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HEALTH CARE CHALLENGES

SIMONE J. SMITH/TORONTO CARIBBEAN

“I had to sit down in the hallway in a wheelchair for hours in order to be seen. When it came time for my results, they didn’t even have a room to tell me in privately. I had to hear about what was wrong with me in the middle of the hallway in front of everyone. When they gave me my IV, they didn’t have a pole to put the IV on. They took out IV in the middle of the hallway. They wanted to do it with me standing up, but I said no because I knew I was going to faint.”

I sat there a little shocked at what I was hearing. It was last December of 2019, and Trish Browning and I were talking about her

experience with the William Osler Health System. It was interesting, because that afternoon, I had an interview with Dr. Naveed Mohammed, who happens to be the Executive Vice President of Quality, Medical and Academic affairs at William Osler Health System (Osler). That afternoon, our dialogue was going to be around the current health care system, and the massive changes that are about to occur.

A little background on William Osler Health System, it serves the city of Brampton and the western Toronto district of Etobicoke, which includes: Brampton Civic

Hospital (BCH), and Etobicoke General Hospital. What Trish was telling me has become a reality for residents in Brampton and surrounding areas. Cara Francis and Donna Harris initially gave Toronto Caribbean Newspaper a call to discuss some of the challenges that the hospitals are facing in the GTA. They suggested that I speak with Dr. Naveed Mohammed. He would be able to update me on the future of our healthcare system. That interview stirred hope. Hope that at this time is needed.

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FEATURE

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Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 4, 2020

SASHAGAI RUDDOCK Changing the narrative of a big girl in a big world “People will say that you aren’t perfect. We were all made exactly how we were supposed to be, so I don’t understand how we couldn’t be perfect.” ~ Sashagai Ruddock In a world full of detox teas, weight loss supplements and waist trainers, plus-sized women tend to feel out of place. With social media flooded with stereotypically attractive women, it isn’t uncommon for many to struggle with identity issues. In today’s superficial society, conventional beauty standards are no match for “Toronto’s Fluffy.”

She has many titles under her belt.

Entrepreneur. Fashion blogger. Body-positive influencer. Self-love coach.

In the age of social media likes becoming a form of validation, Sasha strives to assure people of their importance and perfection.

“I like to see the change, that lightbulb moment when they realize, woah! I’m worth it. I’m attractive. I’m gorgeous. I’m beautiful. I’m sexy.”

Unapologetically embracing her beauty, Sasha had experienced bullying like many others growing up. Though unlike most, she held her head high and chose not to let that phase her.

Written by Selina McCallum Toronto Caribbean News

Around twelve years ago was when it all started.

Her online presence began with her original blog,

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Deliciously Fat. She had many ambitions and decided that she needed to rebrand into something bigger and better. “I remember hearing quotes of people saying how nobody wants to see plussized women on the runway and how women want to see what they want to be, not what they are. I remember that sitting with me. I couldn’t believe there were people like that in the media.”

Thus, while sitting in her Brampton kitchen, the handle @flawsofcouture was born.

“I was going through possible names and thinking, okay, they think that we’re flawed people and that’s why we don’t deserve to be on the runway. Runways are made for couture and couture is made for a certain kind of body… but that shouldn’t be true. If you’re a designer, you should be able to make clothes for everyone. The average size of a woman in Canada and America is about a 16-18. How is it that you’re overlooking the majority of women and saying that they don’t belong?”

She continues. “Since they think we’re flawed, then I’ll represent the flaws of couture. I came up with the name, thinking it would just be a light and fluffy name for the blog. But over ten years later, it’s much more than that.”

Born in Canada to Jamaican parents, Sasha would be incomplete without the love of her family. Blessed to be raised by loving and supporting parents, she says they are her “goal, reason, and why.” With her parents still working, she says she will not rest until they can.

A quick scroll through her Instagram page will show you that this woman’s fashion is fearless. With a wide range of colourful outfits and hairstyles to pair with, it’s no wonder she got partnerships with reputable brands like FashionNova and ASOS. As a family-oriented individual, it only made sense that her first fashion inspiration came from none other than her father.

“I definitely get it from my dad. He was the first fashion icon I’d ever seen. Until this day, he can out dress anybody! He’s the sharpest man I’ve ever come across.”

Her love for fashion brought her to be the founder of her own brand, FOC Apparel, an inclusive clothing line ranging from sizes small to 5X. Presenting streetwear clothing, this brand goes against the typical attire for curvy girls.

“When I was younger, I was bigger than a lot of my friends. I would always wear long-sleeves and cover up or want to put a t-

shirt on in the pool. I know what that life was like and seeing so many girls live that life today.

I just want to free them! FOC Apparel is a way of freeing them from that version of themselves and allowing them to realize that their bodies are beautiful. They should be able to show it off just the same.”

A clothing line that is absolutely not for the faint of heart, she offers several variations of bikinis, bandeaus, cropped sweaters and shirts.

“We don’t want to dress like grandparents! It’s insane to me that in 2020, people still think that plus-sized women need to be covered up. This line is for the girl who’s ready to let go of people’s opinions and embrace her body.”

Along with her outstanding fashion brand, Sasha is co-founder of Nu Ave Nails, a pop-up nail shop and training school featuring all black nail technicians. She, along with her business partner, noticed a worldwide trend of black women being treated terribly in non-black owned salons.

“Black women are always doing long, inventive nails and dropping cash – there is no other race that spends as much money as black women in nail salons. Yet, we’re disrespected on the highest regard. Why should we continue to subject ourselves to this kind of treatment when we’re the ones who carry the power? So, we created a shop, took appointments and wined and dined the ladies, as they should be.”

While promoting the importance of loving yourself, Sasha also uses her platform as a safe space for open dialogue surrounding relationships and sexual health. With segments like #HealthyHoe and #LiveAfterDark, she encourages tough conversations that society does not have enough of.

“I feel like women should be liberated and happy to have sex. It should be okay and open to speak about sex. It’s the way to be the healthiest version of yourself.”

As she enters her 30s, Sashagai Ruddock is only just getting started. Being the voice for those who are too timid, she wholly represents what it is to be confident and continues to be an inspiration for many. She aspires to live her best life with zero regrets.

“My advice for people is to free yourself from people’s opinions. I want to live a life where I can look back and say “I did everything! I was serving looks, I was feeling myself, skin was glowing, fupa and all.”

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Wednesday, March 4, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

NEWS

PAGE 3

A government by the people, for the people; Carifika hosts Community Town Hall Meeting DAVE RANKIN dave@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The Member’s Lounge at City Hall was the setting of Carifika’s inaugural Town Hall Meeting this past Saturday, the 22nd. As I entered the building, I was promptly reminded by its décor that this is the place where decisions for our city and its citizens are made. Where politicians rally around their constituent’s claims and hit or miss attempts at tackling society’s woes are usually presented to us in sound bites and feelings of being left out are the result.

It was also the place where communication between community members took place, to seek the necessary steps towards unity. “We want to work with

people who have organizations or are a part of something that want to work with us,” stated Chairman & CEO of Cairifka, Yuri Hutchinson.

The attentive audience listened as moderator Andrea Da Silva first introduced the panelists: • • •

Ryan Knight, President of African Caribbean Business Network DeWitt Lee, President of the Black Voter Base Yuri Hutchinson, Chairman & CEO of Carifika

Organized in small groups, members of the audience began to write questions down and had an opportunity to present them to the panelists. The topic of police brutality and the case of Defonte Miller, the young man who lost an eye at the hands of one of Toronto’s ‘finest’ and his brother; then an attempted cover up by various departments, was raised first.

“Is a large black presence (at the

judgment hearing on April 9th) valuable?”

A presenter queried. This is where the audience was reminded that the strength of the community is in the strength in numbers and that if possible, rally around the young man by attending the judgment in person.

Strategies around handling racism have always been a challenge for our community. The idea of creating a list of “right contacts” could lead to the implementation of policy and procedures and could be beneficial. However, all of this would have to be “Built through one system,” Yuri responded. From the production of an African Educational Curriculum, to Health and Wellness, to Economic Prosperity, it all would need to be systematic.

The Town Hall Meeting reminded me of a chapter the great scholar Chancellor Williams wrote in his work, ‘The Destruction of the Black Civilization.’ He elaborated on what he called An African Constitution, a birthplace of democracy. This was “Not a theory, but a government by the people; and it was a government for the people,” Baba Williams elucidated. A cooperative

experience is something that Africans in the diaspora have since longed for. There’s no doubt, the community has wanted a steering committee that will represent, and act based on “The rights of the community.”

Members of the audience, which was predominately represented by our queens continued to state our concerns.

It was surprising to notice that our men didn’t have much of a presence. But as the saying goes, “where the women are, the men will follow.”

Those in attendance did just fine in making sure actionable items such as the breakdown within the family and how this newly formed organization is present within the community, were addressed.

The inaugural meeting was a birthplace for Carifika to show the community that they are here and willing to put the pieces of this puzzle together for “The Will of the People.”

For more information about Carifika, visit them at www.carifika.org.

NEWS

PAGE 4

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Staying true to their Vision; Citizens for the Advancement of Community Development Black History Month Closing Celebration SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

“Black History Month is Canadian history.

You have to know where you are coming from, to know where you are going.” ~ The Honourable Dr. Jean Augustine It was incredible to watch them work.

Ron Cunningham was frontline, heading up the Citizens for the Advancement of Community Development Black History Month Event. Behind the scenes, with such exquisite poise, Sonia Cunningham was holding down the fort.

Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited to be a part of the Black History Month Celebrations being held at Larry Taylor Auditorium located in the Mississauga Valley Community Centre.

CACD had managed to squeeze their celebration in on Thursday, February 27th, to bring to a close a momentous Black History Month.

I won’t lie. Canada’s winters have a funny way of training your brain to shut down when you feel the cold. I overcame the want to stay indoors, and ventured out to Mississauga. I was pleasantly sur-

prised to see that the room was full. What was even more impressive was that 60% of the audience was young people, ages seven to eighteen. It definitely lent credence to the work that CACD continues to do in the community.

Founded in 2002, Citizens for the Advancement of Community Development has kept true to their vision. They have developed a community/educational centre in close proximity to: schools, police facilities, health clinics and other structural organizations (Mississauga Valley Community Centre).

CACD is a registered charitable organization that is dedicated to transforming the lives of at-risk youth. They do so by offering them a wide range of innovative programs that: develop leadership capabilities, fosters civic participation, and serves the unique needs of the individual.

The work first began in Jamaica.

Ron and Sonia observed the myriad of challenges that at-risk youth were facing: delinquency, criminal activity, civic inactivity, and teen pregnancy. The fear was that these issues were creating a generation of youth that were: educationally, mentally, socially, and spiritually impoverished. To combat that, they brought the work they did in Jamaica to Canada, and now CADC has developed programs to: empower, educate, support and integrate youth. Some of these programs include: • Mentoring programs designed to develop the skills necessary for success

• •

•

Workshops on life skills and crime prevention Counselling, employment training, workshops in financial literacy, resume assistance and interview preparation Teaching the acceptance of all the groups that enrich Canada’s diverse cultural landscape

This tremendous work can only be achieved if you have a solid team behind you. This team includes board members: • Weslely Mckezie (Chair of the Board) • Rainford Cornish (Deputy Chair) • Marva Dennis (Treasurer) • Ariba Baig (Secretary) • Emily Stanionis, (Officer) • Dylan Pereira (Officer) I applaud the team for what they did with this event. The efficaciously pulled the community together to present a day filled with special activities, and at night the community was entertained with: musical and dance performances, a moving spoken word performance by a young man name Wali Shah, African drumming and singing, speeches from Members of Parliament, and finally a keynote address from the admired, and well-respected Dr. Jean Augustine.

In her keynote address, Dr Jean Augustine took us through her journey.

She reminded us that in her time, they did not have a Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The Human Rights Code was not

in existence. Landlord and Tenant Act, yeah right! There were no black faces on television. You couldn’t have an accent if you wanted to be on radio or television.

“It was important for us to be activists in the community. The time was ripe for activism.” Dr Augustine explained.

It was an experience. I sat there and listened to her tell the story of why we have a Black History Month, “I asked a colleague of mine how I could get the Black History Month bill passed. He told me that I would have to do a private members bill. This bill would go in a basket and there was a draw.”

This was too much of a chance for her, and she joked that she had never won the lottery up to that point, so she was not going to take that chance.

“I thought to myself, what else could I do?” She was told she could do a motion and ask for unanimous consent.

When she brought this to motion to certain government officials, they told her that Parliament would not consider this important. She stood her ground, and regardless of the jeers, the snickering, and the comments, the motion for Black History Month was passed on December 14th, 1995.

At the end of the night, Dr Augustine presented Ron Cunningham with a copy of the 1995 proclamation of Black History Month. It was an incredible way to end the night. Oh no wait! Did I mention that we all got to eat together after? How could I forget that?

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Wednesday, March 4, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Continued From Page 1 -- The reality is, all hospitals are seeing a high volume of patients: admitted and emergency. The hospitals haven’t kept up with the population growth. This is scary, especially with the recent COVID-19 scare. As of Sunday, March 1st, 2020, the Ontario.ca website released the following updates on patients approved for COVID-19 testing to date: Negative = 739 Currently under investigation = 22 Presumptive positive = 1 Confirmed positive = 3 Resolved = 3 (Number updated at 10:30 am each morning) On February 28th, 2020 at 11:03 A.M. Dr. David Williams, Chief Medical Officer of Health confirmed a new positive case of COVID-19 in Toronto, which makes the seventh case in Ontario. After arriving in Toronto on February 25th, 2020, a man in his 50s presented himself at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre’s emergency department on February 26th, 2020 with a travel history to Iran.

The question the community might consider asking is, what is the government doing to make things better for our citizens, especially when it comes to health care? Not only during a pandemic, but when it comes to our day-to-day lives? This is the time of year that changes happen in the health care system. People start using hospitals more due to closures of walk-in clinics. Emergency rooms are full with overload. There is a strain on hospital systems.

On December 6th, 2019, the Ontario Government announced that the Brampton and Etobicoke would be home to one of the province’s first Ontario Health Teams (OHT). For the community, we can think about it like a central hub. Services available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and staffed by health care professionals. These professionals will be able to provide answers to the community about home care and social services available in the region. Imagine

“We have some of the lowest numbers of hospital beds in the country. We are dealing with an aging population; there is an increase in chronic diseases; we are admitting a lot of people, and there is an imbalance.�

“We have had to turn to unconventional healthcare practices. Hallway medicine is unpopular, but it is a reality in many hospitals. We do not want our patients there, but at the same time, we don’t want to send them home. It can make for a very anxious environment. Our professionals do their best to work with families through some of these anxieties.�

I thought back to my discussion with Trish. What he said seemed to match what she had told me. Dr. Mohammed continued, “New hospitals are built, but not enough to keep up with the demands of the community. As doctors and nurses, we try to treat everyone to the best of our ability.

There is a strain, but despite this, our hospitals have some of the best wait times. We are not letting challenges stop us.�

“The Ontario Health Teams is being formed to give the community better access to specialists, physicians and nurse navigators. You’re talking about 24 organizations; 186 partners strategically building evidence-based care pathways to ensure an improved health care experience. It will be one network to care for patients. It will be integrated health care. When our patients leave the hospital, we won’t send them out and say bye! We set things up for them, including follow up appointments, and specialist visits.�

Dr. Mohammed strongly believes that if we can build this across the province, we won’t need to worry about more beds.

The health care system will be structured so that they are working with patients before they get into that situation. “It will be the end of hallway health care,� Dr. Mohammed explained.

Members of Brampton and Etobicoke have a right to be hopeful. The Government is leading the development of and championing this new model for health care in the province. A system that will support the community and provide a more seamless, integrated health care for the community collectively.

â€

SIMONE SMITH

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Dr. Naveen Mohammed was candid during our interview. He knows the challenges that we all face, but he also offers some hope for the future.

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SELINA McCALLUM salina@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Black History Month in North America is a time for reflection and celebration of the black impactful and powerful leaders that paved the way for black people to be liberated. However, it is not often that black leaders who are also a part of the LGBTQ community are discussed too.

On Wednesday, February 19th, Caribbean Tales Film Festival held a LGBTQ Night at the Royal Cinema as part of their events for Black History Month.

They have been holding a Queer Caribbean segment for the last 10 years.

Courtney Panchan is the Manager, Sales, Acquisitions & Operations for CaribbeanTales Worldwide Distribution and was the Festival Manager of the CaribbeanTales International Film Festival in 2019. She says that it is important to include everyone.

“We feel like what we’re doing here is showcasing ourselves on the screens, so if we’re not going to show all of ourselves then why show anything,” said Panchan.

They screened the highly controversial movie from Kenya, Rafiki, which means ‘friend’ in Swahili, as well as two short films from Jamaica and Trinidad and Tabago.

The first short film screened was Please See Attached directed by Andrei Pierre. The movie is about a young and noble man named Maurice who may be the next Vice Principal of the school he teaches at, however, when the school board steps in to make changes, he’s left to make some bold decisions.

The second was a short documentary called Judgement Day directed by Francesca Hawkins. In 2017 Jason Jones, a human rights activist, filed a historic constitutional motion against the state, challenging colonial-era antihomosexual laws in Trinidad and Tobago.

The case opens up unrest between activists and politically powerful religious groups.

Rafiki is a 2018 Kenyan drama about a romance that grows between two young women, Kena and Ziki, amidst family and political pressures around LGBT rights in Kenya. As homosexuality is illegal in Kenya, the film was banned.

It was banned by the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) according to “its homosexual theme and clear intent to promote lesbianism in Kenya contrary to the law”. Even if someone was found with the film, they would be breaking the law, and could end up serving 14 years in jail.

In September of 2018, the Kenyan High Court lifted the ban on the film, allowing it to be screened in the country for seven days. After the ban was lifted, the film was shown to a sold-out crowd at a cinema in Nairobi.

Panchan says she was glad to be a part of including an LGBTQ night when there are not many events around the

city that focus on the black and queer community for Black History Month.

“I was very happy to bring this during Black History Month because I feel like it is part of our history and our story.

It’s something that’s been suppressed and it shouldn’t be. So I feel like tying it into Black History month was extremely important,” said Panchan.

Rarely, does a majority of the community remember the black leaders who made a difference that were also queer. A few leaders who were queer and a part of black history are Richard Bruce Nugent, an artist during the Harlem Renaissance, Alvin Ailey, an award-winning choreographer, and Audre Lourde, an activist and writer.

One of the audience members came to see the films with her husband, who together have been long time supporters and donors of Caribbean Tales.

“My husband and I donate every year and we always purchase a ticket to the screenings. Then we come home and talk about what we’ve watched,” said Edwina Bascombe-Buhnai.

She mentions one thing that may change the way some people view the LGBTQ community.

“People’s mindset. Yes, I’m Christian, but at the same time, I think people misconstrue reading the bible because my thing is, God says we are all his children, so regardless of what side of the coin you go on, you’re still his child,” said Bascombe-Buhnai. “I think if people give it a chance, and try to support these people, it will be fine.”

Rayzalution is Toronto’s all-female kick ass band MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

What is Rayzalution? Where are they from? What do they do? Rayzalution is an all-female reggae band from Toronto.

This band promises not only harmonic music but an influential experience you’ll never forget.

The band started in 2016 and has just completed the first leg of a US tour with reggae legend Marcia Griffiths and there are plans to do more work with her.

The band is comprised of a group of brilliant women: • Vocals: Monique • Drums: Leah “Likkle Bit” • Bass: Cee Cee Knight • Guitar: Indiyah • Keys: Gemini Royze • Keys: Lisa Lyrix It is said that this powerhouse of versatile female musicians has the ability to mesmerize their audiences with the

very first note. Their repertoire consists of original tunes, cover songs of classics as well as present-day reggae hits to keep a wide variety of music lovers on the dance floor nonstop.

Positivity and conscious lyrics are their trademark while still showing their audience that it’s good to have fun. Rayzalution has a unique sound blending reggae with other Caribbean and Western flavors of music, generating something diverse for the Canadian Reggae Music Industry every time.

Their purpose is to represent and showcase female musicians and bring the love and togetherness that is needed so badly in these times. That is exactly what happened on Saturday, February 29th, at the Local44 Kitchen and Bar located at 41 Milner Avenue.

Scarborough. The doors opened at 9:00 pm and the show started at 10:00 pm.

Toronto Caribbean Newspaper had a chance to speak with Andre Blenman before the event. Andre is the promoter behind the Uptown Soul Unplugged Reggae Series that featured Rayzalution. Besides being a promoter for over a decade, Blenman is also a program coordinator for a non-profit youth program called Youth Assisting Youth, which helps at-risk youth.

Blenman was asked what’s in store for the public on February 29th, to which he answered, “We are looking to

give an experience of reggae music. You know, just island vibes. Considering its wintertime, patrons will have an opportunity to dine as well as enjoy the show, there is seating available, or if you just want to come and dance you can do so as well.”

This promoter told Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, “I would like to do imported acts in the future, but for now my focus is on homegrown talent. I have worked with Michie Mee, Choclair, Natasha Waterman and other Canadian artists. I am a person that is connected to different talents and I just want to put them on stage.”

When asked why is it so hard for homegrown artists to get noticed here, Blenman answered, “There are a lot of contributing factors to this plight: first there is a lack of venues, then there is the investment that you have to literally put into the artist in order for people to start recognizing them, there are not many places where the music can get heard, and just to get your music played there is competition and politics too.”

This is the reason why we must continue to support our local artists, especially this group of dynamic women.

For more information on this all-female, one of a kind Canadian reggae band you can find them on Facebook and Instagram @Razalution. Canada representing!

LET’S TALK REAL ESTATE

Black History Month Does it include the black and queer community?

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Buju Banton roars in Nairobi EMBUKANE LIBOSSO embukane@carib101.com

KENYA TC REPORTER

KENYA -- Reggae/dancehall star Buju Banton aka Gargamel alongside his enigmatic 10-piece Shiloh Band performed his first concert in Africa following his release from prison on the Valentine’s Day aftermath of Saturday February 15th, 2020 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), Nairobi Kenya. And what a legendary night of destiny it was!

A mammoth crowd turned out to watch Buju Banton and the Shiloh band live on February 15th in Nairobi, Kenya. This was Buju’s second time in Africa, but first time on the continent since he was released from prison in 2018. After such a long period of his absence in the motherland, Nairobians and reggae lovers from near and far all gathered at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre to witness his magic and energy live on stage.

After much anticipation, speculation and two-time postponement of his show, the concert could not have been held in a more fitting location, the central business district of Nairobi. The KICC is an iconic symbol of Kenya.

The opening acts for the night were a mixture of veteran reggae deejays and MCs from Nairobi. DJs Kace, Double Trouble, Juan, and ZJ Heno, backed by MC Advice warmed up the crowd in small snacklike sets before homegrown reggae crooner Lavosti took the stage. Selector Technix and Fyah Mummah Jahmby Koikai followed Lavosti, making this performance her first major live appearance since being released from hospital.

DJ Xclusive and Teargas The Entertainer gave a rousing performance just before Buju took the stage at a few minutes to 1:00 am. Every one of the supporting acts rose to the occasion, performing as if they knew this was one of those ‘Where were you’ moments in history.

First came in members of his band, ‘Til Shiloh’ and the excitement and anticipation peaked. His stage production team ensured everything was seamless. With: dark shades, a gold chain, black t-shirt with matching black shoes, dressed in a greyish Ankara suit with matching sunflower patterns (designed by Kenya’s fashion designer, Looks like Avido), Buju stepped out to a sea of phone lights.

“How are you Africa?” Buju kicked off with a voyage of Peter Tosh’s ‘Mama Africa,’ rendition, sprinkling candid remarks of

his hopes for the motherland. The groovy guitar, backing female vocalist trio (one being Buju Banton’s sister), the soothing chorus and Banton’s chants were the perfect start to the night.

Destiny kicked in to hear his strong voice once again, proud and tall, jumping, raising his hand to the crowd drew such strong emotions from us.

The crowd was excited and in unison lifted their hands back to him. Once again the crowd rose to their feet.

Jumping up and down we sang along to It’s Not An Easy Road, before he broke it down. “Greetings Nairobi,” his thunderous voice echoed. “Greetings Nairobi. Asante. It is my first time here and we just want to share this reggae music with you. “Our voices rose again as we joined him in “Hills And Valleys,” and “Lord Give I Strength.”

“Dancehall is diverse,” Buju reckoned. With that address comes in the powerful discography with “Batty Rider.” After touching a few more dancehall classics, “Mighty Dread,” was an invitation to be uplifted as Rasta. At times, Buju would switch it up by jumping back to take his percussionist spot. The upliftment continued with “Better Muss Come.”

Buju did not let the overdose simmer down. He quickly jumped into “Cry No More,” and “I Wanna Be Loved.” “We want to play something for the ladies. We have to learn to love and appreciate the African woman truly!” The ladies segment crescendo built further with “Browning and Black Woman.”

“Pull Up The Vibes” was such a joy to behold. His message to Africa was clear, “Preserve and love each other. The battle is ahead.”

As the evening energy continued to build, Buju invited out a special guest, Uganda’s Bobi Wine. They shared a warm embrace before breaking down into revolutionary music. They tapped into the magic of music, and what it can do to create change.

He left everything on that stage.

The stage needed that energy and vibration; it needed that spiritual awakening and mystical communication.

Buju Banton’s concert will go down as a milestone in Kenya for the mighty musical genre of reggae. The strong and steady lion spirit we experienced from Banton has given reggae musicians and reggae lovers alike in the 254, a second wind for the genre they deeply love.

While watching Banton on stage, the audience experienced that his deeper message was to unify Africans in the motherland and in the diaspora. Without a doubt, Kenyans will be hoping Gargamel returns back to the motherland sooner than later.

Love and blessings from the 254!

Asante (Swahili word for thank you. Swahili is Kenya’s national language and one of the most spoken languages in East Africa).

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NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Taking us back to a different time; hip-hop royalty speaks during Black History Month SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

This article right here is going to take a lot of you back to a different time, a time when records were $8.99. A time when DJ’s knew the newest records dropped on Thursdays. A time when hip-hop was still hard to find, but was becoming more and more visible. A time where HMV sold cassettes, and when they jammed, we had to use a pen to reel them back in.

Back then, Monolith was known as Lyrical Coalition, Choclair was down

by Pope, and everyone wanted to be like Saukrates. It was all about the Elite Squad, and if Baby Blue was playing somewhere, not only did you know for sure that the show was going to be rammed; it would definitely be a night to remember.

I am sure the hip-hop heads reading this will all remember a time when at

1:00 pm on Saturdays, you made sure that the radio was on so that you could catch The Power Move Show, and then the Masterplan Show at 8:00 pm.

For many, this was the golden age of hip-hop for Toronto. It was a time when T.O. was finally being recognized for the talent that we possessed. This is why when I heard that music journalist and documentary producer Del Cowie was hosting a conversation looking back at the 20th anniversary of Toronto hip-hop, I had to make the trek down to Toronto Reference Library on Wednesday, February 19th, 2020. The panel for the night was the crème de la crème of hip-hop royalty: Jully Black, Kid Kut, Carey Riley, and Solitair. The discussion. Toronto’s deep hip-hop history that can definitely be categorized as urban African history.

As I got off the elevator at the library, I was greeted with memories from my past. Dj Agile was dropping hit after hit, and did so through the course of the night. It was a nice touch. It was nostalgic for the older heads, and a history lesson for the young bucks. Del Cowie started the night by introducing the panel, and from that point on, it was a history lesson for all attendees. Kid Kut reminded us all

what marketing and promotions looked like back in the day; it was definitely an eye opener.

“Basically, I pulled from all my resources growing up; friends and family.

Solitair was on production with me, Jully singing vocals, Kardi – everyone had great material. We were like, these are the people in our city that can go. Let’s team up with these people, get our marketing and production budget behind them, shoot videos, and produce this whole sound to bring Canadian music to the forefront.

When you were touring, you needed to have merch. Oh, we need tshirts? We made t-shirts. Where’s your promotional material? Oh, we need stickers? We made stickers. Okay, what else do you have? Well, we have little rags with our names on it. Whatever it was, we were simply trying a ting.

One thing we must remember; Baby Blue was the blueprint for signing DJs to break records.”

Jully Black spoke directly to the younger generation about what it meant to put in the work. “I’m not a bragger. I like to let the music speak for itself. At the time, there was no social media. If social media were around when we started, it

would have been a different thing. You know what, every time is it’s time. I would not change any of my experiences for the world.”

Finally, Solitair dropped some well-needed wisdom that served everyone sitting in that room. “A lot of these kids don’t care about what you have to show for it. When we came up, we didn’t have anything but the culture. We invested in the culture, we believed in the music and we believed in the power of our voices. A lot of that has gotten lost to materialism.

I think that materialism and capitalism is way more damaging than racism.

There’s a huge generation gap in hip-hop that I think the OG’s perpetuated.

Everyone knows it takes a village to raise a child. The knowledge and the wisdom should get passed down, but it’s been obliterated.”

Yes! His words hit home. I have always been a huge hip-hop fan, and being there that night, even if it was just for a moment, reminded me that hip-hop is still alive. We just have to bridge the gap and revive it.

Kristiana McCarthy wins Miss Teenage Ontario 2020!!

“You can come from nothing and become everything!”

JONELL PANTLITZ jonell@carib101.com

TC JR. REPORTER

I had the pleasure of speaking to a phenomenal 18-year old Trinidadian beauty born in our very own Scarborough, Ontario. This young woman has recently been given the honour of being crowned Miss Teenage Ontario 2020. With this title, she is given a platform that she intends to use to create a positive change, not only in her community but also across the nation. Listening to this young woman speak I could hear the passion in her voice that she has for her community and giving back to so-

ciety.

Kristiana McCarthy is surprisingly new to the pageant world. She made her pageant debut in 2019 where she placed 1st Runner Up in the Divali Nagar pageant in Trinidad and Tobago. She won best sari, best hair and best talent. She has also been dancing professionally for nine years. According to the new winner, “I applied for the Miss Teenage Ontario pageant without the expectation of winning and more for the experience and to help build my portfolio.” Kristiana is now the very first IndoCaribbean young woman to place 1st in this pageant.

Listening to her speak and looking at her, you could never imagine her story.

Her parents had split up when she was just a kid. She went through the court system, Children’s Aid, and back and forth between both her parents. She was physically abused and alcohol in her family played a role in that. Kristiana told Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, “Honestly, just going

through the whole back and forth thing, I realize I had a very unstable life. I used to run away from home. Some days it was so bad, it came to the point where I was on my own and doing things all for myself.”

With everything that Miss Kristiana has gone through she tells me, “I am just trying to empower other women who go through difficulties. I want to help women push through domestic violence and intersectional feminism. As a woman of colour, the concept of intersectional feminism is important to me.”

Kristiana continues, “My biggest challenge right now is ageism,” she explains. “I’m pretty young. I feel that a lot of people are not willing to hear me out.

When I’m going to all these big companies, and they see a brown skin colour girl walk in and she’s talking about charitable organizations; they are not giving me the time of day.”

She also has a passion for helping sick kids and raising funds for children.

This interest sparked from her experience in the hospital. According to Miss Teenage Ontario, “I want to raise funds to donate to the Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada.”

Kristiana is looking for sponsorships and donations, from various benefactors and companies. She hopes that others find interest in her cause and social movement.

Miss Teenage Ontario 2020’s advice to anyone considering being a part of this pageant is, “Be the best version of your self.

Push yourself to your limits and have confidence in who you are! There is no one who can be a better you, so this is the opportunity to be the best version of you!”

Kristiana wants people to know that a girl who came from nothing can become anything. She aspires to be a positive role model for the young female generation. You can contact Kristiana McCarthy @ KrissyyMccarthyy on all social media platforms.

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NEWS

PAGE 11

New anti-bullying prevention and reporting Initiatives launched by PC-government PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The issue of bullying has taken centre stage in the government’s newly revised Health and Physical Education curriculum for grades 1 to 8, which was launched last year. This updated curriculum (a modification of the previous HPE) by the previous Liberal government) made minor changes. There is an emphasis on cyberbullying, cyber security and privacy necessitates. The Ministry of Education is inaugurating new actions to further combat bullying in schools.

Bullying is a serious societal and social issue. It impacts the lives of many youth in this social media age. According to the Education Act, it is defined as “Aggressive

behavior that is typically repeated over time.

It is meant to cause harm, fear or distress or create a negative environment at school for another person. Bullying occurs in a situation where there is real or perceived power imbalance,” (www.Ontario,ca/laws/statute/90e02).

This definition encompasses different forms: Physical, verbal, social, written and electronic.

Electronic bullying or cyber-bullying is an issue that many young people are exposed to because of their increased screen time on social media. Cyber bullying is electronic communication that: • Is used to upset, threaten or embarrass another person • Uses email, cell phones, text messages and social media sites to threaten, harass, embarrass, socially exclude or damage reputations and friendships • Includes put downs, insults and can also involve spreading rumours, sharing private information, photos or videos or threating to harm someone • Is always aggressive and hurtful Cyber-bullying is a serious issue. There have

been several well-publicized youth who have committed suicide. According to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), approximately 29% of Ontario children reported being bullied at school in a 2011 study.

The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) 2017 Student and Parents Census Data revealed that almost 38% of high school girls, compared with 26% of boys, use social media 24/7.

The Minister of Education, Stephen Leece made the announcement of the new anti-bullying initiatives on November 27th, 2019, which is intended to improve the safety and well-being of students. These steps include; • The assignment of Christina Mitas to advise the Minister of Education on matters with a focus on bullying prevention • A province-wide survey to better understand students’ experiences with bullying • Training of educators in anti-bullying and de-escalation techniques • A review of school reporting practices on bullying • A review of the definition of bullying in

ministry polices to ensure it reflects the realities of today According to the Minister “We are taking action to root out bullying in our schools with one aim; keeping Ontario’s students safe. We are working to change the culture to one where everyone sees the inherent dignity and the value of a person, irrespective of their faith, heritage or orientation or race or their income, to build a more accepting and inclusive province.”

In order to accomplish these steps, the government hopes to consult with diverse stakeholders who are interested in this issue across the province. It hopes to develop short-and long-term strategies to counter bullying among students. According to MPP Mitas, “We want kids impacted by bullying to reach out and for them to know that they are not alone. We will have an obligation to make sure that our schools are safe and inclusive places that foster learning while keeping the nurturing of the whole child in mind.”

There is much that the Ministry of Education hopes to get done to address cyberbullying.

Collectively, we have the power to create change!

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

“The Power of ONE is not about an individual. It is about all of us coming together and understanding that collectively, we have the power to create change. It can start with just one action. It can start with one word.” ~ Sara Singh, MPP (Brampton Centre)

Interesting! I had a chance to speak with MPP Sara Singh during the 5th Annual Power of ONE Showcase, and during our discourse, I mentioned to her that even though I was in a room filled with diverse cultures, races, religions and ideologies, there seemed to be such a sense of community. Her response to me was; “One small gesture can have such a positive impact and that’s why we need to be doing more events like this in our communities. We need to be thinking about how in one action, one word, one gesture, we can change the course of someone’s life. We all have the ability to do that, but we all need to do that in order to collectively create the

change we need to see.”

Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited to the 5th Annual Power of ONE Showcase on Thursday, February 20th, 2020. It was held at the Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives in Brampton, Ontario. It truly was a powerful night featuring local artists, singers, spoken word poets, all there to showcase work that highlighted the importance of self-love and celebration of diversity.

The organization behind the Power of ONE Project (Broadening Horizons) has been around since 2012, and is headed up by Nav Singh, a committed, and beautiful young woman with a compelling vision. During the opening speeches, Nav invited all of us to join in the journey of Gurveer Singh – one of the founders of Power of ONE Project – as she quests to raise awareness: around bullying, discrimination, women’s rights and environmental issues.

“Broadening Horizons has been around since 2012. We focus on using art to create change in our community in many different ways and capacities. My younger sister Gurveer Singh is one of the founders of this project, she started it way back in 2012 when Broadening Horizons was starting to get together and she talked to us about stopping bullying.”

“One of the ways she told us that she wanted to stop bullying is by using art.

For Gurveer it was a fashion and art project.

Fashion was the way that she expressed her-

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self and we wanted to continue it to help others learn that way.”

A representative from the Indigenous Network spoke to the empathetic crowd about the need to come together as a community.

“Last Christmas, my 16-year-old niece was being bullied very badly to the point that she took her own life. Seeing the diversity in this room, we need to come together. As Indigenous people, our concept of Mother Earth and all of the people on it is that we are all one. You are all my relations as I am yours. Just because we’re from different continents, speak different languages and have different customs doesn’t mean that we are still not related. What relates us is our humanity.”

While the speeches were happening, I slowly walked around the room to check out some of the activities that people were quietly involved in. I was able to paint my own leaf on a tree that represented who I was. I was also able to write a negative word, or thought, and replace it with a positive word. As I looked at the board, I saw what others had written before me. I was moved by the similarities I found. I was extremely impressed by the interactive theme of the event. It was a strategic way to display that although we might all look a little different, many of us feel and think the same things.

I tuned back in just in time to hear a moving speech by MPP Sara Singh. As an

active member of Broadening Horizons, she works in the background, and serves as a wonderful support to her sisters Gurveer, and Nav. She reminded all of us that this type of work needs to happen, and that as a community, we need to stand up and demand that we are treated the way we deserve to be treated.

“This project in particular is very timely for us. When we started this, there wasn’t a big push for discussions around discrimination or Islamophobia or what we were going through at the PDSB. Some of the words that we would hear from community members shocked us. It showed us that this work was so important.”

“The organization was able to grow because we were able to get support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation through a grant. This has enabled the project to spread throughout the Peel Region into Mississauga, into some parts of Scarborough and other parts of Ontario.”

“This work informs what I bring to the legislature every single day, because I understand the realities of what people in our community are facing. When we talk about racism and anti-black racism, these are not just concepts that I’m throwing out or words that I’m saying in the legislature. It’s because I understand this is the reality that people in our community continue to face.”

PAGE 12

NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Released interim report on Peel District School Board reveals serious concerns PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The provincial study of the Peel District School Board (PDSB) released its interim report on December 30th, 2019 to the Minister of Education, Stephen Leece. It comes four months after the minster announced a formal review of the PDSB to address concerns about equity, anti-black racism and serious issues related to governance, leadership and human resources.

The three reviewers: Ena Chadha, Suzanne Herbert and the last added Shawn Richard were guided by Patrick Case, Chief Equity Officer, and Assistant Deputy Minster who provided administrative support

from the Education’s Equity Secretariat. They were able to compile and analyze feedback that was obtained from diverse stakeholders and consisted of concerned community members, PDSB staff and other individuals.

Throughout December and January, they conducted face-to-face interviews across the Peel area. The last day that they received submissions was on January 24th, 2020. This interim report reflects this period.

There were several challenges that the reviewers encountered, especially from those of the African-Canadian community as is noted, “Some community members, in particularly the black community, have expressed concerns about the process, suggesting that a more comprehensive deeply consultative and conciliatory approach will reveal the problematic dynamics with the PDSB.” The interim report unveiled troubling aspects of deeply entrenched communication barriers that prevent many communities from being able to gain access to the board personnel.

In addition, many of the lived experiences and stories that were shared to the

reviewers were such that, “We have consistently heard painful accounts of traumatic experiences that speak to systematic and historical disparities between and across racial, ethnic and cultural groups with respect to access to programming, services, academic achievement, transitions to postsecondary education and the workforce, hiring and promotions as a well as discipline measures both in education and employment. The narratives shared with us signal a profound lack of relationship, demonstrated by stories of marginalization, discrimination, different behaviour and harassment.” This is truly troubling in light of the community the PDSB’s se rves.

There is still much that the reviewers expect to do as they look to engage the South Asian community in further consultation sessions. This is to ensure that there is diverse community feedback from other concerned individuals. The reviewers anticipate, “Making recommendations that will directly identify barriers to students and staff progress and also contribute to establishing conditions for the PDSB to: create, strengthen and sustain meaningful,

transparent processes for community participation.” This is important to ensure that the affected communities are able to maintain: dialogue, contact and interaction so that their issues, concerns and challenges are not overlooked.

On January 27th, 2020, The Minister of Education, Stephen Leece responded to the interim report, “I have met with Peel students to hear first-hand their lived experiences and to better understand the challenges they face. I have also met with the reviewers earlier this month to better understand their observations of systemic anti-black racism and lack of adherence to governance, leadership, and trustee conduct as well as human resources practices. I believe students and families deserve better. It is my hope that the final report will build momentum for the transformational change racialized families are seeking after a period of inaction.”

The minister is committed to ensuring that the PDSB becomes an inclusive, equitable and safe place for all students, staff, community members and other diverse stakeholders.

It isn’t easy being a parent!

Malton Neighbourhood Services provides black family support JONELL PANTLITZ jonell@carib101.com

TC JR. REPORTER

Malton Neighbourhood Services (MNS) have a Parent Communication Program for parents within the black community in Peel. This program is managed by Monique Abbott and is funded by the Ministry of Community Children and Social Services. The program has been running for 3+ years, and according to Monique Abbott, “Over 400 families have been tremendously helped,” by the programs provided by Black Family Support.

MNS is committed to the development and promotion of opportunities for those it serves through the sharing of information and resources, training and education, formation of partnerships, and participating in initiatives that support and empower communities to work collectively on issues to improve the quality of life. The Black Family Support program is developed for parents/caregivers to build on cultural identity, values and practices.

According to Monique Abbott suc-

cess in these programs comes in different ways, “Let’s say a parent has a child in Children’s Aid. The parent will get access to their child because a counsellor has helped them with going to court, advocating, writing letters or helping them with certain skills so they’re able to get their child back.”

Black Family Support provides one on one counselling/advice to black parents on how to support their youth to succeed in their crucially important secondary school years. Parents/caregivers have access to parenting for success support groups and workshops that cover various topics related to parenting black children and teens.

In addition, families will have a structured environment in which they can enjoy an organized drop-in play-based learning environment. Families can meet, share, play and feel supported. MNS’s trained staff are available to support parents by providing them with the right information at the right time. The program is structured to offer parent groups, individual counselling, parenting programs, one-on-one counselling, group counselling, information/referrals, assistance with systems navigation and advocacy.

The Black Family Support also offers a 12-week workshop. These workshops are designed from a cultural supportive framework. They aim to provide an environment in which families from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds within the black community

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Week 9 - Sex and sexuality: Parents will learn how to communicate with their teens about sex-related topics, including healthy relationships, and the prevention of HIV and pregnancy.

Week 1 - Parenting styles: Parents will identify the way in which they were parented, which style they practice and asses the benefits of the different styles of parenting.

Week 10 - Drugs and alcohol: Studies have shown that teenagers who have regular, serious conversations about drug prevention with their parents are less likely to use drugs than those who don’t.

Week 2-3 - Teen identity: Parents will learn about the physical, emotional, mental and social changes that occur during the teen years.

Week 4 - Parent identity: Explore, how we deal with the fear and worry of parenting black children, violence, peer pressure, addictions and teen pregnancy.

Week 11 - Fostering mental wellness: In this workshop parents will learn about the physical and emotional symptoms of mental health concerns, patterns of stress and how stress manifests in their parenting style and behaviour with their children.

Week 5-6 - Systems navigation: It can be difficult at times for black parents to understand and find their way through the educational, health care, justice, community and social service systems.

Week 12 - Self-care and resiliency: This workshop will provide information to parents on how to engage in self-care. Choosing behaviour that balances the effects of emotional and physical stressors and learning how to self-soothe/calm our physical and emotional distress.

Week 7-8 - Interfacing with CAS and police: Educates parents regarding their rights and responsibilities with both the justice and child welfare systems by providing information on navigating both.

These programs are located at 3540 Morning Star Drive, Mississauga, Ontario and 150 Central Park Drive, Unit 301, Brampton, Ontario.

For more information contact MNS at bfps@mnsinfo.org

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Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 4, 2020

If the City of Toronto sees no community benefit from your space, they take it back — learn about Section 37 is frustrated with the hurdles that the City of Toronto has put in front of them for over five years.

“We sued the City of Toronto to protect our rights. During that whole process the city started to come up with measurements to determine if we are maintaining a community benefit, but the problem with that is that they allowed the benefit to be compromised from the very beginning for not allowing Urbancorp to finish the space,� said Faber.

Urbancorp is a developer company which has created and built some of the most modern homes and condominium communities in the Greater Toronto Area.

When Urbancorp delayed work on TMAC in 2014 to prioritize finishing the condo portion of the building, certain things like bannisters and handrails on staircases, covers for HVAC vents, baseboards, door handles and sealed floors were never completed.

When the City interfered in 2015 by instructing Urbancorp not to close with TMAC, it effectively gave the developer a pass to not finish the space, yet still receive their $69.2 million density bonus under the agreement that was made.

In April 2016, Urbancorp went bankrupt.

SELINA McCALLUM salina@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The Toronto Media Arts Centre located at 32 Lisgar St. in Toronto has been battling with the City of Toronto to own their home for years now.

The center and board are made up of four organizations which includes Dames Playing Games, Gamma Space, Charles Street Video and the Canadian Filmmakers Distribution Centre.

These four organizations cover digital media from film to virtual reality.

They also provide opportunities for artists of all backgrounds across the city to learn about gaming software, rent expensive film equipment, showcase their art or film to large communities, and host workshops and events.

However, the city of Toronto claims that they have no impact or “benefit� for the community.

Henry Faber, President of the Board of the Toronto Media Arts Centre (TMAC), and President of Gamma Space

“On top of this whole negotiation process, Urbancorp went bankrupt,� said Faber. “So not only were they bankrupt, but because the city didn’t enforce them to finish the space, and then prevent us from going into it, who’s responsible for all this?�

TMAC is a “Section 37� space which means that they have to follow certain requirements to operate.

The term “Section 37� refers to the section of Ontario’s Planning Act which allows the City to ask for benefits to construct or improve facilities when a development requires a Zoning By-Law amendment.

Section 37 enables the City to negotiate contributions towards local community benefits for development applications that exceed a site’s zoned height and density.

“On one hand, the city can’t say that they are worried about how we’re going to make the space work, while not supporting the space, let alone us,� said Faber.

TMAC continues to show that they can be independent and are constantly building community benefit.

Since April 2018, TMAC hosted more than 450 workshops, receptions, screenings, artist talks, concerts, community and social events plus 45 exhibitions and festivals.

When the city asked them to raise $2.5 million dollars to provide the city with comfort that they are able to establish partnerships and secure private funding to operate the facility, they met that goal in March 2019.

Faber says that the amount of support from the community has been powerful.

“It’s been pretty moving. We posted a single tweet and Facebook post that highlighted Sally Han’s affidavit that said TMAC operations provides a limited benefit to the community and we asked people to say how they feel. Within the first three days we had over 350 letters, and I don’t mean just one or two lines, we received pages from people,� said Faber. “Now we’re almost at 500, and they’re still coming.�

The President of TMAC says that the whole point of TMAC is to be for the community.

“We built this with the community. There’s no other interest other than to support and provide space for the media arts community,� said Faber.

To learn more about Toronto Media Arts Centre and the negotiations, visit https://www.tomediaarts.org/tmaction/

Wet’suwet’en solidarity protests spark national crisis and debate across Canada was expected to move natural gas to the West Coast for export. The pipeline protest has led to the blockage of rail transport and has curtailed the flow of cargo ships, freight trains and highways.

No one could have anticipated that this would result in the Canada-wide stoppage of vital rail services.

The pipeline protest in B.C. rippled across Ontario. According to the Sunday, February 17th edition of the Toronto Star, the Canadian side of the Rainbow Bridge was closed for over an hour as demonstrators walked from Hwy 420 and met up on the Canadian side on Sunday, February 16th. Many protesters carried signs with slogans that read, “Honour our treaty rights,� “Native rights start today,� and “Kill the pipeline; save the land.� Speakers who spoke at the rally referenced the genocide, residential schools, broken promises by government with respect to enforcing treaty rights and lack of positive progress related to the issue of murdered and missing Indigenous women.

In addition, on Saturday, February 15th,

PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Who would have thought that when the pipeline protests began two weeks ago in Wet’suwet’en that it would have resulted in protests across Canada?

The $40 billion Coastal Gas Line pipeline was originally backed by the 20 elected band councils. The decisions by certain hereditary chiefs to oppose the pipeline have ignited varied reactions across Canada. These chiefs have control of approximately 22 000 square kilometres and are adamant that only the band council had judicial author over reserve lands. The Wet’suwet’en territory is located in Northeastern British Columbia and the six billion dollar pipeline RY 10TH

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supporters of the Wet’suwet’en demonstrators stopped all trains from coming in and going out of MacMilan Yard in Vaughan, Ontario. They eventually left in the evening at approximately 5:00 p.m. when there was an injunction presented to them requesting that they leave the rail line.

Organizers addressed the Canadian government stating that it had, “Fundamentally failed to live up to their obligations to meaningful nation-tonation relationships. The recent arrest and invasion of the Wet’suwet’ en Nation has brought to the public’ attention Canada’s false commitment to reconciliation.� Many of the speakers who spoke were clearly upset with federal Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer who targeted them by stating that they should, “Check their privilege.� Many people have also directed their wrath at the Trudeau government for not ending the blockades earlier. Many see his indecision as inaction.

The effect of the blockades continue to linger as it has cut both passen-

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ger and freight rail services, including GO Transit services between Toronto and Barrie. There is no doubt that the economic and financial impact of this blockage will be significant on the Canadian economy. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Friday, February 21st, “We are waiting for Indigenous leadership to show that it understands.

The onus is on them. Let us be clear; all Canadians are paying the price. Some people cannot get to work, others have lost their jobs. Essential goods cannot get where they need to go.�

According to Hereditary Chief Woos the RCMP has, “Increased harassment, made illegal arrests, increased surveillance and monitoring of Wet’ suwet’en people and their invited guests.� There is no end in sight of this perpetual protest, as the issues are complex, longstanding and interrelated. Many critics have stated that the federal government should enforce the rule of law but the question remains, which laws are to be followed.

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PAGE 16

NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Guyana raises a glass to its first official rum route

BY JANIECE CAMPBELL TC JUNIOR REPORTER Rum. A joyful drink produced by distilled sugarcane or molasses that gives you a sensation reminiscent to being at home just after one sip.

With a widespread variance of tastes and aromatic essences, no Caribbean occasion is complete without a bottle or two.

The Guyana Tourism Authority has launched an official rum route in partnership with the Caribbean Tourism Organization. Besides the thrilling experience of a voyage spanning over 200 kilometres, the route exemplifies Guyana’s rich agriculture and local cuisine. “Set along the vibrant coast, the route offers a sensory experience of the role of rum and sugarcane in Guyana’s economy and its indelible mark on the landscape and people,” said Brian Mullis, Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority.

Guyana is the first Caribbean country to establish a heritage route of this kind.

“This program is centered on creating thematic

routes or trails, that tell the story of a destination through indigenous and local goods including foods like: sugarcane, cocoa, spices and other tangible and intangible aspects of cultural heritage,” says Neil Walters, Acting Secretary General and CEO of the Caribbean Tourism Organization.

The new rum route covers three areas that can be explored individually as day or night tours, or combined into a multi-day tour as well.

The tour sites include Georgetown, Berbice and the East Coast Highway; West Coast Berbice and West Coast of Demerara.

Between visiting local rum shops and sampling rum-infused recipes, travellers can expect to learn the history of rum through the exploration of former plantations such as the Uitvlugt Estate and Blairmont Estate. They will also gain insight into the experiences of slaves and indentured labourers who sustained the sugar economy for over two centuries.

The story of rum in Guyana dates back to the 1600s, with the introduction of sugar

cane by early European settlers. With the cultivation of sugar cane along the tropical coastal plains and riverbanks, it wasn’t long before sugar was being produced and shipped to Europe.

The rum breakthrough came once British planters presented the process of distillation. It is a technique of selective boiling and condensation that became so popular that by 1670, every sugar estate had a small still attached to it. By the 1700s, no fewer than 384 distilleries could be counted throughout the country.

As one of the earliest countries to harvest sugar, it was one of the largest sugar suppliers to the British throne. Demerara sugar was much sought after due to the rich sweetness of the sugarcane from the fields along the Demerara River. It became a key ingredient in rum production.

The practice of rum crafting is one that embodies complexity and character. Following a 26-hour fermentation process, the sugary alcohol content is distilled, which is eventually condensed to form liquid rum. The rums are

then poured into 45-gallon oak barrels. Contact with the oak wood causes its golden to deep brown colour and enhanced wooden flavour.

Some rum is left to age for as much as thirty years.

Today, Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) - located on the site of the Diamond Distillery Estate - is the sole rum producer in Guyana. El Dorado – an award-winning brand of rum (previously rated to be the best in the world at the International Wine and Spirit Competition) is one of many products manufactured

by DDL. The liquor blends notes of dark brown sugar with bourbon oak. It continues to deliver a delicious true taste of Guyana.

Over the course of 300 years, a dark and warm tropical spirit heavily rooted in colonialism has become the fuel for Caribbean celebration. Whether served neat or on the rocks, through the endless amount of robust flavours and sweet aromas it possesses, rum has a unique ability to culturally connect all of the islands.

Educate the community to educate themselves; the Black Market & Film Festival •

MKUU AMANI

mkuu@carib101.com

UK TC REPORTER UK -- If you love African art or enjoy wearing African jewelry and beauty products, there’s a popular event in London this spring that could be just right for you.

The 18th Black Market & Film Festival takes place at the West Green Learning Centre in Harringay on Saturday, April 4th, 2020. From noon through to 9:00 pm, the London venue will be buzzing with entrepreneurial activity as a wealth of business owners gather to showcase their products. An array of items will be on display: • • • • •

Beautifully coloured broad beaded necklaces Bracelets and anklets Colourful sandals, shirts and dresses Vibrant kente cloth Luxurious George fabric

African culture will be bursting out from a variety of stalls.

Also included in the program are children’s and adult workshops, as well as two educational presentations and four film screenings. Making its UK debut is, “My People Are Rising,” written and directed by Rafael Flores. Starring: Aaron Dixon, Erica Huggins, Bobby Seale and Elaine Brown, the movie takes the form of a dramadocumentary based on the autobiography of the 19-year-old Aaron Dixon. Tracing Dixon’s journey from his roots to becoming the founding member of the Seattle chapter of the Black Panther Party, “My People Are Rising,” offers an unforgettable tale of ‘triumphs and tragedies.’

Organized by Black History Studies (a self-funded organization) The Black Market & Film Festival is expected to attract up to 500 visitors. In previous years visitors have come from as far as the US and some parts of Europe. The popularity of the event is testimony to the hard work and resilience of the festival’s organizers and the support shown by the community, as Charmaine Simpson, the CEO of Black History Studies, explained, “For the first Black Market & Film Festival that we held in Victoria (in 2012), we underestimated the response. So many people came that we had to look for a bigger venue.”

The search for a larger venue took

them from the Public and Commercial Services Union building in Victoria to Platanos College in Stockwell where, between 2013 and 2015, six events took place. A sudden, unexplained cancellation by the college prevented the April 2016 event, but it returned later that year at the Parkview Academy in Tottenham where it has remained ever since.

“The cancellation in 2016 didn’t dent us,” Charmaine said. “It made the community more determined to support the event. It also started the conversation about how we need our own community spaces. A lot of people were talking about how we can get that. Our conversations were all about supporting businesses, supporting venues where we own the leaseholds, and looking at what happened in a positive light. The next event that we organized sold more tickets and had a bigger attendance.”

The Harringay location has another point of resonance not lost on the organizers.

This year marks the 20th year since the death of the former Leader of Harringay Council and first black head of a local authority in Britain, Bernie Grant. Grant became a joint first black parliamentarian on his election as a Member of Parliament for Tottenham in 1987. He continued to campaign for racial justice and minority rights until his death, a point not lost on Charmaine.

“One of the main highlights of this year’s events is that we’re showing a film

about one of the Harringay Heroes, Bernie Grant. We’re showing a film to showcase that he existed, because there’s a whole generation of young people that didn’t know about the amazing contributions Bernie Grant made in his short life. It’s an amazing short film.” she added, “The last time we screened it, we got an amazing response, so we thought, let’s use this event to highlight his amazing contributions.

We don’t want his name to disappear.”

The Black History Studies maintains a vision of increasing its reach and output. The organization’s mantra ‘Educating the Community to Educate Themselves’ remains central to its aims and objectives and Charmaine’s goal is to build upon what they already do. The Black Market & Film Festival - she suggested - could happen on “A more regular basis.” She added: “It could take place every two months and be held six times per year. Also, it could expand beyond London. We could take it on tour to different parts of the UK and abroad. In Europe, there are huge black communities; we could take it to Paris or Lisbon, Germany or Russia. There are black communities in all of these places, but we haven’t made links with them. And that’s what I want to encourage.”

To find out more about The Black Market & Film Festival visit Black History Studies.

You can also find BHS on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Building an unforgettable experience; the beauty of Port Royal Part II WAZARI JOHNSON wazari@carib101.com

JA TC REPORTER

JAMAICA -- Port Royal already has a lot to offer in terms of unique experiences. Whether it be the: historic ruins of Fort Charles, with the world famous partly sunken “Giddy houses, “ the Port Royal Museum, a variety of restaurants offering culinary treats, boat rides to lime, or just strolling along its beaches and allowing your mind to relax. There is always something to enjoy, but there is always room for improvement and Port Royal has tremendous possibilities.

Below is a list of possibilities that could enhance the Port Royal experience: A Submarine Tour In 1692, a significant portion of Port Royal was submerged under water. The terrible earthquake of that year caused most of its northern

section to be lost, plunging many of its buildings into the sea and some forts were lost.

Fort Charles survived, albeit several of its structures were sunken, evidences of which exist today in the form of the world famous Giddy House. Fort James and Carlisle and Rupert sank into the sea. With much of Port Royal’s real estate and historic ruins being submerged, a submarine tour might prove to be quite lucrative.

In other territories in the Caribbean and the world, submarine tours are doing great. Since 1989, Atlantic Submarines in Hawaii have established a profitable business ferrying tourists under water in a 48-passenger submersible.

Almost one million people paid up to $75 USD for a 45-minute tour around an artificial reef built by Atlantis about a mile off shore. Submarine tours are gaining popularity. There would be so much to see in the waters of Port Royal, and I believe locals and tourists would greatly support such a venture.

An Artisan Village Jamaica’s first artisan village is 75% complete to date, and the Government of Jamaica has great plans for it. This artisan village is part of the Ministry of Tourism’s inclusive growth strategy, which is geared towards assisting local suppliers to increase their earnings from

tourism opportunities.

The artisan village is located in Hampden Wharf, Trelawny. The Minister of Tourism the honorable Edmund Bartlett had this to say, “This artisan village is critical in our reimagining exercise where we are providing opportunities for entrepreneurship at the very base of the population. Tourism will be made more meaningful to the average Jamaican when access is provided for income generating activities and also for creative production.”

This kind of approach to a tourism product is much needed for Port Royal. Tourists visiting that historic village would greatly appreciate an artisan village experience. Here, they can observe pottery being made or even engage in a brief pottery class themselves. They could observe painters in their creative process, sculptors sculpting, or watch baskets being weaved on the spot. Visitors would have the opportunity to purchase these items as souvenirs from their trip.

Themed Restaurants Orlando, Florida is known for its theme parks.

What is also noteworthy is that it also has a lot of themed restaurants, which are in, and of themselves attractions that tourists gravitate towards. Disney recently highlighted Port Royal in a big way in the Pirates of the Caribbean series of movies. This series spawned

new interest about the history of pirates and the era in which they lived.

It is one thing to go to a restaurant, but it is different with a restaurant that is themed. Themed restaurants are a way of providing an experience to remember. In such a place: a concept, a vision, a look and a feeling is worth talking about because it evokes pleasant memories.

Port Royal would do well with themed restaurants giving patrons an idea of what life was like back in the 1600’s.

Public Aquarium A public aquarium is the aquatic equivalent of a zoo. It is used to display and house aquatic life. Port Royal is surrounded by water and the overall ambiance makes it ideal to become the home to a public aquarium.

A public aquarium is not just a place that allows an avenue for recreation, but it will also contribute to the overall economy of Port Royal. Aquariums are bringing in profits of more than $22.5 billion to the U.S. economy. In 2018 they supported 198,000 jobs in the U.S. They also serve more than 200 million visitors worldwide. Something of this nature would greatly boost Jamaica’s tourism earnings.

I really believe that we have treasure here in Jamaica; it is just waiting to be discovered.

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FEATURE

PAGE 19

Medical marijuana: what you need to know

Travelling with cannabis: a guide for Canadians If you’re planning a trip to an­other province or country, you may be wondering whether you can bring a small amount of marijuana for personal use or whether you’ll be able to bring home cannabis products you bought during your travels. Here’s what you need to know.

WITHIN CANADA Since cannabis is legal through­ out the country, you can cross provincial lines with your perso­ nal stash without a problem.

That is, as long as you’re of legal age and don’t have more than 30 grams of dried cannabis in your possession.

INTERNATIONALLY Whether you’re travelling to or from a place

where cannabis is legal, you can’t carry it across the Canadian border. This restriction applies both to recreational and medical cannabis and to any form of the substance.

Note, for instance, that even if you’re entering the United States through a state where marijuana is legal, security checkpoints are under federal jurisdiction, mea­ ning you can’t have cannabis in your possession.

Failing to respect federal regula­ tions could prevent you from entering the country you want to visit, now and in the future.

For more information, consult canada.ca/cannabis.

Cannabis in America: what travelers should know As the steady march toward decriminalization and legalization continues, marijuana is be­ coming increasingly available in the country.

What’s more, cannabis tourism outside the U.S. is continuing to grow in popularity. Nonethe­ less, you should be careful when traveling with marijuana. Here’s what you should know.

FEDERAL LAW If you’re coming back from a cannabis-friendly destination while under the influence, it may result in a few extra questions at the border.

However, it won’t lead to serious trouble unless you’re carrying the drug itself. Note that it doesn’t matter which state you arrive in, as secu­ rity checkpoints are under federal jurisdiction.

This also applies to state lines. You can’t carry cannabis between states, even if both states have legalized it.

REPERCUSSIONS Regardless of a trave­

ler’s point of origin, their destination and the quantity of cannabis they’re carrying, the Trans­ port Security Administration (TSA) has to re­ port infractions to local law enforcement. Be­ cause of this, repercussions can vary widely.

In states where marijuana is legalized, officers may allow travelers to go through security with a small amount of pot. Alternatively, they may ask them to leave it in their car or in an amnesty box located at the security checkpoint.

However, in states like Idaho, South Dakota, Kansas and a few others, attempting to carry marijuana through security could mean se­ rious trouble.

The bottom line is that traveling with cannabis is likely more trouble than it’s worth.

CBD AND PARAPHERNALIA As long as it’s extracted from hemp, CBD is legal, which has been the case since December 2018. However, TSA officials aren’t trained to differentiate between hemp- and cannabis-derived CBD, so carry it at your own risk. As for paraphernalia, you’re likely to run into trouble, or at least to have to sit through a few questions, if it’s found in your possession.

As the decriminalization and legalization of cannabis be­ comes more common worldwide, research into its medical uses has developed considerably. In particular, scientists are interested in which ailments cannabis can relieve and how it should be administered for maximum therapeutic effect.

Here’s an overview of what we know so far.

SYMPTOM RELIEF Cannabis can’t cure any diseases. However, research indi­ cates that some cannabinoids can offer symptomatic relief, although results vary from one patient to the next.

In particular, the drug has been shown to reduce neuropa­ thic and cancer pain. It’s proven particularly effective at re­ ducing the nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.

Furthermore, people with multiple sclerosis report that cannabis can both mitigate the spasms associated with the condition and reduce inflammation. It can also improve the quality of life of patients in palliative care by reducing an­ xiety, pain, nausea and insomnia.

It’s important to note that the majority of studies on the the­ rapeutic value of cannabis aimed to measure its effect on symptoms that were difficult to manage using other treat­ ments. According to many such studies, patients typically report that cannabis is at least as effective as standard treat­ ments, if not more so.

Although further research is needed to establish the medi­ cal benefits of cannabis, it’s been shown to be an effective complementary therapy for many patients.

MANDATORY PRESCRIPTIONS Even if you live in an area where cannabis is legal, you shouldn’t self-medicate. Suppliers who sell recreational can­ nabis typically don’t have the medical background needed to provide patients with reliable advice.

Medical cannabis must be prescribed by a healthcare pro­ fessional who can determine dosage and monitor your use.

If you’d like to know more, be sure to speak to your doctor.

PAGE 20

FEATURE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 4, 2020

the poetic word

DINE WITH ABBY Eating healthy doesn’t

Dear Black Boy

have to be bland

BY GLORIA O’KOYE Dear black boy I want to rearrange star-crossed stories Of your existence To protect you You rather carry the burdens of the world in silence Having the Dead Sea grow While putting a smile That can make Aten jealous Dear black boy I love you Come, Let’s swine and dine Engulf in liberation Sit up front, Reading the book called ‘Rose and Parks’ While they stare and whisper.

Deserve to reap rewards from The Land of Milk and Honey Don’t allow altered history Have you forget your inheritance Of bathing in glory Dear black boy I need to see you win I need to see your smile.

See your growth You’re the foundation Of what makes Our people rejoice with pride.

Dear black boy Always remember that I love you...

We love you!

You are not alone...

You are surrounded With heroes, Who would pave the universe Because we will never forget about you To my dear Black Boy!!

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

You would never know by looking at this gorgeous woman, that she just had a baby.

Another surprise, especially after seeing her curvaceous body, and envied tiny waist is the fact that she is a foodie.

Since 2014, Abby Ayoola has been sharing her passion of food with the community. I had a chance to dialogue with this dining diva, and I learned more about her creative lifestyle as an: author, television host, reality TV star, and vegan food blogger extraordinaire. Come with me as I Dine with Abby.

What separates great cooking from mediocre is the attention to detail, and this is what makes Abby an expert, and distinguishes her from other popular food bloggers. Of course the lure of the free meals, the ability to check out Toronto’s best restaurants, and the chance to study various culinary cultures and trajectories of chefs has aided in her choice to critique restaurants, and share her thoughts with the community.

“It all started in 2014 when I watched an episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives (often nicknamed Triple D), which is an American food reality television series on the Food Network. It is hosted by Guy Fieri, and features a ‘road trip’ concept similar to Road Tasted, Giada’s Weekend Getaways, and $40 a Day. On these shows, they go to different restaurants to sample an array of foods. I love food, I love to travel, so I thought, why don’t I start my own.”

And just like that, Abby became part of the food blogging world. More then ever, people are eating out, and when you scroll through Instagram, you will find people sharing not only their lives, but their food consumption as well. This of course has turned everyone into a food critic, and has had a profound impact on how restaurants prepare, and present their meals.

Abby has become adroit at analysing dishes, and providing objective feedback to the food creators and the community.

There are a lot of things that Abby

takes into consideration. She scrutinizes if the chef has done something to change form and dazzle diners. This means taking in the underlying thought or narrative that comes through when eating a garnished meal. She is sensitive to taste, so she can tell if the best ingredients have been used to bring out the flavour of a dish. This means taking into account how the chef is sourcing their ingredients. She asks questions like, is there alternative grains used?

Are the sauces and seasoning made from scratch? Are there local and seasonal ingredients on the plate? This is to ensure that when she presents a dish to the community, they can be sure that they are in for a tasty treat.

A significant change occurred for Abby when she watched the popular Netflix Documentary “What the Health?” The documentary was produced and filmed by Kip Andersen and Keegan Kuhn who happen to be animal right activists. The documentary not only disgusted Abby, but also educated her on animal advocacy as well as:

calories you ingest on a daily basis.

•

Veganizing Comfort Food: Making Vegan Life Easy For You (2019) This book provides over 100 easy plantbased comfort food recipes for a stress-free vegan life. Being vegan and still trying to have your comfort food can be challenging at times. Whether you’re a beginner wishing for alternatives to your favourite comfort food dishes or a family member searching for recipes, this book is the perfect addition to your kitchen.

• •

Why a vegan diet is the answer to preventing and treating chronic disease How meat, dairy and eggs could possibly be a cause for most diseases How non-profit organizations don’t want you to know this because they are funded by big corporations

That was enough for Abby, and in 2017, she decided that she would start adapting a vegan lifestyle. This also meant that she would have to make some changes to Dine with Abby. “I made up my mind. No meat was going to enter my body. I saw what it could do to someone’s health and what it is doing to the environment. It became my mission to show people that eating healthy didn’t have to be bland. Not only was I going to feature vegan restaurants on Dine with Abby, I would also use the knowledge I have learned and share it with the community.”

Abby began her book series in 2017, and since then has written several books, all featuring vegan recipes, and self-care tips. Let’s take a look at the practical and helpful information that Abby has been sharing: Daily Food and Exercise Journal (2017) A Calorie Counting and Exercise Logbook that helps you take charge of your eating habits and stay mindful of the number of

How To Transform Your Waist in 30 Days (2017) It details step-by-step tips of what she used to get in the best shape of her life. It includes over 40 recipes; exercise plan and meal plan that you can follow to transform your waist in 30 days.

Beautifully Made: Let Nature Reveal Your Beauty (2018) This is the go to book for beauty tips. It has over 30 beauty recipes for glowing skin, strong nails, and hair and weight loss.

Africanizing Vegan Food- All your Favourite Nigerian Dishes Veganized (2018) This book has 59 recipes that give you a chance to enjoy authentic Nigerian dishes but with a vegan twist. The main reason more Nigerians are not vegan is because they don’t know how to incorporate the vegan lifestyle into their Nigerian cuisine.

This book will assist you in Veganizing Nigerian Cooking.

I was curious about how Abby finds these vegan restaurants around the city to highlight on her YouTube Channel Show Dine with Abby. “I contact the restaurant, or they contact me. We set a date and I will either go with my husband, or my entire family.

The restaurant usually offers three items, plus a drink. We taste it, review it on camera, and promote the restaurant on my channel. My favourites have been Doomie’s, where I tried their Seitan Burger, and Anijandro Kitchen. They have this falafel waffle cone, which was out of this world.”

Hmmmmm! The life of a food blogger, and the perks that come with it.

You can Dine with Abby by checking out her Facebook, Instagram and YouTube Channel.

“I want people to know that plant based food can be versatile and fun.”

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PAGE 22

FEATURE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 4, 2020

CONSTABLE NEIL McEACHRANE Consciously Connecting with his Community “Becoming a police officer is one of the best things I could have done for myself, my family and my community.”

There is an anxiety surrounding police that just won’t go away. It is possible that there is a severe disconnect that is partly due to the history of policing, and partly what the media shows us. Who knew that it could be as simple as going out into the community and talking to people? “People see things or hear things happen and paint us all with the same brush,” explains this edition’s Classic Man Constable Neil McEachrane. “It is important for me to talk to the community and let them know police are just like they are. I am doing what I need to do everyday to break down barriers and develop a level of trust, which will help the community see that we are human beings.”

It was only after sitting down with Constable Neil McEachrane did I see why he makes the perfect Diversity and Recruitment Officer for the Windsor Police Service.

He identifies with the needs of the community because he has maintained an active role within the community. Constable McEachrane is an outstanding example of what persistence, dedication, and a little support can do for a person. I would like to present to the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper readers, our esteemed Classic Man, Neil McEachrane.

Neil’s story does not start out as a happy one. His dad died when he was around eight or nine years old. His uncle who lived in Windsor, Ontario at the time urged his mother to send Neil and his brother to stay with him. Naturally, mom was reluctant to let her sons go, but eventually she gave in. He moved to Canada from the sunny islands of Trinidad & Tobago at the age of fourteen years old.

It was really tough for Neil. He had left his home and there was no connection to his West Indian roots. He was total-

ly cut off. He wrote letters back and forth to his mom, but he was not able to go home or see her for seven years. It was a hard adjustment for Neil.

The Canadian culture was unfamiliar to him, plus it was really cold. Nothing like the sandy beaches, bright, glaring tropical sun, and overall freedom that he was used to.

His saving grace came about a year into him moving to Canada. Someone brought him a Bob Marley’s greatest hits album, and he played this album over and over again. In that moment, it was his only connection to what he grew up used to. It was the sound of the West Indies, which for Neil at the time, was better then nothing.

The transition to high school is difficult for students who live in Canada; as you can imagine, the transition from another country and heading straight into high school was a challenge.

“I hated high school,” Constable McEachrane tells me, “I was such an introvert. When other students were out at lunch hanging with friends, and eating lunch, I was in the library, looking up whatever I could find about the Caribbean.”

His library visits were helpful, but also sad at times too. It was here that he found out that one of Trinidad’s public figures, The Honourable Dr. Eric Eustace Williams, died on March 29th, 1981. Dr. Williams served as the first Prime Minister’s of Trinidad & Tobago, form 1962 until his death in 1981. He was a noted historian and is identified as the father of organized party politics in Trinidad & Tobago. As you can imagine, it was difficult to be so disconnected from his culture. It was only after exiting high school Neil started to open himself up to a better life away from Trinidad.

College. Now college was a different story. It was here that Neil found himself. Of course, he fell into the trap that most college students fall into; partying, hanging out and not going to classes. “At one point, I think that my average was 0.92 out of 4.0.” In his defence, most students go through this. He was having fun for the first time in a long time. That type of lifestyle is easy to get caught up in.

Then came the day that he returned to Trinidad. “It was unreal. When I returned home, it was like I never left. Yes, things had changed,

but my love for the country had not changed.

For a while, I had to really take in the fact that I was home. It was amazing to see the family and friends I had left behind. Of course, the source of my joy was my mother. I was happiest to see her. “

Neil took the time to enjoy Trinidad, and when he got back to Canada, he decided to take a different approach when it came to school.

Neil enrolled at the University of Windsor, and this is when he met the woman who would change his life forever. “I have been married for 30 years. I have to say at this point that if it wasn’t for my wife, things may have turned out differently for me. She taught me how to study. She taught me how to balance my time. It is because of her that my entire educational career did a 360. I will always be thankful to her for taking the time to help me develop as a person.”

His decision to become a police officer came after meeting a black East Coast police officer. Neil recognized instantly the difference in the way this officer did policing. His experiences with this officer completely changed his thought process. He knew that this was the role that he wanted to play in the community. He would be that police officer that helped people and connect with them at their individual levels.

If you want to find Constable McEachrane, looking for him at the station will be difficult. You are more likely to find him out in the community visiting schools, and working with you. For him, working with Windsor’s multicultural community and new Canadians has allowed him to relate with their struggles and have a better understanding of Windsor’s diverse community.

Written by Simone J. Smith Toronto Caribbean News

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A short walk to lake shore. This home is in a neighbourhood with million-dollar homes. Ideal for someone with the vision to build a dream home or an investor to profit. This bungalow features a spacious living and dining room, eat in kitchen and an oversized bedroom. The basement is finished with separate entrance. Grow your money.

Impressive home with 9 feet ceiling, Led lights, open concept with gas fireplace, eat in kitchen, master bedroom with full ensuite, side entrance to the basement and 3 bedrooms. Freshly painted in modern tones. A true pleasure.

$729,900

$519,000 Affordable solution

Rexdale Court Location

Will get out of his corner to see this home with 3 bedrooms, 3 washrooms, living and dining room, modern kitchen, finish basement, garage, fenced yard and private driveway. Upgrades include ceramic, hardwood floors and LED lights.

Features a double door entry, modern kitchen with granite counter, LED lights, 3 bedrooms and a basement apartment with 2 bedrooms, open concept living and dining room and separate entrance. The basement is rented for $1600 monthly. It’s an income booster.

3500+ HOMES

TheBrij.com

* Sales mean both buyer and seller transactions from 1990 to 2016, Team Sales combined.

Anjie Brijpaul,

Direct: 416.988.5369 Office: 416-745-2300

MA Sales Representative

Jay Brijpaul, Broker, FRI

Direct: 416.418.2745 (BRIJ) Office: 416-745-2300

96 Rexdale Blvd.

Toronto ON M9W 1N7

*

www.danforthfoodmarket.com We’re simply the best West Indian store in town.

3

Grace Ackees

5

Big Bamboo Irish Moss

Grace Dry Lima Beans

2/$

Realemon Lemon Juice

$ 2/

Dunn’s River Coconut Oil

2

Grace Corned Beef

2

Vaseline Body Lotion

2

540 ml

945 ml

500 ml

Assorted 340 g

Assorted 400 ml

each

99 each

99 each

99 each Each

540 ml

Assorted 284 ml

Capri Canola or Vegetable Oil 3 L

Pearl Mackerels in Tomato Sauce or in Water 425 g

Strongmor

By Slide Garbage Bags 40’s

6

99 each

3

$ 2/

4

99 each

3

$ 2/

2

99 each

4

99 $ 2/

Marshall’s Salted Pollock Fillet 300 g

10

99

Ovaltine Malted Chocolate Drink Mix 1200 g

3

3 lbs

each each

99

Windsor Safe-T-Salt Ice Melt 10 kg

each

99

Demerara Gold Cane Sugar

Del Monte Pineapple Chunks or Slices 398 ml

each

¢

each

3

99 each

1

Phoenicia Chick Peas

$ 2/

Apisun Cuban Honey

2

Dunn’s River Coconut Milk

79

Island Tingle Callaloo

1

Ekono Windshield Washer

$ 2/

540 ml

99

500 g

400 ml

540 ml

4L

each

¢

each

69 each

5

Chicken Leg Quarters

The New Way of Shopping Experience To Service You Better at 144 Kennedy Road South Look For The Grand Opening Soon!!!

Oxtail

42

case of 18 kg

79

5

17.50/10 kg case

Jamaican Manish Water

Fresh Pork Feet

Salted Beef Short Ribs

4

2

Young Whole Chicken 4-5lbs

¢ $ 99 lb ea

Frozen Mutton Shoulder

Shank Steak

5

Frozen Chicken Drumsticks Equal To

00

$

Jamaican Stew Frozen Beef Frozen Easy Cook

1

4

29 49 99 49 $ $ $ $ 99 $ lb lb lb lb lb

Fresh Seafood Catches Fresh Lane Snapper 1/2 - 1 Size

Fresh Whole Salmon

3

4

Fresh Jack Fish

Fresh Whole King Fish

5

3

Fresh Grunt Fish

3

$ 99 $ 99 $ 49 $ 99 $ 49 lb as is

Fresh Jamaican Sweet Potatoes

lb as is

Fresh Jamaican Sweet Yams

lb as is

lb as is

2 3 3 Six Locations To Serve You Better

1

$

49

lb

lb as is

Fresh & Juicy Limes

Fresh Jamaican Yellow Yams

49

49 lb

5/

lb

Specials in Effect Thu. March 5th until Wed. March 11th, 2020.

Store Hours

Monday-Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 8 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 7 pm

Store Hours

Monday-Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 9 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 8 pm

Lawrence Ave. E .

Store Hours

Monday-Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 9 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 7 pm

Finch Ave. E.

Store Hours

Mond-Thurs 8:30 am to 8 pm Fri.-Sat. 8:30 am to 8:30 pm Sunday 9 am to 6 pm

Dundas St. E.

Store Hours

Mond-Thurs 9:30 am to 9 pm Fri.-Sat. 9 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 6 pm

Stafford Dr.

Rutherford Rd. South .

Finch Ave. W .

Dixie Rd.

d

Danforth Food Market 3051 Pharmacy Ave North Finch 416-490-9219

Bloor St. E.

Danforth Food Market 1225 Dundas St. Dixie & Dundas Missisauga 905-949-9990

Cawtra Rd.

Roa

Steeles Ave. E .

Pharmacy Rd.

ion

Danforth Food Market 651 Markam Rd. 416-439-6397

Markam Rd.

Danforth Food Market 301 Silverstone Dr. A l b 416-740-9870

Martin Grove Rd.

Sheppard Ave. W .

Sheppard Ave. E .

Steeles Ave. W.

D r.

Finch Ave. W.

Danforth Food Market 3701 Keele St. 416-398-8123

Kennedy Rd. Soith

Although we strive for accuracy in both copy & illustration, unintentional error may occur, we reserve the right to correct any error. Specials Available While Quantities Last. We reserve the right to limit quantities.

Si lv er st on e

5

Frozen Back Attached

Soft Opening Continues This Week

Keele St.

1

N e w Brampton Location

Danforth Food Market 144 Kennedy Road South 289-298-0399

Glidden Rd.

Store Hours

Monday-Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 8 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 7 pm

FOOD

PAGE 26

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 4, 2020

sic s a l C y m a e r COCONUT & GINGER A Rich C ist w T l a c i p o r T CREME BRULEE With A NOEL CUNNINGHAM noel@carib101.com

CULINARY EXPERT

One of my favorite desserts to make is crème brûlée. Not because it takes only a few ingredients but it’s fun and easy to make. The best part of the crème brûlée process for me is actually making the brûlée on top. The brûlée process is adding granulated sugar to the cold dessert then using a blowtorch to crystallize the sugar which will create a hard crust.

When the idea first came to mind to make a crème brûlée I was thinking what two Caribbean flavours could I combine to wow my guests? And Bam! Coconut and ginger came to mind.

Everyone was blown away when they tried it, and they all wanted to know what was in it. Can you imagine that hard crystal topping with a smooth and creamy crème brûlée with a burst of tropical flavours? Sounds delicious right?

This recipe will be a regular in your home. Coconut crème brûlée is so easy to make and tastes like paradise! Here is your chance to give yourself a taste of paradise just in case you are missing the tropics.

2.

3.

4.

Ingredients - Serves 4 • 1 cup coconut milk • 2-3 large slices of fresh ginger root skin on is fine • 1 tbsp.softened butter • 3 large egg yolks • 2 large eggs • 1/2 cup white sugar + 4 Tbsp. for the top • Special equipment • Rimmed sheet tray • 4 x 4 oz. ramekins • Kitchen torch

EMPOWERING THROUGH EDUCATION

WATCH LIVE ON

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SIMONE SMITH & DAVE RANKIN

5.

6.

Preparation 1.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. In a medium saucepan add coconut milk and fresh ginger slices; warm gently over medium heat just until milk comes to a simmer. Do not let it boil. Let stand 10 minutes.

Place ramekins on a rimmed sheet tray and use the softened butter to coat the inside of each.

Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl add egg yolks, eggs and sugar. Whisk until light and foamy. Remove the ginger slices from the coconut milk and add to the egg mixture. Gently whisk until custard is light and frothy. Pour mixture into a 2-cup, glass measuring cup (this makes it easier to fill) and gently pour custard into ramekins.

Place sheet tray in oven, then carefully pour hot water onto the bottom of the tray, until it reaches a quarter of the way up the sides of the ramekins.

The water will help create steam during baking and aid in setting the custard.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Custard will have a slight jiggle when it’s finished, but a cake tester should come out clean. Chill covered for 3-6 hours.

When you’re ready to serve, remove chilled ramekins from the refrigerator. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar evenly across the top of one ramekin. Using a kitchen torch, heat sugar until light golden brown and a hard shell forms on the surface. Enjoy!

HIGH SPEED UNLIMITED INTERNET

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Yes, keep the same number. Watch your favourites television channels.

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Do you have have blind WiFi spots in your home or apartment? Please call me for advice.

Please call Carlos for advice anytime

*Some conditions may apply

416 835 4524 | 514 548 2277

FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS • We can assist with getting the 10% deposit.

• We will help with financing.

• We will show you how to get an income property to offset some of the expenses.

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INVESTORS

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SELLERS

We will lend you money for pre-sale renovations Contact us regarding our fantastic referral program!

Bain F. Thompson Tel: 416-898-5192 Real Estate Professional

Doing It Together!

HUGE MATRESS SALE! SINGLE MATTRESS

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85

$

WAS $199

PILLOW COMFORT QUEEN SET

449

$

WAS $899

ORTHOPEDIC BACK SUPPORTERS STARTING AT

799

20 YEAR WARRANTY SINGLE SET

200

WAS $300

ORTHOPEDIC SET 20 YEAR WARRANTY DOUBLE SET

250

$

499

Mattress & Furniture E M P O R I U M

255 Queen St. E, Unit 4 Brampton

250

WAS $899

WAS $390

$

ORTHOPEDIC SET 30 YEAR WARRANTY SINGLE SET

250

$

WAS $399

MEMORY FOAM QUEEN SET

PERFECTION PILLOW TOP QUEEN SET

999

$

HIGH DENSITY FOAM FIRM QUEEN SET

$

QUEEN SET

$

ORTHOPEDIC SET

$

ORTHOPEDIC 20 YEARS

$

WAS $1499

699

WAS $1199

STARTING AT

ORTHOPEDIC SET 30 YEAR WARRANTY DOUBLE SET

299

$

WAS $540

ULTRA COMFORT 16” THICK PILLOW TOP QUEEN SET

999

$

WAS $1799

MONDAY-FRIDAY: 10:00am to 8:30pm SATURDAY: 10:00am to 5:30pm SUNDAY: 11:00am to 5:00pm

Tel: 905.874.7120

Mr.B’s

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CLOSED MONDAYS TUES & WED: 11-6 THURS & FRI: 11-8 SAT & SUN: 10-4 1590 MATHESON BLVD., UNIT 16 905-629-1500

March 10 -22

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HEALTH

Wednesday, March 4, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 29

Chiropractic can slow or halt the progression of arthritis DR. VIKAS PURI drpuri@carib101.com

HEALTH SPECIALIST

Here are some early signs to take note of: Joint stiffness: Aching, pain and/or stiffness usually occur in the morning or after a period of inactivity and once movement resumes, typically, stiffness may decrease after about 30 minutes.

Mobility: Gentle stretching may help improve flexibility and mobility, while decreasing stiffness and pain. Exercises like yoga and tai chi can help manage stiffness.

Heat and cold: Applying heat and cold can help relieve pain when aggravated. Heat can relieve stiffness, while ice may help with pain.

Joint swelling: A person may notice some swelling in the joints and a reduction in range of motion.

Chiropractic therapy: Chiropractors help provide treatment not only for pain management but help improve function and prevent progression. Addressing biomechanical dysfunctions can help relieve pressure on joints.

Joint crepitus: The joint may grind, grate or experience a crackling sensation, commonly accompanied by a cracking sound.

Positive attitude: Studies have demonstrated that a positive attitude can help increase a person’s ability to manage pain.

Pain: Pain is usually worse after activity and improves with rest. Early on, the pain may only be triggered by high-impact activities but as it progresses, there may be more frequent episodes of pain. The joint pain or discomfort may affect the person throughout day.

Chiropractic care provides a natural, gentle, and effective therapeutic approach to slowing or even halting the progression of this disease. Degenerative changes are irreversible and cannot be cured once established, but chiropractic can prevent the condition from becoming worse. Chiropractic adjustments help restore and maintain joint motion, nerve function, and blood circulation.

This combats cartilage decay, stiffness and the resulting arthritis from developing or progressing. Chiropractors also prescribe glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate supplements, the only natural nutritional formula that is known to help regenerate cartilage.

In a 2015 Gallup poll of more than 5,400 Americans, 60% believed chiropractic care is an effective treatment for neck

Here are some tips to help manage the condition and prevent progression.

Exercise: Exercise can help manage symptoms while increasing your endurance and strengthening the muscles that help support the joints. Good options for activity include walking, biking and swimming.

Weight management: Excess weight can be

$

MISSISSAUGA

Charlie’s West Indian Food Mart 3057 Hurontario St. Tel: 905-896-3663

MISSISSAUGA

Indian Town Supermarket

(Dundas & Hurontario) 905-273-4600

NORTH YORK

an important risk factor due to the additional stress put on your weight-bearing joints.

Even a small amount of weight-loss can help reduce pain and limit further joint damage.

Uthayas Supermarket (Kipling & Steeles) Tel: 416-740-7971

and back pain. A 2010 report issued by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality found spinal manipulation is as effective as medication for low back pain. The same year, a British analysis of nearly 100 high-quality systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials found that chiropractic spinal adjustments were beneficial for acute and chronic low back pain, neck pain and knee osteoarthritis. And a 2013 study published in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage found that patient education combined with 12 chiropractic treatments (twice a week for six weeks) were more effective for hip osteoarthritis than a daily stretching program or patient education alone. Reports from the chiropractor-led spine program at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Plymouth, Mass. are also positive: Most patients with bad backs experience significant pain relief in about five visits.

Other than osteoarthritis (“Old-age or degenerative arthritis”), other forms of arthritis can be inflammatory in nature such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and ankylosing spondylitis. For these patients’ chiropractic care combined with exercise and an antiinflammatory diet helps reduce pain and inflammation while improving mobility.

A recent study [in Clinical Therapeutics] found that half of patients with low back pain take prescription narcotics [opioids], which is alarming. But the study also showed that those who have chiropractic care are far less likely to use these drugs.

It is important to receive regular chiropractic adjustments as preventative care. Just like going to visit the dentist every six months prevents tooth decay, going to the chiropractor every month prevents spinal decay. Before arthritis gets a hold of you, get a hold of chiropractic!

5.

EAST YORK

99

SCARBOROUGH

Trupti Enterprises 2 Thorncliff 416-421-0191

India Town Supermarket (Markham & Lawrence) Tel: 416-438-1013

SARBOROUGH

SCARBOROUGH

Charley's West Indian Food Ltd 1154 Morntingside Ave. Tel: 416-283-1441

SCARBOROUGH

Charloo's West Indian Food Inc. Victorio park & Eglinton Tel: 416-759-7680

MARKHAM

New Spicyland (Markham & Steeles) Tel: 416-335-3030

PICKERING

Eraa Supermarket (Neilson & Finch) Tel: 416-292-2622

New Spicyland Supermarket Harwood / Taunton Tel: 905-426-1114

SCARBOROUGH

MONTREAL

New Spicyland Supermarket (Sheppard/ Markham) Tel: 416-292-9769

Marche Tharsini Tel: 514-737-1261

For Free Consultation: Nagil NS Herbal Health Care Centre, 2387 Eglinton Ave. East, Unit 1, Scarborough, ON M1G 2M5 Tel: 416-751-1428 Toll Free: 1-866-909-0095 Email: greenishcanada@gmail.com

OIL REMEDY FOR ALL KINDS OF JOINT PAIN

OIL REMEDY FOR ALL KINDS OF JOINT PAIN

Degenerative joint disease, also known as osteoarthritis, can affect all of us. It is a natural process of aging resulting from wear and tear on our bodies. The degree of degeneration is correlated with various factors including age, heredity, nutrition, physical activity, posture, stress, etc. Literally translated, arthritis means “inflammation of joints”.

Arthritis develops when the cartilage between joints or the cartilaginous discs between our spinal vertebrae thin out. The result is less support and cushioning between the two bones that connect to make the joint. This creates an irritating environment where the bones begin rubbing against each other creating an inflammatory response. Abnormal bone growth then begins, followed by possible fusion of the two bones. Symptoms of osteoarthritis include stiffness, dull aches and pains, worse in the morning and better with activity. As the condition worsens and the bones begin fusing, severe debilitation, sharp pain, and fractures can result.

What we know is that osteoarthritis affects one in ten Canadians. By 2040, it is estimated that approximately 470,000 Canadians will suffer from osteoarthritis. Unfortunately, for many, osteoarthritis is a painful condition that can make daily activities very difficult.

To best manage the symptoms and prevent the progression of the condition, it is important to pay attention to early signs.

Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are options that can reduce the risk and relieve pain, stiffness and improve function.

?

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VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3 2019

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PAGE 31

When should wisdom teeth be removed?

What to do in a dental emergency Your dentist should be the first person you call in a dental emergency, but it may take some time before you can see them. Here are some of the most common dental emergencies and what to do while you wait for your dentist to see you.

Wisdom tooth extractions are common in most dental offices. While not everyone needs to have these molars removed, there are cases in which your dentist may suggest you do.

Sometimes, wisdom teeth do come in despite the lack of space. When this happens, they can cause crowding and problems with the surrounding teeth.

THERE’S NOT ENOUGH ROOM Some people don’t have enough space in their mouth for their wisdom teeth. When this occurs, the teeth may not be able to break through the gums, or they could grow in the wrong direction.

THERE’S DECAY Because wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, it can be hard to properly brush and floss them. This makes them more prone to decay.

KNOCKED OUT TOOTH If possible, place the tooth back in its socket. If you can’t, hold the tooth in your cheek or place it in a cup of milk or a bit of your own saliva. If you can see a dentist within the hour, they should be able to save the tooth.

In a situation where these teeth have cavities, many dentists suggest removing instead of repairing them. This is because the tooth is likely to become decayed again in the future.

CHIPPED, CRACKED OR BROKEN TOOTH If you’re in pain, take acetaminophen and apply a cold compress.

Don’t use a topical numbing cream or other product as you may end up injuring your gums. Bring any broken pieces of tooth to the dentist in the same manner described above.

If your wisdom teeth have become a problem, see your dentist. They’ll help you decide whether or not an extraction would be beneficial.

SEVERE TOOTHACHE Tooth pain can be caused by infection, tooth decay and many other things. If the pain is stopping you from eating or sleeping, take an over-the-counter pain medication and apply a cold compress to your cheek. Rinse your mouth with saltwater to keep the area clean, but don’t use topical oral creams to numb the pain.

LOST FILLING OR CROWN Protect the remaining tooth by putting dental cement or a piece of sugarless gum in the space where the filling or crown has fallen off.

Dental emergencies are best avoided. To protect yourself, always wear a mouth guard when playing sports and never chew ice or hard candy.

How to take care of your dental implants Dental implants are commonly used to replace missing teeth in adults. However, these prostheses require sufficient care in order to remain in good shape. Here’s how to properly maintain your dental implants.

BRUSH Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. Be sure to use a toothpaste that isn’t too abrasive as it can scratch and damage the surfaces of prosthetic teeth.

FLOSS Once a day, floss your implants the same way you do your natural teeth. You may also need to use an interdental brush to clean underneath and around them.

VISIT YOUR DENTIST At least twice a year, visit your dentist’s office for a thorough cleaning and checkup.

If you have dental implants, it’s important to avoid chewing on hard candies, ice or anything else that might damage the prosthetic tooth.

This is especially true if the implant is made of ceramic or porcelain since these materials are much more brittle than natural teeth and therefore more susceptible to damage.

PAGE 32

COMMUNITY

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Black History Month (BHM) 2020 15 suggestions for sustainable black empowerment - Part 1 ERROL A. GIBBS errol@carib101.com

PHILOSOPHER

In December 1995, the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month (BHM) in Canada following a motion introduced by the first black Canadian woman elected to Parliament, the Honorable Jean Augustine. This year Black History Month (BHM) February 2020 marks the 25th year of celebration of achievements of the past and present - in education, politics, business, science and technology, engineering, sports, arts, and entertainment.

Nevertheless, some of the challenges that face blacks in the Canadian Diaspora are the lack of "collective progress" that underpins corporate real estate holdings, aggregate financial wealth, philanthropy, crowdfunding, and community Co-Ops. Furthermore, blacks strive to break through the glass ceiling of corporate directorships and the Federal and Provincial elite political structure. These are the levels where critical decision-making determines the growth and empowerment of the citizenry.

Blacks are mindful that some unresolved issues of the past are resurfacing in the postmodern era, such as racism, colourism, and inequality. Other challenges include rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and "global warming" ("cli-

mate change"). Scientists sound an early warning of the adverse impacts that these issues will have on the economies of minority and indigenous communities.

This article is a brief exploration of 15 indispensable suggestions to begin a new explorative phase in our journey over the next 30 years (2020 - 2050), starting this BHM February 2020. Except for Suggestion Number 1 (Priority 1.), the other 14 Suggestions are parallel initiatives).

Suggestion Number 1: Universal Mellinnium Goals Project Academics, scientists, engineers, educators, intellectuals, entrepreneurs, and ministers could come together, and if necessary, crowdfund the cost to create a 2050 Universal Millennium Goals Project (UMGP).

To develop the outline for 14 BHM Score Cards that underpin the UMGP. Likewise, to provide strategic, tactical, and operational leadership to accomplish the vision, mission, and objectives.

Existing community organizations could assume the leadership for developing the 15 faculties consistent with their capacity and administrative framework. This integrated approach will help to underpin "community organizations' cohesiveness."

Likewise, to consolidate the voice of the community, during high-level corporate negotiations. These 15 Community Organization Faculties (COF) could fully develop the scope of the BHM Score Cards to establish interim targets and measurable outcomes for reporting on during each succeeding BHM (2020 through 2050).

Suggestion Number 2: Critical Community Economic Empowerment Initiative (CCEEI)

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Knowledge of Corporate and Government Procurement Rules and Processes is central to community empowerment and wealth accumulation. Develop a Project Management Faculty with the knowledge of Cost Estimating, Cost Management, Civil and Architectural Engineering, and Procurement Management Specialists. This faculty will enable the black community to advance the discussion to gain access to a representative portion of the billions of dollars in procurement budgets at all levels of government and within private corporations.

Community organization funding is essential - from moral, social, political, and economic perspectives. Nevertheless, it limits and suffocates innovation, selfgovernance, and sustainability. It fosters long-term dependence, with some inherent risks. Leaders in the public and private sphere should heighten their collaboration to build the capacity to gain wealth for the community, which is a central weakness in addressing some of the challenges facing the black community.

Suggestion Number 3: Community Wealth Creation Imperatives Revaluate community funding is essential, but also as a means to foster the higher goals of autonomous Research and Development (R&D) funding. This class of funding facilitates the expansion of the range of ownership to include significant Patents®, Trademarks(TM), Copyrights (©), Industrial Circuit Designs, Computer Programs, and Architectural Designs. R&D fuels creativity, new product development, and Initial Product Offering (IPOs) - the gateway to confident capital infusing.

Mobilize the black community to understand better the inherent value of

crowdfunding as a persuader for "collective resolve" and a crucial source of capital funding. Create a permanent "think tank" to conduct studies and research about five significant pillars for economic empowerment, such as Generational Wealth, Stock Market Investments, Real Estate Holdings, Insurance (Inheritances), and Scientific Education. Utilize the expertise of reputable professionals and those who have built successful practices - nationally and internationally.

Suggestion Number 4: The Family Foundation The home is the first society of "altruistic love" —the bastion of black empowerment, especially for children. The family is the primary agency to address all forms of disfranchisement, and especially, the self-image, self-worth, and self-esteem of children. The family foundation is shaking at the epicenter. Distortion is occurring on every front as families struggle to understand family fragmentation.

A faculty of social scientists working with governments, community organizations, and the families could commission a study of the state of the black family. The phenomenon of the diminishing of parental influence on children is a critical endeavor to pursue. Moreover, there is a definite need to understand better how the broader human ecosystem might be inadvertently unraveling the family foundation.

Children are the casualties of an aberration of the human ecosystem.

Presented herein Parts 1 of 3: These are the first four of the fifteen suggestions that should begin a new BHM journey of thirty years from February 2020 through February 2050.

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PAGE 34

LIFE

Greek Gods, Mayan Gods, Norse Gods…

What about Egyptian Gods? Part III

BY MAKAYLA B. 11 YEARS OLD TC JUNIOR CONTRIBUTOR In the last article I wrote about the Egyptian Goddess Bast or also known as Bastet the Goddess of cats, but this time I’m going to be writing about an Egyptian God. A God known for embalming the dead and preparing them for the afterlife. The God’s name is Anubis.

Anubis is also known as Anpu, Inpu, Lenpu, Imeut, and Yinpu. Anubis is the son of the Egyptian Goddess Nephthys, and the God who brings hell to the other God, Seth. Seth is the God of red desert sand, which meant the Egyptians could not plant crops there.

He is also the God of: storms, darkness, chaos, disorder, destruction and you guessed it EVIL. Anubis despised his father, because who wouldn’t? Seth had buddies throughout the different cultures in the world: Sekhmet an Egyptian Goddess, Hel, a Goddess from the Vikings, and Coatlicue from the Aztecs.

Now, what about his mother? She was different. After her husband Seth put her brother in law in a coffin and scattered the cut pieces of the body, Nephthys helped her sister Isis collect the pieces. She helped her put him back together. So she turned her back on her husband and helped her sister. Nephthys is one of those powerful Goddesses that are kind and gentle.

After hearing about Anubis’s devastatingly, gorgeous mom and his mind-blowingly, horrid father: • What do you think of him?

• How do you think he acts?

• Do you think he’s evil like his father or kind like his mom?

I will be sharing more about Anubis in the next edition.

EMPOWERING OUR YOUNG MINDS OF TOMORROW TORONTO CARIBBEAN NEWS INC.

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 4, 2020

A better decade for Simone Jennifer Smith: reliving my past traumas, Part II SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

HUMAN SPECIALIST

This was the beginning of the end of the life I knew. I’m not perfect, I make mistakes, I hurt people. But when I say I am sorry, I really mean it.

As I share bits of my story, I have noticed that more people want to learn what had happened to me. What happened in Panama Simone? I have been reluctant to tell my story because of two people. My parents.

When the edition went out mentioning that I would be talking about this, the first person to call me was my mother.

“Simone,” she began the conversation, “Do you think that it is wise to be telling your business like this. You know how people are, and you have come so far. We don’t want people to start judging you on your past.”

“Unfortunately mom,” I responded.

“People are going to judge me regardless of what I have done in my past, or what I am going to do in the future. This story is no lon-

ger mine. This story is for a young lady out there who finds herself in the wrong company. If I can help one young lady advert from making the mistakes I did by telling my story, then I have done my job.”

I don’t think that my mom was satisfied with that answer. I decided to check in with my dad to see what he had to say about it. My dad and I are similar in many ways. His thoughts were a little different, “You are going to have to share your story.

It is important to you, and some young person will hear your story and learn from it. You can’t worry about people. Everyone has their faults, yet they will still cast judgment.”

In November, I finished my first novel. It is a psychological thriller that is loosely based off my life. I have not figured out how I am going to publish it, but the story touches on another aspect of my life, my sexuality. I truly believe that promiscuity is misunderstood. The uneducated mind see’s promiscuity as a person who just enjoys having sex. Unbeknown to them, there is usually some unknown sexual experience that has triggered promiscuity. I happen to fall in that category.

I mention that here because to truly understand my thoughts, the way I act, and how I have come to be the force that I am, you have to understand my past. My sexual trauma, my need to be accepted, my distorted view of male and female relation-

ships, all of this has to do with how I ended up in prison.

I truly believe that the only thing that has saved me from a completely disastrous life is the fact that I had two supportive parents who have always been there for me.

They have accepted me for all that makes me a great individual, and the parts of me that make me less socially acceptable. My father has given me the strength to walk away from relationships that did not serve me. He always reminds me that I don’t have to settle for less. I can always come home. This can be looked at as a bad thing or a good thing. My knowledge of being able to always go home has allowed me to escape messy relationship situations instead of taking the time to see my role in them.

My mother’s love has been my bedrock. She has cried with me, scolded me, loved me, and let me know firmly when she does not agree with my actions. At the end of the day, I know for sure that I can turn to her for guidance. She is biased because she is my mother, but she remains honest, and if she thinks I am wrong, she will tell me with no discretion.

This article is an introduction to what I believe will bring a clearer perspective on what makes me who I am. I hope you are ready for the ride. It is going to be an entertaining one.

Dear Retrograde! Please rock the boat GARCIA AKUA

garcia@carib101.com

COSMIC CORNER

Happy Mercury Retrograde family! We are more than half way through our first retrograde of the year. Many have been feeling the intensity of it’s energies already. For those of you who have heard of retrogrades must be wondering why I am so happy about it. For those of you who have not heard or don’t know much, we’re going to spend some time discussing it today.

So, what exactly is Mercury Retrograde? This cosmic transit occurs about 3-4 times per year. Mercury orbits the sun every 88 days compared to Earth with an orbit of 365 days. Mercury travels much faster than earth does. When it laps us it appears retrograde or moving backward. It is believed that when this occurs, areas in which Mercury influences need to be approached with extra caution. Mercury governs communication, transportation, and technology.

Common suggestions for dealing with Mercury Retrograde are being mindful of miscommunication, tune-up your cars,

back your computers/data, double-check travel arrangements and use more caution when signing contracts. REtrograde time is also a good time to do RE things: RElax, REflect, and REassess. The universe provides us with this time to slow down. Retrogrades are truly nothing to fear.

Whatever sign Mercury goes retrograde in gives us an indication of what time of issue and energy is going to surface. Our first retrograde of the decade is in the sign of Pisces. Pisces is the last water sign of the zodiac. It speaks to our spiritual and emotional intelligence. Pisces represents the deep waters of our emotions. It can help us unravel hidden gifts by way of healing our deepest wounds and hurts.

With Mercury Retrograde or traveling backwards through Pisces, we can expect to be traveling through past issues of relationships, inner child trauma, money/ financial matters as well as issues around your personal gifts and worth. Pisces are big dreamers. This is an awesome trait for imagining the best life for yourself and your family. However, the shadow side is you can be dreaming and not facing your current reality. This causes illusions, disappointments and ultimately insanity. During retrograde, these illusions come to surface.

• •

Where are you not facing reality right now?

Is it your job that you have outgrown? Is it your current relationship which is not

• •

in alignment with who you truly are?

Is it the way you are spending time and money?

Are you living above you means? How about the pain you have been carrying around, while telling yourself all is well?

Pisces is the last sign of the zodiac. It carries a bit of wisdom from each of the signs before. This is beneficial to help us view our current situations with new perspectives.

This is our opportunity to tie up loose ends by way of healing to close out our cosmic year. Next month we celebrate our cosmic new year with the first day of Spring and Aries season. Once Spring begins, we want to be ready to plant our seeds/goals. Let’s put this retrograde season to good use to reflect and redefine how we are going to show up this year. It is easy to get distracted with all that is happening around us, from the disputes on Indigenous lands, school board strikes, Coronavirus. Nonetheless we owe it to ourselves and our loved ones to focus on our healing, goals and intentions.

This retrograde is a reality check!

Pay your dues to yourself. Use this retrograde time to REevalute your REality. Use the Pisces energy to dream of your highest Self, living in your highest potential. Retrograde is going to rock the boat to bring you to smooth sailings. Trust the process, surrender to your fears and find your treasure. It is buried deep in the waters of your soul. Dear Retrograde, please rock my boat!

LIFE

Wednesday, March 4, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 35

Amenhotep 1st and his new kingdom DAVE RANKIN dave@carib101.com

AFRICAN HISTORY

The impact of the life of Kemet’s Liberator, Ahmose 1st had been cemented into the echoes of history by the time his son and successor, Amenhotep 1st had taken the throne. The tall tales of his father’s victorious battles were told to assist with not just the rearing of this young man. It was for the preparation of what was at stake; the legacy of his lineage and the advanced glory of the nation.

Amenhotep 1st heard of the brutal deaths of his uncle and grandfather on

the battlefield at the hands of Kemet’s most recent antagonists, the Hyksos. He became aware of his beloved grandmother, Ahhotep. Her work was gravely instrumental in keeping the nation together by thwarting those same adversaries and in schooling his young father in the ways of ruler ship.

Amenhotep 1st was well educated in the family’s history. The untimely passing of his older brother, Ahmose-ankh, flung him into duty before his time.

His mother, Queen Ahmose Nefretiri carried on the royal tradition of playing an integral role during his reign. This is where the influence of his father came into play. Having witnessed the deeds of her husband, Ahmose Nefretiri gave an account what it took to keep the nation flourishing and hold enemies at bay.

Amenhotep’s parents must have had some foresight when he was born, for his birth name meant, “Amun is pleased.” I say this because Amun and the nation of

Kemet were very pleased as Amenhotep 1st was surely tested by the Libyans early in his reign. His successful campaign against the Libyans garnered further belief that he was truly the “Bull who conquered the Land,” a name given to him when he ascended the throne. Later during his reign he led a successful campaign into Nubia. However, the battlefield was not where Amenhotep 1st left his mark on the world’s stage.

Amenhotep 1st furthered his family’s legacy by erecting and reconstructing many structures along the Nile. Nearby cities such as Elephantine, Kom Ombo, and Abydos were recipients of his architectural attention. However it was his hometown and current capital of Kemet, Thebes (or its ancient name Waset) where Amenhotep’s most famous building project came to light.

The Temple of Karnak or Ipetisut was given some serious attention by Amenhotep 1st as he commissioned his ar-

chitect Ineni to expand the complex. I read somewhere that he used different types of stone such as alabaster and sandstone to complete the construction. A limestone gateway and a dedicated shrine to the God Amun was also built. Although it may not sound like much, it was hailed, as one of the largest man made religious complexes built. I also read that he commissioned some restoration performed on the Temple of Hathor as well.

Aside from a few military excursions, Amenhotep’s reign was a peaceful one. His political acumen allowed for a developed administrative organization with assistance from powerful families that helped solidify his vision. At the end of his reign of a little more than 21 years, Amenhotep 1st was buried somewhere close to the Valley of Kings. The pharaoh was deified as a ceremonial god in title alone, and later a small cult was established in his name.

Unprecedented and historic show of solidarity by teachers unions highlight unity PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

EDUCATION

It was truly a sight to bestow as over 35,000 teachers, school staff, students and education workers descend upon Queen’s Park on Friday, February 21st 2020 in a province wide strike.

This singular event was the first mass strike ever in the history of Ontario as approximately 200,000 education workers from across Ontario showed an ‘historic show of unity’ according to an article published on Saturday, December 22nd in the Toronto Star. It was the first time that four of the largest teacher unions came together to put additional pressure on the

Ford government to force it to reconsider its drastic changes to public education.

The unions include: AEFO, which represents approximately 8,000 Frenchboard teachers, the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association (OECTA) with 45,000 teachers, the Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation (OSSTF) with 60,000 teachers and the Elementary Teachers Association of Ontario (ETFO) with 45,000 members. The unity shown by the unions was intended to send a strong, clear, coherent message to the government.

The one-day strike by approximately 125,000 teachers across the province was the first time that teachers unions came together since 1997. At that time, even though they were not in a legal strike position, there was a full withdrawal of services for two weeks. The historic one-day strike action comes after ongoing job actions, which have been occurring since November 2019.

These rotating strikes, report cards with no comments and cancellation of many extracurricular activities have all

been the result of teacher’s union’s job actions. As a result of this one-day strike, there was the closure of approximately 5,000 public schools, which resulted in over two million students getting a day off.

It was truly amazing to see about 20,000 teachers lining the 30 kilometres stretch along Highway 10, from Lake Ontario to Caledon. This one-day strike still will not deter the rotating strikes from continuing. ETFO announced that it will escalate its job action to “phase six” and will announce on Monday, February 24th what this will entail.

As reported in the Toronto Star, Harvey Bischof, (President of OSSTF) announced, “It’s time the government listened to front-line educators and to parents because they are speaking with largely one voice about what they want.” OSSTF has not negotiated with the government since December 16th. The English and Catholic teacher unions met with the government on February 19th and 20th and canceled their planned rotating strike.

OSSTF will continue with their next

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rotating strike on Friday, February 28th at certain selected boards in the province.

The minister of education (as reported in the Saturday, February 22nd Toronto Sun) expressed confidence that there has been progress in the negotiations. “The fact that they opted to pause that momentum, in effect to strike today I think is really unfair to kids.”

There is no end in sight for these job actions as there is a clear impasse and stalemate between the teachers union and government. With March break, less than three weeks away and the fact that the job action has been going on since November, there is no quick resolution. This will undoubtedly continue into the spring.

For the teacher’s unions it is not simply just a desire for a pay increase beyond the 1% that the government has offered, but: the reduction of services, cutbacks of classes and decrease in teachers.

This will no doubt impact the quality of public education especially students from marginalized, at-risk, low socio-economic communities.

PAGE 36

LIFE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Nana Adjei-Poku; enhancing our legal knowledge

BY NANA ADJEI-POKU NEW TC LEGAL COLUMN I realize that there is a need for legal education here in Canada. I am a licensed paralegal in the Province of Ontario, and I am also the founder and currently sole practitioner of Infordus Legal Services. I would like to share a bit about me with you.

In 2001, after a two-year program at Humber College, I obtained my Legal Office Administration Certificate.

Shortly after, I secured my first legal position working in the Legal Department of one of Canada’s top four financial institutions, TD Bank Financial Group. I worked directly for the Associate Vice President of Litigation at that time. This was the role that officially exposed me to the “legal world” from an in-house perspective.

I worked in that role and learned a lot about how a financial institution operates from the legal standpoint. I found that after a couple of years, I was seeking a challenge and wanted more legal exposure. I applied and then secured a position as a legal assistant in one of the top Bay Street Toronto law firms, Borden Ladner Gervais LLP. I worked directly for a partner and a law clerk in the Health Law (Medical Malpractice) and Insurance Defence practice groups. Working in this capacity opened my eyes.

I wanted to become more independent so in 2005, I enrolled in Sheridan College’s Law Clerk Certificate course. This was a two-year course and was only taught at night so I would work downtown during business hours and then commute back home to Mississauga, pick up my four young sons from daycare and the babysitter, drop them to my mother’s house in Brampton and then jet to night school until 10:00 p.m. This routine became my life for the years to follow.

In 2007, I officially became a law clerk. Working as a law clerk allowed me to be more independent with my work, review files and problem solve on my

own and come up with suitable resolutions for my files. I typically carried over 100 files at any given time. I loved working in this role. I have always wanted to become a lawyer and being able to run my own files and make senior decisions felt good. I specialized in Health Law (medical malpractice), Insurance Defence, Civil Litigation and Plaintiff Personal Injury. I worked in this capacity for 10 years before, going to back to school, yet again, and becoming a licensed paralegal in 2017.

In 2018, I was working for the Ministry of Attorney General – Crown Law Office and then the Hamilton Criminal, Civil and Family Courts. I told myself in the Summer of 2019 that “I believe I have learned all I can in my capacity in the public/private sector for the past 17 years; it’s time to take this knowledge and apply it on my own.” I made the big decision to start my own business on a fulltime basis in August 2019.

Infordus Legal Services specializes in the following areas: Immigration Law (Immigration and Refugee Board matters only), Small Claims Court matters, Landlord and Tenant Tribunal matters, Provincial Offences Act and Highway Traffic Act matters, Human Rights Tribunal matters, Criminal Law (Summary offences only) and Records Suspensions and US Waivers.

As of 2020, I am halfway through completion of my immigration consultant license and expecting to be licensed come the fall. It is still my intention and goal to enroll and complete my law degree in the next couple of years.

If you don’t find me in the courtroom or tribunal in the GTA, you will definitely find me enhancing my knowledge by keeping up with the current legal and social justice news in Canada as it affects all of us. We need more people to inform and educate about what is going on around us. I am looking forward to giving back to my community by sharing issues of legal importance.

Wednesday, March 4, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

The fireplace as focal point: how to make it work If styled right, a fireplace can be a stunning focal point that pulls a room’s entire esthetic together. Here are some ways to dress yours up.

PAINT IT A BOLD COLOUR This is a great place to try out a bold tone that you wouldn’t normally use to paint a room. Because of the relatively small size of a fireplace, the colour will stand out without overpowering the space.

Is your home feeling cramped? Before you consider an addition, here are some ways you can maximize the space you have.

No matter how you style your fireplace, your choices will make an impact. Carefully consider the impression you want to make and design the feature accordingly.

REPURPOSE SPACE Many people have parts of their home that are underused. Consider turning the attic into a guest room, a storage space into an office or a closet into a reading nook for the kids.

DESIGN VERTICALLY Use vertical space to free up more room. A loft bed in a kid’s bedroom provides space for a desk underneath. And shelving units can hold lots of items without taking up a ton of floorspace. You can even install a shelf above the bathroom door to store toilet paper and cleaning supplies.

HEAD OUTDOORS An outdoor living room allows you to gain extra square footage without sacrificing indoor space. You may not be able to use it year-round, but you’ll undoubtedly appreciate it in warmer months. Install a firepit or outdoor heaters so you can keep using it once the weather gets colder.

HANG STRIKING ARTWORK A large piece of art that oc­ cupies both the horizontal and vertical space above the fireplace is sure to draw the

How to define spaces in an open concept home

PAINT IN SHADES OF ONE COLOUR Painting various areas in different shades of the same colour is a great way to visually separate one zone from another. To make sure your home maintains a cohesive look, choose a single accent colour and use it throughout the space.

STRATEGICALLY PLACE FURNITURE Sofas, chairs and tables can be placed in ways that indicate where one space ends and another begins. For example, you could place your couch in the middle of a room with its back to your dining table,

PAGE 37

Small home? Maximize your living space!

eye. The piece you choose will affect the room’s overall feel, so be sure to select something you love.

WALLPAPER THE SPACE FLANKING IT Paint the fireplace a neutral colour and apply eye-catching wallpaper to the wall space on either side of it. Choose a design that invokes the room’s style or theme.

If you’re decorating an open concept home, you’ll need to think about how to demarcate distinct areas within the layout. Here are some tips to help you do this.

HOME & GARDEN

clearly marking where the living space ends and the dining area begins.

MIX UP YOUR FLOORING Flooring can also help you create distinct zones. A simple way to do this is to lay down one or more rugs. Just make sure they’re big enough to fill their designated areas.

INSTALL VARIOUS TYPES OF LIGHTING By using an assortment of different fixtures and lamps, you can make sure you have the right lighting for every space and help delineate where one area ends and the next begins.

By following these tips, your large and airy space will feel warm and intimate.

If you live in a small home, it’s also important to think carefully about what you own. By purging what you don’t use, you’ll free up extra room.

4 types of flooring for your bathroom In a bathroom, the type of flooring you use should be water resistant, easy to clean, durable and beautiful to boot. Here are four choices that fit the bill.

1. Porcelain or ceramic tile. A popular flooring option for bathrooms, these types of tiles are versatile, relatively inexpensive and stand up well to moisture. They also come in a near endless array of colours and styles.

2. Vinyl. If you’re on a budget, vinyl planks, sheets or tiles are a great choice.

Waterproof and easy to maintain, this flooring type is a great option for bath­ rooms, but may not look as chic as other materials.

3. Natural stone. For luxurious bath­rooms, granite, marble and other types of natural stone make a great choice. Some kinds are waterproof, but others need to be sealed yearly.

4. Cork. Made from the bark of cork trees, this material is mildew and mould resistant, extremely comfortable to stand on and a sustainable, eco-friendly flooring option. However, it isn’t entirely waterproof, so it’ll need to be coated yearly with a sealant.

Any of these options can be used to create a stylish and hardworking floor. Just be sure to choose something that you’ll appreciate for years to come.

PAGE 38

TECHNOLOGY

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 4, 2020

The story of two WordPress-es - Part 1 CHRISTINA GWIRA christina@carib101.com

TECH SPECIALIST

As a designer, I get asked many times about the platform that I use in building client websites. When I first started out in web design, I coded everything from scratch. As time progressed, I was introduced to the CMS Joomla and I loved it! However, I found it to be clunky and very hard for my clients to use to manage their website. Now, my platform of choice is WordPress due to its ease of use not only for me as a developer, but also for my clients. Continue reading to learn more about the potential benefits and pitfalls of Wordpress for your business.

What is WordPress?

WordPress is an open source blogging platform and CMS (content management system). As of 2016, WordPress powered close to 30% of the websites that are currently on the web*. That’s A LOT of websites! WordPress started off as a blogging platform and has transformed over the years into a powerful website builder for websites like ours as well as networks like CNN, Playstation and The New York Times. However, did you know that there are two types of WordPress platforms that you can use for your business or blog?

WordPress.com is the hosted platform of WordPress. It is predominately used for blogging and small business websites.

WordPress.org is the open-source version of WordPress. This version allows you to download the source code onto your web host of choice and start building your own website. There are many uses for the open-source version of WordPress including but not limited to: websites, blogs, ecommerce stores and much more.

Though both WordPress.com and WordPress.org are related, there are several benefits and challenges that can come about using each one of these platforms for your website. Continue reading below to see which one is best for you and your business.

Benefits of WordPress.com Quick Points: 1. You can use the platform for FREE 2. Easy to navigate and setup 3. Updated frequently As mentioned earlier, WordPress.com is a hosted platform used mostly for blogging.

There can be very low costs associated with setting up your blog or website on Word-

Press.com. After all, you can setup your WordPress.com website for FREE! This platform comes with several hundred themes that you can use for your website that cover a variety of styles and sectors. There are also some plugins that can be added to your new website to further extend the blogging features of the platform.

In addition to the free platform, you can upgrade your WordPress.com website for as little as $4/month. Some premium features that you can add on to your website include e-commerce functionality, a custom domain name, premium themes, additional customization functions and more. Since your website is hosted on WordPress.com, you do not have to worry about hosting, security, hacking or upgrading any software since they will take care of it all for you!

Challenges of WordPress.com Quick Points: 1. Limited number of themes 2. Limited number of plugins 3. No e-commerce functionality Though there are quite a number of free and premium (paid) themes with WordPress.com, the number of available themes pales in comparison to those that are available for the open-source version of the software. In addition to having a limited number of themes, there aren’t that many custom modifications that you can make to the themes unless you decide to upgrade from the free package. If you are sticking to a budget, the extra couple of dollars for a few custom colors and fonts may not be something that you’d like.

You also have a limited number of plugins that you can use with the WordPress.com platform. Things like analytics, e-commerce, chat modules and more are all great ways to extend your blog or website. However, these types of plugins aren’t available for users of the WordPress. com platform. The way that WordPress.com handles e-commerce is either by upgrading from the free plan, or having another e-commerce website hosted elsewhere and then linking that back to your website.

This isn’t exactly an elegant or professional solution.

Conclusion If you’re looking to pay a small monthly fee to get your blog or small business website out there, you should consider using WordPress.com for your website. It provides you with the security in knowing that your website is safe is great for SEO (search engine optimization) and can provide you with many ways to extend the uses of your website. In the next issue, I’ll be talking about my preferred version of WordPress and the full possibilities that it has to offer you and I: WordPress.org.

FUN

Wednesday, March 4, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 39

WEEK OF MARCH 1 TO MARCH 7 2020

ARIES

The luckiest signs this week: LEO, VIRGO AND LIBRA

Your health is an essential com-ponent of your happiness. New eating habits will transform your life and you’ll be proud to have persevered.

TAURUS

Everyone around you is a critic this week. You’ll have no choice but to build a solid argument to defend yourself. Your comments could put you in the spotlight.

PUZZLE NO. 704 ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 704

HOW TO PLAY :

GEMINI

You’ll receive an unexpected fi-nancial windfall, possibly from an insurance claim that was ac-cepted. You find yourself very popular this week, especially in your love life.

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.

CANCER

It’s important to weigh all the pros and cons before making a decision that involves money. Some people, however, will try to make you believe that if you don’t buy now, the opportunity will expire.

Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column, or 3x3 box.

LEO

PUZZLE NO. 967 member 50. Dishwasher cycle 53. Got up 54. Distance across a circle 56. Straightforward 57. Know the ____ and outs 58. Stern 59. Annoying one 60. Paid announcements 61. Adjusts, as a watch

20. Curved bone 22. Summer shade 24. Unusual 25. “You ____ My Sunshine” 27. Itch 29. No-show 30. Flying formation 31. Poem 33. Item of clothing 35. Bowling-frame

number 38. Sweet tuber 40. Angler’s bait 43. Radio and TV 45. Docks 46. Go down 47. Heavy twine 48. Employs 49. Outer coat 51. Position 52. Misjudges 55. Mule’s kin

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 967

DOWN

ACROSS

1. Drinks noisily 5. Testing area 8. At the peak 12. Brainchild 13. Browning’s before 14. Green citrus fruit 15. Noon, to some

17. Courage 18. Academy Award 19. Avenues 21. Fix up copy 23. Bro or sis 24. Klutz 26. Foot the bill 28. Hurrah 32. Medicine

34. Profit 36. On a cot 37. Impede 39. Turn over a ____ leaf 41. Interview 42. Barnyard male 44. Slangy negative 46. Rock-band

1. Chauffeured car 2. Fruit coolers 3. Quiet 4. Kind of bar 5. Flowered necklace 6. “A Farewell to ____” 7. Red vegetables 8. Geometry’s cousin 9. Fatigue 10. Eliminate 11. Caresses 16. Expedition

You’ll question your life this week. You may feel like you’ve hit a roadblock in your career or that others are trying to get in your way. By the end of the week, you’ll have the answers to all your questions and will move past your confusion.

VIRGO

You’ll clean up this week, both at home and at work. You need a tidy environment in order to think clearly. You’ll get lots of help from the people in your life.

LIBRA

If you’re still trying to find your way professionally, you’ll gain the insight you need to take on a new challenge. Changes will bring abundance to your life.

SCORPIO

You’ll feel an increasing need to take a class or study something that will expand your spiritual horizons. A trip or pilgrimage will be planned.

SAGITTARIUS

This is an excellent week to take out a loan or to renegotiate your mortgage. You’ll find a defini-tive solution to all your financial troubles without changing your lifestyle.

CAPRICORN

At work, you’ll have a record num-ber of clients and consequently increase your earning po tential. If you’re single, you’ll meet someone special at a friendly gathering.

AQUARIUS

At work and at home, take the time to think about the projects that you have on the go. Be sure to negotiate better conditions if you can and double-check all the details.

PISCES

Moving into a new home is some-thing that needs to be planned in advance. This week, you’ll take the first steps and evaluate the work that needs to be done. You’ll be very proud to make this dream come true.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING

Meet Arvin This seven month old Angel was rushed to Hospital after he began to have trouble breathing. It was discovered that he suffered from a condition where very little blood was flowing to the lungs and there was not enough oxygenated blood circulating through his little body. Due to extremely low oxygen levels he was rushed into the operating room for emergency surgery where a shunt was placed to increase blood flow to his lungs. This saved his life. Due to his small size however, this temporary treatment would only allow him to survivelong enough to undergo future surgeries. After a few days, he was able to breathe on his own and drank his first bottle of milk one week after surgery. In the next few years, Arvin will need one or two more surgeries before he is completely cured.

@tccfangels #tccfangels | to donate www.tccfangels.com

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BUSINESS/PROPERTY: Operational Profiting Business with existing government contract and local businesses. 15,000 Sq including 4 bedroom house with machine shop. Available for purchase or lease. Call Harry 416419-0685

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CAREGIVER: Experience Caregiver looking for a full or part time position to work in a home taking care of seniors. Available on weekends. Call Kristine 647971-8983.

FORWANTED SALE HELP

TRAVEL COMPANION: Do you love to travel? I’m looking for someone to travel with as company. I am Pete, 45, phone 416 264 3024. email golden7words@ yahoo.com

WASHER: Whirlpool Heavy Duty Super Supreme capacity washer.

Eight cylinders, 2-speed motor. $425.00. Call Jim 647-308-0482.

Email: amos.johnson11@yahoo.ca

FOR RENT SALE FOR ROOM: Furnish Rooms for Rent in Brampton.Close to Shoppers World Female students or working person prefer . Non Smoker ,no pets, ground level walk out to large backward. Call 416-9999720.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY SEEKING MALE/FEMALE FOR A COOK/CLEANER TO WORK IN A PERSONAL CARE HOME IN DOWNTOWN TORONTO. CALL MARTHA 416-922-7674 OR EMAIL RESUME

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Tel: 416 504 0990 www.aiainsurance.ca

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Sandra's Multicultural Fashion Boutique & Custom Sewing Alteration Done on Premises Can restyle any outfit Specilizating in Wedding, Men's Suit, Traditional Indian Wear, Motorcycle Leather Jackets, Pants and much more

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REGGAE MUSIC WANTED Cash for Jazz,Soca, Soul LPS and Reggae 45's Also buying speakers, turntables and stereos

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PAGE 42

REAL ESTATE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Negotiate better, avoid conflicts and cultivate better relationships - Part I JAY BRIJPAUL brijpaul@carib101.com

REAL ESTATE PRO

Fire, earth, air and water define our personalities. In 1928, Dr. William Moulton Marston wrote “Emotions of Normal People,” resulting in the DISC Personality System. Today, more than one million businesses adopt this model to assess personalities. There are four distinct personality traits: The Driver (D), The Influencer (I), The Supportive (S) and The Critical (C). Supportive and Critical thinkers are slow paced and a left-brain personality while Drivers and Influencers are faster paced and right brain personality.

In the realms of real estate, we encounter many types of personalities. We deal on a daily basis with buyers, sellers, mortgage brokers, bankers, building inspectors, appraisers, accountants, contractors, landlords, tenant, and the list goes on. By perceiving someone’s personality, we can adjust our style and can choose better tenants, nego-

tiate better deals, make friends and avoid conflicts. News Corp Australia, a giant news media, wrote an article on personality traits where they associate the various personalities with birds.

Driver (D) Personality - Eagle (FAST) Drivers love to fly high above the crowd and in so doing, oversee everything. We can compare the D-personality to a lion. The lion is “the king of the jungle” and loves to roar. D personalities make good CEO’s for companies and often start their own business. They make quick decisions, value time and are self and ego driven. D-personalities are often forceful in nature, mashing toes and getting into trouble easily. The D-personality takes on many tasks at once and loves new adventures. They are not detail-oriented, dislike routine tasks, and have poor listening skills.

When dealing with a D-personality, give them the beginning, the middle and the end. I recall an incident where a landlord and his tenant clashed over everything. I met both parties at the property and realized that the tenant was a D-personality. I explained to the landlord that we must let the tenant feel he is in control. The home needed a good cleaning and some landscaping done. I got the tenant involved in getting quotes for the job and overseeing the project. The biggest

fear of a D-personality is being taken advantage of and by letting him be in charge that fear disappeared.

I negotiated a commercial purchase for one of my clients. At our first meeting with the seller, I determined that the seller was a D-personality. He was impatient, controlling, and spoke quickly. At our second meeting, I gave the seller a binder with my assessment of the property. I included photographs showing the state of the property, the property’s net income and justified why I thought that the property’s value was less. Knowing his personality, I prepared a summary page in point form. The seller picked up the report, thumbed through the pages, looked at the photography, read the summary and gave it to his realtor for review. The next day, we found out that the offer was accepted.

Influencer (I) Personality - Peacock (Fast) Peacocks love excitement. You can identify this personality because they love to talk.

They are full of life, charisma and charm.

Double handshakes and colourful clothes are characteristics of an I-personality. They are often late for appointments, speed and run red lights. Their approach is ready, fire, aim. They fear rejection and don’t know when to stop talking. They dislike details and are usually disorganized. I personalities are good in sales.

They will spend five minutes closing the deal and two hours socializing. Because of their charisma, they are great entertainers.

Marian was in negotiation with Henrick, an I-personality. In Henrick’s office, there was a picture of his dog. Marion looked at the photo and said, “That’s a lovely dog.” Henrick spent the next ten minutes talking about his dog. They spent the next thirty minutes chatting and finally got down to business. Henrick was selling his home and had two other offers but preferred to work with Marian’s offer because he felt a connection.

I came across a novice landlord who socialized with his tenants. The tenants often praised him for being nice and knowing his nature, would ask for concessions. It started with new appliances and then, late payments.

I got involved and advised him to change his approach. All future communications for the property should be done through the landlord’s son. I personalities get carried away quickly and need to be refocused often.

When dealing with I personalities, flattery works.

Next edition, we will review the last two personality types, and I will provide you with more real life examples. This week, start seeing how you can identify yourself in the first two personalities. Do they resonate with you?

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PAGE 44

FINANCE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 4, 2020

It’s tax time again!

FAZAAD BACCHUS fazaad@carib101.com

FINANCE SPECIALIST

Today I would like to discuss some of the T slips that you have been receiving, what they mean and how to use them. Any explanations do not constitute tax advice and you are encouraged to seek out a tax professional especially for complex tax issues.

Let’s start with the one that most persons are familiar with, your T4 slip. As an employee you should be receiving this slip. It states your employer’s name, your name, address and social insurance number, what your employer paid you, how much income tax was deducted, how much employment insurance and CPP contributions were deducted on your behalf. You should receive this slip before the end of February and if you don’t, you can always ask your employ-

er for a duplicate copy. If unable to retrieve it from your employer, you may also register with CRA and view your slips on line.

Failing to obtain a slip is no excuse to not file your returns, add up your pay slips and make an estimate and use it to file.

If you are self employed you will receive a T4A slip which generally has the same information with a few exceptions. As a self employed or commissioned individual there will be no employment insurance deducted and a self employed person is also responsible for the entire CPP required contribution. T4A slips also report income such as certain portions of pensions, retirement and annuities.

If you are retired and claiming your OAS benefits you should be receiving a T4A (OAS), this is taxable benefit to you, and you may request of Service Canada to make a deduction every month to cater for this tax. Remember that the OAS has a claw back threshold when your net income reaches $79,054.

If you are receiving CPP benefits, you should be receiving a T4A (P). This statement shows what you have received, what taxes at source was deducted and

what source it’s from, whether it’s due to you receiving your pension or whether its disability claims, survivors benefit, child benefit, or even as far as stating the death benefit on a final return. The max CPP benefit for 2020 is $1,175.83 per month; however it is based on your contributions.

Are you in between jobs and have been receiving employment insurance benefits, then you should be receiving a T4E. It should state the amount received, the various categories and any income tax deducted.

Another slip which one should also become familiar with is the T4RIF slip.

All LIF’s and RRIF’s are taxable income, therefore your slip will indicate the amount you received and the amount of taxes deducted at source. A point to note is that the taxes deducted at source may not be the amount owed, but just the withholding amount, so please bear that in mind when filing.

And finally, the T4RSP which shows your contribution to your RRSP and the amount your taxable income will reduce by. Take advantage of this benefit.

Estate trustee - Me? Please help me!

ANDREW STEWART andrew@carib101.com

FAMILY ADVISOR

If you’ve read any financial articles or listened to any business television and radio shows over the last 10 years, you may have heard about the “Greatest Slow-Motion Demographic Transfer of Wealth in Canadian history.” At this point, you’re probably thinking what this has anything to do with me? Or how does this even affect me? Well in simple terms, it has to do with when a large number of people were born, and at what age will they start to die and transfer their wealth down to the next generation.

The baby boomer bump was from 1947 to 1967, but the surge in births actually started in 1937. So that means every person born in 1937 turned 80 years old in 2017.

So if your parents are around that age, you or a sibling might be named as their estate trustee.

Based on surveys and statistics it is estimated that 70% of Canadians are with-

out a current and valid will. Also, the percentage of Canadians appointing a family member as their estate trustee is 98%, it seems we are looking at this as a DIY job.

Amazingly from past trustees surveyed, 47% reported administrative complications, 31% reported emotional issues and 26% reported legal issues. What I’m trying to get across is if you are the estate trustee or know someone who will be, do you know what you’re getting into and how to handle it?

At first, you might be flattered at being named estate trustee, but that’s just your ego talking. Losing a loved one brings on a flood of different emotions; disbelief, anguish, loss, fear, shock, grief, and an overwhelming sense that our world has suddenly and permanently changed. A common question that grips each of us is, “what do I do now?” Can you perform the most immediate tasks following the death of a loved one? A trustee has a fiduciary duty, which means they must always act in good faith and with loyalty.

Funeral arrangements: Understanding the myriad of decisions involved in celebrating the end of life and the importance of ensuring the success of this one-time-only event for a diverse group of grieving loved ones. The funeral is often a

difficult and emotional time for many and comes with challenging economic choices as well. Trustees discover they may be required to make decisions on matters they might never have had to deal with in the past and this, for many, will be their first foray.

Notifications: Who needs to be informed? Friends, family and extended family come to mind quickly, but there are actually far more people and organizations that need to be informed over the weeks and months.

Government benefits: Some people rely on government benefits to support them when a primary-earning spouse dies, and the limitations can be upsetting.

Understanding the types of government benefits, how to apply and what documentation is necessary will be important. CPP death benefit, CPP survivor and children’s benefits, veteran’s benefits, old age security, the impact of disability, notification to cancel OAS benefit as well as the taxation of benefits to name a few.

These are just some of the items an estate trustee has to think about and execute on. The accountability is not just on the trustee but also on the parents and testators. Get informed and be prepared ahead of time…

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PAGE 46

SPORTS

Women fall short to Pakistan at World Cup while young Canadian star reaches new heights KAYLA KARIM

kayla@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The women’s West Indies team was in action earlier this week at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup at Canberra against Pakistan.

The Windies women made 124 runs, not having the greatest start, losing their first wicket on the very first ball of the match. After that wicket, the women weren’t able to regain their momentum. Although Stefanie Taylor (43) and Shemaine Campbell (43) had a decent partnership (63) runs, for the fourth wicket, it wasn’t enough only able to post 124-7 in 20 overs.

Pakistan was able to easily chase the 124 that West Indies posted with help from Diana Baig, Javeria Khan, and captain Bismah Maroof. The opening pair of Muneeba Ali and Javeria Khan made it look easy adding 58 runs for the first wicket. Javeria got out for 35 followed by Ali for 25 but the skipper Bismah Maroof and middle-order batter, Nida Dar held their ends and reached the target with ten balls to spare. Baig claimed two wickets while Anam Amin bagged one. Dar and Aiman Anwer were able to get two wickets each.

Pakistan will now take on South Africa on Sunday, March 1st, 2020 at Sydney Showground Stadium while West Indies will face England.

Meanwhile, in Canada, Hars Thaker

has been named as one of the fourteen cricketers who will represent Canada at the March 14-27 Malaysia hosted International Cricket Conference (ICC) Cricket World Cup Challenge League A. Thaker had an outstanding all-round performance both at bat and ball for Canada during last November’s St. Kitts hosted Zone A at the Colonial Medical Insurance Super50 Championships.

As a batsman, he scored 223 runs from 8 innings, at a 31.85 average. Apart from the average chart-topping Nitish Kumar, Thaker was the only other Canadian batsman to score over two hundred runs and average above 30 during the Super50 Championships.

With the ball, Thaker’s performances were even more impressive. He was undoubtedly Canada’s best bowler at the Super50 Tournament, capturing the most wickets (10) from 43 overs bowled. His 18.90 average was also the lowest among all of Canada’s bowlers.

This year’s Malaysia 2020 ICC CWC Challenge League A will be the second leg of the three-year 2019–2021 Tournament which forms part of the 2023 Cricket World Cup Qualification process for the twelve teams that are ranked 21-32 in the ICC’s standings.

The twelve teams have been split into two groups, with each group playing a six-team tournament on an annual basis. The top team in each group will advance to a 2022 playoff tournament.

Canada’s 2020 Challenge League A opponents will be Denmark, Qatar, Singapore, Vanuatu and the Tournament hosts Malaysia. The Canadians will be hoping to extend the position they secured as league leaders having suffered just one loss, to Singapore, during in the 2019 Tournament to head Group A with eight points.

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 4, 2020

New decade - new King of boxing MARCEL MARIAK marcel@carib101.com

TC JUNIOR REPORTER

Tyson “Gypsy King” Fury dethrones the Bronze Bomber in action-packed face-off!

February 22nd was host to one of this year’s most anticipated boxing matchups: WBC heavyweight champion, Deontay “Bronze Bomber” Wilder, took on famous British boxer, Tyson “Gypsy King” Fury. The fight was everything a boxing fan could hope for: full of pre-fight hostility, trash talk, boxing action, and a breathtaking conclusion.

The History The tension and anticipation leading this matchup wasn’t caused by the presence of the WBC championship belt, but rather by the history and previous drama between the two boxers. In December of 2018, the two warriors met in the ring for the first time; with Wilder defending his WBC heavyweight belt. Both boxers are known for their immense striking power and were previously undefeated, with Wilder holding a (40-0) record, and Fury’s record being (27-0). The lead up to the fight was extremely tense: both fighters exchanged heavy trash talk and with both of their perfect records on the line, the magnitude of the match was clear to both the competitors and the boxing community at large. During the bout, Fury mercilessly walked Wilder down, keeping him on his heels and attacking him with a barrage of powerful strikes. Wilder also had his moments in the fight, knocking Fury down twice toward the end of the match.

After twelve rounds, both boxers had their hands raised after a split decision draw. The anticlimactic result caused an uproar in the boxing community, with many believing that Tyson Fury deserved to win the fight.

After the bout, both fighters were interviewed; and they vowed to have a rematch and settle the score once and for all.

The Battle Over a year after their last fight, the warriors were ready to step into the ring and prove themselves once and for all. In the lead up to the bout, it was clear that both boxers were taking the rematch very seriously. Tyson Fury even hired a new trainer to change his style and revamp his game. Walking to the ring, Fury and Wilder looked ready for war, and boxing fans couldn’t wait to find out which one of the powerful warriors would reign supreme.

From the start of the match, it became clear that Tyson Fury had changed his game tremendously: no longer was he patiently waiting for the perfect strike. Instead, he was endlessly pressuring Wilder with powerful strikes and forcing him to fight while retreating. While Wilder was landing strikes and hurting Fury, it was obvious that Fury was the dominant boxer. Tyson Fury opened up a cut on his opponent’s head in the second round, and by the fifth round, he had managed to completely exhaust Wilder with his ruthless onslaught. From that point on, Wilder’s attacks became almost inexistent; with him desperately attempting to clinch with his opponent to have a brief moment of rest. It was only a matter of time until Fury backed Wilder into a corner and began to unload his powerful strikes. Wilder’s corner chose to throw in the towel and protect their fighter from any further damage; resulting in a seventh-round TKO victory for Tyson Fury.

The Aftermath During the post-fight press conference, Fury soaked in the victory which he had been waiting over a year for. Nevertheless, he still remained humble and admitted that Wilder is an amazing boxer and, “He doesn’t go down easy.” Fury also commented on his mentality during the fight, “I believed that if he couldn’t beat me when I was fifty percent of the man I am today,” emphasized Fury, “he never stood a chance tonight.” The futures of both Wilder and Fury are unclear. Wilder will likely be looking to bounce back from his loss and have a chance at recapturing the heavyweight title in the coming years; while Tyson Fury now has the gargantuan task of protecting not only his heavyweight belt but also his undefeated legacy.

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