Tracking & Tracing - 062420

Practice physical distancing and stay 2 metres from other people.

Visit ontario.ca/coronavirus

2m

Paid for by the Government of Ontario

VOLUME 9 • ISSUE 11 • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24 2020

CANADA’S LEADING CARIBBEAN NEWSPAPER TO ADVERTISE: 647-722-6298 • ONLINE: TORONTOCARIBBEAN.COM

TRACKING & TRACING

SIMONE J. SMITH/TORONTO CARIBBEAN “When it comes to the greater good, your privacy is null and void.”

This quote is going to hold significance as you read through this article. Last Friday, on my show “A Better Tomorrow,” I came across a news story on Thursday evening with the title, “UK Residents to Wear a RFID Microchip under their Skin from January 1, 2021.”

I was interested, so I began to dig deeper into the story. By Friday morning, there were three to four articles discussing the idea, and I proceeded in bringing the information to the public. By Sunday, afternoon, there were eight to nine different articles debunking the story as a myth.

As I researched, I also noted that some of the articles that had originally been posted had been taken down.

I found this peculiar and disheartening because this week’s cover story was built around this story. I stepped back from it all, and then began my research again. Being in the media has taught me the importance of objectivity, and to take my time presenting information that may shock or incite emotions.

Continued On Page 8

BUY - SELL - INVEST

First & Second Mortgages Equity Loans from $5000 - $500,000 Debt Consolidation Home Refinance & Home Purchase Good or Less Than Good Credit

WITH CONFIDENCE Virtual Tours and High Quality HD Photos to Attract more Buyers Down payment Loans - Cash Back Mortgage Offers*

DAVE JOHNSON Real Estate Agent 647-867-7809

dave@searchrealty.ca | dave.searchrealty.co 50 Village Centre Pl Suite 100 Mississauga, ON L4Z 1V9

NATALYA TONEY

Mortgage Agent License #12275 Powered by

DLC BedrockFinancial Group Lic 12275

CALL OR TEXT 416-837-5460 natalya@lendmorefinancial.ca | www.lendmorefinancial.ca

FEATURE

PAGE 2

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

The ever embracing and expanding “You pretty for a dark-skin; what the f#@K does that mean?”

Written by Simone J. Smith Toronto Caribbean News

There is a raspy-ness, to her voice. One that can best be described as intoxicating; she sings through you. She captures you with her lyrics about love, and love lost. Pain and pleasure; these themes are layered, encapsulating the listener’s emotions.

There is a lot to be said about this Jamaican born, R&B sensation. Her music, rooted in soul, R&B, and hip-hop, continue to pay reverence to her Jamaican roots. Her rise to the top has not been a smooth one, but over the years, her fans have watched her steadily climb to musical heights. She has taken over the R&B world with a passion that is displayed in: her music, her onstage performances, and her unique sense of style. Her audiences are not just fans of her music, they also look to her for: inspiration, to learn about self-love, and create in themselves the confidence that she proudly possess.

Allow me to pull back a layer, and introduce you to the song-writing, songstress, Jayd Ink. “My name was inspired by Mick Jagger’s daughter; Mom really liked the name.”

Jayd started off as a songwriter. She just preferred being behind the scenes.

“Songwriters want to be performers at some time. I am an introvert and an extrovert, all at the same time. I started off writing poetry.

I am a big Tupac fan. He was brilliant to me. He was vulnerable, and it came out in his poetry. It was what helped me decide to sing my own songs and release them.”

My friend asked me to go to his studio to record a song. I free-styled the song and was like, shoot! This does not sound to bad.”

It was after this discovery that she became obsessed with writing. She shared with me that writing became like therapy to her. She just kept writing until she had book, after book of her words on paper. What she found most difficult was getting her music out. As an artist, you have to do a fair bit of travelling, and at that time she was not able to. She knew she would have to take a different route.

“I decided to sing my own songs, to see if I could get some attention as an artist.”

FREE COMPLIMENTARY EVALUATION REPORT

Jayd Ink

This is when the world was introduced to a creative genius; one who has the ability to merge her lyrics with precise, graceful arrangements.

Anyone raised in a Caribbean household can understand the pushback that comes when you tell your parents that you want to do something in the creative arts. Well, it was no different for Jayd Ink.

“My family is not from a musical background. I don’t blame parents for pushing back.

They want the best for us. They are a working generation. I wanted to own my own business.

My mom said you have to have: plan A, plan B, and plan C.

They have seen the up’s and down’s in my career. They see that I am good at what I do.

They see the recognition. They witness it. They see what it looks like to fight for your dreams. They see my passion. They see my drive. My family keeps me grounded.”

Jayd continues to establish her presence in the R& B world, and her accomplishments cannot be denied. Her song “Deep Under,” was premiered on the TV show “POWER” (Season 3, Episode 6). She has also been featured on a song with rapper T.I., where her vulnerable side was displayed through her deep and meaningful lyrics.

One of her most powerful experiences was when she was chosen as the winner of an interactive musical experience called “THE LAUNCH.” Here she had an opportunity to work with celebrity mentors, and each week she was able to reflect on what it felt like to become an overnight, chart-topping sensation. During the show, Jayd revealed that she was in a devastating car accident that left her with numbness in one leg. She shared her gratefulness to her physical therapy team, and family for helping her get her movement back, so that she could continue to pursue her passion.

In 2019, Now Magazine voted her song “Privacy,” on their Spotify Playlist: 101 best Toronto songs of 2019. In the same year, she teamed up with Full Crate, on his first release “Low Key.” Full Crate did a phenomenal job blending dancehall with R&B for a song that set the charts on fire.

It was also the first time that Full Crate had performed as a co-lead on a track.

“I haven’t had that ‘I made it moment!’ I try not to get caught up. I have been there before, and I know now it is an on-going journey.”

February 2020 The SoundCloud Creator Forum was held in Toronto, and it brought together rising artists who have expanded their brands

with the help of the streaming service. Jayd Ink was showcased that day, along with Toronto-bred talents: Anders, TOBi, and Amaal Nuxx.

Jayd recently released her EP, “Bound

by Nothing”, which features “Dark Skin,” a tribute to her skin tone, which delves into topics surrounding beauty standards and loving the skin she’s in.

The video begins with Jayd lying in a milky bath. The droplets pool, and then slide down her glowing ebony skin. When the beat drops, viewers are transported back to a forgotten era of hip-hop and R&B. The mesmerizing visuals continue, and her love for self is seen in each clip.

There is one scene when she experiences the jean moment; you know curvaceous girls; when you are trying to pull your jeans up over your ample God given gift.

The hook tempts you to listen a little more, “Your pretty for a dark skin.” I spoke with her about that line, and she provided me with some poignant insight

“Your pretty for a dark skinned girl!

What does that even mean?”

“It was a personal message for myself.”

Jayd tells me. “It took me awhile to release this.

I realize that this light skin, dark skin oratory, affects many women.

I created this song three years before it came out. It was originally free styled. I got through the first verse easily. One take. The second verse was harder. It was emotional for me. It took a couple months to write.

We are all on a quest to find ourselves.

It is important to me to love myself. I have to embrace myself in order to expand in life. I am working on being vulnerable. I have always had to be tough. I have always had to be strong. I did a lot of reading. I learned about meditation. Tuning in to myself. I write from a space of love. 90’s music is filled with love, and I am attracted to that.

Throughout the rest of the video, there are beautiful images of darker skinned women of all ages. Her message was clear. “It is important to align with yourself. I have to love me, in order to teach people to love themselves.”

Within the first week, she amassed almost 1 million streams on Spotify alone.

For those who know her personally, Jayd’s success is no surprise. For those who don’t know about Jayd, now you have the opportunity to witness the rising of a star.

Personal Injury Accident Specialists

Toronto • Scarborough • Pickering • Ajax • Whitby • Oshawa

Serving All of Your Buying & Selling Needs.

Buying or Selling? We’re here to help.

Personal Service Guaranteed!

MansfieldSalesDavid Representative Cell: 416-452-5818 | Office: 416-283-3000 mansfieldd@sterlingrealtyinc.ca www.mansfieldd.com

Motor Vehicle Accident Slip & Fall Injuries Landlord and Tenant

ABRAHAM LEGAL SERVICES

Personal Injury Claims Provincial Offences Pedestrian Accidents

Contact Abraham Legal for a FREE Consultation TEL: 647-696-4898 470 Chrysler Drive Unit 1 Brampton Serving Durham Region, Peel and Halton Region and Toronto and the GTA

NEWS

Wednesday, June 24, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 3

A venture into the unknown world of African scientists SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

This article was spawned from an article I wrote called, “BrainTech RoboticsSTEM Learning identifies a large gap in African student’s education.” In this article (located in the current edition, definitely check it out), I was quizzed on famous African’s in tech (STEM), and I failed the quiz miserably.

Not wanting to remain in my ignorance, I went on a quest. I was not only going to learn about some famous African scientists, I was also going to prepare my community so that they would be prepared for this type of question in the future.

Interestingly enough, finding Africans who focused on STEM was not very difficult. It made me think, “Why are these people not highlighted more in our education system?” As a community paper, it is our responsibility to share pertinent news stories with the people, but we also have to educate at the same time. Toronto Caribbean Newspaper would like to present to you, “A venture into the unknown world of African scientists.”

African scientists have assisted in launching us into space, discovered new disease treatments and developed worldchanging technologies. For some reason or another, many of their achievements and contributions in the science, technology, and engineering and mathematics fields are forgotten or go largely unrecognized.

Some say that this is a result of systemic racism. In this article we are going to present African men and women who have pioneered in the technology and science world. We must pay homage to these people, and provide role models for our young people outside of the musicians and athletes that they look up to.

Dr. Charles Drew Dr Charles Drew is responsible for creating the first blood bank. Born in 1904 in Washington, D.C., Drew attended Amherst College in Massachusetts and then McGill University of Medicine in Montreal, and graduated in 1933. (https://www.cdrewu. edu/)

During a time when Harvard would only accept a handful of African applicants a year, he received a deferred acceptance. He attended McGill University and earned the J. Francis Williams Fellowship, an award given to the top five students in the graduating class.

He practiced medicine in Canada in 1935, and continued to advance his education. He began work in the pathology department at Howard University, and was eventually promoted becoming the Chief Surgical Resident at Freedman’s Hospital.

He pursued his doctorate at Columbia University in 1938, and not long after was sent to work with John Scudder, who had been given a grant to start the first blood bank.

His legacy was defined in 1940, when he became the director of the “Blood for Britain” project. The project shipped blood and plasma to help treat civilians and soldiers who were fighting during World War II.

Drew is the person responsible for standardizing the protocols for collecting and storing blood, and many innovations that are now mainstays of blood collections, such as mobile blood banks, are a result of his work (https://www.nlm.nih. gov/).

Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler was the first African American woman to earn a medical degree. She is also the author of the America’s early medical textbooks, a guide for women and children entitled the “Book of Medical Discourses.”

She was born in Delaware, but she spent much of her early years in Pennsylvania. She began practicing as a nurse in 1852 in Charlestown, Massachusetts. This was before the profession required a specific training course. In 1860, she graduated from the New England Female Medical College (https://www.nlm.nih.gov/).

She moved to Richmond, Virginia where she served a community of 30,000 people, many of who were freed slaves who otherwise had no access to medical care. After retiring from the practice of medicine, she wrote her medical text in 1883. It was based on notes she had taken during her years as a doctor. Rebecca died in 1895.

Marie M. Daly Marie M. Daly became the first African American woman to earn a doctoral degree in chemistry when she graduated from Columbia University in 1947 (https:// www.acs.org/content/acs/en.html).

She studied how compounds produced by organs such as the pancreas contribute to digestion. Daly went on to teach at Howard University for two years and then pursued her postdoctoral research at the Rockefeller Institute in New York.

She joined the research and teaching staffs of Queens College, City University of New York, Howard University, and Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. After joining the departments of biochemistry and medicine at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in 1960, she studied how cholesterol relates to hypertension (high blood pressure) and how muscle cells utilize creatine, an amino acid that plays an important role in energy consumption in muscles.

She continued her work to increase the enrolment of racial minorities in graduate science programs and medical school, and established a scholarship fund for African American science students at Queens College in her father’s name.

Christine Darden Born in 1942 in North Carolina, Christine was a skilled mathematician, data analyst and aeronautical engineer. After working at NASA for over 40 years, she became one of the world’s experts on sonic boom pre-

diction, sonic boom minimization and supersonic wing design (www.nasa.gov).

She earned a Bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a teaching certificate, before working as a teacher in Portsmouth, Virginia and at a Virginia State College. So, this is one of the names that I should have gotten and didn’t when I was quizzed by Patrick Monize. Her life was chronicled in the book “Hidden Figures,” became a “human computer” for NASA’s Langley Research Centre.

Recognizing an unhealthy balance in her work environment, she approached her supervisor and asked why men with the same level of education as she had were hired as engineers while she wasn’t.

Shortly after, she was transferred to the engineering section, where her first assignment was to write a computer program for sonic boom (https://www.nasa.gov/). She spent the next 25 years working on sonic boom minimization. In 1989 she became the technical leader of NASA’s Sonic Boom Group of the Vehicle Integration Branch of the High Speed Research Program.

Throughout her career, she also served as a technical consultant on government and private projects and authored more than 50 papers in high-lift wing design.

She continues to encourage people, including her children, her grandchildren and her great grandchildren to always be curious.

Gladys West For all my directional challenged individuals, it is imperative that you give a silent clap for Gladys West. She is the person re-

sponsible for developing the GPS technology that allows satellites to locate you anywhere on earth.

Born as Gladys Mae Brown in 1930 in Sutherland, Virginia, she was not eager to work in the tobacco fields or factories where her family worked, Instead, Gladys devoted herself to her education. She graduated as valedictorian from her high school, and won a full-ride scholarship to Virginia State College. Here she earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in mathematics by 1955.

Gladys was the second black female ever hired at a military base in Dahlgren, Virginia known as the Naval Proving Ground (now called the Naval Surface Warfare Centre). She was one of just four black employees.

She had the ability to solve complex equations longhand, and became a programmer on some of the earliest supercomputers. In the 1960s, Gladys participated in award-winning research that proved the regularity of Pluto’s orbit relative to Neptune. I now know that for every two orbits that Pluto makes around the sun, Neptune makes three.

Beginning in the 1970s, she programmed an IBM computer to precisely model the irregular shape of Earth. The data generated by West’s complex algorithms ultimately became the basis for the Global Positioning System (GPS).

Dr. Charles Drew, Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler, Marie M. Daly, Christine Darden, Gladys West; I now have five very strong reference points that I can intelligently speak about when referring to Africans in STEM. What a relief!

RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGES

WE ARE EXPERTS IN

Residential Refinance Renewal Debt Consolidation Equity Take Out (HELOC) Commercial (FINANCING) CHIP Reverse Mortgage Small Business Loans CHOOSING OPTIONS THAT PROVIDE RESULTS

DALSTON SPENCER TEL: (416)904-9597 Broker | CMBA

Broker License# 10214

34-4300 STEELES AVE. W. VAUGHAN, ONTARIO L4L 4C2

We are looking for mortgage Agents to join our team!

We provide training!

PAGE 4

NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

It’s not just about talk, it’s about solutions; Carifika Canada presents Mental Health Matters SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

“Sometimes it is overwhelming; it is like you are feeling a hundred different emotions, and being unable to deal with any of them.

Sometimes it is a silent ache. Eerily quiet; like when you are flying and your ears haven’t popped yet. The only sound you recognize is the sound of your own voice, and those thoughts frighten you to your core.

Sometimes it feels like you are trapped on a boat, surrounded by sharks.

People who are safely on the shore are offering you their best advice on how to get back, but giving advice, and being in a situation are two different things. They are not privy to your current feeling; they don’t feel the fear. They are not feeling your helplessness because they are not seeing the sharpened teeth, snapping at you as you look over the side of the boat.

“Then there are those moments when you feel like you are on fire; it is an indescribable pain. You self medicate hoping the pain will stop, but it only dulls it for a moment. This is my mental health crisis.”

(Anonymous)

The discussion surrounding African mental health has always been a little tricky to navigate. Many Africans on the continent,

and living in the diaspora are not open to acknowledging psychological problems. Our people are apprehensive about seeking professional help for mental health challenges, which is consistent with research surrounding the willingness to explore mental health services.

One of the largest scientific and professional organizations of psychologists in the America’s (American Psychological Association) is at about 121,000 members, and less than 2% of these members are Black/ African American. It is no wonder that Africans in the diaspora are worried that mental health care practitioners are not culturally competent enough to treat their specific issues.

This is one of the reasons why on Sunday, June 28th, 2020 from 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm EST, Carifika Canada will be hosting a Mental Health Town Hall Meeting featuring community mental health professionals residing in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The team at Carifika Canada understand that: cohort effects, exposure to mental illness, and increased knowledge of mental illness are factors that could potentially change beliefs about symptoms of mental illness.

I was honoured when they asked me to be a part of this town hall. What I like most about what is being prepared for the community is the fact that they have moved from just talking about mental health, to offering concrete, and practical solutions that our community can utilize.

This comprehensive and interactive town hall meeting will: •

Address what mental health is, and

• • •

•

some of the thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that accompany these thoughts and feelings.

Help members of the community identify the types of mental health challenges you might be encountering Explore PTSD due to trauma and addressing trans-generational trauma Provide solutions, which include coping mechanisms and indigenous solutions.

This will be beneficial for those who do not have access, or the funds for a therapist Understand the physical and psychological manifestation of mental health in the body

Our community is fortunate to have a dynamic group of mental health experts who will be dissecting each topic, and providing their own personal and professional insight.

I would like to introduce to you the Carifika Canada Mental Health Town Hall Meeting panel: Keith Cunningham, MSc., RP. Keith is a licensed clinical mental health and trauma specialist with the College of Registered Psychotherapist of Ontario. His expertise includes individual and family therapy to children, youth and their families across Toronto.

Kerry Wilson- Behavioural Management Consultant Former member, advocate, and mentor within the Jane and Finch community, mother to a disabled son, and the managing director of S.E.R.F, Kerry Wilson has harnessed the wisdom, insight and understanding of

culturally sensitive behavioural therapy.

With a focus on client-centered and holistic approaches to self-care, Kerry uses her knowledge base and community reach to ensure her clients achieve their personal and professional goals, while ensuring behavioural stability, family interaction, and interpersonal success.

Leo D Edwards A transplanted Grenadian, who now calls Canada home, Leo D Edwards has an impressive academic career, having received his Community Work Diploma from George Brown College, bachelors in social work (BSW), and professional certification in AntiRacist Research and Practice (CARRP) from York University, as well as a masters in social work (MSW) from the University of Toronto.

Richard Miller (Founder of Keep6ix) Richard Miller is a driven community leader, dedicated to assisting underserved youth.

After experiencing and witnessing misrepresentation, racism, corruption, and injustices experienced by black youth and minorities, Richard decided to establish Keep6ix. It is his passion to bring healing to individuals who have been through traumatic experiences, by ensuring resources and programming are available to prevent incarceration.

The hope with this mental health town hall is to let individuals know they are not alone, and that it is okay to talk about their personal challenges, and seek help.

For more information about how you can be part of this meeting, visit Carifika Canada at www.carifikacanada.org

153

1867

2020

2020

Sonia Sidhu 905.846.0076 | soniasidhu.libparl.ca sonia.sidhu@parl.gc.ca

24 Queen Street East, Suite 600 Brampton, Ontario

Search @SoniaSidhu

NEWS

Wednesday, June 24, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 5

So many challenges, and so much to endure - Young people speak on COVID-19 experiences JONELL PANTLITZ jonell@carib101.com

TC JR. REPORTER

As a community newspaper, we are concerned with what is happening in our community, and we are determined to stay connected with everyone on all levels. This is why we understand that change affects young people in many ways and every person has a different story. I was asked to tell some of those stories.

From my personal experience, there are ups and downs with everything that is happening. Being a black student in a time like this has been hard, but also powerful. Having a voice is one thing, but using it is an amazing feeling. Being a part of something historical is a pleasure that cannot be explained.

Apart from that, isolated learning has been difficult. Many days, I didn’t open my laptop. I didn’t have the will power to do anything. It’s a good thing that slacking off didn’t stop me from meeting deadlines.

This online shift overall has given me a lot of free time that I had no clue what to do with it. I don’t think we realize as students how much of our life is spent in a school.

With the free time: I started trading, I joined a lot of online workshops, and I am more aware of my mental health. I spoke to some other young people my age, and after sharing my stories, I asked a simple question, what about you?

Kaysia (High School-Graduate) Not everyone has the ability to adapt to a new environment as quickly as some do.

Many of us get depressed easily. We have more anxiety attacks than we used to, and even feel socially drained most days.

We encounter so many challenges and endure so much pressure. Truth be told; it’s hard to actually accept reality most times. It’s hard to live in the moment and pretend that it’s only a matter of time before things get better. So I say this to say that change really has a positive impact on teens as well as it has its negative.

We have more distractions at home than if we were actually supervised

while sitting in a classroom. Many have the mind-set of “I’m home, so I don’t really have to do the work because no one is there to see to it that I do.� Some youths understand a lesson better by: hearing the instructor’s way of explaining, being given the chance to participate in class discussions and being present. I believe that there is more school-related work being issued online than when we were in an actual classroom.

Online classes have also affected study patterns in more ways than one.

From experience, it’s tiring to be staring at the screen for so many hours. Every day is just another day for children going to school during this pandemic. They don’t see the need to be revising notes again because everything is just being projected online.

Anushka (University-student) I had to leave my apartment closer to my University and return to my family home which was probably the most negative part of my experience. I think the events in the world have mentally affected me more than physically - the realization that the world can easily shut down. Isolated education worked just like any online class, with the exception of being able to go discuss your concerns with your professor face to face. At first, I did not want to study at all. It was difficult to get my mind in that place. I eventually developed a schedule, but it still was not the best experience. I think the quality of my work was also affected.

My younger siblings’ (who I try to help) biggest difficulty is getting them to find the willingness to work.

Shaina (High School-Graduate) In my opinion, change doesn’t have much affect on the younger generation because we tend to adjust to situations quicker than the older generation may have. That being said, distance learning and in school learning are two different things because we as students do not get one on one time with teachers, which means it may be a bit more difficult for some students to reach an understanding. With studies online, most of us tend to stop caring and to start losing focus on our studies.

The best way to learn about the experiences of young people is to actually talk to us. I hope that this has been an eye opener. We are all in this together

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

Andrew Stewart FAMILY INSURANCE andrew@carib101.com

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

ADVERTISING MANAGER Trish Browning trish@carib101.com

ARY 10TH

VOLUME

6 • ISSUE

JANU ESDAY, 23 • WEDN

NG EVERYTHI

2018

TO ADVE

RTISE: 647-72

2-6298

EVERYTHIN G

EVERYTHING YOU NEED IN ONE NEWSPAPER

TOCaribNews Reporters & Sales Representatives on Location in:

challenging only for the most • PRIVATE •MORTGA MORTGAGES ED AND MORE! IN 1st & 2nd • SELF EMPLOY SPECIALIZING• NEW TO CANADA 17 2019 REFINANCES SDAY, APRIL • WEDNE • ISSUE 5 VOLUME 8 Agent |

Broker Financial

CALLAPER ME TODAY! NEWSP I CAN HELP!

VOLUME 6

Group 12619

2019

IN ONE

416-875-4A REALITY! www.

I CANYOU HELP MAKE YOUR DREAMS 523 charlecharle s@bfgsayodele.ca

REALITY

s, and it’s ANCES IN 1st & 2nd especially of your mortgage, • NEW TO MOR then that our I can do for services are free.

CANADA TGAGES • you what PRIVATE • SELF EMPL the banks cannot.�

OYED •MORTGAGES AND MOR E!

• ISSUE 15 • WEDNES

POWERED

!

BY

VOLU DAY,ME SEPTEMBER 8 • ISSU20TH 2017 E2 • WEDNESD AY, MAR CH 6 2019 EVERYTHING TO ADVE YOU NEED EVE INRYT RTISE: ONE ISE: 647-722-6 SPECIALIZING IN 1st & 2nd MORTGAGES • PRIVATE MORTGAGES NEWSPAPER HING TO 647-722-62 298 • ONLINE: YOU NEE REFINANCES • NEW TO CANADA • SELF EMPLOYED • AND MORE! le.ca TORONT 98 • PER OCARIBB D IN ONE a www.charlesayode ONLI EAN.COM NE: TORO NEWSPA charles@bfgbroker.c NEWSPA NTOCARIB IN ONE PER NEED BEAN.COM VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3 2019 HING YOU RYT .COM EVE RIBBEAN ONTOCA TOR Mortgage Agent | Broker Financial Group 12619 INE: ONL 98 • CALL ME TODAY! EVERYTHING YOU NEED IN ONE NEWSPAPER 647-722-62 I CAN HELP! ERTISE: TO ADV www.charlesayodele.ca TO ADVERTISE: 647-722-6298 • ONLINE: TORONTOCARIBBEAN.COM charles@bfgbroker.ca Mortgage Agent

Group 12619

NEED IN ONE

SOCIAL LOVE AND STATUS HEARTS THING EVERY 2019 ARY 9

AY, JANU

WEDNESD

• E 24 7 • ISSU ISE: 647-722-6298 416-875-4523 ADVERT VOLUME

| Broker Financial

CALL ME TODAY! I CAN HELP!

COM broke “I work for you, not the banks!

From first consultation to the signing ofr.ca your mortgage, our services are free.

BBEAN. TOCARI A fee is charged only for the most challenging credit solutions, and it’s especially then that I can do for you what the banks cannot.�

: TORON • ONLINE

TO ADVERT

POWERED BY

CHARLES AYODELE

416-875-4523

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.

CHARLE S AYODEL E

Mortgage

CHARLESE AYODEL

YOU NEED

NEWSPAPE TORONTOC I CA R ARIBBEAN.C N HELP OM MAKE “I work for A fee is charged you, YO only for the not the banks! most challen From first consult UR DR SPECIALIZ EAMS A ging credit ation to the solution ING signing REFIN

• ONLIN E:

POWERED BY

A fee is charged

WE’RE PROUD SUPPORTERS OF:

8 • ISSUE 1 • WEDN ESDAY, FEBRU

ARY 20

.COM ARIBBEAN TORONTOC A REAfree.LITY! ONLINE: R DREAMS 98 • E our services are banks cannot.�

YOUto the signing of your mortgage, the MAK : 647-722-62 do for you what RTISE HELP then that I can From first consultation I CAN not the banks! credit solutions, and it’s especially “I work for you, GES

TO ADVE

VOLUME

ER

NEWSPAP

D IN ONE

YOU NEE

HELCPLIN

R WKH H DQG LV RSHQ W XU EXVLQHVV WUHSUHQH LQJ IRU HYHU\RQ DWLRQ VRPHWKLove is UH DQ HQ ,I \RX D ÀOLDWHG RUJDQL] JUHDW an emotio VLQHVV 6RFLDO - SXEOLF XQLW\ DI and H VRPH XFn that Valentin U FRPP we all feel, Conven e’s WR PDN EAN K DQQXDO 7& %X RZQHU R H WR EH Day is aODQ IRU V brate Pearson it. The KH SODF day to cele- is completely ONTO CARIBB heartH \RXU S WR DWWHQG WKH W2018 at the FRQWLQX WKLV LV W symbol ANESHA PREMRA non-pro HVV LRQV DQG payroll for of love, is the interna MAHADEO/TOR As with every new on May 6th,in Brampton! & %XVLQtional FRQQHFW the TC Busidren J/TORONTO and there this charity.fit; there is no ALYSSA spend in the Caribbe

EXVLfunds LRQ its 4th year, CARIBBEAN are IRU O RI WKH 7 for new goals? many of us DQG tion Center 100% of serious chil- helpingraised by this Now in FUHDWHG WR SURYLGHnity to FHVV LQ an IRXQGDW 7KH JRD exthat have heart issues.

VWURQJ the manythe foundation.

New year,rolls around, charity goes neurs to SURZDV \HDU JRQH us. very get children FUHDWH D entrepre an opportu PL]H a baby Imagine LV WR with before RU in the Caribbe to that fun activities The Gala had year that the help QHVV 6RFLDO ionals with J RQ DQRWKHU HOS RSWL an 6RFLDO aand very serious sue, but one set FXUUHQW having such as was full they need. is s owners full of volunte not having an WLPH UHĂ HFWLQof the new most of this year, ness profess WHFKQLTXHV WR K of a heartLQJV K RQ WKHLU through This eventSDWURQV busines is- persona UDVS LOOV DQG the RFLDO EU ers that The team is about the TCCF donated gifts, a raffle V 7KH 6 RU HVWDEOLV the surgery the promise to make the WKH potential!

SDQG YHQWXUH , it means XQLW\¡V PRVW entine’s quiz that gave ly heartbr WKHU FKDQFH WR JV DQG OHDUQ VN go children l time to help dedicate their XVLQHVV business EULQJ WRJHWKHU FRPPXQLW\ MHFWHG E H FRPP must beWR toVKDUH We resolve H RI DQR eaking U GUHDP their ensure that VW RI WK WR a DJ to Day chocolate and away Vala DWHVW cialized ULHV WKH of the founda experie RI QLW\ YLVLRQD This is what nce.FH WKH OtruWDNLQJ DGYDQWDJQLWLHV FKDVH RX DERXW WKHLU WRJHWKHU WKH EH RZQHUV tion get the event wasdance the night of course medical FUHDWLYH LQWURGX two RSSRUWX LYH Founda EXVLQHVV HGXFDWH RWKHUV WKH\ RI- Childre The Caribbe spe- well-dre full of genero away. This care as PLVVHG RSSRUWX H[SHULHQFHV SURGXFWn’s LFHV DQG WKH EXVLQHVV possible. for many, ROG DQG DQG quickly tionR NHHS DQG temptin us, extrem ssed people QHWZRUN SURGXFWV DQG VHUYLFHV (TCCF) is an HPEDUN RQ QHZ as to suppor to help WKHLU EHgVW SUDFW Q KRZ W LQQRYDWLYH On Saturda Unfortunately DFN WR RXU VDPHR UH- WR ely DO at- 5 WKH

solve.

PHQWV R W Z DQG t the cause.who were proud ULJKW E V QRW GLIÀFXOW W This LQGLYLGX DOVR VKDULQJ y, Februar DFKLHYH KHU JUR G FXUUHQ ed On Page TCCF hosted y ZKLOH Continu cause that celebra a Valentin ZHHNV LQ ZH¡UH W LW¡V DQRWKHU DW WKH\ FDQ IXUW RUH EXVLQHVV PRGHO IUHVK DQ e’s Day 9th, FWLYH KDELWV ,W¡ XJK IHU ted love XQSURGX VWDUW D \HDU VWURQJ EX XQLTXH ZD\V WKUDQG WR EULQJ P and raised Gala Continued DOO\ IROORZ WKUR LV FRPfunds VROYH WR OWRJHWKHU WR DFWX HQW WR DFKLHYH WKRVH H[SDQG WKHLU E On Page 6RFLDO V QJ 7 way. %XVLQHV RQH SURYLGL PDWWHU D RPPLWP DNH their 7KH 7& Virtual Tours DQG PDNH WKDW F HYHQWV LQ

and High Quality RLQJ WR GR WR P KABRENA URQWR SULVHG RI WZR Down payment ROBINSON/T JRDOV :KDW DUH \RX J HD Photos toORONTO Loans - Cash 6SULQJ WKH 7R Attract moreCARIBBEAN In Jamaica, invites you

QW" 7KLV Back y It isBuyers a centralMortgage formall Offers* not a coinci and popular that “education WKLV \HDU GLIIHUH ONTO CARIBBEAN belief Newspaper March is tise�. dence it all starts at is the key to tans Caribbean 2nd, SIMONE SMITH/TOR that Saturd and 2019, the y Inc success� of Regga Realelementary was child’s On declar First & Second Estate Agent ay, Canad stages Friday, September life. Fraternit overwhelme Alpha of day However, a e Phi 87th 647-8 foundation Day; it hosted ed Tithat hundr 16tha. Saturd their with factors dave@seinadequate Mortgages the Alpha 67-78 the foundation d by the ongoing Equity was also hosting their 12thmemo resources archreal as draising on from such 09 eds ofgala ay night has been receivingsupport to facilitate annualration the across Delta Sigma – as they were ty.ca in educational the Loans fun- community SIMON |Conventi on the grounds dave.sea students regga the House Regional institutions, was the the sisters of E SMITH/from $5000 of great over from the Club rn GTAinfilled rchrealty e fans sentin of Donalda a comthe dream in edXFDWLRQDO IXO Toronto. Hosted g the past, and the brothin Toronto.

Debt years.

TORON downNathan g nized by .co of time artists - $500,000 Ă€OOPHQW FDQ the Opera by of town Toron and has Consolidation “I TO CARIBB thisebrate Sorority Inc.,Alpha Fraternity Midweste regga CP24 am still , reprepresen Downer, the Onefirst anchor always happenin 50 VillageEH HDVLO\ GHW to this day organization e. for the very journe collaborated HUUHG what Phi popul EAN t, accomplishe did not know, it is no Theta to,the Centre amazed can be and future is little Home cornu bit fostering who y ofofone to event Pl Suite ar100 at With so much an liveofauctions, Mississaug cel- featured a much-needgenre ning ers of Alpha a mandate Refina copia For those ed city of Toronto, Regga to improve a, ON Titans t eve- together with like-mindedd when looking ncelines. we the mostentertainmen of music oratio comeof discip L4Z e. RootesĂ€QH artists wasacross GLQLQJ inWRSSHG &with childhood in the great there are some events Inc. ted event weekend tion Home of and nsor Good had visitors in a educaReggaa epassion to support individuals includ we island. neigh1V9 Purcha the ZLWK -DPDLFDQ orchestrate in the His collab Lesse Than with This coordina d, or unatreggae borhood,dand Hotels by like Caribana, asThethe se wonder that FXLVLQH working was an The only those inMolly musicworld Johns Eglint Delta unnotice ; BEAN positions,â€?

U.S.A. in scene d Toless the go Good an Craig, Helping the at event at fortunate on and exquisite vibe incred and of on the withCredit CARIB & Conferhe said. ibly re- Jamaica blossomed ambiance. a wave Hands Foundation seeks that may his Mortgage Agent island Toronto TheWest Found artists took place ONTO uon Airport from all parts is why the team event brought of Culcha er andput

by Andre we have such License lanthropists, Musical considerableWynton Marsa Helping LL/TOR regga in the 1970s #12275 out hwork a contin sactivi- other time the that Hands tended. This n Newspaper takes phi- Jamaican next generationto “improve the of entrepreneur s visiting Artisti CASSE Toronto Marriot e multilives w Jamaica Direct weekend NATA lis, reputa their Theis our LQVLGH cWKH elder bersimmig tions started ofisJamaicans A-KAY of American s. Andre on and after a s and Direct other all of the LYAhim home of of the community in or ties tion as communities &RQVXO Centre.

12th and instru memronto Caribbea during and includ TONE April of encecipati or *HQHUDO herefoundation’s Anne their sFriday, w Craig menta sift through SHAUN bytime in ducer, Marie CALL ing OR creating ute to2IĂ€FH for our April cord amount supportdirect Y c-a to produ same unique in Toron rants on t Bonner RI made effort the education list, Harbo of a at began the time tofind the novel,ay our eman world-class the continued Quinc after is natalya@lend Sunday, TEXT ties fough system born in vocali a es Hale, who to, Ontar cause urfront’s onthis our cityfrastructure, caster who or, compo counof the who . through Page y Jones lives through Falmouth morefinancia was st, pro5 in for Nelson to deliver weekendresource Jamaica, in io, to of “building noise and educationâ€?. a holid , two l.ca416-83 us occasion Caribana 7-5460 tors ended tribOn investment events officially conceptser, | www.lendmo has had ion g as inintroduced , ances da ation and broad to support Centre momento Founder Continued materials, a Mandela perfor compellin weekend was aLee Epsilon his homeland. lished ity.

Karen III, the great It inclus manc-refinancial.ca and exper- maica, President of Helpingwork in multip andestab This 14th.

- OMNI , and music at of Sigma iaity and zaa and tt commun Maulana Kwan Karl Hale expressed Hands Jale music fortun brothers equalsays zaa Assoc Continued Television.

Dewi with activity, compothe Rogers to our Chapter im- of e was first for the is re, On

by Dr.was robust Kwan rnia. it to Page al Toronto es sition that he is 7 genres ian SIMONE SMITH/TORONTO CARIBBEAN - the ians, try,� Lambda ly invited n cultu s for Toronto in 1966, eorgand, CalifoAfrica personal 0 & Second Mortgag our own Virtual the Canad n Canad

TOARTOESNTO HTAHN ASGH OF EDTSITANS BRKEOVER ETA L E C A D CANA SCARBOROUGH A A KWANZREPRESENTING BUY - SEL

WITH CONL - INVEST FIDENCE

DAVE JOH

NSON

Powered DLC BedrockFinancial by Lic 12275

Group

BUY - SEL

WITH CONL - INV FIDENCEST E

iCanad cel- in Oakla of ili phras the Ice, - $500,00 2019, the ToursFirst Africa buildingtraditions andd we in were a weekend and Highfilled with $5000 Swah har- For from Down payment ry 1st, iation (CKA) been cooks from all “As myto rice burning, Quality tion. begin frican Loans to doors in 2004, Proper Television – have from&a of the andtoo much attend Fire HD Photos Equity nt overcooking On Januazaa Assoc the Pan-ASquare is roote ation fruits was meant salt ofLoans life.- Cash This year – along derived using, friends out who is the producer behind MAS- all walks to Attract porta customs a found ation Back asizedTERCHEF CANADA – has become with our more Buyers raltime Mortgag an Kwan Consolid gives ing, “first vance ora in the-there, Kwanzaa,n Philips mak- and to be local celebrithe come for anothemph cultu Debtsoon e Offers*Purchase zaahas ebrated e & Home n diaspns) recon er round at Natha first time; ama- mean The obser journey‌â€? CANADA! one of Canada’s most successful ty- stands an:Refinanc and Kwan international figure of MASTERCHEF that holiday, to for the ian procl a’s vest.â€? the Africa Credit re. The begin favorite 7 a cyber security analyst, a companies. They have skater,Home Real culinary competiGood (pan Africa Canad lit to help Estate Than Page production n Cultu by panCanada’s in Toron Less 647-or first Canad Agent icas or more Lee. week in car search salesman, and an entrepreneur. tionOffers* is inBuyers their 6th season, andOn they strategically worked across a wide dave@ Good 867to Attract rated - Amer to their Africa HD Photos ing it theKwanzaa to 3D Sign com7809 Continued High Quality Back Mortgage andceleb they will be competing for , repre return with a two-hour premiere range of genres, and are respon- This yearrealty. ca | dave.s now Tours - Cash to world isDown Virtual tion for , and s TONEY The Toron green seven nect ay payment earchr d theLoans YAtitleholda,000 chance to beNATAL one of six of reality, on in April 8th, broadcasting on CTV. sible for over 600dhours ealty.co history.red, black and of the cer- holid ns aroun y, community Mortgage zaa MASTERCHEF 416-837-5460 ng nancial.ca - $500ers and take home the TEXT $100,000 documentary 0proAfrica in CANADA has landed lifestyle, &and -day famil 50 Village lighti OR g KwanRealssing up Estate Agent CALL Centre Pl | www.lendmorefi refinancial.ca g the g the seven ber 26th memorate First Secons from $500 Mississauga, Mortgage Agent cash prize. two nominations for the 2019 Can- gramming. natalya@lendmo Suite “Celebratins of expre sentines durin Decem License #12275 ON Page y Loan L4Z 1V9 5100 culture.a is a mean Continued On This season, over ada Screen Awards including “Best candl y held from Equit ase hrealty.co 647-867-7809 lidation a thouthe 52ndit Canad Reality/Competition Series.â€? It is no sand promising | dave.searc emon ary 1st.

Home Purch ce bt Conso chefs auditioned chrealty.ca marks

- INVEEST BUY - SELL CONFIDENC WITH

DAVE JOH

NSON

SON

DAVE JOHN

Powered by

DLC BedrockFinancial Lic 12275

Group

Continued On

Page 5

YOU ONLY NEED A DAY TO MAKE A FEW MINUTES A LIVING WITH STEP BY STEP

First & Secon

Equity Loan d Mortgages MENTORING AND YOU’LL BE ABLE THE USE OF A TO TRADE IN THE s from SMARTPHONE, Debt NO EXPERIENCE FOREIGN EXCHANGE Consolidati $5000 - $500 NEEDED. MARKET, ,000 LEARN FROM 10

YEAR INDUSTR

Home Refin

ance

on

TAKE-OUT • DELIVERY • CATERNOW YOU CAN ORDER A DRINK WITH YOUR TAKE-OUT!

DOUBLES TAKE-HOME KITS

BUILD IT YOURSELF! TAMARIND CHUTNEY, MANGO CHUTNEY, 5 PACK $12 | 10 PACK $23 INCLUDES: BANDANIA CHUTNEY, PEPPER SAUCE, CUCUMBER TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY

PEPPER ROTI AVAILABLE

BY ORDER

RICE OR ROTI

BONE CHICKEN, CHANNA & ALOO, BONE GOAT THURSDAY

RICE OR ROTI + POP BONE CHICKEN, CHANNA & ALOO, BONE GOAT

4 49 6

BRAMPTON LOCATION 263 Queen Street East Unit #2, Monday - Friday 10:00am to 8:00pm Brampton, Ontario, Canada Saturday 9:30am to 8:00pm Telephone:905 487 0888 Sunday 9:30am to 6:00pm

49

TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY

RICE OR ROTI

BONELESS CHICKEN, BONELESS GOAT, DUCK OR SHRIMP

THURSDAY

RICE OR ROTI + POP

BONELESS CHICKEN, BONELESS GOAT, DUCK OR SHRIMP

5 49 7 49

CHECK US OUT ONLINE www.Radicas.com

INSTAGRAM: RadicasHotAndSpicy_Brampton FACEBOOK: Radica’s Hot & Spicy

MISSISSAUGA LOCATION SPECIAL TUESDAY TO THURSDAY From 10:00am to 3:00pm MINI BONELESS CHICKEN OR GOAT WITH RICE OR ROTI

INCLUDES A CAN OF POP OR WATER

7

49

CHECK US OUT ONLINE www.Radicas.com ON INSTAGRAM: RadicasHotNSpicy ON FACEBOOK: Radica’s Hot & Spicy Mississauga

MISSISSAUGA LOCATION 3105 Winston Churchill Blvd #3, Monday - Saturday 10:00am - 8:00pm Mississauga, ON L5L 1P5 Sunday - Closed Telephone: 905 997 8119

Wednesday, June 24, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

Photo Credit Caribbean Tales

CaribbeanTales International Film Festival celebrating its 15th year anniversary virtually SELINA McCALLUM salina@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The coronavirus has interrupted many events this summer and forced organizers to adapt to the new rules of social distancing.

Many events have moved online, and recently the CaribbeanTales Film Festival (CTFF) has also done the same as it will be celebrating 15 years of talented, established and emerging filmmakers of Caribbean heritage.

Diana Webley is this year’s Festival Director for the 2020 CaribbeanTales International Film Festival. For the past two years she has served as Associate Festival Director for CTFF. She has been working at Harbourfront Centre for 15 years as a Senior Producer and Artistic Associate responsible for daily operational aspects and programming themes for their year-round festival and event season.

Webley talks about what movie lovers can look forward to at this year’s virtual event.

“We have a jam packed line up of eight nights of film. It is loaded with Caribbean content and stories to share that are definitely resonating with what’s happening right now outside our window. I think that these stories are going to mean so much more to everyone,” said Webley.

The Festival Director speaks on the festival having more of an international reach this year.

“We have a night that’s looking to truth to power. It’s an activism night. We have films from the states, Trinidad, and Jamaica that are featured on that night, and I feel that we are going to reach a wider audience now that we’re virtual. We can open the doors to others, friends of the Caribbeans,” said Webley. “I’m truly happy in one way being able to reach more people.”

CTFF will be announcing its 2020 livestream programming on Wednesday, July 8th at 7 p.m. on the CaribbeanTales-TV (CT-TV) online platform.

The international film festival will run from September 9th to October 22nd

CT-TV.

CaribbeanTales-TV.com is an innovative digital streaming, subscription video-on-demand platform that provides access to over 300 culturally diverse films and TV programs, from the Caribbean and its wide diaspora. New films are added monthly.

The evening’s festivities will include special congratulatory messages, a retrospect of CTFF’s history and the cast talkback and screening of CTFF founder Frances-Anne Solomon’s award-winning film Hero: Inspired by the Extraordinary Life and Times of Mr. Ulric Cross.

The film has garnered several awards including: TTFF 2018 People’s Choice Award, 2019 AMAA Award for Best Diaspora Narrative Feature and the Ja’Net Feature Narrative Award from the Pan African Film Festival where it was the Opening Night film.

CaribbeanTales was pleased to announce their latest feature, CT-TV Live Events, which will include masterclasses, webinars, watch parties and screenings featuring conversations with filmmakers from around the world. Events will screen live and also be available to watch later on.

“Everybody has Youtube and Zoom, but we have our own video on-demand platform that has been in existence since 2013, and now we’re about to use it for this platform that we probably never thought that we should have to do before this pandemic,” said Webley. “I’m excited to launch our CaribbeanTales TV.”

Webley speaks on the impact the livestream events will have for CaribbeanTales.

“CaribbeanTales has been around so long that possibly only the Caribbean community knows about it. The outreach and impact will be tremendous from being online, especially if we’re able to geo-map where directors want their films to go. For example, we have a film that is done by a Japanese, Caribbean and Cuban filmmaker that definitely wants the world to see their work, and what they’re doing,” said Webley. “This could offer the opportunity for the festival to be outside and online in the future.”

Webley breaks down what CaribbeanTales means to her.

“To me, CaribbeanTales means continuing the legacy by sharing our stories through film and raising a glass to our stories. It means allowing our stories to live on for the next generation,” said Webley.

NEWS

PAGE 7

PAGE 8

NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Is Global Surveillance a thing of the Future?

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Continued From Page 1 -- Let’s take a step back for a moment, and revisit two movies that now seem way before their time; or were they.

The Manchurian Candidate (2004) This update to the original movie stars Denzel Washington, who plays Captain Ben Marco. He suffers extreme trauma during his time in the first Gulf War, and when he returns home, life for him is never the same. He is haunted by dreams of what did happen, or what didn’t happen during the war. As Marco investigates, he discovers an implant in his back. After having the implant analysed, Marco realizes that it is a Nano technological experiment connected with Manchurian Global, a powerful private equity firm with major political connections.

Enemy of the State (1998) This movie stars Will Smith as a Washington, D.C., lawyer whose life is dismantled bit by bit because he possesses proof that a congressman was murdered for opposing a bill that would make government snooping easier. For some reason, in 1998, they are already talking about “the surveillance society,” an America in which underground computers at Fort Meade monitor our phone calls for trigger words like “bomb,” “president” and “Allah.”

I shine a light on these movies because long before COVID-19, talks about our privacy being infringed was already a discussion, and most recently, this rhetoric is being revisited, but this time it is being discussed in the terms of public safety.

“What rights do you give up, when it comes to public health safety?”

I was introduced to a video where a young American woman was sharing her experience with getting her contact-tracing certificate. In the video, certain words stuck out to me: TESTING, TRACING, AND TREATMENT. It was for these reasons that contact tracing has taken precedence in the fight against COVID-19.

Well, what is contact tracing? This is technology that will allow health officials to notify you if you get a test that is positive

for COVID-19. Most COVID-19 contact-tracing apps use Bluetooth signal strength to infer distance between smartphones and define exposure status based on distance from, and duration of proximity to, an individual subsequently identified as infected.

Some of these apps have already been released in Alberta, Australia and Singapore using a framework developed by Singapore’s Government Technology Agency.

Once you have been told that you are at risk of having COVID-19, you are forwarded to a tracer, and that tracer will do some research on you, and give you a call. They will tell you that you need to be isolated for a minimum of 10 days. You will have to show visible evidence that you are isolated, meaning that no one can be in the place you are staying.

If you are quarantined, you must be by yourself for 14 days. A contact tracer will provide you with any social services needed. This means you can’t go shopping, and in some cases, they will even remove children from your home. You can’t be in contact with anyone, even if you are totally healthy.

The trained contact tracer will ask you questions like, “Whom did you come in contact with.” They will instruct you to look at your phone and open your social media so they can see who you have been around.

You can keep getting quarantined again, and again, and again She also introduced a Voluntary Quarantine Form, and in the form, they state that if you do not comply with the request, they may use a detention order, enforced by the police. I found this odd, because if the form is supposed to be voluntary, why is it being enforced?

In America, there is now widespread sharing of information between law enforcement and medical practitioners, all because of COVID-19. It has come to the point where businesses will be taking your information in case, they must contact you if someone was infected. Why? Well so you can quarantine, even if you did not contract COVID-19.

America appears to be following China and Korea, who have a centralized data system, and people are tracked using GPS. In India, they released a contact tracing app that they say is voluntary, and citizens were told that they did not need to download. Only issue, if you want to go anywhere (travel, work, stores, train), you must show the app, showing that you are not infected. This means that you can’t do anything unless you have this app. Aarogya Setu, which means “bridge to health” in Sanskrit - was launched just nine weeks

ago. In New Zealand, you must scan your QR code to do anything.

What does this all mean? It means that the nations are able to enforce contact tracing without military, or police presence.

Now let’s return to that microchip piece. In an interview with Jay Walker, CEO of Apiject Systems, CBN news highlighted the company, which is now in a $138 million public-private partnership with the White House for a project called Project Jumpstart. They are currently innovating a way to deliver millions of vaccines to Americans using eye drop technology, and potentially using RFID chips on a voluntary basis to track vaccine use. This will all be to aid public health officials in case there are future outbreaks.

In his interview Jay stated that the technology has the capability to utilize RFID chips that are connected to the dosage amount. He claims that there is no personal information on the chip, just information on the dosage. It is for health officials to analyse where a vaccine is most needed in an area. The US has not decided if they want to turn on that technology as of yet. In some states, they are actually stating that if you refuse vaccination, they can bring you to your doctor, and plunge a need in your arm. Their words, not mine.

CBS This Morning did a story “Technology Implants; Microchip could improve lives but cost our privacy.” The story shone light on some compelling facts. One being that every time you use the chip, it leaves a digital footprint, which can cost you your privacy. Although some businesses in Sweden have implemented the use of microchips, it is hard not to be weary of a non-stop, potential connection to your body that cannot be turned off. “It is very easy to hack a chip implant,” the interviewed bio hacker warned, “Do not put too much personal information on this chip.”

Mr Bill Gates was back in the news a few weeks back when he mentioned the possibility of having a “digital certificate” for health records “eventually,” but he did not say these certificates would be “microchip implants.”

When asked about the claim, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation told Reuters, “The reference to ‘digital certificates’ relates to efforts to create an open source digital platform with the goal of expanding access to safe, home-based testing.” A Digital certificate is further described as an “electronic document” used to identify an individual and associate the identity with a public key. Like a driver’s license or a passport, it provides proof of a person’s identity.

Let’s take this a step further. The

Greater Game India did an article titled “COVI PASS – UK Introduces Biometric RFID Enabled Coronavirus Digital Health Passports. The article reports on the UK government’s preparation for the rollout of COVI PASS – Biometric RFID enabled Coronavirus Digital Health Passports to monitor nearly every aspect of citizens’ lives in the name of strengthening public health management. The COVI-PASS website bills this piece of technology as “the World’s most secure Digital Health Passport.”

Exposed in this article is also a plan to chip the human race through the digital identification program ID2020, which was exposed in the Italian parliament by Sara Cunial, the Member of Parliament for Rome.

As countries continue to implement digital tracing technology, privacy and surveillance experts have shown their hesitance, warning that any digital data collection should include a sunset clause, which means that there is a specific date that data will no longer be collected. Also, the data collected must only be in relation to the coronavirus pandemic and must be deleted when it is no longer needed.

Now, what does this have to do with us, the great people of Ontario Canada?

Well, the Ontario government has launched a new contact tracing strategy that will help prepare for a potential second wave of Covid-19 this fall.

How are they going to do this?

Part of the strategy includes a mobile app that will use Bluetooth technology to notify other users if they have come in contact with someone who tested positive for the novel coronavirus. It will also allow users to contact their local public health unit by using a form through the app.

Last Thursday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau informed Ontarians that we would be the first province to test the tool.

The use of the app is completely voluntary, and eventually, it will be implemented nationwide. Prime Minister Trudeau is encouraging Canadians to download this app on their cell phones.

“It will be up to individual Canadians to decide whether to download the app or not, but the app will be most effective when as many people as possible have it.”

The app will be available to download on July 2nd, 2020, and officials have stressed that the mobile app will not collect personal data or health information from its users.

There is more to come, and I hope that our community will continue to do their research. Change is coming, whether we like it or not.

-ROTI & DOUBLES-

Leela’s Roti and Doubles, Always Served Fresh and Spicy

ORDER ONLINE: www.LeelasRoti.com ROTI/RICE SPECIAL

Boneless Chicken, Boneless Goat, Leela’s Butter Chicken, Jerk Chicken, or Curry Channa & Potato

Jerk Chicken Rice & Peas

7

00

Available until 3pm Price Increases to $8.99 After 3:00PM

799

TRINI PELAU

WEEKDAY SPECIAL

JERK CHICKEN LUNCH SPECIAL

Stew Chicken with Macaroni Pie and Side of Red Beans or Calalloo

1199

Trini Pelau served with Potato Salad.

Available Friday and Saturday only.

12 99

*Prices are subject to change without notice

CURRY FISH $13.99 - WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY & SATURDAY VEGGIE PLATTER $12.99 CHOICE OF 4 VEGGIES WITH RICE OR ROTI Curry Channa & Aloo, Curry Aloo, Curry Seim, Baigan Choka, Pumpkin, Bhaji, Fried Okra, Fried Bodi, Fried Carile, Tomato Choka, Eddoes Choka, Tomato & Saltfish, Salt Fish, Smoked Herring, Curry Baigan and Fried Aloo

ALSO AVAILABLE FOR DELIVERY THROUGH

Hiring Full-Time and Part-Time for Kitchen Staff and Servers | INSTAGRAM: leelasroti_scarborough MON-THURS: 10:30AM - 8PM 2573 Victoria Park Ave. FRI: 10:30AM - 9PM | SAT: 10AM - 8PM Scarborough, ON M1T 1A4 SUNDAY: CLOSED Corner of Victoria Park & Sheppard Ave, MINUTES away from HWY 401 and HWY 404 -ROTI & DOUBLES-

TEL: 416-792-5757

TUES - WED ROTI/RICE SPECIALS Bone/Boneless Chicken, Bone Goat, Boneless Goat, Shrimp, Stew Chicken, Potato & Channa

600

THURS - FRI ROTI/RICE SPECIALS Bone/Boneless Chicken, Bone Goat, Boneless Goat, Shrimp, Stew Chicken, Potato & Channa

700

WEEKDAY JERK CHICKEN SPECIAL Jerk Chicken Rice & Peas or Roti Wrap Available until 3pm

799

ALL DAY, EVERY DAY VEGGIE PLATTER $12.99 CHOICE OF 4 VEGGIES

Curry Channa & Aloo, Curry Aloo, Curry Channa, Baigan Choka, Tomatoes Choka, Pumpkin, Bhaji, Dhal, Eddoes Choka, Fried Okra, Fried Bodi, Curry Seim, Fried Aloo, Tomatoes & Saltfish, Saltfish, Smoked Herring, *Curry Chataigne (Katahar) available at an up charge

TAKE-OUT PLEASE CALL AHEAD 905-232-9070 | 900 Rathburn Road West Mississauga, ON L5C 4L3 -ROTI & DOUBLES-

1 light south of HWY 403, minutes from Square one Mall

TUES-FRI: 11AM - 7PM | SAT: 9AM - 7PM SUN: 9AM - 5PM | MONDAY: CLOSED

TEL: 905-232-9070

PAGE 10

NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

NIA Centre encourages Toronto artists to ‘Keep that Energy’ SELINA McCALLUM salina@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The NIA Centre for the Arts is a Torontobased charitable organization that supports, showcases and promotes an appreciation of arts from across the Afro-Diaspora. In Swahili, Nia means purpose.

The organization released a oneand-a-half-minute video on their social media at the end of May, which celebrates all artists and highlights a few black artists that the NIA Centre has worked with. The video was made in collaboration with Pique Studios.

“You inspire more people than you realize. And during these times, we look to you for hope,” said the narrator in the beginning of the video.

Shots of artists singing, dancing, editing and playing instruments at home flash on the screen as the narrator continues to speak about creating or not creating in these uncertain times.

“Those who are creating, and those who aren’t. Those who are surviving, thriv-

ing, or just getting by,” says the narrator.

Alica Hall, the Executive Director of the NIA Centre, is responsible for the overall organization and projects.

“It was in early April that we started to think about doing something. We know that artists are already vulnerable given the unpredictable nature of the creative industry. They’re usually unemployed and doing precarious jobs or working really hard to make ends meet in order to also fund and support their careers as artists,” said Hall.

“So, artists have been particularly hard hit.

We were really hearing from folks about the sense of loss.”

The NIA Centre is committed to connecting community members to artistic and cultural experiences all year.

It was initially funded through the Youth Challenge Fund in 2008 to address the roots of youth violence and disengagement.

Since then, NIA Centre has connected thousands of young people and emerging youth artists to mentors and opportunities in art and employment. The Centre has offered programs in music, spoken word, literature, visual arts, theatre, dance and interdisciplinary arts often in partnership with artists and arts organizations.

“We are consistently raising awareness that we’re creating a space for black people to gather, experiment art and reflect with our community and on our narratives.

We want to create a legacy for the black community in Toronto and Canada,” said Hall.

Hall speaks on her favourite part about working with NIA Centre.

“Working with artists is the most rewarding part of the work that I do. Being able to support an artist whether it’s providing folks with opportunities to grow in their careers or better understanding how to navigate the arts world. Anytime I get the opportunity to work with, collaborate and present with an artist is a great feeling,” said Hall.

Hall recognizes that now more than ever before, people are turning to and appreciating art, and she wanted to ensure artists knew that when they saw the video.

“Many of us at home are turning to artists to keep us inspired, learning, and entertained. We’re reading books, watching shows, and listening to music. We wanted to celebrate black artists in particular and what they’re doing during this time. Whether they are using their energy to create or rest,” said the Executive Director. “We wanted to recognize that artists are helping us get through these times and we wanted to honour the creativity and strength of our community.”

One of the very talented black artists NIA and Hall has worked with is Alexis Eke, an illustrator and graphic designer from Toronto. Eke first worked with the NIA Centre earlier this year in February for Black History Month.

“To me I feel like the video was portraying how everyone has come up with their own way to create, whether that’s digital art or performance art. It was a way to be

more personal with the artistic community in Toronto,” said Eke. “I think it was a video to make us all feel a bit more like a community.”

Eke’s artwork is inspired by renaissance portraits and traditional Japanese art. She aims to illustrate black women in a contemporary light. Eke has worked with extremely well-known brands like Nike Jordan, Adidas, and Palm Bay Spritz.

“A huge theme in my artwork is portraits of black women. I’m really passionate about expanding the representation in the artistic community and having more people who look like me in art and showing their art in galleries,” said Eke. “There needs to be more representation in the artistic community for black female designers and artists. Representation encourages the younger black artists who are considering a career in art to feel encouraged when they see another black artist in the same field.”

The Executive Director of the NIA Centre says what the slogan for the video ‘Keep that energy’ means to her.

“Keep that energy, to me, speaks to this moment that we have to rest if possible while investing in ourselves. I think that investment can take many forms, it can be, taking time to read, taking time to live a well-balanced life, and doing things that you haven’t been able to do. Keep that energy to me, is about positive vibes and really utilizing this time that we have, focusing on things that are keeping you positive and uplifted,” said Hall.

#Activism or ‘#slacktivism’; is your online voice really loud enough?

JANIECE CAMPBELL janiece@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

You know the phrase ‘it’s a small world’? It seems to be growing truer each day. As wide and populated as this planet is, isn’t it crazy how interconnected we can be? There’s actually a term for this: time-space compression. It defines the impact of technological innovations such as the Internet that condense physical social space and additionally increase the speed of communication transmissions.

In simpler terms, what does that mean? Well, it’s essentially how you’re able to get those lengthy Whatsapp messages from your auntie. Within one mere tap, any post could be instantly received on the other side of the globe.

There’s one digital-age invention that is the epicenter of keeping many of us connected – the hashtag. Through the use of a number sign, we’re given the ability to follow specific conversations and threads at any time, in any location. But who knew that such a simple symbol would assist in changing the world?

The most revolutionary hashtag at this very moment may be #BlackLivesMatter.

Originating in 2013, following the acquittal of George Zimmerman in the shooting death of Trayvon Martin, it initiated an earth-shattering movement. It wouldn’t be long before the use of the hashtag became unfortunately common, as the entire world slowly tuned in to the reoccurring bouts of police brutality against black people. The untimely death of George Floyd brought this hashtag back expeditiously, generating 8.8 million tweets on the day of his death and an average of nearly 3.7 million tweets per day in the subsequent two weeks.

Most trending hashtags such as #KONY2012, #MeToo or #BringBackOurGirls all have a similar evident purpose – to raise awareness and show solidarity.

Hashtag activism has become a uni-

PUBLIC NOTICE Lost Guyana Passport

Yiu Chi Chee D.O.B: 14th February,1957 647.879.3488

versal wonder, giving society a voice to collectively condemn injustice and ultimately demand change. It has become an easily accessible and low-cost resource for many to support a cause while also offering an opportunity for further education. This form of online activism has very clearly made its mark in effectively garnering awareness and navigating a conversation that needs to be had.

Though the use of these hashtags tend to ignite global unrest, is a single post really doing much to help or is it all a waste of time?

The biggest issue with hashtag activism is the debate on whether it actually makes a difference or if it’s just a way for people to feel like they are making a difference.

This brings about the term “slacktivism,” a word to define those individuals who share a post from the comfort of their beds and then roll over, believing that small act will somehow change the world.

Recently, activists promoted #BlackOutTuesday, a specific day to refrain from posting personal matters unrelated to Black Lives Matter. Many users posted a solid black background including the hashtag #BlackLivesMatter, a bare-minimum attempt at

solidarity. While the posts were very likely well-intended, what did a plethora of black screens accomplish? In my opinion, not much at all. Instead, many viewed it as counterproductive, as it ended up harming the message and erasing the channels of a lot of helpful information that many worked so hard to vocalize.

In this age of constantly flowing information, it isn’t far-fetched that very soon, we’ll be consuming the next hottest topic and these hashtags will dwindle down to nothing more than just a trend. As days pass and the media coverage begins to die down, it’s safe to say that slacktivism isn’t enough, but it is definitely a start. After all, each movement has to begin with one post.

It’s heavily encouraged to continue sharing out information daily, but the current use of this hashtag is miniscule to real life engagement. It’s one thing to spread awareness, but what’s awareness without funding?

What’s awareness if people aren’t taking their voices to the streets and applying pressure?

We’re all socially aware of the problem at this point, it’s a matter of what you will do next to combat it.

EARN EXTRA MONEY FROM HOME No Commuting!

Flexible Hours!

Full and Part Time!

No Quotas, the more you work the more you earn!

Must be of legal working age, millenniums welcome!

No Experience Necessary!

Immediate and Ongoing Training and Support will be provided. Earn travel credentials, perks, and other advantages!

Commission: $1,000.00 - $2,000.00 A Home-based T.S.A is an independent contractor, with the ability to book vacation packages, hotel suites, Resorts, rental cars for clients/customers, family, friends, neighbors and themselves.

CALL 917-709-2491

NEWS

Wednesday, June 24, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 11

BrainTech Robotics STEM Learning identifies a large gap in African students’ education but there’s real fun, too. Participants of the program have an opportunity to work with peers their age who share the same passions.

SIMONE SMITH

The programs have six empowerment building stages:

simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

“Simone. Off the top of your head, tell me about a popular African person in Tech?”

I sat on the phone, quiet for a moment. I know this. Well, I should know this.

So why couldn’t I think of someone right away.

“Those women from the movie Hidden Figures,” I responded, laughing because I had not given a name. I was speaking with Patrick Monize, CEO & Founder of BrainTech Robotics STEM LC, and I had no idea that our interview would have started of with a quiz.

“It’s okay Simone,” he laughed.

“There are a lot of people who cannot answer that question. Our students know basketball players, baseball players, hip hop artists, but who knows a black programmer, black engineer.”

“I think that maybe I am the perfect candidate for one of your programs,” I replied, a little embarrassed, but now intrigued.

Patrick Monize identified a large gap in African student’s education, and quickly filled that gap when he established BrainTech Robotics STEM Learning Centre.

“It is clear that we are not up to speed in the realm of STEM learning,” Patrick began.

“My partner Christopher Lafayette and I are working together to provide access to programs that students cannot find in school.

We knew when we looked at our education system that we needed to build this platform.”

BrainTech Robotics has found a comprehensive way to bring the world of technology to our young people. Their programs are hands-on, and promote the usage of behaviours and skills. The programs offered build facility with core literacies and their application. Yes, they talk real science,

Build mastery and confidence It is important that our youth take ownership of their decisions. Many underestimate their abilities, and BrainTech helps them recognize what they are truly capable of.

Holistic approach to clear misconceptions Students will learn more about mind-set, and how their mind-set impacts their sense of self.

Increase representation This program is wonderfully supportive of the underrepresented females in STEM programs. Participants are able to witness strong race representation in leadership roles.

Recognize and showcase talents Participants have the chance to showcase their talents during design focal events.

Encourage exploration and discovery Students are encouraged to engage both independently and collectively using technology and innovation. They learn to embrace new technologies without fear or hesitation.

Engage real world applications Success is achieved when students are able to apply what they have learned to real life scenarios. STEM engagements teach youth to adapt the concepts that they learn to various iterations when solving a problem or issue.

What I truly appreciated about this program is the fact that is being marketed to young African women. “Women have a place in STEM,” Patrick tells me.

“When we are looking for participants for the programs, our first choice is usually African women living in the diaspora. We do welcome all students who would like to be part of the program, but our aim is to empower our young African women between

the ages of 7 – 17. There is a need for equitable representation of women, especially women of colour in STEM careers.”

“How has COVID-19 affected your efforts?” I queried.

“I couldn’t have asked for a better circumstance,” Patrick replied. “You look for the positive in all situations. There has been a lack of interaction because of COVID-19.

Our students are not doing their work, and because of this, we are providing FREE access from May 15th - August 15th. We have 100 kids so far, but our goal is to enrol 2,000 students on the portal. We want to be able to show the school boards that this is what students want.”

This summer, students across North America will have access to four products provided through BrainTech Robotics: POLLI (Personal Online Learning) Students have a chance to bring their imagination to life through powerful programming languages such as JavaScript, HTML and Python ARIS Digital Sandbox Flowing lava, rising oceans, Mars surface discovery, animal migration. The Digital Sandbox is an exciting, new learning tool that opens a world of possibilities for chil-

SOLVE JAMAICAN LEGAL PROBLEMS IN ONTARIO MEET HERE ™

DONE HERE ™

Anser Farooq

Alimi A. Banjoko Attorney-at-law (JA.) & Foreign Legal Consultant (ON.)

• Attorneys-At-Law • Barristers • Foreign Legal Consultants

Yonge Eglington Centre 2300 Yonge Street, Suite 1600, Toronto, Ontario M4P 1E4 • Kingston • New York City • London

Race Car Simulator This workshop offers an enriched program for young minds to team-up and engage in amazing builds and programming of Drones, Robotics, Androids, Battlebots, Modules and all things tech. #OurTurnNow Girls Robot Builder These workshops focus on developing practical skills of building and programming robots, which offers total hands-on integration with building blocks to make robots.

“We have been engaging in conversations with Big Brother, Big Sister, Sick Kids Hospital, any organizations that work with children,” Patrick informs me. “It is our responsibility as a community organization to provide accessibility to those who have, and those who do not have.”

For more information you can visit Braintech Robotics at https://braintechrobotics.com, and if you register with code# PMP937* you have a chance of winning a 1-year Membership https://portal.braintechrobotics.com/sign-up-polli/

I wonder if Patrick would consider opening up this platform for female adults.

All of a sudden, I am curious.

• CRIMINAL LAW • FAMILY LAW • CIVIL LITIGATION • PERSONAL INJURY • IMMIGRATION LAW Senior Trial Lawyer

Ontario

dren to explore and discover

Anser Law has been built on a strong work ethic believing that anything is possible for our clients and that the problems of our clients stop at our doorstep

Supreme Court, Jamaica

• PROPERTY • BUSINESS • PROBATE • FAMILY • & OTHER CIVIL MATTERS Tel: 416.549.1672 www.banjokolaw.com | info@banjokolaw.com

Shivani Balcharan

LLB (Guyana) LEC (Hugh Wooding Law School) Barrister & Solicitor (Ontario)

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION 3301 Cawthra Rd, Mississauga ON L5A 2X4 Tel: 905-290-2000 | 24hrs: 416-435-2963 anser@anserlaw.com - www.anserlaw.com

PAGE 12

NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

A mandate to educate black men; the Walnut Foundation Walks the Path for prostate cancer MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

For the last five years now, no matter the weather: family, friends, and supporters have been doing The Walnut Foundation’s highly anticipated ‘Walk the Path’ Walkathon. The walk helps in raising awareness and funds to help men - particularly black men - who are disproportionately affected, to get a better understanding and take responsibility for their prostate health.

This is done through diverse Prostate Cancer education initiatives. The current global pandemic, and the necessary social distancing guidelines inspired the team at The Walnut Foundation to go virtual with

the walkathon this year. This year it runs from May 1st - June 30th, 2020, instead of being only one day.

To complete the 10 km, participants have been walking in their homes, their yards, and communities, taking safety precautions into consideration. Registration is ongoing and can be confirmed via e-mail to info@thewalnutfoundation.com. Donations are welcome and can be made by credit card at www.thewalnutfoundation.com or by cheque to The Walnut Foundation: PO Box 74053 Kingspoint Plaza PO Brampton, Ontario, L6V 4J7. Donations of $20 and above will receive a tax receipt.

On Father’s Day a special Walkathon Challenge for the whole family will be announced across all their social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter) @ TheWalnutFounda

The Walnut Foundation was founded in 2007 and is a charitable, not-for-profit organization established by two prostate cancer survivors with different treatment experiences, and a shared passion for: addressing the prevalence of the disease in black

men the silence in the community, and the need for greater insights and information on well-being.

We spoke with one of the founders and First Vice President Mr. Anthony Henry, about the progress being made since Toronto Caribbean Newspaper’s initial article last year.

Henry affirmed that he and his organization are trying to adapt to all the changes brought about by COVID-19.

“Our meetings are held online now,” he said, “Where normally we would have gotten together in person, the virtual walk allows them to do so and still stay active while being on lockdown. It has been challenging because people are accustomed to getting together for the walk.”

There was a survey done last year which involved Prostate Cancer Canada. It revealed that over 70% of black Canadians are in the dark when it comes to knowing that they are at higher risk of getting this disease than other races.

Henry was asked why the ignorance concerning something so detrimental? “I believe it’s the secrecy surrounding it. Nobody

wants to talk about it. If you don’t talk, you don’t share. You don’t gain the understanding, and that is one of the reasons that The Walnut Foundation was created, because the mandate here is to educate.”

Henry stressed that the key here is getting tested at 40 instead of 50 and monitoring your numbers to know where you stand on the prostate health scale all the time. As black men don’t wait around and say, “I don’t want to be touched there. Take control of your health. it could literally mean your life.”

“If we can change the perception, get people talking, maybe we can get them looking at this sooner in conjunction with their health care professionals,” Henry reiterated. “I was in a conference call a couple of weeks ago talking to some researchers in the U.S, and what they find is that when black men are aware of the risk factor, we get tested earlier, and our outcomes are even better than that of the general population.”

For more information on this subject please visit www.thewalnutfoundation. com

Not your average 17-year-old; Meet the ‘World’s Most Powerful Girl’ JANIECE CAMPBELL janiece@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Can you remember what you were doing at nine years old? I bet that it was nowhere near meeting a national world leader for your own documentary.

That was the reality for Zuriel Oduwole, the “World’s Most Powerful Girl,” a title dubbed by former United States Secretary of State, John Kerry. Today, at age seventeen, she is a filmmaker and girl education advocate, all while being a full-time student.

Her venture into the film industry began when she entered a competition, where participants were given an assignment to create an artistic representation of a historical revolution. Striving to stand out from her peers who chose American or European events, young Zuriel extensively researched unique untold stories. A girl whose roots run

deep in the continent of Africa, she chose the June 4th ‘Rawlings Revolution’ in Ghana. After reaching out to the president of Ghana at the time to use as a primary source for her documentary, he responded by inviting her to the country to be interviewed in-person. The rest was history… literally!

With a total of seven films under her belt currently, Zuriel says that picking up a camera showed her a much bigger picture.

“Filmmaking led me to start my entire education initiative. When I went to Ghana, I saw children who were around the same age as me who were out in the streets instead of being in school. As someone who went to school in America from Monday to Friday, I couldn’t understand why they weren’t in school.”

On a quest to make a global difference in children’s education, Zuriel has met over thirty world leaders. Taking on the challenge of shaping outdated mindsets, she recognizes the privilege of being an education advocate while still being a child, as she offers a different perspective that forces leaders to listen. After meeting with the president of Mozambique, a country where 48% of girls were married under the age of eighteen according to UNICEF, Zuriel helped to give girls across the country a much brighter and

hopeful future.

“I simply said that if these girls are able to stay in school and continue their educations, then they wouldn’t get married off at such young ages. It took about eighteen months in total but in the end, a policy came out outlawing girl marriage in the entire country.”

Having written opinion columns for several foreign newspapers regarding global issues, an excerpt from her latest piece entitled “Is America’s Approach to Fixing Racism Wrong?” questions the justice system and race-related issues in both Canada and America.

“What is the root cause of racism in North America, especially that unique blend that seems to cause the injury, death, and then incarceration of people of African descent aged 15-49 in the hands of their nations law enforcement officers. What is it that other races, especially caucasians, see when they look at or encounter African immigrants, irrespective of what generation they are? Is it hope, friendship, help, support, opportunity, development, growth, inspiration? Or do they see a basket full of the exact opposite of all I had just mentioned? And if that’s what they see, why do they see that? What have they been sold and why did they buy what

they were sold?

What if the challenge is the sellers are selling an expired and outdated product, and because no one is turning away from their stores or checking the validity of the products, they just simply, keep selling?

What if we all deliberately begin to sell a new set of products, a fresh set of goods, and a kinder and gentler narrative? A storyline you would want others to tell about you? What if we all change our walk to mean we all rise or fall together, and even if one of us falls, we go out of our way to help that person onto his or her feet, because we want to see only by choice – the good and the possibilities in that fallen person, just like in the movie The Blind Side.”

As she plans to continue her advocacy work, Zuriel aspires to become the president of the United States someday so that she can have a positive effect on policies in and outside of the country. She concludes with a piece of advice directed to the youth.

“Make sure that you have dreams. All of the things I’m doing right now started with a dream. I was once told ‘if your dreams don’t scare you, then they are not big enough.’ I use that and apply it to everything I do.”

We are reopening slowly, yeah! We still have to be careful JONELL PANTLITZ jonell@carib101.com

TC JR. REPORTER

Finally, we are slowly but surely re-opening Ontario and hopefully, soon enough, we can go back to our regular lives, where if someone sneezes on us, all we worry about is a common flu/cold.

Ontario is in the second stage of reopening. Many states in the United States of America have also started to open. But it is essential to keep in mind that although countries, cities and provinces are in the process of re-opening, it doesn’t mean we can go about doing whatever we want without thinking about our health.

According to Live Science, The Cen-

tres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released additional guidance to help individuals reduce their risk of COVID-19. The basic rules haven’t changed: wash your hands, maintain social distancing and cover your face with a mask. However, CDC also provided some of the most detailed instructions yet for how to navigate everyday activities, such as checking out a library book or even hosting a party.

Dr. Robert Redfield, director of the CDC, said at a press briefing on June 12th “I know people are eager to return to normal activities and ways of life, but it’s important that people remember that this situation is unprecedented and the pandemic has not ended.”

We still need to follow the proper protocols to remain safe. The CDC explained that in general, the more closely you interact with others, the longer the interaction lasts and the greater the number of people you interact with, the higher your risk of getting COVID-19. They also stated that indoor activities are riskier than outdoor activities, and people should maintain a distance of at least 6 feet (1.8 meters) between themselves and

others, as well as wearing face coverings, to cut the risk of COVID-19 spread.

According to the Government of Ontario, Ontario is gradually reopening businesses, services and public spaces on a regional basis as progress is made in the fight against COVID-19. The Government of Ontario website states, “We are reopening Ontario in three stages. Through all stages, public health and safety will remain the number one concern, while balancing the needs of people and the economy.” There will also be time between the launch of each stage to assess conditions before moving to the next. Here is a recap of the stages: Stage 1 Opening businesses that can immediately meet or modify operations to meet public health advice and workplace safety measures.

Stage 2 Taking a regional approach to opening more businesses and services such as restaurant patios, hair salons and swimming pools, as well as community, recreational and outdoor spaces, while emphasizing public health ad-

vice and personal responsibility. This stage of re-opening includes pools.

Stage 3 Reopening most remaining workplaces and community spaces, while carefully and gradually lifting restrictions. Public health advice and workplace safety guidance will remain in place and available. Large public gatherings will continue to be restricted.

One thing we know for sure is that Ontario is taking a regional approach, with regions that demonstrate readiness based on key public health indicators reopening first.

Most areas were allowed to enter the second stage last Friday, June 12th, except for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton areas, some regions that border the United States and those with COVID-19 outbreaks among migrant workers. Toronto, Peel and Windsor-Essex, Premier Doug Ford has urged patience. He says the province will re-evaluate its readiness on Monday, June 22nd.

For information on how to be safe during re-opening visit Live Science or Government of Ontario websites.

NEWS

Wednesday, June 24, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 13

Etana’s new single is “Bubble-ing” hot MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Try thinking of a crooner that puts all the feelings of a soul singer into a reggae ballad. Who comes to mind?

Think about a female Reggae artist that is as equally passionate as Gladys Knight. Now who comes to mind?

Etana is a reggae Diva with the range of Whitney Houston, mixed with some Jamaican lingo. This can be heard when one listens to her latest track called Bubble, which the singer said comes from just wanting to spread more love in these troubled times.

This crooner grew up in August Town Jamaica, but moved to Florida at an early age. She started doing back up singing for Mr. Richie Spice, and is now lighting up the planet with her unique style of reggae vibes as only she can.

On her recent single, Etana gives the impression that she has really and truly found the love of a lifetime, and has no intention of letting go. She is willing to do hard-time to keep her man if that is what it takes.

This artist has proved that she is

not to be taken lightly. Her album “Reggae Forever” was released on March 2018, and was number one on the Billboard reggae albums chart for two consecutive weeks, making her the first female in more than two decades, in reggae, to gain top position twice on the chart.

The single is available now as an instant grat track. The pre-order of Gemini releasing is on June 19th via Freemind Music - Zojak World Wide.

Toronto Caribbean Newspaper had the honor of speaking with Etana at length about her musical journey, life and children. The crooner discloses that the soulful sounds and all the feelings people hear when listening to her songs comes from her life’s journey. All the pain, the struggles, and the happy times; they all make up the package that is Etana.

I asked Etana about the inspiration behind the song Bubble. “It is just a love song written to pull people together.

A statement was put out that said people were having problems, that there were high separation and divorce rates due to COVID-19.”

Etana told Toronto Caribbean Newspaper that after moving from VP records, she started her own team Freemind Music, and it was an experience for her to find out the cost of doing things herself, but she is no weakling and success followed her. Soon after the release of her first independent album, and while touring she got the good news that she was number one on the Billboard Reggae albums chart.

“I think touring had a lot to do with that,” she said, “It was also surprising to me to learn that my first project, that I created with my own team independently got nominated.”

As for her expectations about her music the reggae crooner said, “When I put out music I never expect anything except for my fans to hear it, and then they decide where it goes after that. Any project that I have done, I release it and I just let my fans take it away.

That makes me happy and grateful because it is done for them.”

Even though the reggae star has all this going on, she still finds time for family life. “I get up in the morning and make sure my two girls’ teeth are brushed, and make them breakfast. I take my daughter to dance and the other one to karate. I have had to be teacher, mommy, playmate and more.”

Etana was asked how she would like to be remembered and she answered, “As the one who gave people strength through music positively.”

Etana’s album called Gemini can be purchased through the iTunes store or pre-ordered.

Resignation of Toronto’s Police Chief signals new era PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The announcement of Toronto’s Police Chief Mark Saunders’ resignation on Monday afternoon at the Toronto Police Headquarters was met with shock and disbelief by the Mayor, the Premier and many members of the black community.

The chief has been with the Toronto Police Service for 37 years, and he rose

up through the ranks to achieve its highest position. The Chief in his announcement stated, “Here I am after 37 plus years working with what I believe to be the greatest law enforcement agency in the world. I’ve watched this organization grow, listen and serve the greatest continents fourthlargest city in the world, and the most diverse in the world. I look forward to being a full-time dad and a full-time husband, and that’s not as an exhausted by-product who walks through the door at the end of the day.”

There has been much speculation in the media as to the reasons why the Chief left eight months before his contract expired on April 30th, 2021. The renewal of his contract by the Toronto Police Services Board was a surprise to many. It was only the second time in 40 years that a police

chief was able to serve for a second term.

Chief Saunders did not give specific reasons as to why he decided to leave early.

In 2017, he took some time off for medical leave, when he received a kidney from his wife, but that was not a factor in his decision to retire early.

In many ways, Chief Saunders’ control of the Toronto Police Service has been marked by many incidents that will be permanently etched in the psyches of Torontonians. Last year was the deadliest year in the history of Toronto with 78 people being killed, an increase by 19 deaths from the previous year. In addition, there was the North York van attack, which killed 10 and left 16 people injured, as well as the shooting on the Danforth. The most negative occurrence was the handling of the case of serial killer, Bruce McArthur who

Private mortgages with

NO LENDING FEES

oz

Home equity loans from 3,000-30,000 and NO LEGAL FEES

powered by

Zvika Shluper

Mortgage Agent, FSCO Lic. #12465

C A P I TA L

Unit 11, 201 Spinnaker Way, Concord, ON L4K 4C6 Tel: 905-532-9288 | Cell: 416-452-8245 www.zvikashluper.ca | zvika@ozcapital.ca

admitted to killing eight people from the gay village between 2010-2017.

There has been attention given to defunding the police and redirecting some of its resources to: community programs, social services and mental health supports. According to the June 8th issue of True North Wire, two Toronto city councillors, Josh Marlow and Kristyn Wong-Tam have put forward a motion that would cut the Toronto Police Service’s budget by 10% which is approximately, $122 million. Their motion states, “It’s time to defund the police budget and re-balance our use of public funds toward ensuring that our communities are supported in ways that avoid having to have the police show up at the door in the first place.”

PAGE 14

NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Challenges, conflicts and tensions continue to surface at the Peel District School Board the 12 Trustees and senior board officials.

She interviewed the Chair, Vice-Chair, Director of Education, Peter Joshua as well as two Trustees: Kathy Macdonald and David Green as well as the mediator retained by the PDSB.

The focus of her investigation was not on all of the 27 Ministerial Directions but on: one, six, seven, eight, twelve and sixteen.

PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Arleen Huggins issued the investigation into the Peel District School Board’s compliance with the Minister’s binding Directions on March 13th, 2020.

As a lawyer with expertise in human rights, her 27-page report highlighted specific areas of concerns with respect to the dysfunction at the PDSB. The report was sent to the Minister on May 15th, 2020.

It raises some significant and disturbing revelations from her investigation.

In her report, which took less than three weeks from the time that she was asked by the Minister of Education, Stephen Leece on April 27th was complete and thorough.

As part of her investigation, she was able to gain access to: Board’s minutes, transcripts, emails and communication with

•

• • •

Direction one was to, “Identify, address and resolve dysfunction between and among members of the Board and between members of the Board and the Director of Education and Associate Directors” and required a Mediator or conflict resolution expert.

Direction six requires the Board to create and implement a mandated Learning Plan for Trustees.

Direction seven focused on creating racial diversity of the Board.

Direction eight requires the Board to, “Retain an expert to conduct a robust and transparent appraisal of the Director of Education’s performance relating to addressing anti-black racism, Islamphobia and other pressing areas of eq-

•

uity, as well as board governance and human resources practices.”

Directions twelve and sixteen focuses on the independence and neutrality of the HRCO within the Board and the development of an Anti-Racism Policy.

In her investigation, Ms Huggins was able to uncover significant problematic and troubling areas of: friction, tension and challenges between two Trustees who have been at the forefront of advocating for social justice and racial equity for racialized and students of colour and the other ten Trustees.

There has been a lot of coverage in the local press and mainstream media about these challenges, conflicts and tensions between the director of education and the Superintendent of Equity who is on medical leave.

Ms.Higgins reported, “There is no evidence that the Board has a willingness to engage in the necessary work to gain an understanding.” In addition, she wrote that the board has,” Failed to understand that its mandate includes engagement with communities, and respectful collaboration particularly with black communities are essential to move forward and out of the current

crisis of non-confidence.”

Her strongest criticism was directed at the Director of Education Peter Joshua.

“He has not demonstrated the necessary capacity to lead the implementation of the directives nor in some cases did there seem to be any sense of urgency.” In her summary, she notes, “The dysfunction at the Director’s office remains unaddressed, and I have seen no evidence of a plan to resolve the issues underlying the dysfunction. The Director of Education has not demonstrated the necessary capacity to lead the implementation of the binding directions.”

On Monday, June 8th, Minister of Education, Stephen Leece spoke on the update, “As outlined in the Education Act, I am required to provide a final opportunity for compliance from the board. My expectations are clear; the board must change, or I will take further action. We cannot and will not sit idle while families and students continue to feel isolated, victimized and targeted.”

He has given the PDSB a last chance to collaborate and formulate a plan by June 22nd. If there is no progress made, he will have no choice but to send in a supervisor to take over the board.

African-Canadian fathers assemble to reframe the discussion on being a “Black Dad” SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

thers across the globe.

I was very happy when Ed Gough (aka Dr. Vibe), invited me to be part of the annual Dad Fest on Saturday, June 20th, at 3:00 pm. It was great experience being a silent participant, because it gave me an opportunity to experience African men from across Canada speaking on fatherhood, and their personal stories of: triumphs, challenges, and life lessons.

“Legacy building is important.”

Paul Osbourne James (Dad Fest Attendee)

“Brothers, too many people die with a bill not a will.” Dr. Vibe (Host, Dad Fest)

“Thank you for always coming home dad!”

This is a statement I have spoken many times to my own father. I cannot remember a time when my father was not active in my life. It is my dad who instilled many of the values that I have right now.

Research continues to suggest that father’s play a significant role in the growth and development of a child. Whether it is a young lady, or a young man, fathers have a strong influence on a child’s school adjustment, social competence and psychological well being (Cooper, 2015).

There seems to be a projected and overwhelming negative image of African fathers. Much of the discussion has centered on the negative impacts of a fathers absence. What is not taken into consideration is that there are some involved, loving, passionate African men, who remain active in their children’s lives, even if they may not be involved romantically with their child’s mother. A great example is a study that was done comparing Caucasian and Latino fathers; it was found that African fathers reported higher levels of engagement in caregiving and play activities (Cooper, 2015).

What is not being discussed is the positive impact African men have on the lives of their children. We as a community must continue to focus on the roles and contributions of African fathers. Now, more than ever, we have to reframe the discussion, and shine a positive light on the involvement and engagement of African fa-

When I clicked on to the Zoom meeting, I was pleasantly greeted with heart-thumping baselines, and familiar tunes that were being spun by the one and only Dj Benjamin DeGraff. That was new for me, and a welcoming surprise. Slowly, I saw men filtering on to the call, but it didn’t feel awkward because everyone was enjoying the music.

There were some quick introductions, and then Dad Fest kicked of with their first panel of guests, which included: • • • • •

Mark Smith (Founding Members of Lions Club) Dalton Higgins (More than a Haircut) Cassius Washington Smith Jermaine Spence Brandon Hey (Black Daddies Club)

This powerful group of panellists shared their expertise, and passion for fathering discussing: what co-parenting looked like during COVID-19, how they were taking care of their mental health and the mental health of their children, managing emotions, and how they were keeping their children engaged during the pandemic.

One item of importance that was shared was the fact that children were not getting enough physical activity. Most recently, The Hospital for Sick Children has launched the Centre for Healthy Active Kids.

Their focus is on understanding how nutrition and physical activity impacts a child’s

life, and they explore early intervention and prevention strategies that promote healthy, active living (http://www.sickkids.ca/Centre-for-Healthy-Active-Kids/index.html)

After the first panel discussion there was an intermission, which was skilfully utilized to engage fathers in attendance with tips for black families during COVID-19, and Father’s Day poll questions.

This gave the fathers a chance to speak for themselves, and express their own specific viewpoint on a selection of questions, and thoughtful insights. I thought I would share the 10 poll questions for our readers to think about: How being a parent is one of the best parts of my life?

• I put so much into parenting; I don’t have time for myself. (Yes/No) • I honestly believe I have all the skills necessary to be a good father.

• A man can be a good father even if he doesn’t live with his child.

• Being a father is the most important thing in my life.

• All children need strong relationships with their father to grow up well.

• Any man can father a child, but it takes a special person to be a good dad.

• A stepfather or other man can be just as good a dad as a biological father can be.

• What is the most important part of being a good father? (financial support, teaching about life, providing direct care, providing love, providing protection, disciplining and being an authority figure) • How did you feel when you found out you were going to be a father?

“Being present without the pressures of work schedules has allowed me to connect with my son at a more relaxed pace...

And allowed me to be with my daughter as she grows.” Nicholas Barham (Dad Fest Attendee)

After the short intermission, Dwayne Morgan gifted attendees with poetry from his book “Period & other lessons from my daughter.” The poems were well received, and the moderators took all attendees off mute so that they could honour Dwayne with words of encouragement, and with a round of applause.

His poems were a great introduction to the second panel session that included panellists: • • • •

Keith Hill Jr. (Author & Entrepreneur) Tchaka Adofo (Canadian, Jamaican Born) Jermaine Spence (Community Support Worker) Bro.Kofi (Energy Healer, Holistic Health, and Wellness Coach)

In this panel session they discussed: strategies to engage children through education, generational plans that they had in place for their children, the type of values black men should have as fathers, how the community can better support black families at this time, and Afrocentric curriculum ideas that can be found online.

“COVID has been an opportunity to ground with my family and especially my boys. We have all agreed that we love each other.”

Rudi Williams Dad Fest, 2020 was a tremendous success.

Even though the attending fathers were not able to meet in person, they focused on discussions that further promoted positive development and reduce existing disparities. The success of the event supports the importance of spaces that provide men with opportunities to openly acknowledge and process the ways in which intergenerational experiences have guided their lives, and how settings of this nature are particularly supportive and therapeutic for African-American males.

COMPLIMENTARY HOME EVALUATION REPORT

LET’S GET YOUR HOME OR CONDO

SOLD!

Sell Your Home or Condo FAST www.iamreadytosell.ca or Call 647-867-7809 *Ask me about my "LET'S GET SOLD Guarantee”* Custom Home Website & Virtual Tour at NO Extra Charge

Your Home Listed on 5000+ Partner Websites for Maximum Exposure

Let's Help You BUY a Home or Condo!

Good Credit, Good Job, No Saved Down Payment No Problem!

First Time Buyer Programs & Incentives FREE Home Inspections** Cash Back Mortgage Options Mortgage options for GOOD and BAD credit www.iamreadytobuy.ca or Call 647-867-7809

SOLD FOR SALE DAVE JOHNSON 647-867-7809

DAVE JOHNSON Real Estate Agent

647-867-7809

50 Village Centre Pl Suite 100 Mississauga, ON L4Z 1V9

dave@searchrealty.ca | dave.searchrealty.co

1% Donation will be made for Each Home SOLD

PAGE 16

NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Does your doctor have harmful bias?

How the racialized community can protect themselves from medical bias W. GIFFORDJONES MD DIANA GIFFORD-JONES TC HEALTH REPORTER

“This week is the first of a two-part column – this week from W. Gifford-Jones and next week from Diana Gifford-Jones – offering our perspectives on race relations and health.”

Racial inequities have been a sore on society for as long as I remember. During my youth, racism was endemic, systematic and blatant. Two occasions stand out from my time at Harvard Medical School, where I had two black classmates. One lived in Atlanta, and when planning a road trip to Florida, I said I’d drop by to see him. He replied, “Don’t do it. This will cause trouble for me.”

On another occasion, travelling by train to Boston, I asked a black student to join me for lunch. He replied, “I’m not allowed to go

to the dining car.” Both these fine men went on to illustrious medical careers.

But now years later, its clear we still have problems. Not surprisingly, the implications of racial inequities extend to our health. Does race factor in medical decisions? Does it affect treatment? You can bet it does.

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that North American blacks have not fared well. Blacks have borne 35% of deaths, while they comprise 13.4% of the U.S. population.

Dr. Elizabeth Chapman, Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Wisconsin, wrote in the Journal of General Internal Medicine that implicit bias among physicians impacts clinical decision making that perpetuates disparities, even when they strive to deliver equal care. Her research showed that unconscious judgements built on negative stereotypes affects diagnosis, treatment and patient follow-up.

Gender disparity in healthcare is also an issue. One study, published in BMJ Open, reported women were significantly more likely to require three or more pre-referrals before they obtained a consultation for bladder or kidney malignancy as com-

pared to men.

Chapman cites another case in the health journal Mind Over Matter of men suffering chronic obstructive lung disease as being more often correctly diagnosed.

Women with the same problem were more likely to be labelled as having a psychiatric problem.

Chapman says autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and celiac disease, affect women more than men. An American study showed it required 4.6 years before the diagnosis was made in women. During that time women visited 4.8 doctors and 46% were told that they were too concerned about their health and were chronic complainers. Chapman says it’s a deep-seated bias that women’s symptoms are associated with stress and anxiety.

According to Chapman, it’s African American women who receive the worst treatment and that it’s unfortunately a common problem.

Why does it happen? If the doctor has a racial bias, he or she will have a general impression that African American women are more likely to be uncooperative or less likely to do what the doctor has pre-

scribed. Moreover, the gender and race of patients influences whether these doctors follow the usual treatment guidelines.

It’s not only African Americans and women that face physician bias. Chapman points out that some doctors do not understand “normal aging.” This can lead to misdiagnosis for older people. For instance, they may diagnose Alzheimer’s disease when the trouble is a deficiency of vitamin B12.

To overcome bias, Chapman suggests doctors should take the Implicit Association Test, developed by psychologists at Harvard University, the University of Virginia, and the University of Washington.

You can try it online.

What can you do to protect yourself from medical bias? Be your own best advocate. You must never forget that you own your body. Get a second, or even a third opinion. Talk with your doctor about your concerns and change doctors if necessary.

I know from long experience that racial issues have staying power. We can see it in our society today, just as evident as when I encountered it as a trainee more than 70 years ago. And I’ll never forget not seeing my black classmate in Atlanta.

Removing key barriers that prevent young people from achieving their economic purpose PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The PC-led government announced on Thursday, June 8th the creation of the Premier’s Council on Equality of Opportunity.

In the news release from the Office of the Premier, Doug Ford states, “At a time when the world is facing some of it’s most difficult challenges, we have to do everything we can to help our next generation of leaders overcome the social and economic barriers before them. Our young people are the future of the province and I truly believe this council will be a strong advocate that will set them down the path to even greater success.” This youth council will act as an

advisory group that will provide important advice to the government to ensure that 20 youth between the ages of 18-29 are given a voice so that their issues are recognized.

The government is looking for youth from across Ontario to join the council, especially those who have expertise in areas such as: community service, business, education, and government services such as youth justice and childcare. The membership will be intergenerational and cross sector and will include a chair and vice-chair.

In its advisory role, it will provide advice to the government on long-term strategies that it can engage in to help youth who are impacted the most by COVID-19.

According to the Minister of Children Todd Smith, “The Premier’s Council on Equality of Opportunity will allow our government to hear directly from those who have faced economic challenges in our province. The council’s knowledge, combined with the insight gained from engaging with communities and youth across Ontario, will help our government as we work to remove the key barriers that

prevent young people from achieving their economic purpose.”

Premier Doug Ford appointed Jamil Jivani, an author, lawyer and community organizer, who also serves as Ontario’s Advocate for Community Opportunities as the chair of the council. Jamil will also head the new anti-racism council for the government of Ontario. He stated, “For decades, youth from disadvantaged communities have face barriers to succeeding in our economy.

COVID-19 has made these issues worse. As chair of the Premier’s Council on Equality of Opportunity, I will work with a diverse group of leaders to help the government give young workers especially disadvantaged youth a fair chance to succeed in Ontario’s workforce.”

The focus will be on ensuring that children, families and youths who have pressing needs are attended to. The government has allocated $1.5 million that is intended to help black youth from marginalized and vulnerable communities. Jamil states, “We want to impact policy in that we

can see real action. A lot of previous administrators have been about talk.”

Liberal members Mitzie Hunter and Michael Coteau were quick to respond.

They reminded the government that it disbanded the previous Premier’s Council on Youth Opportunities (PCYO), which gave advice to the Premier and the Minister of Children and Youth Services on issues affecting youth. The previous council was involved in local communities, and were able to give youth input to government’s decision-making.

In addition, this council had 25 members and was geared towards youth between 16-25 years of age. The mandate of this council in the 2016-2017 budget was to advise the government with respect to outcomes for at-risk youth and ensuring that programs and services were amenable to diverse groups and sectors.

The Liberal members state that the PC-led government has wasted two years.

There is much hope that this new council will really change the lives of our youth.

Wednesday, June 24, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

History in the making: Malike Sidibe discusses his photography projects in depth in Nikon interview series SELINA McCALLUM salina@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

At only 23 years old, Malike Sidibe is an award-winning photographer whose work has been featured in several exhibitions in New York. He has worked with The Met Museum, TIME, The New York Times Magazine, Business Week, Nike, Footlocker, Nikon, and Instagram.

Sidibe was born in Man, Cote d’Ivoire and moved to Guinea when he was 3 years old. He fell in love with photography at age 12 when his father gave him his first camera. From Guinea, he moved to New York City in the summer of 2010 at the age of 13.

On Wednesday, June 17th, the young, black and talented photographer was interviewed by Nikon’s own Mike Corrado, who has been working with Nikon for 35 years and a photographer for over 40.

Creator’s Hour: My Defining Images is a series by Nikon where they interview world-renowned photographers via video chat on the stories behind their very best photographs.

Throughout the month of June, Nikon has been broadcasting original content and hosting activities meant to educate, inspire and entertain.

Near the start of the video, Sidibe discusses how he learned to use his camera. He thanks an after school program called NYC Salt that taught him how.

“Salt did a lot of things for me, so when talking about this topic, I don’t even know where to start. Since joining the program, they would give me assignments to go out and shoot and introduce me to editors in the photo industry,” said Sidibe. “They helped me find my passion for photography.”

Sidibe has done portraits, editorial, studio and creative set design photography.

After speaking on how he got started on his career in photography, Corrado brought up Sidibe’s defining photos to discuss every detail.

His work is a reflection of his creative nature. He draws inspiration from the people he meets and the places he has lived. He is a high-energy creative photographer producing inno-

vative portraits and images full of spirit and colour.

The first photo Corrado brought up on to the screen is from Sidibe’s personal project called Mamiwata.

“Mamiwata is like this mythical goddess that is worshipped in West Africa. People believe that she lives in the water. She is spiritual and comes to you in your dreams,” said Sidibe. “Growing up, I just heard stories about her and she’s been around me all my life.”

On Sidibe’s website it states, “In Trinidad and Tobago Mami Wata plays the role of guardian of nature, punishing overzealous hunters or woodcutters. Those who have had encounters with her have described her energy in many ways.”

Sidibe says he stood over the model while she was in the water to take the photo. He completed the project while living in LA for a year. He joked about not being able to swim and was glad that the model, who was recommended by a friend of his, could swim.

The photographer truly knows how to capture images that make your eyes hungry for more. The colours that he brings out in his photos, and the emotion he captures is extraordinary.

Sidibe recently took photos of the Black Lives Matter protests happening in New York for the New York Times Magazine. He posted a few of the photos on his Instagram account, which has over 50 thousands followers.

“So grateful to see my work on the cover for @nytmag in print,” wrote Sidibe for his caption under the photo he posted on Instagram. “Thank you @ kathyryan @bigbabygenius for my first major cover and spreads in this week’s issue. I am beyond humbled that you trusted me to tell this story through my lens. As a young black man the importance of this topic cannot be understated,” he wrote.

The photo is of a crowd of people on the street at night, while a man above them on a pole holds a long stick that is attached to the America flag.

Spray painted in black on the flag is the words in big, bold, capital letters, “I can’t breathe”.

“This was an incredible opportunity that took me out of my comfort zone but this is a topic that needs to be addressed until real change comes and we all have to be a part of that change in ways that may make us uncomfortable sometimes,” wrote Sidibe.

To see more of Sidibe’s work, visit malikesidibe.com

NEWS

PAGE 17

JEAN J. FELICIEAN FEBRUARY 1O, 1937 - JUNE 03, 2020

It is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of my best friend Jean.

To articulate the loss of Jean from my life is difficult to put into words. She is someone that I connected with from the moment we met. Jean exemplifies what it means to have a true friend - she was a beautiful person in every way.

Jean had the wonderful opportunity to travel the world. She visited places that she once said "I only dreamt about" Exotic countries such as Japan, China, Singapore, Mexico, Netherlands, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Panama and so many other destinations throughout the United States and the Caribbean. Jean was an excellent travel partner who would always go with the flow and enjoy every travel experience to it's fullest - with a glass of white wine, of course! She used to say that she would try everything at least once - and she did!

Jean was born in Port of Spain in the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago. We quite often traveled to these two beautiful islands as well. I enjoyed hearing about her childhood stories in Trinidad, especially about the special times she shared with her favorite brother Mathew. Fortunately, while Jean was still able to travel, we took one more trip to T &T, so that Jean and Mathew could go up to Mount St. Benedict to light candles - that was such a memorable day!

Jean will be missed by many who knew and loved her. Her brother Mathew and wife Thelma, her friends Googly Eyes, Gehmebo, Gladys, Froggy Girl and of course, Peter and Masako as well as Joan (the windmill lady) who regularly called Jean in the hospital. Also, many nephews and nieces in Trinidad and also her God daughter Karen in Atlanta, Georgia.

Jean, I will always remember you, my precious friend. When I have a difficult day missing you, I will look up at the sky and ask "Which part you is?"

Rest Easy, Jeannie.

Until we meet again, Gentle Giant A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Trinidad.

NEWS

PAGE 18

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

“Daddy is not here this year!”

Reflections on Father’s Day celebrations for deceased and absent fathers LA SHAWNA GRIFFITH lashawna@carib101.com

BARBADOS TC REPORTER

BARBADOS -- Father’s Day! The time of the year when we celebrate the male figures in our lives that have gone above and beyond to instill strict values in us: their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Usually in Barbados, families take their father to lunch at any of the popular hotels on the island, or some of them have a more laid-back celebration with a beach picnic at any of the beaches on the island.

The celebration of Father’s Day began one hundred years ago on June 19th, 1920, when a young woman wanted to honour her dad. Before this, in May 1909

Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington, sat in church listening to a Mother’s Day sermon when she was struck with the idea of creating a special holiday to honour fathers too.

111 years later we have Father’s Day which is celebrated in the Caribbean, Latin American Countries as well as: Argentina, Canada, France, Greece, India, Ireland, Mexico, Pakistan, Singapore, and South Africa.

But while everyone is celebrating their love for their fathers on Father’s Day, I decided to look at those who do not have a father in their lives. What is it like for someone who has lost his or her father?

I sat and watched the sadness on my mother’ face when she lost her father (my grandfather) Father’s Day was not easy, as they were separated by thousands of miles. My mother resides in Barbados, and my late Grandfather resided in the United States of America. Regardless of the distance, they would make the effort to talk to each other every single Father’s Day.

As a child, I looked forward to

those conversations with my grandfather.

It was my chance to update him on everything that was happening in my life.

We spoke for hours until the credit on the phone would die.

Now that he is deceased, Father’s Day for my mother is a day for her to reflect on the happy memories that she shared with her father over the years. For a family who has lost their father, celebrating the day will be hard for them, but they can take solace in the happy memories that they shared with their loved one.

On the flip side, there are the persons who on Father’s Day are reminded of their parents’ absenteeism.

If I use myself as an example, growing up, I never met my paternal grandfather. I have no idea what he looks like, or who he is for that matter. I always wondered what he would sound like and if he would be proud of all of my achievements.

Father’s Day is not celebrated in my household as it was years ago. I would create a Father’s Day card during Sunday

school for my father and give it to him with a kiss on his cheek. As I got older, circumstances changed, and I now contact my father on WhatsApp to wish him a Happy Father’s Day.

One of the things that I realized with writing this article is that there are numerous male figures in our society who may not necessarily have children but have been the dominant male figure for children in their community. When asked, some persons said that they always saw their male class teachers as positive role models and even police officers that scared them straight.

For those whose fathers are absent, take the time to reach out to your father, and see if you can start a relationship.

Sometimes dads who are absent in a child’s life are scared of the role of fatherhood because truth be told, it is not easy.

Take the time to call them and have a chat with them because one thing that COVID-19 has taught me is that time is a prized commodity.

Rise of a Champion - Andrew Robinson’s journey to the IBO Crown - Part 1 MKUU AMANI

mkuu@carib101.com

UK TC REPORTER

UK -- On March 24th, 2018 Birmingham boxer Andrew ‘D’Animal’ Robinson and Brighton’s Nicky Jenman went toe to toe for twelve rounds at the Genting Arena in Birmingham. The International Boxing Organization Continental Middleweight Title was on the line and, after a hard-fought contest, it was Robinson who emerged victorious. It took ten rounds to decide the victor but the new Champion’s journey to the title began way before the bell had been rang to signal the beginning of the first round.

“I’ve sacrificed everything to make it in this sport. I missed my babies’ first steps, their school plays and their swimming lessons, but it’s all been so that I can provide for them and give them a good life and a Dad they can be proud of.” Andrew Robinson.

2012 was a year that will be remembered by many. And for many different reasons.

From recollections of the highly rated London Olympics to heart-rendering thoughts of the Afghan War, mentioning that year is liable to provoke a wealth of diverse memories.

It was the year we suffered the tragic death of the magnificent African American singer Whitney Houston. It was

also the year that saw US President Barack Obama re-elected for a second term, and that a stoppage-time goal scored by Sergio Aguero won Manchester City the Premier League.

And for twenty-seven-year-old Andrew Robinson, 2012 was the year that he made his professional boxing debut.

The date was June 22nd, 2012 The young boxer who grew up in Birmingham, travelled to the city of Wolverhampton, where - in the same West Midlands venue that British boxing hero Henry Cooper had knocked out Chip Johnson in 1965 and Jefferson Davis in 1966, he would fight the 31-year-old middleweight southpaw, Bobby Wood.

By the time his bout with Robinson had come around, Walsall lad Bobby Wood had become a seasoned professional boxer, making his 22nd professional appearance.

Fifteen years have passed since the Civic Hall last staged a professional boxing event, but in those days, according to some, it was the best boxing venue in the UK.

It was there, surrounded by the red, white and blue ropes that enclosed the squared circle, amidst the sweat and heat of an atmosphere charged by a vocal and passionate Midlands crowd, that Robinson’s pro boxing career began.

Fighting on the undercard of the Jason Welborn versus Scott Haywood Midlands Area welterweight title fight, and under the watchful eye of referees Gareth Morris and Terry O’Connor, Robinson grabbed his first pro win.

The light heavyweight bout was scheduled for six rounds and went the distance, with Robinson grabbing the victory

via a 59-55 points decision.

Looking back, Robinson said “I came late to it (the sport). I wasn’t one of those boxers who start at the age of eight or nine. I was eighteen and had previously been a power builder. Of the four mates that I joined the gym with in Dudley, I was the only one who stuck it out even though it was two and half hours there and back every day from my home in Redditch.” Robinson, speaking to BCB Promotions. Oct 2019.

His next outing took place in Birmingham. He was up against another southpaw making his debut, Vaclav Skromach. This time they fought at Super Middleweight.

Robinson, now the slightly more experienced of the two boxers, stopped the Czech Republic born fighter in the final round of their bristling four-round encounter.

He stayed at super middleweight for his next three bouts Following his win over Skromach came some eye-catching victories. A return to Wolverhampton Civic Hall for a points win against Dan Phelps before heading to Walsall Town Hall, for the first time in his professional career.

While all the hype surrounded the headline British Welterweight Title fight between Frankie Gavin and Jason Welborn, and the British Light Heavyweight Title fight between Martin Gethin and Ben Murphy, a memorable performance by Robinson also caught the eye.

He made light work of Nuneaton born John Mason - the first-round stoppage came with just three seconds left in the round and extended his unbeaten run to four straight wins.

A busy, unbeaten 2013 for Robin-

son galvanized his growing reputation in the sport. The Mason win was the first of six bouts that year. A points win over the Lithuanian Kiril Psonko came next before Robinson headed to Dudley, where he carved out a points win against Jody Meikle, also known as One Man Riot in a light heavyweight encounter.

Back at super-middleweight, Robinson claimed victories over Gilson De Jesus (pts), Kieron Gray (pts), and in his final bout of the year, Mark Till (pts).

Hull boxer Luke Allon was making a return to the ring after a four-year absence when he fought Robinson in March 2014. His one defeat in five bouts during a stint that lasted from 2008 to 2010 suggested that he may be capable of causing Robinson some problems.

But he unraveled in the fifth round and was floored twice as Robinson secured a stoppage victory.

By October 2014, and courtesy of a further succession of exceptional performances, Robinson’s form and impressive win streak had done enough to convince Frank Warren and Queensbury Promotions that he was ready for his first title challenge.

On a fight card including Dereck Chisora versus Tyson Fury, Billy Joe Saunders versus Chris Eubank Jr and Frankie Gavin versus Bradley Skeete, Robinson, now 13-0-0, would challenge for the vacant WBO European Super Middleweight title.

In a televised clash scheduled for November 2014 at Excel Arena in London, he was up against the big-hitting Londoner, Frank ‘Wise Guy’ Buglioni.

You’re making a difference to keep people safe from COVID-19 We all need to continue our efforts to protect each other.

2m

Get tested if you are worried you may have COVID-19, or have been exposed to the virus.

Wear a face covering when physical distancing is a challenge.

Practice physical distancing, stay two metres apart.

Continue to wash hands frequently.

Inside or out, stay safe. Save lives.

Visit ontario.ca/coronavirus Paid for by the Government of Ontario

PAGE 20

NEWS

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

the the poetic poetic word word Exhausted

BY GLORIA O’KOYE Tired of what’s going on within these streets, I don’t always want to have to say Or post up, RIP It’s exhausting....

There is an addiction...

Watching our people displayed on the screen An addiction...

To keep spilling blood onto a rep sheet As if we don’t already have to fight for our rights to TALK Or RUN Or BREATHE IN PEACE! We have to constantly watch for our backs In our hometown streets Isn’t it exhausting?

For Oscar winning performances Stating race Taking up space in the emergency...

Endangering dogs lives Just to put a person gasping for air Trapped by many knees So exhausting!

When young cats aim to be top dog Only to get put down By internal warfare...

Vultures perching up on trees They mock While they wait for a hearty feast IT’S EXHAUSTING! Commotions Planted within peace Getting the point across That human’s shouldn’t be treated differently Choosing sides When roles

became corrupted If done right in the first place Would’ve there been any riots?

How much longer?

We need some solutions Instead of repeating insanity!

Lignum Honey

Creating a big buzz in the GTA A taste to experience

What shall we do?

Where to start?

Where to go?

Let’s Switch up!

Replenishing...

Spread our wealth Like others with theirs So our economy won’t be Exhausted!

Replenishing...

There is a war on our mind state Never leave your heart unprotected Replaying images and clips To blindside our vision We must remain focused Brainstorming What works?

What doesn’t work?

What’s been tried?

What needs to be tested?

There’s need to be action Instead of black boxes Causing confusion and silence!

Replenish!

We need a solid game plan So this would be a speck in history Instead of stretched baggage!

No more exhaustion We been exhausted for too long To keep saying It’s been exhausting!

NOEL CUNNINGHAM noel@carib101.com

CULINARY REPORTER

“Our company is on a mission to introduce premium Jamaican honey to the rest of the world, and provide Jamaicans with the familiar taste of home through our products.” Ken Benjamin A few weeks ago, I got a message on Instagram from Lignum Honey reaching out to share their product with me, so I could use it in my recipes or provide feedback. When I met with the owner Ken Benjamin; we had a good talk about honey and business; but after I tasted the honey, I decided I couldn’t keep this liquid sunshine secret to myself.

In 2019, Kenneth Benjamin (a software consultant), and his family were returning from their vacation to Jamaica.

While he was at the airport he realized a lot of people were taking back honey and coffee. Right there and then, he put on his business hat and started thinking, “How can I get Jamaican honey in Canada?” After doing some research he found out that a few companies had done it, but they faded out after a while. Although this news was disheartening, he was not going to let that stop him.

He put the ideas out there to friends and family and received enouraging feedback. Ken now realized he had something going. He quickly booked a flight to Jamaican, and within 48 hours, he was home honey hunting. He went to Jamaica and met with the Chief Plant Protection Officer of Agriculture, Minister Hugh Smith, and several others who helped to make his dream viable. He purchased his first stock thinking he would give this a try to test the market. Little did he know, the market was waiting for him.

“Lignum Honey believes that the finest honey in the world can be found within the shores of the island paradise of

Jamaica.”

After receiving his first batch of honey from Jamaica, Ken did a soft launch in December 2019 at the black-owned Christmas market and sold over 250 bottles within a few hours. After this, by just word of mouth, the honey created a buzz and everyone was reaching out wanting this new Jamaican honey. In under 10 days, they sold all the stocks they had on hand.

Lignum Honey sources its 100% natural raw honey from only the finest apiaries in Jamaica, that are committed to natural and responsible practices. “Our honey is freshly bottled after extraction and is not processed to maintain the highest nutritional integrity possible. The combination of the tropical climate and abundant floral sources that flourish in nutrient-rich soil of the island results in a delectable tasting honey that cannot be found anywhere else on earth.”

“Lignum honey is curating perfection with its five different flavors of honey.

If you thought all honey is equal then you are wrong.”

The Mango Blossom is the purest honey, heavy with the redolence of mangoes collected naturally by the honey bees from the blossoms of mango trees grown in Jamaica. A deliciously smooth flavor with fruity notes of mango. A drizzle of this over freshly baked treats will taste just like eating liquid sunshine.

Blue Mountain Coffee honey. Coffee flowers from the blue mountain of Jamaica coffee farms are the primary nectar source for this single-origin honey. Similar to the coffee grown in this part of the world, this distinctively floral honey tastes delectable, with rich notes of lavender and jasmine, and an undernote of cinnamon.

Logwood honey is the honey produced from the blossoms from the logwood tree known for its high quality and light, golden color. This honey is perfect for sweetening your tea. Logwood honey is exclusive only to Jamaica.

Multifloral honey can vary quite a bit from batch to batch as the flowers and plants will change due to the weather. This is both the most common type of honey and also the rarest. Because it is composed of nectars from flowers blooming at a particular period of time in a particular place,

it is essentially impossible to reproduce it exactly from year to year. But often, it has a predominant nectar, or a particular mix of flora, that gives it a recognizable flavor that makes it a prized honey from year to year.

My favorite, the scotch bonnet pepper honey is a beautiful marriage of sweet honey and the delicious spice of Jamaican scotch bonnet pepper. This is the only honey that was infused with other ingredients. All the others are naturally flavored from the blossoms.

Ken says the aim of Lignum Honey is to create a legacy for his family, and to be able to push the culture of Jamaica further.

He believes that Jamaica has way more to offer than just reggae music and rum.

What makes Lignum Honey unique?

It starts with an unwavering slew of sustainability, and it’s 100% natural with no pasteurization. It is like drinking honey straight from the honeycomb. That’s the experience we want to give in a bottle.

“Successful people are consistent learners.”

If you have a business idea inside you, Ken encourages you to pray about it, and ask for guidance from the creator. “Lean not on your own understanding. Take a shot at what you want to do. The knowledge gained will succeed the failures if that’s what happens.” Currently Lignum Honey is Ken’s side gig, but his aim is to go full time by the end of 2020.

Ken recommends keeping a jar of local honey in your home no matter what.

It helps with your immune system and allergies.

During my dialogue with Ken, I could hear the passion, drive, and determination for honey, and bringing a taste of Jamaica to Canada. Lignum honey can be purchased online at www.lignumhoney. com. You can also visit their Instagram and Facebook @Lignum.honey for honey inspiration and creative ways to enjoy your honey. You can give Linum a call at 647866-7716.

Lignum Honey has some great products in store for you. Stay tuned for the ginger honey, and other Jamaican flavors such as the strawberry honey.

GEM S Wholesale Meat & Fish Shop

SALE PRICES VALID FROM JUNE 24TH - JULY 7TH 2020

Lobster Tails, Crab Legs, Crawfish, Shrimp, Conch Meat and Crab Leg Clusters NOW AVAILABLE Monday: 10:00am - 6:00pm | Tuesday:10:00am - 6:00pm | Wednesday: 10:00am - 6:00pm | Thursday: 10:00am - 7:00pm Friday: 10:00am - 8:00pm | Saturday: 9:00am - 6:00pm | Sunday: 10:00am - 4:00pm

BOX 99

BOX 99

43

Snapper Fish

2

Salmon Steaks

Nupak White Rice (8kg)

/LB

10

Seasoned Jerk Chicken

29

Seasoned Curry Goat

8

Nupak Coconut Cream

0

49

10LBS 99

15

99 /EA

35

King Fish

10LBS 99

49

Woodfire Burnt Cowfoot

39

Jamaican Pride Red Kidney Beans

1

BOX 99

/LB

99 /EA

99

Frozen Chicken Breast

Grace Frozen Jerk Chicken Wings (750g)

/LB

10

99 /EA

AVAILABLE IN STORE JULIE, EAST INDIAN MANGOES, ESCALLION, THYME, BREADFRUIT & CALLALOO FRESH FROM JAMAICA

SEASONED OXTAIL, SEASONED STEAK, CURRY GOAT, CURRY CHICKEN, BBQ CHICKEN & JERK CHICKEN RUTHERFORD RD.

KENNEDY RD.

QUEEN ST.

GLIDDEN RD.

SELBY RD.

STEELES AVE.

GEM S Wholesale Meat & Fish Shop

55 Selby Rd. Unit 2A Brampton ON L6W 1K5 TEL: 905.457.2378 | WE’RE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!

GEM S Wholesale Meat & Fish Shop

HUNGRY? CHECK OUT OUR RESTAURANT LOCATIONS FOR DAILY SPECIALS! MONDAY Stew Chicken

Includes a water or a pop

6

00 +TAX

TUESDAY Fried Chicken

Includes a water or a pop

6

00 +TAX

WEDNESDAY Jerk Chicken Includes a water or a pop

6

00 +TAX

THURSDAY Curry Chicken Includes a water or a pop

9980 Airport Road, Unit 5 Brampton, ON

20 Gillingham Dr. Unit 605 Brampton, ON

TEL: 905.494.0944

TEL: 905.453.6454

(BOVAIRD & AIRPORT RD.) ALSO AVAILABLE FOR DELIVERY THROUGH

(BOVAIRD & HURONTARIO)

6

00 +TAX

PAGE 22

FEATURE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

THE DIVINELY DEDICATED

DANIEL COLE Photo Credit: OAkridge

“Geography matters to your rise in life. I have always believed that we don’t rise to the level of our gifts and potentials; we rise to the level of our systems, be it political or socio-economic. It takes more effort to thrive in certain places.”

When Daniel Cole speaks of his life narrative, it is synonymous to the phoenix rising from the ashes. Born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, Daniel Cole has first hand experience of being raised in a polygamous home. When I first read his bio, it was the detail that caught my interest. I was curious as to how this had shaped him as a man. He started by giving me his thoughts on polygamy.

“African fathers pride themselves on how may children they can father. My mom was the second wife, and that was the beginning of my struggle. I have never seen a peaceful polygamous home. There was a lot of drama. With all the drama, one thing that my mother ensured was that I was disciplined. She also ensured that I had a strong sense of spirituality.”

To this day, Daniel displays a discipline and diligence that is unicorn in fashion.

His pursuit for higher education, and continuous personal development has their genesis in his childhood.

“I remember days when my mom would make me stay home, and read. I was not out playing. I was home reading a book I didn’t want to read. As a child, you need to grow holistically. I did not have a social life.

I truly believe that part of my life has positively, and negatively affected me.”

“You have mentioned that word discipline a few times during our dialogue.

What did discipline look like for you Daniel,”

I prompted.

“Discipline looks like spending a lot of time by myself, working on my education. It also shows in my religion. Every Friday, Monday, and Tuesday, the whole family would fast. I would be like ‘Mom, your killing us!’

In our day and age this type of forced fasting would be seen as abuse. I would sometimes sneak into the kitchen, and get some food the day before the fast.

I knew I wouldn’t be eating. It was quite extreme. I don’t blame them; this was just how I was raised. This is what they knew and they taught us.”

His discipline played out tremendously in his working life. From a young age, his upbringing set a tone for inevitable success.

“I started out my career in Sales and Marketing, working for a Telecommunication company called Vodafone while pursuing a Diploma in Computer Science at the time. To be working and studying at the same time is one thing, but to work in sales, study, and live in Lagos is a different ball game. I often joke with some of my friends now, telling them, “If you can survive in Lagos, you can survive and thrive anywhere else in the world.”

After completing his Diploma in Computer Science, he immigrated to South Africa. He has strong opinions on relocation.

I know that it is not easy to leave your home, and venture to another country, so I was curious as to what prompted him to make that decision.

“Geography matters to your rise in life. I have always believed that we don’t rise to the level of our gifts and potentials; we rise

to the level of our systems, be it political or socio-economic. It takes more effort to thrive in certain places.

I went to God to empower me to help people back home. Some of my friends back home are struggling; and it is not because they are not brilliant, the socio-economic situations do not allow them to thrive.

The country is not giving them the opportunity they need to become a success. There are people filled with potential, but they are finding it difficult to rise.

I don’t know if I would have achieved what I have if I stayed in Lagos I came here six years ago. It was not comfortable the first two years, but it was way better than back home.”

Daniel has always been an avid reader. He told me of a time when he spent his whole salary buying books. He has even taken it to the next level, and has taken courses from prestigious universities across the world. Harvard, University of Pennsylvania, University of Washington, Case Western Reserve University to name a few. He is currently pursuing a degree with the University of South Africa. “I love education. I love studying. If I have nothing to do, I look for what university is having what, and I apply. I take one course from a prestigious university every year.”

In his first two years living in South Africa, he started writing a column on Success and Personal Development for a Community Newspaper that now has over 35,000 copies in print. He also currently writes a success column for the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper.

He founded a training company (The International Institute of Personal De-

velopment, South Africa), an organization positioned to deliver training on different personal development courses such as: negotiation dynamics, emotional intelligence, and conflict resolution.

A few years ago, he co-authored a book with Stewart Andrew Alexander alongside other authors across the world. He followed this up with a small e-book

“The Science of Success” which is available on Amazon. He continues to add to his resume, hosting on show on Radio station, 89.1 (Alex FM) with a listenership of over 130,000. To stamp his seal of success, he recently signed a content partnership with the YouVersion Bible App, which licensed him to write and publish a Devotional plan on the platform.

With over 340 million people using the App, his devotional content is now accessible to a global audience.

Daniel Cole’s story, journey and short life experience is that of hope, faith and resilience.

“I believe no one should go through life as a spectator. We all have gifts, talents, abilities, and my life mission is to ensure I use what I have and know to help people rise and become the best version of themselves.”

Written by Simone Smith Toronto Caribbean News

WITH OVER 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WHO ELSE WOULD YOU TRUST?

Jay &Anjie Brijpaul

ADVANCED SELLING SYSTEM

House matching services Mass email to prospective Buyers Targeted Social media Advertising 3- D virtual tours

$1,150,000

$939,900

2- Master Bedrooms

Be the First Lady

Accent of Value. Located in beautiful Scarborough. Hop, Skip and Jump to school. This impressive home features 4 bedrooms, Master bedroom with full ensuite, combined living and dining room, open concept family room and a basement apartment. Upgrades with quartz counter, laminate and hardwood floors and stone driveway.

Smart Buy!

5 Vespahills Cres.

Approx. 3200 sq feet with 6 washrooms plus finished basement.

Features include a main floor master bedroom with high ceilings and tall windows, walk in closet and large separate shower. There are 3 additional bedrooms on the upper floor and a huge sitting area. The basement is finished with 3 bedrooms and separate entrance.

$949,000

$499,900

SMOOTH, SMART AND RAMBLING

We Invite you to inspect

Grand double door entry to an open concept foyer and living room with 20 feet ceiling. There is a main floor office, family room with fireplace and a large open concept kitchen and private dining area.

There are 4 bedrooms with 3 full washrooms on the upper level and the basement is nicely finished, all open concept with the furnace located to the corner. It’s yours to discover.

Affordable town home with 3 bedrooms, laminate floors, finished basement and a privately fenced lot. Include fridge, stove, washer and dryer. Call today.

$559,900

$499,900 X-LARGE, LUXURY - SOLD

Sparkling - SOLD 431 Silverstone unit 48

Live streaming Electronic Signature We take all precautions

Exquisitely modern with dark laminates, quarts counters, flush mount led lights, spacious master bedroom with Romeo and Juliet balcony, washroom with soaker tub, a second bedroom with large closet and gate security.

A gem in a quiet Etobicoke complex. Features include new laminate floors, modern kitchen and updated baths. Impressive home with a fenced lot and finished basement. Include 3 bedrooms and 3 washrooms.

3500+ HOMES

TheBrij.com

* Sales mean both buyer and seller transactions from 1990 to 2016, Team Sales combined.

Anjie Brijpaul,

Direct: 416.988.5369 Office: 416-745-2300

MA Sales Representative

Jay Brijpaul, Broker, FRI

Direct: 416.418.2745 (BRIJ) Office: 416-745-2300

96 Rexdale Blvd.

Toronto ON M9W 1N7

*

www.danforthfoodmarket.com We’re simply the best West Indian store in town.

99

Grace Sweetened Condensed Whitener 297 ml

each

1

99

Whine It Up Non Alcoholic Wine Assorted 750 ml

each

4

99

Saporito Vegetable or Canola Oil 2.84 lt

Dunn’s River Mackerel in Tomato Sauce 200 g

Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil 25’ SF

¢

each

2

$ 3/

79

¢

each Each

Peardrax Sparkling Pear Drink 300 ml

Twist Shandy Carbonated Lemon Drink 310 ml

Grace Virgin Coconut Oil 500 ml

99

each

99

Nutrament Energy Nutritional Drink 355 ml

Sun Della Citrus Punch

each 3.78 lt

9

99 2/

2

$

20 2/

2

$

50 2/

Sunlight Dishwashing Liquid Sky Blue 400 ml

¢

$

Mr Goudas Green Pigeon Peas 444 ml

¢

Grace Syrup Assorted 750 ml

Grace Hominy Corn 400 g

Lucozade Glucose Dink

1

$ 2/

Applewood Seaweed

3

2

Realemon Lemon Juice

2

Mr. Goudas Yellow Corn Meal

7

Face Mask

7

1

79 each each

5

69 each

79

¢

Assorted 380 ml

Assorted 480 g

946 ml

each 15 lb

3

SGT Skynworks Hand Sanitizer 250 ml

99 each

3 ply pkg of 10

99 each

39

each

29

each

99 each

99 pkg

lb

Jamaican Brown Stew Frozen or Previously Frozen Pork Spare Ribs

case of 18 kg

with purchase of 2 cases or more

Fresh Chicken Soup Bones

Burned Goat Head

Frozen Goat Meat

7

5

2

2

1

Fresh Lane Snapper

Fresh Mutton Snapper

Frozen King Fish Steak

Fresh Porgy Fish

Burned Cow Foot

49 49 79 59 $ 99 $ $ $ $ /pkg lb lb bag lb

Fresh Seafood Catches

Fresh Whole Salmon

3

5

6

5

2

$ 49 $ 99 $ 99 $ 99 $ 99 lb as is

Fresh Jamaican Sweet Potato

lb as is

Fresh Jamaican Pumpkin

lb as is

lb

4

99

69

lb

lb

lb as is

Sweet Haden Mangoes

Fresh Jamaican Cooking Banana

1 3 1 Six Locations To Serve You Better 99

lb

99

3/

Specials in Effect Thu. June 25th until Wed. July 1st, 2020.

Store Hours

Monday-Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 8 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 7 pm

Danforth Food Market 301 Silverstone Dr. A l b 416-740-9870

ion

Roa

d

Finch Ave. W .

Store Hours

Monday-Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 9 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 8 pm

Danforth Food Market 651 Markam Rd. 416-439-6397

Lawrence Ave. E .

Store Hours

Monday-Friday 9 am to 9 pm Saturday 9 am to 9 pm Sunday 9 am to 7 pm

Steeles Ave. E .

Danforth Food Market 3051 Pharmacy Ave North Finch 416-490-9219

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

Bloor St. E.

Danforth Food Market 1225 Dundas St. Dixie & Dundas Missisauga 905-949-9990

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 .

Sheppard Ave. W .

Sheppard Ave. E .

Steeles Ave. W.

Dixie Rd.

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.

Cawtra Rd.

9

99 39

95

¢ $

Pharmacy Rd.

9

Chicken Leg (Drumsticks) Chicken Leg Quarters Back Attached

lb

Markam Rd.

h

lb

Don’t Over Cook Your Oxtail;45 Minutes Top! YOU DON’T PAY FOR FAT NOR CUT-UP WASTE!

Martin Grove Rd.

9

Frozen

Frozen

Frozen or Previously Frozen

$ 99 $ 99 $ 49 4 1

D r.

h

5

Fresh Beef Kidney

Salted Boneless Beef

Si lv er st on e

9

Delicious Jamaican Dish

Oxtail

Keele St.

9

Fat Trimmed Soft & Tender Milk Fed

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

PAGE 26

FOOD

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Caribbean Style

BEEF STEW

Tender and Flavourful NOEL CUNNINGHAM Ingredients noel@carib101.com

CULINARY EXPERT

This easy beef stew recipe is a favourite of my grandmother. This is a musthave dish for her at least once per week. This hearty stew is packed with aromatics, potatoes and carrots which lends the stew a depth of flavours you can’t resist. It’s the perfect homemade dish for a simple midweek dinner or on a Sunday with rice and peas and a fresh garden salad. What kind of meat do you use for beef stew? I usually recommend using chuck meat for beef stew. Chuck meat is cut from the front shoulder. It’s a relatively cheap cut, with great flavour for stew and has lots of connective tissue and fat, making the best choice for stews.

The flip side is that chuck is made up of different muscles, so you’re more likely to get irregular pieces—some leaner, some fattier, some more tender, some tougher. Overall, it averages out in a good stew. If you find prepackaged meat labelled “stew meat” at the store, it’s good to ask the meat counter worker what type of cut was used. A good stew will take at least an hour max to cook.

This beef stew is the ultimate, hearty, melt-in-your-mouth comfort food, and so easy to make. This is a great recipe to use in your slow cooker on a busy day. Now is your chance to make your own beef stew at home just like mama did. You will enjoy the inviting aroma while it is cooking, to the rich taste in every bite of this beef stew.

This recipe promises warmth, comfort and satisfaction.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 tablespoon canola oil 2 1/2 pounds boneless beef stew meat (such as chuck), cut into 1-inch cubes Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 medium white onion, finely chopped 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1teaspoon smoked paprika powder 3 tablespoon tomato paste 1 scotch bonnet pepper seeded and minced 2 medium cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons) 1 cup beef stock or water 1/2 teaspoon pimento 4 sprigs fresh thyme 2 stalks scallion 1 tablespoon soy sauce 2 potatoes washed, peel and diced 1 large carrot washed, peeled and diced

Directions Heat oil in a pot over high heat until smoking. Season with the first seven ingredients. Add beef to the pan and cook without moving until wellbrowned on one side, about 6 minutes. Stir to loosen the meat. Add tomato paste and stir to combine then add beef stock or water if used and cook for 15-20 minutes then add remaining ingredients and simmer over low flame, stirring constantly and adding water as needed.

Continue cooking until meat is tearapart-tender when pierced with a fork, about 20 minutes and serve with rice or pasta.

FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS • We can assist with getting the 10% deposit.

• We will help with financing.

• We will show you how to get an income property • Ask about our after sale bonus

DENTURE CLINIC

That improves your smile Marcia James, DD DENTURIST (Denture Specialist)

HOME SELLERS

We will lend you money for pre-sale renovations

• Implant Denture • Complete Full Denture • Night Mouth Guard • Sport Mouth Guard • Partial Acrylic Denture • Immediate Denture • Partial Metal Denture • Reline and Rebase

Bain F. Thompson

Real Estate Professional

Tel: 416-898-5192 Contact us regarding our fantastic referral program!

ALL INSURANCE ACCEPTED | SAME DAY REPAIRS DONE IN CLINIC @Team.Bain

Sutton Summit Realty - 33 Pearl St. Mississauga, ON, L5M 1X1 905-897-9555

CALL FOR APPOINTMENT

852 Bathurst St.

416.317.9763 Toronto ON M5R 3G1

20 Polonia Ave. Brampton ON L6Y 0K9

Mobile Service Available

BUY • SELL • INVEST • LEASE RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL

“I have the key to your new home!”

Basant Sharma Sales Representative 647-286-SOLD (7653) basant.sharma@hotmail.com

Megacity Realty Inc. Brokerage 30 Intermodal Dr., Unit 36, Brampton ON L6T 5K1 Tel: 905-599-2900 | Fax: 905-413-0029

Job sites from Oshawa all the way to London

Combine & Save

We are looking for hard working, skilled, restoration workers with experience in any of these categories:

Insure your

+

and SAVE

an average of

$ 483

*

Contact me for personalized service and advice.

Ask about our many other discounts to help you save.

CONCRETE RESTORATION WATERPROOFING BALCONY RESTORATION SWING STAGE WINDOW INSTALLATION MASONRY REPAIRS CAULKING UNDERGROUND GARAGE RESTORATION SEND RESUME TO careers@brookrestoration.ca

|

www.brookrestoration.ca

|

Abdool Gafoor

Newmarket Agency 17725 Yonge Street North, Unit 9

(289)824-7036 319-0659 416

AGafoor@allstate.ca

Terms and conditions apply. *Average multi-product discount savings is calculated using Allstate’s base rates in April 2019 for ON. Your savings may vary.

Coverage, perils, discounts and availability may vary by region. Rates and discounts subject to change. Trademark owned by Allstate Insurance Company used under licence by Allstate Insurance Company of Canada. ©2019 Allstate Insurance Company of Canada. 003E | 193193 | 6-19

?

G I t o G Follow Us

Follow Us @TOCaribNews

E R O M & • S Y A W A E V I G • S EST

T N O C • S E T A D NEWS • UP

ISSUE E6 •

VOLUM

H UARY 10T SDAY, JAN

2018

DNE 23 • WE

HING EVERYT

PAPER

AN.COM

!

MS A REALITY

RIBBE NTOCA

EA KE YOUR DRof your mortgage, our services arethefree.banks cannot.�

E: • ONLIN -722-6298

TORO

TO ADV

ERTISE:

what E: 647 LP MA I can do for you ation to the signing From first consultns, and it’s especially then that I CAN HE not the banks!

TIS TO ADVER

VOLUME

E NEWS

ED IN ON

YOU NE

“I work for you, most challenging credit solutio TGAGES only for the E! • PRIVATE •MOR A fee is charged D AND MOR MORTGAGES

Mortgage Agent

Group 12619

a

Agent |

Broker Financ

ial Group

NCES •

VOLUME 6

12619

SOCIAL LOVE AND STATUS HEARTS JAN ESDAY,

WEDN 24 •

UE 98 7 • ISS 416-875-4523 SE: 647-722-62 VOLUMETO ADVERTI

| Broker Financial

CALL ME TODAY! I CAN HELP!

dele.c www.charlesayo broker.ca charles@bfg

CHA AYODRELES LE

CALL MEPER TODAY! NEWSPA I CAN HELP

416-875- A REALITY! www.c 4523 9I CAN HELP MAKE YOUR lesa charles harDREAMS UARY @bf yodele.

NEED IN ONE

ED YOU NE

.COM gbroke “I work forRIBB you, notEAN the banks!

From first consultation to the signing ofr.ca yourca mortgage, our services are free.

A fee is ONT chargedOCA only for the most challenging credit solutions, and it’s especially then that I can do for you what the banks cannot.�

DAY, FEB RUA

RY 20 2019

ON

EVERYTH

TO

EVERYTHING YOU NEED IN ONE NEWSPAPER

#TOCaribNews

CALL ME TODAY! I CAN HELP!

VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3 2019

IBBEA

EVERYTHING YOU NEED IN ONE NEWSPAPER

HECLPLIN

TO ADVERTISE: 647-722-6298 • ONLINE: TORONTOCARIBBEAN.COM

charles@bfgbroker.ca WR WKH G LV RSHQXVLQHVV U\RQH DQ J IRU HYHDQ HQWUHSUHQHXU E L]DWLRQ VRPHWKLQ Love DUH WHG RUJDQ H JUHDW I \RXis anLW\ D IÀOLD 6RFLDO emo VRP tionDNH and PXQ %XVLQHVV ven- SXEOLF , Vale that FRP ntine weU VXF Con QQXDO 7& EH ’sWR P AN all feel, RZQHU RU DayXU SO bratH SOD WKH WK D at the Pearson e it.FH WR is aDQ IR The day to cele- is complete TO CARIBBE hearH \R WR DWWHQG RON WKLV LV WK bol G FRQWLQX t is the inter ANESHA PREM O/TO ly V y new on May 6th, 2018 pton!

Busi- FRQQsym of HFWLRQV DQ MAHADE national payroll for thisnon-profit; ther & %XVLQHV Bram RAJ/TORO with ever , the TC d love, H and 7 ALYSSA e is in the ther NTO CARI char fund Q IRU Center in in its 4th year SURYLGH EXVL- FHVVdren LQ goals? As y of us spen e are Carib RI WK tion GDWLR new BBEAN serio JRDO chil- help s raised by this ity. 100% of no for the foun , bean IRXQ WR man Now DQG 7KH us that have hearWH to exFUHDWHG opportunity toH a D VWURQJ pren New year rolls around, dation. charity goesthe many \HDU JRQHre us. very get ing children FUHD t issue baby an s. Imageurs SURLV WR with 6RFLDO ZDV WLPL] entre DO befo in the Carib to that fun activities The Gala had ine year that FWLQJ RQ DQRWKHU QW RU nals with havi very , QHVV ers aand R KHOS RSt is an 6RFL sue, one set ng full the help they FXUUH own serio but WKHLU bean abouwas full of dona such as a raffle notOLVK ness us LDO E WLPH UHà Hise of the new most of this yearS ness professioG WHFKQLTXHV W RQ ng even hearULQJV havi 6RF thro t is-W persof volunteers need. The team QV busi ted t the TCCF the mea 7KH RU HVWDE PRV ugh theV YHQ FH WR JUDVQG OHDUQ VNLOOV DQ potential! This that dedi WXUHV the promlve to make the is WKH SDWURLW\ SDQG LW\¡V onal surg ns FKDQ entin that gavegifts, a quiz to PXQ ly WKHU time ery, ness WKHU go hear cate their VLQHV e’s it mustV beWR VKDUH children FRP PV D to help We reso YDQWDJH RI DQR akingI WKH their busi W\ WR EULQJ WRJH WKH FRPPXQ MHFWHG EXtbre RXU GUHD a DJ to Day chocolate and away Vala truof the foun ensure that expe QDULH WKH EHVW R rienc YLVLR dance the WKHU This H ODWHVW cialized med the even WDNLQJ DGSSRUWXQLWLHV FKDVH of course e.

RSSRUWXQLQHVV RZQHUV RI RWKHUV DERXW WKHLU WLYH datio WRJH is FH WK wha FUHD Child n two URGX QFHV V RInigh

t was get ical care ren’sH Foun V DQtG LQW DWH EXVL The Carib VLQHV possible.

PLVVHG R Q QHZ H[SHULH for many, SURGXFWLY DQG as quicklyspe- well-dre full of generoust away. This DQG HGXF DQG VHUYLFHV WKH\H DQG temp FWLFHdatio bean HS WKH EX EHVW SUD (TCC , extremely HPEDUN RUnfortunately FN WR RXU VDPH ROG YDWLY as to supp ssed people to RQ KRZ WnR NH WR QHWZRUN XFWV WKHLUting F) is at- 5 On solve W WR UH- LQGLYLGXDO SURG VKDULQJ WKH LQQRHU JURZ DQG DFKLHYHPHQWV help W This On KW ED ort the caus who were prou Page TCCF host Saturday, Febr W GLIĂ€FXO QG FXUUHQ .tinu ed caus

ZH¡UH ULJ DOVR IXUWK KHU ed a Vale e. d uary 9th, e that Con ZHHNV LQ WLYH KDELWV ,W¡V QR EXW LW¡V DQRW JK IHU ZKLOH KDW WKH\ FDQ PRUH EXVLQHVV PRGHO IUHVK D ntine celebrated WR EULQJ love and ’s Day Gala XQSURGXFVWDUW D \HDU VWURQJ \ IROORZ WKURX H XQLTXH ZD\V W Continue HLU EUDQG raised fund WKRV LV FRPd On Page VROYH WR WRJHWKHU WR DFWXDOO H[SDQG WK s R DFKLHYH

6RFLDO 7 way. %XVLQHVV RQH SURYLGLQJ PDWWHU DOH WKDW FRPPLWPHQW W H their 7KH 7& Virtual Tours GR WR PDNWR DQG PDN HYHQWV LQ J WR WZR and KABRE JRLQ RI High RURQ Down payme NA Qualit ROBINS JRDOV :KDW DUH \RX SULVHG HD Photo ON/TOR ULQJ WKH 7 nt Loans - yCash ONTO s to Attrac CARIBBEAN W" 7KLV 6S ally invites you In Jamaic

t more Back Mortg Buyers a, a central It GLIIHUHQ age form is BEAN Offers er \HDU not and popular* belief that /TORO WKLV “educaNTO tionCARIB March aiscointiseâ€?. n Newspap cidence it all starts at is the key to tan Caribbea 2nd SIMONE SMITH that Sat and, 2019, Inc success the s ofâ€? Reg elemen rnity Real urday, was child’s On dec First & Seco Estate tary stages Friday, life. Frate overwhelmed Alpha day Howev a gae Can16th Phi 87thAgen 647 laredSeptem t thaof founda er, with Daytion ber ada. Sat nd Mortgag by the their dave@sea inadequ ; it was t as ng7-7 hosted the urd hundre ate-86 a the Alpha hosti founda theirTi-12thmem from such 809 nfactors support tion has been ongoing Equ draising es also es entio alty.cresourc ay nig to facilita ds ofgala annual the across ity Loa oration in rchre as they were educati the s of Delta Sigm fun- commu te student |Conv receiving SIMO dave.sear nala institut ht over the ground nsH/TO regon Hou s the Regioonal was the from $5000 of from NE to. gae nity Club by the sister and the broth- –Midwestern GTAinfille se in dow s ofting ions,chrea theSMIT a com Donald theebr XFDWLRQ Toronto fans sen in Toron lty.co dream Deb years. theapas great “I DO IXOĂ€O timeOPHQW F of ed- nto d the. Hosted RON - $50 t Con - and ening nized ity Inc., sts, Nathan ate the reggae CP24 t, presenarti , thisDVLO\ GH DQ EH H wn Toro am Opera by of stillrep Downe Onefirst anchor has coll solidation TO CARIBBE 0,000 always happit is no Theta Soror Phi Alpha Fraternity for the very 50 Village toreorganiz r,,the this day journe . what pop ation know nto t, accomp did not AN Centre amazed can be and futu Hom featured an evening corn bit fosterin ularWHUUHG who y ofofone to event Pl Suite ataborated with With so much liveofauction ucoepia Missis cel-entertai a much-n those ed gen of Toronto, events ers of Alpha ais little mandat Refi lished 100 For ng sauga, g re when city together with e res eedReg to s, Titanment looki improv great ofnan ON we come the mo of Ă€QH ora rs event gae L4Z artists was discce e childhood ns of and GLQLQJ &es. like-minded individ 1V9educain the tion tion across the . Rooted mu Hom sic inWRSSHG Inc. iplin inated Goo st -DPDLF had visito in hase there are some Reggae a passion to support incl ZLWK neighbo dsor Purc a the wor orchDQ by weekend as we island. ude Tha or unatin the Hisecoll Less This coordDelta Hotel reggae estr wonder that lyuals FXLVLQH working was an rhood, and AN s r- like Caribana, The . The only ld; those inMol Johwith ated eveposition Eglimusic unnoticed, abn U.S.A in scen IBBE nso Toless the go Goo an nto Cra Helping the at at fortuna exquisi s,â€? vibe incr and of the with n CAR may e d he n ig, reambian nt put te and blosso Cred a wav Jamaic teFou Hands edibly & Confe Foundation seeks that his Mortgage Agentsaid. island Toronto rttinu arti it all parts ce. TheWes took place t brough nde and on Airpo is why the team event toTO of Cult cha

by And we havetosuch License L/TORON lanthro Musica considerableWynton Mar sts Helping e of Jamamed “impro reggae in the activi- from time #12275 pists, ot Toron out hwo a conend the that ve gthe Hands tended. Thisbean Newspaper takes visitin phi- r next generat is week rew Jamaic Arti salis, l Dire CASSEL Marri lives ofaica 197entrepr NA ers icans rep eneurs the other stic the a and mu ion The LQVLGH 0s started TAL -KAY eld rks. uta Amer ctor and bers ir tion of e. of n and Carib of lti-i g Dire afte Jamaic other all home her of the in tion as imm nt nities time is durinans and UNA enceipa tion YAhimTONE commu Andrew WKH &RQVXO 12th ties memronto r a in duc nstr ctor *HQHUDO s 2IĂ€FH includi igracommu of our y, April umentAnne their efounda nity cord amou sift through SHA e em a by creating anc Centr nts mad rtsFrida CAL ute to Qui Cra for our ngL OR support to proY in tion’s er, dire n on Bonner RI alist,Marie effo ig is after Harbou of ctor ay, ghtSund at theonsame bega the time tofind the novel, uniqu ourr ties the born n- April our cityeducati ecause ducnatalya@lendm TEX the nto,continu fou system through a world-class livesToro a voc Hale, ed ncy y on o cast cou T in of rfro who d alis , es Ont Falmou 416 ida Jon com n delive ion of end. wh was and orefina er“buildi through educati 5 ent in nt’s-837 for Nel this snde investm frastruc ario lly ende s to a atio officia who has week occas poser, and t,th pro Jamaic r inentou ors noise ng concep a hol ture, resourc , to wor On Page event a, introdu - Cen onâ€?. sona Manes, twoncial.ca inper| www.le trib--546 0 to support elling as lus mom ancest It inc e materia ced n Caribana Fou a Epsilo a ion Continued brohis comp weekend, tre, and President of ls, and experKarend k in mu had thet gre III, and dela at formndmore aand ad-homela anc- financial.ca . This ablished and was na 14th.

Sigm oci nd. y Lee Helping aa of unity est ty, ula at maica, OM mu t the ers ltip Ass alit itt of anz Hands comm fort Ma Karl Hale express le musica broth anzaa to Chap ContinuedNIOn JaTelevisi sic compos Rogers une Dew withturactivi to our was firs for sthe e, dequ is im-ter nia. tKw robus Kw Toron to � say Page 7on. l genres 6, bytoDr. wasifor itions gages ed that cul invite SIMONE SMITH/TORONTO - the ans, it own try, Cal da an for in 196Toron icannally Canadi aseorgaperso Canadi land, & Second MortCARIBBEAN ,000he is Afr our Virtu theLamb

TOARTOESNTO HTAHN ASGH OF EDTSITANS CELETBARKEOVER CANADA SCARBOROUGH AA Z N A W REPRESENTING K BUY - SELL

- IN

VEST NFIDENC E

WITH CO

DAVE JO HN

SON

Powered DLC BedrockFin by ancial Group Lic 12275

BUY - SE

WITH COLL - INVE NFIDEN ST CE

adithe Can phr al ToursFirst we end - of “As African building the Swaahili , 2019, n (CKA) cel-n in Oak and week in were itions doors in 2004, Proper Television – have and Highfilled with in from $5000 - $500 ted d Down paym trad been For all. my rice burning, too much atio Firem&aIce, Quali rica uary 1st the har tion beg rooatten Loan to ty HDsPhot cooks from entyLoan Equit s and its of On Jananzaa Associ the Pan-Af ived fro tant to meant salt are is os to Attra ndation s - This of life. – ctalong using, overcooking friends out dwho is the producer behind MAS- all walks por custom es a fou tion Backyear and der “first fru e wasra in the there, olida altime more Buye ase Mortgage an Kw d Kwanzaa, Philips Squ phasize ConstoCash givcomeâ€?for be local celebrithe makcultur ervanc aning, Debtsoon rs Offeres*Purch anzaahasrne y‌ emanoth- TERCHEF CANADA – has become with our ebrate y, at Nathan first time;clama- me t.â€? The obs ican diaspos) recon-er round ance & Hom and Kw international figure t of MASTERCHEF CANADA! one of Canada’s most successful ty- stands an: t jou e Refin tha holidaonto for the adian pro ada’s veshelp the Afr n African begin favorite culinary competi7 ture. The a cyber security a companies. They have skater,Hom Real Canada’s Good Credi Estaanalyst, Than Page production in Tor the first Canweek in Can n lit to ericas or (pa te Agen Less . Buyers 647-8 ican Cul orand by pan more Lee ed On e@ssalesman, an entrepreneur. tion is in their 6th season, and they strategically worked across a wide davcar Good t to Attract - e Offers* brated their Afrcele HD Photos ing it Kwanzaa onto 3D Sig hrealty.c67-7809 com Continupremiere range of genres, and are respon- Thisearc re- Am Quality Back Mortgag and Hight Loans year they will be competing for return with a two-hour rld to a | dav nect to now isTours Virtual tion for The Tor d green, rep e.se A TONEY the wo- Cash ity, and es n paymen even day

L - INVEST E BUY -HSEL CONFIDENC WIT

DAVE JO HN

SON

Continu

ed On Pag

YOU ONLY NEE A DAY TO MAKD A FEW MINUTES E A LIVING

WITH S

ED IN

NTOCARIB • BEAN ONLIN.COM E: TORO NTOCAR

e5

First & Sec

on

!

BY

9

POWERED BY

416-875-4523

www.charlesayodele.ca

POWERED

ING YOU NEEEV TO AD TO VERTISE D IN ERONE RTISE: 647-7 SPECIALIZING IN 1st & 2nd MORTGAGES • PRIVATEADVE MORTGAGES YTHIN NEW : 647-72 22-6298 • SPAPER G YO ONLINE: TORO REFINANCES • NEW TO CANADA • SELF EMPLOYED • AND MORE! 2-6298 U NE

Mortgage Agent | Broker Financial Group 12619

2-6298

: 647-72

ISE ADVERT

REALITY

and it’s espe of your 1st & 2nd cially then mortgage, our NEW TO MO serv that I can CANADARTGAGES • do for you ices are free. what the • SELF EM PRIVATE MO banks cann PLOYED RTGAG ot.�

ES • AND MO RE! R 20TH 2017 8 • ISS UE 2 • WEDN ESDAY, MARC H 6 201

• ISSUE 15 • WEDNESDA VOLU Y,ME SEPTEMBE

PER

PA E NEWS

IN ON

HING CHARLES OM EAN.C ARIBB NTOC AYODELE E: TORO

EVERYT

• ONLIN

!

TOR • ONLINE:

• WEDNES

NEED IN

E NEWS TORONT PAPER I C:A N HOCA RIBBEA ELP MAN.CKOM A fee is char “I work for you, E YOUR not ged only for the mosthe banks! From DREAM first t challeng SPECIA ing credit consultation to the solutions SA sign REFINA LIZING IN ing ,

POWERED BY

Mortgage

HING YOU EVERYT 2019

ING YOU

8 • ONL INE

IN 1st & 2nd • SELF EMPLOYE SPECIALIZING• NEW TO CANADA 17 2019 DAY, APRIL REFINANCES • WEDNES • ISSUE 5 VOLUME 8

CHARLESE AYODEL

8 • ISSU E1

EVERYTH

647-722-629

ONE NE

N.COM

WSPAPE

R

HEALTH

Wednesday, June 24, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 29

Chiropractic and men’s health drpuri@carib101.com

HEALTH SPECIALIST

Unfortunately, a great number of men do not seek care until after they experience some sort of pain. In the event of Father’s Day and June being Men’s Health Month, help encourage your grandfather, father, brother and other loved ones to get a complete chiropractic assessment! Chiropractic care has many benefits for men of all ages such as: decrease in hypertension, increased immunity, improved muscular energy and strength, better posture, headache relief, improved quality of sleep, and an overall healthier level of wellbeing. Let us look at these in greater detail.

Decrease in hypertension The risks of high blood pressure can become fatal over time, not to mention heart disease and stroke are the leading causes of death worldwide. Many patients are led to treat this with prescription medication, which can become costly and ineffective

Increased immunity Fathers are often seen as the backbone of a family; therefore, their health is essential.

Similarly, our spine is the medium used as the connection between our mind and body. Spinal misalignments, known as subluxations, decrease nerve flow out to our body, increasing stress hormone levels and the result is decreased immunity. In summary, these spinal “disturbances” exaggerate the flight or fight response which has a negative effect on immune function. However, when subluxations are removed through chiropractic adjustments, stress hormone levels reduce and our immune system is free to work more effectively at defending our bodies against bacteria, fungi, and (in light of the COVID-19 pandemic) even viruses.

Improved muscular energy and strength It is common for men to experience lower back pain from all the hard work or the physical activities they often partake in. Whether it be from being a handyman or lifting heavy

objects around the house. These physical stresses are often the cause of spinal subluxations that negatively impact our health.

In men this can especially manifest as decreased libido, mood, and digestive issues, along with body aches and pains.

Slouching and bad posture can also lead to back pain and make you feel extremely uncomfortable. Ultimately, our spine controls our posture and if you notice that your dad, grandfather, brother, friend or colleague experience pain or are uncomfortable while sitting or standing properly, it is likely that their spine is misaligned. Your chiropractor will check if your body has a noticeable posture imbalance, such as a higher right shoulder, and also test your flexibility and mobility. Ultimately, all men can benefit from chiropractic care by getting a spinal adjustment.

Headache relief Men get headaches for a variety of reasons such as: stress, exhaustion, or an underlying condition. Regardless of the cause, we need to listen to what our body is telling us and treat it. Over the years, research has concluded that headaches can be treated safely with chiropractic care without risking side effects that may be linked to medications. Studies have also shown that chiropractic care can help decrease both the intensity and frequency of migraine headaches.

The COVID-19 pandemic we are currently facing has definitely increased stress levels which can lead to increased headaches, and chiropractic care can help ease this condition.

Improved quality of sleep Quarantine may be the perfect time for all men to catch up on their sleep and the quality of sleep is crucial in letting our mind and body get the rest that it needs. Believe it or not, this can be determined by your spinal alignment. For example, subluxations in the spine affect the quality of sleep. Discomfort felt in the spine can make you experience periodic wakefulness. Increased stress hormone levels caused by spinal subluxations also prevent the body from relaxing enough to initiate restful sleep. Treating these subluxations is extremely important in improving your quality of sleep. Chiropractic adjustments balance out our hormone system, decrease stress hormones, and allow everyone including men to get a better night’s sleep.

In summary, what better way to show appreciation for all the father figures in our life than improving their health through chiropractic care. Happy Father’s Day everyone!

All Day Lunch Special Roti or Rice + Doubles + Pop Chicken or Vegetarian Special Roti or Rice Tuesday Special Roti or Rice Bone-in Chicken, Boneless Chicken, Shrimp, Bone-in Goat, Vegetarian

s e l b u o D e v i F Buy ne Free!

Get O EVERY DAY SPECIAL

8 65 6 99 5

99

Debe’s

Finch Ave. W Jane St.

DR. VIKAS PURI

while more healthy forms of prevention are often overlooked. Nonetheless, countless research studies have concluded that chiropractic treatment can signal a new healthier approach for treating hypertension because of the positive effects it has not only to the musculoskeletal system but also our vascular and nervous system.

2881 Jane Street Toronto, ON M3N 2J5 Tel: (416) 839-9874

ORDER ONLINE

Yorkwoods Gt.

Sheppard Ave. W.

We’ve got your

BACK AND SO MUCH MORE - Chiropractic - Physiotherapy - Massage Therapy - Spinal Decompression - Acupuncture - Counselling - Natural Medicine - DNA & Cancer Testing - Custom Orthotics - Compression Stockings Personal Injury, Rehab and Wellness Experts We Accept All Insurance Plans Contact Us Today For a Free Consultation

57 Mill St. N. Unit 102 Brampton ON L6X 1S9

110 Brickyard Way, Unit 10 Brampton ON L6V 4N1

647-499-1444 • info@intelligenthealthgroup.ca

Happy Canada Day!

Faisal Hassan MPP York South–Weston 416-243-7984 FHassan-CO@ndp.on.ca

Kamal Khera Member of Parliament - Brampton West Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Development

35 Van Kirk Drive, Suite 10, Brampton, ON, L7A 1A5 (905)454-4758 kamal.khera@parl.gc.ca | kamalkheramp.ca

Wednesday, June 24, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

HEALTH

PAGE 31

Integrative health practices that draw on nature’s many wonders; the restorative potential of light therapy W. GIFFORDJONES MD DIANA GIFFORD-JONES COMMON SENSE HEALTH

What would you do if you sprained your ankle during the COVID-19 pandemic? Or, what if you got a bad cut? You may feel that the last place you want to visit these days is a hospital. But do you have options? Maybe it’s time to learn more about light therapy.

It’s sometimes called low-level laser therapy or low-intensity light therapy. And with one of the many portable devices available on the market, you can safely treat yourself at home. So, what should you know about this therapy as you get older and invariably develop various aches, pains, injuries and infections?

Dr. Mary Dyson, Emeritus, Professor at King’s College (University of Lon-

don, England), is an international expert on wound healing. She reports that light therapy provides a jump-start to the body’s natural healing process, delivering energy that’s transformed into biochemical energy. The end result is increased blood supply and accelerated healing.

Dr. Tina Karu, Professor of Laser Biology and Medicine of the Russian Academy of Science in Moscow, is an expert on basic laser research. She too has published articles about the positive healing qualities of laser therapy.

Dr. Fred Kahn, Director of the Meditech Laser and Rehabilitation Centre in Toronto, explains that light therapy triggers the release of endorphins, morphinelike substances that inhibit pain sensation.

It also increases cortisol, the forerunner of cortisone, and angiogenesis, and the formation of new blood vessels.

Kahn says many medical conditions benefit from this therapy. The majority of his patients suffer degenerative arthritis involving the lumbosacral spine.

And 60% of these patients also have degenerative disc disease causing compression of the spinal nerves.

The impact of stress and how to manage it Stress can impact your health and wellbeing. Under­standing where it comes from and how it can affect you is crucial to remaining mentally and physically fit. Here’s what you need to know.

WARNING SIGNS It’s important to be able to recognize if stress has become a problem. The symptoms below are common and not a cause for alarm when they occur occasionally.

However, if they get worse or become ongoing, this could indicate that something’s wrong. Watch out for: • Increase or decrease in appetite • General fatigue • Mood swings • Difficulty concentrating

• Headaches • Irritability or aggressiveness • Sleep problems POSSIBLE SOURCES If you realize you’re living with too much stress, you need to identify its source. Think about your relationships, both personal and professional, your home life, your job and how busy you are. You should also identify daily irritants such as a long commute, as these tend to add up and can impact your mental health.

WHAT YOU CAN DO Once you have an idea of where your stress comes from, you’ll be in a position to take steps to improve your situation and health. In some cases, it’s a matter of adjusting an aspect of your life, such as how much work you’ve taken on, or working out a problem in a relationship. Importantly, things like meditation and therapy can help as well.

Whatever you do, don’t let stress take over your life. Over time, it can cause you to develop serious health issues and poor coping me­chanisms like consumption of fatty foods, alcohol and drugs.

Kahn adds that over the last 20 years he has treated hundreds of patients suffering from pain due to spinal disc disease. Many of these patients had previous back surgery or were scheduled for an operation. By using light therapy, he has been able to relieve their pain in a high percentage of cases.

Another large number of patients suffer from a variety of sport injuries. Others complain of pain in the shoulder and neck due to long hours of working at the computer. These younger patients respond quickly to light therapy.

But light therapy treats more than aches and pains. It helps several skin conditions such as psoriasis, allergic contact dermatitis, acne, ringworm, impetigo, herpes lesions and warts, many of which fade away after 5 to 10 treatments.

The current epidemic of diabetes is causing more patients to suffer from chronic leg and foot ulcers due to decreased blood supply. Conventional medical treatments often involve compression, which requires months for the healing to occur, and pain medications become the common prescription for coping. Infected

ulcers can require antibiotics. But light therapy can have a dramatic effect on healing these ulcers. A study published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment reported an average 83% improvement from light therapy, with no side effects.

At times, patients are informed of only their “medical” options. Few are told about the restorative potential of light therapy. Why? Because schools of medicine around the world have neglected to train physicians in integrative health practices that draw on nature’s many wonders. Light therapy is a natural approach to muscle injuries, cuts and wounds, ulcers, and other ailments. It does not require prescription painkillers and is a non-invasive treatment.

Today, any treatment that reduces the use of painkillers is a step in the right direction.

During our lifetime it’s hard to escape life’s aches, pains, injuries, infections and aging joints. Even without a viral epidemic it’s convenient to have a light therapy home unit on hand for use as needed it. Several types are available, some more expensive than others depending on the quality.

What’s the best way to wake up?

Does it take you several minutes, or even hours, before your brain starts working in the morning? This phenomenon, known as sleep inertia, was recently studied by researchers from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. They found that the sound you wake up to may play a role in how long this state lasts.

WHAT IS SLEEP INERTIA? Sleep inertia pertains to the transition phase bet­ween sleep and wakeful­ness. Depending on the person, this state of drowsiness can last up to four hours, although it typically lasts somewhere between 15 and 60 minutes.

The state is characterized by inattentiveness, slow reaction times and an overall lack of alertness. These symptoms result in a higher risk of mistakes, which can be a problem if someone needs to operate machinery or make crucial decisions.

WHAT DO ALARMS HAVE TO DO WITH IT? The study found that people who woke up to music reported feeling more alert than those who woke up to classic alarm sounds, such as a beeping noise. Researchers hypothesize this is because the rhythmic and melodic nature of music isn’t as disruptive

as the harsh noises of an alarm.

If you suffer from persistent sleep problems, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss them. Over time, poor sleep can increase your risk of developing serious health issues.

PAGE 32

COMMUNITY

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Western Christian Democracy Why the incongruity? - Pt. 1

ERROL A. GIBBS errol@carib101.com

PHILOSOPHER

Western, democratic Christian nations claim Christianity as the religion that can save the world. Paradoxically, 30,000 – 40,000 Christian denominations call into question the unanimity in faith belief.

Catholics (including Roman Catholics and Eastern Orthodox) constitute some 1.2 billion of the estimated 2.2 billion people worldwide who count themselves as Christians (Barrett et al. 2001, Adherents. com website). Interestingly, Christian democratic development is rooted in the fissures of the Catholic-Protestant divide.

Why the incongruity?

Western political leaders seem to imply that Western constitutional democracy is synonymous with Christianity.

However, there is not a preponderance of the evidence that postmodern Christian democracy confirms such a proposition.

Notwithstanding, the Judeo-Christian tradition clarifies that otherwise nebulous idea of equality. Christian literature teaches that all people are born equal in the image of "God" that all human beings share (a) the same origin, (b) the same nature, and (c) the same destiny. (Reference: Copyright © UNESCO 1979 (United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural

Organization). Declaration on Race and Racial Prejudice (Adopted by the General Conference of UNESCO at its twentieth session Paris, November 1978).

Notwithstanding, 6,000 years of records of human history tell a different story about inequality of birth. Intellectual observation would reveal that human beings are not born equal in the image of audacious "man." The architects of the "human ecosystem" in Western countries makes it empathically clear (by their practice of degrading others) that the design does not comprehend the empowerment of people of colour, or the optimization of their lives.

Paradoxically, the clerics continue to pontificate, "All men are created equal."

They never provide context or challenge the constitutional writers and the practitioners of racial and cultural superiority. They rarely let their voices resonate against human beings' subjugation, illtreatment, and mass incarceration in stark contradiction to the original constitution for humankind (the Christian Bible). Specifically, the teachings of Jesus Christ and the great prophets of other religions.

We may have overlooked the need to call upon the white clergy. They are remarkably silent in matters regarding coloured lives. Yet! Their voices might have the most significant resonance with the established political hierarchical order.

The paradox of all paradoxes is the Christian west striving to "democratize" the world - not by loving, caring, and sharing - nor with faith, hope, and mercy - not by empathy, fairness, and justice.

Does Christianity democracy

Home & Auto Insurance • Condo, Tenant & Rented Dwellings • Commercial Auto • Trucking • Business • Professional Liability

MULTI COMPANIES REPRESENTATION Brian Watson 416-836-7397 bwatson@unisonins.com

GET A QUOTE FREE ONLINE www.unisonins.com

have the “moral capacity” to transform the world, underpinned by such incongruences? Western leaders claim tremendous success by comparing democracy to other systems of governance, such as feudal monarchy, totalitarianism, and postmodern communist dictatorships. Absolutely!

Democracy is superior to these different regimes, past and present. Sadly, the leaders of some regimes opportunistically draw a parallel to some Western democratic leader’s behaviour as equivalent to theirs.

The "moral evidence" demonstrates that the heights of injustice in the administration of "unjust laws" are represented in Just Mercy - A Story of Justice and Redemption. Copyright © 2014 by Bryan Stevenson, founder and executive director of the "Equal Justice Initiative (EJI)," says, "The opposite of poverty is not wealth. In too many places, the opposite of poverty is justice" (Reference: Bryant Stevenson's TED Talk).

In 2012, EJI won a historic ruling in the US Supreme Court holding that mandatory life-without-parole sentences for all children 17 or younger are unconstitutional. Stevenson's work fighting poverty and challenging racial discrimination in the criminal justice system has won him numerous awards. Bryant is a graduate of the Harvard Law School and the Harvard School of Government. He is the recipient of 14 honorary doctorate degrees.

The disparities that are so glaring to non-Christians and some Christians alike cause them to ponder the complicated relationship between Christianity and democracy. The democratic Christian west

in 2020 is experiencing a "crisis in leadership governance" (spiritual, moral, social, intellectual, and physical). In the book, "Poor Leadership and Bad Governance," Edited by Helms, Ludger, (2012), it provides a chronology of 'wicked problems' facing leaders in our postmodern ear.

Evidence is in the principal problem facing leaders in postmodern democracy by an enormous buildup of the global Prison Industrial Complex (PIC). Too many disadvantaged peoples of color, the PIC paints a picture of a "constitutionally legal" substitute for the industrial-scale strictures of plantations of the Southern United States and the colonies. (Internet Reference: Plantation Life, National Humanities Center).

This "deficit-financed" PIC suffocates the growth of a more "just society."

Notwithstanding, powerless individuals are becoming aware that they are powerful. They are the light of the world, striving to illuminate the darkness of indifference to people of colour. Undergirded by these "thought perspectives" lie the irrefutable evidence that even the powerless have control of their destiny, enabled by their spiritual connection to God.

Civilization brought itself out of the Dark Ages or Early Middle Ages, the early medieval period of western European history—specifically, the time (476–800 CE). More importantly, the world ended 400 years of unrelenting Black African enslavement (1600–1900 CE), and the United Nations (UN) gave the Declaration of Human Rights to the world in (1984) (Continued in Part 2 of 3).

LIFE

Wednesday, June 24, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 33

Resolve to succeed despite life’s contrary circumstances rologist, psychiatrist, and Holocaust survivor wrote, “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” History abounds with stories of great men and women who despite life’s contrary circumstances and the odds stacked against them has gone on to put a dent in the universe and leave behind footprints in the sand of time.

Federick Douglas, who was paralyzed from the waist down, rose above his physical limitations to become the president of the United States. Viktor Frankl, imprisoned at several concentration camps

by Nazis. His wife and family were killed, but despite these circumstances, he wrote the book, “Man’s Search For Meaning” one of the ten most influential books in the United States. At the time of his death in 1997, the book had sold over 10 million copies and had been translated into 24 languages. Helen Keller was an American author, political activist, and lecturer, yet, she was the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree. In the face of life’s contrasting odds, they lived a life of impact

DANIEL COLE

daniel@carib101.com

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Most people settle for what life gives them.

The Irish playwright and political activist, George Bernard Shaw once said, “The reasonable man adapts himself to the world; the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself. Therefore, all progress depends on the unreasonable man.” Life is full of contrary circumstances that stand in the way of our success and progress. William Federick has rightly observed, “There are no great people in this world, only great challenges which ordinary people rise to meet.”

In his book, Man’s Search for Meaning, Viktor E. Frankl, the Austrian neu-

and significance. What’s your excuse?

The works of the great composer, Ludwig van Beethoven transcends time, but he was deaf. When his magisterial 9th Symphony premiered in 1824, the composer had to be turned around to see the audience cheering — he could not hear the audience’s rapturous applause. Widely regarded as the greatest composer who ever lived, Beethoven dominates a period of musical history as no one else before or since. You are either making an excuse or making a difference.

A lot of success in life comes because of tough personal choices people have made in spite of their bad start. It’s too easy to blame our parents and home life for our problems, but it’s all about the daily choices we have to make as adults in the now. Life is hard, and success comes at a price. John Maxwell said, “You can pay now and play later, or you can play now and pay later. But either way, you are going to pay.” Make hay while the sun shines. Put in the work for your dream. The difference between excellence and mediocrity is ef-

fort, and the difference between ordinary and extraordinary is the “extra”. Success takes courage and sacrifice. Remember, if it was easy, everyone would do it.

In life, you will fail your way to success, but if you don’t give in, and you don’t give up, with dedication and hard work, you will succeed. Aristotle has rightly said, “The ideal man bears the accidents of life with dignity and grace, making the best of circumstances.”

John Locke once said, “Things of this world are in so constant a flux that nothing remains long in the same state.” In other words, life and circumstances are always changing and we need to be hopeful in that and be glad that negative circumstances are not fixed forever. If life changes, then so can we.

In your resolve to succeed, beware of pursuing things for which you are not gifted. Sometimes our “finding a way to win” is sheer stubbornness. In the end, the ridicule we get is deserved. Some things are not meant to be, and sometimes, it is impatience that sends us off on a tangent.

HUGE MATRESS SALE! SINGLE MATTRESS

45

STARTING AT

$ 6” SINGLE FOAM MATTRESS

85

$

WAS $199

PILLOW COMFORT QUEEN SET

449

$

WAS $899

ORTHOPEDIC BACK SUPPORTERS STARTING AT

799

20 YEAR WARRANTY SINGLE SET

200

WAS $300

ORTHOPEDIC SET 20 YEAR WARRANTY DOUBLE SET

250

$

499

Mattress & Furniture E M P O R I U M

255 Queen St. E, Unit 4 Brampton

250

WAS $899

WAS $390

$

ORTHOPEDIC SET 30 YEAR WARRANTY SINGLE SET

250

$

WAS $399

MEMORY FOAM QUEEN SET

PERFECTION PILLOW TOP QUEEN SET

999

$

HIGH DENSITY FOAM FIRM QUEEN SET

$

QUEEN SET

$

ORTHOPEDIC SET

$

ORTHOPEDIC 20 YEARS

$

WAS $1499

699

WAS $1199

STARTING AT

ORTHOPEDIC SET 30 YEAR WARRANTY DOUBLE SET

299

$

WAS $540

ULTRA COMFORT 16” THICK PILLOW TOP QUEEN SET

999

$

WAS $1799

MONDAY-FRIDAY: 10:00am to 8:30pm SATURDAY: 10:00am to 5:30pm SUNDAY: 11:00am to 5:00pm

Tel: 905.874.7120

PAGE 34

LIFE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

“This was the Karma for some of the things I did in my life!”

Reliving my past trauma

I want to grow up.

Or do I?

BY MAKAYLA B. 12 YEARS OLD TC JUNIOR CONTRIBUTOR If someone were to interrogate you and inquire about what part of being an adult is fun and why, what would you say?

Would you say because you can do whatever you want? Or maybe because you can eat whatever you want and stay up as late as you want?

Well if I were asked that question, I’d probably say being able to do whatever you want would be the most fun. I would be able to buy a dog. I can’t right now because I am not allowed to have a pet.

The reason for that is because I used to have a pet fish, and I was too young to take care of it, so my parents had to for me.

Being an adult may sound fun, but it’s not all fun and games. Though being an adult may sound fun it also can get challenging at times.

Depending on the job you have, and if you enjoy what you are doing, going to work seems like it can be a drag. Adults have: expenses (paying bills, food costs, etc.), they have to keep their house clean, if they have kids, they have to deal with all types of bad behaviour, and of course, there is traffic.

So while being an adult may be fun, it also has its challenges. Adults have many responsibilities, and although it might seem like it is fun being an adult, the challenges and the responsibility do not seem fun at all.

EMPOWERING OUR YOUNG MINDS OF TOMORROW TORONTO CARIBBEAN NEWS INC.

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

HUMAN SPECIALIST

“Hola” Really Simone! That is the only thing you could think of to say right now?

I was nervous. Okay! I am going to admit something here. It is hard to pinpoint a feeling when you are in a stressful situation. You want to feel everything, yet nothing at the time. I am glad that I was even able to describe a feeling at that moment.

If you are just joining us, my name is Simone Jennifer Smith. At the age of 33, I had successfully found myself imprisoned in Panama. Yeah! I know. I definitely want you to join me on this journey, because I think that we all can learn something from it. I certainly did.

I was catching everyone up on my first morning in the holding cell in Panama.

Here I was, cramped and ache, knowing that this was just the beginning of my current woes.

The girls looked at me curiously.

They all appeared relatively young (25 – 35), and for some reason, seemed calm in their situation.

“Hola,” the older one of the three said. She then followed up with a train of Spanish. I could only look at her blankly and say, “Perdón, pero no hablo español.” I had been dating a Latin American man for four years, and that was all I could come up with.

Geez! Looking back at it, I realize that I had lost an opportunity to learn a language.

She giggled, unaffected by my lack of vernacular. She said something to the other girls, and they nodded, and looked back at me interested. When you watch movies, they always showing these holding cells a certain way. Angry women. A mean looking heifer, glaring icily at everyone. An emotional young girl, scared out of her wits. Crying uncontrollably. Panama was none of that.

I don’t know how long these women had been there, but for some reason, that first initial interaction put me at ease. The heavy steel door swung open, and an officer stepped in with plastic trays of food. He handed them out to us, and I looked at it not sure what to make of it. I can’t describe what was in front of me. I think it was supposed to be eggs, but not sure. There was some type of meat on the plate. Sausage perhaps. I just looked at it unsure of what to do.

I looked up to see what the other

girls were doing. They had already started eating, and they seemed focused on the task at hand. I looked back down at my plate and thought to myself, “Why not?” I tentatively took a small bite. Hmmm! The egg thing was bland with no taste. The sausage; it reminded me of the wieners from Jamaica. I mixed them together and kept eating. I was in no position to be demanding lobster and champagne.

I washed my meal down with some watered down coffee, and set my tray to the side. There was a small stall that served as a washroom and a shower. I quietly dismissed myself, and grabbed my small essentials to clean up.

My Caribbean people will understand this. There was a time when you didn’t have an option of hot, or cold water.

Your shower was cold. Well, I went right back there. I stood on the edge of the toilet shower with my rag, and soap. I promise. I did my best, but it takes some time to adjust to pissing, and then standing up and taking a shower in the same space.

I have to admit that after the shower, I was able to sort through my thoughts a little better. I knew in my heart that this was supposed to happen to me. This was my Karma for some of the things I had done in my life.

Emotional intelligence isn’t just recommended, it’s a necessity!

GARCIA AKUA

garcia@carib101.com

COSMIC CORNER

Greetings family I’m sending you all an abundance of healing energy and love as we journey together through these trying times. Fear has seemed to be an underlying theme this year. Fear of war, fear of COVID, fear of each other and now fear of brutality and death. We’re six months into 2020, passed the halfway mark, still with fear in the air. We often fear what we do not know, the unknown in most cases causes anxiety, so fear is a natural response. However, we have a source of guidance in the Cosmos to provide us with some clues for moving through fear to love.

No matter where we are in the world, we all share the same Sun, Moon and planets. We all fall under the same Zodiac wheel, which is likened to the Womb of the Solar System. The Zodiac holds within it the organizing principles of our Solar System. If we believe in our daily horoscopes or not we can all agree that some days are better than others. We can feel the energy shifting at any given moment. The Cosmos connect us

all and if we continue to find answers.

As previously discussed, this year every planet will go through a retrograde period. Mercury has just entered it’s season as Venus is getting ready to come out of retrograde. By now most of us are more familiar with Mercury Retrograde. Mercury goes through the phase at least 3-4 times per year. Mercury is the planet that influences travel, thoughts, communiation, and technology. During the retrograde phase, the planet slows down which can have some disruptions to its area of influence. This a good time to back up needed files and information. When traveling take caution, double-check directions, and give yourself a little extra time. Be clear and intentional with your communication as misunderstandings are also typical around this time. It is not the best time to sign contracts or make major purchases, if need be, do your due diligence, read the fine print before signing. Mercury will be retrograde in the sign of Cancer from June 18th to July 12th.

Cancer is a water sign of emotions, feminine energy, maternal energy as well as the home. Mercury in Cancer is calling us to lean out of our minds and into our hearts.

There is a saying that says ‘home is where the heart is at.’ This is a message we can take from this retrograde phase, there is nothing to fear. We can rest our racing minds from all we have been trying to process. Most of us are mentally and emotionally drained at this point. This Mercury retrograde is calling us to slow down our minds and spend time

with this nurturing maternal energy Cancer brings.

Please note, in this placement, we can also be more emotionally triggered, especially by things pertaining to the home, childhood wounds, and/or issues with a maternal figure. As stated a lot of us are already emotionally triggered by the amount of fear we have thus ingested. Do not take things personally, we are all battling our inner emotions at this time. Be gentle with yourself, be gentle with others. Take some time over the next few weeks to unplug from all the external triggers. Tap into the divine feminine nurturing energy that is available to us all, we are all cradled in the womb of the solar system.

Mercury ruling the thoughts and mind, in the placement of Cancer, our emotions, we have an opportunity to reflect on what emotional intelligence means to each of us. We have the power to reprogram our minds with love, rather than living in a state of fear. When we spend time time with our fears and triggers, we can unpack the whys behind them. This gives us an opportunity to now create a positive solution to the why instead of being cripled by fear.

Every day it seems it’s something new across the various media forms, but every day is also an opportunity to heal. If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that nothing is certain. So in order to face our fears and continue pushing forward with love, emotional intelligence isn’t just recommended, it’s a necessity.

LIFE

Wednesday, June 24, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 35

Tuthmosis the 3rd; the first warrior to record his feats on the battlefield in great detail his ascension to the throne.

However, those arduous days and nights spent with the military give Tuthmosis 3rd the experience, which actually set him up to be one of Kemet’s greatest Nesew or King. While we can only speculate about what type of pharaoh or nesew he would have been if he had taken the throne before his time.

We do know Tuthmosis 3rd became the first person to record his feats on the battlefield in great detail. Today we can refer to them on the walls of AmunRa’s Temple at Karnak. Originally, his scribe Thanuny, the world’s first war correspondent, recorded them in a journal.

Immediately after the passing of Hatshepsut, there was an uprising in the eastern parts of Asia. The king of Kadesh, an ancient city of Syria, marched an army of approximately 10-15 thousand men to the city of Megiddo in order to “rebel against his majesty.� In the eyes of the Tuthmois 3rd, this meant war.

*As a side note, the city of Meggido is the biblical city of Armageddon where in Revelations 16:16 tells us “The

DAVE RANKIN dave@carib101.com

AFRICAN HISTORY

Of all the glorious accomplishments Hatshepsut made during her reign, it was her foresight to ensure that her stepson, Tuthmosis 3rd received a first rate education from the finest minds of Kemet. I like to think that she knew in her heart that Kemet would need the kind of ruler that the people would be proud of. Little did she know of the animosity Tuthmosis 3rd had towards her. We could only imagine what would have been brewing in his mind during his 22-year co-regency. It must have been difficult for a child at his age to: have to be schooled among the priesthood, join the military, and the obvious delay of

kings of the world will have their final battle against the forces of God.�

According to the book When Egypt Ruled The East, the authors advise us that, “It was the twenty-fifth day of the eighth month, in the twenty-second year of his reign, that King Thutmose 3rd passed the fortress of Tjaru on the eastern frontier of Egypt.� Tuthmosis 3rd and his army marched to the loyal city of Gaza in ten days. After a days rest, his troops then proceeded north towards Yehem. This trip took about eleven days.

Here, he sent out scouts, which advised him of the enemy’s defense at the fortified city of Meggido. With his enemy in waiting, a decision had to be made on how to approach any further. He called a council of war to discuss the options. Three possible scenarios were on the table. Two of them were easy, one of them, a little more difficult. Tuthmosis 3rd selected the hardest route possible as he thought his enemies would not expect him to do. “I will march on this road to Aruna‌ let him of you who will follow my majesty.â€?

His loyal troops followed him on

that narrow road, where “horse must follow horse and man behind man.� At the helm on golden chariot, Tuthmosis 3rd lead his troops without any problems for three days, setting up camp before the battle.

The battle began at dawn, with Tuthmosis 3rd leading the charge. The Kemetian force appeared to take their enemies by surprise as the army of Kadesh did not expect them to arrive at the point they had. This forced them to retreat within the city walls. The armies of Kadesh suffered considerable loses, especially the numerous chariots and horses that were abandoned when they fled.

In so many ways, this had saved them, as the Tuthmosis 3rd’s men were so enthralled with their newly found spoils, they had failed to take the city in one swift move. In all, the Kemetian forces had to erect a “blockade, which lasted seven months to starve them (the armies of Kadesh) into submission.� Ultimately, the heads of the armies of Kadesh fell and began the legend of Tuthmosis 3rd as Kemet’s Warrior King.

Systemic racism can no longer be denied in Ontario You can go back 60 or 70 years. People out there are feeling pain. These issues are deeply rooted; they stem from a history of racism and abuse.�

Peel which includes: Brampton, Caledon and Mississauga has about 50% of people identify as a visible minority according to statistics quoted in the June 15th issue of the Caledon Enterprise. Peel Council introduced a resolution that stated outright that there is an anti-black racism crisis in the region and that there is resolve to erase it. According to Johanns Downey, Caledon Regional Councillor, “It is time to act. Our school board is on fire. Our black community is suffering. We have a lot to do,� (Caledon Enterprise).

In the words of Bancy Polsinelli (Peel’s interim Chief Administrative) stated, “We may be miles away, but the issues are not new to us. They are being seen in a new light .We know action is needed.�

Peel region is expected to have a community well-being and safety plan in place by Jan 1st, 2021. It will involve, “Engaging black communities to address racial inequities related to COVID-19, pro-

PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

EDUCATION

The pernicious and pervasiveness of antiblack racism has been acknowledged within Canada by many levels of government.

The RCMP commissioner Brenda Lucki, who initially denied the reality of systemic racism in Canada’s national force retracted and admitted that it did. Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau recognized its existence during Black History Month, 2019.

Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario initially denied it on June 2nd, admitted on CP24 on Thursday, June 4th,�Our history is different than the United States, but we have our own history of racism here in Ontario.

RY 10TH

ISSUE E6 •

, JANUA ESDAY 23 • WEDN

2018

VOLUM

NG EVERYTHI

YOU NEED

EVERYTHIN G

TISE: 647-72

2-6298

• ONLIN E:

POWERED BY

most challenging

only for the • PRIVATE •MORTGA MORTGAGES ED AND MORE! IN 1st & 2nd • SELF EMPLOY SPECIALIZING• NEW TO CANADA 17 2019 DAY, APRIL REFINANCES 5 • WEDNES 8 • ISSUE VOLUME 9 2019

A fee is charged

CHARLESE AYODEL Mortgage Agent

Group 12619

RTISE:

TO ADVE

LP MAKE

Mortgage

647-7

Agent |

Broker

Financial Group 12619 M first consultation CALLtoMEthe signing of your “I work for you, not the banks! From mortgage, our services are free.

NEWSPA TODAY! BEAN.CO I CAN HELP! fee is chargedOCARIB only for the most challenging credit solutions, and it’s especially then that I can do for you what the banks cannot.� EVERYT D IN ONE ONLINE: ATORONT HING YOU www.c

416-875-4

523

TO

ADVERTI harles charle•s@bfg SE: 647-722-6 ayode SPECIALIZING IN 1st & 2nd MORTGAGES PRIVATE MORTGAGES le.ca 298 • ONLINE: broker•.ca REFINANCES • NEW TO CANADA • SELF EMPLOYED AND MORE! TORONTO

ARIBBEAN

NTOC

TORO

POWERED BY

R

YOUR DR

VOLUME

EAMS A

OYED •

8 • ISSU E

NEED IN ONE

EVERYTH

RTISE : 647-7 VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 4 • WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3 2019 22-62

98 • ONLINE:

ING YOU

TORONTOC

416-875-4523

NEED

.COM

EVERYTHING YOU NEED IN ONE NEWSPAPER

www.charlesayodele.ca

IN ONE

ARIBBEAN

Mortgage Agent | Broker Financial Group 12619

CALL ME TODAY! I CAN HELP!

GAGE AND MORES !

2 •

HELCPING LAS

TO ADVERTISE: 647-722-6298 • ONLINE: TORONTOCARIBBEAN.COM

charles@bfgbroker.ca SHQ WR WKH HVV YHU\RQH DQG LV RXU EXVLQ RQ QJ IRU H WUHSUHQH JDQL]DWL DO VRPHWKLLove is UH DQ HQ OLDWHG RU RPH JUHDW ,I \RX D an emotion HVV 6RFL QLW\ DIÀ and & %XVLQ Conven- SXEOLF Valentin that we XF PDNH V U FRPPX AN e’s Day all feel, WR EH WR RZQHU R brate WKH WK DQQXDO 7 is aODQ IRU V CARIBBE it. The KH SODFH day to cele- is complet at the Pearson heartH \RXU S FRQWLQX WKLV LV W symbol ANESHA PREMRA ely O/TORONTO every new WR DWWHQG V 6th, 2018 n!

LRQV DQG of love, is the internat MAHADE %XVLQHVional payroll for thisnon-profit; there on May the TC Busidren in Brampto J/TORONTO and there As with ALYSSA spend in the Caribbe EXVL- FRQQHFW charity. 100% is no for funds RQ IRU its 4th year, CARIBBEAN are O RI WKH 7& new goals? many of us DQG tion Center serious chil- helpingraised by this the foundat Now in FUHDWHG WR SURYLGH nity to FHVV LQ an IRXQGDWL 7KH JRD exof the that have heart issues.

VWURQJ New year,rolls around, charity goes \HDU JRQH us. many neurs to SURZDV ion. very get children FUHDWH D entrepre an opportu L]H a baby Imagine LV WR with before RU in the Caribbe to that fun activities The Gala had year that the help QHVV 6RFLDO onals with HV WR KHOS RSWLP an 6RFLDO J RQ DQRWKHU aand very serious sue, but one set FXUUHQW having such as owners they need. is professi WHFKQLTX full of voluntee not having an aboutwas full of donated WLPH UHà HFWLQof the new most of this year, RQ WKHLU a raffle heart JV FLDO EULQ through This eventSDWURQV business DVS ness isVW persona LOOV DQG the means 7KH 6R the TCCF rs that The team is entine’s RU HVWDEOLVK the surgery, the promise to make the LW\¡V PR potential!

WKH SDQG YHQWXUHV FRPPXQ that gavegifts, a quiz G OHDUQ VN ly heartbre WKHU FKDQFH WR JU go children l time to help dedicate their XVLQHVV it must beWR toVKDUH business EULQJ WRJHWKHU FRPPXQLW\ MHFWHG E UHDPV DQ We resolve H RI DQR aking their W RI WKH ensure that WR LHV a trua DJ to Day chocolate and away ValWKH DVH RXU G HVW cialized of the foundat WKH EHV experien YLVLRQDUce. H WKH ODW WDNLQJ DGYDQWDJ RSSRUWXQLW\ RZQHUV RI RWKHUV DERXW WKHLU WRJHWKHU This is what ion get the event wasdance the night of course medical SSRUWXQLWLHV FK FHV V YH FUHDWLYH LQWURGXF EXVLQHVV HGXFDWH The WKH\ RI- Children spe- well-dre full of generou away. This care as PLVVHG RRQ QHZ H[SHULHQ for many, two EXVLQHV possible.

Caribbe SURGXFWL ’s Foundat FHV DQG DQG OG DQG temptin VHUYLFHV quickly an NHHS WKH ion (TCCF) ssed people s, extreme HPEDUN Unfortunately FN WR RXU VDPH R H- WR QHWZRUN SURGXFWV DQG LQQRYDWLYH DQG WKHLU EHgVW SUDFWL as to support to helpKRZ WR is at- 5TCCF On Saturda QG ly WKH HQWV RQ solve.

FXOW WR U HU LQGLYLGXDO ULJKW ED the cause.who were proud U JURZ D This VKDULQJ y, Februar FXUUHQW DFKLHYHP hosted ed On Page QRW GLIÀ ¡V DQRWK y 9th, ZKLOH DOVR WKH\ FDQ IXUWKH H EXVLQHVV PRGHO IUHVK DQG Continu cause that celebrat a Valentin ZHHNV LQ ZH¡UH JK IHU FWLYH KDELWV ,W¡V J EXW LW ed love and e’s Day Gala XQSURGX VWDUW D \HDU VWURQDOO\ IROORZ WKURX VH XQLTXH ZD\V WKDW QG WR EULQJ PRU Continued raised funds FRPVROYH WR OWRJHWKHU WR DFWX QW WR DFKLHYH WKR H[SDQG WKHLU EUD On Page 6RFLDO LV V J 7 way. %XVLQHV RQH SURYLGLQ PDWWHU D H WKDW FRPPLWPH H their 7KH 7& Virtual Tours DQG PDN HYHQWV LQ LQJ WR GR WR PDN R and High Quality KABRENA RI WZR Down payment ROBINSON/TO JRDOV :KDW DUH \RX JR SULQJ WKH 7RURQW HD Photos to RONTO Loans - Cash you SULVHG Attract moreCARIBBEAN W" 7KLV 6 In Jamaica,

Back Mortgage Buyers a central GLIIHUHQ per formally invites Offers* and popular belief that “education WKLV \HDUan Newspa NTO CARIBBEAN is tise�. it all starts at is the key to success� and Caribbe SIMONE SMITH/TORO Inc the Realelementary child’s On Friday, First & Second Estate Agentstages of a life. Fraternity Alpha However, Phi 87thfactors 647-8 foundation hosted September 16th the overwhelmed by the their with dave@se inadequate EAN Mortgages the Alpha 67-78 ongoing such hosting foundation their resources archrealt as n support It CARIBB Sigma Equity the 09 12th draising gala to facilitateisstudents not y.ca |Conventio in educational ONTO of Delta u– as they were on the grounds annual fun- community has been receiving from Loans dave.sea Regional institutions, March a coincid from $5000 the sisters contin Club ence

by LL/TOR rchrealty over the years. the broth- Midwestern of Donalda the in Toronto. the dream is a XFDWLRQDO IXOĂ€ nized and in Toronto.

CASSE Debt Consoli g A-KAY .co of 2nd, Inc., timeOOPHQW FDQ EH that Hosted by CP24 - $500,000 tans 2019, on and Nathan was “I Sorority our elders Fraternity for the very of edDowner, Saturd Onefirst HDVLO\ GHWHUUH dation Thetacipati always happenin 50 Village this organization Regga ay, Canadanchor what can beam still to this dayHome s ofAlpha the event is no eman did not know, G ning for our itSHAUN Centre amazed at e of live declar bita day fostering Alpha who effortPhi accomplished Pl Suite With so much that ed Ti-featured ana.eveMississauga those ed ais little mandate Refinance & much-needthe fought counauctions, 100 hundr Day; it was y our ers city of Toronto, together with Saturd when we come of of to improve from looking events , ON L4Z entertainmen memotration event For wasacross also the holidada GLQLQJ ay night like-minded individuals childhood 1V9 across Ă€QH eds in the great thereasare ationInc. ed er Home Purcha a some tors whocoordinat and a passion Good of WRSSHG had visitors SIMONE ion in this weekend tion the we island. reggaeZLWK Houseeduca- the that or Found -DPDLFDQ was a those sentinFXLVLQH andGTA of great to support , or unatLess inclusLee with This SMITH/T reggae lished III, and ances Hotels se wonder The only ia- by like Caribana, asThe Than music in fans g the past, com- in less na Karen filled Delta unnoticed positions,â€?artists ORONT ity and zaa t the zaa Good an exquisite ebrate in downt Helping at ToAssoc the of reggae vibe of the U.S.A. mayDr.goMaula he said. first estab own ambiance. team O CARIBB CreditEAN a reKwan Hands &isConfer, repre- and fortunate Foundation Dewitat that Mortgage Agent island presen the journe all parts imhas took TorontTheOpera Jamaica e, equal Airport

by This is why . havetosuch rnia.the says place popula i- was1966, t, andHands weseeks License brought lanthropists, Helping o, toevent ian Kwan “improve cornuc collaborated activi- from #12275 y of one entrepreneurs ians, it own the that n culturr takes tended. r genres future Canad next generation the lives s visiting cel- andTitansout phi- LQVLGH Newspape e try,�the Marriot Jamaica CanadToronto opia NATA nd, CalifoAfrica of bers of with artists Regga our12th and other time of the most The weekend started n Canad ofisJamaicans cel- in of American oration other memWKH &RQVXO *HQHUDO all of the LYAines. inof discipl li phras of ence Africa thesift Swahi communities the incommunity 2019, the ronto Caribbean during in Oakla amount TONE Rooted of music in to ande.their April building Anne Marie Bonner sCALL “As Centre.

Regga includ bytime neighb a through 2IĂ€FH ry 1st, iation (CKA) the world;in support orchesofofthe creating traditions Y in a unique on Friday, Molly April cordcityeducation in the Eglinto the harRI OR His collab frican e was e workin at the same orhood,foundation’s novel, the time world-class to begin continued t tion.ties trated born d from Johnso natalya@lend TEXT with system through ascene ntbegan s and On Januazaa Assoc the Pan-ASquare is rooted ation to on Sunday, our an incred after Hale, causeCraig, in Falmouth find theof lives event put deriveand morefinancialg 416-83 of “building and who was n and the Toront ended porta 5 blosso n West investment to deliver frastructure, weekend. occasion Caribana was mean Jamaica, his consid a foundusasized and noise educationâ€?.

Founder 7-5460 zaa, Philips artists “first fruits .ca | www.lendmor ibly Musica On Page al custom Wynto officially concept toon in in- med through resource materials, g events introduced an Kwan wave in the- cultur gives of ing, vance o momento by support a makContinued emph n d Kwan n Culcha reggae a and in efinancial.ca ora erable compellin weekend, Andre zaa President was of his homeland. and experand Jamaicmaica,the 1970s of Helping Artisti y. This recon 14th. hworks. w tions l Director ebrate y, at Natha first time; ma- mean KwanIt journey‌â€? reputa Marsalis, their of Sigma Epsilon n diasp The obser multi-i an immig of Hands communit home here Karl Haleafter tion as Andrew c Direct Continued Jaties nstrum withe.activity, to our the brothers includ The toand expressed for that holida to for the ian procla a’s vest.â€? the Africa Africans) rants a Page 7ing Harbohim to produ Toronto Chapter7 es a ducer, Craig is or ute On begin thatdirecto in Toront (panrobust SIMONE SMITH/TORONTO CARIBBEAN made he is entalist, vocalis invited to Quincy Canad lit to help Mortgag orwas Toronto Page n Culturby pan in Toron Lambda - the a first Canad ccas personally caster who r, compo Ontario,- $500,000 week in orga-Lee. Africa were ued On First & Second o, $5000 t, pro- es for Nelson Jones, twourfront’s tribwe Ameri ated and weekend their ser, ing it theKwanzaa to 3D Sign a comContin has to Ice, to celebr to and perfor & Centre from had the For all my rice burning, too much doors in 2004, Proper Television – have been filled Fire , repre Loanswith cooks from work in multip manc, and Mandela at and tion for great broadEquity y is nowd the world The Toron green seven nectattend the Rogers ages salt behind MAS- all000 walks of life. This year le musica fortune OMNI Televis music compo in using, overcooking friends out who is the producer tion – along history.red, black andg of the cer- holidans aroun , community, d Mortg Consolida ion. sitions l genres – has become with our to be local celebriDebtsoon Kwanzaa there, the time has come for anoth- TERCHEF &CANADA up in g the lightin seven-day 26th Africa rate family for $5000 - $500, rating expressing e & Home Purchase First Secon Virtual the

ESNTO BRARTO CELETO

H VER HTAHNEDTSI OF KAEO A TA Z T N SCARBOROUGH A KW REPRESENTING ANS

CANADA

BUY - SELL

DAVE JOH

NSON

Powered DLC BedrockFinancial by Lic 12275

- INVEST BUY - SELL CONFIDENCE WITH

SON EST DAVE JOHN L - INV E Y -HSEL FIDENC BUWIT CON 50 Village Quality Back L4Z 1V9 and High Loans - Cash Mississauga, ON Tours payment N VirtualDown NSO Estate Agent BUY - SELL - INVEST DAVE JOHReal Agent Mortgage License #12275

7809archrealty.co 647-867a | dave.se Pl Suite 100 realty.c

search

dave@

Centre 50 Villagega, ON L4Z 1V9 Mississau

BUY - SEL

WITH CONL - INV EST FIDENCE

one of Canada’s most stands an:Refinanc international figure from successful ty-Down Tours Home and production companies.on They have skater, a High cyber analyst, a Good Credit Qualitysecurity payment Equity Loans Than ase HD Photos Less orand lidatiacross a wide Purchcar - Cash to Attract strategically worked salesman, an entrepreneur.

GoodLoans Back Conso more Buyers Mortgage & Home rangeDebt of genres, ance and are responyear they will be competing for Offers* CreditaThis TONEY sible for overRefin 600 hours of reality, chance to beNATALY one of sixA titleholdGood Home 416-837-5460 ancial.ca RealOR Less Than TEXT lifestyle, and pro- ers and take home the $100,000 Estate CALL 647-867efinancial.ca dave@s prize.

Agent| www.lendmorefin Good or documentary Mortgage Agent EY cashearchre gramming. natalya@lendmor #12275 7809 60 alty.ca 37-54 l.ca This season,ALYA overLicense aTON thouContinued | dave.se On Page 5 orefinancia 416-8 NAT archrea sand promising chefs TEXT | www.lendm lty.co ORauditioned ancial.ca CALL ndmorefin18 spots for only 18 spots; these 50 Village natalya@le

DAVE JOH

NSON

Powered by

DLC BedrockFinancial Lic 12275

Powered

l Group

by

Lic 12275 DLC BedrockFinancia

Group

Mississau Centre Pl Suite 100 ga, ON L4Z 1V9

YEAR INDUSTRY

First & Second Mortgages Equity Loans from $5000 - $500,000 Debt Consolidation Home Refinance & Home Purchase Good or Less Than Good Credit

WITH CONFIDENCE

Virtual Tours and High Quality HD Photos to Attract more Buyers Down payment Loans - Cash Back Mortgage Offers*

DAVE JOHNSON Real Estate Agent 647-867-7809

dave@searchrealty.ca | dave.searchrealty.co 50 Village Centre Pl Suite 100 Mississauga, ON L4Z 1V9

LEARN FROM 10

NATALYA TONEY

Mortgage Agent License #12275 Powered by

DLC BedrockFinancial Group Lic 12275

CALL OR TEXT 416-837-5460 natalya@lendmorefinancial.ca | www.lendmorefinancial.ca

EXPERT MIKE

REID

48

Mortgage Agent License #12275

First & Secon Equity Loans d Mortgages Debt Conso from $5000 $500,000 Home Refinlidation Good or Lessance & Home Than Good Purchase Credit NATALYA TONEY CALL OR TEXT

DLC BedrockFinancial Powered by Lic 12275

Group

Y!

BY

MARC

H 6 2019

NEWSPAP

ER

FIND THESE ARTICLES AND MORE ONLINE www.TOCaribNews.com

Group

YOU ONLY NEED ued On MINUTE A DAY TO MAKE A FEWContin Page S 5 A LIVING

WITH STEP BY STEP MENTORING YOU’LL BE ABLE AND THE USE OF A SMARTPHONE TO TRADE IN THE NO EXPERIENCE , FOREIGN EXCHANGE NEEDED. MARKET,

CALL 1-800-377-41

POWERED

LIKE > COMMENT > SHARE > JOIN THE COMMUNITY

WITH CONF- INVEST IDENCE

er round of MASTERCHEF CANADA! memoe. “Celeb ber sentines during s of Decem cultur a is a mean Canada’s favorite culinary competicandl y held from more the 52ndit Canad tionOffers* is inBuyers their 6th season, and they to Attract emon ry 1st.

HD PhotosMortgage marks QualityCash Back and HighLoans return with a two-hour premiere to JanuaThis year Kwanzaa since Virtual Tourspayment Down of on April 8th, broadcasting on CTV. MASTERCHEF CANADA has landed Anniversary Agent Real Estate two nominations for the 2019 Canada Screen Awards including “Best -7809 realty.co 647-867| dave.search Reality/Competition Series.� It is no more Buyers hrealty.ca to Attract dave@searc Suite 100 since opening its surprise Centre Plbecause HD PhotosMortgage Offers*

REALIT

NEWSPAPERWEDNESDAY,

CARIBBEAN.COM

TO ADVE

CHARLES AYODELE

2019

NEWSPAPE

“I work for A fee is charged you, only for the not the banks! most challeng From first consulta SPECIALIZ ing credit solutions,tion to the signing REFINANCEING IN 1st and it’s especial of your mortgag VOLUME & 2nd MORT 6 • ISSUE S •15NEW ly then that e, our • WEDNESD TO CANA GAGES I can do for services are free.

AY, SEPTEMB • PRIVA DA you what ER 20TH • SELF EMPL the banks TE MORT 2017 cannot.�

NEWSPAPER NEED IN ONE

SOCIAL LOVE AND STATUS HEARTS

VOLU

NE: • ONLI 22-6298

SDAY, FEBRU

IN ONE

IBBEAN.COM

CHARLE S AY DREAMS THING YOU ELE A REALITY! EVERY I PER CAN HELP MAKE YOUR OD

WEDN 24 •

NEE 6298 • 416-875-4523EVERYT ISE: 647-722HING YOU TO ADVERT .COM

| Broker Financial

CALL ME TODAY! I CAN HELP!

.ca a www.charlesayodele charles@bfgbroker.c

• WEDNE

YOU NEED

TORONTOCAR

I CAN HE

ARY

JANU ESDAY,

• ISSUE ME 7

8 • ISSUE 1

ARY 20

TO ADVER

98 • E YOU the banks cannot.â€? your mortgage, MAK : 647-722-62 to the signing ofthen that I can do for you what RTISE HELP From first consultation I CAN not the banks! credit solutions, and it’s especially “I work for you, GES

TO ADVE

VOLUME

ER

NEWSPAP

IN ONE

EAN.COM

A REALITY! R DREAMS our services are free.

NTOCARIBB

TORO ONLINE:

viding funding to mental health/housing/ harm reduction programs for marginalized communities and ensuring social agencies in Peel that serve the black community are funded equitably through the region,�

(Caledon Enterprise). In addition, there will be several town hall meetings that will be held over the summer focusing on addressing systemic racism with the area municipalities.

In the City of Toronto, a motion was passed by the Board of Health to recognize “Anti-black racism as a public health crisis�

(Global News, June 8th, 2020). According to councillor Joe Cressy, “Anti-black racism is a public health crisis. Black Torontonians are twice as likely to live in poverty than visible minorities. 40% of black children live in poverty compared to 15% of non-racialized children. That’s a public health crisis. Black women earn 57% for every dollar than nonracialized men earn, that’s a public health crisis.�

Toronto Mayor’s John Tory has given full support to the city’s board of health to focus on rearranging resources to address the social determinants of health

natalya@le

ndmorefina

ncial.ca

416-837-54 | www.lendm

60

orefinancia

l.ca

with respect to ta racialized minorities. He has indicated that he is open to recommendations for the 2021 budget given the challenges that are placed on the city due to the fallout from CIVID-19. The focus will be on tracking anti-black racism in the community.

A coalition of black health leaders called on the Ontario government to declare that there is a public health crisis in the province. The joint statement reads, “We cannot be silent in the face of on-going horror black people are experiencing in Ontario, across Canada, and in the United States.� Liben Gentemikarel, Executive Director of TAIBU Community Centre called for diversity on the board of health, and has requested a 10-year anti-black racism action plan, as well as an anti-black racism initiative.

There is positive momentum to significant and long-lasting solutions to social, political and economic problems that affect the chances and opportunities of racialized minorities.

PAGE 36

LIFE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Queens University’s new Faculty of Law diploma program NANA ADJEI-POKU nana@carib101.com

LEGAL SPECIALIST

After winning a successful bid to the Immigration Consultants of Canada Refugee Council in 2019, Queen University’s Faculty of Law will be launching a new Immigration and Citizenship Law Graduate Diploma commencing August 2020.

The University will be the only educational institution providing this program in English. For those wishing to enroll in the French-language program, Université de Sherbrooke will be the only institution offering these programs in French come September 2021.

Previously, various private colleges delivered the immigration consultant certificate program, one of the final streams that I enrolled in this past six months. Over the years there were complaints about the former program as there were consultants providing services way below the competency level, and the duration was way too

short for complicated content such as immigration law. I can honestly say that the former curriculum was mediocre in comparison to other certificates or diplomas I attained. I felt the quality of the teaching was substandard and was not worth the money I paid. I can also say having a previous background in law was an asset so I am eager to see how this program will be.

The new program will commence online classes as of January 2021 and will be a two-year program consisting of nine courses that will be offered in both academic and competency formats. It will be the University’s third program to be launched in an online format in the past four years.

The reason behind the online format, according to the Dean of Law, Mark Walters is that “Offering programs online may help Canadians understand the law and may promote access to justice, which is a key value of the law school.”

In the immigration law industry, your skills have to equal your knowledge and this program promises to embed these in each of the courses, which will distinguish from previous programs that were offered via the private institutions. I am happy to see that this course will be offered more efficiently to allow future applicants to be able to learn at a comfortable pace and not feel rushed having to learn a twoyear program within a six-month duration.

Bidding on a home?

Ask for repairs Unless a house is brand new, chances are that something in it needs to be repaired.

Here’s what to consider when requesting a home be fixed prior to purchase.

DETERMINE WHAT’S IMPORTANT Home inspections typically turn up a host of issues, but only some of them should be cause for alarm. Be on the lookout for: • Galvanized water pipes. They tend to corrode over time, although it’s common to simply repair them.

• Orangeburg water pipes. If the home has these pipes, they should be replaced entirely.

• Roofing issues. If a serious problem is found, sellers may agree to replace it.

• HVAC or heating problems. If the HVAC system is nearing the end of its lifespan, get it inspected in case it needs to be replaced.

FOCUS ON THE BIG PICTURE When requesting repairs, prioritize major problems as well as anything that’s a safety concern. Asking for little fixes all over the house is unlikely to be well received. It’s not worth putting the transaction in jeopardy for minor cosmetic issues.

KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT Keep in mind that sellers aren’t obligated to accept repair requests. In fact, in a seller’s market, they may simply refuse because they know they’ll get another offer.

Finally, keep in mind that it’s sometimes better to get a cash credit than it is to get the owners to make the repairs. Speak with your realtor to determine the best option.

Wednesday, June 24, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

Shopify X Walmart: Will this marriage topple Amazon?

CHRISTINA GWIRA christina@carib101.com

TECH SPECIALIST

It seems that most of my articles for the past couple of months have surrounded two things: podcasts and Shopify… and with good reason. Firstly, with the advent of quarantine, work-from-home orders and the like, more people were looking for something to do and be preoccupied while doing the mundane. However, Shopify has also been continuously popping up in the news, and this week is the same: Shopify is in the news again for doing something big. I got the news on Monday, June 15th, 2020 that Shopify and Walmart were teaming up in a big way.

What kind of way might you ask?

Walmart is planning on bringing Shopify onboard to assist them in overhauling the eCommerce department of their business. Next to Amazon, Shopify is slowly becoming the darling of the internet: a rising stock price; a BOOM in traffic to ALL Shopify stores since COVID-19 hit; a partnership with Facebook barely a month ago (we reported on that, check the previous edition) and now this partnership with the legend that is Walmart.

But what does this mean for the little guy, people like you and I? Well, at the moment, we can’t use or tap into the possibility of this partnership just yet. People everywhere are gunning for Amazon’s spot and Walmart more than anyone. They’ve been slowly lagging behind in the eCommerce race and have continued to lose market dominance to Amazon’s speedy delivery, massive warehouses and even on price, but barely.

I must say, if before you were ignoring the behemoth that is Amazon, you better think again. I myself had never purchased from Amazon till I was unable to purchase goods from my local favorites. I wasn’t able to find products in store due

to COVID-19, so I went online, to Amazon, to see whether I could stock up. Lo and behold not only was I able to stock up on what I needed, I was also able to get it at a great price WITH free shipping.

From what has been revealed, the Shopify-Walmart partnership would allow (at the present moment) American merchants to sell their products on Walmart’s soon to be rolled out, brand, spanking new, Shopify powered marketplace. Shopify anticipates that approximately 1,200 merchants will be using the new Walmart marketplace to sell their products. Can you imagine the possibilities? This would provide Shopify shop owners with the opportunity to get in front of some 120 million people, who currently use the current iteration of the Walmart marketplace on a monthly basis.

Of course, with news of this partnership, there came the jump in Shopify’s stock price. Touted as the darling of the Canadian markets, Shopify has beaten long-standing RBC as Canada’s most valued publicly traded company. At the time of this writing, Shopify’s current stock price sits at $817.36 USD, a far cry from the $300+ it was trading at at the beginning of September 2019.

This is something that I cannot stress enough, especially as a web designer, but also a member of the black community. If you have a product that you would like to sell to the masses, the best thing that you can do is start your online store today. Don’t wait till tomorrow. As each day passes on, there are more and more opportunities to bring your vision to the world. With tools like Shopify and the internet at large at your back, you have the power to be able to change the tide for your generational tree. This partnership could be just the thing that could catapult your business to the next level.

I am hopeful and very excited to see how Shopify plans to integrate the standard Shopify backend with the Walmart marketplace. Funny enough, I have a client who is currently working on integrating his store with Amazon… maybe he should wait a while and see what this partnership could look like for his business...

TECHNOLOGY

PAGE 37

PAGE 38

HOW TO

HOW TO CHOOSE LIVING ROOM FURNITURE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Whether you want to spruce up your living room or completely remodel it, choosing new furniture can be a challenge. Here are some tips that can help.

IDENTIFY YOUR NEEDS Consider how the space will be used. If you watch a lot of TV or enjoy frequent movie nights, opt for a comfortable couch with enough space for the whole family. For avid gamers, an entertainment unit with shelves to store consoles and controllers is a practical purchase. A coffee table that can be adjusted to various heights is a great solution if you tend to eat your meals in the living room.

Additionally, a sofa bed is a versatile choice if you need your living room to double as an occasional guest room. You should also determine how much storage you’ll need to ensure the space is functional and free of clutter.

ASSESS THE SPACE Measure the dimensions of your living room before you go shopping to make sure you choose pieces that fit. If you want to maximize the space’s potential, sketch out a few different floor plans. Keep in mind the location of windows, doorways, base-

HOW TO LIVE A LONG AND HEALTHY LIFE

If you want to increase your lifespan, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help prevent illness and injury. Here’s what you should do to live a long life.

EAT WELL An abundance of nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, whole grains and fish packed with omega-3 fatty acids are vital components of a healthy, balanced diet. You should also limit your consumption of trans fat, salt and refined sugar.

STAY HYDRATED Drink at least two litres of water every day to help your body absorb nutrients, regulate your temperature and eliminate was­te. You can supplement your liquid intake with broth, milk and juice that’s low in sugar.

WATCH YOUR WEIGHT If you’re overweight, you risk de­ veloping a range of health problems such as cancer, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. You’re also more likely to experience joint pain and reduced mobility.

GET ENOUGH SLEEP Adults should sleep between se­ ven and nine hours every night. To optimize your rest, establish a consistent sleep schedule and invest in a quality mattress and pillow. You should also avoid eating and limit your use of electronic devices before bed.

board heaters and floor vents when you design the layout. You should also take note of whether direct sunlight will create glare on the TV screen or potentially fade furniture fabric.

ESTABLISH A BUDGET Evaluate your financial situation and inquire about financing options for big-ticket items. Once you know how much you can afford to spend, decide on a budget and stick to it. Keep in mind, however, that while quality pieces are more expensive, they’ll also last a lot longer. It may be worth shelling out a bit more for furniture if it’s well made.

SETTLE ON A STYLE When buying new furniture for your living room, it’s best to choose pieces with colours and textures that complement one another. Additionally, deciding on a design style will help guide your choices and allow you to successfully pair wood, metal and glass pieces. From the whimsy of bohemian chic to the crisp simplicity of Scandinavian, there’s a wide range of styles to select from. Choose one you love and pick your items accordingly.

TEST EACH PIECE Before you purchase a sofa or chair, try out the floor model to make sure it’s comfortable. If you find a few items you like in the same store, ask if they can be placed side by side so you can see how they look together. You should also bring along paint chips, swatches and photos to help you find furniture that matches what you already have.

To simplify your search for living room furniture and help you create a cohesive space, consider hiring a professional interior designer.

REMAIN ACTIVE Health experts recommend that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of aerobic exercise every week. In addition to providing physical benefits, an active lifestyle helps boost your mood, improve your memory and reduce stress. Choose an activity you enjoy to ensure you stay motivated.

EXERCISE YOUR MIND To delay or prevent cognitive decline, you should challenge your brain on a regular basis. Reading, learning new skills, solving puzzles and playing games are all great ways to stimulate your brain.

MAINTAIN YOUR SOCIAL CIRCLE Regularly visiting friends and family helps decrease feelings of depression and anxiety. Social connections can also strengthen your immune system and lower your risk of developing dementia. Plus, group activities are often a great source of entertainment and laughter.

LEARN TO MANAGE STRESS From ulcers and irritability to migraines and high blood pressure, stress can have serious consequences on your health. Explore various ways to relax and reduce stress such as breathing deeply, listening to music and practising yoga.

CONSULT HEALTH PROFESSIONALS Depending on your age and health, you should visit your doctor, dentist, optometrist and other health-care specialists every few months or years. If you experience any concerning or persistent symptoms, schedule a consultation right away.

In addition to adopting these healthy habits, you should avoid smoking and limit your alcohol consumption to the recommended amount.

FUN

Wednesday, June 24, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 39

WEEK OF JUNE 21 TO JUNE 27, 2020

ARIES

The luckiest signs this week: VIRGO, LIBRA AND SCORPIO

If you have a move coming up, there will be little time to spare this week. Luckily, you’ll manage to stay on top of your schedule and plan your days carefully to ensure smooth sailing.

TAURUS

Your kids are over the moon about the start of the summer holidays, and you’ll spend a lot of time driving them around this week. You’ll be approved for a loan or get a great deal on a major purchase.

PUZZLE NO. 712 ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 712

HOW TO PLAY :

GEMINI

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

If there’s been something wrong with your relationship recently, don’t put off talking to your part­ner about it. Communication is the only way to fix the problem.

CANCER

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.

Show your employer or signifi­cant other that you can be bold.

Take matters into your own hands. When you do, you’ll gain respect in all areas of your life.

LEO

If your relationship is relatively new, your partner will show signs of a deeper commitment. You may even consider living toget her or starting a family. Your imagi­n ation will run wild this week.

PUZZLE NO. 2 45. Slick 48. Unpleasant 52. Unruly kid 55. Diamond calls 57. Distinctive time 58. Price 59. Chimney duct 60. Walking on ____ 61. Highly impressed 62. Printed words 63. Like a ____ of bricks

ACROSS 1. Find a sum 4. Basis 8. Husband’s spouse 12. Scheduled to arrive 13. Jealousy 14. Constant 15. Slippery fish 16. Pile

17. Stared at 18. Piece 20. Security device 22. Mischievous child 24. Consuming 28. Door fastener 31. Found’s companion 34. ____ good to be true

35. Yield to commands 36. Kind of grain 37. Skin condition 38. Long scarf 39. Old stringed instrument 40. “____ So Cold” 41. Wait on 43. Filled dessert

DOWN 1. Summer coolers 2. Fencing event 3. Snack store 4. Tailor again 5. Wallet stuffer 6. Shaped like an egg 7. Printed mistake 8. Calendar divisions 9. Climbing plant 10. Lawyer’s payment 11. Discontinue 19. Detroit, e.g.

21. Used scissors on 23. Scheme 25. Urge

26. “____ but the Brave” 27. “Life ____ On” 28. Certain haircuts 29. Clarinet’s cousin 30. “King ____” 32. Rowing device 33. Stair 37. Cruising 39. Floral wreath 42. Cast a ballot 44. Map graphic

46. Place for hay 47. Santa’s time 49. Sofa 50. Set of three 51. Knitter’s material 52. Bathing-suit part 53. Uncooked 54. Had food 56. Semiformal wear

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 2

VIRGO

You’ll have a sudden urge to treat yourself. You deserve a few extra moments of happi­ness, so take the time to pam­per yourself. You’ll be influen­ced by your friends’ opinions while shopping.

LIBRA

Whether you’re single or not, someone from work will make advances that take your breath away. You’ll feel some kind of pres sure from the people around you.

SCORPIO

Summer is here and you have a big family trip planned. If you’re driving to your destination, don’t forget to pack a map or update the GPS.

SAGITTARIUS

You’ll be overjoyed by your chil­dren’s report cards. Their suc­cess will make it hard to refuse them anything. Be prepared for them to ask for the moon, or at least something outside of your budget.

CAPRICORN

If you’re not sure where your relationship stands, now’s the time to start a conversation with your partner. This will strengthen your bond.

AQUARIUS

You’ll contemplate starting your own business, which will even­tually be very profitable. If you’re single, a special someone will enter your life, although they might be discreet and reserved at first.

PISCES

In order to find your path in life, both professionally and person­ally, you need to build up your self­esteem and learn to respect yourself.

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.

@tccfangels #tccfangels | to donate www.tccfangels.com

FOR SALE FOR SALE WESTMORELAND: GrangeHill House Spot/Land for sale close to Negril é Sav.. $21000.00 CA. Clear Title after Cash Payment.

647-267-6949 REDUCED FROM $700,000 CAD TO $600,000 (NEGOTIABLE): RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL - 4 bedrooms, library, family room, Nany’s room, enclosed garage, 40 ft open balcony, additional 40 ft building on 10,000 sq. ft. land.If interested, please call 905-660-4744 or email: shahs@rogers.com

FOR RENT SALE FOR ROOM: Furnish Rooms for Rent in Brampton.Close to Shoppers World Female students or working person prefer . Non Smoker ,no pets, ground level walk out to large backward. Call 416-9999720.

FOR RENT SALE FOR

WANTED

1 BEDROOM : Chingucousy/ Bovaird 1 bedroom basement Apt. for RENT,in a quiet Christian home, April 1st mature working person only, walkout entrance and share laundry, strictly no Pets/Smoking. $950.00 Call 905 495 7092

CAREGIVER: Experience Caregiver looking for a full or part time position to work in a home taking care of seniors. Available on weekends. Call Kristine 647971-8983.

FORWANTED SALE HELP

TRAVEL COMPANION: Do you love to travel? I’m looking for someone to travel with as company. I am Pete, 45, phone 416 264 3024. email golden7words@ yahoo.com

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY SEEKING MALE/FEMALE FOR A COOK/CLEANER TO WORK IN A PERSONAL CARE HOME IN DOWNTOWN TORONTO. CALL MARTHA 416-922-7674 OR EMAIL RESUME

kennedyresidence1@rogers.com

PERSONALS

SERVICES MOVING & DELIVERIES: Williams Moving and Delivery Services | Van Moving $60/hr | Van Delivery $50 | 416-570-9065

FOR SALE WORSHIP

FOR SALE WORSHIP SUNDAY SERVICE: Fountain of Truth Ministries Pastor: Reverend Maxine Campbell Worship Address: 2170 Kipling Avenue, Etobicoke Percy Johnson School – Cafeteria Sundays: 10.am – 2. pm Teaching, Worship, Ministering For info call: 416 748 0211 MISSISSAUGA: Mississauga Missionary Baptist Church invites you to join us at 1620 Dundas St West, each Sunday at 10am for praise, worship and in-depth Bible teaching with Pastor Sean, 416-219-9137

POST YOUR CLASSIFIED UP TO 30 WORDS FREE!

Subject To Space Availability - Call 647-722-6298 Some restrictions may apply. Contact us for more information.

Protect The Financial Security Of The Ones You Love

African fashion styles for women and men including lace, African prints, shoes, jewellery and much more.

2464 Weston Road, Unit 117B Toronto, ON - M9N 0A2 Tel: (416) 619-0037 www.lemuorah.com

• Paying too much for insurance?

• Considered a high risk driver?

• Specializing in Auto, Home and Commercial Insurance • Call for a fast and easy quote!

BIANCA TOMLINSON B.A Hons, RIBO

CALL - 647 973 7589 AiA Insurance Brokers Ltd. 5875 Hwy 7, Unit # 200 B, Vaughan, ON L4L1T9.

Tel: 416 504 0990 www.aiainsurance.ca

VINYL RECORDS

WANTED

Paying top dollar for quality record collections.

Interested in LP’s, 45’s, and 78’s ALL GENRES OF MUSIC WELCOME!

CONTACT CHRIS AT

716-930-1319

AUTO

INSURANCE

LIFE INSURANCE Only $45/month for $500,000 Age 35 Non Smoker for a 20 Year Term GET A QUOTE BY PHONE

Call 647-867-7809 Get a Quote Online PurchaseLifeInsuranceOnline.com

Ages 1 - 80, Term, Whole Life and Non Medical Options Available

Are you looking to make an extra $500-$750?

Get fit & inspire others to do the same!

College students.

Stay at home moms.

Someone looking for P/T or Career business.

Someone looking to build a business.

DON’T DELAY CALL TODAY!

Call or text Michael

647-870-3630

Bramalea Physiotherapy & Wellness

BRAMPTON 18 Kensington Rd. Suite 200 Brampton, ON L6T 4S5 905-792-7757 ETOBICOKE 81 The East Mall, Suite 105 Etobicoke, ON M8Z 5W3 416-251-7000 WHITBY 814 Brock Street North Whitby, ON L1N 4J5 905-430-5605

BACKYARDIGAN Food Truck

Sandra's Multicultural Fashion Boutique & Custom Sewing Alteration Done on Premises Can restyle any outfit

Catering available for: • Weddings • Special Occasion • Backyard Party • On Site Catering

Specilizating in Wedding, Men's Suit, Traditional Indian Wear, Motorcycle Leather Jackets, Pants and much more

TEL: 416-456-9834

Tel: 416-418-7881 TEL: 705-291-1100

RKB Accounting & Tax Services Personal, Self-Employed, Corporate Tax filings for USA and Canada, Financial Statements, Bookkeeping, Payroll, HST, and WSIB Services 100 Hanlan Road Unit 3, Woodbridge ON L4L 4V8

TEL: 647-692-5677

www.backyardian.com backyardian4444@gmail.com

REGGAE MUSIC WANTED Cash for Jazz,Soca, Soul LPS and Reggae 45's Also buying speakers, turntables and stereos

Marcus 416-844-9990

PAGE 42

REAL ESTATE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

How I got evicted JAY BRIJPAUL brijpaul@carib101.com

REAL ESTATE PRO

The cool summer breeze had departed as the morning sun rose. I sat on the patio and drained the last few drops of coffee. My thoughts went back to the hearing I had at the Landlord and Tenant Board. I had fallen behind with my rent. I had received an order to vacate my home by a certain date, but I knew that it was a long process. I resolved to flout the order and stay.

After the termination date in the order, my landlord applied through the court’s enforcement office, known as the sheriff’s office, for eviction. Such must be done with the Sheriff’s office in the area where the rental property is. I knew that time was on my side since my landlord would have to put aside an entire day for this project. He would also have to complete an application for

eviction plus pay about $350.00 plus mileage charges.

I received a regular mail from the Sheriff’s office. It was a notice to vacate the property. I had another month and then had to leave by 8:30 a.m. I knew that if I didn’t move, my landlord would call the Sheriff’s office and schedule a date for eviction. He would have to inform the Sheriff’s office by 11:00 a.m. on that day otherwise the eviction would be aborted, and my landlord would have to pay an additional $240.00 to reschedule. Usually, at around 11:30 a.m. on the date given for eviction, the Sheriff would advise the landlord of the exact date and time the eviction will happen. This can range between one to five days from then and it is only tentative. I was on a mission; I wanted to drag the process out as long as possible.

It is a requirement that my landlord must be able to grant entry to the home. If not, the eviction order can be cancelled. I installed a second lock on the door hoping that I could stay longer. The doorbell rang, followed by a loud knock and shortly after the sound of drilling of my locks began. The Sheriff was pleasant. He gave me two hours to leave the premises. I started packing

slowly and called a few friends for help. Help never came. Two hours later, I was asked to step out of my home.

I knew that I could have avoided the eviction by paying the rent arrears along with the fees incurred by my landlord after the termination date but before the date I was given for eviction. I would have had to file a sworn affidavit stating the amount paid to the Landlord and Tenant Board prior to the date of eviction. This motion can only be given once in any given tenancy agreement and this was my second time.

As for my belongings, I knew that I would have 72 hours to retrieve them. During that time, my landlord could leave them in the rental unit or store them in a safe place close to the rental unit. The law required that he gave me access between 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. If I did not retrieve them, then he could sell or dispose of them. If my landlord failed to comply, I could file a complaint with the Rental Housing Enforcement Unit or with the Landlord and Tenant Board.

It’s been about five months since my landlord decided to evict me. First, he gave me the N4, Notice to End the Tenancy for Failure to Pay Rent, then there was the hearing at the Landlord and Tenant Board

which took a few months to schedule and finally the eviction. Some of my friends got away with longer because their landlord was too lenient at the beginning and gave them a few months to catch up while some landlords failed to use the Board prescribed forms and had to start over. I had tried to ask the Board to postpone the hearing for a later date because I was not feeling well but they declined. Now, I owe the landlord close to ten thousand dollars and he may want to collect.

One form of collection my landlord might take is to garnish my wages, where my landlord will receive a portion, usually 30 % or less, from each of my paychecks, until my debt is repaid. For him to do so, he must obtain a judgement against me. A judgement is an acceptance by the court that my landlord has a claim against me. He must know where I am currently residing and where I am working.

I felt responsible for what happened. My landlord would have worked out an arrangement with me. With a judgement against my name and a bad tenant review, it will be difficult to find another rental accommodation and whenever I manage to find a job, he can garnish my wages.

PAGE 44

FINANCE

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

How is the falling market affecting your retirement plans?

FAZAAD BACCHUS fazaad@carib101.com

FINANCE SPECIALIST

Over my 30 years in this industry I have seen many clients who prefer to make very little return on their investments at the expense of their overall retirement plan. What causes a person to say that “I would rather have a small return than take a bigger risk for a better return?” Most people would rather take a small loss over a large gain coupled with large potential losses. Ask yourself, would I take an investment where I can earn a 7% return but can suffer a 7% loss just as well or am I more comfortable with a 3% return and a possible 3% loss?

When the markets behave as they have done this year, those who are with the

7% typical return investments have seen their investments sink much faster. Most investments of this caliber have been down 7% and more year to date and it’s daunting to keep watching your money fall. The urge to get out of these investments, quit and sell become your watchwords. If you do, you might have just made a huge mistake.

Have you heard of paper losses? Paper losses or unrealized losses are very different from realized losses. If you sell then the loss is realized and you take the loss with you.

In planning for your retirement it’s important to talk with your advisor about your overall expectations and what is your expected average return. Investments are not constant and can also be quite volatile.

This year for example we saw the markets fall approximately 20% in the month of March. This is isn’t of course, our normal or caused by fundamentals; this was pandemic which by the way hasn’t come to an end as yet. I have clients who refused to open their statements at the end of March to look at their quarterly statements, fearing what it may look like. Fortunately most of

my clients are close to where they started at the beginning of year and we are well positioned for the rest of the year.

It’s important to talk with your advisor, if you have one. It may be a good time, now that the market has revived, to review your risk tolerance and make adjustments where possible. You might not be able to stomach another fall or worse yet if we have a second wave of COVID-19 and the markets tank. It may be a good time to consider investments with lower risk, especially if March was a tough month for you.

Another possibility to talk to your advisor about is getting into some guaranteed investments. There are some segregated funds that provide guarantees on principal, but that’s not as important as a monthly income for your retirement. Some companies will offer you a guaranteed income for life so you never run out of money. Whenever you pass away the residual balance will be paid to your beneficiaries.

There are options you have, but talk to a qualified advisor.

Business insurance after COVID-19 ANDREW STEWART andrew@carib101.com

FAMILY ADVISOR

On June 19th, 2020, areas of Ontario like Hamilton, Durham, Niagara, and several other regions will join most other parts of Ontario in moving to Stage 2 of reopening from the COVID-19 global pandemic shutdown. This will allow for outdoor dining at restaurants, resumption of business at hair salons and barber shops, as well as for public swimming pools and other services to operate. After enduring the hardest four months for businesses who were either forced to shut down entirely or reduced to partial operations owners are happy to be reopening but they still will have to embrace reality and prepare for the longlasting impacts of COVID-19.

As part of the process, many owners have asked if their business insurance covers COVID-19-related business closure or interruption.

In this uncertain climate, businesses are looking to understand how they can manage this crisis, limit their continuing financial losses, and perhaps seek avenues for financial relief. An obvious potential avenue for relief an owner should think about is their insurance policy. All businesses

should be speaking with their representative as to whether their existing insurance coverage can respond to COVID-19-related financial losses. The lifeblood of any business is cashflow and policies such as these are there to protect when a business is inoperable due to physical damage, such as a fire or structural damage. Disasters of this caliber can quickly, albeit temporary, close businesses, resulting in severe loss of income. Generally, commercial insurance policies and traditional business interruption policies do not offer coverage for business interruption or supply chain disruption due to a pandemic such as COVID-19.

Some businesses have sued on the basis that “COVID-19 contamination” on surfaces in their office or store is physical damage to their property and it has rendered the property unusable or uninhabitable.

Some policies also include coverage for civil authority interruptions, which is when a governmental authority such as the police orders the closure of businesses.

Although this coverage is mostly limited to circumstances where there has been physical loss or damage, the definition of this coverage can vary by policy. There is a possibility that if operations of a business are restricted due to a governmental order prohibiting access, coverage may apply.

Businesses that operate and draw most of their income from hosting and organizing large events are especially affected. Normally they would purchase event cancellation insurance which covers cancellation fees or other out-of-pocket expenses, but potentially lost income an-

ticipated from the event. Within event cancellation insurance policies, infectious or communicable diseases can either be included or excluded from coverage. Policyholders should be incredibly careful in how they describe the cancellation of their event for their claim. For example, most event cancellation insurance will not apply if the reason for the cancellation is poor attendance, regardless of the reason for that poor attendance. But it may apply if the event is canceled for health and safety reasons.

“The future depends on what you do today.” - Mahatma Gandhi Insurers are stubborn and are not easily persuaded to change their policies regarding pandemic coverage and business interruption. Our government will hopefully listen to its residents and recognize when policyholders have been given a bad hand.

An interesting development in the United States is taking place in New Jersey, where the state legislature is considering a bill to require insurers to pay COVID-19 business interruption claims expressly excluded by a policy “virus” exclusion. With the government supporting small employers with the temporary wage subsidy program (CEWS), defer payment of any tax payments until August 31st with no interest or penalties and financial support through loans and access to credit (CEBA), it will be a slow recovery but for now, it seems we are all on the same page.

FINANCE

Wednesday, June 24, 2020 | www.TOCaribNews.com | Toronto Caribbean News

PAGE 45

Five ways homeowners lose money while banks get rich CLEVE DeSOUZA cleve@carib101.com

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

While COVID-19 pushes Canada into a recession, home shoppers should rejoice.

You read that right. Now could be the time to buy a home.

Ignore the naysayers. Buying opportunities exist in every market, even during a global pandemic. When you hear about rising home costs on the nightly news, remember they’re talking about the overall market. Individual neighbourhoods still buck the national trends. And motivated sellers always are open to leaving money on the table.

For most Canadians, a personal home accounts for most of their wealth.

The process of buying a home needs to be

taken with care, especially if you are a firsttime home buyer. Buying a home to keep up with the Jones is not a smart strategy; however, if you intend to grow, then the pursuit of home ownership is beneficial.

This process can be daunting and overwhelming, especially for first-time home buyers.

Across the nation, 67% of us own our own homes, which is one of the highest rates of home ownership in the world, according to Statistics Canada.

Here are ways homeowners lose money while banks get rich.

Location, location, location Buying in the wrong location and at the wrong time could cost you dearly. You may have heard the saying “LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION is the key to buying real estate. What does this really mean? Imagine a farmer seeking fertile ground to plant seeds. The farmer needs to understand what makes a location fertile or futile.

Home buyers need to understand that location makes homes appreciate in value. If you pay $1,000 in closing costs and interest to the bank, your home should gain more

than $1,000 in value.

Paying more than the property is worth Paying more than the property is worth also helps the bank and hurts you. The emotional surge you feel when you see that home you love can quickly get you to pay more than it is worth. Fortunately, real estate is forgiving and over time you may get back on top. Be careful, though. Falling in love with a house could set you back and you may end up paying more interest to the bank than you should.

Ridiculous interest rates Falling for low payment options while not understanding interests and costs is another pitfall to avoid. The concept is the same as the credit card offers you get in the mail promising 0% interest for 6 months. At the 7-month mark, a ridiculous interest rate kicks in and you’re stuck with a high balance. Sometimes low monthly mortgage payment options include unusually high interest. Your monthly payment is low, but a high percentage of the payment is interest. Over time, you pay more interest than you might with a higher monthly payment.

Understanding prepayment options

You need to understand prepayment options and amortization in order to plan how to pay your loan off early. Amortization is the length of time it takes to pay off the mortgage. If your initial amortization is 25 years, a few extra payments a year can significantly reduce this time and the interest cost.

Decision to switch homes frequently Endless amortization by perpetually changing homes without a sound economic strategy steals away your equity. Buying and selling real estate comes with significant costs. The decision to switch homes is music to a banker’s ears because they stay in your pocket longer. If your home is appreciating well, stay put, or consider refinancing if you really need to pull equity.

While the above are general guidelines to avoid losing money, there is nothing that replaces getting help from trusted professionals. It makes no sense to be house rich and cash poor.

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!

@tccfangels #tccfangels | to donate www.tccfangels.com Canadian Charity Registration #86498 5726 RR0001

PLEASE BE SURE TO SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS BELOW!

TREATMENT FOR FOOT PAIN, WARTS, CORNS, CALLUS, FUNGAL NAILS, AND OTHER MEDICAL COMPLICATIONS WITH THE FOOT

Diabetic Foot Assessment Custom Made Orthoses BOWAN P. SANCHARRA - D. CH Chiropodist/Foot Specialist, Diabetes Educator

Bramalea City Centre: 905-791-5498 Scarborough: 919 Ellesmere Rd 647-239-4068

Buying or Selling a Home?

YOU CAN AID IN HELPING A CHILD IN NEED OF URGENT MEDICAL TREATMENT SIMPLY BY BECOMING A SPONSOR AND HAVING

YOU CAN AID IN HELPING A CHILD IN NEED OF URGENT MEDICAL TREATMENT SIMPLY BY BECOMING A SPONSOR AND HAVING

647-722-6298

647-722-6298

YOUR AD HERE!

YOUR AD HERE!

SPORTS

PAGE 46

Toronto Caribbean News | www.TOCaribNews.com | Wednesday, June 24, 2020

West Indies Cricket returns for the Sandals Tour of England 2020 KAYLA KARIM

kayla@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

One of the first live matches to return will be the Sandals Tour of England 2020 where the West Indies will defend the Wisden Trophy in three back-to-back Test matches.

On July 8th -12th 2020, West Indies and England will play behind closed doors to ensure the maximum safety for all of the

players.

West Indies players have all been tested for COVID-19 ahead of the tour, with the exception of Darren Bravo, Shimron Hetmyer and Keemo Paul who declined the invitation to travel to England for the tour.

The West Indies squad will make their return in new training and playing kits during the Sandals Tour of England as a part of a new three-year partnership with Castore. The new kits feature lightweight performance enhancing fabrics and an ultra-modern maroon, dark blue and pink design that the players love, according to Stanroek News. The new partnership with Castore will supply the team ids for Test, T10 Internationals and One Day International games covering the men’s, women’s and age group from Under-15 level

upwards. The new Test ‘whites’ will be revealed ahead of the upcoming Test series.

Fans will be excited to see their favourite players on the pitch, although the match will be behind closed doors, the players are just as happy to be back. Kemar Roach will face off against his fellow Barbadian, Jofra Archer .Despite these two being friends, Valkerie Baynes from ESPNCricinfo reports that, Roach admitted there is no room for friendship in the upcoming Test match.

“Jofra has made his decision and I think he’s done a fantastic job so far in his career but obviously there’s no friendships and stuff in this series…It’s all about winning and playing hard cricket so when we come up against Jofra I think we’ll devise a fantastic plan to counter him. I’m looking

forward to that battle and we as a team are doing the same”

The fourteen man Test squad and list of eleven reserves are as follows: Jason Holder, Jermaine Blackwood, Nkrumah Bonner, Kraigg Brathwaite, Shamarh Brooks, John Campell, Roston Chase, Rahkeem Cornwall, Shane Dowrich, Chemar Holder, SHai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Raymon Reifer, Kemar Roach.

The proposed match schedule is as follows: • July 8-12: 1st Test at Ageas Bowl, Southampton • July 16-20: 2nd Test at Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester • July 24-28: 3rd Test at Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester

Warrior Profile: The Lioness Amanda Nunes’ rise to the top of the MMA game MARCEL MARIAK marcel@carib101.com

TC JUNIOR REPORTER

When most people think of mixed martial arts, the visual that most commonly comes to mind is the stereotype of two big, burly, violent men slugging it out in the middle of the ring. Unfortunately, this cliché is based in truth: historically, the vast majority of MMA fighters and combat sports athletes in general, were male, and even in 2020 the gender demographic of fighters continue to lean towards men. In more recent times, female MMA fighters have started to emerge on the big stage of professional fighting, with notable names such as Ronda Rousey, Holly Holm, and Cris Cyborg climbing to the forefront of the MMA world. Despite the rise of several outstanding women in the fight game, one female warrior has taken centre stage as one of the greatest fighters of all time.

In this issue’s Warrior Profile, we

explore the life and career of one of the most phenomenal fighters currently competing in the UFC: Amanda “The Lioness” Nunes.

Early life and career Nunes, like a great many famous combat sports athletes, was born in Brazil in 1988.

She began training karate at only four years of age, and continued to train and compete in various martial arts throughout her adolescence, including boxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

In early 2008, at the age of 20 years old, Nunes made her professional MMA debut with the Prime MMA Championship.

Unfortunately, Nunes’ first fight ended in disaster for the Brazilian, with her being submitted with an arm bar only thirty seconds into the first round. After such a profound loss, many fighters would’ve hung their head, taken off their gloves, and concluded that a life in the ring isn’t for them; but not Amanda Nunes. In hindsight, it would seem that the harsh defeat sparked something in Nunes: a “fighting spirit”, so to speak, which would carry her to victory against several worthy opponents in the future.

Nunes stepped into the professional fighting spotlight only sixteen days after her defeat, and proceeded to defeat

her opponent in only 11 seconds. After that, Nunes would continue to smash her way through her foes, losing only three more fights out of a total of 24 matches.

Currently, Amanda Nunes’ professional record is 20-4, and despite being a brown belt in Judo, and a black belt in Jiu-Jitsu, the majority of her victories have come by way of knockout.

Professional accolades and achievements When it comes to achievements, Amanda Nunes is one of, if not the most accomplished female fighters of all time. She boasts many accolades and records which include becoming the first female “champchamp” by holding both the Women’s Bantamweight and Featherweight UFC titles consecutively, being the woman with the most UFC wins (12), being the woman with the most UFC title fights (7), and the woman with the longest UFC winning streak (11).

On top of her already impressive list of official accomplishments, she has won multiple awards and accolades from various MMA media sources. She was named the 2016, 2018, and 2019 female fighter of the year, as well as won both the Knockout and Upset of the Year prize for her stunning defeat of Cris Cyborg.

Tom rrow A BETTER

FROM HEAR 2 HELP YOU

WATCH LIVE ON

search @myTCNTV #myTCNTV | www.myTCNtv.com

EVERY FRIDAY

12PM

network

With Simone J. Smith & Dave Rankin

Fighting style When it comes to providing MMA fans with spectacular fights, Nunes never fails to deliver. Her exciting, high-pressure fighting style, paired with her outstanding physical stature, makes her an instant fan favourite. Due to her intense training regimen and above average height, Amanda Nunes often finds herself in the ring with challengers that are considerably weaker and smaller than her. As a result, her favourite fight strategy is to take the fight to her opponent, and win by any means at her disposal. Her training in multiple both striking and grappling disciplines makes her a lethal force in both the stand-up and ground-fighting game with some of her most spectacular finishes coming from an assortment of knockouts and submissions.

Amanda Nunes is not only an outstanding female athlete she’s also a trailblazer and an inspiration for women all around the world who are considering a career in combat sports. With her excellent fighting style and seemingly endless list of accomplishments makes her an instant fan favourite. That, paired with the fact that she’s only 32 years old, means that as long as she can remain injury free inside the cage, she has at least a couple more years to continue delivering stunning performances and gaining even more accolades!

HELP, WHERE YOU NEED IT Animal Communication Spiritual Mentoring Life Path Readings Intuitive Business Consulting Distance Energy Work For People & Pets Online Workshops

UPCOMING ONLINE WORKSHOPS Pet Reiki Animal Communication Animal Totems

TEL: 705-291-1100

www.UltimateHealingConcepts.com