Racial Harassment 081413

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VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 13 • WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 14TH 2013

CARIBBEAN NEWS, EVENTS, HEALTH, LIFESTYLE & MORE

RACIAL HARASSMENT

HUMAN RIGHTS TRIBUNAL OF ONTARIO SLAMS DOUBLE DIAMOND ACRES TORONTO -- Major greenhouse operator, Double Diamond Acres, of Leamington Ontario, had a decision finding delivered by The Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario, which said that “Double Diamond Acres did in fact engage in racial harassment of a St. Lucian national who was employed there as a migrant farm worker” according to the Press Release.

A St. Lucian migrant farm worker, Adrian Monrose, was subjected to racist slurs by his employer during his second season working at the Double Diamond greenhouse according to Mon-

rose v. Double Diamond (citation: 2012 HRTO 1273).

Mr. Monrose employment was terminated when he tried to report and challenge this mistreatment, and immediately he was sent back to St. Lucia.

Eventually he returned to Canada and filed a Human Rights Complaint with the assistance of the Justicia for Migrant Workers group and human rights lawyer Shane Martinez.

Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario heard the matter this past March, and on July 23rd released a decision, “in

CINDY RAMKUMAR/TORONTO CARIBBEAN

which Vice Chair David Muir held that Mr. Monrose had indeed been subjected to racist abuse in the workplace”.

For lost wages Monrose was awarded $5,500, for damages to his feelings, dignity, and self-respect, he was awarded $3,000, and for violation of his right to be free from reprisal (e.g. the termination of his employment and repatriation to St. Lucia) he was awarded and $15,000. The first ever decision issued by the Tribunal in favour of a migrant farm worker was Monrose v. Double Diamond. ~ Continued On Page 2

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Double Diamond Acres - Racial harassment Cindy Ramkumar TC Reporter Continued From Page 1 -- Mr. Monrose was represented pro bono by Mr. Martinez, throughout the case. Mr. Martinez stated “This decision reaffirms the dignity and great worth of a hardworking man who left his family in St. Lucia to come to Canada as a migrant farm worker. Unfortunately, there are others whose stories are never told after they are repatriated and banned from the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program.

The Tribunal’s findings signal an urgent need for all levels of government to safeguard the human rights of migrant farm workers. One of the first steps towards doing this is to replace the outdated and unfair contracts that allow employers to commit abuses like those which occurred in this case.”

Since 1966 the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Program (SAWP) has been in operation. Temporary foreign workers employs over 40,000 migrants. Islands like Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Mexico, Montserrat, St. Kitts-Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago are all countries which participate in the SAWP. Under this program, employed migrant workers are tied to an employer, they do not have equal access to social entitlements. Migrant workers are also denied labour and social mobility. These migrant workers also do not have the ability to apply for permanent residency to Canada. The SAWP is one of several migration programs that comprise the Temporary Foreign Workers program.

A volunteer, political, non-profit collective Justicia for Migrant Workers (J4MW) consists of activists from communities across Canada. J4MW works with migrant workers, labour and community allies to advocate for the strengthening labour and social protections for all workers irrespective of status.

Warner warns PNM supporters against Rowley Alana,

22, Guyanese, is currently studying criminal justice.

When she’s not in school, Alana is more than busy focusing her efforts in the Athletic Centre, volunteering at the aboriginal Youth Centre, and working in a mentoring program.

Though she is extremely busy, Alana believes that it is important to spend time with family. “Our best qualities are bound in our families” Photo Courtesy: www.UniGirlCanada.com

TRINIDAD -- Members of the People’s National Movement (PNM) should be afraid of political leader Dr Keith Rowley, interim leader of the Independent Liberal Party (ILP) Jack Warner said yesterday. Before the start of an ILP victory motorcade in the Chaguanas West constituency, Warner was asked to comment on recent statements by PNM officials who dismissed claims that his newly-formed party is gaining a foothold in their Laventille stronghold.

He said: “If I was the PNM I would not be afraid of (losing) Laventille or Diego

Martin, my biggest fear would be Rowley.”

Warner said the ILP’s biggest asset is Dr Rowley. “Once he there we ain’t have no problem, no problem at all,” he added. Warner said he plans to continue to lobby for a by-election in San Fernando East, the seat held by Patrick Manning, the former prime minister, who has been ailing for some time.

He said Manning is an absentee MP who is failing to represent his constituents and the time is ripe for a by-election for the seat. (Trinidad Guardian)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

President Ramotar vows to get Amaila Falls hydro project back on track GUYANA -- President Donald Ramotar has expressed his disappointment at Sithe Global’s withdrawal from the Amaila Falls Hydro project as a result of a lack of political support, but vowed to do his utmost to get the project back on track.The full text of the President’s statement is as follows: “All Guyanese will be aware of the latest negative developments concerning the Amaila Falls project, and the intention of Sithe Global - the project’s developer - to withdraw from the project, because of a lack of political support from all parties in the National Assembly.”

“Yet even at this late hour, there is a small window of time for our country’s leaders to rise to the occasion and to make a decision on Amaila that is based on patriotism, not partisanship” “As President of this country, I will honour my duty to represent all Guyaneseand I will keep working to find a way forward as long as I believe that progress is still possible.

Early this morning, I spoke with the Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Granger, and urged him once again to join me in showing support for the Amaila Falls project, for our country’s future development and for the life opportunities of generations of Guyanese. I will try to continue this engagement with Mr. Granger in the hours ahead, and I told him that my door remains open, as it always has been.”

“However, the debate about Amaila is not helped by the volume of uninformed speculation that has been visible in recent weeks, despite two opportunities to debate the project in Parliament, and the public availability of information over many months.”

“Decisions on matters such as this - which are so important to our country’s future - should be based on facts, and not made as a result of speculation or political partisanship. All our political parties know that they have been equipped with the information they need to reach a decision on Amaila Falls.”

consumers will come down by at least 20% within two years of commercial operation of the hydro

“The facts are clear: Today, GPL incurs an electricity generating cost of US$19c per kw/h. With Amaila Falls Hydro, GPL’s cost of electricity can be dramatically reduced, to: * 11c per kw/h in the first twelve years, 40% less than today

* Last for at least a hundred years - providing affordable, reliable energy for generations to come”

* 5.6c per kw/h in the next eight years, 71% less than today * 1.8 c per kw/h for the following eighty years, 91% less than today As a result, the Amaila project can: * Reduce electricity bills for Guyanese consumers and businesses – average tariffs for

* Eliminate the need for Guyanese taxpayers to subsidise GPL. In 2012, the subsidy cost taxpayers over 6 billion dollars. This will no longer be needed, and the money can be invested in other important national priorities, such as roads, schools and hospitals * Greatly reduce Guyana’s dependence on foreign oil, and insulate the economy from the risk of rising oil prices. Unlike oil, the price of Amaila’s electricity will go down over the next twenty years. * Reduce black-outs. To avoid outages, the plant has: - Four individual units and full redundancy in the auxiliary systems - Two transmission lines, each capable of transmitting 100% of the plant’s output * Transform Guyana’s electricity sector from being fully oil-dependent to one built on clean, renewable energy. As the flagship of the Low Carbon Development Strategy, Amaila will enable reductions in Guyana’s greenhouse gases from electricity generation by approximately 90% * Support business growth in the processing and manufacturing industries, and create new jobs * Send a positive message to large global investors that Guyana is open for investment and set a new standard for the size of investment possible in Guyana * Be constructed without any debt being incurred by the citizens of Guyana. The plant will be fully paid for by the sale of electricity – at prices far cheaper than today * Be fully owned by the people of Guyana twenty years after operations begin

“As has been made clear over the last week, one political party has not yet come out in support of our people gaining access to these benefits”.

Yet in the coming hours and days, I hope that we will see a broadening spirit of patriotism and compassion for hardworking Guyanese.”

“If we see this spirit of patriotism and compassion emerge I will do my utmost as President to get this project back on track in the hours ahead” (Guyana Chronicle)

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Wednesday, August 14, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

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KKelly-Ann elly Ann BBaptiste aptiste ttests ests positive positive ve ffor or bbanned anned ddrug r ug TRINIDAD -- Sprinter Kelly-Ann Baptiste has failed a drug test and withdrawn from the IAAF World Championships in Moscow. She was one of two female athletes from T&T forced to withdraw from all events Saturday.

Manager of the team Dexter Voisin told the Sunday Guardian that circumstances led to the withdrawal of Baptiste and Semoy Hackett. There were also reports that another T&T sprinter, Aaron Armstrong, missed two mandatory drugs tests.

Baptiste was due to run in the first round of the 100m heats Saturday morning.

However, according to reports from Moscow, she tested positive for a banned substance and left the games. The banned substance involved was not identified. She was entered in the 100m, 200m and was part of T&T’s 4x100m relay team.

A cautious Voisin said: “During the course of this week, the Trinidad and Tobago officials were informed by the authorities that the suspension which had been lifted on Semoy Hackett had been reinstated and, therefore, she would not be eligible to run at these games. It has just happened and we will probably find out more later. “As for Kelly-Ann Baptiste, all I can say is that she has voluntarily decided not to compete and to withdraw and the NAAA will be issuing a comment on that in a short while.”

Pressed on the reason, Voisin stated, “At this time, I cannot say anymore than that...the NAAA will issue a release shortly.”

He said: “Trinidad and Tobago will still have a 4x100-metres relay team without Hackett and Baptiste, as there were six ladies brought to these games, and the mood of the camp is still positive as we seek to make Trinidad and Tobago proud.”

Baptiste, 26, was seen as a real contender at the World Championships. She is the third-fastest woman this year over 100m.

Baptiste, the 2011 world championship 100m bronze medallist, joins Tyson Gay, Asafa Powell, Veronica Campbell-Brown and Sherone

Simpson as high-profile athletes who have tested positive for banned substances.

In 2003, Baptiste was the first T&T female sprinter to win a medal in a global track meet when she ran 11.58 seconds to take bronze in the 100m at the 3rd IAAF World Youth Championships in Sherbrooke, Canada.

Less than a year later, she took 200m gold and 100m silver at the XVI Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Junior Track & Field Championships, in Veracruz, Mexico. She followed that up with fourth place in the 200m final at the 10th IAAF World Junior Championships, in Grosseto, running 23.46 and missing out on bronze by one-thousandth of a second.

She made her Olympic debut in Athens, running the lead-off leg in the 4x100m relay, but was unable to complete the baton exchange with Fana Ashby, and T&T exited the event in the first round. In 2005, Baptiste ran 11.39 and 23.35 to win the 100m and 200m races at the Carifta Games on her home island of Tobago.

She is ranked No.3 in the world in the 100 this year with a time of 10.83 seconds, trailing two-time Olympic champion Jamaican Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce (10.77) and Nigerian Blessing Okagbare (10.79). She was considered a medal threat in the 100. She is ranked No 7 in the world this year in the 200.

Baptiste’s absence makes FraserPryce and Okagbare even greater gold-and silver-medal favourites in tomorrow’s final. It also increases the chances of Americans Carmelita Jeter, the defending world champion coming off injury, English Gardner, Octavious Freeman and Alexandria Anderson. In an interview in the run up to the Moscow games, Baptiste said the only pressure she faced was from herself. “The pressure for me is to try to get better since my bronze medal in 2011.”

She said inconsistency led to her leaving London without a medal last year, but was quick to point out “my PRs (personal best times) in both 100m and 200m, which I hadn’t PR’d in years.” (Trinidad Guardian)

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Bolt regains 100m World title JAMAICA -- Running from lane six Sunday, double Olympic champion Usain St Leo Bolt regained his 100m World championship tile running 9.77 to win over Justin Gatlin (9.85) in Moscow Russia on Day 2 of the meet.

Third was Jamaican Nesta Carter (9.95).

Jamaicans finished third, fourth, h,, Kemar Bailey Cole (9.98) and fifth, Nickel kel ell Ashmeade also 9.98, ominous for the 4x100 000 relay record.

Two years ago Bolt lost the 100m m title to fellow Jamaican and training partner er Yohan Blake after false starting in the Deagu gu Championships. (Jamaican Observer)

Police seize 440 firearms, 5141 rounds since January JAMAICA -The police have reported that 440 firearms have been seized since the start of the year compared to 369 last year this time while the number of rounds seized increased to 5141, against approximately 3700 over the same period in 2012.

Commissioner of Police Owen Ellington while commending police officers Sunday, expressed concern at the instances of children being involved in crimes.

Making reference to the two latest cases where the Kingston Central Police listed a 16-year-old boy as wanted, and a

13-year-old boy arrested for possession of firearm and ammunition on the weekend, Ellington urged police personnel to “remain vigilant and to be aware of this trend.”

He warned the criminal element using children to commit crimes that they faced serious consequences.

Ellington also urged cops to “continue to maintain a presence on the nation’s streets and to take all lawful steps to prevent the movement of criminals and weapons around the country.” (Jamaican Observer)

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Oudit makes debut at ILP election launch TRINIDAD -- Lyndira Oudit sent out a call to political “fence sitters” on Saturday night, warning them that sitting on the fence could cause them to split. She said she wanted to remain whole, “so I resigned.” Oudit, an interim deputy political leader of the Independent Liberal Party (ILP), made her debut at the party’s local government election campaign launch at Auzonville, Tunapuna.

Just days after resigning as a member of the United National Congress (UNC) and Senate vice-president, she told ILP supporters that neither the People’s Partnership nor the People’s National Movement (PNM) were worthy of citizens’ votes. Oudit said the PNM’s victory in the THA elections earlier this year was not a vindication of the opposition party since they spent more time focusing on ILP interim leader Jack Warner than on relevant issues. She described members of the PP government as “ungrateful” for their treatment of Warner.

“It was Warner who put them in

office,” she said. Oudit said some parliamentarians had been boasting of newfound wealth obtained by corrupt means, multimillion-dollar contracts managed by family members, public officials getting new properties and businesses in Canada and India, and money transfers to foreign destinations, with “Panama being a preferred choice.”

Among those at the ILP launch was businessman Inshan Ishmael who told the T&T Guardian: “The ILP is the only option!”

He said the PP, which he once supported, stood for lack of representation and broken promises. ILP chairman Danny Montano opened the meeting by reiterating Warner’s claim that Laventille had gone green and introduced former UNC supporter Dane Francois to address the meeting. Francois said the ILP was the only alternative to the PP since in the “other party” there is “a mayor waiting to launch an insurrection.” (Trinidad Guardian)

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Millions missing at National Workers Union Jamaica JAMAICA -- An issue surrounding several million dollars of unaccounted-for spending by the National Workers’ Union (NWU) has emerged as the latest development in the unfolding story of a power struggle within the union.

Acting General Secretary Granville Valentine told the Jamaica Observer last week that an audit being conducted into the accounts of its white- collar affiliate, the Union of Clerical, Administrative and Supervisory Employees (UCASE), has shown that there is disbursement of approximately $30 million which is unaccounted for in terms of invoices or receivables.

“And that is for only one year, 2009/10, so far,” Valentine told the Sunday Observer. He said that he intends to do a full audit of the accounts and to get answers about how the funds were used.

However, former secretary/treasurer of UCASE, Robert Harris, has denied that the missing sum is anything new or has anything to do with UCASE. He said that a former accountant was dismissed in 2010, after an issue developed about missing funds. This followed an audit apparently commissioned by former general secretary Lloyd Goodleigh, when it became obvious that millions of dollars were being siphoned from the union’s account without receipts.

According to Harris, the accounts showed that there was some $120 million collected in dues from members, of which only about $90 million could be accounted for.

However, he said that, at that time, UCASE

did not have its own account until 2011 and all dues collected were paid into the NWU’s account and the general secretary had oversight over the use of the funds, until that system ended recently.

“It was one of the hardest fights that we had, because the NWU always wanted to maintain control over the UCASE funds,” said Harris, who was dismissed by Valentine on July 17, triggering a dispute over unauthorised dismissal.

Harris said, however, that it was his view the funds were siphoned off through the NWU’s accounts department. He said that the union fired the accountant, who has since claimed unfair dismissal, another issue involving former employees of the union now being conciliated at the ministry, or headed in that direction.

Harris said that the union engaged the Police Fraud Squad at the time, but they failed to find the trail of the missing funds.

“They couldn’t pinpoint how the money disappeared. There were four people who could sign the cheques. It is still being investigated,” Harris admitted. But he said that he couldn’t understand how Valentine connected the missing funds to the current issues.

He insisted that the current problem at the NWU/UCASE is Valentine’s push to assume control of both unions, at the expense of himself and NWU president Vincent Morrison.

Former general secretary Senator Navel Clarke, who had replaced Goodleigh in 2009, opted to retire in 2011.

But Valentine said that he decided to

proceed with the audit, when he learnt that, after he had instructed that all financial transactions involving UCASE must be routed through him, UCASE took out a new cheque book and was making payments from it using the signatures of Harris and Morrison, without his approval.

“Harris breached 11 accounting rules before I invited him to discuss the matter with me, and he refused,” Valentine said.

Harris was suspended indefinitely by Valentine on May 20 and eventually fired on July 17, after failing to attend meetings to discuss the issue.

But Harris said that he was instructed by the general executive council of UCASE that, since Valentine was refusing to pay the union’s outstanding debts, he should find a way to make the payments.

“They told me to do whatever is necessary to ensure that the debts are paid. I went to the bank and got a new cheque book,” Harris said.

He explained that the only sums paid from the new book were an outstanding debt of $180,000 owed to attorney-at-law Lord Gifford, for his work on behalf of employees of the Jamaica Public Service Company Limited (JPS), and $120,000 paid to the Medallion Hall Hotel in Kingston for hosting the union’s congress earlier this year.

Harris said that he was not worried by the audit, because there is no way it could show anything corrupt on his part.

“I still have the cheque book, and only those two payments have been made from it,” Harris pointed out.

He said that he has also asked the accounting firm Mair, Russell, Grant and Thornton to audit the UCASE accounts for the period since he assumed office as Secretary/ Treasurer in March 2011, after the departure of Senator Clarke, to the end of July 2013.

He said that audit will show that since his suspension, no funds have been lodged to the UCASE accounts, and no business has been transacted on its behalf.

Valentine insists that his efforts to streamline the unions’ accounting mechanism have been influenced by the loss of members over the last decade, due to closures.

“The loss of members at Air Jamaica and the bauxite companies has been a huge blow for the union. It has placed the union in a financial dilemma and we have to be looking members in new areas,” Valentine said.

He said that he froze the UCASE account because it is under investigation.

“There are no bills or receipts for money that has been withdrawn from the account, no receivables,” he said.

Senator Clarke said he couldn’t understand Valentine’s austerity argument.

“When I was general secretary, I appealed to the staff to hold tight, because we couldn’t afford to give them an increase. But as soon as he assumed office he gave everybody an increase, including himself,” Clarke said.

Clarke insisted that everything that Valentine has done since his appointment is in breach of the unions’ constitution, including unilaterally instructing an audit of the books.

(Jamaica Observer)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

JNBS Foundation…Leading with Act!on TORONTO -- For 139 years, the Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS) has contributed to the advancement of the Jamaican society by supporting some of the nation’s most critical development needs. Built on the concept of mutuality, with a mantra stating, “We’ll help you find a way,” JNBS has not only assisted working and middle class Jamaicans to realise their dreams of home ownership and financial independence; but, has also provided unparalleled financial and technical support to foster individual, community, rural and national development.

After several decades of corporate philanthropy, the JNBS Foundation was established as the charitable arm of Jamaica National in 1990. Twenty-two years later, it is recognised as an outstanding civic leader and one of the foremost private-sector Foundations in Jamaica. In 2011, the Foundation received the American Chamber of Commerce of Jamaica (AmCham) Jamaica Business & Civic Leadership Award for managing and executing the JN Group’s philanthropic efforts.

Since its inception, the Foundation has allocated more than J$350 million to development initiatives. Its work is far-reaching in that it empowers and galvanizes a sense of ownership within communities and garners support from Jamaicans at home, in the Diaspora and others around the world to invest in the future of the nation.

In collaboration with JN Group subsidiaries, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), international aid agencies, local funders and other private sector organisations, the Foundation identifies, develops and supports projects and programmes which focus on rural regeneration in the areas of Economic and Community Development; Arts, Culture and Heritage; Youth and Education; as well as, Health, Safety and Security.

As a major grant funder, the JNBS Foundation has provided financial support to countless community groups, non-governmental organisations, government and quasi-government agencies. The organisation worked to raise the bar for corporate social responsibility throughout the country and set an example for similar entities to follow through demonstrated results and outcomes.

The Foundation’s flagship projects vary in size and scope; and are tailored to meet the needs of targeted beneficiaries and include— The Source, the Resolution Project, Act!on Volunteer Groups and the JN Member Advisory Councils : ‘The Source,’ launched in 2007, is an innovative chain of community resource Centres, which provide access to technology, information and business services for residents in five underserved communities in the parishes of Kingston and St. Andrew, St. Ann, St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland.

Each Source Centre is equipped with business support, such as Internet Café, Wi-Fi hot spot, homework centre, reference library, as well as business incubation and meeting facilities. They are initially managed by the Foundation for two years then handed over to the community.

In support of youth expression through the arts, the Resolution Project equips and trains rural-based high school students in the art of photography, as a means of promoting youth leadership and advocacy. Conceptualised by JNBS General Manager, Earl Jarrett in 2004, the Resolution Project offers a creative avenue through

which young people are challenged to critically examine the issues affecting their respective communities, to tell intricate and nuanced stories of places and people that might otherwise have been invisible. Approximately 1000 students have participated in the programme since its inception.

In recognition of Jamaica’s 50th anniversary of political independence from Britain, the Foundation mounted a photo exhibition in London in July and August 2012.

The joint exhibition featured works of rural high school students in the Resolution Project and celebrated UK-Jamaican photographer, Neil Kenlock. The theme of the exhibition was ‘Interpretations: The Jamaican experience – A look into our journey over the last 50 years’. The first of its kind in the UK, the exhibition was well received by the community, with over 1,800 persons visiting over the four-week period.

Established in May 2009, the Jamaica Partnership for Education (JPE) supports national efforts to eradicate illiteracy by 2015 by facilitating partnerships with Jamaicans locally and in the Diaspora.

Formed through a collaboration between the JN Foundation and the United States Agency for International Development, funds for the project are raised through donations from JN Money Transfer customers in the United States of America, Canada, the Cayman Islands and the United Kingdom, who are encouraged by the popular remittance company to contribute to the improvement of education of Jamaican children.

The donations have been used by the JPE to purchase several state-of-the-art tools and other resources to improve students’ literacy and numeracy skills, which have to date impacted hundreds of students in more than 30 primary and junior high schools across Jamaica. The project also receives donations from customers of JN General Insurance Company Limited, which provides additional funds by matching the contributions of its customers.

The Foundation’s Act!on Jamaica Volunteer Corps is the first project of its kind, aimed at formalising and creating opportunities for citizens to give back. The project, launched in March 2012, fosters civic engagement and empowers Jamaicans to become active participants in solving some of the nation’s most persistent chal-

lenges. Through the project, the Foundation is seeking to expand the impact of existing NGOs, development agencies and community-based organisations by developing an all-island strategy for volunteerism.

Last year, more than 190 volunteers were mobilized to participate in development activities. These included: painting the Danny Williams School for the Deaf; distributing clothing and hygiene supplies to the homeless in Downtown Kingston; participating in children’s’ wellness camps in celebration of International Nelson Mandela Day; and hosting treats for the elderly alongside JN Group employees at the Golden Age Home in Kingston. The Corps places emphasis on establishing working partnerships to supplement and strengthen charitable efforts within communities. To date, the programme has a roster of some 300 volunteers who are desirous of giving back to their country.

The JN Member Advisory Councils (MAC), which operate in the building society’s 32 locations across the island, also encourage the participation of JN members and employees in the identification and selection of community projects to receive funding.

Since 2004, the JN MACs have provided opportunities for JN Members across the Society’s network of branches to actively participate in the development of their communities, by indentifying worthy community projects. Fifty-two community projects were undertaken in partnership with the JN Group Marketing, Sales and Promotion Department during the 2011/2012 financial year.

The work of the JNBS Foundation is closely aligned with the Government of Jamaica’s Vision 2030 and National Development Goals, and it continues to create sustainable impact on the Jamaican landscape through civic engagement, leadership and advocacy; as well as, capacity building, to unleash the tremendous human and social capital that exists across the island.

Working on-the-ground within communities, the JNBS Foundation draws inspiration from the citizens with whom it works, and from the thousands of other unsung heroes who quietly generate change.

The Jamaica National Building Society gives generously because its mutuality concept dictates that its subsidiaries, members, clients and employees reach out and inspire others to do the same.

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Large influx of tourists to Guyana continues over 300 Dutch visitors in country GUYANA -- DESTINATION Guyana continues to attract tourists from around the world, and has already recorded an 11.5% increase for the first half of the year, heading for a larger increase this year. The figure was further boosted on Thursday when the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) welcomed over 300 Dutch visitors from Suriname and Holland at Moleson Creek after they disembarked the Canawaima ferry that services the Guyana/Suriname route.

These tourists were scheduled to stay for three days. They said they were looking forward to experiencing the country’s rich cultural heritage; the many historical sites in Georgetown and the Essequibo islands, the country’s flora and fauna, the exotic cuisines, and entertainment, among others.

This trip was organised by the Garage Tour Company of Suriname, which has been collaborating with the Ministry of Tourism and has been bringing over 40 visitors in Guyana on a weekly basis.

GTA Director, Indranauth Haralsingh was at Moleson Creek, Region 6, to welcome the tourists. “This does not only bring economic development to Georgetown, but the Corentyne and then you can see that area being a hub for influx of tourists.” He also highlighted the resuscitation of the Number 63 beach on which a lot of work is being done to enhance its surroundings.

“We know what that means… this is the peak season for tourism,” he said.

The GTA will also be capturing crossings from the Lethem border, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) and the Ogle Airport in order to have a better picture of the number of visitors to Guyana.

“Immediately one can see the economic benefits and the spin offs,” Haralsingh pointed out, not only for Guyana, but Guyanese as a whole in terms of transportation, fuel, hotels and stores whose sales will be boosted.

“And so when they shop in George-

town, when they stay and dine and travel it is bringing a lot benefits to all Guyanese,” he said.

Haralsingh stated that GTA is looking forward to continue fostering the partnership between Guyana and Suriname so as to ensure there is a consistent flow of tourists in the country.

The tour company will also be bringing a large contingent on August 24 for the R Kelly Show at the Jamzone summer break international night.

Both government and the private sector have been collaborating to promote Destination Guyana, and Haralsingh said that this has resulted in many persons wanting to visit the country to experience what the South American country has to offer.

This is considered healthy for Guyana’s tourism as the sector continues to grow, as visitors continue to visit, and as Guyana continues to do well at the international and regional levels.

Additionally, GTA is working with Suriname at the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organisation (ACTO) level to establish a tourism manual among Guyana, Suriname and Brazil to promote cross- border and multi -destination tourism.

Suriname is close to Guyana, and is a key partner and through ACTO, a Caribbean tourism trail of which Suriname and Brazil are partners with Guyana has been established.

Meanwhile,the GTA also welcomed a team on that same day from three communities in Berbice who came from New York to conduct community works in their respective communities.

Visitor arrivals have been increasing significantly in Guyana over the last decade.

Last year, there was a recorded figure of over 175,000 visitors compared to 10 years ago when it was just 70,000-80,000.(GINA) (Guyana Chronicle)

How investment follows chess moves TRINIDAD -Sporting events such as the Caribbean Chess Carnival provide many benefits to players, coaches, clubs, parents, communities “and the list goes on.”

So said Gillian Benjamin, strategic marketing and sales manager of First Citizens Asset Management Ltd when she addressed the prize-giving ceremony of the tournament held at the Queen’s Park Oval last week.

Through the four-day international event, she noted, “we had a chance to meet people from differing backgrounds, cultures and perspectives but all with a common interest, a love for this game that is a true match of the minds, a sport for the intellectual.”

Benjamin said her company was proud to sponsor the Chess Carnival for the third consecutive year “as chess is a natural fit for First Citizens Asset Management.

“Just like this great game, asset management is about planning, developing strategies and taking calculated risks so as ways to achieving your goals.

“Moves are made with forethought and precision and while we may want an immediate result we may have to be patient

in order to achieve ultimate success,” she pointed out. “We too, as investment managers, must carefully analyse and assess the situation before making our moves.” The tournament, she said, had been an exciting and intense four days of competition with some surprises and some expected outcomes. “It has also been an opportunity to learn, grow and make a few new friends. We applaud the winners but we also recognize and congratulate all the players for their enthusiastic participation which must have contributed to the success of the tournament.”

She complimented the organizing committee of the T&T Chess Foundation for “an excellent job” in putting together thje tournament. She added: “We thank you for allowing First Citizens Asset Management to play a role in this event. It has been our pleasure to support the development of the youth of our nation through this sponsorship and we look forward to forging a long lasting relationship; with the T&T Chess Foundation.”

The tournament attracted 120 players from across the region, including Barbados, Cuba, Suriname, The Netherlands and Dominican Republic. (Trinidad Guardian)

14 Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Red Steel spikes Warriors

TORONTO CARIBBEAN TRINIDAD -- Sometimes all you need is a little intervention from a genius and things turn around for you. Brian Lara drives into the Queen’s Park Oval, tells the security guard on duty, “Go to the Red Steel dressing room and tell (Adrian) Barath and Sonnyboy (Darren Bravo) I want to see them.” The two youngsters came out, Lara asked for the lights at the indoor nets to be switched on and for 30 mins threw down balls at them, highlighting some of their problems and giving advice. Barath then goes out to bat and smashes 29 in a first-wicket partnership of 95 with star of the night Kevin O’Brien and the Red Steel, winless in this tournament, go on to record their first victory.

Darren Bravo, finding it impossible to get the ball away in this tournament so far, scores seven not out off four balls and his team ends on a good score of 159 for four. Then skipper Dwayne Bravo puts his bowling worries behind him to finish as the top bowler with 2/21 to lead his team to a narrow three-run victory and a valuable first two points. Local boy Lendl Simmons started off in rapid fashion with a six off first ball and raced to 18 before Fidel Edwards got his wicket. He was the leading batsman for the Warriors this tournament and once the head is off the Amazon is not as fearsome. Towards the end, James Franklyn banged an imperious 60 off 34 balls with five fours and three sixes but he could not revive the Amazon, which was undone by some good teamwork from the Red Steel.

With three overs to go and 46 runs needed, the visitors looked dead and buried. Franklyn, with some clean hitting,

and Chris Barnwell, with awesome power, brought it down to 20 off the final over bowled by Kevon Cooper. The medium pacer, of Rajasthan Royals fame, sent down three deliveries which passed the bat of Barnwell. A bye was taken of the third and a wide off the fourth. Franklyn smashed the fourth ball for six. Cooper responded with another wide before the next ball was sent racing to the fence for four and the Red Steel started the after party.

Earlier, Red Steel’s innings took flight from ball one as O’Brien pulled Chris Barnwell for six with the help of Stephen Jacobs at deep square leg, who parried it over the line.

The intentions of the Red Steel men were clear as they were given license to play free and that is exactly what they did. O’Brien dealt the Warriors some meaty blows, while Barath was turning the strike over nicely. Soon the Warriors were retreating as the Red Steel kept on hammering the attack. The first power play brought 43 runs and after 10 overs, the openers were still there, the score reading 83 without loss and the beverages tasting a lot better. As bottle after bottle of beer was consumed, an Irishman man was sparking up the party and the fete was on. A packed house with another 300 to 400 fans outside had forgotten the three losses so far, in this tournament.

The crowd cheered every run and O’Brien became an instant favourite among them. Barath left with the score on 95, edging behind for a 31-ball 29, but O’Brien and Taylor brought up the century in just 12.2 overs. O’Brien, with a century on the horizon, then smashed a powerful

drive to Hafeez, who took a sprawling catch at cover to send him back for 70. He faced just 47 balls, hitting two fours and six sixes. Taylor then took over and careened the bowling for an unbeaten 39 as the Red Steel ended on 159 for four.

SCOREBOARD Red Steel vs Amazon Warriors Red Steel inns K O’Brien c Hafeez b Barnwell*70 A Barath c Ramdin b Jacobs*29 R Taylor not out*39 N Pooran c Guptill b Santokie*3 DJ Bravo b Santokie*8 DM Bravo not out*7 Extras: 1lb, 2w*3 Total: for 4 wkts (20)*156 Fall of wkts: 95, 125, 128, 147.

Bowling: C Barnwell 3-0-22-1, K Santokie 4-0-25-2, M Hafeez 2-0-11-0, S Narine 4-0-35-0, J Franklyn 2-0-25-0, V Permaul 4-0-30-0, S Jacobs 1-0-10-1.

Amazon Warriors inns L Simmons c Pooran b Edwards*18 M Guptill c Benn b Johnson*6 M Hafeez c Pooran b Bravo*35 R Sarwan c Pooran b Bravo*4 J Franklyn not out*60 C Barnwell not out*23 Extras: b2, lb3, w5*10 Total for 4 wkts: (20)*156 Fall of wkts: 22, 41, 47, 78.

Bowling: F Edwards 4-0-47-1, D Johnson 4-0-25-1, K Cooper 4-0-35-0, S Benn 4-023-0, D Bravo 4-0-21-2.

Result: Red Steel won by 3 runs.

(Trinidad Guardian)

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Caribbean Pot: Classic coconut curry chicken with string beans Something that if fried correctly this turns into a tasty treat!

Chris De La Rosa Caribbean Cooking This is a delightful dish our mom would prepare whenever there was leftover chicken from the day before (usually on a Monday). She would curry the beans and the last 5 minutes or so add in the chicken pieces for the perfect accompaniment for boiled rice or hot roti off

the tawa. In this version I’ll do things a little different by doing the curry chicken base first, then we’ll add the trimmed beans and simmer it all in some coconut milk.

IIngredients 11.5 lbs chicken thighs 1 lb string beans 33/4 teaspoon salt 11/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon Caribbean green seasoning 2 tablespoon veg oil 11.5 tablespoon curry powder 11/4 teaspoon amchar massala (optional) 1 shallot 4 cloves garlic 5 birds eye pepper (aka bird pepper) 1 cup coconut milk I used a madras curry blend (made in tthe Caribbean). The chicken thighs were deboned, but feel free to use bonew iin (about 2lbs).. cook a little longer. Do NOT cut the peppers, simply remove the stems and use whole. We’ll get some flavor from them, without the raw heat.

Cut the chicken into 1 -2 inch pieces, wash and drain. Then season with the salt, black pepper, green seasoning and amchar massala (you can also use ground roasted geera – cumin) and allow to marinate for about 1 hour.

In the meantime you can trim the string beans (simply cut off the tips and cut into 2 inch pieces).

Heat the oil in a fairly large pan on med-high, then add the chopped shallot (you can also use onion) and garlic and turn the heat down to low. Cook this gently for about 3 minutes. Then add the curry powder and stir well. Cook for a further 3 minutes to get the raw curry taste out. It will go darker in colour and go a bit grainy.

Now add (do nott N dd the th peppers (d break them unless you want the heat) and cook for about 30 seconds, then add in the seasoned chicken and mix well to deglaze the pan and to coat the chicken pieces with the lovely curry base we created.

Turn the heat up to medium/ high and cook the chicken with the lid

uncovered for about 4-5 minutes. Then add the trimmed beans and coconut milk (remember to give it a good stir) and bring to a boil. Place the lid on the pan and cook for about 10 minutes (depending on how well you like your beans cooked) on a simmer (so lower

the heat).

Remove the lid and time to finish off the dish. You check for salt at this point (adjust accordingly) and you can also personalize the dish at this point.

Depending if you want gravy or not, you can now turn up the heat and burn off all the remaining liquid. OPTIONAL: Toss in a few cherry tomatoes, turn off the heat and place the lid back on. The residual heat will soften the tomatoes so it does not go to mush and really give the dish some colour.

This is a dish Tehya simply craves (me too) and it’s a great way to get children eating vegetables. But please try to not overcook the beans as it will take on a soggy texture and loose it’ss bbright it r gh ri ght flavor.

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Wednesday, August 14, 2013 17

Prevention of pneumonia in the elderly through yoga Geeta Maraj Yoga As we age our muscles tend to become weaker. This is especially the case when we are lacking a regular exercise routine.

Research continues to show that through exercise we are able to keep our mind and our muscles healthy.

In particular, strengthening exercises which help to prevent respiratory issues as we age, involve exercises of the muscles under the tongue. We are rarely aware that there are exercises which can help to strengthen the tongue and swallowing ability. Equally, we vaguely understand how the strength of the muscles under the tongue, prevents saliva or particles of food from entering our lungs. Since our lungs have no way of processing unwanted particles, it becomes ground for lung infections over time.

Pneumonia is a respiratory infection caused by a variety of bacteria, viruses or fungal contagions which settle in the air sacs of the lungs. These germs slowly overcome the body’s natural immunity

and are the leading causes of death in the elderly. Symptoms of pneumonia include, cough, yellow or green sputum, chest pain, feeling of weakness or malaise, shortness of breath, chills and fever.

When we strengthen the muscles under the tongue, our swallowing capacity remains strong and corrected. Issues with swallowing arise as we age, or have suffered from an illness, especially a stroke.

What we are rarely educated about is that unless we keep our muscles under the tongue toned, we develop additional health issues such as, pneumonia and asthma. Yoga has a series of exercises which aims at strengthening the facial and tongue muscles. These exercises are an absolute must for those who have suffered a stroke, or for seniors hoping to prevent future health issues.

Here are a few exercises which can help to prevent this issue: Breath exercise to strengthen and cleanse the lungs: Perform kapalabhati (rapid breath) exercises daily. This is done by first keeping the spine in an upright position. Keep the body as rigid as you can as you want the power of your lungs to move your body during this breathing exercise.

Inhale a regular breath and then exhale till your abdominal muscles contract tightly, pushing all the air out of your lungs. Then inhale to a three-quarter capacity filled

lung, and exhale that breath with an outburst through the nostrils. This type of breathing is similar to a loud sniff, as when blowing your nose. When you understand the contraction of your abdominal muscles on the out-breath, you can then increase this exhale up to 5 times per breath. Once you exhale forcefully, air automatically re-enters the lungs, so there is no need to physically inhale after each outburst of your breath during the exhale. This type of breathing helps to not only strengthen the lungs but cleanses any impurities stored in the lungs.

Exercises to strengthen the muscles of the tongue: Roll your tongue around the circumference of your teeth starting from the back left upper molar, pushing your tongue between the gum line and the cheek, till your tongue moves to the back right upper molar, then push your tongue to the bottom right molars and move your tongue all the way around to the left bottom molars. After you have completed this rotation, repeat this motion in the reverse direction. This action is equivalent to making large clockwise and anticlockwise circles with your tongue between the gum-line and inner cheek. Repeat up to 3 to 5 times in each direction as you develop more strength in your tongue muscles.

A second exercise would be circular tongue stretches: push your right cheek as far away from your teeth as you

can with your tongue. Then try to make clockwise and anticlockwise circles on the inside of your cheek while pushing your cheek away with your tongue. Begin by drawing one or two circles with your tongue and build up to a longer series as your muscles get stronger. You’ll find when you do this exercise that the bottom of your tongue will become very tender and achy. Do not be alarmed by this, as it is an indication that your muscles are strengthening.

Tongue pushes: push your tongue up between your front teeth and gum line under your nose. Hold for a few seconds, pulling your top lip in as you try at the same time to push your top lip away with your tongue. Hold for 5 seconds or longer.

Then repeat onto the bottom lip by pushing your tongue between the inside of the bottom lip and the gum line. At the same time as you are trying to push out the bottom lip with your tongue, pull in the bottom lip to create a resistance stretch for your tongue.

You can increase the length of hold as your tongue muscles become stronger.

Practicing such exercises will help to strengthen your tongue thereby preventing excessive coughing or choking as you swallow your saliva or food. While these exercises might be simple for some, it might be very difficult for others. The only reassurance is to endure and trust that in time these exercises will become easier.

18 Wednesday, August 14, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Six easy steps to avoid common genetically modified foods Awareness about the presence of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the food supply is at an all-time high throughout America, thanks in large part to the Proposition 37 ballot initiative in California. But many people are now asking the question, “If GMOs aren’t labeled, how can I know whether or not the foods I buy contain them?” To help you make the best effort at avoiding GMOs while shopping at the grocery store, here are six recommendations on what to look for and what to avoid.

1) Avoid purchasing foods that contain non-organic soy, corn, cottonseed or canola ingredients. Practically every processed food found in the “middle aisle” section of the grocery store contains some form of soy, corn, cottonseed, or canola, all crops of which are typically GMO if not certified organic. Everything from cookies and crackers to cereals and snack food items contain them, which means you will want to avoid them like the plague.

Common ingredients to specifically watch out for include some of the more obvious ones like high-fructose corn syrup, soybean oil, and canola oil. But several others you will want to be aware of include soy lecithin, an emulsifier added to all sorts of foods, including “health” foods, as well as soy protein, textured vegetable protein, mixed to-

copherols (vitamin E), and food starch. Unless certified organic, all of these ingredients are likely GMO. 2) If PLU code on fruits, vegetables starts with an “8,” avoid such produce. When shopping for fruits and vegetables, your first choice will want to be those labeled with a five-digit PLU that begins with a “9,” which indicates that it is certified organic. Produce items containing a four-digit PLU are considered “conventional,” which means they are not technically GMO, but may still contain pesticides and other toxic residues. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has created a helpful shopping guide for picking out safe produce.

Produce items you will want to specifically and always avoid are those bearing a five-digit PLU beginning with the number “8,” as these are GMOs. The vast majority of non-organic papaya, as well as several varieties of non-organic zucchini and squash are also of GM origin, so you will want to specifically purchase organic varieties of these foods as well. Genetic manipulators are also now working on a GM apple that does not turn brown, so watch out for any apple that stays unnaturally white when sliced or bruised.

3) Unless added sugar is specifically identified as “cane,” it likely comes from GM sugar beets. At least 90 percent of the

sugar beet crop grown in the U.S. is of GM origin, which means if any food product contains “sugar” or some other sugar derivative like glucose or sucrose, it is more than likely a GMO. Always look for “cane sugar,” or preferably “evaporated cane juice,” in order to avoid GM sugar. Raw agave nectar, pure stevia extract, and xylitol are also safe, nonGMO sugar and sugar substitutes.

4) If it contains artificial sweetener, it likely contains GMOs. The popular artificial sugar substitute aspartame, which goes by the trade names Equal, NutraSweet and AminoSweet, is produced using GM bacterial strains of E. coli, which means it, too, is a GMO. Anything containing aspartame is a no-no when it comes to food, and this useful Natural News infographic will help you discern many of the common food products that contain aspartame.

5) Watch out for ambiguous additives like xanthan gum, citric acid, maltodextrin, and other common GMO offenders.

Many common food texturizing agents, flavor enhancers, thickeners, sweeteners, and fortifiers are also derived from GMOs. Some of the more common offenders include ingredients like xanthan gum, citric acid, maltodextrin, lactic acid, dextrose, caramel color, baking powder, malt syrup, modified food starch, mono and diglycerides, sorbitol, stearic acid,

and triglycerides. The Institute for Responsible Technology (IRT) has created a helpful list of “invisible GM ingredients” that you can reference while shopping.

6) Avoid any dairy products that are non-organic, or that do not contain a “No rBGH” label. Unless a dairy product is specifically labeled as being certified organic, or as not containing the artificial growth hormone rBGH, which is sometimes labeled as rBST, it likely contains GMOs. Short for recombinant bovine growth hormone, rBGH is created using GMO E. coli just like aspartame, and is used in conventional cattle unless otherwise labeled.

This means that all non-organic yogurt, cheese, butter, milk, and ice cream that does not specifically bear a “No rBGH” label of some sort is likely made with GMOs. Nonorganic dairy cows are also likely fed GM feed, which means your best bet is to stick only with certified organic or non-GMO dairy products at all times.

The Non-GMO Project has also developed a certification program by which food manufacturers can uniformly label food products not made with GMOs. Many food products now bear the Non-GMO Project “Verified” label, which will help give you peace of mind that the food you are buying is clean, safe, and free of GMOs. (NaturalNews)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

The truth about heartburn Dr. Lydia Thurton ND BASc

Health Tips Every year Canadians spend over $650 million dollars controlling the searing pain of heartburn and its more serious counterpart gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD).

While many people suffer with almost daily bouts of burning chest pain and food that repeats on them, very few patients understand why this is happening or how to permanently rid themselves of this condition.

The biggest myth about acid reflux is that it is caused by excessive stomach acid production. In reality, the opposite is true.

When you swallow food, it travels down a tube called an esophagus and finds its way to your stomach. Between the stomach and your esophagus is a valve, called a sphincter.

This sphincter closes when the stomach is digesting, preventing the acidic contents of

your stomach from splashing upwards into your esophagus, which is painful.

The sphincter knows to close when there is a certain volume of acid in your stomach. Many people with chronic reflux actually have low stomach acid, and therefore the sphincter does not receive the signal to close and acid splashes up, making you regret that last extra spicy pound of chicken wings.

Most popular heartburn treatments like antacids and prescription proton pump inhibitors only serve to further reduce the acid in your stomach. This provides temporary relief but does not permanently solve the problem. The truth is that we need stomach acid. Long term use of these acid reducing medications prevents mineral absorption, leading to osteoporosis, encourages bacterial growth in our digestive tract and can increase our risk of pneumonia.

The trick to permanently solving heartburn is to avoid trigger foods in the short term. You will be able to eat them again once you are healed. Know your body and keep a diet diary to track your symptoms.

There are two digestive aids that facilitate the breakdown of food products, so that you do not have food sitting in your

stomach, causing reflux, for extended periods of time, betaine HCl and digestive enzymes.

Betaine HCl is available in many health food stores and it is actually a gentle form of stomach acid. By giving your body a little bit of hydrochloric acid, not only do people with low stomach acid digest more effectively, they also have better signaling to that lower esophageal sphincter to remain closed.

We have all heard the saying, “you are what you eat.” That’s only partly true. You are what you eat, digest and absorb. Digestive enzymes are a safe and effective way to prevent heartburn and encourage breakdown of our foods. Often people with GERD will complain of bloating and a feeling of food just sitting in their stomachs. Most enzymes do not start working until food has moved through the stomach, into the small intestine.

Taking an enzyme before eating means that these little helpers are present in the stomach before food even gets there. This prevents that food from lingering in the belly preventing acidic back splash. These supplements will make eating a lot more pleasurable.

Dental implants

Dr. Matthew Weekes BSC DDS MTh DMin

Dental

Dental implants are metal titanium cone shaped screw-like devices that are inserted into a prepared area in the bone at the crest of the ridge, at the site of a missing tooth.

If there is only a single tooth missing, one implant should be sufficient for the replacement. However if multiple teeth are missing, then multiple implants may be required. If all the conditions are met, implant- supported fabricated teeth provide the best restoration.

Alternative treatments are the placement of bridges or dentures.

The implants are the foundation for the artificial teeth that look and function like natural teeth. Implants however require near ideal conditions. There must be adequate healthy bone. However grafted bone is often added to the surgical site when there is insufficient bone.

Once the site has been thoroughly evaluated and approved for implant placement by the dentist, the first stage involves minor surgery for the placement of the implants after ”freezing “ the site by a local anesthetic. The procedure is usually painless with little or no after effects. In most cases it is desirable to wait for approximately 6 months while the bone painlessly remodels around the implant. This process is called osseus integration. The final stage is the fabrication of teeth that are firmly attached to the implants. The artificial teeth will look close to your natural teeth, and unlike dentures do not have to be removed at night.

The family workout

Monique Bartlett Fitness One of the biggest challenges when trying to adopt a healthier lifestyle is how to make sure you make enough time for yourself and your family. Usually most people make

them mutually exclusive but you don’t have to. Why not do something that involves the whole family so not only will you all be together but you will also be keeping healthy together as well.

No matter how many of you there are or how old each of you are there are always things you can do together. The easiest thing is to go for a walk. It’s easy, fun and something that you can all do. It can be done in almost any weather and is easy for everyone of most ability levels to do. You can also take it up a notch and go for a bike ride. Whether it’s on two wheels or three,

it’s still fun for the whole family.

If you want to take it up a notch, why not learn a sport together. It could be something like tennis, soccer, baseball or hockey. They’re fun, a little competitive and it’s exercise but doesn’t feel like it. It builds team spirit and sportsmanship and also builds patience and character. Who knows, you may even find a future professional athlete in your family.

Make no excuses. Just get out there and do it. Have some fun, build the family bond and stay fit and healthy together.

Wednesday, August 14, 2013 19

20 Wednesday, August 14, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Appraisals, reverse mortgages, consumer proposals

Stephen Mohammed Finance Real Estate - An appraisal is generally required when you are looking to purchase or refinance a home. A home appraisal is not the same thing as a home inspection.

An appraiser will focus mainly on the superficial attributes of the home, how it’s kept, how it looks, the general upkeep of the home and how it stacks up to the other homes in the area.

When buying a home, you may put an offer on the property and if accepted by the seller, the mortgage company will request an appraisal to confirm the value of the home. For example, if you offer $320,000.00 for a house listed for $330,000.00, the bank will send an appraiser to place a value on the property. If the appraisal comes back at a lower value than what was indicated in the offer, you have one of two options. You can opt out of the deal if there was a finance condition or you can put a bigger down payment to cover the difference.

Mortgage - Many Canadians are approaching retirement age without a significant amount of savings and need to generate some form of cash flow. Most of them own homes and can access the equity through a Canadian Home Income Plan (CHIP), better known as a reverse mort-

gage to help them through their golden years. Canadian homeowners older than fifty five years of age can get up to fifty percent of the home’s value without making any mortgage payments until they sell or die. The loan will be repaid from the proceeds of the sale of the home. The loan is at a higher interest than that of a traditional mortgage loan and at the end of each term, the mortgage resets to the current posted mortgage rate.

There is an option to pay the interest annually to reduce the amount owing as time elapses. Retirees sometimes choose the option of a reverse mortgage because they love their home and couldn’t picture themselves living anywhere else.

However, depending on the current market value it may be wise to sell your home and downsize rather than accumulating debt.

Finance - A consumer proposal is an alternative to a bankruptcy. It is a legal binding agreement that is administered by a bankruptcy trustee. The trustee will present an offer to pay creditors a percentage of your total unsecured debt owed, or extend the time you have to pay off the debts, or both.

The term of a consumer proposal cannot exceed five years. Payments are made through the trustee and the trustee uses that money to pay each of your creditors.

Most wage garnishments cease immediately, collection companies and creditors can no longer contact you for payment, interest stops accumulating on your accounts from the date you file and you are not in jeopardy of losing your house or other assets, as in bankruptcy.

Contact a trustee if you have any questions or if you require further information.

Regular home maintenance is the key Inspecting your home on a regular basis and following good maintenance practices are the best way to protect your investment in your home. Whether you take care of a few tasks at a time or several all at once, it is important to get into the habit of doing them. Establish a routine for yourself, and you will find the work is easy to accomplish and not very time-consuming. A regular schedule of seasonal maintenance can put a stop to the most common — and costly — problems, before they occur. If necessary, use a camera to take pictures of anything you might want to share with an expert for advice or to monitor or remind you of a situation later.

By following the information noted here, you will learn about protecting your investment and how to help keep your home a safe and healthy place to live.

If you do not feel comfortable performing some of the home maintenance tasks listed below, or do not have the necessary equipment, for example a ladder, you may want to consider hiring a qualified handyperson to help you.

Seasonal Home Maintenance Most home maintenance activities are seasonal. Fall is the time to get your home ready for the coming winter, which can be the most gruelling season for your home.

During winter months, it is important to follow routine maintenance procedures,

by checking your home carefully for any problems that may arise and taking corrective action as soon as possible. Spring is the time to assess winter damage, start repairs and prepare for warmer months. Over the summer, there are a number of indoor and outdoor maintenance tasks to look after, such as repairing walkways and steps, painting and checking your chimney and roof.

While most maintenance is seasonal, there are some things you should do on a frequent basis year-round: - Make sure air vents indoors and outdoors (intake, exhaust and forced air) are not blocked by snow or debris.

- Check and clean range hood filters on a monthly basis.

- Test ground fault circuit interrupter(s) on electrical outlets monthly by pushing the test button, which should then cause the reset button to pop up.

- If there are young children in the house, make sure electrical outlets are equipped with safety plugs.

- Regularly check the house for safety hazards, such as a loose handrail, lifting or buckling flooring, inoperative smoke detectors, and so on. (CMHC)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

407ETR Hoodwinks Thousands Tammy Flores 407ETR Matters Thousands of people have been hoodwinked by 407ETR. 407ETR made errors in their “Notice of Failure to Pay” and accordingly they should withdraw their section 22 notices with the Registrar, but they don’t and MTO interprets that to mean there is nothing they can do because of a 2005 Judgment. MTO has an obligation to firm up the language in the Act so that it complies with Consumer Laws. The 407 Act doesn’t trump, override or amend other laws unless it specifically says so (e.g., para 8 - Non-application of Expropriations Act).

The unwillingness for either the Ministry of Transportation or the Ministry of Consumer to intervene comes down to politics and jurisdiction and has me very concerned about the quality of service the public is receiving from the government.

According to a judgment made November 7th, 2005 #40 says “Section 9 of the Regulation requires 407 ETR to advise the Registrar at any time if a person ought not to have received a notice under Section 16 of the Act due to error, payment, or 407 ETR’s failure to comply with the Act and Regulation. At the same time, the owner must withdraw the S.22 notice and request that the Registrar “not take the actions he or she would otherwise be required to take under Subsection 22(4). By this section, the Lieutenant-Governor-in-Council has placed the onus on 407 ETR to withdraw an improper S.22 notice. This is consistent with the general scheme of plate denial and consistent with the intention of the Act that the mere delivery of the S. 22 notice triggers the Registrar’s duty to act. The Registrar must act unless the S. 22 notice

is withdrawn. This is consistent with the mandatory language of “shall” in S. 22(4).”

Herein lies the problem. Due to the atrocious language in this Judgment and the Act, MTO interprets this to mean that unless 407ETR withdraws, they will still act on Plate Denials. Is this fair? Absolutely not! As a result, 407ETR has been able to hoodwink thousands in the Province of Ontario. 407ETR had sympathy from this Judgment because they took 10 of the most flagrant abusers of this highway and plead a case. MTO has the responsibility to go back to court and demonstrate how 407ETR has flagrantly abused this atrocious language and as a result thousands of consumers have been ripped off!

Just look at the language in #27 & #28. “As noted above, the purpose of the Act was to privatize the operation of Highway 407 and, given its open-access character, to provide the owner an effective method of toll collection. The Legislature recognized that plate denial is a necessary feature of an open-access toll highway given the exceptionally large number of transactions, the small balances, and the cost of other means of debt collection. Contrary to the submissions of the Registrar, the Act places the onus on the user to dispute the obligation to pay, rather than on the owner to prove an entitlement to pay before delivering an invoice or a S.16 notice... the Act does not require the owner to satisfy the Registrar the user is accurately identified.”

This is an error in judgment and needs to be challenged, not only because it is against consumer laws, but because 407ETR gives you nothing to defend yourself. How can a consumer defend whether or not they have been on the highway when the operator will not provide any proof of being on the highway? The consumer is doomed! This atrocious language has allowed this company to financially exploit thousands.

Further, how can the “user” dispute the obligation to pay when he or she has been hoodwinked into following a 3

tiered internal process that is designed to catch you up? If you go onto 407ETR’s website, they tell you if you have a dispute call Customer Service, if that doesn’t work, you can speak with a Customer Advocate with the Office of the President and if that doesn’t work, then you can write into the Office of the Ombudsman. This process is all an internal process, in house of 407ETR, and is not the dispute process according to the act. #29 in the Judgment says “They place the onus for disputing payment and proving that the debt is not owed on the recipient of the S.16 Notice of Failure to Pay. The Act is explicit that a recipient of the notice is expected to pay the charge (or have his or her license plate renewal denied) even if a dispute is pending. If the dispute is successful, the Act requires 407 ETR to reimburse the recipient of the notice with interest. There is a right to appeal the determination of a dispute to an independent dispute arbitrator appointed by the Lieutenant-Governor-in-Council (S.18).

These sections of the Act provide a comprehensive code of dispute resolution and do not involve the Registrar.” Also, according to this Judgment, 407ETR is supposed to notify you of your right to independent arbitration, but they do not.

The problem is that 407ETR has informed thousands to follow their internal process and as a result, consumers have not been informed of their rights according to the prescribed dispute process in the act. When people realize that they’ve been hoodwinked and try to follow the process according to the 407Act and file their “Notice of Dispute” and start to inquire about independent arbitrators, 407ETR tells them you have missed your window of opportunity and so they languish in Plate Denial with no way of getting out. This is completely unfair, against Consumer Laws and must be addressed by the Province.

Please sign and share the petition http://tinyurl.com/ 407petition

Secure, convenient 10-year ePassport available now CALGARY -- Canada’s new and more secure 10-year ePassport is now available to Canadians, Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney announced today.

“The new, 10-year ePassport provides more convenience for Canadians, and facilitates safe, secure travel which, in turn, helps create jobs, growth and long-term prosperity for Canadians,” said Minister Kenney. “The Canadian passport is not only a privilege of citizenship, but a reflection of the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.” ePassports are the international norm in travel documents. They contain technologically-advanced features, including an embedded electronic chip, to prevent fraud. The chip stores the same personal information as that which is recorded on the second page of the passport (except for the signature) as well as a photo and a digital security feature that proves that the passport was issued by the Government of Canada.

To combat fraud, once the personal information is stored on the chip, it cannot be modified without invalidating the passport.

The new ePassport features iconic images that celebrate our history and culture, such as: Robert Harris’s painting of the Fathers of Confederation; a depiction of the last spike completing the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1885; and a picture of Pier 21 in Halifax - one of the most significant ports of entry for newly-arrived immigrants between 1928 and 1971, and now a National Historic Site.

At $160, a 10-year passport provides better value for money for Canadians, as it costs less per year than the previous cost of a 5-year passport. It also means that Canadians will not have to renew their passports as frequently.

In addition, the new fee structure comes into effect today which will enable the government to continue providing its citizens with one of the world’s most secure and internationally respected passports in a

timely manner.

Also, effective today Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) assumes primary responsibility for Passport Canada, which had previously been part of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. This sensible move is in line with the duties CIC already performs, such as admitting permanents residents, promoting the rights and responsibilities of citizenship, and determining Canadian citizenship.

Canadians will not experience an interruption of services. They will be able to continue accessing passport services through all of the same service locations currently available in Canada through the existing network of 144 Service Canada Centres, 56 Canada Post intake locations, and 34 passport offices across the country. Service Canada will assume responsibility for passport operations, and, over time, services will expand to more Service Canada Centres and Canadians will ultimately be able to apply for a passport online. (CIC)

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Shurwayne Winchester, a versatile entertainer for all seasons Shurwayne’s journey to stardom began at a very tender age, while still in the care of his parents on the island of Tobago. At the age of 12, he entered the competition arena, consistently making yearly contributions that impressed and propelled him to advanced stages. Throughout his career he gathered experience and obtained the required understanding of the music business through his affiliations with a number of bands, most notably, that of Caribbean Traffic Jam, of which he quickly became frontline singer. In 2004, Shurwayne won the Road March title with”The Band Coming” a feat he repeated in 2005 with the infectiously up-tempo track, “Dead or Alive,” accomplishing that which many in the industry only dream of.

Dedication and hard work, the attributes that make Shurwayne Winchester who he is, as a successful artiste, proved to aid his double triumph yet again in 2006 when he copped both the Power and Groovy Soca Monarchs with “Can’t Wait,” and “Don’t Stop” respectively. By November 2008, Shurwayne had a vision for his music and decided to forge his own destiny by forming his very own band, Y.O.U.- Yes One Unit. From 2008-2011, Shurwayne &

Y.O.U. performed in Canada, Miami, Toronto, Berlin, Philadelphia and several islands in the Caribbean chain. Shurwayne’s confidence was well-founded and well rewarded as he again copped the Groovy Monarch title in 2010.

As his successes in the soca arena increased, Shurwayne made a conscious decision to engage in musical fusion through experimentation with different genres of music. A successful collaboration in December 2011 with Philomena led to his first ever parang called “When Christmas Come”. For the 2012 season, Shurwayne recorded a number of songs including a remix of Jiggle It with Bajan artiste Inches and Nobody Badda than We with Jamaican dancehall singer Popcaan. Wine on It, his wildly popular hit is credited as a crossover with dancehall and soca while the infectious Wining Addiction incorporated a melodious Tobago jig. Other popular releases included Work It, Harder, We Love and Hands Up. Post Carnival 2012, Shurwayne has been kept busy with projects including recording Winey Winey with Jamaican dancehall star Mr. Vegas and shooting the video for Fire in Me his number one hit with St. Lucia’s soca star Q’pid. Most notable

was his engagement as the sole soca artiste on the billing for Caribbean Fashion Week in Jamaica, a line-up that also included R&B SINGER Brian McNight and Grammy awardee Estelle. During the upcoming summer, he is billed to perform at the Ipswich Festival in London and the Ottawa Riddims Festival in addition to appearances in St. John’s, Antigua and Tortola.

Mr. Vegas, undoubtedly, has the winning formula Clifford Smith, also known as Mr. Vegas, developed a passion for music at an early age. But it was the moment he voiced a track on the Playground Riddim for producer Jeremy Harding, despite a serious injury to his jaw, which sealed his fate in the business. Unfazed by the injury and ambitious, Mr. Vegas laid his one-of-a-kind vocals and created Nike Air - an instant hit!

Ever since Mr. Vegas catapulted his way to the top in 1997 with Nike Air and the follow-up smash Heads High, the singjay has never looked back. Heads High, with its lyrically creative message of resistance, found instant favour with the females. It received heavy rotation on mainstream media outlets, including MTV, and even secured a spot on the Billboard charts for quite a few weeks.

With the success of the single, a debut album of the same name was a natural next step. Released on the Greensleeves label, the Heads High album made the world stand up and take notice. With hit songs like Jacket, Sweet Pineapple and

Everywhere I Go, Heads High was a chart topper. Not surprisingly, the singjay earned a coveted British Music of Black Origin (MOBO) award for Best Reggae Artiste, a clear indication that his fan base had expanded way beyond America and the Caribbean.

Skillfully riding a wave of success, the entertainer confidently affirmed his position as reggae/dancehall’s risen star with his sophomore Greensleeves release, Damn Right, which contained a myriad of favourites including Girls Time, She’s A Ho and the monster hit Hot Gal Today on which he collaborated with Sean Paul.

Incidentally, Hot Gal Today was voted one of the all time best collaborations by Vibe Magazine. With his move to the Los Angeles-based independent label, Delicious Vinyl, Mr. Vegas released his third full-length offering, Pull Up. The title track entered the Billboard Chart and again thrusted Vegas to international status.

Throughout the years, Vegas has continued to release well-crafted singles

which have ensured his status as one of the most consistent and in-demand acts in the business. Tek Wey Yuhself, Hot Wuk and Nuh Friend From Dem, from his 2007 Hot It Up album were chart toppers, with Hot Wuk dominating all the major American, Caribbean and European charts. The single even made an entrance on Billboard’s Hot R&B/ Hip Hop Singles chart. His 2008 Daggering packed a wallop in the dancehall, and in true Vegas style, come 2009 and he again demonstrates his versatility with the gospel-flavoured I Am Blessed and Up Deh. This singjay has appeared on all of the Reggae industry’s major shows, including Guinness Sting, Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest, Fully Loaded and Reggae Sunsplash. In additional to blasting his way through the Caribbean, Mr. Vegas has also thrilled fans in Europe and the U.S. and Japan with highly rated performances. (ReggaeVille)

You are the teacher of the moment!

Jim Pagiamtzis Business Development In a recent Klemmer session that I attended the speaker made a statement numerous times during the session “they are teachers of the moment”. These were great moments that inspired and encouraged the at-

tendees to listen to fellow audience members share a powerful statement.

As we go through our journey of success, we all share and speak great words of encouragement throughout our day. The question we should ask; does anyone else notice that what we say is worth listening to?

In the past year I have taken the “teacher of the moment” phrase and applied it to my life.

At a recent speaking engagement an audience member asked a question that I couldn’t answer. It so happened that another audience had the answer and shared

it!

I stated very quickly to the audience that she was the “teacher of the moment” and everyone agreed either by clapping or with a smile.

It’s a great sign of acknowledgement and respect to honor someone who is sharing a key insight or experience and to make a statement that will make them feel important and show everyone that they can participate.

As you continue on your journey to success, keep your ears open and when you hear someone share something that’s awesome say “teacher of the moment”

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

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Be Successful with Video Blogging Over 6 billion hours of video is watched each month!

Julie Rambali Business Development Video blogging has existed on the web long before Youtube and now Youtube has over 1 billion unique users that visit each month.

Over 6 billion hours of videos are watched each month and that’s 50% more than last year. I’m sure you’ve watched a video on Youtube and felt an instant sense of opportunity for marketing your business. Even though the idea of video blogging itself isn’t new, the actual endeavor is still novel to many people.

A video blog or video log is short-

ened to vlog and is a form of blog for which the medium is video and is a form of web television. Video blogging requires a live person to be recorded in order to create video entries. Hiring professionals can get costly however, if you create your own, it can be absolutely free. All that’s required is your smartphone camera. You can purchase inexpensive HD handheld cameras and they’re easier to use than ever before. Smartphones are convenient because they’re always on you and the quality of smartphone video cameras is excellent these days.

Online reality is replacing actual reality in every aspect of our lives. Having your face behind your virtual brand is vital for people to feel closer to you. It helps you build connections with your potential customers like no other blogging format. The close second is perhaps audio.

It’s a very effective way of introducing your products/services. Simply record yourself describing your products/ services. Most smartphones come with simple video editing tools and allows you to publish your videos directly to Youtube for the rest of the world and your subscribers to see.

When recording, make sure you’re in a well lit room or outdoors. I prefer outdoors because with the natural sunlight, you don’t have to worry about awkward indoor lighting. Use your backyard or local park.

Take a friend or family member to help you record or stretch your arm out and record yourself without trying to laugh. It will take a few tries but you’ll eventually get the hang of it. Keep your hand still to avoid a shaky video which can annoy people. Create videos less than 3 minutes each so you don’t lose anyone’s attention. Keep your

content fresh by talking about new information from your industry or your specials and upcoming events. If you have products, pan your camera across your products and show the variety of items you have to offer.

This form of internet marketing has endless possibilities of what you can feature and that’s what makes it so powerful. Simply start talking and show how passionate you are about your products/services and industry. Don’t worry about what others think of you! You should be free to just be yourself and no one should judge you based on your convictions. We are all different and that’s what makes this world such a beautiful place.

Freedom comes to video. Camera costs go down. The web carries video with the same fluidity as text. This is the true democratization of a real free press and I think it’s very positive for us all.

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Your Horoscope - August 14th 2013 Aries Horoscope (March 21-April 20): You’ll see better progress from here as Mercury makes its way through your vitality and creative sector. The sun, already shining in this area, boosts matters to do with your love life, play, children, and career. Saturday/Sunday, the balancing act comes under added pressure. On Monday, get down to business. Tuesday through Thursday, ideas, plans, and conversations generate well.

Taurus Horoscope (April 21-May 21): Let family have the best of you, and while you’re at it, don’t forget to gift yourself with your own light source. As Mercury joins the sun in Leo, it’s time to seek more reward, enjoy more, and struggle less. Saturday brings a shift of momentum or focus. Talks, ambitions, plans, and projects should move right along, especially on Tuesday/Wednesday.

Gemini Horoscope (May 23-June 20): You’ll get around even more now as Mercury treks through Leo. As well, you should get more enjoyment out of your visits, recreations, and pet projects. Saturday through Monday can be a time to broach a serious topic or feel your way along a decision, purchase, or commitment. Tuesday through next Thursday, you should find it falls into place without effort.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21-July 20): Along with the sun, Mercury’s advance into Leo sees you turn a personal corner. Past the weekend, your financial and romantic prospects move into an upswing. Tuesday through next Thursday should prove to be lucrative and smooth-running days, so put your time to good use while the stars go easy on you.

Positive strides can be made.

Leo Horoscope (July 21Aug. 22): “Have to” or “want to” getting to you? While Jupiter keeps a significant background prod going strong, look to Mercury’s advance into Leo to send you and/or life into action, especially past Sunday/Monday, when you’ll surpass the resistance, block, or final detail. Tuesday through Thursday are your most opportune days for talks, transactions, travel, and getting a move on.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug. 23Sept. 22): It’s time to focus more on your own interests and sacrifice less of yourself for the sake of another. After all, you deserve the best too. Although more keeps desire going strong, quality rather than quantity is where you’ll gain the greatest satisfaction. Having said that, Tuesday through Thursday, aim to soak it in and up.

Libra Horoscope (Sept. 23Oct. 22): You’ll start to see more results for your efforts now. Mercury’s advance into Leo launches a good few weeks to play and socialize more. As of Sunday, you can turn a corner with someone or something, perhaps suddenly. The transiting moon in Libra boosts you with more up and at ’em, too. Mid week, synchronicity and simpatico reach a peak.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Does an important conversation need to take place or an official step need to be taken? By Sunday/ Monday, the stars will clear the rocks out of the way and help you get a better handle on it all. By Tuesday/Wednesday, you should find yourself on an especially productive and smooth sail. Your instincts are likely to be right on the money.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov. 22-Dec. 20): Starting Thursday, travel and pleasure pursuits gain an extra boost from Mercury in Leo. A future prospect shows greater promise now too. Sunday/Monday is shaping or confirming in some definitive way. As of Tuesday, you’ll find it all smoothes right out. Wednesday and Thursday next week, the Sagittarius moon boosts your vitality, creativity, and opportunity. Mercury trine Uranus keeps a good buzz going strong.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec. 21-Jan. 20): Can’t keep going the same way? Doing well, but could do better?

Mercury in Leo makes you even more aware of the fact that it’s time to set new goals for yourself. An intimate relationship is also up for review. Sunday/Monday, it’s time for a dialogue with yourself or another. Tuesday/Wednesday, there’s a good flow and exchange.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan. 21-Feb. 18): How about less concentration on work and more on play and reward?

Your social life gains a boost from Mercury’s advance into Leo. As of Sunday/Monday, you should find the pressure lifts or a dilemma is resolving itself.

Tuesday/Wednesday puts you in the right place and time. Watch for opportunity or a good score.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb. 18-March 20): On Thursday/Friday, you’re likely to do more or get further than you planned. Convenience is worth the extra cost on Saturday. Sunday/ Monday brings you to a finish line. Tuesday through next Thursday puts you into a good swing. It’s an optimal time to get moving on plans, ambitions, paperwork, or legal matters. Wednesday can bring an answer or news.

CANADA: 1-800-565-2632

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How to be a money detective “More money” - one of the first things always expressed as a goal

Tina Dietz Business Development “More money” is one of the first things I hear in my coaching sessions and classes when I ask “what are your goals?” It almost goes without saying that in business we want to bring in more income, and dealing with money also is one of the areas that people are so resistant to facing. The majority of

the time it’s easier for people to share about their families, their ailments, or even their sex life than it is to have a straightforward conversation about money!

Whether we like it or not, we have a long history with money and we also have a relationship with money.

No matter the state of that relationship though, you can be a “money detective” and begin to investigate where your relationship with money is strong and where you have challenges. Just like any other relationship, you can nurture and improve how you interact with money no matter where you are right now, and the first step is simply allowing yourself to “go there.”

We use money as an excuse to do or not do things all the time. It’s a reason to stop ourselves in our businesses, with our health, our enjoyment of life, and even an excuse to feel certain ways—for example, “if I just was debt-free, I could relax.” But, as you’ve probably heard before…it’s never really about the money. If money were a person, what would your relationship be like? Would money want to hang around with you, or are you always saying nasty things behind money’s back? If you want to start to uncover what your relationship is really like, then write a letter to money and say everything you’ve ever wanted to say and clear the air!

There are some very common “red flags” that let you know that your relationship with money is impacting you and could use some attention, and these are great places to look (with compassion please!) at yourself. These can include having chronic debt, staying stuck in toxic relationships, putting your dreams on hold, not allowing support, being jealous or resentful of what others have, and self-sabotaging behaviors.

Shifting our relationship with money begins with just getting present to “what is so.” These are the clues to unlocking our relationship with money and unraveling what might, up until now, have seemed like a mystery.