Women Celebrated 030916

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WOMEN CELEBRATED PHOTO: SARA MILLER/TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Award Show Highlights Contributions Made By Women SARA MILLER/TORONTO CARIBBEAN

To mark International Women’s Day on Tuesday, March 8, 2016, members of the community came together to recognize and honor the achievements of eighteen women who have contributed to local and worldwide community development at the International Women’s Achievers Awards. Created

by Princess M. Boucher who is the President and CEO of Princess Promotion Enterprise and Princess Fae Peer Mediation Centre, the mission for the IWAA is to give tribute to women of all cultures, nationalities and ethnicities

and to celebrate their work and contributions as women to society. A wonder woman in her own right, nothing seems impossible for the Jamaican mother of seven who not only ran for Brampton and Toronto City Council in 2010 and 2014 but is also a proud figure in her own community.

The IWAA was hosted at the Jamaican Canadian Community Centre where friends, family and colleagues came out to support one another with intense enthusiasm. Actress and songwriter, Kate Todd interviewed the

award nominees as the red carpet host.

The evening started with the Canadian national anthem and an opening prayer from Paster E. Brian. For the rest of the night, the award show was hosted

by Nikki Clarke, founder of the Nikki Clarke Network and Mishael Morgan, Toronto native and actress on the daytime hit series “The Young and the Restless”. Every awardee was met with applause as they accepted their wellearned awards on stage.

Continued On Page 5

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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Camille Kerr; Empowering Women to Build a Thriving Caribbean Community Camille Kerr has always been deeply connected to her Caribbean roots. Born here in Canada to Trinidadian Immigrants, Camille and her two younger brothers were encouraged to honor and identify with their Trinidadian culture and family history growing up in a city where they weren’t the majority in the population.

Growing up here in Toronto her family is very tight knit, spending a lot of quality time together, with their parents being very engaged in what they were learning in school. It was important that although they were the minority in the classroom, they should never feel isolated and know there was a whole community of Caribbean people standing behind them.

Camille graduated from the University of Toronto with a BA Hon. in Sociology, Philosophy and Political Science. Over the years she would hear about problems and issues that arose singling out people from the Caribbean Community. Taking the initiative to do some research on her own, she was appalled by what she found in the statistics surveyed from people in the Caribbean community in regards to career, education and the rate of single mothers where the term ‘least likely’ was used more than a few times. It was upsetting to know that her community was portrayed in this way knowing they could do so much better for themselves if they would take the time to talk, connect and unite with each other.

While there was some truth in the stats, Camille saw it as more of a guideline and a challenge waiting to be accepted. She knew that she could no longer sit back and watch

as the Caribbean Community, her community, was boxed in with other groups and publicly ridiculed through the stigmas they were associated with. Her deep love and appreciation for her individuality and connection to the Caribbean community prompted her to take action.

Two years ago after the birth of her last two children, Camille sat down and reappraised her research. She devised her own plan to get out and help the community rallying the women of the community together to invest and do their part to renew the quality of life for the Caribbean Community. Camille founded the Caribbean Women’s Society (CSW) an incorporated, grassroots, not-for-profit organization whose vision is “a thriving Caribbean community in Canada”. Camille has developed a plan to address those issues and transform the Caribbean community, inclusive of the various racial groups within, to ensure that this generation and the future ones will have an enhanced opportunity at prosperity.

The CWS’s goal is “to connect and empower Caribbean women” all of whom are then, in turn, accountable for teaching, motivating and enabling their family, friends and community to do the same. In addition to fostering their unique and admirable selfimages, celebrating their culture, reinforcing their shared ties and encouraging meaningful friendships, the members’ monthly gatherings entail addressing relevant issues, brainstorming, strategizing and executing initiatives to remove potential and existing barriers for them; and ultimately, their community.

As a mother to five bright young minds and a wife to her husband of Jamaican heritage, Camille knows that now is the time to act, to share, empower and educate women through her initiative so they to can contribute now and prepare future generations for the success of the Caribbean Community. “We are so ethnically diverse, from so many racial backgrounds, that we must do our part to educate non-Caribbean’s about who we are and not become victims of circumstance, but stand together and support each other in unity.”

CWS is urging cooperation from the Caribbean-Canadian community to take their lead and resolve to connect with and empower each other, personally and professionally; as it’s the distinct key to communal success for generations to come.

CWS is calling for additional members, volunteers, donations and sponsorships to fuel their national growth and to further their cause. For more information, contact Camille at cwsociety@outlook.com or facebook.com/cwsociety2015 Written by Alyssa Mahadeo Toronto Caribbean Reporter

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

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Guyana gets ready for golden jubilee celebrations Emily Singh

emily@carib101.com

TC Reporter Guyana’s official motto is one people, one nation, one destiny. On May 26, 2016 this beautiful country will be celebrating its golden jubilee of independence. On May 26, 1966 Guyana officially gained its independence from Britain. As Toronto gears up to celebrate these fifty beautiful years of independence it is important to acknowledge just how far Guyana has come as a country.

American flag historian Whitney Smith created the design for the flag, which was officially adopted on May 26,1966. As we raise our beautiful golden arrowhead proudly for the world to see, let us not forget what each colour signifies. The green represents the lush forests and agricultural nature

of Guyana, the white represents the many flowing rivers and water potential, the golden symbolizes its rich mineral wealth, the bold black is a sign of endurance and finally the red represents the zeal and dynamism of the beautiful people of Guyana.

Many exciting events will be happening here in Toronto to commemorate this momentous milestone. On May 26, 2016 come out at 11:30 am and watch as our beautiful flag is raised high outside Toronto City Hall. On May 29, 2016 the Golden Jubilee Awards and Show will be taking place at the St. Lawrence Centre for the Performing Arts.

This evening will showcase the beautiful culture and talents that Guyana has to offer.

On July 2, 2016 commencing at 6 pm will be the Golden Jubilee Gala at Le Parc Dining and Banquet Hall. The very next day on July 3. 2016 will be the day everyone has been waiting for, the Guyana Festival! This is a fun filled day the entire family can come out and enjoy. This year the CNE Bandstand will be host to the festivities. The annual cricket and soccer match will be taking place east of the city in Scarborough and the celebration will make its way to the downtown core. In

the spirit of promoting health and wellness in the Guyanese community a walk-a-thon will be taking place on September 10, 2016.

Make sure to visit www.guy50canada.com for more information on the location of the walk-a-thon which is yet to be determined.

Finally, we will wrap up the grand celebrations with a symposium. This will serve as an opportunity to discuss race relations and touch on pressing issues pertaining to Guyana.

“I belong to the Berbice Children Resource Network Corporation, every year we put on the walk-a-thon which is part of a fundraiser to help pay for kids to write the CXC examination in Berbice. This year we hope to have the walk-a-thon happening simultaneously here in Canada, Guyana and the US,” says Pam Joseph, Assistant Secretary.

As we celebrate together as one people, one nation and one destiny it is important to reflect back on the history, but it is equally if not more imperative that we plan for the future. Young people and the up and coming generation are the future. With this in mind there is a special competition called

“Express Yourself Guyanese Style”, spearheaded by committee member Valerie Dye. “One of the things we hope to gain from the activities that we have planned is to create awareness amongst young people of Guyanese heritage. One way we think awareness can be created is to get them involved in a competition where they will express themselves. There is an essay competition, poetry competition, song writing competition, artistic piece and a video submission,” says Valerie Dye. These amazing plans would not be possible without the dedication and determination of the Honorary Consul General Consulate of the Republic of Guyana, Mrs. Sattie Sawh. As chair of the 50th Independence Anniversary Committee, Sawh has been working tirelessly along with her team to make this a historical event here in Toronto. As plans start to unfold for the momentous celebration make sure to visit www. guy50canada.com for updates and more information. Fifty years is surely something that deserves a grand celebration as we share with the world the beauty, diversity, culture and rich history that is our Guyana.

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IWAA celebrates women Sara Miller

sara@carib101.com

TC Reporter Continued From Page 1 -- Annie Persaud, one of the youngest to receive an award that night, was given the Entertainment Award, which recognizes the talents of rising stars across all of the entertainment sectors. Persaud who has been singing since she was only seven years old, has managed to have quite an accomplished resume under her belt, performing with major artists such as Lady Luscious, Luciano, Vanessa Bling and Gyptian. She is also the winner of the 2015 JAAMM Idol talent competition and has traveled to perform at Mini Miss Portland in Jamaica. Wearing a red dress, topped off with a tiara, she surprised the audience with her soulful voice and high notes at the end of her heartfelt speech.

Another winner of the night was Constable Mina Rahravan, who received the Community Development Award, which honors women for their commitment to improving the lives of the people that they serve. A perfect example of resilience and strength, Rahravan grew up during a war which ravaged her city of Tehran located in Iran. Determined at an early age to be a peacekeeper, Rahravan joined the York Regional Police in 2009 and became the first female to hold the Tactical Flight Officer

position. As her proud colleagues watched on, during her speech Rahravan credited her culturally sensitive approach to policing to her experiences interacting with people from diverse backgrounds. Other awardees of the night included, Grace Nakajje, who was given the Humanitarian award for her role in promoting the health of underprivileged women and girls in Uganda, Tylaine Duggan, who was given the Diversity Award for her work in business and Toronto’s Youth Day and Sophia Findlay, who was given the Women in Media award for her amazing and numerous contributions as a journalist in the field of journalism. The ceremony was not complete without some good entertainment from the likes of Canadian reggae artist Lady Luscious, whose musical beats had people dancing in their seats and award winning vocalist Shawnee, whose powerhouse vocals shook the stage with passion and energy.

As the ceremony came to a close, the message was loud and clear. The women awarded at this year’s IWAA only make up a fraction of the accomplishments that women are achieving around the globe every day.

Since its creation in the early 1900’s, International Woman’s Day is celebrated in over one hundred different countries and highlights the achievements of women in the political, cultural, social and economic sectors.

But the day is not only for celebration. It also serves to reflect and bring awareness to issues such as gender inequality, reproductive rights and pay inequality, which still affects millions of women and young girls today.

However, judging by the ladies who received awards at the IWAA, the global community will know that no goal is too high for a woman to achieve.

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Budget 2016 - What can we expect for the year ahead?

Alyssa Mahadeo

alyssa@carib101.com

TC Reporter As an Ontario taxpayer, there is a lot that we can educate ourselves on when it comes to how the province is spending money. Every year thousands of dollars are budgeted towards different aspects of building up the city’s economy, supplementing the growth of the infrastructure, and investing in the creation of new jobs or funding education.

Hon. Mitzie Hunter, Associate Minister of Finance Responsible for the Ontario Retirement Pension Plan provided some insight as how the 2016 budget will be allocated for this year, distributed to some of the most pressing matters facing the economy right now. Budget 2016 – Jobs for Today and Tomorrow, will address the provinces growing economy by investing money in the infrastructure to stimulate job growth, provide financial aid for students from middle income families and a free alternative to students from lower income families, as well as a commitment to confronting racism in all forms, to advance equality for all residing in the province of Ontario with the creation of the anti-racism Directorate.

The 2016 budget promises to invest $160 billion over the next twelve years in the infrastructure in Ontario. This will be the biggest asset to infrastructure development in Ontario’s history. Through this investment the province expects that this will help in the creation of new jobs that will in turn boost the economy and encourage more people to travel. The main priority this year is to stimulate growth in the economy and create more jobs. Since the recession in 2009 Ontario has created more than 600,000 jobs and is well on the course to creating more than 300,000 additional jobs by the end of 2019. As our population grows the need for these new jobs are imperative to helping the population spend more time with family and improving the movement of adding 110,000 jobs per year. The budget highlighted that a major part of the investment would be in developing improved and increased GO rail service, transit, subway expansions, road developments and funding towards building more hospitals.

Over the next year, the deficit is predicted to be $5.7 billion, which is $2.8 billion lower than anticipated in the 2015 Budget. The government is projecting a deficit of $4.3 billion in 2016–2017. Ontario will balance the budget in 2017–2018, while continuing to make investments that stimulate economic growth and create jobs.

Starting next year Ontario is planning to make college and university more affordable as well as more accessible to prepare more students to fill the positions of all the

new jobs of tomorrow. Ontario is transforming student assistance to lower the cost of tuition for middle-income families and making it free for students with financial needs with incomes of $50,000 or lower. This will ensure that students from families of low income will have no provincial student debt while increasing access to interest-free and low-cost loans for middle and upper-income families. Non-repayable grants that will exceed average tuition will be provided to more than 50% of students from families of $83,000 or less. They will also be improving access to postsecondary education and training for First Nation, Métis and Inuit learners through continuing the three year, $97 million investment. This financial support will be made available to mature students ensuring that all students will be the same or better off under the Ontario Tuition Grant.

The Ontario government is dedicated to creating opportunities for all Ontarians by helping them to achieve their fullest potential. Budget 2016 promises an improvement in services for children with autism through a five-year, $333 million investment. A substantial part of the budget will be contributed to strides in health care making the shingles vaccine free for eligible Ontario seniors between the ages of 65 and 70 — saving them about $170, reducing surgery wait times and social assistance in end of life care. A new strategy in an effort to end chronic homelessness over the next ten years, they are giving more people access to adequate and affordable housing through

a three year investment of $178 million, as part of the Long-Term Affordable Housing.

Committed to making everyday life easier for all Ontarians, a significant portion of the budget is allocated to reducing hospital parking fees for frequent hospital users at hospitals that charge more than $10 a day, eliminating the $30 Drive Clean emissions test fee, saving money on electricity, auto insurance and increasing consumer convenience and choice by introducing wine, beer and cider in grocery stores across the province.

One of the biggest movements put into action by the 2016 budget is the creation of the Anti-Racism Directorate, a commitment to addressing racism in all forms whether it is ending violence against Indigenous women, carding or any type of racial profiling to advance the equality of all Ontarians. The Anti-Racism Directorate promises to work together with community organizations educational institutions and the Ontario Human Rights Commission to increase public education and awareness of racism to create a more inclusive province and employ an anti-racism lens in developing, implementing and evaluating government policies, programs and services. The Anti-Racism Directorate is part of the government’s commitment to fight discrimination and ensure that everyone in Ontario has the opportunity to fulfill their potential and participate equally in society. For more information, visit Ontario.ca/budget.

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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Jamaica National Developers/Realtors MEET AND GREET! Invest in your piece of the rock!

Alyssa Mahadeo

alyssa@carib101.com

TC Reporter Picture this. A gorgeous two bedroom detached home, modern, upscale and luxuriously spacious nestled in the picturesque landscape of the islands mountainous regions. This property overlooks a spectacular view of Jamaica’s Montego Bay that can be enjoyed from the comfort of the homes stylish veranda.

It’s enough to take your breath away and best of all it’s yours for the taking.

The opportunity to purchase real estate on the rock is a hot commodity to anyone looking for the ultimate in affordable living solutions and making the dream of home ownership a reality.

Jamaica National Building Society hosted a developer and realtor meet and greet this past weekend to give the public a chance to hear directly from some of Jamaica’s top real estate developers and relators about how they can work together and help them to invest in their own piece of the rock.

Over the course of the evening, attendees were able to hear from developers like the West Indies Home Contractors Limited (WIHCON) about new project developments.

In business for over 54 years, WIHCON is here for the diaspora to provide more information about how they can go about investing and owning property in Jamaica. Over the past few months the weather here in Canada has been unconventional to say the least.

More of the Caribbean community is looking for ways to move back home to the islands, but also maintain the modern lifestyle they are used to here in Canada.

The properties available for sale in Jamaica are all a part of exclusive developments with some of the best views, security and accessibility providing an enhanced living experience.

Currently they have two new developments in the works The Meadows in St. James and in the sunshine parish of St. Catherines, both located very close to the beach if you are looking to soak up some sunshine and really enjoy living the island lifestyle. There are a variety of detached units available. St. James offers opportunities for either investment of expansion while the town houses of St. Catherines is one of the first developments to bring uninterruptible power to the community with solar panels and

battery backups.

If you are looking for more luxurious living, say buyers wanting to come to Jamaica and have something they can run in an out of quickly, WIHCON’s Forest Ridge has a collection of studio style two bedroom properties to family oriented two and three bedroom condos. All developments are gated and maintained with 24-hour security. They include first class amenities such as a pool, gym, clubhouses and playground areas for the children.

In Montego Bay properties start from $102,000 Cdn - $153,000 Cdn, and in St. Catherines starting at 175,000 Cdn. In Forest Ridge homes can range from $170,000 - $370,000 Cdn. Depending on your lifestyle or budget these developers can guarantee they can find a home for you in the island in the sun. They offer quality communities and luxury living that include contemporarily designed open concept layouts with modern finishes. Jamaica National is happy to answer any questions that you might have. Looking into getting a loan or a mortgage for your new paradise on the rock, they are readily available to sit down and discuss the application process, to make it an easy and enjoyable journey to becoming a home owner in Jamaica.

Women for Peace Day celebrates self-discovery and female empowerment Miguel Mabilangan miguel@carib101.com

TC Reporter At 11AM on Sunday March 6th, the Toronto community gathered at the Skills for Change Centre on St Claire Avenue to take part in the Women for Peace Day for self-discovery and female empowerment. Hosted by the Sacred Women’s International organization, the event raised awareness about the issues created by patriarchal oppression and why this leads to violence towards women, while at the same time, helping women learn and embrace the feminine power within them through various activities so that they can “be the change”.

The Sacred Women’s International is an organization that supports women and men by helping them reconnect with the power of self so that they

are able to implement positive change and they base their techniques around African spirituality and rituals. Aina Nia Ayo’dele, the organization’s founder and managing director says that she aims to help women “walk out with some truths and simple techniques to support families and communities on a daily basis.

My purpose is to not leave you feeling enchanted or hyped, but to feel strong enough to support yourself and others.”

Women for Peace Day is described as a “transformative inside out approach to eradicating violence against women and creating self-love.” It allowed the organization to reach out to the public and promote this message by helping them develop the emotional and spiritual well-being to achieve this sense of inner strength, through the amplification of “the fundamental links between radical self-transformation and collective liberation.” This year’s event was co-sponsored by the non-profit organization Skills for Change, who is well renowned across the GTA for creating a program that provides learning and training opportunities for women and

refugees.

Ayo’dele hopes that the event achieved the notion that positive social change can be implemented just by remaining strong and true to the personal sense of self. She says that “there needs to be a shift in society because we often forget our power as women in favor for a patriarchal role. We need to stand in truth of our power because we can implement change in the community, and the black community in particular.”

Sacred Women’s International hopes to prove to women that they do not need to change who they are to be leaders of social change because the power to do so is inherently within and events such as Women for Peace Day pushes towards this self-discovery.

Women for Peace Day ran until 3:30 PM and was open to all women and girls from all ages. For inquiries about this organization’s cause and future events, email them at info@sacredwomeninternational.com, visiting their website at www.sacredwomeninternational. com, or by tweeting Aina Nia Ayo’dele with the handle @SacredWomenI.

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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 9, 2016

First ever Black Diamond Ball is a night to remember Alyssa Mahadeo

alyssa@carib101.com

TC Reporter A classy, refined, brilliant display of talent.

The inaugural Black Diamond Ball took place at The Design Exchange in Toronto hosting some of the most prestigious talents from the Black Community. In celebration of Black History Month and recognizing the talents of the black community in Canada, this ball invited five hundred business leaders, entertainers and community members for an unforgettable night of music, dancing, lots of fun!

This formal VIP Event invited guests to show off their impeccable style at this cocktail reception, mixing and mingling with some big names from within the community. The Black Diamond Ball is a celebration of local talent, with Black art, fashion, food and music in a sophisticated setting profiling an integral part of Black History.

Hosted by ArtXperiential Projects curator Shawn Cuffie, in collaboration with TD Bank as a part of their Black History Month Series the Black Diamond Ball is about recognizing the contributions of Black Canadians, developing and embracing the diversity in Canada through an artistic and cultural showcase of Black History. The Black Xpo is an all-day event offering experiential arts programs for local high school students; followed by an evening gala. A unique mixture of networking, socializing and entertainment, the Black Xpo gives new meaning to the caliber of events hosted by the Afro-Caribbean Community.

ArtXperiential is a not-for-profit arts organization on a mission to support and recognize emerging and established artists, encouraging discussions and experimentation through workshops, events and exhibition opportunities. The ArtXperiential Projects create opportunities for artists and performers to promote their work in avenues that they commonly may not have access to.

ArtXperiential spotlights the importance of originality across every creative discipline, celebrating diversity and cultivating opportunities that are inclusive of all diversity groups.

TD Bank has been an active part in helping to promote the celebrations of Black ancestry and their legacy. Since 2008 TD has contributed to the organization of a series of annual events with Canadian and international talent with new events every year to inspire Black Canadian youth entrepreneurs and artists. The sense of pride they receive in hosting these events is empowering and

helps to engage more people in building their own legacies.

Throughout the night, guests were treated to cocktails and appetizers served

by The Art of Catering and entertained with highly anticipated performances by R&B/ Soul Singer Jully Black, Maestro Fresh Wes, Ray Robinson, Gary Beals, Carlos Morgan and two-time Grammy nominee Andra Day. The audience was captivated by the rhythmic performances of dance, instrumentals and the beautifully designed fashion pieces worn by models in every ethnicity. This spectacular showcase of the arts reaffirms the voice of the Black community growing louder and louder every year, making their presence known here in Toronto, demanding attention for their hard work and dedication, educating the city on their heritage and culture. For more information visit artxperiential.com.

Remembering Davey Rochester Emily Singh

emily@carib101.com

TC Reporter It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of a devoted father, partner, son and friend, Davey Rochester. Words simply do not do Davey justice; his actions and larger than life personality spoke for itself. At the age of just thirty, Davey Rochester lost his battle to a rare cancer by the name of Adult T-Cell Leukemia Lymphoma.

Following his diagnosis in October

2015, his partner Krista Gear has been by his side providing him with endless love, support and encouragement. As his condition worsened it was determined that he would need a stem cell transplant to save his life.

Davey’s greatest match would come from someone who was of Caribbean background but the sad truth is that only .02% of Caribbean donors are on the global registry.

On March 3rd 2016 Davey passed away but not without a fight. For the past four months he fought hard to beat this illness. His unwavering positivity and strength was what kept him fighting until the end.

Lainie Goldstein, a close friend of Davey and Krista has been a tremendous supporter throughout this battle. Through her efforts on gofundme she was able to raise over five thousand dollars to date to help cover the costs of Davey’s final farewell. In addition she had created a page on Facebook to en-

courage the community to help find Davey a match. That page now serves as a memorial to Davey where friends and loved ones have been sharing stories and pictures to honor and celebrate the amazing individual Davey was.

Davey was born and raised in Jamaica and immigrated to Canada to pursue civil engineering at Seneca College. During his studies he met his partner Krista Gear and the two quickly became a united family.

Along with Krista’s two beautiful daughters the pair had two more little girls together.

Davey was an exceptional father to his children and he is often photographed holding his daughters with the biggest, brightest smile on his face.

A swabbing event was set to take place on March 18th at the Jamaican Canadian Society located at 995 Arrow Road, Toronto. This event is still happening and

is now being done in honor of Davey. The community needs to come out and ensure that others lives are not lost to this illness.

Davey leaves behind his mother Hyacinth, his partner Krista and his four beautiful daughters as well as many extended family and friends. As we grieve the loss of Davey we must keep his beautiful legacy alive and ensure that others do not face a battle like Davey’s. The Caribbean community is being urged to get out, get tested and get on the registry. On behalf of the entire Toronto Caribbean Newspaper family we would like to express our deepest condolences to Krista, the children and Davey’s friends and family during this difficult and trying time. Anyone who is interested in contributing to the final farewell of Davey Rochester can visit www. gofundme.com/daveysfund

“C “Canada d was b built il b by citizen ii iimmigrants, i people l who h come h here permanently l with i h their h i ffamilies ili to b become Canadians.”

- Hon. John McCallum, MP Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

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Bombarded by bills? Digicel has your back Miguel Mabilangan miguel@carib101.com

TC Reporter Do you ever just wish that you could get help with all the bills you have to pay? Communications company, Digicel could be the answer you need because they are offering “Bills on Us”- a promotional contest where they select customers and pay their bills for a full year.

The contest, which is running from January 25th to March 20th, will choose two winners each week from customers around Canada, USA and UK who add $15 or more through Top-up accounts or by setting up an interna-

tional long distance plan all around the Caribbean.

The only means of eligibility for the contest is simply setting up the international long distance plans or the top up accounts, which is prepaid credit that can be used for calls, text messages, plan activation and more.

The lucky winners will have their bills covered by Digicel, whether it be their credit, electrical or cable bills, valued at up to $3000 for the sender.

Declan Cassidy, CEO of Digicel Diaspora says that “we understand how tight things can be financially after the holidays when bills start piling up, so we are very happy to be in a position where we can offer some relief to our customers in the diaspora along with their families back home.” Digicel’s contest aims to provide practical prizes to ensure that they are doing their part to help customers and their families.

After speaking with Kofi Hodge, one winner of the contest, it is evident how beneficial it is to have such promotions such as ‘Bills

for Us.’ Through his winnings, Kofi now has help with payments going towards his daughter’s education. He says “I wanted them to pay for my daughter’s tuition costs. Digicel gave me the money to cover the school fees.”

Being a winner came as a surprise for Kofi as he was not aware that he won the contest until a friend he was sending top-ups to back home informed him that he was a recipient of Digicel’s prize. “I actually didn’t know I won the contest. My friend called and told me that I won.” Kofi has been sending money through Digicel to family and friends back in his home country of Guyana.

The ability of Digicel to provide such financial aid reflects upon their customer care and generosity as a company. For a chance to be a lucky winner like Kofi Hodge, send a top up back home in the Caribbean either through Digiceltopup.com or visiting a Digicel branded store near you, or by downloading the Digicel Top-Up app available through the App Store and Google Play.

Upcoming networking social gives Immigrants a helping hand Sara Miller

sara@carib101.com

TC Reporter As an immigrant, internationally educated professional or international student, moving to a new country can be an exciting but frightening experience. As a person in a foreign land, newcomers to Canada face several difficult challenges integrating into Canadian society, whether it is navigating a new city, learning a new language or securing employment to support themselves or their families.

Though there are plenty of available programs that can make the transition easier, many immigrants are left without any idea where to even begin to look for help. Fortunately, the creators behind New to Canada Inc. and The Altitude Club are lending a helpful hand.

On Thursday March 24, 2016, The Altitude Club will be holding the Networking Social for Newcomers, a way to help provide newcomers with the opportunity to network, socialize and connect with other professionals in their fields of study. The event will also provide attendees with information about helpful programs, job leads and career development.

The event will be at the West 50 Martini Lounge from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM and located at 50 Burnhamthorpe Road West, in Mississauga, Ontario.

The Networking Social for Newcomers is in partnership with New to Canada Inc. Located in Mississauga, New to Canada Inc. publishes a variety of online publications that provide useful information for new immigrants to connect to health, employment, housing and education services before or after they arrive to Canada. Established in 2015, The Altitude Club holds monthly sessions to provide networking events for professionals, international students and immigrants that are new to Canada. At these schedule events, attendees have the chance to connect and create their own professional and social networks.

Founder and event coordinator,

Angela Spencer, knows all too well about the struggles immigrants face when coming to a new country. Originally from Jamaica, Spencer immigrated to Canada when she was younger and at the time, found that there were no resources available to help aid newcomers settle into the country. Feeling alone and isolated, Spencer realized she needed to create a resource that would help other newcomers who experienced the same feelings as her.

Soon after, New to Canada Inc. was founded.

This event is not only useful to network with other Canadian professionals, but to also connect and develop friendships with one another.

“A lot of times when immigrants come up to Canada, it doesn’t matter where we are coming from, we’re isolated,” Spencer said.

“This is a good opportunity to meet others and exchange contact information. We want everybody to leave the event feeling a sense of belonging and unity. A sense that they are not alone and there are resources out there that they can connect to”.

New to Canada also offers free job postings at www.newtocanadajobs.com.

Caribbean Culture and Contributions Showcase draws crowd Emily Singh

emily@carib101.com

TC Reporter The Caribbean community here in Toronto is nothing short of eclectic, vibrant and most importantly united! On Saturday February 28, 2016 the Caribbean Women’s Society hosted a Caribbean Culture & Contributions Showcase. DJ Soca Sweetness had everyone entertained as they visited the various vendors inside Centennial Recreation Centre. Hosted by the beautiful and talented Karen Carrington the showcase was designed with the vision of empowering and promoting the Caribbean queens in our community.

As a community it is so very important to pass

down our rich culture and history to the next generation, that is the youth. Not only were the children able to experience just a taste of what the Caribbean has to offer they were also able to have some fun! There was a craft table set up as well as face painting booth that was a hit.

Music is one of the many aspects that sets the Caribbean apart from any other region of the world. World renowned Bajan guitarist and recording artist, Roger Gibbs gave an amazing performance that had everyone clapping their hands in time with the music.

“I am always interested in supporting grassroot efforts and community efforts. Just hearing about the organization and its goals and the things it is trying to do I though it was important that I come and support it.” Says Rogers Gibbs. “Music is very important to the Caribbean community. Music is part of your life, it isn’t separated from your life, it is your life. It also serves as a bond in our spirits to get us through a lot of difficult times. Music has been an important part of our people being

able to express their sense of power.”

Speaking of power, there is something to be said about the power of a united community.

The Caribbean Women’s Society’s main goal is to “connect and empower Caribbean women”, and they do so through offering workshops, seminars, forums and support groups.

In order to keep the culture alive and celebrate the accomplishments of Caribbean women it is vital to educate the community as a whole.

Representatives from Scarberian Boxing were also present to give an exciting demonstration.

Boxing is a way to encourage self-discipline and boost self- esteem especially amongst the youth of the community. It is not only a way to stay physically fit but also builds on emotional and mental strength. It is a way to channel ones energy in a positive manner while fostering social growth amongst other young people with the same passion.

The Caribbean Women’s Society is continually striving to build the community and promote Caribbean culture here in Canada.

PAGE 11

PAGE 12

jamaica news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Tight Government - Holness commits to frugal administration, warns corruption wonʼt be tolerated JAMAICA -- Prime Minister Andrew Holness Monday recommitted his newly installed Government to a policy of efficiency and frugality in public administration following the swearing in of his 18-member Cabinet and warned them that corruption will not be tolerated.

Speaking shortly after Governor General Sir Patrick Allen had sworn in the new Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) executive, Holness reminded the packed ballroom at King’s House that his Government’s focus, direction and priority are to “grow the economy, create jobs, and reduce public debt to sustainable levels”.

He boasted that by appointing a Cabinet below the provocating figure of 20, despite the many challenges it is faced with, was as a signal of the frugality he hopes to maintain.

He said that the size of the Cabinet, and the tasks assigned the members, was tangible evidence that the JLP was not only interested in changing Government, but also changing how Government works.

“This is the first signal, indeed test, that we intend to be efficient and frugal in Government,” he stated.

Holness formed a trio from the old guard – Daryl Vaz, Derrick Smith, and Dr Horace Chang – as ministers without portfolio to work with him, under the umbrella of the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM). The newly created Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, which he announced during his election campaign, will tackle the two areas he had found most wanting in the previous Government – lack of growth and jobs.

The four ministers, the Jamaica Observer was told, will work “to replace the red tape with a red carpet” in encouraging new investments, as well as deal with perennial issues affecting infrastructural works, water and housing.

Holness also created a super Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Agriculture, with veteran MP Karl Samuda at the helm, supported by former agriculture spokesman JC Hutchinson as minister without portfolio.

Another super ministry is that of Finance and Planning which, as expected, will be led by Audley Shaw, who served as finance minister from 2007 to 2011 when the JLP formed the Government. He will be supported by two junior ministers – MPs Fayval Williams and Rudyard Spencer – who are expected to

focus on fiscal policy and the public service, respectively.

Holness drafted Jamaica College Principal Ruel Reid to help fulfill his dream of pulling detached youths back into formal society, through increased access and improved education.

The ministry, under Reid’s guidance, is expected to renew youthful confidence in the country’s ability to provide access to education and training to prepare young people for the opportunities it hopes increased investments and growth will produce in the next few years.

Reid, who was Holness’s education advisor between 2007 and 2011, will handle the education, youth and information portfolios, with help from Floyd Green, former president of the party’s young professionals arm, Generation 2000 (G2K).

The appointment of Robert Montague as minister of national security, instead of Derrick Smith, was somewhat a surprise, as well.

He will be joined at that ministry by another surprise inclusion, that of Pearnel Charles Jnr, a former clerk of the courts and Crown counsel, and son of former Labour Minister Pearnel Charles.

Dr Andrew Wheatley will move into Phillip Paulwell’s former office at the PCJ Building in New Kingston as minister of energy, science and technology; Desmond McKenzie has been appointed to continue pursuing his area of greatest competence, local government; Mike Henry has been named minister of transport and mining; Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange returns in charge of the social issues portfolios of sports, entertainment, culture and gender affairs; Edmund Bartlett, despite shadowing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade for the past two years, will return to his favourite portfolio, tourism; Dr Christopher Tufton returns to the House of Representatives and the Cabinet in charge of the problematic Ministry of Health; and Delroy Chuck returns to Justice.

Former Resident Magistrate Marlene Malahoo Forte comes in as attorney general; Shahine Robinson will handle labour and social security; and Kamina Johnson Smith, daughter of former JLP minister and High Commissioner to London, Anthony Johnson, will handle the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

- Jamaica Observer

Few sights of green as new Government ministers take oath JAMAICA -- Very few who attended Monday’s swearing-in ceremony for the new Government ministers were seen wearing green, but the mood was still one of Jamaica Labour Party celebration as family, friends and wellwishers gathered to witness the revelation of the new Cabinet at King’s House in St Andrew.

The available seats in the King’s House ballroom were quickly filled, with attendees limiting even the available standing room as they crammed themselves into whatever standing space they could find. Nonetheless, this did not dampen the spirit of those who came out to witness the 17 ministers, four State ministers and the attorney general being sworn in — they all held their ground, even if that meant standing for the duration of the almost two-hour ceremony.

Scheduled for a 2:00 pm start, the ceremony got under way at about 2:05 pm when Governor General Sir Patrick Allen and Lady Allen joined the gathering.

A process that started with the 17th General Election on February 25, ministers of the new Government were now ready to take up the mantle and accept their various responsibilities. From there on it was a business-like atmosphere as each minister went forward to be sworn in by the governor general. Only

camera flashes and cheers interrupted the process, which saw ministers taking their oath of office, signing instruments of appointment, smiling for pictures, then returning to their respective seats.

Interestingly, some of the ministers were apparent favourites as they received louder and longer applause than others, or the cheers could also have meant that they had a larger group of supporters in tow. Whatever the reason, heading that list was Minister of State in the Education, Youth and Information Ministry Floyd Green. His applause was closely rivalled by that which went up for Attorney General Marlene Malahoo Forte.

Obviously a proud moment for all, it was seemingly moreso for Pearnel Charles Sr, who watched as his son, Pearnel Charles Jr, being sworn in as senator then State minister in the Ministry of National Security. What a sight it was to see the Charles clan celebrate at the end of the ceremony!

Formalities out the window, and all the T’s crossed and I’s dotted, the new Government ministers gathered on the steps of King’s House, every face wearing a broad smile, for the official photo.

- Jamaica Observer

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

guyana news

New virus still unidentified - as Zika continues to take its toll GUYANA -- As the Zika virus becomes more bothersome to Guyana’s populace and other parts of the world, another mosquito-borne virus which was recently discovered is yet to be identified by the Ministry of Public Health.This was confirmed by the Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton during an interview with the Guyana Chronicle. Minister Norton revealed that the ministry was suspicious of a new virus coming into play and hoped that samples sent to the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) could give some confirmation.

Dr. Norton told members of the media on Friday that a large number of doctors had related varying symptoms that did not correspond with those of the Zika virus. However he reiterated that they would only be able to identify or pronounce with some amount of certainty after laboratory tests were done.

But as that process was ongoing, the perpetual Zika virus continued to be inconvenient. Thus far, there were five confirmed cases and those patients had been quarantined.

While there has been no indication that there has been a widespread transmission of

the virus in Guyana, Dr. Norton said there are a number of persons who might have the virus, as they display signs and symptoms that are closely associated with it.

However, since Guyana lacks trained personnel in its medical institutions to detect the virus, the suspected cases are not promptly detected. Government has since identified someone who would be sent to the CARPHA to be trained in identifying the Zika virus.

New Transmission Meanwhile, the Public Health Minister confirmed that there are suspicions of the Zika virus being transmitted by other mosquitoes aside from just the primary transmitter, which is the Aedes Aegypti.

According to a Reuters report, “scientists in Brazil announced on Wednesday that they were able to infect another species, Culex quinquefasciatus, with the virus in a laboratory, raising concerns that Zika could be carried by a species more prevalent than Aedes aegypti. They said much more research was needed to learn whether the Culex mosquitoes can transmit Zika

infections.”

The report also indicated that in Brazil, Culex quinquefasciatus was 20 times more common than Aedes aegypti, researchers said. Apart from being transmitted by a different mosquito, a BBC report noted that research revealed that the Zika virus kills the type of tissue found in the developing brain. It was able to destroy or disrupt the growth of neural progenitor cells, which build the brain and nervous system, in lab tests, the report stated.

The discovery, published in the journal Cell Stem Cell, adds weight to claims that Zika is causing brain abnormalities in babies. However, the US researchers caution this is not yet the conclusive link.

There have been more than 4,800 confirmed and suspected cases of babies born with small brains – microcephaly – in Brazil. It is widely thought that the Zika outbreak was to blame, but that has not been scientifically confirmed.

- Guyana Chronicle

Government mulls transferring some Camp St inmates to Mazaruni GUYANA -- Government is considering transferring some of the inmates at the crowded Camp Street Prison to the Mazaruni facility, Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan has said.On Sunday, Ramjattan accompanied President David Granger and Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, to the Mazaruni Prison on a fact-finding mission, as described by the Ministry of the Presidency.

Minister Ramjattan told the Guyana Chronicle that the visit was very useful for him personally, as Public Security Minister, as it provided him with a personal and first-hand experience of what obtains at the location.

Describing the visit as a learning experience, Ramjattan said he was provided with the opportunity to see what arrangements are needed at Mazaruni. He explained that arrangements would indeed be made to transfer some of the prisoners from Camp Street to the Mazaruni Prison, and that decision also prompted the meeting with the officials of the Mazaruni Prison.

It was during that meeting that the ranks raised some concerns, such as increased meal allowances, proper housing accommodation for them and their families, risk allowances, and the need for more officers at the facility should the transfers take effect, Ramjattan explained.

The minister said that with those issues aside, the officers at the location did indicate that everything else at the location was normal. He admitted with approach, there would mitt mi tted ed tthat, hat, ha t, w ithh th it thee ne new w ap appr proa oach ch,, th ther eree wo woul uldd have to be even more revenue allocation for the

prisons system, to cater for these additional considerations; and while it would be a challenge initially, it would have to be done.

President Granger had said that the visit formed part of a long-term strategic plan to ensure that the Guyana Prison Service fulfills its mandate. “Our presence here is not just a gut reaction,” the President said as he alluded to the worst prison riot in the history of Guyana, which unfolded last week and resulted in the deaths of 17 inmates at the Georgetown Prison.

He added: “It is a plan to ensure that there is a long-term strategy. We are ensuring that the Guyana Prison Service fulfills its mandate.

We have to build a system in which persons who enter this service as inmates would have the best opportunities for rehabilitation, and those who are incorrigible…would be prevented from bringing harm to society.”

During their tour of the Mazaruni Prison, the President and his team not only assessed the living conditions of the prisoners and the prison officers, but interacted with both parties.

Assistant Superintendent of Prisons and Officer-in-Charge of the Mazaruni Penal Settlement, Alexander Hopkinson, in a brief statement, disclosed that a total of 289 prisoners are confined at the location, with 24 of them being high-profile prisoners. He said a part of their routine includes farming, and he pointed out that four acres of land currently under cultivation.

Callaloo, aree cu ar curr rren entl tlyy un unde derr cu cult ltiv ivat atio ion. n. C alla al lalo loo, o, tthyme, hyme hy me,, ppumpkin pu mp pkin and gr gground ound pprovisions rovisions are amongg the

foods being planted by the prisoners.

Some of the inmates are also engaged in joinery, he said. This was evident during the visit, as three of them were completing bed frames at the time. Though understaffed, he said, the prison officers have managed to maintain order. He pointed out that since the 1997 prison riot, there has been no other riot. However prisoners would have, in the past, escaped, but they were all subsequently captured. The staffing population is currently below its quota of 95. There are 54 persons on staff, but the Officer-in-Charge is hopeful that the staff population could be increased to a maximum of 200. But this move, he said, would require additional living quarters for the prison officers.

It was also pointed out that sections of the prison require renovation, in addition to the living quarters of officers. However, five living quarters are expected to undergo rehabilitation this year. In addition to the concerns raised by Superintendent Hopkinson, other officers raised a number of administrative issues regarding access to land, accommodation, and gratuity, among other things. They were advised to formally write the Officer-in-Charge on these issues, and he, in turn, would raise their concerns at the level of the Prison Service Commission and Public Security Ministry.

- Guyana Chronicle

Sexual harassment of women must be tackled – Women lawyers GUYANA -- In keeping with the theme for this year, ‘Gender Equality by 2030’, the Guyana Association of Women Lawyers is encouraging Guyanese women to “keep their eye on the prize, and work together with all other women in the world to achieve this goal.”Noting that equality is not an elusive dream, the association encouraged women in a message to mark International Women’s Day “that we must insist that gender equality be observed in every facet of our lives.”

The body said it is still a ‘man’s world’, “even though we have made great strides in Guyana in having the law recognise our rights with respect to marriage, maintenance, division of property, and medical termination. There is still, regrettably, a disconnect in achieving equal pay for work of equal value in all areas of employment.”

The women lawyers said there is still discrimination in the workplaces, as evidenced by the discriminatory rules applied to female constabulary members and pregnancy, and the nurses at the Linden Hospital who were denied maternity leave privileges as the law allows.

And sexual harassment is a cause for great concern, and needs to be addressed frontally by legislation and workplace protocols.

Importantly, the association noted, housework is still not acknowledged by “all of us, especially our menfolk, as being work. Hence a woman who is a mother and wife or caregiver in the home is still regarded as a ‘housewife’ or ‘homemaker’, and not worthy of mutual respect; while women who work outside of the home are still regarded as working housewives. Thus, after a full day’s work, most, if not all women, (regardless of status), meet more than their fair share of chores, which ought to in fact be shared by all in the home, moreso because it is felt that the woman in the house will get it done regardless.”

According to the group, for some women, help with one major chore can go a far way to easing their never-ending burdens. “As recorded in an article by Melinda Gates about her live-in experience in Tanzania with a rural family, the assistance by the village menfolk with the fetching of water for two miles twice a day gave their wives breathing space to adequately nurse and care for the children, among other chores.” This, the association said, came about only after the wife of the family, Ms. Gates, who was staying with and other women in the village, threatened to strike because of the lack of support with this very important chore.

In this vein, it is noted that a recognition of the need for such assistance will allow women greater scope to contribute to their financial independence as they seek employment, establish businesses and strive to leadership positions in all spheres of activities including politics. “Thus, we call on all to ensure that women’s caring work is acknowledged and counted as being essential to the well-being of our families and communities and the development of our country.”

The GAWL said it is conscious of the fact that the cynics, mostly male, will scoff at their representations, and no doubt concur with the recent headline of a leading newspaper that we are “quarreling”, when in fact we are standing up for justice and equality. “We must, as women, speak up and represent ourselves, as no one else will do it for us. Remember, there is no such thing as men’s work and women’s work. We must insist on mutual respect as there are some things we each do better naturally, but it does not bar either gender from supporting each other for the betterment of ourselves individually, our families and the society as a whole. Best wishes for a proactive and productive International Women’s Day!” - Guyana Chronicle

PAGE 13

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

trinidad news

Abu Bakr pleads not guilty to assault charges TRINIDAD -- Youth leader of the Jamaat Al Muslimeen, Fuad Abu Bakr, has pleaded not guilty to two charges stemming from an incident at the Belmont Police Station last year.

Appearing before Magistrate Carl Quamina in the Port-of-Spain Third Magistrates Court Monday, Abu Bakr who is himself an attorney, was represented by Alexia Romero.

Prior to reading the charges, Quamina was informed by Abu Bakr he had only received the summonses last week.

It is alleged that on July 23, 2015 at the Belmont Police Station Abu Bakr conducted an act of disorderly behaviour and also assaulted WPC Cindy Ann Chase by beating.

Before entering his plea in relation to the second charge, Abu Bakr began: “I don’t understand how I could assault an officer.”

He was later interrupted by Quamina who instructed him to enter a plea.

Requesting an expedited trial, Romero also pressed for the disclosure of all evidential material including audio visual and CCTV footage, station diary extracts and a copy of the summary of evidence.

She was also informed that approximately six or seven prosecution witnesses would be called to testify in the matter.

Ordering Romero to submit her request for audio visual and CCTV footage in writing, Quamina later adjourned the matter to May 10 for disclosure and July 26 for trial.

Background The allegations for which Abu Bakr appeared Monday stemmed from an incident at the Belmont Police Station in the early morning of July 24, 2015.

Abu Bakr, along with a group of

members of the Jamaat Al Muslimeen, had visited two police stations over the course of six hours to stand in solidarity with persons who had been detained during police inquiries.

At the Belmont Police Station, Abu Bakr had gone to support Stacy Griffith who is the wife of murder accused Rajaee Ali, who was being detained at the station, allegedly without being told why.

Abu Bakr, who is the leader of the New National Vision (NNV) political party, was among Jamaat Al Muslimeen members who got into a confrontation with police officers at the Belmont Station.

Abu Bakr subsequently filed a report with the Commissioner of Police detailing his version of the events during which he claimed he was choked and assaulted in the confrontation.

- Trinidad Guardian

Man killed after 2 failed attempts TRINIDAD -- After two failed attempts at his life, gunmen from his Pitman Lane, Gonzales, neighbourhood Monday pounced on 21-year-old Kyle Williams and fatally shot him.

Last December, gunmen shot him in the mouth leaving him with bullet fragments in his jaw. In September last year, Williams was shot in the back after a “strange jeep” was seen in the area.

Speaking with the media Monday, Williams’ aunt, Sherry Ann Trotman, said she was forced to raise him after his parents died.

She added that it had been hard for her raising her sisters children along with her five. On arrival at the crime scene Monday Trotman disregarded the caution tape and attempted to make her way home but was stopped by police officers.

After being consoled by neighbours Trotman was allowed to leave the cordoned off area. She lamented that the killing of her nephew was on the shoulders of the police who after numerous reports failed to act.

“I don’t want to hear allyuh, allyuh know what going on and not doing nothing,” Trotman cried.

Also speaking with the media was

Williams’ sister, Andrea, who said there was an ongoing war in the area between men who were once schoolmates.

She added her brother had two matters pending, one for shooting and another for possession of cocaine, and with the war in the area he was forced to remain indoors or just outside his home.

“This is not the first time or the second time, this has been going on too long. It is overbearing. The police know everything that is going on and they are not doing anything about it.

“We are women and we can’t even walk the road. I have to pay a driver for my children to go to school, which is right down the road. You could tell me that is right? The police have to do something about it because everyone need justice,” Andrea said.

She said the people responsible for the war were not from the area but were fuelling the war for reasons unknown.

She recalled having to duck for cover in March last year after gunmen opened fire on her home. Since then she has been back and forth and after 6 pm no one ventures outside.

The ongoing war claimed the life of a schoolboy last year. Yakini Charles, 12,

was shot and killed on his way home from school on September 15.

According to police reports, Charles, a Form One Tranquility Government Secondary School student, was heading back to his home at Pitman Lane, Gonzales, around 8.30 am when he was shot in the back along St Andrew Lane, Gonzales.

Charles ran along Olton Road after being shot but collapsed and was taken to the Port-of-Spain General Hospital by a truck driver who saw him lying on the roadway.

Charles died while being treated.

Williams too died at hospital and is believed to have been a witness to a murder that happened in the area about two years ago. Police suspect that was the motive behind the attempts on his life, culminating Monday morning.

According to police reports around 9.30 am Monday residents heard gunshots and later found him bleeding at the side of the road.

Williams, who was released on bail a few months ago, was taken to the Port-ofSpain General Hospital where he died.

- Trinidad Guardian

$20,000 bail for boy, 11 TRINIDAD -- The 11-year-old primary school student who was charged with trafficking marijuana last Friday was granted $20,000 bail when he appeared before Arima magistrate Indar Jagroo Monday. He pleaded not guilty.

The boy, a fifth standard student, was held at his school around 3 pm after a fellow classmate allegedly told security on

duty the child had the 23 grams of marijuana and was showing it off. The child was also held with a lighter and two cigarettes. Lawmen said the student’s house was searched but nothing was found on the premises. Officers said the boy was taken into custody at the Arouca Police Station where he spent the weekend before his court appearance Monday.

The matter was adjourned to May 10 after it was learnt he was preparing for the Secondary Entrance Assessment. The child was placed in the custody of his father after the court heard he was in his mother’s care when the alleged incident happened. The magistrate also ordered that a probation officers report be submitted for the next hearing.

- Trinidad Guardian

Suspect in clerkʼs cutlass attack held TRINIDAD -- Police have detained a man for questioning in connection with the brutal cutlass attack on Jennifer Rampersad, who remains warded at the San Fernando General Hospital.

Her right hand was severed, as were two fingers on her left hand during the attack at her home at Sancho Road, New Grant, on Saturday morning.

The 35-year-old accounts clerk, who also suffered a fractured skull, has been

moved from the Intensive Care Unit to a medical ward. However, she has not been able to help the police identify her attacker as yet due to her condition.

Rampersad, who lived with her mother and nephew, was attacked around 1.40 am.

Her mother, Irene Soodeen, was jolted out of her sleep by her daughter’s scream and found her covered in blood in the corridor of the home. Neighbours called the police af-

ter hearing the mother’s cries for help.

Police believe the attacker had a key to the house since there were no signs of forced entry. The family has since moved out of the house and changed the doors’ locks.

Up to late Monday the man was still in police custody.

Ag Sgt Ramlogan is continuing investigations.

- Trinidad Guardian

PAGE 15

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

ffeature eature

PAGE P AGE 17

Enjoy a little slice of Paradise at Lynnʼs Buccoo Reef!

If you’ve ever had the chance to visit Lynn’s Buccoo Reef Restaurant, you’ll know that this isn’t your typical West Indian establishment.

Located at 284 Orenda Road, this charming little spot is it’s very own little tropical paradise. Painted in splashes of the vibrant colors of the reef, the azure blue of the ocean calls to you while the red provides a warmth reminiscent of the hot sun back home on the island of Trinidad.

Run by dynamic duo, Lynn Ali and her daughter-in-law Roxanne Tactay-Ali it was a dream long in the making. Hailing from Trinidad, as the oldest in a family of six Lynn was accustomed to cooking, preparing dinner for the family at home. She would make lunches and dinner for the family, enjoying the process and the opportunity to experiment in the kitchen. After graduating from school she went on to teach primary school for only a few short months and had further plans to go on to study nursing in England, when one of her uncles suggested they migrate to Canada instead. Lynn came to Canada in 1974, where she attended Humber College to update her credentials, while holding her passion for cooking at bay for the time being.

Lynn had lots of practice at home cooking all through her formative years, until she later met her husband, got married and had her only child, her son Ken. After buying their first house she decided to start her own catering company from the comfort of her own home. She would supply West Indian at the time and it gave her the opportunity to practice her skills. Unfortunately having to do everything herself was starting to become an arduous task. Without help it was

becoming too much work for her to handle on her own. Lynn made the decision to quit her catering and ventured back out into the workforce gaining employment in the restaurant industry from roti shops in the area and learning how these businesses were operated. After a while working for someone else was proving difficult for Lynn, her employers all had their own ways of operating their business and preparing their food and she decided that she had enough.

At the time her son Ken decided he was getting married to his fiancé Roxanne.

Roxanne and Lynn had bonded over cooking. They had enjoyed many days in the kitchen sharing tips and tricks to making a variety of West Indian dishes both enjoying spending time together, sharing in the same interest and passion. With Roxanne being from a Filipino background and Lynn from Trinidadian heritage, they each brought something unique to the table, Lynn sharing with her soon to be daughter-in-law Roxanne, that this was something she had always dreamed about putting together.

Roxanne’s background was in Advertising Marketing, where she had been working for five years. While on maternity leave she decided to spend some time upgrading her advertising qualifications. One of her courses assigned a project asking the question ‘If you were an entrepreneur what would you want to do?’ She remembered from many conversations with her motherin-law the idea of opening their own restaurant, which seemed like something more of a pipe dream. Upon completing her project she had created the foundation of the restaurant without realizing it.

Roxanne ventured back out into the

field once her maternity leave was over and soon realized that her heart was no longer in it anymore. She could no longer see herself working in the corporate world and taking that one course had inspired her to see the possibilities of being an entrepreneur from a fresh new perspective. Roxanne left her job, reinforced her partnership with her motherin-law Lynn and Buccoo Reef Restaurant was born.

After acquiring the space, and tackling three months of renovations Buccoo Reef Restaurant officially opened for business on September 11th, 2015. Lynn’s Buccoo Reef offers a wide variety of authentic Trinidadian dishes. They strive to serve their guests fresh and flavorful dishes, using only the best spices and quality halal meats. All of the recipes are from Lynn’s creative mind, incorporating memories of her mother and grandmother’s cooking with tips she picked up over the years and more than a few of her own unique and delicious concoctions.

Their menu features a mix of Indian, Spanish and Creole inspired recipes with Buccoo Reef specials that include creatively named dishes like Jump Up and Whine Shrimp, Carnival Fried Chicken with Chow Mein, Maracas Bake and Shark, Surf and Turf and Soup for D’Soul. Every meal comes with a side of fresh salad, presented in the most colourful way possible, including West Indian favorites like stew chicken, curry goat, fish, shrimp, duck, chicken, aloo and anything else your heart desires.

With Lynn’s love and passion for experimenting with flavors and Roxanne’s out of the box thinking, everyday they think of a cool new idea that they can implement, always changing around the menu, putting

out unconventional recipes and most of all listening to the needs of the customers, paying attention to what they would like to eat when they come to the restaurant for lunch or dinner.

Their goal at Bucco Reef is to create an environment where the community can enjoy a little taste of Trinidad and the Caribbean here in Brampton. Their vibrant color scheme and incorporations of Trinidadian culture, heritage and art it what makes their restaurant a home away from home. As a family of foodies they enjoy experimenting with new and exciting flavors to create a more modern take on West Indian cooking.

In the West Indian community it’s unconventional to see a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law work so close together in a business environment. Together they love owning and operating their own restaurant, basking in the creative freedom, following their dreams and staying positive through it all. Their unique relationship is not without challenges, but in the end they have the same goals in mind and wish to see their restaurant thrive. At Buccoo Reef the aim is to be the go to place in the community, a tropical escape, offering personable customer service, fresh and delicious food, making connections in the community and encouraging their competition to step up the game when it comes to West Indian run businesses.

Come in and try Lynn’s signature dishes - Curry duck, Stew Chicken with Macaroni Pie and Stew Salmon! Every meal comes with FREE DOUBLES!!!

Written by Alyssa Mahadeo Toronto Caribbean Reporter

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PAGE 20

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Raskality refreshes sound with Sizzla sample Aba Luke

aba@carib101.com

Entertainment While most Caribbean entertainers tell reporters and by extension, the masses, that their musical ambitions are solely based on gaining international recognition, there’s one rising star who says he feels his mission is less self-serving.

Set to unleash a seven-track EP entitled, ‘Alive and Well’ in the coming weeks, T&T artiste, Raskality says his purpose,

when it comes to music, runs deeper.

A track collaborated on by Raskality and fellow Trinidad and Tobago acts, Jamelody and Fadda Moses has been released today. It’s called, DNK (Dem Never Know). Raskality says he wants his lyrics to be heard by people across the world but he feels that the power that’s held in each word expressed, must first be used as a tool to uplift and inspire people at home in the Caribbean.

“Artistes are influential people. We have a platform that many aren’t afforded. I believe in doing positive things with that platform,” he said.

The first single off his EP, “DNK (Dem Never Know), features a sample of the music of well known Jamaican reggae artiste, Sizzla Kolonji.

Raskality admits the move is something

Condolences pour in for Reggae sensation Luciano Aba Luke

aba@carib101.com

Entertainment His music speaks of peace, humility and love but on Saturday February 27, his lyrics certainly weren’t the focus of assailants who stole life from his 19 -year old son. Reggae sensation, Luciano, known for his countless hits, among them, ” It’s Me Again Jah,” “Oh Father I Love Thee,” and “Messenger,” is now mourning the loss of his son, Menelik who was stabbed to death during an altercation in Jamaica.

According to reports out of Jamaica, the artiste has made an appeal to the public for any information that can lead to the apprehension of those responsible for his son’s death. The teen was viciously stabbed by the culprits who are said to have fled in a vehicle after

carrying out the attack. Menelik died at hospital, after what his father said was a tremendous attempt by doctors, to save his life. The incident occurred at around 2:30pm in the vicinity of Parkington Plaza, Kingston 10.

Online, one person aptly stated, “The tragedy yielding from ignorance and stupidity, the disrespect of life, of human life. The endless devaluation of LIVITY. The youth are dead within their souls. Who can do these kinds of acts and then amongst other youth go off with loud voices and be so big as to boast of their wicketness and evilness. Their parents die as much as the parents of the child they have slaughtered without cause or regret! These acts are going on AROUND THE WORLD and the time is arriving within our lives where JAH may have to intercede to wipe this wicketness from the earth. My GREAT, heart wretching sorrow stands with Brother Luciano and his family. WE don’t know the why of this, we don’t know the cause of this. Pure wicketness right before our lives.” Condolences and comfort to Luciano and all related.

- EBuzzTT

quite unorthodox in the dancehall arena.

“The song is a fusion of hip-hop, reggae and dancehall. I called on my brothers, Jamelody and Fadda Moses because I felt they each had something unique to offer to this project,” he said, explaining that Jamelody’s smooth sound and his natural appeal with female music fans, made him the perfect candidate for the track. On the other hand, he said he chose Fadda Moses because of his strong dancehall undertone.

“In Trinidad and Tobago, in our music industry, we’re sometimes a bit timid to do different things- set a different precedence, you know? ...I want to be known and appreciated for doing things differently,” said Raskality. His most recent time in the spotlight was in 2015 when he collaborated with local rapper, Lil Saint on a track called, “The Re-Birth”. He acknowledges that the collaboration worked favorably for him and said he decided to work alongside DLL the producer of that track, to deliver something he feels will be embraced by all music appreciators across the world.

“The song was written collaboratively

by Jamelody, Fadda Moses and I. We

each wrote our lyrics for what we sang and in the end, I think what we’ve created is something you’d find people like DJ Khaled doing- fusing different energies, styles and flavours to create a blend that’s far superior to anything else,” said Raskality.

Talks are underway for the song’s distribution to mainstream global music markets, by VP Atlanta. Already, Raskality’s looking toward the release of the second single off the EP. “I plan on releasing that track in a month’s time,” he said, emphasizing again that each single on the EP will give fans of music, something completely unique to hold on to. “I hope what I’m doing here will encourage other artistes to go against the musical norms, push for a different sound and think about wider markets.

Music is an expression- an art, of each individual artiste’s vibe and feeling, what they stand for, so everyone doing the same thing is a bit redundant if you ask me. I’ve chosen to change up my game a bit and hopefully, people from all walks of life will understand it and enjoy it,” said the young idealist.

- EBuzzTT

Three Cheers for Destra!

Aba Luke

aba@carib101.com

Entertainment From Guyana where she rocked the hell out of a colorfully attractive fitted jumpsuit and some turquoise hair, to Bordeaux, France this weekend where she’s expected to show the French just how Soca gives you wings, Destra Garcia’s blazing a trail already, post carnival.

The soca queen performs in Bordeaux this weekend at an event called Karibean Bounce. Excitedly, the talented soca hit maker’s been documenting her trip, sharing bits and pieces of her

experience so far, with fans via social media. Prior to hitting France this weekend, Garcia performed in Guyana, on the heels of some of her industry counterparts, among them, Shal Marshal, Ricardo Drue and Barbados’ Peter Ram. A snippet of her performance posted to IG, shows a high energy Garcia working her magic and an even more energetic crowd, responding to her every word.

Destra’s been known to travel the world throughout the year. Her music and presence is tremendously appreciated in places like Jamaica and Belize.

During Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival, Destra performed at event in Venezuela’s carnival- something many wouldn’t have seen coming. Garcia proved that she could show her neighbors a hell of a time though, proving that her pull is as magnetic as ever.

- EBuzzTT

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Windies in Kolkata for official warm-ups INDIA -- West Indies arrived here early Monday from Dubai to begin their final preparations for the Twenty20 World Cup set to bowl off here today.

The 2012 champions spent the last two weeks in a preparation camp in United Arab Emirates where they also played four unofficial T20 warmup games – two against Zimbabwe in Sharjah and two versus English County Warwickshire in Dubai. They won all four fixtures.

West Indies were not expected to train today, especially coming off Sunday’s final game against Warwickshire. The Caribbean side play their two official warm-up matches at Eden Gardens here, taking on hosts and powerhouses India on Thursday and Australia on Sunday.

Media reports here said star all-rounder Dwayne Bravo was not with the team at the hotel Monday, having flown to New Delhi following his arrival from Dubai. However, a team official said the veteran T20 specialist would return in time for the Windies fixtures.

“He has some personal com-

mitments in New Delhi. He will return in time,” media reports quoted an unnamed team official as saying.

West Indies are also awaiting a replacement for opener Lendl Simmons, who was forced to opt out of the squad last week after failing to recover from a back injury. The Trinidadian played no part in the camp in UAE. In recent weeks, West Indies have been hit by a number of high profile withdrawals from the squad.

Kieron Pollard pulled out with injury, off-spinner Sunil Narine chose to complete the rehabilitation of his bowling action while left-handed batsman Darren Bravo opted to represent Trinidad and Tobago Red Force in the ongoing Regional four-day championship.

West Indies have been installed in Group A of the T20 World Cup and will play alongside the likes of South Africa, Sri Lanka and England. The winner of Group B in the qualifying tournament beginning Tuesday, will join West Indies in Group 1.

- Trinidad Guardian

Lewis earns WI call up TRINIDAD -- T&T’s Evin Lewis has been called up to the West Indies team for the World T20 tournament which gets underway today in India.

Lewis gets his maiden call up after a string of good performances in the Nagico Super50 and PCL tournament for the Red Force. He had scores of 74, 101, 87 and 104 against Jamaica while he also blasted 56 against the Leewards at the NCC last week. He replaces fellow Trinidadian Lendl Simmons who has been ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury.

Simmons, the 31-year-old right-handed top-order batsman will remain home to continue his rehabilitation, while left handed Lewis will fly out today. Lewis will he hoping to get to India in time for the second warm-up match against Australia.

West Indies will enter the World Cup second in the ICC rankings, with the hosts installed as the top-ranked.

In the latest rankings released Monday, India topped the tables with 127 points, nine clear of West Indies in second. South Africa lie third also on 118 points while New Zealand are fourth with 116 points. England, the 2009 champions, are fifth on 112 points with Australia sixth on 111 points.

Pakistan, who won the 2009 tourna-

ment staged in England, are seventh on 110 points while reigning champions Sri Lanka languish one point behind in eighth.

India’s place at the top was assured when they beat Bangladesh in the final of the Asia Cup in Mirpur on Sunday. The ongoing three-match series between South Africa and Australia is currently tied at 1-1 but the decisive third game tomorrow in Johannesburg will have no impact on India’s ranking.

West Indies briefly led the T20 rankings in mid-January without lifting a hand after Sri Lanka lost their series 2-0 to New Zealand. The Caribbean side can make huge strides in the rankings, depending on their performance in the upcoming World Cup. Installed in Group 1, they open their preliminary campaign against England on March 16 in Mumbai, clash with Sri Lanka four days later in Bangalore before taking on South Africa in March 25 in Nagpur.

The 2012 champions close out against a yet-to-be determined qualifier from Group B comprising Scotland, Zimbabwe, Afghanistan and Hong Kong.

- Trinidad Guardian

sports

PAGE 21

PAGE 22

sports

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 9, 2016

First ball NEW DELHI -- Mahendra Singh Dhoni was there when India won the first Twenty20 world title, a victory that transformed a relatively new cricket concept into a gamechanging phenomenon.

He faces enormous expectations again leading the national team as the world tournament finally comes to India, home to the richest domestic league and some of the most damaging batsmen in the format such as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

India has won 10 of its last 11 T20 internationals, including the Asia Cup final on Sunday, and a 3-0 series victory in Australia and starts the tournament as a favourite. And although Dhoni said recently that India can “take on any team anywhere in the world” he also understands the tricky nature of the shortened game.

“The difference between teams can

often be just one knock, one individual batsman having a very good day or one bowler having a very good day,” said Dhoni, who led India to a five-run victory over Pakistan in the final of the inaugural World Twenty20 in South Africa in 2007.

India is aiming to become the first host to win the ICC World Twenty20.

The batsmen-friendly pitches are expected to make the 16-team tournament a run-feast much like the Indian Premier League, which has given experience of the conditions to star players from all over the cricket world.

The tournament gets underway today with a preliminary league involving eight teams, two of which qualify for the Super 10 stage which will feature intense derbies between Australia and New Zealand and India and Pakistan in the picturesque hill city

of Dharamsala. The final is set for Kolkata on April 3.

Five countries have won the title in five previous editions, with India, Pakistan, England, the West Indies and Sri Lanka winning in that order. Australia has won the World Cup in the one-day format more than any other country, but so far the T20 title has been elusive — its best run resulting in a loss to England in the final in 2010. South Africa and New Zealand also haven’t won the claimed the T20 crown, but have the firepower to break their droughts.

The Sri Lanka squad isn’t playing with anything like the level it reached to beat India in the 2014 in Bangladesh, and is struggling without retired batsmen Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara, finishing only above the United Arab Emirates at the recent Asia Cup. It lost all three games

that mattered — to India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Pakistan was also less than impressive at the Asia Cup and its batsmen will have to score enough for the likes of Mohammad Amir and Wahab Riaz to make a contest of it. There are 35 matches to be played over 27 days at eight venues including the preliminary league.

From the initial phase, one team from among Bangladesh, Ireland, Oman and the Netherlands will advance to Group 2, which comprises Australia, India, New Zealand and Pakistan.

Afghanistan, Hong Kong, Scotland and Zimbabwe will compete for a place in Group 1 featuring England, South Africa, Sri Lanka and the West Indies.

- Trinidad Guardian

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food

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Shrimp wontons Chris De La Rosa chris@carib101.com

Caribbean Cooking Shrimp Wontons or Wantons is one of those snacks I grew up eating at the many Chinese restaurants and food trucks in San Fernando Trinidad as a young fella. Fresh from the fryer and dipped in a basic sauce of soy sauce and pepeprsauce, it was the ideal thing to eat after dad, my younger brother and I would go watch Kung Fu movies on a Saturday afternoon. It was usually the appetizer for an amazing full-on Chinese meal, as you could

ONLY get in n Trinidad and Tob Tobago. bago. A Ask sk aany ny Trinbagonian and they will swear that ‘our’ Chinee (Chinese) food is unlike any you’d find elsewhere.

You’ll Need: 3/4 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined) 1 scallion 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger pinch black pepper 1/4 scotch bonnet (optional) 1 tablespoon Chinese cooking wine 1 teaspoon soy sauce pinch of salt wonton wrappers 3 cups veg oil for frying Note: If you wanted to replace the shrimp with chicken, you can certainly do so.

Finely chop the prepared shrimp, scallion, scotch bonnet (no seeds and wash your hands after with soap and water) and

grate the ginger. Pl Plac Place ace everythi everything ing (except the veg oil and wrappers) in a bowl and combine. Allow to marinate for 15 mins.

It’s now time to prepare the little packages, called wontons for frying. I like making them all, before I start frying as they cook very fast. Take a wonton wrapper and wet 2 sides – meet at a corner… with water (on your fingers). Then place about 1/2 teaspoon of the shrimp mix in the center. Now (press the air out as you seal it) close by folding the dry corners over the wet corners.

You’ll be left with a filled triangle package.

Wet one of the outer corners with water and pull the other corner to touch, overlap and stick! Sounds a bit confusing, but you can watch the video below to see how simple this is.

Heat the veg oil on a medium/high flame and gently place a few of the wantons (so the hot oil doesn’t splash back at you). I did about 20 of these wontons, but

you can easily get between 40-50 from the shrimp base we made. If you have remaining shrimp, freeze for another time.

Fry for about 3 mins on each side.. be sure to flip so it’s evenly cooked. In about 5-7 mins they will be nice and golden and ready to remove. Place on some paper towels to drain off the excess oil and do try to serve warm. You can always make these a couple hours in advance (if hosting people) and reheat in the oven. But they’re so much better freshly made (they may tend to go soggy after a while).

My dipping sauce was VERY basic.. soy sauce and peppersauce (hot sauce).

But you can be creative with sesame oil, Hoisin, fish sacue or any other condiment/ sauces you like.

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

travel

PAGE 27

Amazing adventures in our own backyard Micca Vanvield

micca@carib101.com

Travel Specialist Once school is out for the March Break we generally start to think about what we’re going to do to keep the kids occupied. One of the first things that comes to mind is that we should be going on vacation and that we should have planned it months ago. You can definitely try searching for last minute deals but my biggest advice for travel during March Break is to plan ahead. I’ve seen far too many clients disappointed or feel like they’ve overpaid on a vacation during this time. If you’ve realized that a trip to the airport isn’t the most ideal and you still need to create an adventure for your family, why not

look in your own backyard. Ontario has a variety of gems for you and your family to explore and there’s often more than just passports, travel insurance, itineraries that need to be planned. The best part is all you’ve got to do is load up your car.

Here are some tips and locations where you can create your family adventures: Blue Mountain: They offer year round activities especially at March break. You can enjoy family fun with skiing, snowboarding, off hill action, outdoor pool and live entertainment. Visit www.bluemountain.ca for further details.

Horseshoe Resort: Stay overnight or plan a trip for the day. They offer action packed activities that the whole family can enjoy. Enjoy winter outdoor activities, the spa, sunrise yoga, moonlight skiing and fitness activities.

They are even offering a spending credit for dining and activities during March Break.

Visit www.horseshoeresort.com for details.

Jungle Cat World: Plan a trip to experience wild species from around the world in an up close and personal setting. Many of these animals have been threatened with extinction and here you have an opportunity to learn about them from the experts. You can visit for a day, a night or stay awhile. Do call ahead as they will be open during the break weather permitting. Visit www.junglecatworld.com for further details The Wave Pool: Enjoy family play in the water even though you didn’t make it to a Caribbean destination. Visit the Richmond Hill Wave Pool to play in the waves, lounge on the water mats, enjoy the swirl pools warm water, enjoy the 160 ft. waterslide and even relax in the sauna. Visit www.richmobdhill.ca/wavepool for further details Bingemans Grand Experiences: Enjoy a large indoor family playground with arcades which feature the most recent games on the market, state of the art bowling and even

paintball. They specifically offering a March Break Carnival where you can enjoy inflatables, rides and exciting activities. Visit www. bingemans.com for further details.

Pack a travel health kit that can help with the minor bumps, scrapes and mishaps that are bound to happen. Be sure to have your own age and weight-appropriate car or booster seats for your little ones, but most importantly pack an open mind.

Any travel with the family is all about spending time with those who matter the most. It’s all about having amazing experiences and creating lasting memories together. As a Lifestyle Travel Advisor it is my pleasure to serve you with useful tips that will help you have unforgettable experiences. I help my clients develop itineraries that cater to groups and individuals which will have everyone walking away with some type of transformation.

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

body & soul

PAGE 29

Tight hamstring safety Melissa Goodman

melissa@carib101.com

Yoga Specialist You have probably heard that low back pain might be linked to tight hamstrings. So you decided to stretch your hamstrings more or find a class that focuses on hamstring release. This is wonderful, you have found a way to create more space in the hamstring and in turn more space in the low back. But is folding forward such a good idea? Actually it depends.

The mechanics of the body is a

whole, it is difficult to look at one area without looking at the surrounding areas and the interaction between them. There is a correct way of folding forward to keep the spine safe. If you repeatedly fold forward with tight hamstrings, without certain precautions, you can cause more harm than good.

By looking at the hamstrings and the interaction they have with the pelvis we can gain a deeper understanding.

The hamstrings originate from the bottom of the pelvis (the sitting bones) and extend about two-thirds of the way down the back of the legs, at which point they connect to the tendons that cross at the back of the knee. There are three muscles that make up the hamstrings, allowing us to bend the knees. The hamstrings also play into hip rotation and hip extension.

The basics of a forward fold is to have the legs straight and hinge from the pelvis however, this is not always accessible es-

pecially if there is a lot of tension. The body will look for ways to compensate, either bending the knees or pulling the pelvis backwards causing the low back to round. When the natural curve is removed from the spine it causes compression to the internal organs, the lungs, heart and digestive organs are pressed back, pulling on the back muscles and spinal ligaments causing them to overstretch. If repeated frequently this constant strain on the spinal ligaments may transfer into the spinal discs causing the disc to push backwards with the potential of a herniated or bulging disc.

Props make a huge difference in safely opening the hamstrings. If standing start by drawing the knee caps up, this engages the quadriceps (the front of the thighs). The quadriceps work with the hamstrings, when one is active the other releases to allow for movement, so by drawing up on the knees you engage the quads and allow

the hamstrings to release. Keeping the legs engaged begin to fold forward, you may use a yoga block or the wall to assist, stopping your forward fold when you can no longer keep the back straight.

If sitting have the legs extended out straight, you can always sit with your back against a wall or have your sit bones on the edge of a firm blanket or cushion to help hinge the pelvis forward. If you are sitting back in the pelvis, work on opening the hamstrings before incorporating seated forward folds.

If laying on your back, use a strap around the foot and extend the leg straight up, this allows for the hamstrings to open while protecting the back.

Be patient, it takes time and you cannot rush the hamstrings to release. Longer held poses will assist in unwinding the hamstrings and the low back.

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

health news

PAGE 31

Top 10 alkaline foods you should be eating everyday The way that digested foods react to our bodies can either result in an acidic blood pH or an alkaline blood pH, which can have a significant impact on our health. Studies have proven that the more we alkalize, the better we function and the more energized we feel. An alkaline state promotes vitality, a disease free body and can significantly increase your life span. It can help you to lose weight, lower blood pressure, destroy cancer cells, prevent heart disease, soothe arthritis and keep you looking and feeling younger and stronger.

Acid forming foods include white flour, meat, eggs, dairy, coffee, alcohol, fish, legumes, sodas, sugar, fried food, canned goods and dried fruit. Sweeteners, medication, and environmental toxins also cause acidity, as well as stress, anger and toxic emotions.

Modern standard diets and lifestyles are generally highly acidic, and it would take practice and careful attention to shift your mind and body to an alkaline state.

But there’s good news! There is an abundance of incredibly delicious, healthy and nutritious alkaline foods that you can easily add to your lifestyle today to eliminate acid-

ity from your body. You will feel more energized, less stressed and will have a body that is functioning at its optimum for long term sustainability.

Here are the Top 10 alkaline foods for your new lifestyle: Avocados: Creamy, delicious avocados have a pH of 8.0, which not only alkalizes your entire body but also helps to neutralize any other acidic foods in your stomach. You can add them to salads, make a delicious guacamole or eat them halved with salt and pepper.

Ripe Bananas: Most of us have made the mistake of eating unripe bananas, which can lead to constipation, acidity, and poor nutrient absorption. Ripe bananas have spotty skins: the little brown spots and the soft, easy-to-peel tips signal that they are ready to eat, offering a stream of vitamins, minerals and plenty of alkalinity.

Almonds: Most nuts are acidic, but almonds and almond milk are an incredible source of health, vitality and alkalinity. They help to lower cholesterol, improve brain function,

improve digestion and leave your body with a perfectly balanced alkalinity.

is packed with fiber, water, vitamins and minerals for better health.

Asparagus: Noted as one of nature’s most powerful alkaline forming foods, asparagus also gives your body plenty of fiber, water, vitamins, minerals and anti-ageing antioxidants. Its pH is 8.5, making it a great addition to any meal.

Lemons: Lemons might taste highly acidic, but through the digestive process, they are transformed into an incredibly alkalizing substance that benefits your entire body. In fact, lemons are the most alkalizing foods available, which makes it a great idea to add slices of lemon or lemon juice to your daily glasses of water.

Watermelon: Watermelon offers a pH of 9.0, and is packed with vitamins, minerals and electrolyte-balancing water. The high fiber and water content make it a great food for eliminating toxins, as well giving you a good flush of alkalinity.

Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne is an excellent anti-bacterial spice that also offers your body a good dose of alkalinity. It has a pH of 8.5, and helps to improve circulation, lower blood pressure, eliminate toxins and boost brain function.

Papaya: Papayas are known to be easy on the digestion, soothing multiple digestive ailments, and disorders. This is due to its highly nutritious and alkalizing flesh, which

Broccoli: Being a cruciferous anti-cancer vegetable, one would suspect that broccoli is a highly alkalizing food, and it is. It offers plenty of fiber and serves as a dense source of nutrients, which boosts your health while keeping you alkaline after every delicious serving.

Garlic: Garlic offers incredible flavor to multiple dishes and helps to neutralize the acidity of acidic foods such as meat, fish, cheese and eggs. Garlic and greens would make a powerful combination, giving you plenty of fiber, nutrients and a stream of alkalinity.

- Natural News

Maitake: Dancing mushroom that prevents diabetes, boosts immunity & kills cancer Maitake mushrooms have been used as both food and medicine in Asian cultures for many centuries, and are described as having a rich, earthy taste. The name maitake means “dancing mushroom” in Japanese. They are most common in the Northeastern areas of the United States and Canada. They also exist in hardwood forests in parts of Japan, China, and Europe. In North America, fresh and dried maitake mushrooms are available at some grocery stores and markets, and the extract maitake D-fraction is sold as a dietary supplement.

Maitake Nutrition Value • 377 Calories per 100 grams dry weight • 25% Protein • 3-4% Fats (1 percent polyunsaturated

• • • • • • • •

fat; 2 percent total unsaturated fat; 0.3 percent saturated fat) 60% Carbohydrates (41 percent are complex carbohydrates) 28% Fiber 0% Cholesterol B Vitamins (mg/100 g) Niacin (64.8mg) Riboflavin (2.6 mg) Pantheonic acid (4.4 mg) High concentration of potassium: 2,300 mg/100g

Unique Health Benefits Of The Maitake Mushroom Cancer: Many studies are suggesting that maitake mushrooms may protect you against

various cancers, with one key compound gaining most of the attention. Known as DFraction, this polysaccharide has the ability to enhance certain immune system cells, such as macrophages, helper T cells, and cytotoxic T cells, which all work together to attack tumor cells.

Prevent Diabetes: Maitake may help manage blood sugar levels and prevent diabetes.

According to study a polysaccharide molecule in maitake, called MT-alpha-glucan, decreased fasting blood sugar and insulin levels and increased levels of glycogen, a short-term storage form of glucose, in the liver. Maitake also increased the ability of insulin to bind to liver cells and improved pancreatic function. Researchers concluded

that maitake may be useful for prevention and management of diabetes by decreasing insulin resistance.

Immunity Booster: Study of the New York Academy of Science found that maitake D-fraction boosted the immune systems of mice injected with liver cancer calls, and the 1997 study mentioned above found that maitake D-fraction enhanced immune function in mice implanted with breast cancer. Further, a study published in the Summer 2004 issue of the Journal of Medicinal Food found that maitake D-fraction activated immune cells and might help fight infection.

- Natural News

PAGE 32

health & you

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 9, 2016

What to do when you have the Flu Dr. Lydia Thurton

drlydia@carib101.com

Health Tips The flu descended on my household and it took no prisoners. My loved ones were down and out. Exhausted, feverish, aching and cranky. It was a sorry sight to see. I’m going to tell you how I nursed my loves one back to health. You can do it too.

Disclaimer, I do keep Advil or Tylenol on hand for when temperatures soar past 40C or my loved one is in a lot of physical pain. By and large the flu needs rest and a few naturopathic tricks that can alleviate pain and

suffering. Keep in mind influenza is a virus.

Not a bacteria. Antibiotics won’t help you.

Juicing. Appetites are low when you are sick. Having a high temperature leaves you craving cool refreshing liquids. Time to dust off your juicer/vitamix/blender. I threw together mangoes, strawberries, coconut water, spinach and parsley to create a cool refreshing vitamin rich drink. In a small glass there was over a day’s worth of vitamin C, some fibre, antioxidants and nutrients to keep the body going. No large meals needed when you blend and juice. Even picky kids can’t turn down a fruit smoothie.

Pressure points. I do acupuncture but you can use acupressure at home. Its awesome to help heal people with only your bare hands. Massage the temples and push 2cm above the midpoint of the eyebrow to alleviate headaches behind the eyes. Pushing down on the vertex of the head, the very top point on the skull, helps clear heat and help pulsing, splitting headaches.

Lie your family member on their

back and slide your hands under their head.

Put your finger tips where their neck meets their head. You will feel areas of tension here, gently massage.

For sore throats and head congestion push on the fleshy part between your thumb and first finger. This is a master point for all head and neck problems and is often tender.

Ask your sick family member if the point feels sore. If it does, you’ve found the right spot. Push firmly.

Apply a cool cloth to the head and neck. I avoid using ice cold water and opt for cool. It’s less shocking and still does the trick.

Leave the compress on until the body has naturally warmed the cloth. Repeat. A cool compress causes blood vessels to constrict, helping ease head pain and fever. Sitting in a room temperature bath can do the same.

Your family member should be fever free, without medication, for 24 hours before they return to work or school. Healthy people everywhere appreciate it when influenza infected people stay home!

Working out morning or evening Monique Bartlett

monique@carib101.com

Fitness Exercise is crucial for weight loss. Dieting alone will not help you to lose weight. Many centuries ago people were involved in a lot of manual labor just to survive and were able to stay fit. However these days most of us sit in front of computers for very long hours or no longer engage in physical work. Generally in your teens and early twenties it seems to be easier to maintain a healthy weight. However, once you cross that mark weight gain slowly starts to occur, especially in the tummy area.

In order to stay fit you need exercise.

Exercise is the best way to keep obesity, cardio vascular disease, high blood pressure and other lifestyle related disorders under control.

Exercise does not necessarily mean going to a gym everyday and lifting weights. If you don’t have the time for a regular work out in a gym you can exercise at home. No matter where you exercise you must do it regularly to get the best results. Getting started is the easy part, it is sticking to a regular exercise routine that is difficult. This is what makes most people give up and go back to bad habits.

Most people start a workout program all excited. They buy track suits, workout outfits, running shoes and a whole lot of other gear. Their first day of exercise is so exciting but then as the days go on, they get bored and lose motivation. This can be because they find it difficult to meet both personal and professional demands and they just burn out and stop working out all together.

Most people tend to choose to work-

out in the evening, but find that they are too exhausted in the evenings after a long day of work. This is because they are either physically or mentally drained. So it may be best to set aside some time for exercise in the morning.

In the morning our bodies are rejuvenated after a full night sleep and we usually have more energy. Exercise pumps more blood through the body and after exercise we usually have even more energy and are ready to take on the day.

That way we can plan the whole day without worrying about trying to fit exercise in at the end of the day. So figure out what you like to do and just do it. Whether its yoga, walking, running or whatever else you choose. If you’re just starting out make it easy on yourself and keep things simple. That means doing an activity that doesn’t require a lot of gear but still gets your heart pumping.

So in the morning wake up half an hour earlier, put on your workout gear and get started.

7 signs of Vitamin D deficiency NOT to ignore Almost half of the population suffers from vitamin D deficiency and many people aren’t even aware of the warning signs. The proper amount of vitamin D gives you an edge of almost an 80% reduction in risk of developing breast cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer and other diseases.

Before developing any of these disastrous illnesses, there are physical symptoms that can signal that you have a problem which needs to be addressed by normalizing your vitamin D blood level.

It’s actually not that hard to find out if your vitamin D level is adequate. You can order on online home test kit and do it yourself. Or, you can ask you doctor to order a lab test done. It’s really quite easy. The Vitamin D Council recommends that taking 5, 000 I.U. a day is a safe amount for just about anybody to maintain good health. They also state that vitamin D3 is the best kind of supplement to take.

Most Common Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency

can tell if a newborn may have a vitmain D deficiency.

If you’re experiencing the following symptoms, you may be low in vitamin D:

Aching Joints and Bones: A very common symptom of vitamin D deficiency is having nonspecific bone and joint aches. Since calcium is not easily absorbed into the body without adequate vitamin D, the skeletal system can suffer from the deficiency. This causes aching and pains in the bones that can be

Sweaty Head: Yes, you heard that right! If your head often sweats for no apparent reason, this is a classic sign of low D. In fact, this particular symptom is the way pediatricians

Exhaustion: Constant exhaustion that cannot be attributed to anything else is another important sign. Those who have been diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome generally are low in vitamin D as well.

Depression: Studies have shown that many people experience mild to moderate depression and the link to the depressed feelings is a physical reaction a vitamin D deficiency.

Normalizing your vitamin D levels can sometimes significantly lift depressive feelings.

Muscle Weakness: Researchers at Harvard have found that, especially for those over 60, low D can cause weakness in the muscles.

Muscle weakness caused by the lack of this vitamin will often go away by simply taking the recommended dosage of vitamin D3 for six months, the Western Journal of Medicine reports.

remedied by taking adequate amounts of the vitamin. As an added plus, adequate levels of D in the body also deter tooth decay.

Dark Skinned: If you’re dark skinned, you have more chance of becoming vitamin D deficient. Dark skin is a natural sunscreen and blocks sun-activated vitamin D from absorbing in your body. The best way to make sure you get enough is to take a high quality supplement.

Constant Health Issues: If you’re just always getting sick with one or another problem, this is a good indication that you may be suffering from vitamin D deficiency. Immunity is affected and the ability to fight off illnesses is dramatically lessened. Overall good health can be improved by taking proper amounts of D3. Some people have seen a marked difference in their health from one year to the next when they get their blood level normalized with vitamin D3.

Vitamin D is a critical nutrient that the body needs to prevent illness, maintin good health and fight diseases when they occur. Make sure that you do not suffer from a vitamin D deficiency in order to enjoy better health, anti-aging benefits and disease prevention.

- Natural News

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

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Reasons why you should be putting some oats in your life. It is a lifesaver Michelle Smith

michelle@carib101.com

Health Care As your Advocate, I am constantly searching for ways to keep you knowledgeable.

Remember lack of knowledge is a disease.

If you are from a West Indian background you know all about #OATs, Oatmeal the almighty stamina ingredient, but check out the other great benefits of eating oatmeal.

As we move into March, let’s remember that March is National Nutrition Month.

One of the most common questions asked is whether oatmeal is gluten free.

Oats do contain some gluten called Avenin, but it is a bit different to the gluten found in wheat. Some people with Celiac Disease, a disease in which the small intestine is hypersensitive to gluten, leading to difficulty in digesting food can tolerate oats. Most oats have been cross-contaminated with gluten at the farm where it is produced cited by many sites however, if you have Celiac disease, you should talk to your doctor first before trying oats. It is very important to always remember to discuss any symptoms that you experience at any time with your doctor or you

can talk to you advocate to help you direct your care. Oatmeal is a whole grain and eating whole grains can lower your risk for several diseases, including high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Oatmeal also contains lignans, a plant chemical that has been found to prevent heart disease.

Eating oatmeal can lower your cholesterol, especially your LDL, or “bad” cholesterol. If you’ve been diagnosed with high cholesterol, consider adding oatmeal to your daily menu. If you have a family history of high cholesterol stay on top of it. Family history speaks volumes. I’ve known many skinny individuals that have been plagued with the ongoing battle of high cholesterol. Use food as your medicine. Recheck your numbers every three months. Always consult with your Doctor or if you are not sure contact your Health Care Advocate.

Oatmeal is a source of fiber. That means when you eat oats for breakfast, you’re going to feel full for a long time.

Breakfast foods high in sugar and fat can make you feel full for a brief period, but then you’re hungry again. Sorry McDonald’s your Sausage Egg Combo otherwise known as Combo #2 is off my meal plan.

By the way, we all have guilty pleasures and it is better to recognize what your guilty pleasure is so you can take action.

Oats have an outstanding benefit for your skin. I don’t know about you, but as a child I had eczema so bad that

my mother used to make me wear dickies along with all my shirts, LOL. If you thought that oats couldn’t possibly have any additional benefits, I’ve managed to find some! Not only are oats great for the inside of your body but they are good for the outside too. They are hypoallergenic so they are great for people with eczema for soothing the skin.

Simple Oatmeal Scrub: You can make a great exfoliating scrub with oats.

This is very natural, will save you a fortune in expensive facial scrubs and it is very easy to do. Here is a very simple recipe. Ingredients: Oatmeal and warm water. Directions: Put a handful of oatmeal in a bowl and add enough warm water to make up a paste. Apply it to your face avoiding the eye area and gently scrub. Wash it off with warm water. Your skin should feel softer and smoother.

Oatmeal Bath Bomb: If you add oatmeal to your bath, it with soothe and soften your skin in a very gentle way and cost you pennies. Ingredients: Small mesh drawstring bag and oatmeal. Directions: Add the oatmeal to the mesh bag and close it. Add the bag to the running bath water.

Have a lovely relaxing soak in the bath and emerge with very soft skin all over.

I hope you enjoyed learning more about oats. If you have any other questions or comments about oats, I’d love to hear from you. What is your favourite type of oats and how do you use them?

Lastly you’re not doing yourself any justice without the ultimate oatmeal smoothie. A breakfast smoothie, consisting of blended oats, fruit, and ice, which can satisfy your hunger easily until lunch. You know the smoothie drill by now, but let me refresh your memory. Step 1. Grab these Ingredients and let’s go! Oats. I recommend old fashioned rolled oats over instant or quick oats as they are less processed and better for you. But, instant or quick oats will work, if that’s what you have on hand.

Steel-cut oats aren’t recommended for these smoothies because they don’t blend and soften well. Yogurt if you wish – optional. Milk. I don’t use milk – optional.

Fruit juice. This is optional. You can use all milk for the smoothie liquid, or a combination of milk and juice. You’ll see in my six recipes that I did it both ways. Fruit juices can vary a lot in their flavor, nutrition and sweetness. Blender. Mason jars. You can use any two cup container, but mason jars are the perfect size for storing, serving and grab-and-go convenience. They stack and store easily in the fridge and freezer. They can be found at Dollarama.

So what’s next? Always remember to know your numbers when you get blood taken or when you take your blood pressure or blood sugar. Keep moving, exercise combined with great eating is a definite recipe for success. Remember you are the most important part of your health care team.

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

How to sell the public on HOT lanes Tammy Flores

tammy@carib101.com

407ETR Matters The private sector has been lobbying our leaders to be their champions for HOT Lanes.

The private sector wants politicians and bureaucrats to sell the public on this scheme by using their brand and main stream media to “get the message out”.

September 2015, Transport Futures held a forum on HOT Lanes. HOT Lanes were lumped in with other travel options like Uber, walking, cycling, public transit etc.…

HOT Lanes were promoted as merely another option to travel.

John Howe, from Cole Engineering, recommended that political champions are needed to ensure that the new HOT Lanes are a success. The most shocking thing was that he directed our politicians, our leaders, to sell “we the people” on HOT Lanes. I am disturbed by this. Not only is the private sector telling our leaders what is best for “we the people”, they are telling our leaders how to sell us on a scheme we don’t want. Mr. Howe went on to say that HOT Lanes should be promoted in the context of larger issues related to electric/automated vehicles, fiscal disruption, changing personal mobility choices and democratization of road space.

“Democratizing” road space? I can see people refer to this scheme as gouging commuters, but democratizing road space? What a farce!

To democratize something means to make something democratic. If something is democratic it means it is of or for the people. How on earth is this scheme of or for the people?

There isn’t anyone I know that believes 407 ETR is of or for the people. They don’t think HOT Lanes are either. The consensus is that it’s a cash grab for the private sector. People feel our leaders are being bought off and that is why they are promoting this scheme.

This scheme penalizes commuters that have to use their vehicles to get to work. There is absolutely nothing democratic about this scheme at all. It’s not even capitalism because a true free enterprise wouldn’t need our politicians to sell their product.

The more I see this traffic management option pushed as the preferred method to fund and manage new road infrastructure projects, the more I question what really is the Province’s policy goals to support such a scheme?

HOT Lanes use the same traffic management scheme as 407 ETR. Private interest controls our road space.

If we continue down this path, gone are the days of building and designing road infrastructure out of need. Now our road space will be looked at in terms of what will make

the most money. That is a natural consequence of having the private sector control our road space.

Terri Hall, from TURF (Texans Uniting for Reform & Freedom a group of volunteers in Texas advocating against toll roads) most recently likened privatizing our water to privatizing roadways. This reminded me of Jodie Parmar’s efforts in 2012. He was the former Vice President, Corporate Development and Privatization Secretariat/Ontario that successfully led the $3.107 billion privatization of Highway 407. He wrote an article for the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, September 26th, 2012 about being ignored when he brought proposals to senior public officials that could have saved the lives of seven Walkerton, Ontario residents.

As reported by The Globe and Mail’s John Ibbitson on December 20, 2000, “Had the Mike Harris government adopted a confidential report almost four years ago, there would be no Walkerton inquiry because seven people would not have died from contaminated water. To add irony to tragedy, the Ontario Tories are now actively considering a plan to solve the Walkerton mess that is virtually identical to the plan they rejected…In the spring of 1997, senior [prospective] advisers to the Ontario government presented a report to a committee of deputy ministers and political advisers that offered a troubling diagnosis of the state of Ontario’s waterworks. A copy of the report has been obtained by The Globe and Mail…”

Although no lives are at stake in the case of Highway 407, Jodie Parmar has been ignored again. He came forward on his own with potential solutions to 407 ETR issues and was blocked from securing a meeting with former Premier, Dalton McGuinty and the current Premier, Kathleen Wynne. Former Premier, Dalton McGuinty was quoted promising a meeting. It’s been five years since Mr. Parmar came forward with and no meeting ever happened.

Jodie Parmar’s advice to this administration regarding a way forward on 407 ETR matters is aided by the benefit of being, as described by Justice Drew Hudson in his July 10, 2004 Arbitration Decision, the “very senior employee of the Province who led and managed the process for privatization, the governing agreements and the legislation” and as described by Robert Benzie of the Toronto Star, the “architect of the $3.1 billion privatization of Hwy. 407”. My question is why does this administration refuse to meet with Mr. Parmar? What are they afraid of?

They know he has the answers they don’t want?

A question asked at the most recent Provincial PC convention was, what can be done with 407 ETR? The answer was they didn’t know. Really?! You don’t know who you can turn to for the answer? And politicians wonder why people are disengaged.

Are you ready to have HOT Lanes shoved down your throat? It’s coming and unless you speak up, it will be too late.

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life

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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Using the right type of Insurance to cover my mortgage balance Fazaad Bacchus

fazaad@carib101.com

Finance Specialist Buying a home is one the most important purchases you will make during your lifetime.

At first there is the stress of finding the right one, considering affordability, location, organizing your financing etc. Then comes the day of moving in, a day filled with great joy at the ownership of such an important asset and possibly your family home.

You realize soon enough that the payments are mounting, the mortgage, the utilities, minor renovations, yard work, property insurance, its all adding up.

Typically it’s hard enough for two

people to manage in the early stages of a home purchase let alone one. For this reason many are advised to take out a mortgage insurance just in case something were to happen to one party, the other would not have to return the property to the bank.

However when it comes to buying life insurance to cover the balance on the mortgage, I do agree it’s an extremely important aspect when buying a home, it begs the question from whom should you purchase. Should I use the coverage offered by my lender namely the bank or should I use an insurance company. It’s a matter of convenience to use the bank, you are right there signing the mortgage papers and you are asked the question of whether you would like to have some insurance to cover the loss at a very small cost. It’s easy to say yes and end the hassle, but I would like to submit to you that you need to consider the following reasons before making such a decision.

Post Underwriting: When you buy from your lender, you are not required to do a medical, just answer a few medical ques-

tions and you are covered. A bank’s mortgage coverage does not do full underwriting on the policy at the time it is bought but only when a claim is made, therefore there is no guarantee that the claim will be paid. On the other hand an individual policy bought from a Life Insurance company requires full underwriting upfront ensuring that your policy is guaranteed unilateral contract.

Coverage is not portable: If you decide on selling your home to upgrade or decide to move to another lender due to better rates, your coverage will automatically cancel and you have to reapply all over again. Premiums will now be higher due to higher age and may even be declined due to medical conditions. With an individual policy, you can carry the coverage regardless of which lending institution you choose to borrow from.

Reducing Coverage: Your bank’s coverage is tied in directly with the mortgage balance, therefore if you have a small balance remaining, that’s all the coverage you have

also. Coverage decreases whilst the premium remains level. With an individual policy, your coverage remains the same throughout the term of the mortgage wherein if you were to die, there would be some amount of money left over to do other things, like funeral, leaving monies for family etc.

The bank is the beneficiary: When you have mortgage insurance from the lender, it is the lender who is protected as it is the lender who is the beneficiary. You have no say in this matter; yes the money is used to pay off the mortgage, but what would be the case if you needed money for more pressing things like settling funeral costs etc? When you have an individual policy, you can name your beneficiary and you can decide how to distribute the proceeds from your policy.

It is my opinion that you should choose an individual life policy’s coverage over your lender’s coverage. If you currently have the latter, talk to you financial advisor on how to go about changing it or drop me a line and I will see how I can help.

Biggest turn-offs for potential home buyers Ron Barlay

ron@carib101.com

Real Estate These days, most sellers are taking advantage of staging their homes. This is because staging works. But above and beyond staging, there is a definite list of “must-not-

haves” when it comes to selling your home.

Throughout my twenty five years as a real estate agent in Mississauga, I have seen thousands of properties and I have witnessed some remarkable and unforgettable homes.

Below is a list of the top turn-offs for people searching to purchase a new home.

Dirty House: The very first thing you need is a clean house. Ensure your home is tidy before each showing. This may seem obvious, but it is surprising how many people neglect to clean up before potential buyers arrive.

Smelly House: Smells are a huge turn-off,

but you may be accustomed to the smells in your home. Have someone walk through the house with you and let you know how it smells. Then, invest in an air freshener if there are any problems.

should be neat and tidy. Your driveway and garage area should be free of any clutter, including children’s toys and bikes, garbage cans and the like. This first impression is very important.

Strange Colors: Some colors give people a positive feeling, but others can affect them negatively. If you have strong colors in your home, you may wish to paint these rooms a neutral color or white to keep from turning people off. Try to stick with grey or taupe.

Pets: Potential buyers should not be greeted with the sound of barking dogs when they ring the doorbell. When you are showing your home, you might wish to find an alternative lodging for your pets. It’s ok to have one cat or one bird, but try to keep the animals to a minimum.

Messy Lawn: How the property looks on the outside is very important to people. Whether it is in warmer or colder months, your lawn

It takes time and effort to sell your home, but investing in both will pay off.

Reflections of Black History Month Kathy McDonald kathy@carib101.com

Student Education Black History month is now over and as I reflect on the flurry of activities that occurred to celebrate the history and culture of Black people I wonder, I celebrate and I dream. I wonder when Canada will have its first Black Prime Minister. I celebrate the accomplishments, the victories and the stories.

I dream about a day that Black culture will be embedded in the society, in the curriculum and in our everyday lives that it will not have to be relegated to one month.

I would like to share some of the highlights of the month of February through the lens of a storyteller. During February I usually spend my days visiting schools and sharing stories of Black history through the eyes of a Caribbean Immigrant. There are tales of slavery, island life and folklore. This year my theme was the French influence of

the Caribbean. I was intrigued that so many of my St. Lucian creole stories were identifiable by students from other heritages. A Punjabi boy came up to me and told me that his grandfather use to tell him a similar story to that of ‘Compere Lapin Pays a Price’. A South Asian grade one student approached me after hearing the ‘Faces of the Caribbean’ narrative and expressed his genuine sorrow that I was a slave. His innocence and his authentic sympathy was delightful. I was touched when the mother of a sassy little grade three student saw me in the supermarket and told me that her daughter had just earlier that day educated a school mate on the bus. “When Preet was on the bus and was about to sit beside Natasha, Chandra told her not to sit beside Natasha because she was Black. Her mother told her that Black people are bad. Well Preet simply said “What century are you living in?” and proceeded to sit.

For the rest of the journey Preet, based on the lessons she had learned from your storytelling session, educated Chandra about her folly.” (names were changed to protect the identity of the students) Perhaps the most gratifying moment was seeing the final draft of my son’s essay. “……My heritage is a fundamental part of my identity, so there was no ques-

tion that I would use it as a conduit to helping me understand my history. When I look at my community, I often wondered why many of my friends come from single parent homes, while I am fortunate enough to have both parents, who were also both actively involved in mine and my siblings lives. Because slavery was one of the greatest horrors of history, where an entire race was subjugated and decimated, I decided to investigate whether it was correlated to the issues I had identified in my community today. I conducted extensive research, which included reviewing library catalogues and databases, reviewing past research papers from reputable historians and journals and interviews.

It became clear to me that there is a relationship between the slave family, which was first separated from their African homeland through the transatlantic slave trade and then often separated years later in the domestic slave trade and today’s Black family. For four hundred years, the ability to form solid relationships was damaged across several generations. The repercussions of this are still being felt in the Black community.

The slavery story is often dismissed and relegated to something that happened “so long ago.” Many in the Black community have never truly embraced, studied and

learned from this ordeal. Learning about one’s history is fundamental for one’s total development, especially in the area of self-esteem and self-awareness. My parents have always discussed with me at length the legacy of slavery, the resiliency of Black people and the negative remnants of slavery that still permeate in the Black/Caribbean community today. They have instilled in me a deep desire for learning, for commitment to family and a duty to the community. My parents believe strongly that a thriving community needs strong, educated families as its foundation…… I believe that one’s history does not have to define one’s future. Many Blacks need to become educated on the importance of family and nurturing so that the cycle does not continue to perpetuate itself in further generations.”

So I would like to challenge you, my readers to keep learning about Black history. If your heritage is Black or Caribbean, the profuse wealth of stories that have accumulated over the years will empower you and your children and your children’s children. If you identify as a different ethnic group celebrate our differences. The more you know, the more you grow. So Walk Good - Belle Marche!!

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Keeping your car in tip-top shape Jelani Daniel

jelani@carib101.com

Automotive Corner With spring quickly approaching, the warmer weather gives automobile drivers a chance to make up for lost time. Maintaining your car can prevent future instances of having to pay for repairs. Below are a few tips and tricks to help you learn how to maintain your vehicle so you can prevent hefty future expenses from unnecessary wear and tear.

Learn about the vehicle you drive: Understanding the parts of your car and what type of fluids it requires is extremely useful.

You can consult your car manual for detailed breakdowns of what your car contains and what certain signals mean.

TIP: Understanding basic components of the vehicle can be helpful when heading for

a diagnostic. Narrowing in on an issue with some level of knowledge can make you seem savvy and less likely to be fooled by up-sells and unnecessary repairs.

Fluids are the lifeline of your automobile: When checking your cars fluids, make sure that they are at the right level and that they are the right color, free from murkiness. For instance, a brown-tinted antifreeze needs to be flushed and filled with new antifreeze immediately because it is spoiled and can damage your car. Get acquainted with which fluids (anti-freeze, coolant, oil, steering, etc.) your car needs as well as what color and volume they should retain. Such knowledge can benefit both your car and your wallet.

TIP: The most important fluid to maintenance is your oil, so ensure you are getting regular oil changes from reputable garages.

CAUTION: If you are unable to top-up your fluids or don’t feel comfortable, visit a local garage to help you out. Often times, they will give you the insight you need to do it yourself the next time!

Oil changes: As mentioned earlier, oil is the most important fluid for your car so it is essential to do regular oil and oil filter changes.

The filter sifts the oil as it runs through the car to prevent long-term build up in your engine.

Start your engine folks: Your engine carries the weight of the car and also comprises for a large part of it. Being sure to have regular oil changes keeps the inside of the engine healthy, but temperature can have an impact on condensation. Starting your engine or taking short trips can harm the engine and muffler since condensation can set it and make the water set and rust, spreading to the muffler which can lead to expensive replacements in the future.

TIP: Turn your car on for roughly twenty minutes before driving and take longer trips to cut down on fuel consumption.

Overall, keeping your car in tip-top shape requires basic maintenance and care. Incorporating regular checks into your daily or weekly schedule can save you money for repairs in the future.

Disinherited? Not so fast!

Valerie Dye

valerie@carib101.com

Legal Matters It is not uncommon to hear of someone being disinherited. This disinheritance may occur in a number of ways. The testator may simply make a will and leave nothing for the person who is being disinherited. Another way, which has become quite common, is where a person transfers property from his name into the name of himself and another person jointly. The effect of this is that upon the death of the transferor the property passes to the transferee (joint owner) solely, under the right of survivorship and does not become a part of the deceased’s estate. This prevents anyone else from claiming a share in that property under an intestacy or otherwise.

It is important to note, however, that there are instances where the court will interfere with jointly held assets which should naturally pass to the other joint owner

in full, under right of survivorship.

If the court determines that a person who is determined to be a dependant of the deceased, has not been given enough financial support under the will of the deceased or under intestacy the Court has the power under Section 72 of the Succession Law Reform Act to deem the jointly held property as part of the estate and award support to the dependant from the proceeds of the jointly held asset. For instance, in order to circumvent the operation of the law under testacy or intestacy the deceased may have decided to transfer ownership of his home from himself into joint ownership with himself and a child. In this case, when the deceased passes away the child becomes the owner of that home under the right of survivorship. However, if the deceased has a another child or children or a spouse, who qualifies as a dependant and he failed to leave adequate financial support for either of them, the court may claw back the jointly held asset and provide support for the other dependants from the capital value of the jointly held asset.

Section 72 of the Succession Law Reform Act gives the court the authority to go after jointly held real estate, bank accounts or any other jointly owned asset.

It is important to note that not all jointly held assets will be treated in this

way. Section 72 (2) of the Succession Law Reform Act states specifically that only the extent of the value of the asset or disposition owned by the deceased will be deemed to be a part of his estate. This provision is aimed mainly at going after assets that were owned by the deceased but which he disposed of before death in order to ensure that one dependant benefits above the others. As stated in section 72 (3) of the Act, the person claiming support has the burden of proving that the assets belonged either entirely or in part to the deceased.

Section 72 is not limited to jointly held assets. The courts may also go after assets disposed of fully, if it can be shown that the deceased had the power to take back that asset at any time.

The objective of the legislation and the supporting caselaw is to enforce the idea that there is a legal as well as moral duty to leave adequate support for dependants after death. Consequently, a person’s deliberate intention to disinherit a dependant is quite likely to fail if the court intervenes and claws back those assets for the benefit of the disinherited dependant. It may therefore be worthwhile to make adequate provisions in a will for all dependants regardless of the circumstances.

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Wednesday, March 9, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

insight

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I feel stuck! Could it be me?

Simone Smith simone@carib101.com

A Better Tomorrow So you are at a point in your life where things have become pretty routine: you get up, follow a morning routine, work, spend money, pay bills, eat, sleep and repeat. Life is pretty good; it could be better, but everyone’s life could be better. Day in and day out, for many of us, it is always the same thing.

The unfortunate thing is that time is always ticking; the days continue to move forward and there is always that one thing that you want to do, yet you have not done it. We always have reasons too don’t we; I have to pay off these bills, I have to focus on my family right now, I have to focus on myself right now. It is no wonder that many of us have to make a bucket list; a list that forces us to do all those things that we really want

to do before we leave this physical world.

Many of us will not get the opportunity to complete our bucket list; I know! It is a very depressing thought. Let’s make a little bit of a switch to the tone of this article; what if I told you who are reading this that I can help you get through your individual bucket lists?

It is easy; are you ready; start living.

You are going to do one of two things at this point: stop reading, or think about what was just written. Start living? I am living, I am sure you are saying to yourself. Are you really living? Or are you hiding behind all of these reasons not to live.

For the next couple of months, I am going to work with everyone who has chosen to think about what was written. I will warn you, this is going to be a difficult transition. It is going to mean that you have to give up a lot of your routine, this is very hard. For those who have continued to read, I congratulate you for your bravery, and I promise that you are about to do something that will change your life for the better.

The best place is to start exactly where you are. One of the reasons why you have not been able to live is because you are stuck in whom you are. This person that

you have become is a mixture of bad experiences, good experiences, mistakes, failures, successes, great achievements, all the while there is still so much that you want to do for yourself or for your family. There are many ways that you can become stuck. I am going to outline six of the main reasons in the next few articles. The majority of my research was retrieved from a seminar that was presented at the Summer Institute, 2013 Lecture 5: The Double Vision Strategy for Becoming Unstuck, presented by Dr. Paul T. P. Wong, a legend of his time and one of the main contributors to Meaning Therapy and Positive Psychology. I want to take this time to acknowledge his work. The majority of my philosophical views are derived from his research and writings.

So, let’s get back to the reasons for getting stuck. Reason number one is having a self-defeating attitude. This attitude is present when you have thoughts or behavior that effect a person’s motivation and personal growth. This includes: being shy, being overly critical of others, getting inappropriately angry, perfectionism, having a negative self-concept and being defensive. This type of behavior has a negative impact on your

social environment, friends and family begin to notice this behavior and no one wants to be around Debbie Downer. Sometimes you may not even realize that you are acting this way. All you know is that things are getting harder for you and are beginning to feel lonely.

How are you doing? I am checking in because at this point, you might be entering into a denial period. This does not apply to you at all, you are not doing any of these things. I get it! I remind you that I said this was going to be difficult. We are going to work through this denial together.

Understand that you are human first. All of your achievements, successes, failures and defeats have brought you to this very point.

You are learning, regardless of your age, understanding that you are not always in control of you is not easy to swallow. I advise the readers to take some time and think about some of the ways that you might be defeating yourself. Do this in your own time. You have two weeks actually, because the next issue will begin digging deeper, opening up more.

This will be the difficult part. For those who are ready, I know you can do this. See you in a couple weeks.

FORWANTED SALE HELP

FOR HOUSE SALE OPEN

KITCHEN HELP

SPRING INTO SHAPE: Open House at SuzyMari Health & Fitness Studio on 100 Westmore Dr, Unit # 27. The event will be hosted on March 19 2016, from 11:00 am to 3:00pm. 416 895 5129

Now hiring Chinese Chef and West India Cook for busy Mississauga Restaurant/ Bar. Please contact Caribbean Sunset

FOR SALE WANTED

FOR SALE WORSHIP

905-564-7800 FOR SALE FOR SALE CAREGIVER: Looking for a full time live-in caregiver in the Thornhill area to look after an elderly lady. Please call 6478967101 for more information

HONDA ACCORD: 2002 Honda Accord SE for sale by owner. Good condition, black exterior with grey interior. 220,000km, CD Deck sunroof and spoiler included. Sold as is asking $1,000. Contact 416-705-9907.

KITCHEN HELP Hiring for part-time kitchen help.

Previous roti shop experience preferred.

Please call Lynn’s Buccoo Reef

905-452-7333

ESSEQUIBO: In the town of Anna Regina Essequibo Coast Guyana prime developed land stroke, land fill gated with buildings 3.586 acres ( 150,000 square feet ) industrial commercial, residential for sale. Serious inquiries 416-752-5932.

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

Sunday school at 10.05am. 416-293-1839 WEST INDIAN CONGREGATION Emmanuel. Mission Church of the Nazarene.

Service at 1.30 p.m.1875 Sheppard Ave. West, Toronto, ON, M3L 1Y6 For info call Rev. Jerold Boodhoo 416-303-7163

LIST UP TO 30 WORDS FREE!

Send your information to info@torontocaribbean.com or call 647-722-6298

SUNDAY SERVICE: Fountain of Truth Ministries Pastor: Reverend Maxine Campbell Worship Address: 2170 Kipling Avenue, Etobicoke Percy Johnson School – Cafeteria Sundays: 10.am – 2. pm Teaching, Worship, Ministering For info call: 416 748 0211 RECOVERY THURSDAYS: You CAN recover from your hurts, habits and hangups! Rosewood Church of the Nazarene, 657 Milner Ave, Scarborough, ON. M1B 2K4. Free. Light dinner at 6:30pm. Meeting 7pm-9pm Pastor Arnie 416-459-1462

Put a STOP to your DEBT problems today!

Know your options Get the professional and honest advice you deserve

All consultations are FREE Evening and weekend appointments available Brief & Associates Inc. Trustee in Bankruptcy Call Savi Persaud at (416) 634-2036

Administrator of Consumer Proposals 3845 Bathurst Street, Suite 402, Toronto, ON M3H 3N2

Tel: (416) 665-3000

PAGE 42

astrology

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 9, 2016

ARIES

TAURUS

Friday evening could bring a welcome release, a jolt, or a kick start. By early Saturday, Mercury dips into a more chill position, but by later in the day, Mars treks into game-for-it Sagittarius. Mars will continue to stoke a good fire through mid next month.

Regarding work, healing, and necessary improvement, Tuesday’s super eclipse is full of hidden promise.

Moving past the past has been a struggle, but you’ll find yourself on a better move-along now. As much as you know, it’s for the best; perhaps it is largely a matter of no choice and coming to an acceptance. Mars in Sagittarius urges you to take bigger steps. Whether now or later, Tuesday’s exceptionally opportune eclipse gifts you.

GEMINI

CANCER

Friday night, Mercury/Mars are in the mood to let off steam. Saturday has a lot going for it too. By the end of the day, you should feel you have figured out more. Sunday and Tuesday onward are prime for getting yourself someplace good. Tuesday’s eclipse can bring loss mixed with gain. See it as a saving grace.

Sometimes you just have to let it go or to give in. It can be hard to hold back on Friday.

While Mercury in Pisces, starting Saturday, is an ease-up influence, the rest of the stars are gearing up for action. A lot can happen in a short span. Eclipse Tuesday is optimal, perhaps even momentous. Watch for big news or results.

LEO

VIRGO

You’ll now take it deeper or it/they will take you deeper. Starting Saturday, Mercury’s advance into Pisces calls for the full-immersion program. Mars into Sagittarius is terrific for taking aim, putting yourself out there, and exploring options. Tuesday’s solar eclipse could surprise you with the need to do more repair, troubleshooting, or healing. Surprise expenses could get the better of you, too.

Thanks to Mercury, Mars, Sun, and Saturn, Friday/Saturday can be trigger days for next Tuesday’s super new moon. This stage-setting eclipse can bring a major release or a major heart-opening. It can open up or reveal something that gives you fresh insight into yourself or into another. It offers a momentous chance to heal, correct, or gain.

March 20 - April 19

May 20 - June 21

July 22 - August 22

April 19 - May 20

June 21 - July 22

August 22 - September 22

LIBRA

SCORPIO

Perhaps it was just beyond your grasp or your vision. Perhaps you couldn’t see it or tap into it previously, but you will put your finger on it now. Tuesday’s solar eclipse fills in a major missing blank. To the plus, the super eclipse could present a dream-come-true job opportunity, or a chance to study/consult with a teacher or healer of note.

Mars leaves your sign on Saturday, but it will be back your way again soon. In the meantime, Mercury’s advance into Pisces and Tuesday’s super-new-moon eclipse shower you with added opportunity and adoration. It’s a time to make yourself better seen and heard, especially Sunday through Tuesday. Now or soon, watch for something or someone special to show up.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

You’ll feel it building as of Friday, but even if there’s a slight time delay on that full battery recharge, know you’ll get there soon enough. Look to Mars in Sagittarius to supply you with ample horsepower over the next six weeks. Tuesday’s super eclipse puts something significant into action regarding health, wealth, career, or family.

Friday/Saturday, it’s time to switch tracks.

While you’ll still stay engaged and active, for the next six weeks Mars in Sagittarius diverts your primary attention away from your social life and keeps you more occupied with personal and private matters. Tuesday’s super eclipse can stir up something added, unexpected, and opportune. Watch for news or answers.

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Mercury now takes an exit out of Aquarius but Venus will benefit you through next weekend. Of course, Mercury in Pisces is also good for a boost, as is Mars into Sagittarius. Sunday, your stars, like your timing and your touch, are at peak. Tuesday’s eclipse could be big regarding money, love, hello, or let it go.

Destiny comes calling. Friday/Saturday could get it started. By Sunday onward, it could be in full swing. Tuesday’s super new moon is especially potent if your birthday falls on it or near it. Whether the eclipse delivers now or in a while, for all it’s a momentous time to allow something or someone new to enter your life.

September 22 - October 23

November 22 - December 21

January 19 - February 18

October 23 - November 22

December 21 - January 19

February 18 - March 19

Across 1) Calvin and ____ 6) Hates Mondays, loves lasagna 7) Peppermint ____ 8) For ____ or For Worse 10) Peanuts creator Charles 11) Get ____ 14) Charlie Brown’s beagle 15) Set in an office Down 1) ____ the Horrible 2) ____ Bailey 3) “Ack!” 4) Family ____ 5) Garfield’s canine friend 7) ____ Before Swine 9) Yanks the football away 11) Created by Gary Larson 12) Torn between Betty and Veronica 13) Bloom ____

YORK REGIONAL POLICE PRESENTS

International Day For the Elimination of Racial Discrimination 2016 F R E E E V E N T, A L L A R E W E L C O M E !

A Celebration of Human Rights Sunday, April 10 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Markham Event Centre 95 Duffield Drive, Markham

Join us for food, entertainment, cultural performances, community booths and displays.

This day will highlight cultures from around the globe uniting right here in York Region.

To RSVP your attendance – rsvpevents@yrp.ca

PAGE 44

self help

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Five tips for successfully integrating into the Canadian job market Keisha Johnson

keisha@carib101.com

Professional Development In February I had the opportunity to attend the 13th annual Internationally Educated Professionals, (IEP) conference in Toronto.

The one-day forum is a hub for connecting IEPs and key stakeholders in industry, government and academia.

The room was abuzz with hundreds of mostly newcomer professionals eager to learn how to effectively navigate the Canadian job market and leverage their skills for success.

The dilemma for Canada is underutilizing these professionals and the skills they bring.

The dilemma for IEPs is remaining resilient as they navigate the landscape towards a suitable career path.

So as an IEP how do you find your way in this vast expanse of newness? What must you do to remain resilient when the job hunt proves disappointing? How do you position and posture yourself as the best candidate for your ideal job even if you lack ‘Canadian experience’?

These were some of the issues addressed by the various panelists and below are a five of the many tips they gave.

Get connected: The most ubiquitous advice of the day for IEPs on the job hunt is to get out and get connected. This is a lifeline for success both as a starting point and also as a means of thriving generally. Getting connected helps you to gain experience, understand the culture and unique Canadian nuances, build and maintain a sense of community and support and get known.

Network and Net give: The Canadian job market is akin to an iceberg: the majority of the jobs available are ‘below the surface’ and filled through connections and networks as opposed to the much smaller fraction that is publicly advertised. Hence the importance for newcomers to network and get engaged. The panelists suggest a key consideration when networking is to have a bigger purpose than networking.

Murali Murthy author of the Ace series of books recommends, prioritize your net give as you network, i.e. consider what you can offer, what skills you can bring and become known for adding value to your network, mindful that your network is your net worth.

Tune your station and turn up the volume: Successful businesses and people know you, know what you want and how to sell it to you. They are emotionally intel-

ligent. CEO of Global Network Bob Lank suggests that IEPs model this strategy as they job hunt. “Tune your station by clarifying a. what you are passionate about, i.e. your passion; b. what you are good at, i.e. your competencies; and c. what you have that others will pay for, i.e. the value you bring. Then turn up the volume by becoming a master at packaging and marketing this well.”

Maneuver the lack of ‘Canadian experience’: A common frustration for IEPs is being bypassed for a job due to ‘lack of Canadian experience’. This is often viewed as a disadvantage but the upside according to several hiring managers among the panelists is that IEPs have skills that Canada needs especially today when immigrants represent 50-60% of the population in major Canadian metropolis and 20% nationally. IEPs international experience is therefore a valuable contribution to the diverse Canadian marketplace.

The winning approach some panelists suggests to maneuver concerns over the lack of Canadian experience is for IEPs to recognize their value and that people hire because they have a problem. Therefore, show that you have the solution they are looking for.

This is how to turn it to your advantage.

When you enter an interview for example, know that in the Canadian marketplace

you are equals. You have brought a value that the company needs. They need you as much as you need them. Steer an interview by highlighting your value and skills to the organization instead of allowing an employer to highlight your deficiency. Share stories that illustrate the strength of your problem solving skills and that demonstrates your leadership abilities so that they can see you as a potential leader in the company or industry. Additionally, “show your interviewer passion and excitement. Demonstrate confidence not fear, a good attitude towards work and a desire to succeed”, recommends Cheryl Phillips of Metroland Media.

Maintain your resilience with these five factors: Keynote speaker Dr. Kwame McKenzie, CEO of the Wellesley Institute offered five essential factors for maintaining resilience and balance in the career building process for new immigrants. Connection, Activity, Mindfulness, Learning and Giving Back. Connect with like-minded people who you can serve and they in turn add value to you. Be active. Stay in the here and now and embrace the opportunities around you. Keep your mind engaged with new learning. Find opportunities to volunteer and be a part of something bigger than yourself. When these five factors are present in your life he says, it enhances your well-being, preserves your mental health and boost your resilience and ability to thrive.

Are you a jumper or a toe dipper?

Sheena Blake

sheena@carib101.com

Personal Development Do you jump into the pool, or are you a toe dipper? Do you dabble around holding your towel and fixing your bathing suit deciding whether or not you’re even going to attempt a swim?

Last summer, I had an epiphany that swimming, in any body of water, is a metaphor for how many of us choose to face our visions. When we get to the ocean (our vision) we lay out our towel (our ideas) and get geared up for a swim (success and completion of our vision). But, something strange happens to us on our trip to the water…FEAR rears its pungent head and we begin to have second thoughts. Maybe the ocean is too deep, too cold, I’ll be in there all alone, there may be sharks and so on and so forth.

At this time in my life, I had some great and huge ideas which scared me…big time. I was scared to become great, impor-

tant and successful. I, of course, masked this fear with skepticism, avoidance and complaining.

“Just jump,” my elder gently reminded me. “Just jump into the fear of your vision.”

I had a multitude of thoughts and feelings when I heard this statement… “Just JUMP?? But what if it doesn’t work?” “And, what IF it doesn’t work?” she returned the question. “I guess I’d be ok…but, what if people think I’m crazy?” “And, what IF people think you are crazy?”… “Oh, I guess I would be ok.”

So, I began a literal practice to open my mind to the possibility of jump-

ing through my fears and into my vision and higher layers of myself.

This practice took place at every body of water I could find…I would just jump in. No toe dipping, no body splashing, no asking those inside “how’s the water?” I would just jump in.

This practice opened me enough to really step into my vision. I still do it to this day. The water is often cold but always refreshing.

So, I have a few questions that you should ask yourself; how is fear showing up and holding you back from your vision? Are you ready to jump in? Come on in; the water is fine. Serve the world; live your vision.

HOW DO WE TALK ABOUT SEXUAL HEALTH IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY? March 2016, 10:00 -AM - 1:00 PM March 15,1,2016 - 10:00AM 1:00PM Monte Carlo Inn, 45 Coventry Rd., Brampton, ON L6T 4V7 Guest Speaker Marcia Glasgow holds a Master degree in Public Health from New York University.

Having accumulated eight years of experience as a researcher, facilitator and presenter, she focuses on the issues of sexual health, sexuality, race, gender roles and social justice.

We invite service providers, teachers, faith leaders and community members to come discuss and explore how sexual health can best be promoted in the Black community.

This is a free workshop and lunch will be provided.

Advance registration is required. Please visit the following website to register: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/how-do-we-talk-about-sexual-health-in-the-black-communitytickets-22178932785?a=es2

RSVP: Alex Asamoah alexandera@phan.ca