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CHAOS, CONSPIRACY & CONTROVERSY
SIMONE J. SMITH/TORONTO CARIBBEAN “The media’s the most powerful entity on earth. They have the power to make the innocent guilty and to make the guilty innocent, and that’s power. Because they control the minds of the masses.” ~ Malcom X Everywhere you turn, there are news stories surrounding the chaos, conspiracy and controversy that are happening at a global level. There is such an influx of information; it can seem deafening at times. You don’t know
who to trust, who is telling you the truth, and who has an agenda. It is hard to tell real journalism from personal sentiments, and it is why in this edition, we are going to provide recent updates on some of the top controversial stories that are happening right now. We encourage you to dissect the information in an objective way, which at times can be difficult. Let us ask ourselves a few questions before we begin. What is the differ-
ence between a conspiracy and a conspiracy theory? Who is most likely to believe in conspiracies, and why do so many people believe them? Is there some test of truth we can apply when we hear about a conspiracy that can help us determine if the theory about it is true or false? With all the information being spread through social media and other media platforms, whom do we trust as media consumers? Continued On Page 8
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PAGE 2
FEATURE
Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
MARIA DRIVEN (THEODORE)
Celebrity publicist and recognized player “I am a researcher. I looked for everything Caribbean. I need to find people like you. It’s about partnership and longevity. Trust me girl! As soon as this COVID-19 is over, it’s you and me!” Her throaty laugh filled my ear. This was going to be a fun interview. Let’s back up a bit. At the beginning of this year, I started to receive emails from Marie Driven. I realized that she was somehow involved in public relations because of her communication style. We quickly began to build a rapport. I appreciated her tenacity, dedication to her clients, and her intensity. I had no idea the woman who I had been dialoguing with via email was such a force. She has been featured in: The Source, Medium Authority Magazine, Insoltric Entertainment, Caribbean Times, by Caribbean Magazine, HelloBeautiful, VIBE, Zimbio, she appeared on ENews as Influencer at New York’s Fashion Week, Hello Beautiful, and DMV. The New York State Assembly has recognized her for her exemplary service; she was awarded a certificate of special congressional recognition, she has received merit achievements, and honoured at the Unlabelled Awards for her outstanding work in the communications industry. Her client roster is diverse and is not limited to the music industry, but you cannot deny her notability. She has been involved in projects with the likes of: celebrity stylist Kidear Youmans, Peter Gunz, Wyclef Jean, Papoose Jr. Reid, Remy Ma, Marian Hall (aka Lady Saw), Sting Jamaica, and Mr. Vegas. She is the face of Playbook Media Group, a company that was co-founded with her partner Jean Jones, and she is a known player in the entertainment scene. This beautiful Haitian native doesn’t play when it comes to: her career, her clients, her money or her reputation. I am proud to present to the Toronto Caribbean community, Marie (Driven) Theodore. “When you start something that you didn’t go to school for, it is a challenge.” What got me off the jump with Marie was her authenticity. Her energy was bold, and within minutes of speaking with her, I knew that she was a force to be reckoned with. I had a list of questions planned, but
once she started speaking, the interview took on a life of its own. “I was born in Bushwick, New York, and I am a proud Haitian. I speak Creole fluently, and I embrace everything that makes me a Caribbean woman. I actually fell into this line of work by mistake. My ex-boyfriend at the time - who happens to now be my business partner - used to do travel shows for buyers. At the time he represented a brand called Yardmanstyle Inc, and I decided to go on the road with him. My first time out, I personally helped him sell over $20,000 worth of goods. I think I shocked myself, but it gave me the motivation to want to learn everything about the fashion industry. It was not too long after that I was offered a position at Marc Ekco GUnit. My journey had begun. My first position was as an account executive. Here, I basically showed, learned the in’s and out’s of the industry. Marc made sure I was prepared for the future, by introducing me to all the buyers. He obviously knew something I didn’t, because not long after, the economy took a hit. I ended up working for BP Records, and moved to their Queen’s office. I will never forget it. It was like a dungeon. I knew that this was not it for me, so I moved on.” Marie started to grind. She made sure she stayed on the scene by showing up to clubs, and presenting herself as the person to know. She soon found a niche market with Reality TV stars. When she linked up with the Bad Girls Club, her aim was to give them more than their 15 minutes of fame. Not long after, she linked up with DJ Magic and began to represent him. Within five months he found a home at Hot 97, and has held it down ever since. This led to bigger names and larger commitments. She was hype when she got the opportunity to work with Reggae superstar Lexxus, and was disappointed when he lost his Visa. This opportunity only led to a chance to produce a music video with Mr Vegas, Sean Paul, and Fat Man Scoop, and finally, one of her favourite experiences was when she met up with Junior Reid, and he became one of her clients. “Junior Reid helped me get in. I was petty as hell. ‘Whispered to him, I told you I
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would get it.” The story behind this quote is hilarious. She shared with me the story of the first time she met Junior Reid in Barbados. “To be honest Simone, I think that he liked my friend, but she was paying him no mind. I used this opportunity to introduce myself, and it went well. I remember that my friend and I were trying to get into a party, and the bouncer was acting really funny. He would not let us in to V.I.P., and I was not used to that. I was used to getting into V.I.P. no problem, but this bouncer was not hearing me. When Junior Reid showed up, he had me join him and I walked right by that bouncer and whispered in his ear, ‘I told you I would get it.’ I know, petty as hell.” Although they have had their differences, Marie and her partner Jean Jones realized that they could make magic together. He helped her develop a business model that would pay her what she was worth. “We are the monster team. I know a lot now. I am a sponge, so I adapt. Our agency is not just a PR firm. We are more then that. We take care of photography, distribution, press releases, any and everything that our clients need.” Between the two of them, they have developed an impressive roster of current and former project affiliations, and they now act as a platform that reaches audiences in the millions globally. “My job is to keep my clients going no matter what. You know the real hustlers from the fakers. When things happen, the fake ones don’t know what to do. My job is to motivate people. In this industry, my clients are not just artists they are also business people. They need me, and I need them, and it works out well.” Marie Driven is truly a woman empowered, and I am proud to be working with such dynamic feminine energy. You can find her on her website at https://www.playbookmg.com/about, and you can definitely hit her up on social media at her handle @mariedriven.
Written by Simone J. Smith Toronto Caribbean News Photo: Playbookmg
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NEWS
PAGE 3
Cabin Fever Countdown: “We are Turks & Caicos!” SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
I am not sure what caught me first; it might have been the exotic flock of birds, or the blue of the ocean as the dolphin leaped out of it. Of course, there was the beauty of the white sand beach, and the aerial shot of the blue-green ocean. It all looked so serene. It got my mind going, and it made me want to ask readers a question; when this lockdown is over, where is the first island you want to visit? In the fall of 2019, I started a series called, “Winter Wish List.” Without setting limits on one’s imagination, I wanted readers to close their eyes and visualize their dream trip. Too often, we say we want to take that amazing vacation, and make special mem-
ories. Yet, there is always a reason why we can’t: time, we are two busy, the children, not enough money, and now, a pandemic. It’s time to start setting our sights on the future. I am starting a new series with the hopes of building excitement and anticipation to post lockdown. Dreaming of adventures to come can significantly boost overall happiness (Journal Applied Research in Quality of Life, 2010). Research has also shown that planning a vacation benefits us by: increasing physical health, happiness and career success. I would like to welcome all readers to our new travel series, Cabin Fever Countdown. Our first island is comprised of 40 islands and cays. It has been called “Beautiful by Nature,” and for good reason. The Caribbean is known for its clear, blue waters, but our feature island will not be outdone with shades of blue ranging from tourmaline to deep azure. The sublime waters call to water enthusiasts; whether it’s: sailing, windsurfing, kite boarding, kayaking or just taking a dip, there is just something about feeling that warm, clear water against your skin. Finally, the soft, wide-stretched beaches line the stunning, scenic coast, of
the beautiful Turks & Caicos. Turks and Caicos islands welcomed a total of 1,598,557 visitor arrivals in 2019, which is a 9% increase of arrivals overall compared to the previous year’s record-breaking figures. These arrivals compose of: 486,739 stopover and 1,111,818 from cruises. The American market accounted for 82% of the destination’s land based arrivals; Canada followed by Europe accounted for 9% and 4% of stopover arrival shares respectively. (Turks and Caicos Tourism Statistics Report, 2019) Let’s be honest; it is not hard to have an island like Turks and Caicos at the top of your countdown catalogue. The Turks and Caicos Tourist Board has launched a new marketing campaign that promotes incredibly, breath-taking imagery and highlights the ‘Beautiful by Nature’ island. The Tourist Board commissioned local media firm Caya Hico to produce ‘We Are Turks and Caicos’ which showcases the best of the islands including notable experiences such as Flamingo Pond, Island Fish Fry, and Mudjin Harbour. “The promotional campaign will be rolled out in a phased approach over
the next six months and is focused on: digital marketing through social media, streaming platforms, redesign of our destination brochure and website, and an updated strategic public relations plan. During this difficult time, while a global health crisis affects the travel and tourism industry, we are using the video to send a message to our industry partners and visitors to remind them that we’re all in this together. We are encouraging them to stay safe and when the time is right the Turks and Caicos Islands will be waiting to welcome them once again to our world class destination.” Pamela Ewing (Director of Tourism) Turks & Caicos beckons you to visit an undiscovered Caribbean. The video is available by visiting the following link: https://youtu.be/UL5_IUXbbBw. Turks and Caicos Tourism Statistics Report, 2019 http://turksandcaicostourism.com/visitorstatistics/
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NEWS
Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
“Food is a universal language” Community partners band together to address food insecurity SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
According to Feed Ontario, 510,000+ people (33% of them children) have visited provincial food banks three million times between April 1st, 2018 and March 31st, 2019. It is estimated that this number will continue to rise, as more people will need food banks in the coming weeks. Families are dealing with: loss of jobs, home schooling, paying bills and trying to get by on employment insurance. Community organizations have had to get creative with how they operate
during this global pandemic. There is a lot of pressure because everyone is facing the same issues. Households, who have never visited a food bank before, have now had to swallow their pride and do what it takes to keep food on the table. Emmanuel Life Management Centre (ELMC) is a non-profit organization, established in 2010 to address the increasing challenges that face the youth of Toronto. Founder Janel Simpson-Campbell oversees all operational aspects of the organization’s food bank, which is only one of the services that is offered to the community. She assists in conducting client assessments and intakes for families of lowincome, or those who are homeless. She advocates on behalf of clients for support services and utilizes her knowledge of Ontario Works legislation and Ontario disability support to aid the community. ELMC’S Food Program continues to service clients during this challeng-
ing time They have partnered with Hear 2 Help, Second Harvest, and Spice-it-UpRestaurant to better serve our vulnerable communities in Scarborough. The pick-up and delivery program is located at 4352 Kingston Road. They will be offering other essential services such as medication pick-up and food drop-offs. They are strictly following Public Health Ontario guidelines and taking additional precautions to keep employees, volunteers and clients safe. In addition to regular cleaning and hygienic practices, they are implementing social distancing measures. “We are working to create a program to reach our most vulnerable clients in time of social isolation with a vision,” Janel explains. “Food is a universal language and a basic necessity for everyone.” “Our food program will be open every Wednesday from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. In compliance with social distancing,
we are creating pre-packed hampers for our clients. Hampers are distributed outside the front doors of the restaurant with no access inside. We ask that all clients receiving hampers keep a safe distance of 6 feet from one another. Our staff will be positioned inside the dining area and at the front door to hand out hampers. We ask for your support and cooperation during this time.” If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, they ask that you stay home. If you are seniors, unable to leave your home for health reasons or you are in self-isolation due to other circumstances you can contact them at elmc2010@hotmail.ca or hear2help@hotmail.ca. You can also give them a call at 437-886-4694 and they will arrange delivery for you with our volunteers. “We want to thank our community partners, local businesses, and donors for their support.”
NEWS
Wednesday, April 29, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News
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Smart Serve Ontario (a company recognized by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission) is the official delivery agent of the Responsible Alcohol Beverage Sales and Service Training Program for Ontario. They wanted to give back and support the immediate need for more food delivery drivers during the COVID-19 pandemic, with intentions to further help support the hospitality and tourism industry of Ontario. On March 26th, 2020, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) announced new measures that would temporarily allow liquor-licensed establishments to sell beer, wine, and spirits as part of food orders for takeout or delivery. With that announcement, the AGCO and Smart Serve Ontario made the decision to partner to provide free access, for a limited time, to the Smart Serve Responsible Alcohol Sales and Service Training Program. Mary D’Alton, Board Chair of Smart Serve Ontario expressed, “We have had such an extraordinary response from the: community, job training partners, and institutions. We thank you. We are happy to know so many have benefited from this initiative,� she continued. “This opportunity has been able to support 100,000 enrollments, a value of $3.5 Million, and that makes us proud.� As a result of the tremendous response, the program has had to close the offer. For individuals who have started their online training, they still have 30-days from
the date of enrollment to complete the training and certification test. The Smart Serve Online training program continues to be available for $34.95 + tax. The Smart Serve Online program provides more options in career pathways and opens up businesses to wider consumers, which is beneficial for our communities in Ontario. “The company’s mandate is to support the industry. As we maneuver through our constantly changing environment and society, we are finding new ways to educate and support the public. We knew we wanted to do something to help,� said Richard Anderson (Executive Director Smart Serve Ontario). “We are excited to know that so many people are becoming certified, educated, and ready to work safely, when we are back and open for business.� Responsibility when consuming still remains an important focus of Smart Serve Ontario. “We want to continue to make sure all Ontarians are making informed and responsible choices when consuming alcohol, even in their home environment.� Individual certification training can be completed online 24/7. Get ready to learn with: short videos, quizzes, text/ audio, activities, and games before completing the Final Certification Test online. The program has been translated and is now available in six different languages: English, French, Chinese, Korean, Punjabi, and Spanish. The training will prepare you to work in any environment where alcohol is sold, served, or sampled in the province of Ontario. If you are interested in taking the program feel free to check out the link below.
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CANADA’S LEADING CARIBBEAN NEWSPAPER Selina McCallum TC REPORTER selina@carib101.com
Noel Cunningham FOOD | CULINARY noel@carib101.com
Dave Rankin AFRICAN HISTORY dave@carib101.com
Jay Brijpaul REAL ESTATE jay@carib101.com
TORONTO CARIBBEAN NEWS INC. 55 Rutherford Rd. S., Suite 205, Brampton ON L6W 3J3 647-722-6298 | www.TOCaribNews.com
Simone J. Smith TC REPORTER simone@carib101.com
Dave Rankin TC REPORTER dave@carib101.com
Dr. Vikas Puri HEALTH | WELLNESS drpuri@carib101.com
Paul Junor EDUCATION paul@carib101.com
Fazaad Bacchus FINANCE SPECIALIST fazaad@carib101.com
PUBLISHER | EDITOR Grant Browning grant@carib101.com
Michael Thomas TC REPORTER michael@carib101.com
Christina Gwira TC TECH REPORTER christina@carib101.com
Errol A. Gibbs PHILOSOPHER errol@carib101.com
Brittney Channer SOCIAL JUSTICE brittney@carib101.com
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EDITOR | PROOFING Alanna Zelau alanna@carib101.com
Stephen Weir TC REPORTER stephen@carib101.com
Paul Junor TC EDUCATION REPORTER paul@carib101.com
Simone J. Smith HUMAN SPECIALIST simone@carib101.com
Christina Gwira TECHNOLOGY christina@carib101.com
Kayla Karim CARIBBEAN SPORTS kayla@carib101.com
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The statements, opinions and viewpoints made or expressed by the writers do not necessarily represent the opinions and views of the Toronto Caribbean, or the publishers. Toronto Caribbean News Inc. assumes no responsibility or liability for claims, statements, opinions or views, written or reported by its contributing writers, including product or service information that is advertised.
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Wednesday, April 29, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News Photo: Johnathan Lander
CharisMaggieTV, an informative youtube channel with a kick of culture SELINA McCALLUM salina@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
This Youtuber started her Youtube channel three years ago while she was in university in Newfoundland. On her channel, CharisMaggie TV, she covers topics from culture, university life, and basic tips for young adults like managing finances and job hunting. Margarette Leandre’s first ever video project was given to her by her dad, when he asked her to help him with a presentation for the donors who generously give to the Salvation Army. “I always liked the concept of storytelling. Instead of doing a powerpoint, I thought it was better to convey how their money was being spent in a video with words, pictures and background music. I thought it would have more of an effect,” said Leandre. When she started her channel, which currently has over one thousand subscribers, Leandre was posting videos just for herself and her friends to remember the fun times they’ve had. Then, she realized that she could help international students such as herself. “They didn’t really have a lot of guidance especially when they’re moving from their country to another one for school. I’ve moved to three different countries and have had to adapt to the new culture. A lot of students would come up to me and ask me for advice,” said Leandre. Going to school in Newfoundland, where there isn’t much diversity, Leandre saw this as an opportunity to also make videos on culture. Most of the international students bonded because there were in common situations and could understand each other’s struggles. “I interviewed people from different parts of the world so that people could get to know a little bit more about their country,” said the Youtuber. “It was a chance to inform people that there were more countries within the continent of Africa and that not all black people are from Jamaica.” Leandre has covered topics such as Ethiopian foods, Trinidad and Tobago
sayings, and fun facts about Zambia. “Social media is a very powerful platform and a lot of people do use it for negativity. I see a lot of people say ignorant things. I always try to check myself before I post something, I make sure that I think about the people that it could affect,” says Leandre. The digital creator has seen many racial slurs online about the Chinese community since the spread of the coronavirus and feels that this is an opportunity to educate and sympathize than spread hate. She has a video on her Youtube channel titled Lessons from COVID-19 and a video showcasing the routine of an essential worker. “I just want to bring light and show that there is a better way to go about things,” says the Youtuber. Another way she has been bringing light to her followers on her social media platforms is hosting a monthly trivia game called “Under Quarantine Trivia Night” on Sunday on Instagram Live. Four winners can each get a $25 e-gift card to either Bath and Body Works, Tim Hortons or Digicel, which she has funded herself. Although Leandre works in the digital media world, she graduated in 2018 with a triple degree in Bio-Chemistry, Math and a minor in French. She says she found it easy to transfer her skills over. The digital creator has this advice for others who may be interested in starting a Youtube channel. “Make sure you think carefully about what it is you want your channel to be about because there will come a time where your consistency will be tested. It’s really a lot of work in the background, in terms of getting your video out there after you post it,” said Leandre. The slogan for her channel is “Do Road and Do Tings”. She says it’s the perfect slogan to describe what her channel is all about. “It’s a Jamaican saying that is basically the equivalent to Nike’s Just Do It. I was talking to my friend Damian one day, and I said, “I’m gonna go do road” and he replied with “and do tings”. That’s how I came up with it. To me it means whatever it is your enthusiastic about, go ahead and do it and don’t care about what others have to say,” said Leandre. For more information and to watch Leandre’s videos, visit https://www. charismaggietv.com/ and CharisMaggieTV on Instagram.
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LET’S TALK REAL ESTATE
A closer examination of COVID-19 racism, censorship, and philanthropic power SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
Continued From Page 1 --I will start by saying this; make sure you are doing your research. It is easy to get caught up in your emotions, especially during this time. We are all looking for answers, and some of us may jump at a chance to deal with our anxiety by clinging on to a story that resonates with an experience that we are having. This does not make it true. We researched various sources on three major topics: racial discrimination in China, banned conspiracy theory videos falsely linking coronavirus symptoms to 5G networks, and everyone’s favourite topic (besides Trump of course) Philanthropist Bill Gates.
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JAY BRIJPAUL ANJIE BRIJPAUL
Racial discrimination in China Most recently in the news, migrants from sub-Saharan Africa have become the primary target of racial discrimination and abuse in China, especially in the city of Guangzhou. Foreigners who have spent any time in China will have their own stories of racial profiling and discrimination. There can be little argument that no group has been more racially targeted than people from Africa. There has been an all-out assault on Africans living in Guangzhou witnessed globally. There have been videos of: Chinese police rounding up Africans, beating them on the street, forcing them out of their homes and hotels, and denying them access to malls and restaurants. In one report, a pregnant woman was denied access, and in another report, an African woman was stopped at the entrance of a department store, while her Caucasian friend was allowed to go in and was not bothered at all. There have been other incidents that have drawn attention to this despicable situation. An incident that has attracted global attention is the story of a Chinese art exhibition that compared black people from Africa with the continent’s wild animals. The show, “This is Africa,” has been on display since September 28th, 2019, at the Hubei Provincial Museau and features some 150 photographs by Yu Huiping. A visitor from Nigeria by the name of Edward E. Duke brought the exhibition to the world’s attention. He shared a video and was sure to tag all of the major media outlets in it. Of course, word got out, and the museum owner quickly replied by saying it was the museum that made the decision to juxtapose the two sets of photos not the artists. Apparently, in Chines proverbs, animals are always used for admiration and compliment. Comparisons between people and animals are often positive in China. Interesting! Is this a matter of cultural difference? Was this exhibit truly just a misunderstanding? Well, let’s look at another incident. The CCTV 2018 New Year’s Gala draws massive viewership each year. They can have an estimated 700 million viewers, making it
the world’s most watched television show. There was a skit done that featured a Chinese actress in blackface with huge prosthetic buttocks, clearly portraying an African woman. Tribal dancers and monkeys backdropped her. We all know how taboo blackface is in the Western culture, and many other parts of the world. In China, it is normal for Chinese actors to dress up like foreigners when performing foreign plays. Again, I put to the readers; is this just a cover up for such a heinous act of racism, or is it another example of cultural misunderstanding? Regardless, Africans are outraged. Despite the billions of dollars worth of investments that China has made into subSaharan Africa, there is considerable tension and concern surrounding the misuse and gorging of the continents natural resources, and now, these tensions look like they could spill over into a full-blown race war. Conspiracy theory videos linking Coronavirus symptoms to 5G networks banned! As of April 7th, 2020, YouTube banned all conspiracy theory videos falsely linking coronavirus symptoms to 5G networks. This came after a live-streamed interview with conspiracy theorist David Icke, in which he linked the technology to the pandemic. The interview was watched by about 65,00 people while it was live streaming. According to one source, YouTube only deleted the video after BBC questioned why they had permitted the video to be seen. There seems to be aggressive steps being taken to silence anyone who speaks negatively about 5G. YouTube has spoken out and stated that any content that disputes the existence or transmission of COVID-19, as described by the WHO and local health authorities are in violation of YouTube policies. They have even threatened to terminate certain channels and prevent repeat offenders from earning money. There was a study done by Oxford University’s Reuters Institute that found: politicians, celebrities and other influential figures are responsible for producing a fifth of all misinformation about the coronavirus. Some people who have been called out are: Wiz Khalifa, Keri Hilson, M.I.A, and Amir Khan. Natural News has already been kicked off most social media due to its content. They are the ones who brought to light the fact that 5G has been the reason for the symptoms most people have been feeling, especially in areas where 5G towers have been erected. Scientific America put out a study about millimetre waves that are emitted from 5G towers. Short-term exposure can have an adverse physiological effect in the peripheral nervous system, the immune system and the cardiovascular system. The research suggests that long-term exposure can have adverse effects on humans. A U.S. Senator went, as far to state, “Since 5G is a new technology there is no research on health effects, so we are flying blind.” Flying blind! Well that doesn’t sound very good does it? Philanthropic power and development; The Bill Gates Drama The Gates foundation is known to be one of the single largest donors to the World
Health Organization. This of course does give the organization considerable leverage in shaping health policy priorities. This is why when WHO called a complete shutdown and quarantine of the entire nation, many were questioning who was really responsible for that decision. After all, it is a fact that Bill Gates practically controls policy at the World Health Organization. You see; money gives someone that power. Really and truly, depending on what mood Bill Gates is in, it can shift the terrain of global health. That is a scary thought. A man having that much power! Rich philanthropists and their foundations have influence on decision-making and seem to be setting the global health and agricultural agenda in developing countries. A study done by Jens Martens and Karolin Seitz claimed that many foundations enable rich countries and their corporations to achieve their own ends in developing countries. The Gates Foundation has employed numerous former Big Pharma figures, and this has led to accusations of industry bias. I know most of us think that we are rational enough to be exposed to the press, but unfortunately we are not. We think that we can compensate with the strength of our inner contemplation. Wrong again. You have to remain cognizant of the effect that certain news has on you. Some news stories are specifically engineered to interrupt you. They are as bad as COVID-19, stealing your attention for their own purpose. It is important to learn how to filter your information intake, and if you are interested in a story, take the time to research it thoroughly. Get all sides of a story, and then make a conscious decision to have an emotion about it. References Oxford University’s Reuters Institute https://reutersinstitute.politics.ox.ac.uk/ types-sources-and-claims-covid-19-misinformation) Philanthropic Power and Development (Jens Martens and Karolin Seitz) https://www.globalpolicy.org/images/ pdfs/GPFEurope/Philanthropic_Power_online.pdf Scientific America https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/ observations/we-have-no-reason-tobelieve-5g-is-safe/?fbclid=IwAR3SqdOS2 jZp6Kv_8diNdTX_EYn_EUN4zvDYFWUvf5xUvUzQgBghLqfNnc 2018 Chinese New Years Gala https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=d8ehjt-ZH_o Museum Exhibit https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=4ldrKmjNNlE
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Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
Ontario Health Coalition shines light on the most exploited workforce in our society MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
Does the Ford Government’s Action Plan reflect his rhetoric when it comes to shielding residents and staff in Long-Term Care from COVID-19?? Depending on who is asked, the answer is yes or no. The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper looked at both the government documents and the Ontario Health Coalition point of view so that you can be the judge. It is no secret that in Ontario some long-term care facilities have taken a serious and deadly licking from this monster COVID-19, and as a result of this situation families and friends of both patients and caregivers as well as the entire province are asking questions. “We are increasingly frustrated
with the disconnect between the statements of the Premier and what is actually being put into the regulations, directives, and guidance issued by his own government,” said Natalie Mehra, Executive Director of Ontario Health Coalition. Management of a single case in staff Long-term care homes must immediately implement outbreak control measures for a suspect outbreak. Even if the staff exposure was to a specific area of the long-term care home, consideration must be given to applying outbreak control measures to the entire home. Staff members who has tested positive and symptomatic cannot attend work. Staff who have tested positive, have symptom resolution, and are deemed critical may return to work under work isolation. What is required Staff who test positive cannot be required to work in the homes, they should be under quarantine with support according to the rules, said Ontario Health Coalition, and the opposite is happening. OHC makes a list of cases against the Ford government that states the government preaches one thing when it comes
to protecting patients, and workers of longterm care, and continues to practice another time and time again. Mehra told Toronto Caribbean Newspaper about the death of a Personal Support Worker who recently died from COVID-19. Mehra said, “She, the PSW, had worked for 31-years in the profession, sadly it was revealed by the dead woman’s husband that in the early stages of this outbreak she was denied PPE (personal protective equipment). When Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. David Williams said personal support workers at long-term facilities do not need to wear protective equipment unless their location is the site of an outbreak, that was unbelievable.” (https://twitter.com/CBCToronto/ status/1245123916571521024) “It is a humanitarian crisis what’s happening in the long-term care homes. It’s appalling and yet still there is no plan to test everybody not even in homes where there are outbreaks, and we are receiving letters from family members who are screaming.” “Some,” she said, “are sending letters to their MPP saying, my mother is in a long-term home, the virus is spreading through the home, she can’t even get test-
ed, what is going on.” According to Mehra, the Ontario government widened the array of symptoms one needs to have in order to get tested. If a resident has COVID-19, then the resident in the adjacent bed and the ones in the next room can get tested. The only thing is that it is left up to local decision, it is not a requirement, and there is no requirement that everybody in the home gets tested. “What we are saying,” Mehra explained, “is simple. All the volunteers, all the third party contracted staff, anyone going into or living in the homes needs to be tested. This is one of the key ways to stop the spread. In a long-term care home, there is no isolation. Simply putting a curtain around the bed of someone who is coughing or sick with COVID-19 is not isolating him or her from the other people. The workers who have been working in impossible conditions in these long-term homes have been terribly exploited, and I believe this treatment is racist, and oppressive. I think that the belief is shared widely. This workforce is among the most exploited workforce in our society.”
Public apology by Peel Board; A new season of renewed hope, pursuit of equity and inclusion PAUL JUNOR
paul@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
The decision by the Peel District School Board (PDSB) to issue a public apology was a welcome move to heal the broken trust and relationship with the black community. The board released a statement on April 16th, 2020, which came after the Wednesday, April 15th, 2020 board meeting. “The Board and Trustees offer our sincere apologies to students, staff, families and the school community at large for other decisions we have made that have negatively impacted students learning and well -being, as well as staff wellness.” This apology was the first public
acknowledgement by PDSB of the damage that has been done to the black community in Peel. The board which has a total of 153,000 students covers Brampton, Mississauga and Caledon and represents different racial ethnicities and backgrounds. It was in November 2019 that the ministry review was launched after the racist remark by Brampton trustee Will David who called McCrimmon Middle School,”McCrimmal”. Even though the integrity commissioner exonerated him because he made the statement privately, the black community did not take this lightly. Many were incensed by this disparaging remark and expressed it vocally at Board meetings. In the released statement, the PDSB takes responsibility for the harm that was done. It notes, “Over the past several months, during our execution of duties and stated roles as trustees of the PDSB, debates, discussions and conversations have taken place, and decisions made which have caused hurt and harm for members of the black community, both those who live in
Peel and others who live outside of Peel. This includes the mishandling of circumstances around the disparaging comment made by a trustee about McCrimmon Middle School. For this, the Board is truly sorry.” In addition, to this apology, the Board has accepted the findings of antiblack racism as an aspect of systemic racism. “Institutional racism and racism that is embedded in the organizational culture. It can be embedded in written policies, procedures, and practices that create barriers to the hiring, advancement and full inclusion of radicalized employees in the workplace. It acknowledges that systemic racism exists. We must do all we can to eliminate the marginalization experienced of black students and staff in Peel schools. As Trustees, we are required to listen and do a better job addressing incidents of anti-black racism and other instances of discrimination” (Voices of Ontario Black Educators, 2015). The Board and Trustees have committed to working against all issues of racism so that such incidents do not happen
again. In the light of what is required to effect fundamental and structural changes they have indicated that they are willing to follow through by engaging in anti-racist and anti-Bush training. They note that, “As Trustees, we are committed to undergoing anti-Bush awareness training to understand and examine our individual bias. We look forward to working together with: the director, senior administration, staff, students families and our community to strengthen our commitment to addressing anti-black racism and all forms of discrimination. Our Board remains committed to championing equity as inclusion and to creating and maintaining spaces, where all students, staff, families and community members feel, safe, respected, welcome and included.” The apology to the black community is a positive step in the right direction. The eyes of all stakeholders will be on the Board to ensure that they are held accountable and responsible for their actions. We enter a new season of renewed hope, pursuit of equity and inclusion and open, free and deep building.
Wednesday, April 29, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News
NEWS
PAGE 11
Clearing up some of the misinformation surrounding COVID-19 JONELL PANTLITZ jonell@carib101.com
TC JR. REPORTER
As the spread of the Coronavirus Pandemic continues, so does the rumors, myths and misinformation. This is understandable. It’s natural that people are hungry for information. This thirst for information is what allows the internet to spread misinformation and deceive the public. So, let’s get into some of the totally inaccurate myths busted by science about our current pandemic. Masks can protect you from the Coronavirus Essentially, the most common misconception is that regular surgical masks can protect you from contracting the coronavirus. This myth is believed by most of the public; even my mother was trying to convince me to wear a mask when I was going to the grocery store.
However, the fact remains that regular surgical masks, will not protect anyone. According to, Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist at Vanderbilt University in Tennessee, he told Live Science, a more specialized mask, known as an N95 respirator, can protect against the new coronavirus, also called SARS-CoV-2. The University of Maryland also reported that surgical masks may help prevent infected people from making others sick with the coronaviruses. In laboratory experiments, the masks significantly reduced the amounts of various airborne viruses coming from infected patients. Even if someone were to sneeze on you a mask may protect some parts of your face, but the virus can also enter through your eyes and from touching your face. Heat can kill the Coronavirus This is a fact, but it is often misconstrued by the public. Heat can indeed kill the virus but only extreme heat. Shannon Sovndal, MD, the EMS medical director in Boulder, Colorado, explained, “Heat in your everyday normal life won’t kill coronavirus.” Hospitals and medical facilities use that kind of heat in the hundreds of degrees fahrenheit to clean their medical in-
struments to disinfect and kill viruses, says Dr. Sovndal. But things, like taking a hot shower or bath, sipping hot tea, or just being in warm weather, won’t kill COVID-19. This statement is also proven false because many hot climates (Caribbean islands/countries, Australia) have reported cases of the coronavirus. Spraying alcohol or chlorine on your body will kill the new coronavirus According to the World Health Organization (WHO), spraying alcohol or chlorine all over your body will not kill viruses that have already entered your body. Spraying such substances can be harmful to clothes or mucous membranes (i.e., eyes, mouth). Alcohol, chlorine and other disinfectants can be used to clean surfaces but beware some of these products are flammable. Packages from countries where Coronavirus cases are confirmed is not safe According to the (WHO), research has found that coronaviruses don’t survive long on objects such as letters and packages. From what was established from similar coronaviruses such as MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV, experts think this new coronavirus likely
survives poorly on surfaces. According to a study published on February 6th in The Journal of Hospital Infection, reported that coronaviruses can stay on surfaces such as metal, glass or plastic for as long as nine days. The surfaces present in packaging are not ideal for the virus to survive. It needs a combination of specific environmental conditions such as temperature, lack of UV exposure and humidity, a combination that won’t be possible in shipping packages. Holding your breath without coughing means you do not have coronavirus According to (WHO) the most common symptoms of COVID-19 are dry cough, tiredness and fever. Some people may develop more severe forms of the disease, such as pneumonia. The best way to confirm if you have the virus-producing COVID-19 disease is with a laboratory test. You cannot confirm it with this breathing exercise, which can even be dangerous. Misinformation will not go away. Our freedom of speech dictates that. All we can do as intelligent content consumers is research everything and make it our duty to ingest balanced information.
Rogers, Apple and Ontario School Boards help families during COVID-19 Crisis PAUL JUNOR
paul@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
The closure of all schools in Ontario has seen over two million students having to access online lessons to continue their learning. Two of the largest school boards in Ontario: the Peel District School Board (PDSB) and the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) have expressed concerns about the lack of accessibility that some students may have to internet. The reality of the digital divide has been well documented which according to Oxford dictionary is, “The gulf between those who have ready access to computers and those who do not.” The Ontario government announced on Friday, April 17th, 2020 that it had bought 21,000 iPads that would be
delivered to Ontario school boards, which would then be distributed to students of low-income families. Currently, there are 76 public school boards in Ontario, which includes: 38 public secular boards (34 catholic, 4 French and 38 public separate boards) that serve over two million students. One wonders if 21,000 iPads will be sufficient for the families who need them. According to the Minister of Education, Stephen Leece in the news release, “These students will be able to access resources through our learn at home portal. For the parents, I hope this gives you some piece of mind, knowing that your children will have access to the tools they need to continue learning during this difficult period.” The government has left it up to the school board to determine which students are eligible for iPads. The Minister of Education recently published, “Ontario Establishes Key Partnership to Make Home Learning Accessible.” He indicated that there has been a partnership between Rogers and Apple to provide vital services to families who receive these iPads. Rogers is Canada’s largest provider of wireless communication services, and is one of the leading providers of high-speed Internet
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services to consumers and business. According to Dean Prevost, President of Roger’s for Business, “For some of the most vulnerable members of our society, accessing online learning tools at home is an added burden at a time when there is already a lot of stress. Rogers is pleased to be working alongside the Ontario government and school boards across the province to close the digital divide for some of our most vulnerable people and their families.” Rogers will provide free wireless data until the end of June. Apple will ensure that videos apps and books to assist teachers are available. In addition, there will be on-going support in French and English that teachers, parents and students can access along with resources to support learning and working at home. Kids who get these iPads will be able to engage in digital learning 24/7. The TDSB, which is the largest school board in Ontario with 247,000 students, has started giving out 50,000 devices from early April and will continue to early May. According to John Malloy, director of the TDSB, “We made the decision to have the devices delivered directly to the homes of our students to ensure that fami-
lies can remain safely at home. This option will take more time, but the safety of our communities is our top priority.” The York Region District School Board (YRDSB) which has 128,000 students and the PDSB which has 153,000 students will be giving out 20,000 devices. Parents have the option of either picking them up at school abiding by safety health practices or getting them delivered at home. The Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) which has 91,000 students bought 6,000 Chrome books and Internet-enabled iPads that they will be delivering to the homes of 4,500 students. In addition to the iPads, the Ontario government has provided financial support to parents to help them cover the cost of educational materials and childcare closure as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. Parents are eligible to receive a one-time per child payment of $200 for children aged 0-12 and $250 for children with special needs aged 0-21. The only thing that parents/ guardians have to do is submit one application per child and payment will be provided through direct deposit. If cheques are requested it may take several months from the date of application.
PAGE 12
NEWS
Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
WorldRemit; Internationally moving money into the future MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
WorldRemit is a money transfer powerhouse that branches worldwide and employs people between Ottawa and Toronto. The company has been around for a decade now and despite the COVID-19 jailhouse atmosphere, it is up and running online in a big way. Corey Myckan is the Country Director for WorldRemit in Canada and is based in Toronto. Myckan, who has a wealth of experience under his belt, has worked for many financial institutions
from Mastercard to American Express and more. Toronto Caribbean Newspaper spoke with Myckan about the inner workings of this company in these globally crucial economic times. Myckan was asked how the COVID-19 incarceration has affected his line of business? To which he answered, “None of my employees including myself are working from an office today, I am working from home as well and we have not had to let go of anyone or reduce their hours.” “We are seeing,” he said, “less cash pickup in Jamaica and more bank to bank transactions because of the reduced location hours and closures. In our business, there is an increase in money transfer into client’s bank accounts because they don’t have to leave their homes for this. It’s all from an app which over 4,000,000 use globally or online at our website.” Myckan said his company is en-
couraging clients to use what is known as mobile money, which is a big thing in countries like Africa. This can help to promote social distancing in these times. He told Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, “We are a bit of a pioneer in the move from offline to digital transfers. COVID-19 has put us and everyone else in a situation where it is just not convenient to send money as easy as it was in the offline world. That has led to an increase in our sign-ups, activation and our transactions from Canada to the rest of the world.” The Country’s Director of World Remit in Canada told Toronto Caribbean Newspaper that in five-years-time he envisions his company moving to complete digital operation, “The longer that social distancing happens,” he said, “the more I think people will move to a digital solution, whether it be ours, or somebody’s else’s.” When asked about the concerns
some folks might have about the safety of online money transactions, Myckan answered, “I think from our point of view, we are a very regulated industry and personal privacy is of the utmost importance to us in this business and we take this very seriously.” “We have good rates that depends on which corridor of the world you are sending money to. We also have a bonus promotion for newcomers to WorldRemit called (Three Free) which means that your first three transactions are free,” Toronto Caribbean Newspaper also spoke briefly with Claudia Formiga, Public Relations Manager for America’s WorldRemit who ensured us that the company’s main objective is to be there for their client’s needs, especially in these tough times. More information on this company can be found at WorldRemit.com (https://www.worldremit.com/)
Hiring temporary foreign workers for a permanent labour demand, a look at Canada’s ‘disposable’ workforce JANIECE CAMPBELL janiece@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
“Due to a lot of immigration restrictions, agricultural workers face a lot of injustices on the farms. This current crisis only accentuates it.” – Chris Ramsaroop There’s a certain encouraging message broadcasted nearly every day. From the Prime Minister down to the mayors, they never fail to remind us one thing; as Canadians, “we’re all in this fight together.” But, are we really? That message seems a bit faulty, especially when looking at migrant labourers, the subjects of injustice in our country for over half a century. Justicia for Migrant Workers (J4MW) is a volunteer advocacy group for migrant workers. They help to bring awareness to the community and the exploitive conditions that the indentured labourers work under. “Our role is to be the voice for the workers,” says Chris
Ramsaroop, an organizer for J4MW. “We want to develop the channels and the instruments to have an ongoing relationship with migrant workers.” For nearly 20 years, the group has been addressing the systematic inequalities that these workers face, some of which have heightened amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Foreign workers are employed typically for up to 8 months through the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) to assist with significant labour shortages. Originating through a government agreeance between Canada and Jamaica in 1966, the program still progresses today with workers from a plethora of Caribbean countries and Mexico. This program was essential for labour migration in Canada and accounts for more than 60% of foreign workers entering the country annually. When we think about agricultural labour, I’d assume that most imagine workers tending to vast crops of fruits and vegetables that we’d later see in our local grocery stores. Most don’t necessarily consider the conditions that these labourers work under are very different than most jobs, and in many cases, almost reminiscent to slavery. “They are often denied over-time pay. They’re denied work hours. Every
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minute is regimented on what they can and cannot accomplish. They’re dependent on their employer for transportation. Basic health and safety protection equipment is often excluded, and there’s always a threat of being sent home.” As the demand for food increases as a result of the pandemic, the Government of Canada is continuing to allow the entry of more temporary foreign workers and is providing $50 million towards the industry in support. The money allocated is to help cover the costs of self-isolation requirements, though many activists are concerned that these safety measures won’t hold up on farms that already have crowded housing conditions. “The federal government of Canada, the provincial government of Ontario and the Agricultural Lobby have a focus on the idea of protecting the country’s food supply chain and ensuring the security of food for its own people. [J4MW] is focussed on uncovering how Canada is promoting a food system where the people who put food on our table are going hungry.” In recent weeks, a community in Leamington, ON shamed migrant workers online for their lack of applying social distancing standards. This prompted the Ontario Provincial Police to upload a
YouTube video in an attempt to educate workers of their responsibility to socially distance in public. Failure to follow the rules will result in tickets or fines. “The irony is that people are so enraged about the absence of social distancing in the community, but they don’t have those same reservations for the conditions these workers are living in,” says Ramsaroop. The concerns raised by J4MW with this are that police and the government are not being held accountable for these actions. “Actions by OPP and other police agencies, such as ticketing and fining, will have significant economic implications for a population that lives and works below the poverty line. In addition, ticketing migrants may also have dire consequences on their immigration status and the ability of workers to return to Canada to work in the future,” says J4MW. On your next trip to the grocery store, before you pick up those crisp apples, remember the temporary migrant workers who are being used for a permanent labour demand. “We want to encourage people to put pressure on our government. They need to address the absence of fairness and dignity that these workers face,” says Ramsaroop.
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Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
Crisis in Ontario long-term care homes PAUL JUNOR
paul@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
As the pandemic continues, it has taken a terrible toll on some of the most vulnerable people in our society. The death of 33 seniors in the Eatonville Nursing home in Etobicoke, 16 at the Sienna Altamount Care Community in Scarborough, 29 at Pinecrest Nursing Home, 23 at Almont Country Haven, 23 at Anson Place, as well as personal support worker (Christine Mandrgaran) on Thursday, April 17th, highlights the magnitude of the crisis. In the face of on-going criticism and reaction to concerns that have been expressed, the Ontario government has responded. They have issued two emergency orders (March 24th, 2020 and March 28th, 2020) as well as a new one on April 15th to deal with this looming health crisis. Concerns about the quality of care at long-term care homes have been vocalized for many years. Vicki McKenna, President of the Ontario Nurses Association (ONA) in a report by Newzdu.ca on April 4th, 2020 stated, “Working conditions in some long-term care homes are abysmal. In some homes, there is limited personal protective equipment (PPE) for health-care workers, and many homes are reporting that they are running out of much-needed supplies. It’s horrifying. In addition, the government must ensure directives re-
garding PPE are clear, proactive and updated to also apply to nurses in long-term care homes.” ONA represents more than 68,000 registered nurses and health-care professionals as well as 18,000 nursing students. These concerns are magnified even further in the light of the social distancing and physical spacing requirements that are in place. There are many issues that have been fomenting for years. The precarious nature of many nursing jobs, lack of fulltime status with adequate benefits, and having to work in multiple facilities to gain a living wage are some of the challenges. According to Vicki, “It is very common for nurses and health-care professionals to work in multiple long-term care homes. This piece-meal approach with casual and part-time workers coming in and out of various homes is very unsafe in this pandemic. Workers in long-term care must have the right to work in one home with full-time hours and work with the same residents. This approach is also best for our residents and decreases the impact of any potential spread of COVID-19.” As a result of the ONA’s concerns 15,000 people sent their support through targeted email (www.ona.org/ppe) calling on the government to guarantee that health-care workers have access to personal PPEs. In a news release from the Office of the Premier titled, “Ontario Ramping Up Protection for Long-Term Care Residents” it outlined the COVID-19 Action Plan. It adds vital new measures to prevent further outbreaks focusing on three specific areas: 1. Aggressive testing, screening and surveillance 2. Managing outbreaks and spread of the
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April 17th, Ontario Takes Further Action to Protect Vulnerable People from COVID-19). According to Premier Ford, “In order to better protect our seniors people with various abilities, the homeless population, and our frontline workers, the government is adopting emergency measures to provide flexibility and a variety of staffing arrangements to help stop the spread of this terrible virus.” These measures include: 1. Restricting retirement home employees from working in more than one facility 2. Ensuring that the Local Health Integration Network assigns frontline workers where they are most needed 3. Providing municipalities and District Social Service Administrative Boards with the power to move staff into local areas where they are needed. The Ontario government has made $243 million in COVID-19 emergency funds available to ensure that long-term care homes are able to obtain additional staff supplies and the capacity needed. It has given longterm care homes until April 22nd to ensure compliance. These temporary measures are initiatives to address the urgency of the current pandemic. One wonder is, what will happen after the pandemic is over? There are important structural changes that have to be made to ensure that these workers receive: adequate wages, excellent working conditions, and proper benefits. This crisis is a wakeup call to address and deal with these systematic and ingrained issues that have been ignored for too long.
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Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
Ontario makes regulatory changes to ease auto insurance worries JANIECE CAMPBELL janiece@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
Good news for Ontario drivers! The Ontario government is amending a regulation under the Insurance Act which allows auto insurers to issue premium rebates to policyholders. According to the Ministry of Finance, the amendment was to further “help ease the financial pressure on working people and families during this public health crisis.” Through this amendment, insurance companies are now able to offer premium rebates to consumers for up to 12 months after the emergency has ended. Ontario is the first jurisdiction in Canada to remove existing restrictions on rebating so auto insurers can provide additional consumer relief. “Insurance companies indicated that the regulation preventing rebates
was a barrier to providing relief to their customers,” said Rod Phillips, the province’s Minister of Finance. “That barrier has now been removed so auto insurance companies can step up and do the right thing for the people and families of Ontario.” This announcement came just days after Phillips met with several CEOs of the major insurance companies, urging them to give drivers a break on premium payments that reflect the devastating impact of the pandemic. “We are in an unprecedented time and people are experiencing extraordinary financial pressures,” said Rod Phillips. “My message to insurance companies has been clear: they should provide relief that reflects the financial hardships their dedicated customers are facing due to the COVID-19 outbreak.” The province is not dictating a specific rebate percentage for companies to offer, though Phillips says it to needs to be “commensurate with the scale of duress that Ontario families are under.” The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) reinforced the idea of the regulation and also projected that with these
rebates, insurers nation-wide can help to save financially burdened customers a whopping amount of money. “We recognize that many drivers are no longer commuting or using their vehicle as regularly and their premiums should reflect the reduced risk. IBC expects this offer could initially result in $600 million in savings to consumers across Canada – more than half of that in Ontario alone,” said Steve Kee, IBC’s Director of External Communications. Along with adjusting premiums for drivers, IBC member companies have committed to several other measures to continue helping Canadians such as exploring flexible payment options and waiving non-sufficient fund fees. “These measures will continue for the next 90 days. Insurance customers whose driving habits have changed significantly or who are facing financial hardship as a result of the pandemic should contact their insurance representative,” noted Kee. Several large insurers have already started to offer rebates, in some cases, even up to 75%. Allstate Canada was among the
first insurance providers to begin offering discounts due to the circumstances of the virus. With the expectation of cumulative payments totalling to $30 million, active clients who have paid their April premium will receive a 25% refund of their monthly paid statement. Abdool Gafoor is a business development agent for Allstate who continues to work from home. “No company planned for this. No one was prepared,” he said. “But every company should be preparing for the unknown. If this situation prolongs, they should continue to ease the burden of people. We, as a society will have to partner together to pull through this. “ Many other companies are offering to defer payments for customers in financial difficulty and it’s encouraged that all drivers check their insurance companies in the case of any disruption to individual driving habits. “All of us will remember how companies treat us during these unprecedented times. I often remind business leaders that their customers from the past five years are likely to be their customers for the next five years,” said Phillips.
Lack of devices, connectivity and support for parents and students is increasingly alarming DAVE RANKIN dave@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
The Urban Alliance on Race Relations recently held an online forum to discuss the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the education of black students. With 45 years of addressing challenges that have affected the residents within the GTA, this was a great place to start for this organization that has continually invested in the development of the community through a number of avenues. The online forum was spearheaded by UARR President, Nigel Barriffe and his panelists: Nana Yanful (Staff Lawyer, Black Legal Action Centre), Alana Lowe, (Coordinator, Black Youth Collaborative),
and Warren Salmon, (President, Ontario Alliance of Black School Educators). They all took the time to lend their expertise in their area and to express some of their concerns with the present educational situation. Alana Lowe was the first of the panelists to speak. She began by highlighting some of the items brought to her attention through: collaborative efforts, 20-some youth organizations, and her work within the Toronto District School Board. One of the first things that stuck out was the fact that panic immediately set in as soon as schools closed. There were a number of students who were worried that they won’t be able to finish the school year and how would this affect their future. Another major item mentioned was the concern of students who are in crisis and no longer have the face-to-face support they have received while they were in school. Hearing stories of students who have had flashbacks of traumatic experiences, being stifled from having to
stay indoors with little to no human connection, to even witnessing their parents’ frustrations of having to be on the frontlines and encountering racism within the workforce. It’s a tall order for this generation of students who now have to handle more than just finishing their math homework on time. Nana Yanful, a lawyer from the Black Legal Action Centre spoke next on some of the issues that have been brought to her attention. She mentioned that most of the calls that were fielded were around housing and education. In the realm of education, Nana discussed that there are many students who are still missing out on the resources from their schools. Some of those families do not have a computer or adequate internet connection, and other families who have multiple children in the home require more than one learning device. She also spoke at length on her concern for students in shelters, and any school suspensions prior to COVID-19. President of the Ontario Alliance of Black School Educators, Warren Salmon
spoke last. He also addressed some of the concerns around technology and students not having enough schoolwork to complete. Warren continued to state that his organization was working on behalf of some the parents to help facilitate a reliable bridge between families and teachers. The concept of e-learning was a major factor during the stalemate between teachers and the Ontario government. When speaking to some of my older students, they were very apprehensive around this concept as well and rightfully so. Now that teachers and students have been thrown into this situation, the loopholes discovered from the lack of devices/ connectivity and support for parents/students is increasingly alarming. However, through every challenge, there is a solution. Discussions like the one the Urban Alliance of Race Relation has held this past week, is a step in the right direction in creating solutions our community can stand behind.
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Wednesday, April 29, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News
PAGE 17
Race-based data vital in fight against COVID-19 PAUL JUNOR
paul@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
In Ontario, there have been 249 deaths in long-term care homes as of Friday, April 19th, 2020 according to the epidemiological summary by Public Health Ontario (PHO). The fact that it is the sector of the population that are most vulnerable: poor, elderly, homeless and marginalized has raised alarms. As we look at the United States and see the disproportionately high per cent of blacks and Latinos infected and affected, many health experts have raised concerns about the racial distribution in Ontario. The collection of race-based data would be helpful in guiding public health policy. On April 16th, 2020, Andrea Horwath (Leader of the Official Opposition NDP) served notice to the Ford government. “Black, Indigenous, and racialized Ontarians were already suffering from poorer health outcomes and barriers to access before the province was thrust into
a pandemic. Now we’re seeing troubling signs in other places that these inequities - and the worst health outcomes that come with them - are unchecked with the spread of COVID-19.” She believes that the collection of disaggregated race-based data would lead to a positive health impact for black and racialized Ontarians during this global pandemic crisis. The World Health Organization (WHO, 1998) defines health as “A positive concept emphasizing social and personal resources physical capacities. It is a multidimensional concept with physical, psychological, sociocultural, development and spiritual elements.” According to the Canadian Public Health Association (www.cpha. ca), social determinants of health (SDH) are social and economic factors that influence people’s health. They are apparent in the living and working conditions that people experience every day. They include: • • • • • • • • • • • •
Income and income distribution Education Unemployment and job security Employing and working conditions Early childhood development Food insecurity Housing Social exclusion Social safety network Health services Aboriginal status Gender
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• •
Race Disability
This current crisis has exacerbated the health status of many black, Indigenous, people of colour and racialized communities given the fact that many work in the service sectors with poor living and working conditions, often lacking benefits, precarious employment and lacking a living wage. The press release from Andrea Horwath highlights data that shows the underrepresentation of African-Canadians in medical research, and the prevalence of racial bias and anti-black racism in the kind of medical care that they received. In addition, there is a high percentage of blacks in Ontario who have chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, sickle cell anaemia, and hypertension. These pre-existing conditions would make them more susceptible to COVID-19. Unfortunately, there is no way of knowing the racial compositions from the current cases. Public Health Ontario is a Crown corporation dedicated to protecting and promoting the health of all Ontarians and reducing inequities in health. It links public health practitioners, front -line workers and researchers to the best scientific intelligence and knowledge from around the world. As of Monday, April 20th, 2020, there has been 11,082 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in total, including: 584 deaths
and 5,515 recoveries according to the Ontario Ministry of Health (MOH) and the integrated Public Health Information System (iPHIS). • • •
• •
4,728(42.3%) were males 6,354(56.8%) were females Out of the 584 deaths, 66.3% were over 80, 28.3% between 60-79, 0.9% 40- 59,1% between 20-39, 0% less than 19 249 of these deaths were reported among long-term care homes. Most of the infections result from community transmission (41.7%), exposure (11.2%), travel (17.5%) and 29.6% from close contact of a confirmed case
It is indispensable that the Ontario government include race and socio-demographic data in order to find out where there may be health disparities and inequities in the Ontario medical system. This would go a long way to addressing systematic barriers in health care. According to Andrea Horwath, “It’s time for the province to start collecting data on how black and racialized Ontarians are experiencing COVID-19. Without a complete picture of how we’re doing, we can’t make decisions that ensure the best possible health outcomes for everyone so we can get through this pandemic together.”
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PAGE 18
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Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
Students can look forward to peaceful school environments; Deals with teacher’s unions bring optimism PAUL JUNOR
paul@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
The Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario (ETFO) announced a tentative deal with the Ontario government on Friday, March 30th, 2020 that would suspend strike actions pending the results of a ratification vote. According to ETFO president, Sam Hammond, “This has been a very prolonged and difficult bargaining process. We are very grateful for the support and unwavering solidarity of our members and the public who had continued to stand up for public education,” (as reported in the March 20th, 2020 edition of the Globe and Mail). The members of ETFO will vote on ratification from April 23rd, 2020-April 27th, 2020. ETFO agreed to a 1% salary increase over three years and higher benefits than what the government had proposed. This deal comes on the eve of the announcement on Thursday March 12th,
2020 by the Ontario English Catholics Teachers Association (OECTA) that it had reached a tentative deal (as reported in the March 13th, 2020 edition of the Globe and Mail). OECTA was the first of the teacher’s union to settle after months of labour unrest, marked by rotating strikes and limited withdrawal of services. The union announced that it had suspended all job actions and on April 7th, and 8th, its 45,000 members voted to ratify the deal. OECTA agreed to a 1% salary increase and a 4% increase on benefits. The deal will ensure that average high school class size increase to 23 (up from 22 but still far below 28), which the government had wanted at the beginning of the negotiations. The government conceded to 23 after insisting that they wanted it to be 25. The third union that reached a deal with the government is the Association des Enseignants Franco-Ontarians (AEFO), which represents French language teachers. The union announced that it had reached a tentative deal late Thursday, March 20th, 2020 (according to the March 31st, 2020 edition of The Canadian Press). President, Kemi Sabourin praised members, “The encouragement and solidarity supported our efforts and through-
out a particular laborious round of negotiations.” The union has not released details of the agreement, which remain confidential until its members ratify it. The date for this ratification vote has not been set. According to the March 18th, 2020 edition of the Globe and Mail, The Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation( OSSTF) has indicated that it plans to end all rotating walkouts and work-to-rule because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Ontario government decided to close all school in the province for two weeks after March break to April 5th, 2020, which was later revised to May 4th, 2020 and subsequently to May 14th, 2020. OSSTF resumed negotiations with the government in April. According to Harvey Bischof, president of OSSTF, the union has been concentrating on responding to the COVID-19 pandemic for several weeks and not talks. According to The Canadian Press, Harvey states, “We’ve all been very focused on trying to do the best we can under these current circumstances. For us right now, that’s been a higher priority because we’re in the midst of unprecedented circumstances.” On Monday, April 20th, 2020 there was an announcement from OSSTF that it was able to reach a tentative
agreement with the government and the boards. In a statement, Harvey Bischof observes, “These are extraordinary times. When we began negotiations neatly a year ago no one would have anticipated the situation we face today. While this tentative agreement does not satisfy all of our concerns, we recognize the current environment we are in and the need for students to have stability once this emergency is over.” The Minister of Education, Stephen Leece in a statement on Monday, April 20th, 2020 states, “During this entire process, our aim was to ensure our young people receive the best education we can offer, so they can develop the skills they need to succeed in the classroom and in the future.” OSSTF is the last teachers union to settle with the government. The new contract will be put to a ratification vote in May. The union agreed to the government offer of a 1% salary increase over three years. Details about class size increase had not been released, as the union wanted it to remain at 23:1. If students are able to go back to school before June, there will be no more labour unrest. Parents/guardians, teachers and students can look forward to peaceful school environments.
“You cannot pour from an empty cup.” The Unwanted Visitor SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
“We need to be kind and patient with ourselves. Find adaptive ways to cope. Face up to the reality of what we are dealing with.” Dr Katija Khan (Clinical Psychologist) One thing that we all have that we did not have before is time. As a journalist, and community contributor, it is my responsibility to find constructive content to present to the community so that they can learn and grow through this process. This is how I ended up sitting down to take in, “COVID-19; The Unwanted Visitor,” a podcast series that the team at the Caribbean Tourism Organization has put together to help the global community navigate through this crisis. They launched the series on April 14th, 2020, and the very first episode featured CTO’s Communication Specialist Johnson Johnrose, and Clinical Psychologist Dr Katija Khan.
At the young age of 43, Dr Katija Khan is an accomplished psychologist, with 20 years experience in the mental health field. She is a former Student Guild President and Proud Alumna of the UWI St Augustine and Mona campuses as well as the Naoparima Girls’ High School. She has been working in clinical psychology for 15 years, some of that time spent in Jamaica and England: studying, training and working. While in England, Dr Katija worked more in the field of neuropsychology (a branch of clinical psychology that is under-represented in the Caribbean), as well as in areas of neurodegenerative diseases (like Alzheimer’s disease). In this podcast, Dr Katija touches on issues that connect with how globally; people have dealt with the coronavirus crisis. She helps listeners understand our: stress, boundaries and limits, mental flexibility, substance use, communication, our support and physical exercise needs during this unusual time. One of the first things she pointed out was that this is indeed a traumatic global disaster. “The uncertainty has left us chronically stressed out. Leaving home has become a daily hassle, and we are at heightened levels of stress. There is not even time to adjust to a new normal, because this is an evolving pandemic.”
I encourage readers to take a listen to the podcast. It is about 25 minutes in length but stocked full of useful tidbits that could really help. I took the liberty of pulling out some of the main topics, and I have also attached the link below for your convenience. Let us get into it. Manage our perceptions and notions about working from home Dr Katija reminds us that working from home during a crisis is different than working from home during normal times. “The question should be how do we execute our responsibilities while taking care of our well-being? One way to do this is by maintaining a structure and routine when possible. It gives us a level of control. Make sure that you have a cut off time when work ends, if not, life can get blurred. Some people may feel guilty about stopping work and taking time for self-care.” Stress is subjective “Everyone is experiencing this differently,” Dr Katija explains. “There are going to be different realities depending on your life circumstances. You have to modify the expectations to fit the reality. This will call for some flexibility. Figure out what works best for you in your personal con-
text.” She encourages letting some things go and relax some of the standards. This might mean not doing laundry and watching it pile up until you have time to do it. “We need to be kind and patient with ourselves. Find adaptive ways to cope and face up to the reality of what we are dealing with.” Dr Katija points out that we deal with stress differently, and it is important to understand our own reactions. This understanding is twofold if you are a leader. You must think about how stress is affecting people you work with. A good way to do this is by picking up the phone and calling members of your team. Emails can be impersonal; that personal connection can be very strong and work wonders for not just them, but you as well. Maintaining your psychological health “It is imperative to tweak your routines regularly,” Dr Katija implores the listeners. “Maintain a psychologically healthy workspace where your workers can call you and be honest about what they are dealing with. These are not normal situations. This crisis has upended many things.” To view the podcast series, please visit https://anchor.fm/onecaribbean
Wednesday, April 29, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News
NEWS
PAGE 19
Bridging the gap between Africa and Caribbean cultures The #LazeReggae Invasion Podcast EMBUKANE LIBOSSO embukane@carib101.com
KENYA TC REPORTER
KENYA -- Each and every week, The #LazeReggae crew, hosted by Blak Ice (Bill Libosso), Emperess Rafiiki (Melissa Nyaboke), Vinny Puppa Rankin (Vincent Libosso) and audio engineer Lucky Jakes, present a one hour dancehall reggae show with your favorite, fresh, hardcore dancehall: juggling, exclusive interviews, remixes, dubplates, roots and culture, oldies, foundation, Afrobeats and more. Plus, your dancehall e-news and event highlights. It’s your bombastic plug to everything Dancehall and Reggae from Kenya to the world. The podcast is available on Soundcloud, Mixcloud, itunes, Spotify and all your favourite podcast streaming platforms! What’s Good Studios has always been mirrored in the success of Nairobi’s urban talents. Some of those talents are the #LazeReggae Invasion Podcast team! To understand the journey of the #LazeReggae Invasion Podcast, it is crucial to reflect back! In 2016, as the sun shone above The Good House (Home to What’s
Good Studios) in a serene location in Nairobi, Teddy ‘The Great’ Kilonzi and Moffat Kamau had the vision to start a reggae show. They shared it with the leadership at What’s Good Studio. At the dawn of the New Year, What’s Good Studios went live, and are now the leading digital media platform in East and Central Africa. With a radio arm that is home to young world-class presenters and DJs such as: Vidza, Suraj, DJ Wabba, Kalekye Mumo, DeeSkul, Shiro Le Hero, Hustlajay Maumau, Teddy Kilonzi, Arnold Mutisya, Michael Kalinga, Andrew Wambua among many more, the connection was perfect. “I joined them I think on their third show recording if I can remember clearly,” explains #LazeReggae Invasion host Vinny Puppa Rankin. “The term Laze was actually derived from ‘lazy’ since the online reggae show was meant to air in the afternoon. The vision was to play foundation roots reggae music for a relaxed lazy afternoon mood.” Nominated Best Podcast in this year’s Sondeka Awards, the #LazeReggae Invasion Podcast has with time grown with a mission anchored on bridging the gap between Caribbean and African cultures. With a growing weekly listenership and urban music frequently making up for the playlist, the weekly podcast airing every Sunday from 10:00 am (GMT+3), is the first port of call for anything reggaedancehall, soca and Afrobeats/Afropop.
Through weekly Whatsapp meetings and a show run-down update on Sunday, their playlist is quite crucial, especially to the alternative sound Urban Nairobi scene. Incorporating live event coverage on the podcast, Blak Ice, Emperess Rafiiki and Puppa Rankin play exclusive hits of today all the time becoming the hits of tomorrow for other radio stations in the capital. With the podcast becoming quite popular among artists’ every email submission discussed in playlist meetings are shrouded in mystery because they are the place where new tracks can be made, and new talents discovered. From interviews with: Nigerian Songstress, Omawumi to Major Lazer’s Walshy Fire, event coverage from Chronixx concert in Uganda to Nairobi’s homely festival, Reggae In The Sun, the aim of the podcast remains the same; to keep reinventing the wheel and serve the wide audience from around the world. What’s Good Studios has made sure the production for the podcast is world class. With the COVID-19 lockdown, the podcast crew is hoping to resume recording sooner than later. Equally promising is the revelation that the #LazeReggae Invasion Podcast really is bridging the gap between the Caribbean and Africa! Here are some songs on our playlist this week! Cathy Matete – No Retreat (Kenya) Cathy Matete has been likened to Etana
and this songstress has potential to break the global reggae market! Her 2019 reggae single No Retreat is currently enjoying heavy rotation! Olatunji and Destra – We Are One (Trinidad and Tobago) We are always excited to break out some Soca stars in the Kenyan market since the genre does not get that much airplay here. This song has the most positive energy outlook the world needs right now. T’neeya – Text Me (Cameroon and Ghana) T’neeya is a Cameroonian singer and songwriter based in Ghana. We discovered her on Soundcloud and we feel in love with her music! A pearl on the Afrobeats scene! Buju Banton – Ganja Man With the unwritten holiday lockdown, Buju Banton leads the smoke session on this one! Happy 4/20! Skillibeng – 50 Bag A new addition to the dancehall sound, this Jamaican star on the rise is definitely one to watch! For Inquiries: lazereggae@gmail.com trinitystarfamily@gmail.com +254716659166 (Whatsapp)
Brown offers support to vulnerable Jamaicans as UK’s COVID-19 crisis continues MKUU AMANI
mkuu@carib101.com
UK TC REPORTER
UK -- The impact of COVID-19 on the UK’s Jamaican community was just one of the issues dis-cussed by Dr. Kevin Brown, who was amongst the guests on the Jamaican Diaspora Online Radio Show last Sunday. Speaking to Power106 FM’s radio host Dervan Malcolm via a live link from Nottingham to Kingston, Jamaica, Dr. Brown shared an update from the region that he represents as a member of the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council (GJDC). Dr. Brown is also the Chair of Jamaica Diaspora UK, a voluntary organization that aims to promote and protect the interests of Jamaica and Jamaicans and contribute to Jamaica’s development. He was joined on the show by other members of the GJDC, Nathaniel Peat, Dr. Allan Cunningham and Dr. Karren Dunkley. Nathaniel Peat is the UK South representative on the Council, while Dr. Cunningham and Dr. Dunkley represent the southern and north-east regions of the US, respectively. Regarding his UK North constituency, Dr. Brown offered condolences to those who have lost loved ones due to
the pandemic. Amongst those he spoke of was Bishop Theophilus Augustus McCalla MBE, founder of Nehemiah Housing. In Wolverhampton McCalla House, a retirement scheme for people over the age of 55, which offers self-contained flats specifically designed for older people, is named after him. Rev Bishop McCalla passed away on April 2nd after 67 years of service in the Church of God of Prophecy as a minister, regional overseer, and director within the UK. Dr. Brown paid tribute to the clergyman who had migrated from Jamaica at a young age during the Windrush era and acknowledged that the pandemic has been “impacting the Windrush Generation.” He added, “As most of us have been told, the elderly, especially those above the age of seventy-five, are most vulnerable. So, we have been trying to support Jamaicans in the community as much as we can. Within Jamaica Diaspora UK we have regional coordina-tors in various parts of the country, and through working with local community groups, we have been trying to support members of the community, whether this is through providing meals, or going shopping for them or running errands.” At the time of writing, there have been over 16 thousand deaths in the UK. And in a re-cent Government brief, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Gov-ernment Robert Jenrick admitted that “There does appear to be a disproportionate impact of the vi-
rus on BAME (Black and Minority Ethnic) communities in the UK.” His comments came following a report, the ICNARC report on COVID-19 in critical care completed by the Intensive Care National Audit & Research Centre (ICNARC), which found that 35% of almost 2,000 patients were non-white, nearly triple the 13% proportion in the UK population as a whole. “It’s for that reason,” Jenrick continued during the briefing, “that the Chief Medical Officer commissioned work from Public Health England, to better understand this issue.” The Government has not been alone in voicing its concern about these developments. On social media a number of individuals commented including Labour MP Diane Abbott who said, “Government must start recording all important data about coronavirus victims. And this includes race and ethnicity. Many things to understand. Including why (the) BAME community seems to be hit harder.” News editor Vic Motune of The Voice newspaper asked the Government to clarify “if there’s a timeline for the enquiry and what the scope will be.” Journalist and founder of the youth advocacy and empowerment organization Kids of Colour Roxy Legane said: “The impacts of COVID-19 on people of colour are becoming increasingly clear, and increasingly devastating as every day passes.” As for the community’s response, and in the face of the ongoing develop-
ments Dr. Brown commented, “We are trying to deal with the immediate crisis and support members of the community that might need help, but we’re also looking at what issues we need to focus on once this pandemic has passed.” “We tend to suffer from diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and these are things we need to look at as a community after the coronavirus has passed. Is it our diet? Are mem-bers of the Jamaican diaspora exercising enough? I think we now need to use this crisis to reflect on how we could improve our health outcomes.” The UK remains in lockdown. The Government is instructing that people only go outside for food, health reasons or work where home-working is not possible. It also advises that people maintain social distancing and not meet others, even friends or family. Inevitably, this leaves many people alone, vulnerable and in need of support. A point not lost on Dr. Brown. He said, “The Jamaica High Commission, although they’ve closed the office, are still ac-cepting phone calls from any Jamaican that needs support. You can contact the High Commission, and they’ll try to help. You can also contact the Jamaica Diaspora UK at admin@jamaicandiasporauk.org, and we’ll try to assist you where we can.” You can watch and listen to the full radio show. You can also contact JDUK and JAMIN on twitter.
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NEWS
Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
People before profit; earning the trust of the consumer SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
“It is critical that brands are able to sustain, remain and build their trust during this time. What is most critical that will impact brands in the short and long term is that brands are expected to put people ahead of profits during this pandemic,” Carla Santiago (General Manager, Edelman) Let’s start with a question; how are you as a business or organization putting your people before profit? As I sat down to listen to this podcast, I was curious as to what was going to be said, that I had not heard before about our current pandemic. What I learned is that the same thing can be said in different ways, and depending on your mind-set at the time, you will take the message in differently. I was going to include this with the first article I did on the podcast, “COVID-19; The Unwanted Visitor, a podcast series launched by the Caribbean Tourism Orga-
nization, and hosted by Johnson Johnrose, the Communication Specialist for CTO. Once I heard the two podcasts, I realized that it would not be possible to do that. This short, but highly valuable episode, is a must hear for all industries. Each podcast, Johnson speaks to leading experts about the varied impacts of COVID-19 on the travel industry in the Caribbean. In this episode, he has an informative discussion with Carla Santiago, the General Manager out of the Miami office of Edelman, a global communications firm that partners with businesses and organizations around the world. What the team at Edelman did was conduct 12-market studies on the critical role brands are playing during this pandemic. On March 26th, the team interviewed 12,000 people in: Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, South Africa, South Korea, and the UK. What they found was that brands have power. The curiosity was stemmed after a study was released on the role of the private sector during the pandemic. Below are some key points to consider, and I do recommend that industry leaders take a look at the full document. The link will be provided at the end of the article.
Putting people towards profits. The eyes are on you right now leaders. People are looking at your response to see if they can trust you. You are expected to put people before profit. Research shows that 81% say that they expect to the brand to do right by them; this means ensuring their safety and well-being. They should be finding solutions instead of selling passion or image. They need to be tangible and fast, not evocative and theoretical. Do not disappear. Maintain communication with the world. Do not go dark. This is not the time to disappear and be absent from the world. You have to find strength and collaborate with other organizations to come up with ideas to help the community. Remember, the communication we are having with others at this point should be solving problems. We should not be selling anything. Communicate with compassion, emotion and underpinned with facts. More than ever, people want information. This is also a great time to encourage employees to learn something new. It can be anything: a new language, a new skill, anything that will help to put them ahead, and ready for post-COVID-19. You can do this by sharing resources that support their: emotional, physical, mental well-being.
Keep your brand top of mind. Now is the time to prepare. What precautions have been set in place for the future? You have to think details for the safety and security of the: clients, community, employees, guests, or patients. You should start preparing. Innovate now! Put operational ideas in place. You want the world to see that you are thinking of them. Research has shown that 9 out of 10 countries feel like they will not recover if their brands don’t get involved. The government alone has not earned the trust of people; brands have done a better job. A suggestion that Carla provided was for the tourism industry. “Name a Medical Chief Officer for the destination. Medical professionals are the most trusted voice. Let them be the ones to share information about the safety of travel to your destination.” We can’t predict when active marketing can begin; we just have to pay attention to what is happening. The world is in different phases. The movement of people is in different phases. Our job is to pay attention and avoid being static. To view the podcast series, please visit https://anchor.fm/onecaribbean To view the Edelman Report visit: https:// w w w. e d e l m a n . c o m /r e s e a r c h /c o v i d 19-brand-trust-report
“Your life is not like ours is!” Friendships and what parents need to understand BY MAKAYLA B 11 YEAR OLD - JUNIOR CONTRIBUTOR So, during these times a lot of us are calling our friends and we sit there talking for hours until our parents tell us to get off. Right? Or have you been getting really angry and spouting out your anger while talking to them and hurting them when you do that? COVID-19 has caused people to be really scared and worried, and some people are even really angry and take out their rage on others. Because of COVID-19, many friendships have been stretched thin, while others haven’t changed. Kids my age are using phones to stay connected with each other. For most 11-year-olds, it’s easy because they have
their own phones. So for most kids, calling friends is easy. Just grab your phone, go on whatever app you use to call friends, find their name, and call them. Easy right? What about those who don’t have their own phones? Well, then you are probably borrowing your mom or dad’s phone and talking to your friends until the phone dies, or you use the home phone. The best way to stay in touch with friends is through technology. There are a lot of apps you can use to stay in touch with friends like: WhatsApp, Skype, Google Hangouts, Apple Facetime, Line, Viber, Tango, KakaoTalk, WeChat, Oovoo WhatsApp Messenger, Messenger, Kik, Imo, Hike, Maaii, Paltalk, GroupMe, MessageMe, Cubie, Slack, Google Duo, and Zoom I really like:
Facetime, Skype, and Whatsapp. For many kids, their parents probably don’t understand why they’re on the phone for so long. The reason why they don’t understand is simple; when they were kids if they lived in undeveloped countries, then there were probably only one or two phones in their village, and they would have had to pay a lot of money to use it. For example, let’s say you lived in a village in Guyana and there was one phone in your village, it could cost around twenty dollars for a five-minute call. What about parents who were born in North America? They had phones, but it was not like the phones we have. It was plugged into the wall, and if you wanted to bring it to your room, it would be hard
because the cord was short. So you would have to stretch it as far as it would go. If it didn’t reach your room, then you would have to find a private place within reach of the cord. Imagine that! What parents need to understand is that your life is not like their life was. Sometimes you can’t just walk over to your friend’s house to talk to them, and you have to call them to do so. Sometimes calling them, or playing games like Fortnite, Roblox and Minecraft is the only thing you can do if you can’t go and see them. I would love to hear how other kids are communicating with their friends. Let me know!
The stats are in; Black women choosing to get cosmetic surgery is on the rise SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
I won’t lie! When she told me, she was headed to Columbia to get cosmetic surgery, I was shocked. She was a beautiful woman, who was confident, and showed this confidence in the way that she talked and walked. I was happy that she had chosen to share with me such a major decision and supported her through her journey. It is why when she brought her latest project to me, I had to share this with the community. This story is about a close colleague and friend Cherie Johnson out of the United Kingdom. I first met Cherie at the 2019 Jamaican Diaspora Conference, where she was honoured with the Governor-General’s Achievement Award. We hit it off from the jump, and since then have stayed close.
Plastic surgery. There are assumptions about plastic surgery, especially when it comes to black women. Yes, black don’t crack, but black does sag. It is hard to admit that you are not completely happy with yourself, especially when black women are supposed to be super strong and stocked with confidence. We are taught that no matter the size, or shape of our features, we are still beautiful. This confidence has become part of our evolution as black women. It is built from our need to survive in a society that either ignores us or objectifies us. The stats are in. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reported that cosmetic surgery among black women increased 56% between 2005 and 2013. In 2016, the Plastic Surgery Statistic Report highlighted the fact that black people accounted for 8% of all plastic surgery procedures in the United States. In March 2019, The Gleaner did a story on the growing number of visits to the plastic surgeon’s office that has become routine. Apparently, it is a trend that is becoming more and more evident in Jamaica. Whether you want to twist up your face to it or not, black women get plastic surgery for a variety of reasons. Cherie has
bravely decided to discuss her journey, although it is such a sensitive topic especially for women in the business world. Very few people knew when she was going through her procedures, and she did this on purpose. She wanted to go through the entire experience so that she could speak on it intelligently, and help other women make informed and safe choices. She decided to do this by starting a podcast on Anchor FM called Imperfect or Perfect – So you want Cosmetic Surgery. She intimately discusses her experiences and has opened a private group on Facebook that will allow other black women to share their experiences in a non-judgmental space. Below is a snippet of her podcast. “So, I wanted to share with you my struggles with weight loss after giving birth 17 years go. At my biggest, I was a size 22 in clothes and started and restarted my weight loss journey 100’s of time. Fast forward two years later. I was a size 10, but not looking very good, so I increased my weight to a 12 and I was happy. At least I thought so. No matter how much weight I had lost; no matter how much I went to the gym, there were things that wouldn’t
change, regardless of what I had done. So, I decided to seek assistance from cosmetic surgery. Now this was a very difficult decision. I didn’t want to influence my 17-year-old daughter in any way, or subconsciously make her feel insecure, so I was mindful on how I embarked on this journey, however I knew I had to do this. So, in the end, I had a breast lift with small implants, muscle repair, a tummy tuck, BBl, 360 lipo and hips, yes all done in one go. I’m 8 months post Op and I’m happy to provide support and advice to anyone. I’m not medically trained; this is only me sharing my experience.” There is an increased prevalence, accessibility and evolution of cosmetic surgery in Western society. Why a woman does it is complete subjective, but it is becoming relevant to explore the various internal and external factors that motivate people to undergo cosmetic surgery. Her Podcast, Imperfect or Perfect So you want Cosmetic Surgery can be found on Anchor FM, and you can request to join her Facebook page Imperfect or Perfect- All things Cosmetic Surgery.
FEATURE
Wednesday, April 29, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News
PAGE 19
the poetic word I wish
BY GLORIA O’KOYE
Spice-It-Up! SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
“Best jerk chicken and jerk pork in Scarborough. Was so sad when they closed a year or so ago. Normally have to venture out to Eglinton West to get the real jerk taste when it’s cooked on in the drum pan but these guys are just as good if not better. If you are looking for real jerk in the east end this is the place to go. Real jerk is not supposed to be cooked in a oven!” Dion T. New York, United States “I like this place. If you want a good authentic great tasting Jamaican food then this is the place to go. Portions are good and prices are reasonable.” Edgar (January, 2020) There is something about that savoury marinade, marked by perfectly chosen spices and Scotch Bonnet Peppers. Whether your choice of meat is: chicken, beef, pork, goat, boar, seafood, or vegetables, Jerk is a go to choice when you visit a Caribbean restaurant. When coated in spices and slow-cooked over a fire or grill, the resulting smoke is the key to the flavour that we have all learned to love about our favourite Caribbean dish. Before I introduce our award winning restaurant, and chosen Business Feature, let’s give a little history on the origin of Jerk, and how it has become so popular. It started in the 1700’s when escaped slaves living in Jamaica ended up hiding out in the Blue Mountains. We all know these escaped slaves as the Maroons. Food was in short supply, so they learned how to catch wild boars. They used salt, peppers and spices to preserve the meat, because they had to be mindful
of being recaptured, and hunting would leave them open to that. The spiced meat was wrapped in leaves, and when it came time to cook it, they placed it on hot rocks. Over time, different spices were used, and hence was the evolution of what we now know as Jerk. According to Brittanica.com, Jerk has its origins with Taino, who developed the jerk method and taught it to African slaves. The word jerk stems from the Spanish charqui, meaning dried strips of meat similar to the modern-day jerky. Let’s move the story forward to 2020, in the eye of the Coronavirus storm. I am introduced to Miss Joy, the owner of Spice-it-Up. Her restaurant won the 2005 People’s Choice Award, has won the prize for Best Chicken three years in a row at the Jerk and Jazz Fest, and most recently, Eastview Neighbourhood Community Centre honoured Joy for 20 years of service to the community. She has come a long way, and I had a chance to sit down and speak with Miss Joy about her triumphs, her challenges, and her decision to never give up regardless of her struggles. “I infused what I learned from working with a French Chef and I incorporated it with my Caribbean flavour.” Joy (Founder of Spice it Up)
When Joy came to Canada, her main objective was to help her family back home. Her first job was as nanny. She didn’t like that. Then she got work at a factory. She really didn’t like that. One day she picked up a paper and saw a job opening for a cook at a restaurant called Benwick’s. She was nervous going in to the interview, because she had never cooked at that type of level before. “I interviewed and the owner took me right on the spot. My first day was hectic,” Joy chuckled. “I made a lot of mistakes, but he did not give up on me. Within six weeks, the head chef at the time went on vacation, and by the time he came back, I had replaced him as head chef.” Joy was not happy that she had taken someone’s job, especially because the head chef had taught her everything that she knew. “He used to bring books from George Brown College for me to
read and learn how to cook different things. He was a great French chef. We are still very good friends to this day.” Joy decided to leave the restaurant business, and in 1986, she went into child care. She opened up her own day care (Joy’s Daycare), and she would do personal support work at night, and run the daycare during the day. This went on for 15 years, but there was a pull to go back to the food industry. “I always wanted to open a restaurant, so I did. I got myself a nice little spot by Cederbrae Mall in 2000 (Jammie’s), and worked it by myself. It was very profitable.” The community loved Jammie’s so much that they began to ask for more. They wanted a place that they could dine in, and not just pick up. Like that, Spice-itUp was born. Joy ran Spice-it-Up for a few years, and decided that she needed to step back from it for awhile. She made a move to Ottawa to work there, and did not like it. When she was in Ottawa, people were asking her to come back to Toronto. She decided that if she were going to move back, she would have to move back and follow up on her passion. “I was introduced to our current location at 4352 Kingston Rd, in Scarborough, and at first, I didn’t think that it was going to be a good spot. After a month or so it started to grow, so I knew I had made the right decisions.” “What makes working in this industry difficult Joy?” I was curious as to why she kept leaving and coming back. “Working with my own people has been the toughest thing. I might expect too much from them. Sometimes people cannot think out the box. It frustrates me. I have wanted to walk away a few times, and I have, but I realized that cooking was my passion. I had a gift. Someone could come in and not see anything they want. I can go into the kitchen and whip something up and they would love it. I infuse what I learned from the French chef and incorporate it with my Caribbean flavour.” Joy has a strong spirit, and through the up and downs, she refuses to give up. “Spice-it-Up has a lot of potential. I am looking for someone to come in and share my passion. I will not sell it. This place is my baby.”
In a world Where imagination can coexist with reality Breaking rules Living in no fear Because we’re in charge of What we want to change From the vines of insecurities I wish that poverty were a nightmare Where we can wake up Or change course By the snap of our fingers I wish that peace would be at our command Breaking through chokeholds Of power and greed With words like Enough of this insolence I wish We can all hold space for conversations No matter the difference of opinions Silencing one Doesn’t solve anything Just oppressed Becoming oppressors When roles switch I wish There’ll be places of no judgement No visible judge-
ments No hidden judgements No passive aggressive judgements Just a judgement free zone For the sake of unique walks No one should be put down For how their paths reaches in What their future has in store I wish For the inhabitants of this planet Move in unity Like fire ants facing floods They form a raft Surfing on the steady or wild stream I wish for mutualism For all living things Respecting and fulfilling each other wishes I wish A wish Can be more than unanswered cries That whoever or whatever out there In the vast unknown, Will answer Other than silent listening I wish I wish I wish there more to this Than just empty blissful wishing
PAGE 22
FEATURE
Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
KEIRAN KHAN PRODUCTIONS
The definition of dreams don’t work unless you do
This Classic Man was recently hired as Cardi B’s official world tour videographer, but his success didn’t come overnight. Kieran Khan, the youngest of three, was born in Guyana and raised in Trinidad and Tabago. In 2005, he moved to Canada, but went back to Trinidad later on. He owned a night club on the island on the avenue and saw firsthand how full coverage of events including videos and social media promotion was almost non-existent. One company that he hired regularly for his events in the club is called Lime.tt, founded by Justin Gosein. Unfortunately, in 2012 he had to close down the club, and although he didn’t know it yet, this was the start of his journey in content creation. “Trinidad had a curfew because of the crime rate that had developed, I believe it was in 2012, and then we had to close down the night club, so I came back home to Canada,” said Khan. “During that time, I went back to my 9-5 job which was doing collections for a company.” Since Khan knew the business of event coverage, he noticed that it was also lacking in Caribbean events and parties in Toronto, he decided to call Gosein. “I called him up and said, ‘hey there seems to be this gap in terms of professional media coverage for the Caribbean community, you guys should really try to launch an office over here,’ “said Khan. “And he said, ‘well why don’t you do that over there.’” Khan become an equal partner plus managed that side of the business himself, but he had absolutely no experience in photography and videography when he started. “I never shot video, I never shot photos before, I’ve never done any of it, but I had a few friends in the industry. We couldn’t afford to pay staff, so we started on our own,” Then, Khan established himself in the Caribbean community by making a remarkable business decision. “We provided free content for one year in Toronto. We established relationships and trading and gained experience. The year after is when we started monetizing Lime.tt. So, that’s where
the passion came from in terms of getting exposure,” said Khan. “Not everything needs to be compensated with money. We need to collaborate and build each other, and that’s how we’ll survive.” He stuck to videography as he felt that was his stronger skill, and started charging clients for 15 second videos, since Instagram only allowed that length at the time. “So, you really had to get creative,” said Khan. He was charging $75 per 15 seconds recap video. “And I was really scared about it. I thought I would start to lose clients if I charged them at that rate, but people actually welcomed it,” said Khan. After becoming well known to promoters and event organizers in the city, Khan had also simultaneously perfected his craft as a videographer and director and built a good reputation. However, his weakness was staying focused on his business and remaining consistent. He went back to his 9-5 job three times as a result of not being able to pursue event coverage and content creation full-time to make ends meet. That all changed for him when his wife announced to him that he was going to be a father. “Having a son refocused me in terms of making sure that I treated this career like I would treat my 9-5,” said Khan. He knew he had to discipline himself and stay motivated. A mindset shift that really helped him out in this next opportunity that lead him to his dream career. “It was summertime in Toronto, and I was doing about 3 to 4 gigs in one weekend, which could be twice a day, whether it be a boat cruise, a rooftop party or a club,” said the videographer. In July 2019, Khan was invited to TD Echo Beach to do a recap video of a performer, but when the performer’s set got cancelled, he decided to leave early to go to another gig he had later that night nearby. He ran into an old friend, DJ Power, who mentioned he was going to TD Echo Beach after. “DJ Power and I got to Echo beach and he said, “let me introduce you to Sean’s manager because I know him.” We’re with Sean’s Manager, Steve, and he tells him, my friend here is a videog-
rapher and maybe he can shoot some stuff for you,” said Khan. Steve was pleased to have Khan shoot some video of Sean Paul’s performance, and so he did. When the night was over, Khan raced back to his car and immediately started to edit the footage to send to Seal Paul’s manager within a matter of minutes. “It baffles me when you see some videographers or photographers that are not disciplined with their work. If I shoot an event recap, I put it out by the morning, but you have photographers who give their content in a week later,” said Khan. The manager saw the video even before he had returned to the hotel. In the morning, Power told Khan that the manager had invited him to come to Montreal to make another recap video of Sean Paul’s performance there. He went, and again delivered the video the next day. “The next day would have been August 4th, my birthday, and I woke up to a message from Power that said, “Steve wants you to go on tour with them for Sean’s upcoming world tour. Are you available?” And I said f*** yeah,” said Khan. The videographer discusses what went totally wrong during their first stop in Rome. “In being in such a foreign country, I plugged my computer in to the outlet and it fried my entire computer. So, it was my first day on tour and I didn’t have a working computer, it fried everything up. Thankfully I still had all the footage on my camera,” said Khan. “I thought, ‘Are they going to send me home?’” Thankfully, they didn’t send Khan home, and were really understanding when he had let them know what happened, and how he was going to buy a new laptop on their next tour stop. The resilient and hardworking director also directed Sean Paul’s new artist Chi-Ching Ching’s music videos while on tour as well. His current resume lists working with artists such as Mannie Fresh from Cash Money; reggae/dancehall artist, Christopher Martin; Baby Cham; Chi-Ching Ching; Fat Man Scoop; plus, afrobeats artists such as Patoranking and Stonebwoy. By the end of 2019, Khan earned him-
self the job of shooting Buju Banton’s music video for the single Trust, as part of a Roc Nation collaboration. Since its release, Trust has become Buju’s highest grossing track and most viewed music video. In addition, he was hired as Cardi B’s world tour videographer. “I’ve travelled all around the world with her as of now. Getting to know her and observing her, she definitely is a sweetheart, and she is really energetic. She will ensure her team is well taken care of. If there is pineapple juice in her room, she wants pineapple juice in their rooms,” said Khan. “She’s still new to touring, she’s such a big artist, but she gets really nervous. Soon as she gets on the stage though it’s a wrap,” said Khan. The downside to a career that requires you to travel is not being able to see your kids grow up. Khan says you have to find a balance. “When I would leave, my son would cry, but now he’s kind of used to it. He’s getting accustomed to me missing a few occasions. You have to find that balance of providing and a balance of being there for your family,” said Khan. From someone who became a partner in a content creation business with no camera experience, Khan has come a long way in executing professional, brilliant and outstanding videos. In 2019 he was given an honourable mention by online blog What The Hype as one of the best directors in Toronto that artists should be shooting with. He is truly a Classic man who will have had a hand in many classics by artists to come.
Written by Selina McCallum Toronto Caribbean News Photo: Dez Photography
WITH OVER 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WHO ELSE WOULD YOU TRUST?
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BUYING & SELLING DURING COVID-19
We have entered in to very challenging times, however with all challenges come opportunity. The good news is homes are still being purchased! The safety and well being of our clients is our top priority during this health crisis. Whether buying or selling a home, we are commited to providing you with a safe environment and the best possible experience.
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Direct: 416.418.2745 (BRIJ) Office: 416-745-2300
96 Rexdale Blvd. Toronto ON M9W 1N7
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www.danforthfoodmarket.com We’re simply the best West Indian store in town.
Quick Oats 700 g
2
50 $ 2/
Jamaican Pride
Hun-E-Bear Honey
4
Canaddin Pride Vegetable Oil
4
Jamaican Pride Calaloo
1
99
2 lbs
3L
540 ml
Cannon Blue Soap 3x130 g
each
each
49 each
39
2
each
50 $ 2/ Each
Grace Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Jerk Seasoning 312 g
3
$ 2/
Nestle Spring Water
1
Caribbean Kitchen Spices
3
99
12x500 ml
Assorted 170-400 g
Red Barn Corned Beef 340 g
2/
each
99
5
50 $ 2/
Sun Triple Clean Laundry Detergent Assorted 30 Loads
2
99 each
1
2
99
1
Phoenicia Large Lima Beans
$ 2/
Whine It Up Non Alcoholic Drink
1
398 ml
750 ml
each
each
1
99 $ 3/
Grace Coconut Milk Powder 50 g
12
99
Baker’s Pantry All Purpose Flour 10 kg
7
Disposal Gloves Box of 500
each
each
99 each
Lucozade Orange Glucose Drink 1 L
99 each
69
Top’s Cerasee Tea 24’s
each
5
$ 2/
Benjamin’s Vanilla 480 ml
Nupak Yellow Split Peas
4
Face Mask
9
2 kg
3 ply pkg of 10
50 $ 2/
95 pkg
Chicken Leg Quarters
28
22
case of 18 kg
with purchase of 2 cases or more
Salted Beef Short Ribs
16 lb case
Soft & Tender Milk Fed
5
1
95 $ 79 pkg
$
case of 10 kg
with purchase of 2 cases or more
with purchase of 2 cases or more
Jamaican Stew
Fresh Chicken Soup Bones
19
95
95 $
$
Frozen Chicken Drumsticks
Frozen Chicken Wings
Fresh Back Attached
Jamaican Manish Water Burnt Cow Feet
Oxtail
Frozen Goat Head Burned
Fresh Beef Liver
99 $ lb 99 99 $ 49 $ $ Bag lb lb
4
7
3
Frozen
Don’t Over Cook Your Oxtail;45 Minutes Top! YOU DON’T PAY FOR FAT NOR CUT-UP WASTE!
99
¢ lb
Fresh Seafood Catches
Fresh Whole Salmon
3
Fresh Lane Snapper
5
Frozen Herring Sprat
Frozen King Fish Steaks
5
2
Fresh Porgy Fish
3
$ 99 $ 99 $ 99 $ 49 $ 49 lb as is
Fresh Buttercup Squash
lb as is
Fresh Jamaican Yellow Yams
lb as is
Fresh 2 lb Bag Onions
1Six Locations To Serve 2 You Better1 39
99
lb
lb
Fresh Green or Ripe Plantain
1
29
lb
lb as is
19
bag
lb
Specials in Effect Thu. April 30th until Wed. May 6th, 2020.
Store Hours
Monday-Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 8 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 7 pm
Store Hours
Monday-Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 9 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 8 pm
Lawrence Ave. E .
Store Hours
Monday-Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 9 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 7 pm
Finch Ave. E.
Store Hours
Mond-Thurs 8:30 am to 8 pm Fri.-Sat. 8:30 am to 8:30 pm Sunday 9 am to 6 pm
Dixie Rd.
Dundas St. E.
Store Hours
Mond-Thurs 9:30 am to 9 pm Fri.-Sat. 9 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 6 pm
Stafford Dr.
Rutherford Rd. South .
Finch Ave. W .
Bloor St. E.
Danforth Food Market 1225 Dundas St. Dixie & Dundas Missisauga 905-949-9990
Cawtra Rd.
d
Steeles Ave. E .
Danforth Food Market 3051 Pharmacy Ave North Finch 416-490-9219
Pharmacy Rd.
Roa
Danforth Food Market 651 Markam Rd. 416-439-6397
Markam Rd.
ion
Martin Grove Rd.
Danforth Food Market 301 Silverstone Dr. A l b 416-740-9870
D r.
Keele St.
Sheppard Ave. W .
Sheppard Ave. E .
Steeles Ave. W.
Si lv er st on e
Finch Ave. W.
Danforth Food Market 3701 Keele St. 416-398-8123
Kennedy Rd. Soith
Although we strive for accuracy in both copy & illustration, unintentional error may occur, we reserve the right to correct any error. Specials Available While Quantities Last. We reserve the right to limit quantities. Danforth Food Market 144 Kennedy Road South 289-298-0399
Glidden Rd.
Store Hours
Monday-Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 8 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 7 pm
n o m a n Cin s ll o R n a c a e P FOOD
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Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
T S I S E R T ’ N A C U O Y •
NOEL CUNNINGHAM noel@carib101.com
CULINARY EXPERT
Cinnamon rolls is the quintessential pastry that’s very hard to resist, from the cinnamon scent to the ooey gooey center filled with caramelized sugar. It’s perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Now that most of us are at home and unable to get one of our favorite mall/cafe treats, I’m sharing this recipe so that you can still indulge when you need a treat in the comfort of your home. The kids will thank you. I made this recipe because I was craving some home-made cinnamon buns. I must say, I was surprised with the outcome. This is a quick and easy cinnamon pecan roll recipe you can easily make for your family. Making cinnamon rolls can usually be time consuming but the result is worth the wait. These buns are sooo good hot from the oven when they’re gooey and warm. They can be prepared the day before and left to rise overnight in the refrigerator. Baking time: 15-20 minutes Preparation time: 1:35 minutes Ingredients: • Dough • 2 ¼ cups flour • 2 tsp instant yeast • ¼ cup granulated sugar • 1 cup milk • 1 egg • butter • 1 tsp salt Filling • ¼ cup brown sugar • 2 tbsp. cinnamon powder • 2 tbsp. melted butter • chopped pecans Cream Cheese Icing: • 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature • 4 tbsp (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened • 1 cup powdered (confectioner’s) sugar • 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste • Pinch of salt
•
¼ cup milk of choice (or more if necessary) ¼ cup raisins, optional
Directions: In a small bowl, combine yeast, 1 tsp sugar, and warm milk. Let stand until the yeast is creamy, about 10 minutes. Add eggs and 1 tbsp. melted butter then whisk to combine. In a medium bowl, combine flour and ¼ cup granulated sugar. Slowly add milk mixture and knead until a dry dough forms. Turn it on to a clean dry surface and knead. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a bowl for one hour to rest and double in size. When the dough has doubled in size, punch it down. Roll it out on a floured surface into a 15” by 9” rectangle. Spread melted butter all over the dough. Mix sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle over the buttered dough. Sprinkle it with pecans, or raisins if desired. Beginning at the 15” side, roll up the dough and pinch the edges together to seal it. Cut the dough into 12 to 13 slices. Coat the bottom of a baking pan with butter and sprinkle it with sugar. Place the cinnamon roll slices close together in the pan, covered, and put aside to rise until the dough is doubled (proof ), about 25 minutes. Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes or until nicely browned. Remove from the oven, and immediately turn buns out onto a cookie sheet. Add a glaze if desired and enjoy. Cream Cheese Icing: Whisk together cream cheese and butter in a medium bowl until completely combined and smooth. Add vanilla and salt and whisk again. Whisk in powdered sugar until fully blended. Add milk, 1 tbsp at a time, until the mixture reaches a pourable, but still thick, consistency. Pour and spread the icing evenly over the warm cinnamon rolls in the pan, making sure the tops of the rolls are completely covered. Serve warm with coffee and watch people’s eyes light up with unadulterated joy!
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FOOD
Summer salad with grilled halloumi This brightly coloured salad with crispy halloumi cheese is light enough for summer but will certainly satisfy your hunger. Start to finish: 20 minutes Servings: 4 INGREDIENTS • 300 grams arugula • 1 fennel bulb • 1 pomegranate • 2 oranges • 1/2 cup olive oil • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey • Salt and pepper • 400 grams halloumi cheese • Sprigs of fresh dill, to garnish
Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
Grilled fruit: 5 tips for a perfect sear Indulging in fresh, local fruit is one of the pleasures of summer. Grilling them, how ever, amplifies their inherent sweetness and flavour while adding a seductively smoky taste. Here are five tips for grilling them. 1. Choose firm fruit. Grill firm-fleshed fruit like peaches, avocados, melons, pineapples, pears and apples. Save soft and overripe fruit for other purposes. 2. Skewer small fruit. Use wooden or metal skewers if you want to grill small fruit such as strawberries or smaller pieces of large fruit. This will ensure they don’t fall into the fire. A perforated grill basket works too. 3. Cut thick slices. Melons and pineapples should be sliced into thick rounds or wedges. Peaches, mangoes and other smaller fruit are best cut in half. When possible, keep the skin on and grill flesh side down. 4. Season the fruit. Before placing fruit on the grill, coat them with brown rum, melted butter or vege-
table oil. Also, brush them a few times with your coating of choice while they’re cooking. To enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit, you can sprinkle them with cinnamon and sugar or drizzle them with honey beforehand. 5. Grill one side only. This will ensure the fruit have caramelized exteriors and juicy interiors. For best results, grill them over high heat for three to four minutes without moving them. Grilled fruit can be enjoyed alone or with your favourite meal. Alternatively, you can use them as a garnish for summer cocktails or a topping on vanilla ice cream or plain yogurt.
7 types of burger for your next barbecue DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat one side of the grill on high heat. 2. Divide the arugula onto four plates or in shallow bowls. 3. Cut the fennel bulb in half and slice thinly. Divide the slices between the four dishes. 4. Cut the pomegranate into four wedges and loosen the fruit with your fingers. Divide it between the four dishes. 5. Supreme the oranges and divide them between the four dishes. 6. Over a small bowl, use your hands to squeeze the juice out of the leftover orange peels. Add the olive oil, mustard and maple syrup or honey. Whisk together until well emulsified. Add salt and pepper to taste and set the dressing aside. 7. Cut the cheese into slices that are a centimetre thick. Oil the grill rack on the side of the barbecue that isn’t lit. Put the halloumi slices on the oiled grill and cook for about one minute on each side. Divide the cheese between the four dishes. 8. Drizzle each dish with one quarter of the dressing and garnish with fresh dill. HOW TO SUPREME AN ORANGE Trim the top and bottom of the orange to create two flat edges. Then, rest the fruit on one end and cut off the peel, making sure to remove the white pith. Put the orange on its side and cut along the edge of each membrane to the core, releasing perfect wedges.
The humble hamburger is a summertime staple, and though there’s nothing wrong with an all-beef patty on a sesame seed bun, there’s more than one way to give your burgers a boost. Here’s how to take your patties from average to extraordinary using a variety of meats. 1. Beef. The flavour of beef is enhanced by onions and garlic. Add an unexpected twist to these burgers by topping them with grilled Italian sausage or mixing finely chopped chorizo right into the patties.
2. Lamb. This earthy meat makes great hamburgers. To enhance their flavour, top lamb burgers with bacon, goat cheese, lime juice or fresh mint leaves. 3. Bison. Leaner and more tender than beef, bison has a slightly sweet taste that isn’t gamey. It’s best enjoyed seasoned with just a few herbs and spices. 4. Pork. This versatile meat complements a variety of ingredients. Add ginger and soy sauce to your patties for an Asian-inspired twist or use Cajun spices and grill them over charcoal for a smoky flavour. 5. Veal. This meat makes juicy patties that can be seasoned with almost anything. The mild taste of veal is enhanced by fresh herbs and melted cheese. 6. Fish or seafood. Salmon, tuna, cod and even shellfish like lobster and crab put a lighter twist on traditional meat burgers. You can simply grill filets instead of patties or bread your seafood of choice and pan fry it until it’s crispy. 7. Poultry. Chicken, turkey and even duck make great burgers. You can season them any way you like or bread the patties for a bit of crunch. No matter what type of meat you use, be sure to avoid overhandling it while forming the patties. Overmanipulating the meat can alter the texture of your finished burgers.
FOOD
Wednesday, April 29, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News
PAGE 29
Blueberry cheesecake lemon bars This decadent dessert combines the tang of blueberry and lemon with the creamy texture of cheesecake. It’s sure to be a showstopper. Start to finish: 2.5 hours (30 minutes active) Servings: 24 bars INGREDIENTS Crust • 1-1/3 cups flour • 2/3 cup butter, room temperature • 1/2 cup sugar
4 types of picnic food that are sure to please Are you planning a picnic? Whether you’re headed to the beach, park or wilderness, packing a lunch to eat outdoors is a must. Here are four types of food you can eat pretty much anywhere. 1. Sandwiches. Compact and easy to make, sandwiches are the perfect picnic food. Swap your regular bread for bagels, tortillas, crois sants or French baguettes, and fill them with your choice of deli meats, spreads and grilled veggies. Serve with chips and raw vegetables. 2. Finger foods. Pack an assortment of snack foods and let everyone choose what they want to eat. For adults, consider bringing olives, nuts, soft cheeses, pâtés, dips, crackers and crusty bread. If you’re picnicking with children, think veggie sticks, hummus, mild cheeses, tor tilla chips, salsa and guacamole.
3. Handheld foods. Foods that don’t require utensils or plates are ideal for a picnic. Think cold pizza squares, individual quiches, spring rolls or small, savoury tarts. Sushi is also a great choice, provided you have a way to keep it cool and fresh until you reach your destination. 4. Salads. There are countless varieties of salad, and most of them are ideal for a picnic. Prepare or buy a pasta, bean, rice, quinoa or potato sa lad. If you opt for leafy greens instead, pack the dressing separately to ensure the ingredients stay crunchy and fresh. Once you’ve decided on your main course, be sure to pack your beverage of choice and one or more desserts.
How to make homemade ice pops Do you want to make your own ice pops? It’s easier than you think. Here’s how. USE YOUR FAVOURITE DRINK To ensure you like the flavour of your ice pops, use a beverage you enjoy. Fruit juices, smoo thies, drinkable yogurts and flavoured teas are all great options. If you’re a coffee lover, use cold-brew coffee or dissolve instant coffee crys tals in cream or milk. If the liquid isn’t presweetened, you can add maple syrup, honey or sugar. MIX AND MATCH FLAVOURS If you want more elaborate ice pops, combine your favourite ingredients. Some great flavour combinations include strawberry and lemo nade, cucumber and mint, mango and almond milk, chocolate and yogurt, and pineapple and coconut milk. Toss your ingredients in a blen der, pulse until smooth and then freeze. To make your ice pops even more interesting, layer two or more different flavours. You can do
this by partially filling the ice pop moulds with one flavour and letting it freeze for about an hour before pouring in the next one. INCORPORATE TEXTURE Add whole berries, slices of fruit or even can dy to your ice pops. You can show off these treats by using a translucent liquid as the base. Alternatively, make these ingredients a surprise by concealing them in yogurt or an opaque drink. To ensure your ice pops freeze all the way through, leave them in the freezer for at least eight hours. Run the mould under hot water for a few seconds before removing your ice pop to make sure it comes out in one piece.
Ice pop moulds come in an assortment of shapes and can be made of plastic, silicone or stainless steel. If you shop around, you’re sure to find one you like.
Lemon layer • 3 eggs • 1-1/2 cups sugar • 1/4 cup flour • 1/3 cup lemon juice • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
Cheesecake layer • 450 grams cream cheese, room tempera ture • 1/2 cup sugar • 1 egg • 1/4 cup sour cream • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • Juice of 1 lemon • 3 cups blueberries, fresh or frozen Crumble • 1 cup flour • 1/3 cup sugar • 1/2 cup butter, melted • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat the oven to 375 F (190 C). Line a 9 x 13 inch (25 x 35 centi metre) cake pan with parchment paper, spray with cooking spray and set aside. 2. To make the crust, combine the ingredients in a bowl and mix them by hand until you’ve achieved a crumbly texture. Pour the mixture into the cake pan and press it along the bottom using a spatula to make an even layer. Bake for 20 minutes. Take out of the oven and set aside. Reduce the oven temperature to 350 F (175 C). 3. To make the lemon layer, combine the eggs and sugar in another bowl. Add the flour and mix well. Add the lemon juice and zest and incorporate well. Pour the lemon mixture over the crust. Bake for 20 minutes. Let cool for 20 minutes. 4. To make the cheesecake layer, beat the cream cheese and sugar in a third bowl until well combined. Add the egg and beat again. Add the sour cream, vanilla and lemon juice and stir to incorporate. Fold in the blueberries and set aside. 5. To make the crumble, combine the ingredients in a fourth bowl and mix them until the crumble has the texture of wet sand. 6. Pour the cheesecake layer over the lemon layer and spread it out carefully with a spatula. Sprinkle the crumble over the cheesecake layer, making sure to cover it comple tely. 7. Bake for 60 minutes or un til the cheesecake is firm. Let cool completely be fore cutting into bars.
PAGE 30
HEALTH
Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
3 gluten-related issues Gluten is a protein found in grains such as wheat, rye and barley. Here are three health issues related to its consumption. 1. WHEAT ALLERGY People who are allergic to wheat will have an autoimmune response if they consume it. This can result in trouble breathing, abdominal cramping, a drop in blood pressure, hives, redness and other hallmark symptoms of an allergic reaction. While rare, anaphylaxis can occur. 2. CELIAC DISEASE This chronic autoimmune condition primarily affects the small intestine, which beco-
mes inflamed if gluten is consumed. This results in gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation and bloating. The condition can also cause systemic problems like chronic fatigue, depression, anemia and, in some cases, osteoporosis. 3. NON-CELIAC GLUTEN SENSITIVITY (NCGS) This controversial and still poorly understood condition is currently only diagnosed when a patient’s issues with gluten are clearly not due to a wheat allergy or celiac disease. Its symptoms, which include headaches, eczema and joint pain, manifest after ingesting gluten and subside once it’s eliminated from the diet. Because of its close association with fad diets and dubious claims made by self-professed nutrition experts, there’s been resistance to recognizing NCGS as a legitimate diagnosis. If eating foods that contain gluten causes you to experience unusual symptoms, be sure to consult your doctor.
3 habits that are hurting your back Back pain is one of the most common health complaints among North Americans. It also tends to be the result of bad habits. Here are three common culprits.
your neuromusculoskeletal system, which is likely to trigger back pain. Try to sleep on your back or side instead, as this puts less strain on your spine and muscles.
1. BAD POSTURE If you regularly slump while watching TV or spend hours slouched at your desk, chances are your back is paying the price. Try to sit in a straight, upright position as often as possible.
3. CARRYING A HEAVY BAG Walking around with a heavy bag every day is likely to cause back pain. This is especially true if you carry it on only one shoulder, as this increases strain on your back.
2. SLEEPING ON YOUR STOMACH When you lie on your stomach, your lumbar curve is unsupported and your neck rests at an unnatural angle. This puts pressure on
In addition, back pain can be caused by a sedentary lifestyle, an inadequate mattress or pillow, kidney problems and even certain types of cancer. If you suffer from persistent back pain, be sure to consult a doctor.
Trigger finger: causes and treatments If your fingers are frequently stiff and un comfortable, especially in the morning, you may be developing stenosing tenosyno vitis, better known as trigger finger. This common condition causes discomfort when flexing or extending the affected finger, which is often the thumb or ring finger. Bending or straitening it may result in a palpable snap. In severe cases, the finger may get stuck in a bent position.
If you think you may be suffering from trigger finger, be sure to make an appointment with your doctor.
CAUSES Trigger finger is the result of inflammation in the flexor tendon sheath (the protective covering that surrounds the tendons in your fingers). This causes the affected finger to become partially or fully immobilized. Prolonged inflammation may result in nodules forming in the tendon, thereby restricting the finger’s movements even further. TREATMENTS Typically, trigger finger caused by unusual and forceful hand activity will respond well to rest, a splint and anti-inflammatory medication. However, severe cases and those caused by a chronic health condition such as arthritis may require a corticosteroid injection to be resolved. Should this treatment fail to produce results, surgery will likely be necessary.
Osteoporosis: who’s at risk? Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissues in the body. It occurs when the creation of new bone tissue can’t keep up with the natural breakdown of existing tissue, causing bones to become brittle. This disease commonly leads to fractures in the wrists, shoulders, vertebrae and hips. RISK FACTORS Though the cause of osteoporosis remains unknown, the risk factors are well understood. It’s more common in women, particularly following menopause. In men, the risk goes up after age 50. Other risk factors include low calcium intake, genetics, a sedentary lifestyle, smoking and alcohol use. DIAGNOSIS Since it doesn’t cause pain or other noticeable symptoms as it progresses, osteoporosis is typically diagnosed quite late,
often after a fracture occurs. A bone density scan following a suspect fracture will confirm the diagnosis. TREATMENT There’s no cure for osteoporosis, but there are ways to prevent and delay its onset and progression. Depending on the case, certain medications may be prescribed. However, all patients benefit from taking calcium to help maintain bone mass. Ad ditionally, vitamin D supplements allow the body to absorb calcium better. Regular physical activity will also reduce the risk for fractures and slow the rate of bone degradation. At-risk individuals, especially women who underwent early menopause and those whose parents had hip fractures, should discuss osteoporosis with their doctor at their next appointment.
HEALTH
Wednesday, April 29, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News
Are posture correctors safe? DR. VIKAS PURI drpuri@carib101.com
HEALTH SPECIALIST
You might have seen these devices on a television ad or on Amazon.ca. These are straps that claim to help correct posture if worn throughout the day. Let’s talk about how they works and why or in what conditions you need them? Do you suffer from neck pain, stiffness, or self-consciousness because of bad posture? Are you thinking of buying posture correctors? Bad posture can stem from an injury, bad habit, or genetic predisposition, but with time, effort, and the right tools, it can be corrected. Everything from your sitting position, your ability to live an active lifestyle, and your emotional state can be negatively impacted by poor posture. Incorrect posture and alignment create muscular imbalances, which can lead to further imbalances below the upper body.
Do you know that we are born with natural posture correctors? Now the question is which are they? Muscles such as: the rhomboids, paraspinal and trapezius. These muscles tend to weaken throughout the day due to a lack of exercise and a sedentary lifestyle. This can cause a forward shift of the head in relation to the body. This phenomenon is called the upper cross syndrome. A posture corrector uses external straps to help position the spine in the correct position. However, over time these devices can cause weakening of our posture correcting muscles, which can lead to worsening posture. This phenomenon is like wearing a brace/cast on an ankle for an extended period. The disuse of the ankle causes the surrounding muscles to weaken. So, that means postural correctors are not safe to use? We usually recommend incorporation of exercises with postural correctors to help strengthen the muscles and joint back to their normal state. Using a posture corrector alone every day can cause weakening of postural muscles, which can cause symptoms such as neck pain, upper back pain, and tension headaches.
Many of us ask ourselves: “Why do we even need postural correctors if we have to exercise?” The answer to this is that postural corrector braces counteract our tendencies to round shoulders and hunch. When we sit with our shoulders forward for extended periods of time, the soft muscle tissues gets tight across our chest. If your posture is chronically in a bad position it feels strained to hold your shoulders back or to stand up straight. Your back gets rounded and shoulders go forward. When wearing a posture brace your muscles gets pulled back to what used to be your natural position. We only recommend wearing it for 15-30 minutes a day. This allows the muscle to relax and become ready for postural strengthening exercises without you getting strained. A posture corrector should be lightweight and comfortable to wear when your spine is in its neutral position. If you start to slouch or round your shoulders, the device should provide gentle correction.
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PAGE 31
PAGE 32
COMMUNITY
Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
COVID-19 Pandemic: Unmasking the "fallacy" of global leadership - Part 1 ERROL A. GIBBS errol@carib101.com
PHILOSOPHER
Condolences to the bereaved families of the "martyrs" who have lost their lives to the ravages of the COVID-19 pandemic, likewise, grace to the "saints" on the frontlines who are making incredible sacrifices to confront the global challenges that it presents. They are (not all-inclusive) clinicians, researchers, emergency management personnel (EMS) personnel, pharmacists, public service workers (PSWs), food processors, grocery store workers, restaurateurs, and transit drivers. Praise to some of the major governments around the world for their rapid response in providing economic relief and setting up "medical firewalls" to protect citizens. Likewise, the many citizens that have acted responsibly to preserve the lives of others in the private and public spaces. An incredible difficult proposition for a world that has become a "global village" manifestly unprepared for the likes of COVID-19 - though, global disasters and pandemics are familiar to world leaders. The first insightful observation is that preparedness for an impending emergency is primarily about leadership (national and international) - more so than
the crisis itself. Interestingly, peoples and nations inconsequentially may not consider crises that seem physically distant and out of sight - as bona fide emergencies. Perhaps it is in the human Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) to forestall actions until the physical and often deadly reality confronts humankind. The world (ancient and premodern) has existed under a dark cloud of uncertainty regarding disasters, whether by "acts of god," "man," or "nature." During such times, the Mayan, Toltec, Aztec, and Natchez civilization entrusted their faith and destiny to the hands of their god(s) and made sacrifices for appeasement. Religion, mythology, and a Pantheon of gods and goddesses guided ancient Greek civilizations. Soothsayers came on the scene in pre-modernity as people lived with a sense of foreboding as their capable guide. In stark contrast, modern and postmodern humans benefit from the exponential growth of religious enlightenment, education, academia, scientific research, history, philosophy, and prophecy. More importantly, every human being has sub-conscious foretelling. Extrasensory perception or ESP (the term originated by Duke University psychologist J. B.) also called sixth sense, which includes claimed reception of information not gained through the recognized physical senses but sensed with the mind. Modern humans so equipped, begs the question, "Why are human beings living in a state of perpetual unpreparedness at significant risks to human life?"
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People, reflecting on COVID-19 brings to mind Hurricane Katrina, one of the most catastrophic hurricanes on record in postmodern times. A tropical cyclone on record, tied with Hurricane Harvey in 2017, causing $125 billion in damage, particularly in the city of New Orleans and the surrounding areas, with the loss of some 1,200 lives. The second incisive observation is, there are no disasters that signify an "an act of God" (a force majeure") a great force." It is disputable that calamities visit the Earth without foreknowledge and forewarning, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Mournfully, the human problem is denial, complacency, complicity, and lack of accountability for the reverence for human life. Likewise, leaders often fail to comprehend the superiority of "spiritual intelligence" to undergird "human intelligence" (IQ) and "artificial intelligence" (AI) as their capable guide. What can global leaders say to their God (a Western Christian belief ), or their "god(s)? Are the least among us, not the "elders?" They are the "salt of the Earth?" How do anxiety, fear, depression, and poverty benefit the human family? Examine the division by race, religion, colour, culture, class, caste, education, wealth, gender, and age. Why do human beings have to live in a vast competitive battlefield? Who has engineered these battlefields in every nation where brother fights against brother? Who benefits from the chaos? The third perceptive observation is the coronavirus has unearthed the "fal-
lacy" of global leadership, the "fissures" of structured inequities, and leaders who have wrought injustices upon the Earth. It has exposed to the world, the "pandemic of silence and betrayal" of the citizens of nations. Humankind lives in an "ecosystem" to a greater or lesser extent, undergirds "survival of the fittest." Arguable, engineered to benefit the 1, 10, and 20 percent of humanity - the wealthy and powerful of the Earth. Global leadership is an enigma. When disaster strikes, leaders "falsely" cry out for international cooperation among countries. They hold high-level international meetings and conferences to proclaim world solidarity. Paradoxically, many of these nations are independently or in an alliance of preparedness for war, equipped with Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD), deficit-financed in the trillions of dollars that stagger the imagination. COVID-19 gives us pause to contemplate our fragile and temporary "mortality" that rests upon the antibodies of the survivors to save the rest of humanity. Can any race of people or nation wrestle the grand prize of "immortality" from the hand of God, or their "god(s)?" The time has come for leaders of nations, especially Western professing Christian countries to call upon their God, as a promised mandated in the Biblical narratives. Reference: 2 Chronicle 7:13-14 and Jonah 3: 1-10. Part 2 of 2 will present observations about a post-COVID-19 world.
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PAGE 34
LIFE
Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
3 ways to give your mom a break on Mother’s Day One of the best gifts you can give your mom for Mother’s Day is time off. Here are three ways to make her day more relaxing.
terior and can also treat leather seats or remove stains and smells from the up holstery.
1. Take care of dinner. Whether you invite her out for a quick bite or prepare a multi-course feast, your mom will be delighted to share a meal with you — especially if she doesn’t have to cook it herself.
3. Do the chores. Make your mom happy this Mother’s Day by cleaning the house from top to bottom. You can even hire a professional to wash the windows. Ad ditionally, you could drop her clothes off at the dry cleaner to be laundered or the tailor to be mended.
2. Detail her car. Though you can wash your mom’s care in the driveway your self, for superior results, you should take it to a professional. Car detailing specialists will clean and wax the ex
While you cross items off your Mom’s todo list, consider sending her to the spa to relax and unwind. She’s sure to love being pampered.
Mother’s Day around the world Every country has its own Mother’s Day traditions. Here are a few ways this occa sion is celebrated around the world. GERMANY The second Sunday in May is considered a day of rest for moms across the country. It’s also an opportunity for children to spoil their mothers. The day usually be gins with a tasty breakfast and flowers, followed by a family walk. Mother’s Day in Germany typically ends with a hearty meal.
ETHIOPIA Rather than landing on a fixed date, Mother’s Day takes place at the end of the rainy season in the fall. The festivities begin with a traditional dish prepared by the children while their mothers relax. Singing and dancing are highlights of the celebration, which lasts three days. Though traditions vary, one thing is uni versal: Mother’s Day is an opportunity for people to celebrate the most impor tant woman in their life.
ENGLAND In the U.K., the fourth Sunday of Lent, which is usually in mid-March, is known as Mothering Sunday. Originally, it was a day for servants to take off and spend with their family. Now, it’s customary for sons to give their mom flowers and for daughters to bake a cake made of dried fruits and almond paste. BRAZIL On the second Sunday in May, Brazilian children celebrate Mother’s Day by put ting on a show for their mom. After at tending mass, extended families gather for a big barbecue to mark the occasion.
The perfect present for every mom Are you looking for a Mother’s Day pre sent? If so, here are some gift ideas for different types of moms. THE ORGANIZED MOM A woman who’s always taking notes and making lists is sure to appreciate a stylish notebook or agenda. Or, if she’s always digging through her purse to find what she needs, a handbag organizer with plenty of pockets will make her life ea sier.
THE STAY-AT-HOME MOM Stay-at-home mothers often neglect to make time for themselves. If your mom or kids’ mom is always on the go, give her the ultimate break from her routine: a day at the spa. Alternatively, you can bring the indulgence to her with a mon thly box subscription. She can have tea, makeup, books or even beer delivered right to her front door.
THE ECO-FRIENDLY MOM To please this mom, give her something that will make a positive impact on the environment. Sustainable goods like reu sable produce bags, beeswax food wraps, metal straws and reusable paper towels are a good idea. She’s also likely to appreciate all-natural versions of every day products like soaps and cosmetics.
5 last-minute Mother’s Day gifts Mother’s Day is coming up fast. Do you have a present for your mom yet? If not, here are five last-minute gift ideas guaranteed to put a smile on her face. 1. Coffee or tea. Stick to what she loves or introduce her to a few new flavours. 2. Beauty products. Let your mom know she deserves to be pampe red from head to toe. There’s so mething for every mother, from nail polish and makeup to bubble bath and scented body lotions. 3. Sweets. Candies and chocolates are classic Mother’s Day gifts, just be sure to choose what she enjoys.
THE GLOBE-TROTTING MOM If your mom regularly travels, give her a gift that’ll make her next voyage easier such as wireless headphones or a new carry-on bag. Alternatively, a scratch-off world map will remind her of past adven tures and spark her inspiration for her next big trip. Remember, expectant moms deserve to be spoiled too. If she’s struggling with the aches and pains of pregnancy, a pre natal massage is an excellent gift. You can also prepare healthy frozen meals so that she has one less thing to worry about when the baby arrives.
4. A subscription. Spoil your mom all year long with a subscription to a magazine, a streaming service or a monthly box from her favourite brand. 5. A book. If you know which genres and authors she likes, the staff at a local bookstore can help you find a great read. Complete the gift with a personalized bookmark. No matter what you give your mom for Mother’s Day, be sure to include a card with a heartfelt message. It’s a token she’s likely to treasure for years to come.
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PAGE 36
LIFE
Silly Nomads Jubilee Bike Race Hero’s Part I BY MAKAYLA B. 11 YEARS OLD TC JUNIOR CONTRIBUTOR
Okay! So, where was I? Oh yes! In the last article I was reviewing the amazing book series, Silly Nomads. I am writing about books one, three, and five, and you will have to read books two and four. It all starts off when Suhcrom and Naddih get the idea to go “bike flying.” Borrowing Nigel’s “super” bike, the brothers, Sterlin, Rodney, Desreen, and Muffet go to the school that was previously under-construction to go and fly Nigel’s bike. Using six cinder blocks and a large piece of wood, they create a ramp in front of a hill. Taking turns and starting on the bike near the middle of the hill, they push off gaining momentum and shoot across the ramp and flying into the air and doing stunts. Things change direction when Rodney decides to start at the top of the hill. Despite his friend’s warnings he doesn’t listen and gets sent flying higher than the others then falls off the bike and falls face-first in the dirt with the bike lying in a heap, broken beside him. On the way to Nigel’s house to tell him what happened Rodney finds a dollar bill. They decide to go to Mr Burke and use the money to pay him to fix the bike. When Nigel finds out his bike is broken, he felt distressed because on Saturday he has his first race. Does he get it fixed? I guess we have to wait and see.
EMPOWERING OUR YOUNG MINDS OF TOMORROW TORONTO CARIBBEAN NEWS INC.
Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
A better decade for Simone Jennifer Smith: Reliving my past traumas, Part VI SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com
HUMAN SPECIALIST
“I wish I could understand what they are saying.” As I sat there, I heard people behind the desk talking. The officer who spoke English was the only person I understood. Over the hum of conversation, I heard the words, “Canadian,” and “Interpol.” I had no idea what they were saying, so I tuned it all out. I sat trying to figure out what to think, but in a situation like this, you are left with nothing but unknowns. I will be honest; the part that was the most distressing about my situation was the fact that I had no say. I realized right away that people were going to treat me the way they wanted to here, and there was nothing that I could do about it. I felt all my dignity being stripped away after the first time I had to take off all of my clothes so that they could do their searches. Yes, women did the search, but there is some-
thing about being told you have to take off you clothes, and expose yourself to a stranger that is downright degrading. It was one of many searches that I had to undergo, and after about a month, I got used to it. After my search, I was ushered back into the main room, and with a defeated spirit, I sat down. There were so many thoughts running through my head. What were my parents going to say? How long would I have to stay in Panama? What was Peter going through right now? What was going to happen with my business? Business was going well for me, and I knew that things would never be the same after this. I heard laughter coming from behind the counter, and the English-speaking officer came over to me. “Simone Jennifer Smith,” he started. “ We are going to be moving you to holding in a little bit. Is there anything in your luggage that we need to know about?” I looked up at him puzzled. I slowly shook my head. I thought that is was a pretty stupid question. Why would I have anything on me when I was travelling? Then I thought about it. These officers only saw me as a criminal, and nothing else. Forget the whole idea of innocent until proven guilty. I know from personal experience
that you are guilty until proven innocent. “Well,” he continued, “Before we leave, we are going to check your luggage. Then we will take you to holding.” He walked away, and left me there with my thoughts again. My head was spinning, but I was determined to not show any emotion. I shut everything down. It is what I do in high stress situations. I shut off my feelers. It seemed like hours went by, and two officers came up to me. They gestured to me to stand up and follow them. We walked down a long hallway and finally we exited a set of steel doors that led to a police van. They opened the doors and I hesitated. I had no idea where they were taking me. I had no idea where I was going. Horrible images flashed through my mind as I thought of the fact that I was alone, and these people could do anything they wanted to me. They noticed my hesitation. The female officer who was there nudged me forward gently. I reluctantly stepped into the van, and the doors closed behind me. It was a gorgeous day, and if I were not otherwise occupied, I would have enjoyed how beautiful the day actually was. All that I could think about was the final destination. Where was I going? What did the next 48 hours have in store for me? Inside, I wept.
2020 is not canceled; it’s being restructured! GARCIA AKUA
garcia@carib101.com
COSMIC CORNER
Love & Light family! I pray you are all safe during these unsettling times. It has been just about a month since COVID-19 was deemed a worldwide pandemic. In the following weeks, we have seen closures all across our country and the world alike. Schools, businesses, places of worship, have all been closing down. Major events and festivals have had to be canceled or postponed. Every day we tune into new updates around social distancing and when we will finally be allowed outside. Many are starting to feel restless with the measures and just want to break free. It really does feel like 2020 is canceled. Let’s look to the cosmos for some answers! At the beginning of the year we discussed some of the major energies for this year. We had a lot of activity going on in the sign of Capricorn, which is the sign of
hard work and independence. Jupiter and Saturn were both in Capricorn. Jupiter the planet of expansion was asking us to expand the way we look at work. Saturn, the planet of boundaries and restriction, was asking us to look at how we will set boundaries and deal with work restrictions. The Cosmos was giving us an indication that big changes were on the horizon. Now that we are in the middle of all these changes, what is the energy telling us today? On April 22nd, we had a beautiful new moon in Taurus. We know from our past discussions, that new moons are times of setting new intentions. This magical new moon happened to fall on Earth Day. This is no coincidence as Taurus is the first earth sign of the zodiac, and Taurus is ruled by the planet Venus. This new moon brings love, sensuality and highlights our values and finances. Taurus is also a feminine energy, likewise the moon. So, this moon also ushered in a divine feminine energy, which helps honour and celebrate Mother Earth. The way out of this confusion is to go through your heart. We don’t have work titles or status to define us right now with all these changes. Whether you are an essential worker or not, it is essential for you to define your purpose and highest self at
your core. This will allow us to plant seeds that truly feed our intentions. What sets your spirit on fire? Where do you find motivation? What do you truly value? With the fertile earth energy, we can plant seeds of joy, love, compassion and purpose. In the process you may come across feelings and experiences you have buried deep inside due to fear and trauma. As we start to tend the ground of our spirits, these issues may come to surface to be weeded out and replaced with seeds of intention and purpose that will feed your soul. 2020 is not canceled it is being restructured! Use this time to restructure your mindset and perspective. You have the opportunity now to restructure your reality. We can’t give up on our goals and dreams because we want things to be “normal” again. Everything shouldn’t go back to normal. Normal wasn’t always effective. Let’s use the fertile energy to birth a new normal, to lay a new foundation and begin to build a new world. Get grounded in this earth energy. If you take the in earth and rearrange the letters, we get HEART! The way out is through your heart, your love, passion and purpose. It is your blueprint to restructure. 2020 is not canceled, it’s being restructured!
LIFE
Wednesday, April 29, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News
PAGE 37
Mathematical modelling predicts COVID-19 scenarios PAUL JUNOR
paul@carib101.com
EDUCATION
As the COVID -19 pandemic continues to exert a global impact, many are concerned about its far-reaching effects. The: social effect, economic impact, political fallout, financial toll, psychological shock and spiritual consequences have turned the world upside down. In order to make sense of what is happening, scientists, politicians, bureaucrats and analysts have resorted to mathematical modelling. It is defined as, “A process that uses math to represent, analyse, make predictions, or otherwise provide insight into real-world phenomena.” It has become an important predictive tool that is used to foresee the fallout from the COVID-19 crisis globally and nationally. In elementary school, students are exposed to Patterning and Algebra as a unit in their Mathematics curriculum.
This is intended to expose them to the importance of understanding mathematical relationships in terms of numerical, graphical and algebraic connections between variables (cause and effect). In high school, students build on this foundation to study linear and nonlinear relations from Grade 9-12. They learn about algebraic, graphical and numerical models in terms of linear, quadratic and exponential relations. These models are simply representations of real-life situations and contexts. Models have applications in diverse disciplines, and can be used in natural sciences (biology, physics, chemistry) and social sciences (economics, psychology, sociology, political science). In Ontario, the provincial government has used mathematical modelling to conceive worst-case and best-case scenarios from the COVID-19 outbreak. There are certain specific steps that must be followed. These include: defining a problem, making assumptions, identifying your variables, getting a solution, analysing, interpreting and reporting results (m3challenge.siam.org). In an update titled, “COVID-19: Modelling and Potential Scenarios Ontario’s Action Plan” released on April 3rd,
2020 by Public Health Ontario, it was predicted that up to 100,000 Ontarians could likely have died over the pandemic period if the province had not followed stringent public health protocols. With no intervention there could be up to 6,000 deaths and 300,000 cases. With extreme prevention, there would have been 200 deaths and 12,500 cases. Under current intervention, there could be 1,600 deaths and 80,000 cases. Two weeks later in an update from the Ontario government on Monday, April 20th, 2020, new modelling indicated that there would be less than 20,000 COVID-19 cases during the first wave of the pandemic. There will be far less than the 80,000 that was originally predicted, with a peak occurring earlier than what was expected in May. On Monday, April 20th, Premier Doug Ford made a statement, “Today, we saw new modelling that shows there’s some light at the end of the tunnel. The numbers clearly show that the steps we have taken as a province are working because of you.” The modelling update revealed that: • Community transmission of the virus has levelled off
• • •
Outbreaks in long-term care homes and aggregate settings are increasing More must be done to help those most susceptible Ontario is on a path of best-case scenario rather than worst-case scenario.
According to Doug Ford, “The modelling clearly demonstrates that we are making progress in our fight against this deadly virus. That’s due to the actions of all Ontarians, those who are staying home and practicing physical distancing and the heroic efforts of our frontline health care workers.” The closure of schools, non-essential business and banning of all public gatherings is in effect until May 12th, 2020, and it is expected that the curve will be flattened by then. As the Ontario government continues to update the numbers, there is much hope and expectation that it will be far less than it is predicted. In the mean time, we can all collectively do our part to help reduce the chance and possibility of being affected and infected by this deadly and contagious virus by praising social and physical distancing. Reference: m3challenge.siam.org
The Queen who would Rule as King, Part II DAVE RANKIN dave@carib101.com
AFRICAN HISTORY
So far, our journey into the 18th dynasty of Kemet has given us some profound insight into the life and times of the four pharaohs of the New Kingdom. Djehutymes the 1st, the great military commander and 3rd pharaoh, had expanded Kemet’s empire further south into Nubia and controlled new territory in Syria/Palestine. His predecessor and 2nd pharaoh, Amenhotep the 1st had earned the name as the ‘Bull who conquered the Land’ by quelling neighboring uprisings and erecting numerous building projects
in nearby cities such as: Elephantine, Kom Ombo. The famous of them all was his expansion on the Temple of Karnak in Waset or Thebes. This seems to have served as inspiration for Queen and co-regent Hatshepsut to follow in the footsteps that were left before her. Ironically, she left her mark upon her nation in her own way. This would be a reoccurring theme, as the world became witness to her first imprint when she commissioned her Mortuary temple to be built out of a side of a mountain at Deir-el-Bahr. This magnificent display of architecture left her people in awe. Little did they know, she had just begun. Queen Hatshepsut commissioned the building of four obelisks or ‘tekhenu’, pronounced ‘tek-hen-ooo’. An obelisk or tekhenu was a pharaoh’s way to pay homage to the creator and was usually placed at the entrance of temples. The four-sided structure was engraved with all kinds of inscriptions of divination and was constructed from one large stone capped
with a pyramid at the top. This was sometimes called a ‘pyramidion’. Although only one of them survives today, they were 97 feet tall, making them the 2nd tallest obelisk in the land and weighed well over 300 tons. The pièce de résistance was what the capped stones were encased with. In her own words, Queen Hatshepsut delivers the following, an excerpt taken from the base of the surviving structure. “I was sitting in the palace and I remembered the One who created me; my heart directed me to make for him two obelisks of electrum, that their pyramidions might mingle with the sky.” Electrum was a metal composed of gold and silver. Silver was rare in those days. For the capped stone to be encased with both these metals showed Hatshepsut’s power. Any time the sun or Ra shone his light upon the obelisks, the reflection would literally ‘light up the two lands’ of Kemet. Queen Hatshepsut did not disap-
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point when it came to revealing her architectural might. Never satisfied, she always pushed for more. She had a vast amount of monuments built during her reign. Only the great Rameses the 2nd erected more monuments than she did. Queen Hatshepsut did all this while ensuring the future pharaoh - and would be ruler of Kemet Iset - would be crowned as Tuthmosis the 3rd She sent him all over the country to learn from the finest in military warfare, politics, and other areas of life. After all, if he was going to be pharaoh, Tuthmosis the 3rd he had to be prepared like all other boy regents of yesteryears. While the young boy was away, Hatshepsut only had to contend with the ever-growing jealousy of her stepson’s mother. A concern that rode her mind and set up the stage for her next move, one that would top the building of all of her monuments and forever cement her place in history.
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LIFE
Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
Domestic-related incidents and common criminal offences during COVID-19 NANA ADJIE-POKU nana@carib101.com
LEGAL SPECIALIST
Over the past month, there have been certain trends found in common criminal offences. As residents of the GTA are advised to stay home unless they: fit the category of essential workers or businesses, going to the grocery store, or going to important appointments, many are at risk of being victims of domestic-related incidents. These individuals are typically women and children, and they are at a high risk because they are around their abusers more than usual. Police use their judgment and lay domestic charges if there is enough evidence to warrant such a charge. This happens even if the victim(s) do not want charges to be laid. More than 70 shelters across Ontario have seen an increase in calls for assistance. One particular shelter (that caters to predominantly Muslim and immigrant women and children) has received 400 calls per week as of April. This is double the amount they typically receive. In Halton Region, police received 277 domestic-related phone calls and ended up laying 177 charges. Surprisingly, Peel Region reported that they have not seen much change in comparison to 2019 with 1,024 domestic occurrences between March 1st and April 2019 and 1,021 as it stands to date. I have a personal relation to domestic violence. I was in a similar situation a couple of years back and being able to leave to attend work and school was the thing I looked forward to everyday. I sympathize with the fact that there are individuals out there who are stuck in a home and have no way of making an excuse to even: leave the house to get away from their abuser, to seek help, or even just to get away for sanity purposes.
You have next to nowhere that you can run, and this impacts your mental and emotional state in a huge way. While I am happy to report that I am four years passed that relationship, it is something that I know can impact your life in a huge way. If you are experiencing domestic-related abuse, contact the Assaulted Women’s Helpline at 1.866.863.0511 or call 911. If you are unable to phone, you can send a text message to #SAFE (37233) if your phone carrier is Rogers, Fido, Bell or Telus. In relation to common offences such as: auto theft, robbery, stunt driving, and commercial break ins, they have all seen an increase. Traffic violations including impaired driving, assault, homicide and fraud saw a decrease. Below are some of the statistics for some police services across the GTA. Toronto Police Service (comparison to January 2020) Auto Theft - 2 % decrease Assault - 4% decrease Robbery - 7 % increase Homicide – 37 % decrease Sexual Assault - 10 % decrease Durham Police Service Sexual Assault – 22 % increase Domestic Related – 14 % increase (increased from 12 % of the past month) York Regional Police Stunt driving - 60% increase Commercial break ins - 45% increase Auto Theft - 44% increase Domestic Related – 22 % increase Traffic Violations – 32% decrease with Impaired showing a 29% decrease Fraud – 16% decrease Weapons – 13% decrease York Regional Police Service reported a more than 50% increase in stunt driving offences. One of the reasons for the increase in stunt driving offences are because many of us are at home and the roads and highways are now empty, so drivers feel that they can take over the road and speed excessively.
Wednesday, April 29, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News
The Chonilla Network: Diverse content from diverse voices CHRISTINA GWIRA christina@carib101.com
TECH SPECIALIST
I wanted to change the direction of the whole COVID-19 conversation. I personally was feeling very tired with the constant notifications, updates and statistics popping up all over the place. I do not do well working form home and that was greatly diminishing my creativity and productivity (sorry Simone, Grant and Alanna!). Nevertheless, life still goes on, Coronavirus or not. So, I decided that I’d like to focus on an aspect of the lockdown/ quarantine that we’re all going through together, for the most part: working from home. While I find working from home horrible, having a good witty and stimulating podcast playing in the background definitely helps me find some relief. In the next couple of articles, I’ll be highlighting various local, Canadian podcasters of color who are doing their part to make the new workday a much better time. Last edition, I shed light on the politically based podcast The Drip. In today’s issue, I’ll be sharing an interview that I did with close friend and supporter Sherley Joseph of the Chonilla Network. Back in 2010, we’re rounding up the end of the subprime mortgage crisis, the earthquake of Haiti has taken place, and the first episode of Chonilla has been produced. The name Chonilla is a portmanteau of chocolate and vanilla, paying homage to the heritages of co-hosts and couple Sherley Joseph and Clove Roy. In 2010, podcasts surrounding the dialogue of interracial couples were not “a thing”. At the time, the only other podcast – to Sherley’s knowledge - that was discussing the dynamics of interracial relationships, and all that comes with it, was the podcast and show, “The Black and the Jew”. The foundational podcast of the Chonilla Network, Chonilla is a comedic, personal journal of an interracial couple. Covering topics from raising children to racism, pop culture to hard-hitting topics, the podcast aims to be a thought-provoking and entertaining podcast where con-
versations are had and there is acknowledgement and respect for each other’s differencing cultures. After a moderate hiatus, the podcast re-launched in January of this year, and the network has grown immensely since that first episode in 2010. From the headline podcast, The Chonilla Network was spawned. The network is a podcast-first, digital content creation company. The network currently has four (4) podcasts in the Canadian roster, with an American series in the kitty as well. The Interracial Jawn is a podcast from the viewpoints of, “An interracial couple discusses pop culture, TV, movies and current events from their unique perspectives as a very white guy and a mostly black woman.” The Uncolonized podcast is, “A funny and blunt podcast about race, politics, and culture from a Canadian perspective.” The podcast is hosted by Montreal comedians Gavin Stephens - a cheerful knitter and Raptors fan - and B Black, whose “Comedic style is the product of his life as a black French Canadian and as a repressed socially awkward, son of a preacher man from Haiti.” Black Canadian Content Creators is not only a podcast in the Chonilla Network, but also a bustling community on social media. The podcast showcases, “Digital or analog creators who identify as: Black, African, Caribbean or Mixed in Canada or black Canadians living and creating abroad.” The Kakle is a podcast that shares opinions, viewpoints and issues surrounding family, parenting and all that comes with it. Hosted by Sherley and her co-host Tanisha, if you’re looking for a podcast for parents, by parents (who like a little bit of wine after a long day of home-schooling), this is the show for you. As a whole, Clove and Sherley have been true to the podcast art form and have been a support for new and established podcasters, using their experience to amplifying the voices of BIPOC (BLACK Indigenous People of Color) creators for close to a decade. So, if you’re like me, cooped up in the house, looking for something new and original to listen to, check out the podcasts on The Chonilla Network. You can also connect and become a part of the Black Canadian Content Creators community on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can read the blog, and stay up to date of current episodes of the Chonilla shows at: http://chonillanetwork.com.
TECHNOLOGY
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HOME
Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
3 reasons to wallpaper your home Once considered outdated, wallpaper has made a comeback in recent years. Here are three reasons to choose wallpaper instead of paint for your home.
If you love the look but aren’t ready to commit, many companies make temporary wallpaper that’s easy to put up and take down.
1. It makes an impact. With a wide range of colours, patterns and textures to choose from, wallpaper makes it easy to make a statement. And there’s an option to suit every style, from bold, geometric patterns to pastel floral prints and more.
• Chest freezers generally offer more space per cubic-foot than upright models. However, their design makes it harder to find things, as there are usually no shelves or drawers to help organize your food. • Upright freezers have shelves and dra wers that make it easy to organize your goods. They take up less floor space than chest freezers but have less usable space.
3. It’s easy to remove. Modern, non-woven wallpapers are designed to easily peel away from the wall in one big sheet. Unlike older types, there’s little risk of damaging the wall underneath.
SIZE Both freezer types are available in a variety of sizes. Your choice will depend on where
4 elements of the perfect playroom
1. Different zones. Create separate areas in the room to make crafts, read books and do homework. Make sure they also have an open area for imaginative play. 2. Ample storage. Storage solutions like shelving units and bookcases can help keep stuff off the floor. Smaller boxes and baskets are perfect for keeping toys organized. 3. The ideal location. If your children are still young, you may want their playroom to be close to where the family gathers
Are you running out of room in your freezer? If so, a stand-alone freezer may be just what you need. Here are some factors to think about when choosing one. TYPE There are two kinds of stand-alone freezer:
2. I t’s long-lasting. Wallpaper that’s been properly hung can last 15 years or more. In addition, it holds up better in high-traffic areas of your home than paint, which should be reapplied at least every five years.
Are you thinking about creating a playroom for your kids? If so, here are four things that will make it child friendly and the perfect place to play.
Choosing the right freezer
so you can keep an eye on them. However, older kids may prefer a space of their own in the basement or elsewhere. 4. Child-friendly textiles. Your children need comfortable surfaces like sofas, chairs and rugs to relax and play, but these will get dirty quickly. Washable fabrics make cleaning up easy. You may also want to choose patterned materials, which are better at hiding stains. To ensure your children don’t grow out of their playroom too soon, avoid decorating it with their favourite cartoon characters or colours that may seem too childish in the years to come. Opt for timeless decor and furniture that can grow with them.
you’re planning to put it, what you want to store and the size of your family. As a general rule, plan for 1.5 cubic feet for each member of your family. However, hunters, gardeners and people who buy food in bulk may need a bigger freezer than a family simply wishing to keep a supply of frozen pizzas on hand. FEATURES Many newer freezers have features that make them much more convenient to use. They may include alarms that alert you if the temperature has dipped, locks to block access or make sure the door stays closed and dividers and tiered bins for chest freezers. Some upright freezers even offer soft-freeze zones, so you never have to deal with completely hardened ice cream again. To make sure your freezer works as efficiently as possible, place it some where away from heat sources and aim to keep it no more than two-thirds full.
How to update wood panels Does your home have wood panelling that needs to be updated? If so, here are some great ways to modernize it. • Paint it. This is the quickest and easiest way to update your wood panelling. White or bright colours will look fresh and clean, while darker ones will feel moody and sombre. Or, consider whitewashing the wood using watered-down paint. This will lighten the panels while preserving the grain. • Camouflage it. Use drywall compound to fill in the grooves between panels. Follow this with a coat of primer and your choice of paint. No one
will be able to tell that the walls are panelled. • Refinish it. Solid wood panels can be sanded and stained like any other wood surface. Choose a lighter tone for a Scandinavian feel or opt for a stain that mimics mahogany for a more luxurious look. If you love wood panelling and want it in your home, be sure to choose wide panels over thin ones and stay away from orangey tones, as these tend to look dated. Also, consider mounting your panels horizontally or diagonally instead of vertically for a more modern design.
FUN
Wednesday, April 29, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News
PAGE 41
WEEK OF APRIL 26 TO MAY 2 2020
ARIES
The luckiest signs this week: VIRGO, LIBRA AND SCORPIO
You’ll concentrate on your family this week. Those closest to you will place demands on your time. A new home may be on the horizon.
TAURUS
Travel might be difficult this week or your communications with others may not always be clear. Your outspokenness will have an impact on those around you.
PUZZLE NO. 708 ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 708
HOW TO PLAY :
GEMINI
Money is a cause for concern this week. Don’t hesitate to take matters into your own hands and negotiate with those involved. You may be able to resolve your financial troubles once and for all.
Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.
CANCER
Work is piling up and you don’t know where to start to get it all done. Pace yourself so you don’t get overwhelmed. If you man age your time and energy efficiently, you’ll get through it.
Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column, or 3x3 box.
LEO
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself replacing a colleague who’s going away indefinitely. This will cause some stress but will benefit you greatly in the end.
VIRGO
PUZZLE NO. 971 42. Spread frosting on 44. Sour 47. Wash lightly 51. Put up with 55. Traffic barrier 56. Respectful fear 57. Staff 58. Sermon topic 59. Receive 60. Now’s partner 61. Charlie Brown’s word
ACROSS 1. Shoemaking tools 5. Picks 9. Hearth residue 12. Stylish 13. “. . . maids all in ____” 14. Brewed beverage
15. Slit 16. They no longer work 18. Stroke, as a guitar 20. Trucker’s vehicle 21. Batting ploy 23. Trends 27. Raises, in poker 30. Chimney
residue 32. Pride member 33. Unlock again 35. Schedule 37. Festive event 38. Norway’s capital 40. Lid 41. Just manages to earn
DOWN 1. Biblical book 2. Hone 3. Fraud 4. Scour 5. Rower’s blade 6. Magician’s word 7. Carry 8. Do the butterfly 9. Had a pizza 10. Visit 11. Holds 17. Winchester, for one 19. Ponder 22. “____, Nanette” 24. “It ____ Me Babe”
25. Stupid person 26. Break in two 27. Compel 28. Mountaintop 29. Exclusive 31. Bath powder 34. Glue 36. Attendee 39. Child minder 43. Kitchen gadget 45. Overhead curve
46. Hard to find 48. PBS science series 49. Temper tantrum 50. Wiggly sea creatures 51. “Catch me” game 52. Feel indebted to 53. Gave permission to 54. Flock female
ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 971
When you speak in front of a large crowd, you’ll feel a thrill when you hear the audience applaud. However, one or more people may offer up some criticism you weren’t expecting
LIBRA
It’s often hard to balance the demands of your job with your responsi bilities at home. It’ll take some effort to juggle your job and your family’s busy schedule without disappointing anyone.
SCORPIO
You may take an unexpected va cation. You need some time away to clear your head before making a difficult decision and moving forward with conviction.
SAGITTARIUS
There’s a good chance you’ll have to tighten your circle of friends. Fortunately, some will pay you what they owe you before you have to remove them from your life.
CAPRICORN
You’ll find a billing error. It may take most of the week, but you’ll track down the problem and will be reimbursed in full.
AQUARIUS
A new medical treatment or diet will quickly prove to be effective. One thing’s for sure, you’re definitely moving toward living a healthier lifestyle.
PISCES
You’ll be surprised to find out just how popular you are in your circle of friends. If you’re single, you’ll be equally sho cked to re alize that more than a few people are vying for your affections.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING
Meet Arvin This seven month old Angel was rushed to Hospital after he began to have trouble breathing. It was discovered that he suffered from a condition where very little blood was flowing to the lungs and there was not enough oxygenated blood circulating through his little body. Due to extremely low oxygen levels he was rushed into the operating room for emergency surgery where a shunt was placed to increase blood flow to his lungs. This saved his life. Due to his small size however, this temporary treatment would only allow him to survivelong enough to undergo future surgeries. After a few days, he was able to breathe on his own and drank his first bottle of milk one week after surgery. In the next few years, Arvin will need one or two more surgeries before he is completely cured.
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PAGE 44
REAL ESTATE
Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
COVID-19, Mortgage deferral is not the best choice brijpaul@carib101.com
REAL ESTATE PRO
Over half a million homeowners have applied for mortgage deferral. With COVID-19, many lost their jobs and cannot pay their mortgage. The six major banks are assisting by allowing homeowners to defer their payments for up to six months. Mortgage payments may be associated with property tax and insurance fees which must be paid monthly and cannot be deferred. While mortgage deferral is an option, it will cost consumers more. A mortgage deferral is not forgiven. It is a postponement of paying the mortgage until a certain time. When payment is finally due, must the entire amount be paid? If that’s the case, then, technically after six months we are in default and power of sale proceedings can commence against us. Our only option is to pay up the backlog. There is a second way.
est he earned on his TFSA is far less than the compound interest he pays on his mortgage. Susan, on the other hand, applied for a Home Equity Line of Credit. She mentioned that it’s like having a giant overdraft protection secured against her home. She can take out if needed and pay only the monthly interest and eventually when things change, she can pay down her line of credit. COVID-19 lockdown is affecting everyone and if we have to borrow money to survive, let’s be careful. Avoid cash advances from credit cards and pay day loans. The cost of borrowing is high and is not worth it. Some families opt to borrow from their RRSP but be cautious because it is not the best time to sell mutual funds or stocks. By cashing in your RRSP, you are depleting your retirement money. The withdrawal is taxable as well. Homeownership provides shelter and allows us to build wealth over time. We cannot predict the future, but we can plan for it. Many families have an emergency fund set aside for difficult times. The emergency fund should be enough money put aside for six months for us to live on. It is imperative that this amount should be easily accessible and not locked into other investments.
Landlords are facing a difficult time too. Many tenants are in default and are asking for rent postponement. Landlords who need the rent to pay their mortgage should consider the options above. It is important to have a written agreement with the tenant for postponement of rent. Many landlords worked out an agreement with the tenant to pay partial rent and defer the rest for a specific time. The courts are closed, and the Landlord and Tenant Board has suspended all hearings but the law remains the same. It is illegal to switch locks or cut utilities for failure to pay rent. Landlords cannot charge fees or penalties for late payment either. Tenants must be reasonable as well because once the courts are open, landlords can proceed to evict a tenant and garnish their wages. Let’s face the new reality. It’s time to stop pounding the ground. Let’s get up, dust ourselves off and look ahead. The human race is resilient and becomes stronger after every mishap. We are in this together and must work with each other because, soon, the hands of the clock will point in a new direction. It’s a new beginning.
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The deferred amount can be added to the remaining balance. Let’s assume that there is a mortgage of $400,000 with a monthly payment of $2,000.00. In six months, we will owe the bank $12,000 plus compound interest. This amount is added to the mortgage and is paid over the remaining term. With an increased principal, the monthly payment will increase unless we extend the number of years we have remaining to pay off the mortgage. Either way, over the lifetime of a mortgage, we are paying much more than we borrowed. Deferral can create an additional problem. A mortgage is considered as a revolving credit and if it is not paid, there is nothing in place to protect our credit history. It will show up as a missed payment and our credit score will drop. When our credit score drops, our ability to negotiate better mortgage rates diminishes and our capability to secure loans becomes an uphill challenge. If mortgage deferral is your only choice, then, discuss the various options with the lender and get it in writing. Instead of mortgage deferral, we can tap into our reserve. John was in a similar predicament and instead of postponing his mortgage payment, he tapped into his TFSA. His rational is that the inter-
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GARDEN
Wednesday, April 29, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News
5 natural alternatives to grass
Pests that can be repelled with plants
If you’re tired of mowing, wa tering and fertilizing your lawn, consider replacing your grass. Here are five alternatives that can be used as ground cover. 1. Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia): The golden-tinged leaves of this evergreen perennial prefer direct sunlight over partial shade. Creeping Jenny can withstand being walked on occasionally, and it produces vibrant yellow flowers in June and July. 2. Rupturewort (Herniaria glabra): Perfect for high-traffic areas, this resilient evergreen can tolerate harsh growing conditions and survive with very little water. Rupturewort’s dense leaves thrive in full sun, and its tiny green flowers line the stems in early summer. 3. Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum): Fragrant and beautiful, this herb is characterized by small leaves and flowers that range from pale pink to bright purple. Tolerant of foot traffic, this plant is a good choice for homes in wooded areas because deer and rabbits won’t eat it.
PAGE 45
Creeping Jenny
4. White clover (Trifolium repens): This plant is ideal for regions that get little or no rain because it thrives even during hot, dry summers. However, its delicate leaves and small white flowers are easily trampled. 5. Bird’s foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus): This adaptable plant can grow in almost any climate, so long as it gets plenty of sun. As summer progresses, its flowers will gradually change from yellow to red. Since many ground cover species are more delicate than grass, consider creating a stone foot path to avoid stepping on your new lawn.
Did you know there are a variety of plants that naturally repel insects? Here’s how to ward off a few common backyard pests using flowers and herbs.
berries. To ward off Japanese beetles, plant tansy, catnip, chives or marigolds. The smell and taste of the leaves on these plants will repel them.
ANTS In addition to feeding on sugary fruits and vegetables, ants farm tiny leaf-eating insects called aphids. To repel ants, plant tansy, lemon balm, mint, mug wort or chrysanthemums. Catnip also works well but may attract feline visitors.
Finally, while flies are relatively harmless, they can be a nuisance. You can ward them off with herbs such as basil, lavender and rosemary.
MOSQUITOES To keep these bugs at bay, grow scented plants like la vender, lemon balm, lemon verbena or basil. Mosquitoes also dislike the smell of citronella geraniums, which can brighten your garden with splashes of pink, red or purple. JAPANESE BEETLES These metallic-looking bugs aren’t picky about what they eat, but they’re especially fond of roses, string beans and rasp-
Marigold
Landscape redesign: 5 factors to consider
What type of fruit should you grow? Fruit-bearing trees, shrubs and plants are easy to grow and can add visual interest to your yard with their vibrant foliage and flowers. Here’s what to plant based on various preferences. IF YOU WANT A HARVEST THIS SUMMER To enjoy your fruit within a few months, opt for fast-growing plants. A few examples include strawberries, raspberries, ground cherries, cantaloupes and watermelons. IF YOU WANT LONG-LASTING PRODUCERS If you’re willing to be patient, plant a perennial tree or shrub that has a long life but only bears fruit after a few years. Apricot
trees and blackberry bushes take about two years to produce fruit. For blueberries, pears and apples, you’ll need to wait three years. Plum trees take six years. IF YOU WANT UNIQUE BUT DELICIOUS BERRIES If you want to plant fruit that’s a little out of the ordinary, try black currants, Arctic kiwis or Saskatoon berries. These berries are great for making mouth-watering jams. Keep in mind that some trees and shrubs only bear fruit if there’s a second plant nearby to pollinate it. If you want to grow apples, for example, you’ll need to plant two trees.
Upgrading your yard can be a major undertaking, and it’s easy to miss a key detail if you’re not careful. Here are five things to consider before you begin.
might also have to meet certain requirements such as respecting the maximum height for fences and hedges. Contact your municipality before starting any work.
1. ACCESS If your upgrade involves moving large objects into your yard, there needs to be a safe access route. Fences, walls and trees can make it difficult or impossible for trucks to deliver supplies. Create a plan before the work starts to avoid delays.
4. SOIL The consistency of the soil on your property can directly impact the stability of new installations. Heavy rainfall and rapid freeze-thaw cycles can make the ground unstable. Hire a professional to inspect the yard before you begin construction.
2. SPACE If you want to install a pool or build a large deck, make sure there’s enough room in your yard for both the structure and the installation crew. Also, verify where property lines are located before placing fences, hedges and trees.
5. UPKEEP Gardens may require frequent care to ensure they don’t become overgrown. Also, keep in mind that maintaining trees involves clearing seeds, leaves and branches. Additionally, many building materials need to be regularly cleaned, painted or stained.
3. REGULATIONS If your project involves a significant structural change, you may need to obtain a permit from the city. Your landscaping
Landscaping projects can revitalize your yard but for best results, they should be planned in advance.
PAGE 46
FINANCE
Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
Calculating the tax on your CERB FAZAAD BACCHUS fazaad@carib101.com
FINANCE SPECIALIST
In our last issue we discussed that the Government of Canada had put measures in place to assist with the financial stress of COVID-19. This benefit is available to workers residing in Canada, who are at least fifteen years old and have stopped working because of COVID-19 and have not voluntarily quit their job or are eligible for EI regular or sickness benefits. You had income of at least $5,000 in 2019 or in the 12 months prior to the date of their application and are/or expect to be without employment or self-employment income for at least fourteen consecutive days in the initial four-week period. Since the last issue there
has been a new development where if you expect to earn less than $1,000 per month, you can apply also for the CERB benefit. Let us focus on the taxes payable on this CERB income. The first thing to note is that this benefit is taxable, however there is no deduction at source. This means that taxes on the total amount you receive must be paid when you file your taxes in 2021 in respect of your total 2020 income. Everyone will have their own marginal tax rate (which is based the highest dollar earned in 2020) and it will be used to determine the amount of taxes due on the CERB. To better explain this, I will provide you with two examples. Harry earned a total of $3,000 between January and February this year and then was laid off due to COVID-19. He applied for the CERB and received a benefit of $2,000 per month for four months amounting to $8,000. Harry did not work again for the rest of the year and therefore his total income was $11,000. On this amount of total income, Harry does not have to pay any taxes on his CERB, the reason being
his total income is below the tax threshold and may even qualify for a refund for taxes withheld on the first $3,000. Shanti on the other hand earns $3,500 per month and earned a total of $7,000 between January and February and was also laid off due to COVID-19. Like Harry she applied and received a benefit of $8,000 over the four months. However, Shanti goes back out to work (if all goes well) in July and earns her normal salary of $3,500 per month. Shanti would have earned a total of $28,000 in regular income plus $8,000 in CERB and an amount of $36,000. In this case she must pay back approximately $1,600 in taxes on the CERB and it is payable when taxes are filed next year. This amount is magnified with individuals who are in the highest tax bracket who may have to pay back as much as $4,320. Therefore, it is recommended that you put aside a part of this money to cater for taxes next year. Another way to alleviate this problem is to make a RRSP contribution to reduce your taxes.
In-home or nursing home? COVID-19 has made us re-examine the care of our elderly ANDREW STEWART andrew@carib101.com
FAMILY ADVISOR
As COVID-19 ravages nursing homes across Canada those who are responsible for the care of our elderly have taken on a vastly more important role. The well-being of our parents and grandparents is our ultimate wish as they age and live out the last years of their lives. Aging is a fact of life and it affects all families. As adult children who may already be caring for our parents as seniors or will be in the future, we may not fully comprehend the extent to which their aging will affect them or how it will affect us not only emotionally but also financially. Many seniors who have in-home care are only there because they have family members supporting them. But the choice between in-home care or facility care will inevitability take into account varying levels of activities of daily living (ADLs) that can be met effectively. An overall decline in physical and mental vitality may result in visible and even drastic changes to ADL’s, our parent’s appearance, and standard of life. If there is impaired
mobility and health issues that make it difficult or impossible to take care ADLs such as self-feeding, functional and mobility, dressing, bathing or showering, and personal hygiene independently then determining whether to provide care by family members or someone else who is qualified or investing in the proper equipment and accessories would be the next step. Just as important as ADLs but are exceedingly forgotten about are activities called instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). IADLs refer to the following types of activities within long-term care: cooking and preparing meals, cleaning and maintaining the home, shopping and buying necessities, running errands, managing money, and paying bills, speaking or communicating on the phone or through other devices and taking prescribed medications. Long-term care insurance gives you added protection that government plans alone may not be able to provide, helping minimize cost and stress to you and your family. Benefits of long-term care insurance The benefits can provide flexibility so we can be cared for in the manner we desire the most, which may include: • Remaining self-sufficient without relying on limited government programs or burdening our family with caregiving responsibilities • Protect our savings, preserve an inheri-
• •
tance for loved ones and prevent running out of money in retirement due to extra health costs Home renovations required to make living space suitable Replacing lost income from a spouse or caregiver
How does a long-term care insurance plan work? Generally speaking, plans can be set up to either reimburse specific expenses, such as homemaking or private nursing services, or they can provide an income-style benefit, which means you’d receive money regularly that could be spent any way you choose. Staying in a long-term care facility can cost thousands of dollars a month and long-term care insurance can help pay for stays in nursing homes and chronic care facilities, as well as for rehabilitation and therapy programs. When a parent starts in any way depending upon their child, a world has turned upside down. It can be a strain emotionally, physically, and financially, especially when it means taking time off work or leaving full-time employment to provide that care. Long-term care insurance can help relieve some of that stress. Try to remember that taking care of an elderly parent is generally a marathon, not a sprint so take it slow and let the process reveal itself to you.
FINANCE
Wednesday, April 29, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News
PAGE 47
Six ways to create positive cash flow and build wealth for your family CLEVE DeSOUZA cleve@carib101.com
WEALTH MANAGEMENT
During the COVID-19 pandemic, most of us are focused on day-to-day concerns and expenses. But if you carve a little time out to look at the bigger picture, it could pay off. Before this happened, most of us had considered reducing household expenses. But the temptation to dine out with friends or catch the latest movie with the family was just too much. During the COVID-19 social distancing restrictions, though, many families have discovered that that they actually can do without all those optional expenses. For example, my family spends thousands every year on gas. We believed there was no other option, as we just need-
ed to get around. For the last several weeks, though, our fuel expense is virtually zero. And all work and meetings are being done from home virtually. Once the restrictions ease up, if my family can continue calling businesses instead of driving to them, we will improve our cash flow. Expenses are our habits and so we consider them necessary when they really are not and when situations come around like COVID-19 they quickly disappear and boost our cash flow. Here is how it works: Cash flow is your household income minus your expenses. A family earning $100,000 a year and spending $120,000 a year has a negative cash flow. If that same family reduces its expenses to only $80,000 a year, it has a positive cash flow. Overspending, or having a negative cash flow, equals poverty. Cash flow is a better measure of wealth than the size of your home or number of cars parked in the driveway. A positive cash flow gives families the money to boost savings accounts, invest in start-up businesses, save for college, or crush debt. During the current restrictions to ease the impact of COVID-19, your family
likely has new insight into how to improve its cash flow position. When the restrictions ease and businesses open again, consider asking your family to continue doing without a few things in order to improve your cash flow and build wealth. Here are some tips for how to improve your cash flow: Instead of going out to the movies, check to see the latest release on that streaming service you pay for every month. You might find a new favourite. Enjoy some healthy snacks at home and you will save not only money, but also calories. Numerous websites point to the cost-savings of meal planning. Planning a week’s worth of meals at a time means making one trip to the grocery store. It is easier to avoid impulse purchases when you are not in the store facing a display of fresh bakery goods. Take advantage of free or low-cost community events. After spending weeks stuck at home, visiting your friends and neighbours in a local park will feel as special as traveling to the city for a weekend getaway.
Pay your bills on time, every time. Over a year, even a $5 late fee adds up to $60. That is six months of Netflix. Binge watching the latest Netflix series is a lot more fun than paying late fees. If you can, pay off your credit cards. The interest rates vary, but they all add up fast. If you owe $200 on a credit card charging 19% interest (the average rate in Canada), your minimum payment is only $15. If you never borrow another dollar on that card and keep paying the minimum payment, it will take 16 months to clear the card and you will pay $26 in interest. That is two months of Netflix. Create a budget. One popular model is to spend about 50% of your aftertax income on what you need (housing, groceries, medicine, etc.); another 40% on what you want (entertainment, dining out); and put 20% into savings every month. If you have a plan, you are less likely to dip into savings or mindlessly spend money. Take this time at home to consider how you can cut expenses and save money in order to create a positive cash flow and build wealth for your family.
MAKE THE $20/mth PLEDGE AND AID IN HELPING CHILDREN IN THE CARIBBEAN IN NEED OF URGENT MEDICAL CARE THE CARIBBEAN CHILDREN FOUNDATION HAS HELPED OVER 265 CHILDREN
Rahsaan is taller because of you! Meet 16 year old Rahsaan Abel who was suffering from severe kyphoscoliosis, a curvature of the spine. With your help, The Caribbean Children Foundation (TCCF) has been able to partner with SpineHope in the treatment of scoliosis patient Rahsaan. Today he is smiling and doing well!
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Wednesday, April 29, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News
OUTDOOR LIFE
PAGE 49
A guide to cycling etiquette and safety When you ride a bike, it’s important to be courteous and respect the rules of the road. Here’s how to stay safe and be considerate toward motorists, pedes trians and other cyclists. SIGNAL YOUR INTENTIONS Make sure to always let other road users know where you want to go, using your left arm to indicate that you’re about to turn. To signal you want to go left, extend your arm straight to the side. To indicate you want to turn right, bend your arm up ward at the elbow. You should also warn pedestrians and cy clists if you intend to pass them by calling out or using your bell. Before coming to a complete stop, pull over to the side so you don’t cause an accident. RIDE SINGLE FILE If you cycle with others, don’t ride side by side. This can obstruct oncoming cyclists and prevent others from safely passing you. Additionally, zigzagging between pedestrians and other cyclists and devia ting into empty parking spaces can be dangerous. KEEP YOUR DISTANCE Don’t attempt to pass another cyclist if you might brush up against them or have to squeeze through a narrow space. In addition to being rude, this can lead to an accident. WAIT YOUR TURN When you’re at a red light, don’t try to ad vance to the front of the line. Be patient and give priority to the people who were there first. If someone allows you to go ahead of them, be sure to wave or otherwise signal your thanks. Finally, remember to be tolerant of inex perienced and slow cyclists. They may not know proper cycling etiquette yet and are still learning.
5 great reasons to go for a bike ride Cycling is an all-ages activity that’s fun, affordable and easy to learn. Here are five great reasons to go for a bike ride. 1. To stay in shape. Cycling provides a cardiovascular workout that strengthens the muscles in your lower body without putting pressure on your joints. 2. To reduce stress. Exercise, especially when done out doors, can help you relax, clear your head and boost your mood. 3. To explore. Biking is an ideal way to discover a new city or admire the local scenery at your own pace. You might even stumble upon hidden gems that aren’t accessible by foot or car.
5. To have fun. Biking is a great way to take advantage of fair weather while spending time with your loved ones. You can even pack a picnic and make a day of it.
4. To protect the environment. Cycling allows you to tra vel long distances without polluting the environment.
This summer, consider incorporating cycling into your weekly routine. Hop on your bike to run errands, commute to work or simply get from point A to point B.
5 ways to protect your bike from thieves
If you regularly use your bike to commute or run errands, you should take steps protect it from getting stolen. Here are five ways you can reduce the risk. 1. Lock it. Invest in a sturdy U-lock and use it when you leave your bike unattended. The best way to secure your bike is to weave the lock through the frame and front spokes.
2. S ecure the wheels. Although they make it easier to transport your bike, wheels with a quick-release mechanism are easy to steal. Opt for nuts and bolts instead. 3. Use a bike rack. Avoid fastening your bike to street signs and fence posts as they may not be properly lodged into the ground. A thief might be able to lift or unscrew the pole. 4. Move it around. Don’t park your bike in the same place every time, as this could make it an easy target. If you have to leave your bike outside all day, move it at least once. 5. Get it engraved. If someone steals your bike, an engra ving makes it easier to identify and harder to resell. Some police departments offer this service. Finally, keep a record of your bike’s make, model and serial number at home. This information will be useful if your bike gets stolen and you need to file a police report.
PAGE 50
OUTDOOR LIFE
A guide to cleaning your rod and reel To keep your fishing rod in optimal condition and extend its lifespan, rod and reel maintenance is a must. Here’s how to clean and lubricate your fishing rod. CLEAN YOUR ROD AFTER FISHING A simple rinse is generally enough to clean your rod and protect it against corrosion from saltwater. However, a more thorough cleaning with a cloth, lukewarm water and vinegar or a mild detergent should be done after every few uses. If there’s dirt on the rod, remove it with a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush. Always allow your rod to dry completely before putting it away.
CLEAN AND LUBRICATE THE REEL After each use, clean your reel with warm, soapy water and a sponge, then lightly rinse it and dry it with a cloth. Never immerse the reel in water or spray it under high pressure, as this could force water into the gears and damage the reel. Additionally, lubricate the various components of your reel using a reel lubricant. To do this, remove the spool so you can clean the inner compartment and lightly lubricate the shaft. Reattach the spool, then lightly lubricate the handle knob, line roller, bail arm, reel handle and spool. Every year or so you should give your reel a complete tune-up. This involves dismantling it, checking the bearings and gears for damaged components that need to be replaced and lubricating the moving parts. If you aren’t confident about dismantling the reel yourself, drop it off at a nearby tackle shop and entrust this task to a local pro.
Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, April 29, 2020
4 ways golfers can improve their mental game Golf is one of the most mentally challenging sports. Here are four tips to help you stay in the zone while you’re on the links. 1. DON’T DWELL ON BAD SHOTS No one wants to hook the ball into the trees or pencil in a triple-bogey. However, you need to be able to move on from a bad shot to focus on the next one. Strategies for dealing with a disappointing hole include chatting with your playing partners and planning your next shot.
you remain mentally sharp. Drink plenty of water, eat a nutritious meal and warm up before you hit the links. You’ll feel looser and more alert. By mastering your mental game, you’ll be able to shave a few strokes off your scorecard and make this challenging sport more enjoyable.
2. HAVE A PRE-SHOT RITUAL Following the same procedure before every shot can help you relax and get into the right head space. Many golfers like to be consistent down to the number of practice swings and waggles they do. 3. VISUALIZE SUCCESS Confidence can make a big difference. If you visualize yourself attaining the desired result before each shot, you may find you perform better. Moreover, this can help you work out a strategy for approaching a hole. 4. STAY HEALTHY Taking care of your body will help ensure
How to get rid of your golf slice Among amateur and intermediate golfers, slicing the ball is a common problem. Typically, it’s caused by an outside-to-inside swing path that leaves the club face open at the moment of impact. This sends the ball careening off to the right if the golfer is right-handed. Here are some tips to help you eliminate your slice and send the ball straight down the fairway. ADJUST YOUR SETUP Many golfers line up with the ball too far forward in their stance. This leaves the club face open at the moment of impact and prevents the golfer from properly releasing the club. To help get rid of your slice, experiment with moving the ball a bit further back in your stance. FIX YOUR GRIP A good golf swing starts with a good grip. It’s common for players who slice the ball
5 kinds of fishing lures
to have their top hand too far underneath the club, which results in an open club face. As a rule, you want to be able to see three knuckles on your left hand. TUCK IN YOUR ELBOW If your grip and setup are fine, then the issue is likely with your swing. One of the most common swing mistakes among players who slice is flaring out their right elbow during the backswing. This pulls the club away from the body, resulting in an outside-to-inside swing. To ensure your club follows a straight path, keep your right elbow as close to your body as possible during your back swing. If following this advice doesn’t deliver your ball onto the fairway, consider taking one or more lessons from a golf instructor. You’ll likely benefit from more personalized pointers.
Lures are designed to simulate live bait and have several other advantages. In addition to being less messy, they can help you cast further and target species more directly. Here are five kinds of commonly used lures. 1. PLUGS These hard-plastic lures are shaped and painted to resemble bait fish and other prey. They have a thin sheet of metal on one end, called a lip or bill, which makes the lure wobble. Types of plugs include crankbaits, minnows, wobblers, shallow-divers and deep-divers. 2. SPOONS These metal lures resemble a spoon without a handle. The concave shape causes them to wobble and reflect light, thereby resembling an injured bait fish, which is something no game fish can resist. 3. SOFT PLASTIC BAITS Used primarily for bass fishing, these
types of lures are designed to resemble worms, crawfish, lizards, frogs and other prey. 4. SPINNERBAITS These lures have one or more ovalshaped blades that spin rapidly and reflect light when pulled through the water. They imitate swimming bait fish like minnows and shiners, and they’re ideal for catching predatory species like bass, pike and perch. 5. BUZZBAITS There are different styles of buzzbait, but the defining feature of this type of lure is its ability to vibrate as it moves through the water. Buzzbaits are used primarily to target bass in shallow water. Are you still wondering which type of lure to use? If so, the staff at your local tackle shop can help you pick out the best option for the fishing you’re doing.
SPORTS
Wednesday, April 29, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News
PAGE 51
Warrior profile: The Eagle A look into Khabib Nurmagomedov’s life, career, and legacy MARCEL MARIAK marcel@carib101.com
TC JUNIOR REPORTER
With the COVID-19 pandemic in full stride and nearly every city worldwide on lockdown, sporting events and news are at an all-time low. It’s no surprise that the world of combat sports, where competitors are always either face to face engaging in fisticuffs or on the ground wrestling, has cancelled all of its events and shows until the pandemic is brought under control. Unfortunately for fight fans, this means no trash talk, no exciting matchups, and certainly no epic showdowns. While competitive fighting may have come grinding to a halt, let’s take this chance to “make lemonade” and learn a bit more about some of the world’s most outstanding modern warriors. In this issue’s Warrior Profile, we take a look into one of the world’s most successful and formidable combatants, the undisputed UFC lightweight champion, and the first Muslim to win a UFC title: Khabib “The Eagle” Nurmagome-
dov. Personal life and upbringing Born in the unforgiving and remote mountain ranges of Dagestan, Russia, Khabib Nurmagomedov grew up in one of the harshest environments in the world. The vast majority of Dagestan’s communities consist of small and sparse villages carved into the mountains. As a result, grocery stores are almost entirely nonexistent, and every single day is a fight for survival. The people of Dagestan live off the land, and everything is homegrown. Food is farmed, raised, or hunted, and even commodities that we take for granted, such as salt and water are made and collected from the landscape. For much of Khabib’s life (until he moved to California to fight and train with the AKA gym), this harsh lifestyle was his everyday experience. As a result, Khabib has made a name for himself in the UFC as one of the world’s strongest and most resilient fighters. Like most children in Dagestan, Khabib started wrestling at an early age. At only eight years old, Khabib began to train wrestling and combat sambo under his father: Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, an army veteran and decorated Dagestani athlete. Throughout his childhood, Khabib was exposed to harsh exercise and conditioning sessions, as well as some unorthodox training prac-
tices, which regularly included wrestling (and frequently winning against) young bears. Khabib continued to study various martial arts throughout his teen years until he made his professional MMA debut in 2008. Professional career Khabib Nurmagomedov has taken the MMA world by storm by setting multiple records and defeating many formidable opponents. His most notable achievement is his remarkable professional record. With a 28-0 record, he has never lost or drawn a fight in his entire professional career to this day, despite going up against some of the globe’s most renowned martial artists. Some of his most notable victories include a unanimous decision win over Al Iaquinta to capture the UFC lightweight title, a KO of Thiago Tavares despite his opponent testing positive for performanceenhancing drugs, and the submissions of both Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier. Khabib also holds the record for the most takedowns in a UFC fight after he scored twenty-one takedowns over the course of three rounds on his opponent, Abel Trujillo. Controversies Khabib’s strict upbringing, along with his religious conviction against consuming
any mind-altering substances, means that he’s not a fighter that often engages in trash talk. He made his stance on smack talk clear after his victory over Dustin Poirier, where Khabib commented, “The number one thing in MMA is respect. You have to respect your gym, teammates, coaches, and keep your gym clean; everything is about respect. MMA is not about trash talking.” Despite his calm and respectful demeanour, Khabib got caught up in controversy during his fight against Conor McGregor. Much trash talk was exchanged between the fighters, and it reached a boiling point when McGregor and his team attacked Khabib’s bus while he was inside. Khabib retaliated after the fight by scaling the cage and attacking one of Conor’s teammates in the crowd. Upcoming fights Khabib’s most highly anticipated future fight is a showdown against Tony Ferguson. The contest has been cancelled five times due to injuries and health issues between the fighters, as well as due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the multiple cancellations and problems that seem to plague the eventual showdown, MMA fans are nevertheless eager to see the two legendary warriors face off.
What does COVID-19 mean for the future of cricket? KAYLA KARIM
kayla@carib101.com
TC REPORTER
and was pushed back to April 15th 2020 in hopes of the pandemic depleting. However after the Indian government has put a more restricting ban on social gatherings as the severity of the virus increased, it was not possible to continue. Currently, there is discussion on having the schedule stretched to the first week of June. Only in their third season, the four teams in the Women’s T20 Challenge will unfortunately not be able to compete as it was set to be held in May 2020. The competition, which began in 2018, features the top women’s cricketers from around the world. The four teams that were scheduled to participate are Trail-
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As many fans know, the novel Coronavirus has put a halt to all major sporting events. From the NHL to the IPL, professional leagues across the globe have been “postponed” however; there is no word on when. Some international cricket leagues typically play in later months,
such at the Caribbean Premier League in October. But even then, it is unknown if it will be played due to the pandemic. ESPN Cricinfo has predicted an estimated time as to when major leagues would be back in full swing and what is at stake for each. The Indian Premier League is played annually in the Spring, typically April and into May featuring eight teams from different cities in India. It is of the most attended cricket leagues in the world and due to the pandemic, this year will be the first year that the league will be not completing a season in 12 years since it began in 2008. It was originally meant to start this year on March 29th
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blazers, Supernovas, Velocity, and the addition of the newest and final team. Another league scheduled to begin in May was the ODI League. With 13 teams participating, the ODI League was approved to play between May 1st this year and March 31st, 2022 serving as a qualification pathway for the 2023 Men’s World Cup in India. As it stands, the ICC is yet to finalize the playing conditions for the league. Unfortunately under these circumstances, only time will tell when some of these fan favourites will return to the pitch. The game of cricket, which is typically played all year will be at a standstill for the first time since World War II.
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