result, no doubt. Just ten days in the lead up to the polls, Alexander was called upon to deliver a jingle that would promote and consequently help the party win the general election. “I was contacted by the ABLP to produce “the freedom day anthem” - a song that voters could catch on to easily- a song that had a mix of victory and fun in it.

They said they wanted it now,” explained Alexander.

No stranger to this type of scenario, having done several advertising jingles for various companies in the past, Alexander accepted the challenge and immediately got down to work. He said based on the specifics outlined to him by his employer, he contacted T&T’s Esther Dyer and Orange Sky’s Nigel Rojas. Within hours, their creative minds having meshed perfectly, the jingle was written, vocalized, mixed and mastered. And it turned out to be exactly what the political party wanted- a mixture of victory and fun, an ad that would see Dyer immediately become included on the cast of artistes billed to perform at the ABLP’s final rally alongside such acts as Luciano, IOctane and Demarco. Added to that, just hours after the initial call had been placed to Alexander in T&T for the creation of the jingle, he was told that a full-fledged television ad for the jingle would be needed immediately. With that, Alexander and his team were Antigua and Barbuda bound.

“It all happened so fast. One minute I was in Trinidad and the next, I was filming shots with my crew, in Antigua.

We spent a couple sleepless nights but we worked our butts off and we got the job

done,” said Alexander. His personal drive to deliver, he said, has always worked well for his clients and so when the result was announced following the election, Alexander wasn’t too surprised. “We weren’t responsible for the party’s win. I’d never say that, but we sure did put the icing on the cake,” he said with a grin. His joy for having been a part of the winning team is easily visible but according to Alexander, there’s more to his euphoria. “I think this win in Antigua- Prime Minister Gaston Brown’s role as leader at the age of 47, is a good thing. The generation gap is a real thing and it is a hindrance to progress.

While the elders may be wiser and know how to get things done, the youths have the muscle. The youths also know what their counterparts want. Before Synergy TV, young people our age weren’t allowed in the media. Everybody was over 30 years of age- even 40 and they were trying to create productions to appeal to 16 –year- olds. Now, don’t get me wrong, it’s not impossible, but a 16 -year- old has a better idea of what a 16-year- old wants.

I’m not saying that companies should go ahead and hire 16-year- olds to run their businesses, but maybe give 23- year- olds a chance. Because of Mr. Brown’s age he may be more inclined to invest in technology, tertiary education and the arts. The Prime Minister’s age serves Antigua and Barbuda well, with its large youth electorate (approximately 48%). He can close this generation gap and serve the youths and in return he can get some muscle from them,” rationalized Alexander.

Amped up over this recent experience and having proven that he can certainly deliver great work even under immense pressure, Alexander is readying his team for the projects that will undoubtedly come. “We’ve already been getting calls from agencies regarding similar projects and we’re ready. I’ve done several corporate jingles for companies such as NLCB, Magnum Tonic Wine and Ferreira Optical among others, and I think my strongpoint is being able to bridge the gap between the corporate sector and the common man,” said Alexander, explaining that there’s a way of delivering the objectives and desires of the corporate companies, via jingles that the man on the street would easily understand. That however is his secret and with that his final word, Alexander says he can be contacted via email at pengconcepts@gmail.com for further information.

Consumed by the joy felt following the result in Antigua, Randal Alexander says he’s ready to conquer the corporate world- a feat he isn’t afraid of in the least. (EtceteraBuzz.com)

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WI wilt under Williamsonʼs 161 TRINIDAD -- There was a nicely poised Test match in progress when a tossing breeze brought with it rain. It volleyed down on the Kensington Oval field and what started as a drizzle at 1.43 pm, resulted in puddles of water by 2.30 pm.

At 4.30 pm the groundsmen were good enough to get cricket on the park again, however the rain returned at 4.51 pm. The result—a badly affected fourth day of the third and final Test of the West Indies versus New Zealand series, which now seems likely to end in a draw.

When the elements came for the second and final time, New Zealand was battling manfully on 331 for six wickets—a lead of 307 runs with four wickets standing.

Batting first the Kiwis were bowled out for 293 to which the West Indies replied with 317.

New Zealand will begin today’s final day with the brilliant Kane Williamson unbeaten on 161 and with him will be Mark Craig on four. Williamson has so far batted for 383 minutes in which time he has negotiated 271 balls, hitting 22 fours.

If the West Indies can quickly remove the next four New Zealand batsmen, they might fancy a chase but if the Kiwis continued to bat too deep into today’s play— the West Indies may opt to bat out and the onus will be on the visitors to force the win.

Sunday, New Zealand resumed on 123 for three and before parishioners could have come out of Sunday service at St Mary’s Cathedral, New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum was back in the pavil-

ion. He fell leg-before to Kemar Roach for 25, giving the Barbadian his 99th Test wicket and his seventh for the match.

The struggling right hander ended a dismal series with the bat, scoring 87 runs at an average of 14.50.

Jimmy Neesham joined Williamson and the momentum shifted soon after. Both men enjoying the form of their lives batted beautifully. While Williamson gathered runs with neat strokes, Neesham counter-attacked the West Indian bowlers and all of a sudden their lines and length became ragged. The locals could not get a wicket but what made the situation worse was the fact that they could not contain the batsmen. Too many easy runs were given away with and pressure was back on the West Indies. Neesham dumped the bowlers four times into the stands before he reached 50.

Williamson, the leading scorer in this series got to his seventh Test ton in 249 minutes, off 173 balls with 15 fours. Celebrations continued soon after, as Neesham registered a half century off 66 balls with three fours and four sixes.

New boy Jason Holder then had him caught at short cover for 51 to bring the West Indies right back into the contest.

This ended a 91-run association for the fifth wicket that came off just 21.1 overs.

Williamson and BJ Watling then took the team safely to lunch without any further casualties. The score at the break was 260 for five - an overall lead of 236 runs, with Wil-

liamson on 121 not out and Watling on 15.

After the interval, runs continued to flow and although not at a rapid rate, the visitors looked solid. Ramdin and his boys kept patient, looking for the breakthrough.

It came with the score at 305 when Watling presented Roach his 100th Test wicket.

The St. Lucy man became the 19th West Indian to reach the milestone and eighth Barbadian. Williamson then brought up his 150 soon after off 251 balls with 21 fours.

Scoreboard WI vs N Zealand N Zealand 1st Inns 293 Windies 1st Inns 317 N Zealand 2nd Inns (o/n 123/3) T Latham c Shillingford b Roach 0 H Rutherford c Ramdin b Roach 19 K Williamson not out 161 R Taylor c Bravo b Holder 6 N McCullum lbw Roach 25 J Neesham c Brathwaite b Holder 51 BJ Watling c Holder b Roach 29 T Southee c & b Taylor 7 M Craig not out 4 Extras b 20, lb 1, w7, nb1 29 Total for 6 wkts 331 Fall of wkts: 1, 56, 68, 135, 226, 305, 327. .

Bowling: J Taylor 16-4-54-1, 16 4 54 1, K Roach 19.119.1 4-55-4, S Benn 26-1-94-0, J Holder 10-226-2, S Shillingford 18-2-81-0. (Trinidad Guardian)

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Narine back for T20 series vs Kiwis TRINIDAD -- T&T’s mystery spinner Sunil Narine has been chosen on the West Indies team for the upcoming twomatch T20 series against New Zealand next weekend in Dominica.

The right arm off-spinner was banned from playing against the same opponents in the current Test series because he failed to make the June 1 deadline to attend a preparatory camp in Barbados.

He now makes a comeback and so too Keiron Pollard who missed the 2014 World T20 tournament in Bangladesh due to injuries. However, injury will keep all rounder Dwayne Bravo off the park, as he is still recovering from a hamstring strain that now threatens his appearance in the early stages of the Caribbean Pre-

mier League (CPL) which gets underway on July 11 in Grenada.

Other T&T players called to the squad are batsman Darren Bravo who was not chosen for the World T20 tournament. The dapper left hander has been in form in the Test series and scored a century in the second Test at the Queen’s Park Oval.

Lendl Simmons who had a fantastic Indian Premier League (IPL) with the Mumbai Indians this year, is also on the team, as well as the Royal Challengers Bangalore leg-spinner Samuel Badree.

Simmons got married on the weekend in Trinidad and will be looking to continue his good form. Rounding off the six T&T men on the squad is Test captain Denesh Ramdin.

A notable omission from the

team is big Jamaican left hander Chris Gayle who has been rested for this series.

Darren Sammy who was recently removed as Test captain will be back from his stint with Glamorgan from the Natwest T20 Blast in England to lead the team.

The matches will be played at Windsor Park, Dominica, on July 5 and 6.

FULL SQUAD Darren Sammy (Captain), Samuel Badree, Christopher Barnwell, Darren Bravo, Sheldon Cottrell, Andre Fletcher, Sunil Narine, Kieron Pollard, Denesh Ramdin, Andre Russell, Krishmar Santokie, Lendl Simmons and Dwayne Smith. (Trinidad Guardian)

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The simplest oven roasted chicken ever! curries i and d grilling. i li il

Chris De La Rosa Caribbean Cooking Oven roasted chicken (baked chicken as it’s sometimes called in the Caribbean) is infamous for being dry and somewhat bland.

However in this recipe I’ll not only show you how simple it is to a make a moist oven roasted chicken, we’ll apply some Caribbean seasonings (herbs) which will definitely excite your taste buds. This recipe is based on the method of seasoning chicken as it’s normally done in the Caribbean for stews,

You’ll Need: 1 4 lb chicken 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 lemon 1 tablespoon Caribbean green seasoning 2 tablespoon olive oil Tip: To add a little kick to things, you can add some finely diced scotch bonnet pepper or a little peppersauce (hot sauce) to the marinade.

If you’ve never spatchcock a chicken before , it’s very simple. Using kitchen scissors (or knife), place the whole bird on it’s breast (we sometimes say chest in the Caribbean) then using the scissors, remove the backbone off the chicken by cutting along each side of the middle main

Then bbone ((see iimage bbelow). l ) Th h tturn over and d gently press down on the breast to fatten the chicken. This method (spatchcock) will enable us to cook the chicken quicker and more evenly. Discard the back bone or save for soups and making stock.

Wash and pat the chicken dry, then in a bowl combine all the ingredients and give it a good mix.

Rub the entire chicken with this lovely Caribbean marinade and set in the fridge to marinate for a couple hours (cover with plastic wrap). Then place in a baking pan with a rack (if you don’t have a rack you can place on top some cut carrots, celery and onion) the idea is to allow heat to circulate around the chicken as it roasts. In my case I like adding about 1 cup of water to my pan as I find that it helps to keep the chicken moist as it roasts in the oven.

Heat your oven to 400 F and roast on the

middle Half iddl rack k ffor about b t 50 5 minutes. i t H lf way lf through roasting, turn your pan so it browns evenly. If you’re using my tip for adding water in the pan, you may need to add some more after about 30 minutes.

Allow the chicken to rest about 6-8 minutes (covered) before slicing through. I like placing the use lemon pieces in the roasting tray as it adds a lovely aroma as the chicken does it’s thing.

Without a doubt this will be one of the simplest roasted chickens you’ve ever made and quite honestly.. the tastiest. The marinade will add a lot of flavor to this chicken and I know your family and friends will be complimenting you on a job well done.

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Chair yoga for the physcially challenged Geeta Maraj Yoga Yoga has existed for centuries and has now become the universal pathway to good health and longevity. There are over 250 varieties of yoga, and as a result, there is accommodation to every health issue or limitation.

Chair yoga, came into existence as there are practitioners who are unable to sit on the floor or lie on the ground for medical reasons.

Equally, chair yoga becomes beneficial to those who want to practice their stretches during the regular routine of the day, especially for those who have sedentary occupations.

Along with the importance of breathing correctly, yoga focuses on the health of the spine to keep the body relaxed and coordination balanced. One of the main exercises in chair yoga is to ensure that the spine is stretched and flexible, as a healthy spine decreases tension and stress of the body. Chair yoga, therefore, becomes an easy way to accomplish a healthier body even when faced with limitations.

The way to stretch the spine is to first of

all sit in a chair which is very upright. Ensure that the knees are bent at a 90° angle and that the feet are firmly on the ground. Stretching the spine to the right - you place your right arm behind chair in alignment with the spine and use your left hand to grab a hold of the right side of the chair, twisting your body as far right as possible. Turn your head as far right to look over your right shoulder.

Hold this position and breathe deep, even breaths.

This is best achieved by counting how long it takes you to inhale and exhale to the same count.

To come out this position, you simply release the hold of the right arm from behind the chair and return to the front facing position. Then, you repeat the same stretch on to the left side, by placing the left arm behind the chair, hold the left side of the chair with the right hand, and turn your head to look over your left shoulder. Keep your breath balanced and even, while holding this position for a few seconds. This left and right twisting of the spine can be repeated several times as is comfortable and necessary.

If you do not have a chair which allows you to sit in a perfectly upright position, you can achieve the same benefit and stretch by simply sitting foward on a chair which is safe and will not come off balanced. This will allow you to be in a full upright positon where the spine is tall and straight. In this case , when twisting the spine, the arm no longer reaches behind chair but the space between your body and the chair, keeping the hand as close to the spine as possible.

Apart from twisting the spine to the right and left, it is important to balance the twist with a forward and backward bend of the spine.

This is achieved by sitting upright in your chair ensuring your feet are firmly on the ground, and your knees are bent at a 90° angle. Place both hands on your knees and tuck your chin in toward your chest, as you roll your spine in a forward curve - hold the forward bend and breathe deep, even breaths. In order to come out of this position,

simply uncurl the spine and return to the upright position.

Backward bend of the spine is achieved by holding onto your knee with your hands from the same seated position, then lean your torso forward, and push your chest forward while spreading your shoulders backward, as you look up to the ceiling - this ensures a backward curve of the spine. Again, hold the position while breathing deep, even breaths. To come out of this position, simply round your shoulders forward and bring your body back to the original upright position.

This forward and backward bending of the spine caters to flexibility of the spine and equally triggers the release of endorphins in the bloodstream, making the individual feel relaxed and happier.

For this reason, this exact stretching of the spine is also beneficial to those suffering from depression and anxiety.

Shoulder drops are also another exercise that can be practiced while sitting in a chair to reduce stress from the body. To do this exercise, simply sit upright in your chair and breathe in through your nostrils while pulling the shoulders up towards the ears - squeezing them as tightly as possible onto the sides of the neck. Hold your breath while squeezing your shoulders to your neck. Then to release, exhale through your mouth with an outburst of breath, while at the same time, dropping your shoulders with a force back to the regular position.

By simply paying attention to the breath and keeping the spine flexible and healthy, many benefits to the body and mind can be accomplished. Flexibility of the spine, in conjunction with the breath, equally allows for a balanced gait. By having a balanced body, one is less inclined to stumble or become off balanced easily when walking or climbing stairs. This, in itself, can be extremely beneficial toward preventing breakages from falls, especially for those with limited mobility.

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

The stunning health effects of magnetic fields on our physiology The world is surrounded by magnetic fields generated by the earth, solar storms, changes in the weather and everyday electrical devices. Recently, scientists have discovered that external magnetic fields can affect the body in both positive and negative ways, and the clinical observations are serious eye openers.

Positive magnetic fields and their effects Examples of positive magnetic fields that one may experience on a day-to-day basis include: • Televisions • Computers • Cell phones • Alarm clocks • Motors • Office equipment • Electrical wiring • Microwave ovens • Electric blankets • Power lines • Radio and cell phone towers • Fluorescent lights • Smart Meters • Wi-Fi The frequency at which a magnetic field is pulsed determines whether or not it is harmful. For example, the frequency of the electrical current used in homes in the United States is 60 cycles per second, or hertz (HZ).

In contrast, normal frequencies of the human brain during waking hours range from 8 to 22 Hz, while in sleep they can drop to as low as 2 Hz. The higher frequencies present in artificial electrical currents may disturb the brain’s natural resonant frequencies and in time lead to cellular fatigue.

The physiological effects of positive magnetic fields include: • Produces acid • Produces oxygen deficiency • Evokes cellular edema • Often exacerbates existing symptoms • Accelerates microorganism replication; speeds up infections • Biologically disorganizing • Increases pain and inflammation • Governs wakefulness and action • Evokes catabolic hormone production • Produces toxic end-products of metabolism • Produces free radicals • Speeds up electrical activity of the brain The power and proximity of positive magnetic fields to your energy field are very important, and sources should be investigated with a Gauss meter to understand their frequency. In addition to that, understanding how to “neutralize” these positive magnetic fields becomes very important.

Positive magnetic fields have been associated with cancer, depression, chromosomal abnormalities, inflammation and learning difficulties.

Negative magnetic fields and their effects Examples of negative magnetic fields that one may experience on a day-to-day basis include: • Earth material (soil, rock, salt) • Bodies of water (ocean, lake, river) • Plants The physiological effects of negative magnetic fields include: • Normalizes pH

• Oxygenates body • Resolves cellular edema • Usually reduces symptoms • Inhibits microorganism replication; slows down infections • Biologically normalizing • Reduces pain and inflammation • Governs rest, relaxation, and sleep • Evokes anabolic hormone production -melatonin and growth hormone • Clears metabolically produced toxins out of the body • Eliminates free radicals • Slows down electrical activity of the brain In order to experience the most benefits of negative magnetic fields, one should put their bare skin in direct contact with grass, soil, sand or bodies of water. Failing that, one should look into available grounding technologies.

Negative magnetic field therapy has been used effectively in the treatment of: • Cancer • Rheumatoid arthritis • Infections and inflammation • Headaches and migraines • Insomnia and other sleep disorders • Circulatory problems • Fractures and pain • Environmental stress Understanding the sources of negative and positive magnetic frequencies and how to avoid and use them effectively is a key component to an overall wellness plan. Identify the worst offenders and avoid them as much as possible, and keep in touch with the earth to discharge them appropriately. (NaturalNews)

Skip the deodorant and eat an orange: Natural ways to combat body odor Most people attempt to cover up their body odor with a variety of products ranging from deodorants and scented body washes to creams and fragrances. However, a majority of these products have been linked to having a negative impact on health as well as the environment. In the case of deodorant, many popular brands contain an aluminum base and paraben and research has shown that absorption through the skin of such substances plays a role in an elevated Alzheimer’s risk and may also lead to a higher risk of breast cancer. (1) As for body washes, several contain microbeads that promise to slough off dead skin, while rejuvenating and brightening skin. Yet, these microbeads are problematic for marine life, so much so that Illinois recently became the first state to pass a ban on microbeads. (2) The size of the beads make them unable to properly be filtered through water treatment filters and, as such, they make their way into the waterways

where marine animals mistake their appearance for fish eggs and eat them. Many other states are following suit with legislation that would ban the distribution and sale of products containing microbeads.

Natural ways to combat body odor Avoiding such substances, while still fighting body odor is possible and the way to do it may be as easy as turning to foods. Several foods contain nutrients that, when eaten, change the way odor is produced by the body and, in turn, keep unpleasant odors at bay.

Even better, these foods are healthy to eat, so people gain the benefit of improving their overall health, while also tackling personal odor.

One key area of focus involves choline, a nutrient that Oregon State University researchers identified as an unpleasant odorproducing culprit. (3) As such, it’s thought that diets low in choline can help reduce body odor. Vegetables are low in this nutri-

ent overall; however, the ones with lowest choline have been identified as raw cabbage, cucumbers, tomatoes, kale and carrots. (3) Fruits with low choline levels include pears, pineapple, watermelon, strawberries and bananas. (3) Furthermore, fresh citrus fruits, such as oranges and lemons, are considered especially effective in fighting body odor.

New York City dermatologist and internist Dr. David Colbert said that “the acids in citrus fruits help flush water through your body.

And because citrus also contains fiber, they move through your system slowly and flush out toxins that contribute to body odors. (4)” Another finding involved a study that compared red meat eaters to non-red meat eaters. Chemical Senses published the study’s conclusion: collected odor samples from the non-red meat eating group were deemed more attractive and pleasant. (NaturalNews)

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Five surprising health benefits of cauliflower It’s a well-known fact that the more colorful a vegetable is, the more healthy it’s likely to be. After all, color indicates the presence of carotenoids, which are the antioxidants that give most vegetables their greatest benefits. Consequently, many of us assume that bland-looking vegetables, such as regular white cauliflower, are lacking in the health department.

Sadly, it is true that cauliflower lacks certain nutrients, such as chlorophyll, that are present in most other vegetables because their leaves shield them from the sun during growth. Despite this drawback, there is still a lot to love about cauliflowers. In fact, when cooked properly (e.g., boiled, steamed or sauteed), cauliflower contains higher concentrations of certain essential nutrients than many other whole foods.

Five health benefits of cauliflower Rich in cancer-fighting phytochemicals: Cauliflower contains large quanti-

ties of sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol (I3C), which are two phytochemicals with proven cancer-fighting properties. Sulfurophane is a sulfur compound which, according to a study published in Carcinogenesis in December 2008, can decrease the rate of chemically-induced mammary tumors in animals. (1) I3C has also been shown to prevent cancer by increasing the body’s production of enzymes that flush carcinogens and toxins out of the body before they can harm cells. I3C also contains anti-tumor agents and is a proven antiinflammatory that could help treat painful conditions, such as arthritis, sprains and period pains.

Boosts kidney and cardiovascular health: A study published in the American Journal of Hypertension in February 2012 discovered that sulforaphane could also normalize kidney function and significantly reduce blood pressure. (2) The researchers attributed this benefit to sulfuraphane’s ability to improve DNA methylation, which is needed to maintain gene expression and cellular function. Given the scope of this benefit, eating more sulforaphane-rich foods, such as cauliflower,

might contain many other health benefits not yet proven by science.

Digestive support: One cup of boiled cauliflower contains 12% of our recommended daily allowance (RDA) of fiber, which sweeps our digestive system of accumulated waste. It is also rich in the natural compound glucoraphanin, which appears to be found exclusively in broccoli and cauliflower. Glucoraphanin is actually the precursor to the aforementioned sulforaphane and contains numerous digestive benefits. In fact, a 2009 study featured in Cancer Prevention Research showed that glucoraphanin-sourced sulforaphane had a protective effect on the stomach lining and is especially effective at guarding us from the destructive bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which can increase our risk of stomach ulcers and cancer. (3) A good source of vitamin C: One cup of boiled cauliflower also contains almost 100% of our RDA of the West’s favorite nutrient: vitamin C. According to the World’s Healthiest Foods website, this amount is more vitamin C per weight than most other fruits and vegetables, including

certain leafy green vegetables. (4) An essential antioxidant, vitamin C, helps protect us from the cell-destroying effects of free radicals, while also helps us to produce collagen and manufacture certain neurotransmitters. Without it, we would literally fall apart.

High in brain-boosting choline: Like broccoli, cauliflower is a fantastic natural source of the B vitamin choline. Choline is a precursor to the important neurotransmitter acetylcholine, and an increased choline intake is regularly linked to improved cognitive function, particularly among fetuses. For example, a 2010 study published in NIH Research Matters showed that the fetuses of pregnant women who suffered from a choline deficiency experienced reduced blood vessel growth in the brain. (5) Another study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that pregnant rats fed choline supplements gave birth to pups that enjoyed lifelong memory enhancements. (6) (NaturalNews)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

When itʟs time to lose weight Monique Bartlett Fitness If you are overweight, you shouldn’t only be worried about your appearance, but your health as well. Being overweight can lead to obesity and has been linked to multiple health complications, including heart attacks, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes and the early onset of death. Your appearance will improve as a side effect of reaping the benefits of good health.

If you are finding that your clothes no longer fit you this should be the first sign that you may need to make some changes.

Of course, it is normal for some individuals to gain weight or to have their weight fluctuate, but you may want to think about joining a weight loss program or developing your own weight loss plan if you find that your clothes no longer fit or are difficult to get into. Small weight gain often leads to more, which could have a negative impact on your health. It is also important to mention the cost of new clothes, which you may not be able to afford.

If you find many simple tasks or activities, like walking up a flight of stairs, playing with your kids or walking to the store difficult, you may want to think about changing some of your current hab-

its in order to lose weight. When you lose weight, even just a little bit of it, you will likely find it easier to do many of the activities that you love or even the tasks that you need to do, like take your kids to the park or walking to work.

Before you decide to lose weight, you are advised to proceed with caution and speak to your family physician first.

They will make sure that you do not start too fast and do too much too soon. There is usually a tendency to use weight loss products on the market, like diet pills or exercise equipment, which do not work.

To save yourself money and to protect your health, consulting with your physician before starting any weight loss program should be the first thing you do on your journey to health.

The effects of Diabetes on Oral Health Dr. Matthew Weekes BSC DDS MTh DMin

Dental Health

There is an increased prevalence of gum disease in diabetes. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to heart disease, stroke and kidney disease, but it can also contribute to severe gum diseases especially among those with poor oral hygiene. People with diabetes are more susceptible to serious gum disease and people with serious gum disease have the potential for elevated blood glu-

cose levels leading to diabetes.

The oral manifestations of diabetes may be gingivitis (early gum disease) and periodontitis (advanced gum disease) which could cause bone loss resulting in loss of teeth. Sores may develop and fungus infections such as thrush. Other symptoms can be dry mouth and cavities extending on the roots of teeth.

stant pain which may cause the individual to seek emergency dental treatment. Diabetic patients should let the dentist know what medications they are taking especially insulin before any treatment is undertaken. It is also important for the dentist to know if there have been any diabetic episodes in the past due to low blood sugar resulting in fainting.

Dental Care Dental care is particularly important for people with diabetes because of the high risk of oral health problems.

Since gingivitis and periodontitis are infections of bacterial origin, uncontrolled diabetics may experience a higher frequency and severity of gum disease.

There may be localized to generalized mouth pain. It may be throbbing or con-

Prevention Control blood glucose levels either by diet or by taking prescriptions as prescribed.

Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing thoroughly. Avoid smoking.

Remove dentures at night and clean them daily.

Regular dental checkups and cleaning are very important order to avoid serious oral problems.

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

First time homebuyers Stephen Mohammed Finance When looking to purchase your first home, financial concerns are at the top of your list and some are not prepared for the emotional challenges that accompany you along this journey. The best way to approach this process is to obtain the services of a Realtor and a Mortgage Agent. Both agents can guide you every step of the way and they are compensated at the closing of the deal. The first step is to qualify for a mortgage and work out a budget including utilities and property taxes so that you are not overextending yourself financially.

Once your Realtor has been advised by you of the mortgage loan that you have been approved for, he or she will be able to find you a suitable home that matches your criteria and requirements within that budget.

The Realtors main focus should be to guide you through this emotional rollercoaster with utmost precision and care while finding you your dream home. Every home has great features and it’s your Realtor’s role to show you and discuss the pros and cons of every home, providing you with the necessary information for you to make an informed decision.

A Mortgage Agent can assist you with the qualifying requirements and inform you of the benefits available to you. First time homebuyers may be eligible for a refund of all or part of the Land Transfer Tax up to a maximum of two thousand dollars.

The refund applies to all homes, new con-

struction and resale homes for any signed agreement of Purchase and Sale after December 13, 2007. Prior to that date the refund applied to only new constructed homes.

The application for the refund must be made within eighteen months of transfer of title.

For more information on Land Transfer Tax Refund, visit http://www.fin.gov.on.ca/en/ refund/newhome/index.html Another benefit you may be eligible for is the first time Home Buyers Plan (HBP). First you have to be considered a first time home buyer. As simple as that sounds, there are criteria that have to be met. You may withdraw up to a maximum of twenty five thousand dollars from your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) per applicant. Your RRSP contributions must remain in the RRSP for at least 90 days before you can withdraw them under the HBP and must be your personal RRSP contribution. Group RRSP’s contributions are not eligible to be used for purchasing a home under this program. Under the program you will have to repay the loan in equal payments to your RRSP over a fifteen year period. Any payment less than the required amount must be included as income for that year. You may also repay the amount in full at any time.

Your first repayment begins the second year following the year the withdrawal was made.

You can make repayment contributions to your RRSP the year the repayment is due up to the first sixty days the following year. Visit http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/ndvdls/tpcs/ rrsp-reer/hbp-rap/menu-eng.html for more information on Home Buyers Plan.

You may also be eligible for first time Home Buyers Tax Credit (HBTC). The HBTC is a non-refundable tax credit, based on an amount of five thousand dollars. This credit impacts a qualifying home purchased to close since January 27, 2009. Visit http:// www.cra-arc.gc.ca/gncy/bdgt/2009/fqhbtceng.html for more information on the Home Buyers Tax Credit.

Minister Alexander announces citizenship judge appointment in Kitchener OTTAWA -- Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander announced the appointment today of Larry Gravill of New Hamburg, Ontario, as parttime citizenship judge for Kitchener effective June 13, 2014.

Judge Gravill has more than 37 years of dedicated police service to the community. He worked as a Senior Officer of the Waterloo Regional Police Service for a total of 23 years in progressively responsible positions, from Staff Inspector, Deputy Chief of Administration to Chief of Police. He has a strong focus on community building and leadership. He is a member of the FBI National Academy Associates and was appointed to the Board of the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police Research Foundation in 2012.

Judge Gravill holds a Bachelor of Arts from Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo and three post-secondary diplomas in police studies from the Ontario Police Col-

lege and University of Western Ontario. He also studied at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Judge Gravill received an LLD – Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of Waterloo in 2009.

Citizenship judges are responsible for making decisions with regard to 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. 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, and leadership. (CIC)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Supreme court of Canada to hear 407ETRʼs appeal Tammy Flores 407ETR Matters May 8th, 2014 the Supreme Court of Canada agreed to hear 407 ETR’s appeal. It’s expected that the court will hear the case 9-12 months from now and then take a further 6 months to decide. To keep up to date with the progress of the case please go to Scarfone Hawkins’ website http://www.classactionlaw.ca/content/ claims/407%20ETR/407%20ETR.htm When I decided to stick with this issue in 2010, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. Here we are 4 years later at the country’s highest court and somehow this company is able to get a sympathetic ear for breaking the law, while thousands of vulnerable, marginalized people are being exploited, relentlessly by this corporation.

On a positive note, the intervener’s are permitted to put in a motion to intervene on the Appeal. The Supreme Court declined their intervention on the Leave, but made allowances for them to motion to intervene on the Appeal. We are hopeful that the Supreme Court will allow them intervener status despite

the fact that 407 ETR doesn’t want it. 407 ETR wants to make this about one case. The case they had with Matthew Moore whereby the company gave him a handsome settlement to buy his silence.

Despite the outcome next year, I want to take the opportunity to thank the Superintendent of Bankruptcy and Intervener’s for fighting valiantly to make it about everyone this company affects. The Intervener’s have not been paid any money for their work. We are thankful they are fighting for us. We can’t do this without them. They deserve our utmost respect. They are representing the voices of thousands before the courts and I hope the Supreme Court of Canada hears all those voices.

407 ETR was able to be granted a Stay because they complained that they will be harmed if they were made to fix their billing system. You know, the billing system that has caused all the problems to begin with?

They inflicted self-harm onto themselves, but somehow they say it’s not their fault. They also know their case is weak, but yet, they are purposely frustrating the Bankruptcy Insolvency Act and the people that are supposed to be protected by it. What about the thousands of lives this company has affected? Do they matter?

This company has been willfully and knowingly breaking the law for many, many years.

The door has been open for them to make the necessary changes to their billing system, but they choose to arrogantly refuse claiming that they don’t have to because they are somehow special. They are not a regulatory body and

failing to pay your toll is not a Provincial Offence. We don’t support people that willfully evade tolls. If you drive on the highway you should pay your toll, the problem is that this company doesn’t just charge people tolls. But that’s for another case and another time.

407 ETR wants the same status as a Provincial Regulatory Body. Our regulatory bodies follow the rules and make changes as needed. This company doesn’t follow the rules, has refused to make the necessary changes and doesn’t deserve anymore power. They haven’t been responsible with what has been given to them. If they are given the same status as a Provincial Regulatory Body nothing will bring them into balance. I maintain that 407 ETR’s argument is disrespectful to the people in this Province http://407etr-abuseofpower.com/ index.php/407-etrs-argument-to-supremecourt-is-disrespectful/ Please refer to my article that explains how the company is not a regulatory body http://407etr-abuseofpower. com/index.php/407-etr-fees-interest-are-notfines%e2%80%8f/ In closing, this multimillion dollar corporation can absorb any changes and restitution they have to pay for their mistakes. The people that have been affected by this company’s behavior make at most between $30,000 – $50,000/year. These people have been marginalized by their bankruptcy and are vulnerable.

They have been burdened with a disproportionate share of this company’s mistakes and missteps. It is time for this company to make restitution.

How to select travel Insurance for family holidays Olivia Boodram Travel It’s summertime, finally and the time has arrived to think about getting away with the family, or gathering the family together at your home. Whichever way you choose to spend these glorious days of sun, water, outdoors and fun don’t forget to keep the family safe and happy.

When you are getting ready for your vacation plans, choice can be a strange curse.

Too little and you can get frustrated, too much and you may face the pressure of needing to discriminate between similar options. Preparation for a trip can be stressful enough that you almost need a second vacation to recover from it all. The choice of travel insurance for family holidays can sometimes be just as hard to wade through. Here are some tips that may help you.

Consider the Breadth of Coverage

One of the first things to think about when considering travel insurance for family trips is the extent of your coverage. Does it go beyond the basics of accidents and loss/theft?

What additional extras does it provide – such as risk sports coverage or golfing gear – and which ones do you really need? The value in shopping around is that many quality providers are backed by larger insurers and give you competitive rates with benefits such as twentyfour hour emergency contact, excess waivers and free coverage for children. Since you are considering your wallet as well as the safety of your loved ones and their belongings, it is worth spending time to measure the breadth of coverage that you will need.

Consider the Type of Trip Another issue to ponder is the duration of your trip. Are you planning a quick stint across the border, or a long awaited trip to any of the sunny tropical islands? Depending on the frequency of your travel over the year and the length of each trip, you will have different needs. The better providers will tailor their plans to suit your options so you won’t be tied to a policy that you don’t need.

Consider the Reliability of a Quote One of the great steps forward by insurers has

been the legitimacy and speed of the online quote. They recognise that purchasing travel insurance for family trips should be as easy as possible. However you do need to spend time to consider whether the provider that gives you a fast quote is also reliable. There is little point in finding out the catches in the small print once you’ve already lost your bags while on vacation or sprained your ankle on a boat off while sailing in the deep blue Caribbean Sea. Consider How Not to Need It The most important reason that you need to purchase travel insurance for family trips lies in not needing it at all. If you have the best coverage and never need to call upon it then you can consider that one aspect of your trip that went smoothly. But you’ll never regret putting the time and money into choosing the right policy, if the moment ever came that you actually did have to use it.

But remember this – The unforeseen can happen, so getting the correct policy will insure you that Peace of Mind to enjoy your holiday.

Have a Safe, Fun and well Protected Summer Season!

Wednesday, July 2, 2014 27

FOR SALE FOR SALE

FOR SALE FOR SALE

FORWANTED SALE HELP

FOR SALE WANTED KEYBOARD PLAYER: Keyboard player needed for church at Warden and St. Clair.

Call 416-938-3753 Message 416-686-5502

FREEHOLD LAND: Harriman Park Point Fortin Trinidad. 27 Main Road - 6450 square feet. 18 Hillcrest Road - 9935 square feet. Serious bids to lamsaleslam@gmail. com or call 1-868-347-6191

MATURE LADY: Mature lady, non smoker and drinker with drivers license seeks work in exchange for accommodation. Call 647-267-6949

RESTAURANT FOR SALE: Well established West Indian restaurant. Over 1800sq ft. Comes with all equipement. For info call 416-419-7858 for more details.

FOR SALE WORSHIP

LAND IN TOBAGO: On Riseland Road, 10,500 square feet near the Airport, Royal Bank Plaza, Store Bay Beach and Mount Irvine Golf Course. Contact 647-467-3171 METAL SHELVES: 3 metal shelve cases for cargo van. 1 in excellent condition, 2 in good condition. $500 for all 3. 647-3094606 HOUSE FOR SALE: 3 Bedroom house in Willowdeen St Catherin off Old Harbor Road, fully grilled, move in condition, fruit trees. Call 416-749-0148

WAITRESS WANTED: Waitress/Bartender needed for Drupaties Restaurant and Bar on Ebenezer in Brampton. 416-419-7858

FOR RENT SALE FOR

FOR SALE SERVICES

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

FORWANTED SALE HELP WAITRESS/BARTENDER: Part time position available. Must be able to provide excellent customer service and have the ability to multi-task. Competitive wage .

Island Style Restaurant and Bar - Angela 416.722.6528 or 905.794.5861

FOR SALE OPPORTUNITIES COOK NEEDED: Looking for Chineese and West Indian Cook for busy restaurant.

Preferably with some experience or willing to train. Full time hours available. Call 647895-6905

RECRUITING: Now recruiting Jamaicans & Jamaican-Canadian families from the GTA for research study. Contact Nicola 416-979-5000 Ext. 7646 (Leave Message)

FOR SALE PERSONALS RELATIONSHIP WANTED: West Indian gentleman, 50+ lonely in house, very caring and kind hearted, who would like a female companion 30+ who is friendly, sincere and serious for a true relationship. Please call 416-565-3847

30 Wednesday, July 2, 2014

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Your Horoscope - July 2nd 2014 ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

Your roles, needs, and wants; home, family, and finances—everything is changing. Yes, you’ve been charting the course for some time. Yes, there is more time to put in and more to sort out. Still, you’ll have to admit that the feel and the living it out are a lot different now. See it as a mileage checkpoint.

Tuesday onward, get moving on it.

This past week has likely been an icebreaker one, but uncertainty can linger, especially through Sunday. Reserve labelling it, deciding it, or acting on it until you gain more information and clarity. Friday through Monday, roll with it. Tuesday through Thursday, you should find yourself gaining better footing. These are good days to top it up, clean it up, or catch up with others.

Venus, a recent visitor to Gemini, now puts you back in the game in some added way, but until Sunday when she surpasses Neptune, you may still be in a fog, at a loss, or missing the support or juju. The week ahead can be a mixed bag, but by week’s end, you should feel you’re finally getting somewhere good.

Friday’s new moon in Cancer has a lot going for it. Know it or not, so do you. You can’t play it safe, so don’t even try. Instead, challenge yourself to push past the fear or insecurity. Pump your creativity and your can-do for all they’re worth. The stars build pressure through to the next full moon. It’s a clue—rise up, meet it head-on.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

Mars/Uranus has thrust you into a faster forward, but there are still more planetary hoops to jump through during this first couple of weeks of July. Take your lead from the here and now, and you’ll build better odds for tomorrow’s rewards and results. Through mid July, Venus and Mercury in Gemini boost pleasure, play, romance, profit margins, and earning potentials.

Although a reality overhaul has been in the works for a while, you are likely to say that it’s become more obvious to you in the past few days and weeks. Yes, life has thrust you over that previously elusive line in the sand.

Look to the end of Mercury retrograde and Venus to keep the good trend going.

Mars/Uranus has flicked a major switch. The next two weeks will play it out. On Friday, emotions drive the show, but you’ll get it under control. Saturday/Sunday, stay openended and open-minded; save the important stuff for another day. Mercury and Venus in Gemini improve the communication flow.

Your social life, love life, and financial prospects gain a boost now too.

It’s been an especially full-to-the-brim week. Expect the floodgate to stay open, but to enjoy more fluid movement. Friday’s new moon in Cancer shortens the distance to tomorrow or to that someone special. A special event or a quiet moment—no matter how it’s packaged or what’s in the background, a reward or fulfillment weekend lies ahead.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

You’ll make better strides going forward from here. Friday’s new moon sets the tone for a well-deserved soak-it-up or cozy-up-for-love weekend. Along with Venus in Gemini and the end of Mercury retrograde, the stars set a more favourable backdrop for same-page accord, money matters, projects, talks, and plans. Still, you can’t switch to autopilot just yet. Stay on top of it.

Mars/Uranus has just hit full steam ahead.

Although there’s still another week to go before all the big rocks are out of the way, you’ll make better headway now, especially regarding work, health, diet, plans, budgets, and paperwork. Venus in Gemini improves relationship harmony on and off the job. On Sunday, indulge, ease up, and spread the love around.

You have more to sort out, but save it for next week, when Mercury and Venus will be in better shape. A weekend of no pressure is ideal. Unwind, relax, and don’t force what isn’t coming naturally. On Sunday, enjoy but don’t jump too far ahead of yourself or your wallet.

Take the week ahead one step at a time.

Over the hump and on your way; a new life chapter spreads its wings. Friday’s new moon in Cancer siphons great momentum from Neptune, your ruler. Soak it in, soak it up. The now is infused with more than the usual potential. Although today’s reality dictates things to a large extent, it’s your opportunity springboard. Believe, choose, do.

July 22 - August 22

November 22 - December 21

April 19 - May 20

August 22 - September 22

December 21 - January 19

May 20 - June 21

September 22 - October 23

January 19 - February 18

Answers available on www.TorontoCaribbean.com

March 20 - April 19

Across 2) Inflatables for your arms [WATERWINGS] 4) Salty swimming area [OCEAN] 6) Footwear for better kicks [FLIPPERS] 7) Arms always underwater [BREASTSTROKE] 9) Shallow pool for kids [WADING] 10) Using both arms at same time [BUTTERFLY] 11) Pool water additive [CHLORINE] 13) Help you see underwater [GOGGLES] 14) Dries you off [TOWEL] 16) Only in the deep end [DIVING]

Down 1) Upside-down swimming [BACKSTROKE] 2) Slip ’n slide [WATERSLIDE] 3) Boys’ swim apparel [TRUNKS] 5) Place to swim indoors [POOL] 6) Traditional stroke [FREESTYLE] 8) Looks out for safety [LIFEGUARD] 12) Long foam water toy [NOODLE] 15) Olympic pool length in metres [FIFTY]

June 21 - July 22

October 23 - November 22

February 18 - March 19

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Missed Insurance payments can be costly!

Sherene Cole

CIP, CRM, CAIB, LLQP

Insurance Matters

When their annual family life insurance premium came due recently, the Martins just did not have the funds available. The insurance premium statement and reminder notice was filed in their “to be paid” folder, untouched and unpaid for several weeks until they received the final “lapsed” notice.

When their financial situation did improve the Martins decided they needed the protection of their life insurance policy back, but they soon found out that this was no easy matter. New applications, new medicals (and a hope that their

good health continued to qualify) were required and now at much higher premiums reflecting their current ages.

In another scenario, the Smiths leave the country on an extended vacation, and while away, both their home and automobile policies are cancelled for non-payment due to insufficient funds. Imagine the financial loss had they suffered a fire or water damage claim during their absence or their car was stolen from the driveway?

Not only must they now find new insurance, but they are unlikely to get the same rates now with a ‘rateable’ non-payment cancellation on their record. . In addition, there’s a good chance that they will not qualify for a monthly payment plan for the next year and must pay in full for the new policy.

As you can see, allowing your policy to ‘lapse’ at renewal or be cancelled for non-payment at any time can have serious consequences.

By taking the necessary precautions to ensure you remain on top of your premiums, you can avoid both the stress and potential disaster that comes from being uninsured.

Poerfully keeping your dreams alive and 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?

Wednesday, July 2, 2014 31

32 Wednesday, July 2, 2014

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Five key points on how to effectively lead a team Colleen Lindberg Business Development I truly believe that you can only lead a team after you’ve figured out how to lead yourself. Wouldn’t you agree? Leadership is taken, learned, acquired and nurtured.

This means the person that is driven to be a leader, high performer or even just to get the job done, has attributes that makes them a leader. However does that mean they can lead a team?

Here are some tips on how to effectively lead your team and continue to grow the company in a more harmonious way.

1) Learn the talents and skills of the people on your team and get them doing the right things As a leader our job is to figure out the talents of the people on our team and make sure they play a role in the company that suits

their talents. This will allow everyone to be productive in their roles along with having a higher sense of contribution and it will make them feel that they belong, allowing their leadership talents to shine. Allowing people to grow is an asset any company can have if they take the time to learn it, do it and then grow it.

2) Bring positivity into the workplace Leaders have the quality of motivation.

Whether it is contagious from their work ethics or it could possibly be that they are visionaries and people want to follow them.

One characteristic of a great leader is their positive, upbeat attitude. Bringing a positive attitude into the team is a crucial piece in effectively leading a team. It allows people to have something to grab onto when the going gets tough, which we all know it will.

Having positive quotes around, listening to music throughout the day, smiling, telling jokes, having positive talk breaks. Whatever it is, a positive attitude can go a long way, allowing others to feel great about themselves, so spread the joy!

3) Recognizing the efforts of the team As I mentioned in the above paragraph we all want to feel like we are a part of some-

thing and being acknowledged for small or large accomplishments increases awareness, profits, productivity etc. Everyone brings their dynamic role to the table and making sure they feel like they are a part of that is important. It goes a long way in business and it’s such a small thing. One main complaint I hear in some businesses is that people aren’t feeling valued or heard. This step will allow those people to be just that recognized. This could be in the form of a weekly internal newsletter , acknowledging someone from the team for making xyz steps happen, an email blast on Monday morning, or a team meeting or team events, Making time for this is important. It could even be as simple as a thank you in passing, making someone aware that you know. Sometimes that’s all we need.

4) Lead by example Yes I get that some of the perks of being in charge and the leader is that you get to have more “freedom” with your time, since you have people to delegate to. However your attitude, dedication, motivation, work ethic will set the tone for your team. If they see you slacking, they might treat you like a friend instead of a boss. If they see you sitting around “wasting time” they might do

the same thinking it’s ok. Have you heard the saying “Do what I do, not what I say”.

This is the perfect explanation to what leadership represents. We are the example and what we do will only elevate or set the standards to what is happening with the team. So if you are looking for dedication… get dedicated. If you are looking for creativity… get creative. If you are looking to get in shape… do it. Make sense?

5) Be open and honest Own up to your mistakes, outline your boundaries and expectations and always be there for them. Let them know that you are there to answer their questions, bounce ideas off of. You should always be there for them to talk to but also realize that sometimes you have step into the role and say it like it is. People will appreciate the message more when it comes from a place of truth and openness. . When hiring employees make sure they know the team values.

So in closing, no matter what industry you are in, what role you play, you will always have the ability to be a leader, and it might just be in your own life. Own it. Lead it and be it. That’s all there is to it. “

ONE WORLD FESTIVAL

Fun For The Family

VENDOR SPO TS AVAILABLE

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MC Allan Jones

416-787-7615 416-901-9388 416-315-7433 416-781-6111 416-635-6555 416-745-4189 416-744-2913

ADVV

Markham Fair Grounds,

Also featuring TM JAMBANA IDOL Talent Search Competition & Anti-Bullying Presentation

MC Natty B

MC Luther Brown MC Dee Jay Cool DJ Grandmaster DJ Ron Nelson MC Delroy G M CHIN 100.7 FM G98.7 FM Rosa 100.3 SOUND FM CHRY 105.5 FM

Limbo Dance

Turntable Jamaica House Jamaica House

TAKEE A CHILDRREN CHAAIR Under 7 FREE

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$

35

VIP TICKETS S Incclu udes seat, meal,, dri drink

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