Saving Caribana 111914

CARIBBEAN C ARIBBEAN N NEWS, NEWS, EVENTS, EVENTS, HEALTH, HEALTH, LIFESTYLE LIFE ESTYLE & M MORE ORE ONLINE: TORONTOCAR ONLINE TORONTOCARIBBEAN.COM RIBBEAN COM M • T TO OA AD ADVERTISE: DV VE ERT RTIIS SE E:: 6 647-722-6298 4747 4 7-7 -72 22 2-6 -62 29 98 • V VO VOLUME OLUM LU UM ME E 3 • IISSUE SSUE SS SSUE SUE E2 20 0 • W WE WEDNESDAY, EDN DNES ESDA DA AY Y,, N Y NOVEMBER OV O VE EM MB BE ER 1 19 19TH 9T TH H2 2014 01 0 14

SAVING CARIBANA Community citizens are getting set to head to head to Photo: Mark Legendre/MK Photography

Toronto City Hall to try and bring about change

JORDAN MAXWELL/TORONTO CARIBBEAN Saving Toronto’s beloved Caribana festival and lobbying the city to allow the community to organize and operate the event will be a key focus of a November 27 meeting at City Hall.

A group of citizens from the Caribbean community and other interested stakeholders are due to meet with Joe Mihevc, councillor of Ward 21 and the city’s festival liaison, to voice their concerns about the direction the festival has gone under the Festival Management Committee (FMC) and Scotiabank.

The group, Save Toronto Carnival, organized a Facebook page and continues to gather support and momentum,

along with other stakeholders, who over the last few months, have hosted a series of meetings and discussions leading up to November 27.

Knia Singh, Chair of the Caribana Arts Group (CAG), said that he’s looking forward to hearing the community reiterate what has been a consistent position from the CAG - that Caribana belongs in the hands of its people and that the time for being shut out and vilified is over.

“We’re looking forward to hearing what the community has to say. Considering all the changes that have taken place and the festival not be held to the same standard, it’s time for us to come together

and work with the City to get it back,” he said, in an interview with Toronto Caribbean News.

With the election behind us, stability is being restored at City Hall and changes in tone have been noticed by Singh, who said that encounters and past conversations with new mayor-elect, John Tory, leads him to believe that the goal can be accomplished.

“John Tory is taking a different tone, shows understanding and knows the value of the festival. He’s about fairness and I think he understands the importance of the festival to business,” said Singh.

Continued On Page 5

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Naela Ibrahim: Helping to Optimize your Potential Naela Ibrahim is the Queen of all trades as a highly revered trainer, speaker, educator, and the founder and president of Global Image Strategies a premier image development-consulting firm that educates, empowers and coaches individuals and organizations internationally.

She is able to understand that our success is affected by changes in our mindset, which directly affects our personal performance and lives. Through Image Enhancement, Communication training & Etiquette coaching, her work results in an immediate and lasting transformations in the success of her clients.

Naela’s thorough understanding of human engineering puts her in a unique position to really understand her clients. She has a natural talent for accurately assessing non-supportive issues being faced by her clients, and gently guides them to transform various aspects of their lives; while expanding their mindset and enabling positive changes to take place with astonishing ease. Her key strength lies in helping her clients achieve internal strength, presence and

confidence through advanced mindset technologies. In addition, having lived and worked in Asia, Africa, Europe and North America, she also brings a unique international perspective and a multicultural understanding to her work.

She knows too well the challenges that a modern woman of today faces as she strives to create a beautiful balance between her home and work. “Women have the power to mold the course and future of Nations,” she says casually, “and as such are responsible for and must be equipped with practical knowledge, a high-level awareness and an open/balanced mindset!”

Naela gives back to the community by volunteering her time teaching principals of Image Development and mind set optimization through various community programs that are effective & life changing. These are often “Probono” for women’s shelters and other budget sensitive organizations.

Written By Alyssa Mahadeo

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Remembering the Jonestown tragedy 36 years later Emily Singh TC Reporter Thirty-six years ago on November 18th 1978 the Jonestown tragedy struck in Guyana, South America. On this unfortunate day in history over 900 people lost their lives in what would be remembered as the greatest number of American lives lost in a non natural disaster before the 9/11 attacks. Over 900 bodies lay lifeless on the hot dry grounds of Jonestown, Guyana as a result of a mass suicide orchestrated by leader of the Peoples Temple, Jim Jones.

Jim Jones was a man that could walk into a room and command attention.

Through giving his followers at the Peoples Temple in San Francisco the promise of helping them and others in need he was able to attract them and manipulate their minds and put them through the ultimate test of loyalty. Jones had imagined creating what was known as a “Rainbow Family” that including adopting children of various races. As a preacher he used his authoritarian position for destructive purposes and defied the trust that his followers put in him.

The events leading up to November 18th 1978 were nothing short of horrific.

Jim Jones led his followers from the Peoples Temple in San Francisco to a remote area of Guyana where he promised them paradise.

Jones’s charismatic ways and people skills helped to attract loyal followers who looked up to him as a father figure. When they arrived in Guyana in 1974 they had no idea the hardship, suffering and death sentence they were about to face. Space was limited and sleeping conditions consisted of crammed rooms and the agonizing sound of Jones’s voice over a 24/7 loudspeaker. Their days were rough and consisted of hard work in the hot sun, far from anything they could have imagined. Couples that were married were separated in different sleeping quarters once they got to Guyana because of the gender segregation that Jones had enforced.

The mental state of Jones at the time was very unstable. Excessive drug use had begun to take its toll on him and the paranoia and anxiety kicked in. Jones believed that American government officials and media outlets had set out to get him.

Panic broke out when Jones got word that the situation would be exposed and the world would come to know what

exactly he was up to. Communication between the members of the Peoples Temple in Jonestown and family members back in San Francisco, California was very limited and strained. Jones restricted letters coming in and out of the compound and would often script phone conversations between members and their families to avoid anything about their living conditions being revealed.

On November 14th 1978 Congressman Leo Ryan of California decided to pay Jonestown a visit after hearing rumors that Jones was running a cult out of Guyana. Accompanying Ryan on the trip was a crew from NBC that hoped to document what they would find.

Upon seeing the condition of the compound and life that the followers were living he offered to bring back anyone who was unhappy back to California with him. Congressman Leo Ryan was shot dead by a member of the Peoples Temple on the Port Kaituma Airstrip when boarding an Air Guyana Cessna aircraft. This event is remembered historically to this day as the only representative of the United States of America that lost their life while serving in the line of duty, Prior to the mass suicide, there were “White Nights” where Jones would announce over the infamous loudspeaker that outsiders from the U.S Intelligences services were attacking them. With his convincing charismatic ways he told his followers that they needed to commit what would be known as the “Revolutionary Act” of suicide through drinking flavour-aid laced with cyanide. “White Nights” were nothing more than practice drills to test the loyalty of his followers to verify that when he instructed them to consume the real drink of death. On November 18th 1978 approximately 909 people including children commited suicide by drinking cups of flavour aid mixed with cyanide. Babies had the lethal mixture injected into their tiny mouths from the hands of their own mothers through syringes. On that same day, Jones was found dead with a bullet wound to the head.

“We were living in Bladen Hall at the time and we didn’t even know people were living out in that area it was all jungle area. We first heard about the killings over Radio Demerara, I was 30 at the time of the massacre and had never heard of something like that before, everyone was shocked.”

Reminisced Gargeena Singh who was living in Guyana at the time of the Jonestown Massacre.

Thirty-six years later and the horrid memories still linger in the minds of the few who managed to escape the torturous grasp of Jim Jones through the dense Guyanese jungle. This is was without a doubt a tragedy that will forever be embedded in Guyanese history.

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Lobbying the Toronto City Hall for change Jordan Maxwell TC Reporter Continued From Page 1 -- It should be stated that Tory was honoured with the Harry Jerome award, one of the most prestigious in the black community, in 2011 for his work in the black community, perhaps an indication that there’s room for co-operation.

Still, time will tell. The CAG aren’t the only group speaking out about bringing Caribana back to the hands of its community.

Save Toronto Carnival and other representatives of the Caribbean community will also be looking to have their voices heard on Nov. 27.

Whether everyone in support of Caribana can come to a consensus of what specifically needs to be done and have a united voice, is another story, said Singh, who added that internal confrontation cannot be a factor in

this mission. “(There are) groups out there who have a good Facebook presence but I wish it was Save Caribana, instead of Toronto Carnival. It’s a small thing and you get what their intentions are but Caribana is what it’s called and it should stay that way.

“I want see us come together. We can’t be divided so I hope that everyone comes out and expresses the common goal and that’s to bring Caribana back (home).”

Caribana was created in 1967 by the Caribbean Cultural Committee, the original namesake of the Caribbean Arts Group (CAG) before they later changed its name in 2005.

With less than $50,000 and extreme co-operation and synergy on a grassroots level, the first event was held and continued to enjoy success over the next 45 years.

The event celebrated Caribbean culture, music, art, poetry and dance and was highly successful in the initial years, and by 2009, the festival was earning more than $400 million into Toronto’s economy, according to a Ryerson study.

The meeting takes place at Toronto City Hall from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Nov. 27.

See Save Toronto Carnival’s Facebook page for more info.

President assures the nation… Prorogation will not affect Guyanaʼs development GUYANA -- The prorogation of Parliament, a decision President Donald Ramotar took last Monday, can last for six months, at the maximum, according to the Constitution.However, the Head of State at a news conference last Friday, made it clear that during the prorogation period, the development of the country will not be held back.

“I will not hold back development of our country if we are getting good investments…

I do not know why anyone would want to stymie the development of our country if we are getting good investments; and we (the Government) would be acting perfectly legally and constitutionally by dealing with any investments that we have,” he told the media at his news conference, which was held at the Office of the President on Shiv Chanderpaul Drive.

The President’s comments follow threats by the Opposition that any agreement inked during the period of prorogation will not be honoured. However, these threats have left the Head of State unmoved.

“If we judge things (investments) by a case by case basis, and we determined that this is good for the country then we will go ahead,” Mr. Ramotar stressed.

His decision to suspend Parliament was by way of a prorogation proclamation, which essentially means that the current session is suspended up to a maximum of six months – a move that is provided for in Section 70 (1) of Guyana’s Constitution. The effect of ending a session by prorogation is to terminate business.

As a result, the Alliance for Change (AFC) no-confidence motion was not considered.

The main Opposition, A Partnership for National

Unity (APNU) had, prior to Monday, signalled its intent to support the push through of the motion.

Had it not been for the proclamation to prorogue Parliament, if the no-confidence motion was passed, Guyana would have been headed to early general elections within three months.

According to the Head of State the move to prorogation was intended to pave the way for greater dialogue among political parties, while keeping the 10th Parliament alive. However, Mr. Ramotar has made it clear that if these efforts prove futile, there will be a move to fresh general elections.

The prorogation has not had significant impact on Guyana’s ability to attract major foreign direct investments, even as the private sector and civil society, after meetings with the President, have called for dialogue among the local political parties.

As recently as last Wednesday, indications of investor confidence were clear, with two massive investments being announced – a GY$1B investment by Rubis Guyana Inc. to increase local fuel supply and a US$200M by Exxon Mobil into offshore oil exploration.

Additionally, the mid-year report on the performance of the local economy indicated that despite the challenges facing global and regional economies, as well as the new political situation locally, Guyana has been able to record a 3.2 per cent growth in the economy.

The Guyanese economy has experienced eight consecutive years of growth up to 2013 and is projected to expand by a further 5.6 per cent by the end of 2014.

- Guyana Chronicle

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At opening of new supermarket… Guyana Minister Ali challenges proprietor to stock local products GUYANA -- Real Value Supermarket, located at Lot 246 Church and Thomas Streets, Georgetown, on Saturday held the official opening ceremony which was graced by the presence of Irfaan Ali, Minister of Housing and Water and Acting Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, who endorsed the investment.

Making brief remarks, he congratulated Jason and wife, Lily Wang for their investment in Guyana’s economy.

Ali told the gathering that he does not differentiate when it comes to foreign investment, be it Chinese or any other nationality, since Guyana is a “melting pot of six ethnicities” and it is another investment for Guyana in which they will contribute to our social and economic enhancement.

He said that the opening of Real Value Supermarket goes to show that the proprietors have every confidence in Guyana’s investment climate, hence they invested in a business.

He however urged Jason Wang, the owner of the supermarket, to be a leader and add more local products to his shelves, especially those from small businesses in which natural produce can be adequately marketed.

Ali stated that with consumption, you need people and giving an example he said in St. Kitts and Nevis they depend on foreign students to sustain their consumption since their population amounts to about only 5,000 people.

He explained that they have about 2,500 foreign students on the island, and they utilise their services; and in Guyana we also

want to attract foreign universities.

Ali said we will in a few years embark on a similar innovation to increase our consumption and at the same time enhance occupancy, tourism and investment.

He stated that with the launching of newer airlines locally we have seen a growth in tourism by 350% since Copa Airlines came here and it is all part of building an infrastructure in transforming our society for an advanced economy.

The minister said that Real Value Supermarket is a bit more than a regular supermarket since during his pre-tour visit he saw it as an integrated shopping experience, noting that the space and layout are of inter-

national standards.

Ali told the gathering last evening that there is also more good news for Guyana, since one of the world’s leading food chains has indicated its interest in setting up shop here ; and within the last five days he was also in discussion with a major international bank that has also showed interest in Guyana.

In this light, he urged all to keep a positive outlook on businesses so we can still attract international investment.

Real Value Supermarket is housed in a three-storey concrete building with SurePay and MoneyGram and soon they will have German’s Restaurant added. The business has 25 local and five international employees.

In brief remarks, China’s Ambassador, Zhang Limin said he was very pleased that such a young Jason Wang has worked so hard to achieve a business of that magnitude and encouraged members of the Chinese business community to continue to abide with the rules and laws of Guyana.

He added that it is their wish to continue to partner in business and forge closer ties between Guyana and China and was very happy with Jason Wang’s achievement.

Also making brief remarks was Ramesh Persaud, President of the Private Sector Commission,who said the investment signals investor confidence in entrepreneurship, which takes effort, because the market will not wait and that bold step was taken by Jason Wang.

He stated that with the opening of the new supermarket the Private Sector Commission stands behind the investment and the Wangs have their support once they remain in compliance with our laws and expressed congratulation to the proprietors.

For his part,proprietor Jason Wang said he is hoping for continued support so his business could grow and at the same time make a contribution to the local economy and to the society.

The opening saw Chinese drumming and the traditional Chinese dragon dance after which there was the cutting of the ribbon signalling the official opening of the business

by Minister Irfaan Ali, China’s Ambassador Zhang Limin and others.

- Guyana Chronicle

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

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Labourites fed up with Jamaicaʼs Government JAMAICA -- Supporters turned out in large numbers to the Jamaica Labour Party’s (JLP’s) 71st Annual Conference yesterday and, as is customary, they were critical of the Government.

Omar Oliver, a 22-year-old, said his faith in the JLP stems from the party’s ability to stabilise the dollar when they were in power from 2007 to 2012.

“At that time, they were able to grow the economy and we were in poverty but we weren’t suffering as much as we are now. They did it once, and they can do it again,” Oliver told the Jamaica Observer outside the National Arena in Kingston.

Patrice Simon Clarke, 31, said her presence was not about being a diehard supporter. Rather, it was about judging both the JLP and the ruling People’s National Party (PNP) and making a rational decision on whom to support.

“I am fed up with the current Government. I prefer to be objective, see what both parties are doing and then decide. It’s sad when you see the Government telling you to cut back, but they are spending money carelessly,” she said.

According to Simon Clarke, she was among the many Jamaicans who supported Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller based on her gender. “I said give woman a chance, and it didn’t work.

I don’t see her much, and when I do see

her she’s arguing,” Simon Clarke said.

Everton Wilburgh said he was tired of being deceived by the PNP. “The current Government is deceptive. They say they love the poor, but in my 43 years on earth I’ve never seen Jamaica in such a state of poverty,” he said.

He called for the Government to answer to the people of Jamaica who, he said, were led astray by what he described as false promises.

However, Michael Walker argued that the only people who can be deceived are those who don’t understand how taxes work.

“If more people had a job, they wouldn’t be taken for fools. If you’re not working you really won’t understand how tax works and how expenses are.

You can argue that you are not getting anything, but when you pay tax and don’t see the returns, then you really know what you’re up against,” Walker said.

Forty-year-old Anthony Boswell, who had a steering wheel hanging from his neck and a motor vehicle licence plate attached to his back, said the items represented the broken vehicle being driven by the current Government. What he really wanted to hear, he said, were new ideas about how the economy can be brought from its current poor state.

“Things not good. I want to hear

and see new ways in which we can get the country moving again. Once the party focuses and doesn’t pay attention to the other side, then we can not only win the next elections, but we can grow the economy,” he said.

As is customary at party conferences, people appeared in outlandish outfits. Little was left to the imagination, as some women wore only mesh suits and stockings, brassieres, short shorts, leggings, crop tops or blouses which they altered to their liking.

Amidst the excitement outside the arena bikers performed stunts along the thoroughfare, while young women dressed in white stockings and green miniskirts cheered.

The arena, which can accommodate 6,000 people, was not filled to capacity, as some Labourites were prevented from entering. However, on the outside, most supporters gathered near a speaker and listened to speeches being delivered inside, Men walking with marijuana

stalks and tobacco leaves shouted “Hot grabba!” [tobacco leaves] “$50 bag!” [ganja] despite the presence of the police.

Inspector Leslie Leckie said the behaviour of the supporters was normal for a political conference.

“This is expected at these events.

It is a highly sensitive event. The police are doing their best to remain firm. So far, we haven’t had any major disturbances,” Leckie said.

However, shortly after he spoke to the Observer, the VIP point of entry had to be closed as supporters heckled a policeman and pushed past him into the area.

At another end of the arena a security guard was pushed to the ground by supporters eager to enter the building. This resulted in the VIP gate being closed.

In an apparent attempt to calm the angry supporters, a few councillors handed out cash, much to the disappointment of those who left without a cent.

- Jamaica Observer

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Bahamians in Atlanta remember plane crash victims ATLANTA -- With a Bahamian flag flying at half mast outside the Bahamas Consul General’s Atlanta residence, those who lost loved ones in the November 9, 2014 plane crashed gathered to pay their respects and pledge to carry on their legacy. Among them were relatives of the crash victims who reside in Atlanta.

Bahamas Consul General to Atlanta Randy E. Rolle, shared his encounter with Dr. Myles Munroe and his wife Ruth Ann who called upon his office for assistance, as well as his memories of the Parks family.

The internationally revered author, evangelist and leader had stopped in because they needed more spaces in their passports before they journeyed on to Africa.

“I had offered to have them come to the residence if they missed their flight,” said Rolle. “It was a brief moment but a poignant moment for me, to sit with Dr. Myles Munroe, and in that space of time, he encouraged me, especially in my position as the representative of The Bahamas in this area. I was honored because he was an influential leader and I looked forward to working with him.

Since the tragedy, our office has received many calls, cards and flowers from so many here in Atlanta who felt a personal connection to him just by simply being exposed to his principles via television or books. It’s not just us Bahamians mourning but Atlanta, and the rest of the world is mourning with us.”

Rolle also shared memories of his moments with Radel Parks, who was to be collaborating with his office on multiple film and entertainment projects in the near future.

“Radel was highly recommended to me as a knowledgeable source in the entertainment industry,” said Rolle. “She was a student but I was so impressed with her portfolio, I invited her along with my team and Marion Bethel of ‘Womanish Ways’ to meet producer Roger Bobb who was known as Tyler Perry’s right hand man for years. We toured the studios and she kept expressing how much she wished her twin sister would have been able to experience it with her. She also gave some of her work to Roger and he invited her to let him know when she was ready to come to the studio. She made such an impression that Roger said he plans to

honor her in some way when he shoots in The Bahamas.”

“At first Lavard was just trying to figure out why I was so interested in helping his wife by having her join me to various entertainment industry events including the Bronze Lens Awards,” recalled Rolle.

“That said so much about the love they had for each other, but we spoke man to man and became so cordial afterwards that I told him if ever Radel returned to Atlanta to continue her studies, the three of them – their son included - were welcome to come and stay here at the residence so that would be a burdened lifted off them.”

Monique Vanderpool, Deputy Consul General to Atlanta spoke about how she and Mrs. Parks had an instant connection and how she was so humbled when she first met Dr. Munroe in Washington, D.C. during a function.

“I was amazed at how so many people loved, respected and looked up to him, a son of our Bahamian soil,” she recalled saying how in awe she was of Dr. Munroe.

“As for Radel, I can say that she left an indelible mark on my life and those who had the opportunity to know her. Her name Radel means “great advisor” and I am sure she advised so many while here on earth, especially in her role as a youth minister.”

Mrs. Parks’ student advisor Chris Stevens from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) spoke about how he was impacted by her in just one meeting, while Tesia Moss paid tribute to her friends with a violin selection. Robert Pinder, Bahamas Cultural Affairs and Student Relations Officer sang a song in honor of those aboard the fatal flight.

“America had its 9/11 and we in the Bahamas now have our 11/9,” said Melissa Bevans who led the moment of silence before calling off the names of those who perished, adding the name Baby Parks to the list, acknowledging the Parks’ unborn child due to arrive in April 2015.

Stefan Moss recalled working with Mr. Parks as an artist and reminded attendees of the impact Manifest had on Bahamian music. In his uplifting tribute, Moss described how he was influenced greatly by Pastor

Richard Pinder, Dr. Myles Munroe, and new senior pastor Dr. Dave Burrows, noting that his family joined the church in the 1980s. In fact, he attended the anniversary service for Dr. Dave and Pastor Angie Burrows just a week before the tragedy.

“They all fulfilled their purpose on this earth,” Moss reminded everyone. “I can guarantee you, everyone on that plane was living in their purpose. So my charge to you is to discover your life’s purpose. Discover what gives you meaning and to pursue it.”

“This was just going to be two or three of us gathered who knew the Parks family,” explained Arthia Nixon who worked closely with the Parks family as a publicist and on Manifest’s music label since their late teens. “But this wasn’t just our loss and as soon as the suggestion came up, the Consul General immediately offered his home for an intimate gathering. It’s interesting because instead of planning their promotion for the workshop Radel planned with the Consulate Office and the book and album Lavard was working on, this week was spent planning their memorial.”

Overcome with emotion, Lincoln Parks allowed his wife Janice to speak on his behalf. His brother’s young family had visited his south Atlanta home several times.

“We see how much they meant to all of you and we are so touched,” said Janice Parks. “We wish to thank you for everything, organizing this and coming together with us.”

Before closing, Janice Parks presented a copy of her brother-in-law’s album to the Consul General as a token of appreciation on behalf of their family. The Consul General in turn presented the Parks family with a photo surrounded by written condolences of the Bahamians in Atlanta as a keepsake. The poster board, the couple said, would be taken with them to The Bahamas and be on display at the Parks’ funeral.

Immediately following the remembrance ceremony, attendees fellowshipped to the soundtrack of Manifest’s HISLife HISMic album. Consul General Rolle stated that he has intentions to attend the Parks family funeral, set for late November.

PNM rolls out 2015 governance plan TRINIDAD -- The People’s National Movement (PNM) will embark on constitution reform, create a revenue authority for greater efficiency in tax collection and rehaul the social welfare system to cut down on state dependency immediately upon assuming office in 2015. Tobago will also be granted internal self governance, there will be an abolition of appeals to the Privy Council, the institution of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) as the final court of appeal and investment in the development of the city of Port-of-Spain.

These are some of the plans contained in the PNM’s Vision 2030 policy document and in a National Election Contract disclosed by Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley at the party’s 45th annual convention at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Portof-Spain, yesterday. Rowley announced the plans in the party’s policy document, “The Road Ahead to 2030, Building a Nation, Together.” He said while the PNM’s position remains that the 1976 Republican Constitution has served T&T well, reform may be required. “We will embark on that process immediately on getting into office so that there is enough time for consultation, analysis and debate to take place before the reforms go to Parliament.”

Areas of Constitution reform will include: • Internal Self Government for Tobago and the nature of the unitary state of T&T. • Abolition of appeals to the Privy Council and instituting the CCJ as our final appellate court • The role and functions of the service commissions • Appointment of a commissioner of police • The role and functions of the Salaries Review Commission • The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the exercise of prosecutorial authority in relation to white collar crime • Electoral system reform • Clarification of the role and powers of the President.

Rowley said among the challenges the PNM will face is the issue of state dependency by “millionaire and scrunter” alike. He said a raft of welfare support and other programmes resulting from oil revenues had engendered the “deep underbelly of chronic dependency” seen today in particular sections of the society. “Too many people, from millionaire to scrunter, have become entirely dependent on the state,” he said. “In fact we now have

some CEPEP contracts which have been captured by businessmen who obtain the contracts and make considerable profit from them while providing little or no training or improvements for workers nor any migrating of their companies from the programme.

“If, and I daresay when oil prices and energy sector revenues collapse, we will not be able to maintain these expenditures and the social consequences might be dire.”

A Rowley-led government will create a tax authority to maximise revenue collection, he said. And while the PNM supports the development of different regions in T&T, the capital city must be treated like a capital city. “While we will support and encourage planned regional development in Trinidad and in Tobago, as well as the sensible decentralisation of government services, we will continue to invest in the development of the capital city of Port-of-Spain,” he said, noting the People’s Partnership Government is, at present, spending billions to upgrade Chaguanas to city status. Rowley said crime was a challenge the PNM will also have to face, especially murders. “The response here is to train and sustain, at all levels from parent to commissioner,” he said.

- Trinidad Guardian

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Not even Kim Kardashianʼs bare butt could beat Shurwayne this week Aba Luke Entertainment While the EDM sound that’s been resonating out of T&T in recent time may be doing the genre good overseas, truth of the matter is, there remain many in the soca loving isle of Carnival and parts in the region, who yearn for that sweet, melodious accent of the genre that honours its predecessor, Calypso. The storytelling has been traded in these days, for the beat of a tough sounding drum and less percussions. Nevertheless, we here at EBUZZ support the growth of the genre regardless of what form it takes- as long as it remains “SOCA. Now, while the world at large

may have been focused on Kim Kardashian’s bare backside on the cover of the Paper Magazine Sunday, we were more excited about something we heard on YouTube- something fresh yet so old, something that’s guaranteed to bridge the gap between youths and the young at heart at fetes during Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival next year.

Shurwayne Winchester’s been delivering over the years, but to many DJs and rulers of the airwaves, his singles just weren’t enough to grant him a place among the heavy hitters of carnivals of recent years. Seems like the Tobago boy has been doing his homework though. He obviously realised that as a groovy soca man, he had to link up with De Red Boyz out of Barbados and he had to bring back that percussion and live sound that was re-introduced to the soca arena by Farmer Nappy in 2014. His new track, ‘Shake It’ is a hit! The song plays on the emotions of true Caribbean people, speaking of traditional food and

seasonings would you believe?… and inviting women to shake it, no doubt!

Shurwayne’s got one in the bag… or two for that matter, since his first track, ‘We Pumpin’ has been pumping across the airwaves.

Now, remember this is a man of experience, having copped several Power, Groovy and Road March titles over the years. Keep an eye on him.. you never know, he may be the upset in a soca world where Machel Montano reigns as king and Bunji Garlin, the Dark Knight.

- Et-Cet-Era Buzz

Fay-Ann Lyons sings again- Sets pandemonium in motion for C2K15 Aba Luke Entertainment Raze. Simple yet effective. Things are about to seem pretty surreal soon and when it happens, remember we called

dibs. On her birthday, the woman who has been crowned Groovy, Power and Road March champ- all in one year, released what will by no stretch of the imagination, be a hit, ahead of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival 2015 season. In fact, so powerful is the energy in the new track that fans are calling it poetic.

Lyons-Alvarez has been known to leave tongues talking and even with a hairstyle that has come under much scrutiny, Soca’s baddest b*tch as many may think of her, has proven in one single release that she’s never out of the game.

Fay-Ann was signed to VP Records just after her husband, Bunji Garlin was signed to the music label last year. Since that time, she’s appeared on BET’s 106th and Park twice at her husband’s side, however on the second appearance- in the prelude to Labour Day celebrations in the Big Apple, Fay-Ann showed her strength musically, to the world. This release, penned by the artiste herself and produced by Stadic Studios with additional production by LAZABeam, is undoubtedly the exclamation mark on a sentence that’s been waiting

to be punctuated.

Meanwhile, Bunji Garlin seems to be very proud of his wife’s release.

He’s been touting the single heavily around Instagram, in one post telling fans, “Let this rhythm take you on an undulating journey of powers. Climbing higher and higher until it’s as a turbulent waterfall; destructive yet beautiful. All hands in the air, release your energies!

Raze.”

- Et-Cet-Era Buzz

14 Wednesday, November 19, 2014

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

T&T-born artiste Renaud wins award in Australia AUSTRALIA -- Trinidad-born artiste Errol Renaud was honoured in Australia with the Outstanding Contribution To The Entertainment Industry Achievement Award 2014 on November 7. The award is given by Celebration of African Australians Inc and the presentation ceremony was held at Sydney’s Parliament House, in New South Wales.

Renaud said: “African Australians are honoured for their contribution in various fields to Australia.

We have iconic African Australians in sports, medicine, law and entertainment.

Several others are captains of industry, entrepreneurs and celebrities. In addition, many serve the government and the community in various capacities. “The aim of Celebration of African Australians Inc (Celebrate) is to celebrate, appreciate and showcase the contributions of African Australians to our collective growth and prosperity. This is a flowon from the United Nation’s proclamation of 2011 as the International Year for People of African Descent.” “In New South Wales, several African Australian legends, superstars and icons will be honoured by Celebrate this year. In addition to honorariums, Celebrate will also showcase the luminaries on its Web site and its sub-domains.”

Renaud is renowned as a pioneer of Caribbean music in the Australian, Asian and Pacific regions. He initially went to Australia with Amral Trinidad Cavaliers during their world tour more than 34 years ago. Renaud has performed in more than 25 different countries in the Caribbean, Australia, Europe, North America, the Middle East, Asia, the Pacific, including places like Canada, Germany, India, Japan, Egypt, China, and Cuba for the Festival del Caribe (festival of

fire).

Renaud has released six CDs, plus two singles. His new and seventh CD is due for release in December 2014. He is currently based in Sydney, Australia playing gigs and touring with his band Caribbean Soul. Among the 100 most-influential African Australians to receive honorariums are living legends, superstars and celebrities, icons, including but not limited to sporting heroes, outstanding community leaders and members, leaders of industry and entrepreneurs, professionals, academics and stalwart scientists.

Renaud said that among the objectives of Celebrate are to honour, recognise and celebrate the contributions of Africans to all spheres of the Australian society, including but not limited to: social, economic, political, and community engagements; to establish honorarium and present awards to distinguished, influential and outstanding African Australians; to acquire properties for the purpose of establishing community development centres, social or business bureaus for purposes that supports the objectives of the association; to organise educational, media and community development projects; to organise exchange programmes for cultural, business, tourism and educational exchange between Australia and Africa; to facilitate training, capacity building and empowerment projects for Africans and African-Australians; and, to collaborate with businesses, professionals, government and non-governmental organisations in order to achieve these objectives.

- Trinidad Guardian

Mohammed slams 65 in trial draw ZIMBABWE -- Police are warning their local dancehall artistes that if they engage in violence, they will feel the full force of the law.

The warning came about as a result of an onstage altercation between Zimbabwe dancehall acts Soul Jah Love and Seh Calaz on stage during at Dancehall Gig-Sting 2014 at the Harare City Sports Centre, recently.

According to The Herald, police spokesperson Chief Superintendent Paul Nyathi appealed to musicians to be mature in their conduct.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police

would like to warn dancehall artistes against agitating for violence as shown by the two artistes, who even tried to fight while being interviewed by a local radio station,” Nyathi was quoted as saying.

“Any artiste who tries to engage in any acts of violence will be severely dealt with, in terms of the country’s laws,” he continued.

Media reports claim that the onstage fracas ignited several skirmishes in the audience. No one died in the incident.

- Jamaica Observer

16 Wednesday, November 19, 2014

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Jacobs 7-wicket haul pilots Jamaica Franchise to victory JAMAICA -- An impressive seven-wicket

haul by leg-spinner Damion Jacobs piloted Jamaica Franchise Team to an intriguing 13run victory over Windward Island Volcanoes on day three of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Professional Cricket League (PCL) Four-Day Tournament at Sabina Park Sunday.

In a game that seemed all but over for the Jamaicans, Jacobs stepped up big to grab his second best career figures of seven for 72 from 29.2 overs, which included eight maidens to give the host their first victory of the 10-round long tournament.

The Jamaicans, resuming their second innings from an overnight score of 147 for nine, were eventually dismissed early for 162.

The Windwards were very comfortable in their second innings heading into the luncheon interval as Devon Smith (74) and Tyrone Theophille (40) took them to the break at 88 without loss, chasing a victory target of 261.

However, the Jamaicans got the breakthrough when Theophille was brilliantly caught at mid-off by David Bernard Jr to give Jacobs his first scalp. The game was levelled heading into the evening session as the Windwards lost their next five wickets for 101 runs and slumped to 178 for six.

A stubborn 65-run seventh-wicket stand between captain Liam Sebastian (24) and Alston Bobb (39) swung the game back in their favour and frustrated the Jamaican bowlers.

But Jacobs came up big once more when he trapped Sebastian in front, and that turned out

to be the game changer as the Jamaicans surged to victory by grabbing the last three Windward wickets for just four runs.

Nikita Miller, two for 21, and Bernard Jr, one for 20, were the other wicket takers.

Bobb was named Man of the Match for his overall figures of 11 wickets for 93, followed up by a total of 75 runs in both innings with the bat.

Jamaica’s coach Junior Bennett gave credit to the team for an expert bowling performance, but expressed disappointment with the batting.

“It was a very good game of cricket, I did not bat well in both innings and that is the reason why it came down to this. But credit to the Windward Islands team, I thought they played a very good game of cricket, but overall our bowling unit stuck to the task and got the job done,” he said.

Meanwhile, Liam Sebastian expressed disappointment with his team’s performance.

“Obviously (I am) disappointed to lose the game, looking back at it we [are] disappointed with ourselves (as) we should have won the game,” he lamented.

The Jamaica Franchise team will travel to Barbados tomorrow for their secondround contest against the Barbados Pride Franchise, which bowls off on Friday.

- Jamaica Observer

Matthews third-straight fifty fails to save Windies Women AUSTRALIA -- Teenaged opener Hayley Matthews carved out her third successive halfcentury, but it did little to prevent West Indies Women’s losing skid from continuing, as the Caribbean side plunged to an eight-wicket defeat in the third One-Day International here Sunday.

Defending 220 for seven, West Indies watched helplessly as Aussie captain Meg Lanning stroked her fifth one-day hundred to power the hosts to their target in the 44th over, to complete a comfortable victory at Bradman Oval.

The win ensured Australia Women swept the ICC Championship which comprises the first three matches of the four-match series, and also left West Indies Women without success on the tour. The tourists suffered a whitewash in the preceding four-match Twenty20 series.

Opting to bat first, West Indies were given another great start by Matthews and Kycia Knight, who put on 97 to follow up their century stand in the last game.

Sixteen-year-old Matthews was again fluent, stroking a top score of 60 from 81 balls, to follow up scores of 55 and 89 in the previous ODIs. Knight got 40 off 58 balls with five fours before falling first, trapped lbw in the 20th over by Erin Osborne, and her dismissed

triggered a collapse that saw five wickets fall for 59 runs.

Matthews, who counted seven fours in her knock, was part of the carnage along with the prolific pair of Deandra Dottin, who struck 25 from 45 balls, and Stafanie Taylor, who made just five.

Struggling at 156 for five in the 40th, Windies Women were lifted by a crucial sixth-wicket stand of 61 between Shaquana Quintyne, who finished 33 not out, and captain Merissa Aguilleira, who returned to form with 30.

Quintyne faced 35 balls and struck three fours while Aguilleira, without a double score in her last seven internationals, struck two fours and a six off 26 deliveries.

In reply, Australia slumped to 18 for two in the fifth over when off-spinner Taylor bowled Nicole Bolton for nine and seamer Dottin had Elyse Villani caught at the wicket for five.

But that was the last sight of success for the Windies as Lanning combined in an unbroken, third-wicket stand of 204 with Ellyse Perry, who hit an unbeaten 64, to take the game away.

Lanning finished on 135 off 127 balls with 17 fours, while Perry supported in a 110ball knock that included four fours.

- Jamaica Observer

TORONTO CARIBBEAN TORON

Wednesday, November 19, 2014 17

Red Force fighting to stay alive TRINIDAD -- T&T Red Force will be battling today to avoid losing their first match of the WICB Professional Cricket League, when their clash against Barbados Pride enters the final day at the Queen’s Park Oval.

Following on 264 runs behind, Rayad Emrit’s men closed on 165 for three—still needing another 99 runs to make Barbados bat again with seven wickets in hand.

After losing their final three first innings wickets for the addition of just seven runs, folding for 96 in response to Barbados 360, the local men were always up against it.

The pitch played well and batting was not a difficult art during the afternoon. Openers Lendl Simmons and Evin Lewis looked positive and took the score to 38, when the former was unlucky to be given out, leg before off Kemar Roach for 27.

The West Indies fastman went wide off the crease and angled one into Simmons, which appeared to be missing the leg stick but umpire Patrick Gustard thought otherwise.

As the forlorn figure of Simmons trudged off, it looked like same old, same old but the young Yannick Ottley joined Lewis and they were up for a fight.

The two, who represented the West Indies at the ICC U-19 World Cup back in 2010 in New Zealand, knew enough about each others game, as they ran sensibly between the wickets, pinching runs easily. Lewis had problems with his timing but brought up his half century nevertheless, as the fight continued.

The two added 90 runs for the second wicket, when left arm spinner Jomel Warrican, who grabbed 4/12 in the first essay, sent back Lewis. The Tableland left hander was trapped leg before for 61. He batted for 161 minutes, faced 120 balls and struck nine fours.

Up next was Jason Mohammed and he joined a well entrenched Ottley at the crease. Mohammed who failed in the first innings came out guns blazing and played some attractive shots which delighted the handful of spectators on hand. He and Ottley took the score past the 150-run mark and just as they looked like closing up shop for T&T on the day, Ottley fell in the final over.

With the clock showing 5.28 pm the umpires decided to slip in one last over in near darkness. Ashley Nurse then got Ottley to touch one to Dwayne Smith at slip for 44.

He batted for 166 minutes and faced 138 balls, striking six fours.

Mohammed left unbeaten on the other end, on 32 will come out this morning looking to continue the battle. He has so far batted for 46 minutes, faced 40 balls and sent five to the fence and one over it.

Earlier, the Red Force resumed on 89 for seven and before worshippers could have said a prayer for them at Sunday morning service, they were all out for 96.

Warrican grabbed all three wickets in the space of 26 minutes and 6.4 overs. The last two recognised batsmen skipper Rayad Emrit (2) and Imran Khan (15) failed to lead a revival and the home team fell short of the 100-run mark.

At the fall of the final wicket, the rain came and washed out the rest of the morning session and play only resumed at 1.45 pm.

Red Force 1st inns (Overnight 89/7) L Simmons c Smith b Roach 25 E Lewis c Dowrich b C Brathwaite 10 Y Ottley c Dowrich b C Brathwaite 3 J Mohammed b C Brathwaite 0 Y Carriah c Phillips b Warrican 26 D Ramdin b Roach 0 A Hosein c Holder b Nurse 9 I Khan c Nurse b Warrican 13 R Emrit lbw Warrican 2 M Richards c Smith b Warrican 4 S Gabriel not out 1 Extras nb1 1 Total all out 96 Fall of wkts: 22, 22, 34, 42, 42, 62, 84, 90, 93, 96.

Bowling: K Roach 9-4-25-2, J Holder 9-517-0, C Brathwaite 12-5-13-3, A Nurse 8-022-1, D Smith 3-0-7-0, J Warrican 5.4-2-12.

Red Force 2nd inns L Simmons lbw Roach 27 E Lewis lbw Warrican 61 Y Ottley c Smith b Nurse 44 J Mohammed not out 32 Extras lb1 1 Total for 3 wkts 165 Fall of wkts: 38, 128, 165.

Bowling: K Roach 8-2-24-1, J Holder 5-1-23-0, C Brathwaite 5-2-11-0, A Nurse 8.3-1-33-1, J Warrican 14-5-38-1, R Chase 8-2-25-0, J Carter 2-1-4-0, D Smith 1-1-0-0, K Brathwaite 2-1-6-0.

- Trinidad Guardian

SCOREBOARD: T&T Red Force vs Barbados Pride Barbados 1st inns 360 all out

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20 Wednesday, November 19, 2014

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Jerk chicken fried rice Chris De La Rosa Caribbean Cooking Having leftover rice is quite normal in our home as I purposely make extra and store it in the fridge for making quick and tasty fried rice dishes. However when it comes to having ‘extra’ jerk chicken.. let’s just say that we’re true carnivores! With our girls off in college, sometimes I tend to forget and end up cooking the same amounts as if they were still living at home. Thus the extra jerk chicken in this case.

I love one pot dishes, especially ones where all the main components are already cooked.. like the rice and chicken.

You’ll Need: 4 cups cooked rice (I used long grain brown rice) 2 cups diced jerk chicken 2 scallions 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 2 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon oyster sauce 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil 1 cup cabbage (chopped) 1 carrot diced 1/2 large onion diced 1 clove garlic (diced fine) 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 cup diced bell pepper 1 cup peas (frozen – thawed) * Optional – 1 teaspoon grated ginger Note: To make this dish fully gluten free ensure that the marinade you used in making the jerk chicken was gluten free (pay attention to the soy sauce used) and double check the oyster and soy sauce called for in the

ingredient list above. White rice will also work excellent with this dish.

It’s important that the rice be kept in the fridge (even if it’s fresh rice you cooked specifically for this fried rice dish) as it will help it maintain a grainy texture when this jerk chicken fried rice is done cooking. Dice the onion, garlic, carrots, bell pepper and scallion. Then strip the jerk chicken off the bones (I used both white and dark meat).. try to keep as much of the marinade that’s cooked onto the chicken pieces as it will really help make this, ‘jerk chicken’ fried rice.

Heat the oil on a medium flame in a deep/ wide pan, then add the diced onion, garlic and black pepper (add the grated ginger at this point as well – if using), turn the heat down to low and cook for 2 minutes. Then raise the heat to medium and add the bell pepper, frozen peas and carrots – cook for 3 minutes.

Add the oyster sauce, sesame oil and soy sauce along with the pieces of chicken and cook for another 2 minutes.

Now go in with the chopped cabbage and chilled rice. Mix well and cook for about 3-5 minutes or until everything is heated through. Top with the scallions and you’e done. You’ll notice that I didn’t add any salt as both the rice and chicken was already cooked with salt and the soy sauce we added will be enough to perfectly season this fried rice. However, do taste near the end of cooking and adjust accordingly.

Your kitchen will have that wicked aroma of islands as the pieces of jerk chicken combines with the other ingredients to give you one of the best one pot rice dishes you’ve ever had. If you want you can also intensify the ‘jerk’ flavors by adding a teaspoon of you favorite jerk marinade to the mix (when we added the other sauces) and don’t forget you can kick this up even more with the addition of some finely diced “Caribbean sunshine” – scotch bonnet pepper.

Wednesday, November 19, 2014 21

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Riding the seasonal wave: Finding balance between tension & relaxation Autumn offers an invitation for us to balance the polarities between tension and relaxation. When leaves turn, gardens are harvested and temperatures begin to drop, we are reminded on a daily basis that nothing is permanent, everything is fleeting. For some, we lean into the seasonal wave and passionately thrive off change. The unknown brings us inspiration, as the next corner is potent with opportunity waiting to be explored. For others, we resist the seasonal shift and cling to summer like the last leaf on a bare tree.

Change creates friction. It is a reminder of things lost, moments ended and time that we can never get back.

The practice of yoga offers an alternative to leaning way out on the pendulum of rigidity or chaos and alternatively supports the steady current. In a more expanded view, yoga asana occurs not just on the yoga mat or meditation cushion, but is the foundation from which we act in daily life. So how does a physical posture lead to a change in mindset? Let us explore the quote from Patanjali’s

Yoga Sutras: Sthira sukham asanam the posture is steady and comfortable.

Sthira speaks not only of challenge, strength, endurance and fortitude but also vigilance, the ability to be pay attention, to be present. It is the opposite of agitation and refers to both physical and mental stillness: a controlled, fully engaged body and a focused mind. Sukha translates as pleasurable, joyful, agreeable, easy, comfortable, happy, prosperous, relaxed. Here we bring in the principles non-violence and self-acceptance.

We nurture ourselves by doing something that feels good. The actual translation of asana is seat or camp, and can refer to a way of sitting, a hatha yoga posture, a place or a situation.

As a teacher of yoga, I witness many postures either being over-amplified or under-supported. Those who are overachievers and type A personalities require a cueing to soften the tension, release the striving and look for how they can create space and expansion within their bodies. Those who en-

ter into a posture half heartedly or lacking energy need reminders to stay present and focused. To contain through their center core and befriend the contracting muscular energy. When the opposition is played out in a present, mindful and conscious body, it will begin to layer deeply on a cellular level. In other words, we begin to reprogram our habitual thought patterns. Over time, our physical commitment to not serving the ego will begin to affect our emotions and mindset.

An individual who is Type A can oftentimes perform asanas to the point where the facial expressions are showing signs of discomfort and the body is shaking because it is taken too extremely to its edge. When this person begins to back off a little, it creates physical space - as well as mental space - to ask themselves “am I happy in this posture?” This may lead to further exploration of whether or not they are able to have fun and be spontaneous in regular life. Once the door of expansion is opened, the lens through which they see themselves begins to

change. Over time, the rigidity and tension is no longer sought out. Instead, they begin to seek the steady and comfortable space.

An individual who lacks motivation can be fidgety, apathetic and bored. The challenge here is to seek challenge. Look for ways to physically recruit muscular energy to the point that focus and presence is a must.

Containment will most likely lead to irritability and rebellion initially. Yet that discomfort, if sustained, may lead to questions such as “Why do I always want to leave?” “What is it that I don’t want to look at?” Physical commitment is the practice but leads to the potential by-product of emotional and relationship commitment. These people may find their steady and comfortable space.

Yoga does not impose form upon us, but allows us to discover our Self through form. In life, asana firmly settles us because of these two complementary qualities: firmness in directing our actions and softness in expressing them.

- My Yoga Online

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Drinking processed cowʼs milk causes early death The idea that consuming calcium-containing milk products is required to sustain healthy bones is quickly fading, as new research continues to unravel one of the food market’s biggest myths.

Extensive reporting by Natural News reveals that humans are the only mammals to continue drinking milk past infancy, and that there are actually other sources of nutrition more sufficient for building healthy bones.

A recent study published in The BMJ adds to that theory, suggesting that milk consumption doesn’t prevent fractures that are often linked to osteoporosis, a condition involving brittle bones that affects 40 million Americans.

More than 200 million people suffer worldwide from osteoporosis, with the majority of them being women over 60. The most concentrated cases exist in Europe, North America and Japan, all of which consume a significant amount of dairy.

Researchers from Sweden, one of the countries that consume the most dairy per capita, examined the lifestyles and diets of more than 100,000 Swedes dating back as far as 1987 and tracking them until their death, or until Dec. 31, 2010.

The results showed that drinking milk did not reduce bone fractures, and those who drank the most milk where likely to die younger than their counterparts The data used to reach this conclusion were based on two previous studies, including diet surveys answered by more than 61,000 women between 1987 and 1990.

Among them, less than 40,000 of them filled out a more detailed diet survey in 1997.

Diet questionnaires completed by more than 45,000 Swedish men were also analyzed, confirms the LA Times.

Not only did the study’s results dispel the myth that drinking milk helps prevent bone fractures, but the more milk women drank, the more fractures they had.

More than 17,000 women suffered from some type of fracture, with more than 4,000 of them being hip fractures. The women who drank at least three glasses of milk per day were 16 percent more likely to break a bone, and 60 percent of the avid milk

drinkers were more likely to have a hip fracture.

Regimented milk drinkers were 93 percent more likely to die during the study than their counterparts. Those who drank three or more glasses a day were 90 percent more likely to die of cardiovascular disease and 44 percent more likely to die of cancer, compared with women who drank just one glass of milk a day.

Men also experienced a higher risk of death and fractures in conjunction with higher milk consumption, but the distinction was less pronounced than in women.

“Our results may question the validity of recommendations to consume high amounts of milk to prevent fragility fractures,” said the study’s lead researcher, Professor Karl Michaelsson. While scientists say more studies are needed before making any definitive dietary recommendations, they agree that the role of milk in the U.S. needs to be reevaluated.

Sugar in milk causes aging mice The risk of early death is likely linked to Dgalactose, which is produced by the body as it breaks down the sugar found in milk. Previous studies show that chronic exposure to this nutrient induces “oxidative stress damage, chronic inflammation, neurodegeneration, decreased immune response, and gene transcriptional changes,” scientists say.

D-galactose is known to mimic the effects of aging.

Consuming fermented products like yogurt is associated with lower risk for death and fractures Women with high intakes of fermented dairy products like yogurt, cheese, butter and sour cream experienced lower rates of fractures and premature death than women who consumed less of these products.

Continued research on this subject is expected to change the way our country perceives milk consumption. Some experts are adamant that milk consumption is directly correlated with osteoporosis. After all, Europe and North America both have high rates of milk consumption, directly correlated with high incidences of hip fractures and disease, says The BMJ. Mexico doesn’t consume much milk and also has very low rates of osteoporosis.

- Natural News

Wednesday, November 19, 2014 23

24 Wednesday, November 19, 2014

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Stevia vs. Splenda - choosing the right sweetener As the dangers associated with refined sugar consumption go mainstream, many people are looking for safe alternatives to satisfy their sweet tooth. And two of the more popular sweetener alternatives on the market today, Stevia and Splenda, claim to provide a safe dose of sweet without the calories and sugar rush. So which one should health-conscious folks choose?

Going into its 16th year on the market in the U.S., Splenda, the active ingredient of which is sucralose, claims to be a no-calorie sugar substitute made from actual sugar. McNeil Nutritionals, LLC, the company that manufacturers Splenda, admits that the product is not natural, but advertising associated with Splenda suggests that it is a lot like sugar.

On its website, McNeil also claims that sucralose is not metabolized by the body into either carbohydrates or calories. Because of this, Splenda is marketed as having no effect on the body other than making food and beverages taste sweet. In other words, a person can eat Splenda and gain no weight, according to the company.

On top of this, McNeil makes the claim in its FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) section for Splenda that there are “no known side effects” associated with the sweetener, and that more than 110 scientific studies and more than 20 years of research back this claim. Because of this, a person can safely eat as much Splenda as they want, according to the company, and not experience any adverse effects.

These and other claims made on the Splenda website make it seem as though this artificial, chemical-based sweetener is completely safe. But there is a whole different side of the story not being told by McNeil that the public should know.

Splenda is not completely eliminated by the body after consumption One claim on the Splenda website that is highly misleading involves the body’s response to the chemical. According to McNeil, Splenda passes largely unabsorbed through the body, and does not accumulate in tissue or organs. This is the reasoning behind its branding as a zero-calorie sweetener that does not affect blood sugar levels.

“After it is ingested, most (about 85%) is not absorbed and passes through the body unchanged and in the stool,” explains Splenda’s FAQ section. “Of the small amount that is absorbed, most leaves the body unchanged in the urine within 24 hours.”

This is highly deceptive, however, as studies have shown that at least 15 percent of consumed Splenda is absorbed by the body -- and much of this percentage is broken down and absorbed by the body, despite what the company claims. A 2009 study published in the International Journal of Morphology revealed this after researchers studies the two hydrolysis products of sucralose.

“The hydrolysis product 4-CG is excreted, essentially in intact form, in the urine, while 1,6-DCF follows one of two principal metabolic pathways: reduction to 1,6 dichloroaminnitol, rapidly excreted in unaltered form in the urine, or conjugated with glutathione.”

Glutathione, of course, is the body’s master antioxidant, and one of the hydrolysis products of sucralose literally unites with it to exchange genetic material. This can have profound effects on health, potentially leading to an accumulation of sucralose inside the body and the degradation of immune function, not to mention steady alterations to

gut flora as a result of the chemical’s consumption.

Even if the body absorbs only 15 percent of Splenda as claimed by McNeil, this “small” amount can create problems as the body does not recognize the identity of this artificial chemical. Since it is technically a chlorocarbon -- meaning it contains chlorine -- Splenda is a highly toxic poison that could lead to long-term health problems. Is it really worth the risk?

Stevia: the safe alternative to chemical sweeteners All-natural stevia, on the other hand, is a zero-calorie, plant-based sweetener with no known side effects. Consumed for over 200 years throughout South America, the stevia plant bears leaves that are naturally sweet -- up to 400 times sweeter, by volume, than table sugar -- and that do not damage gut flora and cause other problems in the same way as Splenda.

The pure extract of stevia leaves contains steviol glycosides that give the sweetener both robust taste and intensity.

These glycosides are completely natural, and at least one study has determined that they can actually promote health by blocking inflammation, tumors, harmful pathogens, and other destroyers of health.

Just be sure to avoid chemicallymodified versions of stevia extract such as Truvia (Cargill) and PureVia (Pepsico), both of which are made from isolated components of stevia combined with processed fillers. Cargill, the manufacturer of Truvia, has actually been sued for false advertising with regards to Truvia being natural, which it is not.

- Natural News

Three natural remedies for removing skin tags Skin tags are small growths of skin that appear on the surface of the skin, usually on the face, neck, underarms, chest or groin. These small skin growths are benign tumors. They look like excess skin, but they are complete with nerve cells, fat cells, and a core of fibers and ducts. Skin tags can be bothersome and make one self-conscious. Luckily, they can be removed using natural home remedies.

Two of these methods call for the use of oils.

It is important to first dilute an oil before applying it directly to the skin, especially if you have never used that oil previously. In my experience, I haven’t had the need to dilute tea tree oil, but those with skin sensitivities might need to.

Tea tree oil This powerful oil has been used for centuries. Australian aborigines have been using tea tree for thousands of years to treat cuts and burns. Tea tree, also known as Melaleuca, is an antiseptic and was the the favored antiseptic for most Australian doctors in the

early 20th century. Tea tree can also be used to remove skin tags. First, wash the affected area with soap and water, then dry the area thoroughly. Next, dip a q-tip halfway into some tea tree oil and apply the oil onto the skin tag. If needed, tea tree oil can be diluted with olive oil. Lastly, cover the skin tag with a band-aid. Reapply one drop of tea tree oil two more times throughout the day and cover with a new band-aid. You’ll notice the skin tag shrink until it falls off on its own in a few days. If you don’t notice much improvement, try applying the oil more frequently or adding more tea tree oil to the diluted blend.

Tea tree oil is ideal for removing skin tags, because it will help soothe the skin and keep it from becoming infected.

Garlic This is another great natural antiseptic. For this remedy, you’ll need some fresh garlic, a knife and some band-aids. First, start by washing the affected area with soap and water, then dry thoroughly. Next, slice a clove

of garlic into “discs.” Take a disc of garlic and rub it all over the skin tag. Lastly, cut the disc down to the size of the skin tag, apply it and cover with a band-aid. Do this in the morning and leave it on all day. Then remove the band-aid and garlic before bed and wash the affected area. Repeat this process until the skin tag falls off, 4-6 days. Alternatively, the garlic can be applied before bed and removed in the morning.

Apple cider vinegar Yet another wonderful use for apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar, like garlic and tea tree oil, is also a natural antiseptic.

Use this vinegar to remove skin tags by first cleaning the affected area and running warm water over the skin tags until they become soft. Once the skin tags become soft, apply a cotton swab soaked in apple cider vinegar to the skin tag for 20 minutes. Next, rinse the apple cider vinegar off. Repeat this process 2-3 times a day until the skin tag falls off.

- Natural News

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Diabetes Alert: Do not ignore this silent killer Dr. Lydia Thurton ND BASc

Health Tips I stood in our dispensary today talking with three regular customers about their health concerns. One gentleman mentioned that he was diabetic. “How are you managing your blood sugar?” I ask. He says, “Oh, I pretend I don’t I have diabetes. I don’t check my blood sugar and I eat whatever I want.”

His statement was very scary to me.

I try not to give unsolicited advice, so I didn’t divulge my concerns to him. However, to the Toronto Caribbean readers I say, if you have diabetes, you must take your disease seriously. The consequences of long term blood sugar elevation are severe and impact both quality and quantity of life. People who have immigrated to Canada from the Caribbean are twice as likely to develop type II diabetes than their Canadian born counterparts. Diabetes is treatable, but it requires the patient

to play an active role in health maintenance activities.

For many years diabetes can be easy to ignore. Vague headaches, thirst, or shaky feelings can be dismissed for, in some cases, ten years. Nevertheless, unchecked diabetes is silently wreaking havoc on your nerves, blood vessels and critical organs. In Canada, diabetes is the leading cause of blindness, limb amputation, kidney failure and cardiovascular disease. Diabetes damages nerves, creating a painful “pins and needles” type of pain in feet, hands and other areas of the body.

In type II diabetes, sugar has been elevated in the blood stream for so long that your body’s cells are no longer willing to uptake the sugar and transport it into the cell.

In order to encourage your cells to uptake the sugar (glucose) your pancreas pumps out large quantities of insulin. One day even the pancreas gives up, stops producing insulin, and you now require insulin injections. The medication Metformin, the most frequently prescribed drug, helps prevent your liver from releasing even more glucose into your blood stream. Other drugs encourage your pancreas to secrete more and more insulin in attempts to drive the sugar into the cell.

Altering your diet is essential if you

hope to get your blood sugar under control.

People with diabetes can have junk food from time to time, but once diagnosed, if you want to stay healthy, you do not have the luxury of eating whatever you want. Familiarize yourself with the glycemic index.

This is a chart that shows how quickly your body turns certain foods into sugar. Foods that turn quickly into sugar, like white rice, potato, pasta, bread and sweets, spike your blood sugar and insulin levels, worsening your condition. Eating protein and fiber is the fundamental basis of a diabetes friendly diet.

Physical activity, even in small amounts drastically improves your blood sugar control. When you exercise your muscles uptake glucose out of the blood stream and convert it to energy. There are so many forms of physical activity, you do not have to go to a gym. You can do mall walking, Nordic pole walking, yoga, aquafit, socacize, and find fitness videos on YouTube to watch.

Find something that you like to do, it’s the best way to create a lifelong habit.

Most importantly, if you have diabetes, even if you feel okay, it is important to check your blood sugar and get regular check-ups from your health care provider.

The effects of diabetes on oral health Dr. Matthew Weekes BSC DDS MTh DMin

Dental Health

There is an increased prevalence of gum disease in diabetics. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to heart disease, stroke and kidney disease, but it can also contribute to severe gum diseases especially among those with poor oral hygiene. People with diabetes are more susceptible to serious gum disease and people with serious gum disease have the

potential for elevated blood glucose levels leading to diabetes.

The oral manifestations of diabetes may be gingivitis (early gum disease) and periodontitis (advanced gum disease) which could cause bone loss resulting in the loss of teeth. Sores may develop and fungus infections such as thrush. Other symptoms can be dry mouth and cavities extending to the roots of the teeth.

Dental Care Dental care is particularly important for people with diabetes because of the high risk of oral health problems.

Since gingivitis and periodontitis are infections of bacterial origin, uncontrolled diabetics may experience a higher frequency and severity of gum disease. This may be localized to generalized pain in the

mouth. It may be throbbing or constant pain which may cause the individual to seek emergency dental treatment. Diabetic patients should let the dentist know what medications they are taking especially insulin before any treatment is undertaken. It is also important for the dentist to know if there has been any diabetic episodes in the past due to low blood sugar resulting in fainting.

Prevention Control blood glucose levels either by diet or by taking prescriptions as prescribed. Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing thoroughly. Avoid smoking. Remove dentures at night and clean them daily.

Regular dental checkups and cleaning are very important to avoid serious oral problems.

Beating obesity Monique Bartlett Fitness Obesity is on the rise and is one of the most dangerous conditions someone can have.

Obesity is spreading all over North America and to other parts of the world. We live in a society where everything is so fast paced and there is little time to exercise. Then we compound this by eating high calorie foods and also do little or no exercise. Obesity occurs when the body accumulates more fat than it actually needs thus creating a health risk. By taking control of obesity it will cause someone to lose the extra weight and be on their way to a leaner and healthier body. So what

exercises can someone do to burn fat?

One of the best exercises to burn fat is walking. This means that someone doesn’t have to go out and buy a bunch of fancy equipment or join a gym. Walking can be done around the block, along a country road or just by becoming a habit to walk for short distances instead of driving. Country walking can be extra time out to meditate and clear your mind. It’s also a great way to get in some sightseeing.

Another exercise that is just as easy to do as walking is jogging. You can get good running shoes and make it a habit to jog even half a kilometer every day. As with any physical exercise, you should consult with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.

Enrolling in a gym is also another way you can lose weight. Exercises with free weights, machines or even your own body weight can work in helping someone shed those excess pounds. This is especially true because in a gym there are others who are working towards a similar goal and are there

to also help motivate you.

When someone is struggling with obesity they typically have excess belly fat.

Good eating habits paired with the right balance of cardio and weight training can put someone well on their way to shrinking their belly and lose fat.

An alternative way to lose weight is to go to a sports store and purchase an exercise machine. The most popular exercise machine is a treadmill but you can also purchase a stepper, a home gym or even an elliptical machine. In many of these stores there are capable staff that can help you with any questions you might have and help you make the purchase for the exact machine you need. Make sure that if you’re going to buy exercise equipment, you’re going to use it.

Ultimately, obesity can be beaten.

With motivation, dedication and determination reducing belly fat and getting fit and healthy can truly change someone’s life.

With time, effort and support you can create serious changes both inside and out.

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Variable rate mortgage (VRM) & reductions to credit card fees Stephen Mohammed Finance Mortgage: Buying a home is certainly one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make in your lifetime. Choosing an appropriate mortgage can seem challenging.

It is important that you review as many options as you can so that you may understand all options available to help you make the right decision. Variable rate mortgages do not have fixed interest rates. Unlike fixed rate mortgages, the interest rate and monthly payment you make with a variable rate mortgage will change with the prime lending rate.

Your payments could increase or decrease.

Variable rate mortgages are simply the Prime lending rate plus or minus a percentage set by your lender. For example, if the variable rate is prime -0.8%, and the prime rate is 3%, you would pay 2.2% with a variable rate mortgage. Your mortgage rate will fluctuate with the prime rate and could go up or down. The prime rate is set by the Bank of Canada. If you decide to choose a variable rate mortgage, you may be undertaking a financial risk. If you don’t feel comfortable with this risk, you may want to choose a fixed rate mortgage. Fixed rate mortgages are suitable for clients who don’t

want to take financial risks, and who want to be sure that their interest rate won’t change over the term of their mortgage. Consider a fixed rate mortgage if you think market interest rates will increase throughout the term of your mortgage. Fixed rate mortgages are generally chosen by homebuyers who don’t have the ability to cover increased mortgage payments and prefer that their mortgage payments remain constant throughout the mortgage term.

Finance: Canada’s largest credit card companies have agreed to reduce the fees they charge merchants. However, many industry groups and analysts are not convinced the cuts will have a significant impact on businesses or shoppers. Visa Canada Corp. and MasterCard Inc. will cut their Canadian credit card transaction fees to an average of 1.5% for the next five years, a reduction of about 10%.The decrease to these so-called interchange fees, which can soar as high as 3 per cent on some specialty cards, translates into a lower fee for the merchant each time a card is swiped, inserted or tapped to purchase goods or services.

The fee reductions will be made effective by April, 2015. Customers who pay with a Visa or MasterCard card now make up half of total sales. These purchases cost the company four to five times more than those who pay with debit. The Retail Council of Canada (RCC) also said there is still work to do to improve prices for consumers. It’s a step in the right direction, but further reductions are needed.

Celebrating entrepreneurship with Canadaʼs Start-up Visa FREDERICTON -- Today, Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander announced that the founders of Ara Labs Security Solutions are the latest successful applicants for permanent residence through the Start-up Visa Program.

Supported by the New Brunswick Innovation Foundation (NBIF), Ehsan Mokhtari and Hadi Shiravi Khozani’s startup company has developed a platform for the real-time monitoring of fraudulent behaviour affecting the advertising campaigns of its customers. Formerly of Iran, both founders were PhD candidates at the University of New Brunswick prior to launching their company and obtaining a venture capital investment from the NBIF. Alexander made the announcement at the University of New Brunswick’s

National Research Council – Institute for Information Technology Building, where he noted that Mr. Mokhtari and Mr. Shiravi Khozani are the first successful Start-up Visa Program applicants in Atlantic Canada.

The Start-up Visa Program, the first of its kind in the world, links experienced Canadian venture capital funds, angel investor organizations and business incubators with foreign entrepreneurs who want to launch their start-up companies in Canada.

It is an important part of the Government’s plan to build a fast and flexible economic immigration system, with a primary focus on meeting the new and emerging needs of the Canadian economy.

- CIC

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Court rules 407ETR not exempt from limitations act Tammy Flores 407ETR Matters We have a Superior Court ruling that may signal relief, at some point, for driver’s that have been stung by 407 ETR’s questionable business practices. Justice Edwards ruled, November 4th, 2014 that 407 ETR is not exempt from the Limitations Act. Justice Edwards points out what many have been saying for years, “There is nothing from my review of the Limitations Act nor the 407 Act which would explicitly exempt the 407 ETR from Ontario’s limitation regime, nor is there anything that prescribes a separate limitation period for the toll debt. Presumptively the toll debt owed to the 407 ETR is, in my view, subject to sections 4 and 15 of the Limitations Act…In my view it would take explicit language in the 407 Act, and or an exception provided for in the Limitations Act, to give to the 407 ETR an ability to make a claim free of any limitations defense.

No such language can be found in the 407 Act, nor is there any exception in the Limitations Act.” In addition to Justice Edwards’ comments I would like to add, nor does that language exist in any other consumer protection law the company has been ignoring since it started to operate their business in 1999. It begs the question, why does the Province continue to turn a blind eye to this company’s flagrant and blatant ignorance of consumer protection laws?

So far, it’s been a cat-and-mouse game whereby there appears to have been a pursuit of justice by the Province, but they gave up forcing the public to take over the pursuit. We have near captures in that we get rulings that would appear to help make the answer clearer, but then the company escapes any accountability on technicalities.

The judge touches on this in his ruling by referring to the Divisional Court’s decision in 2005 that mandates the Ministry of Transportation to apply the Plate Denial process when the company says a consumer owes 407 ETR money. Essentially the Ministry of Transportation says, that ruling ties their hands and there is nothing they can do. If the company says you owe them money they have to honor the request for Plate Denial.

What has been pointed out, for many years, to the Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of Consumer Services is the problem with 407 ETR abusing this ruling and submitting questionable amounts, amounts that may not be lawful. Currently, there are no tools at the Ministry of Transportation’s disposal that would allow them to question the legality of a claim by the company. All the company has to do is give the Ministry a piece of paper swearing that this licensed driver owes x amount of money and the Ministry has to except that whether or not the claim is lawful.

The crux of the problem is that when the company puts a consumer in Plate Denial, it’s not just for tolls. It’s for whatever amount of interest and fees the company feels they can impose upon Consumers. Consumers have been accusing the company of usury since they started operating in 1999. Not only that, often times when a consumer pays the amount owing on a plate to renew their plate at the Ministry of Transportation’s office, the consumer still gets a bill from the company without ever driving on the highway because the company continues to claim interest and fees on inter-

est and fees. So the amount that is claimed to the Ministry of Transportation is not the full amount of money the company tries to collect from the consumer.

The Ministry of Transportation blindly honors whatever claims 407 ETR makes without any burden of proof because in that 2005 ruling, consumers have to prove the claim is wrong. Talk about your backwards dealings. I always thought you were presumed innocent until proven guilty, not guilty until you can prove you are innocent.

This has become very problematic because many times the company doesn’t provide consumers with details on what the claim against them is for. Even when a consumer has been able to pry details out of the company, there has been no recourse to dispute the charges fairly because, by that time, the consumer was pushed through the company’s bias, internal dispute process and was told that they weren’t eligible to go through the LGIC appointed, independent dispute arbitrators.

More plays in the cat-and-mouse game.

So now the ball is back to the Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of Consumer Services. What are they going to do to make sure consumers are protected from this company’s predatory practices?

Justice Edwards makes a distinction between a consumer and a business and says “The 407 ETR must have therefore known of the distinction between a consumer applying for a transponder in his personal capacity versus someone acting in his business capacity.

Mr. Day, when he leased the transponder, did so as a consumer as defined by the Consumer Protection Act. As such, the 407 ETR cannot rely upon the 15 year limitation period set forth in the Transponder Lease Agreement, as the 407 ETR does not fall within the exception set forth in section 22(5)(1) of the Limitations Act given that it only applies in respect of business agreements. The Transponder Lease Agreement as signed by Mr. Day was not a business agreement.”

Why then, did the Ministry of Consumer Services pass the buck back to the Ministry of Transportation when they were approached to deal with this issue on behalf of consumers? We have no satisfying answers.

Just bureaucratic posturing over jurisdiction.

Another dimension to the cat-and-mouse game.

Justice Edwards points out the reason for the 407 Act. He says it’s not just to privatize the highway, but to provide the 407 ETR an effective method of toll collection and says “An effective method of toll collection, in my view, has implicit in it a common sense approach to a reasonable limitation period, recognizing that the interests of both the 407 ETR and the consumer need to be protected.”

That is a balanced, fair, reasonable view. Up to this point, the scales of justice has been tipped in favor of 407 ETR. How much longer will we be spinning our wheels with the Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of Consumer Services? Will they ever do anything to protect consumers?

While the ruling is encouraging, there is nothing stopping the company from sitting on invoices for many years before they put a consumer in plate denial for nonpayment. Although the 407 Act has time provisions in sections 16 and 22, the sections that deal with Plate Denial, the company looks at those provisions as suggestions and not a limit on when they have to apply the Plate Denial process. Are consumers going to have to wait until this case reaches the Supreme Court of Canada sometime in 2017 before they will see relief? We can only hope that the Province will balance out those scales of justice and finally act in the interest of consumers. Let’s stop playing the cat-and-mouse game.

Wednesday, November 19, 2014 27

FOR SALE FOR SALE

FOR SALE FOR SALE TRINIDAD HOME: House for sale in Trinidad, 8000 square feet of land, prime area. Brand new custom built, never lived in. 2.5tt. 416-835-4161 or 416-740-3221 TRINIDAD: Residential lots for sale in Freeport, Trinidad. $300,000 for 5,000 sq. ft. – larger lots available. 10 mins east of the hwy - 20 mins to Chaguanas or Couva.

Crime-free, flood-free, electricity, water, paved road. Phone: 416-936-5996

FORWANTED SALE HELP

FOR SALE WORSHIP

WEST INDIAN COOK: West Indian cook with experience wanted for busy Brampton restaurant. Call 647 895 6905 DRIVER: Part time or full time driver wanted to drive a cargo van in Toronto.

416-938-3753 or 416-686-5502

FOR SALE SERVICES FOR SALE WANTED

FOR RENT SALE FOR ESTHETICS ROOM: In the Oakwood ave and St Clair area contact Gurline 647345-1752

MATURE LADY: Mature lady, non smoker and drinker with drivers license seeks work in exchange for accommodation. Call 647-267-6949

BASEMENT FOR RENT: Female senior or student prefered. Furnished basement apartment, Martingrove and Steeles area.

416-708-3903

FOR SALE PERSONALS RELATIONSHIP WANTED: West Indian gentleman, 50+ lonely in house, very caring and kind hearted, who would like a female companion 30+ who is friendly, sincere and serious for a true relationship. Please call 416-565-3847

FORWANTED SALE HELP

LOOKING : Guyanese East Indian male easy going 5.9 medium built is seeking female age 18+ who is Guyanese or Trinidadian East Indian, busty and medium built easy going for relationship. Please call Sunil 416-422-2935.

FOR SALE ANNOUNCEMENTS PRAYER BREAKFAST: Women’s Missionary Society Prayer Breakfast.Sat Nov 29, 2014 @ Grant AME Church 2029 Gerrard Street East from 9 am to 2 pm Guest Speakers Hon Jean Augustine and Desnee Gabriel. Donations of $10 and nonperishable food items will be appreciated.

Contact: Connie for tickets connie4u@ sympatico.ca or 416 391-4886

COMPANIONSHIP : Mature Jamaican lady age 65 to 70 seeks male 65 to 70 for companionship. If you are serious about meeting someone please call 416-510-2583 WANTED : Sucessful, mature black male seeks independent working woman, must be voluptuous,busty plus sized for meaningful relationship. Contact hclarke2012@hotmail. com. preferably with a picture.

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Your Horoscope - November 19th 2014 ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

Venus in Sagittarius is a good-news transit.

Even though there will be more to tend to— and Tuesday’s sun/Saturn to get through— your overall mood will lighten and brighten.

The coming weeks dish up more choice and opportunity. On Tuesday, there’s something important to weigh, decide, confront, and surpass. As well, it could be a jump-start or jolt-you day.

You are progressively coming to realize what it takes to show up for yourself. In turn, this growth curve changes the way you show up in the world and specifically in relationship dealings. Today’s ambition and effort will net a higher-yield payoff. Keep the long-term benefits in mind. Tuesday is a milestone, breakthrough, cutoff day. From here, you’re full steam ahead.

Five planets in Scorpio have certainly piled on the pressure. While Saturn in Scorpio will continue to force you to task through December, Venus in Sagittarius, starting Sunday, offers you hope, more lucrative prospects, and social reprieve. Tuesday can crystallize or finalize it. Even if you come to a halt, you won’t stall. You’ll move on to next immediately.

Circumstances may dictate the play, but no matter what challenge you now face, there’s a worthwhile byproduct. Five planets in Scorpio help you to be a more effective communicator, creator, and lover; to make empowered choices; and to gain more control. As of the weekend, Neptune and Venus realign your wheels. Tuesday is hit-it time.

Wednesday through Friday, it comes together well.

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

Tuesday is a launch-it day. Right out of the starting gate, there’s more to address.

Whether you stumble onto it or it comes at you, spontaneous choices and creative solutions are your best plays. Venus in Sagittarius is a particularly lucrative transit for your sign. Social, romantic, or cashing in on the holidays, you’ll rock it through the middle of December.

Thursday through Monday sets you up for a battery recharge. The week ahead will keep you motoring right along. Tuesday puts it in writing, finalizes it, or launches it. Once the words are spoken, the contract is signed, the money is spent, or the results are in, your next steps fall into place naturally, readily, and well.

You’ll gain a much better sense of direction as of the weekend, thanks to Neptune and Venus on the move-along. Monday/Tuesday, it’s all a matter of timing and touch.

You seem to have a good handle on both.

Held up no longer, Tuesday throws the action switch in some significant financial, personal, or professional way. A key someone could act as a catalyst.

Venus leaves Scorpio on Sunday but while in Sagittarius she’ll do even more for you.

Over the next few weeks, your profit or output increases; your spending escalates too.

Tuesday can pile it on thick, but rather than slowing you down, it pumps you full of added resolve. Once over the hump, you’re on to results. Wednesday through Friday keeps you on a roll.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Five planets in Scorpio have kept you submerged or under the radar lately. As of Sunday, Venus in Sagittarius puts you back in action. Venus also brings more attention your way. Tuesday is a productive day to work through it. A plan, an ambition, or a creative project shapes up from here. Something unexpected could light a spark or fuse.

Tuesday is a settle-it, make-it-official, or push-the-envelope day. It’s also a time to sign a contract, to meet with a supervisor or in-charge person, to establish new rules or goals. Sun/Saturn could end a trial run, or bring reward or added acknowledgment your way. Your history and accomplishments are something to bank on.

It’s a good weekend to bargain-shop, to tend to personal needs and grooming. You may not get around to everything on your list, but so be it. Venus in Sagittarius, starting Sunday, helps you cover more ground. Venus also boosts your social life and earning potential. On Tuesday, there’s something to work out or jump on.

Bide your time no longer: the end of Neptune retrograde on Saturday opens the floodgates in a positive way. Your creativity and opportunities are on the rise. Venus in Sagittarius, starting Sunday; Tuesday’s sun/Saturn conjunction; and next weekend’s new moon also take the brakes off. Plans and potentials shape up well Wednesday through Friday.

March 20 - April 19

July 22 - August 22

November 22 - December 21

April 19 - May 20

August 22 - September 22

December 21 - January 19

May 20 - June 21

September 22 - October 23

January 19 - February 18

June 21 - July 22

October 23 - November 22

February 18 - March 19

Across 4) Veterinarian’s patients 5) Used to listen to hearts 7) ____ depresser 9) Tooth doctor 11) ____ room 13) Optometrist’s prescription 15) Image of unborn baby 16) Blood ____

Down 1) Preventative medicine 2) Knee-hitting test 3) Routine visit 4) One a day keeps doc away 5) Dermatologist’s specialty 6) Used for injections 8) Hand protectors 10) Goes in mouth or ear 12) Makes you better 14) Doctor who does operations

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Types of financing options: Leasing Jelani Daniel Automotive Corner In my previous column, a brief summary of what financing entails was provided, breaking down how banks, dealerships, and brokerages handle various financing and loan options to buyers. Financing, as a whole, is one option, but within the bubble of financing, there are leases. Each option suits various lifestyles and credit scores. Today, I will outline three different types of lease options and what they contain, letting you see first-hand which option is most suitable for your needs.

Note: Financing approvals are often based on current credit scores, so some options may be unavailable to those in different credit brackets.

Finance Lease: A lump sum is not required in this case since the purchaser of the vehicle is the financer. The financer will take possession of the car, and much like a landlord, issue monthly charges to the leasee. There is no need for a large deposit or time-consuming loan. Such lease options

are great if you are looking for an automobile quickly and have little to no initial capital to invest.

The driver has responsibilities that include the residual risk and general upkeep. At the end of the agreed upon lease term, the leasor has the option to refinance, buy, or trade-in the car.

Operating Lease: An operating lease is very similar to a finance lease, but the residual risk mentioned above does not apply. Instead, the car is paid monthby-month and can be obtained quickly. The leasee can continue to rent the vehicle or upgrade to a newer model at the end of the lease term.

Commercial Hire Purchase Lease: The financer obtains the automobile initially from a manufacturer or dealer. The vehicle is then granted to a leasor, and upon completion of payments, is bought by the leasee. When the loan is paid off, the hired renter can then take full possession of the car. This allows the use of monthly payments without a hefty initial deposit.

The three options listed above include no down payment as well as standard and fixed rates. This gives the leasee sensible options when considering which automobile they would like to obtain. As well, tax-deductions may be issued on the operating leases as well as the finance leases, so speak to your broker today to see which option suits you best.

Have you purchased CRITICAL ILLNESS Insurance yet?

Sherene Cole

CIP, CRM, CAIB, LLQP

Insurance Matters

The future has a way of arriving unannounced – Here is one more thing you can do to prepare for it: purchase critical illness insurance while you are still healthy. If you consider yourself an average person in Canada, your financial situation could change drastically if you suffer a critical illness like cancer, heart attack, stroke, heart bypass surgery and major organ transplants. Take the time now to think about how you would cope.

CRITICAL ILLNESS is indiscriminate and can strike anyone regardless of age, occupation, and sex or income level. Below are some facts about critical illnesses that may interest you: In Canada…

- 1 in 2 will contract heart disease.

- 1 in 2 heart attack victims are under age 65.

- 1 in 4 will suffer kidney failure.

- 1 in 20 runs the risk of having a stroke before age 70.

- 1 in 500 is the incidence rate of Multiple Sclerosis.

- 40% of heart attacks are cause by stress.

- 1% increase per year in cancer incidence since 1970.

- 70% of open heart operations are coronary bypasses.

- A new case of cancer is being diagnosed every 4 minutes.

- 500 new cases of paralysis of at least 2 limbs each year.

- 30% of cancer victims are completely cured.

- 50% decrease in the death rate from heart attacks and strokes over the past 40 years.

- 75% of stroke victims survive the initial event.

- 80% of kidney transplants are successful.

- 95% of heart attack victims survive the initial attack.

- The average length of stay in hospitals for men with heart attacks is 15 days, and for women 23 days.

FACT: The financial consequences of a serious illness are often worse than those of death! A ratio of 8 to 1!

FACT: 1 in 3 people will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime; 60% will survive more than 5 years.

FACT: 70,000 Canadians suffer heart attacks and another 50,000 suffer strokes, every year Critical Illness Insurance was designed to provide financial support to solve these problems in a way that disability, life, and medical insurance could not. It pays the insured person while they’re alive, from $10,000 up to a $2,000,000 maximum in a tax-free lump sum. The money is paid on the diagnosis of one of up to 25 critical illnesses, (depending on what you purchased) if you survive 30 days or more after diagnosis, depending on the condition. A unique benefit of this coverage is that you can spend the money any way you choose to.

But you must have this coverage in place, BEFORE illness strikes. Don’t Delay!

Contact me to explore your coverage options today!

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Communication?? Really... YES! Colleen Lindberg Business Development Effective communication helps us better understand a person or situation and enables us to resolve differences, build trust and respect, and create environments where creative ideas, problem solving, affection, and caring can flourish. As simple as communication seems, much of what we try to communicate to others—and what others try to communicate to us—gets misunderstood, which can cause conflict and frustration in personal and professional relationships.

By learning these effective communication skills, you can better connect with your spouse, kids, friends, clients and coworkers.

In the information age, we have to send, receive, and process huge numbers of messages every day. But effective commu-

nication is about more than just exchanging information; it’s also about understanding the emotion behind the information. Why do people say what they do, voice their opinions in that way, and so on.

move, and react to another person tells them more about how you’re feeling than words alone ever can.

The Skill of Listening Listening is one of the most important aspects of effective communication. Successful listening means not just understanding the words or the information being communicated, but also understanding how the speaker feels about what they’re communicating.

• Focus fully on the speaker, his or her body language, and other nonverbal cues.

• Avoid interrupting or trying to redirect the conversation to your concerns, by saying something like, “If you think that’s bad, let me tell you what happened to me.”

• Show your interest in what’s being said.

Managing Stress In small doses, stress can help you perform under pressure. However, when stress becomes constant and overwhelming, it can hamper effective communication by disrupting your capacity to think clearly and creatively, and act appropriately. When you’re stressed, you’re more likely to misread other people or have you just spat out your thoughts without really thinking first because you are just so wound up?

• Take a moment to calm down • Bring your senses to the rescue and quickly manage stress by taking a few deep breaths • Look for humor in the situation.

• Be willing to compromise • Agree to disagree

Nonverbal communication Wordless communication, or body language, includes facial expressions, body movement and gestures, eye contact, posture, the tone of your voice, and even your muscle tension and breathing. The way you look, listen,

Emotional awareness Emotions play an important role in the way we communicate at home and work. It’s the way you feel, more than the way you think, that motivates you to communicate or to make decisions. The way you react to

emotionally driven, nonverbal cues affects both how you understand other people and how they understand you. If you are out of touch with your feelings, and don’t understand how you feel or why you feel that way, you’ll have a hard time communicating your feelings and needs to others.

• Understand and empathize with what is really troubling other people • Understand yourself, including what’s really troubling you and what you really want • Stay motivated to understand and empathize with the person you’re interacting with, even if you don’t like them or their message • Communicate clearly and effectively, even when delivering negative messages • Build strong, trusting and rewarding relationships, think creatively, solve problems and resolve conflicts Strong communication skills are an asset to expressing your feelings but also the foundation to building strong relationships in both life and business. Imagine a life filled with actual real conversations? Imagine.

Enjoy your week filled with awesome conversations.”

x x x x x

Individuals Families Small-Businesses Self-Employed Retirees

x x x x x

x ΪΠΦ͑ΒΣΖ͑ΓΖΥΨΖΖΟ͑ΥΙΖ͑ΒΘΖΤ͑ΠΗ͑ͩ͑͢ΒΟΕ͑ͨͥ͑

x Β͑ΣΖΤΚΕΖΟΥ͑ΠΗ͑ʹΒΟΒΕΒ͑ x ΔΠΧΖΣΖΕ͑ΓΪ͑Β͑ΡΣΠΧΚΟΔΚΒΝ͑ΙΖΒΝΥΙΔΒΣΖ͑ΡΝΒΟ͑

You may need health coverage if: x ΪΠΦ͑ΕΠΟ‫׏‬Υ͑ΙΒΧΖ͑ΔΠΧΖΣΒΘΖ͑ΥΙΣΠΦΘΙ͑ΪΠΦΣ͑ ΖΞΡΝΠΪΖΣ͑ x ΪΠΦ‫׏‬ΣΖ͑Β͑ΤΞΒΝΝ͑ΓΦΤΚΟΖΤΤ͑ΠΨΟΖΣ͑ΨΚΥΙ͑ΟΠ͑ ΘΣΠΦΡ͑ΓΖΟΖΗΚΥΤ͑ x ΪΠΦ͑ΒΣΖ͑Β͑ΣΖΥΚΣΖΖ͑ΨΙΠ͑ΨΒΟΥΤ͑ΙΖΒΝΥΙΔΒΣΖ͑ ΔΠΧΖΣΒΘΖ͑ x ΪΠΦ͑ΕΠΟ‫׏‬Υ͑ΙΒΧΖ͑ΠΦΥ͑ΠΗ͑ΔΠΦΟΥΣΪ͑ΔΠΧΖΣΒΘΖ͑

΁ΣΖΤΔΣΚΡΥΚΠΟ͑͸ΝΒΤΤΖΤ͑ ʹΠΟΥΒΔΥ͑ͽΖΟΤΖΤ͑ ͽΒΤΖΣ͑ͶΪΖ͑΄ΦΣΘΖΣΪ͑ ͶΪΖ͑ͶΩΒΞΚΟΒΥΚΠΟ͑

9 9 9 9

x Health Practitioners 9 9 9 9 9 9

ʹΙΚΣΠΡΣΒΔΥΠΣ͑ ͑ʹΙΚΣΠΡΠΕΚΤΥ͠΁ΠΕΚΒΥΣΚΤΥ͑ ͑;ΒΤΤΒΘΖ͑΅ΙΖΣΒΡΚΤΥ͑ ͑ͿΒΥΦΣΠΡΒΥΙ͑͝΀ΤΥΖΠΡΒΥΙ͑ ͑΁ΤΪΔΙΠΝΠΘΚΤΥ͑͠΄ΠΔΚΒΝ͑ΈΠΣΜΖΣ͑​͑ ͑΄ΡΖΖΔΙ͑΅ΙΖΣΒΡΚΤΥ͑

For more information, to obtain a quote or to apply,

please contact us at:

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