Congratulations to the new 2012
MISS WEST INDIAN CANADIAN
By Cindy Ramkumar BRAMPTON -- Elegant and gracious were the only words that stuck in my mind when I attended this event October 21st. The event took place at Pearson Convention Centre, Brampton. There were lots and lots of Exhibitors, from Bridal, Arts & Entertainment, to Health and Beauty. Varied food samples, henna tattoo, singers, comedians and entertainers took over the spotlight. I couldn’t help myself from eating
the free cotton candy, as I was constantly drawn to that machine like a magnet. Cupcakes and deserts by Events2life grabbed my attention as I made way the exhibitors booths. I actually made several rounds just to sample the cupcakes, as they were decadent and awfully tasty. I am sure almost all attendees sampled the cotton candy and cupcakes. I was captivated by Jewelizeu, as the jewellery pieces were gorgeous. Captivating the evening was a wide array of beautiful girls, ranging from Little
Miss West Indian Canadians girls to the Miss West Indian Canadian contestants. The contestants were exquisitely dressed in the most beautiful evening wear I have seen. From the looks of it, most of the dresses were individually designed to suit the contestants demeanour. Definitely, some of these dresses are not store bought. Their hair and make up was immaculate and their poise on stage was breath-taking. Continued On Page 5
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Three Rivers Kids Foundation; the foundation that keeps on giving to Guyana’s children
Cindy Ramkumar Reporter TORONTO -- Three Rivers Kids Foundation with a mission of Heartbeat 2013 sets out to educate, inform and make the attending participants of its dinner and dance function, aware of the important contribution its foundation has made to kids of Guyana, but more importantly, its intention to help the poorest kids of the community with their health challenges. Due to Guyana`s lack of pediatric cardiac surgeons, Three Rivers Kids Foundation took the initiative to raise funds to help kids in need. On October 13th, at Shingar Banquet Hall, a formal Dinner and Dance was held, to raise awareness of the Foundation, its goals, objectives, and at the same time recognise its contributors and thank persons for their donation. The Foundation recognised Mr. Dhaman Kissoon, a lawyer for his large contribution to the Foundation. The Foundation also applauded Kristen, a student who after obtaining her first paycheque, gave the Foundation a hundred ($100.00) dollars, this in itself shows
the selflessness of Kristen. Often, the question is asked, how can we help besides monetary contribution. The answer to this is rather simple. These kids come from Guyana to Canada, and travel from Canada to India to have their operations and surgeries. After the operation, they return to Canada, then travel on their way home to Guyana. These kids are in need of everything consumable that is imaginable when they arrive in Canada. They are arriving from warm tropical climate, and are not familiar or comfortable with cold or chilly Canada, and as such are in need of clothing, footwear, hats, gloves, mittens, scarves etc. Dependant on their ages, they may need car seats, or they may need teenage attire. Basically anything that can be donated to the Three Rivers Kids Foundation would be greatly appreciated. Based on financial and monetary contributions and donations, the possibility of bringing 6 kids to Canada in 2013 may have been increased to 13 kids. This is really good news. It means that we have dug deeper into our pockets, we have valued the work of the Three Rivers Kids Foundation and we are appreciative of its work and efforts to help those less fortunate than ourselves. For more information and methods to donate monetary or otherwise to the Three Rivers Kids Foundation visit the website www.threeriverskidsfoundation.org, or call any of the following members: Tara - 416 798 3591, Jeanette - 905 891 6149, Bhola Missir 905 470 1306, Savi - 905 513 0426
Cox looks to retain top position in PNM Women’s League
Tiffany, 23, of Grenadian and European descent and is currently a student at York University taking anthropology.
Born and raised in Toronto Tiffany loves her city. 4th runner up in this past summers “Miss Black Beauty Canada 2012” pageant, this beauty loves bellydance and Bollywood dancing. “I have a passion for the arts!” You could be our next editions “TC Girl”! To enter, send your photo and a brief description to info@torontocaribbean.com
TRINIDAD (TG) -- Chairman of the People’s National Movement (PNM) Women’s League Donna Cox wants to retain that position when it is contested at the party’s internal elections next week so she can continue to empower women. The Laventille East/ Morvant MP is being challenged for the position by Pennelope Beckles-Robinson, Senate Opposition leader, in the elections which will take place during the party’s annual convention at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Portof-Spain, next Sunday. “I have been chairman from 2008 to the present and my achievements include getting women more involved in politics and empowering them with skills,” Cox told the T&T Guardian, when she was interviewed during a break at last Friday’s sitting of the House of Representatives. “After I took over, the membership increased significantly. The feedback is encouraging. A lot of women have said their lives have improved with some of the interventions I made. I want to be able to equip women to the fullest. I want to encourage more women to get into politics. Many times, you see women bringing a man for screening for a political post. There is room for more women.” Cox organised three Women in Politics seminars during her tenure at the helm of the Women’s League. While political activism is important, she also focuses on issues that boost the emotional and physical welfare of women. Zeroing on her Laventille/Morvant community, Cox said she assisted with construction of the Early Childhood Centre, hosts an annual a Day of
Grooming for the elderly, as well as monthly distribution of hampers. “I try to help the less fortunate, even dipping into my own pockets,” she said. “I make representations on their behalf for houses. I have been able to secure jobs. I have assisted them financially and otherwise with community and sporting events. I work closely with the schools and principals.” Cox who lives in Diego Martin, but attends Church on the Rock in Morvant, said: “I enjoy socialising with my constituents. I attend their gatherings at places like Las Alturas. I try to build a good relationship with them. “I have tried my best to serve the people. I am optimistic they would support me. I want to continue giving them good representation.”
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Government, IMF mull over draft agreement JAMAICA (JO) -- Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller says that her Government is now discussing a draft Letter of Intent that will embody its commitments during the period of a new agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The prime minister made the announcement yesterday, two days after the third Cabinet retreat where the IMF agreement was one of two issues that dominated discussions. She said a “programme of work” that will address several areas critical to reaching an agreement with the Fund is to be implemented in coming weeks. According to Simpson Miller, the areas to be addressed include the ongoing public sector wage negotiations, the reduction of discretionary waivers, and setting an “acceptable timeframe” to “achieve the desired debt ratio”, which is now approximately 140 per cent of the country’s gross domestic product. “The Bank of Jamaica will also continue to focus on reducing inflation and supporting financial system stability. In doing
so, the Central Bank will conduct monetary policy within the existing framework of a managed floating exchange rate regime,” she said in a statement prior to her departure for an official visit to Canada. This, she explained, will maintain the competitiveness of the Jamaican dollar while using its instruments to ensure stability in the money, credit and foreign exchange markets. Reiterating the importance of the agreement to addressing the country’s social problems, she said the Government was “working as hard as possible to conclude an agreement, but agreements of this sort exist between two parties”. “The timetable is, therefore, not ours alone to set. The process is a very difficult and complex one. The negotiation requires us to do the best we can to ensure that we get an agreement that is in the best interest of Jamaica. “An agreement is very important for addressing the critical economic and social problems that the country now faces. The agreement must ensure that we not only carry out strategic reforms, but also lay the founda-
tion for sustainable growth. This is the only sound and sustainable basis on which we are going to deal with our very serious public debt situation,” Simpson Miller said. Meanwhile, the retreat also facilitated the assessment of the progress of each ministry to determine whether they are “meeting the commitments made to the Jamaican people that are outlined in the People’s National Party’s Manifesto”. “...These are in keeping with the national growth agenda being pursued by the Government, while it seeks to honour its commitments to protect the vulnerable,” Simpson Miller said. She also promised “increased communication of matters of governance” with Jamaicans at home and abroad. “I have given my ministers the charge not only to be energetic and effective in the running of their ministries, but to have constant communication with the sector groups and communities most directly impacted by the programmes they undertake,” the prime minister said.
Mayor supports allowance for municipal police officers TRINIDAD (TG) -- Chaguanas mayor Orlando Nagessar supports a monthly allowance for municipal police officers. Nagessar, who attended a military parade to celebrate the Chaguanas Borough Corporation 21st anniversary said it was unfair that municipal police officers were left out when special reserve officers were recently granted a $1,000 monthly allowance.
Nagessar also used the occasion to appeal to the five MPs whose electoral district pass through the borough to lobby Cabinet to make Chaguanas a city. Nagessar said the borough has fulfilled every criteria for city status. Yesterday’s parade, which was regarded as the largest ever held in Chaguanas, was attended by several ministers including
National Security Minister Jack Warner, Local Government Minister Suruj Rambachan and Minister in the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Ramona Ramdial. The parade began at around 10 am at the Montrose Junction. The mayor inspected the troops before they marched to the borough corporation’s headquarters at Cumberbatch Street.
Police Commissioner admonishes GPF to improve professionalism says he will lead by example, and not ‘buckle under pressure’ GUYANA (GC) -- Acting Commissioner of Police, Mr. Leroy Brumell said the gap existing in relations between the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and members of the public is no secret. This gap, he said, must be bridged and the only possible way that can be achieved is when police officers approach issues they confront in a professional manner. Addressing members of the GPF as they gathered on Friday to be rewarded for their performances at the recently concluded GPForganised shooting competition, Brumell told ranks that the Force has been receiving much criticism for the manner in which ranks have been discharging their firearms. He spoke of the Agricola incident involving Shaquille Grant, and the shooting death of Dameon Belgrave at the White Castle Fish Shop, in advising ranks that it was important that they take criticism in good faith. He explained that criticism should
work as motivation irrespective of its source. “When criticisms are levelled at you, you need to take it like big men and women,” the commissioner advised. Brumell noted that the Force had recently been taking a lot of bashing, but said ranks must take bashing of the Force like professionals. He told officers to take the bashing, get up and brush it off, and move on with their lives. Brumell reminded the Force that its work must go on despite the amount of criticism and bashing coming its way. He said the Force has a job to do and that job must be done without favour or ill-will. “The job of the Guyana Police Force is to serve each and every (resident) of the country and ensure that (each resident is) protected. The Police (Force) also has the task (of) offering and ensuring that it provides lawful support to the government of the day, again without favour and/or ill-will,” the commissioner added on Friday.
Ranks were told that problems they face in the Guyana Police Force were not major ones, and can all be corrected once the right approach is adopted. Ranks were also informed that other police forces across the globe were also having problems which they confronted from time to time. Deputy Police Commissioner Leroy Brumell has been Guyana’s acting Commissioner of Police since earlier this year. He told his ranks that they need to be strong, and show determination in confronting situations. He said that, as commissioner of police and head of the force, he would continue to be strong; and he urged his ranks to follow suit. Brumell said he would not be like other persons who tendered their resignations and buckled under pressure in the face of hardship. He said the way persons deal with adversities determine their worth. He told officers that as long as he is strong, he wanted the rest of them to remain strong and resolute to fight situations that arise.
Warner calls for united attack on crime TRINIDAD (TG) -- The battle against crime is everyone’s duty, says National Security Minister Jack Warner. Warner made the point after taking part in a cancer awareness march organised by Flaming Word Ministries in Chaguanas. He said he and officials from his ministry would be taking that crime awareness message throughout T&T in a series of community meetings. Warner said his anti-crime band-
wagon rolled into Enterprise last week and will be heading to Maloney and Carapo this week. He urged citizens to take full advantage of an initiative introduced in the budget for CCTV camera systems to be tax-exempt and reminded householders that they will have the option of hooking their CCTV systems into the police network which would be monitored, giving the authorities an extra eye in the battle against crime.
Warner praised Flaming Word Ministries for staging its annual cancer awareness march and promised to assist the organisation in spreading cancer awareness throughout his constituency of Chaguanas West in particular and T&T in general. The minister urged citizens to pay stringent attention to their health, and encouraged youngsters to be aware of what they choose to eat and ensure they get enough exercise.
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Steelband world mourns legend Bertie Marshall TRINIDAD (TG) -- The steelband world was plunged into mourning yesterday with news of the passing of steelband legend Bertie Marshall. The father of three children, Marshall, 74, fought a lengthy battle with diabetes, and succumbed at his home in La Cou Harpe, East Dry River, Port-of-Spain. For well over half a century Marshall was revered as one of the world’s premier technicians and one of the inventors of the national instrument. One of his most innovative inventions was the amplified high tenor, fondly referred to as “the Chinee pan,” in the 1960s. This instrument, played by the late Franklyn Ollivierra, was in the frontline of Marshall’s Laventille steel orchestra—Highlanders—and was a much coveted acquisition. Pan Trinbago president Keith Diaz said yesterday: “Bertie was the ultimate icon of pan invention in T&T. He would be missed for the excellent tonal quality he brought to the instrument. Bertie produced instruments of the highest quality. “Bertie improved the steelpan by bringing the harmonics on the note. Also, when he created the high tenor pan, panmen of the day didn’t like it. People envious of the instrument’s tone and potential even tried to destroy the pans. “Bertie was the first person to introduce electronics to pan. He later experimented with the Bert Fone and the double tenor. Up to now the double tenor is the only instrument between the single and the double second pans. “On a personal note, Bertie was a very outspoken person, but he was a genuine human being from inside. To panmen, deep inside he was a loving, caring kind of person who was dedicated
to the instrument. When other people, Bertie’s peers, ran away from the pan, and went abroad, Bertie, like Anthony Williams, stayed in Trinidad and improved our national instrument. “After his home in Laventille was destroyed by fire, Bertie, with the late Rudolph Charles, worked together and created a whole new range of instruments, like the quadrophonic, six pan, ying and yang, chariot and rocket pans. Their collaboration was extremely vital in giving Desperadoes its unique and much envied tonal quality.” Witco Desperadoes manager Dr Finbar Fletcher said:“I think Bertie came into the band in 1970, when the band’s tuner, Bassman, migrated. That was the year the band won the Panorama competition, playing Margie. “Despers won ten Panorama titles to date, and Bertie tuned pans for nine of them. He was arguably the main ingredient of the Despers sound, along with Charlo (Rudolph Charles), Wallace (Austin) and Lincoln (Noel). Bertie and Charlo were supposedly the main architects of that sound. “Sadly, in the early part of the last decade Bertie fell ill and slowed down a bit. Most of the instruments we (Desperadoes) currently use, while now blended by others, were originally tuned by Bertie. Bertie’s legacy will live on with band. “Bertie was someone we could always call on for advice, especially in the area of tuning. “His death is a tremendous loss to Desperadoes. Many of the young people in the band would not know him, but we, the older guys, know him and know that he is responsible for placing Desperadoes way ahead of all steelbands. The Despers sound is something other
bands strive to attain.” Adding his condolences to Marshall’s family yesterday, Robert Greenidge, Desperadoes arranger, now based in San Francisco, USA, said: “It’s a very sad time for us of Des-
peradoes, and I can only hope that Pan Trinbago and the Government would do everything in their power to keep the legacy of Bertie Marshall alive, and give him a great send-off, one deserving of a professor and genius.”
Jack: It’s sanctimonious hypocrisy TRINIDAD (TG) -- National Security Minister Jack Warner has criticised Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley for what he described as a “frontal attack on the personal integrity and character of the Senate President and acting President Timothy Hamel-Smith.” Warner said Rowley has brought the office of the President into disrepute and attacked the Constitution of Trinidad and Tobago with his unwarranted criticism against the acting President. Warner commented on the PNM political leader’s criticism of Hamel-Smith for claiming that after he investigated all documents related to the Section 34 fiasco, he found nothing unfair about former Justice Minister Herbert Volney’s dismissal. In a statement released in his capacity as chairman of the United National Congress (UNC), Warner described Rowley’s reasoning as sanctimonious hypocrisy. He said Rowley in one breath spoke about infringement on the Constitution, but in the other, “stomps his muddy feet all over it.” The minister also questioned the role of the independent civil organisations like the Joint Trade Union Movement, FITUN, the Joint Consultative Council and the MSJ, saying it was not surprising that when he speaks on any issue they scream blood, but when their po-
litical co-conspirator Rowley does worse their lips remain sealed. COP political leader Prakash Ramadhar, who also issued a statement on the matter, said Rowley’s sudden interest in Constitution reform is equally unbelieveable. He said the hypocrisy of Rowley’s claim of bias and “rubber-stamping” is obscene. Ramadhar said Rowley was a senior member of the PNM when it appointed a sitting executive member, Dr Linda Baboolal, and later former government minister, Danny Montano, both active politicians, to the Office of the President of the Senate. He said Rowley never made such claims then. He said upon ascension to the Office of the President of the Senate, Hamel-Smith made it clear that he will not participate in partisan political activity to protect the independence of that office. He has kept his word and always acted with integrity and in exemplary fashion, said Ramadhar. He said Rowley’s attack on the office and officeholder is further evidence that he is unfit for any leadership role in governance. Ramadhar said the COP calls on Rowley to desist from such inflammatory behaviour and to issue an appropriate apology Hamel-Smith and the nation.
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2012 Miss West Indian Canadian
Cindy Ramkumar Reporter Continued From Page 1 -- Also in attendance and on stage was Sara Lee Fashions, Designer Dinesh Ramsay, Comedian Crystal Ferrier and Keesha Brownie, Hip Hop Dancers Diva Dollz and Little Miss West Indian Canadians. While these girls strutted their beauty on stage and garnered the crowd attention, there can only be one winner. The council was
gracious enough to crown four (4) runner ups, and awarded ten (10) Little Miss Awards. Awards are as follows: Little Miss Adorable – Naiyana Bineesari, Little Miss Diva – Jada Niles, Little Miss First Impression – Taleah Hawthorne, Little Miss Personality – Alisha Syne, Little Miss Photogenic – Sariah Seon, Little Miss Princess – Amanda Sequeira, Little Miss Style & Grace – Miya Mohabir, Little Miss Sunshine – Kaitlyn Syne, Little Miss Superstar – Brooklyn Cheddie, Little Miss Sweetheart – Rayah Bena Madhu Miss West Indian Canadian 2012 results are: 4th Runner up – Ashley Debysingh, 3rd Runner up – Roanna Sinclair, 2nd Runner up – Natasha Rai, 1st Runner up – Melanie Mohammed and Miss West Indian Canadian 2012 is Shereen Pasad. Congratulations Shereen!!!!!
Sean Paul for India shows JAMAICA (JO) -- Dancehall artiste Sean Paul will be doing a series of shows in India next month. The shows are scheduled for Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai. Prashant Kumar, Blue Note Entertainment promoter, said Indian fans are excited to see Grammy-winning artiste. “We have been waiting for Sean to come in India since the last five years. Everyone loves him, people here have been dancing on his tunes for years, and with his new album it will be a special treat for all the fans here,” Kumar said. Sean Paul starts his Indian dates on Friday, November 2, at the Quantum Leap nightclub in Delhi. The following day he is scheduled for the Andheri Sports Complex
in Mumbai. He closes on Monday, November 5, at Manpho Convention Center in Bangalore. The shows in India are part of Sean Paul’s promotional campaign for his latest album, Tomahawk Technique, which was released in the United States in September by Atlantic/VP Records.
Will not buckle under pressure Continued From Page 3 -- He recalled the recent protest action at Agricola, when policemen and women exercised great restraint and displayed true professionalism in the face of taunts and acts of provocation; and he reminded his ranks that a duly constituted Commission of Inquiry was presently looking into the issues of July in Linden. During a separate interview with the media, the police commissioner said that based on investigations into the incidents at Agricola two weeks ago, the police have found that many of the persons who were part of the protest were not from Agricola. He said the police have already begun working to improve relations with the young people of Agricola; and on Thursday, that community received some sporting gear
from the GPF’s ‘A’ Division. Additionally, the GPF has sent one of its contractors into the area to begin executing work on one of the schools. Brumell said he was sure the Linden Commission of Inquiry was taking note of the situation. He reminded officers that the one thing they should always be cognisant of is how to deal with situations in a manner that does not agitate those expected to be affected. The top cop explained to his ranks that the force came in for criticisms for not using shields in the Linden protest, and when shields were employed at Agricola, there were criticisms. Brumell said he was even described as weak because of how the Force handled the situation at Agricola.
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The Importance of Chanting
Geeta Maraj Contributor Chanting is commonly associated with yoga. However, almost all religions chant whether it is referred to as chant or not. Chanting involves the repetition of a single syllable, word or a series of words, which hold a sacred connection. The systemic repetition induces spiritual cleansing of the mind. Chanting helps to focus our thoughts, thereby, creating greater mental and emotional strength. Since chanting can help to control a busy mind, it consequently can be a means to conquering health issues, such as depression, hypertension and cardiac problems. Chanting can be spoken verbally, recited mentally, whispered or hummed. Various types of chanting can be combined to improve focusing of the mind. For example, mental chanting, is quite subtle, yet very effective in controlling the turbulent mind. For a beginner however, it may be difficult to maintain such chanting. Alternating mental chanting with verbal chanting, can be a way of preventing the mind from wandering, thereby, improving its beneficial effects. Mental chanting serves to quieten a busy mind. Having a busy mind is the key
cause of many ailments that are a norm in today’s society. With a calmer mind, daily tensions and frustrations are subdued and we become more accepting of our experiences. Chanting helps to disconnect our focus from issues which cause aggressive and angry tendencies. Through a calmer mind, we evolve into beings of greater compassion and love. Consequently chanting taps into our natural inner state of peacefulness, calmness, courage, and patience. A n analogy of the beauteous miracles of chanting can be compared to going on a long journey. In that, while each step of the journey superficially resembles the other, each stride, uniquely takes us into
new territory and moves us closer to our ultimate destination. Similarly, continuous chanting may appear monotonous; yet, each repetition takes us slightly deeper into our consciousness, and closer to the goal of mental peace. Unlike meditation, which requires self-discipline, will power and a serene environment, chanting can be practiced at any time under varying situations. The healing powers and health benefits arising from chanting are especially valuable during onerous experiences. It is advantageous in preventing one from becoming overtly involved with the mundane trivialities of everyday life, and can be a mean of protecting us against anger, stress and depression. All religions whether consciously or otherwise, practice some form of chant. In Christianity, reciting the name of ‘Jesus’ at the end of each praise to God, constitutes a chant. In Catholicism, saying ‘Hail Mary Full of Grace’, repeatedly, is a form of chant. ‘Allahu Akbar’ (God is great) remains a popular chant for Muslims. Similarly in Buddhism ‘Om Mani Padme Hum’ (the jewel in the lotus of the heart) is chanted to produce the same result of deep spiritual
awakening. In Hinduism, the purpose and effects of chanting are more prominent and blatant. Repeating the Supreme name of God, the Cosmic ‘OM’, ‘Rama’, or ‘Krishna’, all constitute chants. Chanting is a mean to creating serenity, and peaceful vibrations from within. Through dedicated practice, the ego or lower self is challenged and the Higher Self begins to take possession, leading to the eventual realization of the Perpetual Self. The eventual goal of chanting is to have our subconscious mentally chant, while we proceed with our general daily tasks without actually initiating the chant. In other words, it is the means by which the subconscious repeats a chant, when the mind is preoccupied by the routines of daily life. Such a skill is achieved only through constant practice. The benefit of chanting is that when faced with a trying situation, our subconscious slips into a mental chant, which we suddenly realize. Catching ourselves chanting subconsciously, makes us aware of our body’s aim for a free and peaceful mind. This results in our quick gain of detachment from the exigent situation. Chanting is an absolute mean to overcoming many of life’s daily challenges. It builds inner courage and self-esteem while, additionally, strengthening our spiritual focus. Chanting is an essential practice in helping us achieve a one pointed focus, which ultimately benefits our success in meditating.
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Guillen hits brisk 57 in club T20 Browne fell for ten as one of two wickets for former Barbados and West Indies left-arm fast-bowling all-rounder Ian Bradshaw, who conceded just seven runs off four overs. Title holders CGI Maple, with West Indies fast bowler Kemar Roach in their side, lost to new Sagicor General Super Cup (50-over) champions Sagicor Life UWI by six wickets at Trents. Maple, who were also beaten by UWI by six runs in the Super Cup
final at Kensington Oval last Sunday, scored 137 for six off 20 overs after winning the toss. UWI, spurred by brisk knocks of 54 not out from veteran Floyd Reifer and 48 by his cousin and fellow Combined Campuses & Colleges first-class player Raymon Reifer, romped to victory with 11 balls to spare. (CMC)
Three day/night matches in five ODIs for WI
BRIDGETOWN -- Justin Guillen, the T&T and West Indies ‘A’ opening batsman, hit a brisk half-century for his adopted Barbados club CounterPoint Wanderers, who brought off a thrilling one-run win off the very last ball against LIME in the opening round of the Barbados Cricket Association Sagicor General Twenty20 tournament on Saturday. Left-hander Guillen, who first played club cricket in Barbados for ESA Field Pickwick in 2005 when they won the Division 1 (now Elite) championship before joining Wanderers three years later, made 57 off 34 balls with six fours and three sixes at
No. 3 in a total of 147 for six off 20 overs at Wildey. LIME, with current West Indies selector and former Barbados captain and West Indies wicket-keeper/batsman Courtney Browne in their line-up, needed 60 runs off the last five overs. With 11 required from the last over, they ended on 146 for seven. Burly left-hander Ryan Nurse, better known as a former Barbados fast bowler, struck 30 off 19 balls with three sixes and one four at No.5 and the unrelated Ashley Nurse, a West Indies T20 player a couple years ago, also made 30 at the top.
DHAKA -- West Indies will play three Day/Night matches among the five OneDay Internationals against Bangladesh during their tour here which starts next month. The Day/Night ODIs are the last three on December 5, 7 and 8, all in Mirpur, which is also the venue for the only Twenty20 International under lights on December 10. The venues for the first two ODIs on November 30 and December 2 are to be confirmed. Fixtures November 8-10: TBC v West Indies, Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protisthan Ground, Savar 13-17: 1st Test – Shere Bangla Stadium, Mirpur 21-25: 2nd Test – Sheikh Abu Naser Sta-
dium, KhulnaVenue TBC 28: v Bangladesh Cricket Board XI, Sheikh Abu Naser Stadium, Khulna 30: Ist ODI – Sheikh Abu Naser Stadium, KhulnaVenue TBC December 2: 2nd ODI - Sheikh Abu Naser Stadium, KhulnaVenue TBC 5: D/N 3rd ODI – Shere Bangla Stadium, Mirpur 7: D/N 4th ODI – Shere Bangla Stadium, Mirpur 8: D/N 5th ODI – Shere Bangla Stadium, Mirpur 10: D/N – Only T20I Shere Bangla Stadium, Mirpur (CMC)
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Official upset by Shillingford’s omission from Windies “Picking up ten wickets in a match against Australia is a feat in itself. One would like to think that Shane Shillingford would have been on the front burner of West
Indies selection and I cannot really comprehend why Shane Shillingford was left out of the team for the tour of Bangladesh.” (CMC)
West End Sports & Cultural Club Inc. 25th scholarship and community awards
ROSEAU -- Former Windward Islands manager, Tom Lafond, says he is stunned by the omission of off-spinner Shane Shillingford from the West Indies 15-man squad for next month’s tour of Bangladesh, and believes insularity is creeping back into regional selection policy. WI selectors announced the squad last week, with Guyana left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul as the only new cap but with Shillingford excluded. According to the outspoken Lafond, the non-inclusion of Shillingford cannot be justified. “I am definitely very surprised. I am really flabbergasted. I got flabbergasted when I heard the team,” Lafond said. “I could not believe that the selectors could leave out Shane Shiillingford from a tour of Bangladesh or even Sri Lanka for that matter since that is the kind of bowler that you need on these kinds of wickets. “To have selected Permaul ahead of Shane to me is a travesty. Additionally, when I look
at the team and I see that Kirk Edwards is recalled, it leaves me to believe that we are going back to the days of insularity, and that is one of the concerns that I have.” The 29-year-old Shillingford has emerged as the regional side’s frontline spinner in recent times, getting ahead of Guyanese leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo and Barbadian left-arm spinner Sulieman Benn in the pecking order. Following a near twoyear hiatus to reorder his bowling action, Shillingford returned to international cricket with success earlier this year against the touring Australians, picking up 14 wickets in two Tests. This included a 10-wicket match haul before his home crowd in Dominica in the third and final Test, which West Indies lost by 75 runs. “I cannot believe that the selectors would have the nerve in this day and age to leave Shane out of the team after he performed so admirably against the Australians,” Lafond continued.
Cindy Ramkumar Reporter TORONTO -- The West End Sports & Cultural Club promotes activities which combine Caribbean culture with the Canadian mosaic, provides role models for youth, nurtures good relations among the Caribbean and other ethnic communities and works extensively and exclusively within the community with underprivileged families, youth, cultural and sports organizations. The club recently held a Black Tie Dinner and Dance event celebrating the 25th Anniversary on October 13, 2012. The event begun with Ms Bianca Gabriel (President) welcoming dignitaries and guests. Mr. Pat Brereton (Past President and Founder) led the event with a prayer. Dignitaries in attendance were as follows; Dr. Vidyha Tota-Ma-
haraj - Trinidad & Tobago Consul General Officer, Karen Stephenson - Consul General of Grenada, Seth George Ramocan- Consul General for Jamaica, Joy Edwards representing the Peel Region Chief of Police, and MPP Bob De Laney. • The Scholarship recipients were Ms Ayana Nilaja Bolden, Ms Faith Sky Cuffy • Bursary Recipient was Miss Aisha De Coteau • Special Award Recognition to Two Grade 9 Honor roll Valedictorian students Mr. Jared Bolden and Sherese King. This award was sponsored by Lawyer Don Bodkin. Past 2005 Scholarship Recipients, Mr. Jonathan Hood, addressed the new Scholarship recipients with his motivational speech. The history of West End Sports & Cultural Club “who are we” and “what we have done in 25 years” was inserted into the program. Dignitaries and guests were entertained by M.C. Mr. Stanley Gittens and music was played by DJs. Bad Lad of Toronto and Mr. Desmond of Wack Radio from Trinidad.
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TORONTO CARIBBEAN
Caribbean Pot: Chinese style fried chicken
Chris De La Rosa Contributor Ingredients 1.5 cups light soy sauce 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger 1 chicken (about 4 lbs) Vegetable oil for frying Notes: You can add a 1/2 teaspoon of Chinese five spice powder to the marinade for extra flavor and a little finely chopped scotch bonnet pepper will add the “wickedness” to everything. You’ll also need the juice of a lime or lemon to wash the chicken. Wash the chicken with cool water and lime or lemon juice, drain and pat dry with paper towels. Then place in a large zip lock bag and place the bagged chicken in a bowl which can fit in your fridge. So in the event of a leaky bag, you won’t have a mess in your fridge. All you have to do now is pour in the soy sauce and grate the ginger directly into the bag. Squeeze out as much air as you can as you seal the bag.. then massage the entire chicken so the marinade gets up-close and personal with the entire bird. Allow the now seasoned chicken to marinate in the fridge overnight. The next day, remove from the fridge and allow
to come back to room temperature as you heat the oil for frying (get it to about 325F). Using paper towels, dry off the chicken so we won’t have any liquid causing problems when we introduce it to the hot oil. When the oil is hot (med/high flame) gently added the chicken to it. Depending on the size of your chicken, it can take between 40 and 50 minutes to cook all the way though and get you that lovely crispy skin. If you’re using chicken pieces, it should be fully cooked after about 25 minutes. Place the fried chicken
to cool on a cooling rack in a baking tray. So the excess oil will drain into the tray. Since we’re using soy sauce to marinate the chicken, you may find that the chicken may turn out to be a bit salty (why we went for light soy sauce). You can certainly rinse the chicken with cool water after marinating overnight to help with that, but the sort of salty base is what’s unique about this fried chicken. Get some Hoisin sauce and the sweetness will work as a good balance for the chicken. Don’t forget to have some good Caribbean pepper sauce ready as
well. Important: Use a deep pot when frying the chicken whole and make sure you have enough room to add the chicken to the hot oil and prevent spilling or overflowing oil. You can go to my website at http://caribbeanpot.com/chinese-style-fried-chicken/ for more details on how to prepare this lovely fried chicken.
TORONTO CARIBBEAN
Mindset, motivation and visualization
Monique Bartlett Contributor Having the right mindset, fueled by clear motivational goals, is equally and perhaps even more important than diet and exercise! Simply put, when your head is in the right place, the rest just follows naturally. You can know everything there is to know about nutrition and exercise, but it won’t get you very far if your mind is not where it needs to be. So how do you get your head in the right place? This is probably the toughest
battle you have to overcome. People say that you have to really want something in order to achieve it. I don’t disagree with that statement however desire, even intense desire, may not be enough. Desire can be a great impetus for change, but it isn’t usually enough to take you the distance. You can really want to be fit and healthy but the desire for a lean, healthy body has to be so strong that there is no way you would ever be content with anything less. Desire is great but as soon as the pressures of work, school or life closes in on you, desire is not enough. What is missing is the power of goal setting. Setting clear, specific and vivid goals is the fuel that keeps desire burning. Probably the best advice I can give regarding writing out goals is to take time to make them very specific, personal, emotional and vivid. Goals help you truly understand your reasons for
getting fit and healthy. Motivation fuels desire and when you make your goals very specific and vivid, it’s easy to remember and visualize them. Visualization can be absolutely critical to your success. Mentally imagine your ideal body. Imagine how you would look, feel, move, etc. in a variety of situations. For example, when you first start working out, you may be so out of shape that you tired quickly. Instead of focusing on how you feel in that moment, start visualizing how you would feel exercising once you were fit, strong, powerful and energetic. When you do this it will help you to pick up the pace and push past the pain and fatigue. The impact will be profound. It literally may change the way you see yourself and compel you to be the person you see in your mind.
Why is Calcium important?
Trish Browning Contributor Calcium is one of the most important and abundant minerals in the body. Besides providing the skeletal structure for bones and teeth, calcium plays a key role in many other day-to-day functions of the body. Calcium is important for the normal clotting of the blood, the conduction of nerve impulses, and the contraction and relaxation of muscles and blood vessels, as well as the regulation of body fluids, including hormones and enzymes. In fact, calcium is so important that your body has a feedback system to maintain calcium at a constant level. Whenever the blood and bodily functions need more calcium, it is pulled from your bones, where it is stored. Your body can’t make its own calcium, so the only way to get enough is to eat calcium-rich foods. And if you don’t get enough calcium in your diet, you can end up with weakened bones, increasing the risk for
fractures later in life. If you have a calcium deficiency, you may experience the following: Muscle Cramping: Muscle cramping can be an early sign that you are developing a calcium deficiency. These types of cramps generally occur at night, especially in the legs. Dry Skin and Brittle Nails: When your skin becomes dry and your fingernails become brittle (break easily), it could be form a lack of calcium. If these symptoms are present, you may also want to check to see if your teeth are becoming yellow. The teeth and the bones can be severely affected from a lack of calcium. Increased PMS Symptoms: A woman may begin experience more cramping or a change in her menstrual flow if she is suffering from a calcium deficiency. Adding more calcium to a diet may ease these symptoms. Bone Fractures or Breakage: If you begin to suffer from several small bone fractures or full bone breakage, you should really evaluate the amount of calcium in your diet. This is a severe symptom of calcium deficiency. Calcium is needed to build bones and to keep them strong. Without this calcium, our bones will become weak. As they weaken, fractures and breakage can occur.
The importance of visiting the dentist on a regular basis Dr. Matthew S Weekes BSC DDS MTh DMin
Contributor “I brush my teeth 2-3 times a day. Why should I visit the dentist on a regular basis?” A 45 year old man asked this question when he came to our office stating that he was having sharp pain whenever he brushed his teeth and drank cold water. I examined his mouth to determine the cause of the pain and took x-rays to help diagnose the problem.
I observed that the gum around several teeth had receded and the roots were exposed and worn down. The surface of the roots appeared light brown. A normal healthy tooth has a whitish hard substance (enamel) on the crown and a thin hard substance (cementum) on the root. Underneath these two substances is dentin which is brownish and porous. There are miscroscopic tubules in the dentin through which nerves run from the soft pulp (nerve center). When the enamel or cementum is scraped away by vigorous and over aggressive brushing usually with hard brittle toothbrushes these nerve endings are irritated. Also cold and hot water may seep into the tubles. The end result is pain. This case is typical of many adults who have been brushing their teeth for many
years back and forth with a hard brush. Brushing and flossing is essential for maintaining healthy sound teeth surrounded by healthy bone and soft tissues. However it is important to always use a soft toothbrush and a proper technique. The motion is mainly up and down. Flossing must accompany brushing since the floss removes food particles that promote harmful bacteria in areas that the toothbrush cannot reach. The prevention of gum disease (gingivitis) or periodontal disease resulting in loss leading to pyorrhea can be prevented by daily flossing. Those that identify with this case should use a soft brush with desensitizing toothpaste and visit your dentist for guidance, evaluation of the problem and treatment.
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12 Wednesday, October 24, 2012
TORONTO CARIBBEAN
Immigration matters: New rules in effect for Canadian citizens on November 1, 2012
Marva Kollar Contributor October is Women’s History Month in Canada, the bicentennial anniversary to honour our veterans who served in the War of 1812, Canadian Citizenship Week and a host of other historic events celebrating heroes and heroines who fought the battle while the younger generation “won the War”. Indeed, a very proud moment for newcomers who sworn or affirmed the Canadian Citizenship Oaths at special Citizenship Ceremonies in national events held across Canada during Canadian Citizenship Week 2012. Also a great time to reflect on our rights and responsibilities as Canadian Citizens which goes far beyond being granted Canadian Citizenship status or welcoming newcomers during the Canadian Citizenship week of October 14th. While October is theoretically a historic month in Canada, our everyday mentors and role models not mentioned in Canadian history books are also heroic Canadian Citizens. For example, our grandparents, sitting by the fireplace in the family room or at a family reunion who often retold the story of their historic path from their homeland, endured a courageous Permanent
Residence battle before obtaining Canadian Citizen Status. Decedents were later granted Canadian citizen status as a result of their bravery, a prestigious and world class status passed on for generations to come. As Canadian Citizens, our rights are observed in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms such as: language, equality, mobility, legal, democratic (right to vote), freedom of religion, freedom of expression, freedom of assembly and association, etc. However, with rights come responsibilities, some of the most common are: obeying Canada’s laws, respecting the rights and freedoms of others, and respecting Canada’s two official languages of English and French. It is therefore not entirely surprising that effective November 1, 2012, Permanent Residents between the ages of 18 and 54 who wish to obtain Citizenship in Canada must meet new language requirements to become a Citizen of Canadian by proving their proficiency of listening and speaking in Canada’s official languages and meeting level 4 of Canadian’s Language Benchmark (CLB) or Niveaux de compétence linguistque canadiens (NCLC). Test results in English or French are acceptable from institutions designated by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) or other post education institutions; etc. “Complacency is the enemy of progress” and holds true for many newcomers who often settle within their cultural community for years communicating only in
their own mother tongue. Nonetheless, new language requirement will allow for greater community interaction and may even allow Canadian Citizens to exercise their responsibility of volunteering in the community to welcome newcomers, engage them in conversations in our official languages and help newcomers to better understand Canada’s values, history, symbols and institutions.
For many, becoming a citizen of Canada may become one step more challenging however, those challenges can be eliminated by contacting a knowledgeable Authorized Representative to assess whether you meet the new Canadian Citizenship selection requirements and address any criminal prohibitions which may require immediate attention.
Read this or go bankrupt!
JG Francoeur Contributor The world of business development has shifted in a major way in the last six months and if you don’t adapt you may very well go BANKRUPT! As my devout followers know I’m a HUGE advocate of marketing automation. Actually, I’d go as far as to say I’m FANATICAL about marketing automation because I’ve seen how it can help companies double their sales and triple their profits! However, in the last six months, I’ve experienced first hand a shift in B2B and B2C sales… I can no longer rely heavily on email marketing to convert leads into prospects. I’ve had to integrate a multi-media approach! Here’s the problem! 1. Too many people are using ONLY email to market their business 2. Too many people do not have strict enough spam policies and as such consumers are skeptical of email marketing 3. Email open rates have dipped so low its ridiculous (industry wide) Here’s the opportunity! 1. If you integrate a multi-media
approach to your marketing campaigns you will stand out beyond the clutter and it will impact your response rate (in a good way!) 2. Use paper! Direct mail, if done properly, is showing to be very beneficial. Let me give you an example; we do seminars all over the world (I just came back from a world tour where we did 15 seminars in 20 days in 5 different countries) and in the past we would only rely on an email confirmation and email to send instructions for registrants. We have recently changed our approach to include a piece of mail and a phone call and we’re seeing this work very well because the correlation of those mailed and those attended is over 80% in some cases! The BIGGEST Opportunity 1. Pick up the phone! My recommendation to all of my clients is to rely more heavily on the phone. If you integrate a good phone campaign mixed with paper and email marketing automation you will have a winning combination that is surely to pull better than just email! 2. Yes using the phone is more expensive than automated email marketing but the question is not what is the least expensive you should consider the ROI instead of just looking at costs. If an email campaign will yield two clients and cost say $50 but a multi-media campaign will yield 20 new clients and cost $250… even though the costs at 5x as much, the yield of customers is also 10x as much creating a situation for exponential growth!
TORONTO CARIBBEAN
Your Horoscope - October 24th 2012 Aries Horoscope (March 21-April 20): Whether at work or play, you should find yourself motoring along well through the weekend. Thursday and Friday, stay flexible. On Saturday and Sunday, remain goal-oriented. Scorpio month, starting Monday, begins a more productive negotiation track or money chase. Relationship bonds can strengthen now, too. Monday through Thursday, there’s a goal to reach. You should find that your dedication produces substantial results.
Libra Horoscope (Sept. 23Oct. 22): At work or at play, Thursday and Friday keep it fresh and motoring right along. Use the weekend to prioritize family and home projects, and to get better organized and back on track. Starting Monday, it’s time to make a fuller commitment to your self-improvement and getahead mandates. Stay goal-oriented, and by next Thursday you should find you’ve accomplished more than usual.
Taurus Horoscope (April 21-May 21): Mercury and Saturn are already in Scorpio and, as of Monday, the sun will get there too. What does this mean for you? Regarding financial and relationship ambitions, it’s power-play time. It’s absolutely necessary for you to better your best or push the envelope. What do you want and what do you need? Go get it. Next week, potentials are optimal.
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct. 23Nov. 21): It seems you have plenty on the go and even more to look forward to. Monday through Thursday, the stars can bring it together for you very well. Optimize opportunity, don’t waste it. Put creativity and ambition to work, forge new inroads, use your persuasive acumen, or negotiate a better bargain or contract. Mid next week could bring a successful completion, a surpassing, or an auspicious launch.
Gemini Horoscope (May 23June 20): Whether it’s social, educational, or a first date, Thursday night keeps you well entertained. Friday through Sunday, minimize expectations and output. Scorpio month is the time to invest your all in making the necessary financial, relationship, and personal turnarounds. Make a fresh start on Monday, and by the end of the week you’ll have something significant to show for it.
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov. 22-Dec. 20): Mars in Sagittarius will provide you with plenty of fresh fuel through mid November. On Thursday and Friday, the Sagittarius moon keeps you flying at it. As of Monday, you’ll naturally shift your attention away from what’s going on “out there” to what’s going on “in here”. The week ahead can crystallize, manifest, or conclude something of significance. A potential or solution may present itself.
Cancer Horoscope (June 21July 20): Although you question whether you can keep yourself going and whether you should, look to the coming week’s supportive stars to help you to pull it together. Saturday can be a push-past or renewal day. Monday through Thursday, the sun in Scorpio is empowering and opportune. You’ll harness enough stamina to persevere, reach the goal, or create relief and achieve better effectiveness.
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec. 21-Jan. 20): On Thursday and Friday, stay in research-andstudy mode and allow yourself ample time to get a better feel for the best-case scenario. As of Saturday, it’s time to get things going. Over the next week, you’ll work your way to a significant goal post, threshold crossing, or finish line. Things should come together easily, naturally, and well.
Leo Horoscope (July 21-Aug. 22): On Friday, renew a commitment or vow, stick to the plan, or restate where it’s at for you. On Saturday and Sunday, conserve your resources. As of Monday, it’s time to take it to a deeper level. Better progress can be made in the week ahead, thanks to the energized stars. Stay motivated, plow through, and by Thursday you should see a solid gain. Virgo Horoscope (Aug. 23Sept. 22): Friday keeps your ambition and hopefulness going strong. The stars will continue to provide encouragement over the next week. Facilitating stars now help you to get yourself under better control. This will translate into an easier go of relationships too. As next week progresses, you should feel you have something of tangible worth to show for your dedication and effort.
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan. 21-Feb. 18): Thursday and Friday are your best days to reach out and touch someone. By Saturday, it will be time to slow it down and/or rein yourself in a little more. As of Monday, it’s time to get down to serious business. Invest yourself, and by Wednesday/Thursday you should meet with reward, results, acknowledgment, or approval. Pisces Horoscope (Feb. 18-March 20): As of Thursday, you’ll get going in a new direction or find yourself with something added to consider. Through the weekend, you’ll check off or figure out even more. Next week, you should feel that the stars are favouring you—they are. You’re in for a smooth go; accomplishment and opportunity are yours for the taking.
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14 Wednesday, October 24, 2012
TORONTO CARIBBEAN
Highway 407: A lawful way forward
Tammy Flores Contributor My previous column discussed two of the three specific “lawful” options available to Premier Dalton McGuinty in the contract between the Province of Ontario and 407ETR to bring an end to spiraling tolls and inadequate customer service. Unfortunately, during its first term in power, Premier McGuinty’s government pursued an “unlawful” option to control tolls and, consequently, suffered repeated defeats in the ensuing litigation process through arbitration and the courts. I appeared as an unpaid, expert witness on behalf of 407ETR during this litigation process. As a face-saving tactic, the government entered into a settlement agreement on March 31, 2006. No new restrictions were imposed on 407ETR’s ability to increase tolls after years of expensive litigation. Essentially, Premier McGuinty raised a white flag in his dispute with 407ETR. These days when asked to comment MTO spokespersons are scripted to say, “407ETR is a privately held company, and has the contractual right to set toll rates to manage traffic on Highway 407.” Fortunately, the settlement agreement does not restrict the Province’s ability
to pursue “lawful” options to control tolls as there exists a third “lawful” option that rests in the middle of the spectrum between “Respecification” and the overriding power of the Crown to repudiate contracts by specific unambiguous legislation. It is an option that fully conforms to the governing agreements and legislation. Consequently, it should mitigate any concerns around a “chilling effect” on foreign investment in Ontario infrastructure projects or in the economy in general that may arise if the Province was to exercise its right to repudiate the contract. If 407ETR and its private-sector owners can exercise the provisions of the governing agreements and legislation to their benefit (i.e., maximize profits and shareholder dividends through ever-increasing tolls), surely they can’t begrudge the Province of Ontario for exercising those provisions in the contract that are to the benefit of Ontarians. What’s good for the goose is good for the gander. When I testified in 2004, I prefaced my comments with the Latin phrase, ceteris paribus. This phrase is literally translated as “with other things the same,” or “all other things being equal or held constant.” The governing agreements and legislation were drafted to take into account a potential need to recalibrate or reset the deal between the Province and the private operators subject to certain criteria. That criteria is now within reach of government of Ontario. Given the inability of the Province’s senior civil service, lawyers and consultants to properly advise Premier McGuinty on how to best control tolls, I have previously offered to share this third option
with the government of Dalton McGuinty subject to the government acknowledging the value I’m bringing to the table. Advice that is capable of providing extensive benefits (i.e., no less than $1 billion) to users of Highway 407 (e.g., lower tolls in the future) and municipalities (e.g., property tax revenue) through which the Highway 407 lands run or revenues recoverable to reduce the massive provincial deficit. As reported by Robert Benzie of the Toronto Star on March 22, 2011, “Premier McGuinty says he’s “all ears” to a proposal that could return $1 billion to Ontarians from the owners of Hwy. 407...We are very much open to sitting down and having some of our
representatives meet with this individual and hear from him any ideas that he might have.” While there has been no follow up by any government representative subsequent to the Premier’s public comments more than one and a half years ago, I remain, as I have always, prepared to move forward in good faith with the Province of Ontario in a manner that promotes the broader public interest and appropriately rewards expertise in a knowledge-based economy. 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.