Brampton Fire & Emergencies Services (tweeted @BramptonFireES) that they would be celebrating BHM by having one of their fire trucks wrapped around. “The truck celebrates Black inventors and their contributions to the international fire service. If you spot it out and about, and it’s safe to do so, snap a pic and share it with us.”
The idea of having a wrapped Brampton fire truck to celebrate BHM was Michelle John’s idea. She is a Fire/ Life Safety Education Officer for the City of Brampton, and has been with the Brampton Fire and Emergencies Services for over 26 years. She was hired initially as an administrative assistant and continued her education by enrolling in the diploma and certificate courses to increase her competency in fire safety and prevention. She had to balance her studies while working full-time in her present job. She has been educating Bramptonians for over eleven years about fire safety.
In November 2021, Michelle John was awarded Premier’s Award for Community Services for her passionate commitment to the safety of the people of Flower City.
“When I got accepted at Sheridan as a student, I never thought there’d be a day when I’d receive an award in recognition of my work. I hope this award inspires women of colour to see the value in working hard and the value in investing in themselves through college education. I’d like people in my community to see that anything is possible and they’re not limited because of the colour of their skin.”
Michelle John graduated from the Legal Office Administration program at Sheridan College in 2021. Janet Morrison, President and Vice-Chancellor of Sheridan College is supportive of Michelle receiving the Premier Award. He states, “We’re
so proud of Michelle’s commitment to the community and the life-saving work that she does. She is an incredible role model for our students and graduates. Her resilience and determination are deeply inspiring, and her career success is an important reminder of what’s possible when people stay focused on realizing their goals.”
She was the first Black female to be hired in the fire department. She was promoted to an administrative position in October 2022. When the idea came to her to have the fire truck wrapped for BHM, she did some preliminary investigations and found out it was never done before in Canada or globally. She approached her colleagues: Ravjot Chhatwal, Sikh Division Chief, and Ryan Agard who were supportive of her idea.
Michelle believes that it is important that there be historical documentation of this important occasion in the history of the Black community in Brampton. She uses her work in the community as a forum not just to provide information about fire safety but to show the importance of representation. This is particularly vital for Black youths and children who are considering a career in the fire service. Michelle states, “That was my goal through this idea to represent the input to the fire service from the Black community.”
I interviewed Michelle and she shared with me her stories, experiences, successes and accomplishments during her over 16 years with Brampton Fire & Emergencies Services. She recalled the early years when she started as an administrative assistant and many of the challenges she faced. As the only Black female in a largely White environment, she experienced racism, obstacles, and setbacks. She told me that out of approximately 500 employees, there was only four of a racialized background.
Michelle moved to Brampton
in August 1978, and after her marriage dissolved, she became a single parent of three boys. She is grateful for the opportunities that her work provided as it enabled her to spend quality time with her boys and nurture them to overcome the inherent challenges of: systemic racism, marginalization, stigmatization, and racial discrimination that they faced daily. Her boys are currently 29, 27 and 22 years old.
Michelle’s rise to her current role is a testament to her resilience, hard work, determination, and perseverance. She was born on the twin island of Trinidad and Tobago. She states, “I am Trinidadian by birth and Tobagobian by heart.” She is passionate about her Trini roots, and for the past ten years, she has raised the T&T flag at the annual flag-raising ceremony held in Brampton to mark Trinidad & Tobago Independence on August 31st.
Michelle brings excitement to her job as she educates the wider community about the importance of fire safety and tries to encourage underrepresented groups to pursue a career in the Fire Department and Emergencies Services. She knows that representation matters and she envisions a future where it will become, “More diverse and equitable as hiring practices are expanded to recruit more community members.” Michelle is optimistic about the future and will continue to build community.
“You sometimes hear about liberal bias in the media these days, how they’re constantly letting our government off the hook for no good reason. Frankly, I think that’s insulting. It’s clear that they let us off the hook for a very good reason. Because we paid them $600 million.”
Prime Minister Justin TrudeauThis quote comes from the 2019 Parliamentary Press Gallery dinner, an annual event at which attending politicians give speeches with plenty of jokes, much like the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.
About 39 minutes into this video of the dinner, posted on YouTube by Global News, Trudeau makes the comment that appears in the quote above. It was an allusion to a Canadian government program to help struggling news outlets.
Now, the claim is that Trudeau
was making a joke during the dinner. He wasn’t claiming that he had bribed the media, but as a journalist who has been watching what is happening in Canada, what is happening to our sources of information, this is no joking matter. Truth is essential in society, but the situation in Canada is worse than people imagine. Mainstream media in Canada (and elsewhere), has been largely obedient to the government even though they deny it.
In July 2019, the Federal Government announced it would be funding many initiatives to counter “online disinformation.” This was six months PRIOR to the pandemic that took place. Again, this was set up IN ADVANCE of 2020. And it’s strange just how many of the leaders of these groups have political connections.
Through a long process of regulation, licensing, and cash handouts, Trudeau managed to bring nearly the entire Canadian media under government supervision. In its 2019 budget, the federal government rolled out nearly $600 million in subsidies for select media outlets that obtain the federal government’s approval. Again, this was right before the pandemic hit, right before major censorship happened to all and any outlets that did not follow
the rhetoric of mainstream media. It has left me questioning, who is the media loyal too: the people or the government?
Let’s face it; propaganda is the single most overlooked and under-appreciated aspect of human society. The ability of those in power to manipulate the way ordinary people think, act and vote has allowed for an inverted totalitarianism, turning citizens into prison wardens, and allowing those with the power to continue doing as they please, unbothered by the interests of us, the people.
What are often deemed as credible news sources can often knowingly or unknowingly be pushing political agendas and propaganda. It is no wonder that according to a study conducted by Reuters Institute’s 2022, trust in the Canadian news media has sunk to its lowest point in seven years.
The study, produced by the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism at the University of Oxford, has found that trust in the news has dropped 13% since 2016. Only 42% of Canadian respondents trust “most news, most of the time,” a slight drop from 2021 when it was at 45%.
The days of objective news reporting (he said/she said) are not gone but have been reduced in importance
since the 1970’s. Mainstream outlets have increasingly emphasized analysis in news coverage—not quite so much “who, what, when, where” as “why.” There has been a profound cultural shift in journalism, and it is not for the better unfortunately.
We watched as mainstream journalists ignored the ongoing pandemic, they were otherwise using to shame Canadians into lockdown. After hundreds of thousands of protesters and rioters clambered through the streets, the media continued to blame freedom fighters, churches, and protestors for coronavirus upticks, while crediting Black Lives Matter protests with helping to slow the spread of the virus.
It may be time for journalists to acknowledge that they write from a set of values, and that just perhaps the scripts that they read every day are drafted and paid for by the governmental system they reside in. This will not be easy, since journalists have spent decades denying that their personal values have anything to do with their news reporting.
The only thing that will lead to real change is the people losing trust in corrupt institutions and questioning the information that is presented to them. Critical thinking is at an all-time low, but there is hope.
has been a profound cultural shift in journalism, and it is not for the better unfortunately
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2022, 10AM–2PM
SATURDAY, APRIL 1, 2023, 10AM-2PM
GEORGE BROWN COLLEGE
ary as Black History Month in Canada in 1993.
The cold weather outside did not dampen the: spirit, energy, and enthusiasm of the over two hundred people who gathered at the Bellagio Boutique Event Venue in Vaughan.
Thursday, February 23rd, 2023, was truly an historic day; Afroglobal Television in association with the Carpenters District Council of Ontario, The Painters Union and the Plumbers Unions, and others hosted their Black History Month Showcase.
The theme of the event was “Honouring the Past, Inventing the Future,” which was a fitting tribute to the African-Canada: elders, leaders, politicians, youth, government ministers, religious figures, and community representatives who were present there.
The evening’s event was hosted by Patricia Bebia Mawa, Executive Vice President of AfroGlobal Television (AFT). Founded in September 2008 AFT is a global super channel that caters to the people of African heritage worldwide. It showcases the best of Africa and the diaspora through programs: that inspire, educate and entertain.
The keynote speech was delivered by Hon. Dr. Jean Augustine, the first African-Canadian woman elected to the Parliament of Canada in 1993. She was elected four times in the Toronto-area riding of Etobicoke-Lakeshore until 2006 when she formally retired from politics. She was appointed as a Member of the Order of Canada in 2009 and was the recipient of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012. In addition, her extensive contributions to education and politics were recognized in 2014 when she was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire. It was largely due to her efforts that a historic motion was passed in Parliament to designate Febru-
In her speech, she mentioned her early days in Canada (1960’s) when the: Charter of Rights and Freedoms, Human Rights Code, Landlord and Tenant Act and police-community relations did not exist. These came about as a result of the social activism and social justice by community activists and change agents. She states, “We were there when the French sailed through the St. Lawrence and explored a new country. We learned to live with and care for those who were there before us. We fought in wars at home and abroad. We stood up for equality, tolerance, and justice. We were inspired by men like the first Canadian naval recipient of the Victoria Cross. We are emboldened by the adventurous spirit of Maddie Mayes and the Black pioneers of Western Canada. We have come a long way.”
A significant event of the evening was the commemoration of the achievements of the No.2 Construction Battalion. PM Justin Trudeau delivered an apology to descendants of Canada’s first and only Black battalion on July 9th, 2022, which was celebrated during Black History Month 2023. The Royal Canadian Mint issued a $20 fine silver coin designed by artist Kwame Delfish that honours the service and sacrifice of these battalion members.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of the $100,000 Chris Campell Scholarship to George Brown College. Chris serves as Vice-President of Carpenters Union Local 27 and Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at Carpenters District Council of Ontario. This scholarship will be of assistance to any youth who is interested in pursuing a training certification course, diploma, or degree studies in the construction industry or labour studies.
Anyone who missed the spectacular AfroGlobal Black History Month Showcase can catch it on the Afroglobal Television network, available on: Rogers 708, Bell 2472, Eastlink 886, Ignite 887, Telus 2710 across Canada. In addition, it will be shown as a broadcast special on OMNI Television, courtesy of Rogers Media.
The release of a People for Education report on Monday, February 27th, 2023, has raised alarm bells regarding the state of mental health crisis among students. The report highlights the fact that students and school staff are currently facing mental health challenges; mental health and well-being should be priorities for Ontario. In response to this crucial and timely report, the 83,000 strong Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario has called on the Ontario government to respond to this crisis.
ETFO has called for the government to address the mental health crisis in schools. ETFO reaffirms that they, “Continue to call on the province to provide adequate mental health resources and funding, and on school boards to deliver the comprehensive support educators and students need.” The Ontario government did offer some level of mental health support during the COVID-19 pandemic.
ETFO believes that the level of mental health support from the provincial government is not enough. “The government must fund the supports in schools and in the community that are necessary to ensure student’s: developmental, emotional,
and behavioural needs are met, so that ETFO members can focus on supporting students’ learning needs. School boards also play a role. System coordination, a focus on equity, and early identification should be prioritized, as well as mental health promotion.”
Karen Brown, President of ETFO has strongly advocated for its members and the students that they work with in order to obtain the maximum mental support. She states, “Education and students need an education budget that prioritizes their mental health, well-being, and academic success. The government must expand school-based resources, supports, and services to meet the growing mental health and well-being needs of students and educators in every region across Ontario. Those who live in rural communities deserve the same access to services as those who live in Toronto.”
President Brown would like to see school boards move beyond a focus on the academic performance of students to an interest in their holistic wellness. She notes, “School boards should also avoid confusing, performative messages related to health, wellness, and mental health. Although they say they support well-being, their focus seems to be on academic achievement alone, instead of a holistic approach to learning that supports student growth, wellness, and healthy active living.”
The press release acknowledges a recent submission by ETFO to the Provincial Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs in which it made these four specific recommendations related to mental health:
• Provide additional funding to improve
access to in-school supports, including guidance counsellors, social workers, psychologists, and child and youth workers, especially in underserved areas
• Allocate funding for additional in school and community supports necessary to ensure students’ developmental and behavioural needs are met
• Develop and deliver long-term, fully funded, comprehensive, culturally responsive mental health support for students, in consultation with mental health experts, teachers, education workers, unions and other education stakeholders
• Allocate: on-going, sustainable funding for high-quality professional learning for educators in the area of student mental
health, to take place within the instructional day
EFTO reiterates that while educators are professionally trained they are not mental health professionals with the required skill sets to address complex health issues.
President Brown notes, “Students rely on educators and other education workers to support their academic, physical and socio-emotional needs. Without access to the critical support and resources they need, many students, including those who are disproportionately impacted (e.g. students who identify as 2SLGBTQ+ and/or racialized) will continue to be underserved and at risk. At its core, this is a human rights issue that impacts student and member safety and well-being.”
When my 26-year-old son who has a good job looked at me and said, “Mom, I really think I will have to live with you forever because it’s nearly impossible to live on my own,” it broke my heart. These are the words of a concerned Canadian mother who wonders if her son will ever be able to fend for himself in today’s Canada.
Rent increases and some heartless landlords are making life extremely difficult for many Canadians, and it leaves one to wonder where is our government in all this, what are they doing, or do we have a government at all?
Imagine showing up to view what is a bachelor apartment in Toronto only to find out that it was marketed to you as a one-bedroom suite, and to add insult to injury the cost is $2,000 plus hydro per month; let that sink in for a moment.
Canadian renters are now paying $224 more per month compared to a year ago. This is an increase of over 12%. The average person makes $40,000 a year, and if your rent is $2,500 (in many cities) that alone is $30,000, remember this is before bills, food, and clothing, if you are lucky, you will become best friends with the Salvation Army real fast just to survive.
In the last three years, workingclass Canadians have become prey to greedy landlords and supermarkets that are just interested in their bottom line, and even though a few media outlets have called some of them out, there is no recourse for the average sufferer.
Our youths are supposed to be the future men and women of tomorrow, but with all that I just explained above coupled
with low wages, dead-end jobs and even bidding wars on basic rentals, it is becoming more and more impossible for young couples to be able to afford to purchase a home in this country.
With buying out of reach for most Canadians, this puts more pressure on the rental market, however, in a fair and balanced society the government’s job is to implement national regulations that protect the people from not being able to afford a roof over their heads, but sadly in Canada this is not the case anymore.
Businesses are closing left, right, and centre in this country. Just recently Nordstrom has decided to leave Canada in search of greener pastures, and reasons cited for leaving are inflation and rising interest rates in this country, which have affected consumer spending.
Even the LCBO has announced that in a few days, the cost of beer, wine, and spirits will rise by more than six per cent in April, so if anyone thinks he or she will get drunk in order to forget the cost of
living in Canada, he or she can forget the idea.
When will Canadians stand up and say this has gone on for too long now. Is this the legacy we are planning to leave our children?
If this situation goes unchecked very soon, tent cities are going to become more popular than condos, especially in cities like Vancouver and Toronto.
I had promised myself to stick to the rent story, but to find the cause of a problem one must first get to the root of it. This situation was created on purpose. First, a false so-called pandemic was declared, followed by months of forcefully closing hardworking people’s businesses e.g., “Adams Barbecue.” Then partial reopening and now followed by interest rate hikes on everything including rent. Can anyone here see the planned collapsing formula, or is it just I?
We were immersed into a murder mystery that threw us into the center of a brutal murder. It was up to us to examine the clues, evaluate the suspects, and find the thread that tied the case together. We spent the night unraveling each web of lies and clues to assist the hosts in solving the mystery. It could have been anyone.
Over the course of the evening, we continued to receive additional clues, and no one knew a thing until the murderer was revealed at the end of the night…
On Sunday March 5th, 2023, at The Aga Khan Museum, the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited to attend the 5th Annual CAFTCAD Awards by The Canadian Alliance of Film and Television Costume Arts and Design Hosted by Actors Peter Keleghan & Samora Smallwood.
Canadian Screen Award Winner Peter Keleghan (Slings and Arrows, Murdoch Mysteries, etc.) and Samora Smallwood (Lifetime’s thriller Death She Wrote, OWN’s The Kings of Napa) did a tremendous job of setting the stage for an interactive murder mystery that the entire audience was actively engaged in.
It was a night to recognize and bring to the forefront the outstanding quality of talent Canadian costume designers and artisans provide across our screens.
The CAFTCAD Awards celebrate craftsmanship in textile, art, short films, web series, television to international blockbusters. The night united the Canadian costume community, and recognized and rewarded their skills and talent.
It brought to the forefront the unique talents of the individuals and teams and their contributions to today’s stories. Several of the awards presented were sponsored by: IATSE 873, Nobis Inc., IATSE 891, and Berman & Co. Awards include Excellence in Crafts: Textiles, Building, Costume Illustration, and Special Effects Costume Building as well as Excellence in Costume Design: Web Series, Short Film, Indie Feature, TV Contemporary, TV Period, TV Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Film Contemporary, Film Period, Film Sci-Fi/Fantasy, TV International, and Film International.
Until that night, I was unaware of the work that goes into designing costumes for movies and shows. These individuals have to accentuate the: particular era, time of day, season and purpose a character is enduring. They also reveal the overall: feel, genre and style of the production itself.
This extensive work includes significant: researching, collating, designing, sewing, and purchasing materials, accents and fabrics to make a range of costumes that fit the overall design of the production at hand.
Costumes aren’t as straightforward in comparison to wearing everyday clothes. Some costumes need to be fitted and tailored to the person who is portraying a character. A tailored piece of clothing may look fabulous on one person, but horrific on another. Designers take the time they need to know who the characters really are, because the character designs the
costume. It’s all storytelling. It was amazing to see costumes from films we all know and love up close and personal. The mannequins appeared to be custom fit to accommodate the costumes themselves, so the clothes all kept their original dimensions. I watched the award winners humbly accept their awards, each speaking to the power of design, and the importance of the CAFTCAD Awards. The prestigious award winners include:
Excellence in Illustration
KEVIN LAU
Excellence in Craft Building
Sue Furlong
Geoff Hughes
Olena Fredorenko
Star Trek: Strange New World
Excellence in Craft Textiles
Anna Pantcheva
Star Trek. Strange New Worlds S1
Excellence in SPFX Building
Tamara Rigby-Funke
Sarah Blostein
Costume Design in Short Film
John Dunnett
Eli Roth’s Haunted House: Trick-VR- Treat
Costume Design in Web Series
Beatriz Arevalo
Costume Design in Indie Feature
Ginger Martini (Rosie)
Costume Design in TV West - Contemporary
Caroline Cranston Snowpiercer
Costume Design in TV East - Contemporary
Luis Sequeira
Cabinet of Curiosity 104, The Outside
Costume Design Film - Contemporary
Laura DeLuca (Violent Night)
Costume Design in FILM - Period
Jessica Kalan
Carmen Thompson (Bones of Crows)
Costume Design in TV - Period
Luis Sequeira Cabinet of Curiosity 106, Dreams in the Witch House
Costume Design in Film Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Emma Doyle (Slash/Back)
Costume Design in TV Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Bernadette Croft
The most important award of the night, the Nobis Industry Icon Award was presented to Louise Jobin, a pioneer in the community of customers in Quebec, Canada. From the beginning of her profession, she has actively participated in establishing the standards of the trade, helping to raise the bar for the entire profession as an AQTIS union president and spokesperson. It was a lot of fun doing something different and being around a fantastic group of creative minds. I am looking forward to next year’s awards; I wonder what they will have planned for us this time.
Oh yes, the murderer ended up being…
A night recognizing the outstanding quality of talented Canadian costume designers; the 5th Annual CAFTCAD Awards
“Which nation, besides Canada, administration do you most admire and why?”
“There’s a level of admiration I actually have for China, because their basic dictatorship is allowing them to actually turn their economy around on a dime and saying, ‘We need to go greenest fastest, we need to start, you know, investing in solar.’”
This comment by our very own Justin Trudeau is going to become relevant to you as you read this article, and I will warn you now; it should worry you!
World government actions subtly shape how their citizens think, speak, and act, thereby influencing where we place our trust, hope, and expectations. The authority to enforce laws carries certain implicit powers: the power to promote certain causes, prioritize certain risks, endorse certain values and beliefs, uphold certain standards, encourage certain expectations, and define and interpret certain terms.
World governments also have the power to influence our expectations and outlook on important social questions, such as where to seek assistance for material needs; whom to blame in times of crisis; and what people are entitled to by right (privacy, great healthcare, abortions). A healthy democracy is one in which citizens give the government only the loyalty it deserves without diminishing their trust in, or allegiance to other institutions and authorities, but how can we do this if the democratic system we have built trust in is being infiltrated by foreign entities?
“This is far larger. The government of China is an existential threat to Canada on multiple levels and we need to come to grips with that.”
MP John McKayCanadian Politicians are Speaking Out
A bombshell response was given by MP McKay after revelations of interference in the past elections. In his statement, he was not talking about the good people from China, Chinese Canadians, or even the local people who are being named in top secret documents being leaked to certain Cana-
dian media. He’s talking about the communist party that runs China.
“I think we need as a nation to come to grips with the desire of the government of China to turn us all into vassal states,” said McKay.
When I looked up vassal state in the dictionary, It was described as a “state that is subordinate to another” where a “government is chiefly directed by the interest of an overlord and patron state.”
Hmmmmm! This doesn’t sound good.
On March 12th, 2023, MP Pierre Poilievre also spoke out against what he had been learning.
“Beijing is using police stations in Canada to intimidate and spy on Chinese Canadians. What has Trudeau done about this bullying by a foreign authoritarian regime on our own soil? Absolutely nothing. Not a single Beijing diplomat has been expelled.”
Last week, I received an email from Ontario Party’s Leader Derek Sloan’s office. In it he shared with us some interesting news.
“We now have a name in the leaked allegations of at least one candidate the Communist Chinese government helped” MP for Don Valley North - Han Dong.
According to these allegations, the Chinese consulate bussed loads of seniors and foreign students to the nomination for Han Dong, telling the students to vote for Dong if they wanted to maintain their visa status. CSIS apparently asked Trudeau to rescind Dong’s nomination due to foreign interference. Trudeau refused.”
Sloan also shared that a House of Commons committee is already investigating election interference, even though certain Liberals are blocking release of some information. These allegations are evidence of things we have known for a long time - namely that the Communist Chinese government has designs on Canada, and their influence reaches far and wide.
A greater concern beyond the actual interference is the fact that a community of residents legally permitted to be in Canada could be mobilized by a foreign government. This is an issue that must be addressed with immigration policy and issuance of student Visas.
China’s Systematic Take-over
China’s show of strength was just the latest diplomatic triumph in Beijing’s drive to sway the system of international organizations in its direction. Earlier victories put Beijing in position to shape international norms and standards, notably with air trav-
el under the Chinese-led International Civil Aviation Organization.
Beijing is pushing its civil servants to the helm of U.N. institutions that set global standards for air travel, telecommunications and agriculture. Gaining influence at the U.N. has allowed China to stifle international scrutiny of its behavior at home and abroad. In March 2019, Beijing won a seat on a five-member panel that selects U.N. rapporteurs on human-rights abuses—officials who used to target Beijing for imprisoning more than a million Uighurs at so-called re-education camps in Xinjiang.
Let’s bring it back to the influence they have over Canada. Beginning in the 1960s, former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau was enamored with the mystique of China’s dictatorship during the murderous Great Leap Forward, which killed as many as 45 million people. It was described by the Washington Post as the “Biggest mass murder in the history of the world.”
Most recently (November 2022), World Economic Forum Founder and Executive Chairman Klaus Schwab sat down for an interview with Chinese Communist Party-owned broadcaster CGTN. In the interview he commended China’s achievements, and suggested the nation could be a “role model” for others around the world.
“I respect China’s achievements … over the last forty years,” Schwab stated matter of factly. He referred to them as “tremendous.” He suggested that China could act as a “Role model for many countries,” admitting that in the end, each country should be left to make its own decision regarding the system it wants to adopt.
“We should be very careful in imposing systems,” he said at the end of the video, “But the Chinese model is certainly a very attractive model for quite a number of countries.”
I want to be very clear about something here; we must overstand that when important levels of governmental institutions are controlled, they influence norms, they influence ways of thinking, they influence international policy, they inject your way of thinking.
The real threat is that China is going to use multilateral institutions to advance their own initiatives and their own values as compared to the values of Canadians.
The Chinese embassy has of course denied any role in manipulating Canadian elections.
On 7th July 2022, VICE News released an eye-opening video report exposing how China’s rapidly growing presence in South
America has reached Guyana. They went undercover to expose allegations of corruption in business deals between the two countries.
China’s investment in Latin America and the Caribbean has four-folded since 2005, reaching over $16 billion, with $130 billion in loans by Chinese banks.
China has been investing heavily in infrastructure projects around the world, and one of its latest endeavors is a $760 million North-South highway in Jamaica. This ambitious project connects the country’s capital, Kingston, to the tourism hub of Ocho Rios in the north, and is expected to greatly enhance transportation and trade in the region. The project has faced criticism and concerns over the environmental impact and potential debt implications for the Jamaican government.
On The Breakfast Club, Dr. Umar Johnson spoke to the fact that Jamaica will be the first Chinese colony in the Caribbean. The Chinese run businesses in Jamaica and other Black countries, but they do not pay taxes to Jamaica. There are reports of them transferring their wealth off to China or UK or European banks like Swiss Banks.
We know that the Chinese have been residing in Jamaica for decades, but they don’t like African-Caribbean people and don’t mix with us. Who owns all of the sugar factories in Jamaica? They live among native Jamaicans, but they don’t buy from them or treat them well. They don’t buy from native Jamaicans, but the native’s buy from them.
There have been recent videos with evidence of their racist behaviors against Africans residing in China, where they have thrown them out of their homes onto the streets despite having paid their rent and mortgages for their accommodation.
They block Africans from going into their shops and refuse to serve them. These horrendous acts have been captured in many videos. The Chinese, in many African countries, have been caught on camera flogging Africans in their own countries.
Let’s not forget the fact that China also has artfully displayed offensive pictures displayed on billboards on their streets and in museums depicting Africans as monkeys and apes. Why do we continue to allow this atrocious behavior to continue?
I guess my final question for readers is, has Canada become another attractive and permissive target for Chinese interference? If so, how many of us realize that this endangers the foundations of our fundamental institutions, including our system of democracy itself?
Has Canada become a permissive target for China’s interference?
Have you taken some time to think about the type of relationship that you have with your government? Regardless of what you may believe, you are in a relationship, and like any stable, nurtured relationship, trust is needed so that order is maintained, and both parties are satisfied.
It cannot be denied; these last three years have shattered the trust that most of us have in the government. Mind you, it was shattered before, but it became glaringly obvious, as Canadian citizens nationwide began asking questions. Declining trust has led to questioning the very legitimacy of elections and public institutions.
If you do not trust someone in a relationship, how are you going to accept the information that they provide to you? Canadians, we are in a relationship with a partner who is withholding the truth, keeping secrets from us.
The government is supposed to play an indispensable role in maintaining a healthy community; they are tasked with articulating the rights and duties of citizens and protecting them from
threats. When the government oversteps its bounds and begins to assume more authority, it weakens other important social institutions, including those, like the family and religious congregations.
Thankfully, we have some allies who are exposing the government, and letting us know what they have been up to.
In July 2022 Dr. Leslyn Lewis outlined a frightening scenario: if Canada signs an international pandemic treaty: Canadians’ travel and medication choices could be restricted, the Constitution could be suspended, and it could all pave the way for a global government. She raised concerns about secretly signed treaties that Canadian citizens have no idea about.
Several legal experts say her claims are completely untrue, and then they used the buzzword intended to discredit anyone who speaks against what the former Liberal government is doing, they called her a “Conspiracy Theorist.”
“This is nothing more than fear mongering. There is nothing to support these really strong assertions,” said Prof. Timothy Caulfield, Canada Research Chair in Health Law and Policy at the University of Alberta.
“There is no treaty the WHO could negotiate that would suspend our Constitution. They just don’t have the power to do that.”
Well Professor Caulfield, I think that you owe Dr. Lewis an apology.
On October 22nd, 2022, Dr. Lewis took to Twitter to announce, “The gov’t
finally admitted that they have a $105.3 million contract with the World Economic Forum for the Known Traveller Digital ID. Take a look at this order paper. It’s no longer a conspiracy theory - it’s a contractual fact!”
Yes Canadians, while we were over here worried about staying alive (Covid fear mongering), the government was signing agreements with third parties without telling us, without giving us a say.
Ready for the tea?
In January 2018, the World Economic Forum’s Platform for Shaping the Future of Mobility introduced its Known Traveller Digital Identity (KTDI) concept, an initiative co-designed by public and privatesector partners that seeks to anticipate the changing behaviors and expectations of travelers, the growing volume of global travellers, and the increasing focus on risk based security to promote more seamless and secure travel.
The Forum and its partners are currently piloting components of the KTDI concept in a real-life, cross-border context between the Netherlands and Canada. Trudeau acknowledged in writing that it has a $105.3 million contract with the WEF to help create a digital identification system for travel.
Have any of us had a say on whether we want a Known Traveller Digital Id?
Let’s see what else they have been hiding.
Canada, Denmark, Italy, Japan, Singapore, UAE and UK signed the world’s first “Agile Nations” agreement at a panel co-organized by the World Economic Forum. This agreement paves the way for the nations to cooperate in helping innovators navigate each country’s rules, test new ideas with regulators and scale them across the seven markets. Priority areas for cooperation include: the green economy, mobility, data, financial and professional services, and medical diagnosis and treatment.
What this over-worded passage is saying is that the Agile Nations Charter will facilitate agile ‘rulemaking’ outside of Parliament. So now our government has given authority to third parties to make decisions on how our lives are run here in Canada. Hmmm!
Our government is supposed to protect the ability of individuals and social institutions to exercise legitimate authority within their own particular areas of influence without unjust interference from other institutions (World Economic Forum), especially without our consent.
I strongly believe that families, religious congregations, and other institutions of civil society must unite their members in cooperative pursuit of the common good. We must cultivate the indispensable virtues that are the foundation of a healthy democracy.
Time to take a STAND! If not now, when?
There has been a collective sense of relief on the part of many unions who launched a constitutional challenge to Bill 307.
Prior to Bill 307, the Ontario government passed Bill 254, the Protecting Elections Act, which was intended to change election-funding rules. There were many concerns expressed by individuals, groups, and unions about the sweeping changes that the Ford government introduced in 2020 even before Bill 254.
These changes were intended to increase levels of restrictions to the Elec-
tion Finance Act in 2017. Bill 254 increased spending restrictions on political advertising except for political parties as well as extending a 12-month, pre-election period restricting third-party advertising. Working Families became the lead applicant along with the Elementary Teachers; Federation of Ontario (ETFO), the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association (OECTA), and the Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation (OSSTF). A constitutional challenge was launched, which was upheld by the Ontario Court of Appeal.
The Ontario government then introduced Bill 307 after the Court of Appeal’s decision nullified major aspects of Bill 254, the Protecting Ontario Elections Act. In a press release on June 8th, 2021, Patrick Dillion, Official Spokesperson for Working Family stated,
“The Ford government’s overreaching legislation amounted to an assault on freedom of expression which is constitutionally protected under the law, which is constitutionally protected by the Charter. We are pleased that the Court
recognizes this and struck down those restrictive provisions. Elections belong to the people and not governments or political parties. Independent voices need to be heard so that important issues can be discussed during elections and not just those chosen by politicians and corporate media interests.”
It was shocking to many: civil liberties advocates, unions, organizations, and individuals when the Ford government took the unprecedented step of using the notwithstanding clause to override Bill 307’s unconstitutional and undemocratic provisions and reintroduce Bill 254. This resulted in: ETFO, OECTA, and OSSTF/FESSO collaborating a second time along with Working Families as well as diverse parties to challenge the legislation.
On Tuesday, March 7th, 2023, a joint press release was issued by ETFO, OECTA,OSSTF/FESSO titled, “Democracy Upheld Again in the Face of Ford’s Antiworker Attacks, Court of Appeal Strikes Down Bill 307.” The press release states, “This ruling by the Court of Appeal for
Ontario rightly finds that Bill 307 ‘unjustifiably infringes’ on the rights of Ontarians to meaningfully participate in our province’s political processes. We are pleased that the court has upheld democracy and restored the rights of all workers and citizens in Ontario.”
The press release indicates that this is the third time that three legislations, Bill 124, Bill 254, and Bill 307 have been struck down by the Court of Appeal on the basis that they attacked workers and undermined Ontario’s democratic rights. It is a concerted attempt by the Ford government to nullify opposition’s voices and silence their critics.
The press release concludes, “Our organizations urge the Ford government to accept the court’s ruling and to commit to upholding Ontarians’ democratic rights. However, rest assured that if the government decides to appeal this ruling, our organizations will continue the fight against this government’s alarming overreaches and abuses of power.”
Canadians, we are in a relationship with a government who is withholding the truth, keeping secrets from us!
“Elections belong to the people and not governments!” Court of Appeal strikes down Bill 307
simone@carib101.com
When laws are passed, and decisions are made in Canada, how many of you feel that you are truly represented?
You go out during voting season, cast your ballot, and for the most part hope for the best. Are you satisfied with how this has turned out so far, and if not, what can be done to change that.
Well, the act of lobbying is one way that individuals and organizations can articulate their interests to: federal, provincial, or municipal governments to influence public policy or government decision-making. With lobbying, it is all about influence; organizations pay big money to have third parties to communicate on their behalf. At the federal level here in Canada, lobbying activities are governed by the Lobbying Act, and provinces and municipalities usually have their own
lobby laws and by-laws. As in most activities played out in society, laws need to be applied: lobbying is no different.
Definition Check-In
The word lobby comes from the German word louba (noun), which means “hall or roof.” The term, which took hold during the Enlightenment era, stems from the public buildings and common halls where legislation was passed.
From this basic definition, we can see that lobbying is political in nature, which might explain why people are suspect of the ethics and honesty of lobbyists.
We are going to look at what is happening here in Canada, and you will overstand why lobbying gets the side eye. Conflict of interest has historically been lobbying Achilles heel, and for good reason. Unlike a citizen or company trying to influence a law or legislator, lobbyists are paid to influence. It’s for this reason that lobbying is sometimes compared to bribery, or extortion.
Before we go any further, I want to repeat something; professional lobbyists are PAID to assist others to represent their concerns to the government. What happens when that person was already part of the government that they are supposed to convince?
This story is going to revolve around a sensitive topic for some of us; vaccines. This story was originally exposed in 2021 but is worth a revisit. It seems that Ontario’s Conservative government was being lobbied by pharmaceutical companies during the pandemic. AstraZeneca is one of the companies that has been inappropriately using their political influence in order to peddle their drugs. Ever wonder why Ford insisted on maintaining martial law until everyone was vaccinated? Look at who he’s been talking to, and who has been talking to him.
I went and took a look at the Ontario Lobbying Registry which is open to the public. Anyone can search it, and for any reason. It’s particularly useful in determining who politicians have been talking to, on whose behalf, and on what subject matter. It really can be a gold mine if used properly. Let’s do a little mining.
Nadia Yee worked as a manager for GlaxoSmithKline for several years. Her role was to get more drugs out to the public. She is currently a Senior Manager for AstraZeneca. Before becoming a drug lobbyist, she worked in the Government of Mike Harris/Ernie Eves, the “Conservatives” in power before Ford.
Jon Feairs started off in the Interim Program in the Ontario Legislature. He then
went to work for M.P.P. Mike Gravelle (a Liberal). He then went on to hold several roles in the Government under McGuinty and Wynne.
Ryan Lock held several roles in different Ministries of the Liberal Governments of Wynne/McGuinty, before he joined GlaxoSmithKline in 2016.
A more recent name that has come to light is Jessica Georgakopoulos. She has been lobbying for GSK. Keep in mind, she worked in Ford’s Office, and was his “Covid Communications Director” for a time (Conflict of Interest).
Georgakopoulos went from working with Ford’s Government on its “pandemic” response, to trying to convince them to buy drugs related to that response. Hmmmmm! (Conflict of Interest).
Lobbyists say they simply want to make sure your elected officials “Hear and understand both sides of an issue before making a decision.” How can you do this effectively when both sides of the issue benefit YOU! Not the public, not our communities, not the people, YOU!
Corporations spending billions of dollars to pay people with access to influence politicians has been and continues to be a slippery slope into corruption.
This new approach involves Active Bystandership for Law Enforcement (ABLE) training and results from best practices, which proactively ensures that officer misconduct is minimized. It is a tool that focuses on creating a transformational cultural shift supporting peer intervention. It was conceived by Georgetown Law Centre for Innovations in Community Safety in conjunction with Sheppard Mullin. There are ten specific standards that must be adhered to for any organization that is interested in going through a detailed application process.
One of the first police organizations to have
its officers go through the training was the Delta Police Department in British Columbia in 2021. The Justice Institute of B.C recognized the success of this initiative. From the positive feedback that was received, it was decided to make ABLE training compulsory for all new recruits that attended the JIBC. ABLE training empowers officers to strategically and successfully intervene, regardless of their rank, to prevent officer misconduct. By preventing harm and avoiding mistakes, which are the intended outcomes of the active bystandership training, the program supports the mental and physical well-being of our officers.
Many officers have to make challenging decisions, and take risky actions in order to resolve many situations. This makes police work even more complex when these officers make the wrong choices, which can have potentially lethal and fatal consequences. There is the existence of a gap that must be closed due to the nature of expectations.
A gap exists when it comes to intervening in the harmful actions of other officers, especially those who are senior in experience or rank, often resulting in officers
becoming passive bystanders. To address this gap, the program will deliver meaningful training on how to perform the duty of “active bystandership” effectively, safely, and consistently.
The program was based on the work of Dr. Ervin Staub, and it is described in the article, “Preventing Violence and Promoting Active Bystandership and Peace: My Life in Research and Applications: Peace and Conflict,” which was published in The Journal of Peace Psychology (24 (1), 95-111) in 2018.
One of the most important observations of Dr. Staub is that “Intervening in another person’s conduct is actually much harder than it looks; there can be various inhibitors to active bystandership, such as: diffusion of responsibility, pluralistic ignorance, potential costs and devaluation of those who need help.”
The 10 standards that are vital to the successful implementation of ABLE training are:
• Community support: letters of support from community affected brings aware -
ness
• Meaningful training: there must be at least 8 hours of initial and 2 hours of refresher
• Dedicated coordination: there is need for a designated program coordinator as host
• Program awareness: benefits and principles of peer intervention must be stressed
• Accountability: there must be an antiretaliation policy to ensure officers abide
• Officer wellness: meaningful reporting policy program must be done
• Reporting: must be done using standard practice with no changes to process
• Measuring officer perceptions: preand post -implementation must be done
• Follow-through: managerial and leadership team must provide full support
• Pay it forward: ABLE-certified instructors must make training available to others
The research is incontrovertible that a revolutionary program like ABLE can play a critical role in addressing officer misconduct.
Bold actions can transform the culture of policing: Active Bystandership Training For Law EnforcementPAUL JUNOR
paul@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
There has been attention that has focused on the role of Councillor James Pasternak and newly appointed Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw in recent weeks.
Councillor Pasternak was first elected to Toronto City Council in 2010 and subsequently in 2014 and 2018 for Ward 6 York Centre. This ward extends from Highway 401 to the north, Don River W Branch, Bathurst, Jane and Keele Streets. Prior to being elected
as TPS’s Chief Myron Demkiw joined him. In a post on Facebook, Councillor Pasternak notes, “Keeping our communities safe also means addressing the root causes of violence and offering support to impacted individuals and families.”
Myron Demkiw was appointed as Chief of the Toronto Police Services on December 19th, 2022. He served as acting Deputy Chief since 2020, and according to an article in the Toronto Star on December 19th, he vowed to, “Repair, earn and maintain,” public trust.
Members of the LGBTQ community expressed opposition to the appointment of Myron Demkiw because of his involvement in the 2000 bathhouse raid which significantly damaged the relationship with the affected community. Chief Demkiw was one of five male officers who participated in the raid on the Pussy Palace, which was hosting a sex-positive event for queer women and trans people. The raid was ruled to be a violation of the civil liberties of the individuals and the TPS was asked to pay $350,000 to the complainants and recruit police officers from the LGBT community.
Chief Demkiw expressed apology to
those that were harmed by the raid, and will publicly apologize in the future after hearing first-hand from those who were directly impacted. He states,”
I am absolutely prepared to make an unreserved apology, but now the time is for me to listen and understand what that apology should be. I need to be informed through my engagement and discussion with the communities that have been impacted. I recognize and acknowledge that there continues to be trauma and concern and an expression of anxiety about my appointment. I definitely understand that.”
On February 15th, 2023 for the online magazine, “Yes, Everything” an article revealed the individuals who were affected by the bathhouse raid. Chanelle Gran: feminist organizer, writer and activist is concerned about the message that the appointment of Myron Demkiw as Chief of TPS sends to the wider community about the normalization of violence and increase of police violence.
In a phone interview with, “Yes, Everything” she states, “We were concerned that his appointment signalled a move towards a more: aggressive, bigger, more bloated, less accountable, more violent police
force that was going to suck up more city resources, and that’s exactly what happened.”
One of the issues raised in the article was the promotion of constable Rick to be in charge of the Professional Standards Unit at the TPS. This unit investigates officers who seriously injure or shoot civilians. Officer Shank killed Ian Clifford Coley, a 20-year Black man in April of 1993, and along with another officer, Hugh Dawson in March of 1997. Shank was not charged by the SIU in the death of Coley and was cleared by a jury in 1999 of manslaughter against Dawson. The article notes that there were allegations of: assault, home invasion, kidnapping, the planting of evidence, the filing of bogus charges and arbitrary detention against Shank.
The Toronto Police Accountability Coalition commented on Shank’s appointment on June 22nd, 2022. It notes, “Police might talk a good line about stopping racism, but as the appointment of Shank reveals, in real life that talk means nothing. It also sends a very strong message to the Black community about how they should fear interaction with Toronto police.”
The population began to move to the big city for employment in the many manufacturing facilities available at the time. What was normal and customary became outdated and shoved aside. The businesspeople of the time knew nothing about human rights, safety within the workplace, or proper pay for the work done. It seemed to many that the new God of invention and technology was not a saviour of humanity, but its oppressor instead.
A group of like-minded English and Frenchmen gathered and attacked the premises of this technological miracle. Parts of humanity declared war upon technology, uncontrolled raw capitalism and society’s evils. These people were known as Luddites.
Today our society faces a new challenge that threatens us in many ways. A.I. generated reality has come to life, replacing the norms of hard work; study and personal application with A.I. generated: art, codes to
generate essays for students. CHAT GPT offers customers the ability to ask questions and the computer system will: write essays, work reports, studies, and poems. A.I. is being applied into our healthcare systems, transportation and workplace systems too. Has A.I. become so good at what it does that it can replace humanity?
Imagine going to your local church hoping for a well-delivered sermon passionately delivered by loudspeaker and A.I. written and delivered too. You go to your place of business where through computer, phone calls and texts you are advised, directed and managed by A.I. Not a person but a machine program.
Fear is spreading among your fellow citizens through A.I. applications the human experience is missing. Evidence of human emotions, reflections, expressions of hard work and challenging human experience can disappear in time, replaced by cold efficiency
and business terminology. Has a Luddite been born today? Do you trust those who program and unleash artificial intelligence upon us all?
A.I. exists to make profit for someone else. So, if an enterprise can be more profitable, will you, or your fellow employee’s face layoffs and possible replacement? How will this improve the planet’s present situation? What will unemployed surplus individuals do with their free time now? When the fishermen of Newfoundland could no longer fish their coasts due to overfishing, over a hundred thousand of them were retrained as computer programmers, with no place to practice their new profession. When the profit margin is more important than a human being’s self-respect and rights, a situation opens for A.I. insertion. Is A.I. friend or foe?
Children are the most vulnerable sectors of our world and yet the least protected. A new report released by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and United Nations International Children’s Education Fund (UNICEF) revealed a disturbing trend. The joint report by ILO and UNICEF titled, “Number of children without social protection increasing globally,” shows that more than 50 million children between the age of 0 and 15 have not been able to access child benefits.
The ILO is the UN agency that brings together governments, employers and workers to drive a human-centred approach to the future of work through employment creation, rights at work, and social protec-
tion and social dialogue. UNICEF according to its website: www.unicef.org is involved in over 190 countries and territories and works for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone.
Shahra Razavi, Director of the Social Protection at the ILO states, “Ultimately, strengthened efforts to ensure adequate investment in universal social protection for children, ideally through universal child benefits to support families at all times is the ethical and rational choice, and the one that paves the way to sustainable development and social justice.”
The report breaks down the areas of the world to draw attention to where the issue is most pressing. There was a significant reduction from 51% to 42% of coverage for children in Latin America and the Caribbean, while in Central Asia and Southern Asia; Eastern Asia and South-eastern Asia; Sub-Saharan Africa; and Western Asia and Northern Africa the coverage rates were approximately 21%, 14%, 11% and 28% respectively since 2016. The report emphasizes that during times of crisis the social protection of children should be a priority and urgent matter.
Data mentioned in the report re -
vealed that about 356 million children are having a difficult time surviving on less than US$1.90 (PPP) a day. In addition, a billion children live in multidimensional poverty, this means, without access to: education, health, housing, nutrition, sanitation, or water.
This was further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which increased it further by 15%. While the pandemic forced governments to unveil new social protection programmes or altered current ones, there was not sufficient work done to ensure protection against future crises.
Natalia Winder-Rossi, UNICEF Director of Social Policy and Social Protection states, “As families face increasing economic hardship, food insecurity, conflict, and climaterelated disasters, universal child benefits can be a lifeline. There is an urgent need to strengthen, expand and invest in childfriendly and shock-responsive social protection systems. This is essential to protect children from living in poverty and increase resilience, particularly among the poorest households.”
ILO and UNICEF outlined a list of steps that policymakers can take to reverse the trend:
• Invest in child benefits, which offer a proven and cost-efficient way to combat child poverty and ensure children thrive
• Provide a comprehensive range of child benefits through national social protection systems that also connect families to crucial health and social services, such as free or affordable high-quality childcare
• Build social protection systems that are rights-based, gender-responsive, inclusive, and shock responsive to address inequities and deliver better results for girls and women, migrant children, and children in child labour
• Secure sustainable financing for social protection systems by mobilizing domestic resources, and increasing budget allocation for children
• Strengthen social protection for parents and caregivers by guaranteeing access to decent work and adequate benefits, including unemployment, sickness, maternity, disability, and pensions
There seems to be a move towards a more: aggressive, bigger, more bloated, less accountable, more violent Police Force in
New report reveals number of children without critical social protection is increasing globally
of where you go, you will encounter sunny climate, sparkling clear waters, and colonial charm. The islands are sure to capture your heart from your very first visit.
Since most Caribbean countries are located on islands, it goes without saying that you’ll find succulent seafood in nearly every restaurant. Even if you don’t enjoy seafood, or enjoy vegetarian or vegan options, it won’t be hard to find something to suit your fancy.
wherever else you need to be. If you have the time, you can cover most of what the island has to offer during your one or two week visit without ever feeling rushed.
rays; what the hell was I thinking?
Working overtime is your life! You’re nursing a broken heart! You’d give anything for a moment of silence! You’ve been on autopilot for years!
Yes, the writing really is on the wall: you need to escape! An escape to a sun-soaked Caribbean paradise. So many of us are overworked, overtired, and overstressed by all of our life obligations. So, guess what, it might just be time for a vacation; a time to rest, relax, meditate, play, and recharge your physical and emotional batteries.
I am hoping that this article sparks something for you. It has been a long winter, and many of us are fed up with all this damn SNOW! You have some vacation days that you know are going to just sit there, and it is starting to get warm, but what if you could launch yourself into summer with a quick getaway.
Of course, there are so many Caribbean islands to choose from. Regardless
Caribbean culture is one of hospitality and warmth. The people love to have fun and take pride in their unique traditional customs. Many of them will be more than happy to teach you a few words in their native languages, and even share some of their personal anecdotes.
As I lay in my bed staring outside my window, the snow, all that snow just made me want to shut my eyes and disappear. As I lay there, I was brought back to the last island that I visited, the beautiful islands of Antigua and Barbuda.
The one thing that I remember is that Antigua had hundreds of beaches, from the bustling Pigeon Point to the kitesurfing paradise of Jabberwock Beach. The best thing about it is that Antigua can be driven around more than a few times in a single day, so if you are like me and you are tired of Toronto traffic, Antigua is the perfect stress-free experience. You are only ever really 45 minutes away at most from
When you’re tired of sun and sand you can shoot ‘em up at Reservoir Range, where archery and air pistols are a fun way to work out any lingering pre-vacation stress. A tour of the Antigua Distillery is a spirited way to experience a true taste of the island, and for those who want to try something a little different, you can share in the experience I had; a swim with stingrays at Stingray City Antigua. FULL STOP!
“Did you just say swim with stingrays Simone? Didn’t the Crocodile Hunter get killed off by a stingray?”
Yes, he did, and yes, I actually fought my fears and went swimming with stingrays.
When we arrived at Stingray City, the experience started with our guides briefing us about the Southern Rays. We then took a scenic 5-minute speedboat ride between Antigua’s offshore islands, and we were dropped off at a shallow stingray pool.
All I remember was looking down at the white sand bottom surrounded by coral reef; the water was so blue. We were all encouraged to come off the boat and stand in the water. I sat there for a minute as the realness of the situation set in. What the hell was I doing? Swimming with sting-
I drummed up the nerve and stepped in the water. The Stingrays were not enclosed, and it seemed like intuitively, the stingrays knew that we were there. All of a sudden, I saw something brown move by my leg; then there was another one; then there were multiples. I stood there frozen trying to look cook, but screaming “Take me now,” in my head.
One brushed my leg and I screamed. “Don’t worry,” the guide said soothingly, “They won’t hurt you. Remember to stay away from the tip of the ray, and you will be fine.”
“Easy for you to say,” I thought to myself. He was used to this, I was close to pissing in this clear, blue water.
After about five minutes, I began to loosen up. These were friendly stingrays; they would just swim by you, but not bother you. I heard our guide offer the opportunity to hold, feed and interact with stingrays. A lot of people were like, “Ummmm, no!”
My rebellious, spontaneous self was like, “Yes, let me try that.”
Hands down the most exhilarating experience of my life.
As I opened my eyes, I smiled. It was time to book another trip, and Antigua is at the top of my list.
been reported, and we apologize for the impact it has had on the student and their family.”
Media attention has focused on allegations of anti-Black racism at John Fisher Junior Public School located in the Eglinton/Yonge St area.
The TDSB was informed on Thursday, March 2nd, of anti-Black racist incidents at John Fisher P.S. Ryan Bird, Spokesperson for the TDSB stated on Monday, Tuesday 6th, “No child should experience what has
Faridah, a PhD student and mother of three children, reported that her six-yearold Black son experienced months of antiBlack racism without nothing being done until the advocacy group, Parents of Black Children (PoBC) intervened. Faridah states, “I felt drained and confused, and you begin to doubt your child for no reason. Up to that point, I was dealing with this alone.” Faridah told PoBC that Jane Wadden, Principal of the school sometime during 2023, locked up her son in a room.
Faridah’s son is the only Black student in the grade one class out of about 30 students. He was sent to a tiny room for half an hour on January 31st, where he was unsupervised allegedly to prevent him from
communicating with another student. This was documented by her using a hidden recording device that she placed on her son. Faridah was under the impression that her son hit another student and was sent to the office as a punishment. She mentioned that he hit the boy unintentionally.
Faridah is a new immigrant to Canada who is still in the process of adjusting to a new country. Faridah felt that she had no choice but to resort to using the hidden recording device after months of failure of the school administrators to respond to her concerns about on-going racial incidents.
In response to the revelations on Thursday, March 2nd, the TDSB decided to launch an investigation. The Principal, Jane Wadden, Vice-Principal, Dori Antolin, and the boy’s teacher have been placed on home assignment. Ryan Bird states, “We are
working to complete this investigation as soon as possible and will support the student and their family in any way we can.”
PoBC reported on Tuesday, March 7th, that two additional Black parents have told them that their children have also experienced similar racial incidents at the school, and that they are examining details about their stories. A petition has circulated by parents of students in the school expressing support for the teacher who was sent home. There have been 80 signatures obtained so far from parents, although it has not been formally presented to the TDSB as yet.
The Ontario Principal’s Council (OPC) tweeted, “We are concerned about the negative and one-sided media coverage aimed at educators involved in investigations, who can’t comment publicly while the matter is under review.”
Strength, stamina, and skill, facing off in a variety of physical challenges designed to push you to your limits.
The ultimate in teamwork, determination, and guts as you battle it out for the title of Canada’s Ultimate Champion.
A competition structured in a way that showcases thrilling solo, tandem, and team challenges that test your mental and physical endurance.
When you’re excited, afraid, or emotionally charged, your body produces the hormone adrenaline. When released into your blood, this hormone: increases your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing rate, which can sharpen your senses and give you a boost of energy.
If you’re drawn to activities that provoke thrilling sensations and a rush of adrenaline, then the brand-new competition series, Canada’s Ultimate Challenge, premiered on February 16th, 2023, on CBC and CBC Gem, and you are just in time to get caught up with all the action.
Consisting of eight one-hour episodes, Canada’s Ultimate Challenge is a one-of-a-kind competition featuring six exceptional coaches who will train and support regular Canadians as they face challenging physical tasks at various iconic locations throughout Canada. This show turns the entire country into a giant obstacle course. Over the last few weeks, six extraordinary coaches have guided and mentored teams of everyday Canadians into facing fears, and tapping into their inner strengths in ways that you would not find in ANY other competition.
The coaches include: sprinting legend and two-time Olympic champion, Donovan Bailey; Mohawk Olympian in water polo and advocate for Indigenous sport, Waneek Horn-Miller; six-time Olympic medallist in cycling and speed skating, Clara Hughes; three-time Olympic speed skater Gilmore Junio; former captain of Canada’s Olympic bronze medal-winning rugby sevens team, Jen Kish; and NFL Super Bowl Champion and competitive cyclist, Luke Willson.
Throughout the eight-episode series, the superstar Canadian coaches have had to make strategic decisions that
motivate their players to victory. From one coast to another, Canada has been transformed into an intricate obstacle course. The excitement commences in Whistler, BC, where the teams collaborated to take part in an obstacle relay race that lead to the top of the Whistler Olympic Park Ski Jump.
In Kelowna, BC, the teams were tasked with pulling an airplane as fast as possible down a runway. At the Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City, players rappelled down the outside of the historic castle hotel and onto the charming streets of Old Quebec. Finally, at Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park in New Brunswick, tandem teams work together to push a sled through the world-famous Bay of Fundy mud flats.
I was happy to see that there was Caribbean representation, and coaching one of the teams is the one and only Donovan Bailey.
Donovan Bailey is one of the world’s all-time greatest and most dominant sprinting legends. Track and Field News named Bailey Sprinter of the Decade (90’s), and he is the first man in history to be: world champion, Olympic champion and world record holder at the same time. In 1996 he held the fastest top speed ever recorded in history at 27.07 mph, a speed only surpassed by Usain Bolt. Donovan also broke the indoor 50-metre world record in a time of 5.56 seconds, a record that still stands today.
Since retirement in 2001, he has worked as a commentator for CBC, CTV and Eurosport. He happens to be one of the only Canadian athletes to be inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame twice, and most recently was the recipient of the Order of Canada.
I initially met with Donovan at the CBC launch of their series for 2023, and after sharing some words of wisdom with me; we arranged to speak about his involvement in the show. We connected again last week, and he shared a little of his story with me. I am not going to go into great detail, but I will share a little secret with you; there is some HUGE news coming from the Bailey camp this summer, so stay tuned for that.
To start, he shared a little bit of his life with me.
“I was born in Manchester, Jamaica, and I am a country boy at heart. I travelled back and forth to Canada from the age of seven, so I was very familiar with the country. I moved to Canada when I was 11 years old, and ended up settling in Oakville, Ontario.
As you know Simone, West Indian parents are focused on their child’s academic performance, but I was an athlete.
When I was in Jamaica, I was the fastest child in my area. I went to CHAMPS and did very well. When I left Jamaica, I was the fastest athlete in my age group. My dad wanted me to be a lawyer, and my mom; well, she wanted what was best for me. I was a momma’s boy. My mom knew I was going to be successful in whatever I chose to do.”
The rest is history, a legacy that has propelled him into other ventures.
“I retired in 2001 and have been working as a sports analyst since 2001. One of the executive producers on CBC pulled me aside one day, and said they had a show that I would be a great fit for. I saw the concept behind Canada’s Ultimate Challenge, and I knew some of the people who would be working on the show with me. I liked the idea, so I was game.”
On the show, Donovan was the host of Team Red, a team comprised of:
• Dilpreet Bhattal, 31, a Personal Trainer and Fitness Instructor from Toronto, Ontario
• Lori Campbell, 50, a University Associate, and Vice-President from Regina, SK
• Chris Cederstand, 42, an athlete, Public Speaker, and Fire Fighter from Okotoks, AB
• Franz Wellington, 52, a Lifestyle and Fitness Coach from Toronto, On
“Getting to know the athletes peeled back a whole different layer on this competition,” Donovan tells me. “Chris was an incredible leader. I would tell the team what I wanted, and he would help lead the team.
Lori was the most mentally strong person on the team, and Coach France was the most athletic person on the entire show. Dilpreet probably should have been the star of the show. She went against everything in her culture to do everything she wanted. All the athletes were just amazing human beings.
It was a great competition show, the only thing; there wasn’t enough diversity. I would love to see that. I am hoping that we get a second season, and I want to see more of our Caribbean athletes out there showing their greatness. This is your time to shine. One of the most exciting perks was that I was able to see parts of Canada that I have never seen before. It is definitely an experience of a lifetime.”
It’s not too late; you can watch Canada’s Ultimate Challenge on Thursdays at 8 p.m. on CBC and CBC Gem. In the end, only one team will win CANADA’S ULTIMATE CHALLENGE!
The ultimate in teamwork, determination, and guts; Jamaica’s own Donovan Bailey signs on to be coach on Canada’s Ultimate Challenge
fact is that venture-fund managers and angel investors are less likely to support Black businesses.
The good news is, there is HOPE, but we must ACT, take CHARGE and be PURPOSEFUL!
and equip the BIPOC community with the knowledge, capacity, networks and connections to be stronger economic participants and thereby increase their wealth and financial position.”
Let’s face it; we are dealing with tough economic times. Many are searching to find shining examples they can aspire to, and surrounding themselves with positive, like-minded individuals that inspire them. Brothers Who Care’s initiative LEGUP Secure Our Wealth could be just what you are looking for.
You see, the problem is, we live and work in systems that have not been designed to be diverse, equitable, inclusive and accessible. The wealth gap continues to fuel Canada’s race-based economic disparities; Black entrepreneurs are less able to rely on their family, friends, or their own personal capital when attempting to realize an innovative vision. A gap exists when it comes to Black start-up and entrepreneurial ventures; an unfortunate
Brothers Who Care is a registered Canadian Non-Profit committed to changing the: social, financial and psychological health of the black community through stories, images and engagement. Their quarterly events leverage the power of collective fundraising to support charities whose work impacts key issues affecting the Black community. SHARE! LEARN! ACT!
I have actively been engaged with Brothers Who Care over the last couple of years. I saw the passion and dedication that David Griffiths had for his community, and more specifically his brothers.
“The work at BwC is foundationally rooted in institutions, governments and business, partnering with non-profits to make quick, swift and measurable actions,” shares David Griffiths, Founder of Brothers Who Care. “When we talk about racism and diversity, we acknowledge the dependency on the economy and capitalist society. We are on a quest to increase awareness of wealth inequality in Canada
It is all good to want to make a change, and then there is the action of actually doing it.
Now Canada, On March 24th, 2023, at the Marriott Eaton Centre Brothers Who Care with the support of: TD Bank Group, Y.A.A.A.C.E., Longo’s, Starlight Capital, LifeWorks, Bridge2Wellbeing, Black Enterprise Alliance, and YSpace (York University) bring to Toronto, the LEG-UP Wealth Symposium.
This 1-day fun filled event will bring over: 250 Professionals, Impact Investors, Wealth Managers, Corporations, Entrepreneurs & Non-profits, collaborating to get a LEG UP on their wealth mindset. The day’s activities will be focused on the LEG-UP acronym: Learn - Earn - GrowUtilize - and deep diving into the Psychology of Money.
Over the past six months, a selected group of talented individuals have been participating in a mastermind group to get a LEG-UP on their mindset and crush their financial goals.
“Our program inspires a focus on: impact investing, imploring wealth managers, corporations, entrepreneurs and non-profits developing innovative solutions to the racial-wealth gap upheld through generational trauma,” David explained emphatically. “Embracing the United Nations SDGs, we are creating a base for happier and healthier people, more equitable societies and more resilient economies. We are breaking negative generational cycles when it comes to financial behaviour, increasing financial health and working towards creating generational wealth.”
So, are you looking to make that next power move? Make connections? Start a business? Make more money? Get promoted? This is where you want to be! You can find your tickets can be at https:// legupwealth.com/symposium
Interested in becoming part of the Brothers Who Care movement? They would love to hear from you. Subscribe to their newsletter at info@brotherswhocare. com, or you can follow them on Instagram: @canbwc, or Facebook: @brotherswhocare.ca. For more information on their program visit https://brotherswhocare.com
In a letter to the editor of the Journal of Paris in 1784, Benjamin Franklin wrote, “Early to bed, and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.” In his advocacy for people to wake up and leverage the day, Franklin joked there should be a tax on window shutters, candles should be rationed, and canons should be fired at sunrise!
It was the small town of Port Arthur in northern Ontario that first changed the clocks by enactment on July 1st, 1908.
In recent times, one of the main arguments for shifting the time to align with the sun focuses on energy savings
during evening hours, but dozens of studies have shown the effect to be negligible.
Now, the health implications of Daylight Savings Time (DST) are becoming the hot topic, with researchers investigating its impact on everything from sleep patterns to heart health.
The effect of DST on sleep is significant. Numerous studies have found the time change can disrupt our sleep patterns, leading to sleep deprivation and increased fatigue. This is particularly true in spring, when we lose an hour of sleep and our bodies struggle to adjust to the new schedule.
The time change and associated disruption to sleep patterns can have more serious health consequences. One study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that the risk of heart attacks increased by 25% on the Monday following the springtime change. This is powerful evidence that disturbed sleep patterns can be highly stressful on the cardiovascular system.
Mental health can be another
victim. One study published in Sleep Medicine found the springtime change was associated with increased symptoms of depression, particularly in people who already had a history of depression. The study’s findings further suggested that the disruption to sleep patterns might even trigger the onset of depressive symptoms.
One strategy to mitigate these problems is to adjust sleep patterns leading up to the time change. For those observing a regular night-time routine, this means going to bed and waking up 15 minutes earlier each day in the week leading up to the change. Even for those without a firm pattern, making the effort to shift forward in advance – both physically and mentally – should help.
Another strategy is to prioritize good sleep. Create a comfortable sleep environment, establish a regular sleep schedule, and avoid caffeine and alcohol in the hours leading up to bedtime.
Are you tired of the debate about DST? Worse, are you “tired all the time”? You may need to take a closer look at the
benefits of getting a good sleep. Sleep scientists can present compelling evidence showing how being tired leads to increased risk of traffic accidents, for example. Studies also link poor sleep with: obesity, diabetes, cancer and dementia. Abnormal sleep and psychiatric conditions go hand in glove.
Don’t forget the function of sleep as a sort of garbage collection system. During sleep, the body rejuvenates the brain by sorting “keeper” information from “trash”. Sleep also helps the body clear out and clean up waste in the cardiovascular system while refuelling immune function.
If there is a good argument in favour of DST, it might be Franklin’s suggestion to fire a canon each morning at sunrise. That would surely get people on their feet and outside to take a look. An early morning experience in the outdoors – whether it is a walk or even just a few moments of quiet contemplate about the new day – is an excellent step to good health.
In Canada, the Corrections and Conditional Release Act (CCRA) limits strip searches to situations in which the inmate has been in a place where there was a likelihood of access to contraband. According to these inmates involved in this class action lawsuit these guidelines were ignored.
What’s been happening is this: the defendants were regularly subjected to strip searches in four situations that do not meet this prerequisite:
(1) When leaving prison
this is believed to be authorized by the regulations, it is contrary to the CCRA).
This is the first strip search class action certified in Ontario, and what’s worse is that the lawsuit asserts that the federal government illegally strip searched the class members in violation of its laws over half a million times.
The plaintiffs are seeking to end these illegal strip searches, and secure compensation and other remedies for all involved inmates.
Kent Elson, co-counsel for the class, said: “This decision is a wake-up call for prisons because it shows they can be held accountable for illegal strip searches.” He also noted that illegal strip searches make the public less safe. “Far too often, people come out of prison more traumatized and less able to cope in society. They need support, not traumatizing illegal strip searches.”
This class action suit zooms in on strip searches in situations where they are illegal and unnecessary, such as suspicion, less strip searches upon release from prison.
It is for this same reason in 2001, the Supreme Court of Canada called strip searches, “One of the most extreme exercises
of police power,” and “Inherently humiliating and degrading.” Federal legislation restricts when these highly invasive searches can take place – restrictions that have not been followed within Canada’s prisons.
Canada’s Superior Court ruled in the plaintiff’s favour on all points in the certification motion. The Court also held that the case would promote access to justice for prisoners and noted the evidence that prisoners face several barriers to accessing justice, including difficulties interacting with people outside of the prison, and fear of backlash from prison staff.
Prisoners experience high levels of poverty, lower levels of educational achievement, and high rates of mental health diagnoses and disabilities.
The Court also noted the evidence presented in the case that, “Over 70% of federal prisoners have a mental health disorder” and “Indigenous people are over six times more likely than the rest of the Canadian population to be incarcerated in a federal prison followed by Black Canadians who are three times more likely.”
Michael Farrell, one of the two class representatives, and a 53-year-old father and
grandfather said, “It is so awful to be forced to strip naked, bend over, and let people inspect every inch and crevice of your naked body. It’s worse when you know it is unnecessary.”
Kim Major, the other class representative, is a 57-year-old mother of four. She said, “When I’m strip-searched, I relive the horrors of sexual abuse I’ve suffered. It is truly devastating, especially for many women.” Kim was first imprisoned in her 50s. “I was raised in a great home and had a good career before my life went south. This could happen to you or your kids, you never know.”
Abby Deshman is the co-counsel, and explained, “Strip searches are inherently humiliating and degrading. Forcing a person to strip naked and expose himself or herself for inspection is an incredible intrusion on a person’s liberty and an affront to their dignity. This decision affirms that prisoners have constitutional rights and that the rule of law must run within prison walls.”
This class action was made possible in conjunction with the Canadian Civil Liberties Association, which has long fought for the civil liberties of Canadian prisoners.
derstanding what it means like to struggle, and the impoverished facing the looming face of poverty. Poverty is said to exist when people lack the means to satisfy their basic needs. Poverty has existed historically, striking down many: economically, socially and politically. Poverty is a killer as well. More than 45,000 people in America die each year because they have no access to healthcare, or because the healthcare they receive is substandard due to their inability to pay.
Why does poverty exist in this age? There are many reasons, but ultimately poverty exists because it benefits those that are not impoverished. Like scrooge would say, “if not for poverty, where could we find people to work for lower wages? How can we be competitive and make profits unless there are employees willing to simply work for whatever benefit we will pay them.” Miners in Canada make an average wage of $45-60.00 an hour. In South Africa that wage is $6.90 per hour. Those who are unskilled make far less, with sporadic hours offered.
What if you live in a community where employment is non-existent? Some would say go find a job elsewhere, but if you are poor, with no bank account or credit at
hand, have no vehicle, or gas to fill the tank, how and why would you even try to find a job elsewhere? You are stuck in poverty. The cycle of poverty has absorbed that person, their family, friends and community into a cyclone of: destruction, oppression and fear.
At the present moment many firms are desperate for employees, as there is a deficiency of available personnel throughout North America. So a firm who once paid $12.00 hourly is willing to pay $15.00-18.00 an hour in order to fill their labour needs. Why would such firms not pay their employees a living wage to begin with? How about offering health insurance, education benefits and a 40-hour work week too?
Business does what business needs, not what society believes they should do. To a business, making profit, and getting labour to do what’s needed at a lower wage makes business sense. Not every business has the foresight of a Henry Ford, who paid his employees well so they could also become the firm’s customers and show their community what it’s like to own a Ford vehicle. Pay your employee’s well, and they will work diligently in return?
Poverty is a weapon that keeps giv-
ing capitalism its powerful hold upon most of the world. As poverty grows internationally business offers the poor an answer to their condition: jobs and hope for a better future. If business and industry, whether Western or Communist Chinese, wanted to truly contribute to a healthy economy and thriving communities, they would value the people they call employees by paying them a wage that not only allows them to survive but also enables them to thrive. Do businesses think beyond their profit points and what the shareholders return will be?
When we all should be having a transformative discussion surrounding living wages and valuing workers, we face business associations and their political mouth pieces attacking people who choose to stay at home instead of working for poverty wages.
Our society marches towards greater social and economic extremes with no real commonality to bring us together. What is the value of a life? Imagine what could be accomplished if all citizens have a chance, just a chance to walk and talk in equality before their peers?
PAUL JUNOR
paul@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
There are great things about Saint Lucia that make it a favourite travel location in the Caribbean. Saint Lucia is one of the Windward Islands in the Lesser Antilles and can be found midway down the eastern Caribbean archipelago. It is known as the “Helen of the West Indies” and its unique mountains, specifically Pitcoin Mountains, have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the presence of a tropical rainforest and a drive-in volcano. These as well as the lovely beaches are powerful attractions.
In order to ensure that visitors to
Saint Lucia enjoy a simple and easy entry, a press release revealed that an online Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) form would be introduced starting March 1st, 2023. This will ensure that there is a seamless entry process that will enable travellers to be electronically processed. This has been largely done due to the work of: the Department of Immigration, Border Control and Customs of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Justice and National Security, The Ministry of Health, The Organization of Eastern Caribbean States, Saint Lucia Air & Sea Ports, The Prime Minister’s Development Unit (PMDU) and the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA).
The change from a written form to an online ED form was funded by the 11th European Development Fund and delivered by the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). This online ED form reflects other changes that are being made by the Government of Saint Lucia that will involve a digital conversion of public sector service. The press release outlines this as a positive step towards the continued improvement of
the island’s operational competencies and simplicity of conducting business.
There is hope that the transition to this electronic online ED form will decrease the processing time of travellers to Saint Lucia that will be arriving at the George F.L Charles Airport (SLU), and the Hewanorra International Airport (UVF). Only those travellers who are traveling by air will have to complete the ED form, and it is not necessary for boarding. It will make the process smoother if incoming passengers submit the form before reaching Saint Lucia. Failure to do this will require the completion of the written form, which will be given by the airline or upon arrival in Saint Lucia.
The simple four-step process that travellers must complete involve the following:
• Visit website: www.stlucia.org/entry
• Complete and submit the user-friendly ED form
• Receive a QR code by email
• Present the QR code on a device such as:
a phone, laptop, tablet etc., or a printed copy and travel document (passport) to officials on arrival
Sean Alexander, Assistant Superintendent in Charge of the Department of Immigration states in the press release, “We continuously strive to secure our borders and provide quality service to travellers at our points of entry while protecting the safety and security of our nationals, visitors, and business associates with a reliable immigration system. In advancing our seamless entry process, the written form will be phased out as of April 12th, 2023.”
One of the most exciting events coming up in Saint Lucia is the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival between May 5th -14th, 2023. As a premier jazz and arts event, it will feature: Sting, the 17-time Grammy award singer, Shaggy, the reggae/dancehall icon, Ronald Boo Hinkson, Barbara Cadet, Teddyson John, and other artists.
Poverty is a weapon that keeps giving capitalism its powerful hold upon most of the world
simone@carib101.com
In recent decades, young people are turning towards careers in more “glamorous” or white-collar fields, most wanting to be the next Instagram, or TikTok sensation. However, the pandemic has led to a renewed interest in the trades, and a recognition of their critical importance.
Skilled trades, such as carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work, have long been the backbone of society, providing essential services and maintaining the infrastructure that keeps our communities functioning, and providing entrepreneurial opportunities for individuals who are tactile learners.
What the pandemic highlighted was the vulnerability of supply chains and the importance of having a robust local workforce that can respond to unexpected events. This led to a renewed focus on local and regional economies, and a recognition of the value of having a diverse range of industries and skill
sets. One of the biggest issues is the perception of the trades as being “less than” or somehow “less important” than other careers, a damaging and unfair stereotype that a proactive organization has decided that they want to challenge.
The Dream Legacy Foundation has partnered with: the University of Toronto, Basketball Canada, Access to Success, Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Suppliers Council, Shopify, Ryerson University, Scale with Borders, Jumpstart (Refugee Talent), BNN Bloomberg, DMZ, Centre for Indigenous Innovation and Technology, Brothers Who Care, and the Carpenters District Council of Ontario to bring to Toronto The Black Entrepreneurship and Skill Trades ( B.E.S.T) Program, a program designed to prepare the next generation of Black identified entrepreneurs, and young business leaders.
Dream Legacy Foundation was established in 2016 to encourage philanthropy across Canada. Since their genesis, they have raised over +$2 million dollars for causes such as: housing, cultural identity, research, health, economic inclusion, and education among the Black community. They are dedicated to fostering social and economic empowerment of the Black community across Canada with their key core focus areas in cultural identity, economic inclusion, housing, health, education and research.
The team at Dream Legacy Foundation identified that the reemergence of
the skilled trades was also being driven by changes in the labor market. With unemployment rates still high in many countries, people are looking for new career opportunities. The skilled trades offer a path to a good-paying job with a clear career progression and long-term security. The diverse program streams include automotive, culinary, hospitality, construction, and service. It has become an indisputable fact that by investing in the skilled trades, communities can become more resilient, and better prepared for future challenges.
Ontario Tech University and Dream Legacy Foundation will carefully screen each application to ensure that participants are fit for the modules and training, and the first 500 students to complete the modules and pitch receive a micro-credential and Digital Certificate of Completion. A micro-credential is a digitally recorded recognition of a small, specific skill. It represents evidence of your skills for employers, educators, and peers. Micro-credentials are created with industry, so you can be assured that the skills you are learning are in demand and current.
Dream Legacy Foundation will be hosting a series of information sessions and they are inviting YOU to join them. The B.E.S.T Foundation Program is a series of customized modules and training specifically designed to guide aspiring entrepreneurs through the steps of creating a business in the Skilled Trades industry. If you are an aspiring entrepreneur, the sessions will provide you with
specific details about the program and will allow you to meet the team!
An intricately designed program of this capacity would not be possible without significant funding efforts that were provided by: Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, The Government of Canada, Ontario Tech University, and Brilliant Catalyst.
The Dream Legacy Foundation has taken it a step further by partnering with Brothers Who Care to GIVEAWAY 20 tickets (to the first 20 applicants) to attend the LEGUP Wealth Symposium, a 1-day fun filled event that is bringing over: 250 Professionals, Impact Investors, Wealth Managers, Corporations, Entrepreneurs & Nonprofits, collaborating to get a LEG UP on their wealth mindset. The day’s activities will be focused on the LEG-UP acronym: Learn - Earn - GrowUtilize - and deep diving into the Psychology of Money.
Think you have what it takes?
They are looking for applicants who are passionate about taking their business to the next level. Successful candidates must possess an entrepreneurial mindset, as well as a commitment to learn more.
Program requirements must be completed by March 31st, 2023. Please review their Application Page or contact them at info@dreamlegacy.org.
in Canada’s Reggae world.
Treson, who is one of the lead vocalists and a Juno nominee, is a soulful singer. As one listens to The Human Rights, he or she can certainly hear a touch of some of the Reggae greats, like Maxi Priest, Dennis “Crown Prince” Brown, and Barrington Levy, yet this band is unique. This band has been around performing at major Toronto venues including Roy Thomson Hall, the Sound Academy, and Harbour Front Centre, as well as major stages across Canada such as the Calgary Reggae Festival.
Canadian-based Reggae band “The Human Rights” will be on tour in March to promote their EP ‘Reggae Strong.’
This 11-track disc captures the Reggae feeling of Jamaica and the Caribbean and fuses it with life and the rat race of living in Canada.
“Reggae Strong” is the lead single and “When She’s Gone,” is the second one, I must say that after listening to them that both singles are gems in their own right. The nine-piece band has been belting out rhythms of the islands since 2007 and still going strong.
The band’s principle of giving the audiences a taste of home-cooked Reggae has made them a force to be reckoned with
The band’s music has become anthems on Reggae radio shows everywhere, and on CBC programs like Big City, and Small World, while fans of the Trailer Park Boys will know them for their version of the Trailer Park Boys theme song featured in the movie Don’t Legalize It.
The Human Rights has once more proven that they can hold the reigns and the standard since releasing their 2016 self-titled album, and the 2018 single “I Need You.” This band is worth listening to, and one to watch for a very long time.
I was privileged to speak with one of the lead vocalists of The Human Rights band “Frendlyness” and he is not just friendly, but
very knowledgeable in the field of music, especially Reggae.
“I’ve been doing Reggae in this city from way back in the eighties,” Frendlyness said. “I’ve played with groups like: Culture Shock, Hit Squad, Truths, and Rights, and I used to back up lots of artists here in Toronto.”
The Human Rights origins are as genuine as their music itself, Frendlyness described how the band came about and I was impressed.
“I was here in Toronto doing my day job, working a little vending booth on Queen Street when a guy walked up to me and said Hey, I know who you are, you are Frindlyness.”
Long story short, the guy was a musician himself and lived in a house surrounded by musicians, and the rest is history.
I asked Frendlyness to explain the single from their album Called “Reggae Strong” and these were his words.
“It was just a thought that I had a feeling I was having at the time and what was going on, a feeling of weakness, but then I said Nuh man, Reggae Strong, Nuh ramp wid the thing. There is Reggae with some negative message, but we check for the positive
one.”
Another massive track on this album from The Human Rights is one called “Peace Gun” this track set me thinking until I listened and realized that the real gun spoken about in the song is called a “Peace Gun” with which the user can solve all problems. This is a must-listen for serious Reggae fans.
The band is very active in promoting positivity all over the country and has teamed up with Amnesty International on projects as well. As we speak The Human Rights is now in the process of working on getting ready for a few US appearances.
For all interested in catching a live performance of The Human Rights, their Canadian tour kick-off dates are.
March 18th, 2023 in Owen Sound, March 25th, 2023 in Sarnia, March 30th, 2023 in Ottawa, March 31st, 2023 in Montreal, April 1st, 2023 in Peterborough, April 15th, 2023 in Stratford, April 20th, 2023 in Waterloo and April,21st, 2023 in Toronto.
With works and influences from greats like Patric McGroarty, Canadian reggae artist Dubmatix, Reggae Strong Ras Yunchie, Caddy Cad, Isax, and Carol Brown it is safe to say that this band has Canadian Reggae greatness written all over its footprints.
In the fall of 2022, extremely talented photographer, Bradley Fenton, also known as Coopz, told his brother Brandon that before the end of the year he was going to go on tour with an artist to take photos. The opportunity wasn’t being offered yet, but he was speaking it into existence.
Coopz is a Toronto based photographer who grew up in Mississauga. He’s shot at music festivals in the states and in Toronto for a few years. Some of the trailblazing international artists he has photos of are: Coi Leray, Burna Boy, A Boogie with a Hoodie, and Shenseea. He has also taken photos of local trailblazers including DJ Rosegold, WondaGurl, Pressa, and Savannah Re. One of the first photos on his Instagram is of the infamous producer, DJ Khaled, which he took in Miami in 2017.
Coopz recalls when he was asked to go on tour in America with Toronto superstars, Leila Dey and Jessie Reyez for the month of November.
“I got invited to shoot the celebrity basketball game that happened in Toronto in October last year. I was doing all the headshots for all the local celebrities that were invited. I saw Leila Dey’s manager. He came up to me, and said he wanted to talk to me after. I was wondering what was going on. And he’s like, yeah, Leila is about to go on tour, and we want you to come with us and be our photographer and videographer.”
The Mississauga photographer couldn’t believe it.
“Same day I called my brother. I’m like, yo! You’ll never believe what just happened. I just got asked to go on tour. So, I was really excited. I was wandering around. It was unbelievable.”
The Mississauga native has been taking photos since he was in grade nine. He also has a sharp business and creative mind.
“I went to a Catholic school; we had civvies day, days where you get to dress up in your actual clothes. I brought a point and shoot camera to school, and I started taking photos with everyone. They loved them and wanted to post on their Facebook — back then there was no Instagram.
For Christmas that year, my parents bought me my first DSLR camera, and ever since then I’ve been shooting with that Canon T3. I started taking photos every single day for people and started charging them $10. So, I was doing that in grade nine: shooting, making money, and already making a name for myself back in high school.”
Once Coopz was older, he started to do a lot of club photography, which is what helped him master how to use a flash. However, he didn’t want to be seen as just the club photographer.
“I wanted to get out of being a club photographer, because I felt like that hindered me a lot. When people see you as a photographer, in my opinion, I feel like they only want to book you for club
stuff. I obviously wanted to branch out and do more things: personal photography and flying, traveling to different cities to shoot people.”
To overcome this, he decided to rebrand himself.
“I started going and shooting more celebrities in LA and Miami, and being like their personal photographer and eventually I started making a name for myself. I started doing hosting’s, so people will come out and party with me. It wouldn’t be me taking photos in the club, it would be me networking and bringing people with me to the club and doing different events. I just built up my own brand and my own name, where it just holds a different type of weight.”
Coopz name definitely holds a different type of weight as he has travelled across America with the incredibly talented and beautiful R&B singer Leila Dey from Toronto, who was opening up for headliner and superstar from Toronto, Jessie Reyez. It is never a dull moment while on tour as the photographer is always working.
“You don’t have to worry about anything else. You have to worry about making sure Leila looks good. With the photos, get her constant photos, constant videos. You just know what your job is. It’s just constant non-stop. It’s just capturing the moments at the right time.”
Coopz also mentioned that being on tour with Jessie’s team felt like being on the road with one big family.
This year, the talented photographer has jumped into real estate and is being mentored by his brother.
“I just got my first property. That is what I’m going to be doing with my brother. He is going to be helping me buy and sell properties. I’m the youngest of four brothers, and all my brothers are heavily business minded people. I always have someone to look up to and ask questions to keep me learning.”
When he’s not learning something new, he’s manifesting the next huge tour he’ll go on. Some of the artists he’d love to go on tour with are Jack Harlow, Kehlani, Lil Baby, Chris Brown, GloRilla, 50 Cent or Ice Spice.
“I love the touring experience, so I’m itching to go back again,” said Coopz. Coopz also wanted to thank a good friend of his who has helped him for a long time.
“Shout out to DJ Rosegold because she has been helping me for a while, and always bringing me out and connecting me with people too.”
Written by Selina McCallum Toronto Caribbean NewsOur 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.
“It’s the turmeric scrub for me! I have noticed that it has evened out areas of hyperpigmentation and I highly recommend this.” ~ Halle
If you’re in the skincare industry in Canada, there is a lot of research that needs to be done to: keep you informed, help you make intelligent decisions; to recognise and profit from opportunity, and to remain resilient amidst market uncertainty.
Skincare products have surged in popularity, thanks to interest in natural and organic ingredients, as well as a thriving community on social media. It is the first time in a very long time that the skincare industry is growing faster than the makeup industry, and there are a number of factors that have contributed to the growth.
Women tend to be the primary consumers in the skincare industry, many adding anti-aging products to their skincare regimens, as they get older. Surprisingly, men are showing interest in skincare products, and in turn companies are launching new lines targeted at them.
With so much happening in the marketplace, there is greater scrutiny of product ingredients, which has led to demand for natural and organic skincare brands, now more than ever. New products and companies are launching at a dizzying pace, and right here in Toronto, there is a brand that is taking this market by storm.
“Amazing body butters, my skin felt immediately soft. Smells great, and you only need a small amount.” ~ Tammy Danielle Neilson is the Creative Director and Lead Formulator at Skin Envy Beauty Bar, a Canadian Black owned natural skin care company. In 2018, she began her research to learn all she could about skin care, natural ingredients, and all that goes into creating the very best in skin care products. It was a project born out of passion, and a never-ending drive to help people (particularly women) embrace, nourish and flaunt their natural skin tone. For years, Danielle tried every prescription and over the counter remedy with no avail. She decided to take matters into her own hands and create a solution with natural organic ingredients that restore and revive a person’s skin. She knew firsthand how plant-based ingredients could change someone’s life. She had experi-
enced the freedom of dealing with problematic skin without the need of products with harmful chemicals.
She is a passionate, qualified skincare formulator with certificates in natural skincare, and she has taken the time to educate herself turning her dream of owning a business into the revolutionary Skin Envy Beauty Bar.
I was introduced to her products through a friend, and I was impressed at her ability to niche her brand in the sea of beauty products found online. Great niches don’t just fall into your lap, they are carefully crafted. She has been able to appeal to a specific group of users, solving a specific problem. Her product aligns with her beliefs, her talents, her skills, and her values, and she has clearly done her research. Her products stand out because they are unique and distinctive.
As one of Canada’s known luxury brands, I wanted to speak with Danielle, learn a little more about SEBB, and delve into her passion for skin care.
“Interestingly enough Simone,” Danielle began. “I am what you would call a community worker. I work at a shelter with homeless people, specifically with men who come out of prison and need help transitioning back into society. I have a dedication to helping others, and my business has become an extension of this dedication.
I have had problematic skin since I was a child, and because of this I had a lot of insecurities. My challenges ranged from acne to dark spots; when I looked in the mirror, I didn’t like who I saw looking back at me. I hated my stretch marks (as most women do), and I knew that I wanted to do something, anything to help my self-confidence, feel better about myself.
Even though I do have a great career, I always wanted to work for myself, but I didn’t know how to do it. I am a mother with children, so I always had to work for someone. It was about putting food on the table, a roof over our heads, and ensuring that my children felt supported.”
Regardless of the challenges she faced, Danielle started her skin care journey. Her research led into project creation, and she began to share her creations with friends and family. Getting feedback from people helped her to target her audience, and provided guidance on what products she should sell, and where to focus her marketing efforts. She began to tap into this underserved niche, and became an expert on their needs, wants, and problems.
“I started with charcoal soap. Then I started getting into skin care, which led to Yoni Bars, and then I got into body butters.
Before I did a big launch of my products, I gave some of my friends and family a chance to sample it. It was their reactions that gave me valuable insight
on the viability of my product, and I was able to pivot and make changes without losing a lot of time and money.”
“I love Glow Girl Beauty Bar & Turmeric Mask! My skin is so beautiful, and I get so many compliments.” ~ Laura
“Glow Go Beauty soap was the first soap I made for my acne,” Danielle shares. “A question that I started to hear more and more was, ‘Why don’t you sell it?’ So, I started selling it and like that, the brand took off.
I want women to feel comfortable in their skin. I want to be very clear about something; my brand is not going to work overnight, it takes time. Using natural products takes time. I am always working on what I can do differently, or better than what everyone else is currently doing? An opportunity gap may exist in improving my product, in finding an untapped market, or even in marketing more creatively than my competitors.
All of my support has come from people who I don’t know, and I have a strong market in the United States. I am doing a lot more this year to let the community in Canada know that I am here to help them out with their skin care needs too.
I have a Pop-Up coming up on July 29th, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm at 2237 Dundas St West. I am excited to have people use my product because I know how much it has done for me.”
Danielle has created a special promo code for our Toronto Caribbean Newspaper readers. When you visit https://skinenvybeautybar.com/, enter Promo Code: tocarib to get a DISCOUNT on your first order.
There are numerous ways to practice self-care, but Skin Envy Beauty Bar can help you focus your efforts on improving skin health. It’s when you’re engaged in an activity, including washing, toning, and moisturizing your face or body, that you can get out of your head and focus on self-love and self-care.
It is all about self-love, and self-careMake up by: Beat By Teek on Instagram
Created by: Mélanie Olivier, sports nutritionist
INGREDIENTS
• 1/2 cup quick oats
• 1/2 cup skim milk powder
• 1/2 cup roasted sunflower seeds
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup maple syrup (preferably dark syrup for its robust flavour)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup coconut flakes
Servings: 16
INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup quick oats
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup maple sugar
• 1 1/2 cups sour cream
• Maple nuggets, to taste
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat the oven to 350 F.
2. In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda and baking powder. Mix in the oats.
3. In another bowl, beat the egg with the maple sugar. Add the sour cream.
4. Pour the dry mixture into the wet mixture.
5. Use a 50-gram ice cream scoop to portion the cookies onto a silicone baking sheet, spacing evenly.
6. Sprinkle each cookie with maple nuggets.
7. Bake for 15 minutes.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 8 to 12 cookies
Source: Maple from Canada
Created by: Patrice Plante, mixologist
1. Preheat the oven to 350 F.
2. Spray a 23-centimetre square baking dish with cooking spray or brush with vegetable oil.
3. In a food processor, combine the oats, skim milk, sunflower seeds, flour, maple syrup and eggs. Process until the mixture is almost smooth, about 10 seconds.
4. Stir in the cranberries, apricots and almonds. Pour into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with coconut flakes.
5. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the edges are golden and the centre is set.
Source: Maple from Canada
Nutritional information per square
Calories: ................ 130
Carbohydrates: 21 grams
Protein: 3 grams
Fat: 3 grams
Fibre: 1 gram
INGREDIENTS
• 75 millilitres white rum
• 1 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup (preferably amber syrup for its rich flavour)
• 2 cups frozen pineapple chunks
• 3/4 cup coconut milk
• For decoration, a paper umbrella and maple flakes or slice of pineapple
1. Put the first four ingredients into a food processor and blend at high speed for at least 60 seconds, until smooth. If too thick, dilute with a little water.
2. Pour into two of your favourite glasses.
3. Decorate with a paper umbrella and maple flakes or a slice of pineapple.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Source: Maple from Canada
People often ask me, “What’s my secret to a long and healthy life?” This week, I start my 100th trip around the sun. So I must acknowledge that Lady Luck has been on my side. But it’s not just good luck, or good genes. As a medical doctor, I learned early that the best way to stay healthy is to avoid getting sick. Doctors can occasionally work miracles, but these are rare, and you should not count on them as a strategy for a long and healthy life.
Your physical body is your only vehicle on this journey of life. It’s been said, “If
you don’t take care of your body, where are you going to live?”
So take this to heart. Rule #1 for good health and longevity is to follow a sound lifestyle starting early in life. And Rule #2 is, never forget rule #1.
Even so, problems can creep up. Over many years now, I’ve told readers to be wary of pharmaceutical drugs. When I suffered a heart attack at 74 years of age, I chose a high dose vitamin C regimen to combat build up of plaque in coronary arteries. Twenty-five years later, my ticker and cardiovascular system are still going.
Doctors advised me to take statins. They said I wouldn’t live 5 years without them. I prefer to focus on the fundamentals, not to treat the symptoms. So here is a sample of the common-sense ingredients for good health:
• Get regular exercise including aerobic and strength training to maintain physical and mental health.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid processed foods, sugar, salt, and excess alcohol.
• Manage stress using techniques that ease your mind, whether it is meditation and mindfulness, a workout, or a favourite comedy show.
• Sleep well, enabling the body and mind to rest and recharge.
• Schedule regular medical check-ups, especially to get access to screening tests that help identify and treat heath issues early on.
I have expressed frustration at times when people fail to do these simple things to protect their health, but I have also acknowledged that changing behaviours can be difficult.
So, I have argued that people should build simple and regular habits that promote good health. One of them is stepping on the bathroom scale everyday. It never lies.
On matters of another scale, it
confounds me greatly that humankind can be so cruel and misguided. War, pollution, and poverty are among the features of our social landscape that will condemn the chances of many people to reach a healthy old age, but I don’t know how to stop the madness.
In light of it all, there’s little chance of a healthy, long life if you are not happy. Enjoyable social connections with family and friends are undervalued among the determinants of health. The effects of laughter on physical and mental health haven’t been studied enough, but a life of laughter is good practice for old age, when for all its benefits, you also need coping mechanisms – and there is none better than a good laugh.
As I journey for my 100th trip around the sun, I would like to thank all my readers for your birthday greetings and especially for the feedback regarding how this column has occasionally been helpful to you. I always aim to write in a way that is both informative and thought provoking. And I am not done yet!
Your access to the latest alerts, media releases, crime statistics, podcasts and more.
RACHEL MARY RILEY
There are so many methods to lose weight quickly and keep it off. However, through my journey and continuous studying, I have discovered that losing weight naturally is one of the best natural ways to reach your goals, create a healthier lifestyle, and keep that weight off for good. In this article, I shed some light on some major ways to lose weight naturally. You don’t always have to use supplements to get in your
Juicing is like a combination of rich greens and fruits juiced together and you can have
it in the: morning, day or evening. Some folks replace their protein shakes with fresh squeezed juice, and some folks have it when they are intermittent fasting.
What is the difference between homemade juices and store bought juices?
According to research, “Store-bought juices can often be high in sugar and stripped of valuable nutrients like fibre and other phytochemicals,” (Pankonin). Juices made at home are often higher in fibre, and you can control the amount of added sugars or alternative sweeteners that you use.
If you don’t have time to make them yourself, it is recommended that you look for juices that are vegetable-based— think green juices, tomato, and other veggie juices. “These will generally be lower in calories, but still contain a lot of nutrients and hydration,” (The 15 Best Juices for Weight Loss, According to Nutritionists, n.d.).
9 Natural juices recommended for weight loss
• Blueberry green juice
Blueberries are the stars of this juice, which are packed with vitamin C, and anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that give them their gorgeous purple colour. This yummy juice also gets a fibre boost thanks to the almond or soy milk, mixed greens, banana, and pineapple (The 15 Best Juices for Weight Loss, According to Nutritionists, n.d).
• Beet, carrot, kale and carrot juice
“The Ginger is good for digestive health and the apple adds the right amount of sweetness,” (The 15 Best Juices for Weight Loss, According to Nutritionists, n.d).
• Berry beet juice
This sweet, fruity juice combines beets, strawberries, and raspberries with a bit of ice and water for a cold, fibre-packed juice that will help you stay hydrated (The 15 Best Juices for Weight Loss, According to Nutritionists, n.d).
• Watermelon raspberry juice
With just three ingredients, this juice is the easiest one to make and possibly the most refreshing, thanks to the lime juice and watermelon, plus fibre from each fruit (The 15 Best Juices for Weight Loss, According to Nutritionists, n.d).
Nutritionists, n.d).
• Morning green juice
This green juice has six ingredients that are all filled with fibre and flavour to help keep you full: celery, spinach, cucumber, green apple, mint leaves, and a tiny bit of fresh ginger (The 15 Best Juices for Weight Loss, According to Nutritionists, n.d).
• Kale, carrot and cucumber juice
“These vegetables contain a lot of fluid and fibre, which can be both hydrating and keep you satiated,” says Pankonin (The 15 Best Juices for Weight Loss, According to Nutritionists, n.d).
• Strawberry cucumber juice
Besides the strawberries and cucumber, this juice gets an extra punch of fibre thanks to carrots and apples (The 15 Best Juices for Weight Loss, According to Nutritionists, n.d).
• Wild blueberry chia fresca juice
“Boosting fibre intake is tied in many studies to positive outcomes with long-term weight management, so adding foods like chia seeds is a great way to make sure you’re getting your anti-inflammatory omega 3s, filling fibre, and satiating protein all in a delicious, low-sugar juice,” says Hultin.
“As above, so below; as within, so without. Whatever is going on inside of your head is going on inside of your body. Whatever is going on inside your body, is going on outside of your life”.
C.Freeman ElThis is the law of correspondence, an undisputed universal law that solidifies the fact that our thoughts come from our experiences and is the precursor to all functions and dysfunc-tions in the body. Although it is not so much a single thought, but rather recurring thought patterns, or a replaying of past experiences in the mind that can have a negative impact on the physical body.
The pain or trauma from an emotional event can linger in our hearts and minds. A car acci-dent, a death, a bad break up, sexual trauma or even a particular experience that shifted the way you felt about yourself can sit with us for years. People are not always inclined to speak about their trauma, especially in the Caribbean. Boys are taught not to cry or express their emotions and girls are taught to stay in unhappy and abusive relationships for the sake of the children, and not bring shame on the family. This numbing emotional pain is then inter-nalized and manifests as headaches, nightmares, insomnia, stomach problems, anxiety and depression and last but not least, a serious illness. It’s like a scar that you cannot see but feel every day.
When we experience emotional trauma (or we make up painful stories in our mind), the cells of the brain react by forming a memory of that hurt (whether real or not). The more that memory is re -
played in the mind, the more energy is needed from the body to fuel it. Have you ever noticed how much energy it takes to be mad and angry? Low vibrational emotions are draining and tiring. Where do you think this mental energy that you are using to relive the trauma in your mind is coming from? It’s taken from your body, and in turn the body suf-fers from lack of energy and nutrients needed to sustain itself. This is how disease begins to form in the body. If you read my previous article titled Caribbean Killers, you will see how this correlates to chronic stress and its relation to 99% of disease. It all starts in the mind, which triggers an emotional stressor that eventually causes disease.
Many authors, particularly Louise L. Hay (who is one of my favourites) have written books like Heal your Body and You can Heal your Life. She talks about the mental causes of phys-ical illness and the metaphysical ways to overcome them. Her solution is new thought pat-terns and revamped paradigms of the mind. For example, according to her extensive research, constipation is related to refusing to release old ideas, being stuck in the past or even being stingy. The corresponding affirmation is, “As I release the past, the new and fresh and vital enter. I allow life to flow through me.” So, it’s not so much the lack of fibre in your diet, it’s the thought of not being able to let go. If you can’t let go of the external crap, you cannot let go of the internal crap. You will hold on to what does not serve you within and without. This is the law of correspondence.
The power of the mind is not given the credit it deserves, yet it sits on the throne of every move we make, what happens to us, and ultimately the direction of our lives.
So, what’s going on with you? When was the last time you took inventory of your thoughts?
If you find pain, anger, resentment, shame or even sadness, you owe it to yourself to keep your mental house happy, so that your life can reflect the same.
• Green juice with spinach and apples
“Spinach and apples are high in fiber, which can be both nutritious and super filling,” says Pankonin (The 15 Best Juices for Weight Loss, According to
“The blueberries and fresh lime brighten up this antioxidant-rich juice,” (The 15 Best Juices for Weight Loss, According to Nutritionists, n.d).
Keep your mental house happy, so that your life can reflect the same
TRISHA SMITH trishas@carib101.com
SAKRED SYNERGI
I remember waking up on a serene Sunday morning, where I am greeted by the harmonious sounds of The Grace Thrillers filling the air, alongside the rhythmic clanging of dishes in the kitchen. The scents that follow, a tantalizing concoction of garlic, onions, and thyme, fill my nostrils with an air of contentment.
However, the true star of the show is my father’s magnificently crafted fried dumplings, coupled with perfectly fried slices of plantain. I would be mesmerized as I watched my father’s hands seamlessly form the simple dough by adding water in small increments. He would masterfully break off pieces of the dough, moulding and rounding each one into the most symmetrical discs, completing each with a thumbprint in the middle.
Next, he would slice plantains horizontally, patiently pan-frying each piece to perfection. I could hardly wait until I could pick up a piece and not burn my fingers so I could enjoy the sweet, buttery taste of greatness. This cherished memory with my father in the kitchen marked the beginning of my love for food, which unknowingly set me on a path toward culinary excellence.
During my time at Centennial, I seized every opportunity to participate in off-campus events. My conscious effort was to work with Black chefs as much as possible, as it was important for me to connect with them and be aware of their invaluable contributions to the industry. The more I connected with chefs, the more I realized the importance of creating a platform where they could express their stories freely.
Although I loved food, I knew that working in kitchens for the rest of my life wasn’t for me. I was certain, however, that I wanted to speak with multiple Black chefs and give them the recognition they deserved for their hard work. I recorded a few podcast episodes after taking Food Media, but graduating
amidst the height of the Covid pandemic plunged me into depression. I constantly questioned my choices and wondered if I was supposed to be in the culinary industry at all. But no matter how many times I tried to leave, something always drew me back to the kitchen, reaffirming my calling.
As a firm believer in the notion that everything happens for a reason, I attended a concert celebrating the life of Bob Marley in February, despite my desire to stay at home. There, I met Simone, and our beautiful conversation led me to confide in her about my aspirations of entering the media side of food. Without hesitation, she encouraged me to pursue my dreams, and I knew that our meeting was divinely orchestrated, marking the beginning of my journey into food journalism.
Being acknowledged and appreciated for whom you are and the magic you bring to the table is nothing short of phenomenal and inspiring. It revitalizes your confidence, reminding you of your worth. Simone, my culinary and food media teachers, helped reignite my passion for food, and it’s time for me to be proud of my accomplishments and stop second-guessing myself. It’s challenging to believe in your worth when you’ve spent much of your life being made to feel the opposite. But at some point, you have to learn to value your own opinion and make use of the resources at your disposal to carve your own path.
My love for food, travel, people, and learning has led me to find my sweet spot, and I am excited to embark on this new chapter in my life. My goal is to showcase the multifaceted world of culinary through the lens of a Black chef while being in a White, male-dominated industry. Culinary is an art, and for me, it’s the medium of my expression. Welcome to Delicious Conversation!
sydnee@carib101.com
VARIETY CORNER
While people continue to love and show appreciation towards their relatives, some
The comment discusses how dangerous it can be when one does not hold their loved ones accountable for their wrongs, because they think their family can do no wrong.
This issue has been around for a very long time, but it’s great to see people are willing to shed light on this issue, because it can help others understand the importance of holding a relative accountable for their wrongdoings and see why there is nothing wrong with doing so.
When someone has relatives who don’t call them out on their wrongs, it can lead to them being in for a rude awakening.
Over time, I have come across many news stories about people who
STEVEN KASZAB
steven@carib101.com
INSIGHT TO SOCIETY
We can’t all agree about everything, no matter how much we love one another. Child rearing is often one of the main areas of contention between parents. A small disagreement isn’t dramatic, and in fact for a child, it’s healthy to realize that people can have different opinions, explain them calmly and reach a compromise. But what happens when your parenting disagreements are never-ending?
host’s miswording. There you go. Did the guest do the right thing? Have you found current societal approaches to simple personal responses, claims, and actions that may offend others as targets of social media attacks and corrections? A politician that said something, or did something many years ago that today is seen as offensive, or perhaps a not well thought out name for a new automobile that’s name means something offensive in another nation. More personally noticed are the: moments, words, actions of others that for whatever the reason, become a cause celeb for a short while.
Sure, being straightforward with another is acceptable, even educational. Why did the guest react to the hosts inaccurate naming of charcuterie? Achieving power by appearing to be smarter than the other person. Are they so close they can
have had to learn the hard way that their actions have consequences, and quite a few of them have relatives who will still come to their defence.
I understand it can be challenging for some to hold their loved ones accountable for their wrongs, but it has to be done so that people can realize they cannot get away with victimizing others.
We all have to understand that our loved ones’ wrongdoings don’t just only affect the victim(s), their families, and friends.
I recently came across a YouTube short created by Trell The Trainor on the lessons he learned while serving time in prison.
Besides sharing how there are
consequences for every action a person does, he also touches on the innocent people who will be affected by any wrongdoing.
As I stated earlier, the victims and anyone on their end won’t be the only ones who suffer. Relatives and friends of a suspect will usually suffer from embarrassment for a crime committed.
If you are someone who cares about your family’s reputation, don’t turn a blind eye when it comes to a relative’s harmful actions.
Continue to show love to your loved ones but do so by not enabling their bad behaviour.
speak to each other like that? The host’s reaction was one of nervous laughter, and not acceptance. The host was made to be humiliated and uncomfortable.
Such things happen on social media daily. Attacking those who have, who have achieved or tried to achieve others approval, applause perhaps. Say the wrong word; appear to be less intelligent than presented, and wagging tongues will attempt to knock them down a peg or two. People have a Jekyll and Hyde approach to others.
The host will surely not invite these people back to their home.
Say nothing and enjoy the offered food. While making drinks perhaps say to the host that he has heard that charcuterie can be pronounced many ways, such as the correct way. In polite conversation, much can be achieved. Build up his
Parents tend to approach child rearing according to their own sets of values, which are usually influenced by what they experienced as children. A father who was given an allowance will tend to do the same with his teenager. The mom who was never given any pocket money may strongly disagree with this approach.
Children faced with perpetual conflict bet ween their parents may try to
take advantage of it. If they know that Dad is more flexible about curfews, they’re sure to try and negotiate with him rather than with Mom. However, even if they get what they want, they may feel guilty for taking advantage of the situation. Disagreements can poison family life to the point where children end up believing that everything is their fault. Parents have to try and reach agreement
Couples who split up these days are more and more likely to opt for joint, or shared, custody. These parents want to preserve the family relationship even though their love relationship is over. To succeed, they need to focus their attention on the children’s interests, not their own.
Communication and the trust of the other parent are the basic elements of successful joint custody. However, because it isn’t al-
ways easy to be in tune with one another, a game plan that suits all parties can help keep things harmonious. To maximize the chances of success, parents should:
• Establish a schedule of custody days and stick to a routine. Children are happier knowing in advance where and when they’ll be and what they’ll be doing.
• Live close by. Ex-spouses should try
not to live too far from one another so their children can continue to attend the same school and keep their friends and activities.
• Never use children as messengers. Parents who can’t talk to one another should convey any important messages in writing, with e-mails or in a special notebook.
• Never denigrate the other parent. Parents have to learn to manage their
friend, and not pull him down. Are people generally mean spirited? Often correcting someone is just as mean as hitting him or her with a stick. The guest showed himself to be the smaller man, and certainly not a good friend.
Not everything is worth correcting. Before responding, always think before you speak.
Correct with evidence, and not your opinion. That way a solution can be found and not personalized.
Never embarrass the other person. It is always the way you say something. Correct using questions, the Socratic method.
Above all be prepared to be corrected, open to conversation and debate, but always with an open mind and cheerful heart.
without arguing in front of their children. They must admit to the fact that their partner has the right to think differently. When parents focus on a common goal, such as the happiness and well-being of their offspring, they find it easier to remember that the other parent loves the children just as much as they do.
emotions and avoid criticizing the other parent in front of the children. Moreover, parents have to accept that things are not necessarily done in the same way at the other’s home.
• Ask for help. Don’t hesitate to consult a mediator or a psychologist when conflict arises.
In our current society, people have a Jekyll and Hyde approach to others
I sat in the steam room and reflected on my meeting with M. “He is so damn short,” I said to myself. He was no more than 5’2, tiny, but he did have a nice body. There was no way that I would ever get involved with someone who was 5’2. I shook my head. This was not the point; I was here because he said that he wanted to work with me, not date me. I had to keep my head on straight, but the way he looked at me, spoke to me.
I snapped out of my thoughts and went to take a shower. After getting dressed I joined M outside. He was waiting by the door on his phone. When he
saw me, this scintillating smile flashed on his face.
“Hey Sim! I thought you might be a little hungry after our workout. Let’s go grab something to eat up the street. We can talk about the work that I would like for you to do.”
I was hesitant, but I thought to myself, what is the harm? I was hungry, and if he was buying, I would let him.
“Sure why not! You owe me after nearly killing me out there.”
M laughed and took my bag from me. “Let’s go Sim!”
He waved at the staff and we headed out.
We found a restaurant up the street, not too far from the gym. After we had been seated, the discussions just happened. We talked about everything. Family, where he was born, children. We had a lot in common, especially our love for Detroit. He had been born and raised there, and I had lived in Windsor on and off for 10 years. Some of my fondest mem-
ories were those years in Windsor, going to Detroit, working in Detroit, learning in Detroit.
Before I knew it, we had been talking for about three hours. I was four beers in and stuffed from my fish and chips. I looked at the time.
“What are your plans for tomorrow Sim,” M asked?
“Well, I am on my grind right now. I have had a rough few months, and I am trying to get my footing back. This is why we are here; you shared that you want me to help you with your work?”
“Well before we go there,” M replied, “Tell me what has been going on lately?”
I looked down and fought back tears. I wasn’t ready to speak on my recent calamities.
“Sim, it’s okay. Trust me! I have gone through a lot the last few years, and I know what it is like to shut down. Talk to me; sometimes you just have to get it out.”
His invitation to share moved me; I looked up at him and he was sitting there, looking at me. His calmness opened me like a flower, and I started to speak. I
told him everything about Panama, my relationship with D, how badly things had been going in my relationship. Once the floodgates were open I couldn’t stop talking. After another hour I finally relented. I sat there quietly, mentally kicking myself for over-sharing.
“Sim,” M said after a few moments of silence. “We are more alike than you think. You see, there is a reason why I reached out to you. You are a beautiful soul, and it is hard to find people to relate to.”
M then started to share his story with me. He also had been in prison, and charged for the same things that I had been accused of. I listened keenly as he told me the experience, soaking up the fact that someone else got me, and understood what I had been going through. The shame. The need to hate myself for what I had done, the pain I had caused my parents, finally someone innerstood me. We talked until the restaurant closed. It had to be one of the most impactful nights for me since I had gotten out of Panama. I felt seen.
desmond@carib101.com
CARIBBEAN HISTORY
History is commonly defined as the chronological record of events (as affecting a nation or people) and usually presenting an explanation of their causes.
Controlling the narrative enables one group to exercise mind control over another group by influencing the way they see the world around them and the way they perceive their place in the world. The profound importance of a people being in control of the narrative regarding their history was understood by the character Winston Smith in George Orwell's novel “Nineteen Eighty-Four” when he came to the realization that "Who controls the past, controls the future: who controls the present, controls the past."
It is clear that this realization is at the forefront of the thinking of the governors of the two most populous southern states in the USA who are working diligently to rewrite the history of race relations in the USA with particular reference to slavery, Jim Crow and race riots including ‘La Matanza’. In this regard, the Roman Catholic Church was ahead of the game by trying to rewrite the history of the church’s involvement in slavery.
In the movie “Trumbo,” which was about Martin Dies Jr. of the House of Representatives who was that chamber’s equivalent of McCarthy in the Senate, targeting and persecuting movie makers in Hollywood as being “Communists” and “Un-American” one of the colleagues of Chairman Dies commented, “It’s just a movie.” Dies’ response was “A movie isn’t just a movie. It’s about perception.” This is a really profound statement that deserves to be discussed fully, because the same
can be said of books and all other media, which influence not only how others see us but also how we see ourselves. Children in the developed world grow up on stories of their heroic ancestors and this shapes their perception of whom they are. We owe it to the children of the Caribbean to also shape their self - perception by introducing them to the heroism of their ancestors.
In the late 1970s to early 1980s there was an effort in the Caribbean to publish adventure novels based on actual events in Caribbean history targeting the 11-14 age group. By the 1990s, this effort had petered out and books such as “The Young Warriors” and “Sixty-five” both written by V.S. Reid had disappeared from the shelves of bookstores in the Caribbean. I can personally attest to this, because in the 1990s, I visited the main bookstores in the capitals of: The Bahamas, Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and Trinidad trying to purchase these two books for my son. I inquired of each store owner/manager why they were not carrying these books, and, in every instance, they explained that they used to carry the books, but eventually stopped because nobody would buy them.
We in the Caribbean need to understand and appreciate the importance of introducing our children to their history so that they can grow up with an awareness of our heroic ancestors. Adventure novels based on actual events and the lives of real people are an excellent way to do this. In Caribbean history, there is a superabundance of individuals and events that provide suitable material for adventure novels. Be it the valiant struggles of the Tainos and Kalinago to retain possession of, and to survive on the lands of their ancestors, the determined efforts of the maroons to maintain their hard-won freedom, or the courageous uprisings of the enslaved Africans seeking to end their servitude.
The importance of controlling the narrative Part I
sean@carib101.com
Using rolling papers to inhale can nabis is only predated by the use of a pipe or chalice device. Its history is lengthy and its track record as a consistently viable method of consumption is unshakable. Perhaps it is the most ubiquitous because of the ease and accessibility it provides to
consumers. Not to trivialize the art of rolling, but it can be done by almost any person at any time. Of course as one becomes more skilled and familiar with rolling, higher standards may begin to apply for the choice of medium for their creations. That being said, there are rolling papers for the most basic user to the most accomplished and everything on the spectrum between.
To begin, we will visit the brand I began my own journey with many moons
ZigZag
Like the Ghost of Spliffs Past, that old familiar bearded pirate on its cover could tell hundreds of tales about cannabis adventures and misadventures. This brand is the bare minimum of acceptability for any selfrespecting smoker.
ZigZag papers are excellent for novice users because the paper stock is durable and the glue strip is strong making it hard to tear or come undone while consuming. At the same time the strengths of this brand to novices are also its weaknesses for connoisseurs. The papers are durable because they’re thicker than most, adding unwanted flavour and smoke to your cannabis. The glue is stronger because it uses animal by-products instead of vegetable
The inexpensive, rapidly produced clothing sold by large retail chains that’s often referred to as fast fashion carries a steep environmental cost. Here’s what you should know about it.
The fashion industry uses a lot of water. The water footprint of a single cotton shirt, which is the total amount of water needed for its production, is nearly 2,500 litres. These companies also tend to
The textile industry relies heavily on ecologically suspect materials. Petroleumbased synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon and spandex reinforce our dependency on fossil fuels. What’s more, non-organic cotton is grown using large quantities of pesticides and herbicides. These respectively account for 60 percent and 30 percent of the fibers used worldwide. Here are four greener alternatives.
1. Eucalyptus. Able to absorb moisture and inhibit bacterial growth, eucalyptus is a fantastic alternative to
Kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities and other surfaces need to be kept clean. Here are three non-toxic disinfectants that’ll kill germs without harming you or the environment.
Accelerated hydrogen peroxide
You’re probable familiar with hydrogen peroxide, a disinfectant that breaks
ones, which is intolerable to some. ZigZag has come out with several different styles to address the shortcomings of its original style as well as the desires of its customers.
Rizla
Perhaps the oldest amongst its peers, dating all the way back to France 1796. Its name comes from the rice paper used to make it and the family name licensed by Napoleon himself to manufacture them for his troops.
Riz, is the French word for rice and la which is an abbreviation for Lacroix.
This brand holds claim to be the ones who revolutionized the field when they began putting a glue strip on the edge of their papers. Rizla papers are delicate and burn quickly but provide much less paper taste and much more cannabis taste when in use. You can find these papers in most stores but not all, so sometimes availability can be an issue. This brand also comes in a variety of styles and cuts to suit your needs. Most recently, Rizla introduced its first sustainable, biodegradable and completely chemical free papers made from bamboo in 2019.
Finally, we come to the pinnacle of commonplace rolling papers.
produce their clothes in countries with more relaxed environmental regulations than Canada or the Unites States. This means they dump untreated wastewater into rivers people rely on. A full 20 per cent of worldwide water pollution is directly caused by textile treatments and dyes.
Every time a garment made of a synthetic fibre like polyester, rayon or nylon is washed, it releases nearly 2,000 plastic
microfibres. These end up in the ocean, where they enter the food chain and eventually end up on our plates.
In 2014, people bought 60 per cent more clothes than they did in 2000, and since we recycle only 15 per cent of our clothes, most end up in landfills. Many of these are made of synthetic textiles, which will take over 200 years to decompose.
other types of textiles. It grows in arid soil (even that which can’t be used for much of anything else), it requires very little water and the fabric production process is environmentally friendly. However, it’s unlikely to grow in North America.
2. Bamboo. This is the fastest growing plant on the planet, and it doesn’t need any chemical pesticides or fertilizers to thrive. It also requires a lot less water than cotton. However, it’s hard to grow in some climates and most bamboo fabric has to be imported from China.
3. Linen. An already popular textile, linen is made from flax stems, meaning that flax production could serve the dual purpose of providing food and fabric. Linen is much stronger and more durable than cotton and flax and can be cultivated in a wide range of climates, making it a very promising source of textile.
4. Hemp. Hypoallergenic and stronger than cotton, hemp grows quickly in almost any climate, is resistant to bugs and diseases and matures in a mere 11 weeks. It also works perfectly as part of a crop rotation system
down into water and oxygen. Accelerated hydrogen peroxide contains stabilizers and compounds that reduce surface tension, increasing both its germ-killing properties and shelf life.
Plant-based disinfectants
Botanical disinfectants have been on the market for a while. One example is thym-
ol, an oil extracted from thyme that’s used in a variety of household cleaners. It’s been found to have very little environmental impact.
Silver dihydrogen citrate
The antibacterial properties of silver have been known for a long time. Silver ions combined with a citric acid solution
Raw
Relatively new to the field, Raw has made a huge impact by becoming a lifestyle brand you want to use rather than the rolling paper brand you have to use.
Recently the brand has come under fire for questions about its practices, but has risen above false claims and continues to be the gold standard for rolling papers. Pull out a pack of these and no one will refuse them. Most uniquely these brown coloured papers are unbleached and use vegan glue, immediately eliminating a huge amount of chemicals from their processing treatment. They also are created with a special crosshatch pattern stamped into the paper itself, which helps them burn more slowly than other papers. While these papers can be slightly harder to use due to less processing, they are further distinguishing themselves by being built for cannabis consumers as opposed to tobacco users. Their popularity has allowed them to grow beyond just rolling papers to carrying many other cannabis accessories like pre roll cones, grinders and rolling trays.
Undoubtedly, if Raw papers are an option, they should be your top choice.
The fashion industry accounts for 10 per cent of all global greenhouse gas emissions. Production, manufacturing and transport all factor into this. In addition, the synthetic fibres used by many brands are made from fossil fuels.
The fashion industry has a huge environmental impact. You can help mitigate this by privileging local brands and natural fibres and by buying second-hand clothing as much as possible.
with corn and soybean, which are heavily cultivated all over North America. On the flipside, it does need to be mixed with cotton to provide a soft fabric.
While further work needs to be done, there are a number of alternatives to petroleum-based textiles and non-organic cotton that are available. Look for them in specialty stores and in the aisles of more traditional boutiques.
is commonly used as a non-toxic antibacterial agent in cosmetics, but it could also serve as a household cleaner.
Keeping your home clean doesn’t need to involve potentially toxic chemicals, even when it comes to the surfaces in your bathroom and kitchen.
Did you know that cancer is one of the leading causes of death in cats? Or that cats who are exposed to the feline leukemia virus are likely to develop certain types of cancer? Luckily, in most cases this disease can be successfully treated if diagnosed early enough.
To this end, it’s important to be on the lookout for any changes in your cat’s appearance or temperament. If you notice any of the following signs, bring your cat to the veterinarian as soon as possible.
• Lumps that change in shape or size
• Sores or injuries that won’t heal
• Bleeding or discharge
• Sudden weight loss
• Coughing or difficulty breathing
• Bad breath
• Difficulty urinating or defecating
• Chronic vomiting or diarrhea
• Uncharacteristic lethargy
If your cat is experiencing these symptoms, it doesn’t necessarily mean they have cancer. However, it’s important to get them checked out by a veterinarian to be sure. Early diagnosis can mean the difference between life and death for your feline friend.
Do you love to wake up to the sound of songbirds? If you’d like to attract more birds to your yard, the key is to provide them with food, water and shelter. Here’s what you need to know.
Food
It may take several weeks for the local birdlife to notice but hanging a feeder or two is a surefire way to attract them to your yard. Fill the birdfeeders with nutrient-rich seeds like black-oil sunflower, safflower and thistle. Avoid buying premixed birdseed from a big box store, as
they’re usually packed with filler that birds don’t enjoy.
Water
Some birds are happy to use a birdbath, but the sound of moving water is a better way to signal that a drink and bath is available. Fountains, drippers and misters are readily available at pet supply stores.
Shelter
Wild birds need safe places to raise their young and to protect themselves from predators and the elements. You can provide roost boxes to shelter them from bad weather and birdhouses where they can nest and lay eggs.
Finally, consider planting native shrubs and flowers in your yard. These will provide both food and shelter for local birds and require very little maintenance.
While native, nectar-producing flowers will help attract hummingbirds, another way to invite these tiny birds to your yard is to hang feeders filled with nectar. Simply boil four parts water with one part white sugar for about two minutes, and fill the feeder. Be sure to change the sugar-water regularly.
Known for their long, bushy tails, luxurious fur and large, round ears, chinchillas make great pets. Here are a few good reasons to introduce one of these adorable rodents to your household.
1. They’re fun to watch. As long as their habitat offers them room to explore, climb and hide, you’ll never get bored of watching your chinchilla. They also benefit from daily playtime outside of their cage during which they’re likely to amuse you by jumping off the walls.
2. They’re easy to care for. Once their cage is set up, you just have to refill their water bottle, feed them daily and tidy their cage once a week. Chinchillas don’t do well with a varied diet and shouldn’t be fed anything beyond some pellet food and hay.
3. They live a long time. Unlike ot her rodents, chinchillas commonly live for 15 to 20 years.
4. They keep themselves clean. As long as you provide chinchillas with pumice dust, they’ll keep themselves clean. They bathe by rolling around in the dust, which soaks up oil and dirt.
While they have many attractive qualities, chinchillas aren’t the right pet for every home. They’re nervous creatures with a strong need to chew in order to keep their teeth short. People with small children would be better off adopting a different type of animal.
Do you have a lively dog with energy to spare? Participating in one of these dog sports is a great way for Fido to blow off some steam.
Agility
In this dog sport, you’ll guide your dog through an obstacle course race in which both time and accuracy matter. Any dog can compete in agility, but it’s ideal for intelligent, high-energy breeds like Australian shepherds and border collies.
All you need to play this dog sport is a Frisbee and an open space. Once you and your dog are ready, you can enter competitions with events like distance catching and choreographed freestyle catching. Athletic retrieving breeds are especially enthusiastic about this sport.
Canicross
Popular in Europe, this sport combines
cross-country running with dog handling. To play, your dog will need to wear a harness that will remain attached to your waist as the two of you run on a trail. Working breeds like German shepherds and huskies are great runners, but any dog with lots of energy will excel at this sport.
Taking part in sports with your dog is a great way to bond with them. Be sure to praise them for their efforts and reward them with a treat and a nap when they’re done.
Recently I visited a client who sold her 2,600 square foot home in Etobicoke and bought a one-bedroom condo. I asked her how she felt about such a drastic move. She said that now, she can enjoy an affluent lifestyle. I pried further.
“When living in my Etobicoke house, I would have hotdogs for dinner. Now, I can have a steak instead. I was house-rich and cash-poor then, and today I am house-poor and cash rich.”
Downsizing is becoming a trend with all age groups. A bigger home will cost more for mortgages, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance. A smaller home will bring less financial stress, less care, less housework, and more time to relax. Some families choose to downsize so that they can spend more time with their loved ones instead of beating the streets to pay the bills. Usually, homeowners who reduce appear happier since they also downsized their financial load.
Doreen had a resort-style home with a large in-ground pool, sauna, and built-in BBQ. It was a hot spot for friends and families. There was only one problem—when the guests and family members left, she alone had to clean up and cover the bills. Now moved, her small
dwelling brings her happiness and money too.
Many of us are worried about what others will say if we downsize. The size of our home gives us a sense of prestige. The best way to overcome this is to list the advantages and disadvantages of scaling down.
Moving to a smaller home is stressful. Families with children used to having bedrooms and adequate washrooms will need help to adjust. Have an open and honest discussion with family members. For financial reasons, consider converting the basement into a rental unit.
Upsizing is easier than downsizing. We love to move up to bigger and better. It’s exciting because, with the new home, we want more oversized furniture. Before downsizing, look at the kinds of homes you want to move to before selling your home. Don’t search for a home based on the size of your furniture, or you will be disappointed. This exercise can give you an idea of what to expect.
The next step is to sort through your belongings and decide what you will take to your new residence. You may need to get rid of oversized furniture. It’s an excellent time to sort clothing, books, and everything else. Group the items in three categories: keep, not sure, and good riddance. Dispose of the ones in the good riddance category. These can be sold at a discount or given as a donation. Social media such as Facebook marketplace is helpful.
Now, look at the second cate -
gory. Sort the items into two sets: keep and good riddance. A rule of thumb is that if you do not use an item for a year, chances are you will not need it. Avoid the temptation of renting storage space to store items that you may not use for a while. Storage can be costly. Should you sell first and then buy or do the opposite? In a market where prices are climbing, buying first and selling later is better. In a market where prices are coming down, it’s best to sell first and buy later. A good realtor can guide you through the process. A decluttered, cleaned, and staged home will be more appealing to prospective buyers. Avoid pumping money into signifi-
cant upgrades. A fresh coat of paint can add thousands of dollars to your pocket. It is advisable to take possession of the home you are moving to a week earlier than the one you are selling. You can do so through bridge financing, where the lender will facilitate the request. This way, you have a week to do minor repairs, cleaning, and moving. If you are selling to free up retirement cash, consult a financial planner to invest the proceeds. There are situations where a family needs the space but cannot afford the home. Instead of downsizing, consider moving to smaller towns, and you will pay less for a bigger house.
Have you carefully sorted your belongings down to the essentials, but your home is still a mess? Don’t worry! Here are a few tips to help you tidy up.
1. Take advantage of space. Go around your home and look for unused spaces underneath staircases and beds, over cupboards and behind doors. Make the most of this space with hooks, shelves and storage bins.
2. Store seasonal items. For instance, put your camping gear and Christmas decorations in marked bins or bags and store them in your basement or shed. Make sure these items are easily accessible when you need them.
3. Keep frequently used items at hand. It doesn’t make sense to stow away items you use several times a day or week. Instead, place them within easy reach or on attractive displays. Keep rarely used products out of sight unless they’re particularly decorative.
4. Invest in multifunctional furniture. Convertible furniture, multi-purpose shelving and storage benches or ottomans are perfect for stowing away things in style. Visit your local stores to explore your options.
Consult a specialist in your area for personalized advice on organizing your home.
Washing painted walls can be tricky and requires special care. Follow these steps to avoid marring the paint or leaving unsightly scuffs.
1. Gently remove dust and cobwebs with a vacuum cleaner or duster.
2. Place old towels along the baseboards to absorb excess water.
3. Wash the walls with a sponge or mop, working from top to bottom. Gent-
ly scrub away stains as needed. Water alone is usually sufficient for surface dirt, but you may need to use a mild detergent for stubborn stains.
4. Dry the cleaned and rinsed surfaces with a fresh cloth as you go.
Psst! The darker the paint colour and the more matte the finish, the less scrubbing you should do.
Have you finished most of your spring cleaning but haven’t washed your floors? Here are a few tips for maintaining your flooring without damaging it.
• Ceramic tiles. Clean the grout lines with a product specifically designed for this purpose. After letting the product soak in, scrub the grout with a clean brush or cloth and rinse. You can easily clean the surface of the tiles with a mixture of water and white vinegar.
• Vinyl. This popular material is easy to care for and will look new for years. Gently mop the floor with a vinyl cleaner to remove grime. Then, rinse with clean water and let dry.
• Floating floor. This type of flooring is
While spring cleaning your home, don’t forget about textiles. Here are a few tips for cleaning your quilts, bedspreads, curtains, cu¬shions, duvet covers and more.
1. Before putting any textiles in the washing machine, shake out all the dust and
debris or vacuum them. This will make cleaning more effective.
2. Metal accessories such as zippers can damage delicate fabrics. Don’t take any chan¬ces! Wash your delicates in a separate load. Also, place particularly fragile fabrics, like lace, in a mesh laundry bag.
3. Use a mild detergent, and don’t use bleach, which can discolour your fabrics.
4. Wash your fabrics in cold water on the delicate or normal cycle. Follow the care instructions on the label whenever possible.
5. The drying method you use depends
practical and attractive but vulnerable to moisture. Therefore, avoid soaking it with water when washing it. Purchase a product designed for floating floors. Follow the instructions to restore your floor to its former glory.
• Hardwood. Restore the shine of this elegant material with an environ¬men¬tally friendly, no-rinse cleaner. That way, you won’t leave be¬hind streaks or residue. Avoid using scouring pads and other aggressive tools to remove stains. These items could damage the floor’s finish.
Visit local stores to find products and accessories to make your floors shine.
on the fabric type. You can generally use the dryer for heavy-duty texti¬les. However, hang other materials to air dry before steaming or iro¬ning them.
If you have any items with special cleaning needs, bring them to your local dry cleaner.
so
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
WEEK OF FEBRUARY 12 TO MARCH 18, 2023
ARIES
You’ll undertake a new spiritual practice that allows you to develop a more active social life and meet interesting people. You’ll form new friendships and improve your wellbeing.
TAURUS
You’ll finally get your priorities in order. You’ll make the changes you’ve wanted to make for a long time. Some of your friends may be very supportive.
GEMINI
The topic of holidays will come up when you’re talking with your part ner, friends or family. You’ll learn more about specific destinations you’ve been eager to explore for a long time.
CANCER
If you have concerns about your health, take some time to see your doctor and get tested. Either everything will be fine, or you’ll receive the appropriate care so you can heal quickly.
LEO
Your leadership will help you reach a longterm agreement at work. Your sense of initiative will help you resolve a conflict.
VIRGO
You’ll have to make many compromises at work and home to regain harmony. You’ll have to muster all your patience to address a confu sing situation.
The luckiest signs this week: CAPRICORN, AQUARIUS AND PISCES PUZZLE
LIBRA
You may feel stressed about your financial situation. Consult a pro fessional to gain sufficient clarity. If you don’t, you may become more anxious.
SCORPIO
You feel dynamic and enthusiastic this week, which will help you increase your income and find joy. You’ll have the means to spoil your self and be pampered. A weeklong holiday will be memorable.
SAGITTARIUS
Carefully review all your bills to avoid unpleasant surprises regarding your finances. A mistake could cost you a large amount of money.
CAPRICORN
It’s always wise to take a moment to ponder your decision before embar king on a new adventure that could change your life. You’ll be presen ted with new possibilities over the next few days.
AQUARIUS
This week, you’ll find yourself in a frenzy of social engagements or work meetings. Don’t forget to take sometime for yourself, if only to relax.
At work or home, you’ll be designated to organize an event that brings many people together. Your community requires your involvement, and you can’t refuse.
LAND FOR SALE NEAR MANDEVILLE JAMAICA: A little over 1/3 acre residential land just a few minutes outside of Mandeville and the Northern Caribbean University (NCU). This affordable lot is located in the cool and peaceful New Wales community.
Tel: 647-884-8977
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LAND SALE AT REDUCED PRICE IN TRINIDAD 2 PARCELS FLAT LAND IN FINAL STAGE OF APPROVAL FROM TOWN AND COUNTRY in Freeport - 10 mins off the highway. Great for Pre-Fab Housing Project already present in TT, residential homes, warehousing etc. Please call: 905-660-4744 Email: shahs@rogers.com
HIRING NANNY: Looking for a nanny East York region for a 1 year old, light housing cleaning and cooking, 3 to 4 days a week. contact 647-739-2743
HIRING: 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.
LIST
PART TIME
DELIVERY DRIVERS: Approximately 4-6 hours commitment every second Wednesday.
Drivers needed for:
• Scarborough/Pickering/ Ajax
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• Brampton/Mississauga
Driver must have SUV or Van. Call 647-722-6298 to apply.
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APARTMENT FOR RENT: 2 Bedroom Appt $1600 all inclusive available for 1st May No Parking, No Pet, no Smoking, No Drugs. call 416-283-5450
LOOKING TO CONNECT: Senior Christian lady on ODSP looking to trade frugal recipes and frugal living tips. Email: SisterSuHotelDieu @gmail.com
SUNDAY SERVICE: Fountain of Truth Ministries Pastor: Reverend Maxine Campbell Worship Address: 2170 Kipling Avenue, Etobicoke Percy Johnson School – Cafeteria Sundays: 10.am – 2. pm Teaching, Worship, Ministering For info call: 416 748 0211
MISSISSAUGA: Mississauga Missionary Baptist Church invites you to join us at 1620 Dundas St West, each Sunday at 10am for praise, worship and in-depth Bible teaching with Pastor Sean, 416-219-9137
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
Whether you’re saving for retirement or a house, having a savings goal is an essential part of financial stability. Between unexpected illnesses and little weekly luxuries, however, meeting that goal isn’t always an easy task. Here are five tips to help you stay on track:
1. Get invested in your savings. The more educated and active you are when it comes to making your money work for you, the more it will feel like an accomplishment to see your savings increase.
2. Set savings milestones, and budget
in a reward for yourself when you meet them.
3. Prevent yourself from spending if you have to. Credit card issuers and banks now have lots of ways for you to enforce spending limits on yourself. Don’t be embarrassed to take advantage of them if you feel they might help.
4. Don’t worry too much about your luxuries. What matters is how much you’re spending on luxuries like clothes or fancy dinners. Don’t feel bad about what type of luxuries you buy as long the costs stay within bud-
get.
5. Be open to new plans. A savings plan is just a rough draft. While you should remain focused on a specific savings goal, don’t be afraid to change your method along the way if an opportunity presents itself. Once you have more experience with money management, you might take on more risk than when you’re just starting out. With a combination of planning and flexibility, anyone can meet their savings goals.
The short answer: immediately. But what it means to start saving for retirement is different for everyone. What’s essential is knowing what you want your retirement to be like and making a plan to get there. Here are three questions to ask yourself when planning for the future:
1. How long do I want to work?
Some people can’t wait to retire, while others have a hard time imagining their life without work. How long you’d like to work will drastically affect how you plan for retirement.
2. What do I want to do in retirement?
On average, we’re living longer lives than ever before. Retirement is now a significant and potentially richly rewarding period of your life. Do you want to spend it travelling? Devoting yourself to your family? What you want to do will determine your financial needs.
3. Are my expectations realistic?
If your retirement is still far in the future, you can expect that your situation will change in
ways you didn’t expect, both good and bad. At the same time, it’s probably not a good idea to wait around for a miracle to happen to increase your savings. Be honest about what you want for retirement and what you need to do to get there.
No matter how you envision your retirement, you can be sure that having a plan early will help you toward a more certain and stable path to financial security once you exit the workforce.
What is an RRSP?
A Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) is a type of savings account that you can set up with a financial institution such as a bank and that’s registered with the Canadian government. There are special rules relating to how you and the government can treat money contributed to this kind of plan.
What is it for?
An RRSP is meant to encourage you to save money in the long term by earning interest on the money you’ve contributed. If you
contribute money from your salary to your RRSP, that money can also be deducted from the income taxes you file yearly. Furthermore, the money you put in an RRSP isn’t subject to taxes until you withdraw it, so it grows faster than in other types of accounts.
Why is it a good idea?
Because of the special tax exemption rules, an RRSP is typically considered to be a safe and steady way to grow your money over a long period of time. If you’re far in your fu-
ture, you may want to consider a higher-risk account, like a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA), in addition to an RRSP. Once you get closer to retirement and value security over growth, the RRSP is a more reliable choice.
An RRSP is just one of many strategies that can make your money work for you. The sooner you start investing in your own future, the sooner you’ll be able to feel secure in your financial life.
No matter how old you are, planning for your financial well-being as a senior is a good idea. Whether you choose to continue working or to retire, your relationship to your money will inevitably change as you get older. It may not be the most exciting topic, but your financial plan will be the foundation for many of your decisions in years to come. Here are two important issues to consider about financial planning:
Decide who will have power of attorney
It’s important to consider who should be
given power of attorney in case something unforeseen happens that renders you unable to manage your finances. It’s essential to have a plan in place to ensure that your wishes will be honoured and to prevent confusion amongst your loved ones. Choosing who will be responsible for your finances is a serious decision, and there are many different ways to divide responsibilities. Be sure to weigh all your options and consult with a professional before making this decision.
If you’re interested in sharing only some of the burden of financial management with a loved one, you can also consider setting up a joint bank account and dividing certain financial responsibilities between yourself and someone you trust to look after your interests.
Mixing family (or friends) and finances can be tricky. No matter how much you trust someone, always prioritize your own best interests and take every precaution that you would with a third party.
The rubber seals, or weatherstrips, around the edges of your car doors prevent rain, wind and moisture from seeping through the gaps into the cabin. Here are a few tips for keeping yours in good shape.
1. Wash the weatherstrip. Keep the weatherstrip clean by washing it regularly with car-safe soap and warm water. Dip a rag or sponge in the bucket and scrub any dirt off the lining. Do this whenever you wash the outside of your car.
2. Repair or replace weatherstrip. When cleaning the weatherstrip, inspect it to ensure it isn’t coming loose anywhere. If it is, reattach it
with a tube of weatherstrip adhesive. If it’s frayed or torn in several spots, replace it.
3. Apply a protectant. To prevent the rubber weatherstrip from drying and cracking, apply a silicone protectant. This’ll protect the rubber from excessive heat, preserving its sponginess and lubricating it. The protectant also prevents the strip from freezing in the winter.
Performing these tasks regularly keeps the weatherstrip from damage and helps you avoid replacement. Ask your mechanic to inspect your weatherstrip when you bring your car in for your next maintenance appointment.
Winter roads are filled with dirt, mud and road salt. After months of driving in lessthan-ideal conditions, you probably want to visit a car wash to make your ride look its best. Here’s a short guide to help you choose between a soft-touch or touchless car wash.
• Soft-touch car washes use foam and cloth applicators filled with soap and water. The materials gently glide across the vehicle, spreading the soapy solution over its surface. The cloth makes physical contact with the car, wiping away the dirt. However, the cloth strips can be applied too forcefully, potentially damaging your vehicle’s mirrors, detailing, antenna or other loose parts. Small sto¬¬nes and dirt can also get stuck inside the fabric, damaging your vehicle’s finish.
• Touchless car washes are entirely automated. They use sophisticated se¬nsors to guide high-pressure washers along the contours of your vehicle to clean every inch of it effectively. The car isn’t physically touched by anything other than powerful cleaning agents and water. This reduces the risk of your vehicle being damaged during the cleaning process. However, the pressure washers can’t get into every crack, crevice and hard-to-reach area. Moreover, chemical cleaners can harm your vehicle’s finish.
Lastly, a touchless car wash should work just fine if your car is only slightly dirty. If you haven’t washed your car in a while, a soft-touch car wash will provide a more thorough clean.
