The Colours of Carnival Paint the Royal Ontario Museum 022713

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VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 2 • WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27TH 2013

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The Colors of Carnival Paint the Royal Ontario Museum The history of Carnival showcased with Brian MacFarlane EMILY SINGH/TORONTO CARIBBEAN

TORONTO -- The festivities and celebration of Carnival and mas may be over in Trinidad, but not before its vibrancy, beauty and art swept its way through the Royal Ontario Museum. Located on Queens Park in downtown Toronto, the Royal Ontario Museum opened the doors of the Eaton Theatre and hosted a symposium on Saturday entitled “Exploring the Cultural Identity of Mas”. The aim of this event was to explore and trace the historical, cultural and artistic elements of Carnival not only in Trinidad but worldwide. The symposium wraps up the final two days of the Royal Ontario Museums Carnival: from Emancipation to Celebration

exhibit, which showcases the history, and essence of Carnival.

The keynote speaker and man responsible for the elaborate costumes and designs of the exclusive exhibit was none other than renowned Carnival artist Brian MacFarlane, who recently won the title of band of the year as well as both the King and Queen of the band 2013 titles.

“I just think it’s wonderful because it’s bringing people together through the movement of carnival to understand each other better as people, among nations and countries and I think it’s just an exciting time” said MacFarlane when asked why

bring Carnival to the ROM. MacFarlane developed his love and passion for the artistry of Carnival at the tender age of 15. However, his numerous band title successes did not come without his fair share of trials and tribulations. Growing up in Trinidad as a young child, MacFarlane suffered from severe allergies and dyslexia, which greatly hindered his progression in school.

MacFarlane also confirmed in front of the crowd on Saturday that Carnival 2013 was indeed his last year in the competition and “Joy- The Finale “was his final band.

Continued On Page 2

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

World renowned Brian MacFarlane announces retirement Emily Singh TC Reporter Continued From Page 1 -- “I made up my mind and I will bow out this year”.

“I remember Monday and Tuesday trying to be like a lion, and as always I have certain people to assist me,” said MacFar- “I just came back from Trinidad and the lane. amazing amounts of tourists from all over The symposium also shed light the world that I was there were absolutely upon the powerful signifispectacular. Of course many cance behind playing mas “I made up my the great majority came from through a speech that was Caribbean diaspora, mind and I will the given by Gena Chang-Campmany people coming with bell, a Caribbean studies bow out this year” their experiences of diasporteacher at both York Univeric carnivals and experiencsity and Ryerson. As a Caring the mother of all carnivals. This is our nival enthusiast Gena shared her thoughts Mecca, this is our hajh, this is our spiritual regarding her recent trip to Trinidad to play journey back home to the source.” mas.

Ramesh: Kamla must resign

Leanne, AKA Miss Carnival Kicks, is a half Trinidadian and half Canadian model from Markham, ON. - A former Carib101 Calendar girl, Leanne currently works as a sales rep in Toronto.

Her portfolio spans from print, runway, photoshoots and Caribana Mas Band Launches. Leanne loves travelling, shopping, cooking and spending time with family and friends.

TRINIDAD (TG) -- Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar must resign immediately because she is not being honest says former attorney general Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj SC. Maharaj, in an interview yesterday, claimed from various media reports it was clear the prime minister had knowledge of the New Flying Squad Unit but continued to distance herself from it.

He said it must be recognised the Constitution prohibited a government minister from appointing anyone to do police work or using their position to influence in the appointment, suspension or dismissal of police officers. “So where the prime minister or the Cabinet or a minister of government are involved in creating a police squad or a police unit it leads to a serious violation of the Constitution.

“So where we have in this case an allegation and in this case the prime minister seems to be aware of it, decided to create a squad of the Police Service unknowing to

the police commissioner, that goes to the root of the Constitution,” Maharaj said. He added this was also a serious threat to the rule of law. National Security Minister Jack Warner was supposed to make a full statement in Parliament last Friday about the existence of the revamped unit but was pre-empted by PersadBissessar.

Speaking at Piarco International Airport on her return from Haiti on Thursday night, the prime minister said she asked the minister to provide a “complete report” to her and to the National Security Council (NSC) on the issue. Persad-Bissessar said pending that report, it would be inappropriate for Warner to make any statement on the issue.

On plans again mentioned by PersadBissessar to precept soldiers with full powers as that of police officers, Maharaj said, “What then happens is the army being the direction of the political directorate would be able to direct police officers under the guise of army members to do police operational work.”

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

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President impressed with large Mash bands Inaugural Masharama a huge success brought a different flair GUYANA (GC) -- In the spirit of the countrywide celebrations in commemoration of Guyana’s 43rd Republic Anniversary, the Tourism Ministry, determined to diversify and spice-up the celebrations, accomplished this feat by pulling off the first-ever ‘Masharama’ street fete Friday evening.

The event conceptualised to be different as part of a plan to attract more persons to become involved in Mashramani celebrations, more than delivered, as revellers experienced a dramatically different revelry of a fusion of Guyanese and Brazilian entertainment.

The event saw revellers, including Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce (acting) Irfaan Ali and Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Robert Persaud, lining Brickdam from between Camp Street to Austin Place and enjoying a mixture of Guyanese and Brazilian music.

A 20-member Brazilian Samba Band was brought in especially for the event as part of the collaboration between the Tourism Ministry and the Brazilian embassy.

The music was unique and well received - a change from the usual Caribbean and Guyanese sounds.

Not to be undone, the local artistes were outstanding and had the crowd going wild with their performances. Adrian Dutchin, three-time winner of the Soca Monarch title, and third place winner this year, more than delivered with an energetic performance of “Jook”, getting the crowd involved to the extent that two of the revellers joined him on stage to display their techniques. Kwesi Edmondson also put on a good performance, delivering his rendition of “Same thing” which copped the runnerup prize in the Soca monarch competition.

There were performances also by Carib Soca Monarch Winner, Jomo Primo.

GUYANA (GC) -- From the few costume bands that President Donald Ramotar was able to view parading around the National Park on Mash Day, he was impressed with those in the large category, but found it difficult to pick a favourite.

At approximately 15:30 hrs President Ramotar dropped in at the venue when the atmosphere was heating up with the parade of costume bands making their entrance before a panel of judges and a packed arena.

He witnessed 10 out of the 30 costume bands that were on their final lap on a route that included Church and Irving Streets into Thomas Lands and culminating at the National Park during Guyana’s 43rd Republic anniversary celebration of Mashramani.

Those that he saw were Regions 3, 4, 5, 6 and 10, all of which showcased Guyana’s proud, diverse culture and wealth of natural resources and a performance by the popular masquerade band “Fire in the Land”.

The Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce made its way in with costumes representing some of Guyana’s exotic wildlife such as the Canje Pheasant, the Cock of the Rock, the Black Caiman and the Jaguar.

Other costumes depicted the country’s rich and fresh rivers and streams and other images that are prominent features identifying Guyana such as the Stabroek Market, Red House, Parliament Buildings, and the National Library.

The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport had a contingent of 300 and under the auspices of its subject Minister Dr. Frank Anthony,

carried the theme, “Slavery and Indentureship to Freedom.”

Its costumes portrayed a fusion of Guyana’s rich cultural heritage in keeping with three significant anniversaries for Guyanese of African, East Indian and Chinese ancestry. They include the 250 years of the Berbice Slave Rebellion, 175 years of the arrival of East Indian indentured immigrants and the 160 years since the arrival of Chinese immigrants.

The Ministry of Education came out with its king and queen costumes symbolising its commitment to eliminate illiteracy from society and produce good citizens for nationhood. The costume band was accompanied by “Fireworks”.

The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) had their revellers decked in the union’s colours blue, red, gold, silver and white and carrying umbrellas befitting for their theme “Umbrella of Unity.” The union is celebrating its 90th year in existence and sought to showcase that as well.

Having participated in a live interview with well- known journalist Bobby Vieira which was televised live on National Communications Network (NCN) and witnessed the kaleidoscope of colourful floats, President Ramotar said in an invited comment that “everyone seems to be enjoying themselves a lot.”

Having been satisfied with the parade, President Ramotar made his way to the streets on Vlissengen Road where he mingled with celebrants who were out in their thousands.

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Police take back Spanish Town - Murders down, gangs in retreat Residents happy, want police to stay in Spanish Town communities JAMAICA (JO) -- The p olice force’s re- what they have termed a ‘static patrol’ – an since the police intervention, the only disturlentless pushback against the two violent armoured personnel carrier and a police car bances in that section of Spanish Town have been domestic disputes. criminal gangs that for years turned Span- permanently posted — on the borderline.

Police posts have been set up in “We have posted police at critiish Town and its environs into killing fields is finally reaping dividends, as murders and cal points and it has reaped positive results. both communities and the results, the conshootings there have dropped significantly There has been a significant reduction in vio- stabulary said, are positive.

In Gravel Heights, the police post lent crimes in this area,” Castelle said. over the last two years.

Other areas where cops are perma- has been set up at the pinnacle of a hill that According to police data, 115 murders were reported in the St Catherine North nently posted to ensure that criminals are was once occupied by gunmen. Now, that Division in 2012, compared to 174 the previ- kept at bay include Twickenham Park Road spot gives the cops a vantage point to view ous year. Shootings numbered 118 last year, in the vicinity of Greendale; Shelter Rock; the entire community and keep criminals at Thompson Pen, a bustling community where bay. compared to 178 in 2011.

“This was where the bad men used Even more encouraging for the police and drive-by shootings and armed robberies residents of the old capital and its neighbour- were commonplace; the Spanish Town Hos- to be. Whenever a police vehicle was entering communities is word from Superinten- pital; and Lakes Pen, where residents have ing the community they could see from the dent Anthony Castelle that the gangsters are been the victims of gun violence because of top of the hill and escape. We have taken over this spot, and since then the criminals now on the retreat because of police strat- their opposition to the Klansman gang.

“There have been no robberies at have fled the community. Now, the law-abidegies that have been implemented over the Greendale, and the Lakes Pen area has been ing citizens can go about their daily business last 12 months. in peace and the children “We are using can come out to play,” all the resources at our Castelle said. disposal and we will not The residents, of wait until a crime is comcourse, are happy. “We mitted before we act,” don’t want them to leave.

Castelle old the Jamaica We want the police to Observer during a tour stay right here. I can last week of some of the sleep comfortable, walk communities that were, in peace, and set up my in the past, most prone to little shop,” one womviolence and criminality. an, who asked not be to “The murder named, said. rate in the division has Orville Reid also been significantly relives in Gravel Heights duced. Extortion used and was not afraid to to cripple businesses, share that sentiment pubbut that has significantly licly. been minimised. The il“Life is 100 per legal transport centre has cent better since the pobeen down for almost lice have come here. two years and will not We don’t want them to be back up in operation. leave,” he said.

The criminals have been However, the forced to leave the area Orville Reid (right) implores Superintendent Anthony Castelle to fast-track the and we are actively pur- building of a bathroom for police who occupy a makeshift police post in Gravel police post in Gravel Heights. Looking on is Deputy Superintendent Herold Newton.

Heights has no bathsuing migrating criminals,” Superintendent Castelle stated firmly. peaceful since we have occupied those ar- room. Therefore, the cops who occupy it are forced to use the bushes or ask residents to His major challenges now remain eas,” Castelle said.

But perhaps the most effective allow them to use their facilities. robberies, break-ins, rape, and carnal abuse, To counter that, the residents have move by the police has been made in the which have all seen increases in 2012.

Over the last two decades, hundreds once-troubled neighbourhoods of Gravel offered to provide the labour to construct a bathroom for the cops, and Reid was upset of persons have been killed by criminals in Heights and Tredegar Park.

In August 2010, about 20 heavily that everything was not in place as yet.

Spanish Town. So bad was the violence that “The man dem need a bathroom, police sources said members of the top brass armed gunmen invaded a section of Tredegar were reluctant to be assigned to the division. Park and slaughtered eight persons, includ- Mr Castelle,” he told the superintendent sternly during last week’s tour. “We will Multiple murders — including be- ing 11-year-old Alexifia Anderson.

The other victims were Alexifia’s build it, but dem need it, because especially headings — shootings, extortion, and mayhem made residents fearful. Many days, mother Hopelin Dennis, 43; her sister Nek- at night dem can’t be walking and asking to business operators were forced to pull down fifa Anderson, 23; and her brother Joel An- use bathroom.”

Castelle, acknowledging and appretheir shutters prematurely as gunmen from derson.

The others, who were killed on sep- ciating the residents’ concern for the welfare the two notorious criminal outfits — the One Order and Klansman gangs — and later the arate premises, were Eldon Heron, 60; his of the cops under his command, informed son, Eldon Heron Jnr, 38; Gary Stewart, 22; Reid that the situation would be resolved Unity Gang, traded bullets.

The “illegal transport centre” to and Orrett Miller, 26. Another man, who was sooner than later.

In addition to setting up a police which Castelle referred was once the source also shot, was hospitalised in serious condipost, the police have also cut a road to give of deadly battles between the One Order and tion.

Hours after the massacre, two of the them easier access to the community and Klansman gangs over extortion rights.

Oxford Road in the town is regard- suspected gunmen were cut down in a shoot- are moving to set up a homework centre for the children of Gravel Heights. Community ed as a borderline between Klansman op- out with police.

The residents of Gravel Heights meetings are also a regular feature of the eratives from Railway Lane and One Order were not without their share of misery as police initiative to restore normality to the gangsters from Ellerslie Pen. For years, both sides would launch police reported that two double murders per community, which still bears the scars of gang violence. attacks on each other, even in broad daylight. week was the norm for that community.

Both communities were the stompBut in the last year, no such attacks have been Continued On Page 7 carried out, as the police have implemented ing grounds for the Klansman Gang, but

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Sunday morning market trip ends in tragedy TRINIDAD (TG) -Bundles of fresh produce on top of mangled car parts, small rubber slippers flung across the street and bits of shopping bags shredded by impact created the snapshot of a family’s Sunday morning market trip that ended in tragedy.

Hadeey Paul and her two daughters—Shakira and Ruthie—died instantly yesterday on their way back from the Central Market.

The family of three was struck by a speeding car driven by an off-duty policeman on the Beetham Highway.

Shakira, 7, attended Eastern Girls’ Government Primary Schools while Ruthie, 8, attended Nelson Street Girls’RC School.

At Pioneer Drive in Sea Lots, Port-ofSpain, yesterday, Hadeey’s mother, Carol Gonzales, said she did not wish to say much but pleaded with reporters and photographers not to display images of the dead bodies of the front page of today’s paper. Tears streaming down her face, Gonzales said she feared for her own mother’s health if she were to see such images. Hadeey’s elder brother, Junior Gonzales said his grandmother had an ailing heart and family members could not bear to tell her the news.

Gonzales said he was overwhelmed with emotion when he heard the tragic news. He said: “When I see that, water just run out my eyes.” He said Hadeey and her two daughters were supposed to attend a cousin’s wedding yesterday. “They were heading home from the market,” he said.

“She had done cross the road already, market bags and everything. They were on the pavement already when they got bounced.”

A prominent member of the Sea Lots community who seemed to have the command and support of residents and only wanted to be referred to by his alias “Big Man” said for almost two and a half years, residents of Sea Lots had been requesting that a walkover be built at the Beetham Highway. He said residents have been concerned for many years about the dangers of crossing the busy highway.

He said when residents heard about the accident, they came out in large numbers to grieve for Paul who was a wellknown figure in the community. “What people established here was sympathy,” he said. “They came out to vent their emotions towards it because she is very well known in the community. Everybody knows Hadeey.”

He described her as a hardwork-

ing woman who cared very much for her daughters. He said visiting the market on Sunday mornings was a ritual for members of the community and added that children often accompanied their parents on these trips. Community members, he said, had no intention of engaging in acts of violence or exercising force immediately after the accident occurred. He said the police saw the gathering of people as a riot and began firing rubber bullets at residents and releasing tear gas.

He said: “The general reaction of the people after the accident was sympathy.

The police have turned it into aggression.

Nobody came out here for violence. People came out here to see a member of the community, a fellow sister and when they saw the level of accident, we felt pain.” MP for Laventille West Nileung Hypolite was also at the scene after receiving numerous calls from both residents and members of the media. Hypolite said when he arrived, residents told him what had taken place.

He said residents told him a senior superintendent of police ordered that police shoot at residents who gathered to see what had transpired. Hypolite said he found it “very strange” that police officers would shoot at civilians rather than shoot into the air.

Eyewitnesses claim: A resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said he witnessed the accident as well as what had transpired afterwards involving the police.

He said when police officers arrived shortly after the accident, they attended to the driver before attempting to look after the victims who were on the ground. He said when the driver climbed out of the car window, a pair on handcuffs fell to the ground. The resident also said that after climbing out of the badly damaged vehicle, the injured driver was instructed by a police officer to “play dead.”

Residents say police officers then placed the injured man into another vehicle and took him away. They also claim they saw police officers retrieve a bottle of alcohol from the car. Many claimed they had pictures and video clips to prove this finding. Infuriated members of the community said in the coming days it would be wise for drivers to use the Eastern Main Road rather than the Beetham Highway because “there will be no rest here until there is justice.”

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

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On the contrary, a Licensed Mortgage Professional will offer you with more choices and hundreds of mortgage products. For example, a mortgage professional deals with all major banks, private banks, trust companies, credit unions, and private lenders. The mortgage professional will shop with different lenders to get you lowest interest rate. However, you should keep in mind that interest rates depend on each individual’s own particular situation.

So, if you are a first time home buyer or looking for second mortgage to pay off your debts or your mortgage is up for renewal, then don’t wait. Discuss your plans with a mortgage professional.

Spanish Town residents want police to stay Continued From Page 4 -Residents who had fled the community because of the violence have returned, as the police have flushed out gangsters who had captured the empty houses.

A similar situation exists in Tredegar Park. When the Sunday Observer arrived there, a relative of three of the victims of the massacre was seen cleaning an area where a mobile police unit was set up.

“It’s a blessing. God bless the police. We are able to breathe,” he said.

Constable Richard Brown is one of the cops whose duty it is to maintain law and order in Tredegar Park. He indicated that he was very comfortable working there as the threat of criminality is low.

“It is mostly domestic disputes.

They accept us pretty well and the people who had moved out have come back,” Brown said.

Last Wednesday, two men — Tyrone Herron, 18, of Tredegar Park and Seon Taylor, 20, of Beacon Hill — were fatally shot by cops in the community. Police report that the men were cut down during an armed confrontation. A police source said Herron and Taylor were suspected extortionists who were terrorising a worksite in the area.

“Even though we are dedicated to community policing we will use deadly force if we are confronted by any bad men who point their weapons at us. Let this be a lesson to the criminals that there is no safe haven in Tredegar Park,” the police source said.

In recent times, the One Order Gang has been imploding and several murders at St John’s Road and Angels in the parish have been attributed to the internal conflict.

The Tawes Pen and Ellerslie Pen communities have long been regarded as the headquarters of the gang, and in order to stem the violence the police recently conducted two raids and took dozens of suspects into custody.

“We have carried out our risk as-

sessment and we will be taking every step to keep the violence in check,” Castelle said.

Several of those taken in by the cops are still behind bars.

According to Castelle, the Spanish Town police have been assisted by other colleagues in Area Five, the Mobile Reserve, the Flying Squad, the St Catherine South Police, and the St Catherine Major Investigation Task Force, which have put together solid cases to secure murder convictions.

The results of the police strategies have so buoyed Superintendent Castelle that he is predicting a return of tourism to Spanish Town, home to historic buildings and the old iron bridge, built in 1801 and regarded as one of oldest of its kind in the western hemisphere.

“Tourist buses are already coming back, and in time more will be here, especially with the North/South highway coming on stream soon,” he said in reference to the major road project that will reduce travel time between Kingston and the north coast.

Other initiatives that have been implemented by the police to curb criminality in the old capital are: * Work in collaboration with Spanish Town Mayor Norman Scott, the business community and other stakeholders to establish a Community Safety and Security Initiative; * Clearing of thick vegetation once used for cover and as escape routes by criminals in the New Nursery, St John’s Heights, Lakes Pen, Spanish Town bypass, sections of the banks of the Rio Cobre, and other areas; * Toppled or painted over murals of slain dons and bad men in several communities; * Work alongside the Island Special Constabulary Force to curtail illegal sand mining along the banks of the Rio Cobre; and * Permanent highway patrols from Flat Bridge to the roundabout at Jose Marti High School.

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Violence - an everyday fear in Trinidad Trinis live in fear daily, fear for their lives, livelihood and possessions

farms nearby the Hansraj`s property. Peaceful confrontation is something of the past as several pieces of wood and metal were used in the attack. According to Ms. Hansraj, she was taking a video of the confrontation when her camera was taken and she was repeatedly attacked, beaten and abused. Residents are calling on the police and the EMA (Emergency Management Authority), to investigate, however according to the residents their concerns are falling on “deaf ears”.

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Is it really a lawless society where each national has the right to take the laws into their own hands as they feel the powers in authority are very complacent and are not doing anything to protect their own basic needs.

This country needs a complete overhaul, it is absolutely corrupt, and the only persons living the “ideal” lifestyle are those in authority. The poor are left to fend for themselves, the rich are only becoming

Sates).

Cindy Ramkumar TC Reporter When I hear the words Trinidad and Tobago, immediately I am drawn to thoughts of “back home” “safety” “memories” “fun” “beaches” and “less stress”. Sadly these are all fantasy words for the avid day dreamer.

Trinidad is the southernmost island in the Caribbean just 11 km (6.8 mi) off the northeastern coast of Venezuela, and has an area of 4,768 km2 (1,841 sq mi). It population is roughly 1.3 million people.

Trinidad, for the most part was known as the safest most highly industrialised island in the Caribbean. Trinidad was the leader of the Caribbean and all other islands followed suit. Trinidad head-quartered some of the most respected organisations namely the ACS (Association of Caribbean

Now, upon googling the word Trinidad, sadness, violence, murders, deaths, and travel advisory all are synonymous with Trinidad and Tobago. What is happening to our twin island Republic, to our land where safety of its people was of tantamount importance?

Let us review violence only this week, on the front page of the Trinidad dailies ( Express, Newsday and Guardian) are gruesome images of the head of a former prisoner severed and placed on top of a concrete table outside a bar in La Romain.

His remains found in the nearby cane-fields wrapped in cloth and plastic .

Only this week again, from Phillipines, Palmiste a pensioner and grandmother found beaten, bound and gagged on her toilet in her own home, her vehicle stolen. Villagers are astounded and asking the question why her, she is just a church-going pensioner.

Only this week again, the Hansraj family of Piparo was repeatedly beaten and attacked by neighbours who carry on “illegal” (according to Hansraj family) chicken

Hansraj family from Piparo. The I-beam, metal rod and piece of wood laid out on the table were the weapons used on them.

The biggest question or the only question to ask is; what are the powers that are in control of the country doing? Is the society so corrupt that there is no solution to the violence that is taking place? Are we, as an island consumed by tourism and the money it brings in that we are forgetting to take care of our own people, hence we have created the dependency syndrome where we secretly depend on each other for our own survival rather than the powers in authority to support , provide, protect and serve us.

richer and the murderers and those that commit gruesome crimes are left in the open to continue and sustain their habits.

In conclusion, what is left for the Average Joe to do, stay indoors as much as possible, walk as if they are being followed constantly looking over their shoulders, stay away from public places and keep all doors and windows locked at all times. This is not an ideal situation for living but it is indeed ideal for surviving in a lawless country.

Celebrate the past and the future The RBC Black History Month Student Essay Competition Read three of the top essays every Monday at rbc.com/essay

10 Wednesday, February 27, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Sarwan hundred gives Windies series West Indies earns a series win over Zimbabwe

GRENADA (CMC) -- Ramnaresh Sarwan chose the perfect moment to produce his bestever one-day international innings as his unbeaten 120 earned West Indies a series win over Zimbabwe in Grenada.

On a day of records, Dwayne Bravo’s career-best six for 43 had failed to slow down Zimbabwe on their way to a commanding 273 for eight, but with Sarwan majestic, the home side took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the threematch series courtesy of a seven-wicket victory.

The 32-year-old should have been run out halfway through his knock, but his otherwise chanceless vigil, which helped form part of a 111-run opening stand with Kieran Powell

(57) was enough for the home side.

The shred of hope Zimbabwe had of doing the business with the ball came after Hamilton Masakadza snared Powell and then Darren Bravo for a duck, but they were soon shut down by Sarwan, Narsingh Deonarine (42) and Kieron Pollard (41no).

To lose was rough justice on Zimbabwe, though, who were excellent with the bat themselves, with Masakadza and Craig Ervine putting on 110 for the fourth wicket to put them in with a real chance.

With opener Vusi Sibanda also raising his bat for a tidy 51, it was a much more accomplished performance from Zimbabwe than the one they produced in their 156-run submis-

sion two days ago, although it had looked as though West Indies would dictate play early on.

Despite Sibanda going well, Chamu Chibhabha was castled by Sunil Narine for 11 and, when Sibanda and Brendan Taylor were cleaned up in the space of three Dwayne Bravo balls, trouble looked on the cards.

But Masakadza and Ervine steadied the innings, with the former eventually sent back to the pavilion when he took on Bravo one too many times and found the hands of Narine at third man.

Malcolm Waller clubbed two sixes in a breezy 26 that was ended by Kemar Roach and when Ervine was cleaned up by Bravo, resistance appeared to be over.

But a positive 15 from Regis Chakabva and 12 from Prosper Utseya added some bonus runs, with Bravo then having the last word as he got rid of the former and Kyle Jarvis.

That late flourish would count for little, though, as the West Indies successfully chased down the target.

Powell and Darren Bravo both perished in the same way, nicking Masakadza to Taylor, but with Sarwan largely unruffled, the odds were always with the home side.

Sarwan occupied the crease for 143 balls as he made his fourth ODI century and, as the end approached, Pollard’s quickfire 41 ensured that the job was done with an over to spare.

Scoreboard ZIMBABWE V Sibanda b DJ Bravo 51 CJ Chibhabha b Narine 11 H Masakadza c Narine b DJ Bravo +B Taylor lbw b DJ Bravo 0

60

C Ervine b DJ Bravo 80 M Waller b Roach 26 R Chakabva c Pollard b DJ Bravo 15 P Utseya not out 12 K Jarvis c DM Bravo b DJ Bravo 1 N Mushangwe not out 0 Extras (lb4, w12, nb1) 17 TOTAL (8 wkts, 50 overs) 273 Did not bat: T Chatara Fall of wickets: 1-39 (Chibhabha, 11.1 overs), 2-76 (Sibanda, 18.2), 3-76 (Taylor, 18.4), 4-186 (Masakadza, 40.3), 5-232 (Waller, 45), 6-241 (Ervine, 45.4), 7-268 (Chakabva, 49.1), 8-271 (Jarvis, 49.5) Bowling: Roach 10-1-63-1 (nb1), Best 10-0-53-0 (w4), Russell 6-0-29-0 (w1), Narine10-0-55-1, DJ Bravo 10-1-43-6 (w2), Pollard 2-0-15-0 (w1), Deonarie 2-0-11-0 (w2).

WEST INDIES K Powell c wkp Taylor b Masakadza 57 R Sarwan not out 120 DM Bravo c wkp Taylor b Masak’za 0 N Deonarine run out 42 K Pollard not out 41 Extras (lb2, w11, nb1) 14 TOTAL (3 wkts, 49 overs) 274 Did not bat: DJ Bravo, A Russell, +D Ramdin, K Roach, T Best, S Narine.

Fall of wickets: 1-111 (Powell, 25.4 overs), 2-111 (DM Bravo, 26), 3-219 (Deonarine, 43.2) Bowling: Jarvis 9-1-55-0 (w1), Chatara 8-064-0 (w5, nb1), Chibhabha 5-0-25-0, Utseya 10-0-54-0 (w4), Masakadza 7-0-27-2, Mushangwe 10-0-47-0.

Result: West Indies won by seven wickets.

Series: West Indies lead three-match series 2-0.

Man-of-the-Match: Dwayne Bravo.

Toss: Zimbabwe.

Umpires: J Cloete, P Nero; TV – I Gould.

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12 Wednesday, Wednesday February 27 27, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Caribbean Pot: Callaloo with green bananas, salted cod and simmered in coconut milk Chris De La Rosa Caribbean Cooking I know my Trinbagonian friends will be asking “what this fella trying to pull off as callaloo” as Callaloo in Trinidad and Tobago and a number of the other beautiful islands which make up the Caribbean, is a delicious dish and not a plant. In Jamaica the (plant) callaloo is a much loved ingredient in many of their dishes and is what other islanders will refer to as spinach and/or chorai bhagi. Now that I’ve cleared the air (any confusion), let’s take a peek at a very hearty and delicious dish with strong Caribbean roots (no matter how you call the greens we’ll be using).

BTW, the callaloo (bhagi) is fresh out of my garden and would be considered “organic” (I don’t use pesticides etc) by today’s standard.. you ever notice how much more expensive “organic” vegetables (and meat) are in the grocery store. personally I think it’s rip-off (who monitors these farmers?).

Ingredients 1 cup salted fish (see note below) 1 tomato

green bananas bananas) 5 gr gree een n ba bana nana n s ((cooking cooki king ng bban anan anas as)) 1 scotch bonnet pepper 3 sprigs thyme 1 onion 3 cloves garlic 2 tablespoon vegetable oil 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 scallions 1 cup coconut milk * 1 bundle of callaloo (about 8 cups when chopped) I used salted cod fish (which is dry and salted) but you can use your favourite salted fish (Alaskan,Pollock..etc). In the video clip below I’ll show you how to prep the salted cod for use in this dish (soak, boil and shred). The green bananas will be called “green fig” and/or “cooking bananas” in your fav grocery store.

Wash the callaloo bush repeatedly under cool water to remove any sand or dirt. Then trim off the leaves and tender stems. I then peeled back on the stems to remove the exterior (this way it’s not stringy when cooked). Make small bundles with the now trimmed leaves (1/2 inch thick) and cut into ribbons. Place in a bowl with water to remain fresh. When it’s near time to cook it, drain thoroughly.

Next up we need to prep the salted fish for use. This may mean (depending on the variety you use) soaking for a few hours in cool water, then discard that water and place the salted fish into a pot covered with water and bring to a boil. Boil for 25 min-

utes, rinse water utes es,, th then en dra ddrain, rain in, ri rins nsee wi with th coo ccool ooll wa wate terr an andd then trim/shred. This is to re hydrate the dried salted fish and to remove most of the salt it was cured in.Then it’s just a matter of using a fork (or your fingers) to shred it.

We’ve got to cook the green bananas before we can add them to the pot with the other ingredients. Basically all you have to do is trim off the ends of each banana, place them in a deep pot, cover with water and bring to a boil. As it comes to a boil, add the salt and allow it to cook for about 20-25 minutes. Then drain, allow to cool and peel off the skin, then cut into 1 to 2 inch pieces. If you know how to peel green bananas, you can certainly peel before boiling, but I find it’s much easier to boil with the skin on and peel after. When the green banana is fully cooked, you’ll notice the skin (banana peel) will crack and start separating from the flesh.

As the banana cooks, it will go from that brilliant green to a dark (almost black) colour.. that is normal. The next step is to chop the tomato (set aside for later), onion,, scotch bonnet pepper, scallion, garlic and thyme. Remember when using scotch bonnet peppers, to wear gloves, wash your hands with soap immediately after use and don’t include the seeds if you can’t handle the raw heat.

Now that everything is prepped, it’ time to drain the chopped callaloo and heat the oil on a medium flame (deep pan). Then add the shredded saltfish to the pot and lower your flame to low. Allow this to cook for about 5 minutes, until the pieces of cod gets a bit crispy and flavors the entire pan. It will

start stick bottom st star artt to ssti tick ck ttoo th thee bo bott ttom om of of yo your ur pan ppan..scrape an..sc scra rape pe and stir. Now add the chopped onion, garlic, scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, scallion and black pepper to the pan and allow to soften up and build that lovely flavor base (about 3 minutes).

Now it’s time to add the chopped callaloo to the pot and give it a good stir.

At first it may seem a lot for the pot, but as it cooks down it will wilt and you’ll have enough room. Top with the coconut milk and salt.. cover the pot and let that cook on a medium/low heat for about 15-20 minutes.

Remove the lid (remember to keep stirring), add the the pieces of cooked green banana and give it a good stir. It’s natural for the callaloo to spring it’s own juices, so turn up the heat and try to burn off any remaining liquid in the pot. Should take about 5 minutes.

Taste for salt, top with the chopped tomato and you’re done.

For the amount of callaloo I had, I could have easily put about 4 more green bananas in the pot.. but I love me some callaloo, so I didn’t make it an issue. The lovely flavor base we made with the salted cod and the other ingredients, will certainly rock your taste buds. If you’ve never had cooked green banana the texture will be similar to a very firm potato (like a baked potato) and the callaloo will be almost the same as spinach.. but with a unique flavor of it’s own.

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Wednesday, February 27, 2013 13

Stroke rehabilitation through Yoga

Simple exercise to strengthen facial and tongue muscles

Geeta Maraj Yoga While yoga has become a general term used to describe a form of exercise geared to those with greater flexibility, there is much more to this magnificent art. Studies continue to show that yoga is beneficial in aiding stroke survivors improve their balance, flexibility, as well as, restore muscle strength and tone.

When a person suffers from a stroke, the brain is deprived of a steady supply of oxygen-rich blood which is vital to its efficient functioning. A stroke occurs as a result of a blockage or a break in one of the vessels which supplies blood to the brain. This creates damage to the fragile brain tissue, and depending on where this occurs, various limitations to the body is the resulting factor.

The consequences of a stroke can be paralysis on one side of the body, speech impediment, and difficulty with memory, coordination and association of ideas. More so, stroke victims often suffer from balance issues which result in a greater risk of falling

and bone injuries.

Routinely, after a stroke, there is a rehabilitation program in which the sufferer is enrolled, so as to improve balance, coordination and muscular tone. Adding a yoga routine to help with rehabilitation can greatly enhance recovery rate. Yoga not only tones and stretches specific muscles that are affected but also helps with emotional and psychological recovery. The latter is mainly through a variety of breathing and relaxation routines.

Always seek your doctor’s consent before starting a yoga routine as some yoga stretches should be avoided based on the victim’s health status. Equally, seek a yoga therapist who is qualified to render such therapy.

Most often, such a routine requires a personal yoga therapist as there are not many yoga classes geared solely to victims of stroke.

Also of importance is finding ways to prevent a second stroke from ever occurring. Depending on the type of stroke from which one has suffered, the preventative measures differ. However the basics for preventing a stroke in the first place, or have a recurrence of a stroke includes: not smoking, control of your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, a healthy diet, and having a balance between work and leisure time.

There are a number of exercises in yoga which help to tone the facial muscles after a stroke. These exercises can be

routinely performed whether you have had a stroke or not, for they help to strengthen the facial muscles. As we get older, it is equally important to strengthen the extrinsic and intrinsic muscles of the tongue. The extrinsic muscles help the tongue move up and down, from side to side and in and out.

These muscles keep the tongue in place by being latched to the jaw bone. The intrinsic muscles are within the tongue and aid in the tongue’s ability to alter its shape. This feature is important for clear speech and correct swallowing or deglutition. By strengthening the muscles of the tongue, choking on solids and liquids when eating can be prevented.

Choking allows small particles to be pushed into the lungs, gradually increasing pneumonia risks.

Here are a few exercises which can be performed to strengthen facial and tongue muscles: Trace the shape of each of your tooth with the tip of your tongue. When tracing the shape of each tooth, be sure to trace over the entire front of your tooth, the surface of each tooth and the back of your tooth. Start from the upper left back molar and move slowly around to the upper right back molar. Then trace with tongue, the bottom teeth beginning with the right back molar and move along to the left back molar. This will be difficult to do at first as your tongue will ache but persevere

and the ache will be less as you strengthen the tongue muscles. Try to do this exercise at least 2 to 3 times a day.

A second exercise is to push the cheek away with your tongue. This exercise is done by reaching around the circumference of the mouth with your tongue and push away the cheek from the gum line. Again, begin from the back, upper left side of your teeth and move your tongue across to the right upper teeth, pushing the cheek from the gum line with as much strength as possible. Then proceed in the same manner from the bottom right lower jaw and move over to the bottom left lower jaw. Remember it is the strength in the push of your tongue between your cheek and gum line that tones the tongue muscles.

Relax the facial muscles by blowing a huge air bubble onto the right cheek, and then push the air bubble to the left side, pushing out the left check. Then switch the air bubble back and forth between the two cheeks as often as is comfortable.

Remember to always breathe as you do these exercises and do not hold your breath. It is the oxygen which helps to work and strengthen the muscles. If you hold your breath while doing these exercises, you are robbing your muscles of the energy rich oxygen which it requires, leading to cramps in the muscles. Best of all, these exercises also help to keep the face glowing and shapely.

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Understanding high blood pressure or hypertension

Trish Browning Health Tips You may not be aware that you have high blood pressure or hypertension. Hypertension is referred to as a silent disease among those without recognizable symptoms.

Symptoms may include heart palpitations and dizzy spells. People who are overweight, pre-diabetic, or diabetic tend to have higher blood pressures.

There are blood pressure reading devices located in pharmacies that are usually free and easy to use.

Here is a quick explanation to explain the readings.

When your heart beats, it contracts

and pushes blood through the arteries to the rest of your body. This force creates pressure on the arteries. This is called systolic blood pressure.

A normal systolic blood pressure is below 120.(This is the top number) A systolic blood pressure of 120 to 139 means you have pre-hypertension, or borderline high blood pressure.

A systolic blood pressure number of 140 or higher is considered to be hypertension, or high blood pressure.

The diastolic blood pressure number or the bottom number indicates the pressure in the arteries when the heart rests between beats.

A normal diastolic blood pressure number is less than 80.

A diastolic blood pressure between 80 and 89 indicates pre-hypertension.

A diastolic blood pressure number of 90 or higher is considered to be hypertension or high blood pressure.

Your readings will vary according

to your emotional and mental condition or physical exertion level at the time you strap onto a machine. It’s appropriate to measure often. Chronic high readings may be cause for concern.

Speaking of mental and emotional conditions, meditation, hatha yoga, relaxation, and moderate exercise are always beneficial for high blood pressure sufferers. It also helps to avoid stress or handle it better.

Some foods that can help to lower high blood pressure are.

Fruits and vegetables especially those foods containing potassium and magnesium, such as tomatoes, carrots, broccoli, spinach, sweet potatoes, bananas, cantaloupe and oranges.

Low-Fat Dairy Products Because weight control is imperative for individuals with this disease, only low-fat and non-fat versions of milk, yogurt, cottage cheese or cheese are allowed. Most cheeses are high in sodium-check the label for the best choices.

3 simple steps to lose weight

Monique Bartlett Fitness So what does it take to lose weight? As soon as you discover how to convince your mind to issue “lose weight” commands, you are well on your way to fitness success. To lose weight, then becomes a simple matter.

The difficulty you face may lie in your initial THINKING, rather than in the reality of DOING. Does it really pay to seek a short cut to

lose weight?

YOU have to do the work! You want to lose weight, so that’s what got you here. Your body needs to engage required, time proven, professional principles that prove themselves for you over and again. To lose weight you need to build independence, self-assuredness, confidence, and other skills that engage your mind rather than merely your present physical ability.

Simply do these three things to lose weight: 1. Learn how to find out how many calories you eat and how many calories you burn daily. This is crucial because you will know exactly what your body is doing and what you will need to adjust in order to lose weight. If you have a smart phone, there are some great apps to help you do this.

2. Work out for the most part, using much more drive and intensity than you ever have before in your entire life! Exercising at a higher intensity burns more calories from excess body fat. You may burn twice as many calories as you did before, plus you will feel better and look better too.

3. The number one problem is that you hear this very same lose weight news so much and so often that your brain instantly goes into shut down or shut off mode. The solution? Don’t listen to your inner voice saying that you’ve tried and failed before.

Decide to believe that you can lose weight and you will. Understanding the true meaning of what it takes to lose weight requires acceptance, and action. Just decide to do something about it, so that you can be and have whatever it is that you need in order to help you reach your weight loss goal.

Overcoming your fear of the dentist

Dr. Matthew Weekes BSC DDS MTh DMin

Dental

Why do some children and adults fear the dentist? Usually it is the result of a bad experience in the past. For some the fear is based on the reports of others. It could be a parent passing on their fears to their children or acting in a way that makes a child detect that a painful experience can be expected. Also there are those that have no specific reason but are generally fearful of the unknown.

Children who start their dental treatment early, at the age of three, and have no detectable problems almost always have an excellent patient dentist relationship and fearlessly attend the dental office throughout

their life for preventive treatment and not surprisingly their oral health is satisfactory to excellent.

There are parents that become motivated to participate in preventive dental care when they learn along with their children and appreciate the benefits of such treatment.

There is less fear when children and adults have healthy mouths.

How then does one overcome the fear? Focus on the benefits of treatment. No treatment may result in the condition becoming worse.

Having your teeth cleaned and polished by a dentist or a dental hygienist, having cavities filled or teeth straightened will prevent a potentially traumatic experience such as tooth extraction or removing buried roots. The best way to deal with your fear is to confront it head on. Make an appointment to see the dentist if only for a consultation and check up.

The best time of day for young children to see the dentist should be the morning after a good night’s rest, and some encour-

agement and positive reinforcement from parents. A reward is also helpful. If not in pain the initial visit will be a learning experience with a demonstration on brushing and perhaps polishing and fluoride treatment. This is essential to put to rest any fear of subsequent visits. Those children in pain usually respond well to numbing or freezing gels prior to injections.

Fearful adults suffering from episodes of pain should remind themselves that the purpose of going to the dentist is to get rid of the pain and the cause of the pain. It is helpful to take some over the counter pain medication such as two Advil or Tylenol tablets two hours before the appointment.

For the very nervous, after examination and x-rays the dentist may prescribe pain medication and antibiotics. Also an anti anxiety medication may be prescribed to be taken one hour before the next scheduled appointment for treatment.

For some rare situations putting the patient to sleep in Dental Sleep Clinics or the hospital is the best option.

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Wednesday, February 27, 2013 15

Canada issues record number of visitor visas in 2012 Close to 1 million visitor visas approved

OTTAWA (CIC) -- Canada issued a record number of visitor visas in 2012 with almost 1 million visas approved, Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, and Maxime Bernier, Minister of State for Small Business and Tourism, announced today.

“The Government is committed to attracting an increasing number of visitors to Canada as part of our plan to grow the Canadian economy and create jobs,” said Minister Kenney. “We strive to issue visas as quickly as possible to facilitate travel for genuine visitors – to welcome tourists, to reunite families – and benefit from the economic spinoff they bring to Canada.”

The number of visas issued in 2012 represents an increase of almost 40% since 2004. This steady increase over the last few years reaffirms the

fact that Canada continues to be a destination of choice for visitors.

“Welcoming more interna-

tional travelers to Canada creates jobs and growth in our country,” added Minister of State Maxime Bernier.

“Receiving a visa in a timely and efficient manner is important to our visitors, and helps position Canada competitively as a destination of choice in the world.”

The Government has employed several new tools to attract visitors to Canada and facilitate their travel. For example, in July 2011, the duration of multiple-entry visas was extended from five years to 10 years.

This allows visitors to enter and exit Canada for up to six months at a time over 10 years. In addition, parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents are eligible to apply for the new Parent and Grandparent Super Visa, which is also valid for up to 10 years and allows parents and grandparents to remain in Canada for up to 24 months at a time.

16 Wednesday, February 27, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Your Horoscope - February 27th 2013 Aries Horoscope (March 21-April 20): Choose to minimize outside distractions and Mercury retrograde could prove to be a productive regrouping cycle. Prioritize a creative project, studies, or spiritual replenishment, and/ or allow more time to heal, repair, replenish, and prepare. A budget review is wise now too. Monday’s full moon can reopen a wound or an unfinished dialogue, or offer an opportunity to make an important correction, save, or breakthrough.

Libra Horoscope (Sept. 23Oct. 22): Health and safety are the most important things to safeguard through Mercury’s retrograde cycle. Your work and material well-being run a close second. You can be especially susceptible to bugs, drugs, and alcohol. You’re also vulnerable to floods, spills, security leaks, blind spots, a misread, or a misdiagnosis.

Heed early warning signs, check your oil, guard your pets, and don’t divulge more than is necessary.

Taurus Horoscope (April 21-May 21): While the budding potentials could deliver a higher rate of return, Pisces stars keep the question mark in place for now. Over the next few weeks, Mercury retrograde will fill in most of the blanks. Monday/Tuesday kicks things off big-time; play it to your advantage. What is lost or swept away simply clears the deck for something new.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Pisces stars now light up the best part of your chart. Mercury retrograde is great for revisits and revisions. You’ll pick up whatever you missed on the first pass. Saturday through Tuesday, emotional, inspirational, or creative floodgates will open. Another’s loss, cancellation, disclosure, or misstep can be your gain. As well, Monday’s full moon could see you make a timely or last-minute save.

Gemini Horoscope (May 23June 20): Ample control, reward, or the right opportunity may have escaped you thus far, but don’t give up hope— have patience instead. Mercury retrograde draws added attention to losses, but more importantly it’s a corrective staging cycle.

Monday’s full moon calls you to task, perhaps unexpectedly so. Take things one step at a time. Once the dust settles, you’ll see you’ve made a gain.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21-July 20): Tomorrow is an unknown quantity. Once Mercury retrograde begins, moment to moment becomes major guesswork too. The stars want you to reclaim faith in your sense of being deserving of all good things. Sometimes this happens best through grace, and sometimes through the contrast of crisis or loss; Monday’s at-you full moon could go either way.

Take the help, ask for more. Drive safely.

Leo Horoscope (July 21Aug. 22): If it’s precious to you, make sure it’s especially well looked after. Protect your investments, property, valuables, health, heart, and loved ones. Mercury retrograde will target you where you’re most weak and vulnerable. Monday’s full moon could surprise you with added complexity, loss, or cost. On the other hand, there’s opportunity to correct, fix, heal, or gain more for less.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug. 23Sept. 22): Six planets in Pisces now stoke your social, public, and romantic life.

Embrace the gift, stay hopeful and openhearted, but don’t bank solely on the appearance, the hype, or the promise.

Mercury retrograde and Monday’s out-ofthe-blue full moon can hit you when you least expect it. Fast action, an immediate response, or a quick save are your best plays.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov. 22-Dec. 20): You may want to hide out or check out for a while, but Mercury retrograde knows your number.

Stay vigilant for potential trouble spots or troublemakers, especially regarding home, family, career matters, health, or dealings with authority. What may look minor, innocent, or simple can be deceiving; there may be a lot more to it. Monday’s fullmoon pileup or unload could take you by surprise.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec. 21-Jan. 20): Mercury retrograde is best used for creative enterprise, soul searching, marketing revisions, and reconnecting with folks you’ve lost track of. Keep closer tabs on your driving, your things, your health, and your heart. You can easily misunderstand, misread, overspend, or overindulge. Monday’s reality check sparks more questions, work, and review, as well as alternate considerations and a significant release or off-load.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan. 21-Feb. 18): Along with your budding prospects, a new consciousness is emerging. Still, there’s a lot more to know and to grow. Mercury retrograde can increase doubt, confusion, questioning, or loss, but its true purpose is to qualify what and who is of ultimate benefit and value.

Monday prompts an unexpected rescue mission, repair, expense, bargain, or saving grace.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb. 18-March 20): You have more going for you than you are fully aware of. Your strength, creativity, staying power, and willpower can be put to a challenge while Mercury travels retrograde, but know that the stars are in your camp. Monday’s second-chance full moon provides you with an opportunity to revisit, resume, correct, improve, salvage, or cut loose.

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Efforts to reign in the 407ETR are working!

PLACE YOUR AD FREE NOW!

info@torontocaribbean.com 16 ft high x 8 ft wide billboard located on the Naparima Mayaro Rd. / Hindustan Rd. Junction in George Village Tableland, South East Trinidad (Located directly beside George Village Recreational Grounds).

Look out 407ETR, change is on its way!

Tammy Flores 407ETR Matters Thank you for your support of this campaign. As of February 15th, 2013, the Ministry of Transportation finally revealed who the independent arbitrators are for 407ETR. They said “The dispute arbitration process is outlined in the highway’s governing legislation, the Highway 407 Act, 1998. In May of 2000 the Province and 407 ETR entered into an agreement with DRS and ADR Institute of Ontario to establish an arbitration process under the Act. Dispute arbitrator candidates are appointed from a list provided by DRS. Arbitrators are appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council through Order-InCouncil for a one year term. The current arbitrators, with a term expiring April 9, 2013, are Bruce Ranton Robinson B.A., J.D.; Jona-

than H. Flanders, B.Sc., B.C.L., LL.B.; and Louie L. Reznick.”

They have known about this provision since the year 2000 however, since last year they were “assessing” why the public was not being informed. I have since asked what the problem was and I am waiting on how they will answer that, but in the meantime I would say that this is good news.

Now we have to get the availability of these independent arbitrators and a process to access them transparent.

Another positive note, The Ministry of Transportation’s exact words regarding customer issues was “the Act requires 407ETR to send specific times. In all other areas, it is the 407ETR’s responsibility to comply with relevant consumer laws.” This is the first time the Ministry has ever acknowledged that the 407ETR must comply with consumer laws. Maybe the pending Class Action against 407ETR is a contributing factor because I was the first to complain to the Ministry that the 407ETR was acting in court as if they had the Ministry’s approval on how to handle bankruptcy. The 407ETR is not above the law after all.

Wednesday, February 27, 2013 17

Summer fun for the whole family!

1997 18 foot Seadoo Challenger with Trailer. This is the real deal! Willing to trade for anything with minimum value of $6000.00.

For more information, please email me at kurtwohler2010@hotmail.com Black and grey corner desk. Excellent condition! Desk has 1 drawer and 2 storage areas. Raised area for computer screen.

Willing to trade - call 905-281-0735

I’m looking to trade this billboard space for one year in exchange for any sports equipment for the local youths. ( gloves , bats , balls, bags, helmets , shin pads, water bottles, equipment bags etc.. with a minimum value of $1000 CDN. Please contact Victor Phone: 416-419-1523 Email: victor.singh@sympatico.ca I have a 1st generation iPad, looking to trade for an SLR Camera - 416-894-7859

Green and black ladies dresser 9 drawer dresser with mirror. Excellent condition Willing to trade - call 905-281-0735 I have a BlackBerry Torch in great condition I am looking to trade for an iPad. If interested, please call 416-276-1578 I have a Amway E-spring water filtration system. One of the best on the market, willing to trade it for electronics, PS3 or anything interesting - 416-894-7859

Never used Ford Windstar Mirrors Brand new side mirrors for Ford Windstar/ Freestar. Mirrors have signal lights as well.

Outstanding condition and never been used, shipping plastic still on mirrors! Willing to trade, make me an offer! 647-309-4606

18 Wednesday, February 27, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Networking to get results at events!

Tips and tricks on being more effective with your time

Jim Pagiamtzis Business Development There are events and seminars happening throughout the month that you are attending and taking the time, energy and money to network. You must be prepared for the opportunity and be able to follow up with goals to achieve the desired results.

Networking is a concept that needs to be done on an ongoing basis to create momentum and yield results. Attracting qualified clients that you can offer specific packages is the goal.

Connecting Building your list is important to do on a dai-

ly basis whether you are meeting people online or offline. These are important resources that will begin to add up with connections on LinkedIn and other social networking sites you belong to.

Your business is your billboard and is the most important marketing tool you have. When you are at a networking event or going bowling with friends, being prepared for any opportunity is the best strategy to remember. American Express has a great saying “never leave home without it” same goes for you business card, it’s part of you like the clothes you wear every day.

Information You have an expertise in specific areas from networking and a wealth of resources you want to share. One important aspect of networking is that you are able to fill the needs of others. Recently at an event, I noticed an attendee didn’t have a website for his construction business. I highly recommended

that he should have a website that prospective clients could visit, and offered to email him some of my contacts to assist him.

When you hand out your business cards you can advise your contacts that “you appreciate referrals and will to offer compensation for completed transactions”. This will create a strong signal of confidence in your abilities and will create a win-win situation.

Monetize The most important part in creating a strong networking system is the ability to monetize easy and effectively. Knowing your product and the package that would be best for you

potential client.

Have a follow-up system that will create results with every contact you meet will allow you to set up a meeting.

Making follow-up calls within 24 hours is imperative. The ability to pick up the phone is the only way to create a strong connection. Do not rely on only sending emails, adding them to your LinkedIn connection or to your monthly newsletter. This can be done a later time.

Your goal is to deal with the strong leads in a timely manner. Increasing you database is an important part of the networking strategy which needs to be done.

www.alpremium.ca

Store Opens 8:00am to 12:00am (Midnight) Monday - Sunday

1.416.751.3666

Plaza Entrance at McDonald or Staples from Eglinton Ave. East