Different & Dynamic. Bigga, Brighta, Betta! Volume 11 • Number 17 • December 20, 2017 • Website: www.CaribbeanGraphic.ca
Tel: 647-669-9320 • Fax: 416-292-2943 • Email: graphiclyn@gmail.com
Santa Drops In To AFEY’s 13th Annual Christmas Party Santa was in town in grand style at the Advocates For Etobicoke Youth (AFEY) 13th Annual Children's Christmas Party. The Party was held at the prestigious Woodbine Banquet Hall on Saturday December 9. More than 600 hundred kids decked out in their Christmas party outfits were feted by Hurban Johnson and a steelband. The steelband played Christmas music, mostly Caribbean style, while each child was provided with a sumptuous and delicious lunch. There were games and face painting. The highlight was Santa’s much anticipated arrival on site at which point all of the children rushed to greet him. Each child met Santa individually, had their photograph taken and was given a gift wrapped toy. On the way out the children were also each given a bag with other goodies. This event started back in 2005 with about 100 kids. It has grown over the years to this magnificent party. AFEY was jointly
founded in 2004 by prominent Toronto Lawyer, Dhaman Kissoon and Superintendent Ron Taverner of the Toronto Police Service. The organization has grown from strength to strength impacting the lives of well in excess of 1,000 children each year. When asked why? Kissoon answered "it is from our strong desire to give back to the community". Many politicians from all levels of government were present to witness this magnificent affair.
A Good Time For All At Rudy Lochan’s Annual Christmas Party The Federal Government of Canada’s Minister of Science Kristi Duncan, Toronto Ward I Counselor Vincent Crisanti and popular Guyanese-Canadian poet Peter Jailall, were among the scores of appreciative guests who attended Rudy Lochan’s Centum Anava Mortgage Financing December 17 Annual Christmas Party. Held at the attractive 80 Esther Lorrie Drive’s Recreation Centre, the annual party, which Lochan has been hosting for several years now, featured a curry duck and pepperpot inclusive sumptuous buffet, as well as a generously stocked open bar. There was also some
very enjoyable sing along entertainment, provided by impressively talented performers, which ensured that a good time was indeed had by all. In her brief remarks to those present, Minister Duncan thanked Lochan for his demonstrated generosity in continuously hosting the annual party. It is she said a most obvious testimonial to his outstanding benevolence towards his clients and community. Photo Caption: Peter Jailall, Minister Kristi Duncan and party host Rudy Lochan.
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CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC
Volume 11 • Number 17 • December 20, 2017
Terry Sawh, Dr Narendra Singh Raising Funds To Help Dominica’s Princess Margaret Hospital The Caribbean island of Dominica, home to
McIntyre- previous head of the Paediatric
73,000 people, was a beautiful island
Department at Princess Margaret Hospital
renowned for its lush green rainforest, 365
and Dr Jillian Lewis- Dominican
rivers and many waterfalls and lakes. She
Neonatologist, in light of the success of the
was aptly named the 'Nature Island of the
Guyana Help the Kids model, to assist with
Caribbean'. On September 18 2017, the
rebuilding the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
country was decimated by Hurricane Maria.
at the Princess Margaret Hospital.
There was extensive damage to
They have made it their personal challenge
infrastructure, including the Princess
to assist with this project. The aim is to
Margaret Hospital, the main hospital on the
provide technical and medical expertise
island. Most departments have been
through the efforts of Guyana Help the Kids
rendered completely nonfunctional as a
and its board members and other interested
result. Among the affected, sadly, are tiny
parties. However funding to purchase
premature and critically ill infants who are in
equipment such as IV pumps, monitors,
urgent need of neonatal support services to
ventilators, incubators, bassinets etc is
improve their chances of survival.
urgently needed.
Mr. Terry Sawh, President of Topnotch
This is a highly worthwhile project that
Employment Services Inc. and Dr. Narendra
deserves everyone's support. Every bit
Singh,Chief of Staff at Humber River
counts. For further information:
Hospital and President of Guyana Help the
https://www.gofundme.com/rebuild-the-
Kids, have been approached by Dr Rhonda
neonatal-intensive-care
Norman Sue Bakery Ltd.
Thanks for your loyal and much appreciated continuing support.
Volume 11 • Number 17 • December 20, 2017
CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC
Guyanese-Canadian Reggae Artiste Making Waves! I am known but I am still not known,” said Alwin Nurse, a Guyanese- Canadian Reggae/Dancehall recording artiste who has not only been making waves with his music on the international scene, but has gained recognition for performing with some popular artistes over the years. Essentially, Nurse, whose recording name is Negus, exists to do all things music. But his exceptional musical talent, which is extensive, is still evolving. Back in the day he performed alongside several Jamaican artistes including: Beenie Man, Buju Banton and Red Rat. He even collaborated with yet another Jamaican artiste, Konshens, to produce a provocative dancehall track 'Dah whine deh' in 2013. In fact, Negus has more than 50 songs to his name. Although he was producing songs long before that, it might have been his collaboration with the Jamaica artistes that really gave him the nudge in the right direction. Although grateful for the recognition that came with the collaborations, Negus said that it came with the realisation that many were under the impression that he was a Jamaican artiste This was in spite of the fact that he was born and raised in Guyana. Negus recalled growing up in Middle Road, Albouystown, Georgetown. He attended the St. Pius Primary School but by the time he was seven years old he was living between Trinidad and Guyana because of family circumstances. However, about a decade ago he took up residence in Canada. Negus revealed that throughout the years he has had an ingrained desire to be involved in music – a passion he might have inherited from his father, Kenneth Nurse, aka Small Man, who was the manager for Mingles Sound Machine. Among Negus's most popular tracks, which can be found all over the internet, are Believe in Yourself, Rat Race, Love You Forever, Act Crazy and many more. Some of these were produced by entities in Guyana. He was making the final arrangements to produce a video for his latest single – 'Nuzzle-Up' which is yet to be officially released. But according to the 35-year-old, although he hails from Guyana and is familiar with many local DJs, he has been receiving much more airplay and push from Jamaica, other Caribbean Islands and Canada too.
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Caribbean Jewel
Amazon Jewel: This Guyanese beauty models one of the Amazon Section costumes from Genesis, Guyana's new Carnival that will be held in the South American Republic come next May. Carnival lovers here will get a glimpse of all of Genesis' outstanding costumes at its scheduled January 27, 2018 Toronto Launch.
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Carnival In May, Good For Guyana’s Tourism! Plans have been announced for Guyana to host a Caribbean type costumed carnival this coming May, as part of the country’s 2018 Independence celebrations. In the direct words of its private organizers, “Guyana’s May 18-27 Carnival will be a premium experience fused with the flavors of Guyana and the Caribbean creating the perfect ambience for carnival chasers, tourists and locals to celebrate!” The privately owned festival is being developed as an amalgamation of Guyana’s influential entertainment bodies, the Government and other key stakeholders, to create a new exciting product as a boost to tourism. It is targeted to attract thousands of tourists, locals and carnival chasers “daring to indulge in something new and exciting.” Targeted overseas-based attendees can view Guyana Carnival as an adventurous opportunity to experience a perfect post winter getaway by discovering Guyana’s unspoilt beauty, replete as it is with fascinating sites, tours and memory making experiences. The Carnival will also offer its fair share of entertainment celebrities and dj’s, joining forces to deliver new experiences to fete lovers. All inclusives, concerts, cooler fetes, breakfast parties and boat rides will all be on offer. So too will be a paint and mud J’Ouvert, providing all those so inclined with the opportunity to be “stink and duty,” while getting on wild and wassy through Georgetown’s city streets during fore day morning. As any J’Ouvert lover will readily attest, there is simply no sweeter experience than making merry mas while the sun comes up and a new day is dawning. For those who prefer participating in the much prettier costumed mas, Guyana’s Carnival will be staged under a single band themed Genesis. As Guyana’s premier Carnival band, Genesis will offer unforgettable, allinclusive, experiences rivaling those of other international carnivals. Genesis is committed to providing its masqueraders with fabulous costumes from superb carnival designers with both local and international origins. Genesis will be comprised of five sections under the following banners: El Dorado, Stabroek, Roraima, Kaieteur and Amazon. The organizers are expecting each of the Sections to attract in excess of 300 masqueraders. As a tourism development generated event Guyana Carnival will be significantly different from the
c o u n t r y ’s a n n u a l M a s h r a m a n i celebrations, which are held in February as a Republic anniversary celebration. Over the years Mashramani’s emphasis has tended to be on corporate and government agency floats. Although there are also usually some costumed bands, the numbers have been relatively small and the actual costumes not in any way overly impressive. As someone who had actually suggested the “May Mas”conceptual development of a carnival as a tourism development initiative for Guyana, almost three years ago, I am now of course extremely delighted that someone has finally taken the required concrete steps to make it a reality. As any first time venture, Guyana Carnival can expect to receive its fair share of challenges. The idea however, has sufficient merit to receive the full support of all concerned, especially the government, route servicing airlines and the hoteliers. In addition to providing its muchvalued assistance to the Guyana Carnival organizer ’s marketing efforts, the Government should also take steps to use its influence to add some celebratory attraction clout to the event. As the “half-Guyanese” self-confessed carnival lover that she is, the Government should perhaps make a concerted effort to have Rihanna not only attend the Carnival but also play mas in one of the Sections, as she invariably does each year for Barbados’ Crop Over. Her status as an Official Barbados Tourism Ambassador may present some conflict of interest hurdles to her participation in such a suggested manner, but I am sure that in the spirit of cooperation that supposedly now exists between the respective tourism agencies of the two countries and given their mutual membership of the Caribbean Tourism Organization, something can be worked out. So too should the Guyanese-born renowned,Trinidad based, retired Mas Maker Supremo of Barcelona Olympic Games fame, Peter Minshall, be invited to have some celebrity official functioning role during the Carnival. I am sure that there are others, Eddie Grant comes to mind, whose celebrity presence might help to significantly boost the numbers of those who will plan to not only attend but also actively participate as masqueraders. Guyana Carnival, a concept long overdue, Here’s to its every success.
Strictly Laurels & A Pet Peeve Dart This is now that magical. Much anticipated, Christmas time of year for sharing love and goodwill. As such, except for the venting of one small generic pet peeve, we shall endeavor to maintain the spirit of the Season by issuing just Laurels and no specifically targeted Darts. A most deserving Laurel to Centum Anava Financing Mortgage Broker Rudy Lochan for the December 16 hosting of his annual Christmas party. Attended as it was by scores of appreciative guests from all walks of life, including two prominent community politicians, a poet, some Real Estate practitioners and a couple of well known media types, it was a highly enjoyable evening. Lots of good food, a well stocked bar and sing along entertainment ensured that a “good time was had by all!” Well-done Rudy. A Laurel too to well known Community Lawyer Dhaman Kissoon, for his quarterbacked hosting of the Santa attended thirteenth Annual Advocates For Etobicoke Youth (AFEY) Children's Christmas Party. We are sure that each and every one of the scores of kids who were invited to attend would have thoroughly enjoyed their experience of meeting Santa. They would also have appreciated receiving a gift direct from the Jolly fellow, so soon before Christmas Eve. Thanks Dhaman for your highly commendable efforts towards making Christmas that much brighter for so many kids. Last but now least a twin Laurel award to the dynamic duo of Terry Sawh and Dr Narendra Sawh for their fundraising efforts, towards proving badly needed medical supplies for the Queen Elizabeth hospital in hurricane ravaged Dominica. It’s heartening to note that two individuals that are as well established as they both are have found it necessary to dedicate their time and efforts to such a worthy cause. Hopefully the outstanding example of generosity that they have set will be followed by many others, so that the campaign can indeed receive the level of support it undoubtedly deserves. Finally by way of a generic Dart, as kids growing up, we were always thought that it is very bad manners to wear a hat while seated at a dining table. Noting peeves us more therefore, than to have to observe at almost every community Dinner Gala we have ever attended the invariable tendency for some ill-mannered bozo to show up in a hat and keep it on while dining. Just the other day at the annual Enbridge Christmas Party, held at the prestigious Le Parc Banquet Hall and attended by almost 400 splendidly attired guests, who should show up in a “reago” Kongul hat, but one of the few “Brothers” that were invited. Maybe for 2018 the more classy oriented female members of our community should ensure that this practice becomes less repeated. Hosting organizations should also consider including on their Gala Dinner functions ticket invitations “dress code in effect, no hats allowed!” Seasons Greetings To All!
CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC The People’s Paper, daring to be different. Website: www.CaribbeanGraphic.ca Tel: 647.669.9320 • Fax: 905.813.9403 Email: graphiclyn@gmail.com
Volume 11 • Number 17 • December 20, 2017
Publisher/Editor: Contributors:
Legal: Accounting: Graphic Design:
Tony McWatt Selwyn Baboolal, Chef Phillip Hendricks, Dr. George Traitses, Mala Rambharose, Rudy Lochan, Sanjay Patel, Cherry Khan Oumarally and Baboolal Haroon Gafur Julie Rambali, infiniteLinx.ca
Volume 11 • Number 17 • December 20, 2017
CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC
www.CaribbeanGraphic.ca • Page 5
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Volume 11 • Number 17 • December 20, 2017
Park Hyatt St Kitts Voted Best New Hotel In The Caribbean
2018.
D: 905-266-1381 | C: 416-346-8883 | M: 905-605-7400 TF: 1-855-354-6600 | Fax:1-888-766-7484 Highway 7 / West of Kipling: 5451 Highway 7, Suite 206, Woodbridge, ON L4L 0B2
isa.rahamat@manulifesecurities.ca | manulifesecurities.ca
BASSETERRE, St Kitts, Regional resort developer Range Developments has won the ‘Best New Hotel in the Caribbean’ award for its first project, the Park Hyatt St Kitts, which opened in November. This comes on the heels of Range Developments picking up the prestigious ‘New Hotel Construction a n d D e s i g n Aw a r d ’ f r o m t h e Americas Property Awards 2017 for the Cabrits Resort Kempinski, currently under construction in Dominica. The St Kitts resort also won the prestigious Best New Hotel Construction and Design St Kitts and Nevis award at The International Property Awards 2014-2015. It also
won the coveted award of Best New Hotel Construction and Design in the Caribbean 2014-2015. The latest award was announced at C a r i b b e a n J o u r n a l ’s a n n u a l Caribbean Travel Awards. “It’s hard to think of a more significant hotel opening in the Caribbean in years than the debut of the Park Hyatt St Kitts,” said the judges. “This world-class property, set on the south-eastern peninsula of St Kitts, is the first Caribbean hotel for the Park Hyatt brand. And this 126-room hotel, has not only immediately made the island of St Kitts into a new global destination, it also sets a new standard for Caribbean hotel design and luxury.”
Happy Holidays May your Holiday Season be blessed with Peace, Love and Joy. My sincere thanks to all my Clients, for your loyalty throughout the past year. Looking forward to hearing from you next year. Sincerely, Zorena. “Helping Clients with all their Real Estate and Mortgage needs!” Fast Home Equity Loans: 1st & 2nd Mortgages. Debt Consolidation. Get Cash, Pay Back Taxes Renovations, Mortgage Arrears.
Volume 11 • Number 17 • December 20, 2017
CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC
Jamaica Govt. To Relinquish Control Of Norman Manley Airport
KINGSTON, Jamaica, The divestment of Jamaica’s Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) in the capital, Kingston, is scheduled to be completed by June 2019. The disclosure was made by President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Airports Authority of Jamaica and NMIA Airports Ltd., Audley Deidrick. Outlining the stages that have been completed so far, he said that earlier this year, eight bidders were prequalified for the transaction, and the bidding stage was launched in June. Since that time, “we had a major bidders’ conference in September, where five of the eight bidders showed”, he said. Deidrick explained that the bidders went through a series of presentations, and the enterprise team fielded questions from them and heard concerns and issues they wanted contemplated in the transaction. Deidrick told local media that the final draft of the concession agreement is being vetted by the enterprise team, to be sent back to the bidders after review by the team, the lenders and the Cabinet.
Seaon’s Greetings to all our valued customers Merry Christmas from the Marville Team
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Volume 11 • Number 17 • December 20, 2017
MP Edgehill Suspended For Four Sittings GEORGETOWN – Opposition Member of Parliament Bishop Juan Edghill was On December 12 suspended for the next four sittings of the National Assembly in Guyana, following “gross misconduct” the previous day. Minister of Social Protection Amna Ally successfully tabled the motion on the heels of Edghill refusing to leave the Chamber. The sitting was suspended yesterday after Edghill, a member of the main opposition People's Progressive Party (PPP), refused to leave the chamber even after Speaker Dr Barton Scotland ordered the Sergeant at Arms to eject him from the session. The Speaker's order followed Edghill refusing to take his seat when the time agreed for the examination of the budget for the Ministry of the Presidency had expired. He continued to argue with the Speaker, insisting that more time be given. When the Speaker ordered the Sergeant-at-Arms to remove Edghill and police were called in to assist, opposition legislators formed a circle around him to prevent his removal.
Thanks to all our customers for your unrelenting support over the years. We look forward to your continued support in 2017. Happy Holidays to you and your loved ones.
The sitting was subsequently suspended. Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman said that government was concerned about the Opposition's growing disrespect in the National Assembly. He described the incident as “a fast slippage into disorder” and said the Opposition's actions took the National Assembly to its lowest ever. When the session resumed and Ally moved the motion for Edghill's suspension, the Speaker agreed, noting that such a short suspension was “the most lenient” punishment given the opposition MP's actions. Scotland said Edghill had “behaved in an extraordinary manner”. In support of their colleague – who had been prevented from entering the National Assembly by police – the PPP MPs left the Chamber, but subsequently returned. At a press conference called after Edghill's suspension, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo said the PPP would continue to take part in the remainder of the Consideration of the Estimates to ensure scrutiny of Government spending.
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CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC
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Guyana Poised To Benefit From Sustainable Tourism Guyana is well poised to use Sustainable Tourism for development since it takes into account the current economic social environmental impact and addresses the needs of visitors and host communities, this is according to Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Country Economist Dr. Mark Wenner. At a recent event hosted by the Guyana Tourism Authority, Dr. Wenner noted that Sustainable Tourism will require much more effort and resources but the reward will be great. He drew attention to the features that will allow Guyana to attract tourists who indorse sustainable tourism. “Given these natural riches, plus a largely agrarian base of the economy, and a rich diversity of ethnic and racial groups Guyana is well suited to attract those persons interested in nature based adventure, rural and ethnographic tourism,” Dr. Wenner said. He noted that the country has the potential to “attract those who want to observe and photograph wildlife, who want to hike fish, camp, kayak a boat, dive, mountain climb, trek, mountain bike rally across the country in vehicles, white water raft, visit working farms and ranches, attend agricultural festivals, attend ethnic and religious festivals, indulge in wellness activities and visit indigenous communities as well as historical sites.” Webber said, when compared to other Caribbean territories, Guyana is blessed with much more land-based diversity, and a wider range of possible outdoor activities. He recommended that like Costa Rica, New Zealand and Botswana, Guyana should follow sustainable nature-based and rural tourism.
Merry Christmas and a Most Prosperous New Year to all our Clients and Friends.
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CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC
Volume 11 • Number 17 • December 20, 2017
New FoodMaxx Supermarket Opened At Giftland Mall * Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers already under agency contract.
Aubrey Langhorne, Sales Representative Cell: 416.303-7338 | Bus: 416.494.5955 Email: aublangh@rogers.com
THINKING OF SELLING OR BUYING? With 41 yrs + experience, I can assist you.
Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year to all my valued clients and friends. Thanks for your continued support.
The Giftland Mall has added the FoodMaxx Supermarket to its portfolio. The superstore, located on the bottom floor of the Giftland Mall, Plantation Pattensen, Turkeyen, features a number of local produce on sale including cuts of meat and healthy meals prepared daily. It was officially opened on Sunday December 10. The $1B supermarket, currently employs over 100 persons, and when fully operational, some 300 will be employed. Delivering the feature address was Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, who congratulated the Beepat family on showcasing their confidence in the local economy. “Roy Beepat has bought to G u y a n a s o m e t h i n g t h a t i s n e w, innovative, something that has put us now in a different standard of integrated business, and for that, he deserves appreciation for his confidence and for
his business acumen”, Prime Minister Nagamootoo said. Addressing the subject of local content, Prime Minister noted that when Beepat shared the idea with him of providing a local market for local produce, he thought “of a businessman that not only thinks about doing suitcase training.” He further explained that, “Too many people are busy importing rather than creating a market for local producers… and we have to constantly advertise ourselves.” The Prime Minister described local as good and stimulates in Guyanese a sense of who we are. Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin said the Giftland Mall is a perfect example of “Investors’ confidence in the economy,” and encouraged Guyanese to consume more local products, thereby creating a demand on the market.
Volume 11 • Number 17 • December 20, 2017
CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC
Carnival In May, Good For Guyana’s Tourism! In the flurry of packing for a vacation or business trip, it’s easy to get carried away and pack every¬thing but the kitchen sink into your suitcase and carry-on. But over-packed luggage and improper lifting and carrying techniques are common causes of injury to the back, neck and shoulders. The good news is many of these injuries can be easily prevented. The following tips can help take the pain out of your vacation: When shopping for new luggage, look for a sturdy, light, high-quality and transportable piece. Avoid purchasing luggage that is too heavy or bulky when empty. Choosing a bag with wheels and a handle can go a long way to lighten your load. A good quality backpack with adjustable, padded shoulder straps and a waist strap makes an ideal carry-on because, when worn properly, backpacks can evenly distribute weight. Over-packing is an easy pitfall, but consider that the larger and heavier the luggage, the more susceptible a traveler is to neck, back and shoulder injuries. Try to only pack what you absolutely need. When possible, place items in a few smaller bags, instead of one large luggage piece. Ensure your carry-on luggage does not weigh more than 10 to 15 per cent of your body weight. Keep the contents of any carry-on luggage to a minimum, pack heavy items at the bottom of the bag and make efficient use of the bag’s pockets. Lifting your luggage can’t always be avoided, even if your luggage has wheels. But practicing safe lifting techniques can substantially reduce your risk of injury. Move slowly and, whenever possible, break the action into smaller parts. For instance, when loading a suitcase in the trunk of a car, try lifting it first onto a chair or step-stool, then lifting it into the trunk. Similarly, when placing luggage in an overhead com¬partment, first lift it onto the top of the seat. When lifting your luggage, first get close to the load and stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Bend at the knees and let your leg muscles, rather than your back, do the lifting. Hold the load close to your body. Avoid twisting. Instead, turn your feet in the direction you are headed and turn your entire body in that direction. Do not carry bulky luggage for long peri¬ods of time. Make sure to check heavier items when traveling rather than carrying them for the duration of the trip. Try to carry light pieces in each hand rather than a single heavy item on one side. If using a backpack, use both shoulder straps and the waist strap, and adjust them to minimize the bag’s movement. If using a duffel or shoulder bag, switch sides often to reduce strain.
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WISHING YOU THE WARMTH OF THE CARIBBEAN FOR AR CHRISTMAS AND THE NEW YE
CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC
Volume 11 • Number 17 • December 20, 2017
International Students - How does the Strike by College Teachers Affect your Status? Do You Need To Extend Your Stay In Canada? Every year thousands of Students choose to come to Canada to further their studies and experience our culture. For most International students who came to Canada to study starting the fall of 2017, they were given an unwelcome surprise when College Instructors in Ontario went on Strike for five weeks, making it the longest College Strike in Ontario History. Most Colleges will extend the semester by a week or two, in order to make up for the lost time. Immigration normally give some additional time on student permits (maybe a month beyond the end of your studies). However, it is important to check the expiry date of your Study Permit. Note that the date on the “Visa” in your passport may not be the same as what is on the Immigration document issued to you when you landed in Canada. You are allowed to remain in Canada until the Expiry date of your Student Permit. If your permit is expiring before the end of your studies, you will need to apply for an extension of your stay from inside Canada. You will need to obtain a letter of enrollment from the College you are attending, in addition to showing that you still have financial support available for the duration of your studies. Once your application is submitted before the expiry date of your current status; you have “Implied Status” until you receive a response from Immigration. Your application may either be submitted online or mailed in. Please ensure that you include the applicable forms, supporting documents and fee payment.
Volume 11 • Number 17 • December 20, 2017
CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC
Parental Mortgage Transfers
Baby Boomer downsizing is emerging as a niche industry. The proven practicality, simplicity and feasibility of ditching the larger home for a smaller and more manageable residence is enticing more North Americans to take the plunge every day. What’s more, the Baby Boomer generation, which is the secondlargest group of homebuyers (31%) behind Millennials (35%), is downsizing with more creativity and thoughtfulness than ever. As a result, more and more Baby Boomers are selling their residences to their children to enjoy the benefit of keeping the home in the family while simultaneously achieving their goal of downsizing. The following are different strategies available to those wishing to downsize by having their children take over their existing mortgage. Sale and Leaseback One of the most popular options available is a sale and leaseback, where the children purchase the home from their parents and the parents subsequently rent a portion of the home or the entire residence. This option allows the sellers immediate access to their home equity while the children benefit from tax deductions that result from owning a rental property. Another sale and leaseback scenario would be where one or more of the children buy their parents' home to occupy as their primary residence, while the parents downsize to an inlaw suite within the home. If multigenerational living seems like an appealing idea, this may be the most feasible option. Equity Gift For many homebuyers, the biggest challenge they face is coming up with enough money for a down payment. If a homeowner’s children
wanted to purchase their home, the homeowners have the option to give their children a gift of equity, whereby the children would be able to purchase the home with very little money down or none at all. This scenario makes most sense if the parents sell the home without incurring any brokerage fees or closing costs, thereby utilizing the savings as an equity gift for the down payment. If both parties agree on a purchase price below market value, the difference could also be utilized as a gift from the parents to their children. Refinance Another option the homeowner has is to transfer the property to the children via a refinance rather than a purchase and sale. In this case, the parents can add one or more of their children to the home title so the children can make mortgage payments. After a certain period of time (approximately one year), the mortgage can be refinanced solely in the children’s names, removing the parents from the title altogether. This process can be executed via a rate-and-term refinance. If the parents want to extract money, then the refinance will be a cash-out. For many Baby Boomers, transferring a home to their children has many benefits. It allows them the potential opportunity to downsize, access home equity, create a multigenerational living environment and help their children become homeowners without breaking the bank. While there are many benefits associated with this type of property transfer, there may also be some disadvantages. The homeowners may be able to sell their home for a higher price if they choose to list it on the open market with a broker rather than transfer the property to a family member. Also, the home may be in need of some repairs depending on its age, which could potentially create some headaches for the children if they decide to take ownership. In any case, it would be wise to consult a financial planner, attorney and other associated experts before making a final decision. Source: Investopedia
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Volume 11 • Number 17 • December 20, 2017
CARIBBEAN KITCHEN Best wishes for Christmas and the New Year
Garlic Pork A Must For Christmas Nothing beats the smell of garlic pork being fired on Christmas morning and as may Guyanese will readily attest, the Holiday Season just isn’t the same without it. For the uninitiated Garlic Pork is a Portuguese dish that was brought to Guyana and some parts of Trinidad also. It’s a quick and easy home cooking recipe that your family will enjoy.
Ingredients 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
3 – 4 lbs lean pork 2 pt apple cider vinegar (you may use regular vinegar; apple cider vinegar reduces the acidity) ½ lb garlic 1 bunch fine thyme 6 – 8 wirri-wirri peppers 4 – 6 cloves 4 tsp salt (or to taste)
Instructions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Cut the pork into suitable pieces, say, 1 in long x ½ wide x ½ thick. Steep the pork in a solution of ¼ pt vinegar and water, then remove the pork pieces, and put in a large jar or bottle. Pound the garlic, peppers and thyme. Add to the rest of the vinegar with the salt and clove. Pour this mixture over the pork, making sure that there is enough liquid to cover completely. Leave to soak for 3 to 4 days, or longer if possible. Use as desired. Preparation: In a pan, put the pork with very little of the vinegar liquid and leave to boil until liquid evaporates. Fry the pork, in the fat that was melted during boiling, until brown. Serve hot with homemade Guyana bread
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CARIBBEAN GRAPHIC
www.CaribbeanGraphic.ca • Page 15
New Contracts For Windies Cricketers
West Indies players will be offered more flexible and enhanced contracts, including exclusive retainers for Test and limited-overs cricket, according to a new Cricket West Indies policy. The highest-paid category will be for players who feature in Tests and ODIs, with a maximum retainer of over US $300,000 including match fees. The four-man selection panel, led by Courtney Browne, has shortlisted players for every category, which is expected to be made public soon. The new contract policy is one of CWI CEO Johnny Grave's visions for the board, along with the previouslyannounced amnesty. The policy has three levels, and will initially last for nine months. The new contracts will be offered on July 1, 2018, at the same time as the domestic retainer contracts. The contracts have been split into three categories. Category A will comprise players who play predominantly Tests and ODIs. Category B will be for only Test players, while Category C will cover players featuring in only ODIs and T20s. ESPNcricinfo understands six players have been offered first batch of white-ball contracts (Category C): Carlos Brathwaite, Jason Mohammed, Evin Lewis, Rovman Powell, Ashley Nurse and Kesrick Williams. According to Grave, CWI will keep player remuneration private and confidential. He also highlighted that a player contracted in Category A can earn over US $300,000, independent of domestic T20 deals, while players in other contract categories will also stand to earn six-figure retainers. Reports indicate that the dollar value of the new retainers are more than double the previous highestearning contracts that have been offered to players in the
past three years following the abandoned 2014 tour to India. Under the previous contract arrangement, players were contracted for one year only. A category A contract was worth US $140,000, Category B US $120,000 and Category C US $100,000, with highly reduced match retainers that were redirected to pay domestic players in the revamped Professional Cricket League. Although CWI has not confirmed this, it is understood that individual match fees for ODIs and T20s (reduced after the 2014 abandonment to US $2500 and US $1500), will now be US $5000 and US $2500 per match respectively. Grave said that another significant decision CWI was taking was extending the existing Memorandum of Understanding with the West Indies Players' Association (WIPA) by another year. Grave further explained why only six players received Category C contracts, highlighting they were solely chosen by the selection panel. " None of West Indies' high-profile players have been offered contracts yet. Chris Gayle, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Kieron Pollard, Darren Bravo, Dwayne Bravo, Marlon Samuels, Samuel Badree and Darren Sammy will all be offered pro-rata contracts based on their performances in the upcoming series in the short term. Grave is currently in Auckland to meet the West Indies players to explain the details of the various contracts and address their concerns. Both Grave and Adams agreed with the selectors that the main priority is for West Indies to qualify for the 2019 World Cup, and players will need
to commit to that task ahead of T20 tournaments like the Big Bash League and the Pakistan Super League. The Big Bash League starts from December 19 and runs till February 4. The PSL will begin from February 22. The Regional Super50 falls between the BBL and the PSL - from January 31 to February 24, ending a week before the World Cup Qualifiers, scheduled to begin on March 2. Grave said CWI will be as flexible as possible in allowing players to play T20 Leagues, but the priority must be to play for West Indies. "Considering the importance of Qualifiers right now, that will take priority over a player's individual needs, so I'd imagine if players seriously want to be part of World Cup plans they will play Super50." According to Grave, the amnesty will soon lapse, and the players will be told about the minimum number of domestic matches they are expected to play in order to qualify to play for West Indies.