“Some of these concerns also apply to cancer patients infected with SARS-CoV-2, we encourage the scientific and medical community to urgently evaluate the impact of both COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccination on cancer biology and tumor registries...”
In the bustling world of real estate, where deals are made and dreams are realized, one name stands out as a beacon of excellence and empowerment: Tiffany Gray. Born and raised in the vibrant streets of Port Royal, Kingston, Jamaica, Tiffany’s journey to becoming a real estate mogul and community advocate is nothing short of inspiring and empowering.
Tiffany Gray has emerged as a highly accomplished and influential figure in the real estate industry. Tiffany’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and a commitment to making a difference. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and community leaders, reminding them: to stay true to their path, embrace growth, and never underestimate the impact they can have on the world around them.
Tiffany’s passion for real estate ignited at a young age, fueled by the transformative impact she witnessed property ownership have on families and communities. Determined to make a difference, she embarked on her journey at just 19 years old, diving headfirst into the world of real estate as a young, ambitious realtor.
“A very influential moment for me came early in my career, witnessing a young couple struggle to navigate the complexities of homeownership. It solidified my commitment to providing clear guidance and education throughout the real estate journey. My upbringing across Jamaica, New York, and California instilled in me a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives and cultural contexts. This understanding is crucial when catering to a broad range of clients in the real estate market,” she shared.
Over the course of 23 years, Tiffany’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. From humble beginnings as a salesperson to establishing herself as a trusted broker and business owner, her journey has been marked by determination, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
As the Chairman and Founder of Step into Your Legacy Foundation, Tif-
fany’s dedication to empowering youth and young adults in building wealth is evident. Through innovative programs and initiatives, she is shaping the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs, instilling in them the importance of financial literacy and community development.
Tiffany’s impact extends far beyond the confines of the real estate industry; she is also the driving force behind Dynamic Duo LTD, a company revolutionizing the shared services industry through exceptional customer service and cutting-edge technology.
At the helm of T.A.M.G Realty (The Appearance Manifestation of God), Tiffany has cultivated a culture of excellence and empowerment, earning accolades such as the Best of Georgia Award for four consecutive years. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Tiffany M. Gray was also inducted into the prestigious Marquis Who’s Who of America in 2023, solidifying her status as a respected and influential leader in her field. Her brokerage is not just about closing deals; it’s about fostering lasting relationships, providing personalized attention, and empowering clients to achieve their real estate goals. With an impressive track record of over $1 billion in property deals, she has established herself as a trusted and successful commercial and residential real estate broker in the United States.
“As a woman-and minority-owned business, T.A.M.G brings a unique perspective to the industry. We prioritize fostering inclusivity and ensuring diverse representation within our team and client base. T.A.M.G’s impact goes beyond transactions. We empower clients to make informed decisions and build a secure future. Additionally, we cultivate a collaborative environment where our agents thrive and reach their full potential,” she emphasized.
T.A.M.G’s core strategies involve ongoing mentorship for our agents and clients, innovative marketing solutions to reach a wider audience, and staying informed about market trends. Our goal is to be the leading bespoke real estate brokerage, synonymous with client satisfaction
and agent success.
“We approach problem-solving collaboratively; by drawing on the diverse expertise within our team, we can analyze situations from multiple angles and develop solutions tailored to each client’s specific needs,” she highlighted. T.A.M.G Realty will have several upcoming projects focused on community outreach and financial literacy programs. Empowering potential clients with knowledge is key to building a more informed and secure real estate landscape.
Beyond her professional achievements, Tiffany is a multifaceted individual with a deep appreciation for life’s rich tapestry. As a devoted mother, avid reader, and world-class chef, she embodies the idea that success is not just about business accolades, but also about living a fulfilling and balanced life.
Now, as she sets her sights on making a significant impact in Jamaica, her home country, she brings with her a wealth of experience, passion, and determination. With plans to expand T.A.M.G’s reach internationally and spearhead community development initiatives, Jamaica can look forward to a brighter, more prosperous future under Tiffany’s leadership.
As she returns to her home country, she brings not only her entrepreneurial success, but also a deep commitment to positive change and job creation. Jamaica can look forward to witnessing the transformative impact of Tiffany’s passion for excellence and her unwavering drive to uplift and empower others.
Her story emphasizes the power of dedication, lifelong learning, and a strong support system. It’s a reminder that success is built upon continuous growth, both personally and professionally.
Photo Credit: Leta Taylor
Throughout history, there have always been individuals who ascend to the higher echelons of cognitive prowess, where our brains undergo profound transformations in the acquisition of knowledge.
Progressing from mere understanding – the ability to interpret, summarize, and infer meaning – they delve into the realm of application, where concepts are wielded in real-world scenarios with astuteness. Advancing further, they embark on the path of analysis, dissecting ideas into their constituent parts and perceiving them through diverse lenses.
Synthesizing follows, as they weave together disparate threads of information to unveil overarching truths and patterns. Then comes evaluation, where judgments are forged through rigorous scrutiny and comparison against established criteria.
Finally, at the pinnacle stands creation, the zenith of Bloom’s Taxonomy, where elements are ingeniously fashioned into novel configurations, marking the culmination of intellectual mastery. In these higher states of cognition, the journey
from understanding to creation represents a transcendence, a testament to the boundless potential of the human mind.
We are lucky to have a mind in our community that has reached profound levels of thinking; that individual is Elder Errol Gibbs. I received a thought-provoking Mini Position Paper titled “Unthinkable Thoughts!”
In the paper, he speaks to the fact that every country needs alliances, but they must be as equal partners, not as subordinates to self- appointed “great powers.” “Africa is far superior in its potential than any nation in the world to benefit from the new world—the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) (Industry 4.0), undergirded by AI digital resolution. Africa does not need the IMF, or the World Bank to keep suffocating her growth through a “debt trap,” he shares.
Elder Gibbs mentions that it is not theoretical, but scientific and a practical reality, undergirded by significant data gathering and analysis of Africa’s balance sheet. Africa might be cash-poor, but it is asset-rich. Africa has many advantages that the world seems unaware of. For instance:
Natural resources: For example, Africa has 40% of the world’s gold and up to 90% of its chromium and platinum. It also has the largest reserves of cobalt, diamonds, platinum, and uranium in the world. Africa holds 65% of the world’s arable land, and 10% of the planet’s internal renewable freshwater source.
Massive land mass: For example, The African continent has a land area of 30.37 million sq. km (11.7 million sq. mi) — enough to fit the: United States, China, India, Japan, Mexico, and many European nations combined.
Massive youth population: For example, the youth is Africa’s greatest asset. Africa’s population is projected to more than double to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, representing 25% of the world’s population. Almost one-half of the world’s youth will be from Africa, with a median age of 35.
Massive intellectual student base (national and internationally): For example, in 2020, France hosted approximately 126,000 African students. China comes in second with roughly 81,500 students, while the United States comes in third with approximately 48,000 African students.
Massive medical practitioners (internationally): For example, approximately 65,000 African-born physicians and 70,000 African-born professional nurses worked overseas in a developed country in 2000. This represents about one-fifth of Africanborn physicians worldwide and about one-tenth of professional nurses. The fraction of health professionals abroad varies enormously across African countries, from 1% to over 70% according to the occupation and country.
It is at this point of the paper that Elder Gibbs asks some questions; does the UN
Sustainable Development Goals help Africa focus on gaining autonomy in any of these seven sectors? Can they enable Africa to get out of the “debt trap?” Can they help Africa achieve the status of “industrialized nation,” and a “United States of Africa?”
According to Elder Gibbs, “Africa has the means to accomplish these goals as her primary responsibility. Africa needs to craft a unique set of 17 Sustainable Development Goals “apart” from the United Nations: Department of Economic and Social Affairs Sustainable Development Goals. Africa is burning through her: money, talent, and resources in a futile and endless effort of “stop-gap” management instead of building autonomously permanent infrastructure that she can afford.”
“I refer to the cornerstone of the vision for Africa as “Assets versus Liabilities—the Economic Factor: The Rise of Africa?” I prefer to share it with a panel of: African Leaders, academics, and researchers rather than in this paper. It requires a boardroom presentation in an academic setting.”
For my higher-level thinkers, what are your thoughts; do you believe that Africa needs to craft a unique set of 17 Sustainable Development Goals “apart” from the United Nations: Department of Economic and Social Affairs Sustainable Development Goals? If you would like to add to this discussion, feel free to reach out to Elder Gibbs at gibbse143@gmail.com. He will be able to field any questions you have and share the mini position paper with you.
The captivating and inspiring Carnival Arts costume showcase was held on Friday, April 12th, 2024, at the Student Learning Centre located at the Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU). It featured many student designers who were enrolled in the Fashion Arts program at TMU. The promotional material describes it as a showcase of creativity, storytelling, and student-curated costumes taking center stage with SugaCayne’s Innovation in Mas collection.
This is made possible through SugaCayne, which is one of the newest bands in the Toronto Caribbean Carnival launched in 2010. “We are honoured to fulfill our mission to create educational spaces and exhibitions for the carnival curious in collaboration with the TMU School of Fashion’s flagship event Mass Exodus.”
I spoke with bandleader Dwayne Harris of SugaCayne prior to the showcase. He was quite excited to be involved in this launch in partnership with TMU. He told me that he has previously worked with the Toronto Revellers prior to launching his own band with his wife. He is excited about this unique partnership as it serves “To bridge the gap in awareness and knowledge for those who may not be as familiar with the Carnival experience by creating educational spaces and exhibitions.”
The costumes designed by SugaCayne have been featured at different locations in the Greater Toronto Area. They include places such as: Toronto Carnival, Nike, Artwork TO, The Design Exchange, Holt Renfrew, The Bob Marley Experience, and the Royal Ontario Museum as well as other venues in the Greater Toronto Area.
Caron Phinney (Course Instructor) describes details about the Carnival Arts course at the Creative School at TMU. “It brings an innovative and critical learning experience like no other in North America. The course offers a contextual history of carnival and challenges students to up -
cycle materials and explore digital fabrication.” She describes the significance of the showcase as the catalyst of explorations and discoveries in the future. She notes, “The show is a space for students to express complex human stories through colourful and intricate design work that celebrates not just Caribbean tales, but also encourages students to learn from, explore, and embrace their own cultural background.”
The narrator of the showcase was Henry Gomez (aka King Cosmos). He is well known as a calypsonian in the Greater Toronto Area and regularly performs across Canada. He was introduced as a “Trinidadian and Tobagobian Canadian musician, actor, and educator. He is recognized as one of Canada’s best-known performers of Caribbean music and revered elder in the Caribbean Arts community.” He provided a good overview of the history of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival from its start in 1967 to the present. He outlines many of its features, the importance to Canada, and its future potential.
The names of the scenes that were presented in the showcase are:
• Fantasy & Folklore
• Natural Phenomenon
• Flora & Fauna
• Darkside
The showcase of the visually exciting and spectacularly appealing costumes provides a platform to bring the design process in the classroom. Students who were involved in the production of the Carnival Arts Show were enrolled in the transdisciplinary Live Event Supercourse. They participated directly in an environment that duplicated various aspects of the realworld. There is a collaborative approach with respect to different event production. Students participate in areas such as:
• Management roles
• Broadcast
• Curation
• Installation
• Exhibition Design
• Service Design
• Space Design
• Content Creation
• Technical Direction
• Promotion
• Budgeting
Before we allow more people into the country, shouldn’t we prioritize the well-being of our citizens first?
simone@carib101.com
Greetings esteemed citizens of Canada. I am deeply troubled by a pressing issue that demands our attention. It pertains to our immigration policies and the welfare of our citizens.
I am bewildered by the continued influx of immigrants into our country while we struggle to adequately care for our own citizens. Take, for instance, a drive through Toronto, or a drive through Hamilton—it’s a stark reminder of the dire situation many Canadians face daily. We witness homelessness, lack of access to basic healthcare, and economic hardships plaguing our communities.
Homelessness continues to be an issue in Toronto, with thousands of people experiencing homelessness on any given night. The impacts of it are complex, long lasting, and devastating for many. Homelessness affects some of our community’s most vulnerable residents and contributes to ongoing health inequities.
Toronto is also experiencing a heightened number of non-fatal and fatal opioid overdoses within the overall community, as well as within the shelter system. This is primarily due to the increasing toxicity and unpredictability of the unregulated drug supply. According to the City of Toronto, in 2023, there were 169 calls to Toronto Paramedics from Toronto shelters and respites sites in Q4 of 2023 to respond to non-fatal overdoses. Over 2023, there were a total of 796 non-fatal suspected
overdoses at Toronto shelter and respite sites, representing an 11% decrease from 2022.
Higher rates of illness and premature death among the homeless population have been widely recognized, and since January 2024, there have been 28 deaths in homeless shelters. The City says that they are committed to identifying and responding in a timely manner to new and emerging issues in the shelter system.
According to Homeless Statistics in Canada, the estimated number of homeless people ranges from 150,000 to 300,000, with 25,000 to 35,000 individuals homeless on any given night. Let’s take a look at this on a national scale:
Homelessness Statistics for Canadians
• Between 25,000 and 35,000 people are homeless on any given night in Canada.
• Toronto has the most homeless people in Canada.
• 62% of homeless people in Canada are males.
• 30% of Canadian homeless come from Indigenous communities.
• 90% of homeless shelters in Canada are in: Ontario, British Columbia, Quebec, and Alberta, and 44% of them are in Ontario alone.
• 22% of shelters are aimed at young homeless in Canada, while 20% of people experiencing homelessness are 13-24 years old.
• The annual cost to society is over $7 billion.
• The Canadian Government is investing $2.2 billion over ten years to expand funding for the homeless.
Yet, for some reason, the Canadian government strongly believes that it is in the best interest of our country to continue to push for higher immigration. Yes, I over-
stand that immigration is a complex issue with multifaceted implications. Canada has long prided itself on its tradition of welcoming immigrants, which enriches our cultural fabric and contributes to our economic growth. The only caveat is we as Canadians need to truly understand how this is affecting us as a whole.
According to Statista, annual immigration in Canada amounts to almost 500,000 new immigrants – one of the highest rates per population of any country in the world. As of 2023, there were more than eight million immigrants with permanent residence living in Canadaroughly 20% of the total Canadian population. In a press release titled “Canada welcomes historic number of newcomers in 2022,” it is proudly written that Canada has experienced one of the fastest recoveries from the pandemic, thanks in large part to our approach to immigration.
In the press release, they state that they plan to welcome a historic number of newcomers, and IRCC has: added resources, embraced new technology, streamlined processing, and brought more processes online. They claim that these changes are all important improvements to Canada’s immigration system, which will position them well for the future. They also state that their focus is on addressing the acute labour market shortages we are facing today and building a strong economy into the future, and one thing remains certain: “Immigration is a key part of the solution.”
“Today marks an important milestone for Canada, setting a new record for newcomers welcomed in a single year. It is a testament to the strength and resilience of our country and its people. Newcomers play an essential role in filling labour shortages, bringing new perspectives and talents to our communities, and enriching our society as a whole. I am excited to see
what the future holds and look forward to another historic year in 2023 as we continue to welcome newcomers,” shared Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
I received an email from Maxime Bernier (PPC Leader), and in this email, he shared with me his thoughts. “I started talking about the perils of mass immigration years ago. The whole political and media establishment denounced me, smeared me, said I was a racist, a xenophobe, anti-Canadian. I kept telling the truth, because I care more about the future of our nation than about what these corrupt elites think of me.”
“More and more people now realize that I was right. Simone Jennifer, we need to make mass immigration the ballot box question at the coming election. When the Liberals took power in 2015, Canada’s population was only 35 million. How can we possibly integrate into our society, our economy, our housing market, our culture, the equivalent of Nova Scotia’s, or Saskatchewan’s population every few months? It’s a planned invasion. It’s a total disaster in the making.”
I understand the importance of immigration, especially because my parents are also immigrants, but before we allow more people into the country, shouldn’t we prioritize the well-being of our citizens first? How can we justify bringing more people into the country when we’re struggling to provide essential services and support to those already here?
I urge the government to reevaluate its immigration policies and ensure that they align with the needs of our citizens. We must prioritize the well-being of Canadians and work towards building a more inclusive and prosperous society for all.
2024 Toronto Caribbean Carnival Festival management committee shares, “Look forward to exciting changes!”
There is much anticipation, expectation and cautious optimism for the 57th Toronto Caribbean Carnival. There have been many challenges that the Festival Management Committee (FMC) have faced over the years notably in terms of funding. The FMC has some exciting plans for 2024, which it recently unveiled. This is good news for North America’s largest Caribbean festival.
In the December 23rd, 2023, issue of the Toronto Carnival Insider Volume 1: Beyond the Mas some of the achievements and accomplishments of 2023 are highlighted by Jennifer Hirlehey, Chair of the FMC. She lists:
• For the first time in the history of the FMC, we involved representatives of our stakeholders: OPSA, OSA and CAC
to join our Board of Directors.
• This year the FMC prioritizes: fiscal responsibility, accountability, and transparency. We were able to produce the Carnival with approximately $1.7 million less than the year before.
• We reinvested our Education Program, enabling us to take the Carnival Arts back to our schools.
• We took preliminary steps to start our scholarships and building projects.
• We refurbished our Sponsorship Program collaborating with multiple high-profile corporations.
• We restructured internally, ensuring that we have qualified professionals at all levels of the organization.
• We’ve prioritized projects aimed at revitalizing our volunteer and judging program.
• We’re taking strides towards self-sustainability and less dependence on grants and other government funding.
In many ways, 2023 was a pivotal year for the largest Caribbean festival in North America as it involved the launch of several creative initiatives. One of them was the Toronto Caribbean Carnival Varsity Collection. It was created by a local artist in Toronto.
Adrian Charles (General Manager) describes some of the changes. “Many of the events will be moved from Lamport Stadium to Exhibition Place, which represents an essential change in location. The utilization of Exhibition Place will see the border of Prince’s Boulevard, New Brunswick and Ontario Drive which is lot number 852 hosting three important events. They include: The King and Queen, the Pan Alive, and the Grand Parade. There will be a significant expansion in the seating capacity that will include a VIP and judges’ seating. Furthermore, by locating in one area it will help logistically and there will be a better chance of managing other aspects of the festival.”
Board Chair Hirleley followed up on her concerns about funding for 2024. She outlines what the FMC expects in the “Toronto Carnival Insider Vol 0224,” which was sent out on April 3rd, 2024. “Our goal is to become self-sufficient so that we can ensure the Carnival’s longevity and rely less on government funding to stage the Carnival. However, we must continue to educate all levels of government on the significant economic impact of the Carnival.”
She mentions the economic benefits of the Carnival to the City of Toronto. “We contribute approximately $480 mil-
lion to Ontario’s GDP. We create approximately 4,000 direct jobs each year and we contribute approximately $180 million to the combined tax revenues of the: federal, provincial and municipal governments. Yet, on average we receive approximately one million dollars in combined funding from all levels of government. Moreover, we receive significantly less funding from the province than other festivals of similar size.”
On March 18th, 2024, the FMC Executive Leadership Team met with several MPPs of different parties at the Ontario Legislature. MPP Charmaine Williams introduced and welcomed followed by a reception. The New Dimension Steel Orchestra and Dance Caribe performed followed by a display of costumes by Tribal Mas.
The dates and events of the upcoming Toronto Caribbean Carnival are:
• July 14th: Jr. King and Queen
• July 20th: Jr Parade
• July 28th: OCPA Calypso Show
• August 1st: King & Queen
• August 2nd: Friday Night Mas
• August 3rd: Grand Parade
• August 4th: OSA Pan in D Park
• August 4th: International Rum Fest
I remember when cancer was something distant, something that happened to other people, but now, it feels like it’s everywhere. I think everyone knows someone who’s been affected by cancer. It’s become a part of our reality, a very sad reality.
Cancer is one of the most dreaded diseases of the 21st century. A hundred years ago, cancer was not so common; however, since the last couple of decades, its incidence has been rising alarmingly.
What is cancer? Put simply; cancer is the abnormal growth of cells. Cancers arise from any organ, or body structure and are composed of tiny cells that have lost the ability to stop growing. Transformation of a normal cell into a cancerous cell is probably not such a critical event in the genesis of cancer; rather it is the inability of immune cells of the body to identify and destroy the newly formed cancer cells when they are few in numbers. The risk of cancer is multiplied in people whose immune system is suppressed due to any factor including chronic stress, old age, or a chronic debilitating disease.
According to a recent Wall Street Journal analysis of data from the National Cancer Institute, one in five new colorectal cancer patients in the United States is under 55, That’s nearly twice the rate in 1995.
While deaths for colorectal cancer patients over 65 are going down, deaths among younger patients are increasing, a reflection of the higher mortality rates often observed in early-onset cancers. Scientists say these cancers can be more deadly because they are not caught early enough for successful interventions (colonoscopies are not recommended until age 45).
There are several hypothesis for the increase in cancer; one claim is that the increase in global obesity rates since the mid1990s plays a significant role in the uptick, and scientists have found that specific diets, such as those rich in so-called ultra-processed foods, have been associated with a higher risk of GI cancers, regardless of a person’s body-mass index.
The increase in early-onset cancers has become undeniable, replicated in study after study. A BMJ article published last year found that the early onset of 29 different cancers, including: breast, stomach, and colorectal, had risen nearly 80% between 1990 and 2019 worldwide. Another study published in JAMA
Network Open last August found that the occurrence of a wide range of cancers among people under 50 had increased between 2010 to 2019 among American adults, particularly among women.
John Marshall, Director of the Ruesch Center for the Cure of Gastrointestinal Cancers at Georgetown University, has been treating patients for 30 years. Early in his career, he says, he would never have a patient under the age of 50. Today, half of his patients are in that younger cohort, many of them otherwise healthy and fit. He first started to notice the trend with colorectal cancers, but later found an increase in other cancers as well, which significantly mirrors the research literature.
Findings have also pointed to another revelation: “We have, each of us, different risks depending on when we are born,” Shuji Ogino, a Molecular Pathological Epidemiologist at Harvard Medical School, shared in his research.
According to a paper published last year by a New Zealand research team, the upticks in cancers among young adults matched the timeline that we would expect from the multiplication of microplastics in the environment. Research on cellular and rodent models has suggested that microplastics (plastic bottles, packaging, synthetic textiles, cosmetics, and industrial processes) could promote tumor growth. Yeah, pretty much everything that has become commonplace in our lives. Though more research is needed, we already know these materials contain chemicals that can disrupt hormones and pose a risk to our health.
“People born in the first half of the 20th century had a lower risk of developing cancer by age 50 than people born in the second half,” Shuji shares. Other scientists increasingly suspect that exposure to risk factors at certain ages — whether: in utero, early childhood, or early adulthood. — could be playing an important role in a person’s risk of developing cancer at a young age.
Then, there are some other less researched reasons that have been illuminated. According to a recent peer-reviewed analysis, it was discovered that COVID-19 vaccines can trigger genetic changes in cancer patients that could aid in the further development of the disease in such individuals.
The review, published in the Cureus medical journal on December 17th, 2023, looked at the relationship between COVID-19 vaccines and cancer. A review of multiple studies led the authors to conclude that certain COVID-19 vaccines may create an environment that predisposes some cancer patients, including survivors, to “cancer progression, recurrence, and/or metastasis.”
The conclusion was based on two factors. First is the “multi-hit hypothesis” of cancer, which suggests that cancer is the consequence of several genetic mutations. The second is the “growing evidence and safety reports” in the Vaccine Adverse Effects Report
System (VAERS), which suggested that some cancer patients who took COVID-19 vaccines saw their conditions worsen.
“In light of the above and because some of these concerns also apply to cancer patients infected with SARS-CoV-2, we encourage the scientific and medical community to urgently evaluate the impact of both COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccination on cancer biology and tumor registries, adjusting public health recommendations accordingly,” the review said.
Let’s talk about why and how this is happening. MRNA vaccines have the potential to trigger a set of biological mechanisms that could lead to the progression of cancer. These effects are attributed to factors like the “proinflammatory action” of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and tumor-causing effects of the vaccines’ antigens, namely the spike protein. LNPs are nanoparticle drug delivery systems that can be used to deliver DNA and mRNA into a body. Researchers found that the spike protein, found on the surface of the COVID-19 virus, facilitates the entry of the virus into healthy cells.
The authors who wrote the review are Raquel Valdes Angues from the Oregon Health and Science University School of Medicine in Portland and Yolanda Perea Bustos from the education department in the Government of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain. They declared that they received, “No financial support” from organizations that might have an interest in their work, and they were involved in no other relationships, or activities that could have influenced the review.
Now, let’s turn to another undiscussed factor; 5G. In an article titled “Health risks from radiofrequency radiation, including 5G, should be assessed by experts with no conflicts of interest,” (Lennart Hardell, and Michael Carlberg), the researchers appealed to the European Union (EU) in September 2017. Their appeal (endorsed by >390 scientists and medical doctors), requested a moratorium on 5G deployment until proper scientific evaluation of potential negative consequences has been conducted.
This request was not acknowledged by the EU. The evaluation of RF radiation health risks from 5G technology was ignored in a report by a government expert group in Switzerland, and a publication from The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection. Conflicts of interest and ties to the industry seem to have contributed to the biased reports. In the report, they note that the lack of proper unbiased risk evaluation of the 5G technology places populations at risk. They also note that there seems to be a cartel of individuals monopolizing evaluation committees, thus reinforcing the no-risk paradigm.
To bring relevance to those thoughts, I discovered an open editorial titled “Moskowitz: Cellphone radiation is harmful, but few want to believe it,” by Anne Brice. For more than a decade, Joel Moskowitz, a researcher
in the School of Public Health at UC Berkeley, and Director of Berkeley’s Center for Family and Community Health, has been on a quest to prove that radiation from cellphones is unsafe, but, he said, “Most people don’t want to hear it.”
“People are addicted to their smartphones. We use them for everything now, and, in many ways, we need them to function in our daily lives. I think the idea that they’re potentially harming our health is too much for some people.”
“Cellphones, cell towers and other wireless devices are regulated by most governments,” said Moskowitz. “Our government, however, stopped funding research on the health effects of radiofrequency radiation in the 1990s.”
Since then, he said, research has shown significant adverse biologic and health effects — including brain cancer — associated with the use of cellphones and other wireless devices. And now, he said, with the fifth generation of cellular technology, known as 5G, there is an even bigger reason for concern.
The International EMF Scientist Appeal, signed by over 250 scientists with extensive research backgrounds, underscores a growing concern regarding the health effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields emitted by wireless devices like cell phones. With over 2,000 published papers and letters in professional journals, these scientists advocate for health warnings and stronger exposure limits. Their research, spanning numerous animal toxicology studies, indicates a potential for increased oxidative stress, including free radicals, stress proteins, and DNA damage.
A comprehensive 2009 review published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, suggests a link between heavy cellphone use and heightened brain cancer incidence.
I want to take a moment to highlight the fact that they have attempted to blame many things for the uptick in cancer diagnosis and have ignored two major factors: the introduction of a vaccine, and fifth generation cellular technology. I liken it to the actions of the telecom industry; the comparison to the tobacco industry is striking. Just as tobacco companies once enlisted doctors and dentists to downplay smoking risks in the 1940’s, the telecom industry now utilizes a nuclear physicist to reassure policy makers of the safety of microwave radiation. This pattern echoes the tactics employed by Big Tobacco and underscores the telecom industry’s considerable economic and political influence, surpassing even that of its predecessor.
It appears that we are going to be witnessing more and more cancer diagnosis, especially of people who are much younger. This article was meant to inform and educate; I hope that you utilize this information to ensure that you take all precautions when it comes to your health. You have to care about you, because the powers that be do not!
simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
I stood with a friend in the chocolate aisle, staring at the shelves filled with various chocolate products. A price tag caught my eye, “Look at this, girl!” My friend took a look, and instantly, her expression mirrored mine.
“Unbelievable. It’s like daylight robbery!” I reluctantly picked up a smaller bar of chocolate, clearly debating whether it’s worth the higher price. “Yeah, it’s crazy! I used to buy chocolate bars without a second thought, but now…”
Did you guys notice how expensive those chocolate eggs were this Easter? Absolutely! Many had to cut back on how much they bought for their children. I have even heard parents talking about adjusting their budgets for next Easter. If you can believe it, the rising cost of chocolate is actu-
ally putting a strain on finances, amongst everything else.
North Americans and Europeans noticed the uptick around Easter, when the prices of popular chocolate products were up as much as 50%. Some analysts suggest chocolate may end up a luxury product, at least for the near future, as sellers like Hershey (Oh no! I love my Kisses) and Mondelez raise prices.
In March, cocoa futures reached 12k per kilogram, or 12m naira per metric ton (~$9.6k), more than three times its price in the last quarter of 2023 and nearly five times more than in the last quarter of 2022. For farmers in West Africa, where the majority of the globe’s cocoa is grown, the higher prices have been a mixed blessing. While rejoicing over the soaring rates, they’ve been held back by severe weather, rising rents, and government price regulations. Some farmers have invested in their farms, hoping the record prices will continue for this fall’s harvest.
In 2022, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine led to roughly half of Europe’s fertilizer production going dormant. Fertilizers became cost-prohibitive to most West African farmers who stopped using fertilizer completely.
At the same time, radical weather
patterns didn’t help. El Niño brought heavy rainfall followed by heat and drought, which absolutely devastated cacao trees. Cacao trees grow fruits called pods that are filled with cocoa seeds (or beans) that can be processed into chocolate.
By early 2024, months after the fall harvest, it became clear farmers had far fewer crops than normal. Compared to the originally predicted output for the 2023-24 season, cocoa production is expected to fall by:
• 40% in Ghana
• 30% in Nigeria
In Côte d’Ivoire, the first quarter output this year was 29% lower than the same period in 2023. One farmer in Nigeria ended up yielding two metric tons of cocoa last year, about one metric ton less than normal. “You work the same, the trees just yield less,” Olowolagba Rafiu shares.
In 2023, cocoa sold at an estimated 50% more than it had the year before in Nigeria, but the increase wasn’t enough to protect farmers from the country’s severe inflation and economic malaise. By the time farmers are done tending to expenses and getting ready for a new growing season, many of them do not have any expendable
income left.
Countries like Cameroon and Ghana set fixed prices for cocoa farmers called farm gates. When prices are low, these measures help protect farmers, most of whom do not earn a living wage in Ghana. The farm gates were set before the market spiked, with prices for farmers in those countries at about one-third of what cocoa fetches on the open market.
On top of that, rent and property rates have increased.
In the past years, Olowolagba Rafiu has paid an annual rent of 150k naira (~$120) on three hectares of farmland. This year, his landlords asked for 500k naira, and he was able to negotiate down to 350k. Baba typically pays a tax of 30k naira on his land; this year he’ll be paying over 100k naira.
To add to the drama, during last year’s harvest season, theft got so bad that farmers in some communities set up security task forces to prevent pods from being stolen directly on trees in the forests. Some farmers would come out to their fields in the rising and find all your trees stripped bare.
I know, right? I might have to start rationing my chocolate intake.
The guru always echoing the mantra “Life Is Too Short to Wear Boring Clothes!”, the Super Chic Toronto Fashion Week held at the Toronto Don Valley Hotel on April 15th, turned a typical Sunday into a spectacular affair of style and creativity. The event, highlighted the vibrant colours and innovative designs, showcased the much-anticipated 2024 spring collections from renowned fashion houses Bella Fashion Designs, Francesca Milano, Bindi Fashion Design, and Ohhh So Swag, offering an exhilarating preview of the trends set to dominate the seasons.
Founded by the Florida-based Bella Fashion Designs, Super Chic Fashion Week has evolved into a significant platform uniting both burgeoning and established designers, models, and creatives from across the globe. The Toronto event marked one of 24 annual showcases organized by Super
Online gaming and streaming are supposed to be a fun space for gamers and streamers to enjoy playing the games they love, achieve great opportunities from them, and connect with others alike. However, prevalent racism and other toxic issues within the online gaming community have made the community an unsafe space for those who
Chic, stretching across the Americas and Europe. According to Rachel Marvilli, Chief Financial Officer of Super Chic Fashion Week, the event aims to boost brand recognition while providing a dynamic stage for artistic expression. “Our shows are more than just catwalks; they’re about choreography, innovation, and setting trends,” Marvilli emphasized during the event. This year’s runway sizzled with the energy of approximately 40 models, bringing to life the designers’ visions for not only women’s wear but also men’s and children’s fashion. The collections ranged from everyday chic to sophisticated elegance, ensuring a style for every occasion and echoing the diverse, cosmopolitan spirit of Toronto itself.
Kevon Campbell, an international model who has been with Super Chic for over a year, shared his exhilarating experience. “Each piece I wear is a reflection of my personality; it’s about more than fashion— it’s about building confidence and pushing
only want to have fun, and many are calling for the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) to address these toxic issues.
Melanin Gamers is a gaming community founded by Annabel Ashalley-Anthony, with 4,000 registered members. It is also a change-maker organization established to address the need for more diversity and representation in the video game industry.
Ashalley-Anthony has witnessed a handful of issues within the industry. Along with racism, some of the other problems include bullying and trolls making discriminatory comments towards other gamers based on their gender, orientation, or general cruelty. For Ashalley-Anthony, it’s extreme in her experience, as people can see what she looks like due to her having her camera on - which leads to these trolls making unwant-
boundaries,” he stated, affirming the personal growth and exposure the platform has afforded him.
Newcomer Brianna Bovdot also expressed her delight with the inclusivity and excitement of her first runway show. “It was an amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and truly embrace the modeling world. I felt right at home with every step I took on that runway,” Bovdot remarked, hinting at her aspirations to turn modeling into a full-time career.
Further adding to the unique flair of the event, Sancia Thompson, CEO of Ohhh So Swag, shared her brand’s philosophy, rooted in confidence, music, and faith. Having transitioned from a career in law to fashion, Thompson’s story is a testament to following one’s passion, a message she hopes to embed within every piece of her collection. “This show is a crucial step for gaining exposure and connecting deeply with my audience,” she explained.
As Super Chic Fashion Week con -
ed comments to her regarding her race and gender. Although it tends to come as a surprise to some about these issues, recognizing that there is a problem is the first step. A few methods Ashalley-Anthony uses to tackle these issues is through organizing workshops and panel talks. She also launched The Watch with Leo Burnett, a campaign designed to eliminate racism within the video gaming world. The Watch’s purpose is to teach organizations to call out the serious issues within the community, have transparency on how and when to tackle these problems and educate individuals to take accountability for how they treat others online.
“Eliminating it is obviously the goal, but teaching the lessons is the first step,” said Ashalley-Anthony, who said that mak-
tinues to innovate and expand, the next stops are Miami and Toronto for the summer, promising to unveil an enticing array of resort and swimwear. Toronto’s fashion enthusiasts and the global community alike eagerly anticipate these upcoming events, ready to embrace new trends and celebrate the relentless spirit of creativity and style that Super Chic Fashion Week champions.
For fashion aficionados unable to attend the show, pieces from the collections will be available at Bella Fashion Design’s showroom in South Florida, with options catering to various budgets, ensuring everyone can partake in the joy and confidence that comes with great fashion. Stay tuned, as the journey of style continues to unfold, promising more surprises, more breakthroughs, and of course, more fabulous fashion. Additional information can be obtained at www.bellafashiondesignsshop.com or on their social media platforms.
ing people aware, as many enter these gaming spaces unaware of the discrimination occurring. Ashalley-Anthony said it would be beneficial and game-changing for the ERSB to encompass the online aspect of what happens when people play these games. It will also be good for organizations to understand the type of culture their games create.
While Ashalley-Anthony is grateful to see her projects receive embracement, having her work embraced by the ERSB is the ultimate goal. Gamers and streamers enjoy doing what they love. However, everyone deserves to play in a gaming space that is safe and free of any toxicity.
Ashalley-Anthony also created a petition to help bring more awareness to what needs to change within the gaming community.
It was an unforgettable day filled with motivational: speakers, inspirational presentations and influential discussions. It was an exciting, enriching and enjoyable day at the second LEGUP symposium on Friday, April 12th, 2024. The over 200 attendants present at the Marriott Downtown of Toronto Eaton Centre were treated to: insightful financial advice, impactful personal stories of resilience and success, and deeply engaging and interactive discussions.
David Griffiths-President and Founder of Brothers Who Care deserves high praise, genuine commendation and real acknowledgement for putting together not just an event, but a movement toward: financial, psychological and economic transformation of the Black community. The support of the volunteers and ambassadors paid off in the level of success.
The importance of each letter in the acronym LEGUP is vital in the aim of the symposium:
• Learn money: Foundational knowledge on currency and the role it plays in our society
• Earn money: Aspects of a pay cheque, multiple income sources, basic budgeting tips
• Grow money: Invest in real estate, pool funds and business, stocks, bonds and mutual funds
• Utilize money: Understand how money works, along with spending and advanced money management tips
• Perceive money: The psychology of money, stigma around debt and using it to build wealth
It was fitting that the theme chosen for the 2024 Symposium was “Hye Won Hye,” which translates to “That which does not burn.” The 2024 Symposium builds on the theme of 2023 Symposium, “He Who Does Not Know, Can Know.” The promo material states, “Wealth is about having the ability to do what you want, with whom you want, for as long as you want. It is all about HOW!”
The powerful Adinkra symbol was a fitting one. It represents toughness, imperishability, and endurance. This symbol serves as an inspiration to others to be tough in difficult times and endure hardships that may come.
The schedule of the symposium was divided into five chapters:
Journey
The day started with the land acknowledgement (read by Michelle Linares) and opening remarks by David Griffiths and AL Ramsey of TD. Dr. Vibe moderated the ensuing discussion titled “Craving our Financial Future,” with Uncle Louis March. Uncle Louis is a well-known community advocate and activist and founder of the Zero Gun Violence Movement. Uncle Lois spoke about the importance of self-determination and self-reliance as expounded by Marcus Garvey’s United Negro Improvement Association (UNIA). He focused on the: significance of being the pilot of your own life, pursuing your goals and blowing up the box instead of thinking outside of it.
He states, “Understand that your wealth that you gained through education, learning, practice and failure are not only going to help you, but your family and community. People are going to tell you to think outside the box. Be careful when you use those things with me, because I will challenge you. Stop thinking outside the box. If you want to make a difference, blow up the box! Are you ready for that? This is an opportunity to look at other possibilities and other opportunities.”
Chapter 2: Money Fitness Behind Wealth
This chapter focused on the importance of financial well-being which transcends hav-
ing access to money but involves a healthy interaction with it. Participants learned about ways to creatively conceptualize money and practical strategies to improve their financial fitness. The speakers were: Alina Ali, Nuna Francisco and Ampai Thammachak.
The session on “A Healthy Relationship With Money” featured Latanya Housen, Regional Manager, Black Community Business Development of TD Bank Group and Jermaine Dacres, Financial Planner at TD Wealth. Their presentation on money management focused on three rules on budgeting: prioritizing your money, looking forward, adjusting and re-aligning. Having smart goals is key to creating a budget. Five steps were noted as important in this process and creative ways of improving your credit score.
There were three breakout session which are listed below:
• Lead your money: This session focuses on strategies and ideas to invest money in different investments.
• Entrepreneurial mindset: This session focuses on the key components such as: Innovation techniques, problem-solving strategies and fostering resilience.
• Craft your identify to define your destiny: This session emphasizes the importance of developing and marketing your personal brand in the highly competitive job world.
Chapter 3: LEGUP Roadmap to Wealth
There were three breakout sessions:
• Overcoming adversity: Omar Wolf Allison shared stories of rising above setbacks through resilience and faith.
• The LEGUP Den Showcase: This was led by Abdel Ali, a VP and business owner. He showed participants some of the best strategies to pitch transformational business ideas by sharing success stories.
• Building a power network: This session was led by Dionne England who
focused on the importance of visions, ambition, aspirations and ideas that can be utilized to build powerful networks.
Chapter 4: The LEGUP Mental Health Hour
This session was moderated by Tychon Carter Newman (Motivator Speaker and Content Creator) and featured panelists: Anandie Talfie (Regional Retail Manager at Andrew Peller Limited. Inclusion Council Member. Advocate of Mental Wellness), Link Kabadyundi (Founder and Community Builder) and David Griffiths.
Chapter 5: The LEGUP Wealth Soiree: The symposium wrapped up with a: motivational, inspirational and informational piece by Greg Birkitt. Burkitt is an educator and spoken word artist who left the audience spellbound by the way he connected financial wealth to psychological and emotional health. Jay Smooth (Toronto-based saxophonist and international performer) serenaded and entertained the crowd during dinner.
Al Ramsay, VP and Head 2SLGBTQ & Black Customer Segment at TD writes, “There is a strong connection between our financial security and overall health and with dedicated, empowered leadership and a focus on sustainable equity we will create an environment where individuals can collaborate and realize their full potential.”
The symposium also featured artist: metal sculptor Wayne Smile, multidisciplinary visual artist Chika OH, visual content producer Lance Freeman and fashion designer Narvern, and vendors: Afrika Designs, African Royalty, Ruqayya Ocid Perfumes and I AM Hair Zion Collection.
Nicolle Grant (TD Ready Commitment Ambassador) who volunteered at the symposium writes, “The many speakers and panelists did an incredible job of being authentic and sharing their: wisdom, insight, and experience in managing health and wealth. Special shout out to Simone Jennifer Smith for leading the charge in helping to make the day a success.”
Finally, vocational skills are being valued and viewed as necessary and relevant
Back-to-school shopping this year might entail a tool belt and goggles instead of textbooks and binders.
In the past, trades were often regarded with less prestige compared to white-collar professions; they were more so viewed as paths for those who couldn’t excel academically. However, there’s been a notable shift in perspective. Trades are now being recognized as avenues for entrepreneurial advancement, offering lucrative opportunities for skilled individuals.
This paradigm shift is reflected in the increasing number of younger workers choosing skilled trade occupations. As more young people opt for trades, it indi-
cates a changing perception of success and fulfillment in the workforce.
According to National Student Clearinghouse data, enrollment at US community colleges that focused on vocational skills rose 16% in 2023, to its highest level since 2018. The number of students enrolled in four-year colleges rose just 0.8%.
There are certain factors that are enticing young people in the U.S. to explore options outside of traditional schooling:
• The price to attend traditional fouryear colleges has surged. Some private colleges and universities recently announced $90k+ annual tuition for the 2024-25 school year.
• Families are facing a record amount of student loan debt, with an estimated ~$100B of new loans to be issued in 2024, up from $98B in 2023.
• More than half of college grads get jobs after graduation that have nothing to do with their degrees.
• The US construction industry alone has a shortage of 500k+ workers as
older tradespeople retire, driving up labour costs.
In a Jobber survey of 1k Americans ages 18-20, 75% said they would be interested in paid training at a vocational school. Adding to the temptation, 2023 was the fourth consecutive year that the median pay for new construction workers was higher than that of new hires in professional services, or information industries. The median annual pay for new construction workers rose 5.1% to $48k in 2023, compared to new professional hires whose pay was $39.5k.
The new trend means that younger workers are entering skilled trade occupations:
• The number of carpenters in the US grew from 1.2 million in 2013 to 1.3 million in 2023, while the median age fell from 42.2 to 40.9.
• There were 959k electricians in 2023, up from 730k in 2013, but their median age fell by 2.9 years.
More young people in the trades means
skilled professions are getting a rebrand, and technology is helping. Some vocational programs are replacing outdated tools with high-tech solutions like robots. Speaking of tech, one last reason some are turning to skilled trades: AI. The same Jobber’s survey found that 34% of respondents felt trade careers could offer more job security than desk jobs as generative AI takes off.
This trend holds significant implications for the future. It suggests a potential resurgence in craftsmanship, innovation, and practical expertise, which are essential for driving progress in various industries. Additionally, a growing skilled trades workforce could address labour shortages in sectors like construction and manufacturing, contributing to economic growth and stability.
Overall, the embrace of trades as entrepreneurial endeavors heralds a promising future. Finally, vocational skills are being valued and viewed as necessary, and relevant, even during the rage of the digital age.
MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com TC REPORTER
It is no secret that homelessness is strangling this city. In last week’s front-page article titled “Almost Homeless” we highlighted this plight, and this time I am back to shed more light on this very dark road that Toronto is traveling down.
Recent city data shows the number of tents in ravines, parks, and under bridges is more than double last spring’s count. City outreach workers have counted 82 tents or other makeshift shelters set up citywide (March 15th, 2023), which has gone up to 202 on the same date this year and counting.
Things have gotten so bad that veteran Toronto outreach worker Diana Chan McNally said, “It’s just an overall explosion in homelessness.”
Here are some of the locations
in Justin Trudeau’s Canada: Clarence Square Park, Milliken Park in Scarborough, the parklands along the west-end Humber River, and Rowntree Mills Park by the banks of the Humber River north of Finch.
The skyrocketing cost of rent coupled with a lack of housing, especially in the last four years, has played a vital role in all this.
Greg Cook, a long-time outreach worker, revealed that 1,056 people entered shelters in February versus the 864 who moved out. An average of 158 people each day that month called to find a bed but were turned away. The city count can be slightly off because some homeless encampments are hidden.
Chan McNally noted that this affects longtime Torontonians who have lost their homes and also recent refugees as well, “There’s also this ongoing process of more and more people falling into homelessness,” she said. As we continue on the homeless ride even the TTC Toronto Transit Commission is being made to feel the bite of shared hopelessness in Trudeau’s Canada. Imagine buses now being used as overnight shelters in
Toronto Canada, a place that refers to the Caribbean as third-world countries.
Toronto’s Mayor Olivia Chow said, “We have never had so many people living in shelters, over 10,000 people so for us every day is a challenge.”
Lorraine Lam from Shelter Housing Justice Network said, “I may know somebody who rides the subway to stay warm throughout the day and as long as they can at night, or going to the mall, libraries, some folks are sitting at the hospital emergency rooms just waiting for an option.”
This hardly sounds like a developed first-world country to me!!!
Rafi Aaron of Interfaith Coalition to Fight Homelessness said, “We need to have continuously open 24-hour warming centers throughout the entire winter, serving hot meals with low barriers that people will come in and use them.”
“We need to support people in encampments. Turning away this many people, evicting people only forces them into ravines,” Aaron said.
Mark Aston, Executive Director of Covenant House said, “Last year we saw 60% in the number of visits to our drop-in center, and a 30% increase over-
all in youths showing up at our doors needing emergency support, and this year we are seeing this trend continue.”
In the meantime, Faith Lomas, a 19-year-old woman who has been homeless since she was 17, confesses to a news source that she rides the TTC continuously just trying to get away from the deep freeze of “old man winter” in Toronto.
The icing on this cake of homelessness is hunger, something homeless folks know all too well. In 2023, nearly two million Canadians accessed food banks and one million more Canadians are expected to use a food bank for the first time this year, and as they say, the story continues.
In the meantime, Justin Trudeau’s regime recently announced it has committed 80 million dollars of the taxpayer’s money, sending Canadian soldiers to Jamaica to train a multinational force to meddle in Haiti’s business, under the disguise of peacekeeping. All this, while many Canadians are “Homeless and Hungry”.
Can someone please tell me that this is not by design?
His films were not merely narratives; they were struggles, and triumphs of the African-Caribbean community
simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
There were environments where he was dismissed and disrespected, and not once did he stop being who he was. He had a way of connecting with people, listening to people, hearing people and engaging with them. Those who speak lovingly of him say he will be most remembered for saying things that matter in his work. For taking a stand.
He fought so hard, and he put so much time and energy into getting stories made. His body of work was one that shared voices that were otherwise not being heard in the Canadian film landscape. He had natural talent; he had charisma.
It was a rainy, chilly April 17th, 2024, and the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper had been invited by Humanity Ova Vanity to share in a night with Regent Park film festival, Bipoc TV & Film, and Reel Canada to celebrate the work of an amazing Jamaican-Canadian filmmaker whose talents have made an important and intentional stamp on the landscape of the history of African Caribbean cinema in Canada. It was the night that I was formally introduced to the brilliant Charles Officer Charles Officer told stories from a nuanced perspective that originated from his experience of being a Canadian born child of Jamaican parents. His life
was a mix of poetry and pain, and he learned that stories and visuals could help to speak in ways some couldn’t. His curiosity and intentionality as a human and writer-director has left an indelible mark in the pages of Canadian Film history.
Charles was a versatile and prolific filmmaker whose works typically focused on the experiences of Black Canadians. Initially an actor, he went on to direct, write and produce feature films, documentaries and TV series.
Charles directed four episodes of “The Porter,” the CBC/BET drama about the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters — North America’s first Black-led union — that won 12 awards at the Canadian Screen Awards, including: best original music, production, costume design, best writing and best drama series. Another well-known article of work is his documentary Unarmed Verses, which told the story of Toronto Community Housing residents who were uprooted while their neighbourhood was revitalized.
Charles’s 2008 debut feature, Nurse. Fighter. Boy, premiered at TIFF and was nominated for 10 Genie Awards, the precursor to the Canadian Screen Awards. On the 17th, I had a chance to witness this creative genius on screen with his film “Akilla’s Escape.” In a crimenoir about the urban child-soldier, Akilla Brown captures a fifteen-year-old Jamaican boy in the aftermath of an armed robbery. Over one grueling night, Akilla confronts a cycle of generational violence he thought he escaped.
The movie starts with the dimly lit streets of the city sprawling, a concrete jungle where danger lurks in every shadow. The humid air is heavy with tension as we are gliding through the urban
landscape, the distant sounds of reggae music mingling with the rumble of passing cars.
Charles kept me captivated, weaving the narrative of Akilla Brown’s journey. It served as a potent testament to the multifaceted impact of film. Through the lens of urban child soldiers and Caribbean cultural intricacies, the audience was drawn into a world where real-life struggles and dysfunctional family dynamics collided.
Akilla’s forty-year-old existence, straddling between the legitimacy of his cannabis operation and the shadow of his family’s criminal legacy, epitomizes the complexities of identity and morality. As fate intertwines Akilla’s path with that of Sheppard, a mute teenager ensnared in the web of violence, the film delves deep into themes of redemption, legacy, and the cyclical nature of trauma.
Saul Williams’s commanding performance as Akilla, alongside Thamela Mpumlwana’s poignant portrayal of Sheppard, and Donisha Prendergast as the dedicated aunt, brings an authenticity that grips viewers from start to finish. Through Officer’s direction, the film becomes more than mere entertainment; it becomes a mirror reflecting the harsh realities of societal constructs and personal struggles, urging viewers to confront the demons of our past and present.
The screening was followed by a panel with lead actors: Thamela Mpumlwana, Donisha Prendergast, and co-writer Motion and Producer Jake Yanowski. It was moderated by Sarah Tai Black.
Throughout the talk, I learned more about the legacy of this incredible African-Caribbean Canadian filmmaker whose work resonates not just through the lens of cinema, but through the very
fabric of storytelling itself. As a: director, writer, producer, actor, cinematographer, and editor, his multifaceted talents illuminated the experiences of AfricanCaribbean Canadians in a way that was both captivating and authentic.
His films were not merely narratives; they were vivid tapestries woven from the threads of shared experiences, struggles, and triumphs of the African Canadian community. Through his lens, audiences are transported into worlds rich with cultural nuances, social commentary, and the universal human condition.
Beyond his technical prowess and creative vision, it was his boundless energy that truly set him apart. His passion for storytelling was infectious, drawing people from all walks of life into his orbit. Whether collaborating with fellow artists, mentoring aspiring filmmakers, or engaging with audiences, his presence radiated an undeniable magnetism.
In every frame he captured, every line he penned, and every character he brought to life, he not only entertained, but also challenged perceptions and sparked conversations. His body of work serves as a testament to the power of storytelling to bridge divides, inspire change, and celebrate the richness of diversity.
Though he may have left us, his legacy endures—an eternal flame that continues to illuminate the path for future generations of filmmakers. As we reflect on his contributions, let us honour his memory by embracing the spirit of creativity, inclusivity, and resilience that defined his remarkable journey.
Steps to Justice; Inmates buried in the Hinds County Pauper’s Field without their families’ knowledge
SIMONE SMITH
simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
This week, I want to provide an update on a story that closed 2024 on a painfully obvious note; that to some people; some lives seem to matter more than others.
As a journalist, I refuse to turn a blind eye to the silent screams of those whose experiences are relegated to mere footnotes in history. I refuse to succumb to the allure of sensationalism, to prioritize clicks over compassion. For every fleeting moment of attention, there are countless untold stories languishing in the shadows, waiting to be heard, waiting to be acknowledged.
This is one such story. It speaks of lives fractured by trauma, of individuals thrust into
County Pauper’s Field without their families’ knowledge. Each man was reported missing, but it took months — and for Hankins, over a year — for them to find out. The families did not know what had happened until NBCNews. com reporters broke the news. Imagine finding out that your family member who you had not heard from was found buried! People all across America were scratching their heads in disbelief about what had happened in Jackson, Mississippi, with this pauper’s graveyard.
Ben Crump, along with attorney Dennis Sweet, a Jackson native, stepped up to represent the families. Through his work, nationally renowned civil rights and personal injury attorney Ben Crump has spearheaded a legal movement to better protect the rights of marginalized citizens. He has led landscape-changing civil rights cases and represented clients in a wide range of areas including civil rights, personal injury, labor and employment, class actions, and more.
Around the time of the discovery, a press conference was held at the Stronger Hope Baptist Church in Jackson where the families pleaded with city and county officials to explain why they weren’t notified. They also wanted to know why the deaths of each man weren’t properly investigated by the Jackson Police Department.
A further report from NBC News provided a list of names of 215 people who were buried in the same pauper’s field where Moore, Hankins and Wade were.
On Thursday, April 4th, 2024, Attorneys Ben Crump and co-counsel Dennis Sweet released a statement following the announcement from the U.S. Department of Justice that they would provide technical assistance to the Jackson Police Department and Hinds County Coroner’s Office with next-of-kin death notifications related to those buried in Jackson pauper’s field.
Attorneys Crump and Sweet have released the following statement: “We thank the Department of Justice, under Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke’s leadership, for taking the steps to address the ongoing issues in Jackson related to the pauper’s field. Our team has been on the ground investigating the situation since Dexter Wade and other horrific cases came to light. We intend to provide any information that might be helpful to the DOJ through this process.”
“The families impacted by local government officials’ shortcomings are grateful that the federal government heard their cries for change and will be intervening. It is our hope that this federal intervention will reestablish trust within the Jackson community and their local agencies.”
The technical assistance, which will be provided by the Civil Rights Division, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi, will examine: JPD’s General Order on Missing Persons, and new General Order on Death Notifications, and provide recommendations on implementation and training. The
technical assistance to the Hinds County Coroner’s Office will provide recommendations on policies and training related to locating nextof-kin.
Under Title VI, the department is working to make sure that law enforcement agencies and other recipients of federal funding take affirmative steps to comply with their civil rights obligations by offering technical assistance to facilitate Title VI compliance. The point of technical assistance is to help agencies update and/or enhance their policies and practices, while strengthening the connection between law enforcement agencies and communities of color and other stakeholders.
In the fleeting echoes of media coverage, amidst the constant churn of headlines, there exist narratives, stories etched in the shadows, barely acknowledged before fading into obscurity. Yet, these are the tales that demand our attention.
In bearing witness to these narratives, in amplifying the voices of the marginalized and the forgotten, I want to continue to honour the families in this story. I refuse to allow their struggles to be relegated to the periphery of our collective consciousness. I refuse to let their pain be consigned to the annals of indifference. This is not just another story—it is a call to action, a reminder of our shared humanity, and a testament to the enduring power of empathy in the face of adversity.
steven@carib101.com
TC COLUMNIST
with payments in the hundreds of millions to
billions of dollars over time, while the tobacco Industry harvested from the smoking public trillions of dollars in sales and profits. How much of that money went to: politicians’ reelection campaigns, greased government committee’s hands, halting decisive decisions that would have saved many lives in the run? Politicians and government had been pressured to do something, anything about this scourge.
Today various governments in Canada and the USA are attempting to make decisions that will affect multiple industries but can ultimately save many lives. Have you heard of ‘forever chemicals?’ They are a class of toxic chemicals, perhaps over 10,000 variations of products, and these chemicals are harming the earth, and each and every one of us. Known as PFAS, these forever chemicals are a direct danger because until other products created by mankind, these products’ chemical makeup is so strong it will not break down, making it impossible to pass through the environmental processes of breakdown and absorption into the eco-sphere.
Most are toxic and have become agents that cause multiple health problems such as: cancers, hormone disruptions, immune system problems and liver disease. The forever chemicals pass into the environment, our soil, water and air to be consumed, absorbed by humanity. The government knows this, has issued
a draft recommendation to designate the entire class of chemicals as toxic, dangerous to society and hopefully stop using these chemicals. These chemicals can be found in your non-stick cookware, items that are waterproofed, stain repellents to carpeting chemicals. They are everywhere.
The United Nations Health Organization has shown that there has been an increase in the number of cancer cases within the age group below 50 years old. What do you think is causing these cancers? PFAS ‘s! Slowly absorbed chemical toxins in our food, water and even the air we breathe.
Will the government continue studying these items, as they did with tobacco products? Why do governments not act in relatively urgent time periods?
The business-industry sector has undue sway with our elected officials in many ways. They create jobs and employ millions throughout the world. They donate legally and illegally to elected officials. The threat of a corporation supporting a politician’s opponent over another can cause policies unfriendly to ending toxic threats to be side-barred or forgotten in committee studies taking years to accomplish something.
Our legal systems protect industry as it does each of us. Corporations are considered living entities like you and I, so they have rights
that can be often superior to ours legally.
It is easier to ignore, or over-study such issues, allowing elected officials to bypass these problems, while giving corporations time to legally: delay, denounce and elongate and chance of stopping these toxins from spreading. Profit and power are the main issues here, not the public’s safety.
Last year 3M settled a lawsuit from over 300 municipalities who found these chemicals in their drinking water. The settlement could reach $12.5 billion in Canada. 3M says it will stop using PFAS by 2025. Last June, the Chemistry Industry Association sent a letter to the Environment and Climate Change Ministry in Canada asking that these chemicals not be classified all together as an entire class, but dealt with individually, on a case-by-case basis. Delay, denounce and over study, with an added when in doubt send in the lawyers.
Europe leads the struggle to stop using these chemicals, using all means necessary to force industry to change their ways. California has put limits on the use of these chemicals in food packaging and banned their use in all things concerning children. Canadian and American corporations made claims that a North American solution should be found. More delay tactics.
Let’s see what happens in the next few decades shall we?
It’s disheartening to witness the trajectory of our society. There’s a palpable sense that something isn’t right, that a subtle but insidious indoctrination is taking place, particularly targeting our most vulnerable: the youth. Some believe that our youth are being fed narratives that shape their perceptions, often without them even realizing it.
In the midst of this, stories emerge quietly, slipping under the radar of public awareness. One such instance occurred recently, unbeknownst to many of us. This quiet alteration had far-reaching implications, with the power to shape the minds of future generations in ways we might not fully comprehend until it’s too late.
Last week, I received an email from Gregory Tomchyshyn (CitizenGO) with an update on a story that our esteemed Journalist Michael Thomas, had brought to our attention a few months ago.
In February of this year (2024), Janine Stephanie Penner shared that her son in grade 10 was given a “Gay porn graphic flip book at school as a method of learning how to use condoms and in addition, received 15 condoms and a wooden pecker for practice.”
Your silence
The book distributed to students is called, “Who’s Got The Condom?” Both the front and back of the book include a sexually graphic image of what looks like an older male laying nude with a condom on, and a younger male, also nude, about to engage in a sex act.
Although the purpose of this book was to serve as a resource for condom education, the majority of the pages are blank of text, directions, or any other information. Instead, the flip book is filled with illustrations that merely depict a sequence of increasing motions in which the younger man masturbates the elder man. It then introduces a condom and flips to show the two male individuals having sex.
The Virden Collegiate Institute’s principal, Mark Keown, has issued an “apologetic” statement regarding the distribution of sex education kits that included: fake genitals, condoms, and pornographic flipbooks by the Sexuality Education Resource Centre (SERC) and Public Health. Principal Keown mentioned SERC was invited into the school to give the students in grades 9 and 10 the presentation.
They also were invited to place up a lunch hour display to distribute these kits to the grade 11 and 12 students, who “were not part of the presentations.”
In his statements to parents, which were also published online, Principal Keown speaks to students being able “To preview or take if they chose to” the pornographic “flip book ‘Who’s Got The Condom?’”
He said that originally, public health nurses who serve the school and community are the ones who have done those presentations. During the pandemic they became too busy with other duties. “That’s when the
crimes
SERC staff was added in. They became those experts who came in and did the presentations for our students.”
He went on to say of the presenters, “They’re not necessarily certified teachers … as a teacher, we always try to deliver the factual neutral point and allow kids to have perspectives on that.”
This year was different. “I think in this scenario, there were some examples throughout the presentations where there was some personal bias, or personal perspectives that were not necessarily in the [curriculum].”
Principal Keown acknowledged his responsibility as school administrator and expressed concern over the presenter’s decision to make that material available in Virden Collegiate. “I wasn’t aware of that information being made available to our students over the lunch hour, and that’s where the apology letter went out. We should have screened that and been a part of that process, knowing that was information that was going to be made available for our kids.”
Given this backlash, the Fort la Boss Superintendent of Schools instructed all schools under its jurisdiction, including Virden Collegiate Institute, to “Postpone any further presentations by SERC until further notice and a review.”
While this apology and pause is good news, the victory is just one battle won against the much larger war against pornographic materials infiltrating our tax-funded schools. We must remain vigilant to ensure that these types of materials and presentations are no longer allowed to slip into schools under the radar.
humanity automatically makes you an accomplice
family, gender ideology, and stealing children from their mothers are promoted under the term “domestic violence protection.” Make sure there are no fathers in the homes, or even if there are, he is muted, or scared of having his authority labelled as toxic masculinity.
“Many people wonder: who is responsible for the process of self-destruction of human society? Today, to some extent, the responsibility falls on everyone. On some more than others, but on everyone. Why? Because people are silently accepting the current changes, which are literally crimes against humanity.”
The above is a quote from Elijah plus the Patriarch of the Byzantine Catholic Patriarchate Methodius OSBMr + Timothy OSBMr and the Secretary Bishops. Now let us examine why this quote was made using presentday society as the barometer.
A good example of this nonsense here in Canada is children having the right to choose their gender while parents are being threatened with jail time if they intervene. It’s these so-called hate speech laws, and so-called laws to keep independent thinkers from accessing worldwide news and posting it on their social media platforms.
“Parliament gets presented with an unintelligible text, which is impossible to decode. Besides, the MPs usually pass multiple laws at the same time; hence they have no possibility and time to find out what they are supposed to pass altogether,” said the Patriarch of the Byzantine Catholic Patriarchate. Here are some of the crimes (that these socalled laws that are drafted and eventually passed) are designed to hide.
Feminization, the breakdown of
In Norway, 70-100 stolen children commit suicide every year and the information about it is marked as confidential. In some cases, foster family is a business where children are being passed around until they are mentally bankrupt, oppressed, and eventually killed. Based on the financial status of the socalled foster parents, these cases never make the news.
We are seeing anti-discriminatory laws included in the legislation allowing mass discrimination of the majority. Systematic demoralization of children from the time they attend kindergarten is covered by the term sexual education.
“Children are robbed of their own identity by pounding in their minds that they are neither a girl, nor a boy. Consequently, they undergo hormonal therapy with a catastrophic prospect of gender-altering surgery. The society is silent about it and therefore has a shared accountability for all these crimes,” shared the Byzantine Bishops.
Some of these schools have hundreds of students. My questions are, why don’t these parents join hands and say enough is enough, instead of just one or two? Canadians, have we become a society of parents who are continually failing our children? When are we going to wake up?
Here are some of the trials our babies face daily. “Even before the child is born, mothers are forced to have it killed. Almost every mother is intimidated by having a child with so-called Down Syndrome. In reality, this is a mental terror based on lies,” said Byzantine Bishops. “As soon as the children are born, they are administered vaccines, which cause: autism, loss of immunity, loss of fertility, auto -
immune diseases, cancer, etc.”
Again, where are the collective voices of our men and women saying hell no to all this? There is an enormous amount of the money that pediatricians make from the vaccines they force on these innocent children. These child doctors know full well the side effects of such vaccines, but instead, they are focused on their next: Porsche, cottage, and furnishing their high-society wives and husbands with all the luxury items, while they poison our children, and what do we do? NOTHING.
The average North American child doctor has 1,500 patients; if he or she gets most of them to take all the child vaccines, he or she is rewarded with at least $360.000. That’s way more than their annual salary. This should explain the push to vaccinate your babies at all costs. This information can be found in the BlueCross/BlueShield Doctor Incentive Booklet. Every child that gets the 24 vaccines is worth a $400 payout to that doctor.
The abuse of medicine has now become the new normal. This happens under the cover of The World Health Organization (WHO); projects are being imposed on states to reduce human population. “We can expect the declaration of the next pseudo-pandemic followed by experimental vaccination. This not only poses a mortal danger to human life but also carries the threat of concealed chipping,” said Byzantine Bishops.
From Smartphone addiction (aka making our children braindead), the digitization of everything (aka spying on us), intervention in our food supply (aka poisoning us with GMOs), to the falsification of science for satanic agendas (aka the safe and effective COVID brew), there is no hiding place from this war that is unleashed on world citizens by corporations and so-called governments. The big question is, are we going to give up or fight? Canadians, choose as if your life depended on it, because it does.
W. GIFFORDJONES MD
DIANA GIFFORD-JONES
TC
HEALTH COLUMNISTReaders often ask me what it takes to reach 100. My answer is always the same. Good genes. Good luck, and a lifetime of good choices about my health. “What about your daily regimen of high dose vitamin C and lysine?” That’s right, I say. It’s my forever formula for health and longevity.
I’ve recommended all kinds of things to readers, like: stepping on the bathroom scale every day, taking good care of teeth, getting sufficient fibre in the diet, and being wary of medication. My website has thousands of my articles posted, and although maybe not all of them have aged as well as I have been fortunate
to do, readers can find all my recommendations there.
I’ve lived by my words, but above all else, it is the combination of vitamin C and lysine that have kept me alive this long – and especially after I experienced a heart attack at the age of 74. My doctors told me to take cholesterol-lowering drugs (CLDs). I know the side effects of those drugs, and I had interviewed Dr. Linus Pauling, twotime Nobel laurate, about his research on high doses of vitamin C.
In keeping with my conviction that alternative and natural approaches can be better remedies to some problems than pharmaceutical drugs, I opted to pass on CLDs and take high dose vitamin C and lysine for the rest of my life.
It is a testament to that decision, that at the age of 100, I am still here to recommend my “forever formula.” CardioVibe is a high dose vitamin C and lysine powder with magnesium, coenzyme Q10, quercetin, and L-proline. This is not another fad; it’s a commonsense combination designed to provide with the best chance
for: cardiovascular health, immune system support, and longevity.
Vitamin C and lysine are two nutrients that have been individually celebrated for their immense health benefits. Their synergy, too, is nothing short of remarkable. Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a potent antioxidant that boosts the immune system, supports collagen production, and protects against oxidative damage. When Vitamin C is combined with lysine, the cardiovascular system benefits.
What else makes up my forever formula? Magnesium supports hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body. It aids in: muscle function, nerve transmission, and bone health. It plays a pivotal role in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Additionally, magnesium helps with relaxation, making it an excellent choice for stress reduction and sleep improvement.
Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a powerful antioxidant that plays a vital role in cellular energy production. As we age,
our CoQ10 levels naturally decline, which can lead to fatigue and decreased vitality for you and for your organs.
Quercetin, a bioflavonoid found in various fruits and vegetables, serves as a natural defender against inflammation and oxidative stress. L-proline is an amino acid, crucial for collagen formation.
Now, why do I call it the “forever formula?” The answer is simple – because preventing the build up of plaque in the arteries is not accomplished in one day. The miniscule doses you will get in your diet, or in a standard supplement will prevent scurvy and vitamin C deficiency, but not cardiovascular disease. High doses must be taken every day, always, for life.
I, at 100 years of age, believe in the power of science and nature to provide us with the tools for healthier, longer lives. Both science and nature are clear that high doses of vitamin C in combination with lysine assist with cardiovascular and immune health and do no harm over long-term use, unlike CLDs.
For some people, dissociation may be the only way to stay safe; a peek into your mind
“Why did I do it? Why did I pull that trigger? Was it fear? Anger? Hatred? Or was it simply survival? It’s like watching a movie. Except, I’m not in the audience. I’m the main character, but I can’t feel... anything…”
The micro-scene above (a rather drastic example) speaks to a psychological phenomenon that occurs more than we think it does. I want you to think about all the times you have had to read a text over, or read the line in your textbook over, because your mind was elsewhere, or you pulled into your driveway with no memory of the actual drive home. That’s dissociation and it happens to everyone at some point.
During traumatic situations, people sometimes experience an unexpected wave of emotional numbness, or feel like they’ve detached from reality and are having an out-of-body experience. These symptoms of disconnect describe dissociation, a defense mechanism that separates threatening feelings and ideas from the rest of someone’s psyche (mind space). Is this the reason why our minds sometimes dissociate when we’re experiencing distressing events?
Typically, the sympathetic nervous system — which is responsible for our “fight or flight” response — activates when a person is in physical danger. The sympathetic nervous system is a normally harmonized network of brain structures, nerves and hormones that, if thrown off balance, can result in serious complications. The sympathetic nervous system makes up part of the autonomic nervous system, also known as the involuntary nervous system. According to a review in
the American Journal of Pharmaceutical, without conscious direction, the autonomic nervous system regulates important bodily functions such as: heart rate, blood pressure, pupil dilation, body temperature, sweating and digestion.
According to Harvard Medical School, the sympathetic nervous system directs the body’s rapid involuntary response to dangerous or stressful situations. A flash flood of hormones boosts the body’s alertness and heart rate, sending extra blood to the muscles. Breathing quickens, delivering fresh oxygen to the brain, and an infusion of glucose is shot into the bloodstream for a quick energy boost. This response occurs so quickly that people often don’t realize it’s taken place.
Mammals, including humans, evolved to have this response, as it pushes them to survive by fighting or fleeing from danger. Dissociation is another way the nervous system is primed to respond to trauma when fight or flight appears to be too dangerous or impossible.
What dissociation does is protect someone in the moment so that they are mentally separated from a situation causing physical pain, emotional pain, or both. According to a 2017 study in the journal Current Psychiatry Reports, this coping strategy is associated with freezing and separating the person from the memory of the traumatic event, Oftentimes, victims of abuse or sexual assault report dissociation during the event, a 2015 study in the journal Medicine outlined. Some people report having foggy memories of an event after the fact, and this is because of dissociation.
In an article titled “How to Manage Dissociating” author Jade Wu Ph.D., shares that adults who hallucinate—hear or see things that aren’t there—are more likely to have experienced sexual abuse as a child. Dissociation compartmentalizes horrible events so you can survive another day. Unfortunately, dissociation doesn’t heal these psychological scars in the long term. For those who experienced childhood sexual abuse, the more
they dissociated, the more they were also likely to hurt themselves as adults (addictions, risk taking behaviour, etc).
Ruth Ellingsenan, Associate Clinical Professor of psychology at the University of Oregon, reiterated that for some people, dissociation may be the only way to stay safe when experiencing abuse. “There’s also times when trying to flee a situation could result in more hurt. For example, if you’re a child being abused, [flight] could potentially make the abuse even worse. In scenarios like this, freezing and disconnecting do more than emotionally separate someone from the stress; this response may be the best decision for survival.”
Problems can arise if people continue to dissociate even once they are separated from the intense trauma. You may struggle with daily stress, like meeting work deadlines or speaking with your peers. You may feel detached in your relationships and may find yourself distracted during what used to be usual interactions, or tasks. “It’s possible that because the disconnection from the traumatic event kept them ‘safe’ or at least detached from bad memories, this coping mechanism becomes the default for other forms of stress,” Professor Ruth shares.
So, how do you know if you are dissociating? This is an excellent question. Read over the list below, and see if any of these situations feel familiar:
• You might feel like you’re observing yourself from outside your body, or that things around you seem unreal or dreamlike.
• You have gaps in your memory, particularly of important events, or periods of time.
• You have difficulty experiencing emotions or feel detached from your emotions.
• You find yourself in a place or situation without knowing how you got there, or what you have been doing (this is a very extreme case of disassociation).
• Sometimes, you may realize that you’ve been engaging in activities, or behaviors without fully being aware of what you’re doing.
• You feel like you have different parts of yourself, or you experience shifts in your sense of identity.
Jade Wu Ph.D. made some suggestions on how to ground yourself during times that you might feel like you are dissociating.
Engage your senses
This is a classic way to keep yourself in the moment. Squeeze an ice cube in your hand. Pay attention to how your feet feel pressing on the floor. Name five things you can see right now. In short, use your body! Gain some traction by feeling, seeing, hearing, smelling, and tasting your here and now.
Pay close attention to your breathing
You can do this anywhere and the best part is nobody has to know what you’re even doing. I want you to recognize the power in breathing. Slowly breathe in your nose. Feel the sensation of the cool air as it moves into your nostrils. Then, follow the air as it enters your nose and spreads to the back of your throat. Next, slowly breathe out. Feel the contrast of the warm air and the sensation as it leaves your nostrils. Again, the sensory input keeps you connected to your body and your surroundings.
Choose an object to keep you in the present
This could truly be anything, like a photo, piece of jewelry, or any other small keepsake. Build an association between it and the present—every time you see it or touch it, remind yourself that you are in the moment. Then, when you need it, you can reach for it.
There is so much that we need to learn about how our brains work, and the more we learn, the more we can actively find ways to create the lives that we want. It all starts and ends with the mind.
Canna
is more than just a gathering—it’s an Invitation to experience the magic of the plant
simone@carib101.com
As I arrived at the secret location (it changes every time) I saw the vibrant posters, saw some familiar vendors, and a diverse group of cannabis enthusiasts. A stage at the front of the room featured: a microphone, and a banner reading “Canna Crawl” hung in the background. There was a sense of excitement and anticipation that was in the air, one that I had gotten used to, and knew I would have felt.
Attention, cannabis connoisseurs of Ontario! I want to welcome you to the 420 Festival Canna Crawl, which was held at a secret (shhhh) location on Saturday, April 20th, 2024. It is quietly becoming the heartbeat of the underground cannabis movement, where passion meets rebellion, and tradition meets innovation.
Hosted by Anthony Foster and Reena Rampersad, it was amazing to see a community united in their love for the plant, their defiance against unjust laws, and their commitment to the legacy of cannabis culture. Here, in the shadows, away from the prying eyes of the
establishment, we celebrated not just the herb itself, but the spirit of community and freedom it represents.
Imagine entering a vibrant venue pulsating with energy, where the air is infused with the scent of exotic strains and the atmosphere hums with excitement. It was a room filled with enthusiasts, connoisseurs, and newcomers alike.
Now, picture a diverse crowd, united by their shared passion for the plant, mingling and exchanging stories. From seasoned growers discussing cultivation techniques to entrepreneurs showcasing innovative products, there was something for everyone. The hosts did a great job of creating an ambiance that was inclusive, welcoming, and fostered a sense of community and camaraderie.
As I made my way through the 420 Festival Canna Crawl, I encountered a kaleidoscope of experiences. Booths adorned with colorful displays offered a glimpse into the latest trends in cannabis culture, from artisanal edibles to state-of-the-art vaporizers. Knowledgeable vendors eagerly shared their expertise, guiding me through the myriad strains and consumption methods.
It was not just about the products; it was about the connections forged and the conversations sparked. I walked in just in time to catch the panel hosted by Reena Rampersad, a lively discussion on the medicinal benefits of cannabis, the intersection of cannabis and activism, and the evolving legal landscape. It was a melting pot of ideas and perspectives, fueled by a shared appreciation for the plant’s poten -
tial to heal, inspire, and unite.
“But let us not forget the roots from which we spring, “Reena exclaimed. “The legacy cannabis distributors who paved the way for us all. These brave individuals risked it all to ensure that cannabis remained accessible to those who cherished it, and tonight, we honour them by providing a platform for their products, their stories, and their enduring passion.”
One of those individuals is someone who I am very proud of; on the stage sat Vivian Green. With GreenPort, Vivian has made history as the first woman of colour to run a cannabis company in Canada. Her goal is to build community through her business, and along the way, address some of the gaps in Canada’s cannabis sector that have historically left women and people of colour behind. “We have to take cannabis back; back to the roots. When cannabis was just a plant used to heal our aches and pains. Before people chased stock prices, and before racialized communities were targeted.”
“It’s no secret that Black and Indigenous people are more likely to be charged with weed possession than their unracialized counterparts, and repairing the damage to those communities is something I am about. In many ways, enjoying weed has been weaponized against people of colour because a “negative stereotypical narrative has wiped out all of the long histories of use from a spiritual, religious, or just a health perspective.”
It’s disheartening to witness the ongoing stigma and barriers faced by people of color in the cannabis industry. Despite its cultural significance and historical ties to com -
munities like the Caribbean, many are still marginalized, stigmatized, and disproportionately targeted by law enforcement.
There’s a glaring disparity in representation and opportunities within the cannabis sector, and it’s crucial to address this imbalance. Breaking down these barriers not only fosters economic empowerment but also acknowledges the invaluable contributions of communities who have cultivated and celebrated the plant for generations.
Rectifying this stigma requires systemic change, including policy reform, community education, and equitable access to resources and opportunities. By actively working to dismantle these barriers, we can create a more inclusive, and just industry where all communities, including the Caribbean community, can thrive and benefit from their cultural heritage.
So, my fellow enthusiasts, let us embark on this journey together. Let us explore the vast array of strains, products, and experiences that Canna Crawl has to offer. They have one coming up in July, so stay tuned. Let us reaffirm our commitment to the principles of freedom, equality, and justice that lie at the heart of our movement.
As the event drew to a close, I left with newfound knowledge, cherished memories, and perhaps a few new friends. With its warm embrace and boundless enthusiasm, Canna Crawl is more than just a gathering—it’s an invitation to experience the magic of the plant and the vibrant community that surrounds it.
paul@carib101.com
There was not much expectation and hope by education stakeholders that the Ontario provincial budget delivered on Tuesday, March 26th, 2024, would include measures to increase public education spending.
Since elected in 2018, the PC-lead provincial government has gradually decreased the amount it spent per capita on students. Data released from Ontario Finance Minister, Peter Bethlenfalvy in the budget revealed that the deficit has increased to $9.8 billion, and there is a revenue shortfall of about seven billion. Some of the positives in the budget include increase in the minimum wage, reduction in the gas tax has additional benefits for those who depend
on ODSP and senior citizens. In total, about $40.6 billion has been earmarked for education, while $190.2 billion will be spent over the next ten years on capital projects such as: highways, transit, broadband, and infrastructure.
The 83,000 strong Elementary Teachers’ Federation Union (ETFO) issued a press release on March 26th, 2024, to address concerns and issues it finds with the Ontario budget in regard to reduced spending on: programs, services and initiatives on public education.
“By once again neglecting to allocate adequate funding, the Ford government has chosen to perpetuate a crisis that continues to undermine public education. Despite a growing need to invest in Ontario’s education system, the Government persists in depriving it of the resources and support it desperately needs. This callous disregard is a daring indictment of the government’s priorities.”
The statement notes further that the impact of underfunding has taken a toll on frontline education workers as they struggle to adapt. The effects of it can be seen on the impact that it has directly on classrooms such as:
• Increasing violence in school
• Crisis in teacher retention and recruitment
• Crumbling infrastructure
• Insufficient resources
• Cuts to essential special education supports
MPP Charmaine Williams of Brampton North (Minister of Women’s Affairs) states, “I’m thrilled to share how the 2024 Budget is putting more money back into the pockets of hardworking families like yours. From covering transit costs with One Fare to fixing auto insurance and cutting gas taxes, we’re making life more affordable. Additionally, we’re empowering women with entrepreneurship and investing in crucial infrastructure like Highway 413 and expanding GO Transit. Together, we’re building a better Brampton and a better Ontario.” ETFO is disappointed by the lack of extra funding in the provincial budget. It notes, “The government knows that without adequate provincial funding there will be reduction in essential student supports and programs across the province. This knowledge makes their chronic underfunding even more egregious. Without adequate investment school boards are again being forced to do more with less.
This means cuts to valuable programs and services as boards seek to balance their budgets. In many cases, their services support our most vulnerable students, including those with special education needs, Indigenous and racialized students and English language learners.”
ETFO is concerned about what has been happening to school boards across Ontario as they struggle to deal with budgetary deficits. “Rather than advocating fiercely for the funding students deserve, as their duty entails, many school boards trustees have been forced to implement successive funding cuts by the Ford government. These cuts hurt students and educators. We call on trustees to stand up to the government and demand more for the students they serve.”
The ETFO press release concludes, “The Ford government is jeopardizing students’ futures and hindering our collective progress. We urge the province to reconsider its budgetary priorities. They must provide adequate, sustained, and equitable funding so every child and educator can thrive.”
SIMONE SMITH
simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
Alright, it was fight night again. “Time to get ready to witness some epic battles in the ring,” I thought to myself. I couldn’t wait to see what surprises tonight’s fights had in store. I arrived at Pickering Casino and Resort fashionably late (as usual) and took my seat amidst the sea of cheering spectators, eagerly awaiting the start of the next fight. As the lights dimmed and the next round of fighters made their entrance into the ring, I felt a surge of excitement. I knew that tonight, I was going to witness courage, determination, and the raw power of the human spirit on full display.
With each electrifying round that unfolded, I found myself fully immersed in the drama and intensity of the fights. Whether it was a fierce knockout, or a hard-fought victory, I savoured every moment, knowing that I was a part of something truly special.
United Boxing Promotions stands at the forefront of the electrifying boxing world here in Ontario, orchestrating matches that not only showcase the raw physicality and strategic brilliance of the sport, but also evoke profound emotional resonance. They remain committed to delivering unforgettable bouts, paired with their unparalleled expertise in promoting and managing top-tier talent. It cements their position as the pinnacle of the boxing business.
Through what seems like meticulous planning and execution, they have strategically brought together the perfect blend of: athleticism, intellect, and passion that defines boxing. Each match
curated by United Boxing Promotions is not merely a sporting event, but a captivating saga, where competitors push themselves to the limit, engaging in a battle that transcends mere physicality. At the heart of it all lies the deep emotional connection that boxing fosters. United Boxing Promotions understands and celebrates the profound impact that this sport has on both participants and spectators alike. From the exhilaration of victory to the resilience in defeat, every moment in the ring is imbued with the full spectrum of human emotion.
This was evident with the signing of Caribbean amateur champion Jerone Ennis who was set for his professional debut in the light heavyweight division, facing Argentina’s Marcelo ‘El Flaco’ Fernandez. At 175-lbs, he was gunning for a debut knockout, and got exactly that in the first round. I missed it, but I heard that it was show stopping. Jamaica represents every time!
Jerone Ennis, a native of Denham Town, Kingston, has big goals in the professional ranks, and hopes to follow in the footsteps of Jamaican stablemates Kemahl ‘The Hitman’ Russell and Ricardo ‘Big 12’ Brown.
I did arrive in time for the fight between Former Muay Thai World Champion Michael ‘The Spartan’ Fitzpatrick and fellow Jamaican veteran Gregory ‘Killa’ Miller. Disappointingly, Killa Miller was not at his best, and was sadly defeated by the Spartan Fitzpatrick. Mind you, there was a lot going on with that match. The Spartan came in overweight, which meant that Killa had to try to gain a certain amount of weight in a short amount of time, something that he documented on his social media pages. Did that affect his fight? It definitely could have.
Pickering resident Kyle ‘The Caveman’ McLaughlin makes his emotional Canadian debut, fighting in memory of his friend Kevin Beer against
all-action Hamilton veteran Dylan ‘Destruction’ Rushton. This fight nearly didn’t happen, but thankfully, in sportsman like fashion, Dylan “Destruction” Rushton stepped in and gave the crowd the fight of the night.
From the moment the gloves touched, it was clear this wouldn’t be a bout for the faint-hearted. Both fighters exploded into action, fists flying with lightning speed. Each punch was thrown with precision, seeking to find its mark and deliver a knockout blow.
The pace was relentless, a blur of movement as they weaved and dodged, bobbing and weaving like skilled dancers in the center of the ring. The audience was on the edge of their seats, caught up in the intensity of the moment.
As the rounds ticked by, the intensity only grew. Sweat poured from their brows, their chests heaving with exertion, but still they pressed on, driven by a hunger for victory that burned deep within.
In the final moments of the fight, with the outcome hanging in the balance, they unleashed a flurry of blows that left the crowd breathless. The arena erupted into chaos as the final bell rang, signaling the end of an epic battle.
In the end, there can only be one victor, but both fighters left everything they had in the ring. It was a fight that will be remembered for years to come, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the warriors who dared to step into the arena and do battle.
The next fight was not as exciting, but still a very good match. Oshawa product ‘Bad’ Thad Buntsma has earned the largest opportunity of his career, a Co-Main Event slot against former twodivision Mexican champion Luis ‘Coto’ Vidales. Thad Buntsma and Coto Vidales came out fighting, both equally skilled, but Bad Buntsma had the edge.
Finally, world-ranked Melinda ‘The Whip’ Watpool made her Main
Event debut against Brazilian Olympian and former World Title Challenger Adriana ‘Pitbull’ Araujo. I will be honest with you readers, The Whip, seemed outboxed and overshadowed by her opponent. The other boxer displayed superior technique and presence in the ring, leaving a distinct impression of dominance.
Yet, despite this, the outcome didn’t reflect the evident skill gap. While it’s accepted that victories aren’t always determined solely by performance, the desire for a rematch is palpable. A second encounter would not only settle any lingering doubts, but also provide an opportunity for both fighters to showcase their abilities on an even playing field, ensuring a fair and conclusive result.
As the final bell rang and the last fight concluded, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of fulfillment. Another unforgettable night of boxing in the books, courtesy of United Boxing Promotions. What a night! United Boxing Promotions never disappoints. Can’t wait for the next one! Thankfully, I don’t have to wait long.
On Saturday April 27th, 2024, at the Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto, rising star Sara Haghighat-Joo looks to make history, challenging Maria Bautista for the WBA LIGHT-FLYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP, and Josh “The Boss” Wagner takes on 17-1 Geronimo Vazquez for the IBF International Welterweight Title. That night will also feature:
• Kemahl “Hitman Russell
• Gisu “Terminator” Lee
• Bradley “The Truth” Wilcox
• Joshua “Hell Razor” Frazer
• Daniel Almeida vs Drake Olchowecki
In the world of boxing, where every punch thrown carries the weight of a thousand stories, United Boxing Promotions reads as a book of boxing excellence, delivering unparalleled entertainment and leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of fans.
PAUL JUNOR
paul@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
Sierra Leone born Dez Kamara presented his book talk and motivational launch at the Bathurst Cultural Centre. His book talk and motivational event “Looking Back” was meant to introduce the wider Canadian community to this phenomenal book. This groundbreaking memoir highlighted in the event was hosted by Dr. Kay Morris of the Kay Morris Foundation. She introduced the author Dez and mentioned that she first met him when she was interviewed by him on a radio show a few years ago.
In his book talk, Dez stated that he was named Desmond Samuel Kamara at birth by his parents. His father was
the headmaster of a primary school and was a leader in the local Catholic congregation, while his mother was a teacher. It was from his parents that he learned the importance of values, hard work, integrity, sacrifices, ethics, and integrity. He was the only child of five children to not have a middle name. It was largely due to the influence of Desmond Tutu who he saw in Newsweek magazine that he started writing his name as “Samuel Dee.”
Dez shared how the civil war in Sierra Leone impacted him and changed the trajectory of his life. It was due to the power of forgiveness that his life has been transformed as it is essential to happiness, joy and personal satisfaction. It is important to not carry the past into the future as: bitterness, resentment and unforgiveness as it prevents one from fulfilling one’s potential.
The book was written in one week as a stream of consciousness where he started putting ideas on paper in 2016 and it was completed in 2018 while he worked in Jamaica. Dez be -
lieves highly in the power of education. “Education is a warrior, it will take you anywhere in the world and break down barriers. It is a redemptive process. It is something that will never leave you.”
Dez had dreams of studying abroad and made a bold attempt to inquire about studying in Canada. After successfully enrolling in university in Canada, he completed a Degree in Cultural Anthropology followed by a Master of Social Work in Corporate Responsibility, then post-graduate studies at the University of Calgary in Human Rights and Genocide.
Dez shared how he believes that every one of us has a purpose in life, which is related to our vocation. This purpose transcends the job, or work that an individual does and has the capacity to influence lives, change destinies and impact generations. “Vocation is a sacred calling that is God-inspired. It is important that one believes in the power of their dreams. Dreams do come true! Any dream can become a reality. Hug your dreams. Embrace your dreams, and
you will enjoy them again and again.”
One of the supporters of the book wrote, “A book that is more than just the courage, determination, values, faith, power of connections, and one man’s hope against the world. Immerse yourself in the journey of Desmond Samuel Kamara to get inspired and find a glimmer of hope in this dark world.”
Dr. Janice Newberry (Chair of the Anthropology Department, University of Lethbridge) writes, “As a young man, he first experienced the violence of war before working to help even younger people affected by it. His work with child soldiers leads not only to a meeting with Romeo Dallaire, but their experiences. It is his curiosity about the world and his resilience that carry him through. With the thread of education weaving through this heartfelt memoir, generosity and courage are its biggest gifts. While Dez benefits from the curiosity of others throughout his experiences, he returns that generosity in full measure in this book.”
Within every soul, there resides a celestial spark, an iridescent light that transcends the confines of circumstance and origin. Regardless of the soil in which one is planted, or the skies under which they unfold, the brilliance of their potential knows no bounds. Like a steadfast star in the vast expanse of the cosmos, their luminosity pierces through adversity, illuminating pathways to greatness that defy the limitations of their surroundings. It’s not where we begin our journey, but the radiance we emit along the way that truly defines our legacy.
Even at the age of 16, our Classic Young Man bet on himself. Though he went into the pandemic a quiet and dedicated high schooler, he emerged from it as Pablo YG – a rapidly rising Dancehall star who has earned the respect of some of his greatest contemporaries. Though some of this young Jamaican Reggae artist’s music may provoke, and raise some eyebrows, what resonates profoundly is the raw honesty within his compositions. As I learned more about our Classic Young Man and his music, I discovered a genre of Dancehall Reggae that has been blown up in popularity, Trap Dancehall. Trap Dancehall can be best described as a fusion of Hip-Hop and Dancehall music. Most of the younger upcoming dancehall artists (from 2016/2017) are curating this genre of Dancehall and just like Reggae has subgenre like: Roots Rock, Lovers Rock and Dub, Dancehall Music now has its subgenre “Trap Dancehall.” With the growth in popularity, many big-name artists are jumping on the trend as the style of music takes off on the global stage. Interestingly enough, our Classic Young Man didn’t have to jump on a trend; he was born into it.
If you are a true Dancehall fan, you know that Pablo YG (Romeo Hines) has been touring Canada and has soldout his Rich and Richer tour. Performing at stops in: Winnipeg, Toronto and Brantford, as well as shows in Montreal, Edmonton and Halifax, one thing can be said about Pablo YG; he is becoming a sought out, international superstar.
Songs “Rich and Richer,” “Radar,” “Bad Slave,” and “Louis V” had crowds singing with the artist word for
Forever staying true to himself
word leaving no doubt that Canada enjoys the music the young artist is releasing. Also impressive is the diversity of the artist’s fanbase; he is one of the few artists to have fans from the: Caribbean, South Asia, Persia and Europe attend a show – his music is reaching the people.
In addition to performances, Pablo YG appeared on the Entertainment Report Podcast with host Muscle, was involved in music videos shoots, and thanks to VP Records Natasha VonCastle, is being featured here in Toronto Caribbean Newspaper. I observe that Pablo is settling into the spotlight with a newfound ease. His youthful spirit infuses each conversation, allowing him to candidly explore topics surrounding his rise to fame and adept navigation of its complexities. There’s a sense of confidence and authenticity in his demeanor, reflecting a growing comfort with his public persona and the journey that brought him to this point.
When he gets back to his base, it is a sure thing that he will be embraced with love. Based in Kingston, Jamaica, Pablo YG is having an effect on Dancehall. Pablo YG’s - Rich N Richer | From The Block Performance LIVE (Jamaica) is now sitting at 1.1 million views, and it was only posted five months ago. His fellow Jamaican, Former Middleweight Boxing Champion Kemahl Russell (currently training for his upcoming fight on April 27th, 2024), was disappointed that he did not have a chance to attend a Pablo YG concert while he was here. We chatted briefly, and he spoke with pride about the young man, “Yeah! Mi rate di yout. Him and mi, we come from di same kinda place.” Pablo YG now counts online personality and influencer Kai Cenat among his fans after the superstar praised his song during a livestream.
Never failing to amaze, I learned that he was voted Best Promising Entertainer at the IRAWMA Awards, and he impressed Supreme Clothing and Clarks Shoes, enough so that they made him a model for their joint venture campaign. This time around, Supreme has linked up with Clarks for a brand-new range of Wallabees. These custom versions are ready for the spring season, arriving in four colorways made exclusively for Su-
preme.
With all this going on, he has released his first EP entitled “Rich and Richer,” which features New York-based Dancehall artist Kranium and rising star Valiant. The release is joined by a music video for the track, “Bad Slave,” directed by DaMANIAC VISUALZ.
Across seven tracks, the 20-year-old artist refined his melodic, gritty approach to modern dancehall — a signature sound that gave way to his hit song “Rich N Richer” last year. Led by the singles: “Rich N Richer,” “Radar,” and “States,” the new project includes four new tracks. Young Generation Family (YGF), Popinz Records, 23 Recordz, and more, contributed production. What separates Pablo YG from most of his contemporaries is the way that he thinks. The small wins, he reasons, counts, and he always makes time to recognize them. That’s why he feels such elation for his Bad Juvi mixtape, which he describes as the most important project of his career so far. That’s why he holds such passion for the Bad Juvi mixtape. It’s meant to be a behind-thescenes look at his thoughts. It’s meant, he says, to give his supporters a body of work that they can cling to, and one they can be proud of.
I had the opportunity to tap into that mind space during our interview last week, and I appreciated everything that I learned about this young man.
“I was born in St. Ann, Jamaica (Ocho Rios), you know a normal ghetto yout. Where I am from, there are negatives and positives. People lived good. You still have to keep your eyes open, and you have to know the street code. Life was nice, same way; we didn’t really worry about anything. I can’t say it was the worst experience; I had fun.”
What some don’t know is that Pablo ‘s father (R.I.P.) was a reputable musician who went by the name Mr. Groove, and was known for songs like “Jah Love,” and “High Grade.” Mr. Groove’s undeniable affinity for music served as a firm foundation for his son, and the seeds of that were ultimately nurtured by Pablo YG’s brother, as well as a few friends, who would show up to their unofficial vibe sessions/backyard con-
certs. That support remained intact even after the budding musician took his skills to his community’s annual talent show.
“I had the talent, and I wanted to use that talent and enjoy it. I was always a young man who clashed. One day I was with my brother and my friend, and they said, ‘You should do music.’ I didn’t know if I could do songs back-to-back, but I did it. They played a YouTube song, and I flowed on it. I ended up going to YGF Records, and we were holding a vibe, and this gave way to my debut single, “Ready!”
Since then, Pablo YG has been on an unprecedented climb up the ranks of the new school Dancehall artists. He has even worked with one of the talents he looks up to – Dancehall powerhouse Skillibeng. Performing at Sting, working with Skillibeng and racking up a couple million views on YouTube – came relatively quickly. “I wasn’t too nervous; I was excited, because I found out that I could do it for real. I have goals, and I have not reached where I want to go. I know that within myself. I don’t let what has happened get to my head.”
“How has music changed your life,” I inquired? I had read in one of his recent interviews that his personal mission is to live honestly and stay true to himself. “I am not living for myself; I have people who are close to me who I take care of. My life may be nice, but everyone has to eat. Stay consistent! Stay vigilant! Don’t let nothing get to your head. Keep working. Live music!”
“In my mind, the work is just starting. The goal is always to stay true to my fans as I take the thing to an international level. I have to elevate. Every body of work has to be better than the last. We nah stop improve.”
Written by Simone J. Smith Toronto Caribbean News
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In the heart of downtown is the historical charm known as the Distillery District. Nestled within this urban tapestry were the most beautiful black women and men, dressed in purple and blue glam, coming to celebrate yet another SheaMoisture collection in the sheik Archeo event space.
The atmosphere was giving luxe with a welcoming and social vibe. As soon as I got in I was given a cute flower crown that brought yet another layer of cohesiveness in everyone’s matching attire.
The place was buzzing with Toronto influencers: women in business, creatives and journalists like myself, eager to connect, while enjoying a tasteful selection of finger food and signature cocktails. DJ Martina was spinning the latest Afrobeats and RnB, keeping the en-
ergy high. There was a visual artist vendor customizing complimentary plants, and hairstyling stations, where women were upping their hair game with SheaMoisture’s new product collection.
Speaking of new collections, SheaMoisture is launching a whopping eight new products this summer! The Scalp Moisture collection consists of 4 new products: shampoo, conditioner, pre-wash masque and scalp cream. The original Coconut & Hibiscus Frizz Free Curl Mousse has two new sisters: a multistyling mousse from the Manuka Honey & Yogurt line, and the Wrap and Set Mousse, from the Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil line. This one is for roller sets and twist outs while the multi-styling mousse was formulated for the ladies with braids, locs and up-do’s. There was also a new whipped curl cream, and last, but certainly not least, a Coconut and Hibiscus +Flaxseed edge gel. We all know a black girl’s edge is the icing on any hairstyle and this edge gel offers a semi-firm hold without the flaking and unnatural stiffness.
I’ve had the opportunity to smell and try them all and as always, the scents never decline and the consistency is on point. One thing I personally love about
this brand is their dedication in providing black women clean organic ingredients, free of parabens, petroleum and mineral oil which is a big plus in my book as a registered nutritionist. It’s important to note that whatever we put in our scalp and on our bodies, goes directly into our bloodstream. Harmful ingredients can cause toxic build-up and hormone disruption while SheaMoisture’s organic ingredient profile does what it’s supposed to do, minus the hidden harm.
My personal favourite from the line is the scalp cream. It’s used just like hair oil but what I love about it is the cream application. I don’t have to worry about an overly shiny scalp with oil dripping down my forehead on a hot summer day. I also don’t have to be weary of the oil messing up my clothes during application (which happens every so often). The application tip t is perfect, the cream goes directly in my scalp and it disappears as soon as you massage it in. No white film, or build up and I’ve been using it every day! It’s obvious that our hair concerns are always at the forefront and SheaMoisture always has its way of delivering exactly what we need.
Their dedication to fair trade and ethical sourcing has brought forth fair wages and a better quality of life for families in Ghana and Burkina Faso. SheaMoisture has not only made their mark globally with remarkable products, but they have changed the lives of thousands through partnerships and most
importantly, giving back.
SheaMoisture was also proud to announce their second year of the Dream Fund! This fund is a continuation of the grant program to offer financial support to the community. The Dream Fund grant program offers $10,000 each to five black owned businesses in the beauty and wellness space. If you are a Black business with a product, or service that serves the community, you are encouraged to apply for your chance to win! Applications open April 15th, 2024 and close May 31st, 2024. Winners will be announced July 15th, 2024! Keep in mind, you do not need to be a hairstylist, or specifically in the beauty industry to apply.
Last year, a book publishing company, a fitness organization, a chef and a hair accessory company took home the gold. No matter how big, or small your company is, think about the greater impact you can make with an extra $10,000! The Dream Fund serves all black businesses across Canada and is just one of the many grants, scholarships and funding accessible to the black community on a global scale.
SheaMoisture is out here making big moves and standing with the underdogs so we can all rise in power and service to our community, and for that I will always support this product line and their initiatives
W. GIFFORDJONES MD
DIANA
GIFFORD-JONES
COMMON SENSE HEALTH
Reading a recent tribute to the life of Paul Alexander brought back horrible memories for me. Paul Alexander was only six years of age when he developed polio. The result? He spent the rest of his life enclosed in an iron lung. I too had polio in my final year at the Harvard Medical School. If my fate had been life in an iron lung, I would have begged someone to kill me.
It’s not just memories of polio that trouble me. It’s also some people’s longfestering misinterpretation of my stand on vaccines, including some editors who got
my message totally wrong.
The polio vaccine hadn’t been invented when Alexander and I contracted the disease in the 1940s. Given the consequences for Alexander, he could have given in to depression. Rather, what he accomplished by sheer will power is astounding. He studied economics at the University of Texas and then took a law degree from the same university, all while enclosed in an iron lung.
A lifelong friend, Daniel Spinks, attributed Alexander’s successes to his positive attitude about: life, sense of humour, and strong feeling about God. Spinks proved his dedication by driving Alexander to court appearances, which must have required bravery too, on both their parts.
Alexander was able to escape from his iron lung for up to six hours at a time by gulping air. But according to Spinks, as he got older, even short escapes were too difficult. Even so, Alexander lived his life telling people they could do great things.
In 1949, during my last year in
training at Harvard, I awakened one morning with a devastating headache. Later that day I was admitted to hospital and a spinal test diagnosed polio. The following morning, I could not move my legs and paralysis of my abdominal muscles meant I could not sit up. I well remember distinguished professors telling me there was no way to stop the paralysis. I believed my plans to be a surgeon was finished.
I got lucky. After several weeks of therapy, I regained the use of my muscles. And I did become a surgeon. It was a close call. Then vaccines in the early1950’s became available to prevent polio.
I started reading about vaccines as a teenager and how Pasteur and other researchers had developed vaccines to prevent a number of diseases. To be clear, I have never, never been against vaccines, but I have warned readers that on rare occasions vaccines cause complications. Governments have paid compensation to some patients. Even aspirin can trigger problems, not to mention the dangerous side effects
of many prescription drugs, but my column was discontinued in a few newspapers as some people screamed lies about my position on vaccines.
Readers will recall the group of protestors who brought chaos to Ottawa for several weeks. I wonder how protestors would have reacted if a polio epidemic had been raging in Ottawa. What if they had witnessed people being paralyzed by this terrible disease? Would they have condemned these people to living the rest of their lives in an iron lung? Would they acknowledge that the polio vaccine is the reason why such scenarios are unheard of today?
Vaccines have saved countless lives. They have brought harm to some as well. There is no perfection with vaccines, or many other aspects of medicine. People need to inform themselves and make personal decisions. Everyone should respect the choices people make. Reader responses would be highly welcomed.
You deserve the best life; you just have to remove the clutter that’s in the way first
TRISHA SMITH
trishas@carib101.com
SAKRED SYNERGI
It can be hard to let go. Whether it be a past lover that still pulls on your heart strings, or a dress that you can no longer fit in, but refuse to give up. We are beings of comfort and familiarity. While some of us welcome change and new beginnings, others dread the thought of stepping outside a normal day’s routine. It takes up too much mental energy to make new decisions in a new space. We have more control over our lives when the element of predictability is present, and it brings a sense of belonging when we have tied ourselves to specific social/ religious groups or communities.
Routine is structure and structure bring clarity. Knowing your next move and understanding your world, creates a sense of clarity, which then brings a sense of security, or comfort. Unfortunately, this false sense of comfort
and security can lead to our demise. It will have us staying in miserable relationships, hoarding clothes we don’t wear, keeping things we don’t use, and hanging on to friends and family that mistreat us. We’ll opt out of changing anything about ourselves so as to not disrupt the natural order we have created in our lives and keep the people around from asking questions.
In all this routine and security, are we really happy though? Have you ever taken the time to analyze your life? Sit and think of all the people and lovers you have given access to in your life; are they serving, or supporting you in a way that favours your progression? How about all the things in your home? Do you use it, or wear it all? Are you still holding a grudge against that particular person who troubled your spirit over a decade ago? Are you still living in a house that harbors traumatic memories and pain? Are you holding on to old beliefs, family traditions and values that do not align with who are or aspire to be? Are you still sleeping with a person you have already broken up with?
Why do we do this to ourselves? Why do we taunt our minds and validate people and things that we know to our
Chiropractic is a profession that focuses on treating neuromusculoskeletal system (NMS) disorders, particularly those related to the spine. It’s based on the idea that maintaining the balance of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems is crucial for overall health.
The critical role of the chiropractor Chiropractors play a crucial role in helping people restore and maintain their health. They do this by assessing a person’s posture, joint mobility and nervous system to identify potential dysfunctions. Chiropractic adjustments aim to restore normal spinal alignment. This helps relieve pressure on the nerves so the body can function optimally.
Who can benefit
Chiropractic treatment can benefit peo -
ple of all ages and with different conditions. From active adults and young children to pregnant women and seniors, chiropractors provide personalized care for each person’s situation.
A proactive approach
Chiropractors take a holistic approach to healthcare, recognizing that the body’s structure, nervous system and overall health are interconnected. Rather than simply treating symptoms, chiropractors seek to address the root cause, promoting long-term well-being.
Don’t hesitate to contact a chiropractor in your area — it could change your life! For more information, visit the Canadian Chiropractic Association website at chiropractic.ca.
Massage therapy is a rapidly growing therapeutic discipline focused on improving a person’s overall well-being and relaxation. It has become very popular in Canada and provides not only physical but also mental benefits. It can also help reduce pain and ease anxiety.
More than just deep relaxation!
Massage therapy is suitable for people of all ages. It offers several benefits beyond deep relaxation. For example, massage therapy can help relieve tension, reduce stress and improve blood circulation. Massage therapists customize
their treatment plan to meet the needs of each client.
Massage therapists use a variety of techniques to help relieve back pain, alleviate tension caused by daily stress and aid muscle recovery after strenuous physical activity. Some professionals specialize in specific treatment areas like energy or pre-natal massage.
Professional massage therapists are qualified to provide safe and effective massages to help you relax and sleep better. Don’t hesitate to contact a massage therapist and schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one.
core, are not in alignment with who we are? Why are we scared to take a path less traveled when we know it is the desire of our soul?
Our ego will do anything in its power to protect us from anyone and anything that disrupts this false sense of security and comfort, even if it’s to our own demise. One job of the ego is to keep us alive, and because it has no control in unfamiliar territory, it keeps us complacent and in familiar places to avoid any unforeseen harm, stepping outside the box may cause. The irony is that the ego is unaware of the potential demise that is taking place within the box.
We must let go. After we have taken inventory of our lives, we must release the pain that people have caused us through shadow work. We must walk away from toxic relationships, make as many trips needed to the donation bin, have a yard sale, put the home up for sale, choose to incorporate a different flair to your family tradition, or release it altogether.
Whatever you do will feel scary, but that uncertainty and fear is an indicator you are heading in the right direction. You will feel a weird void until you fill it with self-love, boundaries, and the things your soul truly desires.
To free yourself energetically from someone, performing a cord cutting is a safe and effective way to release
yourself from the emotional ties that keep us going back. It has its origins in various cultures and spiritual practices around the world. Cord cutting involves symbolic, or ritualistic actions that release us from: attachments, negative energy and unhealthy connections to people. A contrast to cord cutting would be the pastor laying hands on you at the altar and rebuking all negativity in the name of Jesus. The difference is that you are using your own will power, which makes it more effective and real.
Cord cutting is an effective addition to just making up your mind to let go. You can do this through meditation while visualizing people, places and things dissolving into the light. You can go out in nature, write down all that you are ready to release and let it go into a flowing river away from you. You can also take that same paper and burn it, releasing the ashes out in nature to walk away and not look back.
The most important thing is to be sincere in your actions and recognize and honour the changes you want to make in your life. Once your mind is made up, the universe will conspire to help you.
Never forget that you deserve to be happy, you deserve the best life, and it is out there waiting for you, you just have to remove the clutter that’s in the way first.
Home is where tenants feel safe and secure.
New rules aim to make multi-tenant homes safer across Toronto.
megan@carib101.com
Keith Lee, the ever-charismatic food critic with a massive social media following, recently chose Toronto for his first foodie adventure outside the U.S. His “FamiLee Food Tour” in the city didn’t just stir up excitement among local food lovers; it left a real impact on the places he visited. Over a week, Keith dived into Toronto’s diverse culinary scene, sparking the “Keith Lee Effect”—a burst of customer visits and widespread buzz for the restaurants he highlighted.
Picking Toronto as his first international stop speaks volumes about the city’s vibrant food culture. With over 16 million TikTok followers hanging on his every word, Keith’s ability to turn local hotspots into viral sensations was clearly seen. His tour began in Scarborough with a shawarma spot where he tried both chicken and veal shawarma. He especially loved the veal shawarma, rating it a strong 8.4 out of 10. The next day, the restaurant was buzzing, with lines of eager customers wrapping around the block.
Keith’s food tour was all about showcasing the variety in Toronto’s food scene. He visited a tiny bakery in Ajax, hidden in a backyard shed, where he sampled several sweet treats like: a Korean sponge toffee latte and a cream cheese iced carrot cake. His visit turned this quiet bakery into a weekend hotspot, drawing crowds keen to try the desserts Keith had recommended.
One of the standout moments of the tour was at Afro’s Pizza, a small downtown pizzeria. Keith tried their mac and cheese pizza and was impressed enough to give it an 8.5 out of 10. Keith’s praise went beyond just words; he left a generous tip and paid for hundreds of pizzas
to be handed out for free, showing his support for the local community and the small business.
Keith didn’t just stick to the usual flavors; he explored Caribbean and African culinary traditions too. At Old Nassau, a Bahamian restaurant, he was blown away by a pancake topped with guava butter and fried snapper, giving it a stellar 9.6 out of 10. This glowing review led to long lines at the restaurant, with people eager to taste what Keith had declared the best food he’d had in Toronto.
He also tried Somali food at Sahan Restaurant, enjoying a traditional goat and rice dish, which he scored 8.2 out of 10. His visit put a spotlight on Toronto’s Somali food scene, adding yet another cultural layer to his culinary journey.
However, not every experience was perfect. At No 1. Jerk, a Jamaican spot, things didn’t go as smoothly. Service mishaps and underwhelming food led to lower scores. But even here, the Keith Lee Effect was in action, as the restaurant promised improvements and invited him back for a better experience.
Keith’s influence was undeniable throughout his tour. Each restaurant he visited experienced a surge in customers, and his positive reviews meant a significant boost in their visibility and sales. His honest reviews and genuine enthusiasm didn’t just entertain his huge online audience; they also gave a real boost to local businesses.
Wrapping up his tour, Keith shared his thoughts on Toronto’s food scene, praising its diversity and vibrancy. His visit not only highlighted the quality and variety on offer, but also showcased the power of social media to shape the fortunes of local eateries.
All in all, Keith Lee’s trip to Toronto was more than just a series of meals; it was a celebration of the city’s rich culinary landscape and a demonstration of how much impact one influential food critic can have on local restaurants. As Toronto continues to cherish and promote its multicultural food heritage, the impact of the “Keith Lee Effect” will likely be felt for quite some time.
intend to purchase before placing it back in the freezer. Tampering with a consumer product is not the only sickening thing about this trend. People will film a video of what they’ve done before posting it on social media for all to see. While not everyone who partook in the challenge faced any consequences, a few people had to serve some time in prison for what they did.
ers, chasing after people with fake weapons, or just simply harassing people, it seems like these pranksters have done it all. While some are fortunate enough to get away unscathed, others learned a tenacious lesson. There are cases where people sustained bruises, needed medical attention, got arrested or lost their lives because they allowed their thirst for attention to overpower them.
The more clicks and views one receives, the more popularity and money is earned. However, some tend to forget that gaining more popularity and money at the expense of others comes at a price, and that price is not worth it.
Throughout the years, we’ve seen content of people doing rather inappropriate things for clout. There are a few challenges that come to mind for me.
The first is the ice-cream-licking challenge that ran rampant during the summer of 2019. Do you remember this tasteless challenge? If not, I’ll give you a refresher. The challenge consists of people licking a tub of ice cream they do not
Months later, people were doing questionable things for clout once again. When the pandemic started, many opted to take extra safety and sanitary measures. However, the pandemic did not keep people from their thirst for clout. During the early stages of the pandemic, people posted videos of themselves licking public toilets. While most were fortunate enough not to test positive for COVID-19, others did not have that same fortune.
Pulling pranks on strangers is another type of questionable content some will partake in and has also been an issue for quite a while. From throwing objects at people, pretending to steal from oth-
A viral video I recently came across on X, formerly known as Twitter, would fall under the prank category.
Kizzy the Kid, a Kick streamer, streamed himself walking a strip with his friends and saw no harm in helping himself to other people’s meals while they were out on the patio. While taking some nachos two women ordered for themselves, Kizzy showed zero remorse for what he did as he continued walking. The two ladies did not take too kindly to what he did, as one of them decided to confront him.
During the confrontation, Kizzy’s friends had their phones, and the lady attempted to confiscate the phone of one
of his friends when she let Kizzy know that it’s not OK to take other people’s food. Kizzy continued to show a lack of empathy and even referred to the lady as “A nobody.”
On the other hand, Kick proved to be empathetic as they banned Kizzy from their platform. Many people across different platforms also shared how Kizzy’s actions left a bad taste in their mouths and talked about what they would’ve done if they were in those ladies’ shoes.
We’ve heard about one too many cases where someone has had to learn the hard way that creating content at someone else’s expense has consequences. Nowadays, not everyone is willing to talk it out. Quite a few people are ready to fight or even pick up a weapon.
If creating content is something you are passionate about, that’s great. Continue to do great things and see where it can take you. However, don’t forget that being thirsty for clout can lead to consequences that, at times, can be costly.
Toronto has a lot of talent, and it is yearning to be heard and seenBY ADRIAN REECE
Spring is here, and warmer weather opens Toronto up to more art and more safe spaces to express yourself. 2023 introduced the city to a wide range of new venues and events while reintroducing us to familiarity in the form of the legacy awards, Caribbean Film Festival, and Black art events all around the city. 2024 is going to be a year where art continues to evolve. If you’ve been paying attention, then you know how deep the rabbit hole goes. Toronto is a hub of talent. This year there is no excuse to miss all that the GTA has to offer.
Keith Lee frequented the city
has to offer. The fame of this city rivals: New York, Paris, Rome and other prominent places around the world. Of course, we always bring things back to the talent that lives here. If celebrities can target our city, then it is an indication that there is a reason to come here, so there is even greater reason for us as citizens to really get to know Toronto for what it truly is. Beyond the: high prices, low wages and insurmountable mortgage prices, Toronto is a focal point of the highest class of everything that any other city is famous for.
As a result of the quality of Toronto, we should all be prepared for the events that are coming this year. If you missed any previously then feel free to experience them this year and with more excitement than ever before. Whenever
winter ends the new season brings with it hope. This feeling extends to everything that happens over the next few months and the aspirations are endless. With it comes the fruition of plans and the audacity to wish for just a bit more. The warm weather has produced just that again in the air of the city. Events are being planned and dates are being set for some of the most exciting expressions of creativity that a person can imagine. All of this comes together because of desire; the desire to produce the best version of yourself and present it in all its vulnerability to a world that needs whatever it is you created just to be a little more beautiful.
So, when speaking of Toronto we have: film festivals, and all night art exhibits that line the streets of the city.
There are a series of open mic events inside speakeasies that just whisper to anyone passing by to come in and see the performers gathered there for the night. There are paint and sips, cake and sips, and all types of sips. Jazz bars and comedy shows that keep the mind and the heart alive with a smile on your face that won’t leave as long as you are within earshot of the sounds coming from these places. This is the theme of Toronto, and it has been mentioned before numerous times, but the seriousness of this city cannot be overlooked. Keith Lee was able to visit just to indulge in the food. It’s about time we make celebrities and others visit simply to see what kind of talent exists here, because we have plenty of it, and it is yearning to be heard and seen.
It is time for the Canadian government to explain why hundreds of Native youths disappeared
happened, for there are many suggested reasons why this could happen, those in charge of these residential schools should be held responsible for the damage done to the families and victims.
The United Church, Anglican and Catholic Churches along with many other organizations were both directly and indirectly involved in these happenings. To those who pushed the cart down the hill, so too should these people be held: morally, ethically, legally and financially responsible for the damage the cart will create once it enters the village. So, too: city elders, bankers, church ministers, individual parish/dioceses, the Indian/ Aboriginal/First Nations ministries and government decision makers should be held responsible, if not for the actual happenings, then for the coverup and misinformation through the generations trying to explain why hundreds of Native
youths disappeared.
Well in Winnipeg, churches are taking action against historic settler-colonial mindsets, establishing reparations accounts collected from members of the churches, most notably the Winnipeg based Home Street Mennonite Church. These churches established these accounts and the process to collect funds directed towards various charities and programs like the Clan Mothers Healing Centre. The churches will have no say on how these funds will be spent by the Aboriginal/First Nations organizations. Just such a program has been instituted within the Anglican Church, with independent Anglican Churches doing what they can to institute further reconciliation with their neighbors.
What about the Catholic Church of Canada? Like any large institution with amassed wealth and property, the or-
ganization seems to be moving slowly, carefully and strategically. The church has holdings in Canada worth 7.8 billion dollars and yet the promised 30 million dollars has not been collected as of yet. Promises are made, but most of our Aboriginal friends still remain ready to ask, “Where is the money?” Intentions are respected yet patience can be a virtue with a time limit.
Those who carried out the residential fiasco must stand up and be counted, investigated, and judged. Billions of dollars flow to the Aboriginal community annually, while the justification and justice demanded for said historic actions must be legislated and enforced. Perhaps it is time the federal government placed income taxes upon our great religious organization, a way to raise needed funds for our Aboriginal and First Nations peoples.
This week I want to start off by saying congratulations to everyone who has been following this series, and who has taken some time to look inwards. When things are not going well, it is difficult to see anything that is happening outside of your problems. What some brave readers have been doing for the last few months is looking inwards, examining their personal lives to find the answers to their experiences.
We are almost done with our series on transgenerational (intergenerational) trauma, and with two topics to go, I would love to hear some feedback from the community on what impacted them, or if anything was triggered while they were reading. Our last two topics are:
Implicit memory and sensitization
Traumatic experiences become part of an individual's implicit memory, influencing emotional responses and reactions.
Cultural and environmental factors
Cultural and environmental influences play a role in how trauma is processed and transmitted.
This week, we are tackling implicit memory and sensitization. Trauma is a journey that etches its mark not only on the surface of our consciousness, but also delves deep into the fabric of our being, weaving itself into the very threads of our implicit memory.
When we endure trauma, whether it's a single event, or prolonged exposure to stress, our minds undergo a profound transformation, one that we are unconscious of. The memories of these experiences are not simply stored away in a neat, chronological order (which would be convenient). Instead, they seep into the subconscious, becoming woven into the intricate tapestry of our implicit memory. I am going to explain this a little more.
Our brains have evolved to encode and process information in multiple ways. Explicit memory, which deals with conscious recall, is just one aspect. Implicit memory, on the other hand, operates beneath the surface, shaping our emotional responses and behaviors without our conscious awareness.
During a traumatic experience (slavery, assault, sexual assault, abuse), the brain's stress response is triggered, flooding the system with neurochemicals that heighten arousal and focus. This intense state of alertness engrains the details of the event into our neural circuitry, creating a lasting imprint. Again, this is happening without us being conscious of it.
The only time you would see how
It’s not always easy to find the time and motivation to keep fit between work, homework, shopping, meals and housework. The solution? Make exercise a health priority for the whole family.
What’s important is to stay active. Get all the members of your family moving by choosing activities that are simple and easy to integrate into the daily routine. Start slowly; a short family walk after supper is a great way to form new habits. Break the monotony by changing your route on a regular basis. Finish your outing with a few fun challenges, such as walking backwards or hopping.
Everyone is sure to enjoy an improvised dance session in the living room. Swaying and jumping to your children’s fa-
vourite music is the kind of cardiovascular exercise that burns calories. Get yourself an exercise ball or some elastic exercise bands; they’re inexpensive and can be used even when watching TV. Every week, ask family members to organize a session of their favourite physical activity. There’s just one rule: everyone has to participate. You can go cycling, do yoga, go swimming, play beach volleyball, take a walk in the woods or jump rope — anything is possible.
Set yourself realistic family goals. An hour of exercise a day may be too demanding, while 20 or 30 minutes could be enough to stimulate enthusiasm. You don’t want to discourage the troops. After all, family exercise is healthy, but it has to be fun as well.
these implicit memories manifest is in therapy. You may struggle with unexplained anxiety, overwhelming emotions, or seemingly irrational reactions to everyday triggers. These responses are not random; they're echoes of past trauma reverberating through your subconscious mind.
As survivors, we may find ourselves haunted by fragments of the past, caught in a perpetual loop of reliving moments we would rather forget. These memories lurk in the shadows, waiting to be triggered by sights, sounds, or sensations
that echo the original trauma.
Through connection and community, we can begin to unravel the tangled web of trauma. By bearing witness to each other's stories, we validate the pain and reclaim our agency in rewriting the narrative of our lives.
Though the journey through trauma may be fraught with challenges, it's also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. As we navigate the labyrinth of our implicit memory, we discover that healing is not about erasing the past but integrating it into the tapestry of who we are.
Your love life is important, even when you’re a parent
Do you feel that your only role in life is to be a parent? What about all those romantic moments you used to enjoy together before you started a family? Do you feel guilty when you make time for your relationship? Experts say it’s important to remember that nurturing your relationship with one another is crucial, especially when you’re parents.
When a baby is born it’s normal to devote all your energy to this new member of the family. Between nursing, diapers, parenting joys and worries, time flies by so fast that you end up without any time for yourself. Parents bond deeply with their children and this relationship takes up more and more room in their lives. Mom is tired, Dad feels neglected and the marriage takes a beating. This is when you have to take immediate action. Of course you are parents, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect your love life. Nurturing your rela-
tionship must remain on your list of priorities.
How can you take better care of your relationship? Take advantage of every opportunity to be alone together. Is the baby sleeping? Turn off the TV and have a romantic tête-à-tête. Don’t talk about the kids; they’ll be fine! Cozy up with each other, whisper sweet nothings and don’t look at the pile of dirty dishes in the sink. A long kiss, a hug and a bath together don’t cost anything, and often that’s all it takes to prevent coolness and indifference from creeping into your relationship.
When possible, ask someone to come and look after the kids so you can treat yourselves to an evening at the movies, go for a walk or go out for a cup of coffee together. Get out, break the routine and have fun. If you feel guilty, remember this: taking care of your marriage is part of your responsibilities as a parent.
SEAN
SEURATTAN
sean@carib101.com
THE
can create cannabis unity through a new holiday that at least attempts to befit the love we ask share for it.
For most, the meaning behind 420
is unknown. Which in itself is not a deal breaker, as most people have no idea about the true origins of any holiday. It has just drifted away into urban legend for pop culture without much validation. The long existing taboo of cannabis kept the masses from wanting to explore further. In fact the clandestine nature of 420 was meant to keep the general public from knowing what was even being celebrated. Some may enjoy the exclusivity of a hidden holiday, but it is counter intuitive when working towards eliminating stigma and stereotypes surrounding canna-
The time for that is over.
Of the many anecdotal stories about the origin of 420, the most certifiable is also the most meaningless. Dating back to the early 1970’s in San Rafael, California a group of students would get together after school to secretly smoke weed. The designated time to meet was 4:20 pm, because their chosen spot on campus would become secluded then. After several rendezvous, the group began to reference cannabis as 420 to further obscure it from being an openly known subject. That’s it. The reason for the entire celebration is based on an almost random selec-
tion of time. It easily could have been: 4:19, 5:15 or 6:30 with no meaningful difference.
With some dumb luck, blind trust, a further lack of imagination and a healthy dose of marketing exploitations, this stoner holiday has been perpetuated. Allegedly, one of the members from that group of students would go on to become a roadie for the band, The Grateful Dead. The band was infamously known for being huge proponents for cannabis consumption amongst other substances as well. They began to also use the 420 moniker for cannabis, helping to spread its usage. However it wouldn’t be until decades later in 1990 that 420 would make the leap from local myth to urban legend.
A group of Grateful Dead fans known, as “Dead Heads” would create a musical tribute event that also asked attendees to “Smoke 420 on April 20th, at 4:20pm. After creating flyers to advertise their event, one of these flyers would end up on the desk of a reporter for the influential cannabis magazine, High Times. Seeing the opportunity to appeal to their audience by tapping into the subculture, the magazine reprinted the flyer into its pages with a surprisingly good reception. With that, this rediculous festivity was cemented into cannabis culture as an unoffi-
cial yet widely accepted and celebrated holiday.
Decades later we can see how ttime can make something trivial into something beyond reproach. It has been so long that no one questions the connection between cannabis and 420, simply seeing them as synonyms like Santa Claus and Christmas. Just like that holiday, we are now seeing the commercialization of 420. Rather than focusing on the true meaning of cannabis to people, every producer and retailer swarms around this marketing low hanging fruit like fruit flies.
The Heightened Chef has begun to buck against the false 420 idolatry and created their own cannabis holiday almost five years ago based on: meaning, love and community: Cannabis Friends Giving. Set on the last Saturday of October, it is meant to celebrate the end of harvest season and connections with others that the cannabis bounty brings. While every person can choose his, or her own way to celebrate cannabis everyday, any day, it is important to not follow sheepishly, but to lead proudly and bravely in your celebration!
If you want to learn more about a home, here are some things you should definitely ask about during a virtual tour of the property.
Can street noise and other sounds be heard from inside the home? What about when you’re sitting out
side? If any of the floors are carpeted, ask whether they creak, as this can indicate structural issues with the subflooring.
Request that curtains and blinds be opened in every room. If there’s something unsightly nearby or a neighbouring house is too close, you’ll want to know about it.
Wear and tear
It may not be easy to tell over video if surfaces are damaged, so ask whether countertops, cabinets and floors look worn or scratched.
Ask your realtor if they notice any unusual or unpleasant odours inside and outside the home. Industrial smells from a nearby plant can affect your enjoyment of a property, and a whiff of mould or sewage can indicate a bigger issue.
If you want to buy a condominium, you may not know where to start. Here are several things to consider if you intend to purchase this type of property.
The unit
Find out what’s included with your unit. Does it come with appliances, a parking space or a storage locker? If you buy a brand new unit, you’ll likely be able to choose some of the materials and features such as the countertops, flooring and electrical components.
You should also ask whether there are regulations regarding how the unit can be decorated, renovated or used.
The building
In addition to finding out what type of security features and amenities are included (gym, entertainment room, etc.), you should inquire about the building’s overall condition. If it’s an older property, make sure there aren’t any leaks.
Also, consider the demographic of the other residents. You’ll most likely want to live among people whose lifestyle is simi
lar to your own.
The area
For many people, the best part about living in a condo is having access to an urban community with a variety of conveniences and sources of entertainment. Make sure everything you’re looking for is available nearby.
The board
Familiarize yourself with how the condo operates, and read through minutes from past board meetings if you want to learn more. In particular, check to see if the condo corporation has a history of demanding one time assessments to cover large repairs. If so, this suggests the board doesn’t properly manage the funds they receive on a monthly basis to anticipate expenses.
Finally, determine all of the costs associated with owning a condo to ensure you can afford it. In addition to your mortgage, you’ll need to pay for condo fees, property taxes, insurance, utilities (if they’re not included) and upkeep of the unit.
For most buyers, the look and feel of the neighbourhood is important. If you can’t tour the area yourself, ask your realtor to take you on a virtual walk around the block.
More than ever, agents are relying on virtual tours to give buyers a closer look at homes. Speak with your realtor to find out more about virtually touring a property you’re interested in.
PRO TIP
Before the tour begins, print out a floor plan of the home so you can easily follow along.
3 tips to help you get approved for a mortgage
If you want to buy a home, you’ll probably need to take out a mortgage. Here are some tips to help you get approved.
1. Improve your credit score
Before you apply for a mortgage, review your credit score. This is the number lenders use to evaluate your credit risk and determine if you’re a good loan candidate. The higher your credit score, the better your mortgage rate is likely to be.
To improve your score, pay your bills on time, keep your credit balances low and reduce the amount of debt you owe.
2. Pay off debts and avoid incurring new ones
Another important factor that mortgage lenders look at is your debttoincome ratio. The lower your debt is compared to your income, the more likely you are to be approved for a home loan. In addition to paying off existing debts, you should reduce the amount of new debt you incur. Take a careful look at how you spend your money and figure out where you can cut back on expenses.
3. Save for the biggest down payment possible
The minimum down payment you need to get a mortgage is five per cent of the home’s total cost. However, if you can afford it, a 20 per cent down payment will lower the balance of your mortgage and alleviate the need for private mortgage insurance, thereby reducing your monthly payments.
If you don’t currently meet the requirements for a home loan, don’t give up. Instead, take steps to improve your financial situation and, once you’re in a better position, try again.
How can we make housing more affordable for everyone? This question poses a challenge, but there are clear steps we can take. First, we must disentangle housing from politics and focus on basic economic principles. When supply is limited, and demand is high, prices will rise. Therefore, our priority should be increasing the housing supply.
One practical approach is to encourage homeowners in Ontario to build secondary suites as it would expand rental options and lower costs. Imagine a neighbourhood where most homes have secondary suites—this would significantly boost rental availability and reduce costs. However, building secondary suites is often bogged down by bureaucratic hurdles, prolonging construction timelines. To address this, we should streamline regulations and provide incentives, such as non-refundable grants, to homeowners who rent out these suites. This approach spreads out housing options more evenly and reduces risks associated with clustered living spaces, like apartment complexes.
Additionally, we need to address the challenges smaller landlords face. Many are leaving the rental market due to counterproductive regulations, which shrink the rental pool and drive-up rents. Streamlining processes, particularly for evictions in cases of non-payment, can help small landlords manage their properties more effectively.
To increase the housing supply
further, we should incentivize settlement in out-of-town communities, relieving pressure on urban centers like the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). For instance, offering seniors incentives to relocate to cheaper homes outside the GTA can free up housing for other families. Small towns have the space to build, so subsidizing home construction costs makes sense. This approach expands housing options and benefits small towns by boosting population growth and reducing the tax burden on urban areas.
We must reduce the costs of building new homes to increase the housing supply. One effective method is manufacturing custom homes in a factory and transporting them to the building site. This approach allows us to mass-produce various components in a controlled factory environment without excessively requiring our skilled construction workforce.
By manufacturing homes indoors, we eliminate concerns related to weather conditions and streamline the inspection process since they are in a controlled environment. This method enables us to produce laneway and backyard suites on a larger scale efficiently. By adjusting our approach, we can also make these secondary dwellings available for sale, providing sellers with additional funds and enabling more families to afford homeownership.
Another strategy to boost the housing supply is to deter speculation through substantial taxation, particularly on newly constructed homes and condos. Let’s examine a pre-construction project scenario where speculators scooped up available units, prompting builders to raise prices. Subsequently, these speculators sell their contracts at inflated prices, benefiting both the builder and themselves. However, by discouraging speculation, we can ensure a larger housing supply for homeowners and long-term property investors.
The concept is straightforward: with fewer speculators, housing supply increases, decreasing market prices.
Expanding the rental supply is crucial to lowering rental costs. However, some private investors argue that overly stringent regulations may deter them from investing, ultimately limiting the availability of rental properties. Rental policies should strive for fairness for both landlords and tenants.
Many landlords can only increase rent by a fixed percentage each year. However, there are cases where long-term tenants are paying rents significantly below market rates. When a rental unit becomes available, landlords may seek to balance the costs associated with these lower-paying tenants by setting the new rent at the highest possible rate.
A rent control system could help address this issue by ensuring that rental
rates across all apartment buildings are fair and consistent, providing stability for landlords and tenants.
Another way to increase the housing supply is to restrict foreign investors and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) from profiting in Canada’s residential real estate market. These investors can influence the market by purchasing large quantities of housing stock, creating an artificial shortage that drives prices upwards. Subsequently, they sell properties at significant profits. Prohibiting this practice could increase the housing supply, and home prices would adjust accordingly.
In conclusion, we can take significant steps towards ensuring affordable housing by disentangling housing from politics, streamlining regulations, and encouraging development in peripheral communities.
Is your toilet showing its age? Are you thinking about investing in a new one? Are you renovating your bathroom and want to update this essential fixture? Beyond aesthetic considerations, here are some telltale signs it might be time for a new commode:
• The toilet leaks or is frequently clogged.
• The flush mechanism works erratically despite attempts at repairing it.
• There are cracks in the porcelain bowl or tank.
• The water tank runs continuously.
• The toilet is unstable and moves when you sit on it.
• The seat is uncomfortable. Modern models feature elongated bowls, which provide more support and comfort than round seats.
• The plumber visits so often that you’ve become friends.
If your toilet is past its prime, you may want to consider swapping it for a low-flow model to reduce your water consumption. Has your water bill recently increased? A faulty toilet could be to blame. It may be wise and cost-effective to replace it.
As the weather warms up, many insects and animals come out of hiding, looking for a place to live or raise their young.
Pests to look out for in spring include small mammals like skunks, groundhogs, raccoons, squirrels and mice. These small but mighty critters can cause damage to your home and yard.
Birds, such as swallows and sparrows, can also build nests in inconvenient places, such as your eavestroughs or attic. During the spring thaw, ants, wasps and other insects can also become an issue.
Depending on the species involved, pest infestations can lead to various consequences. Some risks include:
• Structural damage
• Fires
• Contaminated food
• Allergic reactions to insect bites
• Animal-related diseases
You can do several things to prevent a pest infestation, including keeping the inside of your home clean, regularly emptying the trash, storing food in airtight containers, repairing cracks, replacing damaged weatherstrip, placing screens over vents and trimming overhanging tree branches. Additionally, it’s a good idea to trim overgrown bushes or hedges to eliminate nesting places for rodents.
If pests are still getting into your home despite your best efforts, call a local pest control expert to address the issue. Professionals can quickly and effectively relocate troublesome animals and exterminate unwanted insects.
Every spring, it’s a good idea to inspect your roof to see if it withstood the winter months. This will help you identify any problems and take necessary action. Here’s what you need to know when doing a thorough visual inspection of your roof.
Climbing onto your roof can be risky, so use appropriate safety equipment, including closed-toe, non-slip shoes, a sturdy ladder and a safety harness. Having someone help you stabilize the ladder and be available in an emergency is also a good idea.
Additionally, ensure the roof is dry before inspecting it. Choose a day with minimal wind and cool temperatures to avoid working on a screaming hot surface.
First, remove any debris, such as leaves. Then, inspect all accessible parts of the roof to identify problems such as:
• Standing water
• A damaged or deformed membrane
• An uneven gravel layer
• Cracked sealing joints
• Rusted or flimsy flashing
• Protruding nails
• Missing, broken or lifted shingles
• Mould
It’s also a good idea to examine your attic, walls and ceilings while you’re at it. Check for signs of water infiltration or poor ventilation. Unpleasant odours, mould, excessive moisture and peeling paint are telltale signs that something’s amiss. If you notice an issue, don’t wait for it to worsen. Seek professional help. If you’re uncomfortable inspecting your roof, call a local roofing professional to get the most accurate assessment of your roof’s condition.
ARIES: Before making a decision that could influence your life and that of your loved ones, take the time to think about the long-term consequences. Your generosity will be inspiring, and you’ll share your happiness with the people you love.
TAURUS: Making a few changes to your diet will improve your well-being. Having a deep conversation with your partner will help you avoid conflict and pave the way for a more serious commitment. Thoughtful gestures will be most appreciated.
GEMINI: You could perform a heroic act and save someone from a difficult situation. This will earn you the respect of everyone, even if you only lent a listening ear. Your presence could lighten the mood among your colleagues and your good nature will spread joy.
CANCER: If you plan to move, you’ll start to take the necessary steps more seriously. This includes finding a home that’s perfectly suited to your family, so you can feel more at ease in your own space.
LEO: You’ll expertly express your feelings, demonstrating powerful strength of character. You won’t hesitate to disagree in a direct manner, which will earn you respect at work. This will also increase your efficiency.
VIRGO: You must break free of routine and communicate more openly to deepen your relationship. You could also consider living together if you haven’t already to take things a step further.
LIBRA: Your actions will make your life more exciting and fulfilling. You’ll encounter new challenges at work and home. However, this will promote personal, spiritual and professional growth.
SCORPIO: Sometimes, you must take a step back. You’ll regain your financial or love balance by taking the necessary steps to move in the right direction. The artist benefits from great inspiration.
SAGITTARIUS: Your professional life will see a significant boost, leading to a considerable increase in income. On the romantic front, your partner or someone interested in you will pleasantly surprise you with affectionate gestures.
CAPRICORN: Be on the lookout for a sudden moment of clarity that will guide you toward the path you need to follow to achieve your personal and professional goals. You could even initiate a project close to your heart, leading to something significant.
AQUARIUS: You’ll broaden your personal and professional horizons by undertaking a transformative training course. This new step will bring a renewed passion for life, greatly enriching your prospects for the future.
PISCES: Your emotions will be running high this week and your excitement will be palpable. If you recently got into a new relationship, expect a clear sign of commitment from your partner. Any changes that occur will only lead to happiness.
Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.
Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column, or 3x3 box.
FOR SALE: Hutch and buffet for sale $200. Call 647-200-2116
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WINTER TIRES FOR SALE: 4 winter tires on rims fit a Chevy Equnox ( 235.55.R17 ) $500 or best offer call 416-875-5177
FILM FESTIVAL: Submit your film to the Ann Arbor Black Film Festival TODAY! Give your film a chance to be a part of Ann Arbor’s 200th celebration. Go to a2bff.org
WANTED COOK : Someone to cook once a week at their home large order of Roti, curry chicken and curry potatoes. Cost to be discussed. Email postiexyz@yahoo.ca
CARETAKER: For Weekend Sat and Sun, Must have experience with elderly and canadian reference. Bathurst and Steeles 10:30am to 8:30pm. Call 437-818-5208
Laparkan is looking for a Warehouse Associate in Shipping and Receiving.
No experience necessary. Will train on the Job.
Send Resume to hrca@laparkan.com or call 416-292-4370
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
As part of a recent study on general education levels of teenagers around the world, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development tested 29,000 15-year-olds on their financial literacy. The OECD asked teens from 18 different countries to answer a series of questions that would evaluate their grasp of basic money management skills, including understanding a bank statement, figuring out the long-term cost of a loan, and understanding how insurance works.
The results showed that when it comes to money matters, young North Americans fall mid-range compared to their peers from other countries. This is
particularly troubling in light of the fact that young people are going into debt sooner and in greater numbers in order to pay for further education. About one student in seven who participated in the test was unable to make even simple decisions concerning expenditures.
A few tips for parents
Here are four ways to improve your children’s knowledge of personal finances.
• Explain the difference between gross and net salaries, as well as paycheque deductions.
• Teach them to develop a healthy relationship with money through open and honest conversations about personal finances.
• Encourage them to start managing their own money when they’re mature enough.
• Suggest they manage the budget of an upcoming activity or a fictitious project. You could ask them to budget the next trip to the grocery store, a family vacation, or expenses related to a first apartment.
Do you have a low credit rating? You may have had a few hard knocks, but you can improve your credit standing with a bit of patience and discipline. It won’t change overnight, but it’s important to take control of things right now; your efforts will be well worth it if you want to have a more secure financial future. Here are three tips to get you pointed in the right direction.
1. Pay your bills on time
Get into the habit of paying your bills before the due date. Even if you can only manage the minimum amount due on your credit card this month, make sure you pay it on time. You’re much better off paying the minimum on time than the
full balance late.
2. Don’t max out your cards
Don’t push the set limits on your credit cards. Experts believe that you should keep your credit utilization ratio (what you use versus how much you have to use) below 30 percent. This rule applies to each individual card, and to the cumulative debt of all your cards.
3. Limit your applications for credit
Each time you apply for a loan — a line of credit, personal loan, car loan, or credit card — your application appears on your credit rating. Multiple requests can negatively affect your score, as creditors wonder if all your credit queries are hiding a
serious financial problem.
Are you wondering if you should go to one of those companies that promise to improve your credit rating? Be careful; Industry Canada’s Office of Consumer Affairs says that only your creditors themselves have the power to change the information that is recorded in your credit report. One thing you can do is order a copy of your credit report before you apply for a loan to ensure there are no errors. To do that, all you have to do is contact one of the Canadian credit bureaus, either Equifax (www.equifax.ca) or TransUnion (www.transunion.ca).
If you have a stable budget and hardly any debt, this is the right time to start some kind of deliberate savings plan. Don’t wait a minute longer; the sooner you start, the sooner you’ll see your savings grow.
You don’t need to have a lot of money to begin saving. You can get going by opening a tax free savings account and depositing any amount you’d like to start with. You can deposit up to $5,500 annually in a TFSA; any investment income it generates is tax free. Even cash withdrawals won’t be taxed. The TFSA is a great tool to meet and even exceed your financial goals.
The Canadian Home Buyers’ Plan can help you purchase your first home. Since 1992, the year of its creation, the HBP has helped many Canadians to do just that. Are you interested in benefiting from this program? Here’s what you should know.
To take advantage of the program, you must already have money placed in a registered retirement savings plan. The HBP allows you to withdraw up to $25,000 per person from your RRSP to purchase or build a home in Canada. Several types of homes are eligible. In other
Another great way to start saving is to open a registered retirement savings plan. There are many eligible investments, and the interest rates are better than with regular savings accounts. Your contributions are tax deductible, and your gains are tax free until you withdraw them. Investing in an RRSP is recommended by financial experts as one of the most effective financial strategies for retirement planning.
A representative of a financial institution can help you determine your investor profile. This involves deciding how to spread your precious money among high- and low-risk savings and investment tools. Once you have a better idea of your profile, you can follow an action plan that is tailored to your personal circumstances. On top of a TFSA and RRSPs, you may decide to buy some government savings bonds, guaranteed investment cer tificates issued by banks, mutual funds, stocks, and other financial products designed to give you worthwhile returns.
words, a couple who meets the eligibility requirements may withdraw up to $50,000, tax-free, as capital for their home.
Participants have 15 years to repay the money back into their RRSPs. Each year, the reimbursement must equal at least one-fifteenth of the funds withdrawn. If you wish, you can choose to repay the total amount faster. One way or another, the amount used to repay the HBP cannot be used as a deduction on your tax return. If you’re unable to repay
the required annual amount — in part or in full — it will be treated as income on your tax return.
To learn more about the Home Buyer’s Plan, visit the Service Canada website (www.servicecanada.gc.ca) or the Canada Revenue Agency (www.craarc.gc.ca). You could also make an appointment with a representative of your financial institution to find out more about your home-buying options.
Changing a tire is a routine part of car ownership, and it’s crucial to prioritize safety to prevent accidents and injuries. Follow these safe jacking and lifting practices to ensure a smooth and accident-free experience:
• Always park your vehicle on a flat, stable surface before attempting to jack it up. Avoid sloped or uneven terrain, which can cause the car to shift or fall off the jack.
• Before lifting the vehicle, engage the parking brake to prevent unintended movement.
• Identify the designated jack points on your vehicle, typically indicated in the owner’s manual. Avoid lifting the car from any other location, as this can damage the frame or body.
• Use a high-quality jack rated for your vehicle’s weight and type. Hydraulic floor jacks or scissor jacks are commonly used for lifting cars safely.
• Once the vehicle is lifted, use jack stands to support it securely. Never rely solely on the jack to hold the car in place.
• Use additional safety precautions like wheel chocks or blocks to prevent further movement when working under the vehicle.
Following these safe practices ensures your tire changes and repairs are performed without incident, keeping you and your vehicle safe on the road.
When storing your vehicle for an extended period, proper maintenance is critical to ensure it remains in top condition for when you’re ready to drive it again. Whether you’re storing your car for a seasonal break or an extended vacation, follow these tips to help you preserve its integrity:
1. Clean and prepare the vehicle. Before storing your vehicle, give it a thorough cleaning inside and out. Remove debris and dirt from the interior to prevent odours and potential pest infestations. Wash and wax the exterior to protect the paint from dust buildup.
2. Conduct regular maintenance. Perform essential maintenance tasks before storing your vehicle, including changing the oil and filter and topping up the fuel, antifreeze, windshield washer fluid and brake fluid. You should also inspect the
brakes and tires and charge the battery. Consider using a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation.
3. Take care of the tires. To prevent flat spots on the tires, inflate them to the recommended pressure and use tire cradles or jacks to lift the weight off them. Alternatively, move the vehicle periodically to redistribute the weight and avoid prolonged pressure on one spot.
4. Choose the right storage location. Select a clean, dry and well-ventilated space away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. A breathable car cover can protect your car from dust and moisture while allowing proper airflow.
You can find car care and maintenance products at your local auto centre or hardware store.
