GHANAIAN NEWS - DECEMBER 2019

Allied Physiotherapy & Wellness Centre

SELL

Physiotherapy & Massage Clinic

OVER 10 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE INVESTING IN REAL ESTATE

Bus: 416-847-5314 Cell: 647-393-4756

FLEXIBLE COMMISSION TO SELL YOUR HOME

Fax: 647-362-9356

Eric Okesie, Clinic Director

see pg. 8

Vol. 23 No. 12

The

December 2019

1275 Finch Ave. W., Suite 306 North York, ON, M3J 2G5 Email: alliedphysio1@gmail.com see pg. 25

A TOP PRODUCING AGENT AT DREAM MAKER REALTY FREE CONSULTATION SERVICE

Jude Botchway 416.844.6846 905.553.7326

DisplayAdvertising : 416-916-3700 / Classified Advertising:

Fax: 416-916-67

KEEPING YOU IN TOUCH WITH NEWS FROM HOME AND LOCAL COMMUNITY ISSUES

1111 Albion Road, Suite 103, Etobicoke, Ont. M9V 1A9 Tel: 416-916-3700 Fax: 416-916-6701

Premier Ford attends National Ethnic Press Party

By Jonathan Baah Annobil, Toronto

The Polymenakin Cultural Centre, (St. Demetrios) on 30 Thorncliff Park Drive, Toronto was the venue of this year’s Ethnic Press & Media Council of Canada, (NEPMCC) end of year get-together. The spacious hall was filled to capacity with members, families and guests.

Premier of the Ontario, Doug Ford, was the special guest who graced the occasion and mingled with the attendees and chatted and took photographs and left due to his very tight schedule.

After the introduction of the MCs for the night Mr. Roberto Hausman and Mrs. Maria Voutsinas-Saras, the event got started with singing of the National anthem by Ms Vanessa Wheatle.

Mr. Thomas Saras, CEO and President of NEMPCC, thanked all for coming and stated that he was happy for 2 reasons. “We have to fight and we have to understand that together we are one and we fighting for the same ideals” he remarked.

cont’d story on pg. 13

pictures on pg. 51 Premier Ford (3rd right) with some Executives of National Ethnic Press

‘’Emulate Santa Claus and Jesus will love you’’

By Emmanuel Ayiku, Toronto, ON

Rev. Isaac De-Graft Takyi

Snr. Pastor of the Living Word Assembly of God (LWAG) Rev. Isaac De-Graft Takyi urged the Christian community in Toronto emulate the philanthropic works of Santa Claus.

He delivered the sermon on Christmas Day, 25 December, 2019 from the pulpit in Toronto.

Rev. Issac DeGraft Takyi tasked the congregants to be charitable and generous to their neighbors and this will draw them to Jesus Christ.

He said: ‘’Christmas is a time of gifts. I trust that you also got a gift. The modern world focuses on Santa and most kids look up to Santa for surprises.

Rev. Isaac DeGraft Takyi (Santa Claus) with Children of LWAG on Christmas Day

cont’d on pg. 13

2

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Injured?

car accident slip and fall

denied of insurance claim?

Muhammad M. Alam, LL.B., J.D Founder and Managing Barrister Ike Amoako Claim Specialist 416-846-3727

24/7 emergency line

416-625-2636 schedule free consultation

hire expert injury lawyers no win - no fee

The Ghanaian News December 2019 3

Rev. Dr. Mantey launches 2 new books in Toronto

By Joe Kingsley Eyiah, Toronto, ON Two special books- Christianity As a Way of Life: Reflections on the Epistle of James, and Jesus and the Seven Churches-have been officially launched by the prolific gospel writer Rev. Dr. Charles B. Mantey in Toronto.

The function which took place at Disciples Revival Church at 30 Gordon Mackay Road, Toronto on Sunday, November 24, 2019 was co-chaired by Mr. & Mrs. Nana Asare and Mr. & Mrs. Kabu Asante.

After a brief but soul inspiring worship & praise section by the DRC Worship Team, Deacon Derek Hazzard offer an opening prayer.

The MC for the function, Brother William Dankwa invited Mr. Eyiah, a professional teacher and Contributing Editor of the Ghanaian News based in Toronto to present his review of the two books. The reviewer took the audience through concise plot summaries of the two books, the evaluation of the work done in the writing of the books by the author and made a powerful recommendation on the books to readers.

He pointed out that the 33 Chapters of Christianity as a Way of Life and the 23 Chapters of Jesus and the Seven Churches of Revelation each has a ‘Food for Thought’ section at the end. This, the author, aptly crafted to give more value to the two books as study-guides to those Bible books he discussed.

The themes in the books are based on problem of discrimination in the church, false teachers, wavering faith of Christians in Jesus Christ, the use of the tongue which could either bring us trouble or peace!

The object of the second book in particular is Jesus and His specific messages to the Seven Churches as reported by John the Revealt or in the last book of the Bible. He calls Christians to repentance, faithfulness, fearlessness, distinct identity in the world, the truth, being sensitive to sin through submission to the control of the Holy Spirit and being subjected to the authority of God’s Word not to compromise our spirituality so that we become conquerors. ‘To him who overcomes l will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne” (Revelation 3:21) When it was time for him to speak a word at the function, Rev. Dr. Mantey praised the members of the Disciples Revival Church for sticking with him and his wife in ministration. He mentioned his writing team which includes the Publisher, Prof. Philip Alalibo of Shidaanikei Publishing Inc as well as his books reviewer, Teacher Eyiah.

Rev. Dr. Mantey specifically mentioned the unfaithfulness of some Christians and the rush for miracles by some false Pastors at the neglect of the Word of God as his main concern and

Unveiling of the books

Signing of autograph

inspiration for writing those two books.

The program was interspersed with song ministration by the ace trumpeter Brother Dave McLaughlin.

After the blessing of the books by Pastor George Amon the copies available were auctioned and autographed by Rev. Dr. Mantey.

Sales of the books were conducted by Deacon Oduro-Boadu and Bro. Felix Mensah. This was followed with vote

of thanks by Sister Ruth Mensah.

Apostle Twumasi Ankara offered the closing prayer and benediction.

Copies of the two books which cost $25 each can be purchased on Amazon. com or from the writer at the Disciples Revival Church (info@drc-Church. com. Donations are also welcome to support the work of Rev. Dr. & Mrs. Mantey in Toronto and around the world.

4

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Book Your Tickets Online at Web: www.supremetravels.com Email: info@supremetravels.ca CALL US FOR THE BEST FARES TO LAGOS, ACCRA AND ALL OVER AFRICA 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN TRAVEL INDUSTRY GUARANTEED LOWEST FARE TO AFRICA

The Ghanaian News December 2019 5

Finton Travel Ltd.

IATA 67501490

TICO # 4308045

Traveling to Ghana, Nigeria or anywhere around the world Call Nana Osei

# 1 VALUE TO THE WORLDD

Tel: 416-746-7028 Fax: 416-746-6806

Serving The African Community Since 1979

2200 Martin Grove Rd., Toronto, Ont., M9V 5H9

Royal African Travel & Cargo Services TICO #50015070 TDS #96-528773

Tel: 416-740-5617

Call Us For Special Fares On KLM, Delta, Lufthansa, Brussels Airlines And Many More

For Reservations & Information Tel: 416-964-1950 Fax: 416-964-7546 Toll Free: 1-800-335-2304 info@etravelair.com

Kwame Agyemang Manager

2428 Islington Ave, Suite 205

Competitive, Experienced, Efficient

Registration # 50016573, GST# 81585 8212 RT0001

We Offer Excellent Fares to AFRICAN,

EUROPEAN / ASIA /AUSTRALIA and North America Cities.

We also offer Package Tours and Visitor to Canada Insurance.

Call the Experts: 905-276-0000 Watts 1 888 339 9336 E-mails:sk@airvacations.ca

7900 Hurontario St, Suite 202, Brampton, Ont, L6Y 0P6

World Class Travel Agency

Your convenience is our passion We offer good Fares To and From Africa and North America Cities Call us for special fares on all the Airlines For Reservation and Information

Call Gina 647-834-5359 Office 416-477-5699

We Offer Excellent Fares To And From All Major AFRICAN, European And North American Cities

Email: airconnections.ca@gmail.com

Gina Ofori # 50023039

23 Westmore Dr., # 110, Toronto, ON, M9V 3Y7

Sylvester Gyebi 50011608

569 Yonge Street

Toronto

Travel Consultant

(Main Floor)Toronto,

Ontario

6

The Ghanaian News December 2019

EDITORIAL KEEPING YOU IN TOUCH WITH NEWS FROM HOME AND LOCAL COMMUNITY ISSUES

EDITORIAL Publisher / Editor Emmanuel Ayiku Contributing Editors Dr. Michael Baffoe Joe Kingsley Eyiah Director of Operations Comfort Ayiku Community Reporter Jonathan Annobil Winnipeg Bureau Dr. Michael Baffoe The Ghanaian News Publishes news and comments from the Community, serves Ghanaians across Canada with good source of information is committed to give good community Journalism The Ghanaian News is published in Canada by The Ghanaian News Corporation Editorial Office 1111 Albion Road, Suite 103 Etobicoke, Ont. M9V 1A9 Tel:(416) 916-3700 Advertising Fax (416) 916-6701 Internet: www.ghanaiannews.ca E-mail: cayiku@gmail.com info@ghanaiannews.ca $1:00 per copy Subscription costs $66.00 for one year. including postage U.S. and foreign subscriptions costs US$120 per year.

Letters to the Editor We encourage your feedback and value your comments. Please feel free to write to us. keep letters to a maximum of 200 words, include your full name, Telephone # and mailing address with all correspondence.

Address your letters to the Editor The Ghanaian News 1111Albion Rd., Suite 103 Etobicoke, Ont., M9V 1A9 Tel: 416-916-3700 or Fax: 416-916-6701 or e-mail us at info@ghanaiannews.ca Articles appearing in various columns of the Ghanaian News are intended to generate civil and informed public discussions.

You do not have to agree with opinions expressed by the writers.

That should encourage you to write to express your own views.

This is the way we generate lively and civil discussions in the community. Rejoinders are not forums for personal insults and we want readers to adhere to these principles.

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage

Taking Stock

Looking Ahead to 2020 and Beyond Another year has passed. So many things happened to us as individuals, families, and as communities in the diaspora and in the Land of Our Birth. Some of these events were tragic. Others brought our dear nation Ghana to breaking point, but cool heads prevailed and the nation survived…at least for now. In our lives, homes, neighborhoods and communities abroad, so many eventful things also took place.

We lost a number of our community members to the icy hands of death. Some of these deaths, especially those involving some of our youth, were preventable.

We believe these and many more are the reasons why we take stock of our lives when a year ends and make resolutions when a new one begins. As a community here in Canada, we know very well what went wrong with us which were preventable.

And we also know those situations in which we could have done better for the fortunes of our community but failed or neglected to do. We salute those community members who actively chipped in and contributed their best: energy, resources, time and money to uplift the fortunes of our community. They should not rest on their oars but strive to do better. Sadly, there are still a number of community members, in fact the majority, who care less about the fortunes of our community. They participate very little or not at all in community events apart from the usual Outdooring parties and Funeral gatherings. We can certainly do better than that.

We therefore earnestly entreat all our community members to recognize the fact that there is always power in numbers. The other diaspora communities who have succeeded in Canada did so out of, and through their collective efforts.

They did not leave their communities’ fortunes in the hands of a few individuals and groups.

The youth in our community are doing great but we need to harness their energies into fruitful collaboration with the adults to achieve something better for our communities across Canada. In the GTA for example there seems to be developing a divide between the youth and the adults in the community where the youth will organize opposing national celebratory events.

This division does not augur well for community development. The adults and the youth need to come together to explore common areas that they can work together and leave areas that the youth and adults can work separately. This is absolutely necessary if we are to move our community forward.

Finally, we need also to pay attention to events happening in our homeland…the Land of Our Birth. After years of turmoil and declining fortunes, things seem to be looking on the upwards direction. A number of important initiatives that the current government has put forward, implemented or have recently being launched have been positive and contributed to the stability of the nation and its fortunes, especially those that have been targeted at the youth.

No matter our political affiliations, sympathies or otherwise, we should recognize the many positive things that the current government has implemented that bid well for the nation and its future. The introduction of the Free Senior High School program, now in its third year, the Nation Builders Corps that took in over 100,000 unemployed University graduates, the One District one Factory, restoration of Nurses and Techers and Nurses Allowances, and most importantly, the end to the dreaded power outages (Dumsor) have all contributed positively to the nation’s growth and development.

We should continue to pray for the government and our people back home because whatever happens there, positive or negative, have impact on our lives here since they trigger chain reactions and demands on us from family and friends at home.

We wish all community members, our friends and supporters the best in this New Year 2020 and beyond.

Lieutenant Governor’s 2019 holiday message Happy holidays!

As we await the promises and challenges of a new year, let us reflect on how fortunate we are to live in a country with an enduring and healthy democracy. Even with the tremendous change and uncertainty of our time, our civic spirit is undiminished in Ontario.

I am grateful for the warmth with which you have welcomed me into your lives this past year. All across this beautiful province, there are so many wonderful stories of people taking pride in their communities, tackling challenges, and aspiring to make them even more viable and inclusive.

For example, I think of neighbours who came together to rebuild after flooding in Ottawa, and people from the farthest reaches of our province feeling compelled to donate to relief efforts. I also think of first responders, social workers, Scouts, volunteers, and citizens old and young receiving awards for bravery, community service, and academic excellence.

Particularly memorable are those who bridge the past and the future, including farmers in Bradford West Gwillimbury who—with their sons and daughters, the future leaders of this province’s agricultural sector—are investing in new technologies and taking seriously their contributions to food security.

From north to south, east to west, residents and members of civil society have been working with local governments to find real solutions to complex problems. I had the privilege of witnessing the signing of a ground-breaking and promising friendship accord between First Nations, municipalities, and economic development authorities in the Peterborough area.

And how very inspiring to see young people caring about the environment around them. Who could forget the thousands of young people, supported by their families and teachers, who marched for climate action and for more resilient communities. Locally, participants of the Love Your Lake project in Prince Edward County enthusiastically pick up and track litter, creating a more aesthetically pleasing and healthy landscape.

Beyond our borders at the United Nations in New York, young people and civic leaders from Ontario made headlines sharing challenges and innovations with global citizens so that we all may learn to live together in a world that works for everyone. Ontarians are leading the word towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

All of you give me hope. As we look ahead to the year 2020, we have every reason to be optimistic in Ontario. This is a place where everyone, including those less fortunate, may reach their potential and live with dignity.

Whatever traditions and cultures you choose to celebrate, I wish you a joyous holiday with family and friends. May love and light fill your days.

And may the year ahead bring you good health and happiness, peace and harmony. Ontario Press Service

The Ghanaian News Celebrating 22 years of Community Service 1997 - 2019

The Ghanaian News December 2019 7

U.S. House impeachment of Trump sets stage for trial in Senate The impeachment of President Donald Trump in the U.S. House of Representatives on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress sets the stage for a historic trial next month in the Republican-controlled Senate on whether he should be removed from office.

discredited theory that Democrats conspired with Ukraine to meddle in the 2016 election.

Democrats said Trump held back $391 million in security aid intended to combat Russiabacked separatists and a coveted White House meeting for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy as leverage to coerce Kiev into interfering in the 2020 election by smearing Biden.

The mostly party-line votes on Wednesday in the Democratic-led House came after long hours of bitter debate that reflected the partisan tensions in a divided America, and made Trump the third U.S. president to be impeached.

Republicans argued that Democrats were using a rigged process to nullify the 2016 election and influence Trump’s 2020 re-election campaign, while Democrats said Trump’s actions in pressuring Ukraine to investigate Joe Biden, a leading Democratic presidential contender, were a threat to democracy.

Trump is certain to face more friendly terrain during a trial in the 100-member Senate, where a vote to remove him would require a two-thirds majority. That means at least 20 Republicans would have to join Democrats in voting against Trump - and none have indicated they will.

The Senate’s top Republican, Mitch McConnell, has

U.S. President Donald Trump looks on during a campaign rally in Battle Creek, REUTERS/Leah Millis

predicted there is “no chance” his chamber will remove Trump. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said after the vote she would wait to name the House managers, who will prosecute the case, until she knew more about the Senate trial procedures. She did not specify when she would send the impeachment articles to the Senate.

“So far, we haven’t seen anything that looks fair to us,” Pelosi told reporters of the Senate process.

Trump, 73, is accused of abusing his power by pressuring Ukraine to investigate Biden, the former U.S. vice president, as well as a

Trump is also accused of obstruction of Congress by directing administration officials and agencies not to comply with lawful House subpoenas for testimony and documents related to impeachment.

Trump, who is seeking another four-year term in the November 2020 presidential election, has denied wrongdoing and called the impeachment inquiry launched by Pelosi in September a “witch hunt.”

At a raucous rally for his re-election in Battle Creek, Michigan, as the House voted, Trump said the impeachment would be a “mark of shame” for Democrats and Pelosi, and cost them in the 2020 election.

“This lawless, partisan impeachment is a political suicide march for the Democrat Party,” Trump said. “They’re the ones who should be impeached, every one of them.”

During the House debate on Wednesday, Pelosi read the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance and said: “We are here to defend democracy for the people.”

“If we do not act now, we would be derelict in our duty. It is tragic that the president’s reckless actions make impeachment necessary,” Pelosi said.

Republicans said Democrats were driven by their anger over the outcome of the 2016 election.

“The matter before the House today is based solely on a fundamental hatred of our president. It’s a sham, a witch hunt - and it’s tantamount to a coup against the duly elected president of the United States,” Republican Representative Mike Rogers said.

The abuse of power article was passed on a 230-197 vote and the obstruction article was passed by 229198. All of the House Republicans opposed them, and two Democrats, Collin Peterson and Jeff Van Drew, voted no on both. Democrat Jared Golden voted against the obstruction charge, but for abuse of power.

U.S. Representative Tulsi Gabbard, a Democratic presidential candidate, voted present on both articles, declaring in a statement: “I could not in good conscience vote either yes or no.” She said she introduced a resolution for Trump’s censure.

Trump’s election has polarized the United States, dividing families and friends and making it more difficult for politicians in Washington to find middle ground as they try to confront pressing challenges like the rise of China and climate change.

The impeachment vote comes ahead of Trump’s reelection campaign, which will pit him against the winner among a field of Democratic contenders, including Biden, who have repeatedly criticized Trump’s conduct in office and promised to make it a key issue.

“President Trump abused his power, violated his oath of office, and betrayed our nation,” Biden said on Twitter after the vote, adding: “In the United States of America, no one is above the law — not even the president.”

Reuters/Ipsos polls show that while most Democrats wanted to see him impeached, most Republicans did not. Televised hearings last month that were meant to build public support for impeachment appear to have pushed the two sides further apart. reuters.com

8

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Family, Friends, Community It's important to know someone you can rely on when it comes to your insurance and financial planning needs

THINKING OF SELLING OR BUYING A HOUSE Credit Valley Real Estate "INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED, BROKERAGE"

For the following products:

Contact Info:

 Life Insurance  Disability Insurance  RRSPs & Retirement Planning  Children Education Plans  Critical Illness  Mortgage Insurance

Office: Nana Asare Contact Nana Asare, B.A. (Hons), BEC Dip Life Underwriter

Tel: 416-630-4000 ext. 335 Fax: 416-630-4022 Cell: 416-578-3417 Email: asare@theleadingedge.ca

3625 Dufferin Street, Suite 340, Toronto, Ont. M3K 1Z2

905-793-5000

Toll Free:

1-800-631-5216

Direct: 416-558-8383 Agnes Ansong Real Estate Sales Representative

Fax:

905-793-5020

Email: agnes@royallepage.ca

10045 Hurontario St. Suite #1 Brampton, Ontario L6Z 0E6

Boateng Insurance & Financial Services

Area of Service Include:

INSURANCE: Auto & Home Commercial Life, Disability Critical Illness Health & Mortgages

LOANS Leveraging and Investment Loans

Eric A. Boateng A.P.A. B.A. Wealth Creation Specialist

TAXES INVESTMENTS Mutual Funds, Seg Funds Tel: 416-843-0887 Cell: 416-843-0887 Fax: 416-208-7447 Annuities, RESP RRSP, LLIF, RRIF, LIF Email: erboateng10@gmail.com

81 Linton Avenue, Ajax, Ontario, L1T 2V5

“Your Honest Neighborhood Realtor” Ekua Bamfo Sales Representative

Cell: 647-970-1283 Office: 416-391-3232 Fax: 416-391-0319

Email: ekuabamfo@gmail.com Web: rightathomerealty.com

Right at Home Realty Inc. Brokage 1396 Don Mills Road, #B121, Toronto, ON, M3B 0A7

BUY, SELL, LEASE, INVEST

Call Us First The Ghanaian News 416-916-3700

Our Services are Auto Insurance, House Insurance, Business and Commercial Insurance.

Save Up to 30 % on your Insurance rates.

Representing Major Insurance Companies.

Tel: 905-683-8484 or Mobile 647-885-9082

George Amoako, President/ Owner Opportunity exist for Licensed Insurance Brokers.

The Ghanaian News December 2019 9

Supreme Court rules sons of Russian spies are Canadian citizens OTTAWA -Alexander Vavilov, the Toronto-born son of Russian spies, is a Canadian citizen, the Supreme Court of Canada has decided.

In its judgment Thursday, the high court upheld a Federal Court of Appeal decision that effectively affirmed the citizenship of not only Alexander but also his brother Timothy.

Aside from addressing the citizenship matter, the Supreme Court ruling aimed to bring clarity to the nature and scope of judicial review of decisions by administrative officials.

Alexander, 25, and Timothy, 29, were born in Canada

to parents using the aliases Donald Howard Heathfield and Tracey Lee Ann Foley.

The parents were arrested nine years ago in the United States and indicted on charges of conspiring to act as secret agents on behalf of Russia’s SVR, a successor to the notorious Soviet KGB. Heathfield and Foley admitted to being Andrey Bezrukov and Elena Vavilova. They were sent back to Moscow as part of a swap for prisoners in Russia.

Alexander, who finished high school in Russia, changed his surname to Vavilov on the advice of Canadian officials in a bid to obtain a Canadian passport.

But he ran into a snag at the passport office and in August 2014 the citizenship registrar said the government no longer recognized him as a Canadian citizen.

The registrar said his parents were employees of a foreign government at the time of his birth, making him ineligible for citizenship.

The Federal Court of Canada upheld the decision.

But in June 2017, the appeal court set aside the ruling and quashed the registrar’s decision. It said the provision of the Citizenship Act the registrar cited should not apply because the parents did not have diplomatic privileges or immunities while in Canada.

On the strength of the ruling, Alexander has since been able to renew his Canadian passport and he hopes to live and work in Canada - calling his relationship with the country a cornerstone of his identity.

However, in a decision last year, the Federal Court said the ruling on Alexander equally applied to Timothy, making him “a citizen.”

In its decision, the Supreme Court said the registrar’s decision was unreasonable.

Although the registrar knew her interpretation of the provision was novel, she failed to provide a proper rationale, the court said.

3 teens sentenced to 2 years of probation for St. Michael’s College School sex assaults

Although it involves the same central issue, Timothy’s case proceeded separately through the courts and was therefore not directly before the Supreme Court.

Jim Bronskill , The Associated Press

WARNING: This story contains details that some readers may find disturbing

CBC News · Three teenagers were sentenced Thursday to two years of probation each for the assault and two sexual assaults on the campus of an all-boys private school in Toronto in 2018.

The three former St. Michael’s College School all pleaded guilty in October to one count each of assault with a weapon and sexual assault with a weapon for three separate locker-room attacks.

One of the teens also pleaded guilty to a charge of making child pornography, having filmed the sex assaults on his phone.

The boys hugged their parents and lawyers after Justice Brian Weagant’s sentences were handed down.

Weagant declined to read his entire decision, saying the courtroom was loud and he didn’t want to be misquoted He heard sentencing arguments in the Ontario Court of Justice last month.

Two of the boys are 16 years old and one is 15, CBC News has confirmed. Under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, none of the defendants or their victims can be identified.

The Crown had sought 12 to 15 months in jail for two teens and 10 to 12 months for the third. Lawyers for the teens had asked for two years’ probation with no jail time, saying their clients are remorseful and ashamed.

The extreme hazing incidents sparked debate around the country about bullying and cont’d on pg. 10

10

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Carding ‘not going to come back’ TPS Chief Saunders says Gun crime not caused by end to carding: Saunders

Toronto’s “elevated” gun crime problem does not warrant a return to carding, Chief Mark Saunders said Friday.

The controversial practice of Ontario police randomly selecting a person and questioning them without any suspicion of them being involved in a crime was quashed by the previous Liberal government in 2017, after a sustained stream of research into its use showed it disproportionately impacted people of colour.

“Under that definition of carding – it is simply unlawful policing,” Saunders told reporters at a year-end press conference on Friday. “It is not going to come back but I will say it (ending) has forced us to raise the bar.”

Going in to 2020, Saunders said more of his officers will begin to wear body cameras, update their 35-yearold shift schedule model and add 341 new officers to respond to gun crime.

Saunders said investigators targeting guns and gangs have become more “surgical” and more information sharing has led to investigations not causing as much

Two-hundred and seventy-seven people were struck by gunfire in Toronto this year, up from 218 in 2018 and 182 in 2017.

A large part of why so many firearms have been found is how lucrative it is to bring them illegally from the U.S. Chief Mark Saunders damage to community trust as they did in the past, when he said police would “blanket the communities with officers.”

As a result, he said the solve rate for shootings with injuries has risen from 13 per cent last year to 30 per cent this year.

But he conceded that gun crime is continuing to increase in Toronto due to the stunningly lucrative nature of gun smuggling, dealing fentanyl and human trafficking.

“The spike (in crime) right now, is monetary,” Saunders said.

He said that that there are several new criminal activities in North America that have proven more lucrative than in the past, including the smuggling of handguns from the U.S., spiking drugs with the opioid fentanyl and

sex trafficking.

Incidents occurred over 3 months The details in the agreed statement of facts in the case are graphic, describing three different incidents involving members of one of the school’s football teams.

In the first case, in September 2018, a student was changing his clothes when he was surrounded by several people and “picked up by the arms and legs and swung around,” according to court documents.

Without better supports to steer people away from engaging in these activities, as well as programs to deter those released from prison from resuming their

“Ninety per cent of the people we apprehend are coming out, that’s your starting point to the theory of what needs to be done to get it right collectively.”

Chris Herhalt, CP24.com

The ability to spike traditional drugs such as cocaine with the opioid fentanyl has created more addicts, and correspondingly, more overdose deaths.

Nearly 1,000 people died of overdoses in Toronto this year, triple what it was several years ago.

More drug sales equates to larger profits, and in turn encourages more people to get involved in crime.

“It all adds up to dollars, and people are getting killed as a result.”

Saunders said 800 firearms were seized by his officers in 2019.

The group put him on the floor and pulled down his football pants then struck him across the buttocks with a broomstick.

team. He was also anally penetrated with a broom handle, an assault also filmed and then distributed.

A month later, the same boy was victimized again, this time with the broomstick shoved in between his buttocks and into his anus several times. This incident was also recorded but then deleted after the victim pleaded with one of the accused to erase the video.

Four other teenagers were initially charged.

One of them had his charges withdrawn.

The cases of two other accused have concluded, but the Ministry of the Attorney General has refused to disclose those outcomes.

The third incident, in November 2018, involved a different victim, who was not on the school’s football

And thirdly, trafficking of one vulnerable person for the purpose of sex can earn someone between $250,000 and $300,000 in one year.

previous activities, Saunders repeated his mantra that his service will not be able to arrest their way out of the problems the city is facing.

These activities are encouraging more people from disadvantaged areas to join street gangs, which he said in turn generates more criminal activity and shootings.

3 teens sentenced to 2 years of probation for St. Michael’s College School sex assaults cont’d from pg. 9 how such cases are handled by school administrators.

“When you go to a gun show and you can buy a Glock for $400 in the states and then you cross the border and it becomes

$4000,” Saunders said.

Another accused is set to go to trial in March.

With files from Lorenda Reddekopp and Lucas

Canada Cell: 416-825-5885 USA Cell 1-917-306-0073Tel: 1-914-652-7191 Ghana Cell: +233244-672052 Tel: +233332195630

Web: www.saharaherbals.com Email: atosahara@yahoo.com

PROMOTING YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS. SO LET’S TALK CALL GHANAIAN NEWS

416-916-3700

Ghana and Nigeria top list of markets to watch for key project developments

The Ghanaian News December 2019 11

SIKAMAN-JOHNSON ACCOUNTING & TAX SERVICE

Ghana’s determination to become sub-Saharan Africa’s first LNG importer in 2020 is set to become a reality as the Tema LNG terminal project nears completion In its African Energy Outlook 2020 report launched last month, the African Energy Chamber (“The Chamber”) (https://EnergyChamber. org/) highlighted the importance of increased infrastructure capacity in Africa’s long-term industrial development.

Spotlighting the $12 billion Dangote Refinery in Nigeria and Ghana’s Tema LNG Terminal, the Chamber noted essential role such projects play in revamping the sector and creating opportunities for private sector investors.

“At a time when the low oil price is gripping treasury revenues, private capital is developing key oil and gas infrastructure projects which could have a significant impact on the African energy and power landscape over the next decade,” the report said.

On the Dangote Refinery, the Chamber called attention to the current state of Nigeria’s infrastructure and the contribution the project would have specifically as the country works

towards tripling its refining capacity to 1.5 million bpd by 2025 as a means to reduce its reliance on fuel imports.

To this, the report said, “the refinery’s tank farms are set out for completion in Q4-19 and they may be used as a depot before the refinery’s production starts. This would provide an immediate increase to fuel storage capacity.”

Ghana’s determination to become sub-Saharan Africa’s first LNG importer in 2020 is set to become a reality as the Tema LNG terminal project nears completion.

The project will be able to cover 25 percent of Ghana’s total electricity generation capacity, with gas providing a cheaper alternative to oil.

“The deal with Rosneft enables Ghana to diversify gas imports away from Nigeria, which has consistently failed to provide the agreed level of supply since the West African Gas Pipeline started operating (back in November 2011),” the

Chamber explained.

Adding that the emergence of offshore storage and regasification technology is enabling smaller, lower-risk, rapid LNG solutions that could be replicated elsewhere in the region in countries with substantial gas reserves.

Now available for free download on the website, the African Energy Outlook 2020 also features the 25 Movers and Shakers to Watch list which highlights key industry players that are set to have a great impact on the future of Africa’s energy and economic development.

The list includes Donald J. Trump President Of The United States of America; Mustafa Sanalla Chairman, National Oil Corporation, Libya; Abdel Fatah Al-Sisi President Of Egypt; Dr Omar Mithá Chairman & Ceo, Enh Mozambique and Tope Shonubi Managing Director, Sahara Energy.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

JOBS!... JOBS!... JOBS Putting People Back to work is our Business Long-Term and Short-Term

NOW HIRING!!!

We offer Employment Opportunities Long and Short in the following areas: INDUSTRIAL * WAREHOUSE SECRETARY

TREE OF LIFE EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

Tel: 416-740-4428

4250 Weston Rd. Suite 202, North York, ON.

12

The Ghanaian News December 2019

FOCUS Are Teachers Asking For Too Much Of The National Cake?

Asks Joe Kingsley Eyiah, OCT, Brookview Middle School, Toronto-Canada “Labor activist McAleveydelivers a persuasive argument that the power of ‘strong, democratic’ trade unions can fix many of America’s social problems in this timelycri de Coeur….”

(Publishers Weekly-2019) Once upon a time in the land of Ghana, there was the saying that, the teacher’s reward was in heaven.

Funny! Wasn’t it? What about the teacher who could not go to heaven? Where was his/her reward? In hell? One could argue that hitherto teachers in Ghana had been poorly paid and their working conditions not commensurate to the services they rendered.

The teachers unions in Ghana-the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers (CCT) over the years had to sit up and fight for the few “better” conditions teachers enjoy in the country. Perhaps the same could be said of teachers in the Ontario Province of Canada. Not until recently teachers in the province had to live with poor conditions of service. It took the dynamic leadership of teachers’ unions in Ontario to negotiate with the provincial government (in Canada education is the responsibility of the Provinces) to get better service conditions for

teachers in the province some years back. Such negotiations were devoid of industrial actions.

They were peaceful and mature! Why are we now experiencing teachers’ strike actions in both Ghana and Ontario as a means to “forcing” governments to improve teachers’ working conditions? Are teachers asking too much of the national cake? Or are governments being insensitive to the plight of education nowadays and as such making the work of teachers too difficult as well as insignificant?

A Noble Profession: From time immemorial, teaching has been a noble profession. From the days of Socrates to the time of Paul of the Bible students/ graduates had spoken highly of their teachers (also called masters in some instances). The Holy Bible mentions teaching as one of the three top spiritual gifts from God that we must desire most for the

growth of His church (read 1 Corth. 12:28). Interesting!

Teachers make the medical doctors, the lawyers, the accountants, the engineers, the agriculturalists, the musicians, the pastors, the politicians, the nurses, the computer analysts and many other workers who contribute effectively to the building of a nation anywhere. This noble profession which propels education should not be seen at loggerheads with the main provider of education to the detriment of students and parents as being experienced in the Province of Ontario, which hosts most of the immigrants to Canada from all parts of the world including Ghana.

The Ontario Situation: High school students in Toronto and other regions in Ontario were out of class on December 4, 2019 as teachers and education workers involved in contentious contract negotiations with the province planned to hold another one-day strike on December 11.

Indeed, the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation (OSSTF) which represents 60,000 educators had said that high school teachers in nine district schools boards would hold a one-day strike on Dec. 11.

A similar job action closed all high schools -- and many elementary schools -- in the

F O R P E A C E O F M I N D , O B TA I N A L A N D C E R T I F I C AT E W A L L & M O U N T G AT E , F I N I S H I N G O U R S E R V I C E S AVA I L A B L E I N A L L R E G I O N S L A N D S & P R O P E R T I E S w i t h L I T I G AT I O N S a r e N O T A C C E P TA B L E Te l : 51 4 - 5 9 1 - 1 5 0 0 email: addojonathan3@gmail.com Fine West Ventures addojonathan3@gmail.com

province on Wednesday, December 4.

The Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario members also had begun a strike action (workto-rule) throughout the province effective Tuesday, November 26, 2019.

Members of the other teacher unions in province such as the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association (OECTA) voted 97.1% in favour of strike action starting Dec. 21 and, the Ontario teachers in the French-language school system havealso voted 97 per cent in favour of a strike.

The Ontario government announced cuts to education—especially an increase in class sizes and a decrease in the number of teachers. Teachers in the province had their contracts expired in August, 2019 and negotiations with the government to renew their contracts have sticky due to the cuts to education as it happened in the Province during the early years of 2000, In 2003 a former Premier of Ontario urged support for Ontario Teachers.

According to the June 6, 2003 issue of the Toronto Star, an ex-premier of the province pleaded for future of education, urging support for Ontario teachers and describing teaching as the “most relevant profession we have”. The paper reports, “Praising teachers as hard working and deserving of our support, former Ontario premier William Davis made an impassioned plea for the preservation of public education in the province yesterday during the Toronto City Summit Alliance.”

We are enjoying the festivities associated with the end of the year, 2019, however, we do not know what the year 2020 has in store for students, teachers and parents in the Ontario Province of Canada as the conflict between Teacher Unions in the province and the Conservative government led Premier Doug Ford continues.

At the root of the conflict is the question of how much the Conservative government will spend on the province’s schools.

The government has said

it wants to trim education spending in order to help balance the provincial budget.

The Situation as in Ghana: The situation in Ghana though not as turbulent as in Ontario also calls for the same question: Are Teachers Asking for Too Much of the National Cake? It was reported in the news that just before the Christmas holidays (December, 2019) the 3 teacher unions in Ghana declared strike after suspecting that their arrears have been verified and approved for payment by the Controller and Accountant General’s internal audit unit, yet the monies were not released.

The Teacher Unions gave the Ghana Education Service (government) December 5 ultimatum to settle the arrears of teachers affected. The government responded by describing the strike as illegitimate and took to the court to order the teachers back to the classroom.

The Ghana Education Service (GES) was of the view that public funds could not be dissipated to undeserved persons (referring to teachers).

And that management was working hard to clean the data to ensure that only deserved persons were paid by the Christmas as agreed with the conduct of the Teacher Union leaders at a meeting on December 2, 2019. However, the President of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Phillippa Larsen blamed the delay in paying the arrears to the teachers on the GES and said at their press conference that, “We are not prepared to see our teachers suffer as a result of somebody’s negligence.

Our pleas have fallen on deaf ears and the status quo remains. We cannot continue to tolerate this.

Indeed, for how long shall they ignore our members.

The teachers-the purveyors of education, don’t expect us to continue to look on.

We can’t stand this!”

The over 300,000 members of the three major Teacher Unions in Ghana, upon a court order, returned to the classroom just before the Christmas break. However, the Unions public remarks that, “you can take the horse to the riverside but

you cannot force it to drink” underscores the continuous tension between the teachers and the government of the country.

The present government of Ghana has restored allowances to teachers in training and made efforts to “provide incentive packages for teachers, who accepted to work in deprived rural communities.” As much as I would appreciate incentive packages for teachers who work in rural or “needy” communities, I would like to see a comprehensive appraisal and overhauling of conditions of service for teachers to make them more dedicated to the profession they have chosen. This should include in-service training for serving teachers and the prompt payment of arrears to all affected teachers. One would argue, they knew the profession before entering it. It’s a sacrificial job! Well, how long should teachers (obviously, makers of the all workers who build the national economy) be made to sacrificed their welfare and quality of education at the altar of the national cake? Could teachers be asking for too much?

Should our education systems be made to suffer by disagreements between governments and teachers’ unions? Is there any better way of ending teachers’ strikes other than legislating them back to work?

Teachers Deserve Better: The situation is bad.

Students and parents are suffering. Are teachers asking for too much or the Ford government is cutting back too much of its educational funding especially to special education which benefits ‘students-at-risk’ in Ontario? Are teachers in Ghana as in Ontario also asking for too much or is the Ghana government becoming negligent towards the welfare of teachers and the quality of education in that country as a whole?

The best investment any country could make for its younger generation is to invest in quality and inclusive education.

Together we must fight to give our children everywhere the education they need. Knowledge is Power, but ignorance is a disease!

The Ghanaian News December 2019 13

GHANA’S YEAR OF RETURN IS ON ITS WAY TO SUCCESS…..

By Edmund Agbeko, Toronto

showed up in 2018, in fact a mere 15,000 more.

As Bright Simons perfectly pens his thoughts, Ghanaian officials are basking in glory and ecstasy following a very successful marketing and branding campaign for the “Year of Return”, an initiative of the president of Ghana marking a major milestone in the sordid history of black slavery.

The yearlong program has seen throughout 2019 impressive feats of national showcasing: tons of positive international press, amazing gestures of corporate solidarity and fabulous celebrity endorsements, most of it at no cost whatsoever to Ghana. Naomi Campbell, Idris Elba, Boris Cudjoe, Cardi B, even the royal couple of Jay Z and Beyonce, have all won the badge and flown the flag for a delighted Ghana.

So why is Ghanaian officialdom so keen on selling the success of the initiative on the tabletop of incoherent statistics and woolly numbers, instead of better cataloging these clear achievements? It is a very strange sight to behold. Various government agencies and supporters of the Year of Return program have bandied around figures such as “200,000” extra international arrivals; “1.5 million” total number of visitors for 2019; and “$1.9 billion” extra tourist spending as statistical milestones of Year of Return programming, with an incredulous press panting to keep up.

According to Ministry of Finance budgetary computations, average spending per tourist was $1512 in 2014, rising to roughly $1800 in 2018. Let’s pad this to $2000. Though with Cedi exchange rate depreciation outstripping inflation, foreigners should actually find Ghana about 5% cheaper than last year and might spend less. Be that as it may, the “extra spending” that could conceivably be attributed to an increase in arrivals due to the Year of Return (if the projected 1 million visitors estimate holds up and spending per tourist holds steady) would amount to about $30 million in this scenario.

By what conceivable mechanism can a $30 million optimistic projection mutate into $1.9 billion then?

As already hinted, growth in tourist numbers in 2019 may well be below the average 3% per year rate seen over the last couple of years (and certainly below the 5.1% annual growth rate trend experts have projected between 2017 and 2027). There is further grounding for such speculation in the author’s own estimate of a rise in hotel and short-stay apartment rooms inventory, and a fall in average room rates based on his analysis of several weeks of Booking.com (a major travel site) data (the methodology involves simulated bookings for multiple rooms in a single query until the bot hits a ceiling and repeating this multiple times in periodic intervals, a bit like using a sonar).

But all this should really be beside the point since no data-conscious person would insist that every successful marketing exercise must bear immediate fruit. There is almost always a time lag before results materialize. Any sound analysis of the situation would suggest the benefits from the impressive branding effort will reflect in subsequent years, provided the I know most of these officials intend no malice momentum is well managed. and are probably just swooning from all the heady excitement, but before I am pummeled to pulp for The danger in elevating phantom figures to the level being a killjoy, let me hasten to point out that sound of truth is in the complacency they can breed. So data is important for drawing accurate inferences that instead of Ghanaian technocrats muscling up for effective policymaking. Ghanaian policymaking to build on this successful marketing exercise and has been hobbled by fuzzy arithmetic and a plain translate the increased awareness about Ghana and inability of the bureaucracy to commit to evidence- its enduring international goodwill into tangible based decision-making, a situation compounded by a tourism gains, they would instead declare victory on media, academia and policy community that so often all fronts, relying on shaky, unchallenged, numbers feel too overwhelmed to impose “evidence sanity” and then promptly relapse into business as usual. on the system. Whilst raw data is certainly available, So, for instance, instead of focusing on what so induction, deduction, aggregation, extrapolation, and spectacularly went well—the brilliant coopting of inference rarely rely on the most basic standards of data use.

African American celebrities like Steve Harvey as informal brand ambassadors—they would be spending the time luxuriating in fictitious numbers bearing no resemblance to reality. There is worrying precedent to justify this anxiety.

The Year of Return is hardly the first time Ghana has sought to marshall its diaspora branding power.

Officially, the country’s Joseph Project has not been abandoned, following the return to power of the NPP, Ghana’s ruling party, which conceived the project in 2006 as part of the Akwaaba Anyemi initiative.

Here too, the plan was to mobilize international and diapora goodwill for tourism and investment branding purposes taking advantage of the fourth centennial of the commencement of the main bulk of the transAtlantic slave trade and the second centennial of the abolishment of same. Announcements of the imminent construction of major monuments followed similar effusions of massive visitor numbers.

Then as now, a million visitors were projected. Just as was the case when Ghana won the bid to host the African Cup of Nations football tournament (CAN2008). A “million visitors” seem to be a motif of great constancy in the Ghanaian bureaucratic imagination. Delegations were sent to Bermuda, USA, Jamaica, Angola, Cameroon and Nigeria to market the Joseph Project, funded out of a Ministry of Finance allocation of about $60 million.

When the final reckoning came, only 65,000 more visitors arrived in 2007 compared to the previous years and the total tally was a grand 524,613. A similar underwhelming growth rate was recorded for 2008 too. By 2009, growth had dropped to 2%, showing that the momentum generated by both CAN2008 and the Joseph Project had been squandered.

The only reason, therefore, for sounding the alarm about these widely publicized and widely believed numbers is the wish to forestall these precedents from recurring, and to motivate the authorities to see their successful marketing and communications strategies as merely the foundation on which to construct a truly effective sales plan for Ghana’s tourism and investment climate potential.

Everyone is rooting for Ghana’s quest for progress.

But goodwill alone can’t fix weak policymaking rooted in bad data.

Premier Doug Ford attends National Ethnic Press & Media Council’s End of Year Party

The raw data pertinent to this matter makes a very straightforward case. As at last count, 750,000 international visitors had made their way to Ghana in 2019. The Authorities are projecting total arrivals for the year to hit 1 million. This is however doubtful considering the proximity to year-end. But even if the numbers do hit 1 million, that would only mean cont’d from pg. 1 a tiny fraction more than the 984,250 visitors who He added, “today is one of the greatest night in the history of the organization”. He continued by saying that, “the members are cont’d from pg. 1 the organization not only him, and that we ‘’It is important to note that there is a limit to what Santa are going to celebrate can offer. This by no means belittle what Santa gives. whatever we managed to ‘’Santa gives physical and material things like toys to put achieve over the year or a smile on the faces of kids. Pays for the bills of sick kids whatever we missed.” and adults who cannot afford it.

Mr. Saras then touched ‘’Santa sometimes provides food items for people. on the plight of our However, Jesus gives over and above what Santa promises. jailed colleagues all over ‘’Jesus saves you from your sins, gives you hope, peace, the world because of love, joy unspeakable and eternal life. their professional right to inform the public ‘’I believe St Nicholas did what he did because of what and wished all happy Jesus Christ did for him.’’ holidays and concluded, “we are here to support The History of Santa Claus: each other and that we The legend of Santa Claus can be traced back hundreds of have to enjoy the night years to a monk named St. Nicholas. to the fullest.”

It is believed that Nicholas was born sometime around 280 MP Rob Oliphant of A.D. in Patara, near Myra in modern-day Turkey.

Don Valley West who Much admired for his piety and kindness, St. Nicholas was present thanked became the subject of many legends. It is said that he gave away all of his inherited wealth and traveled the countryside NEPMCC for the work they do for ensuring that helping the poor and sick.

Canadians have the right

‘’Emulate Santa Claus and Jesus will love you’’

information at the right time. He pledged the Federal Government’s commitment to having both fair and free press and finding ways to ensure that nation has a vibrant and financially successful media as well. He added that the Government has been studying that for several years and has improved the funding resources of the media through advertising revenue. “You face huge challenges as you do your work for we are listening, we are engaging and supporting you to do the work” he pointed out. He also brought greetings from the Prime Minister, Hon Justin Trudeau and Hon Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Heritage, after which he presented a certificate to NEPMCC.

the NEPMCC for the outstanding contribution to the Multicultural communities across the Greater Toronto Area.

He also said that The Ethnic Press has been around for sometime but the efforts of Mr. Saras has sustained the organization to be stronger as at now and urged all the attendees to give him a big applause.

He also added that nearly 40 percent of Canadians speak another language other than English and French and that makes the work of the Ethnic Press very important.

After his short remarks, he presented a certificate to NEPMCC.

Former Premier Kathleen Wynne and Hon. Michael Coteau, MPPs for Don Valley West and East respectively also graced the occasion.

Hon. Coteau spoke about Mayor Scarpitti of the rebuilding of the Markham also thanked Ontario Liberal Party

and thanked the Ethnic Press for the wonderful work they are doing.

MPPs Aris Babikian, Roman Baber and Sheref Sabawy were also present to support NEMPCC. Hon. Baber spoke about the opportunity Canada offers immigrants- to study, work and operate a business and to be elected to provincial and federal parliament citing himself as a perfect example. He proposed a toast to celebrate the holidays.

MPP Aris Babikian who was a member of NEPMCC before being elected to Queens Park read greetings from Premier Ford and the Ontario Government to NEPMCC. The attendees were treated to 4 course dinner after which a cultural display warmed the hall.

14

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Year of Return: Gov’t urges airlines not to insist on visas from passengers to Ghana

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, is requesting all airlines not to insist on entry visas from passengers travelling to Ghana before boarding.

In a brief to all international airline operators, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Shirley Ayorkor Botchway explained this is to assist with government’s Year of Return initiative till the end of January 2020.

“To facilitate their movement, the government has reduced the visa fees and also introduced the issuance of visa-on-arrival. I am appealing to your airline to support the effectiveness and efficiency of the Ghana Government’s incentives aimed at providing easy access to an entry visa.

“It should be appreciated if those responsible for checking-in passengers travelling to Ghana are advised not to insist on entry visas prior to their boarding,” excerpts of the letter requested.

The government of Ghana has introduced new measures that would enable visitors travelling to Ghana during The Year of Return obtain visaon-arrival. In a circular, the Ghana Embassy in the USA explained this is to manage the pressure on issuing high volumes of visas.

“The new arrangements are expected to simplify check-in procedures for boarding passengers and ease the burden on travellers who are unable to obtain Ghanaian visas in their countries of residence. The new arrangements are valid until January 2020.”

Joy Business had earlier reported on how there has been a scramble for visas at the various consulates and embassies of Ghana across the United States of America with over

15,000 visas so far been processed in New York City alone from the beginning of 2019.

Consul General of the Consulate General of Ghana in New York, USA, Professor Emeritus Samuel Amoako says pressure has mounted on his workers in meeting the huge demand for Ghana visas.

“The Year of Return has put pressure on my staff. From January to September we had already processed about 15,000 visas and as yesterday we had 216 visa applications in a day.

I won’t be surprised if by the end of the year we will have about 20,000 people visiting Ghana,” he told Joy Business.

According to him, the applications are made up of “Ghanaians who have naturalized in America who hold American passports, and also Americans and other nationals who would want to visit Ghana.”

With thousands arriving at the Kotoka International Airport for the Year of Return, there have been questions on the exact returns this initiative will have on Ghana’s tourism prospects.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Tourism, Barbara Oteng-Gyasi has claimed the entire program has raked in $1.9 billion for the Ghanaian economy.

President AkufoAddo has revealed that a program is being structured to take over the Year of Return initiative after it ends in 2019.

At a press engagement on December 13, the president disclosed the ‘Beyond the Year of Return: The Birthright’ has a whole set of outline that aims to continue the mission of bridging the distance between Africans and the diasporans.

“We ought not to make this (Year of Return) a one-off. It should be a permanent feature as part of our outreach both in terms of using it as a vehicle for solidifying the relations on both sides of the Atlantic,” he said.

His comments come after many people have questioned what the country seeks to do after the last Year of Return celebrations roll by.

President Akufo-Addo added that the mission to continue with the Year of Return initiative can also help double the revenue of the Tourism Ministry.

According to him, the relationship between the diasporans and Africans can be institutionalized through ‘Beyond the Year of Return: The Birthright’ created by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and the Ghana Tourism Authority.

Ghana initiated the Year of Return to invite all diasporans back home to not only learn more but explore and even invest in the country.

A total of $1.9 billion has been generated into the economy through activities related to the “Year of Return”.

The Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Barbara Oteng-Gyasi, said the “Year of Return” programme had also brought about an increase of over 200,000 in total arrivals into the country.

She said total arrivals in the country this year stood at about 750,000.

Mrs Oteng-Gyasi was speaking at a ceremony at Anomabo to inaugurate a tourist centre and hand over facilities at the Heroes Garden which has been transformed into a Memorial Garden of Return to boost tourism in the town.

Before the refurbishment exercise, the Heroes Garden had portrait statues of Kwegyir Aggrey, Ekem Ferguson and Nana Amonoo I of Anomabo and now has in addition symbolic statues of people of the African diaspora returning “home”.

The activity is part of the Legacy Project by the ministry to commemorate the “Year of Return.”

The tourist centre will serve as an information centre and provide a welcoming environment for tourists.

Mrs Oteng-Gyasi said the government was working hard to ensure that the country derived optimum benefits from the sector to accelerate development of Anomabo and indeed the country at large.

Citizenship She said further that more than 200 people of the African diaspora had been granted citizenship by the President while land had been offered to encourage many more to return to the motherland.

She added that the year of return had improved relations between the country and the African diaspora while international media coverage of Ghana had been enhanced and high profile The Tourism Ministry visits to the country gone up.

“There has been tremendous outlined numerous community involvement which has activities including the ‘December in Ghana’ stimulated the local economy including events to bring the Year hoteliering, tour operating and other of Return to a fruitful end. related businesses,” she said.

Since this initiative began many African Americans have made their way into the country to learn more about their history. Some include Steve Harvey, Samuel L Jackson, Anthony Anderson, Micheal Jai White, Boris Kodjoe, Nicole Ari Parker, Diggy Simmons and many others.

The programme includes the premiere of Perfect Picture 2, Sankofa Music Festival, Afro Nation, Afrochella, Gold Coast Experience, The Creative Arts show, Ghana Festival of Light and many others.

Myjoyonline.com

Call Us First The Ghanaian News 416-916-3700

Narrative change The Minister of Tourism said the “Year of Return” had cemented Ghana’s panAfrican legacy and had put a global spotlight on the country and helped to position it as a historic, cultural and vibrant hub and had as well changed the narrative of what was reported about Ghana and the rest of Africa in general.

She said the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) had also had indications of a 100 per cent hotel occupancy rate recorded for the last week of November with increased bookings for tours to areas linked to the trans-Atlantic slave trade such as Cape Coast and Elmina.

Year of Return The “Year of Return” is a year-long event of the return of the descendants of the first enslaved Africans from James Town in Accra to James town in Virginia in the United States of America (USA).

Mrs Oteng-Gyasi said the “Year of Return” had been largely successful and established Ghana as a preferred destination for the global African family.

She said the memorial garden and tourist centre at Anomabo was part of the social impact and community development project and part of the of the ‘Year of Return’ programme, adding that it was expected to invigorate local businesses.

She thus urged the community to take full advantage of it.

More sites The Chief Executive of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Mr Kwesi Agyeman, gave an assurance that the authority would work to develop more sites to further boost tourism and urged the people of Anomabo to take good care of the facility.

A representative of the Omanhen of Anomabo, Nana Owiansah, urged the Ministry of Tourism to rehabilitate Fort William and the old Anomabo Palace into a museum. Graphic online

PROMOTING YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS. SO LET’S TALK CALL GHANAIAN NEWS

416-916-3700

The Ghanaian News December 2019 15

U.S. House approves USMCA trade deal WASHINGTON - One day after its historic impeachment votes, the Democratic-led House gave President Donald Trump an overwhelming bipartisan victory Thursday on a renegotiated trade agreement with Canada and Mexico.

By a 385-41 vote, the House approved a bill that puts in place terms of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

The legislation passed after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and her colleagues won key concessions from an administration anxious to pass the trade deal before next year’s election season makes that task more difficult.

The deal is projected to have only a modest impact on the economy. But it gives lawmakers from both parties the chance to support an agreement sought by farmers, ranchers and business owners anxious to move past the months of trade tensions that have complicated spending and hiring decisions.

The GOP-controlled Senate probably will take up the legislation when members return to Washington after the holidays and after dealing with impeachment.

Trump made tearing up the North American Free Trade Agreement a hallmark of his presidential run in 2016 as he tried to win over workingclass voters in states such as Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania.

“Critics said it couldn’t be done, but he made it happen. Another promise made, another promise kept,” said House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif.

Some said the agreement did not do enough to prevent U.S. jobs from relocating to Mexico, but it won praise from Democrats who have routinely voted against prior trade agreements.

“Twenty-six years ago, I opposed NAFTA with every bone in my body,” said Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga. “I never thought the day would come when we would have the opportunity to right some of the wrongs in that agreement.”

Pelosi said the agreement was “light years” ahead of what the administration negotiated with Canada and Mexico.

“We knew we could do better,” Pelosi said.

The original NAFTA phased out nearly all tariffs on goods produced and traded within North America. It was extraordinary because it linked two wealthy, developed countries with a poor, developing country. Since then, trade with Canada and Mexico has increased more rapidly than trade with most other countries.

Democrats for years have charged that NAFTA led to massive losses of highpaying manufacturing jobs in the U.S. as companies moved production to low-

wage Mexico. Trump distinguished himself from free-trade Republicans in the presidential primary with his NAFTA-bashing rhetoric, and his administration got Canada and Mexico to negotiate a rewrite.

The International Trade Commission projected in April that the agreement would boost the economy by $68 billion and add 176,000 jobs six years after taking effect.

Some of the biggest impacts would be felt in the U.S. automotive industry.

The agreement aims to see more cars produced where workers earn an average of at least $16 an hour.

The commission found that the new agreement would create 30,000 jobs in American auto parts plants. On the down side, the commission found the pact would increase the cost of pickup trucks and cars. That would hurt demand and reduce the number of jobs in factories that assemble cars by about 1,500.

Business and farm groups had been hitting the airwaves and the halls of Congress to get lawmakers to support the pact, putting pressure on Democrats to work with the administration even as labour unions remained wary that the new deal represented much of an improvement from NAFTA. Trump, at times, seemed resigned to the assessment that the two sides would never reach a compromise. “She’s incapable of moving it,” Trump said a few weeks ago about Pelosi.

Behind the scenes, Trump’s lead negotiator, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, was working with House Democrats on changes to address their concerns. The agreement includes a process that could lead to inspections of factories and facilities in Mexico that are not living up to labour obligations.

It also secures more than $600 million

President Donald Trump, Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, right, and Mexico’s President Enrique Pena Neto, left, participate in the USMCA signing ceremony, Friday, Nov. 30, 2018 in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

(AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais)

for environmental problems in the NAFTA region. It scrapped giving pharmaceutical companies 10 years’ protection from cheaper competition in a category of ultra-expensive drugs called biologics, which are used to fight such illnesses as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes.

In the end, the AFL-CIO endorsed the pact, as did the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and other major business groups.

Critics said they understood the renegotiated trade deal was an improvement over NAFTA, but they said it wasn’t enough.

“American jobs will still flow to other countries,” said Rep. Bill Pascrell, D-N.J. The deal gave Democrats a chance to show constituents they weren’t focused solely on impeachment, particularly first-term lawmakers such as Reps.

Kendra Horn, D-Okla., and Joe Cunningham, D-S.C. They represent districts won by Trump in 2016.

“I promised the people of the low country I’d come to Washington to work with Democrats and Republicans

in Congress, the White House and anyone else necessary to find bipartisan, common-sense solutions to issues impacting our district,” Cunningham said during debate. He said the bills’ passage “is a major step in that direction.”

Republicans made clear that they weren’t going to allow for an easy pivot.

“The bipartisan nature of this deal that we are here discussing today cannot cover up what happened on this floor last night,” said Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyo. Some Republicans also grumbled that Democrats took too long to get the agreement across the finish line, but many were quite happy with the result.

Rep. Mike Kelly, R-Pa., said the pact reminded him of when he would write a letter to Santa, and it would be answered with most of the presents he wanted on Christmas morning.

“This is certainly one of those times when the letter to Santa Claus actually got answered,” Kelly said. --Kevin Freking, The Associated Press

Kweku Adoboli talks freedom, Ghana’s payment systems, a year after deportation Fraudster and rogue trader were descriptions that painted headline stories about Ghanaian-born Kweku Adoboli, a former trader of Swiss banking giant, UBS, who got entangled in the middle of what has gone down in history as Britain’s largest unauthorized trading loss of £1.4bn.

It’s been a year since Adoboli was deported to Ghana upon serving four of his sevenyear sentence. Mr Adoboli’s second public appearance was when he took his turn at the 2019 Ted X event where he spoke under the topic of the “Year of Return”.

“Here I am being given this incredible opportunity to speak on the Ted x platform.

And for me, that’s a reflection of the mood of the country in terms of where we’re trying to go. And the year of return is central to that right. For so many reasons, Year of Return is important. It’s important for global community reasons. The Diaspora needs to know that ultimately, they came from Africa. And we have taken that honour of

inviting them home. And that’s important.”

He added, “But it’s also about creating the community that will help to generate financing to generate ideas to create opportunities for Ghanaians and also generally the diaspora around the world. The year of return is a brilliant program because it has raised our profile of Ghana’s profile.

It’s raised our profile. But at the same time, it’s also helped Diasporas around the world to feel a connection back to Ghana in Africa.

And that’s important especially where the world is today,” he told JoyBusiness.

Sense

of

freedom

Been in the middle of immigration tussles and deportation upon serving four years of a seven-year sentence for a £1.4 billion fraud at Swiss bank UBS, Mr Adoboli told JoyBusiness coming home was freedom.

“I spent seven years fighting the system in the U.K - three and a half years in prison. Then

three and a half years after that trying to do positive work trying to avoid being deported the entire time my freedom was restricted.

The UK government tried to tell me I couldn’t work, but for everything I had to do, I had to fight and then right at the end the manipulation that was used to shut me down and put me on the plane just reinforced the fact that I was not free.

And although I had fought and I didn’t want to leave my people back in the UK, one thing I do know is the fact that I’m standing here one year on talking to you is a reflection of the fact that I am free… even my friends back in the UK have all accepted that this is a much better place for us to be than fighting against the British government back in the UK. So that’s why I feel free.”

Adoboli’s focus one year on after deportation Having “forgiven, healed and matured”, KwekuAdoboli tells JoyBusiness his prospects cont’d on pg. 28

16

The Ghanaian News December 2019

IMMIGRATION AND SOCIAL ISSUES

By: James A. Kwaateng, B.A. (Hons), LLB (Hons)

Benefits and Problems Associated with Dual Citizenship in Ghana Revisited assets from either country.

The entitlement to convey nationality to offspring is perhaps the most important benefit enjoyed by dual citizenship holders.

This topic is being revisited in view of the fact that many Ghanaian-born Canadians have now acquired dual citizenship or express the desire to be dual citizens. The citizenship Act 2000 allows a citizen of Ghana to hold the citizenship of any other country in addition to his or her Ghanaian citizenship.

Dual citizenship confers several rights and privileges on the holder. It gives the individuals the right to obtain passports from either country of citizenship. A Ghanaian dual citizenship holder will be entitled to apply for a Ghanaian passport despite the fact he or she might be holding the passport of another country.

Dual citizenship could, in effect, be viewed as a simplified procedure for individuals to visit former homelands for extended periods of time without any headache. For example, Ghanaians holding dual citizenship are permitted to remain in Ghana without limitation provided they enter Ghana on a Ghanaian passport and not on a foreign

passport. It should however be noted that a dual citizenship holder can be charged with an offence if he uses two passports interchangeably and the Immigration is of the view that it is being done to deceive an immigration officer.

Dual citizenship also creates the opportunity to pursue employment opportunities in either country of nationality.

Thus, by virtue of being a citizen of the countries, the dual citizenship holder would be allowed to work in the countries without work permit. He could also be entitled to social benefits, own land or property and to inherit

Despite the foregoing advantages, dual citizenship has its own problems of which “divided loyalty’ is one.

That the person holding dual nationality would contribute fairly and equally to the countries of his nationality by way of national service, taxation and in some other respects is an unrealistic and unreasonable expectation.

Also, some domestic legal issues such as custody and inheritance disputes could be complicated when a dual national is involved as the laws of the countries of nationality might be in conflict with each other.

The Government of Ghana has a policy of discriminating against dual citizens in certain respects and this has been under debate for some time now. A citizen of Ghana who also holds the citizenship of

any other country in addition to his citizenship of Ghana, does not qualify to hold several appointments among which are: an appointment as a Chief Justice and a Justice of Supreme Court; an Ambassador or a High Commissioner; a Secretary to the Cabinet; a Chief of Defence Staff; an Inspector-General of Police; a Commissioner, customs Excise and Preventive Service; and a Director of Immigration Service.

In addition, the dual citizenship holder can also not be a Commissioner, Value Added Service; a Director-General of Prisons Service; a Chief Fire Officer; a Minister or Deputy Minister; a Chief Director of Ministry; a rank of Colonel in the Army or its equivalent in other security services; and any other public offices that the Minister for Interior may by legislative instrument prescribe.

Holding dual citizenship, no doubt, gives the citizen some sense of belonging and security while in Ghana. That

notwithstanding, the current Dual Citizenship Act that bars dual citizens from holding certain high public offices does not, in this regard, seem to treat dual citizens on an equal footing as the other Ghanaians.

Several dual citizenship holders complain about this discriminatory treatment but the Government could cite reasons of “divided loyalty and allegiance” and “national security” to justify the policy of excluding such persons from holding certain “sensitive” positions. The reasonableness and justification of the Government’s policy of “exclusion” may depend on how one perceives fairness and equality as balanced against loyalty to a nation and national security.

James A. Kwaateng is an Immigration Law practitioner with offices located at 168A Oakdale Road, Suite 4, Toronto, Ontario. For thorough discussion of your immigration and related social and legal issues, contact him at telephone number (416) 743-2758.

Mayor John Tory, Councilor Perruzza, MPP Rakocevic fetes residents of 235 Gosford Blvd, North York

By Jonathan Baah Annobil, Toronto

On Thursday 19th December, 2019, Mayor John Tory, Councilor Anthony Perruzza, MPP Tom Rakocevic, the Christian Centre and neighbors put smiles on the faces of the displaced residents of 235 Gosford Boulevard Apartments on 4545 Jane Street, North York.

It was attended by most of the residents. Santa Claus was on hand to distributes gifts to the kids who attended the party.

On Friday, 15th November 2019, about 700 residents of the 15 storey 235 Gosford Boulevard Apartment building were displaced in a deadly five-alarm blaze which resulted in 1 death and 6 injured tenants. Firefighters had to rescue 6 people from the burning building in North York. At the time of writing this report some units have cleared to be reoccupied.

The rest are in hotels after being sheltered in community centers as well as a shelter at York University temporarily.

Toronto Fire are still investigating what caused the blaze.

Residents receiving Christmas gifts

MPP Tom Rakocevic and Jones Karikari

From left: Jones Karikari, Mayor John Tory, Resident and Councilor Perruzza

Toronto Police serving pizza to residents

The Ghanaian News December 2019 17

Don’t Let Christmas Sеnd You Intо Debt

BY AJAY OBEROI

Chrіѕtmаѕ rеаllу саn be thе mоѕt wоndеrful time of thе year. It саn аlѕо bе the mоѕt ѕtrеѕѕful аnd expensive. If money’s tоо tight tо mеntіоn at the mоmеnt, уоu mіght wish уоu соuld skip the whole fіаѕсо аltоgеthеr!

Aѕ thе holiday season аррrоасhеѕ, mаnу оf us mау get саrrіеd away trуіng tо give оur fаmіlу and frіеndѕ еvеrуthіng wе thіnk thеу wаnt, аnd mоrе. Gеnеrоѕіtу drives our actions and оur dесіѕіоnѕ.

Unfоrtunаtеlу, it саn also drive uѕ into debt.

Luckily, thеrе аrе lоtѕ of ways tо ѕіdе-ѕtер any potential dеbt hangover once thе Christmas dесоrаtіоnѕ аrе long packed аwау Put together a budget and stick tо іt!

Aѕ soon аѕ you can, gаthеr tоgеthеr all of thе figures fоr

уоur incomings and оutgоіngѕ аnd рut thеm іntо a budget, thіѕ саn gо a lоng wау of bеіng dеbt frее аftеr Christmas.

Onсе thіѕ is dоnе, tаkе a look at whаt уоu have lеft over once уоu’vе соvеrеd уоur bіllѕ, living соѕtѕ, and dеbt rерауmеntѕ. Yоu should nоw hаvе аn іdеа whаt you hаvе аvаіlаblе for Christmas рrеѕеntѕ аnd оthеr festive еxреnѕеѕ.

Stay off unрlаnnеd оvеrdrаftѕ The реnаltіеѕ thаt can come wіth unрlаnnеd overdrafts саn bе huge. If уоu muѕt uѕе an оvеrdrаft, juѕt tаlk tо your bank fіrѕt tо mаkе ѕurе you

dоn’t рісk uр аnу fіnеѕ.

Suggest a Secret Santa Onе wау to сut dоwn оn

TM

present-buying hаѕѕlе іѕ to ѕuggеѕt that the family or уоu аnd уоur closest friends hаvе a ‘secret Santa’. Inѕtеаd of buying presents fоr іndіvіduаl реорlе, you соuld аgrее оn аn аffоrdаblе lіmіt аnd уоu оnlу have tо рurсhаѕе оnе рrеѕеnt.

Yоu mау еvеn find thаt уоur fаmіlу оr frіеndѕ аrе in a similar роѕіtіоn аnd wіll be grateful for уоur suggestion.

Cut thе Christmas саrdѕ Cards саn be аn expensive раrt of Chrіѕtmаѕ. You buу them for fаmіlу, you buу thеm fоr frіеndѕ. Thеn you ѕее them being handed аrоund at wоrk аnd уоu ѕtаrt to fееl thе рrеѕѕurе оf buуіng them fоr еvеrуоnе in thе office too.

Make One Small Monthly Payment For all Your DEBTS!

Instead оf sending саrdѕ which, lеtѕ be hоnеѕt, аrе juѕt gоіng tо еnd uр in thе lаndfіll fоr thе next thousand уеаrѕ, you could ѕеnd e-cards instead.

Take uр some temporal wоrk

Ask Yourself?

Are you using your Overdraft all the time?

Are creditors constantly Threatening & Harassing you at home or at work?

Are you struggling to pay your Rent, Mortgage or Car Payment?

Are your financial difficulties the cause of your Marriage or Health Problems?

Do you think your Credit Rating is in jeopardy forever?

Are you afraid of Losing your car, house, RRSP, Stocks or any other assets?

Do you have Court Orders against you?

Are you having any trouble with Government (CRA) about personal tax or any other tax issues?

If your answered “Yes” to any of the above questions then you should contact us for a Private & Confidential meeting with one of our Counsellor

416 650 1100 Scarborough 201-4433 Sheppard Ave. E Scarborough, ON, M1S 1V3

Toronto/Downtown 800-120 Eglinton Ave. E Toronto, ON, M4P 1E2

North York 306-1280 Finch Ave.W North York, ON, L5A 1W7

Mississauga 110-93 Dundas Street E. Mississauga, ON, L5A TW7

Proudly Served over 15,000 Families since 2004

Visit : GtaCredit.com

Brampton 201-7990 Kennedy Rd, South, Brampton, Ontario L6W 083

Ajay Oberoi

Credit Counsellor

Lоtѕ оf ѕhорѕ, rеѕtаurаntѕ аnd wаrеhоuѕеѕ wіll rесruіt fоr tеmроrаrу ѕtаff over Chrіѕtmаѕ. Thіѕ саn bе a great орроrtunіtу tо make some еxtrа money durіng thе festive period.

Avoid hіgh APRѕ As wіth unplanned оvеrdrаftѕ, short-term ‘рауdау’ lоаnѕ аnd credit саrdѕ can ԛuісklу become vеrу еxреnѕіvе. Pауіng interest оn any рurсhаѕе іѕn’t іdеаl, but bе sure tо ѕtееr clear оf thе mоrе еxреnѕіvе оffеrѕ оf credit, еvеn іf уоu really nееd thеm.

Use Credit Cаrd Rеwаrdѕ Yоu саn get some hеlр wіth уоur Christmas hоlіdау соѕtѕ bу using your Dіѕсоvеr саrd to рау for everyday purchases уеаr-rоund. Thіѕ hеlрѕ you еаrn valuable Cashback Bоnuѕ rеwаrdѕ оn еvеrу рurсhаѕе.

Your Cаѕhbасk Bоnuѕ nеvеr еxріrеѕ, and you саn rеdееm уоur rеwаrdѕ аt аnу tіmе in a vаrіеtу of wауѕ. Dероѕіt уоur Cаѕhbасk Bоnuѕ to уоur bаnk ассоunt оr rеdееm a ѕtаtеmеnt сrеdіt tо оffѕеt уоur ѕреndіng.

In case of you have credit or debt issues visit www. gtacredit.com or call 416 650 1100

18

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Ghanaian Congregation of St. Andrews Roman Catholic Church 2019 Christmas Party

By Jonathan Baah Annobil, Toronto

Owusu-Afryie prayed before the serving of had a rollicking time as they danced to music The Ghanaian congregation of the St. Andrews dinner. Lots of fun games as well dancing provided by DJ Shorty. MCs for the event were Roman Catholic Church held its 2019 Christmas competition were held with winners getting Gifty K. Appiah and Joachim Duodu party at the Toronto Grand banquet & Convention prizes. After the dinner, members and guests Centre on Sunday December 22, 2019. Deacon

Fr. Alex Osei and a guest Clergy’s high table Hospitality team

Sunday School children singing Carols at Church before the party

MCs Gifty K. Appiah (left) and Joachim Duodu ( 2nd right) and Youth dancers

The Ghanaian News December 2019 19

GCAO alias Ghana Union Final Council Meeting 2019 - Report

By Emmanuel Duodu, Toronto

Roundtable delibrations Executives of GCAO

Dec 15th, 2019, GhanaianCanadian Association of Ontario (GCAO) alias Ghana Union executives, council members, Clergy representatives, and board of advisors, association

representatives had its last meeting of the year 2019 at Ghana Presbyterian Church atrium in Toronto.

The meeting afforded the leadership team to

review what was done in 2019 and highlight 2020 goals and objectives.

The invocation was offered by Mr. Eugene Kotey a member of the board of advisors.

The President, Emmanuel C. Duodu summed up the year as ‘ good, the bad and the ugly’. He started with the bad and ugly as some of the untimely deaths of some of our community members,

the incarceration of our youth. He drew a sobering contrast of the deaths in our community of the age range of 45-65 in Greater Toronto area and while funerals based on deaths in Ghana ranges from 70-100.

He was of the view that while our community is vertically setup –cultural associations based on where we come from in Ghana, different denominations of Churches (the verticals as he called it) he was the view that we need to pay attention to issues that are horizontal as in unemployment, health and wellness, youth violence, mental health seniors issues etc. These issues that cut across associations and churches and he counselled our community to unite behind the verticals to effectively address these issues.

Mr. Duodu took some time to share his concern on the late night Funeralsand the impact on our community health and safety. With our community aging and the impact of too late night events and the associated late indulgence, he is worried that it does take its toll on people. He is hoping that common sense will prevail when we start talking about the need to start at 8:00 pm and end at midnight. He is hoping to draw leaders from the renters, DJs, MCs, videographers and community leaders to come out with MOU to try to effect change. It will be hard but we need start from somewhere.

On the side of the good, Emmanuel Duodu thanked the leaders for their responses in dealing with community issues and for the leadership in their various associations and churches in fostering camaraderie and building strong community. We have had our share of community issues and time and time again the community has risen to the occasion.

Mr. Larry Kutuadu the Treasurer provided a summary account of the Ghanaian-Canadian Heritage Center project.

He also mentioned that cont’d on pg. 31

20

The Ghanaian News December 2019

KFS

TAXES Individuals Business

Charity/Non Profit

Kidoo Financial Services Contact us for your

INSURANCE

Life, Disability/Self-employed

Critical Illness INVESTMENTS RRSP

Guaranteed Investment Funds

RESP (Educational savings)

Kwabena Ntim Andoh, BSc MBA

23 WESTMORE DR., # 301B, Etobicoke, ON, M9V 3Y7 DEBT MANAGEMENT Tel/Fax: 416-551-1902

Credit cards * Line of Credits, etc.

Cell: 647-405-8852 MORTGAGES Email: Kidoo@rogers.com

Consultations * Loan

ARE YOU BUILDING IN GHANA

?

We produce, supply and install Precast Concrete Floors for storey buildings in Ghana.

URBAN KWIK FLOOR SYSTEM Quick, Neat and Saves Cost by up to 30%

Contact us also for your Building

Plans in Ghana.

C O N TA C T U S

028 822 7031 020 404 4501 905 781 8434 urbcrete@yahoo.com www.urbanconcreteltd.com Head Office: No. 8 Isaac Street, Kwabenya, Accra, Ghana.

Financial Tips • Review your investments ( RRSP, RESP, Mortgage, Insurance) regularly with your advisor • Learn how to come up with a simple household budget • Manage your debts before they take over your life • Contact me to help you achieve your financial goals

The Ghanaian News December 2019 21

The Sterling quality you expect.... the Sterling service you deserve!

Helen Sterling Clarke, B.A.J.D, LL.B Lead Family Lawyer and Mediator

Offering 26 years of excellence in all areas of Family Law including Custody, Access, Child and Spousal Support, Divorces, Separation Agreements, Fertility and Surrogacy Agreements, the International Removal of Children and Other High Conflict Matters

Tel: 905-793-0557 Fax: 905-793-0560 helen@sterlinglaw.ca www.sterlinglaw.ca New Address: 2 County Court Boulevard, Unit 225, Brampton, Ontario, L6W 3X7

Dr. Martin La-Kumi | B.SC., M.SC., D.D.S., ICOI Modern Dentistry

A Trusted Dental Surgeon for Over 30 Years

For the Whole Family

MAKE YOUR ORAL HEALTH YOUR #1 PRIORITY TODAY! Reset Your Smile

Refresh Your Breath

Gain-More Confidence

Walk-Ins, New & Emergency Patients Welcome Complete General Family, Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry in a Safe Environment • White Fillings & Full-Mouth Rehabilitation • Wisdom Teeth Removal & Dentures • Snoring & Sleep Apnea Devices • Night guards & Sports guards • All Insurance & Student Plans Accepted • Evening & Saturday Appointments Available

• Teeth Whitening • Gum Disease Treatment • Oral Surgery & Implants • Veneers, Crowns & Bridges • Root Canal & Fresh Breath Therapy • 10% Senior Discount (hey, you deserve it!)

We Have An In-House Dental Lab for Same-Day Denture Repairs!

Call Now For A FREE Consultation!

416-663-3131 1280 Finch Avenue West, Suite 614, North York, Ontario M3J 3K6 www.voltadental.com info@voltadental.com (Near Finch West Subway @ Keele)

We Guarantee a Superior Dental Experience Child-Friendly & Comfortable Environment That Your Whole Family Can Smile About

Visit Our World-Class Accredited Facilities

Advertising in The Ghanaian News WORKS CALL NOW 416-916-3700

22

The Ghanaian News December 2019

AFRICAN By Nature SALES! SALES! SALES

African Design for Fashion and more *African Fabric * Lace * Clothing * Accessories * Shoes * Children Clothing * Bags * And more

Lace $35 each 3 for $100, 5 yards French lace and Void Lace 5 yards $100 Wax Print 6 yards from $10 and Up Cord Lace 5 yards for $50

Tel: 416-399-3601

Email: africanbynature@hotmail.com

7215 Goreway Dr, 2nd Floor, Unit 2B01, Mississauga, ON

Afro Caribbean Foods Now Opens in Hamilton Caribbean Tropical Grocers Inc.

(Formerly India Africa) Specials for This Month

Anchor Mackerel - $1.00 special

For All Your Grocery Needs Contact 905-526-4877 1439 Upper Ottawa St., Unit 16-18 Hamilton, Ontario

Indome - $15.99 per box

Also in store specials: Fresh Yams, Smoke Fish, Exeter Corned Beef and Beauty Supply Phoenicia Sardine - 4 for $6.00

2 Locations To Serve You 70 Devon Road (Airport Rd./Clark) Brampton 905-458-5004

2121 Jane St. Toronto, Ontario Tel: 416-241-5435

The Ghanaian News December 2019 23

24

The Ghanaian News December 2019

CONSULATE-GENERAL OF THE REPUBLIC OF GHANA- TORONTO

PUBLIC NOTICE RELOCATION! RELOCATION! RELOCATION The Consulate-General of the Republic of Ghana in Toronto is pleased to inform the general public that with effect from 2nd December, 2019, relocated its Chancery from 4665 Yonge Street #205-206, North York to 8977 Woodbine Avenue, Markham.

All clients of the Consulate-General may, therefore, take note of the change of address and direct correspondence and applications for Consular Service to the new address.

The Consulate-General may also be contacted by the following: Tel : 365-608-5007 Fax : 905-604-1906 Email : ghanaconsulate@rogers.com The sketch below may assist clients visiting the Consulate-General:

8977 Woodbine Avenue, Markham, ON, L3R 0J9

Internet-based 911 calling on the horizon; aim is to enhance response Emergency services will have to soon ensure they can pinpoint the location of people calling 911 for help on their cellphones.

The technically complex shift mandated

by Canada’s telecommunications regulator to what’s called Nextgeneration 9-1-1 - or NG9-1-1 - should allow for a faster, more accurate system in which eventually data, photos, videos and text messages can flow.

a speech impediment can text 911 services from a cellphone, but they have to register in advance, connect with 911 by voice call, then text. The general public cannot use texts for emergency services. That, too, will be changing in the coming year, with text becoming available to everyone with a smart phone.

“Canadians could eventually stream video from an emergency incident, send photos of accident damage or a fleeing suspect, and send personal medical information, including accessibility needs, which could greatly aid emergency responders,” the CRTC says.

Currently, 911 dispatchers ask callers where they are. Landlines are tied to a physical address, while for cellphones, a process known as triangulation of cell towers can approximate a caller’s location to the nearest known road intersection.

New Brunswick, among provincial leaders when it comes to implementing the new 911 technology, has come up with a civic address system that has improved support for current 911 operations and paved the way for Nextgeneration 9-1-1 services.

Problems can arise if cellphone callers don’t know where they are, or are unable to speak or hear. Dispatchers might only know a caller’s location within a couple of hundred metres, which can hinder response times.

Diane Pelletier, director of New Brunswick’s NB 911 Bureau, said the goal in any emergency is to get the right assets to the right location fast. New processes and tools were improving road data exchange with the province’s three most populous cities, and more municipalities were expected to get on board within months, she said.

Essentially, every connected phone will have an internet protocol address, which will be cross-referenced with key data sets mostly supplied by municipalities. The database will comprise every street address in an area and the entry location of buildings.

Emergency service boundaries will also be accessible to ensure the right responders are dispatched.

The result should allow the 911 system to pinpoint the location of callers to within centimetres.

“We’re getting down to the metre, submetre accuracy,” Brossault said.

Currently, people who are deaf or have

ISLINGTON NORTH CHIROPRACTIC Dr. M. Agyemang, B.Sc. (Hons.), D.C.

Chiropractic & Rehabilitation NOW INTRODUCES: SPINAL DECOMPRESSION THERAPY STATE OF THE ART TREATMENT FOR: 1. Protruding and Herniating Discs 2. Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) 3. Spinal Root Impingment 4. Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD) 5. Compression Fractures

Once fully implemented, NG9-1-1 will go well beyond talking or texting.

“People mistakenly assume that when using a cellphone they’ll automatically know where you are because of GPS capabilities inherent in that type of device,” says Alex Brossault, a data program manager with the city of Guelph, Ont. “The truth of the matter is that it’s not exactly pinpoint.”

NG9-1-1 aims to get around the problems by shifting to a new internetbased system. The Canadian Radiotelevision and Telecommunications Commission has ordered the new system in place for voice calls by June 2020 and for texts by December 2020.

The Ghanaian News December 2019 25

“We can give our emergency service partners like police, firefighters and paramedics even more up-to-date information about the road network to help them get to the caller as quickly as possible,” Pelletier said.

We also offer these services: 1. Motor Vehicle Accident

2. Extended health care

3. Soft tissue massage

4. Custom made orthotics

Tel: 905-264-8010

CLINIC HOURS: Mondays 9:30am - 6:00pm Tuesdays 9:30am - 8:00pm Wednesdays: 9:30am - 6:00pm Thursdays 9:30am - 6:00pm Fridays 9:30 am -1:00pm Saturday 10:00am - 1:00pm

7007 ISLINGTON AVE., UNIT 14, Woodbridge, Ont, L4L 4T5

(North-East corner of Islington/Steeles)

MALTON PHYSIO Spine Clinic & Chronic Pain Centre Physiotherapy & Massage Clinic Eric Agyarko, Clinic Director

Overall, the regulator says, the move from analog systems to IP-based systems should improve the ability of emergency responders to deal with call overload situations, natural disasters and improve responses.

Types of Services Provided • • • • • •

In addition, the technology could eventually allow people to make 911 calls from instant messaging apps or even Facebook. The system could also manipulate GPS data say from a car’s navigation system to allow dispatchers to find someone who has crashed.

The CRTC wants the current 911 system to be fully retired by 2023.

The Canadian Press

Call Us First The Ghanaian News 416-916-3700

Fax: 905-264-9010

Physiotherapy & Massage Home Health Care Accupuncture & WSIB/Private Spinal Decompression Therapy Extended Health Care Work Conditions Program

HOURS OF OPERATION Monday to Friday - 10 am to 6 pm Saturdays by Appointment Only Sundays - Closed 905-672-1333 Cell: 416-888-3349 Fax: 905-672-1332 Email: maltonspine@gmail.com

Tel:

3427 Derry Rd. East, Suyite 204, Mississauga, ON, L4T 4H7

26

The Ghanaian News December 2019

African Caribbean Groceries Inc 63 Dundas West, Mississauga, Ont

Tel: 905-281-9515 Business Hours

Monday - Wednesday - 10:00am - 8:00pm Thursday - Friday - 10:00am - 9:00pm Saturday - 9:30am - 6:30pm Sunday - 12:30pm - 5:30pm

63 Dundas West of Hurontario

Kaf African Caribbean Market

PROMOTING

Tel: 905-855-3595

401 or 403 to South on Erin Mills Pkwy,

* POTATO FLAKES

* OX HEAD SCENTED RICE

*GRACE KENNEDY SCENTED RICE

*GARI

*ALREADY MIXED FUFU

*ADWENE

*KONKONTE

* FRESH PONA YAMS *ASANKA

*QUALITY ZOMI

*BODIE FUFU

*PALM SOUP

*KOOBI

*GHANA BREAD *SHITO

VISIT OUR FISH

MARKET AND BUTCHER SHOP We open 7 days a week. We also deliver

OUR BEAUTY AND HAIR PRODUCTS One of the Largest Selection

Tel:

416-288-9330

2069 Lawrence Ave. E. Scarborough, Ont.

416-916-3700

Opposite CEEKTEX

Specializing In African and Caribbean Food & Hair Products

Open 7 Days A Week * Amane * Palm Oil * Atadwe * Adwene * Zomi Oil *Werewere * Fufu * Fish * Momone * Alata Samina * Rice * Fresh Yam * Nkuto * Garden Eggs * Goat Meat * Apem * Koobi * Shito * Kenkey * Geisha * Kpako * Gari * Kokonte * Asanka

Twins Sister Tel: 416-235-1470 Cell: 647-448-3241 Email. new.kantamantomarket@gmail.com

266 Eddystone Ave, North York, Ont. M3N 1H7

Xpress Tropical Foods & Meat African and Caribbean Grocery Store

* WHITE CORN FLOUR *POTATO STARCH

NEWS

WHOLESALE AND RETAIL MOVED TO A NEW LOCATION

Specializing in African, Caribbean, Asian & Canadian Foods

*ACCRA KENKEY WHITE CORN MEAL

GHANAIAN

New Kantamanto Market

UNCLE SETH TROPICAL FOODS

CALL

2642 Liruma Rd, #2A, Mississauga, Ont.,

5010 Steeles Ave. W., Unit 2B, Etobicoke (Steeles/Kipling)

TALK

LOCATION:

Tel: 416-745-5928

*WHITE RICE

SO LET’S

Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Mon-Sat. 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sun.

For All Your Family Grocery Needs

BUSINESS.

MONEY TRANSFER THROUGH MONEYGRAM

We Carry All Your Tropical Grocery Items

We are open 7 Days a week.

Sundays from 12 noon to 6:00 pm

IS OUR

We are wholesalers and distributors of smoke fish

Exit West on Dundas, 2nd light left Liruma Road, Behind Mr. Lube

* Fresh Ghana Yam (Pona) * Palm Oil * Titus Sardine * Exeter Corned Beef * Accra Kenkey * Akwaabi * Fresh Garden Eggs * Red Snapper And much more at discount prices

BUSINESS

We specialize in African, Caribbean Groceries: *Gari Pounded *Yam *Vegetable Salad *Fufu *Potato Starch *Stock Fish *Salted Fish *Smoked Fish *Cerelac *Rice *Bournvita *Milo *Corned Beef *Phone Cards *Cosmetics *Goat meat and many more

Mississauga, Ontario

Central Market

YOUR

* Fresh Ghana Yams (Pona) The * Palm Oil * Titus Sardine Lowest * Exeter Corned Beef Prices * Accra Kenkey in * Akwaabi * Fresh Garden Eggs Town * Red Snapper * And much more at discount prices Denton * Red Snapper * Tilapia * King Fish Steak * Mackerell

We are open Monday - Friday: 9 am to 8 pm Saturday: 9:30 a.m. to 8.00 p.m.

Tel: 416-249-7007 1712 Jane Street, Toronto (Jane/Lawrence)

The Ghanaian News December 2019 27

M A K O L A Tropical Foods

THE SUPERMARKET IN THE HEART OF ACCRA-GHANA IS NOW HERE IN THE HEART OF TORONTO QUALITY FOODS

BEST PRICES IN TOWN

fresh yam * plantain * cocoyam * adwene* koobi * abodoi * egusi * gari * konkonte * goat meat * fufu * kenkey * snails * herrings *sugar bread etc. etc.

2400 FINCH AVE. W., UNIT 2C NORTH YORK, ONT., M3N 2M6

Tel: 416-244-4496

NEW ERA MART LTD. AFRICAN & WEST INDIAN GROCERIES

Quality Zome * Yams (Pona) * Gari * Konkonte * Goat Meat * Adwene * Maggi Cubes * Prekese Tel:

416-740-7955

Fax: 416-749-8536

Email: ben@the-wire.com

1148 Albion Road. Etobicoke, Ont. (at Islington)

Mercies African Supermarket We Specialize in African Caribbean Groceries & much more...

* Red Snapper * Adwene * Mackerel * Goat Meat * Palm Oil * Creams & Lotions * Egusi * Braids Open 7 Days * Fresh Ghana Yams * Gels * King Fish Steak A Week Business Hours Monday - WEDNESDAY - 10 am - 8:00 pm THURSDAY - SATURDAY - 10 Am - 8:30 pm SUNDAYS - 12:30 PM - 5 PM

Tel: 905-846-2897

15 Brisdale Drive (Bovaird Dr. W. & Brisdale Drive)

Atwima Marfo Enterprise

(Formerly East-End Tropical Market) WE ARE MOVING TO A NEW LOCATION

200 Bellamy Rd. North Plaza (Opposite Esso gas station)

Call Us First

* African Yam * Chicken * Box of Mackerel * Burnt Goat * Red Mullet * Ram Goat Meat * Carnation Milk * Black Soap

* Obaatan Pa Mackerel * Goat Head * Clean Tilapia * Box of Red Snapper * Ackees * Chicken Legs * Grace Soup Mix

* Roasted Hard * African Snapper * Shea Butter * King Fish Steak * Goudas White Rice * Pig Tail * Yellow Yam

WAAKYE - WEEK-END SPECIAL - $5.99 (TAKE-OUT)

The Ghanaian News 416-916-3700

Guranteed Lowest Prices on All African Foods Videos and CDs

Cosmetics Tel: 416-286-0516

28

The Ghanaian News December 2019

“Spoofed calls? vishing and phishing, be careful” “Don’t talk to thieves in 2020”

By: Stephen Armah Quaye

In 2018, a Canada Broadcasting Corporation [CBC] marketplace investigation into the CRA phone scam tracked the calls to a call center in Mumbai, India.

Scammers have become ever more sophisticated these days therefore the utmost need for the public to stay up to date and protect themselves from all sorts of scams next year 2020.

Last year 2018 alone, cyber crimes, telephone scam which is now termed “spoofed calls” cost roughly 4,000 victims about $15.2 million in Canada alone according to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police [RCMP].

A careful study of the CAFC’s open data indicates that it received more than 22,000 complaints specifically about the Canada Revenue Authority CRA spoofed scams.

When a stranger made a call on John Joseph cell phone, little did he know the fraud being caused against him.

With his bag on his back, untrimmed beard fit for a womb broom that can seave foaming beer, Emmanuel Sam dashed down on a walk way, begged John Joseph and made a desperate call for help.

Panting for breath, as if he was chased by a monster, Emmanuel Sam pleaded, “Hello my friend please let me your cell phone to make a call for help”. Sure John Joseph didn’t hesitate, “here you go take it and make your call.”

A sympathetic move turned to victimisation of John Joseph in a “spoofed call” still being battled out.

The thief, contacted an accomplice and broke the password on John Joseph’s phone, stole his bank account numbers and together with his accomplice siphoned twenty hundred bucks from his account.

WHAT IS VISHING AND PHISHING? Vishing or telephone scam, only takes place when a scammer calls you up on your landline or mobile phone pretending to be from your bank, building society or a government agency and will fish for information from you, so they can steal your money or collect information, so they can use your identity to commit fraud elsewhere.

Whiles Phishing is an email scam where you appear to get a message from a legitimate source, such as your bank, Canada Revenue Agency, Immigration Canada, RCMP, Customs, pay pal, Apple or Amazon.

According to the statistics, by the end of the year 2018, the center had recorded 1,492 victims who were bilked out of $6.4 million Canadian dollars.

WHAT THE STATISTICS TELLS US Looking at the statistics so far made available through press releases by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and reported by the Globe and Mail, readers will agree with me that scams or scammers have become ever more sophisticated using telecommunication devices to commit all sorts of crimes now than ever before.

A deep look at the statistics begs of the question how many individuals, companies, businesses, agencies and government officials and their agencies would be scammed in decades to come in our beautiful country Canada if we continue to lose guard and allow Vishing and Phishing to continue unabated.

Now I believe you are no more shocked about the scenario you read earlier on as the RCMP has also cautioned citizens about Vishing and Phishing where sophisticated scammers might siphon huge sums of money from their accounts through spoofing.

WHAT TO DO?

The message will encourage you to click a link and log into your account, normally by telling you your account has been blocked or there is large transfer money.

If you are sure the call is fraudulent, just hang-up the phone. If you are not sure, hang-up the phone and call your bank, building society or the number on your debit credit card.

Another version of this scam involves an email attachment [perhaps a coupon or form you need to fill] which is in fact a computer virus.]

This way you can be sure you are going to the right people and if there is a problem, they can tell you about it.

BY THE NUMBERS

But be careful. Scammers can hijack your phone line, so when you hang up, wait a few minutes before calling your bank or building society.

Since 2014 scammers posing as Canada Revenue Agency [CRA] or immigration officers have defrauded Canadians of millions of dollars.

Canadian Anti Fraud Center [CAFC] has received 78,472 reports from across Canada of scammers pretending to represent the CRA or immigration, refugees and citizenship Canada. The center said 4,695 people across Canada have lost more than $16.7 million to the scam.

YEAR

More than $22.5 million was lost to romance scam in 2018. To learn more about it and how to fall victim, read my next article on the topic “ROMANCE SCAM.” -----TO BE CONTINUED-----

#REPORTS

#VICTIMS

$LOSS

2014

1,559

136

302,891

2015

15,647

765

2,404,351

2016

23,920

1,195

3,585,051

2017

12,286

812

3,056,955

2018

22,421

1,490

6,410,213

2019

2,639

297

1,010,407

Call Us First The Ghanaian News 416-916-3700

Kweku Adoboli talks freedom, Ghana’s payment systems, a year after deportation cont’d from pg. 15

for Ghana are bright and rooted in a quest to create wealth and improve the financial sector.

“I forgave everything a long time ago.

You know it’s almost like I forgave them for deporting me before they deported me, even though it really hurt.

You know, we Ghanaians - generally black people actually - We take suffering really well. And you know we’re taught to be stoic, stand up and move forward.

So I’ve forgiven everyone; I’ve forgiven my old colleagues and the UK government et cetera because, guess what, I’m here!.

And you know we’re building stuff and I’m learning things and meeting people, making friends and it’s a community. So there’s no need to look backwards. We need to look forward and what I care about now is how do I bring people here to be with us so that we can build things and move forward to moving forward ever since we touched down in Ghana.”

Adoboli

on

Ghana’s

financial

sector,

his

job,

concentration.

When news broke about the legal tussles the Ghanaian-born trader faced regarding the reported financial scam that got him in jail, many had suggested the financial brain could help improve Ghana’s banking sector. Even though he remained tight-lipped on whether or not some banks had approached him while in Ghana, Mr Adoboli expressed the need for the country’s payment system to have a facelift.

“I’ve been focused on areas such as how we can deepen our markets; how do we create products that will it that will unlock a lot of… there’s a lot of money in Ghana. But it’s very hard to unlock it because there are no products or mechanisms to unlock them.

So what we need to do is actually think strategically. What do we need to build to allow all of this money pension fund money that’s locked in housing?

You know everyone pays for their house with cash so there’s no leverage of housing mortgage debt. And some

Systems as “challenged”, Kweku of that is necessary for us to increase Adoboli proposed to JoyBusiness the our ability to compete on a global scale. need for BlockChain Technology to leverage payment systems in the country.

So a lot of my focus has been which areas can I contribute some of my expertise Mr Adoboli said, “Banking payment systems to but a lot of my expertise a lot of my in Ghana are challenged. I’m going to use a experience has also been about learning. euphemism - they’re challenged and we have You can’t just turn up and say this is how a lot of work to do to develop systems that we’re going to do stuff that doesn’t work.” are much more efficient. Much lower levels of friction much lower cost. 1 per cent to do a A call for blockchain technology movement transfer is too much. 3 or 4 per cent to release foreign currency that’s been sent in The use of blockchain technology is is too much. If the friction level is 1 per cent not limited to cryptocurrency. It can then nobody wants to spend any money.” also be used to tokenize everything including property, administer elections, He added “So blockchain would help. What and validate all forms of ownership. we need to do is not go incrementally. Right.

You’ve got a legacy system, let’s develop it a Universa, Ethereum, EOS, WAVES are little bit. Actually, we need to think really big examples of blockchain technologies currently and go; how do we leapfrog so that we don’t in use. Interestingly, there are no regulations spend years and decades iterating forward that streamline these systems of innovation. and blockchain is a mechanism that we could rely on either to build digital currencies or to The Securities and Exchange Commission understand the ledger better and be able to (SEC) has so far been advised to consider track payments and cash flows et cetera? It some form of regulation to make this would help us and if we could attract people effective. Describing Ghana’s Payment with the skills.” Myjoyonline.com

The Ghanaian News December 2019 29

New African King Meat Shop Under New Management

Lowest Price Guaranteed Specializing in African, Caribbean and Asian Wholesale deal on Yam, Gari, Kokonte and more

• • • • •

Burnt Goat Fresh Goat Ox Tail Cow Tripe Smoke Fish

• • • • • •

Ghana Yam Maggi Seasoning cubes Trofai Palm Cream, Palmnut Cream, Ghana Fresh Palm Oil and Coconut Oil Veggies

Consumer Hotline: 647-344-0988

Business Hours

Monday to Friday 10 am - 8:30 pm Saturdays 9 am to 8 pm Sundays 2 pm - 6 pm

2223 Jane Street (opposite Chalkfarm) Toronto

GOLDEN GATES RESTAURANT Best African Cuisine * Dine in - Take out Catering

10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. - Monday to Sunday

Tel: 416-745-1394 2428 Islington Ave., Unit 104 Toronto Ontario, M9W 3X8

Afro Continental Bar & Grill We Serve All Kinds Of African Continental Dishes * Fried Yam with Tilapia or Red Snapper * Fried Plantain with Beans * Waakye (Rice & Beans) with Assorted meat * Banku with Okro or Peanut Soup * Dieho (TZ) * Konkonte * Jollof Rice * Fufu with Peanut Soup or Light Soup

BUSINESS HOURS MONDAY TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

- - - - - - -

CLOSED 11:00 AM TO 10:00 PM 11:00 AM TO 10:00 PM 11:00 AM TO 10:00 PM 11:00 PM TO 10:00 PM 11:00 AM TO 10:00 PM 12:00 PM TO 9:00 PM

Call Kwame or Adwoa @ 416-519-6740 849 Albion Road (Albion/Islington)

30

The Ghanaian News December 2019

“YOU SHALL NOT KILL” Let us respect Human Life

By Stephen Armah Quaye, Toronto, ON

WorldRemit proudly celebrates its migrant customers in Canada Every year on December 18 the United Nations (UN) recognizes the efforts, contributions, and rights of migrants worldwide.

In 2000 the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed December 18 as International Migrants Day. In recent years, increased globalization, communication and transportation has boosted the number of people moving to other countries around the world in search of better lives. Many come to Canada – in fact, Canada continues to fuel economic and population growth through immigration and will welcome almost 330,000 new immigrants by the end of 2019.

The regular influx of new immigrants is a boon to the country. By 2030, all 9.2 million of Canada’s most prominent worker cohort—the baby boomers—will be of retirement age. This reality, in combination with a low fertility rate, places increased labour pressure on industries across Canada that immigration helps to address.

Driven by a rising migrant population and increased demand for online remittance services, WorldRemit is serving an increasing share of the US$24.5bn Canadian remittance market.

Corey Myckan, Country Director for Canada at WorldRemit, comments: “Canada has long been one of the most welcoming destinations for migrants and today its cities are some of the most multicultural in the world.”

Migrant populations including dedicated WorldRemit customers are among those who fuel the remittance market in Canada, while filling labour demands across the country.

WorldRemit customer, Rolando Pepano, worked in Qatar as an overseas worker for years before deciding to migrate to Canada in 2012. As the primary breadwinner for five siblings and his mom, he is proud of the support he can give to them by working full-time as a shift manager for a national pizza chain. In December, Rolando will achieve his migrant dream – being sworn as a Canadian citizen. “Getting my Canadian citizenship is so important to me. I promised my father that I would take care of my mom and migrating to Canada has allowed me to fulfill that promise.”WorldRemit customer, Chikee Castillo, migrated from the Philippines to Winnipeg in 2003 with her three kids and now lives in Fort McMurray, Alberta. As a single mom working two jobs, sacrifice is a part of everyday life – like foregoing a vehicle to get around in the frigid winter months.

“Plans don’t go according to plan,” Chikee explains, “but I am grateful to be working here in Canada.”

“The vital contribution of migrants to their host economies is clear. At WorldRemit we also understand the challenges migrants face in establishing themselves in a new country. Migrants work hard to earn their money. Our mission at WorldRemit is to make sending money at the best foreign exchange rates to family at home as easy, secure, quick and convenient as possible. There is no need to visit a money transfer agent and pay expensive fees. Instead our network allows migrants to send funds to 150 countries straight from their smartphone, computer or tablet,” concluded Myckan.

For more information on how to send money with WorldRemit, click here.

About WorldRemit Leading digital money transfer company WorldRemit has disrupted an industry previously dominated by offline legacy players, such as Western Union, by taking international money transfers online - making them more convenient, safer, faster and lower-cost. We currently send money from over 50 countries to recipients in over 150 countries across the world. We offer our service and operate in 6,500 money transfer corridors worldwide and employ over 800 people worldwide.

On the sending side WorldRemit is 100% digital (cashless), increasing convenience and enhancing security. For those receiving money, the company offers a wide range of payout options to recipients including bank deposit, cash collection, mobile airtime top-up and mobile money.

Backed by Accel, TCV and Leapfrog – early investors in Facebook, Netflix and Slack – WorldRemit’s headquarters are in London, UK with a global presence including offices in the United States, Canada, South Africa, Japan, Singapore, the Philippines, Australia and New Zealand.

Press contact pr@avcommunications.ca

We are tired of burying the youth.

Please stop killing the youth” a member of the clergy has said.

When a gun toting young adult stormed one of the popular malls here in Toronto a few months ago, the brave hid, the strong shivered and the rest ran for their dear lives.

In a real action move style, the “gangster” pointed his short gun at different directions as his eyes dart around like an owl looking for his target to shoot.

“O my God not hear” a store keeper was heard loud and clear as she pulled the iron curtain down to close her shop to avoid being shot. Please call the police, help, help, someone help” as others ran helter skelter to avoid the gangster’s radar.

It took brevity of an elderly woman and if my memory serves me correct, a 67 year old who called the police that apprehended the gangster and whisked him away to calm nerves.

WHAT IS KILLING? A simple definition of killing is the unlawful taking of another human life without justification or valid excuse, especially the unlawful taking of another human life with malice aforethought.

The criminal defence attorneys defines killing as one of the most heinous crime that one can commit as according to law, killing is the “unlawful taking of life of a human being.”

BY THE NUMBERS A careful study of the figures recorded by the Toronto Police Homicide Investigation department and published on its website indicated a reduction of homicides in 2019 as compared to 2018.

Although the city of Toronto recorded very disturbing murder incidents in 2019, the record showed 66 murder cases out the 96 cases in 2018, 30 reduction murder cases so far.

At the time of filing this article for consideration and publication on December 16, 2019, Toronto Police Homicide statistics had it that as of December 7, 2019; the city had recorded 66 murders of all sorts.

According to the statistics, killings in the year 2014 was 56, 2015-51, 201670, 2017-59 and the year 2018 had the highest number of 92 killings.

Scanning through the homicide figures revealed that shooting topped the chart with 40 percent followed by stabbing 36 percent and others recorded 17 percent.

A further scan through the data also revealed that out of fifteen police divisions in the Toronto City, Division 12 topped the chart with 8 recorded killings, followed by Division 23, 31, 43 with seven deaths, Division 11, 13, 22, 41, 51, 52 and 53 had 4 killings.

Division 54 had three killings whiles Division 14, 33, and 42 had 2 killings.

Stephen Armah Quaye

WHAT THE STATISTICS TELLS US Looking at the statistics so far made available by the homicide department of Toronto Police here by presented by yours truly, readers will share with me that we have become a culture in which life has lost its intrinsic value.

A deeper look at the statistics begs of the question how many more lives would be lost in decades to come in our beautiful City of Toronto or in Canada as a whole if we continue to devalue the lives of the youth as it is being done today.

No wonder some members of the clergy have shared their comments on the issue of killings in our city and have expressed that they are tired of burying the youth who they describe as the potential leaders of our future.

MY TAKE Human life is of incredible value to the lord. Life its beginning and its end, belong to the lord. If we return to the lord on this vastly important matter, our nation will experience a divine favour that God himself promised in Deuteronomy 28:2-8.

There is a personal blessing when we obey the lord by honouring and respecting human life which is the sixth commandment that insists, “You shall not kill”.

“You shall not kill” prevents us from allowing our baser qualities to rule.

It places a barrier between us and our wrath, greed, or impulse to seek revenge. It protects us from those who cannot otherwise control their anger.

It also keeps us safe from those who would kill us to have what we possess, protects us from those who hate us because of our religion, nationality, income level, or skin colour.

Again, you shall not kill reminds every one of us that we do not have the right to harm another or take a person’s life.

That right belongs to God alone, and that is the Lord of life.

Because there is a God who places utmost value on human life, life has meaning. Every single life has purpose.

Then fighting “gangs and guns” to value human life should be fought by whom?

“FIGHTING GANGS AND GUNS” WHO’S FIGHT? TO BE CONTINUED.....

The Ghanaian News December 2019 31

COMMUNITY INFORMATION Season’s greetings As the year 2019 draws to a close, the management and publication team of your versatile community newspaper, The Ghanaian News, take this opportunity to extend our sincere gratitude to all and sundry who have steadfastedly supported the growth of the paper for the past 22years.

To our advertisers whose contributions support the paper’s production, to our numerous readers in Canada, the United States, Europe and the rest of the world as well as our Homeland Ghana, whose continued interests, suggestions and advice have contributed to the papers quality and to our friends and supporters in the larger Canadian community, we say a big THANK YOU for your support.

We also thank our writers contributors and all our distribution team across Canada, We hope we can count on the continuous support and encouragement from all of you. At this holiday season our thoughts turn gratefully to all who have made our progress possible for the past 22 Years.

It is in this spirit we say thank you on this festive holiday season, we wish you all Merry Christmas, enjoyable holiday celebrations, Peace and Prosperity in the coming New Year.

The Ghanaian News salutes YOU All GCAO alias Ghana Union Final Council Meeting 2019 - Report cont’d from pg. 19

the GCAO as an organization relies on the yearly dues of $200.00 from every association and churches to run the organization and also funding the programs. He shared with the leaders that we still have a lot of pledges pending and also we needed to focus on more on individual contributions to accelerate the project. We plan to publish the full statement of accounts in the Ghanaian News.

Mr. Emmanuel Quaye the Chairman of the Ghanaian-Canadian Heritage Center property acquisition team shared with the leaders the progress made thus far. The team has been meeting with Toronto City Hall councillor and his staff about the Rivalda Road property.

In August the city granted us a tour of the building and fielded questions and answers. Since then there have been more meetings about zoning, rearchitecting and fundraising event.

Mr. Quaye also highlighted different options in our pursuit of this property.

On the newly heralded, Senior, Pensioners, Retirees group, Mrs. Felicia Botchway and Mrs. Rosemond Effah-Adjei shared with the leaders their efforts to register seniors in our community and provide programs and services for our seniors group. All these efforts are intended to address issues associated with old age and also create camaraderie and address

loneliness, help widows and widowers feel valued and that the community have their back.

On the Calender for 2020, Natasha Boakye shared with the leaders immediate calendar items as follow – Black History month in Feb, Ghana Independence Celebration, Community Clean up activity, Sweet Mothers Day, Ghanaian-Canadian Chamber of Commerce event. Since we want to have the Ghana Union day picnic on Simcoe Holiday in August we intend to work with the associations to start planning sooner.

Emmanuel Duodu, reiterated that the GCHC project is being cosponsored by the GCAO and the Clergy Association, hence this is all community encompassing project. He also told the leaders that our fundraising efforts need to be intensified within and outside our community. With that, a focused Fundraising Committee is being formed to specifically deal with sourcing.

Our theme as we move our forward in 2020 will continue to be “The Time is Now” and this is for anything we do. It is about time do away with the negatives and accentuate the positive be forward looking community.

The closing prayer was offered by Mrs. Felicia Botchway and meeting was adjourned. The next meeting will be in April 2020.

The Narrow Gate Theology and Seminary Academy FREE COURSES IN THE AREAS OF: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Pastoral and Ministry Leadership Pastoral Courses for Ordination Introduction to Early Church History New Testament Theology Old Testament Theology Systematic Theology Business Communication Christendom & Martrydom Inerrancy and infallibility of the scripture Executive leadership and stewardship Post-modernization and cultural diversities Contextualization of the gospel Religious worldview

REGISTER YOUR COURSES AT: www.narrowgateacademy.com Email: register@narrowgateacademy.com

REGISTRATION

From October 15th, 2019 to February 28th, 2020

International Students are welcome

For more info: Visit our website: www.narrowgateacademy.com

Call: 416-725-7886

951 Wilson Avenue, Unit #4, (Lower level) (Keele/Wilson)

32

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Sarah Efumwaa Obeng

What’s your move in 2020?!

HAPPY NEW YEAR, my friend! I believe by the time you will be reading we’ll be in the New Year, 2020.

Greetings... “Victory Loves Preparation”.

The best time to study for a test is…before it takes place.

This is a lesson I learnt from one of my mentors, Gary, and I thought it was so good I want to share it with you all. It’s a phrase we should keep in mind BEFORE starting anything new... especially 2020.

The best time to get legal advice is…before you sign the contract.

For example…

The best time to keep a customer is…before she walks out the door.

The best time to campaign is…before the election.

The best time to set off to a great year is…before it commences. The second

best time is immediately when it commences. Thus, if you haven’t already, put together a plan and structures to have a great 2020, the time to do so is now!

What big moves and great adventures are you preparing for in 2020?

Remember the 5P’s…

Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance.

Success in any endeavor isn’t

about luck...but it is about thoughtful preparation and superior execution.

So, review what your strengths are and how you’ll utilize then in realizing your goals this year.

Then, determine your three big goals that you strongly desire to see manifest in your life.

Finally, put strategies in place to help you realize your goals, and implement the strategies – keeping in mind, you’re not alone! The FORCE Who makes you breathe is helping you achieve what you’ve set out to achieve. You’re not

alone. If you think you’re alone, you put yourself in that struggling pitiful state of stress and helplessness. Don’t do that to yourself.

So, what are you going to be doing after spending this time with me by reading this piece I put together for you. A year from now, where will you be?

It will not happen by accident – you’ve got to do your part and you’ve got to act quickly.

I wish you a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

Conversation in Romantic Relationships By: Rev. Dr. Samuel Kisseadoo Conversation is a very important part of good communication, and constitutes one of the basic needs that are expressed by males and females in all relationships, especially love and romantic relationships.

Rich conversation is essential for the survival, growth, and productivity in any relationship. The level of communication and conversation must be upgraded along with the needs of the relationship. Every husband (who is the leader and primary initiator in the relationship) must learn how to start a good conversation, which will elicit a conversation response from his wife.

Wives can initiate good conversation too, if they need conversation but realize that their husbands would not talk. Both partners must learn how to upgrade and enrich their communication and conversation quality and content at different levels in the marriage or romantic relationship.

You will notice that at later stages in a marriage when old age chemical and physical changes do not allow the couple to enjoy much sexual intercourse, the richness of their general communication and conversation will keep the romance still sailing triumphantly on the waters of marital love. Every couple must therefore vigilantly look out for enemies that destroy communication and conversation in any love relationship.

I always cite wrongdoing (sin) as the first enemy of communication and conversation. Why did Adam and Eve run away to hide from God in the Garden of Eden, and broke their communication with God for the first time? It was due to disobedience (sin).

Anytime any friend or lover is hiding from another friend and would not communicate when no conflict at all has occurred between the two people, then there is at least 90% chance that the one who is hiding his or her

communication and avoids interaction, has something wrong or fishy to hide as well.

Any time a husband, wife, or fiancée does something wrong that hurts the relationship, hides the truth about a matter, tells a partial truth, or flatly lies to your face, the insincerity and guilt build a huge communication barrier in the person’s mind and heart, and will by all means block conversation between you and that guilty person.

The question of conversation initiation and continuation with a spouse or fiancée is a tough battle for many couples, and we want to discuss it a little more. Many women (who naturally love words from men) complain that either the husband “is too quiet “, “does not talk much”, “does not tell me his private matters”, “hides things from me”, “does not give me full information about important things”, “does not respond well to my questions or conversation initiatives”, or “turns every conversation into a fight”.

Sometimes the complaints are from the man. In the future we shall revisit the whole subject of effective communication, but let me make a few points here about conversation: 1. Lack of fulfillment in a marriage or love relationship will always hinder conversation. You need to honestly and critically examine the genuine needs and interests of each other, and make every effort to fulfill them as much as pos-sible in a reciprocal way.

2. Learn to say “sorry” very quickly as soon as you realize you have offended your partner. If it is a serious offence like fornication, adultery, neglect, physical abuse, financial cheating, revealing of an important secret to someone, denial of sexual or other need, do-mestic laziness, plunging of the family into disgrace and shame with a scandal etc. then you need to make special time to give your mate all the facts in honest dialogue, make genuine

confessions, team up with him or her to prevent future problems, show by your word and deeds that you have truly repented, and work hard to open up the active lines of conversation again.

3. Even if you do not see where you went wrong but your partner complains that you have offended him or her, be wise and humble enough to open your heart to God and the person and sincerely say “I am sorry”, without allowing the devil and the pride of man to take advantage of the situation and develop a conflict or tension out it, and hinder conversation.

4. You must make a firm commitment to become a good conversationalist.

Recognize conversation as a vital pillar for the survival and progress of your relationship, and learn how to initiate good conversation. Diligently study to know the practical methods of engaging in meaningful, educative, edifying (building up), and heartwarming conversation.

Observe how others converse, and read literature (or explore other sources) to obtain good information about conversation. Allow circumstances and opportunities to let conversation flow freely around varieties of issues as well.

Do not allow selfishness, worry, burdens, anxiety, fear, and other problems destroy your appetite to open your mouth and converse with your mate or friend.

Some factors that will enable you to initiate and sustain good conversation are: 1. Look for common ground. For example the same dress, same school, same opinion, same opportunity, same experiences, same plans, same desires, same or similar dress etc., and even the two of you having the same problem, could be used to initiate conversation.

2. Develop a good sense of humor.

Learn to create or share healthy jokes at the right time, and respond to jokes

and humor of your mate properly.

3. Avoid statements, questions, and behavior that destroy conversation. If someone does not feel intimidated or put down by your words, actions, and behavior, the one will come closer to you without fear or concern, and enable you to initiate conversation with him or her. You should let wisdom and love control your words, deeds, and attitudes, so that your mate will desire drawing closer to you rather than being repelled by your words, actions, and behavior.

4. Learn to be romantic and affectionate. Good romance starts and promotes warm and excellent heartto-heart conversation between lovers.

Romance refers to your whole loving and affectionate attitude and actions towards a lover.

For example: gentle touching, smiles, good laughter, hugging, kissing, loving looks, gentle and affectionate approaches, sweet and loving words said with gentleness, tender treatment and affectionate gestures, little gifts given frequently and with meaning, enthusiastic giving of helping hand, preferential treatment (allowing him or her to go first or take it first etc.).

5. Participate very well in sexual intercourse and sexual initiatives if you are married. Your good sexual participation becomes a springboard for conversation to roll. If your partner is sexually starved or unsatisfied, he or she will not desire to engage in deep conversation with you, or give the right responses to your conversation initiatives.

6. Learn to share, Unconditional and unselfish sharing of yourself and your resources will motivate rich conversation. The discussions about the resources and the sharing processes will even constitute conversation as well.

7. Show interest and be involved in your surroundings. Develop interest CONT’D ON PG. 41

The Ghanaian News December 2019 33

C

N

D

34

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Ghanaian Presbyterian Church celebrates the Birth of Christ

By Staff Reporter, Toronto

25th December is a very important day on the Christian calendar. It is the day when Christians around the world commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ which was over 2000 years ago. As it is done annually, members of the Ghanaian Presbyterian Church in Toronto gathered at their sanctuary on Wednesday, 25th December to mark the birth of Christ with a church service.

The Resident Minister, Rev. George Agyei Kwabi delivered the sermon based on the theme: "SHALOM-PEACE." He used Matthew 11:28 and Isaiah 9:6 for his sermon. The preacher pointed out that, “most people define peace as the absence of conflict or war, but peace goes beyond that.” He stressed that “real peace encompasses wholeness, end to all hostilities, good health and inner peace among others.”

He concluded by admonishing the congregation and the world to embrace Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace who gives everlasting peace.

At the end of this year's service, elders of the church distributed Christmas gifts to the entire congregation. This was the first of its kind to be done in the history of the church.

Financial Team Rev. George Agyei Kwabi preaching

Church Elders

Music Ministry

Praising the Lord

Cross section of congregation

A Section of the Singing Band

Women’s Fellowwhip Congregation

Members displaying their Christmas gift

Cross section of congregation

The Ghanaian News December 2019 35

5th Food Drive & Cook Out to Evangel Hall Mission by the Ghanaian Presbyterian Church

By Jonathan Baah Annobil, Toronto

which has “now become a yearly affair”.

The Ghanaian Presbyterian Church Toronto, defied the inclement weather to honor its commitment of putting smiles on the faces of the people who use Evangel Hall Mission (EHM) during the festive season. It was Sunday 1st December 2019 and the 5th Food Drive & Cook Out by the Ghanaian Presbyterian Church Toronto to EHM.

Serving of the sumptuous dinner (soup, chicken, potatoes, meat strips, lasagna, and cake, banana bread, dinner roll, croissant and oranges for dessert)was led by the Men’s Fellowship, some session members as well as some youth. As the food was being served, Christmas carols were sung in the background accompanied by Rev Clement Korletey-Sackey on keyboards. The MC was Elder Carol Akyea.

This year Rev. Dale Henry of the EHM received from Elder Fred Apraku, Session Clerk, some non-perishable food items, blankets, back-packs and some oral care items. Rev. Dale Henry expressed his deepest gratitude to the church for such a gesture.

Thereafter, Elder Charlotte Cudjoe was called upon to offer the opening prayer. Elder Nana Adwoa Asare then gave the purpose of the visit. She said the visit was “to share Christ’s message of peacean love. Items presented included food, blankets and other items

The next item on the program was the evening worship which took place at the prayer room with Elder Fred Apraku, Session Clerk, as the service leader. Opening prayer was given by Elder Billy Ankomah followed by singing of some Christmas carols. The Scripture reading (Rev. 21:1-4, 22-26) was by Sister EkuaAsare with the Men’s Fellowship following it with some rendition of some Christmas carols. A short Word of Exhortation was given by Elder Patrick. He preached that the commercialization of Christmas has put parents who have no money in much stress.

In the light of this, we should not lose sight of the fact according to the Bible that Christ is surely coming back again. Another carol was sung with Elder Nana Adwoa Asare tasked with giving the closing prayer followed with benediction by Rev. Dale Henry. He once again thanked the church for coming to put smiles on the faces of the people.

Elder Fred Apraku presenting items to Rev. Dale Henry

From left: Rev. Dale Henry, Elds. Nana Adwoa Asare and Fred Apraku

Group of the church members and Elders

Hospitality Team

Men’s Fellowship at EHM

Hospitality Team with some elders

Men’s Fellowship singing during the evening worship

Rev. Dale Henry (3rd right) with the Hospitality Team and some elders

Music Ministry

Serving the dinner

Elder Charlotte Cudjoe praying

36

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Communit

ty in pictures

The Ghanaian News December 2019 37

38

The Ghanaian News December 2019

PEOPLE AND PLACES

The President of the Nana Anokye Bresiamah, out-going Asantefuohene of Toronto receives a plaque from Apostolic Church Ghana historical visit Nana Osei Agyemang, Ex-Montreal Asantefuohene to Canada

By Elder Dr. Joe Appiah

Nana Anokye-Bresiamah (2nd right) receiving the plaque from Nana Osei Agyemang. Looking on are some Nananom and members of the Association

Apostle Dr. Aaron Ami-Narh

Mad. Matilda Kyei celebrates her 80th birthday

The President of the Apostolic Church Ghana Apostle Dr. Aaron Ami-Narh, the formal President Apostle Ebenezer Abebrese and Executive Council Member Apostle Johanes Vegba paid a historical visit to the Canada Field Churches.

During the visit, all the Apostolic churches Canada were united under the governing Council of the Apostolic Church Ghana. The president used the occasion to conduct various workshops to promote the new SHIFT AGENDA (The New direction of the Apostolic Church Ghana and the diaspora).

The Canada Field Apostolic Churches shall hold a joint Easter Convention between 10th-12th April 2020 at The Apostolic Church located at 168 Rexdale Boulevard in Etobicoke Ontario to commemorate the unification.

Mad Kyei cutting her cake with family, friends and loved ones at Apostolic Church Canadian Ministry Toronto Assembly

Students & Parents of GCAO Homework Club feted at End of Year Party in Toronto

By Joe Kingsley Eyiah

On Sunday, December 22, 2019 students of the Ghanaian Canadian Association of Ontario (GCAO) Homework Club and some parents were treated to a funfilled End-of-Year party

by GCAO in Toronto.

The function which took place at the Apostles Continuation Church premises at 10 Belfield Road in Etobicoke-Toronto was characterized by fun games, feasting and distribution of toys as gifts for the children.

Present at the function were some prominent members of the Toronto Ghanaian community and some executives of GCAO including Uncle Fibian Frempong, Dr. Victor Awafo, Uncle Larry Kutuadu and

Gabriel Odartey. They each took turns to encourage the students and volunteers of the GCAO Homework Club to continue with their good efforts and sacrifices on Sundays at the Homework Club.

They also asked the students to share their

experiences at the Homework Club with their friends to attract them to the Homework and Mentoring Club organized by the GCAO. Some of the kids also expressed their gratitude to the volunteers of the Homework Club as well as their parents

for supporting them throughout the year. They related their experience at the Homework Club to the improvement in their general school work and praised the organizers and hardworking volunteers, especially Principal Eyiah, Twimadam Aunte Mavis, as

Uncle Fabian Frempong was around with his generous gift of barbecued chicken

well as Aunties Shani, Sandra and Ophelia.

Side attraction of the afternoon was the distribution of toys and, Batik Couture pillow cases to deserving kids.

More volunteers are needed at the GCAO

Homework & Mentoring Club organized at the premises of the Apostles Continuation Church every Sunday (except holidays) from 3:30 pm to 5 pm. Together we build the future of community-OUR CHILDREN!

GCAO Executive Secretary, Gabriel Odartey distributes toys to kids as hardworking volunteers of the Homework Club-Shani & Sandra give a helping hand

The Ghanaian News December 2019 39

Asanteman Association of Toronto elects new Asantefuohene and Obarima Kofi Gyamfi elected new Toronto Asantefuohene

By Jonathan Baah Annobil, Toronto

Torontonians in their numbers converged at the Manhyia Palace on Eddystone to vote and witness the election the new Toronto Asantefuohene, Hemaa, Kontihene and Kontihemaa to manage the affairs of the Asanteman Association of Toronto for the next three years.

They are replacing Nana Anokye Bresiama, the outgoing Asantefuohene and his subchiefs and queens. The colourful event was held on Sunday December 8, 2019.

Out of the teeming crowd, only 76 eligible voters of the association in good standing cast their votes to elect the new Nananom to steer the affairs of the association.

The program started with a prayer by Mrs. Tina Oppong Boateng followed by pouring of libation as custom demands by Nana Adu Nuako. The national anthems of Canada cont’d on pg. 62

From left: Obarima Kofi Gyamfi, Obarima Osei Mensah, Obaa Yaa Owusua, Obaa Margaret Bonsu and Obarima Omono Asamoah, Contestants before the election

Abusuapanin Nana Acheampong

Obarima Omono Asamoah (Okontihene-elect), Obaa Margaret Bonsu (Okontihemaa-elect), Obarima Kofi Gyamfi (Asantefuohene-elect) and Obaa Yaa Owusua (Asantefuohemaa-elect)

Asantefuohene-elect Nana Kofi Gyamfi speaking after the election

Nana Adu Nuako pouring libation

Electorial Commission

Asantefuohene-elect Nana Kofi Gyamfi speaking after the election

Cross section of Nananom

Nananom at the event

VIPs and other Nananom at the High Table

Asanteman Association of Toronto 2019 Christmas Party

By Jonathan Baah Annobil, Toronto

The Ultra modern Toronto Grand Banquet & Convention Centre was the venue for the 2019 Christmas party of the Asanteman Association of Toronto. It was held on Saturday 21st December, 2019.

Mrs. Tina Oppong Boateng introduced Nana Manny and Nana Kofi Karikari, chairman and vicechairman respectively who donated $1000.00 with Mr. Michael Ansu of Supreme Travels a supporter also donating $300.00 towards the running of the Association.

The floor was opened by outgoing Asantefuohene and Ohemaa as well as outgoing Kontihene and Kontihemaa. The attendees cont’d on pg. 44

Nananom-elect with Abusuapanin Nana Osei Acheampong (middle)

Nana Manny - Chairman

Nana Kofi Karikari Vice Chairman

Michael Ansu, Supporter

Abusuapanin Nana Osei Acheampong being honored presented by Nana Agyekum

Outgoing Executives honored

40

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Living Word Assembly of God End of year party

By Jonathan Baah Annobil, Toronto

The Toronto Grand Banquet & Convention Centre, 30 Baywood Road Etobicoke was the venue of the 2019 Christmas party of the Living Word Assembly of God on December 15th. Senior Pastor Isaac Takyi DeGraft blessed the food before being served. Fun games with prizes were won. The MC for the event was Elder Appiah Kubi.

Fun Time

Some of the Church members

From left Pastors Cyril Opoku, Cherrl, Rev. & Mrs. Takyi De-Graft, Rev. & Mrs. Osei Amoah

Some of the church members

Games Time

Church members at the event

Asiedu and Ndu-Osei families

Some of the members and their family

Cross section of church members

Some church members and guests

From left: Esther Adjei, Comfort Kutuadu and a guest

Cross section of church members

Fun Game winner and runner up

Elder Appiah Kubi MC From Charity Boateng, Kwabena Agyemang Duah and Evelyn Cobbina, Dancing competition judges

Children ministry singing Christmas Carols

Mr. & Mrs Mensah and Mr. & Mrs. Marfo

Church members

Kids having fun at the party

The Ghanaian News December 2019 41

Frankly Speaking Responsible Irresponsibility:

NDC should desist from this boycott business on national issues From Prof. Michael Baffoe, Koforidua, Ghana had cause, a short while ago, to advise the main Opposition Party in Ghana’s Parliament, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to put a stop to their stock-intrade living up to their “opposition” tag, to oppose every move the current government in Ghana makes. I have been closely following the Parliamentary business and events in Ghana for the past three years since the NPP government came to power. Until Tuesday December 24th, 2019 neither the NDC as a party, and/or its officials had ever acknowledged or credited the government with any recognition for its efforts, initiatives and programs even when some of these have had very positive impact on the country or have the potential for positive impact on the fortunes of the nation.

Apart from its nonpositive recognition stance, the NDC has continued to adopt very negative approaches to their Parliamentary business, and almost every major event in the country that are initiated by the government in power.

The NDC Parliamentary group constantly boycott Parliamentary business for which they are paid, and the very reasons why the citizens sent them to the Parliament, or they walk out of the Parliament whenever the debate on important national issues are not going their way.

They also resort to constant Press Conferences to

recording, Mr. Ofosu Ampofo finally admitted that the voice on the tape was his and turned round to “accuse” the government of trampling on his fundamental “human rights” by “spying” on him. The case is currently in the hands of the police and the courts. badmouth the government on issues that they do not agree with. These Press Conferences have become so frequent that some political observers have tagged the NDC as the National Press Conference Party (NPCP).

I had earlier urged them in this very column, to look for more positive and productive ways to air their grievances instead of these constant Press Conference that have infact become nuisance to many citizens.

And there have been real news, very bad news that have come to light to reveal very sinister machinations that the NDC party has ben planning to destabilize the nation. Two of these have come to light: first was an audio recording that had the national Chairman of their Party, Mr. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo (incidentally an “Elder” of a very large Christian denomination in the country) giving marching orders to his followers to cause mayhem in the country in the run-up to the next elections. After initial feeble denials and attempts at discrediting the authenticity of the

We thought the NDC had learnt some lessons for good behavior from the Ofosu Ampofo saga, but we were wrong. The week before Christmas, another audio recording from another highranking NDC member, the Director of their elections, Mr. Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, who was heard promising to unleash chaos on the country if the Electoral Commission went ahead with its plans to prepare a new Electoral Voters’ Register. He has admitted his complicity in this matter and confirmed his voice on the tape.

What kind of “very good citizens” are these people who populate the main Opposition Party in the country who are always planning and promising instability for their own country? A popular Akan Proverb says that the fetish priest or magician who prophesies mayhem for his/her community/ nation should remember or keep in mind that he/ she also lives in the same community/nation.

We await the action of the security agencies on this latest revelation of plans for anarchy by the NDC. Back to the NDC boycott business: In mid-

FOR ALL YOUR IMMIGRATION NEEDS • Sponsorships, Affidavits • Express Entry • Visitor Visa/Supper Visa • Work Permit/Students Visa • Provincial Nominee Programs • Permanent Residency & Citizenship • Refugees, Humanitarian & Compassionate MANJOT KAUR SINGH

Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) Commissioner of Oaths for the Province of Ontario

WESTWOOD MALL, 7215 Goreway Drive, U#2C14, Mississauga, ON, L4T 0B4

416-508-2634, 416-900-8306

xpresscanadianimmigration@gmail.com

www.expresscanadianimmigration.ca

December, President Akufo Addo announced the appointment of a new Chief Justice for Ghana’s Supreme Court in the person of Justice Anin Yeboah, a Justice of the Supreme Court to replace the retiring Chief Justice, Her Lordship Justice Sophia Akufo.

As protocol demands, the President submitted his name to Parliament for a vetting process in line with the Constitution of the Republic after consultation with the Council of State.

The NCD propaganda machine went into immediate overdrive.

They do not have any negative thing against the President’s nominee, but they sought to discredit his appointment in other ways. First, they came up with a ridiculous idea that there is another Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Dotse, who is senior to Justice Anin Yeboah who should have been appointed as the Chief Justice. They then suggested that the President appointed Justice Anin Yeboah because he is an Akan and that Justice Dotse was passed over because he

is an Ewe from the Volta Region. What the hell is coming over the heads of these people reading and projecting tribal sentiments and motives into this process?

The “preference” of the NDC for Justice Dotse becomes more sinister viewed against the fact that the NDC hates Justice Dotse to the bone because the same Justice Dotse in reviewing some serious corruption cases that came before him during the days of the NDC governments found serious connection between the NDC government and party and the corruption schemes.

He had remarked then that the NDC party and government had engaged in deliberate acts of “create, loot and share”.

The NDC has never forgiven him for these remarks and observation.

For the same party and its officials to turn round now to support him for a curiously sinister motive speaks volumes about the caliber of the Party and its official policies.

The NDC Parliamentary group then turned their attention to the scheduled vetting process for the

Chief Justice nominee and announced that they will boycott his vetting process in Parliament because the Majority side of the Parliament did not consult them (the NDC) before announcing the date for the vetting of the Chief Justice nominee, a charge that was later proved false and again tainted with sinister motives.

After they were exposed, they beat a retreat and eventually participated in the vetting process which approved Justice Anin Yeboah as the New Chief Justice on Monday December 23rd, 2019 My simple, but serious advice to the NDC as a party is that they should grow up, show more maturity and do the work for which its members in Parliament are paid by Ghanaian taxpayers. These lame and constant boycotts, press conferences, and evil machinations designed to destabilize the nation will do them no good.

Ghanaians are now more wake, and politically more sophisticated to buy into these cheap political tactics.

These tactics smacks of responsible irresponsibility.

Conversation in Romantic Relationships

CONT’D FROM PG. 32

in current news and needs around you. Get the latest information in town, look out for needs and concerns around you, especially in and around your own home, and turn them into subjects of conversation.

8. Study your partner for appealing elements of conversation. Every man or woman has specific subjects and interests that easily draw him or her into conversation in those areas.

9. Don’t talk too much. We are to talk very well and converse very well too. But if we exceed our speech limit and go overboard in our conversation by being verbose and winding in endless talk, then the receiver gets tired of you, and would not want to converse with you anymore.

Learn how to engage in short term (casual), as well as conversing for a longer period of time.

10. Make good use of conversation opportunities.

Eating time, entertainment time, shopping time, waiting time at a place (doctor’s office, bus stop

etc.), both of you awake and lying in bed, time on the phone, doing work or project together etc., are opportune moments to initiate good conversation.

11. Don’t be boring.

Know when and how to change subjects of your conversation appropriately, otherwise people will be turned off by your continual harping on the same topics in several conversations.

Exhibiting a good sense of humor and showing liveliness in your speech and actions at expected times, will also make you more enjoyable to be listened to. Being unduly repetitive in making a particular important point of yours also makes you sound boring, in addition to making you a bad talk-ative person instead of a good conversationalist.

Obtain more information from Dr. Kisseadoo’s books online from: RedLeadBooks.com by searching with his name.

Tune in to JOY 99.7 FM in Accra, Ghana on Saturdays at 5:30 am –

6:00 am (Ghana Time) or US Eastern ST 1:30 am – 2:00 am, and listen to Dr. Kisseadoo’s broadcast “Hope For Your Family”.

Access on the Internet using MYJOYONLINE. COM, and click on “Live Radio”. Contact him in the USA (1-757-7289330) for copies of his books, free counseling and prayer. Visit his website: www.fruitfulministriesint.com for essentials that will enrich your life, relationships, and ministry. Use Dr Samuel Kisseadoo or Rev Dr. Kisseadoo to access his Wall on Facebook.

Copyright June 2013 Rev. Dr. Samuel A. Kisseadoo (Professor of Biology, USA. International Evangelist.

Ordained & Licensed Minister Teacher, Conference Speaker).

Founder and President, Fruitful Ministries International Inc. (Evangelistic & Teaching Ministry).

6 Red Robin Turn, Hampton, Virginia 23669, USA. Tel. (757) 728-9330 E-mail: kisseadoo@msn.com

42

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Olivia Akpari

B.A. LL.B

Barrister & Solicitor

Tel: 905-565-0059 Fax: 905-565-0559

Olivia Akpari

LITIGATION SERVICES * Motor Vehicle Accidents * Slip and Falls * Long-Term Disability Claims * Short-Term Disability Claims * Family Law * No-Charge Initial Consultation 7025 Tomken Rd. #204, Mississauga, Ontario, L5S 1R6

DIVORCE CUSTODY CAS MATTERS ACCESS CHILD SUPPORT SEPARATION AGREEMENTS DIVISION OF ASSETS

15 Years of Experience in Family Law

Member of the Law Society of Upper Canada, York Region Family Law Association, Duty Counsel for 47 Sheppard Avenue Court, Experience in Dealing with Domestic Violence Cases, Former Lawyer for Men’s Divorce Centre, Member of Legal Aid Appeals Committee

Telephone: 416-385-8104 Fax: 416-385-1047 150 Consumers Rd., Suite 201Toronto, Ontario M2J 1P9

Call Us First The Ghanaian News 416 916-3700

JAK LEGAL CONSULTANCY Professionals specialized in the following areas of practice:

Immigration Law Other Practice Areas * Family Class Sponsorships * Uncontested Divorce * Sponsorship appeals * Small Claims Court Matters * Refugee Claims * Landlord and Tenant Matters * Humanitarian Applications * Power of Attorney * Invitation Letters * Agreements and Wills * Visa extensions * Bankruptcy Consultation * Work and Study Permits James A. Kwaateng, B.A. (Hons); LLB (Hons); CCIC Legal consultant; Commissioner of Oaths

Tel. (416) 743-2758 Fax: (416) 743-7027

168A Oakdale Rd., Suite 4, Toronto, Ontario, M3N 2S5.

Osei Owusu

Barrister, Solicitor & Notary Public

LAW OFFICE OF OSEI OWUSU

REAL ESTATE LAW

Buying a home may be the most important investment in your life. We ensure that it is done properly * Buying and selling your home * Transfers of property * Placing Mortgages, Refinancing FAMILY LAW CRIMINAL LAW IMMIGRATION Divorce Custody, Access and Support Separation Children Aid Cases

Adult Criminal Code offences Youth Criminal Justice Act (Young Offenders)

Sponsorships Sponsorship Appeals Humanitarian and Compassionate Cases

Also: Wills, Powers of Attorney, Foreign Divorce Opinions, Affidavits and Declarations, Certifying and Notarising documents

Tel: 416-614-1001

Fax: 416-614-6161

1315 Finch Avenue West, Suite 318, Toronto, Ontario, M3J 2G6 (Keele/Finch)

BANSAH & ASSOCIATES Immigration Counsel

Areas of Specialization: ♦Immigration Hearings ♦Foreign Sponsorship & Appeals ♦Applications from inside Canada ♦Humanitarian & Compassionate Cases ♦Detention Reviews & Deportation Order Cases ♦Visa Extensions ♦Federal Skilled Worker Applications ♦Family Class Sponsorships ♦Student Visa ♦Provincial Nominee Program.

Contact: Edward Bansah B.A (Hons), CCIC, FCMI Cert. Mig. & Ref Studies Member: Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants

Tel: 416-785-0522

Fax: 416-782-8563

1111 Albion Road, Unit 207, Toronto, ON, M9V 1A9

Sangha Professional Corporation OUR SERVICES • • • • • • • •

Immigration (IRB) Small Claim Court Accident Benefits Claim Canada Pension Plan Landlord & Tenant Disputes Traffic Tickets Criminal Matters Misc. Visitor’s sponsorship and oath commissioners services

Rajdeep (Raj) Sangha

Licensed Paralegal

Tel: 416-417-2427 Fax: 1-866-695-6479 Email: sanghapc@gmail.com

15 Fandor Way, Unit 201 (2nd Floor) Brampton, ON L7A 2G9

The Ghanaian News December 2019 43

Call Us First The Ghanaian News 416 647-782-6733

916-3700

PROMOTING YOUR BUSINESS IS OUR BUSINESS. SO LET’S TALK CALL GHANAIAN NEWS 416-916-3700

44

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Limited eating times could be a new way to fight obesity and diabetes

People with obesity, high blood sugar, high blood pressure or high cholesterol are often advised to eat less and move more, but our new research suggests there is now another simple tool to fight off these diseases: restricting your eating time to a daily 10hour window.

Studies done in mice and fruit flies suggest that limiting when animals eat to a daily window of 10 hours can prevent, or even reverse, metabolic diseases that affect millions in the U.S. We are scientists - a cell biologist and a cardiologist - and are exploring the effects of the timing of nutrition on health. Results from flies and mice led us and others to test the idea of time-restricted eating in healthy people.

Studies lasting more than a year showed that TRE was safe among healthy individuals.

Next, we tested timerestricted eating in patients with conditions known collectively as metabolic syndrome.

We were curious to see if this approach, which had a profound impact on obese and diabetic lab rats, can help millions of patients who suffer from early signs of diabetes, high blood pressure and unhealthy blood cholesterol.

A leap from prevention to treatment

It’s not easy to count calories or figure out how much fat, carbohydrates and protein are in every meal. That’s why using TRE provides a new strategy for fighting obesity and metabolic diseases that affect millions of people worldwide.

Several studies had suggested that TRE is a lifestyle choice that healthy people can adopt and that can reduce their risk for future metabolic diseases.

However, TRE is rarely tested on people already diagnosed with metabolic diseases.

Furthermore, the vast majority of patients with metabolic diseases are often on medication, and it was not clear whether it was safe for these patients to go through daily fasting of more than 12 hours – as many experiments require – or whether TRE will offer any benefits in addition to those from their medications.

In a unique collaboration between our basic science and clinical science laboratories, we tested whether restricting eating to a 10hour window improved the health of people with metabolic syndrome who were also taking medications that lower blood pressure and cholesterol to manage their disease.

We recruited patients from UC San Diego clinics who met at least three out of five criteria for metabolic syndrome: obesity, high blood sugar, high blood pressure, high level of bad cholesterol and low level of good cholesterol. The patients used a research app called myCircadianClock, developed in our lab, to log every calorie they consumed for two weeks. This helped us to find patients who were more likely to spread their eating out over the span of 14 hours or more and might benefit from 10-hour TRE. We monitored their physical activity and sleep using a watch worn on the wrist. As some patients with bad blood glucose control may experience low blood glucose at night, we also placed a continuous glucose monitor on their arm to measure blood glucose every few minutes for two weeks.

Nineteen patients qualified for the study.

Most of them had already tried standard lifestyle interventions of reducing calories and doing more physical activity. As part of this study, the only change they had to follow was to self-select a window of 10 hours that best suited their work-family life to eat and drink all of their calories, say from 9 a.m.

How busyness leads to bad decisions When we’re under pressure our mental bandwidth narrows – and that means we focus on the wrong tasks. So what’s the remedy for unproductive ‘tunnelling’?

By Brigid Schulte Let’s see if this sounds familiar: You churn through the day at work under deadline pressure, racing to meetings, dashing off emails, feeling busy, purposeful and a little breathless. Yet as the end of the traditional workday draws near, you realise with a sinking feeling that you haven’t even begun the big project you meant to tackle that day.

So you bring work home, or decide not to and can’t stop feeling guilty about it. Either way, your work is spilling over into the rest of your life, stealing time and mental bandwidth away from family or rest or fun, and leaving you feeling exhausted and a little resentful. You resolve that tomorrow will be different. But come morning, you inevitably find yourself back on the treadmill of busyness.

That’s a pattern Antonia Violante has seen a lot at workplaces she’s been studying in the United States for a project on worklife balance. Behavioural scientists and researchers like her call it “tunnelling”.

When we’re stressed and feeling pressed for time, Violante explains, our attention and cognitive bandwidth narrow as if we’re in a tunnel. It can sometimes be a good

thing, helping us hyper-focus on our most important work.

But tunnelling has a dark side. When we get caught up in a time scarcity trap of busyness, a panicked firefighting mode, we might only have the capacity to focus on the most immediate, often low-value tasks right in front of us rather than the big project or the long-range strategic thinking that would help keep us out of the tunnel in the first place. “We see people end up tunnelling on the wrong thing,” she says.

Why email offers false rewards Email certainly falls under that category.

To Violante, a senior associate at ideas42, a non-profit firm with offices across the US and in New Delhi that uses behavioural science to solve real-world problems, email is the perfect addictive “attention slot machine”. Our brains are wired for novelty, so we actually love being interrupted with every random ping and ding of a new message. And humans enjoy feeling busy and productive. Combine time scarcity with that pull of novelty and our busyness craving and it’s easy to see how we end cont’d on pg. 66

to 7 p.m. Drinking water and taking medications outside this window were allowed. For the next 12 weeks they used the myCircadianClock app, and for the last two weeks of the study they also had the continuous glucose monitor and activity monitor.

medication.

Timing is the medicine

Reducing the time window of eating also had several inadvertent benefits. On average, patients reduced their daily caloric intake by a modest 8%. However, statistical analyses did not find strong association between calorie reduction and health improvement.

Similar benefits of TRE on blood pressure and blood glucose control were also found among healthy adults who did not change caloric intake.

After 12 weeks, the volunteers returned to the clinic for a thorough medical examination and blood tests. We compared their final results with those from their initial visit. The results, which we published in Cell Metabolism, were pleasantly surprising.

We found most of them lost a modest amount of body weight, particularly fat from their abdominal region. Those who had high blood glucose levels when fasting also reduced these blood sugar levels. Similarly, most patients further reduced their blood pressure and LDL cholesterol. All of these benefits happened without any change in physical activity.

Nearly two-thirds of patients also reported restful sleep at night and less hunger at bedtime – similar to what was reported in other TRE studies on relatively healthier cohorts. While restricting all eating to just a six-hour window was hard for participants and caused several adverse effects, patients reported they could easily adapt to eating within a 10-hour span. Although it was not necessary after completion of the study, nearly 70% of our patients continued with the TRE for at least a year. As their health improved, many of them reported having reduced their medication or stopped some

Although we did not see any of our patients go through dangerously low levels of glucose during overnight fasting, it is important that time-restricted eating be practiced under medical supervision.

As TRE can improve metabolic regulation, it is also necessary that a physician pays close attention to the health of the patient and adjusts medications accordingly.

Tens of millions of people in the U.S. have symptoms of metabolic syndrome.

Designua/ Shuttersock.com

Despite the success of this study, timerestricted eating is not currently a standard recommendation from doctors to their patients who have metabolic syndrome. This study was a small feasibility study; more rigorous randomized control trials and multiple location trials are necessary next steps. Toward that goal, we have started a larger study on metabolic syndrome patients.

We are cautiously hopeful that timerestricted eating can be a simple, yet powerful approach to treating people with metabolic diseases.

The Conversation

Asanteman Association of Toronto 2019 Christmas Party

cont’d from pg. 39

then joined them in dancing.

7 members of the Association were honored, 4 being outgoing executives for their dedicated services to the association. They included the outgoing AsantefuoheneNana Anokye Bresiamah, Nana Pokuaa Gyamfi Kumanini-outgoing Asantefuohemaa, outgoing KontiheneNana AgyemangTutumirika, outgoing kontihemaa Nana Yaa Owusuah, Abusuapanin Nana Osei-Acheampong, Assistant Financial Secretary-Nana Amma Anyimaduwaa and GyaseheneNana Kwame Gyamfi.

Former Asantefuohene of Montreal,

Nana Osei Agyeman, domiciled here in Toronto presented a plaque to outgoing Toronto Asantefuohene Nana Anokye Bresiamah for his dedication and support to the association in Montreal during the reign of Nana Osei Agyemang.

The newly elected nananom to run the association were introduced to the members. According to Abusuapanin Nana Osei-Acheampong, the swearing in of the new executives will take place on Sunday 8th March, 2020 but the venue will be announced later.

Sumptuous dinner was served after which Nana Amma Gyanfuwaa giving the vote of thanks.

The Ghanaian News December 2019 45

Ask The Doctor

Lifestyle

By: David Yaw Twum-Barima, MD, MSc, FRCPC

This column is devoted to answering your questions on health and discusions of diseases which are common among the African Canadians.

10 ways to control high blood pressure without medication Most people who are diagnosed with high blood pressure will eventually require medication to control it in order to avoid complications such as heart attack or stroke.

However not everybody needs a drug prescription right away and many people can lower their blood pressure by making some lifestyle changes. In this article we will discuss 10 lifestyle changes, that can lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart disease.

Lifestyle plays an important role in treating your high blood pressure.

If you successfully control your blood pressure with a healthy lifestyle, you may avoid, delay or reduce the need for medication.

Here are 10 lifestyle changes you can make to lower your blood pressure and keep it

Besides shedding pounds, you should also keep an eye on your waistline. Carrying too much weight around your waist can put you at greater risk of high blood pressure. In general:  Men are at risk if their waist measurement is greater than 40 inches (102 centimeters, or cm).  Women

down.

1. Lose extra pounds and watch your waistline Blood pressure often increases as weight increases. Losing just 10 pounds can help reduce your blood pressure. In general, the more weight you lose, the lower your blood pressure. Losing weight also makes any blood pressure medications you’re taking more effective.

You and your doctor can determine your target weight and the best way to achieve it.

are at risk if their waist measurement is greater than 35 inches (88 cm).

 Asian men are at

risk if their waist measurement is greater than 36 inches (90 cm).

 Asian

women are at risk if their waist measurement is greater than 32 inches (80 cm).

2. Exercise regularly Regular physical activity — at least 30 to 60 minutes most days of the week — can lower your blood pressure by

4 to 9 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). And it doesn’t take long to see a difference. If you haven’t been active, increasing your exercise level can lower your blood pressure within just a few weeks.

If you have prehypertension (systolic pressure between 120 and 139 or diastolic pressure between 80 and 89), exercise can help you avoid developing full-blown hypertension.

If you already have hypertension, regular physical activity can bring your blood pressure down to safer levels.

Talk to your doctor about developing an exercise program. Your doctor can help determine whether you need any exercise restrictions.

Even moderate activity for 10 minutes at a time, such as walking and light strength training, can help.

But avoid being a “weekend warrior.”

Trying to squeeze all your exercise in on the weekends to make up for weekday inactivity isn’t a good strategy. Those sudden bursts of activity could actually be risky.

3. Eat a healthy diet Eating a diet that is rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables and lowfat dairy products and skimps on saturated fat and cholesterol can lower your blood pressure by up to 14 mm Hg. This eating plan is known as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet.

It isn’t easy to change your eating habits, but with these tips, you can adopt a healthy diet: Be a smart shopper.

Make a shopping list before heading to the supermarket to avoid picking up junk food.

Read food labels when you shop, and stick to your healthy-eating plan when you’re dining out, too.  Cut yourself some slack.

Although the DASH diet is a lifelong eating guide, it doesn’t mean you have to cut out all of the foods you love. It’s OK to treat yourself occasionally to foods you wouldn’t find on a DASH diet menu, like a candy bar or mashed potatoes with gravy.

4. Reduce sodium in your diet Even a small reduction in the sodium in your diet can reduce blood pressure by 2 to 8 mm Hg. Most healthy adults need only between 1,500 and 2,400 milligrams (mg) of sodium a day.

But if you have high blood pressure, aim for less than 1,500 mg of sodium a day.

To decrease sodium in your diet, consider these tips:  Track how much salt is in your diet.

Keep a food diary to estimate how much sodium is in what you eat and drink each day.  Read food labels.

If possible, choose low-sodium alternatives of the foods and beverages you normally buy.

 Eat fewer processed

foods. Potato chips, frozen dinners, bacon and processed lunch meats are high in sodium.

 Don’t add salt. Just

1 level teaspoon of salt has 2,300 mg of sodium. Use herbs or spices, rather than salt, to add more flavor to your foods.

 Ease

into it. If you don’t feel like you can drastically reduce the sodium in your diet suddenly, cut back gradually.

Your palate will adjust over time.

5. Limit the amount of alcohol you drink Alcohol can be both good and bad for your health. In small amounts, it can potentially lower your blood pressure by 2 to 4 mm Hg. But that protective effect is lost if you drink too much alcohol — generally more than one drink a day for women and more than two a day for men. Also, if you don’t normally drink alcohol, you shouldn’t start drinking as a way to lower your blood pressure. There’s more potential harm than benefit to drinking alcohol.

If you drink more than moderate amounts of it, alcohol can actually raise blood pressure by several points. It can also reduce the effectiveness of high blood pressure medications. Consider tapering off. If you’re a

heavy drinker, suddenly eliminating all alcohol can actually trigger severe high blood pressure for several days. So when you stop drinking, do it with the supervision of your doctor or taper off slowly, over one to two weeks.  Don’t binge. Binge drinking — having four or more drinks in a row — can cause large and sudden increases in blood pressure, in addition to other health problems.

6. Avoid tobacco products and secondhand smoke On top of all the other dangers of smoking, the nicotine in tobacco products can raise your blood pressure by 10 mm Hg or more for up to an hour after you smoke.

Smoking throughout the day means your blood pressure may remain constantly high.

You should also avoid secondhand smoke.

Inhaling smoke from others also puts you at risk of health problems, including high blood pressure and heart disease.

7. Cut back on caffeine The role caffeine plays in blood pressure is still debatable.

Drinking caffeinated beverages can temporarily cause a spike in your blood pressure, but it’s unclear whether the effect is temporary or long lasting.

To see if caffeine raises your blood pressure, check your pressure within 30 minutes of drinking a cup of coffee or another caffeinated beverage you regularly drink. If your blood pressure increases by five to 10 points, you may be sensitive to the blood pressure raising effects of caffeine.

Regardless of your sensitivity to caffeine’s effects, doctors recommend you drink no more than 200 milligrams a day — about the amount in two cups of coffee.

8. Reduce your stress Stress or anxiety can temporarily increase blood pressure. Take some time to think cont’d on pg. 67

46

The Ghanaian News December 2019

J & I BEAUTY SUPPLY

CEEKTEK INT’L LIMITED

Tel: 416-740-1859 * * * * * *

100% Human Hair Wigs Weaves Beauty Supply Make-Up Supply Skin Care Cream & Lotions

Wholesale & Retail TEL: 1-647-349-1629

1172 Albion Road, Etobicoke

CELL:

Next Plaza to Tim Horton's (Albion/Islington)

1-647-835-1627 EMAIL:

Jesus Is The Answer Salon

C.K. AMOATENG

1725 Jane St. (Jane/Lawrence) Toronto, ON, M9N 2S9

Specialized In: All Types Of Hair Cuts And Designs Gladys

416-569-2453

KAKS Beauty Supplies UP to 5-10 - 15-20 & 25% OFF On Every Purchase, Your One Stop Shop for all Your Beauty Care Products 1660 Kingston Road, Unit 2,

TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU

Call: Elizabeth

Pickering, Ont., L1V 5R2

www.ceektex.com INSTAGRAM: ceektex23

Beck & APS Beauty Supply Your One Stop Shop

Dealers In: Human Hair * Synthetic Hair * Like Human Hair * African Textiles * Italian Shoes * Ladies Bags * Plus Size Jeans * Wigs * Many More...

Hours of Operation:

Tel: 905-683-9163

Monday to Friday 10 am - 8 pm Saturday: Closed Sunday 12 pm - 6 pm

4502 Kingston Road, Scarborough, Ont. Tel: 416-283-8303 Fax: 416-283-6590

Call Christine @ 416-240-8388 2400 Finch Ave. W.#2A, Toronto, Ont.

A. & A. Hair Design

Expert Styling * Weaving, African Braiding * Hair Cutting

Business Hours

Mon.-Wed. Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

416-445-4446 113 Ellesmere Rd., Scarborough, Ont. M1R 4C3

WEB:

242 Eddystone Ave., North York, ON, M3N 1H7

Visit us at

Specializing In: * Hair Relaxing * Braids * Weaves * Cornrows

ceek29@yahoo.ca

10.00am 9.00am 8.00am 6.30pm 8.00am

- 7.00pm - 9.00pm - 5.00pm - 11.30pm - 7.00pm

Tel: 416-241-7418

2111 Jane Street, (Beside India Africa)

Hannah’s Drapery & Hall Decorations SPECIALIZING IN : Custom Drapery, New Zebra Blinds, Window Shades, Austrian Shades,Washroom Sets ETC. Also , specialize in all kinds of event decor such as wedding, engagement, outdooring, graduations, corperate functions and funeral etc.

Dzifa

Shalom Beauty Supply

2065 Lawrence Ave. West, Toronto, Ontario Under New Management

* 100% Human Hair * Relaxers * Beauty Products * Braids (All kind) * Lace Front Wigs

CALL HANNAH OR OTIS AT : 647 400 9815 OR 647 920 6757

INSTAGRAM PAGE : hannahdrapery

Tel: 416-248-0875

The Ghanaian News December 2019 47

Why most causes of kidney disease in Ghana are unknown kidney diseases are on the rise globally and in Ghana.

We are seeing more cases of kidney diseases in our health posts, clinics and hospitals and I believe many more do not even come to the formal health institutions.

About 13% of Ghanaians have chronic kidney disease and many are dying on daily basis from kidney diseases. The young and old, rich and poor, males and females are all affected.

Kidney disease is no respecter or persons, but the poor suffer most from the complications of kidney disease. The unfortunate situation is that most patients with kidney failure in Ghana cannot afford care leading to the increased number of deaths associated with the disease.

Unfortunately, Ghana has one of the most active National Health Insurance Schemes (NHIS) in Africa but does not cover the care for patients with chronic kidney disease or even those who come in acutely ill and may require short term dialysis to survive hence the increased mortality. Because of this, I am on a campaign as kidney health advocate to help decrease the burden of kidney disease by sharing knowledge to the general populace and training primary health care professionals to enable them build the capacity to screen and diagnose patients with kidney disease early to avoid kidney failure.

Unfortunately, most patients present so late that we (nephrologists and clinicians) are unable to ascertain the real cause of their kidney disease. This is because irrespective of the cause of the kidney disease, the final damage or pattern of presentation may be the same. Clinicians are therefore unable to determine the clear cause of the kidney disease especially in patients who do not have diabetes and present with hypertension at a relatively young age.

Hypertension is a cause of kidney disease but may also be just a presenting sign of kidney disease.

So when a young patient presents with kidney disease and hypertension, it might be very difficult to attribute the cause of kidney disease to the hypertension, nonetheless most clinicians attribute the cause to hypertension which might not be the case.

Globally, diabetes and hypertension are the most common causes of kidney disease but in Africa and Ghana, most causes are unknown and believed to be from chronic inflammation of the kidneys of unknown causes or “too late to diagnose causes” that present with hypertension.

Most astute kidney doctors will diagnose them as ‘chronic kidney disease with cause unknown’ or attribute it to chronic inflammation (chronic glomerulonephritis) that may have affected the kidney from myriad causes which we are not able to ascertain due to patients’ inability to pay for thorough investigations or in some cases inadequate resources. This accounts for about 60% of cases of chronic kidney disease as shown in a published study in a tertiary hospital in Kumasi.

The risk of kidney disease is increased among Ghanaians because of the increasing number of people with hypertension. In Ghana, it is estimated that about 1 out of 3 adults have hypertension.

Unfortunately, up to about 50 percent of patients with hypertension presenting to a tertiary hospital in Ghana also have kidney disease as shown by an earlier study in a tertiary hospital. Diabetes also affects about 7% of the population and is known to be the second most common cause of chronic kidney disease in Ghana.

Chronic infections such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), hepatitis B, hepatitis C and syphilis are also known causes of chronic kidney disease.

The rampant use of herbal medication of various forms as well as the abuse of pain medications among the populace also increases the risk of kidney damage. We have many reported cases of herbal medications causing kidney disease acutely and chronic kidney disease in the long run.

In most old male patients, the presence of enlarged prostates which cause obstruction to urine flow can affect the kidneys in a long run if the obstruction is not relieved in time.

It is also common knowledge that blacks have a higher risk for developing kidney disease and hence caution is advised. They tend to have poorly controlled hypertension and aggressive forms of kidney disease which respond very poorly to medications and therefore progress to kidney failure.

Chronic kidney diseases present late in most cases because in early disease, there are no symptoms.

Do not wait for symptoms because that might be late. It is essential to always ensure you look out for the risk factors discussed, avoid herbal and even orthodox medications such as pain killers that affect the kidneys and always check your kidney functions regularly so that kidney disease can be diagnosed early and duly managed to prevent kidney failure.

Please be very interested in your kidneys’ health, get regular screening at least once a year if not at risk and even every 6 months if at risk and see a nephrologist (kidney doctor) if you have any questions. As kidney doctors, we are currently carrying out studies to ascertain why people in sub-Saharan Africa are at higher risk of kidney diseases in a multinational and multicenter study. Until then, please take full responsibility of your kidney health as an individual and aim to prevent kidney disease. Prevention is key!

Graphic.com.gh

Cita Beauty Home beauty products, foods, clothing

CITA, YOUR LAST STOP FOR YOUR BEAUTY SUPPLIES AND AFRICAN FOODS NEW LOCATION: 3334-32 STREET NE (HORIZON AUTO CENTRE) INTERSECTION OF 32 AVENUE AND 32 STREET NE OUR PHONE AND FAX NUMBERS REMAIN THE SAME,

92 ARROW ROAD, TORONTO, ONTARIO

PHONE: (403)568-7602 FAX: (403) 568-7603

48

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Sam Auto Body

SIX STAR MOTORS

Call Us First

56 Penn Drive, North York

The Ghanaian News

(Finch/Milvan)

Collusion Repairs

* Rust *Minor Repairs and Painting

416-916-3700

Specializing In:

Sammy Lartey 647-428-6837 172 Toryork Dr., #9, North York, Ont.

Air Conditioning Service Tune-ups, Brakes, Mufflers, General Repairs Service to all imports

Sam Auto Service

GENERAL REPAIR ON ALL MAKE & MODELS

Domestic & Import Contact: Sam

Paul Nsiah, Manager Tel: 416-746-3275

Dynamic Auto Repairs Auto Repairs For All Makes and Models

Business Hours

Monday - Friday - 9:00am - 5:00pm Saturday 9:00am - 6:00pm

Obeng Tel: 905-782-4305 Cell: 647-225-4223 1625 Trinity Dr., Unit 4 Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1W9

Complete Service for all Foreign and Domestic Cars

Tel: (416)743-6969

66 Milvan Dr. Units 6& 7, North York, Ont. Guaranteed Job Satisfaction YOU ARE IN GOOD HANDS !!!

STANDFAST AUTO INC. Certification - Imports & Domestic Vehicles * TUNE-UPS * MUFFLERS* BRAKES * OIL CHANGE

FREE INSPECTION

Magazines and Training

Tel: 905-738-4504 Fax: 905-738-4504 30 Freshway Dr., Unit B5, Concord, Ont.

(Early G2 and G Road Test bookings)

Ministry Approved Certified Driving Instructor For Over 15 Years

Complete general repairs to all foreign & domestic cars, Body and Custom painting

Tel: 416-876-6554 Cell: 416-319-5546

Contact: Bismarck Bright or Nick Bright

Tel: (416)745-5690 Fax: (416)745-1514

stephensonofori01@gmail.com

Teaching You Right The First Time

Oyibi on the Dodwa Road For all your car repair contact Bismarck Bright 0277-709000 / 0266-858050 Nick Bright - 416-522-2416

Peaceful Driving School Best Driving School In Canada M.T.O. Approved course provider

Toronto and out of City Road Test Full Package Includes: * 10 hours in car, 20 hours in class and 5 hours home links, for insurance discount certificate * Private lessons and pre-test packages * Let the professionals lead you to safety.

Solomon Adjei-Yeboah * We also provide driver improvement course as well as defensive driver improvement peacefuldrivingschool.com

Tel: 416-888-4922

230 Eddystone Avenue, Suite 203, North York, Ontario

(Jane & Highway 7)

B. B.'S AUTO Inc.

Call Steve to Change the Game

Auto Repair and Body Shop

Sam Tuffour - 416-743-6119 41 Brydon Drive, Etobicoke, Ont.

Eagle Iye Driver Consultancy

B.B’s Auto Int’l Ghana Ltd.

Eastern Automotive Repair Inc.

16 Taber Rd, Etobicoke, Ont.

M.S.B. Driving School Ministry Approved Course Provider

Out of City Road Test * Do Your 'G' Road Test Without Driving On Any of

The 400 Highways * We Offer New And Nervous Drivers Until They Pass Their Road Test Contract (some conditions may apply) * Attend Our Classroom 25 hrs. Session To Get Your Certificate for Insurance Discount

Call Yusuf Serbeh (Akwasi)

Tel: 416-627-1100

15 John Street, Suite #1 (Weston/Lawrence)

DANIEL'S Driving School Quality Driving Instructions At An Amazingly Low Cost

MTO Approved Course Provider Sponsored by CAA, Get one year free membership up to 40% discount on Insurance

Area of operation: Brampton, Mississauga and Etobicoke

Daniel O. Oduro Kotoko

For Registration, please call:

416-568-1795

The Ghanaian News December 2019 49

Apostles' Continuation Church Int'l 2019 Christmas Banquet

By Jonathan Baah Annobil, Toronto

The Apostles' Continuation Church International held its Christmas banquet at their banquet hall on Saturday December 14, 2019. Prizes were given to winners of Bible quiz as well as dancing competition

won by Jerry Ikekhide of Scarborough Assembly. Victory Ikekhide, daughter of Jerry coincidentally was crowned the 2019 queen. Lots of prizes were also won in the

Apostle Charles Anokye-Manu and wife

Merry making time

raffle draws with Madam Agnes Adoma winning the grand prize of a 43" Samsung HDTV. The MC for the function was Nana

Grand prize raffle draw winner Agnes Adoma (2nd left) with family and Apostle Anokye-Manu

George Asoma. After the serving of dinner the attendees danced till the end of the program.

Jerry Ikekhide (2nd right) (Best dancer winner) with runners up and elder Kwame

Group picture of Pastors and wives and some elders with Mrs. Brakatu (3rd right)

Rev. Seth Boateng and family

Clergy table Children at the party

“Father Christmas� with children

Dance time Beauty queen (center) Victory Ikekhide with runner up Melissa Asoma-Asae (l) and past beauty queen

Nana George Asoma, MC Dance Time Time for dinner

From left: Elds. Johnson Acheampong, Brefo Mensah, Mrs. Adwoa Serwaah Yeboah and Lucy Kyei

Boateng brothers dancing

Some Church members and guest

50

The Ghanaian News December 2019

416.848.7035 FINANCIAL SERVICES INC.

info@mezedfinancial.com www.mezedfinancial.com

RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGES COMMERCIAL MORTGAGES CONSTRUCTION LOANS

Special New Immigrant Mortgage Program Non - Residence Mortgage Program

OUR FIXED RATE FOR 3 YEARS IS 2.64%.

FOR 5 YEARS IS 2.89% OUR VARIABLE RATE FOR 5 YEARS IS 2,45%

Give us a call at 4 1 6 - 8 4 8 - 7 0 3 5

Head Office: 3200 Steeles Ave. W, Suite 6, Vaughan, ON L4K 3B8 Branch Office: 1325 Derry Rd E. Unit 7, Mississauga ON L5T 1B6

www.mezedfinancial.com

The Ghanaian News December 2019 51

Premier Ford attends National Ethnic Press Party

In pictures

By Jonathan Baah Annobil, Toronto

York Regional Police Officers

Premier Doug Ford with some Ethnic Press Executives

Cultural Dancer at the event

Presentation of citation to Ethnic Press. From left: Roberto Hausman, Mayor Frank Scarpitti (Mayor of Markham), Maria Voutsinas and Thomas Saras

Greek Community of Toronto Youth Dancers

MP Rob Oliphant (2nd left) presenting certificate to Thomas Saras

Premier Ford interacting with Thomas Saras

Premier Doug Ford (2nd left) with Emmanuel Ayiku and Aris Babikian MPP (left)

Ghanaian News crew with Catherine Wynne, (center) (former Premier of Ontario

Catherine Wynne (former Premier of Ont.) and Michael Coteau

Entertainment Time at the Dinner

Councilor Jim Karygiannis (l) and Thomas Saras

MariaVoutsinas and Roberto Hausman, MCs

Vanessa Wheatle singing the National Anthem

MPP Aris Babikian (2nd left) presenting a certificate to Thomas Saras with Raman Baber (l) Sheref Sabawy (r) and Mcs looking on

52

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Pre Christmas Convention by the Apostolic Church Int’l

By Emmanuel Ayiku, Toronto, ON

The Apostolic Church Int'l held a special pre-Christmas Convention from Thursday December 12th to Sunday December 15th 2019.

The theme was "His Divine Presence" Matthew 1:23.

The climax of the program was on Sunday December 15th. Rev. Apostle Nii Aryee Senior pastor delivered the sermon based on the theme.

There was fundraising event for the church during the occasion.

Apostle Nii Aryee

Pastors and Elders

Apostle Nii Aryee preaching to the congregation

Fundraising segement

Congregation Media-technician

Music Ministry

Congregation

Mrs. Peprah praying

Congregation

Congregation Women Leaders

Women Leaders

Women Fellowship

Financial Team

The Ghanaian News December 2019 53

Evangel Assembly of God Special Christmas Party

By Emmanuel Ayiku, Toronto, ON

December 22, at a Banquet Hall near the Church premises, 314 Rexdale Blvd. Etobicoke, The event was organized by the church in the spirit of Christmas as a time to reflect and connect with neighbors. The Senior Pastor of the church Rev. Milton Ofei, used the occastion to encourage all members, relatives, friends and loved ones who have gathered here to give themselves to Jesus because we are living in the evil days. Special awards were given to some church members who have served the church well.

Church Elder praying

Rev. & Mrs Ofei and a guest

Church Elder

Proposing toast

Rev. Milton Ofei (2nd right) and church elders

Church members

Rev. Ofei and some church elders

Proposing toast

Ushers

Church members Guests Mr. & Mrs. Boateng

Guests

Some of the church members

54

The Ghanaian News December 2019

JAGTAR TEXTILE XMAS SPECIAL SALE, FANCY AFRICAN LACE WAS $85, NOW 2 FOR $100

WAX PRINTS WAS, $20 EACH (6 YARDS) NOW 7 FOR $100

BEDSHEETS WAS $25 FOR EACH NOW 6 FOR $100.

SHIRTS WAS $15 EACH NOW 12 FOR $100

101 WESTMORE DR UNIT #119 ETOBICOKE ON M9V3Y6 416-745-2700

The Ghanaian News December 2019 55

Beni Boo Styles

WELL MADE - WELL PRICED New Year Fashion Resolution Happy New Year still! Don’t let it get old yet, because you’ve just started getting a hang on your New Year resolutions. So before you run out patience and determination to give up and forget let’s rather set some simple goals like -1 try to achieve a balance between your work and personal life &2. Fashion for life goals.

Fashion goals are just as important because your impressions matters a lot. In today’s world our judgments are deeply rooted in our looks and whether you want to admit it or not; trust me when I say all of us think about fashion more than we know it; at least once or twice a day- think about it in the morning when you wake you always have to figure out what to wear and what not to be seen in when you step out that door – right?

LADIES Your image is crucial because it defines you as a person. Therefore you need to be choosy about your clothes, accessories, hair style, skin care and overall body language. Note that before someone even take their time to approach you or say hello they 1st notice your outward look.

So the world around you is taking notice, your mates & your work positions are enormously base on these perceptions.

But although we live in a world that constantly judges us by our looks and is quick to form an impression of us based on our external image, don’t let it be a pressure to you to try and look good above your means but rather be comfortable in your skin and style.

With that in mind lets all work a little on improving our sense of fashion, grooming habits that will reflect well on our image as individuals.

GENTLEMEN Some men still go about with the flawed impression that they need not pay attention to what they wear or how they groom themselves and that my friend is a no no.

You might not spent a lot of time shopping or you might not have a closet full of clothes & shoes but let’s have some unique pieces that reflects our image and lets our fashion or our outward appearance be a good reflection of who you are and what want out of your world.

Because the right impression of yourself to the outside world can go a long way to score you that date or that job interview or the promotion you have your eyes set on.

10 Fashion goals for 2020 1. Shop smart – buy clothes that suit you and your personality because looking attractive doesn’t mean you must wear the trendiest or most expensive clothes.

2. Pay a little more attention to the numerous choices of trends – indulge a little in fashion, it will make life fun, opt for fun colors, prints, fun accessories & shoe dazzles.

3. Decide what image will make you feel comfortable and confident – analyze your body, shape, complexion, personality, lifestyle & profession and dress to suit you.

4. Be little adventurous with your style this year – Some tribal, bohemian & African look won’t hurt. Don’t be so set on being one way and predictable (fashion can be fun) 5. Ladies & Gentlemen some skin care and trip to the hair salon and spa can go along way -appropriate grooming for men and women, wear some make up, care for your skin and hair.

6. Avoid grooming and fashion mistakes – know your environment and dress to suit the occasion eg: gym clothes are gym clothes you don’t wear them to work or church, have your day look and your night look and dress to suit the occasions and still stay true to yourself.

7. Seek help if you have to – when shopping ask questions, get a personal stylist, go to fashion designers, fashion bloggers or a little training- fashion 101.

8. Be beautiful in and out – match your inside with your outside and on a gloomy life day or weather drowning day – throw on some prints, some fun colours to brighten & lighten the mood.

9. Improve your manners and attitude which in turn will improve your image -Learn positive body language and carry yourself like a queen or a king and present yourself the way you want others to see you.

10. Read the Ghanaian news regularly and be on the watch for more fashion tips – be assured it will come with some humour and little jokes to bring on that beautiful smile of yours for the world to see and tips on how to look good and feel crazy good regardless of this weather, age or your background.

RESOLUTION Be determined to achieve as many of these goals as possible. This will improve your self confidence and get you the compliments you rightly deserve.

Thanks for reading. XOXO The Writer is a Fashion designer & an Image Consultant. She’s also the CEO of Beni Boo Styles website: www.beniboo.com twitter: @beniboostyles Facebook: Beni Boo Style Studio

Shop or Order these styles @ Beniboo.com or in stores @ 2581 Eglinton Ave. W Tel: 416-732-0902

56

The Ghanaian News December 2019

End-of-year Party held by Lighthouse Assembly of God

By Staff Reporter, Toronto, ON

Sunday December 29, at the Elegant Destiny Banquet Hall, 4220 Steeles Avenue West, Woodbridge was the place where the party was held. The event was organized by the church for the members and their loved ones to get together in spirit of Rev. & Mrs. Keelson

Christmas.

Some of the Church members

Mr. & Mrs. Sarfo Boateng (right) and guests Agya Obeng (MC) and wife Sylvia Adjei Darko and Owura Kwame Okyere

Mr. & Mrs. Asante Yirenkyi Church member

Some Church members and guests

Some of the Church members

Mr. & Mrs. Sarfo Kantanka

Youth at the party

Some of the Church members

Serving the dinner Some of the Church members

Some of the Church members

The Ghanaian News December 2019 57

CLASSIFIED Classic Videos/Photos

Cynthia High Tech Videos

Nyarkoh Plumbing

* Weddings *Birthdays *Christenings *Portraits

For All Your Plumbing Needs

Quality Video Productions

Call Robert Nyarkoh 416-731-1679

New Home & Renovation All Repairs * Plugged Toilet * Plugged Drains

Call Albert Aikins

Isaac Best Photos Inc. Specialize In Weddings: * Christenings * Outdoorings * Parties * Funerals * Private pictures

Tel: 416-244-3465 Cell: 416-278-9674 15 Lexington Ave, Unit 4, Etobicoke, Ont. M9V 2G4

* Weddings * Special Occasions * Christenings * Sporting Events * Birthdays * Anniversaries * Anniversaries * Seminars * And Much More

Cell: 647-898-1892

Tel: 647-914-7239

Action Navigator Video Productions

Call Us

SPECIAL EVENT VIDEO COVERAGE FOR ALL OCCASIONS QUALITY D.V VIDEO COVERAGE BIRTHDAYS, WEDDINGS, FUNERALS, OUTDOORINGS, ANNIVERSARIES PARTIES ETC.

First

ONE STEP AHEAD IN QUALITY TWO STEPS BEHIND IN PRICE

The Ghanaian

CALL : ACTION NAVIGATOR

(JOE) 416-616-6070

3 Knightbridge, Brampton, Ont., L6T 3X3

News

Barber Wanted

416-916-3700

and Chair for Rent

Nana Ebrey Video Production & Barber Shop Super Quality Videos Specializing in: Video coverage: Weddings, Outdooring, General Events, Birthday parties, Broadcasting Videos,

Nana's Barber Shop

Hair Stylist and Braider wanted for commission Contact: 647-628-4288 or visit us @1844 Jane Street

MAGS MECHANICAL

Super Hair Cuts & Designs

Call Nana Ebrey 416-825-3413

10 Garfella Dr., Etobicoke, (Martin Grove/Albion)

The D.J.’s 911 Soundz

Plumbing & Heating

Specializing: Service Preventative Maintenance Boilers Furnace Plumbing DHW Re'circ Pumps Sump Pumps Cold Water Booster Pumps Cleaning of DHW Storage Tanks Garage exhaust fans garage heaters Kitchen/bathroom Exhaust, Etc.

Good Rate, Excellent Service Call Magnus Manso

Tel: 905-796-6575

Contact Us Today For Your Appointment

“We Are The Best Among The Rest In Toronto” We cover All occasions and gatherings.

We offer the best rate in GTA

Licence Boiler/FurnaceTechnician 1

Cell: 416-712-1052

6699 Falconer Drive #41 Mississauga, Ont., L5N 2E3 P.O. Box 323, Station 'A' Etobicoke, Ont. M9C 4V3

DJ Emmanuel Osei-Tutu

416-450-6156

DJ (Fine Bee) Charles Addo 905-550-9004

DJ Joseph Osei-Tutu

647-887-5858

58

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Micangel Global Inc. Shipping and Freight Forwarding

SEA * AIR * LAND Fast Easy And Reliable Service To All African Countries and Other Worldwide Ports CUSTOM CLEARANCE, PICK-UP, DELIVERY Call Angelina Tel: 416-457-1174 1889 Albion Road, Unit 7, Etobicoke, Ont.

Call Us First The Ghanaian News 416-916-3700

The Ghanaian News December 2019 59

CARGO - LINK INTERNATIONAL (Freight Forwarders & Consolidators) Competent Commitment & Excellence

www.220v.com

For your Reliable Export Services - Shipping Services to Ghana, Nigeria, Clearing & Delivery Services in Ghana

We Carry Brand Name 220/50Hz Export Model

BIG GENERATOR SALE Household Products Kitchen Appliances Generator Unlocked GSM Cellphones Nokia, Motorola, Samsung, Siemens

* You don't need to go to the Port * You don't need to see any Agent * Just see a CARGO-LINK Representative in Accra & Kumasi for your Safe & Affordable Shipment * We also do door to door in Accra & Kumasi at very low transportation cost (EXTRA) * We give Bill of Lading too to those who want to clear their own goods Contact: Regina or B'B Manu

Tel: 416-736-1905 416-822-9462 Fax: 416-736-9973

LCD/LED/Plasma TVs

BIG Generator Sale Freezer

1111 Finch Ave. W., Unit 31, North York

Tel: 416-646-0495

Hi-Tech Shipping

Gas & Electric Stoves

FREEZERS, REFRIGERATORS, WASHERS, DRYERS, AIR CONDITIONERS, VACUUM CLEANERS, TRANSFORMERS

BLACK STAR FAST SHIPPING INC. Freight Forwarding

WE BAIL USED CLOTHINGS

Linda

Tel: 647-231-4504 or 416-988-1842

63 Huxley Rd. Unit 61 (Wilson/Clayson) Toronto, ON, M9M 3B4

Go Seko Shipping Inc.

Freight Forwarding Division & Bailing of Used Clothes * Yam * Gari * Rice * Accra Kenkey * Canned Food * Dry Fish * Koobi and Many More We ship Cars, Trucks, Electrical Appliances, Computers, Clothing, Barrels, Personal Effects and many more Call Nana Djan

Tel: 647-895-1315, 416-913-1986, Fax: 416-850-0580 E-mail: sekoshipping@gmail.com

We ship to all African Countries. We are the cheapest, Fastest and most reliable agents in town.

We have been in successful business for twenty years.

5707 Steeles Ave. West,Toronto, Ont. M9L 1S7

The Most Reliable Way to Ship Overseas!

Fast, Reasonable and VERY Great Competitive Rates!

We Ship Trucks to Cars, Personal Items, Building materials, Used Clothes and Electronics. Also Deep Freezers and other.

Freight Forwarders & Consolidators 230 Milvan Drive, Toronto, Ontario, M9L 2A5

South East Corner of Steeles and Fenmar / Pine Valley

Tawiah

52 Carrier Drive, #8 (Hwy 27 & Carrier)

We have moved to 14,000 sq ft. facility to serve you better. We have quality mattress for sale all sizes

Call Kobby or Nana Ababio

Tel: 416-744-2300 / 416-640-2310

60

The Ghanaian News December 2019

PLACES OF WORSHIP DIRECTORY

Ghana Methodist Churches in Canada ( SOCIETIES UNDER THE GHANA METHODIST CONFERENCE) The Superintendents Minister-In-Charge invites

you to worship with us

Toronto Society

Place of Worship: 69 Milvan Drive, North York, Ont. (Finch Av./Milvan)

416-743-4555 (Office) 905-216-2323 (Residence) Day and Time of Worship:

Very Rev. Joseph Owusu Atuahene Minister-in-charge

Edmonton Methodist 587-336-1223

Ottawa Methodist

Sunday: Bible Class Meeting:

10:00 a.m. - 10.30 a.m.

Church Service:

10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Jericho Hour Prayer Meeting 8:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Wednesday Mid-day Prayer - 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Friday: Bible Teaching/Prayer Meeting 8:00 p.m. - 9.00 p.m.

Saturday Organizational Meeting: 6.30 p.m. - 9.30 p.m.

Sunday Brampton Prayer Meeting

8:00 p.m.

Redemption Methodist Church

BETHANY METHODIST CHURCH-BRAMPTON

Weekly Service Schedule: Monday 7 pm - 8 pm Online Bible Study: Thursday 7 pm - 8:30 pm, Prayer Meeting Friday 7:30 pm - 9 pm

Divine Service, Sundays 10 am - 12:30 pm Contacts: Agnes Donkor - 647-881-4808, Felicia Owusu - 647-533-1093, Grace Kubi - 647-608-5373

PLACE OF WORSHIP1A KNIGHTSBRIGE ROAD (Senior’s Lounge)

Location: 955 Wilson Ave., Unit 12, North York, ON

613-823-2291

Vancouver Methodist 416-833-1615

In Montreal at:

Place of Worship: 6870 Rue de Terreborne, Montreal, Que, H4B 1C5

Day and Time of Worship Sunday Divine Service: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Very Reverend Albert K. Appiah,

Friday Prayer Meetings: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Contact: Rev. Joshua C. Doughan - 514-542-0871

Hamilton Society

Stoney Creek United Church (Chapel) 1 King Street West, Stoney Creek, Hamilton Contact: 289-244-5914, 289-700-6815, 289-698-1388

Sunday Divine Service 2PM-5PM Online Prayer Meeting Fridays at 8PM -9PM 416-800-4317 Code # 9632581 Contact: Robert Frans (289-541-5579) Felix Gyimah (289-931-8443)

SERVICES ARE CONDUCTED FOLLOWING THE TRADITIONAL GHANA METHODIST LITURGY. PLEASE COME AND JOIN US. WE HAVE A PLACE FOR YOU. GOD RICHLY BLESS YOU

Disciples Revival Church

Healing & Deliverance Centre Rev. Dr. & Rev (Mrs) Charles Mantey Founders/Senior Pastors

416-614-7771

CHRIST REDEEMER CHURCH

Pastor-in-charge: Pastor Eric Amoah Tel: (416) 748-1242 Cell: (416) 300-9970 Church Services Sunday Service: Bible Study: 10 a.m.-11a.m.

Worship Service: 11a.m. - 1p.m.

Wednesday: Bible Study 6:30p.m.-7:30p.m.

Pastor Eric Amoah Friday Night Prayer: 8p.m.-10p.m.

Location: 14 Haas Rd. , #100, Etobicoke, ON, M9W 3A2

Email:

info@disciplesrevivalchurch.org www.disciplesrevivalchurch.org

SUNDAY SERVICE - Morning - 10:00 am

Christian Hope Ministry Int'l Invites You All To Come Worship With Us

Apostle-in-charge: Apostle Twumasi Ankrah

Mid-Week Service

Wed: Bible Study & Prayer: 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm Friday: Youth Service 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Friday: Adult Intercessory Prayer - 7:00 - 9:00 pm For deliverance & healing, come to Disciples, a Church that caters to your needs Do visit our website and sign up for the Pastor's monthly newsletter

www.disciplesrevivalchurch.org

30 Gordon Mackay Rd, North York, ON, M9N 2V6

Apostle Twumasi Ankrah

Tel: 647-916-0780 / 647-703-9717 TIME OF WORSHIP: Sunday 10:30 am - 1:30 pm Tuesday 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Friday 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

VENUE: 1177 Finch Dr. #20, North York "And these signs will follow those who believe, in My Name they will cast out demons, they will speak with new tongues, they will take up serpents, and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them, they will lay hands on the sick , and they will recover. Amen (Mark 16:17)

"COME AND EXPERIENCE THE POWER OF GOD"

FOOD FOR LIFE

The Ghanaian News December 2019 61

Bringing the Gospel to our Community by Rev. Isaac DeGraft Takyi THE IMPORTANCE OF PERSONAL RETREAT “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest. How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest— and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man.”— Proverbs 6:6-11 NIV The word retreat has different meanings but what is applicable to this article is: a period of time used to pray and study quietly, or to think carefully, away from normal activities and duties: A retreat is also a private and safe place where you can be alone.

There is time for everything on the surface of the earth. As Ecclesiastes reveals,there is time for cooperate worship, praise time, prayer, fasting and retreat. I know there are churches where groups go on retreat to wait on the Lord and seek Him for guidance and direction.

As we bring 2019 to an end and look up to 2020, my mind is filled with questions such as: what do I do to make 2020 a unique year? What does God have in mind for me in 2020? What kind of people do I have to connect with to help me maximize my potential? What is God’s purpose and plan for my life in 2020?

These questions cannot be answered without the believer going before God in a retreat to spend time alone with God, armed with the Bible and a plan to follow.

My admonishing will be to encourage every reader to set aside at least two days for your personal end-of-year retreat to

books did you read? What did you read to help you improve your marriage, finance, business, or parenting?

5. Review how much you have taken care of your body—your physical body.

Ask for forgiveness from God where you have been careless with your body, eating unhealthily and not being mindful what you put intoyour body, which is the Temple of God. Confess any form of carelessness.

Be attentive to details in your physical life.

review, reflect, learn and set goals for the coming year.

What are some of the activities that should be happening during your personal time of retreat?

1. Thanksgiving and praise: The Lord never gets tired with thanksgiving; be meticulous with your thanksgiving and praise—mention the things you are thankful for. Take out quality time to thank God. 2. Review your progress for the current year—sincerely, unashamedly, honestly, carefully.

3. Consider your spiritual life, passion for God, illumination of the word (what do you know), your character—Ask yourself: “Am I useful to the church, society and country?” The key is honesty before God. 4. Your mental development and capacity: Did you acquire useful information to help you? Did you allow your mind to die without growth and usefulness? What

GLOBAL UNIVERSITY LEARNING CENTER LIVING WORD ASSEMBLY OF GOD TORONTO, CANADA GLOBAL UNIVERSITY: ACCREDITED, ACCESIBLE AND AFFORDABLE Living Word Assembly of God Church, 139 Millwick Avenue, Toronto, Canada is affiliated with Global University, as a Learning Center. We are delighted that you are seeking to prepare yourself for service in God’s harvest field. We trust you will identify a program of study to help you prepare for God’s call on your life.

Global University is a Christian University in the Pentecostal Tradition. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission in the USA, part of the North Central Region that includes, Ohio State, University of Chicago, Moody Bible Institute.

Global University is Accessible, you can study anywhere at any time through our open enrolment.

Global University tuition is Affordable, the lowest of any highly accredited distance education university.

Global University learners benefit not only from increased knowledge through studying course content but also from spiritual growth and increased discipline. Should you enroll and study with Global University, you will not be studying alone. Instead, you will join students studying in literally every time zone of the world.

Motto: Winning the Lost and Training the Found Everywhere.

To register please contact

Rev. Dr. Paa Kwesi Dadzie (Director) 416-831-2488 or Church Office: Mrs. Victoria Mintah (Administrator)

416 741-6285

6. Review your assignment—your reason, purpose, kingdom service—Ask yourself: Did I make progress this year? Can I say that I have moved forward (in the volume of the book to do Your will, Hebrews 10:7). God designed my life to be well invested in fulfilling my purpose. The devil makes people busy without progress.

Learn from the example of Jesus, in His frequent retreats and withdrawal from the crowd to seek God. What was your level of commitment, diligence, truthfulness?

7. Review your Finances; be very unapologetic about it. Do not downplay your financial responsibility to advance the kingdom of God. If you spend all your life looking for money, it is a curse! Be watchful and intentional to chase God and not money; never plan to pursue money all your life. Ask God to help you not to make financial pursuits your life’s goal, as that is indeed a curse. If your whole life is built around money, then this money is not a blessing. Were you able to engage the keys that brought you financial blessing? How obedient were you in paying your tithe and offering?What did you do with the tithe that belongs to God? Did you use it for “419”? If you did, then confess it in prayer to God: “Lord, I bought things with Your money to show to people who are not even

watching;O Lord, please forgive me. Lord, I did not give You what I was supposed to give You; Father, please forgive me.”In the Kingdom of God, the amount you give matters. How is your level of giving and your level of blessing this year? What do you understand about finances?

8.

Relationships—marital, career, business, destiny relationships, tribalassociations, church, other people, etc. As the Scripture has said, walk with the wise and be wise (Proverbs 13:20).

So, ask: “Whose presence destroyed my potential and productivity? Who should I have given attention to this year that could have made me better?” All your life depends on this!

9. Have your Bible, pen or pencil, notebook, laptop or anything to write on and please listen to God and write your insights, revelations, and promptings down, and be ready to run with it.

“Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.

“I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence; I possess knowledge and discretion. To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech. Counsel and sound judgment are mine; I have insight, I have power. By me kings reign and rulers issue decrees that are just; by me princes govern, and nobles— all who rule on earth. I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.

With me are riches and honor, enduring wealth and prosperity.I walk in the way of righteousness, along the paths of justice, bestowing a rich inheritance on those who love me and making their treasuries full.”

Proverbs‬ 8:10-18, 20-21‬ NIV‬‬

62

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Asanteman Association of Toronto elects new Asantefuohene and Obarima Kofi Gyamfi elected new Toronto Asantefuohene

cont’d from pg. 39

and Ghana were rendered after which Nana Osei-Acheampong, the Asanteman Abusuapanin gave the purpose of the election and handed the microphone over to the MC, Nana Akwasi Adjei.

The 7-member Electoral Commission under the chairmanship Nana Tabiri were introduced to conduct the election after which the modalities of the voting were clearly spelt out. 5 candidates contested for 4 positions, 3 of which were contested unopposed with the exception of the Kontihene position which was contested by 2 candidates Obarima Osei Mensah and Obarima Omono Asamoah. According to the Electoral Commission, the unopposed candidates were not going to be acclaimed but should garner 50+1 percent of the votes.

The Ghana Consul General in Toronto, Thomas Seshie took the opportunity to address the crowd as the votes were being tallied. The Consul General stated that he was impressed with how the executives has managed the affairs of the association.

He added that President Nana Addo has instructed him to convey his gratitude to the various associations especially the chiefs who welcomed him in their rich kente costumes. The High Commissioner, H.E. Ayikoi Otoo also extended his warmest greetings to you. He concluded that “We have to meet to have discussions of the problems facing the community and how best to solve them.”

The Electoral Commission after the counting announced the results as follows: the position of the Asantefuohne, Obarima Kofi Gyamfi got elected with 70 yes votes

with 5 no votes, Ohemaa-ObaaYaa Owusu garnered 75 votes with 1 spoiled ballot, Kontihemaa-Obaa Margaret Bonsu got 75 votes. The Kontihene position was a duel between ObarimaOmono Asamoah and Obarima Osei Mensah. Obarima Omono Asamoah prevailed with 66 votes to Obarima Osei Mensah’s 9 votes, with 1 spoiled ballot.

As custom demands powder was poured on all the winners as a sign of victory.

Obarima Kofi Gyamfi, the Asantefuoheneelect was carried shoulder high to celebrate his ascendancy to the kingship.Obarima Osei Mensah, conceded and congratulated his opponent Obarima Omono Asamoah and promised to continue to serve the association.

Nananom at the event then took turns to advice the successful candidates.

They admonished them to be inclusive in steering the affairs of the association.

Thereafter, the candidates were given the opportunity to speak. They all reiterated their willingness to work for the betterment of the association. The Asantefuohene-elect Obarima Kofi Gyamfi thanked all who voted for him and promised to uphold the power entrusted to him and will work with all to uplift the association to higher heights.

He is popularly known as DJ Adams and is the proprietor of Manhyia Palace.

The celebration for the successful candidates began in earnest as they went round the hall to thank all who came to vote as well as observers. The date for the swearing in is yet to be announced when the stool names will be given as well as when the other sub-chiefs will be introduced.

Ghana Calvary Methodist United Church, Toronto Tel: 416-614-6110 647-341-7305 Email: gcmuc.org

Invites all Christians to join us to worship and glorify the Living God

Church Activities Sunday: Church Service - Akan: 10:00 am - 12:30 pm English Service: 10 a.m. - 12 noon

Minister in charge Pastor Eric Nyarko

Monday: Online Prayers - 7 pm - 8 pm 647-797-3341 / 1-855-643-8375 Wednesday: Online Bible Study - 7 pm - 8:30 pm Friday: Bible Teachings / Prayer Meeting: 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Last Friday of every month: Half night service 8 pm - 12 midnight Saturday - Organizational Meetings Choir Practice, Singing Band Practice 6 pm - 9 pm

Venue of Worship 65 Mayall Avenue, Toronto, ON Tel: 416-614-6110 Email: gcmuc.org

The Ghanaian News December 2019 63

EVANGEL

ASSEMBLY OF GOD CHURCH

314 Rexdale Blvd. Etobicoke, Ont. M9W 1R6 Tel: 416-242-7950 Fax: 416-242-8573 Church Activities

Pastor in Charge

Rev. Milton Offei

Sunday School: Church Service: Sunday Evening: Wednesday Bible Studies: Friday Prayer Meeting:

10a.m. -11:00a.m.

11a.m. - 1:30p.m.

7p.m. - 8:30p.m.

7p.m. - 8:30p.m.

7p.m. - 9:00p.m.

I AM ALPHA & OMEGA MINISTRY INT'L We invite you to worship with us Church Service:

Sunday Worship: 10.00a.m. - 12.30 p.m.

Wednesday Bible Studies: 6.00p.m. - 7.30 p.m.

Friday Prayer Meeting: 7.00p.m. - 9.00 p.m.

JESUS Loves You

Bishop John Mensah

NEW LOCATION 100 Penn Drive, Unit #6, North York, Ont.

Tel: 416-419-6671

Transformation Centre

Assembly of God Church, Mississauga Join us on Sundays for Worship at:

Venue: 161 Lakeshore Road W, Mississauga, ON

Time: 10:30am—1:30pm

Contact: Rev. Isaac K. Bonful Tel: 289-814-5482

Email: transformcentreag@yahoo.ca Website: www. transformationcentreag.ca Be transformed by the renewing of your mind… “Rom.12:2a

Good Shepherd Prayer Ministry Invites you all to come worship with us Venue: 95 Eddystone Ave unit 4 North York, ON Time of worship: Sunday:10am - 1pm Wednesday bible studies 7pm - 9pm Friday Prayer / Deliverance 7pm - 9pm

Bethel Prayer Ministry Int'l

Do you desire to experience the power and the presence of God demonstrated in your life?

Do you want to experience the marvelous work of God's grace in your life?

Then, Bethel Prayer Ministry International would like to invite you to visit their church where the word of God is preached powerfully to release the power of God in your life.

Pastor Dennis Awuku COME AND YOU WILL BE BLESSED Senior Pastor

Contact:

Cell. 416-400-8211 Church 416-642-0390 Worship Hours: Sunday Service: 9am - 1pm Tuesday 9am - 2 pm Consultation Wednesday: 7pm - 9p.m.

Friday: 9pm - 12 pm Saturday (Prayer Warriors) 6pm - 8pm Location: 52 Carrier Drive, Unit 12, (Albion/Hwy 27)

Etobicoke, Ont., M9w 5S5

Harvest Christian Church Invites you for a wonderful time with the Lord

Worship Hours Pastor Joseph Nash Sarfo Founder & Pastor-in-charge

The thief cometh not , but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.11.l am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. Amen.

John 10 :10-11

Tel: 416 667-9763 cell 647 500-4415 / 647 718-4819 / 416 300-4258 Email:pastorjsarfo@gmail.com I encourage you to join us in worship regardless of your situation the power of God is available to make you whole

Sundays (Mornings) 10 - 12:45pm Wednesday (Bible Study) 7 -8:30 pm Friday (All Night Prayer) 8-10:30pm Rev Moses Sarpong

Come and Experience the power of the Word Join us at 196 Toryork Drive(Corner of Weston/Finch)

Tel: 416-743-2507

It’s Harvest Time So Reach Out And Make A Difference

It’s A Great Commission!

64

The Ghanaian News December 2019

The Apostolic Church Int'l.

The Apostolic Church International (Toronto Assembly) is a Branch of The Apostolic Church in Ghana Apostle Nii Aryee (Area Supt. Canada-Wide)

Meeting Schedule Sunday (Worship) Wednesday Teaching Service Friday Prayers Friday: Monthly All Night Service Saturday : Movements -

- - - -

10:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

10:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.

5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

THE APOSTLES'

Field Superintendent contact: 416-454-6141 (cell) 905-913-2037 (Res)

CONTINUATION CHURCH INTERNATIONAL (CANADA)

168 Rexdale Blvd.,

North American Headquarters: 10 Belfield Road Toronto, Ont., M9W 1G1 Tel: 416-247-6629 Fax: 416-247-5308

Etobicoke, Ontario, M9W 1P6 Church Office 416-740-1979 Field Secretary: Pastor Cyril Williams - 416-875-9616

Lighthouse Assembly of God Church

2019: BEARING THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT SUNDAY SERVICES: 10:00 am-1:30 pm Ghanaian Service WEEKDAY SERVICES: Wednesday - Bible Studies Friday - Prayer Service LOCATION:

42 Steinway Blvd. Unit 1&2

(Hwy 27/Steeles) Toronto, Ontario, M9W 6Y6

Tel: 416-740-1200 Fax: 416-740-6435

Email: lighthouseag@outlook.com Website: http:/www/lighthouseag.ca www.lighthouseagtoronto.org

Rhema Power of Grace Chapel Int'l

SERVICE TIMES:

Worship Service Bible Studies Service All Night Service Deliverance

Toronto

Rev. Bishop Joe Bonnah

Sunday Divine Worship Twi Service - 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Multicultural Service - 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Wednesday - Midweek Service Friday - All Night Service

Founder &Pastor-in-charge

-

8p.m. - 10p.m.

10p.m. - 1a.m.

Contact Lines: 416-321-2796 (Pastor's Res) 416-747-9225 (Church) Cell: 647-921-2414

378 Cremazie East Montreal, Quebec, H2P 1E5

Scarborough Assembly

63 Howden Rd., Unit 'F' Scarborough, ON, M1R 3C7 Tel 647-850- 0142 Fax 416-945- 9445

Tel: 514-271-9083

Pastor-In-Charge: John Arhin

Contact: Res: 450-687-4916 Cell: 514-654-6178

Immanuel Assembly of God Church, Scarborough

Place of Worship:

Days And Time of Worship

Montreal Assembly

10 Belfield Road Tel: 416-247-6629

Invites all Christians, Non-Christians and members of the community to join us worship the Great Jehovah

350 Deerhide Cres, North York, ON

- Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday 9:00 p.m.

- Friday 9:30 p.m.

- Saturday 4:00 p.m.

Worship With Us At These Branches In Canada

Pastor-in-charge: Rev. Boniface Keelson

7:00 pm - 9:00 pm 7:00 pm -9:00 pm

Website: www.apostlescontinuation.org

Apostle Charles Anokye-Manu

Rev. Douglas O. Ansah Pastor-in-charge

Sunday School: 9:30am -10:30am Church Service: 10:30am - 12 noon

LOCATION Don Montgomery Community Centre 2467 Eglinton Ave. E. Scarborough, Ont., (Kennedy/Eglinton Subway Station)

For more info contact:

647-880-4216

Email: immanuelscarborough@gmail.com Website: immanuelaog.ca.

The Ghanaian News December 2019 65

Welcome Home

Evangelistic Ministries

Affiliated with the Evangelical Church In Canada

Gen. Overseer & Founder: Evang. & Prophetess Winnie Manu BRE, M. Div.

New address:

Heart Lake United Church 85 Sandalwood Pkwy E. Brampton, ON Sunday Morning Worship Celebration start from 1:30 pm Wednesday Discipleship class is 7pm Friday Prayer meeting is 7pm Contact Info: Tel: 647 210 7057 Fax: 905 495 4789 Website: www.wheministries.org

Rev. George Agyei Kwabi

Email: whemtoday@gmail.com

66

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Glory Pentecostal Ministry of Toronto

Pastor-in-charge: Rev. Rockson Owusu Atwima - 416-708-7742

Invites all Christians and Non-Christians to join us to worship the Almighty God WORSHIP SCHEDULE Sunday Regular Service 11:00 am to 1:30 pm Tuesday Prayer and Healing Service 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Friday Prayer Night 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm

PLACE OF WORSHIP 230 Eddystone Ave., #207, North York, Ont. M3N 1H7 We are more tan our conquerors Romans 8:37

"Come and see the manifestation and the power of the Holy Spirit at work"

Praise Temple of Christ International Snr. Pastor: Apostle Osei-Bonsu 336 Gary Ray Drive @ Signet Worship Schedule Sunday Worship - 10 am - 12:30 pm Wednesday - Bible Study - 7 pm - 9 pm Friday - Prayer Meeting - 8 pm - 10 pm Second and last Friday of each month All Night Prayer Meeting 10 p.m. - 2 a.m.

Apostle Osei Bonsu

Pastor Appiah Jacob

For information call: 905-840-7387, 647-208-1093 416-209-9136, 647-710-2573

Church of Christ Ghanaian Congregation Greater Toronto Area Matthew 16:18

Address: 1117 Albion Rd. (Forum Banquet Hall) Hwy 27/Albion

Every Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon Contact Information Adu Kwasi 647-745-8074 Brother Acheampong 416-671-4268 Sam - Ghana House 647-867-2020 Brother Agyenim 647-656-9905 Brother Ato 416-728-8574 Brother Asamoah 647-867-0945

All Are Invited

How busyness leads to bad decisions cont’d from pg. 44 up focusing our time and attention on whatever’s right in front of us, which, these days, is email.

Busy-loving humans have such an aversion to idleness, in fact, that one study found people preferred giving themselves electric shocks rather than have nothing to do. “So it’s easy to be swept up trying to keep on top of your email inbox,” Violante says. “It allows us to be busy, which feels good. But it leads to a false reward.” Like mistaking busyness for productivity.

To get out of that particular busyness tunnel, Violante suggests experimenting with checking mail on a schedule.

That idea, which Violante herself has adopted, is based on research that found smokers given a smoking schedule had greater success quitting than through other methods.

The reason, researchers surmised, is that a schedule not only gave people practice and confidence in not smoking, but also broke the link between habitual smoking cues and actually lighting up. A similar idea holds true for email: a 2015 study found that people who check their email on a schedule felt happier and less stressed out than those who checked constantly – which many of us do, spending about five hours a day nosing about our inboxes.

Violante also suggests that teams set communication protocols for when a response is expected and agree to send emails out only during work hours. To preserve mental bandwidth, she recommends an email mindset shift. “It’s not about having, literally, zero emails in your inbox, but having no ambiguity about what’s in there and having a plan for what’s most important to respond to,” she explains. Though she recognises it’s not easy. “Even behavioural scientists have addiction problems with email.”

How scarcity shrinks mental bandwidth The concepts of scarcity and tunnelling were first described in behavioural science research on poverty.

Anandi Mani, a professor

of behavioural economics at the Blavatnik School of Government at Oxford, and her colleagues wanted to understand what led poor people to make bad choices with their money, such as borrowing at high interest rates or playing the lotto, that can keep them trapped in poverty.

They studied sugar cane farmers in India, and gave them cognitive tests both when the farmers were flush with money right after harvest and when, months later, money was scarce.

The researchers found that scarcity itself created such a tax on mental bandwidth that the farmers’ IQ tests dropped 13 points between flush and scarce times.

“There is a direct parallel between scarcity of money and scarcity of time,” Mani says. “With money, we do what’s urgent – we pay this bill, we try to make the budget work, even when we know it’s more important to take time to be a good parent or talk to your mom.

At work, it’s the same. We get captured by whatever’s in front of our face, and we don’t give ourselves the space or introspection to think about what might be more meaningful to do.”

To step out of the time scarcity tunnel, Mani suggests first becoming aware of how you may be trapped in busyness.

If you can, you might try smoothing your workload or spreading it out over time, much like research on how income smoothing helps those with money scarcity better weather financial volatility and keep from falling into episodic poverty. Then work with others to create and enforce group norms around taking breaks – at work, during the week, at the weekend.

“The old rules – you don’t work on the Sabbath – creating forced slack in our schedules, has real value,” Mani says. She herself is experimenting with 15 minutes of meditation every morning. “It’s making me more aware during the day,” she says. “Honestly, this is a topic which pushes me to a lot of soul searching.”

Plan your time with greater care

Anuj Shah, a professor of behavioural science at the University of Chicago, says scarcity creates its own mindset. His research, in which participants played online games and were either “rich” or “poor” in the number of guesses or attempts allowed, was surprising. Those who were “poor” were actually much more accurate or careful with their resources. But because scarcity narrowed their bandwidth, they were so focused on the current round, they were unable to strategise about the future and made disastrous choices, like borrowing at exorbitant rates, that wound up costing them dearly.

So to keep from tunnelling on the wrong thing or neglecting important tasks that seem less urgent at the moment but will pay greater dividends in the long run, Shah says, people need to recognise that time and bandwidth are limited resources and begin to think of choices around them as trade-offs.

For instance, he says, when we look at our calendar six months from now, it often appears wide open and free of all commitments. So we can overcommit ourselves, which can lead to more time scarcity and tunnelling in the future. “But we know that in six months, that week is going to look a lot like this week, which is usually pretty busy,” Shah says. “So you need to think – how would I fit this in this week? What would I have to give up to do it? We need to realise that slack in the future is an illusion.” It’s a practice he follows as well.

Shah’s colleague Sendhil Mullainathan suggests thinking about our schedules as less like a pantry that we cram anything and everything into, and more like an art gallery where we intentionally decide what is most important and how to arrange it so that everything fits. He recommends setting alerts to help us remember what’s important when we start to fall into the scarcity trap.

“Once we’re short on time, we’re already in a bad situation,” Shah says. “But if we learn to manage the time beforehand, we can keep that from happening in the future.” BBC News

Call Us First The Ghanaian News 416-916-3700

The Ghanaian News December 2019 67

Mr. President, Please engage our youth in the Nation’s Agenda

Church leaders must ensure security on church premises Opuni-Frimpong

We need a youth summit with our President, now!

Recently, the President of Rwanda ,Mr. Paul Kagame, gathered 3,000 youths of his country to map out the development agenda for the next 25years and beyond. The gathering was aimed to provide the opportunity for the president to engage the youth in his nation’s aspirations and potentials .Why not in Ghana?

development?

Rwanda, once upon a time was a war -torn country which was ruined by tribal infamy and yet it has able to get up and be counted as one of the pillars of Africa.

What is their secret?

Mark my word, if the NPP wants to retain power in 2020 there is no guarantee than bringing the youths of this nation together and ask for their contributions and their visions for the nation.

This should be done before the year ends.

With that in mind, I would like to suggest to our President to have a youth SUMMIT(ASAP) and invite about 3,000 of our young people across the nation (from all walks of life)to plan for the next 25 years and beyond. It’s a right thing to do!

By so doing he would be able to gauge the temperature of the nation and the potentials of our future leadership. The youth would be able to tell him what he doesn’t want hear ,but needs to hear. The question is this: If they’re our future leaders how come we’re not preparing them for any leadership skills or role? How come we’re not engaging them in the national debates?

How come they’re not playing any meaningful role in the national

It’s so sad that the only time we want the youths is when we want to use them for our own political interests and then we abandon them like used tires ;right after election. But, can we sincerely say that this nation can prosper without the inputs of our youths?

In fact, history will continue to judge our past and present leaderships for not making use of our youth.

The fundamental reality is that Ghanaian youths appear to be falling way, way, behind the youths of comparable nations with limited natural resources and potentials than Ghana.

I don’t think if our leaders knew this: This much is known about the so-called our future leaders. They’re poor, unemployed, living in rural areas , underemployed, probably hungry and angry as hell. The average young person in this country is lacking education, miseducated or having inadequate education,

as are essential services and adequate skills for the new knowledge economy. That is why they’re easily lured into substance abuse ,risky sexual behavior, crime, violence, and over-consumption of ‘imported life-styles and cultures.

The general exclusion from the decision-making process has also left them disillusioned and angry.

In addition to our decrepit education system, the youth’s lack of opportunity, and other related crisis have not been addressed enough by our leaderships, politicians and policy makers. In fact, our youths feel rootless, isolated, neglected, hapless, hopeless, unloved, untouched, and simply unattended to.

But, how long can we ignore them? The volcano is hot and ready to erupt ,but can we contain the ashes or the ‘lava’ ,when things fall apart? The youth summit is not a choice, but a necessity for the nation’s growth, welfare and sanity.

I hope someone listening to my call.

is

Until we meet here again, stay tuned. Be blessed, and educated about issues of our nation. kwaku Adu-Gyamfi (voice of reason)

10 ways to control high blood pressure without medication cont’d from pg. 45

about what causes you to feel stressed, such as work, family, finances or illness. Once you know what’s causing your stress, consider how you can eliminate or reduce stress.

pressure at home and make regular doctor’s appointments

If you have high blood pressure, you may need to monitor your blood pressure at home.

Learning to self-monitor your blood pressure with If you can’t eliminate an upper arm monitor all of your stressors, you can help motivate you. can at least cope with them in a healthier way. . 10. Get support from Take breaks for deep- family and friends breathing exercises. Get Supportive family and a massage or take up friends can help improve yoga or meditation. If your health. They may self-help doesn’t work, encourage you to take seek out a professional care of yourself, drive for counseling. you to the doctor’s office 9. Monitor your blood or embark on an exercise

program with you to keep your blood pressure low. Talk to your family and friends about the dangers of high blood pressure.

If you find you need support beyond your family and friends, consider joining a support group. This may put you in touch with people who can give you an emotional or morale boost and who can offer practical tips to cope with your condition.

Reference: Mayo Clinic House call, May 2010

basic skills in security, body language and how to move people to safety.

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) equipment and other security gadgets must be installed on church premises, while the attention paid to sitting arrangements of new members and visitors, with constant security, “until their dedication can be trusted,” he said.

Opuni-Frimpong The current threats and attacks on some churches, especially in neighbouring Burkina Faso, is a wakeup call to church leaders in Ghana to ensure tight security at their places of worship.

Rev. Dr Kwabena Opuni-Frimpong, a lecturer at the Department of Religious Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), said the safety of church members on church premises had been taken for granted over the years and there was the need to re-consider those safety issues.

“The impression that the churches must take care of their own security under the recent terrorist threats cannot, therefore, be a serious option. Church leaders, members and facilities must be protected from any form of attacks by the state security agencies,” Rev Opuni-Frimpong noted.

He said the state security must even be extended to other religious bodies as Muslims have been attacked by terrorists’ groups in some countries.

“The various security agencies, as a matter of urgency, must initiate a national conversation on the security of our country, especially in the face of terrorist threats and attacks.”

“With the current terrorist threats on churches in some West African countries including Ghana, church leaders must show much more concern about the security of their members and facilities,” he said.

Education and right information on terrorists’ activities must be given to religious leaders, heads of academic institutions, hotel managers, and media houses, among others, to avoid panic and false alarms, he said.

He said the recent terrorists’ attacks on churches in Sri Lanka, Burkina Faso, and other places must set the security strategy agenda.

“The security agencies may need to consider providing the public with additional contact numbers purposely for information on terrorists’ suspicious activities.”

“While trusting the good Lord to provide His people with the security we “Christian and Muslim leaders must must also accept responsibility of our pay much more attention to inter-faith actions. The approach must remain a relations.” divine intervention and human action”.

“We are Ghanaians first before Speaking to the GNA Rev Opuni- becoming members of our various faith Frimpong, a former General Secretary communities. Religious leaders must of the Christian Council of Ghana, strengthen our bond of cooperation said: “In times like this, our Lord Jesus and demonstrate to the world that Christ’s instruction of; watch and pray, we will not allow innocent Ghanaian ought to remain our guiding principle”. blood to be shed just because of our religious, ethnic, political affiliations, He said church leaders, ushers, and differences and expressions,” Rev. other workers must be trained on some Opuni-Frimpong said. GNA

Call Us First The Ghanaian News 416-916-3700

68

The Ghanaian News December 2019

Around the World Sports Scene Canada shakes off early jitters to roar back against U.S. at world juniors Alexis Lafreniere’s quick strike breaks tie in final frame power-play goal in three chances late in the period, but time expired before the puck entered the net.

with Jonathan Baah Annobil

Richard Commey loses IBF title to Teofimo Lopez by TKO

‘That was really fun’ Daws made a couple big stops in the third to keep his team ahead before Hayton found the back of the net on another power play on another slick Lafreniere delivery at 10:47 to make it 4-2.

Robertson, Canada beat the United States of America 6-4 in their opening game at But a Toronto Maple Leafs’ the 2020 world juniors in Czech Republic prospect, got the U.S. back :Canada and the United States Nick Robertson, with a goal within one with 7:45 left in usually save their fireworks and an assist, and Arthur regulation. Pinto then tied it for later.

Kaliyev also scored for the with the Americans’ third with

Huge goals, big saves, Americans, who got 26 saves the man advantage to set the moments of both triumph and from Knight as their streak of table for Lafreniere’s heroics.

“That was really fun,” heartbreak have peppered the 12 straight victories to open intense rivalry at the world the world juniors came to an McMichael said. “You can tell we had a lot of nerves in the junior hockey championship end. through the years.

“It’s one game,” said first period, but we got back With some deft hand-eye Pinto, who added an assist for to our game in the second and coordination and a sweet move a three-point night. “It’s the third.” which in tight, Alexis Lafreniere beginning of the tournament, Canada, wrote his own chapter so we’ve just got to have a according to the website eliteprospects.com is icing Thursday. positive mindset.”

The projected No. ‘It felt like we were its youngest-ever roster at the world juniors with an average 1 selection at the 2020 NHL almost in Canada’ draft scored seven seconds The countries tend age of 18.6 years, found itself after the U.S. tied the game to face off later at the world in an early hole.

Pinto opened the late in the third period as juniors when placed in the part of a stunning four-point same group — often on New scoring on a deflection at performance, lifting Canada Year’s Eve — but instead 3:10 with Hayton in the box to a wild 6-4 victory over its met on Boxing Day in front as Canadian fans were in the North American neighbour of a pro-Canadian crowd of process of passing a giant flag in the tournament opener for 8,963 that included hundreds across the lower bowl.

Canada started to get both countries. of travelling fans at Ostravar going midway through the

“He’s unbelievable,” Arena. said Canadian captain Barrett “The atmosphere was period with an energetic shift Hayton, whose two power- unbelievable,” Hayton said. capped by hulking six-foot-six play goals came on Lafreniere “It felt like we were almost in defenceman Kevin Bahl using a 10-inch height advantage setups. “He brings so many Canada.” different facets out there. It’s In Group B’s early to lower the boom on Bobby underrated. He brings a ton of game, the host Czech Republic Brink.

But the Canadians energy. upset Russia 4-3. Next up for

“You see his skill set Canada is Saturday’s tilt with didn’t really threaten Knight’s ... really couldn’t ask for better the Russians, while the U.S. goal, and the U.S. doubled its passes.” goes right back at it Friday lead with 1:28 left in the first on a power play when Kaliyev Connor McMichael, Nolan versus Germany.

Foote and Ty Dellandrea, Down 2-0 after the first, the found the range. into an empty net, also scored Canadians came out flying in for Canada, which got 28 the second with three goals in ‘It was special’ Canada, however, would saves from Nico Daws in his just over 10 minutes. international debut.

McMichael got things started respond in impressive fashion.

“He’s an amazing for the 17-time gold medallists “It’s that kind of a tournament,” player,” McMichael added at 3:31 when he took a pass Hayton said. “You get those about Lafreniere. “The way from Akil Thomas off the rush swings. You have to stick with it.” he carried the team today and beat Knight.

The U.S. came in and did the things he did was Hayton, who was incredible.” loaned to Canada for the having won four straight

After watching Shane tournament by the Arizona and six of its last 11 against Pinto bury his second of the Coyotes, tied it on a power Canada after picking up just night — and third goal on the play at 6:34 when Lafreniere two victories — albeit in the man advantage for the U.S. found him for a one-timer 2004 and 2010 gold-medal with 3:18 left in regulation just seven seconds after Pinto, games — in the countries’ 10 — Lafreniere responded in a second-round pick of the previous meetings dating back the blink of an eye to push his Ottawa Senators, went off for to 2000.

While none of the team back in front. holding.

One of five returning Foote, whose father players on the ice Thursday players from the Canadian Adam won two Stanley Cups had ever suited up against roster that finished a with the Colorado Avalanche one another on this stage, disappointing sixth at last and also captured gold at the there’s plenty of familiarity at year’s under-20 event on 2002 Olympics, gave Canada lower age groups, including at home soil, the 18-year-old its first lead at 13:03 on another the under-18 worlds and the annual Hlinka Gretzky Cup batted down an aerial pass man advantage.

by American defenceman “We just tried to keep summer showcase.

One of the players K’Andre Miller before it simple and get pucks to the moving in alone and deking net,” said Lafreniere, who with zero familiarity is the to the forehand on Spencer leads the Canadian Hockey undrafted Daws, who came Knight.

League with 70 points in out of nowhere with a banner

“I got lucky to knock 32 games this season. “That start to the his junior season it down,” said Lafreniere, who worked out pretty good. Our to grab the starting job despite grabbed the crest on his jersey power play was good. We’ve having never played for in celebration. “I just tried to got to keep working, keep Canada before Thursday.

“A crazy first get it to the net. I was lucky getting better.” enough to put it in.”

Pinto appeared to international game for me,” score the Americans’ third Daws said. “It was special.”

Richard Commey lost the fight to Teofimo Lopez

Teofimo Lopez came in the favorite as a challenger tonight, and he showed why, as he stopped Richard Commey in the second round to win the IBF lightweight title at Madison Square Garden.

The 22-year-old Lopez (15-0, 12 KO) absolutely drilled Commey (29-3, 26 KO) with a right hand as both throw their rights at the same time, Lopez’ getting home before Commey’s could connect.

Commey went down, but the 32-year-old veteran from Ghana got up and tried to fight on.

Lopez, smelling his chance, went for the finish, and as he battered Commey against the ropes, he gave referee David Fields no choice but to step in at 1:13 of round two, ending the highly-anticipated bout.

“I’m at a loss for words, but like the great KG said, ‘Anything is possible!’” Lopez said after the fight. “That’s a bad guy, that’s a bad man right there.

Any shot (from him) could’ve done the same thing. It was gonna be an explosive night.”

A unification with top lightweight star Vasiliy Lomachenko was brought up, as expected.

Lomachenko was in attendance at the Garden and would step in to take a photo with Lopez after the mics were put away, promoter Bob Arum standing between them.

It looks like the fight will happen, but Lopez didn’t make a particular callout this time.

“You guys know who I want,” he said, referring to Lomacheno without naming him. “2020, it’ll be going down, but as of right now, I’m gonna finish the year enjoying life.

I’m more than an athlete. That goes for every athlete out there.”

“Now he’s a world champion. Welcome to my club. See you in April,” Lomachenko said in a post-fight interview with Bernardo Osuna.

Lopez also repeated something from his past. Just about a year ago after Oklahoma’s Kyler Murray won the Heisman Trophy, Lopez knocked out Mason Menard at the MSG Theater and put Murray’s jersey on. This year, hours after LSU’s Joe Burrow took the Heisman, Lopez knocked out Richard Commey and donned Burrow’s jersey in the ring.

Source: badlefthook.com

Top FIFA agent Bernard Collignon arrives in Ghana to scout players Top French football agent Bernard Collignon has arrived in the country to scout players.

According to his West African rep, Daniel Boifio Jr. Collignon will spend a day looking at young players in a programme dubbed “THE DREAM” which will be held at the Valley View University on December 29.

This initiative by the top FIFA agent is to give the many young Ghanaian footballers the chance of landing top deals abroad.

With access to a wide array of clubs, he is creating opportunities for young players to showcase their talent and fulfil his vision of seeing these young

Bernard Coolingnon with West African rep, Daniel Boifio Jr.

footballers play for some of the biggest clubs in the world.

The scouting project powered

by DBJ Empire and Pour Sports Management will take place at the Valley View University Park on Sunday, December 29, 2019. myjoyonline.com

The Ghanaian News December 2019 69

EAST LEGON Executive 2 Bedroom/2Bath, Kitchen/Dining, Living Room, Air Condition. Excellent location close to Accra Mall, A&C Mall, Aiport, Police Station, Private security.

Rent: $900/mo. -1-2 year advance $1,200/mo- 3 mos.Advance $1,500/mo - month-to-month $ 525/week $95/day BUY as CONDO: $195,000 BUY ALL 4 Units: only $780,000 CONTACT: Esther- 024-161-8182 Dr. K. Danso (US)1-925-961-7554

6328

70

The Ghanaian News December 2019

416-844-9161 / 416-916-3700

The Ghanaian News December 2019 71

14th Annual Christmas Community Dinner held by Impact Lives Church

By Jonathan Baah Annobil, Toronto

On Saturday, December 7, 2019 the Impact Lives Church hosted its 14th annual Christmas community dinner at the Church Sanctuary 1274 Martin Grove Rd. Etobicoke. The dinner was held by the church to demonstrate and express the love of Christ in a practical way to the

community. The church really impacted the lives of approximately 250 people to the dinner from across the Greater Toronto Area and surrounding neighborhood The guests at the dinner were from different backgrounds across the globe. Ministers

Bishop Tacky with attendee giving his testimony

Kelly Ann and Araba Badoe, the MCs set the ball rolling by inviting Minister Janet Brakohiapa for the opening prayer followed by the Ice Breaker game to enable the attendees get to know each other.

The Impact Worshippers then sang praises songs followed by serving of sumptuous dinner.

Bishop Bob Tacky, the Presiding Bishop gave a short exhortation on the love of god taken from 1 John 3:18. He stated that love has been demonstrated by ILC in deed with the community dinner. He ended that our Lord Jesus Christ is the reason for the season and that for this kind of demonstration of oneness, we should give thanks to God for bringing us all together under one roof.

Special guest of honour was Hon Kirsty Duncan, MP Etobicoke North and Deputy House Leader

Bishop Bob Tacky

of the Government, who thanked the church for their impact on the community with their contributions to the community for making Etobicke and Canada great. She was joined by Bishop and lady Tacky to sing some carols.

As part of the program, some of the attendees were given the opportunity to testify and they paid glowing testimonies of the love shown to them and others too who have been touched by the Holy Spirit. Gifts were given to all the children as the adults were given a book written by Bishop Tacky.

MP Kirsty Duncan with Bishop & Mrs Tacky singing

From left: Lady Tacky, MP Kirsty Duncan & her Secretary,, Biship Tacky

Bishop Bob Tacky and Lady Tacky

Ministers Kelly Ann and Araba Badoo

MinisterJanet Brakohiapa

Impact worshipers

Cross section of guests at the event

Guests being prayed over

Distribution of Christmas presents to children

Children merry making at the party

Canada

Ghana

Get up to $120 when you send money with CIBC Global Money TransferTM at $0 transfer fee1.

Receive up to $602 on your first transfer.

Plus, get up to an additional $603 cash back on the AC ConversionTM Visa* Prepaid Card that lets you load up to 10 currencies on the go at no fee.

Use Promo Code: GMTSAVINGS Visit: cibc.com/notransferfee or the nearest CIBC banking centre.

1 Transfer up to $15,000 CAD with no additional transfer fee. CIBC foreign exchange rates apply. A CIBC Global Money Transfer transaction counts toward your allowable transaction limit; bank account transaction fees may apply. Must have a CIBC chequing, savings or personal line of credit account to send a CIBC Global Money Transfer. Most transfers are completed by the next business day; some transfers require 2 to 3 business days. 2Open a new CIBC personal bank account [savings, chequing or a personal line of credit] and make a CIBC Global Money Transfer within 60 days after account opening and you will receive $60 CAD in your new account within 20 business days. If you have a CIBC personal bank account [savings, chequing or a personal line of credit]but have not yet tried CIBC Global Money Transfer (“GMT”), request a GMT transfer and you will receive $30 CAD in your CIBC account within 20 business days. Offer ends February 28, 2020. 3Get $10 when you send at least $500 using CIBC Global Money Transfer, 25 CAD when you send at least $1,000, and $60 when you send at least $2,000. Redeem the offer by following the instructions presented to you online. If you don’t have an AC Conversion™ Visa* Prepaid Card you must apply for one and activate it upon completing the CIBC Global Money Transfer in order to get the credit, which will be loaded in Canadian dollars on to your card within 7 business days after you send funds using CIBC GMT. All amounts are in CAD. CIBC foreign exchange rates apply.

One credit per customer. Offer may end at any time without notice. CIBC Cube Design is a trademark of CIBC. Trademark of Visa Int., used under license. AC conversion™ is a trademark of Air Canada; used under license. CIBC and related marks are trademarks of CIBC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. * ® “Visa” is a trademark of Visa Int., used under license.