Candles of Hope Keep on Burning 112112

Candles of Hope keep on Burning

By Cindy Ramkumar TORONTO -- What would you do if you were told you have a life threatening disease?

How would you feel if your life is about to change? Would your way of life be changed suddenly? These are questions to ponder, as persons without cancer, need not pay heed or tend to say I don’t need to think about this right now. Persons diagnosed with cancer live with these unanswered questions daily.

Candles of Hope, founded in 2009

by Yogeeta Jhodhan, Chris Shivcharran, and Subrina Persad, assisted by a team of tireless selfless volunteers, has raised over $20,000.00 for the Canadian Cancer Society. Their latest formal dinner and dance

fundraiser took place on Saturday 17th November 2012 at Forum Banquet Hall. This event was well attended, with the majority of contributors and volunteers being youths, teenagers, aged 26 and below.

Upon entry, Pianist Rohan Sham, a 17 year old student of Mississauga Secondary, welcomed everyone with his beautiful symphonies. He is a dedicated supporter of Candles of Hope, as he has played piano at each event since 2009.

Attendees were entertained and serenaded by Nisha Sankar. This 10 year old student at Joseph A Gibson School, opened the event with “O Canada”, then wowed the crowd with “Hero”, a very powerful voice for a petite young lady. Steel Pan Revolu-

tion, Neil and Erin Sookdeo, captured the spotlight during the cocktail hour. Other entertainments were the coordinated fashion show, latin and soca dances, displays of henna art to name a few.

According to Jennifer Tremaine, Fund Raising Coordinator at the Canadian Cancer Society, monies raised from events such as the Candles of Hope, funds research, and advocate methods of prevention of cancer. There are over 200 different types of cancer, and through involvement of Organisations like Candles of Hope, more advance strides in research take place for example a new pill was developed which reduces chances of hereditary breast cancer.

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Dancehall takes aim at India

JAMAICA (JO) -- A new market is opening for dancehall/reggae in India.

Just days ago, Sean Paul wrapped three shows there. In December, Julian Marley is scheduled to perform in the country which has one of the world’s fastest growing economies.

Prashant Kumar, director of Blue Note Entertainment, the company responsible for bringing Sean Paul to India, has been in music promotion for six years.

He had never witnessed a reggae performance, even though he is a fan of the Grammy-winning deejay.

After a proposed tour of India by Sean Paul fell through five years ago, Kumar and his company decided to do something about it.

“Our team decided to get some reggae acts in India and try to do something different from what was happening here and

we got Sean Paul. The tour of Sean Paul was very successful and people loved it,” he told the Jamaica Observer via e-mail.

Sean Paul performed in the cities of Bangalore, New Delhi and Mumbai.

Kumar said his team believes in giving Indian audiences variety.

“Reggae was unexplored in India and we are glad that we got it here. India is a big market for all kinds of music and awareness about reggae will definitely help it grow in India,” he said.

Kumar stated he is trying to put together a reggae festival next year with the help of Jamaican promotion company, Headline Entertainment. He believes the music would be even more popular in his homeland if artistes collaborated with Bollywood acts.

Bollywood is India’s thriving film sector which churns out countless movies annually. It is a multimillion-dollar industry.

WestJet links Canada, T&T with direct flights Rudiana, 20, half Guyanese and half Brazilian from New York is in her second year of college majoring in psychology and international studies and plans on pursuing a career in Journalism.

This beauty is also an experience model showing up in the Caribbean scene. “I love what I do and it’s my passion.” In her spare time, Rudiana loves playing Volleyball.

You could be our next editions “TC Girl”! To enter, send your photo and a brief description to info@torontocaribbean.com

TRINIDAD (TG) -- Trinidad and Tobago’s High Commissioner to Canada Philip Buxo is praising WestJet Airlines for introducing direct flights to T&T. Buxo did so at the launch of the airline’s inaugural flight from Toronto’s Pearson International Airport on Friday.

WestJet will operate daily non-stop service between Toronto and Port-of-Spain.

Flight (WS 2772) departs Toronto at 11.30 pm and arrives in Port-of-Spain at 6 am and

Flight (WS 2773) departs Port-of-Spain at 7 am and arrives in Toronto at noon. Philip said the airline “will play an instrumental role in serving both countries and enhancing easier travel of our nationals as well as strengthen trade and economic ties between our two countries.”

He said the new flights from West Jet will allow people to enjoy even more value and convenience from their local airports as they plan their travel to and from T&T.

Shot Chinese businessman loses organ, left semi-paralyzed GUYANA (DW) -- The Chinese businessman, who was shot Saturday evening on Regent Street, has lost one of his kidneys and he is semi-paralyzed, medical sources told Demerara Waves.

24-year old John Tian Xiang of 45 Robb Street, Georgetown sustained one entry and exit bullet wound but sources say he could have been possibly shot more than once based on the injuries.

He lost his right kidney and is paralyzed from the waist downwards.

Xiang is in the High Dependency Unit where his condition is being monitored even as he awaits further tests including Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) on Monday.

Eyewitnesses at the scene said that around 6 PM four gunshots rang out and the robbers were shortly after seen fleeing on a

CG motorcycle.

The injured man has been identified as 24-year oldd John Tian Xiang of 45 Robb Street, Georgetown. Several Chinese nationals were at the Georgetown Public Hospital waiting while the man was undergoing emergency surgery. He was subsequently taken to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

The incident occurred outside the C and F Building, Regent Street between Camp and Alexander Streets.

Demerara Waves was told that the bandits did not get any cash but managed to grab only an I-Phone. The eyewitnesses said that when police arrived on the scene, they recovered a cellular phone that might have been droppedby one of the perpetrators.

Xiang was attacked while De Ling Xing, a 32-year old woman, was closing the business for the day

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

The Caribbean Children Foundation (TCCF), even angels need guardians

Cindy Ramkumar Reporter TORONTO -- Saturday 10th November 2012 at Empire Banquet Hall, hundreds of angels converged to celebrate TCCF, its achievements and honour its contributors.

As an organisation, 12 years in operation, over 1 million dollars has been raised by its tireless, selfless volunteers. Every penny raised goes to the children, there are no paid staff, and no administrative costs.

TCCF is committed to assisting critically ill kids of the English Speaking Caribbean including Guyana, who are in need

of medical assistance, at hospitals in and out of Canada, such as the Hospital for Sick Kids in Toronto. So far, TCCF has assisted 54 children from 7 Caribbean countries.

TCCF contribution to Sick Kids per child is $25,000. If additional funds are needed for medical assistance, the Herbie Fund contributes the remainder of the money.

MC for the night was DJ Riyad Mohammed of G98.7FM. He definitely kept the crowd awake, as there was no moments of boredom or fatigue. Attendees to this event generously dipped into their pockets and gave generously of cheques and cash all night to the TCCF. One such dedicated contributior is, Gayah Mahabir. He lost his battle to cancer this summer, however his wish in lieu of flowers for his funeral, persons donate funds in the form of cheques to the TCCF. There were also various friends of TCCF Presentations, some include by the Brij Team, IGAP and Trinidad and Tobago

50th Anniversary Gala, Festival Management Committee (FMC) and Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival Toronto to name a few.

Kayle Ojah and Sayeeda Hosein-Silochan received outstanding TCCF Volunteer Awards. Macomere Fifi, 2012 Calypso Monarch Toronto entertained the audience with her two renditions `Mother and Daughter` and `I ain`t taking no more`.

Persons interested in assisting this remarkable foundation, can assist by Event Sponsorship, volunteering, supporting major fundraising events, and donating by Pay Pal, cheque, credit or debit. TCFF has planned five events for 2013, Be My valentine Roses, Choccolates & Diamonds in Februrary, Spring Fling in April, Boat Cruise in July, Caribbean Flava Summa Lime in August and the Anniversary Angel Gala in November. For further info on how to donate or volunteer feel free to contact the TCCF at 905840-5369

Guyana Crime Chief reports no evidence of gangs operating in Guyana - smuggling, piracy, drugs major concerns GUYANA (GC) -- Guyana’s Crime Chief, Deputy Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud said Friday that the biggest security concerns and threats from crime come from gangs operating in societies.

Addressing acting Police Commissioner Leroy Brumell and other senior officers of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) as that august body announced its Christmas security plan Persaud explained that so far the Force has been unable to muster evidence and information suggesting that gangs are operating in Guyana.

He also reported on patterns of serious crime; issues relating to criminal gangs; strategies and challenges; and previews on efforts of narcotics law enforcement officers to control crime.

Persaud explained that while there is evidence and intelligence from information gathered -- organising logistics by putting them together prior to carrying out certain crimes -- there is still no evidence that those persons who are involved in the execution of the robberies stick together to form a gang unit.

He said the interests of the persons who come together to carry out those acts

are personal, and once the deed is done, they usually separate with no allegiance to each other. No doctrines and any other form of sub-cultural behaviours are followed.

Persaud said there are a few drug trafficking gangs which are of major interest to the Force, but they are not operational in Guyana. Those gangs are primarily involved in the trafficking of cocaine, and they use Guyana as a transhipment point for drugs destined for other countries.

He said there are a few groups which also focus on both cocaine and cannabis.

An issue which has long been a major concern for persons living in this country is the presence of foreign terrorists or criminals operating out of Guyana.

Persaud made it clear that for all its intelligence, the Guyana Police Force has failed to provide any evidence that ethnic and extremist gangs are present on these shores. Further, there has been no hard evidence to prove that gangs exist in the local education and school system.

Persaud said the Force, in particular the Special Branch, continuously engages the Welfare Department of the Education

Ministry, and information is shared on developments in the school system.

He spoke of the work of the Crime Intelligence Unit and the Special Branch Unit which continually focuses on operations in school, and explained that while there has been evidence that there are some amount of groupings involving young people, the Force is of the view that those groupings would expand and develop into gangs only if they are not addressed.

Persaud said the Force has a measure which it feels can assist in dismantling a gang in the making -- working with relatives and parents of those young people who form those groupings. He described the approach as a positive form of handling that development.

The Guyana Police Force has been working with communities, organizing youth groups and clubs in those areas. Persaud said the Force realises that crime needs to be treated like a way of life, and attempts must be made to put systems in place to prevent crime.

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Give us a proper market JAMAICA (JO) -- As the busy Christmas season approaches, vendors here are again highlighting the need for a proper market facility.

The vendors, most of whom ply their trade on the street, want the Clarendon Parish Council to build a shopping arcade in the town centre, which they believe will put an end to selling in unauthorised areas.

They are also urging the council to regulate night vending, which they said proves more profitable than selling at daytime.

The concerns were raised at a meeting inside the council chambers on Wednesday evening with Mayor of May Pen Scean Barnswell, Central Clarendon Member of Parliament Mike Henry, and Head of the Clarendon Police Division Senior Superin-

tendent of Police Michael Bailey.

The meeting was called as vendors continue to protest the council’s decision to put them in the municipal market, which was recently given a facelift. They are, however, refusing to use the facility, noting that,

among other things, it is too small.

“I challenge any one of you to show me where in the market there is space to sell clothes,” a vendor told the gathering to the approval of her colleagues.

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Kublalsingh: We don’t want to meet PM TRINIDAD (TG) -- Dr Wayne Kublalsingh has not eaten a morsel of food, or tasted a drop of water in four days and it shows.

His face is gaunt, eyes sunken and his voice is weak. His hands shake due to severe dehydration. But the environmental activist insists that even as he gets weaker, support for his cause is growing.

During a brief interview at Palms Club, San Fernando, yesterday, Kublalsingh said he will not give up his struggle to reroute the highway. “It’s my fourth day now, no water and no food, so I am getting dehydrated. I will last today but I think that something radical is going to happen to my body tomorrow,” he said.

More than 25 supporters from the Highway Reroute Movement accompanied Kublalsingh to the Movement for Social Justice (MSJ) party congress. All the supporters, including members of Kublalsingh’s family, will picket outside the Prime Minister’s office at St Clair, this morning.

Asked whether his family supports his struggle, Kublalsingh said initially they were horrified when he told them of his intentions. “Originally they were not supportive but I told them that if they want to put pressure on anybody, then put pressure on the Government. Don’t put pressure on me, put pressure on the Prime Minister,” he said.

Kublalsingh said he doesn’t know how his son, who is studying law, feels about his hunger strike. “I don’t know how my son is taking this but I want everybody to know that this action has to be done, whatever the consequences.” Kublalsingh, who holds a

BA, M Phil (University of the West Indies); MA (Columbia University, New York) and a Doctor of Philosophy (Oxford University), said he will fight the highway construction with his last breath.

“We wrote to the Prime Minister, she is our leader. I was sitting two feet from her and she promised to do a review. She promised to put this on hold. We don’t want to meet with her. We want her to commit to the undertaking she promised which is that she will set up an independent committee to review and put on hold the project that will devastate 13 communities.

We want her to have all the technical experts look at the project and get an independent scientific review of it. That is all we want, a commitment from her to review this project,” Kublalsingh said.

He said the Prime Minister must honour her obligation to the people. “I will not relent in my fasting and hunger strike until we get some word from her that she will treat with this matter,” he added. Kublalsingh said his decision to embark on a hunger strike came after a lot of thought.

“The people of Debe to Mon Desir are very tired and they too are exhausted.

I have to help them—this is my last step.”

Kublalsingh called on the public to defend more than 300 families displaced by the dust of the highway. “They have suffered long enough. We need the support of everybody, the political parties, the trade unions, to come and help our people. This is my way of bringing attention to this struggle,” he said.

Vendors lobby for arcade, night selling in May Pen Continued From Page 3 -- “It’s a shame!

We don’t have a market; it can’t even hold 10 people good. May Pen needs an arcade,” she said.

“We don’t have a proper place to sell because the market is stink,” another vendor said. “Just give us a proper market and we will stay in there. We are paying market fees, so just work with us and we will work with you,” she added.

While giving no short-term guarantees, Barnswell identified Muir Park, which is currently being used as a transport centre, as a possible location for an arcade. He stressed that it will come at “a cost”, especially since the May Pen Market is operating at a loss, adding that the local authority would first have to find a suitable replacement for the bus park.

“Yes, we are looking into building an arcade, but that means certain persons will have to be inconvenienced,” Barnswell said.

“We have been trying to facilitate you,” the mayor told the vendors, “but it is difficult when you are operating at a deficit; the May Pen Market is operating at a loss. We have to be subsidising it from other areas that

are doing well.”

Henry, the longstanding Jamaica Labour Party MP for Central Clarendon, backed the vendors in their call for night vending.

“There is no law that stops night vending,” Henry said. “There are regulations under the parish council that can allow it, so I will be asking my councillors to take a resolution to the parish council to allow for night vending,” he said.

Henry also urged SSP Bailey to take complaints made against one of his officers, whom the vendors labelled as unprofessional, seriously.

Bailey responded: “You can rest assured that it will be dealt with. You will see improvements.”

Meanwhile, Barnswell urged the vendors to register with the parish council, warning that persons who refuse to do so will be prevented from plying their wares.

Registration will begin in January and will run for a week at St Gabriel’s Anglican Church Hall. It will attract an annual fee of $2,500.

“You will be given ID cards specifying where you should vend,” Barnswell said.

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Candles of hope Continued From Page 1 -- Also, a new pill was created which replaces chemotherapy if cancer is diagnosed in the first and second stage. The Canadian Cancer society also provide free transportation by volunteers who dedicate their time to pick up, wait at the hospital and return cancer patients to their home.

Tim McCuire, delivered a powerful video and verbal presentation on his diagnosis of Stage 4 cancer, and his determination to survive and beat the cancer. Tim is now cancer

free, a member of the Great Next Chapter, and is dedicated to delivering his message on positive attitude and its importance in fighting the war on cancer.

Candles of Hope look forward to your support in 2013, as its event promises to be bigger and better than 2012. I walked away from this event, with a very thought provoking line which I would like to share “ We don’t get to choose when we die, or how we die, however we get to choose how we will live.”

Smuggling, piracy, drugs major concerns Continued From Page 3 -- He disclosed that the Force is working to change the thinking of some of the young people in those communities, and to ensure that they are gainfully occupied in an effort to change certain behaviours, and to ensure that their spare time is occupied in ways that will help them to think conventionally.

Also of interest to the Guyana Police Force is the issue of cross-border smuggling, which according to Persaud remains the biggest treat because of the infrastructure it provides to the drug traffickers and terrorists in their own networks, both in communication and in transportation.

Another issue highlighted was that of piracy, wherein it was mentioned that the

incidents showed that fishermen were actually being robbed by their fellow fishermen in most cases.

Evidence and investigations have revealed that when it comes to the acts of piracy in Suriname waters, the fishermen who are victims of piracy are Guyanese, and the perpetrators are their fellow Guyanese who are involved in piracy.

He said local authorities have been collaborating with Surinamese authorities to provide intelligence and information to assist that country in its fight against piracy. Local authorities hope this would greatly assist in reducing the instances of piracy and bringing it under control.

KI sweeps Chutney Foundation awards TRINIDAD (TG) -- The National Chutney Foundation of T&T (NCFTT) intends to petition the Government for help in staging its International Chutney Soca Monarch competition scheduled for February 9, 2013. This was announced by Dr Vijay Ramlal, founder and president of the NCFTT, at the association’s annual awards ceremony at Gaston Court, Chaguanas, on Thursday night.

Ramlal said the NCFTT had been lobbying for funds for the past two years without success to get the show going. He said T&T was in danger of having this competition slip out of its hands if another country decided to stage one with a similar name. He said artistes from 24 countries are interested in participating in the competition, many of which had taken a liking to chutney, but were not nationals of T&T. Minister of the Arts and Multiculturalism Dr Lincoln Douglas said chutney music was uniquely a product of T&T that should find its place on the stage with other world offerings. He said T&T had its own unique culture that differentiated it from that found in the ancestral homelands of the peoples of T&T, and his ministry was committed to putting culture on centre stage through several measures

poised to make his ministry the top government agency.

Among the awards presented: • KI Persad took most of the awards for his 2012 hit Single Forever. He copped the awards for Song of the Year, the Ras Shorty I Award, Entertainer of the Year, Best Male Chutney Soca Artiste, Most Performed Chutney Artiste Locally and Internationally, Most Exported Song of the Year (remix with Machel Montano) and the Chutney Melody Composer Award.

• Shivanna Ragoonanan took an award for her role in using the steelpan to cross cultural barriers.

• Rooplal Gildharie collected the Legends Award.

• Anthony Batson won the Junior Chutney Soca of the Year Award.

• Vekash Sahadeo won the award for the most promising Chutney Soca artiste.

• Ramdeen “Falco” Maharaj copped the award for the most patriotic song in celebration of Independence.

• Saleem Beharry was adjudged the Breakthrough Artiste of the Year.

• Hemlata Dindial won the Best Traditional Song for the Year with her song Basanti

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Exercises to alleviate knee pain

Geeta Maraj Contributor Knee pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint from which many people suffer for a variety of reasons. There are several strengthening and weight bearing exercises in yoga which benefit the knee. While stretches and exercises are beneficial to the knee, it is equally important to pay attention to one’s weight, gait and posture.

The main function of the knee is to bend and straighten in order to help with moving the body. The knee also twists and rotates so as to assist our seated posture. In order to perform these actions, as well as, support the entire body, the knee relies on a number of structures, including bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles and cartilages.

The knee joint consists of three bones: The top portion of the joint is the thighbone or femur; the tibia is the bottom portion of the joint; the kneecap or patella is the third bone of the knee.

Ligaments are fibrous bands which connect bones to each other. Tendons are fibrous bands, similar to ligaments. However, instead of connecting bones to other bones, as ligaments do, tendons connect muscles to

bones. Muscles are fibrous tissues which aid in moving parts of the body through a series of contractions. Cartilage provides both space and cushion for the knee joint.

Exercise helps to strengthen and tone the muscles, ligaments, and tendons around the knees. This, in turn, helps with flexibility, range of motion, and balance of the knees. While we may have a tendency to decrease mobility of a joint which is aching, the opposite is necessary for pain reduction.

The following exercises can aid in achieving this goal.

1. To stretch and warm up all muscles in the body: Stand with your feet a foot length apart and knees slightly bent. Roll your head forward so as to bring your chin toward your chest. Then continue to roll your spine in a forward bend until your hands come toward your toes and you are bending from the hips completely. Go only as far as is comfortable.

Let your arms hang loosely. Hold the stretch for five slow breaths. To come back into an upright position, place your hands on your knees and walking your hands up your legs until you come to a standing position again.

Repeat a few times until you feel your muscles are warm and your body feels relaxed and stretched.

2. Stretching your quadriceps: From a standing position, place your right hand on the wall or the back of a chair for support. Bend your left leg behind you, and grab it just above the ankle with your left hand. Pull the ankle backward toward your buttocks. Hold the stretch to the

count of 5 seconds, then release the leg slowly and shake it out (to bring better circulation to the leg). Repeat stretch on the opposite leg.

3. Hamstring Stretch: Sit on the floor with your legs together and stretched out in front of you. Push out your heels - as if you are trying to point with your heels. Then relax them and flop your legs on the ground to bring better circulation to your legs. This stretch can be done one leg at a time or both legs together.

Only push your heels forward to your capability and do not try to rush the stretch. As you become more flexible you will find you are able to point your heels more intensely.

This exercise can also be practiced sitting in a chair, as you sit upright. Keep both feet on the floor with knees bent at a 90 degree angle. Then stretch out one leg at a time and point the heel as far outright as is possible.

Hold for 5 seconds, and then relax the leg.

Repeat on the opposite side.

4. Weight bearing exercise Standing close to the wall for support or holding onto the back of a chair – step away to arms length from the wall or chair. Keep the spine straight, place all your weight on the left leg by bending the right knee. Slowly, place your right toes on the ground as if you are trying to go on your tiptoe (keeping your toes on the ground helps to keep you balanced). Hold the position for 5 to 10 seconds and then repeat on the opposite leg.

5. Additional weight bearing exercise Brace against a wall - trying to keep

your back completely against the wall. Keep your legs slightly apart. Slowly pretend you are sliding down the wall as if to come in a seated position. Place your hands on your thighs or knees for support. Only lower your body to where it is comfortable to you and try not to rush the pose. Do not drop your buttocks lower than your knees. Hold the position for 5 seconds and then slide back up the wall. Repeat this exercise a few times based on the strength of your legs, otherwise, slowly build up to additional repetitions.

Once you have completed this series of stretches, then you can practice number one again to end your exercise routine.

Along with these exercises it is important to understand the impact of one’s weight on the knees. A 2008 review article in the Journal for Obesity found that being overweight leads to increased wear and tear of the knees, increasing the likelihood of knee replacement surgery. Considering that each step we make, we put one to one-and-ahalf times our body weight on each knee, it is important to control our body mass in an effort to prevent knee damage.

Likewise, our gait is important in preventing knee damage. When we step, our weight should be evenly distributed on our feet. Our toes should point forward and not be turned inward or too much outward. Poor walking habits put extra pressure on our knees by making some muscles tighten and others getting too loose as we walk. So keep your knees healthy by taking care of the rest of the body and prevent agonizing discomfort as you age.

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Bassarath hails Windies cricketers

The T&T Cricket Board (T&TCB) has congratulated the West Indies for their comprehensive victory on Saturday over Bangladesh in Mirpur.

Spurred on by a match-winning bowling haul of five wickets for 5-24 in 12.3 overs on the last day by Tino Best, West Indies defeated the hosts by 77-runs.

Azim Bassarath, president of the T&TCB, said the regional side’s performance demonstrated that they are developing into a well-knit unit capable of rising up the international ladder and reclaiming their place among the top teams in the world.

Within the last year the Caribbean cricketers have beaten New Zealand in a home series, spectacularly won the ICC World T20 Championships in Sri Lanka last month and have now beaten Bangladesh on their home turf.

“What we are seeing is the West Indies cricketers coming into their own and playing to their true abilities. The founda-

tion is being laid for a new, confident team backed by supportive administration to assert themselves on their much more fancied opponents after being regarded for so long as a sick team of world cricket,” said Bassarath.

The T&TCB leader said he was especially pleased with the batting performances of young Nevisian Kieran Powell who became the first player since Brian Lara in 2001 to score two centuries in a test.

“Powell is a player who has come out of the regional development cricket programme at the Sagicor Youth Academy which has been copied from the successes we have enjoyed here in T&T over the years,” said Bassarath.

Also registering significant milestones in the match were veteran left-handed batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul, the oldest player in the team, who made an unbeaten 203 in the first innings to draw level with Sir Gary Sobers with 31 Test centuries joint second to only Lara’s 34.

And Bassarath was also high in praise for T&T captain Denesh Ramdin who also smashed an unbeaten 127 to help West Indies build a formidable total and set the stage for their eventual victory.

“We are extremely happy for Ramdin as he is showing the kind of maturity and level-headedness that has been the hallmark of his growing career. His innings showed he does possess the talent and class and a commitment to the regional cause that has made him a natural leader,” said Bassarath.

Bassarath also said the other T&T cricketers on the Test team, Darren Bravo, Sunil Narine and Ravi Rampaul had also distinguished themselves in the match by making useful contributions.

The T&TCB cricket boss said he is confident that the West Indies cricketers will build on their success for the remainder of the Bangladesh tour and finish 2012

on a high note and celebrate one of its most successful in recent years.

“We must also commend the regional selectors who have been pilloried in the past but are now enjoying the resounding acclaim of the entire region. Indeed they have been making the correct calls and the players are repaying the confidence placed in them,” said Bassarath.

Premier Parry hails Powell achievement

CHARLESTOWN -- Nevis Premier Joseph Parry has hailed the achievement of West Indies opening batsman Kieran Powell after the player lashed a centuries in each innings of the first Test against Bangladesh.

Powell, the sixth Nevisian to play Test cricket, hit 117 in the first innings and 110 in the second, as West Indies pulled off a 77-run victory on Saturday’s final day at the

Shere Bangla Stadium.

Parry said he had texted Powell to congratulate him.

“What an illustrious company to be in, and you are the first Eastern Caribbean cricketer joining eight other outstanding West Indian men who made two hundreds in one match,” Parry told Powell.

The 22-year-old became the nine West Indian and the first in 11 years to achieve the feat, while joining Gordon Greenidge as only the second opener.

He joined a list of illustrious of players including the peerless Sir Garry Sobers, George Headley and Sir Clyde Walcott.

The prodigious Brian Lara was the last player to accomplish the feat.

Powell has now scored three centuries in 12 Tests following his maiden hundred against New Zealand last July. (CMC)

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T&TCB gives $1.2m to clubs, zones The Trinidad and Tobago Cricket (T&TCB) has approved the disbursement of over $1.2 million to clubs and zones to manage and improve the affairs of local cricket for the 2013 season.

In a press release which followed a three-day retreat at the Cascadia Hotel from November 9-11, the Board noted that all seven zones, including Tobago will get $50,000 to assist in the administration of its affairs.

All national league clubs will each receive $10,000.

The T&TCB executive re-stated its commitment to seek financial and other support for clubs participating in its competitions. The Board has written the Ministry of Sport, and said it was pleased that some assistance may be forthcoming from the Sport Company.

The Board also revealed it has commissioned a special team to prepare and monitor the national team for all three Regional tournaments in 2013. “Our national team will be participating in the three formats of the game during the period January 6 - May 15. The Regional Twenty-20 tournament runs from January 6 -20, while the Regional four-day tournament and 50 over competition is set to follow soon after. In addition to this, the West Indies team is due to visit Australia from February 1-14. Immediately following this, Zimbabwe will be in the Caribbean for three ODIs, two T-20’s and two test matches.”

The Board said that given the crowded schedule, it felt that special attention should be given to the national team.

“This project team will deal specifically with matters related to the national team for the regional tournaments only.”

The Board also decided that a talent search will be implemented throughout the country to raise interest and identify talent for further development. This initiative will be done on a zonal basis and a committee headed by the cricket operations manager, will take responsibility for implementation.

The Board noted that given the importance of the school system in influencing the future of our young sportsmen and women, on and off the playing fields, it had taken a decision to meet with the administrators of schools cricket, to engender greater collaboration between all three entities. “The intention is to foster increased participation by boys and girls, and to encourage healthy lifestyles and discipline through sport, in general, and cricket in particular.”

Apart from the talent search. the Board will also implement the following: • Introduction to cricket at kindergarten level: This will see 12 teachers trained to be early inductors of cricket to pre-school children. The pilot will commence with six schools in County Caroni and six schools in Victoria. The territorial development officer of the WICB will have responsibility for this project.

• Primary schools cluster coaching (PSCL: The PSCL has proposed a unique cluster coaching concept, with selected students, at eight centres throughout T&T. The PSCL, in conjunction with the coaching and youth development committee will roll out

this programme.

• Level II coaching course: A level II coaching course will be held in Trinidad from December 16-19. Twenty-eight coaches will participate in this capacity-building exercise. The TTCB has extended an invitation to the Windward and Leeward Islands Cricket Boards to each send one participant to this course. The course will be facilitated

by Australian tutor Darren Holder.

The T&TCB also discussed the

possibility of a collaborative effort by all National Sporting Organisations to encourage greater participation in sport by all citizens. “Our recent Olympic successes clearly demonstrate that the talent exists to produce elite athletes in various sporting disciplines.”

The Board also praised the Government’s position on programmes that have a positive impact on the nation’s youth, such as Hoop of Life, Sport for Life and related efforts.

Windies win good for test cricket, says ICC president DHAKA -- International Cricket Council president, Alan Isaac has described West Indies’ victory over Bangladesh in the just concluded first Test as a great advert for the game.

Isaac, who took over the post last June, arrived in Bangladesh for two days of meetings with the Bangladesh Cricket Board and Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina but took in the last day’s play at Shere Bangla Stadium.

West Indies came from behind to win by 77 runs after the hosts had been set 245 for victory.

“The trip gave me not only a chance to meet the new Bangladesh Cricket Board President Nazmul Hassan and new ICC Vice President AHM Mustafa Kamal but also to see Test cricket at its most exciting,” he said.

“If there was ever a match which encapsulated the enduring appeal of Test

cricket and its unique narrative, it was this clash between Bangladesh and the West Indies.”

Led by 29 runs on first innings, West Indies were dismissed for 273 in their second innings, setting Bangladesh a modest victory target.

However, fast bowler Tino Best bagged five for 24 in a devastating spell to propel the visitors to a convincing win and a 1-0 lead in the two-Test series.

Isaac, who replaced India’s Sharad Pawar as ICC President, met officials here to discuss plans for the 2014 Twenty20 World Cup scheduled to be held here.

“It was enlightening to see the outstanding academy facilities as well as hear the ambitious plans for future developments in Bangladesh, the hosts of the ICC World Twenty20 in 2014,” he said. (CMC)

10 Wednesday, November 21, 2012

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Caribbean Pot: Baiganee a vegetarian classic

Chris De La Rosa Contributor Though a very popular side dish/snack sold by many road-side vendors in Trinidad and Tobago, our only encounter with these tasty treats came yearly. Our mom’s cousin would always invite us to her home for Divali, where she would have a buffet of Indian influenced dishes and treats waiting for us. I can still remember that distinct scent of coconut oil burning in the deyas and the lovely aroma from the variety of dishes she prepared earlier in the day. Cousin Ivy is no longer with us (sadly), but the wonderful memories we have of her and the influence she’s made in my culinary journey will never be forgotten.

As part of the ‘party food’ theme for the month of November, I know you’ll be greeted with rave reviews after serving up a batch of these. * In Trinidad and Tobago eggplant is sometimes called baigan.. maybe that’s where we get baiganee from?

Ingredients I large eggplant (baigan.. about 1.5 lbs) 1 cup split peas powder/flour 1 clove garlic (crushed) 1 teaspoon salt (for eggplant)

1/4 teaspoon salt (for batter) Pinch curry powder 1/4 teaspoon tumeric powder 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 cup allpurpose flour 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 scotch bonnet pepper (minced) Water (see notes) 2 cups veg oil Note: I ended up using close to 1 1/2 cups of water in making the batter. You may have to adjust this slightly as the flours you’ll be using may be a bit different than the one I had. I used 2 smaller eggplant as I wanted them to be somewhat slim so the slices would not be like huge tires.

Wash, trim and dry the eggplant (cut off the stems and discard). Then cut into wheels about 1/4 inch thick.

The eggplant (baigan) usually has a sort of bitter aftertaste and contains a lot of moisture, so we need to remedy this. Line a cookie sheet or cutting board with paper towels (or tea towel), then arrange the sliced eggplant one layer thick. Now sprinkle the 1 teaspoon of salt over the cut surface (press into it), then flip over and do the other side.

Allow this to sit for about 1 hour. You’ll have soaked paper towels and beads of liquid on top of each slice of eggplant. Using a towel or more paper towels, blot (press) and soak up this moisture.

Set aside and lets make the batter.

Put all the dry ingredients into a bowl and give it a good whisk, to incorporate everything. Start adding water and whisk until you have a thick, well mixed batter. It’s important that the batter is thick (but runny enough) so it can coat each piece of eggplant.

It’s very important that the slices of eggplant are dry for the batter to really hold on to them. Tip: You can certainly dust each piece in flour before placing then into the batter if you wish. Heat the vegetable oil on a medium high flame, then set up a sort of frying station. You’ll have the slices of eggplant, the batter, the heated oil and a basket (or bowl) lined with paper towels to soak up the excess oil after they’re fried.

Dip each slice into the batter and coat evenly. Shake of excess batter and gently place into the hot oil. Cook for a minute on one side, then flip and cook for another minute. Cook for a minute or two after and flip for an even golden colour. They will float as they cook and will only take about 3-4 minutes to fully cook. Fish out with tongs and allow to drain on the paper towels.

Depending on the size of frying pan

you use, only fry about 3 slices at a time. Try not to over-crowd the pan, or you will alter the temperature of the oil and end up with soggy baiganee. These are best served warm and with a spicy dipping sauce. Mango chutney, tamarind sauce and other spicy condiments you can serve these with.

After further thought I think our mom never made these at home since we were not fans of it as children… oh how that’s changed over the years. This is a wonderful vegetarian treat to pass around during the holiday season and if you’re having guests over for Divali (or have no friends to invite you these days like me), you can whip up a batch of these… they’re sure to be a hit.

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Don’t feel bad about weight loss

Monique Bartlett Contributor Whenever you want to lose weight, usually the first thing that comes to mind is that you have to start a diet. Thus begins the dieting disasters. Dieting disasters start when you restrict your calories or starve yourself amongst other things. The problem is, once you start doing this you’re just forcing your body to want to binge. This is the cycle of yo-yo dieting. This destructive pattern can destroy your metabolism, your self confidence and your self-esteem. Starving yourself to lose weight and then breaking your promises to yourself when you binge sets you up for long term dieting disaster.

In reality, you don’t need to restrict yourself so much that you’re going to ruin all of your progress before you really even get the chance to begin. Losing weight doesn’t have to cause you depression and pain (both physically and emotionally).

Quit the binge-and-punish cycle, and fall in love with your body once and for all. If you’re used to restrictive diets and forcing yourself to use “food rules” or extreme workouts to get the body you want, then you need to rethink

things. The old-school way of losing weight such as restricting calories, crazy workouts, meal replacement, pills, surgery, and the list goes on, doesn’t work for most people because there’s something else going on underneath that never gets addressed.

Many people use food to give themselves things like relaxation, comfort, relieve stress, when we’re angry, sad or any other emotion you can pretty much think of. Finding out what is causing you to eat more than you should in the first place is the thing that needs to be shifted in order to permanently slim down. Don’t get me wrong, you will still need willpower, discipline, and self-control, but you won’t need severe re-

strictions, crazy rules and the need to feel guilt.

If you’re not in love with your body right now, that’s ok. We all have times in our lives when we don’t feel good about how we look or feel. Start writing down how you feel and how much you eat when you eating. If you start to notice patterns, that will be your key to change. The weight doesn’t go on overnight and it won’t come off overnight either, but be patient, discover what your unhealthy eating patterns are and start the change from there.

You can slim down once and for all.

It may take some time and some effort but if you stick to it, you will be able to succeed!

How to tell if you have a sinus infection or cold?

Trish Browning Contributor While the symptoms may be similar, there are some differences between the two conditions that can help you determine which one you have.

The main difference between the symptoms of a cold and sinus infection is how long they linger.

The common cold is caused by a viral infection in the upper airways, sinuses, throat and nose .There may also be a fever.

In the vast majority of cases, despite making you feel dreadful with all the sneezing, sore throat, cough, and runny nose, a cold is a self-limiting infection; this means it gets better on its own without requiring any special treatment. Most people get better within a week - in some cases, it may last a little longer.

A sinus infection will linger for seven days or more and are sometimes accompanied by a low-grade fever.

Here is a list of some common symptoms of a sinus infection. If you are experiencing some of these symptoms after 7 days it time to get to the doctor, you may be dealing with an infection which will require antibiotics in order to clear it up.

1. Pain and/or pressure in the area of your eyes or forehead. Or pain in the very top of your head - especially if the pain gets more

intense when you bend over or move your head quickly.

2. Sinus drainage. This can be any color from clear to greenish-yellow or even bloody. And it may not drain out your nose. Often your sinuses will drain down the back of your throat-and you swallow it.

3. Nausea or upset stomach-often caused by swallowing the drainage.

4. Fatigue-Even when you should feel rested 5. Blocked nasal or sinus passages. Especially at night. Are you sleeping with your mouth open because you can’t breathe through your nose when you lie down?

6. Poor sense of smell or taste?

7. Ear pain. It’s not uncommon for a bad sinus infection to spread to your inner ears.

8. Sore Throat.

9. Chills or fever 10. Tooth ache ( upper mouth) Here are a few things to do if you have a cold that will help you feel a little more comfortable.

Avoid becoming dehydrated drink plenty of water.

Getting plenty of rest will not only help alleviate some of the symptoms, and make you feel less miserable, it may also reduce the duration of your cold. Rest will help your immune system fight off the virus infection more effectively.

Salt water gargle - if you make a solution consisting of ¼ teaspoon of salt dissolved in 8 ounces of warm water and gargle, your sore throat symptoms may be temporarily relieved.

Lemon is beneficial in all types of cold with fever. Vitamin C-rich lemon juice increases body resistance, decreases toxicity and reduces the duration of the illness. One

lemon should be diluted in a glass of warm water, add a teaspoon of honey. This should be taken once or twice daily.

Ginger is another excellent remedy for colds and coughs. Grate a piece of the root, squeeze out the juice and add a bit of honey. Ginger tea, prepared by adding a few pieces of ginger into boiled water before adding the tea leaves.

Turmeric is an effective remedy for colds and throat irritations. Half a teaspoon of fresh turmeric powder mixed in 30 ml of warm milk and taken once or twice daily Cinnamon and honey mix ¼ tea spoon cinnamon with 1 teaspoon honey take several times a day. Both honey and cinnamon have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Immigration Matters: Ways to immigrate to Canada (Part 1)

Marva Kollar Contributor Canada’s immigration system is rather complex. Some filled the forms and “cheat success” oblivious to the existence of Canada’s Immigration Act and Regulations or the myriad of tools and resources used to make a Decision on their application. Years after obtaining Permanent Residence (PR) status, some families and accompanying family members seek representation to attend their Admissibility Hearings to stay in Canada for inadmissibility matters such as: misrepresentation, criminality and medical issues.

Some applicants run afoul of the law for non-compliance or violation of Canada’s immigration law are unable to obtain temporary or permanent residence status for reasons stated in refusal letters based on specific sections of the Act. Others described Canada’s immigration process as a maze and retain an Authorize Representative.

After all, choosing the right immigration program is a large determining factor that allows individuals and their accompanying family members to obtain temporary or permanent residence status in Canada. The opposite is also true, selecting

the wrong program or failure to comply with terms and conditions can also result in the entire family having their status revoked and be removed from Canada.

Let’s look at some of the programs from A – Z which allows you, our Readers the opportunity to make an informed decision about ways to immigrate to Canada.

Adoption Category: November is Adoption awareness month in Ontario and many families now seek to explore international adoption. An excellent time to be a Canadian Citizen as the adopted child will be granted Citizenship. Irrespective of the “adoption provisions” parents must meet program and provincial adoption criteria to be eligible to adopt.

Business Class: This category of immigration includes Self-employed, Entrepreneur and Investors. The Federal Entrepreneur program was temporarily stopped in July 2011. The Federal Investor program was also temporarily stopped in July 2012.

Nonetheless, business class individuals in these three categories of immigration may qualify in some province or territory and must meet provincial or territorial criteria.

Canadian Experience Class: Canada retention of skilled temporary foreign workers with Canadian work experience and International Students who studied in Canada. This program is currently under review. Nonetheless, both the current and the proposed new changes are perfect fit for individuals seeking to change from temporary to PR status.

Family Class Sponsorship (Spouse

& Common-Law): Sponsors are either Canadian Citizens or PRs, married or lives together for 12 months as Common-law Partners and are of opposite or same-sex.

They must meet sponsorship requirements and sponsored spouses recently inherited a 5-year banned from sponsoring a new spouse. Sponsors with criminal record are ineligible to sponsor.

Sponsored Persons are of opposite or same-sex; proves that they entered into a genuine and bona fide marriage or relationship. Effective October 26, 2012, some Sponsored Persons are granted 2-year conditional PR status. Failure to comply could result in the conditional PR status being revoked, charged criminally and be removed from Canada.

Family Class Sponsorship (Parents & GrandParents): This category of immigration has been on temporary pause since November 2011; however, Super-Visa allows

for a 2-year visit.

Family Class Sponsorship (Dependent): This category of immigration is open to sponsor children who are Dependents.

Federal Skilled Worker: This program is currently on temporary pause and is expected to re-open in “January 2013”.

Also called the “Points System” skilled immigrants in this category are awarded points based on; language, age, education, arrangement employment, adoptability and experience. The anticipated selection criteria and points allocation will differ as Canada seeks to attract a younger generation and prioritize occupations meeting Canada’s job market.

In 2013, Canada anticipates admitting over 50,000 individuals in this category.

Warning: Under Canada’s Immigration laws, it is illegal for an Unauthorized Representative to charge a fee for advice on immigration matters.

How learning to make decisions can change your life

JG Francoeur Contributor Years ago I was stuck in a business that was losing money and I knew I had to get out of it. Actually, I knew for about 18 months that I had to get out of it but I couldn’t make the decision. I’m not sure what I was afraid of but I wasn’t making the decision I knew I needed to make.

Perhaps you are in a business now or some other situation that you know you need to get out of. Or maybe you want to get into a new business or new situation but you’re just not making that decision.

WHY? Napoleon Hill, the author of the all time bestselling book Think & Grow Rich was right when he said “Analysis of over 25,000 men and women who had experienced failure, disclosed the fact that LACK OF DECISION was near the head of the list of the 30 major causes of FAILURE. PROCRASTINATION, the opposite of DECISION, is a common enemy which practically every man must conquer.”

Most people would rather stay in their comfort zone and live passive lives without accepting responsibilities. They

drill through life waiting for things to happen rather than making a decision and making things happen.

It’s been reported that 2 percent of the population actually THINK, 3 percent think they THINK and 95 percent would rather die than THINK. Without thinking you cannot make decisions.

I’ve been very fortunate to have built seven companies that operate around the globe in 26 countries and 78 industries and I have the honor and pleasure of traveling the world to speak to business owners and entrepreneurs and I’ve noticed that most people are simply trying to make it safely to death because they are afraid of making a wrong decision.

I tell all of my teams, partners, employees and students, “I would rather, much rather you make a bad decision than no decision at all”.

Decision-making is the number one reason people don’t achieve their goals. If they would just decide what they want and go after it, most of them would be amazed at how fast things happen. I urge you to learn to make decision. Decisionmaking is nothing but a skill set, it’s like a muscle and as you use you get better at it.

Start now with a decision you have been putting off. Just think for a moment and consider. There is surely something you need to do, a decision you need to make but you have been putting it off. Make that decision now and take action.

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Your Horoscope - November 21st 2012 Aries Horoscope (March 21-April 20): Mercury retrograde can produce a significant setback and necessitates a serious reassessment. The karmic undertone is not lost on you. Mars in Capricorn, starting Friday, pressures you to undertake an official next step. Venus in Scorpio, starting Wednesday, will help you devise a new strategy. By the end of the month, you should have it all figured out.

Taurus Horoscope (April 21-May 21): It’s not a done deal yet. You might have thought you could keep moving along, but you can’t overlook what’s staring you down. Starting Friday, Mars in Capricorn helps you gain a more realistic perspective on what should and needs to come next. The next couple of weeks will provide an opportunity to straighten out a critical financial or relationship matter.

Gemini Horoscope (May 23-June 20): Pressure is mounting. Mercury retrograde forces you to confront what’s holding you back. No matter how good the excuse sound bite is, it only serves to undermine you and diminish your game. Resistance is futile, improvement is imperative. The stars now push you through an intensified work-itout cycle regarding health, your job, an emotional block, or a financial challenge.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21-July 20): You’ve been on a taxing marathon as of late. Realize it or not, you’ve fought your way through a large percentage of the hard part. The pressure buildup will continue, but with a slightly different focus. Mars in Capricorn and Venus in Scorpio inch you closer to the end of the month and a long-awaited finish line.

Leo Horoscope (July 21Aug. 22): Mercury’s backtrack can plunge you into a deeper examination of your emotional attachments, subconscious motives, and security drives.

Family matters and finances could get more complicated now. Mars in Capricorn, starting Friday, sets you onto task. Do what you can as you can, and don’t worry about tomorrow’s pile-up until you get there.

Next Wednesday through the month’s end, you’ll push past plenty.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug. 23Sept. 22): As is typical of Mercury retrograde, a change of plans can be necessary and advantageous. A communication or transportation challenge could plague you. If you can’t wait on a major decision or purchase, build in as much leeway as you can. Wednesday flicks a major switch. As circumstances play out, lingering doubt is removed. Off with the old, on with the new.

Libra Horoscope (Sept. 23Oct. 22): Venus in Libra continues to bring added favour and attention your way. You have more on brew and more at stake than is readily evident. As of next Wednesday, Venus in Scorpio takes a relationship or financial investment to a deeper and more all-consuming level. While Mercury continues in retrograde, you’ll discover how entrenched you are and just how resourceful you can be.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): It seems you have more than the usual to sort out now. Mercury’s backtrack into Scorpio can keep you especially wrapped up through month’s end. Starting Friday, Mars in Capricorn should help you to gain a better handle on what’s working and what’s not.

You can rely on Venus in Scorpio, starting Wednesday, to sharpen your instincts and your chess game.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov. 22-Dec. 20): Now that Mercury retrograde has backtracked into Scorpio, it’s a good idea to take a step back and place yourself in observation, study, or research mode. As of Friday, Mars in Capricorn can increase the pressure or strain, but it should also help you to rein yourself in better. As best you can, don’t allow yourself to waste your time, health, heart, or money.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec. 21-Jan. 20): Mercury retrograde can put you back in touch, perhaps surprisingly so. Expect to bump into people you know more frequently through month’s end. You’ll find a chance to revisit something you couldn’t get off the ground previously. As of Friday, the big push is officially on. Mars in Capricorn pumps up your ambition and feistiness.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan. 21-Feb. 18): Dealings with authority or those in charge can be a greater challenge now that Mercury retrograde has backed into Scorpio. You could be forced to justify yourself or set better boundaries in your personal life. Venus in Scorpio, starting Wednesday, increases expectations—yours and theirs. Commit your all and you’ll upgrade your results.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb. 18-March 20): Beyond changes to your holiday plans and long-distance reconnections, Mercury retrograde also takes you through an intensified soulsearching chapter. The future is already set on its course. Is it what you want? If so, how do you make the most of it? If not, what can you relinquish in order to redirect your life?

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14 Wednesday, November 21, 2012

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Reign in 407ETR first! Then hold your hand out Q-Trex International, shipping with a difference

Tammy Flores Contributor On June 21st, 2012 I wrote an article titled “Can Highway 407 Ease our Congestion Woes”? In that article I pointed out how Mayor Hazel McCallion had a meeting with Premier McGuinty that caught all the media outlets off guard. Mayor Hazel met with Premier McGuinty to talk tough on raising taxes/tolls to fund a needed $40 billion dollar investment in infrastructure projects.

Most of the commentary surrounding this announcement focused on Public Transit.

Just last week I was put onto a YouTube video of that lovable Rick Mercer from 2009 where he interviewed Mayor Hazel.

The title of the video was RMR: Welcome to Mississauga. In the beginning of the video, Rick asks Mayor Hazel how she was able to be elected to office for over 31 years. Mayor Hazel says, “Well you have to look after your people and keep your taxes down and bring lots of jobs into the city ... we are debt free... the 6th largest city in Canada... 3rd largest in Ontario... and have $700 million in reserves”. Now that’s impressive! Ironically by the end of the video when Rick asks Mayor Hazel what if any regrets she had, her answer was “transportation was not a basis of our development, unfortunately therefore, we are now struggling to provide a major

Cindy Ramkumar Reporter

public transit system.”

Now that’s an honest answer. I admire her for her courage to admit that. There are some in the City of Mississauga that are disgruntled over the transportation crisis the City faces. One individual I spoke with is curious as to what happened to the most recent $17 million dollar investment in MiWay. I found his inquiry interesting as I was wondering why Mayor Hazel was looking to raise taxes/tolls for a further $40 million dollars for public transit if she has $700 million in reserves and $17 million had already been invested.

As many of you already know, I have been pushing to have the Province reign in 407ETR’s rising tolls & customer service issues. Municipalities should be planning for public transit as they grow, not wait and then say oops and make everyone else pay for that ... oversight. Any talk of tolls on existing highways should stop at once. First, reign in 407ETR & collect the $1 billion available there, then look for other ways to raise capital for badly needed infrastructure. Municipalities of the GTHA, first push for this... then hold your hand out.

After speaking to the President of Q-Trex International, Hardat Lachmansingh, my impressions of shipping to the Caribbean has taken on a different dimension. This is definitely a company which is intent on shipping to the Caribbean with more competitive prices, packages, and state of the art technologies and warehouses. Not to mention this company has adopted the initiative of assisting charities by providing free shipping of its cargo to the Caribbean. As long as there is extra space on its ships, Q-Trex will ship free of charge, any cargo that charities need to send to the Caribbean.

Hardat has a specific vision for his company, and this vision for his company has allowed his company to grow tremendously over the past years. Some of Q-Trex accomplishments are in Guyana, Q-Trex has opened a state of the art warehouse, with

custom guards and cashiers, which makes shipping to Guyana easy and corruption free.

Q-Trex is also offers 21 sailing days to Guyana and provides free drop-off of empty barrels to consumers in the GTA. Q-Trex also ships to other Caribbean countries, such as Jamaica, Trinidad and Barbados to name a few.

Q-Trex can be contacted for all you ocean, air and ground cargo @ 905 290 1946 or 1 866 881 5433, and via its website http:// www.qtrexinternational.com