table of contents 03 About iinta 06 Dynelle Rhodes of The
Weather Girls
13 Fierté Sudbury Pride 20 Planning Your Spring
17 Cuisine
Routine
24 Beauty of Essential Oils 29 SAR 32 Automation
60
46
SAR - Aviation
LGBTQ+
37 Black Forest Milk
Chicken
43 Hope Springs Eternal
12
iinta Free Speech
40
55
6
iinta Music
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 2
WHO IS IINTA? Welcome to IINTA Inc., a hub for anyone with a taste for creative arts, sports, music, business, cuisine, fashion and more. iinta's Marketplace offers a wide range of products within multiple categories and several vendors. Our monthly release of iinta Magazine features renowned musicians and athletes along with in-depth articles pertaining to literature, travel, wellness, beauty, business, wine and more!
CULTURE ZEST THE FINER THINGS EXCLUSIVES MARKETPLACE
*The views and opinions contained within subjects, content, information, data and imagery does not necessarily reflect those of iinta, iinta’s staff, or iinta’s affiliates. This article is not intended to be a replacement for medical diagnosis, information or treatment, etc. ALWAYS see your medical provider. For full disclosure statement, please visit our Disclosure Page.
IINTA MAGAZINE |
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 3
iinta Magazine Upcoming Events & Features IINTA MAGAZINE |
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 4
IINTA ARTISTS
SUDBURY
IINTA PRESENTS
PLAYING FOR CHANGE 2022 IN SUPPORT OF THE HUMAN LEAGUE ASSOCIATION & SUDBURY-MANITOULIN CHILDREN'S FOUNDATION
Coming Summer 2022 www.iinta.ca IINTA MAGAZINE |
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 5
Coming Soon to iinta Magazine IINTA MAGAZINE |
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 6
Culture MUSIC
THE WEATHER GIRLS DYNELLE RHODES: CONTINUING THE LEGACY BY ALBERT SMITH
by Jennifer J. Lacelle
All photos provided by Dynelle Rhodes. IINTA MAGAZINE |
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 8
Who hasn’t heard the saying, ‘it’s raining cats and dogs?’ Usually, it means there’s a heavy downpour of rain outside with overcast skies. But what coms to mind when you hear, ‘it’s raining men, hallelujah, it’s raining men?’
Harvey Fuqua (producer) created their duo and they became known as Two Tons o’ Fun. The name changed after the release of It’s Raining Men. The ladies subsequently changed the name of the duo to The Weather Girls and ended up signing with Columbia (label).
No doubt, you sang those words out! The classic hit (It’s Raining Men) was released in 1983 and nearly 40 years later the song is more popular than ever with people from a massive range of demographics knowing all the lyrics.
In 1991, original pair split up as Wash went on to try a solo career. RhodesArmstead decided to give her daughter Dynelle a call and ask her to join the team.
Musically Inclined The Weather Girls Originally, The Weather Girls were the power-duo of Martha Wash and Izora Rhodes-Armstead. Both women were naturally talented and sang in their church choirs growing up, but were also trained to sing. Initially, they were part of NOW (News of the World) — a gospel group — before joining Sylvester (died Dec 16, 1988). The American performer was a disco singer and transvestite who became known for wearing feather boas and sequin gowns. It was Wash who auditioned for the singer and when asked if she knew of another plus-sized singer, Rhodes-Armstead came to mind. The pair ended up becoming his back-up singers for a number of hits until Sylvester’s producer realized people were paying attention to the ladies.
IINTA MAGAZINE |
Dynelle Rhodes clearly stems from a very musical family, but it goes far beyond that of her mother’s talents. Rhodes mentions her grandfather, grandmother, her father and her aunts as all being singers. Rhodes recalls being told by her mother that as a young child she would walk around the house constantly singing. She, herself, sang in the church choirs growing up and recalls often leading the songs. “If you can’t sing, I don’t think they’ll let you lead too many songs,” Rhodes laughs heartily. Often, they would travel to various churches to perform on special occasions at different churches. Her uncle was a choir director and that provided ample opportunity to do this traveling.
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 9
As Rhodes grew up, her musical tastes generally stayed the same but the music itself changed. But the road her life took and the stories that make up her own tale have also played an important role to music she chose to listen to. The music evolved as she did. Despite all this roaring talent, Rhodes never imagined being a singer. Instead, she thought she would become a secretary. She says she was very good at it then but now you couldn’t pay her enough to do it. “I loved typing,” she laughs.
By Ulrich Wolf
Outside of the influences of her family, the secular musical interests she had include Aretha Franklin, Phoebe Snow, Billie Holiday and Sarah Vaughan. But even to this day, The Poetry Man by Snow is her ultimate favourite. Having always been drawn to ballads and songs with stories, the song’s softness and harmonies continues to be alluring to Rhodes. Though, she says, it’s also in the vocal delivery of the song that captivated her. “To me, a song has to say something, it has to mean something,” she says.
IINTA MAGAZINE |
She joined Lockwood Elementary as a secretary, her enjoyment of organization and planning coming into full swing. The same year she got the position, she was pregnant with her son and received a call from her mother about joining The Weather Girls.
Filling the Shoes “I thought she was joking,” says Rhodes. “Momma, stop pulling my leg.” In fact, it wasn’t a joke! Her mother insisted that she come join her so Rhodes says she grabbed her clothes, her baby and took a leave of absence from the school. That leave of absence turned into never going back.
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 10
Touring with the group wasn’t new to her as the first time she travelled with them they did the Eddie Murphy tour in 1985 (before she was officially a member). As an official member, her first was called Best Disco in Town. She mentions another tour with other acts, such as the Gibson Brothers and Evelyn Thomas. Rhodes says her debut as a weather girl was in a club called Sweetwaters and she recalls being a “nervous wreck.” Wash’s shoes were big ones to fill and the woman could hit high notes Dynelle’s voice didn’t quite reach. “You have to have a lot of nerve and balls to fill her shoes,” Rhodes says. “My mother, she knew I could do it.” They rehearsed over and over again until they were sure it was perfect and the day of the show she was told to “sing your little heart out” and that all would be okay. The Weather Girls received a standing ovation from the audience, and she’s been a weather girl ever since. As of May 2022, it will be 31 years. IINTA MAGAZINE |
All I have are good memories.” The group relocated to Europe in 1991 and have consistently performed sellout concerts and venues over the last three decade. Rhodes is residing in Germany permanently. Rhodes was able to perform with her mother for over 14 years before Rhodes-Armstead passed away in 2004. While being a professional singer had always been her mother’s dream, Rhodes is now carrying on the legacy.
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 11
“She lived a good life and I thank God for her,” says Rhodes. “And for the gift she left me to carry on singing music. I was the lucky one.”
The people, again, went berserk over the hit song. Rhodes loves seeing the audience lip-sync the words and know the lyrics.
Tours
“To this day, when you hear It’s Raining Men, you still see the people going crazy!”
The most unexpected aspect of touring is when the bus breaks down. Back in the day, you could be heading to a concert when suddenly the bus stops in the middle of nowhere and you simply have to wait for another one to come and get you. She recalls the crazy parts of having to sleep on the bus because they were too far from a hotel. Or even not being able to shower, instead, arriving just in time to perform, do the concert, and jump back on the bus without the chance to get cleaned up. While it didn’t happen often, it was always a surprise when it did occur. She says it’s simply a risk with touring and that it’s part of life to take the good with the bad. In 1995, her all time favourite concert was in Amsterdam in a super arena filled with 96,000 people! She recalls going from the floor all the way to the top on a lift and then began the classic hit It’s Raining Men. Simultaneously, men dressed in sailor suits were descending from the skies on ropes! In 2019, at another concert in Holland, 98,000 people gathered to watch them perform. IINTA MAGAZINE |
Legacy In July 2021, The Weather Girls released a new single, Pride Strong, with Jimmie Wilson and Alan Vukelic. Of course, in the midst of a pandemic, it’s harder to promote. “In general, it’s difficult to promote music independently,” Wilson says. However, the anthem song has been well-received by their audiences despite the pandemic stifling a lot of industries. Wilson says that Pride Strong is written in the same “vein” as It’s Raining Men as an anthem song, noting the infamous one is still in the top 10 list of gay anthem songs! Rhodes adds, “It’s an empowerment [song] and to be proud of who you are.” The Weather Girls and Wilson are currently in the studio planning out their next hits, a few new pieces and a couple of covers, and are hoping to complete them shortly. They’re also excited to be revamping It’s Raining Men and releasing this version into the wild world of music!
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 12
Literature LGBTQ+
I feel more represented than I have in my entire life.”
Fierté Sudbury Pride by Jennifer J. Lacelle
Workplace discrimination against Mary Ross brought together a group of 300 people in Sudbury, Ontario back in 1997 to fight for equals rights of those in the Queer community. It was the city’s first pride march. All Photos Provided by Fierté Sudbury Pride. IINTA MAGAZINE |
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 15
This is how Fierté Sudbury Pride began, and they’ve been growing over the past 25 years into a vast community that helps people no matter their sexuality, gender identity/fluidity, ethnicity, age, income, etc.
Community The current (interim) Chair/President of FSP is Katlyn Kotila, 22-years old, who volunteered to look after the role when the previous leader needed a break. Before that, Kotila was the Communications Lead (20192021). She never intended to volunteer when she first attended Pride Week in 2019. Kotila found herself so amazed by the event that she went to the coordinators and community to tell them as much. “Wow, I really have to compliment you,” she recalls saying. “I’ve been in Sudbury my whole life and I never met people who felt like they understood. I feel more represented than I have in my entire life.” At the time, Kotila hadn’t ‘come out’ in her personal life. Generally speaking, there are many people (particularly youth) who feel fear about showing themselves as they are. Quite often, harsh results follow them when they reveal their true selves: homelessness, abuse, and being shut down by family or friends. IINTA MAGAZINE |
It’s not an easy life, which makes community all the more important. “They know what it’s like to have an identity that’s not known by society,” Kotila says. “For me the best part is being community and getting to know these people on a personal level and being involved in something bigger than myself.” After attending the Annual General Meeting, same year, she thought, “what the heck?” and put her name forward for the Communications Lead role with FSP. She was only 19 at the time but she carried out the two-year term. Part of her role was helping with the organization of Pride events and running the social media. They were planning for a big pride event for 2020, but ended up having to go online where they managed to complete two full online informative panels, showcase music from Queer artists, and send out pride packages for youth all from a distance. Now, as the interim Chair/President, Kotila’s role has expanded and she’s enjoying every moment of it. Due to COVID, most of the in-person affairs cannot be completed and FSP has swapped over to online and hybrid (a combination of virtual and live) models.
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 16
However, Kotila is seeing the positive in this as it allows FSP to reach even more people through the hybrid model. It gives people more access to enjoy the same events from the safety and comfort of their own homes. “We want to make sure everything we’re doing is community [driven],” Kotila says.
The Bigger Picture Taking an expansive look at North America, there are now millions of people who identify as members. In Canada alone, one million people identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. However, despite the growing numbers of people who are finally able to speak their truths, the work is hardly done. According to statistics, hate crimes jumped by 41 per cent from 2018 to 2019 with over 263 reported cases. Between 2007 and 2016, the average number (annually) was closer to 141 (according to the Toronto Police Services). The top four demographics targeted, accord to TSP (2016), were members of the LGBTQ+, Jews, black people and Muslims. The hate crimes committed against these individuals, in relation to sexual orientation, have been some of the most brutal.
IINTA MAGAZINE |
Kotila also makes note of this viciousness, saying, “While we’ve seen not as much violence in certain areas, there’s still a lot of violence in certain areas. Black-trans women have been murdered and beaten and attacked in very violent ways.” In Canada, nearly 500 youth (10-24 years old) die from suicide. While it’s hard to determine accurate statistics, since many remain ‘in the closet,’ it’s estimated that youth within the LGBTQ+ community are 33 per cent more likely to attempt suicide than the general population in that demographic.
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 17
There are also statistics indicating that those within this community are more likely to be of a lower socioeconomic status. It was discovered in an Ontario-centralized study that half the trans population in the province earn less than $15,000 a year. Mental, and physical, health issues generally stem from past traumas (abuse, bullying, etc). Members of the LGBTQ+ community are at higher risk of depression, anxiety, phobicdisorders, substance abuse, suicide, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.
community or haven’t created a safe space for them.
Resolutions? For Kotila, education is an important advancement that needs to start happening within society. She says there’s a deeply imbedded homophobia in our culture. Children learn from a young age that being different is considered “bad” and it’s time for that to change.
“We have to do extra things to stay safe,” Kotila says. “It starts to eat at you and it affects our daily lives.”
Part of society’s way of life has been to encourage heterosexuality as the norm, and it’s so deeply engrained and nuanced that it teaches those who may be different to “feel ashamed.”
Without resources, people aren’t able to get the help they need. Kotila says there are many within the Queer community who consult one another to find doctors or therapists who are safe to visit. The reason is that many medical professionals still refuse services to members of the Queer
“Most of the time I’ve noticed those who are reluctant just don’t know any better,” she says. “So, they don’t actually know what it’s like. Until they are directly impacted by it in some way, there’s a lack of understanding… but the way we combat that is through education.”
IINTA MAGAZINE |
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 18
Eliminating the stigma around homosexuality is also part of the education process society needs to undergo. Once stigma has been removed, it opens the doors to allowing people into welcoming atmospheres where they can actively participate in the conversation. It’s also more than providing members of the LGBTQ+ seats at the tables, though that’s an important step. But to actually hear the words they speak and to value their input, critique, and thoughts is a must! However, Kotila doesn’t believe it’s entirely up the Queer community to fight for the change. Everyone needs to be equally responsible, though she says the members of LGBTQ+ will continue fighting for equal rights.
Outlook for 2022 Pride Week for 2022 is July 11 – 17th.
IINTA MAGAZINE |
Kotila says that they’ll likely be sticking to the hybrid model for their Pride events this coming year, but encourages everyone to participate. Anyone who is interested is welcome to reach out to them through their social media (Facebook, Instagram), website, or email. “Don’t be afraid to get involved,” she says. FSP is currently undergoing a few changes to their operating management, so there will be more opportunities for volunteers to get involved. Of course, no one is obligated to disclose their orientation or identity and she also strongly encourages allies to step up. “If you’re willing to be supportive and welcoming and help us, you’re welcome!”
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 19
Finer Things WELLNESS & BEAUTY
PLANNING YOUR SPRING ROUTINE BY ANNA RHYMER
EDITOR JENNIFER J. LACELLE FEB 17, 2022
Everyone waits for green grass and buds on trees with baited breath every year with insurmountable excitement. Spring is a time for new beginnings, fresh resolve, a time where we are organically invigorated by Mother Nature’s blessings. It is also a time of year that many of us cringe at due to the fact that we aren’t physically in the position we
would like to be… and about to be forced to don shorts, tank tops, and the fear some bathing suit. Unfortunately, many of us, in colder climates especially, tend to hibernate and bunker down in the dark and cold winter months of the year. This strategy does not lend itself to confidence going into the spring and summer seasons. IINTA MAGAZINE |
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 22
Yet, in the dead of winter it’s so terribly difficult to motivate ourselves, with no end of cold in sight, despite knowing that it will creep up on us quickly in the coming months. How can we plan and prepare for spring better? How can we avoid procrastinating until that time is upon us? We can start now! In March, and April, before we are trying to play catch-up. The days are still short, the air crisp and cool and this is a time of year many people are contemplating lacing up the sneakers and resuming their daily walks, jogging and outdoor activities, but we also tend to keep pushing it off, waiting for milder times. Well, here’s the fun thing about “pre-spring.”
When The best time to get outdoor exercise is when the temperature is around 0°C. Who wants to run or powerwalk at 25°C after a hot and humid day? No one. At 0°C, within five minutes of moving your body, you’re at the perfect temperature to get cardiovascular and pulmonary function increased without feeling the labour of heat to add to your plight. At this time of year, you can put layers of clothes on and peel them off as required during exercise. We don’t have that luxury in the heat of IINTA MAGAZINE |
summer, nor do we have it in the dead cold of winter. From a mindset standpoint, breaking the hibernation vibe, getting outside and moving your body will release endorphins that encourage us to continue, and best of all, give our bodies the excitement and physical gains we need to keep on going far before the summer season is upon us. There are also many outdoor activities that warmer weather brings as options that we often don’t take advantage of, namely because most people don’t think outside the box. I’ve always been an advocate for “sneaky exercise.” In other words, doing fun things that are actually exercise without us feeling like we are doing “work.” How about renting fat-tired bicycles for biking through trails in the bush? How about signing up for a stand-up paddleboard session for balance and core strengthening? What about gathering a group of friends to go for a walk and hike and picnic at your favourite local park? Why not try canoeing or kayaking at your local canoe club? There are many things most cities and communities offer, but people often don’t have time to look into them or don’t make the effort to take advantage of them.
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 23
If people only picked one of these activities each season to spice up their activity repertoire, they may find the love of their life in an activity that’s never been tried before. The worst-case scenario is we try something new, have a bunch of smiles, get a bunch of exercise, but don’t integrate it into our daily life forever. Only wins here no matter how the pie is sliced! One of the most important components to good health and wellness, especially coming out of the winter months, is the mind. Often people lose energy in the darker, shorter days of winter. Of course, the cold weather doesn’t help energy levels. This is the most important time to build up minds to channel success and abundance in all areas of life. There are a few super quick and easy ways to do this with little effort.
Journal Putting pen on paper is a huge win. Take a few minutes every morning to write down whatever thoughts come into your mind. These could be stressors, anxieties, excitement, ideas or anything at all. Releasing negative energy by physically writing is a huge release in itself. Jotting down positive thoughts, emotions and ideas affirm them and make them a reality in your
IINTA MAGAZINE |
subconscious. Journaling doesn’t have to be complicated either, try two minutes or 20 minutes, whatever you have time for. It’s proven to be an amazing way to start the day in lieu of scrolling Facebook or reading news stories from mainstream media. Whether your writing is positive or negative its cathartic and therapeutic to get it out on paper.
Positive Affirmations “I am” statements can help in multiple ways. Write 6-10 of them on sticky notes and place them in a circle on your bathroom mirror. They should be projections of where you want to see yourself in 6- 12 months.
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 24
For example, “I am an amazing, patient and fun mother of two wellbehaved boys” or, “I am proud of my strong, fit and sexy body that enables me to feel great and love the life I dream.” You will want to look yourself in the eyes and say these things to yourself every morning and every night. It should take you a total of two minutes per day. Your subconscious will work behind the scenes to manifest these things for you. You may not believe them with your conscious mind but putting the vibration out there in the universe by speaking these words will attract these things to you. It will also give you an instant mindset pump up!
Meditation Many people say they don’t know how to meditate or don’t have time for it.
I am one of these people. What I’ve found that works for me is whether I have five minutes or 20 minutes, I open up YouTube and search: 7-min guided meditation for XYZ. The XYZ being whatever I’m feeling that morning: anxiety, positivity, abundance, relaxation, etc. Then YouTube populates a number of meditations appropriate to the search. Then quickly scroll down and rather than scrutinize each option, the first one that resonates with gets clicked on and executed. Don’t overthink it, make it quick and painless and trust the universe to guide me to exactly what I need at that moment. It’s difficult to quiet the mind, but the more it’s done the more the mind brings peace and joy. When considering health, wellness, fitness and aesthetics it’s often forgotten that these are an entire package. It is the mind, the body and the soul. Without this trifecta being continuously and consistently worked on, one will never achieve full and entire happiness. So, step outside of your comfort zone. Being uncomfortable with trying new things means that you are growing. Fear and discomfort are feelings to be nurtured knowing that these two things in particular will elicit positive change in your lives. Don’t wait for the next season, start feeling discomfort now. Carpe diem.
IINTA MAGAZINE |
ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 25
THE BEAUTY OF ESSENTIAL OILS BY NIGELLE FREDETTE
EDITOR JENNIFER J. LACELLE FEBRUARY 17, 2022
As winter comes to an end, a taste of spring fills the air. Streams will eventually start to run and nature’s bounty will revive itself from its state of dormancy. Sap runs through the trees and foliage colours the world with its vibrant shades and delivers its fruit to be appreciated by all living beings along with the extraction of its essential oils. This article will discuss amazing facts about natural oils; where they come from, the types of oils that can be used and how they can be a benefit to you. Essential oils are best described as plant extracts that are drawn from plants, flowers, seeds, leaves and more.
Oils Essential oils have been used over the centuries for various medicinal and fragrance purposes. In fact, Ancient Egypt was one of the earliest civilizations that used essential oils for medicinal and cosmetic purposes.
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 26
In years to follow, the use of aromatic oils became more prevalent in Chinese and Indian societies for their medicinal properties. Each essential oil has a unique composition of chemicals, which influence the aromas, absorption and effects on your body. Just like everyone’s body is different, the chemical composition in a plant also varies. In recent years, there has been an increased focus on the use of these liquids for various purposes. How can natural oils be a benefit to you? Well, it all depends on what you are trying to achieve. Let’s break it down to better understand the variety of ways that it can benefit your hair, face, body and mental health.
Aromatherapy The most common essential oils are those that are used in diffusers to disperse a particular fragrance in the air. It’s meant to assist with creating a calm, soothing, and de-stressing effect. This is best known as aromatherapy. When inhaled, the scent molecules in essential oils travel from one part of the brain to the emotional center of the brain. Sometimes, essential oils play an important part in helping with one’s mental health. One 2016 study revealed a correlation between
essential oils and their effect on improving the sleep cycle for college students, and how it helped to reduce anxiety and depression. A 2017 report suggested that several oils might have a positive effect on one’s mental health. The most common essential oils are lavender, bergamot, Yuzu, rose otto, roman chamomile geranium, sage, jasmine and rosemary. An interesting fact, according to researchers, is the estimate that around 43 per cent of people with anxiety and stress use some form of alternative therapy to help manage symptoms. It is, however, important to note that the use of essential oils should be used as a complementary therapy and not replace any current medications that may be prescribed to an individual with a mental health diagnosis. Make sure to consult with your doctor before making any necessary changes to your treatment plan.
Massage, Skin & Hair A masseuse might apply a few drops of wintergreen (diluted) to their oils so the skin absorbs the oil and penetrates the muscle (to loosen the tension). Furthermore, there are incredible anti-aging properties in essential oils that can be applied on the face to help moisturize the skin and over extended use, give your face a natural glow.
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 27
For instance, let’s look at the hair. In many cases, hair will sustain damage or weaken follicles from hairwashing, using heat styling devices, side effects from medication, and more. This might lead someone to consider the use of essential oils such as; Lavender, Peppermint, Rosemary, Cedarwood, Lemongrass, Thyme, Clary, Tea Tree and Ylang Ylang, to restore the hair follicle and promote hair growth. Additional benefits of essential oils have been associated with helping to reduce anxiety through their soothing, aromatic properties. As previously state, they can assist with nourishing the skin and regaining a natural glow, or stimulating the roots of one’s hair follicles. For example, tea-tree based is commonly used to for the scalp to increase the strength of your hair root and promote better hair growth. When it comes to skin, there are properties such as: antiinflammatory, regeneration, antiaging, and can even treat a variety of skin conditions, such as eczema or acne. In the end, there are numerous scientific studies that support plant oils as having significant positive effects on the skin and body by reducing skin aging, providing a protective barrier to help repair the skin, having an antioxidant effect, wound healing and more.
Final Thoughts Lavender oil has anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to lighten the skin, can be used to minimize the appearance of dark spots, blotchiness or redness. Cedarwood can be used for acne, while Frankincense can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. To conclude, research and clinical studies support essential oils’ benefits on the human body. Whether it be to rejuvenate or treat your skin, improve the regrowth and quality of your hair, and help you clear your mind from an anxious moment; essential oils have been a part of life for a variety of ancient civilizations and today, continue to prove to be effective. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the use of essential oils, which proper instruction manuals, research and recommendations from professionals. Your local spa(s) and natural product stores can help you in picking the essential oil that is right for you!
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 28
Zest AVIATION DOUBLE FEATURE
PAGE 23
SAR
WALK THE EARTH
SEARCH & RESCUE SPECIAL OPERATIONS
BY MICHEL TRESKIN EDITOR JENNIFER J. LACELLE DEC 29, 2021
Historically, Search and Rescue has always been around. In the early years, specialized equipment was nonexistent so people had to rely on whatever they was available to ensure the rescue was a success. One of the world's earliest welldocumented SAR efforts ensued following the 1656 wreck of the Dutch merchant ship Vergulde off the west coast of Australia. Survivors sought help, and in response, three separate SAR missions were conducted without success. IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 21
Divisions Today, SAR can be divided in specific categories: ground, sea, mountain, cave, urban and combat (DUSTOFF — Dedicated Unhesitating Support to Our Fighting Forces). Each category is made up of specialized professionals who have been trained to work in a specific area or field. In Canada, most SAR operations are carried out by the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). It doesn’t mean the CAF will be called every time someone requires assistance. It all depends where and how tragic the situation is. The local law enforcements are trained to also provide first level rescue with the help of local volunteers. They specialize on the ground (lowland) search and rescue missions. Civil Air Search and Rescue Association (CASARA) is a good example of volunteers whose primary role is to support Canada’s SAR program and promote awareness of the organization. These volunteers are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to assist the Canadian Air Force Search and Rescue Squadron. CASARA started in 1986 with its national office in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Throughout the years it has provided over 160K volunteer hours from over 2,000 members,
some of whom use their own private aircraft. The program offers specialized training for members who wish to become spotters or navigators. The Canadian Armed Forces Search and Rescue units’ run training programs across the country with their own personnel instructing. It’s a rewarding program for those who wish to be life savers.
Dangers In Divisions As for the Marine Search and Rescue, Indigenous volunteers who specialize in the marine rescue are mostly on the Canadian West Coast. Three of British Colombia’s coastal First Nations communities have received federal grants to enhance their training and Coast Guard Auxiliary boats.
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 32
Coastal First Nations communities are on the front line and usually the first to be at the scene and ready to assist the Coast Guard. True warriors with unlimited courage and dedication to saving lives. One of the most demanding and dangerous sections in SAR are those who are in a war theatre. The main vehicle for searching and rescuing downed airmen or evacuating the seriously wounded is the helicopter. The first helicopter rescue operation was performed in 1945 by a Sikorsky R5 using an experimental hoisting system saving all crew members from a sinking barge. Besides helicopters, close air support might be called upon to neutralize enemy positions and secure a corridor for the extraction of wounded. These brave airmen flying through
thick and thin and being shot at will never hesitate to complete the mission of saving a fellow brother at arms. Another dangerous SAR mission is cave rescue. Everyone remembers the rescue of 12 young Thai children who were part of a soccer team trapped in a cave for days. Tragically, one member of the rescue team lost his life during this rescue operation. Cave rescue is a very dangerous business and extremely unforgiving. For those who would like to become a rescue specialist, there are many specialized programs in Canada. Consider becoming a policeman, fireman or joining the Armed Forces as a rescue specialist. The Canadian Coastguard is another rewarding avenue to pursue if maritime missions are of interest. There is one thing that will be most satisfying for all those careers, saving lives!
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 33
AUTOMATION BY MICHEL TRESKIN EDITOR JENNIFER J. LACELLE FEBRUARY 1, 2022
Nowadays, everywhere you look, the world is turning to automation. Commercial buildings have automatic doors. Airports have fast-moving walkways (skyways) to help travellers move long distances inside terminals. Electric and hybrid cars have some form of automation built in, with some having full autopilot function where the car drives itself without any human input. Urban transportation such as subways, monorails and even road buses are becoming driverless. Robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) are being integrated in society at a very fast pace. Is it a good thing? Only time will tell. IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 34
Aviation is also turning toward the pilotless cockpit. The US military are flying combat drones all over the world and the navy division has even carried out pilotless aircraft carrier landings. They even have an airborne tanker aircraft for mid air rerefuelling that doesn’t require a pilot. Mind you, commercial pilotless flights are a long way from happening. It won’t be overnight but it is on the drawing board. The current crew of two is already being looked at because of the shortage of pilots in some parts of the world. The question is, can we reduce the crew by one? Can a large commercial airliner fly safely with only one person at the controls? Is increasing the automation the solution? The autopilot, patented in the 1930s, was designed to assist pilots during extended flights especially for the long-range bombers during WW2. It wasn’t designed to replace the pilot but to ease the workload by keeping their hands off the controls. Since then, the autopilot evolved into a very sophisticated system where it can land the aircraft when the weather is down to zero visibility. This procedure is called a Cat (category) III approach. The airport must be set up to be able to accept these types of approaches, but not all airports can accept these.
It has to be equipped with the right navigational aids and the approach lighting has to be of high intensity. Once the aircraft in on the ground, the auto brake system will stop the aircraft on the runway and the pilot will take control and taxy the aircraft to the gate. Special ground radar instructions will direct the pilot safely even with no forward visibility available. The biggest problem with automation is the pilot can become complacent by his dependence on the autopilot. Flying skills also tends to degrade due to the lack of practice. Unfortunately, most airline companies will want the pilot to engage the automation once the aircraft landing gear is selected up. The autopilot will fly smoother than any pilot around and therefore it is highly recommended to use it. The aircraft will climb to cruising altitude and navigate to the destination entered in the automation program. Once close to destination, it will descend automatically in the final portion of the approach where the pilot will disconnect the autopilot (usually around 200 feet above ground level) and complete the landing. It’s not unusual to see airline pilots flying — hands on — the aircraft little less than 30 minutes throughout the
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 35
whole flight. It doesn’t matter if the flight is 15 hours long. This practice becomes a safety issue if the weather such as a strong crosswind become a stressful factor. The lack of practice will degrade rapidly the flying skills of any pilot. The new flight schools’ policies are to teach students how to use automation at an early stage of training. Once they are in the multiengine phase, the training aircrafts are very sophisticated and equipped with moving map and full automation. The new generation of pilots are now trained with less time at the controls. It is not the best way to produce high caliber pilots like the older generations. Now bring in the debate of reducing the 2-man crew cockpit of a large commercial aircraft to only one person. ‘Houston, we have a
problem!’ You don’t need to be a rocket scientist to figure where the problem might arise. Incapacitation of the pilot needs to be thought of. It might happen! And then what? The ground controller presses on a red button and the aircraft automation takes over and lands the airplane! There are many scenarios that need to be looked at because it’s not that simple. What about the possibility of a system crash? Like on the ground side or even on the air side. Can we guarantee to the flying passengers that this set up is 100% fail safe? To be honest, I’m not sure. Smaller business jets are single pilot aided by automation and it seems to be working. Only time will tell but, in the meantime, I am pretty happy with two pilots in the front.
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 36
Finer Things CUISINE
Black Forest Milk Chicken Bacon, Turnip, Portobello and Brussels Sprouts
By Chef Deke Zaher
Editor Jennifer J. Lacelle Feb 17, 2022
Welcome back! As the rise of spring is around the corner, I wanted to come up with something "earthy" and wholesome for this month's submission. The blend of sage, milk, turnip, Portobello and sumac in this recipe certainly embrace this theme. There is minimal prep work involved and the results are always so satisfying. The final result looks great as a plated dish but is also perfect for that rustic, family style table service especially when assembled nicely onto a platter. An optional side to consider is rice; it could be a wild blend or Basmati. As for a beautiful blend to pair with it, try a Chardonnay. This recipe requires an intermediate skill level in the kitchen. IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 39
Time Total: 2-hours Preparation: 30-minute Cooking: 90-minute Broil (to finish): 5-minute
Ingredients 4-5 Chicken quarters 1L 2% Milk 28g fresh Sage 1oz Peppercorns 5 small Turnips 250g Thick cut Bacon 15 Mini potatoes 15 Brussel sprouts 2 Portabello mushrooms 8 cloves Garlic 2 tbsp x Sumac 2 tsp x sea salt 3oz EVOO 1oz Lemon juice
Equipment Dutch oven or roasting pan 12" Pan Baking sheet Large bowl Kitchen tongs Paper towel Parchment paper Small sauce pot (optional) Strainer (optional) Flour (optional)
Instructions Step 1: that bacon! Preheat oven to 425F and line the baking sheet with parchment paper, then layer the bacon strips side by
by side, spanning across the sheet. Once the oven is ready, bake for 25 minutes or bacon is moderately crispy and browned. You don't want the bacon overcooked or under cooked! When it is finished, put the bacon strips onto a plate layered with paper towel and pat it down. Then, cut the bacon into 1" pieces and set aside. Also, set the bacon fat to the side for later if you decide to make gravy. Important note: when the bacon is cooked and removed from the oven, turn down the temperature of the oven to 350F, which is the temperature needed for the pot.
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 40
Step 2: that chicken! Place the chicken pieces into a bowl and mix in the lemon juice. Then, season with sea salt (1/2 tsp). Rub the lemon juice and salt into the chicken very well, afterward pat the chicken dry with paper towel. Begin browning the chicken and give it a nice, crispy skin by putting the 3oz of olive oil in the pan and place it on the stovetop to mediumhigh heat. The goal here is to brown the skin, not to cook the meat itself. Once the oil is hot cook each side for 3 minutes, until golden brown. When done, place the chicken pieces onto a plate that’s lined with paper towel to absorb the excess oil. Take an extra paper towel and pat down the chicken to remove extra oil.
Step 3: Building the pot! First, layer the base of the pot with the sage (leaving 5 to top the dish with), sea salt, sumac and peppercorn. Crush the garlic and add. Wash and peel the turnips, leave whole. Wash and trim the Brussel sprouts, leave whole. Wash the Portobello and cut into 3-4 even slices each. Take all of these items and create the next layer in the pot, placing them on top of the first layer. Next, place the chicken on top of the vegetable and slip the bacon pieces in the open holes around the chicken. Pour in the milk over the contents until the chicken is half submerged. Top with the 5 sprigs of sage. Close the lid. Put the pot into the oven on the middle rack and set the timer for 90 minutes.
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 41
Step 5: the finishing! When the 90 minutes is up the dish is almost ready! Here lies an opportunity to crisp up the top of this dish. Pull the pot out of the oven and remove the lid (caution of steam). Set the oven to "broil" and wait 2 minutes for the oven to reset. Baste the chicken and put the pot back into the oven, uncovered, for 5 minutes. Step 6: Bonus round for the gravy! Strain the stock from the pot, pour into a small sauce pot and place on medium heat. In a pan, pour in the bacon fat and mix in small amounts of flour at a time and whisk vigorously to thicken into a rue. Add rue to the sauce pot in small quantities until lightly thickened, whisking frequently and bring to a simmer for 5 minutes. Voila! I wish you great success with the simplicity of this fabulously aromatic dish and I hope that you and your company love it! Enjoy, and be good to one another! Chef Deke Zaher, Zaher’s Test Kitchen www.zaherstestkitchen.com FB/Insta @ZahersTestKitchen
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 42
Culture FREE SPEECH
HOPE SPRINGS ETERNAL Are We There Yet? by Fred Lazar
Economics: Schulich School of Business | York University
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 45
Hope springs eternal. This reminds me of when my children were quite young, and I would hear on every road-trip the threesome chant, “Are we there yet?” As we now have entered year three of Covid-19, I ask the same, “Are we there yet?” By this I mean, have our policy-makers learned anything and do they have an end-game in mind? More and more governments across Europe are beginning to change course by accepting this virus as endemic and to be dealt with in a similar manner as the seasonal flu. These governments are being pushed this direction by a combination of new data — refinements in the science — and increasing numbers of demonstrations/protesters against past policies. More and more states in the US are doing the same. Here in Canada, the provinces west of Ontario are following this path. Even Quebec has announced that it will change its policies. Thus far, only the “Undemocratic Republic of Ontariostan” and the “Federal Government of Justin” are holding fast to their previous policies. Canada’s Prime Minister, because it’s “2015”, refused to meet with trucker protesters who descended on Ottawa in January 2022. The goal of these protesters is the elimination of
all restrictions. Justin instead chose to vilify them, calling them homophobic, transphobic, misogynists and racists. Conrad Black, in an article in the National Post, called the, “official response to the truckers protesting COVID restrictions is one of the most disgraceful political episodes in the history of Canada as an autonomous country.” If Justin used an extremely small sample of participants in the protests in Ottawa to justify his ugly and divisive rhetoric, then he should look at himself and his Liberal Party. Using his analysis, based on one small hair wagging the dog, he will discover much worse among his people than among the truckers and their supporters. But there might be hope for enlightenment as spring approaches. Chief Public Health Officer, Dr. Theresa Tam, recently said all existing health policies should be “reexamined” in the coming weeks as this virus will be around for months and years to come. Even “terrified” Canadians seem to be coming to their senses. A new Angus Reid Institute poll found that 54 per cent of Canadians now support an immediate end to all COVID restrictions in favour of treating the disease more like the flu.
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 46
During the summer of 2021, 69 per cent favoured lockdowns as an appropriate response to rising COVID cases. One of the Liberal backbenchers had the “audacity” to criticize his government’s policies. Quebec Liberal MP, Joël Lightbound, said, “I’ve heard from parents worried to see their kids sink into depression and slowly lose their joy of living.”
What have we learned thus far? On any policy issue, government usually brings in experts from different areas to offer their respective advice. Then the government, usually with the help of the Department of Finance, synthesizes the advice and comes up with a policy and an ultimate goal. Most often the goal is just to get re-elected.
But what were the objectives at that time? Covid zero was not realistic unless the virus spread very rapidly with low levels of severity — akin to the current Omicron variant; or there could be a complete and simultaneous global lockdown for three or four weeks — the China solution on a global scale. Alternatively, one or more vaccines could be developed within a short period of time, and the vaccines would be 100 per cent effective in preventing infection by and spread of the virus. Unfortunately, the vaccines developed to date do neither, although they are effective in greatly reducing the severity and mortality risk of the infection.
In the case of the current pandemic, the federal and provincial governments seem to have relied solely on the advice of health experts. At the beginning —January and February 2020 — when little was known about this virus, it made sense for the government to depend primarily on the advice of health experts. There was little science available, and the severity of this virus was unknown. Better to be safe than sorry. IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 47
Only China continues to pursue a Covid zero goal while Australia and New Zealand have finally given up on this quixotic goal. The third objective, which seems to be the one adopted across Canada, might have been to flatten the curve. In the absence of the discovery of vaccines and/or other treatments that reduce the severity and mortality risks of this virus, flattening the curve (if effective) would only spread out the total number of cases and deaths over a longer period of time. But achieving this objective would not reduce the total number of cases and deaths over a period of years. Flattening the curve appeared to become the battle-cry and apparently the objective. Flattening the curve through selective and time-limited lockdowns together with social distancing requirements and masks would alleviate pressure on the healthcare system, but would not reduce the cumulative number of people who would eventually become infected, hospitalized or die. Thus, this goal revealed a serious problem with our healthcare system: the lack of an adequate surge capacity. What is an adequate surge capacity is difficult to define, but this is a question that should have been addressed long before Covid-19 came along.
The goal of flattening the curve was driven by the hope that a vaccine would be developed in a short period of time.
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 48
This lack of surge capacity in our healthcare system exposed a serious problem with our system. How should governments deal with this gap in surge capacity? They could throw more money into our healthcare system. How much and what should be the respective contributions of each level? But more importantly, should this be incremental spending over and above current aggregate levels of spending by governments? If so, how should this be financed — higher taxes (which ones and by how much); re-allocation of spending from other areas (which areas and why); and/or higher deficits and more debt? With regards to the deficits and debt, another question arises — should the Bank of Canada operate as an ATM and monetize the deficit; and if not, what might be the economic consequence of higher interest rates?
Trade-Offs Policy-making inevitably deals with trade-offs and they cannot be avoided. These questions should have been considered from the outset of this pandemic. Science evolves by collecting data, generally through experiments, testing existing hypotheses, and changing some of the underlying assumptions behind these hypotheses in light of the new data and resulting research findings. As we proceeded through 2020, data were beginning to tell us that the hospitalization and mortality risks were low, except for certain demographic groups. The data also began to reveal serious problems beyond physical health. Mental health problems seemed to be growing. Hundreds of thousands of students in elementary and secondary schools across the country had disappeared.
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 49
They dropped out, and many will never return or recover. They are the future poor. Many businesses in the service sector were failing. The economic costs, including the future costs of dealing with the record fiscal deficits incurred to mitigate the economic fallout of the policy measures, were mounting rapidly. By mid-year 2020, government should have been listening to experts in other fields, as well as a wider group of health experts and should have started re-considering the goals and policies. Vaccines came along in 2021 and perhaps the end was in sight. Even though the government’s focus now shifted to persuading 80 to 90 per cent of all adult Canadians to voluntarily be vaccinated, there did not seem to be any expansion of the range of expertise of the advisors to government. Governments at all levels still relied on their health experts alone. Science continually evolves.
The vaccines do not appear to be the magic wands to get us to Covid zero, which somehow became the new goal across Canada. Draconian vaccine mandates no longer made sense, at least from the perspective of reducing the spread of the virus. So, are we there yet, and have our governments in Ottawa and Toronto learned anything? Unfortunately, the answers to both are no. We no longer know what a realistic objective is other than a belief that continuing with ad hoc measures and prioritizing efforts to do something about the pandemic will increase the likelihood of the parties in power being re-elected. The negative fall-out from the policies implemented during the past two years are beginning to appear and will continue to appear for years to come. History will show, I believe, that governments across Canada have made serious policy mistakes since at least mid-year 2020. The costs of their policies likely will far exceed the benefits.
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 50
IINTA MAGAZINE | ISSUE 02 VOL 02: MARCH 2022 | 51
unearth amazing content