Back In Black 012716

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BACK IN BLACK Toronto Black Film Festival Announces their 2016 Cinematic Experiences

ALYSSA MAHADEO/TORONTO CARIBBEAN One might argue that the world would look better if everything was in black and white.

The Toronto Black Film Festival (TBFF) is back in town, celebrating its fourth year, just in time to mark the annual festivities of Black History Month. Presented this year

by Global News in collaboration with TD Bank this brilliant and highly anticipated festival runs from February 10 –14th featuring the best that black cinema has to offer.

This year the line-up includes eight world premieres, with forty four films to be screened emerging from twenty countries, including Belgium, the Bahamas, Canada, Cameroon, Cuba, Dominican Republic, France, Germany, Haiti, Nigeria,

Portugal, South Africa, Spain, Trinidad & Tobago, Nigeria, the UK and the United States of America.

The TBFF was founded by the Fabienne Colas Foundation and is dedicated to commemorating the very best in cinematic work focusing on the familiarities of black people from a diversity of communities. Their mission is to provide an equal chance for filmmakers from all ethnic backgrounds to share their own unique perspective on the everyday realities faced by people of the black communities. The TBFF offers their podium to new voices in cinema and encourages audiences to see the world through the lens of diversity.

Coinciding with Black History

Month, the TBFF is proud to host another year in celebration of diversity within the black communities with a collection of powerful films, exciting panels and special events throughout the week. “TBFF showcases the most outstanding and amazing black films while creating a space to debate major cultural, social and socio-economic issues,” said Fabienne Colas, President and Founder of the TBFF. “Festival goers will have the chance to see actors and directors from here and abroad sharing their passions. There’s something there for everyone!”

Continued On Page 5

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feature

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 27, 2016 Tor

Peel Police Chief Jennifer Evans; Enforcing the laws of community knowledge Born in the bright and beautiful city of Toronto, Peel Police Chief Jennifer Evans was raised in Scarborough as one of five kids.

Ever since she was a little girl she knew that she wanted to be a police officer. After graduating high school, she attended Seneca College for policing and during one summer got a job in corrections where she was first introduced to the Peel Police. Jennifer wasn’t interested in working in Toronto where she grew up and so instead she came out to Brampton where she applied in 1982, and the very next year she was hired on as a cadet.

Jennifer ventured into the adventurous world of policing, since she couldn’t fathom the idea of a mundane nine to five desk job, instead hoping to revel in the excitement of meeting new people and interact with the citizens in the community. The opportunity to enforce justice, catching bad guys and saving lives was her calling. Her parents always taught her the importance of making the right decisions, explaining how, “It’s not always easy to do the right thing, but it’s always the right thing to do.”

Before she was hired on as a

cadet, Jennifer honed her other skills working in customer service as a cashier and as a lifeguard at the Boys and Girls Club in Scarborough. She took advantage of her athletic abilities in high school joining all of the various sports teams, relishing the prospect of playing for her school’s basketball, volleyball and track teams. Knowing exactly what she wanted from such an early age, motivated her to pursue her career in policing and Jennifer joined the force at the young age of nineteen becoming the first police officer in her family.

Since joining the force, there have been many great men and women who have inspired Jennifer to make decisions and take action. However her parents remain her biggest role models, supporting her every step of the way, nurturing her dream and motivating her to attain a career as an officer. She carries with her and implements their teachings in every decision she makes, taking any opportunity to grow and develop, doing whatever it takes to accomplish her goals.

During the course of her career as an officer, the Police Chief has taken her challenges in stride, viewing them instead as great opportunities presented to accomplish even greater things. She has been fortunate to work alongside dedicated and supportive peers that never judged her for being female, but recognized her for her commitment and hard work, reflecting her abilities to hold her own. Being the Police Chief is a challenging job, having to be responsible for the 3,000 people in the organization and the 1.3 million people that are policed in the Region of Peel.

“It’s a job that I love; everyday there are matters that need to be addressed, so much good police work being done, crimes that need to be addressed and community safety issues so that [citizens] can understand the jobs officers have to do.”

The Peel Police Chief has been working hard to promote more community outreach programs implementing advisory councils for the Muslim Community and the Black Community creating a partnership and developing a community liaison where she could hear first hand from the leaders in the community and they can come and discuss the various issues they might have. She hopes that by building these stronger partnerships these communities will feel confident enough to reach out to the police in times of need.

For the women of the community aspiring to achieve greatness she encourages them to, “Always take advantage of opportunities that you are presented with, women need to step out of their comfort zones, widening their scope and vision, to be willing to take opportunities to challenge themselves.”

The Peel Police Chief encourages those members of the community seeking knowledge on the laws and safety concerns of the city to take the time to educate themselves, as it will benefit everyone and help towards relaying the message and building a safer and comprehensible future for us all.

Written by Alyssa Mahadeo Toronto Caribbean Reporter

Wednesday, January 27, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

community

Fitz “The Whip” Vanderpool: The man behind the boxing gloves Emily Singh

emily@carib101.com

TC Reporter “With hope it’s possible.” These are the words that Fitzroy “The Whip” Vanderpool lives by.

Born in Trinidad, Vanderpool went on to become a renowned professional world boxer with six titles under his belt. Vanderpool’s successful career took off in 1996 when he became the Canadian Welterweight Champion. In the following year, Vanderpool dominated the ring yet again and became the World Boxing Federation Inter-Continental Champion. Inside the ring, Vanderpool proved to be a force to be reckoned with. In 1998, he took home the title of World Boxing Council Fecarbox Champion and the following year the World Boxing Federation World Championship.

But who is Fitz “The Whip” Vanderpool outside of the room? Simple, he is a humanitarian by nature. After settling in Kitchener, Ontario and establishing a name for himself he decided to give back to the community. In 2003, Vanderpool fulfilled one of his long time dreams and opened his own boxing academy in Kitchener, Ontario. The Whip Boxing Academy is a state of the art facility that provides a place for young people to learn the art of box-

ing while building self-confidence, self-esteem and self-discipline.

The Kitchener-Waterloo area holds a special place in Vanderpool’s heart. After leaving his birthplace of Trinidad at the age of five, Kitchener soon became home for the Vanderpool’s. Aside from being an accomplished boxer, he is also an avid educator and role model within the community. Vanderpool regularly visits local school within the area to educate children on the importance of hard work and the tremendous impact education can have in ones life. As Nelson Mandela once said “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Taking these wise words to heart, Vanderpool is an advocate for staying in school and pursuing your education. Vanderpool also devotes his time to participating in read-a-thons at local schools in and around the Kitchener-Waterloo area.

For Vanderpool, boxing was something that ran in his blood. Growing up in a family of boys, he watched as his two older brothers took up the sport and was immediately intrigued.

“My father started my older brother in boxing. He was a tall, skinny kid who got picked on often, so he told him he had to defend himself,” says Vanderpool. “Eventually after my two older brothers got involved with boxing, my father got myself and my two younger brothers into it.”

This is a lot to be said about a name; after all it becomes a part of your identity and who you are. Vanderpool took on the nickname “The Whip” which stands for ‘with hope it’s possible’ and stands by every word of that and encourages others to do the same.

“I tell people if they have a goal or a dream or something they want to accomplish they need to believe in themselves, work hard and make the sacrifices necessary,” says Vanderpool. “The bottom line is if you want to be successful you have to work hard.”

Giving back to the community is especially important to Vanderpool especially as he gears up for the 2016 Celebrity Men’s Fashion Event for the Grand River Hospital.

All proceeds from this amazing event go towards the Kidney Foundation of Canada.

It doesn’t stop there, in addition to being a successful boxer, educator, role model and humanitarian he is also an accomplished writer! Vanderpool published his biography entitled “The Whip” in 2009 where he shares with the world his journey to becoming one the most recognized Canadian athlete of all time.

Although Vanderpool is now retired from his professional boxing career, he hasn’t hung up the gloves quite yet! His passion and fire for boxing still burns strong as he continues to train other at his boxing academy and works tirelessly within the community to keep boxing alive.

Be sure to catch Fitz “The Whip” on Sunday, April 24th 2016 at the upcoming Toronto Caribbean Business Expo.

PAGE 3

NO CREDIT CHECKS

INSTANT APPROVAL

Register now for Kindergarten If your child was born in 2012, he or she can start kindergarten in September 2016 All Peel District School Board elementary schools are now open for kindergarten registration for the 2016–17 school year.

To register, drop by the school your child will attend any time during school hours.

Elementary schools will also hold special events and school tours during Kindergarten Registration Week on Feb. 1, 2, 3 and 4 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and from 5 to 8 p.m. on Feb. 4. Join us to learn more about our exciting kindergarten program! www.peelschools.org/kindergarten

Wednesday, January 27, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Back in black Alyssa Mahadeo

alyssa@carib101.com

TC Reporter Continued From Page 1 -- TBFF is excited to rekindle their partnership with Global News again this year and welcome TD Bank as co-presenters in alliance with TD’s 2016 Black History Month Series celebrating the arts and culture of the city.

Opening night presentation is entitled THINA SOBABILI (The Two of Us), an emotional and touching drama about two siblings who find themselves in a strained relationship when the possibilities of a different life is an opportunity one must take in order to find happiness. Directed by Ernest Nkosi this film was South Africa’s submission to the Academy Awards for the Best Foreign Language Film Category.

Marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of the Black Panther Party the TBFF is honored to present The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution, which is the first feature length documentary commemorating The Black Panthers directed

by Stanley Nelson. Other noteworthy documentaries include Soul on Ice: Past, Present Future, directed by Damian Kwame, recounting the legacy of black hockey players, Game Face by Michiel Thomas, about gay and transgendered athletes and In My Father’s House, directed Ricki Stern and Annie Sundberg, about the hip hop artist Che “Rhymefest” Smith and his attempts to reconnect with his alcoholic father.

Closing Night will host Mark Donford-May’s BREATHE UMPHEFUMLO a tribute to the Puccini opera La Boheme. This alluring musical drama displaces struggling students from Paris to a South African shantytown. Whilst fighting amongst themselves for food and water, the take no notice that one individual in their entourage is suffering from TB. Venues for this year’s screenings include Carlton Cinema, the Isabel Bader Theatre, Jackman Hall, and Théâtre de l’Alliance Française and Collège Boréal all located at various points in the city.

New additions to this year’s festival is the TBFF Black Market, which is a series of industry panels and workshops with internationally renowned leaders, experts and visionaries who will shed some light on today’s most critical filmmaking issues. Special events to look forward to include a Q&A discussion with The Book Of Negros award-winning director Clement Virgo, alongside a panel discussion about the diversity on screen featuring awardwinning filmmaker Trey Anthony as well as a workshop organized by Actra Toronto on the How and Why of Making short films.

Also in collaboration with G98.7 one of their many sponsors, G.98.7 will host a “real-talk” session about the realities of the film industry, touching on topics that include: Diversity on the Screen, Black Women Entrepreneurs, How to Break into Acting and Is Basketball more than a game?

This year’s featured guests include casting agent Warren Beatty and former CFL player Damon Alan.

Films screened at this year’s festival will be vying for the title of TBFF Audience Choice and winners will be announced on Closing Night.

“The beauty of the Toronto Black Film Festival is that we don’t just appeal to one group in the community we have a broad Torontonian audience comprised of Black people, White people, Indian people, Latino people, it doesn’t matter who you are everyone comes to see those films,” explains Colas. “The audience is very diverse, which is pleasing to see when all of the different races come together in one room to celebrate everyone’s heritage and culture.”

Tickets for the TBFF are available online where you can purchase a priority all access passport card to all events for $140 or $10 for all individual film presentations with the exception of opening night at $25.

Festival goers are encouraged to help the festival flourish in the years to come by making a donation, spreading the word or getting involved as a volunteer or become an Ambassador.

A full list of events films and timings can be found online at www.TorontoBlackFilm.com including exciting synopsis and so many enticing films to choose from, this isn’t an event you want to miss. The TBFF runs from February 10-14th, and will continue to serve the diversity of the people for years to come.

community

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PAGE 7

Community leaders participate in a joint effort to work together on the vision of tomorrow Alyssa Mahadeo

alyssa@carib101.com

TC Reporter Here we are in a new year, with new goals and one inspiring vision. The arduous mission of changing the world for the better and creating a better, brighter future falls to the citizens that inhabit the earth.

On Monday January 18th inside Jamaica National, an exclusive group of community leaders were invited to participate in an open discussion to talk about a new vision, one that promises to undertake the exciting task of focusing on the community and implementing new ideas to create a better more impactful future.

This elite gathering dubbed Community Leader Mixer hosted by Jamaica National Building Society and the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper and included some easily recognizable names of active community leaders such as Vivion Scully, Warren Salmon, Linden King, Philip Rose, Dewitt Lee, Mary Galvan, Alain Arthur and Ash Silva. These individuals are thoroughly involved or are leaders of organizations dedicated to implementing new and awe-inspiring ideas. This conversation was organized to allow the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper to share their vision of being a community focused newspaper, presenting their platform as a way to reach out to those willing to help make that vi-

sion a reality.

The evening commenced with an introduction and welcoming of those invited, by Jamaica National Chief Executive Officer Jerrold Johnson sharing a little bit about Jamaica National and their own undertaking to help foster the Jamaican Diaspora living in Canada. Everyone in the room was asked to stand and introduce themselves informing everyone of who they are, which organization they work for and what type of work they are involved with in the community. Each individual, brought something unique to the table and it prompted important discussions about similar ideas, joining forces and working together as one unit.

The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, launched their new vision at the beginning of this year hoping to start a movement to creating a necessary and beneficial communication as a community effort. At the center of that mission you will find local organizations fueled by dedicated people who are passionate about building a better future for all of us. They celebrate community-based organizations through the influence of our platforms resources, time and talent. In organizing this meeting we hope that together we can build the right foundation for our community and leave our mark in society.

By utilizing the platform of The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper it will offer a voice through which the community can share and communicate their ideas to promote positive change. By starting from within the Caribbean community we can work together and expand on ideas of how we can help create a better tomorrow to

be maintained by future generations. Although we are branded as a Caribbean Newspaper, it is important for us to remember that no one race is above the other and we must take pride in the multiculturalism of our city, as it allows for us to experience the diversity of the world.

The ultimate objective of facilitating an event like this was to bring everyone on the same page. Each of these organizations are doing something impactful within the community and there are challenges that they might encounter along the way that could be aided by the support of some of the other organizations who have the means of carrying these projects forward. The information provided was insightful and encourages humanity to conquer intimidating circumstances and celebrate the authenticity of establishing a stronger connection to a healthier tomorrow.

Wise words once foretold that every man is the artisan of his own fortune. When the newspaper was initially launched, Grant and Trish Browning didn’t know what direction they were going to take. However they knew that they were not going to be just another community newspaper. Over the years, working with people and forming partnerships with companies like Jamaica National they manifested into something amazing and now with this new vision are working towards creating a synergy where together we can do more and benefit all parties involved while also stabilizing the foundation of the community.

Taking this step is a crucial part of what we need to do in order to build a bet-

ter stronger community. Grant Browning CEO and Founder of the Toronto Caribbean Community explains, “It’s about putting the unity in Community. The newspaper was meant to be an opportunity to start a non-biased and truthful paper without being political.” The response in the community spoke for itself, demonstrating the need for something of this nature that would unite the community towards a common goal. “In promoting positive change, we have since implemented events like the Toronto Caribbean Business Expo, Women Empowered and Business Features in the community.” These things have yielded amazing results and feedback from people who are thankful that they are being noticed, uplifted and more importantly being recognized for the work that they do every single day.

The power and reach of the media has the ability to start a ripple effect where “Building a stronger community is possible, you just have to start small and make a difference. We want people to see the power of the community and the strength of the community and the only way that can happen is by working together.

If you were not in attendance and would like to find out more information, or would like to get involved, please contact Grant Browning from The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper at grant@carib101.com or Jerrold Johnson from Jamaica National Building Society at Jerrold@jnbs.com.

Be proud of the work and the possibilities of what we can do when we all work towards the same goals, band together and see how we can make things possible.

PAGE 8

community

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 27, 2016

The BBPA celebrates the journey and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. Alyssa Mahadeo

alyssa@carib101.com

TC Reporter Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “ If you can’t fly, then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”

MLK had a dream to end the legal segregation of African-American citizens in the south. Through his activism, he played a pivotal role in giving a voice to this cause, ending the segregation and creating the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Dr. King set out to make a difference, to create and implement positive change in our society so that people could be freed from the bonds of slavery.

We are currently living in the dream envisioned by MLK all those years ago, thankful for his movement and his ability to stand up for what he believed in, doing what is right to benefit people of society. Our job, as citizens of the new world is to maintain and continue to build that legacy that he has left behind. To continue to foster his work, address the issues of oppression and to rise above the negativity so the next generation can live in harmony.

On Saturday January 16th inside the McVety Center in Toronto, The Black Business & Professional Association (BBPA) invited distinguished members and citizens of the community to come together and celebrate the journey of Martin Luther King Jr. while also facilitating the discussion about how we can continue to carry on his work promoting equality, nurturing and recognizing excellence.

Inspired by his leadership, the 17th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebrations are a testament to his efforts. Founded in 1983, the BBPA is a non-profit, charitable

organization that addresses equity and opportunity for the Black community in business, employment, education and economic development.

The evening commenced with a ceremonial fanfare as community dignitaries entered the hall. Those distinguished members of the community included Toronto Mayor John Tory, Liberal MP Ahmed Hussen, MPP Mitzie Hunter, MPP Jagmeet Singh of the NDP, Toronto Chief of Police Mark Saunders, York Region Deputy Chief of Police Andre Crawford, President of Ont. Conference Dr. Mansfield Edwards, Andre Lucas from Toronto Dominion Bank and Gwyn Chapman Strategic Youth Advisor for the City of Toronto. Dignitaries were invited to the stage to give a few words on behalf of their respective government parties and organizations to welcome the audience to the BBPA’s momentous presentation.

Throughout the evening the audience was treated to high energy, powerful and enlightening performances by the Crawford Academy Jazz Ensemble and Concert Choir, Ubuntu Drum & Dance Theatre, Dynamic Praise, Perth Exalted Praise, and Ray Robinson. Special presentations of spoken word included Ajay Lee Gordon with a rendition of MLK’s speech ‘I have a Dream’, Krystene Robinson’s ‘The Struggle is Real’, Leanne Prendergast on Empowering Women to love their lives and Nadine Williams sharing some personal and poetic lyrics entitled Pride in My Stride. All of these talented, motivated and hard working young people delivered mighty words of respect and wisdom inspired by the legacy built by Martin Luther King Jr. Each tribute offered it’s own unique restorative, about overcoming the words and actions of oppression, eradicating self-doubt and encouraging new dreams to fuel and carry on the legacy.

Pauline Christian, President of the BBPA shared, “After seventeen years we still have people who are willing to work together to make a difference. Let freedom reign, if freedom doesn’t reign there will be hate onto you; if freedom doesn’t reign we

cannot help our students go to school and we may not have any students in our community able to go to school, freedom will walk away when we do not appoint our own and we wait round sitting there feeling comfortable and do not help contribute back to the legacy.”

Three young women were recognized for their hard work and dedication in academic achievements presented with the Dr. Martin Luther King Scholarships.

Pursuing education at private schools in Toronto, Kahlia Picart, Shantal Small and Chrystal Pinnock were commended on their outstanding commitments in hopes that they continue to use their knowledge to carry on the legacy. These young women represent the future and aspiring leaders, people that will cultivate and sustain the dream of being free.

The diversity of Canadian living has presented the black community with a new perspective on life. Dreams cost us nothing, imagination is cheap and we can allow it to run wild with the possibilities. Our jobs are to maintain and build on the legacy left to us by Dr. King using our courage and determination to go on despite the obstacles we might face.

The Keynote address for the nights celebrations were wise words of encouragement brought by Pastor Dedrick L. Blue who proclaimed, “We all want the same thing, we all want to be heard, the cry of humanity is for peace and justice. We can measure our progress of the dream of MLK against the cost of achievement, dreams require commitment and in reality we must surmount those obstacles.”

Dr. King believed that humanity has the ability and the responsibility to bring about positive and lasting change. His messages of social justice, service and non-violent action continues to resonate within the hearts of the people and through the support of the community the message does not fall on deaf ears. “We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.”

-MLK

Matilda Elma Van Cooten passes away at 98 Emily Singh

emily@carib101.com

TC Reporter It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of a great mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Matilda Elma Van Cooten at the age of 98. Van Cooten, mother of Pride News Magazine publisher Michael Van Cooten passed away at the Stream Villa nursing home located in Cobourg, Ontario.

Van Cooten immigrated to Canada in 1975 after her son Michael sponsored her. Prior to moving to Canada, Van Cooten

served as a career domestic in Georgetown, Guyana. On May 24th Van Cooten would have celebrated her 99th birthday. Nonetheless, Van Cooten lived a full and joyful life surrounded by friends, family and loved ones who will forever keep her memory alive.

Van Cooten was a single mother of four to the late Danny, Lynette-Williams, Michael and Roland who is also deceased.

Out of love and admiration for her father, Nicholas Van Cooten she made the choice to remain a spinster for the duration of her life so that her sons would carry on the surname and legacy of her dear father.

Van Cooten is pre-deceased by her mother, Matilda; father, Nicholas; brother, Claude Thorne; sisters, Enid Smith and Rosebud Van Cooten; sons, Danny and Roland; nephews, Hubert Thorne and Clifford Smith; and son-in-law, Michael Williams.

In addition to being a loving moth-

er, Van Cooten was also a beloved grandmother to Rudolph (Junior), Ron, Sandra, Andy, Mykella, Shiren, Yolanda, Vanessa, Donnavan, Narissa, Anthony, Shonique, Radiant, Brianna and Aaliyah. She was also blessed with eighteen beautiful great grand children in her lifetime.

In 2002, Michael Van Cooten created a new category of the Canadian Achievement Awards of Excellence entitled the Single Parent Award to honour his beloved mother. She was the very first recipient of this prestigious award.

Matilda Elma Van Cooten will be greatly missed by all of her loved ones as well as the Caribbean community. The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper would like to offer their sincere condolences to Michael Van Cooten of the Pride News Magazine and his entire family circle during this difficult time.

PAGE 10

jamaica news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Anthony Hylton welcomes Jamaicaʼs Forbes ranking JAMAICA -- Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce Anthony Hylton has welcomed Jamaica’s ranking as the Best Country in the Caribbean to do Business for the second year in a row.

The Forbes Best Countries for Business Report showed Jamaica’s improvement from 64th in the 2014 report to 59th in the 2015 report, making it the top country in the Caribbean to do business, and third in Latin America and the Caribbean.

According to a news release from the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, the latest rankings follow strong results in the major global business indices.

In the 2016 Doing Business Report, Jamaica was named among the 10 most improved economies for doing business in the world. The country’s ranking moved from 71st to 64th in the world, placing Jamaica as first in the Caribbean in respect of the ease of doing business, and sixth in Latin America and the Caribbean.

In the 2015-2016 Global Competitiveness Report, Jamaica maintained its overall competitiveness but improved its performance on procedures for starting a business, ranking third globally and 8th in the legal

Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister Anthony Hylton | Photo: Jamaica Observer

rights index, the release continued.

The minister notes that the latest ranking is a significant move forward for Jamaica and an indication of the hard work carried out during the past four years by his ministry, along with the other Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), and the Na-

tional Competitiveness Council.

“This is welcomed news, but in many ways it is not a surprise... it is a confirmation of the investments, growth and job creation we are witnessing in the BPO, tourism, logistics, and manufacturing sectors. Indeed, the Forbes ranking is further validation

that the macro and micro policies and programmes of the Government are steering the Jamaican economy in the right direction,” Minister Hylton stated.

In the 2014-2015 financial year, the ministry said through JAMPRO it facilitated $27.1 billion in capital expenditure, created 8,261 jobs and facilitated US$225.5 million in export sales.

Minister Hylton, while acknowledging the positive business rankings, expressed his commitment to further improvements to the Jamaican business environment.

According to the minister, the hard work that was put in to improve Jamaica’s business environment is now paying off.

“From here on, there must be no turning back. We must continue the momentum and focus on those areas that still need to be improved,” he said.

The release said the ministry recently piloted the Special Economic Zone Act, the Limited Partnership Act and the General Partnership Act. The legislations are said to be critical components in the realisation of the logistics-centered economy.

- Jamaica Observer

Wednesday, January 27, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Bolt drops 2020 hint, targets new 200m record JAMAICA -- Usain Bolt says he has considered the possibility of extending his remarkable sprinting career to the 2020 Olympics — but is targeting a history-making new world 200m record at this year’s Rio de Janeiro games first.

The Jamaican sprint star has repeatedly said he plans to hang up his spikes after the 2017 World Championships in London, bringing the curtain down on a record-breaking career that has included six Olympic gold medals.

However, the 29-year-old toldTelevision Jamaica in an interview aired on Sunday that his Coach Glen Mills had suggested he was capable of running in a fourth Olympics if he chose to.

“The coach says I can go on to even the next Olympics in 2020,” Bolt said.

“But I’m not gonna say what I’m gonna do. My coach says I should stop talking about it all the time; let’s just go through these two years and see what happens.”

Pressed further on the possibility of an Olympic swansong in Japan, Bolt added: “We’ll see. The older you get, the harder the training gets.

“So 32, 33, 34, it’s going to be a lot of work — if I feel I can do it, I’ll definitely try. But, for me, I want to retire on top of my game.

“I don’t want to continue if I know I’m not going to push myself hard enough.”

Bolt said he had taken on board advice from US sprint great and former

Olympic 200m and 400m champion Michael Johnson as he mulled his future.

“I asked Michael Johnson. I said, ‘Why did you retire, when you were dominating?’. He said, ‘Listen, I’ve done everything in the sport, I was on top, why should I continue?’” Bolt revealed, adding he did not want to emulate NBA legend Michael Jordan who returned unsuccessfully after retiring.

“He left the sport when he was great and he came back and made a small mockery of his career a little bit,” Bolt said.

“I don’t want to put myself in the same position, with other people stepping up while I’m going backwards.”

In the short term, Bolt said he is determined to light up this year’s Olympics in Rio, where he will be attempting to defend his 100m and 200m titles for a thirdstraight occasion.

Bolt revealed he is targeting a new world record in the 200m, hoping to become the first man to duck beneath 19 seconds.

“If everything goes as planned it’s going to be an awesome Olympics,” Bolt said. “That’s the main aim. Everyone wants me to win again, but what they really want to see is records.

“One of the big records I want is the 200. What I want is sub-19 — the first man to ever have done it, it would be a game-changer.”

- Jamaica Observer

23 arrested for illegal gambling, BGLC reports JAMAICA -- The Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Commission (BGLC) is reporting that there have been 23 arrests for illegal gambling and related crimes, since it signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Organised Crime Investigation Division (OCID) of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) more than a year ago.

The Commission has also noted that there have been seven convictions during that period.

Chairman of the BGLC, Gary Peart, said as a result of the MoU, signed in October 2014, the two entities have been able to be more incisive in their investigations and the gathering of intelligence.

Peart was speaking in an interview with JIS News on January 22, during a consultation meeting with government officials from the Turks and Caicos Islands, to aid that country in the formulation of its gaming legislation and regulations.

Under the MoU, OCID provides the BGLC with additional personnel as well as investigative, surveillance, technical and specialist support to help in the prosecution of crimes detected under the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Act. Peart said the BGLC has also been able to provide the police with additional equipment to further boost its capacity to carry out raids and do investigations.

“Since then, we have seen an in-

crease in the number of convictions and the types of people we are catching now.

It has increased significantly. The reality is that we have gotten much better at it,” he added.

He announced that within the next three months, the BGLC will be launching a hotline where the public can call in with information about illegal gaming, which will result in faster response times.

“What this collaboration does is that once that information comes in, we can pull together operations much quicker to try and get out there. We believe for this year, we will see more activity from the enforcement team, because once people realise that there will be sanctions, that’s the only way you can combat this,” the chairman said.

An estimated $10 billion in industry revenue is lost annually due to the proliferation of illegal gambling and related activities, with probable links to the illegal weapons trade and money laundering.

The Betting, Gaming & Lotteries Commission is a statutory body of the Ministry of Finance and Planning, established in 1975 under the provisions of the Betting, Gaming & Lotteries Act 1965 (Amended 2010), to regulate and control the conduct of betting, gaming and lotteries in Jamaica.

- Jamaica Observer

jamaica news

PAGE 11

Wednesday, January 27, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

guyana news

PAHO celebrates Guyanaʼs health at 50 GUYANA -- In observance of Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary, the PanAmerican Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) will be reflecting on achievements in the health sector over the past 50 years. Health Systems and Service Advisor, Dr Paul Edwards said PAHO/ WHO Guyana Office is capitalising on this opportunity to reflect, compile and present on the achievements and challenges in the local health sector.

Dr Edwards made this disclosure on Monday during a ‘Brown Bag Meeting with the Media’ at the Country Office, Brickdam.

PAHO/WHO Country Representative Dr William Adu Krow, Chief Medical Officer Dr Shamdeo Persaud and Health Ministry’s Permanent Secretary Trevor Thomas were among the officials presenting during the meeting.

A photo gallery book, a progress health report, an award ceremony and health fair are among the activities planned by the health organisation.

Dr Edwards explained that there will be a photo gallery book and progress health report at the Marriott International Hotel on May 12 at 9:00h. There would also be an award ceremony, starting at 6:30pm at the same location. This ceremony will acknowledge persons who have made out-

standing contributions to the health sector.

“A consultant has been hired for the development of this report; the outline of the report has been established and the writing of the report is in the initial stages.

This report will compile useful information that comprehensively chronicles health achievements and development, including health status, over the years 1966-2016,” he explained. For this report, data would be collected from the Public Health Ministry, the National Library and National Newspaper.

However, information will also be sourced from research and interviews.

“It is envisioned that it will benefit a wide array of persons including the current health sector, students, and the public. It will also present a foundation that would inform development planning,” Dr Edwards said as he alluded to the progress of the health report.

The date for the health fair which is being held in collaboration with the Public Health Ministry, has not been finalised.

However, the health symposium will be conducted at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre on May 13.

Notably, PAHO/WHO Director, Dr Carissa Etienne and past country representatives who worked during the period of Independence have been invited.

The Chief Medical Officer, in de-

livering brief remarks, said Guyana’s health system has passed through many stages since Independence.

“Unfortunately for us at the Ministry, we had two major fires and those fires took away a lot of the historic evidence on some of the work that was done at the Ministry in the past.”

He noted that prior to Independence, Guyana had placed major emphasis on sanitation and hygiene, and unfortunately this remains a problem.

“We are still plagued with a lot of sanitation issues. So I think although that has been an early engagement for health, we still have a lot of work to do in this area.”

Subsequent to Independence, the CMO said a lot of focus was placed on food and nutrition, mainly to address the issue of malnutrition.

“We used to have severe malnutrition problems, particularly in the hinterland and in remote areas. Communicable diseases were of major concern,” he explained.

Dr Persaud said today HIV/AIDS, mental health – including suicide, accidents, violence and injuries are of major concern to local health authorities. But these issues, he assured, will be addressed head-on during the execution of the revised Health Vision 2020 Strategy.

- Guyana Chronicle

Essequibo youths crave more attention GUYANA -- YOUTHS at Charity on the Essequibo Coast are calling on the relevant authorities responsible for the day-to-day activities within the area to pay more attention to their wellbeing.

“We want people to pay more attention to what the youths want in Charity,” said Charity resident, Godfrey Stull.

During a recent visit to the Charity Community Centre, where a number of youths were gathered for an afternoon game of football, the Guyana Chronicle seized the opportunity to find out from them what were some of the problems they were having in the Cinderella County.

According to Stull, “The bigger ones don’t really come around and talk to us; everything that is done on the (Community Centre) Ground is done by private people.

“If If th thee Gr Grou Ground ound nd hhas as tto o we weed weed, ed, pe peop people ople le llike ikee me ik

would get it done; pay people to do it.”

A few players who were present also chimed in, with one saying: “We’re glad to speak, because people don’t come to Charity and ask us what’s going on, or what we need; nothing at all. But when they want us to vote for them, they come.”

Stull, who’s a member of the Charity Extreme Football Club, said that while Essequibo is known for producing some of Guyana’s top cricketers, in Charity, a vast majority of youths have a keen interest in football.

“Sometimes, close to 200 youths of all ages would be on the Ground, so, we would be grateful if someone could donate some equipment to the club,” he said.

The Essequibo resident said that though the Essequibo Football Association (EFA (E (EFA) FA)) is still sti till ll ggetting etti et ting ng iits ts ffeet eett we ee wet wet, t, iitt wo woul would uldd

be a good thing if the Ministry of Education, through the Department of Sports and the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), can find a way to support all the clubs in Charity.

With regards to the RDC, it was said that Council should look into the refurbishing of the stands at the Charity Community Centre, and also construct a fence that would aid in the collection of revenue from rental.

But despite their many challenges, the youths collectively believe that things will change. As Stull reasoned, “I think they just need people that generally care about the youths in the area, and are not just there because of who they know in the government.

“The RDC needs to play a better role in the community, and help us a bit more” - Guyana Chronicle

ʻOriginal Juice Manʼ now eyes Caribbean market GUYANA -- Essequibo businessman, Neteram Ramnanan, better known as “Original Juice Man”, has no regrets about heeding the government’s call several years ago to grow more food.

For starters, he has seen significant economic and other gains since leaving Windsor Castle, where he was born and raised, to venture into the agro-processing business some 34 years ago.

Today, he not only supplies the local market with a wide array of fruit juices, but he now has his sights set on cornering the Caribbean market as well, where he says the demand for local products is overwhelming.

And, wanting to encourage others to take the same leap of faith as he did, Ramnanan is appealling to those frustrated rice farmers out there to strongly think

about diversifying into fish farming or some such other venture, since the benefits are immense and guaranteed.

This year, Ramnanan is not only poised to invest close to $65M on expanding his manufacturing operations, but he’s already struck a new deal with with a Trinidadian firm to supply it with over 500 litres of canejuice weekly.

“So, rice and cane farmers,” he said, “you have nothing to lose if you plant fruits; the market is there.”

One reason he is interested in seeing a shift in trends, Ramnanan says, especially among rice farmers, is because of the great demand for raw materials and byproducts.

As he observed, “We are still not making economic use of our fruits; and tons of rice husk and straw still go waste…

We must, therefore, intensify our efforts to increase the links between industry and our resources.”

Ramnanan is of the firm belief that the Coalition government is in a stronger position to convince rice farmers to diversify.

He is of the opinion that this regime, once it continues to show an interest in agro- processing, and is willing to help those entrepreneurs who are willing to take the risk and diversify, everyone will eventually get in on a piece of the action. “Everyone should get a piece of the pie,” he said.

The established Pomeroon businessman started his business 1982 by manually producing cane-juice and pushing a hand cart on the road for miles.

- Guyana Chronicle

PAGE 13

Wednesday, January 27, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

trinidad news

PAGE 15

T&T Chamber: Appointment of top CoP needed TRINIDAD -- Even as it expressed support for the resumption of joint police/army patrols in crime-plagued communities of east Port-of-Spain, the T&T Chamber of Industry and Commerce Monday reiterated its call for the appointment of a permanent police commissioner.

The country’s largest business group did so in a statement in which it expressed outrage at the upsurge in heinous crimes since the start of the year.

“Things came to a sobering head last Thursday January 21 when two teenaged boys—Mark Richards and Deneilson Smith—had their young lives snuffed out at the hands of gunmen in the Laventille area,”

the Chamber said as it expressed sympathies to the families and loved ones of the teens.

The statement continued: “While it is comforting to note that within approximately 72 hours, four individuals were detained in connection with the murder of the teenagers, it is equally daunting that criminal activity continues relentlessly throughout the country.”

The T&T Chamber, which is calling for the joint patrols to be extended to “any other location within our borders, once deemed necessary,” urged the Government to take the lead in ensuring concrete initiatives are implemented to restore safety and security.

The group said the appointment of a permanent police commissioner “remains among the first steps to engendering confidence and a sense of stability in local law enforcement.

“This, along with an effective and integrated approach to intelligence gathering; a solid, airtight and trustworthy witness protection programme to support those who wish to come forward with valuable information; an enforced policy of zero tolerance for even the most minor of infractions and a reformed criminal justice system that is as resolute in its condemnation of white collar crime as it is of blue.

“The suggestions outlined here

may well be viewed still in some quarters as merely scratching the surface of the crime behemoth that has overtaken our small nation. Be that as it may, the one thing of which we are certain is that neither the Government nor any one body should be held solely responsible for stemming the ugly tide of unlawful activity.

“To this end, T&T Chamber and by extension, the business community, reiterates its commitment to collaborating productively with the Government and all relevant stakeholders, to secure a better future for all of us—particularly our children—who live and work in Trinidad and Tobago.”

- Trinidad Guardian

Opposition on ruling: We have been vindicated TRINIDAD -- Former prime minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says her PP administration stands vindicated by Monday’s Privy Council judgment which stated the repeal of the controversial Section 34 of the Administration of Justice (Indictable Proceedings) Act was lawful.

“This decision puts to rest, by a judgment of our highest court, the criticisms of the then Opposition of the actions of the PP government,” Persad-Bissessar added via statement Commenting on the judgment, Persad-Bissessar added, “The reasons behind the passing of section 34 in its original incarnation remain valid. The legality and constitutionality of the action of the government I led in passing the repeal legislation has been tested and affirmed at each level of our judicial system.

“This judgment is a resounding victory for the People’s Partnership government which was the subject of much vilification and political attack by those who were bent on political exploitation of what was a constitutional crisis which was created with their active participation and support in Parliament.”

She said the ruling upholds local courts’ ruling in favour of the State when the PP was in office. “It is a clear vindication of the decision which was immediately taken to repeal section 34. The judgment highlights the swift action taken by the then government to convene the Parliament on an emergency basis to repeal a law that was unanimously passed with the support of all MPs with the noble intention of improving the system of criminal justice.

“The decision affirms the supremacy and power of Parliament. The effect of this decision is that the State’s right to prosecute those persons who may have benefited from section 34 in its original form has now been preserved.”

Persad-Bissessar noted specific reference was made in the judgment to the role of PP government members including then attorney general Anand Ramlogan and herself.

“As noted in paragraph 9 of the judgment, ‘On the same day, the Attorney General called the Prime Minister and told her that in his opinion section 34 should be repealed urgently’. The Privy Council also expressed the view that the Amendment Act was not targeted at the appellants and the actions of the Parliament did not contravene the separation of powers.

“Swift remedial action was taken which effectively nullified any unintended consequences and benefits that would have operated to the detriment of the Criminal Justice System. We had convened a powerful legal team led by Lord Pannick QC and Allan Newman QC which resulted in legal victory at the High Court and the Court of Appeal. An equally powerful team was retained for the Privy Council Appeal and it is significant the Privy Council upheld the decision given by our Local Courts.”

Persad-Bissessar added, “In the final analysis, truth and justice have prevailed. Our political detractors who voted together with us to pass Section 34 and then laid the blame at the feet of the PP Administration will no doubt continue to make malicious allegations. This is, however, a resounding victory for the rule of law and justice has prevailed. Due process must now be followed so that justice can be done according to law.”

PMM caused hysteria —Mark UNC senate leader Wade Mark, who brought up the Privy Council issue during senate debate Monday, slammed the PNM for “misrepresenting things to the public” on Section 34.

Saying the Privy Council judgment had upheld the parliament’s handling of the matter, Mark said the PNM had in 2012 been

“all over the place marching, attacking and causing hysteria, claiming grand conspiracy and mobilising all of T&T against the PP. “But today the Privy Council upheld the law and no financiers are free. This PNM has a way of twisting, bending and manipulating facts to sway the population. But now they in charge they have to deal with reality.”

Mark later told reporters the PNM had used the issue to generate hysteria and give their allies the impression the PP was “involved in some sinister plot” and the Piarco accused would get “away scot free” “But they (PNM) all voted for it in Parliament where everyone also plugged the loophole after the fact. It demonstrated as the law lords said, they couldn’t go behind the minds of everyone to determine if there was any plot or conspiracy. That was only in the PNM’s minds and that of their agents. But thank God for the Privy Council who have now put this matter to rest once and for all,” he said.

They marched for my blood in vain—Volney “My blood was spilt in vain.” That was the view of former PP justice minister Herbert Volney who had piloted the Administration of Justice Act and proclamation of Section 34 in 2012 On the Privy Council’s judgment, Volney said, “They marched for my blood and they got it. But given what’s happened now it was all in vain. But these things happen and I don’t think T&T is better off for what happened over the repeal.

“The Privy Council judgment has exonerated the PP administration and me on wrongdoing since the then government acted responsibly to repeal the section.

“Unfortunately Rowley has surrounded himself with yes-men, the same old crew. And it’s the same with the Opposition.”

Volney said he’s doing “intellectual work” up the islands, is “happily retired” and also farming organically produced eggs.

“I feel I’ve been wasted as a jurist but that’s God’s will. I’m enjoying retirement and that’s the end of public life.”

Volney said the PP “has nothing to do with me and I have nothing to do with them, they never even sent me a Christmas card.”

They marched for my blood in vain—Volney “My blood was spilt in vain.” That was the view of former PP justice minister Herbert Volney who had piloted the Administration of Justice Act and proclamation of Section 34 in 2012 On the Privy Council’s judgment, Volney said, “They marched for my blood and they got it. But given what’s happened now it was all in vain. But these things happen and I don’t think T&T is better off for what happened over the repeal.

“The Privy Council judgment has exonerated the PP administration and me on wrongdoing since the then government acted responsibly to repeal the section.

“Unfortunately Rowley has surrounded himself with yes-men, the same old crew. And it’s the same with the Opposition.”

Volney said he’s doing “intellectual work” up the islands, is “happily retired” and also farming organically produced eggs.

“I feel I’ve been wasted as a jurist but that’s God’s will. I’m enjoying retirement and that’s the end of public life.”

Volney said the PP “has nothing to do with me and I have nothing to do with them, they never even sent me a Christmas card.”

- Trinidad Guardian

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Become a Regulated Immigration Consultant Full-time | Part-time | Online Contact a program adviser at 1.844.628.5784 or apply online today. www.ashtoncollege.ca Ashton College

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Wednesday, January 27, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

feature fea ature

PAGE P AGE 17

Mollyʼs Hotte Shoppe, still open for business Keeping the dream alive When we leave this world, we resign an everlasting impact to the people who knew us, leaving them with the memories of how we made an impression on their lives.

Owners Molly Beharry and Paul Sarwan established Molly’s Hotte Shoppe, in April of 2007. Between the two of them they had little experience in the restaurant business coming from backgrounds working in accounting and dispatching. Paul was familiar with restaurant work, having got a taste for it when he was still living in Guyana, but Molly was unsure of this new venture, as she had been working in Customs while she was still in Trinidad.

When they moved to Brampton, Paul decided that he wanted to do something different. Although they had no experience or financial backing they dove in head first opening a small West Indian restaurant and roti shop in the community. From the beginning it has just been Molly and Paul managing the restaurant. They never planned on expanding or opening multiple locations, instead opting to keep it an intimate setting with a small menu. Their intention was to serve the local community, not necessarily only catering to the Caribbean community who were accustomed to their style of food, but to allow other cultures to experience the flavors of West Indian cooking.

They are proud to say that after nine years they have amassed a wide range of multicultural clientele from in and around the area. People aren’t coming from far and wide to sample their food everyday, but they have customers that are loyal to them, enjoying and appreciating the homey and comfortable atmosphere they offer at their restaurant. At Molly’s it wasn’t about the extravagance of owning your own restaurant, but offering a convenient and relaxing place

to make customers feel as though they can come home for lunch.

Opening the restaurant had always been Paul’s dream. Molly was never too keen on the idea, however she wanted to be there for Paul and support his aspirations to make his vision a reality. In the beginning Molly had no background in cooking.

She was inexperienced in the ways of making Roti and she had to learn how to make Doubles from scratch. She had never spent time in the kitchen to see how these different dishes were made and so for the first few years there was a lot of trial and error to develop a working system to cooking food.

Fortunately within the first couple months she was able to learn and their loyal customers supported them providing advice on how they could make their food even better.

When they first ventured into the business Molly and Paul couldn’t rely on the support of their family. Just the thought of knowing they were leaving their perfectly well established careers to open a doubles and roti shop was the most insane idea they had ever heard. Although the idea seemed unreasonable, Molly supported Paul’s dream, because she saw the passion in his eyes whenever he spoke about opening the restaurant. It was something he wanted to pursue and she wasn’t going to be the one to deprive him of that.

There were a lot of challenges running this two-person operation. Paul was very particular about whom he allowed in his kitchen. His food was his passion and he took pride in the dishes that he made, excited to be able to present his work to his customers. Paul always put his customer’s needs first, ensuring that everyone that came into the restaurant was satisfied before he left at the end of the day. Paul never even consid-

ered his bottom line, because fulfilling the needs of his customers was his livelihood.

Both Paul and Molly committed long hours, dedicating time to learn and perfect their cuisine. Paul was meticulous in the preparation of his food and although she struggled at first, Molly worked very hard to keep up.

There were many times when Molly wanted to quit, many sleepless nights that she spent wondering what she had gotten herself into, but they both depended on one another to be a support system and do whatever it took to get through each and every day. They always discussed how it would have been different had they not opened up the restaurant and stuck with their original careers, knowing they would have done a lot better for themselves. However, it wasn’t about that for Paul. Instead, opening the restaurant was something he loved to do, serving people was his passion and in the end is what brought him ultimate happiness.

Paul passed away on October 25th, 2015, only a few short months ago. His passing was sudden and has been a very traumatic time for Molly and customers visiting the restaurant who knew Paul well. Sometimes there are no words to explain the loss of a loved one and Molly has been having a difficult time sharing the news with Paul’s beloved customers who come asking for him, accustomed to seeing his smiling face when they walk in standing behind the counter.

Paul made it a point to establish a relationship with each of his customers, addressing many of them on a first name basis. It didn’t matter if they were there two weeks ago or a year had passed, Paul never forgot who they were, and spoke with them heart to heart, sharing in things not many would coming to a restaurant. “It was like in that TV show Cheers, ‘Where everybody knows

your name.’” Molly recalls.

Although Paul has passed away his legacy lives on in the restaurant he established with Molly. He didn’t open his restaurant for money, but as an outlet to which he could serve the community through his own purpose. Molly now works around the clock to keep the restaurant open encouraging customers to come and eat the same recipes that Paul used to make. Molly was trained to cook by Paul and while he is no longer preparing the food, she is working hard to maintain his cooking standards and provide customer satisfaction to everyone who visits the restaurant.

Molly’s Hotte Shoppe is located at 490 Chrysler Drive in Brampton on the corner of Williams Parkway and Chrysler Drive.

They offer quality Caribbean style cuisine with many West Indian favorites including Hot Doubles, Aloo Pies, freshly made Roti wraps filled with Chicken, Goat, Shrimp, Veggies, Jerk Chicken or Fish and various other combos and lunch boxes prepared fresh for pick up or take out. After closing up shop for the day, Molly visits West Indian Grocery stores in the area to pick up all of the ingredients and spices that she needs to prepare and cook food for the next day.

Paul will be sorely missed by all of his customers, his close friends and family.

He was a selfless man who knew the value in providing service with a smile. Molly says that she will continue to work at the restaurant, in hopes of continuing Paul’s dream and keep his memory alive at the shop while doing her best to be as good to her customers as Paul was to them.

Written by Alyssa Mahadeo Toronto Caribbean Reporter

entertainment

PAGE 20

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Soca musicʼs natural rhythm being tampered with, says reigning Monarch Aba Luke

aba@carib101.com

Entertainment A reigning Monarch in Trinidad and Tobago says soca music is being tampered with and this is at the root of the uncanny response by many traditional fetters this season. On social media, many argue that this season’s music isn’t up to standard. Many have been waiting with bated breath for that one magical song that would whisk them away into carnival bliss. Some have said Machel Montano’s EDM infused, “Waiting On The Stage,” has done it for them. Others however say, no, that’s not the one.

Defending Calypso Monarch, Roderick ‘Chucky’ Gordon feels soca music and many of T&T’s traditional carnival elements have been tampered with. In a chat with EtceteraBuzz, the artiste who released the Red Boys produced, “No Jumbie Vibes” recently, said in addition to the fact that soca music has continuously been fused with so many other genres of music, much of the songs being released, aren’t being given a good opportunity to breathe.

The reigning Monarch went on to express a sense of hurt for the direction Soca music seems to be headed. He said for this reason, he has created a style of Calypso he’s calling Jiggy Calypso, calypso that will engage audiences, encouraging dancing but still remaining true to content.

EtceteraBuzz sought to find out what Chucky thinks of the feting dynamic. He said things have changed and it has to do with a natural shift.

Machel Montano makes megastore stop ahead of Machel Monday Aba Luke

aba@carib101.com

Entertainment Machel Montano seems set on ramming out the Hasely Crawford Stadium again this year, this despite talk of a looming recession in Trinidad and Tobago. With tickets priced between $300 and $1200 based on section choice, the Monk as he’s now called, will likely make a killing when thousands flood the gates of what will be turned into the Soca Drome come Carnival Monday and Tuesday.

Machel made his debut on the Carnival circuit at CIC’s Fete With The Saints on Saturday night and by all accounts, he thrilled. He even told his fans

Chucky has delivered four 2016 singles- the Jason ‘Shaft’ Bishop written “Take Me Home”, “No Jumbie Vibes”, “No Time” which features fellow vocalist, Fridge, and most recently, “It Eh Go Wuk” described as his new Jiggy Calypso contribution. Online, many have argued that he has not been receiving

enough airplay across urban frequencies.

The young artiste remains positive in his outlook and approach though, telling EtceteraBuzz that he remains focused on the art form and his growth.

- EtceteraBuzz

“Men Donʼt RULE…” Destra sets the record straight!

Aba Luke

aba@carib101.com

Entertainment

“I LIVE BACCHANAL, THEY CALL ME BACCHANAL…” This must be the soundtrack as Destra Garcia- The Queen of Bacchanal, prepares for this year’s QOB Wednesday.

In an exclusive interview with he’d busted his knee and had to have EBuzzTT, the Queen of Bacchanal said, surgery done on it, showing off his ban- after years of prodding from family and dage but never for a second, allowing friends, 2015 was the year she finally dethat to stop his stage show. Montano was cided to take the plunge and treat fans also the feature performer at SOAKA to a concert which showcased her repon Sunday morning at the O2 Park in ertoire of music and that of some of her Chaguaramas and of course, that young, energetic audience partied the morning closest friends in the industry. This heraway in wild abandon, getting soaked to alded the birth of Queen of Bacchanal the bone with water being sprayed into Wednesday!

Asked what influenced the QOB the crowd, while enjoying nothing but Wednesday concept, Destra took us on sweet soca music.

On Monday, fans of the artiste a brief trip down memory lane. With a got a chance to meet him when he visited chuckle, evidence of her jovial and afthe Courts Megastore. A planned event fable nature, she said she was born on a dubbed, Mega Monday with Machel, Wednesday, and growing up, her mother saw the new Digicel endorsee, posing often accused her of trying to be in the for snap shots with his adoring fans of midst of everything ‘like Wednesday.’ all ages. Of course, there were tickets Added to that, she said her musical colfor his February 1st concert on sale dur- leagues Machel and Kees had claimed ing the meet and greet, this as the soca Monday and Tuesday respectively for megastar prepares to welcome several their concerts, so all things considered, Wednesday was hers for the taking. international artistes to T&T again.

Admitting to us that she was ex- EtceteraBuzz tremely nervous heading into last year’s

concert, the artiste who tours the globe annually, said she was involved in every aspect of the event’s organisation. This year however, she says the planning will be left in the capable hands of the organizers, this as she focuses on perfecting her performances. Garcia says she feels this year’s concert has much more buzz than it did last year, something she says shows that her fans are appreciative of the event.

Commenting on the decision to host the “Queen” edition of QOB Wednesday, Destra said it is still perceived that this is a man’s world and men are naturally better at accomplishing tasks than their female counterparts.

Garcia said she personally does not subscribe to that thought process but says she feels duty bound to do her part to alleviate it. According to the Queen of Bacchanal herself, though this year’s event will not be exclusive to female acts, it will highlight the musical accomplishments of her female counterparts.

Destra says her decision to opt out of the International Soca Monarch competition and quite a few of this year’s carnival events will allow her to focus on the development of her brand.

She hopes that QOB Wednesday will become a staple in carnival, an event that patrons can speak about with excitement and look forward to with ardent anticipation. Asked if she plans to return to the ISM stage, she said, “I’ve learnt to never say never…let’s think of this as a pause, right now my focus is my concert and building my brand.”

- EtceteraBuzz

Wednesday, January 27, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

sports

PAGE 21

Brian Lara: Chanders deserved proper send-off DUBAI -- Brian Lara believes recently retired West Indies batsman Shiv Chanderpaul should have been afforded the time to make a graceful exit from the game. Hailing Chanderpaul as one of the “giants of West Indies cricket”, Lara said he was disappointed the 41-yearold had been axed from the Test team without having the opportunity to have a “proper send-off.”

“Shiv, who played since 1994, had a tremendous career. I started with Shiv in Guyana and remember his first Test match against England,” Lara said Monday.

“That guy with the most Test matches for the West Indies, playing for over 20 years, I don’t think people in the West Indies understand exactly his contribution.

“I was very disappointed that Shiv was not allowed a couple of more Test matches, not necessarily to break the record but to have a proper sendoff. Something I think he is very disappointed (about) and unfortunately that did not happen.”

Chanderpaul’s form came under the microscope after he managed just 91 runs in three Tests against South Africa last year January and 92 runs in a similar three-Test series against England in April.

In announcing the left-hand-

er’s sacking ahead of Australia’s tour of the Caribbean last May, chief selector Clive Lloyd said Chanderpaul’s decline in form had been “rapid” and selectors had opted to focus on younger players.

Overall,

Chanderpaul pummelled 11 867 runs from 164 Tests at an average of 51, with 30 centuries.

Though known

for his patient, attritional batting, Chanderpaul piled up 8778 runs from 268 One-Day Internationals at an average of 41. Lara said he was a big admirer of Chanderpaul throughout his career.

“He has been a great servant f o r West Indies cricket and he has done some tremendous things throughout his career, and c r e d i t must

be given to the man for how he has played,” said Lara, who is here to play

in the Masters Champions League.

“When I do have the opportunity to give him a call and thank him, I will because for me he was one of the giants of West Indies cricket.”

Meanwhile, cricket’s world governing body, the ICC, has praised Chanderpaul as “a role model for millions.”

In a release Monday, the ICC noted: “Shivnarine Chanderpaul will be remembered as a reliable and extremely effective batsman. He was remarkable with the way he could adapt to his style, mixing solid defence and attack, to the demands of the situation,” ICC Chief Executive David Richardson said.

“For nearly two decades, Shivnarine not only excelled with the bat but with his sporting attitude and quiet determination became a role model for millions of youngsters.”

Chanderpaul scored 30 Test centuries and finished with an average of 51. He also served as West Indies captain, leading the regional side in 14 Tests. His career was effectively ended last May when West Indies selectors axed him ahead of Australia’s tour of the Caribbean, following failures against South Africa and England.

- Jamaica National

PAGE 22

sports

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 27, 2016

WIndies Retains Sammy for T20 World Cup in March TRINIDAD -- West Indies T20 captain Darren Sammy has been retained for the upcoming International Cricket Council World T20 tournament in India in March.

The West Indies selectors, headed by Sir Clive Lloyd, are happy to keep Sammy for the premier tournament. The West Indies are currently ranked number one in the ICC rankings for T20s and Sammy has been the man in charge during this climb.

There were speculations that Sammy may have been replaced by Test and ODI captain Jason Holder but the selectors opted for experience go-

ing into the World T20.

Sammy was at the helm of the team that won the title in 2012 in Sri Lanka and reached the semi-finals in 2014 in Bangladesh. He retired from Test cricket on May 9 last year but is still available to play ODIs for the regional team. He was left out of the West Indies team for

the ODIs against Sri Lanka in November.

The World T20 gets going on March 16 for the West Indies, as they come up against England in Mumbai. They will also face Sri Lanka, South Africa and a qualifier from the associates.

The West Indies Cricket Board

(WICB) is awaiting news on the results of tests on Sunil Narine’s bowling action before announcing their team.

Narine was banned from bowling by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for an illegal bowling action. He is due to return to Loughborough University later this month to do tests on his action.

If he passes the test, he will be named on the team, as he has tremendous experience of the Indian conditions, having campaigned in the Indian Premier League (IPL) T20 since 2012.

- Trinidad Guardian

T&T Under 17s impress in New Zealand BRIDGETOWN -- Captain Jason Holder is at a loss to explain Barbados Pride’s poor showing in the final of the Regional Super50 last Saturday. The star-studded side, boasting 10 current and former West Indies players, went down by 72 runs to reigning champions Trinidad and Tobago Red Force in a lopsided affair at Queen’s Park Oval.

“I can’t really put my finger on it at the moment. We just weren’t good enough in the field … I reckon we gave away about 40 runs and really paid for it in the end,” Holder said.

“It’s tough in a final to make so many mistakes and come out winning the game at the end of the day so we just need to tighten up on that in the future.”

Winning the toss and opting to bowl, Pride were ragged in the field,

allowing Red Force to reach 270 for seven off their 50 overs. West Indies batsman Darren Bravo top-scored with 97 while Barbadian opener Kyle Hope got 34 and captain Jason Mohammed, 31.

In reply, Pride slumped to 31 for four in the tenth over and never really recovered, eventually bundled out for 198 in the 43rd over. Shai Hope made a patient 50 while Carlos Brathwaite blasted an attacking 46 from 32 balls.

“We didn’t get off to a good start with the bat so we just had to, in a sense, rebuild in the middle and we never quite got it going,” Holder explained.

He added: “When you’re chasing 270-odd on these types of pitches you need a good start, you need to keep

wickets in hand and we didn’t do that.

We had an unfortunate collision on the field [between Shane Dowrich and Ashley Nurse] and Shane Dowrich was pretty much out of it afterward.

“He had to go to hospital while we were batting so he had to bat down the order which is a tough decision for us because obviously he has been very good for us.

“I thought we were doing pretty good in the middle. It was a top innings there from Carlos Brathwaite.

I thought he really came and showed how we should play on this track and how to put pressure on these bowlers but it’s just a situation where we never got the partnerships going.”

Holder was one of several West Indies players who joined the Pride squad at the half-way stage of the tour-

nament, following the tour of Australia. Likewise, Bravo also returned to strengthen the Red Force duty following West Indies duty, reeling off three half-centuries in as many innings, and Holder believed he was the difference for the hosts.

“We didn’t bowl too badly. I think the ball went into some pretty tight spots in terms of not going to the fielders where we set them and I think we just need to be a little more precise when we set fields,” he pointed out.

“But credit to the way Darren played, he was outstanding. At that stage he came in, he knew he had to build an innings and be there at the end and he batted deep into the innings which was good for them.”

- Trinidad Guardian

PAGE 26

food

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Simple tamarind chutney Chris De La Rosa chris@carib101.com

Caribbean Cooking Here’s another one of those spicy condiments I grew up enjoying with many of the street food sold outside the gates of my secondary school in San Fernando, Trinidad at recess and lunch time. Usually used as a dipping sauce for Pholourie and Saheena… and as a topping for doubles and aloo pies. But I think we most enjoyed it on it’s own, as a thick savory sauce when our taste buds craved something exciting (especially when we didn’t

enough money have enoug gh mo m neyy for the pholourie). You’ll ne find that I did stray a bit from the traditional type recipes, however you’ll enjoy the subtle complex flavors.

You’ll Need: 12-14 tamarinds 1/2 scotch bonnet pepper diced 1/2 onion diced 2 scallions diced 2 tablespoon chopped shado beni (or cilantro) 1/2 teaspoon salt (see note below) 2 tablespoon brown sugar 2 cloves garlic (diced or crushed) 2 1/2 cups water + 1 cup 1/2 lime (juice) Note: Depending on how tart (sour) your tamarind is you may need a bit more salt and brown sugar. If tamarind pulp (solid block, not the liquid) is available in your grocery store, it will save you having to remove the

been shell/seeds (would have already be een ree moved).

Important! If doing this recipe according to a gluten free diet, be sure to go through the entire list of ingredients to ensure they meet with your specific gluten free dietary requirements.

Crack the shell of the tamarinds and remove the pulp. Discard the shell and stringy bits, and get ready to cook. It will be sticky on your fingers.

Bring 2 cups of water to a boil and add the pulp, reduce to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes. Allow to cool, so you can safely handle it.

As it simmers, prep you other ingredients (chop finely or puree).

With the boiled tamarind pulp cool, it’s now time to use your hand/fingers and remove the hard seeds on the inside (discard).

Place the pot back on a medium flame and add another cup of water – bring to

a bboil.

Now go in with all the other ingredients and after it comes to a boil, reduce to a simmer and allow to cook for another 20 minutes.

At this point all the flavors should have combined nicely, so it’s time to use a blender or stick blender to puree it into a sauce (with texture). Or you can add a bit more water and allow it to cook longer until everything breakdown into the sauce consistency you like. Be sure to taste for salt and sugar and adjust accordingly as some tamarind can be a bit more tart than others. Tamarind chutney is supposed to be the perfect balance between tart, sweet and spicy!

You can place it in a glass container and store in the fridge for at least 1 week.

Wednesday, January 27, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

travel

PAGE 27

Love is in the air Micca Vanvield

micca@carib101.com

Travel Specialist As I realize that January is drawing to a close, thoughts of February become prominent. February is celebrated as the month of romance by many. It is a time where we exchange gifts with the special people in our lives with a focus on what we “think” they would want. The importance is set on what we would like to get for them but have we stopped to think for a moment how they

would like to receive love?

As a Lifestyle Travel Advisor, I specialize in how couples can use travel to reignite the flame in a relationship. If you’ve ever been in a long-term relationship or marriage, you would have noticed that once you get over the initial honeymoon stages things seem to start to get monotonous. We forget about focusing on that flame we had when we were celebrating us a couple and we start to focus on everything else. Research has shown that when things start to fade in a relationship there are a number of different things that could be done. Feedback from a variety of relationship therapists suggests that planning a getaway together can help to reignite that flame. In fact it’s always at the top of the list.

Often times, more than not, when things seem like they have gotten old you’ve

succumbed to a routine. A routine of work, family, bills, stress, etc. This can all take a toll on relationships especially if you are like the majority of our population who have to focus on these areas to get by. As a travel expert I recommend the following to help reignite that fire in a relationship: Plan weekly/ monthly date nights (this could be anything from sending the kids to grandma’s while the two of you reminisce about your last vacation together as a couple to actually taking a mini vacation at a bed and breakfast nearby).

Hire a maid service to take care of the household chores so that you can actually come home from that vacation and not have to worry about cleaning when you get back.

Attend a retreat or seminar out of town about strengthening relationships (this

gets you a vacation and helps with communication).

Simply book a vacation just for the two of you, where all you have to think about is how long I was asleep on my beach chair today.

There are many more benefits to vacationing as a couple. We all need to start somewhere. If taking breaks from the everyday routine was important in the honeymoon stages it should not be ignored throughout the relationship. Find out how your spouse would like to receive love. If they like to travel, you can gift them a trip to Paris for the weekend, plan a spa getaway, order in their favourite food and watch the travel channel together. Whatever you choose to do to celebrate love and no matter the budget you should always make it all about the person receiving the love!

Wednesday, January 27, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

body & soul

PAGE 29

What is your yoga challenge?

Melissa Goodman

melissa@carib101.com

Yoga Specialist Yoga challenges have become very popular over the past few years and they continue to grow through the use of multimedia. Two of the most popular challenges are the thirty classes in thirty days or the thirty poses for thirty days. There are other variations but we will explore the benefits of these two.

Studios host most but not all challenges. This is a great way to draw new students into the studio and get them started on

their yoga path or to inspire the more advanced practitioners to continue their journey.

Thirty classes in thirty days: This appears simple enough; participate in thirty classes over the course of the month. A great inspiration to get students into the studio daily. This takes some planning on the student’s part to carve out time in their busy schedule to commit to growing their practice, this commitment can lead to a great sense of accomplishment through increased strength, flexibility and balance. At the end of the month the benefits of the challenge will not only be seen in the physical body but felt on a much deeper level.

There are some considerations before and during your challenge. If you have an acute injury like a sore ankle it is best to allow yourself time to heal. If you decided to participate in the challenge with an injury

respect your body and don’t push yourself during the challenge. Take the modifications in class and move in a safe manner that supports your body. It is best to pace yourself and vary the classes in which you participate.

For instance on a day when it seems impossible to go to the studio because of sore muscles or fatigue, allow yourself to indulge in a slower, quiet practice maybe taking a Yin and Restorative class. Most studios have a range of classes, teachers and styles. During the thirty classes it is best to take the opportunity to experience all that the studio has to offer.

Thirty poses for thirty days: This challenge is typically performed outside the studio. Lists of poses are outlined, one for each day. The student is to take a picture of themselves in the pose and post it online tagging the studio. This challenge can be great as it only takes a few minutes each day to

complete.

Some considerations for this challenge are to respect your body and always warm up before coming into any pose. Stay humble, there is little guidance with these challenges, just because the picture shows the advanced version of the pose does not mean your pose has to look like that, do your best and photograph where you are in your practice. If you are unsure about a pose, ask the studio for guidance.

These challenges should be approached with an open mind and room for flexibility within the structure. They are a great gift that will lead you to a deeper understanding of your body and mind while building a community with your fellow yogis. Remember these are called challenges not competitions.

Wednesday, January 27, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

health news

PAGE 31

Apple cider vinegar stabilizes blood glucose, prevents heart disease and improves weight loss!

Apple cider vinegar is made in a similar process to alcohol. First the apple cider is exposed to yeast allowing the sugars to ferment into alcohol. For the second step, healthy bacteria is added to the alcohol, which furthers fermentation of the alcohol, turning it into acetic acid.

The word vinegar means “sour wine.” Organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar contains a “mother” which are strands of protein, enzymes and bacteria that make the vinegar murky.

Vinegar is useful in killing pathogens and bacteria, making it useful for cleaning, disinfecting, and treating fungus, lice, warts, and ear infections. Vinegar is also a natural food preservative and inhibits E. coli and other bacterias from spoiling the food.

Apple cider vinegar improves insulin sensitivity, lowers blood glucose, and reduces fasting blood sugars!

Apple cider vinegar has been shown to be effective in patients with type 2 diabetes. In studies, apple cider vinegar has shown to improve insulin sensitivity during a high carb meal by 19-34 percent and significantly lowered blood glucose and insulin response. Another study showed that it reduced blood sugar by 34 per-

cent when eating 50 grams of white bread.

Studies also show that 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before bedtime reduce fasting blood sugars by 4 percent. It’s also been found that vinegar can increase insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar responses during mealtimes.

Studies also show that apple cider vinegar is effective for weight loss. Studies show that vinegar increases satiety that results in fewer calories consumed. Eating vinegar along with a meal results in people consuming 200-275 fewer calories the rest of the day. One study found that daily consumption of vinegar in obese individuals reduced belly fat, waist circumference, lowered blood triglycerides and improved weight loss.

Apple cider vinegar is effective for weight loss and has been shown to reduce risk of heart disease!

Due to apple cider vinegars effectiveness at lowering cholesterol and triglycerides, it is helpful in improving heart health. Apple cider vinegar contains antioxidant, chlorogenic acid, which protects against LDL cholesterol particles being oxidized which is a primary step in the process of heart disease. Other studies show that vinegar reduces blood pressure. A

Harvard observational study found that women who ate salad dressings with vinegar had a reduced risk of heart disease.

Vinegar has also been found to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors in studies.

Apple cider vinegar can also be used to treat dandruff, soothe a sore throat, eliminate food odor, balance digestive system, treat acne, heal a sunburn, and whiten your teeth.

You can use apple cider vinegar as part of a daily routine, adding to homemade salad dressings or fermenting your own foods using it. You can also dilute 1-2 tsp or 1-2 Tbsp in water and drink this daily.

Next time you are peeling apples, save the scraps and follow this recipe from theprairiehomestead.com and make your own apple cider vinegar.

Instructions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Apple Cider Vinegar Supplies:

6.

• • • •

7.

apple peelings or cores Sugar (1 tablespoon per one cup of water) Water Glass jar (a quart is a great place to start, but you can definitely make larger quantities, too.)

Fill the glass jar ¾ of the way with apple peels and cores.

Stir the sugar into the water until it’s mostly dissolved, and pour over the apple scraps until they are completely covered.

(Leave a few inches of room at the top of the jar.)

Cover loosely with coffee filter or fabric scrap secured with a rubber band and set in a warm, dark place for around two weeks.

You can give it a stir every few days, if you like. If any brownish/greyish scum develops on the top, simply skim it off.

Once two weeks has passed, strain the scraps from the liquid.

At this point, the vinegar usually has a pleasantly sweet apple cider smell, but is still missing that lovely tang.

Discard the scraps, and set the strained liquid aside for another 2-4 weeks - Natural News

Renowned cancer expert Ralph Moss explains why the West is finally embracing herbal medicine Well-acclaimed cancer expert Ralph W. Moss PhD, has traveled the world in search of society’s most effective cancer treatments. Having authored 10 books, produced three documentary films and written countless cancer-related articles, featured in a long list of respectable publications, it’s clear Moss has dedicated his life to understanding a disease that affects so many of us.

A staunch proponent of alternative medicine, Moss authored Herbs Against Cancer, in which he delves into the growing acceptance of herbal medicine in the West. The following is a snippet from his book: The world is changing; medical treatments that were considered sheer quackery a few years ago are now being given serious consideration by government researchers. In the developing world, herbal medicine has attained new prestige, thanks mainly to the sponsorship of the World Health Organization (WHO).

Fostering wellness In the developed world, the public, by the tens of millions, is demanding an integration of conventional Western medicine and the oncescorned approaches of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).

Cancer is one of the diseases whose treatment is being re-evaluated around the world. There is widespread dissatisfaction with surgery, radiotherapy, and especially chemotherapy. Even oncologists (cancer specialists) are being caught up in that trend.

You will notice that the latest cancer “breakthroughs” mainly involve innovative and less toxic agents, such as hormonal drugs (tamoxifen), angiogenesis inhibitors (Angiostatin and Endostatin), and monoclonal antibodies (Herceptin).

More and more, doctors (prodded by outspoken and well-informed patients) are realizing that they need to do more than just kill cells. They must also foster wellness, by supporting the body’s defense mechanisms and utilizing the biochemical peculiarities of the tumor against itself.

One possible “new” avenue of treatment is herbal medicine, with “new” in quotes because, as you shall see, it is one of the oldest ways of treating illness.

“New” medicine is really old medicine First of all, what do we mean by herbs and herbal medicine? We all have a commonsensical definition of herbs, which is basically “any-

thing that grows and is useful.” More technically, the Concise Oxford Dictionary defines an herb as (a) any non-woody seed-bearing plant which dies down to the ground after flowering, or (b) any plant with leaves, seeds, or flowers used for flavoring, food, medicine, scent, etc.

The “World Health Organization” (WHO), which has done much to promote the use of herbs, defines “herbal medicines” as “finished, labeled medicinal products that contain as active ingredients aerial or underground parts of plants, or other plant material, or combinations thereof, whether in the crude state or as plant preparations.”

Herbal medicines may also contain not just excipients (such as binders that help in the preparation of pills and capsules) but also, by tradition, natural organic or inorganic active ingredients, which are not of plant origin.

Herbal medicine is regarded, in the United States at least, as an offshoot of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).

Much of the resurgence of herbs in America, England, Canada, and Australia has to do with the acceptance of cultural pluralism in those countries.

Immigrant culture and alternative medicine

In many other countries, including the European Continent, the use of herbal medicine never entirely died out, and in some instances has been officially sanctioned and fostered. At the very least, there has been greater tolerance.

It is mainly in the English-speaking countries, especially the USA, that such treatments were for a long time stigmatized as “health fraud” and “quackery.”

One reason for the profound change in climate has been the activities of the World Health Organization, and its many affiliated agencies and congresses. The prestige of the WHO and the United Nations has done much to dissolve the atmosphere of hostility that surrounded traditional medicines.

Meanwhile, in the developed countries, we have seen a “preference of many consumers for products of natural origin.”

This trend is reinforced by the desire of many immigrants to incorporate the traditional remedies of their former homes into the context of Western scientific medicine. A significant and related development has been the entry of many excellent scientists, especially Asians, into the research establishment.

- Natural News

PAGE 32

health news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Magnesium Oil – How to make and use it to reduce the Magnesium deficiency Many people are still not understanding the importance of magnesium in the same way they are considering iron or calcium. There are many vital roles magnesium plays for the proper functions in the body: • • • • • • • • •

It is a key mineral for the relaxation of muscles; It is required for maintaining blood sugar level; It is vital for cardiovascular health; It is necessary for a balanced hormones; It is essential for regulating mood and managing stress; It helps to fix calcium properly, thus strengthening bones; It helps to balance the body’s PH level by alkalizing the body; It helps to relieve constipation; It also helps prevent heart disease and stroke.

While normally the amount of magnesium you obtain from the food is not sufficient, that’s why magnesium deficiency is so common, regular supplement is a reliable way to improve the condition of magnesium deficiency, and consuming magnesium oil is also an effective way to improve symptoms by reducing the magnesium deficiency in the body, from reducing muscle cramping, improving sleep quality, reducing symptoms of PMS, relieving headaches and migraines to combating stress and depression, magnesium oil is also vital to support your overall

health.

How to Make and Use Magnesium Oil to Combat Magnesium Deficiency Magnesium Oil Recipe • •

1/2 cup filtered water 1/2 cup magnesium chloride flakes

Make water to a boil in a saucepan, turn off the heat and stir in the magnesium chloride flakes until dissolved.

Let it cool and pour into a spray bottle to use when need.

Notes on How to Use Magnesium Oil Spray the magnesium oil on the body and lightly rub it in, 10-30 sprays every day is recommended.

Apply it to the areas where are less sensitive, such as thighs and belly. The more sensitive areas such as neck, the creases of elbows and behind the knees should be avoid.

Use magnesium oil on your legs at least 12 hours later after shaving them.

It’s normal to appear slight powders on the skin after the magnesium oil dries, just rinsed them off.

After applying magnesium oil on your skin, do not take a shower inside half an hour, make sure it can be absorbed well into the skin.

Magnesium oil is super effective for treating muscle cramps, you can get a re-

lief instantly after applying magnesium. So you can keep a bottle of it for in case you experience a foot or calf cramp.

If you’re suffering from a sore muscle, rub magnesium oil on the areas, it will support the muscle healing. It’s also suggested to apply it after a sports injury.

Millions suffer daily from magnesium deficiency without knowing it, try to make magnesium oil and use it regularly to help you feel differences. Besides, include the foods high in magnesium in your diet is also essential. Following are some good choices: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Almonds Avocado Barley Brazil nuts Cashews Wheat germ Buckwheat Garlic Pecans Walnuts Soy beans Brown rice Shrimp Figs Dates Parsley - Natural News

This is what happens when you become deficient in these 3 minerals f you are feeling unwell, chances are you are suffering from a toxic body burden and nutrient deficiency. When these two factors team up, you can be assured that the host is going to be in for a lot of pain and suffering, and for the long haul if they can’t get to the root of their problems.

If you are dealing with any symptoms that are causing you pain, suffering, or are being managed through supplements or medications, you need to take a close look at these 3 minerals and see if you have signs of deficiency. If so, you can take a more direct approach to remedying them and your health, for good.

Magnesium deficiency symptoms Magnesium, also known as the miracle mineral, has many roles including the proper formation of teeth and bones, essential enzyme activation, regulating blood calcium levels, creating energy, regulating heart and muscle function, balancing blood sugar, relieving stress and improving sleep, and more.

So if your magnesium levels become too low, these functions can become compromised and lead to a wide array of symptoms, including: • • • • • • • •

Anxiety and depression Muscle spasms Abnormal heart rhythms Migraine headaches Restless leg syndrome Osteoporosis Diabetes Bowel disease

If you suffer from any of these symptoms, begin consuming the top 5 foods for magnesium deficiency, and consider appropriate supplementation.

Zinc deficiency symptoms Zinc is a relatively under appreciated mineral, but essential for proper cell function, efficient immune response, strong bones, healthy eyes, hair and skin, and proper liver, kidney, prostate, and pancreas function. It is also involved in over 300 enzymatic processes.

So it stands to reason that if you become too deficient in zinc that all these areas could needlessly suffer, which means you will suffer as well. Some common signs of zinc deficiency include: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Hair loss Weight loss Delayed wound healing Chronic infection Rough skin or rashes Depression Mental fatigue Acne Stunted growth Brittle thin nails (or nails with white spots) Poor sense of taste or smell Poor night vision Infertility Prostate issues (including low sperm count) High cholesterol

If any of these symptoms resonate with you, then consider foods high in zinc such as: • • • • • • •

Oysters Beef Eggs Chicken Fish Legumes Nuts (soaked): almonds, cashews, walnuts, pecans, and brazil nuts

•

Seeds (soaked): pumpkin, sesame,and sunflower

Iodine deficiency symptoms Iodine is the subject of much fear based propaganda, even though it is one of the safest minerals to ingest supplementally. Iodine plays a key role in thyroid hormones, blood pressure regulation, moods, blood sugar, cardiac rhythms, and cancer prevention and treatment. It is also antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, and anti-parasitic which makes it an excellent preventative and remedy against diseases created through any one of those types of infections.

Since iodine is heavily concentrated in the thyroid, salivary glands, brain, cerebrospinal fluid, gastric mucosa, breasts, ovaries, and the eyes, it makes sense that any deficiency could cause a negative impact on any or all of these areas. Physical signs of iodine deficiency include: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Thyroid disorders (hypothyroid and hyperthyroid) Breast disease Excess mucous production Fatigue (often chronic) Hair loss Lowered metabolism (difficulty losing weight) Infertility Cognitive impairments Anxiety, depression, or irritability Fibrocystic breasts Hemorrhoids Headaches and migraines Ovarian and sebaceous cysts Cancers (breast, ovarian, thyroid, prostate) - Natural News

PAGE 34

health & you

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Good music equals better health Dr. Lydia Thurton

drlydia@carib101.com

Health Tips You are stuck in traffic, slightly annoyed that you are bumper to bumper and then your song comes on. Instantly, break light visions disintegrate into thoughts of good times. You gyrate in your seat to the beat.

Only humans are moved by music.

We are unique in that way. However, what does music really do for us? It isn’t food.

Or sex. We don’t need it to survive. But a life without music is almost unimaginable.

Whether it is a powerful church hymn or a love song from times gone by, there are times when a song can illicit emotions even words cannot.

Researchers at McGill University in Montreal demonstrated that when we listen to our favourite song our brain is flooded with dopamine. This feel good neurotransmitter helps us make memories and feel good. Feeding your reward pathway with music is a safe way to keep your mood stable and healthy.

The playing of an instrument has been shown in research to ward off depression. Playing in a band or with others creates a synergy and meaningfulness that reinforces a positive mental state. The physical act of playing an instrument allows us to leave our mind for a bit and inhabit our bodies. That physical outlet, similar to exercise, is good for our

mental health. Relating to people through music is a beautiful expression of our similarities, how connected we all are.

Music benefits our immunity. Two types of immune cells, natural killer and IgA cells are made in greater quantities when we listen to music we love. IgA protects our lungs, digestive tract and genital region form microorganism infections. Natural killer cells attack viruses. What a great way to boost your immune system.

By reducing cortisol, our major stress hormone and lowering our blood pressure, music makes us feel more relaxed. Music also blunts our response to physical pain.

Patients recovering from surgery reported less pain when listening to music they enjoy. This is a great tool we can pass to younger generations. Teaching children to use music as an outlet for stress relief is a valuable coping skill in this hectic world.

Reasons to work out Monique Bartlett

monique@carib101.com

Fitness Looking for motivation to workout can be problematic. It’s not until there is something you’re not happy with about yourself before you decide to make working out a priority.

There are a number of things that can push you to change your habits and make your health a priority. Weighing yourself on your bathroom scale is a good idea however, a few pounds gain may shock you but it doesn’t re-

ally disgust you but extra fat certainly will.

Undress and stare at yourself in front of your mirror. If you don’t like what you see when you look at yourself in the mirror, then this should motivate you to workout. If you start now, you can control where it is now and if you really set your mind to it, you can lose a couple of inches in a just a few weeks.

Make a habit of not slouching in your chair but maintain an erect posture with your stomach tucked in. Slouching is a very bad habit. Not only is it bad for your back but it also gives you a very flabby figure. Sitting as straight as you can is a great way to ward off back problems. It can also make you look slimmer, leaner and taller.

Most of us tend to put on weight particularly in the mid section. Your stomach seems to have a mind of its own. One way to reduce the flab around your waistline is to breathe in air as strongly as you can and as you do that, hold in your stomach as much as

you can. Hold it like this for a few seconds and then slowly release your breath without letting out your stomach. Try breathing like this at least twenty or thirty times in a day.

Breathe like this whenever you can remember to. After the first day or two, you should feel the muscles of your stomach tightening each time you do this. This is how you will know that you are on the right track. If you practice this without fail for twenty one days, not only will you have set a new habit but at the end of the twenty first day, you will have lost at least an inch off your waistline.

Whether you have an event to attend that you want to look your best for or if you’re just not comfortable in your own skin any longer, whatever motivation it takes to get you where you want to be is the right motivation.

Stick to your routine and reap the benefits of your efforts. Do this for yourself and for your loved ones, so you can be around to spend more time with them.

11 natural remedies for stomach acidity for quick relief Many people of all ages may face the acidity problems, normally an excess digestive acids produced by the stomach can lead to some stomach issues, such as stomach ache, bad breath or gas. There are several reasons that can contribute to acidity: Consume spicy foods, unhealthy eating habits, alcohol or stress.

Heartburn is a main symptom of this problem, it’s really a bad experience if you’re suffering from it. There are many home remedies and natural ingredients available in your kitchen that are helpful for you to get relief from stomach acidity.

ducing stomach acid, and also has strong antibiotic and anti-fungal properties, which facilitate digestion. Simply add cinnamon powder to your soup or salad to get a relief, or sipping a tea made with a pinch of cinnamon and fresh ginger root.

What Are They, Why They Are Working and How to Apply Them For Acidity? Keep reading:

Apple Cider Vinegar Apple cider vinegar has a good alkalizing effect, thus helping treat stomach acidity effectively. Drink the mixture of 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a cup of water 2 times a day for a relief. Besides, it will also provides you a variety of vitamins and minerals to improve digestion.

Basil Leaves Make basil leaves tea by boiling some leaves in a cup of water and let it simmer for 10 minutes, add a teaspoon raw honey to taste and sip it frequently throughout the day. This tea will give you an instant relief from acidity as the soothing and carminative effects of basil leaves.

Banana Banana is high in potassium which helps to keep the level of acid production in the stomach in check. And the high fiber content in it also helps promote digestion. Eat a ripe banana at the first sign of acid upset.

Cinnamon This is another popular remedy for digestive problems as well as acidity. It works by re-

Tulsi Tulsi helps reduce the effect of gastric acids thanks to its anti-ulcer properties, it also helps stimulate your stomach to produce more mucous. Just chewing on a few tulsi leaves at the first sign of acidity to relieve the discomfort feeling.

Ginger Ginger root is well known to speed up digestion and protect your stomach against ulcers by reducing the effect of acid on the stomach.

Simply chewing a small piece of ginger or sipping a cup of ginger tea are both helpful.

Clove Clove aids digestion and combats the symptoms of acidity, this super herb also has carminative properties and helps the movement of food down the stomach. Simply chewing 2-3 cloves to get an instant relief as the juices are releases into your system, which will lower

acid reflux immediately.

Elaichi Elaichi is well known for promoting digestion and relieving stomach spasms. It also useful for soothing the inner lining of the stomach to help it ward off the effects of excess acid produced in the stomach. Chew on elaichi regularly after each meal to reduce the amount of acidity you experience.

Cumin seeds Cumin seeds aid in digestion well, and also works as a great acid neutralizer. Crush some roasted cumin seeds and stir into a cup of water, drink it 2-3 times a day, or after every meal to relieves the acidity.

Jaggery Jaggery becomes alkaline in the digestive system, which will speed up digestion and also reduce stomach acidity. Just sucking on a small piece of jaggery after each meal.

Fennel Fennel works well to help relieve stomach gas and aid digestion. Drink tea made by steeping 1-2 teaspoons of fennel seeds in a cup of hot water after each meal, especially a spicy meal.

So next time when you’re suffering from acidity, try these natural ingredients in your home instead of reaching for the antacid. They will provide you many other benefits as well when curing an upset stomach.

- Natural News

Wednesday, January 27, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

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Morning Sickness vs Hyperemesis Gravidum Michelle Smith

michelle@carib101.com

Health Care As your Health Care Advocate and as a health care professional with over ten years’ experience in our health care system, I know that symptoms can mimic each other to the point that even doctors think that symptoms are of the lesser. With any encounter in the health care system, it is important to understand what symptoms need to be seen or explained before a diagnosis can be made. So grab a pen and let’s get started.

MORNING SICKNESS IS only MORNING SICKNESS: How many times have you heard that? Normally, if nausea and vomiting is to occur it normally will start in the early stages of pregnancy. For many women the symptoms of morning sickness are their first signs of

pregnancy. Most pregnant women find that the morning sickness improves after the 12th week of pregnancy. Unfortunately, for some women symptoms persist throughout their pregnancy. What causes morning sickness? Doctors still aren’t exactly sure what causes morning sickness, but the most popular theory is that morning sickness is the body’s reaction to the pregnancy hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone produced by the embryo following implantation. The presence of hCG is detected in pregnancy tests which is produced at higher levels during the first trimester than at any other time during pregnancy, However, there is a fine line between morning sickness and HG (hyperemesis gravidarum). It can be quite a challenge for the average woman to convince their doctor that what they are experiencing is Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG).

When Kate Middleton was hospitalized during her last pregnancy, it was noted that hyperemesis gravidarum (severe nausea and vomiting of pregnancy) was the reason, which brought attention to the fact that “morning sickness” can be a serious matter.

Navigating the health care system can be complicated especially when you are pregnant. You can be overly emotional and unable

to communicate the facts. Wouldn’t it be great if everyone had a Health Care Advocate? If you are from a cultural background that prides itself on home remedies, my advice to you is that morning sickness normally responds to home remedies while HG will not. Most women will suffer from morning sickness but only a few will experience HG. If you can’t keep fluids down, contact your doctor as soon as possible to prevent dehydration. Signs of dehydration include producing very little urine, not peeing for eight hours, or producing very dark urine. Some of the most common symptoms of HG: vomiting more than three or four times per day, becoming dehydrated, feeling light-headed or dizzy, losing more than ten pounds or five percent of your body weight due to vomiting or feeling nearly constant nausea.

Unfortunately, the condition often goes undiagnosed, because pregnant women think it’s just part of pregnancy.

If your nausea interferes with your daily living, you need to seek treatment. ‘When you have to call in sick and stay home from work; when you can’t cook because it nauseates or exhausts you; when you can’t have sex; when you can’t take care of your family, this is not normal,’ Some women may need hospitaliza-

tion for IV treatment to help with dehydration.

If that doesn’t work some women also can have treatment through tube feeding or TPN. But this all depends on the severity of a women’s ability to keep nutrients down. If you have a history of HG in previous pregnancies let your doctor know.

Lastly, here are some remedies for conquering morning sickness. Every woman with HG needs plenty of rest and some changes to their diet and lifestyle. The same things that many women find useful for everyday morning sickness may be worth trying.

These include: eat soda crackers fifteen minutes before getting up, try foods that are thought to reduce nausea, like lemonade, ginger ale or watermelon and avoid spicy or greasy foods, eat small meals every two hours, eating when hungry and not skipping meals, eat cold foods, which are thought to be easier to tolerate than hot foods, drink enough fluid every day, perhaps a small amount at a time and never during meals, get up slowly and don’t lie down after a meal, avoid getting too warm or being near strong odours or try complementary therapies such as ginger tea or tablets, acupuncture and acupressure.

This has been watching out for your health. Remember you are the most important part of your health care team.

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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Creating wealth using a financial advisor Fazaad Bacchus

fazaad@carib101.com

Finance Specialist Wealth doesn’t just happen by chance. It takes many factors to create it and no one better than a financial advisor can help you create it. A recent report from the Investment Funds Institute of Canada highlights that investors who work with a Financial Advisor have three times the net worth and four times the investable assets than those who do not.

One may win the lottery, come into money or could have been left an inheritance and for sure that will constitute wealth, but have you ever noticed over the years that persons

who inherit sudden wealth either by winning a lottery or an inheritance are usually broke five years later?

What causes this is a pure function of a lack of proper advice and obviously proper financial planning. While the odds of winning the lottery are extremely difficult, attaining wealth is not so difficult. So let’s talk about how you can create wealth.

In the last printed issue I suggested that you stay true to your financial goals and that you should start by saving at least 5% of your income with the ideal being around 10%.

Now further to this, let’s create a saving objective. There is no fun in saving money unless it’s attached to a goal.

For some it could be a down payment on a home, their children’s education or very importantly a proper retirement. Whatever the savings goal, there are four things to always be on the lookout for. Safety of your capital, amount to be invested, your investment returns and your time horizons.

When using a financial advisor, the

first service he will provide is to determine your objectives and goals. No doubt some objectives may be unrealistic, so a good financial advisor will also guide you on alternate plans in case they don’t materialize.

However, a client needs to be very honest and upfront with the advisor, be very clear with your financial situation. A half hearted plan and effort will just not suffice.

A good advisor always considers your risk profile. Some people are little fazed when the market falls, while some can fall into severe depression. Knowing your risk tolerance allows the advisor to place your investments where you can sleep at night.

Choosing the right investment can be quite a daunting task with so many mutual funds out there. Which is really the best one for me? A common mistake clients make is that they buy the one that’s doing well and hope it continues to do so or hope that it doesn’t fall. That is not a good strategy; your advisor should be researching the market and looking for ways to grow your

money with the best possible returns given your risk tolerance.

It’s also a fact that many persons prefer to do their own investing, however at what point in time do you think you should turn things over to a professional? It’s the same as going to a doctor. You can read all about medicine, but when the time comes you should not self medicate. Even doctors know that if they are ill they need the services of another doctor, a qualified professional.

Using an advisor creates discipline which leads to more frequent contributions and every contribution adds up, ensuring you reach your financial goals. Staying focused on your savings goals and choosing the right investments will overtime allow you to create absolute wealth. It’s important that you also be involved in the financial planning discussions in great detail so that you may understand what the underlying investments are and what changes are happening. Start your planning today. Find a financial advisor and start building wealth.

Buying a fixer-upper or a tear-down Ron Barlay

ron@carib101.com

Real Estate I have recently sold a number of homes which either require much renovations or are to be torn-down. There are a number of mature neighbourhoods in the GTA that currently have quite a few homes that are being rebuilt or extensively renovated. So what are the advantages of buying a fixer-upper and what are the advantages of buying a teardown?

One of the great things about buying a fixer-upper is that every time is the right time; it is not dependent upon whether the real estate market is hot or cold. Real estate properties that need some tender loving care can be a real bargain during any real estate climate. The best fixer upper is the home that everybody will covet when it is fixed up,

but few can see past its imperfections to see the potential.

Location, location, location. Location drives saleability. Buying a fixer-upper or a tear-down can be a wonderful opportunity to acquire property in a neighborhood that is expensive. For some, it is the only way.

Fixer-uppers are usually on terrific lots that are big, wide, private or otherwise scenic. So usually the selling feature of the property is the location and the lot itself. Those details obviously can’t be changed. The home’s interior and exterior can.

Buying a fixer-upper or a teardown is a great way to obtain a custommade home. Whether you are the designer and builder or whether you hire an architect and a general contractor, a fixer-upper is a wonderful way to create your dream home.

Depending on how much work needs to be done, these homes open a world of opportunity to choose your flooring, your kitchen, your bathrooms and much more.

For that reason, fixer-uppers can provide much pride and satisfaction. I have had the privilege of selling countless fixer-uppers to many clients. When I return months later to say “hi” and see how they are doing, I am always incredibly happy to see such wonderful transformations. And my

clients are always beaming with smiles, as they show off their “new” home. It is heartwarming to see.

During my twenty five year career as a real estate agent, I’ve also assisted many people with buying tear-down properties. In some cases, a buyer may be interested in the land on which a house sits, but he may not want the house itself. In others, the house may be condemned and has to come down anyway. If you find yourself interested in a tear-down, you need to know that there are several special considerations that need to be made. Buying a tear-down is a lot different than buying a traditional property. Look below to pick up a few tips that I’ve learned through the years.

Can You Get a Residential Loan for a Tear-Down?

To have the smoothest experience possible, you’re going to want to get a residential loan for the property that you’d like to buy.

However, that’s not always possible with a tear-down. If the house itself is condemned, the land is considered to be unimproved. No house is technically on the property, so a residential loan is out of the question. That’s a problem because your other financing options are likely to require higher down pay-

ments and will probably have higher interest rates as well.

Leave at Least Part of the Structure Intact If the house that you’d like to tear down isn’t condemned, you should be able to get a residential loan. However, you might not want to tear it down completely. If you do, you will have to deal with getting new permits and the process can be extremely complex and confusing. One way to get around it is by leaving at least a few walls standing. In that case, you will technically be rebuilding the house. The permits shouldn’t be as difficult.

If the foundation is still in good shape, you can save time and money by using it for your new house too.

Build the New House before Tearing Down the Old One Another possible way to simplify the process is by building your new house before tearing the old one down. This will eliminate issues regarding financing, but it could prove to be impossible. Is there enough room to build another house on the same land? If you want the new house to be on the site of the old one, that will be an issue too.

Success for the Caribbean and black student Kathy McDonald kathy@carib101.com

Student Education The Commission on Systemic Racism in the Ontario Criminal Justice System was established in 1992. The commission’s study examined the practice, procedures and policies of the Ontario Justice system. Among the several findings, it unearthed the problem of systemic Anti-Black Racism in the educational arena and examined the impact on Black youth. In the absence of any sig-

nificant improvement since the findings of this study, the United Way of Peel Region, in the spring of 2015 released the F.A.C.E.S of Peel report (Facilitating Access, Change and Equity in the Systems). Some of the findings suggest that Black youth were inappropriately streamed in schools, Black kids especially Black males were disproportionately dropping out and the rate of expulsion was also disproportionately high for Black students.

Numerous studies have been done by various organizations, the issues and problems have been well documented. It is time to ask the hard questions, first of ourselves and secondly of our leaders. This article attempts to challenge both parents and all stakeholders of the educational system to begin to make a committed, serious and real change to address the perceived and real conditions that are hindering academic success of students with a Caribbean heritage especially Black males.

School boards, as an educational body, have a role. I work for you. I can advocate for you. Use me, all residents of wards 3 and 4 in Brampton. I am your Trustee. I will be happy to answer any questions from readers of my column. Send me your questions at Kathy@Carib101.com. Readers, your Trustees work for you. Engage them and get them to advocate for you when necessary.

Get involved and hold your School Boards accountable for the instruction, mental wellbeing and learning of your children. Why not attend a school board meeting?

What are we as parents doing to change these perceived conditions highlighted by countless studies? We, as parents, have a role. I would like to challenge my readers especially the parents to examine themselves as we all are accountable to the youth. Parents, we need to do due diligence and research and access the plethora of resources available to help our kids succeed. Growing

up in the Caribbean education was a priority, it was the gate way to escaping and alleviating poverty. Education empowers people and can give a voice to the voiceless. We as a Caribbean community need to return to this mindset. Are we are too busy to get involved in our child’s education?

Do you know the difference between academic or applied? What do they mean? What do they really mean for our child’s future? What programs are best suited for our child’s learning style. At the PDSB we have a strings program as well as advanced placement courses that can be used towards university credits. Did you know at the PDSB we have a first class Truck and Coach facility? Check it out and take an amazing virtual tour. http://www. peelschools.org/parents/programs/regional/ truckandcoach - Continued On Page 37

Wednesday, January 27, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Steps in family law proceedings; What you need to know Valerie Dye

valerie@carib101.com

Legal Matters In Ontario, when a family law matter is brought before the court it does not automatically go to trial. Various steps are taken by the Court in an effort to bring about an early resolution to family law cases so that litigants will be spared the expense and time of going through a trial. In Ontario most family law cases do not go to trial.

The first step in most family law proceedings in Ontario is the case conference. This is the most important step in the family law proceedings as it allows the parties to go before the Judge and hear the Judge’s views on their matter. The case conference allows parties to have an idea of the strengths or weakness of their case and to explore the chances of settling the case. Other purposes of the case conference as outlined in Rule 17 (4) of the Family Law Rules include, ensuring that parties make disclosure of relevant evidence, noting admissions made by the parties and setting dates for the next step in the proceedings. It is important to note that at case conferences the court cannot make a substantive order unless both parties consent to that order. This underscores the fact that the main aim behind the holding of a case conference is to allow for an early resolution of the dispute. If parties can arrive at a resolution at the case conference then a final order may be made and the matter will not proceed further.

If a party wants an order to be made he or she may choose to bring a motion after

a case conference has been held. Unlike the case conference the court can make orders at a motion without the consent of both parties.

Except for cases of emergency, a motion can only be brought after a case conference has been held.

If parties cannot resolve their issues at a case conference or at a motion the next step in the court proceedings would be a settlement conference. Again the court will try to facilitate a settlement of the dispute.

Parties will narrow the issues for trial and ensure that all disclosure has been made.

The main item for disclosure in family law proceedings is the financial statement which must be filed by both parties. It is important for both parties to make full disclosure of their financial standings including assets, liabilities, earnings and debts.

One of the most important outcomes of the settlement conference is that parties will obtain the judge’s view on what the outcome of the case is likely to be. The judge may also provide guidance and suggestions to the parties in an effort to help them settle the disputes. Obviously, since both the case conference and the settlement conference judges are involved in helping parties navigate the issues and the possibility of settlement, neither judge will be the trial judge if the case should go to trial. Nonetheless, the settlement conference judge is able to use his or her experience as a judge to provide guidance as to how the trial judge is likely to decide the case.

Quite a number of cases are settled at this stage. However, if parties fail to arrive at a settlement the judge will schedule a trial management conference which is essentially preparation for trial. Trials can be quite costly and it for this reason that judges and some lawyers encourage parties to explore the possibility of settling their issues either at the case conference or at the settlement conference stage.

Parent involvement, the key to success Continued From Page 36 -- Have you ever heard of the IBT program? Did you know it’s time to register your child to kindergarten at the PDBS? What is a HSSM? Are you aware of the all specialized programs and the deadlines to apply for them? Bussing is not a reason to select a program for your child. Take a serious look at your child’s learner profile and find the best program to challenge and bring out the best in him or her. A lot of these questions can be answered on the website of your School Board or by simply speaking with your child’s or children’s principal.

When was the last time you called or visited your child’s or children’s school?

Teachers, administration and staff for the most part have your child’s or children’s well-being as a priority. A lot of teachers spend countless hours doing professional development to equip their students for 21st century learning. Most teachers have a growth mind set and are lifelong learners.

However when you encounter the exception to the rule, have a conversation with the principal, school superintendent or your local

Trustee. Teaching pedagogy has changed, the classroom has changed and how students learn has changed, so be informed!

Get involved and do not leave your child’s future solely in a guidance councilor’s hands. Do not get me wrong, most guidance counselors are consummate professionals but who knows your child best?

What about that one bad apple? Parents are children’s first teachers and usually know their children better than any educator. Get involved. Our children are the most important investment and the best gift we can give them is an education and help them to be the best that they can be. There are a myriad of studies conducted that prove that when all contributing factors are considered including socio-economic, natural ability, resource availability and the quality of teaching; it is parent involvement that is the greatest contributing factor to a student’s success. So parents journey with me as we work diligently to make each student be the best that they can be. Walk Good-Belle Marche!!

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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 27, 2016

The fight to reign in 407ETR continues Tammy Flores

tammy@carib101.com

407ETR Matters An open letter to: Minister of Transportation, Steven DelDuca.

In response to my repeated plea for you to intervene in the 407 ETR fiasco, January 18th, 2016, Ministry of Transportation Analyst, Chris Conroy stated “it is unclear on what grounds the Minister of Transportation would have to take action against the private company”.

Mr. DelDuca, perhaps if my repeated questions were answered on the responsibilities the Ministry has to hold 407 ETR accountable for ignoring consumer protection laws and my questions surrounding who gave 407 ETR permission to legally hound drivers and charge fees and interest for up to fifteen years and where that permission is written, I think we can better understand how you, the Minister of Transportation, can take action against a private company that keeps ignoring consumer protection laws.

Mr. Conroy said, “while I appreciate your ongoing concerns and feelings that you have not been provided with adequate responses, it is clear from the repetition of your enquiries that the information already provided by the Ministry of Transportation remains unacknowledged.”

In my email to the Ministry of Transportation, January 7th, 2016, I said, “you gave answers that DID NOT address the responsibilities the Ministry has to hold 407 ETR accountable for ignoring consumer protection laws”.

Mr. Conroy’s statement is incorrect.

I acknowledge that the Ministry of Transportation gave me information; however the information provided didn’t answer my questions on the responsibilities the Ministry of Transportation has to hold 407 ETR accountable for ignoring consumer protection laws.

I can go back in the e-mails between myself and the Ministry of Transportation over the years and point out how the Ministry of Transportation put me off to the Ministry of Consumer Services because it was felt my “repetitive inquiries” would be better suited for them to answer. The Ministry of Consumer Services passed the buck back to the Ministry of Transportation. They said the Ministry of Transportation is the regulatory body and as such, the responsibility falls under the Ministry of Transportation’s jurisdiction to address this. To date, I still have no answer.

Mr. Conroy says, “The Ministry of Transportation has yet to receive evidence, other than your repeated general assertions, that it has failed to comply with applicable laws.”

What does listing the responsibilities the Ministry of Transportation has, to hold 407 ETR accountable for ignoring consumer protection laws, have to do with assertions that the 407 ETR failed to comply with applicable laws?

407 ETR agreed they would follow all the laws of Ontario and Canada when they signed the agreement to build and operate Highway 407. Most definitely, 407 ETR ignored the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act for many, many years. This is not an assertion. An assertion is a positive statement or declaration, often without support or reason. The most recent Supreme Court ruling demonstrated that

the company was not exempt from the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act. 407 ETR DID NOT comply with the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act for many years. My statement that they ignored consumer protection laws is not an assertion. It’s a fact!

Why isn’t the Ministry of Transportation prepared to see this as a failure, on 407 ETR’s part, to comply with applicable laws?

Accusing me of “general assertions” doesn’t negate the fact that the Ministry of Transportation has a responsibility to hold 407 ETR accountable for ignoring consumer protection laws.

The Ministry of Transportation has failed to answer my question regarding what responsibilities the Ministry of Transportation has to hold 407 ETR accountable for ignoring consumer protection laws.

Mr. Conroy said, “You ask about former Minister of Transportation Jim Bradley’s comments, which you have indicated asks 407 ETR to comply with applicable laws.”

This statement is incorrect. In my November 23rd, 2015 and December 2nd, 2015 and January 7th, 2016 e-mail, I pointed out former Minister of Transportation, Jim Bradley’s comments in a Toronto Star article from December 1st, 2009 where he said, “Ontario motorists who use Highway 407 and forget to pay their bills can legally be hounded for fifteen years if they don’t pay up.”

I also made reference to the company’s comments that they had permission to do this. While former Minister of Transportation, Jim Bradley’s comments do not address the predatory business practices the company continues to entrap the public with, I still want to know where he got his information and where it is written. I also want to know who gave the company permission to hound people for fifteen years. 407 ETR said they were given permission to conduct themselves in this way.

Who gave it to them?

I pointed out, in my many communications with the Ministry of Transportation, that I wanted answers because I have been essentially left in debtor’s prison, through absolutely no fault of my own and the province doesn’t seem to give a damn.

My questions on the former Minister of Transportation’s comments remain unanswered.

I acknowledge that Mr. Conroy responded to this question by saying “As mentioned previously, the Ministry of Transportation has yet to receive evidence, other than your repeated general assertions, that it has failed to comply with applicable laws. You mention specifically the court decision regarding the limitations period. As explained previously, this statute limits the period of time during which a party may commence court proceedings in Ontario in respect of a claim.

Please note that the Limitations Act, 2002 specifically states that it applies to court proceedings. The Limitations Act, 2002 does not address or relate to plate denial. We have not received comments from members of the public that 407 ETR commenced a court proceeding against them outside the two year limitations period.”

But again, this does not answer my question on who gave the company permission to conduct themselves in this manner. Nor does this answer where former Minister of Transportation, Jim Bradley, got his information.

Who gave 407 ETR permission and where was that permission written that enables the company to legally hound drivers and charge fees and interest for up to fifteen years?

Since nobody at the Ministry of Transportation has been able to answer my questions, I am appealing to you. I feel the answer to these questions will assist the Ministry of Transportation’s ability to intervene in the 407 ETR fiasco.

Wednesday, January 27, 2016 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

insight

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Attending to stress! Take a look within Simone Smith simone@carib101.com

A Better Tomorrow Stress has always been something that many can relate to because we all feel it; unfortunately, many of us are unable to deal with this fact about life. We are all going to experience stress. We have to fully understand what it means and begin to see how it affects us as individuals. As an educational columnist, it is important that I understand my role to educate all aspects of life. The majority of our life lessons are not learned in the classroom; they are learned in our day to day experiences. It is these experiences which shape who we are and what we are going to become. The important thing to remember is that we are in control of a lot of what happens to us. It would be ridiculous to say that we are in control of everything; we know that is not true. What I am going to offer in my columns this year, are lessons on how

to control our thoughts. Our thoughts contribute to stress; stress contributes to moods; moods contribute to behaviors (majority of those are unconscious) and our behaviors dictate our actions. If we are not fully aware of what is going on, this can lead to serious mental and physical issues.

Defining and Understanding Stress: Dr. Stephen Sinatra of Heart MD Institute defines stress as a measure of your mental and physical resistance to circumstances beyond your control. Some of these stresses include: threats to our life, demands placed on us by family, friends and our work, changes to which you attach special significant importance (death, loss of relationship, loss of a friendship, loss of a pet, loss of a job, loss of a child, etc.) and changes to which you may struggle or feel uncertainty (attending University for the first time; moving in with a boy/girlfriend for the first time; taking a job in another country; leaving a job to start your own business or live your dream).

It is not uncommon for me to speak to clients who are stressed and do not even realize that they are stressed. I want to take it a little deeper and identify the names of the different levels of stress that we are capable of feeling.

Eustress: This is short-term stress that encourages us to push ourselves a little harder.

This is experienced by individuals who play sports and actors and actresses. It is that butterfly feeling in your stomach that usually disappears after you have completed a task.

Hypostress: I found this one the most interesting. This is an underload of stress; it happens when we start feeling anxious for not doing enough. This might be experienced by someone who is working in a group and they may not feel like they are offering enough to the group. The worry might be that they look bad to the other members of that group. This problem can be easily resolved when you take initiative and become more productive.

Hyperstress: This occurs when a person becomes loaded with too many tasks and responsibilities. We are unable to adapt to the changes or cope with all that is happening.

This is the type of stress that is experienced by that person you call and they say, “I can’t today, I have so much work to get done.” Entrepreneurs, teachers and students are known to suffer from hyper stress.

Distress: This is the type of stress that can do the most damage. Distress arises when we lose control over a situation. The worst thing about it is that the source of the stress

is usually unclear to you. It is related to anxiety; this fear, due to loss of control, causes us to suppress the real issues and we now have this vicious cycle of unclear thoughts and suppressed issues. It is important to understand how much our thoughts can contribute to stress and the escalation of conflict in our lives. Controlling our thoughts can be so hard to do. Here is a list of some of the thoughts that can cause damage to our psyche and spike the levels of stress that we are feeling: Irrational Thinking (this is an action or opinion given with lack of reason, and usually when someone is under emotional distress).

Ineffectual Thinking (these are thoughts that are seen as having no effect, or are incompetent thoughts). Self-damaging thinking (negative thoughts about who you are).

Self-damning (beating up on yourself after you have made a mistake). Wishful Thinking (“If I win the lottery, I swear life will be better.”). Intolerance (this is when you make the choice not to accept views, beliefs or behaviors that differ from our own).

I want the readers to understand that taking control of your life is the first step. I promise that I am going to do my best to assist you through this year. It will not be easy, but at least you know that there is someone who will be able to guide you through this journey that we call life.

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FOR SALE PERSONALS

SEEKING JOB: A Registered Health Professional looking for home care work. Call Marie Smith @ (905) 458-1124, thank you.

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WORSHIP: Worship with us at Solid Rock Miracle Center 689 Warden Ave at 11am .

Sunday school at 10.05am. 416-293-1839

SALON CHAIR: Salon Chair and Aesthetic room for rent in Mississauga call Lorna 905-782-2177

WEST INDIAN CONGREGATION Emmanuel. Mission Church of the Nazarene.

Service at 1.30 p.m.1875 Sheppard Ave. West, Toronto, ON, M3L 1Y6 For info call Rev. Jerold Boodhoo 416-303-7163

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PAGE 42

astrology

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 27, 2016

ARIES

TAURUS

Since mid December, Mercury and Pluto have put the squeeze on you in some major way. They’ll continue to push, pull, and prod you into the start of February, but you’re in an upswing now thanks to Venus on a forward march and the end of Mercury retrograde. Whether or not you have something special planned, Saturday’s full moon sets up a fun, let-yourself-off-the-hook weekend.

Perhaps you haven’t found your way yet, but that’s about to change. Saturday’s kick-start full moon is sure to throw the action switch.

Venus and Mercury also support your surefootedness. Take charge and rewrite the script. Great progress can be made in short order. Tuesday and Wednesday are optimal for taking on the task.

GEMINI

CANCER

Extra caretaking or safeguarding is in order at the top of the day on Friday. Saturday’s full moon makes for a busy, upbeat, stimulating, informing, and news-generating day.

Perhaps there’s something special to do or someone special to see. Go ahead—go for the best, and splurge if you want to. Thanks to the end of Mercury retrograde, better timing is now on your side.

Saturday’s jump-start full moon could prove to be a positive catalyst, especially if it opens you up to a fresh way of thinking, seeing, or interfacing. Take a risk on something or someone new—you stand to gain. Venus and Mercury give you something more substantial to work with and toward. Tuesday/Wednesday, get to work, get it fixed, get it handled.

LEO

VIRGO

As Saturday wears on, watch for the Leo full moon to strike flint. An impulse or a flash of insight can be a game changer. Spontaneity delivers the best of your evening’s entertainment; Sunday also delivers the goods. Improvements can be made in the week ahead, especially regarding work, health, budgeting, scheduling, time management, and organization.

Your sensitive side is on display Friday; your strength and determination are too.

Where there’s a will, there’s always a way.

Help out and be supportive, but also keep boundaries in mind. The weekend is great for romance, creative projects, or indulging in good-quality time to yourself. Tuesday/ Wednesday, give it your all and watch the good it does you.

LIBRA

SCORPIO

On Friday, put self-preservation needs first and don’t let guilt get the better of you.

There’s no need to put yourself under unnecessary pressure. Do what’s required, stay budget-conscious, and use your time wisely.

Romance or an entertainment perk-me-up hits the spot on Saturday evening. The full moon in Leo keeps that good vibe going through Sunday.

Friday is good for catching up with yourself, others, or the news. Beyond being a good weekend to socialize, Saturday/Sunday could throw the switch on your next chapter.

Perhaps there’s something new in the home or someone new to know; an anniversary to celebrate; a project, career opportunity, or new address in the works. Tuesday/Wednesday, you’ll make great headway.

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

On Friday evening, cozy up with your sweetheart or get comfortable on your own.

By Saturday night, the full moon in light-afresh-spark Leo is game for anything. Satisfaction is on a ready dial-up; that good vibe continues through Sunday. Monday begins a full-swing, productive week. Use Tuesday/ Wednesday to tend to unfinished business, or make corrections or improvements.

Someone or something could make quite an impression on you. As well, the full moon can make for a big-money weekend and/or an exciting bedroom romp. What’s off goes on again. Through next Friday, Mercury/ Pluto hits the refresh button in some notable way. Venus, freshly into Capricorn, brings good results and feedback. On Wednesday, your stars are optimized.

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Has Mercury retrograde waylaid or delayed you? That’s about to change. Friday sets you into an upswing. You’ll feel the rise of Saturday’s full moon like a fresh battery recharge.

Venus and Mercury on the move will give you something more substantial to work with and toward. Tuesday and Wednesday are great for problem-solving, upgrades, and corrections.

Pressure or strain could start your day on Friday, but the end of it can be just the opposite.

Saturday’s full moon could see you pulled into something unexpected. On the plus side, it could produce an insight, a discovery, or a saving grace. Sunday through mid next week is productive for talks, meetings, presentations, paperwork, and advice-seeking.

March 20 - April 19

May 20 - June 21

July 22 - August 22

September 22 - October 23

November 22 - December 21

January 19 - February 18

April 19 - May 20

June 21 - July 22

August 22 - September 22

Across 2) Group of cats 5) Baby cat 6) Where cats were worshipped 8) Sound of contentment 9) Short or no tail 12) Like human twins 14) Any cat with distinctive fur pattern 17) Can have five or six toes 18) Favourite herb

October 23 - November 22

December 21 - January 19

February 18 - March 19

Down 1) Cat adjective (from Latin) 3) Cats’ bathroom 4) Famous Internet cat 7) Used to clean themselves 10) Warning sound 11) Fancy ____ 13) Usual prey 15) Unlucky colour?

16) Three-coloured cat

PAGE 44

self help

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Three questions that help move a vision from dream to reality Keisha Johnson

keisha@carib101.com

Professional Development At the start of the year, there is usually much furor about vision casting. For many of us we have been there, done that and seen little results.

Our society tells us that part of our adult responsibility is to have a vision to indicate that we are serious about life, that we have a plan and that we are going somewhere. Ancient wisdom teaches that without a vision, people perish. So we create impressive vision boards and punchy vision statements but the actual realization of the vision eludes some of us.

With every unfulfilled dream we lose hope. At that point, we are at risk of becoming nonchalant, resistant and even dismissive of pursuing the vision we had in mind that once so excited us.

So why are we not realizing the visions we create? What are we missing?

The answer is not simple, so let’s examine some facts about visions and what it takes to attain them, then you can determine where the gaps may be for you.

A starting point is to understand the truth about a vision.

First, a vision is not tangible. It is a picture we have in our imagination of an idea, a concept or object. We need a vision to be clear about what we want to achieve, but without a proper plan and taking the required actions to implement it, a vision is unlikely to materialize.

Second, when we map the vision out on a vision board it is still not yet realized. Even with the most thorough research and strategic planning, the vision is still in the realm of ideation; if we leave it there, without the necessary follow through actions, that’s where it remains, unfulfilled.

The same is true for a vision statement. While it may succinctly capture and articulate the vision and get us excited, it remains an affirmation of our desire, hope or intention. The affirmation is necessary to reinforce the belief we have for and in the vision, to motivate us, keep us focused and to tell others the end result we are pursuing. But affirmations without the requisite supporting actions are not enough to fulfill a vision, much like “faith without works is dead”.

To make the vision real we have to actively pursue it. That means, action your strategic plan. In preparation to launch out, consider the following three questions that could affect your success.

Is the vision plain or clear?

Can you articulate your vision to a 7th

grader in language they understand and does your enthusiasm and belief in the vision generate confidence and buy-in from others? To fulfill most visions requires the support and involvement from others. The first step in attracting the right team and talent to move the dream into reality is to be able to articulate the dream and get people onboard with you. Make the vision plain, especially for those whose talent and resources are needed to fulfill it.

Is the vision the right fit for you, for the times, for the place and for the people you wish to engage?

The question of ‘fit’ is often overlooked but has the potential to rob the steam required to persist with your vision especially when you encounter challenges and setbacks.

To determine the right fit for you as the visionary, answer: how does the vision align with your passions and your core values? Your passions are what you care most about and will do whatever is necessary to make time and sacrifices for. Your core values are your uncompromisable principles that you will die for. Your core values and passions are the fuel that will make you relentless and committed to push against the odds to fulfill your vision. Ensure that your vision is complementary to both.

To determine fit for place, times and people, do an assessment of the external factors, trends and stimuli related to each that could affect the realization

of the vision. This is necessary to ensure that the people you target, the environment in which you will operate and the times you are in are all conducive to the vision thriving.

Some of the questions to answer are: is there a demand, how big, small and what is the room for growth, what price will the market bear, what edge do you have on the competition if there are competitors, where can you access funding to ensure sustainability, how accessible and available are the other resources required to fulfill the vision, do the people on the team understand and share a commitment to the vision, do they have the required skill set and are fully motivated etc.

Is the vision attainable?

Because our imagination is a boundless creative sphere unhindered by resources (time, people, assets, money, technology etc.), our visions can be large and lofty. That is encouraged so long as the vision - the ideal you imagine can still be practically fulfilled even if it’s a new invention, never seen or tried. To make this determination may require some research and exploration and even possibly a refining of the vision.

When these questions are adequately answered, the strategic plan for implementation is much more feasible and those charged to fulfill the vision can then move forward in unity, confidence and with a clear path to ensuring success.