York Regional Police celebrate Black History Month
The annual celebration of Black History Month (BHM) returned in full force after a three-year hiatus due to COVID pandemic
The York Regional Police (YRP) headquarters in Aurora was the venue of the 2023 celebration of Black Excellence on Saturday February 11, 2023. The atrium of the Police Headquarters was filled to capacity. It was one of the most attended BHM events. The MC, City News anchor Tammie Sutherland was introduced by Staff Sergeant Don Yirenkyi and Ms Camille Warmer. ………..
After the playing of the Canadian
cont’d on pg. 31
Group of YRP Officers
Star Wars, the Movie: Google fights back YEAR IN REVIEW 2022
By NEPMCC, Toronto, ON“Out of the blue”, Google and the tech giants are pushing back against Government initiatives to redress the imbalances created by the global digital empires among national and local communications enterprises.
Google announced,on February 5th, that it would eliminate 12,000 jobs in Canada. It did not say where or when.Meta/Facebook had previously threatened to block access to its platforms.
Their concern? Two pieces of legislation: Bill C-11 and Bill C-18,
the Online Streaming Act, Online News Act, and Digital Charter Implementation Act. The tech giants view both as inimical to their economic interests. They want the government to “back off”.
Canada is not alone in this hightakes poker game. Several countries, including, but not limited to, Australia, France and Italy, have made initiatives or taken measures to mitigate what some among their citizenry view as predatory practices in the field of creativity, advertising and journalism.
January
• Deadline to renew Ontario Health Card extended
• Ontario allowed non-urgent, non-emergent surgeries gradually resume
• National Investment Bank Ghana completed voluntary redundancy exercise.
• “Ghana is not safe from coups currently happening from some West African countries”Col.Festus Aboagye.
• Justice Kofi Barnes of the Ontario Superior Court swears in new leaders of GCAO in Toronto.
• Nana Professor Okogyeaman Dankwa Ameyaw Kokoroko II leads his community to repossess large tract of land from Ghana Cocoa Board.
• Togbi Nyaho Tamakloe VI leads fundraiser in support of Keta Sunset’s Beach Soccer World Clubs Championship campaign in Spain.
cont’d on pg. 7 cont’d on pg. 42
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Korle-Bu Hospital Approves Naming Of Isolation Ward At Rebecca Akufo-Addo
PICU After Late Child Cancer Ambassador
The Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital has granted approval for its isolation ward at Rebecca Akufo-Addo PICU for infectious children to be named after the late Breanna Fosua Addai, a Childhood Cancer Ambassador for Ghana who died on 3rd August 2022 aged nine, at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, after battling with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) for about two years.
A childhood cancer foundation established in her memory, the Breanna Memorial Childhood Cancer Foundation, wrote to the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital to request for the adoption of the ward.
The Executive Director of the Foundation, Mr. Solomon Addai, said the adoption of the ward was to support children on admission financially by helping to pay for some of their laboratory tests and the service charge, among others, which altogether put a lot of financial burden on the parents of children living with cancer.
He said the Foundation will also pay for the maintenance of the ward to ensure the ward remained in good condition.
“When little Breanna was alive, she was mostly admitted to the isolation ward at the Rebecca Akufo-Addo Private Intensive Care Unit and wished that an NGO would be set up in her name and would adopt the ward to support children living with cancer,” Mr. Solomon Addai said.
Mr Addai said through activities to be organized by the NGO, an annual target of GH¢100,000 would be raised to support the
children who are usually transferred from the Oncology Unit of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital to the ward for intensive care. He made a cash donation of GH¢3,000 to support children living with cancer at the Paediatric Oncology Unit as the world commemorates International Childhood Cancer Day. He called on individuals and civil society organsations to help raise funds and support children living with cancer in the country in any ways possible.
Dr Ernestina Schandorf, Oncologist who received the donation on behalf of the Head of Child Health Department at KABTH, Professor Lorna Awo Renner thanked the foundation for the gesture. The late Breanna until her death advocated for a lot of interventions to be carried out for children with cancer in the country. Some of her calls were for the incorporation of childhood cancers into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), which was successfully facilitated by the First Lady, Mrs. Rebecca Akufo-Addo. Breanna also made an appeal to international leaders to intervene for a ceasefire during the war between Russia and Ukraine, to help save the lives of children with cancer in Ukraine. Her plea was considered as more than 20 Ukrainian children with cancer were airlifted to the United Kingdom to undergo lifesaving cancer treatment on the National Health Service (NHS). Peacefmonline.com/Ghana
KEEPING YOU IN TOUCH WITH NEWS FROM HOME AND LOCAL COMMUNITY ISSUES
EDITORIAL
Make BLACK HISTORY MONTH Meaningful
Mayor John Tory announces his resignation after an affair with a staffer
By Jonathan Baah Annobil, Toronto, ON AyikuPublisher / Editor Emmanuel
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The Month of February, ironically the shortest month of the year, is celebrated in Canada as Black History Month. The month and its celebrations provide an opportunity for Canadians to share and learn about the experiences, contributions and achievements of peoples of African ancestry. It was initiated in Canada by the Ontario Black History Society, which was founded in 1978. Before Black History Month was introduced in Canada, there was a movement to recognize North Americans of African descent. In 1926, African American historian, Carter G. Woodson conceived of the idea to declare Negro History Week (which became Black History Month) to coincide with the birth month of President Abraham Lincoln and abolitionist and former enslaved person, Frederick Douglass. Later, sleeping car porters brought the idea north across the border into Canada.
The first celebration of February as Black History Month in Canada was organized at Toronto’s African Canadian “Shaw Street” British Methodist Episcopal Church in 1950 by Stanley G. Grizzle. Later, the founders of the Ontario Black History Society, including Dr. Daniel G. Hill and Wilson O. Brooks, presented a petition to the City of Toronto to have February formally proclaimed as Black History Month. In 1979, the first-ever Canadian proclamation was issued by Toronto. In 1993, the Ontario Black History Society successfully filed a petition in Ontario to proclaim February as Black History Month. Finally,former Member of Parliament for Etobicoke-Lakeshore, and then Parliamentary Secretary, Hon. Dr. Jean Augustine, introduced a Motion in the House of Commons in Ottawa which was unanimously on December 5, 1995. The first national declaration of Black History Month in Canada went into effect in February 1996.
We have come a long way since then. Every year in February, celebrations, big and small, take place across the Black Communities in Canada, some of which are attended, for the symbolism of it, by politicians and some government officials when it suits them. The noble idea of these celebrations was mooted to provide an opportunity for Canadians to share and learn about the experiences, contributions and achievements of peoples of African ancestry. Sadly, the history of the celebrations to date, across Canada, have been limited to efforts and involvements, some on very limited scale, to the members of the Black communities across Canada. There have been limited involvement in the celebrations by the power brokers, the rich and powerful as well as the mainstream citizenry in Canada. The only Province where politicians and political leadership have been actively participating in the Black History Month Celebrations has been the Province of Ontario. We thank them for their efforts and genuine interest in these celebrations.
We however call on the leaders of the Black communities in Canada to double their efforts in organizing events and activities to involve mainstream Canadians and power brokers in the country in these celebrations if its noble objectives of providing an opportunity for Canadians to share and learn about the experiences, contributions and achievements of peoples of African ancestry are to be achieved. The celebrations should not be limited only to the Black communities. This is the time we need to showcase the contributions of Canadians of African ancestry to the nation-building efforts in Canada. We have heroes, past, present and living whose achievements and contributions to the Canadian Mosaic should be highlighted and showcased. That way, all Canadians will learn and embrace this noble idea and participate in the celebrations of Black History in Canada as a noble event worth celebrating.
Toronto Mayor John Tory, 68 announced on February 10, 2023 that he was resigning as mayor of Toronto due to a consensual affair with a staffer. He stated that it was a “judgment error” and that he was sorry. He apologized to Barbara his wife of 40 years, family and Torontonians. He has served as the 65th mayor since 2014. He was serving his term as mayor elected in last October 2022 and this term was supposed to be his last when this scandal broke. He was the leader of the official opposition in Ontario (Conservatives) from 2005
to 2007. He has 4 children and 6 grandchildren. He is a lawyer by profession and has been a Rogers Cable Executive before.
Hazel McCallion, passes away at the age of 101
By Jonathan Baah Annobil, Toronto, ONHazel McCallion, CM, OOnt, the longtime mayor of Mississauga, Ontario known affectionately as Hurricane Haze, has died at the age of 101. She was the 5th mayor of Mississauga from 1978 to 2014 36 years in total.
She was born Hazel Journeaux on February 14, 1921 in Port Daniel, Quebec, in the Gaspe Peninsula. She was the youngest of 5 children. She moved to Toronto in her 20s where she met her husband Sam McCallion. Her husband passed away in 1997. She is survived by 3 children and a granddaughter.
She died of pancreatic cancer on Sunday, 29th January a few days to her 102 years peacefully at her home. She was laid in state at Mississauga City Hall for 2 days (Feb 13-14) and the funeral was at the paramount Fine Foods Centre on Tuesday, 14th February, 2023. Some of the VIPs in attendance at the funeral were PM Justin Trudeau, Former PM Jean Chretien, Premier Doug Ford, Lt. Gov Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie, and Mayor John Tory. Flags were flown at half-
mast across Ontario on the day of the funeral.
Hazel was a successful candidate in 12 municipal elections. She retired from office at the age of 96 years. In 2016, she began a three-year term as the first chancellor of Sheridan College, a step in its bid to become a university and a special advisor at the University of Toronto Mississauga.
Because of her accomplishments, a senior public school, university learning centre, college campus, hospital wing and a public library all bear her name in Mississauga.
Star Wars, the Movie: Google fights back
cont’d from pg. 1
That may sound excessive to some. It is not for us to moralize, only to point out that the matters are sufficiently grievous that governments bemoan the techniques of moving income offshore to avoid paying taxes, sucking the advertising dollars out of the country and outsourcing the design work.
These are also the life blood of Journalism and critical analysis for public debate.
Canada is in the process of adopting the Australian model as a solution: essentially compelling the Tech Giants to negotiate with qualified journalism enterprises to remunerate them with 25% of their editorial costs – to be determined according to set criteria. It is a slow process that may lead to Government decision, via its agency, the CRTC, at the end of nine (9) months.
Trudeau imposes his expensive carbon tax on the people of New Brunswick
Jake Stewart, Conservative Shadow Minister for Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, released the following statement on New Brunswick being forced to adopt Justin Trudeau’s expensive carbon tax:
“After 8 years of Justin Trudeau, Atlantic Canadians are hurting more than ever before. Liberals are out of touch, and Canadians are out of money. Justin Trudeau’s inflationary taxes have driven up the cost of living, and people can’t afford to buy groceries or pay their rent. Inflation is the highest it’s been in generations, 40% of Atlantic Canadians experience energy poverty, and Trudeau’s response is to make life even more expensive for everyone.
“Once again, Justin Trudeau has imposed his Ottawa knows best approach, allowing ‘no room for negotiation’ and imposed his carbon
tax on the hard-working people of New Brunswick. With Justin Trudeau, it’s always his way or else. Now, he has told the people of New Brunswick they will have to face surging costs on gasoline and heating thanks to his unnecessary and painful tax.
“All Atlantic provinces, including the Liberal government in Newfoundland & Labrador, put forward their own plans when faced with Trudeau’s painful carbon tax. They have been rejected by Trudeau’s know-it-all government in Ottawa. They know the carbon tax is not an environment plan, but a costly tax plan that is especially damaging to families in Atlantic Canada.
“Canadians are hurting, but Trudeau refuses to listen. Conservatives will keep the heat on, and take the tax off.”
DDEP: Gov’t grants preferential exemptions to some bondholders - Martin Kpebu alleges | Threatens legal action
One of the conveners of the Individual Bondholders Forum, Mr Martin Kpebu, is raising some red flags about the rationale for the granting of preferential exemptions to some individual bondholders as part of the implementation of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) announced by the Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, to restructure the country’s debt stock.
According to Mr Kpebu, some individual bondholders were granted preferential exemptions leading to the closing date for the DDEP.
“What is the rationale for the preferential exemptions and who were the beneficiaries?” he queried.
He called on the finance minister and his technical team members to come clean on granting preferential exemptions to some bondholders.
Mr Martin Kpebu raised this red flag in an interview on the 6 a.m. news on Accra-based Joy FM on Thursday, February 16, 2023.
The convener who is also a legal practitioner hinted at legal action if the government fails to assign tangible reasons for the alleged preferential exemptions.
Ken Ofori-Atta, Minister of Finance
“Why were these preferential exemptions not made available to all the individual bondholders,” he wondered.
In the same direction, Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu Constituency in the Volta Region, Samuel Okudjeto –Ablakwa, has revealed that some individual bondholders were granted the opportunity to convert their bonds into treasury bills before the end of the programme.
He said the minister will be compelled to provide the names of these beneficiaries on the floor of Parliament today Classfmonline.com/cecil Mensah
The French have so far opted for commercial redress in European - $500 million in “unpaid taxes”. The Italians have initiated a model in Italy, and for the European Parliament, that calls for up to 70% reimbursement for news production and reproduction, over a ninety-day (90 day) period.
Google, Meta/Facebook etc. may argue for a hands-off approach but they are not entrusted with the need to safeguard or promote the public’s wellbeing. Governments are.
Legislation like Bill C-18 serves the needs of Canadians and bolsters government policy objectives associated with nation-building and with strengthening the fundamentals through which we share common values or build material and political goals that benefit all.
Generally, good governments try to expand opportunities associated with positive outcomes in this regard and to mitigate the challenges society meets,as it transforms from one era of cultural communications to the next.
The rapid growth and expansion of digital technologies is one such challenge. It has become a matter of public concern virtually everywhere around the globe.
The Minister for Canadian Heritage and his colleague, the Minister
forInnovation, Science and Industry agree. In a nine-page letter to the [new] Chair of the CRTC, dated Feb. 3, they note that these challenges can “undermine our culture, entrench inequality and unfairness in society and jeopardize democracy”.
They are talking about communications, freedom of speech, transparency, economic and political viability. More particularly, they express apprehension that the digital monoliths may be arrogating the creative and financial resources that small and medium sized communications enterprises like the members of the NEPMCC rely on for survival.
It is not a small issue. Left unchecked, Giant Tech may spell the end of multilingual, multiethnic Press and Media. The ethnocultural, multilingual communities (as well as geographical communities) to which NEPMCC members reach out with news and analysis appropriate to their integration process may face a short lifespan.
Yet, as per the last census in 2021, that segment of the population which self identifies as neither Aboriginal/First Nations, Anglo or French comprisesjust under 25% of the total population. It is the only segment growing, numerically.
Politically, they are indispensable to the country’s growth and development.
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Ghana: Vice President (VP) Bawumia Cuts Sod and Offers Support for the Construction of Liberty Assemblies of God Church Hospital
The Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has on Sunday February 12, 2023, cut sod for the construction of the Liberty Assemblies of God Hospital in Akweteyman, Accra.
The construction of the 50bed community hospital is in commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the Liberty Assemblies of God Church.
Vice President Bawumia, who has provided financial support, as well as 500 bags of cement to the church, towards the start of construction, congratulated the congregation on its 50th anniversary, and also expressed delight at joining them for the groundbreaking ceremony, which he described as “a manifestation of the goodness of God.”
“It is really a pleasure and a privilege to be here,” Dr. Bawumia said. “Liberty Assemblies of God Church is 50 years this year and I was very privileged to be with you on that day when we celebrated the 50th Anniversary. And the theme was: ‘declaring the goodness of God”
“This (sod cutting) is a manifestation of that theme. We are here today because we are seeing the goodness of God.”
“The church, to thank God for 50 years, has decided to construct a 50bed hospital for the community of Akweteyman.”
Dr. Bawumia, having provided the Church his support, also reiterated his commitment towards the project.
“I am so happy and so honoured to be part of it and I want to assure Reverend
Family, Friends, Community
that I will be keeping a close eye and participating in the construction of this beautiful edifice,” he said.
“We want to see the completion in two years by the grace of God so I am one of you as we are going through this project, and we will see, by the grace of God, to its completion.”
“I just want to thank all of you, Reverend in particular for making me a part and an honorary member of Liberty, of which I’m very proud. May God bless this building and may God bless all the people who are going to be working,”
CHURCH THANKS DR. BAWUMIA FOR SUPPORT
The Church expressed gratitude to the Vice President for his kind gesture and commitment towards the execution of the project.
“First of all, we wish to thank you for honouring our invitation to attend our 50th Anniversary in this local church. We also appreciate the fact that you made a giant contribution into the project we intended to undertake,” said the Head Pastor.
“Mr. Vice President, thereafter, your 500 bags of cement was received and we are grateful again. At the last visit to your home when we made you aware the project was going to begin, you duly requested that you’ll love to be part of the sod cutting. I was personally elated to hear that and I am happy to know that you have a keen interest in the project we are undertaking. We appreciate this,” the Head Pastor added.
The Presidency, Republic of Ghana
Bawumia, having provided the Church his support, also reiterated his commitment towards the project
Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) to Earn Revenue from Export of Energy for the First Time since 1983
The earnings from the export of power are very important to the company and would support operations even when ECG, NEDCo and the mines are late in settling their debts
The Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) has announced that it is set to earn revenue for the first time since 1983, thanks to the export of power to neighbouring countries such as Togo, Benin, Cote d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso.
This has come as a relief to the company, which has been struggling with late payments from its clients, including the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo), and the mining industry.
The Chief Executive of GRIDCo’s, Ing. Ebenezer Essienyi mentioned
that the earnings from the export of power are very important to the company and would support operations even when ECG, NEDCo and the mines are late in settling their debts.
“For the first time since 1983, the line between Prestea and Cote d’Ivoire was used for friendly commercial business. Money wasn’t exchanging hands but this time our brothers from CI Energies has come for us to sign an agreement that will enable us to earn significant revenue,” he said.
In recent years, GRIDCo has seen an increase in the demand for electricity from its neighbouring countries, leading to a substantial increase in its revenue. This development is expected to support the company strengthen its operations and ensure a more stable power grid for Ghana.
The revenue from the export of power is a welcome development for GRIDCo, which has not seen any significant increase in revenue since 1983. This is expected to have a positive impact on the power sector in Ghana, as GRIDCo would have more resources to
invest in improving its transmission infrastructure and ensuring a reliable and stable supply of electricity.
GRIDCo is the national power transmitter in Ghana, responsible for transmitting electricity from wholesale suppliers to bulk consumers. The company also plays an important role in the Wholesale Electricity Market, by undertaking economic dispatch and maintaining the National Interconnected Transmission System.
SOURCE
Ministry of Information, Ghana
Curbing Rising Violence and Vandalism in our Schools
By Joe Kingsley Eyiah, OCT, Brookview Middle School, Toronto-CanadaThe recent news reports from Toronto and Ghana about rising incidents of violence and student vandalism in our schools are very disturbing. In Toronto, the school year has been marred with many occurrences of student violence which have brought concern to teachers in the city’s high schools where most of the violence have been reported. According to the teachers’ federations in Ontario, “Although the 2022-2023 school year has been less disrupted than the last few years, ETFO members are reporting that violence in schools has returned to, or is exceeding, prepandemic levels.”
There have been many stabbing and shooting incidents in some Secondary Schools as well as Middle Schools in the metropolitan area of Toronto the latest being shooting at the Weston Collegiate.
Also, in Ghana, we hear of vandalism
Sports
(destruction of school properties) by students in some of the country’s Senior High Schools. For example, it is recently reported in the news that, “ More than 40 students of Krobea Asante Technical and Vocational School at Asokore in the Ashanti Region have been arrested for causing damage to school property.
“The students went on rampage Sunday, January 22, protesting the poor results of their predecessors in their final examination. About four government vehicles and two others owned by the teachers were destroyed. The school’s store was also invaded by the students, resulting in the destruction of food items and other supplies.”
The term school vandalism refers to willful or malicious damage to school grounds and buildings or furnishings and equipment. Specific examples include glass breakage, graffiti, and general property destruction
According to education experts, preventing school vandalism is a complex problem since vandalism results from different causes. We therefore need to curb vandalism in our schools from multifaceted approaches. It has been suggested that the best way to prevent property damage in schools is to find out how and why it
is occurring and develop a strategy tailored to the situation.
To combat this problem, school officials, students and concerned parents must employ preventive and direct measures. It is been suggested that private security should be hired to monitor the school after-hours The presence of a guard or security officer can act as a deterrent to vandals who target the school.
We need to create a school wide program that teaches students to value the school environment and respect it. The dire consequences of vandalism including legal prosecution must be taught to students.
Above all, governments must improve the resources for learning at our schools in order to attract students to learning rather than to destruction of school properties as a result of poor and inadequate learning facilities.
Minister launches Ghana Professional Boxing League; calls for strengthening of security at boxing centres
Minister for Youth and Sports Mustapha Ussif has launched the second season of the Ghana Professional Boxing League.
The launch happened yesterday, Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at the Mudor Conference Room.
The Ghana Professional Boxing League is set to commence on Saturday, March, 11, 2023, at the Bukom Boxing Arena.
The maiden edition of the Ghana Professional Boxing League began last year, with the hope of, not just identifying talent for the sport, but also reviving the sport which is seemingly losing its relevance.
Speaking at the launch of the second season of the Ghana Professional Boxing League, Mr Ussif stated that it was important to continue building on the success chalked by the first season of the competition which generated a lot of interest from a lot of boxing fanatics.
“We are here today to actualise our vision of sustaining what we started last year,” he said.
The minister was, however, concerned about security issues that marred boxing fights in season one, calling on stakeholders to prioritise security at the Bukom Boxing Arena in order to forestall any such occurrences.
“In as much as we all commend the Ghana Boxing Authority, one critical issue raised by many stakeholders in boxing is the poor security network at the Bukom Boxing Arena during the fights.
“I [would] like to urge, especially, the promoters, to reconsider their security measures to help curb the unfortunate incident recorded last season,” Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif said.
Season one of the Ghana Professional Boxing League generated massive attention, and the Minister was clear in his conviction that the revival of the league, which had been on break for some time now, has changed the public perception about boxing, making it “one of the vibrant sports [disciplines] in Ghana currently.”
“As the Minister for Youth and Sports, I can attest to the fact that the revival of the professional boxing league in Ghana, after almost [a] 16 year break, which also introduced juvenile, and amateur boxing fights, undoubtedly shaped the public thought on Ghana boxing as one of the vibrant sports in the country, currently,” Mr Ussif noted.
D.K Poison, Azumah Nelson, and Isaac Dogboe, who is in contention for a second world title on April 1, and others are boxing greats in Ghana, and with the Ghana Professional Boxing League in place now, a lot of boxers are expected be produced to keep up with the legacies of these Ghanaian title-wielding boxers.
Mr Mustapha Ussif was optimistic season two of the Ghana Professional Boxing League would live up to the billing, and bring a lot of excitement to boxing enthusiasts as season one did. The presentation of awards to the best boxer in season one, still excites the minister.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I still feel the excitement of the first night of season one last year, and the official presentation of Renault cars to the best boxer Charles Tetteh of the Panix Boxing Gym,” the minister said.
He acknowledged the role played by trainers of the various boxers that participated in season one, and was hopeful that, with their hard work: “Ghana can produce world champions in no time.”
“It is important to acknowledge the role played by trainers of our boxers, who produce credible and durable boxers, who fought for irresistible excitement, and hope for Ghana to produce world champions in no time,” Mustapha Ussif added.
“The moment we are all waiting for is here, and at this official launch of Ghana Professional Boxing League, on behalf of the good people of Ghana, I [would] like to declare the Ghana Professional Boxing League, season 2, duly launched,” he concluded.
Ghana’s Eighth Parliament.. Has it delivered?
By Edmund Agbeko, Toronto, ONSince the beginning of the Fourth Republic in 1992, Ghana’s Parliament has been dominated by governing party members. In 2020, that changed when – for the first time in the country’s history – the two major political parties obtained an equal number of seats, with one seat going to an independent candidate. In this split Parliament, neither the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) nor the opposition National Democratic Congress had a majority. The independent candidate (who had hitherto occupied the same seat on behalf of the NPP) pledged to do business with his former party, giving the ruling party a narrow majority.
Many Ghanaians hoped the unprecedented balance would empower Parliament to check the executive’s excessive control and assert its authority on citizens’ behalf, preventing questionable appointments, agreements and laws. It was generally expected that Parliament wouldn’t be a mere rubber stamp of executive policies like before, especially after the Speaker was elected from the main opposition party – another first for Ghana.
Moreover, most House committees, including the Appointments and Business committees, were populated by equal numbers from the majority and minority parties. The minorities brandished these wins as proof of their ability to ensure accountability, assuring Ghanaians that the governing party wouldn’t have its way at the plenary or committee levels.
Ghanaians hoped the unprecedented balance would allow Parliament to check the executive’s excessive control. After two years of the split Parliament, though, these expectations don’t appear to have been met. There have been glimpses of Parliament standing its ground on executive oversight. At times, it has rejected loan requests for various reasons, including lack of accountability, unsustainable debt levels and lack of a quorum.
When colleague writer, Enoch Randy Aikins, pens his thoughts and says a good example was the rejection of a €116million budget for the redevelopment of the Accra International Conference Centre, among others, during the 2023 budget adoption process; you definitely know hes spot on!
But despite these glimmers of hope, Parliament has often failed to withstand the executive’s power over national decisions, often to the detriment of Ghanaians’ welfare. The first failure occurred during the vetting of Ministers for the second term (2021-24) of the incumbent government. Minority members on the Vetting Committee rejected three ministerial nominees – who they said had underperformed in their first term –and deferred five others’ approval until they reappeared before the committee for further questioning. Ultimately, both the rejected and deferred nominees
were approved at the plenary after some minority Members of Parliament (MPs) voted to support them.
The second major failure involved the introduction of the electronic transaction levy (E-levy) in the 2022 budget. The levy proposed a 1.75 per cent tax on electronic transactions above GH¢100. Over 75 per cent of Ghanaians disapproved of the tariff. The Minority in Parliament, with the overwhelming support of civil society and the general public, opposed the levy and assured Ghanaians it wouldn’t be passed.
The average MP in Ghana misses one out of every four sittings. As a result, for the first time in the Fourth Republic, the 2022 budget was initially rejected by Parliament. However, the majority subsequently overturned the rejection and approved the budget, along with the unpopular E-levy. After a minority walk-out, the levy was reduced to 1.5% (although it has now been revised to 1%). The decision to walk out was widely criticised by the public, who hoped the minority would use its proportionate clout to fight to the end.
Another disappointment has been Parliament’s failure to deal with absenteeism – a bane of the country’s multiparty democracy. Most members are either habitually absent or arrive late, with the average MP missing one out of every four sittings. Some skip as many as three out of four.
An attempt to remove those who miss more than the constitutionally mandated 15 parliamentary sittings without permission has come to nothing. Some MPs invoked Parliament’s Standing Orders to declare absentee seats vacant. The move was referred to the Privileges Committee, after which the Speaker ruled that the committee report be adopted and debated by plenary for a decision. To date, though, no decision has been taken. Furthermore, Parliament’s inability to remove the Minister of Finance Ken Ofori-Atta – whom many believe should be sacked for the country’s economic woes – has been seen as a failure. Despite Ghanaians’ calls for the minister to resign or be fired, both he and the president have blatantly ignored these demands. Parliament has failed to monitor the expenditure of public funds to ensure they are correctly used.
Parliament took a bold step when 98
MPs from the ruling party called on the president to sack the minister, or they would boycott all government business. After intervention from their party, however, they backtracked, claiming there was an acceptable roadmap to remove Ofori-Atta. In parallel, minority MPs initiated a censure motion to remove him. The motion was lost after a boycott by majority MPs prevented the attainment of the constitutional two-thirds majority threshold.
Finally, Ghana’s Eighth Parliament has failed to monitor the expenditure of public funds to ensure they are used for their intended purpose. The AuditorGeneral is tasked with auditing all public accounts and reporting to Parliament within six months after the financial year ends, drawing attention to irregularities.
The Auditor-General’s 2021 report flagged a total of GH¢17.4 billion
(about US$3 billion) in financial irregularities. Parliament is expected to act on these findings through the Public Accounts Committee and work with the Auditor-General to retrieve the money. It must call relevant authorities to account, order misappropriated money to be repaid, and withhold further allocations to institutions that can’t reasonably explain discrepancies. Instead, infractions continue to be committed with minimal repercussions.
Clearly Parliament hasn’t lived up to expectations – failing to deliver at moments when keeping the executive in check has mattered most. The minority, in particular, seems to be wasting a sterling opportunity to exploit its proportional clout in the House to call the ruling party to book. The Eighth Parliament must work harder to win the confidence and trust of Ghanaians in the two years that remain.
Lonely Planet Names Ghana As Top Destination For Connecting In 2023
Renowned International Guidebook company, Lonely Planet, has named Ghana as one of the best places to visit and connect in 2023 in its 18th annual Best in Travel list.
The 2023 edition of the list follows a slightly different format than it has been in the past years. Drawing on expert local perspectives from the heart of each destination, the Best in Travel report features cities, countries and regions to aid travelers planning their next trip.
The research is split up into five sections — Eat, Journey, Unwind, Connect and Learn — with each place chosen for its topicality, unique experiences, ‘wow factor, and ongoing commitment to sustainability, community and diversity. Ghana made the list as one of the best countries to visit and connect in the world.
In a statement publish by Lonely Planet, indicated that the ‘Year of Return,’ one of government initiative launch in 2019, contributed to Ghana’s appearance on the list.
“As the world opened up after long Covid restrictions, many travelers felt the urge to connect or reconnect with others. One way to do that is by looking into our own backyards. People with African heritage may want to head to Accra, Ghana, for their own sense of connection. The country, also on the list, observed a Year of Return in 2019, which brought people from all over the diaspora to Ghana for fellowship and community. Just because the year passed doesn’t mean that the sense of connection has gone: Ghana wants to hit a goal of eight million tourists per year”. The statement reads. Commenting on the list, CEO of Ghana Tourism Authority, Akwasi Agyeman, expressed excitement on Ghana being named as one of the best
countries to visit and connect in 2023.
According to him, the ‘Year of Return and ‘Beyond the Return’ were part of government effort to revive Ghana’s engagement with the African diaspora and the world at large. He noted that, it did not only increase number of visits to the country but also gain interest from the media, celebrities and investors, that helped position Ghana an attractive investment destination for the diaspora.
“It is a great honour to see how, over the years, Ghana continues to receive accolades for our dedication to promote ‘Year of Return and ‘Beyond the Return’. Indeed, we are immensely proud of the fact that Ghana has been named as one of the best places to visit and connect by Lonely Planet. I also recognize that we could not have come this far without the support of government and all stakeholders. Heading to December, we have started seeing the numbers coming in and we are very positive that Ghana will host the world once again,” he said.
Last week, The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture officially unveiled the schedule of events for the 2022 ‘December in GH’ campaign.
December in GH is the country’s biggest celebration of all things, Cultural, Entertainment, Adventure, Nightlife, Fashion, Gastronomy, Tours and Community service. Since 2019, the ‘December in GH’ event schedule is one that many travelers look forward to when planning their activities for their holiday trip to Ghana.
Peacefmonline.com/Ghana
“WHO DO YOU TRUST?”
By: Stephen Armah Quaye.circumstances. A trustworthy friend will walk the rugged road of life with you, with all its ups and downs. And not betrayed you as a friend.
You can trust a true friend with your deepest secrets. A true friend, genuine in his or her own right, accepts you as you are, without trying to modify you.
A trustworthy friend is both uncritical and unafraid to intervene when needed, even if it means confronting you with your inconsistencies.
‘Closer
eye to the skies’:
Researcher sees uptick in sightings of UFOs
Canada’s preeminent ufologist has seen an uptick in reported sightings of unidentified flying objects in recent days suggesting more Canadians are turning their eyes to the sky after U.S. fighter jets shot down three separate objects over the weekend.
see an increase in reports when events like this happen but cautions it doesn’t mean there is an increase in the number of flying objects, only that more people are paying attention.
If you are the person who has been betrayed—whether it’s by an affair, losing savings to your spouse’s gambling, or learning that your spouse spoke harshly about you behind your back—rebuilding trust can be staggeringly difficult. But it can also bring several rewards.
Although a complex subject it is my understanding that Betrayal Trauma can be summed up as occurring when the people or institutions we rely on violate us.
While most betrayal is caused by a problem in the marriage, the betrayed person can use the crisis of betrayal to better understand his or her partner, and this understanding can help reduce the probability that the traumatic behavior will occur again—a vital step toward rebuilding trust.
A friend is caught up in the middle of a horrendous “wife dumps him for inlaw” best friend” saga. Although barely eleven years now and still suffering, he could perceive that although deeply upset that his relationship, on rocks, now apparently ship wrecked; the real pain he feels is not with the loss of his wife- but with the deception of him.
The in-law was close to him and had really betrayed him.
Being betrayed is, arguably, the worst part of a relationship. The story of Jesus is in a way the story of betrayal. The man who betrayed Jesus was of course Judas [and to a lesser extent Peter] and yet there is no record in the gospels that Judas was any less involved with Jesus or his ministry than any of the others, so we can see Jesus experienced deep betrayal by an intimate person.
The legacy for most people who have experienced deep betrayal is that they suffer their current relationships which can often be characterized by fear and sabotage. Betrayed people can often feel they do not want to risk another heartache and disappointment and are suspicious of relationships and intimacy. Inevitably as various researches have revealed it leaves betrayed persons leading an isolated life where closeness is avoided.
Most friendships will be temporary or seasonal. Only in rare instances will friendships last a lifetime. The friendships that matter the most are the deepest ones, whether they are lifelong or somehow curtailed by life
A friend who is trustworthy and true will remain available to you at any time or in any place. A choice friend, in-law is worth going to war for. You cannot find another one easily.
For many people, their very best friend is their spouse. Being married to your best friend is wonderful when you are trying to stand against the powers of darkness.
A husband and wife who are not only united in their commitment to marriage and to the Lord, but who are the closest of friends, can make the devil’s job very difficult indeed. Being united in marriage and in trust means you are double troubled to the enemy.
In fact, I would go so far as to say that the genuine Christian family is the single most powerful institution on the face of earth for opposing the kingdom of darkness. Getting married is an act of spiritual warfare. Getting married declares war on sexual sin and the temptations of lust.
Marriage is much more than a marriage license on a piece of paper. It is a spiritual union. Two are much more powerful than one. Two plus God is the strongest of all.
“Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken” Eccles. 4:12.
Naturally, the devil attacks close friendships and marriages with vehemence. He hates them. He introduces unfaithfulness, betrayal, disagreement, violence and more. He also inspires lawmakers to pass laws that allow watered down and sinful unions and ungodly behaviors.
These devilish strategies cause havoc but they do not bring down the kingdom of God. God’s love is stronger still and he equips the saints with alliances that the enemy cannot replicate. In the words of Martin Luther:
Though this world, with devilish filled Should threaten to undo us We will not fear, for God hath willed
His truth to triumph through us
Surrounded by friends who are trustworthy and true, you can fight to the finish with passion.
Are you betrayed, pray and meditate to heal from betrayal?
Chris Rutkowski, with Ufology Research in Winnipeg, has been collecting and analyzing Canadian data on unidentified flying objects, or unidentified aerial phenomena as it’s more recently been referred to as, for nearly 35 years.
Following the U.S. and Canadian governments’ “unprecedented” decision to take action against the objects, Rutkowski has received a number of sighting descriptions, including one on an Ontario highway near Cambridge where someone said they saw a “black rectangle” move across the highway.
“People are keeping a closer eye to the skies and thankfully are reporting them so that we can get some data on what people are seeing,” said Rutkowski.
Reported sightings of unidentified flying object reached an all-time high in Canada in the 2010s but have been on a steady decline since then.
Ufology Research’s latest study released earlier this month suggests there were 768 UFO sightings in the country last year — a slight increase of about six per cent from the previous year. Rutkowski found one person in Quebec reported nearly 40 separate sightings, which accounted for the higher number. The number of reported sightings in Canada last year was the fourth-lowest over the past 20 years.
The study said these numbers likely don’t show the full picture as individuals are reluctant to report sightings out of fear of being ridiculed or concern for their reputation.
But Rutkowski stresses times have changed in the field. While the mere mention of the term UFO used to conjure images of alien invasions, tin hat wearing conspiracists and pop culture extraterrestrial icons Alf and E.T., research around the phenomena has evolved in government and academic circles.
Canadians are in “good company” if they believe they’ve seen a UFO as polls conducted suggest that 10 per cent of people in the country believe they’ve seen an unidentified object in the sky, said Rutkowski.
“When a person reports seeing a UFO, whether you’re a pilot or just an average person on the street, you may be seeing something that is quite significant and potentially of value to researchers,” he added.
Chris Styles said it’s not uncommon to
“Sightings breed sightings,” said the renowned UFO researcher from Halifax.
American fighter jets took down three unidentified objects over the weekend including one over central Yukon. The flurry of close encounters followed what officials said was a Chinese surveillance balloon that floated across the continent two weeks ago and was shot down off the coast of South Carolina.
While it’s not clear where the objects came from or who might have dispatched them, the prevailing theory is that they were “benign,” posing only a threat to passing civilian aircraft, the White House said this week.
Search efforts are underway in a remote stretch of central Yukon to locate the remnants of the object, which chief of Defence Staff Gen. Wayne Eyre said is a “suspected balloon” in a tweet Wednesday.
Government officials on both sides of the border have stated there is no indication the objects were the work of aliens or “extraterrestrial activity.”
Recent data from Google Trends points to peoples’ innate curiosity about interplanetary visitors and the world beyond Earth. On Saturday, UFOs were the third most-searched topic in Canada with more than 100,000 searches.
Rutkowski said every year there are well-documented cases from “good observers” that go unexplained but it would be, “presumptuous to say those are from outer space and extraterrestrials.”
“There probably is life out there somewhere, and somewhere out there they might have developed the ability to travel between the stars...we don’t have any proof of that, but the probability is never zero.”
Ufology Research’s study found in 2022 about eight per cent of all UFO reports were classified as unexplained while 14 per cent were explained — meaning researchers determined the sightings were a known object such as a Chinese Lantern, a photographic defect, satellite or astronomical object. Another 44 per cent matched the description of a conventional object and therefore had a probable explanation, while 34 per cent of the sightings lacked sufficient evidence to make a determination.
Rutkowski did not have concrete numbers on how many were balloons
cont’d on pg. 15
Black Sherif wins Hip Hop Act of the year at the 2023 Soundcity MVP Awards
By Joyceline Natally Cudjoe
Talented Ghanaian rapper, Black Sherif has won Hip Hop Act of the Year at the 2023 Soundcity MVP Awards which was held on Saturday, February 11 at the Eko Convention Center, Lagos, Nigeria.
He beats a stiff competition from South Africa’s Nasty C and AKA, Nigeria’s Blaqbones, Ladipoe, as well as Kenya’s Khaligraph Jones among others to emerge victor with his global smash hit, “Kwaku The Traveller.”
Receiving his award, Black Sherif thanked fans and all those who supported him to chalk that height in his music career.
He also lauded the organisers of the award for providing an enabling platform to recognise his crafts.
The “Fist Sermon” hitmaker promised to work around the clock to give the world fine tunes and urged people across the globe to keep supporting his music.
He was also nominated for Best New Artiste, Best Collaboration, Best Hip hop, Listeners Choice and Viewers Choice Awards of the year.
Soundcity MVP Awards is First presented in 2016 to celebrate outstanding artistic accomplishments across the continent.
The 21-year rapper who received his debut award in this year’s edition released his much-anticipated album titled “The Villain I Never Was” last year, October 2022.
The album went on to receive massive streams and good reviews across various digital streaming platform spectrum.
His unique blend of highlife, afrobeat and rap has
‘Closer eye to the skies’: Researcher sees uptick in sightings of UFOs
cont’d from pg. 14
but estimates roughly three dozen reports would have been due to balloons of one kind or another.
Individuals are able to report sightings directly to the group. Researchers also receive their data from other organizations tracking UFO sightings in Canada and the U.S., government sources such as Transport Canada and the Department of National Defence as well as social media.
In academic circles the notion of studying this phenomena has been taken more seriously after details about the Pentagon’s UFO program were discovered in 2017, said Paul Kingsbury, a professor in the department of geography at Simon Fraser University.
While the U.S. has made co-ordinated efforts to document this issue, there
is a disconnect on the Canadian side, Kingsbury added.
He said it’s important for the Biden administration and Canada to work transparently with the scientific community so that academics can access information and data that will help address the problem of identifying these objects.
“It would allow the public to more fully understand what these objects are, their nature, what is causing them and the consequences of the many reports of these anomalous objects in our skies.”
As Canadians continue to navigate global unrest associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, climate disasters and wars overseas, messaging shrouded in “mixed messages and mystery” can leave people feeling anxious.
“Being transparent, wherever possible, is also important for peoples’ peace of mind,” said Kingsbury. The Canadian Press
garnered him a great fan army while he is termed as energetic when it come to live performances.
IMMIGRATION AND SOCIAL ISSUES
By: James A. Kwaateng, B.A. (Hons), LLB (Hons)
APPLYING FOR A VISITOR VISA TO ENTER CANADA
A person applying for visitor visa must meet certain basic requirements to enter Canada. Among the requirements, the person must be in possession of a valid travel document like a passport; be in good health and have no criminal or immigration-related convictions. The person must also convince an immigration officer that he has tiessuch as a job, home, financial assets or family- that will take him back to his home country and that he will leave Canada at the end of the visit. He should also have enough money for his stay in Canada, the amount depending on how long he will stay and if he will stay in a hotel, or with friends or relatives and also depending on whether or not the applicant has a relative or friend in Canada to support him while in Canada.
Most visitors can stay in Canada for up to 6 months. If your passport was stamped when you entered Canada, you need to leave by the date stamped in your passport. If you received a visitor record, you need to leave Canad by the expiry date listed on the visitor recordIf your passport wasn’t stamped and you used a primary inspection kiosk, you can only stay in Canada for up to six monthsfrom the day you entered the country, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Most travellers need a visa or an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to, or transit through, a Canadian airport. What you need depends on the travel document you are travelling with; the country that issued your travel document; your nationality and how you will travel to Canada. You may be prevented from boarding your flight to Canada if you do not have the proper
documentation such as an eTA or visa.
Visa-exempt countries need an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to board their flight to Canada. They also need an eTA to transit through Canada by air. However, if they are travelling by land or sea, these travellers do not need an eTA to enter Canada. For instance, an American citizen driving from US to Canada or coming to Canada by bus, train, or boat,does not need an eTA..
Travellers from visa-required countries need a visitor visa to visit Canada by any method of travel, be it plane, car, bus, train or boat. They will need a visa even if transiting and will stay in Canada more than 48 hours while transiting and also if they are crossing the border of Canada by bus, car, train or boat. They will need a transit visa if their international flight stops at a Canadian airport on its way to another country and they will be connecting between two international flights at a Canadian airport and will transit through Canada in 48 hours or less, unless they have a valid visitor visa.
Certain categories of people are
exempted from eTA and visa requirements. This list includes, but not limited to, foreign nationals with official Canadian documents; travel and official representatives such as flight crew and diplomats; and foreign nationals in certain categories such as the passengers on a flight that makes an unscheduled stop in Canada.
Workers and students must also meet Canada’s entry requirements. A work permit or study permit is not a visitor permit. If you apply for a study permit or work permit for the first time, you will automatically get a visitor visa when the application is approved. This enables you to enter, leave and re-enter Canada. If you are from a visa-required country, make sure that your visitor visa is still variedif youchoose to leave Canada and re-enter.If you are eligible to work or study without a permit, you are considered a visitor to Canada and you must necessarily meet the entry requirements for travellers from your country of citizenship.
A visitor in Canada may apply for a visitor record to stay longer. This application for an extension of your
stay must be submitted at least 30 days before expiration of your authorized stay in Canada.A visitor record document may also be issued by a border services officer at the port of entry to extend or limit your stay in Canada. If you want to stay in Canada for more than six months, you can tell the officer at the port of entry to give you a visitor record.A visitor visa is stuck in your passport while a visitor record is a document that is issued to you to extend or restrict your stay in Canada.
In view of the ongoing changes to the requirements for visa applications and the increasing complexity of this area of immigration law, it is advisable to contact a professional for clarification whenever necessary to avoid unnecessary delays and refusals.
James A. Kwaateng, is an Immigration Law practitioner who has his offices located at 168A Oakdale Road, Suite 4, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. For a thorough discussion of your immigration and related social and legal issues, you may contact him at telephone number (416) 743-2758 for an appointment
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES
Launches the Womens Courage Business and Networking Group
Endless Possibilities and Hope Development Organization
a grassroots Charitable organization whose Mission is to Empower and Uplift Women. They launched their Business and networking group on January 28th, 2023 at the Holiday Inn Hotel located at 600 Dixon Road. The goal of the group is to bring professionals and business women together under one banner to get to know one another, share ideas and network for maximum effect
The event was attended by women from various sectors and communities and included a 3 course dinner, sharing dreams and talking about the various businesses and professions they are in.
Anna Aidoo the founder and speaker spoke about how far she has come advocating for women, how she sought help on her journey and encouraged the women to not be afraid of their dreams and ask for help in order to live fulfilled lives. The women came from various businesses such as real estate, mortgage agents, beauticians, nurses,
lawyers, philanthropists and much more.
The group will be running workshops on starting and running a business, helping women who want to start a business and to help them with resources to make their hopes and dreams a reality. The group will be meeting on a quarterly basis, for more information and to join please connect with Anna at endlesspossibilities@rogers.com. Also visit the organizations website at http:// www.endlesspossibilitieshope.org to learn more about the organization and the programs they offer.
We look forward to more professionals and business women joining the group!
Anna Aidoo Your Motivational Speaker Be Encouraged, Be Inspired
HONOUR THE LEGACY
HAVE
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Dr. C Odame-Ankrah, Ghanaian-Canadian Scientist in Calgary granted US patent for Photolytic Converter
By Jonathan Baah Annobil, Toronto, ON
The President of the GhanaianCanadian Association of Calgary (GCAC) Dr. Charles OdameAnkrah, a scientist by profession has been granted a US patent for a photolytic converter which detects and breaks down nitrogen dioxide in the air and turns them into a stable gas.
Apart from being the President of GCAC, he also sits on the board of the Calgary African Community Collective. Dr. OdameAnkrah obtained his PhD from the University of Calgary and is an analytical chemist. He is a founding and team member of the Alliance of Ghanaian-Canadian Association. The patent was granted on December 29, 2022 and according to Dr. Odame-Ankrah, it can have positive implications for scientists working to combat global warming. The machine could help scientists fight climate change. According to reports, this is the only time in history
that this has been done right. For over 40 years many attempts have been made to detect the Nitrogen Dioxide more accurately in the air we breathe because it is very toxic to humans, plants and animals but all previous attempts fell short of getting best performance. “Part off lighting climate change is being able to accurately measure all the things that contribute to climate change, and nitrogen dioxide is one of them,” he said.
Dr. Charles Odame-Ankrah stated that his accomplishment can encourage more Blacks and immigrant youth in Alberta to pursue careers in Science Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), a field where Black people are factually underrepresented. He is currently a research manager with Global Analyzer Systems and Adjunct Professor at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana.
Money Matters, Every Dollar Counts! -Filing Your Taxes
By: Eddie Twumasi-Smith, (P.Eng, PMP, CPA, MBA )Greetings to all both near and afar. For some years now, I have been burdened by the rate of change across many nations and within geopolitical space, and across other continents and its impact towards racialized minorities. Out of these changes, there have been some government responses to implement new rules and adapt to increase the economic activities, external climate and improve the standard of living of all citizens. However, it is fair to say that these governmental strategies haven’t been equally advantageous or beneficial to all within the country and elsewhere.
Statistics Canada reports shows that, in 2021, 19.5 percent of Black people living in Canada were living below the poverty line. This is compared to 8.2 percent of White people, and 8.1 percent of Asian people. Now the question that comes to mind is, are these governmental legislations, rules and programs not applied consistently across the ethnic groups? Or are some people able to utilize and effectively optimize or leverage the external drivers or rules to their advantage more than others? I hold the believe that, as the good old book has stated, for lack of knowledge my people perish!
Further into the Bible, Ephesians 5:1516 adds to the above saying, “you live not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil”.
The definition of “evil” in current context will be, the times and seasons are changing and these changes are coming fasters than we may think or are prepared for. So it is about time, we as our community take another looks at how we plan, prepare and perform financially in order to take advantage of government legislations and programs that are available so that our generation and future generations will benefit from it.
Report from Brookings Institute at www.brookings.edu/research suggests that
Black Americans born poor are much less likely to move up the income ladder than those in other racial groups, especially whites. Why? Many factors are at work, including educational inequalities, neighborhood effects, workplace discrimination, parenting, access to credit, rates of incarceration, and so on. But there is always a way that we can leverage the external factors and perform better than others; through wisdom, understanding, seeking knowledge and acting in a way that will benefit us and our families.
This column will be sharing and presenting some of the strategies we can adopt to improve our wealth to build a better future and re-write the current narratives which does not show that the black community is doing better as compared to others. But there is hope
and together with one purpose, we can win this fight and make things better if we collectively think, strategize and act on what is worthy.
In today’s discussion, I would like to present the why we have to file our taxes and why it is important for us to recover some of these taxes that were taken out of our pay checks or other incomes: Some of the reasons why we need to file our taxes are as follows:
• When we dispose of capital property (for example, sold real estate, a principal residence, or shares) or realized a taxable capital gain;
• When we are required to repay all or a portion of any Old Age Security benefits or Employment Insurance benefits received;
• When we have withdrawn amounts under the Lifelong Learning Plan or the Home Buyers’ Plan that have not been repaid;
• When we are required to make Canada Pension Plan contributions, because pensionable employment income and/or selfemployment earnings total more than the basic CPP exemption ($3,500 for 2022);
• When we are paying Employment Insurance premiums on self-employment and other eligible earnings (by choice);
• When we have applied for and received advance Canada Workers Benefit payments in the current tax year or want to apply for advance payments in the next tax year;
• Elected to split pension income with their spouse or commonlaw partner;
• Claimed a capital gains reserve on last or prior year’s return;
• Incurred a non-capital loss and want to be able to apply it to other years;
• Want to carry forward unused
amounts from the current year return, such as tuition fees or RRSP/PRPP contributions;
• Want to claim the Canada Workers Benefit for the current tax year;
• Want to report income in order to keep their RRSP/PRPP deduction limit up to date (also applicable to very young individuals);
• Want to receive the Goods and Services Tax credit or Harmonized Sales Tax credit (GST/HST credit) or any related provincial or territorial credits;
• Want to begin or continue receiving the Canada Child Benefit or any related provincial or territorial benefits (in this case, if the individual is married or living commonlaw, the individual’s spouse or common-law partner must also file a return);
• Want to receive or continue receiving the Guaranteed Income Supplement or Allowance Benefits from the Old Age Security program; or
• Want to claim the Climate Action Incentive (Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario only).
• Want to claim a refund;
• Received a demand to file a return from the CRA.
The above are some of the reasons why we need to file our taxes and earn something back, since the government provide all avenues for residents in Canada to get back what is “unduly” an over taxed income and hence from this, we can invest into other portfolios or investments to improve our social and financial resources and hence our ability to cover some routine expenses and needs
As acommunitywe should take another look at how we plan, prepare and perform financially in order to take advantage of government legislations. Finally, lets be wise and show the usefulness of knowledge as stated in the good old book, for the lack of knowledge my people perish!
Please Note: For any comments, corrections or recommendations, please forward all to my email: eddiesmith77@gmail.com
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Deputy mayor makes first public comments following John Tory’s abrupt resignation
Toronto Mayor John Tory was back in his office early Thursday, working on transition plans after formally submitting his resignation letter last night.
Tory said in his letter that he will officially step down at 5 p.m. on Friday.
At that point, Deputy Mayor Jennifer McKelvie will assume some of the mayor’s responsibilities, but will not in fact hold the position of mayor.
She confirmed in a statement released Thursday that she will not seek the top job herself.
“Residents can rest assured that my entire focus at this time is ensuring a smooth transition and continued good governance,” McKelvie said. “It is in that spirit that I must clarify that I will not be seeking to run for mayor in the upcoming by-election. Representing the residents of my ward, and ensuring a smooth, stable transition until a new mayor is elected, requires my full attention.”
She also thanked Tory “for his years of service here at City Hall” and wished him all the best.
Her duties after he steps down will include acting as a chief executive officer of the city, sometimes presiding
over council meetings and providing leadership to council, representing the city and council at official functions and adding new business to council meeting agendas. She will also take over administrative management of the mayor’s office and will be able to exercise any of the powers granted to the mayor by council.
However she will not have the “strong mayor” powers, such as a veto on council decisions affecting provincial priorities or the ability to hire and fire department heads. Nor will she sit on any of the boards the mayor was on,
except those the mayor was appointed to by council.
“There are definitely going to be limitations because she will not be having the strong mayor powers that Mayor Tory held,” Toronto Metropolitan University Professor Emeritus Myer Siemiatycki told CP24.
However he added that she’ll essentially “be in the same position as every previous mayor” with various “levers at her disposal” to lead the city.
“So there’s nothing unusual in the role that she will be playing; what was
unusual were the strong mayor powers that were conferred on Mayor Tory,” Siemiatycki said.
McKelvie will assume some of the mayoral powers and duties until the mayor’s chair is filled through a byelection.
The next time city council meets after the mayor officially steps down, councillors will declare his seat vacant and set a byelection for a new mayor to be elected. Nominations will open the next day and the clerk will set a nomination period of anywhere from 30 to 60 days. The byelection will be held 45 days after nominations close.
Tory’s departure after more than eight years as mayor swings wide open the door of the mayor’s office and there has already been considerable speculation as to who may run. Urbanist Gil Penalosa, who placed a distant second to Tory in the general election in the fall has said he intends to run again. Meanwhile Premier Doug Ford, who has sought a city council more cooperative to his agenda, has said that it would be a “disaster” for Toronto to elect a “lefty” mayor. Ford served as a city councillor when his brother Rob Ford was mayor before the Tory years. There has been speculation that the
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Waakye
Deputy mayor makes first public comments following John Tory’s abrupt resignation
cont’d from pg. 21
premier might encourage his nephew Michael Ford, who is currently an MPP, to run for the mayor’s chair.
A number of other names have been floated as well, such as former councillor Denzil Minnan-Wong, and current councillors Josh Matlow and Brad Bradford.
“I think we can tell already that it’s going to be a spirited, tough, energetic, contentious campaign,” Siemiatycki said. “We’ve seen that signal by Premier Ford’s comments yesterday. So I would imagine there will be some name candidates and they’ll be going at each other.”
Tory announced last Friday that he would be stepping down following the revelation that he had an affair with a woman on his staff. He subsequently said that he would remain as mayor long enough to see through the budget process. That process concluded in an all-day meeting that stretched late into the night Wednesday.
While some councillors had hailed Tory’s resignation as an opportunity to rewrite the budget, there were no major amendments proposed.
In a statement last night, the clerk’s office said all mayoral decisions made to date remain in effect.
Speaking with CP24 Thursday, Coun. Diane Saxe said she’s pleased that the question around Tory’s departure has been settled quickly.
“I’m glad that he didn’t drag us through a long period of uncertainty. That would have been very bad for the city,” she said. “The whole thing is very unfortunate. It certainly distracts us from the necessary business of the city, but at least we now know what to do. We’re moving forward. I’m sure that Jennifer McKelvey will steer us safely through the transition and it’s time to have a good conversation about the future of the city.”
She said she hopes whoever becomes the next mayor brings “a really thorough understanding” of the many challenges the city faces.
“It’s one of the largest governments in Canada and of the large governments, it’s the one with the most difficult financial challenges,” Saxe said. “We also need somebody of course with compassion to understand the ocean of needs that is really surrounding us, that has to somehow be balanced with our very limited resources.
“It’d be wonderful to have someone who can bring some inspiration and collaboration with other councillors.”
CP24
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African-Canadian Seniors Workshop on Wellness & Abuse
By Jonathan Baah Annobil, Toronto, ON
The African-Canadian Social Development Council (ACSDC) on Wednesday, February 15th 2023 organized a 1 day wellness and abuse workshop for seniors. The venue was the Abundant Life Assembly on 145 Dixon Road, Toronto.
The speaker was Ephraim T. Ephraim of Demin Consulting Toronto with about 50 senior participants in attendance. He lectured on the
definition and guiding principles of wellness. Also spoke about strategies to enhance the 7 dimensions of wellness. There was a coffee break for the seniors.
The next topic was elder abuse and the types of abuse-physical, sexual, emotional/psychological, neglect, abandonment, self neglect. He ended by explaining signs and symptoms of each
type of abuse with slides as well. Later on the participants were broken into 3 groups for discussions. Afterwards the 3 group representatives shared what the groups discussed.
Sumptuous lunch was served to cap off a very important and educative workshop for the seniors. The Mc was Tim Ogunnaike.
Participants
Participants
Black History Month Celebration at Vaughan City Hall
Sunday February 12th, Thornhill African Caribbean Canadian Association (TACCA) in collaboration with the City of Vaughan celebrated Black History at Vaughan City Hall. The event was emceed by CP 24’s Eden Debebe, Mayor Steven Del Duca with his opening remarks said “ This is a time to learn about the unique and inspiring stories of Black Canadians and their important role in the growth, development and history of our city, province and country,”
“Celebrating Black History Month provides an opportunity to reflect, recognize and remember the people and events in the African diaspora that changed the course of history.” Said Mayor Del Duca.
The keynote speaker was the Hon. Jean Augustine, recipient of the Key to the City of Vaughan.
Jean Augustine Former Member of Parliament a champion of Black History Month Advocacy shared the importance of telling stories about the achievements and challenges of Black Canadians and how it builds a stronger future.
“With Black History Month entrenched as a tradition in Canada, Augustine said it serves as an essential opportunity to share stories and experiences from those of African descent.
“By hearing the stories, one becomes empathetic, one becomes connected, and one would think about what can be done to make things better for others,” Augustine said.
A memorable spoken word was presented by Jumol Royes. Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Minister of Education, Stephen Lecce, Councillor Gino Rosati and Councillor Gila Martow.
The celebration ended on a high note with a fantastic performance by the TACCA Steel Orchestra
COMMUNITY
IN PICTURES
Ghanaian-Canadian Association of Ontario attends lying in state of Hazel McCallion
By Jonathan Baah Annobil, Mississauga, ON
A delegation was sent to represent the Ghanaian-Canadian Association of Ontario at the Mississauga City Hall. The delegation went to pay tribute to the veteran former Mayor of Missisauga, Hazel McCallion who died at the age of 101 on January 29, 2023 after serving Mississauga for 36 solid years.
Ghanalinx Foundation Donates To the International Federation of Skate Soccer (Accra, Ghana)
By Gabriel Odartey,
On Thursday January 12th 2023, the CEO of Ghanalinx Media Group and Ghanalinx Foundation, Mr. Gabriel Odartei and some supporters with the support of North Mississauga Soccer Club donated some soccer equipments and jerseys to the players at the International Federation of Skate Soccer in Accra Ghana.
During the visit, the founder of Skate Soccer, Mr.Albert Frimpong organized an exhibition match with some of the players. Mr. Frimpong, in an interview with Ghanalinx, stressed on the need for support to grow this sport. His players, Mr. Frimpong stated, are in desperate need of protective equipments such as, proper skate boards, elbow pads, gloves and helmets. They also need financial support to be able to build a more suitable playing ground for the sport, he pleaded.
The skate soccer players and their handlers were very elated with the things Mr. Odartei donated to them.
Skate soccer is a sport played by persons with physical disabilities, especially polio survivors. They sit on a slightly larger skateboard and play an adapted format of football.
To support the International Federation of Skate Soccer, contact Gabriel Odartei at 647-895-5073 or email info@ghanalinx.com
York Regional Police celebrate Black History Month
cont’d from pg. 1
National Anthem, Ms. Patricia Shirley was called upon to sing the Black National Anthem. It was followed by a short welcome address by Police Chief Jim MacSween. He was all smiles as he saw the huge crowd of civilians and Police Officers in the atrium. He said that after he was sworn in as Police Chief “our efforts to combat anti-black racism, both in our service and in our community were intensified.” Thereafter, Norma McCullough of the York Regional Police
(YRPSB) addressed the audience on behalf of YRPSB. The 29th edition Legacy Black History Month poster by artist Robert Small was also unveiled.
The keynote speaker was Mrs. Ginelle Skerritt, CEO of York Region Children’s Aid Society. She spoke about the reality of anti-black racism
and the toll it is having on Black children which need to be addressed. The trauma on our children as they see events on TV and social media is for real. She added that it is important to acknowledge the ongoing fight for true freedom and recognition of our humanity.
cont’d on pg. 47
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Huawei Launches Smart PV Solutions For All Scenarios Of African Residential Market
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Huawei has launched smart photovoltaic (PV) solutions for all scenarios of the African residential market at the Solar Power Africa Conference 2023 held in Cape Town, South Africa.
At the press conference announcing the launch, Xia Hesheng, President of Huawei Digital Power Sub-Saharan Africa Region, said that Huawei was releasing three residential solutions: Power-M, LUNA, and the high-end luxury solution.
Xia said, “The three residential solutions will help users cope with daily challenges such as loadshedding, which are prevalent across the region. Meanwhile, the residential market faces some challenges such as user experiences, mixing manufacturers, quality, service, efficiency and aesthetics.”
Xia noted that “Huawei is focusing on “4T” Technologies (Watt/Heat/ Battery/Bit), this will drive the residential PV scenarios with high quality products that are not only aesthetically pleasing but products that offer high quality system level solutions that integrate digitalisation and intelligence into the PV industry.”
Over its 25 years of operating in Sub Saharan Africa, Huawei has built a deep understanding of the region’s energy and technology requirements. “We supply smart photovoltaic (PV) solutions for all scenarios in the African residential market, committed to bringing clean energy to every home.”
Nick Lusson, VP of Huawei Smart PV Sub-Saharan Africa Region, gave an overview of the features and advantages of the three residential solutions at the launch.
Power-M is a high-quality power supply system for multi-scenario applications, flexible for use in apartments, houses or large villas.
“Huawei has demonstrated its aesthetic design skills as always, by bringing to consumers a sleek design energy system with the ultimate aesthetics. Thanks to the all-in-one and modular design, the inverter and battery are perfectly integrated, consumers can flexibly choose the number of battery modules
to expand the capacity from 5kWh to maxim 45kWh whenever they want.
The Power-M supports seamless switchover between multiple energy inputs, such as solar, grid, and generator. In order to provide a better home usage experience, Power-M has a fan-less construction with sleep-grade noise, the operation sound level is less than 29dbm. The unique plug and play design makes for an easy and quick installation in around two hours,” he said.
LUNA is an intelligent power system integrating smart power generation, smart power storage and smart power consumption. With the Huawei smart module controller, the homeowner can maximize the roof installation capacity, resulting in between 1030% more panels installed. The smart module controller can also significantly increase solar power generation by improving efficiency by 5-30%.
“To ensure the safety of installers and roof usage, the module-level shutdown function provides a safer roof voltage. The intelligent battery storage, ESS, can provide 10% more usable energy with the built-in optimiser in each battery module,” Lusson explained. The LUNA AI system can accurately predict photovoltaic power generation and household electricity consumption under different climate scenarios based on big data learnings of weather and electricity consumption habits. Using the FusionSolar APP, consumers can remotely monitor and manage LUNA anywhere anytime.
“What’s more, Huawei brings highend solutions to large villa owners. Thanks to the one-stop solution and premium service, the end users can enjoy an ultimate user experience for a fully integrated luxury power generation villa,” Lusson explained. Huawei and its local partners concluded the launch with a with Huawei smart photovoltaic (PV) solutions for all scenarios of the African residential market, together committing to bring green energy into every home and creating a better life experience for the people of Africa.
Peacefmonline.com
The Annual Ghanaian-Canadian Achievement Awards a celebration of Excellence Honoring our Community Achievers
Hosted by The Ghanaian News Corporation
Call for 2023 Award Nominations
Awards Criteria and Selection Process
This year’s (2023) presentation recognizes achievements in the following areas:
1. National honour: A community member whose work/contributions have been recognized nationally in Canada and thus brought recognition and pride to our community.
2. Community Service/Voluntarism: Persons who have consistently volunteered their time for a minimum of two years to a project or cause in our community or the larger Canadian society which has contributed to the quality of life of our community and/or Canadian society.
3. Professional Excellence: A continuous display of professional competence and excellence, devoid of any ethical violations in a person’s professional field or practice which can serve as a model for other professionals in our community.
4. Academic Excellence: Top class performance in academic pursuits at various levels of the educational ladder from High Schools, Colleges (CEGEP in Quebec), University or vocational/Professional training.
Cultural Promotion: An individual, group or organization which has worked consistently to promote Ghanaian culture for visible recognition in Canadian society.
6. Music, Arts and Entertainment/Firm Production: Individual or group artistes living in Canada who have consistently excelled and promoted Ghanaian music, Arts or other entertainment activities to international recognition levels over the past five years.
7. Sports: A consistent performance and achievement in the sports sector which has won nation-wide recognition and thus brought honour to our community.
8. Religion: Church groups or Religious organizations that have promoted religious and moral values in our community over the past five years.
9. Community Business Pioneers: Individuals or groups whose pioneering efforts in the business sector have spurred on and motivated other community members to venture into the business field.
2023 Nomination Form
I wish to nominate: Mr./Mrs./Ms/Miss/Dr.........................................................................................
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You’ll be dealt with if you disrupt peace on campus
UG authorities warn all students
Authorities at the University of Ghana, Legon have warned students who attempt to disrupt the peace on campus to desist from such acts as they will be dealt with in accordance with the laws and regulations of the University.
The authorities said students must apprise themselves of the channels made available by the University in seeking redress.
“The University will not countenance any violent conduct,” a press statement issued by the Registrar, Emelia AgyeiMensah, said.
It comes a couple of days after some students, mostly of the Commonwealth Hall of Residence, clashed with police over a High Court order served on the University.
The Order was an injunction, stopping the University from implementing a decision by its Council on the new residency policy.
But the statement on Thursday, February 16 insists that no policy dated October 26, 2022 was being implemented as at the time the order was filed.
“The University has and continues to maintain, both in and out of court, that it is implementing a decision of the
University Council, communicated by its notice dated December 14, 2022.”
It said it is within the Council’s remit to formulate such regulations and members of faculty and students are duly represented.
The statement said even by the time the University received an ex parte injunction, about 90 percent of affected students in both Commonwealth and Mensah Sarbah halls had accepted their residency and made payments.
“In spite of the difficulty in comprehending the ex parte order, as it related to a decision that did not exist, upon receipt of the order, the University immediately stopped further allocation of rooms at Commonwealth Hall out of the abundance of caution.”
But in replying a second order, for which some students marched on Tuesday, February 14, the University said “the order of injunction of the High Court may not be enforced”.
“In any case, an order is certainly not enforced in the violent and lawless manner in which the group acted,” it said about last Tuesday’s clashes.
Calm has since been restored but 18 persons were arrested and arraigned before an Accra Circuit Court.
“Students are again reminded that the University Statutes and Student Regulations provide channels for seeking redress, and that the University will not countenance any violent conduct.
“Any student who attempts to disrupt the peace on Campus will be dealt with according to the laws and regulations of the University,” the statement concluded.
Celebration of Life
The life of Oheneba Kofi Adjei, 74 was celebrated on Saturday 28th January, 2023 at the Apostles’ Continuation Church International Hall after interment at Queen Heaven Catholic Cemetery, 7300 Highway 27, Woodbridge. He is survived by 4 children, Barbara Adjei Bonsu Antwi, Richard Kwame Dapaah, Jerry Adjei and Gustav Adjei.
Final Funeral Rite
The final funeral rite of Rosemond Osei-Bonsu aka “Nana Rose” 67, was held at Apostles’ Continuation Church International Hall on Saturday January 28th, 2023. She is survived by daughter Vida Obeng and 3 grandchildren- Freda, Daniel and Stanley
Chief mourners
Viewing
Chief mourners
In-laws
At Thanksgiving service
The art of fashion and building your personal style forms when the wearer moves past consciously participating in trends and chooses to selectively participate. No designer includes every upcoming trend in their collections and frankly, neither should you. Is your style part of new year resolution?
Celebration of Life
The life of Patrick Knight Agyekum, 73 was celebrated at the Apostles’ Continuation Church International Hall, 10 Belfield Rd, Etobicoke on Saturday February 4th, 2023.
February
• African-Canadian Social Development Council celebrated Black History Month.
• Bank of Canada hiked key interest rate, revises inflation forecast.
• Oath of Citizenship bill introduced in Parliament, Ottawa.
• Most local GTA transit users except TTC riders would no longer pay double fare to connect to GO Transit.
• UN data reveals ‘nearly insurmountable’ scale of lost schooling due to COVID-19.
• Canadian economy grew 4.6% according to Statistics Canada.
• Federal government warns Canadians against fighting for Russia in Ukraine.
• MTN Ghana recorded GHS 2bn profit in 2021 an increase of 43.5% over the previous year.
• Ontario planning to deregulate traditional Chinese medicine acupuncture.
• Vancouver African Community celebrated Black History Month with action-packed events.
• Arresting journalists’ old-school, taking Ghana into dark ages of media persecution- Speaker Bagbin.
• Rev. Fr. Anthony Adusei C.S.Sp installed as Pastor of Our Lady of Good Counsel, Toronto
• GCAO organized exciting Black History Month celebration in Toronto for its Homework Club participants and Ghanaians.
• Rosemary Sadlier Oot presented with Lifetime Achievement Madiba Award.
March
• Ghana’s 65th Independence celebrated with flag raising at Mississauga Civic Centre.
• Government of Canada releases budget 2022.
• Ghana approved tax on electronic payments despite opposition protests.
• Putin’s war put global food security in jeopardy.
• Ketanji Brown Jackson confirmed as first Black female Supreme Court Justice in USA.
• Bank of Ghana warned public to desist from pricing goods and services in foreign currencies.
• Rev. Francis Owusu became 1st Ghanaian Minister appointed to head multi-cultural church in Montreal, Quebec.
• Ghana’s Deborah Acquah makes history with world-leading jump of 6.89’’ in Texas USA.
APRIL
• New “Seniors Keeping Connected” program launched in Toronto
• 11 year old Princess Kumi wins 2022 Bono East Girls in ICT program in Ghana.
• G 98.7 rebrands to Flow 98.7 as Stingray relinquishes heritage brand.
• Ontario deficit rose to $19.9 billion in Ford government’s 2022 election budget
• No foul play suspected in deaths of four cadets at Royal Military College, CAF says.
• TDSB planning to do away with auditions and entrance exams for specialty programs and schools.
May
• Doug Ford re-elected as Premier of Ontario
• Ghanaian Women’s Prayer Conference 20 Years anniversary.
• Bank of Canada raises benchmark interest rate to 1.5% signals more hikes on the way.
• Canada announced decriminalization plan for drug users in BC to fight over doses.
• Measures in new bill to keep guns away from
abusers, stalkers welcomed by advocates in Canada.
• Special prosecutor freezes all Sir John’s assets, targets overseas assets too.
• 3Community Cleanup Day at Chalkfarm, Toronto.
• Tim Horton’s app tracking ‘a mass invasion of Canadians privacy” watchdog.
• Impact Lives Church rebranding.
• Maiden Kente Festival by Endless Possibilities.
• Carassauga 2022 at Paramount Fine Foods Centre, Mississauga.
• Zumunta Muslim Association of Canada held its 2022 BBQ at Centennial Park, Etobicoke
• Ghanaian-Canadian Resource Hub opened in Toronto.
• The African Union and EU agreed to unite stance on food security amid famine warnings.
• France’s Macron inaugurated for second five-year term.
• New Patriotic Party Toronto Chapter elects new executives.
June 2022
• PM Trudeau urged Canada Day celebrants to reclaim Maple leaf as national symbol.
• Ghana delegation at Africa Energy & mining Conference interacts with H.E. Anselm Sowah and Toronto Ghanaian community members.
• Canada first ally to ratify NATO membership bids from Sweden and Finland.
• Jury makes largest known Canadian punitive damages award on record against Long-Term Disability insurer (Blue Cross life Insurance Company of Canada)-$1.5m.
• The new Executive Council of Ontario sworn in.
• ECOWAS sensitizes member states on new regional infrastructure master plan.
• Canada’s bank regulator beefs up rules for some types off home loans.
• Deportations halted for two Edmonton families at 11th hour.
• Phillipina Kyei makes her debut as Canada bounces Belgium 65-53 to open Global Jam.
• Ghana Canada house Montréal participated in Canada Day parade in Montreal Quebec.
• FIFA approved nationality switches for five Ghanaian players born in Europe.
• British PM Boris Johnson resigned, but was to stay on until a new leader could be chosen.
• • 2 Ghanaian-Canadian students shine at the 2022 Brookview Middle School graduation held at York University.
• Press conference for the Ghanaian-Canadian Heritage Centre Fundraising project held at the new community hub.
• Needy Aid Relief Organization organized Foodbank in Toronto.
• GCAO Homework Club celebrated end of school year in the new community hub.
July
• Prime Minister Justin Trudeau visited Ghanaian community stores in Montreal, Quebec.
• Ghanaian-Canadian Association of Ontario Seniors visited Peterborough Lift lock.
• His eminence Richard Kuuia Baawobr of Ghana elected new head of the Catholic Church in Africa.
• More Canadians attach strong attachment to their language than to Canada according to poll.
• World food crisis prompts rise in child marriages: Canada aid agencies.
• Brampton Park renamed in honor of the abolition of slaveryas Emancipation Park.
• Toronto Mayor to receive veto powers over City Council with new
YEAR IN REVIEW 2022
October
legislation.
• The Ghana Calvary Methodist United Church held a post ordination thanksgiving service in honor of their minister.
• HMR King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse visits Toronto and observes Homowo in Malton Park, Mississauga.
• Bishop Bob Tacky fetes King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II for his birthday.
• Fr. Matthias Kotoka Amuzu celebrated the 25th Silver Jubilee of his priestly ordination at St. Andrews Catholic Church.
• National Ethnic Press & Media Council of Canada celebrated Canada Day.
• The feast of Uganda Martyrs held at St. Andrews Catholic Church.
• First annual Ghanaian-Canadian Association of Ontario Community Cup.
• Opoku Ware Old Students Association (Akatakyie) held its 70th anniversary picnic in Mississauga.
August
• H.E. Mrs. Samira Bawumia attended GCAO Women’s Conference in Toronto.
• National Ethnic Press & Media Council of Canada (NEPMCC) opens booth at CNE 2022.
• Canadian investors announced plans of investing in Ghana’s technology sector.
• PM Trudeau announced first step on dental care, boosts to housing benefit, GST credit.
• Ontario gives OK for nursing college to expedite international nurse registration.
• Toxic chemicals commonly found in dollar store items, testing shows.
• Ghanaian-Canadian seniors of GCAO visited Penetanguishne.
• Ghana Police & Immigration attends 59th International Association of Women Police Conference in Niagara Falls.
• Safe Haven Cancer Support Society maiden in person group meeting in Toronto.
• Nana Minka-Kwarteng, new Toronto Asanteman Abusuapanin installed.
• Cultural Day at Apostles’ Continuation Church International.
• Oyerepa Radio/TV host Auntie Naa receives award in Toronto.
• King Bruce organizes meet and greet for International Students in Toronto.
September
• Togbi Nyaho Tamakloe VI honored by Ghanaian News in Toronto.
• Safe Haven 5k Walk & Fundraiser in support of Breast Cancer Awareness.
• Canada Post launches loan program with TD Bank Group.
• Type 1 diabetes risk increases in young people following COVID-19 infection, studies suggest.
• RBC economists said recession could arrive as early as Q1 of next year.
• The World’s biggest Afrobeats festival returned home to Ghana on 29th & 30th December 2022.
• Apostle Anokye-Manu celebrates 60th birthday and 32ndministry cum marriage anniversary.
• 15th Annual Women’s Courage Awards/Fundraiser held in Toronto.
• Installation of Nana Obonko VII in Ghana, known in private life as Mr. Solomon Kwame Ghansah.
• Apostle Continuation Church held its 15th Annual North American Women Convention in Toronto.
• African-Canadian Social Development Council (ACSDC) holds conference in Toronto
• Apostle Dr. James Quainoo retired from full-time ministry.
• Appreciation & Farewell dinner in honor of Very Rev. Joseph Owusu Atuahene & family.
• Toronto Pearson International Airport among 5 worst largest North American airports in overall satisfaction.
• York Regional Police raises flag to promote intimate partner violence awareness.
• Ghanaian Anglican Church of Toronto celebrated its 18thanniversary and official name change
• World population hits 8 billion, creating many challenges.
• Canada boosts immigration targets: immigration levels plan 2023-2025.
• CRTC giving mobile virtual network operators access to large telecoms networks.
• More Ghanaian students pick USA for higher education
• Ghana is #1 in Access to Financial Inclusion in Africa.
• Ghana to block millions of Sim cards by end of the month.
• Graduation ceremony of Mrs. Comfort Ayiku from Global University Berean School of Bible
• Fr. George Kibura Njuguna installed as new Pastor of St. Andrews Roman Catholic Church.
• Rev Milton Offei celebrated 30 years in ministry.
• Twitter laid off staff at its only African office in Ghana.
• The Resilience and Contribution of Older Women Recognition gala dinner in Toronto.
• The Association of Ghanaian-Canadian Law Enforcement Officers (AGCLEO) inaugurated,
November
• Canada-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (CANCHAM) attends Construction Expo in Toronto.
• EOCO seized 37 luxury cars allegedly stolen from USA and Canada, arrests 10 garage owners.
• Canada: Quebec makes oath to King optional for politicians.
• Ghana would soon have one of the most digitalized healthcare systems in Africa- VP Dr. Bawumia.
• Ghana: Debt exchange provided us the opportunity to reset the economy- Fin. Minister Ofori- Atta.
• Ghana’s newest University (Ghana Communication Technology University) is putting West Africa at the forefront of the digital revolution.
• The world’s only nonuplets-nine babies born at the same time-have safely returned home to Mali after spending the first 19 months of their lives in Morocco.
• GCAO presents Golden Age Christmas Party for its seniors.
• Retirement and Appreciation service in honor Pastor Cyril Williams and family of the Apostolic Church Int’l Canada.
• Aburi Old Girls Association (AOGA) Canada celebrated 10th anniversary.
• Ghana to receive $3bn IMF bailout.
• Final funeral rites of the Legend A B Crentsil held in Calgary Alberta.
• Celebration of life of Julius Amega Dogbe.
December
• Ontario expanding private delivery of public health-care services in 3-step plan.
• Former broadcaster and Lt. Governor David only passed away.
• Former GTA lawyer Kweku Ackaah Boafo elevated to Ghana’s Court of Appeal.
• Brookview Grade 8 Students visited Westview Centennial Secondary School for a day of Tech learning.
• Toronto homeowners would face biggest property tax hike since amalgamation.
• Staff-Sergeant Don Yirenkyi of YRP celebrated his 50thbirthday.
• Okuapeman Cultural Association of Ontario held its annual Christmas Party.
• Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI passed away in Rome.
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)
BETHANY METHODIST CHURCH-BRAMPTON
PLACE OF WORSHIP1A KNIGHTSBRIGE ROAD (Senior’s Lounge)
Sunday Divine Service 2PM-5PM
Online Prayer Meeting
Fridays at 8PM -9PM 416-800-4317 Code # 9632581
Edmonton Methodist 778-237-7339
Ottawa Methodist 613-315-3443
Redemption Methodist Church
Location: 955 Wilson Ave., Unit 12, North York, ON
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
Contact: Robert Frans (289-541-5579)
Felix Gyimah (289-931-8443)
Contacts: Agnes Donkor - 647-881-4808, Felicia Owusu - 647-533-1093, Grace Kubi - 647-608-5373
Holy Trinity Methodist Church, Montreal
Place of Worship: 455 Church Street - Beaconsfield Qc H9W 3S6
Day and Time of Worship
Sunday Divine Service: 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Friday Prayer Meetings: 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Contact: Bro. Joselin Twumasi 438-881-6640
Ebenezer Methodist Church
Stoney Creek United Church (Chapel)
1 King Street West, Stoney Creek, Hamilton
Contact: Bro. Kofi Bonsu 289-684-6074
Worship Time: 11 am to 1 pm
Peniel Methodist Church Vancouver #2322 1248 82 Ave. Surrey, BC, V3W 3E9
Sister Comfort T. Owusu 647-895-7131
Worship Time: 9 am to 10:30
RICHLY BLESS YOU
FOOD FOR LIFE
Bringing the Gospel to our Community By Rev. Isaac De-Graft Takyi
THE CHRISTIAN IN 2023: HOW TO REACH YOUR BEST IN 2023
THINK THROUGH THESE QUOTES:
1. “All experiences convince me, not only that God is ever present, but also, that it is by contact with the Spirit of God that the spirit of man reaches its highest and its best”— Right Honorable Lord Denning.
2. “Take the challenge of your life.Reach out to your goals. There is no limit to what you can achieve.”—Lailah Gifty Akita
3. “We are what we do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act, but a habit.”— Aristotle
4. “There is no easy walk to freedom anywhere, and many of us will have to pass through the valley of the shadow of death again and again before we reach the mountaintop of our desires.”—Nelson Mandela
5. “Without clear goals, step by step plan to reach them, and the discipline to take action, you are like a ship that has set sail with no end.”—Isaac DeGraft Takyi.
THINK THROUGH WHAT I CALL “ISAAC’S PRINCIPLES”:
GENESIS 26
Now there was a famine in the land—besides the previous famine in Abraham’s time—and Isaac went to Abimelek king of the Philistines in Gerar. 2 The Lord appeared to Isaac and said, “Do not go down to Egypt; live in the land where I tell you to live 3 Stay in this land for a while, and I will be with you and will bless you For to you and your descendants I will give all these lands and will confirm the oath I swore to your father Abraham. 4 I will make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and will give them all these lands, and through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, 5 because Abraham obeyed me and did everything I required of him, keeping my commands, my decrees and my instructions.”
6 So Isaac stayed in Gerar.
12 Isaac planted crops in that land and the same year reaped a hundredfold, because the Lord blessed him. 13 The man became rich, and his wealth continued to grow until he became very wealthy. 14 He had so many flocks and herds and servants that the Philistines envied him. 15 So all the wells that his father’s servants had dug in the time of his father Abraham, the
Philistines stopped up, filling them with earth.
16 Then Abimelek said to Isaac, “Move away from us; you have become too powerful for us.”
17 So Isaac moved away from there and encamped in the Valley of Gerar, where he settled. 18 Isaac reopened the wells that had been dug in the time of his father Abraham, which the Philistines had stopped up after Abraham died, and he gave them the same names his father had given them.
19 Isaac’s servants dug in the valley and discovered a well of fresh water there. 20 But the herders of Gerar quarreled with those of Isaac and said, “The water is ours!” So he named the well Esek, because they disputed with him. 21 Then they dug another well, but they quarreled over that one also; so he named it Sitnah. 22 He moved on from there and dug another well, and no one quarreled over it. He named it Rehoboth, saying, “Now the Lord has given us room and we will flourish in the land.”
23 From there he went up to Beersheba. 24 That night the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am the God of your father Abraham. Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bless you and will increase the number of your descendants for the sake of my servant Abraham.”
25 Isaac built an altar there and called on the name of the Lord There he pitched his tent, and there his servants dug a well.
26 Meanwhile, Abimelek had come to him from Gerar, with Ahuzzath his personal adviser and Phicol the commander of his forces. 27 Isaac asked them, “Why have you come to me, since you were hostile to me and sent me away?”
28 They answered, “We saw clearly that the Lord was with you; so we said, ‘There ought to be a sworn agreement between us’—between us and you. Let us make a treaty with you 29 that you will do us no harm, just as we did not harm you but always treated you well and sent you away peacefully. And now you are blessed by the Lord.”
30 Isaac then made a feast for them, and they ate and drank. 31 Early the next
morning the men swore an oath to each other. Then Isaac sent them on their way, and they went away peacefully.
32 That day Isaac’s servants came and told him about the well they had dug. They said, “We’ve found water!” 33 He called it Shibah, and to this day the name of the town has been Beersheba.
For many people, January is a time when we reflect on our life and question whether we’re fulfilling God’s purposes for our life.I trust that you are one of those and therefore you are asking the right questions. Why are you here on this earth?Do you know why you are alive in 2023? How do you want your life to be by December 2023? How are you going to reach your best in 2023?
To reach your best learn and practice the principles that Isaac used:
1. Understand that famine is part of life
2. Know that famines do not last forever
3. Arise and do something about your life amid the famine
4. Listen to the voice and the instruction of God to you specifically
5. Obey God wholeheartedly and completely
6. Plant your crop. Focus on your business and diligently work hard
7. Keep working hard till you become very wealthy
8. Relate very well with every person including your enemies
9. Be wise during times of disputes and in dealing with oppositions
10. Never give up on your dreams
11. Always depend on God and on His promises to you, and
12. Always connect with God in worship, praise and thanksgiving
Thank you so much and please read through Isaac’s story and share with me any other principles you find.
EVANGEL
ASSEMBLY OF GOD CHURCH
314 Rexdale Blvd. Etobicoke, Ont. M9W 1R6
Tel: 416-242-7950
Fax: 416-242-8573
Church Activities
Sunday School: 10a.m. -11:00a.m.
Church Service: 11a.m. - 1:30p.m.
Sunday Evening: 7p.m. - 8:30p.m.
Wednesday Bible Studies: 7p.m. - 8:30p.m.
Friday Prayer Meeting: 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
NEW LOCATION
100 Penn Drive, Unit #6, North York, Ont.
Tel: 416-419-6671
South Africa’s Deputy President Resigns
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the resignation of his deputy, David Mabuza, thanking him for his “unwavering support” over the last five years.
Local reports say it comes as no surprise because Mr Mabuza had already announced earlier this month that he would be stepping down. He will stay in the post until Mr
York Regional Police celebrate Black History Month
Ramaphosa announces his successor, widely expected to be new ANC Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
A cabinet reshuffle is expected next week once South Africa’s annual budget is announced. The government is under pressure to prove it has the answers to the countries economic woes and rolling blackouts.
Source: BBC
Assembly of God Church, Mississauga Transformation Centre
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: transformationcentreag@gmail.com
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
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.
John10 :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
cont’d from pg. 31
Greg Birkett and daughter wowed the audience with a poem they both recited written by Greg on Black History.
Superintendent Maurice James then presented Deputy Chief Robertson Rouse with an award for 36 solid years of service to YRP. In his acceptance speech, Deputy Chief Rouse said when he joined the force, there were only 4 Blacks but now over 140 Blacks are enlisted in YRP. He also said he never wanted to capsize the boat but wanted to rock the boat to thunderous applause and laughter.
Jay Smooth (Saxophonist), Rachel Walcott (Steel pan player), and trio Kenni Hite, Jivaro Smith and George St. Kitts entertained the audience as part of the program. Among the VIPs at the event were Newmarket Deputy Mayor Tom Vegh, NewmarketAurora MPP Dawn Callagher Murphy, Richmond Hill Councilor Karen Cilowitz, and Newmarket Councilor Christina Bisanz. Lunch was served after the event.
29th Edition Legacy Black History Month Poster Unveiled
Robert Small, CEO of Legacy Enterprises and Order of Canada recipient’s 2023 Legacy poster was unveiled. Legacy Enterprises specializes in the creation of innovative products that educate the public about contributions of African (Black) people worldwide.
Robert Small spoke about the four people he chose for his 2023 poster-
Entrepreneur Warren Salmon, Social Activist Debbie Douglas, Educator Karen Hudson and Artist Kwame Delfish. Of the 4 people on the poster, Warren Salmon and Kwame Delfish were there in person to witness the unveiling the Legacy poster. The unveiling was done by Robert Small and Ginelle Skerritt as Police Chief MacSween observed.
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.
Friday Night Prayer: 8p.m.-10p.m.
Pastor Eric Amoah
Location: 14 Haas Rd. , #100, Etobicoke, ON, M9W 3A2
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.
COME AND YOU WILL BE BLESSED
Pastor Dennis Awuku 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
The Apostolic Church Int'l.
Canada Miracle Assembly
MOVED TO NEW LOCATION
Apostle Jeremiah Mensah (Resident Apostle)
31 Airview Road
Etobicoke, Ontario, M9W 1P6
Meeting Schedule
Resident Apostle contact: 437-217-0085 Office Line: 416-740-1979
Immanuel Assembly of God
Church, Scarborough
Sunday School: 9:30am -10:30am
Church Service: 10:30am - 12 noon
Rev. Douglas O. Pastor-in-chargeAnsah
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.
Rhema Power of Grace Chapel Int'l
Invites all Christians, Non-Christians and members of the community to join us worship the Great Jehovah
NEW Place of Worship: 135 Oakdale Rd, North York, ON
THE APOSTLES' CONTINUATION CHURCH INTERNATIONAL (CANADA)
North American Headquarters:
10 Belfield Road
Toronto, Ont., M9W 1G1
Tel: 416-247-6629
Fax: 416-247-5308
Website: www.apostlescontinuation.org
SERVICE TIMES:
Worship Service - Sunday 10:30 a.m.
Bible Studies Service Wednesday 9:00 p.m.
All Night Service - Friday 9:30 p.m.
Deliverance - Saturday 4:00 p.m.
Worship With Us At These Branches In Canada
Toronto 10 Belfield Road
Tel: 416-247-6629
Scarborough Assembly 63 Howden Rd., Unit 'F' Scarborough, ON, M1R 3C7 Tel 647-850- 0142 Fax 416-945- 9445
Montreal Assembly 378 Cremazie East Montreal, Quebec, H2P 1E5
Tel: 514-271-9083
Pastor-In-Charge: John Arhin
Contact:
Res: 450-687-4916
Cell: 514-654-6178
Glory Pentecostal Ministry of Toronto
Pastor-in-charge: Rev. Rockson Owusu Atwima - 416-708-7742
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
Invites all Christians and Non-Christians to join us to worship the Almighty God 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
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.
Rev. Bishop Joe Bonnah Founder
&Pastor-in-charge
Contact Lines: 416-321-2796 (Pastor's Res) 416-747-9225 (Church) Cell: 647-921-2414
Pastor Appiah Jacob
Apostle Osei Bonsu
For information call: 905-840-7387, 647-208-1093
416-209-9136, 647-710-2573
THE IMPORTANCE OF DISCUSSING SEX WITH OUR CHILDREN
By Doris Osei Bonsu, Crisis Counselor, Toronto, ON
All children have sexual feelings. These feelings are a normal part of human growth and development. Talking about sexcan be awkward, but the earlier you start the discussion, the better prepared your child will be to make safer decisions about it. And your child may be better able to deal with peer pressureand media influences as he or she gets older.
Study after study haveshown that teenagers want more information about sex than they are getting. When asked how they would choose to learn about sex, nine out of ten say from their parents-yes, their parents-not from their friends or a health class or books. When asked if they actually talk to their parents about sex, however, only about one in ten says yes. The reason, according to most teenagers, is that their parents hold back.
Why are parents reluctant to discuss sex with their teenagers?
• “I don’t want to encourage sex.” Many parents believe that talking to young people about sex will lead to premature sexual activity; that children will
interpret their parents’ willingness to talk as permission to become sexually involved. Both beliefs are false. Researchers who have studied this question extensively find no evidence that sex education, from whatever source, increases sexual activity. What they do find is that lack of education increases unsafe sex. The message children get from discussions of sex is the message you communicate. If you say that you do not think teenagers should have sex, your child will hear you. He or she may not agree with you, but if you say nothing, you will never learn what your child thinks, nor will your teen know where you stand.
• “My child knows more than I do.” Some parents believe that they don’t need to discuss sex because their children already know whatever they need to know, from sex education in school or other sources. And some young adolescents are convinced they “know it all.” They don’t. The sex education provided in a typical junior or senior high school consists of a total of five to ten hours of instruction and/ or discussion. The emphasis is usually on anatomy and physiology.
Welcome Home Evangelistic Ministries
Sexual feelings and sexual relationships; the issues that concern adolescents’ most, are rarely mentioned. If contraception and STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) are introduced, it is often in the eleventh and twelfth grades, which may be after the fact. In short, sex education in school tends to be too little, too late, and boring. So young people turn to their friends, older siblings, and whatever books, magazines, and TV shows are available, and they come up with a few facts, a good many halftruths, and almost as many untruths. Your adolescent may have an advanced sexual vocabulary, but this doesn’t mean he knows what he’s talking about. • “I don’t know how to begin.” Perhaps the main reason parents feel awkward about discussing sex is that they don’t know how. Today’s parents likely came of age after the sexual revolution, but sex may still have been a taboo subject in their homes. When the time comes to talk with their children, they don’t have role models for being parents of sexually open teenagers. In spite of what they think they should do, a part of them feels it is inappropriate to include frank sexual discussions in
their child’s upbringing.
How can parents overcome their own hesitations and their young adolescent’s resistance? Here are some suggestions:
• Don’t postpone discussions of sex until you think the adolescent is involved in a relationship. Ideally, you should start talking to your child before he or she has become sexually active. 10to 12-year-olds are less likely to take the discussions personally and react defensively and more likely to say what is on their minds. A younger adolescent won’t take your views as a judgment. Having said this, I must add that it is never too late for you and your adolescent to have the conversation (or several of them. If you want your child to consider sex a normal, not scary or compulsive or super-glorious part of life, the most natural approach is to weave discussions of sexual topics into everyday conversation. TV shows (both serious shows and sitcoms), magazine articles, the advice columns in newspapers, and even gossip columns provide ample opportunities to discuss sexual behavior and values. (More than 70 percent of the television shows that are the most popular with
cont’d on pg. 51
Lead
SUNDAY
WEEKDAY SERVICES:
LOCATION:
Lifestyle
This column is devoted to answering your questions on health an d discusions of diseases which
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
By David Yaw Twum-Barima, MD , MSc, FRCPCOver the years people have asked me several health questions and I will like to highlight some of them in this issue of GN.
1.How long can you safely keep leftovers in the refrigerator?
Leftovers can be kept for three to four days in the refrigerator. Be sure to eat them within that time. After that the, the risk of food poisoning increases. If you don’t think you’ll be able to eat leftovers within four days, freeze them immediately.
Food poisoning — also called foodborne illness — is caused by harmful organisms, such as bacteria in
contaminated food. Because bacteria typically don’t change the taste, smell or look of food, you can’t tell whether a food is dangerous to eat. So if you’re in doubt about a food’s safety, it’s best to throw it out.
Coffee: Does it offer health benefits?
By David Yaw Twum-Barima, MD , MSc, FRCPC
Coffee has a long history of being blamed for many ills — from the humorous, “It will stunt your growth” to the not-so-humorous claim that it causes heart disease and cancer. But some recent research indicates that coffee may not be so bad after all. So which is it — good or bad for your health? The best answer may be: It doesn’t seem to hurt and it may help, but it probably all depends on how much.
The latest research has not only confirmed that moderate coffee consumption doesn’t cause harm, it’s also uncovered possible benefits. Studies show that the risk for type 2 diabetes is lower among regular coffee drinkers than among those who don’t drink it. Also, coffee may reduce the risk of developing gallstones, discourage the development of colon cancer, improve cognitive function, reduce the risk of liver damage in people at high risk for liver disease, and reduce the risk of Parkinson’s disease. Coffee has also been shown to improve endurance performance in long-duration physical activities.
For those who drink coffee to stay alert, new research suggests that you’ll stay more alert, particularly if you are fighting sleep deprivation, if you spread your coffee consumption over the course of the day. For instance, if you usually drink 16 ounces in the morning, try consuming a 2-3 ounce serving every hour or so. Again, moderation is the key.
However, other evidence indicates that coffee is not completely innocent. Caffeine, coffee’s main ingredient is a mild addictive stimulant. And coffee does have modest cardiovascular effects such as increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, and occasional irregular heartbeat that should be considered. Studies have been largely inconclusive regarding coffee and its effect on women’s health issues such as breast health, cancer, and osteoporosis. But, the negative effects of coffee tend to emerge in excessive
drinking so it is best to avoid heavy consumption.
One large study of 128,000 men and women showed no increase in the risk of heart disease from drinking filtered coffee. The findings — which will published in May , 2006, in the journal “Circulation” — indicated that it didn’t matter how much coffee participants drank.
But another study of 4,000 coffee drinkers published in March 2006 in the “Journal of the American Medical Association” found that two or more cups of coffee a day can increase the risk of heart disease in people with a specific genetic mutation that slows the breakdown of caffeine in the body. Several older studies have shown conflicting results.
The design of a study can have some effect on the interpretation of results, which may be another reason for the different conclusions. Given the large number of participants in the study that showed no risk, it would be reasonable to conclude that coffee poses little or no threat to cardiovascular health. However, this is not to say that you should disregard the old maxim, “Everything in moderation.” Although coffee may not be harmful, other beverages such as milk and juice contain important nutrients that coffee does not.
As noted above, some evidence suggests that drinking coffee may protect against type 2 diabetes and colon cancer but clearly nobody will advocate coffee consumption for that purpose, there is much more evidence of a protective effect from fruits, vegetables and whole grains than from coffee. So enjoy your coffee as part of a healthy diet that includes a wide variety of foods.
References: 1) Mayo Clinic Housecall : May 2006
2) Harvard Health Publications, May 2006
Fortunately, most cases of food poisoning can be prevented with proper food handling. To practice food safety, quickly refrigerate perishable foods, such as meat, poultry, fish, dairy and eggs — don’t let them sit more than two hours at typical room temperature or more than one hour at temperatures above 90 F (32 C).
Uncooked foods, such as cold salads or sandwiches, also should be eaten or refrigerated promptly. Your goal is to minimize the time a food is in the “danger zone” — between 40 and 140 F (4 and 60 C) — when bacteria can quickly multiply.
When you’re ready to eat leftovers, reheat them on the stove, in the oven or in the microwave until the internal temperature reaches 165 F (74 C). Because they may not get hot enough, slow cookers and chafing dishes aren’t recommended for reheating leftovers.
2.Is tap water as safe as bottled water?
Tap water and bottled water are generally comparable in terms of safety. So the choice of tap or bottled is mostly a matter of personal preference. In Canada, the responsibility for the regulation of bottled water is shared by Health Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Health Canada establishes health and safety standards while the CFIA develops standards related to the packaging, labeling and advertisement of these products and handles all inspection and enforcement duties.
On the other hand, tap water is distributed by the appropriate municipalities and regulated by the appropriate province or territory. Health Canada is involved in the development of Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality. Quality standards for both bottled water and tap water are similar. Hence both bottled water and municipally distributed water that meet or exceed their required health and safety standards are considered to be safe.
are common among the African Canadians.
Overcoming the Challenge of feeling un-loved and rejected in your relationships --- Part 1
Challenges are unavoidable in our daily lives, especially in our relationships. All challenges must have their ultimate purpose and benefit of shaping our character, teaching us new and vital lessons of life, toughening us, drawing us closer to God for godliness, and humbling us to be more repentant, kind, and compassionate. But we must live in such a wise and godly way that we can avoid unnecessary and destructive challenges due to recklessness, pride, laziness, stubbornness, disobedience, foolishness, immature decisions, and unwise choices. Today, many of us face the huge challenge of feeling un-loved and un-accepted, and feeling rejected in our marriages, courtships, homes, and families, which are all transferred to churches, institutions, and the workplace. Women in particular are the chief victims. To deal with the challenges of love and acceptance, and to also avoid rejection, I will offer a few suggestions:
1) Begin Your Relationship In The Right Way
Do not start your relationship with a faulty start of negative factors such as immorality, rebellion against parental authority (or authority of your elders), and lightheartedness, and settle in marriage or the love relationship with that weak or poor foundation. In many of such instances, pregnancy and intense sexual activity results, which is then converted into marriage, without careful consideration of future implications, and in-built conviction and desire to sacrificially love and accept the partner without dependence on mere feelings and emotional decisions.
2) Let Your Relationship Be Based On True Knowledge
Make all the necessary inquiries that will enable you to ensure that you know very well, the person you are going to share your life with. Gather as much information and important knowledge as you can, about his past life, his present lifestyle, his personality, and his character. Be fully aware that you fall in love with a personality, but you finally live with a character Knowledge is what we really use to live with people Therefore, pray to the Lord to show you all that you need to know, and use all the means available to you to gather essential information about the person before you make a commitment. Beware also of false or distorted knowledge about the person, which could cause you to start or continue the relationship with doubts, suspicion, and fear. If you allow yourself to be fed by wrong advice and information from family members and friends, or become rooted in old-fashioned cultural and traditional beliefs that do not promote meaningful relationships, then you can set the pace for behavior and acts that would breed rejection, due to conditions that would not permit genuine love to be
established between the two of you.
3) Check Your Motives; Be Sincere, And Have Insight
Examine yourself critically and find out if a habit, an offence, or fault of yours is not contributing towards the other person’s un-loving attitude towards you. If you discover any negative factor on your part, then make the necessary changes (including real repentance and apologies for offences), and allow your new behavior and lifestyle to build fresh love and acceptance in your mate or friend. It is common to also discover that people marry their partners or pick lovers and other partners for because of business advantages, beauty, fame, financial position, talents and gifts, desire to use the woman to bear children for him (or the woman simply wanting a man who can make her pregnant), and other forms of riches and gains as the overriding motive. Although several men deceive and take advantage of women, there have been cases where a man sincerely loves a woman, but it is rather the woman who camouflages her true motives, and creates a false bond with him merely to use him and gain from his efforts and resources. After a while the man discovers it and begins to pull away until all of his love and acceptance of the woman erodes away completely.
It is important to examine your true motives and deal with any insincerity in your mind and heart. Even when you are wrong in any area or wrong at any time, do the best you can to ensure that you are sincerely wrong and not deceitful or mischievous.
If you realize, that the word “love” is used in the “love affair” as a term more than a definition of things practiced in the relationship, then both of you must thoroughly address the issue. Sometimes the person has not really opened his heart to accept you, but “loves some things of yours” or “some things about you”, but does not genuinely love you as a person. In such cases you should know that you have already set the stage for future rejection and absence of love in the relationship. If you do business, engage in ministry, or run an organization with someone whose motive is to simply use you for his selfish ambitions, then you must be sure that in the end the man will not treat you fairly, and will not exhibit the love and acceptance you deserve or expect from him.
4) Engage In Open Communication And Dialogue
Communication is the blood of all relationships, and your relationship will therefore be anemic or lifeless if communication does not flow from both sides of the couple or lovers in the love affair, marriage, or relationship. Open and sincere communication is the foundation for true and total knowledge that will be synthesized by the mind
and heart to generate and build true love that is enthusiastic, satisfying, and sustaining. Learn to be a good listener in order to ask intelligent and necessary questions, and offer good answers Every person who is a poor listener is always a very poor communicator as well. If God wanted you to talk more than to listen, He would have given you two mouths and one ear! Please, learn to listen to people, if you are ever going to understand them, agree to work with them in unity, and be of a blessing to them.
By Dr. Samuel Kisseadoo, Professor of Biology in Virginia. Ordained Licensed Minister, International Evangelist, and Author. Relationships Marriage & Family Counselor. E-mail: kisseadoo@ msn.com. Website for resources: www. fruitfulministriesint.com. Tune in to JOY 99.7 FM in Accra, Ghana to listen to Dr. Kisseadoo’s weekly broadcast “Hope For Your Family” on Sat. 5:30am-6am, Ghana time (1:30am-
2:00am, US Eastern Time in MarchNov.). Access the broadcast on the Internet with MYJOYONLINE.COM.
For free counseling, programs, prayer, messages, books, speaking engagements, call Dr. Kisseadoo in Virginia, USA, on 1-757-7289330 (or call 233-20-8126533 or 233-276322982 in Accra, or 233-275-353802 in Kumasi, Ghana). Ghana Fruitful Ministry E-mail is: fmighana.accra@ gmail.com. Call 233-20-8209567 in Ghana to obtain additional rich information from Dr. Kisseadoos’s books in Ghana. Use his name “Dr. Samuel Kisseadoo” to search: RedLeadBooks.com or Amazon. com for some of his books. He can personally mail some copies to you as well.
In Ghana, call Tigo or Airtel 545 and follow the prompts for daily inspirational messages of Dr. Kisseadoo. Permission granted to freely share but with acknowledgement.
The importance of discussing sex with our Children
cont’d from pg. 49
teenagers contain sexual content.) A program on teenage pregnancy can set the stage for talking about why (other) teenagers take chances and how much your child knows.
Don’t overwhelm the young adolescent with information. If your son or daughter asks a question, answer it and ask if there is anything else they would like to know. Your goals should be first to find out what your child knows and correct misinformation and second to let the youngster know that it is okay to talk about sex. The best way to break the ice is to show the adolescent you are interested in his or her views on topics like teenage pregnancy and sexual harassment.
• Respect your adolescent’s privacy. As teenagers move into adolescence, their desire for privacy increases. They don’t want you going through their drawers or email while they are in school, and they don’t want you prying into their private thoughts. The rule that sex is private is not for adults only. If your daughter takes you into her confidence, don’t rush off to tell your husband or your best friend what she said. Let her decide whom she wants or doesn’t want to know about her feelings.At some point, nearly all preteens ask “How old do you have to be to have intercourse?”
Don’t assume that your son or daughter is contemplating an affair. Most young teenagers are looking for reasons not to have sex, and welcome their parent’s
help in saying no. Even still, it might not be too soon to begin discussing now how to make responsible decisions about sex, and bad reasons for having sex before marriage.
The best approach with preteens is to emphasize the real risk:
• Unprotected sex-at any age, even once, can result in pregnancy. The only way to prevent pregnancy is to abstain from intercourse. No form of contraception is 100 percent effective.
• Pregnancy at an early age is both physically and psychologically risky. Very young mothers are more likely to have complicated pregnancies and deliveries than are women in their twenties; their babies are more likely to be underweight, sickly, and slow to develop. Girls who become mothers in their teens are far less likely than other girls to complete high school or go to college. They are also less likely than other girls to marry the father of their baby or, if they do, to stay married. Abortion also entails greater risk when the girl is very young, it’sonly because young teens are reluctant to face the possibility that they are pregnant and delay seeing a physician. In short, young adolescents should know that saying no until they are older is important to their health and their future.
Around the World Sports Scene
Ghana’s Soccer at Crossroad
Gone were the days when countries shiver when they were going to meet Ghana Black Stars. Nowadays countries that the heyday local teams could have easily beaten are beating the national teams easily. Why? The reason being that from my point of view there is no plan for Sports from the current and previous governments.
Senegal invested heavily in the youth teams and it has yielded tremendous results. We should stop harping on past glories and go back to the drawing table and restart the colts, academicals. The interschool soccer tournaments should be given priority.
Our under 13, 14, 15, and 16s should be given attention. GFA please act no as Ghana soccer is in free down fall. Clubs are now looking for sensational teenagers to train them to be in their “prime” when they hit 18.
I doff my heart for GFA in making Chris Hughton as the head coach of the Black Stars. He should be given peace of mind to do his job. GFA and politicians should not interfere with his selection and allow him to do his job. On the rumors of extending Ghana Football Authority presidency to 3 terms if it is true will not bode well for Ghana soccer. I believe the 2 terms is enough to deter dictatorship.
I am ashamed to talk about Black Galaxies exit from the CHAN 2023. This tells of the state of the local league as Ghanaian fans prefer to watch or follow Bundesliga, Serie A, Premier League, La Liga, Eredivise etc. Stakeholders should put their heads together to stem the downfall of especially the local league. No wonder fans are not attending matches. The colts should be revived as soon as possible. Now or never.
with Jonathan Baah AnnobilElon Musk Is Considering a Shock Move to Buy Man United
Elon Musk has emerged as a surprise candidate to purchase Manchester United - with the deadline for bids drawing closer. Bids will have to be submitted by this Friday, with Musk considering making a move.
The tech-billionaire is believed to be monitoring United’s situation closelybut it would take a multi-billion pound bid to take over the Premier League club.
There have been suggestions that the club could be sold for £6billionwhich wouldn’t be an issue for Musk.
Musk completed his takeover of Twitter back in October 2022 for a reported £37.9bn.
Musk, who is the second-richest person in the world has been on Forbes› rich list for each of the last 10 years. With Musk in contention to purchase United, Sportsmail breaks down the details of the billionaire’s potential bid.
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FOOD AND RECIPES
Waakye is a meal that exhibits Ghanaians’ creative use of rice. The recipe is a merger of beans and rice and originally a Northern dish. However, it can now be found almost everywhere on the streets of Ghana. Eating Waakye will open the door to a range of Ghanaian tastes and flavours as the main dish is served with other sides such boiled eggs, fried plantain, garri (grated cassava), spaghetti and avocado.
Omo Tuo is another traditional Ghanaian food that shows how the population often reinvents the myriad ways of eating rice. It comprises soft boiled grains that are moulded into balls and served with a variety of soups.
This popular Ghanaian dish is a great family meal for festive season. When you see fish being grilled on the streets, it is most likely to be tilapia, a delicacy among Ghanaians, who spice then grill the succulent freshwater fish. It complements banku, a Southern mix of fermented corn and cassava dough, and very hot pepper, diced tomatoes and onions. Banku is one of the main dishes of the people who live by the Ghanaian coast
Northern Ghanaian food is dominated by the use of grains, herbs and meat as these are the main food products of the area. Tuo Zaafi is similar to banku, although it is quite soft and less sticky, and is made by cooking corn dough and adding a little cassava. What distinguishes Tuo Zaafi and makes it a popular meal nationwide is the nutritious and rare herbs used in making the accompanying soup, including dawadawa and ayoyo leaves.
Kenkey is another corn-based staple similar to banku, that is made by moulding fermented corn dough into balls and wrapping them around drying corn leaves, which are then boiled. The meal is served with hot pepper sauce, fried crabs, octopus or fish and is a delicacy of the people of Ghana.
Kelewele is an instant favourite among anyone who tries it, even those who aren’t big fans of peppery food. Usually sold as a snack or side dish all over the country, it is made by frying soft plantains that have been soaked in a medley of peppers, ginger and garlic. The aroma is crisp and strong, while the pleasant plantain adds some sweetness to the sour.
Fufu is a staple food across West Africa but in Ghana, it is made by pounding a mixture of boiled cassava and plantains into a soft sticky paste to go along with aromatic and spicy tomato soup. Fufu can also be found in Northern Ghana, although it is made with yam in this region.
