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3 years ago

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BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms specify that severe societal restrictions must be justified by the severity of the threat and the necessity of the interventions.”
Joel Kettner (MD MSc FRCSC FRCPC)

As I drove around the city this weekend, I couldn’t help but think that our government seems to be setting us up for failure. In his announcement about the lockdown, Premier Ford noted that people should not panic buy. What do you think everyone has gone and done? The line ups are around the block, shelves are emptying again, and people are panicking.

We are now entering the second lockdown of the year. Now, at the beginning of this pandemic, there was a debate as to whether the lockdown was necessary. Eight months later the verdict is in; lockdowns did very little to save lives, and they were definitely not worth thousands of businesses closing and the severe economic costs. The collateral damage of these lockdowns will inevitably lead to far more deaths worldwide due to the social turmoil it will cause, and the disruptions in medical care and food supplies. I would also like to mention at this point that medical professionals have reported that lockdowns slow the development of herd immunity, which helps a society move past the virus.

Experts are slowly coming out to speak against these rolling lockdowns that are happening globally. Lockdowns are now being viewed as one of the biggest medical and economic blunders of all time. Now, I am not saying that we do nothing, but these heavy-handed policies have done little to actually help those who are vulnerable to the virus. In fact, it has inflicted unnecessary suffering on the global community.

I will say this; there are more people questioning this lockdown and for good reason. Many people were early supporters of lockdowns when fear and panic drowned out data and reason. Now that we are paying more attention to numbers questions are arising. The CDD currently estimated that COVID-19 has a survival rate above 99.9% for people under 65 years old. CDC also estimates that 37 to 187 children die every year from the flu. This year we have lost 105 children from the flu. Yet, we are closing down schools, which go a long way towards limiting the development of herd immunity.

As many of us now, every country has adopted extreme lockdown measures. Sweden for example, acted on scientific advice to handle their COVID-19 spread. They advised their citizens to take sensible social distancing steps, but didn’t close their schools or small businesses. The Swedes are actually in a much better place than us in the Western world. Their actions have made them immune from the second wave, having achieved “herd immunity.” Meanwhile, citizens of lockdown countries remain susceptible to the virus. It is beginning to look like these countries got it right, and we are still getting it wrong.

Experts are making a compelling case that although social distancing is an excellent way for individuals to avoid catching the virus; lockdowns of the economy, and the province simply are prolonging the life of the virus. I had the opportunity to speak with
Dr Joel Kettner, Manitoba’s first Chief Provincial Public Health Officer. I was interested in speaking with him after his interview on CBC radio. In his interview, he made some statements that caught my attention.

“I have never seen anything like this, anything anywhere near like this. I’m not talking about the pandemic, because I’ve seen 30 of them, one every year. It is called influenza. And other respiratory illness viruses, we don’t always know what they are. But I’ve never seen this reaction, and I’m trying to understand why.”

I will say this. Speaking with Dr Kettner is like sitting down with the family doctor you have had for years. Our interview ended up turning into a lecture because he had so much knowledge to share. I hope that you do get an opportunity to watch the interview. He asks the difficult questions, explains why the numbers and the reaction do not add up, and his issues with the PCR test.

Before my interview with Dr. Kettner, I read his article, “A new normal, or new abnormal? Change in direction needed on COVID-19 response.” This gave me an opportunity to see what his stance was on the topic. I have always found it strange that the new Ministers of Health would not consult with the Ministers who have come before them. Our ancestral past tells us that during times of current struggle, we should turn to our elders; those who have come before us, who may know a little more than we do.

In his article, he asked some pertinent questions, ones that I think we should take into consideration. Let’s take a look at some of these questions, and while you are doing so, I want you to come up with some answers for yourself.

What type of new normal do we want?

Do we want the continuation of restriction of commerce, travel, recreation, and social gatherings?

Do we want our children attending virtual and part-time school with forced physical distancing?

Do we want to continue discouraging human interaction and mandating the covering of smiles?

Should we just accept unremitting unemployment and economic hardship – especially for those in our community who are disproportionately affected by any world disaster?

Another aspect of this pandemic that Dr Kettner questions is the accuracy of the PCR testing. For many, the science behind it is very confusing, so during our interview, Dr Kettner took the time to break it down. Some of the Western nation’s leading public health experts are concerned that the standard tests are diagnosing huge numbers of people who may be carrying relatively insignificant amounts of the virus. A review by The Times found that in three sets of testing data that included cycle thresholds, compiled by officials in Massachusetts, New York and Nevada, up to 90% of people testing positive carried barely any virus.

Dr Kettner goes into detail about the cycle threshold. Most tests set the limit at 40, a few at 37. That means that you are positive for the coronavirus if the test process required up to 40 cycles, or 37, to detect the virus. When the thresholds are so high, the test may detect not just live viruses, but also genetic fragments, or leftovers from an infection that poses no particular risk. Any test with a cycle threshold about 35 is too sensitive. Virologists at the University of California believe that a reasonable cut-off would be 30 to 35, or even less.

Get this; C.D.C’s own calculations suggest that it is extremely difficult to detect any live virus in a sample above a threshold of 33 cycles. So if this is the case, what standards are we using to broadcast cases each day, and it leads to the next question; are we using these false positive tests to lockdown our countries?

Since we are talking about cases, let us take a look at the numbers. This is another aspect of the pandemic that Dr Kettner does not understand. He speaks strongly about putting things into perspective. In Manitoba, one per 25,000 Manitobans has died. That is less than 1% of all deaths. 20% of the ICU beds had admissions, and in a typical flu season, the majority of ICU beds are occupied with people who have a variety of viral and bacterial infections. This year, they are using up less than 1% of the ventilators.

Another aspect of this viral infection that we know is that it primarily affects older people. 80% of the deaths in Canada are in people over the age of 85, and are living in personal care homes. Based on Statistics Canada data, for every COVID-19 death, there have been 10 deaths from other causes.

You see this is the thing; we have lost sight of the other common causes of premature death and their pressure on the health system, including heart disease, cancer, chronic lung disease, and other injuries. Dr Kettner believes that instead of focusing on reducing the spread of the virus, there should be risk based analysis that will help health care professionals focus on those who are part of the high risk/vulnerable part of our society. He believes we should allow more freedom for everyday life for those who are at a much lower risk. Dr Kettner has dealt with a pandemic each year for over the last 30 years. I think he might know a thing or two about how to navigate them.

There needs to be clear evidence (which there is not) regarding the benefits of this most recent lockdown. There needs to be a clear reliable model that shows how many additional lives will be saved because of this lockdown. There needs to be policies that are more balanced, practical, tolerable and fair. We, as a community, should have the freedom to make informed decisions about our health.

Regardless, here we are again, going back into another lockdown, and maybe we should not be so forgiving of experts who seem to be okay with destroying people’s livelihoods without strong evidence, without due process, and without consideration to how this is going to affect the world in the future. Time will tell, but COVID-19 might just go down as one of the political world’s biggest, most shamefully overblown, overhyped and irrationally inflated and most flawed responses to a health matter in the world’s history.

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We, as humans are guaranteed certain things in life: stressors, taxes, bills and death are the first thoughts that pop to mind. It is not uncommon that many people find a hard time dealing with these daily life stressors, and at times will find themselves losing control over their lives. Simone Jennifer Smith’s great passion is using the gifts that have been given to her, to help educate her clients on how to live meaningful lives. The Hear to Help Team consists of powerfully motivated individuals, who like Simone, see that there is a need in this world; a need for real connection. As the founder and Director of Hear 2 Help, Simone leads a team that goes out into the community day to day, servicing families with their educational, legal and mental health needs.Her dedication shows in her Toronto Caribbean newspaper articles, and in her role as a host on the TCN TV Network.

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1 Comment

1 Comment

  1. Michael

    November 27, 2020 at 5:30 pm

    Well Said and factual too.

    Reply

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Community News

Timeless music brought to life on stage; Welcome to the Soul Nostalgic Experience

Published

5 days ago

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May 13, 2024

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Photo Credit: Jose Maria Elizalde

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Soul Nostalgic Experience! Tonight, we’re taking a journey back in time to relive the magic of an era that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. Are you ready to feel the groove?”

The audience erupts into cheers and applause as the band launches into a classic soul tune. People start swaying in their seats, unable to resist the infectious beat. A few brave souls even start dancing in the aisles.

Imagine being transported back in time to the golden era of R&B and Soul music, where smooth melodies and infectious rhythms ruled the airwaves. Now, envision this timeless music brought to life on stage with the energy and spectacle of a Las Vegas residency.

That’s precisely what the Soul Nostalgic Experience is all about. As I stepped through the doors, I was greeted by the smooth ambiance of classic R&B tunes mingling with the clinking of glasses and the tantalizing aromas wafting from our kitchen. The atmosphere was electric, alive with the anticipation of what the night had in store.

In the heart of Toronto’s vibrant music scene, there exists a figure who orchestrates brilliance from the shadows. Steve Hollywood, a name whispered among those in the know, is the unseen force behind many of the city’s musical endeavors. Despite his significant contributions, he stays removed from the spotlight, preferring the quiet hum of behind-the-scenes influence. Regardless, his presence remains enigmatic, known only to those privileged enough to collaborate with him. It’s a rare invitation to glimpse into his world, an offer extended to a select few, beckoning them to join the symphony of creativity he meticulously curates.

On Thursday, April 25th, 2024, the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was welcome to the Acqua Supper Club, where the heartbeat of Toronto’s R&B and Soul scene will pulsate throughout the summer. Nestled in the heart of the city, the venue is a sanctuary where men and women will be able to gather for unforgettable evenings of soulful music and culinary delights.

At the helm of this musical journey is none other than DRU, a Juno Award-winning and gold record artist with a visionary passion for bringing back the magic of the 90s and 2000s R&B/Soul era. From timeless classics to contemporary hits, his performance was a journey through the soul, evoking nostalgia and stirring the spirit. Inspired to create something truly special, DRU collaborated with the immensely talented The Recipee Band to craft a show unlike any other. The Recipee Band, comprised of musical virtuosos: Jason Larmond, Otis Williams, Juwayon Clarke, and Jonathan Kerr, bringing over two decades of collective experience to the stage.

Drawing from a diverse range of genres and generations spanning from the 50s to the present, The Recipee Band serves as the backbone of Soul Nostalgic, infusing each performance with their unmatched musicality and passion. Soul Nostalgic isn’t just a concert; it’s a collective of exceptional talent coming together to create an immersive experience that will transport you back in time.

The night brought me through a ray of emotions, from high-energy dancing to electrifying live music, every moment of the show was designed to make you groove and feel good.

As the night unfolded, I found myself immersed in a world where time seemed to stand still, where the troubles of the outside world faded away, and all that mattered was the connection between music, food, and community.

I completely co-sign on this unforgettable journey. On May 30th, 2024, they are sharing this experience with the city again, so get ready to dance, sing along, and relive the magic of an era that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. This is more than just a concert; it’s the Soul Nostalgic Experience.

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Community News

Generational survival: Can our young people survive our generation?

Published

5 days ago

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May 13, 2024

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Photo Credit: Dr Obotdean

BY STEVEN KASZAB

The young people of the day are often criticized for not voting or participating in our electoral and public service efforts. Called bubble wrapped by some, those who attend schools of higher learning face challenges presented to them such as: professors who are not objective but espouse various ideologies of the left or right. Professorial prejudices often place the young student in academic limbo, encouraged to choose their professors preferred political outlook.

Raised to be democratically inclined, our youth often witness the actions of our establishments, which can appear to be very undemocratic. Terms like “Do as we say, not as we do,” hypocritical actions by the administration and police often lead our youth an openness towards misguided ideologies and movements of purported social change.

Our youth are encouraged to insert themselves into local, national and international politics, only to be witness to the horrible events, misinformation and the manipulative nature of global media who present their own interpretation of said events. Media is in fact a business manipulated by corporate and politically friendly owners. So, how can our youth truly believe what is in fact real, truthful, honest and objectively presented?

Our youth will often develop a sense of “Stockholm Syndrome” like attitudes, actions and desires. Desire to change a society that is obviously unacceptable but have an attitude to accept no other message except that which is given by their governments and institutions.

Our youth find the idea of voting in a system that remains the same, changes nothing and has players who all look and act alike to be a waste of time and effort. There will always be bad guys, taxes, raising prices, and diminishing opportunities. One’s outlook can be deflated, filled with nervous tension and even fatalism. War, addiction, premature deaths, abortion, women rights, democracy while supporting and doing business with dictatorships.

To be young, means to create, grow and aspire to positive things. Our national and global experience is seen as the opposite of that approach. There is simply: too much going on, too many people being harmed, too little opportunity, too much misinformation, too much greed to allow our young to develop in a well-balanced, mentally positive manner.

Mental health concerns for not only the youth, but our own as adults challenge us to change our ways, assist each other with an: empathetic, charitable manner, open minds and hearts.

Our young people are our treasure and future hope. If they are screwed up, so too are our future expectations and future goals. We have to continue to work on getting it right.

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Community News

The Black Business and Professional Association (BBPA) scandal: Is there room for corrections and restoration?

Published

5 days ago

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May 13, 2024

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BY MICHAEL THOMAS

After over 40 years of upholding a legacy of integrity and excellence, accusations and allegations of mismanagement of public funds and conflict of interest have raised its ugly head at the Black Business and Professional Association (BBPA).

As I investigated the meat of information surrounding this case it is easy to see why many buzzards are circling this prey. One of the main allegations I have noticed is that BBPA management awarded contracts to companies controlled by the former President and CEO, Nadine Spencer, without appropriate due diligence. Again, if this turns out to be true, an organization that has been in business for four decades must have seen this coming.

If the rules of receiving the funds, or government grants say that you must put out tenders to hire workers, then by all means do so. We have to remember that bad news travels twice the speed of good news.

There is more; on November 5th, 2021, the BBPA’s President at the time, Nadine Spencer became the CEO where she was allegedly paid in the range of $250,000. This was used to make the comparison that a bigger organization was thriftier with their money than BBPA, here is how. As an example, the Executive Director of Tropicana Community Services, a much larger non-profit organization, earned a salary of $163,671 in 2023.

My job in this article is not to throw BBPA under the morality bus, but to shed a bit of light on how as a people we must realize that all eyes are on us. Something I quickly spot is how many mainstream media took the opportunity to jump at this alleged scandal in BBPA, yet, for over four years now Canada has been led off the cliff, and because these same mainstream media folks were paid and funded, they looked the other way.

Do I condone the misuse of public funds? Hell no! If these allegations are proven to be true, should BBPA be held accountable? Hell yes!

That said, I went to BBPA’s website to have a bird’s eye view of what this organization is all about, and after reading I must say I was impressed.

I am hoping that BBPA realizes that to whom much is given, much is required.  An organization that has kept such a sterling reputation over the last four decades need not look only in its rearview mirror, but in blind spots as well.

Misappropriation of funds is no laughing matter regardless of how big or small an organization is, nor is conflict of interest. These are tantamount to having blood stains on white garments. If proven there needs to be public apologies, and most importantly “a complete cleaning of the house.”

The Boards of Directors of the BBPA released a statement on Friday, April 26th, 2024, in response to the call for their resignation in the midst of the allegations of financial mismanagement. The statement was addressed to BBPA members/supporters. It states, “We want you to know that we have been listening to the concerns that have recently been raised. The BBPA has hired independent professionals to undertake the appropriate reviews. The current BBPA Board has and continues to proactively take steps to strengthen governance and compliance practices. We are all dedicated to learning, improving, and continuing to work together through this process. We, as Directors, also want you to know that you can reach out to us any time for a conversation.”

Now in the case of Mr. Harry Jerome’s daughter, when one engages in asking an organization that has upheld her father’s name for four decades to quit using the name. I would like to think that this individual has solid proof of wrongdoing, or if proven wrong is ready to apologize as well, but with all these wolves circling the wagon. I understand her plight.

Starting from a small gathering that honored just six Black Canadian athletes who excelled at that year’s Commonwealth Games in 1983, to an organization that built an endowment fund of close to $600,000, and in the last 24 years the fund has granted over 650 scholarships totaling close to 2.5 million dollars, BBPA has a lot to be proud of.

However, if these allegations are found to be false, I am hoping that the accusing parties will do the right thing and apologize. On the other hand, if BBPA is found to be in the wrong, then the organization should be wise enough to rock the boat and throw those found guilty of tarnishing BBPA’s and Mr. Harry Jerome’s good reputation completely overboard.

According to news sources, BBPA has categorically denied all allegations. Whichever way this cookie crumbles, BBPA, your decision should and must make your people, and the late sprinter Mr. Harry Jerome’s name and family proud.

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