VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 11 • WEDNESDAY, JULY 26TH 2017
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CARNIVAL RUN
KRISTINA RAMCHARRAN/TORONTO CARIBBEAN The sounds of Soca music emanating as 7:00 am at Toronto’s Inukshuk Park from Lakeshore Boulevard is quite un- on Lakeshore Boulevard. Runners had a usual for any Saturday morning unless it’s chance to register into one of three runs: the morning of Toronto Caribbean Carni- the 5k run, the 10k run, and the children’s val. But on an overcast and seemingly or- 1k run. dinary Saturday morning, there was lots of running and dancing down the road to The morning began at 7:00 am with a bagsee. This was an entirely different kind of gage check for the runners and the chance Toronto Carnival. for last minute registration. It then continued with an opening ceremony at 7:45 The Annual Toronto Carnival Run had am, where all the runners were greeted yet another successful year as it greeted and acknowledged, and shortly followed marathoners into its second run. The by a pre warm-up to bring the carnival second annual run, which took place on spirit. July 22nd, gathered hundreds in the early morning, as they prepared to run in one of At 8:00 am the first set of runners takthree races. ing part in the 10k race bolted down the road, as they were cheered on by many Marathoners were up and ready as early spectators. Runners were able to catch
a beautiful glimpse of the water, as they ran along the shores of Lake Ontario. Up next at 8:15 am, runners taking part in the 5k run made their way down the road, as they jogged, ran or walked to the beat of the Soca music. The children’s 1k race took off at 8:25 am, as the excited children hopped down the road with their parents and guardians by their sides. As spectators and supporters patiently awaited the arrival of the runners, they enjoyed a selection of the best Soca music provided by popular Toronto DJ Dr. Jay, also known as the “Soca Prince”. Continued On Page 9
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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, July 26, 2017
Supermodel Nini Amerlise Catwalks Her Way to the Top
Written by Alyssa Mahadeo Toronto Caribbean News
Everyone is born to shine; on our life’s journey, we reserve the right to discover who we truly are, surpass our given station, and show the world exactly what we’re made of. Hardworking, self-motivated, and brimming with talent, Nini Amerlise is a force to be reckoned with. A woman born of mixed Afro, Jamaican, Cuban and Chinese heritage Nini is a professional fashion model with an affinity for the arts and a passion for her craft. Born and raised here in Toronto, Nini and her four siblings were raised by a single mom and her grandparents after her father passed away when she was thirteen. Her creativity was evident at a young age as her interests included painting and singing. As a young girl, she always enjoyed being photographed and dressing up in her mother’s clothes. When she started school, she was shy and introverted, unsure of how to interact with other children her age. She had spent much of her youth surrounded by adults and her family. She was bullied for looking different with her melanin rich skin tones and naturally textured hair. In high school going through puberty, she suffered from acne and was name called by her peers. These experiences affected her negatively as her confidence and self-worth were extremely diminished. At the time, she didn’t fully understand her purpose or self-worth and her mental health suffered because of it. “It was difficult for me to even
communicate with my parents, I didn’t want my mom to come to school, I didn’t want it to escalate to that level.” Nini shares. “There were times I would question why God created me, and why people would tease me so much.” She was abused and bullied into her late teens, but coming out on the other side she was able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. “I ultimately realized that I had to go through all of these things. Going through those experiences I realized that I could use it as fuel to keep pushing and inspire other children that they too could overcome those momentary challenges and conquer those conflicts.” While perusing the internet one day she stumbled upon a casting call for the face of African Fashion week and decided to apply. Nini felt that it was a great platform and avenue to put herself out there, and for her African heritage to be spotlighted and showcased. While she didn’t place, it ignited the interest to pursue modeling, and possibly kick start her career in the arts revisiting her vocal talents as well. “I fell into modeling by accident, I attended Seneca at York to study graphic design, and always thought that taking that path would pave the way for opportunities to start my own business.” Nini began modeling in 2014 and she recognized the potential within herself to take this new-found talent a step further. Since beginning her career she has worked
with many reputable platforms including New York fashion week, Toronto fashion week, African fashion week Toronto, Global TV fashion segment for Ocean Avenue, CBC’s The Dragons Den, Kaela Kay’s editorial campaign featured in British Vogue and The Golden Button Fashion series, currently aired on Afroglobal TV. She was awarded Top Model at the Miss International City Pageant in 2015 and recently awarded Rising Star Canadian model of the year 2016. In 2017 Nini competed and won Supermodel Canada. She has been published in forty magazines and walked in approximately sixty fashions shows. “It’s a humbling experience to be able to inspire the next generation and although modeling is fun, it definitely doesn’t come easy.” Apart from being a dedicated hard worker, Nini is constantly learning new tips and skills required to mold her into a world class supermodel. With God on her side, she believes she is taking the right steps for her sacrifices as a model to pay off. “A piece of advice I can share with aspiring models or entrepreneurs is If you strongly believe that you found a field or career that suits you, I would advise you to remain task focused and passionate about what you do. Each day will come with its own challenges, but as long as you remember your purpose and why you began in the first place, you will do excellent!“
Please call Joshua David at ext. 201
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Wednesday, July 26, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
local news
Peel Special Olympics
Jelani Grant
jelani@carib101.com
TC Reporter For the first time, the Peel Region Police hosted the Special Olympics Ontario Provincial Summer Games. From opening to closing ceremonies, the audience and athletes were thrilled to come together to compete in five different fields of sport but also to celebrate each other. Nearly 800 athletes from across Ontario competed in the fields of athletics, bocce, golf, soccer, and softball. Athletes were divided into Central Ontario, Eastern Ontario, Greater Toronto Area, North Ontario, South Central Ontario, and South Western Ontario. The games ran from July 13-15 throughout the afternoon all across the Peel area. All of the athletic events were held inside the Terry Fox Stadium, while bocce players contested at Century Gardens. The soccer games were played at Huron Park while Dunton Athletic Fields hosted the softball games, and the golf matches were played at Caledon Country Club. Various events saw teams and players
from the Greater Toronto Area take gold. The softball events saw the Brampton Panthers take gold in their division and during the bocce games, Lisa Torti, from Vaughn, represented her district coming first in her division. The soccer teams were divided into three divisions; red, white, green and blue. The local Brampton Panthers won gold dominating their red division with 11 goals. The St. Catherine’s Saints scored 9 goals in total, awarding them gold in the white division. The blue division was led by the Mississauga Magic, who scored 9 goals, and the green division was won by the Peterborough Vipers who scored the most, with 12 goals. For golf, players were split into 10 divisions, 9 male, and 1 female. Tess Trojan represented the South Central Ontario district, winning her women’s division with a score of 105. The GTA saw two of their own rank first in their respective divisions; Michael James finished with a score of 122 while Jason Scorcia ranked first in his division with a score of 131. The athletic events ran every day starting with the 3,000m run and the 200m preliminaries for track. Shot put preliminaries, standing long jump preliminaries and the mini-javelin preliminaries were the field events that started this year’s Special Olympics. On the second day, GTA local Catherine Partlow took 1st place in the 400m run and Timothy Francis from Greater Durham came in first in his shot put event. Alex Keeting led his division in the 1,500m run and in the mini javelin competition, Newmarket local Amy Jaeger came
first in her division. Some of the more recognizable attendees included hockey legend and two-time Olympian Geraldine Heaney, CBC hockey commentator Don Cherry, and Toronto Argonauts Vice-Chair and retired Argonaut Pinball Clemens. Heaney’s presence to the stage immediately caused an eruption inside the 5,000-seat Powerade Centre during the closing ceremony. She shared her sister’s consistent dedication to the Special Olympics and how she continues to support the games following her sister’s passing. “She was a police officer for 20 years…she introduced me to the Special Olympics about 15 years ago and I always heard that once you’ve been introduced to the Special Olympics, you’re here for life,” she said. She commended the Peel Police for their successful run of the games and mentioned that her sister would surely be proud of what they have achieved. Cherry said despite attending a number of Special Olympics before, this year had become his favorite because the games were hosted in Mississauga, his neighborhood, but more importantly, he is a big supporter of this year’s hosts, the Peel Region Police. “Every time the police ask me to do something, I’m there, where would we be without them. They put their life on the line,” he said. Founded in 1979, the Special Olympics Ontario provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children, youth, and adults with intellectual disabilities. Toronto researcher and professor,
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Dr. Frank Hayden, began testing of children with intellectual disabilities during the 1960s, revealing that they were only half as physically fit as their non-disabled peers. It was assumed that their low fitness levels were a direct result of their disabilities but Dr. Hayden challenged this assumption. Working with a controlled group of children on an intense fitness program, he proved that intellectually disabled people could become physically fit and acquire the physical skills needed to participate in sports just like anyone else. His research proved that low levels of fitness and lack of motor skills development in people with intellectual disabilities were a result of nothing more than an inactive life style. Inspired by his discoveries, Dr. Hayden began searching for ways to develop a national sports program for intellectually disabled people. His studies caught the attention of Eunice Kennedy Shriver and the Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. Foundation in Washington, D.C., and would later lead to the founding of the Special Olympics. The Ontario Special Olympics strive to promote respect, acceptance, and inclusion, amongst the community of the intellectually disabled, mostly through physical activities. One primary method of encouraging respect and inclusion is the running of their athlete leadership program. Athletes are taught various leadership tools such as speaking persuasively, analyzing financial reports, speaking with media, prepping for fundraising events, discussing their opinion of policies and learning to mentor other athletes.
Challenging the Criminal Justice System
By Maurice Mattis, Senior Counsel Mattis Law Professional Corporation - www.mattislaw.ca While serving as Deputy Superintendent of JCF (Jamaican Constabulary Force) for 22 years and then working as a Liaison Officer with the Toronto Police for two years – later as Assistant Crown Attorney working at the North York Crown Attorney’s Office, I have experience the impact of the criminal justice system on youths and
adults – many of whom were unaware this to happen’. Well, if a person is of their rights and sometimes unable presumed ‘innocent until proven guilty’ it is unfair to hold them for this to obtain good legal representation. length of time without the opportunity to receive bail. The regular bail proMy decision to become a Criminal Defence Attorney was to do my part cess for other charges gives the prosecutor 3 days, however a bail hearing to carefully monitor and challenge for murder does not specify a time systemic bias in the justice system frame just , “ reasonable time. “ while providing competent and affordable representation to clients Challenging this status quo - we when they need it. brought a rarely used application Here’s an one example of how Mattis called Habeus Corpus – this applicaLaw has challenged systemic bias on tion allows for a speedier bail hearing. In the application, we cited the exambehalf of a client: ple of the policeman who shot and killed Sammy Yatim in Toronto and A few years ago, while at Superior Court intending to set bail hearing for received his bail hearing within 48 a client charged ‘as an accessory after hours under this same protocol. There the fact’ for murder, we were given a are no special provisions for police date 6 weeks in the future. When we officers in the law. inquired why the date was so far in the future, we were told simply ‘there The results? The presiding Judge oris a protocol in place that allows for dered a bail hearing within 3 days. He
also informed the court that the protocol that was referred to by one prosecutor as ‘gospel’, has been rescinded. The practice changed immediately – now, if a bail application is made this week a hearing is scheduled by the Friday of the following week. At Mattis Law we are always to prepared to go the distance for our clients. We’ve gained the reputation of not being afraid to challenge the law and the legal status quo. Getting the best outcome for our clients is our goal. Do you have a case you would like to discuss? Call me (647-348-6588) or email (maurice@mattislaw.ca) – your first consultation is free. Legal Disclaimer: Past results are not necessarily indicative of future results.
Toronto: 150 Consumers Road Suite 307 North York, ON M2J 1P9 Brampton: 7700 Hurontario Street Suite 404A, Brampton, ON L6Y 4M3
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Wednesday, July 26, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
The Impactful Bishop Ashelly Smith
ashelly@carib101.com
TC Reporter
Loving. Faithful. Hopeful. That’s who he is Bishop James Robinson. He is a servant of God with a Doctorate in Philosophy and Behavioral science and Biblical Psychology. He was born in the rural area of Jamaica but migrated to Canada in 1987. He lives his life in a balance way believing in the virtue and value of someone or something is more important than the quality. In other words, he strongly believes in the usefulness and worth of an individual or thing rather than their outward appearance. With this in mind, Bishop Robinson has been determined to make a greater impact on his community since 2004 when he started his own ministry. He founded Faith Open Door Ministries located in the GTA. Some of the good deeds that he has done since his inception in ministry are: helping immigrants with immigration matters, being an advocate for individuals with criminal issues and offering various charitable and outreach programs. In 2005, the Etobicoke- York area was a community that was filled with a lot of violence. It was said that most of the violence were from the individuals of West Indian background. However, Bishop Robinson could not stand the act of violence knowing that he can help to alleviate the discontent within the community. So he worked with the former Members of Parliament and city counsellor of that vicinity such as Rob Ford and Susan Hall to restore peace and unity. The great comedian Michael Jr. says that God uses people’s misfortunes in preparation for what God wants them to do in the future. During people’s hardship, they are practising to do the work God has planned out for them. To explain this profound saying, Bishop Robinson had a speech disorder. It was
very bad that he was called a “dummy” throughout his school years. It was seen as a “handicapped” and as a result he was removed from his middle school. The school he attended suggested that he needed special schooling as it was difficult to comprehend his language. Unfortunately, his parents could not afford to send him to the recommended school to assist with his speech impediment. As a result, he did not go to school and had no other choice but to stand by his mom side as his dad died when he was nine years old. He had interest in reading and whenever he had the chance to read, the bible was first book of interest. He also started to read the Jamaican newspaper called The Star to educate him in reading comprehension. One fine day, he got an opportunity to return to school; he was the star of his classes. Today, he is the Head of his Church, a Clinical Christian Therapist, A Drug and Alcohol Addiction Counsellor and a Certified Psychotherapist. All of these professions requires high communication skills both verbally and written. With attention to the Michael Jr.’s statement, Bishop was practising throughout his childhood to become an influential and a remarkable being. His speech was put on hold for the greater plan that God has set out for him. Maybe if he haven’t had that speech disorder perhaps he wouldn’t be where he is today because of his commanding speaking style. The environment may have not been the appropriate one for him to shine communicatively. Bishop is a man of God who demonstrates this profound question: What can I give to others? In 2015, he ran for Member of Parliament in York South-Weston region for the political Conservative Party. By running for a political position he will have more authority to re-enact certain principles. Bishop Robinson will run again in the 2019 elections. His next big plan is to open an accredited Bible College where students can earn diplomas in Biblical studies and a Bachelor of Theology. Bishop’s life verse is “I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut...” (Revelation 3 vs 8).
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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, July 26, 2017
Putting Dominica on the Map with a Taste of Dominica! Alyssa Mahadeo
alyssa@carib101.com
TC Reporter While Toronto offers a myriad of prospectively fun summer festivals, this season is an exciting time for many city dwellers as they get to spend time outdoors, try something new, and enjoy the vibrant thriving culture, and diversity that brings us together as a community. Popular amongst many is the annual food and street festivals that take place under the sun bringing chefs and cuisine options from across the world for us to try. Last weekend on July 15th, Mel Lastman Square on Yonge Street was host the first ever Taste of Dominica! Often mistaken for the Dominican Republic, Dominica is a mountainous Caribbean island nation with natural hot springs and tropical rainforests located between Guadeloupe and Martinique in the Caribbean Sea. In celebration of their cuisine and their culture, the Dominican Arts and Culture Exposé (DACE) invited the public to this free family friendly event to enjoy a small taste of what the island of Dominica has to offer. Dominica emphasizes respect and appreciation for the unspoiled nature of the island, and this is reflected in the use of local ingredients in island cuisine. Some dishes, such as agouti, and manicou, which are made from local rodents, have guests turning up their noses; while local produce such as guava and various citruses are so delectable that guests are left wanting more. The square was filled with the mouthwatering aromas of Caribbean street food with chefs from throughout the Caribbean islands offering samples of popular dishes from Dominica including codfish and bake, fried chicken, souse and the national dish of Dominica callaloo soup. Like many Caribbean islands, there is a great emphasis on fish. Starchy vegetables are very popular as
are plantains, and these can accompany a meal or be made into a snack. “The express purpose of organizing this event was to showcase Dominica cuisine and also give it more exposure here in the GTA because many confuse it with the Dominican Republic.” shared Mitchel Paul CEO & Executive Chairman of The Board of Directors at DACE. “Trinidad and Dominica share similar cuisine and style of cooking, but like many of the other islands they strive to create an identity of their own.” In addition to the Dominican food, attendees were able to enjoy other Caribbean dishes brought by chefs from the surrounding islands including jerk chicken, festivals, roti, and pelau. “This was the first event of its kind for this island and all we did pretty well for our first year with over 2,000 people passing through.” said Paul. “I felt that it would be a good way to celebrate our cuisine and allow our Caribbean brothers and sisters to take part and showcase their culinary skills as well.” They couldn’t have asked for more beautiful weather, and patrons who attended the Taste of Dominica were able to enjoy a fun filled event with food, fashion, arts, crafts, music and audio visual representations of the nature island of the Caribbean. Taste of Dominica was designed to lay the foundation for 2018. They did well for themselves and next year they hope to build a bigger and better event through more marketing promotions, and also the help of the Dominican community here in the GTA. “We want to put the island of Dominica on the GTA map.” Paul proclaimed. DACE is hoping to organize the Taste of Dominica for the second weekend in July of 2018, and they are looking forward to having the community rally together to help their cause. They want to thank those that came out to the event and tell them to look forward to a bigger event next year with more food, fashion, and entertainment to enjoy. If you are interested in getting involved in next years event please contact dominicaartsandculture@gmail. com they would love to hear the ideas the community have to offer.
Wednesday, July 26, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
local news
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Running To The Beat Of The Drum At Toronto Carnival Run Kristina Ramcharran kristina@carib101.com
TC Reporter
Continued From Page 1 -- As the runners began pouring back in from their marathons, they were awarded medals by the staff and cheered on by their supporters. Kataisee Richardson, a runner taking part in the 5k race said she had a great time, especially since this was her first time taking part in such an event. “I had a really great time, it was my first time running a 5k, or running any type of race, and I thought it was really well organized, and really welcoming,” she
said. Richardson added, “definitely going to be here next year.” Many of those taking part in the Toronto Carnival Run were in it for the very first time or were also taking part in their first run. The event was welcoming and inclusive to make sure runners of all levels were included. Gail Purcell traveled all the way from Grenada to be a part of the race, and although it was a last minute suggestion from some of her girlfriends, she’s glad she made the choice to participate. Purcell said, “I thought it was well organized and well planned, the route was good, it’s a good day, the weather was excellent for running.” She also noted that it was not intimidating at all. “Sometimes if you’re not a runner or not athletic, you think you won’t be able to make it. I think it’s good for walkers, for runners, for anyone.” But the event was also a ha-
ven for those experienced in running and doing marathons. Gareth Allison has experience in a variety of different runs, but he noted that the atmosphere at this run was simply incomparable. “I usually do 5k,10k and 15k runs, I’ve done a half and a couple of fulls [marathons], but this one is special,” said Allison. Allison also noted that this was something he wanted to be a part of since it kicked off last year. “I heard about it too late last year, so I made sure to get here this year and every other year that they do it.” Race director Dionne Mason took all measures to ensure that runners were able to have a good time and enjoy being active. Prior to the event while doing registrations at the Ajax Caribbean Festival, Mason noted the event raises money for the foundation. “This event is to promote health and
wellness, and also to raise money for my foundation which is called the Simunye Foundation. Simunye is a Zulu word which means ‘we are one, union and strength’.” The main goal of Mason’s foundation is to build a center that will preserve African and Caribbean Culture and also build a lifestyle center to promote health and wellness. Mason noted that her goal of building such cultural center would be a precedent in Toronto. The Toronto Carnival Run came to a close around 9:15 am as the race winners were announced and awarded with prizes. All runners were treated to a Caribbean inspired healthy breakfast as the Soca music provided the perfect background music to an active morning. More information on the event and information on upcoming runs can be found on torontocarnivalrun.com.
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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, July 26, 2017
The Road to CARIFESTA 2017: Canada Sends its First Caribbean Diaspora Contingent Kabrena Robinson
kabrena@carib101.com
TC Reporter “I am still pinching myself because at one point in time I had given up hope that It would ever happen,” confessed Rhoma Spencer, Artistic Director of The Canadian-Caribbean Arts Network (C-CAN) as she sat down for an interview at the Black Artists’ Networks Dialogue art gallery following a special meeting. The meeting was to inform the public of the new grand jubilation, that after eleven years of relentless advocacy by Spencer and colleagues at C-CAN, the goal had finally come to fruition. Canada is now able to send a contingent to the Caribbean Festival of Arts (CARIFESTA XIII) to be held in Barbados from August 17-27, 2017. A historic moment
for the community as this will be the first time in history that a contingent from the diaspora will be participating. The group of over 66 artists, spearheaded by C-CAN, is comprised of a wide variety of Canadian talents, from a dynamic array of dancers to musicians and performances in storytelling and spoken word. Two artists will also be presenting academic papers at the CARIFESTA Symposia. Financing for the initiative is expected to come from public and private agencies, as well as from the fundraising efforts of the participating artists and organizations. The first CARIFESTA, began in Guyana in 1972 attracting the participation of over 1,000 artists from thirty Caribbean and South American countries. The international multicultural event aims to gather artists, musicians, and authors to exhibit, celebrate, maximize artistic participation and to deepen the awareness and knowledge of the diverse aspirations within the Caribbean and Latin American Community. While the artists prepare for the fulfilling experience of indulging in the grand celebration of rich Caribbean arts and culture, the journey towards this much-anticipated moment
was not a smooth task. According to Spencer, the CARIFESTA committee over the past years has not been receptive to proposals about participation from the diaspora. Spencer explains that this possibly derives from the idea that artists of the Caribbean community in Canada are offered more opportunities than artists in smaller Caribbean countries. “I feel it was that kind of a fear of the unknown, but really and truly when we go down we are learning as much and taking from them to bring back with us as artists than they would be led to believe,” Spencer said. “I as an artist, I need to always touch base with home to recharge, to be able to come back here and do the work that I want to do by allowing myself to go back to the source and see what is happening in real time.” Dwayne Morgan, a Canadian spoken word artist, renowned author and founder of Up From The Roots Entertainment is one of the many artists apart of the Canadian-Caribbean delegation of talents to be showcased in Barbados at this year’s CARIFESTA XIII. As a Canadian of Jamaican descent, Morgan regards his inherited culture as being very influential to his successful career. Despite his international
success, Morgan sees the experience of being able to attend CARIFESTA representing the Caribbean diaspora as a learning experience and a great platform to showcase the diversity of Caribbean artists working in Canada. “There are so many people who are rooted in the Caribbean who leave and go elsewhere and kind of have one foot in the Caribbean and one foot in this new place and being stretched in that way forces you to create something new so we have something that is very new that is not necessarily Canadian not necessarily Caribbean but its this diasporic thing,” he said in an interview. “We are going to bring down there what we do here but hopefully there are things down there that we will bring back as well that will enhance what it is that we do here in Toronto.” As the many talented artists and members of C-CAN prepare to embark on this new venture, the hope is that the opportunity will provide a platform to “reconnect, recharge and merge two constantly evolving artistic realities”, a start towards fostering a closer relationship between the Canadian diaspora and the Caribbean community at “home”.
The Reigning Champion Won Again-Rusea’s High School Ashelly Smith
ashelly@carib101.com
TC Reporter The Lynx Canada Foundation and the Alliance of Jamaica Alumni Association hosted their annual SoccerFest. Eight teams made up of alumni representing secondary schools from all over Jamaica were selected to play in a tournament for the Alliance Cup. The secondary schools included: Cornwall College, Calabar High, Meadowbrook High, Rusea’s High, Edwin Allen, Mannings High, Kingston College, Charlie Smith, Holmwood, Lennon, and St. Elizabeth. Teams faced off at Fletcher’s Field in
Markham for the 2017 championships on July 16th; and can I tell you that it was an energetic day? It started off humid in the morning but as we know Canada’s weather is unpredictable and very changeable. In the afternoon, it was cloudy and began to rain. The fields were wet and muddy but the show must go on. Soon it was bright and sunny again and everyone was now in the cheering mood. The tournament began with Cornwall College facing Charlie Smith High School. Throughout the day, the City Soul Band and Charlee and Amoye performed. At SoccerFest, Kristina Ramcharran interviewed a number of representatives. The Chief Representative of Jamaica National Jerrold Johnson told us in an interview that this year was the first year SoccerFest actually had live performances and their own currency. On the face of the currency was Earl Jarrett the Chief Executive Officer for Jamaica National Group. You could only use the ‘SoccerFest money’ to purchase food. He commented that this year is the best year yet
and it will continue to grow. The Head of the Jamaica Tourist Board Philip Rose was one of our interviewees at SoccerFest. He was passionate about Jamaica’s Tourism and when asked: “What would you say to people who would love to go to Jamaica but are so burdened by the high expense of the destination?” “ You get what yuh pay for,” he said with confidence. The Jamaica Tourist Board is one of the sponsors of the event. Furthermore, the host of the event Dervan Malcolm, a radio host on the Power106fm in Jamaica was pretending to be shy to speak to us. Nevertheless, he was a great host and an eloquent communicator. He was supporting Team Jamaica rather than choosing a team from the tournament. However, he is a graduate of Calabar High School and former Head Boy. The reigning champion Rusea’s High school took the Alumni Cup for the seventh time. Rusea’s played against Kingston College 3-1. Then Rusea’s faced St.Jago in the semi-
Ol’ Time Carnival in Toronto
Leanne Benn
leanne@carib101.com
TC Reporter When we think of Carnival and more specifically Caribbean Carnival we often think about fetes, dancing in the streets, colorful costumes and a plethora of shared cultures and cuisines. But what happens to the untold story from times past. The history of Carnival celebrations is often forgotten and more importantly the historical link that the celebration followed the abolition of slavery from the British Empire for most Caribbean countries. The root of Carnival can be first traced back to the small and exotic twin island of Trinidad and Tobago in the 18th century where Carnival also remembers the Christian
roots of the festival. Clarence and Jackie Forde are the lead creative minds behind Cajuca Mas Arts Producers. The focus is all about celebrating Ol’ Time Carnival and the relation of Carnival to the stories of African ancestors of the Caribbean islands. While the names for these tales may differ from country to country most characters and figures from this folklore hold a significant spot in Caribbean mythology. Ol’ Time Carnival insists that the story must be told and they bring these creatures of folk to life in the form of intricate and extravagant costumes celebrating the true meaning of Carnival based on African and Caribbean folklore and freedom from slavery. During a chat with Clarence Forde, lead costume designer, he relayed the significance of each character they will be portraying this year. This is the second year for Ol’ Time Carnival and the event is being funded and supported by the City of Toronto and the Toronto Arts Council. Clarence and his wife Jackie are no strangers to creating Mas costumes, as they have over 25 years of experience and both decided it was time to revisit the roots of Carnival. They are even the recipients of the 2010 Innovation in Mas Award handed out by The Ontario Science Centre to Toronto Caribbean
Carnival costume designers. Some of the characters you can expect to see come to life are Midnight Robber, Jab Molassie, Dame Lorraine, Soucouyant, Shortknee, La Diablesse, The Pierrot Grenade, Calinda- Stick Fighters, and Minstrels. Now, these names may sound different in Caribbean cultures outside of Trinidad, but Ol’ Time Carnival is increasingly trying to include other Caribbean islands such as Grenadian folklore. For instance, what many call Soucouyant in Trinidad, Guyanese call this creature Ol’ Higue, but the mythical story goes the same. The tale is based on a blood sucking hag, who appears as a normal yet reclusive old woman in the day but by night she shape shifts into a ball of fire, by stripping herself of her wrinkled skin and placing it in a mortar. She can then travel into your home at night and suck the blood of her victims. Some also say her favorite choice is the blood of babies, leaving the victims with bite marks and bruises. Along with the myth of the Soucouyant comes the methods of protection including placing rice by entryways or on village streets, the creature is then forced to count every single grain before continuing, often daylight will come and you can then catch the hag in the act. The root of this folklore is
finals and won 2-0. The final scores were Rusea’s 3 and Kingston College 1. The Rusea’s High School coach Glenford Cadogan is certainly doing a great job coaching and mentoring his team. It takes a lot of hard work and discipline to continue to be the successful son, I commend Mr. Cadogan on his dedication to his team. The Earl Jarrett Most Valuable Player Award went to Evan Taylor. He was the most distinguished player for the day as he scored the most goals. Hip Hip Hurray for Evan Taylor, congratulations on your award. In conclusion, Soccerfest has been a success for over thirty-three years. AJAA is a charitable umbrella comprised of forty Toronto-based alumni associations affiliated with high schools in Jamaica. This special event aims at bringing the Jamaican-Canadian community together in one exciting setting. The food and the vibes at the event were fascinating! If you missed SoccerFest this year, please make it a date to be there next year. Admission was $5.00 and free parking too!
traced to tales of enslaved Africans. Another display from folklore that is a little less terrifying is Dame Lorraine, this was a Mas character seen in the 18th and 19th-century celebrations and is based on African slaves mocking French aristocracy, it is often portrayed as a man dressed in an extravagant dress with a voluptuous shape and eccentric dressings. The Dame Lorraine then parades around private yards on the night of Carnival Sunday. The Ol’ Time Carnival truly hopes to reflect on the history of emancipation and recognizing African ancestry. While the presentation will feature all these characters in costume, there will also be no stereo music but instead just the beat of drums. In African culture, the drums were sometimes banned on plantations because slaves used the beat of the drums to communicate with other slaves. This year there will be three presentations of Ol’ Time Carnival at three different events, The King and Queen Show, Animating Our Waterfront and Arts in the Park on August 3rd, 12th, and 19th respectively. For more information on these events as well as the history of each character featured, visit dingolay.ca or @dingolaytoronto.
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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, July 26, 2017
Plot To Kill The President Unbelievable - Crime Chief Tells COI
GUYANA -- Crime Chief, Wendell Blanhum, has described the allegations of a plot to assassinate President David Granger as “inherently incredible” when called before the Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the matter on Monday. Blanhum, who engaged in a heated rebuttal with Commissioner and former Assistant Commissioner of Police, Paul Slowe, was asked by retired Justice Ian Chang to state how he views the allegations made by Andriff Gillard. Gillard had alleged that Nizam Khan had offered him $7M to assassinate President Granger sometime in 2015 but he declined. The accuser said he had approached Khan to borrow $6M and it was then when the accused said he would give him $7M if he killed the President. “How would you view the allegation made by Gillard? asked Justice Chang who is representing the interest of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to which Blanhum responded, “It is my humble opinion that the allegation made by Gillard against Khan is inherently incredible.” During his testimony, the Crime Chief told the Commission that based on legal advice received from Police Legal Advisor (PLA), Justice Claudette Singh, the information yielded from the investigation was “tenuous” and as such should continue; it was not sufficient to lay charges. In his evidence-in-chief, Blanhum recounted that he received a call from a staff of the Ministry of Public Security on March 29, indicating that Gillard was at the said ministry and claimed he was offered $7M to kill the President. “I contacted Commander ‘A’ Division and explained to him the story told to me by the lady…and based on the serious nature, I requested that he send none other than the Divisional Detective, Michael Kingston,” he told the Commission. Commander ‘A’ Division at the time, Clifton Hicken had complied and Kingston escorted Gillard to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to meet with Blanhum. Head of the Major Crime Unit, Mitchell Caesar, was also present and Gillard was interviewed. “After telling us…I instructed Caesar to commence an investigation into the matter. They left my office…thereafter I reported the allegation to David Ramnarine, who was the acting Police Commissioner at the time.” Ramnarine said he was going to inform his superiors about the matter, Blanhum said. Additionally, he recounted that Caesar kept him abreast with the state of the investigation and at around 16:00h, told him they were finished taking the 17-page statement
from Gillard and were en route to arrest Khan. Khan was arrested at his Diamond, East Bank Demerara home, his firearm seized and his home searched. Meanwhile, Blanhum said he received a brief from Caesar at around 08:30hrs the following day and it was then he was made aware that Nizam Khan was placed on station bail. He told the Commission that “significant progress” was made in the investigation as officers were in possession of statements from Gillard and one, Stephen Persaud. He noted too, reports of Gillard’s refusal to attend scheduled confrontations. “Gillard was frustrating the process,” said Blanhum, who said he subsequently received a file from the PLA on June 11, which stated that no one could be charged as there was insufficient evidence. Commissioner Slowe questioned why Gillard was taken to CID as opposed to ‘A’ Division for questioning. The Crime Chief noted the seriousness of the allegation and the fact that CID has a number of experienced persons along with the requisite resources. Blanhum was unsure whether a report was made from ‘A’ Division. “On a weekly basis as the Crime Chief, I am engaged with over one hundred investigations at the executive level of the force, the strategic, tactical level and operational level and I think the question should be asked to the investigators themselves,” he added. However, Slowe contented that Blanhum ought to have ensured that his subordinates acted in accordance with the stipulated requirements. “You are responsible for a serious investigation, are you suggesting to me that you are overwhelmed?” the Commissioner asked to which Blanhum replied, “I never said that…I am telling you I won’t be able to answer that question, it is for an investigator to say whether he made an entry…that is not my responsibility.” The Crime Chief said he has been at CID for the past 17 years and there is absolutely no need for the Crime Chief to verify who made entries into the station diary or any other document. He made it clear that he is a “manager at the executive level”. Seelall Persaud intervened Additionally, the Crime Chief said he did not find it strange that his subordinates granted bail to both the accused and accuser along with the accused’s brother, Imran Khan, who was accused of disorderly behaviour at the CID. The Commission heard that it was
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GUYANA -- The 13 prisoners who escaped from the Lusignan Prison on Sunday night fled from the area via five feet long conduit, which was dug in the vicinity of a make-shift toilet. This is according to Director of Prisons, Gladwin Samuels who told the media during a press briefing on Monday at the Ministry of Public Security that personnel at a tower which is in the vicinity of the area was probably hampered by low visibility.
Police Commissioner, Seelall Persaud, who instructed that the men receive bail. Persaud was reportedly on leave at the time and Assistant Commissioner of Police, Ramnarine was acting Police Commissioner. Moreover, Blanhum did not view the alleged plot by Khan to be treason and noted that it was merely an incitement to commit murder. “You don’t see it as treasonous? asked Slowe. The Crime Chief in response said, “I already made myself clear…as Crime Chief I am obligated to rely on facts and not my feelings.” He disclosed that the Special Branch Unit was also involved in the operations. Slowe brought it to the attention of Blanhum that a report dated April 3, and submitted to the Police Commissioner for reportage to the National Security Council (NSC) bore the wrong date. Instead of March 29, the report stated April 3, Blanhum noted that was simply an error. “We all make mistakes, what relevance does that have on the case,” asked the Crime Chief who was clearly ruffled by the line of questioning. “It has a lot, it shows that you weren’t diligent in observing the dates… it tells me that due attention wasn’t paid to a document that you were sending to your superior that had to go to, perhaps the highest security level in this country,” said Slowe. It was then that Blanhum accused Slowe of being prejudicial in his assessment. “With all due respect commissioner, you are making assumptions and your comments based on your personal experience which can be viewed as prejudicial.” Slowe immediately dismissed Blanhum’s concerns, “Whether you determine it prejudicial or not, that is a matter for you.” Dereliction of duty Former Commander ‘A’ Division Clifton Hicken appeared earlier before the Commission and he too bumped heads with Slowe. Slowe told Hicken that there was a dereliction of his duty when he failed to question Gillard on March 29. Hicken told the Commission that he received a call from the Crime Chief requesting that Gillard be escorted to CID headquarters from the Ministry of Public Security. He sent Divisional Detective, Michael Kingston, to collect Gillard and take him to his (Hicken’s) office. When Gillard arrived, Hicken only verified he was the person Blanhum referred to and sent him to CID with Kingston. The former Commander told the Commission that he contacted the Police Commissioner on the matter and, he too, told him to have Gil-
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Prisoners Dug Hole Beneath Make-Shift Toilet Samuels noted that the men may have fled between 1:00hrs -2:30 hrs when it was raining heavily in the area. He explained that because some prisoners would have been uncomfortable in using the portable toilet facility provided at the pasture area where they were being held, some of the men resorted to relieve themselves at an area where two fences converge in a “V” shape. He said that a zinc sheet was erected
lard sent to CID immediately for questioning. “I confirmed the name of the man and forwarded him to CID headquarters,” said Hicken who currently serves as Assistant Commissioner, Operations. Asked why he did not question Gillard, he said, “It was not for me to get involved in matters involving CID.” This response did not find favour with Slowe who said, “I am not accepting that!” “Won’t you have been interested to know what is the story?” he continued. But Hicken maintained that he did what was required of him. He said it was necessary for him to ensure it was the right individual being escorted to CID. “Chief, you have to confirm these things…if it was the wrong person, I would have been in the hot water by now,” said Hicken, who made it clear he has no intention to tarnish the nature of the investigation. “I just didn’t want to get involve.” “Nobody wanted to get involve…that is quite clear and based on what you have said so far… you chose not to ask the man any questions,” concluded the Commissioner who noted “that is neglect, that is dereliction of duty.” Hicken noted too, that as far as he is aware the matter was not recorded in his division and noted he was specifically asked to escort Gillard and not to interview him. “That is a commander level perspective?” questioned Slowe to which Hicken replied, “You are harping on the commander level and you know that when things are handled at CID Headquarters, commanders don’t get involved…I think some of the structures would have faded away…I note your tone and I am very straight with this inquiry…I know what you’re saying but the standard and latitude you would have had in your time is different…this is not where you left…this is a different time.” However, Slowe maintained that initial investigations should begin at the divisional level and there must be records to reflect same. Hicken disclosed too, that while he is not familiar with the accused Nizam Khan, he is familiar with his brother Imran, called ‘Rastaman’. He told the Commission that `Rastaman’ has a workshop on the East Bank Demerara (EBD). “As Commander ‘A’ Division, I know a lot of people,” he said. “I know him because he has a workshop and from time to time police vehicle use to be helped out there… if there was minor repairs he would help us out and look after the vehicle,” he continued, after being pressed by Slowe. Retired Justice Chang later noted that Imran Khan is the son of ‘Rasta man’. . - Guyana Chronicle
in the area and according to him, the earth in that area would have been soft as a result of inundation. On the outer part of the fence where the escape occurred, Samuels said there was some amount of grass which he posited may have provided coverage for the escapees. Samuels described the hole as being 5 feet in depth, stretching 5 feet in length and another 2 feet on the outer portion of the hole where the men exited the area. Minister
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of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan told the media that in light of the escape there will be increased monitoring of security on the outer perimeter to patrol the area. While Ramjattan took responsibility for the escape, he told the media that he does not think he should resign. - Guyana Chronicle
Wednesday, July 26, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
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No Gag Order On Marcia Case
TRINIDAD -- Attorneys for Chief Justice Ivor Archie are expected to move for an adjournment to give them time to review and file affidavits in the landmark case of former chief magistrate Marcia Ayers-Caesar versus the Judicial and Legal Service Commission and Chief Justice Ivor Archie. The T&T Guardian has been reliably informed that the CJ’s team will include Senior Counsel Deborah Peake, Russell Martineau and Reginald Armour when the matter is called before Justice David Harris on Thursday. Meanwhile, the Registrar of the High Court Monday confirmed to Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj SC that there is no gag order on the matter. Maharaj had written to the Registrar on the issue last week, after reading media reports which suggested the documents in the case had been sealed although he made no such request. Ayers-Caesar has alleged in sworn affidavits obtained by the T&T Guardian, among other things, that she was forced by the CJ and the JLSC to either resign or be removed. Legal sources told the T&T Guardian that had she chosen not to resign, the JLSC would have invoked section 137 of the Constitution, which speaks to how a judge is removed. Given the JLSC’s public pronouncement that Ayers-Caesar had been less than truthful about the part heard matters which were before her at the time of her elevation to the Supreme Court, the JLSC would have started proceedings against her for misbehaviour in public office. But one former judge said while
Ayers-Caesar’s affidavits are sworn statements that she was forced to sign a resignation letter, they are not enough to trigger section 137 against the Chief Justice. The former judge acknowledged, however, that the affidavits establish that the CJ “used force, and undue pressure, that is not the way for a Chief Justice to behave and could be viewed as misconduct.” An important component of the case, according to the former judge, is the evidence of the two former judges who were members of the JLSC at the time, Justices Roger HamelSmith and Humphrey Stollmeyer. Both men have since resigned, but the T&T Guardian was told they will have to submit affidavits and if called to give evidence will have to do so. Israel Khan SC Monday agreed Stollmeyer and Hamel-Smith “are the most important witnesses in this matter.” He said, “They cannot abdicate their responsibility because they were sitting members of the JLSC when the matter arose.” Khan, however, did not share the view of Martin Daly SC that the CJ and head of the Public Service Commission Maureen Manchouk should resign, since he said they are “automatic members of the JLSC by virtue of the offices which they hold.” Khan said the contents of the affidavits have now cemented his call for the police to investigate the matter. He said while there are calls for the Prime Minister to use his authority under the Constitution to initiate a tribunal “the Prime Minister cannot set up an inquiry without
evidence that the CJ did something radically wrong. That requires a police investigation.” Khan said he found it instructive that “Maharaj has signalled that the worse that could happen is that Ayers-Caesar could lose in the High Court and the Court of Appeal. It is an indication that he feels she may not get a fair trial locally, but he is sure he will win at the Privy Council.” Former High Court Judge Herbert Volney is also of the view that the Commissioner of Police must act based on the information contained in the affidavits which are now in the public domain. Speaking on the CNC3’s Morning Brew Monday, Volney said the Director of Public Prosecutions Roger Gaspard also “cannot continue to say and do nothing about it because he has taken an oath to defend the law and the Constitution.” Volney is also of the view that things have “ripened,” since the meeting of Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley and Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar. While he said the Prime Minister cannot rush in to set up a tribunal, he said Rowley must guard against the public losing further confidence in the judicial process. He said Rowley should “call in the Attorney General and the AG must speak to the DPP to get the considered opinion of the Commissioner of Police.” - Trinidad Guardian
Minister On Tertiary Sector: Impossible To Continue Wholesale Funding
TRINIDAD -- Although the current administration has continued to place much emphasis on the provision of education across all levels, senior government officials have said that it is simply impossible to continue the wholesale funding for the tertiary sector due to several pressing reasons. Chief among the reasons was the current economic constraints which necessitated an urgent revision of the Government Assistance for Tuition Expenses (GATE) programme and the fact that that a comprehensive review had not been undertaken since its introduction in 2004. GATE was a replacement for the UNC’s Dollar-for-Dollar Education Plan which started in 2001. Blasting the People’s National Movement (PNM) for its part in what he dubbed an “erosion” of decades of progress of the education system, former Tertiary Education Minister Fazal Karim Monday accused them of successively dismantling the system within the last two years. However, in an immediate rebuttal Education Minister Anthony Garcia responded that the PNM remained committed to providing an education for as they adhered to the mandate of the 2000 Dakar Commitment to Education for All. Pointing out that tertiary education participation had increased from eight per cent in 2002 to an estimated 65.23 per cent in 2015, Garcia said the targeted tertiary participation
rate of at least 60 per cent by 2015 has therefore, been exceeded. He said, “The current level of tertiary participation compares favourably with the rate for developed countries.” Karim argued that the incompetence and negligence of the PNM had brought T&T closer to a failed state as prior to GATE and Dollar-for-Dollar, many middle income and working-class families could not have afforded tertiary education. This was immediately refuted by Garcia who said, “In 2016, the GATE Programme was reviewed in order to ensure sustainability of funding. The National Consultations on Education and a Task Force were instrumental in assisting the Government in its review.” “It was noted that most of the recipients of the GATE Programme are from families which fall in the middle to high income groups of the society.” Garcia said declining local and global energy prices had led to concerns over the sustainability of current expenditure levels via the GATE Programme. He added: “Currently, the Government is experiencing significant reductions in revenues and foreign exchange earnings as a result of the falling prices of oil and gas.” Garcia said when the GATE Programme was first introduced, oil prices ranged from US $40 to US$ 50 per barrel. Garcia stressed: “Students whose monthly household income is less than $10,000
will be fully funded under the GATE Programme.” “Where the household income is above $10,000 per month but less than $30,000, students will be eligible for 75 per cent of tuition fees. Students whose household income exceeds $30,000 per month will be required to pay 50 per cent of tuition fees” He went on further that while means testing is optional; those not wishing to complete the application would be required to pay 50 per cent of their tuition fees. Meanwhile, in order to assist students with tuition fees if required, the loan ceiling for the Higher Education Loan Programme (HELP) was increased from $25,000 to $35,000 for students studying locally. The minister said only a small percentage of the student population, that being three per cent, had accessed loans in the past. He said in this regard, Government was guided by current national economic challenges but had also agreed to consider a more holistic calculation of means testing by August 2018, taking into consideration other factors such as the size of student’s household and household assets. From the inception of the GATE Programme in 2004 up to the 2015/2016 academic year, Government has spent over $6.3 billion covering programmes that range from Technical and Vocational Training (TVET) to PhD studies. - Trinidad Guardian
Third Man Charged With Malabar Double Murder
TRINIDAD -- A third man has been charged with the murders of Haffiza Rose Mohammed 56, and 13-year-old school boy Videsh Subar. appeared before Magistrate Gloria Jasmath in the Arima court. Devon Edwards appeared before Magistrate Gloria Jasmath Monday charged with the crime. He is also charged with robbery with aggravation. On July 17, Solomon Baksh, younger brother of murder victim Haffiza Rose Mohammed and his co-accused Wayne Liverpool of
North Eastern Settlement, Ojoe Sangre Grande appeared before Magistrate Gloria Jasmath and were remanded in prison to make their next court appearance on August 14. Edwards, who was dressed in blue jersey and blue jeans, kept turning his head smiling with a woman who was sat in the courtroom. The charges were laid by PC Danny Moonsammy of Homicide Bureau Region 11, Arouca. Mohammed, 56, and her neighbour
Subar, were both found bound, with their throats slit at Mohammed’s, Ajim Baksh Trace, Malabar, Arima home on June 28. Mohammed was a caretaker of Subar since he was a baby Edwards is also accused of robbing the victims of cellphones, power tools, a flatscreen television, TT$10,000, US$900 jewelry among other items. Edwards was not represented and he will join his other two accomplices when they will all return to court on August 14. - Trinidad Guardian
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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, July 26, 2017
An Unassumingly Delightful Human Being UCC Confers Honorary Degree on ‘Butch’ Hendrickson
JAMAICA -- Businessman and philanthropist Gary “Butch” Hendrickson has again been recognised for his decades of accomplishment in entrepreneurship, industry, and leadership in Jamaica, and for his support to various charities and organisations across the island. Hendrickson, who is the chief executive officer of Continental Baking Company Limited, Sunday graciously accepted an honorary doctorate in business administration from the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC), at its 2017 commencement ceremony at the National Arena in Kingston. Over 700 graduands were conferred with degrees at the ceremony themed ‘Embrace Opportunities to Transform the World’. The CEO was cited as one of the most accomplished businessmen in Jamaica today, with over 30 years’ membership in the American Society of Bakery Engineers, and lauded for growing Continental Baking Company from nine
JAMAICA -- Stressing that the number of murders committed in St James since the start of the year is “untenable”, chairman of the St James Municipal Corporation Homer Davis has announced that his councillors and senior members of the St James Police Division are to meet this morning in an effort to stem the blood-etting. He did not indicate whether any specific area has been singled out for discussion, but it is expected that lotto scamming, for which the parish has become notorious, will be on the agenda. “The rate of murders in this parish demands action. It is untenable, and I will be using my office to convene a special meeting with the St James Police High Command and my councillors on Monday at 10:00 am at the St James Municipal Corporation building to see how we can develop a fixity of purpose in putting a lid on
bakers, eight salesmen, four vans, and four carts, to a staff of approximately 1,000, two manufacturing plants, an ever-expanding product mix, and a large overseas market. UCC also recognised Hendrickson for his contribution to various charities and the education sector, in his drive to help transform the economy. The university noted institutions and initiatives that have benefited from his generosity, including Crayon’s Count, the Mustard Seed Community, the Bustamante Hospital for Children, Missionaries of the Poor, and St Patrick’s Foundation. “Mr Hendrickson has been a role model to many entrepreneurs in Jamaica and elsewhere. Today, the UCC is pleased to salute him and to recognise his cumulative record of outstanding achievement as a business leader and manager, an entrepreneur, a contributor to a range of charitable causes, and an unassumingly delightful human being,” the university said.
Hendrickson, in his acceptance remarks, said he was humbled and excited by the honour, stating that he felt privileged to help marshal change in the society. Speaking directly to the graduands, he implored them to “be the change” that Jamaican profoundly craves. The CEO stressed the importance of transparency and lamented the “politics of poverty”, which he said enriched only a few, with diminishing returns for others. Pointing to various ills in the society, he noted the scourge of lottery scamming, calling the criminal activity “the perfect embodiment of today’s Jamaica”. Hendrickson said these were harsh truths but argued that in order to fix them, all Jamaicans must face them. He called on the graduating class to work hard to help redefine the country and the principles on which it once thrived: “We must commit to bring value to the table.” Meanwhile, group executive chairman of the UCC, Dr Winston Adams said the univer-
St James Cops, Councillors In Crime Talks the escalation of murders in this our beloved parish,” Davis told the Association of Past Members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force Benevolent Society, Area One, at its annual general meeting in Montego Bay on the weekend. Up to Sunday, the number of murders recorded in St James since the start of the year stood at 158. There were 140 recorded murders during the similar period last year. Davis argued, however, that despite the high level of crime in St James, the parish continues to experience economic growth and development. “The parish of St James despite all its challenges... is still enjoying a level of economic development… and it’s still puzzling to many persons that despite our high murder rate, the local econ-
omy is still growing,” he told the gathering. Last week, Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Dr Horace Chang, told the Small Business Association of Jamaica’s (SBAJ) Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME) Caribbean Conference at the Hilton Rose Hall Resort that the Government is positioning Montego Bay as a major centre for business in western Jamaica. He pointed out that Montego Bay is one of the fastest growing cities in the Caribbean and presents high investment appeal in an open and welcoming atmosphere. “This bustling city is poised for growth and expansion. Indeed, Montego Bay, and particularly the port and its nearby coastlines are part of an overall plan to modernise and expand our points of entry to
sity is exploring the regional franchising market, with a view to replicating the UCC model elsewhere in the Commonwealth. “There is keen interest, particularly from educators and entrepreneurs in the UK and the Caribbean, at this time. This is a new and untapped market which has demonstrated exponential growth in the higher education sector,” he stated. The UCC was established in January 2004, initially focusing on providing more flexible tertiary programmes to Jamaicans through a merger of the Institute of Management Sciences and the Institute of Management and Production. In addition to degrees in business, information technology, and engineering, the university offers a diploma in law and a bachelor of laws degree in partnership with the University of London. Additionally, its range of undergraduate programmes have been expanded from six to nine online degrees as of this fall. - Jamaica Observer
ensure maximum appeal for new investment, and to strengthen our current industries in the western part of the island,” said Dr Chang, who is also the Member of Parliament for St James North Western, which has accounted for many of the murders recorded in the parish since the start of the year. Meanwhile, Davis said the newly passed zones of special operations law, which he described as a step in the right direction, is not a panacea. He stressed that he is particularly pleased with the social intervention component of the law. “Over the years, we have tried the Suppression of Crime Act, which over a while did not serve its purpose, but I believe the new act will go a far way in dealing with the crime situation,” he argued. - Jamaica Observer
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Crisis! Kingston High School Battles High Teen Pregnancy Rates
JAMAICA -- Every year between 10 and 15 grade 10 students of Clan Carthy High drop out of school due to pregnancy. Principal Hazel Cameron made the glaring revelation in a recent interview with the Jamaica Observer. The reasons, she said, are mostly socioeconomic in nature. She cited limited financial resources, poor parental support, and myriad other ills as impacting the situation. “They are not able to afford lunch money, transportation, among other needs in order to attend school, and their partners provide monetary support. These girls are also at an emotional and social disadvantage and look to these men to fill the role of their parents,” said Cameron. Citing other factors that contribute to the problem, she said: “Some girls fall prey to teen pregnancy because of peer pressure and the desire to fit in. In addition, many of the students lack proper sex education and so, while engaging in sexual relationships, they do not protect themselves adequately.” however, the school allows the girls to return to complete their education, but
only few do so. “Everyone deserves a second chance. Oftentimes the girls who may get pregnant are those who have the potential to do very well. Therefore, we believe that, despite the setback, as a learning institution, we should continue to provide that opportunity for self-improvement and upward mobility,” said Cameron. One story that has turned around is that of single-mother Oshin Cunningham, who got pregnant at age 15, in the first-term of grade 10 before she could sit her Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations. Despite the shame she felt for becoming pregnant at such a young age, Cunningham made a valiant decision whilst at the Women’s Centre of Jamaica to not become another statistic, and so she re-enrolled at Clan Carthy. “I told myself I’m not the worst, and that I had to push myself. I wanted to take shame off myself so I decided to go back to my school,” said Cunningham with pride beaming in her eyes about taking the step and not waiting on the education ministry or the centre to place her in a
school. After the one-year hiatus, Cunningham said she had become ‘rusty’ from being out of school, but she was not deterred. She stayed after school, borrowed her friend’s books, and joined study groups to catch up with her counterparts. Now 18 years old, Cunningham has two City and Guilds certificates in maths and English and is awaiting the results of the electronic document preparation and management and integrated science CSEC exams. She also has a skill in cosmetology and hopes to make further pursuits in this area. At the school’s recent graduation ceremony, Cameron shared Cunningham’s story and applauded her for returning to school and sitting her exams. The institution goes “above and beyond” to help its most vulnerable students, “who are often from the lowest socioeconomic strata, to stay in school”, she said. “The basic needs must be met. If their basic needs are not met, you lose them. So, you have to cater to those first,” Cameron said while noting that the school witnessed a significant im-
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provement in students’ attitude to learning when their basic needs are met. To that end, the high school often has to provide students with lunch, bus fare, groceries, uniforms, school supplies, as well as counselling through its Student Services Department which consists of a guidance counsellor, welfare co-ordinator, and home and family life education teachers. Cameron revealed that the school has less than 40 per cent of the parents on board to give support to the school, or to the students. “Even though we have a PTA [ParentTeachers’ Association] executive that tries, the parents are just not coming out. We only see parents when something goes wrong and they feel that it is the school’s fault, or when a phone is confiscated, or when we have to give suspension or threaten a student with expulsion,” said Cameron, the frustration in her voice hard to conceal. - Jamaica Observer
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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, July 26, 2017
One Or Two Communities At A Time
JAMAICA -- Commissioner of Police George Quallo says the police will not be conducting operations in more than two areas at a time under its new powers granted by the Zones of Special Operations Act. Responding to a question from former Director of Public Prosecutions Kent Pantry at a meeting of the Rotary Club of Trafalgar New Heights in St Andrew, last Thursday, about the sustainability of police operations, the commissioner indicated that the lack of sustainability in some instances has been due to the insufficient number of police personnel. He maintains that the 11,000-strong constabulary has 3,000 men fewer than it ought to have. “The zones of special operations, especially in the initial phase, is labour intensive, so it is pointless to take on three or four (areas),” he told the audience of young professionals at the Rotary club meeting. “So, the approach is [to] take on one or two, bring them to a stable state where the other social agencies can [come in],” he said. Commissioner Quallo says it has often been the case where the police will stabilise activities in communities, but the intervention breaks down during the social rebuilding phase.
“But I am confident that this time around we will see a different approach, and we expect it to continue to its natural end,” he affirmed. The commissioner said, too, that the constabulary intends to be more proactive in its approach to crime fighting and will focus more keenly on vulnerable communities. He underscored that deepening a culture of prevention is among his priorities and he called for Rotarians and other service organisations members to strengthen activities that seek to transform behaviour, especially among residents in depressed areas. “We cannot continue to sit back and wait for the carnage to happen. We must act now!” he urged. “It’s not only operations and hard-core policing that will help us to achieve our objectives,” he told Rotarians, later explaining that community policing, which includes working with community groups and service clubs to implement sustainable projects that address issues before they emerge, is also critical to crime prevention. For his part, Quallo noted that the police has been strengthening its social intervention strategies through programmes such as its Identity Purpose Attitude and Destiny (IPAD) summer programme in western Jamaica, which
has, since 2015, influenced some 5,000 young people, some of whom were potential gang members. “A key to crime prevention has to be greater involvement from every well-thinking citizen in this country,” Commissioner Quallo stressed. “Partnership with community members and organisations is urgently needed in the fight to prevent and ultimately reduce crime.” The police commissioner accepted that there is need for the police to implement a dynamic, intelligencebased approach to crime fighting, which features an intelligence structure consistent with current demands and upgraded analytical tools that produce reliable information. To that end, he revealed that the Jamaica constabulary Force and the New York Police Department have been having exchanges and plans are afoot to implement some best practices. Despite the negatives, Quallo reported that the police have recovered some 450 illegal guns, have made more than 250 arrests for illegal firearms, and have arrested more than 300 people for major crimes since the start of the year. It is evidence, he said, that the police’s strategies have been bearing fruit. - Jamaica Observer
Unparliamentary! Upper House Clashes Over Disrespectful Behaviour
JAMAICA -- Leader of Government Business Senator Kamina Johnson Smith on Friday made an appeal for the members to show more respect for each other, especially female members during their exchanges. “I call on members to be more respectful of each other, but I also call specifically in respect to the male members and how they refer to female members of the House,” Senator Johnson Smith said. “It is important that these things not be normalised, and it shouldn’t be OK, and it shouldn’t be just brushed aside as being a part of the discourse,” Johnson Smith insisted. Leader of Opposition Business Senator Mark Golding, however, claimed that the disrespect was on both sides. But as the exchanges continued between the two Senate leaders, Government member Senator Kavan Gayle, who was sitting in the president’s chair for Senator Tom Tavares Finson who is currently on leave, suggested that it would be best for them to thrash out the problem when Tavares Finson returns this week. The issue, which developed from a statement made by Senator Johnson Smith at the adjournment of Friday’s meeting of the Senate, resulted from a number of exchanges over the last few weeks mainly between Opposition member Senator Lambert Brown and a number of Government senators, including the three Government female senators. On Friday, Brown was accused of unparliamentary behaviour when he insisted that Government member Senator Saphire Longmore “shut up” during her presentation on a Bill facilitating
the resumption of Government’s annual $11.4 million withdrawal from the National Housing Trust (NHT). The Bill was passed after a lengthy and often contentious debate, especially between Brown and the Government members. The Opposition senator had frequent exchanges, as well, with Government Senator Charles Sinclair about Prime Minister Andrew Holness’s past objection to withdrawals from NHT funds for non-housing matters during the debate on the Bill, formally titled ‘The National Housing Trust (Amendment) Act, 2017’, which was taken through all its stages. Senator Johnson Smith accused Brown of misleading the Senate in his claim that the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) had taken the previous Government to court over a previous attempt to raid the NHT’s resources. This led Gayle, to warn Brown of the statements he was making. Senator Brown then noted that Senator Gayle was sitting on the NHT board at the time Holness made his remarks, to which Gayle responded: “I don’t want you to cast me under any cloud based on your aspersions. Be careful.” Senator Sinclair then recalled that Brown was a member of the NHT board during the Outameni scandal, “which the auditor general said breached the Public Bodies Management and Accountability Act”. Johnson Smith said at the adjournment Friday that there had been many “unfortunate moments” in the sittings, recently. “There is no way, in fact, that I could allow this sitting to close without calling for greater respect between
members and, in particular, I really want the male members of the House to be respectful when addressing female members,” she said. “I have not heard any female member throwing any epithet or using unparliamentary language across the floor,” she pointed out. Senator Golding, rose on a point of order, stating that her statement would warrant a response from the Opposition. “The truth is there is blame on both sides,” Golding said.“Certain speakers on our side get constant interruption and running chatter from several persons on that side. So I would say that the blame is on both sides for this ‘cass cass’. So, if you want to improve the conduct in this place, and move it forward, then there should be more respect from both sides towards persons who are speaking on their feet. And it is not a gender issue,” he added. But Senator Johnson Smith maintained that “there is cut and thrust and there is disrespect”. “I, for one, could not hold the office that I hold in this Parliament and not bring attention to it. I have been a victim of it, and I can’t now not stand with my colleague (Senator Longmore) when she is put at the end of it,” she said. Senator Brown rose and stated that Johnson Smith’s reference to another senator as “she” was “unparliamentary”. Senator Gayle brought the exchange to an end at this point, suggesting that with the expected return of Senator Tavares Finson this week, the leaders should meet with him and discuss the matter. The Senate was then adjourned. - Jamaica Observer
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feature
PAGE 19
Ease Your Immigration Woes With Travidocs Are you or someone you know trying to make Canada your new home? You’re not alone. Ever since First Nations communities co-habited with European settlers, Canada has been a land of immigration. According to the City of Toronto’s official website, between 2001 and 2006, 1,109,980 immigrants were welcomed to Canada, and of those, about a quarter (267,855) arrived in Toronto. And there are some pretty great draws to officially becoming a Canadian, like universal healthcare, and living in a country where the head of government does not engage in Twitter tirades. There are also the uniquely Canadian things you have to get used to: our love of maple syrup, our fascination with hockey, our strange affinity for the word ‘sorry’. But before you can officially add those Canadian quirks to your own personal list of quirks, you have to go through a process that often brings dread to those who are familiar with it: filling out immigration forms. Luckily, Travidocs is here to help. Created by Richard Brown, Travidocs is your easy, cost-effective guide to getting through those piles of immigration paperwork. When Richard moved to Canada from his homeland of Jamaica, he found that it was difficult to get the help and support he needed in order for his immigration process to go through smoothly. “I’m an immigrant, and I saw that there was a huge disconnect between representatives and their clients. So, I wanted to bring that back and bridge the gap and make sure clients get the best services,” says Richard.
He has a passion for all things immigration and wants to help families considering either temporary or permanent residency to achieve their goals. At Travidocs, Richard and his team help people with a variety of immigration needs, whether you’re looking to apply for citizenship, renew your permanent residency, or get a visa— whether it be a visitor’s visa, a working visa, or a student visa. The philosophy at Travidocs is to provide a low-cost service that guides its clients through applications. “We tell our clients what to do, rather than paying us to do it,” Richard says. “We give the forms, we put it up, and that’s it.” The beauty of the service is that it is an online platform: you simply log on to travidocs.com, select what kind of application you’re interested in, register with an email address or a social media account (such as Facebook), verify a few quick details about yourself, and you’re registered. After the registration process, you are taken through an initial assessment, where you’re asked questions like what country you are applying from, your country of citizenship (this should be the country your passport is issued from), and whether or not you are in a common law union. From there, you’ll be asked more questions such as what languages you are proficient in, your education, and your employment background. Depending on what kind of application you are doing, the online form may generate more detailed questions. However, just because Travidocs is an online service, don’t think that means
there’s never any personal contact with a staff member. After clients get their visas, they receive a welcoming message, and for visitor’s visas, a brief guide that has suggestions on interesting places to go to. But Richard still remembers the story of one particular family he reached out to. “There was a family, […] the parents were here for a birthday party, which was more of a surprise party. One of the parents, the mom, her sister I think was from Brazil, and they haven’t seen each other for thirty years, so she came here. So, the family used Travidocs to do the visitor’s visa for those visiting. They were eligible so they got their visa. They sent us an email after the fact with the family at the birthday party. That was amazing,” he recounts. Though Travidocs receives submissions from a variety of applicants, Richard says there’s one demographic that steadily uses the service: international students. With the abundance of world-class post-secondary institutions in the GTA, this comes as no surprise. Richard explains that because of the nature of Travidocs, students are drawn towards it. “It’s cost-effective, and as they’re applying for school, they need to get their visa and paperwork done,” he says. The fact that everything is done digitally also makes it an attractive service for students to use; all correspondence is given to clients via the website’s dashboard. Individuals from Trinidad, India, Guyana, and Jamaica also make up a rather large portion of their clientele. Bearing this in mind, Travidocs connects these clients with staff members who are also
from the Caribbean and South America. “That’s just to show we are very dedicated to making sure the talent that we utilize is from our community,” Richard explains. When you use Travidocs, not only can you rest assured that you are dealing with someone who has been through exactly what you are going through, but you can also rest easy knowing the staff is fully qualified to handle your file. Richard is an award-winning graduate of Humber College, where he studied immigration consultation and is a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant or RCIC for short. This means he is a legally authorized representative and has been specially trained to deal with Canadian immigration law. If yourself or one of your loved ones is planning to go through the immigration process soon, Richard has some advice for you. He stresses how important it is to ensure the correct information is being used to fill out the online forms, as that is the information that will be used on the application. Richard also says that patience is key, and how important it is to not put all of your eggs in one basket. “Immigration never goes along very fast…I think the most important thing for people to know is that it’s a 50/50 chance for everything,” Richard says. However, it is definitely worth the try. “Just take the jump.” Written by Dellia Rismay Toronto Caribbean Reporter
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entertainment
PAGE 22
Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, July 26, 2017
Licensing Your Music
DT The Artist dt@carib101.com
Entertainment As an artist, we put a lot of time and hard work into writing songs and recording. Many times though the fruits of those labors are not recouped from performing live and doing events. The amount of time put in towards trying to create a hit song, and putting a campaign behind it can be a daunting task. Because of this many artists feel stuck and frustrated, as if caught in an endless circle. After making all of that music, and investing, where do you go next? I would like to propose to you, that it is time to try licensing. Licensing is when you license your music to TV shows, commercials, movies or
video games either independently or through a publishing company. This is an area often passed over by artists when thinking of where to put their music. Through licensing, depending on the deal, you can start anywhere from $500 and again depending on the deal go all the way up to the millions of dollars range. We have all watched a television show or blockbuster movie, only to hear either one of our favorite songs or a song you’ve never heard of, by some unknown artist. As a medium licensing is one of the best ways to get your music to a much broader audience, and depending on how you play your cards, some television shows, or movie projects will sometimes have you play a small role in a scene which means screen time, and another paycheck for your appearance. All of this sounds great and potentially lucrative, but now you’re asking yourself, how do I do this? After you have written and recorded let’s say twenty tracks, then the first thing you do is organize them by topic, or potentially scenes that you could
pitch them for. The next step is to register your works with Socan for the purpose of royalty collection. After that, you will want to copyright your songs for protection before you pitch them. Once all of your songs have been protected, you need to come up with a small pitch for them, giving a visual of what scenes they might be good for. Make sure that the songs really connect with the scene you are trying to create. Now that your pitch is complete comes the real legwork, you have to start researching publishing companies, or look for a publishing deal, and if you don’t want to go that route then your other option is to watch a lot of television shows, and movies and skip to the credits and look up the “Music Supervisor” or you can contact casting companies to see who you can talk to about submitting your music and also building the relationship so that you are able to become the go to person for music.
Bandit Steals Orlando Octave’s Car. Artiste Says He Doesn’t Know What to Say Again Aba Luke
St. Vincent Crowns Problem Child Road March Champ Aba Luke
aba@carib101.com
Entertainment The excitement was enough to make it clear that this year was Problem Child’s year on the island of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Social media videos had
shown the level of mayhem the singer and songwriter had been causing when he hit the stage this season. Now, the revelry ended, a track called, ‘Never Bow’ has sealed the deal for the entertainer, making him the Road March champion of 2017. Fellow caribbean entertainers are making it known that they approve of the win. Lyrikal, Patrice Roberts and New York City’s DJ Young Chow have made it to the artiste’s social media account already, sending shouts to him on his massive win.. - EBuzzTT
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Now that you have built some relationships, and maybe even gotten some of your music onto different projects, the next step is to start going to the music conferences, and networking events to start getting bigger opportunities. As you slowly rise in a number of projects you have done, more people will start to recognize you and want to work with you. The great thing about licensing is that you get paid for your work, but on many projects, you can also make a royalty for your music. When I say royalty I mean, you can still be getting paid ten to twenty years later off of work that you are doing now. So, to recap, if you are an artist that is great with writing, and loves to record, licensing is a great way to build your name and product, and help you build a budget to do bigger projects, or even set up tours. It gives you access to big corporations and small indie projects. Time do something with those old songs.
aba@carib101.com
Entertainment Trinidad’s crime situation has struck home for another entertainment figure- this on the heels of comedian Nicki Crosby’s weekend encounter with bandits at a meat shop in Diego Martin that has since left her shaken to say the least. Orlando Octave’s Nissan Almera car was stolen by a brazen thief on Tuesday night. He said the car was being driven by someone who was permitted to do so however the vandal made off with it, in the Curepe area. Octave is the owner of a car rental and leasing company. The stolen vehicle was one of the cars he often rents or leases. He said the driver had stopped at a DVD shop to make a purchase when the car was stolen. “There is crime everywhere you know- not just in
Trinidad but it is really out of hand right now- words can’t even explain. I think it’s a spiritual thing though,” said the ‘Single’ soca star. The Rio Claro artiste has been enjoying a consistent calendar of events since Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival 2017 season placed him on a pedestal. His song has remained a powerful radio hit even post carnival and he is likely to remain in the entertainment spotlight for some time. Octave recently teamed up with organizers of the ‘Life of A Ghetto Youth’ tour- a movement that has seen the likes of Marlon Asher, Sizzla Kalonj, Izaac King, Pressure Buss Pipe and others, deliver conscious vibrations to audiences in LA, Atlanta, Miami, Rhode Island and other US locations. Asked what advice he would offer to the youths, the young artiste said there’s really nothing he could say that hasn’t already been said. As a Hebrew Israelite, Octave has dedicated himself to Yahweh and the teachings of the first five books of the Torah from which he has acquired much knowledge. In many of his social media posts, the young entertainer has said Spiritual warfare is affecting the people of the earth whether people choose to believe it or not. - EBuzzTT
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PAGE 24
travel
Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, July 26, 2017
Six Family-Friendly Ontario Getaways Nicole Deforest
nicole@carib101.com
Travel Specialist With the warm weather upon us and the kids out of school, summer is the season to explore your own backyard and travel locally and with Canada 150, there’s no better time. Whether you’re spending the weekend or simply taking a day trip, Ontario has much to offer. Here are some budget-friendly family getaways from Toronto. Toronto Be a tourist in your own city and discover the attractions you’ve been meaning to get to but haven’t had the time. Summer holidays call for a trip to Canada’s Wonderland or Medieval Times. Go up the CN Tower, visit Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, Royal Ontario Museum, Art Gallery of Ontario or St Lawrence Market, to name a few. Hike, cycle, or canoe on Toronto Island, or enjoy some down time at the beaches or harbourfront. Or, simply take a stroll through one of Toronto’s vibrant neighborhoods like the Distillery District, Chinatown, or Yonge and Dundas. Niagara Falls About two hours from Toronto, Niagara Falls offers plenty of fun activities like arcades, wax museums and haunted houses, not to mention the awe-inspiring sight of the Falls itself. Enjoy the excitement of Clifton Hill with all of its attractions like the Guinness Book of World Records and Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Take a boat cruise to get close to the Falls or board the Niagara SkyWheel observation deck to soar above it all. If you’d like to stay active, enjoy a visit to a waterpark for slides and splashes or Marineland to spot beluga whales. Plus, with historic museums, botanical gardens, and the pretty town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, this family-friendly destination suits every interest. Hamilton Just an hour from Toronto on the way to Niagara Falls, Hamilton boasts fantastic restaurants, over 100 beautiful waterfalls, and kid-friendly museums. With almost 50 km of city-owned trails, pack your running shoes and go for a hike (Dundas Peak is especially beautiful). Visit attractions like the Royal Botanical Gardens (Canada’s largest), the Art Gallery of Hamilton, Dundurn Castle, or stroll through one of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods including James Street, Locke Street or the quaint town of Dundas. You can even visit the first ever Tim Hortons.
Ottawa Visit the nation’s capital for an educational jaunt and beautiful scenery. Must-sees include Parliament Hill, Byward Market, Rideau Canal, Royal Canadian Mint and plenty of museums like the Canadian War Museum, National Gallery of Canada to admire work from the Group of Seven, and the Canadian Aviation and Space Museum. Pack a picnic and enjoy the sunshine and many green spaces as you explore all that Ottawa has to offer. Muskoka/Algonquin Park Enjoy a lakeside relaxing getaway in the Muskoka and Algonquin Park region, less than three hours from Toronto. Known for its stunning natural surroundings, waterfalls, and outdoor activities, families can visit the Muskoka Discovery Centre, enjoy a specialty kids cruise with the Muskoka Steamships and walk through parts of the Group of Seven’s outdoor gallery to see the beauty that inspired their work. Algonquin Provincial Park is the spot for camping, biking, boating, canoeing, fishing, white water rafting and wildlife watching. The Dorset Observation Tower and Lions Lookout Park both provide beautiful views of Algonquin. Stratford Located on the Avon River in southwest Ontario, this historic town is celebrated for its music and arts scene, particularly its sixmonth-long Stratford Festival. Enjoy Shakespearean plays and other performances in the various theaters, taste your way through the Stratford Chocolate Trail and relax in the beautiful parks and gardens. Check out the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, McCully’s Hill Farm, 19th-century architecture, boat tours, Shakespearean Gardens, and other attractions in this picturesque city. Wasaga Beach/Collingwood Enjoy swimming in the world’s longest freshwater beach with 14 km of sandy shores at Wasaga Beach. It’s water sports and lively promenade with shops and dining attract people from all over the province to soak up some rays. If you’re looking for something a little bit quieter, the quaint town of Collingwood is just twenty minutes away where you’ll find Blue Mountain Village loaded with family-friendly activities. Get in touch with nature and enjoy cycling, hiking, horseback riding, and ziplining while parents can relax at the famous Scandinave Spa. Beaches If it’s sun and sand you’re after, there are lots of other Ontario beaches to spend your summer besides Wasaga Beach. The second longest freshwater beach in the world is Sauble Beach, with 11 km of white sand to enjoy. We also love the beaches of Cobourg, Sandbanks Provincial Park, Port Stanley, Elora Quarry, Port Dover, Grand Bend and Turkey Point.
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Mon.-Fri. 9am to 9pm Saturday 9am to 9pm Sunday Lawrence Ave. E . 10am to 7pm
Store Hours
Frozen
$
2/
Sheppard Ave. E .
Danforth Food Market 651 Markam Rd. 416-439-6397
Cawtra Rd.
Mon.-Fri. ion 9am to 9pm Roa d Saturday 9am to 9pm Sunday Sheppard Ave. W . 10am to 8pm Finch Ave. W .
Store Hours
Pharmacy Rd.
Danforth Food Market 301 Silverstone Dr. A l b 416-740-9870
Markam Rd.
Mon.-Fri. 9am to 9pm Saturday 9am to 9pm Sunday 9 am to 7pm
Steeles Ave. W.
Martin Grove Rd.
We’re simply the best West Indian store in town.
Store Hours
Finch Ave. W.
Danforth Food Market 3701 Keele St. 416-398-8123
D r.
Store Hours
Si lv er st on e
Danforth
Keele St.
DFM
Five Locations To Serve You Better Food Market www.danforthfoodmarket.com
Specials in Effect Thu. July 27th til Wed. August 2nd, 2017.
2
69 lb
99
¢
lb
2
99 lb
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food
Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, July 26, 2017
Trini Doubles
Philip DeWar
philip@carib101.com
Caribbean Fused Cuisine Recently many of our recipes have been of the fusion variety. Taking something traditional and putting our own little spin on it. This time, however, we’re going straight Trin-idadian traditional with Doubles! The ultimate street food in the islands for being tasty, filling, cheap and it can fit in the palm of your hand! Anytime somebody from Trinidad comes through the restaurant they’ll grab an
order to see how it stacks up with their family recipe. They are pretty simple to make and you can make a whole bunch of them at once! Just be careful not to spill the filling all over your clothes, not only will it stain but you’ll be wasting all that deliciousness! You’ll Need: • • Bara Bread (can be found at most markets, we recommend Alima’s in Mississauga) • 1 can chick peas • 2 carrots, diced • 2 stalks celery, diced • 1/2 onion, diced • 3 potatoes, diced • 1TBSP turmeric • 2 TBSP curry powder • 1 TBSP black pepper • 1 TBSP salt • 2 TSP Cajun seasoning • 1.5 L water
In a large pot, put it on medium-high heat before adding some oil. Add in your carrots, celery and onion to sauté. When the onions start to go translucent, you’ve begun re-leasing all those wonderful flavors. The base of any soup or stock starts with this mix-ture, which is called mirepoix. When the mirepoix has started to cook down you can now add all the seasonings. It’s important to add them before the liquid. Reason being, when you add herbs and spic-es to a hot pan they will roast and release more flavor. Adding them to a liquid will still add flavor but you won’t get nearly the richness you will by this method. Add the water and bring it to a boil. Turn it down and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the potatoes start to soften. Because the chick peas are canned they are already soft. You don’t want to add them too early, but they do need some cooking time in
or-der to gain the flavors of the broth. With about 10 minutes left, add the chick peas and let everything simmer until the potatoes are nice and soft. Remove from the heat. By this point, there probably won’t be too much liquid left, but don’t pour it out. Instead, take a potato masher and give everything a good mash. What’s left of the liquid will soak into the potatoes and chick peas and will form a nice thick mixture. Heat up your bara bread in the oven for a minute or two. Spoon the mixture on and make a little sandwich. Done! Serve with some sweet tamarind sauce to really complete this wonderful dish.
Wednesday, July 26, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
food
Avocado Three Ways: Treat Yourself! Eartha Lowe
eartha@carib101.com
Green Healthy Eating I think it’s safe to say that the want and need to have a happy, healthy relationship with food is universal. So, what exactly should we eat? While there are no hard and fast rules, it’s all about achieving balance and finding what works best for you and your family. In recent years, avocado, a fruit I grew up eating on a regular basis along with most people I know from the Caribbean, has gained popularity as a super-fruit around the world. In fact, avocado has become so popular that earlier this year the world’s first avocado restaurant named “The Avocado Show,” opened up in Amsterdam. The appeal is a menu filled with all foods avocado including ice cream.
Optimally ripe avocados are typically known for their silky, creamy texture and rich flavors that could be described as “nutty” or “nut-like.” Here are three delicious ways to enjoy this fruit including on shrimp-ly irresistible toasts with sweet potato. Avocado, Feta, and Arugula Salad: Make an extra special dressing to lift this avocado, feta and arugula salad out of the ordinary! You’ll Need: • 2 ripe avocados • 4 cups arugula • 1 – 2 cups feta cheese • Dressing • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil • 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar • 1 shallot, finely chopped • 2 large ripe tomatoes, seeded and diced • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice • sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste Directions 1. Pit, peel and slice the avocados and arrange on a serving dish with the arugula. Top with the feta cheese. 2. Heat the olive oil and white wine vinegar
in a saucepan. Add the shallot and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the tomatoes and lemon juice, and gently heat, stirring for 30 seconds more. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and spoon over the salad.
Baked Sweet Potato, Shrimp and Avocado Toasts - You’ll Need: • 2 small sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into approx. 1/8” thick slices • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 2 avocados, must be very ripe, halved and pitted • 16 – 18 shrimp, raw, peel and deveined • 8 slices whole wheat bread, toasted • 2 limes, cut into wedges • 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, thinly sliced • 2 tablespoons cilantro leaves, thinly sliced • 3 tablespoons jalapeno pepper, seeded & minced • 1 teaspoon onion powder • 1 teaspoon paprika • Sea salt and ground black pepper to taste Directions 1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. 2. 2Place the slices of sweet potatoes on the
PAGE 29
prepared baking tray. Oil lightly with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Bake for 15 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned. 3. 3Meanwhile, sauté the shrimp in a skillet with a tablespoon of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, paprika, onion powder, and 1 tablespoon minced jalapeno. 4. Once the shrimp and sweet potato are cooked, place the flesh of half an avocado on each slice of bread and crush with a fork. Season well with salt and pepper. Drizzle with lime juice. 5. Top each slice of toast with sweet potato, then shrimp. Garnish with cilantro, mint, and jalapeno. Tips: You can save time and use precooked shrimp. Avocado Toasts Simply place the flesh of half an avocado on toasted bread and crush with a fork. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Drizzle with lime juice. Fruits are great eaten out of hand but it’s also worth knowing how to cook with them. Enjoy!
Wednesday, July 26, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
beauty
PAGE 31
Is a Makeup Artist Necessary… and do I Really Need One? Kizzy Courtney
kizzy@carib101.com
Beauty Tips
Are you a bride planning her wedding? Are you graduating? Attending prom? Maybe you need some engagement photos taken, or have a special occasion fast approaching. Well you may think a makeup artist is not needed for any of these special events in your life, and you may be right it isn’t necessary but I can assure you, you will never regret getting one. A good one! You may know plenty of tips and tricks to apply your makeup for everyday wear, but you’ll find that hiring a professional makeup artist is a critical part of your wed-
ding, photo session or special event! A makeup artist’s duties largely involve applying makeup, this can mean makeup for a client attending their prom, a special event, or their wedding. It could be makeup for television or photography makeup. Makeup for fashion show models, or performers and even character makeup for the theater. Professional makeup artists know what products to use, where to use them and in what intensity to ensure you look good face to face, as well as in your pictures. They use a wide range of products from vastly different lines to achieve a flawless look. Most products are waterproof and many are suitable for HD film/ TV, that means they will last throughout your entire day while still looking and feeling incredibly natural. A professional makeup artist has trained exclusively in the art of makeup (through a makeup artistry school and/or an internship under other pros) and will have years of experience in the field. Getting a makeup artist, you will have someone who can recommend products
and someone who will give you advice, as well as makeup tips. Most makeup artists are familiar with the most popular types of both pro and drugstore makeup, they will have an in-depth understanding of application techniques, and know how to use different types of makeup i.e. liquid foundation, powder foundation, cream foundation, etc. Makeup artists will also understand color theory and with this knowledge, they can effortlessly match skin tones to complementary colors. It takes an artful eye to see the beauty and potential in each face. A pro makeup artist is not only trained to apply flawless, enduring makeup, they are also skilled in the art of making you feel at ease in every aspect of the process from detailed wedding day timelines to working with you to create a stunning makeup style that will transcend time. If you are planning a wedding or having some pictures taken, then it’s a good idea to have an expert opinion on a day that can be so exciting and emotional. You may be too nervous to apply your makeup properly
within the tight time frame of your wedding or photo session. A professional makeup artist will take more time and be more purposeful in applying makeup than you would at home; they will come to your location, be punctual, professional, and efficient to ensure you are ready with time to spare. Years from now when you look back at your wedding photos you want to be sure you looked your very best; your dress was beautiful, not a hair was out of place and your makeup was flawless. The same makeup will not produce the same results on all face shapes, skins types, skin maturities, or complexions. A professional makeup artist will know that to create a personalized makeup application for each individual client is essential, and this will have come from hands-on practice as well as theoretical training and experience. Your wedding or photo session is your mini celebrity moment and you should look and feel as amazing as those stars. Hiring a professional makeup artist is one way to guarantee that!
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Wednesday, July 26 , 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
health
Interesting Facts About Lyme Disease Allison Brown
allison@carib101.com
Health Care What do Shania Twain, Avril Lavigne, Alec Baldwin, and former US president George W. Bush have in common? They were all afflicted with Lyme Disease at some point in their life! The disease is irrespective of person. This article will highlight facts about Lyme Disease. Do you enjoy the outdoors and being in nature? Do you like camping, hiking or biking on trails in the woods? Well, if you do, be mindful of black-legged deer ticks. Ticks bites can occur during mild winters with little snow and during spring, summer and fall. People who like to participate in golfing, hunting, camping, fishing, or hiking should take precautions to prevent tick bites. Lyme disease is an infection caused by Borrelia Burgdorferi bacteria and it’s transmitted by ticks that suck the blood of humans and other animals. Interestingly, a tick looks like a small flat watermelon seed. In 2009 there were 128 cases of Lyme disease and in 2015 a staggering 700 cases were reported according to the Public Health Agency of Canada. What are the signs and symptoms
of Lyme Disease you might ask? The signs and symptoms of Lyme Disease may include; a rash,(sometimes shaped like a bull’s eye) also known as (Erythema Migrans (EM rash)), fever, chills, headache, fatigue, muscle and joint aches, and or swollen lymph nodes can occur anywhere from 3-30 days after a bite from an infected tick. Flu like symptoms can occur in the early stage of the disease progressing to more serious symptoms sometimes weeks after the bite. According to the Government of Canada website, if left untreated, more severe symptoms may occur and can last from months to years. Severe symptoms may include; severe headaches, additional EM skin rashes, facial paralysis (i.e. Bell’s palsy), intermittent muscle, joint, tendon and bone aches, heart disorders (heart palpitations, abnormal heartbeat), known as lyme carditis, neurological disorders (dizziness, mental confusion or inability to think clearly, and memory loss, inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, nerve pain, numbness or tingling in the hands or feet), arthritis with severe joint pain and swelling, particularly the knees and less commonly in other joints such as the ankle, elbow and wrists. In rare cases, Lyme Disease can lead to death usually because of complications involving infection of the heart. Since symptoms vary from one person to the next, diagnosis can be difficult. Lab tests and a positive history of tick exposure may aid in diagnosis. Most cases of Lyme Disease can be effectively treated with 2 to 4 weeks of antibiotics such
as doxycycline, amoxicillin, or cefuroxime axetil. Doxycycline should not be used to treat Lyme Disease in pregnant women as it may affect the unborn child. Depending on the symptoms and when a person was diagnosed, a longer course or repeat treatment with antibiotics is required. Some people experience symptoms that continue more than six months after treatment. Use bug spray containing DEET or Icaridin on your skin and clothing (always follow the directions on the label), remove ticks within 24-36 hours of a tick being attached to the skin, and/or do a tick check of outdoor gear and or pets are only a few ways to prevent Lyme Disease. Closer to home, mow the lawn regularly to keep the grass short, remove leaf litter, brush and weeds at the edge of the lawn and around stone walls and wood piles, stack firewood neatly and in a dry area, put barriers to exclude deer from around your home and seal stone walls and small openings to discourage rodent activity, place children’s recreational playground sets, patios and decks away from the yard edges and trees. Place them on a wood chip or mulch foundation and in a sunny location, if possible, and/or treat pets that are commonly exposed to ticks with oral or topic acaricides (as recommended by a veterinarian) as they could carry ticks into the home. As we are well into the summer months, enjoy the weather but be vigilant in protecting against tick bites. Thank you for the opportunity to share information this week on Lyme Disease.
Healthy Eating Can be as Simple as Re-stocking Your Fridge
Warmer weather is here and many of us are looking to kick-start healthy eating plans. Here are some tips to get you on the right track. 1. Nutritional specialists say the first step to kicking those bad eating habits is to purge your fridge of unhealthy options and guilty pleasure temptations like ice cream, sugary drinks and processed, packaged foods. 2. Once you’ve removed the clutter and junk, organize your fridge and stock it with healthy options like fruit, veggies, nuts and cheese. For easy snacking, pre-
cut your vegetables or make a fruit bowl, then place at eye level. When nutritious snacks are visible as soon as you open your fridge, you are more likely to make a healthier choice when hunger strikes. 3. An expert tip on packing produce is to make sure your refrigerator has enough storage space. Wholesome foods stay fresher for longer periods when your fridge is organized and tidy. If you are in the market for a new fridge, look for one that has ample storage space like the LG InstaView Door-in-Door refrigerator. This fridge has more usable space than the average with the ice system located
on the door. 4. For beverages, keep a water jug frontand-centre. Need some flavour? Infuse water with lemon, strawberries and cucumber, or make homemade iced teas. Learn to stay hydrated without the sugar or calories found in soft drinks and juices. 5. Finally, to avoid those nagging temptations, store your indulgences in an opaque storage container and push to the back of your fridge. Out of sight, out of mind. - News Canada
4 tips to help your kids stay active this summer
During the school break, most parents are looking for ways to get their kids enjoying the great outdoors. Before the final bell rings, here are four tips to keep your little ones active this vacation.
1. Take advantage of the nice weather. When it is -20C outside, it’s only natural to want to stay indoors. But in the spring and summer months, it’s time to break out of those habits — throw a frisbee in the backyard, take your dog to the local dog park, or walk instead of driving when running nearby errands.
2. Play as a family. Kids learn by example, so if you want them to get active, you need to as well. From an impromptu game of tag after dinner to signing up for a family triathlon, the options are endless. 3. Join a local team. Summer is prime time to join a local team, as there are many summer leagues with schedules in line with school vacation. If your child lacks confidence in the classic gym class sports, look for options they haven’t tried before, like beach volleyball or lacrosse.
4. Learn a new sport. If your kids aren’t quite ready for the competitive sport world, start with lessons. The summer is a great time to enrol kids in swimming lessons — with outdoor pools open, kids can learn water safety, an essential life skill, in a sunny, open-air environment. For parents worried about the expenses associated with organized teams or lessons, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities can help by assisting with the costs of registration, equipment and even transportation. - News Canada
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yoga
Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, July 26, 2017
It’s All in Your Head Trisha Curling
trishacurling@carib101.com
Yoga Where does our yoga practice really start? Is it finding the right teacher? style? studio? There are arguably many aspects we can choose from to discuss where and/or how our yoga practice truly starts. I think that the first place to look at is truly inside of our heads. The decision starts here and it’s not always an easy one. We might be afraid to start because we simply don’t know enough and are potentially telling ourselves that we can’t do it or,
we may have a desire to start, but our past/ current injuries and pain are holding us back. Let’s look at some ways we might be able to overcome these potential obstacles. There is so much power in visualization and the way we speak to ourselves. Sometimes we are our own worst enemies when it comes to talking ourselves out of things. Starting our own yoga practice can be as simple as just making the decision to experiment with a few different classes and/ or styles of yoga to see what resonates with us. Taking a friend along is also helpful. Even if we make the decision to go alone, we might surprise ourselves with the new friendships that can develop. Sometimes building a friendship when we are starting from a common place that is new, is exciting in itself. I am fortunate to have a wonderful “yogini friendship” that developed when I started my practice. This is the beauty of a class environment in yoga. One of the strongest issues that may
prevent us from starting our yoga journey and receiving its’ benefits, may not even be that we don’t know where to go or who to start with as a teacher. Past and/or current experience with injury or pain might be stopping us. We may think that we are no longer capable because of what we are experiencing physically. The truth is, once we find a safe place to practice with a qualified teacher, we can actually learn how to rewire our brains to send signals to the appropriate parts of the body to work more efficiently in order to help us to reduce our pain patterns and actually learn how to create better body awareness and self-study. In yoga, we are really working through the process of connecting or reconnecting with ourselves in a meaningful way, both physically and mentally. Finding a knowledgeable yoga teacher that can help us with slowing down in order to reconnect with parts of the body that may have “turned off” for example, as a result of under use, poor movement patterns, or even due to a severe
degree of tightness may actually help us to reduce or even remove pain altogether. The source of our knee pain, for example, is most likely an issue that stems from another part of the body altogether. For example, having weak hip muscles that are responsible for external rotation (gluteus maximus, piriformis, quadratus femoris, to name a few) can cause alignment issues in the patella (knee cap) with the femur (upper thigh bone). This may lead to increased degeneration of the cartilage in this area, therefore causing knee pain. In our yoga practice, when we slow down and begin to make the connection in our “heads” or better yet make better brain connections to these areas, we can teach our bodies to begin to strengthen and/or fire these areas again, so that we are not putting stress in the wrong areas of the body. Instead of “getting out of our heads” let’s get in them in order to help us move with more ease and purpose.
Wednesday, July 26, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
life
PAGE 39
Steps in Family Law Proceedings-What You Need to Know Valerie Dye
valerie@carib101.com
Legal Matters In Ontario, when a family law matter is brought before the court it does not automatically go to trial. Various steps are taken by the Court in an effort to bring about an early resolution to family law cases so that litigants will be spared the expense and time of going through a trial. In Ontario most family law cases do not go to trial. The first step in most family law proceedings in Ontario is the case confer-
ence. This is the most important step in the family law proceedings as it allows the parties to go before the Judge and hear the Judge’s views on their matter. The case conference allows parties to have an idea of the strengths or weakness of their case and to explore the chances of settling the case. Other purposes of the case conference as outlined in Rule 17 (4) of the Family Law Rules include, ensuring that parties make disclosure of relevant evidence, noting admissions made by the parties and setting dates for the next step in the proceedings. It is important to note that at case conferences the court cannot make a substantive order unless both parties consent to that order. This underscores the fact that the main aim behind the holding of a case conference is to allow for an early resolution of the dispute. If parties can arrive at a resolution at the case conference then a final order may be made and the matter will not proceed further. If a party wants an order to be made
he or she may choose to bring a motion after a case conference has been held. Unlike the case conference the court can make orders at a motion without the consent of both parties. Except for cases of emergency, a motion can only be brought after a case conference has been held. If parties cannot resolve their issues at a case conference or at a motion the next step in the court proceedings would be a settlement conference. Again the court will try to facilitate a settlement of the dispute. Parties will narrow the issues for trial and ensure that all disclosure has been made. The main item for disclosure in family law proceedings is the financial statement which must be filed by both parties. It is important for both parties to make full disclosure of their financial standings including assets, liabilities, earnings and debts. One of the most important outcomes of the settlement conference is that parties will obtain the judge’s view on what
Black and Caribbean Heritage 101
Kathy McDonald kathy@carib101.com
Education Summer is a great time for students to get rejuvenated. I would like to propose a few activities that will not only rejuvenate but will educate your children as well. The following five trips are adventures that each child of Black and Caribbean ancestry should partake in at least once. The following six cultural pilgrimages of a life time include but not limited to Carnival, Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Chatham, The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History and The National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC). First and foremost right in our own backyard is Kiddies Carnival. Bring your children out to witness the pageantry and the culture and get a taste of what mas is like. Visit an established, large mas camp so the kids can get a sense of the dedication and commitment to the art of a Caribbean Carnival. Why not take in Pan Alive. I am sure that Winston Spree Simon never envisioned that this creation would be such a worldwide
success. Further down the 401, you can visit Uncle Tom’s Cabin Historic Site, an openair museum and Black History Centre near Dresden, Ontario, Canada ”that includes the home of Josiah Henson, a former slave, author, abolitionist, and minister”. Henson was the inspiration for the main character in Harriet Beecher’s novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin. The museum sits on part of the original Dawn Settlement which was established in 1841 as a community for escaped slaves. The site has several other facilities including the “Josiah Henson Interpretive Centre; which has artifacts related to abolition and Henson’s life; The North Star Theater offers educational films; Underground Railroad Freedom Gallery Harris House - one of the oldest houses in the area, and one of several final stops on the Underground Railroad; Henson Family Cemetery - adjacent to the church, it includes a Josiah Henson memorial stone and National Historic Plaque. In less than three hours residents of the GTA could be in Chatham. “In the early 1800’s five Black families settled along McGregor’s Creek in the tiny town of Chatham, then known as “the Forks”. The Village soon became a haven for runaway slaves and by 1850, its population was one-third Black. Once here, Blacks in Chatham thrived in business, education, medicine, sport, and literary and cultural arts. News of their success attracted Blacks to the area from across North America. The history of Blacks in early Chatham is not only of local significance; the
years of Black contribution and participation in Southwestern Ontario left a fundamental impression on the national landscape.” “The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is a museum in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio based on the history of the Underground Railroad. Opened in 2004, the Center also paid tribute to all efforts to “abolish human enslavement and secure freedom for all people.” It is one of a new group of “museums of conscience” in the United States, along with the Museum of Tolerance, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, and the National Civil Rights Museum. The Center offers insight into the struggle for freedom in the past, in the present, and for the future, as it attempts to challenge visitors to contemplate the meaning of freedom in their own lives. Its location recognizes the significant role of Cincinnati in the history of the Underground Railroad, as thousands of slaves escaped to freedom by crossing the Ohio River from the southern slave states. Many found refuge in the city, some staying there temporarily before heading north to gain freedom in Canada.” Just standing inside the slave pen is a “surreal experience” as described by my friend Linden King. Located in Detroit Michigan a trip to the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History is a perfect day trip. ”Founded in 1965, it holds the world’s largest permanent exhibit on African American culture. Some of the major collections include the Blanche Coggin Underground Railroad Collection and the Harriet Tubman Museum
the outcome of the case is likely to be. The judge may also provide guidance and suggestions to the parties in an effort to help them settle the disputes. Obviously, since both the case conference and the settlement conference judges are involved in helping parties navigate the issues and the possibility of settlement, neither judge will be the trial judge if the case should go to trial. Nonetheless, the settlement conference judge is able to use his or her experience as a judge to provide guidance as to how the trial judge is likely to decide the case. Quite a number of cases are settled at this stage. However, if parties fail to arrive at a settlement the judge will schedule a trial management conference which is essentially preparation for trial. Trials can be quite costly and it for this reason that judges and some lawyers encourage parties to explore the possibility of settling their issues either at the case conference or at the settlement conference stage.
Collection. Also in the museum is an interactive exhibit called And Still We Rise Our Journey through African American History and Culture, seven exhibition areas devoted to African Americans and their lives. NMAAHC is a Smithsonian Institution museum that opened September 24th, 2016. It sits on the National Mall in Washington D.C. “It has close to 37,000 objects in its collection related to such subjects as community, family, the visual and performing arts, religion, civil rights, slavery, and segregation.” Be warned they are sold out and taking bookings for November so plan ahead for this escapade. I have visited several websites and have complied succinct descriptions of six adventures Black and Caribbean children should visit. Remember the words of George Santayana “Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” While the ultimate trip would be to visit the slave’s outpost in Ghana and Senegal’s Gorée Island Door of no return, I think most readers of this column could begin with the five destinations cited in this article. As the Honorable Marcus Garvey said, “A people without knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.” So, I say to you my readers: give your kids roots, they are essential in anchoring them in this world. So, journey with my family as we make our cultural pilgrimage. Walk Good, Belle Marché
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community
Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, July 26, 2017
What Will It Say On Your Tombstone When You Die? Simone Smith
simone@carib101.com
A Better Tomorrow Great week to you Toronto! How has the summer been for you so far? For me, it has been hectic, frustrating, annoying at times, and reflective. I have found the time, to take some time and really reflect on all that is currently happening in my life. I have also had an opportunity to work within the community and of course gather a greater understanding as to how I, Simone Jennifer Smith can lend a hand. Last weekend, I had an opportunity to speak at an event put on by Faith Filled Empowered Entrepreneurs called Cosmopreneur. This event was hosted by Janet Brown who is the founder of F.F.E.E, and I appreciate what she is doing because she is a woman who has suffered losses, yet she refuses to let those losses keep her from doing what she needs to do. F.F.E.E is committed to the
unity of people especially women; the idea of launching F.F.E.E came to her during a time when she was pursuing her passion for opening and running her own restaurant. Alongside Patty Randhawa, a financial advisor, and health and wellness expert, and Janet Brown, I was able to address a group of women and men about how to have faith and determination regardless of the situation that they encounter. I had been thinking about what I was going to talk about all week, finally, it dawned on me that I had to start looking back into my past to find a topic. I decided to draw from my own personal self-discovery file, and this is how I came up with my topic, “You do not have the Monopoly on Suffering!” What does this mean? Well, I will say this; we all go through horrible ordeals. We all suffer loss; the problem that occurs is that many of us get stuck in our suffering and we develop tunnel vision when it comes to our future. It is easy to fall into this; believe me, when I say, I have been there before. So how does this look? It can appear differently for each person. I asked the group a question, to begin with; what will it say on your tombstone when you die? I had them think about this for a moment before I gave my answer. I wanted the audience to begin to put themselves in a reflective state. Anytime I give a talk, the purpose is always a reflection. I
Self Mastery
Colleen Lindberg
colleen@carib101.com
Personal Development So, it’s been documented that it takes anywhere from six to ten years, or an equivalent of 10,000 hours to master something. Have you ever heard that before? If this is true, how committed are you to mastering something? Maybe it’s a sport, like Tiger Woods and golf, practicing for hours a day to master a craft. It might mean for a specific type of physical activity, like martial arts or yoga. Maybe it’s in specific learning when it comes to a career choice or different types of trades that you want to go into. With that being said; 10,000 hours of self-mastery, that is
focused time on something that you want to learn more about and actually master. So, what does mastering something actually really mean? It means being passionate about a cause, it means knowing the ins and outs of whatever that subject matter is, or that profession. It means creating and being able to answer any type of question when it comes to that type of subject. I ask you today, “What is it that you’re trying to master?” Is it a positive mindset? Is it a new skill set? Is it some business skill that you’re trying to master? All of us are probably trying to refine something in our lives. Whether it’s even the way that we read books, or to the way that we communicate with our partners or our kids. All of that brings in attention from a mastery side. So, again I ask, “What is it that you’re mastering?” “Where is your focus?” And if you want some things to change in your life, are you putting in the time and effort to make sure that you are mastering that
want people to really take stock in their lives and think. My answer to the question was, “Here rests Simone. Don’t cry for me; remember me for who I was!” This is the type of question that is meant to snap you out of your current state of thought. No one likes to think about death, but for some reason, death happens to be the best motivator. Regardless of what we are suffering from, when the idea of death comes to mind, a clock starts to tick in our minds; this clock indicates to you that you have to make a move in your life regardless of your current suffering. I put the same question out to the reader today, what will it say on your tombstone when you die? When you answer this question, I want you to be aware of what is happening inside of you. What are your thoughts at this moment? What are you feeling? We have to acknowledge the cognitive as well as the physiological and behavioral. Stay mindful of these thoughts as you go through your day to day. You will have questions that arise, as well as new discoveries about yourself. I am inviting everyone to join me on a path of discovery. I want you to read my words, but focus on certain things that are occurring within you. At times it will be uncomfortable, but discomfort means growth. Suffering will come and go; so will life. Remember that!
skill set? Rome wasn’t built in a day they said. Every single hour and every single minute that you’re exerting towards mastering whatever in your life it is that you are looking to master are key components to the growth and development of that skillset. Sometimes it isn’t easy, sometimes it’s so much easier to give up… I say… continue to keep focused on those areas. Keep moving through the things that you want to learn and to keep the focus on self-mastering that task or skill set. In the end, when you get there and you know all about that subject, and it is who you are, you’ll look back and go, “Wow, all of those small steps that I took to get here were worth it and I’m so happy that I committed the time to make sure that I mastered that skill set.” Just a reminder it doesn’t always have to be hours on end in a day, it could be fifteen minutes here, fifteen minutes there that over time will add up. So, best of luck in your self-mastery and moving yourself forward this week. I look forward to seeing your results.
Wednesday, July 26, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
5 Tips to Make Your Commute a Greener One
Environmental awareness in our driving not only helps the health of our planet, but also the health of our wallets. “Canadians are becoming more environmentally conscious, and an easy way to lower our eco-footprint is by maintaining our vehicles,” explains Darryl Croft, OK Tire automotive expert. “Also, keeping a few simple green driving tips in mind can help reduce your fuel consumption”.
filters, brake pads and spark plugs. 3. Avoid idling or revving to save fuel. When you are stopped, switch off your engine. Revving is an equally environmentally toxic habit as it uses unnecessary fuel. Driving at a safe, moderate speed is the best way to save fuel.
1. Travel light. Roof racks, excessive cargo and heavy vehicles all add to fuel consumption, which in turn contributes to air pollution. A good rule of thumb for reducing your weight on the road is if you don’t need it, don’t bring it. Roof racks also increase wind resistance, making your vehicle work harder to maintain speed.
4. Check your tires regularly. Once every week or two, check that your tires are sufficiently inflated. Under-inflated tires wear faster, creating drag and greater fuel consumption. Alignment is important as this can also create a drag on your vehicle. This should be checked by a certified automotive technician at least once a year, every time new tires are installed, or if you feel your vehicle is pulling to the side.
2. Keep your vehicle maintained. Ensuring that your vehicle is in peak condition and functioning at its most efficient will help keep your carbon footprint down. Have the basic maintenance items checked and tuned up as needed on a regular basis. This includes tire pressure, fluid levels, battery, air
5. Buy eco-friendly tires. An energyefficient tire is designed to maximize gas mileage by low rolling resistance, returning energy back to the tire and reducing heat generation. Eco-friendly tread compounds also reduce particle emissions. - News Canada
automotive
PAGE 41
Clever Warm Weather Car Hacks For Summer Road Trips
Warmer temperatures and sunnier, longer days mean now’s the perfect time to hit the road and check out a destination across the country or a few hours away from home. But after many months of cold weather and messy roads, our cars have taken a beating. Here are some maintenance tips to make sure your ride is up for the drive:
1. Today’s engines sustain an incredible amount of pressure, so your number one priority is to change the oil. Under these conditions, you need stronger engine oil to ensure maximum engine performance and longevity. Try the Castrol Edge line, which offers better performance in extreme temperatures, reduces metal to metal contact, is stronger against viscosity breakdown, and decreases engine deposit formation. 2. Fresh oil deserves a fresh oil filter. Synthetic oil is already very clean and a clean oil filter helps to ensure that any particles are filtered out to further protect your engine surfaces from wear. 3. Don’t forget basics like topping up the fluids, vacuuming out the cabin and
trunk, and wiping down all surfaces with a car interior cleaner. 4. Many drivers forget that even in summer, wiper blades are a safety consideration. If the wipers are in bad shape, it can be dangerous. The change of season is a great time to ditch those beat-up wipers for a clear view of the road. 5. Give the engine a good degrease. “If you pop the hood on your car, chances are you’ll see a ton of dirt, grease and maybe even some dead leaves. You’ll want the engine compartment to be as clean as the rest of the car,” recommends DJ Kennington, a pro race car driver who also loves to indulge in family road trips. 6. Canadian seasons are harsh on your car, so be sure to clean and wax the surface for extra protection. The brake dust and residual road salt can ruin the rims and even the seals on your performance tires. Give the rims a thorough cleaning, and if you’re changing from winter to summer tires, make sure to reseal them to avoid slow leaks. - News Canada
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business
Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, July 26, 2017
Innovation Is Expanding The World Of Investing
If your image of investing is of a world stuck in the past, it’s time to take another look. Rapidly growing investment choices and technology-based solutions are making it easier for every customer to find investments that fit their needs. Investment funds based on stocks and bonds are still the choice of many investors. But today, you can augment traditional choices with socially responsible mutual funds that reflect your own values whether your concerns are environmental, geopolitical or centred on fair trade and employment practices. A growing range of active and passively managed exchange-traded funds can be matched with mutual funds to create a balanced portfolio that better position investors to weather the ups and downs of the capital markets. Technology is making investing
more accessible than ever before. You can now invest online and complete some transactions through mobile applications. Company and independent blogs, calculators, and mock portfolios let you increase your knowledge and confidence before you put your savings on the line. Firms and advisors are using technology to streamline the investment process, allowing them to spend more time educating and coaching their clients. For investors who don’t want advice but want help choosing their investments, new digital advice platforms – sometimes called robo firms – will recommend a pre-selected portfolio for you. Check out all your options – do your research and speak to a trusted financial advisor to determine the approach that works best for you. - News Canada
DIY Investing: 3 Things You Need To Consider
Investing is more complex than meets the eye but for some of us, it’s an opportunity to put our financial knowledge to work on our own behalf. If you have the time and effort to focus on your options, then do-it-yourself (DIY) investing could be right for you. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Know yourself. When it comes to your money, it’s easy to get emotional. Are you the type of person who will remain calm during constant swings in the stock market? Will you carefully consider the long-term effects of a negative news story rather than selling your investment at the first sign of a downturn? Successful DIY investing takes work, discipline and confidence when it comes to financial decision-making. 2. Focus on the end game. Investing is a marathon where slow and steady wins the race. If you choose to go it alone, be prepared to spend the time and do your research
on the companies, industries and funds you invest in. Match the pros by making a savings plan, honestly assessing how much financial risk you are comfortable with, and setting aside time each week to do your homework. Market downturns and upswings happen, but a sound plan and a portfolio that covers a range of industries and geographic locations will usually stand the test of time. 3. Consider alternative ways to purchase funds. You can buy investment funds in person at your local bank branch, from an investment advisor or through a growing range of online options. If you don’t want to go entirely DIY, ease into it. Working with an advisor can be an effective way to receive guidance while staying in the driver’s seat as you grow your knowledge and confidence. Many long-term DIY investors balance their own skills with advised investing. - News Canada
Wednesday, July 26, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
TAURUS
Looking for more attention and action? Look to Mars, the sun, and the new moon in Leo to put it into play. These put an added spotlight on success ratios, the heart, love, fun, and the best the season has to offer. Thursday, Monday, and Wednesday rev up something fresh. Mercury into Virgo, starting Tuesday, favours cleanup and fix-it projects.
A brainstorm, a conversation, or something more can strike it hot Thursday. One way or another, Thursday’s sun/Uranus gets it/ you going. In fact, every day through next Wednesday dishes up something fresh. The new moon shines on the home and family front. Mercury into Virgo, starting Tuesday, helps you to make the most of what you have to work with.
April 19 - May 20
GEMINI
CANCER
Thursday could start with the need for extra effort or patience, but it isn’t likely to finish that way. Sun/Uranus stirs it up; one thing leads to another. Friday comes and it goes. Saturday onward, you’ll pick up a stronger signal and a better momentum. Monday, you’re quick on the uptake. Tuesday/ Wednesday, there’s catch-up to do, stuff to fix or to work out.
Mars leaves your sign on Thursday and the sun does so on Saturday. They aren’t deserting you, though, quite the contrary. Along with Sunday’s new moon in Leo, watch for this next week to keep you/it going strong. Spur of the moment can deliver some of the best ideas or opportunities. Leo month sets optimum conditions for making the most of it.
LEO
VIRGO
Birthday month can be an outstanding one, especially so if your birthday falls on one of the two eclipses in August. Mars in Leo, starting Thursday, and the sun in Leo, starting Saturday, don’t plan to waste any time. They’ll tee up by next Wednesday, but there are many strike-it-hot moments from now until then. Go while the getting is good!
This next week is ideal for taking a break and/or for a switch-it-up. While Mars, the sun, and the new moon crave more quality time to simply enjoy, a restless edge prevents you from sitting still for long. As of Tuesday/ Wednesday, you’ll gain a major battery recharge. Watch for the Virgo moon, Mercury into Virgo, and sun/Mars to light a fresh fuse.
May 20 - June 21
July 22 - August 22
June 21 - July 22
August 22 - September 22
LIBRA
SCORPIO
Thursday/Friday, the flow, the connecting, and the getting are good. Starting Thursday, Mars into Leo infuses more life into ambitions and prospects. The sun and the new moon in Leo put an added spotlight on desire, reward, and getting the most out of it. Tuesday/Wednesday, Mercury into Virgo sets you onto task. There’s something to fix, upgrade, top up, or work through.
A new career and/or personal life chapter is well in the works. Whether there’s an actual event to mark it or it is a feel, an attitude, or a shift of consciousness, Mars on the move, the sun’s trek into Leo, and Sunday’s new moon now set the reality into its next play. Monday through Wednesday, one thing quickly leads to the next.
September 22 - October 23
Down 1) Big tournament every four years 2) South American powerhouse 4) Last line of defence 5) Don’t use these 7) First World Cup champs in 1930 9) Spiky shoes 10) Name of the game in Europe 11) Another name for the field 14) Protected with pads
PAGE 43
ARIES
March 20 - April 19
Across 3) ____ League Soccer 4) Ball or boot prize 6) World governing body 8) Goal scorer 12) Caution card colour 13) English ____ League 15) That’s using your noggin! 16) Reigning World Cup champs 17) Kick out of the air
fun
October 23 - November 22
SAGITTARIUS
CAPRICORN
Something social and spur-of-the-moment suits you quite well Thursday. Through the start of September, Mars in Leo keeps you well on your game. The sun and new moon in Leo also set the dial to taking it up a great big notch and making the most of it. Enjoy yourself or set yourself to task—either way, it’s all to the plus.
If you can take care of two things at once on Thursday/Friday, all the better. Want more? Go for it. Mars, the sun, and the new moon in Leo put a much bigger spotlight on selfinterest, personal satisfaction, money, and love. Tuesday/Wednesday, you’ll cut to the chase or hone in on it with better precision.
November 22 - December 21
December 21 - January 19
AQUARIUS
PISCES
Thursday/Friday, your timing is good. Now through mid–next week, Mars, the sun, and the new moon top you up with fresh fuel. Make the most of the moment. Tuesday/ Wednesday can drum up something more. Mercury into Virgo helps you to make an improvement, fill in a missing blank, or score a better deal. Wednesday calls for assertiveness.
Play host, enjoy time with friends, company, or loved ones Thursday/Friday. As of this weekend and into next week, you are likely to feel the switch as Mars, the sun, and the new moon light up in Leo. While the season’s best continues to call, there’s work to be done. Sunday through Wednesday, get on it.
January 19 - February 18
February 18 - March 19
FOR SALE FOR SALE
FORWANTED SALE HELP
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WEST INDIAN CONGREGATION Emmanuel. Mission Church of the Nazarene. Service at 1.30 p.m.1875 Sheppard Ave. West, Toronto, ON, M3L 1Y6 For info call Rev. Jerold Boodhoo 416-303-7163
SUNDAY SERVICE: Fountain of Truth Ministries Pastor: Reverend Maxine Campbell Worship Address: 2170 Kipling Avenue, Etobicoke Percy Johnson School – Cafeteria Sundays: 10.am – 2. pm Teaching, Worship, Ministering For info call: 416 748 0211 MISSISSAUGA: Mississauga Missionary Baptist Church invites you to join us at 1620 Dundas St West, each Sunday at 10am for praise, worship and in-depth Bible teaching with Pastor Sean, 416-219-9137
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MARIA ALEXANDER, Bsn., MPH Travel Professional
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PAGE 48
finance
Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, July 26, 2017
Understanding Your Financial Net Worth Fazaad Bacchus
fazaad@carib101.com
Finance Specialist Your assets are referred to as things that you own. These things can be divided basically into two categories, financial assets, and non-financial assets. These two carry a very important distinction as they are directly related to your cash flow and liquidity which we will discuss in the next issue. For now, let’s discuss financial assets; these are mainly your cash and your cash equivalent accounts. Therefore, any savings account or any nonregistered accounts will count for cash or cash equivalent. Not all financial assets can be quickly converted into cash without suffering a significant loss. Take for example an RRSP, taxes which have to be paid can take a significant chunk out of it. These would now be referred to as your investment assets. They
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typically include your TFSA, RRSP, RESP any bonds or stocks, annuities or life insurance cash values, especially on universal life policies. Now to look at non-financial assets; typically your primary residence albeit your most valuable asset is not a financial asset. Any other real estate, cottage, vehicles, equity held in corporations and even land are categorized as non-financial assets. Personal assets such as jewelry, clothes, paintings, tools and the like are still non-financial. Some non-financial assets are meant to be investment assets as well. Take for example you have a rental property, it is non-financial but it is providing a cash flow. What are your liabilities? Well, the first places to look at are where you have borrowed money from and whom you owe. Whenever you borrow you incur a debt and this debt needs to be repaid, examples are credit cards, installment loans, mortgages, furniture loans, vacation loans etc, these are the most common type of liabilities. Some liabilities are tied to investments. For example, someone may borrow ten thousand dollars on a leveraged investment paying 3% interest to the bank while earning 5% at the investment company. Or they may have bought a rental
property on a mortgage but are receiving a monthly income that is servicing the loan. So not all liabilities mean bad news, however, if you buy a depreciating asset and you owe more than it is valued, then that is bad news. To calculate your net worth, simply take all of your assets, list them on one side of the page and take all of your liabilities and list them on the other side of the page and the formula is total assets minus total liabilities equals your net worth. Why is calculating your net worth important you ask, because you ideally should be increasing your net worth year after year. Certainly you would not like to see your bank account drop in value, and so shouldn’t your net worth. What if your net worth is negative? This is a serious position to be in as someone may be responsible for paying off your debts should you become sick, disabled or even die. Financial advisors help you calculate your net worth, analyze your cash flow and calculate your dependent’s income needs. If you haven’t done this exercise as yet, it might be very useful to you as a measure of protecting your family’s well-being and making sure that if something happens to you that you don’t leave your family with too much liability that they couldn’t handle.
Group Benefits Save You Money Andrew Stewart
andrew@carib101.com
Family Advisor This particular article is an incredibly special one for me, not necessarily because of the topic but because of the timing of it. I am enormously happy to share with you that on July 15th, 2017 I had the enjoyment of contributing to the birth of my second daughter. The experience of seeing her born and take her first breath of air was indescribable. You see my first daughter was born by C-section so all I heard was her first cry. This time I was front and center working with the nurses and doctors through the entire process. My baby arrived alert and awake and a healthy 6lbs 11oz. As the nurses placed her on my fiancé’s chest still living from the cord she wept and I smiled. Only when the cord had stopped pulsing completely I was asked would I like to cut it. I remember thinking about the stories you hear about babies being born at home, in a car or even an airplane and I thought how? Being at the hospital was a comforting feeling. Then it was time to wait for the blood test, observation, and healing. We had chosen to recover in a private room. If not for group health insurance provided by her employer the cost would have had to be paid out of pocket. Canada’s provincial and federal health insurance only covers standard
ward accommodation (four beds to a room) through Canada’s Medicare program. If you prefer to stay in a private or semi-private room during your hospital stay, a premium rate will be charged to you or your insurance company. During admission or pre-admission you are asked to make a request for accommodation. Your choices Include: • •
Private (one bed per room, private bathroom), $275 per day Semi-Private (two beds per room, shared bathroom for two patients), $235 per day
Being a family advisor, I have consultations with clients about their group insurance coverage if they are lucky to have it or about purchasing private health insurance coverage. With so much information available about OHIP, group health insurance, and private health insurance, it’s no surprise that some misconceptions exist. Here are some misconceptions about private health insurance: 1. I have OHIP, so I don’t need private health insurance; Depending on your health care needs, you will likely need to pay out of pocket for prescription drugs, dental care, various forms of therapy and rehabilitation services, medical equipment and more. Most notably, prescription drugs, dental care, ambulance transportation, registered therapists, medical equipment and vision care for adults 18 to 64 years of age are not covered by government insurance plans in Canada. Private health insurance ensures you don’t pay out of pocket for medical care that OHIP does not cover. 2. I am healthy, so I don’t need private
health insurance; Even young and healthy people could develop a serious illness, get injured or have an accident. Private health insurance coverage protects you from the financial burden of the medical care you need. 3. I can’t afford private health insurance; Cost is always a consideration when people explore their health care options. Depending on your relative health and age, you can choose the specific area of coverage that means the most to you for your health insurance plan. If you’re married or in a common-law relationship, pay attention to how your health and dental plans can complement each other. Families with separate workplace plans may not realize they have overlapping coverage and can make claims on both for spouses and children. Often, individual plans will only cover a portion of certain medical expenses like dental surgery or prescription drugs—but by taking advantage of your partner’s benefits, chances are you’ll wind up with close to 100% coverage. There are rules about which insurance company you submit to first, though. You must first file a claim with your own insurance provider, after which your spouse can then submit the outstanding balance to their provider. For kids, when there are two plans, the parent with the earlier birth date in the calendar year pays first. Read through your benefits manual and you might be surprised by some of the more unusual perks you never knew were there. They can add a chunk of change to your household bottom line.
CELEBRATING DIVERSITY The Region of Peel is a uniquely diverse community that is strengthened by the numerous cultures and backgrounds that it is comprised of. It is important for Peel Regional Police to represent and reflect the community we serve and to work together with our community to contribute to a safe environment in which to live, work and visit.
PEELPOLICE.CA/DIVERSITY
PAGE 50
sports
Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, July 26, 2017
JDF Are Senior League Champions
MELBOURNE -- Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) held their nerve to beat last season’s champions Melbourne CC by four wickets in the Jamaica Cricket Association two-day Senior Cup final at Sabina Park. JDF Captain Damion Grey contributed a crucial, unbeaten 20, while Sheldon Cottrell made two not out to close out the tense 93-run chase Sunday. Scores: Melbourne 103 (30 overs) & 233 (32 overs); JDF 244 (106
overs) & 96-6 (36.1 overs) Resuming from their overnight 210-6, JDF, Senior Cup winners in 2014 and 2015, were bowled out for 244. That gave them a lead of 141 runs after Melbourne were dismissed for only 103 on Saturday’s opening day. JDF number four batsman Sean Bennett top-scored with 72, while Rasheed Outar chipped in with 58 from the first day. Wicketkeeper/batsman Rohan Chang, who shared in a seventh-wick-
et stand of 81 runs with Bennett, made 33. Left-arm finger spinner and Captain Nikita Miller grabbed 5-60 off 37 overs, while wrist spinner Damion Jacobs claimed 3-65 off 24 overs. Batting a second time, Melbourne, knowing they had to win outright to retain the title, employed a aggressive approach in their bid to get back into the game. Their second-innings 233 was scored at a breakneck rate of almost eight runs an over. Openers Trevon Griffith (43) and Tareque Whyte (28) set the tone with a quick-fire 74-run stand. Middle-order batsman Andre McCarthy belted 47, while Sadiki Bolt, brother of sprint superstar Usain, added 36. Damion Jacobs, who complained of a stomach-related illness, did not bat in the second innings.
JDF’s left-arm spinner Shamarlie Brown took 3-24 off eight overs and one ball, while part-time spinner Rasheed Outar had 3-32 off seven overs. Another part-timer, Joseph Palmer, who took five wickets in the first innings, had 2-49 off five overs. Melbourne fiercely defended the meagre advantage and made the army men sweat for every run. But a lead of 92 runs always appeared too few. And, to compound matters, they were still without the ace spinner Jacobs. However, left-arm finger spinner Christopher Lamont took two wickets before tea time as JDF entered the interval at 44-2. And after tea it was the evermiserly Miller who took charge to capture three wickets as JDF fell to 76-6.. - Jamaica Observer
Soulyve In Association With the Orangeville Food & Beverage Festival Presents
Saturday, August 19, 2017
STREET FESTIVAL FROM 11AM TILL 4PM
Experience Live African Drums, Workshops, Brazillian Samba Dancers, Ice Carving, Vegetable Carving, Contests, Giveaways, Prizes, Live Music, Activities and More!
AFTER PARTY ON SOULYVE’S PATIO STARTING AT 8PM INCLUDING LIVE DJ!
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