Celebrating Black Achievement 061715

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CELEBRATING BLACK ACHIEVEMENT Recognizing Black Contributions to the Community

ALYSSA MAHADEO/TORONTO CARIBBEAN On the evening of June 6th, many gathered at the prestigious Queen Elizabeth Theatre at the Exhibition grounds in Toronto, to celebrate the achievements of Black Canadian citizens within the community.

The evening was filled with an air of accomplishment welcoming nominees and role models from all walks of life to gain recognition for all of their hard work empowering the black community. This diversity event, celebrates the success stories and achievements of trailblazers and leaders within Canada and beyond.

In their quest to celebrate black excellence, the evening began with a presentation of honoring black role models by giving them a certificate to commemorate their achievements and gifting them with a

scarf as a token of their contributions to the Diversity Advancement Network. This acknowledgment is an annual celebration of the 100 Success Stories of Black Lawyers, Doctors, Teachers and other outstanding achievers and community leaders.

“It’s very exciting and inspiring to have all these very talented, committed and hardworking people come together in celebrating such a remarkable work, while using their accomplishments to inspire the new generation”, Says Paul Ade, the executive director of the Diversity Advancement Network.

The awards ceremony commenced with the beautiful and enchanting four time Juno Nominee Lorraine Scott singing the Canadian national anthem. She

was humbled to be invited and recognized for her work and inspired by all of the hard work being done by her peers. Randall Mitchell and Hodan Nalayeh, came together to host the evenings program with a spontaneous and humorous rapport keeping the audience on their toes as they announced the winners in each category.

Those honorees that were presented with awards were recognized for their outstanding achievements, and contributions to the community through roles and positions they hold advocating and showcasing their significant contributions through leadership, women’s rights, and missions to inspire change.

Continued On Page 10

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Kerra Denel Ragoo; Inspiring Positivity Straightforward, determined and passionate about her work, Kerra Denel Ragoo was born in San Fernando, Trinidad ready to take on any challenge, and make her mark in the world.

After her parents’ divorce, Kerra moved to Canada with her mom. While living in Toronto she started working in Customer Service, and then landed a job with the city in the Access and Diversity Unit, bringing multicultural groups together to educate people about diversity.

Her job entailed bringing together different community groups, and coordinating events that gave people the chance to experience the diversity of the city intermingling with them through various events. She quickly realized that there was no stability in working for the government, when her unit was abolished and she found herself out of a job.

She didn’t let it discourage her, taking charge and using the skills she had to start freelance event planning, modeling. Keeping her cultural roots alive, she took on projects during Caribana in the city working with the carnival bands, and helping out with any preparations to be made.

A year ago, after losing her grandmother, Kerra had a hard time, contemplating her existence and purpose in life. She took some time to recover, and re-evaluate what she wanted and how she was going to make it happen. Kerra always loved kids; she loved to be around them. Children are so influential and she enjoyed teaching them and helping to make a difference in their lives.

She never was a big reader, but she realized it’s importance in the lives of youth attending personal development seminars she gained some insight into how important literary works are to the developing mind. Kerra set to work on a plan, deciding what she wanted to do to start making a difference and founded her very own charity Kerra Loves Kids.

Kerra’s organization focuses on giving back to the less fortunate children worldwide. They host charity initiates across the Caribbean, Canada and the US, and their mission is to help educate and inspire kids while shaping their future one book at a time. Her reasoning was simple, wanting to bring books back into the system of a technology dependent world. Kerra spends most of her time investing in her organization, always planning events and book drives to help raise aware-

ness, sending books to children in orphanages so they might aspire to become the best they can be.

Kerra spends most of her time with the children in the orphanages, reading, teaching, and sharing inspiring stories and dreams for the future. She has a very strong faith in God, and one of her recent projects Operation Smile was to help keep the positivity and maintaining the vibes encouraging the kids to smile regardless of the situation at hand. She spent time at the orphanage in San Fernando, close to where she grew up helping to renew the library sharing the love with the kids so they know that people care about them. Spending time with those kids reminds her everyday that life is bigger than going to a soca party, driving a nice car or owning a condo downtown. It makes you feel like you can do anything and they want to help other people and give back.

One of her upcoming events is a Family Fun Day to be held in Trinidad. She hopes to bring people out from all walks of life, both the rich and the poor to come together and enjoy a day of family fun inspiring a muchneeded getaway from the everyday stresses of life. For more information about Kerra’s organization and how you can get involved visit https://www.facebook.com/kerraloveskids.

Written by Alyssa Mahadeo Toronto Caribbean Reporter

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

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The Three Rivers Foundation needs your help!

Alyssa Mahadeo TC Reporter The Three Rivers Foundation is a devoted and charitable organization dedicated to helping the children of Guyana, who are sick and in severe need of medical attention.

Their cause is to provide funding to these children and their families so that they might be able to receive treatment and give them a chance at a better life.

Since 2008, they have been giving special attention to those children in Guyana who need medical care but are unable to af-

ford it and they are unable to determine the cause of their ailments. Throughout the year, The Three Rivers Foundations hosts various events, hoping to raise the funds needed to fly the children and their parents from Guyana to India, where they will be able to run tests and receive the medical attention needed from a physician to understand how they can help the children treat and overcome their conditions.

This year they are planning on sponsoring another group of children, to bring to Toronto, and then taken to India for diagnosis. Since each case is different, and there is no way to estimate how much each case will cost. The organization is committed to carrying out each and every promise they make to the children and their families, however they cannot do it without the resources to make it happen.

For every child and their family The Three Rivers Foundation covers the air-

fare, accommodations and hospital fees. All of these children come from poor and unfortunate circumstances and sometimes parents are unable to care for them based on the severity of their conditions. In order to reach out a helping hand, the organization hopes to provide a new life for these children, if they are able to get them the care they need to get better, hopefully making a small difference in the current situations of each family.

There are many unanswered questions on a case by case basis, and so for every child there has to be room for unforeseen circumstances in case of emergency situations. In the past children have been taken ill while in transport, doctors and accommodation had to be arranged for at the last minute and so it is important for the organization to have a cushion of at least $50,000 in contingency funds.

Looking forward The Three Rivers Foundation hopes to do everything in their

power to take care of all the children’s needs regardless of circumstance, and they are urging the public to contribute where they can to help their cause.

“It is important to raise awareness for why the logistics are not black and white,” says Three River’s President Jeanette Singh. “Sometimes there are set backs, surgeries to be performed so most of the time we are going in blind.”

Mrs. Singh urges the public to lend a helping hand and pushes them to take action so that they can help to keep the promises they have made to the sick children of Guyana. Although this year has been more difficult than past years, their undertaking will not go unfulfilled and they plan on doing whatever it takes to see that mission realized.

For more information on The Three Rivers Foundation, how you can get involved or donate to the cause visit http:// www.threeriverskidsfoundation.org/.

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Trinidad PM bracing for more ʻdespicableʼ attacks “I am not afraid” TRINIDAD -- Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar last night warned her supporters to brace for more “lies, deceit, falsehoods and dangerous propaganda” in the build-up to the general elections on September 7.

Speaking to supporters Rienzi Complex, Couva, during the party’s Monday Night Forum, Persad-Bissessar reminded the gathering that she did previously warn them that there would be attacks on her as the general election campaign heated up.

“I did warn you that when we ring the election bell there would be some of the most despicable lies and distractions by our political enemies ever imagined,” she said in what seemed an obvious reference to the recent allegations made by former party financier and Chaguanas West MP Jack Warner.

“I warned you then that they will seek to attack me, your ministers, your MPs, your activists, every single person associated with the Partnership.

“Don’t say I did not warn you and so said, it has come to pass.”

She called on supporters to “brace” themselves as it will only get worse.

“It will not stop,” she said, adding that until September 7 they would see “more

vicious lies and fabrications and false propaganda.”

“So tonight I say be prepared,” she added.

However, the PM said she planned to stand and fight with anyone as she was not afraid.

Persad-Bissessar also mapped out a plan of development for the next five-year term should the Partnership win the election, saying that when her party took over office from the People’s National Movement (PNM) back in 2010, the economy and the country was “on the brink of collapse” because of the “economic mismanagement” of the then government.

She said in the next five years, however, the People’s Partnership planned to fulfill all the promises of their existing manifesto and had added fresh ones, including the causeway to Chaguaramas and a new hospital in Arima.

“In five short years, I ask you, look at the country we live in today. We may not have done everything we promised, but we have fulfilled 90 per cent of the manifesto promises,” Persad-Bissessar said - Trinidad Guardian

No official resignation from Baker TRINIDAD -- Tobago Organisation of the People (TOP) leader Ashworth Jack says Tobago West MP Dr Delmon Baker has not yet officially resigned.

“Dr Baker has signaled his intention to resign. He has not yet submitted his resignation,” Jack told the T&T Guardian Monday.

He was responding to questions on a report that Baker hand delivered his resignation to Jack last Saturday night after a TOP meeting.

Jack said he would wait until Baker tendered his official resignation before he commented on the issue.

He said the two had a cordial exchange when Baker signaled his intention to resign.

“He would have thanked me for the opportunity to serve and I would have thanked him for serving the country,” he added.

In August 2014, a breakaway faction of the TOP, led by Baker, formed a new political party, the Tobago Forwards.

Baker was appointed Minister of Tobago Development by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar.

Former TOP chairman, George

Stanley Beard, is a member of the new group.

Baker, back then explaining the formation of the new party, said they could not face the 2015 general election with the TOP which was completely rejected by Tobagonians in the Tobago House of Assembly 2013 elections.

The TOP lost every seat, including leader Ashworth’s Jack’s. “...And, therefore, if we go before the population in May 2015 as the TOP and face another defeat then, in my respectful view, the TOP at that time would also have another challenge,” Baker said.

Interim chairman of the Tobago Forwards, Anslem Richards, said the purpose of the new party was to provide an alternative political choice to Tobagonians.

The Tobago Forward was the “dawn of a new era of the political landscape in Tobago,” he said.

The TOP split into two factions after the January 2013 THA elections.

The dissident faction, led then by Beard, called on Jack and the TOP executive to resign. Jack did not resign.

- Trinidad Guardian

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

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6 Wednesday, June 17, 2015

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Guyanese Film-Forgotten Promise, a big hit in Toronto Emily Singh TC Reporter The Ontario Science came alive Sunday night as guests poured in by the hundreds for the premiere of the Guyanese film “Forgotten Promise- A Story of Redemption.” A Mahadeo Shivraj Production written by Somnauth Narine tells the story of Tony Dass (Mahadeo Shivraj) and his journey from America back home to Guyana after he receives a phone call that could change his life forever.

After a messy end to his marriage to Padmini (Lakshmee Singh), Tony Dass is summoned to live with his friend Parsram (Nadeer Bacchus) while he figures out what to do next.

Meanwhile, back in Guyana antique store owner Antu (Paul Budnah) gets his hands on a piece of literature from Dass’s past. In his shops possession is a copy of renowned poet Rabindranath Tagore’s book of poetry with a special inscription inside. Upon receiving the call from Antu a nostalgic Tony is immediately taken back to memories from over two decades again in Guyana where he first received the book from his past love Suschila (Yanitra Raghubir). The fond memories of standing along the beautiful shores of Guyana’s waters with Suchila hand in hand as he prepares to leave the country and move to America are still so vivid in his head before he is suddenly hit with the harsh realities of his current situation… Alone, kicked out

and estranged from his son Amar (Rabindra Narine).

Since his move to America he left behind his name “Charran” and adopted a new identity overseas as Tony. Also left back and forgotten was his lover Suschila and the promise he had made to her which was to come back, a promise that he soon forgot once he established a life in America. After receiving the phone call and reminiscing on his past, Tony decides to call Antu back and have him enlist his private investigator to track down Suschila. With his bags packed and his sprits high he embarks on his Journey to Guyana to fulfill a forgotten promise he once made.

When he arrived in Guyana, reality quickly sets in for him as he realizes time did not stand still and Suschila has since established a family of her own. The drama continues to unfold as Tony unknowingly befriends Suschila’s husband Totaram (Neaz Subhan). To his shock, he also discovers a part of him stayed in Guyana after all these years through the form of a son he never knew he had with Suschila. Tony is suddenly at a crossroads between his unfinished past and his dismantled current situation.

I caught up with the man himself, Mr.Mahadeo Shivraj before the premiere to find out about some of the challenges he encountered when putting together this amazing movie.

“The biggest challenge is not making the movie. The biggest challenge is getting the movie out to the people because of the piracy, especially in Guyana where we don’t have cinemas anymore. When you are doing something you love you find it easy, but of course there are challenges.

Sometimes actors are not prepared when they come and you may have financial constraints. You may also have trouble securing

locations, but I do my homework so it makes the actual filming a lot easier,” says Shivraj.

This isn’t the first movie that Shivraj has under his belt-it’s his fifth! However, Forgotten Promise is especially close to his heart and unique because it was the first to be shot in beautiful Guyana. Originally born and raised in Georgetown, Guyana Shivraj reminisces about what it was like during those three weeks of filming in Guyana.

“I like Mahaica Creek the best and that’s because my grandparents are from there. I just love the environment it has that country simplicity,” says Shivraj.

The movie was filmed in New York as well as many locations across Guyana.

Much of the movie takes place in Anna Regina on the Essequibo Coast.

The anticipation was at an all time high as guests mingled and enjoyed a quick drink at the bar before the moment we were all waiting for- the big premiere. The very beautiful Miss World Canada national finalist Sachi Mahadeo was also present and expressed to me how proud and excited she was to come out and support her community and ethnic background.

After the movie I caught up with Habeen Alli, the Community Development Manager of the International Development and Relief Foundation (IDRF), to hear his thoughts about Forgotten Promise.

“I am blown away! I was looking forward to Forgotten Promise and today I realize that we have the talent and we are not a left over culture. Today we have seen for the first time, if not before that the Bollywood musical scene has been able to be replicated in Guyana. One of the reasons I have supported this on behalf of IDRF is because we work diligently with men and women in Guyana on domestic violence, poverty and

broken marriages etc. I loved the story and I hope that each and every Guyanese here in North America will have a copy. Again congratulations to the producers it was really beautiful,” says Alli.

Indeed it was a beautiful movie that evoked a number of emotions from the crowd. The comedy stylings of Mr. Mahadeo Shivraj were truly entertaining and had everyone laughing. Along with laughter, the movie was filled with drama, excitement and heart-warming moments. Without a doubt, Shivraj has truly out done himself with Forgotten Promise.

People from all walks of life both in and out of the Caribbean community can enjoy this movie. I ran into Reverend Earl Smith to hear about his favorite part of the movie. We even joked about him visiting Guyana one day after seeing the movie. He expressed his interest in going one day to experience more of the flavor of the country!

“I liked the story, in particular the scene in the temple. I thought it was really well done. I was also very surprised by the ending, it changed everything, but it was a good surprise because it really shakes you up a bit,” says Reverend Earl Smith.

This amazing premiere could not have been done without Tropical Escape Restaurant & Lounge and CEO Rajmini Ramkumar. This event was also made possible by the unwavering support from Pandit Vishnu of the Valmiki Ashram. An event of this magnitude could not have been executed without the hard word and dedication of Rajmini Ramkumar and her wonderful restaurant, Tropical Escape Restaurant & Lounge.

The next stop for Forgotten Promise will be South Florida. Visit www.mahadeoshivrajproductions.com for clips from some of Shivraj’s past films and to be in the loop for his upcoming hits.

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Canada to fund six-year plantain production and marketing project GUYANA -- Local plantain farmers will soon be receiving full support from a Canadian-funded six-year project aimed at enhancing production and facilitating linkages with local and overseas markets.The Canadian plantain support project falls under a regional programme being implemented by the Canadian Hunger Foundation (CHF) under the name Promotion of Regional Opportunities for Produce through Enterprises and Linkages (PROPEL).

PROPEL intends to increase the value of Caribbean fresh produce — in Guyana’s case plantains — through access to high-value markets (HVMs) in the Caribbean and internationally.

Funding for the project for the next six years would be provided through the Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs Trade and Development (DFATD) and the CHF, and would be to the tune of Cdn. $100 million.

The CHF disclosed that the PROPEL project would enhance production and improved management practices of the targeted beneficiaries through training programmes in plantain management and agronomy.

These and other goals would be achieved through Farmer Field Schools; the use of extension services; farmer-to-farmer/ farm exchange visits; support for on-farm research and demonstration plots/trials; and support to generate high quality planting materials through mass propagation systems.

The project also aims to improve the ability of local farmers to respond to

quality standard requirements of markets.

CHF announced start-up of the project in a recent notice in the print media, captioned: “Opportunities for plantain farmers; CHF supporting plantain production in Guyana.”

Participation is open to small-, medium-and large-scale agricultural producers domiciled and/or operating within the main agricultural regions of Guyana, who satisfy certain criteria. One of the criteria which must be met for participation in the PROPEL project, the CHF disclosed, is that the producer must be an individual business, or a producer group (PG), or a cooperative entity engaged in primary agricultural production, with plantains being one of the crops cultivated. The production must be in commercial quantities; in this regard, a minimum of 300 suckers. Additionally, the individual or entity must be willing and able to participate in aspects of the project’s programme, including cooperation with CHF and all other stakeholders, which would include other producers, government agencies, nongovernmental organisations, and providers of technical services.

The Guyana Office for the PROPEL project is based at the local CHF Caribbean base at 26 Lamaha & Irving Streets, Queenstown, Georgetown. Farmers interested in participating in the PROPEL project can visit the office to get additional information, or call telephone numbers 226-6242, 227-7839, or 226-5891.

- Guyana Chronicle

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JTA candidate lashes Black River Mayor JAMAICA -- Ansell Palmer, a Jamaica Teachers Association (JTA) presidential candidate, has criticised Mayor of Black River, Everton Fisher, for a statement that he made on the political platform which was critical of teachers’ conduct, at the height of the current wage negotiations with the Government.

The mayor, who represents the governing People’s National Party’s (PNP) Balaclava Division in the St Elizabeth Parish Council, had harshly criticised the nation’s public sector workers who are negotiating for a pay hike with the Government.

However, Palmer who outlined his objectives for the teachers if given a chance, gave his position on the matter while addressing teachers in Hanover at their annual meeting.

“Mi hear a politician the other day next door a talk to teachers like them a house slaves. Mi hear him tell the teachers say, ‘hold oonu corner enough, and mind oonu follow oonu little labourite and president enough’,” related Palmer.

He added: “Teachers, hold oonu corners, like him sure say every teacher a PNP. Listen to me, this name JTA, Jamaica Teachers Association... it is not PNP, it is not JLP. It is JTA, no ‘P’ no ina it.”

Palmer also said that the nation’s teachers should not allow any politician to

dictate to them when seeking their food.

“It no matter which slave master table the most crumbs fall off. When you a defend your food, no let no politician or party dictate to you. When you do act ... act. You know the house slave when we a plan fi bun down the plantation and kill slave master, because house slave a get fi eat round the table and sleep ina the basement, him say, no man, no sah, master nice,” expressed Palmer who was roundly applauded by teachers present at the meeting.

Palmer, who is a teacher at the Lowe River Primary and Junior High School in Trelawny, went on: “Teachers, let us be resolute, let us be serious.”

Among the things Palmer said he will be lobbying for on behalf of his colleagues are the introduction of overtime pay, similar to the police, nurses, doctors, and those in the private sector; photo identification for all teachers; better working conditions and travelling for persons such as senior teachers.

Teachers of the over 24,000-strong JTA are expected to cast their vote for a candidate in the upcoming (2016-2017) presidential election slated to be held from June 22 to 26.

- Jamaica Observer

10 Wednesday, June 17, 2015

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Black Canadian awards Alyssa Mahadeo TC Reporter Continued From Page 1 -- Dr. Alvin Curling recipient of the Lifetime Leadership Award is the 1st Black speaker of the Ontario legislative assembly and the 1st Black Canadian to hold a Cabinet position. He is an advocate for youths and minority issues and the longest serving Member of Provincial Parliament in Ontario. He served as Canada’s Ambassador to the Dominican Republic. He played an important role in shaping government policies addressing youth violence and other causes nation-wide.

The Community Service Award was awarded to Mr. Frantz Benjamin the First Black Canadian in Montreal to be appointed Chairman of the Montreal City Council and currently the Speaker. Respected amongst his colleagues provinces-wide for his record of integrity. He’s an author, a leader by example and a poet.

The Professional Award was awarded to Elcho Stewart the founder and President of the Network of Black Business & Professional Women. An insur-

ance and financial security broker with her financial column distributed worldwide.

The Public Service Award went to Cpl. Nathan Cirillo, a respected member of the Armed Forces, who proudly defended our rights and freedoms. He united us in purpose and made us stronger together as a Great Canadian Hero.

The Leadership Award was presented to Mohamed Salih. The 1st politician of Sudanese origin elected outside of Sudan. Elected at age 28, Salih ran against four other candidates and won by a record landslide of 53% despite facing racism, islamaphobia, and other challenges. He is presently one of the youngest politicians in Canada. Served in the Canadian Forces, Military Police and later worked at the Canadian Border Services Agency.

The Women Empowerment Award was presented to Emily Mills Founder & sheEO of How She Hustles women’s network, a vibrant network that connects thousands of women all around Canada and the US. Other notable awards presented throughout the night was the Youth Empowerment Award that went to Orlando Bowen, The Inspirational Award presented to Bishop McEwan Sr., The Humanitarian Award awarded to Ammar Kamara recognized for his selflessness devoting his time and resources to the eradication of Ebola.

In addition to that there was the Heritage Award presented to Kathy Grant, The Entrepreneur Award awarded to Ricardo McRae and last but not least the Diversity Award given to Mary Galvan, an entrepreneur and community leader. Known for her diversity columns in local Caribbean newspapers.

Highlights of the night were the many outstanding live performances that impressed the audience with their ability to entertain. Singers Lisa Banton, Jay Harmony, Mel C, and Leila Day captivated the audience with beautiful song choices and original lyrics. The PowerHouse Choir, gave a strong vocal performance with a multitude of powerful voices blending together in harmony.

Memorable and unique routines included lyrically stimulating rap artist Xolisa, and rhythmically live and vibrantly colourful routines put together by African singer, The Psalmist and reggae artist SKIBU. Tying the night together and bringing it to a close was an outstanding performance courtesy of DOAHL Academy who put together a hardcore hip-hop routine with some very talented youth.

The Black Canadian Awards is only in their second year, and they are always looking for people willing to contribute and give back. For more information on how to get involved visit www. blackcanadianawards.com.

US, JA move against crime - First of three digital video testimony systems being installed in Supreme Court next month JAMAICA -- The first of three digital video testimony systems designed to protect witnesses is scheduled to be installed in the Supreme Court and commissioned into service next month. News of the systems emerged during a Jamaica Observer interview with United States Ambassador to Jamaica Luis Moreno last Wednesday.

While the systems, donated to Jamaica by the American Government, will be available for any relevant case, it was clear that the United States was motivated by the effects that lottery scammers were having on its citizens. Moreno had told the Observer that a few weeks ago an American woman committed suicide because she lost her life’s savings to lottery scammers.

The illegal activity has robbed many elderly Americans of millions of dollars and has been blamed for an upsurge in murders in St James. In March this year, Jamaica’s National Security Minister Peter Bunting reported that more than 500 persons had been arrested and billions of dollars in assets seized under the country’s anti-lottery scamming law since it was passed in 2013.

Some of the cases have already resulted in convictions, and at least one accused lottery scammer — 28- year-old Damion Barnett of Hendon, Norwood, in St James — was extradited to the United States to stand trial.

Last month, two Jamaicans — 25year-old Sanjay Williams of Montego Bay, and 34-year-old Fabian Winston Parkin-

son of Margate and Homestead in Florida, were found guilty in US courts on charges relating to lottery scamming. Parkinson was sentenced to just under five years in prison, while Williams could face up to 40 years.

About a dozen of Williams’ victims testified by video and in person during his trial in Bismarck, North Dakota.

According to prosecutors, the case came to light four years ago when 86-year-old widow Edna Schmeets, of Harvey, North Dakota, received a call from a man who told her she had won US$19 million and a new car.

All that she needed to pay were taxes and fees. But the process dragged out until Schmeets’s savings of about US$300,000 were wiped out. Assistant US Attorney Clare Hochhalter told jurors that the investigation identified more than 70 people — mostly elderly and vulnerable

— who were scammed out of more than US$5.2 million.

Hochhalter described the victims who testified as “heroes who helped shed light” on the scam, despite being “ashamed and embarrassed” about being tricked out of their money.

Last week, the US Embassy in Kingston told the Observer that the digital video testimony system — each valued at US$70,000 — is being funded by the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).

“This system will enable the court to receive live testimony from witnesses being sent from a remote location — for example, from another building, city, or even country,” the US Embassy explained.

“This capability will help to protect the security and identity of vulnerable witnesses or victims, and thereby encourage their testimony.

The image of the witness can be blacked out as necessary by the judge, and the witness’s voice can be disguised,” the embassy added. “The system will also allow prisoners to testify without leaving the prison, and [allow] victims of lottery scams to testify from the United States without travelling to Jamaica.”

Installation of the other two systems, the embassy said, will be determined by discussions between INL, the Supreme Court, and the Ministry of Justice.

- Jamaica Observer

12 Wednesday, June 17, 2015

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Solo travel: Stay safe while travelling as a female Micca Vanvield Travel Specialist Female-only travel is on the rise and that is due to countless reasons, whether it is for rest and relaxation, exploration, business, or simply to find love abroad. As a female who very often travels alone, I have learned many lessons along the way. Females can absolutely travel alone and have a fantastic time, however they do have to consider that security, health, religious and cultural beliefs vary by destination. Many countries have modernized their standards when it comes to female travel, however do keep in mind that some of the most beautiful places on this planet still have very strict cultural adherences when it comes to female visitors.

The more you know about your desired destination, the safer you will feel and you can happily bask in the excitement of your upcoming trip. While planning your trip be sure to complete a risk assessment on your desired destination if you plan on travelling alone. The assessment should include things like health conditions, safety and security, the political and economic environment, as well as cultural norms including acceptable attire for a female in that particular country. Along with this assessment, travellers should derive a risk management strategy which should outline any potential hazards and the precautions that they can take to avoid them.

Planning ahead could be the key to an

enjoyable vacation as it will create a sense of awareness even before stepping on that plane. Below are a few tips to ensure that you are ready for that trip while travelling as a solo female: • Make sure that your passport is valid and has at least six months validity outside of your desired return date • As a precaution against theft or even loss, scan and email copies of important travel details to friends and family such as flight details, itinerary, travel insurance, hotel details and car rental information. You can email a copy of this to yourself to an address that can be accessed from anywhere • If travelling to a hot destination, be sure to check the laws for wearing swimwear as it may be illegal in some countries to wear a bikini • Check to see if there is a travel advisory in effect for your desired destination • Obtain local laws and custom information, safety and security tips, health conditions, and entry requirements at travel.gc.ca/advice Females tend to sometimes be targeted for certain crimes and you need to make sure that you are taking preventative measures to try and avoid them. Criminals tend to target tourists in certain settings and they may work as a team or as individuals. Be mindful of certain distractions or sometimes unsolicited good Samaritans offering help as this may be a distraction to steal your belongings.

Plan your days before heading out so you know what your next move will be and always carry the address of your accommodations with you. When you get access to WIFI or an internet cafe send an email to a friend/family member for

your plans that day, or even leave a list of your plans in your room. Lower your tourist profile by not looking lost or confused and avoid opening your map in public places as it will attract attention.

Another area to consider before travel is your accommodations. There are a variety of options for accommodations for female travel which are quite cost effective and can be deemed as being extremely safe. Many sites now offer valuable information and reviews on various accommodations such as tripadvisor.ca. If you specifically would like to stay in a hostel then hostelworld.com and hihostels.ca are great resources for hostels across the world. The staff where you are staying can advise you on the safest means of transportation in that particular city. Many cities like London, Cairo and even Moscow have female only taxi drivers, this is a great way for a female traveller to feel safe, however if you are visiting a country that does not have this in place, always use only legal and reputable taxi services. Your hotel will be happy to offer information on what a licensed taxi looks like and avoid taking a ride from an unsolicited taxi as you exit the airport.

If the reason for your travel is to find love, or if love finds you, be mindful of potential sexual assault. Taking precautions is your best defence against becoming a victim. While out having a good time, never leave your drinks or meals unattended. If you begin to feel sick or strange find someone you trust and seek medical attention.

Some of your most memorable travel experiences will come from solo travel. If you dared to dream it and it’s on your bucket list, get it done. Dream big, be safe and have fun.

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Wednesday, June 17, 2015 13

Jah Cure releases new ʻsoundʼ on July 10th The Caribbean knows oh too well of the infectious hold reggae music has on the Diaspora and how much of a significance the genre and the artistes who deliver it, has had on the rest of the world. In July, one Jamaican reggae artiste will prove that his voice can stand side by side with the greats and he will also show the evolution of his artistry. That artiste is Jah Cure.

With an album release date set for July 10th, Jah Cure is gearing up to deliver to fans, worldwide, “The Cure”- distributed by VP Records. The album- a 13 track compilation is being touted as a return to roots reggae and lover’s rock with R&B and pop-fused elements. On May 30th in Trinidad and Tobago, the country many Jamaican artistes describe as their second home, Jah Cure proved once again that he is a phenomenal artiste.

EtceteraBuzz has learnt that Jah Cure actually put in some behind-thescenes work on this album himself, having co-produced it with the help of reggae

producers like Christopher “Sketch” Carey, Clive Hunt, Llmar “Riff Raff” Brown, Justin “Jus Bus” Nation and Trevor “Baby G” Washington James.

The album will feature recent hits like his reggae chart-topping John Legend cover “All of Me” (which received over 5 million YouTube views), “Rasta” (currently #1 on Clinton Lindsay’s NY reggae singles chart), “That Girl” and “Life We Live” as well as brand new singles including “No Friend of Mine” “Made In California,” “I Surrender” and others.

Jah Cure has been one of reggae music’s more consistent artistes of this era. In Trinidad last week, he delivered his most loved anthems, belting out note after note to the appreciation of thousands who made it to the annual Redemption Concert held in Port-of-Spain. He certainly has a large fanbase on the island so with that, it’s quite likely that “The Cure” will be on many a Jah Cure fan ‘must purchase’ list.

- EtceteraBuzz

Trinidad and Tobago “Prime Real Estate for Beauty” says International Beauty Consultant Aba Luke Entertainment A Jamaican star is about to make the kind The beauty market in Trinidad and Tobago is proving to be quite an attractive one for international brands and beauty care suppliers. One agency, rooted in Toronto, Canada says Trinidad and Tobago is prime ‘real estate’ when it comes to the beauty care industry and

with that understanding, they’re on their way to T&T for what promises to be one of the best, if not the best and biggest workshops and conferences to ever hit the country, beginning on August 9th.

Ne Plus Ultra International Beauty Academy will host the event, which culminates on August 19th and will see several workshops take place at various locations across both Trinidad and Tobago. Tamara Carter of Ne Plus Ultra International says the conference and workshops will feature a number of salon and business educators who are considered experts in a wide range of trending salon brands and techniques.

The workshops will include business and branding awareness training, con-

ventional makeup training, eyelash extension training, hair colouring techniques, hair extensions and hair replacement training and even precision cutting and styling.

Carter says a number of internationally recognized beauticians will be in attendance this August, among them, New York City master stylist, Owen Sandy, International Hair Stylist and Branding Coach, Jackie Leon Soon and Master Eyelash Technician, Zoya Trotman.

The event is being touted as one that will offer beauty technicians of Trinidad and Tobago an opportunity to receive holistic training and sharpen their skills as they move forward in what

is certainly a fast paced industry.

Already, news of the Beauty and Salon Workshop Conference is buzzing across T&T, all with communication reaching several local beauty houses, whose owners and technicians are excitedly awaiting the event.

Both the workshops and the conference are open for anyone who has an interest in beauty culture, with Carter assuring that there’s something planned, for everyone. For further information and registration, interested beauty lovers can call 868-776-8821 or email: neplusultraacademy@gmail.com.

- EtceteraBuzz

14 Wednesday, June 17, 2015

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Hindrances to self knowledge - part 3 Simone Smith A Better Tomorrow I want to welcome back all readers to the Hindrances to Self Knowledge Series. The goal of this series is to help readers recognize ways in which they may be hindering their own success. Many of us go on with our lives oblivious to the fact that we have the ability to do more for ourselves. Some might be satisfied with their lives as they are, but majority of people are still looking to do

more. Some have become complaisant; ignorant to the fact that they are truly unhappy.

These are the individuals that I am hoping that I will reach with this series. This week, we are going to look at how pride and the ego can cause some issues with true knowledge of self.

Webster Dictionary defines pride as a feeling that you respect yourself and deserve to be respected by other people, and a feeling that you are more important or better than other people. Now I believe that everyone deserves respect and should also respect others. The issue with pride comes when looking at the second half of this definition.

When one starts to feel like they are more important or better than other people, they begin to lose focus on what is important in life, which is growth. The moment you feel

you are better than others, you instantly put yourself at a disadvantage. You are so busy comparing yourself to others, that you forget the fact that you have things in you that needs to be worked on. You begin to only note the positive aspects of self. I want to reiterate that it is important to have pride in who you are; it is also your responsibility to remain humble and realize that as great as you are, you might need some work in certain areas of your life. Pride can blind you in more ways than one. Pride itself can be one of the biggest blind spots that a human being can have.

If pride had a relative, its name would be ego. Ego is defined as the opinion that you have about yourself. In psychology, ego is seen as a part of the mind that senses and adapts to the real world. Having a

healthy ego is necessary to live a productive life. If we did not think much of ourselves, we would not be motivated to do anything.

Having a healthy ego involves knowing your strengths as well as your weaknesses. Where many run into problems, is when we become focused on our strengths and diminish our weaknesses instead of working on them. It is understandable why we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to focus on our weaknesses; who wants to face the fact that they are not good at something.

It takes humbleness and patience to want to improve oneself. It takes putting away your ego and your pride and focusing on those things that are not as â&#x20AC;&#x153;desirable.â&#x20AC;?

I encourage readers to start checking their pride and their ego. This will take time and effort; it will be ugly and painful, but the rewards are everlasting.

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Wednesday, June 17, 2015 15

Samuels launches charity to aid disabled JAMAICA -- Jamaica and West Indies star batsman Marlon Samuels has officially launched his foundation which will give support to the blind and visually impaired.

The all-rounder made the announcement at a party held at his upscale residence in Chancery Hall, St Andrew, on Monday.

Ambassador Courtney Walsh, West Indies bowling coach Sir Curtly Ambrose, Coach Phil Simmons and limited overs Captain Jason Holder were among a number of notable individuals who attended the event.

The move came after Samuels was hit by a ball from Sri Lankan pacer Lasith Malinga through the grille of his helmet two

years ago, while representing Melbourne Renegades in the Australian Big Bash Twenty20 tournament in 2013.

The blow left the right-handed batsman partially blind for two weeks, where he had to stay in his hotel room with swelling and bruising, before doing surgery for a fractured eye socket and returning home to Jamaica.

After recovering, the 34-year-old pledged his support for the blind and visually impaired with a donation of $50,000 to the Salvation Army School. That sum was used to aid five students with their examinations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is basically a charity that is in aid of the blind and disabled, and what it is

going to be doing is rally people from the industry... both sports and corporate Jamaica to just give to the charity. The funds collected will then be handed over to the various entities that will deal with things related to the blind and disabled,â&#x20AC;? Samuels explained.

Despite launching the foundation, the right-arm off-spinner is yet to confirm the name of the charity. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have not finalised that as yet, but one of the names that we are looking at is the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Marlon Samuels charityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Marlon Samuels Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;,â&#x20AC;? he revealed.

Samuels made his Test debut in Australia in 2000, and his One-Day International debut against Sri Lanka in Nairobi,

during the ICC Knockout Trophy in the same year.

After serving a two-year ban, while maintaining his innocence for â&#x20AC;&#x153;receiving money, or benefit or other reward that could bring him or the game of cricket into disreputeâ&#x20AC;? in 2008, Samuels returned to the West Indies set-up in 2010, and hardly missed a step.

He has since remained a prominent figure in the regional side where he played a major role in their 2012 ICC World Twenty20 championship win. Samuels is currently part of the West Indies squad going up against the touring Australian team.

- Trinidad Guardian

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16 Wednesday, June 17, 2015

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Belief still there says Ramdin JAMAICA -- West Indies captain Denesh Ramdin must be a tired man having to say the same thing after every series but Sunday he mentioned that although his team lost the series 2-0 against Australia, there were positives to take moving forward.

Chasing 392 runs for victory on the fourth day of the second Test at Sabina Park, West Indies folded for 114—giving Australia a huge 277-run win. West Indies lost the opening Test in Dominica by nine wickets to give Australia a clean sweep, as the Aussies move on to England for the Ashes tour.

According to Ramdin: I think that the boys showed fight and there are things we can take out of the this series in moving forward. We went out against a top team and showed some fight there, I thought that young (Devendra) Bishoo and (Jerome) Taylor performed well.

Bishoo bowled very well in

Dominica and Taylor did the same here, so there are things we can take away with us.

“I think that the experience the young men would have gained against a top all round side like Australia, would be with them for the rest of their life.

The youngsters showed fight and we still have self belief in ourselves.”

Looking at the last match Ramdin added: We had our plans to bat the first hour without losing any wickets but it did not happen and this put us back.

We wanted to bat session by session and come back tomorrow to see how many runs we would have needed but it just did not happen.”

Meanwhile, winning Australian captain Michael Clarke said the West Indies team and public just have to be patient.

“You have the talent here and I think that you just have to be patient

with the young players and West Indies cricket will be back. I think that your coach (Phil) Simmons is a great person and fantastic coach and he would take the team forward.”

He ended by saying: I enjoyed my time here playing cricket in the Caribbean. Playing against the West Indies is something I always love, Brian Lara is my favourite player, so any time I am in the Caribbean, I enjoy myself.

- Trinidad Guardian

20 Wednesday, June 17, 2015

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Tasty Jamaican saltfish rundown recipe aan and nd fr ffrom rom rom m ttime ime tto ime o ttime ime sh ime im she he w would ooul uld ld sh shar share haree som so some om mee of her of her sec secrets cre rets wit with ithh me me… sh shee sa saw aw th tthee cu curiosuri r osity in my eyes!

Chris De La Rosa Caribbean Cooking Rundown is yet another stew type dish where there are several variations as you make your way across the Caribbean. From the ingredients used to the technique, you’ll find that as you go from island to island, you’ll encounter subtle (delicious) differences. This recipe was shared with me many moons ago when I first came to Canada and I became friends with the only other Caribbean family who lived the the same apartment building we called home the early years in Hamilton. My friend’s Jamaican grandmother was a general in the kitchen

You’ll Need: 2 cups prepared salted fish (Salted cod) 3/4 cup green bell pepper 3/4 cup red bell pepper 1/2 scotch bonnet pepper 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 medium onion 3 sprigs fresh thyme 1 cup coconut milk 2 pimento berries (optional) 2 scallions (green onions) TIP: Remember when handling scotch bonnet peppers to wear gloves and to wash your hands immediately after with soap and water. If doing this recipe gluten free, please pay attention to the full list of ingredients to ensure they meet with your specific gluten free dietary needs.

T To o le lear learn arnn how how to pprepare repa re pare pa re tthe he ssalted he alte al alte tedd cod for use use, watch this video (c (cl (click lick the lin link) nk) How to prepare salted fish for use. I would recommend getting boned salted cod (or any salted fish you like) as it would mean less work having to remove the bones from it.

Prep all the ingredients. If you have access to fresh coconut milk yea! If not, the canned stuff is good (do see my note above if doing this gluten free). Heat the olive oil in a wide pan on a medium heat. then go in with the flaked salted cod (be sure it’s prepared – soaked, boiled, drained .. to remove some of the excess salt). Turn the heat down to low and let it go for about 3-4 minutes.

Add the other ingredients (not the coconut milk yet) and give it a good stir, let it cook gently for another 3-4 minutes so we get a wonderful flavor base.

You will notice that I did not add any salt to this dish as the residual salt in the salted cod will be enough to properly season this dish, however you can certainly taste and adjust near the end of cooking to your

lliki li liking. iki king ng.. No ng Now tu Now tturn urn rn uup p th thee he heat eat at and add the coconu co conut nutt mi milk milk. lk Br Bring rin ingg to a bboil, oill tthen oi h turn it down to a simmer and let it go until it thickens up a bit.

It will take about 4-6 minutes. Now this depends on how thick you want your gravy.. or if you even want gravy. This is great on rice, pasta, ground provisions or as in my case.. cassava dumplings. So I wanted a bit of gravy (like a stew) this day.

This Jamaican style rundown is simply stunning! As I mentioned above, recipes for rundown varies across the Caribbean, but the one true ingredient is always the coconut milk. Instead of the olive oil, you can always start off with coconut oil and if you’re a bit more daring, you can always use salted mackerel instead of the salted cod if you wish. That recipe.. we’ll tackle another day!

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Wednesday, June 17, 2015 21

The Most Accessible Way to Know Thyself We all form habits as we go through life. When we realize that we are creatures of habit and that those very habits often keep us stuck in patterns, we can finally begin to break the ones that are unhealthy. Then, and only then, can true spiritual growth begin.

In order to change, we have to change something. When you look at what you want for your life’s direction, you may find that something has to change from the way you’ve been living.

By consciously understanding which habits no longer serve you, then you are able to realize your best transformation. This is the basis of why meditation serves your best health. It renews your awareness of what you’re doing and not doing.

Enter the Here & Now Through Meditation Whether you’re looking to cultivate more authenticity, increase happiness, improve relationships, or reduce stress, all of these things are accessible to you through the practice of meditation. Learn how Gaiam TV can help you transform your life in this video.

Try This Meditation: Watching the Breath If we want to develop healthier habits

like a self-care program to curb the chaos and reduce our stress, then we have to get to know ourselves better. Meditation is the most accessible means to learn about yourself. Here is a straightforward meditation to promote awareness.

Sit in a comfortable position, either cross-legged on the floor or in a chair. Sit up tall with your spine straight, shoulders relaxed and your chest open.

Rest your hands on your knees with the palms facing up. Relax your face, jaw, and belly. Let your tongue rest on the roof of the mouth, just behind your front teeth.

Allow your eyes to lightly close.

Concentrate on the tip of your nose Breathe slowly, smoothly and deeply in and out through the nose. Let the inhale start in the belly and then rise gently up into the chest. As the breath slows and deepens, let go of any thoughts or distractions and allow the mind to focus on the breath.

Feel the breath as it moves in and out of the body, feeling it move through the nose, throat, windpipe, and lungs. Feel the body as it rises and falls with each breath. Bring as much of your awareness and attention to your body and breath as possible with each moment. As the thoughts return to the mind,

let them go, and return the focus back to the body and breath.

To help your concentration, you can count every out-breath as one, and count from 1 to 10. When you arrive at 10, simply start at 1 again. All the attention is with the feeling of the nose and the counting, nothing more, nothing less.

Regularly check whether you are still concentrating. Do not get upset when distracted. Simply return to counting from 1.

Practice for 5-15 minutes. Just before the end of the session, release the concentration on the counting and the tip of your nose, and simply be aware of how you feel for a minute or so. Gently let your eyes blink open, inhale your palms together in front of your heart, exhale, and take a moment or two to dedicate the positive energy you feel toward the rest of your day.

Love yourself, love your day, love your life!

- My Yoga Online

Wednesday, June 17, 2015 23

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

5 Foods that may help prevent (and battle) cancer We know that what we eat affects our health exponentially, especially when coupled with exercise. Unlike cancer risk factors that are out of our control (like genetics), our diet is directly manageable. Read on for five foods that are not only nutritionally beneficial, but that can potentially assist your body in preventing/fighting cancer.

Broccoli This cruciferous, green veggie packs a punch when it comes to knocking out malignant cells. Sulforaphane and glucoraphanin, a couple of key compounds found in broccoli, have been known to slow existing tumor growth. Additional, sulforaphane appears to act as a Histone Deacetylase inhibitor, which in turn could decrease cancer cellular expression. Sulforaphane has also demonstrated the capacity to affect the normalization of DNA methylation, which is crucial to regulating gene expression. Abnormal DNA methylation is present in the development of

many (if not most) types of cancer.

Garlic Although research is still being done to determine precisely how it does what it does, studies have shown that garlic is especially daft at reducing cancer risk. Particularly effective at producing cancer-preventative affects are garlic’s organosulfur compounds (found also in all Allium vegetables). These compounds are thought to modulate enzyme activities (including a family of enzymes that is imperative to the detoxification of carcinogens) and mitigate mutagenesis, among many other potential preventative mechanisms. Additionally, the phytochemicals found in garlic are anti-angiogenic, which could essentially prevent tumors from receiving a healthy blood supply.

Spinach/Kale/Collard Greens Leafy, green vegetables that are rich in color contain valuable doses of carotenoids. Beta-

carotene, zeaxanthin, and lutein (all carotenoids) all appear to prevent cancer by functioning as antioxidants. Free radicals, when left unchecked or found in high concentrations, can cause damage to major cellular components (including DNA). The damage done to DNA may play a role in cancer cell development. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, and subsequently prevent any bodily harm they might have caused.

Strawberries These sweet, red berries are rich in antioxidants, making them excellent free-radical scavengers (like the aforementioned leafygreens). Additionally, strawberries contain high levels of the flavonoid quercetin. Research suggests that quercetin may interfere with epigenetic alterations in chromatin that contribute to cancer growth. The flavonoid is suspected to contribute to chromatin remodeling that would essentially assist in remedying the carcinogenic changes. Quercetin also

has demonstrated antitumor effects by encouraging apoptotic cell death and slowing cancerous cell growth.

Turmeric This aromatic spice has long been touted for its medical benefits. Curcumin is a substance found in turmeric that has been (and is continually being) extensively studied for its cancer-fighting benefits. It’s suspected that curcumin may slow the spread of existing cancer though anti-angiogenic means as well as promoting healthy cell function (working symbiotically with the bodies of patients undergoing chemotherapy). Studies have also shown that curcumin can slow the spread of breast cancer stem cells by amplifying a specific negative feedback loop.

- Natural News

Systemic Candida - how to conquer and heal Candida is a common yeast-like, parasitic fungal infection which can become systemic when it spreads throughout the body and impacts bodily systems. At severe levels of infection Candida can become debilitating and even life threatening. Although mainstream medicine will tell you that Candida cannot be eliminated from the body, there are, in fact, natural ways to become candida free and keep it from returning.

Candida (Candida albicans) is actually part of the beneficial flora found in our digestive tract. Its job is to aid in digestion and absorption of nutrients. However, when there is an imbalance in the digestive system, Candida can grow and becomes a potential pathogen. Our intestines are home to 70 percent of our immune system. Healthy bacteria in the intestines keep Candida to normal levels and help keep our immune system strong. It is when unhealthy outside factors come into play that candida overpopulates and poses a threat to the body.

Factors that cause Candida overgrowth Systemic Candida has become commonplace in the last century with the introduction of such factors as our Standard Ameri-

can Diet (SAD), environmental pollutants, alcohol consumption, oral contraceptives, and antibiotics.

When such unhealthy factors are introduced and disrupt the natural balance, Candida then converts to its fungal form and spreads throughout the body. This, in turn, creates toxicity, which affects every cell in the body and creates health problems.

The most frequent cause of Candida overgrowth is the recurrent or extended use of antibiotics, because antibiotics tend to wipe out the beneficial bacteria that keep Candida in check. In fact, Candida expert Dr. Jeff McCombs states that if you have taken antibiotics, you have Candida overgrowth.

One common side effect that shows the disruption of beneficial bacteria in the intestines is diarrhea. Vaginal yeast infections are also common after taking antibiotics.

There are also numerous other medications which can be responsible for Candida overgrowth, such as chemotherapy and radiation.

Environmental toxins such as pesticides, herbicides, solvents, paints, formaldehyde, petrochemicals, and heavy metals also weaken the immune system and put the body at risk for. Chronic stress also weakens the

immune system, paving the way for candida overgrowth.

Some foods stand out as Candida fighters.

Among the very best are:

Symptoms of Candida overload There are many symptoms that signal Candida overgrowth. Some of these symptoms are mistaken for other diseases which often results in drugs being prescribed, which only make the problem worse and do not address the source of the condition. These symptoms include: Sugar/sweet cravings, gas, bloating, fatigue, low energy, allergies, sinusitis, acid reflux, hormonal imbalances, brain fog, depression, and arthritis.

• • • • • • • • • •

Eliminating Candida overgrowth The key to eliminating overgrowth is restoring the proper balance of healthy bacteria in our intestines.

A strict diet must be followed. Keep in mind, some foods that are considered healthy are not advised while addressing Candida. For information about a Candida diet, see: www.thecandidadiet.com For information on foods and other items to avoid when fighting candida see: www.naturalnews.com

Coconut oil Garlic Cayenne Pepper Onions Seaweed Rutabaga Ginger Extra virgin olive oil Lemon and lime juice Pumpkin seeds

Supplements that are effective in eliminating Candida are probiotics, digestive enzymes, and colloidal silver. Probiotics replace the balance of healthy bacteria in your intestines; digestive enzymes break down Candida’s cell wall and its protective biofilm; and colloidal silver kills destructive one-celled pathogens, including fungus.

Lastly, exercise is also important.

Exercise helps the body eliminate Candida die-off by detoxing pathways.

- Natural News

24 Wednesday, June 17, 2015

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Google and Amazon want to store your DNA in the cloud In the scramble between the mega-information-monopolies to control every aspect of your life, Amazon and Google are now vying with each other to own your DNA. Well, maybe not exactly own it -- at least not yet, anyway -- but they want to store it in the cloud and, as far as I’m concerned, that’s essentially the same thing.

Here’s the background story: Scientists and healthcare companies want to store human genome sequences for various reasons. One is research into diseases and their genomic roots; another is the development of what has been dubbed “personalized medicine,” but whatever the reason, storing genomic sequences is already an industry worth hundreds of millions of dollars, and is likely to become a billion-dollar cash cow soon, and both Amazon and Google want a piece of it.

These individual sequences require an enormous amount of storage; a single person’s raw genome data is 100 gigabytes in size, although apparently “polished” versions can be created that use less than a gigabyte of storage space.

vices that Google and Amazon are offering:

So what does all this mean?

Well, firstly, I’m not advocating that all genomic research and sequencing should be scrapped. And of course the data has to be stored somewhere, and the current storage options are not as secure as the cloud ser-

From TechnologyReview.com: Google began work on Google Genomics 18 months ago, meeting with scientists and building an interface, or API, that lets them move DNA data into its server farms and do experiments there using the same database

From Reuters: “Another selling point is security. Universities are ‘generally pretty porous,’ said Ryan Permeh, chief scientist at cybersecurity company Cylance Inc., of Irvine, California, and the security of federal government computers is ‘not at the top of the class.’”

But just how “secure” is the cloud?

If there’s anything we have learned over the years that the Internet has been around, it’s that no database is 100 percent secure.

And I think there are other huge implications regarding these developments, especially when you consider the fact that these companies are offering not only to store the data, but to analyze it themselves.

“Google Genomics”?

I don’t know about you, but I don’t really want Google or Amazon analyzing my DNA, no matter how well they can do it.

And it seems that they are already offering this “service” in addition to their cloud genome storage.

technology that indexes the Web and tracks billions of Internet users.

Maybe I’m paranoid, but I really don’t like the sound of a “Google Genomics” division.

What we need to keep in mind is that an individual’s genome is very personal, and access to it could mean many things.

Okay, it will be some time before scientists can actually make a clone of you, but that capability being realized may not be all that far in the future, either.

The immediate implications are that anyone who has access to your genome data can reveal a lot about you: your predisposition to certain diseases, for one thing -or even perhaps your behavior.

We need to be extremely careful when deciding who should have access to this type of information and what they can do with it. The technology is developing so rapidly that the ethical and security implications are not being adequately addressed, in my humble opinion.

And these scientists, drug companies, insurance companies -- and now even Google and Amazon -- are already trying to get their greedy hands on your DNA. And the funny thing is, not one of the news articles I found on the subject make any mention of the possible negatives involved.

- Natural News

The benefits of growing your own garlic Garlic is an important plant to grow because it is so good for the body! It is also easy to grow at home. Including garlic in one’s daily life adds many benefits. However, the majority of the garlic that is sold in the US is grown in China. Although it is categorized as organic, it is still grown in a non-conscious manner. The pollution is so awful in China that there is toxicity seeping into the food supply and there have been high levels of heavy metals detected in most foods grown there. To grow this medicinal root, plant it in the spring or fall. The bigger the garlic cloves that are planed, the bigger the garlic bulbs produced.

How to grow garlic To grow garlic, plant the cloves of each bulb.

Each clove makes an entire new bulb. The largest cloves usually make the largest garlic bulbs. Place the cloves in a hole in the dirt with root end down and cover with soil.

Make sure the area gets sun. A shoot will sprout and usually five leaves will grow. Be sure to water an inch or so a week. When half of the leaves turn yellow it is time to harvest the garlic. Carefully dig up each bulb; do not pull as it might break from the stalk.

Garlic can be planted throughout the garden as it helps deter unwanted garden pests, such as aphids. Garlic accumulates sulfur, a naturally occurring fungicide that helps protects plants from diseases. Garlic

can be planted with all fruit trees, peppers, tomatoes, eggplant, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, kale, broccoli and cauliflower.

The benefits of garlic • Fights inflammation • Boosts the immune system • Improves heart health • Helps to detox • Fights cancer • Repels insects • Helps body fight infections • Soothes sore throat • Helps cough • Clears nasal congestion - Natural News

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Weight loss motivation Monique Bartlett Fitness When it’s time to start losing weight, whether you like it or not we all have to workout in order to reach our weight loss goals. However, it’s not just working out that’s important. Motivation is key when it comes to exercise and health, so if you’re motivated to succeed you will. In order to increase your motivation, there are a few guidelines you can follow.

Finding a partner is a great way to increase the odds of you sticking to your workout. They will help to keep you focused and on track. They will also provide

you with extra motivation when you feel as if you can’t push yourself any harder. They can also be someone who supports you and encourages you when you hit a milestone.

You also need to set goals. You need goals to motivate you in order to succeed. Do you want to run a marathon? Do you want to lose a dress size? What small steps can you take every day to get you closer to that long term goal?

It’s also important to vary your routine. If you’re going to the gym, don’t just use the same machines over and over again.

You’ll get bored quickly and your body will adapt to your routine so you will no longer see any gains. If you’re working out at home don’t do the same workout every day.

Do different routines and workout different body parts and keep increasing your strength and intensity. This will cause you to see better results faster.

There are so many new gadgets on the market now that can help make your weight loss goal easier to reach. Get that new gadget and use it. It can be an online food tracker, a cal-

orie counter or a heart rate monitor. Whatever you feel will make it easier for you to achieve your goal then go for it.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or overworked then take a break. Taking a rest from working out occasionally will allow you to come back with renewed energy. It will also allow your muscles the opportunity to grow and give you that nice toned body that you aim for.

When you hit your goals make sure that you treat yourself. Go out and buy yourself a gift. Did you lose a dress size? Go out and get a new dress. Do you now have a six pack? Get some new clothes to show them off. Do you love to go to the spa? Now is the time to pamper yourself. It’s important to reward yourself when you reach one of your short term goals so it will keep you motivated to continue to your long term goal.

Most importantly, keep a log.

Tracking your workouts and progression will show the gains you are making and keep the momentum going. Do the work, see the results, and celebrate big!

Crown & bridges Dr. Matthew Weekes BSC DDS MTh DMin

Dental Health

A crown commonly called a cap is a dental restoration that is placed over a tooth that is lacking in natural tooth structure. This may be the result of cavities, fractured off segments, or severe wear and tear. Some teeth erupt into the mouth underdeveloped as is often seen with peg shaped upper lateral incisors. A crown is often used to transform these teeth to a natural form and size.

To restore small defects tooth matching bonding resins are used, but they

are not suitable to restore the form and function of extensively compromised teeth. A crown is an excellent restoration in this case.

It is fabricated to look and function like a natural tooth with ideal anatomy. It is made either of very hard durable porcelain as is often the case for restoring the four front teeth in either arch, or porcelain fused to metal.

The posterior teeth which require more resistance to wear are usually made with porcelain fused on the top of a semi-precious metal.

All teeth that have had root canal treatment should be crowned. As these teeth have no vital tissue, they become more brittle as time goes by and hence are more susceptible to fracture. By placing a crown on the tooth soon after the root canal therapy is performed, the strength of the tooth is greatly increased and the chances of fracture is very unlikely.

A bridge is a fixed prosthesis shaped

like a single tooth or several natural teeth and used to replace a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. It is attached and supported by crowns that are placed on the prepared teeth at both ends of the vacant space.

Bridges like crowns are aesthetically pleasing and restore the ability to chew your food efficiently. Bridges can either be supported by natural healthy teeth or by implants. The advantage of a bridge over a denture is that you do not have to take it out at night and it preserves the soft tissue and bone around the teeth much better than a denture. However very often there are several teeth missing and the treatment of choice could be a combination of bridges and partial dentures, a partial denture alone, or a complete full denture if no natural teeth are present.

A discussion with your dentist will determine the best treatment plan for you and the various alternatives to treatment.

Big belly blues Dr. Lydia Thurton ND BASc

Health Tips It’s the end of the day and all you want to do is unbutton your pants. Strangers ask you when your baby is due. Your grandkids relate you to Santa Claus. You are bloated and you do not know what to do about it. I have so many patients that complain that by the end of the day clothes are tight, they feel full and uncomfortable and they look overweight.

Let’s differentiate between fat mass and bloating. Fat mass creeps up over time.

You need to eat an excess of 3500 calories to gain one single pound of fat. That is more than most of us eat in a day. Fat mass accu-

mulates a little bit at a time. Bloating takes place over the course of the day. You wake up with a relatively flat stomach and by the end of the day you want to undo your belt.

For starters, if you have persistent bloating or feelings of fullness it is a good idea to get an abdominal ultrasound and blood work to check kidney and liver function. Ensure there is nothing serious going on. Once any thing serious has been ruled out, which is the case most of the time, it is time to get your digestive tract healthy.

Also good to know, it is normal to gain weight over the course of the day. Food and water intake will cause you to gain up to 5lbs. Retaining fluid, or water, usually isn’t localized to just the abdomen. Rings will feel tight, your face will look full and your ankles might get swollen. This is fluid. A mild diuretic can help. Watching salt intake, wearing compression stockings and drinking a reasonable amount of water are ways to prevent fluid accumulation. Herbs like cornsilk, parsley and hawthorn can increase urine fluid output. Hawthorn is the strongest

and should be used with caution and medical supervision.

If you are a female of child-bearing age, sometimes fluid retention is related to your menstrual cycle. Declining levels of progesterone prior to the start of your period can cause harmless water retention. A naturopathic doctor can help you safely and gently improve your hormonal health.

If you do not have regular bowel movements and your intake of food is greater than your output of stool then you feel heavy and bloated. Taking probiotics and digestive enzymes helps to reduce gas and bloating by ensuring your food is well digested.

Partially digested food that makes it to the large intestine has to be broken down by the bacteria that reside there. This causes gas as a by-product. Chew thoroughly and avoid food that makes you feel tired after eating it. Food sensitivities, like sugar, wheat, dairy and corn can cause bloating in some people.

Try eliminating suspected foods one at a time and see if it helps.

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Obtaining a divorce in Canada Valerie Dye Legal Matters Divorce in Ontario is governed by the Divorce Act which is a Federal Act that applies to all provinces in Canada. Although it seems relatively easy to obtain a divorce in Ontario parties applying for divorce must meet certain requirements before they are granted a divorce decree.

The applicant for a divorce must meet the requirements with regard to jurisdiction. Although the Divorce Act applies to all provinces in Canada a particular province only has jurisdiction to hear and grant a divorce if one of the parties has lived in that province for at least one year preceding the date of applying for the divorce.

Apart from the issue of jurisdiction, an applicant for a divorce must have grounds for a divorce. In Canada there is only one grounds for divorce and that is that there must have been a breakdown in the marriage. To prove that a marriage has broken down the applicant must show either one of two things.

Firstly, a marriage is said to have broken down if the parties have lived separately and apart from each other for at least one year. This does not mean that parties have to wait for one year to elapse before applying for a divorce. The application can be made before the end of one year but the divorce will not be granted until at least one year has expired. At the time the application is made the parties must have already separated.

A breakdown in marriage may also occur if the party against whom the divorce application is filed has been guilty of adultery or has displayed to the other party such physical or mental cruelty as to make further cohabitation intolerable.

The Meaning of “Separate and Apart” Most times when a marriage breaks down one of the parties is removed from the matrimonial home and begins living in separate

accommodations. However, this is not always possible or feasible and in some circumstances parties may continue living under the same roof despite the fact that they have separated. This does not negate the fact that parties are living separate and apart. In circumstances where parties are separated but living under the same roof they may need to prove that they lead entirely separate lives including the fact that they sleep in separate rooms.

Of course when parties live separate and apart from each other it must be with the intention of ending cohabitation and ending the marriage. In this regard, living separately for other purposes such as employment in another jurisdiction does not count towards separation for the purpose of meeting the criteria for divorce.

Often times couples separate and then reconcile in an attempt to work on their marriage. On some occasions such attempts are successful while on other occasions couples again separate after a failed attempt at reconciliation. Where the reconciliation period lasts for less than ninety days before couples separate again, the one year separation period is not interrupted but will continue to run as if there was no resumption of cohabitation. On the other hand, if cohabitation is resumed and continues for more than ninety days before another separation then the initial separation period would be deemed to have been interrupted and the one year will be counted from the date of the subsequent separation.

Most divorces in Canada are based on the fact that parties have lived separately and apart for one year or more. This is because it is easier to prove separation than it is to prove adultery or cruelty. Nonetheless, once the applicant for divorce has enough evidence to prove either adultery or cruelty then a divorce will be granted on those grounds.

The Civil Marriage Act In 2005 The Civil Marriage was enacted by Parliament. That Act provided that marriage is a lawful union of two ‘person’ to the exclusion of all others. This means that same sex marriages are recognised in Canada. By the same token the laws related to divorce apply to marriages between same sex couples in the same way that those laws apply to persons of opposite sex.

Multiculturalism Day Celebration Receives Inter-Action Funding OAKVILLE -- Visitors to the Multiculturalism Day celebration at Bronte Creek Provincial Park had a chance to share in Canada’s diversity and learn about other cultures through demonstrations and hands-on activities today.

Inter-Action, Canada’s multiculturalism program, provided $10,750 to the Halton Multicultural Council for the event, which will build bridges to promote intercultural understanding.

Activities at the Multiculturalism Day celebration included turban-making at the Punjabi booth; a Filipino booth where participants learned traditional dance; the

opportunity to see and try on Chinese dragon and lion costumes; and a Persian booth that featured hands-on experiences with plant and tea leaves.

Visitors also had a chance to take part in a citizenship ceremony, where 40 newcomers became Canadian citizens.

Terence Young, Member of Parliament for Oakville, and Mike Wallace, Member of Parliament for Burlington were on hand to announce the funding and participate in the celebrations.

- CIC

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Canada targets Italian immigrants through new Express Entry immigration system ITALY -- The Honourable Julian Fantino, Associate Minister of National Defence, on behalf of the Honourable Chris Alexander, Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister, announced a targeted initiative to attract more skilled Italian immigrants to Canada.

The recently-launched webpage in Italian promotes the new Express Entry system among Italians, and makes it easier to find information on Express Entry for Italians who are looking to emigrate to Canada.

The Government of Canada will also launch outreach activities in Italy to promote Express Entry and attract more Italian immigrants, starting with an Express Entry information session hosted by the Canadian Embassy in Rome on June 18.

Express Entry is designed to attract the skilled workers that Canada’s economy needs in order to grow, while ensuring that immigrants – from Italy and around the world – arrive here faster than ever before.

Under Express Entry, skilled workers who want to apply to Canada’s key economic immigration programs are able to create an online profile and express their interest in coming to Canada permanently. Those who meet the minimum criteria are accepted into the pool and ranked according to various factors, including language proficiency, education and work experience. The top candidates in the pool are then invited to apply and complete applications are processed in six months or less.

- CIC

Auto financing terms Jelani Daniel Automotive Corner

they want at a price that they can afford. The process is tailored and many considerations are made including the buyer or leasers present income, what type of car they would like and what interest rates they can afford and for how long. Loans and financing options are available to clients, as well as in-house financing and poor-credit options, making brokerages suitable for all income levels.

The auto financing process can sometimes be overwhelming for first time buyers or those looking to lease. You can use this article as a reference point if you are considering either leasing or financing in the future.

Dealership: A dealership sells new and used vehicles that are offered at standardized costs. As well, they offer financing options as well as leases, much like a brokerage.

They may be less forgiving for poor credit but do offer a series of different options for different incomes.

Automobile Financing: Automobile financing itself is a part of the personal financing field, giving clients a series of different options that are available to help the purchaser buy a vehicle they desire without a large initial deposit. Financing can include car leasing (Personal Contract Purchase) as well as car loans that can go towards purchasing a vehicle.

Long Term Financing: A long-term loan has a fixed interest rate and can be applied to both dealership and third-party loans. The term of the loan may be just under five years, but can extend to twenty five years or up.

The interest rate may be higher or lower than that of a short-term loan.

APR: An Annual Percentage Rate is an interest rate that takes a series of financial factors into consideration. Some considerations may include job stability, lifestyle costs, and potential job loss. The rate is fixed and will not increase over time, serving as a valuable tool for budgeting in the long run.

Brokerage: A brokerage consists of brokers, and brokers link the buyer with the seller. Typically, the automobile broker issues their services to help clients get the car

Short Term Financing: The term of the loan may be shorter than two years with a higher or lower interest rate than that of a long-term loan. Short-term financing may have promissory-based arrangements (signing a contractual agreement) in order to ensure the loan is paid off quickly. Both short term and long-term financing options look at lifestyle costs and projected incomes.

There are many other terms to consider, but the above are the most common and can help you get a better grasp on financing.

Wednesday, June 17, 2015 27

FOR SALE FOR SALE

FOR SALE LOOKING FOR

FORWANTED SALE HELP

LAND: 20 acres of gravel land excellent investment. Road, Lights, Water,1/4 mile of river, State Lands,East and West and 400 yards from National Quarry. Contact 905419-1053.

CARETAKER POSITION: Looking for a Live In Caretaker position. Preferable in the Brampton area. Call 905-791-8084

DRIVER: For a Cargo Van for Delivery.

Full time or Part time. Call Stanly 416-9383753. Message 416-686-5502

FOR SALE WANTED

FOR HOUSE SALE OPEN

CHAIRS AVAILABLE: Hair Dresser and Barber Wanted. Full and Part Time for Mississauga and Brampton Location. Contact 647-618-0074 or 905-781-8320.

BRAMPTON: Beautiful 1.5 years old detached home for sale by owner. Corner unit with stone, brick and stucco finishes.

Upgraded countertops/cabinets. Open house on Saturday and Sunday at 5 Egerton Street, Brampton ON. Call 416-219-7675.

LAND: Land for sale in South Trinidad One and 3/4 acres Highway frontage New Southern Highway Extension .Excellent for business and residential investment. Land ownership opportunity .Inescapable Commercial potential. Please contact; rballiram@par-med.com

FOR SALE COMPANIONSHIP COMPANIONSHIP WANTED: East Indian Guyanese Male, Age 41 5 foot 9 Dark hair brown eyes medium build. Seeking a Guyanese or Trinidadian female. Medium built busty age 18 to 65 for a relationship.

Call 416-422-2935

LIST UP TO 30 WORDS FREE! Send your information to info@torontocaribbean.com or call 647-722-6298

FOR SALE SERVICES

FOR SALE WORSHIP

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 WORSHIP: Worship with us at Solid Rock Miracle Center 689 Warden Ave at 11am .

Sunday school at 10.05am. 416-293-1839

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Your Horoscope - June 17th 2015 ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

Sometimes you just can’t hold back; sometimes you just don’t want to. Now through mid next week thrusts you into action. There are things that need to be said and things that need to get done. Whether you choose the moment or it chooses you, an air-clearing brings relief. Sunday onward, you could hear, witness, or find the unexpected.

Dwelling on loss is unproductive. Instead, put your all toward moving it forward from here. Rather than banking on a hope or a someday, you are wise to make this moment “the moment”. The now is both a fork in the road and a key stage-setting time. Saturn’s dip back into Scorpio underscores the importance of improving your aim and your game.

Sun/Mars acts as a heating influence. A positive stimulant, it keeps the excitement and enthusiasm going strong. You’ll stay physically active and especially quick on the ball.

Sun/Mars can also inflame or keep reactiveness on the quick dial-up. The next few days can set you on a hunt, an adventure, or a warpath. Tuesday’s new moon also provides fresh fuel.

A weekend getting away from it all could be as close to heaven as you can get. Surrender to the moment, let the creative or romantic muses play, let the time disappear. Sun/Mars and Chiron can open your heart and soul in some poignant way. Through the middle of September, Saturn’s revisit of Scorpio helps you to refortify, replenish, and recharge. Mid next week thrusts you into full swing.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

At work or working through it, the next few days could be quite profitable. Something unplanned or unscripted could make your weekend. Sun/Mars can set wheels in faster motion and/or colour it in for you in a way you didn’t anticipate. Saturn’s dip back into Scorpio marks an appropriate time for home, family, business, or soul renovation projects.

Did you lose ground, money, or time during Mercury retrograde? You’ll make great gains on life now. In fact, it’s springboard time. Sun/Mars and Tuesday’s new moon offer a great energy boost to all fresh-start initiatives. Has the answer, explanation, solution, or resolution eluded you? Saturn’s revisit of Scorpio can help you gain insight, perspective, and/or a renewed sense of cando.

Planned or not, a busy and eventful few days lie ahead. In fact, you could find yourself in a marathon. It’s a great weekend for travel, socializing, an open house, garage sales, shopping, scouting, or cutting yourself loose. On a get-down-to-business note, Saturn’s revisit of Scorpio calls for better control over money matters and personal goals.

Where there’s a will, you’ll find a way. The end of Mercury retrograde can clear up a dilemma and make your choices or options a lot clearer, perhaps unexpectedly so. Don’t hesitate to ditch a plan in favour of another.

Someone could act as an agent or a catalyst.

Once the impulse, inspiration, or moment strikes, there’s no backtracking; you’ll hit the fast track. Impulse spending or unexpected expenses could add up quickly.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Over the weekend, sun/Mars could reheat a conversation. They’ll provide a strong second wind for a plan, a project, or a budding relationship. Spur of the moment or stream of consciousness delivers best. Saturn’s dip back into Scorpio, starting Sunday, will give you several more months to get your bearings. There’s no need to bide time, though: Tuesday’s new moon boosts social and financial prospects.

It’s a run-around, one-thing-after-another weekend. You can get pulled into it unwittingly and/or bite off more than you can chew. Sun/Mars stays triggered through Sunday. It isn’t about the words, but what’s conveyed through body language. Saturn’s backtrack gives you another go of it or shot at it.

Sun/Mars sets up an action-packed weekend.

An event or quick trip out of town gives you plenty to talk about later. Meeting someone for the first time? Instant rapport is an excellent sign. Through mid September, Saturn’s revisit of Scorpio gives you an extension.

See it as an advantage.

The spotlight is on home and family this weekend. Visits with friends, hosting students, showing your rental, or the search for new digs can keep you going with one thing after another right through Monday.

Saturn’s revisit of Scorpio continues to urge you to look for a new source of income and/ or to make a significant lifestyle change.

March 20 - April 19

July 22 - August 22

November 22 - December 21

April 19 - May 20

August 22 - September 22

December 21 - January 19

May 20 - June 21

September 22 - October 23

January 19 - February 18

Across 4) Old unit to measure grains 6) Fields of yellow 7) Not enough rainfall 8) For dairy or meat 10) Giant round bales 11) Bring in the crops 13) Bacon or ham 14) Old and had a farm, E-I-E-I-O 16) No pesticides used 17) Big red building Down 1) Land left to rest 2) Common grain 3) Starting points for plants 5) Hired helper 6) Egg producers 9) Water transport systems 12) Heavy hauler 15) Kernels on the cob

June 21 - July 22

October 23 - November 22

February 18 - March 19

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Wednesday, June 17, 2015 31

Planning to rent out your home during the Pan Am and Parapan Am Games?

Restrictions under personal insurance property coverage Sherene Cole

CIP, CRM, CAIB, LLQP

Insurance Matters

Short-Term Home Rental: RENTAL PERMISSION RIDER Insurance companies anticipate that some policyholders may be considering the short term rental of their home to visitors of the Pan Am Games (July) and Parapan Am Games (August) across

the province of Ontario. In order to provide policyholders with protection in the event that their entire residence is temporarily rented out during this event, some are offering Rental Permission Riders.

Keep in mind that renting a portion of your home to roomers or boarders not directly related to you is currently a policy exclusion under most property insurance policies covering the principal residence of the policy holder.

• Rental of the entire residence. In recognition of the increased exposure, certain coverages relating to missing personal property or theft of personal property from the insured’s residence may be restricted.

What you need to do if you plan to rent

out your home or a portion thereof: 1. Talk to your broker and explain what your plans are. You will need to consider things like: • the number of new occupants you plan to allow onto the premises • the duration of the change in occupancy or occupancies.

2. If you are given the all clear from your insurance representative to proceed: • Plan to remove valuables from the premises while the dwelling is rented to protect their interests during the period as the coverage is limited.

• Be diligent in tenant selection • Ensure the dwelling is properly looked after during your absence.

3. If your residence is a condo, review the bylaws with respect to renting and leasing restrictions or requirements.

Auto Ride-Sharing Did you know that under the standard Ontario Automobile Policy (O.A.P. 1), when a private passenger vehicle is used as a taxicab, bus, a sightseeing conveyance or to carry paying passengers, coverage is excluded? If you are using or planning to use your private passenger type vehicle to participate in a ridesharing service like Uber, please refer to The Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) recently published ride-sharing notice on their website. For more information, visit: fsco.gov.on.ca.

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The secret to how your mind works - Part 2 Noel Walrond Professional Development In the last article I spoke on the power of the mind. You choose your thoughts, your thoughts cause your feelings, your feelings are expressed through your body in your actions, and your actions produce your results.

We’re going to go a little deeper on this concept.. (if you missed part 1 please go and check out the archives from June 3rd 2015 online at torontocaribbean.com) When you make a determination that there’s a new standard for what is ok and what is not ok, you are in effect creating a new “standard” for yourself. As this new standard or “rule” takes root in you, it becomes a part of your new belief system. Anything that you think you are, or are not good at also becomes a part of your belief system. If you’ve got conflicting beliefs about something, it becomes a mental tug of war. This brings about the feeling of being “STUCK”. You know you “should” be taking a certain action, but yet you hold back.

For example, there are people who would like to earn more money, or learn how to gain huge returns on investments, but they don’t believe in their ability to acquire it, manage it, and invest it properly. They say to themselves… “I’m not good with numbers”. or “I don’t understand how investing works..it’s too complicated”. They don’t realize that by making those internal statements to themselves they

have created a belief system that creates a mental blockage. Whatever thought is impressed on the subconscious mind must be expressed through the body. That belief system can create a hesitation in a person to seek out the resources or counsel of others who could teach them the processes of how the money game works and as a result they stay in the position they are in and ultimately blow the chance of having a more prosperous future.

For those who do take the step to sit with a professional, but have the idea in their mind that they are not good at learning new concepts, their mind begins to shut down during the conversation. Feelings of stress, anxiety, and frustration begin to set in. Sometimes it gets to be so overwhelming that the person retreats and says “I’m not ready” or “I can’t do this”. Again..robbing themselves of potentially great opportunities. Some people in the same scenario are afraid to ask questions because their belief is that “I may look stupid by asking this question”…so they proceed with a transaction, not fully understanding what they are doing and end up in some cases making a poor decision that leaves them in a position where they lose money. The belief or the program internally is what needs to change. We need to train our brains to believe that we can learn ANYTHING we commit to. We need to adopt the mindset that smart people get smarter by asking questions. We need to adopt the new mindset that states.. “The ONLY dumb question is the one I DON’T ask”. There are no such things as dumb questions. If you don’t ask, you can’t learn.

Most of the rich people I know, go through a process of “due diligence” before investing in anything. Due diligence is just a fancy term for saying “they ask a lot of questions”. They analyze every single angle before pulling the trigger. That is how they learn and avoid getting burned. Nobody is born KNOWING how to do everything. They had to learn and it wasn’t always comfortable. There were times that it was

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an internally challenging process. It is a price that must be paid if you want to advance in this life. It has been said that “If you think education is expensive, you should see how expensive ignorance is”. Ignorance is NOT BLISS!!!

To anyone out there who still thinks they are not good with numbers..here’s a question for you.. what is 10 + 10? If you answered 20..good for you! What s 10 x 10? If you answered 100…

Fantastic! Someone may laugh and say “Those are really easy and basic Noel. That doesn’t prove anything.” I beg to differ with you. These were not easy concepts when you first learned them. They became EASY to you because you understand the concept. You heard the concept repeated over and over again. Over time it became common place for you, and any other concept you want to learn will be the same for you if you practiced it.

A concept that is repeated over and over and over after a while becomes like second nature. There was a time when it was difficult for you to learn how to walk, ride a bike, and learn a new language. But after difficulty comes ease. Everything is relative, and difficulty is also relative. Your mind is infinite in its scope and capability and so are you. Our minds would make any super computer on this planet look like a little toy in comparison. The legendary Zig Ziglar said it best…“we were born to win but have been conditioned to lose”.

I’ve been through this process myself.

One example was when I went to one of my mentors seminars. He was teaching us how to edit our own videos. My mental block was that “I’m not good at anything technical”. As he was teaching I began to feel pain in my chest, shortness of breath, felt the urge to go to the bathroom , and head ache began to set in. It was weird because when we left the room on a break all of those feelings went away and I felt fine, but when class resumed, the feelings emerged again. The subconscious mind is very powerful.

The idea that I had unconsciously programmed

in to myself was being carried out by my subconscious. YES you heard me correctly. Whatever is programmed finds different ways to express itself through you on a physiological (the body) level. For some of you it may arise when sharing your inner most feelings with others, expressing that you love or care for someone or public speaking. Some of us shut down totally in these areas. How I got past it was to have a mental conversation “self-talk” with myself.

Remember..the MIND is the parent and the BODY is the child. The children are not supposed to dictate policy in our homes. I said to myself “Noel…you are better than this. You can master ANYTHING you set your mind to.

You are in control. Man Up and let’s get the job done”… I took three deep breaths in, and exhaled slowly. (This calmed me down). Then I refocused my attention on the task at hand. I intentionally went to a few more technical training seminars until I began to feel relaxed, and enthusiastic about learning the concepts. The first two were really tough, but over time it has completely changed. I invite you to give it a try.

Start with something small that is challenging to you. Perhaps it is waking up early, being on time, expressing to someone how much they mean to you, finding a good financial advisor (make sure you don’t leave the meeting without being able to explain what they have shared with you back to them), startup that small business, or recommit to that network marketing business that you really haven’t been taking seriously, or sign up for that course you have been putting off to increase your marketability in the work force so you can increase your income. I share this type of education with my students in my seminars every week.

The breakthroughs that people have been getting are mind-blowing. Take me up on the challenge. Take some action today and email me to let me know how things went. Have a POWERFUL Day!