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Volume 11 • Issue 2

Wednesday, March 2 2022

“I spent the day yesterday at the front-lines of the violent police seizure of the Freedom Convoy 2022.

My heart is saddened by what Canada has become...

FULL STORY - PAGE 8

PAGE 2

FEATURE

TAMLA MATTHEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 2, 2022

The Talented Terpsichorean

As I watched her dance, I was blown away by the power of her movements. The angular bending of arms, legs, and torso; her shoulders swayed one way, her hips the other. She had found a way to asymmetrically use her body, a fluidity that is often found in African dance. It was the dancing, the singing, and the hyperbole movements merging together evoking a powerful spiritual awakening; watching her dance to Motherless Child was an impactful experience.

I had met Tamla Matthews during the pandemic. It was when Zoom had begun its rise as the way the world communicated. We were both part of a series hosted by Solitair. Upon seeing her, I instantly liked her energy. She has a dazzling smile, an upbeat personality, and a sincere love for people that radiates regardless if you are in person, watching her dance, or speaking to her via Zoom.

I have begun to work closer with Tamla, and the more I have learned about her, the more I am impressed by what she has accomplished in her life. A natural born leader, Tamla has a resume that showcases her God given talents and exemplifies her qualifications. Tamla is the Director of Roots and Branches Children’s Dance Program and the Artistic Director of the Caribbean Dance Theatre, something that she has been doing since she was a teenager. From 2011-2015, she was the Manager of Children’s Programs for the Kaleidoscope Intercultural Arts program for Scarborough Arts and created cultural performing arts programs for two large child welfare agencies in Ontario.

She has worked in various roles for the City of Toronto, was the Operations Manager for Nia Centre for the Arts, produced and was artist Lead for the Routes & Journeys Bluffers Park Arts in the Park Program, and alongside her many other leadership roles is currently the Program Manager for the CHEERS Program at Parkdale Queen West CHC. In 2015, the busy mother of one was recognized for her exceptional work and was featured on the Legacy poster, alongside other successful and prominent Black Canadians who have become driven leaders in our country.

I was surprised at her shock when I asked to interview her for the Woman Empowered feature, but her reaction lends to her humility, and open nature. It is an honour for me to share the journey of Toronto’s talented, terpsichorean Tamla Matthews.

Life started off with Tamla moving back and forth from the Caribbean.

This alone had an incredible impact on her.

“I was born and raised in Edmonton Alberta, and I moved to Ontario just before 12th grade. Both of my parents are from Trinidad. My mom is a certified dietician, and my dad, an engineer. They met each other in Trinidad but ended up in separate countries.” Tamla laughs, “My father must have really loved my mother because he left New York to be with her.

They got married at 19, and they had me at 21.

I had very bad asthma, so my parents decided to move to Trinidad, because they believed it would help with my health. Plus, life in Edmonton at that time was very racist. My dad had to deal with a lot. It was hard for him as a proud Black man to be called ‘Boy.’ He could not take that place. They only moved back to Canada because my health became an issue again. The heat did nothing for my asthma.”

When Tamla learned that she was moving back to Canada, but not to Edmonton, but to Toronto, she could not help but be excited.

“Toronto was the New York of Canada, so when my mom said, let’s move to Toronto, people were like ‘Why?’ We spent three days on the train, and when we arrived, we knew no one. When we moved to Toronto, my siblings still lived in Trinidad, and once we were settled, they joined us in Toronto. Times were tough, but my mom got it done.”

As Tamla shares stories about her time in Scarborough, we both reminisced about places that she used to live. It definitely brought me back to a time.

“We moved to Scarborough, when Fairview mall was Peanut Plaza, and then Malvern before there was Malvern Mall. I don’t remember a lot of racist incidents; the first time that I was called out my name was by an Indian man in Scarborough Town Centre. It was definitely different than living in Edmonton from what I remembered.”

From the time that she could walk, music, and dance were a part of her life.

“I come from a musical family.

When I told my mom I wanted to dance, she put me in ballet, and I didn’t like it.

Then my mom discovered Scarborough Caribbean Sports Club, and my life was

forever changed. I joined Scarborough Caribbean Youth Dance Ensemble when I was 12. The men were on the drums, and the girls would dance.

We used to have fourhour practices, but they were extremely empowering.

African dance styles vary across tribes and nations, but all are deeply steeped in ritual and history. Dance is used for more than simple entertainment. Dance can represent prayer, emotional communication, and rites of passage.

Our dance group stayed together for 20 years, and during that time my leadership abilities really started to show. I think I was 18 years old when I became the Assistant Director and was in charge of the creative visioning. The best part of the experience was learning how to drive a program forward, and it was when I fell in love with the customs’. These spaces helped nurture my love for the people.”

It was when the Minister of Culture at that time came to one of Tamla’s concerts, and she was pointed out as the leader.

“I was the youngest leader in Toronto. I had no idea at that time, but the thought stuck with me. My career has always been very Black; I was very consistent with my connection to Black people in all my work. I know we are valuable; I knew we had to support each other through tough times.”

“What is it about your work that brings you the most joy?” I asked Tamla to wrap up our interview.

“I would say building people’s confidence, and making people feel good about who we are as Black people. It’s about the pride that I can pass on to people, about who we are, that has got to be the most fulfilling thing. Whether it is children or adults. Sometimes we don’t know about ourselves and having the opportunity to teach people who we are is exciting.”

Photo Credit: Nathaniel Anderson

Written by Simone J. Smith Toronto Caribbean News

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Wednesday, March 2, 2022 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

NEWS

PAGE 3

The Ukraine should no longer be a choice destination for African students Diaspora call-out; they need our Help!

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

“I am very quick to defend the Ukrainians for their honesty when it comes to such personal experiences of race.”

Terrell Starr (Independent Scholar, New York) The article (written by Amy Shannon Liedy) documents Terrell’s experience, and how personally impactful his research on racism in the Ukraine was for him; the speaker, who is of African-American descent explained that he was stopped by Ukrainian police 29 times during his stay in Kyiv, and this was in 2011.

He admitted that the presence of racism and xenophobia was increasing in Ukrainian society, and he asserted that improvement is not unfathomable; however, he noted that effective social change must come from above. “What I found in Ukraine,” Starr concluded, “Is that you have to find a combination of political leaders who actually try to deal with the problem.”

It appears that the political leaders of the Ukraine have not wanted to deal with this problem. This has been made clear by the recent online videos of Africans and oth-

er POC, who have not been allowed to board certain trains and other modes of transportation to flee Ukraine. Other media outlets have stated that Africans are claiming that it is because of the colour of their skin. Anyone watching the videos can clearly see the discrimination live and in living colour. There are no “claims” just realities.

This mostly appears to be happening at the Ukrainian-Polish border in the northwest region, where many allege that border agents and local police are literally letting White Ukrainians hop on in while refusing access, or limiting access to Black people. Multiple clips show African migrants being left behind at train stations, and not just that, but actually being pushed back as they try to enter.

A question that may have come to mind is, what are Africans doing in the Ukraine anyways? Great question. Outside of the fact that there are Afro-Ukranians who have settled in the Ukraine, over the last two decades, Ukraine has emerged as a choice destination for African students from Ghana, Nigeria, Zambia, and South Africa, especially in the fields of medicine and engineering.

According to Ukraine’s Ministry of Education and Science, some 80,000 international students study in Ukraine with the largest number from India, followed by Morocco, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan and Nigeria.

The Soviet government began recruiting Africans and financing their studies in the Soviet Union in 1957, which happens to be the same year as Ghana’s Independence.

This is no coincidence. At the time of decolonization [in Africa], the Soviets were trying to promote their positive image in the

Third World, in large part to counterbalance anti-Soviet Western propaganda.

When communism ended in 1991, the recruiting of African students and the generous scholarships that were offered to them came all of a sudden stopped. Ukraine no longer offers the financial incentives it once did during communism, but it is still an appealing country for international students.

For one, it’s easier for Africans to get a Ukrainian visa than one from a European country.

Tuition and fees at a Ukrainian university are also much lighter on the wallet than an institution in Britain or the United States.

The blatant racism that is currently being seen is not new. In 2007, eight racially motivated murders occurred in Ukraine, according to the African Center. The murders continued into 2008 with some of the victims being African students. The Ukraine government did step in; the national parliament passed an anti-racism legislation and heads of African NGOs that track racial incidents claim that violent attacks have dropped significantly.

Surprisingly, many students say they had no prior knowledge of Ukraine’s xenophobia issues before arriving. One common complaint is that of being accosted with racial slurs and other demeaning language

by Ukrainian youths on the streets.

Currently, there are about 900 students and in total, there are about 1,500 Ghanaians in Ukraine. According to the ministry, over a thousand Ghanaian nationals are currently studying or working in Ukraine, adding that the ministry is “gravely concerned” for their safety.

Similarly, some 4,000 Nigerians

studying in tertiary institutions have been sending distress calls for their evacuation from the threat of war.

Nigeria’s Foreign Minister Geofrey Onyeama said he had spoken with his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba and had been assured that Ukrainian border guards had been given an order to allow all foreigners leaving Ukraine to pass without restrictions.

Nigeria’s ministry of foreign affairs has now advised its citizens leaving Ukraine to head for Hungary or Romania, rather than trying to enter Poland.

A special flight operation was announced, and the Nigerian ambassador to Romania has told the BBC that so far about 200 Nigerians - mostly students - have arrived in the capital Bucharest from Ukraine.

Safiya Nuhu said many more were still arriving.

After catching wind of the racist discrimination taking place at Ukraine’s borders, Young Thug took to his Instagram Stories on Sunday, February 27th, 2022 to offer his support to the country’s African population while calling on his rap peers to chip in.

“If some of my rap brothers are in I’m willing to help Africans get out of Ukraine however I can sense they are not letting us pass,” he wrote. “Whoever holds the info for these movements please contact me ASAP I’m ready.”

Africans in the Diaspora; this is a call out to all of us. Once again, we have to band together and find a way to help our young brothers and sisters out. Who is ready? Email me at simone@carib101.com with any ideas that you might have.

Human Rights Project You’re Invited to Become a Member of Peel Regional Police’s Anti-Racism Advisory Committee (ARAC) The Peel Regional Police (PRP), Peel Police Services Board (PSB), and the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) are developing a comprehensive plan to identify and address systemic racism in Peel policing.

An important part of this initiative is the formation of a diverse, independent AntiRacism Advisory Committee (ARAC). The ARAC will inform and advise the PRP’s Human Rights Project as it addresses a number of commitments to action systemic racism in the Peel Police.

The ARAC will be comprised of members who live and/or work in Brampton or Mississauga with diverse backgrounds and understanding of our community. To be effective, remain nimble, and efficient, it is expected that the ARAC will comprise 12-21 members and will be formed by May 2022. The work of the ARAC will contribute to fair and equitable policing throughout Peel Region, making our community better for all.

Prior to completing the application, we encourage you to read the frequently asked questions (FAQ) and the Terms of Reference (ToR) to get a better understanding of the application process and what is expected of you as an ARAC member.

The application, along with characteristics and competency expectations, will be available online and can be submitted from February 22 until March 5 at PeelPolice.ca/HumanRightsProject.

If you have any questions or are unable to complete the application form online, please contact us: ARAC@PeelPolice.ca.

NEWS

Wednesday, March 2, 2022 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 5

Photo Credit: Nobellum

Building an Ecosystem to usher in a new era of Black-owned businesses in Science, Technology, Engineering & Math PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

There is no doubt that the future is bright and brilliant for University of Toronto graduate Melissa Ellis as she excels in entrepreneurship and innovation. Her success story was featured in the February issue of the University of Toronto’s online magazine, which can be seen at utsc.utoronto.ca.

Melissa graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) specialist degree in history and a minor in African studies in 2015. Her volunteering experience on the U of T Scarborough campus nurtured her gifts and abilities and honed her talents. It inculcated “Valuable transferable skills in project coordination, communication, and leadership - all of which buoyed her confidence to pivot and pursue software engineering after graduation.”

Ellis states, “I was beginning to see that it doesn’t matter what industry you go into: tech is coming. Whether you’re in law, accounting, you name it. Managers will be asking, ‘How good are you with databases?

How good are you with SOL?’ By adding tech to your skillset, you’re training to become a leader across departments. You can become a unicorn.”

She started Nobellum Enterprise (Nobellum) in 2020 which according to her website: nobellum.com is “A non-profit social and technology enterprise dedicated to carving out a space in the technology industry for Black founders in STEM. We are a community of Black and Indigenous People of Color who believes that the time to break into the tech industry is now. Togeth-

er, we are building an ecosystem to usher in a new era of Black-owned businesses in Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM).”

The purpose of Nobellum is, “To connect, To innovate, To fund” and its vision is, “To create a safe space for Black youth in tech and entrepreneurship. Where tech meets non-tech.” This cutting-edge and revolutionary organization is futuristic, optimistic, and realistic in its short-term goals. The mandate is “By 2025, Nobellum will launch at least 100 Black-owned startups in STEM.” I interviewed Natassia Morris from DAYO Media & Communications on Wednesday, February 16th,, 2022 regarding the positive aspects of this new social and technology enterprise. She informed me that Melissa Ellis has been making major inroads in the technological field through her creativity, originality, and ingenuity. There is a team that works with Melissa, which includes Malcolm Wright who serves as Director of Operations at Nobellum. Malcolm states, “The goal is not only to equip Black students with transferable skills and knowledge but also to forge and amplify pathways towards a more diverse and inclusive tech industry for Black entrepreneurs nationwide.”

Nobellum partnered with the U of T’s Scarborough’s campus-linked accelerators: The Bridge and The Hub, along with the Black Founders and the University of Toronto Entrepreneurship community.

Natassia told me about the launch of the Nobellum Innovator Program held on Saturday, February 26th, 2022. It featured Melissa Ellis as well as other Nobellum team members: Stephanie Perpick, Dave Fenton, Efosa Obano, Donovan Dill, Gray Graffam, Miranda Cain, and Rustum Southwell. Nobellum is poised to take the tech world by storm. There are great days ahead for this initiative.

CANADA’S LEADING CARIBBEAN NEWSPAPER Selina McCallum TC REPORTER selina@carib101.com

Noel Cunningham FOOD | CULINARY noel@carib101.com

Dave Rankin AFRICAN HISTORY dave@carib101.com

Jay Brijpaul REAL ESTATE jay@carib101.com

TORONTO CARIBBEAN NEWS INC. 55 Rutherford Rd. S., Suite 205, Brampton ON L6W 3J3 647-722-6298 | www.TOCaribNews.com

Simone J. Smith TC REPORTER simone@carib101.com

Dave Rankin TC REPORTER dave@carib101.com

Dr. Vikas Puri HEALTH | WELLNESS drpuri@carib101.com

Paul Junor EDUCATION paul@carib101.com

Fazaad Bacchus FINANCE SPECIALIST fazaad@carib101.com

PUBLISHER | EDITOR Grant Browning grant@carib101.com

Michael Thomas TC REPORTER michael@carib101.com

Christina Gwira TC TECH REPORTER christina@carib101.com

Errol A. Gibbs PHILOSOPHER errol@carib101.com

Brittney Channer SOCIAL JUSTICE brittney@carib101.com

Andrew Stewart FAMILY INSURANCE andrew@carib101.com

EDITOR | PROOFING Alanna Zelau alanna@carib101.com

Stephen Weir TC REPORTER stephen@carib101.com

Paul Junor TC EDUCATION REPORTER paul@carib101.com

Simone J. Smith HUMAN SPECIALIST simone@carib101.com

Christina Gwira TECHNOLOGY christina@carib101.com

Kayla Karim CARIBBEAN SPORTS kayla@carib101.com

ADVERTISING MANAGER Trish Browning trish@carib101.com

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Wednesday, March 2, 2022 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News Photo Credit: CNC3

Breaking research showing that COVID-19 vaccine recipients are developing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The average fully vaccinated Canadian is down to the last 18.45% of their immune system that is necessary for fighting certain classes of viruses and certain cancers etc. This is what vaccination has done to the people of Canada.

If you think this is just Canada, think again. This is worldwide and the government documents are there to prove it, so after reading this article you will find the links below.

These government documents paint a gloomy picture for those who are partially as well as fully injected, showing by numbers the extent to which their immune system has been compromised and, in some cases, severely depleted.

Here are some of the facts: In Scotland, the rate of infection in the fully injected is more than double that of those that are not injected, yet our elected leaders are trying to tell us that this is a plandemic of the un-injected.

An alarming number of people who have received the injection - be it one or two doses - are now realizing that they are HIV-positive patients. This means that these individuals can die from a simple infection like a common cold, which the ordinary person fights off easily.

Vaccines are supposed to help the immune system fight off disease, but this is not the case nowadays, therefore, when the authorities state that the effectiveness of the vaccines weaken over time, what they mean is that the performance of your immune system weakens over time.

Let’s take a look at some evidence from the UK The UKHSA Vaccine Surveillance Report – Week 5 – 2022, presents the COVID-19 case rates per 100,000 by injection status for each age group over the age of eighteen in England, plus the average case rate per 100,000 for all adults in England.

The case rate per 100k is the lowest among the un-injected population in all age groups, with case rates among the triple vaccinated population approximately twice the rate seen among the un-injected in most age groups, and case rates among the double injected population approximately three times the rate seen among the un-injected in most age groups.

The average immune system performance against death among all adults equates to 53% in Scotland, which is slight-

ly ahead of the average, 50% seen in England. This is because the injecting began at the same time, and would be expected to be around the same.

This evidence means that we can be assured the data is reliably telling us the COVID-19 injections are not just ineffective but damage the immune system to the point that the recipients are developing acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and are much more likely to die than the unvaccinated population.

Canadian data shows that the injections are damaging the immune system in real-time.

Here are some of the pitfalls associated with this deadly injection.

These include but are not limited to: • A potentially direct causal link to neurodegenerative disease • Myocarditis • Immune thrombocytopenia • Bell’s palsy • Liver disease • Impaired adaptive immunity • Increased production or formation of a tumour or tumours • DNA damage Dr. Peter Mccullough, conducted the study alongside Dr. Anthony Kyriakopoulos, Dr. Greg Nigh, and Dr. Stephenie Sennef. They are the doctors responsible for bringing these crimes against humanity to light.

He also provides evidence from adverse event reports made to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) to support their conclusions.

“Together, these data suggested that after vaccination, at least by day 28, other than generation of neutralizing antibodies, people’s immune systems including those of lymphocytes and monocytes were, perhaps, in a more vulnerable state.”

Meanwhile in the USA The Defense Medical Epidemiology Database, or DMED, clearly reveals a spike in major diseases beginning in 2021 right after Donald Trump unveiled the jabs under Operation Warp Speed.

Illnesses in the military are on the rise like perhaps never before, and the only thing that has changed is that soldiers are now being forced to take these experimental shots.

I can go on and on with this state of affairs forever, but the fact remains millions of people are being hurt and something needs to be done to stop this madness.

No one and I repeat no one have the right to force, threaten, or stigmatize another person into putting this so-called injection into their body. People reserve the right to refuse, do their research and come to an informed conclusion on what is healthy or unhealthy for them on a caseby-case issue; anything less than this is grounds for Nuremberg 2.

NEWS

PAGE 7

NEWS

PAGE 8

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 2, 2022

Our Prime Ministers undemocratic and unethical power grab is what caused this crisis SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

“I spent the day yesterday at the frontlines of the violent police seizure of the Freedom Convoy 2022 core on Wellington St. My heart is saddened by what Canada has become. Peaceful protesters, pleading with police to see through the misinformation, were shoved back, beaten, pepper sprayed and reportedly shot at with rubber bullets by heavily armed police in riot gear with armoured vehicles stationed close by.

Deepening the sadness is the gas lighting and disinformation put out

by Ottawa Police and their Chief Steve Bell saying that protesters are actually attacking the police, and none have been injured. We have several reliable accounts of protesters being “arrested” and then dropped 20 minutes away from the core and coerced into signing a document saying they will not return.

As politicians around the world condemn Canada’s new police-state behaviour, the message is clear: any dissent against the Trudeau government will not be tolerated. Freedom of speech, assembly, movement, and the press have all fallen to what is now essentially a militarized zone with pedestrians in the “secured zone” being questioned and ordered back to their hotel rooms or to leave outright. Will Canadians start to see through the misinformation and join what the truckers started?”

Gord Parks, BLN

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Where and how will this end?

This eerily looks like the beginnings of a Chinese communist style “social credit” system in Canada! That is where your compliance to every government policy whim is monitored and ensured at the pain of complete expulsion from society. Let’s be very clear about this; Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has brought authoritarianism and tyranny to Canada.

The Emergencies Act was evoked for the first time in Canadian history. The Emergencies Act was developed out of the War Measures Act, and it was employed to combat wars and domestic terrorism, none of which was happening in Canada.

Trudeau employed it to stop a peaceful protest in our nation’s capital. Again, it is interesting that this was employed after everyone had already gone home.

What the Emergency Act did was allow the Trudeau government to control protests: as Canadians, you cannot participate or travel to public assemblies the government deems unlawful, nor can you host such a protest on your own private property. Not only does Trudeau’s new powers severely restrict our civil liberties now, but it sets a precedent that will allow future governments to stifle peaceful protest!

Is this what we want our younger generation to see; that supporters of grassroots peaceful protests in the future will have reason to fear being financially pun-

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“What we are very proud of now is the young generation like Prime Minister (Justin) Trudeau. Yesterday I was at a reception for Trudeau, and I know that half of his cabinet, or even more than half, are Young Global Leaders.”

Klaus Schwab (Head of the World Economic Forum)

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ple from other countries reach out to me and say, “What the hell is happening in Canada?” The funny (not so funny) thing is that as disturbing as it was to watch the violence of out-of-control police carry out the will of our Prime Minister, there was another crackdown, which we didn’t find out about until the dust had settled.

Justin Trudeau and his Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland awarded themselves the authority to freeze the bank accounts of the Freedom Convoy’s organizers, as well as anyone who they suspect helped or contributed money to them.

That’s right. Canadians had their bank accounts seized by the Liberal government because they donated to a political cause that was retroactively declared illegal by the federal government. Once again, I have received phone calls from community members who are locked out of their account because they donated money to a cause they believed in.

It is interesting; what exactly is Klaus Schwab proud of? Is it the fact that one of his prized students had destroyed his country?

The current protest against vaccine mandates in Canada reveal that government authority and legitimacy are fragile. There are members of our government who claim that circumstances require extraordinary measures; they have found that their citizens also are capable of extraordinary measures as well.

This is why, for the sake of constitutional order, their frivolous claim for extraordinary powers have to stop. The worst part of this pandemic has passed; the real emergency however is the permanent appeal to emergency. The Trudeau government have imposed sweeping social and economic controls that have cost Canadians hundreds of billions of dollars in losses. Let’s not talk about the immeasurable emotional, psychological, spiritual, and physical turmoil – turmoil that has helped fuel the protests that you are seeing all across the globe.

It was disturbing to see how other countries were viewing us. To have peo-

I spent a few minutes reading and re-reading this account from Gord Parks. I thought about what had been said about the protests all over mainstream media. They had demonized these people, our Prime Minister was calling them racist, when I knew people from the Caribbean community who had attended the protest, and personally told me that there was nothing but love for almost three weeks. The undaunted Freedom Convoy protesters never stopped singing ‘O Canada’, never stopped hug-

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ging, never stopped praying. The accounts that I heard from people sound more like what Gord Parks had to say.

It was not until this militarized action, brought to head by Prime Minister Trudeau, did things begin to get messy.

That is when we started to see violence in the streets of Ottawa. What has been hidden from those of us, who watch CNN, and CP24, is that the violence we were seeing was provoked and stoked by the police. They came outfitted in riot gear; they brutalized and arrested the peaceful demonstrators of the Freedom Convoy while threatening to arrest journalists for reporting what they were doing. Each day the violence escalated, until we saw the horrifying images of people being pepper sprayed and tear gassed.

This has been a dark time in Canadian history, and we have one person to thank for that: our Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau.

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ished by their government, just for supporting a peaceful assembly?

Of course, you have the Prime Minister cheerleading team, headed up by NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, who has expressed support for Trudeau invoking the Emergencies Act, Thankfully, there were some elected leaders who began to stand up against Trudeau. Quebec Premier Francois Legault, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney, and Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe have all condemned this act. Never in Canadian history have provinces not been able to accommodate protests by themselves and control them when they become dangerous or disruptive. The Emergencies Act can only be invoked when an issue cannot be dealt with by provinces, and to them, this was a clear overstep.

Multiple civil rights groups have also condemned Trudeau. Both the Canadian Civil Liberties Association and the Canadian Constitutional Foundation have spoken out against it, stating that the federal government has not met the threshold necessary to invoke the Emergencies Act. A deeply undemocratic and unethical power grab is what caused this crisis and layering on more power grabs will never solve it. This is the biggest attempt to grab power in Canadian history. It cannot be allowed to happen. Both Trudeau and Ford must be electorally banished from power, and we must ensure that no one ever abuses our democracy in the way they have again!

Even though the Emergencies Act was revoked, questions remain about what might be the long-term effects of invoking such extraordinary measures to silence protestors. On a larger scale, these actions set a dangerous precedent of how the government decides to go after protests, and leaves open the door to using the same tactics in the future.

The urgent need is for our government, and all world governments to abandon urgency and return to the slow, steady business of governance.

The beauty, in a way is that all of this has brought different members of Canada together in an unimaginable way.

When David Icke speaks about ending this with love, the Trucker Convoy exemplifies that point.

WE are love. WE are Canadians.

Trudeau you are no longer a part of this equation.

NEWS

Wednesday, March 2, 2022 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 9

New Heart & Stroke Report shows how Canada is failing people with heart failure SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

“Heart failure is an epidemic. It’s one of the fastest growing cardiovascular conditions in the world.”

Dr. Anique Ducharme, President of the Canadian Heart Failure Society Heart failure is a serious and growing problem in Canada, putting a significant strain on people living with the condition, their families and healthcare systems according to a new Heart & Stroke report.

Heart failure is a chronic condition caused by the heart not functioning as it should or by a problem with its structure.

It can happen if the heart is too weak or too stiff, or both. This often results in fatigue and shortness of breath, and those living with the condition often experience depression and anxiety and reduced quality of life. The toll can also be substantial on family and other caregivers who manage medications, medical appointments and frequent trips to the emergency department.

Anything that damages the heart can lead to heart failure. Experts expect heart failure will continue to rise due to the aging population and an increase in younger people being diagnosed due to better detection tools and increased risk factors. As well,

the COVID-19 virus can cause heart damage which can lead to heart failure, and the pandemic disrupted healthcare services resulting in people with existing heart conditions not accessing care and ending up sicker.

Heart failure is one of the top reasons why people in Canada are hospitalized.

In fact, it is often referred to as a ‘revolving door’ condition because one in five heart failure patients will be readmitted to hospital within a month of being discharged. By 2030, the healthcare costs associated with heart failure in Canada are expected to reach $2.8 billion per year.

Most people with heart failure have at least one other significant cardiovascular condition and often up to seven (for example diabetes, hypertension, atrial fibrillation), complicating treatment and impacting quality of life. Nearly half of patients with heart failure will die within five years of being diagnosed.

The report reveals that heart failure touches one in three Canadians, either because they have it themselves or because it affects a family member or close friend.

Other data highlighted in the report includes: • In Canada, there are 750,000 people living with heart failure and 100,000 people are diagnosed with this incurable condition each year.

• According to the Heart & Stroke poll, Canadians do not understand the condition or the urgency: • Four in ten Canadians do not understand what heart failure is.

• One in three Canadians do not know that heart failure is on the rise.

•

Two in three Canadians do not know there is no cure for heart failure.

Early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, access to medication, medical devices like pacemakers, artificial heart valves or pumps, and community support can improve health outcomes and quality of life. Unfortunately, different circumstances can impact the treatment and support people with heart failure receive including ethnicity, income, gender, and location.

I wanted to learn more about this because I know that cardiovascular diseases are common in people from the Caribbean.

In an article “The Risk of Cardiovascular Disease Among Immigrants in Canada” (Sneha A. Sebastian, Chaithanya Avanthika, Sharan Jhaveri, Keila G. Carrera, Genesis P. Camacho L, Ramya Balasubramanian), I learned that cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks are of concern among immigrants and refugees settling in developed host countries. Black immigrants living in Ontario, Canada tend to have more prevalent risk factors of CVD such as type II diabetes mellitus (27.6% male and 94.2% women) vs White Canadians (18.8% male and 21.7% women).

I was delighted to have an opportunity to speak with Dr Peter Liu (Chief Scientific Officer and Vice President of Research at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute). He shared some compelling information that I believe our community needs to know.

“Four in ten Canadians do not understand what heart failure is,” Dr. Liu begins.

“The heart is a pumping organ that pumps blood to the rest of the body, and there are various factors to consider. The heart has to work harder, especially if you have high blood

pressure, or diabetes. With all this work, the heart muscle can get tired, and this means that it can no longer meet the demands of the body. Blood can back up into the lungs, and in the legs they will swell.”

What the majority of Canadians don’t realize is that this process can be quite silent, and you might not even realize that your heart is failing until you start experiencing symptoms.

“Studies in Africa and also in Caribbean Islands show that there has been an increase in high blood pressure in the last twenty years, and it is getting more severe,” Dr. Liu continues. “There are environmental conditions (eating more processed food, more salty foods, less natural foods), and then you have to take into consideration the technology transition which has led to a sedentary lifestyle.”

Special Notes • One in three Canadians do not know that heart failure is on the rise.

• Two in three Canadians do not know there is no cure for heart failure.

“Treatments now are a lot better than before,” Dr. Liu concludes. “The downside is that those who should be getting treatment are not. It is truly a silent killer, by the time they come to us it is too late. What I do is address the risk factors, and lifestyle changes with my patients. Medicines that are appropriate for the patient can make a difference.

We want our heart patients to become their own doctors. The patient lives with the condition, if we can monitor it and address the issues, you can have a much better hold on your situation, and save yourself from a lot of pain and suffering in the future.”

Second Chance movie starring Spragga Benz gets standing ovation in US EUGENE PITTER eugene@carib101.com

ENTERTAINMENT REPORTER

JAMAICA -- Jamaicans here and abroad are in a celebratory mood as they were twenty years ago when Cess Silvera’s directed movie, Shottas placed the tropical isle, nestling 2.7 million people, on the movie world-class map. This population has increased to just shy of the three million mark.

Then Shottas, a crime drama, mirrored the life of a gangster played by international reggae dancehall act, Spragga Benz who became a hero, not only on the streets of Jamaica, but abroad.

Now, Spragga Benz (born Carlton Grant) packed with accolades from some of his gold platinum music, is again in the spotlight, in Second Chance.

The movie, which played to a full house, got a standing ovation from a list of distinguished fans including Bob’s Marley’s son Ky-mani, at its premiere at the Savor Cinema, Florida, United States, on February 17th, 2022.

The overjoyed, but humble star of the show Spragga Benz, thanked the entire team, including movie director Cleon James.

He is founder of Boston-based Top-Notch Vision films.

“I have had great moments in my music career. However, this moment is very special,” Spragga shares.

“I was surprised when everyone got up at the end of the movie and cheered for seconds. The love was outpoured by persons near and far.”

Second Chance features a qualified Rastafarian (Spragga Benz) who plays the role of David King. He tries to get a job in corporate America but fails. Discouraged, he meets with some of his old school friends and turns to a life of crime.

However, faced with the decision of life or death, he returns to his Rastafarian faith and spirituality. In the end, not only the

King, but also most of the characters got a second chance in life.

Spragga Benz explains that “Second Chance has a universal theme that will resonate well with people all over the world.

If only some of us could get a second chance, we would resurrect our lives.”

The movie also features actress Merlissa Determined who has several movies on Netflix, well-known dancehall artiste and DJ Matterhorn, famed DJ Supa Twitch, prominent DJ Barrie Hype, Jodie Covington and up-coming actor Jhonni de la Puente.

Based on the tremendous response movie director/writer, Jamaican-born Cleon James is expected to take the movie across the US, Canada, UK and the Caribbean, including Jamaica.

NEWS

PAGE 10

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 2, 2022

The Government is not here to help, so we have to help ourselves Six ways to relieve your anxiety and depression their mental health, indicating a significant drop in overall worker mental health since the beginning of COVID-19.

This is the part of the report that I found most interesting; substance use is on the rise in Canada during this extended pandemic. A 2020 poll found that 25% of Canadians aged 35-54 and 21% of those aged 18-34 had increased their alcohol consumption since social distancing and self isolation due to COVID-19 began. Another study found that Canadians who described their mental health as ‘fair’ or ‘poor’ were more likely than those with better mental health to have increased their use of alcohol, cannabis and tobacco during the early stages of the pandemic. Yet, our government decided that gyms should be closed, but the LCBO was considered an essential service. This topic is a whole other story, but I truly believe that the government needs to be held accountable for their direct involvement in the declining mental health of their people.

Thankfully, there are simple actions you can take to stay sane and even boost your mental health. Research shows that there are simple strategies and lifestyle changes that can improve anxiety and depression symptoms. Here are six evidencebased ways to combat these common mental health problems so you can keep your mental health relatively intact even as the gas, food, and life prices soar.

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Trust me; I get it! Life has become extremely overwhelming. If you’re feeling anxious or depressed because you can’t afford to fuel up your car (good Lord; at these prices, who can), or buy groceries, you aren’t alone.

With the cost of living at an all-time high in Canada, and individuals still pulling together the pieces from pandemic lockdowns, who could blame you? Now, there is no instant remedy for our current economic situation, but we have to ensure that these stresses are not breaking us down mentally.

According to a 2020 report presented by CAMH (Mental Health in Canada: COVID-19 and Beyond) COVID-19 continues to have a negative impact on Canadians’ mental health, with many seeing their stress levels double since the onset of the pandemic. People are struggling with fear and uncertainty about their own health and their loved ones’ health, concerns about employment and finances, and the social isolation that comes from public health measures such as quarantining and physical distancing. It is interesting, despite hearing these reports, the government continued with their rolling lockdowns, instead of taking another approach. Hmmm!

A recent poll found that 50% of Canadians reported worsening mental health since the pandemic began with many feeling worried (44%) and anxious (41%). One in ten Canadians polled said that their mental health had worsened as a result of COVID-19. Similar results were found in a survey of Canadian workers, where 81% reported that the pandemic is negatively impacting

Get off your Couch and get Outside!

Getting outdoors is a great return on investment. Research published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 2015 found that walking outside for 90 minutes reduced rumination, which is a pattern of negative, repetitive thoughts (also known as “doom spiraling”). People who walked in nature also showed a decrease in activity in the subgenual prefrontal cortex, which is part of the brain associated with emotion, compared to people who walked in a busy urban area, suggesting there’s a unique benefit to natural

space. Get up and get out!

Get off your Couch and Exercise!

When you’re feeling depressed, exercise is usually the last thing that you want to do, but moving your body brings great benefits to the mind, sometimes to a surprising extent. In a 2007 study published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine, people with major depression were randomly assigned to a group exercise program, home exercise, an antidepressant or a placebo pill for sixteen weeks.

At the end of the study, 45% of people in the group exercise classes and 40% of the home exercisers no longer met the criteria for major depressive disorder.

Amazing! This was statistically similar to the 47% rate of recovery seen in the antidepressant group. This means that it doesn’t matter how bad you feel; get up and move. It will make you feel better.

Get off your Couch and go meet up with Friends!

The pandemic has made isolation a norm, but this is not normal for human beings.

We need to be around people. Loneliness is linked to depressive symptoms as well as a whole host of health problems, from poor sleep to poorer immune function to death.

Research does show that loneliness can be beaten back, though: Interventions such as support groups or increased opportunities for social interaction can help people make connections. Even easier, pick up the phone, and give that person you haven’t spoken to for a while a call. Set up a time to meet them safely and exchange all that good energy.

Get off your Phone!

PLEASE PUT DOWN THE PHONE! Stop the doom scrolling. Certain types of screen time definitely take a toll on mental health.

For example, in young people with high levels of “FOMO” (fear of missing out), stress can lead to overuse of smartphones, which, in turn, can lead to symptoms of depres-

sion and anxiety as well as sleep disruption (Journal Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2021).

What is the bottom line? If you’re already stressed, turning to your phone for relief may backfire.

Get up and Hug Someone!

Hmmmmmm! Nothing is better than a warm hug from someone who you care about. It’s deceptively simple, but human touch can make people feel less lonely. Researchers found that people in the U.K. — a “low contact” society — reported less neglect in their personal relationships if they had just been touched (a light rub on the back of one hand) compared with people who hadn’t been touched (Nature Public Health Emergency Collection, 2015).

A study conducted during COVID-19 social restrictions found that those who had been deprived of intimate touch (meaning physical contact with a family member or romantic partner) reported the most anxiety and depression.

Don’t get up; get some Sleep!

My favourite. I do this just because I love some sleep. Lack of sleep, especially deep, non-rapid eye movement sleep, impairs the medial prefrontal cortex, part of the brain that is responsible for many of our self-referential thoughts and emotional processing (Nature Human Behavior, 2019).

Sleeplessness also disrupts the communication between this higher processing centre and the limbic system, a network in the brain that controls fightor-flight responses and other basic functions of survival. Stick to a regular schedule, avoid electronic devices in bed, watch your caffeine intake and get some exercise during the day.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE with anyone who has the ability to read, and for those who don’t read it to them. We have to come together and support each other.

Forecast: cloudy life, with breaks of community sunshine.

Elementary Teachers Union Opposes Ministry of Education’s plan to maintain virtual learning option for 2022-2023 school year not sat well with teachers’ unions across Ontario. The Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) showed its opposition to the continuation of remote learning in a press release on Thursday, February 17th. It states, “The announcement that the government is forcing all school boards to implement emergency remote learning for the next school year is irresponsible and makes no sense.”

ETFO would love to see an approach that is measured and thoughtful that accords with public health protocols. ETFO President Karen Brown states, “The government cannot be allowed to equate remote learning with the instruction that students receive in-person in the public education system. It is the government’s responsibility to create a safe learning environment for all students in schools, but instead of making necessary adjustments they continue to stretch education resources and put added pressure on school

PAUL JUNOR paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Another year of virtual learning… Parents, what are your thoughts about that?

The Canadian Press reported in an article by Allison Jones that for 150,000 students out of two million students in Ontario they will still have the opportunity to continue to learn virtually. This decision has RY 10TH

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boards, teachers and education workers by requiring them to provide online learning in the coming school year.”

ETFO has been consistently calling on the Ontario government to ensure that students return safely to in-person learning as it is the best option to maximize their learning and academic potential. It believes that only when the government makes systemic changes to ensure their learning conditions are safe will they be satisfied. ETFO believes that schools can provide maximal learning opportunities when there are:

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The Ontario government insisted that it has spent about $300 million towards ventilation improvements in schools across Ontario, but it has reduced education funding by approximately $500 million which clearly will not ensure that class sizes become smaller. It has no plans to do so in the future as students look forward to March break.

For ETFO remote learning was a last-ditch strategy to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, and now that school boards are trying to restore some sense of normalcy, there is no need to continue it. EFTO states explicitly, “Remote learning implemented as an emergency measure during a pandemic shouldn’t be a continued option for the future. It further exacerbates inequities that exist across Ontario as a result of poor decisions made by this government.”

NEWS

Wednesday, March 2, 2022 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 11

“Our people blame the government for everything, yet we do not reach out to each other!” Faith Greaves continues to reach for the stars MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

What is Mozia? It is a business community hub for entrepreneurs, corporate, satellites, non-profits, and community members. What do they do? They have an active food bank for over 100+ families, with their seniors at the forefront, our most vulnerable and marginalized shut-ins. They also have school programs for grades three to ten, as well as one on one and group learning in English, and math four evenings per week.

Mozia is out to make a huge difference in the community and the country in general and nothing is going to stop Faith Greaves, Founder from reaching for the stars on behalf of her fraternity.

Mozia is focused on: • Start-ups • Entrepreneurs • Satellite teams within larger organizations • Companies with flexible work-fromhome policies • Freelancers • Corporate innovation ambassadors/ teams • Fast-growing companies • Service providers, e.g., consultants, accountants, real estate and lawyers • Remote teams looking for an occasional gathering place for employees I spoke with Greaves at length about the hurdles facing this organization, her faith, and how the organization is still moving forward regardless.

“In June of 2019, I brought in 49 community people, and said let’s put this together, let’s make this work and they agreed, so from June 2019, right back to October 2019, when it was time to sign off on the lease, they all ran away and left me with the responsibility of speaking to the property manager alone.”

Even this, as bad as it was, could

not deter Greaves. She pressed on and is still in talks with the property manager whom she calls a nice person.

Greaves said she knows that there is a special attachment with her and the over 10,000 square feet of space, and she is confident that things will work out in her favour soon according to God’s plan.

Even though she has been shut out of the place, her hopes are high. “It is a space that offers growth, and I named the offices from the Bible. The first office is Debra, then you have Muriel, Gabriel, Sarah, Rebecca, the meeting room is called Messiah, Daniel then you have Enoch, Noah, Israel and so on.”

Greaves said her organization never requests IDs and personal stuff from the needy when they come in, “It is all about building relationships and trust,” she said, “They will eventually tell you who they are.”

Greaves has a bit of advice for like-minded folks in her position, “Don’t give up! Associate yourself with people who believe in you, your vision, your mission, your purpose. Not everyone that walks with you is there for you when

you are in need. They will take, and when there is no more to take, they walk.”

She told me that during her crisis she reached out to four or five wellknown Black associations in the city, and they turned their backs on her and said “No.” “One of them said to me, sell your stuff and don’t worry about it. Another said to me “put your stuff in storage and start all over again at a later date.”

Greaves expressed her dismay, “Our people blame the government for everything, yet we do not reach out to each other when we succeed, we don’t help each other. As a community, we need to support each other.”

The location in question is located at 10 Belfield Road, 2nd Floor, Etobicoke, Ontario.

For anyone reading this article and would like to help with funding this organization so it can keep helping other needy folks reach their goals and get back in this much-needed building space, here is their link where you can do so. www.gofund.me/fba77ea8

Is there a way that such a “Great City” like Toronto can actually have affordable housing?

STEVEN KASZAB steven@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

In 2016 Toronto had over 99,000 unoccupied homes. Vancouver has approximately 25,000 unoccupied houses (statistics Canada). There you go Toronto, winning a dismal statistical competition.

Toronto has always been overshadowed by “other great cities” such as New York,

Paris and London, England. Toronto’s inferiority complex cannot be included in its housing costs, however. This city’s housing costs will continue to grow and escalate its population’s fatalistic dreams of home ownership. Is there a way that such a “great city” like Toronto can actually have affordable housing? The abovementioned vacant homes can be sold, re-developed into affordable housing.

Homes owned by foreign interests make up much of these unused homes.

Well, if we allow three groups to take the lead regarding the housing portfolio there will be no real affordable housing in this city. The groups are real estate, developers, lobby, and our mu-

nicipal governments. All are tied one to the other. Our cities are dependent upon their revenue source, and there are no real estate agencies, or developers who are willing to build affordable housing, at least in Toronto.

There was a downtown Dartmouth parking lot, aged and in need of repair. What to do? It will be transformed into affordable housing by housing development. A 20+ storey building was erected with a price range varying from $1,475.00 for a one bedroom to $1,869.00 for a two bedroom. Why can’t this be done in the Southern Ontario market?

While Ontario consumers would appreciate such prices, it is not in the developer’s

or real estate agent’s interest.

There is a place for an objective, socially concerned agency to work towards the establishment of publicly designed, built, and managed housing projects. Not social housing. Those who either own or rent their properties will be required to maintain a price range that cannot be escalated. Non-profit, affordable housing and privately developed and real estate sold properties cannot mix. Affordable housing demands the expulsion of private interests. If a development in Halifax can bring about affordable housing sold according to the region’s payment capabilities, why not Toronto?

Overcoming barriers to success; Scholarships available for first-generation students pursuing College or University PAUL JUNOR paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Find Your Path 2022 Scholarships are available for students who plan to attend either college or university programs. According to the website:www.fypcanada. com, there are significant financial challenges that students from low socioeconomic status face in their pursuit of postsecondary education.

The website referenced an important article by Troy Markowitz (Forbes

Magazine, August 8th, 2017), on “The Barriers to Success and Upward Mobility for First-Generation Students and How to Fix the Problem.” The article describes the fact that students who do not have access to financial resources are at a greater disadvantage and have a lower chance of exploring post-secondary opportunities. The article states, “A staggering 17% of first-generation students attend postsecondary schools in comparison to 50 % of non-first generation students. 75.3 % of first-generation students are forced to seek out part-time employment during their first-year, in comparison to 56.4 % of non-first generation students, which adds increased stress and pressure to a full student’s already heavy workload.”

The article highlights other challenges that are faced in addition to financial obstacles. These include, “A lack of

necessary knowledge of post-secondary programs and application processes, as well as necessary equipment to properly apply themselves in their post-secondary institutions.

For example, many low-income households are unable to provide technological aids like computers and other devices, leading to what Forbes estimates as an opportunity gap of 22.96% between low-income first-generation students and high-income non-first generation students.”

The eligibility criteria of the scholarships include the following for qualified candidates: • •

Must be a graduating twelfth-grade student in a high school located in the Greater Toronto Area Must have been accepted to an ac-

• •

credited post-secondary institution ( i e. university or college) Must be the first member of the family to pursue post-secondary education Must demonstrate financial need

Qualified candidates who apply for the Find Your Path Scholarship have a chance of receiving a $500 award as well as opportunities for mentorship assistance.

Students who are interested in obtaining this scholarship can check the website: www.fypcanada. com. It is important that their applications be emailed to info@ fypcanada.com by Monday, April 4th, 2022. Reference letters can be emailed directly or be sent through the applicant.

Application information can be found at www.fypcanada.com/application

NEWS

PAGE 12

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 2, 2022

Death is occurring globally above and beyond what we would have expected to see a 10% increase over pre-pandemic,” he said. “So, 40% is just unheard of.”

What we are currently experiencing is excess mortality, a term used in epidemiology and public health that refers to the number of deaths from all causes during a crisis above and beyond what we would have expected to see under normal conditions.

However, COVID deaths are not what is driving this astonishing rise.

Deaths related to the virus are, in fact, down to half of what they were a year ago.

“What the data is showing us is that the deaths that are being reported as COVID deaths greatly understate the actual death losses among working-age people from the pandemic. It may not all be COVID on their death certificate, but deaths are up just huge, huge numbers,” he said, adding that the company has seen an “uptick” in disability claims – at first short-term, and now long-term.

The impact that the pandemic has had on all aspects of individual health is noteworthy and deserves more attention.

Indeed, excess deaths started to appear about four months after the trajectory of COVID-19 vaccines and followed a similar parabolic assent. There is also strong correlation to the second

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

“12 people have died today…”

“24 people have died today…”

Death! Death! Death!

As of late, there is not a day that has gone by that I am not hearing about someone who has died. Now, death is one of the only aspects of life that we are sure of, and yes, at least one person dies everyday, but according to the head of Indianapolis-based insurance company OneAmerica, the death rate is up a stunning 40% from pre-pandemic levels among working-age people.

“We are seeing, right now, the highest death rates we have seen in the history of this business – not just at OneAmerica,” the company’s CEO Scott Davison said during an online news conference last week. “Just to give you an idea of how bad that is, a three-sigma or a one-in-200-year catastrophe would be

dose.

In addition to people dying from the virus and vaccinations, diminished access to medical care and medication as well as mental health services contributed to the rise in non-Covid deaths.

CDC preliminary data showed that drug overdose deaths topped 100,000 for the first time ever during the one-year period ending April 2021.

There has also been a slight rise in the number of women dying due to pregnancy or childbirth each year in the United States. What is disturbing is the fact that the maternal death rate among Black women is still three times the rate for White women according to a recent federal report.

The overall number of women identified as having died of maternal causes in the United States climbed from 658 in 2018 to 754 in 2019 and 861 in 2020, according to the new National Center for Health Statistics report, released Wednesday by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“The rates for non-Hispanic Black women were significantly higher than rates for non-Hispanic White and Hispanic women,” Donna Hoyert of the CDC’s Division of Vital Statistics wrote in the new report.

There are some important points

that readers have to keep in mind about the current excess mortality figures. The reported number of deaths might not count all deaths that have occurred. In this article, we were focused on deaths in North America, but what if we took a moment to take a look at what was happening around the globe?

First of all, not all countries have the infrastructure and capacity to register and report all deaths. In many low and middle-income countries, undercounting of mortality is a serious issue.

The UN estimates that in normal times, before the pandemic, only two-thirds of countries register at least 90% of all deaths that occur, and some countries even register less than 50%.

Another aspect to consider is the fact that there are delays in death reporting that makes mortality data invalid. The extent of the delay varies from country to country.

It is sad to say that things are looking dismal for our world, and unfortunately with the pending war that is brewing, and the fallout occurring due to the pandemic, it looks like things are going to only get worse.

I guess all we can do is keep an eye out for the headlines…

Ottawa Police Service Chief Peter Sloly resigns as fallout from Freedom Convoy amidst allegations of harassment versity of Toronto- Rotman School of Management in 2007.

PAUL JUNOR

During his time with the TPS, Peter was known for his social media savvy.

Frank Trovata (Founder TNT Justice Consultants) wrote on LinkedIn, “You won’t find many street cops recommending senior officers on LinkedIn I am sure… but for Peter Sloly’s vision of police work and his use of social media as a tool to accomplish community and employee engagement and safety… I can say as a Constable working under this Deputy Chief… that this guy walks the talk. Two thumbs up onwards and upwards, positivity and leadership.”

In many ways, the Jamaicanborn Sloly who grew up in Scarborough rose to the rank of Deputy Chief in the TPS for seven years. When TPS’s Chief Bill Blair left, many within the police force thought he would have replaced him.

Instead, the top job was given to Mark Saunders. His subsequent resignation from the TPS and return to the private sector for two years eventually propelled him to be the head of the Ottawa Police Service (OPS). No one could have antici-

paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

There was much expectation and hope that newly appointed Police Chief Peter Sloly would make a significant impact in the nation’s capital when he was appointed in 2019.

Peter Sloly was a veteran police officer that served for twenty-seven years with the Toronto Police Service before he was appointed to be Deputy Chief in 2017. He acquired a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from McMaster University in 1988, a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) from Schulich School of Business at York University in 2004, and completed the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) Police Executive Leadership Program at UniRY 10TH

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pated what the impact of the Freedom Convoy, which descended upon Ottawa on January 29th, 2022, would have on the leadership of the OPS. The occupation of the truckers and disruptions and pressures that were presented in Ottawa caused many to look towards the leadership of the OPS. After three weeks of occupation, CBC News:The National reported on Tuesday, February 15th, 2022 that Chief Soly resigned under pressure from different sectors about his leadership.

Undoubtedly, Ottawa had never seen anything like this before in the history of the city and it was in uncharted territory. Chief Sloly tried to allay the fears of many residents whose lives and businesses were severely impacted.

Eventually, it was reported that Sloly’s departure came amidst allegations of divisions within the highest ranks of the force. Multiple sources told CBC News he berated, belittled, and bullied senior officers, and that at least three incident commanders tasked with dealing with the protests were reassigned after disagreements with him, and that conflicts between Sloly and the OPP and RCMP

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led to delays in reinforcements being deployed.

Diane Deans, Chair of the OPS board in response to the question, “Did Peter Sloly quit?” responded that, “I think you can appreciate that it is a labour relations issue and I am not able to comment on the specifics.” Furthermore, Matt Skof, president of the Ottawa Police Association told CBC News, “Given the magnitude of the attention that this demonstration has garnered, I think it’s inevitable that the leadership of the organization will be asked to step down.”

In a statement released to the media after his resignation, Chief Sloly writes, “Since the onset of this demonstration, I have done everything possible to keep this city safe and put an end to this unprecedented and unforeseeable crisis. We have acquired new resources and enforcement tools. I am confident the Ottawa Police Service is now better positioned to end this occupation.”

NEWS

Wednesday, March 2, 2022 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 13

“We don’t trust you anymore;” more and more people are questioning their banking institutions SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

It cannot be denied; things are going from bad to worse in the financial markets. Citizens who have put their trust in banking institutions all over the world are starting to look at them sideways. I am going to start by saying this; it’s a good idea to start finding alternatives to protect your wealth before it all starts to fall apart around us.

Our leaders won’t come to rescue us, and it is safe to say that bank bureaucrats most certainly won’t.

Conditions in the financial system are making many people lose their trust in banks, especially now that interest rate hikes threaten to unleash a credit crunch similar to what happened during the 2008 financial crisis. What we don’t realize is that the problems in the financial world go way deeper than most of us think, and that’s an

extremely alarming situation for consumers, who don’t even know what they’re truly in for.

All over the world, and particularly in the U.S., Canada, the UK, and China, thousands of bank branches have suddenly closed. According to S&P Global Market Intelligence, in 2020, 2,126 bank branches closed in the United States. That was the highest number of bank closures ever recorded until 2021 when roughly 3,000 more branches disappeared from the system without notice.

According to data released in a report conducted by the National Community Reinvestment Coalition, from March 2020 to October 2021, over 4,000 branches were shut down. Nationwide, Wells Fargo closed a net 267 branch locations in 2020, and that number escalated to 993 by the end of 2021. It suggests that banks are simply rushing to close as many branches as they can, as quickly as they can, anywhere they can.

The main problem is that the reduced number of functioning branches and available ATM machines means that many people will not be able to get cash on their hands in case an emergency hits.

People will not be able to have access to their savings or regular banking services if

an outage occurs Let’s take a look at what is happening in Canada. Days after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he would invoke emergency orders to crack down on demonstrators by freezing their bank accounts, five major Canadian banks went offline.

Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), BMO (Bank of Montreal), Scotiabank, TD Bank Canada, and the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) were all hit with unexplainable outages.

Canadian Twitter users reported they couldn’t access their funds at the ATMs. One user took a photo of an error message at one of RBC’s ATMs that read, “Tap transactions aren’t available for this card.” There were countless stories of banking customers who experienced trouble accessing their funds yesterday evening.

There’s been a lot of speculation about the outages. Some Twitter users have said “banks are faking outages” to minimize bank runs as people lose faith in the banking sector, following Trudeau’s comments earlier in the week. No bank explained the source of the outrage.

It appears that the federal government has stretched its power to direct banks to force any business conducted with Freedom Convoy protesters and affili-

ates to freeze their bank accounts. How are we supposed to trust our institutions when it seems that they are in collusion with the government?

To top it all off, new rules backed by several global economies, including the U.S. government, do not require major banks to ensure that communities will have access to cash when their last branch shuts.

In Europe, this has sparked some fierce consumer backlash over the past couple of weeks. No surprise, this news hasn’t hit the U.S. headlines just yet.

In the UK, some dissatisfied customers started to move their money from their accounts and into their crypto wallets, while others engaged in a bank run to take their money out of the system. As a result, several banks have seized people’s assets and crypto portfolios amid growing fears that bank runs would continue to occur on a ‘faster, greater scale’, according to a recent report published by MarketWatch.

The world’s population is just now realizing that the system is much more fragile than it seems, and that, in fact, their wealth is not protected in their bank accounts. How do you feel about your banking institution? Do you think that the government is right to freeze people’s accounts?

Fatal shooting of Grade 12 student draws attention to the issue of youth gun violence in Toronto PAUL JUNOR paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The tragic shooting of Grade 12 student Jaheim Robinson on Monday, February 14th at Scarborough’s David and Mary Thomson Collegiate Institute is deeply troubling.

It was around 3:00 pm there were reports of a shooting. Constable Ed Paskas reported that the eighteen-year-old student was shot and killed. The shooting was being investigated as a homicide case. It was reported that there was confirmation that the student indeed attended the school. One student states, “My main thought [at the time] was I can’t believe this is happening. It was pretty scary. I didn’t want anybody to get hurt.”

The fatal shooting of Jaheim Robinson marks the second time that a student in a Toronto District School Board (TDSB) has been killed inside a high school. It was fifteen years ago on May 23rd, 2007, that Jordan Manners; a Grade 10 student at C.W. Jefferys Collegiate Institute in North York was killed.

The shooting death of this fourteen-year-old student provoked an investigation by lawyer Julian Falconer who heads the School Community Safety Advisory Panel, which examines school safety issues. As a result of his investigation, he concluded, “There are firearms and weapons in non-trivial numbers in select TDSB schools across the city.” The report notes that there was the need for, “Strategic directions at detention, deterrence, and removal of weapons must be considered.”

There was the subsequent report by Roy MacMurchy and Alvin Curling titled “Roots of Youth Violence” which examined causes and recommended solutions.

In response to the fatal shooting of Jaheim, Toronto’s Mayor, John Tory re-

leased a statement that reads, “Any act of violence which takes place in school is both tragic and unacceptable. My thoughts are with the family and friends of the victim and students and staff at David and Mary Thomson C. I. As we await more details I want to express my profound sadness that the lives of youth in our city are being taken out at the hands of gun violence.”

Reports state that a fourteenyear-old boy was charged with first-degree murder. Homicide Inspector Hask Idsingha reported that the video he saw of the shooting showed that Jaheim was executed after the shooter accosted him and shot him at, “point-blank range.” TDSB spokesperson Shari Schwartz told Global News, “It just happened. You need a lot of time to get your head around it. There were people that are inside today that were there when it happened and so there’s just a huge support team so that they can talk and express.”

In a letter that was sent to parents on Wednesday, February 16th, 2022, Aatif Choudhry, the principal of David and Mary

Thomson C. I. wrote, “Jaheim always had a bright smile on his face, and his kindness and positive attitude was an inspiration to his teachers and classmates. If you were lucky enough to interact with Jaheim at school, you knew your day was going to be all the better because his happiness and positivity were contagious.”

At a press conference, Toronto Deputy Police Chief, Myron Demkw stated that 33% of the homicides cases in Toronto this year involved victims or accused that were under the age of twenty. He states, “Two have involved persons under the age of fifteen. This fact is disturbing and demands that something must change.”

A Gofundme was started by Chenelle Johnson to raise funds for Jaheim’s funeral and beneficiary.

It states, “I am the aunt of Jaheim, we are asking for support to lay my nephew to rest. He was a really loving young man, who cared deeply about his family and will truly be missed…. words cannot express the pain our family is going through but we appreciate any support provided.”

A call for justice heard from long ago has meaning today STEVEN KASZAB steven@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Our nation stands by like bystanders to a historic moment. The Truckers Convoy and their supporters are being rounded up by police and investigated for their part in the

protests throughout Canada.

For many of our citizens, these past few weeks have evoked confusion, fear and anger all around. Whether you’re a protester, citizen of Ottawa, or police officers carrying out the nation’s orders to bring about order, these actions will elicit future actions of protest. There is great distress, suspicion and fear seeded within our nation. A change perhaps, a call for fundamental political and social change can be heard. This call for change brought this song to mind. This song’s call for social and political justice is alive and meaningful today as it was long ago.

If I had a hammer

I’d hammer in the morning I’d hammer in the evening, all over this land.

I’d hammer out danger I’d hammer out a warning I’d hammer out love between My fellow citizens all over this land If I had a bell I’d ring it in the morning I’d ring it in the evening all over this land.

I’d ring out danger I’d ring out a warning I’d ring out love between All my neighbour’s all over this land If I had a song I’d sing it in the morning

I’d sing it in the evening all over this land.

I’d sing out about danger I’d sing out a warning my friend’s I’d sing out love between My brothers and sisters in this land I got me a hammer, and I got a bell I got a song to sing all over this land.

It’s a song of justice for all It’s a bell of freedom my friends It’s a song about love between All my brothers and sisters all over this land All Over This Land

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NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 2, 2022

Consumers need to demand less plastic packaging, always recycle, and change buying habits W. GIFFORDJONES MD DIANA GIFFORD-JONES TC HEALTH REPORTER

Why is humankind so bent on destruction?

Why so apathetic in the face of annihilating warfare, repeated massive oil spills and choking urban smog? Equally awful is the “Plastic Soup” in our oceans.

A picture of a Hawaiian beach reveals the folly of humans. It shows a huge amount of plastic washed ashore – an insult to a beautiful beach. Such ocean garbage is a serious hazard for sea life. Don’t believe the rest of us are immune to this environmental disaster. Our lives, too, depend on our oceans.

Small planktonic organisms, through photosynthesis, transform carbon in air and seawater into organic compounds, an essential element of earth’s carbon cycle.

They generate about half the atmosphere’s oxygen, as much per year as all land plants.

Plankton also provides a food source for marine animals, but these animals are also ingesting plastic particles. This poses a major problem for us all.

Microplastics carry toxic chemicals such as DDT and heavy metals. Scientists say concentrations can reach a million times higher than present in the natural environment. The worrying point is that these contaminated particles are in our food chain and who knows what new diseases will emerge.

Humankind should get its act together. Ocean plastics are concentrated in large offshore patches, extending for miles, consisting of floating and submerged debris.

Microplastics and other garbage are present in all oceans and found even at the deepest levels. It’s been called “Plastic Soup.”

It’s estimated the “Great Pacific Gar-

bage Patch” contains at least 70,000 tons of ocean plastic across an area twice the size of Texas, but don’t believe it is only the large garbage patches that are the concern. Most of the plastic material is small and distributed throughout the ocean.

The 2018 study confirmed that most waste products in the ocean were made from plastic. A major culprit is cigarettes containing plastic filters. When will humans understand this smoking madness must end?

The fishing industry is not so innocent either. As dependent as it is on preserving a healthy ocean environment, it gets a big F grade. The World Animal Protection Federation, a non-profit association, reports fishers dump an estimated 700 tons of “ghost fishing gear” into the oceans every year. Why? They do not want to spend the money for repairs.

This further pollutes the ocean. It also traps and ensnares sea life. Animals face another problem. They are eating all this garbage. For instance, in 2018 a dead sperm whale washed ashore on the Spanish coast.

A necroscopy revealed the whale’s stomach contained 64 pounds of plastic trash! This trash is part of the diet of 800 marine species!

The US-based Natural Resources Defense Council is trying to get this “Plastic Soup” from getting into the ocean in the first place.

Other organizations are monitoring the presence of microplastics so small they float in the air. Very, very small nanoparticles have been proven to pass through cell walls in fish and humans, where they can be chemically active and potentially affect endocrine function, for example.

We are late in realizing the impact of plastic waste and far too slow to act. If we want to protect our brain, lungs, kidneys, endocrine system, and other organs, it means getting active. Banning plastic bags and radically reducing plastic consumption is required. Eliminating microplastics from common products is also needed. Consumers need to demand less plastic packaging, always recycle, and change buying habits.

Let’s not make plastic soup our every meal – and our demise.

The public still remains in the dark about the Vaccine and SIDS Connection“I SEE ME” Youth Investment Competition SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

THE ROLE OF INFLAMMATORY CYTOKINES AS NEURO-MODULATORS IN THE INFANT MEDULLA HAS BEEN WELL DESCRIBED AND IS LIKELY THE REASON FOR A SIGNIFICANT NUMBER OF SIDS DEATHS OCCURRING IN CONJUNCTION WITH MILD INFECTION. 13-611V Boatmon vs HHS The Courts, FDA and independent science have all confirmed that vaccines contribute to the deaths of infants. And yet, public campaigns blame sleeping positions and co-sleeping as the primary culprits in the deaths of our most vulnerable.

This topic has always been controversial, and for that reason, I am only going

to present to you research papers and documents so that you can come to some conclusions for yourself. As a media consumer, it is your responsibility to analyse what you ingest, and think critically. One source is saying one thing; the other source is saying another. Who is right? Maybe both. Maybe neither. Regardless, you have the right to fair and balance journalism. Okay, here we go…

Medical Research Confirms Contribution of Vaccines to SIDS Deaths VACCINATIONS: PART I – MEDICAL RESEARCH ON SIDS AND EPIDEMICS

By Scheibner, Viera, Ph.D. The first researcher I am going to present to you is Viera Scheibner, a retired principal research scientist with a doctorate in natural sciences. During her distinguished career, she has published three books and 90 scientific papers in prestigious scientific journals.

Since the mid-80’s, she has done extensive research into vaccines and vaccinations.

Her first research was in the area of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). She wasn’t even studying vaccinations, but she stumbled onto a relationship between SIDS and vaccinations that led to a very deep

study into vaccination literature in medical journals. In 1983, she published her book “The Medical Assault on the Immune System.” Due to her knowledge on this topic, she often provides expert reports for court cases involving immunizations and vaccinedamaged individuals throughout the world.

In 1986, paediatric researchers studying Crib Death Syndrome or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) believed babies were dying because of an inborn fault in the breathing control centre in the brain. So they concentrated their studies on breathing. During the study they noticed that shortly after vaccinations, babies were experiencing distress. At the time, they were not critical of vaccines and they didn’t even know about the raging controversy surrounding vaccinations. At that point, the Crib Death Management Centre paediatricians stopped sending parents to get the researcher’s monitor. They didn’t want parents to know that vaccines were stressing their children.

•

The researchers asked themselves, were they the only people who stumbled over the dangers of vaccines?

• •

Did the medical profession know about all this?

Was there anything published in the medical literature?

They began to do research in medical libraries, and to their absolute astonishment, there was no end to it. There were over 30,000 pages of data published in medical journals about Crib Deaths after vaccinations. In one study, there were 41 babies who died within 21 days of their first Triple Antigen injection.

If you really want proof of this, there is evidence of the causal link between the administration of those vaccines and children’s deaths. In the so-called “Tennessee Deaths”, hundreds of babies died there, after their DPT injections. They soon established that the vaccines were killing babies, and Crib Deaths (SIDS) is 95% vaccine deaths.

And yet the public still remains in the dark about the vaccine and SIDS connection. *For article references, visit TOCaribNews.com

The ultimate career decision toolbox to help students make important career decisions PAUL JUNOR paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Skills Ontario has been making a positive difference in the lives of young people since it started in 1989. According to its linkedin.com profile, it is, “A not for profit organization dedicated to promoting careers in the skilled trades and technologies as viable, first-choice career options for young people. Our unique and innovative programs, offered in communities

throughout Ontario, provide a hands-on and fun introduction to careers in the skills trades and technologies.”

It is currently based in the Kitchener-Waterloo area but it has satellite offices in different cities of Ontario and liaison offices that are involved in outreach to diverse communities. Over the years, Skills Ontario has engaged in diverse programs, innovative initiatives in its outreach to communities, which comprises young women, Indigenous youth, new Canadians, and persons with exceptionalities. In order to propel its mission to the next level, Skills Ontario has launched a free new career exploration app for Apple and Android devices.

This app will help students explore diverse skilled trades and technology pathways. Ian Howcraft, CEO of Skills Ontario states in a press release, “We are

thrilled to announce that our app is live. Inspiring the next generation of skilled trade and technology leaders is crucial to our success as a province, and we are looking forward to providing this unique learning opportunity to Ontarians. Skilled trades and technologies play an important role in our lives and continuing to promote these fields and support the professionals working within them benefits us all.”

The app will be fully bilingual and there are features about it that make it interactive, innovative, and creative such as: • • • •

An aptitude quiz and quick links to partnered organizations Calendar of fun events Scholarship opportunities Employment opportunity updates and career pathway

The app will provide an ultimate toolbox to help students make important career decisions about pursuing opportunities in the skilled trades and technology sectors.

I interviewed Jordan Haynes to learn more about this new app.

Any youth who is interested in pursuing careers in the skilled trades and technology can download the app by typing “Skills Ontario” into an app store Social media platforms are: • • • • • •

Website: www.skillsontario.com Facebook: Skills Canada-Ontario Twitter: @skillsontario Instagram: skillsontario Youtube: Skills Ontario - Competences Ontario LinkedIn: skillsontario

NEWS

Wednesday, March 2, 2022 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 15

Brothers Who Care is giving away $10,000 to students Grades 4 -6 to invest in RESP’s “I SEE ME” Youth Investment Competition SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

One of the best ways to build wealth over time is to invest and starting at a young age can improve success down the road. In order to set Black children up for future success, helping them learn about investing can be a great step forward. The question is, what is the best way to do this in a time that is dominated by social media, and other distractions?

Quickly establishing themselves as community leaders, Brothers Who Care are collaborating with One Voice One Team, CIBC Wood Gundy Group (specifically the McDonald Group & Commerce Valley Financial Group) to educate young Black children about the power of investing and building wealth. Let me share with you a little about these groups and then speak on the impressive work that they are doing together.

Brothers Who Care (https://brotherswhocare.com) is committed to changing the social, financial and psychological health of the Black community through stories, images and engagement. This group of brothers, led

by David Griffiths, provides an opportunity for Black men in Toronto to rally together around causes that are important to families in the community. Their efforts continue to amplify the voices and the impact of leaders in our community through the use of mentoring, coaching, and sponsorships.

Their community partners One Voice One Team (https://onevoiceoneteam. org) is a non-profit organization providing youth leadership workshops, assemblies and community service programs created to empower the youth of today for a better tomorrow. Their programs help youth make the necessary decisions that move them towards success in their personal lives and allow them to have a positive impact in the lives of others.

Assisting financially with this upcoming initiative is: CIBC Wood Gundy Group, the McDonald Group, and Commerce Valley Financial Group. With over 1,000 investment advisors in more than 80 locations across the country, the CIBC Wood Gundy Group (https://www.cibc.com/en/personalbanking.html) is committed to building relationships with the community based on trust and integrity. The McDonald Group (https:// www.woodgundy.cibc.com/en/home.html) is a premier wealth advisory team that provides personalized investment portfolios, wealth strategy, and financial stewardship for private investors and institutions across Canada. Finally, the Commerce Valley Financial Group (https://commercevalleyfinancialgroup.com) helps their clients better inte-

grate their strategies for their business, with those for their wealth. This helps improve financial efficiency, while gaining clarity on where their business is headed.

At the beginning of this article, I asked the question, what is the best way to get our youth involved in wealth building during a time that is dominated by social media, and other distractions? The answer: the “I SEE ME” Youth Investment Competition for students grade 4-6. It runs March 7th, 2022, through to June 3rd, 2022. The competition is an excellent opportunity for students to learn about money and apply it to real world situations in the stock market. Students will be using the application, The Stock Market Game™ that introduces young people to saving and investing through a simulation of the stock market and bond market. Students will get to trade and manage their own virtual $100,000 investment portfolio.

“The possibilities that Canada has to offer are boundless. inspiring, empowering, exposing, and teaching our BIPOC community to capitalize on their potential is a personal mandate of mine”, said Andrew McDonald, FVice President and Portfolio Manager at CIBC Wood Gundy. “A successful life requires that you make smart decisions with your money. The earlier you start, the better your lifetime results will be. To share our vision, we have partnered with OVOT and BwC to launch the I SEE ME Youth Investment Competition.”

Participants will have an opportunity to win a total of $10,000 to invest in

RESP. There are five $1,000 prizes that will be awarded to five students, a 2nd place prize of $2,000 and finally, the grand prize of $3,000.

All winners will receive advisory services to support their brand-new investments!

“We are excited to get this competition going,” explains David Griffiths, founder of Brothers Who Care. “Financial literacy can empower youth to break cycles of poor wealth management and poverty. By sparking an interest in financial literacy, we are cultivating bright futures for our children ensuring they have financial tools to enable their success.

Strong involvement from parents and/or caregivers is a requirement for student entry in the competition. We will host weekly 1-hour sessions to teach and engage students in a fun-filled way trading money in the stock market.” Investment Competition winners will be announced the third week of June 2022 just before school breaks for the summer holidays.

“OVOT equips youth to see beyond their current circumstances and see possibilities and then act on those possibilities.

The competition will equip students to learn and make educated decisions with money,” said Orlando Bowen, Executive Director, One Voice One Team. “Students will learn about financial literacy and incorporate that knowledge in their everyday life.”

To find out more about the ‘I SEE ME” Youth Investment Competition, contact info@brotherswhocare.com

Bridging the learning gap; Ontario Ministry of Education releases details for 2022 -2023 School Year PAUL JUNOR paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The release of details by the Ontario Ministry of Education regarding the learning plans for schools in the school year 2022-2023 shows that the government is intended to return to a state of normalcy.

The Ontario Education Minister, Stephen Leece, announced the details on Thursday, February 17th, 2022. “We know this pandemic has led to significant disruption at home and abroad for students. For many students, it has left them struggling with mental

health challenges and learning loss.”

Funding for the new school year will be $26.6 billion that will see an increase of $683 million from the previous year and approximately a 2.7% rate of growth. There will be $175 million allocated to provide tutoring support, $25 million for reading intervention programs, $15 million towards summer learning programs, and an additional $10 million for mental health supports.

“There’s nothing more important to the mental, physical, and social-emotional health of a child than to be in school with their peers, with their friends, in front of our educators, but at the end of the day, we appreciate that it is a choice parents will make and students will make the best decision for themselves.”

The full details of Ontario’s Learning Recovery Plan can be seen in the technical briefing at TVO’s website: www.tvo,org.cdn. ampproject.ca. There are references to some of the actions taken by the Ministry of Edu-

cation as it deals with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The technical briefing states it, “Will build on this progress through targeted programs and funding to support the continuity of learning, student resilience, and mental well-being and continued efforts to modernize Ontario’s education system to ensure students have an important job and life skills.”

The five points in the recovery plan are: 1.

2.

3.

Measure and assess student learning levels, including in specific regions and on specific populations, and engage with partners to establish targets for learning recovery.

Strengthen numeracy and literacy skills by introducing new or expanding existing learning-focused programs and tools.

Build student resilience and mental well-being by stabilizing mental health

4.

5.

funding and consulting to develop an approach for school-based supports, in alignment with the Roadmap to Wellness, Ontario’s mental health, and addiction strategy.

Introduce comprehensive tutoring support through Ontario’s school boards that include partnerships with community organizations and the expansion of existing online tutoring programs through Mathify/Eureka.

Modernize education to better prepare students with important job and life skills, including updating curriculum and programs.

The fact that students will be able to access tutoring support not just during and after school but on weekends and during the summer will go a long way to bridge the learning gap.

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NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 2, 2022

Ending Black History Month with a bang; Reggae artist Kirk Diamond receives a park in his honour JANIECE CAMPBELL janiece@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

February annually marks an important month of celebration. Outside of the painful past, Black History Month is a cause for festivity, as it highlights the tireless work and hardearned achievements of our people. This time around is no different, as we celebrate beloved reggae singer, songwriter, activist and Juno Award recipient, Kirk Diamond.

On February 28th, a park in Brampton, Ontario, formerly known as Harry A. Shields Parkette, will be renamed Kirk Diamond Park, an honour that will go down in history as he is the first recording artist ever to receive a park in the city. This is not the first of his many “first” accomplishments, as

he also succeeded in being the first and only reggae artist to host ETALK Canada, as well as the only Canadian reggae artist to appear on BBC Radio 1Xtra, an urban music radio station broadcasted from London, England.

“When I heard the news at first, it was like yeah right! These things only happen to dead people. But now? I’ve been thinking about it a lot. I’m thinking of the magnitude of this and what it means to me. And it means a lot to not only me but the culture that I’m from. I also feel like this is even bigger for my family. They’ve worked so hard, both of my parents. This was never even a part of the dream coming to Canada. For me, it’s the ultimate honour anyone could give my family, a Jamaican immigrant family at that. I see it standing as an inspiration for people like us,” he says.

Kirk Diamond was born in Spanish Town, Jamaica, and migrated to Canada in the mid 1990s at ten years old. To maintain his connection to back home, he would watch Master T on TV and listen to Ron Nelson on the radio, anticipating new music from the island each week. Due to his parents not wanting him to get mixed up with the

wrong outside crowd, he often stayed inside during leisure times and would play oldschool cassettes and VHS tapes of onstage music shows. He knew them all by heart and would lip sync to the songs, unaware that he was practically training for his career today.

“It was the only thing that kept me grounded in Jamaican culture. Have you ever heard people say how music chose them? For me, there was nothing else I wanted to do.

There was no other option for me. Anything else would have made me miserable,” says Kirk Diamond.

Proudly identifying as Rastafarian, Kirk Diamond’s music is influenced by the philosophies of Haile Selassie and Marcus Garvey. For him, his beliefs brought out an urge to seek knowledge and information in a way to view topics from a humanity standpoint and not just the mainstream depiction of Rastas which is simplified to being proBlack or refusing to eat meat. With much of his music centered around unification and empowerment, he tends to stick to the oldschool rootsy vibe, often replicating the heavy-bass, rub-a-dub and rocksteady reggae music style.

“I started out in the dancehall. I want to say I’m more of a singjay. I sing, but I also mix in the deejay style with it just so that I can be true to myself. I try to bridge the generation before me and the generation after me through music. I try to keep it very rootsy, because I find that the music that was being made in the 70s, like Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, The Wailers… there was nothing wrong with it. These are the songs that were used to liberate countries and people and it’s kind of weird that we strayed from it.”

Aside from his origins in Jamaica and Canada, Kirk Diamond has taken his sound worldwide, having performed in several countries including England, Germany, Scotland, and Mexico. With a passion to drive international social change through his music, he has also been a part of various marches, protests, and other events in the quest for equality.

Kirk Diamond’s next album, Poetic Revolution is coming soon! Until then, you can check out his latest single “Ruler” on all streaming platforms, which speaks on our Black history from the perspective of where we were once kings and queens.

PeppaGad, DJ Stagga, and Rimas; the latest Triple Threat EUGENE PITTER eugene@carib101.com

ENTERTAINMENT REPORTER

JAMAICA -- It’s almost midnight and the only sounds one is likely to hear is the occasional barking of two mongrel dogs, or the person snoring next to you.

Mom, like a security guard, keeps pacing the wooden floor from her nearby room and that of her two boys, one only ten years old.

She had sensed victory, but the two human shaped bodies covered under the thick blanket turned out to be clothing.

Her two sons had been missing from their room for several weekends, and she had vowed to put an end to it. She wasn’t prepared to raise her boys, including Ivan, without rules; her own mother would not live with that when she was their age, so when she heard the back door open, all hell broke loose.

“Yes I got a fine beating that night, but I went out again. I couldn’t rest knowing that the party was just down the road and I was in bed. It was not only the music that got to my head. It was also the thought of getting the chance of selecting music.

Music was my navel string (umbilical cord), so you know what that meant. I just could not live without it.”

His mom migrated to the US where his father had been living, and while it was easier on his brother, who was working, he had to be a man even though he was a boy.

PeppaGad (born Ivan Bloise) found himself doing odd jobs to help with the daily expenses that came from being in school.

“We were never a part of the middle-class, who had a car parked in our yard and could pick up weekly groceries at the supermarket. Instead, there were a lot of things we wanted, but just could not afford.”

Amid the blazing reggae music that came from the sound system boxes, which were three times his height, PeppaGad was a midget among the tall lanky selectors who had a hard time outplaying him. He quickly learned good and bad music and everyone’s eyes were glued to this pre-teenage boy holding a microphone like a veteran.

“There were young and old giving me thumbs up during the closing hours of

a sound system clash, when my brother’s Mickey Squad sound system was declared the winner. When I migrated to the US, I met a cousin who was involved in music. He took me around meeting deejays, songwriters and producers.

I learnt a lot about producing music - not only by watching other producers working in their studios, but through the internet. I later built my home studio having purchased a keyboard, speaker-box and other components.”

Now, after three decades of musical journey, PeppaGad who lives in Philadelphia US, is cherishing his growing popularity. He has garnered two talented members who have become a strong backbone for his PeppaGad Squad. They are DJ Stagga, a sound selector, and dancer Remas.

“I met DJ Stagga (born Nicholas Thorpe) in 2016 and Marcus “Rimas” Castillo a year later in 2017. I was at a stage show when I saw DJ Stagga. He was not only playing my songs, but rinsing it some seven times. I went over to him, exchanged numbers and everything was sealed.” PeppaGad added.

DJ Stagga is a household name in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Atlanta, California, Washington D.C., and other US states.

Rimas was always popular even be-

fore he touched US soil. He was inspired by Bogle, one of Jamaica’s most popular solo dancers who could command the attention of both males and females at any party.

Rimas became, not only a fan of Bogle, but also the late Michael Jackson.He can be seen virtually at all the parties in Philadelphia, bracing his way to the stage to join females who have plans of giving patrons a double dose of entertainment.

PeppaGad recalls two such shows, one featuring Jamaican acts Spice a nominee for this year’s Reggae Grammy album, and D’Angel former wife of Grammy winner Beenie Man “Spice, wanting a male on stage, pointed in the crowd at this young man, but before he could reach the stage I was already there beside Spice, gyrating much to the amusement of the crowd.

It was almost the same with D’Angel. She singled out a male, who, having shielded from the action, left the room wide open for the bright dancer,” PeppaGad added.

PeppaGad has released some seven songs. These include: “Gucci,” “7 Days,” “Champion,” and “Life Goes On,” in addition to releasing an album titled “Caroline Reaper.”

Black public servants allege systemic discrimination in Canadian Federal workplaces PAUL JUNOR paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

It has been less than two years now since more than 600 Black public servants launched a class-action lawsuit alleging systemic discrimination in federal workplaces.

The Ottawa Citizen reported in an article by Joanne Laucius on March 29th, 2021, that the lawsuit was filed on December 2nd, 2020, “Originally claiming $900 million in restitution for about 30,000 Black employ-

ees past and present who have worked for the public service since 1970.” The article notes that lawyers for the plaintiffs anticipated that the restitutions be significantly advanced to $2.5 billion. The details released in the statement of claim allege there has been a “De facto practice of Black employee exclusion of the permeation of systemic discrimination through Canada’s institutional structure.”

On December 15th, 2021, the Public Service Canada Union(PSAC) released information regarding the hearing dates for the certification which will be September 21st -23rd, 2022. It can be seen at the website: psacunion.ca. It states, “Federal court judge Jocelyn Gagne rejected the government’s earlier request for a delay. This hearing is a crucial step and will determine if the class action proceedings will continue.”

PSAC is the union to which these

former and current Black federal civil servants belong to, and is “supporting this historic legal action and seeking intervener status.” Additional details about the class action lawsuit can be seen at the website: www.blackclassactionlawsuit.com. It states the lawsuit, “Is seeking long-term solutions to permanently address systemic racism and discrimination in the Public Service of Canada.”

Furthermore, the damages that they are seeking restitution for are: • • • • • •

The wrongful failure to promote Intentional infliction of mental suffering Constructive dismissal Wrongful termination Negligence Violations of employment law, human rights, and Charter breaches

The website identifies several things that current and former federal civil servants expect. They include: an external reporting system, equitable representation, a Black equity commission, amendment to the selfdeclaration of “visible minority’’, to create a separate category for Black employees, and a formal apology from the Prime Minister.

This apology would be to “Present and past Black employees of the Public Service for the injustices suffered in the past.”

On Wednesday, February 16th, 2022 a conference motion resulted in the Court ruling that the claims can move forward despite attempts by the government to delay them. On March 26th, 2022 there will be submissions by the Black Class Action Secretariat to show that the focus is on failure to hire and promote Black workers.

PAGE 18

FEATURE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, February 16, 2022 Photo Credit: Sharp Focus

MY BIBLE CULTURE Helping youth find the Kingdom within SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

“Please do not underestimate the importance of teaching your children and conditioning their subconscious with a black image of Christ. IT IS IMPORTANT!” (Re: It Is Written: The Birth of A King) DR. UMAR ABDULLAH-JOHNSON PSY.D., NCSP, M. ED. Nationally Certified Child psychologist For many, The Bible holds a significant role in how they live their lives. Christians around the world use The Bible not only as a point of reference, but also as a guide on how to live a good life.

It is claimed by many believers to be infallible, perfect, and should not be argued.

For Christians all over the world, The Bible is free from errors or mistakes, and many base their entire religious ideology around the presumption that The Bible is error free.

People who deny the presence of errors and mistakes are those with a strong ideological commitment to a belief that The Bible is infallible.

What would you say if I told you that some of the most famous stories from The Bible that we have been told are not completely accurate?

I had the opportunity to speak to two educated brothers right here in Toronto who have a strong foundation in God’s law, and who aim to elevate God’s family worldwide. Their company, My Bible Culture, is a unique, Bible-based education company that provides user-friendly and inspirational media for families who desire to see the growth and development of self-worth and positive self-image in their children and community.

It took three long years, but they have created and produced a Bible that is committed to ensuring that the images our youth consume are a true reflection of history. Their products are designed to reinforce positive self-imagery and help build biblical knowledge to strengthen the connection with the Creator.

We currently live in a society that places enormous value on power and personal gain, and not enough on the content of our character and the aftermath of our decisions. What most of us fail to understand is that the Kingdom is within us.

Andrew Davis, and Marlon McLean are the cofounders of My Bible Culture. Together, they have cultivated core values that

are found in all of their products and services.

The acronym V.E.S.T (Virtues, Education, SelfAwareness, and Transformation) represents the components necessary to master the successful development of self, and the evolution of an individual’s psychological and spiritual well-being.

Before we learn more about their powerful publications, let us take a look at what they stand for.

grouping of the biblical books into seven color-coded sections. There are illustrated pages placed before each section that feature images of major events and people. These features help the reader quickly and effortlessly navigate to the desired book. Another useful feature are comic strips, which act as a summary of popular biblical events. They assist in clarifying the story and creating interest in the scriptures.

VIRTUES: There are various traits that make up the human consciousness. Their goal is to promote and enrich their communities with a sense of justice, humility and integrity; as was taught through the message of The Christ.

The Kingdom of God is within!

“And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The Kingdom of God cometh not with observation: Neither shall they say, Lo here! Lo there! For, behold the kingdom of God is within you.”

Luke 17:20 - 21

EDUCATION: It is written that “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge” and in order to break a negative cycle, they believe that we must seek and share knowledge. Knowledge of history, health, human nature and economics all play a part in our growth. The more knowledge we attain and apply; the wiser we become!

SELF-AWARENESS: The awareness of our strengths, weaknesses, motivations and emotions play a vital role in the developmental process. It is always important to take the time for self-meditation and a focus on personal growth. Directing that focus and attention toward understanding our generational trauma and our undesired behaviours is the on-going process of being self-aware.

TRANSFORMATION: Once we are self-aware of our undesired behaviours it is time to reprogram your subconscious mind. It might mean changing our environment or sometimes even separating ourselves from the source of the problem. Placing ourselves in a position to repetitively practice our desired behaviour will help to bring about the transformation we seek. Once we can master the transformation of self in God’s righteousness, we can master our communities, our nation and then positively impact the world.

With these components as their foundation, they have authored a series of books that help adults and youth become more engaged and better understand biblical history. Their children’s book “The King is Born” is the biblical recount of Mary and Joseph’s journey to save baby Jesus from the wrath of King Herod The Great. It is a cultural story of love, perseverance, envy, and deception. The Nativity of Jesus is traditionally told as a Christmas story, but My Bible Culture provides a different take on this story.

Their most popular publication “The Illustrated Reference Bible” has received rave reviews by Black historians, and Christian leaders throughout the U.S. One of the most useful features in the Reference Bible is the

I had a chance to speak with Andrew and Marlon, and they shared with me why this initiative is so important to them.

“We were both tired of seeing and hearing our history start at slavery,” Marlon tells me. “We have an amazing history, and our young people need to know about it.

Both of these brothers were part of the R.I.S.E program and have worked with youth groups in the community. They decided that it was time to take back the narrative, and create something that was not only enjoyable, but also historically accurate.

“It took three years to prepare this book,” Andrew shares. “It is unfortunate, but too many of us rely on the institution for spirituality. We wanted people to become empowered. We have to take our stories and spirituality into our hands.”

When you get your hands on the reference Bible, you can see the care that was put into it.

“It is a high-quality book, which means MONEY! To print on Bible paper is expensive and finding that paper is difficult. We had to go overseas to do it, but when we did this, there were some quality issues. Eventually we were able to print in the U.S. We have a first edition and second edition. The second edition is an upgrade to the first edition,” Marlon shares.

Their American reception has been excellent with 98% of their sales coming from the United States.

I was curious, what was next for these biblical brothers.

“We are working on an 80-page business plan for an animated series,” Andrew adds. “It is going to be an online resource where you will be able to watch every episode, and there will even be activities after to support what has been watched.”

It is very impressive to see the work that has been put into this illustrated Bible.

You can order yours, or at least take a minute to check it out at mybibleculture.com

Our staff is familiar with the diverse traditions of the customers we serve. Let us help ensure that your unique preferences are accommodated. Talk to us today and we’ll explain all your funeral options and help you through your immediate or pre-arrangement needs.

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PAGE 20

FEATURE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 2, 2022

Photo Credit: Jim Rankin

KNIA SINGH

The Man, The Lawyer, The Legend! Part I I want you to take a moment and think about what it must feel like to be a Black person entering a courtroom anywhere in Canada to face a criminal charge. There is a very slim chance that the judge, the prosecutor, or even the defence attorney will be a person of colour. You are left there with the sinking feeling that there is no one there who can relate to your journey in life. You now stand there hoping that someone in this judicial system can, and will be sympathetic to your plight.

For a Black person entangled in the justice system, you are at the mercy of the prosecutor assigned to your case. The prosecutor gets to decide whether to dismiss your case, offer you a plea deal, or have your case proceed to a trial. Coupled with the possibility of having a judge who cannot relate to you as a person, you know you will have challenges in having a fair and impartial journey through the court system.

With issues of carding, false imprisonments and unnecessary prosecutions of Black people in Canada, the Black community needs to make it a point of having our children understand the importance of becoming judges, prosecutors, and defence attorneys. What better way to do this than to have a living, breathing example, one that radiates confidence, maturity, and tenacity.

I have only done a two part series on one other individual. A young woman named Cherie Johnson, whose story was so gripping, I knew that there was no way that I was going to be able to pay homage to her life journey in one feature. Once again, I am faced with such an incredible human being that I knew once I spoke to

him, I would have to do part one and part two.

The African Caribbean community is very proud of their legal hero, a man who refuses to shy away from injustices that occur to him, and people in his community. He has become an important voice for the African Caribbean community, and one of the most powerful political candidates to come from Scarborough. As a Black man and an activist, he knows and understands that members of the African Caribbean community are over-represented in the criminal justice system.

“The Number of times I have been stopped for no reason, I actually start to get aggravated with it and I’ll say to the police, ‘Excuse me officer, why are you stopping me?’ I know there is no reason and I didn’t make a wrong turn, I didn’t speed, I didn’t do anything.”

Knia Singh (Maat Legal Services) Knia Singh recognizes the great divide between the haves, and the havenots. Not only does he recognize the divide, he has experienced what it feels like to be on both sides of that divide because of his work in social justice. It is the have nots that do not feel like their voices are heard, like they are not represented in society.

They don’t connect with their elected officials, but thankfully, Knia believes that because of what he has gone through, he is able to bridge the gap and engage the community in a purposeful way.

As we move through Knia’s journey, we will document the times that he ran for office, and why he felt passionately about doing so at different times in his life. What really allows

Knia to connect with his community is his ability to speak their language; speak directly to what they are feeling.

“We definitely know people pick up guns because of low socio-economic conditioning and lack of education.

I think preventative measures are much more important and needed at this time than just asking for more police. More police will arrest more people but it’s never going to stop the root of gun violence.”

Knia estimates that he has been stopped by the Toronto Police about thirty times, and even though he might get upset because they are infringing upon his right to exist in society, he is not rude. He shows respect for police because he understands the difficulty of their job, and the fact that everyday they put their lives on the line. He does not respect anyone, regardless of their position, if they infringe on the rights of an innocent person, especially African Caribbean males in Toronto who experience this type of treatment.

This is why in 2015; Knia presented a constitutional challenge to the practice of carding by Toronto police. He also did a freedom of information request to the Toronto Police Service and obtained fifty pages of personal data recorded by police, most of it during traffic stops where officers filled out contact cards – formerly called 208’s – with his personal information, or entered the data directly in an in-car computer database as a Field Information Report. The information that was documented about him was incorrect, and this makes you think, how many of our young Black men is

this happening too?

Rooted and grounded in his community, Knia has spent years working with youth and young adults, some that do happen to have records.

He doesn’t judge them, and it is the reason that so many people turn to him during difficult times. Knia believes everyone is capable of doing well if given the opportunity and the right support. He has for a long time advocated for the fair treatment of all Torontonians regardless of race or socio-economic background.

“For me it’s been all about having a responsible government. It has always been about bridging the gap between the average person and people in power.”

There has been a lot said about the man we know as Knia Singh, but how many of us really know his story. In part two of this Classic Man series, Knia and I speak of family, life, music, law, struggles, challenges, pain and loss. There are parts of his story that have never been told before.

Stay tuned for Part II of Knia Singh; The Man, The Lawyer, The Legend!

Photo Credit: Sanj P Photography

Written by Simone J. Smith Toronto Caribbean News

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

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Store Hours

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Store Hours

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

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Store Hours

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FEATURE

Wednesday, March 2, 2022 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

Planning your wedding during your pregnancy Your wedding is well into the planning stages when—surprise!—you find out that you’re expecting a new family member.

Don’t panic! Follow these tips to stay ahead of the curve and celebrate your wedding with your mind at ease.

The planning No matter how far along you are in your pregnancy, find someone to help you with your wedding plans. Call on professionals to take some of the load off, because you risk burning yourself out if you don’t. You need to stay calm and get plenty of rest, so delegate as many tasks as you can. The health of you and your future bundle of joy should always be the priority.

Your dress Finding a dress that can adapt to your

changing silhouette is not an impossible task. Go to a bridal boutique and ask for a specialist’s advice. There are many bridal gowns specifically designed for pregnant women that will complement your fantastic curves while guaranteeing your comfort throughout the day. Make sure your seamstress is available for last-minute touch-ups—they could be major!

The food First, inform your caterer that you are pregnant. Have them prepare non-alcoholic beverages (no champagne for Mommy) and foods that you will be able to enjoy without putting your baby’s health at risk.

Your caterer will certainly accommodate you with tasty treats for you and your guests.

PAGE 25

Setting your wedding date: four things to consider Are you and your partner about to take the leap into marital bliss? Here are four things to look into before you send out your save the dates.

1. The season First, decide during what time of year you want to get married. Every season has its own charm, but know that the high season for weddings is over the summer. If you’re dealing with a small budget, consider an off-season ceremony to get the most bang for your buck. Winter weddings can be absolutely stunning.

2. The day of the week If you feel like getting married on a Monday, there’s nothing stopping you from doing just that! However, the traditional Saturday wedding is a convenient option if most of your guests work Monday to Friday. Getting married on a Saturday is more expensive than on a Friday or a Sunday

though, and you’ll need to reserve early to ensure that your dream venue is available.

3. The schedules Open up your planner and carefully study your own schedule, and then ask your close friends and family about their own plans for the foreseeable future. Remember to consider time off work, vacations and holidays, various appointments and other significant events (birthdays, baptisms, other weddings, etc.) that are already planned among those in your circle to avoid any major scheduling conflicts.

4. The professionals Before you send out your invitations, make sure that the pros you want to hire are available on the chosen date. If you have your heart set on a certain photographer or caterer, secure their services as soon as possible so you don’t get left high and dry.

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Live in love-caribbean news.pdf 1 2022-02-11 3:09:56 PM

Markham Rd

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How do I blend carrier and essential oils?

For 8oz of carrier oil, you can use between 5 - 8 drops of essential oil.

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Wednesday, March 2, 2022 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

HEALTH

PAGE 27 Photo Credit: gorskon.tumblr.com

Why wouldn’t you take care of your heart?

W. GIFFORDJONES MD DIANA GIFFORD-JONES COMMON SENSE HEALTH

Diana Gifford-Jones: “You are starting your 99th year. To what do you attribute your good health?”

W. Gifford-Jones, MD: “I’ve been fortunate, but it nearly didn’t happen. I suffered a major heart attack when I was 74. My cardiologists insisted on cholesterol-lowering drugs to fight heart disease. But I knew of two-time Nobel Prize winner Dr. Linus Pauling’s research on high-dose vitamin C. I opted for a regimen of 10,000 mg daily, which I still continue.”

Diana: “Why not take cholesterol-lowering drugs?”

Giff: “There are side effects I preferred to avoid. Everyone needs to make their own decisions with their doctors, but

mine was anchored in the belief Dr. Pauling was right. He knew that animals produce vitamin C and humans do not. This is why sailors used to die of scurvy while the ship’s cat survived long voyages. Vitamin C is necessary for the formation of collagen, which holds coronary cells together just as mortar binds bricks. The addition of lysine, an amino acid, provides extra strength to collagen, like steel in concrete.”

Diana: “This means vitamin C and lysine help strengthen arteries so that they are rubbery and don’t rupture from the pressure of each beat of the heart?”

Giff: “Yes. Another concern is atherosclerosis or hardening and narrowing of the arteries. This causes a decrease in blood supply to the heart. The research of Dr. Sydney Bush, a distinguished English optometrist, showed it is possible to improve circulation to the heart’s muscle. He prescribed 6,000 milligrams (mg) of vitamin C to patients who experienced reaction to contact lenses.

Luckily, he also took photographs of the retina before the use of vitamin C

and repeated the photographs one year later. Atherosclerosis decreased and retinal arteries were healthier. In the same way, vitamin C decreases the amount of atherosclerosis in coronary vessels and supplies more blood to the heart’s muscle.”

cessed food. Sugar and salt are not your friends, and they are hidden in a lot of foods. They lead to weight gain, hypertension, and other inflammatory conditions that harm cardiovascular performance.”

Diana: “10,000 mg every day of the year for 24 years is 87.6 million mg – that’s a lot of vitamin C! Can you take too much?”

Giff: “A very small amount of vitamin C, just 10 mg a day, is enough to cure scurvy. More is needed for a robust immune system. To decrease chronic inflammation and reverse heart disease, research shows you need high doses consistently over a long period of time.

Vitamin C is natural, safe, and effective.

Anything the body can’t absorb gets excreted in the urine.”

Diana: “If you could redo one thing since your heart attack, what would it be?”

Giff: “I would have started supplementing earlier with omega-3. The amount of key omega-3 essential fatty acids in the blood is a strong indictor of risk for heart disease. Most of us are lacking omega-3 because of low dietary intake of fish and poor fat absorption of the fish we do eat. The problem compounds as we age. I’ve recommended supplementation with omega-3 supplements containing Maxsimil to overcome the absorption problem.”

Diana: “What else would you advise for heart health?”

Giff: “There’s no doubt that a balanced diet and moderate exercise is crucial.

Our diets are changing. People are eating less fresh food and more pro-

Diana: “I am lucky to have had nearly a quarter century of additional highquality years with you.”

Giff: “I would ask anyone in similar circumstances, why wouldn’t you want to take care of your heart?”

?

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Wednesday, March 2, 2022 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

HEALTH

PAGE 29

Secrets about certain supplements and incorporating them in your fitness journey RACHEL MARY RILEY rachel@carib101.com

HEALTH & FITNESS

The use of supplements is widespread in the general popular nutrition and fitness industry, particularly among athletes and those that workout on a regular basis. It is of key importance that athletes do research on what supplements to invest in, so that we can maintain a healthy lifestyle and reach our goals. The multibillion industries of supplements, has many pros and cons. Taking supplements either way can be beneficial.

Personal pros and cons on taking supplements A few years back, before I became a certi-

fied personal trainer, I was introduced to Herbalife from a few Herbalife distributors.

While working at the gym during the anniversary event, the distributors gave me a few of their products to try. Immediately, I had a liking for these products.

After a while, I came off the products, lost my way on my fitness journey, and gained the weight back. It was a constant battle, I was trying to figure why I lost weight and put it back on so quickly, which I knew was a cycle that needed to break.

Out of humility, I decided to reconnect with the distributors that originally helped me lose weight to continue my fitness journey.

Eventually, I started my business as a fit-entrepreneur while becoming a Herbalife distributor. I saw that it affected my body; I was constantly getting bloated.

Recently, a colonic specialist told me that soy and whey is not good for you. A natural plant supplement helped me achieve the recent, massive results that I needed. Overall, I have learned through this experience that some people’s bodies are different and can easily adapt to products like Herbalife

and whey or soy without side effects. Do what is best for you so that you can maintain a healthy lifestyle.

What is soy and whey?

According to Medical News Today, soy is a popular legume of Asian origin. People who follow vegetarian diets often use soy to replace meat for other health purposes.

Soybeans are healthful and rich in protein, giving them numerous nutritional uses.

People can eat them, drink them in milk alternatives and take them in the form of supplements. Manufacturers may also extract the oil from soy and use it to make ecological friendly fuel, as well as candles, crayons and engine lubricants (2019).

However, if you suffer from bloating and other risk factors to your health, I personally would not recommend soy. Therefore, investigate if your supplement has soy.

Trusted resources state that people commonly use whey as a supplement alongside resistance exercises to help improve muscle synthesis and promote the growth of lean muscle. Milk is made of two proteins, casein and whey. Whey protein

can be separated from the casein milk or formed as a by-product of cheese making.

Protein Have you ever wondered why there are so many bodybuilders? Some people take steroids not realizing it is in their supplement. Protein has amici which builds skeleton muscle, other structures and various compounds in the body. Certain proteins can help build muscle mass, sustain weight and even gain weight if not taken in proper measures daily.

Whey protein is considered a complete protein as it contains all nine essential amino acids. It is low in lactose content.

Whey protein is a mixture of beta-lactoglobulin, alpha lactalbumin, bovine serum albumin and immunoglobulins. Of course, it helps with drastic weight loss. From a nutritional point of view, whey protein is very unusual and does not have a natural equivalent (2019). The most important thing is, do what is best for you according to how you feel after taking a supplement that uses whey.

PAGE 30

LIFE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 2, 2022

Dreaming big and avoiding low expectations in life made.

DANIEL COLE

daniel@carib101.com

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

On May 6th, 1954, Sir Roger Bannister did the impossible. The Daily Telegraph, at the time, had described the sub-four-minute mile as “sport’s greatest goal”, something “as elusive and seemingly unattainable as Everest” (another apparently impossible human achievement that had recently been chalked off by Sir Edmund Hilary and Tenzing Norgay). Indeed, Bannister had been told by physiologists that not only was running the four-minute mile impossible for an athlete to do, but attempting to do so was dangerous to one’s health. Roger Bannister ran the four-minute mile in 3:59:04, and history was

As is so often the case with world records, once Bannister proved a human could in fact run a mile under four minutes, it left the world stunned, and helped shatter a collective mental barrier. Bannister had changed the expectation of possibilities through the achievement of his high goal.

He had helped shift the entire paradigm through which other runners viewed the world and in turn helped redefine what the human body could achieve. After Roger Bannister set the record, the “four-minute barrier” has since been broken by over 1,400 athletes and is now the standard of professional middle distance runners in several cultures.

One of the famous quotes of Michelangelo was, “The greater danger for most of us lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short, but in setting our aim too low, and achieving our mark.” We are often discouraged from setting big dreams and goals because we are so fixated on the “How” from the onset; this is a wrong place to start. Your responsibility is to put your

dreams out there, to be clear about what exactly you want, even if you aren’t clear or sure how that it will become a reality. Once you are clear about the “What” and you’ve done what you can do toward its realization, be patient; when the time is right, it will materialize.

Don’t undertake a plan unless it is distinctly important and nearly impossible.

Undertake something that is difficult; it will do you good. Unless you try to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow. He who is afraid in doing too much always does too little. To achieve all that is possible, we must attempt the impossible. Your vision must be bigger than you. Learn to be comfortable with great dreams.

The best jobs haven’t been found.

The best work hasn’t been done. Unless you take on more than you can possibly do, you will never do all that you can. Don’t listen to those who say, “It’s not done that way.”

Don’t listen to those who say, “You are taking too big a chance.” Develop an infinite

capacity to ignore what others say can’t be done. If Michelangelo had painted the floor instead of the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, it would surely be rubbed out by now. Always aim high, going after things that will always make a difference, rather than seeking the safe path of mediocrity.

Don’t bother with small plans, because they motivate no one (especially you)!

The person who expects nothing will never be disappointed. The most disappointed people in the world are those who get just what is coming to them and no more. There are a lot of ways to become a failure, but never taking a chance is the most successful.

There are certain dreams that may take years, and some may take weeks before coming to fruition; if the resources to actualize your goal is not within your reach, then you have little or no control about the timing it will manifest, the farmer has no control about the rain and sunshine, all he can do is to plant the seed, and hope nature will do its work to bring the harvest, the same applies to our dreams and goals.

LIFE

Wednesday, March 2, 2022 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

Eczema: 5 tips for managing symptoms Atopic dermatitis, better known as eczema, is a chronic condition that causes the skin to become inflamed. It often manifests on the body as patches of dry, itchy skin that are red or brown. The itching may become more intense at night and, in some cases, raised bumps that leak fluid will develop. Cracked, scaly skin that becomes raw and sensitive from scrat­ching may also be an issue.

Here are some tips for mitigating the discomfort associated with eczema.

Relax While there’s no concrete evidence of a link between stress and the severity of eczema symptoms, many patients report that their symptoms are worse when they’re worried or under pressure.

Regardless of whether stress causes eczema to flare up, it’s likely that relaxation techniques and activities such as yoga can distract people from the itching and reduce the perceived severity of their symptoms.

You can also try massage therapy, reading a book or listening to music to de-stress.

Stay hydrated Whether they’re mild or severe, a good moisturizing cream is a must for managing eczema flare-ups. For best results, apply a liberal amount of moisturizer after taking a lukewarm bath or shower. Avoid hot water, as it dries the skin and will likely make your symptoms worse.

In addition, drink plenty of water and avoid consuming dehydrating foods and drinks such as deli meats, candy and alcohol.

Try creams A variety of medicated creams, some of which can be purchased without a prescription, can help manage flare-ups. Make sure to choose a pro­duct endorsed by dermatologists, and avoid greasy creams as

well as those containing perfumes, parabens and dyes.

Choose the right clothes When your skin is irritated and inflamed, it’s best to avoid synthetic fabrics and tight-fitting clothes. Privilege loose apparel made of natural textiles such as cotton, bamboo and silk. These are less likely to aggravate your skin.

Manage humidity levels Dry air can worsen eczema symptoms. Use a hygrometer to monitor the humidity levels at home and at work. Ideally, you should maintain a humidity level that’s between 40 and 60 per cent. If necessary, you can use a humidifier to remedy dry air.

Learn your triggers Eczema flare-ups can be triggered by a wide range of things including soaps, dust, cigarette smoke, cleaning products and certain foods. Try to identify the things that trigger your eczema and, if possible, eliminate them. This will result in fewer flareups.

Health benefits of rapini Also known as broccoli rabe, the stalks and leaves of this cruciferous vegetable can replace broccoli in almost any recipe and be eaten either raw or cooked. Its slightly bitter taste is sure to add interest to your salads, stir fries and pastas.

Aside from its culinary uses, rapini offers a range of health benefits. Rich in vitamins A, C and K, it also packs a high concentration of calcium, iron and potassium. Together, these nutrients help maintain healthy bones, regulate blood pressure and boost the immune system.

4 reasons to swap your tampons for a menstrual cup While menstrual cups are increasingly popular, many women hesitate to make the switch. Here are four arguments that may convince you.

1. THEY’RE AFFORDABLE Purchasing a menstrual cup means you won’t need to allocate part of your monthly budget to pads and tampons. A single menstrual cup costs around $30 and can last for as long as 10 years before it needs to be replaced.

Don’t scratch While it’s easier said than done, refraining from scratching is an important component of managing atopic dermatitis. Despite the temporary re­lief it provides, scratching damages your skin and makes you even itchier.

2. THEY’RE ECO FRIENDLY Disposable pads and tampons generate considerable waste. Reusable ones use up a lot of water and soap. By contrast, menstrual cups are an effective way to reduce your carbon footprint.

If you absolutely need to relieve the itching, try to pinch or lightly rub the affected area. It’s also a good idea to wear cotton gloves to bed, as un­ conscious nighttime scratching is a common cause of skin damage. Finally, you should cut your nails very short to minimize the risk of injuring your skin.

3. THEY’RE COMFORTABLE When inserted according to the manufacturer’s instructions, it’s easy to forget you’re wearing a menstrual cup. Plus, cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, meaning you can sleep through the night without ever worrying about leaks or having to get up and change your tampon or pad.

Eczema is a common and poten­ tially debilitating skin condition.

Following these tips, and seeking the help of a health care professional, will likely make it a little easier to manage.

PAGE 31

4. THEY’RE EASY TO MAINTAIN Most cups are made of either silicone or latex and require minimal maintenance. Simply wash yours with mild soap and water whenever you empty it. After your period, sterilize the cup by boiling it in water for a few minutes.

Additionally, menstrual cups are hypoallergenic and a less abrasive type of product than disposable tampons and pads. But regardless of what product you choose, to prevent infections, make sure to always wash your hands before and after you use it.

Lingzhi mushroom: is it right for you?

A staple of oriental medicine, lingzhi mush­ rooms are often sold as supplements. The fungus, also known as reishi, is thought to provide a host of health benefits.

There is evidence to suggest that lingzhi mushrooms can indeed bolster the immune system, reduce inflammation and help treat urinary tract infections. However, evidence for these claims is thin, and until more studies are conducted, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional to find out if lingzhi supplements are right for you.

In addition, some proponents hold that reishi may help treat cancer, for which there’s no strong evidence.

A few studies suggest it may be a helpful complement to a more standard treatment, but it can’t replace it.

PAGE 32

LIFE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 2, 2022

What was my lawyer going to say to me?

What if he was here to deliver bad news?

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

HUMAN SPECIALIST

The water was warm. I let it run down my back, washing the rest of Panama off me. It was the first warm shower I had in weeks, and although it was in a correctional facility, it felt great.

As the water flowed over my body, I began to think about my upcoming meeting with my lawyer. His name was Mark, and from what my mom had told me, he was one of the best criminal lawyers in Buffalo New York. He must have been good because he had processed my extradition much faster than expected. Even though I had not met him yet, I had a good feeling about him.

Finally, I was going to have some answers

to the many questions I had about my arrest.

I had read over the paperwork that I had received over and over again, but there was certain lingo I didn’t understand, also most of the paperwork I had was in Spanish.

“Five minutes.” The guard startled me out of my thoughts, and I quickly shut off the water. I towelled off, and creamed my skin with the products that had been provided to me. I put my hair up, and creamed my face. I wanted my first impression to be a good one, regardless of the fact that I was in an orange jumpsuit with handcuffs on.

The guard led me back to my cell; waiting for me was a silver tray with what looked like scrambled eggs, something meat like, a piece of toast, and a cup of coffee with sugar and powdered cream on the side. I placed my towel on the corner of my cot, and sat down to eat my breakfast. The romance book that I had been reading was opened on the side of the bed, so I figured I would en-

Bedtime routine: a crucial element in your child’s development Sleep hygiene plays a vital role in the health and overall development of children. Kids need enough rest to be able to engage in physical activity, communicate effectively, and learn new concepts. But what can you do as a parent to help your kids get a good night’s sleep? The answer lies in establishing a routine.

Children who take part in a regular bedtime routine have a much easier time falling asleep and are better equipped to fight various sleep disorders. This means kids experience fewer nightmares and have an easier time sleeping through the night. Immersing your kids in an environment that’s conducive to sleep for an hour before bedtime offers several advantages.

Where to start?

First of all, children should always head to bed at the same time each night. Determine the right bedtime for your kids according to their needs and wake-up time, and stick to it.

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, school-age children (six to 12) need an average of nine to 12 hours of sleep per night. Preschoolers (three to five years old) should sleep 10 to 13 hours a day. The Canadian Paediatric Society has similar recommendations when it comes to how much sleep children need.

Sixty minutes before bed An hour before your little ones’ bedtime, take some time to create a relaxing environment by dimming the lights (exposure to bright lights slows the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone). Turn off the TV and put away tablets, computers and cellphones for the night. Screen time before bed stimulates brain activity and makes it harder to fall asleep.

From here on out, all activities need to be calming. Ask your children not to run and jump. Encourage them to read, draw, do a puzzle or play cards with each other.

Thirty minutes before bed Your kids’ bedtime routine should start about 30 minutes before it’s time to sleep. During that half hour, activities might include: • Putting away toys • Bathing • Tooth brushing • Preparing their clothes for the next day • Story time • Listening to music quietly You choose the routine; the important thing is that you stick to it.

tertain myself during breakfast.

“Yuck!” I do not know how people were able to live off the food that was served in jail. “Don’t they know anything about seasoning,” I said to myself.

“No they don’t,” someone answered beside me.

“I see that,” I replied chuckling. I didn’t realize that anyone was listening to me.

“Your new here,” the voice said.

“What are you in for?”

“To be honest,” I replied. “I am going to find out soon. I am meeting my lawyer today, so I am hoping to get some answers.”

There was silence after that. I went back to my breakfast. When I was done, I put my tray down on the floor in front of the cell closest to the door. I sat back on the bed and closed my eyes, waiting for the guard to come back to get me.

It was about five minutes later that I heard footsteps coming down the hall. When they stopped in front of my

cell, I opened my eyes. “Time to go Ms. Smith.” The guard was standing there with cuffs in his hands. I got up and walked towards him as he opened the gate. I stretched out my hands and he put the cuffs on loosely. He closed the gate to my cell and led me back the way that I had come in the night before.

It looked different in the daylight. It looked exactly like the jails that you see in television shows, grey, dull, and lifeless. The hall that I was walking in seemed to go on forever. All I could hear was the sound of the guards' shoes. Finally, we got to the end of the hall, and went through the door. There sat another guard surrounded by paper work.

“Is Ms. Smith’s lawyer here yet?”

“Yes!” The guard who was manning the desk said. “He is waiting inside for her.”

All of a sudden, I was nervous.

What was my lawyer going to say to me?

What if he was here to deliver bad news?

I said a quick prayer to myself as the guard led me to the room where my lawyer was patiently waiting for me.

LIFE

Wednesday, March 2, 2022 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 33

Let it grow, let it grow, let it grow! Starting your Cannabis growing season!

SEAN SEURATTAN sean@carib101.com

THE HEIGHTENED CHEF

The end of winter signals spring and the beginning of another growing season!

Every Ontarian nineteen years and older is able to grow up to four cannabis plants per household (not per person). If growing outdoors, the beginning of this process determines your course for the rest of the year. It’s important to make the right decisions early to ensure a smooth and predictable outcome. Based on the Canadian climate, you’ll want to start your grow in early spring by obtaining seeds or clones.

Clones are seedlings clipped from living plants and by far the easiest method to start with because a large amount of the initial work has been done.

This allows for a grower to start later in the season than one using seeds, but availability and choice can be limited. Seeds generally allow for much more control but require more time and knowledge. Seeds come in three varieties: regular, feminized and auto flower. Here we will discuss the pros and cons to each as well as how to begin growing them.

Important to note, Canadians of age are legally allowed to SHARE cannabis

with one another. This is widely obscured by the retail industry to ensure their profits. If you know someone who is growing cannabis, the best option is to inquire if they have seeds or clones they are willing to share. You are allowed to share up to thirty seeds when outside your home.

More than likely, they will also have previous experience with the strain and cultivar you will be receiving.

This can be extremely helpful as different strains can have different requirements or proclivities. Some may want more or less light, water and nutrients.

Knowing this will greatly improve both the quality and yield of your crop. As a last resort, you may have to purchase seeds.

Currently, the Ontario Cannabis Store website is the only place in Ontario where you can «legally» buy seeds. They come in packs of 4-10 and can range in cost from $25-$75. Clones are not available on the OCS website.

Regular seeds are the standard type of seed and are produced by pollinating a female plant with a male plant. This means there is a 50% chance that the plant will grow into a male plant. This is not desirable since only the female plants produce the all important cannabis buds.

Male plants must be removed upon detection in order to avoid female pollination. Once a female plant is pollinated, it stops producing buds and begins to produce seeds. Even just one male plant can pollinate many females. Sex can usually be determined by the fourth week of growth. Regular seeds do allow the benefit of being able to cross breed and poten-

tially create new strains through selective breeding. If purchasing, regular seeds are the least expensive. Experienced growers and those who want to experiment best regular seeds.

Feminized seeds are ones that have been bred to produce only female plants. Ideal for new growers, this eliminates the need to identify male plants thereby protecting your crop from pollination. Forcing the female plant to create pollen produces feminized seeds and self-pollinates. This is done by stressing the plant into panic mode through exposure to intense heat or light, under watering or the introduction of certain nutrients. Due to the fact there is only one set of genes present, all offspring will be female. Downside to this is that any plant grown from feminized seeds cannot be used for breeding purposes. Also if purchasing, these seeds are more expensive than regular seeds.

Auto flower seeds are named for an important attribute they possess. All plants begin in a vegetative state to grow and transition into a flowering state to produce buds. For the other types of seeds, this process begins when light cycles change and begin to shorten. For normal plants, this can take anywhere from 8-12 weeks from germination.

Auto flower seeds have been bred to automatically flower in ten weeks no matter the light conditions needed to trigger the change that other seeds require. They normally produce smaller plants with a total lifecycle of about three months making them ideal for indoor

growth. This allows for multiple harvests per year as opposed to the annual lifecycle of regular and feminized seeds. The downsides to these are that they often produce less potent and smaller yields.

Auto flower seeds are the most expensive type of seed but best for the beginner or those in a hurry.

Once you’ve obtained your seeds, it’s time to germinate or «pop» them! Depending on what type you have, you’ll want to start germinating mid April inside and move them outdoors by mid May based on weather conditions. Germination is the process of a seed sprouting roots prompted by a combination of water, heat and air.

The simplest method is to place your seeds 2-3cm apart in a paper towel soaked in distilled water. Place this into a sealed sandwich bag and leave it somewhere warm and dark. Check everyday for the development of taproots, keeping it moist when necessary. Roots should develop within 2-3 days but may take up to a week. Any longer than that means your seeds may be duds. Move the sprouted seeds into your growing medium (soil or peat) and allow them to water drainage and up to eighteen hours of light. Each seed should have its own container. Over the course of 2-3 weeks, it will grow vertically and begin to show small leaves. This means it is almost time to move them outdoors into a larger container or directly into the ground.

Stay tuned for more tips on the next stages of growing as the season progresses. Happy Growing!

Four ways to be prepared, learned and imaginative in your response to potential threats STEVEN KASZAB steven@carib101.com

INSIGHT TO SOCIETY

The largest and most wealthy nations on this planet are making their moves toward ultimate regional power. Russia will likely absorb or put a strangle hold upon Ukraine and other smaller nations not allied to NATO. China has its eyes upon Taiwan and other regions of Asia.

Did you know that both Russia and China have laid claim to most regions of their respective orbit of power? Well let’s wait and see how the super powers work it out shall we.

Most of the free world have been in peril for some time, and are now even more in danger of unsolicited attacks by China and Russia’s proxy agencies.

In Canada we should take many things into account to keep families, our neighbours and ourselves safe and able to carry on our daily lives.

Russia and China have the capability to attack us indirectly, as they have done for years. Our public authorities know who is attacking us, but have done little in response or at least they have not been transparent with how

and what they have done to protect Canadian society.

Cyber-attacks can and will come as a response to North America’s penalizing economic sanctions. Russia will not attack us so long as NATO behaves itself, and stays behind its line of no return.

Russia will show the nations of NATO who is boss here. America has taken the lead on the least effective way to stop Russian aggression in Europe. Harsh words and stopping all apparent economic deals with Russia is supposed to harm the aggressor, but as we have seen with sanctions against Iran, Iraq and North Korea, sanctions do not stop these predatory nations, they embolden them to find another way. Money will get them what they want, and Russia (with its oil and gas) and China (the wealthiest nation on earth) have money to spare. Russia’s banking partner has become China, its predatorial neighbour.

How can you protect yourself while the powers throw the global dice about?

1. Cyber-attacks: they can bring our electrical grids down, but our public authorities do not know for how long.

Hours-days-weeks? Electricity is essential to us all, especially those who live in America’s northern regions. If they strike our power grids, how can we gas up our vehicles, heat our homes, keep our food fresh?

• • •

• • • •

Keep some jugs of gas in stock.

When your vehicle is half full refill.

Never leave a vehicle below the halfway mark.

If you have a BBQ, keep enough energy sources for cooking. Homes can also be heated using this energy too.

Purchase canned food and medication products. Keeping a good supply for a rainy day.

If you can purchase a generator that can be a sole source for your home.

Have a safety and relocation plan should your power stop over time.

Make a list of all available services provided to you in the community.

Find out from them if they have a plan should this happen.

2. Your Money: • Find out from your bank and investment sources if your funds are protected, and how they are protected.

If an attack harms your portfolio is there a guarantee protecting your accounts?

• Keep a safe (not electrical) with sufficient funds for your economic survival.

• If you own a business you need to have funds for a rainy day (pandemic lesson).

• Invest locally, in your province and nation, continent. Local economies will be more secure than Pan Asian in the long run.

•

•

Home needs to be designed and maintained to offer greater protection to your family. Better insulation will keep the heat in and the cold outside.

Stop spending on unnecessary things. Our economy has placed materialism above self-sufficiency and realistic needs. All your stuff will not warm you. Think before you buy.

3. If you need to, find a safe place to relocate, perhaps a cottage where firewood can be used to heat the home and cook your food. Use your imagination. Ask yourselves what could happen and how can you not only survive but also prosper in the long run.

4. Reboot your phones and electrical devices weekly. The National Security Agency recently released a «best practices» guide for mobile security. The latest malicious software typically targets your phone’s root file system. But the newest phones can detect and block such malware during a reboot.

We live in a time like no other.

There are similarities to past events, but those who care little for us have perfected the means of terror, warfare and unbridled greed. The best defence is a good offense.

Be prepared, learned and imaginative in your response to potential threats.

PAGE 34

LIFE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 2, 2022

How to make your smartphone last longer

Eco-friendly ways to keep warm in winter Depending on where you live, you may have no choice but to turn on your home’s heating system to stay warm in winter. But did you know there are seve­ ral ways you can minimize your impact on the environment without limiting your comfort? Here are some things you can do.

Have you recently purchased a new smart­ phone? If you want to protect your invest­ ment and the planet, here are a few tips to help you extend the lifespan of your new gadget.

• Put it in a sturdy case. There are many different types of protective cases avai­ lable on the market. If you have a ten­ dancy to drop your phone, a shockabsorbing case is your best bet. However, you should avoid the types of phone cases made for construction workers as they tend to be heavy.

• Use a screen protector. If you want to protect your phone screen from dirt, dust and scratches, a plastic or glass screen protector is the way to go. You can find a variety of models at a range of price points.

• Choose your apps carefully. Some apps draw more power than others. Therefore,

you should download the light versions of the ones you can’t live without, and stop using free apps, as they continually load ads.

• Avoid extreme temperatures. Severe heat and cold can damage your smart­ phone battery. Therefore, it’s best to avoid storing your device in your car if the outside temperature is extremely high or low.

• Recharge it at the right time. You should never let your phone battery completely die. Doing so can cause it to age prematu­ rely. In fact, several short charges are bet­ ter than one long charge.

Adjust the thermostat For every degree you heat your home above 20 C, your energy consumption goes up by two to five per cent. Therefore, it’s best to keep the indoor temperature between 18 and 21 C. If you’re still a bit chilly, a knit sweater and woolen socks can help keep you cosy.

Reverse ceiling fans While you should set your ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise in the summer to create a cool breeze, reversing them to a clockwise di­rection in the winter will provide an updraft that recirculates heat downward.

Stop any air leaks To compensate for drafts, your home’s heating system needs to

In addition, if your old smart­ phone has called it quits, make sure you recycle it.

This way the materials can be used to make new products.

Eco-friendly investing: how to build a green portfolio Do you want to invest in green, sustainable initia­ tives? If so, you’ll need to be careful when building your portfolio. Here’s what you should do.

Read the documentation If you’re offered a green, ethical or sustainable invest­ ment, it’s important to do your due diligence as these terms aren’t regulated. To find out if an in­ vestment really is what it says it is, you need to read the brochures and policies supplied by the issuer.

Get the right guidance It’s best to consult a professional to help you make investment choices that are in line with your ecologi­ cal principles. Fortunately, you can look for a financial

adviser with similar values to yours by using the res­ ponsible investment directory at riacanada.ca.

Remember, even a green portfolio should be diversi­ fied, and it’s important to make sure you invest broadly.

Good to know Have you been told that responsible investments pay less than traditional investments? Well, that’s a myth. According to an analysis published by the International Monetary Fund, investing in an environmen­ tal, social and governance (ESG) portfolio yields similar returns as investing in a non-ESG portfolio.

work harder and use more energy. You can locate air leaks by holding a candle near exterior doors, window frames and elec­ trical outlets. If the flame wavers, apply weatherstrip or window film to seal the leak.

Modify your decor Another way to improve insulation around your win­dows is to hang thermal or blac­ kout curtains. And if the tile or hardwood floors in your home are always cold, lay down rugs to keep your feet warm and help create a cosy atmosphere.

Keep in mind that taking these simple steps to help protect the environment will also lower the cost of heating your home.

It’s a win-win situation.

Wednesday, March 2, 2022 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

REAL ESTATE

PAGE 35

The housing dilemma JAY BRIJPAUL brijpaul@carib101.com

REAL ESTATE PRO

In 2012, an average house sold for $350,000. In 2022, a similar home is selling for $1,150,000. Home prices made a triple jump in ten years. Household income on the other hand, lagged behind with only a 38% increase. First time buyers are priced out of the market. One in four first time buyers rely on their parents for a down payment. Small towns are facing similar problems where prices doubled under three years. The Ontario Government assigned a task force in an effort to uncover the root cause of the problem. The task force made 55 recommendations with an effort to build 1.5 million new accommodations in the next ten years. We must double our production.

One of the recommendations is to increase housing density. The existing land is underutilized. Over 70% of properties are designated as single family residential and, in some municipalities, secondary suites are not encouraged. There are many commercial and industrial properties that can be redeveloped to create high density residential. garden and laneway suites can provide more accommodation. High density housing, mixed with commercial space close to railways would make more sense for commuters.

In some areas, it is easier to get a building permit to break and rebuild a bigger home than to make a basement apartment. I recently had a firsthand experience where a group opposed to a minor variance for a side door catering for a base-

ment apartment. Their claim is that secondary suites “in this area can have a negative effect on the neighborhoods including excess car parking, excess traffic, noise and disturbance to the neighbors.” Registered basement apartments are safe for the tenant and adds value to a property. With this kind of objection, the chances for creating affordable rental suites are evaporating.

Visible minorities, marginalized people and young people are the ones who are suffering because of this.

Overhauling the outdated rules at the Ontario Land Tribunal is strongly recommended. The current planning process can be highjacked by opposers. The Tribunal is a quasi-judicial body that grants approval to projects that should have been accepted by the municipality. Even if approval is given, adversaries can appeal to the Tribunal, stalling the project for years and in the process many projects flatline.

NIMBism (not in my backyard) slows down the approval process, drives costs up and shuts out new residents from moving in.

Currently, the approval process is clogged with over 1,000 appeals. The task force strongly recommends an end to public consultation on a number of projects that are clogging up the system. If implemented, new housing projects would be assessed by government planners who can give an automatic approval to build garden suites, basement apartments and up to four-unit homes on a residential lot. More complex development projects should engage the community but only to certain extent. This is a giant leap in the right direction.

Heritage homes is another area of concern. Many properties along rapid transit system could be revamped or redeveloped to provide high density housing.

Many anti- developers would lobby to classify these properties as heritage properties and as such, they cannot be modified or demolished. This in turn would lead to the properties being devalued. One recom-

mendation is to compensate homeowners for value losses when properties are designated as heritage homes. If implemented, we would see less properties classified as heritage homes, freeing up more properties along the subway lines to be redeveloped into high density accommodations.

This would also reduce traffic congestion.

Another recommendation is to scrap minimum parking retirement - an outdated Bylaw. It is estimated that minimum parking requirements add about $165,000 to the cost of a new housing unit. The demand for parking spaces is declining. Many builders are having a difficult time selling parking spaces with two thirds of their parking stalls remaining unsold.

The task force recommends a more streamlined approach for subdivision approval. They cited an example where in 1966, it took seven months to approve a building subdivision. Today, it would take over ten years. We need to cut the red tape

across, not lengthwise.

Development charges are astronomically high to build new subdivisions.

This is the cost to build sewers, roads and other services needed for that subdivision.

The municipality usually takes 5% of the cost of the project in money or in land. This cost is passed on to the new homeowners.

In Ontario, this can be as much as $135,000 per home. The system is unfair because a buyer buying a small home must pay the same fees as a buyer buying a larger one.

It’s a negative step towards affordability.

Another discouraging factor is that this cost must be paid before approval is granted. On the other hand, most of the money collected is not being used for the intended purpose. The City of Toronto, in 2019, for example, held $644 million which was not used. If the municipalities charged less development charges, the cost of building new affordable housing could be reduced.

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PAGE 36

HOME

4 types of interior doors Interior doors come in a wide variety of styles. Here’s an overview of four types you may want to consider for your home.

1. Panel doors are a classic choice. They’re affordable, durable and often feature sty­ lish square or oblong panel configurations. They’re most suitable for high-traffic areas such as bathrooms and bedrooms.

2. Bi-fold doors fold outward and tuck in close to the wall to save space. Conse­ quen­tly, they’re a great option for tight areas such as closets, laundry rooms, pantries and storage rooms.

3. Barn doors are the perfect complement to a home that has a rustic, industrial or farm­house design. They hang from a top rail, allowing them to slide over large

openings. Consequently, they’re great for di­vi­ding spaces like of­­fi­ces and playrooms.

4. French doors instantly add charm and so­phistication to your home. They come in a variety of sizes, materials, styles and glass pane configurations. The dou­­ble door design is perfect for cordoning off living rooms and formal dining rooms while still allowing in plenty of natural light.

You can also choose between different ty­ pes of cores for your interior door to in­ crease privacy and effectively block out sound.

For personalized advice about what style of door would best suit your home, reach out to an interior designer or the sales staff at your local stores.

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 2, 2022

A buyer’s guide to washers and dryers Are you in the market for a washer and dryer? Here are some things to keep in mind as you shop for your new appliances.

Size Measure how much space you have to accommodate a washer and dryer. Keep in mind that you need to leave room behind both ap­pliances for plumbing and ventilation. You should also factor in how many people will use the machines.

Type Top-load washing machines with agitators are often the most affordable option, but they tend to be louder, less efficient and hasher on clothes than high-efficiency top-loaders. Alternatively, you can opt for a front-load wa­sher, which uses a tumble

method to clean clo­thes. This causes less wear on fabrics and removes more water for quicker drying.

Dryers only come in front-load configurations. If you want to save space, buy front-load appliances with frontmounted display panels so you can stack them.

Features Most new washers and dryers come with a variety of energy-saving features such as automatic temperature control and moisture sen­sors. To make sure your appliances are energy efficient, be sure to look for the Energy Star certificate.

To find the right washing machine and dryer for your home, visit the appliance stores in your area.

FUN

Wednesday, March 2, 2022 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 37

WEEK OF FEBRUARY 27 TO MARCH 5, 2022

ARIES

The luckiest signs this week: ARIES, TAURUS AND GEMINI

It’s time to tidy up at work and home. Cleaning your environment will help you clear your mind. You’ll get help from those you love.

TAURUS

If you can’t decide on a career, you’ll be inspired to take on a new chal­lenge you’re passionate about. Em­bracing change will enrich your life.

PUZZLE NO. 756 ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 756

GEMINI

HOW TO PLAY :

You’ll invest in training, which willbroaden your intellectual and spiri­ tual horizons. If you have young chil­dren on spring break, you may be surprised by how much you enjoy their company.

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

CANCER

This is an excellent week to apply for a loan or renegotiate your mortgage. At the very least, you’ll find a solution to all your financial problems without tightening your purse strings.

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

LEO

At work, you’ll have a record number of clients. Fortunately, each one will be more profitable than the last. If you’re single, you’ll find your soul­m ate at an event you attend with your friends.

VIRGO

PUZZLE NO. 45 48. Kind of carpet 49. Yours and mine 50. Ball holder 51. Sharp flavor 52. Hold on to 53. Finish 54. “____ So Cold” DOWN

ACROSS

1. Pretzel coating 5. Bro’s sib 8. Living room item 12. Frosting user 13. Big fuss 14. Startled 15. No charge

16. Ruby or opal 17. Depart 18. Gull-like bird 19. Actor Clark ____ 21. Big truck fuel 23. Cleo’s serpent 26. In arrears 29. Type of tire 31. Twining plants

32. TV and radio 33. Panic 35. Rationally 36. Earlier than, in poems 37. Minimum 39. Fasten again 40. Emerald ____ 44. Halt, to a horse 47. Find a sum

1. Put through a sieve 2. Farm unit 3. Malicious look 4. More stylish 5. Drooped 6. Hunches 7. Gloomy 8. Umpire’s call 9. Nocturnal bird 10. Admission charge 11. Juicy thirstquencher 20. South American animals 22. Shoe part 23. Camp helper 24. Use a catamaran 25. Theater production 26. Morsel of food 27. Continuously

28. Employ 30. Tooth fixers 34. Turn 35. Sowed 38. Extend 39. Grate 41. Deposed Iranian ruler 42. Bowling area 43. Nest contents 44. Stir-fry pan 45. Color tone

46. Mined matter

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 45

Take time to think about your current projects. Make sure you negotiate terms that benefit you, and double-check the fine print. If you’re in a rela­tionship, don’t underestimate the po­wer of small acts of kindness.

LIBRA

Planning a move takes a lot of fore­thought. Consequently, you’ll need to do a considerable amount of leg­work to get things done. You’ll be proud of the steps you take to im­prove your living situation.

SCORPIO

The most important thing in life is your health. You may try a new diet that will transform your quality of life and fill you with pride.

Your perseverance and commitment will pay off.

SAGITTARIUS

Others may be critical of you. Now is the time to confront them. It’s impor­tant to speak your mind and talk openly about what others may be too scared to admit.

CAPRICORN

You’ll finally receive the money you’ve been waiting for in the form of a re­fund or claim. If you’re in a relation­ship, your significant other will make you wait.

AQUARIUS

Don’t make rash decisions, especially when it comes to money and relation­ships. You’re on the verge of a new be­ginning, but many things are holding you back. You must learn to keep up.

PISCES

You may be questioning yourself. Does your job feel stagnant? Is it time fora change? Now is the time to make room for more happiness in your life.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING

the free

Classifieds Your destination to buy, sell and post!

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FORWANTED SALE HELP GENERAL HELPER: Looking for a helper to do general labour, garden cleaning, landscaping, and winter snow removal. Cash paid weekly. Located at Morningside & Lawrence in Scarborough. Please call: (416)269-5174.

HIRING FOR CLEANING: Looking for experience people for general cleaning evenings and night.

Must speak English and can drive to areas in the GTA. Call or Text 647-239-4808. Seriou calls only

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SALES REPS WANTED

We are in the process of expansion and constantly looking for the best of the best! Dedicated salespeople; people interested in opportunities to help others while also being able to help themselves. For more information, please contact Trish 647-722-6298 or trish@carib101.com

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PAGE 40

FINANCE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 2, 2022

The Power of passive income and its potential to grow over time and yield amazing results!

CLEVE DeSOUZA cleve@carib101.com

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

The idea of earning passive income may seem like a fantasy for many people, but in reality it can be a way to slowly build wealth over time. The primary reason that many people disregard this income strategy, is because they fail to see the long-term potential value it offers. Let’s have a look at what passive income actually is and ways that it can build wealth for you.

What is passive income?

Passive income is any type of income stream that doesn’t require you to put in daily work to earn it. In many cases, there is work required at the onset and perhaps at some points along the way, but there will also be times when it will generate income without any work at all. Passive income is not necessarily a side job, but often people

will use their side hustle time to establish passive income opportunities. Passive income can be quite consistent, or it can be very sporadic. There are some people who rely on passive income as their primary source of income, but more often than not it just helps to supplement regular income.

Examples of passive income So, what exactly does passive income look like? For some people, it can be as simple as putting extra money into an investment or asset account that pays interest or dividends. Each earning period, income is received, and no work was done to earn it.

For other people, passive income might be a rental property or leasing out an unused portion of their home or business.

While there will be some initial and ongoing work required to secure a tenant and collect rents and such, the income largely is generated without daily efforts.

There are also many other types of passive income that don’t require you to really have any assets or cash to get started.

Selling a digital product, for example, can be a fabulous way to earn passive income on a hobby. If you love to take photos or edit them, consider uploading and selling stock images or photo filter templates. Do

you dabble in herbal remedies or love to cook in your spare time? Consider writing and then self-publishing an ebook to sell.

Perhaps you have in-depth knowledge about something that others would want to learn. You could develop an online course to sell or record a paid webinar training. Additionally, there are hundreds, if not thousands, of other ways to earn passive income from things like: blogging, YouTube channels, app building, vending machines, affiliate marketing, advertising on your car, and peer to peer lending.

Why passive income works While receiving a few cents a day from blog advertising, a little rent from placing an ad on your car, and a small royalty payment each month from ebook sales may not seem like it would create wealth, it does add up over time. In fact, if you were to earn just $10 of consistent passive income per day, it would yield over $3,500 in extra income per year. Do this for ten years and you could potentially increase your net worth by nearly $40,000. While it isn’t a “get rich quick” strategy, passive income does have the potential to grow over time, yielding amazing results.

3 questions to askbefore switching home insurance plans Are you moving or simply unhappy with your current home insurance policy? If so, here are three questions to ask yourself before making a switch.

1. Do you have all the relevant information?

Any insurance company you approach for a quote will ask you a series of questions to determine what policy will best suit your needs. These questions will likely require you to know the size of your home, the flood risk for the property, the type of heating system that’s installed, the total

value of your belongings and more.

2. Will you be charged for terminating your current insurance policy?

You can cancel or change your home insurance policy at any time. However, you may be charged an administrative fee if you do.

Ask your current insurer about their termination fees and procedures so you know this information before signing a new contract.

3. Will you require additional coverage?

Every home insurance policy has its limita-

tions, and it’s important to accurately assess the value of your belongings to determine whether they’re covered under the basic plan. In some cases, you may need to purchase additional coverage. For example, pricey items like tractors, snowblowers, antiques and jewelry often require specialized coverage.

If you have any questions about home insurance or you want to learn more about the available policies, contact an insurance broker near you.

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PAGE 42

AUTOMOTIVE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, March 2, 2022

What to do if your car gets flooded

6 tips for driving in the rain Though driving in the rain might not seem as dangerous as driving in the snow, it still poses certain risks. Here are six tips for safely navigating a downpour.

1. Reduce your speed The faster you drive on a wet road, the more likely it is that your car will lose traction and hydroplane. Additionally, driving fast with reduced visibility is risky. If you want to avoid getting in an accident, slow down.

2. Avoid puddles Puddles often conceal deep potholes that can damage your vehicle. Moreover, spla­ shing water can temporarily blind other mo­ torists and lead to an accident.

3. Maintain a safe following distance Your brakes are less effective on wet roads, so it’s important to increase your braking distance. If you tailgate the vehicle in front of you and you’re forced to suddenly brake, you may not be able to prevent a collision.

4. Avoid ruts When it rains, water tends to collect in ruts along the road. Therefore, drive slightly to the right or left of any ruts and reduce your speed to avoid hydroplaning.

5. Don’t use cruise control Using cruise control when it’s raining is unsafe If your wheels lose traction, your car’s cruise control feature will accelerate to compensate for the loss of power.

6. Brake carefully The combination of heavy rain, dirt and de­ bris can make roadways slippery. Conse­ quently, slamming down on your brakes on a wet street or highway can lock your tires and cause your vehicle to spin out of control. Remember to brake gently.

Finally, regardless of the time of day, make sure to turn on your headlights to ensure you’re visible to other motorists when it’s raining.

If your vehicle gets flooded after a heavy rain, you need to take precautions.

Though your car may seem just fine from the outside, its internal electrical compo­ nents may be dama­ged or corroded. Mo­ reover, if your ve­hicle was exposed to a considera­ble amount of water, it may no longer be roadworthy. The reality is that most flooded vehicles are beyond repair.

If your vehicle gets flooded, the first thing you should do is call your insu­ rance company and set up a damage as­

sessment. An inspector will determine whether your car has suffered irreparable damage or if the vehicle is salvageable.

However, if you have a compre­ hensive car insurance plan, your vehicle should be covered for flood damage. In this case, you’ll be reimbursed ac­cording to the plan’s established terms and condi­ tions.

Contact your car insurance provi­ der to go over the details of your plan.