Bollywood Movie Stars Invade Brampton

Bollywood Movie Stars Invade Brampton BRAMPTON, ON -- Bollywood fans had a real treat as the silver screen came to life on Sunday evening when Rishi and Neetu Kapoor made a live appearance inside the Powerade Centre in Brampton.

The Bollywood movie stars were the first set of many that will be in for the Indian Cinema In Conversation which is a 5 part series continuing through June, July and August.

Those who were in attendace were enlightened as the evening started out with festive music and entertainment.

World famous indian fashion designer Dinesh Ramsay presented a few of his colorful designs and Ali Collie had the crowd screaming and singing along to a few of the well know tracks including Tuje Dekha to Ye Jana Sanam.

Everyone in attendance was surprised to see how humble and down to earth the couple really was., as they came on stage, Rishi Kapoor instantly asked for the auditorium lights to be turned on so he would be able to see all who turned out to see them.

After the couple talked about all their great accomplishments the floor was then opened for a question and answer session where selected members of the audience were able to turn over hand written questions.

Neetu shared why the return as an on-screen

Bollywood stars Rishi and Neetu Kapoor speaking at a open floor event in Brampton which is part of a 5 series Indian Cenima event at the Powerade Center in Brampton.

Photo: Trish Browning couple after three decades was easy for her to do and why she decided to star in the movie Do Dooni Chaar.

This specatacular evening was one of five, so for all you Bollywood fans, you’re going to want to attend the next four events which will feature Bollywood stars such as Boman Irani, Nehu Dhupia, Karisma Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor who will all be making live appearances where the crowd will be able

to interact exactly the way we were able to Sunday.

It was such an amzing experience to be able to be so close to these stars and I couldn’t encourage Bollywood fans enough to attend the next events.

For more information on the upcoming event dates and times, check out www.poweradecentre.com

PAGE 2 - WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Ashley, Born of Romanian and Spanish descent, Ashley Martinez hails from

Bradford, this talented, up and coming pop singer is turning heads and ears everywhere. This beauty has a love for baseball and enjoys playing as much as possible in her spare time.

Ashley’s passion however is music and song writting, when she’s not singing or playing baseball, she spends her time writting music. Be sure to listen to your local station to hear some of her music or you can check out her website AshleyMartinezMusic.com

You could be our next editions “TC Girl”! To enter, send your photo and a brief description to info@carib101.com

KI building musical bridge between culture, people, and the world TRINIDAD (TG) -- Taking the spotlight as lead vocalist of a music band and ultimately delighting large audiences across the world was nothing but a thought for emerging entertainer KI Persad (Veeshal Kris Persad) eight years ago. He had just graduated from high school in Toronto, Canada, and immediately joined his father Veerendra Persad as a keyboardist with the band JMC 3Veni.

While on tour, he developed a greater appreciation for the critical role of the frontline vocalist as it related to audience appeal and impact. He turned to his father wondering if either of them would ever get the chance to take on that role. The conversation ended with a chuckle and the topic was never revisited. Five years later, KI emerged as the band’s frontline vocalist and today the reigning Chutney Soca Monarch and now $1 million richer for his music and performing efforts. “I’m 25 now. I’ve only been singing for two-and-a-half years as a professional singer, not knowing that after two-and-a-half years I would be able to win the Chutney Soca Monarch. “The feeling is priceless.

There are so many people to say thanks to, so many things to say. Being a part of T&T and being from T&T, it means a lot to me.

We are a small twin island nation, our culture and our people internationally is so big. Our presence internationally is so big,” KI told Sunday Vibe. “My entire band, we travel the world annually representing our culture along with all the other bands from T&T and all other artistes. Our music is so big out there. Being Chutney Soca Monarch gives me a title to go out there and truly represent, on a whole different level. It had a bigger impact than being an artiste with a song that captivated audiences.”

A musical bridge Apart from the signature prize, the young song writer also clinched the top awards for Song of the Year—Single Forever; and the Most Outstanding Male Performer. Citing these top achievements, KI wanted entertainers for whom fortune has not yet struck, not to lose faith but to remain positive and persistent. Even though his presence in the spotlight was constant, there are those among us who often enquired if he had a profession.

His trademark response to that is: “Almighty God gave me a profession that I share with everyone.

“We are all construction workers. You know why? God put us here to build the bridge between our culture, our people and the world.”

A tribute to heroes He might come across as carefree at times, but KI certainly knows when to wise-up and salute his seniors. Rikki Jai (Samraj Jaimungal), Drupatee Ramgoonai, his father (Veerendra Persad) and the late Sundar Popo were the forerunners in this genre of music who KI has showered with kudos. “It might seem

easy to go on a stage and jump and dance, but it really takes a lot out of you to go out and represent who you are and your people.

Just being one person in front of one million, two million people, it really takes a lot,” he explained.

Friends not fans While entertainers the world over commonly used the word fans to describe their support base, KI, preferred to classify this much needed group of support as “friends.”

“I never use the word fans. I always use the word friends. There is no such thing as a fan, no followers. We have friends. We have people who just support and enjoy what we do.”

Winning the Chutney Soca Monarch prize was not enough for KI. His hit selection titled Single Forever is said to have been written into T&T music history being the most played song during Carnival 2012. Using a mathematical definition to explain chutney soca music’s effect, he said: “What we are doing right now, we are creating an equation.

We are taking variables from each and every one of us and creating an equation and solving it, and that final answer is just what we need to take our music all over the world, just like soca music.”

Next stop, Soca Monarch KI was still settling into his role as reigning Chutney Soca Monarch, but he has made public his ambitions to enter the race for the Digicel International Soca Monarch title. He was caught by the bug when William Munro, executive chairman at Caribbean Prestige Foundation for the Performing Arts invited him to deliver a guest performance on Fantastic Friday at the Continued On Page 5

WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN - PAGE 3

Trinidad and Tobago signs new bilateral agreements with Canada PORT OF SPAIN -- Two new bilateral agreements were assented to between Trinidad and Tobago and the Canadian government during a luncheon at the Diplomatic Centre in Trinidad on Tuesday.

The signing took place between Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minster Kamla PersadBissessar and Canadian Governor General, David Johnston, shortly after a brief courtesy call on President George Maxwell Richards.

The first agreement will see the setting up of a framework of agreement for the expansion and modernization of this country’s public health sector and its services. The second agreement will touch on shared concerns of expertise between both countries’ prisons services.

Speaking at the luncheon, Persad-Bissessar said she was looking forward to the successful conclusion of other agreements currently being negotiated.

Noting that Canada was at the forefront of modern public services, the prime minister said Trinidad would also seek to partner with it to modernise the country’s public sector

services through a number of activities. A one-stop-shop and access service provider, she said would be looked at, as well as institutional strengthening of key agencies.

On the issue of labour, Persad-Bissessar noted that over 900 Trinidad nationals enroll in the seasonal work programme in Canada, as well as recent discussions with Minister of Labour, Errol McLeod, revealed that there were at least 300 vacancies to be filled within a Canadian oil organisation with ties in Trinidad.

The Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) was commended for its continued support and funding towards this country for projects such as training for special education, the radar systems at this country’s airport and other local projects.

The prime minister said Canada represented the tenth largest export market for this country.

Persad-Bissessar recalled Canada’s educational and religious influences, through the Presbyterian schools here, noted that she was its by-product, having attended both primary and secondary Presbyterian schools.

Minister of Public Administration, Carolyn Seepersad-Bachan, who was also present at the luncheon, said she was in discussions with the Canadian Commission Corporation to allow her ministry and other state agencies to do business with suitable Canadian service providers.

Johnston noted that countries that share a “good, healthy relationship” ought not to neglect it. Expressing his admiration for Persad-Bissessar and her “leadership on the world front on women and children’s issues”, Johnston called for that relationship to be nurtured instead, adding that too many times the focus is on the issues and problems facing the country.

“Success lies in being able to work together and share knowledge,” he said.

Johnston also touched on the issue of corporate social responsibility and urged that business communities do their part in the development of the country.

Trinidad and Tobago celebrates 50 years of independence this year, which also coincides with Canada’s anniversary celebrations.

Jamaica welcomes new WestJet service from Canada this flight is the fact that onboard the plane are travel agents, who will be doing a familiarisation trip and looking at Kingston, Port Antonio and Ocho Rios and what possibilities exist in opening up those markets,” he said.

KINGSTON, JAMAICA -- The Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) in Kingston, Jamaica, on April 30 welcomed its first WestJet international flight from Toronto, Canada, with 136 passengers onboard.

The Boeing 737 Next-Generation aircraft landed at approximately 12:05 pm to applause and cheers from the welcome party, headed by Minister of Tourism and Entertainment, Dr Wykeham McNeil.

The Canadian carrier, which also flies from Toronto to Sangster International in Montego Bay, will now have three weekly flights to Kingston on Monday, Friday and Saturday, making it a total of 10 weekly flights to both airports.

The minister, in his address at the brief welcome ceremony, noted that the entrance of WestJet into Kingston represents another step towards re-branding and building the capital city as a prime tourist destination.

“One of the very encouraging things about

McNeil noted that WestJet is “a very important carrier” to Jamaica, with as many as 27 flights into the island during the winter tourist season.

“WestJet is a tried and tested partner for us in the Ministry of Tourism. We look forward to a long and strong partnership,” he said.

Minister without portfolio for Transport, Works and Housing, Dr Morias Guy, pointed out that despite global economic challenges, flights between Toronto and Kingston have been growing in recent years.

“This growth was again demonstrated in the last quarter, January to March 2012, when the route saw an increase of over five per cent over the same period last year and there are strong indications that this trend will continue,” he said.

Guy noted that the decision by WestJet to flight to Kingston comes at a time when Jamaica will be welcoming overseas nationals and visitors for the 50th year of independence celebrations.

“This new route also signals the building of better connectivity between the two cities, and an expansion of opportunities for Jamaicans living in Canada to return home in a convenient manner and time, and to partner with us in building this great nation,” he said.

Mayor of Kingston and St Andrew, Councillor Angela Brown-Burke, also welcomed WestJet into Kingston, noting that the airline will not only bring nationals home for ‘Jamaica 50’ but also for the City of Kingston’s 140th anniversary events.

Acting vice-president, guest services, WestJet, Mark Brown said the airline’s culture is “a very perfect match for the warm and caring culture of the Jamaican people”.

“When people ask me why they should travel to Jamaica, I tell them ‘well the beaches of course, and the tourism events, but to me, what’s more important is the people’,” he remarked. He noted that there are indeed many countries with beautiful beaches and great tourist attractions “but the people, the smiles, the warmth is what sets Jamaica apart”.

Brown said that, as Kingston becomes WestJet’s 72nd destination, he looks forward to great successes and a long lasting relationship

PAGE 4 - WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN

DJ Afifa’s on justice mission for Vanessa Kirkland land, a student at Immaculate Conception High School, was killed by police during a police operation along Spanish Town Road.

“I just kind of want to find a way to say, ‘Yow, we need to check it. So I am trying to use art to make a point. To promote social justice, to make a point about activism. I am trying to use art to do that, so in my little way, I am trying to be creative, but still, trying to do something that’s impactful,” Afifa told the Jamaica Observer.

JAMAICA (JO) -- Reggae selector DJ Afifa Aza, is on a one-woman mission to get justice for the family of 18-year-old Vanessa Kirkland.

Afifa has appeared at cultural events with placards either side of her to sensitise the public to what she believes is the injustice that took place on the evening of March 20 when Kirk-

One of her placards read, “Why don’t we love our Vanessa Kirkland the way we love Bob Marley”, while the other bore the words Marley helped make famous, “Get up, stand up, stand up for your rights.”

It was at the recent premiere of the Marley documentary at Emancipation Park in St Andrew where Afifa debuted as a sole protester.

“Because the Bob Marley I think that I remember is a Bob Marley that meant more than the extravagance that happened in the park,” she

The origin of the coconut vendor

raise some cash. No job was too big or small: Stollmeyer augmented his firewood income by washing uniforms for the soldiers stationed at the St James Barracks.

TRINIDAD (TG) -- Coconut vendors, whether with long-ago donkey carts, ancient Bedford lorries, or ornate new advertising wagons, have been a fixture in Port-of-Spain seemingly forever. Long before bottled water and cheap, plastic bottled soft drinks, the easy way to refresh oneself after a hot day in the city was to pay a penny and have a vendor wield a razor-sharp cutlass across a coconut, guzzle the sweet water and then have it hacked open, so that the jelly inside could be eaten with an improvised spoon made from a chip of the same coconut shell.

One man alone deserves the credit for introducing coconuts to the streets of the capital.

Conrad Frederick Stollmeyer was born in Ulm in Germany in 1813 and moved to America, where he clashed with pro-slavery interests, forcing him to flee in 1845. He fell in with another German transient, JA Etzler, who formed a company called the Tropical Emigration Society, which aimed at establishing a perfect colony in Venezuela.

The plan failed miserably and the settlers ended up in Port-of-Spain. Stollmeyer was stranded in Trinidad with a wife, six children and $5 in his pocket. Undaunted, he applied for and received a lease from Lord Harris for some forested mangrove wasteland in Cocorite. He cut firewood, which he sold to

As trees were cleared from the leased land in Cocorite, he hired contract farmers who planted coconuts. A strict teetotaller, Stollmeyer decided to make a valiant attempt at providing the citizens of Port-of-Spain with an alternative beverage to rum. Then, even more than now, widespread drunkenness was a problem in the city, with more than half the detainees in the Royal Gaol being there for alcohol-related offences.

Stollmeyer had green water nuts harvested and loaded on carts, which he sold in Marine Square and on bustling Frederick Street for a penny each. The enterprise was wildly popular, although poor Stollmeyer would have been dismayed to learn that instead of abstaining from rum, the creative inhabitants of Port-of-Spain made use of his cheap coconut water as a capital mixer and chaser, when downing nips of heavy golden liquor or firewater white puncheon rum.

The determined German went on to make a fortune at Perseverance Estate near La Brea, where, under the patronage of the Earl of Dundonald, he secured several asphalt mining leases, both on the Pitch Lake and on veins near it. Charles Fourier Stollmeyer, his son, constructed in 1904 (the same year of his father’s death) the magnificent Scottish baronial mansion around the Queen’s Park Savannah, which is still known as Stollmeyer’s Castle, even though it passed out of the family in the 1970s.

So whenever you enjoy an ice-cold coconut (refrigeration began to appear on the beds of trucks in the 1960s and 70s), remember Conrad Frederick Stollmeyer.

said. “And how can this extravagance happen in the midst of so much injustice?”

Residents said they heard gunshots which were allegedly fired by the police.

Born Michelle Harris, Afifa grew up in Spanish Town, St Catherine, an inquiring girl who always wanted to know “why?”

Vanessa died on the spot, while the other occupants, including a 14-year-old, were admitted to Kingston Public Hospital with serious to mild injuries. The incident drew national outrage.

She has evolved into a woman who continues to challenge the world around her. The Vanessa Kirkland cause is her latest.

“I am calling this piece (the placard she wears), the ghost of Vanessa Kirkland and I am going to be wearing them everywhere I appear for the rest of the year,” she said. Every space, every audience that I get, I am going to be carrying something to remember Vanessa Kirkland because people forget her and people forget people like her.”

Vanessa Kirkland was a resident of Greenwich Town, Kingston 13. According to the police, about 9:00 pm on March 20, Vanessa and five other persons were travelling in a Suzuki Swift motorcar when, on reaching the birthday party they were going at Norman Road, they were approached by a police party.

Executive director of human rights group, Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ), Dr Carolyn Gomes, described the shooting as “alarming”.

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM), which monitors questionable police action, is probing the incident.

Afifa says she will not rest until there is closure.

“I cannot charge the policemen who did it.

There are certain things I am not able to do right now,” she stated. “But what I am able to do, is to make sure that people at least remember that this injustice should not have happened.”

No stopping Winchester

knee. He said his recovery should be pretty swift and he’s certainly looking forward to hitting the stage very soon.

TRINIDAD -- Shurwayne Winchester is proving that he will not be impeded by anything—not even an injury. For the past few weeks Winchester has been suffering with severe pain following a minor accident at his home and subsequent knee injury. But not even this could stop him as Winchester rolled with the punches, even recording a single collaboratively done with Bruk It Out vocalist, Mr Vegas in recent days. “I couldn’t let this stop the music,” he said with a laugh, obviously demonstrating his thirst to keep the music fresh for his fan base and those he is certain, will love the track as well. Set for release this weekend, the new single will be available on Winchester’s Web site, www. shurwaynewinchester.com first. In the past few weeks, the artiste and his band YOU, have impressed many. The Tobago Jazz Experience 2012 was a success for the soca champ and the band that continues to be raved for its style of execution. In fact, the reviews following his performance with his band at the Signal Hill Recreational Grounds on April 22, keep rolling in. On stage, the former Road March, Power and Groovy Soca monarch announced that he had been suffering from the aggravation of the knee injury, however despite that setback, Winchester proved to be a true trooper—entertaining the massive crowd who had turned up for a night of music on the hill. About one week following that performance, however, Winchester is recuperating from surgery done on the said

The SW Ltd team has had to cancel a few shows, however, understanding of the fact that life often throws a punch or two. Winchester is assuring fans and supporters that he’ll be back on the touring circuit soon and he’ll be ready to give them the energy they yearn for. Winchester has always been known to deliver an energy packed show. He said after last week’s Signal Hill performance, he had a new found respect for all entertainers, who, despite their impediments are able to thrill crowds and commanded audiences.

“These people who are able to pull off shows and get the support of massive crowds are proof that sometimes the energy and real enjoyment is in the personality and of course, the music. After that show last week with my pain and everything, I really have a new level of respect for all entertainers who are in that position,” said Winchester.

Following C2K12, Winchester released a new single called, More on the Hershey’s Riddim which was recorded in St Lucia.

Again, he delivered a single for his female fan base and according to the artiste, there’s a lot more of that flavour to come. The upcoming release of the collaborative single with Mr Vegas is something Winchester feels quite happy about. This is what he feels it’s all about—sharing musical ideas, vibes and energy. It’s been an ongoing musical ride for Winchester who has collaborated in the past with countless local and Caribbean artistes— a list which includes, Calyspo Rose, Destra Garcia, Bunji Garlin, Popcaan, Maxi Priest, Skinny Fabulous and female dancehall artiste, Cecile, among others. In just about two weeks time, Winchester will be back to soca star perfection with the physical functionality to match his energetic personality. He apologises to fans for the slight setback but promises nothing less that 100 per cent when he hits the stage following this hiatus. Check him out on Facebook—keyword, Shurwayne Winchester & You and Twitter@Shurwayne

Building A Musical Bridge Continued From Page 2 -- Digicel International Soca Monarch Competition and Play Whe Groovy Monarch Competitions held at the Hasely Crawford Stadium. “That stage is different and I will learn it better for next year,” said KI, laughing.

Honour thy father...

Any doubt about KI being a loveable guy

was put to rest when he started speaking about his family. He showered love onto his mother and siblings, but with it came to his father, they had a relationship which many fathers and sons could only dream. “Dad, I love you so much with all my heart. This is for you. My kids will do it for me, hopefully, if I have kids soon, because I don’t want to be single forever,” he said, laughing.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN - PAGE 5

PAGE 6 - WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Extra ‘spinner’ for Otis I never expected to see the day when Marlene Coudray would become more high profiled in T&T than Chris Gayle but such appears to be the case. Both are involved in seemingly never ending turmoil, but whatever happens to Gayle, Somerset and WICB really has no effect on the governance of T&T. However, the Coudray issue between UNC and COP and everything/everyone in between is having a negative effect on the minds of citizens where confidence in leadership is concerned, emergency meetings or not. Do we want to remain Third World forever? If world politics were a football league, T&T might be relegated to Fourth World status and if WI coach Otis Gibson needs an extra spinner in England, we have an abundance of PR “spinners” to suggest.

50 not out and going strong May 2 was the birthday of the two Bryans/ Brians—Davis and Lara—and all sportspeople wish them many happy and healthy years ahead. I go back to 1961 with Bryan, practicing in the Oval nets when I returned from university and in 1963 while working at

Trinmar, I used to book a vacant office where employees could meet Bryan to discuss personal insurance matters. Being a northerner, Bryan thought that Trinmar was at the other end of the planet and needed a compass and his passport to get there, but I reminded him that twice a week I had to drive the same distance to the Oval for practice so I could keep my place on the Queen’s Park ‘A’ team.

I think that gained his respect! In 1965, I was so proud to see Bryan walk out to bat for WI against Australia at the Oval and say to myself “I know that guy!”, and in 1968 while I was working in Zambia and Bryan was playing for Glamorgan in the English County Championship, we carried on an ongoing correspondence, which letters I still have stacked somewhere. Last week I spent some time in Bryan’s Q.P.Oval office while his son Gregory coached my grandson Dominic in the indoor nets. It feels good to know our personal partnership has passed 50 years and both of us are still not out!

Good fortune smiles on Sunil It seems that good fortune has smiled kindly

Miserable day for Windies again

the last ball, Smith hammered Hilfenhaus to long off for another boundary to seal a dramatic two-wicket victory. Interestingly, it was Smith’s first match of IPL season as he only arrived last Thursday as a replacement for injured Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson.

MUMBAI— Hard-hitting West Indies batsman Dwayne Smith pulled off a stunning last ball win for Mumbai Indians after a fine allround performance from fellow Windies star Dwayne Bravo had put Chennai Super Kings on course for victory in the Indian Premier League here yesterday. Chasing 174 for victory, Sachin Tendulkar slammed 74 at the top of the order and Rohit Sharma, 60, in a scintillating 126-run partnership to give Mumbai the upper hand. It seemed Mumbai would waste that good work when they crashed to 159 for eight with four balls left in the innings and 15 still required for victory.

Smith, however, punished fast bowler Ben Hilfenahus (2-34) for getting the yorkers wrong in the final over and got the required runs off the last three balls, to finish on 24 from nine balls and send the Wankhede Stadium crowd into a frenzy. The right-hander smashed the fourth ball, a full toss, over long-on for six before hitting another full toss straight down the ground for four off the next delivery. With Mumbai needing four off

Bravo, who finished with two for 39, had earlier cracked 40 from 33 balls to help Chennai to 173 for eight after they were sent in.

Murali Vijay (41), Suresh Raina (36) and skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni (25) chipped in with decent scores. Bravo and Raina shared a 62-run stand off 45 balls in the middle overs with the left-handed Raina being the aggressor, hitting three fours and a couple of sixes in his 21-ball cameo. In Bangalore, controversial West Indies opener Chris Gayle got 26 as his Bangalore Royal Challengers beat Deccan Chargers by five wickets. With the hosts chasing 182 for victory, Gayle and Sri Lankan Tillakaratne Dilshan (71) put on 91 for the first wicket to lay the foundation. CMC Mumbai Indians 174-8 in 20 overs (Sachin Tendulkar 74, Rohit Sharma 60, Dwayne Smith 24 not out; Ravindra Jadeja 2-12, Ben Hilfenhaus 2-34, Dwayne Bravo 2-39) def.

Chennai Super Kings 173-8 in 20 overs (Murali Vijay 41, Dwayne Bravo 40, Suresh Raina 36; Lasith Malinga 3-25, RP Singh 3-28).

and perhaps unexpectedly on off-spinner Sunil Narine, who if all goes well and with proper planning, should enjoy the next decade of his life without too many financial worries. A few months ago, the outside cricket world had hardly heard of Narine until out of the blue he was offered a $US 700,000 IPL contract. Whoever made that decision should be nicknamed “Mr. Perceptive” because the results so far have been very positive. I have watched Narine play in six of his seven games so far and he now lies third in number of wickets taken (12) and second in the RPO table (5.64). More important than his actual statistics are the ongoing compliments paid him by the various commentators most of whom identify him as the “mystery bowler”. Given that he will continue to enjoy success, it seems a good bet that he will be in great demand wherever T20 tournaments are held, which is not good news for West Indies selectors.

Injury Possibility Likely or IPL Unfortunately, the same may not be said about Kevon Cooper who signed on for

US$50,000 and who quickly established a top class reputation until he allegedly (the in-word to avoid a lawsuit!) fractured a knee attempting to take a running catch on the boundary, which I saw happen.

Cooper is out for the remaining IPL matches and two questions are (a) regarding his injury, how will IPL deal with the situation in terms of compensation and medical expenses / treatment? (b) might this allegedly serious injury affect his future in cricket? Kieron Pollard is also out temporarily with a shoulder injury which I also saw take place, and which may affect his bowling and throwing if not his batting. When you add the injuries to the likes of Tendulkar and Adam Gilcrist, maybe the acronym IPL should stand for Injury Possibility Likely. Despite the injuries, the IPL crowds – which have exceeded 1,000,000 - continue to sizzle, and in the 44 matches played so far, 410 sixes have been hit (9.3 per game!) – not a bad scoring rate! Chris Gayle has now hit 99 sixes in his IPL career including 29 this year.

Continued On Page 7

Spinner for Otis

Continued From Page 6 -- How times have changed When I was a youngster my three favourite football teams in England were Wolverhampton (Wolves), Arsenal and Blackpool.

England captain Billy Wright and goalkeeper Bert Williams played for Wolves which won the League championship a few times; the great Stanley Matthews and Stan Mortensen played for Blackpool and England for countless years, and the Compton brothers, Denis (England batsman) and Leslie lined up for the “Gunners”. In 1951 my Dad took my brother Chris and me to Highbury to see Arsenal play and because we wore a red and white supporter’s scarf, a lady fan gave us a sixpence for being so loyal, and taught us how to shout “Up the Gunners” with appropriate gusto.

I can re-live that like yesterday! Now when I look at the League table, Arsenal is 4th, Wolves lies at the bottom and will be relegated and Blackpool is no longer in the Premier League. How times change!

The uncertainties of sport Wigan never entered my brain until last month when in a desperate attempt to avoid relegation, the club produced out of the blue wins against Manchester United and Arsenal in successive weeks and then added a 4-0 victory over fifth placed Newcastle to stay above the four bottom clubs. The Relegation Derby can be exciting! At the time of writing, Newcastle has just overtaken Chelsea for fourth spot in the table and Manchester City is ahead of United on goal average, so by the time you read this, local football fanatics would know who finished where in the Premier League. I hope you were lucky enough to witness the two goals scored by Newcastle’s Papiss Cisse against Chelsea – you will not see many better.

Things money can’t buy Two events took place last week which did not appear on CNN News but are important nevertheless in a local context. First was the Youth Training Centre (YTC) annual sports day when the 15 dormitories participated in the March Past and there were many races for the young inmates, their parents, siblings and friends. I take my hat off to the YTC officers who give extra time and personal resources to ensure a good day is enjoyed by all, and even though the lads may have done something wrong and must stand the consequences, they are still in dire need of love, caring and recognition and a sports day is a great motivator. The key question which influences officers and volunteers is:

WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN - PAGE 7

“if he were my son or grandson, wouldn’t I hope and pray that someone would be kind enough to help him in a small way?” Try to imagine what it is like to give a teenager who has committed a crime something extra to eat and hear him say: “please tell the Macaroni Lady her food was delicious and thank her for thinking of me.” Money cannot buy such an experience!

Perfect message for teens The other meaningful occasion was the fifth Guidance Day for the 30 winners of Daren Ganga’s Scholarship Programme which was held in Barrackpore and attended by the boys and girls along with their parents.

The purpose is to educate through short lectures on special topics such as behaviour, nutrition and academic discipline as well as the distribution of funds for the following three months. We always encourage the winners to try to be “differ ent” in a positive way since they are remembered for these differences, and I always think of “Brandon” aged 12 when I first met him at his home and asked him what he wanted to be when he grew up. I expected him to say like all young cricketers, “to play for the West Indies”. Instead he answered: “I just want to grow up to be a good person.” How is that for being “different”? What a perfect message for all teenagers!

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T&T jockeys set for Northlands Park It was good to receive a phone call from jockey Nela Mohammed confirming that he, Ronald Ali and Stanley Chadee had arrived safely in Edmonton, Canada and had settled down nicely. The season at Northlands Park started on Friday and Saturday, and all three jockeys had secured mounts. Two summers ago when I visited my brother in Calgary, we drove four hours to Edmonton to see Nela ride, so I can relate to the track, stands, jockey room and other facilities which make it easier to communicate with him. Jockeys are often criticized but each of them possesses some lovely character traits such as courtesy and thoughtfulness of which the public is not always aware.

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State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, Aurora, Ontario

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PAGE 10 - WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Caribbean Pot: Delightful saltfish accras Chris De La Rosa Contributor Ingredients • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1/2 lb boneless salt fish (dry salted cod) 1 cup all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 small onion finely diced 2 cloves garlic, minced (use a garlic press if you have one) 2 shado beni leaves (or 1 tablespoon cilantro) chopped 2 tablespoons finely chopped scallions 1/2 teaspoon chopped thyme (I like using fresh, but if all you have is dried, use 1/2 the amount) 1 teaspoon minced hot pepper, red pepper flakes or pepper sauce 1 egg Dash fresh ground black pepper 1/2 cup water (or milk) Pinch of sugar 1/2 teaspoon parsley chopped – optional Vegetable oil for frying (about 3 cups)

The first thing we need to do is prepare the

salted cod for use. In a large pot, cover the fish with water and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and allow to simmer for about 20 minutes. TIP : leave your kitchen window open or have the fan above your stove on to ventilate the scent. The scent of boiling salted fish is not for everyone. While the saltfish boils (to remove the excess salt it was cured in and to rehydrate it), prepare the herbs, garlic, pepper and onion.

After 20 minutes of simmering, drain the salted fish and rinse under cool water a couple times. Now squeeze out all the excess water and shred. You can certainly shred with your fingers, but it may be a bit chunky.

The other option is to use a food processor or place the chunky pieces in a mortar and with aid of the pestle, give it a good pounding.

Let’s make the batter. In a large bowl, add the flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic, onion, pepper and all the herds we diced earlier.

Give that a good stir, then add the shredded saltfish and give that another stir. Now add the egg and stir again. The final step is to add the water The goal is to get a thick batter.

Now that the batter is ready, it’s time to heat the vegetable oil on a medium/high heat. As this comes to temperature for frying,start adding heaping teaspoon full amounts to the pan.Try not to crowd the pan with too many accras. It should take a couple minutes on

each side and you’ll notice they will start to float as they cook. Be sure to flip them a couple times while frying to achieve the perfect golden brown color accras should have.

Be sure to have a draining station set up (paper towels) to allow all the excess oil to saturate. If you find that it’s getting dark quickly it may mean you have to turn the heat down a bit or risk having accras that are raw in the middle.

This recipe will make about 12 average size

accras or about 16 small ones (appetizer size). This is an excellent party finger food or snack and it goes well with a spicy tamarind dipping sauce. Tip: Please don’t eat fresh out of the fryer (though it’s best served warm/ hot) as your mouth/tongue will pay the price.

Enjoy!

More recipes online - caribbeanpot.com

WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN - PAGE 11

How to reach your weight loss goal with 8 easy exercises Whether you’ve never lifted weights before, or work out regularly, but have never found the right strength-training program, you’ll find The Basic Eight straightforward.

Monique Bartlett Contributor There are hundreds of different exercises, but don’t let the list of options confuse you.

If you follow these basic eight exercises you will accomplish everything you need.

The Basic Eight hit all the major muscle groups. Together these elements give your muscles the ability to perform quickly and efficiently, while also preventing the loss of muscle mass that occurs naturally through aging. For anyone trying to lose weight or maintain weight loss, strength training is a must. Nothing does a better job of reshaping your body and helping to keep your metabolism in high gear.

1. Squats: Upper legs (Quadriceps and hamstrings) 2. Lunges: Upper and lower legs (Quadriceps, hamstrings and calves) 3. Chest Press: (Chest and back of upper arms (triceps) 4. Shoulder Press: (Shoulder muscles) 5. Butterfly: (Upper back muscles - trapezius and latissimus dorsi) 6. Dumbbell Fly: (Chest muscles) 7. Biceps Curl: (Upper arms - biceps) 8. Triceps Extension: (Backs of the arms triceps)

Beets and Betalains Trish Browning Contributor Beets were never one of those vegetables on the top of my list of vegetables to consume. But after learning about a beet supplement I wish I had started to consume this particular vegetable earlier. Beets are one of the healthiest vegetables. Unfortunately they are not one of the tastiest.

You might consider forgetting about the taste if you understood the values this particular vegetable has to offer. Or if you are anything like me and want to get the benefit of betalains without the root beet taste you can go for a supplement.

You can perform all Basic Eight moves with dumbbells, although if you belong to a well-equipped gym, all of the moves except squats can be done on a weight machine.

Whether you use dumbbells or a weight machine, keep in mind that the weight needs to be heavy enough to fatigue your muscles after 8 to 10 reps.

If you’re not sure of the form of these exercises use caution. It’s always a good idea when you first start exercising or have a new routine to get the advice of a personal trainer to help you get you started.

Here’s a list to follow for both beginners and advanced: • Begin with 2 or 3 sets per exercise, 10 to 12 repetitions per set, three times a week.

(Take no more than 15 to 30 seconds rest in between sets). You may find that you are unable to do 10 to 12 reps in the second set, but that’s fine. It’s means you’re working hard enough in the first set to produce

The red pigment color of beets is derived from a group of phyotonutrients known as betalains. Betalains have antioxidants, antiinflammatory and detoxifying agents that are richer in beets than other plant food.

carotene. In addition to the high betalain phytonutrient content, beets are very high in vitamin C, folate (a natural source of folic acid), manganese, magnesium, and potassium. The fiber in beets is similar to carrots and supports gastrointestinal health.

Beet betalains provide some cancer prevention capacities, particularly against colon cancer. In vitro (test tube or petri dish) lab tests have reported beet betalain suppression of human cancer cells.

When it comes to detoxing, certain enzymes in beet betalains stimulate glutathione production and connect toxins to glutathione molecules. The toxins are then neutralized and excreted harmlessly.

The anti-inflammatory aspect of betalains helps to prevent many chronic diseases and promotes cardiovascular health. Early research indicates that betalains support nerve and eye tissue better than most other anti-oxidants.

In addition Beet juice helps to stimulate liver cells cleansing and protecting bile ducts.

It also helps to relieve the kidneys of stress to help cure gout and relieve constipation.

It has been observed that betalains provide a more varied and higher antioxidant value than most other vegetables containing beta-

Beets help to cleanse the blood and create more red blood cells. They are useful for treating and curing anemia. Heavy daily beet consumption has even been used to treat leukemia and other cancers. With

changes in your muscles. As your strength improves, you’ll eventually finish all the reps.

• After about four weeks, reassess your progress. If you’re finishing all your sets easily, add another. Also check your weights. Are they heavy enough?

• Keep reassessing your progress every four to six weeks and when you’re ready for a new challenge, add another day. Your ultimate goal: 3 sets of each exercise, 10 to 12 reps, every other day.

As you advance and increase your activity level, you may want to add additional exercises to your routine.

If the Basic Eight sounds advanced, don’t let it fool you. They’re simple to perform and best of all they don’t’ take much time.

You can go through the Basic Eight in about 20 minutes. That’s little time to invest for what will be a huge pay off.

normal consumption, one can benefit from beets’ anti-carcinogenic properties.

Red beets and their leaves are a high source of folate, which is the natural base of folic acid. Folate helps build tissue and red blood cells. It is also beneficial for pregnant woman to use folate rather than folic acid that is synthetic.

Beets contain a large amount of lutein and zeaxanthin, both of which help prevent or may even cure macular degeneration and other age related eye issues.

Beets help to lower blood pressure, maintain blood vessel elasticity, and even help eliminate varicose veins.

Beets can be so detoxifying that if you are in a toxic condition you may experience Herxheimer events (healing crisis) such as headaches and fatigue.

Knowing what this vegetable can do for the body you should consider making them a part of your diet.

PAGE 12 - WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Immigration Matters: Why am I being detained? five hours at the airport only to learn that Leah was being detained for immigration reasons.

Marva Kollar Contributor Leah, a foreign national was recently granted a temporary resident visa (TRV) by the local Canadian Embassy. She was comfortable with the services of her travel agent who prepared and submitted the TRV application, airline ticket and moreover, she did not have to attend a TRV interview.

After arriving in Canada, Leah felt overwhelmed with being interviewed by Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers at the port of entry. Leah’s family members in Toronto waited anxiously for

Leah appears pregnant, exhausted and does not understand why she is being detained and is being transferred to a minimum-security Immigration Holding Centre (IHC).

Leah’s family members are tightly knitted.

They knew that Leah had never been in trouble with the law. Leah’s passport and TRV are valid and is quite sufficient to travel to Canada. Leah’s family contacted an Authorized Representative in Toronto who accompanied them to IHC. The Authorized Representative advised Leah of her right to be represented by counsel as well as to have an independent hearing to review the reasons for her detention.

The CBSA officer in charge of Leah’s case compiled a Report and notified the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB). A Detention Review was scheduled for two days later. Their Authorized Representative obtained Leah’s immigration file.

Leah’s family arranged a guarantor, also called a bondsperson.

The 48-hour Detention Review was held at the IHC by videoconference with the Minister’s counsel in Montreal. Leah’s representative requested an Interpreter and a Diplomat representing her country in Canada.

The Minister’s counsel explained why he believed Leah should be detained. The reasons stated include: a) Leah may be a flight risk and may not appear for an immigration examination or hearing; b) she will not leave the country when ordered to do so; and c) she maybe a danger to the public, etcetera. and pleased to have his own place and to be able to make his own choices. ~ Suzie

Dear Suzie, My son is 24 years old, lives at home and cannot keep a job. Over the last few years he keeps loosing his job after a few weeks or a few months. He is now inviting his female friend to come over to the house without our permission. He is rude to my self and husband and we cannot seem to get through to him. All we want is for him to get his life on track, find a job and act like a responsible adult. We tried to talk to him and he gets defensive and says nasty things to us.

Please offer your advice. ~ Concerned Mom Dear Concerned Mom, My first thoughts on reading your letter are whether or not you have an agreement with your son with respect to him living with you; what he is responsible for such as paying you a regular rent; being responsible for the purchase of his own food and toiletries; visitors.

It would appear that you do not have such an agreement. It is always difficult for parents who want to help their children in life by allowing them to continue to live at home.

You and your husband must remember, however, that part of being a good parent is to teach and guide our children to become independent, responsible adults who are able to make good choices in life. Now is the time for action, otherwise you and your husband will continue to suffer and your son will not improve, but continue to take advan-

tage of your generosity and kindness. Prepare a written rental agreement setting out what your son is responsible for paying on a monthly/weekly basis and what the rules and regulation are for your home. If he will not discuss the agreement or its contents you must give it to him, or place it under his door with a cover letter stating that if he has not signed the agreement on or before (a date of your choosing - give him seven (7) days) then you will understand that he has no interest in entering into the agreement with you, which leaves you with no alternative but to give him one (one) month’s notice of termination of occupancy. That if his possessions are not moved out of your home on the last day of the month you are entitled to place them at the end of the driveway/sidewalk for his pick up. Please remember that this is your home; you have worked hard for years to have and maintain this home. You have the right to quiet enjoyment of your own home.

If you do not assert your own rights and allow him to walk all over you your life will be miserable. At 24 years of age your son is an adult. As an adult he has responsibilities and must live up to them. If he can’t do this then he has to be forced into growing up and learning to become independent. Yes, it is tough love. Your son clearly has no respect for you or your husband from the way you have described his behavior; his respect will not improve if you do not assert yourselves and stand up for what is to happen in your own home. This is your one opportunity.

Take the necessary action and do not give in, or you will have lost everything forever. I wish you luck. In a year he will be proud of

Dear Suzie I was shopping in a large superstore the other day with my children, aged six and fifteen months. As I was waiting to pay my six year old began demanding that I buy him candy.

I refused. I felt everyone was watching me as my eldest began to shout and scream and throw a tantrum on the floor. He had been a real problem going around the store from the beginning wanting everything he could touch. The whole process was a nightmare.

I was exhausted by the time I paid at the cash desk and got out of the store. When I was unpacking my shopping and taking my youngest out of the store I found that he had hidden all sorts of candy and other items inside my youngest change bags and underneath where he was sitting in the stroller. I went into a panic when I found out what my eldest had done. I didn’t know what was the right thing to do, or how to do the right thing.

I put all of the items in a bag on a top shelf so that no one could get at them. I hate having stolen property in my house. More important I want my eldest to learn that you do not take items, which do not belong to you.

How can I deal with this situation? ~ Distraught

Leah’s representative argued the reasons why release should be granted. In the end, The IRB – Member, also called the Decision maker stated his decision and the reason he believes that Leah must remain in custody. A new date was scheduled for the 7-day Detention Review. She was granted bail at the 30-day Detention Review on a performance bond. The alternative is a Detention Review every 30 days thereafter.

Leah and her family now understand that the reasons for Leah’s detention were: 1) she did not disclose the fact that she was pregnant; and 2) she also failed to disclose that she was represented by the travel agent who prepared and submitted her TRV application. Leah was given an Exclusion Order for Misrepresentation in which she is banned from re-entering Canada for 2-years.

Dear Distraught, I am sure that many mothers and fathers experience this type of nightmare with their young children while shopping. The first time it happens is when you must take action. Call up the store and ask to speak to their head of security; explain to them what has happened; that you would like to return to the store with your son, the stolen items and meet with him/her so that they can speak to the child about right and wrong and potential consequences for their actions. Explain to your son what you are doing and why you are doing it. Do not make him feel bad about himself; explain that as we grow up we have lessons to learn to make us become good adults and that this is one of the things he must learn. I assure you that he will never forget this experience and he will not do it again. It is a lesson in honestly and good behavior learned just at the right time. Good luck. I remind everyone that stores do lay charges against people with children who have items hidden among, or under a baby.

The experience for the adult is dreadful and can go on for a long time. As you have been honest with the store, when you return you will find yourself treated with enhanced respect. Not many people have the courage to take the course of action I have set out.

That’s a shame, because you lose the opportunity to explain everything to the child at the time the wrongdoing happens and the opportunity for the child to learn and grow has been lost forever. ~ Suzie

Your Horoscope - May 2012 Aries Horoscope (March 21-April 20): Managing your hours and days, organizing your interactions, creating supportive assistance allows you time for what’s most important now - intelligent acquisition of new knowledge. This knowledge will become your future tool for success and provide you with the ability to master your goals. Don’t forget service to self and others. That’s the foundation.

Taurus Horoscope (April 21-May 21): You must begin to concentrate on your creative self identity. You also need some celebrations, more social interaction, leisure,entertainment, and a party .

The fun in your life hasn’t seen the light of day in many years now it’s forgotten you exist. Fun and play actually assist in bringing our talents forth. Talents are Soul gifts. What are yours again?

Gemini Horoscope (May 23-June 20): The New Moon provides new thought processes concerning home, dwellings, and what brings nurturance to you. There has been confusion of late about these issues. You seek community yet it is unmanifested. You seek a new state of spiritual cohesion yet the field isn’t prepared yet.

Ask at New Moon time for the next step in your identification.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21-July 20): You seek news of everything from everywhere. From neighbors, previous classmates, the mediaall having to do with community. One short tip. Don’t gossip. Just exchange information and retreat from the temptation to speak ill of others. You will gather and organize all information received and create a world order in your mind. Take in some historical landmarks.

Leo Horoscope (July 21-Aug. 22): Notice that your personal values are very prominent and are making decisions that will affect your future. It’s important to be aware of this. Perhaps you can review what your values are and evaluate if they are concurrent with your needs. Are they well thought out? Do they still serve you?

Our values either serve our self esteem or lessen it. Which is which for you?

Virgo Horoscope (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Everything becomes new, if you yield to this. From your appearance to intelligence to your role in the world which means your social identity. It is important that our actions reflect who we are internally. If this is not so, then others experience us with cognitive dissonance. See

that a union occurs between inner and outer selves for the sake of synthesis.

Libra Horoscope (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Your life is rather hidden these day and we continue to search for you but you’re nowhere to be found. A deep psychological change has caught you unawares. Important insights occur.

Dreams are your guides. Therapy for some is good. For others the best medicine is serving those in need. An extraordinary housecleaning is in order, too.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): What groups in the world do you admire?

What organizations have the values you hope to have? What church, team, club, league or fraternity calls to you? What community (town, village, intentional) speaks your language? Investigate this. It’s your future. You’re not to be a loner anymore.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov. 22-Dec. 20): Something true to your deepest ambitions may just come calling at your door.

Most times only elephants sail into our living rooms and roost there much to our dismay. But things are shifting a bit and a communication quite desirous may knock gently. Watch and wait and listen. And write.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec. 21-Jan. 20): You distinguish the truth about yourself as separate from other people’s truths (about you). This is quite important but know that as others won’t recognize this truth you’ll have to all by yourself. A regeneration is occurring about who you are, why, how, where, and possibly when. Move that is. Seek assistance from others. Then be on the move.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan. 21-Feb. 18): There may be an examination of past and present wounds. They will harbor within till , unable to hold them any longer, you seek others who will listen compassionately. As you feel yourself and realities dissolving, new and better forms of self and resources emerge.

Sensitivity is good. It’s information.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb. 18-March 20): Energy for things new, uncluttered, organized, categorized, detailed, and thus in harmony occur to you in leaps and bounds because it’s time for expansion on every level of your life. You have a fine eye for inner detail. This leads to artistic endeavors. Capture them, bring them into form for beauty becomes you.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN - PAGE 13

PAGE 14 - WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Class Action Lawsuit Launched Against 407 ETR for $25 Million Tammy Flores Contributor

“Stop the 407 ETR’s Abuse of Power” has great news. We are one step closer to holding the 407 ETR accountable for the way they have been treating Ontarian’s. A Class Action lawsuit has been launched against the 407 ETR for $25,000,000.00. To quote the lawyers from Scarfone Hawkins’ press release, this lawsuit is “on behalf of all persons who incurred tolls and/or additional charges to 407 ETR who subsequently filed an assignment in bankruptcy and/or a proposal or consumer proposal under the BIA, and who later paid those tolls and/or additional charges to 407 ETR... the Statement of Claim alleges that 407 ETR unlawfully uses its Vehicle Permit renewal denial remedy to coerce

payment of claims provable in bankruptcy which are subject to a Stay of Proceedings or were otherwise compromised and/or released by operation of the BIA.” We are hopeful this will open the door for the rest of us who have been victimized by the 407 ETR’s misuse of the Plate Denial process.

I can personally attest to the fact that the 407 ETR has been given plenty of opportunity to sit down with us to make matters right, but their arrogance got in the way. The 407 ETR has convinced themselves they are right even stating that they will defend themselves against this action because there are “cases” that support them. These so-called “cases” they claimed supports them are under appeal by the Superintendent for Bankruptcy and this was the notice I put out to our group: Mathew David Moore vrs. @407_ETR File #C54560 A hearing will take place in the Court of Appeal May 16th, 2012 Osgood Hall Court Room #2

130 Queen Street West I am encouraging a good turn out in support of this case. The first 30 people to arrive will receive a free T Shirt. The 407 ETR needs to be put on notice that the public is watching.

We will update with more details as the date gets closer on our facebook group “Stop the 407 ETR’s Abuse of Power” and on our website 407etr-abuseofpower.com. I hope some of you can take the time to support this case.

We want to know the social/economic impact driving on this highway has had on you. Please write to Stop the 407 ETR’s Abuse of Power, 75 Bayly Street, PO Box 14524, Ajax, Ontario, L1S 7K7 or email us at 407AbuseofPower@hotmail.ca You can also find us at www.407etr-abuseofpower. com If you would like to keep up to date with what’s happening on a daily basis, please join our Facebook group “Stop the 407 ETR’s Abuse of Power” or you can follow us on Twitter @407AbuseofPower.

Boys’ night out Sue Von Achten Contributor Single guys focus on sex, protection, hierarchy and turf circuits. They want sex first. A relationship may follow. Testosterone is high and their libido is raging. Understand this first. A single male operates on these principles. Everything they do derives from these basic objectives.

There are three types of guys who go out as a group together; the single guy; the guy with a girlfriend and the guy who has just started a relationship.

When you put a bunch of guys together, watch out. They are on a crusade. Boys on a night out are in caveman mode, but there are no moose to kill, no enemies to spear, and no woman to beat over the head, drag home and mate with.

Get this and you understand boys, guys, or any male under twenty-five.

Moving forward to the twenty-first century, getting ready to hit the town doesn’t take brothers too much time. The main focus is on the plan. A guys’ night out needs to flow; it’s not about whom they are going to see; it’s about where they are going to be and who is going to be there. Different spots get going at different times and the guys need to time it just right to hit the spot at the right moment.

They will start off the night beating some juice at a “sausage party” and then travel.

Then the boys’ night out crew will move to get some “eye candy.” A boys’ night out needs something good to look at. This night out is not about cheating. The boys want to laugh at girls, the way they dress, the ones who think they are “all that.” They want to cut them up.

It’s entertainment; it’s part of the fun. And the music and jive must feel good.

Much depends on the number of guys out together and the type of guys chilling’, but the objective is still the same; fun.

The guys will assess the opposition quickly, checking out who is moving with whom; they will convey to the crowd “don’t mess with us;” they will check out the likelihood of conflict and mentally prepare. Next they eye the females; the best looking, the curvaceous and fertile females. Are they attached either to one guy, or part of another group of brothers or sisters? All-important details.

Guys can appear to take no interest in anyone other than their buddies in the group; they will laugh and joke, be stupid and appear to be having fun ignoring everyone else. Don’t be fooled. They are not missing a move. They see you; the way you hold your head; they way your eyes sparkle when you laugh; how you run your fingers through your hair; your tight shirt; the line of your breasts and those leg hugging pants which show your buns to full advantage.

From the moment they notice you they would much rather be talking to you than listening to their buddy’s latest football story. Inside they are saying to themselves, “Give us a sign that it’s safe for us to walk over to you, better still walk over to me.”

Remember no matter how tough or experienced a guy is, when he tries to read signals he will often get mixed up. Men love women, but they love women even more when they strike first. It takes the pressure from them trying to work out if they have read the signs correctly and it’s impressive to a guy when a woman does something that they, themselves, are unable to do. Often a guy who has watched all night, discussed what to do with his buddies and watched and check out the vibes will often end up going home alone because he spent so much time working up to his big moment that he missed it.

There are, of course, the guys who go out with the single objective of breaking hearts. These are the guys who are getting even with the girls who have used, abused and lead them on in the past. It is not a negative pastime for these guys; they go out to have fun and make a point, “you, lady, think you are in control of us and can get what you want out of us, but look here, we got you back!”

How does this work? First, they operate in pairs or more. Smartly and sharply dressed they stroll up to you and your girls in the bar; tell you that you look hot; ask you questions which would indicate to you that they were interested; they buy you drinks of your choice; treat you well and with respect. This guy is cool, you think. Then, out of the blue when you are hooked and hot to trot to get in a cab to go home with them, the guys say “good night ladies, get home safe,” and they are gone.

Gone to the next place they are going to hang.

Guys need to unwind; the idea behind a boys’ night out is to chill. They need the company of their fellow men; they need to be able to be themselves; free themselves from sanity; go wild and be stupid, if they feel like it. Once in a while a guy needs to not have to worry about the consequences. They can verbally abuse those they cannot abuse in the real world. The bottom line is that a night out with the boys keeps them thinking about their problems and stresses in life. Only when brothers are amongst other brothers do they seem let go; to be who they really are. They don’t need to watch what they say; they don’t have to watch how much they drink; it doesn’t matter how much mess they make, or what they spill; they can talk dirty; exchange what they are really thinking about at that particular time. Their brothers don’t care; they are doing it too; it doesn’t matter. They are having fun.

Guys do not tell their girl where they are going. Rule number one. They don’t want to risk the chance of their girl showing her with her girls. Big no, no. There is always one of the bunches who gives in and tells his girl where he is going. He will let it slip that his woman might show up. The boys will then move on quickly to the next destination telling the guy who broke the rule that he can bounce with them and loose his phone, or stay and hang with his girl.

Guys hate it when their girls stop them from going for a boys’ night out. Women don’t seem to understand that it’s a necessity of life for a guy to bond with his guy friends. The boys

WEDNESDAY, MAY 9, 2012 - TORONTO CARIBBEAN - PAGE 15

need to talk about the women they have dated, women who make them go weak at the knees and women who make us want to hate themselves. They can’t discuss these matters with their girls standing there. Everyone needs their own space and the company of people with whom they can be just themselves.

Girls, you must know that this is one the most important times in your relationship with your man. The idea of him wanting to spend a night out with his boys instead of with you, may not sit well with you. But, if you don’t give him a hard time it is likely to benefit your relationship with him in the long run.

Yes, your man does love spending time with you, but when it’s time for him to go out with the boys to party and drink beer; he has to go.

He just wants to drink and be happy.

Women think, often, that a boys’ night out ends up, usually, with a bunch of girls and sex afterwards. The truth is that when the boys are out they stay together. It is not about cheating. If one of the boys has picked up a girl, his buddies will tease him, because a “boys night out” is what it means. Boys out together and leaving together. That includes, “no girlfriends shall come out with the boys on their night of masculine camaraderie.”

If the boys’ nights out cause your girl to have issues, then your relationship, itself, may be the problem and nothing to do with your boys’ nights out. It is likely that your girl is struggling with issues of trust and self esteem.

Girls, you are urged to understand how important it is that you allow your man to regularly go out for boys’ nights out. The best girlfriend a guy can have is one who encourages her boyfriend to spend time alone with male friends.

Guys, remember to ask yourself often if you are giving your girl the same kind of time you give your boys? In the fresh throws of a new relationship guys want to make sure their buddies know that they are not subject to “she who must be obeyed” and that they are still one of the boys. What can and sometimes does happen, though, is that they over-compensate, forgetting to give their significant other any real, or quality time. Thus, if you don’t play it right, you, sir, could be the author of your own misfortunes.

Conclusion: a boys’ night out is what it means.

Do not give the guy a hard time; don’t call him or text him when he is out; let him be with his boys. Boys, respect your ladies.

VICTORIA LONG WEEKEND

EVERY SATURDAY!