St. Vincent and the Grenadines 34th Independence Gala 110613

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Georgetown sees biggest Diwali motorcade in recent history

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St. Vincent and the Grenadines 34th Independence Gala

EMILY SINGH/TORONTO CARIBBEAN

VAUGHAN -- Congratulations St. Vincent and the Grenadines, 34 years of independence and going strong! It was on October 27th 1979 that St. Vincent and the Grenadines obtained its independence from Britain. Thirty-four years later on Saturday night The St. Vincent and Grenadines Association of Toronto took to Riviera Parque Banquet & Convention Centre in Vaughan, Ontario to celebrate with a dinner and dance gala. A part of the proceeds from the evening goes to the Sick Kids Hospital in conjunction with the SickKids-Caribbean Paediatric Cancer and Blood Disorders Initiative.

With the goal of “Strengthening our Youths for the Future” the St. Vincent and Grenadines Association of Toronto presented two scholarship bursaries to two well deserving individuals. Through their scholarship programme, Teanne Labode-Sutton, a political science major and Lemuel Stephens, a bio-medical engineering student both received scholarships towards their post secondary pursuits.

The very talented Bowman sisters, Rhea and Rhenice who showcased their dancing skills to a mix of ballet, contemporary and Afro-Caribbean style, entertained guests. Miss Teen International Dance Talent, Nia DeFreitas-Lynch took to the dance floor and stunned the audience with the graceful moves and elegance across the floor.

Dinner was served as guests enjoyed Greek salad complimented by gemelli pasta before enjoying the main course of grilled salmon, chicken supreme in peppercorn sauce, roasted potato wedges and a side of mixed seasonal vegetables.

Consulate General of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Mr. Fitzgerald Huggins expressed his well wishes on this milestone for St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Huggins also introduced the keynote speaker for the night, Her Excellency La Celia A. Prince who is ambassador to the United Nations and the OAS St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Her Excellency La Celia A. Prince posses an extraordinary academic background from the University of the West Indies in Barbados, Sir Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad and the prestigious Cambridge University in England. H.E La Celia A. Prince directs her efforts and puts forth her energy towards the growth and establishment of foreign invests in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Guests enjoyed a delicious mix of lemon, raspberry and mango sorbet before getting up off their feet and onto the dance floor! Julian McIntosh accompanied by the Caribbean Thunderbolts and DJ Fusion had guests celebrating their homelands independence and dancing the night away!

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Alleyne can get the job done—PM TRINIDAD -- United National Congress (UNC) candidate for St Joseph, Ian Alleyne Sunday attempted to deliver on his promise to “deal” with his detractors and took shots at both People’s National Movement (PNM) leader Dr Keith Rowley and his former ally Om Lalla, the candidate under the Independent Liberal Party (ILP). He said Rowley refused him as a prospective member because “he could not handle the truth.” “You toting feelings,” he said, directing his comments to Rowley. He said Lalla lived in a $20 million home in Valsayn, “never took a taxi” and was not one of the people as he was.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar once again called on the electorate to “hold her hand” in support for today’s by-election. “Go out and vote, go out and vote, go out and vote,” she said.

Speaking at the United National Congress’ last lap rally on the eve of the by-election, Persad-Bissessar said in 40 years the People’s National Movement have not been able to deliver while their candidate Ian Alleyne had started 25 projects in just two weeks. “We will work with Ian Alleyne,” she said. In more election goodies

news, Persad-Bissessar said tenders were already out for the construction of a new police station in the constituency. In her short delivery, PersadBissessar said 71 per cent of the population had water and compared that to the 18 per cent under the PNM. “Do not ever forget,” she said.

She said “who vex loss” but the people of St Joseph will benefit with Alleyne as their representative. She detailed the roads and drains work already accomplished. “We delivered over 36,000 metres of repaved and rehabilitated roads, together with over 10,000 metres of new drainage,” she said. Other speakers endorsing Alleyne on the UNC platform included Planning Minister Dr Bhoe Tewarie and National Security Minister Gary Griffith. Griffith also accused the PNM of spying on local journalists and listed their names, including former Guardian editor Francis Joseph, who is currently the Press Secretary of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar. He said Rowley was not being truthful when he said he did not have security for the past three years. Griffith said he, as National Security Minister, spoke with Rowley to set up security escorts but was refused.

(Trinidad Guardian)

Judge granted $2.2M in damages for false imprisonment when a practising lawyer

Vanessa,

from Guyana, is a co-owner of a clothing and decal business in Toronto. She loves to site see and watch movies, but when it comes to down time, it’s being in her PJs playing Call of Duty.

Michelle aspires to continue to be a successful business women, fashion designer and one day enjoy a hobby of modeling. Her favorite quote is “The only thing that will stop you from fulfilling your dreams is you.” ~ Tom Bradley

GUYANA -- JUSTICE William Ramlall on Friday granted $2,227,700 in damages to Justice Navindra Singh for false imprisonment he had suffered in 2006 while being a practising lawyer.

Justice Ramlall granted the Order against Policeman Benjamin 11712; Police Sergeant James (12496) and the Attorney General with interest and costs.

The judge said he hopes that the authorities would see to it that the sum awarded comes from the pockets of the policemen who had body searched the lawyer, assaulted him and unlawfully detained him for four hours without authority.

That, he said, would serve as a deterrent to others.

The No. 2 defendant had finally charged the lawyer with obstruction of traffic and threatening behaviour, charges which were dismissed after a full hearing by Chief Magistrate Sullivan.

Mr. Singh had caused the summons to be filed against the policemen for exemplary damages for assault in excess of $50,000, committed by the first named defendant on May 9, 2006 at Georgetown; Exemplary damages in excess of $100,000 for malicious prosecution committed by the first and second named defendants on the May 9, 2006; Exemplary damages in excess of $50,000 for malicious prosecution by the second named defendant on the 11th day of May 2006 at Georgetown.

At the trial of the policemen, Mr. Singh now a High Court Judge was represented by the firm of Kissoon and Kissoon.

Justice Ramlall noted that the patrol policemen had no authority to arrest the lawyer at gunpoint and expressed the hope that the authorities would ensure that the award would be taken from the pockets of the policemen responsible so this would serve as a deterrent to others.

According to Justice Ramlall, when Mr. Singh had enquired on what authority he was being arrested, the No. 2 defendant pointed a gun at him and said, “This is my authority.”

The lawyer drove to Brickdam Police Station where he was body searched and detained for four hours before being charged.

On May 9, 2006 the lawyer was stopped in front of the Supreme Court and he was subsequently charged with obstruction.

Mr. S. Kissoon of Kissoon & Kissoon noted that the police on patrol had no authority to arrest someone for an offence of obstruction.

He said that under the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act such offences are outside the category of arrested offences.

According to him, in addition to that all of the acts were carried out by a squad called the Special Firearm Squad whose duties were to search for illegal guns and drugs and not traffic offences.(Guyana Chronicle)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Georgetown sees biggest Diwali motorcade in recent history –with youths dominating this yearʼs festivities GUYANA -- Like a solid wall stretching into the distance, spectators lined several city streets and roadways leading to the Georgetown Seawall, and the seawall running along the East Coast of Demerara, as they sought to get a glimpse of the attractive floats and the beautifully made up men, women and children from the Hindu community participating in the Dharmic Sabha’s annual Diwali motorcade.

Saturday evening, the floats assembled at the Shri Krishna Mandir in Campbell Avenue, Campbellville, Georgetown before making their way in a procession through several city streets and on to the Rupert Craig Highway, along which they travelled, wending their way to the La Bonne Intention (LBI) Community Centre Ground for the cultural programme put on by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha.

Hundreds of cameras, smartphones and other gadgets were used to capture the spectacular displays of lights and devotees ensconced in low-bed trucks, canters, open back pickups and other vehicles from which blared the sweet religious melodies usually associated with Diwali celebrations.

There were individual floats, even as mandirs and other religious grouping were well in evidence in the parade.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle Saturday evening, Culture Minister Dr. Frank Anthony said the event is now tradition in Guyana, and Saturday evening’s motorcade was the largest of its kind for this season.

Dr. Anthony said the Diwali motorcades are always events that persons

would look forward to witnessing, and while there are many mythical meanings to the origin of Diwali, the salient message is that good triumphs over evil – a message all Guyanese can relate to in everyday life. He said that once a person does good, good will follow that person.

He said that keeping the focus and the meaning of Diwali alive will eventually see persons making themselves better individuals, and by extension their country a better place.

Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle before the procession departed from Campbell Avenue, President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr Vindhya Vasini Persaud described the event as one of the biggest motorcades witnessed in recent times.

She commended the various mandirs and other persons and groupings who took time to be part of the historic moment, and said that one of the hallmarks of this year’s celebration, like last year’s, is the fact that young people and their youth groups have dominated the celebrations, and are working to take the activity to another level with their fresh and brilliant ideas.

Saturday evening’s event saw more than twenty floats taking part in the motorcade, and according to Dr. Persaud, the event has now become somewhat of a source of national pride, since it is being emulated in the rest of the Caribbean and other countries further afield.

Saturday night’s parade was described as spectacular, with floats coming from the East Bank of Demerara, West Coast of Demerara, East and West Banks of Berbice as well as from Georgetown.

Dr Vindhya Persaud said that while the motorcade is a competition, those taking part are always encouraged to work together, thus allowing the light of unity to glow unchallenged.

Today, Hindus around the world celebrate the Festival of Lights; and, over the past week, there have been several activities to mark the occasion. (Guyana Chronicle)

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

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Wednesday, November 6, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

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St Joseph people not easy to fool—Deyalsingh TRINIDAD -- People’s National Movement (PNM) candidate in the St Joseph by-election Terrence Deyalsingh said it would be difficult for a candidate contesting the election to easily fool the St Joseph constituents. Deyalsingh was commenting on reports in the media suggesting United National Congress (UNC) candidate Ian Alleyne was using state funds during his campaign to launch community projects.

Speaking to the media Sunday, before the start of his motorcade, Deyalsingh said: “The people of St Joseph are smart and decent enough to see through those things.”

Regarding the advertisements by the Independent Liberal Party and the UNC where the both parties were criticising each other, Deyalsingh said there was no need for the PNM to engage in that type of campaigning. “For this entire campaign I have said nothing about any other candidate and I don’t intend to break that

today. I am focused on what I have to do.”

Despite the results of the latest NACTA poll which placed Deyalsingh out front in the race for the seat, he said campaigning would continue until the end.

“I can tell you what I don’t feel— complacent. I am going after every single vote. We are going through the entire constituency today (Sunday) and we are fighting every single last vote today.” The PNM’s motorcade began at East Grove Development, Southern Main Road, Curepe, and made its way to Champs Fleurs along the Eastern Main Road. Dozens of supporters turned out bearing the party’s flags. Deyalsingh urged his supporters to go to the polls to vote. His first task if he becomes member of Parliament is to deal with poverty, job creation and infrastructure in the constituency. (Trinidad Guardian)

St Vincent launches geothermal energy project ST VINCENT -- St Vincent and the Grenadines has launched its geothermal energy initiative that Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves believes will be a “potentially game changing initiative”.

Prime Minister Gonsalves, speaking at the launch of the testing phase of the project said geothermal energy “is something which is getting more and more interest across the region.

“So, I want to say that we are in the next phase of the operations … The story is that we are making progress and it is a matter of great interest not only to St Vincent and the Grenadines, but the Caribbean, to the neighbouring countries such as St Lucia and Barbados,” Gonsalves said at the launch of the project on Friday.

Chief operating officer of the Iceland-based Reykjavik Geothermal,

Gunnar Orn Gunnarsson, said that his company is confident about possibilities of geothermal energy here, but that scientific data was needed to analyse the potential.

“I have to say that after we have been studying the possibilities now for some months, gathering all of the information that is available for geothermal resources, we have found that there is an opportunity and therefore we have decided to go to the next stage of this journey that we are on. This is doing some surface exploration work,” he said.

Gunnarsson said that scientists from Iceland would visit St Vincent and the Grenadines next week to do surface exploration work and that they would remain here until mid-December and would pay a visit to the Soufriere mountains. (Jamaica Observer)

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Wednesday, November 6, 2013

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Griffith: Give me 12 months to crush crime TRINIDAD -- A National Security Operation Centre (NSOC), a counterterrorist unit/K-nine unit stationed at the airport and prisons, a national security training academy and closer ties with South America are just some of the Government’s plans to fight crime. These and other security initiatives were announced by National Security Minister Gary Griffith during a St Joseph by-election community meeting at Bamboo Village No 1, Valsayn, on Wednesday night. Griffith said while the People’s National Movement (PNM) was talking about the Government not having a crime plan, the Kamla PersadBissessar administration had done more in fighting crime in its three years in office than the PNM had done in its 12 years in office.

“What was not produced in national security in 12 years we will produce in 12 months,” he said.

Speaking about the PNM’s crimefighting intelligence unit, Special Anti-crime Unit of T&T (Sautt), Griffith said it was a waste of time and that the murder rate was at its highest—548—when Sautt was at its best. “They were extracting all the assets from the police...they hurt and compromised the police,” he said. “What this Government is doing is turning it around. The T&T police are supposed to be T&T’s finest. We will give them the resources, the training and the support. We will not sideline them like the PNM...we will make sure that they have the necessary resources to protect you, the people of T&T.” He said the PNM’s plan, should they return to office, was to bring back a defective Sautt which only proved to be a

“macco meter.” Recalling the appointment of junior technician Reshmi Ramnarine to head the Security Intelligence Agency (SIA), Griffith said while it continues to be a topic, Ramnarine was only there for three days but for several years Sautt was “maccoing” and spying on law-abiding citizens. “So when PNM fanatics talk about Reshmi ask them that. Why is it that he used intelligence resources to tap, spy, macco?” Griffith asked residents.

He said the NSOC was going to bridge the gap and all the law enforcement agencies would work together, understanding each other—having joint intelligence and joint operations instead of Sautt. Naming the various security operations ongoing and those on the way, Griffith said: “We have a highway patrol for the first time, you are seeing visibility. We are bringing Bill Bratton, the man most successful in reducing crime worldwide. We are using computerised statistics, intelligence gathering, covert operations—getting the public and the police to work together, proper acquisition of data to turn into evidence, crime scene investigations, community policing and we have forged better relationships and co-operation with our allies like Colombia and Venezuela.”

He said the installation of coast guards all around the island was also in the making. In addition, the ministry was in the process of setting up a regional security headquarters to work with Caricom.

Another of its initiatives are radar speed guns to fight the high occurrence of

road fatalities. Griffith said the national security training academy’s main objective was to train police in customer service. “This is the first government that has stood up and tackled the gangs head-on,” he said. “We are not negotiating with criminals. The PNM would take them to the Crowne Plaza and give them mauby and cornflakes. We are not

doing that.” Another initiative, he said, was the introduction of virtual police officers.

He said these officers will operate online to assist citizens. “Give them the information, they will extract it, give it to Ian Alleyne and we are going to work together to beat crime,” Griffith said. (Trinidad Guardian)

Polls donʼt paint accurate picture—Lalla TRINIDAD -- Independent Liberal Party candidate in the St Joseph by-election, Om Lalla said Sunday that the outcome of the polls conducted prior to an election is not necessarily an accurate picture of the voting pattern of the electorate. “Any area whether traditional PNM or UNC, we (ILP) has gotten fabulous support from the people. I don’t think any poll could properly represent this constituency because it is too diverse of a constituency to have a poll, you can’t compare the Bangladesh to the Valsayn, to the Mt Hope. It’s too diverse in the different pockets.”

Accompanied by interim political leader Jack Warner, Lalla’s motorcade began in Aranguez at his campaign office and moved into North Valsayn Sunday, then to Bamboo Number One. At North Valsayn, not many people came out of their homes to show support but Lalla was not daunted. Police officers were present to control the traffic as the motorcade moved out of North Valsayn. At East Grove Development, Valsayn, the ILP and the People’s National Movement clashed on the compound but ILP left soon after. (Trinidad Guardian)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

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Mother shares pain of her loss after baby dies from alleged beating

JAMAICA -- Morlet Reid is a broken woman. The death of her 22-month-old daughter Eshauna Gardner on Wednesday, allegedly from a beating administered by a family member, was, she said, the latest in a series of misfortunes to have hit her family.

Just last year, her home was destroyed by a fire, Reid told the Jamaica Observer. After that, the father of three of her seven children was involved in a dispute that resulted in a man being killed. He has been on the run since.

Months later, misfortune struck again when one of her three sons got his arm broken by a man.

Then, when Eshauna was a year old, a coconut fell onto the baby’s head, cracking her skull, Reid said.

That mishap, Reid explained, meant that extreme care had to be taken with Eshauna, as even excessive crying could result in her having to be taken to her doctor.

It’s all a bit much for Reid, a clothes vendor, who admits that she is even more devastated now by talk in and around her community that she should be held responsible for her baby’s death.

“People a talk all kind a things; dem say a me kill mi baby; dem say a man mi gone wid,” she told the Jamaica Observer Friday evening, long after her uncle, Clive Barrett, also known as Billy, was arrested in connection with Eshauna’s death.

Since the death of the child, people have been questioning how she could have been left with a man who had returned from prison just over a year ago after serving over 20 years in relation to the death of a man.

But Reid said there was no way she could have expected her uncle, who often quarrelled with her if something was wrong with Eshauna, to have hurt his grandniece.

“Him all cuss me over the baby. I can remember that baby drop off a bed and him cuss mi the most way, me and mi baby father. So we no expect this,” Reid said.

“That man show the baby dem nothing but love.”

But the blank stare on her face as

she spoke revealed that she, too, had questions that she wanted to be answered.

Reid said persons should take time to listen before judging her.

“If me did know say him a go do that mi wouldn’t mek him come fi my baby,” she explained. “Him show that baby nothing but love, so it surprising to me that this really go down.”

Still in disbelief, Reid repeated “Him normally come fi her. Him never do her nothing before. Him grow nuff other pickney before him go prison, so we never expect this.”

She recalled going to look at her child on Wednesday and seeing burns on the body. She said she called her uncle, who by then was on the run from angry residents who accused him of killing Eshauna.

“Him say him was roasting breadfruit,” Reid told the Sunday Observer, but said she was not sure how the child got burnt.

“Him say she get burn and then him beat her on top of it,” Reid said her uncle told her in a phone conversation on Wednesday following the incident.

That, she said, got her really angry. She explained that she was very protective of her children, especially Eshauna, who had already suffered an injury.

“Mi have seven a dem. Mi prefer a man kill me than kill one a my seven pickney. Mi believe if that did come inna him mind, look fi me an’ kill me an’ leave my likkle pickney because she no live no life yet,” an emotional Reid added.

“Mi lose one and it is as if mi lose all of them,” she told the Sunday Observer and expressed fear of losing her children to the State based on the comments now being made by people in her community.

“Mi no want dem tek away my children. It better yuh kill me than tek dem weh. A my pickney dem mi live for,” she said.

On Friday, Eshuana’s death in Dean Pen, Highgate, St Mary revived memories of attacks on other children in neighbouring communities over the years.

In September this year, a 15-yearold girl was reportedly raped by her father in the nearby community of Highgate before he chopped her several times. He had only returned from prison last year.

Residents also recalled that only last year March Jeffrey Perry, a man convicted for the January 2005 machete killing of three children in Killancholly, St Mary, was sentenced to life imprisonment.

Perry had slashed the throats and stabbed four-year-old Shadice Williams; Dwayne Davidson, 15; and 13-year-old Suann Gordon as they slept at their home.

The killings not only shocked Jamaica, but left the residents of the district in disbelief.

REID... mi prefer a man kill me than kill one a my seven pickney (PHOTO: RENAE DIXON) Twenty-two-month-old Eshauna Gardner who died last Wednesday allegedly after being beaten by a relative. (Jamaica Observer)

10 Wednesday, November 6, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Government launches $250m school sport infrastructure improvement project

JAMAICA -- The government has signed an agreement that will see $250 million being pumped into the infrastructural development of 23 high school and community based sporting facilities across the island.

The high school sports infrastructure improvement programme is being facilitated through the collaboration of the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), the ministries of education, agriculture and local government. The project will see schools in the parishes of Kingston and St Andrew, St Catherine, Portland, St James, St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, Clarendon, St Thomas and Trelawny benefitting over the next two years from improvement in their sporting facilities.

The programme will be funded by the Sports Development Foundation (SDF) which will provide $100 million, and the European Union sugar transformation programme, that will provide another $150 million.

Minister with responsibility for

sport in the OPM Natalie Neita-Headley, signed the official agreement at a launching and commitment ceremony recently at the Vere Technical High School in Clarendon.

She noted that under the first phase of the project, the ministry of agriculture will be facilitating the development of sporting facilities in 13 schools which fall in areas under the EU sugar transformation programme.

Neita-Headley said the global acclaim that Jamaica is currently receiving for its athletic prowess, is just recognition for the hard work of its athletes. She noted however, that it was a process that started within the school and community infrastructure…

“It started at the grass roots, in community leagues kicking football with juice boxes, on the street corners in communities without playgrounds, at schools with dirt tracks.”

Neita-Headley informed that following consultations with the ministry of education, ISSA and the council of principals, the decision was made to choose five from among the top 10 performing schools and five from the bottom 10, that would benefit from the programme.

“There is a need to ensure that the sporting infrastructures in schools across the country are upgraded so that students can truly grow where they are planted, not just in academics but also in sports. It is our responsibility to give every school a fighting chance to hold on to their own stars,” she said. (Jamaica Observer)

Rockstone, uncovered… exploring Guyanaʼs premiere fishing destination GUYANA -- Rockstone, a place synonymous with sport fishing and fun is a picturesque little village located on the right bank of the mighty Essequibo River in Upper Demerara-Berbice. It is home to about 200 residents of all races, and is just 14 miles by road from Linden.

Rockstone is Guyana’s Sport Fishing Destination, and every year during October thousands of Guyanese, some of them coming from overseas especially for this occasion, descend on the normally quiet little village to catch fish, renew old acquaintances and to just have fun. This year was no exception.

Many of those who come to Rockstone prefer to camp out next to the river.

However for those who prefer to enjoy some of the conveniences of home, there are establishments such as the Arawana Lodge.

Apart from fishing, which is the main activity, Rockstone offers a variety of other activities. This includes exploring Gluck Island and its environs, going for a nature walk enjoying the beautiful scenery, picnicking, and swimming.

During a recent visit I befriended a 1? year old resident of the village who is familiar with the area, and proceeded to give

me a tour. He was one of several children, who were swinging from a thick rope tied to a huge tree at the edge of the river. He told me that he enjoys living in the village.

From my experience almost everyone in Rockstone wears a smile. Even the dogs, it appears, are friendly and welcome strangers.

I also met several other residents and in talking with them discovered that there is no phone network in the area. This state of affairs makes communication with the outside non existent. Most of those I spoke with whom decried this situation, and called for the development of at least a cell phone network, that would allow them to communicate with the outside world.

The road which deteriorates during rainy weather, also needs upgrading to allow easy passage to all vehicles irrespective of the weather, as the villagers use different modes of transport which include includes passenger vehicles, 4x4s, all terrain vehicles (ATV) and motorcycles.

Rockstone has a quiet, quaint ambience that is refreshing, especially for those of us who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It is perfect for camping and exploration. (Guyana Chronicle)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Goat Islands going... going...

JAMAICA -- It’s almost a certainty that by this time next year the Goat Islands will be virtually in the hands of China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), and well on the way to becoming the first Chinese-owned transshipment port and logistics hub in the region.

That conclusion became clear after the statement to the House of Representatives last Tuesday by minister of transport, works and housing, Dr Omar Davies, as well as the opinions expressed by the newly appointed chief executive officer and president of the Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ), Professor Gordon Shirley, at a press briefing at his new office last Wednesday afternoon.

Although Davies insists that the final decision will be taken by the Cabinet, his statement to the House seemed to confirm that, in the meantime, he plans to do all that is necessary to ensure that the project meets with the approval of his Cabinet colleagues, when a framework agreement reaches them by January.

Quoting from the environmental management scoping study of the Portland Bight Protected Area (PBPA), which was commissioned by the PAJ, Davies said: “The PBPA is not exclusively an environmental conservatory and is intended to facilitate multiple activities in a sustainable manner.”

He noted that the area, although hosting important natural heritage resources, also has a number of major industrial, commercial, residential and agricultural activities, including a Jamaica Public Service power station and an ethanol plant, while its fish sanctuaries are already so degraded from dynamiting and overfishing that fishermen have been forced to turn to the Pedro Cays.

Shirley, who took over as the head of the PAJ last Friday, called in the press to give his views on the project which were also informed by the Conrad Douglas environmental management scoping study the minister had relied on.

“What we know is that this is a large project, about US$1.5 billion. We think that the jobs that would be created, if we were to have an investment like this, would have a substantive impact on our economic development prospects,” he said.

“It is the only investment of this type that I am aware of and, yes, I think we need to pursue the opportunity to see whether this is so,” he said in response to a question.

Shirley also said that the offer for the Goat Islands project came from China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC), a world-renowned international contractor that is a subsidiary of China Communications Construction Company Ltd (CCCC) and which has been performing as the main contractor for Chinese infrastructural investments in Jamaica since 2009.

CHEC officially opened its Jamaican offices on April 22, 2010 after signing an agreement with the Government in 2009 to be the general contractor under the Ministry of Transportation and Works and the National Works Agency for two main projects -- the Palisadoes Shoreline Protection and Rehabilitation Works and the all-island Jamaica Development Infrastructure Programme (JDIP).

The company was also in charge of the construction of the Rio Grande bridge in St Margaret’s Bay, Portland, and the Westmoreland bridge in Georgia, St Mary, and is currently constructing the North-South Link of Highway 2000.

The company has had a somewhat shaky relationship with local trade unions since 2010, primarily because of positions it has taken on benefits normally paid to local construction workers under a Joint Industrial Council (JIC) arrangement.

One such benefit is the 16 per cent end-of-project bonus paid by local construction firms at the end of each project, which was also paid to the workers employed by French

contractor Bouygues.

The two main trade unions -- the Bustamante Industrial Trade Union and the National Workers’ Union -- have constantly raised concerns about the way CHEC operates, including the fact that the unions have not been able to organise labour on any of its other sites in Jamaica over the past three years, despite a JIC arrangement which normally gives them automatic access to share union dues 50/50.

CHEC has also earned the wrath of some members of parliament for its constant refusal to appear at Gordon House to entertain questions from Parliament’s Public Administration and Appropriations Committee (PAAC), on the issue of some $700 million being claimed, up to recently, by local contractors for work done on the JDIP for which they have not been paid.

The PAAC has, without success, made two attempts to get CHEC’s representatives to attend one of its meetings to explain the delayed payments.

On the last attempt, at the beginning of October, Dr Davies personally wrote to the PAAC chairman, Edmund Bartlett, suggesting that summoning CHEC would “set a bad precedent”.

“Whilst I appreciate the desire of members of the PAAC to have full responses to the claims by contractors, I would suggest that the summoning of CHEC to appear before the committee would set a bad precedent,” Dr Davies wrote.

“Notwithstanding, in recognition of the need for answers to questions being posed by members of the PAAC, I undertake, as minister, to meet with all parties in order to be able to provide you and the other members of the PAAC with full and complete responses to your questions,” Davies wrote.

The letter was received on October 2. However, one month later there has been no resolution to the issue.

But it was a bit strange that Davies expressed a willingness to meet with the contractors to avoid CHEC having to appear before the committee, after ignoring a letter sent to him some six weeks earlier by 13 of the local contractors affected by the delayed payments, seeking a meeting with him within 14 days to try and resolve the issue.

The North-South link of Highway 2000, which is currently in progress, is understood to be the first investment by CHEC in any local projects, as the JDIP projects were all financed by the China Ex-Im Bank out of the US$400-milliom JDIP loan.

CHEC has invested US$610 million to complete the North-South Highway. In addition, the company has also agreed to reimburse the Government the US$120-million it had spent on the Mount Rosser bypass road. This came as a huge surprise to PAAC members when they first heard of it late last year.

Both former Prime Minister Bruce Golding, and his Minister of Transport and Works Mike Henry confirmed that CHEC has always been interested in constructing a transshipment facility on the Goat Islands, to benefit from Jamaica’s proximity to the newly expanded Panama Canal, scheduled to reopen in 2015.

But Golding and Henry had insisted that the project would have to be constructed on the Jamaican mainland.

“Unlike its competitors in the region, including Miami, Jamaica can provide the most cost-effective and timely movement of cargo utilising a sea/air movement,” Henry insisted.

But those negotiations with the Chinese stalled when the JLP Government refused to agree to the Goat Islands as the site of the project, insisting instead that the Chinese investors work with the Fort Augusta area of St Catherine.

Golding told a lecture series audience in New York on October 22, he still held fears that the investors may be thinking about a “Chinese enclave”, to which Jamaica would have limited access. That argument was also

raised by Henry in recent discussions in Parliament.

Last Wednesday, Professor Shirley, who has been intimately involved with negotiations between the PAJ and CHEC for some time, confirmed that the Chinese firm has been rigid in its demand for the Goat Islands and has turned down three other sites offered to them.

Shirley related CHEC’s refusal to accept the original offer of the Fort Augusta lands in St Catherine, insisting that it needed more space for both a transshipment port and a logistic hub.

He said that CHEC instead surveyed the south coast of St Catherine and Clarendon, which it felt was more suitable.

“They decided that they wanted to build a facility at Goat Island and have access to land on the mainland, which would be connected by some form of a bridge, and would also be connected to the North-South Highway link and the South Coast highway,” he explained.

He said that the PAJ also offered two more alternative areas for the project, including one close to Port Esquivel, St Catherine, and one at Rocky Point in Clarendon, but those were also rejected by CHEC on the basis that: (i) the land area was too small; and (ii) the port facilities would be exposed to winds that could make it difficult for vessels to access the port.

“You can’t have a transshipment port that could be subjected to that kind of uncertainty. There were some things that could be done, but that would be extraordinarily expensive,” Shirley volunteered.

However, he said that recognising the environmental significance of the Portland Bight Protected Area, including the Goat Islands, the PAJ decided on an addendum to their MOU with CHEC, which led to Conrad Douglas and Associates being commissioned to do the environmental management scoping study.

“It was simply to find all the information that we could on the Portland Bight Area, the environmental conditions, the state of it, and so on,” Shirley stated.

He noted that the study showed that: there were nine islands and nine cays in the area; there are 68 international and national policies and legislation, regulations and standards that may be applicable to the establishment of the project conceived by CHEC in the Portland Bight Area.

On this basis the report noted the importance of developing a plan for financing the efficient and effective management of the natural resources of the area.

In terms of the history of the area, it was confirmed that the Tainos, the original Arawak Indians living in Jamaica on the arrival of Christopher Columbus, lived in villages near to the Goat Islands.

Columbus is said to have named the area “Cow Bay” in honour of the manatees he found there. Henry Morgan, the famous Port Royal pirate, maintained his vessels at Careening Bay, in the area.

The PBPA also hosts important national heritage resources, and key biological resources including rare, threatened and endangered species of animals and plants, including tree frogs, thunder snakes, dwarf snakes, blue tailed galliwasps and the Jamaican fig-eating bats.

Invertebrates are represented by five species of blind cave-dwelling shrimp, and the Hellshire Hills are still considered the home of the Jamaican iguana. There are also signs that the Jamaican coney, once considered extinct, still inhabits the area.

Over 271 plant species have been identified in the Hellshire Hills, including 53 which are endemic to Jamaica, and 15 endemic to the PBPA. (Jamaica Observer)

Wednesday, November 6, 2013 11

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Female farmers feeling the pinch JAMAICA -- The island’s female farmers are not expecting a good Christmas this year.

President of the Jamaica Network of Rural Women Producers (JNRWP) Mildred Crawford believes the season is likely to be far from a merry one for a number of female farmers who have had to close shop this year because of a number of issues in the agricultural sector.

“They just cannot cope; they can’t find markets, they cannot afford input and they are just frustrated,” Crawford told the Jamaica Observer Sunday.

“Women who are in poultry farming have complained that they have had to go out of business because of the high cost of feed and the high cost of electricity. They also have a problem selling their chicken at times [which] could be that they are not able to package the chicken as they should,” said Crawford. She said some who have found markets for their poultry have been forced to offer credits, which has affected their ability to buy feed and reinvest.

Crawford said at one point her group had a membership of about 250 women, but several of them opted out of farming this year. She said some of those who remain are very pessimistic as the unemployment rate has slowed down their businesses.

“It leaves me to believe that rural women are not in a very good shape, especially with them being the head of households. The burden is increasing as they they are being crushed from all angles,” said Crawford. She said that, while farmers, in general, had issues, the situation was more challenging for women.

Crawford said that a research conducted in two farming communities in rural St Andrew in September this year showed that one of the primary issues faced by women was their inability to get payments from persons who credit their goods.

“The women complained that the men were able to sell their goods faster because they are given the priority. When they run out, or they are near exhausting the goods that they have, the

men in turn come back to the community and credit the goods from the women. So they are actually crediting the women’s goods and leave these women to wait until they collect they pay,” she said.

She said the women oftentimes do not have access to money to put back into their production, which has forced several to come out of farming and resort to odd jobs in order to provide for their families.

Immediate past president of the Jamaica Pig Farmers Association (JPFA), Angella Bardowell said that several female pig farmers have also come out of business this year. The female pig farmers, she said, have been facing a lot of challenges, especially because of the increase in production costs and a drop in prices because of an oversupply of pork.

The oversupply, she said, came after the Government made an appeal for more persons to consume more local pork.

“Because of the oversupply earlier in the year, a lot of the persons who would normally buy products at this time of the year stocked up when the product was cheap and therefore it does not look like a bright Christmas for pig farmers...,” she said.

“In order for us to have an industry come next year there has to be an increase in the price of pork, because without it we will not be able to sustain production, and I am sure we don’t want to go back to the days when we had to depend on the importation of pork to supply the market,” the pig farmer said.

In the meantime, president of the Christiana Potato Growers Cooperative, Soyanni Holness, said the women who in her group have been making headways in the sustainability of potatofarming despite the challenges.

“More women are now agriculture entrepreneurs operating farms of average size, onetwo acres, despite the challenges such as lack of financial credit access, land access [and] health problems...,” she said.

She said buyers can help to make pro-

duction better for members of her group by actually telling them the yield of produce they would like in advance.

“It’s very annoying that constantly we have a period of glut followed by shortage,” she

said. “We need to have proper correlation from the farmer to the buyer, ensuring that produce are available year round and distributed in a manner that provides value to the farmers’ produce.” (Jamaica Observer)

Verdict expected this week in murder trial TRINIDAD -- Justice Mark Mohammed is today expected to begin summing up the evidence in the double murder trial against Paul Vincent. Since May, the jury has been hearing evidence in the San Fernando First Assizes where Vincent is on trial for the murders of 16-year-old Radha Pixie Lakhan and janitor Taramatee Toolsie, 40. The State, led by attorney Renuka Rambhajan, is alleging that Vincent, 33, gave written statements to the police confessing to raping and strangling both women. Both women lived on adjoining streets in Siparia.

However, the defence, led by attorney Rekha Ramjit, has contended that Vincent, a father of one, was framed by the police who fabricated and concocted the statements. The murders occurred eight years ago. Evidence was led that on March 22, 2005, that after leaving school, Palo Seco Secondary, Lakhan dropped out of a taxi and was seen walking up Spring Trace—the street where she lived with her parents and siblings. She never made it home. The police and her relatives would then form search parties, but they would not find her. Three weeks later on April 15, Toolsie, 40, left her home for work around 5.30 am, but never made it there. Toolsie’s half-naked body was found three days later by a search party, not far from her home. She was raped and strangled with her bag strap.

The next morning Vincent, who lived with his common-law wife and child, on the same street as Toolsie, was arrested in connection with the attempted robbery and indecent assault against another woman in the Siparia area.

That incident took place the day after Toolsie

went missing. While at the station, Vincent was questioned in connection with Toolsie’s murder.

The State led evidence from Insps Dhillpaul and Griffith that Vincent confessed to killing Toolsie and then confessed to killing Lakhan. Vincent, the State is alleging, took police to a bamboo patch off Lakhan’s street where the police found her skeletal remains, school uniform and bag. He allegedly told police he ripped off her clothes, raped her six times and then used her school belt to strangle her.

Vincent’s friend Lyndon Vialva said, on the morning Toolsie disappeared, Vincent came by his home with “fresh” cuts on his shoulder going upwards to the neck. He said Vincent had a little blood on his pants, which was also dirty.

The defence, however, claimed the injuries were caused by rough sex with his common-law wife.

Vincent was convicted and sentenced for assaulting the woman he tried to rob in Siparia. The State contends that there are several similarities in the circumstances surrounding that incident and the murders. The defence, however, say there are no similarities. The defence alleges that the police took advantage of Vincent because he could not read or write. The defence challenged the language used in the statements, saying it was the words of police officers not Vincent’s. The defence claims that Vincent was tired and confused because he was not properly fed and treated in the station. Last week the State and the defence completed their closing addresses. It is expected that the judge will complete summing up on Friday and before the 12-member jury retires to decide upon on a verdict. (Trinidad Guardian)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Wednesday, November 6, 2013 13

Committed to providing equal opportunities for all

West Demerara Diwali motorcade truly a spectacle GUYANA -- It was an exciting night for the thousands of Region 3 (Essequibo Islands/ West Demerara) residents as they witnessed the beautifully decorated floats and enjoyed the performances put on at the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s cultural programme and Diwali motorcade on Friday evening, which included a sensational performance by Bollywood singer Jeffrey Iqbal, sending the huge crowd into a frenzy.

The event was held at the Ocean View Mandir, Uitvlugt, West Coast and was graced by President Donald Ramotar.

Thousands of people from different religious and ethnic backgrounds lined the West Coast Demerara public road to get a glimpse of the beautifully decorated vehicles in the motorcade.

President Ramotar declared: “This is the Festival of Lights and Brightness; it is where light shines through darkness and good triumphs over evil. And this is what happens in our country.”

He also paid tribute to the late government minister and President of the Guy-

ana Hindhu Dharmic Sabha, Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud, who he remembers as a loving person and who would have been very happy to see such a large turnout at the event.

The President also mingled with the crowd and shared some light moments with the beautiful little “Latchmies” who were on the various vehicles on the motorcade.

The evening activities also included performances by Bollywood singer, Jeffrey Iqbal, who wooed the crowd with his superb performance, especially his all time best ‘Tere Bina’ and ‘Tere Maast Maast Do Nain’.

Various cultural items punctuated the cultural aspect of the event and this was well received by the large gathering.

Head of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr. Vindhya Persaud said Diwali’s significance is underscored by the message of light over darkness. “Light is not only literal, but extends metaphorically to knowledge and spiritual enlightenment,” she told the huge gathering. (Guyana Chronicle)

GUYANA -- Residents of Region 9 (Upper Takutu/Upper Essequibo) were assured of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government commitment to providing equal opportunities for all.

This assurance was given n Friday

by Minister of Housing and Water, Irfaan Ali during the Low Income Settlement (LIS) programme commissioning ceremony at Kwatamang in Region 9.

He appealed to residents of Region 9 for their continued support of the government so that it can continue the developmental process for other communities as well.

On this score the residents responded positively with several residents openly voicing the support of Amerindians acknowledging the persistent efforts of the government to significantly improve their lives.

Underscoring the importance of funds under the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) earmarked for significant Amerindian development Ali lashed out at the opposition for blocking those funds under the 2013 national budget. However, he assured that strenuous efforts would be made by the government to have those funds restored in the 2014 national budget as the are crucial to development in Amerindian communities.

Touching on the houses built under the LIS programe, Ali commended the quality of work and described it as being comparable to that found on the coastland He also said the project has provided a lot of experience which can be builton in other communities.

Ali disclosed greater focus and impetus will be placed on developing tourism in Amerindian communities.

The minister thanked Amerindians for placing trust in the PPP/C government

which has helped it to deliver on what the people rightly deserve.

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Ms. Pauline Sukhai said the government is pursuing development with equity through a focus on empowering people, noting that LIS programme targeted the most vulnerable.

She noted too that the LIS pilot project is a model which can be replicated in other communities and even in other countries.

She stressed that the government is operating in a harsh political environment but would not be swayed away from reaching to people, instead would remain steadfast on its developmental path and determined to compete its task.

However, Sukhai cautioned Amerindians by some who are coming under the guise of fighting for Amerindian rights but really are pursuing their political agenda.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to Amerindian development Sukhai disclosed that 187 communities have benefitted from Presidential Grants and more will benefit in the near future.

Chief Executive Officer of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Ms. Myrna Pitt commended residents for completing the project in record time and for the intimate involvement of beneficiaries in its execution.

She recalled that the design of the project had all the markings of best practice for indigenous communities as the residents were integrally involved and consideration was taken of environmental compatibility.

Region 9 Chairman Winstn Lorentino noted that the people wer very excited asbout the project ad described it as an historic and wonderful event. (Guyana Chronicle)

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Gayle, Samuels shine as WI held to draw KOLKATA -- Half-centuries from Chris Gayle and compatriot Marlon Samuels rounded off a reassuring performance from West 1Indies, as they drew their tour match against Uttar Pradesh (UP) in India, Saturday.

Both batsmen use the relaxed atmosphere to explore the range of their stroke-play, scoring 58 apiece, as the Windies, leading by 94 on first innings, reached 199 for five in their second innings when the three-day contest was brought to a close at the Jadavpur University Complex. The visitors had found out the hard way how merciless the conditions that lie ahead could be, when the bottom half of the UP batting plundered easy runs, as the home team finished on 372 for nine declared, replying to West Indies’ first innings total of 466, with Parvinder Singh completing his 10th first-class hundred of 112.

Left-arm fast bowler Sheldon Cottrell was the pick of the Windies bowlers, grabbing 3-65 from 19.3 overs, left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul supported with 3-124 from 33 overs and Tino Best collected 2-77. Gayle, anxious to spend some quality time at the crease after being dismissed cheaply in the first innings, slammed 11 fours from 49 balls in just over an hour.

The opener put on 68 for the first wicket before fellow left-hander Kieran Powell became the first of 4-72 from 14 overs for Piyush Chawla, the former India leg-spinner and UP captain, and Gayle also surrendered to a return catch to the second delivery from the same bowler after the regional side resumed from their tea-time total of 85 for one.

Similarly, Samuels too, had promised much in the first innings before he was dismissed and batted with typical nonchalance the second time around, striking nine fours and one six from 47 balls in just under an hour.

He put on 84 for the third wicket with wicketkeeper/batsman Denesh Ramdin, whose 41 from 53 balls in 45 minutes contained five fours and one six and also gave him precious time in the middle which he also lacked from the first innings. They were dismissed within six balls of each other, when Samuels skied Arish Alam to long-on and Ramdin was caught at deep mid-wicket off Chawla, who also had Darren Sammy caught at long-on for eight before Permaul joined Narsingh Deonarine to bat through until stumps were drawn. Earlier, Parvinder reached his hundred from 129 balls, when he cut Cottrell through backward point for the 15th of his 17 fours. He spent a further 15 minutes at the crease frustrating West Indies before he fended a short-ball from the soldier to gully.

A couple spills spoiled the fun for the Windies, as wicketkeeper/batsman Amir Khan and Chawla made the Caribbean side

toil either side of lunch, which saw the home team reach 329 for six. Best made the breakthrough about 20 minutes after the interval, when he had Chawla caught behind for 46 and Permaul squeezed them further with the scalp of Khan for 47 to a slip catch inside the first five minutes of the second hour after lunch. Cottrell soon had tail-ender Imtiaz Ahmed caught at mid-on for 19 to bring UP’s resistance to an end and give West Indies a second chance to make merry with the bat.

A day of rest today will be followed by two days of intense practice for the Windies before they face India in the first Test, starting on Wednesday at Eden Gardens on the other side of the city. (CMC) SCOREBOARD WEST INDIES 1st Inns 466 UTTAR PRADESH 1st Inns (overnight 206 for five) T Srivastava b Cottrell 23 M Dagar b Best 42 M Kaif c Powell b Permaul 16 P Singh c Samuels b Cottrell 112 A Alam c wkpr Ramdin b Permaul 0 P Gupta c wkpr Ramdin b Sammy 39 Amir Khan c Sammy b Permaul 47 P Chawla c wkpr Ramdin b Best 46 I Ahmed c Chanderpaul b Cottrell 19 RP Singh not out 6 Extras: (b5, lb11, w1, nb5) 22 TOTAL: (9 wkts, decl’d, 96.3 overs) 372 Did not bat: A Rajpoot Fall of wickets: 1-41, 2-71, 3-93, 4-96, 5-203, 6-260, 7-336, 8-366, 9-372 Bowling: Best 18-4-77-2 (nb3); Cottrell 19.3-3-65-3 (nb2, w1); Sammy 16-2-56-1; Permaul 33-6-124-3; Deonarine 8-1-31-0; Gayle 2-1-3-0 WEST INDIES 2nd Inns C Gayle c and b Chawla 58 K Powell b Chawla 15 M Samuels c Gupta b Alam 58 D Ramdin c RP Singh b Chawla 41 D Sammy c Alam b Chawla 8 N Deonarine not out 6 V Permaul not out 10 Extras: (w3) 3 TOTAL: (5 wkts, 37 overs) 199 Fall of wickets: 1-68, 2-85, 3-169, 4-175, 5-184 Bowling: RP Singh 5-1-25-0; Imtiaz Ahmed 2-0-23-0 (nb1); Alam 11-1-47-1; Chawla 141-72-4 (nb1); Srivastava 5-0-32-0 (nb1) Result: Match drawn Umpires: U Gandhe, C Shamsuddin Match referee: B Kalyanasundaram (Trinidad Guardian)

16 Wednesday, November 6, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Caribbean Pot: Spinach rice simmered in coconut milk and salted pigtail

hhe here) ere re) aan and nd eea easy assyy tto o ac aaccess cceess ss ((in in ggrocery in roce ro cery ryy sstores) tores) tor JJamaican amaic ama ican an n ccallaloo alla al lla lalloo lo ((chorai cho h raai bhagi) soo th tthat at wil will illl be the ‘spinach’ I’ll be using today.

Chris De La Rosa Caribbean Cooking To avoid the “check yourself emails” let me make my Trinbagonian people happy and say “bhagi rice” instead for spinach. Now on to a recipe which I try to make on those cold winter days when I crave the bright Caribbean sun and long for the days when I can be back down in my little piece of heaven The Caribbean. This is as good as it gets when it comes to comfort food for me.

Though I’d much prefer to use dasheen bush bhagi, it’s easier to grow (short summers

Ingredients 2 cups chopped Jamaican callaloo 3 cloves garlic 1 medium onion 1 scotch bonnet pepper 3 sprigs fresh thyme 1 tablespoon celery leaves 1 tablespoon chopped shado beni (optional) 1 scallion 2 seasoning peppers (pimento peppers) 2 cups brown rice (parboiled long grain) tablespoon olive oil (veg oil or butter) 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 1/2 cup coconut milk 2 cups water (or stock) 1 lb salted pig’s tail * No salt as pigtail should have enough salt

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remaining, but do taste near the end and adjust to your liking.

Start by cutting the salted pigtail into 1 inch pieces. Use a heavy Chinese cleaver or ask your butcher to cut them for you. Rinse off, then place in a deep pot with water (cover) and bring to a boil. Then reduce to a rolling boil and let it cook for about 45- 55 minutes.

The goal is to get the pieces tender and to remove most of the salt it was cured in.Drain, rinse with cool water and set aside.

As the oil heats in a deep saucepan (med heat), chop the onion, celery, scallion, garlic, seasoning peppers and shado beni (chadon beni or culantro. you can substitute cilantro).

Add all the chopped ingredients to the heated oil and reduce the heat to low. Let that gently cook for about 3 minutes. It’s all about flavor! In the meantime, wash, trim and cut the Jamaican callaloo into 1/4 inch ribbons. Basically take the leaves, roll into a large cigar and cut across the length of them.

Add the pieces of pre-cooked salted pig tails and give it a good stir. Let that cook for about 3 minutes. Then start adding the chopped callaloo (chorai bhagi) and stir well.

Wash the rice to remove any grit (place in a bowl with water and massage with your hands, drain and repeat until the water runs clear or place in a strainer under running water and massages until the water runs clear) then add it to the pot. Now add all the other ingredients into the pot and bring to a boil.

You’ll notice that I placed the scotch bonnet pepper whole in the pot. This will allow me to get a lot of flavor without

the raw heat. If you’re into the hot-stuff, near the end you can burst that pepper open and deal with the heat. Remember to remove it from the pot when your done and DO NOT break it when stirring the pot.When the pot comes to a boil, reduce the heat so you have a gentle bubble going and cover the pot. The idea is to let this slowly cook, until all the liquid is gone and you have plump grains of rice flavored with the coconut milk, salted pigtails and herbs.

It will take between 20 and 25 minutes after putting the rice in for the dish to be fully cooked, but it depends a lot on the brand of rice you use. If you find the liquid is burning off too fast, place on a smaller burner and simmer. If after the rice is fully cooked you find that it’s a bit runny, turn up the heat to burn off and excess liquid. But do keep stirring as the high heat will cause the natural sugars in the coconut milk to burn and the rice will stick to the bottom of the pot.

Turn off the heat and keep the lid on the pot for about 5 minutes before serving.. According to my mom, this will cause the rice to ‘yield’ nicely.

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Wednesday, November 6, 2013 17

Yoga in bed for arthritis Geeta Maraj Yoga If you suffer from aching muscles, arthritis or other types of joint pains, you already know your challenges upon waking up every morning. This is especially so as the barometric pressure falls when rain is in the forecast. Yoga asanas (postures) are most beneficial in alleviating joint pain and muscle tenderness. Best of all, most of these stretches can be performed before getting out of bed in the morning.

Here are a few stretches which you can try when you awake: Resistance stretch for limbs: Lie in the centre of the bed without any pillows. Keep your arms about 4-6 inches from your body

with your palms facing downward. Bring your legs to about 6-8 inches apart. Keep the elbows locked - meaning that you let your elbows be as straight as possible. Breathe in, and push your left arm onto the bed, as if you are trying to push the mattress away with your entire arm. This creates a resistance in the full length of your arm, causing the muscles to tense. Then as you breathe out, relax the arm slowly, and feel the muscles become loose. Repeat the same stretch with the right arm. Then try to do the same resistance push against the mattress with both arms at the same time. This exercise can be repeated 3 to 6 times or as is bearable.

A similar stretch can be performed with the legs. As you breathe in, push the entire left leg against the mattress with us much force as you can, keeping the knee locked.

As you breathe out, relax the leg and feel the blood flow back into the leg muscles.

Repeat the same exercise with the right leg in similar fashion. Depending on your level of stiffness, you may try to do both legs at the same time if you are not in extreme pain.

Always remember to breathe in as you begin the posture and exhale as you come out of the posture.

Spinal stretch: After stretching the legs it is important to stretch the spine. This is done by outstretching your arms at shoulder level across the bed (similar to making a T-shape with your body). Place your palms facing upwards. Bring your legs together and pull both knees towards your chest. Keep your torso in as straight a position as possible, and swing both knees to the right side of the bed.

Turn your head to face the left hand. Hold this position for a few minutes and breathe long deep breaths. To come out of this position you simply swing your legs back to the center position towards your chest then stretch them out. Turn your head back to the original position where your chin is in alignment with the middle of your chest. Repeat this exercise onto the other side by taking both knees onto the left side while turning your head to the right side. Remember to breathe long deep breaths while holding the position.

Neck stretch: Lying on your back in the center of the bed, keep your legs together and arms close to your body. Place your palms facing downwards. Crawl your fingers toward your feet - as if you are trying to reach your knees without bending forward. When

your arms are very tense, hold the position.

As you breathe in, turn your head to the right side - as far right as you possibly can turn.

Hold the position and keep breathing so as to relax the muscles of the neck. Return to center position, breathe in and then repeat onto the left side.

Entire body stretch: From the center of the bed, breathe in and hold your breath.

Tense the arms by making a fist and stretch the arms towards the feet so as to lengthen them as much as possible. Tense the legs by pushing out your heels - as if you are pointing outward with your heels. Lift your head off the bed and push your chin towards your chest, all the while holding your breath.

Your entire body should be very tense while you are holding your breath and your chin is pushed toward your chest.

To relax out of this asana, bring your head back onto the bed and exhale through your mouth, allowing your entire body to relax all at once.

These variations of yoga stretches should be performed on a daily basis, upon awakening, and/or before you sleep. These stretches will help to strengthen your muscles, thereby benefiting your joints.

18 Wednesday, November 6, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Unusual tropical fruit proves 10,000 times more effective at treating cancer than chemotherapy It is widely appreciated in many tropical regions of the world for its deliciously sweet, yet slightly tart, flavor profile marked with strong essences of strawberry, pineapple and citrus fruits like lemon and lime. But the exotic graviola fruit, also know as soursop or guanabana, represents a whole lot more than just savory extraordinaire, as this powerful “superfruit” is said to contain nutrient compounds that are thousands of times more effective than chemotherapy at treating many types of cancer.

Scientific research published in the Journal of Natural Products back in 1996 revealed, perhaps for the first time ever, that graviola, and graviola seeds in particular, contain a cytotoxic compound that is literally 10,000 times more potent than common chemotherapy drug Adriamycin at treating cancer.

And unlike this and other toxic chemotherapy drugs, graviola does not damage healthy cells in the process, targeting only malignant cells for destruction.

The prickly-skinned fruit, which grows wild in the Amazon rainforest, is quite large and looks similar to an avocado. Inside, it contains a white, fleshy pulp that can be eaten whole or juiced. In Brazil, for example, the fruit of graviola has long been used to make fresh juice, or mixed with milk and frozen to make fresh sherbet. The fruit can also be dried and turned into powder for distribution in colder regions where the fruit does not grow

natively.

Though they previously did not have the science to back up its many health benefits, native cultures have long utilized graviola as a way to promote relaxation, f i g h t infection,

relieve depression and prevent chronic disease. Today, the fruit, leaves, stem and bark of graviola are being used in natural cancer treatment protocols, and with much success.

“Besides being a cancer remedy, graviola is a broad spectrum antimicrobial agent for both bacterial and fungal infec-

tions, is effective against internal parasites and worms, lowers high blood pressure and is used for depression, stress and nervous disorders,” explains The Citizens Column.

“Research shows that with extracts from

this miraculous tree it now may be possible to: * Attack cancer safely and effectively with an all-natural therapy that does not cause extreme nausea, weight loss and hair loss * Protect your immune system and avoid deadly infections * Feel stronger and healthier throughout the course of the treatment * Boost your energy and improve your outlook on life”

Leaked drug company research data proves graviola is an amazing healing fruit

Not surprisingly, the drug industry has repeatedly tried to synthesize and patent the diseasefighting compounds found naturally in graviola. Leaked data reveals that one unnamed drug company in particular spent seven years and hundreds of millions of dollars trying to replicate graviola’s innate healing compounds and claim them as its own. But these efforts ultimately failed, and thanks to an insider source, we now know the truth about graviola.

Beyond this, there is also copious published science replete with evidence corroborating what this drug company found.

The National Cancer Institute, for instance, has known since the 1970s that graviola leaves and branches attack and destroy malignant cancer cells. And research conducted many years later at the Catholic University in South Korea found that graviola seeds target colon and lung cancer cells.

“As far as the fruit goes, you may be able to find it at some grocery and health food stores in your area,” adds The Citizen’s Column. “There are several different soursop juice manufacturers, distributors and suppliers worldwide.” (NaturalNews)

Studies show chlorella could improve insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetes patients There have been studies under the radar of public awareness or mainstream media disclosure demonstrating chlorella’s ability to improve diabetic symptoms. It’s certain that very few MDs know of these studies.

It seems that the wonders of this single-cell microalgae superfood continue to surface. Chlorella has demonstrated several immune system benefits, detoxification benefits, liver health enhancement, and even anticancer activities.

Now it looks like diabetes 2 and prediabetic or metabolic disorder individuals can address those issues directly with chlorella while enjoying all the other benefits this centuries-old, fresh water, green microalgae can offer.

Three studies for chlorellaʼs affect on insulin and blood sugar issues Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas to metabolize nutrients, especially glucose, primarily for energy needs but for other functions as well. Diabetes 1 suffer-

ers have insufficient pancreatic functions of insulin, while type 2 diabetics are “insulin resistant.” Their pancreas is pumping insulin, but cells are not taking it in for metabolic energy conversion.

Just before the type 2 diabetes designation comes a prediabetic situation commonly called metabolic syndrome or metabolic disorder syndrome. This malady is characterized by obesity, hypertension, high blood sugar, high liver triglyceride counts and early signs of some insulin resistance.

All of these situations can be improved with chlorella consumption.

A study from Seoul, South Korea, published in a 2009 edition of Nutrition Research and Practice used two types of rats. One type had diabetes type 2 and the other type was normal.

Both types were subdivided into three groups according to the percentage of Chlorella vulgaris in their diets: 0 percent, 1 percent and 5 percent.

After measuring several markers in all sets of rats, the researchers decided that their study provided enough positive infor-

mation about chlorella’s ability to reverse high blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, without pushing the pancreas to produce more insulin.

Instead, chlorella was able to create a hypoglycemic effect that countered the insulin resistance-induced hyperglycemia. [3] Another Korean study with Chlorella vulgaris and rats (chlorella is popular in East Asia) took two sets of rats separated by diets. One group was fed a normal diet, while the other was fed a high fat diet.

Then those groups were subdivided further into no chlorella, 5 percent chlorella and 10 percent chlorella in their diets for nine weeks.

“In conclusion, 10% Chlorella intake was more effective for blood glucose regulation than 5% Chlorella intake in rats fed a high fat diet. Chlorella intake may prevent insulin resistance in Wistar rats fed a high fat diet.”

Well good for the rats. But what about we humans? Here’s a study that promotes human use.

This study was conducted in Taiwan. Again, rats were used, but this time

some rats were fed fructose-rich chow and then fed chlorella. Perhaps this was to mimic the high HFCS processed food diet that has taken over most industrialized regions. Even with too much fructose, the rats fed chlorella fared well.

Their conclusion: “The obtained results suggest that oral administration of Chlorella has the ability to improve insulin sensitivity, which may be used as an adjuvant therapy for patients with insulin resistance.” [Emphasis added] These studies demonstrate the potential for using chlorella to prevent or diminish insulin resistance and high blood glucose issues, even diabetes type 2, while enjoying chlorella’s detoxification and immune-boosting dynamics.

Remember, chlorella is a food, not a synthetically derived supplement. Anywhere from 3 to 5 grams intake daily is recommended for generally improving health, while more may be added for intensely therapeutic purposes. (NaturalNews)

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Protect your brain, reduce your risk of Alzheimerʼs disease naturally Dr. Lydia Thurton ND BASc

Health Tips The devastating effects of Alzheimer’s disease impacts one in eleven Canadians, with numbers expected to rise by 50% within the next generation. Imagine not being able to remember how to make tea or your children’s names. Currently, Alzheimer’s disease is progressive and terminal. There are medications that can slow the rate of cognitive decline; however, it is imperative that we take steps to promote healthy aging and brain health.

Current diet recommendations to prevent Alzheimer’s should include healthy doses of vitamin E and vitamin C. The brain is a highly active organ that needs antioxidants to prevent damage. Vitamin E reduces inflammation and stabilizes neurons. Vita-

min C circulates in the blood and serves to regenerate vitamin E. In all of the research on diet and Alzheimer’s these vitamins came from food sources, not supplements. Vitamin E is found in high amounts in sunflower seeds, almonds, and wheat germ oil. The best sources of vitamin C are strawberries, bell peppers and papaya, although this vitamin is found in all fruits and vegetables.

Getting cholesterol levels in check is another way to protect your brain health.

High level of saturated fat and trans fats raise blood cholesterol levels and cause inflammation of the neurons in your brain. Adopt a diet that emphasizes plant based foods and fish. The best fish have a healthy dose of omega 3 fats, especially DHA and low contamination with environmental toxins. Wild sockeye salmon, herring, sardines and mackerel are my top fish picks.

Not only does a diet high in animal protein elevate cholesterol levels, it is also linked to a toxic amino acid called homocysteine. Homocysteine causes inflammation of our blood vessels and circulation problems.

The brain is very sensitive to reduced blood supply. Homocysteine levels can be reduced with B vitamins, folic acid and green leafy

vegetables. While not included in routine blood work, this is a test you can ask your naturopathic doctor or medical doctor to run if you are concerned about your blood levels.

As little as 12 weeks of moderate exercise a few days per week strengthens neural connections and circulation to the brain. In fact, exercise might be one of the best ways you can reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. One of my favorite brain health promoting exercises is tai chi. The combination of the gentle rhythmic movements and memory work as you go through the sets makes it a great way to promote healthy aging.

There is some genetic basis for Alzheimer’s disease. Early onset, before the age of 50 has a stronger familial link than late onset Alzheimer’s (after age 60). If you have a family member with late onset Alzheimer’s, your chances of getting the disease are unpredictable and are influenced by lifestyle factors like intellectual stimulation, exercise and diet. When it comes to your brain health, if you don’t use it you lose it.

Interesting conversations, puzzles and learning new hobbies protects your brain and keeps your neuronal connections firing.

The effects of smoking on your health Dr. Matthew Weekes BSC DDS MTh DMin

Dental

Your dentist has the opportunity to observe and evaluate the detrimental oral effects of smoking in the initial stages.

Smoking ruins a beautiful smile causing discolouration of the teeth, tongue, gums and cheeks. If oral hygiene is poor bad breath will be pronounced.

If one starts smoking in their teens and becomes a habitual smoker into their adult years serious health problems can develop which is often life threating. Some use the excuse that they smoke to relieve or reduce stress, however when smokers quit completely stress is usually reduced.

Smoking can cause breathing

problems, lower your resistance to cold and influenza and lack of appetite.

The addictive quality to tobacco is a major concern, and smoking this substance has been implicated as a major risk factor in heart attacks, strokes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD) including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, hypertension and cancer of the mouth, larynx and lung according to Wikipedia.

Chewing tobacco increases the risk of leukoplakia which may lead to cancer as reported by the American Cancer Society.

Tobacco contains several carcinogens. These are components that can cause mutations that lead to cancer. Mutations are a result of the damage or change of a DNA gene so as to alter the genetic message carried by the gene. The mutated gene can also cross over to the offspring.

Tobacco has been reported to cause miscarriages among pregnant smokers and premature birth. Pregnant women should be aware of these life threatening changes and abstain from tobacco use. Also

studies show that habitual smoking runs the risk of developing erectile dysfunction and a very high chance of developing lung cancer. Nicotine which is highly addictive has been blamed for physical and psychological dependency.

Your dentist can play a significant role in prevention and encouragement to quit at any age. However since teens are unlikely to listen to counselling from their parents because of peer pressure, the dentist can focus on the worsening appearance of the mouth. Many times when teeth are straightened the youngsters get excited by their new smile and self-confidence increases. They now get many compliments from their friends and relatives. Their new appearance can become a motivating factor to keep them away from cigarettes. Also we can point out to them that smoking will negate the effects of teeth whitening. We encourage them to practice good oral hygiene and abstain from tobacco in order to maintain excellent health.

Reasons youʼre not shedding pounds Monique Bartlett Fitness The amount of people that lose weight, gain it back, lose it and gain it back, keeps growing and growing. There are many reasons for this but in fact serving size is in direct proportion to the waist line. Most people perceive portion sizes to be significantly

larger than what they are meant to be. It’s not only just the portion size but it’s also due to a high amount of calories and low amount of nutrition. Portion control is vital to weight management. Limiting portion sizes reduces calories.

Ultimately it’s necessary to strength train and do cardio in order to increase metabolism and burn fat. To maximize fat loss the focus should always be exercise that increases lean muscle mass and burns calories.

Strength training helps promote fat loss and is important in long term weight management. It increases metabolism, burns extra calories, and also burns more calories at rest.

It’s also important to realize that food doesn’t cause people to be overweight,

thoughts do. Being overweight is actually not the problem. It’s the solution to family abuse, stress, a dead end job, trauma, bad relationships, and many other triggers. Think of food as a means to satisfy hunger and not as a means to relieve stress or avoid negative emotions. Busy people don’t address their emotional eating and they tend to use food as a reward system. They don’t address their stress and stress is the number one cause of emotional eating.

There are specific thoughts and feelings in the unconscious mind that have an impact on eating patterns. Being overweight is a symptom of these thoughts and feelings. Really, it’s not just what you’re eating, it’s what’s eating you.

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Buyer representation agreement, mortgages & term life insurance Stephen Mohammed Finance Real Estate: A Buyer Representation Agreement is a contract between a Buyer and a Real Estate Brokerage. The agent representing the brokerage should explain the duties and responsibilities outlining what services you are entitled to and what is expected from you as the buyer in this agreement. Review the Buyer Representation Agreement with your agent to make sure that the Contract Period commences and expires, Property Type, Geographic Location, Commission and Holdover Period is as agreed upon.

The Geographic Location is important because you may have a contract with different agents simultaneously for different geographic locations. The Holdover Period is part of the Buyer Representation Agreement as well as the Listing agreement. Although it may appear the same, the implications are not. If a Buyer purchases a property after the contract has expired but the same property was showed to him or her by the agent before the contract expired, the previous agent may be entitled to the commission. Also, if a Buyer purchases a property with another agent while under a contract with a previous agent, the previous agent may be entitled to the commission. You should

consult your real estate agent if you have any further questions or refer to the Reco link: http://www.reco.on.ca/section-buyer/spage-publications/detail-16.html.

Mortgage: Mortgage rates are expected to remain relatively low for at least the next year. You should consult your mortgage agent or broker to find out what options are available to you. We may see an increase in variable rate mortgages versus a five or ten year fixed rate mortgages as the urgency to lock in rates subsides for a little while at least. Individuals should certainly take advantage of the low rates to pay down debt. Refinancing, Lines of Credit (LOC), Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOC) and Personal Loans are some of the options available to you to transfer from your higher interest rate debt such as store cards, credit cards and car loans.

Finance: Term life insurance is life insurance which provides a coverage at a level cost for a period of time (Term). Typically, Term Insurance is used for income replacement. It is the least expensive way to purchase life insurance coverage over a period of time versus permanent life insurance such as Whole Life or Universal Life insurance.

Initially, Term Life insurance is cheaper and more affordable than permanent life insurance. However, when the term expires, you will have to pay higher premiums and go through the eligibility process all over again. Depending on your age and which term you selected, ten, twenty or thirty year you may not need to apply for coverage again.

Celebrating citizenship week, putting Canada first TORONTO -- Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander today personally delivered the one millionth 10-year ePassport to Mark Walker of Mississauga, Ontario. ““The 10-year ePassport is the ultimate symbol of citizenship and has proven to be a huge success with Canadians,”” said Alexander. ““This week at citizenship ceremonies from coast-tocoast many new Canadians are feeling the pride of citizenship and becoming eligible for the Canadian passport.””

The new 10-year ePassport was launched on July 1. Our government projects we will issue more than 5.2 million passports this fiscal year alone. ““Canadians may be surprised at the sheer volume of passports issued in such a short period of time,” said Alexander. “Despite an increase in demand following the release of the 10-year passport, we have continued to deliver these important documents on time and

within our service standards. This level of service is a testament to the commitment and dedication of our employees who deliver these important documents to Canadians both at home and abroad.””

Canada has 34 passport offices across the country and a network of approximately 200 Service Canada and Canada Post passport receiving agents that offer Canadians broad access to passport services. Canadians who travel or live outside of Canada can access travel document services through Government of Canada offices abroad.

Canadian Citizenship Week 2013 compels us to reflect on all that comes with being Canadian. For more information on Canada’s Citizenship Week, including a list of citizenship ceremonies and events in your region, and details on organizing a reaffirmation ceremony, visit the Citizenship Week section of our website. (CIC)

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Keep government out of business - including 407ETR Tammy Flores 407ETR Matters On October 30th, 2003, Dalton McGuinty gave his first speech as Premier to the Economic Club of Toronto. He used weighty words claiming that his predecessors produced budgets the way that the circus puts on an act with smoke, mirrors and spin. He touted that he would put the public interest ahead of political interest, give people the straight goods, and tell people the truth about the province’s accounts. He was critical

about the sale of 407ETR saying it was sold at fire sale prices, putting short-term political interests ahead of the public interest.

What did he do about 407ETR issues? He commissioned Harinder Takhar to conduct a review of 407ETR’s customer service. On November 12th, 2004 the Ontario Liberal Party’s “circus act with smoke, mirrors and spin” began.

The problems that were found in that review, still exists to this very day. Dalton McGuinty did absolutely nothing about rising tolls and customer service issues. As a matter of fact he quit, made an “amicable” settlement with this company, threw consumers under the bus and blamed Mike Harris for everything. So much for putting the public interest ahead of political interest.

Now we have this highway being extended to the east and a government that has performed the greatest circus act of all.

The Ontario Liberal Party claims that the extension will be publicly owned and that they will be able to control tolls and customer service issues. However, they gave the same consortium of investors in the current 108 KM’s, not only the contract to design and build the extension, but also the contract to operate and maintain the highway for 30 years. Nothing with respect to tolls or customer service issues will change. It’s all just smoke, mirrors and spin.

Tim Hudak says government should stay out of a business’ way and let them create jobs, etc... I would ask him & any other leader to take that thought a step further and say, if a company wants to build a highway without a gate, find a way to protect your own bottom line. The government should keep out of this company’s business and stop acting as this company’s own personal collection agency. Change the 407 Act!

Attracting the worldʼs best and brightest to Canada TORONTO -- Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander announces a new visa stream to attract foreign entrepreneurs to Canada. ““As part of our government’s focus on jobs, growth and long-term prosperity, it is critical for Canada to attract the best entrepreneurs and innovators from around the world,”” said Alexander. ““This new stream will partner Canada’s world class business incubators with immigrant entrepreneurs, driving economic growth and placing Canada ahead of its competitors in the global economy of the 21st century.””

The launch of a new Business Incubator stream under the Start-up visa (SUV) Program to recruit dynamic foreign entrepreneurs will complement existing venture capital and angel investor streams. It will attract early-stage and high growth businesses, and entrepreneurs who can contribute to a

culture of innovation and commercialization in Canada.

Business incubators provide promising entrepreneurs with valuable mentorship, and help them to attract investors and grow their start-ups into sustainable businesses that can create jobs in Canada. ““We are honoured to partner with Citizenship and Immigration Canada on this exciting new initiative,”” said CABI President David McNamara. ““Our mission is to help small businesses grow and succeed.

Connecting immigrant entrepreneurs with Canada’s accredited business incubators will broaden our respective networks and bring us all to the next level. The possibilities are endless!””

Citizenship and Immigration Canada will designate eligible business incubator programs in consultation with the Canadian Association of Business Incubation (CABI).

The new stream will begin accepting applications on October 26, 2013.

Alexander also announced today that five additional Canadian venture capital funds will soon be designated as SUV partners. ““We are excited about the expansion of the Start-up visa and look forward to welcoming innovators through this program in the near future,”” said Alexander.

The SUV is a five-year pilot program and is limited to no more than 2,750 applications per year. It is designed to attract high quality and select entrepreneurs who can advance the Government of Canada’s innovation agenda. In addition to standard admissibility requirements, SUV applicants must meet certain program eligibility criteria. (CIC)

Canada welcomes largest number of parents and grandparents in nearly 20 years TORONTO -- Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander today pledged aggressive action to reunite more families in 2014. Alexander also announced that the backlog of Parent and Grandparent (PGP) program applications will be almost 50 percent lower by the end of 2013 than it was just two years ago. ““Our Government is keeping our promise to overcome the massive backlogs we inherited and reunite families faster,”” said Alexander. ““These numbers represent the highest level of parent and grandparent admissions in nearly two decades and are a clear expression of our commitment to family reunification as a key part of our immigration plan.””

The Government is on track to surpass its commitment to admit 50,000 parents and grandparents to Canada over two years (2012 and 2013), and Canada intends to welcome an additional 20,000 in 2014.

The admission of an additional 20,000 parents and grandparents in 2014 is part of the annual levels plan tabled yesterday by Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

Under the Action Plan for Faster Family Reunification, the Government cut backlogs and wait times for sponsored parents and grandparents. Prior to that, families regularly had to wait eight years or more to bring their loved ones from overseas.

Had no action been taken, it was predicted that the backlog could increase to 250,000 persons with wait times of 15 years by 2015. Because of the Government’s aggressive actions, wait times are now expected to be just one fifth of that time.

The PGP program will start accepting applications again in January with new eligibility criteria for sponsors and a cap of 5,000 applications per year. The cap

is being put in place to allow for the elimination of the existing backlog and prevent future backlogs. More information, new application forms and instruction guides for the redesigned PGP program will be made available in the coming weeks. ““The modernized PGP program will mean faster processing times and shorter waits,”” said Alexander. ““It will also ensure that families have the financial means to support those they sponsor, while also protecting the interests of taxpayers.””

The Super Visa remains a popular option for parents or grandparents wishing to visit their families in Canada for an extended period of time. The Super Visa is valid for up to 10 years and allows parents and grandparents to come to Canada for up to two years at a time. To date, nearly 26,000 Super Visas have been issued with an approval rate of 84 percent. (CIC)

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Torontoʼs Destiny Crossover Band Loud, energetic, passionate and diverse are just some of the many words that describe the band Destiny.

Destiny is a Toronto based crossover band that was formed in 2007. Currently the members include; Stephen Nanan (Founder/Keyboards), Curtis B (Vocalist), Kiran Dindial (Drummer), Kamela Singh (Vocalist), Vijai Ramdath (Engineer), Kailash Dindial (Vocalist), Barry Soodeen (Vocalist), Mickey Maharajh (Guitarist), Matthew Greer (Freelance Bassist) and Celine Nanan (Machines). Together they make up Destiny; creating a fusion of music that incorporates genres including Soca, Reggae, R&B, Chutney, Crossover and Indian.

Destiny not only brings their own energetic vibes to the stage, but also a positive energy allowing them to continuously excel in their performance. Awarded Top Soca band of the year in 2012, Destiny was overwhelmed with joy. They have been

blessed with the opportunity to perform for the Vancouver, Toronto, Barrie and Vaughan carnivals, which have resulted in outstanding reviews from all the critics and promoters in attendance. Destiny has also performed at many events and venues like; Sound Academy, Dundas Square, Ontario Place, Unionville, Gerrard Square and the CNE, to name a few. Destiny has also had the pleasure of working with such artists like; Rikki Jai, Terry Gajraj, Hitman, Devika Ram and K.I. Currently Destiny is gearing up for 2014, where you can expect new Chutney and Soca music as well as a number of collaborations. You can also catch Destiny performing at birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, receptions, corporate events, galas, parties, club events and fetes. They are like a family, a cohesive unit that brings their musical talent together creating music that unifies all people.

Sassy Ramoutar - One of the top ChutneySoca female artists Born in Brooklyn, NY to Trinidadian parents it was no surprise that she would follow her talented family’s footsteps in the Musical Industry. At the age of 11 she decided to join the family band and started singing. Her first song was “Survivor” by Destinys Child. She has been influenced by many of the top recording artist in many Genres but she started singing R&B/ Pop/Dance for the first four years of musical career. At the age of 15, she joined a local band named Sensations Band where she learned how to sing Chutney and Soca. This is where her love and passion for her roots came in. She took some time off from singing to finish School. A few years later she decided to try harder and wanted to record her own song.

At the age of 19, She went to Trinidad and worked with the award winning Chutney producer Big Rich & the Pungalunks Factory to release her first ever solo track. The song did well but Her Next track “Something Harder” is What really got the attention of many. “Something Harder” was the #1 female Chutney Soca song of that year. Her next step was entering the Chutney Soca Monarch and being the youngest finalist and the first ever American to make it to the Finals. She came in 8th with her creative performance, lighted costuming and out of space theatrics. It was the first time for Trinidadians to get a taste of her creativity.

After the monarch she teamed up with SMJ’s Fruita Fruit juice. A multi billion dollar beverage company. Sassy Had released her summer hit “Good Time” and

wanted to do a music video. The lyrics of the song states “ah just come here to have a good time, free myself, take a drink and buss ah little wine”. To many the “take a drink” part would be interpreted as Alcoholic drinks, But Sassy was very conscious of her younger audience and did not want to encourage her fans to think that alcohol was needed to have a good time. Her concept was to make the song listenable for alcoholic drinkers and viewable for younger fans. She pitched the Idea to SMJ and they loved it. They sponsored her video and her for that season. Since then she has turned down the sponsorship of alcoholic beverage companies to upkeep a clean and healthy image for her fans.

Sassy also is a committee member for 2 Charity organizations. One of the organizations prepares hampers of food to donate to the less fortunate citizens of Trinidad & Tobago. The Other Organization Has built an orphanage in Bangladesh and has donated school supplies to many schools.

Today she is one of the top Chutney Soca Female artists. She has worked with Top Producers and has had many hits and has been one of the most touring female Artists in the industry. Sassy is well known for being versatile and her vocal techniques as well as her image. She is able to sing many genres of music due to her upbringing in the Melting pot. Due to her background of an Indian and Venezuelan mix she has an image that is very unique which truly makes her SASSY.

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Your Horoscope - November 6th 2013 Aries Horoscope (March 21-April 20): It’s been in the works for a while, and now it’ll sink in much deeper.

Through interactions, ponderings, probing, and events, the next few days yield a sharper, starker contrast. The stars spark progress regarding this outstanding or long-developing matter. Finances, career, health, work, or an intimate or key relationship plunge you into a full-steam-ahead next page.

Taurus Horoscope (April 21-May 21): You face a staredown with your past, your present, and your future. Reality holds you hostage regarding one of the most critical of decisions or toughest of consequences. Sunday’s eclipse is particularly catapulting for folks born on or near April 30 and May 1. A key person serves as an instrumental catalyst. Harness the corrective now for the monumental opportunity it provides.

deeper impact. Starting Tuesday, Venus in Capricorn provides you with more control.

Libra Horoscope (Sept. 23Oct. 22): Thinking big these days? Planning a major move or complete overhaul? Whether you’re in active pursuit or life comes to you, something of great worth is building. The now requires you to invest with full heart, mind, soul, and paycheque.

Joining Uranus/Pluto and the eclipse, Venus is also on a mission in a big way.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Through a remeet or personal look-back, the past fuels the here and now in some major way. In fact, it’s the springboard that now launches you. Whether it’s a result or a consequence, or it newly overtakes you, Sunday’s solar eclipse accelerates your ultimate turnaround, power-play, or time-has-come moment. A significant individual could enter or exit your life.

Gemini Horoscope (May 23June 20): Although the risk is more substantial now, so too is the potential benefit or impact.

Don’t skirt it; heed the signal and put your all into it. A new solution, method, tool, choice, therapy, strategy, or job can be your “it” ticket. As well, it can be advantageous to take the test again, retrace steps, consult, or review with a professional, a specialist, an expert, or an authority.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov. 22-Dec. 20): Over the next few days, something unexpected could open up for you.

Even if it comes out of the blue, you’re likely to admit you had a feeling it was on brew all along. Planet-wise and people-wise, you have more help in your corner, more to bank on, and more to gain than is readily apparent.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21July 20): If you’re looking to make a major career, personal, or love-life advance, you’ve come to the right life intersection. Sunday’s solar eclipse creates an auspicious backdrop for all new or newly revised projects, ambitions, undertakings, and involvements. You are poised at a peak karmic recall threshold. What’s of vital importance is how you choose it and live it from here.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec. 21-Jan. 20): You’ve been working toward a major career, financial, personal, and lifestyle overhaul for quite some time now. Whether provoked or inspired, Uranus/Pluto and Sunday’s solar eclipse see you turn a sharp corner. There’s still more time to put in and more Mercury retrograde to get through, but starting Tuesday, Venus in Capricorn enhances opportunity and rewards action.

Leo Horoscope (July 21-Aug. 22): Beyond an intensified concentration on family, home renovations, investments, and money matters, Saturn and Mercury retrograde in Scorpio continue to keep you deeply submerged in your internal process. The profound inner change that’s occurring for you is especially rich soil.

Uranus/Pluto and Sunday’s solar eclipse set a productive backdrop for work, health matters, problem solving, corrections, fixes, and conquering yourself.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan. 21-Feb. 18): It’s likely been a long time in the works, and it’ll continue to progress over time. Uranus/Pluto and Sunday’s solar eclipse put pedal to the metal regarding a career, financial, relationship, or reality-base overhaul. What’s exposed, ends, or begins may or may not be what you envisioned or expected, but label it as necessary.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug. 23Sept. 22): Take the ball and run with it. Confidence builder Mars in Virgo is at peak on Thursday/Friday, but it will continue to stoke Sunday’s eclipse with positive fuel. The now offers you an exceptional window of opportunity to advance the conversation, renegotiate, or make an important correction, improvement, or

Pisces Horoscope (Feb. 18-March 20): Your future can surprise you suddenly, or it may continue as a steppingstone process. A key someone features prominently. Sunday’s solar eclipse can put you back in the game, at the top of your game. Watch for timely news, a lucrative prospect, a travel or relocation opportunity, a significant reconnect, talk, offer, invitation, revelation, or departure.

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Networking to get results at events!

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 daily 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.

26 Wednesday, November 6, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Is passive income just a fairy tale?

The magnificent beast that is said to shower riches upon those who find it Here is a simplified way of thinking about the process:

Tina Dietz Business Development Somewhere…out there in the business wilderness there exists a legendary creature called Passive Income. This magnificent beast, who is said to shower riches upon those that find it, is the quarry of many a questing entrepreneur. Promises of freedom and wealth without effort! Checks and PayPal notices just showing up in your inbox as if rained down from the heavens!

Ah, but how to capture this famed and wondrous chimera? Is it just a myth told by shysters to relieve unwitting folk of their hard earned money?

No. Passive income exists. But the path that leads there is anything but passive.

The mechanics of creative passive or semi-passive income streams are relatively simple. You create, license, or distribute a product through primarily online sales or phone sales, and that product is delivered through automated channels. Think of it as an assembly line.

- You find or create a product you want to sell

or completely eliminated. That is, once the product is sold, unless there’s an issue with someone getting the product into their hands or it’s somehow defective, you don’t have to deal with it.

How do you get products to sell?

- You create a point of distribution (I.E. a website) - You create the marketing, visibility, and sales strategies (and implement them!) to draw your target market to your point of sale - Assuming you’ve created a persuasive sales process for your product and demonstrated value, people buy the product - The sales order is fulfilled through automated means (I.E. an auto responder, fulfillment house, etc.)

If you pay attention to this process, you’ll notice that just like in any other business model, it’s a combination of technical, managerial, and marketing skills that make the process work. Primarily though, where you will find yourself spending the majority of your time working with passive income streams is in the marketing end of the spectrum. Again, this is true with all business models, but especially with passive income streams. The beauty of this model is that the burden of product fulfillment is eased

There are lots of ways to create passive income products, or acquire products to sell, and these are a couple of the most popular.

Probably the one that comes first to mind for most people is network marketing products, sometimes also called multi-level marketing. This is a perfectly legit business model, and network marketing is a billion dollar industry worldwide. Personally, I prefer to have total control over my business policies, procedures, and product lines, but if that’s not an issue for you or you’ve never owned a business before, it’s not a bad way to get your feet wet.

Distributing products that are already created is another obvious choice. You can go to a wholesaler and create a “drop ship” agreement with them where you are selling the product, but they are fulfilling the order. For newbies at this kind of business model, Amazon.com is a good place to start. You can create an “A-Store” as part of your existing website where you recommend products that are already on Amazon.

If someone purchases through your website, Amazon fulfills the order, but you get a com-

mission on the sale.

My favorite passive or semi-passive products are information products.

While any business can benefit from creating this type of product (really, ANY business), it’s an especially nice fit for those in the service industries. Why? Because the service industries are often limited in the amount of income they can generate because in providing a service you are trading time for money. By adding products to your business model, you can exponentially grow your earning potential while still protecting your brand and spreading your expert status.

Information products can be very simple or very complex, but getting started with them is very easy with minimal investment. Special reports, E-Books, Home Study Courses, DVDs, Educational Video Series, and Podcasts are all examples (and there are more!) of information products beautifully suited for businesses who provide services.

Would you like to expand your business ventures to include passive income? Got ideas but not sure how to fulfill them? Share your thoughts, comments, and questions on a blog. We can only crack the binding on this beautiful fairy tale here, but when you’re ready to go deeper there’s a complimentary no strings attached consultation thisistinadietz.com/contact waiting for you. Have a fantastical week!