Carifika 111319

CARIFIKA

SIMONE J. SMITH/TORONTO CARIBBEAN

“If you want to move fast, go alone, if you want to move further, do it together.” ~ African Proverb

A majority of the black Canadians (not all) that you find living in Canada would say that life is better here then it is for our brothers and sisters living in the United States of America. Although there are some differences in terms of demographic patterns and patterns of migration, you would be surprised to know that black Canadians face similar issues that are experienced across the border.

Black Canadians face the same

difficulties obtaining employment in key markets, housing, opportunities for home ownership, ability to live in neighbourhoods with good public transit, and fairness when it comes to policing and justice. Some black Canadians are just happy with the fact that we do not face racism to the extent that our American neighbours do, but as of late, there are clusters of people who have decided that enough is enough, and have taken action to change the narrative that has been written for blacks, indigenous, and people of co lour.

als is the group that makes up Carifika Canada Inc., a national non-profit organization who has made it their mission to create a unified social and economic system for African and Caribbean people to strengthen, maintain and rebuild wealth utilizing: education, health, and spiritual development. Their focus is to bring visibility to African and Caribbean people living in Canada by creating a network where our community can: find, trade and access resources relating to Afri-

Continued On Page 5

JILLIAN DANFORD

The first thing you notice about Auntie Jillian is her smile. Seeing her on YouTube and Television does not compare to meeting her in real life, and truly experiencing her warm and welcoming energy. With over 66.9K followers on Instagram (@askauntiejillian), over 12-million views and 100,000 subscribers on YouTube, Jillian Danford has become an international online star. Her new series, Auntie Jillian invites viewers into her home to see how she and her husband exist as Caribbeans living in Canada, and how they have found ways to embrace Canadian culture, while staying true to their Caribbean roots.

It was not too long ago, Auntie Jillian

worked as a court registrar with Oshawa’s Superior Court of Justice. It was actually a co-worker of hers that prompted her to look into exploring the media landscape. Always open to new opportunities, Auntie auditioned for The Shopping Channel where she landed a steady gig and started doing pretty well for herself in the entertainment industry. She began to appear on her niece’s YouTube channel, and it seems that once the community caught wind of her, she became an auntie to her viewers and the community.

Auntie Jillian now has her own official YouTube Channel that is dedicated to bringing positive energy, to inspire, to educate and to keep her viewers entertained. She refers to her channel as a Life Style Channel that is oriented to the family. She has topics ranging from: Q & A, travel reviews and adventures, interviews with influencers like Super Model Winnie Harlow, and Jemeni from G98.7, and cooking. “It’s a Real Ting,” Auntie tells me, “There is something for everyone.” I was able to steal a little of Auntie Jillian’s time (which she gave to me graciously) when I went to sit in on a shoot in Pickering last Thursday.

everything, but what you do see is the real thing. I don’t have time for the false persona; people always see through fake, so my family and I keep it 100%. Letting people into our lives does a few things: it gives the Caribbean community something to relate to, and it shows our viewers that we have worked hard for everything that we have. The house has been in the family for 20 years, and I don’t mind people seeing that my house looks just like any other Caribbean household in Canada. We finally renovated the house, but once again, we let our viewers in so they could see our transition.”

During our time there, Auntie Jillian explained some of her experience in the industry, and how she had decided to go this route with her life. Wearing a bright red jacket, and looking comfortably cute, we stood in the isle of the West Indian grocery store where she was shooting one of her scenes for Season Two of her series Aunt Jillian. During my talk with her, I learned that when she was a teenager, she had scoliosis, and had to have surgery on her back. Of course with surgery comes scars, and she had been left with a reminder of her pain right down the middle of her back. She recalls a time when she used to hide it, and rethink her outfits ensuring that the scar was hidden. Of course with age, and maturity, she realizes the beauty of the scars, and regards them as battle wounds; a part of her life that she had to overcome. “There is no point in hiding it,” she has said in other interviews prior to the one with Toronto Caribbean Newspaper.

I was able to speak in detail with her what it is like having cameras in her life, watching her every move. “I will be honest,” Auntie tells me, “You don’t see

Auntie Jillian’s now highly watched YouTube Channel demonstrates how important it is to have black women being seen as influencers. Caribbean women are layered and complex, and at times are misunderstood by their own and others. I asked her if she feels that she created her success in her mind first. I was specific with my questioning, because I have heard from many successful entrepreneurs, actors, and musicians that they had visualized their success before they even had it. Auntie opened up to me, “I have been this animated my whole life. My family tells me that as a child I was loud and very outgoing, so to be honest, I am really not surprised that I ended up in this line of work. When I was younger I would overthink everything, and I didn’t handle rejection very well, but with age comes wisdom, and now I see things different. I think that the universe definitely lays out your path for you; I choose this time to embrace it.”

Being around Auntie Jillian allowed me to see how much she embraces the Auntie role, and views it as a sign of respect and admiration from her growing fans and viewers. Her popularity is growing, so don’t be surprised if you see Auntie popping up in national commercials and making special appearances on popular television shows.

I truly enjoyed hanging out with Auntie Jillian, and it warms my heart to see a Caribbean woman embracing her roles as a matriarch. You can learn more about Auntie Jillian by visiting her on:

YouTube: @Auntie Jillian

Instagram: @askauntiejillian Auntie Jillian: Fibe TV1

Facebook: @Ask Auntie Jillian

“Now they see us!” Canada’s FIRST black family reality show, Auntie Jillian

Jillian, Warren, Myles and Milan Danford have become the new face of the Caribbean family. Each week, 22,000+ viewers tune in to watch the first Caribbean family reality show headed up by the ever popular Jillian Danford, or as many of us know her as Auntie Jillian. Auntie Jillian first appeared on her niece’s YouTube Channel LaToya’s Life (later renamed The Ali’s), and fans fell in love with her quick-witted banter, and her answers to life’s most difficult questions. Seeing the success that her suntie was having on the show, Latoya created a YouTube Channel for her aunt as a spin-off series. When it was discov-

ered that Auntie Jillian had 11,000 followers and had not even posted a video, they knew that they had something.

Up until that point, Auntie Jillian was happy with just appearing on her niece’s show from time to time, and she admits that she did not really pay any attention to social media. Thank God for good family and friends, because a group (affectionately known as The Coalition) sat her down and opened her eyes to new possibilities; this moment of clarity helped Auntie Jillian see the attraction that she drew, so she took the bull by the horns and went forward with this gifted opportunity. She decided to get her family involved and this is how Auntie Jillian was birthed. The Danfords are now paving a way for other black Canadian content creators, and there is something to be noted; the family thought strategically, and they now maintain the intellectual property rights to Auntie Jillian.

Now in their second season (slated to air in the spring 2020) Toronto Caribbean Newspaper took a trip to Pickering last week to sit in on the taping of Auntie Jillian. I am not going to give too much away because I want

you all to go ahead and subscribe to Auntie Jillian on YouTube, and also find them on Bell Fibe TV1 (the network’s streaming platform). Auntie Jillian and her son also brainstormed how to reach global audiences, and created a user-friendly solution through their pay-perview services that are available exclusively on www.itsarealting.com, where fans can watch episodes from Season One. When I arrived, Auntie Jillian was standing there waiting for me; I was instantly captivated by her radiant energy and smile. Production was on the way, but I was quickly introduced to Milan and Warren. They were in the middle of a shot, so Auntie Jillian sneaked me away to talk for a little. “I never thought that I would be doing this Simone; who knew that people would be interested in the things that happen with my family,” Auntie told me chuckling. “Knowing that we are making history is amazing, and it is good to be able to show people that we are everyday people, just like them. I think that it does give people hope; raising children is hard, marriages are hard. We all face our individual struggles, but we do it as a family and people need to see that.”

I also had an opportunity to speak with Myles and Milan. Miles had shot his scenes for the day and left, but he came back to meet with me, and chit chat a little. When I asked him what it was like to have so many followers he told me, “You know what, I don’t even watch that. I have my family and they keep me humble; of course I get noticed, but I don’t let it get to my head. I was only able to speak with Milan for a bit, but our conversation was focused more on our love for nails; I had admired hers, and she admired mine. She was happy to hear that it was a young, Jamaican woman who had done it for me, and we joked around a bit. I will admit, for a moment I felt like one of the family.

Whether it is Warren trying to pass down his Jamaican cooking heritage to Myles, or Myles having an enlightening conversation with granddad about gunja, this family is sure to have you in stiches. Toronto Caribbean Newspaper is proud of the work that the Danford’s are doing, and we encourage the community to check out Auntie Jillian and continue to lend your support to the first Caribbean family on reality TV in Canada.

Launching Carifika

“I can do something”

Continued From Page 1 -- The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was personally invited to the launch of Carifika Canada Inc. by Founder and CEO Yuri Hutchinson, a dynamic man who has not only witnessed, but has had to deal with the challenges we face in the Afro-Caribbean community; what makes him extraordinary is that he, like many trailblazers in our past, has decided to face these challenges head on in a proactive, and prolific way.

“We have to find solutions for the challenges and be ready to pick up the challenge.” ~ Yuri Hutchinson

Upon our arrival at the Carifika Canada Inc. launch, I instantaneously recognized how well thought out the organization is. I had seen their logo on the invitation sent to me, but when I was there, I truly took in its power. One of the first aspects of the logo that I noticed was that they used a gold colour as their base. The psychology of this colour implies affluence, material wealth and extravagance. Gold is the colour of success, achievement and triumph. It is a colour that is associated with abundance and prosperity, luxury and quality, prestige and sophistication, value and elegance.

Embedded in the logo are the flags representing the islands in the Caribbean, and right in the middle is the continent of Africa. They opted to use the letter “K” when spelling Carifika, because history shows us that Africa was originally spelt with a K. To complete their logo, at the very bottom is a picture of the Goddess Ma’at. Ma’at represents truth, right, justice, world order, stability, and continuity. During the time of Ancient Kemet (now recognized as Egypt), Ma’at represented harmony and unending cycles. There are also seven cardinal principles/virtues that are connected to Ma’at, they include: Truth, Justice, Balance, Order, Compassion, Harmony, and Reciprocity. Their use of symbolism demonstrates their attention to detail, and really allowed me to see what we as a community have in store for us with Carifika Canada Inc.

Before the afternoon events began, they ensured that everyone was well fed and hydrated; the launch was hosted by the beautiful Andrea Desilva, and it started with opening remarks from the CEO Yuri

Hutchinson and followed up with libation facilitated by Kuwassi Hutchinson (Spiritual Committee Member). I appreciated the idea of calling on our ancestors before we went into the breast of the launch; it is an aspect that I do not see at many events, and it was a welcome change.

During his opening speech, Yuri shared with the community his reasons for wanting to start Carifika, and the journey that led him to that point. He thanked his wife Karen, who he said had been his number one support in this venture, and he referred to her as the future of Carifika. The couple is expecting, and as the saying goes, “When a woman gives birth, she births a nation.”

We were then introduced to some of the Carifika Canada Inc. board members, and had an opportunity to learn who they are, their expertise, and what they would be offering the community. The board members of Carifika Canada Inc. who were present at the launch were:

• Founder and CEO: Yuri Hutchinson

• President of Carifika Canada: Hayden Jason Jones

• Vice-President: Kelly Skeete

• Executive Assistant: Zenobia Francois

• Chief Financial Officer: Stuart Salvara

• Director of Education of Carifika Canada: Karen Alleyne

• Community Member Curriculum (Education): Dela Dorkenoo

• Youth Deputy Director: Jerome Lawrence

• Director of Sales: Leslie Stoute

• Creative Director: Maragrette Leandre

Closer to the end of the event, the community had the pleasure of taking in the guest speaker, Ryan Knight from the Afro Caribbean Business Network, as well as being part of the panel discussion hosted by: Andria Barrett (Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce), Dewitt Lee (Black Voter Base), Takiya Sobin (Natural Kids Movement), and Kelly Skeete (Ample Financial/ Vice-President). Recognized partnerships included: Nzuri Books, Natural Kids Movement, and Children’s Aid Society of Toronto. Toronto, Ontario, Canada continues to make headway when it comes to preserving and building community systems for present and future generations, and to learn more about Carifika Canada Inc. and how you can get involved, visit them at https:// www.carifikacanada.org/

Selina McCallum TC REPORTER selina@carib101.com

Simone J. Smith

TC REPORTER simone@carib101.com

Michael Thomas

TC REPORTER michael@carib101.com

Stephen Weir

TC REPORTER stephen@carib101.com

Dave Rankin TC REPORTER dave@carib101.com

Christina Gwira TC TECH REPORTER christina@carib101.com

Paul Junor TC EDUCATION REPORTER paul@carib101.com

Noel Cunningham FOOD | CULINARY noel@carib101.com

Dr. Vikas Puri HEALTH | WELLNESS drpuri@carib101.com

Errol A. Gibbs PHILOSOPHER errol@carib101.com

Simone J. Smith HUMAN SPECIALIST simone@carib101.com

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Dave Rankin AFRICAN HISTORY dave@carib101.com

Paul Junor EDUCATION paul@carib101.com

Brittney Channer SOCIAL JUSTICE brittney@carib101.com

Christina Gwira TECHNOLOGY christina@carib101.com

Jay Brijpaul REAL ESTATE jay@carib101.com Fazaad Bacchus FINANCE SPECIALIST fazaad@carib101.com

Andrew Stewart FAMILY INSURANCE andrew@carib101.com

Kayla Karim CARIBBEAN SPORTS kayla@carib101.com

PUBLISHER | EDITOR Grant Browning grant@carib101.com

EDITOR | PROOFING Alanna Zelau alanna@carib101.com

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Caribbean Heritage Month undecided in Ontario; support for Bill 134/Bill 139

MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The Caribbean Women’s Society proclaimed October as Caribbean Heritage Month in 2018 and almost two years to that day the bill has passed its first hurdle on its way to being cleared officially.

According to the Founder and President of The Caribbean Women’s Society Camille Kerr, the group was founded in 2015, and it is managed and comprised by committed volunteer members of the community. Representatives of the organization are Caribbean and Canadian women of all ages, ethnicities and a variety of countries in the Caribbean including, but not limited to: Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, and Barbados. The reason behind this diversity she explains is simple; the more diverse the organization is, the more impact it will have on this diverse community that is the Caribbean community in Canada.

While in conversation with Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, Kerr gave one of her reasons for putting this group together, “I realize that Caribbean women in Toronto are not given the opportunity to unleash their innate leadership skills; nobody calls on Caribbean women to become leaders, and you don’t often see them in directorial positions in corporate offices, or

fully represented on boards; they don’t have an impactful voice in the overall Canadian society.” Kerr said the group meets on a monthly basis where there are workshops for the members, and seminars to attend, that helps to get information out to the community. “What we are trying to do is mobilize the community, give them a voice, give them the opportunity to lead, get them involved with the community and making sure that they understand that they are valuable. We need the help of youth and seniors too; just because seniors are retired from their jobs does not mean that we do not need to hear from them. We want to involve as many people as possible.”

Toronto Caribbean Newspaper also spoke with two MPPs who are very instrumental in doing their part for the Caribbean Heritage Month. MPP Sara Singh and MPP Michael Coteau. We had an opportunity to speak with both of them about their work on this project. Singh told Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, “One of the reasons why I am involved is that as a person of Guyanese heritage, I feel that there is something missing in terms of an official recognition of our community. We have so many other months of recognition that are celebrated I feel that there is a missing piece here for our Caribbean community.”

MPP Singh followed up by telling us, “I think for me this is an opportunity for us provincially to recognize the contributions of our vibrant diaspora community here in the province of Ontario on everything Caribbean including: arts and culture and more. It’s a chance to bring together existing programs that might be taking place in this province and just celebrate, and not just with the Caribbean community, but the broader community as a whole.

Kerr, MPP Singh, and MPP Coteau

seem to be on the same page when it comes to wanting this bill to succeed. MPP Coteau who has Caribbean roots as well said, “I think it would be an acknowledgment from the Ontario legislator of the contributions of the Caribbean culture in Toronto, in Ontario and in our country.” When asked why not choose a warm month like August instead of October for the Caribbean Heritage Month? Coteau replied, “One could argue that it is exactly when it is cold that the Caribbean culture warms this city and country up, so bringing this warmth to a month when it is cooler is a very nice reminder of the contribution from the people of the Caribbean.”

When asked what he would like the public to know about Caribbean Heritage Month Coteau responded, “The history of the Caribbean has been one that has been built on some horrific deeds, but in spite of all those challenges we have emerged as a beautiful vibrant community that has a footprint all around the world. It is the: Caribbean culture, heritage, unity of togetherness, decency, looking after each other and generosity; these are the elements that Caribbean Heritage Month will capture and share, therefore, anyone who has any connection to their Caribbean culture should be very proud; it is a history that we should be very proud to share and own.”

More information on Caribbean Heritage Month can be found at https://www. ola.org/en/legislative-business/bills/parliament-42/session-1/bill-134 or https://www. ola.org/en/legislative-business/bills/parliament-42/session-1/bill-139.

It is amazing that we have been given this option community, so take some time to visit both bills and you decide; which month should be Caribbean Heritage Month? Feel free to leave your comments.

Discovering the Isle of Flowers at France Know; How Media Tour

simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

There was a warm spot in Toronto on November 6th, 2019 at the Gladstone Hotel. Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited to the Know-How Tourism put on by Atout France. So, you might be wondering, what does France have to do with a Caribbean Newspaper; well I will get to that in a minute. Let us discover what the KnowHow Media tour is all about. Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, along with other journalists were invited to meet representatives from several destinations in Europe, and in one special stop in the Caribbean. According to Mélanie Paul-Hus (Director of Atout France in Canada), 15 million visitors were welcomed in 2018 in the 2,000 companies of the entreprise et découverte (business and discovery) network. It is a way of travelling that allows you to shift from a consumer to being an actual witness of all that French Tourism can offer.

Atout France is the State’s sole operator in the field of tourism, and they ambitiously showcase the attractiveness of the French destination to the world. They have 33 offices in 30 countries, and they cover 78 intervention markets collaborating closely with embassies, tourist customers and distribution partners. If traveling in France is what I experienced, then I can definitely see the draw to the region. I was greeted at the door with a glass of champagne, and they kept these coming. All guests were treated to different wines, cheeses, and delectable French cuisine throughout the night; while my taste buds were being tantalized, my visual senses were also being stimulated by the sights and sounds of beautiful destination points in the French tourism circuit. Our visual tour included but was not limited to:

• Introduction to the opening of Lyon’s first Cité Internationale de la Gastronomie

• The Kingdom of Ski: Les Menuires, Bal d’Isère and Val Thorens

• Brittany, the seductive island known as the land of sailors and explorers

The Loire Valley Wine Routes located in the Atlantic Loire Valley

• The French Caribbean Island of Martinique

Until a few years ago, I had no idea that Martinique existed, and this is truly a shame. It is one of the reasons that I thought it was important to share what I have learned. In January 2019 Martinique was listed on OrahMag.com as one of ‘The 19 Best Winter Getaways’. So how is it that this island has remained hidden from many of us for so long? Today, we are going to change that. I would like to introduce to the larger Caribbean community, the Isle of Flowers, Martinique.

Historical Fact

Martinique is a corruption of the Indian name Madiana (Island of Flowers) or Madinina (Fertile Island with Luxuriant Vegitation). The Caribs reported this to Christopher Columbus in 1502 (Cornevin, September 2019, Brittanica Online). Martinique is located in the heart of the Lesser Antilles between Dominica and St. Lucia. Martinique lies 3,625 kilometres from Montreal, 2,366 kilometres from Miami, and 6,857 Kilometres from Paris (La Martinique, 2019). It is 1,128 square kilometres of fragrant exotic flowers, silver-grey volcanic sand beaches, and beautiful warm people. The capital of Martinique is Fortde-France, but it used to be the city of St. Pierre, which was the biggest city in Martinique before the eruption of Mount Pelee, now known as the worst volcanic disaster of the 20th century. It has been reported that in less than a minute, the volcano destroyed the entire city of St. Pierre. More than 30,000 people died, and only three made it out alive.

The temperature is remarkably constant with average minimums of 20 -23 degrees celsius, and an average maximum of 30-32 degrees celsius. There are two distinct seasons in Martinique, a dry one, which lasts from December to June, and a rainy wintery one, which lasts from July to December. Winds from the south

are hot and humid, and like many of the other Caribbean islands, Martinique does experience the occasional hurricane.

The island is inhabited by the békés, who are the white descendants of the original French settlers. The original Carib Indian population disappeared after the arrival of the Europeans, partly as a result of disease, conflicts with the Europeans, and assimilation (Cornevin, September 2019, Brittanica Online). Slaves brought in from Africa added to the ethnic component that we see in Martinique today, and people of mixed European and African ancestry account for more than nine-tenths of the population.

When I visited Martinique in 2018, if it were not for the tropical environment, I could easily believe that this was how living in France must feel like. Martinique is a chic island that has perfectly mimicked the fashion and style of its mother country France. There has been some controversy over whether or not Martinique should remain a territory of France. Some enjoy the perks that come with having a French alle giance, and some argue that they would prefer to have their independence.

Creole; in Martinique, Creole is spoken more than it is written, and it has become part of an oral tradition passed on through island story tellers. Creole is used to teach history and to pass on traditional tales and fables central to Martinique heritage.

When and if you decide to visit Martinique pre pare yourself for a vast array of majestic land scapes, including magnificent, large mangroves. The roots of the trees are not underground, but out in the open air, and have been nicknamed, “Forests taking a foot bath.” You will definitely want to take part in the cultural heritage of Martinique by visiting their extensive network of museums that are scattered throughout the island, and finally a vacation is not a vacation if you don’t have a chance to visit the pictureperfect beaches that Martinique has to offer.

nearly enough time, so I will encourage you to visit https://us.martinique.org/ and take in all that this island has to over. I plan to make a trip next year, so stay tuned for an update in 2020.

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becoming. The internship allows students to work at Grace Kennedy subsidiaries linked to their study interests, and at the same time, they have an opportunity to learn about the land of their parents or grandparents.

Did reading this headline get you excited?

Of course, it did! Unfortunately, this article is for young people of Jamaican descent from the ages of 18-25, so if you fit this description, then I urge you to continue to read on because you have until November 30th to be a part of this amazing opportunity.

In September of this year, Grace Kennedy Limited made an announcement that has the ability to change the lives of some very well deserving young people. They have started accepting applications from second and third generation Jamaica students for its 2020 Jamaican Birth Right Programme. The cultural immersion programme invites university students of Jamaican heritage from Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States of America to participate in an all-expenses paid month-long internship in Jamaica.

Since 1982, the Grace Kennedy Foundation has established themselves in the community as proponents of education and Jamaican culture. This is one of the reasons why in July 2015, The Jamaican Birth Right Programme was reinstated. The program was seen as a way to pass on to the future generation intangible cultural heritage, which includes the stories, music and traditions of their island. Understanding one’s cultural heritage allows a person to identify with other people who have a similar background and mind set. It provides our youth with an automatic sort of belonging and unity within a group, and also allows for a better understanding of previous generations in family genealogy.

Adolescents and young people yearn to discover themselves and their role or importance in the world, and many of the answers they seek can be found in studying their heritage. It is a great way to find a starting point in life and can help to determine what you have the potential of

Only four young people are picked for this coveted internship: two from the United States, one from the United Kingdom and one from Canada. The four chosen will participate in the 2020 Jamaican Birth Right Programme that will run from July 1st, 2020–August 7, 2020. Qualifications for the program are as follows:

• Applicants must be between the age of 18 and 25 years old

• Applicants must be second or third generation Jamaican

• Applicants must be pursuing either an undergraduate or post-graduate degree

• Applicants must have a B average or higher

• Applicants must not have lived in Jamaica for more than six months and they must be eager to learn more about their Jamaican heritage

There has been much success with the program as reported by Executive Director of the Grace Kennedy Foundation, Caroline Mahfood, “The 2019 programme was very successful, and the interns had a well-rounded and fulfilling experience. With the support of our partners such as: Caribbean Airlines, Go Jamaica Travel, Island Car Rentals, the Jamaica Tourist Board, among many other government and private companies in Jamaica, the 2019 interns received a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience the business’ undertakings as well as Jamaica’s vibrant cultural traditions, from our food to music, history and so much more! They really got the chance to anchor their roots from the minute they boarded the plane.” Application forms are available at www.gracekennedy.com/birthright. Grace Kennedy Limited must receive applications no later than November 30th. For further information, interested persons can either send queries via email to gkfoundation@gkco.com or call 1-876 932-3541.

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“Women have been taking care of men since before Jesus.” ~ An American Marriage,

Literature arts has been a staple in our community; dating back to Marlon James, and Miss Lou, story telling exists in our blood, and it was why I was excited when the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited to the Toronto International Festival of Authors, a charitable, cultural organization mandated to cultivate and advance the art of literature. Since 1974, TIFA has hosted over 9,000 authors, from more than 100 countries, including 22 Nobel Laureates and renowned authors with notable designations.

and Arizona State University. She has been nominated for a Goodreads Choice Award for Best Fiction, and has won an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work (Fiction).

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After conducting some research on the festival, it was pleasing to see how for so many years, they have found a way to celebrate words and ideas. It provides an opportunity for curious readers (myself and many of you out there) to network with authors from all over the world, and for my writers, you are given an opportunity to showcase your talent to the world.

The festival began on October 24th and ran through to November 3rd, 2019. The days were filled with a range of scheduled events. Attendees had the choice to sit in at various themed events namely: Marquee Event, World Voices: Found in Translation, Poetic Escapes, Parallel Lives; Great Minds Think Alike, Interviews: Under the Spotlight, Celebrations, and Writing Academy. Some of these events were free, some were Q & A style, some were book signings, and at some, authors were debut. The event was reasonably priced with individual events at $18.00 (Standard), $15.00; 4 day passes were $65.00, and students and youth age 25 and under were FREE. The festival directors did a great job of making the events accessible regardless if you were driving, cycling, walking or taking the bus.

As I scrolled through their website figuring out which events I was going to go to, I came across one highlighting the work of Angela Davis (which was sold out), and another one highlighting the work of Tayari Jones. Let me tell you some more about Ms. Jones, and how great it was to be able to be part of Tayari Jones in Conversation. Tayari is a New York Times bestselling author, who has written four novels, two (Silver Sparrow, and An American Marriage) have been picked up for feature films. She is a graduate of Spelman College, University of Iowa

Seeing her in person on Friday, November 1st, 2019 at Fleek Dance Theatre was truly a treat. Two beautiful women (Nadia L. Hohn, and Nantali Indongo) treated the audience to riveting conversation with this dynamic soul. She first spoke about her book (An American Marriage), which follows a black couple, which have to face the husband (Roy) being wrongfully imprisoned, and the impact that it has on his wife Celestial, and the marriage. Of course, throw in another love interest Andre (who happens to be a childhood friend of Celestial’s, and a college friend of Roy’s), and you have a full fledged drama filled with personal conflict, complicated central relationships, and unique characters in difficult situations, all that is needed to capture a reader’s allegiance.

What followed was an in-depth dialogue session with the great Tayari Jones, who left the audience with thought provoking possibilities and a little insight on her life.

“My imagination lives in Atlanta.” ~ Tayari Jones

“I didn’t believe myself to be a minority, so I didn’t believe things like black people couldn’t be astronauts; If I saw a picture, and there were a group of white astronauts, I would ask, well why didn’t they let the black guy be in the picture; it didn’t occur to me that there wasn’t one,” Tayari relayed to the audience during her interview. “When I was growing up, class is what was looked at; we were all the same race, so it wasn’t that, it was class. I have a lot of first cousins who are considered a different class then me; it doesn’t stop us from being family, but it does complicate relationships.” Looking around I could tell the audience was as caught up in her as I was. She shared a little bit more about her personal and family life; her last story really had the audience laughing.

She tells us about the reaction she received when people began finding out about her book being picked up by Oprah Winfrey. She used to live above a Pawn Shop in Jersey, and the owner Big Mike called her to ask her about her book being picked up. He passed the phone around, and at the end told her that they were all proud of her, and that they were sending her a Cartier watch, it may not have papers, but it was real.

It was incredible to be a part of that night, and now, we have introduced another great avenue for our literary genius in the community. Visit the Toronto International Festival of Authors at their website to find out how you can get involved.

Cellphone ban in effect: Is it really necessary or is it simply a distraction?

PAUL JUNOR paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

The banning of cellphones in Ontario schools came into effect on Monday, November 4th. This provincial ban on the use of mobile devices became law after the province issued a directive for school boards in August 2019. The codes of conduct state, “Cellphones in class are only used: for educational purposes as directed by an educator, for health and medical purposes, and to support special education needs,” as reported in the Sunday, November 3rd issue of the Toronto Star.

There has been much discussions and conversations in the media, among

parents, guardians, educators and, education officials about the pros and cons of implementing such a ban. The decision to ban cellphones from classrooms is a result of a campaign promise made by the Conservatives before the 2015 provincial election. According to the Minister of Education Stephen Leece as quoted in the Toronto Star, “We campaigned on it, parents gave us a mandate in the consultation, and they wanted that done. We’ve given the right period of time for boards to get this up to speed and it sounds like there are ready to go on Monday.” Many school boards already have protocol in place to deal with personal electronic devices; parents, you can find the protocol by looking at your student’s agenda.

The Minister further asserts, “The aim and the objective of the ban is a greater focus in the classroom for students that increasingly face distractions.” The teachers unions have predictably responded to cellphone restrictions by arguing that nothing will change as of Monday, November 3rd.

According to Harvey Bischof, president of the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation, “It isn’t a ban; it is a distraction from things that are occurring in the education system resulting from Ford’s cuts.” The PC-led government has already increased class size in high school from 22 to 28, and then down to 25 students which has resulted in: the loss of hundreds of teaching jobs across Ontario, cancelled programs and services, elimination of support staff positions, and a plan to institute four mandatory e-learning courses that students must complete before their graduation. Many feel that banning cellphones does nothing to solve issues related to cutbacks.

According to Liz Stuart, president of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association (OECTA), the use of cellphones has been left up to the professional judgement of teachers who make decisions.

“This was the practice before the government engaged in so called consultations on the issue, and it essentially remains the practice now. This is another example of

the Ford government creating unnecessary noise and confusion around an issue,” (as reported in the Toronto Star). With an emphasis on digital fluency and literacy that is necessary to ensure that students become digital a cellphone ban or restriction will not preclude this.

According to Cathy Abraham, president of the Ontario Public School Board’s Association, it will be up to school boards how they make their decisions with respect to how individual teachers allow students to incorporate cellphones in their classrooms. Many educators are concerned how this ban will be enforced and what will be the consequences if students refuse to comply. At present, many teachers make that choice. It will be up to the school boards to show leadership on this issue by being explicit about potential consequences of non-enforcement. Mike Schreiner, Green Party leader stated pointedly “ The cellphone ban never made any sense to me. It is just one more thing to put on the backs of teachers.”

forward. One thing that I think might be beneficial to us is learning how to decipher information that is for us, and information that is there just to distract us from what we need to be focused on in our individual lives.

click away, but if you are a person who enjoys learning, and wants information without all of the filters that have been created for us, then I am going to introduce you to the S.M.E.L.L Test. SOURCE, MOTIVATION, EVIDENCE, AND LOGIC, LEFT (out of piece)

• “11 ways to seduce a man”

• “8 steps to building your influence in the social media world”

• “Breaking news, Kanye West opens up about his sex life with Kim”

Question for you; what were your thoughts when you saw these headlines? Were you curious? If you saw these headlines, would you want to know more? If so, how would you know if the information was true? Would you take the time to back up your thoughts on the article by researching other articles?

Depending on your attention to certain details, with news coming at us from so many sources, it is easy to get sucked into bogus information that literally clutters up your mental space with a whole lot of nonsense. I am still learning a lot about this media landscape, and during my learning periods, I find information that I know will help push our community

Last week when I was visiting the library, I ran across this book by Kristin Thiel called “Avoiding Clickbait.” She actually has a whole series of books dedicated to news, and media literacy. In the upcoming weeks, I am going to share some of this information with you, but for now, let us look at what clickbait is. Clickbait is defined as a headline, image, or social media post that baits or lures someone to click through to an article or video (as cited in Thiel, 2019). What clickbait does is take advantage of the reader’s curiosity gaps (gap between what you know and do not know), and fills in that gap. It is meant to appeal to your senses, what can happen sometimes, is if the information is not properly filtered, and we do not take the time to conduct our own research, then we run the risk of being subjected to fake news.

(Writers Note – Some of the media sources in this world know that you will not take the time to research, so this is one way of controlling the narrative of any story.)

Now, if you have time to be filling your mind with useless information, that is okay,

Source: Start by asking yourself some questions: who wrote this? Is this an established writer? What site was this information found on? Is the site a credible one? (This question will have many subjective answers) Asking these questions will at least help you start funnelling out the riftraft.

Motivation: All right, what does this writer really want to say? We are all born with biases, and they cannot be avoided, but the main goal of any story must be to inform you, not persuade you, or lead you down a path that satisfies them. Readers have biases too, so ask yourself some questions as well; why did you choose to read this article?

Evidence: Think to yourself, have I heard of this story elsewhere? Then start researching other sources about the story. If you look elsewhere, and you do not see the story coming up, this might just be a case of fake news, and you my friend fell for the clickbait.

Logic: Some writers may try to trick you into believing them by presenting quotes, or statistics. Again, do some research; do the details in the article you are reading support the conclusion, or is it just fluff. You have a critical eye, you have just become so used to not using it, that it is out of practice. Think back to when you were a child, or if you have children, think about all of the logic questions that they ask. Sometimes they are so logical that we get irritated at them for asking them.

Left Out: So, what is missing from this topic? Are there two sides to the story, or does the writer only present one side. Has the writer thought about differences in people’s experiences, especially when it relates to gender, geography, race, and generation? In order to get a full story there are considerations that have to be made.

I enjoyed writing this piece because as a budding journalist, I am learning as I go about telling a story, whether it is about a person, or a situation. There is so much to consider, and I want to ensure that I present the best work possible to you the readers. Give me your thoughts, and let me know about any articles that you have come across that do not pass the S.M.E.LL Test.

‘The

Rats’ a film made in St. Croix looks at crime prevention

SELINA McCALLUM

salina@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Films that are made for the Caribbean community, by the Caribbean community ensures that there is not a single story of us for the world. Controlling the narrative helps us create many perspectives and conversations around what it means to be Caribbean.

Filmmaker Ramon Richardson has finished his third feature film called The Rats. The production is based in St. Croix, which is one of the United States Virgin Islands in the Caribbean. It is an action and drama production by Admirals Pavilion Motion Pictures. Richardson is inspired by stories that he can really dive into.

WAZARI JOHNSON

wazari@carib101.com

JA - TC REPORTER

The city of Kingston has always been close to my heart, primarily because I was born and raised in the corporate area; St. Andrew to be exact. During the course of my life I have visited cities abroad and I would always make comparisons with them and Kingston; cities like: New York, Toronto, and Miami. Though these cities do have their share of problems, the collective efforts of the people who reside, work, and find their recreation in them, have made them world famous for their appeal; whether cultural, aesthetic or commercial.

I believe that over the years Kingston, to a great degree, has been left to its own process of de-evolution. What makes matters worse is that it is Jamaica’s capital. I have often thought to myself about those who have served as Prime Minister of Jamaica; if any of them have ever felt any degree of embarrassment over the state of this city/ capital. I know I would but, being an artist, I am naturally concerned about matters of aesthetics, though I have come to believe that it is an innately human trait.

What is noteworthy is that Kingston was recently designated, in December of

“As a writer, I focus on topics that the subject matter in itself has enough substance for me to make a movie about it. As a fan of hip hop and gangster movies, now that I am a filmmaker, I figured that topic is universal and my storytelling version of it would capture the attention of audiences,” said Richardson.

The Rats is about a Senator, Alphonso Akbar, who has just been elected to the U.S. Virgin Islands Senate on the premise of crime prevention.

Cast members include, Lloyd Jarvis, who plays Senator Alphonso Akbar, and Robert Grisar, who plays Tony Jeffers the special agent.

The film opens up with a message for the audience that gives them a background of what the film is about.

“St. Croix is an unincorporated territory of the United States of America with a criminal incarceration rate of only 27%. If they do not raise it to at least 45%, their government may suffer the same fate. Newly elected Senator Alphonso Akbar assumes the task of neutralizing this threat by forming ‘The Rats’.”

“Also, I figured in my competitive arena as an independent filmmaker, The Rats

would set my company apart from the rest,” said Richardson.

The film follows a character named El Nino who is a notorious drug lord. He is targeted by undercover detectives and informants that want him dead or out of business.

El Nino only cares about making money and defeating the system without getting caught, so he can continue to feed his family. ‘The Rats’ features themes of survival, loyalty, dedication and trust.

The Rats premiered in March of this year for the St. Croix community at the St. Croix Caribbean Cinemas.

It took the independent filmmaker two years to make The Rats.

“I would release short clips of it online so the actors could see the direction of the film and also to see how my subscribers react to the production. They couldn’t wait for the next episode,” said Richardson.

The Rats has so far received great feedback. However, many people felt the quality could be better.

“Many customers who bought the DVD can’t wait for a part two. The only negative response was about the production’s au-

Kingston Jamaica the creative city

2015, a creative city for music specifically. But Kingston is the hub for many forms of creative expressions. Despite my heartfelt, previous statements, I must applaud the efforts I have seen in recent times by some of our politicians where Kingston is concerned, and I will now take this opportunity to extend my thanks and respects to some members of both major political parties.

Under the tenure of former Prime Minister P. J. Patterson, and I say without any reservation, that it was one of the best moves ever made to start Kingston on the road to restoration. Some government members argued that the land should be converted into a business district, while others felt a multifunctional entertainment complex should be built on the site, but in 2002 Cabinet granted approval for the transfer of the land to the National Housing Trust on the condition that a park would be built and maintained at that location. The land was transferred for one Jamaican dollar. In July 2002, Emancipation Park came into being. I think this kind of practice must be taken into consideration while plans to restore Kingston go underway, as lower prices on lands and buildings downtown will result in more people being able to buy and be responsible for the renovations of their individual buildings.

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller made her contribution, which I also deem of great significance, by guaranteeing and overseeing the construction of the Half Way Tree Bus Terminal during her tenure. This architectural marvel has served to propel the corporate area into the twenty first century, and it really has contributed to the overall aesthetic appeal of Half Way Tree. Funded by the Belgian Government and built entirely by Jamaican

ICHF BabyHeart Trip to Guyana

construction workers, former Minister of Transport Mike Henry said the new transport center will be used as a template for others that are to be established in other major towns and cities. I look forward with great anticipation to this, as it would really enhance the overall architectural landscape of Jamaica.

Former Mayor Desmond McKenzie must be congratulated for his great work also; he made untiring efforts to clean up the city of Kingston and to keep it clean. It has been a long time since I had seen this degree of consistency in keeping the roads and major thoroughfares of our beloved Kingston in such amazing condition, and as citizens of Kingston and St. Andrew we should do our part in keeping this city clean regardless of our political affiliations, for this is our city and we should become stake holders in it.

Last, but not least, I must applaud former Prime Minister Bruce Golding’s efforts to bring back life and luster to downtown Kingston, and I do think it is insightful of him to also include the incentives, that he has, for investing in downtown Kingston.

I believe restoration for Kingston can be achieved because restoration of a similar nature has been achieved elsewhere in the world. Harlem is a perfect example of this; it has been experiencing its renaissance. Housing prices are going up everywhere you look; brownstones, Gothic and Victorian piles are being restored to their former glory, and people (who five years ago wouldn’t venture past 96th Street) are moving in in bundles. Though it is currently being rediscovered, this is not the first time Harlem has been in this state. In the 1920s through to the mid-1930s, Harlem was not only the biggest black community in the world, it epitomized chic. Harlem extends,

TCCF works with three international partners to treat poor and critically ill Caribbean children at four treatment centres. At Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto, it works with the Herbie Fund to treat children su ering from most major ailments. In Austin Texas, it works with SpineHope to treat children su ering from spinal problems such as scoliosis. In Guyana and the Dominican Republic, it works with ICHF/BabyHeart Foundation to treat children su ering from congenital heart disease. The modus operandi at the two Caribbean centres is that TCCF assists with sending medical mission teams consisting of cardiac surgeons, anaesthetists and paediatric intensive care unit nurses to deliver treatment and also train local sta in post-operative care.

dio mastering. I would watch it over and over to see what the issue is, but my ears don’t hear any discrepancies,” said Richardson.

The filmmaker is already working on his fourth film.

“I am working on a movie called The Bodyguard. It should be finished next year. I play a character Jerome Bentley that has a movie agent that wants him to relocate to America to work with bigger production studios, but Jerome senses danger in the entertainment industry and is recruiting bodyguards to accompany him,” said Richardson. Even through all the problems that can arise when making a film, like equipment failure or casting disputes, Richardson still focuses on the positives.

“I love everything about filmmaking! There is nothing I don’t like about it because the negatives that come with it cannot be avoided, and I just focus on what I can control,” said the filmmaker.

If you would like a digital copy of The Rats, please email admiralspavilionmotionpictures@gmail.com

strictly speaking, from 95th to 155th Street, in northern Manhattan. After the feverish speculation of 1905, the depression came. As fortunes went downriver, there was large-scale demolition in Lower Manhattan and a huge influx of African-Americans from the South. The catalogue of poverty, drugs, and crime, which in the late 1930s characterized the slow decline of this once great neighborhood, and this state of affairs continued well into the late twentieth century.

I think Harlem could be the blueprint for Kingston’s restoration, though it is imperative that commercial interests become more involved in downtown Kingston. The arts and culture should be included in its restoration: since Jamaica’s National Gallery, The Institute of Jamaica, The Ward Theater, and other areas of artistic and cultural interests are located downtown.

I think more cultural and entertainment interests should invest into downtown especially around the waterfront area. An approach similar to what has been taken to Miami’s south beach can be taken downtown. Many of the vacant buildings downtown could be converted into low cost artist/artisan studios and residencies, and an area could be allocated for an indoor entertainment center as issues such as noise pollution would not pose such a problem if entertainment centers were located away from concentrated residential clusters.

I hope to see a Kingston reborn, where the citizens of Kingston can look at their city with great pride and admiration, but this can only be achieved if we all work together and build a vision.

@tccfangels #tccfangels | to donate www.tccfangels.com

One sea, one voice, one Caribbean; November celebrated as Caribbean tourism month

SIMONE SMITH

simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Now that it is officially freezing outside, I know that many more of you will be paying attention to my Winter Wish List. For the last few editions, I have been highlighting some of the amazing travel opportunities for individuals who live in the Caribbean Diaspora, especially for those who live in temperate conditions that experience extreme cold, like Toronto.

What I didn’t realize is that November is the month set aside to celebrate Caribbean tourism. It is a month that the focus is on : raising awareness among Caribbean people about the importance of tourism in the Caribbean, enhancing the profile of the Caribbean tourism sector in the marketplace, attracting positive media coverage for and of the Caribbean, celebrating the diversity of what the Caribbean offers, and reflecting on the invaluable impact of tourism on the economic, social and cultural well being in the Caribbean.

The Caribbean tourism industry sparked around the time that the first hotel was built on the island of Nevis in 1778, which brought wealthy visitors to the island. This was followed with resort hotels being built on the islands of: Baha-

PAUL JUNOR

paul@carib101.com

On Thursday afternoon the Minister of Education Stephen Leece made an announcement that the PC-led government is willing to fund the average class size of 25 instead of 28 as was proposed. The increase of class sizes from the average of 22 for high school has not been well received by teachers unions. In his announcement, the Minister mentioned that this reduction is intended to show that the government is willing to avert a possible strike and ensure that teachers remain in class. The fact is that even with

mas, Jamaica and Barbados because for some reason, this region of the world was attracting some attention, and slowly but surely, an increased tourist trade started to develop. Now, tourism is one of the Caribbean’s major economic sectors, and is often described as the most tourismdependent region in the world.

The Caribbean diaspora has been the key market for cultural exports, the most notable export being music. Countries like the Dominican Republic, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago continue to export music to receiving markets in: New York, Miami, Toronto, London, Paris and Amsterdam. Music happens to pair well with festivals, and according to the Caribbean Tourism Organization, many of the 17.1 million tourist visits to the Caribbean during the first half of this year were influenced by festivals.

Before we go into the fun of festivals, I want to take a moment to introduce the Caribbean community to the Caribbean Tourism Organization. According to the UIA Open Yearbook (Yearbook of International Organizations) Caribbean Tourism Organizations came to be in 1989, after the merger of Caribbean Travel Association (originally Caribbean Travel Association), and Caribbean Tourism Research and Development Centre. Their main objective is to provide information necessary for the development of sustainable tourism. This means providing to the public some behind the scenes information on how we can maximize economic benefits that have minimal adverse social and psychological effects on the integrity of Caribbean people. I

am thankful to them because they have become one of my selected choices for reportable material on what is happening in the Caribbean, and of course, I can then get that information to you.

Back to the festivals; there is nothing that brings the spirit of the Caribbean people to life more than a great festival. They energize the communities and they entice visitors to come and be a part of the culture, beauty, warmth, and lifestyle that defines what being Caribbean is all about. Tourists are attracted to the unique: rhythm, art, sailing, lights, food, religions, literary, and dance of each individual island; there is a festival to commemorate the unique cultures and heritages which personify each region.

Many of us in the diaspora have no idea how important we are to Caribbean tourism. We have become a critical

It is still not enough; reduction in class size not enough to appease teachers unions

the change from 28 to 25, there still will be the loss of thousands of teaching jobs.

As reported in the Tuesday, October 29th Toronto Star, hundreds of high school teachers have already lost their full-time jobs. This has caused significant hardships and difficulties for these laid off teachers. According to the Ontario Secondary School Teacher’s Federation (OSSTF), there have been 266 full-time positions that have been eliminated from 10 boards. There are still many teachers who will be let go, as there are still many boards, still in the process of obtaining the exact numbers. Many of these teachers who were laid off have had to resort to supply teaching to make ends meet and may eventually have to be let go permanently. In the Toronto District School Board (TDSB), there are now about 80 laid off teachers who have been able to obtain short-term supply teaching positions.

to the Minster of Education (as reported in the Toronto Star), $24 billion is being spent currently, and there is increased spending on: special education, mental health, transportation and First Nation education. In addition, money is being spent on building and fixing schools. On Monday, October 28th, Premier Ford stated that, “With the infusion of $700 million into education, his government has spent more money than any government in the history of Ontario.” There is a $1.6 billion attrition fund that is intended to avert the loss of teaching positions, but will this cover Ontario’s losses.

component of pan-Caribbean identity, and we have become an attractive market for cultural exports. With festivals being of great significance to the people of the Caribbean, diaspora tourism has become another source of export earnings for the region.

Big tings a gwan for the Caribbean and the CTO encourages all of us (member countries community members and partners) to find a way to observe Caribbean Tourism Month. Share your events with them and they will share it to the world. You can visit them on social media at:

• Facebook: @caribbeantourismorganization

• Twitter: @ctotourism

• LinkedIn: Caribbean Tourism Organization

mond, “It is a historic strike vote for ETFO as the largest union in Canada.” The Minister of Education responded and stated, “While our government has been reasonable and the constructive force at the bargaining table focused on keeping kids in class, today ETFO has taken another step towards a strike which will disproportionately hurt our kids.”

OSSTF will be conducting a strike vote, which it expects to be completed by November 15th. There is an informational meeting scheduled for Monday, November 4th. In an update to its members, OSSTF stated that “The government plans to ultimately remove 10,000 teachers from the system, not to mention thousands of support staff positions. This represents the greatest threat to public education.” At the end of all of this, what does this mean for our community? What does this mean for parents? What does it mean for our children?

There is no doubt that the provincial government is bent on reducing spending on public education. According

The Minister of Education did not change the planned increase in class size in Grades 4-8 from 23.5 to 24.5. This clearly has an adverse impact, and negative effect on elementary teachers. It has been reported that as a result of the strike vote by 83,000 strong members of the elementary teacher’s union, ETFO shows that 98% voted in favour of a strike in the event that outstanding issues are not resolved. According to President, Sam Han-

Protecting the ones you love.

Traffic in this beautiful city of ours has a way of shifting us from our original plans. For instance, October 26th was such a day. After I finished wrapping up my Saturday afternoon class with a trio of bright students, I began my journey to take in a very wonderful community event. The Nu Narrative Literacy Empowerment Program hosted by Malek and Karee Walker of Kareative Interlude. Truth be told, I always look forward to attending events that focus on our young, especially when it comes to enhancing their creativity, like the Nu Narrative Literacy Empowerment Program brings. Its aim as per their website is to empower our young and budding creative writers through the writing, illustration and publishing process of creating your own children’s book.

Waiting for transit in between stops when you have to be somewhere will always “be the straw the breaks the camel’s back.” For some of us, anxiety kicks in and we all know how that goes. However, the positive thing for me that day was that I began to formulate a few questions I had in mind to ask Malek and Karee when I was there. It had been awhile since I’ve had the pleasure to speak with both of them in one setting. The last time I was able to do so it was on our show, Hear 2 Help You. Karee and Malek were in studio as our guests April of last year. This is where Simone and I began to learn about the talents this phenomenal duo brings to our community.

Karee, Malek’s wife is an author, artist, illustrator and just an all around creative person. Malek, a graduate of the University of Windsor, handles the day-to-day operations. Both Karee and her husband are also renowned teachers in the community as well. I mean you would have to be considering the countless amounts of children they have instructed over the years in various neighborhoods. Reflecting on the interaction with them during the in studio interview, I remember their dynamic synergy and the reasons why Kareative Interlude is a staple in our Caribbean community.

In case you were wondering what happened with the bus situation, all I will say is that I did not make it to the event, which was a bit disappointing. For this, I

KAREATIVE INTERLUDE

Creating a Nu Narrative for the city of Toronto

had to deliver pretty bad news to both my editor and Malek. However, we scheduled an interview over the phone for the following week to make up for it.

Speaking to Malek gave me some insight on the event and what’s next for Kareative Interlude. We spoke at length regarding the Nu Narrative Literacy Empowerment Program, “We like to start the program just prior to school being out for the summer and extend into the summer, so that parents and children have familiarity with us,” he first explained. The literacy program is a 12-week labour intensive yet “Kareative” process that takes place in two different locations within the inner city: the first in Jamestown and the other in the Islington and Dixon area. Thanks to Cultural Hotspot (a city funded initiative that celebrates art, culture and community) they were able to see an expansion of the program, which tremendously assisted with children seeing, “Authors that look like them,” Malek exclaimed.

As a side note, we would like to mention that The Nu Narrative Literacy Empowerment Program is not just a Community based program; Kareative Interlude has worked within schools and libraries across the GTA.

The children are not only engaged in writing and illustration; they are also involved in drumming and creative games to “Discover talents they never knew they had and foster a positive identity,” Malek continues. Plus, what child wouldn’t love to play with watercolours while exploring different aspects of the arts. During the program the Kiswahili word for self-respect, Kujistahi (pronounced koo-gee-stahee) is a major theme that is taught and shown. Respecting the 416, a collaborative approach towards fostering better relationships among all peoples of the “six” is an example of programing that highlights the theme of Kujistahi.

After the 12 weeks, the children are given awards for their dedication at the Nu Narrative Wrap Up, the event I was supposed to attend. Among the highlights, Malek advises that, “The children’s efforts are to be combined into a group book.” This is to go along with the other children’s books Kareative Interlude has published throughout the years,

titles including “The Bee Leaf “and “Mommy & Daddy Said.” Malek also informed me that they have 3 more children’s books to be released soon.

Malek elaborated on strategies that have assisted with the company’s growth. “Having toured in 20 different states and as well as the UK, we’ve allowed ourselves to expand outside of our normal circle.” This has enabled Karee and Malek to participate in over 100 different outlets and network with authors from all over the world. Speaking of networking and establishing partnerships, Malek wanted to say thank you to the city of Toronto, Tim Horton’s, No Frills, Vegan4You, Patti World and a whole host of others who have “Gave great energy,” in making the Nu Narrative Literacy Program a success across the city. Truth be told, this just marks the tip of the spear for this pair.

With a clothing line, the Kareative Kollection (a group of 8 African-CaribbeanCanadian children’s writers & illustrators), web design/management, print and distribution services, Kareative Interlude will remain as the staple our community needs for literacy empowerment. As for what’s next, Malek advised that Kareative Interlude would be participating in various PopUp shops for the rest of the year. Which is beautiful since Christmas and Kwanzaa is just around the corner.

For more information please connect with Malek & Karee at www.kareativeinterlude.ca.

Why you

should hire a snow removal service

4 ways to help snow removers get the job done right

Thanks in part to the size of their tractors, snow removal service employees need your help to ensure that they’re able to do their job. Here are four things you can do to make certain you get the service you deserve.

1. KEEP YOUR DRIVEWAY CLEAR

Make sure your driveway is free of clutter. Shovels, sleds, hockey equipment and other winter accessories can prevent snow removers from clearing your driveway and may even damage their equipment.

2. BE CAREFUL WHERE YOU LEAVE YOUR BINS

Trash, recycling and compost bins should be removed from your driveway as soon as they’ve been emptied. Avoid

leaving them in areas where snowbanks are likely to form. If you can’t keep them out of the way entirely, try to position them so they won’t be an encumbrance.

3. MOVE YOUR VEHICLE

If possible, park your vehicle at least two-and-a-half metres away from your driveway so the plow can remove snow from it without having to manoeuvre around your car.

4. REMOVE ICE

If your driveway is icy, you should use ice melting products or abrasives. Doing so will reduce the risk that you or someone else will slip and fall. It’ll also prevent the snowplow from sliding on the ice and potentially losing control. This is especially important if your driveway is sloped.

Snow removal service employees do their best to ensure your driveway is kept free of snow. This winter, help them help you by doing your part.

Are you planning to shovel your own driveway this winter? If so, you may want to reconsider. Here’s why hiring a snow removal service is the better choice.

TO AVOID INJURING YOURSELF

If you live in an area that receives a lot of snow, you may not be able to keep up, and trying to could spell disaster. After heavy snowfalls, emergency rooms are packed with people suffering from heart issues, fractures, hematomas, back pain and muscle strains.

Shovelling snow is an intense physical activity and thousands of people injure themselves doing it every year, sometimes fatally. If you’re not in peak physical shape, it may be safer to let professionals remove the snow from your driveway.

TO PREVENT ACCIDENTS

Ice and snow that isn’t promptly or properly removed could cause an injury. If you live with children, pets or elderly family members, keeping all pathways and driveways clear is important for preventing slip-and-fall accidents. Plus, removing snow in a timely manner prevents it from

harde ning into ice, which is more difficult to remove and can be very dangerous.

TO SAVE YOURSELF THE TIME AND EFFORT

Hiring a contractor to remove your snow means you won’t have to worry on those mornings when you wake up to a thick blanket of snow covering your driveway. In fact, your driveway is likely to be cleared well before you need to leave the house, as snow removal companies typically let you work out a schedule for when they should come.

Once you’ve found a reputable contractor to remove your snow, be sure to sign a contract with them. Some companies have a limited number of clients they can take on.

Many companies will also remove snow from the pathways and stairs on your property, which is very useful for anyone dealing with mobility issues.

CULINARY MATTERS

Kitchen essentials; Tools and utensils you must have in your kitchen

This week I am here to ease some of your stress with my basic kitchen tools that you need to get by in your everyday busy life. Moving in your brand new house, apartment or going on your own for the first time can be super stressful. So many things to get and you don’t know where to start. I’m not a home expert but as your culinary expert I can definitely help you get started in your kitchen. Here are 10 cool kitchen gadgets that will make your time in the kitchen easy and productive.

KNIVES

Knives are the most important tool you’ll use in your kitchen, it’s important to buy highquality knives the first time around instead of skimping. Every kitchen needs at least three sharp knives: a chef’s knife to do the bulk of your everyday cutting, a serrated knife for cutting bread, and a paring knife for slicing or mincing smaller items.

CUTTING BOARDS

To go along with your new, sharp knives, you’re going to need some cutting boards! They come in all shapes, sizes, and varieties.

Anyone should work. I recommend starting with a medium size board.

MIXING BOWLS

Mixing bowls are often overlooked but they are very essential kitchen tools. Just try mixing a cake without them! They come in many different materials, but I prefer my glass mixing bowls or stainless steel. They’re easy to clean, dishwasher safe, and don’t react to any food products.

MEASURING CUPS & SPOONS

Again, try to make a cake without measuring cups and measuring spoons. You’re going to have a hard time. I like the metal measuring spoons because they are easy to clean. Don’t forget your liquid measuring cup.

CAN OPENER

You’re going to have a hard time opening that can without one of these gadgets! A can opener is a must have in every kitchen.

COLANDER/ STRAINER

Colanders or strainers come in handy when it’s time to drain your cooked pasta or veggies. This is one of the kitchen tools you might use every day.

SPOONS, WHISKS, SPATULAS, LADLES, AND TONGS

All of these utensils are necessary if you’re planning to cook anything. Wooden spoons are among my favorite for making soups and sauces. Having a slotted spoon helps to make cooking easier and safer when removing something from the pan without the liq-

uid. You will definitely need a spatula to flip your eggs, tongs to pick up any fried food or to serve your salads. A whisk will come in handy when it’s time to scramble some eggs or whisk your sauce.

VEGETABLE PEELER

I don’t only use my peeler for peeling vegetables, but I also use it for preparing salads. I love shaved carrots on my salads! It’s much more efficient than using a normal grater. It’s also perfect for shaving your corn kernel off the cobs. You will use this tool the most along with your knife

HAND MIXER

Hand mixers always come in handy when you want to bake a cake at home, especially around the festive season. The last thing you want is to be ready to bake and don’t have one. They are very inexpensive.

CORKSCREW

And finally corkscrew makes my top 10 list. Imagine you are hosting and it’s time to open the wine and there is no corkscrew? Get a standard waiter’s corkscrew that will open both beer and wine.

Remember a fully stocked kitchen with cookware, tools, and utensils, doesn’t have to be frustrating or cost a lot of money. When purchasing your gadgets think good quality that will last you for a long time. Also look for sales on these items at your favorite store or online. Happy cooking!!

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We understand how di cult it is to lose a loved one. Our compassionate and caring team work hard each and every day to make sure that the members of our community and beyond are taken care of during such a di cult time. For advice on what to do when a loved one is dying, making funeral arrangements, pre-arranging your own funeral, or anything else, please feel free to contact us, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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CHUKWUNONSO EZEKWUECHE

Looking fabulous & making a statement

From the moment I met Chukwunonso (aka, Dr. Nonso), I knew that I was dealing with an entirely different energy. When I met this pharmacist turned fashion influencer, he stood out in a very unique way; he was wearing a colourful, bold jacket, with no shirt, and gold chain placed strategically between his chest bones. His shoes were slender, lightweight looking, and pointed; he had a charisma about him that was distinguishable, and his attitude could be considered by some as haughty, but I learned after speaking with him that it was because he oozed of natural confidence. I could tell right away that this was a man who took great pride in his appearance, and his over 75,000 followers on Instagram are testament to the legacy that Dr. Nonso is creating for himself. It is time to step into the world of men’s fashion; I would like to introduce to you Classic Man, Chukwunonso Ezekwueche. It took a while for us to actually get our interview set up; we had connected at African Fashion Week, and since then I have been following him on Instagram. Dr. Nonso has a way of standing out, and looking ever like a proper gentleman. His style is recognizable, and he can shift from wearing very structured fitting suits, to casual fabrics with a less tailored fit. He can pull off coloured and decorated leather shoes and can wear a Blake stitch, giving him a slimmer silhouette that looks out of balance with some North American fashion trends, but looks perfect with an Italian suit. When talking with Dr. Nonso, I learned that he has two passions: fashion and pharmaceuticals, hence the Dr that he puts in front of Nonso.

“Tell me a little bit about your life before you came to Canada Nonso, “ I asked. “Of course Simone! I am from the beautiful country of Nigeria and I am the youngest child. My parents moved back to Anambra after they had sojourned in Minna (Niger state, Nigeria) for a few years. My mom is a retired banker, and my late father was a businessman. I completed my primary and secondary school education in Anambra state, Nigeria and then went ahead to get my degree in Pharmacy (PharmD) from the University of Benin (Edo State, Nigeria). It took me six years to attain my degree, so when I moved to Canada in 2017, I was a little disappointed that in order to utilize my degree here, I would have to pretty much start all over again.”

“Would you say that this discouraged you?” I asked. “It did and it didn’t. Working in the pharmaceutical industry is something that I know I am destined to do, but I also knew that I had another passion that I could dive into as I worked on getting into the pharmaceutical industry here in Canada.” “And this is how you sprung into the fashion industry,” I replied. “Yes, but I had already been doing this before I even came to Canada.”

Nonso continues, “I come from a line of fashionistas; I watched my father and my older brothers dress up all the time, and I saw the type of attention that they garnered dressing the way they did. I also noticed how men like Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, and Adebayo Jones were able to take a look, and grab the attention of millions. When I came to Canada, I noticed that not as much interest was paid to men’s fashion, as it was to women’s fashion. Men’s fashion was just not where it was supposed to be, so I decided to brand myself as an ambassador, and I started a crusade to show men how to dress without breaking the bank.”

“What has the reaction been to you since you started this

crusade?” I questioned. “It has definitely been a very positive one, which has only encouraged me to do more of what I do.”

Nonso has had the opportunity to work with a handful of men’s fashion and lifestyle brands in Canada, and the United States of America. Doing so has helped these brands enter into new target markets, and he does it by creating eye-catching, and stylish content in the form of pictures and videos. A look at his Instagram page shows how serious Nonso takes his influencer role, and because of this he has been asked to work with brands including: Fashion Nova Mens, Original Penguin, World Remit, Daniel Wellington, Alfred Sung, and Peter Hunt. He has been featured in: Vanguard, The Nation, Sun News Online, Legit, and PM news, and most recently Business Day. He has also had the opportunity to contribute his expertise to www.pulse.ng where he educates men on how to develop their own style.

“What would you say is your favourite style because you rock so many of them?” I asked.

“I don’t have a particular style; I am versatile. My ideal look is a dress shirt, some loafers and some pants,” was Nonso’s response. “What is something about you that people may not know?” “ I love networking and I actually really enjoy singing,” Nonso tells me chuckling, “I used to be in the choir at church, and secretly, I think it would be cool to be a wedding singer or something.”

Nonso attributes his success to God, a creative mind, his thousands of supporters, and the tools he has been provided with for content creation. “I am always on the look out for brands who would like to do some work together. I would love everyone to check out my Instagram page @_nonsky, and let me know what you think.”

Fashion is one aspect of our lives that will never go out of style, and now our community has a great man of influence to help lead the way into our fashion future.

Written

OLD FASHIONED JAMAICAN GINGER BEER & SWEET POTATO PUDDING heaven! A match made in

NOEL CUNNINGHAM

noel@carib101.com

CULINARY EXPERT

This week I’m sharing two traditional classics that you can easily make at home to warm things up during this winter season. Recently I shared a picture of my sweet potato pudding I made on my Instagram and everyone loved it. Not to mention those on Facebook. Sweet potato pudding is the ultimate quintessential Jamaican dessert of all times hands down. Growing up I would always see my mom making sweet potato pudding on a Sunday, this was the best time ever. She would make it outdoors on the coal fire in a dutch pot

with a piece of zinc on top with more coal fire. That’s how sweet potato pudding got the name “hell a bottom, hell a top and hallelujah in the middle”. My favorite part of the pudding was the crust when it’s slightly burnt. She would often pair it with homemade ginger beer. This is the perfect time to have a taste of home.

Sweet Potato Pudding

Ingredients

• 2 lbs sweet potato

• ½ lb yellow yam

• 1 cup flour

• 2 cups coconut milk

• 2 tbsp rum

• 1 tbsp vanilla

• 2 tsp grated nutmeg

• 2 tsp cinnamon

• 1 tsp mixed spice

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp margarine

• 1 cup soaked raisins

Topping

• 1 cup coconut milk

• 1/3 cup sugar

Instructions

1. Wash, peel, cut and grate sweet potatoes and place in a large mixing bowl.

2. Combine together flour, mixed spice, raisins, salt, and nutmeg.

3. Combine this mixture with the grated potatoes and mix well.

4. Add sugar, vanilla, rum, and coconut milk. Mix well.

5. Grease pan, pour in batter, bake at 350 degrees F for an hour or until done.

6. When pudding is almost done and firm, mix together 1 cup coconut milk with sugar and pour on the top and allow it to set for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Ole Fashioned Jamaican Ginger Beer

Ginger beer is a popular Jamaican beverage. Ginger not only tastes good, but it’s good for your health! Ginger beer is per-

fect to make ahead and store in the refrigerator.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Jamaican ginger

• 4 limes, squeezed

• 10 cups boiling water

• Sugar to sweeten

Instructions

1. Wash and clean the ginger thoroughly removing all the dirt then roughly chop into small pieces.

2. Puree in a blender with 2 cups of water. Pour the mixture in a large container and add the lime juice, and 4 cups of boiled water then leave it to steep for 2-4 hours. For best results, strain using a fine strainer then sweeten to your taste and serve chilled!

Chef Notes: Traditional Jamaican ginger beer is not fizzy. The cream of tartar (or traditional chew stick) is used to ferment the drink to deepen the flavour.

You may think chiropractors are only able to help with back aches, stiff necks, slipped discs and whiplash injuries. However, chiropractic care can improve many conditions.

Chiropractic care is based on the understanding that a healthy nervous system can activate your own innate healing potential and result in many positive outcomes. Misaligned vertebrae in the spine decrease nerve flow to our organ systems, increase stress hormone in the body and impair our health and vitality. Chiropractors detect these misalignments, known as vertebral subluxations, and remove them naturally through chiropractic adjustments. Here are some common conditions that can improve under chiropractic care.

Migraines and tension headaches: Nine out of ten Americans suffer from headaches. Some are occasional. Some are persistent. Some are

Did you know chiropractic care helps with these conditions?

dull and nagging, while others cause debilitating pain and nausea. Taking a painkiller and hoping your headache goes away is one option. But there’s a better one.

In a clinical trial conducted at Macquarie University, 72% of migraine sufferers experienced either “substantial” or “noticeable” improvement after a period of chiropractic treatment. In fact, most headaches are related to muscle tension in the neck, which is an increasingly common condition among Americans who spend hours in the same position or posture (such as in front of a computer or television), leading to muscle tension and subluxations in the neck that cause headaches.

Stress and anxiety: Stress can be classified under three major categories. Environmental stress includes noise, weather, physical threats, time pressures and performance standards. Physical stress includes disease processes, organ malfunction, poor nutrition, poor sleep and physical injury. And emotional stress is more difficult to define, but it encompasses our reactions, in both thought and emotion, to environmental and physical stressors.

Many illnesses are caused or worsened by stress, which activates our “fight or flight” reaction. This systemic reaction affects almost every part of the body, as the hypothalamus in the brain stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, which causes an increase

in heart rate, blood volume and blood pressure, redirecting blood away from our digestive system and extremities. When prolonged, the long-term effects of this state can be disastrous to good health and cause high blood pressure, muscle tissue damage, diabetes, infertility, damage to the immune system and slowed healing from disease and injury. Chiropractic adjustments can reduce spinal nerve irritation and improve blood circulation, which can help signal the brain to turn off the “fight or flight” response and begin the healing process.

A chiropractor can also recommend relaxation techniques and discuss posture and environmental changes to help you recover from chronic stress.

Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder involving widespread pain and sensitivity throughout the entire musculoskeletal system. To be diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a patient typically has a minimum of 11 out of 18 specific tender points on the body. In addition to pain, patients also report long-term fatigue and/or disturbed sleep and mood. Other disorders commonly associated with fibromyalgia include irritable bowel syndrome, TMJ pain and dysfunction, psychological conditions and some autoimmune diseases.

Fibromyalgia is a widespread condition that affects about 2% of the United States,

and medical science has yet to discover the cause of this condition.

In one study, 60% of fibromyalgia subjects treated by a chiropractor experienced a significant improvement: reduced pain, improved sleep and decreased fatigue. Weak immune systems: The nervous system, endocrine system and immune system are inextricably linked. It’s important to note here how the endocrine system also impacts the immune system by producing cortisol in the adrenal glands – endocrine glands that are directly connected to the nervous system through the sympathetic nervous system – a stress hormone that inhibits the immune system.

One research group found that when an adjustment was applied to a subluxated area, the white blood cell count collected rose significantly.

Another study measured the effects of six months of regular chiropractic care on the immune system function of HIV patients. At the end of six months of care, the patients who had received regular adjustments showed a 48% increase in the number of CD4+ T cells, whereas patients who had not been adjusted showed an 8% decrease in CD4+ T cells. Visit your local chiropractor today and experience health and well-being like you never have before.

Can you drive if you have epilepsy?

Individuals afflicted with a seizure disorder may be able to drive in some cases, either with a regular licence or one that imposes certain restrictions. While the specifics are regulated provincially, in general, those with epilepsy may be able to drive if:

• They’re on medication that prevents seizures

• They haven’t had a seizure in a certain number of months (it can range from three to 24, depending on local laws)

• They only have nocturnal seizures

• Their seizures don’t impact their consciousness or cognition

• They submit medical reports attesting to their competence

In all cases, those with a seizure disorder should confer with their doctor when determining whether or not it’s safe for them to drive. However, even if the doctor attests that the individual can drive safely, the final decision rests with the provincial licensing agency.

5 myths about Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is poorly understood. To prevent stigmatizing those afflicted, here are five long-standing myths about it that need to be dispelled.

1. ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

ONLY AFFECTS MEMORY

While memory loss is the symptom that’s most often associated with Alzheimer’s disease, the condition can cause a host of other cognitive issues. For instance, it may manifest as a loss of interest in one’s favourite pastimes, a loss of co-ordination such as difficulties with eating or getting dressed, word repetition, getting lost in familiar surroundings and becoming easily agitated.

2. ONLY SENIORS ARE AFFECTED

We tend to think of Alzheimer’s disease as only affecting the elderly. However, while people over 65 years of age are more likely to be diagnosed, early-onset Alzheimer’s

can afflict people in their forties or fifties.

3. LIFE STOPS AT DIAGNOSIS

A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease doesn’t mean the individual’s life is over. With treatment and close monitoring, it’s possible to pursue projects and live a fulfilling life for many years after the disease is detected.

4. PEOPLE WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE ARE VIOLENT

Alzheimer’s disease manifests in varying ways among different people. Some individuals diagnosed with it may express their frustration in aggressive ways, but this doesn’t occur universally. Ensuring those with Alzheimer’s have a calm and stable environment will reduce the likelihood of violent behaviour.

5. IT’S POSSIBLE TO PREVENT ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

There’s no way to entirely prevent Alzheimer’s. However, it’s possible to significantly reduce your risk of developing it by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Stay active, eat well, and above all, avoid smoking. Tobacco smoking increases your risk of developing cognitive disease by up to 45 per cent. Maintaining a healthy social life is also important.

Medical marijuana: what you should know about CBD oil

Cannabidiol (CBD), a molecule extracted from cannabis, is making waves in the me dical community. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is a non-psychoactive substance. Its therapeutic virtues, however, have caught the interest of researchers. Here’s what you should know about CBD, which is available in oil, gel cap and capsule form.

POSSIBLE

USES

CBD oil can be used to help with a number of health conditions. Doctors may prescribe it for the following:

• Anxiety

• Arthritis

• Chronic pain

• Epilepsy

• Inflammation

SIDE EFFECTS

• Insomnia

• Migraines

• Nausea

• Parkinson’s disease

Several high-level athletes, including cyclists and runners, feel that CBD allows them to perform better. This is because it helps them to manage the pain associated with their strenuous workouts.

A number of people have reported digestive issues, dry mouth, drowsiness, fluctuations in blood pressure and other effects from consuming CBD. While everyone reacts differently, these side effects are often mild and temporary.

If you’d like to try CBD oil to improve your quality of life, consult a health care professional. They’ll make sure that the product you use is right for you and compatible with any medication you’re taking.

To learn more about the effects of cannabis on your overall health, visit canada.ca/en/services/health/campaigns/cannabis.

How to prevent food poisoning

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, one in eight people are affected by foodborne illnesses every year. Most are caused by E. coli, listeria, norovirus and salmonella. These infections can often be prevented. Here’s how.

PREPARE AND STORE FOOD PROPERLY

Health Canada recommends that you rinse fruits and vegetables under cold running water. This includes those you peel before eating. It’s also recommended that you keep lettuce and leafy vegetables in the refrigerator for no more than seven days.

When handling meat, make sure to take steps to prevent cross-contamination. Never use the same cutting board for both raw meat and vegetables, and always wash your hands afterwards. Additionally, it’s best to adhere to the Health Canada recommended cooking temperatures and storage guidelines.

OPT FOR LOCAL PRODUCE

If your produce is contaminated by bacteria like E. coli, rinsing it under tap water won’t get rid of it. However, one way to reduce the risk of food poisoning is to privilege local products, as Canada has some of the

strictest food safety rules on the planet.

KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR PRODUCT RECALLS

The best way to protect yourself and your family from foodborne illness is to stay informed about product recalls. Food poisoning can be serious, and that’s why the Canadian Food Inspection Agency maintains an active social media presence by informing consumers about recalls through Facebook and Twitter. In addition, you can download the Recalls and Safety Alerts mobile app for free from the App Store, Google Play or the Amazon Appstore.

SYMPTOMS OF FOOD POISONING: Food poisoning symptoms resemble those of gastroenteritis. They’ll typically include abdominal cramps, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, fever and headaches. Rest, proper hydration and a progressive return to a healthy diet is often enough to get you through a case of food poisoning. However, if your symptoms are severe, persist for several days or you notice the presence of blood in your stool or vomit, seek medical attention immediately.

What is human enlightenment?

What is human enlightenment? What does it mean to be enlightened? Is it similar to “The age of enlightenment?” Enlightenment, French siècle des Lumières (literally “century of the enlightened”), German Aufklärung, a European intellectual movement of the 17th and 18th centuries in which ideas concerning God, reason, nature, and humanity were synthesized into a worldview that gained wide assent in the West and that instigated revolutionary developments in art, philosophy, and politics. Central to enlightenment thought were the use and celebration of reason, the power by which humans understand the universe and improve their condition. The goals of rational humanity were considered to be knowledge, freedom, and happiness” (https:// www.britannica.com/event/ Enlightenment-Europeanhistory).

This brief discourse about “human enlightenment” does not refer to the “age of enlightenment” described by post-medieval times. It is about the light that comes from the relationship between human beings and the source of God’s divine light that illuminates human life —referred to in Biblical literature (John 8:12).

The benefits of this source of light that radiates throughout the world are twofold. (1) It heightens the access to the knowledge, wisdom, and understanding of God —our Vertical Relationship (VR). (2) It transforms the behaviour of people towards each other —our Horizontal Relationship (HR). Paradoxically, many seem to view the quantum leap in material accomplishments of the postmodern world as the primacy of human existence.

The VR with God awakens humankind to the understanding that we are “spiritual beings” striving to master the human experience —living temporarily in mortal bodies. The connection

between the human spirit and God’s Spirit enhances “mortal life.” A broken relationship leads to spiritual death. Similarly, a tree draws nutrients from the soil to sustain “botanical life.” Likewise, taking the roots out of the ground, the tree dies —prematurely.

Spirituality is not an abstract notion. A spiritual person is one who demonstrates the “fruit of the spirit” in his or her life in public and private, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no

Observe: Humankind has arrived in the twenty-first century, bewildered and dejected with the state of our postmodern world. We cannot go back to the modern or premodern times, but we can begin a new search for “human enlightenment.” What should the searcher expect to find in an enlightened “new” era of high civilization? Unmistakably, a world bolstered by social and economic equity, technological empathy, fairness and justice, health and happiness, and prosperity for all.

law (Galatians 5:22-23).

Is human enlightenment merely the product of social, cultural, educational, economic, scientific, and technological achievement? These attainments underpin sophisticated lifestyles emphasized by the pursuit of money, material wealth, and power. They foster essential creativity and innovation that fueled the first Industrial Revolution (1700s – 1900s) financed by the capitalist class, and facilitated by the political elites, up to the fourth Industrial Revolution (https://www.sentryo. net/the-4-industrial-revolutions/).

Religious (Spiritual) absolutes have mostly given way to Agnosticism, Neopaganism, Spiritism, Universalism, Humanism, and Zoroastrianism, as well as the more familiar world religions, some of which date back to antiquity, and new religions that have come to the surface as alternatives to religious orthodoxy. Hence human lives have become less fulfilling, evidenced by a diminished capacity to order our steps (Jeremiah 10:23) (circa 622 BCE).

The reality of our postmodern era is that humankind has arrived in the twenty-first century at the crossroads of enormous financial and material progress, on the one hand, a decline in spiritual, moral, social, and intellectual growth on the other hand. Perpetual wars against each other in a vain pursuit of peace, security, and supremacy are symptomatic of minds filled with darkness as opposed to light.

The first imperative of human growth and development ought to be spiritual enlightenment (SE), which surpasses other forms of enlightenment, such as financial, material, and scientific. SE ought to underpin Scientific Intelligence (SI). Ironically, SI has ascended as the preeminent answer to the longing for origin, meaning, and purpose of life.

Notwithstanding, humankind has been thrust: Manifestly unprepared into a world of exponential growth in materialism. Corresponding, an increase in the number of upper and middle-class families with money, and material wealth, personified enlightenment. This new epoch of assertiveness fostered the growth of academia, underpinned by the university network through the world and scholarly narratives, which largely excludes God as the Creator of the universe.

Human civilization can only achieve the high goals of enlightenment through education, but only through a “new” paradigm that embraces a Wholesome Education Curriculum (WEC), founded in five foundational elements of human development —spiritual, moral, social, intellectual, and physical. This new approach establishes the basis for the enlightenment of peoples and nations, and not merely education that principally, advances “Academic Information Literacy” (AIL). WEC underlies the solutions to all of the problems facing humankind, within marriage, family, community, corporation, and nation. It helps the individual to see beyond the narrow ambit of self —beyond race, class, religion, culture, colour, gender, and nationality. With this new understanding of a WEC —a new frontier of “human enlightenment” is achievable in the postmodern era.

No contracts please! The power of words Part II

SIMONE SMITH

simone@carib101.com HUMAN SPECIALIST

Last edition, I introduced an idea that is familiar to some, unfamiliar to others, and some readers are so in tune, that last article made total sense. I promised you all that this edition I was going to equip you with information on some words that we use daily without realizing the power that they hold. Question for you; were you able to do any research, and did you find some words of power for yourself? If not, don’t worry! This week you get a second chance to do this, and it might make a little more sense to you after reading this article.

I believe we left off at phonetics and how pronouncing each word has specific relevance. I also believe we spoke on the spelling of each word, so let us move on to how placing these words in a specific geometrical way can harness power.

“Raise your words, not voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.” ~ Jalaluddin Rumi

When we think about magic, we always seem to give it this supernatural rever-

ence (which in all technicality, it should be reverenced), but I notice that it is always paired with witches, or voodoo, and one has to think, is there a reason for this. When you think of the phrase magic spell, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Some of you may have thought of a chant, or a mantra; some of you may have thought of it in the sense of it being a curse; some of you may have thought of it as blessings given from the most high. Guess what, you are all right! It is not a coincidence that they call it a magic spell and that if you put certain words together in the right way, you can cause joy, or harm to someone. Hmmmm! Think about that for a second, and then move on to the rest of the article.

“How often misused words generate misleading thoughts.” ~ Herbert Spencer

Let us start really simple; let us look at the word CONTRACT. I used to laugh at my partner Dave, and at first I would get irritated when he would shake his head if I used any word that started with CON. I only laughed until I began to learn more about the power of words, and now, I find myself looking for other words to fill the space of any word that I would use that starts with CON. Let’s take a deeper look at the word CONTRACT. The word contract comes from old French contract and Latin contractus. A contract is very powerful because it can be used to trick you to give up your power. Contracts bind you to certain

terms and conditions, limiting your choices and opening you up to serving the demands of another person’s terms.

As a verb, the word CON is defined as, “something (such as a ruse) used deceptively to gain another’s confidence.” Synonyms for CON are: bamboozle, dupe, hoodwink, and swindle. The word tract is defined as, “A brief treatise or pamphlet for general distribution.” Synonyms for tract include: portion, section, and plot. Now, what I want you to do is put these words together, and tell me the different combinations you get; I have put some below for your review:

• Swindle treaty

• Bamboozle section

• Hoodwink portion

Hmmmm……

Basically, when you get into a contract with your employer, a company (Bell, Rogers), your mortgage (hem,hem), you are entering a deceptive treatise. I can almost bet many of us have never thought of it this way; I know until most recently, I didn’t.

I realize now that, this is going to take more than just two editions, so how about this; take care of that homework I gave you, and we will touch back at the end of November, and I will let you in on some more words. Until then, don’t go entering into any contracts; let us enter into agreements instead.

Financial literacy matters; helping students to learn about the power of money

Financial literacy has become very important to the younger generation in all grades, levels and areas of school. The role that money plays in their lives has become a priority as issues around money management and fiscal responsibility has become significant in their social, economic and financial world. According to Investopedia it is explained as, “The education of various financial areas including topics related to managing personal finance, money and investing.” According to Wikipedia, “It is the possession of skills and knowledge that allows an individual to make informed and effective decisions with all financial resources.” Financial literacy is thus a basic life skill that is integral to one’s economic life and enables the individual to plan, organize, budget, coordinate and control one’s future and destiny.

The ministry of education has recognized the importance of financial literacy in student’s lives and has taken steps to ensure that the students acquire fundamental knowledge and skills with respect to the wise and mature use of money. The government has seen fit to emphasize the teaching of financial concepts to elementary school students across the curriculum

in subjects such as: social studies, history, geography, Canadian and world studies programs as well as mathematics. According to a ministry of education document “Students also examine practical financial matters in order to develop their ability to make informed economic choices in their day-to-day-lives. This will no doubt contribute to the development of strategies for managing money.

In the ministry’s document titled “A Sound Investment: Financial Literacy Education in Ontario Schools, 2010” the vision of financial literacy is clearly stated, “Ontario students will have the skills and knowledge to take responsibility for managing their personal and financial well–being, with confidence, competence, and a compassionate awareness of the world around them.” This all-encompassing vision is crucial and critical to the development of life skills and values. In addition, it has a vital role to play in preparing young people to take their place as informed, engaged and knowledgeable citizens in the global economics. Furthermore, the document reinforces that “This education can provide the preparation Ontario students need to make informed decisions and choices in a complex and fast-changing financial world.” In this regard, Ontario’s students need to learn a wide range of topics that include but are not limited to the specifics of saving, spending, borrowing and investing especially in the early grades.

In addition to learning basic financial terms, students are expected to develop skills in the areas of problem solving, inquiry, decision-making, critical thinking and critical literacy related to fi-

nancial choices. Furthermore according to the document, “Being responsible citizens in the global economy, they will need to understand the social, environmental and ethical implications of their own choices as consumers.”

In high school all the grade 11 math courses have a financial unit in which students are taught about: managing money, simple and compound interest, credit, annuity and investments. According to www.creditcanada.com, “Anything you acquire for future income or benefit. Investments increase by generating income (interest or dividends) or by growing (appreciating) in value. Income earned from your investments and any appreciation in the value of the your investments increase your wealth.” Students learn that when interest is paid on previously earned interest as well as original deposit or investment, money can grow much faster. The opposite side is compound interest you are charged if you make purchases on a credit card. Students should be aware of impulse buying and having a good credit score.

In Canada, November has been designated Financial Literacy Month to encourage Canadians to take control of their financial well-being and invest into their financial future by leaning about topics of personal finance. Canada has also established a government entity to “Promote financial education and raises consumer’s awareness of their rights and responsibilities, known as the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC). Further Information is available at www.Canada.ca/enfinancial

The 2nd intermediate period – the Hyksos Invasion Part 1

In our last installment we highlighted the events that transpired during the Middle Kingdom, a period that began with the military campaigns of the Mentu-hotep’s. Everything that rises in glory eventually comes to an end, as with the case that ended the Middle Kingdom and what ensued afterwards happens to be one of the most documented accounts in Ancient Kemetian history.

After the passing of the Sobekhotep’s, namely Sobekhotep IV, and their lack of diplomatic and military know how,

it led to a much weaker 13th dynasty. One pharaoh that comes to mind is the pharaoh Khendjer. We make mention of his name because he happens to be one of the earliest known pharaohs of Semitic origin. As a side note, the word “semite” may have its roots in the geographical region known as Asia. We must make sure the reader is aware that it also has the root word “semi”, which means “half”. Half of what, you may ask. Well, that’s a very good question.

Khendjer’s throne name was Userkare, (pronounced ooh-ser-kah-rah) which means “The Soul of Re is powerful.” By all accounts, his reign definitely was not. The number of splinter cells that arose during this time significantly diminished centralized rule. In some ways, he could be looked at as a puppet pharaoh, selected to sit on the throne as destabilization settled. The culmination of the destabilization was at its peak when the invasion took place. The great histo -

Should we have another child?

Is it true that having a third child will raise our cost of living that much more? Certain factors have to be taken into consideration when deciding whether or not to have another child. For example, the arrival of a third child may require you to buy a bigger car or move to a bigger house. It will definitely mean extra costs for most outings, as family packages are generally designed for two adults and two children. On the other hand, you already have everything you need: bed, stroller, clothes, toys, etc. And best of all, you possess all the necessary parenting skills.

Parents of a third child aren’t scared

of little things like a few teething problems. Organized and resourceful, these parents thoroughly enjoy their youngest offspring and feel much more relaxed about the whole idea of parenting. While the oldest two are having fun together, Mom and Dad can take the time to look after the baby without feeling guilty.

And what about the pride the older kids feel when they help their parents by bringing a toy or picking up the pacifier that’s fallen on the floor? Families with three children learn to share and communicate with each other; they learn to split everything in three rather than down the middle. According to many experts, children from large families often grow up to be more generous and responsible as adults.

Still wondering whether or not you should have another child? Start by asking yourself about your habits and your lifestyle. Do you mind if your routine gets turned upside down again? Do you have enough time and energy to devote to a larger family? Can you afford a third child? If you answered yes to the above, then there’s no need to ask yourself any more questions.

When deciding whether or not to have another child, think about what it means in terms of lifestyle, time, energy, finances and family fun.

rian Manetho tells us his account via Dr. Charles Finch’s tremendous work Echoes of the Old Darkland. “Men of ignoble birth out of the eastern parts, had boldness enough to make expedition into our country, and with ease subdued it by force, yet without hazarding battle with them.” I make reference to some of the language used here. First and foremost, Manetho states very clearly that these “men” came from “eastern parts”.

While most historians tell us that the Hyksos came from Asia. Manetho himself does not. Now, whether or not they originated from Asia, this remains an area of confusion that requires greater exploration. Dr. Finch alleviates some of this when he continues to inform us that these “eastern parts” may be “Construed to Egypt’s eastern deserts, home to nomads and shepherds…” This is of immense consideration since the name Hyksos has a few definitions. The more popular, and widely known is the

following. The “Hyk” is Kemetian for the word “king” and the “sos” can either be translated as “shepherd” or “captive”. So literally, they were known as the “shepherd or captive kings”. Considering that these “eastern parts” are the deserts east of Egypt, this would place the Hyksos origination in nearby Asia. This means they would have come to Egypt/Kemet crossing via the peninsula settling in the eastern part of the Delta to “pasture their flocks” only “to be strengthened later by armed tribesmen.” This added reference came to us by way of “When Egypt Ruled the East,” by George Steindorff and Kieth C. Seele, a book that was mentioned by historians Dr. John Henrik Clarke and Runoko Rashidi.

For all intense purposes, we have only scratched the surface on this period. I look forward to recalling the invasion in detail and as well as their expulsion.

Family is a factor in academic success

Did you know that your home and family environment can affect your children’s academic performance in a major way? Studies demonstrate that encouraging exchanges and discussions during the family’s evening meal is one of the most effective ways to maximize the chances of academic success.

Children develop self-esteem when they grow up in a family where

others take the time to listen and be interested in what they do. At school, this feeling is reflected in an increased confidence in their ability to succeed. Not only does this confidence allow them to obtain better results, but it stimulates them to give the effort required to succeed, even when they’re having problems. As a parent, your role in this is crucial.

• Opt for a healthy lifestyle. A balanced diet, exercise and 8 to 12 hours of sleep every day can increase a child’s concentration and reduce stress.

• Encourage your children. Praise effort as well as success.

• Help your children become more independent. Supervise homework but don’t do it for them.

• Have fun as a family. Playing is a great way to combine fun and learning.

• Work with your child’s teacher. Go to meetings and don’t hesitate to contact the school if you have concerns.

Be there for your children and never give up on them. Teach them to have a positive attitude about their education, and, most importantly, commit to giving them support throughout their schooling.

I don’t think you should

drink that: Traces of lead found in Canadian water pipes

BRITTNEY CHANNER

brittney@carib101.com

Let’s talk about water! It plays such an important part in our world and contributes to a healthy lifestyle. As humans, 60% of our general makeup consist of water and can constitute as much as 93% of the body weight of a newborn infant. Living in a first world country allows us the privilege of being able to access water in many forms such as purchasing bottled water from the grocery store or from the taps within our household. However, when we think about the concept of water and our access to it, not much thought goes into the possibility of it being free from harmful chemicals and bacteria. We are able to partake together in drinking as much water as possible free from worry and anguish; or are we?

On November 3rd, it was determined that tap water coming out of Canada’s pipes may not be clean and clear. The water flowing was shown to find unsafe traces of lead which can possibility impact many people across the country. Led by a team of student journalists, local residents of communities and establishments from across Canada were asked to provide samples of their tap water for random testing. The focus of this inquiry all stems from a neurotoxin known as lead.

Lead is a naturally toxic metal that is found in the Earth’s crust which has resulted in environmental contamination and poses significant public health issues when exposed to humans. A well known crisis involving lead occurred in 2015 in Flint, Michigan with the water crisis that developed. 87 cases of Legionnaires disease were discovered which resulted in the deaths of 115 people and counting.

In Canada, the tests that were conducted showed an overwhelming amount of lead in the drinking water of many homes and businesses. As it pertains to Ontario, it was reported that nearly one third of all Ontario schools and daycares had at least one test result that displayed

5 parts per billion of lead (ppb) from April 2016 to March 2018. (Robinson, 2019) It was also determined that neighborhoods that posed a higher risk for lead concentration within water were older homes with pipes that had not been replaced for decades.

It is important to understand how lead can affect many parts of the body over time and how deadly it can be for children. In adults, when a person is exposed to very high levels of lead, a person may feel tired, experience memory loss, feel constipated and display pain or tingling in hands or feet. However, over a long period of time, lead exposure can turn into anemia, kidney and brain damage; even death. Nevertheless, lead affects children more quickly and severely than adults. Children may not have obvious symptoms compared to adults however; its exposure can produce delayed speech, behavioral problems, trouble concentrating and can dangerously affect the development of a child’s brain therefore creating long lasting effects on overall growth and development

As of now, it has been determined that the current state of Ontario’s drinking water still puts thousands of residents, children and pregnant women at risk for lead exposure and lead poisoning due to the traces of lead components in household plumbing. Advocates have pressured the province to intervene by introducing legislation to require a minimum of 75% of municipal lead service lines to be replaced within a 3-5 year time span. (Cribb, Keogh, Buckley, Mutis, & Cohen, 2019) While this seems like an easy fix, the financial costs associated with such a replacement may prove to be more difficult than it seems. Unfortunately, it is stated that many municipalities are decades away from being able to pay for such extensive work. So, how does one protect oneself and their family from excessive exposure from lead? Washing hands and child toys frequently can prevent contamination of dust and soil from outdoor play. Additionally, running cold water for a minute before cooking or making baby formula can assist in decreasing ones exposure to lead. Nevertheless, it is imperative that the province takes heed of the results produced from the study and create a solution to this slowly growing problem.

How to use metal ceiling tiles to make your home shine

Metallic accents are trending — are you looking for a new way to bring the look into your home? If so, metal ceiling tiles may be the way to go. Here are some ways to use them.

• On the ceiling. They’ll provide a charming, traditional look anywhere you place them. The kitchen is a great place to start, but entranceways, bathrooms and dining rooms are also ideal.

• On a wall. Create an accent wall in your living or dining room. Or, use them to create a unique backsplash in your kitchen.

• As an accent. If you love metal ceiling tiles, but prefer a more subtle look, use them sparingly. They look great alongside a kitchen island or against the base of a home bar (where the stools go).

Metal ceiling tiles can be used to bring either a vintage or modern touch to your home. And since they’re available in a range of sizes, colours and styles, you’re sure to find some that suit your taste.

Top brass: the metal interior designers are falling for

An alloy of copper and zinc, brass is once again at the forefront of home decorating trends. Today’s brass, however, is muted and offers a welcome respite from the flashier rose gold and copper that dominated the design world in years past.

Brass goes well with almost any colour, from sombre blues and burgundies to pale neutrals like cream and blush.

Increasingly, retailers are offering an assortment of brass items to their customers.

From cabinet hardware and faucets to floor lamps and chandeliers, there’s no shortage of options if you want to bring brass into your home. If you’re in the market for a new bedframe, consider one made of this metal.

To prevent your brass from looking dated, choose angular, modern pieces that are brushed to a dull sheen instead of the overpowering shine that was once popular. Keep your pieces looking new by regularly cleaning them with ketchup, tomato juice or a simple solution of lemon and salt.

Paint your white trim black to make a bold statement

Outside your home, painting the trim around your windows and doors black makes your house’s facade look stylish and modern. Why not bring the concept indoors and paint your mouldings and baseboards black? This daring idea will undoubtedly energize the room(s) where it’s applied.

WHY DO IT

Your black trim will contrast whatever colour is on the walls and lend the space a unique look. Ordinarily plain rooms become defined, audacious and more exciting.

Additionally, black trim is great for making points of interest pop. Whether it’s a stunning view, amazing wallpaper or high ceilings, black draws the eye to the things that you want people to notice.

Finally, unlike other bold colours, black will never go out of style. This means that even if dark trim is a dramatic choice, it won’t feel dated in a few years.

HOW TO DO IT

As with other types of painting jobs, pre -

paring the space will take longer than applying the colour. Since dark tones tend to highlight imperfections, taking your time to get things ready before starting is especially important.

Begin with carefully sanding, filling holes and repairing damaged trim. Then, using painter’s tape, carefully protect the walls and floors. Two or more coats of paint are needed to ensure even coverage.

5 benefits of using cork in your home

Cork is a stylish and sustainable material that can be used for a variety of home renovation projects. Here are five benefits that come from using it around your house.

1. It’s renewable. Made from the bark of cork oaks, this material is harvested without harming trees in any way. The trees, which can live up to 250 years, are continually growing new bark, which can be harvested once every nine years.

2. It’s sanitary. Cork is a great option for people who suffer from allergies. It’s naturally mould and mildew resistant and has anti-microbial properties.

3. It’s easy to maintain. The material is extremely water resistant, making it ideal for kitchen and bathroom applications. When used as flooring, it’s easy to clean.

Wear isn’t an issue, as it can be sanded and refinished.

4. It’s supple. Cork is full of microscopic air pockets that allow it to easily compress and expand without causing damage, making it a comfortable surface to stand or sit on.

5. It’s safe. Cork is fire-resistant. If it does catch fire, it generates less smoke and releases fewer toxins than other materials commonly found in homes.

The best part about cork is its versatility. It can be used in many different ways, from providing insulation and wall coverings to making furniture and flooring. If you’re ready to bring cork into your home, the options for doing so are almost endless.

Cranes in the sky… but make it tech-y

CHRISTINA GWIRA

christina@carib101.com

SPECIALIST

At the 2019 BFUTR Summit, I had the opportunity to interview Alexandra McCalla, co-founder of Airmatrix. Airmatrix is literally helping to build roads in the sky... for drones. Currently, drones are used on a more non-commercial basis in Canada. Some people use them for photography, videography or as a form of entertainment. Airmatrix is working hard to see the use of drones move into the sphere of providing support for emergency and medical services.The issue in Canada however is that of density and the lack of infrastructure that will allow drones to see their full capabilities realized in the Canadian sky.

Working closely together with NavCanada and Transport Canada, Airmatrix is looking to build the very highways and technology to guide and see drone usage grow within our country. At the present moment, no such thing is available in Canada, which is why Airmatrix needs to work alongside these two government organizations to see what possibilities can come when the private sector meets the government sector in this dance in the sky.

The concept came about in 2016, when Alex and her co-founders were studying at the University of Toronto. There was a hunger to see how drone technology could empower local businesses, however, there wasn’t a blueprint or the technology to see your local mom and pop shop deliver your bagels via drone. However, Airmatrix is working tirelessly to see this become a reality.

There are plans for the company to expand into the United States, the United Kingdom as well as Australia as these countries have some form of infrastructure and regulation in place at a more accessible level. In Canada, Airmatrix needs to work with the federal government to see their technology implemented, which isn’t necessarily the fastest route to see drone

technology implemented for the common man. Amazon has already started testing out the use of drones as a viable delivery mechanism and the UK is also open to seeing where the applications of drones could reach.

But it’s not all bad for drones, Canada and Airmatrix. There are plans to see a test flight in place that will transport a critical organ from one hospital to another. Could you imagine the possibilities? With their “millimeter-precise drone highways” that are built “on a multi-layered grid system” Airmatrix is actively, “helping high-density cities create a safe, scalable, and efficient transportation system”. The fact is that the drones are coming to our cities, our towns and our country, but are they ready for it? Airmatrix is working hard to make sure that we are.

Airmatrix’s technology aims to impact three main demographics: us as everyday users; local governments as well as businesses. For us as the common person, being able to have easier access to emergency services is a wonderful benefit. When more businesses and governments start moving their delivery needs to the air, this will mean less congestion and air pollution for us to suffer through.

From the local government standpoint, there is possibility to monetize airspace. Being able to levy a toll on businesses and other government agencies to pass through airspace provides another income stream that can help assist the revenues of the cities and towns that we live in.

Lastly, as business owners, being able to provide delivery services that are, “fast, efficient [and] optimized 3D routes” gives you more than a leg up over the competition. The milimeter drone tracking that Airmatrix provides through their intuitive user interface and platform can also provide businesses with the peace of mind that is needed to ensure that their investment in drone technology is secured.

In short, Alex and her team are on the cusp of bringing drones into our reality. It will no longer be a thing of “Black Mirror” and “The Jetsons”. The fact that Airmatrix is also co-founded by a black woman is also a very big win for our community. I’m looking forward to seeing more tech, “Cranes in the Sky”, with the help of Airmatrix, are you?

HOW TO PLAY :

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.

Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column, or 3x3 box.

or sis

To the back, matey 51. Aquatic animal 56. No ____, ands, or buts 57. Ill-humor

Mindful 59. Bambi’s mom

Here and ____

____ down (softened)

1. Resort, of a sort 2. High tennis shot 3. Wing of a building 4. ____ out (barely make) 5. Fortuneteller’s card 6. Protection

Hubbub

Fasten again

Grimm monster

Rain hard

Male turkeys

Speakers’ con-

Meet Arvin

Papas

Give forth

Type of street

Delicatessen item

Be in debt

Hog fat

Track

Low

Browning’s before

Primary color

ARIES

Money is an important part of life and you’ll finally be able to invest some of it in your future. You may also start a personal project you’ll continue in retirement.

TAURUS

Life is never calm with young children around, especially when they invite their friends over. Happily, the chaos won’t stop you from spoiling and loving them. You’ll benefit from a nice raise this week.

GEMINI

Reflection is necessary before turning thoughts into action. If you’re wondering about your professional future, you’ll have some inspiration that could lead you to an exciting career. Friends will invite you to join them for some fun activities.

CANCER

After a period of great stress, it’s important to take some time to re cover and rest. You’ll appreciate activities that are on the quiet side this week. Someone close to you will need your help to get through a chaotic time in their life.

LEO

Your network will expand this week and you may make some new friends, even in a professional context. If you’re single, love at first sight could be waiting at the next happy hour gathering.

VIRGO

You may start to think about living abroad for a period. At work, you’ll be in contact with people from all over the world, which will be very beneficial. In your love life, a getaway will reignite your passion.

LIBRA

If your partner is of a different culture, you both may need to make certain adjustments; avoid making rash decisions. A more balanced approach to household chores will be appreciated.

SCORPIO

You’ll feel your emotions with a new intensity, which will reveal the artist within you. You have a finely developed attention to detail and the audacity to do things differently.

SAGITTARIUS

At work, you’ll need to finetune the details of a negotiation before closing the deal. In your love life, don’t worry, your soulmate is planning a spectacular marriage proposal.

CAPRICORN

Your selfesteem will grow, allowing you to reach for more prestigious positions at work. Some effort will be necessary to maintain an active social life. You’ll be tasked with putting an event together for friends.

AQUARIUS

You’ll win a popularity contest this week in one way or another. People will gather around you and hang on to your every word, even if it’s silly. At home, a deep clean is necessary before company comes over.

PISCES

You’ll be on the move this week, either for work or for your health or that of a loved one. Be prepared to debate certain points. Your arguments need to be fair and precise for your opinion to be heard.

This seven month old Angel was rushed to Hospital after he began to have trouble breathing. It was discovered that he su ered from a condition where very little blood was owing to the lungs and there was not enough oxygenated blood circulating through his little body. Due to extremely low oxygen levels he was rushed into the operating room for emergency surgery where a shunt was placed to increase blood ow to his lungs. This saved his life. Due to his small size however, this temporary treatment would only allow him to survivelong enough to undergo future surgeries. After a few days, he was able to breathe on his own and drank his rst bottle of milk one week after surgery. In the next few years, Arvin will need one or two more surgeries before he is completely cured.

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Real Estate bubble brings double trouble

A real estate bubble is when property prices climb rapidly to an unsustainable level and then crash. According to The Toronto Real Estate Board, last month’s sales jumped by 22% compared to the same time last year. This year’s price climbed up by 6%. The period leading up to the crash is known as froth. The question is, are we in one?

Froth is an aggregation of tiny bubbles. There is evidence of froth in the GTA. Most homeowners are renovating and living in their homes longer. As such, there are fewer homes for sale and two thirds of the homes are sold above the original asking

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price. The average income cannot keep pace with price growth. Is this trend sustainable?

Bubbles can burst only if there is an increase in supply. Supply can increase when there are more properties being built or if there is an interest rate hike or government intervention. Toronto is known as the crane capital of Canada with new condos always sprouting. Most will be ready for occupancy within a few years. Interest rate is at an all-time low. Our economy is strong, but we are not immune from global financial catastrophe.

In 1989, interest rates shot up. Prices plummeted and speculators who were in for a quick profit went bankrupt. In 2007, there was a similar situation in the United States. Prior to both crashes, house prices climbed steeply and then deteriorated quickly. In 2017, the hot real estate market in the GTA created a bubble which was deflated via government intervention.

Sometimes, the best economist cannot predict when a bubble will burst. The best way is to protect oneself from a financial meltdown. Although homes increase in

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value, it is better to pay down one’s remaining mortgage. Line of credits should be used for investment purposes. Never max out on the credit limit; use only half and keep the other half for emergencies.

Building a basement apartment with money borrowed from the line of credit, for example, is money well spent. Trends are changing and with high housing costs, homes with basement apartments are selling for more. An average basement apartment may cost about $60,000 to build and can fetch almost $20,000 rental income per year. That’s an impressive rate of return and if the market collapses, rental demands will be higher. Avoid the temptation of buying preconstruction properties and hoping to flip them before closing for a profit because a shift in the market can cause ruin.

Real estate is long term and homeowners should use some of the equity in their home to buy investment properties. The best investment properties are homes on large lots in mature neighborhoods. The suburbs are still affordable and with time, land becomes gold.

There will always be froth in the GTA and first-time buyers should buy what they can afford, stepping away from paying rent. It is best to invest in an RRSP and save some tax dollars. An RRSP can be used towards a down payment.

We should ask ourselves what our housing needs will be like in 10 years before we decide to move and adjust our plan accordingly. Five years ago, a family upgraded from a smaller home into their current home, catering for their adult children. The children moved on and the family are now downsizing. Big homes require more cleaning, more utilities and higher taxes, and in a recession, drop much more in value than smaller ones. If there is a bubble and we are not prepared for it, we can land into major financial trouble. However, waiting for the bubble to burst can prevent us from building wealth. I saw a poster of an old man and the caption read “This is the young man who is still waiting for real estate prices to come down”. No one knows if the bubble will burst but let’s be cautious. Borrow to invest and pay cash for luxuries.

Using your home as your retirement supplement - Part 2

home, however this works almost similar to a reverse mortgage, in the end there is a loan to be repaid. The loan builds interest and if the property loses value, there would be great losses. Over time, the value of the loan could grow equal to the value of the home and if it surpasses it, the bank could call the loan.

Last issue we talked about using your home as a source of income by applying the principle of a reverse mortgage. This will work well for many who do not need to bequeath their home to beneficiaries but it does not look like such an attractive deal for those on the opposite end of the spectrum, especially if this is a family home. This places the retiree in a predicament where there is value in the home but it cannot be accessed.

So, if you have a home and you are heading into retirement what other choices do you have? Well one of the things you could do if take a line of credit against the

Hello and welcome to Insurance Matters, where I talk about pros, cons and tips on various forms of insurance products and industry happenings. Today I want to talk about “return of premium” a powerful little rider that can add an extra layer of peace of mind and put money back in your pocket.

So what is return of premium and how can it help you?

First thing I like about this feature is that it’s pretty straightforward to understand just by its name. A return-of-premium rider on a critical illness policy pay’s back the insured’s premium if he or she does not make a critical illness claim within a prescribed length of time of that policy. For example for a 36 year old male who purchased a normal $100,000 Term 75 CI policy would pay $81.36 monthly. If he added the ROP feature it would cost an extra $22.41 a month and at age 75 if he never made a claim he

There is an option that can be reached but with careful planning. It requires reaching out for the help of a financial advisor. The strategy is that you can apply for a reverse mortgage but you have to model what the interest amount will build up to. The interest build up will be weighed against the possible gains from the property and there is likely a net effect. This means that the growth in the property should compensate for the interest build up. Still all the same the property has to be liquidated at the time of death so that the loan can be repaid.

Your option in this case after calculating how much you are likely to owe the bank, is to purchase a permanent life insurance policy which is guaranteed to

would get back $35,973. Not a bad forced savings coverage plan.

Is return-of-premium right for you?

Price wise a return-of-premium policy will be more expensive than one without. Assuming your need is being met and you have the ability to pay for the rider, I would recommend take advantage of the rider. If you do the math (your broker can for you), what the rider will return to you financially can be an amazing rate of return on your money for what the rider cost. But be careful just because the name is easy to understand how each insurance company chooses to use it can vary.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of return-of-premium?

I advise my clients all the time that a CI policy is one policy you’ll be happy if you never have to use it, because that would mean you lived a long and healthy life. If you do need to use it, you’ll be thankful for the extra money to help you get better. The advantage of the rider is if you do not end up making a critical illness claim, you get fully reimbursed for all the premiums you’ve paid during the lifetime of the insurance contract. Now I know we all wish our car insurance policies could do the same.

pay upon death, thereby offsetting the loan balance at the bank. The bank will now hold your policy as well for security. When you die, they will receive their payment first. In this way, you can use the value in your home and your beneficiaries will receive the property with the loan already paid off by your insurance coverage. The insurance policy however is something that you have to qualify for and getting it is subject to passing a medical.

Another method you can use, depending on the size and state of repair of your house is to rent it out while you rent a smaller or a downsized apartment. The rent received from the rental property will pay the taxes and insurance and any excess will now pay for your rented apartment. This way you can keep the house for your beneficiaries and still have a place in which to live. You may need to seek out a real estate person to assist you with finding you a reliable renter. All the same, consult your financial advisor on what your best options are.

The obvious disadvantage is the rider can be costly. Having coverage should never be sacrificed over wanting a money back guarantee. So always make sure you stay within your budget and secure the coverage first. The other smaller disadvantage is you only get back what you paid with no interest. For some this could be looked at as lost earning potential and for others it could be chalked up to it being the cost for peace of mind.

The smaller brother to ROP is ROP on death. Instead, this rider provides the benefit that if you pass away before making a claim against the policy the insurance company will pay all premiums to your named beneficiaries.

You may be strong and healthy, and you may think that you can beat any critical illness that comes your way. And you may be right. But on average, people are living longer. In fact, illnesses that would have ended in death just a few years ago are now being treated and even cured. That’s great news but it also means that the chance of being diagnosed with a critical illness, and surviving it, is greater, too. In fact, living through the treatment process and surviving a critical illness can cause financial hardships for many people. Just something to think about...

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West Indies to play a T20 warm up match.

However, some sources say that USA pulled out so that they could have a three-week squad training camp in Los Angeles.

Johnny Grave, the Cricket West Indies chief executive wants cricket to grow in North America.

“Hopefully West Indies and USA can have a really good positive partnership to support each other and to build cricket in this time zone in the Americas and grow the game because that’s what we need,” Grave told ESPNcricinfo in a recent inter-

“What USA Cricket needs is certainty, that we are coming. Then we can focus on how this becomes a real celebration of cricket, how we can promote the sport, get grassroots programs in and around it, how we can play USA or the opposition can play USA as warm-ups is definitely something that we are very open to. We’ve all said that we want to grow the game. Well, the North American market is somewhere we have to grow cricket if we want to become a truly global sport.”

Over the next few years, Cricket West Indies is open to expanding fixture arrangements with a focus on West Indies T20I matches played in Florida over the next few years. Before West Indies heads to India for their series in August 2020, a tentative agreement is in place for USA and

Grave said that practice matches between touring teams and the USA could definitely be a starting point for things to move forward.

“I think we’re open-minded. There’s always an opportunity to play behind closed doors, not open it up to the public, to not have full status. But we’d be really open to saying, ‘Well no, the international status is there. Let’s play a fullyfledged international.

“There’s so much cost in bringing in all the TV production kits. In terms of setup costs that actually to add on another game when everything is already set up isn’t insurmountable, in which case that’s

something we’d definitely want to discuss with USA Cricket.”

In August 2020, West Indies will play two T20Is against South Africa; Grave said that he expects the ticket prices to be much more affordable.

“We saw it in the World Cup that the Indian fans and subcontinent fans are the most passionate fans in the world and are desperate to see their stars when they come over on their doorstep,” Grave said. “The tickets get snapped up so quickly online and it’s difficult to hold them back necessarily for other fans. South Africa will definitely be a more affordable price point. Hopefully even Americans who have heard about these games will come and watch the cricket and see what it’s all about.”

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