EVERYTHING E VERYTHING YOU NEED IN ONE NE NEWSPAPER EWSPAPER TO ADVERTISE: 647-722-6298 • ONLINE: TORONTOCARIBBEAN.COM • V VO VOLUME OLUME 4 • IISSUE SS S SU UE E1 17 7 • WE W WEDNESDAY, EDNESDAY, O OCTOBER CT C TO OB BER ER 7 7TH TH T H 2015
CELEBRATING LEADERSHIP Photo: PRIYANKA STELLINGA/BEAUTIFUL MARK PHOTOGRAPHY
The United Way of Peel hosts the 2015 20 Black Leadership and Community Gala
ALYSSA MAHADEO/TORONTO CARIBBEAN When hard work and dedication pays off, it is important to take a minute to recognize those individuals that were an integral part of making things possible. On Saturday October 3rd, over 200 leaders and devoted residents gathered at Brampton’s Garden Banquet and Convention Centre, where the United Way of Peel Region hosted the Black Leadership and Community Gala. The event coincided with the celebration of the International Decade for People of African Decent, Black Leadership in the Community and their partnership with the United Way. The theme for the evening: “Now is the Time: Facing the Future Together” tied together with a key-
note address from The Honorable Justice Donald F. McLeod. The evening commenced with a high energy and entertaining performance put on by Ijo Vudu Dance International, waking up the audience with their thunderous drumming and good-natured spirits. Jahail Darby opened the stage with the singing of the Canadian and Black National Anthems before giving it over to the Master of Ceremonies for the evening Andray Domise. The first speaker introduced was Len Carby, Chair of the Black Community and Advisory Council (BCAC), who touched a bit on what the BCAC does within the community. “The Black Community
Advisory Council was established in 2010 to be voice and ears of the Black Community speaking to the vision and mission of the United Way of Peel to ensure that resources are allocated to the Black Community from within the United Way.” The BCAC aids the United Way in understanding the needs and challenges faced by the Black Community in Peel Region, and build stronger community relationships. “This evening is a more of a celebration of the accomplishments and the achievements as well as partnerships that we have secured within the community.” Continued On Page 7
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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Internationally acclaimed Reggae Gospel Artist Kay Morris: Humanitarian Multi-award winning and internationally acclaimed reggae Gospel singer/songwriter Kay Morris was born in Jamaica raised by her two Pentecostal Minister Parents. When she was fifteen, her mother migrated to the US, and so her father and grandmother brought her up until she came to Canada at the age of nineteen. Growing up in the church, she was raised with very spiritual teachings and a strong belief in God. Her parents instilled the values and principals of her faith laying out a foundation that would later be instrumental in shaping the woman she would become. When she was a child, her mother would visit churches across the island and preach. Her mother would bring impoverished children home and care for them, and so Kay grew up in an environment where it was second nature to care for those that were less fortunate. Kay attended George Brown College of Applied Arts and Technology and graduated with a Diploma in Medical Office Administration. She also attended Seminary (Bible School) and graduated from the School of Bible Theology Seminary and University with a Bachelor of Theology Degree and was also conferred with an Honorary Doctor of Divinity Degree. Kay started singing when she was only four years old. She sings with a passion that captivates her audience while also ministering. She has worked tremendously hard in order to explore and celebrate her musical and spiritual roots, which she has fully em-
braced from Canada, Africa and Jamaica. Her journey to becoming a humanitarian started through her music. Her multidimensional personality has allowed her the opportunity to demonstrate her many talents as an Ordained Minister, accomplished singer/songwriter, fashion designer and motivational speaker. Kay is the President of the Kay Morris Foundation in Canada and Ghana. Her non-profit work keeps her very busy advocating for many humanitarian causes around the world. As an International reggae gospel artist and Minister, she does a lot of travelling around the world ministering and carrying out missions in support of orphans, feeding the poor, advocating for people living with HIV/AIDS, Malaria and Maternal Mortality prevention. Through the work with her foundation she also provides Tools 2 Learn (school supplies) to elementary school children in Africa, The Caribbean and other parts of the world. Through all of her success Kay still deals with challenges when it comes to carrying out her humanitarian missions overseas. She takes every problem in stride, using each challenge as a learning experience, learning to strategically plan out every mission before it can be implemented. Kay is a very active church member at Light and Life Ministries and she I enjoys reaching out to support many of our local community initiatives. When she is at home, she spends her down-
time with her children and grandchildren. Kay aspires to continue being the voice of the voiceless. As a world changer, she feels a strong desire to continue helping to improve the lives of those who are not in a position to help themselves. She hopes to someday achieve building the Women Shed No More Tears Maternal Health Centre in Ghana, W. Africa to help save the lives of women who are dying while giving birth to children. She encourages other women to be the change and take the time to get involved in the community. By dedicating time to mentor youth, volunteer in a shelter, volunteer in a nursing home and help care for the elderly, or help to feed the homeless, it ignites a passion to make the world a better place. Kay Morris was presented with the Top Gospel Artist Award for 2015, at this year’s Caribbean Music and Entertainment Awards. Written by Alyssa Mahadeo Toronto Caribbean Reporter
Wednesday, October 7, 2015 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
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Caribbean Music Awards: Appreciating Caribbean musicians & entertainers in Canada Alyssa Mahadeo
alyssa@carib101.com
TC Reporter On Sunday September 27th, The Rose Theatre in Brampton played host to the 3rd Annual Caribbean Music and Entertainment Awards. Individuals and supporters of the Caribbean community came out to recognize and acknowledge the achievements of people in Canada who are from the Caribbean islands in the music and entertainment industry, their contributions to the industry and the making of the different genres of music that have shaped what the entertainment industry has become today. It was a night filled with recognition and reflection of the impact that Caribbean music genres have had here in Canada and an appreciation to all musicians and entertainers that have shared their many skills and talents with the world. The Caribbean Music & Entertainment Award was established in April 2010, hosted exclusively by PenPro Entertainment in Brampton. The awards were implemented to recognize entertainers regardless of age,
race, sex, religion, disability or nationality. President and CEO Penny Providence wanted to ensure that the diversity of the Caribbean islands would be included in the awards ceremony, as well as come together to build and acknowledge the people who are working hard for their respective communities. The evening comprised of various performances from the diverse backgrounds of the Caribbean islands. There are 36 different categories including Zouke, Reggae, Soca/Calypso, Steel Pan, Indo Caribbean, Latino & French Caribbean, Instrumentalists, dancers, comedians, actors, poets and many more. The audience was able to experience a Canadian Caribbean showcase of the very best in Reggae, Soca/Calypso, Zouk, Latin Music, Chutney, Theatre, Steel Pan and Comedy. MC’s Comedian Marc Trinidad and Top Latino Radio Host Keiter Feliz kept the audience entertained with their quick wit and sense of humor while they introduced winners and performances in each category. The first award of the night went to Top Young Artist – De Unstoppable Jr. Aneil Rai and youth educational bursaries were presented to Shaneice Anthony and Joshua Chin on behalf of Jamaica National Building Society. The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper carried home the award for Top Media Print Publication, and Caribbean Vibration was the recipient of the Top Media Television.
Awards for Top Radio Program went to Caribbean Sunshine 100.3 – DJ Narine for Chutney and G98.7 took home three awards for The Soca Groove with D’Enforcas for Soca/Calypso, Delroy G Showcase with Delroy Graham for Reggae/ Dancehall and Gospel Show with Mr. G and Alicia DaCosta. Top Comedian went to Maliaka Bryce, Top Live Play/Theatre went to Marcia Brown for I Need to Know My Father and the CMEA Community Awards went to Mr. Eddie Grant. For Top DJ’s recipients included Dr. Jay (Soca), DJ Danny Castro (Latino), Spex-Da Boss (Reggae) and DJ Navi De Unstoppable (Churtney). The awards for Top Steel Pan Group went to Pan Fantasy and Top Steel Pan Solo went to Joy Lapps. Some of the specialty awards that were received included, The Raymond McKnight Memorial Award – Jay Harmony Davis, The Lifetime Achievement Award Nana McLean, International Award for Reggae – Exco Levi, International Award Latino – Chantel Collado and the International award for Soca went to Kerwin DuBois. Top Band Awards went to Destiny Band (Chutney), Andi y Los Latinos (Latino), Fulla Sound Band (Reggae), Fraka (Zouk) and Level Exodus Band (Soca/Calypso). Top Afro Caribbean Drumming
went to Toronto All Stars Tassa Crew and Spice Island Drumming. Awards for the Top Dance Group went to Staya Dance Works, Strickly Salsa, and Ballet Creole in the Chutney, Latino and Caribbean/African/Creole categories. Finally the last set of awards were presented to the Top Artist in their category, King Fabuloso (Latino), Kaye Morris (Gospel), KI Persad (Chutney), Aldo Guizmo (Zouk/French Creole), Ammoye (Reggae/ Dancehall) and Joel “Connector” Davis (Calypso/Soca) Each recipient came up to receive their awards and took a few minutes to thank the community and all of their supporters. Throughout the night the audience enjoyed live performances by Joel “Connector” Davis, Jay Harmony Davis, Blizz Ft. Lenn Hammond, Destiny Band, Donna Makeda, Dhalia, Earl LaPierre, Chantel Collado and her Band, Toronto All Stars, Spice Island Drumming Ensemble and the highly esteemed Liberty Silver. Looking towards the future, there are hopes that this awards ceremony will someday cement its place as a premier event on the annual cultural calendar of Toronto, attracting hundreds of patrons to Toronto each year. With every year the Caribbean Music and Entertainment Awards is growing, getting bigger and better recognizing entertainers for all of their hard work and dedication to the industry.
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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Young entrepreneur Mark Antoine hustles hard to make big dreams a reality Alyssa Mahadeo
alyssa@carib101.com
TC Reporter You can either go hard or go home. That’s the attitude you have to take in a world where you either wait for the money to come to you, or you go out there and find it. The younger generation faces many challenges in a growing economy and for most; everyday is a struggle to get closer to fulfilling their dreams. For 20-year-old Mark Antoine, a humble and introverted student from Humber College, what started off as a hobby has now evolved into a business venture that he has big plans for in the future. Mark came to Canada when he was thirteen years old from the beautiful country of Grenada. He attended Cardinal Léger High School and is currently enrolled in the General Arts and Science Program at Humber College. Mark started his business right here in Brampton in April of 2014. He was interested in eco-friendly products, looking to create something that was useful as well as unique. He did some research and stumbled upon a durable nylon material, a heavy duty and strong material mainly used in camping equipment known formally as parachute
Nearly
cord. He has found a way to make it look stylish and chic for everyday wear by adding charms, words and beads in his designs to really make a statement. Mark’s creations range from parachute cord bracelets, key chains, custom designs as well as a range of wooden beaded bracelets, necklaces and whatever else his creative mind prompts him to make. Every single one of Mark’s creations is handmade by himself, and he spends 2-3 hours at a time crafting his bracelets, meticulously choosing each design braiding and stringing everything together, dedicating all of his efforts to making sure he always has a full stock so he can be ready to jump on any opportunity that might come his way. Mark’s designs come in all different colors and are unisex so anyone can enjoy them. He makes a lot of his business through the elementary and secondary school students, but tailors his stock to whichever crowd he is going to put his products in front of. Depending on the time of year, or what is popular in the world of fashion, Mark comes up with designs and ideas around major holidays and events, always keeping an ear open to hear what the customers demand. Once a year at his college, the school student association hosts the HSF Farmer’s Market which allows students to bring their product and sell it at the school for a few hours. There is never enough time at these events and Mark has taken it upon himself to seek out other events where he can sell his accessories. He has been able to display and sell his creations a various events hosted throughout the city such as Caribana,
Grenada Day, Jerk Fest and even during the World Cup and Pan-Am Games. This year he took a chance and got himself a booth at Carabram, taking a risk to see how he could use the event as an opportunity to network and make more business. The creative process has found a way to keep Mark productive in his down time, also finding himself a way to make some money at a young age. His business mind is always working, looking for new ways to market and sell his product, which he eventually wants to expand out into stores like American Eagle, Aldo Accessories or maybe even his very own Mall kiosk. Looking toward the immediate future, Mark wants to open up his own store on the Etsy Marketplace so that his creations can be available online and then launch his own website. Right now he is in the process of branding his product, and he has settled on the name WristSource, a creative and attractive name that says to ‘Be WristSourceful!’ Mark says enthusiastically “I would love to have the opportunity to pitch my company on Dragon’s Den.” Mark keeps himself busy as a Youth Group Facilitator at Cassie Campbell in Brampton, as well as being a full-time college student. He is driven, and hard working young man, but knows exactly what he wants. The time that he has spent dedicated to building his business is a reflection of someone who goes after what they want regardless of what it takes. He is part of the young generation that will be making waves in the future to come.
Photo: MARK LEGENDRE MK PHOTOGRAPHY
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Wednesday, October 7, 2015 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
Scarboroughʼs only Youth Centre set to close its doors
Emily Singh
emily@carib101.com
TC Reporter Imagine being forced out of the place you call home and onto the streets. For more than forty teenagers and young adults at the Second Base Youth Shelter this could become a harsh reality for them. The shelters board of directors voted back in June to close its doors for good but the clock is ticking now. The shelter is set to close down as early as October 20, which leaves the community with very little time to take action. The reason for this closure as cited by the board of directors is financial problems, however it was revealed that under the previous management the shelter was in fact operating with a surplus budget of $32,000. Ex-Executive Director of Scarborough’s Second Base Youth Shelter Marika Goode created a Care2 petition to help keep the shelter open. With a target of 4,000 signatures before October 20, Goode is well on her way with a staggering 3,822 supporters behind her. The Second Base Youth Shelter is Scarborough’s only emergency youth shelter.
The shelter provides youths ages 16 though 21 a safe haven where they are provided with emergency beds and hot meals. In addition to that they also provide counseling, clothing, TTC tickets, showers, employment and health services and even high school equivalency classes. The shelter aims to help equip young people who are going through difficult times with the tools they need to go out and live enriched lives. Financial records from 2014 indicated that the shelter received a $25,000 grant from Home Depot for repairs, a $10,000 donation from the United Way and $10,853 from the city for a meal program, but only used $2,500 of the money. Following its closure, the youth will need to be transferred to surrounding adult shelters, which could prove to be a detrimental move. Youth shelters are designed to cater to young people and foster a safe and comfortable environment especially for them. Another issue is that many of the youth shelters in Toronto are at capacity. Goode along with other former employees of the shelter are calling for the current management to step aside and allow for change. Since opening its doors in 1993, the Second Base Youth Shelter at 702 Kennedy Road has served over 41,000 hot meals each year to Scarborough youths. To sign the petition log onto www. thepetitionsite.com/854/164/706/.
Sir. Dr. Raphael Louis seeking to become Canadaʼs first Afro Canadian Prime Minister
Emily Singh
emily@carib101.com
TC Reporter His Excellency Sir. Dr. Raphael Louis is seeking to become Canada’s first Afro Canadian Prime Minister during the 2020 elections. His Excellency Sir. Dr. Raphael Louis will be the keynote speaker at the WONM- traditional, natural and integral conference that will be held on October 24th at the Toronto East Radisson Hotel between the hours of 9 am to 5 pm. Leading the National Coalition Party of Canada (NCPC) the main pillar of Louis’s platform will be the Canadian healthcare reform. The issue at hand is that most Canadians do not realize that the Canadian healthcare system is in crisis and something needs to be
done now. The rising cost of healthcare costs in Canada is putting tremendous pressure not only on families but also practitioners, enterprises and the government at every level. The NCPC has launched its healthcare reform campaign initiatives that will in turn lead to sustainable government reform. This will increase the capacity of governments, civil societies and corporate stakeholders to make evidence based decisions and implementation on key health issues affecting Canadians. This will truly be history in the making, as the revelation of where the healthcare system is at currently will astonish you. Prepare to be enlightened as you can support the NCPC’s mission to preserve traditional, natural and integrative medicine as a viable choice for all Canadians. The conference is primarily practitioner based but as per the request of Dr. Louis the session on Saturday, October 24 is open to the public. Please call 416-492-6725 to reserve your seat and listen to what Dr. Louis has to say. Seating is limited to the first 30 callers. This is something you do not want to miss.
community
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Photo: PRIYANKA STELLINGA BEAUTIFUL MARK PHOTOGRAPHY
United Way of Peel 2015 Gala Alyssa Mahadeo
alyssa@carib101.com
TC Reporter Continued From Page 1 -- There were many leaders in attendance including Honorary Chair Chief Mbulu, Mayor Linda Jeffery, Mayor Bonnie Crombie and Police Chief Jennifer Evans who attended the gala to show their support and applaud the impact that was made possible by bringing community leaders together to tackle the diverse issues in Peel. “I got involved because I live in peel, my wife and children live in Peel, and I want to highlight the positive things that are being done to better the community.” shared Chief Emmanuel Mubulu Honorary Gala
Chair for the Black Community Advisory Council. Chief Mubulu is no stranger to issues that the Black Community face, coming from his own personal struggle to make his place in the world. This year the BCAC has been working hard to secure partnerships with other groups in the community to engage the Black Community and encourage them to be more proactive in activities that will create solutions and leave a lasting positive change in people’s lives. They are most proud of their partnership with Big Brothers and Big Sisters to engage and mentor black youth across Peel. This program partners black men and women, with youth to provide guidance and mentorship, encouraging youth to talk about the issues they face, and help them problem solve, to keep them pointed in the right direction. Many leaders commended the BCAC on their work within the community such as President and CEO of the United Way of Peel Region, Shelly White who shared, “Tonight is about a celebration of culture and achievements in the Black Com-
munity and the work that BCAC is doing with Big Brothers and Big Sisters as well as with Faces. What we are doing together will start initiatives that we can implement in all other aspects of the community in Peel.” Keynote Speaker, The Honorable Justice Donald F. McLeod, brought to light some of the key issues that faces the black community such as high school drop out rates and parent’s attentiveness to the educational needs of their children. “Poor academic performance and low achievement creates a domino effect, begetting limited access to employment and snowballing into physical and mental health issues related to hopelessness and alienation in the establishment of racialized poverty,” he explains. “The root of the matter and the issue at hand has more to do with the education of our children in order for us to determine what we are going to do with next steps.” He went on to further explain that the majority of Black men in the community represent a high percentage of high school dropouts, and those in jail. “Black parents seem to be called out for their lack of involvement and we need to take re-
sponsibility for our children’s success.” After that moving, empowering and motivating call to action, the audience was treated with a performance by a group of four young dancers, Tyrese Liddell, Zyanna Rodrigues-Wishart, Xeryus Liddell and Alexander Panetta. They are between the ages of 9-12 and are currently members of the Toronto Raptors Lil Ballas Dance Team. They broke it down with a hip-hop routine that would put most adults to shame, earning themselves a standing ovation. The night ended with a beautiful and engaging song by Anika Marie an up and coming R&B Gospel Artist who is all about love, faith and positivity. There are 116,255 Black citizens of Peel representing 9% of the Peel Region Population. Between 2001 and 2011 the Black Community grew by 64% and 44% of the Black population in Peel are children and youth. If you would like to get involved in the efforts of United Way Peel Region or would like more information on the Black Community and Advisory Council please visit: www.unitedwaypeel.org
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news
Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Toronto Caribbean launches Christmas Toy Drive giving back to the community Corp.
Alyssa Mahadeo
alyssa@carib101.com
TC Reporter With the year drawing to a close and Christmas just around the corner Toronto Caribbean has launched their very first Christmas Toy Drive in hopes of spreading joy to the children in the community this holiday season. “It is important for us to do this for the community, because the community supports us and we are in a position where we are able to help out and give back,” says Trish Browning one of the owners of the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper. “It’s the right thing to do,” urges Grant Browning CEO of Carib101 Media
In the spirit of giving back, Toronto Caribbean invites those who would like to contribute to drop off any unwrapped toys or donations to the Toronto Caribbean (Carib101 Media Corp.) office located at 55 Rutherford Road South Unit 205, in Brampton anytime from Monday to Friday from 9:30am-6:00pm. Every year many organizations make it their personal mission to give back to the community whether it be through a clothing, food or toy drive. The holiday season has always been a time of spreading love and joy to those families who need it most. Many low-income families that reside in Brampton have difficulties making ends meet. For those of us who are privileged it is important that we use our resources in a positive way and provide those who are less fortunate with the opportunity to experience the better quality of life they deserve. By donating toys to the children this holiday season, you will be providing a Christmas that many of these children
might not have had. Their parents and families spend all year working hard for what they have and this is the least that we can do to ensure we can provide a little happiness and a smile at Christmas time. All of the toys donated will be given out on December 19th from 1-3pm at Coconut Breeze restaurant 168 Kennedy Road South in Brampton. Children and their families can enjoy great company amongst fellow members of the community and children will have the opportunity to meet Santa and receive their presents. If you would like to recommend a family in need to be invited and included as part of this wonderful event please let us know by contacting our office at 647-7226298. FEEL GREAT ABOUT YOUR CONTRIBUTION TO THE COMMUNITY!! LET’S HELP MAKE CHRISTMAS SPECIAL FOR THOSE CHILDREN WHO MIGHT OTHERWISE NOT HAVE ONE!
PPP bungled fibre-optic cable project - President Granger says its dead, waste of money GUYANA -- “Dead; a waste of money,” is how President David Granger described the bungled fibre-optic cable project started under the People’s Progressive Party administration.“We would like to feel that the fibre optic cable we inherited is dead, there is no indication that it could be revived, it would have to be done all over again and we are tendering for that. It is not possible to rehabilitate what we have found on the ground. It is just a bad project; it is just a waste of money,” said Granger when asked to provide an update on the status and future plan for that project. The project referenced by Granger is the Brazil-Guyana Fibre-Optic cable that commenced in 2011. The aim being to, establish among other things, a database hub for all government agencies. Improved internet access was expected to be part of the package. In June, Minister of State Joseph Harmon told the media that Guyana has accumulated US76, 000 debt for internet connectivity though the country has not yet benefitted from the project. He announced that government would be re-entering discussions with Brazil on the project to see if a better deal can be arrived at. Noting that the project absorbed millions of taxpayers’ dollars, it is expected that over the next few months discussions will be had on ‘value for money’ with respect to that project. The Fibre-Optic cable project falls under the former government’s Information Communication Technology (ICT) Initiative. The US$32M Government’s EGovernance unit is focused on two aspects of ICT namely transmission network which speaks to the fibre-optic cable network that allows for high speed data, voice
and video communication and data network where there would be a centralised system that will accommodate government ICT plans, provide internet service and the like. Early 2012, (former) Project head, Alexi Ramotar, who is also former President Donald Ramotar’s son, said that the laying of the 560 kilometers conduit was done and has been hooked up to ‘Oi’, the Brazilian telecommunications provider that was expected to provide Guyana access to the rest of the world. In November of the same year, it was reported to Cabinet that in addition to the fibre-optic cable, five repeater stations along the Lethem to Georgetown route have been constructed but in September it was reported in the press that Government was experiencing difficulty with the fibre optic cable project. Since then questions have surfaced about the feasibility of the project and the benefits to be received by the Guyanese people. In April this year, the former government announced that the damaged fibre-optic cable was being rehabilitated by Dax Contracting Services managed by Faisal Mohamed and would be completed six months after. However following the change of government, it was discovered that Mohamed through his company was benefitting from a lucrative deal. Dax’s contract has since been terminated by the current administration. The US$32M three component project was aimed at connecting government units along the Linden-Lethem road and the coastland with good quality connectivity. The other two components included a cable from Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast, through Georgetown to Moleson Creek, East Berbice, and a data Centre
with 54 towers that will create a wireless network. Meanwhile, President Granger said where other aspects of information technology are concerned, Government has examined the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) located in Turkeyen and is in the process of “creating a new regime, which would probably be merged with the National Data Management Authority” He noted that “it is too soon to tell but work is being done to improve our bandwidth, our interconnectivity, improve access to the internet countrywide, particularly for education also for business. In fact, there are no limits to information and communications technology.” President Granger strongly believes that Guyanese need to “get out of this one laptop mentality”. “We must get out of the mentality of where we give these devices as toys or trinkets at Christmas time and give people wider access. Every single government building must have access, every school, university, hospital, every police station … we just have to catch up with the rest of the world and we are much too slow.” Notwithstanding the challenges faced, President Granger said a stronger department is being set up within the Ministry of the Presidency that will coordinate the NDMA which has been “reduced, underutilized for the last 20 years.” A “super structure” he said is being created to have a greater impact on business, education and e-governance.” The entire E-governance structure is currently being revamped. - Guyana Chronicle
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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Remigrant takes fish processing to new heights –to launch new brand of local salted-fish GUYANA -- Global Seafood Distributors in West Ruimveldt will, on Wednesday, commission its solar fish-dryer as part of its expansion drive, which is opening more employment opportunities for persons in the community. The dryer is all set to launch a brand of salted fish under the name, ‘Butters and Grant House of Salt Fish.’ Remigrant Allison Butters-Grant, who has been operating a fish-processing plant in the West Ruimveldt Industrial Site for just over a year, had managed a similar business in New Jersey, USA. During an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Butters-Grant said that her company decided to invest close to G$1M in the solar fish-dryer to boost its capacity to meet customer demand, even during prolonged inclement weather. The company now does value-added processing of grey snapper, banga mary, trout and other wild-catch fish, producing such products as seasoned fish, fish fillet, nuggets, steak, headless and head-on fish. Butters-Grant, who is the Chief Executive Officer and president of the company, said she is no stranger to fish processing, as her parents were owners of shrimping trawlers. She was born into the fishing business right here in Guyana, before she migrated to the United States where she spent 29 years. Meanwhile, President David Granger is scheduled to commission the solar dryer at a simple ceremony at the company’s West Ruimveldt facility. Butters-Grant explained to this publication that the company currently employs 15 persons, and that based on its expansion projection, it expects to provide employment for as many as 200 persons. Already, when the workload gets beyond the norm, an additional 10 persons are added to the 15 staffers already on board. According to the CEO, the company ensures that it spends quality time cleaning its products so that customers would be p spared that chore at home. ‘WE EAT WHAT WE SELL’
Global Seafood Distributors, according to Butters-Grant, pays keen attention to quality and standards that are equivalent to those offered in the United States, and the company can boast, “We eat what we sell.” The solar fish-dryer, which is already in operation, received support from the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and its Chief Executive Officer Dr. Oudho Homenauth. During consultations with NAREI, the company was allowed to take samples of the fish it processes to the East Coast location where NAREI has similar equipment that is used only to dry herbs. A variety of fish was placed into the dryer in a separate section and within three days they were ready for packaging and distribution. It was after that confirmation that the CEO of Global Seafood realised that she could invest in the dryer. She was provided with a special type of plastic (Ultra Violet) that is used to regulate the amount of sunlight that enters the dryer. There was also the procurement of translucent sheets for the roofing of the dryer and another regulator to determine the amount of lighting that enters the dryer. According to Allison Butters-Grant, there can be no airborne agents to contaminate the products because the entire dryer is completely covered. Prior to being converted to the operational centre for Global Seafood Distributors, the location had a ketchup factor and then a fish processing plant that was operated by another company. In its expansion drive, Global Seafood is pursuing water and waste management as well as development of byproducts. The CEO told the Guyana Chronicle that the company sees a lot of opportunities within the industry and is willing to take up the challenge posed by President Granger in advocating product diversification and valueadded expansion. y - Guyana Chronicle
Surveys for new Demerara Harbour Bridge to begin soon GUYANA -- The Public Infrastructure Ministry will soon commission the requisite surveys, including soil composition, distance, cost and skill availability, on both banks of the Demerara River in order to determine the most feasible location for a new bridge. The Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB), at its present location, crosses the Demerara River 4 miles (6.4 km) south of Georgetown from Peter’s Hall, East Bank Demerara to Schoonord, West Bank Demerara. The 6,074-foot (1,851 m) floating toll bridge was commissioned on 2nd July 1978 and was designed to last only 10 years. As it ages, the need for repairs to the flotation units, retractor spans, electrical systems and almost every component of the structure becomes more constant and costly. Its bitumen surface has also degraded significantly. According to the ministry, there is need for a new structure since thousands of people utilise the existing bridge for their daily commute to work, to shop, to transport produce, to attend school, to access the two airports, the Essequibo Coast, Bartica and some hinterland regions. Meanwhile, as government continues to actively pursue the construction of another bridge across the Demerara River, authorities have given assurance that the current structure remains in “fairly good” shape.
The DHB management is now moving to introduce night retractions to help reduce the daily congestion that occurs when it is closed to vehicular traffic. The final report of the prefeasibility study which was done for the construction of a new DHB was released in October 2013 by then Public Works and Hydraulics Minister Robeson Benn. According to the report, a new high-level, four-lane fixed- bridge structure at Houston, Greater Georgetown, to Versailles on the West Bank of Demerara, is the only economically feasible alternative. The document estimates that the cost would be some US$264M. Over the past year, the DHB administration has had to spend in excess of $337 million replacing major components on the structure. Three pontoons were fabricated at a cost of $134 million, while another 18 were serviced utilising some $96.7 million. In one instance, the bridge had collapsed, leaving persons stranded in Georgetown while others were forced to travel in speedboats at night in an effort to reach their destinations. Talks about the possibility of a new bridge have been ongoing for more than a decade, after it was acknowledged that the lifespan of the existing floating bridge was coming to an end. - Guyana Chronicle
Wednesday, October 7, 2015 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
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T&T close to overdraft limit TRINIDAD -- Gas prices increased Monday, former property tax levels return from January 2016 and NIS contribution rates rise next July but the new People’s National Movement Government’s first Budget has kept various election promises, including VAT reduction, increased retirees’ benefits and certain personal tax exemptions. This despite a negative picture of the economy painted by Finance Minister Colm Imbert, whose two-hour Budget presentation, carried from the start, a running theme of economic mismanagement by the past People’s Partnership administration. Saying the economy is in an “even more perilous state” than the new Government first envisaged, he added: “In order to maintain its inordinate and unsustainable levels of expenditure, the previous government maxed out our overdraft at the Central Bank, taking us from a positive cash position in 2010 to a perilous situation in 2015, where we were running on ‘fumes’, dangerously close to the legal overdraft limit.” Presenting a $63 billion Budget to see T&T through 2015- 2016, Imbert, in Parliament, added: “...We have laid bare the true state of T&T’s finances... we believe that in order to pull ourselves out of the difficulties which the previous administration has put this country in, through corruption and rampant squandermania, we require the collective efforts of all... “I wish to make a clarion call to all to rally around our programme and policies. Our Budget theme reflects this vision: Restoring Confidence and Rebuilding Trust — Let’s Do This Together.” The PNM’s Budget is smaller than the PP’s last 2015 Budget of $68 billion. It also carries a smaller deficit — 1.7 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) — than the last PP deficit. Following wide consultations over the next six months on the state of the economy and T&T’s financial challenges, Imbert said Government would make appropriate budgetary adjustments “if required” in the March 2016 mid-year review, to ensure the Budget is a comprehensive regime for restoring longterm discipline. Presenting the package a month after PNM’s September 7 election victory, Imbert said Government relied heavily on policies and programmes of its 2015 election manifesto. The Budget was based on an oil price of US$45 and gas price of US$2.75 per mmbtu. National security received the largest
allocation, $10 .810 billion. Among announcements affecting the public pocket, effective Monday, the price of super gas increased by 15 per cent from $2.70 a litre to $3.11 a litre. Diesel gas also increased from $1.50 a litre to $1.72 a litre. Imbert said that would reduce the fuel subsidy by $340 million. He said annual subsidies have placed consistent, adverse pressure on T&T’s fiscal accounts. Government is embarking on a fuel subsidy regime in consultation with stakeholders soon, he said. The existing Property Tax Act (2009) will also be implemented “with a view to having a fair and equitable property tax regime in place by January 1, 2016, using old levels and rates as a starting point.” Special provisions will be put in place to ensure the elderly and indigent with fixed low incomes are not disadvantaged wherever they may reside, he said. Imbert added that the PP’s removal of the tax had cost $1 billion. To obtain its fair share of taxes from the gaming sector, Government will also expedite gaming legislation and implement a gaming regulatory system next year. The PNM’s planned Revenue Authority will also be re-started and should be in place by next September, he said. Imbert added that he would introduce National Insurance System legislation to increase all earnings class limits by 13.5 per cent, with the maximum insurable earnings class limit increasing from $12,000 to $13,600. He said NIS contribution rates will also be increased from 12.0 per cent to 13.2 per cent effective July 4, 2016.
income tax exemption limits from $60,000 to $72,000. Effective January 2016, this exempts from tax all taxpayers earning $6,000 monthly and less. Saying the foreign exchange situation is untenable, Imbert said the Central Bank would be told to re-establish the Forex distribution which existed prior to 2014. The bank will also be asked to clear the backlog of arrears of Forex demand, ensure legitimate demands are met and ensure the stability of the exchange rate. He assured Government would make its best efforts to bring the Clico matter to an amicable conclusion. Government also intends to give the Judiciary the financial autonomy it has requested, including to manage its resources, procurement and construction of facilities. This is projected to be achieved by the end of 2016. Discussions have also started with the Inter Development Bank on an affordable mass transit system option. An investment decision is expected before the end of the fiscal year. Imbert’s detailed accusations of PP economic mismanagement included that public expenditure rose 33 per cent over the last five years, from $46.7 billion in 2010 to $62 billion for 2015. He added: “Notwithstanding billions of dollars in borrowings, tax amnesties, extraordinary dividends, sale of assets and high oil and gas prices, our cash balances at the Treasury moved from a positive $6.5 billion on May 24, 2010, we were in credit then, to a negative of $8.5 billion in the middle of September 2015, a reversal of $15.0 billion. “What this means is that we are unable to use the resources of our surplus funds, including the Green Fund or the Unemployment Fund, since they are pledged against the overdraft and are unavailable for drawdown.” He said the PP had also left the PNM with $5 billion to be paid on collective agreements. Saying T&T needs a programme of economic adjustment, Imbert called on the private sector and labour movement to work with Government on solutions. He said the economy’s recovery would depend critically on the private sector’s reaction to the improved business environment and other measures being introduced. - Trinidad Guardian
Manifesto promises In keeping with the party’s election promises, Imbert said effective December 1 the cap on joint incomes received by retirees regarding NIS and old age pension will be $5,000, giving recipients an additional $500 monthly. From January also, a retirees benefits programme being created will provide free drivers’ permits and passports for those 60 and over. Discounts on utility bills for other categories of retirees will be introduced later. While reducing the 15 per cent VAT rate to $12.5 per cent and increasing the threshold for VAT registration from $360,000 to $500,000, from January Imbert said he intended to broaden the VAT base by reviewing and adjusting exemptions and zero-rated items (luxury/non essentials). Government also increased personal
Biggest slice for crime control TRINIDAD -- Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley Monday defended his Government’s allocation of the largest portion of the national Budget to national security, saying the crime problem was a major national concern. He was speaking during an interview with reporters following Monday’s two-hour 2016 Budget presentation by new Finance Minister Colm Imbert in the House of Representatives, Tower D, Wrightson Road, Port-ofSpain. Speaking in the lobby of the Parliament, Rowley said the more than $10 billion allocated to national security “should be a matter of serious concern to the national population.” He said that was because in every Budget since the People’s National Movement (PNM) first assumed office in 1956, education was given the largest allocation. According to Rowley, the decision to allocate the largest portion to national security was because of “a chronic and rampant criminal conduct in T&T. “That is the dollarising of crime and this should let the population know that crime is having a serious effect on the population. “We just cannot go on that way. We have to treat and roll back the cost of criminal activity in this country. Otherwise, if it contin-
ues like that, we keep funnelling money away from health, education and other productive areas trying to cope with the crime of hopefully a small minority,” he added. He said dealing with the crime problem was an assignment for the Government and “we are currently reviewing what we have been doing in responding to the criminal element and we intend in very short order to conduct a major manpower audit of the security apparatus of T&T.” Rowley said that audit was intended “to determine what we have available, how it is being used and how we can improve upon it.” There was a record 50 murders in T&T last month. The Prime Minister was also asked to comment on the Government Assistance for Tuition Expenses (GATE) programme. He said the funding for tertiary education was to be reviewed because of the prevailing economic conditions. Rowley said funding for GATE was being challenged because the country’s income had been cut by 50 per cent. He said based on those conditions “should we set about to provide for those who really do not need it or should we proceed to ensure that those who need it get it, under the reduced income by having a means test.”
According to Rowley “citizens who can pay their way will be asked to do so in the not too distant future — either part way or whole way — and others who without Government help will not be able to advance, they are guaranteed that support.” The Prime Minister said any existing wastage and corruption under the programme would be eliminated. Dealing with measures to reduce the annual billion dollar fuel subsidy, which Rowley said “in some instances it benefit most of those who are better able to afford it.” Commenting on the Children Life Fund, set up by the previous Kamla PersadBissessar regime, Rowley said there were serious concerns with the initiative. The fund was established, via contributions from the former Government ministers and other contributions, to help children in need of costly medical attention abroad. “A number of those situations are already before the Fraud Squad (and) that indicates to us that there was something wrong in there,” Rowley said. He said the fund would be audited and improvements in its management implemented. - Trinidad Guardian
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Wednesday, October 7, 2015 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
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Holness promises national health insurance scheme JAMAICA -- Opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) leader Andrew Holness has reaffirmed that a government led by him will establish a national health insurance scheme and remove fees in schools up to secondary level. “I want to commit to you Monday that the Jamaica Labour Party, when we return to Government, will make it easier for you to educate your children,” Holness announced at the latest of the JLP’s ‘Poverty to Prosperity’ series in Mandeville last week. “We will remove, as we did in 2007, tuition fees and any other fee by any other name,” Holness told supporters. “We make a commitment to the young people of this country who have fulfilled the social contract of going to school, become qualified, stayed out of trouble, but have no work at the end of that period... I make a commitment that we
will develop and implement a system of national apprenticeship to ensure that our young school leavers will have a chance to work and learn and earn,” he added. He said the JLP believed in “free tuition to the secondary level, and as our country grows and the economy expands we will move that to the tertiary level. That is our commitment, to expand the rights of citizens to education”. Regarding health care, Holness is proposing an insurance pool that would attract contributions proportional to earnings which, he said, would be similar to the National Insurance Scheme (NIS). “The wise government shares the cost according to how you can manage it. We propose to establish an insurance pool to help to fund the health care system where you can contribute according to how you earn. In the same way you contribute to the NIS, the same way we
ask you to contribute to manage the health care system so it can deliver to you when you turn up at the hospital,” said Holness. The Opposition leader said the proposed policies on education and health were meant to strengthen the family structure which, he suggested, was under attack because of the approach by the ruling People’s National Party (PNP) Government. Noting that “crime is making our economy difficult, crime is taking away our productivity, crime is destroying our family, crime is taking away our loved ones, crime is messing our future as a country”, Holness said any government run by him would return the country to law and order. And Holness reiterated that changes regarding Jamaica’s final court of appeal and removal of the contentious buggery law should be decided by referendum.
“If there is to be any change to what we understand to be the fundamental definition of our society, then any such change must be brought to the public in a grand referendum,” said Holness. “If the CCJ (Caribbean Court of Justice) is to become the final Court of Appeal [replacing the British Privy Council], if the Buggery Act is to be removed, then all those issues must be brought to the people of Jamaica in a grand referendum, but the Jamaica Labour Party recognises that there is a duty for tolerance, to protect and preserve the human rights of every single Jamaican. “There must never be any discrimination against any Jamaican because of race, class, creed, or sexuality,” the Opposition leader added. - Jamaica Observer
Holness links party affiliation to his upbringing by Mom JAMAICA -- Opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) leader Andrew Holness struck an unusually personal note when he addressed Labourites in this central highlands town last Thursday at the latest in his party’s ‘Poverty to Prosperity’ series. Seeking to underline what he said were essential differences between the JLP and the ruling People’s National Party (PNP), Holness framed his arguments in the context of his own childhood and upbringing. “I was born on the 22nd of July 1972. My father is a die-hard Socialist, and my mother is a die-hard Labourite,” Holness told supporters in the conference hall of Manchester High School. “At the age of 14 when I go spend time with my father, I am reading Karl Marx’s Das Kapital, an essay on socialism and communism. “And when I go back to Spanish Town, my mother tell me save, study hard, work hard, don’t beg, don’t grudge nobody, be disciplined. That is the core principle and philosophy of a Labourite,” Holness said to loud and prolonged cheers. The 19th century German economist and philosopher Karl Marx and his countryman, Friedrich Engels, are routine-
ly considered as founders of that stream of socialist theory referred to as Marxism. Marx’s classic Das Kapital is a landmark socialist critique of capitalist economy. Holness also contextualised his own Christian names, Andrew Michael. “When I was born in 1972, my father wanted to call me Michael and my mother said ‘no way, it’s Andrew Michael’,” he said. “I am who I am Monday because my fundamental beliefs are in a system of merit, a system of hard work, that if you play by the rules you may be rewarded, that if you work hard you will be rewarded,” he said. “We (JLP) believe in creating wealth and sharing prosperity, and not creating poverty and sharing up poverty; and we are not ashamed to say we want to create wealth and make this country better. It is the thinking that has held us back as a people and that thinking has been cultivated and promoted by the PNP philosophy that has caused a pall of doom and gloom on the country for far too long. I am here to lift that pall...,” said Holness. Back in 2011, Holness’s father, Morris Holness, a resident of St Elizabeth, told the Sunday Observer that his son’s
middle name was the result of his admiration for PNP icon Michael Manley, who became prime minister in 1972 on a platform of ‘Better must come’. Manley would later advocate democratic socialism, building strong links with neighbouring Cuba and other socialist countries, and attracting the ire of the United States and its Western allies at the height of the so-called Cold War. The senior Holness, who in 2011 described himself as a Christian Socialist, had also said at the time that his son was an avid reader as a boy. “As he comes to the house... he grabs a book,” Morris Holness said in 2011 of his young son’s visits to his home in St Elizabeth. Holness told Labourites in Mandeville on Thursday that the next parliamentary election which is constitutionally due in over a year, but which many are expecting before the end of 2015, will address the “issues” despite what he said were PNP efforts to “trick” the people. “This election is about changing the conversation from poverty to prosperity. This election is about uplifting the people. This election will be fought on the issues, if I have to walk to every sin-
gle community and every single house to preach the doctrine and gospel...,” he said. Against the backdrop of what he said was the PNP’s tendency to try to “trick” people, Holness urged Jamaicans to consider why the PNP were set on an early election. “If everything is fine and everything is going well, why call an [early] election, why not just wait [till elections constitutionally become due] why? I ask Jamaicans to think about that,” said Holness. He recalled that in late 2011 when he served for a brief period as prime minister at the tailend of the JLP Administration, he had not attempted to trick Jamaicans. “When I stood on the platform and I had to face the balls being bowled by IMF (International Monetary Fund), I did not seek to trick the people of Jamaica,” he said. “I want to bring the citizens along with me, I don’t want to fool the people of Jamaica... I don’t want to sing you a lullaby... I know the people of this country are tired of lullaby being sung to them...” Holness said. - Jamaica Observer
Wednesday, October Octto ob be err 7, 7, 2015 20 2 01 15 5 | www.torontocaribbean.com | T To Toronto orro or ont nto Caribbean Ca C arriib bb bean
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JAS Supermarket; A family run business with the love of the community in mind Located at 9025 Torbram Road in the plaza right on the corner of Torbram and Queen, Jas Supermarket has been catering to the needs of Brampton’s diverse and multicultural community for many years. On Oct 1st, they celebrated their ten year anniversary, contributing to a decade of great value and customer service. Jas Supermarket specializes in foods from all around the world. They carry a wide selection of ethnic foods, fresh fish, meat and international produce. The owners Jasvir and Urmela Singh have lived here in Brampton for years, dedicating much of their time and efforts to providing quality imported products for the personal and nutritious needs of the community. Living and working in Brampton has allowed them to grow with the ever changing community, learning everyday what products are in high demand, providing customers with the good old fashion and exotic taste of back home. Jasvir is from Punjab, India, while Urmela is from Guyana. The east meets west in this marriage, contributing to the best mix of quality and affordable products from countries all over the world. They go the extra mile to ensure that they meet customer demands and when there is a product that they don’t have in store, they make sure to have it the next time the customer comes in to purchase.
Urmela and Jasvir love running a small local family business, because it is close to home and they are able to work for themselves. Although they work long hours and spend most of their days at the store, they enjoy the flexibility that it allows, giving them time to spend with their children and family. “It’s hard to find suitable employees and reliable people that you can trust,” shares Urmela. “We prefer to keep our business running by helping each other and with the help of the children.” Their kids, Nav, Manvir, Sarah and David Singh are as much invested in the family business as they are, helping their parents with day-to-day responsibilities in the store when they aren’t at their own jobs, or in school. Their daughter Nav has taken over the store bakery taking orders for cakes, cupcakes, pastries and other baked goods that are sold when she has the time to put them together. Jas Supermarket considers themselves an East-West Indian and African Grocery store. Their selection of produce ranges from fresh fruits and vegetables such as mangoes both green and ripe, lychee, genip, lemons, limes, guava, melons, noni, sour sop, sapodilla, pineapple, star fruit, sugar cane, hot peppers, red, green and yellow sweet peppers, tomatoes fig, ocra, pumpkin, plaintain, breadfruit, cassava, eggplant, yams, coconuts,
string beans, snow peas, squash, avocado, beets, radishes and any other items that you would normally find growing back home. The list goes on and on, but if you want it Jas Supermarket is sure to carry it. Their Caribbean butcher and meat shop, carries a wide selection of all Halal meats, including hens, drake and goat, as well as a variety of fish such as fresh trout, herring, hassa, gilbaka, amongst many others imported straight from the Caribbean islands. Jas Supermarket sells everything you need from clothing to baked goods, movies and music. They have a fully stocked religious section for all of your Pooja needs with murtis, incense and all of the necessary items that you need on demand. Coming up next month for Diwali they expect to be very busy, with many of their customers celebrating the festival of lights they will come into the supermarket looking for diyas, malas and a selection of ingredients to make all of the sweets, and snacks to enjoy during the holiday season. Jas Supermarket is a family run, family orientated and community involved small business. They have a great relationship with all of their customers and the children are very involved within the community. Over the years they have sponsored many community events in an effort to give back to the city and aid in
building stronger relationships making a difference where they can. Currently they support a local project that fights against bullying, creating art by writing and painting motivational words on a canvas creating a work of art. They work closely with the city of Brampton and the youth to ensure a bright future ahead for young residents who will continue to call Brampton home. Since arriving in Brampton, the owners of Jas Supermarket have planted their roots deep, enjoying the close, tight knit communities Brampton is made up of and most importantly, where they continue to build and nurture their homes. Without the time and dedication that it takes to run a small business everything would fall apart. Jas Supermarket strives to be a one-stop shop for all of Brampton’s EastWest Indian and African residents, discriminating against no one and inviting everyone to come into their supermarket and experience the flavors of the various cultures. There are no future plans to expand, but they have grown comfortable and are considering maybe perhaps having a franchise take over the bakeshop and have it open full time. If you are ever out in East Brampton, stop by Jas Supermarket, they won’t disappoint!
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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Reigning Monarch challenges ʻhustleʼ industry mindset Aba Luke
aba@carib101.com
Entertainment Ricardo Drue, the Jumpy Soca Monarch King of Antigua for a second consecutive year, is admitting that there’s much more work to be done. Having adopted quite a strong work ethic and in recent time, seen marketing efforts enforced by his team, work to his benefit, Drue says he’s happy with the result, but admits there remains a level of stage confidence and comfort that he yearns to attain. With that admission, the young entertainer who’s been a part of the Roy Cape family for some time now, is promising supporters more work and even better delivery when he hits stages across Trinidad and Tobago in the Carnival season ahead. “Professional”, a new smash sin-
gle that’s been turning the airwaves inside out, already assuring his space on the soca scene in 2016, Drue remains focused. “I have another release set to hit the airwaves by the end of the month. It’s on the Harmony Riddim, produced by 1stKlase, and it features artistes like Kees, Lyrikal and Skinny Fabulous” he said. Separately, he also has a third song set for release. It was created in tandem with the producer who gave him “Vagabond” in 2015- a track that turned out to be a monster hit this year. “Roots is great to work with. He’s one of those people I really admire because of his work ethic and his production skills,” he said. With true humility, Ricardo admits there are a few people in the soca music industry who’ve inspired him to strive for greatness. He says young producer, 1stKlase is one of those people. Likewise, he mentioned songwriter and vocalist, Preedy who’s proving to be one to watch on the soca music circuit. He says Erphaan Alves, a fellow up and comer in the business, is also a source of inspiration to him and he celebrates the victories of each of his counterparts. Likewise, Drue says the heavy-
weights in the industry, Machel Montano, Destra Garcia, Bunji Garlin, Blaxx and others have constructed the foundation for the new generation of soca music makers and personally, he’ll always be thankful to them. Ricardo Drue is learning daily. He says working with the Roy Cape team has been beneficial to him in more ways than one. “If it wasn’t for Juiceman I wouldn’t have gone back to the studio to do ‘Vagabond’,” he admitted, explaining that he was given that support he needed to make it happen. Blaxx too has taught him the ropes and he says, time and time again, people have recognized the changes he’s made on the advice of his fellow frontline man. This is no hustle for Ricardo Drue. He’s assessed the business of soca time and time again and says while many view it as a hustlem, he just can’t bring himself to. “I believe I’m in a position to change the way the “industry” is viewed. It may not be an immediate change but day-by-day we can change the structure of things, organize things better and work together to gain the respect of other music markets. Soca can
secure our lives, many of us, for eternity,” said the young artiste. In the carnival season ahead, Ricardo will bring more charisma to his performances. He works hard on getting into character when he hits the stage and next year, with ‘Professional’, one of those ‘must perform’ singles, he’s working on the perfect stage show to bring the song to life. For now, Drue’s priming up, getting the world at large familiar with the ID brand, which simply stands for “It’s Drue”. He understands the importance of marketing himself and branding his product and with hopes that he will become a Caribbean-wide and eventually, global household name, Ricardo Drue is pushing hard. For more on this young, humble trendsetter, follow him on social media. On Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, he encourages music lovers to link up @ItsDrue. “I’m always grateful for support,” he said, anticipating that there’ll be much more of it in the weeks and months ahead. - EtceteraBuzz
Europe anticipating great things from T&Tʼs ʻCollege Boyʼ Aba Luke
aba@carib101.com
Entertainment Trinidad and Tobago’s soca circuit is fast becoming a hub of extreme vocal talent; case in point- College Boy Jesse! With less that 140 days to the festival that the world zooms in to annually, Jesse and other young, talented artistes are putting in the work and preparing to really show off their ability in 2016. Jesse’s been on the grind, working night and day, honing his craft as both singer and songwriter. Most recently, gigs overseas saw him show just what he’s capable of doing at events in London, Atlanta and New York and the
reviews have been awesome. Now, eyes, heart and soul focused on his home base, Trinidad and Tobago, the artiste with a melodic pitch that’s undeniably one of a kind, plans on hitting the ball way out of the park in the days and weeks ahead. A new single is set for release this week, ahead of C2K16. The song will be Jesse’s first release for Carnival next year. “We feel it’s just the right time. The music is right. The vibe is excellent and we’re hoping that this new one will make magic across the Carnival landscape in T&T and the world essentially,” said Mr. Spine. He’s got a lot of faith in Jesse and while some may say it’s because they’re blood brothers, he disagrees. “Yes, Jesse’s my brother but this is my livelihood, this is my name. I wouldn’t endorse anyone as hard as I’m doing now, if they didn’t have what it takes to be great,” he assured. ‘Thunder Roll,’ the new single on the ‘Fruit Burst’ riddim, is, simply
put, delectable. It offers the perfect balance of good lyrics, sweet melody and strong sound, placing the ‘College Boy’ among a unique class of groovy hit makers of which there truly may only be a handful in T&T. From the Calypso arena to the Soca circuit, the young Trinidad and Tobago entertainer’s poised to be a superb addition to the soca music lineup. In late August, Jesse received rave reviews after a headline performance at the Leeds West Indian Carnival, which is the longest running West Indian carnival in Europe. Jesse was called upon to headline the Dimanche Gras inspired King And Queen Costume Show and arising out of that experience, it’s safe to say that the Carnival loving people of Europe are anxiously awaiting his next move in the industry. Like many others who are considered fresh to the mainstream carnival operation, young Jesse understands that timing is everything. His voice is un-
doubtedly ready and he strongly feels he will add a necessary element to the carnival landscape. “What I’ve always done is deliver a musical product that’s a true representation of the real Trinbagonian experience of fun, colour and Caribbean art. I make music that’s a reflection of who we are as a people, lyrics brought to life by beats that emulate the rhythm of our hearts. When my music’s heard, something inside every Trinbaginian moves, and that will never change,” said Jesse. He’s hoping the support will come from every corner of T&T and the Caribbean. “Sometimes all we need is just one big break and everything begins falling into place. My break is just around the corner. I can feel it,” he said. Now, with conviction, he’s letting the people of T&T know that it’s only a matter of time before they become better acquainted with the College Boy himself. - EtceteraBuzz
sports
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Supporter comes to aid of Warriors TRINIDAD -- Mere hours after a public plea for financial assistance towards this country’s senior men’s team on Friday, the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (T&TFA) received a cheque valued at $100,000 from a local football supporter. Businessman Sham Mohammed answered the call and delivered the cheque to National Team manager William Wallace at the TTFA office on Friday night, two days prior to the team’s departure for Panama City for an international friendly. At a TTFA Press briefing on Friday afternoon Wallace pleaded for corporate T&T to step forward and assist the “Soca Warriors” as they continued their preparations for the start of the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Wallace indicated that the TTFA were
still short of funding for match fees for the recent 3-3 draw with Mexico in Utah and the upcoming friendlies with Panama and Nicaragua as well as other expenses related to the team’s training camps. So far only TSTT has offered further assistance to combine with what the Ministry of Sport has provided. “We are extremely grateful to Mr Mohammed for stepping forward at this time when we are in serious need of financial assistance. He indicated that once he heard our call for assistance at the press briefing that he felt a need to assist us in some way. Hopefully this will be a kickstart and other corporate citizens and companies can follow join in and offer support as well. The Ministry of Sport and the Government alone cannot
fund our national teams,” Wallace said. Mohammed indicated that he had been following the progress of the team with keen interest. “I know the Association has been under some strain after discussions with the President Raymond Tim Kee and other officials at the TTFA. I have been following their progress and there have been some good things happening. I went to Argentina last year for the friendly and I have seen the team continuing to improve,” Mohammed stated. “I believe we have a really good chance in the qualifiers but the team needs all the help it can get and hopefully more support will come its way from here on,” added Mohammed who is the owner of Miscellaneous
Marketing Limited and was also appointed the Executive Vice President of South Florida FC which campaigns in the American Soccer Premier League (APSL) TTFA President Raymond Tim Kee expressed his gratitude to Mohammed and TSTT for their support. “We are quite pleased that a supporter has come forward to assist at this stage of the journey. This is part of ongoing discussions and relationship building which the FA has been engaged in over a period of time. I wish to thank him and TSTT as well as the Ministry of Sport for providing funding to support the FA and the Senior Men’s National Team,” Tim Kee stated. - Trinidad Guardian
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sports p
Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 7, 2015
WI cricket captains must approve who goes into battle with him TRINIDAD -- Captains of industry and sports must lead with great energy, guile and foresight, requisitioning useful instruments while planning results, also surrounding themselves with personnel who should positively effect that hoped-for successful future! Simple, really! Why then, in present West Indies cricket, are none of our teams’ captains allowed votes in selecting players that they will lead, as was present in the past, while coaches do have that luxury? Surely captains must, by gut feelings or evidence, as illustrated for WI’s Fidel Edwards or Pakistan’s Shoaib Aktar; captains’ picks by Brian Lara and Wasim Akram respectively; know whom they want in their teams. To quote Pope Francis: “Power is a fleeting thing; here today, gone tomorrow. It is important to do ‘good’ with that power; to serve in the humblest of ways!” The great irony here is that present chief WI selector Clive Lloyd, while leading an acclaimed cricket team, thankfully including yours truly, demanded that vote: “I am given this task of leading WI teams. Therefore I must have my vote as to whom I trust to be out there with me. Ultimately, I am responsible for producing good performances from those players on the field.” WI selectors do have their rightful place, especially tasked with scouting for potential newbies, then objectively colluding with captains and coaches to get special blends to represent well enough to win regu-
larly. But selectors could never replace captains! Trinidad and Tobago’s Michael “Joey” Carew, WI selector when I first played in 1976/7, tried hard to convince me, with Trinbagonian-Guyanese connections, that it was he; Carew; who insisted that I should play, and not captain Lloyd nor another then selector, also Guyanese, Joe Solomon. Lloyd did get his desired vote and definitely had final say as to whom he took into battle with him. So, again, why is it that present-day WI captains, depending on perspectives of pleasure or pain, not also have a final vote in team selections? Or are our captains also controlled by coaches? Therefore, if his tenure as selector/ chairman is indeed allowed to continue after that recent fracas, Lloyd must also strive to get that present anomaly re-amended too, for with this suspension of Coach Phil Simmons, those seams and chasms under WI cricket appear wider and deeper. How can any modern sports team, with such devastating detours outside of actual play, think about any success? Seriously incongruous, this entire situation seems untenuous! But neutrally speaking, Coach Simmons’ public outburst was also quite dangerous. Simply suggesting a 3-2 difference would have easily sufficed. While I agree that he could vent frustrations and dashed hopes, the way it was done; by pointedly, exactly, highlight-
ing that ‘only’ Lloyd and himself voted one way, while the other selectors, Eldine Baptiste, Courtney Walsh and Courtney Browne voted another way for that ODI team; could be construed as blatant incitement. Realistically, it takes less than that for some imbibed imbecilic ‘personal supporter’ of one non-selectee, to target one of those dissenting selectors. Who knows what could happen next? From factual experiences, anything is indeed possible. In T&T, WI players have called my home to abuse me for opining that they were not good enough, while I was mere inches away from being stabbed in Guyana for suggesting that Carl Hooper had not produced to his potential! Anyway, while world leaders fought for recognition at United Nations and WI cricket was again cavorting in confusion, an enlighteningly beautiful event; a great example for WI cricket; also took place in New York City. The International Youth Philharmonic Orchestra, with over one hundred musicians, aged 18 to 26, from over seventy countries, some using indigenous musical instruments, performed in unflappable unison to produce really sensational sounds! Mentored by luminary composers Poland’s Sevki Faruk Kanca and Ukraine’s Vlad DeBriansky, and conductors Slovakian Peter Briener and Venezuelan Jose Louis Gomez, YPHIL’s musical repertoire reminded of watching (Sir) Garfield Sobers, Seymour Nurse, Alvin Kallicharran, Gor-
don Greenidge, Desmond Haynes, Lara and Hooper all batting together at their slickest best. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart would have been impressed by YPHIL, such were the honey-like harmonies. Those one hundred plus played as just one single orchestrated unit. Yet, WI cannot even put eleven together with enough cohesion to learn and play without insularity or, per Coach Simmons, whose tenure could be numbered seven days or less; “Outside influences.” Maybe those musical maestros could come to the Caribbean to lend us a hand, practically and metaphorically, in molding and conducting our cricket’s visage, which seems perplexingly opaque. Will we ever evolve from this “crabs in a barrel” morass? Unfortunately, simultaneously, WI’s exclusion from Champions Trophy 2017 was also confirmed; ranked only No 9 for an eight-team tournament. Once mighty WI won that tournament only eleven years ago, 2004, courtesy of now selector Browne and Ian Bradshaw, one of only two relatively recent hearty, healthy laughs; ICC 2010 World T-20 too; that WI supporters enjoyed! So, like WI’s tumultuous first South African tour, 1998, which nearly tanked before it got started, so too has WI tour to Sri Lanka 2015 tapped into explosive fissures. Jason Holder must be wondering what will transpire next! - Trinidad Guardian
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PAGE 26
food
Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Stewed turkey wings Chris De La Rosa chris@carib101.com
Caribbean Cooking I’m not a huge fan of turkey, especially when it’s done the traditional North American way – roasted in the oven. I much prefer getting the cheaper cuts like the necks (Curry Turkey Necks) and in this case, wings. Though a bit tougher than chicken wings, I find that they hold up well to the Caribbean way of stewing and the outcome is quite delightful. Tender pieces of meat, with a wonderful gravy which is excellent on rice, potato, dumplings, roti or ground provisions. The key is in the way we’ll season, marinate and finally braise these turkey wings in a process which is most traditional to the Southern Caribbean.
u’ll Need: You’ll 3-4 lbs turkey wings 3/4 teaspoon salt 1 tomato (diced) 1 small onion (diced) 3 scallions (Chopped) 1 birds eye chili (1/4 scotch bonnet) 3 sprigs thyme 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger 1 tablespoon chopped shado beni (or cilantro) 2 seasoning peppers (known as pimento peppers) 3 cloves garlic 1 tablespoon veg oil 1 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar 3 cups water If doing this recipe gluten free, please go through the entire list of ingredients to ensure they meet with your specific gluten free dietary needs – especially the Worcestershire sauce. Have your butcher cut the turkey wings into same-size pieces for you, wash and drain. Then season with all the ingredients
m me ent ntiio ione nedd abo ab bov ove, ove, e eexcept xccep eptt the th he wa w ate ter er, vveg eeg g ooil il and il mentioned above, water, brown sugar. Mix well, then cover and place in the fridge to marinate for at least 2-3 hours. Overnight would be best, but not necessary. Heat the veg oil on a high flame in a heavy pot, then add the brown sugar and stir. It will clump, but after a while it will start to melt. Turn the fan on above your stove or open your kitchen window as it can get a bit smokey. Remember to use a dry long handle spoon. Keep stirring the sugar.. it will melt, go foamy/frothy and start changing color… you want it to get to an amber colour. Have the seasoned turkey wings very close as you need to act relatively fast. (watch the video below) As it goes a rich amber color, start adding the pieces of seasoned turkey wings and stir. IMPORTANT – you are adding wet wings to VERY hot molten sugar, so be careful and use a long handle spoon. Stir well, to coat all the pieces of turkey with the lovely color. Turn the heat down to medium, cover the pot and let it go for about 10 minutes. Yes, it’s ok if some of the marinade goes into the pot as you added the turkey wings. In the same bowl you marinated the wings, pour in the water and move around to pick-up all the
remaining marinade – we’ll need that soon. The wings will spring up it’s own natural juices in the pot. Remember to stir it a few times to color it evenly. To intensify the flavor and color of the stew, remove the lid off the pot and crank up the heat to high. It’s time to burn off all that liquid. The goal is to have a dry pot, with the sight of the veg oil at the bottom of the pot that we started of with. Now pour in the water and bring to a boil. This step will now gently cook the wings to perfection. When it comes to a boil reduce it to a simmer, cover the pot and let it go for about 70-90 minutes. Remember to stir every 10-15 minutes and keep an eye on your liquid level. After about 80 minutes, they should be fully tender, it’s now time to personalize the dish a bit. You can remove the lid and turn the heat up to get the gravy to the consistency you like and remember to taste it for salt and adjust accordingly. Your tolerance for salt will be different than mine. Top with some chopped scallions and serve!
Wednesday, October 7, 2015 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
travel
PAGE 27
A little bit of music Micca Vanvield
micca@carib101.com
Travel Specialist I’ve recently had an opportunity to take a well-deserved vacation and not include any work. We are all guilty of it. We say we are going away and we’re not going to check emails or do any work, but we do it anyway. We get so caught up in the “now a days”. We feel like we constantly need a phone, tablet, or computer to keep us in line. But really, we don’t. This vacation for me was definitely an eye opener. I set out to have an actual vacation. Time away to relax and reflect. I got to do just that, but I was also blessed with the opportunity to tap into Jamaican music
and got to realize how it has really helped to shape the view of the island and its people of today. I just know that this trip was divine. My first day on the island landed me on a resort that I was familiar with. I’ve had the pleasure of staying there in the past as well as watch a number of their shows. My first night at the resort consisted of dinner and a little music. The hotel presented a show highlighting the different genres of Jamaican music and how it has evolved. From Ska, Rocksteady, Reggae, to Dancehall. Just to name a few. I got an opportunity to realize how much Jamaican music is influenced by cultures around the world, from African to European, and how present day music has been injected with the music of the Jamaican culture. Traditional Jamaican Ska music came about in the late 1950s to early 1960s. It was originally a blend of mento, calypso with American jazz and R&B. It was fast music and definitely made for dancing. Ska,
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within itself has a very unique sound. Picture hearing the sound of a large horn in one section of a stage performance with the influence of jazz and soul. Ska also incorporates the nyabinghi drumming of the Rastafarianism culture, which many view as a staple of Jamaica and relates this to the late great Robert Nesta Marley. Before Bob Marley became famous for his lifestyle as a Rastafarian he was a clean-shaven young man in the Wailers, a group known for their soulful vocal harmonies and sweet love songs. I actually had the opportunity to meet a few of the members of the Wailers on this trip and it was definitely a humbling experience. Rocksteady also originated in Jamaica in the 1960s. This genre of music formed to be the successor of Ska and a precursor to reggae. The term rocksteady comes from a dance style that is less energetic than the dances of Ska though still boasting the strone sounds of horns and jazz. This genre of music calls for slow rhythmic movements
of the hips while at times incorporating your arms. In my opinion dancehall is probably by far one of the most popular genres of music stemming from Jamaica. It evolved in the late 1970s and has now impacted all different types of musical genres around the world. Digital instrumental was introduced into Jamaican music in the 1980s, with faster rhythms and it considerably changed the sound of the music. Dancehall has changed the face of music worldwide. It is one of the most versatile genres and so many artists all over the world collaborate on tracks that feature the dancehall sound. No matter where you vacation in the Caribbean, a little music is always good for the soul. With a variety of influences and sounds Caribbean music hits that relaxation spot. When on the islands, kick up your feet, grab a drink and enjoy the sweet sounds of the music, Island style.
Wednesday, October 7, 2015 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
body & soul
Yoga for women Emilie Closs
emilie@carib101.com
Yoga Specialist Yoga is for everyone, but when it comes to women, hormones, emotions and physical changes, yoga can be very healing for the female gender. For example if pregnant there are some poses most should avoid unless the person is a very experienced yogi. During menstruation you can alleviate cramps with yoga. And then there are hormones that we as women need for so many functions but can be unbalanced if we are not taking care of our bodies properly. Remember we are women and buzzing with hormones coming from different organs in the body at all times. Let’s take a deeper look… Yoga during pregnancy is beneficial for aches and pains, breathing preparation for labour and an ideal activity to promote relaxation and reduce stress throughout the pregnancy. Childs pose, Pigeon and Savasana with your legs up the wall will all support circulation,
stretch the hips and allow you to focus on the breath. Preparing the body and mind for labour along with having a safe and happy pregnancy is what every women wants. More and more women are going to yoga. 50-70% of women experience back pain during pregnancy. That makes for a long nine months so get on the mat. During menstruation women also struggle. Hormones are on high alert and the body is cleansing itself so do several seated poses and take a relaxing Savasana. Inversions are not recommended during this time of the month. Staying active while menstruating can help alleviate cramps as the endorphins from the activity will produce analgesia (pain relief). This helps to burn the prostaglandins which are the chemicals released during menstruation that cause muscle contractions much faster. For severe cramping a faster paced yoga routine that gets your heart rate up will encourage the cramps to reduce significantly faster. A brisk walk and some yoga will replace your usual pain relief pill you reach for. And don’t forget a hot bath, tea and toast is a great cure all. Hormones are made in the Pancreas, Ovaries, Hypothalamus, Adrenal, Pineal, Pituitary and thyroid. By doing yoga poses regularly that stimulate and/ or activate certain glands and organs, can
help to maintain hormone balance and consistent production and distribution. This can help with PMS, breakouts, weight gain/loss and more. Here are several poses that can assist with these functions: • • • •
Rabbit Pose Standing Head to Knee Seated Forward Bend Easy Pose
As women we take on the role as caretaker. Even with kids and/ or jobs most women are trying to do it all, keep house and a job at the same time. This is hard. Let’s just put it out there, we do too much. So leave that last load of dishes and go to yoga class or do some yoga at home. Re-fuel yourself mentally and physically. A minimum of ten minutes of yoga a day - everyday can make an amazing and mindful difference to your life. And it’s only a small percentage of your entire day so grab your mat and get to it.
PAGE 29
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Wednesday, October 7, 2015 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
health news
Coconut oil is better than any toothpaste according to new study Recent research done at the Athlone Institute of Technology studied the effects of several natural oils on common bacteria found in the mouth. And to no one’s surprise coconut oil came out as the big winner. These new findings were a follow up study of earlier work that showed digested milk made it harder for Streptococcus mutans to stick to tooth enamel. Enzyme-modified Coconut Oil, The Toothpaste of The Future Scientists found that when the oil was treated with digestive enzymes it effectively inhibits the growth of the majority of bacteria found in our mouth, S. mutans included. S. mutans is an acid-producing bacteria that plays a major role in tooth decay, affecting 60 to 90 percent of children and the majority of adults in industrialized countries. While coconut oil’s bacteria fighting properties is nothing new, further studies presented at the Autumn meeting of the Society for General Microbiology at the University of Warwick, suggested that enzyme-
treated coconut oil may be a potential killer to the yeast Candida albicans, which causes thrush. “Incorporating enzyme-modified coconut oil into dental hygiene products would be an attractive alternative to chemical additives, particularly as it works at relatively low concentrations. Also, with increasing antibiotic resistance, it is important that we turn our attention to new ways to combat microbial infection,” said lead researcher Dr Damien Brady, from the Athlone Institute of Technology in the Republic of Ireland. Not only will their research mean a lot to our oral health, they are also looking into the effects of digested products, such as coconut oil, on our overall gut health. “Our data suggests that products of human digestion show antimicrobial activity. This could have implications for how bacteria colonise the cells lining the digestive tract and for overall gut health,” said Dr Brady. How To Use Coconut Oil For better Oral
Health Have you ever thought of using a spoonful of coconut oil to clean your teeth and improve overall oral health? Then now may be the time. It doesn’t contain fluoride and is so much more effective at doing the job than regular toothpaste or mouth wash. Oil pulling Swish a spoonful of extra virgin coconut oil around in your mouth for 15-20 minutes. Make sure to not swallow the oil as it contains all the nasty mouth bugs. Spit it out in the bin and rinse teeth with water. Here’s the all-natural tooth paste we use at home… • • •
½ cup coconut oil 2-3 tablespoons baking soda 15-30 drops of peppermint essential oil
Melt coconut oil and blend with other ingredients. Pour into a glass jar and let cool. Use as you would use normal tooth paste. - Natural News
Diabetes, obesity and developmental problems all caused by chemical corporationsʼ toxic products Evidence continues to link endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) to a wide range of illnesses, most notably obesity and diabetes, according to a scientific statement recently issued by the Endocrine Society. The new statement is a followup to the society’s 2009 report, which highlighted the existing research on the health threats of EDCs. “The evidence is more definitive than ever before - EDCs disrupt hormones in a manner that harms human health,” said Andrea C. Gore of the University of Texas at Austin, who chaired the task force that drafted the statement. “Hundreds of studies are pointing to the same conclusion, whether they are long-term epidemiological studies in human, basic research in animals and cells, or research into groups of people with known occupational exposure to specific chemicals.” Hormone-changing chemicals destroying health globally EDCs are chemicals that mimic, block or otherwise interfere with the body’s hormones. This disruption of the body’s internal communications system can change the growth and development of cells, producing a wide variety of health problems. Developing infants are at particularly high risk of lifelong health problems from EDC exposure. Among the most well known EDCs are bisphenol A (BPA), which is found in food and beverage cans and paper receipts; phthalates, used in cosmetics and plastics (including in medical devices); flame retar-
dants; and pesticides. Studies have shown that the chemicals are so widespread that nearly everyone on the planet carries traces of at least one EDC in their body. Prior studies have strongly linked EDCs to infertility, neurological problems, hormone-related cancers and other health problems. According to a recent study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, EDC exposure costs the European Union €157 billion ($209 billion) per year in healthcare costs and lost earnings. Evidence stronger than ever While previous studies had already linked EDCs to both obesity and diabetes, the Endocrine Society’s new statement reviews newer, stronger research findings. The statement notes that animal studies have shown that even tiny amounts of prenatal EDC exposure can cause obesity later in life. Some EDCs have also been shown to directly damage alpha and beta cells in the pancreas, liver cells and fat cells, causing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Human epidemiological studies have also shown strong connections between EDC exposure and both conditions. An estimate 29 million Americans now suffer from diabetes, and 35 percent of the adult population is classified as obese, the statement notes. New studies have also strengthened the evidence linking EDCs to hormonerelated cancers (such as of the breast and ovaries), reproductive problems, thyroid disorders, prostate problems and neurodevelopmental disorders.
“It is clear we need to take action to minimize further exposure,” Gore said. “With more chemicals being introduced into the marketplace all the time, better safety testing is needed to identify new EDCs and ensure they are kept out of household goods.” Global problem; urgent action needed The statement calls for a number of measures designed to reduce the risk posed by EDCs, including additional research into the causative connection between EDCs and various health problems; regulations to require that, before chemicals are permitted for use, they be tested even at very low concentrations for endocrine-disrupting activity; the creation of new products to test for and eliminate EDCs; and education for policymakers and the public on ways to keep EDCs out of food and the environment, and to reduce unborn children’s exposure. The statement also calls for the international community to recognize the global nature of the EDC problem. “Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals during early development can have long-lasting, even permanent consequences,” said society member Jean-Pierre Bourguignon of the University of Liege, Belgium. “The science is clear and it’s time for policymakers to take this wealth of evidence into account as they develop legislation.” - Natural News
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Wednesday, October 7, 2015 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
health news
PAGE 33
Five good mood foods that support mental health Studies find that what you eat plays a huge role in lowering your anxiety and boosting your mood. The more you choose a healthy, whole-food treat over a nutrient-empty, quick fix, the more you’ll reap the benefits both now and later. Here are a few snacks that can bring you the boost you’re looking for. Chocolate Let’s start with an easy one... chocolate. Chock-full of antioxidants and capable of delivering the endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin that your brain needs to regulate your mood, chocolate also provides assistance to the cardiovascular system. Not all chocolate is created equal, though! The act of processing cacao can remove or change most of its healthy compounds, and most of conventional chocolate includes detrimental additives like soy lecithin. Chocolates also contain a variety of sugars that disrupt the balance of gut microbes and can create an overgrowth of Candida. Look for raw chocolates that use sweeteners like raw coconut sugars, stevia, or raw honey. The fewer ingredients listed, the more likely you are to reap the benefits of a midday truffle. Fermented Foods Social anxiety can be a major downer, but
according to a recently published study, people who consume fermented foods might be less likely to experience it. Looking at young adults enrolled in a psychology class, the students who consumed naturally fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles exhibited fewer symptoms of social anxiety. The students who reported the greatest benefit from the fermented foods were students who were genetically predisposed to social anxiety disorder. In addition, traditionally fermented foods also benefit your nervous and immune systems, provide beneficial bacteria, making several nutrients easily digestible. It’s important to choose fermented foods that have been fermented with lactic acid to get all of the benefits from these foods. Avocado Who doesn’t love fatty food? We are biologically engineered to want to eat fatty things, which can sometimes lead to trouble, diet-wise. Sometimes experts can’t agree on which fats to eat, but pretty much everyone is cheering on the avocado. You can join us! Filled with protein, loaded with serotonin boosting monounsaturated fats, a great natural source of B vitamins, avocados have a stacked deck when it comes to promoting a good mood. They’re also a versatile addi-
tion to any menu. Smoothies, salads, tacos, guacamole, or cut in half and served with a spoon...it’s harder to find something you can’t add avocado to. Berries There’s something irresistible about fresh berries. Plump and juicy, with that little burst of sweetness, the different varieties make it easy for everyone to have a favorite. They’re also a fantastic source of antioxidants. A steady supply of antioxidants has been shown to lower levels of depression in addition to repairing cell damage and helping prevent cancer. They’re also a perfect pick me up, whether tossing back a quick handful of blueberries or blending a decadent raspberry and coconut milk smoothie (see the second source below for a recipe). Omega-3 Fatty Acids Okay, so omega-3 fatty acids are not technically a snack food. But when a nutrient provides enough dopamine and serotonin to be described as natural Prozac, it’s impossible to not mention it on a list of good mood foods. A review of more than 25 studies over the past 15 years found that people who ate the most fish were 17% less likely to suffer from depression. Walnuts slow cognitive degenera-
tion and promote sleep. They can triple melatonin levels. Chia, flax, and hemp, the holy trinity of the health nut’s seed shelf, provide fiber, boost brain health, and add a little extra protein to help you feel fuller longer. What gives these foods all of this positive health mojo? Omega-3 fatty acids! Fish can be a dicey proposition due to mercury contamination, but incorporating a low-mercury fish like salmon into your rotation can have significant brain benefits. Sprinkle some flax, hemp, or chia seeds on salads or in smoothies. Mix a container of soaked and sprouted trail mix with extra walnuts to replace a not so happy snack at work. Munch on some smoked salmon. Make Simple Switches for Big Benefits Every other ad or commercial suggests that the latest depression medication is all you need to live the life you’ve always wanted. Choosing health over immediate gratification appears to be a slow process when there is always a new version of the magic mood pill. It seems like a small step to swap out conventional, processed foods for healthy, whole food choices, but every step toward better overall bodily function is a step toward elevating and stabilizing your mood. - Natural News
Include peanuts in your meals to boost cardiovascular health Peanuts are America’s most consumed nut. Once slandered for their high fat content, they are now being touted for promoting a longer and healthier life as well as reducing the risk of cardiovascular-related deaths such as heart attacks and strokes. Previous research conducted at the Harvard School of Public Health showed that when consumed five or more times per week, a one-ounce serving of peanuts can decrease one’s diabetes risk by as much as 27 percent, and a handful of peanuts can cut the risk of heart disease in half. This study explains, “Nutrients in nuts, such as unsaturated fatty acids, highquality protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals may confer cardio protective, anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.” A new study presented at a recent meeting of the American Society for Nutrition by lead researcher Xiaoran Liu, a graduate student in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at The Pennsylvania State
University, has found that including peanuts in a meal has a positive, protective effect on vascular function after eating a high-fat meal. Vascular dysfunction is one of the lead causes of atherosclerosis, plaque formation, and lesions that can lead to coronary heart disease. “Previous studies have shown that individuals who consume peanuts more than two times a week have a lower risk of coronary heart disease,” said Liu. “This study indicates that the protective effect of peanut consumption could be due, in part, to its beneficial effect on artery health.” This team is not the only one that is researching the benefits of adding peanuts to one’s daily diet. Researchers at Vanderbilt University and the Shanghai Cancer Institute published a study on March 2 in JAMA Internal Medicine that shows a clear association between the consumption of peanuts and a lower risk of dying from a heart attack. Although they were not the first to make the link between nut consumption and
mortality, most other studies only focused on white people with a higher income. This study, however, found that peanuts can actually improve the heart and health of all races and income classes. “In our study, we found that peanut consumption was associated with reduced total mortality and cardiovascular disease mortality in a predominantly low-income black and white population in the U.S., and among Chinese men and women living in Shanghai,” said the senior author of the study, Dr. Xiao-Ou Shu. According to their findings, peanut consumption can slash the risk of death due to poor cardiovascular health by 23 to 28 percent. However, William Blot, Ph.D., associate director for Cancer Prevention, Control and Population-based Research at VICC and a co-author of the study, notes: “The data arise from observational epidemiologic studies, and not randomized clinical trials, and thus we cannot be sure
that peanuts per se were responsible for the reduced mortality observed. The findings from this new study, however, reinforce earlier research suggesting health benefits from eating nuts, and thus are quite encouraging.” While peanuts might show a protective effect on the heart, it is important to remember that like any other nut, peanuts are high in calories. Therefore, it is best is to avoid eating too many peanuts. Peanuts meet the American Heart Association® Heart-Check criteria. This means that they contain fewer than 4 grams of saturated fat, no trans fat, no cholesterol, fewer than 140 milligrams of sodium, and 10 percent or more of the Daily Value of at least one beneficial nutrient like fiber or protein. According to the American Heart Association, we should eat at least four servings of unsalted, unoiled peanuts a week. One serving equates to one small handful or 1.5 ounces of nuts, or two tablespoons of peanut butter. - Natural News
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health & you
Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Healthy habbits Monique Bartlett
monique@carib101.com
Fitness How do you make a positive impact on your health? Start with small changes. By adopting a few simple, healthy daily habits you will feel better. Make sure you find the time to squeeze them into your daily routine. Believe it or not caffeine may improve your memory and protect against Alzheimer’s disease. As caffeine consumption increases, incidence of Alzheimer’s disease seems to decrease. Caffeine seems to blocks
adenosine receptors (“activators”) in the brain, and adenosine is known to slow cognition and affect memory. Caffeine also seems to increase focus and concentration, and reduce the risk of Parkinson’s disease. It’s also beneficial in increasing your metabolism and helping to keep your weight in check. Just don’t have too much caffeine. Caffeine overload may result in jitters, headache or stomach ache. Find someone who motivates you and puts a smile on your face. Being happy, laughing and smiling helps to release endorphins which not only make you feel better but are beneficial to your overall health. Not only will it be beneficial to you, it may also be beneficial to your friend as well. Stretching before bedtime, can actually help you get better sleep. Besides improving flexibility and circulation, stretching can help your body to release stress and tension from a long day. Yoga is a great exercise
to implement which will also increase your balance and strength. Relaxing your body with yoga or stretching can also help relax your brain. This healthy habit is an important part of a healthy sleep routine. Too many people engage in stimulating practices before bed, like watching TV, doing chores and surfing the net. All of these do not promote a good night’s sleep. Getting seven to eight hours of sleep every night will make a huge change in your quest for overall health. A proper amount of sleep will help improve your immune system and concentration. Making your own well-being a priority doesn’t take much time and it doesn’t mean you have to take time away from your friends and family. Adopting healthy habits like these also sets a good example for others, showing them that sometimes life really is all about the little things.
Mouth protection for your children Dr. Matthew Weekes drweekes@carib101.com
Dental Health Now that the school season has started many children, some for the first time, will be get-
ting involved in contact sports which have the potential to cause injury to the head, including the face, jaws, teeth and soft tissue. Protection of these vital body parts is very important especially in the early years of your child’s development. Thousands of severe injuries take place every year in sports and many would have been prevented if head gear and mouth guards were in place. The President of the Ontario Dental Association Dr. Arthur Worth stated. “Even hockey players who currently wear both helmet and face masks should wear a mouth guard to protect against head and neck inju-
ries by absorbing trauma or blows that could otherwise cause jaw fractures or concussion.” The best and most effective mouth guards are the custom made ones obtained from your dentist. They fit better, are less bulky, more comfortable and provide maximum protection. Because of the proven benefits of mouth guards they are not only used in boxing and martial arts but also in almost every major league sport. Start your kids off on the right track of prevention.
Is peeing a pain? Get help with these urinary tract infection tips Dr. Lydia Thurton
drlydia@carib101.com
Health Tips Painful burning, running back and forth to the toilet, bad smelling pee, urinary tract infections (UTI) can be brutal. While some people may only have one in a lifetime, for some patients, usually women, UTIs can be recurrent. And more than 50% of women will experience a UTI in their lifetime. Typical treatment includes rounds of antibiotics like cipro or amoxicillin. Minimizing use of antibiotics via natural therapies prevents bacterial resistance that is becoming a huge problem from antibiotic overuse. Urinary tract infections are helped by wearing cotton underwear, wiping front to back and urinating after sexual contact. For some these life-
style changes are not enough. I always start by ensuring my patient has healthy bacteria in their system. Healthy bugs crowd out pathogenic bacteria preventing their survival. Populating with good bacteria starts in the digestive tract. Those friendly bacteria eventually migrate and populate the genital area. Supplement companies also make vaginal probiotic suppositories. Placing good bacteria directly in the vaginal canal ensures a strong population of healthy bugs in the entire region. UTIs take place when the bad bacteria on the surface of your genitals crawls up the urethra and gets into the bladder. A healthy balance of beneficial bacteria is really your first line of defense. Cranberry juice has long been promoted as a method of preventing urinary tract infections. Pure, unsweetened, very sour cranberry juice is rich in antioxidants and a compound called D-mannose. D-mannose is a type of sugar that prevents bacteria, especially E. Coli, from adhering to the lining of the urinary tract. D-mannose has been shown in some research studies to prevent the reoccurrence of UTIs. This is a semi-
sweet powder that is available at health food stores. Typical doses are around two grams per day. D-mannose does not increase your blood sugar, however diabetics should always check with their physician or naturopath before beginning a new supplement. I definitely have patients who try their best to be “all natural” and avoid pharmaceutical medications at all costs. While I’m happy to support patients in their quest to avoid synthetic medications there are times when antibiotics are needed. Severe infections, where there is blood in the urine or systemic symptoms like fever and back pain need to be treated promptly with medication. If you are going to use a natural remedy you need to check in with your naturopath within a week of starting it to determine if the infection has actually gone away or not. They will do a urine dipstick. Do not leave it up to your subjective feeling or you could end up with a kidney infection. My final tip, if you have an elderly person in your life and they present with confusion that is out of the ordinary for them, they should be screened for an underlying UTI.
Wednesday, October 7, 2015 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
health & you
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Are you at risk for prostate cancer? rectum, just below the bladder. It surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine and semen through the penis.
Michelle Smith
michelle@carib101.com
Health Care Healthcare advocacy keeps you in the loop, September was declared Prostate Cancer awareness month. Prostate Cancer is one of the leading cancers for men Just Like Breast Cancer is for women. But, if Found Early it can Be Treated. I stress the importance of being screened; it saved my Father and my Father in Laws life. The prostate is a part of the male reproductive system. It adds nutrients and fluid to sperm. Normally the size of a walnut, the prostate can be divided into right and left “lobes.”It is located in front of the
Here are some facts to consider: cited by Prostate Cancer Canada It is estimated that in 2015: 1 in 8 Canadian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their life time 24,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. 4,100 men will die from prostate cancer. These are Alarming numbers. The rate of men getting prostate cancer or dying from prostate cancer varies by race and ethnicity. But let the truth be told there is an increased occurrence in the African and Afro-Caribbean males. Black men often complain about not wanting to be touched by a male in their backside, I’d be quite honest and say find a women Doctor because the benefits of being screened outweighs the feeling of not being screened. Think about how your family, your
partner and your children would feel without your presence. Do it for them. It is very important to consider routine screening at age forty rather than waiting until you experience symptoms. Make a note that your time line for your screening should be done earlier if you have increased risk factors i.e. Family History, Lifestyle. While any man can develop prostate cancer, you may be at a high risk if you are over 50 or have a family history of prostate cancer: Your risk is higher if a first-degree relative (father or brother) has had prostate cancer. African or Caribbean: Prostate cancer is more common among men in these ethnic groups. (Men of Asian descent have lower risk.) Overweight: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight reduces your risk. Do not have a healthy diet: Men who eat a low-fibre, high-fat diet are more likely to develop prostate cancer. Saturated fats most of our tasty treats may increase testosterone production and promote the growth of prostate cancer cells. Here are some symptoms to look for
and report to your Doctor. Let it be known that these symptoms may not mean that you have Prostate Cancer. These symptoms are also commonly found in other issues. Which is why I stress that you report symptoms immediately. • • • • • • •
Waking frequently at night to urinate. Sudden or urgent need to urinate. Difficulty in starting to urinate. Slow flow of urine and difficulty in stopping. Discomfort when urinating. Painful ejaculation. Blood in the urine or semen.
Do me a favor: Tell a Friend to tell a friend that for their next doctor’s visit inquire about having their prostate checked. Decrease your risk by changing some of your activities and of course remember that you are the most important person on your health team.
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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 7, 2015
As good as gold Fazaad Bacchus
fazaad@carib101.com
Finance Specialist I was interviewing a client recently, who owns a jewelry store and in the midst of our meeting he asked to be excused because he needed to attend to a customer who had a large amount of jewelry which she wanted to sell. I was standing close by, so I couldn’t help overhearing the discussion. The gold was part of her wedding gift brought from India. She proudly explained to him that her jewelry was worth about 5000 Canadian dollars when it was given to her for her wedding, but now she no longer needs it (reason unknown) and as a result she wanted to sell. She was ex-
pecting maybe a little less or a little more than $5000 thinking that it might have appreciated. I was surprised to see what the value of gold was when it’s being bargained at a second hand jewelry store. No wonder we see that familiar advertisement asking you to bring in your gold that they will buy from you, now that same establishment has so much money, they are doing second mortgages! Back to the lady in the store, she left with only $2,300 and visibly upset. The jeweler explained that the jewelry had no value and he had to melt it and make jewelry all over again. Long and short of the story is that her gold did not represent an investment. I was entirely amazed at the entire transaction. We were told as children and forced to learn it in school. “As good as gold”. Therefore if you owned gold you were very rich if you were given it would increase in value. If you saw someone wearing lots of gold chains around his neck, you automatically assumed he was
wealthy. And what of your jewelry that you have had for years given to you by your grandmother…well it has a value, a value that not even money can buy. It has a priceless sentimental value, hold on to it and cherish it. But this is not how gold works in the investment world; those who trade in gold stocks know the volatility of gold. In 1980 the peak price for an ounce of gold was $850 then it dipped and never recovered until 2008 back to a peak of $850 when the stock market crashed, and then gold seemed like the best alternative. Gold continued to rise where it peaked at $1,921 in 2011, and if you had bought gold then thinking that it was just the thing to do, what a surprise you would have found yourself in, as gold fell more than 28% over 2013-2014. Gold then is an emotional rollercoaster when used as an asset class. Its extreme volatility can wreak havoc on an investors mind, causing you many sleepless nights. It is an asset that can swing wildly
from its core values, and more importantly it does not provide an income stream. Therefore you should limit your portfolio to an amount consistent with your risk tolerance. When choosing your investments, remember these watch words – • • • •
Safety: I do not run the risk of losing my money. Liquidity: If I need to sell, there is a market. Investment returns: The asset should provide an income stream, possibly dividends. Capital appreciation: The value of my investment should be more than I initially invested.
It is advisable to invest where all four components are available, but more so, you are better off discussing all options available to you with a qualified financial advisor. Don’t do it all alone, contact a financial advisor today for a better tomorrow.
Wednesday, October 7, 2015 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
Enforcing child support orders Valerie Dye
valerie@carib101.com
Legal Matters Anyone who has had to pay child support under a court order has heard of the Family Responsibility Office. The Family Responsibility Office has been created under the Family Responsibility and Support Enforcement Act 1996 (FRSAEA) and it gives power to the Director to use various measures to enforce the payment of child support. The Family Responsibility Office also enforces the payment of spousal support. When a support order is made by the court a Support Deduction Order is also issued which allows the Family Responsibility Office to enforce the order. The Family Responsibility Office also enforces provisions included in a Separation Agreement. When parties opt to deal with their separation and divorce obligations by entering into a Separation Agreement, and where the Separation Agreement contains an obligation to pay child support or spousal support, such obligations are enforceable by the Family Responsibility Office. The parties are first required to file the Separation Agreement in Court along with an Affidavit and then take the said Agreement to the Family Responsibility Office for Enforcement. The Family Responsibility Office may also enforce obligations to pay retroactive support. How is Enforcement Done? When a Support Deduction order is filed with the Family Responsibility Office, the Director sends a notice to the payor’s employer (referred to as the income source) which authorises the employer to make deductions from the payor’s
earnings. The payor also receives notice. Until deductions are made from the income source the payor has a responsibility to begin making payments to the Family Responsibility Office. The Family Responsibility Office may take certain measures in the event that a payor defaults in making support payments. One such measure is suspension of the support payor’s driver’s licence. The Director first sends a notice to the payor requiring him or her to make payments within thirty days. If payments are not made, the Director, pursuant to section to section 37 of the FRSAEA may direct the Registrar of Motor vehicles to suspend the payor’s driver’s licence. Section 42 of the FRSAEA also allows the Director of the Family Responsibility Office to register the support order in the Land Registry Office against the payor’s real property and this becomes a charge on the land. This may result in a sale of the land in the same manner in which land is sold for failure to make payments on a mortgage. The Director may also register the order under the Person Property Security Act as a charge against personal property. The payor’s passport may also be suspended where there is a default in payment of support. The Director may also commence a default hearing in court and the court may make an order compelling the support payor to file a financial statement. Where the support payor resides with another person who is an income earner that person may also be ordered to file a financial statement and show proof of earnings. If the court determines that another person is financially connected to the payor (mostly a spouse) the court may order that such person be added as a party to the default hearings. If the court finds that the other party may have sheltered assets or income of the payor to frustrate payment of support that other party may be ordered to make payments. Since the Family Responsibility Office takes support payments very seriously it is not advisable to allow payments to go into default.
Fuel economy and the modern consumer
Jelani Daniel
jelani@carib101.com
Automotive Corner Fuel economy is the auto industries modern buzz word since many drivers are facing heavy commutes, minimizing spending and trying to work with both family and work schedules, which can be costly. Many readers may have a vague understanding of what it means, but how can the economy of your fuel be strengthened? Understanding Fuel Economy: Fuel economy can be better understood as the ratio between mileage and how much fuel is consumed. Depending on the engine, size of the automobile, as well as the automobile speed all play a vital role in the economy of fuel. Researching Before You Spend: Certain myths such as ‘dirty air filters increase fuel consumption’ have been disproven with newer engine models. Being sure to research all myths can be an added bonus to saving money on your daily commutes and annual upkeep of your vehicle. The Fuel Myth: The right type of octane for your car is usually listed on the car for you to review, so keep-
ing with the recommended grade is necessary. Overall, premium gas is typically used to enhance performance and minimize precipitation, not lower fuel consumption. By paying a higher price, you are providing your car better fuel, but not necessarily enhancing fuel economy. What Class Of Car Is The Most Fuel Efficient? There are various car makes and models, but classes of cars typically reveal the most accurate MPG (miles per gallon). Overall, the most fuel friendly classes include Electric two seaters, compact cars and midsize cars. As the class gets larger (unless it is electric) the fuel economy decreases. Vehicles that consume the most gas include large cars, station wagons, sport utility vehicles, pickups and finally vans. Vans that are made for passengers take up the most fuel, often only having under 15 MPG. Impacts On The Environment: As concerns for the environment grow, there are a series of innovative technologies that are enhancing fuel economy, as well as ending the use of fuel. As mentioned above, the best way to save on fuel is to use electric vehicles. Although they are pricey, the end result is nonexistent gas payments and an environmentally friendly commute. For the current non-electric driver, sticking to regular fuel but buying smaller cars with smaller engine sizes, as well as using less air conditioning are the most traditional and trusted ways to save fuel. Purchasing newer cars with eco-friendly hybrid alternatives are a great way to save gasoline, as well as purchasing more modern, fuel efficient models.
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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Waiting for the Supreme Court of Canada to Decide on 407ETRʼs Appeal Tammy Flores
tammy@carib101.com
407ETR Matters It has been ten months since the Supreme Court of Canada heard 407 ETR’s Appeal on the issue of Paramountcy with respects to the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act. To recap, the Province of Ontario has intervened and said, “the fresh start provided by a discharge in bankruptcy was never intended to wipe away the consequences of the manner in which the bankrupt had participated in a regulated activity” and” provisions in all other provinces’ and territories’ legislation, does not frustrate the fresh start purpose of the BIA because it imposes a licence suspension as a regulatory, rather than merely as a debt-collection measure. ” You can look at this statement two ways. The first is that, 407 ETR’s Plate Denial provision is in fact merely a collection tool for a private corporation. In that case, it would open a whole can of worms for the company that has been willfully ignoring consumer protection legislation. OR you could look at it in the way the company wants, that the provision is a behavior modification. In that case, the company will be completely exonerated for holding people in Plate Denial unless they pay whatever the company claims is owed. The company will be able to claim that being placed in Plate Denial is merely the consequences of a person’s behavior. What is the questionable behavior that threatens public policy? Not paying the tolls, fees and interest the company charges. Remember, according to the Province, the 2005 decision by the lower courts, gave the company sole discretion over what they can charge. Is it really a public policy, in favor of the public, that is in jeopardy or this private corporation’s bottom line? Think about it, 407 ETR never has to justify any charges prior to placing someone in Plate Denial. They don’t even have to bill you, the customer. They can bill someone else, but because they sent an invoice, regardless of whether or not you, the customer, actually got it doesn’t matter. The company can supresses invoices for years and come find you later, whether or not you are their actual customer, and then slam you with thousands of dollars in undocumented amounts. This private corporation then has a privilege no other private corporation has. They get to shake you down for the money using Plate Denial, ignoring all consumer protection laws. If that doesn’t work, then they go and get judgments against people that are illegal because they were done
well after the limitations period should have prevented such action. Because the people effected couldn’t afford a lawyer to properly advocate for them, they got completely screwed over. Despite their being a legislated process for disputing charges, it’s only ever been used seven times since the beginning and not one of those cases was successful for the consumer. If anything, it is the company’s behavior that puts public policy in jeopardy. It is the hope of the group “Stop the 407 ETR’s Abuse of Power” that the esteemed justices will conclude that a private corporation has no place in regulating Provincial policy, through monetary penalties that can completely destroy a person’s life. Yes, we are talking about some of the most vulnerable people that will be affected by the Supreme Court’s decision. There have already been stories of people that have committed suicide because this company was relentlessly hounding them for a bill that is questionable or wasn’t even legitimate. There have been other cases that the company has been able to get judgments against people that put them in a situation that they will never be out from under. They can’t even cover the monthly interest charges the company continues to heap onto them. They will be paying the company forever for charges that are questionable even occurred, all because the company claimed, but never proved, someone drove on their highway. When the company claims that it isn’t viable for them to pursue people in courts according to the Limitations Act, I get very angry because it tips the scales of justice in favor of the company to completely destroy a person’s life. Let’s remember, the process of Plate Denial is very obscure. The Province has refused to regulate the company’s behavior on how they are to conduct themselves when the company is to blame as to why a person fails to pay a toll. The Province claims, that regardless of the circumstances surrounding the debt, they have to absolutely, blindly deny a person from renewing their sticker if 407 ETR has requested it. In essence, this would mean that the Provincial government has sold their executive power to a private corporation. That is illegal. The Province can’t have it both ways. They can’t say on the one hand that they have no control over the questionable business practices of this private corporation and then on the other hand say that the company is merely looking out for public policy because paying your tolls is important to the Province’s objectives. Let me correct that… that is exactly what the Province is saying. Rant over. Stay tuned. The Supreme Court decision is coming soon.
Wednesday, October 7, 2015 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean
insight
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Persuasive Development Disorders Autism; it cannot be ignored! Intermission week! Simone Smith
simone@carib101.com
A Better Tomorrow This week, I wanted to depart from our topic, only to discuss some questions and thoughts that have been discussed with me throughout this series. I appreciate the question and thoughts that I do receive from our readers; this allows me to stay on top of myself, and focus on providing the best information for the Toronto community. I commend those who take the time to read and critique what they have read. In this day and age, information floods our psyche in many formats; television broadcasting, radio broadcasting and most prolific of all social media. I have been fortunate enough to go through many experiences and these experiences have taught me to always do my research. When I say research, I mean not taking the first piece of information provided to you; always
dig deeper. Go extra lengths to find out how objective the original information is. Everything is hear say until it has been put through some type of empirical or scientific research. Many of us do not have time for this, so we leave it to the experts; what I want our readers to do is to start questioning the experts. Question what you read, and demand explanations. I bring this up to the readers because I was given a critique last week concerning my references. The reader had voiced that they did not think that I had provided the correct referencing. I believe that I had mentioned that I would be taking the bulk of my information from the Erin Oaks lectures that I was attending, but I think that what I will do in the future is provide more references for the community to research for themselves. I want readers to be able to question me, and question the information that I deliver. I want to thank this reader for helping put more into my writing, which will in the end benefit the community. Another topic was brought to my attention by one of my readers. She has a son who she noticed was not developing the same way her other children
were. She was unsure of what to do, so she chose to ignore it. As her son began to grow, she noticed that things were not changing for him. The older he got, the more frustrating his lack of development was to her. Children pick up on this behavior, so he began to shut down, which caused her to shut down. This vicious cycle is common and needs to be addressed. I want the community to know that the worst thing you can ever do is ignore a problem. These problems will not go away and they will continue to grow and grow; they will eventually get to the point that the issue is beyond you. I want the readers to understand that developmental issues are common and there is help in the community for you. The first step is to accept the fact that your child is not developing at the same rate as children in their cohort. This is the hardest step, and I would suggest reaching out to your family doctor as soon as you have the suspicion. They will be able to set up assessments for your child so that you can determine the next steps to take. Be proactive in your situation; do not be the victim. Surround yourself with positive supportive people; these can be in the way of community events, or support groups. It is important that you have sup-
port for yourself as well as your child. This is a difficult transition for you. It is hard to accept that your child will have difficulties functioning in their day to day lives. We all want to know that we are raising children who will be able to adapt to their environment and function independently in this world. It is okay to feel despair; just do not let this despair cripple you. Use this situation to strengthen you. It is said that life will not give you more than you can bare; remember that and know that you are going to get through it. I hope that I have had a chance to address everything that has been brought up to me. My goal is to continue to provide information for the community. I want to arm you with knowledge because knowledge is power. I want the people in the community to know the power that they have and exercise it when they need to. Life is not always going to be as we want it to be. Life is going to throw you curve balls; take solace in the fact that there are people out here who will help you get through these times. Let us continue to work together as a community.
FORWANTED SALE HELP
FORWANTED SALE HELP
NOW HIRING: Brampton Caribbean restaurant hiring for various positions. Contact Tropical Paradise Restaurant - Phone: 905455-8100 KITCHEN HELP: Now hiring Chinese Chef and West India Cook for busy Mississauga Restaurant/Bar. Please contact Caribbean Sunset 905-564-7800 SALES: Now hiring full/part time sales reps. MUST be experienced and self motivated. Great income potential. Serious inquiries only please. Please contact Avi 647-722-6298 WAITRESS: Waitress and general help wanted for restaurant/bar. Long term for during the week and weekends Call 416419-7858 if you are interested
FOR SALE WANTED
FOR SALE WORSHIP
DRIVER: Driver wanted to drive cargo van. Main and Danforth call 416-938-3753 or 416-686-5502 LABOURERS: Workers needed for packaging jobs in Scarborough area. Also needed movers. Phone 647-748-4477 and leave message
FOR SALE FOR SALE TRINIDAD: Woodbrook, 2 bdrm house for business or residence. Minutes to Savannah, Downtown, Entertainment, Schools, Shopping, Businesses, Local Transit… Call: 647-402-4717
FOR SALE WORSHIP WORSHIP: Worship with us at Solid Rock Miracle Center 689 Warden Ave at 11am . Sunday school at 10.05am. 416-293-1839
TRINIDAD: Two lot space with House and Grocery Stores Available for sale South Trinidad Penal Area Great potential with lots of room for expansion. Call 416-4577561
LIST UP TO 30 WORDS FREE!
Send your information to info@torontocaribbean.com or call 647-722-6298
SUNDAY SERVICE: Fountain of Truth Ministries Pastor: Reverend Maxine Campbell Worship Address: 2170 Kipling Avenue, Etobicoke Percy Johnson School – Cafeteria Sundays: 10.am – 2. pm Teaching, Worship, Ministering For info call: 416 748 0211 RECOVERY THURSDAYS: You CAN recover from your hurts, habits and hangups! Rosewood Church of the Nazarene, 657 Milner Ave, Scarborough, ON. M1B 2K4. Free. Light dinner at 6:30pm. Meeting 7pm-9pm Pastor Arnie 416-459-1462
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astrology
Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 7, 2015
ARIES
TAURUS
Mars and Jupiter in Virgo is a helpful strip-itdown and/or get-on-task influence. Despite Mercury retrograde, you should make decent headway with the work, upgrades, and learning curve. Something you’ve run across or used in the past is worth another go-round. If you aren’t sure or secure, give it more time. Tuesday onward gives you more to go on.
Thursday and Friday are good people days. Make the most of them. Ask questions, consider more options. When you’re in a quandary, leave it open-ended and allow for circumstances to play out. By mid next week, you should feel you’re gaining a better sense of it all. Creativity, confidence, and opportunity are on the upswing as of next Wednesday/Thursday.
GEMINI
CANCER
The month opens on a fairly positive, upbeat note. Thursday and Friday are great for a kick-start, socializing, promoting yourself, and romance. Tuesday calls for creative smarts. Wednesday is your best get-it-rolling day of the week. Dress the part, be an attention-getter, say what’s on your mind. Follow through on an impulse or a whim. Ideas and conversation keep to a good flow.
Despite Mercury retrograde, Jupiter in good shape with Pluto loans you good coping skills. You’ll find a talent for stretching your resources and working around what you need to. You’ll also have sharper instincts for spotting what works and what isn’t worth your time or money. Back out or say no if you want to. Sunday onward, you’re on to something fresh.
LEO
VIRGO
Mercury retrograde continues to be aptly timed for a rethink or revisit. Venus in Leo keeps you making the most of it through next Thursday. Along with the rest of the stars, you should feel that you’re coming up with the right equation for yourself. Tuesday’s stars run the gamut. Wednesday pieces it together for you easily, readily, and well.
Look and listen. Allow yourself more time to monitor your feelings and observe what’s going on around you. Keep your heart and your commitments open-ended while Mercury continues through retrograde. Sunday through Tuesday is productive for sorting it out. By the end of the next weekend, you should feel like you’ve made it over the hump and/or reached your goal posts.
LIBRA
SCORPIO
Not all Mercury retrogrades are equal. Have you coasted through this one? Whether you have or haven’t, the benefit of Mercury retrograde in Libra is that it provides an opportunity to take a step back and observe from a fresh angle. Despite delays or sidetracks, this speeds up the figure-it-out process. As of mid next week, you’ll hit an upswing.
Take a load off. Low-key, chilling with your lover, or off doing your own thing is ideal for the weekend. Taking extra time to think things through and get yourself better organized is also a good use of your time; Sunday through Tuesday is for doing just that. By mid next week, it will be time to get up and at ’em again.
SAGITTARIUS
CAPRICORN
Continue to give yourself extra wiggle room until Mercury finishes retrograde. Thursday can see you back out of a commitment or revise a goal. Spontaneity delivers best through the weekend, too. Go by feel on Tuesday. Tuesday evening is good for romance, creative pursuits, letting it slip, or zoning out. Wednesday puts you in the right place, time, and headspace.
Shop around for a better deal or interest rate. Stay flexible, get a second opinion, aim for win/win, but don’t scrimp on your needs. Taking more time to observe, plan, negotiate, or make it official is advised through Tuesday. Mercury retrograde ends next Friday, but as of next Wednesday, you’re okay to hit go and/or sign the contract.
AQUARIUS
PISCES
As is typical of Mercury retrograde, you can meet up with folks you haven’t interfaced with for a while. Perhaps you’ll hear from those who live elsewhere. If something you’ve hoped for doesn’t pan out, know that it simply creates room for something better. Friday is your best social night. Through Tuesday, take it one step at a time.
Mercury retrograde may set you back somewhat, but as early as the weekend, you should find yourself regaining good ground. Even so, proceed with caution through Tuesday night. Mars in opposition to Neptune is good for romance, relaxation, and creativity, but not for details or practicality. Enjoy and splurge, but also remember to stay within reasonable limits.
March 20 - April 19
May 20 - June 21
July 22 - August 22
September 22 - October 23
November 22 - December 21
January 19 - February 18
April 19 - May 20
June 21 - July 22
August 22 - September 22
October 23 - November 22
December 21 - January 19
February 18 - March 19
Across 3) Cream ____ 4) Citrus-flavoured soda 7) Things go better with it 8) Money back when you return bottles 12) A&W or Mug 14) Lemon-lime soda 15) Choice of a new generation 16) Technical term for fizzy bubbles Down 1) Canada Dry or Schweppes 2) Gin mixer 4) Pop plus ice cream 5) Tasty cola addition 6) 12-pack or 24-pack 8) Low-calorie option 9) Orange ____ 10) 23 flavours 11) ____ Dew 13) 1L or 2L
PAGE 44
self help
Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 7, 2015
The concept of resetting Noel Walrond
noel@carib101.com
Professional Development Some people have asked me if me if I ever get down, frustrated or challenged... my answer has been “OF COURSE” LOL. They ask how I deal with it in order to stay positive. I speak to my
students about the concept of RESETTING. There are a number of steps in it, but I will share just one for now: The other night I was confronted with some disturbing news and the result was I didn’t sleep well. When I woke up in the morning I was still lamenting. As a result I couldn’t concentrate. I felt numb. I decided to take a TIME OUT. I turned off my phone and computer. I plugged in the movie The MATRIX. As I watched Neo transform from being a simple guy to becoming “The ONE”.. I got inspired. The lessons he learned from Morpheus were also inspiring. The more I watched,
the better I felt. By the time I was done I felt RE-CHARGED! I got back to work and it became a very productive day. There are times when you need to cut the world off and take some time for yourself to get recalibrated. There are times I go on “read-athons”, watch inspiring “video-athons”, or listen to inspiring “audio-athons”. Sometimes I listen to inspiring music. The point is that I indulge in an exercise that shifts my focus from negatives to something positive and constructive. When you FEEL better you DO BETTER. All of us have down mo-
ments. The goal is to avoid having down HOURS, DAYS, WEEKS & YEARS! When you realize that happiness is a choice, and that we are in control of where we focus our energy and our thoughts. It is liberating. You can DECIDE to no longer be a prisoner of circumstances, but rather a champion of life. Let’s go claim our championship trophy. We deserve it. Try some of the techniques I have shared and let me know how it goes. I hope this helped someone today. Have a POWERFUL Day!
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