West Indies take the title of
WORLD T20 CHAMPS
COLOMBO, SRI LANKA -- Marlon Samuels produced a brilliant allround performance to guide West Indies to a 36-run victory over Sri Lanka in the World Twenty20 cricket final yesterday. Samuels hit six sixes and three fours in his 78 off 56 balls to lift West Indies to 137-6 after they were reduced to 87-5. Samuels then bowled a tidy fourover spell of 1-15 as Sri Lanka were bowled out for 101 in 18.4 overs. Offspinner Sunil Narine grabbed three wickets for nine runs from 3.4 overs
and captain Darren Sammy picked up two wickets for six runs in two overs with Sri Lanka losing their way through the innings to the despair of 35,000 home fans at R Premadasa Stadium. Ajantha Mendis took four wickets for 12 runs for Sri Lanka and finished the tournament as the highest wicket-taker with 15 but still ended up on the losing side as West Indies won their first major title since clinching the Champions Trophy in 2004. “This moment we’re going to live forever,”
Sammy said. “The mission was to win the Twenty20 World Cup and the belief when we left the Caribbean has pulled us through. Today we were down and out but our never say die attitude came out.” Sri Lanka slipped up in their run chase when seamer Ravi Rampaul had Tillakaratne Dilshan clean bowled off his first delivery in the second over. Continued On Page 8
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TORONTO CARIBBEAN
First annual Caribbean Music & Entertainment Awards
Cindy Ramkumar Reporter TORONTO -- An evening created, designed and carried out to perfection would be my initial comments about the First Annual Caribbean Music and Entertainment Awards 2012. This was a very formal event, created with style and class by PenPro Entertainment and its committee. The best of the best converged at Mirage Banquet Hall on September 30th 2012. Upon entry, I must say Caribbean people know how to dress, some of the most classy
and sexy formal outfits were worn by the most gracious elegant women, regardless of age, size, creed or race. Women stole the night with their beautiful formal wear. Of course men were also formally attired, but women outclassed men with elegance and panache. Attendees enjoyed the cocktail hour, partaking in Caribbean delicacies, fruit sticks, fruit punches while enjoying steel pan music. The Caribbean Music & Entertainment Awards were created to acknowledge Ontarians who originate from the Caribbean islands, or has some sort of ancestry to the Caribbean. These Caribbean - Ontarians would have contributed towards the different genres of Caribbean Music and Entertainment. The awards were open to all Ontarians. All attendees present were highly entertained by the event hosts - SKF, Carrie Mullins, the Chutney Dancer - Abigail, Chutney Singer - Neil Surujedo, Dance Caribe Performance Dance to name a few.
Govt gives $2m to restore cathedral
Michelle, 19, from Mississauga works part time at Mcdonalds and is currently one of the top ten contestants for the upcoming Miss West Indian Canadian 2012 Beauty Pageant. This Guyanese beauty enjoys studying the art of Bollywood dancing since the age of 4 and is also a section leader for Callaloo and is looking forward to the 2013 Toronto Carnival season. You could be our next editions “TC Girl”! To enter, send your photo and a brief description to info@torontocaribbean.com
TRINIDAD (TG) -- The Government has donated $2 million to the Catholic Church for the restoration of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Port-of-Spain. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar presented the cheque to Port-of-Spain Archbishop Rev Joseph Harris yesterday at Mount St Benedict St John’s Road, St Augustine, as the monastery celebrated 100 years in T&T. Present at the event was National Security Minister Jack Warner whom Mount St Benedict Abbot Fr John Ferreira said was a regular worshipper there. He said it was unusual to see Warner sitting in the front pew since he always sits at the back. After a Jesus-centred service, the Prime Minister delivered an address to the congregation in which she announced to loud applause that the $2 million was for repairs for the cathedral which was in a state of disrepair. There is structural damage to the 159-year old building and 23 key areas have been identified for urgent repairs, including the roof and bell tower, she said. The cathedral is one of the oldest in the Englishspeaking Caribbean, which was raised to the dignity of a minor Basilica in 1857, and is a treasured historical landmark, she said. Persad-Bissessar called on the public at large to support fund-raising initiatives for the church’s repairs. “The People’s Partnership is prepared to do its part to support this most worthwhile endeavour and so I am pleased to present His Grace, the Archbishop of Port-of-Spain a cheque for $2 million towards the restoration of the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception,” she said. “Our objective is clear. We want to ensure that we continue to support the good
work that is being done by our fellow national stakeholders like the Roman Catholic Church and other religious groups and bodies.” Harris said restoring divinity to the sacred place of the cathedral will help citizens have more respect for each other and will certainly lead to a change in the behaviour of the nation. Speaking on the celebration of the monastery’s 100 years, the PM said it was a place where many of all faiths, including herself, have found peace, solace and renewal. “From my own experience, I can tell you that whenever one comes to Mount St Benedict, one feels embraced and emboldened by the true presence of divinity. It really feels like arriving at the stairway to heaven.” Persad-Bissessar said when she was appointed attorney general in 1995, it was a troubling time for her and she went to Mount St Benedict and found peace. “The various religious communities, especially the Catholic Church, are friends of society, social partners and strong moral guides for the State. The People’s Partnership Government recognises and values the presence of the church in our landscape of plurality and governance,” she said.
Armed bandits rob and injure Nigg couple GUYANA (GC) -- Sleuths are hunting for four bandits, who shot and injured a couple during an armed robbery on Saturday night at Nigg Squatting Area, Corentyne, Berbice. Police reported that at about 23:00 hrs four men armed with two firearms and two knives broke through the door and entered the home of Samnarine Samaroo, 47, and his wife, Tangama Madramootoo, 52, at Nigg Squatting Area. The perpetrators took away an un-
disclosed sum of cash and a quantity of jewellery and escaped. During the robbery Samnarine Samaroo was shot and injured to his left thigh and Tangama Madramootoo was assaulted about her body. Samaroo has been admitted to the GPHC and Madramootoo to the New Amsterdam Hospital. The stock of a shotgun was recovered at the scene by the police. Investigations are in progress.
TORONTO CARIBBEAN
Test-tube potatoes - Christiana Potato Growers use technology to increase local production JAMAICA (JO) -- In its heyday the 53-year-old Christiana Potato Growers co-operative catered to the needs of 17,000 small farmers. Today, the numbers have dwindled to about 4,000 “serious members” but the Co-op’s leadership says the need to affordably increase production of its bread and butter crop Irish potato, as well as other produce, is as urgent as it has ever been. Alvin Murray, General Manager of the Co-operative and a native of Christiana, told the Jamaica Observer Central that the co-op recognised that selfsufficiency in the production of potato seeds was critical for progress. Weaning themselves off imported seeds would not only cut costs, but give farmers more control over how and when crops are planted, he said. “March is about the end of the potato season and then you won’t see seeds again until October and those seeds are not ready for planting until December. (However) we would be planting additional crops in August to September if we can produce our own seeds,” said Murray. “We are utilising in this country one million kilogrammes of potatoes every month for the fresh market alone. If you put the processed market to it, it is more than
twice the amount. That’s a lot of foreign exchange used to import potatoes. We spend over J$250 million importing the seeds every year. We know that we need to have our own production. Unless we are able to influence production material we are really not going anywhere,” he added. Modern methods involving a leap from age-old practices to test-tube technology was obviously the way to go and to this end, the group set out to establish the Christiana Potato Growers Tissue Culture Lab, accommodated in an old fertiliser store room at the co-op’s headquarters on Main Street, Christiana in North East Manchester. Murray said a 2006 estimate of the cost of setting up the facility was $10 million.
“The Ministry (Agriculture and Fisheries)...didn’t have $10 million. The Ministry gave us $2.5 million and say go and show us what you are doing, prove that it can work first before we give you anymore,” he said. Against the odds, the coop completed the lab and soon discovered the beneficial multiplication effect of plant tissue culture. As explained on the coop’s website: “As (the) plantlet [small cutting or offshoot] grows, new cuttings are repeatedly taken to increase the number of plantlets in culture. This number increases very quickly; for instance, a single potato plantlet can produce five plantlets in three weeks. Each of these five then produce five more in the next three weeks and so on....” To better meet the needs of the farmers the plants are taken from the test tube to a “hardening off” facility adjoining the lab so that the farmers can be given the planting material in seed form or sprouts. The plants grown in the lab are eventually taken to Devon, another area of North East Manchester, to be grown in differing quantities in seven green houses covering 55,000 square feet and which are run by the co-op. Continued On Page 5
Expert says more to be done in emergency care TRINIDAD (TG) -- Although emergency medical care has improved locally in the past six years, the systems are still not what they should be. This was the view of Dr Ian Sammy, UWI lecturer and emergency department consultant at the Eric Williams Medical Science Complex at Mt Hope. Sammy was speaking at the T&T Medical Association’s workshop, Expediting Emergency Care for Acute Myocardial Infarction, at the Hyatt Regency, Port-ofSpain, yesterday. Acute myocardial infarction is acute heart attack which is the cause of death for approximately 16 per cent of the population according to Sammy. He said while awareness among health care providers had increased, there remained various difficulties particularly when dealing with
heart attack patients. “The challenge is that all treatment for acute heart attacks are time-dependent. For it to be effective it must happen within 30 minutes and that is very difficult to achieve and that is where we have our greatest problems,” he said. “Even 15 minutes can be too long but it’s hard to do because it takes a lot of resources and those resources are already limited.” Sammy said smaller facilities such as community health centres usually do not have the resources to treat heart attack patients. “We have to develop to a point whereby transport from those rural areas to the hospital can happen quickly. “The average timing for ambulance service in T&T is much better than it used to be, but even that
average isn’t good enough when you’re talking about a heart attack.” The workshop was geared towards promoting discussion among emergency caregivers, physicians, nurses and other emergency room personnel on ways to implement best international practices and develop strategies for management and evaluation. Some of the obstacles to effective emergency care systems locally include overcrowding of patients, understaffed departments, inadequate equipment and training in some emergency rooms, said Sammy. He also cited poor, incomplete data collection and lack of computerisation as other obstacles.
EMA probes oil threat at Wasa treatment plant TRINIDAD (TG) -- Three days after oil was dangerously close to entering the Water and Sewerage Authority’s (WASA) water supply at its Caroni Water Treatment Plant, WASA’s corporate communications manager Daniel Plenty said in a telephone interview that the water was once again safe for consumption. Plenty said WASA’s water supply had not been contaminated. Oil booms were used, he said, to collect the oil and prevent it from spreading further. The oil appeared in the Caroni River on Tuesday and resulted in the Caroni plant being closed for four hours. Plenty could not identify the type of oil nor the quantity. He said the EMA was immediately called to investigate when it was detected.
In a press release sent to the media on Wednesday, the EMA said the substance came from a business that repairs heavy equipment. The authority then began the containment and remediation of the area. Plenty said: “Our workers have cleaned up the intake area…Water is safe to consume. From the time we restarted the plant, everything is okay now.” Areas in both northern and southern Trinidad were affected by the water disruption. In the release, the EMA’s managing director/CEO Dr Joth Singh said the issue was a matter of serious concern, as the oil had affected the potable water supply. However, he said, “All appropriate and necessary measures will be taken to ensure prevention of
any and all possible adverse impacts on human health and the environment. “The EMA will continue to closely monitor the remediation efforts and a more comprehensive investigation into the matter is currently being conducted.” Nicole Bachan, the EMA’s corporate communications officer, said in a telephone interview with the T&T Guardian on Friday, the majority of the substance has been cleaned up. However, she said for legal reasons, she was unable to give the name of the company responsible. Nor could she say if the company would be fined. Bachan said the EMA is continuing its investigations.
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‘With cheap hydro- power, manufacturing and PNM press to retake Volney’s St Joseph in General processing will be increased’- President Ramotar Elections GUYANA (GC) -- President Donald Ramotar has said that with the coming on stream of hydro-electricity, the manufacturing and processing industries in the country will be given a boost. He made this statement as he addressed thousands of Guyanese at the opening of Essequibo Nite, Agricultural and Trade Fair, at the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground. The President who was accompanied by First Lady, Mrs. Deolatchmee Ramotar and Minister within the Agriculture Ministry, Mr. Alli Baksh, said Guyanese must prepare for a new economy because the cost of electricity will fall. The Head of State said his government plans to make Guyana a more developed country in the Caribbean. Alluding to October 5 which marked 20 years since democracy was returned under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government, he said Guyana truly has freedom, adding that it must be protected at all costs. According to the President, gone are the days when persons were jailed for having a loaf of bread or a tin of sardine. Mr. Ramotar called for the political freedom that was brought back by the PPP/C government 20 years ago to be guarded and protected. Meanwhile, Baksh, in his address to the large gathering, recalled that Essequibo Nite was first started by the late Minister of Agriculture, Satyawdeo Sawh, some 10 years ago, under the theme “Made in Guy-
ana; Grown in Guyana”. Baksh said this year the activity has grown much bigger, and has attracted more than 100 booths on the ground, with exhibits showcasing Guyana’s products and produce. The minister also congratulated all farmers and thanked them for producing and keeping the agriculture industry alive. He said this year the theme of Guyana Nite has changed to ‘Agriculture and Trade Fair.’ Chairman of Region 2 (Pomeroon/ Essequibo), Mr. Parmanand Persaud, who welcomed the large crowd to Essequibo Nite said the activity has come a far way since it first started ten years ago. He said Essequibians have a lot to celebrate and thanked farmers and manufacturers from across Guyana for participating in Essequibo Nite. The President and entourage, inspected exhibits and interacted with the crowd. Large groups also flocked the President for handshakes and to take photos with him and the First Lady. Some of the companies/ ministries taking part in Essequibio Nite included Ministry of Finance; Republic Bank, Guyana Geology and Mines; Bacchus Market, COURTS Guyana Inc, Barama, Demerara Distillers Ltd; Banks DIH, Carib Beer; Guyana Forestry Commission, Sara Gold, Ric’s Jewel; Eryu, E-ZE Jet, Alllea Travel, Big Bird Fish Complex and several craft and furniture businesses.
TRINIDAD (TG) -- The PNM’s St Joseph constituency has started mobilising to press for UNC MP Herbert Volney to resign and for the party to retake the seat the next general elections. This was confirmed by PNM’s coordinator for the unit, Robert Le Hunte, following a recent constituency conference where feature speaker, PNM Senate leader Penelope Beckles-Robinson told members: “Volney must step down as MP.” Beckles said “an unsatisfactory state of affairs” has befallen the constituency with Volney’s removal as Minister of Justice on September 20. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar fired Volney for misrepresenting information to the Cabinet on the controversial Section 34 issue. Volney last week said he is no longer under the People’s Partnership (PP) whip and is now an independent UNC MP. He said he had no plans to resign and constituents are supportive of him becoming an independent MP. At the PNM’s St Joseph conference, however, Beckles said it was the PP, who on the campaign trail, made a commitment to put a mechanism in place to recall any MP who, for one reason or the other, failed to perform. She said the constituency is now being represented by someone whom the Prime Minister deemed unfit to hold a Cabinet post and was subsequently dismissed. Beckles is now contesting the lady vice chairmanship in the upcoming PNM
party elections. She said St Joseph did not deserve to be represented by someone who misled the Prime Minister, the DPP, the Cabinet and the people on the Section 34 issue. Conference participants passed a resolution calling on Volney to do the honourable thing and resign his seat in the House of Representatives forthwith. Continued On Page 5
TORONTO CARIBBEAN
Off-duty police rank shoots escaping prisoner GUYANA (GC) -- A prisoner who had been placed before the court in connection with a series of armed robberies and piracy charges was wounded by gunfire from police on Saturday morning after he attempted to flee custody whilst being a patient at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation(GPHC). Camp Street Prison inmate, Terry Joseph was housed on the second floor of one of the wards; but sometime after 2am, Joseph, also known as “Spanish Man,” jumped through a window while the prison guard’s attention was diverted, and made his way out of the hospital compound. He reportedly flagged down a taxi in the area, only to discover that its driver was one of the CID ranks who had arrested him. Reports are that when Joseph then attempted to flee, the rank shot him in the right
thigh. Joseph, of Lot 6 Farm Squatting Area, East Bank Demerara, was the fourth person to be charged in the armed robbery and piracy investigation, and had appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry on September 28th on an indictable charge of robbery-under-arms. Particulars of the offence said that, on September 18, in Pomeroon, within the territorial sea of Guyana, armed with a handgun and in the company of others, Joseph had robbed Shameer Saffie of one cell phone and a wrist watch, worth a total of $14,000. Police Inspector Stephen Telford, prosecuting, had objected to bail and had asked that the case be transferred to the Charity Magistrate’s Court on the Essequibo Coast. At the prosecutor’s request, Joseph had been remanded to prison until October 15.
PNM press to retake Volney’s St Joseph Continued From Page 4 -- The resolution stated that Volney’s actions “had caused an erosion of confidence in his ability to represent the area in the Parliament.” PNM deputy leader Joan Yuille-Williams told the audience that PNM leader Dr Keith Rowley had called on the Prime Minister to call elections. She therefore advised St Joseph PNMites that they must be ready and be on an election footing especially as this turn of events with Volney may well signal the return of the St Joseph constituency to the PNM. Members pledged to work to make this a reality. Speaking to the T&T Guardian yesterday, Le Hunte said the unit was dormant since PNM lost the seat to Volney in 2010 general elections but was reactivated a month ago. “We now have an MP whom the Prime Minister basically said did not give the correct
facts so the word ‘honourable’ you use for an MP cannot be ascribed to him. The honourable thing then is to remove himself from the seat.” Saying he supported Beckles, Le Hunte added: “Our next step is to meet the (PNM) leadership about St Joseph to get the full backing of the PNM in our call for Volney to resign. Since our leader called on the PP to call elections, our constituency is now on election footing as far as we’re concerned. We work to suit.” Asked if he would resign his seat, Volney has said: “ That’s not something I’m contemplating. The PNM might want that to be able to test the political waters. But it isn’t happening, not on my watch.” On possible repercussions to the coalition government from his going independent, Volney said he was confident the PP would go its full term and would be returned to office in the next general elections.
Test-tube potatoes Continued From Page 3 -- To increase efficiency, Murray said the group needs 39 more acres in Devon to grow Irish potato seeds alone. The lab, meanwhile, is set to be expanded by three times its size with solar panels and LED (light emitting diodes) lights through the assistance of the United Nation’s Common Fund for Commodities and the European Union. While he believes that protected agriculture is the way to go, Murray says open field farmers also stand to benefit from tissue culture. “They (open field farmers) are now using hybrids, they are using better varieties (of potatoes) and even some of the green house varieties,” he said. Other than Irish potato, the co-op also uses test tube technology to develop sweet potato and ginger, as well as varieties
of yam, strawberries, anthurium and carnation. Exploring different crops will ensure that farmers always have a crop going, said Murray. It also allows them to spread their risk. Graduates and students from educational institutions such as the College of Agriculture Science and Education (CASE) and representatives of local and overseas partner agencies are working with the co-operative in the initiative as a means of retooling agriculture. The co-operative also serves farmers in Kellits in Clarendon, New Market in St Elizabeth, Runaway Bay in St Ann and Alligator Pond in south Manchester. Farmers in Guys Hill, St Catherine, have also expressed an interest in getting planting material from the Christiana-based co-op, Murray said.
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Yoga for the Heart and Lungs
Geeta Maraj Contributor We are now accustomed to hearing the word ‘yoga’ mentioned on a daily basis. In fact, yoga has become a part of our regular vocabulary. And rightfully so, as it stems from ancient Eastern teachings, (originated in India around 3300 BCE), and remains unchallenged for it’s multifarious benefits to the mind, the body and the spirit. One yogic breath exercise, which can help to prevent heart and lung issues is known as kapalabhati or the rapid breath. Though this type of breathing exercise may sound bizarre to the ear, its benefit to both the heart and lungs is unmatched. Kapalabhati is a combination of two Sanskrit words: ‘kapala’ meaning ‘skull,’ and ‘bhati’ meaning ‘shine’. This ‘skull shine’ breathing exercise is basically done to cleanse the lungs and create better concentration. In conjunction, it gives the heart a massage, while also strengthening the lungs. To perform this type of yogic breath, you have to make a sniffing sound loudly through your nostrils, as if you are trying to blow your nose without a tissue. If
you are to imagine that your body is rigid, and that there is a fly on the tip of your nose which you need to get rid of, and all you can do is sniff as loudly as possible in hope that it flies off - then you have figured out how to perform this beneficial breath. While the rapid breath bears a similarity to blowing your nose, the exhalation is forceful. It is through this vigorous exhalation that the heart gets a massage as the diaphragm is pushing against the lungs and the heart. The diaphragm is a sheet like muscle, it separates the heart and lungs from the abdominal cavity and is paramount to respiration. W h e n the diaphragm contracts, air is drawn into the lungs. Similarly when the diaphragm expands, air is pushed out of the lungs. Our ability to contract and expand our diaphragm with
force is what helps to keep our heart and lungs strong -preventing heart disease and respiratory issues. To perform kapalabhati you must sit upright, keeping the spine straight. Once this is done, your firstly exhale till your abdominal muscles are fully contracted and you have pushed all the stale air out of your lungs. After which you inhale deeply and breathe out again. Your next inhale should be an in breath to fill your lungs to three quarter capacity. This breath is then exhaled forcefully through your nostrils as if you are sniffing loudly. Once this is done, you breathe in a regular full breath again. This is called a single kapalabhati exhalation. The point when
you exhale forcefully,you should feel your entire abdominal area instantly contract. Once you become comfortable with this type of breath, you can begin to do double exhalations or double sniffs – meaning you exhale twice before you inhale a regular breath again. With time you can build up to triple exhalations per in breath, and eventually you can exhale repeatedly for up to 20 or 30 times before you inhale a regular breath again. When you are doing this breath for extended repetitions, do not fear that your lungs will run out of air to exhale. Once you forcefully push air out of your lungs, though passive recoil, air equally enters your lungs without you purposely breathing in. Therefore, you are able to repeatedly exhale forcefully without running out of breath to exhale. This type of breath can be practiced at any time, but is best performed in the early morning as a way to sharpen your concentration and focus. If you have suffered a heart attack, or have any heart ailment, or respiratory issues, you should only practice this breath in single exhalations. While this type of breathing can benefit persons with the preceeding ailments, it is best to seek medical advice prior to practicing. More so, it is best to practice this breathing exercise under the supervision of a qualified yoga therapist. From the young to the very aged, this breath by far is one which stands the test of time in sharpening our focus, while massaging and strengthening our heart and lungs.
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World T20 crown - champions Andre Russell (0). But Samuels hit five of his sixes off expensive fast bowler Lasith Malinga (0-54 in four overs) before he was dismissed in the 17th over. Seamers Mathews (1-11) and Kulasekara (0-22) bowled superbly upfront and never allowed Gayle to let loose. Mathews bowled a wicket-maiden first over when he had Johnson Charles caught at mid-off and Gayle was well tied down by Kulasekara at the other end before Mendis removed the dangerman. Samuels also got a life on 20 when Kulasekara was unable to hold a difficult
catch but Sri Lanka fielded well and conceded only one boundary in the first 11 overs. Samuels finally gave West Indies some hope in the 13th over by hoisting Malinga for three big sixes in one over and hitting two more off the paceman’s fourth over. Samuels added 59 runs for the third wicket with Dwayne Bravo off 49 balls before Mendis had three wickets in four balls, as West Indies stumbled on 87 for five. Captain Sammy lifted the scoring by remaining unbeaten on 26 off 15 balls, scoring 15 in the last over off Kulasekara.
Lloyd email a morale booster, says skipper Continued From Page 1 -- The experienced batting pair of Jayawardene (33) and Kumar Sangakkara (22) found it difficult to pace their innings on a slow wicket as Sammy applied pressure through a four-pronged spin attack. With the required run rate steadily increasing, Sangakkara tried to up the scoring but holed out in the deep in the tenth over and Angelo Mathews (1) followed him in the next over when he, too, tried an extravagant scoop and was bowled by Sammy. West Indies turned the match with four wickets in the space of nine runs to reduce the home team from 60 for three wickets to 69 for seven. The slide began with Jayawardene, who was twice dropped on two and 27, but offered a tame catch to Sammy at point while Jeevan Mendis and Thisara Per-
era were run out while attempting needless runs. Sammy then had Lahiru Thirimanne (4) caught in the deep before Nuwan Kulasekara (26 off 13 balls) hit back briefly by smashing Rampaul for three fours and a six in one over until he fell to Narine. Earlier, Samuels ensured West Indies had at least a modest total to defend with some powerful hitting after Sammy won the toss and elected to bat. Mendis shut out West Indies’ hopes of putting up a big total when he had dangerman Chris Gayle trapped leg before wicket for just three after the lefthander struggled for 16 balls to get going. The spinner polished off the top order with the wickets of Dwayne Bravo (19), Kieron Pollard (2) and
West Indies captain Darren Sammy revealed Saturday that legendary former West Indies captain Clive Lloyd had written to the team pledging his support for yesterday’s World Twenty20 final against Sri Lanka. Lloyd, now 68, shot to prominence after leading West Indies to back-to-back 50over World Cup triumphs in 1975 and 1979. Those victories remain the Caribbean side’s last success in a World Cup and Sammy said his support had been important to his unit. “This morning I got an email from Mr Lloyd saying he was very proud of what the team is doing and that the Caribbean people are very happy,” Sammy told reporters. “[He told us] just to go out and win. He also reminded me that the only time success comes before work is in the dictionary and urged us to continue in the way we have
been doing. “Many people are rooting for us this time. The words from a legend like Mr Lloyd are the biggest motivation for the guys who will go out and play in the final.” The Caribbean side successfully chased won their second ICC title in eight years after beating Sri Lanka by 36 runs in yesterday’s final. The last win was against England in the 2004 Champions Trophy final at the Oval. West Indies reached yesterday’s final by pummelling Australia by 74 runs in Friday’s second semifinal, with talismanic opener Chris Gayle batting through the innings for an unbeaten 75. The knock was his third half-century of the tournament and took him past 200 runs for the tournament as the leading Windies batsman. (CMC)
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Caribbean Pot: Caribbean Coconut Shrimp Bisque
Chris De La Rosa Contributor As we prepare for the upcoming winter season and the nights are getting colder, I thought I’d share a tasty soup recipe with you all. Ingredients 1 pound shrimp (see note below) 3 cups water 5 tablespoons butter (divided) 2 scallions (chopped) 1/3 cup celery (diced) 1/4 diced scotch bonnet pepper 1/4 cup all purpose flour 2 cups tomato soup 1/2 cup coconut milk 1/4 teaspoon curry powder (I used a Madras blend) pinch of salt (the tomato soup will already have salt) pinch of black pepper Notes: I used shrimp with both the shell and heads on as I needed those parts for making the stock for the bisque. With the scotch bonnet pepper, remember that most of the heat is within the seeds and white
membrane surrounding the seeds. Don’t use this area if you’re concerned about raw heat. Do try to get a good tomato soup and not the cheap canned stuff. I find that type of tomato soup has a sort of metallic taste and is just terrible. The first step in making this tasty shrimp bisque, is to clean the shrimp and use the heads + shell to make a stock. If you purchased already peeled/deveined shrimp, you may have to use a seafood stock instead. I gave the shrimp a good wash before cleaning as I knew I would be using the shell and heads in the stock. After cleaning the shrimp heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a deep pan and add the heads and shell of the shrimp on medium heat. You’ll notice that it will change color to a sort of pink/orange color (about 3 minutes). This is when you add the water, bring to a boil and reduce to a gentle simmer. Allow that to simmer for 20 minutes. Dice the celery, scallions and scotch bonnet pepper. Then in another sauce pan (medium heat) add the remaining butter and as it melts, add the scallions, celery and scotch bonnet pepper. Allow that gently cook for 4-5 minutes. Now add the flour to the pot and whisk constantly or it will burn.. The idea is to cook the flour and create a roux base for the bisque. The heat should be at min and do allow this to cook for at least 5 mins or you will have a raw flour taste at the end. * Cut each shrimp in half length-
wise, then cut each strip in two pieces. So each shrimp will give you four pieces. Now it’s time to assemble the shrimp bisque. Add the tomato soup and strain in the shrimp stock we made. Remember to whisk as you add the tomato soup.. before adding the hot stock or risk getting lumps from the roux. Bring that up to a simmer then add the curry powder, some fresh ground black pepper and the coconut milk. Stir, cover and simmer on low for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, it’s time to add the pieces of raw shrimp and since shrimp cooks very fast, allow it to cook for 3 min-
utes. Now check for salt and adjust accordingly. You should now have a delicious Caribbean inspired coconut shrimp bisque ready for serving. A thick slice of good bread or coconut bake and you’re good to go. Now if your dad is old school like mine.. don’t dare ask him if he wants some soup and serve him this. He will be expecting salted meats and thick with yam, dasheen, green fig and other provisions he associates with ‘soup’.
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Fat facts
Dentures
Monique Bartlett Contributor Consider fat as nature’s energy savings account. There are three basic roles of fat: Fat is used as a fuel source, it provides essential fatty acids: linoleic acid (omega-6), alphalinolenic acid (omega-3) and it also adds flavor and texture in the foods we eat. Fat helps to support our cell membranes, provide energy, organ protection, thermal regulation, carries vitamins and aids in nerve transmission. Too much saturated fat can cause cardiovascular disease, otherwise known as heart disease. Sadly, there is an approximate 50% chance of dying from a first heart attack. 38% of women die within a year of heart attack, while 46% of women are disabled after heart attack. So what can men and women do to lower this risk? If you smoke, stop smoking, lose excess fat, especially abdominal fat if you have a few extra pounds, do a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise a day, improve HDL cholesterol and lower LDL cholesterol (you can speak to your doctor about this), control
your blood pressure, reduce stress, get regular sleep, and if you are depressed get support or treatment. Why is smoking a precursor to heart disease? There are over 100 noxious chemicals in smoke. Nicotine, which causes blood vessel constriction, and other chemicals that speed up the heart rate. Damage to the lungs also makes heart have to work harder. Smoking also impairs the oxygen carrying capacity of red blood cells. Abdominal fat poses the greatest risk for heart disease. There are several factors which cause people to develop fat: age, gender, physical in activity, behavior factors and genetics. In diet only programs the average amount of fat loss is approximately 28%. You will need to exercise to burn more fat, burn more calories and increase your lean muscle tone. That doesn’t mean that you have to go to the gym and become a gym rat. You can do yoga, pilates, walking, Zumba and many other activities that you like but will get the blood flowing and the heart pumping. You need to exercise at a comfortable but challenging intensity. Remember, the goal of an exercise program for weight loss is to create the best total caloric deficit. We all need fat to survive, it’s just the amount of fat intake that we need to be conscious of. So now that you know some basic facts about fat, go out there and reduce your fat percentage to stay happy, healthy and fit.
How to stop a cough before it gets worse
Trish Browning Contributor Winter season is fast approaching and many children and even adults will start to catch some cold that cannot be treated easily. But, there are still hopes to stop this dreaded cough from ruining your winter season. By reading this article you can find ways that you can apply every night to quickly stop cough from attacking. 1. The first step you have to do is to get a warm blanket before going to sleep. During bedtime make sure that you have enough blankets to cover the whole body including the feet and chest. 2. The next step is to get a clean thick towel. If there is no available clean towel you can also use or substitute a clean t-shirt for this next step. Always ensure that the blanket is pulled over up to the chest of your child. Avoid the blanket from covering his face. 3. The third thing to do is to place the towel or the t-shirt around the neck of your child, but not too tight. Ensure that there is no visible skin showing around your child’s neck while he is sleeping. 4. Elevate his pillow at night if he is suffering from extreme occurrence of cough together with this above procedure. 5. In the morning have your child a quick hot steamy bath. You can also rub some Vicks vapor rub unto the soles or your child’s feet and put some socks before bedtime.
Staying hydrated can help ease coughing. It’s the most basic principle to follow when you’re sick: Stay hydrated. Water thins mucus secretions, helping to move all that gunk out of your respiratory system. Water can also help your immune system function properly. Drink a glass every two hours. Eat right. Certain foods encourage mucus production, which can increase the amount of phlegm your body produces. Avoid dairy products especially, and lay off the chocolate and processed, refined or “junk” food. Heal with honey. Among honey’s many health benefits is its ability to soothe sore throats and suppress coughs. Add a spoonful to a cup of hot tea or take it straight. Opt for raw honey, which has more medicinal benefits than processed honey. Ginger has many health benefits, including its ability to treat cold symptoms such as coughing.(try grating a small piece of fresh ginger and squeeze the juice out, about 1 tablespoon add a few drops of honey and drink before bed) Hyssop: This member of the mint family can loosen phlegm and soothe mucus membranes. Infuse ¼ ounce of hyssop into boiling water to make a soothing tea. Licorice soothes sore throats and naturally suppresses coughing. Licorice can interfere with other medications and should not be taken if you have high blood pressure, however. Peppermint contains menthol, a common ingredient in many cough and cold remedies. Menthol works as a decongestant and expectorant, meaning it will help thin and remove mucus. Drink peppermint-infused tea or add three to four drops of peppermint oil to a steam bath for inhalation.
Dr. Matthew S Weekes BSC DDS MTh DMin
Contributor Dentures are the most common treatment worldwide for replacing missing teeth. removable dentures are partial and complete dentures. There are two major types of removal partial dentures(RPD). The better type has as its supporting structure a cast metal framework from which extend metal clasp that fits around one or two natural teeth on both sides of the mouth to provide retention and stability of the denture. The second type of RPD has for its main structure an acrylic (plastic) plate with or without wire clasps. A cast RPD is the treatment of choice if there are healthy teeth on either side of the mouth. The precision fitted clasps and metal extensions that rest of these teeth absorb most of the chewing forces and helps to protect the soft tissue from the damaging effects of chronic irritation. Acrylic or non cast RPD directs most the the functional forces to the soft tissue which is often the cause of severe inflammation, gum disease and the weakening of the teeth. The extent to which this takes place depends on the dental hygiene and care of the dentures.
Therefore whenever possible choose a cast RPD over acrylic (plastic) one. Complete dentures are placed in the mouth when there are no natural teeth present. How well they perform depends of the ridges on which they rest. If the ridges are firm with satisfactory bone support underneath this should provide a more stable denture than if the ridges are soft and movable. As time passes the denture may become loose due to shrinkage of soft tissue under the denture. The problem may be solved by relining the denture or it may be necessary to have new ones made. Tips for denture users. 1. Never sleep with your dentures in your mouth at nights, or days if you work at nights. 2. Brush them thoroughly and keep in a container of water with dissolved cleansing tablets. 3. After initial insertion make sure to return to the dentist or denturist the next day or shortly after for adjustments to relieve any sore spots or discomfort. 4. Do not put your dentures in the mouth and bite into them. This often causes clasps to break. 5. At your regular cleaning visits have your dentist check your dentures. 6. Do not keep them out the mouth for months and expect them to fit. Changes in the mouth may prevent them from going into place and render them useless.
12 Wednesday, October 10, 2012
TORONTO CARIBBEAN
Immigration matters: Immigrate the right way…
Marva Kollar Contributor Immigration representation is very controversial. Some people are petrified by the negative publicity about immigration fraud. Temporary Foreign Workers with job offer arrived in Canada jobless and approximately 11,000 Canadian Citizens are now on the verge of having their status revoked. A few months ago, “Mary Lamb” paid “Bim & Bam” Overseas Canadian Agents almost her entire life savings to migrate to Canada. Upon arrival in Canada, she attempted to sponsor a member of the family class and was exploited several times before meeting “Beatme Moore” an Unauthorized Representative, also known as a Ghost Consultant who filled the forms, guaranteed visa and top notch service for a small fee. Not only was the sponsorship application refused, “Mary” owed the duty of truthfulness to declare that a third party assisted in completing the immigration forms. At the risk of being deported on the grounds of Misrepresentation; an act that could result in having her status revoked and being barred from Canada for five years, she retained an Authorized Representative and was granted a Stay of Removal.
Immigration rules changes constantly. The most notable change which came into force since June 30, 2011 was An Act that Amended the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (formerly called the Cracking Down on Crooked Consultants Act) followed by public awareness, antifraud campaigns and advertisements. The penalty for Ghost Consultants who provides immigration representation or advice for a fee is $100,000 and/or two years in jail. Don’t be robbed of the “Canadian Dream”. No one can guarantee a visa of any sort. Forms must be filled according to the Immigration Regulations and the final Decision to issue a temporary or permanent resident visa rest with the visa officer who, either: a) issue the visa; or b) refuse the visa based on specific section “XYZ” of the Act. Authorized Representatives are regulated, carries errors and omissions insurance, undergo criminal background checks, and without meeting professional development standards, are unable to renew their licence all of which comes at a cost; hence, a fee is charged for advice or representation and is generally industry standard. While the Use of a Representative rests solely with the individual applicant, prospective immigrants who exercise their Right to Counsel increases their chance to meet the ever changing immigration rules, immigrate to Canada the right way without the fear of losing your Canadian status. There are four categories of paid
Authorized Representatives to act on your behalf at immigration tribunals, Federal Court, Québec Superior Court or the Supreme Court of Canada. You may choose from lawyers and paralegals in good standing with provincial or territorial law society, Notaries in good standing with the Chambre des notaires du Québec and Registered Canadian Immigration Consultants in good standing with the Immigration Consultants
of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC) http://www.iccrc-crcic.ca/public/membershiplistFull.cfm. (Learn more about why use a Regulated Consultant in Canadian Immigration by visiting: http://www.iccrc-crcic. ca/public/charteredPractitioners.cfm) Victims of Ghost Consultants are protected. Overcome your fear by contacting Canada Border Watch Tip Line at 1-888502-9060 anonymously.
Give your employee $100 for every mistake they make (WHAT!!!)
JG Francoeur Contributor Here’s an outrageous idea on how to treat employees and how to discipline employees. If somebody makes a mistake and reports to you that they have made a mistake I want you to ‘discipline them’ by giving them a $100 bill for trying. You’re thinking that rewarding someone for a mistake sounds crazy. However, the reasoning has genius all over it. It’s useful because people are scared to try these days and rewarding someone’s effort is extremely valuable. First of all, nobody makes mistakes on purpose. They don’t set out to make a mistake and when people make mistakes they obviously don’t feel good about them but mistakes are a great way to learn and grow. In Principle 5 of MESSY Manager I talk about ‘developing your people’ – thay’s
what management and leadership is all about. You must develop your people and making mistakes is a great way to develop your people (ever hear the faster you fail the faster you thrive). When someone makes a mistake, I want you to follow this process (also works for you children believe it or not!). For every mistake they make: 1. Give them a $100 bill (also works with $10 or $20) and ask these questions after you give the employees a $100 bill 2. What happened exactly… how did the situation unfold (get them talking) 3. What could you have done differently 4. Are you willing to do it differently next time (you’re looking for a yes answer) Thay’s it! It’s that simple! Imagine the mental shift in the minds of the employees when they don’t get ridiculed, scolded, laughed at, embarassed or punished for mistakes but rather you celebrate THE EFFORT which is just as important as the result. The shift can be monumental and this idea alone can help your organization (or department if you are a manager) 2X your sales + 3X your profits.
Three Rivers Kids Foundation Mission Heartbeat 2013 Three Rivers Kids Foundation is a Registered Charitable Organization in Ontario, Canada (BN 87012 2504 RR0001). The goal of this organization is to help sick children in Guyana whose parents are too poor to afford medical care. The foundation supplies medications to children from Guyana on a regular basis. They also supply wheel chairs, commodes, prescription eye glasses, and hearing aids. There are hundreds of sick and poor children in Guyana who are in desperate need of medical help. Guyana does not have any pediatric cardiac surgeons and lacks many medical specialists and facilities. Most of these children suffer from life threatening conditions and will not survive if they do not receive the proper medical care. Three Rivers Kids Foundation has no overhead costs such as office rent, utility
bills, or salaries. All the board members are unpaid volunteers. Every dollar that is donated goes directly to helping the children. To date, Three Rivers Kids Foundation has helped over 62 children receive life-saving surgery, however there are hundreds more waiting for your help. On the 13th Oct at 6pm the Three Rivers Kids Foundation will be hosting their annually Fundraiser and Dance at Shingar Banquet Hall 2080 Steeles Avenue , Brampton,L6T-5A6.Come out and support those in need. Tickets are $40 for adults and $20 for Kids under 10. They will be serving a buffet style dinner with appetizer. For more info or tickets please call Tara: (416) 798-3591 | Jeanette: (905) 8916149 | Bhola Misir: (905) 470-1306 | Savi: (905) 513-0426
TORONTO CARIBBEAN
Your Horoscope - October 10th 2012 Aries Horoscope (March 21-April 20): Jupiter retrograde clues you in with a new set of eyes. You’ll gain clarity on a future plan or path, or a specific friendship or sibling issue. The next few months are an ideal time to reconnect or to resume studies, writing projects, or ambitions. Friday’s talk, decision, news, or threshold crossing puts you on the move. It all changes from here. Taurus Horoscope (April 21May 21): An away-from-it-all, no-fuss long weekend is the right aim. Then again, if there are folks to share with, well, that’s good too. While partnership bonds can grow deeper now, Mars in Sagittarius and Jupiter retrograde can keep you busy in separate worlds. Deliberately plan time for each other. If it isn’t meant to carry on, it won’t last much longer. Gemini Horoscope (May 23-June 20): As the week finishes out, you are likely to feel a sense of accomplishment, completion, or finality. Moving forward from here, it’s time to put a more dedicated effort into your getting-ahead program. A modification or complete overhaul may be required. How to tell the difference? It’s got to deliver the goods, or it’s time to search for a better replacement. Cancer Horoscope (June 21July 20): Beginning Friday, Saturn in Scorpio says it’s time to agree to a new lease on life and to settle in for the long haul. For the next couple years, Saturn sets you to task, helping you to create the fulfillment you desire most. Better health and a career change are good places to start. The weekend can be replenishing for body, mind, and soul. Leo Horoscope (July 21-Aug. 22): Through Saturday, there are five notable planetary transitions. Whether the plans stay or change—and whether hopes and expectations are met or not—you’ll view it as a natural course unfolding. The week’s end concludes or cements something major. Changing your relationship to yourself, family, and money, Saturn in Scorpio starts you on a profoundly transformative two-and-a half-year cycle. Virgo Horoscope (Aug. 23Sept. 22): If you have been caught up in confusion, uncertainty, or fence-sitting, look to Friday’s Mercury/Saturn transit to provide the answer or confirmation you need. Jupiter retrograde also strings the sentence into a more readable format. Saturn in Scorpio refortifies you. Through October, Venus and Mars act as confidence boosters. Yes, you deserve better. Gift yourself, be a gogetter. Reclaim your power.
Libra Horoscope (Sept. 23Oct. 22): Taking you to the end of a one-year add-on or extension cycle, Mercury completes with Saturn on Friday just before both planets exit Libra. Saturn in Scorpio prompts you to better define your ambitions, boundaries, and financial and personal needs, both to yourself and those who need to know. This Thanksgiving weekend, differences can fall by the wayside. Family togetherness can be healing and heart-warming. Scorpio Horoscope (Oct. 23Nov. 21): By the end of the work week, you’ll move past resistance or reluctance, yours or theirs. The time for holding back is over. Over the next few days, something can slip out that sets you on a faster track. Facilitated by Neptune, Ceres, and Chiron, Saturn in Scorpio signals a ripe moment to initiate a major power play. October’s brew is especially potent. Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov. 22-Dec. 20): As the work week comes to its close, Mercury/ Saturn bring a relationship matter, project, or contract to a finish line. From here, you’ll have no trouble switching off of the recent target and onto another. Starting Saturday, revitalizing Mars in Sagittarius sends you racing out of the gate. Aim to widen the distance between yesterday and now. The stars help you to make excellent time. Capricorn Horoscope (Dec. 21-Jan. 20): If your birthday falls at the end of Capricorn, you’ll feel Friday’s Mercury/ Saturn transit as a significant passage. You can reach a career high or close the books on an important chapter of your life. Either way, as of the weekend, the stars are already onto the next page. The long weekend is for relaxing, sharing, and enjoying. Aquarius Horoscope (Jan. 21Feb. 18): The end of the week is a tide-turner. Expect to hear important news regarding a legal, scholastic, financial, or professional matter. You could gain added recognition, an award, or an official status. It is a momentous time to publish, perform, or travel, to launch a new business venture, or to tie the knot. Significant change starts now. Pisces Horoscope (Feb. 18-March 20): After the past several hard years, Saturn’s advance out of Libra and into Scorpio is sure to feel like someone has just opened a window and let you out. October and November bring you more freedom and lucrative choice than you’ve had in a long time. Travel, teach, mentor, perform, publish, explore. Go where you feel welcomed and inspired.
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14 Wednesday, October 10, 2012
TORONTO CARIBBEAN
Highway 407: Options, Priorities, Choices, and Consequences
Tammy Flores Contributor On March 22, 2011, Robert Benzie of the Toronto Star reported that, “Premier Dalton McGuinty says he’s ‘all ears’ to a proposal that could return $1 billion to Ontarians from the owners of Hwy. 407.” Unfortunately, more than 563 days later, there has been no follow up by any of the Premier’s political advisors or the Ontario public service. If Premier Dalton McGuinty is sincere and genuine in his concern about 407ETR’s spiralling tolls and sub-par customer service, he is not defenceless if he truly wishes to take the steps that are necessary and sufficient to protect drivers on Highway 407 ETR. There are three specific “lawful” options available to the government in dealing with 407ETR—each with varying degrees of effectiveness and utility—that arise from the applicable legal agreements and legislation. At one end of the spectrum is the first option—Article 6 of the Tolling, Congestion Relief and Expansion Agreement which is Schedule 22 to the Concession and Ground Lease Agreement. “Respecification” allows for either party to the agreement to request an amendment that would more fully achieve the stated purposes of
the agreement. It relies, however, upon the good faith of both parties to act and negotiate in a manner that transcends their own selfish interests to arrive at a collective good. Unfortunately, given that 407ETR is a profit-maximizing entity, there are currently no reasons why it would do so. To the best of my knowledge and understanding, the government has already previously attempted to use this option. At the other end of the spectrum, rests the second option—paragraph 12 of Schedule B to the Legal Opinion of Counsel to Vendor addressed to the Purchaser [407 International Inc. nee 1346292 Ontario Inc.] and Equity Participants [at the time of closing these were SNC-Lavalin Inc., Grupo Ferrovial, S.A., and Cintra Concesiones de Infraestructuras de Transporte, S.A.] which is Schedule 6.1.4 of the Share Purchase Agreement. The law firms of Goodmans and Fasken Martineau were the Counsel to Vendor (i.e., legal counsel to the Province of Ontario on the Highway 407 privatization). Specifically, in the legal opinion, the privatesector purchasers were advised that: “Our opinion on the enforceability of the Purchase Agreement is subject to the overriding power of the Crown to repudiate contracts by specific unambiguous legislation.” Yes, 407ETR et al were warned in advance by the government’s legal counsel that it is entirely within the right of the Province of Ontario to repudiate the agreements at some juncture in the future by specific unambiguous legislation without compensation and it can’t be said that the purchaser and its equity participants (and subsequent shareholders such as the Canada Pension Plan In-
vestment Board) were not forewarned about this possibility back in 1999. As a matter of fact, 407ETR acknowledges in documents on its website that they “are bound by the laws of Ontario and Canada”. No doubt such an action would have enormous populist appeal amongst Highway 407 users that reside in critical electoral districts that ring the GTHA. Such action would be reminiscent of the bold actions taken by Danny Williams, the former premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, in respect of Abitibi-Bowater’s failure to abide by its obligations to maintain a mill in his province. Coincidentally, Spain (the home country of Cintra/Ferrovial) took similar action in regards to its green energy program in 2010. As reported on August 11, 2004 by John Ibbitson in the Globe and Mail, the Spanish government has in the past protested when the Province of Ontario was disputing matters with 407 ETR back in January 2004 through to March 2006, even going as far as warning that they would veto free-trade negotiations between Canada and the European Union to protect Ferrovial/Cintra’s inter-
ests. Given their own more recent actions, it would be hypocritical in the extreme for Spain to do so now given their own actions to repudiate green energy contracts. Furthermore, 407ETR is no longer majority-owned by Spanish interests. There are those, however, that are concerned that taking such bold action would lead to a chill in the inflow of foreign investment into the Ontario economy especially in the area of infrastructure projects that are delivered by Infrastructure Ontario through Alternative Financing and Procurement (or, as the rest of the world calls them, public-private partnerships/P3s). History suggests that such concerns are overblown. Given the willingness of Premier McGuinty to get tough with public-sector workers (e.g., teachers), one wonders why his government is not prepared to exercise the same toughness with 407ETR. Co-written with Jodie Parmar Jodie Parmar, is a former Vice President, Corporate Development, Privatization Secretariat/Ontario and successfully led the $3.107 billion privatization of Highway 407.