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VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 17 • WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18TH 2017

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Though the Jamaica Diaspora Conference came and went more than two months ago, Jamaicans continue to celebrate 55 years of independence in Canada. Under the auspices of Her Excellency Janice Miller, High Commissioner of Jamaica to Canada, A-Supreme Foundation collaborated with the Jamaica 55 Independence Canada Committee to host their 3rd Annual Grand Charity Gala at the International Plaza Hotel, A Different Booklist co-owner Itah Sadu and management professional Henderson Ifil hosted, taking guests through a night of remarks about A-Supreme’s work and musical

performances to raise funds for the Golden Circle Dignity Campaign. The theme for the night was ‘A New Era of Care’, demonstrating A-Supreme’s commitment to providing for lower-income seniors, through their newest campaign.

Proceeds from the night support the Golden Circle Dignity Campaign, which is aimed at raising $100,000 to provide 500 GTA seniors access to homecare they couldn’t afford otherwise.

On the second floor, at the Plaza Ballroom Foyer, guests were greeted by the playing of the Crawford Band while browsing the many items on sale.

Throughout the night, guests were served a four-course meal to the musical routines of Reggae artist Visionary, Torontoborn singer Mel C, and R&B artist Junior Whisper. Other performers for the night included Letna Allen, Lauren Beckford, Michelle Francis, and the City Soul Band.

Ontario Minister of Education Mitzi Hunter was in attendance as one of the speakers. “I recognize the need to support our seniors because they have given so much to our community,” she said.

Continued On Page 7

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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Sharine Taylor- An; Afro-Jamaican Writer on a Mission

Sharine Taylor possesses a reputable line of work that precedes her. As a Toronto-based writer mostly covering issues relating to Jamaican culture and the diaspora here in Canada, Taylor has contributed to a community of writers who aim to authentically present Jamaican culture and society in mainstream journalism.

With an insightful, critical and highly opinionated approach, many of her pieces range from topics relating to music, pop culture and the Caribbean society with a specific focus on her Jamaican culture where she bears much insight due to her heritage.

Taylor was born in Canada to Jamaican parents. Her mother hailing from rural Trelawny and her father a St. Andrew native. According to Taylor, her Jamaican background has always been a major part of her identity keeping her aware of basic Jamaican culture and lifestyle. However, it was up until a few years ago after enrolling in the media studies program at the University of Toronto-Scarborough, that she discovered an opportunity to incorporate her background into her journalistic work, creating a specialized beat that would later become her passion. She found the need for a more authentic and culturally grounded representation of Jamaica and other Caribbean products in mainstream media and she made it her top priority.

“It all started a few years ago around 2015, right after Justin Bieber released Sorry,” she said in an interview. “I think that’s where the discourse surrounding dancehall situated in pop culture began and I was really upset by what I saw because the discourse that I saw was attributing the revival of dancehall to Justin Bieber and in my mind it had never died but it wasn’t until the following year of June 2016 where I was finally able to articulate a lot of what I was feeling in an essay I did for Noisey and I didn’t really stop.”

Since then, she has produced a wide

plethora of work aimed at addressing misrepresentation of Caribbean products in the media.

One of her latest pieces positions the “globalization” of Caribbean carnivals into perspective by highlighting the history of carnival in the Caribbean and the issue surrounding cultural products appropriated for public consumption by western countries and artists.

Another one of her major projects currently under construction is Bashy Magazine, an independent publication “for and by Jamaica and its diaspora”. Taylor expressed that the idea for Bashy Magazine was cultivated on the need to create a space for Jamaicans within the diaspora and at home to see their identity and culture represented in a manner that benefits and uplifts them.

“I wanted there to be a place for people like myself who felt similarly about not having one central place to talk about Jamaica and Jamaican cultural products and give it the same dignity and attention to detail and aesthetic practices as my favorite publications were able to do,” she said.

“I want to be able to do all the wonderful things that I see others do for their publications for Bashy and even for Jamaica. When I use to read popular articles I didn’t see anyone talk about Spice or Lady Saw maybe a one-two Sister Nancy mentions but I can confidently say now that like if I were in high school now reading blogs, I would see myself represented and I just want to be apart of that in print.”

Taylor also added that as an AfroJamaican writer based in Toronto specializing in a Jamaican focused beat, there are a number of obstacles existent in a media landscape that lacks much-needed diversity. Due to this, she often finds that in an effort to expand the necessary conversation around Jamaican products in mainstream media, her geography plays a huge part in informing her decision making and how

she chooses to present certain topics.

“I have to figure out ways to make my blackness universal when I pitch to outlets in the states, so what that looks like in my writing is situating Jamaica in a global context always so I don’t really get to localize things I would want to,” she said.

Her hope is that with a publication like Bashy, there will be a space for Jamaicans to express themselves in a space specifically designed for them without having to alter their narratives for a more mainstream consumption.

As a long-term goal, Taylor expressed that she has her heights set on forming a discussion around dancehall in academia. She added that there is a unique and deep history embedded in the roots of dancehall that is often ignored by outsiders

relegating dancehall to becoming “demonized” and misunderstood. Taylor says that she hopes to be apart of the shift that aims to situate dancehall music and its culture in a similar space as other top genres.

Written by Kabrena Robinson Toronto Caribbean News

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Wednesday, October 18, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

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JN Foundation Launches Disaster Relief Fund for the JN Foundation, said the devastation to several Caribbean islands caused by the hurricanes is heart-wrenching.

“This is a sad and difficult time for many persons across the Caribbean Region, and we stand in solidarity with everyone affectalyssa@carib101.com ed by these disasters. There are many needs that now exist, thereTC Reporter fore, we’ve chosen to respond by raising funds to assist with the With all of the recent devastation that has swept through the Caribbean, response and recovery efforts,” she businesses are rallying together to aid said.

Mrs. Barrett–Scott said that in relief efforts to the islands.

The JN Foundation has launched a the generosity of donors will help campaign to raise funds that will as- to meet some of the hurricane-relatsist Caribbean islands which were ed needs, and support the recovery devastated by the recent Hurricanes plans in the affected countries in the Irma and Maria. The campaign, region. The target goal for the Relief called “Help Our Caribbean Neigh- Fund is to raise US$10,000.

“I urge everyone to support bours,” was launched recently so in- dividuals would be able to contribute the many families and children in to the rebuilding of our affected Ca- need by giving to this Disaster Relief campaign; and please donate whatribbean communities.

Onyka Barrett-Scott, part- ever you can. A little can go a very nerships and development manager long way,” she added.

Alyssa Mahadeo

Persons can donate to the fund by visiting the I Support Jamaica platform at www.isupportjamaica. com and clicking on the donate button; by using JN Live at www. jnbank.com.

Several islands were affected by the major hurricanes Irma and Maria, which swirled across the northern Caribbean leaving a trail of physical and human disaster behind.

The countries affected include: Barbuda where more than 1,000 residents had to abandon the island, as it was deemed uninhabitable; Dominica, which had 27 deaths and the majority of its infrastructure destroyed; the US Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands where most people are still without power; St Maarten, which had a third of its buildings destroyed; as well as Puerto Rico and Cuba.

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Wednesday, October 18, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

A Brand Of African Inspired Print Skirts For All Women And Girls Kabrena Robinson

kabrena@carib101.com

TC Reporter In a society where Eurocentric fashion styles and brands have predominated the mainstream, one fashion designer has taken on the task of adding her unique touch of Afrocentrism to the mix with her line of handcrafted skirts.

Dawn James-Okonkwo is the owner of Imhotep International Abstract Print Skirts, an independent clothing line where she designs a line of “ultra-luxury” vibrant print skirts for women and girls using bold coloured western fabrics and African print designs from her studio at home.

James who currently operates out of the United Kingdom draws much inspiration for her designs from her Nigerian background where she hails from the Igbo tribe in the town of Igbo-Ukwu.

Her designs are inspired primarily by the ancient ninth-century Igbo-Ukwu art culture of Nigeria and also ancient Egyptian culture.

“The main inspiration behind starting an Afrocentric skirt line was to design clothing for women that are unique and different,” she said. “I was inspired by the bold colours of African art and I wanted to be different and use bolder colours, for my designs. I just wanted to design clothing that was different than what was in the high street shops.”

The town of Igbo-Ukwu where James is from is notable for three archaeological sites, where excavations have found bronze artefacts from a highly sophisticated bronze metal-working culture dating back to as early as the tenth century, centuries before other known bronzes of the region. Five of these bronze artefacts from the original excavation are now in the British museum’s collection where she visits regularly to develop ideas for her sketches.

With this vast cultural influence, James draws, prints, and sews every one of her pieces on her own.

She manages to incorporate African print fabric, with silk, cotton and

wool fabrics and also designs her own textile print fabrics to craft a wide variety of skirts from long skirts to pencil skirts, A-line mini skirts, evening and wedding skirts. She hopes to expand her clothing line to other items such as jewellery, cushions, bedding, curtains, bags and menswear all inspired by African Art.

James is also aiming towards broadening her brand on an international level to make her pieces accessible for all women. However, with her clothing line being an independent project operated solely by her from home, her first stepping stone is acquiring the necessary capital needed to produce her designs. In doing this, she has set up a campaign online to raise funds for her business.

“With the £25,000 raised from this campaign, I will be able to purchase better machinery, employ assistants, create a website, and most of all, reach a wider audience,” she explains.

“Clothing is powerful. A great outfit can improve mood, build confidence, and most of all, express individuality. It was my desire to help women everywhere look and feel their best and that’s what led me to create Imhotep International.”

James adds that she hopes to extend her brand beyond the United Kingdom to other countries across Europe and even Africa where most of her inspiration lies. She also hopes to develop a prominent market in the Canada and U.S.

James says that she has received requests from women across various countries inquiring about an official website to access her products and also for orders. However, she finds that with her shortage of resources she is unable to meet the demand which is why she has taken to online platforms to raise funds.

“It was my ultimate goal to provide women anywhere in the world with great skirts that fit them perfectly, allow them to express their individuality, and make a statement, whether for work, holidays, or a night on the town,” she expressed.

“If I can hit my goal I will be able to produce the skirts in affordable quantities and purchase the fabrics and materials required for production and assembly.”

You can support Imhotep International Abstract Print Skirt by donating to their fundraising campaign online at Indiegogo.

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Wednesday, October 18, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

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From Toronto to Dominica with Love Leanne Benn

leanne@carib101.com

TC Reporter Alone we can do so little and together we can do so much. Those are the words of the local Kaisoca ladies cricket club of Toronto as they appeal to residents in the Toronto area to help donate as much as they can to the hurricane-ravished islands. Earlier this summer there was an influx of destructive hurricanes that affected many Caribbean islands, bringing some to complete rubble.

Dominica is one such island that has been affected by Hurricane Maria.

Dominica was hit by a full category-5 storm, which left the island essentially cut off and flattened. Many residents are left with poor communication, no running water, power outages and lack of general supplies. The residents are in complete distress as they start the process of rebuilding their lives, after losing

almost everything.

There has been a recorded 27 fatalities on the island since the hurricane. As many organizations started to send relief, the founder of the Kaisoca Ladies Cricket Club, George Maharaj has decided to organize a special clothing and food drive for Dominica, with special permission granted by the Dominican Association of Ontario. There are currently three Dominican players on the team, as well as ladies from other Caribbean countries including Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, St Vincent, and Barbados.

Some of the items urgently needed include canned foods, baby cereals, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soaps, blankets, clothing and building supplies such as hammers and saws. The name of the drive is entitled From Toronto to Dominica with Love and is a joint effort with the Roots of Calypso. Other items needed include diapers, children’s medicine, first aid kits, toilet paper, mops, buckets, cleaning supplies, pillows, flashlights, batteries, bicycles, adhesive tape and much more.

Donations are vital from even the smallest of contributions because it all makes a change in adding to the over-

all factor of rebuilding the island. Right now residents are trying to establish their basic needs so they have access to clean water and proper meals. Dominica has been hit with a complete reset and almost everything will have to be rebuilt and not to mention the clean up of debris that has been left behind.

Hurricane Maria hit the island with winds of up to 175mph and was the first major storm recorded in the history of the island.

Kaisoca CC was founded in 2010 and has been actively trying to promote women’s cricket in the Toronto area and around Canada. Players are not limited to the Caribbean and also include members from Pakistan, Australia, India and South Africa. All members are currently trying to reach out to as many supporters as they can to come together and help the island of Dominica.

The drop off event will take place on Sunday, October 29th from 11 AM-5 PM. It will be held at 2020 Don Mills Road (South of Sheppard) For more information on your donation contact the founder of Kaisoca — George Maharaj on 905-621-6157. Remember together we can do so much.

A-Supreme Foundation Holds 3rd Annual Grand Charity Gala Jelani Grant

jelani@carib101.com

TC Reporter Continued From Page 1 -- Towards the end of the night, the Diamond Citizen Awards were presented to community supporters Trust 15 Founder Marcia Brown, Falstaff Community Centre Supervisor Patrick Shaw, Liberty for Youth Founder Frederick Dryden, Local 27 President Mike Yorke, and Jamaica National Building Society Assistant General Manager Leon Mitchell. The awards recipients are all community leaders or organizations that are doing their part to strengthen the communities they represent. Keynote speaker for the night was Member of Parliament for East Rural St. Andrew and First Lady of Jamaica, Juliet Holness.

The inaugural Don Levy lectured on the role of the Diaspora in National Development had Holness as one of their panel members the night before at York University. During the lecture and her speech at the Gala, Holness encouraged Jamaican Canadians to invest into their homeland.

“Take a deeper interest in all things Jamaican, continue to make us proud, facilitate opportunities for education, exposure, and growth… so that Jamaica may, under God, increase in beauty fellowship and prosperity,” she said.

Before the gala ended, a gate prize and raffle gifts were given out. The night concluded with a dance party, with Soul to Soul owner Grandmaster Rosa as DJ.

A-Supreme Nursing and Home Care Services and the A-Supreme Foundation were founded by three Jamaican women, Vivienne Dickson, Vivienne Duet and Winsome Johnson after their migration to Canada. They support the lower-income seniors within the Greater Toronto area by improving their quality of life through education, advocacy, and resources.

High Commissioner Janice Miller commended the organization saying, “the character of a society is defined by how it treats those with the most wisdom and experience in its midst. The

work undertaken…is a visible demonstration of the level of care and commitment extended to seniors.”

The foundation is known as one of the few organizations to provide seniors access to subsidized in-home care. They provide significant employment and in-house training to various healthcare professionals. They continue to grow with the goal of becoming a global leader in advocating for seniors to live a dignified and comfortable life. A-Supreme Foundation programs receive funding from private and corporate donations, fundraising activities such as the gala, and government grant funding.

There are more than 150,000 seniors in the GTA, and 15% of Toronto’s population identify as seniors. These numbers are expected to double in the next twenty-five years. According to Statistics Canada’s 2011 census, Toronto’s senior population grew from 13.4% to 14.4% between 1996 and 2011. Currently, the GTA has a 16.4% vacancy rate for total spaces for seniors, meaning the total number of new units slightly outdid the growth of the number of seniors looking to live in retirement homes.

PAGE 7

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local news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 18, 2017

SmartTerm Essay Competition for Caribbean Schools Leanne Benn

leanne@carib101.com

TC Reporter When it comes to the education systems in many Caribbean islands, there is one factor that may be common in most public schools. The lack of technology in the classroom. SmartTerm is a school and learning management platform aimed at improving and reinventing the role of technology in the classroom. Students should be able to feel comfortable when dealing with computers on a standard basis and ways in which to properly use and access the Internet. SmartTerm has spent a bit over four years, researching and analyzing this problem in the education system that plagues many different Caribbean countries.

The importance of having good and up to date learning facilities enables the students to advance in ways to almost match their North American peers. The concept is a smart school plus smart kids equal a smart term. It is a time-saving connection system similar to schools in North America. Administration, teachers, and kids can all connect online.

For instance, a teacher can upload an assignment online that the students can access remotely and begin working. To actually make an impact in Caribbean markets, SmartTerm decided to target various schools this year in the Caribbean for the back to school season and they launched an essay competition for students. The feedback was tremendous as five different countries, had students actively participating.

“The Smarter Caribbean Essay Competition,” was open to all Caribbean students aged 8-19 years. The theme this year was “The Importance of Technology in Schools.” This would provide a clear insight into the way students view technology in their lives as well as how they dealt with the lack of proper education technology in Caribbean schools.

Shamir Saddler is the CEO of the New

York-based headquarters of SmartTerm and said in an official press release, “We wanted to get students thinking about how technology could help them become educated,” and while doing so, we wanted the winners to have technology at their fingertips. Giving back is part of our mission and so we will continue to do so.”

The five countries to participate were Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, St Lucia and Grenada.

There were three main age categories for the essays, 8-11, 12-16 and 17-19. Each section had a winner and was rewarded with smart tablets and money vouchers. The amount of prizes distributed totaled over USD $10,000.

The winners were Imani Chin of St Andrew High- School for Girl — Jamaica, (8-11) Brannakay Hardie of Jonathan Grant High School — Jamaica (12-16) and Hope Joseph of Queens College— Barbados (17-19). The section runnerups also received money vouchers and each school is entitled to a free pilot of the SmartTerm School management and learning system. The best part of the essay competition is the engagement was seen not just from the students, but it was a collaborative effort by teachers and principals as well.

“The response was outstanding.

Not only were students actively participating by writing essays, but teachers and principals were engaged too. We’ve had parents and teachers inquire about technology use inside and outside the classroom. Education technology is a conversation that needs to happen in the Caribbean and we at SmartTerm are happy to spearhead it.” Sais Stuart Crooks, the COO of SmartTerm.

This essay competition is just one example of how SmartTerm hopes to engage Caribbean students and school in their technology platform. Some of the features that the winning schools now have access to include E-learning and mobile learning, where teachers can share assignments, create discussion boards among other features. They will also have access to account management for attendance, grades and other notifications and they also have access to a comprehensive report of the analytics of the school.

PAGE 10

island news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Brother of Chutney Singer Fatally Chopped

TRINIDAD -- Basdeo Maharaj, the older brother of this year’s Chutney Soca Monarch Omardath Maharaj, was found hacked to death at his Las Lomas home.

The 62-year-old father of four was found by a teenage relative with multiple chop wounds at his home at Las Lomas #2. Police said the discovery was made around 11 pm on Sunday night.

Relatives of the deceased, when approached at the Forensic Science, St James

HURRICANE IRMA ISLAND RELIEF FUND In light of the recent devastation that has swept through the Caribbean due to Hurricane Irma, the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper would like to aid in the hurricane relief effort to help the families that have been affected by this storm.

Hurricane IRMA, the most powerful hurricane ever recorded, has left a path of devastation in the Caribbean and continues to threaten many more of the islands in the south. The storm hit the Caribbean last week with the full force of its Category 5 winds. The full force of IRMA was felt by islands like Saint Martin, Antigua and Barbuda St. Thomas, and St. John in the US Virgin Islands, Turks and Caicos and Cuba.

Relief and recovery is needed on all of these islands, as many of them have been flattened to the point where they are no longer fit to live.

The people of the islands have lost their families, and their homes, and they are in need of immediate assistance.

Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who has been affected by this massive storm and to those who are in her path. At this time we are concentrating all efforts in raising funds to assist with the basic needs of families The damage has been monumental amongst the islands and 90% of the infrastructure has been reported destroyed. There is another storm developing in the wake of IRMA and the people are vulnerable. There are no electricity or water services and no radio. In association the island consulates here in Toronto, our fundraising will be directed to where it is needed most.

As the official fundraising campaign we are in close touch with the government to assess their needs. We ask for your help and generosity now and as we continue to support the various islands through their reconstruction.

This Fundraising effort will provide relief to survivors in the form of emergency supplies like food, water, clothing and medical supplies and will help immensely with the rebuilding process. All donations to this fund will exclusively support relief and recovery efforts.

Our goal is to help the islands in any way that we can during this time of need and as a community we need to do this now more than ever.

Please like, love and share

TO DONATE GoFundMe.com/Carib101

Monday, said they were too distraught to speak. The younger Maharaj, who is on tour in the US, said he will be getting a flight back home as soon as possible.

Police believed the killing may be linked to a housebreaking that went awry, resulting in the culprit chopping the elderly man.

In an unrelated killing, police said a 19-year-old, who was recently granted bail, was gunned down in Petit Valley.

According to police reports, around

5.30 pm Nkosi “Brown Boy” Pierre, “a known gun and drug offender” was at Sparrow Drive, Simeon Road, Petit Valley, when he was found dead after residents recalled hearing gunshots.

Police said Pierre was “well known to them” and believe his death may be linked to his connections to his criminal past. Police could not say Monday what offence/s Pierre was alleged to have committed that allowed him to be granted bail recently.

- Trinidad Guardian

Bank Manager, Husband on Fraud Charges

TRINIDAD -- A bank manager and her husband have appeared in court charged with conspiring to defraud the Arima Borough Corporation of $412,490.

Melissa Gopaul, 40, and her 42-yearold husband Perry Pollard, both of Roystonia, Couva, were not called upon to plead to the charge when they appeared before Senior Magistrate Nanette Forde-John in the Port-of-Spain court Monday morning.

The couple, the owners of Esperanza

Construction Company Ltd, is accused of defrauding the corporation by attempting to deposit a fraudulent cheque which was drawn on the corporation’s account from the Central Bank.

Gopaul allegedly deposited the cheque at the RBC branch in Chaguanas where she worked earlier this month. Her colleagues contacted detectives of the Fraud Squad after they realised that the cheque was fraudulent.

The couple was granted bail by a Jus-

tice of the Peace after being charged over the weekend and were in court early for their first court appearance Monday.

The amount of bail they were granted was not revealed in court as their bail bonds were merely certified by Forde-John during the hearing.

Forde-John transferred the case to the Chaguanas Magistrates’ Court where the couple will reappear on Friday morning.

- Trinidad Guardian

Authorities Probe Chaguaramas Oil Spill

TRINIDAD -- Concern has been expressed that action has not been taken quickly enough to contain an oil spill which has been spreading across Trinidad’s north-western coast since early Monday.

“If this was in the water since morning, you mean to say they have not put out information by now warning people about it?”asked one beach goer as he looked at the thick black oily substance coating the water.

Up to late Monday, there was no confirmation of whether the substance was actually oil, or information on where it originated from. The Environmental Management Authority (EMA) advised in a media release that the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Management (ODPM), Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA), Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries (MEEI) and the Maritime Services Division (MSD) had all been notified.

A team despatched to investigate the spill with the assistance of the Air Guard confirmed that the black oily substance had been seen between Alcoa and Five Islands and was concentrated within Williams Bay and along the Boardwalk in Chaguaramas. Streaks of the oily sheen were reported near Harts Cut and

the Five Islands, but nothing was observed further west of the Five Islands.

While investigations are continuing to identify the potential source of the oily substance, the EMA appealed for people with information to come forward.

The Maritime Services Division has advised all marine craft to be aware of the oily substance in the water and to report the extent of the spill and any information about who might be responsible. The public can provide information by calling 680-9588 or email via complaints@ema.co.tt.

Kamal Seepaul, of Trinclean, who visited Harts Cut Bay to view the damage, expressed shock as he surveyed the oil which had washed ashore. He said his company was willing to assist in the clean up.

Officials later confirmed that Kaizen Environmental Services had been appointed by the Energy Ministry to do an assessment today. They said in the absence of anyone coming forward to accept responsibility, tests will be done to determine the type and quality of the oil with a view to identify the supplier and locate the vessel transporting the substance.

Secretary of Fishermen and Friends of the Sea (FFOS) Gary Aboud said he got a call around 1.15 am Monday about a massive oil spill in the Gulf of Paria and visited the area at around 6 am.

“Thick black oil spreading along the southern side of the entire north-western peninsula of Trinidad in the vicinity of Five Islands, Carrera Island, Constrat Island and Gaspree Island,” he said in a video sent to local media.

“The area covered in oil appears to be much larger than the city of Port of Spain.”

Aboud warned that the damage would be greater as rising tides would thin the the oily substance and spread it over a wider area. He called on Parliament to pass legislation that will command a full emergency investigative authority to inspect every single vessel, tanker, pipeline, oil terminal refinery, or tank farm suspected.

“Every year the Chaguaramas area suffers from massive oil spills and no one has ever been prosecuted or fined,” he said.

- Trinidad Guardian

Businessman Not Yet Told of PNM Suspension

TRINIDAD -- The People’s National Movement (PNM) has not yet officially told Harry Ragoonanan he has been suspended from the party and he has also not yet been contacted by the police about an investigation. However, the well-known businessman and long-time PNM supporter says he has sought legal advice based on media reports that he was suspended for alleged criminal misconduct.

The PNM’s general council on Saturday voted unanimously in favour of a motion brought by Sigler Jack, of Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley’s Diego Martin West constituency, for Ragoonanan’s suspension pending investigation of an audio recording related to alleged manipulation of bids for the supply of Public Transportation Service Corporation (PTSC) buses.

Minister in the Ministry of the Attorney General Stuart Young, the party’s PRO, said the decision was in keeping with the position adopted by Rowley that no one involved in corrupt activities will find solace in the PNM.

Young said it was the party’s understanding that “a police investigation” had been “launched following certain allegations.”

However, police officials Monday could not confirm or deny whether an investigation was under way. Ragoonanan’s suspension is being described as unprecedented by PNM stalwart Ferdie Ferreira.

“As far as I know, given my knowledge and experience in the PNM, I don’t know of any member in the long history of the party suspended on the basis of allegations of criminal conduct,” he told the T&T Guardian.

Ferreira recalled that when PNM chairman Franklin Khan and former energy minister Eric Williams were charged and before the courts, neither was suspended from the party, nor were Johnny O’Halloran and Francis Prevatt, who also faced allegations of criminal conduct.

Ferreira and Karl Hudson-Phillips were suspended from the party in April 1980 after the general council found that certain actions they had taken were “inimical to the interest of the party.” Both men were expelled from the party after Hudson-Phillips announced the formation of the Organisation for National Reconstruction (ONR).

In Ragoonanan’s case, a transcript was read of what was purported to be a con-

versation he had. However, he was not given an opportunity to say anything, Ferreira said.

“The matter should have been referred to the investigations committee, which would do an investigation and then present a report to the general council and on the basis of that you proceed to determine whether to suspend or not,” he said

Political commentator Ralph Maraj, a former member of the PNM, added: “It is possible that Mr. Ragoonanan is guilty of some kind of misdemeanour but that is not yet known. Therefore, I think natural justice requires that he at least be given a hearing before suspension. It is possible that he is not guilty as well, but he should have at least been given a hearing before taking the extreme action of suspending him and then the very public way it was done suggests the possibility that they intended to humiliate him.”

Maraj said this gave credence to Ragoonanan’s allegation of a revenge attack for his exposure of “possible shenanigans in the hiring of the Cabo Star and the Ocean Flower 2 from Bridgemans Services Group.”

- Trinidad Guardian

Wednesday, October 18, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Cartel Behaviour

TRINIDAD -- Former housing minister Dr Roodal Moonilal, former Estate Management and Business Development Company Ltd (EMBD) CEO Gary Parmassar and five contractors will be facing civil action as Government moves to recover some $203 million which was allegedly obtained through white-collar crime.

Documents in connection with the matter have already been forwarded to the police, Minister in the Ministry of Attorney General and Legal Affairs Stuart Young said Sunday.

At a press conference at the Office of the Attorney General, Young identified the companies as TN Ramnauth and Company Ltd (TN Ramnauth), Mootilal Ramhit and Sons Contracting Ltd (Ramhit), Namalco Construction Services Ltd (Namalco), Fides Ltd (Fides) and Kall Company Ltd (Kallco), which was recently awarded the Churchill Roosevelt Highway extension to Manzanilla.

Young said the AG’s office has been working with a team of international and local professionals in the fields of forensic accounting and auditing for the past 20 months on the case.

He said it involved the award of 10 contracts in August 2015 to a “hand-picked” five contractors for the upgrade and rehabilitation of certain Caroni roads.

Young said Namalco, TN Ramnauth, Kallco and Ramhit had started legal action against EMBD for recovery of monies allegedly owed to them for the work done. He said Namalco sued the EMBD on May 6, 2016 for over $1 billion while TN Ramnauth, Kallco and Ramhit filed their claims between April and May this year. He said the State is now counter-suing the firms, alleging the work claimed for was either shoddy or non-existent. In giving an example of some of the alleged activity, Young said the winning price to paint a metre of road was awarded at between $32 to $42.

“The losing bids, however, were from between $440 to $800 for the same metre of road,” Young said.

Young said as a result of the work forensic work conducted, evidence had been unearthed which supports a conclusion of “bidrigging and cartel behaviour amongst these five contractors, supported and or encouraged and or permitted by persons in public office, including the former Minister of Housing Dr Roodal Moonilal, who at all material times was the line Minister for EMBD,” Young said.

He said Parmassar and former EMBD

divisional manager Madho Balroop were also allegedly “implicated in this elaborate scheme,” which was “executed” in August 2015 and led to over $200 million being disbursed to these “hand-picked” five contractors between July 2015 and the general elections of September 2015.

Young also alleged forensic work uncovered text/SMS and other messages being sent and received by Parmassar to cellular numbers registered to Moonilal, Taradauth Ramnauth, one of the principals of Kallco, and one of the principals of Namalco, Naeem Ali. This communication, he said, allegedly provided “evidence of cartel behaviour, bribery, collusion, knowing receipt and dishonest assistance and unlawful means conspiracy.”

“These text messages include messages from the phone number registered to Dr Moonilal instructing Mr Gary Parmassar to prepare cheques for tens of millions of dollars to these contractors and to bring the cheques to him, as the former minister, once prepared.

“They also show Mr Taradauth Ramnauth organising a HDC house for Mr Gary Parmassar, telling him who to award contacts from EMBD to and how much to pay these identified contractors,” Young claimed.

He said as a result of work carried out, EMBD, with the support of the AG’s Office, filed defences and counter-claims against TN Ramnauth and Kallco last Thursday.

In an immediate response Sunday, Namalco attorney Om Lalla said Young’s claims were nothing short of political mischief.

He denied Young’s claim that Namalco had sued EMBD for over $1 billion in May last year and the case was stayed in the High Court Sunday.

Rather, he said an application was made to stay two of the six contracts, which represents 10 per cent of the total claim, and the company plans to proceed with the other four.

Saying the company was yet to be served with legal documents, Lalla said, “We can successfully argue the cartel claim as well as any conspiracy theory. This is nothing short of a delay for work legitimately done and to create a political issue.”

He added: “It is interesting to note that they have raised all the criminal elements in a civil matter.”

- Trinidad Guardian

Something Not Right

TRINIDAD -- Former Public Transportation Services Corporation (PTSC) board chairman Terrence Beepath says he is the only person who can bring clarity in the case in which south businessman Harry Ragoonanan has been suspended from the People’s National Movement.

Beepath says it is “very strange” neither a police investigator nor any PNM official has approached him on the issue surrounding the allegations of bid-rigging for PTSC buses, especially since his name “pops up” throughout the alleged transcript conversation between Ragoonanan and a Chinese businessman which reportedly led to the suspension.

Ragoonanan’s suspension was announced on Saturday. It is alleged he attempted to manipulate a tendering process at PTSC last year.

Sunday, Beepath said a lot of the claims and incidents surrounding the case occurred during his PTSC tenure, some involving him, so he was expecting a call long ago.

“I think I would be the first guy to be called in. I am really wondering as to what is really going on. What I found odd too is that Harry was suspended before the investigation (if there is really one) has concluded. I found things a bit suspect,” Beepath said.

Asked what the relationship between himself and Ragoonanan was and if they were related in any way, Beepath replied: “No. Harry has been in the PNM for long. I am much younger than he is and when I joined the PNM, Harry was there.”

Asked about the tender of 35 buses in question at the cost of $35 million, Beepath said

when he joined the PTSC in June 2016 the process was already under way. He, however, admitted they (the Board) had raised a couple questions about it.

“We were told that they needed to spend the money by September, otherwise they would have lost the money, so we allowed everything to continue in the way it was. In order for the monies not to be lost, we allowed the process to go on,” Beepath said.

He noted that as the then chairman he stood clear of all tendering processes as there is a tenders committee for that.

“All that was done was a report was presented to the board and we looked at it to see if it was done properly. We never saw bids or prices,” Beepath said.

He said one tender was scrapped because of an error on the part of the bus company and said a report on that is currently before a Government minister.

Asked what role he thought Ragoonanan would have played, Beepath said he was not sure, as he knew back then that Ragoonanan represented Mercedes Benz and found it confusing as to why he would have been allegedly talking to his (Ragoonanan’s) competition, the Chinese.

“I have nothing to hide and I am the one to add clarity to this and I am willing to tell the truth. This has a lot more to do with something bigger. I think the way in which it was done is not the way the PNM operates, because something like this would have been called in and done privately, not in public like this,” Beepath said.

- Trinidad Guardian

island news

PAGE 11

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island news

GUYANA -- A 32-year-old Cane Grove, Mahaica man succumbed to chop wounds he sustained at midday on Sunday during a confrontation with a man described as “the village bully”.

Dead is Harrinarine Ramnawaj called “Khrishna” and “Pusha”. The man’s father, Chandrapaul Ramnawaj, 59, was also injured during the confrontation.

According to Ramnawaj’s brother, Ronald Baldeo, his sibling and nephew went to their farm at an area called “Long Dam” around 11:45hrs on Sunday when they observed a man stealing their plan-

GUYANA -- Stallholders selling on Bourda Green are expecting a big showdown with City Market authorities for failure to respond to a notice, purported to have come from the Clerk of Markets (ag), but which they contend, has no legal basis.

The notice bears no signature, was not written on a letterhead, nor does it have an official stamp.The strongly worded notice, dated September 26, gives the holders of stalls on the Bourda Green a 14-day ultimatum to remove all makeshift overhead shelters connecting stalls, and/or extensions to stalls and passageways, failing which “necessary action” will be taken against them.The notice states that the removal of the coverings is “to facilitate the installation of additional security lights within this section of the market.” Unless these are removed, the notice claims, new

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Cane Grove Man Killed by ‘Village Bully’ tains.

He said that this occurred even after the duo made a report to the Cane Grove Police Station of their suspicions earlier on Sunday.

Baldeo related that his brother and nephew confronted the man, who is well known in the village as a troublemaker, and he told them that they cannot do him anything.

He said the assailant then attacked the father and son and in the process, they both sustained chop wounds about their hands. He said his nephew was

left lying on the ground as public-spirited citizens[MY1] rushed to the scene.

Baldeo noted that as the two injured men were being taken out of the area to seek medical attention, Harrinarine passed away. “He vein on he hand get cut so he bleed to death,” the worried man stated.

He said his brother, Chandrapaul, lost two fingers in the confrontation. The assailant has been arrested and reports are that he had wounded several persons before who confronted him as he stole their items.

Showdown Looms at Bourda Green

security lights could not be properly installed. But the stallholders are saying they would not fall for that talk because, Council is advancing a lot of measures when they know that they are cash-strapped.

The vendors say that for years they have been exposed to the elements and their customers would be drenched whenever it rains, since they had no place to shelter. And as for security lights, they had begged the Council ad nauseam to install lights on the Green, since break-ins and stealing had become rampant. After realising that their cries had fallen on deaf ears, the vendors ran their own lights and set up makeshift coverings to protect them from heavy rainfall and conversely – the hot sun.

Additionally, they explained, these coverings offer shelter for customers

, as well as the vendors themselves, since they are not behind counters.Meanwhile, executives and members of the Guyana Market Vendors Union are up in arms against what they call atrocities and high handedness taking place on the Bourda Green, resulting in added and unjustifiable financial burdens being placed on them by the office of the clerk of markets.They are therefore calling for an audience with the clerk of markets and/or other authorised agents of the municipality to address (iron out) these concerns, which they hope will redound to the good of all persons concerned.

Meanwhile, the union, headed by President Eon Andrews is incensed, arguing that the Council cannot arbitrarily take a decision to order the dismantling of vendors’ property without first having a meet-

“He chop up this ex-police man couple month back fa he own cow,” Baldeo said.

When this newspaper visited the family of the deceased on Sunday afternoon, the injured Chandrapaul could not contain himself as he called his son’s name.

The man sat in a hammock with his hand in a bandage as relatives comforted the family on their loss. Police are investigating the incident.

- Guyana Chronicle

ing with them, discussing the implications and moreso giving them adequate time to make such changes.

“What is needed here is dialogue.

Already we are not making money, so where are we going to get money to pay for such works?” they ask. They want to know just who will stand the cost of installing the security lights in the market place, since the Council is known to be perpetually without money. “So if we take down our lights, we can very well end up waiting for another year before the first light is put up by Council. By then, and in fact within the first few days, our stalls can be ‘swept clean.’ Tell us who will bear the liability then!” they demanded.

- Guyana Chronicle

Cummings Street Vagrants Shift Across the Road

GUYANA -- Vagrants and homeless people, many of whom lived on the corner of Cummings and Regent Streets, Georgetown, had some of their comfort removed when the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) decided to take down a shed under which they slept at nights.

The shed was part of a building that housed a business at the said corner, the owner of which had complained about the presence of these individuals.

When officers from the M&CC visited the location on Friday, taxi drivers outside of the business reported how more than 15 persons lived here, including an entire family.

“There is the mother, father, children, grandchildren, and even their dog,”

GUYANA -- President David Granger said as Guyana strives for national unity and social cohesion, there are many important lessons to be learnt from Diwali, an important national Hindu festival, which symbolises love and togetherness.

“I do believe that there are lots of lessons that all Guyanese can learn from the festival of lights. Guyana is blessed to be a country of many religions, Guyana is blessed to be a multi-cultural country… there is so much we can learn from each other,” the head-of-state said.

He made these remarks Sunday evening at the Indian Monument Gardens where he and First Lady, Sandra Granger

one driver said.

After being removed, the vagrants wasted no time in taking up dwelling across the road where there is an empty lot.

M&CC Public Relations Officer Debra Lewis observed that the problem also exists around the various municipal markets.

She is calling for an inter-agency approach to help curb the problem. “We need the Ministry of Public Health, Social Protection, M&CC, NGOs (non-governmental organisations), churches, mosques and temples. We must adopt an approach that is holistic.”

Lewis said many of these individuals have homes and shelters to which they can go and with the right help and treat-

ment, they can return to being normal citizens.

“We need to involve the relatives.

There are some family members who have totally neglected their responsibilities,” she observed.

Constabulary Superintendent Laurel Gittens offered that even though these individuals have chosen their path of life, they are human beings.

“Certain areas like the avenues are public spaces and we can’t really stop them from going there, because if they choose to dwell in the streets and they see benches and open spaces where they can relax, we can’t stop them.”

She, too, is suggesting that the Ministry of Public Health come forward to

President David Granger Lights Symbolic Diya joined with members of the Indian Commemoration Trust (ICT) for the symbolic Diya (lamp) Lighting Ceremony and Cultural Show.

The President said Diwali has been observed in Guyana for 179 years, but it became a national holiday about 50 years ago owing to its significance, not only to the Hindu community, but to the country as a whole.

“It symbolises the victory of good over evil, it symbolises the victory of light over darkness, it symbolises the victory of hope over despair and I would like to feel that it symbolises the victory of knowledge over ignorance and of prosperity over pov-

erty,” President Granger said.

The President said he is pleased that this festival has become embedded in Guyanese culture, as it is not confined to households and mandirs and informed that this year, State House, the official residence of the Head-of-State, will be illuminated with diyas on the evening of October 18.

Meanwhile, Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Venkatachalam Mahalingam told the story of Diwali and about the different ways it is observed in North and South India. He also expressed his satisfaction with the fact that Diwali is celebrated with so much fanfare in Guyana and urged Guyanese to use this occasion to recreate

offer some assistance. “The municipality would have to work in collaboration with the Public Health Ministry so we can find a solution.”

Gittens recalled that in the past when efforts were made to remove them from the streets, it often resulted in some of them committing suicide or finding their way back to the streets.

“So having grown accustomed to the open environment, having them enclosed has posed a problem to their health.

Some of them died of natural causes after being enclosed; for some reason, they take sick and die.”

- Guyana Chronicle

the spirit of togetherness.

Diwali is linked to the worship of Mother Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is also celebrated in honour of the end of a 14-year exile of Lord Rama after he defeated a vicious demon, hence, the spiritual significance of good over evil and light over darkness.

The ICT event also featured a packed cultural show of music and dance by talented local Guyanese artistes. There were also several booths with Indian craft, jewellery and food on sale. (Ministry of the Presidency).

- Guyana Chronicle

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island news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Kingston Mayor Targets Delinquent Promoters

JAMAICA -- The Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation might have to implement a promoter’s registry for the country’s capital city soon, to ensure they comply with fees.

Mayor of Kingston Senator Delroy Williams, in a press release Monday, stated that the city is losing close to $2 million in amusement fees monthly.

“We cannot have some persons complying and others evading and getting away with it. This may mean we have to revisit regulations and possibly create a registry of promoters as well as work closer with the Jamaica Constabulary Force,” he explained.

He said several promoters are hosting events without the proper permits and others are being crafty by evading the payment of fees.

“It is a long-standing issue and we are

moving to correct it. In annual licences issued to public spaces used for entertainment, we have seen a decrease of half a million dollars in revenue over the last three years. There are more businesses but we are collecting less revenue — something is clearly wrong,” the mayor said, adding that losses are also incurred from events and companies which are continuously under-paying for advertising and permits.

Williams said, too, that the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) will be engaging offenders through dialogue initially, but will take the necessary steps provided by the law, if necessary, and impose sanctions.

“There is a lot of work to do across the city and this needs revenue. Currently, the municipal police force, markets, roadways and drains all need revenue and our hands are being

tied,” he said. “There are increasing demands on the KSAMC with respect to safety and security; maintenance of order; and infrastructural improvement. The residents of Kingston and St Andrew are demanding more from the KSAMC in terms of service delivery.”

Williams added: “All of this means we have to be efficient in the collection and use of the revenues. For the municipality to attain its vision and Kingston to take its place among international cities, we must collect revenues and bring order. Projects like the Ward Theatre, Coronation Market, Cross Roads square, St William Grant Park, Half-Way-Tree, and others demand that we take the necessary steps to collect the revenues.”

- Jamaica Observer

Garvey Researcher Says ‘Butch’ Stewart’s Ancestors Influenced National Hero

JAMAICA -- As the nation celebrates its heroes today, researcher Joy Douglas says she has unearthed information showing that both the greatgrandfather and the great-great-grandfather of Gordon Butch Stewart had significantly influenced the character and thinking of National Hero Marcus Mosiah Garvey during his childhood.

Douglas, the current chairperson of the National Library Service, notes that Stewart, founder and chairman of Sandals Resorts International, is the son of Jean Patricia Stewart (née) Townend; the grandson of Helen Eliza Townend (née Rerrie) and the great-grandson of Anthony Bayley Dougall Rerrie who was born in St Ann’s Bay April 7, 1864 to Alexander Rerrie, his greatgreat-grandfather.

Douglas is researching the early life of Malcus Mosiah Garvey, who later changed his name to Marcus and went on to become Jamaica’s first national hero, after a drama-filled life in which he inspired millions of African descendants under the banner of the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA).

According to Douglas, young Garvey was a neighbour of the Rerrie family at Winders Hill in St Ann’s Bay. Helen Eliza Townend, Stewart’s grandmother, was born in 1887, the same year as Malcus, and was one of his playmates. Some of Helen’s younger sisters and her younger brother Anthony Alexander Rerrie were also playmates of Garvey.

James Percival Rerrie, great-granduncle of the hotel mogul and brother of Anthony, was born May 15, 1871 in St Ann’s Bay and became a recorded supporter of Marcus Garvey and the UNIA. He would, therefore, have known Garvey as a child and young man (Garvey lived in St Ann’s Bay until 1905, at which time he would have been 18 years old), Douglas suggests.

“My intention is to not only provide a picture of Garvey’s formative years in St Ann’s Bay, but demonstrate that he was nurtured and guided since that time by some of the most prominent individuals and families in the town. It could therefore be said that Garvey’s strong Christian values, including his sense of justice, were fostered by these individuals and families,” Douglas argues.

The researcher says she has found that Alexander Rerrie and Anthony Bayley Dougall Rerrie (Stewart’s great-great-grandfather and great-grandfather) were actively involved in the leadership of the St James Benefit Building Society and the St Ann Benefit Building Society, respectively.

“These movements were founded by leaders of the Christian churches with the primary objective of the development of the peasantry and the industrious poor after emancipation through the promotion of thrift and the acquisition and improvement of freehold property,” says Douglas.

“What is very interesting is that both these societies, along with the Brown’s Town Benefit Building Society in which Anthony also played a role, were merged with the Westmoreland Building Society in 1970 to form the Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS), which went on to not only cover the entire island, but has an international dimension through the membership of working-class Jamaicans, particularly in the United Kingdom.”

The JNBS, chaired by Oliver Clarke, is now JN Bank.

“This further confirms my view that many of the concepts advanced by Marcus Garvey were those he saw practised by [Stewart’s] ancestors, particularly his great-grandfather Anthony Bayley Dougall Rerrie,” says Douglas.

She quotes Garvey as having written: “To me, at home in my early days, there was no difference between white and black. One of my father’s properties, the place where I lived most of the time, was adjoining that of a white man. He had three girls and two boys; the Wesleyan minister, another white man whose church my parents attended, also had property adjoining ours. He had three girls and one boy.

“All of us were playmates. We romped and were happy children playmates together. The little white girl whom I liked most knew no better than I did myself. We were two innocent fools who never dreamed of a race feeling and problem.

As a child, I went to school with white boys and girls, like all other Negroes. We were not called Negroes then. I never heard the term Negro used once until I was about 14…

“White boys and I used to frolic together. We played cricket and baseball, ran races and rode bicycles together, took each other to the river and to the sea beach to learn to swim, and made boyish efforts while out in deep water to drown each other, making a sprint for shore crying out ‘shark, shark, shark...’

Douglas says that the “white man” to whom Garvey referred was Anthony Bayley Dougall Rerrie. In a further reference, he noted: “I was openly hated and persecuted by some of these coloured men of the island who did not want to be classified as Negroes, but as white. They hated me worse than poison. They opposed me at every step, but I had a large number of white friends, who encouraged and helped me…”

In this regard, Douglas concludes, Garvey was also referring to the Rerrie family, namely Anthony’s brother James Percival Rerrie and his son Anthony Alexander Rerrie..

- Jamaica Observer

PM, Opposition Leader Call for Promotion of Jamaica’s Heritage

JAMAICA -- As the country celebrates National Heroes’ Day today, Prime Minister Andrew Holness is urging citizens to make a concerted “national effort” to always promote the country’s proud heritage, especially among the youth.

“The preservation and continuity of our rich and deeply rooted history, heritage and culture spans generations, and our indomitable spirit is a part of the fabric that makes us who we are as a nation. We have a great heritage to promote and a great legacy to protect,” the prime minister said in his Heroes’ Day message.

In relation to the the youth, he said: “They need to know, embrace, and treasure our Jamaican history and culture, and face the challenges of the future with confidence, optimism and hope.”

Citing this years Heroes’ Day theme, ‘A Great Heritage... A Great Legacy’, he also encouraged Jamaicans to internalise, appreciate and bring it to the forefront of their daily existence.

“We cannot afford to treat it lightly, knowing we have had significant global influence on every field including music, culture, sports,

medicine, and of course our contribution to world history through our national heroes.

“Jamaica and Jamaicans can boast of our giants who stood tall against centuries of oppression. We produced heroes that impacted not just our great island nation, but the world,” Holness said, while saluting the country’s seven great national heroes for their monumental and impactful work in fighting for freedom and independence.

The prime minister also saluted the countries modern-day heroes who have risked their lives to help others.

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Dr Peter Phillips, in his message, called for greater use of the media, classroom and creative arts in the preservation of the country’s heritage.

“Once again, it is time for us to recognise and celebrate the achievements of our national heroes. Collectively, their exploits and accomplishments have paved the way for Jamaica to move from plantation slavery to nationhood.

“However, we need to bear in mind that with each passing year, fewer and fewer Ja-

maicans have any living memory of any of our heroes. It is therefore of the utmost importance that we utilise the media, the classroom and our creative artists to inform and educate our children of the great heritage and the great legacy that we have inherited,” he said.

Phillips also praised members of the security forces who place their lives at risk daily; teachers, health care workers and other public sector workers who often give their personal time and resources to ensure that national social services are effectively managed.

“Respect is also due to the thousands of Jamaicans who give voluntary service through their citizens’ associations, neighbourhood watches or youth clubs, on behalf of their fellow citizens,” he added.

According to the Opposition leader, those present-day heroes provide a reminder that the vision, hopes and aspirations of the founding heroes of our nation are still to be fully realised.

- Jamaica Observer

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feature

PAGE 17

Victoria Mutual Home of Financial Independence The road to financial independence is a long and arduous one. People work and save their whole lives just to accumulate sufficient personal wealth to live comfortably, without having to work actively for the basic necessities of life. For financially independent people, their assets generate income and/or cash flow from dipping into the assets that are at least as great as their expenses.

In 1878, Rev. G.W. Downer, Rector of Kingston Parish Church and a group of clergymen, founded The Victoria Mutual Building Society (VMBS), an institution built on strong values and principles and designed specifically to “meet the needs of the deserving thrifty”. Their vision was to empower a large segment of the Jamaican population to help one another through a process that involved the pooling of their resource to save and acquire homes. The objective then, as it remains today, was to fund a Mutual financial institution that would enable all Jamaicans to achieve the goal of becoming proud homeowners.

“They saw a need for financial services to be offered to everyone equally in Jamaica of that day,” explains Christopher Denny Vice President - Service and Sales Support for VMBS.

“The original mission of Victoria Mutual was to give access to everyone equally irrespective of your race, your creed, your religion, your origin; it was all about equality in the beginning and it was about giving every person especially those who were less fortunate an opportunity to access financial services.” he elaborates.

VMBS’ founding fathers had a goal of finding a way to partner with industrious but financially excluded Jamaicans, to assist them with savings and home acquisition.

VMBS opened its first branch in Kingston and the Society has since expanded its branch network to a total of fifteen branches in Jamaica and representative offices in the UK and the

USA. Victoria Mutual has been proactive in forging relationships with overseas nationals and they are proud of being the first Jamaican financial institution to establish international offices, or service bureaus as they were initially called, to serve the needs of the diaspora.

“Victoria Mutual is a Mutual organization,” Denny continues. “What that means is that it’s a cooperative; as a depositor, at Victoria Mutual, you are a stakeholding member, and when we hold our annual meetings, each member gets a vote irrespective of the size of their deposit.” he clarifies.

In order to better serve the Jamaican population across the globe, they have strived to make it as all-inclusive as possible to serve the needs of their clients. They are dedicated to empowering their members globally to acquire their own homes and achieve their financial independence by providing innovative solutions and excellent service delivered by a highly competent and engaged team and through multiple channels.

“Our stakeholder drive is completely different from your normal shareholder led company structure where people are trying to maximize profits,” Denny says. “We actively try to track value for our members.”

Victoria Mutual works actively to implement easy accessibility to their members wherever they are in the world and in 2001 they opened up a representative office in Canada. In 2016 they made the decision to close the office and opted for a more virtual type of arrangement.

“We found in Canada that many of our clients were so widely dispersed, and so many of them were treating with us electronically,” Denny explained. “And so it made more sense for us to focus our efforts on that type of delivery for our market in Canada.”

While they had closed the office they still wanted to have that human touch and personalized interaction with their members to accommodate their needs and answer their

question as they would have had they come to the office personally to speak with a member of the Victoria Mutual team. Members in Canada are encouraged to take advantage now of their Virtual Office presence, where they can receive information over the phone about different services, be guided to the various pages on the VMBS website to open accounts online, and complete and submit other important documentation.

“We are the first financial institution in Jamaica that is able to allow you to apply, and submit all of your documentation associated with getting a mortgage entirely online,” Denny exclaims.

They take pride in the speed of their application processing, promising to deliver a response within two weeks of submission, and are working to develop better, faster methods all the time.

In order to cater to the changing needs of the membership, the organization has expanded its product offering beyond the traditional savings and mortgage loan products.

These are offered through its Strategic Business Units Victoria Mutual Wealth Management Limited (VMWM), Prime Asset Management Limited (Prime), Victoria Mutual Money Transfer Services (VMTS), Victoria Mutual Property Services (VMPS) and affiliate company British Caribbean Insurance Company (BCIC).

Victoria Mutual Building Society is determined to serve their Jamaican clients all over the world. They are 700 team members strong working to keep their customers satisfied, to ensure they are making regular deposits to their accounts in Jamaica. Because they are a Mutual organization they aim to develop strong relationships with their members.

“Even when our clients go away, they still want to have the ability to bank with us,” Denny says. “Unfortunately, when you are abroad, sending money to make regular deposits takes a little time. The current meth-

ods of sending money either by mail or wire transfer tends to get expensive so we are currently working on a better way to make that happen, and it is one of our works in progress to continue keeping our overseas customers happy.”

After closing their Canadian office VMBS received a lot of feedback, that they had abandoned the Canadian market, which was definitely not the case.

“Nothing could have been further from the truth,” Denny explains. “We have in fact been working harder to please our clients and our Jamaican Diaspora in Canada by introducing new capabilities to make it easier for them to bank with us,” he says.

“The member engagement team is always ready and waiting at all times to engage with our members answer their questions and deliver their needs.”

The VMBS remains very committed to helping every Jamaican to achieve their personal financial independence. They want their members to know that they are always there for them whether they reside in Jamaica or life abroad. They are a mutual financial organization whose purpose is committed to partnering with our communities to improve quality of life.

There is nothing more glorious than the feeling of achieving financial independence. The freedom gained is worth so much to those that conquer that goal, and it leads to a more worry and stress-free lifestyle in the long run.

Victoria Mutual Building Society is there to help you reach your financial goals, reach out to them today to find out how you can get started on the liberating path of financial independence.

Written by Alyssa Mahadeo Toronto Caribbean Reporter

entertainment

PAGE 18

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 18, 2017

A3C (All 3 Coasts) Music Festival dt@carib101.com

Entertainment A3C is a hip-hop music festival that happens in Atlanta, Georgia every year, usually on or around the first weekend in October. While there are many official A3C stages, there are also many opportunities for Indie artists to shine and taste some of the spotlight. Many promoters in Atlanta organize Indie artist showcases and also create opportunities for independent artists to open for bigger name independent artists. While the main festivities happen at the Georgia Freight Depot, the rest of the city is also abuzz with activity. That weekend also hosts the Annual ATL Hip-Hop Fest at Woodruff Park In downtown Atlanta, as well as the Sweet Auburn Music Festival. But as an independent artist, all you have to do is walk up Auburn, Edgewood Avenue, or Peters Street and you can meet everyone you need to know, from celebrities to promoters, to industry execs, radio stations, and tons of Indie artists.

When going to A3C you will meet many people, and this being my third time down for the festival, I was able to come

tures and info about independent artists. So here is an A3C preparedness starter kit if you intend to head to Atlanta next year. 1) Have business cards made with your contact info. 2) Have flyers made. 3) Bring CDs with your music (yes artists still give those out) 4) Have t-shirts with your brand, or a partnership brand that you work with. 5) Have your camera or your phone always charged and ready to go. 6) Bring your performance tracks on your USB key and be always ready to perform. 7) Have a budget. Many of the shows that are going on have a cost to per-

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form, so prepare a budget in advance. If you are looking for a cheaper route, there are also many open mics that happen in and around the Atlanta area. Some places to check out include Apache Café and Sweet Water.

A3C is the time to meet all the right people and be seen by all of the right people.

So make sure when you head to A3C you’re prepared in advance to take advantage of all the festival has to offer. See you next year A3C www.a3cfestival.com

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back and meet up with great people that I have met over the last two years and kept in contact with. First off when you’re going to a hip-hop festival, everybody is showing up dressed in their best hip-hop gear, and so should you. If you’re looking to get custom shirts with your logo on it (which I highly recommend) then you need to head over to Tees and Quotes, located at 244 Peters Street, SW Atlanta, GA 30313. When you go in ask for Miss O. She will take great care of you. After that I know you’re going to be looking for radio play for your new single, so hit up my people from the Open Mic show on Highly Unique Radio. The contact people are @kingd85nawf and @name_poppin_like_crisco on Instagram. Tell them DT sent you and you will get the family treatment. Not only do they have access to radio, but they are both well connected throughout the city and can get you access to shows, promoters, and even photo shoots with National Media Arts. Another great tool to use towards getting shows and knowing what’s happening around the city during this time is eventbrite.com, put the location to Atlanta, and type in A3C, and you will have access to most of what is going on. Be prepared, you never know who you might run into in Atlanta during A3C.

Lastly a little advice on things to bring with you. In Atlanta hip-hop is taken very seriously, and artists go the extra mile, don’t be surprised when you see cars, vans, trucks, and even buses wrapped with pic-

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travel

PAGE 20

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Top Family Vacation Recommendations Vanessa Erdelyi

vanessa@carib101.com

Travel So many destinations, which one will you choose? Are you having a hard time deciding where to spend your family vacation? I have a few recommendations for you.

Firstly, if you are a family and

you are traveling on a tight budget it’s still possible to head to the islands for your holidays. The very popular Memories Varadero (located in Cuba) is a perfect choice. It’s a 3.5 star and located right on the beach with pristine white sand. The beach here is amazing! This resort is far from boring and full of excitement for everyone. It even has a water slide; it is fun for adults too! This resort has something for everyone.

My second recommendation Is the Memories Splash Punta Cana located in the Dominican Republic. It is a little pricier, but overall a higher quality resort and rated a 4.5 star. This is a one of a kind resort and has the largest water

park on site. This large on-site waterpark is suitable for older children/teens and adults who love a good thrill. There is also a kids club with a variety of planned activities for the younger children. This all-inclusive resort is an amazing choice.

It has delicious cuisine and a variety of dining options including buffet or a la carte style (made to order/menu).

My next recommendation would be the Riu Emerald Bay in MazatlĂĄn, Mexico. It is on a gorgeous stretch of golden sand beach. It is a very relaxed environment with extremely large pools to lounge in. There is a club for kids between the ages of 4-12. There are many activities and non-motorized water

sports also. This is one of the best priced 5-star resorts you will find.

Last but certainly not least, I recommend traveling to the beautiful island of Antigua. This island has 365 beaches (one for each day of the year!). In particular, I recommend the resort called The Verandah Resort and Spa. This resort takes pride in being a Green Global certified resort and is also all-inclusive.

It has the largest free flow pool on the island. It also has lots of dining options including a beautiful pool front restaurant and a tranquil spa for your utmost relaxation.

Where ever you decide to travel, I wish you all the best experience!

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food

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Puff Pastry with Greens

clings to its leaves after washing). Cook about 4 minutes, until the spinach is bright green and tender. Today’s recipe showcases healthy sautéd greens, including spinach, served on top of a crisp, tender-crusted puff pastry. Of all the pastries that exist, puff pastry is a favorite as it’s really easy to work with. Cut this dish into bite-sized pieces for an appetizer to serve many, or pair it with a big salad for a light dinner.

Eartha Lowe

eartha@carib101.com

Puff Pastry with Greens You’ll need • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil • 5 oz spinach leaves, stems removed • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 4 cups mustard greens, loosely packed • 1 x 500g pack puff pastry (vegan option available) • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Green Healthy Eating Nothing short of astonishing is the countless ways to incorporate spinach into your meal plan and enjoy a variety of nutritional benefits. Spinach stands out as an impressive leafy green rich in water-soluble vitamins, minerals (especially iron), and a wide variety of phytonutrients, and is not only commonplace in salad bars, but in many different types of cuisine. It is important to recognize the amazing versatility of spinach, a food widely enjoyed even as a smoothie add-in.

Some of the best cooking methods for spinach include steaming or sautéd. To steam spinach, place it in a covered saucepan with about a tablespoon of water (or with the water that

Directions Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Heat the oil in a large skillet. Add the garlic and onion and sauté for 2 minutes. Add the spinach and mustard greens. Continue to sauté

until greens are tender, about 3 – 4 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.

Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a rectangle and transfer to the baking sheet. Top with the spinach mixture, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge for it to puff up during baking. Place in the oven and bake for 15 – 20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is flaky and just starting to brown. Remove from the oven, slice, and serve.

Tip: This dish tastes amazing paired with a creamy garlic dip.

Category: vegan, vegetarian Prep and cook time: 30 minutes Difficulty: super easy!

Serves: 4 Bonus recipe: Spinach, Orange & Mango Smoothie Spinach is in it! Even the most health-conscious diner can get to the end of a day and forget to eat a leafy green; life gets busy. Or maybe, you are not that crazy about eating vegetables. But what if there was a way to veg out by making several servings of fruits and vegetables into a

delicious, easy-to-consume snack that require no cooking, very little chopping, and no chewing?

Odds are, sitting on your kitchen counter is a tool that can turn any variety of fruits and vegetables you missed eating on any given day, into enticing drinks in moments: the blender.

You’ll need • 2 cups packed spinach leaves • 2 cups frozen mango • 1 orange, peeled • 1/4 cup dry oats • 1 1/2 cups almond milk Directions Add all ingredients in a good blender. Blend until smooth. Serve immediately.

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Wednesday, October 18, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

food

How To Cook The Perfect Turkey

a turkey will deliver an incredibly moist, juicy and tender bird for the big day!

Philip DeWar

1.

philip@carib101.com

Caribbean Fused Cuisine Although Thanksgiving has passed, we have another big holiday coming up in Christmas. This year, make sure your turkey is cooked perfectly so it can be the star of the table.

All too often turkey comes out overcooked, dry and so dependent on packaged gravy that the meat becomes an afterthought. Considering it takes the most effort to prepare, it should be the best part of the meal otherwise you’re wasting your time!

Breaking some common traditions about cooking

2.

Do not stuff your turkey with bread stuffing!

- This has been the most common meth-od for decades. Why do you think this kind of stuffing tastes so great? Because it’s loaded with all the moisture from the turkey! All the bread inside stuffing is sucking out all juice and completely drying out the meat. Cook your stuffing on the stove top instead, and to get the richness you need sauté some bacon and then cook your stuffing in the same pan.

Same (if not more) flavor and you won’t dry out the turkey Do stuff it with aromatics! - Chop an onion and lemon in quarters and stuff. Add some garlic cloves and a few bay leaves. As the turkey cooks the lemon and onion will steam and their moisture and flavors will permeate the turkey from the inside. Instead of drying juice out, it will actually infuse the meat and add wonderful flavor as well! This will also help create a complex gravy for you to use as well.

3.

4.

Prepare a compound butter and stuff inside the skin - This sounds a bit complicated but it’s really not. Prepare a compound butter by combining 1 stick of unsalted but-ter, a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, 3 cloves of minced gar-lic, 1 tbsp of olive oil and the zest of 1 lemon. mix everything together at room tem-perature and form it into a ball. With the turkey, you’ll want to begin to separate the skin from the breasts at both ends.. not all the way through because you don’t want the butter to melt away too much. Insert the butter in between the skin and the breast and pat it down flat so it covers as much as possible. Now you’ve got flavor and moisture coming from the inside and the outside! Rub any remaining butter on the outside of the turkey to help brown the skin during cooking Start it hot then let it cook slowly! - Preheat the oven to 425F. Put the turkey in the hot oven for 15 minutes. Remove it and baste while turning the oven down to 350F. Reinsert and let it cook slowly for about 2 1/2 hours (30 minutes per kg) while bast-ing

5.

PAGE 27

occasionally. What this does is immediately start the browning process on the outside.

Doing this first instead of waiting until the end and leaving it in the oven an extra 30 minutes will prevent you from overcooking and, once again, drying it out!

Let it rest - All too often once the turkey comes out of the oven carving happens right away. Don’t! Let it rest in the roasting pan with a lid on for about 30 minutes. It seems like a long time, but the turkey will not get cold, promise. This will relax all the juices and keep it held in the flesh as opposed to carving right away.

Follow these steps and we guarantee you will have an amazingly rich, moist, tender and flavorful turkey to be the star of your Christmas dinner!

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Wednesday, October 18, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

beauty

How to Apply False Eyelashes special occasions? They can really make your eyes pop. So, here is what you can do and the tools you’ll need.

Kizzy Courtney

• •

kizzy@carib101.com

Beauty Tips

Beautiful long eyelashes make eyes look bigger, fuller and more appealing. Sadly, not all of us are blessed with such lashes. Applying false lashes is an art that many of us have yet to master. And a bad application can literally leave you in tears, ruining your makeup in the process. When choosing false eyelashes; those with deep-set eyes should opt for fluffy, dramatic lashes, hooded eyes suit shorter pairs, and downturned eyes look best with natural styles that are slightly longer at the outer corner. Now, if you’re a beginner I’m not saying you should break out your falsies for work, school, or even day-to-day but for

•

•

Magnifying Mirror: Since applying falsies is such an intricate process, using a magnifying mirror will be a major help.

Scissors: When it comes to strip lashes, they are usually too long for most eye shapes and require a trim. Hold the lashes against your eyes and trim the part that extends beyond your natural lash line.

Eyelash Glue: A high-quality glue is necessary for the long-lasting application.

DUO is the Holy Grail lash glue, it will keep your falsies in place until you take them off, and it won’t leave any white residue. Squeeze out a bit of lash glue onto the back of your hand and using a Q-Tip, apply a thin layer of glue to the base of your falsies, concentrating more adhesive at the corners. Wait 30 seconds for the glue to get tacky before applying.

Lash Curler: The goal is for your falsies to seamlessly mesh with your natural lashes. Use a curler to prep your natural

•

•

• •

lashes with your falsies!

Tweezers: If you’re not comfortable using your fingers for application, use tweezers.

With your fingers or tweezers start by applying the strip to the center of your lash line getting as close to your natural lash line as you can. Once you apply it to the center, use your tweezers to press down the inner and outer corners. As annoying as it is, try not to blink during this process (the glue’s not fully dry yet)! When the glue sets, gently press your natural lashes and falsies together to mesh them. Just be careful not to poke your eye!

Black Eyeshadow/Black Eyeliner: Once your lashes are applied, check to see if there’s any visible skin between your lash line and falsies. If there is, go in with a matte black shadow or eyeliner to conceal it.

Black Mascara: Just like a lash curler, you should use a black mascara to make sure your natural lashes and falsies blend well together.

Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover: Patience is key. When you’re ready to take off your

PAGE 29

lashes, dab a little eye makeup remover on your falsies, let it sit for a minute, then gently slide the lashes off. Once you’ve removed your falsies with eye makeup remover, pick off any visible glue you see on the false lashes, then thoroughly clean it again with eye makeup remover (go with oil-free as oily removers will make it harder for the adhesive to stick to the falsies next time). Store your lashes in the container they originally came in, and they should be good to go for additional uses. Yes, falsies are reusable if you take proper care of them.

It is best to choose good quality false eyelashes, that doesn’t mean you should go out and buy the most expensive lashes on the market but descent lashes will look better and last longer. Walmart sells great lashes, the brands ‘Kiss’ and ‘Ardelle’ are great lashes to start with. False eyelashes can give any makeup look that extra ‘oomph’ needed to pull the look together. When it comes to lash application, as with most makeup techniques, it only takes practice!

Saturday December 2 2017

LIVE EVERY THURSDAY FROM 1-2PM When it comes to real estate, Jay Brijpaul has the right knowledge and experience to get you through any situation. Since 1988, Jay has bought and sold over $1.75 Billion in residential and commercial properties. The Brij Team is consistently among the top Remax agencies in Canada and around the world out of 100,000 Remax agents in 82 countries. Jay is a member of the Fellow of the Real Estate Institute of Canada (FRI) and belongs to the prestigious Remax elite Circle of Legends club. Known as THE BRIJ, he is also a real estate investor for both residential and commercial properties.

From buying your first home, real estate laws and legalities, rentals, renovations and more, every Thursday from 1:00pm-2:00pm EST Jay will be live to discuss all things real estate.

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Wednesday, October 18, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Selective Mutism

Allison Brown

allison@carib101.com

Health Care This past week a reader asked me to write about selective mutism. Each request for a topic allows me to share information in a way that is easy to understand. I want to remind readers that it is important to build relationships with your primary care provider, either a physician and or nurse practitioner. It is important to get symptoms checked out by a healthcare professional.

Selective mutism is a severe childhood anxiety disorder where a child is unable to speak in situations such as school. Affecting 1% of the population, selective mutism is rare. The term ‘selective’ means that it does not occur in all situations. Often extreme shyness, fear of social embarrassment, anxiety and social isolation can be present. In situations where the child feels relaxed (with friends and family) for example; speech is normal.

It is believed that children with selective mutism have a genetic predisposition to anxiety. They have inherited a tendency to be anxious from one or more family members. Very often, these children show signs of severe anxiety,

such as separation anxiety, frequent tantrums, and crying, moodiness, inflexibility, sleep problems, and extreme shyness from infancy on according to Dr. Shipon-Blum.

Dr. Shipon-Blum also states that “…some children (20-30%) with selective mutism have subtle speech and/or language abnormalities such as receptive and/or expressive language abnormalities and language delays. Others may have subtle learning disabilities including auditory processing disorder. In most of these cases, the children have inhibited temperaments (prone to shyness and anxiety). The added stress of the speech/ language disorder, learning disability, or processing disorder may cause the child to feel that much more anxious and insecure or uncomfortable in situations where there is an expectation to speak.”

It is said that some children feel as though they are on stage at all times and this is what adds to anxious feelings.

Often negative behaviors are common before school and or social outings. It is very important for parents and teachers to understand that the physical and behavioral symptoms are due to anxiety and treatment needs to focus on helping the child learn the coping skills to combat anxious feelings.

Once the diagnosis is made treatment can include behavior therapy; self-re-enforcement, which involves receiving an award for speaking; selfmodeling, in which the child views videos of himself speaking in a classroom

health

and receiving an award; response initiation, in which the child spends time with the therapist until they speak, usually one to two hours but sometimes over four hours and up to a day; teaching the child’s teachers and parents to stop negative re-enforcement, such as assuming the child may not speak; family therapy, which may help the child overcome anxiety, and medication to treat anxiety.

It is important for parents to advocate for their children as the dialogue that comes from professionals and teachers will often tell a parent, the child is just shy, or they will outgrow their silence. Others interpret the mutism as a means of being oppositional and defiant, manipulative or controlling. Some professionals erroneously view selective mutism as a variant of autism or an indication of severe learning disabilities.

Like all conditions or diseases especially those in childhood it is vitally important to ensure a correct diagnosis, so that time and efforts are not lost on misdiagnosis. Parents and caregivers, I cannot stress enough to meet your practitioners halfway and build those relationships. Don’t leave it all up to the practitioners, oftentimes as a parent or caregiver, your intuition or gut feeling is what makes the difference between a positive versus negative outcome.

This article is dedicated to all of the parents and caregivers out there who are coping with various situations day to day. Thank you for your perseverance, love, and sacrifices.

Does Your Height Affect Your Health?

New research is showing there may be an upside to being short. A study in a cardiovascular journal links your risk of blood clots to your height, with taller people having a greater risk.

Blood clotting, also known by the medical term thrombosis, is a relatively unknown but common condition. Worldwide, one in four people die of conditions caused by blood clots.

Thrombosis involves blood clots forming most often in the deep vein of the leg (known as deep vein thrombosis), which can travel in the circulation and lodge

in the lungs, causing potentially serious breathing problems.

While being tall is one predictor of the condition, other factors could also contribute to increased risk. Obesity, cancer and immobility all add to your chances of developing a blood clot.

It’s important to know the risks, because many people, especially if hospitalized, may have little or no symptoms of a blood clot until a life-threatening situation occurs.

Another risk factor for thrombosis is having an irregular heart beat

(atrial fibrillation). You’re at a greater risk of this condition if you drink alcohol, are obese, or have heart disease, or if you have high blood pressure or other chronic conditions like sleep apnea.

Fortunately, if you are on the taller side or have any of these risk factors, there are steps you can take to reduce your odds. Ask your health professional if you are at risk and get evaluated.

- News Canada

Secrets to Staying Fit and Healthy During the Holidays

It’s no wonder our health often takes a backseat to the cheerful chaos of this season, but incorporating a few simple tips can help change this. Here’s how to get started.

1. Get moving. While our schedules may feel more active, our workout routines may take a break and we lose out on the benefits of exercise.

It’s also important to move and be physical if we take long car rides or plane trips to visit family and friends. Thrombosis Canada recommends taking short walking breaks during these treks to de-stress and to reduce the risk of developing blood clots, or thrombosis, from inactivity.

2. Focus on fun, not food. Instead of letting calorie-rich meals be the centre of your celebrations, keep the attention on active traditions like trimming the tree or going ice-skating.

When you do enjoy your favourite treats and cocktails, keep it to one night of indulging, not a whole season, to avoid overeating. Throughout the season, pick a passion project like organizing family photos to keep you busy.

3. Be generous with yourself. Remember that you’re likely overexerting and overextending yourself right now, so take a few extra steps to nourish your mind and body. Stay hydrated, get plenty of sleep and

be flexible when things don’t go as planned.

4. Learn the signs of serious conditions. It’s common to experience a bit of anxiety and tiredness with added social and family commitments. But knowing the signs of some serious health conditions can help you determine whether it’s regular holiday strain or you need to see your doctor. For example, atrial fibrillation has symptoms that we might associate with stress, like rapid heartbeat and fatigue, but is a condition that may lead to further complications and requires medical treatment.

- News Canada

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yoga

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Let’s Do the Twist Trisha Curling

trishacurling@carib101.com

Yoga Discussing the benefits of yoga is an endless conversation. The many aspects and the way that both our practice and our lives change to reflect the other allows us to travel along the journey of yoga with a continued sense of curiosity and learning. Even after doing the same pose 100 times, there is always something new to discover and/or a new place to direct our focus in each pose. If we take a look at twisting poses, for example, we

have the ability to focus on the impact these types of poses have on our organs to influence our digestion in a positive way. Our focus can also be directed more towards our skeletal structure, more specifically the spine and how we have the potential to revitalize health and longevity in this area of the body.

It’s true our focus can be completely separate from the body as well, but how wonderful it is to know that there are gentle movements that can have the ability to rewrite the experiences we have in our bodies in the moment and in the future.

Digestion may not be the first thing that comes to mind when we pick up our mats and water bottles to head to a yoga class, but it is certainly being tended to while we practice. Our breath alone has a significant impact on this system. When we breathe deeply it acts as a mild massage to the organs that are responsible for digestion. Digestion is extremely important to our health because when functioning well, our

bodies more easily, absorb nutrients which can then be used as energy. Twisting poses are important because they are said to have to ability to promote blood flow through our organs which helps to detoxify them. Creating these shapes with our bodies compresses the organs of digestion. When we do this, we promote the removal of waste. Allowing the system to continue to remove waste from the body is part of what aids in the absorption of nutrients.

It’s pretty amazing to think that by simply executing twisting poses in our practice we can influence such powerful systems in our bodies. When practicing, we can also bring our focus to the impact these poses have on the spine. Consider your disc health. Part of the responsibility of the discs in our spine is to absorb impact and create space between each vertebra. The way that the discs receive their “nutrition” is through movement (which is why movement is so imperative to life). Twisting postures aid

in hydrating the discs. When we twist, we change and/or equalize the pressure inside of them by drawing more necessary fluid inside. There is no need for bold, large movements to initiate this process. Simple gentle movements provide a great deal of benefit.

The thoracic spine is an area of the spine that is more fixed than the cervical and lumbar areas. This is an area that should be more fixed (due to rib cage attachment), but should also have a healthy degree of mobility. Performing twisting poses offers us the opportunity to promote healthy mobility in this area.

As always, the benefits are not limited to what has been discussed in this article, but they are reasons enough to continue to motivate us to continue to move. Performing twists can allow us to be more upright and healthy in our postures, but they can also help us to bend and swerve as all types of movements are what adds to the vitality of our lives and overall health.

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Wednesday, October 18, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

life

PAGE 35

Is Your Will Fool Proof? How To Avoid Challenges To Wills Valerie Dye

valerie@carib101.com

Legal Matters Most people recognize the importance of having a will to ensure that their estate is managed smoothly after they die. Unfortunately, having a will does not necessarily prevent discord among loved ones after they die. The Courts are replete with actions brought by disgruntled loved ones who seek to challenge a will. What are some of the things that can open a will to challenges in court?

As mentioned in the previous article, failure to leave an inheritance for a loved

one can give rise to claims for dependant support. The court may uphold such claims on the ground that there is a moral obligation to leave enough provision for our loved ones after we die.

Apart from the challenges that arise through claims for dependant support wills can be challenged on other grounds. One of those grounds is that the testator may not have had the capacity to make a will. Lack of testamentary capacity most often occurs if the testator does not have the presence of mind to understand that he or she is making a will. The testator must also understand and be aware of the amount of property he or she owns, understand the extent of what he is giving under the will and remembers the people who should normally benefit under the will. Once suspicious circumstances are found then the persons seeking to probate the will must prove that the testator had the capacity to make the will.

As highlighted in cases such as Laframboise v. Laframboise, 2011 ONSC a

testator may have a mental disorder but still have the capacity to make a will. In that case, the court found that despite the fact that the testator suffered from depression and mood swings he still had testamentary capacity. A testator may suffer from memory loss and other cognitive challenges or be unable to take care of himself but still, have testamentary capacity. In Re Weidenberger Estate, [2002] A.J. No 1157 the court stated that: ‘The fact that the deceased was mentally ill and suffered from confusion is not determinative as to whether the deceased did or did not have the requisite testamentary capacity.

Cognitive impairment or confusion alone is not grounds for declaring a person incapable of making a will.’

Even a testator who suffers from delusions may still be found to have testamentary capacity unless the delusion is of the type that is classified as insanity and affects his judgment in relation to his property and beneficiaries.

It is clear that having mental health

The EQAO: To Be Or Not To Be

Kathy McDonald kathy@carib101.com

Education At the October 10th regular meeting of the Peel District School Board, the board passed a motion to write a letter to the Minister of Education, Mitzie Hunter requesting that the EQAO (Education Quality and Accountability Office) testing be suspended for the 2017/2018 school year. The decision was not a unanimous one and there was quite a lengthy debate. I will present both sides of the debate and encourage parents to pay close attention to the events that may or may not occur as a result of this motion.

The motion submitted read: “Whereas there has always been a strong discrepancy between Peel District School Board report card results in mathematics and EQAO mathematics scores, and Whereas the Ministry of Education has stated that it is time to “examine provincial measurement and assessment policy including EQAO testing”. Therefore, be it proposed the Peel District School Board request the Ministry of Education to suspend EQAO testing for

the 2107/2018 school year and request the support of Ontario public school board associations and all other public school boards in Ontario for this motion.“

The supporters of this motion argued that since the Ministry of Education is reviewing the test, boards should not administer it until the review is completed. Many also argued that the EQAO does not take into account factors such as high ESL (English as a Second Language) populations, transient populations, poverty or other barriers to success in standardized tests. The naysayers also argued that realtors and other institutions unfairly rank schools solely based on these scores that are merely a snapshot of a student’s achievement. What about the validity of the report card that is the reflection of a student’s achievement as mirrored by a teacher that knows the student more personally? Others argued that the test is not culturally responsive, equitable and does not align with the modern learner. A student that just arrives in Canada that may not be fully competent in English is still required to write the test and that student’s score will be tabulated and used to calculate on the schools overall standing. Critics of the EQAO also felt that the EQAO tends to label schools and in turn unfairly label teachers and staff.

The EQAO website states “EQAO assess how well Ontario’s public education system is developing students’ reading, writing and math skills. EQAO provides reliable and useful information that is used to help

improve student achievement and ensure the accountability of school boards”. The EQAO is a direct measure of the Ontario Curriculum measure of expectation. The EQAO has both an implicit and explicit component. The test seeks to look at the implicit understanding in text by extending the understanding of a text to one’s own personal knowledge. In the numeracy assessment rubric, the application of mathematical concepts is assessed as well as number sense, measurement, geometry, spatial sense, pattering, algebra, data management and probability. Students have to convey their thinking and understanding of mathematical concepts.

The trustees that did not support the motion argued that it is important to have accountability measures. When the EQAO results are published each year the Ministry of Education gets valuable information that it uses to guide for example, what extra supports needed for schools that are struggling.

Based on the EQAO results and after careful analysis, the Ministry of Education often provides extra funding to help initiatives that aim to improve student’s outcomes in any identified schools that are below ministry expectations. In the past when the literacy test scores were not satisfactory the government poured significant financial support into improving the literacy competencies. The initiatives appear to be successful as the literacy scores continue to be above the provincial expectations for most students. However, in the area of numeracy students appear to still

issues does not in itself mean that a person lacks testamentary capacity.

Wills can also be challenged on the ground that there was undue influence or duress exerted upon the testator that caused him to dispose of his property in a way that he did really want. The issue of undue influence is greater with a testator who is old and depends on someone to take care of him. As stated in Duschl vs Duschl Estate 2008 ONSC the testator must be placed under such coercion that if he could speak he would say “This is not my wish but I must do it’. However, it is not enough to show that the party benefitting under the will had the power to coerce the testator. That person must have actually exercised that power and caused the testator to make a will against his wishes. One way of preventing claims of undue influence is to ensure that beneficiaries are not present when the will is being made.

struggle. What might the review reveal to educators, students, parents, and policymakers? Could it be that math instruction needs to be reevaluated? What about the delivery and the content of the curriculum? What happens to our marginalized students when the accountability piece is removed from the equation? How will we know if they are being adequately served by an education system that may or may not truly believe in their potential? What impact will the absence of empirical data have on student data collection and the potential supports that can improve student outcomes? Disaggregated data collection analysis is at the center of this debate.

What does the EQAO really tell us about your child and their learning? What does the EQAO tell you about your child and their learning? What impact does the EQAO have on your family? Caregivers, do you know that there are many national and international math tests that students can write? It would be interesting to have more students participating so we could have yet another gauge as to the numeracy competency of children across the province. Later I will discuss the actual report that is generated for an individual that wrote the test, what it means to him or her, what it means for the school, what it means for the PDSB and how this relates to all students provincially. So, Walk Good. Belle Marché.

PAGE 36

community

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Relationships; Is It Time You Started Analyzing HURRICANE Your Role In Your Relationship? Part III IRMA ISLAND RELIEF FUND Simone In light of the recent devastation that has swept through the Caribbean due to Hurricane Irma, the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper would like to aid in the hurricane relief effort to help the families that have been affected by this storm.

Hurricane IRMA, the most powerful hurricane ever recorded, has left a path of devastation in the Caribbean and continues to threaten many more of the islands in the south. The storm hit the Caribbean last week with the full force of its Category 5 winds. The full force of IRMA was felt by islands like Saint Martin, Antigua and Barbuda St. Thomas, and St. John in the US Virgin Islands, Turks and Caicos and Cuba.

Relief and recovery is needed on all of these islands, as many of them have been flattened to the point where they are no longer fit to live.

The people of the islands have lost their families, and their homes, and they are in need of immediate assistance.

Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who has been affected by this massive storm and to those who are in her path. At this time we are concentrating all efforts in raising funds to assist with the basic needs of families The damage has been monumental amongst the islands and 90% of the infrastructure has been reported destroyed. There is another storm developing in the wake of IRMA and the people are vulnerable. There are no electricity or water services and no radio. In association the island consulates here in Toronto, our fundraising will be directed to where it is needed most.

As the official fundraising campaign we are in close touch with the government to assess their needs. We ask for your help and generosity now and as we continue to support the various islands through their reconstruction.

This Fundraising effort will provide relief to survivors in the form of emergency supplies like food, water, clothing and medical supplies and will help immensely with the rebuilding process. All donations to this fund will exclusively support relief and recovery efforts.

Our goal is to help the islands in any way that we can during this time of need and as a community we need to do this now more than ever.

Please like, love and share

TO DONATE GoFundMe.com/Carib101

Smith

simone@carib101.com

A Better Tomorrow Greetings my Community! Wow! I am trying to remember where I left off. I know that I had to focus on some other topics the last couple of issues, but it is time to head back to building our community, and an important building block is the family. We left off discussing Dr. John Gottman’s principles for making a marriage work. Let me give you a bit on Dr. Gottman; he is a professor of psychology and founder of the Seattle Marital and Family Institute. He has taken the time to study hundreds of couples in amazing detail. He has observed and recorded couples interacting in comfort and during arguments, and it has been said that he can predict with 91% accuracy whether a couple will last or not.

After reading some of his work, I was intrigued by what he has found and I needed to share it with you Toronto. Let us see what we can take from his work to help with building. Let us review the Seven Principles briefly, and over the next few is-

sues, we will revisit them individually. If you have any questions or would like a link to the actual article, please feel free to contact me at simone@carib101.com. Alright, let us get the show on the road. Gottman established the principles after conducting his practical research on couples: • The first principle is Enhancing Your Love Maps • The second principle is Nurture Your Fondness and Admiration • Turning Toward Each Other means connecting with each other again • Principle four is Letting Your Partner Influence You • Solving Your Solvable Problems • Principle Six is Overcoming Gridlock • The last Principle, Create Shared Meaning The first principle, Enhance Your Love Maps, is about knowing your spouse very well. This includes all the good and bad about your partner. It is easy to get tunnel vision when you are in love; everything is about the emotion and feelings. Eventually, that part of the relationship wears off, and now this is when the real work begins. When learning love maps, it suggests knowing day to day habits and values as well as history.

A question might be about a partner’s best friends or current stresses. Yes! That means that at times, it is not going to be all about you; there has to be recognition of your partner and your partner’s needs. This is why it

is so important to learn and understand the person that you are with.

“Who Am I,” is an exercise that is based on this principle. This exercise will take about 30 -40 minutes. The first thing that needs to be done is you and your partner have to select a topic to discuss. It can be anything: sex, finances, dating, or children.

Each of you have to select a different topic.

The second part of this exercise allows you to write for 10 minutes on the topic. The third step is you swap papers with your spouse and discuss your responses. Each partner has 10 minutes to talk, and while each partner is talking, the other has to practice listening skills. Don’t argue, don’t give advice, don’t add or subtract, don’t share your opinion; you just have to listen. You will be surprised at what you learn about your partner and how they perceive the world.

The more you know about each other’s inner world, the more amazed you will be at who you have married. This exercise was designed to help with self-exploration and to help you share this exploration with your partner. This is ideal for all couples at all stages, even if you and your spouse consider yourselves open books. There is always more you can learn about someone. After all, people do change, and sometimes we have to learn and relearn someone.

Take some time to do this exercise, and then give me some feedback. I look forward to hearing from you Toronto!

Your Definition of Greatness Colleen Lindberg

colleen@carib101.com

Personal Development As I sit and ponder life today, I ask myself, “What is my definition of greatness?”

You know I’ve been through tons of experiences as most of us have. We take a look at the small things inside of our life that add up to larger things, that then add up to this moment in time. I think greatness for me is about taking the courage every day to continue to move forward. It’s about defying the odds. It’s about pushing boundaries. It’s about doing things that scare you. It’s about surpassing that little voice inside your head that says “I don’t think it’s possible” “There is no way you are getting that done” “No

one else has, so why do you think you can.”

Greatness comes in those moments where our knowledge, meets our courage and they come together to manifest this beautiful result.

You know greatness inside of each of us is about exploring and diversity. It’s about challenging our beings, our thinking, our mindset, to achieve new things. It’s about doing those things that when you look at it, you go “Wow, that’s great.”

You know what’s interesting as I sit and ponder the word “greatness”, I could compare it to athletes, visionaries, the Mother Theresa’s of the world, the firefighters that jump into burning buildings or those mountain climbers that climb the biggest mountains in the world. You can also take a look at people that have done certain things in their life, the ones we give them accolades for and it’s all about, how did they get there? You know they took one small step after one small step to achieve. They learned a new skill, they acquired new knowledge, they moved things through; they just kept going. I have been listening to a podcast by Lewis Howes

called “The School of Greatness” where he interviews all these great people. All of them come from different walks of life, different industries, different arenas but they have a few things in common. They didn’t give up on their desires and dreams. They had the courage to stand alone if that’s what it took.

They had laser focus and kept executing, especially when people said they couldn’t and lastly they just believed it would happen. Of course, they had their challenges, don’t we all.. but the sign of true greatness, they eat the challenge for lunch!

So, I say to you today, “What does greatness mean to you? How do you define greatness? And how are you going out every day to achieve greatness in your life?” Each of us has our own definition.

So, as I sit quietly today, contemplating greatness, I ask myself the questions, “Everyday are you being great? Everyday are you pushing new things forward, helping new people out and maneuvering through new information to make sure that you’ve aligned with your greatness?” So today I wish you to be “great!”

Wednesday, October 18, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Kezia’s 7 Reasons People Are Dishonest In Romantic Relationships Kezia Royer-Buckett kezia@carib101.com

Loves, Likes & Shares I’m a part of a fascinating WhatsApp group chat with many very interesting, entertaining and at times intriguing characters, and personalities, with various backgrounds, ethnicities, and gender. We talk about different topics and share our personal lives, we’ve become like a little family. A question that was recently brought up in the group chat was can you be dishonest and still in love?

Majority of the group chat said yes and the one that said no, after very little convincing changed her answer to yes. Because we have all lied to our parents, children, partners, etc. and can still without a shadow of a doubt know that we love them. In the group chat, we decided to take the question one step further and discussed when it was okay, or justifiable dishonesty within a romantic relationship.

Based on conversations I have had with different individuals I have compiled a list of seven justifiable reasons/excuses to be dishonest in a romantic relationship.

1. If you feel as though your partner is not giving you the same attention they have in the past or you feel a lack of interest from your partner. I had multiple conversations and some personal experience, and I agree, I think a lot of people cheat or are dishonest when they feel lack of appreciation, interest, and attention. Whether it’s a woman or a man, both sexes have communicated that this is probably the most common reason people are dishonest in romantic relationships. Reason/ excuse number 2. Lack of connection and growing apart.

We all know relationships like anything else in life change over time, people grow apart, change their goals or expectations and perspective on life and realize through the changes and growth that their partner either didn’t improve and develop with them or changed and grew in a different direction. The third reason people feel it is justifiable to be dishonest to their partner is 3. If their partner is being dishonest with them or has been dishonest in the past.

Number three is like an eye for an eye type of scenario that people use to justify their actions. Number 4. While in a romantic relationship you

happen to fall in love with someone else unplanned. This reason to be dishonest can be used for a plethora of scenarios because essentially the dishonesty is stemmed from the fact that you don’t want to hurt the person you are in a romantic relationship with. It’s never easy telling harsh truths like the fact that you’ve fallen in love with someone else all while in a relationship. The fifth reason which could be related to all the all the reasons in this list is 5. The consequences that may take place for telling the truth. Telling the truth is always ideal in theory but in reality, honesty can sometimes come with very harsh outcomes and the results of telling the truth may not be favorable so generally, people avoid being one hundred percent honest to prevent conflict. As well as to avoid reason 6. The consequences of ending the relationship. Legal relationships like marriage or common-law relationships can have adverse financial and emotional outcomes when it comes time to end the relationship. No one purposely wants to put themselves in a difficult situation so many people lie to themselves as well as their partners just to attempt to avoid telling the truth and facing the consequences that may come with telling the truth.

7. The seventh and last reason on this list but not the last reason/ excuse people are dishonest in relationships is they are afraid of the negative perspective people, or their partner might view them in. Most people want others to view them in a particular light; they only want people to see the good aspects of themselves and never the negative ones.

The self-image preservation mindset is another very popular reason/excuse that people are dishonest within romantic relationships.

Society says honesty is the best policy, yet we live in a society where that is just a saying and not a reality. I believe as I mentioned before that honesty is the best policy, but I do also think that we have not been adequately taught how to be honest and how to receive others honesty. Society standards hold individual’s behavior accountable based on a standard perspective that is unattainable and unrealistic. There is no such thing as perfection if we fully grasp that concept, only then can we whole heartily accept and live in honesty and truth. Now that I shared my list of seven reasons people are dishonest in romantic relationships, I would like to hear your stories on scenarios where you felt like you had no choice but to be dishonest in your relationship. Email me at Kezia@carib101.com and share your story and I may post it in the next article.

in the six

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technology

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Stay in Touch With Family This Season

Holiday Ideas For Quality Time at Home

The holidays are a joyful time to share with family and loved ones. Open your home as well as your heart, and bring everyone together to celebrate around your home theatre this holiday season: •

•

Blast from the past. Having everyone together for the holidays is the perfect time to take a stroll down memory lane. Work with your family to create a video slideshow of all your favourite photos from over the years and pair it with some holiday tunes. You’ll be sure to dig up some heartfelt and hilarious moments to cherish.

The full package. Why not pack in as many fun filled memories as you can? Whether you and your friends are hanging out listening and singing along to Christmas carols or watching

•

your favourite Christmas special, LG Ultra Slim Sound Bar is designed to pair beautifully with your TV – and its slim design won’t distract from your holiday décor. The expansive and precise audio will complement your holiday festivities, by bringing sounds to life.

Celebrate family. After all the dancing, singing and merriment, it’s time for you and your family to take it easy and connect with those that mean the most to you. Bring family from all over the world into your living room!

Video chat with them straight from your TV, and raise a glass of eggnog to family this holiday season.

- News Canada

During the holidays, we all want to be around family but sometimes distance keeps us away. A smartphone with advanced features is a great way to keep in touch throughout the season and bring everyone, at least figuratively, home for the holidays. Here are the top three things that you should consider when purchasing a new smartphone: •

•

Display: The holidays are the busiest time of the year and with travel, shopping and coordinating dinners, we can often forget to check-in and stay connected to our loved ones. Beyond a slim profile and excellent visuals, the LG family of smartphones, including the V30, G6 and Q6, are all developed with the 18:9 screen aspect ratio to create the perfect split screen. This feature allows you to view both ends of the video call (yourself and your caller) so you can interact in a virtual face-to-face, helping you better connect with your family and friends.

Camera: There are many magi-

•

cal moments that happen around the holidays and you want to ensure that they’re all captured and shared, making memories for years to come. It’s important when picking a new smartphone that you’re getting the absolute best camera and lens. No matter how large your family is a dual-camera, wide angle lens will enable you to capture the entire holiday clan. Mom will have no choice but to frame this one!

Audio: Celebrate this holiday season with your favourite classic carols. To really immerse yourself in holiday tunes, look for features like Quad DAC which allow you to hear music at its best.

Holidays are hectic and these smartphone solutions are sure to help you make the most of them. Having the right tool lets you turn every moment into a lasting memory.

- News Canada

BOO BIRDS

Wednesday, October 18, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

TAURUS

Venus in Libra, starting Saturday, sets you up for a social, romantic, or pleasure-seeking cash-in. Give and receive; a show of appreciation moves you/moves them. Mars/Uranus keep the excitement and intensity going strong late Saturday, but when it’s time to call it quits, there’s a sudden cutoff. Monday through Wednesday, trust your instincts— say it; do it.

Thursday through Saturday, have it your way; do right by yourself. If you are happy, they are too. Saturday/Sunday, watch for a late-in-the-day energy boost or for something unexpected to overtake you. Mercury/ Uranus can trigger anger, arguments, accidents, or physical reactions. Enjoy but play it safe with alcohol, drugs, and driving. Monday through Wednesday, activities and talks are productive.

CANCER

Friday/Saturday, it’s all good. Activities, conversations, and visits should hit their mark well. Mercury/Uranus keeps you quick-witted and going strong right to the evening’s finish line. Sunday/Monday, let yourself off the hook as best you can. Tuesday/Wednesday, seek and find; grab hold of it. Mercury keeps you sharp, shrewd, and well focused.

Words and actions hit their mark with greater than usual impact.

Feeling ambitious? No choice in the matter? Jupiter’s one-year transit through Scorpio pumps you full of resourcefulness and holds great potential for your sign. Saturday/ Sunday dishes up something fresh or extra, perhaps unexpectedly. Tuesday/Wednesday, take your best shot. Mercury/Jupiter give you a good feel for what’s under the hood.

Trust your gut.

LEO

VIRGO

Friday/Saturday, the Leo moon pumps you full of can-do. Reward, satisfaction, and pleasure are on the ready dial-up. Venus in Libra, starting Saturday, enhances creativity, social connectivity, and romantic possibility. Still, Sunday you can’t bank on the plan, action, conversation, or expectation to meet its mark. Monday to Wednesday, the getting and going are good. Mercury in Scorpio, starting Tuesday, sharpens your radar.

Thursday through Sunday keeps it/you on full tilt. Each day dishes up something fresh, different, or more. Saturday/Sunday, both Mercury/Uranus and Mars/Chiron keep the excitement or excitability on the dial-up.

While both are game-for-it/go-for-it breakthrough influences, they also make you feel vulnerable, exposed, or edgy. Monday through Wednesday, you’re on top of your game.

July 22 - August 22

IN THE STANDS

June 21 - July 22

August 22 - September 22

LIBRA

SCORPIO

As of Saturday, Venus joins the sun and Mercury in Libra. All three help you to look and sound your best. Mercury will leave Libra for Scorpio on Tuesday. Before it does, the quick one will strike it hot with Uranus, making the weekend something to talk about. Sunday could challenge health or patience. Monday is a productive one. Tuesday/Wednesday, don’t hold back.

Friday/Saturday keeps you making the most of it. Reward is justified. Even so, don’t throw caution to the wind regarding safety or health, especially late Saturday/ early Sunday. Keep tabs; take a taxi home or call one for a friend. Monday to Wednesday should prove especially productive and lucrative. Mercury in Scorpio, starting Tuesday, sharpens your mind, intuition, skill, and ability to time it right.

September 22 - October 23

October 23 - November 22

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

Friday/Saturday, kick it up a notch; put on the show and it’s a win-win. Venus enhances pleasure and good feedback. Mercury/Uranus keeps the excitement on ready tap or trigger. Still, quit while you are ahead. Monday to Wednesday, aim to get it said, done, or turned around. Tuesday/Wednesday, go deeper; find/tap more. Everything you feel, say, do, or witness is of significant impact.

Aim to make the most of your weekend but also keep open-ended. Venus, freshly into Libra, calls for added flexibility, especially where another is concerned. Late Saturday/ early Sunday fires up something fresh or unexpected. Monday, you’re off to a good start.

Tuesday/Wednesday, cut to the chase; steer the conversation; make your power play.

You could cash in big-time.

November 22 - December 21

December 21 - January 19

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Venus on a social boost and excitement duo Mercury/Uranus set up a high-energy “write home about it” weekend. On a bigger-picture note, whether it’s an evolving reality or an evolving consciousness, this week and next set you onto a major move-along. Saturday/ Sunday and Tuesday through Thursday are especially opportune for hitting it fresh.

Venus, Mars, and Chiron crank up your sensitivity radar. You can’t help but notice a sense of déjà vu or karmic destiny at work.

Saturday/Sunday, Venus, Mars, and Mercury/Uranus put everything in full swing.

Monday to Wednesday, activities and talks are productive. Tuesday/Wednesday, seize advantage; good timing is on your side.

Make a power play; cash in.

January 19 - February 18

PRINCESS

April 19 - May 20

GEMINI

May 20 - June 21

Down 1) Common bait 3) To throw your line in 5) Used to scoop fish out of the water 6) ____ ’em in!

8) Flyfishing location 9) Used to attract fish 10) Rubber pants for deep water 15) Term for fishing equipment 17) ____, line and sinker

PAGE 39

ARIES

March 20 - April 19

Across 2) Lets the bait float 4) Commonly smoked 7) Bull or rainbow 11) Another term for bait 12) Another term for fishing 13) Another word for fishing pole 14) Fishing vessel 16) Winter activity 18) Large body of water

fun

February 18 - March 19

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real estate

PAGE 42

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 18, 2017

A Guide to Buying Residential Properties Jay Brijpaul

brijpaul@carib101.com

Real Estate Buying residential real estate for profit is more of an art. Here is a guide to build wealth in real estate. The following has been tested over time and idguaranteed to work.

The Lever Principle: A leaver is an instrument that is used to lift heavy loads with the least amount of effort. The longer the leaver, the greater the lifting power. Similarly, you can own a large investment with little money. Your assets represent your lever; the more assets you have, the longer your real

estate leaver. Let’s assume that you purchase a property for $100,000 and you invested 10% of your own money. Your initial investment is, therefore, $10,000. If the property increases by 10% in one year, your gain is $10,000. You used a $10,000 lever to control a $100,000 load. In this example, your initial investment doubles! You invest $10,000 and make $10,000.

Concentric Circles: Imagine a pool of water. If you throw a pebble in the center, the first ripple is the highest and subsequent ripples become smaller until they smooth off toward the end. Let’s look at a city the same way. The circle at the center represents the downtown core and the circle toward the end represents the suburbs. Like the rippling effect, there is more activity in the downtown core because of jobs and transportation. For this reason, homes downtown are more expensive than ones in the suburbs. In a good market, homes in the center appreciate faster and in a recession, homes in the outer circle

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depreciate faster. Concentric circle principle also applies to the smaller area where the economic hub repents the center.

Progression and Regression: The principle of progression states that in an upscale neighborhood, the smallest home on the block will increase substantially in value because of the surrounding area. The principle of regression is when the value of the biggest home on the block decreases because of the smaller homes. Buying a home is like a three-level cake. The base is the most valuable part of the cake, it’s the location, then the size and lastly the upgrades. We can always upgrade a larger home but we cannot always expand a smaller home.

Substitution: Imagine two homes, side by side, each with a well. The first owner spent $20,000 to install the well but the next-door neighbor had to dig deeper and his well cost him $30,000. Their costs are different but the value of the homes is the same- both taps

have water. Value is a function of what you get out of a property and not what you put into it. An owner can easily spend thousands of dollars to modernize and if the size did not change, then the function did not change and the value will not change. Most owners upgrade a home because of enjoyment and not because of resale value.

The Water Falls: Think of real estate as a waterfall. When prices are high in one area, the overflow will go to the next area that is lower in price. For example, prices in Mississauga are higher than Brampton and the spillover effect will happen. It is best to invest in good residential homes in the next city where the prices are cheaper. There is more room for growth.

Most people do not plan to fail but they simply fail to plan. When you are buying a property, follow the guide and watch your investment blossom.

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PAGE 44

finance

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Completing Your Financial Needs Analysis Fazaad Bacchus

fazaad@carib101.com

Finance Specialist Too many times I have seen clients who have purchased their insurances without understanding why they have bought it as well as what the policy really is all about. It is not enough to just buy a life insurance policy; you must buy the right type and the right amount. Should you buy a term policy or a permanent policy, well that depends on what your needs are, and here lies the dilemma.

Have you done a Financial Needs Analysis prior to your purchase?

A prime example is someone who buys a mortgage protection policy from a bank. It covers the need where the mortgage may be canceled in the event of the death of

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one of the insured, but is that the right type of policy or are you better off buying a mortgage cancellation from an insurance company? The latter might more suit your needs, especially if you want to keep the coverage after you have paid off the house. In addition, it’s a guaranteed policy with upfront underwriting so you are sure that your beneficiary will receive payments.

If the mortgage insurance is the only one that you have, is it enough if you have children who are still young and are dependent on you for their livelihood? Most likely the answer is no, Financial Needs Analysis requires taking family income loss after the death of a major breadwinner to ensure that the family does not suffer a loss of income. The mortgage may be paid off, but the children will still need food on the table, clothes to wear and some form of recreational money.

If you bought a term policy, it will expire at some time and there is no cash value at the end of the life of the policy, could you be better off if you bought a permanent policy? And what if you cannot afford the permanent premiums in the future; will there

be cash values to carry the policy in a time of distress? There are some permanent policies where you can pay them off in as little as ten years. Some you have to pay for all your life and some pay for a limited time, some that have investment growth and some guaranteed growth, which to buy is not an easy decision.

Should you require a policy that pays upon the first to die or maybe it is better to buy a last to die policy. Both are valid but one is more appropriate depending on your needs. If you need it for a mortgage, definitely it’s a first to die but if you need it for RRSP taxes pay off and the money has been rolled over to a spouse, you may want to consider a last to die. There are many uses for life insurance, if you have capital property that you need to pay capital gains tax on before passing on to your children, you can use a life insurance policy to pay off the tax.

You may also use your insurance to leave a legacy to your church or favorite charity and don’t forget about your grandkids.

However, to effectively plan all of these you should have a Financial Needs Analysis done.

Why Banks Won’t Tell You About Any Alternatives To RESP Andrew Stewart

andrew@carib101.com

Family Advisor Banks won’t tell you about Participating Whole Life Insurance Plans as an alternative to RESP for your child’s education and future.

For over a century, banks were viewed by Canadian families as trusted community partners who provided advice to help manage their financial lives. You walked into your branch, spoke with your manager on what’s best for yours and your family’s future, and they provided you options and services.

For the banks today, It’s All About the Dollars You Have Better Options When my daughter Ciara was born, like all parents, I began looking at ways to save for her education and future. Like everyone else, I believed my only option was the RESP. While banks and RESP companies kept pushing the 20% free money from the government, I looked at the restrictions and fees associated with the RESP and felt it wasn’t the best option for my child’s future.

I spoke with a friend who is a life insurance specialist about my concerns of

opening an RESP for her education, and he said there is another option that’s way better for Ciara than an RESP.

He told me since the branches aren’t allowed to speak about life insurance, wealth management clients are able to be offered both RESP and Participating Whole Life Insurance Plans as a safe and flexible investment for their children’s education and for their life.

RESP vs. Participating Whole Life Plans I asked him what’s the difference between the two and why, as an expert believed Participating Whole Life Plans were a better option. She educated me that; • With RESP, Ciara can only use the government grants if she attends an education program or college approved by the Government of Canada.

• With a Participating Whole Life Plan, she’s free to use the funds in the plan for any college, university or education program around the world, without any restrictions.

• With RESP if Ciara has scholarships or chooses a different path, we have to close the RESP account and return all the government grants we received.

• With a Participating Whole Life Plan, Ciara has the freedom and flexibility to use the funds during her whole life for any financial need or dream, including buying her first home, funding her own company one day if that’s her dream, her future children’s education or for any need during her whole life.

• My RESP accounts will be continuously charged annual account management

•

fees, transfer fees, investment management fees, trading fees if using online trading platforms, withdrawal fees, cancellation fees, mutual fund expense fees and so on…

With a Participating Whole Life Plan, she will receive an annual tax-free dividend for life which is deposited into the cash value account of her plan. Once deposited, there are no more fees being charged to her plan. Also, there are no fees when she’s ready to withdraw from her Participating Whole Life Plan.

When I asked him why bank branch clients are only shown RESPs and not Participating Whole Life Plans he said, bank branches are not allowed to discuss life insurance with clients and “It’s easier to attract parents if we only promote FREE money from the government”.

He further added that Participating Whole Life Plans which have been available and used by parents for over 100 years in Canada are the ONLY plans that Canadian banks don’t have, and as we’ve all recently learned, if the banks don’t have a product of their own to sell you then they won’t tell clients it even exists or where to get it.

I believe one of the biggest and most forgotten aspects of Participating Whole Life Insurance is the intergenerational wealth it creates. It is a rare occurrence that you will become wealthy in your lifetime. But through life insurance, it can affect several generations, with one large influx of capital through their parents or grandparents policy.

PAGE 46

sports

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, October 18, 2017

WI Sweeps Sri Lanka Three - Zip!

TRINIDAD -- The West Indies women completed a 3-0 series sweep of Sri Lanka women in their three-match limited overs series at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba Sunday.

Wonderful batting by Stephanie Taylor and Hayley Matthews took the West Indies to 182 for seven of 45 overs and followed up by excellent bowling performances by Shakera Selman reduced the visitors to 141 all out, giving the host victory by 41 runs.

Taylor spanked 55 and the consistent Matthew 41 to take the West Indies to 182 for seven wickets of 45 overs. The match was reduced to 45 overs per side because of heavy early morning rain.

Set 183 runs, the Sri Lankans were expected to get over the line but not against a determined West Indian bowling unit. Selman put the West Indies immediately on top with a double strike including batting mainstay Chamari Attapatu. At 18 for two the West Indies were well on their way but a stubborn partnership between Yashoda Mendis and Dilani Manodara that took them past the 50-run mark.

Manodara was excellent and even after losing Mendis for 18, she stuck around,

playing well within her limits to keep the scoreboard ticking. She left for 42 towards the end of the innings and they folded for 141 all out.

Earlier, Sri Lanka won the toss and asked the West Indies to take first strike. The local team took their time to go about their innings and was scoreless after two overs. Losing Kycia Knight for five early on also did not help.

Skipper Stephanie Taylor came in and changed the course of the game with her forthright batting. Hayley Matthews took her cue from her and started playing some aggressive shots. Under the gun the Sri Lankans retreated and the two West Indians flourished.

The small crowd on hand greeted every run with cheer and the two dominated.

Sri Lanka needed a spark of inspiration and it came in the form of Siriwardena.

The right arm off-spinner in a magical spell sent back Matthews for 41 and followed up soon after with the wicket of Chadeon Nation.

Matthews faced 75 balls striking four fours.

Siriwardena followed up later by removing the ‘big fish’ Stephanie Taylor for her 29th half century. Taylor made 55 of 85 balls with seven fours, to follow up her unbeaten 60

in the second match.

Sri Lanka fought back gallantly and had the West Indies stuttering on 119 for five before Merissa Aguilleira showed her years of experience by scoring an unbeaten 37 to take them to an eventual 182 for seven of 45 overs.

SCOREBOARD Third ODI Match West Indies vs Sri Lanka Windies innings K Knight b Gunaratne 5 H Matthews b Siriwardena 41 S Taylor b Siriwardena 55 S Nation b Siriwardena 0 D Dottin lbw Ranaweera 11 M Aguilera not out 37 K Knight c Siriwardene b Weerakkody 14 A Peters c & b Karunaratne 0 A Fletcher st Vandort b Ranaweera 3 A Mohammed not out 10 Extras 8 Total for 8 wkts (45ovs) 182 Fall of wkts: 8, 91, 91, 113, 121, 150, 156, 168.

Bowling: S Weerakkody 9-1-51-1, C Gunaratne 9-3-27-1, H Karunaratne 8-0-40-1, I Ranaweera 9-0-24-

2, H Siriwardene 9-1-26-3, A Jayangani 1-0-11-0.

Sri Lanka innings H Hansika lbw Selman 0 Y Mendis c & b Fletcher 18 C Atapattu c Aguilera b Selman 11 D Manadora c & b Matthews 42 R Vandort c Matthews b Taylor 36 G Perera run out 8 S Sririwardene run out 7 H Karunartne b Selman 0 S Weerakkody c Dottin b Taylor 4 I Ranaweera c Knight b Taylor 5 H Gunaratne not out 4 Extras 7 Total all out (40.4) 141 Fall of wkts: 0, 18, 51, 71, 101, 114, 118, 133, 134, 142.

Bowling: S Selman 8-1-32-3, H Matthews 9-327-1, A Fletcher 8-1-26-1, A Mohammed 9-0-27-0, S Taylor 6.4-0-29-3.

Result: Windies won by 41 runs.

West Indies win series 3-0.

- Trinidad Guardian