Helping Hands 092017

VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 15 • WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH 2017

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HELPING HANDS

KABRENA ROBINSON/TORONTO CARIBBEAN In Jamaica, a central and popular belief is that “education is the key to success” and it all starts at the elementary stages of a child’s life. However, with factors such as inadequate resources to facilitate students in educational institutions, the dream of educational fulfillment can be easily deterred.

One organization is fostering a much-needed mandate to improve childhood education across the island.

The Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation seeks to “improve the lives of the next generation of Jamaicans and their communities by creating a world-class education system through investment in infrastructure, resource materials, and exper-

tise”.

On Friday, September 16th the foundation hosted their 12th annual fundraising gala on the grounds of Donalda Club in Toronto. Hosted by CP24 anchor Nathan Downer, the event featured an evening of live auctions, entertainment and fine dining topped with Jamaican cuisine and reggae music in an exquisite island vibe ambiance. The event brought out philanthropists, entrepreneurs and other members of the community in support of the foundation’s continued cause of “building lives through education”.

President of Helping Hands Jamaica, Karl Hale expressed that he is

overwhelmed by the ongoing support the foundation has been receiving from the community over the years.

“I am still to this day amazed at what can be accomplished when we come together with like-minded individuals with a passion to support those in less fortunate positions,” he said.

Helping Hands Jamaica started in 2005 inside the Consul General Office of Anne Marie Bonner after Hale, who was born in Falmouth Jamaica, introduced a concept to support his homeland.

Continued On Page 7

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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Inspiring Women Through Fitness: Jessica Ciampini

Written by Kristina Ramcharran Toronto Caribbean News

Jessica Ciampini is more than just the average young lady in today’s society. Hailing from Toronto’s Jane and Finch community, a community commonly associated with small beginnings and rough times, Ciampini learned the importance of being humble as she grew up.

Most of the inspiration she gained as a young girl sprouted from her father’s words. “My father is a man of few words but he once said that “Jealousy is a sickness of the soul because it eats your spirit up slowly to the point where you don’t recognize who you are” and this stuck with me, as a result, I don’t waste my energy comparing myself to other people-- -whether it’s financially, intellectually or physically.”

Ciampini noted that she channels her energy towards positivity thus resulting in a constant influx of happiness and support into her life. “People don’t realize that while they’re too busy being jealous or hating other people for what they have, life is passing them by. If you let jealousy become the center of your life, it’s almost impossible to achieve your goals because your dominant thoughts are about other people and you begin to think less of yourself.

Her positive mindset then sprouted her journey into starting JC Fitness. JC Fitness is Ciampini’s way of living her clean and healthy lifestyle to the max: by giving other’s the opportunity to live a clean and

healthy lifestyle as well. Ciampini grew into a healthy lifestyle after struggling with weight loss when younger, which eventually sparked an interest in fitness and eating healthy.

She prefers to refer to herself as a coach, rather than a personal trainer because she believes it distinguishes her as an educator, and that’s what’s most important to her. Ciampini explained the breakdown of her job titles and said, “Kinesiologists help individuals cope with physical injuries also work to manage, rehabilitate, and prevent disorders that impede movement. As a fitness coach, I don’t refer myself as a personal trainer because I go beyond expectations, I empower my clients not to look at the physical but rather, how they feel. Feelings are so powerful in all that we do. It’s important I educate them to the future and understand why they’re doing something.”

Apart from pursuing this career path, she also works as a social media/ marketing manager for a company based in Montreal. She hosts a women’s community in North York, and while she is looking to expand her fitness business in Markham, she is also working on starting up a tea business.

In her spare time, she looks forward to her personal time including walks with her dog, as well as the time she uses to help the community, like with her women’s

group and spending evenings at community temples she is involved with. Causes she keeps closest to her heart are Ernstines Women Shelter, a shelter for women who are abused, depressed or alone, and Toronto’s Covenant House.

Ciampini credits much of her success to her various role models. In this shout out to them she noted each of them added a new kind of value and change to her life. “My role models in my life are the women I have in my life, who I gained during the hardest times in my life. If you’re reading this, then I’m assuming that you’re either getting ready to cry or you’re wondering when the hell you’ve inspired me.

You women inspire me to become a better version of myself, to stand up for what is morally right and to protect ourselves just as I protected myself from growing up but exposed to the dangerous life out there.”

After overcoming many challenges like sickness and depression, Jessica Ciampini is just at the start of building her empire of inspiring others through healthy lifestyle choices. Her advice to other women who are also making their dreams come true is, “don’t be afraid to fail, you will only fail if you don’t even try. Be yourself even when you have had the hard times of suffering or maybe you haven’t fit in just yet. Embrace the journey because that makes YOU unique!”

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Wednesday, September 20, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

PAGE 3

The United Achievers 33rd Annual Scholarship & Recognition Awards Night Ashelly Smith

ashelly@carib101.com

TC Reporter “Have you ever reached the rainbow’s end and did you find your pot of gold? Ever catch a shooting star tell me how high did you soar?”

The scholarship recipients from the United Achievers Club, may not be able to answer the above line verse by Fantasia’s song ‘I Believe’ yet but they will surely be able to do so. On September 16th, 2017, sixteen students received scholarship awards to assist with their post-secondary tuition.

They are as follows: Dana-Kaye Matthews, Mikaelia Miller, Candace Newell, Arinze Ochuba, Mary Osei, Maya Simon, Jenae Downes, Ronaldo Duke, Kareem Elliot, Victoria Ezekwemba, Kayla Goodbridge, Taylor Bogle, Rya Buckey, Victoria De Freitas, Zoe Lopez and Danell Wright.

At 6 pm at the Courtyard Marriott Hotel, was the cocktail session. This session was a social and networking hour while drinking a glass of wine and listening to smooth music. All the guests wait-

ed in a queue to be seated accordingly. Soon, everyone was seated and were ready for the introduction of the Emcee, Jesse Jones.

‘Your Passion Can Be Your Life’s Work’

Those are the words Jones lives by. He is an innovator, brand builder, speaker, and influencer. He has made it his mission to help others tap into their own passions and actualize their dreams through their careers. Jones began to welcome special guests such as Peel Regional Police Chief, Jennifer Evans and the Mayor of Brampton, Linda Jeffrey.

Chief Jennifer Evans gave a few words to the scholarship recipients:

“I wish you all the best, take your time and have fun. Sometimes you get lost in your studies and forget to have fun.”

I agree. As the popular proverb says, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.”

At last, it was the moment everyone was waiting for – dinner. The Caribbean jerk chicken was the Talk of the Town. It was just the right taste, at a minimum, the spicing included scotch bonnet pepper, and other spices. It wasn’t too spicy which was good because a lot of people would not be able to consume spicy dishes. The chicken had a hint of sweetness and was decorated with sprinkles of thyme. The chicken coconut soup was fairly good, a few guests commented that it was a bit too salty but nevertheless it was a tasty meal. Also, on the menu was Rockfish with a fresh black bean and mango salsa. Guests could have their meals with rice and beans or seasonal vegetable medley. Des-

sert was also another thing that guests went crazy for, it was all done in a split of a second. Apple pie, black forest cake, fresh fruits & berries were on the dessert menu.

Later, there was a cello performance by one of the recipients, Ronaldo Duke. His performance was sentimental as he performed ‘It Will Rain’ by Bruno Mars. The introduction of the keynote speaker was done by Majorie Taylor, a past president of the United Achievers Club. The speaker was Dr. Everton Gooden, Chief of Otolaryngology/ Head and Neck Surgery at North York General Hospital. He is also an Assistant Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto. Everton began his career at North York General Hospital in 2001. He recently received the 2017 Harry Jerome Trailblazer Award according to his biography in the scholarship’s program.

In his presentation, he mentioned that he struggled academically. He wasn’t getting the A’s or B’s, he was a below average student. But he didn’t let that hinder him from aspiring for greater achievements. He says: “As long as you continue to work hard, maintain your determination and commitment anything is truly possible.”

Gooden has followed through with his statement to be where he is at today. He said there were bad days and a lot of obstacles in his way but he continued to persevere until he became successful.

Finally, it was the presentation of the 2017 scholarship recipients by Kathy Mcdonald

and Lucinda Sloley. I spoke with one of the recipients, Maya Simmons about how she felt receiving this award:

“After receiving my award, I felt proud.

Proud to be a part of a group of young black people that have all the potential to change the world.”

When I asked her what significantly did she do to receive this scholarship she later shared: “For me, I believed that it was my volunteer work that stood out the most. I really like to focus on giving back to my school community to prepare younger kids for big changes in life such as high school. I go back to my elementary school twice a year to talk with the grade eight students about the transition into high school. I also volunteer a lot within the black community through events such as Afro Fest.”

Maya is eighteen years old who is a graduate of St. Thomas Aquinas High School. She is enrolled in the Media Info and Techno-Culture program at Western University.

Soon, the night was over with a splendid performance by Canadian singer Liberty Silver.

The United Achievers Club of Brampton is a non-profit organization established in 1980.

For thirty-three years, the United Achievers’ and its partners have assisted approximately 370 students in their quest for higher education.

I’m proud to say, I was a past recipient in 2014 whose life this organization has touched. It was an amazing night and hopefully next year you will be there!

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Wednesday, September 20, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Jamaican Diaspora Presents New Crime Prevention Strategies At Conference Jelani Grant

jelani@carib101.com

TC Reporter On the Canadian Travel Advice and Advisories website, it is recommended that travelers exercise a high degree of caution when traveling to Jamaica. The advisory describes armed robbery, gang-related violence, and sexual assaults as the leading cause for this warning.

This year, delegates came together to present strategies that can tackle one of the country’s most challenging issues. As the last presentation of day one, the future of crime management forum attracted a full room of Jamaican Diaspora.

Minister of National Security Robert Montague, head of Diaspora Crime Intervention and Prevention Task Force Dr. Rupert Francis, and Former Senior Superintendent of UK Metropolitan Police Dr. Leroy Logan formed the crime prevention panel, with the University of the West Indies Professor Anthony Harriott as mediator.

Dr. Logan announced that he is working with Fight For Peace, supporting youth affected by violence, in both Jamaica and the UK. Dr. Logan is also the chair of the Black Police Association Charitable Trust.

The panel of crime prevention specialists was given a maximum of ten minutes to deliver their strategies, however, Minister Montague used approximately an hour and a half to ensure his entire presentation was explained thoroughly. Though the following day, some of the diasporas would criticize the time he took, the facts and strategies he proposed were not to be taken lightly. “The Minister made some very critical, important points, and he did so in a humorous way but the points shouldn’t be lost on us”, said Professor Harriott.

Dr. Francis appeared in agreement as he began his presentation by saying, “As a member of the Diaspora, we appreciate everything that you have said and in the manner that you said it”.

Some of the points Minister Montague discussed were crime statistics that, from January to June of last year, showed sexual assaults, aggravated assault, break and entry, larceny, and robberies have gone down since last year while shootings and murder have risen by

20%. “No matter what else is going down, as long as murder is going up, crime is going up”, he said.

Overall, the Minister said crime has decreased by 5% from January to June of 2017, but until murder rates go down the perception will be that crime is on the rise.

“In the last week, we discovered fifteen weapons, including seven high-powered rifles”, he said, referring to the week before the conference.

Montague announced that in July they captured two of Jamaica’s most wanted criminals and law enforcement has seen an increase in the takedown of weapons.

Montague told the crowd that on the 800 km coastline stretch there are fourteen formal points of entry, but he noted that a recent survey revealed there are at least 145 illegal points of entry. The Minister pointed to this as one of the greatest challenges for keeping illegal imports out of the country.

U.K. delegate Beverly Johnson who specializes in logistics asked the panel when the footpaths off the coast would be removed, in order to reduce the trafficking of drugs and guns.

Montague responded by saying the Ministry of National Security is currently working on a new system for better monitoring of the coasts.

“Unfortunately, a lot of our citizens are feeling frightened, helpless and powerless in the face of crime”, said Montague. “I would like to inform you that the majority of crimes committed are targeted, not random, therefore if we unite as a people, we can overcome what confronts us”.

Though he said Minister Montague covered a number of his points, Dr. Francis noted that the crime in Jamaica is currently impacting all people of Jamaican descent. “It’s not just the stakeholders who are involved in reducing crime, assisting people in crime like the police force and army…but it’s you and me. We are here, right now we must embrace this issue of crime as one nation”, he said.

With limited time, Dr. Francis reminded delegates they are working diligently to improve crime management, but that every citizen has a choice to help them by reporting on crimes.

Minister Montague also had a list of suggestions for civilians to do their part in fighting crime. One suggestion included the Stay Alert app on Google Play, which offers a number of features including sending anonymous reports to police, Panic Mode which alerts police to an emergency or receiving important information concerning their safety.

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Wednesday, September 20, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

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Toronto All Stars Steel Orchestra Brings Home The Gold!

Alyssa Mahadeo

alyssa@carib101.com

TC Reporter Steelpan or Steel drums is a musical instrument originating from the Island of Trinidad and Tobago. It is made from large 55-gallon industrial steel drums and it’s unique highpitched tinkling sounds when struck is a clear and beautiful sound that transports its listeners straight to a beach in the Caribbean Sea. Steel pan has been around for generations, and it is an instrument that is as diverse as the land it comes from.

The Toronto All Stars Steel Orchestra, formally known as TASSO is a local steel pan band established in 2000. It was founded

by Salmon Cupid, Musical Director for TASSO and a group of parents who wanted to allow their children to continue to play pan postelementary school into middle and high school Parents agreed it would be in the best interests of the children if they could come together once a once a week to practice steel pan under the tutelage of Salmon Cupid, to foster and further develop their love of playing pan.

Their group is comprised of a band of students who are between the ages of 11 - 23 starting in Gr. 6 all the way to university. Their fierce love of pan is what bonds them together and they all come from different backgrounds each with a unique story to share about what they enjoy most about Steel Pan.

Not long after the band came together, Cupid began entering them into local competitions to test the band’s skill competitively, gain a reputation for themselves in the industry and also potentially get them some exposure to book more concerts in the community.

In 2004, they entered into their first competition on an international stage. The band traveled to compete in Scotland. They

aced their audition and were invited to play in the Aberdeen International Music Festival.

Every other year after that they have participated in international festivals and competitions all over the world.

“I always like to set the bar one step higher every time,” Cupid shares. “After winning ten consecutive years at music festivals locally I decided to up the ante a bit and put them into harder competitions to develop their sound and put them on a higher level of music.”

The world stage is a different level of competition where you get people from all across the globe with a wide spectrum music from different genres. When people hear about steel pan, they immediately think about Calypso music. But Salmon Cupid’s approach to the sound doesn’t just focus on what it’s known for, and is always looking to take pan more mainstream.

“We don’t only play calypso, we play classical and contemporary pieces as well changing up the rhythm and the beat,” Cupid says. Because the band is young, it’s important to keep things interesting, practicing out of the box style pieces that incorporate a more mainstream and modern sound that is better received by their audiences.

“I try to stay away from the Calypso, that is something people are accustomed to,” Cupid explains. “Young people are really interested in new music, Top 40 tunes you wouldn’t normally hear played on that instrument and I would much rather arrange a contemporary song on a Calypso beat.”

The versatility of a steel pan is always a surprise to audiences that hear TASSO play, and it is refreshing to hear something that doesn’t only sound like Calypso. “I don’t want people to keep thinking that steel pan is limited to a certain genre of music,” Cupid explains.

This July TASSO had the privilege of playing on one of their biggest international stages to date, the highly esteemed Sydney Opera Hall, in Australia. Described as the eighth wonder of the world, the Sydney Opera House is one of the 20th Century’s most spectacular architectural triumphs. It is Australia’s greatest performing arts center and one of their leading

tourist attractions. The Concert Hall, with its high vaulted ceiling, has a seating capacity of up to 2,680 and a maximum stage area of 224 square meters.

Fifty-seven orchestra’s and bands from all over the world went to compete, each country bringing their own flavor and culture to the stage, while Canada let their multiculturalism shine through the sounds of the steel pan. The band was in the spotlight throughout the competition, and they received much praise and recognition from the other performers.

“We were a bit nervous going into the experience, as this group that went was a bit younger than we were used to taking internationally,” Cupid shares.

Each band had twenty minutes of music to present which is then scored accordingly in that category. The group played a selection of pieces that included a mix that demonstrated their wide range and versatility including a version of Phantom of the Opera. On the day of the closing ceremony, the results were announced and TASSO won Gold in their category. It was a momentous and highly celebrated achievement for the group. On this trip, they were fortunate as well to gain sponsorships for their uniforms from Redwood Carpentry and CIBC VISA providing each band member with an Air Canada Conversion Visa Card to cover all of their meal expenses.

In 2007 exactly tem years ago the band had competed in that same competition and won Gold. They were not expecting it this time but were overjoyed to hear their band called as winners again this time.

“I don’t see myself as a stereotypical person, I look at the void and I try to fill it, I’m the guy who would take steel pan to the moon,” Cupid says explaining that his band will continue to keep differentiating themselves, and developing their sound to stand out above all the rest. “These kids always put so much hard work and dedication into their practice, they rise to the challenge and always give it their best. I’m always looking for new ways to critique them, to show them that they can always be better, and they continue to surprise me every step of the way.”

A Helping Hand to Childhood Education in Jamaica Kabrena Robinson

kabrena@carib101.com

TC Reporter Continued From Page 1 -- In 2009, the foundation partnered with Samantha Mahfood, executive director of Food For the Poor, to build schools in mostly under-resourced communities in Jamaica. Helping Hands has managed to build eighteen schools across the island, now partnering with notable Canadian groups such as MLSE, Sunwing, and Kisko. This year, the foundation was successfully able to build five elementary schools in the parishes of Portland, Hanover, St Ann and St James with the donations accumulated from their fundraising events.

Since its inception, the foundation has seen tremendous upward mobility, progressing from raising only $15,000 at its inaugural gala in 2005 to raising over $100,000 presently. The funds collected from the gala assist the organization in building schools in

Jamaica each year. The foundation also supports and partners with foundations in Jamaica such as the Oracabessa Foundation and Breds, groups with the shared goal of improving the lives of youths in small underdeveloped communities.

The average cost for building a school in Jamaica is $60,000. At this year’s gala, Helping Hands Jamaica’s main aim was to accomplish that goal.

“If we think about how much we have and how much we spend on so many different things for our own pleasure and how we can really impact lives through this foundation I want people to actually consider how much they can give back” said Mark Josephs a member on the board of the Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation and president of Kisko Products, a family business, owning Kisko Freezies and the Mr. Freeze brand.

The highlight of the evening was the live auction that featured a variety of prizes and packages valued at over $40,000. Among the top valued was a seven day stay for twelve guests in the private Karma Bay Villa at the exclusive Tryall Club in Hanover Jamaica valued at $25,000 and auctioned off for $13,500.

Other prizes included a his and her watch set from the Bulova diamond collection; an allexpense paid trip to Jamaica for a five night stay at Iberostar in Montego Bay; a week

stay at the Point Of View Villa located at the world’s Famous Blue Lagoon in Port Antonio, Jamaica; a dinner for six catered in the comfort of your own home by renowned chef Selwyn Richards and a Rogers Cup suite all sold with the minimum cost being $900.

Consul General of Jamaica Lloyd Wills was one of the supporters in attendance at the gala. In his address to attendees, he expressed his gratitude on behalf of the Jamaican government to the foundation and its continued and relentless contributions to the growth and development of basic education in Jamaica.

“Jamaican companies for a long time have been searching for a formula to cross over. Helping Hands has crossed over, they have managed to get everyone on board and it is an absolute phenomenon, something we should celebrate when one of ours manages to achieve it and with such constant ease,” he said.

“Helping Heads continues to serve an absolute phenomenal purpose, our kids are basking in the glory of their gift and the Jamaican government is absolutely grateful.”

Helping Hands Jamaica hopes to build more schools in the coming years to continue with their initiative of giving children in Jamaica a brighter future through education.

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local news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Caribbean Tales International Film Festival 2017 Leanne Benn

leanne@carib101.com

TC Reporter

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

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This year, the Caribbean Tales International Film Festival celebrated twelve years through the act of diversity and legacy in the city of Toronto, bringing Caribbean flair and spice to the streets of Little Italy near the historic Royal Cinema on College Street. It was an evening and night filled with delicious food, lively steel-pan music, celebrities, Caribbean cinema and buttery popcorn.

The CTFF gala launch took place on September 6 at the Capitol Trattoria Pizzeria, where a portion of the street was closed off to make room for a street island party. The night was epic and when you think of the words ‘epic— Caribbean—Soca— performer’ there is only one person that should come to mind: Caribbean music superstar Machel Montano.

This VIP gala was held to host the King of Soca’s documentary premiere —Machel Montano: Journey of a Soca King by Bart Phillips (Trinidad and Tobago, 2017, 77 minutes)

Songs like Too Young To Soca and Big Truck might ring a bell if you have followed the journey of this musical sensation from his initial start in Trinidad and Tobago.

The opening gala also welcomed Soca Queen, Alison Hinds, actor Joseph Marcell (from Fresh Prince), Sheldon Shepard and the honorable Jean Augustine. The evening also featured appearances by the acting consulate general of Trinidad and Tobago to honor Machel Montano’s contribution not just to Trinidad but to the

entire Caribbean community.

Machel Montano’s music is a fusion of Caribbean history that transcends our struggles as island people in order to showcase the spirit, fun, dedication and hard work it takes to make our lives comfortable.

The executive director of CTFF, Frances-Anne Solomon, put a lot of thought into the layout of this year’s film festival in order to properly reflect the theme of legacy.

Films from all over the Caribbean and the corresponding filmmakers had a chance to make an international debut to a Canadian audience.

As Solomon said, “It was hard to pick this year’s program, but those we’ve chosen will not only entertain, they will also challenge our audiences to consider our legacy as Caribbean peoples here and throughout our diaspora. We need to think about what we’re leaving now for future generations.”

This year, the festival featured fourteen feature films and thirty short films from eighteen different countries across the Caribbean.

This mass appeal to the Caribbean public offered a chance for expressive and creative freedom as actors and directors made their debut while some returned to share their talents. Just like the opening documentary by Machel Montano, the festival boasted eleven powerful documentaries in total, offering a range of different genres for various film enthusiasts.

Some powerful documentaries included The Roots of Culture night on September 14th which featured two documentaries including: Sorf Hair by Shari Petti (Trinidad and Tobago, 2017, 24 minutes) exploring how natural hair is perceived in Trinidad and Tobago and across the Caribbean and Pimento and Hot Pepper-The Mento Story by Rick Elgood (Jamaica ,2015, 59 minutes) that explored the roots of Jamaican music and dance which was called: Mento.

There was so much variety from the

2017 CTFF that it covered almost every aspect of film, from action to comedy and romance.

Each night of the film festival since its opening featured a different theme and showing of approximately two feature films and two shorts.

Legacies of Race, Legacies of the Land, Legacies of Identity, and Twisted Legacies were all some examples of overall explorations. On September 15th, the films offered explored action, drama, and identity. The Check by Richard B. Pierre (Canada, 2016, 6 minutes) covered the issues of humans, technology and discovering our true self. Shoot The Girl by Natalie Thompson (Jamaica, 2016, 11 minutes) was an action-packed short about urban survival skills.

The feature presentation that night was Cutlass

by Darisha J. Beresford (USA/ Trinidad and Tobago, 2016, 97 minutes) which was a drama that included kidnapping, mental strength, and internal freedom, this film was also inspired by a true story.

The evening continued with a second round of showings including the world premiere of Shashamane by Giulia Amati (Barbados/ Italy /Ethiopia/ Jamaica/ UK, 2016, 80 minutes). This film explored Jamaican and African heritage from the Caribbean to the country of Ethiopia, in search of lost identity and Ethiopian Emperor, Haile Selassie. Movies like this truly covered the theme of identity that many people from various diasporas struggle with.

The CTFF 2017 was a delightful exploration of Caribbean culture and identity and helped add the warmth of island culture to the streets of Toronto. The lead sponsor this year was FLOW and other sponsors and partners included: Telefilm Canada, ACP, The Royal, Film Jamaica, Toronto Black Film Festival, One Caribbean Media, NOW Magazine and others. For more information and for your chance to see some fresh and amazing films next year, check out caribbeantalesfestival.com

A-Supreme Foundation Prepares To Host Gala In Support Of Seniors Kabrena Robinson

kabrena@carib101.com

TC Reporter A-Supreme Foundation, a charitable organization aimed at providing care and support to vulnerable and low-income seniors unable to afford adequate home care, has announced the hosting of their third annual “A New Era of Care” Grand Gala.

The Gala is set for Saturday, October 7th inside the International Plaza Hotel in Toronto. The evening will commence with a VIP reception at 5:30 p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m.

Recently, the foundation launched a major campaign called the Gold Circle Campaign aimed at helping more qualified seniors to access its subsidized in-home care program. With that goal, they hope to provide 500 qualified seniors in the GTA with the necessary in-home care service by the end of 2017. Proceeds from the gala will go towards supporting the campaign.

According to organizers, the gala is an effort to “benefit and further improve the organization’s critical contributions to pro-

viding subsidized home care for seniors in need”. It is also an avenue to spread awareness on the necessity and importance of senior care.

“As a foundation dedicated to improving the quality of life for seniors through education, advocacy and subsidized in-home care, this special event is a great opportunity for others to join us in our work while enjoying a fun, collaborative evening out,” states Keisha Johnson, President of A-Supreme Foundation in a press release.

This year’s gala, hosted in collaboration with the Jamaica 55 Independence Canada Committee under the auspices Her Excellency Janice Miller, High Commissioner of Jamaica to Canada, is set to be hosted by Itah Sadu, distinguished storyteller, and children’s author. The main feature and key-note speaker of the gala will be The Most Honourable Juliet Holness, wife of Jamaica’s current Prime Minister Andrew Holness.

Along with the anticipated appearances from prominent speakers topped with an evening of live entertainment, various notable individuals and organizations within the community will be awarded the Foundation’s Diamond Citizen Award for their contributions and advocacy toward improving the lives of people within their respective communities across Canada and Jamaica.

Among those to be awarded are, The Carpenter’s Union, an organization that represents over 25,000 blue collar workers

in Ontario; The Jamaica National Group, Jamaica’s first mutually-owned global business serving Jamaicans at home and in the diaspora; Marcia Brown founder of the Trust 15 Youth Community Support Organization, Patrick Shaw of the Falstaff Community Centre and Linden Dryden founder of Liberty for Youth.

Nadine Spencer, CEO of BrandEQ Agency and the first president of A-Supreme Foundation says that all awardees have contributed greatly to their various communities here in Canada and are highly regarded as reputable champions for their specific cause.

“The gala is really a way to receive in terms of people coming and giving but it’s also a way of the organization to give back by recognizing the individuals in our community that have really served and have stepped up to the plate and have given the time and resources,” she said in an interview.

Spencer added that she hopes everyone attending will take back from the occasion a very important message.

“I want us to all recognize as a community that we are all getting there in terms of age and we need to create a path and a standard of excellence that’s going to be our bed when we get there and so we really have to support initiatives that are laying that foundation for excellence in senior care,” she said.

Tickets for the Gala can be purchased online at Eventbrite for $100 or $200 for VIP.

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island news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Kamla Not Apologising to A&V Oil & Gas

TRINIDAD -- Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s attorneys have told attorneys for A&V Oil and Gas that she will not be intimated or scared into silence and that A&V’s claim is ill-founded, baseless in law and doomed to fail.

In a release Monday, Persad-Bissessar said she had been advised by attorney Douglas Bayley, of Freedom Law Chambers, that as Opposition Leader she is free to comment on “all aspects of governance, including the performance and transparency and accountability of state-owned enterprises,” since this is “constitutionally protected and vital to the democracy.”

In a pre-action protocol letter last week, A&V had requested an apology and retraction from Persad-Bissessar and an undertaking that she would not publish or republish any defamatory words.

But Persad-Bissessar’s attorneys added that the internal audit report into the fake oil fiasco was covered by qualified privilege and having been provided with a copy of the report from a reliable source, Persad-Bissessar felt duty bound to disclose it to the public.

The attorneys said Petrotrin had

in fact confirmed that the audit report was authentic and to date there had been no retraction from Petrotrin to the audit report, which detailed an unexplained discrepancy in the recorded volumes that saw Petrotrin allegedly paying close to TT$80 million for oil it never received.

Persad-Bissessar’s attorneys said “there can be no claim for defamation in the face of the truth,” adding A&V have “no right in law to protect a fake and false corporate image, reputation and character.”

They also pointed to the friendship between A&V CEO Nazim Baksh and Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley, which the PM has admitted to in the public domain, the advertisement in which Baksh congratulates Rowley and his Government on its good performance and the fact that Baksh’s daughter is a government Senator under the People’s National Movement Government.

In this scenario, Persad-Bissessar’s attorneys said the public would have a right to enquire and to know if there were any suggestions of wrong doing on the part of A&V in relation to Petrotrin and the performance of their contractual duties.

- Trinidad Guardian

Annisette: Minister at Fault for Ferry Fiasco

TRINIDAD -- Works and Transport Minister Rohan Sinanan bears the blame for recent chaos caused by the Super Fast Galicia ferry’s exit from the Tobago sea bridge, says Seamen and Waterfront Workers’ Trade Union president Michael Annisette.

“The vessel left under your watch—you should be man enough to take responsibility for the chaos. You can’t allow a vessel to leave T&T without having another in place and become forced to get another at any cost!” Annisette added Monday.

Answering queries from the Joint Select Committee examining the ferry service at the Parliament building in Port-ofSpain, Annisette also said it’s unheard of for a Port Authority of T&T (PATT) board member to negotiate for a vessel, as PATT deputy chairman Adrian Beharry said he did for the “Atlantic Provider” and “Trinity Transporter” barge.

“I was shocked he said so. Questions must be asked who owns the barge and what’s the relationship with the negotiator of the contract?” Annisette said.

The Atlantic Provider and Trinity Transporter vessel were also hired under Sinanan’s watch.

Annisette said the Super Fast Galicia went through the normal procurement process. But concerning the current ferry issues, he said a probe should be done on how T&T had signed a charter party agreement for a vessel not yet in territorial waters and without having done sea trials.

Annisette questioned why one of the recent vessels was a roll-on/roll-off vessel when the PATT needed a passenger vessel.

“This raises red flags. But this was calculated for this result,” he said.

He said he and SWWTU executive spoke to Sinanan, warning him of the consequences, including of not signing the charter party agreement. But he said Sinanan told them “nobody was holding this Government to ransom.”

Until someone explained why the agreement wasn’t signed, Annisette concluded it was Sinanan’s fault. He also revealed that four months before the PATT hired the Atlantic Provider, international shippers had told him the vessel was coming,”but we were operating a vessel we knew couldn’t carry passengers.”

Annisette noted that Sinanan had said there’d be no barge.

“But a certain Port board member was walking around with information on the barge in his computer,” he told the members.

Annisette said he’d expressed his concerns to another minister he knows personally and also someone who “had the Prime Minister’s ear.” But Annisette said he felt nobody listened since he was perceived as a dock worker from the “University of Docksford and not part of the elite.”

He added the MF Panorama would have tendered to return to work locally if given the opportunity to do so.

JSC member Franklin Khan said PATT performance indicators are below international standard and the sea bridge was “disastrous.”

Annisette also denied allegations of sexual advances regarding female employees of an SWWTU-run company providing services on ferries. He said similar allegations had been sent to former Tobago House of Assembly leader Orville London, who subsequently apologised to him when the matter was examined.

- Trinidad Guardian

Wednesday, September 20, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Chance Robbed at Beetham Landfill

TRINIDAD -- Vision on Mission founder Wayne Chance is calling for adequate security at the Beetham Landfill after he was robbed there on Sunday morning.

Chance was robbed of his gold chain by a man after he went to the site with several former prisoners to dump garbage. However, several scavengers who were there, saw the incident and realised it was Chance, later managed to apprehend the suspect and retrieve the chain.

In an interview Monday, Chance said when he entered the landfill’s gate there were police and security guard present. However, he and his group were soon approached by a group of men armed with various objects as they prepared to offload garbage.

“Some of the men were young and the oldest must be 21 start asking my men who they were and where they from so they could rob them. By the time I say that, a man come with a cutlass, one with a chooker and some had pieces of iron and one of them hold the cutlass to my neck,” he said.

Chance said one of the men then grabbed a small gold his chain from neck and “walked away casually.”

“My men became frantic and was going and get back my stuff and I told them to desist. The men from the dump recognise me and hold the man,” he said.

He said the suspect was later apologetic and said he made a living going to the landfill daily and making a hustle.

“Anybody is exposed to this situation and they robbing people. I was fortunate that they know me. Other people say it was a frequent situation and just drop their rubbish on the side there,” he said, adding that when he went back to the front gate there were neither police nor security

there.

Saying he was disturbed by the incident, Chance said the Solid Waste Management Company Limited (SWMCOL) should be more responsible with security for the site.

“People just coming across the road who have no business other than robbing people there,” he said.

He said although the man held a cutlass to his neck the robbery was “petty,” but admitted it had a psychological effect on him.

“Whole night I reflecting on it.

They could shoot you and they could rob you while you throwing out rubbish. It was not even money, but rubbish,” he said.

Contacted Monday, SWMCOL CEO Ronald Roach said the matter was reported to them and the stolen item (chain) was recovered.

“We have met with Mr Chance who is assisting us in the investigations.

SWMCOL employs both private security services as well as the police services to ensure the safety and well being of users of its sites. However, isolated incidents such as this one sometimes still do occur,” Roach said.

He said site users are reminded to exercise caution and to immediately report to the security services on site any incident or suspicious activity.

SWMCOL security advisor Nigel Sampson said security at the site had improved and promised such incidents would not occur again.

Also contacted Monday, Industrial General and Sanitation Workers Union (IGSWU) president Robert Benacia expressed his concern and said it was an unfortunate event.

- Trinidad Guardian

Firm Apologises for Attack, Invites Media to Tour

TRINIDAD -- Days after two separate attacks on media personnel from two of the country’s major media groups Guardian Media Limited and One Caribbean Media Limited, A&V Oil and Gas Limited managing director Nazim Haniff Baksh has issued an apology and is acknowledging the company has “an obligation” to co-operate with the “media, to facilitate and provide to the media and to the public, information in respect of the allegations levelled against it.”

But in a signed statement Monday, Baksh, who has publicly admitted to the attack on Guardian photographer Kristian de Silva, is insisting members of the media entered the company’s San Francique, Penal, property “without its permission.”

De Silva sustained physical injuries and his camera was broken during an attack by two men on Friday.

OCM’s Phil Britton, a cameraman with CCN TV6, was also attacked when he visited the compound last week. A beer bottle was thrown at his car, breaking the glass on one of the windows.

A statement signed by Baksh and attorney Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj Monday extended “apologies to members of the media and in particular members of the media who were involved in the incident.”

The company said having received legal advice and “notwithstanding the strict legal rights which exist for the enjoyment of one’s property,” it “tenders its apologies

and accepts it has an obligation in this matter to co-operate with the media to facilitate and provide to the media and to the public, information in respect of the allegations levelled against it.”

In a clear about turn to the hostile stance adopted last week to get media off his property, Baksh is now inviting media personnel to a one and a half hour tour with company officials on Thursday, at which time they will provide “relevant information” on their operations.

The now media-friendly company is also saying it will host a press conference on or before Saturday, where its attorneys, “together with an official with technical knowledge,” would answer questions.

A&V Oil and Gas is now the subject of an investigation following allegations it was overpaid to the tune of US$11 million for gas which was not supplied to state-owned Petrotrin.

The statement from the company said “the public therefore has a vested right to know the relevant facts and to make its assessment in respect of those allegations.”

The allegations were first made public by Opposition leader Kamla PersadBissessar two Sundays ago at a UNC meeting in Couva. A&V has since sent pre-action protocol letters to both PersadBissessar and Petrotrin.

- Trinidad Guardian

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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, September 20, 2017

CoI Knocks Hicken, Says he is Part of “Unprofessional Wrangling”

GUYANA -- Assistant Police Commissioner and head of operations, Clifton Hicken, is said to be “part of the unprofessional wrangling that is taking place among some of the senior officers of the Guyana Police Force and which had led to some degree of polarisation,” the report of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the alleged plot to assassinate President David Granger has concluded.

The commission has recommended disciplinary action against Hicken for a series of alleged infractions, including failing to follow established policing procedures pertaining to the investigation into the plot.

In the report submitted to President David Granger a few weeks ago, the Paul Slowe-led commission said Hicken should be disciplined for neglecting to ensure that a record of Andriff Gillard’s allegation of the plan to assassinate the President was made in the relevant station records within ‘A’ Division. Hicken during his testimony before the commission said he had received a call from Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum requesting that Gillard be escorted to CID headquarters from the Ministry of Public Security on March 29.

He said he immediately sent Divisional Detective Michael Kingston to collect Gillard and take him to his (Hicken’s) office. When Gillard arrived, Hicken only verified that he was the person to whom Blanhum had referred and sent him to CID

GUYANA -- CITY businessman, Yussuf Sankar, died in an early morning fire which destroyed his home and place of business at Main Street, Georgetown on Monday.

When the Guyana Chronicle arrived on scene the fire had already destroyed the wooden building, which housed Risan’s Photography Centre and Jarrod’s Graphics Designs. The man reportedly lived there with a female relative and his sons.

One of Sankar’s sons, Riyad Sankar told members of the media that he had just escorted his brother Jarrod to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) and was on his way back when he received

GUYANA -- Following reports that several aircraft have been seen landing at an illegal airstrip near Parabara in the South Rupununi, a law-enforcement team has been dispatched to the area to carry out an investigation.

According to reports from the area, on several occasions in recent months, aircraft were seen circling and later landing in the Parabara savannah, south of Lumid Pau. Region Nine Chairman Bryan Allicock, confirmed on Monday that a team which included Guyana Defence Force (GDF) ranks travelled to the location on Friday to investigate the reports. He said that the team was expected to return to Lethem on Wednesday. “We got messages from the area that aircraft were seen overflying there,” Allicock said.

An aviation source confirmed that there have been several reports of aircraft landing near Parabara and re-

with Kingston.

Hicken did not interview Gillard, who alleged that he was offered $7M to kill President Granger sometime in June 2015 by Nizam Khan. The accuser contended that he asked Khan to borrow $6M, but instead was offered $7M once he agreed to kill the President. He refused but reported the matter to the police only in March, 2017.

But Hicken’s failure to interview Gillard was questioned by Slowe, who had asked him why he did not question Gillard.

“It was not for me to get involve [sic] in matters involving CID,” responded Hicken during his testimony. He said he contacted substantive police commissioner Seelall Persaud on the matter and he too told him to have Gillard sent to CID immediately for questioning. “I confirmed the name of the man and forwarded him to CID headquarters,” said Hicken, who currently serves as assistant commissioner, operations. This response did not find favour with Slowe, a retired assistant commissioner who said, “I am not accepting that!” “Won’t you have been interested to know what is the story?” he continued. But Hicken maintained that he did what was required of him.

He said it was necessary for him to ensure it was the right individual being escorted to CID. “Chief, you have to confirm these things…if it was the wrong person, I would have been in the hot water

by now,” said Hicken, who made it clear he had no intention to tarnish the investigation. “I just didn’t want to get involve [sic].”

“Nobody wanted to get involve [sic]…that is quite clear and based on what you have said so far…you chose not to ask the man any questions,” concluded the commissioner, who noted “that is neglect, that is dereliction of duty.” In his report to President Granger, Slowe made it clear that Hicken should be “disciplined for his failure to interview Gillard to ascertain the nature of the allegation.”

“This is a clear neglect by him,” the report stated. Slowe also recommended that Hicken be disciplined for reporting the allegation to Persaud, who at the time was on annualised vacation leave. “This conduct is prejudicial to good order or discipline,” he stated in his report, while adding that the former Commander ‘A’ Division be disciplined for failing to report the said allegation to Assistant Commissioner David Ramnarine, who was acting as police commissioner then.

Meanwhile, Hicken had also said that as far as he is aware, the matter had not been recorded in his Division and noted that he acted upon instructions. His response caused him to bump heads with Slowe who questioned, “That is a commanderlevel perspective?” to which Hicken replied, “You are harping on the commander

Businessman Perishes in Main St Fire

a call around 06:00hrs from someone who said that the building was on fire.

Riyad said when he arrived on scene it was raining but the place was completely engulfed with the blaze and firefighters were working to contain the spread. Neighbours, including the staff of the Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo’s residence, started to take precautionary measures so that the fire would not affect the buildings.

During a live interview with journalist, Enrico Woolford on his Facebook page, The Prime Minister said when the fire started some of his guards and the firefighters entered the building and were able

to safely extract the female occupant. They later discovered that Sankar was still in the building but the place was heavily grilled and the heat had started to intensify.

Firefighters reportedly battled to extinguish the blaze but when the heat subsided and a search was conducted, they found the charred body of Sankar in a bedroom in the upper flat of the building. One of his relatives told the Guyana Chronicle that the elderly man had recently done a bypass surgery and was recuperating. The distraught relative however pointed out that although he had not fully recovered, he was active around the house.

Sankar has been remembered

Illegal Aircraft Spotted at Parabara

ports from the ground indicate that the planes usually spend a very short time on the ground before taking off. Over the weekend , this newspaper was told that air traffic services at the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) was in receipt of a report of an unidentified aircraft which was spotted overhead in Region Eight (Potaro/Siparuni) several days ago.

Reports are that a female pilot attached to a domestic airline at Ogle was flying from the Kaieteur Falls airstrip to the coastland, when she observed an aircraft overhead. The sighting raised an alarm, since air traffic control had no knowledge of any additional traffic in the vicinity. The country’s hinterland has been in the spotlight in recent months following the discovery of several illegal aircraft on illegitimate runways constructed in the Rupununi. The most recent incident involved a Beechcraft

King Air luxury plane bearing registration PR-IMC, which was discovered abandoned on an illegal airstrip in the North Rupununi. Two persons have been placed before the courts in connection with that incident.

The discovery came shortly after an illegal airstrip was found near the Santa Fe farms in the area.

On September 13 last year, a plane which was registered in Colombia was discovered near the village of Yupukari. Reports had also indicated that the area where the aircraft was found was on the radar in relation to the illegal drugtrafficking trade.

There were also reports that the abandoned aircraft had previously been sighted circling the area on numerous occasions in the past. The plane bore registration number N767Z, and it was later revealed by Minister of State Joseph Harmon, that the United States

level and you know that when things are handled at CID Headquarters, commanders don’t get involved…I think some of the structures would have faded away…I note your tone and I am very straight with this inquiry…I know what you’re saying, but the standard and latitude you would have had in your time is different…this is not where you left…this is a different time.”

However, Slowe maintained that initial investigations should begin at the divisional level and there must be records to reflect same. Additionally, it was recommended that Hicken be investigated for perjury in relation to his statement under oath that he had reported the allegation to Commissioner Persaud at about 10:00hrs on March 29.

“This claim was not supported

by Commissioner Persaud’s sworn testimony before the commission. It should not go unnoticed that Hicken stated that he reported the allegation to Commissioner Persaud who was on leave and not Ramnarine, the acting commissioner. The evidence before the commission strongly suggests that Hicken is part of the unprofessional wrangling that is taking place among some of the senior officers of the GPF, and which had led to some degree of polarisation. It is obvious that Hicken is on the side of Commissioner Persaud,” the report concluded.

- Guyana Chronicle

as a “cool, quiet and nice guy,” who was always there for his family and friends.

Family, friends and even customers were in distressed as they watched on in shock and disbelief. Sources from the Guyana Fire Service told this publication that investigations are ongoing; however persons believe that the fire might have been electrical origins. Residents from around the area said during the thunderstorm early Monday morning, there were fluctuations in electricity.

- Guyana Chronicle

registration was bogus, since there is another active aircraft in the U.S. with the same registration number. Residents had found the plane almost one month before an official report was made to authorities, according to the preliminary findings of a Commission of Inquiry (CoI)

by Brigadier (Ret’d) Edward Collins.

The CoI report of Collins found that the state’s aviation authority is in no position to locate illegal aircraft within the country’s territory, despite the use of the Automatic Dependent SurveillanceBroadcast (ADS-B) which the aviation industry had adopted some two years ago.

The ADS-B system requires communication between the ground team and the pilot to ensure the operation of the system. Unless the pilot activates his system and communicates with the ground crew, the system is useless.

- Guyana Chronicle

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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Plant Quarantine Division Helping to Boost Trade

JAMAICA -- The Plant Quarantine Division (PQD) in the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries is playing a key role in helping to boost trade in agricultural produce and ensuring that citizens have access to safe, quality foods.

Chief Technical Director in the ministry Dermon Spence said the expansion of trade is part of Government’s strategic objectives for the sector.

“Our strategic mission… involves several activities that are critical to supporting the quality of produce to ensure that we consistently meet the standards that are established by the importing country, to show that we understand what the rules are that govern the trade of these produce,” he noted.

This includes ensuring that exporters adhere to sanitary and phytosanitary measures in order to protect human, animal and plant life from risks arising from additives, contaminants, toxins or disease-causing organisms. Certain products require such certification by importing countries.

Spence, who was addressing a recent JIS Think Tank, said the division is the first line of defence in preventing the entry of diseases into Jamaica through the issuing of import permits, in-

spection of import/export cargo and baggage at ports of entry, seizures of import/export cargo and baggage and the execution of post-entry inspections.

“This speaks to the Government’s investment in protecting the borders from these pests and diseases, to make Jamaica a safe place to do business,” he noted.

He said the PQD’s inspection and certification services ensure that produce leaving and entering the country will stand up to scrutiny and still have the desired nutritional and taste benefits that they offer.

Spence said compliance and enforcement of the measures are critical to protecting international trading relationships and securing ready markets for exports.

He noted that when breaches occur at the ports “the impact is rippling and severe”.

He pointed out that one pest entering the country could wipe out an entire species, be it animal or plant life, “so there is no room for tardiness from our officers and no room for disobedience from the persons travelling to and from Jamaica”.

“If the public disregards the warnings of the PQD and smuggle plant-based items in the

country, the livelihood of farmers and, by extension, the economy of the country can be ruined,” he said.

“Everyone wins when the regulations of the PQD are upheld… farmers realising the benefits of their toil, lifting their standard of living and ensuring that we are able to move the country forward in terms of production and alleviating poverty through increased exports,” he added.

Meanwhile, Spence cited the United States Department of Agriculture pre-clearance programme as an important measure in helping to enhance agricultural exports.

“This programme ensures that products coming from Jamaica are pre-cleared and experience fast-track processing through the US market.

The significant realisation of the benefits under this programme would mean that there is a greater level of efficiency with which the product gets to move through the system… and with improved efficiency, it reduces cost,” he explained.

He said the arrangement gives farmers and other stakeholders a sure market and the opportunity to target specific crops for expanded production.

- Jamaica Observer

Campbell Denies Snubbing PNP Conference

JAMAICA -- Outspoken People’s National Party (PNP) Member of Parliament for St Ann North Western Dr Dayton Campbell has denied claims that he snubbed the party’s 79th annual conference held at the National Arena in Kingston.

The four-day conference ended on Sunday with a public session from which Campbell was noticeably absent. He was also absent from private sessions held over two days.

Monday, when contacted by the Jamaica Observer, Campbell said while he was not present at the conference he was well represented by his constituents.

“I was off the island and came back on Saturday but got tied up. I wanted to attend, but couldn’t,” Campbell explained.

The young MP, known for speaking his mind, also dismissed claims of issues with the party.

The Observer was informed that there are strained relations in the PNP’s Region One, from which Campbell tendered his resignation as chairman in July.

The Observer was also told that tensions teetered on the brink of a firestorm at a meeting of Region One executives late last month after Campbell accused former region chair and Member of Parliament for St Ann South Eastern Lisa Hanna of undermining his stewardship.

He replaced Hanna, who gave up the post to run in the vice-president election in 2016.

A source close to party happenings

shared with the Observer that since the testy meeting, Campbell had in fact tendered a resignation letter to party executives, who in return asked him not to resign. The party insider also said Campbell was reeling from the pressure of failing to secure a single division in his constituency in the November 2016 Local Government Elections.

The MP posted cryptic messages on his Facebook page following the meeting, suggesting that he was ready to throw in the towel.

However, Monday he scoffed at the assertion of resignation, saying that was not the case.

- Jamaica Observer

Jamaica Meets All But One Vaccination Target

JAMAICA -- ISLANDWIDE, all targets of the seven mandatory vaccinations for children, except one, have been met.

The data, which was provided by the Ministry of Health in its April Vitals quarterly publication, show that in 2016, for children between birth and 11 months, 96 per cent received the BCG (Bacillus Calmette Guerin — the tuberculosis vaccine); 99 per cent received the third dose of the polio vaccine; 99 per cent got the third dose of the DPT — diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus (lock-jaw) vaccine; 98 per cent received the Hepatitis B vaccine; and 99 per cent got HiB — Haemophilus influenza B (Meningitis vaccine).

For children 12 to 24 months, 95 per cent received their first measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine and 85 per cent received the second dose of MMR.

Vitals states that vaccination of at least 95 per cent of the population is required to protect against vaccine-preventable diseases, which means that the target for the second dose of MMR was not met.

According to the Ministry of Health, the recent change in the recommended age for MMR2 from four to six years to 12-23 months of age is a factor in the shortfall.

“Because of how the MMR2 coverage is mathematically calculated, the coverage figure reported for MMR2 only takes into account doses given to children ages 12 to 23 months of age. Efforts continue to meet the target of 95 per cent as Jamaica strives to maintain our measles- and rubella-free status,” the ministry said in a statement, adding that the 85 per cent recorded in 2016 was an increase from 60 per cent coverage between 2010 and 2011.

But despite the health ministry meeting vaccination coverage targets, there are at least two parents who are not pleased.

One parent who contacted the Jamaica

Observer recently, said that while she was happy to hear vaccination was “going good” islandwide, she was displeased that after registering her child for high school her child had to get the MMR2 vaccine as the nurse at her child’s health care facility had not placed the appointment date for the MMR2 vaccine on her child’s immunization card.

“She got the MMR1 at age one and I’m now learning that the second dose should be given between the ages of three and five. On my daughter’s appointment card no date was indicated, so on doing my checks I never even realised she was due another shot, and it’s only until she is about to start high school that on her medical it was indicated. What’s so hard in checking three to four years ahead and placing it on the appointment card? Just to say next shot due on whatever date?” the parent, who identified herself as Kelly, asked.

Another individual who identified herself as Matilda, said it was not until she was an adult seeking to enter university that she realised she had missed one of her shots.

“I remember being quite surprised that all my shots were not up to date. And what was even more amusing was the fact that my immunisation card was stamped ‘fully immunised’. I remember my doctor and I having a laugh about it and him consoling me that the shot needed wouldn’t hurt.

“So simple glitches like that are questionable. How can you stamp a card as fully immunised and the individual isn’t?” she asked.

But the Ministry of Health is contending that even so, the national immunisation schedule is printed on the back of the immunisation card and in the Child Health and Development Passport for the benefit of parents and guardians.

Plus, the public health team and schools are fully aware of the national immunisation schedule and the protocols to administer the vaccines accordingly.

But, with regards to the experience of both individuals going through the school system undetected, the ministry said that it does not collect routine statistics on the number of children that turn up at educational institutions without being properly immunised. However, the ministry said children in the school setting who are found to be missing doses, based on the national immunisation schedule, are actively referred to the public health team at the various health centres and health departments across the island.

The ministry added that once the public health team is notified of these cases, arrangements for vaccination are immediately made and the opportunity is also used to counsel and educate parents and guardians about the requirements for immunisation as well as the safety and effectiveness of vaccination.

The health ministry pointed out, too, that other activities such as school visits, community outreach sessions, and house-to-house visits are conducted once children are found to have missed their vaccines, but stated that field officers often report that there have been barriers that limit access to several households and updating of cards when field visits are being conducted.

These barriers, according to the ministry, include inability to access households in gated communities, provision of inaccurate/incorrect home addresses, refusal of entry into communities/households, refusal of delinquent clients to comply with requests of the visiting officers to review and update cards, and refusal of vaccination.

The ministry maintained that immunisation will continue to be a high-priority programme for the Government of Jamaica and that ensuring all children are adequately immunised, according to the national schedule, is the responsibility of all Jamaicans..

- Jamaica Observer

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feature

PAGE 17

#GetTheGunkOut With Clean Locs, Loc Detailing Services

Hair maintenance is something that varies by individual. Not every hair pattern or texture is the same, and each one requires its own unique care regimen to ensure that it remains healthy and strong.

Niya Belnavis aka Miss Niya made the decision to loc her hair exactly a decade ago out of a desire to simplify her own life shifting her focus on needs instead of wants.

“I found that I was very caught up with myself, whenever people would ask me what my favorite thing about myself was, my answer would always be my hair.” Miss Niya shares.

Upon that introspection, she wondered if the entirety of her identity existed in her hair. In order to detach herself from the superficial world of hair maintenance Miss Niya decided if she could find a ‘stationary position’ or an unchangeable style in which to keep her hair it would speak more to her character as a person and disregarding her vanity would demonstrate that she didn’t focus on trivial things such as styling her hair but dedicated her time to more important endeavours.

Miss Niya was born in Canada, but she comes from a long lineage of light skinned folk. Her father’s family hails from Jamaica, but her grandparents are of Jewish and Syrian descent, while on her mother’s side they are a mixture of white, black and native. Miss Niya became interested in the idea of becoming a hair stylist when she was a young girl accompanying her grandmother to the hair salon. It was always fascinating for her to watch people getting their hair done, and when she told her Granny that she wanted to be a hair stylist she discouraged her telling her that it was too much work for not enough money.

The opportunity to work with hair came for her years later when she was in a relationship that steadily became emotionally, mentally abusive. It was a terrible relationship where her independent spirit was always being overruled and once it began getting physical Miss Niya knew she had to get out. Unfortunately for her, he was the one who held all of the finances.

“A few years prior, before I had locs myself, a friend of mine with dreadlocks asked if I could help wash his hair. Washing his hair I realized that there was a lot of gunk in his roots so I thought that he was just gross and didn’t practice good hygiene.” Miss Niya shares.

“Then a guy that I was dating had the same issue and I realized that this wasn’t a personal thing it was an epidemic.

That’s when Miss Niya began washing people’s locs in her bathtub for money.

Searching for an escape this was the perfect opportunity and eventually, she saved up enough money and was able to leave.

When she moved out she went on Ontario Works (OW), a government assistance program that helps people who are in financial need. A friend then told her about the self-employment program through which they put you through school, and also give you the opportunity to run your business as well as keep the money you earn from the business. From here she was connected with Scadding Court Urban Market, community vendors that are housed in shipping containers and there her LockShop gained a home and began building a reputation for itself.

Miss Niya is the owner of a CleanLocs in Scadding Court Urban Market. She is a Loctician and specializes in a steam-based gunk/lint removal process that leaves Locs feeling, lighter, softer without completely unraveling.

CleanLocs was established in 2010 and is still the only Loctician completely dedicated to this specific issue. There are a lot of negative connotations associated with dreds, and some of the first things that people ask is how do you even deal with your hair? Do you even wash it? How do you wash it?

Before starting her business Miss Niya dedicated her time and research to developing a foolproof method to help people clean and maintain their locs.

There are different ways to begin locking your hair, Miss Niya says that she prefers the double twist and backcomb method or she alternates with a crochet method depending on the hair texture and the end result that a client is looking for, some people prefer freeform, while others enjoy a more manicured look. She takes a natural organic no-fuss method, a logical approach because without the use of products over time the hair starts to form knots and mattes down and condenses

“A lot of people don’t realize that the size you start at will condense and get smaller not the other way around,” Miss Niya explains.

“If your locs are getting bigger over time it’s probably an accumulation of gunk and dirt.”

Miss Niya says that over the past seven years through vigorous research and working so closely entwined in the locs of others, it has debunked a lot of the myths, ideas and concepts “I went into it a little ignorant myself and learned there really is no such thing as nap-

py hair, everyone’s hair has a curl pattern, and everyone’s hair is different.”

It’s trial and error or science which is essentially the same thing developing a system that helps me to get deep inside the locs to clean up all of the gunk, lint and build up inside of there without unraveling the hair.

“I focus a lot on education, the way people take care of their locs is because of lack of information.

I found it baffling that with all of those issues at the forefront of people’s minds, how nobody thought well maybe we should be cleaning them out?”

There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to getting dreadlocks. “What most people don’t realize is that your hair texture really determines how your hair will loc.

Curlier hair locs more like pocket coils in a mattress whereas straighter hair looks more like a braided rope.” Miss Niya explains. Also, what this means is that curlier hair is easier to clean than straighter hair because it’s springy and the air is able to pass through it more easily.”

In order to clean her client’s hair, Miss Niya uses a steam-based method. Before she began locing her own hair she did some research into how locs are formed and worked on reverse engineering the process working out how the dirt would get in and the best methods for getting it out

Because the hair condenses to get tighter and locks the dirt in, I needed to find a way that I could expand it without unraveling them completely.” I just went to Gr. 7 science where they tell you if you heat something up it expands and I tried it out and it worked.

Trying to do the wash and my other services isn’t nearly as effective without the steam.” she says. “People leave after a cleaning service with their hair feeling ten times lighter, I’m talking feather light.”

In the future, Miss Niya would like to open the Clean Locs Academy a place where hairstylists can go and learn about the art of managing natural hair and dreads. “People don’t realize the nuances of racism and segregation, things not visible to the naked eye or someone who isn’t from a visible minority,”

she says.

Currently, there is no formal education program like this exclusively for learning about caring for and styling natural hair and in order to run a black hair salon and be a hair stylist there you have to be registered and regulated by the government. However, the issue is that in order for that to happen you need to attend a school approved by the government to be certified and they do not teach you anything about dealing with natural hair.

“Once you graduate you go out and do all this work on black hair that is still unregulated and you have to pay all this money when in the long run it doesn’t even benefit the business, I want to open the school so that if you want to become a Loctician you can come to the CleanLocs Academy and learn everything about locs there.”

The benefit to what Miss Niya does is that she doesn’t care for any other type of hair just strictly dreadlocks “Every single day of my life I’ve been inside of somebody’s locs, and people come from near and far for one of my cleanings or detailing services.”

CleanLocs is located in Scadding Court Urban Market, right behind Kensington Market at 707 Dundas St West #7 in Toronto.

They are by online appointment only and this is not a fully staffed shop. Miss Niya services each and every one of her clients herself. If you are in the market for a Loctician to help spruce up your locs be sure to visit Miss Niya at CleanLocs!

Written by Alyssa Mahadeo Toronto Caribbean Reporter

entertainment

PAGE 20

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, September 20, 2017

jEWELZ, Mr. Skankin on the Block DT The Artist dt@carib101.com

Entertainment If you are living in Toronto and follow Hip Hop, then in some way, shape or form, you have started to hear about jEWELZ, and yes I spelled it right.

Tracing his ancestry back to the island of Dominica, jEWELZ is a powerhouse of energy in rhyme and stage presence.

With Singles like “Skankin on the Block” and “Bust a Elvis” and his newest single “Wha Gwan”. His latest performance came at Yonge-Dundas Square for TDot Fest, where he had the audience going crazy. With his hypeman Pac, jEWELZ even had some of the organizers come on stage to Skank on the Block with him.

Talking to jEWELZ is often hilarious, with his jovial personality, always cracking jokes, and making people laugh. Never one to take things too seriously, except when it comes to his music. He credits his current buzz, and development to manager K Woodz, Rich

the Kid, and myself DT the Artist (He said to add me after all that we have been through together, and always being there for him to help with advice and guidance). Always humble when it comes to learning and making moves, jEWELZ often takes steps in a presidential manner, by consulting with his team, manager, and mentors. A young man with an old soul, jEWELZ stays grounded by mentoring youth and helping them to make inspired decisions.

Never one to shy away from straight talk, jEWELZ is always proud to let people know he is Dominican, “Not Republic” he always says. And then he usually puts on one of the hardest accents to let you know where he represents.

I asked jEWELZ a couple questions, and here is what he had to say.

1. What was your moment where it became apparent that being an artist was your calling? “When I was two years old I decided I wanted to be an artist. My cousins would play a track

by Method Man and would hype me up while I rapped.”

2. What has been one of your biggest moments thus far? “Performing at Tdot fest, culture shock. And working with, not for profit organizations

such as urban arts.”

3. What has been one of the lowest moments that you were able to learn from? “Being in jail. Being locked up and knowing I wasn’t supposed to be there. And learning the hard way, that you don’t want to ever be in there. Also, I would have to say when I lost my mother.”

4. What is your goal for your career?

“To be a well-known motivational entertainer. I plan to encourage and inspire audiences, and fellow artists to keep striving for greatness.”

5. What will be that moment that you feel that you’ve made it. “When I’m able to provide for my family. And my entire team is eating. When I feel like I never have to beg for anything.

And also, when I am able to travel and see the world.”

6. What was the best advice someone ever gave you for your music career? “You have the potential to go somewhere. Do not give up. Keep

pushing through until you break through.”

7. What do you intend to be your music legacy? “That was one frickin’ energetic guy”, when asked to elaborate he said “I want people to remember me every time I get on stage and perform, but also for the things I do in the community, working with youth.”

8. What advice would you give to up and coming artist? “Be yourself in life and in your music. Never give up no matter how hard it gets.”

9. What project or single are you currently promoting? “My new single “wha Gwan”, the video is now available on youtube.”

To get in touch with jEWELZ, or to follow him Social media he can be found at @kasimjules, he can be reached at kasimjules@gmail.com

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travel

PAGE 22

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Where Will Your Next Adventure Take You? Amanda Stancati

amanda@carib101.com

Travel Everyone’s travel style is different. If you’re stuck between two options, we can help you decide which one is best.

Cruise vs all-inclusive vacation For sun-seekers, both cruises and all-inclusive resorts provide a relaxing escape and beautiful surroundings, but there are key differences to help you decide between them. If your vacation checklist simply includes pool time, a good book, and some R&R, an all-inclusive vacation may be for you. If you tend to get bored on a resort and prefer to sightsee and partake in activities, you may be better suited for a cruise. Cruises are not always as expensive as people think; sometimes they can cost the same as a resort getaway, de-

pending on your budget.

Cruises are known for their excellent entertainment and nightlife on board, from casinos and discos to comedy shows and jazz bars -- and even award-winning musicals that rival those on Broadway -- not to mention their outstanding food and drinks.

Plus, they appeal to multi-generational vacations, making them a great choice for families and large groups, especially if there are plenty of kids and teens. Cruises are great for those traveling alone (you may find options without single supplements), those with dietary, mobility or medical issues, and those who prefer a more active vacation: waking up in a new place each day combined with the hustle and bustle of life onboard. On the other hand, those seeking a quieter, more intimate vacation may opt for a smaller hotel property instead.

Ocean cruise vs river cruise When deciding between an ocean cruise or river cruise, it’s all about the ports. River cruising is a more luxurious and romantic way to travel to experience natural beauty, historic sites, and cultural experiences. River cruises use smaller ships to navigate smaller cities.

Destinations range from busy city centers

like Budapest, Paris, and Amsterdam to picturesque villages. You’re never far from land on a river cruise so you can soak up the scenic views from the comfort of the ship. Shore excursions are typically included and encourage you to experience local living. There are usually no “days at river” like the days at sea you typically see on an ocean cruise.

Life onboard is quieter, with a focus on gourmet meals and local wines, workshops and lectures, personalized service, and only a few hundred passengers compared to over a thousand on ocean cruises. River cruises typically attract an older crowd and lack the extravagant amenities and entertainment emphasized on ocean liners. Instead, think cocktail parties and bikes for rent. If you want to bring the kids along, there aren’t many entertainment options on board a river cruise.

Ocean cruises excel in family vacations, with loads of space, activities, and amenities to enjoy. If you’re looking for a high-energy vacation over a cultural one, ocean cruises offer more activities and amenities onboard and a more lively atmosphere - not to mention you can cruise the Mediterranean’s sunny waters.

Guided tour vs independent travel The style you choose to explore Europe and

other parts of the world comes down to personal preference. Guided (also known as escorted) bus tours are popular because they are easy to plan and offer peace of mind. When you book an organized tour, your itinerary is planned out for you by experts. Your transportation between cities, accommodation, and typically some meals, activities, and excursions are included (this is useful for skipthe-line admission tickets into top attractions!). If you don’t have a lot of time to plan, a guided tour gives you a good overview of your destination, but at a quicker pace. You can choose itineraries catered to different interests like food, adventure, or budget. You’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide to recommend the best places to explore.

A self-guided tour requires more effort to organize but you are less restricted.

There is no schedule. If you want to bring your kids too, it really depends on their style.

Can you picture them sitting quietly on a bus tour, eagerly listening to the history of their surroundings? Or are they more active? The focus is on you and your family. Sleep in, explore at your leisure and linger in a place if you really like it. There is no one telling you to move on or risk missing your ride.

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PAGE 26

food

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Callaloo-Stuffed Tortillas with Roasted Sweet Pepper and a Spicy Butter Bean Spread

There are three elements to making this dish that you will enjoy: cooking the callaloo; roasting the bell peppers and blending the spicy butter bean spread. You will also love the use of simple ingredients like green onions, shallots, garlic, apple cider vinegar and scotch bonnet, to make this winning trio.

Cooking the Callaloo When heat is applied to raw callaloo, it shrinks and loses water.

To get a half cup of cooked callaloo, one packed cup of raw callaloo must be used. Cooked callaloo is available canned and is just as delicious.

Eartha Lowe

eartha@carib101.com

Green Healthy Eating

You’ll need • 10, 7” round tortillas • 6 cups tightly packed raw callaloo, chopped, or 3 cups cooked/canned callaloo • 3 cups butter beans, warmed • 2 large red or yellow bell peppers • 2 stalks green onions, chopped • 3 cloves garlic • 1 small shallot, roughly chopped • 1 tablespoon curly parsley • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar • 3 – 4 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil • ½ teaspoon ground allspice • 1 ½ teaspoons black pepper

Callaloo is a popular dish served in different variants across the Caribbean. On Sunday mornings in Jamaica, a very vocal gentleman used to visit our neighborhood with a bucket of callaloo, bok choy, okra and lettuce on his head. He would walk the neighborhood yelling “callaloo, bok choy (only he pronounced it pop chow), okra and lettuce! callalohoooooo!” In that same order, he yelled those same words, every Sunday morning.

Today’s recipe is inspired by my love for this versatile leafy green vegetable.

Callaloo-Stuffed Tortillas with Roasted Sweet Pepper and a Spicy Butter Bean Spread

• •

½ teaspoon sea salt (more to taste) 1 scotch bonnet pepper

pepper as desired. Continue to blend adding extra olive oil as needed. Salt to taste.

Directions Cooking the Callaloo: Heat 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil in a non-stick skillet. Add the green onion, 2 cloves minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté on medium heat for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the callaloo, season with 1 teaspoon black pepper, allspice, salt (as desired). Cover and let steam for 5 minutes, or until wilted, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. Drain excess water if any.

Top The Tortillas: Your callalloo, roasted peppers, and spicy butter bean spread are ready to go! It’s time to load these tasty toppings onto your tortillas. Start with the spread. The tortilla will be folded in half. You can spread the butter bean on one-half of the tortilla, or on the whole tortilla. Add slices of roasted pepper on top of the spread. Top the roasted pepper with callaloo. Fold in half. Place on a hot skillet to toast both sides.

Serve hot.

Roasting the Bell Peppers: Preheat oven to 350°F. Slice 2 red or yellow bell peppers. Drizzle with a ½ teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil. Season with a ½ teaspoon black pepper. Roast for 10 – 15 minutes. Set aside.

Food category: vegan, vegetarian - go veggie crazy!

Prep and cook time: 45 minutes Difficulty: moderate Servings: 4 - 6

Blending the Spicy Butter Bean Spread: Place 3 cups warmed butter beans in a good food processor. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 small shallot, roughly chopped, 1 clove garlic, 1 tablespoon curly parsley, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar.

Blend until smooth or until the spread has reached your desired consistency. Add in scotch bonnet

Tips: Kick some sour cream up a notch by mixing it with minced green onion. Serve with these warm tortillas. See more on www.earthacooks. com.

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Let’s Talk Fenty Beauty

Kizzy Courtney

kizzy@carib101.com

Beauty Tips

Rihanna is the latest celebrity to enter the cosmetics business. After two years of development and months of teasing, Rihanna’s debut makeup line Fenty Beauty is finally here!

Fenty Beauty launched September 8, 2017, in Sephora worldwide! The beauty line includes foundations and highlighters, which are meant to complement all skin tones and is crueltyfree.

What I love most about Fenty Beauty is the thought that went into a line that is completely diverse and inclusive. Rihanna is a black woman who came into her own while dealing with private moments in the public

eye. As she’s risen to superstardom, she has never stopped advocating for us. When I say us, I mean women of color. Fenty Beauty speaks to that by offering a range of 40 shades of foundation that has us in mind. Yes, you read that right 40 SHADES! These foundations which are called the Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation is sweat-proof, humidity-proof, and the medium-to-full coverage formula gives you a few minutes to blend before it locks on to skin and doesn’t budge.

The foundation has a mid-range price point at $42 from Sephora. Along with the foundation is a face primer called Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Primer which promises to smooth away the pores, evens skin tone and texture, and instantly absorb oils without feeling dry or chalky. There is one lip gloss in the collection, called the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer. The peachy-bronze gloss is shot-through with flecks of gold shimmer and feels moisturizing and slick but not sticky. It is said to be a universal color that works on every skin tone.

Besides the products mentioned above, there are also some amazing highlight-

beauty

ers in the collection as well called Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter, which comes in singles and duos. The duos have one subtle shimmery shade and one intense shade. The single shades are gorgeous! The shade Trophy Wife looks like it’s basically freshly ground gold dust, it’s by far the glitteriest golden highlighter I’ve ever seen, and it’s ideal for darker skin tones. If you’re fair skinned then you’ll love Metal Moon, an iridescent pearly-white shade that makes skin look lit-from-within.

Fenty Beauty also gave us blotting papers and blotting powders. The papers roll out like aluminum foil from a tube that could be mistaken for a lipstick. The idea is that you won’t be ashamed to blot in public. The translucent blotting powder is impossible to overdo and blends seamlessly into skin without looking too flat. You can also buy a magnetic mini brush that attaches to the powder’s case, but that’s sold separately. If powder is not your thing the line also has 30 Match Stix, which are basically do-all complexion tubes. There are 20 matte shades that can be used to contour, highlight, correct, and conceal. They’re soft, creamy, and buildable. Then there are

PAGE 29

10 shimmer Match Stix which can be used as blush, highlighter, or even lipsticks. Did I mention the Match Stix are magnetized and sticks to each other for easy travel? And since Fenty Beauty is all about the face, there’s also a set of tools. In addition to the mini brush for the blotting powder, there’s a sponge which has a chunk taken out of the side and a flat tip.

There’s also a synthetic highlighting brush designed after a shark tooth to hug the curves of your cheekbones, and a small synthetic foundation brush.

While fans hoping for wild lipstick shades might find themselves disappointed, anyone who loves easy, glowy, healthy skin will fall in love with Fenty Beauty. It’s truly outstanding for someone to launch a makeup brand that understands the importance of inclusivity and diversity. There is something for everyone in this line, from the fairest of the fair to the deepest chocolate melanin beauty. I know that this is just the beginning for Fenty Beauty, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.

Robyn Rihanna Fenty is a true representation of #BlackGirlMagic.

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Wednesday, September 20, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Wednesday, September 20, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Essential Tremor

Allison Brown

allison@carib101.com

Health Care Recently, a very special family friend asked me if I could write an article about Essential Tremor (ET). I was quite happy to learn that I do have a following of readers who look forward to my article biweekly. I am humbled by the opportunity to share health information as a way of giving back to my community. So, I want to say a great big “thank you” to all of you who read my articles.

ET presents with shaking or “tremors” in various parts and on different sides of the body. The areas mainly affected include the hands, arms, head, larynx, tongue, and chin. The lower body is less affected.

It is said that the thalamus in the brain processes the abnormal electrical brain activity and subsequently causes tremors. In half of the people who present with ET genetics is thought to be the cause. So, a child born to a parent with ET will have a 50% chance of inheriting the responsible gene, though may never actually experience symptoms. ET is much more common in older adults and symptoms become more pronounced with age according to WebMD.

The primary symptoms associated with ET include: uncontrollable shaking that occurs for brief periods of time,

shaking voice, nodding head, tremors that worsen during periods of emotional stress, tremors that get worse with purposeful movement, tremors lessen with rest, and balance challenges (in less often noted cases).

ET is linked to other movement disorder such as Parkinson’s disease and migraine headaches, and depression as a result of some medical therapy. Some individuals can be misdiagnosed as having ET when it is Parkinson’s disease and vice versa. The diagnosis of ET is as a result of examination of symptoms by a physician and a complete neurological exam, there is no specific blood, urine or other test used to diagnose ET.

Treating ET can be in the form of oral drugs that reduce the tremors. Medications encompass Inderal, Mysoline, Neurontin, and Topamax. Tranquilizers such as Ativan, Klonopin, Valium, and Xanax are also used. Botox is also an option for vocal and head tremors. Surgical options include deep brain stimulation (DBS) for those suffering from severe tremors despite medical therapy. DBS is the use of a surgical implantation of electrical leads into the thalamus of the brain.

Focus ultrasound is the use of MRI images to focus ultrasound to destroy tissue in the thalamus; patients are awake and responsive during the entire treatment.

As there is no cure for ET the treatments do provide relief of symptoms and thus increase the quality of life. Not every treatment or procedure is effective for every person with ET. A physician will work with you to develop and recommend an individualized treatment plan, including lifestyle changes that may help to reduce tremors.

health

Health Canada has just recently approved INSIGHTEC’s Exablate Neuro system for the treatment of ET. Data presented to Health Canada demonstrated a clinically meaningful effect of the treatment making the disease more manageable and less debilitating. Due to its non-invasive nature, the procedure is performed while the patient is fully conscious, with no incisions and no anesthesia. The results are immediate and the patient is able to return to normal activities within days. “This is a major breakthrough in the treatment of Essential Tremor,” said Andres Lozano, MD, Dan Family Professor and Chairman of Neurosurgery at Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto. “We are excited to offer our patients a new, minimally-invasive therapy to control their tremors and effectively treat their debilitating symptoms. The patients we have treated so far with this technique have had significant relief of their tremor and a very quick recovery with minimal adverse events”, he emphasized.

There are numerous support groups such as Essential Tremor Canada and Essential Tremor Toronto that can be accessed online for further information.

This article is dedicated to Theresa Ross and family. Special thanks to Anton Ross who because of her tenacity and love for her family member, she researched the information and helped the doctors get on the right track to diagnosis and treatment.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you through providing health education information.

Struggling to Breathe Means Struggling to Live

We’ve all faced shortness of breath, like when climbing a flight of stairs or lifting a heavy box. After a few moments, we catch our breath and move on with our day, forgetting those brief moments. But what would life be like if breathlessness didn’t stop?

Imagine your shortness of breath being so severe you had difficulties doing basic things like showering, running errands or attending social gatherings.

Unfortunately, this reality is a common symptom of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a condition affecting over 750,000 Canadians, 200,000 of whom live

in Quebec. This disease includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

If you are living with COPD, you don’t need to let your disease stop you from doing the things you want to do.

There are things you can change in your routine to help improve how you feel each day.

Light exercises a few times each week are a great way to keep moving without overdoing it. This can include a short walk or stretching.

We all know eating a balanced diet is important for overall health, and people living with COPD are no excep-

tion. Some patients find their breathing is impacted after a heavy meal. It may help to enjoy smaller portions of those hearty fall stews and eat fewer, more frequent meals during the day.

Most importantly, if you have a history of one or more disease flare exacerbations each year, it is a sign the disease could be better managed. Speak with your doctor about options to better manage your COPD — your shortness of breath doesn’t need to hold you back.

- News Canada

Breathe Easier This Fall

As we fall back into our regular routines, we don’t always realize the impact the weather has on our health. For most, feeling the crisp fall air while walking and enjoying the changing colours is a welcome and enjoyable activity, so many of us are looking forward to an active outdoor season.

However, others may notice a shift in their ability to breathe as easily.

Some people may not notice if they are becoming short of breath until doing simple daily tasks and having difficulty breathing. This could be something as routine as cleaning your home or walking to the

corner store. Changes in your ability to breathe well, or a slow decline over time, may be more noticeable for those with a serious lung disease like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD.

COPD includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema and affects over 750,000 Canadians. If you are living with COPD and have a history of one or more disease flares each year, it means your COPD could be better managed.

Difficulty in breathing can be a result of worsening symptoms or new persistent ones. If the symptoms are serious enough, hospitalization may be required.

Talk to your doctor about your difficulty in breathing. There are treatment options available that may help you manage your COPD.

Living with COPD doesn’t mean you are limited to a life of not getting out and about. Don’t let fear of a disease flare prevent you from enjoying a walk through the park, a corn maze with your grandkids, or apple picking with your family. Speak with your doctor about better management options.

- News Canada

PAGE 31

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yoga

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Tapas Trisha Curling

trishacurling@carib101.com

Yoga You’re in the right place. I am still talking about yoga, I am not talking about Spanish appetizers. Iyengar, in his book The Tree of Yoga, describes tapas as “… a burning desire to cleanse every cell of our body and every cell of our senses, so that the senses and the body may be made permanently pure and healthy and leave no room for impurities to enter into our system. It is in this spirit that

the asanas (poses) should be performed… because the burning desire to keep each and every part clean requires us to act.” It is also described as self-discipline or austerity.

I remember when I was first introduced to the term and I completely identified with the idea of that self-discipline and that burning desire to practice yoga because of how it made me feel. My body, mind, and spirit felt aligned. I was coming from a place of chaos in my mind when I started to practice. At the time, I didn’t know how to handle the emotions of grief I was experiencing.

It was just four years after my brother passed away and it was a time of darkness. This darkness created my desire to change, to do something different in order to feel better.

When I found yoga, it was a place of light that I could move towards during my practice. This place of darkness sent me to my mat constantly. As a started to feel better, more like I knew how to cope with my loss,

my burning desire changed. When I went to my mat to practice, I came from a space that was more calm and happy. This fueled my practice for months and then I lost it again.

There were feelings of guilt and shame about why I was not experiencing this magnetic pull towards my mat any longer. When I shifted from solely yoga practitioner to adding on yoga teacher I was able to study more and understand that this is normal.

I share this to ask these questions; What is the source of our tapas? Are we driven to practice yoga because we are coming from a negative space or a positive space? Why can’t the answer be one or both at any given time? Just because our desire to practice fluctuates does not mean that we should have any particular feeling about it positive or negative. The states of our bodies and minds are constantly changing. We may have a desire to practice one day because of the way our hips feel. We may be struggling

with a personal issue and the only space and time we can feel some relief from this is by spending time with breath and asana on our mats. It may be a beautiful day when we are filled with gratitude and the only thing we want to do is celebrate this feeling with a yoga practice. We may have a burning desire to become stronger or more fearless in our arm balances and this is what drives us.

The point is, this can change in a moment. The most important thing, in my opinion, is to simply come back to your mat.

Let go of the reasons why we left and maybe start small. It is important to shift our focus into what it provides and not what we have lost as a result of not practicing. Commit to going to your mat for even five minutes of breath and/or free flowing movement. Go to your mat to fuel the beautiful fire that already exists within.

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Wednesday, September 20, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

life

PAGE 35

Providing For Beneficiaries In Blended Families- The Spousal Trust Valerie Dye

valerie@carib101.com

Legal Matters In the last publication, I touched on the use of mutual wills to deal with issues affecting blended families. One of the main issues that affect such families is the desire of both spouses who have children from previous relationships to leave assets for each of their children after their death. Concerns may exist that when one spouse dies the other spouse may inherit the estate of the deceased. The surviving spouse can pos-

sibly leave the entire estate including assets inherited from his deceased spouse to his or her children and not for the children of the spouse who died first.

Even where parties do not have children from previous relationships it is still likely that the surviving spouse may remarry.

If this happens there is no guarantee that the children of the previous marriage will receive any assets from the estate. In this regard, it may be important to protect assets held during the first marriage for the benefit of the children of that marriage.

Apart from the mutual wills, beneficiaries may be protected through a (testamentary) spousal trust. This trust is created in the will and allows a testator to leave assets or income to his or her spouse in trust and ensure that the capital goes to his children or other intended beneficiaries when the surviving spouse dies. For instance, if a home is left to the surviving spouse in trust

she is allowed to live in the home throughout her lifetime but after her death, it will be passed on to the beneficiaries named in the trust. While the spouse enjoys the benefits of the assets he or she cannot dispose of the capital assets as they are being held in trust for other beneficiaries.

A spousal trust may be for the benefit of either a married spouse or commonlaw partner and may also be referred to as a common-law partner trust.

If one is considering a spousal trust it is important to remember the Family Law rule which allows a surviving spouse to elect not to take benefits under the will of the deceased spouse but to choose instead to have property equalized (as is usually done during separation or divorce). If for instance, the deceased spouse has a net family income of $800,000 at the time of death and the surviving spouse has a net family income of $200,000, the surviving spouse will be en-

Equity, Poverty and the Modern Learner

Kathy McDonald kathy@carib101.com

Education Whether you’re a cynic or optimist one thing you can agree on is that these are exciting times for the Black and Caribbean community. The verdict is out on whether these are just pre-election promises or sincere efforts by the powers that be to right a wrong …to right many wrongs. On Thursday, September 7th, the Honorable Mitzie Hunter visited Hillside Public school to make an announcement about the Ministry of Education’s initiative around equity.

The most shocking piece of information I received that morning is that Ontario is the only education system in Canada that streams their students at such an early age.

Grade 9 is currently the grade where the province of Ontario requires students to make important decisions about the rest of their lives. At fourteen years old!

This three-year action plan has four main areas of focus. They are the school and the classroom practices; leadership, governance and human resource practices; data collection, integration and reporting and or-

ganizing cultural change. How we arrange students, how we teach students and how we assess students are all under the microscope. Leadership and governance training and professional development for trustees are being updated and equity is encouraged to be at the forefront of every decision. Cultural change and data gathering, yes, concrete aggregated data will soon be collected by all boards. To quote the PDSB equity champion, Mary Samuel “The Future we want…….achieving equity for students and staff …”

At the last Board meeting of the Peel District School Board (PDSB) I put forward a motion requesting a report. I am happy to report the motion passed. I put forward this motion as poverty is a key variable in the equity equation. By requisitioning this report the Board of Trustees will be able to determine if the Board is on the right path or if there are any glaring deficiencies. If as a Board we are truly committed to achieving equitable outcomes for all students then poverty has to come to the forefront of the discussion. Invariably the two are married and are inextricably linked.

It is time to have an honest discussion about what is happening to school with a high social risk index (SRI).

The SRI is often a useful indicator of the socioeconomic environment of a school population. The SRI is a cumulative indicator that uses nine variables calculated from the Census. The variables used are income, unemployment rate, level of

education attained, family status e.g. lone parent families, language competency in one of Canada’s official languages, immigration history, transiency, home ownership, dependency on government transfer payments. In Peel, the SRI is updated using the most current data available to board staff. The highest score a school can realize is nine. A score of nine would signal to the Board, intensive support required.

The information garnered from the SRI is useful in determining what extra financial and pedagogical support can be applied to a school as well as the SRI can identify potential risks in a school. Having the dubious honor of being on the top of the SRI list does not always mean doom and gloom. Within the PDSB there are several examples of schools that are thriving.

The recipe for the success of these schools is incorporating administration, teachers, students, parents as well as community partners into the remedies. It is of utmost importance to have parents as partners. As a board, we, in turn, utilize the appropriate resources to facilitate positive outcomes for all students. At the PDSB we are working to brand the neighborhood school and what that means. Schools are beginning to be seen as a community hub.

Teaching is evolving ever so rapidly and with that the increase of differentiated supports. No longer are students passive participants in their learning. It was not too long ago when students were expected to sit still, listen, regurgitate and

titled to receive $300,000 from the estate of the deceased. The surviving spouse can elect to take the $300,000 or to take whatever is left for him or her under the will. If the surviving spouse elects to take an equalization payment this will defeat the purpose of creating the spousal trust which is created through the will. To avoid this the testator who desires to create a spousal trust should also consider having a domestic agreement whereby the parties will waive their rights to equalization upon the death of either of them. Once such a contract is in place then the surviving spouse will only be allowed to take benefit under the will and the spousal trust will apply.

It is important to note that there are certain tax considerations that apply to spousal trusts and to trusts generally. These should be carefully examined when considering the establishment of a spousal trust.

not challenge a teacher’s authority.. don’t ask too many questions. A student would invariably be too intimidated to challenge a teacher’s point of view as this would often be interpreted as challenging the teacher’s authority. Fast forward to today where the modern learner is encouraged to ask those critical questions and not accept the status quo. Modern learning has shifted from being heavily technology focused to being about the learner as a whole. Modern learning is about the student’s voice. The modern learner is taught to be a critical thinker that has an inquiring mind. The modern learner is not only interested in foundational knowledge, the modern learner must demonstrate what he or she understands. The impact of learning cannot and ought not to be defined using one quantitative measure.

The education train has left the station and there are potentially a lot of exhilarating and controversial buzz words that have been floating around. When we take the time to truly digest what an equitable educational experience coupled with the power of the modern learner in a classroom near you means to our children and their future: ….we will be filled with optimism as to the positive outcomes that will result from minds that are challenged to their full potential. So, come and journey with me as we awaken the curiosity of your sons and daughters, as we tantalize the critical thinker and enrich the creative juices within each student. Walk Good, Belle Marché.

PAGE 36

community

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, September 20, 2017

HURRICANE Relationships; Is It Time You Started Analyzing IRMA ISLAND Your Role In Your Relationship?

Part 3 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.

Simone Smith

simone@carib101.com

A Better Tomorrow Welcome Back To A Better Tomorrow!

The only way to make a better tomorrow is to work on making a better today. Every week, I will provide the information needed to develop the mental health of our great community here in Toronto. If this is your first time reading the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, I hope that you will find something that will move your soul and promote the need to make necessary changes in your life.

Last week, I started a series on relationships; I have decided to focus on this area because I have noticed a decline in productive, positive relations between men and women both in marriages and in courting relationships.

What I have decided to do, is tackle some of the issues that I have witnessed by providing insights from elders who have been married 30-50 years and relationship experts. The goal is to allow individuals to analyze their roles

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

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way; knowing their history and innerstanding your own history.

The second principle is Nurture Your Fondness and Admiration. This principle involves revisiting the reasons you fell in love with your partner, to begin with; what did you admire, and do you still admire those traits.

This principle allows you to focus on the positive and not always the negative.

Turning Toward Each Other means connecting with each other again. This principle deals with the communication in a relationship and rebuilding your friendship.

Principle four is Letting Your Partner Influence You. Sometimes in relationships, we may feel we have lost our voice; you can still have a voice and accept your partner’s point of view. It is possible to still learn from one another, team up to solve the larger problems that exist.

Solving Your Solvable Problems means letting go of the complaints that you have and learning to accept apologies and attempts at repairing your relationship.

Principle Six is Overcoming Gridlock means to keep working on unresolvable problems; Gottman believes that you will be more satisfied than if you give up on them.

The last Principle, Create Shared Meaning is about growth in your relationship; really identifying what it means to be a part of the family that you have become, and what you are going to do to enhance positivity in your family.

Are you a change maker?

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.

in their relationships and find ways in which they can work on their own individual issues.

Many of us in relationships are quick to point the finger when things go wrong; what many of us don’t do is take into consideration our own subjective experiences objectively. I will reference written work by John Gottman and Nan Silver. The title of the article is The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work, published

by Crown Publishers in New York. The book was reviewed by Bea Strickland, and I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is working on their marriage.

Last week we introduced the subject matter and reviewed how to identify when you might be facing some complications in your relationships. Some signs were: criticism, contempt, and defensiveness. I asked readers to analyze theses signs and see if they could identify any of the signs in their relationships.

I want readers to understand that having one or more of these signs does not mean the end of your relationship; it means the beginning of the understanding of your relationship. This week let us take a look at the resolution. We are going to start looking at the seven principles outlined by Gottman and Silver; each week I will outline exercises that can be utilized and questions that can be asked to spark conversation between couples.

The first principle is Enhancing Your Love Maps. Like any map, this principle involves knowing the terrain in your relationships. Knowing your partner in an intimate

Colleen Lindberg

colleen@carib101.com

Personal Development “What does that actually mean?” A change maker is somebody in life that is consistently moving forward in life. They are making adjustments in their life, they are learning new things, they are gathering knowledge, they are meeting new people, and most of all, they are trying to change, they are forging through life creating change.

Are you one of those people? Do you like to experiment with life? Do you like to try new things? Do you like to challenge yourself?

Change makers in the world are the people that develop new products. They’re the people that help create new things that help

empower people. They’re the people that push boundaries in life to potentially honor or enhance some things. It’s all about the movement forward.

I was once told by a mentor, “If you’re not growing, you’re dying,“ because nobody can stay stagnant. Nobody can really stay in one place, would you agree? We are either moving forward or moving backwards, or maybe it’s looking backwards, but really all you can do is keep moving forward.

So, what are you doing in your life in order to grow, or to change, or to move forward? Now it doesn’t have to be on this intense level of chaotic change, it just means moving almost like a tortoise if that’s your style, forward through change. Evaluating, deciphering, but continuing to move.

Change is the only thing we can really count on to happen. It’s the consistent player that keeps showing up in life.

If you take a look at the world today, we are only in existence with all the things we have because someone chose change.

Someone chose to experiment and push the

boundaries. Someone said, “The world is not flat it’s round, someone said we will be able to fly, or that we will drive cars.” Of course, I could go on and on about this but really you know what I mean.

Think about this, we are at the end of our life, contemplating life, and we look at ourselves and say, “Did we actually make a difference?” “Did we push through the things that we were supposed to?” “Did we learn through the experiences?” and “Did we really, truly live?”

And I really believe the definition of a change maker is those who are living.

That they live every day and, it may not be that sky diving intensity day, but every day they continue to move and grow and take the small steps to change in life and to experience life.

So, I challenge you today to go out and be a change maker. Lead the way and the path in something that you’re passionate about. Keep attached or aligned with those things in your life that are important. And keep making a difference in people’s lives.

Wednesday, September 20, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Electric Cars Running on Child Labour

Drivers are increasingly switching over to battery-powered cars, which is a great step in the battle against climate change. But at what cost? Consumers of these vehicles should ask the manufacturers for details on how “clean” their batteries really are.

The batteries that run these vehicles require cobalt and lithium — the same ingredients found in our laptops, smart phones and other gadgets. But these two elements are in short supply and when found, are often extracted using cheap child labour. Some workers are as young as seven, especially in countries like the Congo where more than half the world’s cobalt is found.

“Our research shows that there is a significant risk of cobalt mined by children and adults in appalling conditions in the

Democratic Republic of Congo ending up in the batteries of electric cars,” says Mark Dummett, business and human rights researcher at Amnesty International.

Drivers will want to know that their new cars are not linked to the suffering of child labourers in the DRC, but there is a worrying lack of transparency across the car manufacturing industry, with many leading names failing to disclose information about their cobalt supply chains.

“With car makers in the spotlight today, we are calling on them to make public the steps they are taking to ensure their supply chains are not tainted by human rights abuses, so that consumers’ minds can be put at rest,” says Dummett.

- News Canada

automotive

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Cautious Driving Not Always Enough to Keep Baby Safe

Having a baby means parents change many long-time habits, including how they drive.

A recent survey of Canadian parents hosted on Angus Reid Forum found that over half are now more cautious drivers since becoming parents, regardless of whether their children are with them in the car.

But good or improved driving habits won’t always keep your child safe. While parents have the choice of many car seats offering various features for improved safety and comfort, Erin Varano, a certified passenger safety technician with Graco highlights a few lesser-known attributes that parents should look for when car seat shopping.

Look for advanced testing. While car seats need to pass various tests from Transport

Canada before being made available, it’s a good idea to look for one that exceeds Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Some car seats, like Graco’s 4Ever 4-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, undergo additional sideimpact testing and are tested to higher crash standards, like SafeSeat Engineering, for improved peace of mind.

Know what’s underneath. Though car seats now come in a variety of finishes and textiles, what’s most important for safety is the internal structure. Look for features like a steel-reinforced frame that provides strength and durability, and EPS, an energyabsorbing foam that reduces the energy of impact in an accident.

- News Canada

PAGE 38

business

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Turn to Tech for Time and Cost-Saving Strategies

Whether you commute to an office, run your own business, or occasionally work from home, today’s tech solutions can help improve your work-life balance and smooth out your daily tasks.

Turning to tech is also one way to cut costs and increase profit margins, while at the same time improving your operations.

Enterprise organizations often call this digital transformation, and it’s just as important for smaller businesses to adopt new technology practices.

How do you get started? Follow these cost-cutting best practices to ensure you’re leveraging technology to its full potential: Do less commuting and travelling. All that mileage and flying adds up. Use Skype for Business, a video conferencing tool that helps you run polished and efficient meetings without having to be in the same room.

Get rid of old servers. Are you still taking care of your own hardware? Instead of buying, configuring and managing servers, use cloud services for storage and tools.

Share office space. If you run a business, instead of leasing your own office space, consider an office-sharing arrangement that gives you internet access, a boardroom and work spaces. This modern work arrange-

ment is becoming increasingly popular, with designated workspaces popping up in neighbourhoods everywhere.

Buff up your security. Cyberattacks such as hacks and malware can disrupt businesses and result in damages. Move to a cloudbased service to help improve your security.

Automate back-ups. Time equals money, so if you’re still spending precious minutes handling your data backups manually, you’re wasting money. Look for an option to automate the process by moving your data to the cloud.

Look for custom website work arounds.

Building a custom website can cost a lot and you also need to factor in maintenance costs. Depending on your business needs, it may make financial sense to use a website building tool that offers inexpensive templates that still look professional. The other option is social media — leverage popular networks to share news and information.

Consider a pay-as-you-go option. Instead of paying traditional software and hardware licensing fees based on estimates of your needs, try cloud services like Microsoft 365 where you only pay for what you use.

- News Canada

7 Tips to Help You Organize Your Workspace

Stay productive with a neat and tidy work area that eliminates distractions, saves you time and motivates you for success. Here are some tips to get started.

1. Purge your office. Focusing on one area at a time, begin by decluttering and editing, tossing and shredding things you no longer need. Make sure operating systems and antivirus software on all your computers and mobile devices are up-to-date. A crowded workspace filled with frivolous items and out-of-date operating systems and applications will only hurt your efficiency.

2. Prioritize a good layout. Keep your monitor at eye level and about 17 inches from your body. If you have a webcam, cover your it with a sticky note or a piece of tape for added security. Put frequently used items close at hand and keep everything else in drawers or attractive storage boxes. Think streamlined and minimalist, and group items by use.

3. Sort your files. Most of your documents are probably stored on your computer, but you should still take some time to organize them as you would paper files. Regularly back up unique and important files on a secure backup device and delete temporary folders. Then choose a labelling system that makes sense to you.

4. Be selective with personal touches and reminders. Experts recommend keeping no more than three personal items

for some positive inspiration without distraction. Go easy on the sticky notes as too many lose meaning and effectiveness.

5. Take inventory of your devices. Don’t just toss or hoard your old phones and desktops. Before disposing according to local recycling regulations or reselling, make sure all personal information has been backed up and then wiped. Internal hard drives can be removed from old desktop and laptop computers, but this makes them more difficult to reuse. For mobile devices, first encrypt the device or software and then run a factory reset.

6. Create work zones. Even if you have one desk, segmenting it into different work zones can help you stay on task and accomplish your goals. Have a computer workstation and some extra space where you can review reports, sign documents and write in a notebook.

7. Protect your privacy. Many of us keep personal information like bank statements in our office. Keep physical items in a separate locked drawer and ensure your computer has a good security suite that includes antivirus, anti-spyware and a firewall. This will protect sensitive company documents too. Use strong authentication tools like biometrics, security keys or unique passcodes to secure your mobile devices.

- News Canada

BOO BIRDS

Wednesday, September 20, 2017 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

TAURUS

As of the end of this week and through the weekend, you’ll hit a faster, better movealong. Saturday’s Mercury/Mars puts you in the right frame of mind and helps you cut to the chase regarding what’s most expeditious and effective. Friday to Sunday sets up a great social and creative flow. Spend; get what you want. Monday/Tuesday, go by feel.

Commit and implement; get at it now. Any and all effort applied toward bettering your best will net you a ready reward. As of Saturday, Mercury and Mars in Virgo are on a reboot. They keep the energy and the need on a fresh top-up. Venus, well aligned with Jupiter on Friday and Uranus on Sunday, helps you strike it just right.

March 20 - April 19

CANCER

Use the weekend to the fullest! Make it fun, make it lucrative, or make it luscious; Venus is in excellent shape with Jupiter and Uranus.

While Saturday’s Mars/Mercury leans more toward the task than the play, the transit is good for any attempt at a fresh kickstart. Accompanied by Venus into Virgo, Tuesday’s new moon in Virgo launches the next work/ figure-it-out phase.

Thursday to Sunday sets you onto an opportunity streak. Reach out, look for added support, call in a favour; appeal to their altruistic side and their good humour or catch them on a “why not?” whim. Those in charge may be willing to give you a chance. Monday/Tuesday, go by feel; take it one small step at a time. Aim for simple, uncluttered, and clean.

LEO

VIRGO

Venus makes several optimal planetary connections over the next few days before it leaves Leo. Make the most of the moment, especially through Sunday. Venus/Uranus can spark a great download, a lucky streak, a piece of good news, or the unexpected.

Monday/Tuesday, the moment dictates the play. Follow instincts. Watch for more to be revealed.

Energy-, activity-, and mindwise, Saturday’s Mars/Mercury has you on a fresh battery charge. The new moon and Venus into Virgo, starting Tuesday, also provide ample fresh infusion. Rely on your intuitive sense of timing and know-how to guide you. Stay focused on the immediate need, benefit, or reward. Work on tomorrow once you get there.

Don’t force what isn’t coming naturally.

IN THE STANDS

June 21 - July 22

August 22 - September 22

LIBRA

SCORPIO

Venus in Leo keeps entertainment, interest, communication, profit, and synchronicity on the upbeat. Thursday through Sunday, it’s easy to get it going and/or connect the dots. Mercury/Mars can prompt a flare-up or an immediate or impulsive action. It also keeps your radar sharp and your reaction time quick. Monday/Tuesday, give yourself more time to feel it out. Tuesday’s Mercury/ Neptune can expose more.

Venus in Leo brings you favoured attention, helps you to stay on top of it and make the most of it through the weekend. Try a unique option, new avenue, or creative solution. Saturday’s Mercury/Mars has you hotwired and especially quick on the uptake.

As of Tuesday, Venus and the new moon in Virgo add increase on both sides of the coin.

September 22 - October 23

October 23 - November 22

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

A fresh start is a good start, perhaps even a great start. Friday’s Venus/Jupiter and Sunday’s Venus/Uranus keep opportunity at its best through the weekend. Also helping you cut to the chase, Saturday’s Mars/Mercury helps you pinpoint what’s most necessary, useful, or expedient. Monday/Tuesday, ease your way along, go by feel. Stay open to adding or subtracting as the moment dictates.

You’ll pick up good/better speed through Sunday. At work and play, most conversations, projects, and activities move along well. Saturday is productive for working it out, crunching numbers, and contract negotiations. Monday/Tuesday, put your time and mind to good use. Don’t let the quiet fool you, there’s plenty on the go.

November 22 - December 21

December 21 - January 19

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Venus keeps social, entertainment, and communication matters upbeat over the weekend. Saturday’s Mars/Mercury can fast-track healing, repairs, a negotiation, or a contract.

Also, they can help you score a better deal at the store, bargaining tables, or with your lover. Monday/Tuesday, stay detailed but don’t let the little things get to you. Win some, lose some.

If it feels right, do it. Saturday’s Mercury/ Mars has you game to go for it or to take them on, be they lover, competitor, seller, or foe. You’ll have a great knack for spotting a bargain, lie, or error, for making a quick fix or speedy comeback. Through Tuesday, one thing leads to another.

January 19 - February 18

PRINCESS

April 19 - May 20

GEMINI

July 22 - August 22

Down 1) No shoes at all 3) Men’s dress shoe 4) High ____ 5) Brand with 3 stripes 6) Tie these up 7) Penny ____ 8) Beach footwear 10) Winter footwear 12) “Just Do It” 14) Layer between feet and shoes

PAGE 39

ARIES

May 20 - June 21

Across 2) Shaped like part of your mouth 4) Tool to help get shoes on 8) Ballet-style shoes 9) Date back to Roman times 11) Paired with pajamas 13) Sports shoes with spikes 15) Bottom of the shoe 16) Athletic shoes

fun

February 18 - March 19

HELP WANTED

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS, VEHICLE WRAPPERS, PROJECT MANAGER, AND ADMINISTRATIVE POSITION.

STORE/OFFICE: Store/Office Space For Rent located in Dupont/Dundas West available immediately call 416-925-4417

ALL INTERESTED CANDIDATES MUST BE PUNCTUAL, DETAILED, HAVE A PASSION FOR EXCELLENCE AND NOT AFRAID TO WORK. CALL (416) 907-9491

WAITRESS: Waitress Needed for Caribbean Restaurant located in the Keele and Sheppard area. Willing to train. Call Neal 416-347-6297

SERVICES

FORWANTED SALE HELP

SALES REPS

We are in the process of expansion and constantly looking for the best of the best!

Call - 647-722-6298

JUKEBOX REPAIR: I service vintage jukeboxes, pinball, slot machines, quarter horse, cherry, poker boxes and etc...I have over 50 years experience 416-357-1303

30 WORDS FREE! PLACE YOUR TEXT CLASSIFIED AD FOR FREE! 30 WORDS OR LESS, SUBJECT TO SPACE AVAILABILITY. 647-722-6298

FOR SALE WANTED

SUNDAY SERVICE: Fountain of Truth Ministries Pastor: Reverend Maxine Campbell Worship Address: 2170 Kipling Avenue, Etobicoke Percy Johnson School – Cafeteria Sundays: 10.am – 2. pm Teaching, Worship, Ministering For info call: 416 748 0211

LOAN NEEDED: SDA single Jamaican female desperately seeks sponsor to resume college in Toronto. Please send email to innisaiah58@yahoo.com. If given a loan will repay while studying”

FOR SALE PERSONALS

MISSISSAUGA: Mississauga Missionary Baptist Church invites you to join us at 1620 Dundas St West, each Sunday at 10am for praise, worship and in-depth Bible teaching with Pastor Sean, 416-219-9137

SINGLE MALE: Single Black Male 49 looking for a black female or Asian female for friendship or companionship. Like movies, single dancing, nature walks, beach, sports,shopping,cooking and dining out.

Between 30 and 60. Call 647-608-8462.

Duffin Meadows

Serving Ajax, Pickering and Scarborough since 1993

Cemetery

Our staff is familiar with the diverse traditions of the customers we serve. Let us help ensure that your unique preferences are accommodated. Talk to us today and we’ll explain all your funeral options and help you through your immediate or pre-arrangement needs. on aunt

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JAMAICA: FOR SALE: 2 Bedroom Town House located in Bridgeview Portmore St. Catherines, Jamaica 8.9M JMD Text or call 416-624-4635

FORWANTED SALE HELP

Nort

FOR SALE FOR SALE

Vehicle Entrance

2505 Brock Road | Pickering | 905.427.3385

w w w. m o u n t p l e a s a n t g r o u p . c o m

Duffin Meadows Cemetery is a business name of Mount Pleasant Group of Cemeteries.

F18 - Caribbean - SEP1817 - Duffin Meadows.indd 1

18/09/2017 11:18:01 AM

Travel Professional

P: 647.568.0223 E: hookedontravel@centreholidays.com W: www.hookedontravels.ca

Assisting clients to discover the world of their dreams.

Corporate Office: 214-2155 Leanne Boulevard Mississauga, Ontario L5K 2K8 • TICO 50018114

VACATIONS • FLIGHTS • CRUISES • HOTELS • TOURS

MARIA ALEXANDER, Bsn., MPH

real estate

PAGE 42

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Equifax Was Hacked and Your Credit Information May be Compromised Jay Brijpaul

brijpaul@carib101.com

Real Estate Equifax is one of Canada’s largest credit reporting agencies. It is a depository where consumers’ valuable information such as social insurance numbers, driver licenses, date of births, addresses, credit cards and any other person and financial information, are kept. Banks and businesses use the database to look at clients’ financial spending habits.

A few months ago, the Equifax database was hacked and millions of valuable information were compromised. Hackers gained access to the database from May this year to the end of July and stole data from three countries,

the US, Canada, and the UK. This stolen information can be used by criminals to commit fraud, such as identity theft, anytime in the future and seniors are usually targeted the most.

Equifax agreed to inform all consumers whose information was hacked.

Equifax has a site, equifaxsecurity2017. com, where consumers can sign up for a free identity theft protection and can oversee their credit files’ activity for one year free of charge. There is a catch, however; by signing up, consumers lose their right to sue. Recently, Equifax changed their position and consumers will still have the right to sue in the event of identity theft from this incident. The cutoff date, however, is November 21st and is only applicable for US consumers. Equifax is working with Canadian regulators to iron out the next step. I advise Canadian consumers to inquire as well by calling Equifax at 866-447-7559.

It is important to review your credit cards, bank accounts, and insurance state-

Your Soul Is Precious Come home prodigal sons, daughters, ordained ministers, ministers of the Spiritual Baptist Faith and St. Peter’s National Evangelical Spiritual Baptist Churches. Also to those who are not attending any of the above-mentioned churches in Toronto, due to circumstances.

Come meet with THE PATRIARCH ARCHBISHOP VERNON MANSWELL AND ABBESS JUDY T. JONES MANSWELL. We will be happy to listen to your concerns and reason together for a solution with empathy, understanding and learning experiences.

Please let go of all your differences and let God enlighten, transform your heart and mind, BRINGING YOU CLOSER TO JESUS CHRIST. WE WILL HELP YOU OBTAIN REGISTERED MARRIAGE LICENSES, WRITE LETTERS FOR IMMIGRATION ETC. WE WILL PERFORM WEDDING CEREMONIES, ORDAIN MINISTERS, ENGAGE IN STREET MINISTRY, FEEDING OF THE POOR, CHRISTENING OF ADULTS AND BABIES OR CHILDREN, WATER BAPTISM, MOURNING, SPIRITUAL BATHS, PRAYERS, ANOINTING, LAYING OF HANDS ON THE SICK AND FUNERAL SERVICES.

ments regularly, and to report any suspicious activity immediately. If you own a home, consider taking out title insurance. If your home is mortgage free, then, consider a line of credit. Although you may not need a line of credit, it makes it much more difficult for criminals to commit fraud when there is a line of credit or mortgage on a property.

Another option is to get a credit report freeze. This allows limited access to your credit report. Only your current creditors would be allowed to see your credit report. With a frozen credit report, other creditors cannot view your information and would not be able to approve a loan or increase a line of credit. If you are planning to apply for a loan or buy anything that requires a credit report, then you would have to unfreeze the report for that specific time.

There are three major credit reporting agencies with similar services: Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian. A credit report freeze does not affect your credit score in any way. To freeze you report you will need

to call the companies and provide them with your name, address, date of birth, social insurance number and other personal information. Once the freeze is established, each company will provide you with a personal identification number (PIN) or a password that you will need when you want to unfreeze your report. To lift the freeze, you must give the company a minimum of three days notice. Equifax is currently bombarded with requests to freeze consumers’ credit reports and, as a result, is experiencing some problems.

Identity theft is here to stay and identity theft insurance is important to have.

With your information, fraudsters can have access to your bank accounts, open new bank accounts, transfer bank balances, apply for loans, credit cards and other goods and services, make purchases, hide their criminal activities, obtain passports and receive government benefits. Identity theft is on the rise and you must be vigilant with your personal information.

Allow Us To TAKE THE STRESS AWAY So You Can Focus On What You Do Best!

We specialize in small to medium sized businesses who needs assistance on a short term basis to clean up accounts, reconcile with the bank or lenders or when there is an overflow of business • Cleaning up Accounting Ledgers • Sorting Expenses & Payments • Reconciliation of Bank Accounts

• Collections • Account Payables • Account Receivables • Payroll

WE would like to OPEN another SPIRITUAL CHURCH SO MEMBERS AND MINISTERS CAN PERFORM THEIR MINISTRIAL DUTIES AND WORK IN THE VINEYARD FOR THE LORD. FOR THIS PROJECT TO BE SUCCESSFUL, WE ASKING FOR DONATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC, MINISTERS AND THOSE WHO ARE IN SUPPORT OF THIS WORTHY CAUSE. WE HIGHLY APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT. THANKING YOU ALL IN ADVANCE.

FOR INQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT 416-698-6942

647-239-7531 monica@monicanoble.ca

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PAGE 44

finance

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, September 20, 2017

How Does Harvey And Irma Affect Our Insurance Premiums?

Fazaad Bacchus

fazaad@carib101.com

Finance Specialist What an awful time we have seen over the last three weeks. Three tropical storms starting off from the coast of Africa and churning its way while lapping up the warm waters of the Caribbean. With all that moisture and favorable winds, we soon saw the likes of never before. Hurricane Irma was the largest ever seen, measuriong a category 5 following closely behind Harvey, just three weeks before.

Irma devastated Barbuda, St Martin, many parts of the Caribbean, and then headed off to the Florida coastal cities all across to Jacksonville where it wreaked havoc on everything that was in its path. Those of us who have families prayed that Jose, another hurricane following Irma’s path, didn’t make significant landfall.

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What a three weeks we have seen, Harvey devastating Texas, Irma the Caribbean/ Florida, and Katia on the Mexican coastline. The damage has not yet been assessed but will be in the billions and the hurricane season is not over. Our prayers have been answered for some, but for many, they suffered a different fate. There have been flattened homes, totaled motor cars, boats and tragically loss of life. All are replaceable of course with the exception of life, while everything can be insured, not everything can be replaced.

For those things that are replaceable, namely houses, cars and boats, most persons would have some form of insurance on them, fill a claim form and the insurance company will recover or indemnify you to your original position. However, this is the important point, the monies paid to indemnify all those who have lost possessions do not come from the profits or savings of insurance companies, they come from a collection of premiums from all those who pay premiums.

The principle of insurance is a pooling of risk and a pooling of premiums.

This means that the risk that the insurance company takes on, whether it is insuring your house, your car or your boat is pooled

with everyone else’s house, car, and boat.

Sometimes an insurance company may not want to take the risk on all by itself, so it goes to what is known as a reinsurer which is the secondary insurer. This reinsurer is typically a very large company that covers many of the small companies. This is where your insurance premiums can be affected.

The reinsurer having paid out a lot of monies for property damage then takes his premium up for what is represented as losses. Your insurance company, in turn, passes that cost on to you. The reinsurance company covers worldwide, so when a catastrophe like Irma or Harvey happens, it is expected that the overall cost will go up. Ultimately, you end up paying a higher premium for something that you may not have had any connection with or any fault of yours, it’s just the way it works. However, this principle is not all negative, due to the large spread of people in the pool an insurance company can quickly recover from these losses and soon reduce premiums to standard cost.

Insurance premiums for property can always fluctuate on an annual basis based on claims. The only insurance that doesn’t fluctuate annually is your life insurance, but the cost nonetheless is still affected by the number of claims.

Back-to-School Tips & Insurance Andrew Stewart

andrew@carib101.com

Family Advisor Starting the new school year can be a time of great excitement… and anxiety. This year I had mixed emotions about school starting again. Although it will be nice to no longer have to plan eight-hour stretches of entertainment (“Sure, we can play ‘can you find me under the blanket’ for the seventeenth time!”) I’ll miss those tender parental moments summer brings. The joy of teaching your child how to jump into the pool, the pleasure of devouring ice cream cones together on the porch, or the peacefulness of taking post bedtime walks through the neighborhood.

Role of parents: One thing every parent shouldn’t take lightly is our role in our children’s learning. A parent’s role in their children’s learning evolves as kids grow, one thing remains constant: we are our children’s learning models. Our attitudes about education can inspire theirs and show them how to take charge of their own educational journey. When our children begin formal school, the parent’s job should be to show them how school can be exciting and meaningful by learning new things. My daughter started senior kindergarten this year and already she

is looking forward to what she will learn next year and when she gets bigger. Through guidance and reminders, parents help their kids organize their time and support their desires to learn new things in and out of school. One of the most important things a parent can do is notice their child. Are they a talker or are they shy? Find out what interests them and help them explore it. Let your child show you the way they like to learn,” recommends Dalton Miller-Jones, Ph.D. Talking with teachers: When it comes time to hear how they are progressing in class and to learn more about the teachers it could be a little nerve-racking. Find the right time to speak to the teacher. Always ask if they have time to talk at that moment, or better yet when it might be convenient for them to do so. If a conference is not coming up soon, ask if you can make an appointment for a brief conversation. “Don’t expect to have an extended conversation during drop-off and pick-up. Another alternative is to write short, effective notes. If you want a quick response, keep your correspondence brief. For example, you might say, “Andrew’s been having trouble with the math homework recently.

He struggled for thirty minutes and then we stopped. Can we speak for a few minutes at your convenience about how to help?”

Deal with bullying: Not long ago, the idea that a preschooler could be a bully seemed crazy to me. But my outlook changed when my daughter was four. She would ask if she could tell me something on the car ride home. Of course, I would say yes and she would tell me another child in her class

would always want what she was playing with or messing with her artwork. We may think that this is an act of bullying (the act of willfully causing harm to others through verbal harassment, physical assault, or social exclusion) This used to be something parents didn’t need to worry about until their child was a teenager. Young kids are mimicking the aggressive behavior they see on TV shows, in video games, and on youtube videos,” explains Susan Swearer, Ph.D., coauthor of Bullying Prevention & Intervention.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to help your young child deal with a bully. Be on the lookout for signs that something is bothering them.

The immediate urge might be to contact the child’s parent directly. This is the right approach only for persistent acts of intimidation. Call or email them in a non-confrontational way, making it clear that your goal is to resolve the matter together.

Student accident insurance: A new product you might have heard about or received a flyer in the mail is insuremykids® Student Accident Plan - an inexpensive and comprehensive way to protect your family from unexpected expenses year round. Children involved with sports, special interest clubs, and other activities on or off school property. This may be an option because some expenses are not insured under government and group insurance policies such as • • • • •

Dental accidents Total and permanent disability Fractures and dislocations Ambulance surcharges Private tutoring

DISTRACTED DRIVING

TEXTING • USING A CELL PHONE OR SMART PHONE • EATING AND DRINKING • TALKING TO PASSENGERS • GROOMING • READING, INCLUDING MAPS • USING A NAVIGATION SYSTEM • WATCHING A VIDEO • ADJUSTING A RADIO, CD PLAYER OR MP3 PLAYER Know what counts as distracted driving – and the penalties you could face for it – before you get behind the wheel.

It doesn’t matter if you’re on a highway or stopped at a red light – distracted driving could cost you.

Encourage your family and friends to focus on the road.

PEEL REGIONAL POLICE – ROAD SAFETY SERVICES 7750 HURONTARIO STREET, BRAMPTON, ONTARIO L6V 3W6 • 905-453-3311

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT PEELPOLICE.CA

PAGE 46

sports

Sammy Denies Cameron Snub TRINIDAD -- Did Darren Sammy snub Cricket West Indies (CWI) president Dave Cameron at the post-match presentation ceremony at Gaddafi Stadium on Friday?

Sammy was a member of the World XI that played three T20s in Lahore this week, and on Friday his side lost the final game, and with it the series. Cameron was in Lahore to discuss a potential tour to Pakistan

by West Indies in November.

After the game, the World-XI players lined up to receive medals from Cameron, who was part of the awards ceremony.

Hashim Amla was first in line, followed

by Tamim Iqbal, Paul Collingwood, David Miller and then Sammy. As Tamim received his medal, Sammy turned away before jogging off. That sequence of events could clearly be seen on broadcast footage.

Was it a snub? Not according to Sammy, who famously took a very public pop at his board in the immediate aftermath of winning the World T20 in 2016, which ultimately led to his removal from the T20 captaincy just four months later. That was part of a bitter contractual dispute between players and the board that only now seems to be coming to an end.

In July, the CWI offered “temporary amnesty” to players who earlier did not

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, September 20, 2017

fit the selection criteria to make themselves available for ODIs. Consequently Chris Gayle is part of the West Indies limitedovers squad for the England series, which begins with the lone Twenty20 in Durham on Saturday.

But Sammy, whose last match for the West Indies was the World Twenty20 final last April, has been ignored by the selectors.

Soon after the last game in Lahore, Sammy said to ESPNcricinfo that he hadn’t walked away from Cameron but had instead rushed off back to the dressing room for a toilet break. It is, he added, what he also did during the PSL final, where he had led Peshawar Zalmi to the title at the same venue.

Two voices from inside the WorldXI dressing room, however, say that a snub is precisely what it was. Sammy, they say, does not want to have anything to do with Cameron.

Interestingly, Samuel Badree, Sammy’s one-time West Indies team-mate, and a member of the World XI did accept his medal from Cameron, even though he has also in the past expressed strong reservations about Cameron.

- Trinidad Guardian