Sandy Hikes Island Food Prices 100% 110712

SANDY HIKES ISLAND FOOD PRICES

MARKET PRODUCE UP BY MORE THAN 100%

JAMAICA (JO) -- One week after wreaking multibillion-dollar damage on her romp across the country, Hurricane Sandy is being blamed for what vendors say is an alarming increase in the prices of most agricultural produce.

Checks by the Sunday Observer at two of Kingston and St Andrew’s busiest fresh foods markets revealed that consumers are being asked to dig deeper into their pockets to purchase fruits and vegetables, and there are indications that the prices will

continue to climb in coming weeks due to scarcities stemming from the impact of the hurricane.

Up to last Friday, agriculture ministry personnel were finetuning their islandwide estimate of total damage to the sector.

Based on preliminary information presented to parliament by Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, the sector sustained damage amounting to $1.5 billion.

Last week, officials of the ministry also indicated that damage to the agricultural sector was most severe in Portland, St

Thomas and St Mary, the three eastern most parishes.

Despite these parishes sustaining most of the damage, vendors at both the busy Coronation market in downtown Kingston and the Papine market in St Andrew have indicated that produce from across the country has been hit by price hikes. They believe that some farmers are capitalising on the fact that certain produce is in short supply as a result of hurricane damage.

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Gays target Beenie’s concert

JAMAICA (JO) -- Another gay rights group is targeting deejay Beenie Man. According to the times-standard.com website, the Queer Humboldt organisation in Trinidad, northern California has come out against his concert there on Monday, but in a different way.

Times-standard.com quoted the group’s co-founder Todd Larsen as saying the show at the Olive Grove may have as many protesters as attendees.

“We are not trying to stop or block the concert. We are just trying to share love and to share education,” said Larsen.

The website reports that a group of gay activists in Humboldt County have been working since 2008 to educate the community on what Larsen refers to as “murder music”.

Larsen claims that some lyrics by dancehall artistes like Beenie Man and Capleton call for the murder of gays.

The gay rights community in northern California is among the most potent in the United States. In the past, they have protested shows by dancehall artistes, most notably Buju Banton.

Cadiz seeks to correct statement on Aids: Nicki Minaj has her figures wrong

Sharon,

20, from Toronto is a third year university student studying biology and English who also enjoys learning other languages including French, Hindi and Polish in her spare time. This beauty is also a part time model and tries to get in as many sports activities as possible such as swimming, biking, running and roller blading.

“My goal in life is to either become a Bio-Medical Engineer or to do something in the Sciences. I believe it is important to stay active and learn as much as you can to become a well rounded person altogether, which is why I do not like to limit myself.”

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

TRINIDA (TG) -- The Ministry of Tourism will soon embark on a public relations campaign to “correct” a statement made by Trinidad-born rapper Nicki Minaj that 250,000 people were living with Aids in T&T. Tourism Minister Stephen Cadiz, now attending the World Travel Market in London, said in a telephone interview yesterday that the statement was “obviously erroneous and has to be corrected.”

Minaj made the comment in an interview with the UK Guardian last Thursday.

She also said 40 per cent of local adolescents were not educated about HIV/Aids. Minaj is the face of Mac Cosmetics’ 2012 Viva Glam line of lipsticks.

Viva Glam sales support the Mac Aids Fund, a charity organisation providing grants to non-governmental organisations and community programmes focused on HIV/Aids outreach. According to the fund’s Web site, Macaidsfund.org, US$10 million has been donated to Caribbean programmes since 2007.

Cadiz said he was not “overly concerned” by the statement, adding that local HIV/Aids prevalence had never had a negative effect on tourism. He could not say when the public relations exercise would begin or what it would include. Health Minister Dr Fuad Khan lauded Minaj for her musical talents, but suggested she speak with Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) Rodger Samuel.

Samuel is responsible for the HIV/ Aids portfolio in the OPM, but could not be reached for comment yesterday. The most recent country progress report submitted by the OPM to UNAIDS, the joint United Nations programme on HIV/Aids, said the estimated number of people living with HIV/ Aids at the end of 2010 was 22,787.

Former technical director of the National Aids Co-ordinating Committee (NACC) Dr Amery Browne said yesterday the figure was actually closer to 25,000 people. He said the statistics about youth HIV/ Aids education would be difficult to gather.

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Police discover another arms cache -at Garden of Eden

GUYANA (GC) -- Police Sunday uncovered yet another arms cache, and this time it was

at Garden of Eden, East Bank Demerara.

Acting on a tipoff, police, around 08:30 hours yesterday, moved to Garden of Eden, where they made a significant discovery. Among the items found were a .38 Taurus Special Revolver along with 1,407 rounds of ammunition of various calibre.

Other items found were: two bullet proof vests, two pairs black leather boots, three face masks, and a quantity of clothing in two black suitcases and a travelling bag on the dam.

Police said the ammunition included .38, 7.62x39, .45, .44, .40, 9mm, .25, and

.380 rounds; and 12-gauge cartridges.

Sunday’s discovery comes close on the heels of another arms cache bust at Tabatinga, in the Southern Rupununi near Brazil about five weeks ago.

On that occasion, the arms cache find yielded: three AK-47 rifles, six M15 rifles, four AK-47 magazines, an AK-47 drum magazine, one M15 magazine, and two antiriot grenades.

Late yesterday, no arrests were made in connection with the Garden of Eden discovery, but police are continuing their investigations.

Devant heads team for Guyana on food security deal TRINIDAD (TG) -- Food Production Minister Devant Maharaj is expected to take a delegation from his ministry to Guyana to work out details of setting up a food security facility in that country. This depends on the approval of a cabinet note. In a telephone interview yesterday, Maharaj said he had spoken to the Ministers of Agriculture and Land Resources in Guyana and they had indicated they could meet with the T&T delegation during the week of Divali.

“The delegation includes myself, the permanent secretary and other technocrats from the ministry,” said Maharaj. The deal with the Guyanese Government would allow T&T access to land in that country for food production. It was announced by Fi-

nance Minister Larry Howai during the reading of the budget in October.

“The facility would commit both Governments to expanding agricultural production in Guyana through the establishment of commercial relationships for funding the establishment of several large agricultural estates in Guyana,” Howai had said. Maharaj said the agreement was part of an initiative launched in 2005 by then president Bharrat Jagdeo.

The initiative was intended to help decrease the total import bill for Caricom’s 15 member states. The bill stands at US$4 billion. Maharaj said food security was more important now than ever. “We are looking at items that we import in substantial amounts

so that we may bring down the food import bill,” Maharaj said.

He said though he could not give more details but meat was one of the products the ministry was considering for the Guyanese facility. Maharaj added that the production of rice, which contributed substantially to this country’s import bill had increased.

Earlier this year, the Government set a target year of 2015 for the food import bill to be cut by 50 per cent. T&T’s food import bill was TT$4 billion at the end of 2011 and Maharaj said his ministry was committed to reducing the figure.

ni Dial formed her own political party called National Vision for Transformation (NVT).

She, however, feels the party will not stand a chance in the 2015 general election, stating that sourcing financiers would be a problem.

Though she may not be able to contest all 41 seats, Dial said she would try her best to send up a few candidates. The NVT which was registered two weeks ago with the Elections and Boundaries Commission will be launched in early 2013. The symbol of the party is the palm of a hand holding the humming bird, the national bird.

Dial, a founding member of the COP, resigned on October 28 stating the party had failed miserably to deliver the new politics and good governance it had preached. She said when the COP was born,

its first leader Winston Dookeran spoke of bringing new politics to the people which she did not see.

Explaining that NVT was formed to bring about “good politics, young blood, new ideas and a different approach to doing things, Dial who joined thousands in Friday’s rally in Port-of-Spain said she was not in support of the trade unions, the People’s National Movement or any political party.

“That is why we have formed our own. But I was there for the cause and what is right. I was there more as a citizen.” Emphasising that citizens were losing faith in political parties, Dial said she will try her best to restore the faith of those who saw politicians as a waste of time.

Dial forms new party

TRINIDAD (TG) -- Days before resigning from the Congress of the People (COP) Nali-

New ‘airline’ promises youth flight to success TRINIDAD (TG) -- A new airline touched down in San Fernando over the weekend, promising to carry young people on a journey to success. Christened the Scarlet Ibis airlines by the Oratory Foundation, the metaphorical airplane landed at the Naparima Bowl for over three hours, giving hundreds of patrons a taste of the thrills and complexities of life. Its arrival was organised by Oratory Foundation’s head Deborah Jean-Baptiste-Samuel.

In her show called Flight to Destination, Baptiste-Samuel urged young people to board the airplane by pursuing their dreams and seizing opportunities. She said it was crucial for them to “get in at the gate before the flight left.”

In a dance titled I believe I Can Fly, Baptiste-Samuel said self-confidence was a key to success. Using her brother, Coast

Guard Lieutenant Kirk Jean-Baptiste as an example, the Oratory leader said from the age of eight, Kirk wanted to be a lieutenant so much that he would insist on being saluted by his family.

Baptiste-Samuel said Kirk was rejected the first time he applied to join the Coast Guard, but he never abandoned his dream. He later studied abroad and worked in the public relations industry before deciding to reapply to the Coast Guard.

This time he got in and within a few years, through hard work and commitment, Kirk rose to the rank of lieutenant.

Baptiste-Samuel said T&T Olympic gold medallist Keshorn Walcott and Grenadian gold medalist Kirani James, also boarded the flight and excelled because of their commitment. “They all had a dream, they pursued it and came out on top,” she

said.

However, Baptiste-Samuel said there are often obstacles in the flight to destination. In her segment of airline turbulence, featuring David Jacob and Omar Ramatally, Baptiste-Samuel said when terrorists hijack the flight of life, nothing but God can save you. “You must have the power of God behind you...This is what will help you to overcome,” Baptiste-Samuel said.

She also spoke about the need to obey “aviation” rules and to conform to authority. Respect and forgiveness were key players in the flight of life, she said. When the monologue performers and choral speakers ended their “flight to destination” many of the patrons expressed interest in boarding the airplane. The performances were so convincing that some believed literally that a new airline was in town.

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Kamla: We will not be intimidated Wishing Mother Lakshmi blessing on everyone, Persad-Bisssesar said, “May you continue to grow from strength to strength and know this always, you gave us a mandate for five years and we of the government will make sure to honour that mandate for the full five years. “We are not afraid.

We will not be deterred. We will not be intimidated. We will do what is right when it is right.”

She said when issues arise, the Government would be guided by the divine light. For the next two and half years, the Prime Minister said, “I give you this assurance when wrong comes to light I will deal with it and when right comes to light I will praise it.

“So my members of my government here tonight, I praise each and every one of them who have come and those who TRINIDAD (TG) -- A day after thousands marched through the streets of Port-of-Spain demanding the removal of Attorney General Anand Ramlogan and National Security Minister Jack Warner, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar had this to say to supporters, “Let not your hearts be troubled.”

Delivering remarks at the Siparia Women’s Association 15th Divali celebrations at her constituency office in Penal on Saturday night, Persad-Bisssesar sought to dispel any doubt about the stability of the People’s Partnership Government.

Friday’s march in Port-of-Spain, titled In Defence of Our Democracy, was

attended by groups comprising Fitun, including the Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union, the Estate Police Association, Fire Services Association, Prisons Officers Association, Wallerfield Farmers Association, the Arima Maxi Taxi Association, Disabled People’s International, the Artistes Coalition, the CWU, Fixin’ T&T, the Opposition and the Movement for Social Justice (MSJ) Steering clear of the marchers’ demand for the removal Ramlogan and Warner, she instead praised all her government ministers, including Ramlogan who was one of the ministers at the function. Warner was not present.

had other engagements...give them a good Siparia/Penal round of applause,” she said.

“And may I repeat, let not your hearts be troubled. We have gone through some rough pathways and some rough waters but the ship sails smoothly on. The sails are very strong.”

In his brief greetings, Ramlogan also assured that the country was in safe hands. “The Prime Minister said the ship is in safe hands...I want to say that the ship is in safe and very strong and capable hands,” he said.

“The light of deya to me symbolises the light of justice and that light of justice will shine brightly under leadership of Kamla Persad-Bissessar and all those who are guilty of injustice, Lakshmi Mata will give us the strength to bring them to justice.”

T&TEC brings Divali lights to Chaguanas TRINIDAD (TG) -- The T&T Electricity Commission (T&TEC) has completed 170 public lighting projects, says Public Utilities Minister Nizam Baksh. He spoke at Divali celebrations hosted by T&TEC on Saturday night at the Mid Centre Mall, Chaguanas. He said the programme had seen the lighting of several recreational grounds in the country.

The minister said commission was

also in the process of seeking new areas in need of public lighting. He said under the National Social Development House Wiring Programme, 1,450 homes were wired during the 2010-2011 fiscal year. Baksh said Divali was the second largest celebration in T&T and served to bridge the cultural gap among all people of T&T.

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Produce hike over 100 percent Continued From Page 1 -- Vendors who travel to the downtown Kingston landmark to purchase produce are upset at this, as they claim they will have difficulties selling the items to their customers.

“Everybody tek the opportunity to ride the price,” said one vendor as she detailed some of the items that have been hit by price adjustments.

Another listed plantains, bananas, dasheens, peppers, cabbage and carrots among the items which have gone up by more than 100 per cent in some cases.

“Sweet pepper move from $80 a pound to $160 and hot pepper gone up to $200 a pound from $80. Even cho cho gone up. Is $100 fi three now,” said a vendor who identified herself as Maureen.

She explained that many crops such as peppers were destroyed in the hurricane and as a result farmers who still have the produce have moved to hike their prices in response to the rush on their farms.

One elderly male vendor who said he travelled from Guys Hill in St Catherine to the Coronation market explained that the price of the ripe bananas he had on sale moved from a farm gate price of $80 per dozen. “We use to buy the banana for 80 dollar a dozen but now it gone to $120 and we have to sell it fi a profit,” said Mr Davis who indicated that he now sells a dozen bananas for anywhere between $150 - $200 per dozen, depending on the size of the fruits.

The hikes have infuriated and frustrated several consumers who spoke with the Sunday Observer at the Coronation market on Friday while on their regular shopping trips.

An elderly man who was seen roving with his market bag complained that his food bill had gone up.

“Ah used to spend $1000 dollars at the market, but based on what ah seeing today mi going to spend $1,500 fi the same things,” he argued.

Another woman who said she had travelled from Hart Hill in Portland to purchase produce told the Sunday Observer that she had to search for good prices, as her plans were to return to Portland to sell them.

For her, while the price of most items have gone up, others, such as yams, escallion and pumpkins remained within a reasonable price range.

“Even yam up and down, tomato up and down. Some place tomato a’ $60, some place $50, that nuh bad. Sweet potato, some place have it for $50, some $60, and some $70.

Escallion not so bad, but cabbage up to all $80 a pound,” she complained.

The situation was similar at the Pap-

ine market in St Andrew where the prices of most items were even higher than at the Coronation market.

“Everything gone up, tomato, carrot, banana, even pepper gone up. The storm really affect the price of things. We use to get carrot for $60 a pound, now it gone up to $100 and $120,” said Lois, who said she travelled from Dallas Castle in St Andrew to the Papine market.

As she spoke with the Observer, the dejected vendor pointed to a half bunch of bananas on the stem which she said had been purchased at the Coronation market for $700.

According to her, this item was being sold for $400 before the passage of the hurricane.

For most of the vendors who spoke with the Observer, the situation could get worse before it gets better, as some of the produce now being sold was salvaged from hurricaneravaged farms.

They added that they will have to do more travelling to purchase produce and indicated that this will also contribute to a further hike in prices in coming weeks.

For Davis, the banana vendor from Guy’s Hill, St Catherine, the price of the staple will continue to climb as a result of the widespread devastation of plantain and banana plantations in St Mary, St Thomas and Portland which produce most of these fruits for local consumption.

His sentiments are being echoed by president of the Jamaica Agricultural Society, Senator Norman Grant, who explained that the total damage to the sector could climb to more than $2 billion, as more than 60,000 farmers across the country have sustained losses according to early estimates.

Regarding the sharp increase in fresh fruit and vegetable prices, Grant is calling on consumers to be vigilant about potential pricegouging, particularly by middlemen who purchase goods from farmers for sale to market vendors.

However, he maintains that some upward adjustment is inevitable as the price of agricultural produce is influenced by the basic principles governing demand and supply.

Against this background, the JAS president says consumers should continue to support the country’s farmers as they try to rebound from the disaster.

He is also rejecting suggestions that the Government will have to resort to importing additional produce in light of the setback suffered by farmers.

According to Grant, some farmers are already clearing their fields and should have produce such as red peas by Christmas.

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The Basics of Meditation

Geeta Maraj Contributor Learning to control the mind so as to focus on a single thought is the ultimate goal of meditation. However, this disciplined practice of silence, becomes a challenge when we give ourselves a moment to focus on the activities of the mind. We soon realize as we try to de-clutter our mind and focus singly, how many thoughts we process per minute.

Meditation, however, is the key to understanding a greater purpose to our existence.

It helps to evaluate our busy mind and in so doing, it aids in directing us to evaluate our health and emotions.

While the idea of meditating might seem wonderful or you might have been fortunate to be exposed to a gathering where someone tries to lead you into meditation - this is easier said than done! Meditation is not a doing which happens overnight. In fact, it takes years sometimes for one to even begin experiencing a hint of blissful awareness through meditation. But this should never be a hindrance to meditation as the benefits are well worth the wait.

The first step toward learning to meditate is to learn to focus your thoughts

more precisely. This should be done on a continuous basis as you carry on with your general activities. Study your mind and learn to keep your focus on what you are doing only. This process is called ‘being in the moment’. Try to stay focused on the task at hand by studying every aspect of what you are doing. For example, if you are having a cup of tea, study every aspect of the cup; the tea; how it is made; where the tea may have come from; how many people were involved in finally getting this tea to the cup of which you are now drinking. By focusing on the task at hand, and not allowing your mind to wander aimlessly or be preoccupied with various issues, it allows your mind to learn to focus.

The second stage of meditation comes by understanding your breath. Your pattern of breathing influences your mind.

If your breath is rapid and short, then your mind will be busy and you will be prone to irritability and anger. If your breath is slow and extended, then you will be more inclined to being calm and peaceful in mood.

To practice having, even calm breaths, you must first of all learn the proper rhythm of your body when you breathe. The correct rhythm of the body is as you inhale your chest should rise and your abdomen extend.

When you exhale, your abdominal muscles should contract, so as to push the stale air out of your lungs. Often, this pattern is reversed, and while we might be breathing, there is very little fresh air being allowed into our lungs at each breath. To correct poor breathing habits, you should exhale all your breath,

until your abdominal muscles are tightly contracted. After which, once you inhale, your breathing pattern will be corrected.

The next stage toward successful meditation is to practice focusing on an image. Start by staring at an image and study every aspect of that image, as you did when you started to initially practice ‘being in the moment’. Once you practice open eye meditation onto an image for a period of time, then close your eyes and begin to visualize the image of which you were starting. This helps you to learn to focus, quieten the mind and concentrate.

Eventually, with the preceding practices, you will naturally know when it is time for you to sit in meditation. This should be a routine that you build upon at a regular time and place. The purpose to a routine is that it brings continuance in your efforts and encourages you along the way.

Here are some tips towards successful meditation: Have no expectations: Don’t have a goal in mind as you meditate. Just enjoy the fact that you are giving that moment to yourself and observe how your body reacts.

Try to sit in silence for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, focusing on nothing but your breathing.

Never try to practice meditation when you are sleepy: Have a nap first, as there will be no progress in meditation if your mind is tired and wants to rest.

Allocate a specific area of your home or office where you meditate: Do not allow anyone to sit in your meditation

spot. Keep your meditation area very personal and private, as this helps to develop a pure, calm energy. When it is not possible to have a specific spot for meditation, the mat or blanket which you sit on to meditate must be kept very personal and not shared with anyone. While burning incense is not necessary, you may want to incorporate it as part of your meditation ritual.

Never begin meditating on an empty stomach or after you have over eaten: Keeping your stomach half filled prevents your mind from being distracted by the demands of your body which in turn causes difficulty in focusing.

Practice Breath meditation: This type of meditation has numerous health benefits – when you bring attention to your breath, you breathe more deeply and slowly.

You bring awareness to the life sustaining activity of your body. The process helps you to relax your heart and lowers your blood pressure. You also become more energy efficient.

As you allow yourself to be fully present while maintaining your focus, you eventually find yourself slipping into that gap which exists between thoughts. Within that expanding space of nothingness, you experience pure awareness. Through meditation, you are allowing your mind to take a break from its constant processing. According to The Buddha, “Meditation brings wisdom; lack of meditation leaves ignorance.

Know well what leads you forward and what holds you back, and choose the path that leads to wisdom.”

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Unpaid players sue T20 organisers “It is unacceptable that the players have yet to be compensated and reimbursed for their time and costs.” May said Kat Rose contracted individually with all of the players to secure their attendance and participation in the match, held at the Rogers Centre in Toronto, Ontario. Additional events

included a gala dinner, a practice, and a fan autograph session.

Kat Rose has claimed the absence of some of the cricketers from Pakistan because of last minute visa issues meant the event was financially unsuccessful.

Sammy: Windies must remain hungry

West Indies players Tino Best and Devon Smith are among 16 players who have started legal proceedings against the organisers of the Cricket All Star T20 match which was held in Toronto in May claiming they have yet to be paid.

Ontario-based Kat Rose Custom Designs Inc (Kat Rose), which organised the Cricket Canada-approved event, was served notices at the Toronto Small Claims Court on September 27 regarding unpaid match fees and expenses totalling approximately $113,000.

Apart from Best and Smith, some of the other affected players include Sanath Jayasariya, Saqlain Mushtaq, Kyle Mills, Jacob Oram, Mark Boucher, Brendan Taylor and Bangladesh allrounder Nasir Hossain, who was supposed to be paid $10,000.

Despite being robbed of large portion of its star power two days prior, the

match was entertaining and did not lose its competitive spirit. The crowd at Rogers Centre in Toronto was much smaller than expected but those who came out saw the Asia/ Canada XI defeat the International XI squad by three wickets.

The International XI batted first and put up 164 runs for six wickets in the opening 20 overs with West Indies batsman Smith smacking a match-high 69 runs off 63 balls including nine fours but non sixes.

Smith was eventually named man of the match. “We are incredibly disappointed and distressed by the lack of professionalism of the Kat Rose organisation,” Tim May, the chief executive officer of FICA, said.

“The players fulfilled their contractual obligations and are now each left out-ofpocket to the tune of several thousand dollars of their own money. How can anyone in good conscience conduct business this way?

BRIDGETOWN -- Captain Darren Sammy has cautioned against complacency as West Indies prepare to face Bangladesh in a Test and one-day series they are expected to win easily. West Indies left yesterday for Dhaka where they contest two Tests and five one-dayers against the lowly ranked Bangladeshis, between November 8 and December 10. They also play a oneoff Twenty20 International.

Bangladesh prop up the ninenation Test rankings where West Indies lie seventh and are also ninth of 13 teams in the one-day tables, with the Windies against seventh. “We’ve just got to stay hungry. We can’t keep thinking because we won the T20 World Cup that we’ve turned the corner. We’ve still got to put in the hard work and all the stuff coach (Ottis) Gibson has been trying to implement since he came on board,” Sammy told reporters here. “We’ve got to keep working hard. Bangladesh in Bangladesh is always a difficult place for us or for any team. We expect to beat them so we’ve got to keep the momentum and do the things we’ve doing for the last six months.”

Last year on the subcontinent, West Indies beat Bangladesh 1-0 in a twoTest series and also took the three-match one-day series 2-1. It made amends for the ill-fated 2009 home tour when West Indies, depleted by a rancorous strike by senior players, lost both Tests and all three one-dayers. Now with a fully staffed squad, Sammy believes once players assume the right frame of mind, a series victory will be assured. “It’s the mindset,” he stressed. “If we go to Bangladesh and we put out the hard work that we’ve been putting in for the last two years where we were competing against the higher ranked teams … if we continue in the same vein as against New Zealand we should be ok.”

Since the abysmal tour of England earlier this year, West Indies have flourished, comprehensively beating New Zealand in the Caribbean before winning the T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka last month. Despite their new found international fame, Sammy brushed aside suggestions this could prove a distraction. “I don’t think there will be added pressure,” he contended.

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Caribbean Pot: Spicy tomato choka

Chris De La Rosa Contributor As we move into the colder months of the year, here’s a simple but spicy dish to add some Caribbean sunshine to your kitchen.

Ingredients 3 large ripe tomatoes 2 cloves of garlic 1/4 teaspoon of salt 1/4 of a small onion (depends on how much you like onions) 2 tablespoon olive oil 1 scotch bonnet or habanero pepper Note: There are several ways you can prepare the tomato for this recipe, but in this version we’ll use the grill. You can also boil in water, place in the microwave on high for a few minutes, roast in your oven or roast in a frying pan on your stove top.

Wash and remove the stems from the tomato, then place on grill (BBQ). Try to keep the temperature set at about 400C and rotate a couple times to cook evenly. Try not to play with them as they cook as they are delicate and can crush and fall apart. Also roast the pepper for a couple minutes as well (until it`s charred slightly).

In a bowl add the garlic (slice to make this step easier), salt, charred pepper and get a pestle or something to crush everything with. The salt will assist in breaking things down since it’s abrasive. Try to get it somewhat smooth.

After about 10-15 minutes on the grill, remove the tomato. It will look charred and you’ll almost think you’ve ruined it.

Nope.. that just brings out the natural sugars in the tomato and it’s exactly what we’re looking for. The burnt skin should easily fall off.. try to remove as much as you can.

Then add the tomatoes to the bowl with the already crushed garlic and pepper.

Crush everything into a nice thick sauce. the tomato will let out a bit of liquid (depends on the variety of tomato you use). You’ll probably find that around the stem area of the tomato will be a bit tough to crush. You can remove that from the bowl.

Slice the onion very thin and place on top of the now crushed mixture. Then in a small frying pan, put the olive oil to heat on high. In a couple minutes you’ll start seeing the oil starting to smoke. Try not to keep it on the heat for much longer as olive oil cannot withstand too much heat. Take the oil over to the bowl and gently (be careful for oil splatters) pour onto the onions. Act

fast – stir the entire lot around so the crushed garlic, the salt, pepper, roasted tomato puree and the onions get’s mixed evenly. You’re done!

Tomato choka is excellent a dip for roti and bread, goes well with rice and chal and can even be used as a dip for corn chips.

If you`d like to see a video on how this is done, visit: http://youtu.be/1ykTZBmXZLA and also add your name for our cookbook giveaway.

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Nutrition and exercise

Monique Bartlett Contributor I don’t think there is a one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition. I think it’s really important for each person to do what works best for them, taking into consideration personal strengths and weaknesses. You may be a very detail-oriented person and approach life with an all or nothing mindset. You approach nutrition with the aim of 100% compliance because I you know that cheat meals will trigger an avalanche of cravings or you may be the type of person where you allow yourself a cheat day because you know if you don’t, you will

just go crazy and binge.

Your meals can be simple, bland and repetitive. You can weigh and log everything or you can make what you like within reason and just by adding more fruits and vegetables and reducing your sugars and fats you can still reach your goal. This way may take you longer to reach your goal but as long as you are aware of this and don’t beat yourself up about a slower weight loss, you can still reach success. The key is to know yourself and use the tools you have in a manner that will ensure your success.

If you know that lack of time will be your biggest hurdle, it may be important for you to carve out the necessary time for yourself and create a workout schedule that you can work with. Write out your workout schedule and keep it in your computer or on your smartphone and stick to it. Think of each and every workout as bringing you one step closer to the goals you have set for yourself. Seeing

your workout goals may help drive home the importance of every workout and you may be much less inclined to skip a workout as a result.

There may be times that you do not feel like working out, but you need to stop the mental debate in your head as soon as it begins. Just get up and get moving. The mind-body connection is just as important as the nutrition.

Encouragement, support, accountability and camaraderie of likeminded individuals all working toward similar goals can also be vital to your success. There will be times when your mindset is not as strong as it needs to be.

There will be times where you feel like slacking off, and times when you just don’t think you can resist the cookies and cakes that somehow happen to show up out of nowhere. All you have to do in those times is reach out to your support network and you will be energized and re-focused.

Kidney Stones and some homemade remedies to try at home

Trish Browning Contributor Kidney stones develop from waste matter hardening and becoming attached to the inside wall of the kidney. Most kidney stones remain unnoticed until they become dislodged getting caught in a ureter or other passageway, while moving through the body during urination.

Most diseases of the kidneys remain unnoticed until the problem is severe. You can make a variety of home remedies using herbs and common foods to alleviate a wide range of kidney disorders, including dissolving stones and restoring renal activity.

Lemonade: High in the chemical citrate, the juice of fresh lemons helps dissolve certain types of kidney stones, according Dr. Roger Sur, director of the

University of California, San Diego Comprehensive Kidney Stone Center. Drinking lemon water can help you take advantage of these benefits. Mix four ounces of fresh squeezed lemon juice with two and a half quarts of water. Filtered or spring water is best. To dissolve kidney stones, drink the entire contents of this mixture spread throughout the day, every day.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Drinking apple cider vinegar adjusts the body’s pH and helps to establish an alkalineforming state in the urine. Uric acid, the chemical responsible for the formation of gout crystals and urate kidney stones cannot crystallize in alkaline urine. Additionally, any existing kidney stones will dissolve in alkaline urine, passing from the body during elimination. Mix two to four tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in eight to 12 ounces of filtered or spring water and drink twice daily to dissolve kidney stones. Cut back on the amount of vinegar if it’s too strong, and work to build up to the full amount.

Cranberry juice: An old-time folk remedy, cranberry juice has found its place in the medical world as an effective treatment for both preventing

kidney stones and relieving a variety of urinary tract disorders, according to the British Journal of Urology. It is high in nutrients such as anthocyanins, vitamin C, and antioxidants, all known to reduce inflammation. Mix one cup of unsweetened cranberry concentrate with three cups of pure water. Sweeten with honey or stevia and drink spread throughout the day, every day.

Parsley and dandelion: Both parsley and dandelion have exceptional medicinal properties that relieve urinary tract disorders. Both herbs are natural diuretics, stimulating urinary output and flushing the system of waste materials that contribute to the formation of kidney stones. They remove toxins, cleanse the kidneys, dissolve uric acid, and create an alkaline-forming environment in the kidneys and bladder, helping urine maintain a neutral or slightly alkaline pH. Use either herb as tea or chop and add fresh parsley or dandelion greens to salads.

You can also throw them into a green smoothie or juice them to obtain their benefits.

Source (http://www.naturalnews.com)

after they first get pregnant and with the birth of each succeeding child that they lost their teeth. This is true in the Caribbean where dental awareness and services was available to few.

This is what we now know during pregnancy there are hormonal changes.

The level of the hormone progesterone increases, and promotes the growth of bacteria that causes inflammation of the gum and bone around the teeth. If there is a significant amount of plaque and hardened food deposits around the teeth harmful substances are released called toxins, which gets into the tissue and results in the destruction of the support for the teeth.

The problem gets even worse if there is already significant gum disease at the time of pregnancy.

How does an expecting mother know she has gum disease?

Usually the gum around the teeth becomes smooth and more red than pink and pain. There may be mild to severe swelling of the gum. Brushing may cause bleeding and there may be pain in a local or generalized area. It is not sufficient to rinse with salt water and antibacterial mouth washes. It is time to see the dentist.

How to prevent this condition?

Most important practice good oral hygiene. Brush at least twice per day and floss at least once per day. Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash. Although professional periodontal cleanings will help significantly to maintain good dental health, it is very important to have it done at the first sign of pregnancy.

Pregnancy Gingivitis Dr. Matthew S Weekes BSC DDS MTh DMin

Contributor In Medical/Dental terms gun means gingiva and -itis means inflammation.

The gum and bone tissue surrounding the teeth is called the periodontum.

I have heard it said by women approaching 70 years and older, and now wearing partial or full dentures, that they had perfect teeth and started losing them

Wednesday, November 7, 2012 11

12 Wednesday, November 7, 2012

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Federal Skilled Workers: Are you eligible for CIC REFUND?

Marva Kollar Contributor The Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program is an independent category of Canada immigration. FSWs are selected based on six selection factor including: age, education, work experience, language ability, etcetera.

These individuals are highly skilled and must demonstrate their ability to become economically established in Canada. As Permanent Residents, they had mobility rights and were able to settle, adjust and expand Canada’s social and cultural fabric.

However, the FSW program came to a screeching halt on July 1, 2012, as Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) sought to address the longstanding backlog of applications in this category. This “temporary pause” does not affect individuals with a genuine job offer or applicants who qualify for the newly introduced category of Canada immigration called, the “PhD stream”.

Notably, Canada’s labour market is not created to eliminate immigrants entirely.

Employers also bear the blunt of the pause, as some occupations are in high demand.

It is expected that the pause will be lifted in 2013, under a new and improved FSW

selection criteria geared to attract younger, more educated and highly skilled individuals.

Prior to the “temporary pause” CIC made several other changes to the FSW program such as: Bill C-50 which critics called the “queue-jumpers”. In June 2008, to meet Canada’s immigration goals, the “Action Plan for Faster Immigration” allowed 38 occupations of certain skill set that was in demand received prioritized processing instead of waiting in the “normal application processing queue”. The backlog at that time was reported as approximately 640,000.

As Canada remained attractive to prospective immigrants, FSWs applications flooded Canadian embassies worldwide.

CIC then reduced the 38 to 29 occupations in demand with new capacity in June 2010.

Older applications were then pushed further back into the warehouse hence resulted in up to eight years processing time in some countries.

Additional changes to address the backlog were announced in March 2012 shortly after the Economic Action Plan, whereby CIC proposed to eliminate backlog of approximately 300,000 FSW applications and refund over $130 million to “nearly all” applicants. To be eligible for a refund, applicants must have applied under the FSW criteria that existed before February 27, 2008. Some applicants may not even receive a refund as prior to the new Regulation the applicant would only be eligible for a refund if the application were withdrawn.

Needless to say, the March 2012

announcement triggered class action lawsuits against CIC, which resulted in some litigants receiving their Permanent Residence status in August 2012 while others are waiting processing instead of a refund.

Again, in June 2012, the introduction of “Jobs, Growth and Long-Term Prosperity Act” sought to eliminate the majority of warehoused applications and most recently, on November 2, 2012, CIC announced a more foreseeable backlog clearance by the end of 2014 that will also be synchronize with Canada’s job futures.

Some immigration critics referred to applications being legislated away as a blatant disregard for human beings in that: some applicants having received an Approval in Principle, sold properties and liquidated assets to show proof of settlement funds upon arrival in Canada may not have

the opportunity to repair their lives due to a negative shift in economic. Also, some Dependents are over the age of 22 and can no longer accompany parent to Canada, neither will they be qualified independently under the proposed new FSW. Other critics are convinced that Canada have forfeited some of the brightest and best from the FSW backlog as well as future international talents in that perspective immigrants may steer away from Canada’s immigration system.

The good news is: Applicants affected by these changes may have the right to Refund or possible join a Class Action lawsuit.

Whether you are affected by the old FSW program or seek to obtain permanent residence status under the new proposed FSW program, contact an Authorized Representative immediately.

One reason why McDonald’s is the world’s most successful franchise!

JG Francoeur Contributor If you haven’t heard the term ‘Social Proof’ before, don’t worry. Most of us haven’t. Social proof is a simple yet powerful concept.

How powerful you ask? Well many great marketers will cite Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini as the most important marketing book ever written. And Cialdini devotes over 50 pages just to social proof.

In short, social proof is when you use the experiences of others to help you make decisions. We see this every where in business. The McDonald’s famous “Over one billion sold” signs, testimonials and a million other things too.Here’s an awesome example of a local small town business using social proof (he probably doesn’t even know he’s using it). If in reading this you think this guy is gimmicky you’d be mistaken! Keep reading...

I walk in to this coffee shop and notice that he’s using a newspaper article that was written about him as his placemats.

Also he framed the article and it’s all over

the place along with two or three other articles… I judge and think ‘wow that’s a bit much….I sit in the lounge to enjoy my coffee and just as I’m about to leave I notice that he’s keeping a record count of how many cookies he’s sold to date (crazy cookies are his thing!)

He’s almost at 87,000 which by the way is killer social proof… I then recant my initial judgement and decide to write this as an example of awesome marketing!

He effectively told his story and got me to form the opinion of him he wanted so I come back! By the way what I didn’t tell you is that just before I bought my coffee a woman in front of me dropped $50 on cookies! Don’t tell me this is gimmicky, it’s working!!

Every business owner can use social proof more effectively. You can put testimonials and customer experiences on your website, packaging, voice mail, ‘hold message’, email auto-reply, signs, brochures.

Social proof is your best sales and marketing tool because if you say it about yourself you’re bragging but if someone else say’s it about you, it’s true. Example: “I met with JG and he got me started on a new marketing campaign. It went viral within 3 weeks (starting sate 20/3/2012), and I now have 1800 new leads. His strategies are excellent and each level of what he implements is exciting and makes perfect sense.”

Maria Nicola Jewelry, Sydney Australia

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Your Horoscope - November 7th 2012 Aries Horoscope (March 21-April 20): Your month starts with added excitement, thanks to Venus stimulated by Uranus in Aries on Thursday/ Friday. Your social and love lives get an added boost from this transit. As well, they can spark an unexpected financial gain, so when the impulse strikes, try your luck—instant picks are recommended. Mixed with Tuesday’s Mercury retrograde start, expect to revisit places, faces, and more.

Taurus Horoscope (April 21-May 21): On a job hunt?

Looking for better prospects, options, or more support? The next couple of days could prove lucrative. Venus/Uranus can deliver surprise opportunity or added expense, perhaps to do with a work, studies, health, or transportation matter. A casual conversation or introduction could light a new fire. Accept extra help or advice. A second opinion or another look/see can be wise.

Gemini Horoscope (May 23June 20): Sparking your social life, romantic opportunity, creativity, and finances, Venus and Uranus give you plenty extra to post on your Facebook page. The fun, synchronicities, and eventfulness of life’s ups and downs will keep things moving fast and furious through the weekend and into the start of Tuesday’s Mercury retrograde. As is typical of the cycle, expect to repeat and remeet.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21July 20): Don’t plan or expect more of the same. The week’s end could bring a disruption, side track, or shakeup, or it may suddenly let you off the hook. Impulsiveness or added expense can get the better of you.

By Sunday, you should feel you can own yourself again. Mercury retrograde, beginning Tuesday, extends or enlarges that which you are working through, on, or toward.

Leo Horoscope (July 21-Aug. 22): On Thursday and Friday, your phone rings more and your inbox stays active. Venus/Uranus keeps good times, ideas, inspirations, and conversations going strong. On Saturday, switch gears, recharge, or replenish. Monday’s opportune Leo moon keeps you motoring along exceptionally well, but as of Tuesday, Mercury retrograde calls for added vigilance. You are wise to sharpen your observational and listening skills in order to play it smarter.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug. 23Sept. 22): Affairs of the heart and the wallet are on a fast track the first couple of days of November. Edgy and unpredictable Venus/Uranus keeps the live wire or hot wire well sparked. Saturday can present an opportunity to have a heartfelt exchange and/or reach them where they’ll feel it/see it/hear it best. Mercury retrograde can start with more backtracking or second-guessing.

Libra Horoscope (Sept. 23Oct. 22): A fresh diversion or added stimulation is on the ready, set, go dial. Venus, Uranus, and Pluto keep the sparks flying through the weekend. People may surprise you, and you could surprise yourself too. Do it up, live it up, aim for maximum impact, but also keep tabs on your impulsive or extravagant side. Once Mercury does its turnaround, regret can grow.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct. 23Nov. 21): The unexpected can finish out your workweek, but trust your instincts and you’ll navigate through it just fine. In fact, add-ons, diversions, or changes could work to your advantage. Saturday can be a breakthrough day. Mercury retrograde is likely to increase your expenses, expenditures, and efforts. You may choose or be forced to pull out of an agreement, an arrangement, a contract, or a relationship.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov. 22-Dec. 20): The end of the week could keep you especially busy with back-and-forth communications, added planning, socializing, and running around. By Saturday/Sunday, you should feel like you surpassed plenty and made a good landing.

On Monday, keep open-ended and openminded, and take things as they come. Starting retrograde in Sagittarius on Tuesday, Mercury sends you back to task.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec. 21-Jan. 20): You could be game for change, and more easily convinced or swayed.

When you see your moment, have the talk, call in the favour, and give it your best shot. Monday makes for good communication lines, but don’t bank on promises unless you get them in writing. As of Tuesday, when Mercury retrograde gets under way, things change and minds do too.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan. 21-Feb. 18): November’s start keeps it fresh and stimulating for you. Thursday/Friday, good timing and opportunity are in your court. The right words come at the right time, and the right people do too. Connect, travel, promote, scout, have fun, love ’em up. Saturday/Sunday, take care of business, wrap it up. Tuesday’s Mercury retrograde prompts a revision, repeat, or re-meet.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb. 18-March 20): Requirements are significant now, but your capacity to meet and surpass expectations (yours or others’) has increased as well. Errands, entertaining, family, and professional or financial matters pile up Thursday/Friday, but Saturday through Monday, you should feel you have a handle on it. Mercury retrograde, starting Tuesday, heaps more on you.

Wednesday, November 7, 2012 13

14 Wednesday, November 7, 2012

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Reason to reign in 407ETR? Because we can!

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Tammy Flores Contributor How many times have you heard from the Province that they exhausted all legal avenues available to them to reign in 407ETR’s spiralling toll increases and customer service nightmares? As Jodie Parmar pointed out in the last three articles, there are at least 3 legal options available to the Province if they really want to reign in 407ETR. The question now becomes do they want to? Why haven’t they acted on behalf of the over 6,000 Bankrupt Ontarians & thousands more that were victims of this company’s willful invoice suppression scheme?

Also, we can not forget that gridlock causes a loss of billions of dollars from our economy. Why haven’t they acted to help curb gridlock on the 401? More importantly,

why aren’t we hearing the conversation on the status of Highway #413? (Yes there is another highway planned for north of Highway 407).

There seems to be confusion among the professionals I have spoken with over the information the traffic models will reveal.

For example, in the studies that are now taking place, are they comprehensive enough to show the network effects, including 401, 407 & the potential 413? What role does transit play in the studies? One of the most important details I want to know is if the studies are only taking into account 407ETR’s optimizing trips to generate ever increasing EBITDA to enrich owners, instead of trip optimization actions & alternatives for congestion relief? These are important questions we should be demanding answers to.

When the Province has it within the power of their hands to rectify these troubling issue for thousands of people and bring in some much needed dollars to the economy it is reasonable for us to expect that they act.

Please continue to ask your MPP if they will act on reigning in 407ETR and sign the petition at https://campaign.to/StopThe407EtrsAbuseOfPower/petition/13/

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