Literacy Matters 111418

VOLUME 7 • ISSUE 20 • WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 14 2018

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LITERACY MATTERS

As fall blends into winter, people naturally come together to appreciate each other during this season of giving.

Although here in Canada we celebrate an early Thanksgiving, there is always so much for us to be thankful for, and many of us feel naturally inclined to do something meaningful for someone, which most times comes in the form of doing our part to give back to the community.

On Sunday, October 21st, dozens of Scarborough families gathered at

Centennial College’s School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Arts to engage in a new type of event bringing the community together in a fun, healthy and educational way.

This event, dubbed Eating and Reading, was an initiative partnered by Centennial College and The Reading Partnership, a community organization that works to address low literacy rates among children in East Scarborough.

44% of sixth graders living in the Kingston-Galloway-Orton Park (KGO)

ALYSSA MAHADEO/TORONTO CARIBBEAN community are not reading to provincial standards. The KGO community is one of Toronto’s most vibrant areas due to its population and diversity and it is full of people who care for each other. So much about this community is wonderful, and for organizations like The Reading Partnership seeing young people struggling is unacceptable. Literacy is a basic human right and the foundation for lifelong learning which too many of the youth do not experience or enjoy.

Continued On Page 8

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feature

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Kim Thomas Chase after Joy!

Written by Simone Smith Toronto Caribbean News

The key to changing your lifestyle is in your hands, and this is exactly what our woman empowered feature has been doing for people throughout her journey. One of the goals that Kim Thomas has is to help people make that move past their own fears; getting past that fear is what turns your dreams into reality. It is difficult for many people to truly understand their strengths, utilize their resources and support systems, and stay motivated in daily life. Kim has developed the ability to work one on one with men and women, turning their tragedy into triumph. Kim is passionate to serve and empower people and does so through: life coaching, wellness training, motivational speaking, and empowerment seminars. Her main method of working is via powerful scheduled telephone coaching calls, and the clients are given the control that many feel they have lost through self-tailored sessions.

The REALMe Foundation (Restoring, Elevating, Accepting and Loving Me – The Real Me), and Me

to We are two initiatives that Kim is actively engaged in developing locally and worldwide. To get involved you can visit http://www.onlifestylewithkim.com/ index.html for more information, and to learn more about this unimaginably beautiful woman.

“Beauty comes from Brokenness!”

At 17 years old, Kim went through an experience that would change the course of her life forever. She was out driving, which I am sure for a teenager was an amazing experience and the next thing she knew she was flying through the air and then darkness. The rest of the story was witnessed to her, as she had suffered amnesia because of the impact.

Kim had been going through the stoplight when another driver ran the red light and broadsided her vehicle, lifting it into the air and tossing Kim, breaking the majority of the bones in her body.

The jaws of life had to extract Kim out of her car, and she was flown to Sunny Brooke Hospital in critical condition. By the time Kim reached the hospital, she had lost a lot of blood because she had been hanging upside down in the car for a period of time; this rendered her into a coma, and there she stayed in darkness.

When Kim finally came to, friends and family surrounded her, crying and praying. The fact that she had come to was a miracle, and everyone around her knew that her journey had just begun. The damage to Kim’s body was innumerable, from a broken orbital bone to major breaks throughout her body, the doctors told Kim that she would have temporary paralysis lasting anywhere from four to five years. She would also need major reconstructive surgery on her face to fix the damage that had occurred. It was so bad that the hospital had to take out every mirror in her room and put her on suicide watch because of how bad she looked. The doctors told her that they would have to remove her eye and replace it with a fake

one. There was so much swelling that her face was disfigured, but the doctors told her that after the reconstructive surgery they would be able to save her face.

One day her mom came to her in the hospital and reminded her that regardless of what the doctor’s said, regardless of all the people praying for her, if she did not believe that she would get better, she wouldn’t. Her mother gave her the mirror, and Kim saw her face for the first time. She saw the disfigurement; she saw the stitches and the scars. At that point, Kim turned to God and asked him for help in healing her body; in turn, she would be of continued service to the world. Whether it was the powerful prayers and well wishes from others, or her promise to God, on that day, things started to change.

“Success is built on adversity!”

Having survived a major and near-fatal car accident, Kim fought against doctor’s diagnosis, and her own fear to overcome one of her greatest trials. During her teenage years, a time when young women are experiencing many firsts; first kisses, proms, first dates, Kim was fighting to heal her damaged body and soul. The doctors had told her that she would lose the use of her eye and have to get a glass eye; her eye miraculously healed and she now has perfect vision.

They had told her that she would need multiple plastic surgeries; Kim’s broken facial bones healed, and she did not need to get not even one cosmetic surgery procedure. When you see Kim today, you would never know that she had been through such a traumatic ordeal.

These struggles are what have given Kim her testimony and have birthed her destiny; to inspire others in living a life of purpose and passion.

“Happiness is tethered to circumstances; true joy is cultivated in the soul.” ~ Kim Thomas

Wednesday, November 14, 2018 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

local news

PAGE 3

All Good Things Come to an End! One Final Tour of Jamaica SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER Getting up on Sunday morning was painful. My feet hurt, my head hurt, geez! I don’t want to admit it, but I definitely cannot party the way that I used to. “Alright, let’s get a move on!” I dragged myself out of bed and threw on a maxi dress. I was in no mood to look fashionable this morning, just ready.

The grounds at Moon Palace were quiet on Sunday morning. I decided on a quick meal by myself at the Boulangerie, a small quaint bakery on the resort. “Hmmm! I would love a banana crepe please.” “Why don’t you try some strawberries with it?” “Not a bad idea!” I

made a coffee as my crepe was being prepared.

I was preparing myself for the day because I knew we had a drive. I had learned so much this trip, and I knew we had one more stop, Montego Bay!

After breakfast, we received a grand tour of the Awe Spa. I was amazed by details that were involved in creating the spa experience. From the weighted neck pillows to the scent of lavender and chamomile, the tour took me to another place. They had steam rooms and dry sauna, along with individual rooms set aside for more personal sessions. It was nice to experience before we hopped on the road again.

It was time to finish up the last leg of this trip, Montego Bay.

I think I had gotten used to the mountainous roads because my motion sickness was getting better. On our way out, we stopped by the Pudding Man, located in Priory, St. Ann. The owner Edgar Wallace and his wife were both there, and they were extremely friendly and hospitable. They took the time to answer our questions and served us the most amazing tasting pudding I have ever had. Just Coool Grocery,

Green Grocery & Variety Store has been a staple in St. Ann’s for over 13 years. The shop does so well, that there are times that police have had to speak to the owner about his customers causing traffic. After a taste of his pudding, I could completely see why.

I slept the rest of our way to Montego Bay, and when I finally opened my eyes, we were entering what looked like a scene from a movie.

The Jewel Grande Resort in Montego Bay has got to be the most amazing sight I have ever seen. It is that place you go when you want to get away from it all. From the time that we got there, we didn’t have to lift a finger. If you can imagine it, we had our own butler; yes, just like Jeffrey from Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. After checking in, I had a chance to take a look around; I truly enjoyed the artwork on the walls. They looked like the same artist painted them all; they had used colors in a way that can only be described as magical.

I took a quick tour of the sparkling pools, private beachside cabanas, and the private beach dumbfounded me. They had a state-of-the-art fitness facility, a beautiful spa

and a certain stillness that was relaxing. This resort had me because I could picture bringing my family here, and us all having a great time.

The resort has two buildings, each offering a variety of one and two-bedroom suites, threebedroom suites, fabulous three-bedroom villas, and luxurious two-bedroom penthouses. Our suites were prepped with a cheese platter, and an array of spirits including wine, and of course, a bottle of Appleton Rum. What I truly appreciated was how the staff greeted us; they put a hand on their chest, representing love for people and respect.

The rest of our time in Montego Bay included a trip to the Appleton Rum Estate (more details can be found in my column A Better Tomorrow), time getting to chat with the other journalists and eating great food. Having to say goodbye to Jamaica was hard, but I am glad that I was able to experience it all over again. I hope that each and every one of you who have read this article gets a chance to visit Jamaica. It is an experience that everyone should have, at least once. As they like to say in Jamaica, “Walk good,” and thank you for joining me on my trip.

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Wednesday, November 14, 2018 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Book Launch A Different Booklist LEANNE BENN leanne@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

There’s nothing better than the warm words of literature to transport you to another world on a chilly autumn evening. Found in the heart of Toronto, A Different Booklist is the home to many cultural heartbeats and it is more than just a bookstore, it proves to be a cultural hub, with a range of multicultural artifacts and home to the book of many Caribbean authors.

November 10th was another night to celebrate as the store hosted the book launch of two Trinidadian born female Caribbean writers. Madeline Coopsammy and Glynis Guevara. These women were the special guests of the night in an intimate and cozy ceremony to mark their latest literary accomplishments.

Guests were treated to various selected readings by both authors who were able to independently transport listeners to their native land of Trinidad and Tobago.

In the first reading, Madeline Coopsammy spoke about her book entitled The Old Songs: the book is reflective of Coopsammy’s past growing up in Trinidad while it was still a British Colony.

As no surprise, her fictional young adult novel, The Old Songs is set in the 1950’s and follows Tessa Joseph in her coming of age tale while growing up in the unsettled and ever changing British island colony.

Tessa’s East Indian background plays a big role in the novel as there are mentions of the changing social and racial dynamics with Europeans, Africans, Mixed race, Chinese, Syrians and Portuguese who have all settled on this island.

Tessa’s story is focused on the prejudices she sees from her family and the beginning of cultural traditions that have held on firmly in Trinidad.

As Coopsammy explained, the name of the book, The Old Songs is a quotation from a poem by the late and famed St Lucian poet, Derek Walcott. Her novel manages to reflect the racial and class hierarchy under British rule that many other Caribbean countries have

dealt with. Coopsammy clearly expresses Tessa’s journey through society as she aims to focus on education as a means to climb out of poverty and to break free from issues of racism that plagues her life growing up. The novel explores new life, issues of change and historical dramas, which really transports the reader into this time period. The Old Songs was published in October 2018 and accompanies Coopsammy’s poetry book entitled Prairie Journey published in 2004.

Glynis Guevara was the second author of the evening to partake in selections of her book, Black Beach. With many undertones of island life, Guevara tells the fictional tale of Tamara, a teenager growing up in a rural fishing community on a Caribbean island. The book explores emotional issues such as mental health, family dynamics, friendships, relationships and even environmental factors such as an oil spill which eventually brings havoc to the small village of La Cresta. This young adult novel is reflective of growth, uncertainty, instability and the outlook of the future, while describing scenes easily imagined in island life. As Guevara even stated, while doing research for the book, she visited Maracas Bay in Trinidad and spoke to local fisherman about their daily lives and to get a sense of sea life.

The entire story of Black Beach was inspired by a real oil spill that took place in Trinidad around 2013, that caused devastating consequences for many of the island’s animals and killing many mangrove trees which in turn changed the entire ecosystem.

While Black Beach focused a lot on transformation it was also reflective of Guevera’s personal life and the challenges that led her to begin working on this book. The book in turn, ended up being her second young adult novel, since her debut novel, Under the Zaboca Tree from 2017. Black Beach was published in September 2018.

Caribbean authors will always continue to inspire many around the world as they reveal insight into the cultural life of many Caribbean homes and general island life as a whole while exploring issues of the past in turn while waiting for the challenges of the future.

For more information on these books and the wonderful and talented women behind them: Madeline Coopsammy and Glynis Guevara, visit A Different Booklist online or visit their store at 779 Bathurst Street in downtown Toronto.

local news

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Wednesday, November 14, 2018 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

local news

Bad News Sells Better than Good News What do you stand for?

ALYSSA MAHADEO alyssa@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

It’s 8:00 pm and you’ve just finished up with dinner, so you sit down to kick back after a long day. You turn on the television, a journalist flashes on screen preparing to read the evening news, and you think to yourself, ‘What tragedy am I going to hear about today?’

Every day the news is filled with stories about war, terrorism, crime, pollution, inequality, drug abuse and oppression. With these glaring headlines always in your face, it’s hard to distinguish the real news from the questionable, and it’s easy to get roped into the negative emotionally provoking opinions.

“When we originally started the newspaper, we set out to be nonbiased, not taking a side, reporting on events how they happened as is,” says Grant Browning, President, and CEO of Carib101 Media Corp. and owner of the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper.

“In 2016 when we introduced Community Focused, our mission was to work on ways to start highlighting stories of people working to build, strengthen and empower the community.”

As a prominent media outlet in the Caribbean community, the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper is aware of who their readers are, and how they receive the news they share. The community is filled with people who feel they are at a disadvantage in modern day society.

Stories from other media organizations demonstrate how they are singled out because of the color of their skin, and many are everyday users of social media, which does nothing to filter out the good from the bad, and so the stories pushed to the forefront are the ones

that trigger negative opinions.

“Now more than ever with this constant spread of negativity we’ve realized and identified the need for positivity and the need to, build a stronger foundation, reinforcing it through the powerful groups advocating for change,” Browning says, “By sharing their stories and empowering the community to continue their work it is leaving a lasting impact on the next generation, making a huge difference in how we continue to implement positive change.”

Recent world events, in our country and across the border have sparked major controversy and issues over various affairs, and it’s easy to get pulled into the negative opinions of others.

By not reporting on these matters, it doesn’t mean that they aren’t important or don’t exist. As an ethnic newspaper, Toronto Caribbean exists in a niche market which allows us the privilege to choose what we report and highlighting positive news and success stories in the community which allows our readers to reinforce their positivity intake whenever they read the newspaper.

“Just as much as you might want to focus on things that are bad, there are also people out there involved in charity, raising funds for the less fortunate, or working to help aid relief efforts for unfortunate circumstances happening locally or in the Caribbean Islands,” Browning explains. “There are so many other things that we can choose to focus on instead of continuously dwelling on the negativity.”

As your local community newspaper, we are encouraging our readers to ask themselves the question, ‘WHAT DO YOU STAND FOR?’

Through this movement, we want to encourage you to think for yourself, formalize your own thoughts and opinions, control your negative news intake and choose to ask questions to discover why stories being shared by your friends on social media or on the

evening news has to garner a reaction.

“We are dedicated to serving the community positive, unbiased news. By picking up our paper, you can be sure that you are choosing to stem the spread of negative news and offer a brighter perspective helping in our mission to build, strengthen and empower the community for success,” Browning says.

Racism is still very prevalent in the world and in our community today, but without conversations working to solve the problem it continues to fester, grow and infect the masses. We are here to unite each other, make positive and impactful connections, eradicate negative stigmas and showcase the beautiful people of our community.

“These people aren’t looking to be recognized,” Browning states, “They are here to offer their kindness, and allow their actions to speak louder than their words.”

It’s easy to get caught up in the negative stories that permeate the news. Segregation, conflict, anger, and hate offer more problems and not enough solutions to see through the lies and manipulation that trigger widespread negativity.

How can we be better as a race?

How can we positively influence the culture, the history for the next generation? How can we come together as a strong united front, offer solutions and change the conversation?

We are committed to using our platform to build, strengthen and empower our community, but what do you stand for?

Spread the word, spark powerful and impactful conversation by sharing with us: WHAT DO YOU STAND FOR? Tweet us @tocaribnews using the #whatdoyoustandfor, or send us a video with your powerful message and lead our community in the fight against negative news toward a better, brighter tomorrow.

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local news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, November 14, 2018

35 Families come together for a story and a meal all in the name of literacy ALYSSA MAHADEO alyssa@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Continued From Page 1 -- “Institutions might not always see themselves as responsible for tackling issues such as low literacy rates in communities,” said Camesha Cox, executive director of The Reading Partnership. “Or they may want to help but might not know exactly what they can do. We’re thinking outside the box, finding ways to make anybody who wants to be involved a partner.”

Camesha is an Ontario-certified teacher with a Master’s Degree from the University of Toronto and has been a resident of the KGO community for over 20 years. Through the establishment of The Reading Partnership, she has made it her mission to make their vision a reality to ensure that every child in every community will have the skills and confidence needed to make positive choices for their lives and their futures.

The Reading Partnership is a project of Tides Canada’s shared platform,

which supports on-the-ground efforts to create uncommon solutions for the common good. Tides Canada is a national Canadian charity dedicated to a healthy environment, social equity, and economic prosperity. The Reading Partnership is committed to the principles of dignity, independence, integration, and equal opportunity.

The families arrived an hour past noon and were seated and served lunch.

The meal was served “family-style” with platters of sandwiches, vegetables and dips brought out and placed at tables where families could help themselves.

The entire meal which included soup and dessert was free for the families and prepared in surrounding kitchens

by Centennial Culinary Art students. The families were also granted one additional gift that day – a reading from children’s author Dr. Rumeet Billan, along with a free copy of her newly released book, Who Do I Want To Become?

Dr. Rumeet Billan is an awardwinning, internationally recognized entrepreneur, learning architect, speaker, author, and humanitarian. Her mission is to raise potential by designing experiences that build resilience.

After reading from her book, Dr. Billan led a discussion about the most common question that children and

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young people are often asked: what do you want to be? Dr. Billan’s book encourages children, and adults, to instead ask themselves who do you want to be? A question, the author says, that can be answered by character traits and attributes.

“It’s about creating positive habits around eating and reading so that children can have positive reinforcements,” Dean Joe Baker of Centennial College said about the event.

Ava Morgan a mother who brought her family to the lunch and literacy event shared, “I thought it was amazing, the book was inspirational, the message was good, and then to combine it with food – we weren’t expecting such an elaborate, delicious presentation.”

The Reading Partnership’s community-based project continues to work, teaching parents how to help their children read. When children fail, we all do. If children do not master the basics of reading and writing while they are young, they lose out on important opportunities and it’s harder for them to reach their potential. This creates a cycle that can be hard to break. That is where The Reading Partnership comes in.

They also work with local partners to promote and improve literacy in the communities that need it the most.

“We give families the tools they

need to help children learn to read. Our programs, such as the RPP, work best when caregivers are just as excited to learn as their child,” Cox explains. “When we all work together, the programs are rewarding and help make real, lasting change.”

The event catered specifically to families, and included a chartered bus from Toronto Community Housing, in an effort to keep the opportunity accessible.

In total, there were about 35 families in attendance with more than 100 guests who came out to learn more about the importance of literacy in the community, and how parents can help to set their children up for long-term success.

It’s something Dean Baker hopes to see again. “We try to stay really connected to our local community,” Baker said. ”The Reading Partnership has big plans and goals. We hope to be a part of that.”

The Reading Partnership continues their work grounded in research that helps them to better understand the community’s needs. Together with their partners, their efforts are driven by the Literacy Now! Research Project to make sure the work they dedicate themselves to is as meaningful and as effective as possible.

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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Extending a Hand of Friendship to Others Traveling the globe with the Honourable Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmed SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

There tends to be an over-focus on the negative and fake news; it has almost become the norm to turn on your television, or log on to your computer and find it filled with news about bombings, shootings, accidents; it gets to be a bit much at times.

It was a pleasure when Hassaan Shahid reached out to the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper with some wonderful news regarding humanitarian efforts currently happening within the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.

I was first introduced to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in March of this year, and I was instantly touched at the warmth of the community and their message of peace. Freedom of belief is a core tenet of Islamic teaching, and they continue to teach and spread peace to cultivate bonds and mutual affection with people from all walks of life. One way they have done this is by building Mosques across the globe and offering a safe place for those who are living in strife or turmoil.

October 2018 was a busy month for the Ahmaddiya Muslim Community, as His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad began a small tour inaugurating two new mosques: one in Baltimore and the other in Philadelphia, as well as a hospital in Guatemala. His Holiness began his trip in Philadelphia and is currently on his fourth visit to the United States since being elected as Caliph in 2003.

On October 19, 2018, His Holiness inaugurated the Baitul Aafiyat Mosque in Philadelphia. Over 175 dignitaries and guests attended the evening reception including the Mayor of Philadelphia James Kenny and Congressman Honourable Dwight Evans, a Member of the United States Congress. The Ahmaddiya Community has a special connection with Philadelphia. When the first Ahmadi Muslim Missionary by the name of Mufti Muhammad Sadiq first came to America in 1920, he landed at the port of Philadelphia. He was denied entry, and was unjustly imprisoned,

but little did he know that his imprint would be seen for years to come. While he was imprisoned, he showed such kindness and humanity that fifteen people accepted Islam through him.

This number grew to 5,000 people, and Philadelphia became a home for the Ahmaddiya Muslim Community.

Quick Fact* Philadelphia was one of the first colonial cities to permit freedom of religion and freedom of worship in America. It is also where the Declaration of Independence was signed.

His Holiness met with hundreds of Ahmadi Muslims who had traveled from various cities to meet the spiritual leader. At the inauguration, he addressed the fears that the Mosque might possibly bring; he brought to light the incessant negative portrayal of Islam in the media.

He clarified the objectives of all true Mosques: it was a place where Muslims can gather together to pray and strengthen ties of kinship and unity with one another. Although there are a multitude of prayer centers established by different Islamic Sects in Philadelphia, the Baitul Aafiyat Mosque is the first purpose-built Mosque. To complete the celebration, His Holiness was presented with the Key to the City.

“This Mosque should not merely show the locals what the physical attributes of a Mosque are, rather it should manifest the truly beautiful and peaceful attributes of the teachings of Islam for the whole world to see and observe.�

His Holiness completed his initial tour of the US with a stop in Baltimore, where he inaugurated the Baitus Samed Mosque before delivering the keynote address at a special reception on October 20, 2018. The welcome reception had over 500 guests including the United States Senator Ben Cardin, along with the Secretary of State of Maryland Honourable John Wobensmith.

His Holiness continued his tour and on October 22, 2018, he arrived in Guatemala for his first ever visit to Central America. The purpose of this visit was the inauguration of the Nasir Hospital, a large-scale humanitarian Project of Humanity First, an international charity established by the Ahmaddiya Muslim Community.

I enjoy sharing the work of communities who are actively doing their part to help humanity.

For more information on the Ahmaddiya Muslim Community, visit https://www.alislam.org/. Let us all continue to do our part!

Wednesday, November 14, 2018 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Power cut threaten to spoil LGE in Bartica GUYANA -- Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton was forced to intervene in a situation in Bartica earlier today when a disconnection crew of the Guyana Power and Light clashed with residents of the mining town in the middle of voting for the Local Government Elections.

The move aggravated a number Barticans including the Mayor of the town, Gifford Marshall and Chairman of Region Seven, Gordon Bradford.

Bradford commenting on the issue told the Guyana Chronicle…”this was a foolish move to carry out disconnection on elections day.” He shared that the people of Bartica are now complaining that

they are not going the cast their vote because they now have to take their time off to reconnect their current.

Marshall on the other hand tried to intervene at the GPL office in Bartica asking the team for leniency at this critical time. However, in his attempt, the supervisor who was sent from Georgetown was reportedly abusive to the mayor.

This prompted Minister Norton to intervene. Minister Norton also expressed his disappointment with the actions of the GPL staff and made contact with someone higher up.

- Guyana Chronicle

Vote for community development GUYANA -- The Alliance For Change (AFC) wrapped up their Local Government Elections (LGEs) campaign with a march and public rally at the hometown village of Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo on Sunday.

Addressing the crowd at Whim, the prime minister who is performing duties as President, called on the residents to turn up in their numbers and vote today for the development of their communities.

“We want educated, young, smart people to run your village… it is your chance to select leaders you honestly feel can run your affairs, not running for a few friends to give away lands to friends, not to giving away shrimp land to friends, not to give away to contractors or to give away contracts to their friends; you want people who are friends for the villagers, not those who scrounge after the village, not parasites who suck your blood after receiving your rates and taxes, and money from the government and do nothing for you; you have a choice to make,” he said.

The prime minister continued that the residents should be wary of those who try to create division by intimidation and fear mongering.

“Do not be turned away because of rac-

ism or hatred… throw away your fears, throw away this prejudice that they are trying to feed you on, it is not in your interest, it is to keep you away from electing good leaders… this is not about Whim, this is about people, this is not about party, this is about a village, you want to do better in this village… you have to get rid of the wicked people who try to hold you down, to keep you down, ” he urged.

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan in addressing the importance of local democracy, said local government elections help to teach people how to govern themselves at the local level, and gives rise to better rounded individuals who can move on to the national level and be better politicians.

“It teaches people how to govern themselves at the lower level, at the ground level, at the local level at the municipalities. It brings social cohesion… and when that happens we look for good character rather than ethnicity and racism,” he said.

The party’s local candidates for the area and other party members encouraged the residents to turn out in their numbers and vote for the “fit and proppa” candidates today.

- Guyana Chronicle

The battle is for Mabaruma GUYANA -- As the sun rose across the hills outside Mabaruma on Monday morning, Princess Lynk , an 83-year-old vendor was preparing to make her way to the polling station at Kumaka , the town’s business hub.

Lynk said she was the third person in line to vote at the Constituency, which is one of six within the township where the two major political parties had picked up equal number of seats in the 2016 Local Government Elections (LGE) polls.

The polling station was one of the busiest of the lot within the town, although large number of voters were trickling in at the Mabaruma Nursery School in the center of the town. There, the government enjoys more support and reports are that the numbers this year are similar to those in terms of voter turnout at that polling station.

Over at Hosororo Hill, residents were seen milling around the polling station at the primary school as early as 05:50hrs. One resident who voted along with his wife and daughter told the Guyana Chronicle that he had to go to work and as such he woke up his family early on Monday morning. “It’s better to just come and get it out the way,” he said.

Within the first hour of voting, close to 50 persons voted based on a tally recorded by this reporter and the numbers increased within the next hour.

As the morning progressed however, the groups of voters, mainly families, decreased.

A few members of the public expressed dissatisfaction that a group of persons associated with the opposition had erected a small both within the 200 yards distance of the polling station. There, the group was gathering supporters and recording names as early as 06:00hrs.

Over at the Koberimo Hill, residents of the small community voted early and reports are that like the other polling stations, there were no hiccups.

Koberimo resident Nadira Lackna told the Guyana Chronicle that this was the first time she voted at the LGEs. She said that she waited until the line grew

short before she decided to visit the polling station.

“I went around 8 o’clock. It hadn’t a line when I went out ,” she said.

Lackna said that everyone in the area was encouraged to go out and vote and she was not making herself an exception since, ”we have a lot of things to get done at Koberimo and I hope things happen for the betterment of the community.”

Businesswoman Joy Dodson told the Guyana Chronicle at Kumaka that she decided to participate as a candidate for the APNU at this year’s elections. Dodson said she made the decision in the interest of the people of Kumaka where she resides and operates a business. “I need to work for my people and we have to get closer to the people and listen to them. So I am working for them,” she said. This year , a number of persons told the Guyana Chronicle that there appears more encouragement from the main political parties for persons to vote at Mabaruma. “I think the competition is there . You seeing it even though 2020 is awhile from now,” Lorna Shepherd told the Guyana Chronicle. She said she has been ignoring the politicking which has been ongoing in recent weeks prior to the polls. She said that she will only raise her awareness to the goings- on Tuesday, the day after the elections.

Another senior citizen , Olga Thompson related that this was the first time she voted at LGEs. The elections were only held in 2016 after a 21 year hiatus under the previous administration.

Thompson, who lives at Hubu Hill on the periphery of Mabaruma , said that since the last elections several projects were undertaken by the town council at the town. She noted that there are still a few more which are left to be undertaken and like most residents, she was optimistic that regardless of who is elected to serve on the town council, he/she must serve in the interest of the development of Mabaruma.

- Guyana Chronicle

island news

PAGE 11

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island news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Nothing to fear about NIDS, PM insists JAMAICA -- Prime Minister Andrew Holness has again shot down concerns that citizens’ private information will be compromised with the implementation of the National Identification System (NIDS).

Speaking on Sunday night at the Jamaica Labour Party’s West Kingston and Area Council One annual conference at Kingston High School, downtown, he argued that there is a distinction to be made between anonymity and privacy.

“If you believe that because the State doesn’t know your name, that means that your business is private, you’re making a mistake,” he stated, pointing out that people freely provide their information when they, for example, use mobile phones, travel between borders, or open bank accounts, all of which require the divulging of personal and biometric information.

NIDS has been a source of controversy since the Government started to forge ahead with the national civil registry system. Legislators locked horns in both Houses of Parliament for weeks over the provisions, some of which the Opposition insists are unconstitutional.

The Opposition People’s National Party now has the Government in court over the matter, even while the Administration continues to roll out activities for implementation of the NIDS.

The Government has also insisted that

many of the provisions to which the PNP is now objecting originated from previous drafts of the law crafted by that party.

According to the Opposition, the legislation governing NIDS violates eight of 25 fundamental rights and freedoms.

“I don’t know what the big argument is about privacy,” Holness said on Sunday night. “Anonymity is not privacy. Privacy is when the Government sets rules and regulations about what information cannot be shared or can be shared under what circumstances, and defends those rules with integrity.”

He insisted that there are no reasonable grounds on which Jamaicans should harbour fear of a central civil registry. “Yes, you have the potential [for] the Government, who can use your identity, to target you, but dem can do dat anyway. But when you have a Government that is building out your civil registry, it means that we can provide you with so much more service so much more efficiently,” he stated.

The prime minister also told supporters that a unique identity would allow Jamaicans easier access to credit. “So you’re selling in the market, you have a good income coming in, but you try go to one of the banks, they can’t identify you. Now, with the national ID, you have an identity. That means something. Banks can now consider lending you funds because we know who you are and we know where to find you — so your

identity becomes an asset,” he said.

He implored citizens to resist “backward thinking”, embrace technology, and move away from informality. “We have nothing to hide,” he said.

Meanwhile, he pointed out that the data protection law is a companion measure to the NIDS designed to protect people’s information, and that the report from the Joint Select Committee, which heard submissions about the intended law from various groups, should be finalised shortly.

That committee, formed late 2017, was chaired by former Technology Minister Dr Andrew Wheatley, but has not met since March.

Opposition spokesman on technology Julian Robinson recently called on the Government to give priority to passing the legislation.

According to Robinson, since the March meeting, where a technical team was asked to prepare a report on the submissions, there has been no communication about the resumption of meetings to conclude deliberations. A new chairman has also not yet been named.

Media practitioners and other stakeholders have made clear their staunch resistance to some of the provisions in the Data Protection Bill during sittings of the committee, and have suggested that media houses be exempted.

- Jamaica Observer

JUTC could suspend services on 53 route amid threats JAMAICA -- Residents who travel on Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) buses on route 53 might be severely impacted, as the Government-run entity warns that services could be suspended.

A statement from JUTC Monday said that the police are conducting investigations into threats to the bus company, following a collision which occurred in the vicinity of Parks Road, St Andrew, on the HalfWay-Tree to Above Rocks, St Catherine, bus route.

The Jamaica Observer has learnt that residents are threatening to damage JUTC buses along that route after a young man was hit from his motorcycle by one of the buses on Sunday. While being rushed to hospital, the vehicle in which he was travelling crashed. He succumbed to his injuries Monday at the University Hospital of the West Indies.

The deceased has since been identified as 23-year-old Keimo Powell of Parks Road.

JUTC, in its statement, said that the man died “tragically after the bike he was [driving] veered in the direction of a [JUTC] bus in Above Rocks”. However, residents have refuted this.

The Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Corporate Communications Unit told the Observer Monday that both Powell and the bus were travelling in opposite directions when a disabled vehicle blocked the path of the bus, forcing it to move around it, and that was when the collision occurred.

The incident took place minutes to 10 o’clock on Sunday.

JUTC said: “Preliminary reports indicate that at around 9:50 pm Sunday, a bus was travelling

towards Above Rocks when a motor bike travelling in the opposition direction veered into the path of the bus.

It’s reported that the bike rider was being transported to hospital when the vehicle in which he was being carried met in an accident.

“...Information reaching the JUTC is that members of the community are threatening to damage JUTC’s buses in retaliation over the accident. The management of the bus company is expressing condolences to the family of the deceased. It must be noted, however, that any threat of violence, confirmed by the police, will result in the bus company pulling its service to the route to protect State property and life.”.

- Jamaica Observer

Longmore says public not properly sensitised about dangers of ganja JAMAICA -- Government Senator Saphire Longmore has accused the previous government of inadequately sensitising the public about the dangers of cannabis/ganja, when the drug was decriminalised in 2015.

Speaking in the annual Sectoral Debate in the Senate last Friday, Senator Longmore, a psychiatrist, said that when the drug was decriminalised its merits were made known on a daily basis, including its money-earning potential, as well as the uniqueness of the brand. But, she said, no research was done around cannabis use within the society, and the danger to vulnerable groups.

“The public sensitisation re the dangers of cannabis was woefully inadequate. Apart from highlighting the very grave danger to vulnerable groups, it would have been prudent to have done specific research around cannabis use within our society,” she said.

“A study of the pre and post decriminalisation use pattern amongst vulnerable groups would have been very useful now in our consideration of legalisation,” she added.

She noted what she described as “a shocking new study out of the University of Maastricht in The Netherlands”, which has revealed that smoking cannabis can treble the risk of developing a mental illness such as schizophrenia.

“In one of the biggest investigations launched into the long-term effects of the drug, scientists have uncovered dramatic evidence, proving marijuana is dangerous and can cause serious psychotic disorders in people with no history of mental illness,” she said.

“The research appears to confirm anecdotal evidence of the dangers of regular use. It shows that people who smoke cannabis are nearly three times more likely than non-users to develop a psychotic disorder like hallucinations, paranoia, manic depression and even schizophrenia and that risk increases with the amount smoked,” she noted.

She said that The Netherlands has one of

the highest rates of cannabis use in the world, because of its relaxed laws. But this is the first major study to examine the long-term dangers to mental health.

She said that there is a recognised possible link of cannabis to neuro-developmental disorders, including autism, cancer causation, heart and other vascular diseases.

“Now on the other side of the coin, I know of its tremendous medicinal value and the massive economic benefit that could be had from legalisation.

We see in both California and Colorado (USA) teen marijuana use went down post-legalisation. However, a new analysis of survey data finds that marijuana legalisation was associated with more cannabis consumption among eighth graders and 10th graders in Washington, but not among 12th graders in that state,” she noted.

She referred to information provided by researchers which suggested that legalisation of recreational marijuana use in 2012 reduced stigma and perceptions of risk associated with marijuana use, and argued that “social norms regarding marijuana use may have, in turn, increased marijuana use among adolescents in Washington.”

“They suggest that older students’ attitudes were unaffected, because they were already well-formed,” she noted.

“If we are to take the path of ‘freeing up the weed’, I implore that we do so responsibly, with full recognition of the dangers to vulnerable groups and with effective strategies to educate and prepare our population at large, but especially our children,” she said.

Senator Longmore also explained that prior to its legalisation of cannabis, the Canadian Government took a calculated public health approach to the legalisation and regulation of cannabis, with the aim of: raising awareness of health and safety facts about its use; preventing problematic cannabis use; promoting healthy choices; protecting youth by

restricting access to cannabis; preventing drug-impaired driving; strictly regulating the cannabis supply chain; monitoring cannabis use patterns; and, ensuring industry compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements.

She said that early federal efforts related to public education focused on building the evidence base to inform cannabis public education and awareness initiatives, with efforts including: conducting public opinion research to understand Canadians’ knowledge, attitudes and behaviour related to cannabis and drug-impaired driving; undertaking market research to inform approaches for campaigns to reach youth, young adults and parents; making note of the preadolescent risk; understanding lessons learned from other jurisdictions such as Colorado and Washington State to glean insight on priority audiences, messaging and timing for public education campaigns; and, engaging stakeholders with more than 90 organisations that are active in delivering public education and awareness activities.

“I would also add the awareness that needs to be had re cannabis in other forms of use such as edibles, pastes, ointments and salves,” she added.

Senator Longmore said that with the unknown links to possible illnesses, such as developmental disorders in children and adults, psychotic illnesses, cancer causation, heart and vascular disease before we fully ‘free up di weed’, Jamaica must ensure the sensitization of vulnerable groups such as pregnant and breast-feeding mothers, young children and adolescents, mentally affected and those genetically at risk, persons living with heart and/or vascular disease, persons predisposed to cancers and the elderly.

“This, indeed, would be taking the weed economy to higher levels in a responsible way,” she said..

- Jamaica Observer

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island news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, November 14, 2018

40 cops transferred for refusing polygraph tests TRINIDAD -- Fif­teen of 16 po­lice of­fi­cers at­tached to a sta­tion in the South­west­ern penin­su­la who re­cent­ly re­fused to take a vol­un­tary poly­graph test have all been trans­ferred.

The trans­fers were made by Po­lice Com­mis­sion­er Gary Grif­fith, who con­firmed the ac­tion Monday, say­ing he in­tends to clean up the T&T Po­lice Ser­vice.

Grif­fith said any of­fi­cer who re­fus­es to take the test was ei­ther cov­er­ing up for their fel­ low of­fi­cers or turn­ing a blind eye to il­le­gal ac­tiv­i­ty and crim­i­nal el­e­ments.

How­ev­er, ad­mit­ting it was not manda­to­ ry for an of­fi­cer to be poly­graphed, he said, “What I find very alarm­ing is that many of the po­lice of­ fi­cers are will­ing to poly­graphed or be asked any ques­tion at any lev­el to get in­to the of­fice. But when you get in­to the ser­vice they sud­den­ly have rights and don’t want to be poly­graphed,” Grif­fith said in a tele­phone in­ter­view.

Ex­plain­ing the rea­son­ing be­hind his re­cent move, Grif­fith said be­cause of the sen­si­ tiv­i­ty of spe­cif­ic units and their lo­ca­tions of­fi­cers must be poly­graphed to be part of them. He said some of the units fall un­der Spe­cial Branch and the Spe­cial Op­er­a­tions Re­sponse Team in­volved in spe­cial op­er­a­tions.

He said for years the pub­lic has ac­ cused the po­lice ser­vice of be­ing in­volved in the

il­le­gal en­try of weapons, drugs and hu­man traf­ fick­ing in the south­west­ern coastal ar­eas of Ica­ cos, Erin and Ce­dros. As such, he came up with a sim­ple way to deal with the is­sue, where he asked of­fic­ ers to vol­un­tar­i­ly be poly­graphed on ques­tions.

The ques­tions asked the of­fic­ ers if they re­ceive mon­ey for the il­le­gal en­try of weapons and drugs in­to the coun­try, if they are aware of those in­volved in the il­le­gal en­try of drugs and guns and if they have been op­er­at­ing as po­lice of­fi­cers to pre­vent crime from hap­pen­ing.

“It was amaz­ing to know that a whole po­lice sta­tion, 15 of them, they all re­fused to be poly­graphed on a sim­ple straight­for­ward mat­ter.

From cap­tain to cook,” he said, adding the sta­tion has 16 of­fi­cers and this would raise eye­brows.

The 15 of­fi­cers ranked from WPC and PC to in­spec­tor and sergeant.

Grif­fith, how­ev­er, re­fused to pin­point the sta­tion, say­ing based on the fact that the of­ fi­cers re­fused to be poly­graphed, they would not re­main in those sta­tions.

“They would be re­as­signed to oth­er lo­ ca­tions. I am the Com­mis­sion­er of Po­lice. I de­ cide where of­fic­ ers are post­ed any­way, any­time and any­where,” Grif­fith said.

“It is my call. I want per­sons who I could put my head on a block on…to know that they

are not com­pro­mis­ing the se­cu­ri­ty of this coun­try and af­fect­ing their fel­low of­fi­cers. They have to be trust­wor­thy.”

The of­fi­cers were giv­en four­teen days to trans­fer.

De­spite this, Grif­fith said the test­ing was not to find any­one guilty.

“It may very well mean that sev­er­al of them are aware of what is hap­pen­ing and they are not op­er­at­ing in the prop­er man­ner be­com­ing of a po­lice of­fi­cer, be­cause of ei­ther try­ing to cov­ er their fel­low of­fi­cers or turn­ing a blind eye,” he said.

In light of this de­vel­op­ment, Grif­fith said, “I have heard that some of them in­tend to take le­gal ac­tion. I look for­ward to any­one tak­ ing me to court and chal­leng­ing this. I have court clothes.”

He said he in­tend­ed to adopt the same ap­proach for of­fic­ ers in the North East­ern ar­eas such as Mara­cas Bay and Las Cuevas, adding he will find a way “to clean up the po­lice ser­vice.”

Grif­fith said he was will­ing to take the same poly­graph test the of­fic­ ers re­ceived when it the process is ful­ly im­ple­ment­ed, al­though he could not give a time­frame for this.

“My job is to open the Pan­do­ra’s box and clean up what­ev­er prob­lems they have. For years we have heard about po­lice com­pro­mis­ing

their po­si­tions.”

Con­tact­ed on the is­sue Monday, T&T Po­lice Ser­vice So­cial and Wel­fare As­so­ci­a­tion sec­re­tary, In­sp Anand Rame­sar, said the trans­ fers of 40 of­fic­ ers from the coastal ar­eas to in­land sta­tions at Point Fortin, San­ta Flo­ra, Siparia, Fyz­ abad and Oropouche had come to their at­ten­tion.

He con­firmed the trans­fers came as a re­sult of their re­fusal to agree to take vol­un­tary lie de­tec­tor tests.

Rame­sar said he was not sure who en­quired from the of­fic­ ers whether they should vol­un­teer for the tests, not­ing the as­so­ci­a­tion ex­ ec­u­tive was “not con­sult­ed” on the mat­ter.

“We are in the process of en­quir­ing as to who ap­proved this process and whether or not it has the au­thor­it­y of the CoP. It does raise some is­sues in terms of process, it does raise some is­ sues by of­fi­cers in terms of whether or not they were fair­ly dealt with?”

He said, how­ev­er, that it was dif­fi­cult to say if the trans­fers were based on vic­tim­i­sa­tion since trans­fers are a nor­mal process. Rame­sar has since asked the of­fi­cers to put their com­ plaints in writ­ing, fol­low­ing which they will meet with Grif­fith.

- Trinidad Guardian

HDC tenants in quandary over unsafe homes TRINIDAD -- Al­though their homes are struc­ tural­ly un­safe, res­i­dents who live in the Hous­ing De­vel­op­ment Cor­po­ra­tion’s Welling­ton Gar­dens, Tar­o­dale Hills, Hill­crest Gar­dens, Ridge­wood Gar­dens, Har­mo­ny Hall and Ed­in­burgh Gar­dens de­vel­op­ments are con­tin­ui­ng to en­ter in­to mort­ gage agree­ments for le­gal ac­qui­si­tion of their prop­er­ties.

De­spite the fact that a rec­om­men­da­ tion was made that the HDC re­lo­cate 400 fam­i­lies from Welling­ton Gar­dens be­cause their homes were struc­tural­ly un­safe, res­i­dents said Monday they had no choice but to move to con­vert their Lease to Own and Rent to Own agree­ments to mort­gages, as they were fear­ful their homes could be tak­en away.

Iden­ti­fied as one of sev­er­al HDC set­ tle­ments con­struct­ed un­der the Patrick Man­ning ad­min­is­tra­tion with­out ad­her­ence to prop­er build­ ing codes, Welling­ton Gar­dens, in par­tic­u­lar, is still rid­dled with in­fra­struc­tur­al prob­lems such as loose ceil­ings, swollen walls and un­even floors.

In an in­ter­view Monday, res­i­dent An­ drew Habib said his home is slow­ly slip­ping away be­cause the pil­lars are not an­chored prop­er­ly.

“Nor­mal­ly, pil­lars are 12 by 12 but in my home it is 8 by 8. All the screws in the roof are rot­ ted away and the gyp­sum is falling apart,” Habib told the T&T Guardian.

“My home is mov­ing down­wards. It could fall. I have cracks in my wall, my floor­ing is com­ing apart. My bath­room is leak­ing in­to my bed­room and there is a hair­line crack on the main foun­da­tion beam. My stair­case in de­tach­ing from the house and the steel is pro­trud­ing.”

Hav­ing made nu­mer­ous com­plaints to the HDC, Habib said he was fed up but said he still in­tends to pur­chase the house be­cause he liked the lo­ca­tion. How­ev­er, he urged the HDC to con­struct two re­tain­ing walls at the front and the back of his home to pro­tect it from cav­ing down­ wards.

An­oth­er res­i­dent, Doolar­ie Lalchan, said she fi­nal­ly con­vert­ed from rent to own to a

mort­gage arrange­ment two months ago and al­ though she liked the com­fort of hav­ing her own home it was painful to know she was pay­ing such a high price for a house falling apart.

“When you add le­gal fees and oth­er charges, I will end up pay­ing about $550,000 for this house,” Lalchan said.

Her ceil­ing hung loose and the walls of the house were warped and swollen. Un­like oth­er HDC set­tle­ments, hous­es in Welling­ton Gar­dens were built with pre­fab­ri­cat­ed con­crete boards.

“It is like a card­board sheet sprayed with con­crete, so if you hit it hard enough you can punch a hole in it,” Lalchan ex­plained.

When she first moved in­to the house it was im­pos­si­ble to hang pic­tures by drilling the wall, she not­ed.

“I could have cried be­cause when we drilled we had a big hole in the wall,” Lalchan added.

Res­i­dent Gabriel Bis­soon mean­while said she spent al­most $350,000 to re­fur­bish her

house.

“We had to do over every­thing. The house was on the verge of col­lapse. We had to do over the walls, ceil­ing, elec­tri­cals, plumb­ing.

There was no drainage. Our home looks nice now but we spent al­most as much as the house to make it this way,” Bis­soon said.

At Ridge­wood Gar­dens, Gol­con­da, res­i­dents al­so had sim­i­lar com­plaints. Un­like Welling­ton Gar­dens, these homes were built with con­crete and priced at $375,000, about $75,000 cheap­er than those of Welling­ton Gar­dens. Res­ i­dents of Phase 1 com­plained of sim­i­lar de­fects, poor elec­tri­cals, loose floor tiles and poor drain­ age. In some of the hous­es built be­neath road lev­el, it was al­so not un­com­mon for sur­face wa­ter to gush in­side homes.

Nei­ther Hous­ing Min­is­ter Ed­mund Dil­ lon nor HDC man­ag­ing di­rec­tor Brent Lyons could be reached for com­ment Monday as calls to their cel­lu­lar phones went unan­swered.

- Trinidad Guardian

Sedition accused sent for St Ann’s evaluation TRINIDAD -- A man ac­cused of in­cit­ing acts of racial vi­o­lence via so­cial me­dia has been sent to the St Ann’s Hos­pi­tal for a psy­chi­atric eval­ u­at­ion.

Chief Mag­is­trate Maria Bus­by Ear­ le-Cad­dle or­dered that Jonathan An­tho­ny Mo­ hammed be sent to St Ann’s for two weeks af­ ter he ap­peared be­fore her in the Port-of-Spain Sev­enth Mag­is­trate’s Court Monday.

Mo­hammed, al­so known as John­ny, 22, was not called up­on to en­ter a plea as the charges were laid in­dictably. He was charged with sedi­tion and in­cit­ing the com­mis­sion of a ter­ror­ist act to cause the loss of life or se­vere bod­i­ly harm and or the en­dan­ger­ment of per­

sons of the African race for pur­pose of ad­vanc­ ing an ide­o­log­i­cal or re­li­gious cause con­trary to Sec­tion 14 of the An­ti-Ter­ror­ism Act. The act was al­leged to have been com­mit­ted on Face­ book on Oc­to­ber 28.

Af­ter read­ing the charges to Mo­ hammed, Bus­by Ear­le-Cad­dle was prompt­ed to ask him if he un­der­stood her, as he ini­tial­ly on­ly re­spond­ed through nods and oth­er body move­ ments, and on­ly ap­peared to re­spond to the mag­is­trate up­on prompt­ing from his at­tor­neys Ravi Ra­j­coomar and John Heath.

Mo­hammed told the mag­is­trate he had dif­fic­ ul­ty hear­ing her state­ments and again nod­ded when asked if she should speak loud­er

and again had to be prompt­ed by Heath to re­ spond.

Ra­j­coomar re­quest­ed the bail hear­ing be de­ferred so his client could be giv­en a men­tal as­sess­ment at St Ann’s. The pros­e­cu­tion did not ob­ject.

The Chief Mag­is­trate said she would place a note on his rec­om­men­da­tion to the hos­ pi­tal con­cern­ing his be­hav­iour in court stat­ing he was non-com­mu­nica­tive.

Ra­j­coomar said Mo­hammed had pre­ vi­ous­ly seen a pri­vate prac­ti­tion­er, Dr Claudius Sama­roo, for as­sess­ments in 2014 and 2017.

The mat­ter was ad­journed to No­vem­ ber 26. Pros­e­cu­tor Cpl Nurse told the court he

ex­pect­ed the Of­fice of the Di­rec­tor of Pub­lic Pros­ec­ u­tions to have their file ready for the case on that date. He said the state al­ready had a wit­ ness ready and present for the mat­ter.

Mo­hammed was ar­rest­ed last Wednes­day af­ter a video record­ing of Face­ book posts was shared on so­cial me­dia. One of the posts was a video which de­picts a ve­hi­cle in a mo­tor­cade sud­den­ly ex­plod­ing, while oth­er posts in the video ap­peared to be ver­bal calls for racial vi­o­lence. Mo­hammed was charged last Fri­day - Trinidad Guardian

Ad-B&W-Indra+Justin2_Ad-B&W-Indra+Justin2 12/21/17 4:29 PM Page 1

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feature

PAGE 17

Sweet Hands and Sweet Wine Nourish Catering and Winery Sometimes in life, you just got to have that “sweet hand” in the kitchen to produce dishes that fulfill and nourish your tummy and your soul. This is exactly the story of Jennifer Lochan, the CEO of Toronto based, Nourish Catering and Winery.

It was Lochan’s father that constantly reminded her, as she got older that she has a so-called sweet hand when it comes to cooking. This love of cooking started in the cultured and loving walls of her parent’s kitchen who were inspired by the cultural roots of Trinidad and Tobago.

“Growing up in a Caribbean cultured household has really paved the way for me and my endeavors today. I grew up in Scarborough most of my life and was raised by a well-rounded family. My father was passionate about the sweet sounds of Calypso music and made sure to educate my sister and me about how valuable it was to know our history. “

As a result, cooking always felt like you were on a tropical vacation, through the cold and bitter Canadian winters. The West Indian inspired tastes only grew as Lochan became fascinated with observing her mother cook in the kitchen while helping out and expanding her palate along the way of course.

As an adult, Lochan became a

naturally trained cook of Caribbean dishes and what goes well with a meal other than a great glass of wine. In July of 2017, the “Nourishing” office was formed. It was Lochan’s manifestation of the desire to start her own business that can become rooted and recognized in the food and wine industry in Canada.

Getting there was not as simple as it sounds, but things became aligned without Lochan even noticing at first. For twelve years she worked at the LCBO in Toronto and during this time Lochan was surrounded by wines and spirits from around the world that allowed her to expand her taste.

“Through numerous trainings such as ‘Product Knowledge Training’ and various tastings, I learned about many grape varieties and more so, my appreciation for pairing good food with great wine.”

Nourish wine is now noted as the first winery by a Caribbean-Canadian woman. The wines are inspired by African, Indian, Caribbean and Canadian fusions that blend together just like the carefully selected and unique grape varieties that make up the Nourish wine family. There are currently four variations of Nourish wines available, a Pinot Grigio, Rosé, Moscato and Pinot Noir. There is also the

special option of a Nourish Solo pack, which is a 200ml wine pouch designed for that special single serving. In addition to the wines, Lochan can carefully curate a custom catering menu to produce a wellrounded event offering delicious food and wine.

However, branching out in the wine and food industry comes with the usual challenges and some carefully learned life lessons for Lochan. “Starting my own business has not been easy. I have had some backlash from those closest to me. I`ve learned that not everyone will be happy for you, but thankfully, my father always taught me, `not to sweat the small stuff’, and so, I press on. I am grateful for all the feedback that I received, as it helps me better my craft so that I can share more of my passion with others. “

Despite this, Nourish continues to grow through all the recognition and positive feedback that Lochan receives from her customers. Nourish wines was recently featured as the official beverage partner for a 5-day play that took place in Toronto at the Canadian Stage, entitled A Little Black Lie by Crossfield House Productions wherein one of the acts, Lochan’s wine bottle even made an appearance.

Lochan is a very visual person and is always thinking of creative aspects

to link with her food and wine production. Even down to the brand Nourish and the concept of Nourishing, Lochan relates the name to the effects of good food and good wine on a person. Nourish wines are hard to miss, with an eyecatching and appealing logo, inspired by her Trinidadian roots a reflection of food, music, art, and culture represented visually through a splash of color. The use of the hibiscus flower on the bottles symbolizes the fleeting beauty of fame and personal growth, which Lochan will forever inscribe through her brand. The fruits and essence behind each flower also hints at the notes that each wine flavor exudes.

As Lochan continues on this exciting journey she can never forget how she started and the steps she has to take in order to successfully go after her dream.

With a growing team that encourages and supports Lochan, including customers she builds along the way, it won’t be odd to imagine her wines ending up on the shelves of the Wine Shop or the LCBO to complete this “nourishing” adventure.

For more information on Nourish Catering and Winery, visit Lochan’s Instagram @TheNourishing.

Written by Leanne Benn Toronto Caribbean Reporter

entertainment

PAGE 18

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Ready up Tobago!

2019 is your epic Carnival year! Here’s why….

ENT. PUBLICIST

As public outcry intensifies for Trinidad and Tobago’s government to diversify the economy and place a bit more emphasis on Tourism, and brand Tobago, one promoter is doing his part to ensure the world knows that Tobago is an amazing destination, worth visiting. “It’s time we wake up. It’s time we put in the work and that means all of us must do our part,” says Randy Glasgow; this as he explains he’s been meeting with officials of the Port Authority of Trinidad and Tobago, the Tobago House of Assembly and tourism officials across

Duffin Meadows Cemetery

A Soca star-studded lineup already secured, and celebrity hosts set to be announced soon, Randy Glasgow says all systems are in place to ensure that patrons of the TLS weekend want for nothing when they touch down in Tobago. “Additional flights and sea bridge sailings will be put in place to meet any demands,” he assures.

In the same breath he is urging fete lovers both overseas, and domestic, to book their flights or sailings and secure their accommodation packages early. “Everyone’s going to want to be a part of this weekend experience in Tobago. Nothing will compare,” said Glasgow.

Tickets for the TLS Weekend are available at Penny Savers Supermarkets in Tobago and at all NLCB Lotto Booths Nationwide. Package bookings are also available online at www.tlsweekend.com with a 24 hour hotline u and running as well, at : 868 774 5555.

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promoted by BWV Entertainment. On Saturday February 16th, patrons will be enticed by the white-themed, Dusk In White fete, which will precede Wet N’ Wild on the Sunday.

Glasgow, known for orchestrating major carnival events in Trinidad, says he felt the need to shift his focus a little, giving to Tobago, a product that could essentially work in marketing the island to prospective destination seekers. “Everyone knows Trinidad is the main focus of Carnival, however it’s important for us as promoters to also showcase Tobago’s beauty, its versatility and its charm. We’ve chosen the Canoe Bay Beach resort to host the festival and we’re in talks with major airlines like British Airways, Virgin America Airlines, LIAT and American Airlines, to incorporate the TLS weekend in their marketing and promotional efforts for destination seekers who yearn for a small taste of the Carnival experience, but generally prefer a relaxing vacation getaway,” said Glasgow.

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Already, the excitement surrounding Glasgow’s premium weekend- long event on the sister isle, is building. Big names on the entertainment circuit like Scorch’s Hypa Hoppa, Chinatown’s Chinee, DJ Ana, Kevon Xof Miami Events TT, Lord Hype, Ultra Simmo, Tweez, Lurbz, DJ Charlotte, Major Penny, Mighty Crush out of Tobago, KaoticInternational and Barbados’ Red Bull 3 Style champ, Deejay Puffy, among others, have been secured for the thrill-seekers weekend. Set for the Valentine’s Day weekend next year, (February 14th-February 17th), Tobago Loves Soca will feature four major events. On Thursday night, visitors will experience the Welcome Party and that will be followed by Soca Spree- a traditional Tobago event that’s

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PAGE 20

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Signs your battery needs to be replaced Ever dealt with a dead car battery in the middle of winter? Not much fun, is it? Drivers are far better off ensuring that their battery is in good shape before the thermometer dips. But how can you tell if your battery needs to be replaced? Here’s what to look out for.

INDICATORS OF AGE Car batteries typically last four to six years. One indication that yours is on its last legs is that the interior lights and/or headlights have gotten dimmer. Another good clue is that your vehicle doesn’t jump to life when you turn your key in the ignition: instead, your start up is slow, weak or inconsistent. If you’re experiencing these problems and your battery is old, it’s a good idea to get it checked by a licensed technician to see if it needs to be replaced. If your battery is still under four years old, it may just need to be recharged.

LOW VOLTAGE Recharge your battery when the voltage is lower than 12.4 volts. You can check the voltage using a voltmeter or multimeter. If you have a car battery recharger, you can recharge the battery yourself. Otherwise, get a professional to do it.

Provided this resolves the issue, your battery is likely still fine. However, should the problem return, check the voltage again. If the battery won’t hold a charge, it’s time to get it replaced. If the voltage is within range, it might be an issue with the alternator.

PROBLEMS WITH THE ALTERNATOR Note that a defective alternator has similar secondary effects as a weak battery. For this reason, it can sometimes be a good idea to consult a mechanic before replacing your battery. This way you’re sure to get a full and accurate diagnostic.

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Four ways to protect your windshield in winter Want to protect your windshield against the season’s hazards? Then be sure to adhere to these four easy guidelines.

1. DEFROST WINDOWS THE RIGHT WAY Sudden temperature changes weaken your windshield and make it more susceptible to cracking. For this reason, never pour hot water on your windshield during winter.

Instead, defrost using the vehicle’s heating system. If you want to speed up the process, consider purchasing a block heater. This device has the additional advantage of providing extra warmth to your vehicle — including the windshield — when it’s off.

3. DRIVE DEFENSIVELY The best way to protect your windshield when you’re be­ hind the wheel is to cruise at a safe distance from other vehicles. In winter especially, you don’t want to have rocks and other road debris flying towards your windshield.

4. GET CRACKS REPAIRED RIGHT AWAY If despite taking these precautions you get a crack or chip in your windshield, get it fixed as soon as possible. Cracks tend to expand, leading to costlier repairs.

2. UPGRADE YOUR WINDSHIELD WIPERS As your windshield is more fragile during winter, worn out or damaged windshield wipers can scratch the glass. Make sure you have high-quality wipers. Also, take care to clean them regularly and confirm that they’re properly placed.

If you’re purchasing new wipers, consider getting a model designed specifically for winter, made with material ice doesn’t stick to. Other­ wise, you can prevent ice buildup by putting a newspaper or a thin piece of cardboard between the wipers and the windshield.

Five winter braking safety tips Due to the snow, ice and black ice that can accumulate on frosty roads, braking during winter is nothing less than an art: master it by following these five steps.

2. DECREASE YOUR SPEED Drive at a speed that permits you to safely turn, change lanes, brake and react to hazards.

1. KEEP A SAFE DISTANCE When the road is snowy, slick or icy, your tires can’t grip as well and more time and distance is needed to stop.

Always stay a safe distance behind the vehicle in front of you when driving in such conditions.

3. AVOID SUDDEN ACTIONS Suddenly accelerating, braking or turning in winter can cause your vehicle to skid. When you’re approaching a stop sign or a turn, brake early and gently. Only speed up gradually.

4. ADJUST YOUR BRAKING METHOD If you don’t have an anti-lock braking system, you’ll need to press more gently on the brake pe­dal when the road is slippery. If your wheels begin to lock, regain con­trol by pumping your brakes (applying and releasing pressure on the pedal). Slamming your foot on the brake pedal will only ma­ke matters worse.

If you do have anti-lock brakes, simply keep your foot on the pe­dal until your vehicle has come to a stop, even if you feel vibrations. Only use the handbrake if necessary; this action can make matters worse by causing your car to spin.

5. LOOK AFTER YOUR BRAKES Get your brakes regularly inspected, maintained and — if need be — repaired by a mechanic.

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Wednesday, November 14, 2018 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Five unique holiday gift-wrapping ideas Wrapping Christmas presents often feels like a chore, but it doesn’t have to. With a little creativity, you can make gift-wrapping fun — not to mention cheaper and more eco-friendly. Here are a few gift-wrapping ideas to inspire you.

2. Go monochrome. For a sleek, stylish look, consider using shades of the same hue for wrapping paper, ribbon and gift bags.

Or, choose two or three colours to theme your gift-wrapping around (pick a combo other than red and green).

1. Use recycled materials as gift-wrap.

Wrap your gifts in recycled household items such as old newspapers and magazines, discarded maps, left over wallpaper and even gently worn clothes. With some extra effort, your presents will look just as beautiful and far more interesting than if they were wrapped in plain old store-bought paper.

3. Add natural materials as decorations.

Try wrapping presents in brown Kraft paper, tying them with string and decorating the packages with sprigs of evergreen or dried flowers. If you’re decking your house with holly or other seasonal greenery, save some of the foliage to use as embellishments for your wrapped gifts.

4. Try using furoshiki. Wrapping presents in patterned fabric, or furoshiki, is a Japanese practice that offers an esthetically pleasing and eco-friendly alternative to wrapping paper. Fabric can be reused year after year so you don’t need to buy, and throw away, copious amounts of wrapping paper each holiday seaons.

5. Have your kids design the paper. Have your kids decorate large pieces of thin, white paper to use for wrapping presents.

The personalized drawings by your children will make the presents that you gift to your family members that much more meaningful.

Four gift ideas for tech-lovers in 2018 Tech-lovers can be tough to buy for. With all the new and exciting products that come out every year, it’s difficult keep up with the latest trends. To help you out, here are four products that tech-lovers are buying en masse this year.

1. VIRTUAL REALITY HEADSETS Virtual reality headsets are the future of both gaming and media. The 360-degree viewing experience transports you to another universe. There’s no need to leave your living room to be courtside at Madison Square Garden watching a Knicks game, in the Egyptian desert taking a tour of the pyramids or even on a spaceship fighting cyborgs.

2. DRONES Drones are getting more popular and increasingly sophisticated every year. Nowadays, there are tons of different prototypes available and they come in a wide range of price points. Different models are made to appeal to different interests: choose bet­ ween a camera drone, a toy drone or a racing drone.

3. MOBILE WIFI HOTSPOTS Some people can’t survive without an internet connection. And many have a good enough excuse, as staying connected is vital to their job. Mobile WiFi hotspots are the perfect gift for these people. These palmsized gadgets provide you with internet access any­where in the world.

4. PORTABLE CHARGERS The more electronic gadgets a person uses, the more frequently they’re scrambling around anxiously to find a power source. Put a tech-lover’s mind at ease by giving them a portable charger capable of powering up their phone, tablet, headphones and other electronic devices.

seasonal

PAGE 29

Three great gifts for the DIY enthusiast Do you have someone on your Christmas shopping list who likes to spend their free time building things? If you’re stumped about what to get them, here are a few gift ideas that you may not have considered.

1. Digital tape measure: a modern version of a classic tool. A digital tape measure can convert measurements from fractions to decimals and inches to centimetres. It also gives precise readings up to one millimetre and will calculate the midpoint of whatever’s being measured. Some prototypes also come with a built-in level. A useful tool for many types of projects, this one is sure to quickly become indispensable.

ner for cracking that beer when the job is done.

3. Personalized hammer: almost everybody already owns a hammer, but most don’t have one with a personalized handle. Engrave a regular hammer with their name, a special word or an inside joke between the two of you right on the tool’s wooden handle. They’ll be so touched, they may decide to decorate their workshop with it rather than use it.

Whatever their passion project, the DIYer in your life is sure to appreciate one — or all — of these thoughtful and useful gifts.

2. Multi-tool: a must-have item for the DIYer who prefers to always keep their favourite tools on hand. More than a regular pocket­ knife, a multi-tool can hold as many as 18 tools. Components might include kni­ves, saws, pliers, cutters, awls and screwdrivers. Most even have a bottle ope-

Health and fitness gifts they’ll love Looking for the perfect gift for the fitness addict in your life? Or maybe you’re hoping to motivate a friend or family member to be more active? In either case, there’s a bounty of possibilities. Here are a few types of gifts that will encourage your loved ones to get moving.

STOCKING STUFFERS There are a number of small, inexpensive items that would make great stocking stuffers for family members or token gifts for your workout buddies. Some ideas include: • Workout socks • Energy bars • Health magazines • Safety lights (for running or biking) • Sunglasses UNDER THE TREE Impress them this year with new gear to add to their arsenal. A few ideas include: • Sports bags • Exercise mats • Running shoes • Active wear • Sports equipment To make the most impact, reflect on the person’s hobbies and pursuits. For instance, if your brother is a cycling enthusiast,

see if he needs a new helmet or seat. Or maybe your sister wants to take up tennis.

Get her a racket and tennis balls or even lessons. The point is to take each individual’s interests into consideration.

IF THEY ALREADY HAVE EVERYTHING If you’re unsure what the individual you’re shopping for needs, a great idea is to buy them a gift card for their favourite sporting goods store. Or, to really wow them, present them with a gym membership, a sports massage, several sessions with a personal trainer or an appointment with a nutritionist. These types of gifts are almost certain to be appreciated.

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Wednesday, November 14, 2018 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

OSTEOPOROSIS

Osteoporosis, a disease that causes bones to become brittle, affects no fewer than two million Canadians. To prevent bone loss and reduce your risk of fractures, Osteoporosis Canada recommends a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D. Here’s a list of foods to consume regularly.

FISH • Swordfish • Cod liver oil • Sardines • Canned pink salmon • Sockeye salmon • Canned tuna (in water) • Red snapper FRUITS AND VEGETABLES • Artichokes • Bok choy • Broccoli (cooked) • White mushrooms

• Kale (cooked) • Squash (butternut or acorn) • Figs (dried) • Kiwis • Oranges • Grapefruit (pink or red) • Snow peas (cooked) OTHERS • Roasted almonds • Beans (soy or white) • Hummus • Egg yolks • Soy or almond milk • Enriched margarine • Chickpeas • Tofu

Just like alcohol and recreational drugs, certain types of medication can affect your ability to drive. Before you take the wheel, make sure your mental state isn’t altered by any medication. Your safety and that of others on the road depend on it.

A diet high in calcium and vitamin D can stop bone loss related to osteoporosis.

On average, one out of every three women and one out of every five men experience an osteoporosis-related fracture at some point in their lives.

Source: osteoporosis.ca.

Seniors who made history Just because we get older doesn’t mean we can’t accomplish great things. Take the quiz for proof!

WHO AM I? 1. At age 81 I became the oldest actress to win the Oscar for Best Actress for my role in Driving Miss Daisy.

2. I played my last game in the NHL at age 52. At the time I was wearing a Hartford Whalers jersey, but I spent most of my career with the Detroit Red Wings.

3. I was the oldest Holocaust survivor for quite some time before I passed away at age 110. My passion for the piano inspired the Oscar-nominated documentary The Lady in Number 6.

HOW OLD WAS… 4. Alfred Hitchcock when his final film, Family Plot (1976), was released?

5. Keith Richards when the Rolling Stones released their album Blue & Lonesome (2016)?

6. Claude Monet when he painted his series depicting the canals of Venice (1908)?

PAGE 31

Medication and driving: what you need to know

A healthy diet for healthy bones

DAIRY PRODUCTS • Cheese • Cow or goat milk • Plain yogourt

mature living

ANSWERS 1. Jessica Tandy, who also starred in such productions as The Birds and the original version of A Streetcar Named Desire on Broadway.

2. Gordie Howe, who holds many NHL records, including most games played (1767).

3. Alice Herz-Sommer, who, at age 107, played for more than two hours every day.

4. 76.

5. 72. The album came out 16 days before the guitarist’s 73rd birthday.

6. 68.

Almost all types of medication, from muscle relaxants to antidepressants to simple decongestants, risk causing side effects. Whether what you’re taking was prescribed by a doctor or purchased over the counter, it’s crucial that you proceed with caution.

Confusion, blurry vision, sleepiness, memory loss, dizziness, difficulty concentrating — side effects affecting your vision, coordination or attentiveness are numerous and widespread.

Before you start taking any sort of medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist about the potential side effects.

BEWARE OF MIXING MEDS Certain medications don’t have any side effects when taken alone, but may cause some when combined with other drugs. Discuss your situation with your healthcare provider.

Be careful as well when changing dosages, as this can cause a whole other set of symptoms.

Finally, remember that alcohol, recreational drugs and medication don’t mix. Combining any of these before getting behind the wheel increases your risk of causing an accident tenfold.

Many medications have side effects that may affect your ability to drive. Always remain vigilant.

Four types of memory-boosting games Memories fade, and even more so as we get older. Fortunately, it’s possible to keep your brain sharp well into your golden years — and to have fun while you’re at it! Here are four suggestions for stimulating games that can help preserve your memory.

Various tabletop games can help improve and maintain your cognitive abilities and memory.

1. ASSOCIATION GAMES Remember those matching games, where you’d have to find pairs among a deck of cards placed face down on a table? They aren’t just for kids! You can find all sorts of versions made for adults,

with inspiring themes such as travel and nature.

2. OBSERVATION GAMES Look at an image for one minute, then ask someone to quiz you on what you saw. Spot the difference puzzles like the ones often found in newspapers are also good for your memory.

3. WORD GAMES Either played alone or against an opponent, crossword puzzles, Scrabble, Boggle and other word-based games are

good for stimulating your memory.

4. STRATEGY GAMES Most strategy-based games require that players remember their previous move or the previous move of their opponent. Card and tabletop games such as Battleship and Risk are great exercise for your brain.

There are all kinds of activities that can help preserve and strengthen your memory. Have fun!

PAGE 32

yoga

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Mental Health & Yoga TRISHA CURLING

trishacurling@carib101.com

YOGA SPECIALIST

Attitudes towards mental health issues are finally changing in our communities. The stigma attached is being released and we are now becoming more empathetic and beginning to understand that conditions like addiction, anxiety, and depression are not a sign of weakness. These and other issues like these may be a result of some sort of trauma that has occurred and needs to be looked after, just like any physical ailment would. They are real and affect more people than our

communities would like to admit.

Suffering in silence is no longer an option. Speaking out and allowing space for vulnerability will allow the healing process to begin. Yoga as a means of dealing with mental health issues is and should be part of the conversation.

Being that yoga is a practice that addresses our mind, spirit, and body, it is a wonderful place to start with and/or couple with therapy or treatment.

While practicing, there are many opportunities to be silent in both breath and postures.

Focusing on the breath and sitting in silence can help us to truly face the feelings we are experiencing. It also allows us to create some space between us and our challenges. The emphasis of focusing on our breath can allow us that “space” or “break” from our thoughts, especially if our thoughts are consumed with pain, hurt, and/or sadness. This

may be interpreted as avoidance, but it is, in fact, creating an ability to rewire our thought process in the brain. We are actively creating new pathways in which our nervous system will respond.

Our thoughts have a direct influence on our physical body, as deep as our cells. This influence can create our moods and everyday experience with ourselves and the world around us. The energy of focusing on our challenges breeds more challenges. So why not take that “break”? Why not shift our focus, even if it is just within the context of a 1-hour yoga class? These practices are the beginning of creating an understanding that we have the ability to feel like this more often.

The focus on the physical asana is also a powerful tool in which to utilize to shift our focus. As we move our bodies on our mats, we are in constant focus of “when to breath”, “where to place the feet or the hands”, “when to strengthen”, “when to soft-

en”. We are building both physical and mental strength. We are releasing endorphins into the body which helps to elevate our mood. As we get stronger in our practice, so does our resolve to heal and feel good, therefore we return to the mat more often. With an increased ability to do more physically, we build the confidence to handle more off the mat and in other areas of our lives. We may also begin to seek out other activities we enjoy that have nothing to do with yoga at all.

This too keeps the mood elevated.

Challenges do not disappear. We may also continue to face whatever mental illness we are dealing with, but with constant effort to practice our bouts of depression may become fewer and further between. Keep the dialogue open. Continue with vulnerability.

Continue to practice yoga.

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community

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, November 14, 2018

I’m Drinking Rum and RedBull!

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

HUMAN SPECIALIST Oh Yes! If you are a rum drinker, this article is definitely for you! The goal is to engage you with information researched from all over the world. If you have been following my articles for the last few weeks, I have been sharing information about my trip to Jamaica. Jamaica is known for its beautiful beaches, delicious Blue Mountain Coffee, amazing fruits and vegetables, and of course rum.

If you are familiar with Jamaican Rum, then you will recognize the name Appleton Estate. It is widely recognized and remains the flag bearer for Jamaican spirits. Appleton Estates has a unique history, with the first molasses used in the rum harvested in the 1600’s. Appleton Rums has been in production since 1749, and in total, the estate, including the sugar plantations, refinery and distillery spreads over 11,000 acres. It is found in the Nassau Terroir, which is a unique weather, soil and geographic area that produces the unique flavor of Appleton Rum that we have grown so fond of. 11,500 acres of sugar cane form the estate, is fermented, distilled, blended and aged, and has been uniquely coined ‘cane-

to-cup’, or ‘cane-to-cocktail’ in the trade.

Many of us do not understand that the rum business is a serious business. To call Appleton Estate Rum the best in the world means that it has very high standards that must be maintained, and who better to maintain these standards than the brilliant and talented Joy Spence. A professional in the Spirits world has historically belonged to men, but Joy Spence, the Master Blender at Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum, broke through that barrier and became the first female Master Blender.

I write and speak enthusiastically about finding and continuing in your passion, and Joy Spence is another formidable example of what happens when you put your mind to something and move forward without second thoughts. She fell in love with chemistry at the age of 13 and set her mind on becoming a scientist. Her passion for rum sparked during her chief chemist job at J. Wray and Nephew Limited; her job was to make sure that the chemical specifications of rum such as alcoholic strength were met. During her time there, she began to work closely with Owen Tulloch, the Master Blender at the time.

and it is defined as acting on or involving the use of the sense organs. She has enjoyed her career as a Master Blender and continues to encourage women to get involved in professions that may not necessarily be seen as feminine.

I learned a lot about rum during our experience at Appleton Estates, and I thought it would be helpful for our readers to have an understanding of the levels of rum:

“You must be a sensory expert and have a good understanding of the chemistry of the process. The development of a rum blend is a combination of art and science.” ~ Joy Spence, Master Blender Appleton Estates Jamaica

•

Joy often speaks about what it is like to be blessed with “organoleptic talent,” and an ideal way to savor rum. Organoleptic is an adjective,

•

• • • • •

•

Appleton Special Rum is golden, mild and smooth, and has a mixture of fruits, spices, ginger, nutmeg, and vanilla. This is the ultimate mixing rum.

Appleton White Rum is clearer and smoother because of a special process in production.

Appleton Estate Special Rum is a combination of different rums from assorted barrels of varying age and type.

The Appleton Estate VX includes a blend of 15 different select aged rums.

Appleton Estate Reserve is a blend of 20 select aged rums.

Appleton Estate Extra 12 yr. old is a masterpiece of oak aging. Rums are a minimum of 12 years old and are perfect for sipping.

Appleton Estate Master Blenders Legacy was created to celebrate 3 generations of blenders. It is a combination of 30 yr. old rum and was created to celebrate the art of rum making and drinking.

The Appleton Estate 21 yr. old was literally aged for 21 years. A limited number of this rum is bottled and released each year.

The advice I got from my grandma COLLEEN LINDBERG colleen@carib101.com

LIFESTYLE COACH

I have been blessed with some great influences in my life. From bosses to teachers, I have been able to have great minds consistently bless my life. However, there is some advice that still holds true in my mind as some great advice I got a few years ago from my Grandma.

We were out for lunch for one day when she said to me “Colleen, every person should live an independent life and then come together with that independence.

Don’t ever lose who you are for another person.” My grandparents were married a long time, my grandpa passed away in 1991 and my grandma has been on her own since. She is a feisty, independent woman.

She travels, she has friends, she sings in the church choir and does a ton of community

work. She always was like this though even when she was with my grandpa. She always mirrored an independent life even while being in a relationship. I feel that sometimes in my journey, I lost this sense of myself, who I was, as I was trying to be something for someone else. Ever felt this way?

During that same lunch, we got to talking about materialistic things like; shoes, purses, and clothing. When my parents moved my grandma into the home she is in now, they found closets filled with all of the above. My grandma had matching purses for everything. Although she gave up high heels a long time ago, she had an array of flat shoes that you could match up with any outfit. In this discussion we were having she said, “Colleen, wear what you want. Buy the things that light your soul up.

Add color into your life and always, always make sure that you have a purse for every occasion” I laugh just remembering this.

I am definitely a person that loves shoes, but from that day I knew my grandma and I would always have a different connection over self-expression. Wearing bright colors lifts the spirit, wearing things that help you express who you are will build confidence, owning your space will radiate your talent

into the world. Sometimes (I can attest to this) we have been told that we “should” be something that we are not. We should cover up our flare or dim our light. Here’s what I say to that… not any more. Be you, wear the shoes and most of all… buy that purse.

So, as we wrapped up this lunch my grandma gave me these parting words “Colleen, travel the world. Explore life and make sure to get into adventures. Step into the world and explore” Sometimes I find I get so caught up in the day to day that I miss the adventure happening right in front of my eyes. I feel that sometimes as a society we are so quick to say no instead of exploring the balance of new things with the common. Adventures can be found in every moment of life, but there are also some big adventures waiting for you to step into once you can let go of your fear. There is such a big world out there to explore, why not step in and see where it takes you?

So, I ask you today are you still honoring your independence? Are you owning your space and being the awesome you that you are? When was the last time you took an adventure and conquered that fear? I think it’s time to get started.

Wednesday, November 14, 2018 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

life

PAGE 35

Property division and common-law spouses The principle of unjust enrichment VALERIE DYE valerie@carib101.com

LEGAL SPECIALIST

In Canada married couples who are divorcing divide their assets through the process of equalization. This is a process whereby both parties calculate their net family property by determining the value of property owned at the date of separation (valuation date) fewer debts and liabilities and excluding property owned before marriage (note that the matrimonial home is not excluded even if owned before marriage). The party who has the higher net family property pays half of the difference to the other party. The aim of equalization is to place both parties on equal

footing so that they each leave the marriage with equal value in terms of assets.

Common-law spouses do not benefit from equalization. Unless a common-law spouse has legal ownership to a property there is not automatic claim to that property.

For instance, if property is owned jointly by common-law couples then obviously both couples are entitled to that property. On the other hand, if property is owned only by one spouse the spouse who does not have legal ownership to that home is not automatically entitled to a share in that home unless that person can prove a tangible contribution toward the acquisition of that property.

This may seem unfair to commonlaw couples who have lived together for years and who may have contributed to the joint family venture which resulted in an enrichment of the couple. It is for this reason that the courts have allowed common-law couples to rely on the principle of unjust enrichment in order to benefit from a share in family property. One spouse may claim that the

other spouse will become unjustly enriched unless property that has been acquired is shared with the other spouse.

To prove unjust enrichment the common-law spouse who is claiming, must prove that the other spouse has become unjustly enriched, that the claimant has suffered some detriment and that there is no justifiable reason for the enrichment. In the famous case of Kerr v Baranow (2011) 1 SCR 269, the Supreme Court of Canada stated that the claimant ‘must show that he or she has given a tangible benefit to the defendant that the defendant received and retained’.

The claimant must also have suffered some form of deprivation. This case also highlights the fact that the provision of domestic services may be seen as unjust enrichment since a common-law spouse has no duty to perform domestic services for the other. Such services are seen as a tangible benefit being conferred upon the family and may also be seen as a deprivation suffered by the spouse who performs those duties often without compensa-

tion.

The 2015 Ontario Superior Court Case of Gibson v Mead provides an example of domestic services being seen as an enrichment to one of the spouses. In that case, the common-law wife was a stay at home mother while the respondent obtained higher education and improved his employment income.

The court determined that the elements of an unjust enrichment existed and that the wife was entitled to a share of the assets based on her contribution.

In determining whether a commonlaw spouse is becoming unjustly enriched to the detriment of the other spouse the court needs to carry out an analytical exercise to determine the nature, value, and reasons for the contributions made. Thus, while common-law spouses are not automatically entitled to a share in the assets owned by the other spouse, they may still benefit from a share but only if they can prove that they made a contribution toward the acquisition of the assets.

Get out we don’t need you anymore KATHY McDONALD kathy@carib101.com

SCHOOL TRUSTEE

I was still basking in the afterglow of being re-elected by a huge margin as the Peel District School Board Trustee for Wards 3 and 4 in Brampton when my doorbell rang. I was deeply disturbed to find a senior who came to me in tears looking for somewhere to live.

It appears that after asking this elderly lady to quit her job up north to take care of her grandchildren she is no longer need. You see they are now 12 and 8 years old and her services are no longer required. If I was not advocating for our youth and their education I would be advocating for the elderly.

So, I am using this medium to educate seniors about their rights and elder abuse.

In Peel, we have an organization called Elder Help Peel. It’s located on 6 George Street. Elder Help Peel states on its website that it “Enriches the lives of Elderly Peel residents by offering information, education and supportive services in a welcoming and inclusive environment” At the heart of the organization is a stalwart of the black community Roman Aman. They can

be reached by telephone at 905-457-6055 Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4 pm.

This nonprofit organization is a true gem in the Brampton community.

While I was doing research on how to help this individual I came across an essay by my eldest son that I would like to share with the hope that we are reminded about the importance of family. I encourage all young people to remember all the sacrifices that your parents made for you when you were young. Please don’t turn your back on them when they are old.

“The family is the foundation of existence. It is the family that keeps an individual grounded and real. A strong family offers support and love through all stages of life. Without my family, my life would be incomplete. Although one receives schooling during the day, it’s family who prepares you for the journey of life along which I learned that no one can make you inferior without your consent (Eleanor Roosevelt). The family motto, black letters standing boldly against the yellow background, is posted by my pillow. Before I fall asleep at night, this is the last message that I read, encouraging me to be the best I can be despite life’s obstacles.

However, most of all, this saying has helped me develop a sense of self.……I was 2 years old, in the festival of Carabram, a multicultural festival consisting of pavilions, each showcasing a different culture. I have played many roles in this festival including decorat-

ing, participating in vocal and instrumental performances, planning, researching and touring. My participation in this festival has deepened my love of my Caribbean and African heritage as I learned about their contributions to Canadian society. I am comfortable in my skin. I also learned about how they overcame hardships. This has strengthened my resiliency…...

My dad has also played a large role in forming my identity. My father, a Trinidadian, never had the opportunity to learn the steel pan, his country’s national instrument, also the only acoustic instrument invented in the 20th century. As a result, he pushed me to learn the native instrument at an early age. I learned not only how to play the tenor and double guitar pans, but I also learned about the story of Winston Spree Simon, the man who hammered the inside of an oil drum left behind by the British after WW2, creating an instrument that when hit would vibrate at different pitches. When I was in middle school, I noticed some friends who were underperforming academically. Thus, I introduced them to the instrument and to participate in Carabram. They could better appreciate their culture and which resulted in an increased self-confidence which resulted in a positive self-image. After their first steel pan performance, hearing the cheers of the audience, they realized something. They had potential. They had a skill. …..

My family made me the role model I am today. In February 2013, a 9th grader during my first year of high school, I was disappointed that there were no mentions of Black History Month during February. The following year I founded the Black History Club. Our mandate would be to highlight the positive achievements of blacks in the community especially to a crowd of primarily white students. It would be important to expose these students, the next generation of leaders, to important roles blacks play in Canadian society. Next year in February I organized presentations, informative and engaging for the students. ….

Without my family, I would not have had the confidence to start these initiatives and pursue learning about my culture. I would not have been able to be an agent for change and help change the misconception of a people. If one is strong and confident one doesn’t have to feel inferior.”

So, there is the essay. I get goosebumps every time I come across it. It would pain me to think that this son could be part of a plot to throw me out on the streets if I needed help. I have seen the aforementioned senior struggle in the snow morning and evening with her grandchildren. It behooves me that her family is kicking her out now that her “usefulness” has expired.

Please journey with me as we strive to end elder abuse. Walk Good! Belle Marché

PAGE 36

life

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Know laws, know justice BRITTNEY CHANNER brittney@carib101.com

JUSTICE WARRIOR

Hello Readers! For this edition, I thought it would be fun to learn some exciting facts about some of Canada’s laws and what better way to begin then with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Some of you may remember me discussing the Charter very briefly a couple of entries back, however, today I decided to strictly focus on the Legal Rights portion of the law; specifically in section 7. The Charter of Rights and Freedoms are a set of laws containing the basic rules about how our country should operate. It sets out particular rights and freedoms that we as Canadians believe are necessary for a democratic and free society.

Some of the rights and freedoms that exist within it are the following: • • • • • •

The right to live and seek employment anywhere in Canada The right to a democratic environment Aboriginal people’s right Legal rights of persons accused of crimes The right to use either of Canada’s official languages Freedom of expression

There are much more rights and freedoms expressed within this document, but I decided just to name a few. However, focusing on the legal rights that are entrenched within this law is important to know should a situation. Any person in Canada whether it be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or a non-resident has the rights and freedoms contained within the Charter.

Nevertheless, the legal rights portion, which is found in section 7 of the Charter, is a constitutional provision that protects an individual’s autonomy and personal legal rights from actions of the Canadian government.

Contained in section 7, are three types of protection which consist of the right to life, right to liberty and security of person. In addition, sections 8-14 of the Charter contains more rights that protect us when we are dealing with the justice system. They make sure that those who are involved in legal proceedings of any

nature are treated fairly, especially pertaining to those who are charged with a legal offense. When breaking down the idea of life, liberty and the security of person, it stresses that governments respect and acknowledge the principles of justice in regards to criminal matters because a person who is accused in a serious criminal matter, faces a risk that, if found guilty, her or her liberty as promised in section 7 will be lost.

The right to liberty essentially protects an individual’s freedom to act without physical restraint which has now been reformed to include the power to make important choices.

The right to life as stipulated within the Charter is self-explanatory in the sense that it stands generally as the right to be alive. The right to life has been debated continuously over the years stemming from the debate that individuals should be able to make the choice if they wanted to relinquish the right to live. In 1993, the case of Rodriguez v British Columbia discussed the idea of self-assisted suicide and questioned whether it went against the Charter.

Sue Rodriguez brought forth the argument that the section 7 right to security of person or right to bodily control could trump the right to life and therefore justified assisted suicide. Her request was denied by the Supreme Court of Canada.

The right to security of the person consists of rights to privacy and of the body regarding its health and the psychological integrity. This right protects against government inflicted harm which includes stress, to the overall mental state of the individual. An example of this right used in law was the R v. Morgentaler case of 1988 which brought forth the issue of abortion to the limelight. Henry Morgentaler challenged the abortion law by stating that it breached women’s security of person by threatening their health. After the completion of this case, abortion was then legalized in Canada.

It is important that everyone know the contents of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms as it amplifies our awareness of its significance in our lives on a daily basis.

Familiarizing one’s self with the Charter is important because it is a part of the Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land, and because of this, governments must try to ensure that all new laws are consistent with the Charter. At this point, if you haven’t opened Google yet to read and educate yourself of the Carter, I urge all of you to begin; it is definitely worth the knowledge.

Wednesday, November 14, 2018 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

How to choose your laundry hamper An essential part of everyone’s laundry routine, today’s clothes hamper isn’t just functional — it’s decorative, too. If you’re in the market for a new laundry hamper, here’s some advice to help you make the right choice.

FUNCTION Obviously, the ideal size depends on your needs.

A hamper with a 50-litre volume usually works well for 3 people. Do you like to save time? A model with compartments will allow you to separate whites, darks and delicates as you go. Do you need to carry your hamper around? Choose one with handles or wheels.

FORM A wicker basket for a touch of Zen, a stainless-steel hamper for a modern touch, a classic wooden chest, a hamper made of coloured plastic to brighten up the room — there are so many options to choose from. What basket works best with your decor?

What to look for in your next toaster Toast, bagels or crumpets — what do you eat in the morning? Here are a few criteria to consider in order to find the toaster that best meets your needs: 1. Power. Of course, a 1,000-watt toaster will heat faster than a 750-watt one, but appliances with the same amount of power will offer different results depending on the positioning of the elements. Don’t just rely on the number of watts to judge the quality of the toaster.

2. Slots. If you love bagels or thick slices of toast, opt for a toaster with wide slots (more than 3 centimetres). If you’re a fan of country-style bread, choose a long slot toaster (24 centimetres or more). Do you have a large family? Consider a four-slice toaster, but keep in mind that it will take up more counter space.

3. Features. Most toasters come with a bagel setting to toast one side more than the other.

Some models also offer defrosting and reheating functions. These features are certainly practical, but they aren’t essential — you could simply adjust the heat level instead.

4. Crumb tray. Make sure the crumb tray can be removed and replaced easily and that it’s deep enough that you won’t have to empty it after every single use.

5. Material. Slots with metal sides can get very hot to the touch. Be careful!

home & garden

PAGE 37

How to prevent window condensation Are your windows often fogged up in the winter? In addition to blocking your view of the outdoors, condensation reduces the amount of sunlight that comes into your home. The result? You have to heat and light up your space more. Hello, epic energy bills! Furthermore, condensation can damage window frames and cause numerous problems such as rust and mould.

sible. Try to maintain your indoor humidity levels at around 35 to 50 per cent. Don’t forget that some habits, like hanging wet clothes in the house to dry, can contribute to higher humidity levels.

Finally, if your windows are old, the best solution is to replace them with new ones.

How can this be remedied? To reduce or eliminate your con­densation problems, make sure that the ventilation in your kitchen and bathroom is as efficient as possible.

You can also maximize air circulation by opening your blinds or curtains as often as pos-

How to deal with a bedbug infestation Unlike most pests, which hibernate during the winter, bedbugs are active all year long.

How do you detect them, and above all, how do you get rid of them effectively?

DETECTING BEDBUGS About the size of an apple seed, bedbugs are visible to the naked eye. They’re mostly active at night and typically avoid light. If you suspect you may have an infestation, check dark, tight spaces such as: • Behind peeling wallpaper • Decorative frames • Cracks in the walls and floors • Books • Mouldings • Window and door frames • Sheet hems • Electric outlets • Box springs and mattresses (inspect the seams) • Carpets and curtains • Headboards • Drawers • Suitcases • Clothing As well as checking for live bedbugs, you should also look for bodies, skins, eggs (whitish and the size of a pinhead, typically laid in clusters) and droppings (small black spots).

Bedbug bites look similar to mosquito bites. They’re usually grouped on parts of the body that are exposed during sleep.

GETTING RID OF BEDBUGS In case of a bedbug infestation, call a professional exterminator who uses safe, environmentally friendly products. It’s best not to try to get rid of these pests by yourself. Apart from being bad for human and pet health, improper use of pesticides can make bedbugs resistant to them, thereby worsening the situation. A pest management company is your best ally to resolve the situation once and for all.

PAGE 38

automotive

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, November 14, 2018

MITSUBISHI gets a second wind Mitsubishi is in the midst of a corporate restructuring and is expected to experience a transitional phase during the next few years. The star of the moment for the Japanese brand, now part of the Nissan-Reneault group, is the Outlander

PHEV (plug-in electric hybrid vehicle), a family-oriented SUV. The automaker took the original Outlander and added an electric motor as well as batteries to achieve a total of 200 HP and a 35-kilometre range in electric mode. The starting price tag for the Outlander PHEV is $43,000.

On the smaller side, the Eclipse Cross will try to make a place for itself in the crowded compact crossover market.

It aims to compete with well-established adversaries such as the Honda CR-V or Nissan Rogue.

Mitsubishi has plans to launch a series of electric SUVs with impressive ranges over the next few years.

Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

BMW takes luxury to the next level Of BMW’s current three-model lineup, two are brand new arrivals. Paricularly noteworthy is that the brand is bringing back its 8 Series, which was discontinued in the 1990s. Both the silhouette and the configuration of the Concept 8 Series, unveiled at the most recent Frankfurt Motor Show, point to a new era of luxury for BMW. The front air intake vents Concept X7 iPerformance and the roof are made from carbon fibre-reinforced

plastic to achieve a more lightweight construction and a lower centre of gravity. Slated for a spring 2019 release, the all-new 8 Series will likely be available with the same engine configurations as the 7 Series. A Gran Coupé edition will also follow in 2019.

Another model making headlines this fall is the X7 SUV, set to join the ranks of the Mercedes GLS and Audi Q7. BMW didn’t yet have a full-size SUV in its lineup and decided to solve the problem this year. The automaker is also renewing the different editions of its legendary 3 Series for fall 2018, including the super-sporty M3. The sedan will be the first to get a makeover, followed by the Touring edition in 2019. The 4 Series will undergo a similar treatment in 2020 with its coupe and convertible editions. BMW also announced that the next-generation 4 Series Gran Coupé will be electric in order to

Concept 8 Series

better compete with similar models on the market.

The next M3 will still have a turbocharged 6-cylinder engine under the hood, but engineers upgraded its power from 425 HP to nearly 500 in order to compete with the Mercedes-AMG C 63. The sixth-generation M3 is also expected to push the limits of technology with a power-enhancing, fuel-saving 48V battery.

fun

Wednesday, November 14, 2018 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

PAGE 39

WEEK OF NOVEMBER 11 TO NOVEMBER 17, 2018

ARIES

The luckiest signs this week: ARIES, TAURUS, GEMINI

You’ll be at the head of a group taking part in a highly memorable ac­ tivity. The outcome will reflect the effort you put into the project. And you’ll overcome a bit of shyness in the process.

TAURUS

You’ll have to adopt numerous responsibilities this week. You’ll suc­ ceed at effectively arranging your priorities. Additionally, people close to you will help you draw up a strategy for being more efficient.

PUZZLE NO. 669 ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 669

HOW TO PLAY :

GEMINI

Planning a return to school isn’t easy. There’s always the matter of deciding on the most favourable courses, ones that correspond to your values and life goals. Perseverance and support from those closest to you will be your keys to success.

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

CANCER

When faced with a choice that will have a big impact on your fu­ ture, you’ll have to weigh the pros and cons before deciding. You might also join a spiritual movement, which will al­low you to sig­ nificantly broaden your horizons.

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

LEO

You should thoroughly mull over even the smallest decisions you’re faced with, even if others are pressuring you to hurry along. Your intuition will guide you towards the correct an­ swers, and your patience will beget solutions.

PUZZLE NO. 932 55. Cherry-tree chopper 56. Shaped like an egg 57. Band instrument 58. Edge out 59. Sports sites 60. Tree abode 61. Pig’s place

DOWN

ACROSS

1. Heated 4. Throb 8. Lug 12. Confusion 13. Cloth-making device 14. Branding tool 15. Seasonal beverage

16. Meek one 17. Lack 18. Plummet 20. Leaks 22. Astern 24. Elegant 28. Tales 32. Marry in haste 33. Cost an arm and a ____

34. Fixes text 36. Legislative act 37. Merits 39. Countries 41. Garland 43. Youngster 44. Bank feature 46. Cast off 50. Pelt 53. Capacity

1. Round of applause 2. Stink 3. Fast-food order 4. Entirely 5. Went without power 6. Base-runner’s goal 7. Implant 8. Christmas trimming 9. Mineral source 10. Sock part 11. Outcome 19. Normal 21. Magic word 23. Celebration 25. One-person song 26. Reach 27. Some

evergreens 28. Large number 29. Sign of sorrow 30. Fairy-tale baddie 31. Preacher’s subject 35. Skin designs 38. Bellybuttons 40. ____ a boy!

42. A Great Lake 45. Earring’s place

47. Commands to Trigger 48. Way out 49. Disallow 50. Swine 51. Climbing plant 52. Beaver barrier 54. Assembled

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 932

VIRGO

You’ll need to spend plenty of time preparing for a negotiation so that it turns out favourably for you. You’ll succeed at finding miraculous solutions to all your financial problems or to obtaining your dream job.

LIBRA

After having carefully calculated what you’re able to spend, you’ll update your wardrobe with clothes from the best shops. You’ll go to extra trouble with your appearance so that you can fill more important roles at your place of work.

SCORPIO

It won’t always be easy to get out of the house. However, you might be able to do part of your job from the comfort of your own home and in doing so, double your efficiency. You’ll also undertake a big house­ hold cleaning.

SAGITTARIUS

Some confusion might arise between you and a family member. Set the record straight sooner rather than later. Drawing out the process is in no one’s best interest, and it’s essential that there’s no doubt as to who’s making the decisions. Other­wise, you won’t see the light at the end of the tunnel.

CAPRICORN

You’ll receive an unexpected promotion — perhaps following the depar­ ture of one of your co­workers. There will be nothing stopping you from sitting in for the boss while he or she is away on vacation. In any case, you’ll get a salary raise.

AQUARIUS

The conditions are ripe for quickly resolving a bunch of your concerns.

At your job, a sudden flash of inspiration will guide you in your projects and make it possible for you to accomplish your goals.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING

PISCES

Rejuvenate your body and mind adequately and you’ll manage to im­ prove your standing in all domains of your life. Inspiration will help you bring about the transformation necessary for your well­being and will make you more open to a deeper spirituality.

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COMMUNITY EVENT: The Holy Remnant Apostolic Church is hosting an Outreach Ministry launch event on Dec 22, 2018, where we will be feeding the city’s homeless.

‘A Giving Heart’ – Christmas Mission Help Us Help The Homeless Date: Dec 22, 2018 Time: 10am – 12pm Location: The Holy Remnant Apostolic Church 6665 Tomken Rd, Units 11-14, Mississauga, ON L5T 2C4 For more info 905-564-8910

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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

PAGE 42

real estate

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Real Estate Auction An alternative way to buy and sell homes JAY BRIJPAUL brijpaul@carib101.com

REAL ESTATE PRO Have you ever witnessed a live auction? The auctioneer starts the bidding and the highest bidder wins. Real estate auctions are popular in Australia and are gaining grounds in the US. It provides an alternate way of selling real estate. The traditional way of selling real estate is through closed bids where buyers do not know what other buyers will pay. In an auction, it is not a secret and every buyer knows what the other is offering.

The traditional way of “offer and acceptance” works well in a stable market but live or online auctions work best in a rising market.

Usually, the original offer price is set low to lure buyers. The bidding date is set for about two weeks in advance. Potential buyers can view the home during an allotted time. Buyers who are interested must register their interest before the auction and they are given a bidding ticket. The seller sets a “reserve” price and can turn down any offer below that price. Friends and families of the seller and the auctioneer are not allowed to make false offers to excite the crowd.

In the traditional way, the buyer purchases the home subject to the bank’s approval and inspection. In an action, however, there is no cooling off period. Once the hammer drops, you have purchased the home. If the roof caves in immediately after the purchase, it’s the buyer’s responsibility. Buyers must do their due diligence prior to the auction date by obtaining a pre-approval from the bank, complete a home inspection, and conduct a title search to ensure that there are no back taxes or liens on the property. The process can be expensive, especially if the buyer loses out on a few bids.

With a live auction, the buyer is required to pay an additional 10% for the auc-

tioneer’s fee. The process can be detrimental, especially in high ratio mortgages, because the fee is not considered part of the purchase price.

The buyer must have money set aside for both the auctioneer and the down payment. A hybrid version where the seller pays the auctioneer and the fee is built into the purchase price is more accommodating. Online versions of the auction are even more intriguing because you can shop online, shortlist the homes you would like to bid on and then place your bid. Buyers must be careful not to bid on more than one home at a time because there is no cooling off period.

Real estate auctions will work in Ontario because they are an open bid where a buyer knows exactly what the others are willing to pay. In the current system, that is a secret between the selling realtor and the seller. Buyers, with the fear of losing out, may offer much more than is required to buy the property. Sellers will have an option in the way they can sell their home. In the traditional way, a home can be under contract for many months with a real estate company. With bidding, it can be over in two

weeks with a few hours of disruption for showings.

For real estate auctions to be successful in Ontario, The Ontario Real Estate Association must revamp the current system, setting new rules and regulations. In the traditional way, pertinent information about an offer, such as the price and other conditions, cannot be disclosed unless all parties agree. With an auction, this process will be transparent, and homeowners feel that they can get the best deal for their home.

For the process to work, the seller should provide an inspection and an appraisal report prior to bidding. On closing, any liens or encumbrances, such as property taxes and mortgages, must be paid for by the seller. Buyers must be able to do their research quickly and without much cost.

Real estate transactions are complex and involve many aspects. A realtor’s job is to exercise the duty of caring for the client. With auctions, however, a question remains — will this care still be there?

PAGE 44

finance

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Using segregated investments to protect in market downturns FAZAAD BACCHUS fazaad@carib101.com

FINANCE SPECIALIST

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During a market downturn, a client can see great fluctuations in their investment portfolio. Last week alone we saw investment portfolios falling as much as 6 %. That’s sixty thousand dollars on a million dollar portfolio. What can a person do, that guarantees their principal if they were to pass away while the market is in a downturn?

Most people at some point in their life are doing some form of investing. Many have been utilizing RRSP’s for a long time now and more recently making use of the TFSA. These investments are more commonly invested in mutual funds purchased at your local bank branch. They provide no guarantee of principal or any guarantee of returns, so it’s possible to lose money if the markets are bad. Over time, and provided that you have a good financial advisor

you will most likely recover any losses as the markets generally move in an upward direction. But the operative word here is “over time”.

On the other hand, there is an investment product that runs on a similar basis to mutual funds, the underlying funds are the same, the performance is the same but there are some differences that might be valuable to certain clients. It has proven to be of significant value when there is a downturn in the market as the values are protected. This type of investment is called segregated funds and is only sold by life insurance companies. Depending on the contract that you have entered into, it can pay as much as 100% of your principal invested in the event of the death of the owner.

Let’s take the example of someone who has an RRSP in mutual funds, if the market falls like it did in 2008 and the owner dies, what is payable to the beneficiaries is only the market value. However, if that same person had a segregated fund investment and the market falls, the beneficiaries could receive the full amount invested (or even more based on another feature called resets), regardless of the fact that market value is significantly lower. A

segregated fund has protection built into it, where there is a guarantee of principal in the event of death or maturity of the owner.

A segregated fund is very valuable also in that it can pass to your named beneficiaries without having to go through a probate, saving you on probate costs. It also gives you the privacy of naming your beneficiary without everyone knowing what was given to them. So, guarantees, no probate fees, privacy in beneficiary, all sounds good to me. From where I stand it would appear that everyone should have segregated funds instead of mutual funds, but there are certain drawbacks that have to be considered.

The main reason that mutual funds may be bought over a segregated fund is due to the management fees. Because segregated funds have all these built-in guarantees, it will usually come at a cost. Therefore, if you bought a mutual fund and you bought a segregated fund, over time the mutual fund will outperform the segregated fund. However, in a downturn or where a client is now older and wants to retain his principal, then it might be more beneficial to consider a segregated fund.

Debt! Why the horrible reputation?

ANDREW STEWART andrew@carib101.com

FAMILY ADVISOR

On the one hand, everyone needs it at some point to finance their education, buying a home or starting a business. On the other, too much debt can be risky or even dangerous. Governments and companies have debt just like we do. And like us, governments and companies sometimes spend more than they earn, giving them a high debt-to-income ratio. Everyone at some point may need debt to pay for things coming up that they can’t afford based on their current cash flow. Going to school? You’ll need a loan (debt). Want to buy a car? That’s another loan and debt to be paid. In order to manage your own finances better, you have to know how the system works. Understanding things such as your credit score, the importance of on-time payments and credit utilization will help you make smart decisions and set yourself up for financial success. It’s okay to have debt — you just need to manage it intelligently.

What is a credit score?

These magical numbers can define our

financial status in the eyes of many. You probably could be thinking, why should I care? Well, I’m going to hopefully shed some light on why you should. Credit scores can range from 300-900, and the higher the score, the better. But what do those numbers even mean? In Canada, we have two credit reporting agencies-Equifax and TransUnion. They collect information on consumers like us on when we pay our bills and how long it takes us to pay our bills before recording this in our files. There are five main things that impact your overall score: • Your payment history • How much credit you have available • Length of credit history • Number of inquiries (to receive further credit) • Types of credit (loans, credit cards, etc.)

Did you know that the average credit score in Canada is 749? Are you above or below that?

Your credibility as someone who desires a loan relies on this all-important number.

Here are two easy steps you can do to improve your credit score.

1. If you haven’t been making consistent payments, start today! Set up pre-authorized payments on all of your bills, especially the ones that report to the bureau (mortgages, student loans, auto loans, and credit cards). These can

also include your utilities, cell phone, insurance, etc. Oh, and surprise, surprise – paying your bills on time accounts for 35% of your credit score.

2. Try to keep at least 25% of your credit limit available at all times. The amount of credit you have available is more of a factor than you might think. Often times, we run up balances our cards unaware of the damages it can cause.

So, what is credit utilization? Credit utilization is the ratio of your credit card balance to your credit limit as listed on your credit report. So, if you have a combined credit limit of $10,000, keep your total balance under $7,500.

Avoid incurring holiday shopping debt The holiday shopping rush will soon be on and paying with a credit card makes it is easy to be in the spirit of buying and giving without paying attention to how much money is being spent. If you can’t afford to pay off your credit card in November, you can’t afford to add a lot more to it in December. Generosity to friends or the perfect gift for the family are not good reasons to put yourself deeper into debt. If you must use a credit card to pay for Christmas, make sure you can pay it off by Easter.

The best way to stick to your budget and avoid impulse spending is to pay in cash. Pulling cash out of your wallet or purse and handing it to someone else is painful, and a reminder that the less you spend, the more you can keep.

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PAGE 46

sports

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Women’s T20 Series: View it for the first time ever!

KAYLA KARIM

kayla@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Cricket fans will have a chance to see all of the ICC Women’s World T20 2018 games for the first time ever this year. This is also the first time that the tournament will be separated from the men’s event after the International Cricket Council announced that the tournament will have live broadcasts in more than 200 countries around the world.

The ICC Women’s World Twenty20 is the sixth edition of the tournament, the first hosted by England in 2009. In the past, there were only eight participants in the first three Women’s T20, which expanded to ten teams

in 2014.

Guyana and St. Lucia will host 10 teams over a 16-day tournament that kicked off last week and will conclude with the final game on November 24th in Antigua. The participating teams are divided into two groups.

South Africa, Bangladesh, West Indies, England, and Sri Lanka are a part of Group A; and Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, and India are in Group B. The top two from each of the groups will head to the semi-finals.

Defending champions, West Indies had their first matchup Saturday and will have a five-day break until their next game against the South Africa Women in St. Lucia.

The West Indies, who are well known for playing entertaining and dominating cricket, will look to achieve no less than a championship this year, especially with the help of Stafanie Taylor. West Indies captain, Stafanie Taylor is one of the most experienced players in women’s cricket, a definite asset to the West Indies team with excellent batting and bowling stats having the highest batting average of 41.82.

Another player that is expected to be significantly impressive is Hayley Matthews. The vice-captain and right-handed opener were only 18 years old when the West Indies won the tournament in 2016. Now at 20 years old, she is ranked second in the T20 rankings, behind West Indies captain Stafanie Taylor.

England, who is another favorite in the tournament, start their contest in St. Lucia. England’s captain, Heather Knight will hope to lead the team to a victory, England’s first since 2009, with her batting skill. Knight scored two half-centuries in her last 10 T20 innings during her time in the Women’s Super Cricket League in England.

Australia is also going into the tournament as a favorite for this year having been ranked no. 1 by the International Cricket Council. The three-time winner Australia are a strong team in Group B with right-handed batter, Ashleigh Gardner leading the way.

Yet to win a World T20 Final, India will compete for the title in their opener against New Zealand. India, who is more

familiar with the longer format of a 50-over game, have not been very competitive in the World T20 failing to win over five attempts, their best result being a semi-final appearance in 2009 and 2010. However, 29 year old, captain Harmanpreet Kaur, is looking to lead this squad to a victorious turnout with her aggressive and poised style of play.

Underdogs Sri Lanka will need consistency to be successful in the 2018 World T20. Sri Lanka has only won more than one match once in 2016 and is yet to appear in the knockout rounds of the tournament. Trying to turn their record around, Sri Lanka’s captain Chamari Atapattu goes into the tournament considered to be one of the most destructive batsmen in the women’s game who knows how to perform on a big stage.

All matches will be played at either, Guyana National Stadium in Providence, Guyana or Darren Sammy Cricket Ground in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia followed by the finals at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua.

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Offer may not be combined with any other in-market offer, withto someeach exceptions. Additional terms and conditions extra. © 2017 Samsung Electronics Canada Inc. All rightsstart reserved. Samsung and Samsung Galaxy are registered Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., used with permission. The Freedom Mobile namecode and logos andredemption other words, titles, phrases, marks, logos,Pay icons, Before customers), or on your next bill following promo code redemption (for Pay After customers). Pay graphics are trademarks of, or are used under license by, Freedom Mobile Inc. After customers: you must complete the above eligibility requirements on the same day you activate your Eligible Plan to ensure the discount is received on your first/next bill. If you are not eligible for the promotion during any month, that monthly discount will be entirely forfeited and cannot be made up. If you qualify for the discount in the months following the ineligible month, you will receive the discount in those subsequent months. Movement between Eligible Plans will not result in the loss of the monthly discount. Your service will no longer be eligible for the discount if you: (a) Change 17_098_05_4GB40_HelloMobileAdmat_12_8x21_2_SF.indd your rate plan to a non-Eligible Plan, or (b) Port your number away from Freedom Mobile. Data allotments available for use only on the Freedom Mobile home network. 2017-09-06 All Freedom Mobile services are subject to our Terms of Service, Fair Usage Policy, Internet Traffic Management 1 3:23 PM Policy, and Privacy Policy located at freedommobile.ca. Applicable taxes extra. The Freedom Mobile name and logos and other words, titles, phrases, marks, logos, icons, graphics are trademarks of, or are used under license by, Freedom Mobile Inc. Chinguacousy 10671 Chinguacousy Rd 905-840-3388