The death of Beverley Noel Salmon on Thursday, July 6th, 2023, triggered a wide range of responses across Toronto and GTA.
She was born to Jamaican Herbert McLean Bell, and Violet Bryan on December 25th, 1930, in Toronto. She studied at Wellesley Hospital in the 1950’s where she graduated as a public health nurse in 1954 with the Distinction of Most Outstanding Nurse.
She started her nursing career in Detroit in 1956 and engaged in civic rights activism, which she continued in Toronto upon her return in the 1960’s. While she had not practiced for many years, Bev has “mothered” and “nursed” countless people facing difficulties and personal problems over the years. Beverly was not only known for leading with a sympathetic ear but would not hesitate to step in as a point person to help people resolve issues and move forward.
Heather Salmon confirmed her death on social media on July 6th, 2023, in a Facebook post. She wrote, “It is with deep sorrow that I share that our beloved mother Beverley Salmon made her transition in the early hours today, July 6th, 2023.” Newly elected Toronto mayor Olivia Chow had fond recollections of the roles she played as a unifying force on Metro Council and her visionary leadership. She tweeted @oliviachow, “As friends and colleagues on Metro Council, I learned a great deal from her leadership, advancing human rights and social justice. Thank you, Bev, for inspiring so many.”
The Urban Alliance of Race Relations tweeted (@UARR) Toronto, “We’re deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Beverley Salmon. As Toronto’s first Black woman to become a city councillor and a founding member of the UARR, Beverley was an extraordinary trailblazer who tirelessly ignited social change and amplified marginalized voices in our community.”
On July 6th, 2023, Dayo Kefentse wrote on her Facebook page, “Beverley Salmon was a giant in Toronto’s Black community. A leader with quiet but clear influence. She let me know I was on the board of Obsidian Theatre Company, and I felt special that it was she who gave me the news. I sat next to her in those
meetings and watched how she thoughtfully offered her perspective with a measure of kindness that was her signature. I would see her at multiple events in the community and city and she would always say hello. Her influence and touch will be missed.”
The Black Business and Professional Association (BBPA) wrote a tribute to Beverly on July 20th, the date of her funeral, in their newsletter. It read, “Today, we gather to bid farewell to Beverly Salmon, a true trailblazer and a passionate advocate for inclusive policies. As Toronto’s first Black female city councillor, Beverly left an indelible mark on our community. Her tireless work in advancing social change and amplifying marginalized voices has inspired generations.
In addition to being a recipient of the Order of Ontario in 2016 and the Order of Canada in 2017, she was also a recipient of the BBPA Harry Jerome Awards in 1998. She was named in the Federation of Canadian municipalities roll of honour, she received the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee, and was appointed a member of the Order of Ontario and the Order of Canada. What a life lived and what an incredible honour it is for us to work for Bev’s outstanding legacy. I hope you take honour knowing that your mother touched so many lives.”
The Celebration of Life services for Beverly Salmon was held at St. John’s York Mills Anglican Church in North York, Toronto. There were personal reflections from The Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Dr. Jean Augustine, and Elaine Mintz. Family reflections were read by daughter Leslie Salmon Jones and son-inlaw Jeff Jones as well as reflections from grandchildren: Caitlyn, Tyler, Jordan, Sierra, and Shakarri. There were musical tributes by The Nathaniel Dett. Chorale conducted by D. Brainerd Blyden-Taylor, soloists; Jackie Richardson and Morley Shanti-Kamen and Niyongere Family. Donny Regalmuto accompanied on the piano and Jeff W. Jones on the bass.
The obituary was read by Warren Salmon who shared personal details about his mother and how he met her dad, Dr. Douglas Salmon. He mentioned that she was one of the founders of
Caribana in 1967, Urban Alliance on Race Relations in 1975, supported the Ontario Black History Society with Dr. Daniel Hill and became one of the first Black Female Commissioners of the Ontario Human Rights Commission.
He noted that his mother enrolled her children in the Black Heritage Program in Flemington Park in order for them to know their history and culture. Her love for the community was recognized when she adopted a single family of three who lived in Regent Park.
After she was elected in 1985 at the municipal level as an alderman, her first motion was to change “alderman” to “councillor” which is still used today. She was Vice-Chair of the TTC, engaged in educational advocacy with the Toronto District School Board, was a member of the Black Liaison Committee, and formed the Black Educators Work Group.
He concluded, “Mom really set a good example by living her life to the fullest, and she showed us about living a life of service, treating others with dignity and respect and also living a well-balanced life, while having courage and tenacity.”
She lived a life of service and was an advocate for the marginalized and disenfranchised. Bev worked tirelessly and courageously as a champion of fair and equitable treatment of all regardless of their: race, gender identity, sexual expression, ability, or ethnicity.
Bev was a social justice warrior, whose impact and presence will be missed here in Toronto, and throughout Canada.
lovers of the beautiful island of Jamaica were introduced to a new show “The Listing” hosted by the vibrant former Miss Jamaica Festival Queen, Anjell Edwards. It is a reality infotainment variety show on all things real estate that gives viewers not only an intimate look into the lives of homeowners as they share their stories of ownership and how they got there, but how you too can finally buy that property you have been dreaming of.
Humans are inherently curious beings. We are naturally drawn to learning about the lives of others, especially those who have achieved a level of fame, or success that seems unattainable to most. This curiosity about the lives of famous people satisfies our desire for novelty and intrigue.
It is why shows like “Lives of the Rich and Famous,” and “Cribs” were so popular. Following the lives of famous individuals provides a form of escapism from our own daily routines and challenges. People often find entertainment and enjoyment in learning about the glamorous, exciting, and sometimes even controversial aspects of celebrities’ lives.
For many of us, that celebrity that we admire most often comes to symbolize certain ideals, values, or cultural movements. They may represent specific beauty standards, lifestyles, or societal trends, making them important figures to follow and discuss.
So, when a show comes along that satisfies our curiosity, we are instantly captivated, and on Sunday July 30th, 2023,
“The Listing is not just your ordinary advertising of homes; this show has life and passion,” Creator, Executive Producer and the Chief Executive Officer of Absolut Ventures Limited, Alrick McKenzie, explained. “We will be visiting the homes of some of Jamaica’s well-known celebrities and finding out how they live behind the lime lights, but that is just a small entity of the show. We want people to learn how they can reach the point of acquiring their own homes despite the uncertainty of the economy, and then taking it from acquiring that empty building, to making their living space as comfortable as possible.”
Although the intent of the show is to highlight the rich and famous, stories are also shared by average homeowners who have invested in beautiful luxurious condos extravagantly decorated villas, seafront construction projects, and magnificent mansions.
“Owning a home is one of the biggest investments anyone could ever make in their life,” Alrick said. “So, it is very
important that people are aware of what is out there, what it takes to get there, how to maintain such a living and even options of places to go when they want to get away —that home away from home.”
“The Listing” comes at a very good time as never before has real estate been so robust in Jamaica. Alrick is happy to be a part of this exciting time in Jamaica; not only is he tapping into the wealth of the island, but he is also celebrating the launch of the show, making him the only Executive Producer in the history of media in Jamaica and the Caribbean to have created and own nine television shows.
“The Listing,” which airs for 13 weeks, will also be exploring luxury villas, vacation spots and unique properties not only in Jamaica but also across the: Caribbean, US, Canada and UK and other territories. In fact, “The Listing” seeks to capture exciting activities during the visits to some of these breathtaking properties.
People may see themselves in the stories of famous individuals, identifying with their struggles, successes, or personal journeys. This identification can lead to a sense of inspiration and motivation, as individuals aspire to achieve similar levels of success or overcome obstacles.
The over 700,000 targeted viewers along with over one million subscribers across US, Canada and the UK, will not only be educated on how to access real estate but will be updated on home solutions currently available. People will be given legal steps on how to go about
owning and keeping their homes and provided with investment opportunities in the real estate market.
“The Listing” has been designed to offer hope to individuals and their families while impacting the country’s economy in a positive way. The show’s season is supported by The Jamaica National Group Limited and EdgeChem Jamaica Limited.
• Professional development
• Mentoring to help inform and prepare them for their transition to a career in tech
The names of the recipients, backgrounds, accomplishments, and studies are:
Destiny Osunbiyi
It has been two years now since Reason One has been making a difference in the lives of young people who are pursuing a career in the tech field. According to its website: www.reasononeinc.com, is a full-service digital agency partner to non-profits, healthcare providers, and socially conscious businesses. The agency provides strategy, design, development and matching services to help those who do good, do better.
The agency has hub locations in: Toronto, Ontario and Charleston S.C. Its mentoring and scholarship program gives awards to Black students 17 years and older and less than 35 years old who are currently enrolled, or have accepted a program in a digital discipline with the hope of finding a career in tech. Details about this can be seen on www.reasononeinc.com/romps.
In the promotional email, Ben Coach, Founding Partner of Reason One states, “This year due to the exceptional quality of applicants, we have decided to select four winners instead of the originally planned three. The remarkable talent and passion, displayed by the candidates inspired us, to recognize and support these four outstanding individuals notwithstanding their extraordinary achievement and potential.”
The four applicants were selected from the State of South Carolina and the province of Ontario. The top ten finalists were picked and interviewed by the Scholarship Committee. The criteria used for selection include:
• Financial needs
• Career aspirations to make the tech industry more inclusive
• Extra-curricular activities
• Community service
The funds may go towards the cost of tuition, books, supplies and living expenses. Recipients who develop a 1-year relationship with Reason One’s team will be able to acquire the following benefits:
• Career planning
Destiny just completed her high school education and will be attending York University to pursue a Bachelor of Science in: Biomedical Engineering, Design and Tech. Her interests lie in the areas of science, technology, photography and digital arts. She is the recipient of a scholarship and she plays volleyball on the Varsity Women’s team. She is presently working as an RBC Summer Tech Labs intern as an Innovation Developer.
Katherine Daley-Chigbu
Katherine will be specializing in computer engineering in her second year after her acceptance into the Track One Undeclared Engineering Program at the University of Toronto. She will be a participant in this university’s Personal Experience Year Co-op Program which will broaden her career options. She intends to pursue a career in the automated manufacturing services sector working with robots.
Nolawi Teklehaimano
Nolawi will be commencing her studies at the University of Toronto in September 2023. She was the founder of a coding club that had more than 50 members and participated as management in the course with 10 executives. She volunteered with S.L.Y.E and hosted several virtual workshops in partnership with MACCA, and in conjunction with Stolen from Africa. She plans to pursue a career in compliance engineering in pursuit of her vision to make a long-lasting impact on the world.
Amber Oglesby
Amber is a veteran of the American Army and participated in the Vet-Tech Program, which is an initiative launched by the Veteran Army to help veterans make the transition to civilian jobs after completing military service. She will start a Master’s Degree in Computer Science in the fall of 2023, now that she completed her Innerserivce software development program at Carolina Code School. In moving from the medical field to the technical field, she hopes to use her core values as a platform to make a significant and influential impact on the community.
1531 EGLINTON AVE W GREEN P CAR PARK
MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com TC REPORTER
As a person who competed in Calypso in this city for decades, it always bothered me why judges took forever to come up with the results, and then have that prize withdrawn I can just imagine the disappointment, shock and straight up pain this child will experience once she finds out what is taking place with her reign.
The child in question here is nineyear-old Myauna King-Thomas, who represented the band Toronto Revelers and won the title of Junior Queen of the Bands, which was announced at the event on Sunday, July 16th, 2023, between 9-10 pm. This was after more than two hours of waiting on the judges’ deliberations.
Let’s get into why this pulling of the results is damaging to this child, or any child’s mental state. Public attraction accompanies a win and much more of the same happens when a winning decision is reversed or tampered with.
Here are the highs.... as a result of this win
• Sunday, July 16th, 2023- Myauna KingThomas received a prize from the Ontario Science Centre with a promise that her costume would be on display at the Ontario Science Centre sometime in the future to be arranged.
• Monday, July 17th, 2023- Myauna KingThomas at her own cost, appeared on Breakfast Television and CP24 represent-
ing Toronto Caribbean Carnival as the Junior Queen of the Bands.
• Saturday, July 24th, 2023- Myauna King-Thomas appeared at the Toronto Caribbean Carnival Junior Parade and was announced as the Junior Queen of the Bands.
• Saturday, July 24th, 2023- Myauna King-Thomas was interviewed by CP24, again representing Toronto Caribbean Carnival as the winner of Junior Queen of the Bands.
• Saturday, July 24th, 2023- Myauna King-Thomas was awarded winnings from the Ontario Secondary School Union for winning the title of Junior Queen of the Bands.
• Thursday, July 27th, 2023- Myauna King-Thomas, at her own cost delivered and set up the costume for the Blue Jays game – Caribbean night- representing Toronto Caribbean Carnival as Junior Queen of the Bands.
• Friday, July 28, 2023- Myauna KingThomas, at her own cost attended the Blue Jays game with other Junior Winners to represent Toronto Caribbean Carnival.
Once more let’s have a look at the low point of all this, bearing in mind she is only nine. A little over two weeks after celebrating your big win, your band and family are told first that there is a tie for first place, but you will be allowed to be the winner. How does a nine–year–old process this mess that is being called a decision review?
As of the time this article is written, FMC has not apologized to the general public for their blunder, and as if that was not enough, they released a statement that read as though it was written by Trinidad Rio... “The Big Word Man.”
The statement reads like this. “The results initially announced were unofficial, and upon thorough verification and rectification of tabulation errors, there have been adjustments
to the outcome.” The statement ended with them promising to do better in 2024.
Mischka Crichton however, issued a short apology to the family and Myuana, which read like this, “I sincerely apologize for the inconveniences this may have caused and wish Myuana and family all the best in continuing her time as Junior Queen 2023.”
In conclusion, has FMC ever heard about the term conflict of interest?
Mischka Crichton happens to be the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival. This woman comes from a family of “Carnivalists” and Mas people. A closer look into her Mas-band background revealed that she has massive ties to the band Carnival Nationz, who have a winning reputation and this year’s results speak for themselves.
It is a known fact that a few years ago Mischka celebrated her third “female individual” wins representing the band Carnival Nationz, all of this can be found online.
My humble questions here are why
have Carnival Nationz results not been reviewed?
Who ordered the review of nine-yearold Myauna King-Thomas’s winning decision after two weeks of silence? Why was this review done?
Mr. Linden King, who is the nine-yearold’s grandfather said, “I feel very disappointed, and disheartened. This is a child, and it is taking quite a toll on the family. We are a tight family, and to see things like that destroy my family. I have a problem with that. This could have been handled differently.”
Mr. King told me he requested true copies of all the score sheets signed by the judge’s administrator for the category of Junior Queen of the Band: So far FMC has not provided him with this information.
There must be an expiry date on this sort of wrongdoing. To FMC and Toronto Caribbean Carnival, your supporters, the public, and little Myauna deserve better, please do better.
“It is a moment to reflect and to celebrate. A moment to reflect on all those who came before, all those who fought for freedom and all those who continue to inspire us every day to do more to stand up, to be better allies.”
The Freedom Train Ride is a unique event that commemorates the abolition of slavery in the British Empire. Hosted by the Toronto Transit Commission, in support of Blackhurst Cultural Centre (formerly A Different Booklist Cultural Centre), it marks Emancipation Day, which in Canada is August 1st.
“It’s the Canadian fabric; the history,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said. “Because those people that escaped America seeking freedom here have now become integral members of a society, of a community, of a country that has embraced these people and incorporated them into the day-to-day living and experience of Canada.”
Freedom! I find it ironic that the man who has quite sinisterly stripped Canadians of our freedoms is found at a freedom event hosted by African Caribbean Canadians. I saw him taking pictures online with leaders in our community, and it made me wonder, are we aware that after all of these years, our government is still bamboozling us, using verbiage, and photo ops as distractions, all the while stripping us of the freedoms that they say that they are protecting?
On May 3rd, 2021, Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau issued the following statement on World Press Freedom Day:
“Today, on World Press Freedom Day, we celebrate the invaluable role that journalists play in Canada and around the world, and honour all those who have lost their lives in pursuit of the truth. We also rededicate ourselves to a fairer and more inclusive future where everyone, everywhere, is free to make their voices heard.
The theme of this year’s World Press Freedom Day is ‘Information as a Public Good’. It reminds us that quality, clear, and truthful information is essential for a democratic society based on the values of honesty and respect, fairness and justice, freedom and dignity.
On behalf of all Canadians, I thank journalists everywhere who give us the facts to make better sense of the world, contribute to our communities, and lead freer, richer lives. They are democracies’ first line of defense, and the cornerstone of any fair, strong, and vibrant society.”
Hmmmmm! Oh, really Prime Minister Trudeau. Now only a couple years later, we have Bill C-18 (Online
News Act), which has been presented as a framework that would require digital giants such as Google and Meta to develop agreements with Canadian news sites to provide them with compensation for sharing their online news content through links or other means.
What it has done is officially end news availability in Canada. That is right; platforms like Toronto Caribbean Newspaper can no longer provide news about our people for our people on Google, Facebook, or Instagram. You can imagine my shock when I went on our news pages and saw that they had removed ALL of our content. I won’t lie, I was first outraged, and then overcome with anguish. As a paper, we have worked diligently delving deep into important issues and uncovering hidden truths. We have helped expose corruption, misconduct, and injustices that might have otherwise gone unnoticed.
Despite being blacklisted, ridiculed, and ostracized, we strive to provide balanced and objective coverage of various topics, and present different perspectives and viewpoints fairly. Our main objective: having our readers form opinions based on a well-rounded understanding of the issues.
We cover a wide range of topics, including local, national, and international news, which keeps our readers informed about events happening in their communities as well as significant developments around the world. We advocate for the public interest and work to hold those in power accountable.
Now, we have Liberal imposed Bill C-18 that has removed news for all Canadian users of its popular Facebook and Instagram platforms. In June, the company started running a test that limited news for up to five percent of users. That means Canadians will no longer be able to share or view news articles and other content posted by publishers and broadcasters, including international outlets.
News links to articles, reels -which are short-form videos -- or stories, which are photos and videos that disappear after 24 hours, are also expected to be affected by the block.
The bill requires tech companies to compensate Canadian news organizations when their content appears on their platforms. The federal government says the bill is to help the Canadian news industry, which has seen falling subscriptions and ad revenue over time as those profits shift to Google and Facebook.
According to an Angus Reid report released in July, 85% of Canadians do not pay for any online news subscriptions and Canadians under the age of 64 usually check social media sites such as Facebook and Reddit first to get their news. The Parliamentary Budget Officer, which provides economic and financial analysis to the government as an independent body, estimates the bill would shift around $329 million to the Canadian news industry.
Supporters of the Liberal government’s bill say that it is a way to keep
tech giants in check and cut into their digital dominance and that journalists should be compensated for their work being used to help tech giants bring in more eyes and thus more ad revenue. How is any of this possibly constitutional? How does the entire Bill C-18 framework fit within the federal government’s authority? It isn’t broadcast, it isn’t telecommunications, and it isn’t copyright. If the government claims powers over anything involving the internet, then it believes there are no real limits on its power.
I came across an article titled, “Internet Censorship 2023: A Global Map of Internet Restrictions,” and I found that internet censorship is happening worldwide, and to no surprise, even more so after the pandemic. The two countries at the top of the list were North Korea and China (no surprise there). There isn’t anything either of them doesn’t heavily censor thanks to their iron grip over the entire internet.
Citizens are unable to use western social media, watch porn, or use torrents or VPNs*. All of the political media published in the country is heavily censored and influenced by the government. Both countries also shut down messaging apps from abroad, forcing residents to use ones that have been made (and are likely controlled) within the country, e.g., WeChat in China. Not only does WeChat have no form of endto-end encryption, but the app also has backdoors that enable third parties to access messages.
I want to remind everyone that our Prime Minister has openly expressed his admiration for China; is it any surprise that our country is starting to resemble the country that he holds in such high esteem?
The researchers compared the scores for countries from their 2021 study to their 2023 study; there are 27 countries that appear to have upped their censorship. Five countries have introduced more than one new censorship rule. Sri Lanka added three new means of censoring– these were the banning of torrents, restricting certain VPNs, and long blockages of social media due to protests in the country.
18 countries have banned or shut down torrenting sites. A further 25 European countries also have measures in place but aren’t blocking websites as of yet (Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia) to name a few.
What this makes me reflect on is the struggle for freedom of speech and civil rights, which has been a significant part of the history of African people in many parts of the world, especially in countries with a history of racial discrimination and systemic oppression. Throughout history, African individuals and communities have faced various forms of censorship, suppression, and violence when trying to exercise their
right to freedom of speech and expression.
In the United States, for example, African Americans have had to overcome immense challenges to assert their right to speak out and advocate for their rights. During slavery, enslaved people were often prohibited from learning to read and write, and they faced severe punishments for attempting to communicate their experiences or ideas. Even after the abolition of slavery, Jim Crow laws and racial segregation continued to limit the ability of Black individuals to express themselves freely.
Throughout the Civil Rights Movement in the mid-20th century, African activists and leaders fought for equal rights, including the right to freedom of speech and expression. They organized protests, marches, and speeches to demand an end to racial segregation, voting discrimination, and other injustices. Many faced violent backlash and repression from authorities and white supremacist groups.
While progress has been made over time, challenges to freedom of speech for African individuals and communities persist in various forms, including online harassment, racial profiling, and attempts to silence voices advocating for racial justice and equality.
Yet here we are again. Bill C-18 is shamefully over-broad, an embarrassment to the news media lobby that demanded it, and unworthy of a government that sees itself as a model for the rest of the world on media freedoms.
When I spoke with members of the community, one provoking thought was clear; African creators are the lifeblood of many popular social networks. So why don’t we create our own?
As a community newspaper, we will continue to stand up against injustice, and direct attacks against our freedoms. We play a pivotal role in safeguarding human rights, promoting equality, and fostering positive social change. History has shown that positive social change is often driven by individuals and groups who are willing to confront and challenge injustice. Holding individuals, institutions, and systems accountable for their actions is crucial for preventing further injustices. When people speak out against injustice, it sends a clear message that wrongdoing will not be tolerated, which will lead to increased accountability and improved behavior.
This requires the collective efforts of individuals, communities, and institutions to challenge the status quo, demand accountability, and work towards a more just and inclusive society.
WE ARE NOT FREE, and we need to know this. It is time to stand together, build together, and stop utilizing their platforms. Don’t worry community, Toronto Caribbean Newspaper is not going anywhere. There are loopholes with everything, and believe me when I say, we are going to find them and exploit them. The revolution will not be televised!
JUSTIN
It is going to take the collective efforts of individuals, communities, and institutions to challenge the status quo
acknowledge and address the systemic discrimination that Indigenous peoples faced for generations.
Similarly, discussions around systemic racism and discrimination against Black, Indigenous, and other marginalized communities have gained attention in Canada. There have been instances of racially biased policing, employment disparities, and unequal access to services and opportunities.
“Canada has a historic opportunity to heal the wounds of history – and to achieve positive change that benefits not just the Black community, but every Canadian. Bold and courageous change --in policy, legislation, research, and investment -- requires leadership, vision and action.” The Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean
Over the years, there have been discussions and reports highlighting instances of systemic discrimination and inequities within various sectors, including but not limited to law enforcement, education, healthcare, and employment.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, for example, focused on the history and legacy of the country’s residential school system, which had a significant impact on Indigenous peoples and communities. This Commission’s work aimed to
Her Excellency The Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, 27th Governor General of Canada, and the Michaëlle Jean Foundation have called on the Government of Canada to settle the class action lawsuit brought by past and present public service employees.
The class action lawsuit is a landmark case filed against the entire Federal Public Service of Canada for failing to hire and promote Black Canadians on account of their race. The legal action is seeking compensation for decades of damages, a mental health fund, a diversity plan, and changes to the Employment Equity Act to recognize the unique exclusion of Black Canadians in employment. Canada has acknowledged that systemic discrimination exists in all of its institutions, even at the Canadian Human Rights Commission.
“The Michaëlle Jean Foundation gives its unwavering support for the legal action taken on behalf of past and present
federal public service workers who identify as Black, Caribbean or of African descent. We stand in solidarity with the Black Class Action Secretariat in pursuing equity and participation in the workplace, against all forms of racial discrimination. We call on Canada to settle this lawsuit and address the harm caused to Black Canadians, namely recognizing Black Canadians as a separate designated group under the Employment Equity Act,” she expressed in an open statement.
“Black workers are disproportionately impacted by policies and practices that create systemic barriers to their hiring, promotion and advancement, leading to the gross under-representation of Black workers at senior levels.
Black public service workers encounter high levels of racial trauma often manifested in anxiety, shame, loss of confidence and dignity, financial loss and even suicidal ideation. These damages include the wrongful failure to promote, intentional infliction of mental suffering, constructive dismissal, wrongful termination, negligence, and in particular, violations of employment law, human rights law and Charter breaches.
As a result of systemic discrimination, the measures put in place by Canada have failed to redress these harms and have instead perpetuated and exacerbated the systemic inequalities and racism faced by Black Canadians, particularly in the hiring and
promotion practices within the PSC. Consequently, this has increased systemic racism in a way that has deprived Black employees of opportunities and benefits afforded to others based on their race, despite their merit and willingness to contribute to Canadian society through public service.”
“We welcome this timely intervention by Her Excellency The Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean,” states Nicholas Marcus Thompson, Executive Director of the Black Class Action Secretariat. “Canada has publicly agreed to create a mental health program to address racial trauma caused by systemic anti-Black discrimination, in Court it denies that the discrimination exists. Canada’s human rights violations against Black Canadians must come to an end. We call on the Minister of Justice and Attorney General Arif Virani and the President of the Treasury Board Anita Anand to come to the table with the parties and work together to right these historic and ongoing injustices.”
In a final note The Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean calls on the government of Canada, “We call on Canada to resolve this lawsuit and address the harm caused to Black Canadians, namely recognizing Black Canadians as a separate designated group under the Employment Equity Act.”
Time to acknowledge! Time to change! Time to act!
• Updates/changes to their existing accounts, and themselves on their JN portfolio
• Connections with national and non-financial companies in the JN Group
paul@carib101.com
JN Bank has been very active in Jamaica and Canada in providing a range of financial services. Through the JN Canada representative, they connect the Jamaican diaspora community in Canada to their homeland. The office was opened in 1991 largely due to insistence of Jamaicans living in Canada who wanted to continue their interaction with the Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS), for liaison services in Canada.
Some of services JN Bank offer includes:
• Mortgages on properties in Jamaica as well as other loans such as auto loans
• Deposits and other investment instruments
In my email communication with Anthony Morgan (Corporate Communications of the Jamaica National Group) I forwarded a list of questions regarding the JN Bank and the bursaries that were awarded to at the Alliance of Jamaica Alumni Association (AJAA) Graduates Ceremony held on July 9th, 2023, at the Levanzo Event Centre & Eatery in Concord, Ontario. The AJAA is a charitable umbrella organization of 40 Toronto-based alumni associations affiliated with educational institutions in Jamaica. The theme for the event was, “Celebrating our legacy-embracing the future.” It was a fitting description of the celebrative aspects of the day’s event which was the 30th annual bursary and luncheon.
The two bursaries worth $1,000 each were given out by Paulette Sterling (Chief Representative Officer) of the Jamaica National Bank who along with Lincoln Downer (Consul General of Jamaica), and Executive members of the Alliance of Jamaica Alumni
Association were present. The motivation to award the bursaries is based on the core values of JN Group. Simply put, it goes to the heart of who they are and their core purpose - an organization centered on enriching the lives of Jamaica and building communities. JN Bank, a member of the JN Group, is focused on helping people find a way to realize their full potential and attain better outcomes.
Ms. Sterling started with JNBS in 1993 and started her present role in October 2022. She has an outstanding track record in professional banking of over 20 years. Her professional journey has afforded her the opportunity to apply new learning, imagine and transform the operations and delivery of various retail services as well as the customer experience within a multinational organization. “JN Group is keen on helping other students in the future. In fact, we are committed to continue supporting the communities we serve focusing on education, financial empowerment, social enterprise, health and safety as well as youth leadership and development. To this end, we are continually reviewing the needs against our capacity to contribute.”
The bursary winners included:
Cedric Campbell
Cedric is a graduate of CW Jefferys Collegiate Institute who will be completing a Cyber Security Architect degree at the Toronto Metropolitan University. He has been active as a volunteer to tackle period poverty, completed the U of T’s Summer mentorship programme, and was part of a team that designed a website to help identify BIPOC students who were interested in pursuing a career in medical sciences. He has over seven years of experience as a guitar soloist and performed at the famous Massey Hall in Toronto to an audience of more that 2,000.
Risheema Edwards
Risheema overcame many obstacles, challenges and setbacks through perseverance, growth and resilience. Her future plans, “I want to become a successful businesswoman after completing a degree in Business Marketing at Seneca College.” She was inspired by her father, a former soccer player for Jamaica and she gives of her time to help out at soccer camps.
Canadian hip-hop holds significant cultural and artistic importance, which has contributed to both the global hip-hop movement and Canada’s own cultural identity. While perhaps not as well-known internationally as American hip-hop, Canadian hip-hop has steadily grown in prominence and influence.
Canadian hip-hop provides a platform for the diverse voices and experiences of Canada’s multicultural population, especially the Caribbean population. Artists have used the genre to express their unique perspectives, contributing to a rich tapestry of narratives within the country’s cultural landscape.
Like hip-hop around the world, Canadian hip-hop often serves as a form of social commentary. Artists address issues such as inequality, racism, urban struggles, and other social and political concerns, sparking important conversations and raising awareness. Over the years, several Canadian hip-hop artists have gained recognition and success on a global scale. Names like Maestro Fresh Wes, Drake, The Weeknd, Tory Lanez, Solitair, and Kardinal Official have achieved commercial and critical acclaim, contributing to the genre’s international reputation.
On Friday August 11th, 2023, the world celebrated the 50th Anniversary
of Hip Hop, and two incredible women: Jonsaba Jabbi and Alannah Johnson have taken their love of hip hop to a new level. They cofounded Building A Black Archive (BABA), a grassroots community initiative dedicated to promoting and preserving African-Canadian histories and experiences. They recently shared with the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper their collaboration with the Queens Public Library in New York City and The Gates Preserve to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop.
Anyone who knows me, knows that I am a hip hop head. I have always felt akin to this genre, and it brings back pleasant memories of Rap City day’s and making sure I caught the latest episode of Xtendamix with Master T. When I received this story, I reached out to Jonsaba and Alannah, and we had a great discussion celebrating a genre that we all loved.
“What sparked the idea of Building A Black Archive,” I inquired?
“This started for us in 2019,” Jonsaba shares with me. “We have a mutual friend who connected us with our love of Black History, and I reached out to Alannah over Facebook. We found out that we are both half-Grenadian. There was these six degrees of separation that was incredible. We decided to go on this journey together, so we started Building A Black Archive. BABA means father or Elder in many African cultures, which is fitting. We bonded over Canadian Hip Hop, and the lack of archives.”
“We focus on contemporary Black History,” Alannah chimed in. “It is unfortunate that when we are learning about our history, we are reduced to a certain area of study (slavery). Part of our work is to unearth and document contemporary Black Canadian histories and experiences as well as histories and experiences within the
African diaspora. Our work includes workshops, speaking engagements, community archival work, consultations and an annual artist residency program for Black artists. “How did you manage to connect with Queens Public Library, and The Gates Preserve?”
“It was in June 2023,” Alannah shares. “We were wrapping up a youth residency in which we were teaching them the tools of archiving. We really wanted to go to New York, they do a lot more archiving than we do. We were introduced to Syreeta Gates (Gates Preserve - Queens New York), and we learned about Queens Public Library, one of the largest multicultural and diverse library systems in the United States. Syreeta told us about all the work that she was doing with The Gates Preserve, a multimedia company committed to archiving and repurposing hip hop, and she invited BABA to become one of 40 collaborative partners for the library’s 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop Programming.”
“We were delighted to participate in this landmark anniversary celebration,” said Jonsaba Jabbi, BABA Co-Founder and Director. “This collaboration commemorated the cultural significance of Hip Hop and fostered a sense of appreciation for its artistic contributions. Our involvement as the sole Canadian partner allowed us to showcase the rich heritage of Canadian Hip Hop and its pivotal role in the global Hip Hop movement.”
As a key collaborator, BABA will be responsible for producing and creating six pieces of programming.
“This was our opportunity to uplift Canadian Hip Hop. There are a lot of young people who don’t know about Canadian Hip Hop before Drake. We felt the need to amplify great Canadian hip hop and the issues that surrounded it,” Jonsaba tells me.
“Do you remember when Maestro Fresh Wes spoke to the Oka Crisis. This is the type of depth that is found, and we have to preserve that.”
The archive will work under the guidance of Syreeta Gates, Hip Hop Archivist and founder of The Gates Preserve, to create programming inclusive of social media posts; videos; reels; and virtual and in-person events that amplify the impact of Canadian Hip Hop on the global movement. As part of the Hip Hop 50 programming, BABA will also animate and curate the window of TYPE bookstore’s Junction location during the month of August.
“The project promises to be an engaging experience and BABA’s involvement adds a distinctive international dimension to the celebration,” Alannah explains. “Through this partnership we aim to inspire and educate audiences about the roots and evolution of this dynamic art form, and we are happy to amplify old school Canadian Hip Hop on the global stage.”
The celebration culminated in a two-day ‘Hip Hop 50 Summit’ on August 3rd -4th at LaGuardia Performing Arts Center in Long Island City, Queens The programming collaboration embodies a shared commitment to promoting and preserving diverse cultural narratives. Together BABA, The Queens Public Library and The Gates Preserve are creating a vibrant tapestry of Hip Hop’s journey, drawing upon its past to illuminate its path forward.
For more information on the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop Programming follow Building A Black Archive on social media at @buildingablackarchive or email them at hello@buildingablacarchive.com.
Creating a vibrant tapestry of Hip Hop’s journey; Celebrating 50 years of Hip Hop
event, where invited celebrities, VIPs, and attendees were treated to complimentary products, services, and gifts from some of the most prestigious brands and sponsors. The concept behind Carnival Oasis was to provide a unique and luxurious experience for the attendees while allowing brands to showcase their products and services.
moment at their step-and-repeat wall.
Just like that, we were immersed in an enchanting treasure hunt-themed gifting suite: Shea Moisture, Wagners, Jems, Joico, STMNT, Maneuver, Hudson’s Bay, Clore Beauty, LMNT, Phoneloops, DIY tattoo cabana presented by Inkbox, oh wow!
“Carnival Oasis is a pass-through lounge. The intention is to stay as long as you’d like.”
I received an email from both Craigg Slowly, and Jackie Clark about their upcoming gifting lounge. I recalled that they had hosted one last year, and from the pictures, it looked like quite the event. Yes! This year I got that invite. I have never been to a gifting lounge before, but my first experience taught me everything I needed to know. This year’s “Carnival Oasis” Toronto’s 2nd annual Caribbeaninspired gifting lounge was an exclusive
Upon entering, we were greeted by a beautiful young lady, who took time to explain the layout and offerings. I have to admit that I was overwhelmed; it was such an incredible scene. DJ Mars Forever had set the perfect vibe; I saw other guests exploring various stations; as I looked to my right, I saw Pink Cherry, and it looked like there were some fun things happening over there. Sensual toys, hmmm…
Carnival Oasis was designed to create a luxurious and upscale ambiance. The decor, lighting, and seating arrangements contributed to an inviting and comfortable environment. After we collected our exclusive tote bag from Puma, we went back outside to capture a picture-perfect
After collecting all of our goodies, we headed outside. There had been whispers about something happening at Visit Barbados. Something about a complimentary cocktail and rum tasting experience. We walked over and saw that there were other delightful concoctions from Vin Bon, Kraken, Wine Bros, Limin and Vibin, BK Whiskey, and more!
As I sipped my drink, I had a chance to look around, really take in what was happening. Carnival Oasis had attracted some pretty high-profile people: Director of Operations at Artxperiential Projects Shawn Cuffie, Esteemed Author Dalton Higgins, Founder Matrix Mortgage Global, Shawn Allen, and the gorgeous, talented Kapri
were just some of Toronto’s elite. Attendees had the opportunity to interact with these celebrities, take photos presented by DLUXE Photobooths, and Pixperience. It was a highly photogenic environment, and attendees were sharing their experiences on social media platforms, which I could see was generating buzz for both the event and the participating brands.
My guest entered to win a hotel stay at Stonefield Resorts in Saint Lucia, and wouldn’t you know it, she actually won. You know what that means; I will be heading to St. Lucia.
Beyond gifts, Carnival Oasis offered an unforgettable brand activation experience showcasing the traditions of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival. Overall, the gifting lounge combined luxury, exclusivity, product exposure, and social interaction to create a memorable and enjoyable time for invited guests. Hopefully they will ask me to join them next year!!
Some of the specific programs that Broad Reach Canada offers are:
Ship 2 Shores
It has been 25 years now since the non-profit charity Broad Reach Canada has been offering sailing lessons to BIPOC youth. Their mission is to engage under-represented youth in sailing to develop knowledge, skills and social belonging.
Since it was launched in 1988, they have been committed to their vision to inspire youth through the power of sailing and have taken actions to reach BIPOC youth. They are committed to fostering greater equity and inclusion within these communities, and positively influencing the personal growth of youth from various backgrounds. They promote a world without systemic structure that creates fear, is unjust, or upholds racial oppression. They are committed to examining real ways that we can help to dismantle systemic racism in our society. They are also committed to being transparent in this process; to listen, learn, and move forward together in shared understanding.
This is an exciting and rare opportunity to learn, give back and have fun, while sailing amazing tall ships and sailboats. In addition to learning how to sail, you’ll make friends, grow your interpersonal skills, and serve your community through a project of your choice. Currently all the voyage opportunities are fully booked and there is a waiting list for this free program.
Summer A-Float
Each of their sailboats offers a different level of operational complexity providing youth with continuity of challenges to learn, to apply new knowledge and skills, and to embrace unique opportunities for development.
Winter A-Shore
Classroom-based activities that include S.T.E.A.M. related subjects: sailing and navigation theory workshops: understanding of all aspects of vessel maintenance; study and examination for the Pleasure Craft Operators Card with professional certification, following the successful completion of the examination; exploration of marine art and history; the design, construction, and sailing of a cardboard sailboat is the school’s swimming pool.
Come Black Tuesdays
This is for those youth who are keener than others to learn, to sail and to reach for more opportunities. Come on every Tuesday and be a keener!
Some of the benefits of sailing which are listed on its website include the following:
Spark confidence
Use the transformative power of sail to spark confidence in the next generation of leaders-across Canada and from vulnerable and at-risk backgrounds.
Workforce development
Equip kids with the skills and knowledge to get good jobs.
Getting along
Being a crewmember aboard a sailing ship is the ultimate training to become a collaborative team player.
Boats are cool
Seriously. They’ve got these huge sails and they go fast when the wind blows. This speaks to kids.
I interviewed Charles Waterman CEO and President of Broad Reach Canada on Wednesday, August 9th, 2023. He shared with me his early experiences growing up in Barbados close to the beach where he was
exposed to the sharp class consciousness in this Caribbean island. He told me that when he left home in his early 20s, he was privileged to live on a boat and learned many vital lessons. Upon his arrival in Canada in 1982, the parish priest of the Anglician church that he attended was a sailor and he had opportunities to go sailing with him. Charles observed that he was the only Black person surrounded by mostly older White men.
In 2021, the CEO of Broad Reach Canada reached out to Charles regarding the possibility of making sailing accessible to youths from vulnerable and at-risk communities. He states,” My job is to provide access to kids who would not normally be in a position to gain these opportunities.” Charles told me that Steve Mason was recruited as a skipper and through his involvement Broad Reach Canada has expanded. Charles believes that accessibility should not be based on a price, and all youths, especially BIPOC, should be able to access the multiple benefits that sailing affords: relationship building, networking, connecting, belonging and development of life skills.
Ron is excited about the 25th Anniversary of Broad Reach Canada, which will be taking place on November 18th, 2023. He is pleased that the benefits of sailing are now available to youths from diverse backgrounds in order to help them fulfill their potential to be best in all areas of life.
any other aspect. Medical professionals are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity, honesty, and professionalism in their interactions with patients.
These are all expected, but what happens when this does not happen, and when you as a patient begin questioning the actions of your doctor?
This is the case with a young lady who reached out to us with a story so heinous, and disturbing, that while listening to her I myself got very emotional.
When you think about doctors, many of us think about them as indispensable members of society who contribute to the health, well-being, and advancement of medical science. Their roles extend far beyond treating illnesses. They have a commitment to act in the best interests of their patients and to provide care that maximizes their wellbeing. They promise to “do no harm” and to avoid actions that could potentially harm their patients. Finally, there is the commitment to maintain the highest standards of ethical conduct, honesty, and integrity in all interactions with patients and colleagues.
For the sake of privacy, we are going to call the young lady in the story M. In 2018, M was sexually abused by an Egyptian doctor at a Brampton Clinic. She reports that she was ill and required medical care from a specialist, but she was never referred to a specialist. Instead, she claims that she was held like a hostage for four months by this doctor and others in the clinic.
“I was very afraid to speak, or report to the police. I am a single mother, and they have the power to call the Children’s Aid Society to declare me mentally unstable to look after my kids,” M shares with a shaking voice.
“At this moment I am the only one speaking out and I am sure there are other female patients who have been sexually abused by this doctor. I am currently ill, and I need help to find other females who had this horrible experience. This doctor left town,
and now he is practicing medicine in the Niagara Region.
“Simone,” she continued. “I am reaching out to your newspaper hoping you can write my story, and this will inspire other victims to tell their experience. I discovered there are other doctors who will trick female patients to have sex with them by making them believe their condition can be helped by having sex. I want to share this with others, hoping other females can learn from my experience and will not become a victim. These doctors abuse their power and harm their patients.”
Now, when this was first brought to me, I told M that I had to be mindful of this story because these are pretty heavy accusations to place on an individual. It wasn’t until a couple weeks later that I was given all the proof I needed to assist M in warning women that they must be mindful.
The said doctor is Dr. Boutros Mikhail (51 years). On October 20th, 2022, Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) detectives assigned to the Sexual Assault Unit (SAU) received a report of a belated sexual assault involving a family physician in the City of Welland. Investigation had determined an alleged sexual assault occurred on October 12th, 2022, at a Family Medical Practice located at 188 East Main Street, in the City of Welland.
On February 3rd, 2023, Doctor Boutros Mikhail of Oakville, was arrested and charged with one count of sexual assault, contrary to section 271 of the Criminal Code of Canada. He has since been released on a Form 10 Undertaking and was scheduled to attend court on April 28th, 2023, at 102 East Main Street, in the City of Welland.
As this incident involves a physician, notification of his arrest has been made by detectives to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario.
The circumstances surrounding this incident have led detectives to suspect there may be additional complainants. Individuals and witnesses with further information are encouraged to contact the lead detective by dialing 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009504.
Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477.
M had this to share with readers, especially young women, “Just because they are doctors, it doesn’t mean that they won’t do anything wrong. Always seek out a second opinion, and if something doesn’t feel right during a visit to your doctor’s office, talk to someone about it.”
haps, so you go to a doctor who writes you a prescription for a painkiller. It’s powerful stuff, so you feel better. Then your body gets used to the dose, and you need more and more powerful stuff. You get it from the doctor, who is on a pharma plan that promotes and awards doctors who sell their drugs. Once enough folk are addicted, the government tells doctors to prescribe five pills at a time (they used to sell hundreds at a time). You need more meds, so you go to the black market.
Black market sellers do not sell pure stuff, but pills that have up to 55 different items within the pills. Most of these items are not good for you. In fact much of it is toxic. Your addiction’s cravings drive you to buy what you know is a dangerous product. Just need the fix. If this stuff has fentanyl in it, you’re probably screwed.
buyer and seller of illegal and legal drugs. Addict and normal user of medication often play doctor, prescribing doses to themselves. Overdoses are on a swift upswing everywhere. This is no longer an urban phenomenon, but a population buster, the only real equality we can experience. Old, young, rich, or poor; Black, White, Latino, Asian too. The equality we were promised by America, Canada and other governments across the globe can be found here, as to how we are treated by healthcare, the cartels and addiction. If you are a “customer” and purveyor of drugs these folks will supply you.
these vaccines, and there is nothing we can do about it except go to the hospital and beg for some medical procedure that could help. Like bandits, Big Pharma sidesteps legal responsibilities and profits to the tune of two trillion dollars. Nice if you can get it right. Within the medical-pharmaceutical field there is no justice, no equality, no fairness. just greed and profiteering (just like the grocery biz).
resolution to their unending health-mental situation.
Drugs, some created to ease pain, others to just make you feel fine for a time, allowing you to float in darkness of nothingness until their power declines and pain is divine and upon you once again.
How I hate drug dealers, both those who stand on corners selling a bag or two, or the well dressed salesperson of a pharmaceutical giant who represents a firm that creates death, and then promotes it as medicine. Addiction is what they are selling and promoting. How I hate those who take the lives of others in such a way. People do not intend upon becoming addicted, oh no! It just happens according to the corporate plan of a multitude of pharmaceutical firms that you know too well. The “Blue Pill” of erectile dysfunction fame has killed 4,190 men since 1998 in America (heart attacks). The maker of this drug also makes opioids that have killed: kids, teachers, workers, business folks and more. How does it work?
You have an accident at work per-
Those who are supposed to protect us have become a part of the domestic drug cartel. These doctors like the benefits given them by Big Pharma: vacations, cash, cottages etc. The health system is developed to assist pharma to dispense these drugs to those in need. Government trusts its business partners, so this plan continues indefinitely until enough bodies have piled up and the government cannot ignore death’s laying before it.
The system further complicates things through privacy protections. The addicted cannot be forced to get help. For people who just want a high, you cannot expect logic or objectivity to rule the day. The addicted that are rich get by, while the rest of humanity is screwed.
We all think about drug cartels as foreign entities that we don’t have to deal with, but domestic home-grown cartels exist and are flourishing in your neighbourhood, 145 doctors in Ontario, 2,809 in America became the Cartels pushers. These are only those caught and prosecuted. Like the unending flow of illegal migrants across America and Canada’s borders, drug pushers in the form of medical professionals and big business sales staff fulfil the needs of senior citizens and those injured.
Seniors are primary users of illicit drugs, be they elicit blue bills, or opioids. Where there is pain, there is a potential
Years ago a family doctor filled a prescription to my brother who had injured his back; 300 opioids at a time. 300 hundred! The doctor stopped prescribing these drugs only after my brother had received 3,500 pills. My brother, needing money, sold most of them to biker gangs for cash. What an absolutely crazy mess. The system allowed doctors to become big time drug deals, and my brother a reseller of narcotics.
Criminality in every way; the very system ignored the effects of these drugs, many of which were not fully investigated. Seems the FDA will approve anything so long as a big enough check arrives in their offices. Corporate propaganda and revenue assures the approval and sales of their products.
What about the patients, the users of these drugs? Many die or remain in bed comatose with brain injuries. Insurance does not pay out on such deaths or medical conditions so many families go bankrupt. A vicious cycle appears before us, showing us that greed will overcome most anything, and is protected by our governmental regulations. The little guy and gal are left to deal with their situations as best they can. If addicted, we know what that action will be. Seek out and consume drugs.
Big Pharma was protected legally when the pandemic happened. First thing legislatures across the planet did, protect the vaccine makers themselves from potential future legal actions. How many people died from the effects of Covid vaccines? What about the side effects of these vaccines in the long term? In North America over a million people are suffering from side effects of
Seniors are popping pills daily. Costs for med’s have skyrocketed like everything else. As you age, the injuries of the past come to painfully remind you that your body and mind are machines that break down.
Seems like the government and private healthcare organizations are limiting their healthcare staff, counting the costs, and managing the books. Healthcare is drifting in a sea of uncertainty while the private sector absorbs as much profit as it can. All in the name of those inflicted we are told, drugs for every situation, disease or painful moment.
Every time I think about the pharmaceutical industry, I think of a song heard in my youth. It goes like this, “I have drugs in my pocket and I don’t know what to do with them” (The Monks). Big Pharma knows what to do. Any existing drugs that can benefit an existing disease rebrand it and sell it as a solution to that illness. There are sales to be made, profit to be made. Governments take a long time to respond to patient and customer complaints. Lots of time to find excuses why the side effects are happening, protecting Big Pharma from governmental insight or possible legal actions.
The pandemic has brought Big Pharma into a partnership with governments and political parties. One partner serves the public while the other itself. How can we have laws and regulations initiated and established to protect the public from financial, medical and pharmaceutical propaganda, profiteering and undue manipulation when our governments are in league with pharmaceutical giants that legally and illegally usurp our elected officials power through undue influence and possible corruption.
All this while, the addict is looking for their next high, a source that hopefully will be safe from toxic additives.
simone@carib101.com
Strategically placed far up in the skies of Toronto is an enchanting rooftop hideaway situated atop W Toronto. It is a place where the downtown natives celebrate the end of the working day and arrival of the evening. As the sun sets, Skylight casts its spell on the city with a late-night scene that dazzles with alluring cocktails and Mediterraneaninspired raw bar and mezze. The indooroutdoor boho oasis overlooks Toronto’s iconic Bloor Street, bringing back to life the provocative and artistic spirit of the hippie revolution in Yorkville during the 60s.
On Sunday, August 6th, 2023, in honour of Toronto’s famed Toronto Caribbean Carnival, Skylight at W Hotel Toronto hosted its inaugural Soca Brunch & Dolce Den, an elevated feast with vibes, welcome rum punch, decadent entrées and unlimited desserts, all with a Caribbean twist. The hotel’s famed “Dolce Den” experience included live dessert stations featuring towering chocolate fountains and lavish curated in-house sweet treats.
Thankfully, the Toronto Caribbean
MICHAEL THOMASmichael@carib101.com
TC REPORTERIt has come to the attention of Toronto Caribbean Newspaper that The Universal Marcus Mosiah Garvey People’s Court of Jamaica has bought criminal charges against current Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Michael Holness of JLP (Aka Jamaica Labour Party), and Opposition Leader Mark Golding of PNP (Aka People’s National Party).
Here is what we know as of this moment.
Indictment number: EIE 3-3-2/2022 (MSO); the place to appear: The Universal Marcus Mosiah Garvey People’s Court of the Constitution and Rights – Central Command Authority – Disciplinary Committee (August 17th, 2023, Judgment Yard/ August Town and August 20th, 2023, Irie FM Courtyard/Ocho Rios).
The charges which have been brought against this regime are numerous and they range from false independence claims, cancellations of elections, and The Denial of Political Self-Determination Rights/Process of The Jamaican People; all leading up to the big one -Crimes Against Humanity (CAH).
Some charges go back as far as the 1960’s and they involve crimes against The Rastafarian Movement of Jamaica (aka anti-Rastafarian Programs). Anti-Ras-
Newspaper was invited to indulge in the epitome of refined culinary experiences with Soca Brunch & Dolce Den’s exquisite luxury brunch. Nestled in an opulent setting, this gastronomic journey was designed to tantalize my senses and redefine my perception of brunch.
As I stepped into the elegant venue, I was greeted by an ambiance that seamlessly blended sophistication and comfort. Soft, natural lighting cast a warm glow, accentuating the intricate details of the decor – from plush upholstery to tastefully arranged floral centerpieces. The melodious strains of soca music fill the air, setting the perfect backdrop for my Caribbean culinary escapade.
My culinary adventure began with a curated selection of: Island greens, shaved vegetables, cilantro, ginger dressing cassava; carrot, onion, celery, egg, scotch bonnet dressing, black bean salad; chickpeas, peppers, onions, curry mint accompanied by: rice and peas, braised greens, and coconut bake.
The focal point of this extravagant feast was the main brunch entree, meticulously curated by world-class chefs. Imagine a symphony of colours and flavours: avocado, quinoa, mango, Caribbean salsa, tomato, onion, and cilantro offering a delicate balance of taste and texture to the Jerk Shrimp Bowl that i ordered.
I of course had to try the infamous Jerk Chicken & Waffles (jerk fried chicken, sweet potato waffle, pineapple aioli, Caribbean salsa), and Johann Keens
tafarian Programs; before 1962 and 1963 to present; the denial of cultural self-determination rights/process of the Jamaican people; as a crime of ethnic cleansing, and the list goes on.
The man behind the mission to bring about Nuremberg 2 in Jamaica said in his synopsis of the situation that ever since the Jamaican Independence of August 1962, every generation of the ordinary Black majority African slave descended from the Jamaican.
People have witnessed first-hand that no matter what action the newly independent government of Jamaica (GoJ) takes in the name of the Jamaican people on behalf of the Jamaican people: the standard of living, quality of life, and security of the Jamaican people has drastically gone way down causing the ordinary Black majority African slave descended Jamaican People to cry out That, quote: “Jamaica did better off under the British!”
With all that has been brought to light in March of 2022, the Jamaican Prime Minister seems to be trying to distance himself from his English handlers, here are his statements on the island’s Independence Colonial rule, “We’re moving on and we intend to attain in short order to fulfil our true ambitions as an independent, developed and prosperous country.”
If, and as someone who has never been to Jamaica, I must say if what I read in this report is all true, then Jamaicans have serious work to do in terms of eradicating the evil that they are facing presently if real and meaningful progress is to be realized.
Our source went on to point out that even when Jamaica becomes independent of the British it will be just a
Douglas (Skylight’s General Manager), very graciously brought over a breakfast patty, which was a delightful, braised oxtail, over easy egg, cheddar cheese, pickled shallots, lettuce, and tomato.
Did I mention our libation selection? They were equally as luxurious, with a deliciously concocted rum punch as well as an extensive collection of Champagne and sparkling wines, meticulously chosen to elevate my brunch experience. They had handcrafted cocktails, infused with rare spirits and fresh botanicals, mixed to perfection adding an air of effervescent sophistication.
The day would not have been complete without a visit to Pastry Chef, Don Perera, who curated an opulent brunch journey with an artful selection of hand-crafted desserts that were as visually stunning as they were delectable. From intricately plated mini cakes (island pavlova, assorted choux pastries, hazelnut bars, pineapple upside down cake, macarons, Caribbean cornmeal cake, and ruby chocolate sweet potato fudge), to Verrines a flambeed banana with amaretto, Caribbean rice cups, and coconut mango tiramisu parfaits, each sweet creation was a testament to the culinary expertise that defined my luxury brunch.
I want to thank the Executive Chef Michael Hawryluk, B&F Operation Manager Abhijeet Mane, and of course the General Manager Johann Keens Douglas for sharing their space with us, and creating a beautiful brunch experience.
show. Real independence must come by putting the British, as well as all the puppets who serve them and their thieving interest, out of the island permanently.
“This is 1962 all over again,” our source said. “The ordinary Black majority Jamaican people ought to be very vigilant against such a reality because when this was done in August 1962, within eight months of seizing political power in Jamaica the first major action of the independent Government of Jamaica was to ethnically cleanse the native Black Rastafarian minority from the newly independent Jamaican society!”
Our source warned that this time around it would not just be the Rastafarians that will be killed. “If the British Crown and the GoJ are successful this time around, it will be those who want to be independent of the British Crown and those who want to be independent of the Twin-Headed PNP-JLP-GoJ Monster who will be ethnically cleansed from the society of the new Jamaican Republic.”
Andrew Holness, according to our source is the leader of the ruling government as well as the opposition, and his Moving On scheme is just a guise to trick Jamaicans as usual, after all, he has been quoted as calling them “FOOL FOOL.”
In short, when the British Crown in 1962 pulled down its flag and departed Jamaica, making Jamaica “independent” of the British Crown/Empire, there should be no British Crown in Jamaica in 2022 that Jamaicans should be ‘moving on’ from. That involves constitutional amendment and/or referendum to make it happen- unless of course, the Jamaican Independence of 1962 was a fraud.
Jamaica is falling fast, and Jamaicans are furiousW. GIFFORDJONES MD DIANA GIFFORD-JONES TC HEALTH REPORTER
If having recurring headaches, most people go see a doctor. Or, for severe chest pain, it’s a rush to the emergency room, but when people are constantly rubbing their eyes, there’s no trigger of alarm. It’s just itchy eyes! Dr. Clara Chan, Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Toronto, says it could be a problem called dry eye syndrome. Neither lethal nor curable, sufferers simply need to keep the annoyance under control.
Dr. Chan reports the sooner you see a doctor and start treatment the better the result. It’s surprising that an estimated 1 in 5 adults have personal experi-
ence with dry eye syndrome.
Dry eye syndrome is more common in women, but aging is a cause in both sexes. People may notice the condition more acutely when flying, due to dryness of the cabin air. Excessive screen time can induce irritation too, including blockage of tear ducts caused by rubbing the eyes. Long periods of looking up at computer screens and not blinking decrease lubrication of the eyes. Add to this list diabetes and thyroid disease. The result is too much salt in the eyes which triggers chronic inflammation. In time, there will be damage to the structures of the eye. What about medication? Antidepressants and antihistamines can cause dry eyes. Indoor air can be dry, causing itchy eyes. When outdoors, it’s advisable to wear sunglasses and avoid smoky conditions. If wearing contact lenses, follow the advice about hygienic care.
A visit for professional help might involve the quick fix of removing a foreign particle from the eye, or if there’s an infection, antibiotics will be prescribed.
What’s the scenario in most cases? Dr. Clara Chan cautions that there is no cookie-cutter recipe that works for every patient. Rather, patient counselling and trying different treatment options help to identify the right treatment.
The simple measure of using a humidifier is a good start. Wearing protective eyewear on cold, or windy days will help. A variety of lubricating eyedrops are available over the counter to provide speedy relief of symptoms, but if there are recurring symptoms despite these measures, see your doctor.
You may need anti-inflammatory eye-drops such as those that contain cyclosporine. Thermal or laser light therapy for your eyelids may be another option. According to a survey conducted in Canada by Dr. Chan, 20% of respondents were dealing with moderate dry eye disease and 70% had severe problems. She calculated the economic burden of disease to be $24,300 per person. That includes the costs faced by the patient for treatment and the costs to businesses and society
amounting from unemployment, days of work missed, and low productivity at work.
After reading this, are your eyes itchy? Everyone should have regular eye exams, whether to treat a mild case of dry eye syndrome, or to take advantage of standard tests by ophthalmologists to diagnose more serious problems.
This is a message that bears repeating. Sore eyes are not lethal, but doctors see lives lost every year due to patients who delay getting medical attention. Here’s the important advice: never ignore rectal bleeding or blood in the urine, a breast lump, a persistent cough, or abnormal vaginal bleeding.
Don’t fall into another potential trap. Remember, it’s not the doctor who sets the date for an appointment. If you have one of the above symptoms, never accept a delayed appointment. Why? Because it may cost you your life! Tell the scheduler what the problem is and that there is a need for urgency. If no result, try your utmost to find another doctor.
alarming attack on vital anti-racism work within the province of Ontario, that has erupted in the face of the tragic loss of former TDSB principal who attended an equity training session in 2021.
cerns and demonstrate their unwavering commitment to anti-racism work in Ontario.”
a rallying point for right-wing opponents to dismantle the necessary and imperative anti-racism work.”
There was not much time for planning and preparation for the press conference held on Wednesday, August 2nd, 2023, at Queen’s Park. In an email to community members by Shannon Liverpool (Communications Specialist, Project Manager of Parents of Black Children - PoBC) she outlines the purpose of the conference. “The time for action is now. Let us come together as a community to safeguard the progress we have made and strive for an equitable, inclusive and diverse system in Ontario. Your participation matters, and together we can make it happen.”
The press release issued on Monday, July 31st, 2023, mentioned clearly the intended purpose. It was to address the
There has been mainstream media coverage of the untimely and unfortunate death of Richard Bilkszto with many of them linking it to the aftermath of the diversity training he attended in April and May 2021. It was presented by Kike KojoThompson, principal consultant of KOJO Institute. The overall collective vision from the emergency Zoom meeting on Thursday, July 27th, 2023, was that the Black community had to respond decisively not just to show support for Kojo-Thompson, but to send a clear message that equity training is truly vital.
The Call to Action that was issued states, “We, the Black communities of Ontario are united as we address the concerning attack on anti-racism work in our province. We demand that this essential work must not be allowed to be halted or stalled under any circumstances; our communities have suffered for far too long. We demand that politicians take immediate and concrete steps to address our con -
There were approximately 100 individuals in attendance at the press conference. Many of them stood behind the various speakers who took turns to address the media that was present. There were representatives from the following organizations: Advocacy Peel, ANCHOR, Black Community Coalition, Black Girls Ink, Black Voices, Centre for Integrative Anti-Racism Studies (CIARS), Delta Family Resource Centre, Midaynta Community Services, Network for the Advancement of Black Communities (NABC), Ontario National Alliance of Black School Educators (ONABSE), Peel Black Collective, PoBC, Parents against Racism Simcoe (PARS), Policing Free Schools, ResQ Youth International, We Rise, Women’s Health in Women’s Hands and HM Youth Foundation.
Idris Orughu, founder of Advocacy Peel, believes that the former principal’s death has been wrongly connected to diversity training. He states, “There is an active campaign to villainize and undermine anti-racism work in this province. It is clear to us that his death has been used as
Deborah Buchanan-Walford, President of the ONABSE, mentioned that Kojo-Thompson has received online threats and harassment because of her anti-racism work. She states, “We are committed to ensuring that no Black woman, or person feels unprotected or unsupported, or is scapegoated.”
Charline Grant, co-founder of PoBC, states that fear is a normal part of the life of Black students, children and educators. “We are not going to stand back and allow our children to be damaged.” She states there are 80 Black teachers on leave because of racist attacks.
Grace Lee, spokesperson for the Ontario Minister of Education, spoke out, “Anti-racism and anti-discrimination training will continue.” She notes, “Since day one, we have taken decisive action to counter all forms of discrimination and hate in Ontario schools. We will continue this important work to remove barriers that hold back too many children from reaching their potential.”
Black communities of Ontario unite to address the concerning attack on anti-racism work in our province
megan@carib101.com
On a radiant, sun-soaked day, Toronto Jerkfest extended a warm invitation, beckoning attendees with a rich sensory embrace. From the very first step, the tantalizing aroma of drum-smoked meats wafted in the air, weaving an aromatic tapestry that heralded a promise of culinary adventures. This inviting scent was amplified by the sight of attendees swathed in vibrant Jamaican colors—a powerful, living testament to the pride and unity of the Caribbean community in Toronto.
Upon entering, my senses were greeted by jerk burgers, a modern twist on the Jamaican classic. While these contemporary creations appealed to many, my culinary heart, seasoned by years of gastro -
nomic experiences, yearned for traditional jerk preparations that would transport one straight back to the sunlit streets of the island of Jamaica.
In the heart of the festival, stalls bustled with activity. Vendors exchanged friendly banter with patrons, discussing the methods of their recipes and the history behind their dishes. The fusion of flavours, from spicy to sweet, was a testament to the rich culinary tapestry that the Caribbean offers.
Established powerhouses like:
Willie’s Jerk, The Art of Catering, Caribbean Flavah, Bonnicks, and Mandy’s Kitchen showcased their expertise, drawing sizable, eager crowds. However, it was the audacity of Da House of Jerk that truly captured my attention. The very idea of a kangaroo prepared with jerk techniques was novel. Chef John’s dedication, evident in his two-day marination process, showcased that the art of jerk isn’t just about the seasoning, but the love and patience infused during the preparation. Each bite of the kangaroo, which reminded me of liver, tenderly accompanied by okra, pumpkin, and callaloo, was a testimony to the depth and versatil-
ity of jerk as a culinary art form. However, amidst these gustatory marvels, a reflective thought persisted. The evident underrepresentation of newer talents, especially from Toronto’s lesserknown culinary havens, was noticeable. Festivals like Jerkfest serve as platforms, and it’s essential they champion not just the established giants but also the budding stars. Such events should be inclusive, accommodating fresh talents who might redefine the jerk landscape in the coming years. I find that when corporations place their hands in these events, the overall cost for the new vendors may be too high for them to justify the cost of participating.
Jerkfest wasn’t just about the food. Music, the very heartbeat of the Caribbean, resonated powerfully across the festival grounds. Upcoming artist, Sillla’s “She Bod” became more than just a song; it evolved into an anthem that reverberated with shared energy. Luciano’s soulful melodies reminded everyone of the timelessness of Caribbean rhythms, uniting attendees across generations. Destra, with her electrifying soca beats, defied the myth of Jamaicans’ indifference to soca,
igniting the crowd with fervor. And Cham? His dynamism and unparalleled stage presence were the crescendo, culminating the musical journey on an unforgettable note. Beyond the melody and flavor, Jerkfest was a living narrative. It unfolded tales of shared heritage, of memories transported across oceans, and of the ties that bind the Caribbean community in Toronto. The echoing laughter of children, the sight of families sprawled on the grass sharing meals, and long-lost friends reconnecting painted a vivid picture of community spirit. In cosmopolitan cities like Toronto, events like Jerkfest play a pivotal role. They serve as reminders of cultural roots, offering a space where traditions are not just remembered but celebrated. As the sun set, casting the grounds in a golden embrace, there were more than just memories of the day. There was anticipation, a shared hope for the future editions of Toronto Jerkfest. An unspoken promise lingered, suggesting that this festival will evolve, grow, and yet always stay true to its core. May it remain a beacon of Caribbean pride, gastronomy, and unity, today and always.
CityTV News. Kevin Carrington of the CBC Radio served as MC for the entire event.
Ontario Premier, Doug Ford told the crowd, “Everybody is welcome. The world is watching Toronto now. The world is here, celebrating the allure, the food, the dance and of course, the great costumes.”
The 56th annual Toronto Caribbean Carnival was the culmination of weeks of preparation, organization and execution that featured 12 competitive bands. These bands showed tremendous visual creativity, aural ingenuity and sensual desirability that enthralled onlookers, spectators and guests from all over the world. It was estimated that over a million people were in attendance. The theme of this year’s festival was, “Diversity Live Here!”
The opening ceremony featured politicians from federal, provincial and municipal levels as well as elders from the Black community. The day’s event was broadcasted live by CP24 News which was hosted by Nathan Downer and Jesse Smith of
City councilor Michael Thompson who has been regularly attending the festival for the past few years reminded the crowd of the historical roots. He states, “The purpose of this Caribbean festival event is to ensure that we celebrate our Caribbean culture, our creativity and our ingenuity. There is so much more to us, to our community and culture, and what we have to do, we marry that to the diversity of this great city of Toronto.” He elaborates further, “This event signifies a coming of age for all of us. When we were unshaved from the vestiges of slavery. So, we came out. The reason why you see these scantily clothed individuals is to express our freedom, and I want you to remember that. This is an opportunity for us to work together to build a better place.”
Maurice Bygrave, one of the
founders of the festival in 1967 recalled the early days, “Everybody was fighting for rights and freedom.” He commented on the fact that the festival has grown from a 7-day festival to a month-long one generating over $500 million to the coffers of the city. He notes, “It was a bit of a sweat for us - we didn’t have a lot of money, but we were determined.”
The starting time was 8:00 am for North America’s largest carnival festival proceeding from the Grand Parade area at Exhibition Place westward toward Dowling Avenue then eastward along Lake Shore Boulevard to where they started. The order of the bands and their themes are shown below:
1. Toronto Revellers - It’s Showtime
2. Tribal Knights - Once Upon A Time
3. Saldenah Carnival - Unmasked
4. Carnival Nationz - Let’s Go Around the World in 1000 Day
5. Sublime Mas - Desires
6. E.P.I.C Carnival - Passion
7. SugaCayne - I Wanna Dance with Somebody
8. Fantazia Carnival - Odds N’ Oddities
9. Costume Creators - Cultural Art
10. Lavwaymas - Then & Now
11. Freedom Mas Band - Carnival is Women
12. LUX Carnival - Legend of Diamonds
On Sunday, August 7th, 2023, the official results were announced by the Festival Management Committee; Carnival Nationz was the top band followed by: Toronto Revellers, Saldenah Mas-K-Club, Tribal Knights, Sublime Canada, E.P.I.C Carnival, SugaCayne, Fantazia, Freedom Mas Band, Costume Creators and LUX Carnival.
There were many challenges that continue to impact the Grande Parade. The issue of storming is one that has been particularly tough for the FMC to solve. Non-paying spectators tore down many of the barriers that separate the masqueraders from the spectators. Many of the acts of vandalism have gone viral. The long delay between bands, blockage of views by spectators who paid $40 entry fee and then having two entry points for the bands were other complaints.
Human Rights Commission’s Right to Read’s inquiry report being released without consulting them.
The 83,000 strong Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario (ETFO) has been consistently advocating and fighting for an equitable, inclusive and fair public education. In the last few months, they have issued several media releases, which have brought issues to the public attention in what they believe is the Ford government’s relentless attack on public education. On Monday, August 3rd, 2023, they released a press release in conjunction with the 42,000 strong On-
ETFO and OECTA are concerned that despite statements by Ontario Minister of Education, Stephen Lecce regarding the importance of maintaining stability in the public education system, its actions have had the opposite effects. The press release notes, “This government continues to introduce sweeping changes without providing the necessary time and resources for proper implementation. These changes will violate collective agreements when the new requirements mandated through policy memorandum are implemented, ignoring the collective bargaining rights of the professionals who care for and teach students across Ontario.”
Both unions are currently engaged in bargaining with the Ontario government as their old contracts have expired. They are concerned that the introduction of this memorandum could potentially jeopardize the current negotiations. The press release states, “By arbitrarily introducing this new policy, the government has once again circumvented the collective bargaining process rather than engaging in meaningful discus-
sions and good faith bargaining with the professionals who know and understand the students in their care,” Both unions are adamant in their belief that the Ontario government and Minister Lecce by their actions have shown that they do not have the best interests of students in mind as the new school year approaches. The press release outlines explicitly, “If they were, they would value the professionalism of all educators, respect collective bargaining rights, and ensure that adequate resources and time are available to all students and educators. The chronic underfunding of public education from this government continues to short-change students. Implementing a screener for early reading without providing the necessary resources, training, and other support will leave vulnerable students behind and will do nothing to truly address the issue of early literacy.”
The joint press release concludes, “The government must keep these issues where they belong, at the bargaining table. We once again call on the Ford Conservative government to drop the ‘spin’ and instead work collaboratively and meaningfully with frontline educators to make the real, sustained investments in publicly funded edu-
cation needed, so that all students have the learning environment they deserve.”
On Wednesday, August 8th, 2023, ETFO filed an unfair labour practice complaint against the Ford government for its refusal to bargain in good faith. ETFO President, Karen Brown mentioned in the press release on Thursday, August 9th, 2023 “Rather than working with us collaboratively, rather than respecting the bargaining process, the government reverted to its true form and imposed a policy that violates both our members’ collective agreement rights and labour law in this province.”
ETFO contends that releasing PPM 168 while central bargaining is in session, is an affront to the integrity of the negotiation process. President Brown notes, “The arrogance of this government to violate the statutory freeze period and restrict ETFO members’ exercise of professional judgment while we are actively negotiating at the table has pushed us to take this action. All parties are required by law to bargain in good faith. By imposing this new policy, the Ford government has determined yet again that it is above the law.”
Details of ETFO’s unfair labour practice complaint can be seen at www.etfo.ca
steven@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
Now Haitians begin their new year with a hope that the coming year will be better than the last. Of course Mother Nature presents Haiti with the horrors of earthquakes and hurricanes, along with draughts and the spread of disease. Large portions of the island remain uninhabitable, rubble lying where it had fallen long ago.
Lacking what is truly essential breeds fatalism, as promises from the world fall upon the people who see no real solutions to their daily situation of: hunger, lack of all things essential, unemployment and any foreseeable good future.
Fatalism breeds fear, hate, violence, greed and criminality. A battle for territory has developed among the 200 criminal gangs of Haiti. Innocents die, drug addiction is a major problem, and no one in the national government has a solution, or the ability to make the people’s lives better.
The world offered a solution, a cyclical historical pathway, where: Kenyan, French, EU and African nations would send troops to Haiti to bring about order and peace; these ideas coming from nations
who are unable to handle their own national problems adequately. What is seen as a viable solution will be seen as the re-colonization of the island. The gangs will not go away, and their strategists (they have them) will realize that they can carry on their business, and also become saviours of the people by starting a guerrilla war with those who just arrived to save Haiti.
Impressions are everything to many people. Outside of a complete takeover of the government, what can the special force do to bring about peace? Only war and death will result in this situation. It is said that over half of all politicians in Haiti are in the pockets of either the leading seven families of Haiti, or the gangland thugs. Any money coming into Haiti will disappear soon enough. Haitian politicians and their bureaucrats have turned corruption into an art form.
Foreign Intervention will only result in giving the criminal world authenticity before the eyes of many people, leading to death and further destruction of the Island.
Say no to the UN, EU, and Trans-African Alliance. So what to do then?
Haiti is located in the Caribbean, whose many neighbours can offer police, troops, security funding, infrastructure development, socio-educational and political proficiency to work towards a peaceful solution. Only the Caribbean can end Haiti’s nightmare. Only Caribbean nationals can fight and end Haiti’s criminal enterprises.
Haiti has never been a true democracy, so present day democracies like: Barbados, Bahamas’, Dominican Republic, Jamaica show the way. They have the wealth and abilities to accomplish true significant change. The combined force of the Caribbean can acquire the wealth needed to rebuild Haiti and themselves.
The Caribbean can rebuild Haiti; bring it into partnership with the Caribbean’s various organizations. Haiti can become a Caribbean ideal, the island that was brought back from the brink through partnership, sacrifice and direct investment by its neighbours and family, not foreigners with a selfish agenda!
one is free, one chooses one’s rhythm. That an individual/people aren’t forced to move according to another’s demands?”
British Empire. It is also a celebration of the power and potential of the people of African descent.
There was a phenomenal turnout on July 31st, 2023, of over 1,000 individuals to celebrate the Tenth Annual Freedom Train Ride. It started at 10:30 pm inside Union Station where there were musical performances featuring: drummers, brass music and greetings from Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) and officials of the City of Toronto. The Vericity Choir greeted patrons with traditional freedom songs as many others danced rhythmically to the sound of the African drums, as the drummers led the procession. The website for BBC posed the question, “What do drummers and drumbeats signify?” The answer, “That when
In this tenth year of the ride, which was started by Itah Sadu of Blackhurst Cultural Centre (formerly known as A Different Booklist Cultural Centre) and involved the collaboration of long-time partner, the TTC. The aim of the ride is to provide actual underground experience via its subway system representing the underground railroad journey. This is a very emotional song-filled train ride, probably Canada’s largest of its kind, and is open to all Canadians for the price of a token.
The Freedom Train Ride coincides with the celebration of August 1st, recognized as a federal holiday by the Canadian government since 1998 thanks to the work of the Honourable Jean Augustine in Ottawa. Itah notes further, “The Emancipation Day Underground Freedom Train is symbolic of the role of the Underground Railroad within Canada’s history. This train ride is a recognition of the historic date of Emancipation on August 1st, when slavery was abolished in the
The theme of this year’s Freedom Train Ride was, “Planting Seeds Beyond Emancipation.” During this 2023 season of Emancipation, it is important to give thanks to Mother Earth for nurturing us, and to recognize the ancestors who came before and prepared fertile ground. Before and after the train ride, volunteers who were present handed out packages of organic seeds to the riders.
Itah Sadu addressed the riders, “We are here to honour the true freedom fighters, our ancestors who resisted enslavement and planted the seeds for our freedom and futures.” She elaborates, “We are in an imaginative time in an imaginative world, and we have the subway. The subway, the last time I checked, runs underground. So, we use the power of that word to speak to a historical moment.”
Itah draws on the connection between Emancipation and the Toronto Carib -
bean Carnival. She notes, “Carnival is the most public expression of emancipation. We were thinking, how do we convey this awareness that Emancipation is connected to the annual Carnival? How do we convey the idea to Canadians about a significant milestone in our history, a milestone that marked the end of the enslavement period [in the former British Empire]?”
Olivia Chow, Mayor of Toronto told the crowd, “Freedom is incomplete in Canada. We need freedom from: poverty, oppression, hunger, anti-Black racism and systemic racism.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was on the Freedom Train Ride when it left Union Station. He mentioned that he was deeply honoured to travel along the ride. He states, “It is a moment to reflect and to celebrate. A moment to reflect on all those who came before, all those who fought for freedom and all those who continue to inspire us every day to do more to stand up, to be better allies.”
The man that stood before me was a towering behemoth, a masterpiece of muscle and strength. His physique was a symphony of power, each sinew and tendon purposefully etched beneath his skin. Every movement radiated an aura of raw, imposing energy, his muscles rippled and flexed with every gesture.
His biceps bulged, seemingly ready to burst through the confines of reality itself. Shoulders like mountains sloped down into a rugged back that resembled a landscape sculpted by a divine hand. His legs were pillars of strength, massive thighs that seemed capable of launching him into action with explosive force. His calves were sculpted and defined, showcasing a dedication to complete physical mastery. With every step, the ground seemed to tremble, as if struggling to bear the weight of his commanding presence.
Despite his immense size, there was a graceful fluidity to his movements, an elegant dance of power that belied the brute force he possessed. His face, chiseled and strong, was a reflection of his discipline and determination. A strong jawline framed piercing eyes that exudes both intensity and confidence.
In every sense, he was a colossal embodiment of vigor and might, a living testament to the limitless potential of the human body pushed to its utmost limits. Imagine what his opponents think every time one of them has to face him in the ring.
I first met our Classic Man in the summer of 2022. I was attending my first United Boxing Promotions fight, and he was there supporting his fellow fighters, and promoting his next fight. Even though upon sight, he is a very scary man, his warm personality put me at ease, and I got to learn more about this heavyweight champion.
With a record of 8-0 (all TKO), Ricardo Brown is a boxer brimming with potential. They call him ‘Big 12’ for a reason; he is a massive heavyweight with knock-out power that is undeniable. Born and raised in Manchester, Mandeville, Big 12 is the pride of Jamaica, and continues to represent his island in the ring. I had a chance to reason with Big 12, and he shared with me his rise to greatness.
“My earlier years were spent in Spanish Town, because that is where my mom lived. She had left me with my stepdad in Mandeville, but I wanted to live with my mom, so I moved there when I was around 13, 14 years old.
Things were rough, trust me it was not easy at all. We were living hand to mouth to survive. I remember using a wood fire stove to cook my food, and even from a very young age I was always working. I would work with my stepdad doing construction work. For a long time, life was just work.”
Big 12 recalls a time in his life when partying, and having fun became a huge part of his life.
“This started around 15 years old. I would have my own dances. I got the name Big 12 because I was 12 years old when I went to my first party. The man that I was parring with LOD, announced that he had brought a 12-year-old. ‘If any girl thinks they’re bad, come and try sample.’ I tell you it was something else. I was a big kid, even at 12 years old. I would do a little bit of everything, cooking, holding dances, anything to stay away from gun life. It was easy to get caught up in that type of life because of where I lived, but I did my best to stay safe.”
Big 12 actually worked with Noel Harper’s Legendary Killamanjaro sound, a leading light in the dancehall world. The sound was started by Papa Jaro in 1969 and its name is derived from Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, and throughout their history they have constantly scaled great heights both in Jamaica and worldwide. It was during one of Killaminjaro’s sets that Big 12 was introduced to the world of boxing.
“We were setting up the sound at an event in Halfway Tree, and I saw them putting up a boxing ring. I watched the fight, and I was like, I can do that. My friends were encouraging me to, but I left it alone.
Two years later it became more of a reality to me. I used to run back and forth from work; I wasn’t thinking about boxing, but boxing was obviously thinking about me. One day when I got home, someone knocked at my
gate. My mom asked if someone was coming to see me. She then told me that an English man was outside to see me. When I went out there, this man started to talk to me about boxing. He asked me to show him my stance. Somehow, he saw something in me, and decided to take me under his wing. I called him Uncle. I never learned his name. He started working with me after that. I would run an hour and a half to train with him. I would do this after work. He trained me for a year, and then he wanted to test me out. My other coach was Wayne Sharpe, and they both ended up training me.
My first fight was in 2016 with one of the best heavyweight fighters at the time, Alex and I knocked the man out cold. I never looked back.
I came to Canada in 2019 to train for the Panam Games. I came and only trained for a month. I won a silver medal there. We were supposed to have an Olympic qualifier, but because of the pandemic, we couldn’t do the qualifier, so I got drafted to go to the Olympics.
The Olympics was a great experience, but it was hectic with all of the requirements due to the pandemic. I ended up dropping out in the first round. I lost by decision. I came back to Canada, and then I went back to training.
I also went to the World Games. It was a good show for me. My first fight was against the best in the world. In that tournament I damaged him so bad, that he told my coach that he hadn’t fought a man who hit so hard.
Tyler had come to Jamaica and put on a show, and he brought down two heavyweights to fight. I walked up to Tyler and said, ‘Tyler I want to fight those guys.’ ‘NO young man,’ he said. ‘You are not ready!’ I told him that I was ready, and from then, I was on his radar. After that I went pro and started fighting with United Promotions.”
For those who have not had a chance to see this formidable man fight, we are less than a month away from another incredible night of live professional boxing. On September 9th, 2023, at the beautiful Pickering Casino Resort, fight fans will have the chance to witness some of the best fighters in Canada. The night will include:
• Brampton’s champion Sukhdeep Singh (15-0, 6 KO)
• Jamaica’s former Middleweight Champion Kemahl Russell (14-1, 12 KO)
• Melinda Watpool (3-0, 2 KO)
• Michael Cabato (2-0-1, 1K0)
• Ricardo “Big 12” Brown (8-0, 8 KO)
We spoke a little about his upcoming fight, and his mentality going into it.
“This is going to be a good fight; from what I have seen, this guy is a good fighter. He is a big guy, but I don’t know if he can stand the strength. I am not going into this fight with an aggressive mentality. I am cool and calm. I am just going to relax and have fun. Fight fans, come and enjoy yourself. When the 12 is out it is always an enjoyable experience.”
Having witnessed the trajectory of ‘Big 12’ Brown’s career from a novice to elite national representative and medalist, I am excited about his professional future in the boxing world. I truly believe he has all that it takes to be a future world heavyweight champion and represent the island of Jamaica like only he can.
Big up yourself Big 12!
Written by Simone J. Smith Toronto Caribbean News12”
Are you new to the area and looking for a local dentist to take care of your oral health? Follow these steps to make an informed choice.
1. Ask for recommendations. Ask friends, family, colleagues and acquaintances if they can recommend a place with a good reputation. Your previous dental clinic may also be able to provide a referral.
2. Consider the practicality. Make sure the clinic you choose is conveniently located and that its operating hours align with your schedule. You should also find out how the clinic handles emergencies.
3. Make a phone call. Call the clinic you’re interested in to see if they’re accepting new clients. If you have children, check whether the clinic handles pediatric dental care, so your entire family can visit the same facility.
4. Visit the clinic. Pay a visit to the dental clinic to get a feel for the place. Are the premises clean? Does it have a good atmosphere? Chat with the receptionist to gauge the team’s courtesy. If possible, ask to meet with the dentist to see if you feel comfortable around them.
Finally, listen to your gut. Choosing a dentist is a personal decision, so you should feel confident in your choice.
Mesotherapy is a medical technique that can correct skin imperfections and several other pathologies. Here’s an overview of the treatment and its benefits.
How a session takes place
The treatment doesn’t require any special preparation. During the procedure, small quantities of medication are injected directly under the skin to target the affected areas. The injections are given by hand using a fine needle or a specially designed gun.
The needles may be slightly painful and feel like insect bites. The length of the procedure depends on how many injections must be performed. Depending on the desired effects, several sessions may be necessary. In all cases, there’s little to no recovery time, so you can quickly get back to your daily activities.
Mesotherapy has many benefits. A variety of results can be achieved depending on what’s injected under the skin, such as hyaluronic acid, vitamins, or enzymes. Among other things, it reduces signs of aging by minimizing the appearance of fine lines and firming the skin. It also gets rid of cellulite by “melting” the fat that causes it. Here are some other examples of what mesotherapy can treat:
• Osteoarthritis
• Hair loss
• Tinnitus
• Back and neck pain
• Sprains
• Rheumatism
• Venous insufficiency
Do you want to learn more about mesotherapy and find out if this medical technique could be right for you? Contact a medical esthetic clinic offering this service and make an appointment for a consultation.
ing healthy drinks, is the best approach.
The American Heart Association recommends 3,400 milligrams (mg) of potassium per day for men, and 2,600 mg per day for women. A typical banana provides about 400 mg. A cup of orange juice offers about 500 mg. A serving of broccoli has about 450 mg. A large baked potato can pack in 950 mg!
take was associated with a significant 21% lower risk of stroke.”
Aristotle’s doctrine of the golden mean lauds the middle ground of two extremes: excess and deficiency, but not everyone follows this sage advice, and not all vitamins and minerals send clear signals of absence or excess. This week, we are going to take a look at potassium, the third most abundant mineral in the body.
People, animals, and plants all depend on potassium for essential functions. Depleted soil requires potassium to be replaced with fertilizer. Young animals lacking potassium will quickly die. In people, there’s danger in either too much, or too little potassium, but a healthy diet, includ-
Potassium is like fuel to the electrical systems in the body – mostly in muscle cells, but also: bones, the liver, and red blood cells. It helps operate nerve signals and muscle contractions. Potassium also helps manage fluid levels and stabilize blood pressure. A deficiency can lead to muscle cramps and irregular heartbeat. Low potassium levels, especially when combined with high sodium intake, elevate the risk of hypertension.
An extensive body of research has shown that a potassium-rich diet has big benefits.
Lowering the risk of stroke is one of them. An Italian analysis of cohort studies involving nearly 250,000 adults found, “A 1,640 mg per day higher potassium in-
The U.S. National Institute of Health reports higher potassium in the diet also reduces the incidence of kidney stones. “In a cohort of 45,619 men aged 40 to 75 years with no history of kidney stones, those with the highest potassium intakes (≥4,042 mg/day on average) had a 51% lower risk of kidney stones over four years of follow-up than those with the lowest intakes (≤2,895 mg/day).”
“Similarly, in over 90,000 women aged 34–59 who participated in the Nurses’ Health Study and had no history of kidney stones, those who consumed an average of over 4,099 mg of potassium per day had a 35% lower risk of kidney stones over a 12year follow-up period than those who averaged less than 2,407 mg of potassium per day.”
There is research suggesting that potassium supports bone health and helps lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
It sounds so good, but can you get too much of a good thing? People with
weak kidney function, or taking certain medications need to be careful and consult with their doctors.
Who else needs to be careful?
Aristotle could not have imagined the number of soft drinks consumed by today’s society. The average American drinks 45 gallons (170 litres) of pop each year. Even at the average, that’s excessive amounts of glucose, fructose and caffeine robbing the body of potassium. There’s an established connection between too much soda and potassium deficiency.
Patients don’t always confess their excesses of soda and few physicians take the time to ask. Doctors can diagnose a potassium deficiency from blood work, but it is more difficult to measure potassium in muscle and bone cells.
The best recommendation is a healthy dose of common sense. Eat a balanced diet that is high in potassium and cut out the sugary drinks. Another piece of advice from Aristotle, “Good habits formed at youth make all the difference.”
A healthy diet and exercise are essential to optimal health, but what about our mental health.? What are the optimal solutions for that?
Everyone’s mood fluctuates from time to time and this is normal. When those fluctuations turn into quick highs and long lows however, we can find ourselves feeling depressed and chronically stressed more often than not. This can have far reaching effects on the body and mind.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is “A state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.”
Although I believe this to be true, WHO left out one crucial factor; mental health is the proper production and circulation of hormones like: serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin, which are all associat-
ed with and responsible for mood balance.
So let’s talk hormones. Hormones are essential chemical messengers that help coordinate and regulate numerous physiological processes in the body. They play a vital role in maintaining balance and overall health, and any disruption in their production, specifically the ones we will talk about in this article, can lead to various mental disorders.
Serotonin is often referred to as the “feel-good” hormone and is crucial for stabilizing mood and promoting a sense of well-being. It also plays a role in regulating sleep, appetite, and cognitive functions. Low serotonin levels have been associated with conditions like depression and anxiety. Serotonin cannot be found in foods, but there are foods we can eat that will boost its production. This includes turkey, chicken, eggs, nuts, seeds and tofu. Complex carbohydrates like whole grains and legumes can also help increase serotonin levels. Supplements like 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) and herbs like St. John’s Wort are also helpful in supporting serotonin production.
Dopamine is associated with: pleasure, reward, motivation, and learning. It plays a significant role in experiencing: joy, feeling motivated, and achieving goals. Imbalances in dopamine levels can lead to mood disorders and addiction.
Dopamine is synthesized from the amino acid tyrosine, which can be ob-
tained from certain foods. It acts as a neurotransmitter and influences various brain functions.
Foods rich in tyrosine include: chicken, turkey, beef, eggs, almonds, avocados, and bananas. Additionally, foods high in antioxidants, like green leafy vegetables and berries, can help support dopamine receptors in the brain.
L-tyrosine is a common supplement used to support dopamine production. Herbs like Rhodiola Rosea, Ashwaghanda and Ginkgo Biloba are also very effective at supporting dopamine activity in the brain.
Endorphins are hormones produced by the body that act as natural painkillers and mood boosters. They are released during physical activities, stress, and even laughter, creating a sense of euphoria and well-being. Endorphins are primarily produced in response to stress or pain. When the body experiences discomfort, endorphins are released to reduce the perception of pain and create a sense of pleasure. Endorphins are not directly influenced by food intake, but engaging in physical activities like: exercise, dancing, and even laughter can trigger their release. While direct supplements for endorphins are not available, certain supplements like curcumin (from turmeric) and omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to an increased sense of well-being and may indirectly support endorphin activity.
Oxytocin is often called the “love
RACHEL MARY RILEYDrinking lots of water does help you to lose weight. When we drink less water, we don’t get the results we need in diverse areas in your body, and we get dehydrated. Overall water helps you to stay hydrated. Let’s dive into the benefits of drinking more water which helps
Drinking water can help burn calories and reduce hunger cravings. Replacing sugary drinks with water can also lower caloric and sugar intake, but drinking water alone is not enough for major weight loss (How Drinking More Water Can Help You Lose Weight, n.d.).
For a long time, drinking water has been thought to help with weight loss. In fact, 30–59% of US adults who try to lose weight increase their water intake. Many studies show that drinking more water may benefit weight loss and maintenance (How Drinking More Water Can Help You Lose Weight, n.d.).
Drinking water can make you burn
Drinking water increases the number of calories you burn, which is known as resting energy expenditure. In adults,
resting energy expenditure has been shown to increase by 24–30% within 10 minutes of drinking water. This lasts at least 60 minutes (How Drinking More Water Can Help You Lose Weight, n.d.).
Supporting this, one study of overweight and obese children found a 25% increase in resting energy expenditure after drinking cold water. A study of overweight women examined the effects of increasing water intake to over one liter (34 oz) per day. They found that over a 12-month period, this resulted in an extra two kg (4.4 lbs.) of weight loss (How Drinking More Water Can Help You Lose Weight, n.d.).
Drinking water before meals can reduce appetite.
Studies of older adults have shown that drinking water before each meal may increase weight loss by two kg (4.4 lbs.) over a 12-week period (How Drinking More Water Can Help You Lose Weight, n.d.).
In one study, middle-aged overweight and obese participants who drank water before each meal lost 44% more weight, compared to a group that did not drink more water. Another study also showed that drinking water before breakfast reduced the number of calories consumed during the meal by 13%. Although this may be very beneficial for middle-aged and older people, studies of younger individuals have not shown the same impressive reduction in calorie intake (How Drinking More Water Can Help You Lose Weight, n.d.).
hormone” or “bonding hormone.” It plays a significant role in: social bonding, trust, and emotional connections between individuals. Oxytocin production is not directly influenced by food, but activities that promote emotional connections and bonding, such as: hugging, cuddling, and spending time with loved ones, can trigger its release. This is why surrounding yourself with people that love and support you are so important. Although there are no oxytocin supplements on the market, mindfulness exercises like: deep breathing, yoga, and meditation are all factors in increased oxytocin levels
Other useful supplements that play a role in energy and the body’s ability to cope with stress are: Coq10, B complex (specifically B6 and B12), Vitamin D3 (very important), L-Theanine and Probiotics.
To sum it up, in my opinion, mental health is when the peace outweighs the chaos within. It’s having a toolbox of coping mechanisms for rainy days and enough emotional intelligence to stay calm and choose your battles wisely. The ability to do this lies in proper hormone production, which ties into supplements and food and most importantly, the healing work we have done on ourselves that helps us to release the things that burden us emotionally and mentally.
Always talk to a practitioner, or naturopathic doctor about proper supplement dosage and remember that you have the power to take your health into your own hands.
Does drinking more water help you to lose weight?
You have the power to take your health into your own hands
TRISHA SMITH
trishas@carib101.com
SAKRED SYNERGI
megan@carib101.com
In the vibrant tapestry of Orangeville’s dining scene, one name resonates with fervour: Chef Phil. I had the joyous pleasure of meeting him this past March, as I navigated the rich gastronomic landscape of the “Men Who Cook” fundraiser. Organized by the dedicated United Achievers’ Club in April, the event was a treasure trove of tantalizing culinary revelations, but it was Phil’s passionately authentic approach to food that wholly caught my attention.
You see, once upon a time, Chef Phil was the inspired mastermind behind Soulyve, a beloved eatery nestled in picturesque Orangeville, and if you’re acquainted with Orangeville, you’d agree that it’s a verdant jewel – a tranquil, rejuvenating reprieve from the frenetic hustle of urban life. The drive there, with every turn, is akin to a leisurely stroll in a serene, undisturbed garden. However, like many poignant stories punctuated by the unforeseen pandemic, Soulyve had to sorrowfully close its doors, but what the pandemic couldn’t extinguish was Phil’s indomitable spirit and deep-seated love for food.
Now, embracing change, Phil has embarked on a fresh culinary adventure as the resident chef at «The Good Spot,» a charismatic outdoor beer garden that pulsates with life and laughter every weekend. While most chefs find solace in a predictable set menu, Chef Phil thrives on the electrifying thrill of metamorphosis. Every weekend, like a painter facing a blank, eager canvas, he transforms the menu, letting his boundless culinary imagination run fervently wild.
Last weekend’s eclectic menu
was a vivid testament to this versatility. From the sumptuous maple-glazed salmon paired delicately with velvety Alfredo pasta to the heart-warming, soulful pulled pork tacos, the choices were diverse and tempting, but the pièce de résistance? The incredibly innovative jerk chicken poutine. Now, poutine, a Canadian classic, needs no introduction, but Phil’s take on it was nothing short of revolutionary.
Taking my first eager bite, the fries were as they should be – fresh, crisp, and enticingly hot. The cheese curds, perfectly melted, played a delightful, tantalizing game of hide and seek, squeaking jubilantly as I bit into them, but the spotlight, burning bright, was undeniably focused on the jerk chicken. It was a melodic symphony of flavours – moist, perfectly seasoned, with a spirited kick that wasn’t overwhelmingly spicy. Every bite, savoured slowly, was a joyous affirmation of Chef Phil’s unparalleled culinary prowess.
It wasn’t just me. Despite the unpredictable skies opening up and the rain attempting to dampen spirits, «The Good Spot» buzzed with infectious chatter and laughter. Patrons, huddled cozily under the canopied garden, revelled in the culinary spectacle. Chef Phil’s board of orders, much like the garden’s vibrant flora, was in full, radiant bloom.
Chef Phil’s inspiring story is one of unwavering resilience, creativity, and passion. While the pandemic might have closed one cherished chapter, he swiftly began penning a new one with even more zest and flavour. In a world where change is the only constant, it’s heart-warming to witness a chef not just adapt, but truly flourish, serving up plates full of inspiration and fond memories.
So, the next time you find yourself yearning for a transformative culinary journey, steer your way to Orangeville. Not just for its lush, breath-taking landscapes, but for the genuine promise of a meal at «The Good Spot» that’ll linger sweetly in your memories long after the last satisfying bite.
Opening up to someone about a painful event can be challenging for some, and people weaponizing that pain play a role in these situations.
For anyone familiar with Brooklyn Frost and Jay Cinco, you have more than likely heard about their most recent breakup. Although this is not the first time the former couple has broken
up, the most recent has continued to stir a lot of drama with accusations of domestic violence to cheating allegations. When scrolling through Twitter, I came across a clip of Frost saying comments to Cinco that weren’t very nice. In the clip, Frost told Cinco to be quiet and continuously taunted him about how his father has shown no interest in wanting to maintain a healthy father/son relationship with him. In the clip, Cinco is upset and tells Frost she hit below the belt with the comment. Frost showed no regard for Cinco’s feelings and continued to taunt him about his broken relationship with his father. Although the clip came from a video Frost posted to her channel called, “Being Disrespectful to Jay Cinco
for 24 Hours,” it still doesn’t make what she said to be okay. Frost is not the first person to make a video like this. However, some pranks often tend to cause more harm than good.
Whenever a social media couple goes through a messy breakup, viewers take this as an opportunity to view past videos for signs of red flags. That is what many did regarding this most recent breakup.
Although this was my first time watching the video, I couldn’t help but scroll to the comment section to read people’s thoughts after everything that had happened. Prank or not, many were sincerely disgusted by Frost’s mistreatment of Cinco and have expressed sympathy for him. The comment she made about Cinco’s broken relation-
ship with his father seemed to have caught the attention of many.
When I first saw the clip on Twitter, users were commenting on how it is wrong to weaponize someone’s pain against them. They also brought up why a lot of people, men especially, have issues opening up and sharing a vulnerable side out of fear someone will use it against them.
Many, myself included, were reminded of why we chose to be selective when sharing details on subjects we deem to be touchy. People should remember they are rubbing salt on an open wound when they weaponize another’s pain. So please don’t hurt someone with something they are traumatized by.
Contemporary art met traditional values in a beautiful display at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO). Three artists used photographs to capture the very essence of the intimacy of Africa in their lives, reflecting the influences they experienced. You witness the complexities of these feelings situated on the wall of the top floor of the AGO. Art is always intentional, and the way these feelings were portrayed had a meaning that weighed more than an ocean of emotion behind them. These artists bent time and brought the past into today so we could witness their lives up to this point.
signs and informational displays directed you right to the exhibit. Once you ascend the floors to arrive at the place of art, you find yourself thrust into a world of nostalgia, as much of the art surrounding the display were images and feelings that many of us in the diaspora could relate to. However, the gallery decided to re-imagine photography to tell stories of the past and connect them to the present.
In the room specifically arranged to display the talent of these artists, you are met with a comfortable setting and ample space to wander between the art to contemplate the meaning of each piece while simultaneously trying to figure out what could have been the inspiration behind the beauty of all of this. Reading the descriptions of the art provided answers, but also threw new questions into the room. The how and the why would
cross your mind if you took the time to consider what you were looking at.
To see and attempt to understand was a hypnotizing combination that glued you to the room, staring at a piece until your mind was overwhelmed and you moved on to the next item, all to find yourself at the beginning again, wondering about the how and the why.
The commonality shared between the three artists is the ability to create a desire to know more. Although there were three exits out of this exhibit, you were so entranced by the history being told that the doors may as well have been locked with no key.
Each artist showcased different skills and talents to tell their stories. Using old keepsakes reformatted for a new purpose created an image of past and present intertwining in which pain and love are still deeply felt, and inspiration bleeds heavily from those
wounds. Cultural materials were used to tell a story of feeling, thought and perception so precisely that it is easy to overlook the subtle differences in the pieces and miss the meaning entirely.
The last display took the images of previous leaders and, through the careful consideration of color and light manipulation in the photographs themselves, placed into perspective that only a little time has passed between yesterday and today. While each artist displayed different themes and emotions, the way they skillfully manipulated photos to burn the images into your brain and, at the same time, created a need to figure out everything about each piece made this exhibit a lover of art could get lost into the point of not knowing what it is you want to know but knowing that you need to learn more.
an element vital to our economy and community survival. Entire neighbourhoods are named for the diversity of the small businesses and people that inhabit them. Little Jamaica, Little Italy and Chinatown bring life to our urban centres.
nesses employ almost 70% of people in the private sector. Small business is
The total lack of commercial rent protections is threatening small businesses and the jobs they have created. There are neither guidelines for fair and predictable rent increases, nor set standards for leases and shared costs. Commercial landlords can charge, change and do most anything they want. It is legal to increase rents to any height. Landlords can evict small businesses in favour of new tenants willing to pay the landlords hefty rent increases. Landlords can pass on surprise bills for thousands of dollars at their sole discretion. Landlords are not held to any basic building maintenance repair or heating-cooling standards.
Commonly accepted guide -
lines and standards that exist for residential tenants do not apply to commercial rents. Furthermore, there are no official mechanisms to resolve disputes between commercial landlords and tenants. Tenants become victims to the predatory methods of commercial landlords.
There are big differences between the philosophy of free market and fair markets in relation to commercial property. Aaron Binder of the Better Way Alliance studied rent costs and leases for the small business sector. His report found that three quarters of small businesses have experienced a time/time rent increase of 10-15% or more, and one in six have experienced an increase of 50% or more. One in ten have seen their rent double during a single increase. Over 40% of small businesses have moved in the past due to rent increases or difficulties with their leases, or landlords. Over half anticipate being forced to move at the end of
their current lease. The Better Way Alliance suggests the government should do the following:
• Create rent guidelines for a yearto-year increase that apply to all commercial tenants including new tenants.
• Standardize leases to ensure fairness and transparency for shared costs. Ensure priority is given to existing tenants when the lease term is up.
• Create a mechanism to enforce rules and resolve disputes.
Most small businesses advocate for: ethical employment, decent work, paid sick days, better wages, and fair scheduling practices. Unfortunately, most small employers are busy trying to survive the chaotic marketplace, and deal with their demanding landlords.
a day at the Art Gallery of Ontario
simone@carib101.com
I have to admit, even though I didn’t vibe with my therapist/social worker, going to her helped me move through some really tough stuff. I continued to see her for a few weeks, and during that time I learned some valuable lessons, and she did a great job of providing a safe and non-judgmental space for me to express my thoughts, feelings, and concerns. This emotional support helped me feel heard and understood; I didn't feel as isolated and alone as I had been feeling.
Going to therapy encouraged me to self-reflect and become more aware of how I operated in this world. In the short time that I saw her, I gained a deeper understanding of my thoughts, behaviors, and emotions, and this led to tremendous personal growth and improved my
decision-making. To be completely honest, I didn’t realize until I started seeing her how emotional my decision-making had been, and how damaging these decisions were to my wellbeing.
What was most impactful for me was the practical coping skills and strategies to manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges that I learned during that time. The one that sticks out the most to me was when I shared with her that I had again got myself involved in a senseless sexual experience. I remember feeling a lot of shame when I was sharing this. This was when I learned one of the most valuable lessons, one so poignant, that I utilize the visual to this day.
“Simone,” she explained. “Have you watched figure skating?”
“Yes, I have,” I replied. “Okay, well I want you to think about when a figure skater is skating and they fall, what do they do after they fall?”
I sat back and thought about the figure skating I had watched on television. The answer came to me immediately. “When they fall, they get back up.” “Ahhh,” she said. “Exactly! This is how you
have to look at life and life situations. In life, you are going to make mistakes, you are going to mess up, but I want you to see yourself like a figure skater. When you fall, get right back up. Keep going.
I had never thought of it like that. This analogy struck me to my core. It was okay that I was making mistakes, all I had to do is get back up and keep going. It was a visual tool that was empowering, and I have used this to better navigate my ups and downs. What she had done in a very short time was help me to identify my unhealthy patterns of behavior and work towards positive changes. I began to improve on my communication skills, learned how to set healthy boundaries, and I developed healthier habits. I began to set achievable goals and create actionable plans to reach them. This process fostered a sense of empowerment and accomplishment. One strategy was making agreements with myself and holding myself to these agreements. For example, if I am dating someone, I give myself a deadline to decide on that relationship. This way I don’t waste time pouring myself into someone, which was something
desmond@carib101.com CARIBBEAN
In 1520 the Guaiquerí of Cubagua had had enough of the exploitation and staged a major revolt resulting in the deaths of a significant number of Spaniards before the Spaniards were able to regain control of the islands.
In 1542, Charles V of Spain issued the New Laws of the Indies, which among other regulations, ordered that no free Native Americans should be forced to work as divers, and that religious authorities in Venezuela were to oversee the treatment of the enslaved
Native Americans in the fisheries. It was further stated that if pearl fishing could not be done without costing the divers their lives, then pearl fishing in the area was to cease.
Subsequently, the Spaniards began to traffic kidnapped Africans to the pearl fisheries as the Indigenous populations died off from disease and over-exploitation. In an effort to protect the remaining native populations, a royal decree of 1558 stated that only Africans (and no Native Americans) should be used for pearl diving since it was known that Africans were better swimmers than Europeans. Felipillo, who became one of the most celebrated maroon chiefs of Panama, had been a pearl diver before escaping to freedom in the mountainous jungles of Panama. When pearl fisheries were discovered in the waters of Bermuda, the English immediately turned to West Afri-
ca as a source of divers as there were no Native Americans on Bermuda to be exploited. In 1616 Governor Daniel Tucker instructed that Africans should be imported to dive for the pearls. In 1616, the first African and a Kalinago were brought to Bermuda on the ship Edwin to dive for pearls.
In her article "Enslaved Pearl Divers in the Sixteenth Century Caribbean," published online September 8th, 2010, Molly A. Wars states that "Preliminary research suggests that male and female enslaved Africans were being purchased by fishery residents in roughly equal numbers by the first decade of the seventeenth century." meaning that African women were just as skilled swimmers and divers as African men.
So, the myth that Black people can’t swim because our bones are too dense is what we in the Caribbean would call in the words of the Jamaican reggae
that I had made a habit of doing.
This is why I encourage readers to really think about going to speak with someone. Through ongoing therapy, you can develop long-term strategies for maintaining your mental and emotional well-being. I guarantee you that this will contribute to a higher quality of life and overall life satisfaction.
Therapy helps you delve into the root causes of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By addressing underlying issues, you are less likely to experience recurring problems and can make lasting changes. Through therapy, you can develop resilience, and this can help you better navigate challenges and maintain a positive outlook even in difficult circumstances.
Life is not easy, not for any of us, and sometimes we need a helping hand. Don’t feel anyway when you are not at your best. Take these opportunities to grow through your pain, learn more about yourself, and live your absolute best life.
singer Pluto Shervington in his hit song "Your Honour" “a wicked and awful lie” conjured up by racists as one of the many things that Black people can’t do. This was of course a means of mind control.
To learn more about Africans and swimming before ‘the big lie’ discouraged African-descendant peoples in the Americas from swimming, read the carefully researched, well written papers “Enslaved Swimmers and Divers in the Atlantic World,” by Professor Kevin Dawson, which can be found at http://www. drmagrann.com/magrannclan/Dawson_ JAH.pdf and “The Truth Behind African Americans and Swimming,” by Maria Burzillo which can be found at https:// www.teamunify.com/lscnes/UserFiles/ File/Maria B - The Truth behind AA & Swimmings
others make the same discovery through infused food in 2018.
viduals that are lighting the way for others to follow in their footsteps. People like Chef Melissa Anthony aka MJ Cocojuana are bravely defining the field where many others still fear to tread. As with many cannabis advocates and entrepreneurs, her initial connection to cannabis came through its ability to help her heal from health issues. After discovering how much better cannabis was for her condition in comparison to pharmaceutical options, she was kickstarted by her mom Janet (who happens to be the “J” in MJ Cocojuana) to begin seeking to help
Prior to the start of her brand, she was formally trained at George Brown Collegiate as a Chef. Melissa also found the inspiration to help people from early work experience in the health care system. After gaining some further training with food and cannabis, her main goals are now to educate people about the benefits of cannabis, correct usage and dosage, as well as simply how infused food can improve one’s quality of life. There have been some challenges for her to overcome like her own battle with self confidence in believing she was strong enough to make an impact on the market and in the community. Yet the rewards she values most are the connections she’s made within the welcoming cannabis community among which have helped mentor her towards being fierce, passionate and dedicated about the thing she loves most.
Blessed with a powerful and articulate palette, Chef Melissa can determine the ingredients of almost any dish by just tasting it! Also, she utilizes the many global influences at her fingertips thanks to Toronto being an incredibly diverse multicultural metropolis. When asked where her strength was in terms of cuisine, without hesitation she replied “Caribbean food! I love tropical flavours and that naturally pairs easily with Caribbean cuisine. The
recipe I’ve given you is for a Tamarind BBQ sauce that is thick, rich, tangy, sweet and with a little kick of heat. No matter what protein you’re using, you’ll want to put this all over everything!”
She served up a plate of Grilled Jerk
Chicken covered in the tamarind bbq sauce with a side of rice and peas along with crispy fried plantain that absolutely changed my life. But you don’t just have to take my word for it! Try the recipe below to transport your kitchen to the Caribbean and elevate to a new level with cannabis! Please contact Chef Melissa via Instagram @mjcocojuana for bookings and more!
MJ’s Tamarind BBQ Sauce
By
Chef Melissa Anthony
(Makes 2 cups - 5mg THC per tbsp)
• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 med. red onion
• 3 cloves of garlic (smashed)
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper (rough chopped) * remove seeds for less heat
• 2 tbsp chilli powder
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 can (14ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
• 3 tbsp tamarind concentrate or paste
• 2 tbsp of Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp MJ’s Infused Honey
• *(If you choose not to make this a cannabis infused sauce just omit the Cannabis coconut oil.)
• 2 tbsp of fancy molasses
Instructions
1. In a skillet over med-high heat add the coconut oil. once the oil is hot add the red onion. You will want to get the onions to get a little char or browning on them. This step adds such a depth of flavour to your BBQ sauce.
2. Once your onions have a bit of char on them add the garlic, ginger and scotch bonnet pepper *(scotch bonnet pepper can be quite hot so you can adjust the heat at this point. Continue to sauté for 1 minute.
3. Transfer the sautéed ingredients to a medium sized saucepan before adding all other ingredients.
4. Bring the sauce to a boil the reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 Minutes stirring occasionally until thickened. Let cool completely and transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.
Store your delicious MJ’s Tamarind BBQ Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
Do you want to sell your property but feel it’s in dire need of some TLC? If so, be prepared to put in a little extra effort to show it off and get a good price. Here are a few points to consider.
Sell without a legal warranty
If you’re unable to renovate your property because of a lack of money or time, consider putting it up for sale without a legal warranty. In this case, the buyer agrees to buy the home “as-is” and can’t sue you if they discover a hidden defect. In other words, they’re fully aware of the risks and accept them. This is often because houses without a legal warranty sell for much less than those with one.
Professional inspection
Are you uncomfortable with the idea of selling a potentially dangerous property or one that requires expensive renovations? If so, have it professionally inspected. This will give you a clear picture of its condition and help you set a suitable price.
Do you dream of owning your own home? If so, you’ve probably considered buying a single-family home with a large yard. However, this type of living situation isn’t right for everyone — and it’s not just a matter of budget. Here are a few things to consider before house hunting.
Privacy
Unless your neighbours are particularly noisy and disrespectful, owning a single-family home rather than a semi-detached townhouse or condo ensures maximum peace and privacy. If you’re a light sleeper and have a low noise tolerance, you’d be better off with a detached home.
Freedom
Unlike condos, you’re not required to consult with others about maintaining common areas within your detached house. If you hate conflict, this is a strong argument in favour of a single-family home. Plus, owning a
home gives you the freedom to renovate without asking anyone’s permission — except your municipality.
Upkeep
When you own a single-family home, you’re solely responsible for maintaining the house and yard. Unless you hire professionals to trim the hedges, repair the roof, repaint the deck or shovel the snow, these tasks will be added to your list of chores.
Finally, keep in mind that single-family homes are more expensive than other types of properties. Generally, the purchase price and municipal taxes are significantly higher. However, detached homes have a high resale value, especially when properly maintained. Whatever your decision, contact a real estate agent to evaluate your options.
An inspection also gives you the evidence you need to negotiate a fair sale. If an interested buyer says your roof must be completely replaced, but your inspection report indicates a simple repair is sufficient, you can stand behind the facts.
Finally, keep in mind that there are several strategies for making your home attractive, like decluttering, depersonalizing and cleaning. Do business with a real estate agent to simplify your life when you put your house up for sale.
It’s essential to have a high level of knowledge when completing residential and commercial real estate transactions to prevent errors and omissions. As a result, most provinces require real estate agents to complete a certain number of hours of continuing education each year.
Goals
Keeping up with industry standards is paramount to protecting the public. The real estate industry is fast-paced and constantly changing. Therefore, by continuing to learn and improve their knowledge, real estate professionals can provide their clients better service while maintaining their licences.
The continuing education courses offered to real estate agents cover all types of subject matter, including:
• Ethics and deontology
• Laws and regulations
• Compliance obligations
• Data and personal information security
• Contracts and forms
• Market value assessment
• Financing and financial implications of a transaction
• Situations that can affect a real estate transaction
If you’re thinking of buying or selling your home, give yourself peace of mind by using the services of a licensed real estate agent.
When buying real estate, a buyer and seller sign a contract with the price, possession date, and other agreement terms. The buyer can then sell that contract to a third party for a profit or a loss, and this is called an assignment sale. The original buyer is the assignor, and the new buyer is the assignee who will eventually take possession of the property. Assignment sales can be for resale properties but are popular among preconstruction condominiums.
Why would buyers want to buy an assignment sale?
Often with pre-construction sales, there is a lengthy delay from when the original buyer signed an agreement and the final closing date. In many instances, the initial buyer situation might have changed, and instead of arranging a mortgage and closing the deal, they may sell their contract below the current market value.
With an assignment sale, a buyer can quickly buy a newly built property since most assignment sales happen closer to completion.
When buyers purchase directly from the builder during pre-construction, they must make a substantial deposit. Some buyers prefer to grow their money in other areas, such as stocks, instead of using it as a deposit. With pre-construction condos, a builder can cancel the project and refund the buyer’s deposit a long time after the original contract date. However, with
an assignment sale, construction is usually underway when the original buyer sells the contract.
How to find assignment sales?
Since the original buyer has yet to be the property owner, they cannot market the property on the MLS system or the internet. Some realtors may have a list of original buyers who plan to assign their contract. Many people advertise an assignment sale online without disclosing the address, and some might be scammers. Most assignment sales state in the agreement of purchase and sale that the original buyer can assign the sale contract to a new buyer, provided that the builder approves. Assignment sales are complex, so ask your lawyer to review the agreement before committing.
Let’s look at the cost of buying an assignment property.
In addition to the price both parties settle on, the assignee must also pay the assignor the amount paid as a deposit to date, plus the assignor’s profit. If there are more deposits at a future date, the assignee will deliver them directly to the builder. Since it is a pre-construction, the assignee, with some exceptions, may pay HST on the original purchase price along with the builder’s assignment fee. Closing costs include land transfer tax, lawyer’s fees, development charges, Tarion fees, and other expenses. First-time buyers save by paying less land transfer tax. Assignment sales can be difficult to finance because lenders lend based on the original purchase price rather than the actual cost-plus profits. The assignee can ask the lender to order a new appraisal if the suite price increases substantially. I suggest making the assignment subject to your lender’s approval.
Can an assignee work out a new deal with the builder?
Since the assignee buys a contract, the assignee cannot renegotiate with the builder. The new buyer must satisfy the terms of the original agreement and enjoy the benefits of choosing the upgrades and paint colours at least one year before completing the assignment. The assignee can choose additional upgrades for a fee.
What’s involved in closing the deal?
There are two closings with assignment deals: the first is between the assignor and assignee, and the second is between the assignee and the builder. With the first closing, the new buyer pays the original buyer the deposit plus any profit they have decided on. If there is a loss, the actual buyer will compensate the new buyer. With the second closing, the assignee, who is the new buyer, will pay the builder the balance ow-
ing, and the builder will then transfer the title to the property.
With newly built condos, the new buyer will get interim occupancy when the suite is ready to move in, but the city has not yet given condo status. Interim occupancy can take a few months or a few years, and during this time, the new buyer pays the builder the equivalent of their mortgage payment, condo fees, and property tax. If an assignment occurs during the interim period, it’s up to both the assignor and assignee to iron out a deal.
Buyers can benefit from assignment sales because the purchase price is usually below the current value, and the buyers do not have to wait a long time to close. If you are buying an assignment sale, then take the time to research the property. With an assignment sale, a buyer should ask an accountant, a lawyer, and a realtor for help.
If you’re gearing up for a major renovation project, whether it’s roof repairs, a kitchen remodel or a house extension, you’ll inevitably have to talk to multiple contractors. Experts recommend that you obtain two or three quotes before choosing a contractor. Here are some tips to guide your selection process.
• Price. The quoted amount is no guarantee of quality. Comparing the price of each element within the quote, such as the materials and labour, rather than the total cost will help you determine an accurate amount.
• Contract type. A fixed-price contract means the contractor pays the difference if the final cost exceeds the quoted price at the end of the contract. If you go with a cost-plus contract, the quoted price may be lower, but you’ll have to pay for any unpredicted overages. Evaluate which contract type is best suited to your financial flexibility.
• Relationship. It’s crucial for you and the contractor to have a good working relationship. You should feel comfortable doing business with them. If you have differences of opinion during your first meeting, you’re probably better off working with someone else.
• Details. Each estimate you receive should be itemized so that you can make an accurate comparison. If any information is missing on one of the quotes, feel free to ask about the omission and request an adjustment that includes the missing detail.
Before finalizing your choice of contractor, make sure they have all the necessary certifications and licences.
Basements are frequently exposed to moisture and humidity. This is partly because rain can accumulate near the foundation of your home. Keeping it dry will help you avoid a host of problems. Here are four ways you can make your basement more water-resistant.
1. Repair cracks
It’s normal to see fine lines appear in your foundation over time. However, large, deep cracks can allow water to seep inside. It’s important to promptly repair these fissures with a moisture-proof sealant to help prevent leaks.
2. Apply waterproof paint
Waterproof paint prevents water from seeping into your home by creating a vapour barrier for your foundation. However, this safeguard is ineffective in severe weather or flooding. Therefore, it’s best used together with other measures.
3. Adjust your ground level
It’s important to ensure that the land slopes downward from your foundation so that water can flow away from your home rather than into it. The ground may even out over time, so you’ll
need to add soil periodically to maintain the right grade.
4. Install a French drain
A French drain system redirects water away from your home’s foundation to a designated location. This solution is well-suited to properties with insufficient space to allow for sloped-ground drainage.
Local waterproofing specialists can assess your home and determine what combination of strategies is best for your basement.
Are the exterior walls of your home or business made of brick, stone or concrete? If so, it’s important to know the signs of masonry deterioration. Watch for these five clues and take action to prevent minor issues from becoming safety hazards.
1. Bulging. A section of a brick wall might show signs of “belly-beef swelling” due to warping. It’s usually caused by water accumulating in the wall behind the brick. The presence of mold and rust can cause the wall to weaken, posing a risk of collapse.
2. Cracking. Unrepaired cracks in your masonry can lead to leaks and seepage. Cracks may also be a sign that the house or foundations are sagging.
3. Spalling. Temperature fluctuations and other factors can cause your masonry to chip or crumble. It’s important to repair or replace any broken or splintered stonework as soon as possible to avoid collapse.
4. Efflorescence. Excess moisture can cause white spots to appear on your brick or stone wall. These blemishes can easily be cleaned off and are only a concern if they recur frequently.
5. Degraded mortar. Old, crumbling mortar between the bricks can compromise the wall’s stability and make the entire building vulnerable to moisture. Remove all traces of the old material before applying the new mortar.
Do you spot any of these issues in your building? Contact a local masonry specialist to handle it and help you prevent long-term damage.
PUZZLE
so
Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: You must not repeat the numbers
through
or
in the same
ARIES
You’ll be in the spotlight this week. You’ll lead a group that defends your community. You’re charismatic and important to the people around you. This could boost your self-esteem.
TAURUS
If you have children, you’ll spend a lot of time getting ready for backto-school season. You could decide to move or tackle a major home renovation. If you’re single, you fall in love at first sight.
GEMINI
You won’t be afraid to speak your mind and will say out loud what others are thinking. This will draw attention to your opinions. You’ll find the necessary solutions to get out of a difficult financial situation.
At work, you’ll be courted by the competition and receive an offer that’s hard to refuse. You’ll have to do a lot of running around for a family member. In love, someone in your circle of friends could make a statement that leaves you perplexed.
LEO
A new job or life is taking shape. Your dreams are finally coming true! You’ll be most excited about the new opportunities that come your way. In love, life will put someone very romantic in your path.
The luckiest signs this week: VIRGO, LIBRA AND SCORPIO PUZZLE
VIRGO
If your energy levels are low, brew a second cup of coffee before starting your workday. If your health is fragile, you’ll find the right treatments to improve your quality of life. Stress can be a source of momentary energy.
LIBRA
You have no choice but to tackle the obstacles in front of you and overcome the pitfalls. You’ll have to negotiate with many people at the same time, which could prove stressful. You’ll make new friends and expand your social networks.
SCORPIO
At work or elsewhere, you’ll have to deal with constant emergencies. Everything is falling behind. Someone close to you will help you take a step back. If you’re in a relationship, you must establish common goals to secure your future together.
SAGITTARIUS
You’ll have fun organizing an interesting getaway in nature. You must take some time off. Make sure you prepare in advance to make this adventure possible and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
CAPRICORN
Major projects often cause anxiety. Perseverance is the key to success. Don’t be afraid of change; it’s good for you. If your emotions are running high, simmer down by taking a step back.
AQUARIUS
Before making a decision that will affect several people, consult them and get their consent. At work, you’ll reach a profitable agreement after long negotiations.
It’s time to take care of yourself. If you change certain habits, you’ll feel more energized, and your love for life will be contagious. You must improve your health; your doctor will tell you what you need to do.
LAND FOR SALE IN TOBAGO:
10500 Square feet near Mount Irving Golf course. Approve by Town and Country Edward 647218-1333.
ART FOR SALE: Want your children to improve in learning. Buy a motivational specifically made art piece at a reasonable price. Also art made with your favorite 4 colors. Call Kelvin 647-858-4660.
LAND FOR SALE IN TRINIDAD:
Land for sale in Chaguanas
Orchard Gardens approx 5,000 Square feet. End lot $250K CDNWhatsApp # 647-848-3931
FOR SALE: Homes for saleLange Park, Chaguanas, Trinidad - 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, fully a/c 400k CAD. 437-929-6750
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
HIRING: Looking for a helper to do general labour, garden cleaning, landscaping, and winter snow removal. Cash paid weekly. Located at Morningside & Lawrence in Scarborough. Please call: (416)269-5174.
647-722-6298
Some restrictions may apply. We reserve the right of refusal.
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
SHARED ACCOMADATIONS:
1 Bedroom available in basement apartment with Side entrance Shared accommodation, Male only , No parking, no smoking or drinking Everything included. $900. Medowvale and Sheppard Call 647-447-2377
LOOKING
LOOKING FOR A JOB: 29 years old male looking for a looking for a job. Sanjay 437-484-5151
SUNDAY SERVICE: Fountain of Truth Ministries Pastor: Reverend Maxine Campbell Worship Address: 2170 Kipling Avenue, Etobicoke Percy Johnson School – Cafeteria Sundays: 10.am – 2. pm Teaching, Worship, Ministering For info call: 416 748 0211
MISSISSAUGA: Mississauga Missionary Baptist Church invites you to join us at 1620 Dundas St West, each Sunday at 10am for praise, worship and in-depth Bible teaching with Pastor Sean, 416-219-9137
We are in the process of expansion and constantly looking for the best of the best! Dedicated salespeople; people interested in opportunities to help others while also being able to help themselves. For more information, please contact Trish 647-722-6298 or trish@carib101.com
If your business has a website, maintains a social media presence and uses online marketing campaigns, it’s important that you take full advantage of all data regarding traffic, click-through rates and purchases. This information will help you retain your current clients and attract new ones. Here are a few types of data to help you make sense of your digital performance.
Unique visitors
Calculating the number of unique visitors your website gets, on which pages they spend time and the geographical location where they reside provides you with critical information with which to evaluate your current marketing strategies.
You can also determine whether visitors found your website through a search engine or a social media website. This is valuable information you can use to craft more targeted campaigns.
Click-through and bounce rates
Tracking the number of clicks per visitor and how long they spend on each of your website’s pages can tell you a lot about its quality. If visitors tend to leave quickly, it may be time to think about a redesign. Similarly, if they never seem to visit important pages, or any page past the homepage, a revision of the site or of your marketing strategy may be in order.
Tracking customer satisfaction through survey results is a good way to identify your platform’s strengths and weaknesses. If you have an e-commerce component, you can also identify popular products. This will help you define effective marketing strategies to attract new customers and retain current ones.
To get the most out of your online presence, determine which indicators are the most relevant to your business. There’s a lot of data out there and using it could help you more than you realize.
If you own a small business, having a website is vital to its success. To mark BDC Small Business Week, which runs from October 20 to 26, 2019, here are five reasons you should create a website for your company.
1. Gain visibility Websites allow clients to find out more about your business. If search engine optimization (SEO) is used, they can also help you connect with your target market when they appear in search engine results.
2. Provide information Websites are great platforms for organi-
zing and communicating a lot of information efficiently. A well-designed website, both in terms of ease of use and of the information you put on it, can make a huge impact on your bottom line.
3. Extend your reach
Word of mouth shouldn’t be underestimated but having a website will allow you to reach clients in other cities and regions. This is especially relevant if you have an online store.
4. Get free market research
Tracking your website’s traffic statistics can be a powerful way to shape your marketing strategy. You can find out more
about the kinds of people who search for your business and what motivates them to make purchases.
5. Enhance your brand image
Your website says a lot about your company. It can be the glue that holds your brand image together, and the design choices you make will play a key role in converting visitors into customers. To create an attractive and effective website, work with a reputable business. In particular, many local media companies offer website creation services.
Entrepreneurship among women in Canada is on the rise. Of the nearly three million Canadians that are self-employed, more than a third are women. What’s more, according to the 2016 Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) Canada Report on Women’s Entrepreneurship, nearly 85% of Canadian women surveyed indicated they were interested in starting a business.
While starting your own business is challenging, it can also be very rewarding. Here’s some advice every woman who wants to be an entrepreneur should follow.
1. Find out what resources are available. Federal or provincial funding and grants may be available for launching
your business. Other organizations may also offer financing. Mentorship programs are another type of resource that may prove valuable.
Business organizations at regional and national levels should also be explored. Many provide workshops and offer free resources for women starting businesses.
2. Network with other entrepreneurs. The connections you make with other entrepreneurs will play a big part in your success. Join business associations in your area to meet them. The connections you make with other women entrepreneurs are likely to be particularly valuable.
3. Never stop learning. Take all the steps
necessary to become an expert in your field. Enroll in classes, attend seminars, go to conferences and read everything you can about your industry.
4. Persevere. Owning your own business is hard work. Most people aren’t overnight successes and instead work for years to achieve their goals.
Perseverance is the most important characteristic a businesswoman can have. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Instead, learn from them and use them to make yourself and your company stronger.
The path to success for the entrepreneur isn’t usually a straight one. However, passion, hard work and believing in yourself will help you overcome trials and get you through challenging times.
Driving on gravel roads can be challenging, especially if you’re not used to it. Here are four essential tips for driving on gravel roads to ensure you have a safe and smooth journey.
1. Slow down. The key to driving on gravel is to reduce your speed. The loose rocks and uneven surfaces on gravel roads can be unpredictable. Slowing down allows you to control your vehicle better and react to unexpected obstacles or changes in road conditions.
2. Maintain a safe following distance. Gravel roads create more dust and debris, greatly reducing visibility. Therefore, increasing the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you is a good idea. This’ll give you
more time to react if the vehicle kicks up rocks or encounters an obstacle.
3. Avoid sudden manœuvres. You can easily lose traction when driving aggressively on gravel roads. As a rule of thumb, accelerate gradually and avoid taking sharp turns or braking abruptly so you don’t spin out.
4. Drive in the tracks of other vehicles. Drive in the middle of the road or the tracks left by other tires. Avoid driving on loose or deep gravel, as it can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
When driving on gravel roads, patience and attentiveness are key. Take your time, be aware of your surroundings and adapt your driving style accordingly.
Do you want to pass a semi-truck or bus?
Heavy vehicles have more blind spots than standard vehicles. Their drivers also need more time and space to brake and manœuvre. Therefore, you must adapt your driving when sharing the road. Follow these tips to safely pass one of these vehicles.
Before passing
• Make sure you have enough time and space. It’s not like overtaking a car.
• Signal your intention to pass.
• Make sure the driver of the heavy vehicle can see you. If you can’t see one of the vehicle’s side mirrors, the driver can’t see you either.
• Use your windshield wipers at maximum speed if it’s raining or snowing.
While passing
• Accelerate sufficiently, while following
the speed limit, to avoid remaining in the driver’s blind spot for too long.
• Hold the steering wheel firmly to combat the effect of turbulence. This effect is always present but more noticeable in bad weather. It can kick up swirls of rain or snow, considerably reducing your visibility.
After passing
• Move back into your lane only when you can see the entire vehicle in your rear-view mirror. This ensures you keep a safe distance and avoid cutting the driver off.
Finally, remember that you should never overtake a heavy vehicle that’s turning right at an intersection. It may have to take up part of the left lane to make the turn. Drive safely!
At CACD, we cultivate leadership and excellence by combining mentorship, workshops, and STEM education to nurture communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. Our comprehensive approach spans academic achievement, life skills, physical well-being, and career guidance. Through personalized tutoring and workshops, we foster effective communication, critical thinking, and time management. Emphasizing physical health, we integrate play and nutrition education. Our career support encompasses exploration, readiness, and internships, reinforced by mental health resources and financial literacy.
Furthermore, we operate with a well rounded approach by blending in Creativity, Expression, and Cultural Identity, fostering self-expression through media art, photography, and film, and embracing cultural diversity through dynamic events and practical workshops. We also encourage Higher Education, offering vital scholarship and financial aid resources, and providing crucial guidance to post-secondary students navigating university and college life. This holistic commitment extends to Engaging with Impact, actively encouraging participation in crucial social issues through meaningful discussions, impactful campaigns, and community-driven projects, reinforced by ongoing tutoring and mentoring for a purposeful and meaningful journey.
Program Activities include:
Digital
Financial
Mental
Academics
Cultural
Career Guidance
