Our country in crisis

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Volume 12 • Issue 19

Wednesday, October 25 2023

“I received an email from a member of our community sharing their displeasure with the article that I wrote about Justin Trudeau last week. The individual stated his thoughts about my work, and then went ahead and labeled me a Conservative....”

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PAGE 2

FEATURE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

JAEL RICHARDSON

Photo Credit: Owen Fox

A woman of excellence, a beacon of inspiration I am going to do things a little differently this edition. I want to first introduce an impressive, and progressive experience that as a writer touches me at my core, and then, I am going to introduce the incredible powerhouse behind this initiative, and why this week she is our Woman Empowered.

She is the founder of The Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD), Canada’s first festival dedicated to diverse authors and storytellers. They most recently announced the programming line-up for its fifth annual FOLD Kids Book Fest running November 1st to 5th, 2023.

The FOLD Foundation is a registered Canadian charity that celebrates underrepresented and marginalized authors and storytellers from Canada and around the world through two annual festivals – the Festival of Literary Diversity each May, and the FOLD Kids Book Fest in November – as well as through a number of literary programming initiatives held throughout the year. This year’s festival will be presented in a multi-modal format, beginning with virtual events and transitioning into in-person events in Brampton, Ontario on the weekend.

Imagine if you can engaging in live, and virtual experiences with: David Suzuki, Khodi Dill, Gaitrie Persaud, Mark Sakamoto, Deidre Havrelock, Nadia L. Hohn, Cristina Quintero, some of the great storytellers of our time. The virtual events take place November 1st – 3rd, 2023, and are curated for various age groups. This year’s virtual events include: An Insect Expedition with David Suzuki (Wednesday, November 1st // 1:30pm ET // Virtual), Discovering Indigenous Ingenuity with Deidre Havrelock, The Illustrator Battle and Activism for Young People. There are also events specifically designed for educators, like: The Antiracist Kitchen and Engaging Japanese-Canadian History.

The In-person events, which take place November 3rd – 5th, 2023, will feature the annual Come Read with Me: Pajama Party, the Teen Spoken Word Showcase, as well as: writing, cooking, and art-based workshops at the Brampton Library. On November 5th, New York Times best-selling author Angie Thomas will interview teen book influencer Ainara Alleyne (Sunday, November 5th // 2:00pm ET // Lester B. Pearson Theatre) to close out the festival. Tickets for the FOLD Kids Book Fest went on sale September 27th, 2023 at www.thefoldcanada.org/kids.

The FOLD Kids Book Fest’s virtual exhibit hall will feature more than fifteen exhibitor booths from community and publishing-based organizations where guests can gather information like book lists and reading guides that support learning.

I am proud to say that this incredible festival is being orchestrated by an amazing talent out of the city of Mississauga, and I am even prouder to say that I have known this exceptional woman since high school. When I saw the email come through, I knew right away that she was the perfect candidate for this feature.

From the first day that I met her in grade 11, Jael Richardson has been characterized by her: unwavering determination, strong work ethic, and resilience in the face of challenges. Her intelligence is only complemented by her wisdom, allowing her to make sound decisions and navigate complex situations with grace.

She is a woman of excellence and a lifelong learner, continuously seeking knowledge and growth. She is open-minded and adaptable, willing to embrace change and learn from every experience. Her confidence is grounded in humility, and she has always been willing to acknowledge her limitations and work on self-improvement.

In her professional pursuits (like the FOLD), she demonstrates exceptional leadership skills. She inspires and motivates those around her, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.

Her integrity is unshakable; she upholds high moral and ethical standards, earning the trust and respect of her colleagues and peers. When we finally got a chance to catch up, I was envious of her glow, and then I found out that she was basking in the Florida sun.

“Jael; it is so nice to see you again. It has been such a long time. Now, I know a little bit about your story, but why don’t we refresh and share your story again.”

“Of course, Simone. It is so nice to see you again as well,” Jael replied. “I guess I can start from the beginning. I was born and raised in Meadowvale, Mississauga, and my family moved to Brampton. I ended up going to the University of Guelph where I studied English and theater. I loved University. It was time to figure out who I was, and what I wanted to do, but very quickly I landed in theater, and in English, as well as History. It was during this time that I truly began to discover my Blackness. I was curious about what was sparking interest in me.

I played a Portuguese girl in Lion in the Streets in my first year of university.

Angelique is a Black woman who burned down the city of Montreal. There is a mystery behind the story, and there were so few Black students to play this role, so my professor jumped on the opportunity when he saw my interest.”

Even though she did enjoy the theater, what stuck most for her was writing. “My brother told me to write my dad’s story. I sought out an MFA in writing and

wanted to complete the story of my dad before I graduated. I was pregnant when I started the program, and I finished the book when I graduated. Not too long after I started teaching as a professor. I think that I bit off more than I could chew, and I couldn’t do all of them, (Mom, teacher, writer), so I chose to be a writer.”

Her first book came out in 2012, and she started FOLD in 2020.

“I had started my first book about my dad; I released the book, and nothing happened.

The book kinda flopped to be honest. I was like, what was going on. I started to look at literary festivals, and I instantly saw the lack of diversity. This lack of diversity in literary festivals seemed to be an issue in the United States as well. Dalton Higgins wrote an article about it, and I started to dream. A festival Director, this could work for me.

I decided to start a festival to ensure that diversity was respected. When I started this, I had a lot of education behind me, but no business acumen. I had to take the time to learn that side of it. When I first started the festival my budget at the time was $100,000. Now the festival is $500,000 and growing.

I am so grateful because I have such incredible sponsors: The Angel Gabriel Foundation, Penguin Random House, Peel Elementary Teachers’ Local, Orca Books, as well as: The City of Brampton, Ontario Arts Council, Canadian Heritage, Ontario Creates, and more.

2025 is our 10th Anniversary of FOLD. I really want it to be a stable organization with great benefits for my staff.

Money is always the hardest part. I want to step out and someone else to come in, and it moves seamlessly.

We have established three full time jobs, and we want to establish four full time jobs. It is quite ambitious in the arts community.”

What can I say! I am so proud.

Go ahead Jael! Continue being a woman of excellence, a beacon of inspiration, embodying the qualities of strength, compassion, intelligence, and integrity.

You continue to leave a lasting impact on everyone you meet, making the world a brighter and better place.

Photo Credit: George Pimentel

Photographer: Photo Credit: Phillip Miller Photo Credit:

MylesLady “Jay” Joseph Photo Credit: Evermore Media PhotoRic Credit: Mensah Mathis @ricmathis

Written by Simone J. Smith Toronto Caribbean News

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Wednesday, October 25, 2023 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 3

Has killing become the new way of life in Canada?

Another look at medical assisted suicide SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

In 2021, Canada had more than 10,000 cases of euthanasia, and the country was set to expand access to what it calls medical aid in dying in 2022. Even then activists warned that the laws on the books regulating euthanasia and assisted suicide were already too loose.

The law had already expanded access since it was first enacted in 2016, in response to a Canadian Supreme Court decision. At first, euthanasia and assisted suicide were legalized for persons aged 18 and over if they had a serious condition, disease, or disability that was in an advanced, irreversible state of decline and they were enduring “Unbearable physical or mental suffering that cannot be relieved under conditions that patients consider acceptable.” A person’s death had to be “Reasonably foreseeable,” and the request for euthanasia had to be approved by at least two physicians.

A later amendment allowed the procedures for persons who were not terminally ill, and the question here is why?

This significantly broadened the number of people eligible, and 2021’s figure of 10,000 euthanasia deaths represented a 33% increase over the prior year’s statistics.

Human rights advocates began to take notice; they said that the country’s regulations lacked necessary safeguards, devalued the lives of disabled people, and was prompting doctors and health workers to suggest the procedure to those who might not otherwise consider it.

It was also reported that the Human Rights, the Criminal Code of Canada and numerous other codes and Acts in Quebec were modified in a surprisingly short period of time to make this process appear legal and legitimate. The rapid expansion of eligible participants seems to know no limits and little oversight, or effective remediation is included.

This is why the Natural and Common Law Tribunal For Public Health And Justice is making Canada’s MAiD – Medical Assistance in Dying program a priority and issuing an immediate Cease and Desist Order before it is too late.

Following an evidentiary hearing led by Tribunal Judge Gina Goad, a former British Columbia law enforcement Officer, the Natural and Common Law Tribunal for Public Health and Justice in its official findings held, inter alia, that: “Equally troubling, advocates say, are instances in which people have sought to be killed [under MAiD] because they weren’t getting adequate government support to live. Canada is set to expand euthanasia access next year, but these advocates say the system warrants further scrutiny now. Euthanasia “cannot be a default for Canada’s failure to fulfill its human rights obligations,” said Marie-Claude Landry, the head of its Human Rights Commission.

Marie-Claude Landry said she shares the “grave concern” voiced last year by three U.N. human rights experts, who wrote that Canada’s euthanasia law appeared to violate the agency’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights. They said the law had a “discriminatory impact” on disabled people and was inconsistent with Canada’s obligations to uphold international human rights standards.

Tim Stainton, Director of the Canadian Institute for Inclusion and Citizenship at the University of British Columbia, described Canada’s law as “Probably the biggest existential threat to disabled people since the Nazis’ program in Germany in the 1930s.” That is a HUGE statement to make.

More people, per capita, are dying with medical assistance (MAiD) in Quebec than anywhere else in the world, according to Quebec’s commission on end-of-life care.

Since the start of the pandemic, requests for the procedure have more than doubled— from 1,774 in 2019-2020 to 3,663 in 2021-22.

The increase means the percentage of people who chose MAiD in Quebec is greater than in Belgium and the Netherlands, where it has been legal for decades. It has been legal in Quebec since 2015.

Military Veterans seeking help for depression, anxiety, PTSD via VA help phone line were offered MAiD by apparently one possibly 2 VA case workers. “Four — perhaps even five — Canadian military veterans were given the option of medically-assisted death (MAID) by a now-suspended Veterans Affairs Canada caseworker,” the country’s Veterans Minister told a House of Commons committee. “We remain confident that this

is all related to one single employee, and it’s not a widespread or a systemic issue.”

A veteran and former Paralympian told a parliamentary committee that a caseworker from the Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) offered her medical assistance in dying (MAID), a week after the Veteran’s Affairs minister confirmed that at least four other veterans were offered the same thing.

Retired Cpl. Christine Gauthier, who has been trying to get a wheelchair ramp installed at her home for the past five years, testified that a caseworker told her that they could give her assisted dying, even offering to supply the MAiD equipment for her. “I was completely shocked and in despair,” she told CTV’s Power Play. “It is remotely just what they’re doing: exhausting us to the point of no return.” She was told, “Well, you know that we can assist you with assisted dying now if you’d like.” Retired Cpl. Christine Gauthier was shocked, “Are you serious?’ Like that easy, you’re going to be helping me to die but you won’t help me to live?” she said.

A spokesperson for MacAulay said Veterans Affairs is taking the issue ‘very seriously,’ while adding that providing advice on MAID is “Not a VAC service. Our employees have no role, or mandate to recommend or raise it. Considerations for MAiD are the subject of discussions between a patient and their primary care providers to determine appropriateness in each individual context.”

Has killing become the new way of life in Canada? It seems so.

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PAGE 5

Honourable Greg Fergus named as first Black Speaker of the House of Commons PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Greg Fergus was named the first Black Speaker of the House of Parliament on Tuesday, October 3rd, 2023. This historic appointment is an inspiring and significant milestone in Canadian history and politics. The monumental nature of this appointment is a turning point in Canada, and it speaks to the high regard that the Honourable Greg Fergus has among his colleagues, peers, friends, politicians and civic officials across Canada in the many calls of congratulations.

Honourable Fergus attained two Bachelor’s degrees in social science and the other in international relations from Carleton University. In addition, he has completed graduate studies in international relations. He has more than 30 years of experience in the private and public sectors, with not-for-profit organizations and in academic settings. He has done extensive work in federal politics at many levels of the Liberal Party of Canada where he served as National Director prior to his decision to run for office.

Greg Fergus was first elected Member of Parliament for Hull-Aylmer in October 2015 and served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister, and to the President of the Treasury Board since 2021. He was the previous Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Digital Government and to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development. In addition, he was a member of the Standing Committee on Finance.

Honourable Fergus is a founding member of the Parliamentary Black Caucus and the Liberal Black Caucus. He served as co-chair of both of these caucuses until April 2022.

In many ways he was instrumental in advancing the interests of African Canadians before the COVID-19 pandemic and afterwards to ensure that they were a priority for the government of Canada.

It was largely because of his involvement that the Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) was launched. The government of Canada’s website: ised-isde.canada.ca states, “The BEP is a partnership between the Government of Canada, Black-led business organizations, and financial institutions. With an investment of up to $265 million over four years, it will help Black Canadian business owners and entrepreneurs grow their businesses and succeed now and into the future.”

Tiffany Callender, CEO of the Federation of African Canadian Economics highlights the significance of this appointment. She writes, “Greg Fergus’s historic appointment as Speaker of the Canadian House of Commons is a Testament to his exemplary leadership, dedication to public service, and unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion.

His appointment not only shatters, but also serves as a source of inspiration for countless individuals from diverse backgrounds, reminding us of the boundless possibilities within Canada’s democratic institutions.”

Senator/Senatrice Bernadette Clement in a congratulatory message acknowledges the significance of this historic appointment. She states, “Greg Fergus is a well-respected figure on Parliament Hill and has been for years.

He is a terrific communicator, superbly eloquent in both English and French. He has actively encouraged and inspired so many Black folks over the years (including me) and will continue to do so for many more. I am certain that he will be devoted to his new role and that he will represent our country with great competence and elegance. Congratulations on your new role!”

In the House of Commons, Honourable Greg Fergus thanked his fellow colleagues for electing him to be speaker on October 4th, 2023. He states, “Today, I wish to thank all Canadians for the kind words of congratulations I have received so far. It is for you and because of you that all 338 members of Parliament gathered with the same goal of serving Canada and its people. Furthermore, I would like to specifically thank the people of HullAylmer for your support since 2015. My office and I remain committed to serving you. Be good.”

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Wednesday, October 25, 2023 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

NEWS

PAGE 7

“We wouldn’t see a 2% price spike; we’d see a 20% spike.”

Rising oil prices and the forces behind it akshahi

MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The battle that has been activated again between Israel and Palestine this time can and will have far-reaching effects around the globe from a business and financial point of view, and the price of oil is and will be at the center of it all.

Let us examine how all this is possible. Even though Israel and Palestine have been at each other’s throats forever, there has never been so much at stake as is the case now.

Just a few days ago global oil prices went up by 4% over fears that this conflict could escalate into a much bigger monster, mostly by production cuts by Saudi Arabia and Russia.

Amidst all this, the public has been made to believe that things are not so bad, and here is why. “The impact on supply and demand is pretty much zero so far. The attack itself has no effect on the oil market directly,” said Homayoun Falakshahi, a senior oil analyst at data provider Kpler.

“However, wary investors are pricing in some geopolitical risk,” said Fal-

This tells us that we civilians are being gouged just on a perceived forecast of more trouble.

As things stand, Israel and Palestine are not major oil-producing countries, however, their geopolitical position could become a problem if this conflict continues, here is how.

Israel has two oil refineries with a combined capacity of almost 300,000 barrels per day. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), Palestinian territories produce no oil.

Israel has accused Iran of backing and arming Palestine in the past. Iran stands in solidarity with Palestine but has said that it has no hand in these recent attacks, and at this time the United States does not have “direct information” linking Iran to what it calls an unprecedented assault, but if this changes, all hell could break loose, and so can your oil prices, so be prepared.

If a clear link to Iran emerges, America is more than likely to intervene, and this has all the markings of oil sanctions written all over it. Shortages and soaring prices for the poor citizens of the world could be on the way soon.

Here is a look at the oil scheme from a United States lens. To help secure the release of five American prisoners in Iran, Washington relaxed its enforcement of sanctions on Iran, sanctions that were restored on Iran’s oil in 2018 after former President Donald Trump tore up a nuclear

deal negotiated under his predecessor Barack Obama.

Since then, according to Brusselsbased think tank Bruegel, Iran’s oil production has surged by 700,000 barrels per day this year. Could this be why Israel and the United States are watching Iran so keenly?

Remember I said earlier in this article that Palestine and Israel are not major oil giants, but their position geographically could pose a problem.

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway off Iran’s southern border through which 37% of global seaborne oil exports travel each day.

Now if groups like Hezbollah which is a Lebanese paramilitary group also backed by Tehran join this fight, this

could draw in bigger regional powers such as Iran and Saudi Arabia.

According to United States media, Lebanon’s Hezbollah militant group confirmed it launched attacks on three sites in the Shebaa Farms, a strip of land that sits at the intersection of the Lebanese Syrian border and the Golan Heights, which is occupied by Israel.

Now an intervention by Iran could potentially involve disruptions to the flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz, which can drive up oil prices. “That would be a complete game-changer for the oil market,” Falakshahi said.

“We wouldn’t see a 2% price spike; we’d see a 20% spike.” Let that sink in people!!

has been

PAGE 8

NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

“We’re struggling at the moment to stay fed, have a roof over our heads and gas in the car to get to work.”

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

I received an email from a member of our community sharing their displeasure with the article that I wrote about Justin Trudeau last week. The individual stated his thoughts about my work, and then went ahead and labeled me a Conservative.

Hah! I had to laugh at that part the most. Clearly the individual had not taken the time to read any of my work over the last few years, because if they had, they would see that I do not affiliate with any political party. As a journalist, I do my best to hold all levels of government accountable, and this article will not be any different.

Community, I see many of you shaking hands, laughing and taking selfies with our Prime Minister and other members of government, and my question is, are you aware that our country is in the middle of a crisis? I am wondering that in the midst of taking selfies, are there any questions being asked about how we are going to correct what is happening across our nation?

We are in a crisis Canada; indicators include the large-scale protests and demonstrations in major cities across the country, which indicates public dissatisfaction and unrest. Let’s talk about the increased incidents of civil disobedience, strikes, and clashes between different groups. Then there are the social disruptions: the rise in crime, and inadequate health care services, something I will get into in a few minutes.

We can’t leave out the fact that there is now limited freedom of press, censorship, and control of media outlets, which has restricted the flow of information. There is something that is not right, and it is only when it is presented as a whole will we truly understand that something needs to be done.

Canadians are dealing with severe financial challenges New federal data show a quarter of Canadians are struggling to make ends meet, and though pressure is easing gradually from a peak at the end of last year, Prairie provinces and marginalized communities nationwide are facing the worst of it.

The figures come from the latest results of the Canadian Social Survey, a quarterly study by Statistics Canada that tracks key quality-of-life indicators across the country. Survey participants were asked to rate the difficulty that their households faced in meeting their financial needs in the past year, and the results show widespread challenges in doing so.

The study highlighted that nationwide, 26.8% of Canadians reported that meeting financial needs had been difficult, or very difficult in the 12 months

prior, up from 24.5% in the second quarter of 2022 and after a peak of 34.8% at the end of last year -- the highest recorded since data was first collected in 2021.

In the second quarter of 2023, 26.8% of surveyed Canadians reported that their household needs were difficult or very difficult to meet financially.

Indigenous respondents to the survey living off-reserve reported the highest proportion of household financial challenges among demographic groups, with a striking 43.6% finding it difficult or very difficult to meet their needs.

These financial challenges have created a surge in food bank visits. At the beginning of the year a survey conducted by Second Harvest revealed that food banks across the country are expecting to see visits increase by 60% this year following a surge in demand in 2022.

The Toronto-based organization Second Harvest polled over 1,300 Canadian charities on their outlooks for 2023.

Last year Canada saw an uptick of 134% growth when it came to Canadians visiting food banks.

“It is a new year, but there is no resolution in sight for Canada’s food insecurity problem,” said Second Harvest CEO Lori Nikkel. “The end of Covid support, food inflation and flat wages are all contributing to increased reliance on food charity. Without systemic change, food insecurity will only get worse in Canada. More charitable food programs will not decrease food insecurity in Canada. More food charity is only treating the problem, not finding a solution.

In the long-term, individuals need government support like income regulation that’s indexed to inflation and solutions for affordable housing so that non-profit food programs are not needed in the first place.”

Pay for a mortgage; heck some can’t pay rent Surprise, surprise! Living in Ontario is more expensive than elsewhere in Canada, but new data has given insight into the astounding scope of how much harder it is to get by here than in other provinces. These numbers are courtesy of a new study from Westland Insurance, There are a handful of factors that are hurting our cost of living: including rent, car bills and appliance prices.

With residential real estate now at an average of $931,870 provincewide, and incomes at only $41,690, Westland also noted that first-time buyers in Ontario will take the longest to save for a home, with the yearly median income ranking fifth, covering just 4.5% of the median property price — over half the national average.

According to Toronto Regional Real Estate Board Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer, there are multiple factors that have contributed to today’s tight housing market, particularly in the GTA. Of the most pressing factors are high lending rates that hit in a short period of time and the rate of construction not keeping up with population growth over the past two decades.

That means not only is the prov-

ince behind on housing supply, but it also needs to overcompensate for the influx of newcomers that have arrived. It has not, and now the health of the: local, provincial and even national economy is at stake. “If people don’t feel comfortable with their ability to move to Canada and specifically the GTA ... they’re going to start to look elsewhere,” said Jason.

Let’s take a look at the darker side of the housing issue; homelessness.

Homelessness in Canada results from individual, structural, and systemic factors, including poverty, lack of affordable housing, mental illness, addiction, and other social and economic factors. Poverty and lack of affordable housing are often cited as significant contributing factors to homelessness in Canada. In many parts of the country, housing costs have risen faster than incomes, making it increasingly difficult for low-income individuals and families to find and maintain stable housing.

Homelessness significantly impacts health, with homeless individuals having a mortality rate four to five times higher than that of the general population. Homeless youth are particularly vulnerable, with approximately 6,000 to 7,000 youth experiencing homelessness on any night in Canada. Women who are homeless may face unique challenges, including a higher risk of violence and exploitation. Homelessness can also have economic impacts, with an estimated cost of up to $7 billion annually in emergency services, healthcare, and criminal justice costs.

Unaffordable housing contributes to homelessness, with nearly 1 in 5 Canadian households spending more than 50% of their income on housing.

The Government came back for their money When I heard about this, I was actually quite surprised. My community advisor Rayon Brown shared with me that members of his community had told him that CRA had sent them a letter letting them know that they had to pay back the CERB that they had received during the pandemic.

As pandemic measures shuttered thousands of workplaces in the spring of 2020, the government launched a program called the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), aimed at aiding Canadians who had lost their jobs or couldn’t work due to COVID-19. Those who qualified received $2,000 per month during the initial stage of the program.

Now, two years later, thousands of Canadians received letters informing them that they needed to pay at least some of the money back, with many being told they had been ineligible for CERB in the first place or received too much money. Many of those who received notice letters from the Canada Revenue Agency over the last few months told CTVNews.ca that they had no idea they would have to pay any of the benefit back, with some saying they are struggling to find the money.

In June 2022, CTVNews.ca asked Canadians who had received a letter telling them they owed money related

to CERB to share how this news was affecting them and their finances. They received more than 250 emails with many respondents noting their confusion and frustration.

More people are losing their jobs You may be unaware of the wave of layoffs last year, which left thousands of Canadian workers jobless, and it is continuing this year as recession predictions loom and the tech sector downturn deepens. The unemployment rate, at 5% remained unchanged from December 2022 to January 2023. By July 2023, the rate had increased slightly and was 5.5% Here are only a handful of the companies that have said goodbye to Canadian workers so far in 2023: • Best Buy: The consumer electronics retailer said it would be reducing its workforce by 0.7%, estimated to be about 700 employees, in January.

• Google: Canadian Google employees affected by a 12,000-person cut the tech goliath announced in midJanuary started being informed of their termination in early February.

• Scotiabank: The bank said in October that it would cut about three per cent of its global workforce as a result of changes in customers’ dayto-day banking preferences, as well as ongoing efforts to streamline operations.

• Telus Corp: The Vancouver telecommunications firm announced plans to slash 6,000 jobs in August, attributing the move to the “Evolving regulatory, competitive and macroeconomic environment.”

Our healthcare system is falling apart Did you know that half of Canadians do not have a primary care physician, or have difficulty securing a timely appointment with their current one?

A survey, released in August, 2023 by Angus Reid Institute and the Canadian Medical Association (CMA), found that one in five Canadians said they don’t have a family doctor. For those fortunate enough to have one, the struggle persists, as 29% of respondents said it was difficult to get an appointment.

Thirty-seven per cent of respondents said it usually takes a few days to get an appointment with their family doctor, while 15% said they get in right away.

This is a dramatic increase since 2019 when Statistics Canada estimated only 4.5 million people did not have a regular health care provider. Racialized people, those with lower incomes, and those in poor health were among those least likely to report having a regular primary care provider.

The average Canadian recognizes now that the health-care system is on its knees. The cracks in our system are not new and they do run far too deeply for any one solution or any one entity or any one jurisdiction to solve on their own.

What are your thoughts community? Are you happy with your life as a Canadian citizen? I would love to hear your thoughts.

NEWS

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 9

Members of Canada’s Philanthropic Community unite for the Jamrock Caribbean Nights Gala •

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

“All right! Edit’s done, I have to get out of here, I am so late!” I looked at the time and checked the eta on Google Maps. “35 minutes, okay not bad.” I slipped on a simple champagne silk dress, with some heels; “Good to go.”

I was on my way to the Palais Royale Ballroom for the Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation (HHJF) 17th edition of the ‘Jamrock’ - Caribbean Nights-themed Gala. This year the event was held on Friday October 20th, and from what I heard, this was the gala to be at.

As I stepped into the Palais, I was first caught up by the beauty of the venue; crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a soft, warm glow over the attendees.

Some notable individuals that were said to be in attendance include:

• • • • • •

Honourable Daryl Vaz (MP, Minister of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport) Kurt Davis (Consulate General of Jamaica) Jay Martin (Event Emcee, Comedian, Morning show radio host, former JUNO award winner) Bruce Croxon (Former CBC’s Dragons’ Den, partner at Round13 Capital, HHJF Board Member) Karl Hale (HHJF Founder, Chairman and National Bank Open TournamentO Mark Josephs (President of Kisko Products and HHJF Board Natasha Borota (President, The It Factor Ltd. Event Organizer)

The tables were meticulously arranged with pristine white linens, polished silverware, and sparkling crystal glasses, and the air was filled with the enchanting aroma of culinary delightfulness, mingled with the subtle scent of expensive perfumes and colognes. Lover’s Rock was playing in the background, setting a mood of old school Jamaican sophistication and refinement.

Waitstaff circulated the room, offering trays of delectable desserts prepared

by renowned chefs. The ambiance: an air of sophistication and camaraderie, and guests mingled and engaged in stimulating conversations.

Hosted by “Canada’s Renaissance Man” Jay Martin, the event brought Canada’s philanthropic community together to support the foundation’s annual school build and school meal program, benefiting Jamaica’s most vulnerable children and youth.

Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation was established in June of 2005, where Karl Hale brought forward a concept of supporting his native Jamaica. Since inception, Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation has assisted in improving the lives of the next generation of Jamaicans and their communities by creating a world-class education system through, investment in infrastructure, resource materials and expertise. The Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation has raised over two million dollars and built 26 schools thanks to their generous sponsors and donors.

Always outdoing themselves, this year, the foundation introduced its Great Jamaica Auction, which features a diverse array of auction items that range from restaurant vouchers and in-demand event tickets to world-class villas in the Caribbean and everything in between. Over 100 items were avail-

able for bidding online and it culminated on the night of the Gala.

The foundation has recently achieved a significant milestone by completing its 26th school build project in Jamaica.

In July, over 20 Canadian volunteers teamed up with HHJF’ s local implementing partner, to construct The Orange Bay Infant School in Portland, Jamaica.

The foundation’s schools have become beacons of hope, offering children a safe and welcoming environment to learn and develop to their full potential. By: alleviating overcrowding, improving sanitation, and enhancing security, these schools meet each community’s unique needs. Thanks to the generosity of HHJF’ s supporters and donors, these schools create positivity that extends far beyond the classroom, inspiring and empowering generations to come.

As the gala drew to a close, guests left with a sense of fulfillment and a treasure trove of memories. The Jamrock Caribbean Nights Gala is not just an event; it was a magical experience that l know has left a lasting imprint on the hearts and minds of all who attend, reminding them of the beauty of life’s grand celebrations.

Solid Rock Family Services offers transitional home to biopic youth in the Hamilton area PAUL JUNOR paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Solid Rock Family Services is geared to impact the lives of youth in the Greater Toronto/Hamilton Area. They are a registered non-profit service and child welfare corporation that offers holistic counseling, coaching, training, and mentoring services and programs that help to educate, heal and transform individuals and families.

It was founded in 2021 by Moy Fung who serves as its Executive Director. Her bio describes her as: an entrepreneur, professional speaker and coach committed to developing and facilitating transformational programs. Areas of focus include emotional wellness, personal development, child welfare, family success, redressing anti-Black/ systemic racism and promoting the advance-

ment of empathy working organizations and societies. In addition, for over 17 years, Moy has been creating social change through community advocacy and entrepreneurship, economic development and empowerment of: men, women and youth of African descent.

One of the initiatives that Solid Rock Family Services launched is its first Transitional Home in Hamilton on Wednesday, March 29th, 2023. According to information provided on their GoFundMe campaign it will be a place where they will provide a clean, warm, and stable home, a supportive community, and a loving and nurturing environment for our young people to thrive.

It will be geared to a specific demographic of the population which in “Answering the Call to a Social Need” research reveals some interesting statistics. It shows that “30% to 50 % of youth who leave foster care will face massive challenges: obtaining affordable housing, adequate employment, mental health support, and life skills development to succeed in a volatile society. In addition, this place of safety and security for young individuals aged 16 to 39 will be one which provides assistance to young people dealing with: homelessness, addiction and mental health challenges.

Solid Rock Family Services will provide holistic support to these youth involving a team of culturally appropriate support workers. Through a team approach, they will provide a range of programs such as: • • • • • • •

24-hour on-site staff support (two staff each shift) Mental/emotional support Academic advising & higher educational support Job search skills training (resume writing, interview skills, etc) Financial education & planning Healthy meals and snacks Toiletries & personal hygiene products

They will access support such as: • • • •

Advocacy/early intervention/preventive support Overcoming personal and systemic barriers Elevating mental, emotional and economic wellness Mentoring the family structure

Solid Rock Family Services describes itself as an equitable organization with a special-

ized focus on Black and other marginalized communities with the goal of reducing the Black representation in the child welfare system and providing transitional housing and support for those individuals. Their aim is to provide individuals and families with the: tools, resources, and support systems that are proactive in: transforming, empowering and equipping them to end negative cycles and heal generational trauma.

On Friday September 22nd, 2023, Solid Rock Family Services held a fundraising event to raise approximately $20,000 toward the home. It describes a funding objective that will aid us in the first months to pay overhead costs and develop and deliver transformational programs and resources within a one-to-three-year transitional model in order to provide youth with quality support and to position them for future success.

This fundraising was a “Level Up” Professional Mixer and Fundraising with two main goals: to support a crucial cause and provide encouragement, inspiration to those of us who wake up every day to fight for the life we desire. It’s evening where we can draw inspiration and ignite the passion within us to drive in our next season and final quarter of the year.

PAGE 10

NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

There is a lot of excitement about what is happening in St. Vincent and the Grenadines SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

St. Vincent and the Grenadines is undeniably one of the most beautiful destinations in the Caribbean. This small island nation, located in the Lesser Antilles of the Eastern Caribbean Sea, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture.

The country boasts numerous beautiful beaches with powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Some of the famous ones include Macaroni Beach, Princess Margaret Beach, and Lower Bay Beach.

The Grenadines, a chain of small islands and cays, are incredibly picturesque. Each island has its own unique charm, from the luxurious Mustique to the laid-back Bequia and the Tobago Cays, which are known for their coral reefs and marine life.

The beauty of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is not just in its landscapes, but also in its people. The locals are known for their warmth and friendliness, making visitors feel welcome and at home. The country’s beauty is also reflected in its cultural heritage. Visitors can explore historical sites like: Fort Charlotte, Indigenous Carib petroglyphs, and vibrant local markets where they can experience the rich cultural tapestry of the islands.

To top it off, the islands have some of the most mesmerizing sunsets you’ll ever witness. The combination of the Caribbean Sea, the horizon dotted with islands, and the fading sun creates a magical atmosphere, one that is now being offered to us in Canada and will be welcomed now that it is getting cold, Brrrrr!

On Tuesday October 17th, 2023, the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited to The Solarium located in The Boulevard Club (1491 Lakeshore Blvd) by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority (SVGTA), who were in Toronto to reconnect with the destination’s Canadian friends.

It was a beautiful day, and the ambiance of the room spoke to the unusually warm fall day. There were: freshly baked pastries, exotic fruits, artisanal cheeses, smoked

salmon, and made-to-order omelets. Yum! Once I had filled my plate, I took my seat, and eagerly awaited the upcoming announcements.

The incredible updates were delivered by the Honourable Carlos James, Esq. MP, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development and Culture. “All the travel agents are buzzing, because they’re excited about what is happening in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. We’re really about sustainable tourism, and what we’re building on is a special product that is going to show the value of the cultural experience, on top of the natural beauty,” said Minister James.

The destination’s growing partnership with Air Canada is proving worthwhile for winter travellers. They will recommence nonstop flights to the destination on October 30th, 2023, three times weekly on: Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays. Service will ramp up to four times weekly starting December 11th, 2023, with Tuesdays added to the schedule until the end of the winter season. There was discussion, and push, for year-round flights, but this decision is currently undecided and will depend, understandably, on how the route performs.

There is also momentous excitement about the new Sandals Saint Vincent

and the Grenadines, set to open in Saint Vincent on March 27th, 2024, complete with over-water villas. Bookings for the 301-room property opened just over two weeks ago and advanced sales are looking very strong so far. Almost 80% of keys are Club and Butler accommodations, with the rest being in the Luxury category.

“We’re so excited as a brand to be in Saint Vincent. One of the things that amazes us about this destination is that it’s all about sustainability, and we’re also embracing the local culture,” said Maureen Barnes-Smith, VP Sales & Marketing, Unique Vacations Canada.

“Watch, from a trade perspective, for an announcement for exclusive trips early next year that will bring hundreds of travel partners into the destination,” she added. “Once they experience it, they will be as excited as we are to sell the destination. Our feature of the month for January will be Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.”

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority provided not only a delightful gastronomic experience, but also a chance to learn more about the beautiful island; looks like it is time for me to take a trip.

“Prostate Cancer Survivorship: Enjoying Life Beyond Treatment.”

Walnut Foundation hosts free annual health conference PAUL JUNOR paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The Walnut Foundation has been very busy in the many initiatives, programs and services that they have undertaken since its inception. One of its signature events that they have been running for the past few years is their Annual Health Conference, which will be held on October 28th, 2023. It will be available online and accessible through the Zoom platform to those who are registered.

The theme for the conference will be “Prostate Cancer Survivorship: Enjoying Life Beyond Treatment.”

This year’s conference will bring together leading experts in the world who are knowledgeable in how best to treat prostate cancer and subsequent follow-up. The conference will focus on issues related to the

maintenance of health, wellness and wellbeing of men who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer and are concerned about how best to stay healthy. Issues such as: incontinence, erectile dysfunction, mental and emotional wellness and sexuality and relationships will be front and centre of the conference.

The topics that will be presented are: • • • • •

Sexual Health After Prostate Cancer- Dr. Daniela Wittmann and Dr. Andrew Matthew The Diet Question Everyone is Asking Dr. Stacy Loeb Overcoming Incontinence - Nelly Fagnani, Pelvic Health Physiotherapist Exercise as a Component of Living a Quality Life- Dr. Daniel Santa Mina How is Movember Tackling Prostate Cancer Survivorship - Dr. Mike Fraser

Anthony Henry, President of The Walnut Foundation states, “This conference aims to equip men and their partners with the tools to ensure better health outcomes pre-diagnosis, while in treatment and post-treatment.

Ken Noel, Executive Director of The Walnut

Foundation spoke to what he has observed, “Men have suffered in silence after a prostate cancer treatment and this conference is designed to provide the solutions to overcoming the challenges and enjoying life.”

On Saturday, September 30th, a free prostate cancer testing clinic was offered by the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in partnership with the Walnut Foundation at the TAIBU Community Health Centre. The press release issued on Wednesday September 13th, 2023, states that this community outreach clinic aims to reduce inequities in health care by providing free PSA testing to men in Black communities who are at a higher risk of prostate cancer but may lack access to these services. Aside from the free PSA testing the clinic will educate and raise awareness about the inequities and increased risk Black men face in early diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer.

This was the first stop of the PSA: Detect and Protect mobile clinic’s journey across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). There are plans underway for many other community health centres in the GTA to provide free PSA screening in neighbourhoods where there is a high percentage of African-Canadians men who have a higher degree of risk.

The promotional press release outlines the higher risk that Black men are inclined to face. It notes, “Black populations have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer and are more likely to see more severe diseases at a younger age. While researchers are continuing to understand why, it is thought that Black men may be genetically predisposed to prostate cancer as well as face social barriers that affect access to health care, PSA: Detect and Protect aims to address these inequalities through outreach, education and action.”

When I arrived at the TAIBU Community Health Centre there were about ten men present in the lobby. There was much camaraderie and friendliness demonstrated by the man as they waited to get their blood drawn for the PSA test. There were free haircuts, free shaves and snacks available for the men to have. In the background, there were 16 clip educational videos being played.

These videos were intended to be part of continuing the education and call to action on prostate cancer.

Anyone interested in finding out about The Walnut Foundation can check out their website thewalnutfoundation.com

NEWS

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 11

Many Canadians do not know enough about heart disease and stroke SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

On October 18th, 2023, at 5:00 a.m. ET, Heart and Stroke released new survey data revealing many Canadians do not know enough about heart disease and stroke, putting their own and their loved ones’ health at risk. The survey shows that despite one in two Canadians having been personally touched by heart disease and stroke, there is little understanding around risk factors, signs and symptoms and what to do if faced with a serious medical emergency.

Heart disease and stroke are prevalent health concerns in the Caribbean community, and there are several factors that contribute to the high rates of these diseases in the Caribbean population, including: genetic predisposition, unhealthy lifestyle choices, limited access to healthcare, and socioeconomic factors.

Traditional Caribbean diets can be high in fried and fatty foods, salt, and sugar, which can contribute to high blood pressure and obesity, both risk factors for heart disease and stroke. This along with a sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity can lead to obesity and other cardiovascular problems.

Some ethnic groups in the Caribbean, such as those of African descent, have a higher genetic predisposition to conditions like hypertension and diabetes, which are risk factors for heart disease and stroke.

Below are some of the key survey findings that are important for you to be aware of: • • •

•

1 in 3 Canadians do not understand that cardiac arrest and heart attack are different conditions.

1 in 3 Canadians do not know that the signs of heart attack can be different in women.

Almost 1 in 3 Canadians mistakenly think if they witness someone having a stroke, they should immediately drive them to the nearest hospital as quickly as possible. (This misconception is dangerous – the recommendation is to call 9-1-1 immediately. An ambulance will get you to the best hospital for stroke care and lifesaving treatment the second you call 9-1-1.)

1 in 3 Canadians think it’s difficult to recognize the signs of stroke if you’re not a trained healthcare professional.

(Everyone can and should learn the signs of stroke. FAST is an easy way to remember the most common signs.

FAST stands for Face – is it drooping?

Arms – can you raise both? Speech – is it slurred or jumbled? And Time – to call 9-1-1 right away.

What we don’t know can hurt us when it comes to heart and brain health. Heart dis-

ease and stroke touches half of Canadians, but knowledge is lacking.

“The impact of heart disease and stroke on individuals and their loved ones is enormous. There are more than 3.5 million people in Canada living with these conditions and they are the second leading cause of death,” says Doug Roth, CEO, Heart & Stroke. “Yet there is a serious lack of understanding around different conditions, what they look like, the causes and the effects they can have, including life-threatening consequences.

More needs to be done to raise awareness across the country.”

•

According to the Heart & Stroke poll: •

•

•

1 in 3 Canadians do not understand that cardiac arrest and heart attack are different conditions. Cardiac arrest is often referred to as an electrical problem and it means the heart has suddenly and unexpectedly stopped beating. Heart attack is often referred to as a plumbing problem of the heart; the blood flow to the heart is slowed or blocked.

1 in 3 Canadians do not know that the signs of heart attack can be different in women. The most common heart attack sign is chest pain, but women may experience shortness of breath, pressure or pain in the lower chest or abdomen, dizziness, upper back pressure, or extreme fatigue. Unfortunately, half of women who experience heart attacks have their symptoms go unrecognized.

1 in 3 Canadians do not know that

•

most people who have a cardiac arrest outside of hospital do not survive. In fact, 90% who have an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest do not survive. Doing CPR and using an AED can double the chance of survival. Cardiac arrest can strike anyone at any age, without warning.

7 in 10 Canadians do not understand the risk factors for heart disease and stroke. They mistakenly think that family history/genetics is the biggest risk factor for heart disease and stroke. The reality is high blood pressure is the number one risk factor for stroke and a major risk factor for heart disease, and up to 80% of premature heart disease and stroke can be prevented.

1 in 3 Canadians do not know that most people who have a stroke are left with some level of stroke-related disability. About 60% of people who have had a stroke are left with some level of stroke-related disability and more than 40% of people who have a stroke are left with moderate to severe disability. Effects of stroke can be both physical and mental.

Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach, including public health campaigns to promote healthy lifestyles, improving access to healthcare services, and focusing on education to raise awareness about the risk factors associated with heart disease and stroke. Additionally, encouraging and supporting research into the genetic factors involved can also lead to better prevention and treatment strategies tailored to the Caribbean population.

Scientists should concentrate on providing us solutions to our many problems, especially those with mind blowing consequences •

STEVEN KASZAB steven@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

According to the Economist, our scientific community has been studying processes that will slow our human aging. Serious research indeed. “Humanity has had the fear of death upon them for far too long and providing a solution to humanity’s dilemma seems far,” said Dr. Caroline Hope of the United Nations Library/Scientific division.

Money is rolling in from all avenues to study, research and begin human trials directed by governments, corporations and agencies. The United Nations estimate that costs of these trials will amount to over a trillion dollars by 2050. The corporation that finds, develops the masterful pill that can end in some way the fear of aging will become the most prestigious and wealth corporation on the planet.

The marketplace for such drugs will be massive, with all the socio-political influence that would go with it.

The World Economic Forum believes by 2060 there will be more 40-yearolds on the planet than 15-year-olds. Corporations are studying this eventuality examining certain points of interest like.

• • • •

Hiring retired workers to become trainers Redefining the corporate ladder Designing products with older consumers in mind Recruiting older workers and making benefits work for them Communicate with the elderly without preaching

Entirely new industries and the expansion of many will happen, as the elderly will no longer go off to the pastures in retirement, or be unwanted, but society finds a constructive and useful place for them.

Less young people, more active elderly seem to create a problem that needs to be looked at.

Our planet’s population will continue to grow, since elderly people still have sex and have children. Wondering how this longevity of life and sexuality/ childbirth will work out? The earth can only house so many people, and if many are energetic elders, how will the planet’s leaders save the planet while allowing most people to live reasonable lives?

Science Fiction presented many methods, such as in the movie Soylent Green where procedures were demanding to control the population. Unruly poor folk were arrested in masses and taken away to be killed and turned into a protein source named Soylent Green.

Elderly were required at a certain age to go to pleasure dooms, to end their lives in pleasurable ways. Human bodies were no longer buried, but sent for disposal, and actually turned into fertilizer.

Think about the situation at hand if science makes the breakthrough it needs to end or control aging. Less people are dying while the population continues to grow. Not a very good equation for anyone, except perhaps the wealthy among us.

Imagine what the price tag will be for the aging process to end? Whether a procedure or a pill, it will only be available for the wealthy, powerful and those who protect them. Why am I so negative?

Well, I look at all things not wearing rosecoloured glasses. I am hopeful for humanity, but if I was a gambler, I’d never bet our leaders would do what is right, but only what benefits them.

So, Big Pharma continues studying how to make gold from pills, the leadership of our world ignores the oncoming horror show that has started with population overloading, our economies and will continue until decisions will have to be made with questions like “live and let live, or live and let die” asked of our fellow citizens?

The problem of overpopulation may very well turn our governments into death dealers who of course will pass these decisions onto our healthcare providers, having to decide triage style who will cost too much to help, who is too sick, and who can be saved. From there our government will make self and planned euthanasia easier to achieve. Perhaps our borders will close to keep out those globally poor and destitute future candidates for Soylent Green processes. We already have wholesale slaughter and organ har-

vesting believed to be going on in China and Asia proper. These ideas are not farfetched at all.

Will our scientific community suggest mass sterilization as an option?

We do it to cats and dogs! The horrors of the Nazi’s return as a possible master race upheld by their wealth rule over us.

A racial/financial reversal happens where former colonial peoples outnumber their former rulers.

Our earth is overpopulated now, where entire communities cannot feed their citizens properly. We are running out of space to bury our dead, care for our ill and dementia-stricken populations. We try to help the homeless, nationless, poverty-stricken hoard, but the band aids we apply annually fall off their multiple wounds. Millions are homeless, encamped and being radicalized. It is as it has been for a long time, just getting worse with the passage of time.

“Cancer is nothing more than a healthy cell that starts replicating itself uncontrollably,” A writer, one Dan Brown said. If you consider overpopulation likened to that uncontrollable replicating cell, you realize what needs to be done.

Cancer is treated, and often cut out of the body before it has progressed too far. Has our earth gone too far?

Instead of making our lives longer, perhaps scientists could concentrate on providing us solutions to our many problems, especially those with mind blowing consequences.

PAGE 12

NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Very few illegal vaccine mandate cases are being tried on their merits SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

This is an update from March 2023. More than 100 “first responders” from Ontario (police, medical, firefighters, etc.) filed a lawsuit against the Ontario Government and their respective organizations. It sought over $100 million in damages.

For context, it’s important to know the history. Originally, there was an application filed back in April 2021 on behalf of a number of Ontario police officers. This case was heavily promoted, and donations solicited, from a group called Police on Guard.

Police on Guard are a group of active duty and retired police officers who have assembled to create a haven of truth and justice for all members of law enforcement and the public. Over the past year, they share with the public that they have seen the foundation of our country irreversibly damaged. They asked that all active-duty of-

ficers carefully consider the legislation they are imposing and analyze all information surrounding this Public Health emergency with an open and critical mind. It’s interesting that P.O.G. was never listed as a client, despite their public role.

That case sat idly for several months — as always — before the next version came out. Now, the case is still considered active, and no one bothered to tell the public that this application wasn’t being pursued. It’s unclear if any of the donor money was ever returned.

Worth noting; there was an April 2021 Application from Children’s Health Defense (Canada). It also appears that it’s not being pursued, and nothing has been publicly announced about returning donations.

The next iteration was by a group called Take Action Canada. This was more broadly to challenge the vaccine passports that were being implemented in the Fall of 2021. Although the clients’ livelihoods made this case urgent, nothing was actually filed until March 2023. That’s right, it took approximately a year and a half from the time the suit was being organized, until the time a Statement of Claim was filed in Ontario Superior Court. Clearly, there is no urgency whatsoever in getting this done.

What was the product? A rehash of

filings from British Columbia and the Federal Court that had already been thrown out as “bad beyond argument”. People who had been forced from their professions were paying retainer fees for copies of pleadings previously tossed, and more than once.

An Amended Statement of Claim was filed. It pleaded for some specific details for 35 of the Plaintiffs. The likely reason for doing this was to address criticisms from earlier cases that the claims lacked facts and background information. However, the Amended Claim also stated that “Particulars would be provided later.” This likely won’t sit well with the Court, as Defendants are entitled to know the case against them.

The City of Hamilton filed a Notice of Intent to Defend. Note, this is not the same thing as filing a Defence. It’s just a short statement that they intend to do so.

According to a recent response from the Court Registry, no actual defences have been filed, nor are there any hearings scheduled. In other words, it’s just another dead-end case.

Should things progress, there are a few major problems to contend with: •

First: the Plaintiffs mostly (if not entirely) are/were unionized employees,

•

•

•

which means there’s a requirement to go through the grievance process. This typically ends in arbitration. While there are limited ways to argue around this, this document falls far short of that.

Second: as with similar cases, this one is pleaded so poorly that it’s likely to get struck due to its incomprehensible and incoherent nature. While not fatal, it will be another significant delay.

Third: given that it took so long to even get a case filed, the Defendants are likely to argue that the issues are “moot” (as in no longer relevant).

Fourth: even if some of the Plaintiffs were to seek out a new lawyer and file a new case, the Statute of Limitations — typically 2 years — will prevent them from refiling.

This case was announced two years ago and hasn’t gotten past the pleadings stage. This is comparable with Vaccine Choice Canada’s 2020 suit, which was dormant for 2 1/2 years before a Motion to Strike was brought. That will be heard January 30th February 1st 2024.

Again, few of these cases are being tried on the merits. They are being struck or dismissed because they aren’t written in an intelligible way or have fatal defects.

Howard Education Fund launched to honour the life and legacy of Bishop Dr. Shawn Howard PAUL JUNOR paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

There was an incredible turnout of over 1,000 individuals on Saturday, September 23rd, at Praise Cathedral Worship Centre in Mississauga to celebrate the legacy of Bishop Dr. Shawn Howard. The untimely passing of the: pastor, teacher, minister and bishop on Sunday August 26th, 2023, left an indelible impression on those who knew him personally. There were many words of tributes from friends, loved ones, members of the clergy and family members who celebrated the immense legacy, incredible life and mission dedicated to fulfilling the spiritual call and divine purpose of his life as an ambassador and agent of God’s love.

He was committed to spreading the love of

God to everyone.

The celebration of Bishop Howard’s life opened with songs of praise and worship by Pastor Richard Brown of Kingsway Christian Centre in Toronto. The songs were celebratory in nature, emotionally riveting and spiritually uplifting. There was a moving musical selection by singer Londa Larmond, and it all reminded me of being in an evangelistic service where the worship team engaged in melodious rendition of many popular songs in an: upbeat, lively, rhythmic, exciting and empowering manner.

Bishop Dr. Kwame Gilbert (Pastor of Kitchener Church of God in Ontario) officiated the funeral. He skillfully introduced the different ministers and officials who gave special tributes to Bishop Shawn Howard. Many of the ministers knew him personally from his early days in the ministry and subsequent rise up the denominational ladder to the position of Bishop in the Church of God in Ontario (COGIO).

There were reflections from his cousin, Shane Holder. He states, “Shawn was an inspiration to us and a: caring, lov-

ing, compassionate, straight to the point individual.” There was the opening prayer

by Bishop Nigel Ricketts. Tributes were expressed by Bishop Dr. Lennox Walker, the spiritual father of Shawn, Bishop George Peart and Dr. Canute Blake. Laura Wilson shared her time working with him at Yonge Street Mission in Toronto.

There was an informative obituary that was available on the New Haven Funeral Centre’s website: https://newhavenfuneralcentre.com highlighting Bishop Shawn’s life. It read, “He was a loving and devoted: husband, father, son, brother, uncle and cousin. Bishop Dr. Shawn will be greatly missed by his many extended family, fellow Ministers, Evanston Church of God congregation (Illinois), many affiliated church communities, and dear friends.

The family appreciates all of your prayers and kind gestures during this very difficult time.”

Dr. Shawn became a licensed minister at age 25 years of age and wrote his exhorter on August 19th ,2002. He was ordained on May 23rd, 2007, and became a Bishop five years later on June 3rd, 2013.

He co-founded and was the lead pastor of Life Changers Church, which he led from September 2007 to May 2022. “Love God, Love People, and Love the World,” was the motto of the church. He later became the lead pastor of Evanston Church Of God in Illinois in May 2022. He experienced a double stroke in 2020 but recuperated.

His home subsequently experienced a devastating fire, which destroyed most of his material possessions. In spite of these unfortunate circumstances, his faith did not waver, and he continued to trust God. There were deeply emotionally and touching reflections from his children: Jordan, Caleb and Malachi and his wife Caleen. Jordan described him as the best father in the world and a great role model.

Caleb mentioned the word, “Apricity” as a fitting description meaning, “The warmth of the sun and winter.” Jordan describes what it means to be personally connected to her father. Caleen states that he lived life to the fullest and loved people along the way.

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

NEWS

All in a day’s work; Hip Hop don’t stop in Toronto thanks to Team Supreme Genes SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

“I don’t want to do this shit anymore,” he said angrily. “I swear, this is my last time doing this.”

I was speaking with the one and only Lord Fury; he was expressing his frustration surrounding the upcoming Styles P concert that he was putting on October 12th, 2023. As I listened to him, he reminded me of my parents who every year tell me that they are not ever going to do their summer garden, and as you can guess, every year I see them buy their seeds, buy manure, and start their garden.

I completely get his frustration, from what he had shared, it took quite a bit of work to put on the incredible productions that I have had a chance to experience time and time again. Coordinating the schedules of multiple artists, especially if they are indemand (Ghostface Killah, Killah Priest) and have busy touring schedules, can be incredibly challenging. Aligning everyone’s availability on the same date can be a logistical nightmare.

Then he has to choose an appropriate venue, ensuring that it has the right

acoustics, capacity, and facilities. Hip-hop concerts often require venues with excellent sound systems to ensure the music and lyrics are clear and powerful. They also often involve complex technical setups, including sound systems, lighting, and special effects. Ensuring that all technical aspects run smoothly and are synchronized with the artists’ performances is essential for a successful concert.

Thankfully, Lord Fury has an extensive network, so he is able to effectively promote the concert to his target audience. He has to budget the numerous expenses, including artist fees, venue rental, equipment, and marketing. He is great at maintaining good relationships with the performing artists, because he is a man of his word. He fulfills their contractual obligations, provides necessary accommodations, and ensures they have a positive experience, which is why he is able to bring such amazing acts to the city.

Then of course, there is the night of the event where Fury ensures that he creates an engaging and memorable experience for the audience. It is a lot of work, but somehow, Fury makes it look easy. This time, it was all about Styles P, a man that throughout his 29-year music career has become a prominent voice of the streets.

Many of us remember him as a member of The LOX alongside his Yonkers brethren Jadakiss and Sheek Louch. Even though they all went on their own musical journey’s they have all seen success in their own right.

Styles P continues to reach people through his music, and on October 12th, his devoted

Toronto fan base proved that they still love him.

Once again, this concert displayed the power of Hip Hop. It has the power to evoke a wide range of emotions and has become an integral part of Toronto cultural expression. Hip Hop brings people together and transcends language barriers. It is a music that can be understood and appreciated by people from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Guess what Toronto? Even though he said he was getting tired of it, Fury is at it again. This time Conway the Machine is here on November 1st, 2023, for the “Won’t He Do It” Tour. That’s right; make your way down to The Opera House, 735 Queen St East, Toronto. There will be special surprise guests from New York, Toronto’s own Asun Eastwood, Music by DJ Mercilless, and of course it will be hosted by the one and only Lord Fury.

Are you ready for an unforgettable night of pure hip-hop greatness? Doors open at 7 p.m., so be sure to arrive early to secure your spot in the crowd. The show will keep you grooving until 11 p.m., leaving you with memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Tickets are available exclusively on Eventbrite, so don’t wait! Click the link in our bio to grab your tickets now. This is your chance to witness a hip-hop legend in action, surrounded by incredible talents and the best vibes Toronto has to offer. Get ready for a night of unforgettable music, incredible energy, and a whole lot of surprises!

The old Hegelian Dialectic Scam at work; Create a problem, then find the cure groups were as follows:

MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

It has been revealed that in 1860 a German surgeon named Karl Thiersch was the first person to prove that cancer spread through malignant cells, and the Roman physician Celsus was the first to translate the word into the Latin word “cancer.

From back then until the presentday: chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other ways to treat cancer have all been tried, but there has not been a cure and these treatments were all optional, no one is forced, nor has ever lost their job for not taking chemo.

There have also been thousands of studies done in the medical department, and patients have spent their life savings trying to stay alive, yet not a cure.

AIDS-Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome was first identified in the United States in 1981. However, HIV was propagating in the country before that.

We were led to believe that HIV-1, the most common form of the virus, spread from chimpanzees to humans on the Continent of Africa as is usually the case in most diseases, according to Western media and scientists. Anthony Fauci would be able to shed some more light on this subject.

In March of 1983 the CDC –Center for Disease Control declared that certain groups were at increased risk for HIV. These

• • • •

People with hemophilia, who received contaminated blood through transfusions.

Homosexual men, who reported higher incidences of the condition.

Heroin users and other people who use injectable drugs.

Haitians or people of Haitian origin, as many cases of AIDS were reported in Haiti.

In September 1985, President Ronald Reagan called AIDS research “a top priority” for his administration. In 1995, President Bill Clinton hosted the first White House Conference on HIV and AIDS and called for a vaccine research center. This center later opened in 1999.

Even though AIDS at its peak killed more than 49,000 Americans due to its complications, they have not yet developed a vaccine to cure this monster. What’s more shocking is that no one was ever asked to show proof of AIDS treatment before they could board a plane or enter a restaurant. Remember we were told it can spread by blood and or saliva?

My search for truth has now landed me on the diabetes trail, follow me as I look for a cure. Diabetes happens when the body does not produce enough insulin, or use it appropriately, leading to high levels of sugar in the blood. Since the 1920’s, scientists have been using insulin to treat this ailment, however, there is still no cure for this disease.

Over 3,000 years ago, the ancient Egyptians noticed a condition that appears to have been type 1 diabetes. Its symptoms were excessive urination, thirst, and weight loss.

We have looked at three deadly

diseases so far, and no matter how much research is done, Big Pharma has not been able to cough up a cure. I wonder why?

Now let’s look at the deadliest one of them all, disease number four-COVID-19.

This so-called disease raised its ugly head in early 2020 and with literally no research and within a few short months, a cure was found by four, or more of the big pharma companies.

They all lied about testing this product, lied about its efficacy, and lied about the poisonous and deadly effects of this experimental gene-altering bioweapon, which they forced on humanity.

The planners of this product were caught on video discussing how they were going to circumvent the normal protocol of a vaccine.

With a track record like that, it is safe to say that these so-called vaccines were prepared months if not years in advance, just waiting for the puzzle pieces to fall into place.

We saw the old Hegelian dialectic scam at work, create a problem, then find the cure.

Let us think rationally for a moment, why is everyone who speaks out about vaccinated people dying suddenly censored?

Why are “nongovernmental narrative” news articles banned from social media especially Facebook in Canada? Why are doctors still pushing this so-called vaccine on their patients, after all these deaths? Why did Bill Gates say, “We can control the earth’s population if we do a good job on vaccines?” Why can’t Canadian doctors prescribe Ivermectin and Hydroxychloroquine for their patients?

Which head of government is heavily invested in a certain vaccine company?

Think about it, is your government hiding something?

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PAGE 14

NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Building a strong immune system isn’t rocket science; Missing messages in infection prevention W. GIFFORDJONES MD DIANA GIFFORD-JONES TC HEALTH REPORTER

Influenza, or the flu, is on the rise this time of year. That’s because the virus spreads easily when people are indoors in close contact and when the air is less humid and colder. So, it makes sense that International Infection Prevention Week takes place in October, but what doesn’t make sense is the absence of an important message.

Public health officials offer a standard list of best practices to reduce the risk of infections. Hand hygiene is top of the list. It’s a fact that many people don’t wash their hands after using the toilet, but they will clutch their mobile phones, which never get washed, before, during and after trips to the toilet. Hands and phones are

both common vehicles for the transmission of microorganisms from one person to another.

Use of cleaners and disinfectants is another recommendation. It’s been said that “Cleanliness is next to godliness,” and that’s true to a point, but don’t forget that valuable life lessons come from embracing the messiness and imperfections of our human experience.

What about vaccinations? It’s on the list as it should be. From: measles, mumps, and rubella, to typhoid and polio, vaccinations have saved millions of lives.

If you have doubts, don’t rely on one expert’s opinion. Do your research. Read widely. Vaccines are a vital part of our toolkit for fighting infections.

COVID migrated personal protective equipment from the surgical theatre into public settings, and PPE is now a familiar acronym. We’ve learned new respiratory etiquette, too. Get that elbow in place for a sneeze, then bring out the hand sanitize in a show of extra effort!

Infections can be transmitted in hospitals, assisted living residences, and in

kitchens everywhere – on medical instruments, in food, and in the air. Following safety instructions is crucial to minimize risk, especially for vulnerable people, but what’s the missing message?

Never neglect the importance of building and maintaining a robust immune system. Why is the message to strengthen natural defenses so frequently overshadowed?

There is nothing in comparison to the sophistication with which the body naturally sorts bacterial and viral friends from foe. A strong, natural immune response is an excellent defence against the flu and other common infections. Evolved over millennia to keep us safe, the immune system is a remarkable network of cells, tissues, and organs working together to protect the body from harmful invaders.

Building a strong immune system isn’t rocket science. You need a well-balanced diet rich in: fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains that provide the essential nutrients for immune function. Vitamin C, vitamin D, magnesium, and zinc are known to bolster immunity,

but you need high doses of C, to keep cells primed for a fight, on the order of 1,000 mg a couple of times a day. Higher doses are needed in the moment of crisis when the fight is on against powerful combatants.

There are other important steps.

Exercise promotes circulation of immune cells and enhances the body’s defense mechanisms. Staying hydrated is crucial.

Quality sleep is essential for immune system restoration and function. Research suggests that emotional well-being has a beneficial impact on immune function too.

By contrast, chronic stress suppresses the immune system. If you feel under pressure, get into meditation, yoga, and deep breathing. If your gut is out of whack, your immune system probably is too. Consume probiotic-rich foods or take supplements. It goes without saying that smokers must quit, and alcohol use should be moderate or not at all.

It’s ironic that health authorities don’t share this message. We’d have better infection prevention if they did.

Class action lawsuit launched against Toronto Police Service over carding PAUL JUNOR paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The practice of “carding” has been very controversial with diverse views on it.

It occurs when people are subjected to interrogation by law enforcement officials without any explanation or justification.

The Black Legal Action Centre (BLAC) was established in 2017 as an independent not-for-profit community legal clinic that combats individual and systemic antiBlack racism by conducting: research, engaging in structural transformation, and providing legal services. They have been part of the class action lawsuit against The Toronto Police Service (TPA).

It was filed by Ayaan Farah, who is of Somalian background and has no prior criminal records. The statement of claim was filed on Monday, August 14th,

2023, and it identified all the Black and Indigenous people of Toronto who had encounters with the TPS and for whom information was collected starting 2011 to the present.

The lawsuit states, “Carding has caused widespread harm, including damage to the plaintiff’s and class member’s mental and physical integrity, and their privacy and their livelihoods.” The individuals named in the lawsuit include three former Chiefs of TPS: Bill Blair, Mark Saunders, James Ramer as well as the present Chief Myron Demkiw.

In response to the class-action lawsuit, the TPS board released a statement. It reads, “Any material filed in due course and in response to this litigation before the court will be a matter of public record.”

Ayaan shared her story recently with a well-known community newspaper. She mentioned that she was accosted

by Toronto Police officers while she was out in the public in 2011 and detained by them while her personal information was documented without the police officers telling her why. The consequence of this interaction led to the loss of her security

clearance at the Toronto Pearson Airport in 2014 after being employed there for eight years. The reason that the RCMP gave to Transport Canada, was that she was seen in the company of someone of Somali-Canadian background who purportedly had gang affiliation and a criminal connection.

The loss of her security clearance led to the termination of her employment without being able to access employment insurance or benefits. Her lawyer, Solomon McKenzie released a statement on Ayaan’s behalf. It states, “I became very worried about going in public. I feared that the police would watch me and accuse me of something. I stopped volunteering in my community, because I was so worried that the police might report me again. I felt targeted. The police punished me for being in public, and I missed: promotions, raises, and was suspended from my job, for no reason.”

In further developments, after pursuing a review of Transport Canada’s decision that led to the loss of her security clearance, a federal court determined that the process was biased and quashed the previous decisions which led to her

regaining her job 21 months after she lost it. The effects of the ordeal took a toll on Ayaan’s: mental, emotional and physical health. She experienced social isolation, faced depression, became paranoid and was hypervigilant in response to the cumulative effects of the stress. She notes, “I never received an apology for the police behavior, even though they had a significant impact on my life and career. I want to make sure that nobody ever has to suffer this experience again.”

Farah has since moved to the United States to avoid coming in contact with any Toronto Police officers but is determined to pursue the lawsuit because of the personal anguish and emotional toll it took on her. In addition, she hopes that the practice of carding will be terminated and its effects on members of the Somali community.

There are several outcomes that are expected if the lawsuit is successful.

They include: violation of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedom, removal of all information collected from the Police database, and increased availability of additional training resources.

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

NEWS

PAGE 15

Fourth exhilarating edition of United Boxing Promotions Fight Night at Pickering Casino Resort SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

“Gold, Table 15. How am I going to find that in the dark? Excuse me,” I said to one of the casino attendants, “Could you please help me find my seat?”

“Of course, ma’am,” he said with a smile. “Right this way.” As he walked me through the auditorium, I felt the adrenaline in the room. I had come right in the middle of the Joshua Frazer, Carlos Rodrigues fight and the energy in the room was electric. I had come just in time; it was definitely the fight of the night, and I had made it just in time.

Featuring the province’s best fighters in world-class venues, Tyler Buxton’s

United Boxing Promotions has a two-decade track record of developing elite-level Canadian boxing talent and delivering one of the premier fan experiences in Ontario sport.

“The long, storied history of professional boxing is intertwined with the casino entertainment industry,” explained Tyler Buxton, President of United Boxing Promotions. “We are thrilled to continue United’s blossoming partnership with the Pickering Casino Resort. With its world-class Arena venue, over 2,220 slots, 90-plus live table games, fine and casual dining options and luxury hotel, the Casino is a premier destination for professional boxing in Ontario.”

Officially opened in 2023, the Pickering Casino Resort is a premier gaming destination and with them being the official host of United Promotions Boxing, Fight Night at the Casino has quickly become a popular attraction, with October 21st, representing the fourth edition following three sell-out crowds to begin the series.

The first fight was a TKO in the third round for Gisu “Terminator” Lee, his second big stoppage in his first two fights

with United Promotions. The second fight had Milad Zareian making a statement with a big TKO in his professional debut. After an all-action eight rounds, Joshua “Hell Razor” Frazer scored a split decision victory over Mohamed Rodriguez, and like I mentioned earlier, definitely fight of the night.

It was a perfect shut-out unanimous decision victory for Sara HaghighatJoo over Esmeralda Gaona! “I’m ready to fight anyone that’s within the top five. I want No. 1 and think I should be ranked top five right now — I would literally take on any of them who have belts. We’re going after world titles, and by next year I should have a world title shot,” Sara Haghighat-Joo shared before her fight.

I stepped out to use the washroom for one minute, and by the time I got back in, Shakeel Phinn had already knocked out Rafael Sosa Pintos. “I am ready for those big calls in 2024,” Phinn shared. “Those are the fights I want, the top guys at 168. This win over Pintos will propel me into the conversation of taking on some of those top guys.”

The co-main event was supposed to be Mark Smither vs Paul Salcido, but the

rumour is that Paul did not make weight.

Before his pending fight, Mark shared his thoughts, “I am pumped. The Pickering Casino Resort is a great spot for fight night and my legion of fans from Barrie will be coming down with me. I’m going to apply the pressure early and we will be able to push the pace against our opponent — we’re looking for a clear, decisive victory.” Although we did not get to see him fight, Mark got in the ring and addressed his many fans, encouraging them to keep the fire burning, and to look out for him, because he would be back.

The main event Josh Wagner vs Abraham Juarez did not disappoint. As usual Josh took his time, dissecting his opponent round by round until his hand was raised, showing us once again that he is indeed “The Boss.”

I was happy to see our Jamaican fighters there representing: Kemahl “The Hitman” Russell, Ricardo “Big 12” Brown, and Gregory Killer Miller. I had a chance to speak with them, and they reminded me that on Saturday December 2nd, 2023, they would be back in action at Pickering Casino Resort. See you all there!

Easy to promise, but difficult to accomplish; taking care of asylum seekers in Ontario STEVEN KASZAB steven@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Our local and provincial governments, along with the many charitable organizations in the country have been inundated with the challenge to care for many thousands of asylum seekers, be they political or economic.

The federal government has responded to the public’s demands to assist the many homeless, destitute and threatened peoples of many foreign lands such as Afghanistan, Syria, Congo, Nigeria and from every corner of this globe. Promises are made reality, as these asylum seekers arrive on our land, welcomed and then left to care for themselves, or sent to various communities throughout our nation, cities not really prepared for the: financial, mental and historical demands they will face.

African migrants sleeping on To-

ronto’s streets, Migrants sent to hotels throughout Ontario and waiting to get the assistance and approvals needed to become members of our society. A babysitting mentality with no real wish to assist and release these people quickly and effectively.

We must call upon all levels of governments to move swiftly (is this possible?) to transform our immigration system, make it more cost effective, less costly, better communicators to all partners and more efficient in its operations. Partners is the right term, I think. Unloading migrants and asylum seekers onto the sidewalks of our cities, like they do in America these days, is bad management, ineffective, damaging to both the hosts and guests alike and carries on a horrid tradition we have had in North America for many decades.

Tradition you may ask. Well, there is the practice used by many municipalities in Canada and cities in America where migrants, asylum seekers and illegal migrants alike are gathered together, given some money and put onto a bus, then sent to a larger urban center far from where they were gathered. The cost for caring for these people simply passes onto their new city hosts. Costs like medical care, housing, shelter maintenance and staffing fall onto

the larger city they arrive at. A cold, selfish approach to a problem that will not go away.

Demands, perhaps a cry for funds from good hearted people who need to face those in need must go out to our public and corporate elites, those who determine who can be assisted, how, where and when. Promises of charity and good-hearted humanity must become principled well managed action. Cost effective, direct and life giving.

A call upon the Federal government to enact measures that would assist those carrying out the management of these people follows: •

•

Calling for expedited work authorization for asylum seekers, so they can enter the workforce and ultimately leave the shelter system. Let these people work and build their lives.

Identify federally owned land and sites to use as temporary shelters (i.e. former military bases) as asylum seekers wait for legal status. Unused property owned by the Federal government can be renovated and used quickly. If it could house many hundreds of our soldiers, it can also assist migrants and asylum seekers too.

•

•

Reimbursement for the costs compounded upon municipal, provincial governments and charitable agencies in the effort to care for these asylum seekers. These organizations cannot deplete their budgets and reroute funds that are already allocated elsewhere to this cause. The Federal government must short their financial promises to the world and take care of its own backyard.

Request substantial financial investments for: housing, schooling, healthcare, case management, and shelter possibilities.

These asylum seekers are literally fleeing for their lives, whether it be from: political strife, gang violence, extreme poverty, or persecution. They are coming to this land with the same goals as our descendants, our grandparents, and parents did to build a better life for their family and themselves.

With great power comes great responsibility. The Federal government must stand up before the public, take on full responsibility for those they allow to enter our land, and continue to establish a firm, well managed partnership between all involved, local, provincial and national alike.

PAGE 16

NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Protein isolate plant has unlocked the potential of plant-based proteins with their innovative ultimate pea protein SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

If PIP Was A...

Colour = Yellow (Yellow Peas!)

Star Sign = Scorpio (Fierce & Strong) Genre = Sci-Fi (Ag-tech Company) Aesthetic = Minimalist (Clean & Open) Pattern = Polka Dot (The DOT in our ‘i’ in PIP) Season = Spring (New Beginnings & New Innovations) Animal = Bear (New Era & Coming of New Life) Gemstone = Bloodstone (Bravery & Digging into Dreams) Weather = Chinook (How could it be anything else?)

Clothing = Lab Coat (Evidence & Science Based Process) Food = PEA PROTEIN, UP.P - That’s Us! Flower = Sweet Pea (Because it is a PEA!) Time of Day = Sunrise (A New Dawn & New Era) Landscape = Prairies (Home & Where the Peas Grow) Element = Water (Force to Be Reckoned With!

We Respect H2O) Place = Alberta (PIP’s Home!)

PIP IS THANKFUL… Before we get into the crux of this article, I want to first give props to Protein Isolate Plant (PIP) for their creative breakdown of what their company represents. It is nice to see an organization tap into the different facets of humanity (social, psychological, spiritual, physical, and environmental) to assiduously explain what they are about. Now let’s get into why I am introducing PIP to the community, and how knowing the information they provided will be beneficial.

Iron deficiency is a common health issue that can affect people of all races and ethnicities. Women, in general, are more susceptible to iron deficiency due to blood loss during menstruation. If a woman has heavy or prolonged menstrual periods, she is at a higher risk of developing iron deficiency.

In some cases, African Caribbean women might be at a higher risk of iron deficiency due to factors like heavy menstrual periods, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, which can lead to increased iron needs. Additionally, certain dietary choices or restrictions can also contribute to iron deficiency.

In some Caribbean countries, traditional diets lack a variety of iron-rich foods.

If the diet is primarily plant-based and lacks sources of heme iron (found in animal products), women might not be getting enough iron. Encouraging a balanced diet that includes iron-rich foods like red meat, poultry,

fish, lentils, beans, and fortified cereals as well as raising awareness about the importance of iron-rich foods, especially among pregnant and breastfeeding women, can help prevent iron deficiency. In some cases, healthcare providers might recommend iron supplements, especially during pregnancy, or for women with diagnosed iron deficiency anemia.

One proficient way to remedy this issue is to increase iron consumption. Christine Lewington, the CEO of PIP International, has innovatively created a sustainable and flavorless legume-based protein powder that preserves protein in its most natural state.

PIP’s mission is to accelerate the Global Adoption of the most sustainable, best tasting and affordable protein. Combining proven disruptive technologies, PIP aims to be significant by helping heal our world through individual wellness that will be accessible to all! PIP is working to be leaders in the protein revolution by creating the most sustainable and affordable protein with the use of industry disrupting technologies.

PIP has answered the call of the global protein crisis by unlocking the potential of plantbased proteins with their innovative ultimate pea protein. PIP’s ultimate purpose is to heal the world through individual wellness.

Pea Protein contains 42% of a person’s daily value in one scoop, as opposed to a Whey protein that contains 0%. PIP’s technology created this supplement to be odorless, tasteless, and gentle. Whey Protein can cause bloating and allergies to those who are

sensitive to lactose, and pea protein doesn’t cause the same issue due to it being derived from a legume.

Studies continue to show that pea protein is a high-quality protein source, providing essential amino acids that are crucial for muscle building, repair, and overall body function. Pea protein is easily digestible, making it a suitable option for people with sensitive stomachs, or digestive issues. Unlike some other protein sources like soy or dairy, pea protein is hypoallergenic, meaning it is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction in most people.

Pea protein is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Pea protein is free from common allergens like soy, dairy, and nuts, making it a safe choice for people with allergies to these foods. Pea protein contains vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and B-vitamins, providing additional nutritional benefits beyond just protein content.

This agri-tech company based in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, has grown immensely since it was established in 2020. PIP International has gone from zero revenue to $7 million in purchase orders in less than 12 months. Christine’s empire is just beginning, she plans to expand an alternative source of protein on a local and global scale.

Hmmmm! Pea protein: is this something that you would be open to trying?

Athlete Women Empowered celebrates diversity and women’s empowerment SYDNEE WALCOTT sydnee@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Girls and women who partake in sports help break down the misconception of them being weak, or incapable. A Toronto basketball tournament proves women are capable of tearing down those misconceptions.

Established in 2021 by the Athlete Tech Group, the Athlete Women Empowered gives a platform to inspire women in sports.

The 2024 tournament will take place at Trinity Western University in British Columbia.

As the first of its kind, the Athlete Tech Group held its inaugural Athlete Women Empowered Classic basketball tournament from October 20th to 22nd, 2023 at York University. What’s exceptional about the event is that it exclusively showcases the only four women’s university basketball teams currently led by Black female head coaches.

These universities are York University, Concordia University, Trinity Western University and the University of Toronto.

“We wanted to create something that was beyond a tournament,” said Christa

Eniojukan, York University’s head coach for the female basketball team.

There’s nothing new under the sun about tournaments that showcase the skills of high school and post-secondary students.

However, Eniojukan said the inspiration behind the creation of the Athlete Women Empowered Classic was the goal of reaching out to the community in a different way.

Besides showcasing five pre-season U-Sport games and highlighting some of the most gifted female basketball prospects, the event provided a variety of community outreach opportunities available for everyone in attendance.

During the morning of the event, a clinic and workshops (free of cost) will be offered for girls between the ages of 13 and 18.

One of the workshops will teach the participants the skills of what it takes to be an elite basketball player.

An invite-only empowerment dinner will be held in the evening, featuring a panel of mentors who will help provide support around transitioning from student athlete to professional athlete.

Having these young athletes showcased can lead to many doors opening up for them. Learning from other mentors on how to be involved in sports in various industries through collaborations will also be another marvelous opportunity for them. The leading outcome everyone aims to achieve is to empower women and to have the opportunity to receive exposure.

The launch of “Cadmium Talks” aims to Improve the management of cadmium levels in cocoa and export viability PAUL JUNOR paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

There have been many international studies that have brought attention to the levels of cadmium in cocoa products. These have precipitated responses from international bodies such as the European Union, which is one of the world’s largest importers of chocolate and cocoa products. The 11th European Development Fund (EDF) Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Measures Project was established to focus on this issue. The International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) is the executing agency of the EDF and SPS Measures Project, which aims to increase compliance by CARIFORUM states with international SPS measures, standards and procedures to increase

international and regional market access.

The Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA/International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) launched a project titled, “Improving Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing,” to support the management of cadmium levels in cocoa in Latin America and the Caribbean. Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF) and the Cocoa Research Centre (CRC) located in Trinidad and Tobago are major funders of this project and are tasked with regulating cadmium-related activities.

The press release indicates that Latin America and the Caribbean are responsible for supplying about 20% of the world’s cocoa and more than 80% of the world’s fineflavored and organic cocoa. There are more than 400,000 tree crop farming families from 25 countries in this area, which means it is a primary source of economic sustenance for them. There are legitimate concerns that the cadmium regulation could have a negative impact on the Caribbean Region’s ability to capitalize on the economic windfalls from cocoa and chocolate markets in Europe. In addition, the impact on various stakeholders in this ecosystem would be significant.

The press release notes that cocoa bean shipments are rejected significantly from these regions which is troubling.

Professor Pathnansthan Umaharan who serves as Director of the Cocoa Research Centre outlines the significance of cadmium mitigation in the press release. He notes, “Cadmium is a heavy metal found in the soil.

It’s absorbed by the cocoa plant and transferred into the cocoa beans. Countries particularly the US, UK, and the European Union, have set regulations that stipulate maximum allowable limits for cadmium in cocoa-based products, which, if exceeded, can prevent access to these markets. The Caribbean Region produces cocoa, which goes into the production of boutique high-value chocolates, and there is a concern that the new regulations may hamper exports.”

In order to facilitate this conversation a series of discussions titled, “Cadmium Talks,” were launched as a part of this project. They utilize a webinar format that brings together experts from around the world to share their knowledge of solutions.

Two of the questions posed were: how much do Caribbean farmers know about cadmium, and how can we reduce cadmium

in our cocoa to a safe level? With respect to the structure of the webinar, Dr. Elizabeth S. Johnson (who is the IICA Representative in Jamaica) states, “IICA is honoured to be executing this project with the leading cocoa innovation and research centres in: Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Trinidad and Tobago.

The issue of minimizing cadmium levels in cocoa and chocolate products is an intensive study in LAC, with projects in either Latin America, or the Caribbean funded by multiple agencies. This project, jointly funded by the EU and the STDF, is the first attempt at harmonization of methods, and farmer-ready mitigation strategies across Latin America and the Caribbean tainting market access. We are very excited about the awareness-raising and discussion forum opportunity with the Launch of our ‘Cadmium Talks’ webinars.”

The five webinars will feature experts on different topics on Cadmium in Cocoa and will include a Q & A format. They will be released later in audio formats. Cd Talks one and two have occurred and others are forthcoming.

PAGE 18 Photo Credit: Jeff Lockhart

FEATURE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

DORIAN FITZGERALD HUGGINS

Photo Credit: Jeff Lockhart

Showcasing the richness and the diversity of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

“It’s not about me, it’s about them (Vincentians), making sure that I represent their interest. It’s not about my interests. Regardless of: colour, class, creed, or religion, I will make sure I represent their interest and stay close to the ground to understand what their issues are, and how to solve them.”

This statement above was made 10 years ago, and true to form, in every way, our Classic Man represents his home island. He engages in diplomatic activities to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries. He purposefully works to promote the economic interests of his island by assisting businesses, promoting investment opportunities, and participating in trade missions and events.

Don’t be surprised if you find him organizing cultural events, exhibitions, and educational exchange programs to promote understanding and cooperation between his magnificent island and Canada.

He is especially skilled at engaging with the local media and community to promote a positive image of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Whether it is holding a press conference, giving interviews, and using social media to communicate with the public, he follows diplomatic protocols and engages in ceremonial duties with zeal. It cannot be denied, The Consulate General for St. Vincent and the Grenadines Dorian Fitzgerald Huggins is a man of intellect, charisma, and conviction.

Let’s take a quick look at the island that he holds so dear to his heart, St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

St. Vincent boasts diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, waterfalls, and pristine beaches. The variety of natural scenery appeals to nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers from all over the world. St. Vincent is part of the Grenadines, a chain of beautiful islands and cays. Each of these islands, including Mustique, Bequia, and Tobago Cays, has its own charm, offering secluded beaches and vibrant marine life.

The island’s volcanic origin has resulted in unique geological formations, such as La Soufrière, the island’s active volcano. The volcano and its surroundings offer breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.

St. Vincent is home to numerous picturesque beaches with powdery white sand, beautiful black sand, and crystal-clear waters. Popular beaches like Villa Beach, Indian Bay Beach, and Dark View Falls are recognized as the places to be for sunbathing and water activities.

Visiting the island and being an actual native of the island are two different experiences. In my sit down with Mr. Huggins, he shared some of his experiences and enlightened me as to what it felt like to grow up as a country boy.

“I was born in South Rivers, St Vincent. I spent the first 12 to 13 years of my life in that village,” Mr. Huggins shared reminiscently. “After that, I moved to Calliaqua.

I didn’t grow up with both of my parents as they separated when I was really young. I lived with my mom’s family until I was 12 years old. My mom had to go to look for work outside of the country, so I lived with my grandparents and aunt. Life was different during those times. We lived off the land; we produced our own foods. In those day’s barrels were not like they are today. If you got something from the U.S. it would take months. We grew our own livestock; things were just different.”

He chuckled, “My teeth were strong, because they say country folks eat hard foods. We only go to the dentist to pull out a tooth. I will say this; my life at this time forged me into the person I am today. It taught me resilience, fortitude. I grew up poor and because of this, I can always relate to those who have less.”

He moved in with his dad at the age of 12; his

life took on a different structure. “I was a bright boy in primary school, and when I passed my exams for secondary school, my dad thought it would be better to move in with him, to make it easier for me to travel to and from school.

The fatherly discipline that I didn’t have in the country, I had with my dad. He made sure that my education was my focus; he established values in me that I hold to this day, and he provided those opportunities necessary for me to excel. My dad was heavy in Caribbean politics. When his party was in power, he had a lot of influence; when his party was not in power, he turned to agriculture. My father happened to own an estate that he inherited from his parents.

I always wanted to be in the field of science and mathematics. I was a problem solver, and I did pretty well as a science student. I wanted to get into engineering (which I did), and I ended up working for a company called Cable and Wireless. I went straight into work there from school and worked there for 30 years. I did work in finance, management, and fraud investigation.

I finished as head of marketing for the company.”

Even though he was an obvious intellect, there was another side to Mr. Huggins that he nurtured, and still does to this day, his love for sports. “I loved sports.

I played: squash, lawn tennis, table tennis, soccer, and cricket. I was so athletically inclined and a sportsman, it distracted my focus. If I had focused on one sport, I know that I could have played at the professional level.

I still play tennis, soccer, and cricket on the beach in St. Vincent. I cycle, I sprint up hills, it is what the doctor ordered.”

People began to notice the work that he did, and the island wanted someone to come to Canada in a hurry to become the Consulate General.

“I thought about it for a while,” Mr. Huggins tells me. “I mulled over it, and I said, I would give it two years, and 10 years later here I am. I have a chance to serve people and find opportunities to advance my country. I want to add value to my job, if not, I am wasting my time.”

When he first took this position 10 years ago, he was looking forward to working along closely with Vincentians in the diaspora, as he sought to expand this country’s footprint in Canada. Even back then, the passion for his island shone through.

“The government asked me to perform national duties based on the fact that they know that I am able to step up and deliver, so they know I am capable of doing this job. Now, if the constituents of any constituency request that I return to take part in representative politics, clearly, that is a decision for the people in the constituency and the party for them to decide. I am not the type of person who will force myself on people, they have to indicate that they want me.”

The Consulate General Mr. Dorian Fitzgerald Huggins always had an interest in politics, but he chose to represent his country in the way that he is amplifying the voices of the people, and showcasing the richness and the diversity of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Photo Credit: Sanj P Photography

Written by Simone J. Smith Toronto Caribbean News

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HEALTH

PAGE 27

Oral probiotics offer another path to wellness W. GIFFORDJONES MD DIANA GIFFORD-JONES COMMON SENSE HEALTH

“The mouth is the door of evil.” So said Euripides, the ancient Greek playwright of tragedy. If he were a modern-day nutritionist, it could be an observation on the very bad stuff people put in their mouths as food. Mother Teresa, however, acknowledged the mouth’s ability to do well. “Kind words can be short and easy to speak,” she said, “But their echoes are truly endless.” So, is your mouth a place of good or evil?

Nourishment and communication are two functions of the mouth. On the outside, a smile is a beautiful signal of happiness, but inside the mouth, there exists a complex ecosystem of friends and

enemies.

The mouth is home to an extraordinary community of more than 700 species of: bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms. Some of them are “good,” because they play an important role in maintaining oral health. Streptococcus salivarius is an example. This bacterium helps metabolize sugar and keeps the mouth from getting too acidic. The saliva in your mouth also contains antimicrobial enzymes and proteins that protect the teeth and gums.

Other microorganisms are “bad,” like streptococcus mutans, which are cavity causers, converting sugars into acids that attack your teeth. Bacteria love to feast on food that gets stuck between teeth after you eat. When they break down the food, smelly gases can result, otherwise known as bad breath. When conditions are out of balance, gum disease can set in. Bad oral health can also be an indication of more serious trouble occurring in the cardiovascular system.

What can you do to prevent trouble? Always study history. The importance

of a healthy mouth is not a recent discovery. The Chinese were using toothbrushes before the 7th century and ancient Egyptians documented treatments for toothaches many centuries earlier. Today, if you are not using a toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss to remove food between teeth after meals, you are out of touch with one of the easiest ways to maintain good general health, not to mention your teeth.

There’s another tool to consider.

Usually associated with gut health, probiotics have long been celebrated for their role in maintaining a harmonious balance in our digestive system. However, what is less known is the potential of oral probiotics in promoting overall health.

Probiotics are made up of those friendly bacteria. Research has shown that the regular use of oral probiotics can have a positive impact on oral health, and subsequently, our overall well-being.

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, researchers found that regular use of oral probiotics not only reduced bad breath, but also improved low self-esteem. It makes sense that more

pleasant breath means better social relationships and quality of life.

Several other clinical trials have examined the effects of oral probiotics on individuals with gingivitis, a common gum disease characterized by inflammation and bleeding gums. Participants who regularly consumed oral probiotics showed a significant reduction in gum inflammation and bleeding compared to those who did not.

The connection between oral health and heart health is a subject of growing interest among researchers. A study of the relationship between oral probiotics and the risk of cardiovascular diseases found that individuals who incorporated oral probiotics into their daily routine experienced a reduction in risk factors for heart disease, including inflammation markers.

Should you rush out to buy oral probiotics at your local health food store?

For some, it might be just what is needed to establish a “good” healthier mouth. Just as probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics can modify the microbiome of your gut, and they can do the same in your mouth.

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Wednesday, October 25, 2023 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

HEALTH

PAGE 29

Shadow work must be the first action towards prevention of disease TRISHA SMITH

trishas@carib101.com

SAKRED SYNERGI

Within the last month, every passing I have been informed of, has always been due to cancer (if not, gun violence). It is a bit disheartening, as nobody knows anyone who hasn’t been diagnosed. Cancer is a formidable foe that knows no boundaries, but its impact is not felt equally across all demographic groups. In North America and the Caribbean, the cancer rate among Black people has been steadily increasing over the years, sparking concern among healthcare professionals, robbing families of their bread winners and children of their parents.

Why? Why is the rate rising with no slowdown in sight? The easy answer would

be: junk food, poor diet and smoking, but what if I told you cancer begins with your thoughts and how you feel?

We know that as above, so below.

We know that everything that manifests physically must happen spiritually first. All must trickle down the chain of existence before it can become tangible, and disease is not excluded from this process.

Disease is not just a dis-ease in the body. It is a byproduct of a prolonged emotional state that affects our cellular structure, which manifests as disease. This physical pathogen also carries a non-physical counterpart that feeds on our suffering which in turn exacerbates the disease.

According to the Doxagrad, written

by Michael S Djanthi, cancer, lymphoma and tumours of all types are first formed in the emotional body through hate, anger, rage and sexual inhibition. Now, this doesn’t mean you have to be walking around hating everyone to be diagnosed with cancer. This means that there may be a deep seated, unresolved issue that sits in your subconscious mind. A trauma that you may have forgotten, or a

What should you eat when you have the stomach flu?

Having the stomach flu can zap your appetite and make you nervous around food.

However, eating can soothe your stomach and help you regain your strength. The key is to eat as healthily as you can manage in gradually increasing quantities. Here are some safe foods to put on your menu: • • • • • • •

Unsweetened cereals Fresh or canned fruit Cooked vegetables Eggs Bread Pasta Fish

• •

Rice Lean meat

If you’re not lactose intolerant, low-fat dairy products like yogurt, milk and cheese are also suitable.

Keep a few safety precautions in mind. Prepare meat and fish with as little fat as possible. Avoid fried or spicy foods and powdered soup mixes. Stay away from ice cream, pastries, deli meats, chips, candy and chocolate until you feel better.

If you need personalized advice, you can talk to a healthcare professional by calling 811 or your local health hotline.

The benefits of adding more chlorophyll to your diet Chlorophyll is the natural compound that gives plants their green colour. It helps plants absorb energy and get nutrients through photosynthesis. So, what can chlorophyll do for humans? Here’s what you need to know.

Benefits Some claim that chlorophyll is a powerful cure-all that can do everything from treating arthritis and preventing weight gain to detoxifying your blood and stimulating the immune system. However, to date, there is little evidence supporting these health claims.

But chlorophyll shows some promise. Research on rodents has shown that chlorophyll has antioxidant properties that can reduce the occurrence of cancerous tumours. Some studies have also proven that chlorophyll has anti-inflammatory effects

and can be used to help treat skin conditions like acne.

How to add it to your diet You can purchase liquid chlorophyll and chlorophyll tablets from your local health food store. However, eating more green foods like spinach, kale, green beans, and peas is cheaper. Getting your nutrition from a well-balanced diet is almost always more effective than supplementation.

Keep in mind that supplements aren’t regulated as strictly as medicines.

More¬over, it’s also possible that chlorophyll could negatively interact with the medications you’re taking. Therefore, talking with your doctor before adding chlorophyll supplements to your daily routine is best.

level of rage that boils inside of you ever so often when you hear “that person’s name,” Anger, or resentment towards a parent, rage towards your abuser. You may have grown up in a strict religious family, or a culture that made you feel ashamed about your sexual freedom, or uncomfortable with your body and sexual activities. You may have resonated with something, or nothing I mentioned above, but the bottom line is that shadow work must be the first action towards prevention of disease, including cancer.

Shadow work is the process of deep introspection, a dive into one’s emotions, thoughts and suppressed trauma; a safe process that unveils unresolved experiences that still trigger a negative response when recollected. It is a clearing of the things that make you feel grief, victimized, ashamed, unworthy or unloved.

When you think about it, society has created an environment that distracts us from ourselves. We are constantly stimulated with technology, distracted with entertainment, bad habits and a superficial lens of our lives and what has become important to us.

There’s so much going today, who has time to sit down and think about the tragedies of yesterday? It seems like nobody has the time nowadays, it’s an uncomfortable conversation that is easiest to be ignored. Unfortunately, the body can’t ignore it. The more you suppress, or express those emotions in an unhealthy way, the more cell clusters will form in the body to bring that emotion to life in the form of a dis-ease.

Mental health services are underutilized in many Black communities due to cultural stigma and a lack of accessible resources. The reluctance to seek help for mental health issues can lead to unaddressed

emotional struggles. This emotional distress can compound the risk of cancer through various mechanisms, including impaired immune function, and coping mechanisms.

Unresolved emotions can have you living in a state of lack, which is a socioeconomic factor that can affect cancer risk through limited access to healthcare, lower income, reduced access to healthy foods, and increased exposure to environmental toxins. Studies have shown that Black individuals often face structural and systemic barriers in accessing high-quality healthcare, leading to delayed cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The emotional toll of living in a society with racial disparities and discrimination may lead to maladaptive coping mechanisms, such as: smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and unhealthy eating habits.

Have you ever heard of an angry person craving a salad? Their first go-to is usually something salty to fuel the rage, or something super sweet to comfort it. These factors contribute to the higher prevalence of cancers such as: lung, colorectal, and breast cancer.

These behaviours not only increase the risk of cancer but also serve as ways for individuals to cope with emotional distress.

The rising rate of cancer is evident, and healing unresolved trauma is the first and best step to prevention. Seek out counseling, talk to a trusted pastor, life coach, or guru. Begin implementing meditative practices like breath work, journaling, yoga and/ or exercise. Know that you are worthy of living a life free of emotional burden and pain.

The journey toward health is a journey we must all embark upon to ensure that everyone, regardless of their race, has the opportunity to lead a healthy life.

PAGE 30

LIFE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

A father’s love, served on a plate MEGAN ROBERTS megan@carib101.com

DELICIOUS CONVERSATIONS

*I dedicate this article to my Dad for his birthday. He turned 70 On October 16th* Food is often tied to memories, traditions, and the deepest emotions that define us as individuals. For me, the love for food and its associated memories are deeply rooted in my father’s culinary prowess and his larger-than-life presence in our kitchen.

My father’s kitchen was an aromatic haven, where jerk chicken, cake and salt fish, fried plantain, fried dumpling, oxtail, braised beef ribs, and curry goat were prepared to perfection. However, it wasn’t just the Jamaican staples that showcased his culinary flair. It was also the simple dishes like baked beans and hot dogs, spaghetti sauce, and the endearing way he’d spell my name in ketchup on my childhood macaroni and cheese.

Each meal was a testament to his love – not just for food, but for those he was feeding. His dishes were rich in flavour and abundant in quantity. As he often said, «We don’t fight over food in this house.» It was a reflection of the consistent and bountiful presence of food in our lives. His unwavering belief that «Food is to be shared and enjoyed» shaped my philosophy towards cooking and sharing meals.

Fish on Fridays, soup on Saturdays, and a grand Sunday dinner was the rhythm of our week, punctuated by culinary marvels. The ease

with which my father transformed simple ingredients into gastronomic wonders was nothing short of magical, but his brilliance wasn’t confined to our household traditions alone. A cherished memory is the New Year’s Day breakfasts shared with an Italian family. As we feasted on traditional Jamaican breakfast dishes, they brought along their Italian delicacies, creating a cross-cultural spread that underscored our shared love for food.

As a child, I often found myself magnetically drawn to the kitchen, observing my father’s culinary ballet. Those moments of observation, however, weren’t always passive. He would encourage me to «Make myself useful,” if I ever stood idle. This seemingly simple nudge fostered a proactive mindset that proved invaluable when I ventured into the culinary world. Always being a step ahead and anticipating needs became my mantra, turning me into an asset in any professional kitchen.

My father’s adventurous palate exposed my sister and me to a world of flavours. From the succulent veal sandwiches of California Sandwiches that he’d bring home, to a plethora of global cuisines, he ensured we grew up with a rich tapestry of culinary experiences.

Today, as I tread the path of a chef, his teachings remain my guiding star. I cherish the values of generosity, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence he instilled in me. I strive to pour love into every dish I create just as he did. I revel in the joy of experimenting with international cuisines and introducing others to new flavors, hoping to create memories for them, much like the ones my father created for me. By doing so, I aim to honour and continue his legacy, ensuring that every meal I serve embodies the love, warmth, and care that I was fortunate to grow up with.

LIFE

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 31

How TLC’s hit song continues to garner relevancy years later SYDNEE WALCOTT sydnee@carib101.com

VARIETY CORNER

Songs about relatable issues often hold relevancy years after their release, as younger generations may often face similar issues. One of TLC’s hit songs just so happens to be one of them.

By origin, the song started as a poem written by group member Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins, who was disgusted when watching an episode of The Ricki Lake Show. An episode featured men who were body-shaming

women and called them “fat pigs.” Watkins gave the poem to Dallas Austin, who helped turn the poem into a song for the group for their 1999 studio album, “Fan Mail.”

While the song’s music video touched on racism and gang violence, the focal point of the video was the inclusion of focusing on the body image issues of that time. Chilli portrays a woman who considers getting breast implants after her boyfriend convinces her to get them. She changes her mind after witnessing a patient getting her implants painfully removed. An overweight teenager suffers from an eating disorder while imagining having a petite supermodel body. Near the end of the video, the teen starts accepting her body shape after changing into a swimsuit.

The pressure to be pretty is still an issue 24 years after the song’s release. It was in 2010 when we started to see a rise in having a thick figure.

This figure contains a large chest size, a large bottom, a tiny waist, and a flat stomach. Since this figure is usually impossible to achieve naturally, many women have turned to cosmetic surgeons and the black market to achieve this figure. Lip fillers, cheek fillers and face contouring procedures would soon follow.

Receiving one of these types of procedures comes with a cost. Over the years, many women have lost their lives, or sustained life-altering injuries because of the pressure to have the “ideal” body. We saw this play out in May of this year when Jacky Oh died from complications of cosmetic sur-

gery.

While on YouTube, watching one of Queen Chioma’s recent videos on body image and how social media plays a role in it, I came across a comment discussing how Unpretty fits well in this generation of young women.

With the rise of BBLs, plastic surgeries and fillers, this song continues to serve as a reminder that one is beautiful the way they are naturally.

Body trends change over time.

It’s not something that I agree with, as we should accept people for who they are, but that’s just life. Cosmetic procedures aren’t worth getting due to their many cons. As mentioned, TLC’s hit song should remind us we don’t need to change ourselves to be beautiful.

Canada has a lot to be ashamed of, and it does a good job of hiding its atrocities

BY ADRIAN REECE Canada has a long history of being a peaceful welcoming nation. It attempts to separate from the atrocities other countries historically commit. However, Canada hides skeletons in her closet.

Nations teach their maturing citizens about the triumphs and accolades they can be proud of. The Canadian history books are no different in that they gloss over or omit the darkest parts of the past in an attempt to wash their hands of the prejudices and discriminations a part of its heritage.

Canadians in the annals of history are seen culturally as a moral leader in dealings with foreign nations and peoples. Although this country is considered a mixed salad of cultural identities, it has not always been tolerant of differing ideologies and ways of life. A common misconception about Canadian history is that slavery did not exist here. Black Life: Untold Stories is a documentary series exposing the darkness

surrounding Canada and the trans-Atlantic slave trade. As a country Canada had its own brand of slavery that made living here as a person of colour just as much of a nightmare as some plantations in the United States.

The story of the underground railroad and slaves escaping to the north, painted a picture of safety, security and freedom inside the borders of Canada. While there were opportunities of freedom, Black men and women were still persecuted and mistreated in the streets, slaves and free citizens alike.

Property laws extended to people in Canada and upheld the ownership of slaves and chattel slavery.

Black Life strips down Canada’s facade and tells the untold truths about the going on during an embarrassing time in Canadian history. Loyalists in Canada wrote letters and bills of sale in the selling and purchasing of slaves, and also had an extensive slave catching sys-

tem that relied on other slave owners to collaborate and relay information.

Canadian history tells a different story than the actual events that occurred on Canadian soil.

The importance of this documentary is met in the un-edited truth about the human experience in the great white north. It is only in the last few years that many people became aware of residential schools, previously hidden for years under the guise of Canadian goodwill and inclusivity. There is also the turning away of Jewish migrants attempting to escape Nazi Germany in the late 1930s. Questions arise of whether Canada is really the culturally tolerant nation it portrays itself to be.

Canada has shown immense hate towards Black men and women the same way the rest of the world has shown disdain towards the race in its entirety.

Canada has a lot to be ashamed of, and it does a good job of hiding its atrocities. Where most of the world has

had their crimes put on full display for the world to judge. Canada has tucked them away and played the moral superior. Stories Untold is giving viewers a real look into how Canada has historically treated black people. For Black men and women growing up in this country, this series will give clarity into the treatment and stereotypes that were once thought to solely exist in America.

It’s an eye opener, but necessary information to truly understand what kind of country we are truly living in, and where the systems we fight against come from. Their inception and what continues to maintain them. As ideologies are passed down from generation to generation it is now more obvious why people deal with the hardships in Canada that they do. Even now with Canada continuing to pretend we can now look at the present and attempt to make changes towards the future.

Learn your rights as a: Human, worker, citizen or person STEVEN KASZAB steven@carib101.com

INSIGHT TO SOCIETY

Harassment is the actions, implied or acted upon by pressure and harassment of another. Social, physical, psychological, religious undue pressure, or harassment comes in many forms: ageism, sexism, disability shaming, weight shaming, racism for example.

Race and religious harassment are on the rise within our various economic sectors. For some migrants and refugees, the struggle of finding a job so they can house and feed themselves and their families continues to place

them in situations and environments unfavorable indeed.

As an example, we can look to UFP RANSON, an international firm and manufacturer. A group of six to seven unnamed Black Muslim’s began working at their West Virginia plant in 2019.

Many were discharged within a year, but only after they were subjected to a hostile work environment, because of their race and religion. These workers were subjected to various actions by their fellow employees such as: • • • •

Calling workers daily various offensive race and religious based epithets.

Told these men that K>K>Klansmen worked alongside them in the facility.

Threw objects at them during their daily prayers.

Blocked and intimidated them when they attempted to access the

• •

time clock.

Given tasks that were intentionally onerous.

Some were threatened with implied violence.

Members of the plant’s management also offered employee’s extra pay if they agreed to harass these workers until they voluntarily resigned. Complaints were made, and UFP Ranson failed to investigate these complaints.

In fact, one Black worker was fired 12 days after he complained about this harassment. This conduct was a violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. These workers sued their former employer and won, receiving $215,000.

The firm was forced to enact various procedures that protect the rights of all workers.

Imagine what sort of worker environment exists in the restaurants, retail environments that you visit on

a daily basis? Secretaries and medical assistants, female and male alike face various forms of prejudice, racism and sexism, often hidden and endured to keep one’s needed job.

The courage someone needs to initiate a complaint is substantial, as those who whistle blow, or complain often face retribution, both individual and institutional. Three quarters of employee’s working for McDonald’s Restaurants USA claimed harassment, and 71% of these were chastised for reporting harassment. Managers of every level have the influence and power to give hours/higher wages to those they like.

Learn your rights as a: human, worker, citizen or person. Only you can prevent or fight for your rights. A simple but true complaint is the first step towards a business, corporate, or community transformation.

PAGE 32

LIFE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

I hope that this has inspired others to speak their truth, speak to their pain SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

HUMAN SPECIALIST

I want to thank everyone for allowing me to delve into the narcissist section of my life.

As many know, writing is a powerful form of therapy that has allowed me to explore my: thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe and private space. For me, it has been an effective way to cope with emotions, reduce stress, and gain insights into myself.

Through writing, I have gained a deeper understanding of my thoughts and behaviors. Journaling, for example, lets me reflect on my experiences and identify patterns in my emotions and reactions. This self-awareness can be enlightening and

empowering. It has allowed me to reframe my experiences, viewing them from different angles and finding new meaning, or understanding in them.

Writing is what initially pulled me out of the depression that I was feeling when I was going through my Panamanian experience, and to this day, it serves as a way for me to funnel my thoughts and emotions into something that is tangible, a documented account of my existence on this planet.

I am nearly at the end of the experience. I have been writing it for over three years now, each edition painfully recalling each and every excruciating minute of that experience. I think that it is now time to move on from that experience, not relive it anymore. I have learned so much, and in all that I have learned, I feel less knowledgeable about life. Funny how that works; even though I had to deal with some real difficult times, more continue to arise, and there are times that I feel that I still don’t know what to do.

To sum it all up, my lawyer did an amazing job of pleading my case, and just as my mother predicted, I was hit with a lighter sentence, one that would not have me pay any restitution, or serve any jail time.

I had to do two years probation, but I had a lot more freedom then when I was under house arrest.

I will never forget what the judge said to me at my last court appearance. I was expected to provide the court with character letters, and people who I call my friends really showed up for me. It was at the last court appearance that the judge reviewed these letters, and she shared with me some of the kind words that had been written. I had also written a letter about my experience and how I felt about everything. She made note of this as well, “Ms. Smith,” she started. “I have read some of the great things that people have said about you, and the work that you do. I also read what you had to say about yourself, and I must say, I have never seen anyone who was as hard on themselves as

you are. In life, mistakes happen Ms. Smith.

I want you to take these mistakes and use them as potting soil for your life. Learn from them, grow from them, and leave here knowing that you have great work to do.”

I remember being quite shocked to hear her say this, but her words have stuck with me, and I have lived up to those words.

I continue to make mistakes, and really and truly, I am still very hard on myself. I am now learning things about myself that I didn’t know, and I am stronger for it. At this point of my life, all of my life lessons are now being poured into the younger generation, and of course all you amazing readers who have stuck with me through these last few years. I am sure that I could have shared more, but I think that everyone has seen my pain through my writing and experienced this pain in a very detailed way.

I hope that this has inspired others to speak their truth, speak to their pain. We are all going through it; each and every one of us.

Cause, or effect: anti-Black racism and slavery Part I DESMOND BOLLERS desmond@carib101.com

CARIBBEAN HISTORY

There is an ongoing debate among historians about whether anti-Black racism led to slavery, or whether the reverse is true and slavery and the need for its justification led to anti-Black racism. Some people make much of the fact that in European folklore, Blackness is often associated with negativity and evil and that this pre-disposed Europeans to a negative view of Africans.

Let’s examine the facts and see where they lead us.

Available records of interactions between Africans and Europeans prior to the seventeenth century (when African enslavement became the norm in European colonies in the Americas) tend to show otherwise. For example, the experiences of Juan Latino in Spain and Abram Petrovich Gannibal in Russia.

It should be noted that in the European slave-based colonies in the Caribbean, Central America and South America in sharp

contrast with the slave-based economies in North America, the humanness of Africans was never called into question.

Let’s begin with Aesop’s fable of the wolf and the lamb which goes like this.

Once upon a time, a little lamb wandered away from the rest of the flock, and while drinking some water encountered a wolf which wanted to eat the little lamb but felt the need to justify his actions.

“How do you dare to make the water dirty when I am drinking,” shouted the wolf at the little lamb. “I’m sorry, sir, you must be mistaken. The flow of the water is coming from you to me and not me to you. Therefore, I’m not making the water dirty for you to drink,” said the little lamb.

So, the wolf decided to try again.

“Remember, about a year ago, you called me with some abusive words.”

“Sir, with all due respect, I couldn’t have told you anything because I was not born a year ago.” replied the little lamb.

“Then it must have been your father. He abused me.” said the wolf cunningly.

To this, the little lamb replied, “I am sorry dear wolf. Please accept my apology on behalf of my father.”

The wolf responded “How do you dare to argue with me? You have no right to talk back to me. Now I will teach you and your family a lesson,” saying this, the wolf jumped onto the poor little lamb and killed and ate him.

The Spaniards participated in the brisk Mediterranean slave trade whose markets included: Arabs, Chinese, Indians, Japanese, Koreans, Malays, Native Americans, Turks, and sub-Saharan Africans, as well as white skinned Berbers, Circassians and Canary Islanders (Guanches).

It should be noted that prior to 1441, the overwhelming majority of enslaved persons in the Iberian Peninsula were of North African (light-skinned) origin. The Asians were supplied by the Portuguese who enslaved any Asians they could lay their hands on to provide the necessary labour for their economic enterprises including the slave markets of the Mediterranean.

In his BBC article 'British Slaves on the Barbary Coast' Professor Robert Davis (Early Modern History specialist at Ohio State University) when discussing the kidnapping and enslavement of Europeans by pirates from the Barbary Coast in the late 1500s and early 1600s, notes that "Slaves in Barbary could be Black, Brown or White, Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox, Jewish, or Muslim," and concludes that, "This may require that we rethink our belief that race was fundamental to pre-modern ideas about slavery."

From the very beginning of Atlantic sugar production on the Cape Verde Islands, slave labour was the main source of manpower. Notably, although the West Coast of Africa was only a short distance away, and the Spanish had been enslaving sub-Saharan

Africans for decades, they started out by forcing the native peoples, the white-skinned Guanches, to work in the cane fields. It was only when there were too few Guanches left alive from disease and overwork to take care of their fields, that they trafficked kidnapped Africans to the islands and enslaved them.

Although the Spaniards had been enslaving sub-Saharan Africans in the Iberian Peninsula for half a century before coming to the Caribbean, they did not immediately make a beeline to Africa to find forced labor. They first exploited the labour of the people who were available and vulnerable - that is the native peoples of the regions they invaded. The same is true of the other European nations that followed. They also first enslaved and trafficked Native Americans before giving any thought to Africans.

In the case of Barbados, which was not inhabited by Native Americans at the time Europeans arrived, the first population of forced labourers to be used for the cultivation of sugarcane by the English came from Ireland.

Notably, while the Spanish crown prohibited the trafficking of Africans across the Atlantic to the Caribbean there was no such prohibition on the trafficking of Native Americans to Spain and the slave markets of the Mediterranean where trading of kidnapped/captured people continued until the middle of the nineteenth century.

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

LIFE

PAGE 33

Harvesting your cannabis; Nature’s sweetest bounty SEAN SEURATTAN sean@carib101.com

THE HEIGHTENED CHEF

As the days grow shorter and the nights grow cooler, it is soon time to say goodbye to the plants you’ve been tending to all season. If you’ve done well, your plants are tall and sturdy with thick stalks and extensive roots. They have no small growth or leaves except for a few big fan leaves that capture just enough sun to keep it fed. Your buds are big, sticky to the touch and probably smelling fantastic from a mile away.

Finally, the fruits of your labour have come to bear, but the journey isn’t quite complete. Some of the most crucial steps remain before you can actually consume what you’ve been working so hard for. While the anticipation is tangi-

ble, shortcuts anywhere during the harvest process will negatively affect your crop.

The map of the final leg to your cannabis growing adventure essentially looks like this; harvest, trim, dry and cure.

While some steps are interchangeable, none are able to be skipped. Even the first step of harvesting requires a little preparation to maximize effectiveness.

Choosing when to harvest can be as simple, or as complicated as you wish to make it, but generally 2 - 4 weeks of the buds being at full maturity will produce all the THC you could want.

Three - five days before you plan to cut them down, you should strip the plant of anything that isn’t part of a bud. Also, starving the plant of water during this period is acceptable. This forces the plant into panic mode and all its energy and nutrients are focused on bud production.

The best time to cut is in the afternoon before the sun goes down and the plant goes into its feeding cycle for the night.

For most growers the next step can be the most dreaded throughout the entire growing life cycle; trimming. This

labour-intensive process can be long and tedious especially depending on the size of your crop. Anything that looks like a leaf must be removed down to its stem from each bud so that only that fluffy plant matter remains. This is harder than it sounds as the buds are covered in the sticky resin that you’re dying to consume.

A trusty pair of curved trimming scissors and rubber gloves are essential for tackling the challenge ahead. You should be collecting the resin that will get stuck to your scissors and fingers but in the event, it gets too much, rubbing alcohol will make short work of any sticky mess. The finer you can manicure the buds without damaging them will ultimately have the largest effect on your end product. Some can become compulsive about this leading to many extra hours of trimming because even the least leaves and stems affect taste and smoothness.

Drying your cannabis is an interchangeable step. This can be done before or after trimming with pros and cons to either. Live trim can better preserve bud integrity but can be more work due

to difficulty in handling. Dry trim is less work handling, but buds are easily damaged if scissor work isn’t precise. Regardless, your cannabis should be dried for at least 10 days in a cool, dry area with a somewhat regular air flow.

Hanging your branches upside down allows gravity to do the work of pulling every last nutrient in the stems towards the buds. This step is not complete until most of the moisture in the buds is gone.

The final step of curing your cannabis is often where shortcuts happen most but is still a crucial step. Removing the very last of any moisture left while preserving the terpenes that give smell and taste can completely change how enjoyable your buds are to consume.

Curing should take place in an airtight container for at least 10 days with air being cycled quickly once per day. Once curing is complete, a moisture pack or even a simple citrus peel can be used to prevent cannabis from becoming over dry.

Enjoy, consume responsibly and don’t forget to share!

PAGE 34

LIFE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Market value or municipal assessment: what’s the difference?

Are you preparing to become a homeowner? Are you wondering about the difference between the market value and municipal assessment amounts for the homes you’re viewing? Here’s a guide to help you understand the distinction between the two.

Municipal assessment The municipal assessment is an estimate made by local government authorities of the value of a property for taxation purposes. This number is used to determine the amount of taxes the owner must pay.

Market value The market value represents the price at which a property can be bought or sold on the open market. Ideally set by a real estate appraisal professional, this

number is determined by supply and demand, plus factors like location, condition, unique features, local amenities and real estate trends.

In a nutshell, municipal assessment is carried out to establish property tax amounts, often based on comparable data and standardized criteria. In contrast, market value is used to estimate the sale price of a property and is affected by market conditions and the property’s characteristics.

With this knowledge, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the market and find the property best suited to your situation. When considering your purchase budget, remember to rely on the market value rather than the municipal assessment.

Purchase offers: what you need to know

Have you spotted a property you’d like to own? Are you unsure how to make an offer to purchase? Here’s an overview of the process.

Purchase amount Firstly, to make a competitive offer, it’s important to get an accurate assessment of the property’s value. A real estate broker can assist with this by providing market metrics and other factors that contribute to a property’s valuation.

Financing conditions If you need a mortgage to finance the purchase, your offer should include financing terms. These terms should specify details such as the amount of credit you’ll be using, the maximum acceptable interest rate and the loan duration.

Closing date The closing date is the day when the

transaction will be finalized, and you officially become the owner of the property. This date can be negotiated, but both the seller and the buyer must agree on it.

Security deposit When you make an offer to purchase, the owner may request a security deposit, which is a pledge of your serious intention to buy the property. This deposit is typically held in a trust account until the sale is completed.

Response time Lastly, the offer to purchase usually specifies a time frame for the owner to respond with an acceptance, refusal or counteroffer.

There you have it! Now you’re ready to make a legitimate offer to purchase.

real estate offers investors a stores and restaurants, to name a few.

The big three: Commercial unique opportunity to diversify their port- Those who invest in service-oriented proand generate stable long-term in- perties benefit from the popularity of brickexploring retail, office folios come. There are three main categories of and-mortar businesses, which persists in properties: industrial buil- the face of online commerce. The success and industrial real estate commercial dings, service and retail properties and of- of such investments relies heavily on choofice buildings. Each of these plays a vital role in the market. Which type catches your interest?

1. Industrial buildings A major section of the commercial real estate market, industrial buildings include large-scale facilities like warehouses, factories, production sites and distribution outlets. These properties are generally designed to meet the particular needs of manufacturing and logistics companies.

Investors opting for industrial buildings often benefit from a stable income based on long-term leases with reliable tenants.

2. Service and retail properties Properties that house customer-facing businesses include shopping malls, retail

sing strategic locations with high visibility and easy access.

3. Office buildings Office buildings also make up a major portion of commercial properties. These buildings are designed to offer workspace for different kinds of organizations, including businesses, foundations and public service departments in size and quality, ranging from prestigious office towers to modest street-level structures.

Investors who carefully evaluate their opportunities in all these categories find they can maximize their return and build an attractive portfolio in commercial real estate.

Contact a commercial real estate broker to unlock your investment potential.

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

REAL ESTATE

PAGE 35

The perfect storm is brewing and can topple the housing market JAY BRIJPAUL brijpaul@carib101.com

REAL ESTATE PRO

Imagine this: homeowners are in a tight spot, dealing with hefty mortgages and sky-high interest rates. When the pandemic hit, lots of folks went for those seemingly sweet low variable rates. Fast forward to today, and guess what? The monthly mortgage payment is turning into a real headache. Even those who went for the stability of fixed rates are feeling the pinch when it’s time to renew. It’s like everyone’s on the same wobbly boat. To top it off, living costs are soaring, but incomes? Well, they’re more like a slow drip than a steady flow.

Brace yourself for the financial storm— there’s a recession on the horizon.

Let’s take a stroll down memory lane to the late 1980s—a time when the housing market had a familiar vibe to what we’re experiencing now. Back then, interest rates were on a steady climb, creating a buzz of excitement among first-time homebuyers. Predictably, prices soared.

Fast forward to 2023, and our interest rates have more than doubled since the pandemic lows, causing a similar surge in house prices. The dream of owning a home still burns bright among first-time buyers, but the reality is a bit harsh—they’re finding it tough to afford. Consequently, many

are putting their home-search on pause.

It’s like a gentle domino effect—the moment a first-time buyer secures a home, a seller is ready to snag another. So, hold tight, because as the market adjusts, we’re in for an interesting ride.

In my role as a realtor, I’ve been witnessing a real three-pronged challenge: soaring interest rates, dwindling affordability, and a cloud of uncertainty that seems to be growing. Just the other day, I sat down with a lovely, retired couple whose monthly income danced around $2,350. They’ve got a mortgage of $175,000, but with the recent interest rate spike, their monthly payment went from $1090.00 to a hefty $1866.00. Add in the rising property taxes, insurance, and utility bills, and you’ve got a recipe for some serious financial tightrope walking.

It’s not just them, though—many families out there are feeling the pinch.

As September rolled in, we saw a 12% dip in sales compared to August. At the same time, fresh properties on the market shot up by a whopping 32%. Crunching the numbers, the sales to new listing ratio (snlr) for September hit 28.6%, pointing right at a buyer’s market. In real estate lingo, a balanced market usually swings between 4060%, and anything above 60% is a seller’s playground. If this trend keeps grooving into October, we might just be on the brink of a full-on recession.

Here’s the scoop: more folks, 20% more are feeling the squeeze financially.

According to Equifax, the delinquency rate soared by 26.3% in the last year. Now, check this out—71% of homeowners with

a home equity line of credit (HELOC) missed payments compared to the same time last year. It’s a bit of a financial jigsaw puzzle, but it helps paint a picture of what some folks are going through.

Quick tip for first-time buyers and investors: keep your eyes wide open, great deals are on the horizon. Prep with a preapproved mortgage and stash some cash for the perfect moment. Sellers dig certainty, especially in a market dip—they might just nod at a lower price if you bring an offer without financial conditions. Homeowners on the brink of mortgage trouble, explore options before selling; renting a

room can help financially, but privacy takes a hit. It’s a market dance, find your rhythm!

Good news ahead! This recession will be brief and gentle. By mid-2024, interest rates will drop, and with a growing population and high rental demand, homes will stay popular among first-time buyers and investors. Towards the end of this year, home sales may dip, leading to lower prices. Around early 2024, prices could drop by about 6%, offering buyers a chance to strike a fair deal without the bidding wars. Some areas might see prices fall, while others stay steady. Get ready for positive changes!

PAGE 36

HOME

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Choose the perfect blinds for every room in your home In addition to regulating the amount of natural light entering a room, blinds allow you to enjoy more privacy. Here are a few tips to help you choose the ideal blinds for each room in your home.

How to choose the right ceiling fan for your home The ceiling fan is a simple and economical solution for cooling a room in the summertime, circulating the air in winter, and possibly even providing lighting. Here are a few tips to help you choose the most suitable model for your space.

Blades: The greater the angle of incline, the more powerful the device’s motor will be. The diameter of the fan blades also impacts its efficiency. Consequently, the length of fan blades must correspond to the size of the room. It’s less important how many blades there are on the fan; it’s more important that their size be compatible with the space in your room.

Downrod: Ensure the distance between the fan and the floor is about seven or eight feet. If your ceiling is more than nine-feet high, you must choose a fan with a longer downrod so you can set the blades to an appropriate height from the floor.

Activation: You can choose from several control options to adjust the fan’s speed. For example, if you choose a wall switch, you must install an electrical connection.

However, you can also find models that come with a remote control or manual chain that hangs from the device.

Style: This decision depends entirely on your taste.

How¬ever, make sure the fan you choose matches other elements and materials in the room, like the metal on the door handles and light fixtures. Keep in mind that lacquered blades are easy to clean, which you’ll appreciate if you’re installing the fan in the kitchen.

Lighting: You can also integrate your lighting directly into your fan and replace the bulbs as needed. If you choose this option, make your selection according to the types of bulbs you prefer.

Bedroom If you want a good night’s sleep, opt for blackout window coverings that provide thermal insulation, such as aluminum Venetian blinds. You could also consider fabric blinds to add a touch of softness to your decor.

Living room Venetian blinds are a great choice for the living room. You can play with different fabrics and patterns to add style to your living space. Roman and vertical blinds also look great in this room.

Bathroom Vinyl blinds are a winning choice for this humid room. You can also find PVC blinds that look just like wood, an ideal option to create a serene feel.

Kitchen Aluminum Venetian blinds are often recommended for kitchens because they’re easy to maintain and can withstand moisture. Fabric roller blinds can also create a cozy

atmosphere.

Can’t decide between several options? The team at your local drapery shop will be happy to help.

Installing a shelf: what you need to consider Do you want to make the most of the space in your home while adding a touch of style? Installing a shelf is a great idea. Here are a few tips.

• Choose a location. Think about the shelf’s intended use and how it will fit into your space. Make sure you select a solid, stable wall that doesn’t have any electrical wiring, pipes or other hidden obstacles behind it.

• Gather the tools and materials. Before you start the installation, make sure you have the necessary tools and materials, such as a drill, level and tape measure, as well as anchors and screws.

• Measure and mark. Accurately measure the length and height of the shelf and mark the mounting points on the

wall. Use a level to ensure the shelf sits perfectly straight.

• Install the mounting brackets. Start by drilling pilot holes in the marked mounting holes. Then, insert wall anchors into the holes and attach the brackets with the corresponding screws.

• Place the shelf. Place the shelf on the mounting brackets.

Make sure the shelf is still level. Use screws to secure the shelf to the brackets.

Installing a shelf is a relatively simple task if you pay attention to the details. Your local home improvement store can provide all the necessary tools, materials and advice to complete your project successfully.

FUN

Wednesday, October 25, 2023 | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 37

WEEK OF OCTOBER 22 TO OCTOBE 28, 2023

ARIES

The luckiest signs this week: ARIES, TAURUS AND GEMINI

If you’re single, you may receive several invitations to go out. Social media may help you find new friends and expand your clientele because they showcase what you have to offer.

TAURUS

You’ll have to take on numerous responsibilities. Your ability to keep yourself organized will improve, and you’ll be highly effective. Time will be a precious resource and may even become a source of anxiety.

PUZZLE NO. 800 ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 800

HOW TO PLAY :

GEMINI

Simply by dreaming and applying the laws of attraction, you can make your next trip a reality. Additionally, the discoveries you’ll make could be beneficial on a professional level.

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

CANCER

The emotions in the air are palpable. Fortunately, they’ll stimulate your creativity. You’ll also have to take care of your loved ones, thus strengthening your relationship and resulting in future reciprocity.

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

LEO

It’s easier to come to an agreement with people to whom you don’t have an emotional attachment. Children may try to take advantage of your highly sensitive nature to gain certain privileges from you.

PUZZLE NO. 90 47. Villain 51. October stone 54. On the cutting ____ 57. Adam’s wife 58. Official helper 59. Food fish 60. Male or female 61. Bassoon, e.g.

62. James Brown’s music 63. Gallery offering

ACROSS 1. Mom’s fellow 4. Strait-laced 8. Quote 12. Wintry 13. Talk wildly 14. Opera tune 15. “Look ____ ye leap” 16. Forewarning

17. Lincoln coin 18. Conditions 20. Morse code symbol 22. Long fish 24. Records 28. Creeps 31. Copied 34. Assembled 35. Avails

36. Lock opener 37. Soft drink 38. Ump’s relative 39. “Chicago” star 40. Hideous 41. Louisiana marsh 43. Mock 45. Troublesome tyke

DOWN 1. Say no to seconds 2. Land measurement 3. One who colors 4. Not poetry 5. Barnyard animal 6. “____ Got Sixpence” 7. Heal 8. Desert plants 9. Bitter resentment 10. ____ can 11. Chew and swallow 19. Army cafeteria 21. Secondhand 23. Huron, e.g.

25. Haze 26. Relate, as a story 27. Stick around 28. Sidewalk border 29. On a voyage 30. Challenge 32. ____ your request 33. Observer 37. Mince 39. Mouth part

42. Greased 44. Best 46. Household animals 48. Flat hill 49. Concluded 50. Succeeding 51. Paddle’s kin 52. Baked dessert 53. Citrus cooler 55. Twins 56. Large antelope

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 90

VIRGO

You may experience increased discomfort for some unknown reason.

In any case, it could allow you to benefit more quickly from the expertise of specialists and get the necessary treatment.

LIBRA

You’ll accomplish a feat that fills you with pride, thus reinforcing your self-esteem and contributing to your well-being. Additionally, you may be able to rescue someone from a difficult situation.

SCORPIO

If you make changes in your diet, you could achieve your health goals faster. You’ll have the motivation to launch a small business from the comfort of your home.

SAGITTARIUS

You’ll have lots of chats, and your loved ones will frequently try to contact you to invite you to exciting activities. If your relationship is new, you’ll need to give some thought to the idea of living together or starting a family.

CAPRICORN

At work, you’ll be given a promotion and a pay raise. However, you may be surrounded by jealous colleagues, so exercise discretion. You’ll take pleasure in a romantic revival.

AQUARIUS

You’ll have an opportunity to spend time with your loved ones. Your sensitivity and generosity are appreciated. Organize your time to turn your responsibilities into pleasant moments, even in professional matters.

PISCES

You’ll go through a period when reflection will be crucial. You’ll also have increased creativity, which will prove good for morale. Get outside for fresh air every now and then.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING

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No Cash Anna 416-729-4772

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Some restrictions may apply. We reserve the right of refusal.

HELP WANTED

WAREHOUSE ASSOCIATE 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

FOR RENT

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SHARED ACCOMADATIONS: 2 bedroom available, male preferred. No parking available ,no smoking or drinking. Utilities Included. $900 per month. Islington and Steeles.

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

Call 416-650-9558.

LOOKING FOR WORK LOOKING FOR A JOB: 29 years old male looking for a looking for a job. Sanjay 437-484-5151

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

SALES REPS WANTED

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

Give Your Children an Edge!

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+ A

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Whether you want to stay on track or soar ahead, let us create your success story!

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PAGE 40

BUSINESS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

When should I start saving for retirement?

The short answer: immediately. But what it means to start saving for retirement is different for everyone. What’s essential is knowing what you want your retirement to be like and making a plan to get there. Here are three questions to ask yourself when planning for the future: 1. How long do I want to work?

Some people can’t wait to retire, while others have a hard time imagining their life without work. How long you’d like to work will drastically affect how you plan for reti-

rement.

2. What do I want to do in retirement?

On average, we’re living longer lives than ever before. Retirement is now a significant and potentially richly rewarding period of your life. Do you want to spend it travelling?

Devoting yourself to your family? What you want to do will determine your financial needs.

3. Are my expectations realistic?

If your retirement is still far in the future,

you can expect that your situation will change in ways you didn’t expect, both good and bad. At the same time, it’s probably not a good idea to wait around for a miracle to happen to increase your savings.

Be honest about what you want for retirement and what you need to do to get there.

No matter how you envision your retirement, you can be sure that having a plan early will help you toward a more certain and stable path to financial security once you exit the workforce.

What young Canadians should know about RRSPs What is an RRSP? A Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) is a type of savings account that you can set up with a financial institution such as a bank and that’s registered with the Canadian government. There are special rules relating to how you and the government can treat money contributed to this kind of plan.

What is it for?

An RRSP is meant to encourage you to save money in the long term by earning interest

on the money you’ve contributed. If you contribute money from your salary to your RRSP, that money can also be deducted from the income taxes you file yearly.

Furthermore, the money you put in an RRSP isn’t subject to taxes until you withdraw it, so it grows faster than in other types of accounts.

Why is it a good idea?

Because of the special tax exemption rules, an RRSP is typically considered to be a safe and steady way to grow your money over a

long period of time. If you’re far in your future, you may want to consider a higher-risk account, like a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA), in addition to an RRSP. Once you get closer to retirement and value security over growth, the RRSP is a more reliable choice.

An RRSP is just one of many strategies that can make your money work for you. The sooner you start investing in your own future, the sooner you’ll be able to feel secure in your financial life.

Five ways to meet your savings goals Whether you’re saving for retirement or a house, having a savings goal is an essential part of financial stability. Between unexpected illnesses and little weekly luxuries, however, meeting that goal isn’t always an easy task. Here are five tips to help you stay on track: 1. Get invested in your savings. The more educated and active you are when it comes to making your money work for you, the more it will feel like an accomplishment to see your savings increase.

2. Set savings milestones, and budget in a reward for yourself when you meet them.

luxuries you buy as long the costs stay within budget.

3. Prevent yourself from spending if you have to. Credit card issuers and banks now have lots of ways for you to enforce spending limits on yourself. Don’t be embarrassed to take advantage of them if you feel they might help.

5. Be open to new plans. A savings plan is just a rough draft. While you should remain focused on a specific savings goal, don’t be afraid to change your method along the way if an opportunity presents itself. Once you have more experience with money management, you might take on more risk than when you’re just starting out.

4. Don’t worry too much about your luxuries. What matters is how much you’re spending on luxuries like clothes or fancy dinners. Don’t feel bad about what type of

With a combination of planning and flexibility, anyone can meet their savings goals.

Some things Canadian seniors should know about their finances No matter how old you are, planning for your financial well-being as a senior is a good idea. Whether you choose to continue working or to retire, your relationship to your money will inevitably change as you get older. It may not be the most exciting topic, but your financial plan will be the foundation for many of your decisions in years to come. Here are two important issues to consider about financial planning: Decide who will have power of attorney It’s important to consider who should be given power of attorney in case something

unforeseen happens that renders you unable to manage your finances. It’s essential to have a plan in place to ensure that your wishes will be honoured and to prevent confusion amongst your loved ones. Choosing who will be responsible for your finances is a serious decision, and there are many different ways to divide responsibilities. Be sure to weigh all your options and consult with a professional before making this decision.

Consider a joint bank account If you’re interested in sharing only some of

the burden of financial management with a loved one, you can also consider setting up a joint bank account and dividing certain financial responsibilities between yourself and someone you trust to look after your interests.

Mixing family (or friends) and finances can be tricky. No matter how much you trust someone, always prioritize your own best interests and take every precaution that you would with a third party.

From Grit to Glory.

Engage in free October events to mark and celebrate the bicentennial of the birth of Mary Ann Shadd Cary—Canada’s first female publisher and the first Black woman in North America to publish and edit a newspaper, The Provincial Freeman.

Learn more at toronto.ca/MaryAnnShaddCary

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AUTOMOTIVE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TorontoCaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

How to prepare for a garage visit Are you getting ready to make an appointment at your local garage? To get the most out of your visit, it’s a good idea to be well prepared. Here’s some expert advice.

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Make a list of items needing attention. Drive your vehicle for a few minutes, keeping your eyes and ears open. Make a note of anything that troubles you. Are your brakes making funny noises?

Is a dashboard component malfunctioning? Do your windshield wipers leave streaks? Give your mechanic a comprehensive list, so you can avoid having to schedule another appointment in the near future.

Read the owner’s manual. Your car’s owner’s manual contains the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations. Once you’ve read it, you can tell your mechanic which tasks you’d like them to

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address. This will also help you avoid paying for unnecessary or non-urgent work.

Bring the necessary parts to the garage. If you’ve made an appointment for a tire change, don’t forget to bring your winter bolt kit, if necessary. Additionally, if your vehicle is equipped with a block heater that requires an electric cable, be sure to have it with you.

Learn the meaning of common terms. If you’re not familiar with the technical terms and jargon used in car maintenance, consult a website specializing in this field.

You’ll be better able to understand your mechanic’s explanations and actively participate in discussions.

With the right preparation, your garage appointment will be much more efficient.

Choosing your winter tires: trust the pros Do you need to buy new winter tires? To ensure they fit your car properly, you’ll need to make an informed choice. And who better to guide you than your local automotive professionals? Here’s why.

Selecting the right winter tires for your vehicle can be challenging, especially if you lack automotive expertise.

For example, many vehicle owners tend to make blind decisions when choosing winter tires, such as opting for the model that’s on sale. Making the wrong choice can lead to increased safety risks on the highway.

Winter tires are designed for use during the cold season, but some are specially designed for driving in specific winter road conditions. For example, snow tires are more suited to snow-covered surfaces, and ice tires are designed to handle icy roads.

What’s more, some models have

features that allow for easier handling around corners. If you regularly drive on winding roads, this factor could sway your decision towards a particular product.

It’s also essential to know the tire size recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. A professional can easily get this information and recommend tire models that are an ideal fit for your car.

Get expert advice Visit a tire retailer for the best and most personalized advice on your options. A tire expert will inquire about your budget, typical mileage and the types of roads you frequently drive on to help you select a set of tires most suitable for your specific needs. This ensures you invest in high-quality tires that enhance your driving experience and safety.

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