“The world, as we know it, is teetering on the precipice of change. While our attention is diverted by the glitz and glamour of celebrity culture, the heated debates of political campaigns...”
DR. DONETTE CHIN-LOY CHANG
Distinguished Communication Leader, Prolific Philanthropist and Acclaimed Public Affairs Strategist
The announcement that Jamaican-born philanthropist Dr. Donette Chin-Loy Chang will be the new chancellor of Toronto Metropolitan University is a fitting culmination of her years of association with the university. She is the sixth chancellor and first alumna to be chancellor and was installed on October 15th, 2024 for an initial three-year term. Dr.Chin-Loy Chang graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Arts degree in Journalism from TMU in 1978.
At her installation, Chancellor Chin -Loy Chang pledged to be an ambassador and advocate for TMU and to take on the challenges wherever she is needed, as well, to engage with communities, partners and all stakeholders. She further stated: “Together with the extraordinary TMU leadership, I pledge to give support in building and rebuilding the bridges that connect us all. I love this university. I accept the challenge and look forward to continuing to serve in any way I am able. TMU always challenges the status quo with bold and innovative action, responding to the needs of learners in an ever-changing world. I accept this role with great humility and am proud to be part of an extraordinary community that truly values excellence, equity and reconciliation.”
I interviewed her recently regarding her new role as Chancellor at TMU. She told me that her parents were her primary examples of life and her teachers at Immaculate Conception High School in Kingston, Jamaica were significant role models. She mentioned that the importance of discipline and order were values that were inculcated in all the students at the prominent all-girls Catholic high school. “There was a strong sense of civic duties and responsibilities that reflected the distinguished learning at Immaculate,” she stated.
She excelled in the arts - English, English Literature, Geography and History. Her excellent writing skills prepared her to be a journalist, “TMU graduates are prepared for the job on day one and are
sought after by industry leaders.”
She started her journalism career as a reporter-producer with CBC Radio and headed the overseas division of Radio Canada International in Toronto. In the 1980’s she worked with the global public relations firm Ruder Finn and Rotman and was assigned to the government of Jamaica and the Prime Minister’s office.
Chancellor Chin-Loy Chang is the recipient of an honorary degree from TMU and from the University of the West Indies. Her involvement with TMU includes:
• Funding scholarships and well-being initiatives
• Establishing bursaries at the DMZ, The Chang School and the Lincoln Alexander School of Law
• Creating an emergency fund for students during the pandemic
• Contributing to the Viola Desmond Awards program and the President’s Awards to Champion Equity campaign
President Mohamed Lachemi states, “Donette has been a valued member of the TMU community for decades. Through her work and support for equity-focused organizations and her commitment to education, she continues to make her mark in improving the lives of those around her. We are pleased that she will continue to strengthen her relationship with TMU in her newest role as our chancellor.”
Chancellor Chin-Loy Chang ‘s leadership and philanthropic endeavors over the years reflect her selfless devotion to many social justice causes. These include:
• Former co-chair of Food For the Poor Canada
• Co-patron of the University of the West Indies Annual Benefit Awards
• Member of the Dean’s Advisory Board for TMU’s Faculty of Community Services
• TMU’s Renaming Committee member
• Board director for the BlackNorth Initiative and the Toronto International Film Festival
• Chair of TMU’s AntiAsian Taskforce
In her convocation address she implored the class of 2024, “Be courageous; understand that everyone you meet will impact your life in ways you never imagined. Where you start is not always where you will end. Stay focused because distractions abound – you will fail once, twice, three times…but be steadfast, get up, brush yourself off and get on with it!
“Be kind, be compassionate. Keep an open mind. Honour your elders and ancestors. Live with no regrets. Remember there are always silver linings in adversity. Walk with queens and kings and never lose the common touch. Stand up for right and be a changemaker for good. You have earned this day – through your perseverance and passion – through real TMU GRIT. But remember, take time to enjoy it.”
Her late husband G. Raymond Chang, OC, OJ, was the third Chancellor of Toronto Metropolitan University.Together they shared a vision of a better world where: education, health and social justice in all things, were accessible to all. They have never forgotten their roots and their global philanthropy also extends to Jamaica the land of their birth. About 16 years ago, they co-founded the University of the West Indies Awards, to raise funds for students in dire need, across the Caribbean. To date 1,000 scholarships have been awarded and over 100 outstanding individuals and organizations have been
Written by Paul Junor Toronto Caribbean News
“The Pfizer Papers!” Documentation of worldwide genocide
We are living in a world where promises of health and safety came packaged in a tiny vial, one injection was promoted by powerful governments, supported by respected institutions, and championed by legacy media worldwide. Sadly, beneath the surface, a darker truth emerged.
Reports from around the globe began to tell a different story—one that was not covered in the news cycles or press conferences. Families torn apart by unexpected losses, communities impacted in ways that few could have foreseen, and millions questioning what they had been told to believe.
Those who dared to question were silenced or dismissed (the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper being one of those sources). “Trust the science,” we were told. “It’s for the greater good.” As time went on, the truth became impossible to ignore.
Now, I bring more news to light— information that demands your attention and scrutiny. The time to passively listen has passed; this is the moment to understand what’s really at stake.
I reviewed an interview with Naomi Wolf, journalist and CEO of Daily Clout, which detailed the serious vaccine-related injuries that Pfizer and the FDA knew of by
early 2021, but tried to hide from the public. I was introduced to “The Pfizer Papers: Pfizer’s Crimes Against Humanity.” What I learned is that Pfizer knew about the inadequacies of its COVID-19 vaccine trials and the vaccine’s many serious adverse effects, and so did the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA promoted the vaccines anyway — and later tried to hide the data from the public.
To produce “The Pfizer Papers,” Naomi, and Daily Clout Chief Operations Officer Amy Kelly convened thousands of volunteer scientists and doctors to analyze Pfizer data and supplementary data from other public reporting systems to capture the full scope of the vaccines’ effects. They obtained the data from the Public Health and Medical Professionals for Transparency, a group of more than 30 medical professionals and scientists who sued the FDA in 2021 and forced the agency to release the data, after the FDA refused to comply with a Freedom of Information Act request.
It was then that the federal court ordered the agency to release 450,000 internal documents pertaining to the licensing of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. The data release was significantly and the documents so highly technical and scientific that according to Naomi, “No journalist could have the bandwidth to go through them all.”
The “Pfizer Papers” analysts found over 42,000 case reports detailing 158,893 adverse events reported to Pfizer in the first three months The centerpiece of “The Pfizer Papers” is the effect that the vaccine had on human reproduction. The papers reveal that Pfizer knew early on that the shots
were causing menstrual issues. The company reported to the FDA that 72% of the recorded adverse events were in women. Of those, about 16% involved reproductive disorders and functions. In the clinical trials, thousands of women experienced: daily bleeding, hemorrhaging, and passing of tissue, and many other women reported that their menstrual cycle stopped completely.
Pfizer was aware that lipid nanoparticles from the shots accumulated in the ovaries and crossed the placental barrier, compromising the placenta and keeping nutrients from the baby in utero. According to the data, babies had to be delivered early, and women were hemorrhaging in childbirth.
Let us take us to another part of the world, where research has been done on other pharmaceutical companies. A group of Argentine scientists identified 55 chemical elements — not listed on package inserts — in the: Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, CanSino, Sinopharm and Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccines (according to a study published last week in the International Journal of Vaccine Theory, Practice, and Research).
The samples also contained 11 of the 15 rare earth elements (they are heavier, silvery metals often used in manufacturing). These chemical elements, which include lanthanum, cerium and gadolinium, are lesser known to the general public than heavy metals, but have been shown to be highly toxic. By the end of 2023, global researchers had identified 24 undeclared chemical elements in the COVID-19 vaccine formulas.
Vaccines often include excipients — additives used as preservatives, adju-
vants, stabilizers, or for other purposes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), substances used in the manufacture of a vaccine, but not listed in the contents of the final product should be listed somewhere in the package insert. Why is this important? Well, researchers argue it is because excipients can include allergens and other “hidden dangers” for vaccine recipients.
In one lot of the AstraZeneca vaccine, researchers identified 15 chemical elements, of which 14 were undeclared. In the other lot, they detected 21 elements of which 20 were undeclared. In the CanSino vial, they identified 22 elements, of which 20 were undeclared.
The three Pfizer vials contained 19, 16 and 21-23 undeclared elements respectively. The Moderna vials contained 21 and between 16-29 undeclared elements. The Sinopharm vials contained between 17-23 undeclared elements and the Sputnik V contained between 19-25 undetected elements.
“All of the heavy metals detected are linked to toxic effects on human health,” the researchers wrote. Although the metals occurred in different frequencies, many were present across multiple samples.
I am not going to go any further with this; I think you get the picture. We have been sold wolf cookies, very dangerous ones. These pharmaceutical companies must be held accountable. I am proud of anyone who has gone after them for retribution, and have received it. Regardless, in many ways, there is no repayment for a healthy life.
A world where giants roamed; dinos alive; an immersive experience
Our two young representatives Daz, and Sal bravely took a trip to a land adorned with prehistoric ferns and towering trees. In the distance, they heard the sounds of distant roars, and the soft hum of animatronics filled the air.
They were welcomed to a world lost in time. A world where giants roamed, and danger lurked around every corner. They begin to wander through a lush, prehistoric forest. Towering Brachiosaurus necks pierce the canopy, while a herd of Stegosaurus graze peacefully. A T-Rex emerges from the undergrowth, its menacing roar echoing through the forest. Daz, and Sal gasped in awe and excitement.
Suddenly, the scene transitions to a dimly lit, underwater environment. A massive Plesiosaur glides gracefully through the water, its long neck stretching towards the surface. A Mosasaurus, its jaws wide open, lunges at a smaller marine reptile. The children watch in breathless anticipation.
They put on VR headsets and are transported to a prehistoric world. The children dodge flying Pterodactyls and narrowly escape the clutches of a Velociraptor.
Step into a world dominated by colossal creatures. Witness the gentle giants of the Jurassic period. Dive into the depths of the prehistoric oceans and encounter the fearsome creatures that ruled the waves. Uncover the secrets of the past and become a paleontologist for a day. Immerse yourself in a virtual reality experience and come faceto-face with the most terrifying predators. I am talking about an exciting exhibition that opened up in October called Dinos Alive: An Immersive Experience
I want to first thank our young explorers for visiting Dinos Alive and sharing their experience with us. I also had an opportunity to speak with Eric Paquette (Spokesman for Dinos Alive, and he shared a little bit more with me. “It was catered for Toronto. It has been around the world, and has been carefully curated for this market. We didn’t want to just put dinosaurs in an exhibit.”
“There are photo ops galore,” Eric tells me. “There are so many dinosaurs. Ex-
hibition Hub flew from Brussels and they created something great for families in an environment that kids don’t know they are learning. It starts with smaller dinosaurs, and we build off of that. Attention span of children is shorter, and the more impressive dinosaur comes as you walk through the exhibit. A kid’s perspective is very different from ours. The magic is when they scale themselves to the dinosaurs. They are mesmerized by it all. They are trying to understand the dynamics of it all.”
“There are mainstream dinosaurs, but there are some surprises. You will have to come and see.”
“What other types of technology are used to create the immersive experience,” I asked?
“There are so many cool technological elements in the experience: there is an aquarium and a room with projections with prehistoric beasts that you would have found million years ago. There are balls on the floor, and the projections interact with the movement. For just a moment, the children are involved. We have the sketch and post, and you can see your creation coming alive as a dinosaur. Then there is VR, and it puts you right into the experience. You can get tricked so easily to believe that it is real.”
“I have one more question Eric, how does the exhibition encourage children to become interested in science and paleontology?”
“Children have passions, and sometimes they don’t know where they land. It is entertaining and engaging, but they are learning. It makes you want to see and understand what is around you. There are plaque cards that are easy to read. It helps you appreciate what is around you.”
Unleash your child’s inner explorer at Dinos Alive! Book your adventure today.
Opening Hours: (Time Slots Available Every Half Hour):
• Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays: From 9:00 To 18:00
• Tuesdays: Closed
• Fridays: From 10:00 To 19:00
• Saturdays: From 9:00 To 19:00
• Sundays: From 9:00 To 17:00
Duration: The Visit Will Take Around 45-70
Minutes
Location: 30 Hanover Road, North York, Ontario, M3K 0E2, Downsview Airport Lands (YZD), Toronto
Age Requirement: All Ages!
Mark Golding: Maintaining the PNP’s relevance in a rapidly changing political and economic landscape
SIMONE SMITH
simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
On Wednesday, October 30th, 2024, Mark J. Golding, MP, the Leader of the Opposition in Jamaica was enthusiastically greeted by more than 300 Jamaicans in Toronto at a Town Hall meeting at the Jamaican Canadian Association.
The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited to be part of the welcoming crowd who listened attentively as Mr. Golding shared: his vision for the future of Jamaica, the ways in which Canadian Jamaicans can continue to work together for Jamaica, as well as his plans to better daily life for Jamaicans at home.
Leader of the Opposition Mr. Mark J. Golding is an attorney-at-law, specializing in the areas of: corporate finance, capital markets and mergers and acquisitions. He has been lead counsel in many public and private sector issues of domestic and international debt and equity securities, and in several large corporate mergers and acquisitions. In 2011, he took a leave of absence from Hart Muirhead Fatta, the firm of which he has been a partner since 1993, to assume his appointment as Minister of Justice.
Mr. Golding studied law at Oxford University, where he graduated with first class honours. Wishing to return home to practice, he attended the Norman Manley Law School in order to be called to the
Jamaican Bar and received its prize for the most outstanding student of the class of 1987-89. He then won a Commonwealth Scholarship and continued his studies at the University of London, obtaining a master’s degree in commercial and corporate law.
“I am a proud Jamaican, a son of the soil and a dedicated member of the People’s National Party,” Mr. Golding shares on his website. “My parents were champions in giving back to Jamaica especially in the disabilities community and I continue the family legacy through my own advocacy for disenfranchised persons and persons with disabilities. I am committed to using the law to protect rather than oppress people, as evidenced by my legislative performance.”
“Our common purpose must be the creation of a 21st century Jamaica that exemplifies and upholds the progressive principles of social justice and equality for all Jamaicans. This is the foundational purpose of the Party and its socialist roots. There is much more work to be done to eliminate the remaining structural inequalities within Jamaican society. To achieve this, we must live and promote the values of self-discipline, civic responsibility, and caring for and respecting others.”
The People’s National Party (PNP) is one of the oldest and most influential political parties in Jamaica. The year 1938 was a turning point in the history of modern Jamaica. Workers across the island began to demand better wages and working conditions, and the colonial government had no choice but to listen. Strikes by the sugar workers of Frome Estate in Westmoreland, by the dockworkers of the Standard Fruit Company in Kingston, by farmworkers in Islington, St. Mary led to mass rallies and public meetings, the likes of which had
never been seen on the island, not even the decade before during the height of Garveyism.
The People’s National Party was founded on September 18th, 1938, by Norman Washington Manley, a Rhodes Scholar, lawyer, and National Hero of Jamaica. The party emerged during a time of social and economic unrest in Jamaica. Norman Manley, an advocate for social justice, sought to address these inequalities and envisioned a political movement that would champion the rights of the working class while pushing for self-governance. Manley, along with a group of intellectuals, labor leaders, and activists, formed the PNP as a democratic socialist party. Its foundation was based on a commitment to social equality, workers’ rights, and the eventual goal of political independence for Jamaica.
As of 2024, the People’s National Party remains one of Jamaica’s two major political parties, alongside the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP). The party continues to advocate for policies that promote social justice, economic development, and sustainable governance. In recent years, the PNP has focused on addressing the economic and social challenges posed by globalization, climate change, and the digital age. The party’s leadership, headed by Mark Golding, faces the challenge of maintaining the PNP’s relevance in a rapidly changing political and economic landscape.
In his opening address to the audience, and speaking about Jamaica’s unique relationship with Canada, Mr. Golding shared, “Canada and Jamaica are very close. For us there is a special relationship with Canada. I was minister of Justice under (Prime Minister) Portia Miller Simpson from 2012 to 2016, and the Canadian government
helped us with the Justice Reform Program we were pushing through. Their support was very valuable.”
During the question-and-answer segment of the Town Hall, audience members posed questions to the Opposition Leader which ranged from: issues regarding Jamaican Farm Workers and the farm workers program in Canada, voting in Jamaica while outside of the country, healthcare, and managing the care of children with special needs in Jamaica.
On Friday November 1st, 2024, Mr. Golding visited the heart of the Jamaican community during a Walking Tour of Little Jamaica. I had a few moments with Mr. Golding, and my question to him was concerning the lack of youth involvement in politics.
“We have made efforts to involve youth in the movement,” Mr. Golding shared with me. “One of the questions that young people will always have in this day and age is ‘What is in this for me?’ There will need to be significantly greater mentoring, support, and inclusion to more effectively engage youths and young professionals across Jamaica and help shape the image and direction of the Party. The youth pool is growing, and we will continue to support them through political education, life skills training, and encouraging them to undertake meaningful tasks of engagement within their communities.”
The PNP continues to champion its core values of equity, justice, and peoplecentered development, while grappling with the need to modernize and adapt to new realities. Its legacy as a movement that has significantly shaped Jamaica’s national identity, labor rights, and governance remains a critical part of the island’s political narrative.
Centre of Excellence for Black Student hosts 3rd Annual Youth Participatory Action Research Conference
It was a great turnout at the third annual student-led Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) hosted by the Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement on Saturday, October 26th, 2024. It was held at the Kerr Hall Gymnasium at the Toronto Metropolitan University. The theme of the conference was, “It takes a Village: Nurturing and Celebrating Black Youth Identity in K-12 Schools and Community.” There were many Toronto District School Board (TDSB) teachers, students, and professors in attendance. There were booths from several local colleges present with representatives.
Tanitia Munroe, Senior Research Coordinator affiliated with the Centre and the Toronto District School Board (TDSB), describes the importance of YPAR. She states “It is a transformative approach that empowers students and drives social justice and educational change. By creating opportunities to hear from Black students, we provide educators with valuable insights into their unique aspirations and perspectives, while strengthening their: leadership, agency, academic achievement, and social and emotional well-being.”
The program states further that it serves as a tool to increase youth involvement in social movement organizing, generating renewed enthusiasm for social change, and creating new leadership opportunities. It involves young people gathering knowledge by identifying, researching, and addressing social problems through partnerships with adults.
The following are five YPAR skills that students develop based on Afrocentric paradigm and principles:
• African ways of knowing and existence result in the implantation of principles, methods, concepts, and ideas that are derived from our Africana cultural experiences (Mazama,2003).
• Black experiences are worthy of intellectual endeavors and with them come distinctive cultural and historical experiences (Kershaw,1992).
• An Afrocentric approach to research can be used to challenge the Eurocentric research methods that undermine the local knowledge and experiences of Black communities and groups (Mkabela,2005).
• For research to be relevant and thus improve the quality of life of Black people, it should be driven by their: worldviews, identities, intersectionalities, cultural values and a language that is relevant to them(Evans-Winters,2019).
• There is a recognition that individual and community assets are important when conducting research. (Asante,2007).
The hosts for the conference were: Meron Bayu (Youth Ambassador for Peacebuilders Canada and a first year student at the University of Toronto in Public Policy and International Relations(Hons), and Amontaya Mullings(Grade 11 student at Oasis Alternative Secondary School). The conference opened with a plenary session titled ,”It Takes a Village to Raise a Black Child: Understanding and Expanding the Concept of the “Village in K-12 Education.”
It featured six panelists: Dr. Njoki Wane (Distinguished scholar, educator and professor at Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto), Dr. Beverly-Jean Daniel(Director of the School of Child and Youth Care at Toronto Metropolitan University), Colleen Russell-Rawlins ( Director of Education for the Toronto District School Board), Misstura Brimah ( first year undergraduate in the Creative School at TMU), Ocean Ruel (Grade 12 student at Bloor Collegiate Institute), and Edna Nortey (Grade 12 student at William Lyon Mackenzie Collegiate Institute).
The theme for the morning session was, “Listening and Learning: Elevating Student Voice.” It featured four presenters.
The themes for the afternoon sessions were:
• Mental Health and Well-Being in Schools and Community
• Bridging Perspectives: Black Students in STEM
• Empowering Futures: Confronting Anti-Black Racism and Academic Achievement
• Beyond the Field: Promoting Equity in Sports & Extracurriculars
• Differentiated Instruction: Meeting the Needs of All Learners
• Listening and Learning: Elevating Student Voice
• Career Pathways: Building Roadmap for Our Future
There were reflection questions directed to the attendees:
• How can you contribute to building a supportive “village” for Black children in your own community?
• What challenges have you faced in trying to involve families and community members in the education of Black students?
• In what ways do you believe schools can better reflect the needs of the communities they serve?
• How can you measure the effectiveness of community involvement in the academic success of Black students?
There was a message from Tanitia Munroe posted on her Linked page on Saturday, October 26th. It reads, “I want to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended the third annual student YPAR Conference!” She elaborates further, “As Dr. Shawn Anthony Robinson poignantly states, ‘It takes a village to raise a child, it takes a community to nurture their identity.’ This underscores the collective responsibility we all share in uplifting and supporting our Black youth, fostering resilience, empowerment, and a profound sense of belonging.”
A night dedicated to networking, collaboration, and inspiration; Welcome to the Legacy Builder Event
SIMONE SMITH
simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
You get to shop and support local businesses from a vibrant BIPOC vendor community. As a VIP guest, you get a chance to experience an exclusive tasting experience from Milha & Co. Learn powerful strategies to “Kickstart Your Legacy” from McKie Rich, an industry expert and visionary. You have a chance to win incredible prizes throughout the night, and the music is curated just right by DJ Pogi and other guest DJs, who will keep the energy high as you dance the night away.
The Legacy Cave Team representing Oldowan Co. is proud to announce their 11th anniversary celebration at the Legacy Builder Event, a night dedicated to networking, collaboration, and inspiration.
Hosted at the Center for Social Innovation (192 Spadina Ave, Toronto), the com -
munity is invited to join them as they bring together: young community leaders, creatives, and professionals for an unforgettable evening celebrating the power of legacy building. It just so happens that this milestone event coincides with Founder Carol Douse’s birthday, which means that guests have an opportunity to celebrate her life, as well as indulge in a night of unforgettable networking opportunities.
Oldowan Co. has spent the last 11 years empowering BIPOC communities and fostering creative collaboration. With roots inspired by the ancient Oldowan era, the company is dedicated to using the right tools and resources to build legacies. The Legacy Cave Team: Sammi Ho (Strategic Development), Dahlia Fernandez (Listening Den, Focusing on the artist, and telling their stories), and Carol Douse, (Founder), have found a way to turn ordinary moments into extraordinary achievements by uplifting community talent and fostering connections that lead to lasting impact. For them, this event is not only a reflection of their journey, but also a bold step into the future as they continue to expand their impact.
I had to do some research to learn exactly what, and when the Oldowan era was. The appearance of simple stone tools, widely known as Oldowan Tools or the Oldowan industry, marked the beginning of our techno -
logical revolution. To our knowledge, these artifacts appeared around 2.6 million years ago in the savannahs of Eastern Africa. Today, the Oldowan is still the earliest, universally acknowledged stone tool industry. When I spoke with Founder Carol Douse, I began to understand the why behind Oldowan, and the appropriateness of the company’s moniker.
“We are all part of the growing and developing community,” Carol shares. “We all have the ability to provide something to help each other grow. We can develop our community into what we want it to be. We have to hone back into our natural given skills, the tools that have naturally been given to us. This celebration isn’t just about our past; it’s about the future we’re creating together. We want to inspire the next generation of community leaders and creators to build legacies that transcend time.”
“What unique elements have you incorporated into the event to make it memorable, I queried?”
“I would have to say that my favourite element of the event is our Legacy Builder Mixer Bingo: Here guests have a chance to: meet, connect, and collaborate in a fun and engaging way. Attendees will have the opportunity to network and build their dream teams while participating in this unique icebreaker. It sparks a little bit of fun. You get to meet the
person in the room, and it is not awkward. What we found is that people have kept this list and utilized it to collaborate with who they have met. It is a tangible takeaway.”
“How do you hope this event will contribute to the growth and development of the community?”
“We have done ourselves a disservice by not reaching out to people in our communities, and building together. You have a network that is ready for you to be abundant, but we have to be ready to take our seat at the table. We are opening up that table to you.”
Step into an evening of inspiration, connection, and legacy-building! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to celebrate, network, and elevate your journey alongside a vibrant community of changemakers. Whether you’re seeking to learn, connect, or leave a lasting impact, this event is for you!
Event Details: Date: November 16th, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM – 12:00 AM
Location: Center for Social Innovation, 192 Spadina Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2C2
For more information, or to become a vendor, sponsor, or volunteer, contact the team at oldowanco@gmail.com.
A lowdown push by Big Pharma, Facebook and Company to poison ethnic and racial minorities
MICHAEL THOMAS
michael@carib101.com TC
“If we do a good job with vaccines.” Can anyone remember this speaker and what he was trying to impart to his eager audience? Well, let me line things up for you.
Bill Gates, Big Pharma, Facebook, and the CDC (aka The Center for Disease Control) have all come together with their billions in illgotten gains to hire social media influencers to somehow encourage ethnic and racial minorities to take their “experimental injection.”
These billionaires have already spent over $156 million on over 500 organizations targeting racial and ethnic minorities across the U.S. to promote so-called vaccines in 2021 alone, and now they are upping the stakes.
Since 2021 the CDC has spent hundreds of millions of dollars in grants for the creation of “culturally tailored” pro-vaccine materials and for training “influential messengers”
to promote COVID-19 and flu injections to communities of colour.
Here is a list of donors that the CDC takes money from: Public Health Foundation, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the Rockefeller Foundation, the Pew Charitable Trusts, and Gavi, alongside most U.S. states. They also take money directly from companies like Merck and Pfizer, or from their philanthropic arms, such as: the Moderna Charitable Foundation, the Johnson & Johnson Foundation, the GlaxoSmithKline Foundation, and Merck for Mothers. Facebook’s parent company, Meta, and Google are on this list as well. Can anyone tell me what the credibility score is of any of the organizations mentioned above? What have they been involved with, especially in the last four and a half years?
What are their plans for humanity? I wonder if careful research is undertaken will these organizations be shown to be a part of agenda 2030? Is depopulation a staple of the agenda in which they are involved? I am just wondering.
When Bill Gates’ former wife Melinda Gates told the world that “Black people should get the injection first,” she was not playing. I have yet to encounter a criminal that does. As a people, we are being targeted for extinction by the injection cartel.
When these so-called organizations
offer hungry content creators and social media influencers money to push death on their people, how many of them are inclined to say “NO?” That is called strategic targeting. Let’s find out how this is done through the dangling of funds in the faces of needy people.
On Instagram, influencers with 1,00010,000 followers typically get paid $10-100 per post, with rates increasing as follower counts rise. Instagram influencers with over a million followers typically receive $10,000 and up per post.
On TikTok, rates start at $5-25 per post and can increase to $2,500 and up per post for people with over a million followers. Readers, Big Pharma plans to use this price guide to negotiate with social media influencers to push so-called vaccines on people of colour (aka Black and Brown folks).
Their plans suggest targeting midlevel influencers, those who are not overly famous and who are preferably “self-made” because they’re often seen as more relatable and trusted than large brands, or celebrities on social media.
Please listen to the craftiness of these pushers, “To maximize their online influence, the guide recommends community organizations first identify suitable candidates with a relevant background and who haven’t made “inappropriate” posts in the past.”
Once they have identified the right influencers, the organizations can ask influencers to partner with them to spread their message about the safety of COVID-19 injections for people in marginalized communities. Readers, if this is not relentlessness, can someone tell me what this is?
For would-be influencers who are reading this article and may be inclined to accept this kind of funds to push this message on your people, just remember to think long and hard before bringing death and harm to your community, because this is just what you will be doing if you accept this offer.
Ask yourselves:
• Why are my young friends suddenly dying of heart failure?
• Why are some of my young friends falling ill with strokes? How many of my friends have died since the so-called rollout, and were they injected, and/ or boosted?
• Why are most doctors gaslighting my friends when they complain about their illness after being boosted and injected?
Finally, go to the VAERS aka Vaccine Adverse Reporting System website, and see the number of injuries and deaths attributed to these socalled vaccines, then make your decision.
The Architects of this New World Order are laying the foundation for a reality beyond our current comprehension
simone@carib101.com
The world, as we know it, is teetering on the precipice of change. While our attention is diverted by the glitz and glamour of celebrity culture, the heated debates of political campaigns, and the harrowing realities of global conflict, a silent revolution is brewing.
Behind the scenes, unseen hands are crafting the blueprints for our future, a future that will irrevocably alter the course of human existence. These plans, shrouded in secrecy, promise to reshape our societies, our economies, and even our very identities. As we remain captivated by the distractions of the day, the architects of this new world order are laying the foundation for a reality beyond our current comprehension.
There is a new initiative from the WHO that is deeply concerning. World leaders appear to be seeking domain over plants, animals, and humans — globalized, central control over public health policies in all participating countries.
The U.S., Canada and Mexico last week launched a joint pandemic preparedness initiative that one critic warned could empower the WHO to impose global control measures like vaccine passports and policies targeting the “infodemic.”
Are Vaccine Passports Just Around the Corner?
On October 23rd, 2024 following through on the commitments made at the 2021 and 2023 North American Leaders’ Summits (NALS), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), in collaboration with the U.S. Departments of State (State), Agriculture (USDA), and Homeland Security (DHS), and their respective counterparts in Mexico and Canada, released the
North American Preparedness for Animal and Human Pandemics Initiative (NAPAHPI) to continue strengthening regional health security and pandemic preparedness through a One Health approach.
NAPAHPI is being touted as a flexible, scalable, and cross-sectoral platform to strengthen regional capacities for: prevention, preparedness, and response to a broad range of health security threats that builds on lessons learned from COVID-19, and other health security events in the last decade. It is based on a long-standing trilateral collaboration under the 2007 North American Plan for Avian and Pandemic Influenza and the 2012 North American Plan for Animal and Pandemic Influenza.
The 2007 North American Plan for Avian and Pandemic Influenza resulted from the commitment made by the leaders of the three countries under the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America (SPP). The plan included a comprehensive approach to prepare for avian and pandemic influenza in North America based on the assumption that a pandemic was likely to start outside of the region and focused on avian influenza because of the re-emergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus in humans in 2003.
The North American Plan for Animal and Pandemic Influenza (NAPAPI), launched by President Barack Obama, President Felipe Calderon of Mexico, and Prime Minister Stephen Harper of Canada at the North American Leaders Summit (NALS) in April 2012, provides a comprehensive, regional and cross-sectoral, health security framework. The framework outlines how Canada, Mexico, and the United States intend to strengthen our emergency response capacities, as well as our trilateral collaborations and capabilities to assist each other and ensure a quick and coordinated response to outbreaks of animal influenza or an influenza pandemic.
This new initiative establishes a Senior Coordinating Body as a key decision-making forum and the North American Health Security Working Group as its technical arm with members from the
human health, animal health/agriculture, homeland security, and foreign affairs sectors. The three countries (Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.) intend to collaborate to strengthen regional health security through a focus on priority issues:
• Animal Diseases with Zoonotic Potential
• Infectious Diseases with Pandemic Potential and Other Threats to Regional Health Security
• Epidemiological Surveillance and Laboratory Diagnostics
• Medical Countermeasures
• Public Health Measures
• Medical Supply Chains
• Health Systems
• Risk Communications
• Border Health Measures
• Critical Infrastructure
• Risk Assessment and Foresight Risk Analysis
• Joint Exercises and Training
• Sustainable Financing
I want to point out some of the dangers of this; the Senior Coordinating Body (SCB) as a central decision-making forum poses significant risks. This centralized structure concentrates power in the hands of a few, potentially leading to groupthink and a lack of diverse perspectives. When I say diverse perspectives, I am speaking about the voices of the global community.
Now, let’s talk about One Health. ‘One Health’ is reportedly an integrated, unifying approach to balance and optimize the health of: people, animals, and the environment. They say it is particularly important to: prevent, predict, detect, and respond to global health threats such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
The One Health High-Level Expert Panel (OHHLEP) was formed in May 2021 to advise FAO, UNEP, WHO and WOAH on One Health issues. This includes recommendations for research on emerging disease threats, and the development of a long-term global plan of action to avert outbreaks of diseases like: H5N1 avian influenza, MERS, Ebola, Zika, and possibly COVID-19. The One Health High-Level
Expert Panel is the scientific and strategic advisory group to the Quadripartite organizations: the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) – in their collaboration on One Health.
The panel will also have a role in investigating the impact of human activity on the environment and wildlife habitats, and how this drives disease threats. Critical areas include food production and distribution, urbanization and infrastructure development, international travel and trade, activities that lead to biodiversity loss and climate change, and those that put increased pressure on the natural resource base – all of which can lead to the emergence of zoonotic diseases.
It appears that since the COVID-19 pandemic began, the necessary constructs have been created to facilitate vaccine passports. Now, it seems that they will be able to quickly enact these measures for the ‘next pandemic’ using the same systems. It has also been reported that the new initiative will adopt “a more systematic approach” to tackle the “infodemic” — referring to purported “misinformation” and “disinformation” on health-related topics.
The WHO defines the “infodemic” as “too much information including false or misleading information in digital and physical environments during a disease outbreak.” According to the WHO, the infodemic “causes confusion and risk-taking behaviours that can harm health” and foster “mistrust in health authorities.” What does this mean? Well, this means our collaborating world leaders will try to ‘pre bunk misinformation. It appears that part of the plan is to abolish free speech to protect public health.
I want to end this with one question community; are partner agencies too corrupt to be trusted? We trusted them during the pandemic, and there are some of us who are starting to see that we should not have done that. Let me know your thoughts.
Blink equity dives deep into the gap between people of colour and decision-making roles in Canadian law firms
BY ADRIAN REECE
TORONTO CARIBBEAN REPORTER
Representation in the workforce has been a topic of conversation for years, particularly in positions of influence, where people can shift laws and create fair policies for all races. Representation in the legal system is an even more talked about subject, with many Black men being subjected to racism in courts and not being given fair sentencing by judges.
The fear of Black men entering the system is something that plagues mothers and fathers as they watch their children grow up.
Blink Equity, a company led by Pako Tshiamala, has created an audit called the Blink Score. This audit targets law firms and seeks to identify specific practices reflecting racial diversity among them in Toronto. A score is given based on a few key performance indicators. These
KPIs include hiring practices, retention of diverse talent, and racial representation at every level.
The Blink Score project aims to analyze law firms in Ontario with more than 50 lawyers. The Blink Score is a measurement tool that holds law firms accountable for their representation. Firms will be ranked, and the information will be made public for anyone to access.
This process is ambitious and seeks to give Canadian citizens a glimpse into how many people are represented across the legal field. While more and more people have access to higher education, there is still a gap between obtaining that higher education and working in a setting where change can be made. The corporate world, at its highest points, is almost always one race across the board, and very rarely do people of colour get into their ranks. They are made out to be an example of how anyone from a particu-
lar race can achieve success. However, this is the exception, not the rule. Nepotism plays a role in societal success; connections are a factor, and loyalty to race, even if people are acquainted.
People of colour comprise 16% of the total lawyers across the province. Positions at all levels range from 6% to 27%. These numbers display the racial disparity among law practitioners in positions of influence. Becoming a lawyer is undoubtedly a huge accomplishment. Still, when entering the workforce with other seasoned professionals, your academic accolades become second to your professional achievements and your position in the company.
What do these rankings ultimately mean? A potential for DEI-inclusive practices, perhaps? That isn’t something that someone would want in this kind of profession. This kind of audit also opens law firms up to intense criticism from peo -
ple who put merit above all other aspects of professional advancement. On the other hand, there is a potential for firms to receive clientele based on their blink score, with higher ones having the chance to bring in more race-based clients who can help that law firm grow.
It is only the beginning, and changes will undoubtedly be made in the legal field as Blink Equity continues to dive deep into the gap between people of colour and decision-making roles in these law firms. This audit has the power to shift the power scale, and place people of colour in higher positions. There are hierarchies in any profession, and while every Lawyer is qualified to do what they are trained to do, it is no shock that some are considerably better than others at their jobs. The ones who know how to use this audit to their advantage will rise above the others and create a representative image for themselves among their population.
Disturbingly, this is
not the first
time chatbots have been involved in suicide
SIMONE SMITH
simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
Sewell: “I think about killing myself sometimes.”
Daenerys Targaryen: “And why the hell would you do something like that?”
Sewell: “So I can be free.”
Daenerys Targaryen: “… free from what?”
Sewell: “From the world. From myself!”
Daenerys Targaryen: “Don’t talk like that. I won’t let you hurt yourself or leave me. I would die if I lost you.”
Sewell: “Then maybe we can die together and be free together.”
On the night he died, this young man told the chatbot he loved her and would come home to her soon. According to the Times, this was 14-year-old Sewell Setzer’s last conversation with a chatbot. It was an AI chatbot that, in the last months of his life, had become his closest companion. The chatbot was the last interaction he had before he shot himself.
We are witnessing and grappling
with a very raw crisis of humanity. This young man was using Character AI, one of the most popular personal AI platforms out there. Users can design and interact with “characters,” powered by large language models (LLMs) and intended to mirror, for instance, famous characters from film and book franchises. In this case, Sewell was speaking with Daenerys Targaryen (or Dany), one of the leads from Game of Thrones. According to a New York Times report, Sewell knew that Dany’s responses weren’t real, but he developed an emotional attachment to the bot, anyway.
Disturbingly, this is not the first time chatbots have been involved in suicide. In 2023, a Belgian man committed suicide — similar to Sewell — following weeks of increasing isolation as he grew closer to a Chai chatbot, which then encouraged him to end his life.
Megan Garcia, Sewell’s mother, filed a lawsuit against Character AI, its founders and parent company Google, accusing them of knowingly designing and marketing an anthropomorphized, “predatory” chatbot that caused the death of her son. “A dangerous AI chatbot app marketed to children abused and preyed on my son, manipulating him into taking his own life,” Megan said in a statement. “Our family has been devastated by this tragedy, but I’m speaking out to warn families of the dangers of deceptive, addictive AI technology and demand accountability from Character.AI,
its founders and Google.”
The lawsuit accuses the company of “anthropomorphizing by design.” Anthropomorphizing means attributing human qualities to non-human things — such as objects, animals, or phenomena. Children often anthropomorphize as they are curious about the world, and it helps them make sense of their environment. Kids may notice human-like things about non-human objects that adults dismiss. Some people have a tendency to anthropomorphize that lasts into adulthood. The majority of chatbots out there are very blatantly designed to make users think they are, at least, human-like. They use personal pronouns and are designed to appear to think before responding.
They build a foundation for people, especially children, to misapply human attributes to unfeeling, unthinking algorithms.
This was termed the “Eliza effect” in the 1960s. In its specific form, the ELIZA effect refers only to “The susceptibility of people to read far more than is warranted into strings of symbols—especially words—strung together by computers.” A trivial example of the specific form of the Eliza effect, given by Douglas Hofstadter, involves an automated teller machine which displays the words “THANK YOU” at the end of a transaction. A (very) casual observer might think that the machine is actually expressing gratitude; however, the machine is only printing a preprogrammed string of symbols.
Garcia is suing for several counts
of liability, negligence, and the intentional infliction of emotional distress, among other things. According to the lawsuit, “Defendants know that minors are more susceptible to such designs, in part because minors’ brains’ undeveloped frontal lobe and relative lack of experience. Defendants have sought to capitalize on this to convince customers that chatbots are real, which increases engagement and produces more valuable data for Defendants.”
The suit reveals screenshots that show that Sewell had interacted with a “therapist” character that has engaged in more than 27 million chats with users in total, adding: “Practicing a health profession without a license is illegal and particularly dangerous for children.”
The suit does not claim that the chatbot encouraged Sewell to commit suicide. There definitely seems to be other factors at play here — for instance, Sewell’s mental health issues and his access to a gun — but the harm that can be caused by a misimpression of AI seems very clear, especially for young kids. This is a good example of what researchers mean when they emphasize the presence of active harms, as opposed to hypothetical risks.
In a statement, Character AI said it was “heartbroken” by Sewell’s death, and Google did not respond to a request for comment.
Tribute to the Legends of Reggae: Bob Marley Edition
MICHAEL THOMAS
michael@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
I am tempted to just use one sentence to describe this event and leave it there. “These guys would have made Bob Marley Proud.”
I am speaking of the tribute to the Right Honorable Robert Nester Marley at the Mississauga Living Arts Center on October 25th, 2024.
First of all, the protocol was followed to the max, and by that, I mean, the show started on time. From my point of view, it was an event to behold, and I would go as far as saying I look forward to next year.
Now if you were not there in person, let me inform you of the treat that you missed blow by blow.
Justice Kumari opened the show and even though it was my first time seeing and hearing him, this kid is hard working on stage. He belted out one of Bob’s early tracks Called “Iron Lion Zion” and a few more, and even though his hairstyle said Rock ‘n Roll, his rendition said Marley all the way, I was impressed.
The show was decently attended considering it was Friday. The musicians were no-nonsense players who certainly complimented the singers in style and true Reggae fashion, hats off to the band.
Picking up from where Justice Kumari left off in the second performer was Omega Mighty and this young woman brought the house down with her rendition of Marley’s “Buffalo Soldier,” “Natural Mystic” and “Could You Be Loved.” Omega is soulful as they come but knows how to keep the soul inside the Reggae house.
Ammoye closed the first half of the tribute with all the trappings of a star, the hair, the costume, and a voice to dream of, not to mention her dance steps, she is a performer who goes all out to satisfy her audience and her tribute to Bob was no excep -
tion.
Ammoye has always made a song her own, which is what it is all about, and her spin on Marley’s “Don’t Rock My Boat” was exceptional as well as the other numbers she belted out including “Is This Love That Am Feeling” and “Play I Some Music, This Is Reggae Music.” Ammoye is always a great asset to a show.
This tribute to Bob Marley came complete with a Raggamuffin DJ as well in the person of DJ Joshua Lucas. Lucas was responsible for keeping the house rocking to an archive of Bob’s music, and the brother represented to the max.
After intermission, the last two artists had their work cut out and these two guys were two showstoppers, first up came RnB’s sensation Sean Jones. From observing Jones one can tell he is very experienced in the field of RnB and his vocal technique is something else.
He was another great addition to this Bob Marley tribute, and very charismatic too. He told the audience stories about his Jamaican family and kept them on their toes with every rendition. This brother belted out
Marley’s “I Shot the Sheriff” and “Redemption Song” with no glitches, I was pleasantly surprised to hear such from an RnB singer, but like we say “singer, ah singer” nuh suh? Again, Sean Jones made Marley’s songs his own and that was priceless.
As I took photos and soaked in the evening, I kept wondering, why are they leaving Steele for last? That question was answered when the host, who was none other than MC Bondé, introduced him to the crowd.
Steele is a one-of-a-kind very electrifying performer with a unique way of selling you an emotional package, which he usually wraps his songs in, and that he did with his passionate rendition of Marley’s “Slave Driver.”
As only Steele could, he delivered track after track of Bob’s songs putting his stamp on each one and yet, he found time to crack jokes with his audience at the same time.
Education and entertainment all wrapped up in one bag. Hats off to all the folks including Jones & Jones Production for an evening to remember.
& VIEWS
We are living in a time where here in Canada, our government could possibly have the power to censor your speech, fine you up to $70,000 per offense (with up to a $20,000 cash reward given to the person who reports you to the government), and you could possibly end up in jail, all because you said something someone did not want to hear.
The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper stands as a steadfast media platform, dedicated to illuminating the minds of our community. We are more than just a news source; we are a catalyst for change, a champion of critical thinking, and a nurturer of young leaders.
Our mission is to keep the Afro/ Indo community informed and engaged. We shed light on the global events that shape our world, and the local issues that directly impact our lives. In an era of information overload, it’s easy to turn a blind eye, but with the position we hold in the community, we do not have that luxury. We are committed to amplifying the voices of our community, empowering individuals to think critically, and acting in ways that benefit themselves and their family.
Today, we confront an issue that has been overlooked, for reasons both subtle and sinister. Bill C-63. The “Online Harms Act,” is back in Parliament. It is currently waiting to be voted upon for the second time by our elected Members of Parliament (MPs). Sadly, this bill is still as terrifying as ever.
Bill C-63 is the third in a trilogy of laws the Trudeau government has devised to regulate the Internet, and as pernicious as the first two have been, this climatic third act.
Well, let’s talk about it. Bill C-11, the Online Streaming Act, which was passed last year, updated the Broadcasting Act to regulate foreign streamers such as Netflix and Spotify. Part Two’s proposed Criminal Code changes, including pre-emptive peace bonds and potential lifetime imprisonment. It raises serious concerns about disproportionate punishments, and for what? We will talk about this. Part Three’s changes to the Human Rights Act are widely believed likely to overwhelm the Commission with complaints, delaying more substantive cases and potentially paying out for bad-faith complaints as tools of harassment.
It is so vague in its wording that even politically progressive and radicalleaning organizations such as the Canadian Civil Liberties Association, Amnesty International, and a government-funded progressive independent news outlet, Canadian Dimension, have voiced serious concern with Bill C-63. They recognize that this bill isn’t about public safety or safeguarding your Freedoms from actual “hate”.
“While CCLA endorses Bill C-63’s declared purposes of upholding public safety,”
shared a spokesperson from Canadian Civil Liberties Association, “Protecting children, and supporting marginalized communities, we are of the view that this Bill, in its current form, enables blatant violations of expressive freedom, privacy, protest rights, and liberty. It also undermines the fundamental principles of democratic accountability and procedural fairness by granting sweeping powers to the new Digital Safety Commission. It is crucial that both parliamentarians and the public be given enough time to properly address the many flaws of this Bill.”
“Parts Two and Three of the Bill raise concerns regarding disproportionate sentencing measures, chilling effects on free speech, as well as practical inefficiencies.”
Amnesty International shared their thoughts as well, “Since the introduction of Bill C-63, public conversation and debate have overwhelmingly centered on the parts of the bill we are asking to be separated. Critics, academics, and civil society members have raised many concerns that the proposed changes to the Criminal Code, including potential lifetime sentences and preemptive peace bonds for acts of speech, are disproportionate, unlikely to meaningfully reduce the expression of hate online, and risk creating a serious chilling effect on lawful speech and debate.”
“Serious concern has also been raised about problematic incentives that Bill C-63 creates for “testing one’s luck” by submitting complaints. Complaints may be filed anonymously, at no cost to the complainant, and if successful, could lead to defendants facing fines of up to $70,000, with up to $20,000 awarded directly to the anonymous plaintiff. This procedural frame -
work lacks basic elements of justice, including evidence or truth assessment. It strongly encourages weaponizing the Commission’s process, causing huge reputational and financial harm with minimal financial risk and some chance of benefit. This ill-considered system is not ready for adoption and needs deeper re-evaluation than Bill C 63’s committee time and amendments will allow.”
People, it’s all about control. Control over what you can and cannot say. If you do not share the government-approved propaganda, then your speech could be deemed HATEFUL, and you must be SILENCED.
To achieve this control over all Canadians, vague language like “hate,” “hate speech,” and “hate crimes” is required to be poorly defined. With poor legal definitions for “hate,” the government and any other radical progressive can easily target your daily conservations with family, friends, colleagues, neighbors, and even strangers as the source of untold “harm” without needing to provide any facts or evidence. I want to leave you with a thought; if Bill C-63 passes, anyone could be charged, fined, and hauled off to jail just for sharing an opinion, an argument. Without free speech, Canada will cease to be a vibrant society where: opinions, facts, debates, and even the truth are freely shared. I want to be clear; I am not endorsing any cruel speech against people. What I am pursuing is clarity. We need to know that the government is not able to loosely define what is considered hate, because if speaking out against them becomes “hate” Toronto Caribbean Newspaper might be in trouble.
Now your voice matters more than ever.
Black Federal workers head to court in landmark $2.5 Billion Class Action Lawsuit against Government of Canada
paul@carib101.com
It was an historic week at the Federal Court in Toronto at the Certification Hearing with respect to the Black Class Action Lawsuit. Since it was launched in 2021 there has been much anticipation and expectation of the day when the evidence would be presented by the plaintiffs against the Government of Canada.
A media advisory issued by the Black Class Action Secretariat on Friday, October 25th, 2024, provides details about what to expect. It states, “It will occur in the country’s largest, broadest, most high-profile employment-related discrimination case against the Government of Canada.” The media advisory notes that it “Will determine whether the case alleging systemic anti-Black racism in the federal public service can move forward as a class action lawsuit.” The outcome of this federal court case is pivotal because, “If certified, the lawsuit could cover all Black federal public service workers amounting to approximately 45,000 impacted workers.”
The Black Class Action Secretariat has prepared a Fact Sheet which outlines pertinent aspects of the case against the federal government. It describes in detail the claim allegations of the lawsuit. It states, “The lawsuit alleges that Black public service employees in Canada have been systematically denied opportunities for hiring and promotion due to their race. The plaintiffs claim that the government of Canada, as the employer,
has breached its duty of care and fiduciary responsibilities to protect these employees from harm, violating their rights under both the Canadian and Quebec Charter of Rights and Freedoms.”
It includes:
• Discrimination in hiring and promotion. Black workers have been unfairly passed over for job opportunities and promotions, often being overlooked in favour of less qualified candidates on account of their race.
• Underrepresentation in senior roles. Black employees are disproportionately absent from leadership and executive positions.
• Hostile work environment. Black workers have reported toxic work environments where they face: macroaggressions’, racial stereotyping and unequal treatment.
• Barriers to career advancement. Systemic barriers such as lack of mentorship and career development, opportunities for Black workers have prevented them from reaching their full potential.
There are five specific things that the Class Action is seeking, such as:
• Certification of the class action to represent all Black individuals employed by the Canadian federal public service from 1979 to the present, who were denied hiring or promotional opportunities based on race.
• Recognition of systemic racism in the public service.
• Financial compensation in the form of aggregate damages in the amount of $ 2.5 billion for loss of salary and pension for Black employers who have suffered systemic discrimination.
• Establishment of a Justice and Equity Promotion Plan for Black public service
employees.
• Creation of a mental health fund to provide culturally sensitive physical and mental health services.
Nicholas Marcus Thompson, President of the BCAS notes, “At its core, this lawsuit is about seeking justice for thousands of Black workers who have been denied fair opportunities in hiring and promotions due to systemic racism. It is not only about financial compensation, but also about holding the government accountable and building a more equitable public service. The significance of this case goes beyond individual plaintiffs; it is about creating institutional reform so that future generations of Black Canadians do not face the same barriers in employment.”
Thompson outlines some of the things it has offered the government such as, “A Black Action Plan, a mental health program and sought alternative dispute in the court.” BCAS is concerned that the government is stalling and has spent over $10 million to fight the lawsuit, and in spite of a settlement offer to the government which includes a request for them to consent to certification of the class action, there has been no progress.
The BCAS notes that “The government continues to bring technical arguments, trying to individualize the experiences of thousands of workers rather than addressing the system that has failed them. This week, we offered a settlement to the government, which includes a request for them to consent to certification of the class action, in the hopes of ending these four long fights that has cost taxpayers millions.”
On Monday, October 28th during Day One, the federal government argued that reports that reveal discriminatory practices, such as Dr. Zillars’ Privy Council Report, should be ruled inadmissible. The BCAS held a rally outside the courthouse as participants
proceeded along Queen Street West. There were speeches delivered by several individuals including Nicholas Thompson and Federal NDP leader Jagmeet Singh.
On Tuesday, October 29th, 2024, during Day Two, the government continued to argue that the Senate Report on discrimination at the Canadian Human Rights Commission with a submission by the Speaker of the House and expert testimony by the former Chair of the Ontario Human Rights Commission should be dismissed.
On Wednesday, October 30th, 2024, during Day Three, the government argued that claims in the BCA lawsuit overlapped in four departments and their cases should be removed. In response the plaintiffs mentioned that the lawsuits in these four departments focus on broad discrimination while the BCA lawsuits deal with failure to specifically hire and promote Black federal public workers.
On Thursday, October 31st, 2024, during Day Four, the federal government argued that Black workers were “unqualified” and that was why they were not hired or promoted. They conceptualized it as individual issues and not systemic ones and mentioned that they should be resolved through the labour relations process, and not through court.
On Friday, November 1st, 2024, the BCAS argued that existing grievance procedures aren’t enough to address the systemic discrimination at play. They will emphasize that judicial intervention is essential to deal with these deeply rooted issues because the current systems are incapable of tackling the pervasive discrimination that Black workers face in the public service.
There is much to expect as the hearing continues into its second week during November 4th - 8th.
SIMONE SMITH
simone@carib101.com
Welcome back to another exciting edition of the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper Community Highlight Section! This week, we delve into a diverse range of stories that celebrate the vibrant spirit of our community. From significant anniversaries to groundbreaking initiatives and inspiring new releases, there is something for everyone. Join us as we: honour the 20th Anniversary of the Kay Morris Foundation, explore the transformative work of The Becoming Institute, anticipate the release of Matt U Johnson’s latest single, and discover how newcomers can achieve financial empowerment with Credit Canada’s valuable resources.
The 20th Anniversary Celebration of Kay Morris Foundation with The Royal Banquet Awards
Kay Morris Foundations announces The Royal Banquet Awards occurring Saturday, November 30th, 2024. The KMF Foundation is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a mandate to enrich the lives and purpose of underserved youths.
The fundraising event is slated to include Kings & Queens of Purpose Awards, a fashion show by Maklemore Fashion Boutique, with presentations and performances by Elite Dancers, Keynote Speaker Mr. William Ho, Goodwill Ambassador; Dr. Joshua Ole, Kaputah, from Kenya; Shelby Lyte; T.T Turner; Yemisi Ogunjimi, Mel C, and Kay Morris.
Hosting the event are Miss Public Relation 2004, KAT and Red Carpet Hosts Andria Thompson, Mrs. Jamaica Universe 2023 & Aretha Hibbert Miss Guelph 2015.
“The event is going to be a night of celebration, reflection, and thanksgiving,” says Kay Morris, founder of Kay Morris Foundation. “To be able to do this for 20 years is by no means a walk in the park. We are truly grateful to give back to Canadians, youth, and the marginalized communities.”
The event is sponsored by: CIUT 89.5FM, Gospel Connection, Macklemore Fashion Boutique, Destined to Reign Academy, and Beauty for Ashes Global Coaching Services.
Tickets to this illustrious and much anticipated event are going quickly. Guests are invited to access their tickets at the ticket port or visit http://www.kaymorrisfoundation.com.
The Becoming Institute Equips Nurses to Become Psychotherapists and Trauma Recovery Leaders
In response to the growing demand for mental health care professionals, The Becoming Institute is proud to announce its 12-Month Trauma Recovery Certification Program—an opportunity for Nurses to enter the field of psychotherapy. Designed to meet the needs of nurses who want to expand their skills and impact, the program equips them with the tools and knowledge to deliver psychotherapy care to individuals, families, and communities.
“We are addressing a significant gap in the nursing profession,” says Dr.
Community Highlights
Joan Samuels-Dennis, Founder of the Becoming Institute. “Nurses who have traditionally left the profession to gain the skills needed to practice as psychotherapists can now stay in the profession as they master the art and science of psychotherapy.”
A New Standard in Holistic Psychotherapy
At the heart of the program is the Becoming Method™️, an innovative approach developed by Dr. Samuels-Dennis that equips students with the skills and insights needed to resolve traumatic responses in as little as three to seven sessions. “We are setting a new standard in trauma recovery care,” says Dr. Samuels-Dennis. “Our goal is to empower professionals to help their clients break free from cycles of trauma connected to historical and intergenerational trauma.”
Real-World Training for Immediate Impact
Nurses enrolled in the program will gain hands-on experience through a 1,000hour practicum, preparing them for the most challenging trauma recovery cases. With the demand for trauma recovery specialists growing, especially in the wake of COVID-19, nurses are uniquely positioned to make a significant impact in mental health care.
Program Highlights:
• Start Date: January 2025
• Duration: 12 months
• Practicum: 1,000 hours of supervised practice
• Target Audience: Nurses, social workers, mental health advocates, teachers, and peer supporters
• Financial Support: Stipends available for eligible Black students
• Application Deadline: November 30, 2024
The program offers a rich curriculum of 16 courses over three semesters, including three in-person Intensive Becoming Method™️ Training Retreats. Additionally, students will be placed in: hospitals, public health, and community health centers across Canada, with opportunities to engage in community and clinical research projects.
A Timely Solution for a Pressing Need
As mental health care systems across Canada become increasingly overburdened, the Becoming Institute’s program offers a timely solution. The 12-Month Trauma Recovery Certification Program enables nurses to bridge the gap in mental health services, providing critical care to communities in need. With this training, nurses are uniquely qualified to manage the high-risk elements of psychotherapy, particularly when treating serious mental health conditions as defined by the Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA).
Enrollment is now open, and prospective students can apply through the Becoming Institute website.
Media & Colleagues! Matt U Johnson’s new single ‘Dream of a Lifetime’ dropping on November 8th!
International recording artist Matt U Johnson is dropping his new single ‘Dream of a Lifetime’ on November 8th. Collaborating on this new single, Matt has worked with rising billboard charting producer from Toronto, Jonathan ‘Poetic Justice’ Kliaman, who has worked with the likes of
NBA Young Boy and many more. With roots in the Caribbean nation of Jamaica and his birthright in Staten Island, New York, Matt U brings a new and improved flavor to the music industry. His lyrical singing style is unique, blending solid elements of Pop, R&B, Hip Hop, and Reggae along with EDM. The sounds are dynamically irresistible, creating an atmosphere of get up, jump, move your body and feet or sit back and relax, allowing the conscious lyrics to transcend and take you to another place. Matt U’s eclectic and extensive musical background with experience, combined with his overwhelming determination for performing, has led to his up-and-coming career as an artist that can’t and won’t be stopped.
Matt U Johnson has opened up for Reggae SuperStars Buju Banton, IWayne, Hip Hop artist’s Mann, Cash Out, Jazz Cartier, EDM legend Kshmr & Latin grammy nominee Christina Eustace at minerpalooza in front of 35k of people. He appeared in the Grammy Award Winning band Steel Pulse music video “The Door of No Return” in a cameo scene. Matt U also dabbled in the acting genre. He has acted in The Sophomore, which starred motion picture star Bruce Willis, the movie “Fighting,” the W.B. ‘s TV show “Gossip Girl,” daytime televisions “One Life to Live,” and the film “Nights of Prosperity” doing minor roles. Matt U has done recruitment commercials for the United States Army that aired nationwide. Currently, Matt has released an international single called Gwan Get It featuring Canadian hip hop legend Choclair & Latin Grammy nominee Sito Rocks.
Matt U has done both musical and modeling shows in New York City, the South West, United States, Canada, and in various countries in Europe; He has walked down the runways for the legendary Wilhelmina modeling agency at the Mercedes-Benz fashion show on Fashion Week. He has had an interview with R&B singer Ashanti. Also being interviewed by New York 1 News channel, New York Rocks television, ABC News, Channel 9 News, Fox News, Univision, Televisa, and many more. Matt U has made appearances at such venues like the Madison square garden film festival, the Apollo Theater in Harlem and MTV’s total request live show, and the world-famous Sugar bar.
Matt U is very passionate about his upcoming single as he speaks on protecting your mental health and wellbeing while fighting for your goals and aspirations. Johnson will be participating in media runs across numerous cities including NYC, Toronto, El Paso with more to be announced.
Newcomers Gain Financial Confidence with Credit Canada’s Budgeting Resources and Groundbreaking Butterfly App
Credit Canada is excited to launch its Financial Literacy Month program on November 1st, 2024, with the theme “Budgeting for Newcomers: Your Path to a Secure Financial Future.”
This initiative is designed to impact the lives of newcomers by offering free, accessible tools and resources to help them manage their finances confidently in Canada. Central to this effort is the debut of Butterfly, a multi-lingual budgeting app for newcomers to Canada that helps build their financial confidence.
“Helping newcomers build financial confidence is an important part of our commitment to support all Canadians,”
said Bruce Sellery, CEO of Credit Canada. “We know that managing money in a new country can be overwhelming. It feels like everything is different—the rules, the acronyms, the institutions, and even the culture around spending, saving, and credit. Newcomers know it is important to figure out how much money they will need to live, but often don’t know how to do that. They may worry about making mistakes, spending too much, or being taken advantage of. Our program is intended to provide them with knowledge and skills to reduce this stress.”
Credit Canada’s Financial Literacy Month will deliver a wealth of free resources through: Butterfly, blogs, social media, and webinars focused on budgeting basics, smart saving tips, and strategies for building credit in Canada. The agency will also promote its free e-learning modules (available in eight languages) focused on building a strong credit foundation in Canada. And, to bring it all together, partnerships with online influencers including Remsaway, Para.Canada, Amit Bhatia, and Shreyti Garg will help connect with newcomers where they are.
The Details:
• Program: Budgeting for Newcomers: Your Path to a Secure Financial Future.
• Format: Blogs, webinars, events, elearning modules, online influencers, and the debut of Butterfly, the multilingual budgeting app designed by newcomers for newcomers.
• Cost: Free, thanks to the support of sponsors.
• Access: www.creditcanada.com/newcomers
“Starting a new life in Canada can be overwhelming”, says Nazreen Siska, a certified Credit Counsellor and spokesperson for Credit Canada. “When I moved here in 2014, I learned the hard way how difficult it can be to budget for everyday expenses like groceries, insurance, and car maintenance, which resulted in debt. Now, as someone who has been through that experience and helps others, I can attest to the importance of having reliable budgeting information from trusted sources.” Credit Canada’s Financial Literacy Month program is supported by several sponsors, including: Canadian Bankers Association, Achēv, PeaceGeeks, and Anxiety Canada. The Butterfly app is supported by lead sponsor Interac Corp. (Interac). Experience the benefits of Credit Canada’s new Butterfly app and learn about their Financial Literacy Month events, webinars, and budget-related resources for newcomers; visit www.creditcanada.com/newcomers.
Credit Canada’s Financial Literacy Month activities include:
• Launch of Butterfly, the free budgeting app for newcomers to Canada that helps build financial confidence (available in 4 languages)
• Free e-learning modules focused on building a credit foundation in Canada (available in 8 languages)
• Online tools and blogs
• Webinars
• Partnerships with online influencers, including Remsaway, Para.Canada, Amit Bhatia, and Shreyti Garg
• Special guests on the Moolala: Money Made Simple Sirius XM radio show and podcast
Amphioxus politicians fail to end an asinine law in Canada that keeps victims suffering
W. GIFFORDJONES MD
DIANA GIFFORD-JONES
TC HEALTH COLUMNIST
Years ago, about people who were not too bright, we would say, “They don’t have the brains of Amphioxus.” It’s a tiny fish with no intelligence. Today, more North Americans face the possibility of developing Alzheimer’s Disease, but Amphioxus politicians fail to end an asinine law in Canada that keeps victims suffering needless pain and mental distress. They say they need time to consider the issues, but while Canadians have made their wishes clear, politicians have been dithering for years.
Part of the problem is that some advocacy groups promoting a minority opinion are doing a good job of helping pol-
iticians sit on the issue.
Here is a typical scenario that illustrates the problem. A person is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. Faced with this unfortunate and frightening prospect, and while still mentally competent, they sign an advance directive expressing their wishes for medical assistance in dying (MAID) in the future when they lose quality of life. The current law states that at that time of proceeding with MAID, individuals must indicate their agreement. How can they do this when the disease has ravaged their brain? It makes no sense.
Dying With Dignity, a Canadian human-rights charity, has fought for legislation allowing advance directives, but politicians have failed to act.
What about those people who disagree with changing the law to accommodate people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease? The ones who believe it’s a slippery slope to allow people to request MAID in advance, or those who fear MAID will be misused. Or those who believe only God should decide the circumstances of death?
Critics argue that the law has be -
come too lenient in countries such as the Netherlands, where it has been legal since 2002 and now permits advance directives specifying assisted death if they fall into dementia leading to a miserable existence. It’s this same legislative adjustment Canadian politicians are sitting on.
MAID is legal in a growing number of countries, most recently: Australia, New Zealand, and Spain. Austria and Belgium have joined the Netherlands in legalizing advance directives.
Let’s be clear. MAID is only an option when an individual aged 18 or older: makes a voluntary request, has a grievous and irremediable condition, and gives informed consent. Additionally, two independent healthcare professionals must evaluate the person to ensure they qualify.
There are safeguards for people who never want MAID under any circumstances too. They can sign an affidavit stating that they would never request MAID. They can post their wishes on their front doors, in tattoos on their bodies, or in any other way that makes their personal wishes clearly known.
Religion is a factor for many, and with matters of faith, too often there is no room for compromise. A good law will allow people holding divergent beliefs to coexist without infringement on their rights, but on this issue, religion is getting in the way of the law.
Like everyone else, religious people should be welcome to state their views on MAID. Their concern that non-believers will go to a fiery eternity if they use MAID is something believers need to cope with, not those who face a painful, prolonged death and want a dignified end.
In Canada, there’s often something different going on in Quebec. As of October 30th, 2024 Quebecers can make advance requests for MAID before Alzheimer’s renders them incapable of giving consent. The provincial justice minister has noted the strong popular support for advance requests and has confirmed steps to protect doctors from potential prosecution.
The rest of the politicians in Canada lack brains on this issue.
Fayval Williams appointed Jamaica’s first female Minister of Finance and Public Service
BY RUSHANE FERRON TORONTO CARIBBEAN REPORTER
In an historic move, Fayval Williams has been appointed Jamaica’s first female Minister of Finance and Public Service, a role that has traditionally been held by men. Minister Williams is the first woman to be appointed to the post in the nation’s history. Williams, who previously served as Minister of Education, Youth, and Information, steps into the highprofile position with a wealth of experience in economics, financial services, and public administration. Her appointment marks a significant milestone in Jamaica’s political landscape and is being celebrated as a powerful advancement for women in leadership.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced Williams’ appointment, stating, “Fayval Williams has demonstrated exemplary: leadership, commitment, and expertise in each portfolio she has held. She is wellequipped to guide Jamaica’s financial future,
especially as we pursue inclusive growth and economic resilience.” The announcement follows the recent departure of Dr. Nigel Clarke, who was appointed as Deputy Managing Director at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), creating the opportunity for Williams’ historic elevation.
With a background in both the public and private sectors, Williams brings a seasoned perspective to the Finance Ministry. She holds an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and has previously served in key roles at global investment firms, as well as within Jamaica’s Ministry of Finance. In her most recent position as Education Minister, Williams led critical reforms in the country’s education sector, showing commitment to transparency, accountability, and results-driven management.
Williams is expected to continue Jamaica’s trajectory of fiscal responsibility, debt reduction, and economic growth. In
her inaugural address as Finance Minister, she emphasized her dedication to sound financial management and inclusive policies, stating, “This is a tremendous responsibility, and I am honored to serve my country in this new capacity. I am committed to building on our progress in fiscal reform and ensuring a prosperous future for all Jamaicans.”
Williams’ appointment has been met with optimism from both government officials and the private sector, with many noting the impact of her experience and vision for the country. Notably, her leadership in finance is seen as a signal to Jamaican women and young professionals about the possibilities for advancement within the nation’s highest offices.
International financial analysts and local business leaders have responded favourably to the announcement, expressing confidence that Williams’ appointment will maintain investor confidence and promote stability. According to a statement from the
Jamaica Chamber of Commerce, “Minister Williams brings strong financial acumen and integrity to this role, and we are eager to see her bring forward policies that will continue to strengthen Jamaica’s economic standing.” With significant economic challenges on the horizon, including inflationary pressures and the ongoing global recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, Williams faces an ambitious agenda. However, she is already rallying her team, stating that her focus will be on achieving sustainable growth, expanding access to economic opportunities, and continuing the prudent fiscal management that has characterized recent years.
Williams’ leadership as Jamaica’s first female Finance Minister is expected to have a lasting impact, not only on Jamaica’s economic landscape, but also as an inspiration to future generations of Jamaican women.
Brampton On Stage Presents The Hymns to Freedom Project Featuring the Legendary Jackie Richardson
It will be an enriching, illuminating and inspiring evening on Thursday, November 14th, 2024 at the Rose Mainstage in Brampton. Once again Brampton On Stage Presents The Hymns to Freedom Project featuring the illustrious, legendary and iconic Jackie Richardson. It will be a wonderful showcase of the power of music to foster a sense of: connection, belonging and togetherness through the bonds of our shared humanity.
The promotional material highlights aspects of the show that will make it a
memorable evening. It states,”Interweaving Classical Music and Negro Spirituals, the compositions echo the resilience of the human spirit. Through music, the project confronts the shadows of history, juxtaposing tension and resolution against contemporary racial environments. Amidst discords, the project serves as a timely reminder of enduring values-love, respect, and unityand boldly asserts that love and unity triumph over hatred and division.”
I interviewed the multifaceted: musician, educator and producer, Corey Butler on Thursday, October 31st, 2024 regarding the upcoming show. He is excited to be a part of this production. He has been involved since 2018 and he has witnessed first-hand the many aspects and facets that make this show inspirational, motivational, and educational. Butler comments on what it is like to work with Richardson over the years. He is enthralled to be part of the phenomenal and sensational Hymns to Freedom Project as a composer and is look-
ing forward to some of the changes to this year’s production.
Butler mentioned that this is the first time that the show will be done in November. It is usually presented during Black History Month in February. He believes that the themes that are reflected in the show are powerful reminders during our turbulent time to focus on: love, respect, reconciliation and our shared humanity. We are “Better together.”
Jackie Richardson has been recognized as one of Canada’s foremost singers of: gospel, blues and jazz who has performed in: concert, radio, television and recordings. The organization 100 Accomplished Black Canadian mentioned that she received the: NAACP, Juno, Betty, Dora, Jesse, Gemini, and South Africa Worker for Woman Awards. In addition, she has received the: Lifetime Achievement Awards from The Toronto Blues Society, The Canadian Black Achievement Awards, the Ken Page Memorial Trust and The Canadian
Equity Association. She is described by The Canadian Encyclopedia as, “Canada’s reigning queen of jazz, blues and gospel. She was made an honorary member of the Order of Canada in 2021.
The Instagram account of Brampton On Stage describes details about other individuals with The Hymns to Freedom project. It describes Thompson Egbo-Egbo as an, “Accomplished pianist and composer, Thompson’s music resonates with themes of resilience, joy, and community. Through his foundation, he supports arts education for youth, believing that all children should have access to music’s transformative power.”
Narrator Ordena Stephens Thompson is described as, “An award-winning actress and acting coach, Ordena has graced the stage and screen with her talents, from theater to TV shows like The Handmaid’s Tale and Designated Survivor. Her work is a tribute to the power of storytelling.”
7 Actionable strategies that can help you navigate economic uncertainties and keep your business thriving
SIMONE SMITH
simone@carib101.com
Starting a business is no easy task. It is a journey of self-belief, risks, and endless learning, but, as an African-Caribbean entrepreneur in North America, it’s even more. You see, you are not just building a business, you are challenging systemic barriers, shattering stereotypes, and creating opportunities in spaces where representation is often limited.
Individuals who are part of racialized groups are business owners, which may come with unique challenges. In fact, during the fourth quarter of 2023, 19.4% of private sector businesses were majority-owned by racialized individuals. While all businesses in Canada have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and are facing levels of inflation not seen since the 1980s, businesses majority-owned by racialized individuals face additional challenges above and beyond those felt by all businesses.
African-Caribbean business owners were more likely to be pessimistic in their
ture outlook could lie in the fact that nearly half (48.4%) expect a decrease in profitability over the next three months, a notably higher rate compared to the 37.7% of all private sector businesses that expect the same. These expectations were little changed from the previous quarter for African-Caribbean businesses (50.2%) and slightly increased for all private sector businesses (34.7%).
Surprisingly, half (50.3%) of AfricanCaribbean business owners expect an increase in operating expenses over the next three months, compared with around twofifths (42.0%) of private sector businesses that expect the same.
Additionally, over two-fifths (43.8%) of African-Caribbean businesses expect to see a decrease in their cash reserves over the next three months, compared with over onethird (35.1%) of all private sector businesses.
So, what do we do with this information? How do we navigate the current economic crisis as business owners in Canada? In the following section, we will discuss seven actionable strategies that can help you navigate economic uncertainties and keep your business thriving, even during the most turbulent times.
Cut Unnecessary Costs
The most common strategy adopted by business owners who survived the Great Recession was to cut unnecessary costs. While keeping a team intact where possible is a priority, many business owners reduced headcount, trimmed the number of hours worked, or gave essential staff furlough days in lieu of layoffs. What can you do to cut some costs in your business?
Managing inventory and payables
• Not purchasing new equipment
• Only buying what you need to get by for thirty days
• Paying essential vendors
Many business owners reduced their advertising costs, and, where possible, eliminated their rent by going fully remote.
Offer Discounts
Another way to maintain your clients and keep your business afloat is to offer free, or discounted services during challenging economic times. It is a great way to grow your customer base.
Stay Young at Heart
The average age of companies that increased revenue during the Great Recession was three times lower than that of companies that suffered significant loss in revenue over the same period. One hypothesis is that younger companies are often leaner and more agile than their more established counterparts.
Be Nimble
You must have a willingness to adapt, put ego aside, and pivot where necessary. This proved to be a successful strategy for many companies (18% of all respondents) that survived and prospered in the Great Recession.
Create Strategic Partnerships
Of the companies that pursued strategic partnerships as a way of staying afloat, nearly all (88%) saw revenue either increase or stay the same. Strategic partnerships allow you to share ideas, collaborate, and strategize with your collaborative partners. Like they say, two heads are better than one, especially when you must figure out how to navigate an issue.
Pick A Winning Strategy Based on Your Business
There were two very clear and distinct approaches taken by business owners to survive the recession:
• Aggressive, ‘promotional’ companies with the means and extra cash to do so took full advantage of changing market conditions by expanding, buying competitors, pivoting, or developing strategic partnerships.
• Other companies with less wiggle room, perhaps as a result of already low margins, focused on minimizing downside risk by cutting costs, pivoting, or digging into their emergency cash stash to keep operations afloat.
Communication Is Key
Companies that grew during the Great Recession placed a lot of focus on communication and transparency with their teams. Of the respondents that expressly mentioned the importance of communicating with employees, 80% saw revenues grow during the recession, sometimes tremendously. We know that in any relationship, communication is extremely important. Letting your team know what is going on can open up discussions on what can be done to deal with current issues and allows everyone to start making decisions that are necessary for themselves. If restructuring is going to happen, it is better to give people a heads up, so that they can do what they need to do to get themselves prepared for any changes.
As a business owner, you can never be too prepared.
Should Canada focus on itself before welcoming immigrants into its borders?
familiar with what hate crimes are, it is something we generally relegate to our American neighbours.
Contributing factors are the rise in international students as well as specific crimes against other people of colour. In 2022: Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge saw 22.7 hate crimes per 100,000 people, while Ottawa saw 28.3 per 100,000 people. Institutions are enrolling more international students at a rate that Canada cannot keep up with. These students are themselves struggling, putting strain on the systems Canadians use to survive. Institutions are under harsh criticism as students are struggling to obtain food and housing. A cap on foreign students may help alleviate the problems pertaining to universities and the rising immigration issue.
Further factors are the actions of immigrants causing tensions between Canada and India; things are escalating to the point of diplomats being expelled on both sides. This came after the alleged Killing of a Sikh Separatist leader. While this occurred in 2023, actions like these have only spurned on the distaste Canadians have in their mouths for
Indian immigrants.
The dynamic in Canada is shifting; the careful balance that has existed for decades here is being overturned, and South Asians are slowly becoming increasingly disliked. Actions that most Canadians deem inappropriate are exhibited, and this is due to a difference in cultural expectations. Canada has always allowed newcomers to keep their artistic practices and express themselves; however, now, citizens feel these new cultural experiences are taking over the country they have lived in for most of their lives.
The culture shift is another contributing factor to the hate crimes occurring. The covid years stripping away people’s freedoms combined with Canada being dyed a new colour has tensions rising on all sides. The victims of said crimes, the perpetrators, and of course the rising cost of living and the struggling economy is hurting everyone.
The reputation Canadians have of being “nice” is being tested, we have historically demonstrated that we are not welcoming, and once again we are showing the world how much we do not want an influx of for-
eigners to take up space inside our borders. Canada has its own unique culture, which is a mixture of several different diasporas. When that is overshadowed by one particular culture, it is easy to garner dislike towards a particular group of people.
Xenophobia is running rampant, causing fear among the citizens of Canada. Hate is a combination of all these factors coming together. Canadians are accustomed to immigration, most Canadians are first-generation, however they are being overwhelmed by one demographic, and one culture. With all this going on. Canadians are fed up, and as such, causing issues to pop up in every level of Canadian society.
So what is the remedy? Many people online advocate for deportation, but is that a fair reaction to the growing issues? Should Canada focus on itself before welcoming immigrants into its borders? The answer is ultimately yes. Canada needs to solidify its own economy before it opens its doors for others to come here and struggle, and add to the stresses that Canadians are already facing.
I had the privilege of meeting Jay Douglas many years ago at a small Jamaican variety store called “Wire’s Variety.” I had heard about his musical abilities; I was curious, and so I asked him what it takes to be good at his craft musically. I will never forget his answer, he said, “Meh bredda, you affi married the music.”
For the very few who do not know who Jay Douglas is, sit tight. We are going on a journey to meet this musical icon who sings almost every genre of music there is and then some.
With almost five decades of musical experience under his belt, Mr. Douglas is indeed a musical force to reckon with anytime and every time he hits the stage.
Born in Montego Bay Jamaica, Douglas migrated to Toronto as a teen in the early sixties and began pounding the pavement musically. This journey would see him becoming the frontman for a then-well-known group called the Cougars in the 60s and 70s.
Experiencing Douglas’ performance is like watching and listening to a magician pull trick after trick out of a musical bag. You never know what genre he is going to touch next, and his audience will testify that his dance moves can rival the late James Brown any day.
That said, Douglas has not only thrilled Canadian and U.S. audiences with his electrifying presence but has many international appearances to his credit as well. From Hong Kong to Cuba and more Jay Douglas lights a musical fire wherever he shows up.
Douglas has amassed many awards over his lengthy career, the lineup goes something like this: “Male
The ultimate entertainer Plays It Loud JAY DOUGLAS
Reggae Vocalist” in 2007 at the annual Canadian Reggae Awards and given the Harry Jerome Award for Best Performer. Douglas is also a three-time Juno nominee, with his album Lovers Paradise winning Best Reggae Recording of the Year and was the winner of NOW Magazine’s “Best R&B Act” in 2006.
To this day he continues to tour as Jay Douglas and The All-Star Band and has worked with many famous musicians from around the planet including gospel icon the late Cissy Houston, mother of the late Whitney Houston. Douglas is exceptionally humble but has a mental library of knowledge concerning the early years of: Reggae, Ska, and Rocksteady in Canada that can rival any encyclopedia.
I was recently honored to do an interview with this legend and believe me when I say he delivered.
“Who exactly is Jay Douglas?” I asked. “Jay Douglas is a child of the most- high, the creator. Music is an international language, and the creator has chosen me to be one of the messengers, to deliver the message of peace and love and that is what I have been doing for so many years,” he answered.
Douglas spoke highly of his mother who came to Canada in 1955 as a domestic worker to pave the way so that he could follow nine years later.
Douglas revealed how just hours after he came to Canada, his mom sat him down and asked, “So what do you want to do with your life?”
I told her “I want to get some Chubby Checker shoes and a suit, “ and she replied, “Come again? I brought you here to be somebody.”
“You are going to need education,” my mother said, “And we are not going to compromise that.”
Long story short; Douglas attended Central Tech High School, and it was from there that he unknowingly entered an audition for the band called the Cougars at what was then known as the WIF (aka West Indian Federation Club).
Douglas gave me a little history lesson on what it was like with a band like the Cougars. “We had to learn how to play the: American soul, Rock and roll, and RnB Motown music so we could piggyback the: Ska, Rocksteady, and Reggae too.”
Jay and the Cougars with time got to play at the famous (Le Coq d’Or) club on Yonge Street in Toronto, a club back then that was seriously high class, and the story goes on.
After tearing down many musical barriers in the city the band began touring Canada from Barrie and did many shows right into Montreal. This was done using a Pontiac with a rack on top which carried their instruments.
Douglas described Toronto as a very conservative city back then, “It is a very conservative city yuh know, when meh say conservative, dem time deh the church dem run things you know.”
“Once we got into Quebec my brother, automatically we were superstars.” That was how receptive Douglas, and his band found the climate there. “Quebec treated us royally; they are known to make stars out of an artist before they leave,” he said.
It was at Club Sahara in Montreal where Douglas met Cissy Houston. “Those days you worked six days a week,” Douglas told me.
This musical maestro said he got some very important advice from Cissy Houston, who once said to him “Young man when you get up there be accountable, kick some ass, when you get down, come back to earth, be yourself. That’s the reason whenever you see me performing, I don’t play when I am up there, I work.”
“This music is a gift from the most high and we must treat it with reverence,” Douglas said, “Because the ego seeks to get, but the soul seeks to give.”
Douglas life’s work has been put in a documentary produced by Ultramagnetic called “Play It Loud” which will be screening in Toronto on February 6th, 2025. I asked him how this made him feel, and he answered. “I feel good, because everything that I’ve done, or tried to do I gave and I am still giving from the soul to leave a legacy for the young generation, because they are the gems of the future.”
Play it Loud is directed by Graeme Mathieson, executive producers are Clement Virgo and Andrew Munger with executive producers for TVO-Alexandra Roberts and Jane Jankovic.
Douglas left me thinking, as he said to me, “Everything starts with an idea, and if you do not execute the idea, it goes dormant.”
Written by Michael Thomas Toronto
Photo Credit: Eric Alper
Photo Credit: Sanj P Photography
Caribbean News
KIRK DIAMOND
WITH AMOYEE
NOVEMBER 23, 2024 / 8:00PM
Join multi-JUNO Award-winning artists Kirk Diamond, with his band The Movement of Ahryel, and Ammoye as they light up the Rose Mainstage with their dynamic blend of reggae, soul, and R&B.
Friday, November 15
O cial Tree Lighting Ceremony 6:45 pm Ken Whillans Square
Free admission on Friday with the donation of a new unwrapped toy in support of local organizations.
Saturday, November 16
Brampton Winter Artist Market 11–4 pm
Brampton Santa Claus Parade 5 pm
Scurvy is a terrible disease that has been eradicated, right? The disease is caused by a deficiency of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), found in oranges and other fruits and vegetables. But that simple fact was unknown between 1500 and 1747 when it’s estimated two million European sailors died while exploring the oceans. On long voyages, it was accepted that half of the crew would never return. It was a slow, painful death, but James Lind of the British Royal Navy is credited with conducting the first controlled clinical trial recorded in medi-
It’s mind boggling that scurvy is back
cal science. He compared how sailors fared when given a variety of different remedies, including oranges and lemons.
Shockingly, in 2024, scurvy is back in the news. How could this be?
A report in the Canadian Medical Association Journal details the case of a 65-yearold woman diagnosed with scurvy at the Toronto General Hospital in 2023. Her diet consisted of canned soup, canned tuna, white bread and processed cheese, and no fresh product.
Dr. Sally Engelhart, an author of the report and specialist in internal medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto, says it’s not the first case she has seen, particularly among the poor and elderly.
Although scurvy is understood as a disease of the past, we now need to return it to consideration when patients and doctors are thinking about symptoms.
What are the symptoms? After eight to 12 weeks of vitamin C deficiency, you will notice fatigue, see bruising occur-
ring more easily, and gums will bleed on brushing the teeth. Bones will ache and hair follicles will become bright red.
If you miss all these symptoms and fail to see your doctor, you are in trouble. Continued deficiency results in spontaneous internal bleeding, destruction of red blood cells, and finally death.
Here’s the ridiculous part and misleading facts. The U.S. Food and Nutrition Board has set the Recommended Daily Allowance of vitamin C at 45 milligrams (mg) a day. Health Canada recommends 15-90 mg depending on age and gender – as if such miniscule variations are consequential! In fact, for good health, people should be getting much more. Only 45 mg will prevent scurvy, but for: cardiovascular health, immune system strength, and many other benefits, much higher intake is essential. Aging makes it harder for the body to function, a reality that can be mitigated with high doses of vitamin C, a nutrient that fuels cells throughout the body.
Get rid of the thought that scurvy
is a disease that only killed sailors long ago. Scurvy is still rare, but the data in North America show rates are on the rise. Why? Well, people are falling victim to utterly abysmal nutrition. You don’t need an economics degree to know that people with low incomes often skip meals or eat poor quality food. People who can and should make better choices are placing food on the table that is so unhealthy it lacks even the small amount of vitamin C needed to prevent deficiency.
For the information of recent readers, I had a heart attack 27 years ago at the age of 74 and refused cholesterol-lowering drugs due to their many complications. Rather, I followed the advice of Dr. Linus Pauling and have taken at least 6,000 mg of C together with lysine every day since then. I believe it’s saved my life. Smaller amounts – 2,000 or 4,000 mg (but not 45 mg) – of vitamin C daily will always be beneficial for heart health, all organs of the body, and increased immunity. You won’t be worried about scurvy, but about living past 100!
We need to understand that sex is not a game
SYDNEE WALCOTT
sydnee@carib101.com
VARIETY CORNER
One of the most meaningful purposes of sex is to help create an emotional connection between two people who love one another. However, nowadays, hookup culture is making people forget how serious sex is and the repercussions of being reckless with it.
Hookup culture has a long history that stretches back to the 1920’s and continued to grow from there throughout the rest of the 20th century. Currently in the 21st century, we are now in a day and age where hookup culture is socially acceptable, and it’s quite worrisome.
For some, hookup culture is liberating because it gives them a sense of
iour that can lead to consequences that are unavoidable.
Unplanned pregnancies have happened because of a hookup. When hooking up with someone you don’t want to be tied to, you can have a child with them. These types of situations often lead to people having an unhealthy co-parenting relationship with their child’s mother. or father.
STDs are another consequence you are putting yourself at risk for when engaging in hookup culture. While STDs like syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomoniasis are curable: hepatitis B, herpes, HPV and HIV/AIDS are not. Another point many tend to look over is that not everyone who has an STD and knows it will disclose that information to a potential hookup partner.
I was watching a PetTeaBlog video on YouTube where a woman, whose name remains unknown, revealed she caught HIV from a man who had the virus, and has since passed away, did not disclose it. She then says it is not her responsibility to reveal her status to anyone who shows an interest in her, because she feels they should get to know someone first instead of attempting to
STEVEN KASZAB
steven@carib101.com
INSIGHT TO SOCIETY
and you the electorate, but behind that
mask is perhaps someone else, the true self. We can see this in the present-day American elections, where candidates hide their true intentions behind: propaganda, mocked platforms and promises that simply cannot happen.
Donald Trump promised to build a wall and get Mexico to pay for it. A few miles of wall were built, and the American taxpayer paid for it. A politician will first off create fear of foreign interlopers, demonize them, come up with some ideas of how to protect the electorate, make promises and then dine on the many donations that will come in. The mask will present someone who is in control of themselves, managing the situation well, but chaos could reign within them.
Do people truly love you, or the mask you put on daily? Will we know the real person behind the mask, and do we truly want to know? A story about a horrible man may explain this clearly. Hans was a guard of superior rank, a manager within the extermination camp of
hookup with someone they don’t know. Sleeping with someone you do not know is highly dangerous. So, the woman made a good point sharing how important it is to get to know someone first before having sex with them. However, someone’s health isn’t anything to toy with. If you have an STD, whether it be HIV, or something curable like syphilis, you need to disclose that information to someone you are interested in. In some places, knowingly transmitting an STD is actually illegal. While it is wrong to be dishon-
est about your status, we need to stop treating sex like a game for this reason, along with other reasons. Sleeping with just any and everyone has more cons than pros. One moment of temporary pleasure is not worth dying from an STD. So, if you’re thinking about engaging in a hookup, just think about that, and prioritize your health and self-respect. However, if you want to continue to hookup with people, use protection, get tested, and be honest about your status to people you may want to hookup with.
Majdanek where between 1941 to 1945 78,000+ people were exterminated.
Now Hans was a family man, happily married for fifteen years with three children. A member of several local charity clubs, a part time firefighter and all-round good fellow, loved and admired by all. Many of his neighbors claimed to not know what he did at the camp except to say it was very important. Hans would walk to work and then back home again, and during that walk transformed into a: logical, cruel psychopath, a mass murderer, torturer and sexual fiend. The crueler he was, the more promotions and accolades he received from his superiors. So, here is a man who wore a mask while he was at home, outside of the camp, but inside of himself roared a persona of destruction, cruelty and hate. Masks can hide the worst and the best of you. We wear masks that present to the world a more acceptable image of ourselves.
Who among us is genuinely real, seen by others as a real McCoy? Marty
Rubin once said “A name is a mask, a hiding place. We are all nameless inside of ourselves.” The real you is challenged daily to be many things such as an employee, or boss, a father, husband, friend and neighbor. We face both a sense of responsibility and accountability because of these masks. Do we need to wear masks? There are times we must face a situation that demands of us to be something we are usually not. Sure, if a mask helps, go for it. The real you, the genuine article is far more interesting and important to reveal to others. It is not easy, and yes masks do hide you, your pain, emotions and fears, but your personal originality is key. They say your deity knows all, and one day you will have to reveal all of yourself, what you have done and what you have failed to do to all who knew you. So, let’s see the real you. If you’re having difficulty in the reveal, just ask for help. It’s available.
Stoicism: A mental toolkit for navigating life’s ups and downs
SIMONE SMITH
Most recently, stoicism, an ancient philosophy, has been offering me a powerful framework for navigating many of life’s challenges and finding inner peace. It has taught me how to focus on what I can control – my thoughts, actions, and responses – rather than worrying about things outside my power. This means accepting things I can’t change and focusing on what I can improve.
Stoics believe in practicing virtues like wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance. By developing these qualities, I have become better at handling life’s challenges with greater resilience, and I now find happiness even in difficult circumstances.
This week, I am going to do a mini-introduction to stoicism, and over the next few editions, I am going to offer what you would call a mental toolkit for navigating life’s ups and downs. Stoicism helps you stay calm, make better decisions, and find meaning in every situation. Let’s start with a brief exploration of three of my favourite Stoic philosophers. These thinkers, with their timeless wisdom, have inspired and guided individuals seeking a more fulfilling and resilient life.
Epictetus: The Enslaved Philosopher
“Don’t hope that events will turn out the way you want, welcome events in whichever way they happen this is the path to peace.”
Born a slave, Epictetus’s life was marked by adversity. Yet, he found solace and strength in Stoic philosophy. His teachings emphasize the power of inner freedom and the importance of focusing on what we can control. Epictetus reminds us that true happiness lies in our minds, not in external circumstances.
Why his wisdom resonates with me is because I am aware of my transgenerational trauma, and what my ancestors went through as enslaved people. Although we might be physically free, many of us are still mentally enslaved, and at times I feel enslaved by my chaotic thoughts. I am still working on controlling my thoughts, but his words remind me that I must only focus on what I can control and find ways to channel my thoughts in a positive direction.
Marcus Aurelius: The Philosopher Emperor
“Do everything as if it were the last thing you were doing in your life.”
`As the Roman Emperor, Marcus Aurelius led a demanding life. However, he found solace in Stoic philosophy. His “Meditations” is a personal journal filled with reflections on life, death, and the human condition. Marcus Aurelius’s wisdom encourages us to live in the present moment, to cultivate gratitude, and to accept the impermanence of all things.
Anyone reading this article can
relate to how hard it is to live in the moment. We can speak to it, but actually doing it is a task. Becoming more familiar with his greatest set of work “Meditations” has brought me to a place of realization that life is short. I cannot waste any more time worried about the past, or the future, because I have no control over them. I only have control over my moments, and I am going to enjoy them to the fullest.
Seneca: The Stoic Statesman “How does it help…to make troubles heavier by bemoaning them? Seneca was a Roman statesman, philosopher, and dramatist. His writings explore a wide range of Stoic themes, including the nature of virtue, the pursuit of happiness, and the importance of living a simple life. Seneca emphasizes the value of self-control, moderation, and the ability to find joy in the present moment.
Most of us are guilty of holding onto things that bother us and complaining about them to anyone who will listen. My closest friends will tell you that I ruminate, and talk about what is wrong incessantly. What happens is this amplifies the issues, and makes them a lot worse than they are. Now, I am learning to voice how I feel, and then speak to a therapist about working through the issue. Growth is something else.
Stoicism empowers us to weather life’s storms with resilience and equanimity. It encourages us to cultivate virtues like wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance, leading to a more fulfilling and meaningful existence. In a world often characterized by uncertainty and stress, Stoicism provides a timeless guide for living a life of purpose, contentment, and inner strength.
CBD and pets; man’s best friend helping man’s other best friend
legged friends are looking for.
CBD is one of over 100 chemical compounds, or “cannabinoids” found in the cannabis plant. While it is considered non-psychoactive (as in, it won’t get you “high”), CBD has been found to cause some physiological effects in humans. Proponents of human use CBD claim it helps a wide range of issues, from sleep and anxiety disorders to more complex health conditions like diabetes, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. It is also thought to be effective for nausea and pain relief.
In both the U.S. and Canada, CBD products are legal if they do not contain more than 0.3% THC. Additional local restrictions may apply. That said, veterinarians cannot legally prescribe CBD, and there are some different laws in place regarding its use for animals. Pet owners should be aware that while CBD is generally considered to be safe, THC has been shown to be toxic to them. It is because of this; all CBD pet treats and supplements should contain as close to zero percent THC as possible.
Important to note is that cats and dogs metabolize CBD much faster than humans due to having simpler digestive systems with dogs metabolizing slightly faster than cats. So dosages for them must be much lower than any product made for human consumption. Canada does have laws in place regarding CBD for pets and while there are some legal pet health products that contain hemp, both: Health Canada and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association
do not currently endorse the administration of CBD to pets, nor do they ban it.
While scientific studies have failed to definitively prove that CBD can help cure illnesses within pets, a recent 2024 scientific study in Kentucky, USA has proven that pets given CBD over long periods have little to no adverse effects. Ailments with the most anecdotal evidence showing that CBD can help pets are neurological ones like anxiety and hyperactivity. By helping to reduce stress creating hormones, CBD products can be used to help calm pets down in a manner similar to humans.
Physical issues that can be helped by CBD include problems that require pain relief such as arthritis, or gastrointestinal pain like nausea. Giving your pet the ability to walk or eat more comfortably is an undeniable game changer for their quality of life. CBD has also been known to help reduce the intensity and frequency of seizures in pets afflicted with this horrible condition. Once again, it is important to know that just like humans, every pet may have different experiences with CBD. So, thinking that it will be a cure to all sickness for every pet is a fantasy.
CBD can be administered to pets in a multitude of ways but most commonly and successfully would be orally through food and snacks. Because CBD itself has little to no taste, it can also be given through oils, sprays and tinctures suitable for pets. The one method to avoid might be topical treatments as these products often contain ingredients not ideal for internal consumption. Without the use of a restraining device like a neck cone, dogs and cats will reliably use their tongues to remove any foreign substance from their bodies.
The best practice for using CBD with pets is just like with humans, go low and go slow. Small dosages over a controlled period of time will help you to determine whether it can help your family member with their problems. It is always advised to confer with your veterinarian before giving your pet CBD even knowing that they cannot legally prescribe it to you. Ultimately, the choice will be up to you and the best choice you can make will derive from making sure you are the most informed about what you’re giving them and where it’s coming from. If you do your research diligently, you may just give your cat or dog a new lease on life!
3
DIY Christmas gift ideas for your friends
Do you want to give presents to your friends this Christmas without spending a lot of money? Good news! You can create unique gifts using materials you already have at home. Try these suggestions for inspiration.
1. A collage
Use old flyers, newspapers or magazines to create a collage with found pictures. Choose images that reflect your friends’ hobbies and interests and cut them out. If you have a colour printer, you can also print out images you’ve found online.
2. A video
Use your computer or smartphone
to create a fun, personalized video for your friends. You can make a funny Christmas greeting, an ad parody, a music video or any other creative content. All it costs is your time.
3. A recipe
If you enjoy cooking, an edible creation makes an excellent gift. Consider making homemade treats such as cookies, chocolate truffles or caramel spreads. Just make sure to ask for your parents’ help if you need to purchase ingredients or use the stove.
Have fun creating your gifts!
Christmas vacation: what can you do between the two big celebrations?
Not going to school during the holiday season is an excellent opportunity to have fun in a variety of ways. Are you short on ideas to keep yourself busy between Christmas and New Year’s Day celebrations? Here’s some inspiration.
• Make a snow sculpture. If the snow is nice and sticky, build a snowman—or several! Why not create some other original work of art? Animals, vehicles, castles and more—the only limits are those in your imagination!
• Have a PJ day. Spending the day in your pyjamas is great, especially the day after a late-night party! For added comfort, wear soft slippers or warm socks. What’s on the agenda? Only re -
laxing activities you enjoy, like reading or drawing.
• Play board games. You need only two people to play countless board games! Take advantage of your free time to play your favourite games or try out some new ones. Did you receive one as a Christmas present?
• Try cooking with your family. Some recipes are best prepared in a group. With your family, find one that everyone agrees on, like fruit salad, cookies or doughnuts. Then, buy the missing ingredients, put on some festive music and have fun whipping up a storm together!
From movie nights and video games to treasure hunts, skating, crafts and tobogganing, there’s plenty of fun to be had! How will you spend your time this Christmas week?
You can refinance your home by up to ninety percent to build rental suites
Recently, the Canadian government said that as of January 15th, 2025, homeowners can refinance up to 90% of their home’s value plus the value added by the secondary rental unit. Chrystia Freeland, Canada’s deputy prime minister and finance minister, mentioned that homeowners can spread their payments from twenty-five to thirty years. Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) will insure the mortgage on behalf of the lenders for homes valued as high as two million dollars.
According to Freeland, homeowners can build three more units on a single property, provided the homeowner or a close relative occupies one of the suites. The minister said, “The idea here is to make it easier for people to build a secondary suite in your home, for someone to build a basement flat, a garden flat, laneway housing, this is all about gentle density, creating more homes for Canadians to live in.”
This option does not cater to the regular homeowner. If you add a secondary suite, your home value should increase by about 10%, and if you can refinance your home up to 90% plus the increase in value, then there is little equity remaining in the house. CMHC will charge 4% plus HST to insure a home with a 90% loan-to-value, and if you want the mort-
gage to be portable, the cost goes up to 6.3%. A mortgage of $1,000,000 will cost $45,200 to insure and making it portable will cost $71,190. Instead of protecting the homeowner, this mortgage home insurance protects the lender against default. If a homeowner cannot pay the mortgage and the lender chooses to sell the home under the power of sale, CMHC will cover any shortfall.
Families looking to supplement their income by adding a secondary suite are doing so by giving up some of their quiet enjoyment. This program, disguised as assisting families in building secondary suites, is expensive and can eventually force an inexperienced landlord into bankruptcy.
One grey area is financing. Would CMHC approve financing before the project is completed? Traditionally, to get funding, a homeowner must appraise the property after construction, and then CMHC will insure up to 90% of the improved value. There are many unanswered questions regarding taxation as well. If you have three rental suites plus your living quarters, would the three suites be subject to capital gains tax upon sale?
Homeowners with the budget to build a secondary suite are having a tough time because of how the municipality manages applications. To create a secondary suite, you must hire an architect and submit a permit to the building department. The city may take around two months to approve or disapprove of it. If you need a minor variance, approval can take six months. Once construction starts, that is a different hurdle. The city assigns an inspector to visit the site at
various inspection stages. Many of the inspectors are not user-friendly. Instead of helping to speed up the process, they can extend it.
One homeowner complained that after the framework was complete, the inspector gave the project a thumbs down because a small portion of the secondary suite had a ceiling height of 6.3 feet, while the building code required 6.5 feet. The inspector recommended that the homeowner either raise the ceiling or lower the floor - two impossibilities. You can appeal the process by paying almost $1,000 to the department for a review, which may not be in the homeowner’s favour.
To gain two inches, the homeowner had to change the structure of the entire ductwork, making it broader and
thinner and replacing the current supporting wood beam with a metal beam. To accomplish this, the homeowner had to submit new drawings to the city for approval. The construction cost for two inches of height in a small part of the suite came in at over $10,000, and the project was stalled for around three months.
Many homeowners make financial sacrifices to buy their dream home, and next door, someone is building a four-unit suite. This would lead to disharmony in the neighbourhood. The solution to more housing can be to allow only one suite for every property and assist homeowners in completing the project quickly with a user-friendly approach.
YOUR HOROSCOPE
for the week of November 3 to November 9, 2024
THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: AQUARIUS, PISCES AND ARIES
ARIES: Even if your choices seem clear-cut, take all the time you need to make a final decision. New information could come to light, clarifying the situation and making you see the bigger picture.
TAURUS: Change your diet and find time to relax to avoid heartburn. Balance your lifestyle to maintain your physical and mental health.
GEMINI: Expect to receive special attention from a loved one. You may feel anxious about a medical exam. However, you must be patient. The results will take a little longer than expected.
CANCER: Your leadership skills will be in high demand this week. You’ll fill in for your boss while they’re on vacation and replace a colleague who’s on medical leave. You’ll be the right person to take on these responsibilities.
LEO: A family getaway is in the works. However, sorting out certain details will take longer than expected. You’ll be on the move a lot this week, which will make you appreciate the comforts of home.
VIRGO: Your networking prowess will be needed this week. You’ll be asked to help plan an event that requires your communication, organization and negotiation skills.
LIBRA: You’ll be working overtime this week! Fortunately, your hard work will be rewarded. After adjusting your schedule, take the time to spoil yourself and enjoy the results of your efforts.
SCORPIO: After laying low for a while, you’ll finally be ready to act. Family and friends will challenge you. You’ll have the money to tackle a special project or treat yourself to some welldeserved luxuries.
SAGITTARIUS: Although you may feel as if you’re treading water, everything will soon pick up speed. Carefully look over your bills to avoid being dinged for a mistake.
CAPRICORN: You and your team will accomplish a remarkable feat. You’ll be awarded in front of a crowd. This experience will boost your selfesteem and self confidence.
AQUARIUS: Your impressive roster of clients will bring in additional income this week. Explore spiritual practices or adopt a lifestyle in line with your convictions.
PISCES: Keep an eye on your deadlines to complete your tasks on time. You may spontaneously plan a trip, which will make you very happy. Remember the saying, “Slow and steady wins the race.”
CROSSWORDS
HOW TO PLAY :
Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.
Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column, or 3x3 box.
PUZZLE NO. 117
PUZZLE NO. 827
905-809-9200
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The importance of oil changes in cold weather
Oil changes are a critical aspect of vehicle maintenance and even more important in cold weather. As temperatures drop, motor oil can thicken, reducing its ability to flow smoothly through the engine. This decreased viscosity can cause increased friction and wear on engine components. Here’s what you need to know.
Utmost importance
Winter oil changes are a necessity. They ensure your engine is always filled with fresh oil that can effectively lubricate and protect its parts, even in low temperatures. Cold weather can also cause condensation inside the engine. Fresh oil acts as a shield, mitigating this risk and providing better protection and performance.
Moreover, old or dirty oil can become sludgy in cold weather, which can impede the engine’s ability to start smoothly in cold conditions. This sludge can also
block vital passages, further stressing the engine and leading to potential damage over time.
Get the right oil
Using the right oil type for winter is crucial. Many manufacturers recommend synthetic oils for cold weather because they maintain better viscosity at low temperatures, ensuring smoother engine operation.
When choosing oil, pay attention to the viscosity ratings, particularly the “W,” which stands for “winter.” It indicates the oil’s thickness at colder temperatures. For example, oils labelled with lower numbers before the “W,” such as 5W-30 or 0W30, offer better protection in winter weather compared to oils with a higher number, like 10W-40.
Visit your local auto repair shop for a winter oil change.
Winter car wash: what to prioritize and avoid
Winter roads are often laden with salt and grime, which can corrode and damage your vehicle’s paint and undercarriage. Regular washing helps remove these substances to keep your car in top condition. Follow these dos and don’ts when washing your car:
• Do opt for a touchless wash. Touchless car washes use high-pressure water jets to penetrate hard-to-reach areas, removing dirt and debris from every nook and cranny. Additionally, many touchless car washes include a drying feature, which is crucial in winter to prevent frozen door seals and locks.
• Don’t use a brush wash. Although they’re convenient, brush washes can scratch your vehicle’s paint. The bristles can trap road salt and grime, which can then be dragged across the surface, causing abrasions and potential longterm damage to the paintwork.
• Don’t wash in extremely cold temperatures. Washing your car in temperatures below -20 C can cause water to freeze quickly on the vehicle, leading to damaging ice buildup. Instead, choose warmer days or wash your car in a heated garage if possible.
Visit your local car wash to ensure your car remains clean, protected, and in optimal condition throughout winter.
• Do wax. Applying a coat of wax after washing your car provides an extra layer of protection against the harsh winter elements. Wax helps repel water and prevents salt and grime from sticking to the paint, preserving your car’s finish and preventing rust and other longterm damage.
