Digital Chaos

CHEF MEGAN ROBERTS AKA MEGZ

“I am going to be the Oprah of Culinary.”

The culinary world is a place where talented female chefs can be overlooked, but women are finding themselves in higher positions in the workplace day by day, and as a society, we are seeing a shift in powerful positions. From working as sous chefs, to food bloggers, to teaching cooking classes, African Caribbean women are finding their place in this industry, and exemplifying boldness, ingenuity, and creativity. It is one of the reasons why I thought it necessary to celebrate a young, talented woman who is creating a stir in the Toronto culinary industry.

At 33 years old Chef Megan Roberts has proven herself in the culinary world. She has worked with tenacity and perseverance to thrive and exert influence within a male dominated industry and has applied her unique creativity and style to the art of cooking. She has a wonderfully enthusiastic and confident attitude, loves to experiment with food, accepts her mistakes, and puts passion ahead of perfection.

I asked her when a good day would be to sit down and chat, and she told me Mondays are her day. She has actually coined them Megan Monday’s which I think is ingenious. So here I was at 6:30 am speaking with this truly talented soul…

“My life began in Scarborough at Scarborough Centenary Hospital, but I grew up in Ajax my entire life,” Megan began.

“My dad has been working with TTC my entire life, so I have to admit I grew up fortunate. I lived in a house all my life, and I didn’t want for anything. We would take family road trips all the time, travel to Jamaica; life was pretty fun. I really have no complaints. I was that chatty kid in class, so I talked a lot. It’s funny, because that translated into me getting into communications later on in my life.”

Megan shares that her mom used to always say, “Megan is so smart, she just doesn’t apply herself.”

“I think about it now, and I really believe that I had ADHD. In the African-Caribbean community these issues are not talked about. Nothing really kept my interest for too long. I was good at a lot of things, but my parents would say, ‘Pick something you like, and stick with it.’ This was pretty hard for me.”

In high school, she realized that she loved music, so she decided to go into the world of the arts. When she looked at the money situation, she realized that life as an artist would be challenging.

“I was like, hmmmm; could I go through a period of not having anything after growing up the way I did? Nah! I knew that I would have to figure out something else.

When I learned about slavery in grade six, it changed my life. I knew I wanted to help my community, but I wasn’t sure how I

was going to do this. I decided on Community and Justice Services at Centennial College, but once I learned that I would have to handcuff people, and I was like nope. I knew that I would be interacting with my community, but not in a positive way. This was not the road for me.

I then went into Community Development, but that wasn’t interesting for me either. I did retail after that, and then I started working at a restaurant. At around 18, 19 years old I started working at PAPS, and I was like, ‘I like this restaurant life.’ I started as a hostess, and then they moved me into the kitchen as an expeditor. I was the communicator between the kitchen and the front of the restaurant, and I worked very closely with the chef.”

Even though she was really enjoying her time at PAPS, the restaurant closed down, so she began her time at Cosmoprofs, a beauty supply store for professionals.

“It was completely different, but still in the arts. I was still trying to figure out what to do. I still wasn’t sure about what I wanted to do. My manager there was a Black woman, and she helped me a lot. She would ask me what I was interested in, and why I was interested in it. For a young woman, this was helpful, because I was still trying to figure it all out.

One day I was scrolling on Instagram, and this was how I was first introduced to Kwasi Douglas. He used to make $5.00 food on Instagram. I was like, ‘He is Black, let me support the brother.’ I started to hang out with him, and one day Kwasi decided to audition for Master Chef Canada, and he finished Top 12 in Canada. He decided to open up a restaurant in Ajax, and I became his Sous Chef. When I started working with him in the kitchen, Kwasi noticed something about me. One day he said, ‘Have you ever thought about cooking for a living.’ No, I hadn’t.”

Megan was about 26 and life had become turbulent. Like most young women, she was figuring out life, dealing with the stresses (family, friends, relationships), and wondering what her next move was going to be.

“I was like, ‘Oh God, I really have to figure out what to do.’ Kwasi closed his restaurant and started working at a restaurant downtown. He asked me to join him in the kitchen; this is when I started to really get into the world of cuisine arts. I was actually having fun doing this.

I went through all the highs and lows of working in the kitchen. When Kwasi got sick, I had to take the lead role in the kitchen. It began to take on a lot of my life; here I was now kitchen manager. When I asked to be paid more, the managers didn’t want to do that, so I decided to go to culinary school. I left the restaurant and started culi nary school at the age of 30.”

Megan will be the first to tell you that Centennial College has the best culinary program in Canada. Her experience working in a restaurant translated into her doing very well at school.

“My teachers saw my talent and encouraged me. This is the part of my life that I really enjoyed. I remember this one teacher Stephen Fields telling me, ‘Just because you are in culinary school, doesn’t mean you have to be a chef.’ This stuck with me and would resurface a few years later.” She graduated with a 4.0. Naturally Megan was proud of herself. She had experienced such a difficult time with school, and here she was now an ambassador for her program. She began to delve in African cuisine, and in February 2020, she met a woman named Nyoka, a driven woman, who began to show Megan that there was so much more to this culinary world.

“I remember going to an event called “The Food Ball.” It had 10 to 12 different chefs, and we noticed that there were no people of colour at the event. We thought to ourselves, why don’t we do a Black History event at school that mimics The Food Ball. We pitched the staff on hosting a dinner and wanted to make it inclusive. I put work into this. I was out here pitching ideas, marketing the event, and people were receptive. The event was supposed to be in February, but there were some technical issues, and it didn’t work out. We pushed it to March, but you know it; the pandemic happened and then the world shut down.

I had to finish culinary school online, and I was really disappointed about this. The service industry was suffering, and I decided to go to school for Food Media. I started a podcast called “Black of the House.” I had to build a business plan, and I began to develop this idea. I was learning everything to do with food media. This excited me even more.”

Where has her life led her? Well, Megan now works with one of her teachers who took on an Executive Chef role at Magna Golf Course. She loves life, doing what she wants, and living by her terms. Keep an eye out for this young lady, you will be seeing more of her very soon.

Doublespeak... What is doublespeak?

According to William Lutz (an American linguist who specializes in the use of plain language) doublespeak is language that pretends to communicate but really doesn’t. It is language that makes: the bad seem good, the negative appear positive, the unpleasant appear attractive, or at least tolerable.

Doublespeak is language that avoids or shifts responsibility and conceals or prevents thought rather than extending thought. Doublespeak is not a matter of subjects and verbs agreeing; it is a matter of words and facts agreeing. There is incongruity between what is said or left unsaid, and what really is.

So why the lesson on doublespeak? Well, over the last two to three years, we have been subjected to doublespeak from the very people we elected into power. Many of us have gotten so used to it, our ears have become numb, our eyes blinded that we are unable to decipher what is real, from what is fake.

Let’s talk about the latest doublespeak that has failed to make breaking news here in Canada.

As it so happened on January 11th, of this year, Justin Trudeau’s Liberal Government announced an eye-watering $1.2 billion dollars towards “Research” that will undermine our fundamental rights and freedoms as Canadians.

The Canadian Heritage Minister, Pablo Rodriguez, along with the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities, Dominic LeBlanc, announced that Canadians will be spending this massive sum on 16 individual research projects, all designed to silence Canadians concerned with the dominant corrupt ideologies plaguing our culture.

According to the Canadian government website, the 16 funded projects will evaluate the efficacy of efforts by platforms to counter disinformation and other online harms, understand the role of non-news and alternative media sources of disinformation, or identify the behavioral and psychological underpinnings of the spread of disinformation and other harmful content in the Canadian context.

All the projects mentioned will develop “research” that discovers “evidence” for how “misinformation” is hurting Canadian society and communities.

Definitions of what would constitute “misinformation,” “hateful,” “rac-

without interference?

ist,” or “extreme” included in any of the project descriptions are not clear, but the most alarming unspecified term is “nonmedia sources,” which are the sole target of these research projects.

Now, this is where the doublespeak comes in. I visited a Government of Canada web page titled “Freedom of expression and media freedom,” and on this web page it states that Canada believes freedom of expression is at the core of human individuality and is one of the essential foundations of a safe and prosperous society.

It declares the right of everyone to hold opinions without interference and the right to freedom of expression (Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights) and reaffirmed in Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. This includes the freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, whether orally, in writing or in print, or through any other media of choice. Certain restrictions are only permissible when in line with international human rights law.

The page goes on to state that Canada strongly believes that media freedom remains an important part of democratic societies and essential to the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms. People need free media to provide them with accurate in-

formation and informed analysis to hold governments to account.

I am a little confused, and to be honest, I am unsure of what to believe or think. As a Canadian citizen, do I have the freedom to hold my own opinion without interference? Am I truly able to see, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds? This is when it becomes our responsibility to call out the government, tell them pointblank to clarify the multiple messages that are being transmitted. As members of the free press, are we able to share information that is not harming others, only questioning what is being parroted to us by their paid media?

In conclusion…

How can you spot doublespeak? Most of the time you will recognize doublespeak when you see or hear it, but, if you have any doubts, you can identify doublespeak just by answering these questions:

Who is saying what

to whom?

Under what conditions and circumstances?

With what intent, and with what results?

Answering these questions will help you identify doublespeak language that appears to be legitimate, especially when it comes from our elected officials.

As a Canadian citizen, do we have the freedom to hold our own opinion

MARCH IS FOR FAMILIES WITH PERFORMING ARTS BRAMPTON

SPLASH’N BOOTS

MARCH 15, 2023 2:00 PM

Just off the heels of their 14th album “I Am Love,” second JUNO Award, and hit TV show that has appeared daily in over 8.5 million homes across Canada, Splash N’ Boots continue to bring their 20-year legacy in children’s music to new generations. Don’t miss them as they hit The Rose Brampton stage during March Break!

THE UGLY DUCKLING

LIGHTWIRE THEATRE

MARCH 23, 2023 6:30 PM

Lightwire brings a classic tale to life in an unforgettable theatrical experience. With dazzling visuals, poignant choreography, and the creative use of music, this production brings the story of the Ugly Duckling into a new and brilliant light. This is a magical evening the whole family will enjoy!

BOOK TICKETS

THEROSEBRAMPTON.CA

1 THEATRE LN, BRAMPTON, ON L6V 0A3 BOX OFFICE 905 874 2800

Moving Legacies:

Celebrating Black Innovation and Resistance in Ontario

tures Month from 2015 - 2017 within the Greater Toronto Area focusing on events and art exhibits. He founded the Canadian chapter for the Black Speculative Arts Movement (BSAM Canada) in 2016. Quentin’s passion is artivism in which he utilizes art as a tool for social change.

The celebration of Black History Month 2023 by the Toronto Transit Commission was truly an unforgettable experience for those who witnessed the project: Moving Legacies: Celebrating Black Innovation and Resistance in Ontario. On Saturday, February 25th, there was a bus tour that highlighted stops where art works and installations were present. Details about the project can be seen on their website: www.TTC.ca/BHM. The project resulted from a partnership between the TTC and Astrosankofa Arts Initiatives spearheaded by Quentin VerCetty.

Quentin is an award-winning multidisciplinary storyteller, educator, and Afroturist. He describes himself as a: visual griot, artpreneur, educator, artivist, ever-growing interstellar tree. He is the first-ever visual artist commissioned by Carnegie Hall to create a signature work of art to represent one of the Hall’s festivals.

Quentin graduated from OCAD University, previously known as Ontario College of Art and Design. His work reflects a speculative narrative with a strong Afrofuturism motif to address issues of representation, immigration, decolonization and the absence of PDAA (Public display of Appreciation for Africa). He told Carnegie Hall that Afrofuturism is, “A Pan-African frequency that’s a time-bending collage of legacies, an arts movement, and a creative practice. It is about thinking creatively about the collective healing of all living things through an Afro-centred lens and represents the continuation of life in a fantastic holistic way.”

Quentin’s work has been featured in countries all over the world including Mexico, Haiti, Peru, Australia, United Arab Empire, and Germany. As an educator working in the Greater Toronto Area, he co-organized and cocurated the programming for Black Fu-

The Moving Legacies project showcased the unique works of several individuals: Adeyemi “Ying” Yem Adegbesan, Autumn Beals, Kanisha Dabreo, Danilo “Deluxo” McCallum, Meighan Morson, Komi Olaf, Quentin VerCetty and Troydell Wallace. These individuals have played very important roles in diverse areas of Ontario such as: politics, education, infrastructure and industry, and thus reflect the richness and diversity of the province.

VerCetty coined the term “AstroSankofa” which is included in AstroSankofa Arts Initiatives. He told Carnegie Hall that he conceived this word to describe the function of his art. “It comes from the West African Ghanian word sankofa which describes how one learns from the past, present and future, or connects with it.” He builds on his Afrofuturism motif to relate it to Sankofanology. He notes, “The intentionality of representation in Afrofuturism allows for timeless deep connections on many levels to many different people. This is important, as this has been the practice of African people that dates to the Nok of Nigeria and the people of Kin.”

Quentin is one of the leading Afroturist a/r/tographers in the world and has also coined the term “Rastafuturism” to extend the creative conception of Black representation. He created Canada’s first art book on Afrofuturism, “Cosmic Underground Northside” in 2020.

I spoke with Quentin on Wednesday, February 22nd, about the TTC project. He expressed excitement about the educational, inspirational and motivational artwork as part of the campaign by AstroSankofa. “They bring art to life.”

On Saturday, February 25th, a customized bus tour occurred between 1:00 pm - 4:30 pm where community partners celebrated the outstanding contributions of Black Canadians.

Anyone interested in learning about Moving Legacies can visit www. TTC.ca/BHM

Could Digital ID’s be the reason Trudeau’s government deleted COVID-19 injection data from their website?

After such a vigorous campaign to inject all Canadians with a trial injection, separating them by injection status (aka injection passports), travel refusals, and calling them racist and misogynist, Justin Trudeau’s government is now scrubbing the internet of its COVID information data.

Many questions come to mind, but the main one is why now?

This information was on their website in detailed form, which consisted of age group, amount of dose taken, and time of injection uptake. Could it be that Canadians have begun to wake up about the damage and deaths caused by these experimental poi-

son shots, and as a result have started refusing them? Or could COVID have been the spare tire used to take Canadians up the hill of a Digital ID system?

Let’s try and analyse this situation and not fall prey to whatever the culprits have planned for us.

On January 10th, 2023, the cumulative percentage of people who received a COVID shot in Canada was deleted. Just before this data was deleted, the first booster uptake in Canada was reported at 50.7%. The second booster uptake was reported at 23.4%.

Note that not only is there a reduction in people showing up for this poison shot, but a drastic reduction. Less than half of the people fell for the game this time around, and this could just be the reason that the organizers decided to change tactics or even change the line-up of the game completely.

On February 3rd, 2023, more items were deleted from the federal government website, again the question remains why and why now? Could it be that Trudeau’s government is fully aware of the death and damage done by these so-called vaccines, but wants to keep most Canadians in the

dark?

Could it be that this Liberal government is getting ready to categorize Canadians into groups, like compliant and noncompliant?

Judging from this government’s previous track record one can almost be sure that if the masses allow them to roll out Digital ID it will most definitely be tied to their famous so-called vaccines. It is extremely important for Canadians not to forget the way those who were not injected were treated just over a year ago. If you were not injected, you were in the rejected category.

Under a Digital ID system, this same treatment will be reserved for your brothers and sisters who don’t comply, only this time it will include jail time and God knows what else. So, as Canadians, we need to look before we leap.

On February 3rd, 2023, Manitoba Premier Scott Moe responded to a request from the Trudeau government to trade its citizen’s medical data with the federal government, but he refused. Here are the quotes from his letter.

“The government of Saskatchewan is not creating a Digital ID, nor will we accept

any requirements for the creation of a Digital ID tied to health care funding.”

“The government of Saskatchewan will not share any personal medical information with the federal government. This information is protected under the Health Information Protection Act and will remain so.”

“The government of Saskatchewan may share already publicly available health care statistics, including the number of physicians in Saskatchewan and surgical wait times if requested by any party, including the federal government.”

“The government of Saskatchewan will not surrender nor weaken any health privacy rights when signing a new Canada Health Transfer instead. We will work diligently towards a funding agreement that benefits Saskatchewan people by investing in health care in both rural and urban areas of our province.”

It could be a prudent move for all provinces in this country to adopt Moe’s policy toward any Digital ID system. This move might just avoid Canadians who are seen as enemies of the new narrative from ending up in a concentration camp.

Canada’s Total Mom Business Pitch and Awards Program

SIMONE SMITH

simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

You wake up to a baby’s cry, Your toddler is snuggled up beside you; he/she was not feeling well, so halfway through the night they joined you without you even knowing it.

You struggle to get out of bed, but you know you have to figure out the day, a sick toddler, an upset baby. Sigh! As you begin to sort your world out, you look on your bedroom side table, and see a stack of books, and your journal. There was the idea to start your business, but with so much going on, you haven’t had the time.

You know that this will not be

Being an entrepreneur and a parent is a whole other lifestyle, one that should not be trifled with some would say. There is a constant pull of wanting to spend time with your family versus the pull of wanting to run a business that you are proud of. There are so many parent-preneurs who have had to weigh the value of a new business call against their child’s basketball game. Inside you’re like, “Please understand,” but you know the reality; something is going to suffer.

I have some amazing news for the mom-preneurs; maybe it doesn’t have to be all or nothing: you can choose to grow your business a bit slower and take more time out of the office, and I have just the opportunity for that.

Canada’s Total Mom Pitch is an award-winning entrepreneurship, business pitch and awards program produced by Total Mom Inc. They aim to support women in starting and growing profitable and sustainable businesses. Total Mom Inc. is a professional community network that helps ambitious women entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses while juggling motherhood. Established in 2017, Founder & CEO

Anna Sinclair started Total Mom Inc. after discovering a need for more valuable support offered to busy moms like her.

Canada’s Total Mom Pitch empowers real women with an ambitious vision to overcome the barriers they face as modern moms in today’s unpredictable economy. The grant and awards program helps Canadian women who are growing their businesses and raising families to access: entrepreneurship support, new opportunities and funding as well as: education, mentorship and community support.

The award-winning initiative has officially launched across the country and is accepting applications to its entrepreneurship program. The program helps applicants see potential gaps in their startup businesses, giving them an advantage in their business journeys. The program, which pivoted virtually at the beginning of the pandemic, has expanded, and has supported over 6,000 applicants to date.

With the help of: The Scotiabank Women Initiative, Visa, American Express, UPS, VistaPrint, GoDaddy, Export Development Canada (EDC), and the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) Total

Mom has garnered the ability to help busy moms access untapped: education, connections and funding.

This year, Total Mom is proud to announce a new two-year partnership with Bell to share the voices and stories of entrepreneurial mothers across the country.

“Total Mom Inc. exists because it’s simply unrealistic to expect women to have to choose between their career and raising a family,” said Anna Sinclair, CEO of Total Mom Inc. “We are dedicated to building an organization that supports working women, and we plan to grow our programs and events and Total Mom Pitch is an exciting program that fuels our dedication to women.”

Canadian moms can submit the vision for their business online via totalmompitch.ca until March 20th, 2023. Applicants will move through the voting process, where the top 100 small businesses will get put through a business accelerator program and get the opportunity for national media recognition and visibility. See; not all is lost. Go ahead, pitch that idea, and turn that dream into a reality.

Over two trillion dollars in business assets have become vulnerable due to the mass exodus of small businesses in Canada

across all sectors.

7% of Canadian small and medium businesses have begun to develop exit strategies from their business within the next ten years. According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), over two trillion dollars in business assets have become vulnerable due to the mass exodus of small businesses in Canada.

Most of these entrepreneurs mention retirement (75%) as their main reason to exit their business. 22% wish to leave due to the stresses of business, while another 22% wish to take a step back from running and investing in their firms. 9% wish to transition their business to a different industry or busi-

ness model. Banking institutions and lawyer firms are busy assisting millions of business owners across North America and the Caribbean to plan business successions, or businesses ultimate closure or sale. Finding an appropriate successor or buyer is difficult indeed. Over 43% of entrepreneurs find it challenging to measure the value of their business while 39% feel their enterprises are far too dependent upon their owners for daily operations.

The government of Canada passed Bill C-208 in 2021, allowing SME to sell their business shares to family, taking the exemption of lifetime capital gains of the sale.

Many enterprising businesspeople would prefer to start up an enterprise instead of buying into an existing one. They can personalize their business and not walk into existing problems. CFIB has found that 49% of those who wish to leave their present establishment, wish to start a new business entirely.

50% of business owners make less revenue today than they did in 2021, with 64% still struggling with post pandemic debt, and 77% continue to be pandemic anxious. Business has become a pressure cooker with fears the economy can stumble into a recession at any time.

Turning a dream into a reality;

“I believe that there will be another crisis. It will be more significant. It will be faster than what we’ve seen with COVID. The impact will be greater, and as a result the economic and social implications will be even more significant.”

It is always so interesting what mainstream media views as important to report. As a media source, we began to warn about the 2020 pandemic in 2019, and our warnings were mostly ignored. As a responsible media outlet, we shared what was coming down the pipeline once we had heard what was in store. This week, we are going to share another exercise that has been implemented by the World Economic Forum, one that would devastate world economies, and one that was quietly done, just as planning for the pandemic was done before.

This tabletop exercise was conducted on October 18th, 2019. I want you to pay close attention to this because the writing has always been on the wall. Event 201 simulated an outbreak of a novel zoonotic coronavirus transmitted from bats to pigs to people that eventually becomes efficiently transmissible from person to person, leading to a severe pandemic.

The disease started in pig farms in Brazil (markets in Wuhan), quietly and slowly at first, but then it started to spread more rapidly in healthcare settings. When it started to spread efficiently from person to person in the low-income, densely packed neighborhoods of some of the megacities in South America, the epidemic exploded. It is first exported by air travel to Portugal, the United States, and China and then to many other countries. Although at first some countries were able to control it, it continued to spread and be reintroduced, and eventually no country could maintain control.

There was no possibility of a vac-

cine being available in the first year. There was a fictional antiviral drug that could help the sick, but not significantly limit spread of the disease.

Since the whole human population was susceptible, during the initial months of the pandemic, the cumulative number of cases increased exponentially, doubling every week. As the cases and deaths accumulate, the economic and societal consequences become increasingly severe.

The scenario ends at the 18-month point, with 65 million deaths. The pandemic slowed due to the decreasing number of susceptible people. The pandemic continued at some rate until there was an effective vaccine or until 80-90 % of the global population had been exposed. From that point on, it was likely to be an endemic childhood disease.

Hmmmm! I want people to stop here for a moment and read that section again before I move on. How were these world leaders so able to distinctly predict exactly what we went through during the pandemic, and still not be prepared. They knew what was going to happen, yet our governments acted so surprised by it.

Hmmmm! Now, I am going to report on something that was discussed in July of 2021, and the only reason that I am bringing this to everyone’s attention is because the first time they warned us about something, THE WORLD DID NOT LISTEN! If you read the above exercise, it played out exactly as the predicted (no coincidence there), yet when we initially reported on it, we were discredited, censored, called conspiracy theorists, and basically ignored.

Let’s try this again, community. They are forcing this idea of a digital life on us: digital id’s, cashless societies, smart cities, electric vehicles, all the while they have begun to prepare for what they call a “Cyber Pandemic.”

What would you do if you couldn’t access your bank accounts, the internet, or your cell phone suddenly stopped working? These are the kinds of things people really do need to think through because one day we may be facing a crisis like that.

The World Economic Forum kicked off its annual Cyber Polygon in July 2021, which gave companies and governments the opportunity to participate in a simulation of a “Cyber Pandemic”. It was a

practice session in which they got to brainstorm a scenario, how it would affect the world economy, how it might affect individual corporations and what could be done to protect them.

The participants of the conference were:

• Sberbank CEO and Chairman of the Executive Board Herman Gref

• Inventor and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak

• President of the International Committee of the Red Cross Peter Maurer

• INTERPOL Secretary-General Jürgen Stock

• President of Mastercard Europe Mark Barnett

• Deputy Governor of the Bank of Russia Alexey Zabotkin

Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum Klaus Martin Schwab was the event’s special guest, and the Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Mikhail Mishustin addressed the participants. There was also a remote interview with Russian astronauts Oleg Novitsky and Pyotr Dubrov, who were joining in from the ISS.

During this exercise they discussed why we should prepare for a COVID-like global cyber pandemic that will spread faster and further than a biological virus, with an equal or greater economic impact.

The coronavirus crisis provided insights into how leaders can better prepare for such cyber risks. They state clearly that a cyber pandemic is probably as inevitable as a future disease pandemic. The time to start thinking about the response is – as always – yesterday.

Before we move forward, I have a question for you; if they are saying that a cyber pandemic is inevitable, then why are they pushing us towards digitizing everything? Why not keep tangible assets (money, gold, silver, platinum, copper) around so that if a cyber-attack was to happen, people would not be left stranded with no access to their funds?

They state that a cyber-attack with characteristics similar to the coronavirus would spread faster and further than any biological virus. The cyber equivalent of COVID-19 would be a self-propagating attack using one or more “zero-day” exploits,

techniques for which patches, and specific antivirus software signatures are not yet available. Most likely, it would attack all devices running a single, common operating system or application.

The economic impact of a widespread digital shutdown would be of the same; the end result: millions of devices would be taken offline in a matter of days.

The only way to stop the exponential propagation of cyber-COVID would be to fully disconnect all vulnerable devices from one another and the internet to avoid infection. The whole world could experience cyber lockdown until a digital vaccine was developed.

A digital vaccine; really?

Cyber lockdown would also introduce novel challenges for digitally dependent economies. During the 2020 Australian bushfires, power outages and damage to mobile phone infrastructure gave citizens a newfound appreciation for battery-operated FM radios. If cyber-COVID ravaged a country, which radio stations would still operate without digital recording and transmission systems?

Recovery from the widespread destruction of digital systems would be extremely challenging.

Replacing 5% of the world’s connected devices would require around 71 million new devices. It would be impossible for manufacturers to rapidly scale up production to meet demand.

Widespread, systemic cyberattacks are not just possible or plausible; they should be anticipated. As we have seen with COVID-19, even a short delay in the response can cause exponential damage.

I find it interesting that at the end of the World Economic Forum release they state, “Let’s be better prepared for that one.” How by introducing digital id’s? Community, it is time that we take control of our destiny. We have to take a stand against the digital invasion that is going to leave us floundering. Start to stockpile your tangible resources, just like I had instructed about stocking up food. Stop relying so heavily on debit cards, your phones and computers. Yes, technology is great, but if used against us, it will be devastating. You have all been warned.

Widespread, systemic cyberattacks are not just possible or plausible; they should be anticipated

There has never been a time where I have witnessed psychological abuse at the level that we are experiencing right now, and it is happening without us even realizing it. Our global nations are being manipulated and controlled by a narcissistic and sociopathic regime that utilizes our government as their puppets, who then inflict the same abuse on us, global citizens of planet earth.

Mind control can occur in any system; the ingredients: human beings, and narcissistic leader(s). What can’t be allowed in this type of system is free thinkers or free spirits. People with these qualities are quickly lost in what is now termed as the cancel culture. They are made to look evil, ridiculous; they are called conspiracy theorists, and they are censored on every level.

What is truly unfortunate is that many of us are out here thinking that we are in control of our thinking; we actually

tended your post-secondary school.

During my research on this topic, I came across a clinical psychologist by the name of Margaret Singer. She was a nationally renowned expert on cults, brainwashing, and persuasion; she was an active consultant and expert witness in numerous legal cases.

She speaks extensively on people who use their role and power to exploit the trust, dependency, and fear of others. They use this power to deceptively gain control over the decision making of a person. Like I noted earlier, it has nothing to do with intelligence: the more cognitively impaired someone is, the more easily they can be manipulated. Think about all the talk we have heard about the pandemic causing severe mental health challenges for people; think about how impaired many of us have become without even realizing it.

You can make anybody believe almost anything if you are enough of a con artist. Our government has utilized a system of rewards, punishments, and experiences in order to promote belief systems and group-approved behaviors like: mask wearing and injecting yourself with an untested, and dangerous vaccine.

Those who conformed or were coerced were rewarded for proper performance with social and sometimes material reinforcement (pizza, tickets to sports events, concert tickets, money, and even sex). If you were slow to learn or non-compliant; you were threatened with shunning, banning and punishment; which included loss of self-esteem, privileges, and status (cancel culture).

Governments around the world put forth a closed system of logic and an authoritarian structure that permitted no feedback and refused to be modified except by leadership approval or executive order. Our governments used the six conditions that Dr Singer (2003) outlined a person must be subjected to in order for mind control to happen. Let’s take a look at the six conditions and see if you can identify them in what you have experienced in the last few years.

Keep the target in the dark, unaware that he/she is being changed

Many of us were psychologically led to change their behaviors in order to meet the agenda of the leader (lockdowns, mask wearing). The end goal is for the target to do the bidding of the leader. The end goal is to fulfill the leader’s personal needs for power and control and even to fulfill his/her ultimate fantasies.

Control the person’s physical and social environment

Leaders of mind-control provide ample structure, rules, and assignments to keep targets constantly on task (stand six feet apart, wash your hands, wear a mask or face covering).

Create a sense of powerlessness in the target

As our sense of powerlessness increased, our sense of good judgment and understanding of the world decreased (view of reality is destabilized).

Incorporate a system of rewards and punishments in the person’s life; ones that promote the manipulator’s agenda, and undermine the target’s autonomy and individuality

Individuals who took the vaccine, and wore a mask got positive feedback for conforming to the government’s beliefs and behaviors and negative feedback for old beliefs and behavior.

Create a system of rewards, punishments, and experiences in order to promote learning the groups ideology or belief system and group-approved behaviors

Good behavior: demonstrating an understanding and acceptance of the group’s beliefs, and compliance was rewarded, while questioning, expressing doubts or criticizing was met with disapproval, redress and possible rejection. If you even tried to question what was happening, you were made to feel that there was something inherently wrong with you.

The system is closed, with an authoritarian structure that allows no feedback and refuses input not approved of by leadership approval

The government is run as a top-down, pyramid structure. They never lose, they just change the rules.

I want to remind you that this all happened very slowly. I don’t want anyone to feel bad reading this; awareness is key. Stay vigilant and begin to open your eyes to what is really happening in this world.

• Trying to decrease unemployment

with the application of job creation schemes

Due to the pandemic, buy safety tools, have vaccines fabricated and made available to us all

Give each and every member of the federal public sector wage hikes

Buy new equipment to replace many aged planes, trains and automobiles

COVID-19 gave as well as it took away. In some instances, it took our freedom of choice and many people’s health and lives too. It gave CERB to individuals and businesses to try and survive the pandemic’s effects and the government’s responses to fight it. We had relatively low interest rates, giving those who bank little returns, but also allowing others to cheaply borrow. Then those who run our financial institutions declared an end to the serious part of the pandemic. You can get sick, but possibly not die from it. The money markets, banking institutions and Federal Bank decided to jump start the economy by raising interest rates as a way to control inflation and drive prices downward. They

wanted to get back to normal business. What they created was a schizophrenic economy, unable to function and grow as they so hoped.

Inflation dropped slowly while many prices, particularly those of essential items, rose non-stop. Sure the price of a house dropped a bit, but what you needed for dinner increased. Our politicians felt the need to act, and so they did, while they live outside of the lifestyle most of us experience.

In fact, federal authorities are chasing those who may have received more than was their right, pursuing individuals and businesses that have claimed CERB while possibly not deserving to receive it. Various provincial governments and municipalities have increased their taxes and service charges drastically. The federal government refuses to give billions to provinces who cannot or are unwilling to prove where the funds are going.

The light that is at the end of the tunnel has arrived, and those in need will especially feel its bright denying lights. What do governments do when

the books need to be cleaned up? Look at the Mike Harris government for example. Winning the election, defeating a N.D.P. administration who tried to spend funds on progressively accepted services, the Conservatives of old cut and denied services to those most in need, closing institutions and hospitals so that the books could be balanced. Very different from the Ford Conservatives you may say? Ford’s Conservatives are sitting on billions of dollars given to them by the federal government to fight COVID-19. While Premier Ford is in many ways a Liberal minded conservative, he is a conservative nonetheless.

The Big Giveaway has ended. The new words in Queens Park (Ontario) or any local or state government will be: moderation, restraint, financial moderation or perhaps cost control. The government will spend millions of dollars to persuade us that costs are too high; the public’s pocket book is bare. It is time for a little restraint folks. What is interesting is that the spendthrifts tell those who pay the bills it’s time to open our wallets with humility.

All of our governments have exemplified a college girl on a shopping frenzy

The FDA now has the option to approve drugs that are tested in only non-animal studies

SIMONE SMITH

simone@carib101.com

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) no longer requires new drugs to be tested in animals before being approved. This is thanks to a law passed in December 2022. FDA Modernization Act 2.0 authorizes the use of certain alternatives to animal testing, including cell-based assays and computer models, to obtain an exemption from the Food and Drug Administration to investigate the safety and effectiveness of a drug.

The bill also removes a requirement to use animal studies as part of the process to obtain a license for a biological product that is biosimilar or interchangeable with another biological product.

The agency now has the option to

approve drugs that are tested in only nonanimal studies, including those that use labgrown tissues or computer models, before being tested in clinical trials with humans.

The question is: is this safe, and will it happen any time soon?

Previously, the FDA typically required drugs be tested in one rodent and one nonrodent species, before they were moved into human trials These animal tests help to reveal how drugs break down in the body, whether they reach the tissues they’re intended to target and whether they exert the intended effects on those tissues, all without having harmful side effects. Unfortunately, these tests are not perfect: more than 90% of drugs that pass initial animal tests end up being unsafe or ineffective in humans, according to a 2019 review in the journal Translational Medicine Communications.

Jim Newman, Communications Director at Americans for Medical Progress shared his thoughts in a press release.

“The entire research community is fully and enthusiastically supportive of adopting non-animal alternatives that can reduce or replace animal research. We would all like to lessen the need for animal

studies.

Just like most other Americans, the research community - which is made up of scientists, veterinarians and other dedicated animal care employees - loves and appreciates animals. However, it’s also vitally important for the public to understand that computer models, organs-on-a-chip and organoids are not able to replace animal studies in most cases because these technologies are still in their infancy. As a result, they only provide a limited amount of information required in the drug safety testing process and also in other health research areas.

The study of living systems (aka animal models) is crucial as it allows us to observe and monitor this process closely and learn what happens in a living, breathing body.

Finally, alternative models (such as computer models) can only mimic what we already understand about the human body. As a result, there are many areas where we have a tremendous amount to learn.”

There have been other promising alternatives to animal testing: organoids, or 3D clusters of lab-grown cells mimic key biological features of full-size organs. These

organized clumps, often derived from stem cells, are especially useful for observing celland tissue-level drug responses, as well as assessing how well drugs latch onto their molecular targets There are also spheroids (simpler 3D clusters of cells) that are often used to model cancerous tumors spheroids grown from primary cell lines.

The challenge will be convincing drug developers to adopt new, non-animal testing methods. There will need to be evidence that the models show equivalent or superior performance to animal testing, and reassurance that the FDA views the tests as robust before they heavily invest in new technology. Once they do, that will provide the FDA with more evidence that these tests can replace animal testing.

At the end of the day, there has to be valid, scientifically proven methods for ensuring that the medications that pharmaceutical companies continue to push are safe and effective (sigh). While the scientific community is excited about the development of non-animal alternatives, the adoption of these technologies will take significant time.

BMHC aims to address the disparities in mental health care faced by Black individuals and communities and promote culturally responsive mental health services.

It was truly an empowering and enriching day when it was announced on Friday, February 24th, 2023, in a press release that Black Mental Health Inc. will be receiving close to $1.5 million to support the mental health of Black individuals and Black communities.

Black Mental Health Canada (BMHC) advocates for culturally safe, accessible and affordable Mental Health Care for the diverse Black communities in Canada. The mission of BMHC is to improve the mental health and well-being of Black individuals and communities in Canada by advocating for culturally competent mental health services and promoting community education and empowerment. Furthermore,

In order to accomplish this mission, BMHC is driven by the vision to create a society where Black individuals and communities have equitable access to culturally responsive and effective mental health services, and where mental wellness is valued and prioritized within Black communities. One of the core values that undergirds this vision is the belief that mental health is a fundamental aspect of overall health and well-being, and that all individuals, regardless of race or cultural background, deserve access to high-quality mental health care.

BMHC promotes its vision by:

• Advocating for change

• Raising awareness about the unique mental health needs of Black communities in Canada

BMHC will be receiving $400,000 for its project that will develop Black-centric, traumaresponsive community support services in

Toronto’s Regent Park community. Nazario Ahmed, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Wanasah states, “With a Black Centric and Cultural trauma program in Regent Park and neighbouring communities, we can help build trust, restore dignity, and promote a sense of purpose and belonging. This is not just about addressing past trauma, but also about building a better future for generations to come.”

Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth states, “The road to recovery is complex for those who have experienced mental health challenges and trauma-especially for people who face social exclusion, marginalization, and stigma. This is why our government is proud to support organizations like Black Mental Health Canada and Wanasah to build Black-centric and trauma-response services to better serve the mental health needs of these communities.”

The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health states, “Black communities in Canada continue to face many systemic challenges and barriers to mental health care, and our govern -

ment is committed to addressing them. The projects announced today will create environments for improved mental health outcomes and will ensure that Black individuals and communities across Canada experiencing mental health challenges have access to the most appropriate, culturally relevant supports and services they need by the most appropriate provider.”

Alice Wiafe, President of BMHC notes, “We are honoured and excited to receive funding from the Public Health Agency of Canada to further our mission of promoting mental health and wellness in Black communities. With this funding, we can expand our programs and services to better support the mental health needs of Black Canadians, who have historically faced systemic barriers to accessing appropriate care. Our team at Black Mental Health Canada is committed to working tirelessly to ensure that our communities receive the support they need to thrive, and we thank the Public Health Agency of Canada for their investment in our work.”

Anyone interested in learning about Black Mental Health Canada, can check: blackmentalhealth.ca

Black Mental Health Canada receives funding to support the mental health of Black individuals and communities

“Becoming Canadian, No thank you!”

Newcomers falling out of love with Canadian citizenship

unlock Canada for newcomers.

paul@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

For many years, Canadian citizenship was highly sought and prized as one of the bestkept secrets in the world. However, things have changed drastically as reported by the Institute for Canadian Citizenship (ICC).

According to the website: https:// inclusion.ca/, ICC is committed to ensuring equal access and participation for all people. We strive to provide events and services that are welcoming and accessible to everyone. The organization was founded by Rt. Hon. Adrienne Clarkson and John Ralson Saul in 2005 and since then it has been involved in programs for newcomers to ensure they participated in the: social, cultural and political life of Canada. Their goal is simply to

Danie Bernhard, CEO of ICC states, “Societies that welcome new people as full and equal participants in: economic, social and political life will discover the path to renewal, and so far Canada seems poised to lead the world in this regard. We only will meet the challenges of our time with new ideas, born of new experiences, applied with new energy. There is no other way.”

Some of the programs and activities that ICC has been involved in are:

Citizenship Ceremonies

Our Enhanced Citizenship Ceremonies mark the life-changing moment of citizenship with celebrations centering the plethora of: culture, diversity, and languages that constitute Canada.

Canoo App

This mobile app helps new Canadian citizens celebrate their citizenship by providing free admission to over 1,400: museums, science centres, art galleries, parks, and historic sites across Canada. It is available for free on the App Store and Google play.

Ideas and Insights

As the world’s leading voice on citizenship and inclusion, our research, insights and events shape discourse and drive positive change.

Advocacy

We are advocating for a more inclusive Canada through: research, insights and live events.

ICC highlighted a significant drop in the percentage of permanent residents obtaining Canadian citizenship based on data obtained from Statistics Canada. Information obtained from the 2021 Census show that only 45.7% of permanent residents went on to become citizens in the last 10 years compared to 60% in 2016 and 75.1% in 2001. This translates to an overall 40% drop in citizenship uptake over 20 years. The source of the data can be seen in a report titled, “Trends in the Citizenship Rate Among New Immigrants to Canada 1991 to 2016” (Statistics Canada, 2019).

In response to this data, Daniel Bernhard states, “To go from 75% of new-

comers obtaining citizenship to only 45% is shocking. It goes against everything we tend to think about Canada. It raises all sorts of questions that will have no easy answers, but it is certainly a wakeup call. Canada’s future depends on newcomers becoming Canadian and contributing their energy and talents to our shared success. We should be extremely alarmed that newcomers are falling out of love with Canadian citizenship, which has for decades been highly desirable.”

George Carothers, Senior Director, Ideas and Insights at ICC states, “The declining citizenship rate has the potential to harm Canada’s long-term economic, social and democratic resilience. Immigrants are not just workers, but future voters and civic leaders. What’s certain is that the future of Canada’s democracy depends on this issue being addressed. The ICC is working hard to identify the causes behind this apparent crash in the market value of being Canadian and we encourage Canadians to join us. We should want those who are contributing to Canada to stay here and become citizens.”

SYDNEE WALCOTT

sydnee@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

People from different walks of life will move to places like Canada or the United States for a better life and achieve better opportunities.

an upcoming immigrant drama series about Heron’s childhood in Jamaica and his life after moving to the United States.

The show will entail Heron’s life growing up in Jamaica as he interacts with his family through danger and misfits and how he transitioned into becoming a parole officer in New York City.

This series is a milestone achievement for cast member Darron Donaldson as this is his first major acting role.

Donaldson was cast as the main character’s ambitious and charismatic cousin, Trevor (a.k.a Sonny), who is determined to be successful by any means necessary after illegally moving to the United States.

As a Jamaican and an actor, Donaldson feels very privileged to have this role

because his first major acting role also happens to be an international role.

He also feels honoured that Heron has asked him to help share his story.

Besides hoping this opportunity will lead to him getting more leading roles, Donaldson also hopes this series will open the doors to other Caribbean people sharing their immigrant stories with the world.

“I hope the viewers will know this isn’t like a typical Jamaican show about drugs or violence,” said Donaldson, who would like for viewers to see this show is about the love of family.

The show will feature light-hearted moments, exciting moments, and drama moments featuring illegal activities and arguments.

David Heron, the CEO of Sure Thing, will be playing the main character’s stern and caring father, Samuel Heron, who moves to The United States on his own before bringing the rest of the family over.

As an actor and a PR for the show, what sets the show apart from most immigrant stories is that this series will be the first to be about an immigrant achieving the “American Dream” from a Jamaican/Caribbean perspective in Heron’s opinion. The show is currently in post-production, and the producers will pitch the show to many international cable networks and streaming services for the next few months.

Do the vaccinations we have been encouraged to take contain pathogens and chemicals that could affect us in the future?

mentation guidelines for suspected and confirmed cases.

ICD-10-CM codes: Information readily available

Confirmed cases positive, presumed positive

2. Potential cases...suspected possible, probable or inclusive tests

3. Ruled out cases

4. Asymptomatic screening of those with negative or unknown results

Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes

Nucleic Acid Testing: Testing of novel coronavirus

2. Antibody Testing: revised code (86318 can be used along with new child code 86328 for antibody testing

Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System created for use with coronavirus testing

1. CDC Testing for tests performed at CDC Labs

2. Other testing done in non-CDC labs including private labs

3. High DNA testing used in nucleic acid testing

4. Other testing using tests of another technique other than the CDC Lab

Correct coding matters, for financial and healthcare purposes, faster reimbursements for testing and enabling patients to receive covered care. Accurate documentation supplies crucial data to be shared with appropriate medical authorities, which hopefully helps track the prevalence and spread of COVID-19 and other possibly new coronavirus.

The huge effort having been invested to track and document the fight against COVID-19 has presented society with a number of moral questions. Can the information acquired upon our citizenry be illegally used, manipulated and even stolen for nefarious uses? Do the multiple vaccinations we have been encouraged to take contain pathogens and chemicals that

could affect us in the future? Are we guinea pigs, and has the pharmaceutical industry’s outreach to our governments become intertwined, controlling with undue influence present?

Ultimately research into the effects of multiple vaccinations and its long-term effects upon patients is essential. What is the ethical challenge before Big Pharma and our governments?

Did you know that once you go to a doctor’s office and give blood samples, and it is sent to a laboratory for analysis, what happens to that blood? Who has a patent/ ownership on that sample of DNA? Did you know that multiple members of Big Pharma have taken samples of DNA and placed patents upon them, often for use in research and industry without the knowledge or approval of donors?

When a crisis happens, someone always sees an opportunity within the crisis, and profits from it. Has the pandemic created the perfect environment for such actions by our government and big business?

“This isn’t like a typical Jamaican show about drugs or violence, ”A look at upcoming series “From Yard!”

PAUL JUNOR

SIMONE SMITH

“Given all that we have learned about the dangers and ineffectiveness of COVID shots over the last two years, it is horrifying to see the CDC now recommend this as a routine shot to children. Although it is unsurprising given the agency capture, it is nonetheless tragic.”

Children’s Health Defense (CHD) President and General Counsel Mary Holland

On October 20th, 2022, CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted unanimously to add COVID-19 vaccines to the recommended pediatric immunization schedule. While most health care providers follow ACIP guidance when making vaccine recommendations for their patients, adding vaccines to the CDC’s pediatric immunization schedule does not constitute a vaccine mandate. They say

We must demand proper safety studies before widespread child immunization

that state governments are still in control of determining school immunization requirements for their jurisdictions.

Earlier this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced updated recommendations to the immunization schedules, including the addition of COVID-19 shots and boosters for children ages 6 months–18 years.

The CDC’s addition of COVID-19 shots to the childhood and adolescent immunization schedules may give states the power to make the shots mandatory for school attendance. However, many states have laws on the books that prohibit COVID vaccine mandates for children. It is not known how this new CDC rule will affect children in those states.

What must be taken into consideration is that vaccine makers are not liable for injuries or deaths associated with Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) vaccines but can be held liable for injuries caused by a fully licensed vaccine — unless that vaccine is added to the CDC’s childhood vaccination schedule.

What does this mean? It means that once a vaccine is added to the childhood immunization schedule, its manufacturers (Pfizer and Moderna) are no longer liable for any vaccine injuries and for ANY wrongdoing whatsoever.

A country with a functioning regulator and honest press (not North America obviously), would take a serious look at drug companies who would put forth a proposal so nonsensical as “Infant Covid Vaccine.” Instead, CDC approved this, and the media reports this approval readily.

Let’s take for example what is happening in Europe. Moderna is banned for young people in many countries in Europe. The reason is well known, and it is because of an even greater rate of adverse events from the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.

In a research article titled, “Public should be told that vaccines may have long term adverse effects,” the author John Barthelow Classen notes that at a conference held in Bethesda, Maryland, in May 1998 the reviewed data on immunizations starting after the age of two months and its association with an increased risk of diabetes. The analysis was further supported by a similar rise in diabetes after immunization with the H influenzae Type B vaccine in the United States and United Kingdom. Furthermore, the increased risk of diabetes in the vaccinated group exceeded the expected decreased risk of complications of H influenzae meningitis.

Research into immunization has been based on the theory that the benefits of immunization far outweigh the

risks from delayed adverse events and so long-term safety studies do not need to be performed. This is troubling due to the fact that many of the adverse effects would not be seen until years later.

You know me, I love asking questions, and the question I have right now is, shouldn’t the FDA at least stop for a minute and think about what they are doing, approving a vaccine that is banned in Europe?

“The childhood schedule is already unscientific and unjustifiable,” said Children’s Health Defense (CHD) President and General Counsel Mary Holland. “Adding this shot may well be the straw that breaks the camel’s back. Parents are likely to resist, finally calling the entire childhood vaccine schedule into question. That day has been long in coming, but it is now here. I believe we are now watching the beginning of the end of the reign of Big Pharma over the nation’s children.”

We believe that the public should be fully informed that vaccines, though effective in preventing infections, may have long term adverse effects. As an educated community we must demand proper safety studies before widespread immunization. The outcome; the development of safer vaccine technology.

Rwandian Canadian Healing has collaborated with six African Canadian community organizations to create the African Canadian Affordable Housing - Solutions Lab Project. The intended aim is to incorporate traditional African values into an affordable housing model to address the need for more suitable and culturally relevant housing for continental African Canadians.

The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) was an active participant contributing more than

$230,000 to the project to design a model of housing that typifies the traditional African village. The goal is that this model design will be affordable, culturally relevant, and intergenerational.

The six partners who are part of the African Canadian Affordable Housing Lab Project are:

• The Ghanian-Canadian Association of Canada (GCAO)

• Network for the Advancement of Black Communities (NABC)

• CASA Consult Design Inc

• The New Nakla-Eritrean Community Network

• The GTA Rwandan Canadian Collective

• Kenyan Canadian Association (KCA)

The Rwandian-Canadian Healing Centre (RCHC) is a federally registered non-profit organization that was founded in 2018 by

Kizoto Musabimana and operates from Toronto. It primarily provides services to the Rwandian Canadian community, but it works with other communities to help individuals overcome traumatic experiences from genocides, wars and other catastrophes. Their mission is to ensure they are building a Healing Centre for all who struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTDS) and other trauma-related effects. The overall vision is to serve as a Multidimensional PTSD Research Centre for healing education, and social advocacy. The project will involve five phases that are projected to be completed by June 2023. They will then collaborate to promote and implement the housing model. In addition, the National Housing Strategy will play an important role in ensuring that solutions are presented to tackle the ongoing housing challenges, which are present across Canada.

Kizito Musabimana, Founder and

Executive Director of RCHC states, “We want to recreate the support and community of traditional African villages for African Canadians living in Canada who haven’t been able to experience it. It will bring a taste of home to the community. As a newcomer in Canada who has experienced homelessness, I would have greatly benefitted from an affordable housing project like this, which focuses on community and connection that offers resources to navigate a new country. I hope the project brings about positive lasting impacts that address affordable housing challenges.”

Moses Gashirabake, Chairman of the Board of RCHC states, “We are an organization that focuses on mental health, and we realized that improving mental health starts by ensuring our basic needs are met. How can we heal when we are focused on survival? A lack of affordable housing and rising living costs directly worsens Canada’s mental health crisis.”

How can we heal when we are focused on survival?

The African Canadian community establish an affordable housing project

Have you been around a person who thrives on drama? A person who plays people against each other, keeps dangerous secrets, lies and leaves a trail of upset and powerless people in their wake.

This person creating dangerous situations is one way that they create drama, and unfortunately, some people are undoubtedly going to emerge from the drama weakened, upset, and scared because the dangerous situation they’ve been pulled into is a lose-lose situation for them.

With their brash, self-centered ways, this person can hurt the people around them emotionally, and often their deepest fear is of being exposed as a nothing. So, they will protect their own fragile shell above all else, even if it sometimes emotionally harms the people they love the most.

The person we are talking about is someone who has narcissistic personal-

a self-esteem boost

ity disorder. They express extreme levels of grandiosity about themselves and show a lack of empathy for others. People who don’t qualify for a diagnosis of the disorder can display certain narcissistic traits, such as arrogant behavior, a need for external validation and the expectation that they should be recognized as superior by others.

According to Dr Jonice Webb, there are four characteristics of the narcissist, which can work together to make him a danger. They are:

• The need to protect their inflated sense of self can make them desperate

• The need to feed his sense of specialness can drive them to violate others boundaries

• Lack of empathy for others can make them incapable of seeing when they hurt others

• Their belief that they are special can make it easy for them to rationalize their actions

New research finds that in some cases, narcissists actually have low self-esteem, but they’re not chasing a self-esteem boost with their self-aggrandizing behavior. Instead, they’re seeking status.

Virgil Zeigler-Hill a psychology professor at Oakland University in Michigan, has focused on the notion that self-

esteem isn’t a narcissist’s main problem; instead, he said, narcissists are desperate for status, and their inflated self-esteem tends to be a consequence of feeling like they are admired and exalted, rather than the other way around.

“What they really care about is navigating status hierarchies,” Zeigler-Hill told Live Science. “They care about being better than other people, they care about other people respecting and admiring them, they care about the benefits you get from being high status.”

While self-esteem is how a person feels about themself, status perception is how they feel about how others see them. Almost everyone cares, at some level, how they are perceived by others, but for people with narcissism, status-seeking takes on an outsized role in how they feel about themselves.

It is okay to be understanding that he or she is protecting herself from the hurt that they experienced in childhood, but at the same time, it is vital to protect yourself and keep your boundaries intact.

Personally, I have always found it safer to stay away from this personality type. They have a tendency to pull you into their darkness, and before you know it, you have become swallowed up.

Be mindful, and do not let your compassion make you vulnerable.

Toronto District School Board approves mandatory Indigenous course for Grade 11 students

The Trustees of the Toronto District School Board voted in favour to replace the current compulsory Grade 11 course with one called “Understanding Contemporary First Nations, Metis and Inuit Voices.”

Rachel Chernos Lin, Chair of the TDSB shared her thoughts with the media, “This will give students a sense of Indigenous voices, of Indigenous authors, of the Indigenous experience in Canada, which is part of our responsibility in ensuring the call to action in truth and reconciliation, but also a greater opportunity for students to have that learning that the vast majority of Canadians never had growing up. It’s not meant to replace, it’s meant to enrich.”

The implementation of this course is reflective of changes that other school boards have voted on. The York Region District School Board and the Durham District School Board will be going ahead in 2023 to ensure that this Indigenous course is taught as a Grade 11 English credit. The course is taught in 29 out of 110 secondary schools in Toronto at the moment.

The Grade 11 course was created by the Ministry of Education and has

been taught in TDSB for quite some time. It is supported by: the Elders’ Council, the Urban Indigenous Community Advisory Committee, the TDSB’s Urban Indigenous Education Centre, and Indigenous writers, poets, and artists. When this course is compared with the current compulsory Grade 11 English course, there are four identical strands: First Nations, Metis, and Inuit Perspectives and Text Forms in Canada, Oral Communications, Reading and Literature Studies, Writing, and Media Studies.

Isaiaih Shafqat, an Indigenous student trustee was instrumental in pushing to have the Indigenous course compulsory in Grade 11. This course will be taught from a trauma-informed culturally responsive and sensitive perspective. He adds,

“This is a really important change that is happening. Including Indigenous perspectives and worldviews in a mainstream course in the largest school board in Canada sends a strong message, and one that I hope ripples throughout the province.”

He continues, “Indigenous resurgence is a key part of reconciliation, and when people are interested in reconciliation that’s when we can see change that is transformative, and that really honours Indigenous people, the lived Indigenous peoples, and the lived experience that we have. Indigenous victories are often hidden. Being the largest school board in Canada and having this course mandatory, people will have to listen, and they will have to learn.”

On February 3rd, 2023, a @isaihashafqat tweeted, “I want to acknowledge that this work has and will always be for students. Students are the number one stakeholders in education, and students love to learn when they’re reflected in the classroom. TDSB has enacted critical change and students will have a better understanding of Indigenous Peoples, issues, culture, and histories, because of it. Truth and Reconciliation is an on-going commitment and one we continue to work towards. The work is not over. I am excited to continue this important work.”

Colleen Russell-Rawlins, Director of Education at the TDSB states, “I am fully supportive of the gradual implementation of this important course in all TDSB secondary schools. Indigenous Elders and scholars have reminded us that truth must come before reconciliation, yet the TDSB and the Ontario education system have no mechanism yet for ensuring that all students learn the truth about Indigenous: brilliance, contributions, history, and learn from contemporary voices in Canada. This is an exciting opportunity to ensure our students graduate with a greater understanding of Indigenous cultures and history than their parents/caregivers.”

The TDSB indicated that there would be a report prepared that will provide greater information about the implementation of this course. There will be details released later with respect to timelines; staff and students will be able to access this course on the board website.

New research finds that in some cases, narcissists actually have low self-esteem, but they’re not chasing

United Boxing Promotions has set the stage; a year of boxing fans paradise, right here in Canada

ing that is related to violence or anger; it is quite the opposite.

Boxing is watching two individuals control their anger and violence. This sport is about training one’s body, testing one’s limits, and reaching peak performance. On Saturday, I watched two individuals turn their bodies into weapons, and this is what excites the boxing fans.

What can I say, I am addicted to the drama of it all. With each punch, the outcome of the fight changed. I watched as two evenly matched fighters went head-to-head; the tension was almost unbearable. Watching Saturday night’s boxing match was a rollercoaster of emotions…

Boxing is a sport that stands out from the rest for many reasons, and it is why on February 25th, 2023, the CAA center was buzzing and alive. United Boxing Promotions has once again set the stage for a year of what is going to be seen as a boxing fans paradise, right here in Canada.

I believe that some people misunderstand the reason for boxing’s popularity and why people like myself love the sport so much. Some may see the sport as violent, but there is nothing about box-

It was a stacked night of fights, and I came just in time to see Jamaican boxer Gregory Miller face Drake Olchowecki. Gregory took a disappointing loss to Drake; although Miller was nimble enough to avoid the majority of Drake’s punches, it looked like he lost steam in the last few rounds.

The next fight between Daniel Roach and Antonio Scaringi had the crowd on their feet. It was like watching a chess match, with both fighters employing a strategy that utilized their strengths against their opponent’s weaknesses. Both fighters moved around the ring and executed punches and defensive maneuvers with speed and precision. Daniel Roach walked away with the victory, but no knock on Antonio. Overall, it was an impressive fight.

The fight between Sara Haghighat-

Joo and Mayela “La Cobrita” Perez could have easily been the main event. These intense warriors came with their all on Saturday, and Sara was determined to give her fans an excellent performance. What I appreciate the most about Sara is her impeccable timing. Timing is what has elevated Sara from a good boxer to a great one. She has the unique ability to use her foresight to predict the direction and movement of her opponent. Although Mayela put up an excellent fight, Sara was the aggressor and walked away with the decision.

Finally, the main event between Josh “The Boss” Wagner and Xhuljo Vrenozi was everything that it was hyped up to be. Wagner came with all of the fire dominating the fight from beginning to end. He threw every punch with the intention of causing damage, and he mentally dominated the fight. Speed was Wagner’s advantage on Saturday night; it exposed Vrenozi’s weaknesses, and Wagner was able to display a combination of accuracy and power. It was no surprise when Wagner’s hand was raised at the end of the fight.

There is a reason why I am such a huge fan of United Boxing Promotions; not only do they satisfy my boxing appetite,

but they are now doing something that is near and dear to my heart; providing Jamaican boxers an opportunity to live out their fighting dreams.

On Saturday night it was announced that United Boxing Promotions reached a promotional agreement with Jamaican former Continental Middleweight Champion Kemahl “The Hitman” Russell. A product of Kingston, Jamaica, the electrifying Russell (13-1, 11 KO) is ready to return to the ring with a vengeance following a hiatus from the sport.

“I’m excited to sign Kemahl, he’s one of the best boxers to come out of Jamaica in recent years,” Tyler Buxton shared with me.

That’s right boxing fans; on April 29th, 2023, at Pickering Casino Resort, there will be two Jamaicans on the fight card: Heavyweight Champion Ricardo “Big 12” Brown, and of course Kemahl “The Hitman” Russell.

I want to see all the boxing fans in the community out supporting our island’s talented champions. For more information on tickets, you can visit unitedpromotions. ca and I am looking forward to seeing you all there!

Happy 20th Anniversary to our “No-Nonsense Health” E-newsletter

This month marks twenty years since the Gifford-Jones newspaper column became accompanied by a “medical update” sent by email to subscribing readers. In early February 2003, the column printed in newspapers was titled, “My Email Nightmare.” It began like this: My daughter said, “Dad don’t do it. You don’t need the headaches. Just write your column.” My three sons cautioned, “You have no conception of what you’re getting into. There will be loads of technical problems. Stick to your column.” Well I didn’t take their counsel and they were right. Agreeing to provide readers with free medical updates by email has given

me E-mailitis. The response was massive, a bloody nightmare, and I keep hearing voices “Don’t do it.”

It’s a wrinkle in time to read that column now, and yet, so relatable.

In 2003, we were a 79-yearold medical doctor and journalist and a 34-year-old world banker. Back then, we were grappling with the “how to” of email distribution lists, and the youngsters in tech jobs were running circles around us.

The column from 2003 discussed spinal stenosis. The email distribution triggered a flood of responses from readers asking for more information. “It seemed like everyone had spinal stenosis.”

Others wanted medical advice on a variety of conditions. More had seen several doctors without getting help and wanted a Gifford-Jones opinion, but no good doctor will diagnose or treat diseases by email.

Today, what has changed? Weren’t communication technologies supposed to make our lives easier?

The futurist Arthur C. Clark claimed, “Any sufficiently advanced tech-

nology is indistinguishable from magic.” We find only more headaches in email managed by Mailchimps. Websites and webinars involve hostgators, geek powers, and something called GoDaddy.

We branched into social media, which is decidedly not for novices. Our efforts at an RSS feed, which stands for “really simple syndication” has been the biggest headache of them all!

Is all this effort to communicate worth it? Were we better off with the limitations of ink on newsprint? One of the most influential thinkers and writers of the 20th century, Gertrude Stein lamented, “Everybody gets so much information all day long that they lose their common sense.”

Now we have sophisticated computer programs called chatbots. ChatGPT (released in November 2022) uses written inputs to produce human-like responses. It can write poetry in any style and create original jokes. Educators are alarmed that it can write essays with ease. If you are lonely, it can be a companion to talk to. We didn’t ask it to write this column, but it could probably offer a good one given all the

past columns it can read in a flash on our website!

By January, ChatGPT had over 100 million users. In another twenty years from now, we wonder what kinds of headaches these advances will cause. Looking on the bright side, maybe there will be a cure for the common headache, but we doubt it.

For now, we continue to write this column the traditional way: once a week, for syndication in newspapers, in print and online. We email it to editors – a technology blessing. For years, Mrs. Gifford-Jones trudged weekly to the post office with a stack of envelopes to mail the article to editors. The blessings also to her!

Happy 20th anniversary to our “no nonsense health” e-newsletter, sent out on Tuesdays to those who have signed up on our website. Dare we ask what readers think? Let us know!

We have another monumental benchmark at the end of this month, when one of us will start his 100th trip around the sun.

Sign-up at www.docgiff.com to receive our weekly e-newsletter.

is no Vicar of Jesus Christ; he is a supporter of the elites that are responsible for the suffering of the Congo

michael@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

On January 31st, 2023, the people of Congo and their clergy welcomed Francis Bergoglio to their land, and from the looks of the video I have seen they were one stop short of literally worshiping this being. Some of these citizens were missing limbs, limbs that were removed just like the country’s much-needed resources such as lithium, which is essential for making mobile phones.

Let’s have a religious look at Congo for a moment from a Catholic point of view.

where beings like Bergoglio are still welcome.

Imagine orphan African children who had witnessed the violent death of their parents, and as if that was not punishment enough, they are being brought to kneel before Bergoglio.

When the Cardinal of Congo mentioned the country’s upcoming elections and asked, “Will the winners of the elections defend the interests of the Congolese people, or will they act in the interests of the elites that manipulate elections worldwide.” This statement leaves one to wonder if he knows Bergoglio’s true reputation and whom this man supports.

Francis could not yet say on his Congo visit what he had declared a few days before in the world media, where he openly said that all Catholic bishops had to go through a conversion to welcome LGBTQ people into the Church. Good luck to him with that part of his agenda and the African community.

According to a letter from Byzantine Catholic Patriarchate BCP, Bergoglio is doing his best to set Africa up not only for physical failure but most importantly spiritual separation from the creator.

“Bergoglio knew that if he was

to achieve his goal, he first had to win the hearts of Africans, especially the Catholic Congo. Only in the next phase will he stab them in the back. So, he will not just rob them of earthly riches, as the elites do with whom he is in union, but he will also rob them of spiritual riches, that is, of eternal life.”

It is very important to understand who this so-called pope is.

Francis is a fanatical promoter of experimental mRNA vaccination, regardless of the disastrous consequences it has brought and will bring. He was in opposition to the real experts, who warned against it, by using demagogic slogans like, “Vaccines for all... It must be done; it’s an act of love... Anyone who refuses it commits a sin.”

As far back as 2018 at the Youth Synod in Rome, the pope has been pushing to get African bishops to sign on to his satanic homosexual ideology, but the bishops of Africa clearly stated that they could not sign such documents, because after returning to Africa, the people would not go for that sort of lifestyle.

According to the Byzantine Catholic Patriarchate (BCP), Francis pays great

lip service to the poor of Africa however, he will not lift a finger to help them, because he is in alliance with the elites and promotes their depopulation agenda. The suffering Congolese people trust him to death and see him as their saviour. In this situation, if any of the bishops in the Congo opposed Francis and told the truth about who he is and what his aim is, no one would believe them.

The war in Congo has been going on for 60 years and has claimed 12 million lives, yet it would be interesting to find anything that the Vatican has done to alleviate the suffering of the people of Congo during these six decades.

That said, the Vatican is no stranger to inside crimes. Just over a year ago five Vatican ex-officials, including Cardinal Angelo Becciu, were indicted. The charges include money laundering, fraud, extortion, and abuse of office, according to Vatican News.

The office of the Vatican is very powerful; one would think that this Pope would use this kind of international influence to bring about peace in Congo rather than introducing such an already traumatic nation to homosexuality and experimental vaccines.

Canada needs to reimagine its power structure, and end its massive federal overreach

STEVEN KASZAB

steven@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

wanted much more, asking for 28 billion each year. The deal included an increase in the Canadian Health Transfer, which is an equal, per capita transfer to each province with limited strings attached. There would be a lot of face to face between individual provinces and the federal government. Whenever the federal government funds a program or project, Western Canada ends up footing a disproportionate share of the bill.

Individual provinces will now be responsible for their management of their healthcare budgets and the funds received from Ottawa. The problem is, the more we shift programs from provincial to federal jurisdiction, the greater the financial disparity, because the west is subsi-

dized more and more. There is no fairness here. The fairest deal for the west isn’t for federal governments to spend more money on healthcare, but for the federal government to stop funding healthcare entirely. That way the federal government can cut taxes and return healthcare to the province’s jurisdiction, as it is in the constitution.

Provinces can collect their taxes from their citizens, and spend it as they see fit. Alberta sees this deal as a way for the federal government to bribe and manipulate each province to do what the federal government wishes. Alberta’s Premier Danielle Smith said, “I know we have been passive for so long that the trend to forget that the constitution actually gives

us sovereignty in the matters that are enumerated to us.”

There are Premiers who see this deal as a way for the federal government to walk all over the province’s jurisdiction. Premier Smith also said “We always lose when we go up against Ottawa. They take our money and they dribble it back with conditions attached, stealing the rest and use the other revenue to buy votes in Quebec and Atlantic Canada.”

Canada needs to reimagine its power structure, and end its massive federal overreach in almost every jurisdiction. The federal government often ignores our constitution, making new rules that favour federal politics and not the provinces.

Sierra Leone officially opens its first Honorary Consulate in Jamaica

Jamaican maroons from Cudjoe’s Town were deported to Nova Scotia after the Second Maroon War in 1796, and in 1800 to Sierra Leone. They settled in Freetown and the Colony of Sierra Leone in 1792 after it was established by the Sierra Leone Company.

Leone and Jamaica. Professor Hamilton brings tremendous capacity that will be of immense value in forging a deeper relationship between the people of Sierra Leone and Jamaica, especially in the areas of trade.”

The announcement in a press release on Wednesday, January 25th, 2023, that Sierra Leone will officially open its first Honorary Consulate in Jamaica is a positive move. At present, there is a Sierra Leone Embassy office in Jamaica, which is an office of communication between the Sierra Leone Government and Jamaica. It operates as the official representative of Sierra Leone in Jamaica.

The deep roots between Jamaica and Sierra Leone were documented in the book, “The Maroons In Jamaica,” written by Mavis Campbell in 1988. Less than 600

The official launch of the honorary consulate in Jamaica took place in the midst of a week of commemorative activities from February 6th to 11th, 2023. Professor Rosalea Hamilton was appointed by the President of Sierra Leone, His Excellency Retired General Brigadier, Julius Maada Bioas as the first Honorary Consul for the Republic of Sierra Leone in Jamaica hosted the events.

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Sierra Leone commends Consular Hamilton on his appointment, “I am truly honoured and incredibly excited about this opportunity to contribute to deepening cultural ties and forging stronger trade and economic relationships between the peoples of Sierra

The official opening was held on Tuesday, February 7th, 2023, in Red Hills, St. Andrew. In attendance were Honourable Dr. Memunatu Pratt, Sierra Leone Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, and other government officials. The day was replete with Sierra Leonean music, food, and fashion.

On Wednesday, February 8th, 2023, Dr. Memunatu Pratt rang the opening bell of the Jamaica Stock Exchange war. Later that day, there was an AfricaCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum hosted by the P.J. Patterson Institute for Africa-Caribbean Advocacy, University of the West Indies, Mona.

On Thursday, February 9th, 2023, there was a cultural exchange at the Institute of Jamaica, East Street, Kingston

titled, “Jamaica-Sierra Leone Family Reunion: Flesh of my Flesh, Blood of my Blood.”

I interviewed Professor Hamilton on Friday, February 17th, 2023, and she provided me with additional information about the launch. She mentioned that the honorary consul is a non-paid volunteer position, but it serves a very practical and important function. She told me of two specific cases where she was able to intervene and help Sierra Leone nationals in Jamaica. In many ways she has been referred to as the first honorary consul of the Caribbean as there is none in other islands.

Professor Hamilton describes how the role of an honorary consulate is recognized under the Geneva Conventions. She expressed excitement about the work of the honorary consulate as it explores opportunities for trade, investment and tourism with the republic.

Francis

From journalist to a significant change agent

The Order of Canada is recognized as one of the most important honours awarded to Canadians. It recognizes people across all sectors of society who have made extraordinary and sustained contributions to our nation. The motto of the Order of Canada in Latin is “DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM,” which translates to “They desire a better country.” It is largely due to the Advisory Council that recommendations are made to the Governor General who finalizes the appointments. Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simone, Governor General of Canada states in the press release, “What a beautiful way to end the year, honouring Order of Canada appointees and learning about the depth and range of their accomplishments. Celebrated trailblazers in their respective fields, they are: inspiring, educating, and mentoring future generations, creating a foundation of excellence in our country that is respected throughout the world. Their commitment to the betterment of Canada fills me with pride and hope for the future. Alianaigusuqatigiivassi. Congratulations.”

Hamlin Washington Grange C.M. from Courtice, Ontario was awarded the Order of Canada, “For his pioneering work in diversity and inclusion, as a passionate change agent for social justice.” It is a powerful story of how Hamlin rose to the apex of the diversity consultant field to be recognized Canada-wide.

Tiffany Ford, CEO & Strategist of The Ford Global Group Inc, provided a bio of Hamlin, which outlines his academic, personal, and professional accomplishments. It shows his rise from a journalist to a significant change agent.

After his migration to Canada from Jamaica at the age of 10, Hamlin attended Central Technical High School in 1968 where he distinguished himself as a stellar track and field athlete. He played an instrumental role in ensuring that his school won the city championship, which was the first time in 25 years. Hamlin was elected as the President of the Student Council and was very active during the period when there were cutbacks to education by the provincial governments, which led to disruptions across Ontario.

Hamlin attended the University of Colorado on a track scholarship where he completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism with a minor in African American Studies and Research Methodologies. Hamlin represented Canada as a member of the National Junior Track and Field Team across Europe and America, and was the Canadian Junior record-holder in the 400 m hurdles for several years. In 1975, he won the Canadian Senior Championship in Sudbury with a time of 52.7 seconds, which was a few seconds off the qualifying time for the 1976 Montreal Olympics.

Hamlin started his journalism career as

a reporter at the Rocky Mountain News in Denver, Colorado, and on his return to Canada, he worked for Contrast newspaper, a well-known Black ethnic paper in the 1970s as managing editor. Hamlin subsequently worked for: CBC Television, Global Television, Toronto Star and hosted Workweek, on CBC Newsworld and TVOntario and the CBC’s More to the Story. In addition, he served as co-host of Good Evening Jamaica, which was broadcasted via the internet across Jamaica and the world.

I interviewed Hamlin on Tuesday, January 24th, and he responded to a range of questions that I posed that were primarily informational in nature. He shared with me that he grew up in a single-parent household, and his mother (who was a nurse) played a critical role in his formative years. It was at Central Tech that he honed his leadership skills by participating in: student activism, negotiation, networking and speaking. He had intentions to attend the Harbord Collegiate, which was perceived to be more academic than Central Tech, but had to overcome barriers of streaming which was heavily encouraged by educators to push marginalized racialized students from specialized intellectually challenging and stimulating courses in the 1970s.

It was largely through grit, willpower and resilience that he was able to pursue post-secondary studies at the University of Colorado, where he met his wife, Cynthia Reyes. Hamlin told me that there were no specific factors that led to his career choice in the field of journalism. He became a reporter with the Rocky Mountain News in Denver and subsequently with Contrast newspaper as a reporter/ managing editor. He told me that for any young person who is thinking of going into journalism his advice would be, “Being a journalist is about exploring and finding out about: people, places and things that can make changes happen.”

Hamlin shared with me why he believes that diversity in mainstream media is important. He started Innoversity in 1991 along with his wife to open up opportunities for minority reporters and journalists to get exposure. He does not believe that DEI training does not go far enough. They subsequently founded DiversityPro Inc., which offers HR consulting, diversity and inclusion, and executive coaching. Hamlin serves as the president and principal consultant. He states, “Leaders should be culturally adaptive with a worldview that sees the big picture.”

DISCONTINUATION OF SUNDAY OPERATIONS

Effective Tuesday, February 28, 2023, JN Money Services will discontinue Sunday operations at all JN Money Branches in Canada.

We encourage you to send your transfers via www.jnmoneyonline.com or visit any one of our nearby Agents to send your money transfer:

Scarborough:

Loan4Payday 1703 Victoria Park Ave, Scarborough, ON M1R 1R9

Speedy Cash Cell Mart 4352 Kingston Rd Unit-2, Scarborough, ON M1E 2M8

Ontario:

QiK Cash and Pawn 1728 Jane St, North York, ON M9N 2S3

Jamaica Way Restaurant 614 Trethewey Dr, North York, ON M6M 4C3

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused.

Brampton:

African Royal Foods 332 Main St N, Brampton, ON L6V 1P8

A&R Island Market 333 Fairhill Ave, Brampton, ON L7A 3N9

Payday Loan Mart 15 Gateway Blvd, Brampton, ON L6T 0H4

Gem Fish Meat and Groceries 30 Kennedy Rd S Unit # 4, Brampton, ON L6W 3E2

Bev Spa and Beauty Supplies 289 Rutherford Rd S Unit 19B, Brampton, ON L6W 3R9

Jayaros African & Caribbean Food Market 188 Main St S, Brampton, ON L6W 2E2

Sleep problems in pregnant women

The effects of pregnancy can be felt in any aspect of your life, including your sleep cycle. When your sleep quality is poor due to physical discomfort, troubling nightmares or an overactive mind, staying awake — and alert — throughout the day can become quite the challenge. Here are a few pointers to help you get the rest you need.

Physical factors

The changes your body goes through during pregnancy can easily get in the way of a good night’s sleep. Breast tenderness, back pain and seemingly random bouts of nausea can be difficult to keep under control. And even when those symptoms aren’t present, there’s no escaping the nighttime bathroom breaks that only get more frequent as your baby grows against your bladder. Every woman is different, so you’ll need to take a trial-and-error approach to find the right sleep solution

for you. Start by adding a few extra pillows to your bed, and try sleeping with one between your legs and one under your shoulders.

Recovering lost sleep

If sleepless nights no longer provide you with enough rest to get through the day, your weapon of choice is a nap. Get your energy levels back on track by taking an afternoon snooze a few times a week, but don’t overdo it. Remember: hitting the hay at a reasonable hour is your best bet against next-day fatigue. Your body needs all the hours of sleep it can get to carry you through your daily routine, which is why health-care professionals emphasize the importance of an early bedtime for pregnant women.

Benefits of homemade baby food

Once your baby is ready to graduate from the bottle to solid foods, your first instinct might be to purchase ready-made baby food from the supermarket. This is perhaps the most convenient option, but is it really what’s best for your child? Making your own baby food comes with its share of benefits for little tummies. Plus, the money you’ll save by switching from store-bought to homemade is well worth the extra effort.

Tasty and frugal

There’s no denying that homemade baby food has a higher nutritional value than its store-bought counterpart, which often contains ingredients that are non-essential to your child’s development. Without additives like dyes and starches to get in the way, your jars of pureed meats, fruits and veggies are perfect to introduce your baby to the flavours and consistencies of solid food. What’s more, because baby food keeps well, you can save time, money and hassle by whipping up large batches at a time.

UNLIMITED OPTIONS

Grocery stores carry a limited selection of baby foods, and the flavours that are available

Trouble sleeping is a common complaint among pregnant women.

First trimester ultrasound: delightful and informative

The first ultrasound, which is usually performed eleven to thirteen weeks after your period stops, will establish the date of conception and determine your expected delivery date. You’ll also get to see your future bundle of joy and hear its tiny heart beat for the first time. In addition to its emotional value, the first ultrasound assesses fetal development and detects any anomalies that could hinder proper growth. Skipping this appointment is a bad idea for any expecting mother, regardless of age and number of previous pregnancies.

Vital statistics

Your first ultrasound will confirm that you’re on the right track to bringing a healthy bundle of joy (or several!) into the world. The technician will start by making sure the embryo is successfully implanted in the womb before carefully recording its pulse. Then, he or she will measure each limb — and any formed organs — and compare the results to general growth charts.

Important information about your child’s health can be gleaned from the first ultrasound.

All of the data collected during this appointment will be of great use later on when it comes time to plan your delivery.

Early detection

Many problems can be detected or ruled out by studying the fetus and its environment. An embryo that’s observed in the right place negates the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy, just as a regular heartbeat excludes any potential heart problems. Illnesses like Down’s syndrome and pre-eclampsia can also be caught right away. Should your examination yield any abnormal results, your doctor will reassure you and recommend the best course of action for your health and that of your child.

aren’t always the most appetizing. Why limit yourself when you can prepare an endless array of different purees in the comfort of your own kitchen? Plus, you’ll know that every bite your baby gobbles up will be made from fresh, nutrient-packed ingredients — and a healthy helping of love.

FOOLPROOF METHOD

Boil food. Add water. You’re done! That’s really all there is to it. Feel free to experiment, but make sure you taste test your creations — if you don’t like it, chances are your little one won’t either.

Understanding your child’s motor skill development

Developing motor skills is a critical stage in your baby’s life. When it comes to fostering your growing child’s social and physical abilities, nothing beats hands-on parenting.

The beginning

Your child wasn’t entirely helpless at birth, having acquired certain reflexes while still in the womb. Baby’s fragile, delicate appearance can be attributed to his under-developed muscles, which are constantly evolving to adapt to his new environment. After a few months, he’s able to hold his head up for a few seconds and bend his limbs on his own.

Around seven months, your child will try to sit down on his own. You can lend a hand by showing him how it’s done. A bit later, you’ll notice him lying on his stomach and moving his limbs: that’s an early (and somewhat unsuccessful) attempt at moving around on all fours!

Your unrelenting encouragement is vital to help your child’s motor skills progress.

Spend lots of time showing him the way forward, and he’ll get the hang of crawling in no time. Finally, around eleven months, your child will start trying to stand up — an unmistakable sign that baby’s first steps are just around the corner.

Baby steps

Your child should be able to stand up on his own and start attempting to take a few steps between 12 and 18 months. Always encourage him to learn at his own pace, and don’t worry if you don’t see much progress — he’s probably focusing his efforts on something else, like language or cleanliness. Your pediatrician will identify any true delays in the development of your child’s motor skills and suggest the best course of action.

WITH PERFORMING ARTS BRAMPTON

HYPE

CURATED BY JEMANE KENT

MARCH 3, 2023 - 8PM

HYPE is a talent showcase featuring local artists and dancers alike. Featuring Allydice, Haf n’ haf, Mayne Ishu, CHLZ, HnDFII, Samcherr, Teekee Karlo.

RISING VIBES

CURATED BY TCSPADES

MARCH 11, 2023 - 8PM

Don’t miss this hip hop cabaret featuring the best in emerging local talent. Featuring Alexie, RYE., and TCspades

THE JAY MARTIN COMEDY SERIES

FEATURING SWEET BABY KITA

FEBRUARY 18, 2023 - 8:00PM

The Jay Martin Comedy series returns to LBP Brampton for Black History Month featuring headliner, Sweet Baby Kita! Hosted by The Renaissance Man himself, you never know who’s going to be the next surprise hilarious guest!

Vitamin D is often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin”. This is because it is synthesized in our skin in response to sunlight. The beauty of Vitamin D is that it’s free – a great model for “all things in moderation” too.

There are two main forms of vitamin D: vitamin D2 and vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 is the form that is synthesized in the skin, while vitamin D2 is found in some plant-based foods and supplements.

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health by promoting

the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the diet. It also helps to regulate the immune system and may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, such as colon, breast, and prostate cancer.

Despite the importance of vitamin D, many people are deficient in this essential nutrient. In fact, studies suggest that up to 50% of the global population may have insufficient or deficient levels of vitamin D!

Symptoms of deficiency can vary, including fatigue, depression, cognitive decline and dementia. Bone density loss increases the risk of fractures and falls in older people. Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Why does a deficiency develop? It can be difficult to get enough vitamin D from sunlight, especially during the winter months. Additionally, vitamin D is found in relatively few foods, so it can be challenging to get enough vitamin D from the diet.

Scientific studies have found income, gender and ethnicity differences

in vitamin D status globally. One study looked at the vitamin D status of over 1,000 healthy Japanese adults and found that 40% of women and 26% of men had vitamin D deficiency, and that individuals of non-Japanese ethnicity were more likely to have vitamin D deficiency than those of Japanese ethnicity. A study in the US found that people with higher incomes were more likely to be using supplements, and therefore less likely to suffer deficiencies. Consumer choices and food prices may also be important. Studies have found that consumption of fortified milk and milk products has a major effect on likelihood of deficiency.

If you need to know your vitamin D level, a blood test will determine it, but as the philosopher Voltaire once said, “The best is the enemy of the good.” Getting regular intake of vitamin D should be the goal, not trying to measure daily levels. Make it a habit to get some vitamin D every day. The most effective way is to get sunlight directly on your skin. Spend-

ing 10-15 minutes outside in the sun each day with your arms and legs exposed will help your vitamin D levels, plus sunshine is a “feel good” prescription in general. Be sure to protect your skin with sunscreen if enjoying longer exposure.

But getting outside without layers of clothes can be difficult during the winter months, especially in northern latitudes, so don’t forget you also get vitamin D from certain foods. Include: fatty fish (such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel), egg yolks, and fortified foods (such as milk, orange juice, and cereal).

If you are concerned that the vitamin D in your diet is insufficient, a daily supplement can help. The recommended daily intake of vitamin D varies depending on: age, sex, and other factors, but in general, adults need between 600 and 800 international units (IU) per day.

The upper limit for vitamin D intake is 4,000 IU per day for adults, and it’s important not to exceed this amount unless under medical supervision.

Despite the importance of Vitamin D, many people are deficient in this essential nutrient

W. GIFFORDJONES MD

Peel Regional Police News

Your access to the latest alerts, media releases, crime statistics, podcasts and more.

RACHEL MARY RILEY

rachel@carib101.com

HEALTH & FITNESS

Since the pandemic I have gotten into the habit of taking vitamins that will assist me with weight loss. Some people think you can just take your protein shakes, supplements and think that vitamins won’t assist you. My dear, you need vitamins for your

Magnesium is one of the top vitamins that helps to break down your digestive system. How you take it matters. According to my research, magnesium may be helpful for regulating blood sugar and insulin levels in people who are overweight

A 2013 study found that taking higher amounts of magnesium helps better control insulin and glucose blood levels. Magnesium supplements might be helpful for reducing unpleasant menstrual symp-

Top five must have vitamins for weight loss

toms in women because of its ability to reduce bloating and water retention (5 Vitamins and Minerals to Boost Your Metabolism and Promote Weight Loss, 2020).

Magnesium is an important mineral that your body needs in order to function. It helps you do a variety of important things including produce energy, regulate blood sugar, and cause necessary chemical reactions in the body. Magnesium helps your body conduct nerve impulses, muscle contraction, and normal heart rhythm by playing a role in the transport of calcium and potassium. Your heart, muscles, and kidneys all need magnesium to work properly. The mineral also helps build teeth and bones (5 Vitamins and Minerals to Boost Your Metabolism and Promote Weight Loss, 2020).

Iron: The body needs iron for healthy growth, development, and metabolism. Iron is also vital for correct cell functioning and the creation of some hormones. Iron is essential for carrying oxygen in red blood cells. The red blood cells carry oxygen to and from muscles and tissues in the body. If a person has low iron levels, they may not send enough oxygen to their muscles. Muscles that are low in oxygen cannot burn fat for fuel as well as they should. Low iron also interferes with optimum metabolism

BIOGRAPHICAL DICTIONARY OF

GUYANA

in the body (Vitamins and Minerals That Boost Metabolism, 2018).

Vitamin B: The B vitamins play many essential roles in energy metabolism in the body.

The B vitamins include:

• B-12

• Biotin

• Folate

• B-6

• Pantothenic acid or B-5

• Niacin or B-3

• Riboflavin or B-2

• Thiamine or B-1

Deficiency in one of the B vitamins can affect other B vitamins, which can disrupt a person’s metabolism.

• B-12 is essential for the metabolism of proteins and fats

• Trusted source

• It needs B-6 and folate to work correctly

• B-6 also helps metabolize protein

• Thiamine helps the body metabolize

• Trusted source

• Fat, protein, and carbohydrates

The ability to process fats, proteins, and

carbohydrates is essential. A healthy metabolism ensures that the body uses these nutrients for energy rather than storing them as fat.

People must regularly eat foods that contain B vitamins to meet their daily needs (Vitamins and Minerals That Boost Metabolism, 2018).

Vitamins D: Vitamin D is critical to a healthy system. Your body can get all the vitamin D it needs courtesy of the sun. Yet, most people today spend too much time indoors, or they live in climates where the sun doesn’t always shine.

Getting enough vitamin D from food is difficult, so supplements are often recommended. A 2011 study found that overweight and obese adults taking calcium and vitamin D supplements lost significantly more stomach fat than people not taking any supplements.

Food sources: While the sun is the best source of vitamin D, you can also get this vitamin from food, especially fortified foods (Vitamins and Minerals That Boost Metabolism, 2018).

So, now that you know better, do better. Stock up on vitamins, and watch the pounds drop off.

DESCRIPTION

This dictionary provides profiles of over 1100 people who, in relation to Guyana, have either made an impact, achieved a great deal, or were recognized in their own disciplines. Whether in the fields of sports, science, arts, law, medicine, politics, educa tion, religion, community or social work, entertainment, travel, exploration, academia, or business, this book showcases the profiles of both those prominent and unsung heroes who have left their mark regardless of political stripe, religion, ethnicity, or belief. Such renowned individuals like John Agard, Stephen Campbell, Professor Jan Carew, Arthur Chung, Ken Corsbie, Martin Carter, Fr. Bernard Darke, Dr. B. Doobay, Bishop Randolph George, JOF Haynes, Rohan Kanhai, Sir Lionel Luckhoo, Pandit Ramsaroop Maraj, Sr. Mary Noel Menezes, Dave Martins, HPC Melville, Edgar Mittelholzer , Michael Parris, Yesu Persaud, Rajkumari Singh and over a thousand more can all be found here. Meticulously researched, each profile is objective, precise, and accurate and is presented in good literary form. Indeed, it is a unique and pioneering dictionary that should be the pride of all Guyanese and those with an interest on Guyana.

PRAISE FOR THE BOOK

Lal Balkaran’s Biographical Dictionary of Guyana is an admirable work of devoted scholarship and a signal achievement in nation building He gives a lead in the effort which must never cease to record and give credit to the men and women who have built and moulded Guyana to this point and those who will continue to contribute to its growing strength in the future. - Dr. Ian McDonald - Literary Icon

Highest praise and thanks due to Lal Balkaran for his indefatigable scholarly efforts to produce this monumental work.

- Dr. David Dabydeen – Professor Emeritus, Hon Fellow (Cambridge University)

Lal Balkaran’s Biographical Dictionary of Guyana is an outstanding work of succinct narrations by a Guyanese who also has distinguished himself as writer, videographer, and auditor. This massive encyclopedic work sketches the professional achievements of over 1100 Guyanese and joins Mr. Balkaran’s other publications on Guyana’s history, culture and geography as a testament to his patriotism. I hope this volume will encourage Guyanese from every walk of life to aspire to lofty heights.

- Dr. Walter Edwards – Renowned Professor of Linguistics, Wayne State University

Lal Balkaran’s newest book, Biographical Dictionary of Guyana, is not only useful but essential to our knowledge of the history and culture of Guyana. - Dr. Frank Birbalsingh - Renowned Author and Professor Emeritus of English

LBA Publications, 18 Portsmouth Drive, Scarborough, Ontario M1C 5E1, Canada:

Tel: 416 -451-6075: www.lbapublications.com Email: lalbalkaran@rogers.com

ISBN: 978 -1-7386748 -0-0: 470pp Price: USD$ 65 plus USD$35 air mail postage Pay through PayPal, e-transfer or send a cheque/money order payable to author.

Must-have spring accessories

Elevate your everyday wardrobe and elegant outfits this spring with versatile fashion accessories. Here’s a look at the top trends for 2023.

• Chunky belt. Large, ornate belts are in the spotlight this year. You can easily pair them with pants, skirts, dresses and jackets.

• Chic hats. Create a distinguished look with classic and elegant hats like a fedora, capeline, Panama, or boater.

• Pearl necklace. Short necklaces made of natural or artificial pearls are all the rage this season. Depending on your outfit, you can opt for classic white or pastel-coloured ones.

• Silk scarf. When worn around the neck instead of a tie, a patterned silk scarf gives off a refined yet bohemian look.

• Elegant gloves. Gloves aren’t just for keeping your hands warm. Don a pair of leather, satin or velvet gloves to add character to your spring looks.

• Graphic glasses. Protect your eyes from the sun’s powerful UV rays with futuristic, trendy sunglasses.

• Small crossbody bag. This small but mighty accessory is perfect when you only need to carry the essentials.

• Oversized tote. Ideal for shopping or travelling, an oversized tote bag is a fashion must-have.

• Flat sandals. Flip flops and other open-toe, heel-less shoes are great for letting your feet breathe while showing off your pedicure.

Visit your local stores to discover trendy fashion accessories to vary your spring looks.

Men’s spring fashion: ready to elevate your wardrobe?

Winter is finally coming to an end! The warmer weather often brings a desire to try something new. Does your wardrobe need an update? Are you wondering what styles and fashion trends are in for spring 2023? Here are some ideas to inspire you.

Casual suit

Made of soft, neutral-coloured, lightweight fabrics, casual suits are stylish without being stiff. The wider trouser leg creates a refined yet slightly rebellious look, especially if you swap the belt for a cord. Complete the outfit with a loose, unstructured jacket to make a chic yet relaxed appearance.

Distressed denim

Shirts, jackets and jeans made from deliberately distressed denim — faded, frayed or ripped — are back in full force

this year. Do you want to exude masculine energy but like unconventional fashion? This trend is perfect for you.

Terry cloth

This absorbent material isn’t just for towels and robes. During the pandemic, designers discovered terry cloth (ideally recycled) is an ultra-comfortable material. Dare to try it for pants or shirts?

Quirky cowboy

This fun trend consists of wearing stereotypical cowboy clothes and accessories in bold, bright colours with sequins. Get ready to turn heads!

Visit your local menswear store to create flattering spring outfits. Don’t be afraid to ask a stylist for personalized advice.

Women’s fashion 4 trends to watch in spring 2023

Spring is the perfect time to embrace new styles. Do you need some inspiration to put together outfits that express your personality? Check out what’s making a buzz in women’s fashion in 2023.

1. Oversized blazers. Wearing a stylish blazer can instantly make you feel powerful and confident — even more so if it’s oversized. This spring, pair your oversized blazer with well-fitting jeans or dress pants for a stylish outfit that commands respect.

2. Baggy jeans. Wide-legged, baggy jeans are “in” this spring. They’re the exact opposite of skinny jeans, which have reigned supreme for many years. Comfor-

table and practical, baggy jeans are the ultimate in casual chic.

3. Long skirts. Cool spring temperatures mean that miniskirts must wait! As you wait for the mercury to rise, stock up on extra-long, ankle-length and floor-length dresses – but watch your step!

4. Leather jackets. You can’t go wrong with a rugged leather jacket in a tasteful cut. Classic black is a safe bet, but why not try burgundy for something more daring? Ready to shop for a new spring ensemble? Lace up some comfortable shoes and visit your local clothing shops to find some fashion gems.

There’s nothing wrong with shows that touch on real-life issues

SYDNEE WALCOTT

sydnee@carib101.com

VARIETY CORNER

While movies and television shows are mainly supposed to entertain people and be an escape from reality, there’s nothing wrong with having some which touch on

childhood.

Airing episodes from 2001 until 2005, The Proud Family is one of the few shows that featured Black representation.

As a person of color, I enjoyed watching the show because of its Black representation and also for its comedy.

The Proud Family was also one of those shows I would watch along with one of my parents as they would recognize some of the voice-actors, and because they also featured songs my parents knew from their childhood.

However, the show isn’t only known for its Black representation and comedic moments.

The Proud Family was also ahead of its time by touching on many real-life issues. Some of these issues include having an understanding of knowing who to

STEVEN KASZAB

steven@carib101.com

INSIGHT TO SOCIETY

call a friend, racism, sexism, homophobia, and Islamophobia.

In 2022, the show came back under the name, The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder.

Just like its predecessor, the revival continues to feature its comedic moments, old-school songs, and touch on social issues.

The second season aired on Disney+ on February 1st, and some viewers weren’t fond of the most recent season.

According to reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, the reboot’s second season received bad audience reviews as many found the show to be “too woke” and shouldn’t be for children for that reason.

The second season saw a heavy focus on addressing social issues. Some episodes addressed colorism, preferenc-

es, slavery, and America’s racist history. The Proud Family was always known for being woke, and there’s nothing wrong with that.

Just because a show is mainly for a young audience, it doesn’t mean that it can’t teach children about tough topics. We have shows such as The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, That’s So Raven, Static Shock, and Sesame Street that also address social issues.

It’s great to have shows that can help us escape from reality at times, but there are times when we need to get in touch with reality and develop an understanding of issues that need to be acknowledged and addressed.

Society’s future is based upon a false economy

and public debt that hangs over us like the sword of Damocles. Our eyes are wide shut, and our ears covered by the headphones we paid $350.00 for with our credit cards. Like the three monkeys of old, not hearing, seeing or speaking about DEBT.

Nations whose populations live in poverty, and 2nd-3rd nation status nations trying to build their economies so they can live the Kardashian lives, like the “national Jones” of the west and east alike. National politics disallow politicians from considering their budgets and debt levels. It’s all about staying in power, so spending must continue so that their allies, supporters in the middle-upper classes, continue to support them.

Our personal lives present people

with two things in their hands: electronic devices and credit cards. Since one’s feelings have become so important during these difficult days, denying oneself is often never an issue, unless credit limits have been reached. Credit denial, and interest rate increases follow. We use credit cards to pay for gas, so we can go to work, providing an income that will dwindle as one’s bills are partially paid for, never paying all. Things will be better next month, you tell yourself.

Our need for personal emotional uplifting allows us to continue to pay less cash, more credit. Not that many people save their income. Society’s future is based upon a false economy where most things are paid for with borrowed money.

What will happen when the credit roller coaster stops abruptly? Perhaps recession and possible national or international depression?

When will governments return to balanced budgets? Can private citizens receive a high school economics lesson regarding personal budgets, and how to save for a rainy day?

Power in relation to finance is a full scope issue. So long as we have the power to choose for others, or ourselves regarding finances both governments and private individuals are in peril, especially if both public and private sectors show no accountability or transparency regarding what, why and how much is spent on our behalf.

How to maintain friendships (even when you’re apart)

If you’re unable to see your friends in person, either because you live in different places or you need to keep your distance during the pandemic, there are plenty of ways to ensure they remain close.

Connect with them

Thanks to technology, it’s easy to keep in touch with your friends. You can chat on the phone, exchange text messages, hop

If you have a teenager, they likely spend time on social networking sites like Facebook, Flickr, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. But do they know the risks? While social media networks help kids keep in touch with friends, it can also expose them to people who intend to hurt them.

From cyberbullying to sextortion and data breaches to inappropriate content, there’s a lot to be wary of on the

on a video call or play games together online. If you want to do something special, consider mailing your friend a handwritten letter and including a few photos of the two of you.

Show that you care

Even if you can’t see each other in person, or as often as you’d like, there are things you can do to maintain strong friendships.

In particular, doing the following will let your friends know you va¬lue them:

• Spend distraction-free time with them

• Communicate openly and listen deeply

• Provide encouragement

• Ask for feedback

• Set and respect boundaries

Social media: tips to keep your teen safe

internet. That’s why it’s important to talk to your teen about how to use social media safely and respon¬sibly. Here are a few ground rules you should es¬tablish:

• Don’t share personal information like your address, phone number or date of birth

• Don’t post photos or videos of another person on social media without their consent

• Don’t go alone (or without an adult) to meet someone you meet online

• Don’t send intimate pictures of yourself to anyone, even if you trust the person

Remind your teen that once words and photos are shared online, they may be impossible to delete and easily misused. Even if a post doesn’t seem like a problem now, many employers use social media to

• Express your appreciation

• Resolve disagreements and apologize if feelings are hurt

• Offer your help when needed

• Be honest but kind

Remember, it’s important to cherish your friends. They’ll be there to support you through the hard times and make the good times more meaningful.

screen candidates. Explain to your teen that they could miss out on their future dream job because of an inappropriate comment or video they post today.

Finally, here’s a tip to help reinforce the notion with your teen that anyone can see what they post online. Before they send or share anything on social media, encourage your teen to ask themself this question: “Would I feel comfortable if my teacher or grandmother saw this?”

SIMONE SMITH

simone@carib101.com HUMAN

I will never forget the first time that I met M. He had asked me to meet him at a gym that he was training at down in the North York area. I remember being excited getting ready to go down there. I wasn’t sure why, but when I looked at the picture on LinkedIn, I was quickly made aware.

That skin… Those lips… Famous last words; shake my head.

When I arrived at the gym, I parked the car, and gave him a call as he had instructed. “I’m here!”

“Amazing! I am coming out to get you. Are you dressed to work out?”

It wasn’t until right then that I realized that he had an accent. Was he American? Something about the slight

twang in his voice made me nostalgic.

“I am dressed. I am coming in. Do I have to say anything to the person at the front desk?”

“Nah! I am coming out to get you.” I turned off the car and grabbed my gym bag. Naturally, I had put on my tightest pair of tights, and one of my favourite crop tops. Not exactly a workout outfit, but I had no problem getting sweaty in this.

I made my way towards the door, opened it up, and stepped inside. The gym was buzzing with noise; weights clanging, music playing, people chatting loudly. I looked around for M, but didn’t see him.

“Hey Simone!” I turned around and standing in front of me was that handsome face, the beautiful skin, and those big, beautiful lips, on the shortest man I had ever seen. I tried not to make a face, but I don’t know if I held my surprise. The picture on LinkedIn must have been taken from a low angle, because he did not look short in the picture. He could not be more than 4’2. He actually was 4’2. Imagine how

An alternative approach to examining and studying Caribbean history part II

history.

DESMOND BOLLERS

desmond@carib101.com

The narrative appears to suggest that the Tainos and Kalinago simply wilted and capitulated without a fight. The names of their leaders are not well known, and the details of their courageous struggles are not fully described in the history books. The same holds true for the leaders of the enslaved Africans. Instead, we are regaled with tales of the exploits of: Henry Morgan, Walter Raleigh, Ponce De Leon, Juan Esquivel, D’Esnambuc or various French and Dutch pirates, privateers or administrators. The contemporary history of the Caribbean treats Native Americans and Africans almost akin to inanimate objects that are acted upon rather than actors in their own right.

As such, what is presented as 'Caribbean History' could more appropriately be titled 'History of Europeans in the Caribbean.'

We must correct this regrettable state of affairs by bringing the peoples of the Caribbean to centre stage of the region’s history instead of depicting them as bit players on the sidelines of their own story as has been the case so far, thereby installing them into their rightful place in

M

it looked with me standing in front of him at 5’9.

“Hey Simone!” I realized that I had not responded.

“Hello M. Nice to meet you.” I couldn’t stop staring at the top of his head.

“You ready for a workout. I want to show you what I can do for you, and maybe you can help me. You are here to help aren’t you,” he said with a smirk?

I had to laugh. “Direct me to the change room, and I will be right out to help you help me.”

“Head to the back of the gym. The women's locker room is on the lefthand side. I will be waiting for you.”

I made my way back smiling to myself. What was this little man going to show me? I was pretty athletic and had been working out for a few years. As I changed my clothes, I reflected on the fact that I had assumed he was tall. That was my own fault. I couldn’t blame him for his height. Plus, this was business. Nothing else. I looked in the mir-

ror; “Alright Simone. Let’s do this.”

OMG! The workout with M nearly killed me. He showed me a few simple things, and honestly it nearly killed me. After 45 minutes he had me sweating and on the floor.

“Wow M! That was amazing. I was here thinking that I was in shape. You definitely showed me,” I said laughing.

“Hey, don’t let my size fool you. I have made bigger men than you cry after working out with me. Go ahead and shower up. Let’s grab something to eat. Put some fuel in your body.”

“Nothing would be better.” M helped me off the floor and I headed back into the change room to get ready.

Well, that was certainly interesting. He had completely caught me off guard. That would not be the first or last time M did that.

Things were about to get interesting, and not in a good way…

Whereas in the Spanishspeaking and French-speaking Caribbean, Native Americans, maroons and enslaved Africans who led revolts against European oppression are sometimes honoured with statues, which is rarely the case in the Englishspeaking countries. For example, in Puerto Rico there are statues of Native American freedom fighters, in Cuba and the Dominican Republic there are statues of both Native American and African freedom fighters, and in Guadeloupe and the (formerly Danish) Virgin Islands there are statues of African freedom fighters.

Students in the Caribbean could benefit from being more informed about the persons who fought for their freedom as individuals, or who sought to obtain freedom for entire groups of the oppressed, or enslaved and who so often gave their very lives to bring this abominable institution to an end. Learning of their resolute bravery is a first step towards granting them the recognition they deserve as Caribbean heroes.

So, when studying our history, we need to break out of the mental silos imposed on us by our colonial past and appreciate that regardless of language we, the peoples of the Caribbean, all share the same history of resistance to oppression and exploitation. Arriving at this conclusion will enable us to transcend the barriers that currently separate us from each other.

Things were about to get interesting, and not in a good way; The story behind

Montrose Cannabis: Breaking the stereotypes associated with creating a boutique atmosphere for cannabis

This experience afforded him the foresight to be mindful and conscious of a great many things beyond just selling cannabis. This fact alone puts him and Montrose Cannabis far ahead of most other licensed retailers. Paired with Nick’s

enthusiasm to put his fingerprint on every aspect of his business has led to a truly unique retail experience.

Starting from before cannabis was legal in Pickering, he knew his political awareness would be critical to the viability of Montrose. The weather of politics can shift and change dramatically affecting even well-established industries much less an entirely new one such as cannabis. He knew it would require collaboration and assurances from the local municipal government to ensure a proper environment in order to thrive. Once given the green light from Pickering Mayor Kevin Ashe, Montrose Cannabis was born almost immediately.

From interior layout design to general contracting, to staff training, to product purchasing, it has all been purposefully thought out with a clear end goal, the best possible customer experience. When speaking with Nick it was easy to see that he was breaking the stereotypes associated with creating a boutique atmosphere for cannabis.

Montrose has business core values of providing fresh products, having eco conscious suppliers, giving tailored customer service and providing CBD as therapy. The retail experience is easily recog-

Would you be willing to jump into frigid waters in order to protect something you cherish? British-born Lewis Pugh is willing. He’s dived into frigid Arctic waters and has long-distance-swum in all the world’s oceans to show how much he cares about protecting the world’s maritime heritage, and that includes slushy Antarctic and Arctic waters. On June 5, 2015, we celebrate World Environment Day with a salute to Pugh, a UNEP Goodwill Ambassador who just this past year pulled off his Seven Swims in the Seven Seas campaign to raise awareness about the need to protect our ocean resources.

Helping to protect the environment also means thinking about what goes into your lunch box. That’s right; you can make eco-friendly lunches that will enable you to reduce the amount of garbage you produce.

Always opt for reusable items

An eco-friendly lunch starts with a reusable lunch box — no more paper or plastic bags that just end up in the recycling bin or garbage can every day. This

nized as being elevated. Nick’s high involvement and close connections to licensed producers allows him to have a very curated inventory of products to service his clientele. Customers are rewarded with products and services unavailable elsewhere. When I was given a peek at the elaborate calculations used to determine how much of each product ends up on the shelves, I realized fresh product is never in question.

The second part of the Montrose sales strategy goes further than just selling cannabis in store by creating a community beyond its doors. Consciously forecasting current and future trends identified that ecommerce was an undeniable revenue stream. The majority of existing licensed retailers merely use their online presence for another point of sale and space to advertise. Montrose has an e-commerce award winning website adept at allowing customers to quickly locate their desires but does more by having a highly integrated online presence.

Montrose TV is a branch of the company that creates lifestyle online content promoting members of the community along with associated producers. All parties come out as winners; Montrose gets customers driven to visit the store after

Swimming the world’s oceans

According to UNEP, less than three per cent of the world’s oceans are protected from over-exploitation of marine wildlife and environmental degradation. Pugh, who is also a marine lawyer, aims to promote the UN’s goal of having up to ten per cent of oceans set aside as Marine Protected Areas. In 2014, as he swam the Adriatic, Mediterranean, Red, Black, Aegean, Arabian and North Seas, Pugh says he saw few dolphins, sharks and whales. He has seen with his own eyes that our oceans are over-fished and full of pollutants and garbage.

“MPAs help us re-build our fish

stocks,” says Pugh. “And they increase resilience to environmental changes. They’re also good for the world economy, because they support food security.” Who could argue with that? Well, it’s actually quite hard for some nation states to enact legislation to create MPAs without taking a short-term hit to their fishing industry. But Pugh hopes that his publicity campaigns will continue to pave the way for bold policy makers to take the risk and do the right thing.

Eco-friendly lunches

rule also applies to dishes and all the other contents of the lunch box. In other words, plastic dishes, metal utensils, a reusable coffee cup and a cloth napkin should become part of your everyday life.

Make the right choices at the grocery store

Try to avoid products sold in individual portions, such as small yogurts and juices, because they produce more

garbage. Instead, opt for bulk foods and large formats. That way you can prepare portions that are perfect for your appetite and store them in reusable containers. Buying local foods and seasonal fruits and vegetables also helps protect the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions generated by transporting food over long distances.

Put your garbage can on a diet

To be truly eco-friendly, your lunch

viewing the website, producers get their products promoted to a very receptive demographic, and the community wins by feeling more connected to the industry along with each other. Even further than this Nick has taken the initiative to bring more of the community together by hosting many different types of events like business summits, new product launches or Paint & Vape nights within his retail space.

The more I spoke with Nick, the more similarities between us became evident. Similar upbringings, interests and past experiences made it extremely easy to relate both professionally and personally. Both of us being of Caribbean descent made certain influences within Montrose and its business philosophy obvious, but when I asked about the legacy he wanted to create, his answer was uniquely novel. “Bringing a legalized framework across the Caribbean islands is a passion project I’m focused on. Let’s bring out the best of our people in a new industry.” Giving back to the community that has given us all so much is a testament to the type of person Nick is and what we should all emulate from Montrose Cannabis.

should only generate a tiny amount of garbage. Assess your needs in order to avoid wasting food, and recycle and compost whenever possible. Be sure to take back returnable containers as well. Do you make eco-friendly lunches? You can help the environment even more by encouraging others to do the same.

Are you familiar with organic gardening methods?

If you’re committed to protecting the environment, then you’re probably doing everything you can to reduce pollution, waste and garbage. You may already be carpooling, taking quick showers and choosing reusable shopping bags, too. But have you thought about applying this philosophy in your yard? Some gardening practices encourage waste, while others are harmful to the environment. Here are some tips to help you to garden

in an environmentally friendly way.

Better water management

Did you know that more than half of the water used for watering lawns and gardens is either lost as runoff from overwatering or through evaporation?

To avoid such waste, ensure that you only give your lawn the amount of water it needs, and be sure to water early in the morning to avoid evaporation loss.

Collect rainwater and select plants that don’t need much watering. Cover the soil with a layer of organic mulch to retain moisture longer.

Enrich the soil

Avoid using pesticides and chemical fertilizers, as they are harmful to the environment and to the health of humans and animals. Use compost and organic fertilizers to enrich the soil.

Organic gardening also means banning decorative rocks and geotextile membranes, which compromise the exchange of gasses between the air and the soil. Switch off any lights that light up your yard unnecessarily at night, and leave grass clippings on the lawn rather than sending them to the landfill with your garbage. So, is your garden green?

How to choose the best toys for your dog

It’s no secret that dogs love to play with toys. In fact, dogs with access to a variety of toys are less likely to develop behavioural issues. If you don’t know which type your dog will prefer, use their playing style to guide you.

If they’re treat oriented Toys that can be stuffed with kibble or treats are great for dogs that live for snacks. Some of these require that your dog solve a puzzle to get what’s inside, which is ideal if your pooch could use some mental stimulation.

If they want comfort

Plush toys, with or without squeakers, are a hit with many dogs. Some pups carry them around and cuddle with them for comfort. Others shake and chew on them to release pent-up energy.

If they like to run Balls, discs and other retrieving toys are great for dogs that love to run and play fetch.

If they like to pull Ropes and rubber tug toys are great for dogs that enjoy a round of tug of war with either you or another dog.

No matter what style of play your dog prefers, keep an eye on their toys, and be sure to replace them when they get damaged.

Top tips for dealing with jealous dogs

Does your dog growl when another dog or person walks by? Or perhaps your pooch insistently tries to get your attention when you’re doing something else? If so, your pup may be exhibiting signs of jealousy. Here are some tips for dealing with a jealous dog.

• Ignore unwanted behaviour. Don’t react when your dog barks, growls, paws at you or otherwise shows signs of jealousy. If they exhibit this behaviour while sitting on or near you, calmly remove them from the immediate area.

• Reward good behaviour. Reward your dog with treats and attention only when they’re calm and relaxed. This will reinforce the idea that this is how you want them to behave.

• Review training exercises. If obedience classes are a distant memory, practise basic directions like sit, stay and come. This will reinforce your role as alpha, and you can use these commands when your

dog is displaying unacceptable behaviour.

• Include newcomers in activities. If your dog’s behaviour springs from a new person entering their life, make sure that your pooch becomes acclimatized to the newcomer’s presence. Bring a new baby on walks or have your new partner practise commands with your pup. This will help your dog understand that the unfamiliar person is now part of their pack.

If your dog becomes aggressive or their behaviour is affecting their health or safety, be sure to enlist the help of a professional dog trainer.

A tarantula can be a great pet for the right person. If these large and hairy spiders fascinate you, here’s what you need to know before adopting one.

They don’t like to cuddle

Some tarantulas have urticating hairs that cause irritation and itching. Though they’re usually docile creatures, tarantulas scare easily. When they feel threatened, they may bite or even pull out some of those hairs to fling at you.

They have specific enclosure needs

There are two types of tarantula, and each requires its own kind of enclosure. Arboreal species need a tall space with branches, twigs and other structures to climb. Terrestrial types thrive in smaller terrariums with lots of substrate to hide in.

They eat live insects

Tarantulas are insectivores. Be sure to provide them with a steady supply of crickets and other insects. Never feed ta-

What to do if your pet goes missing

Up to 10 million pets go missing in North America every year. While you can hope that your cat or dog won’t be one of them, it’s important to know what to do if it does happen. Here are some steps you can take to safely bring home a lost pet.

• Notify the right people. Contact local veterinary clinics, animal shelters, rescue groups and animal control centres. Provide them with a description of your pet, the location where they were last seen and a recent photo.

• Make posters. Include your pet’s photo, name and breed as well as your phone number and any other relevant information. Post your notices on public bulletin boards at the library, community centre and grocery stores, and on utility poles in your neighbourhood. It’s also a good idea to share your poster on social media networks and groups.

• Canvas the area. Walk around your neighbourhood calling your pet’s name and any phrases you typically use to call them. Knock on doors and ask your neighbours if they’ve seen

rantulas anything you catch in your garden. Backyard critters can be contaminated with chemicals and other things that may be harmful to your spider.

As with many other types of pets, adopting a tarantula involves a long-term commitment. Some have been known to live for more than 20 years in captivity, so be prepared to care for your spider over the long haul.

your pet. Leave them with copies of your poster if they haven’t. Search a few times a day. Your pet could be scared and may not respond to your calls right away.

Don’t give up! Many pets are reunited with their owners weeks or even months after they go missing.

MAKE SURE THEY CARRY IDENTIFICATION

Pets that wear ID tags are more likely to be returned than those that don’t. Make sure your pet wears a tag that includes their name and your current phone number. In addition, have a veterinarian implant a microchip in your pet. This type of ID can be detected with a scanner and has a unique number that’s linked to your pet’s information.

Adopting a tarantula: what you need to know

Picture a stream. You can stop the flow by building a dam. The stream before the dam will swell while the other side will fall. As the swell continues, the dam will collapse under pressure. The resulting flow will be turbulent. Rising interest rates are like a dam that inhibits the natural flow of buyers into the marketplace. It’s an artificial solution to a bigger problem. When interest rates decrease, the dam will crack, and the market will explode. The answer is to boost immigration.

Between 2023 to 2025, the Canadian government plans to welcome half a million permanent residents. As a result, we need to build more homes. To keep up with the demand, we have to add approximately 200,000 new homes in 2023 and 2024. Currently, there are around 100,000 new homes being built across Canada yearly. The swell is growing rapidly.

The GTA is a city of ethnic diversity. Many immigrants want to live there, but the infrastructures are not in place to handle the influx. We cannot build enough accommodations to offset the flow. As a result, house prices will continue to surge.

Increased immigration is not the only reason for the drastic climb in house prices. Policies such as exclusionary zoning, heritage designations and high development charges slows growth. When other factors such as supply chain issues and lack

Real estate forecast

of skilled labour, are added, housing becomes expensive.

Usually about 10% of the current resale home stock is from senior citizens. Seniors are choosing to stay at home instead of selling and moving to retirement residence. Many seniors are taking reverse mortgages, where they can live at home and withdraw equity to supplement their income. This trend creates more shortages and as a result there is upward pressure on housing.

Jason Mercer, chief market analyst for The Toronto and Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) said, “It would be a year of two halves in 2023. The first half will feel similar to the fall of 2022 due to lingering effects of higher borrowing costs and related economic uncertainty. However, recent polling by Ipsos suggests buying intentions are edging up. The second half of 2023 should be characterized by an increase in demand for ownership housing supported by the lower mortgage rates, a relative resilient labour market, and record immigration.”

It is estimated that over the past year, one of every three homes sold in the GTA are bought by investors. This trend will continue because investors are benefitting from high rent and surging prices. As a result, the stock available for other buyers are depleted. Lack of adequate supply will cause prices to increase which in turn benefit investors and homeowners.

Bidding wars are resurging, and affordable homes are selling above market value. Buyers have a strong appetite for resale homes that are renovated. Homes with rental potential are more desirable. When there are multiple offers, sellers will choose a firm offer with strong deposits. Buyers should do their due diligence, such as obtaining a pre-approval before purchase.

There are buying opportunities available. Look for homes that are sitting on the market for over a month. You can negotiate the price down. Always make your offer subject to obtaining appropriate financing and inspection. When buying a home, first choose the location, then the type and style of home and finally the upgrades. I represented some buyers who had two homes to choose from. One was a semi-detached, 5 days on the market and nicely upgraded. The other was a fully detached that had less upgrades and was on the market for 35 days. They were both priced at $799,000. The semi-detached had 10 offers and sold for $900,000. My clients bought the detached for $750,000. With some upgrades over time, they are ahead because they bought a detached home for

far less than that semi-detached sold for.

If you are buying a home, it is better to buy in the first half of 2023. Go short term on interest rates. Once the rates drop, you can lock it in. If you are planning on selling your home, then re-evaluate the reasons you want to sell. Instead of disposing of your current home to buy another, it is better to refinance it and use the equity as the downpayment on the other one. You can then collect rent from one of the homes.

Homes in the GTA are becoming increasingly expensive. Over the long term, it’s a great investment. Prices will continue to climb. Own as much real estate as possible. It’s better than mutual funds and the good thing is, you can live in it or collect rent from it. It’s a win-win.

5 interior design tips to make your windows look bigger How

to paint upholstery

Do you have an old chair or couch lying around with outdated upholstery? Don’t throw it away! Paint it instead. Here’s a short guide on how to give your furniture a new life.

Choose the right paint

Although you can purchase fabric paint specifically designed for painting furniture, latex and acrylic paint also work. However, you must use a fabric or textile medium. Use a ratio of one part paint, one part fabric medium and two parts water.

Prepare the fabric

Vacuum all the nooks and crannies in the furniture to eliminate dust and debris. Spot clean stains with water and a little dish detergent and let dry. Then, tape around the chair or sofa legs, including decorative accents you don’t want to cover in paint.

Next, use a spray bottle to wet the fabric. It doesn’t need to be soaking wet, just

damp. That’ll help the first coat of paint soak into the fabric.

Apply the paint

Use a wide paintbrush or sprayer to apply the first coat of paint while the fabric is still damp. Use a smaller paintbrush to reach areas where the fabric folds. Let dry completely. Once dry, sand the fabric with extra fine sandpaper to keep it soft to the touch.

Repeat this process as many times as necessary. The number of coats required depends on the paint colour and the fabric you’re painting. Smooth cotton or poly blends are the easiest to paint, while textured and woven fabrics are more challenging.

Visit a home improvement store and speak with a paint specialist for tips on how to get the best results.

If your home doesn’t have large picture windows, here are a few tips to make your modest windows look larger.

1. Hang the curtain rod strategically. If you want your window to appear taller and broader, install the curtain rod about 10 centimetres above the window trim. Moreover, the curtain rod should extend about 20 centimetres off the window frame on each side. This will trick the eye into thinking the window is bigger than it is.

2. Invest in high-quality drapes. Choose a high-quality fabric made of thick, sturdy material to help hide the line between the wall and the window. Patterned fabrics also draw the eye upwards, making the window look taller.

3. Paint the wall around the window a

3 alternatives to lazy Susans

The lazy Susan is probably one of the most well-known and recognized kitchen cabinet accessories. However, many homeowners complain that it isn’t practical. If you’re remodelling your kitchen, here are three lazy Susan alternatives you may want to consider.

1. Super Susan trays spin independently on

the shelves inside the corner cabinet. You can add up to three trays, depending on your storage needs. This feature eliminates the pole many people hate on a standard lazy Susan, which allows you to store larger items.

2. Magic corner pull-outs are doormounted shelves that swing out of the cor-

ner cabinet. Many models also include back shelves that can be pulled out individually for easy loading and unloading.

3. Corner drawers are the most ergonomic option because you get the most space to store things. However, they’re expensive and can only be included as part of a new build because of their large opening and

dark colour. If the window frame is white, painting your walls white may make it fade into the background. Consider painting the wall surrounding your window a cool, dark colour to make it pop.

4. Put up a large mirror. Hang a large mirror on the wall across from the window to let more light into the room. This will give the illusion of a bigger window.

5. Place low furniture around the window. When decorating your space, place small or low-profile furniture pieces near the window, so the eye is tricked by the scale.

Visit several interior design stores in your area to find suitable drapes for your home. You may also consider ordering custom window coverings for an upscale look.

clearance requirements. Finally, you can also opt to block out the corner completely. Sometimes forfeiting access to the corner creates other benefits, such as getting a larger drawer bank. Consult your contractor to determine the most practical option for your needs.

PUZZLE NO. 782

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.

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 72

WEEK OF FEBRUARY 26 TO MARCH, 2023

The luckiest signs this week: CANCER, LEO AND VIRGO

ARIES

You like that your job gives you stability and financial independence. You may be allowed to travel more often with work. Watch your speed behind the wheel this week.

TAURUS

You’ll have an abundance of great ideas this week. You may constan tly change your plans based on your mood, irritating those around you.

GEMINI

Creativity is born out of chaos. If you’re feeling bogged down, have a second cup of coffee to regain your energy and boost your productivity

CANCER

After going through a period of intense stress, it’s time to take a step back and rest. Once rejuvenated, you’ll experience a new beginning.

LEO

You’ll put in many extra hours at work. You’ll also find time to relax and have fun with your family and friends by participating in fun activities.

VIRGO

You’ll be on cloud nine while on a trip or romantic getaway. You’ll consider the idea of living abroad or going on an expedition.

LIBRA

Change is on the horizon. It may be time to end some toxic friend ships to relieve stress. You’ll take a new approach to life that’s more in line with your aspirations.

SCORPIO

Your emotions are running high this week. Avoid putting yourself in a situation where you must make all the decisions; you could face harsh criticism.

SAGITTARIUS

You’ll have to use your tenacity to set yourself apart at work. You could be allowed to travel and discover new cultures.

CAPRICORN

You’ll stand out in your circle of friends and colleagues. Those around you will offer you a helping hand as you undergo a personal transformation.

AQUARIUS

With many people on spring break, you could have guests over who could behave poorly and make you pick up after them. Hopefully, you’ll manage to have some fun.

PISCES

Your first idea is the right one. Don’t be fooled by people who don’t know you; trust yourself. A protective family member could slow you down.

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FOR SALE HELP WANTED HELP WANTED

LIVE IN CARE GIVER: Available to work. Prefer live in position.

905-240-0271

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Driver must have SUV or Van. Call 647-722-6298 to apply.

APARTMENT FOR RENT: 2 Bedroom Appt $1600 all inclusive available for 1st May No Parking, No Pet, no Smoking, No Drugs. call 416-283-5450

PERSONAL

LOOKING TO CONNECT: Senior Christian lady on ODSP looking to trade frugal recipes and frugal living tips. Email: SisterSuHotelDieu @gmail.com

FOR SALE WORSHIP

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

SALES REPS WANTED

We are in the process of expansion and constantly looking for the best of the best! Dedicated salespeople; people interested in opportunities to help others while also being able to help themselves. For more information, please contact Trish 647-722-6298 or trish@carib101.com

Three ways to improve your credit rating

Do you have a low credit rating? You may have had a few hard knocks, but you can improve your credit standing with a bit of patience and discipline. It won’t change overnight, but it’s important to take control of things right now; your efforts will be well worth it if you want to have a more secure financial future. Here are three tips to get you pointed in the right direction.

1. Pay your bills on time

Get into the habit of paying your bills before the due date. Even if you can only manage the minimum amount due on your credit card this month, make sure you pay it on time. You’re much better off paying the minimum on time than the full balance late.

2. Don’t max out your cards

Don’t push the set limits on your credit cards. Experts believe that you should keep your credit utilization ratio (what you use versus how much you have to use) below 30 percent. This rule applies to each individual card, and to the cumulative debt of all your cards.

3. Limit your applications for credit

Each time you apply for a loan — a line of credit, personal loan, car loan, or credit card — your application appears on your credit rating. Multiple requests can negatively affect your score, as creditors wonder if all your credit queries are hiding a serious financial problem.

Are you wondering if you should go to one of those companies that promise to improve your credit rating? Be careful; Industry Canada’s Office of Consumer Affairs says that only your creditors themselves have the power to change the information that is recorded in your credit report. One thing you can do is order a copy of your credit report before you apply for a loan to ensure there are no errors. To do that, all you have to do is contact one of the Canadian credit bureaus, either Equifax (www. equifax.ca) or TransUnion (www.transunion.ca).

How to make your money grow

If you have a stable budget and hardly any debt, this is the right time to start some kind of deliberate savings plan. Don’t wait a minute longer; the sooner you start, the sooner you’ll see your savings grow.

You don’t need to have a lot of money to begin saving. You can get going by opening a tax free savings account and depositing any amount you’d like to start with. You can deposit up to $5,500 annually in a TFSA; any investment income it generates is tax free. Even cash withdrawals won’t be taxed. The TFSA is a great tool to meet and

The Canadian Home Buyers’ Plan can help you purchase your first home. Since 1992, the year of its creation, the HBP has helped many Canadians to do just that. Are you interested in benefiting from this program? Here’s what you should know.

To take advantage of the program, you must already have money placed in a registered retirement savings plan. The HBP allows you to withdraw up to $25,000 per person from your RRSP to purchase or build a home in Canada. Several types of homes

even exceed your financial goals.

Another great way to start saving is to open a registered retirement savings plan. There are many eligible investments, and the interest rates are better than with regular savings accounts. Your contributions are tax deductible, and your gains are tax free until you withdraw them. Investing in an RRSP is recommended by financial experts as one of the most effective financial strategies for retirement planning.

A representative of a financial institution can help you determine your investor

Interested in the HBP?

are eligible. In other words, a couple who meets the eligibility requirements may withdraw up to $50,000, tax-free, as capital for their home.

Participants have 15 years to repay the money back into their RRSPs. Each year, the reimbursement must equal at least one-fifteenth of the funds withdrawn. If you wish, you can choose to repay the total amount faster. One way or another, the amount used to repay the HBP cannot be used as a deduction on your tax return. If

profile. This involves deciding how to spread your precious money among high- and lowrisk savings and investment tools. Once you have a better idea of your profile, you can follow an action plan that is tailored to your personal circumstances. On top of a TFSA and RRSPs, you may decide to buy some government savings bonds, guaranteed investment certificates issued by banks, mutual funds, stocks, and other financial products designed to give you worthwhile returns.

you’re unable to repay the required annual amount — in part or in full — it will be treated as income on your tax return.

To learn more about the Home Buyer’s Plan, visit the Service Canada website (www.servicecanada.gc.ca) or the Canada Revenue Agency (www.cra-arc.gc.ca). You could also make an appointment with a representative of your financial institution to find out more about your home-buying options.

Do your teenagers know how to manage money?

As part of a recent study on general education levels of teenagers around the world, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development tested 29,000 15-year-olds on their financial literacy. The OECD asked teens from 18 different countries to answer a series of questions that would evaluate their grasp of basic money management skills, including understanding a bank statement, figuring out the long-term cost of a loan, and understanding how insurance works.

The results showed that when it comes to money matters, young North Americans fall mid-range compared to

their peers from other countries. This is particularly troubling in light of the fact that young people are going into debt sooner and in greater numbers in order to pay for further education. About one student in seven who participated in the test was unable to make even simple decisions concerning expenditures.

A few tips for parents

Here are four ways to improve your children’s knowledge of personal finances.

• Explain the difference between gross and net salaries, as well as paycheque

deductions.

• Teach them to develop a healthy relationship with money through open and honest conversations about personal finances.

• Encourage them to start managing their own money when they’re mature enough.

• Suggest they manage the budget of an upcoming activity or a fictitious project. You could ask them to budget the next trip to the grocery store, a family vacation, or expenses related to a first apartment.

The easiest way to clean your car’s upholstery

Cars can get messy, especially if you have kids and pets. The good news is that there are tried and true methods of removing stains and cleaning your car’s upholstery. Here are a few.

Stains

Try this homemade solution to remove stains:

• 2 cups water

• 1 cup vinegar

• 1 tablespoon dish soap

Mix the ingredients in a spray bottle and apply them to the stains. Let the solution sit for about 15 minutes, then wipe it clean with a wet cloth. You can also try commercial spot-removing solutions available at your local automotive shop.

Pet hair

If vacuuming doesn’t remove all the pet hair in your car, here’s a simple and inexpensive solution. Use a rubber-dipped glove to brush away the fur with your hand. The hair sticks to the glove, and your upholstery will be fur-free.

Smells

Eliminate nasty smells by mixing 1 cup of baking soda with 4 or 5 drops of essential oil such as lavender or ylang-ylang. Put the mixture in a sealed plastic bag or glass jar for a day. Then shake up the baking powder and sprinkle it on the floor. After about 20 minutes, vacuum up the powder. The fresh scent will remain for days.

How to jumpstart your car

Knowing how to jumpstart a car is something every vehicle owner should know how to do. Jumpstarting a car isn’t hard if you have a set of jumper cables. Here’s what to do.

• Pull both cars close enough to each ot¬her to connect the jumper cables. Set the parking brakes in each vehicle.

• Open the hood of each vehicle and locate the battery. Identify the positive (red) and negative (black) terminals. If they’re overly corroded, clean them with a wire brush.

• Connect the red clamp of the jumper cable to the red positive terminal on the dead battery.

• Connect the red clamp on the other end

of the cable to the working battery.

• Connect the black negative clamp to the black terminal on the working battery.

• Connect the other end of the black clamp to the black terminal on the dead battery or any other unpainted metal surface of the car.

• Start the car with the working battery. Wait a minute or two before starting the vehicle with the dead battery.

If the car starts, let it run for a while to recharge the battery. If your vehicle doesn’t start, you may have an issue with your starter. In this case, you should call your local automotive shop for help.