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This day in history: the Morant Bay rebellion began

On this day in Caribbean history, October 11, 1865, The Morant Bay rebellion began with a protest march to the courthouse by hundreds of peasants was led by preacher Paul Bogle in Morant Bay, Jamaica. Some were armed with sticks and stones. The rebellion began after men were shot and killed by the volunteer militia. The protesters attacked and burned the court house and nearby buildings with a total of some 25 people died. Over the next two days, peasants rose up across St. Thomas-in-the-East parish and controlled most of the area.

Paul Bogle was a Jamaican Baptist deacon and activist an is a National Hero of Jamaica. He was a leader of the 1865 Morant Bay protesters, who marched for justice and fair treatment for all the people in Jamaica. After leading the Morant Bay rebellion, Bogle was captured by government troops, tried and convicted by British authorities under martial law, and hanged on 24 October 1865 in the Morant Bay Court House. The Jamaicans were protesting injustice and widespread poverty. Most freedmen were prevented from voting by high poll taxes, and their living conditions had worsened following crop damage by floods, cholera and smallpox epidemics, and a long drought. A few days before, when police tried to arrest a man for disrupting a trial, a fight broke out against them by spectators. Officials had issued a warrant for the arrest of preacher Bogle.

Governor Edward John Eyre declared martial law in the area, ordering in troops to hunt down the rebels. They killed many innocent blacks, including women and children, with an initial death toll of more than 400. Troops arrested more than 300 persons, including Bogle. Many of these were also innocent but were quickly tried and executed under martial law; both men and women were punished by whipping and long sentences. This was the most severe suppression of unrest in the history of the British West Indies. The governor had George William Gordon, a mulatto representative of the parish in the Assembly, arrested in Kingston and brought back to Morant Bay, where he tried the politician under martial law. Gordon was quickly convicted and executed.

The violent suppression and numerous executions generated a fierce debate in England, with some protesting about the unconstitutional actions of the governor John Eyre, and others praising him for his response to a crisis. The rebellion and its suppression remain controversial, and it is frequently debated by specialists in black and colonial studies.

National Weekly October 6, 2016

Recipe: Jamaican Festival and mango salsa

Jamaican Festivals are a stable any Caribbean household. Festivals can be eaten with fish, ackee and saltfish, and other customary Caribbean dishes. Here’s a simple recipe that you can do at home.

What you’ll need:

  • 2¼ cups flour
  • ¾ cup cornmeal
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ – ¾ teaspoons salt
  • 3 Tablespoons or more sugar
  • 2-3 Tablespoons soft butter
  • 1 cup milk or water (adjust water to form soft dough)
  • 1 teaspoon grated nutmeg spice or vanilla extract
  • Oil for deep-frying
Mango Coleslaw
  • 1 cup purple cabbage, sliced
  • 4 cups cabbage, sliced
  • 2 cups mango, thinly sliced
  • ½ medium onion thinly sliced
  • ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups carrots, thinly sliced

What to do:

Mango Salsa

  1. In a large bowl combine the onions, cabbage, purple and green, sliced mango , carrots and red bell pepper.

Festival

  1. In a large bowl mix flour,baking powder, cornmeal, sugar, nutmeg and salt, add butter.
  2. Form a hole in the middle of the dough, add milk, knead dough for about 1 minute to soften.
  3. Divide dough into about 10 equal pieces and set aside for about 10 minutes or more
  4. Shape dough like you would a sausage by rolling with your hands
  5. Place a slit down the side of the dough.
  6. In a large, saucepan pour vegetable oil, until it is at least 3 inches and place on medium heat until oil is 350 degrees.
  7. Fry until golden brown about 7 minutes or more depending on size.
  8. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper napkin.

Miami Mayor visits Haiti in aftermath of Matthew devastation

With a look at some of the top stories making the news today, October th, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida, for CNW 90, I’m Suzette Speaks.

Today’s news is brought to you by Grace Aloe, Aloe Vera Drink, Refreshingly Delicious.

Here’s a look at our top stories:

Tomorrow between 12:30 a.m. and 6 a.m parts of Dania Beach, Lauderhill and Fort Lauderdale will be sprayed for mosquitoes as a precaution following Hurricane Matthew. Weather permitting, the Mosquito Control helicopter will be spraying to guard against mosquitoes breeding in standing water left behind by the recent rain. Officials advise people living in these areas with breathing difficulties to remain indoors.

Miramar Mayor Wayne Messam is inviting city residents to attend his State of the City address on Thursday from 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m. at Miramar Cultural Center. Mayor Messam will discuss achievements and accomplishments of The City of Miramar during the past year, the economic forecast for the City along with updates on capital projects, city services and the direction the City is headed in fiscal year 2017.

Miami Broward Carnival ended yesterday with their annual parade at the Miami Dade County Fairgrounds. Mas Bands filled the park with vibrant colors and themed costumes. Each section took to the stage to put on a show for the judges in order to win the title of “Band of the Year”.

In sports:

Fort Lauderdale Strikers were beaten 3-0 by the Carolina RailHawks in the final game of a three-match run last week marking the strikers fourth consecutive loss. The Strikers travel back home to take on FC Edmonton on Wednesday beginning a three game home stand for Fort Lauderdale.

Now, here’s what’s trending:

Anderson Cooper asked Donald J. Trump if he understood that what he described in newly released tapes is sexual assault. Trump said it was just “locker room talk” before switching the topic to ISIS.

 For today’s weather forecast:

Partly Cloudy in Broward County with a high 83 of and a low of 73. Partly cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 82 and a low of 75.

For more information on these and other stories, visit caribbeannationalweekly.com. Remember to pick up this week’s copy of our Caribbean National Weekly at your nearest Caribbean – American outlet.

Today’s news is brought to you by Grace Aloe. Aloe Vera drink, Refreshingly Delicious.”

You’ve been watching CNW90, I’m Suzette Speaks.

 

This day in history: Great Hurricane rips through Caribbean

Great Hurricane 1780, Caribbean

On this day in Caribbean history, October 10, 1780, the Great Hurricane, also known as Huracán San Calixto, the Great Hurricane of the Antilles first began affecting Barbados with rain late on October 9 with northwesterly winds increased through the day on October 10.

The 1780 Disaster, is the deadliest Atlantic hurricane on record. Between 20,000 and 22,000 people died throughout the Lesser Antilles when the storm passed through them from October 10–16. Specifics on the hurricane’s track and strength are unknown since the official Atlantic hurricane database only goes back to 1851.

The hurricane struck Barbados with winds possibly exceeding 320 km/h (200 mph), before moving past Martinique, Saint Lucia, and Sint Eustatius; thousands of deaths were reported on the islands. Coming in the midst of the American Revolution, the storm caused heavy losses to British and French fleets contesting for control of the area. The hurricane later passed near Puerto Rico and over the eastern portion of Hispaniola. There, it caused heavy damage near the coastlines. It ultimately turned to the northeast and was last observed on October 20 southeast of Atlantic Canada.

The death toll from the Great Hurricane alone exceeds that of many entire decades of Atlantic hurricanes. Estimates are marginally higher than for Hurricane Mitch, the second-deadliest Atlantic storm, for which figures are likely more accurate. The hurricane was part of the disastrous 1780 Atlantic hurricane season, with two other deadly storms occurring in October.

CCRIF to pay US$20 million to Haiti following Hurricane Matthew

milo pearson haiti hurricane mTTHEW

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, October 6, 2016 – CCRIF SPC (formerly the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility) is preparing to make a payout to the Government of Haiti as a result of the passage of Hurricane Matthew which triggered a payment on the country’s Tropical Cyclone policy. Based on preliminary calculations, Haiti will receive a little over US$20 million – the largest payment ever made by CCRIF.

This was revealed this afternoon by CCRIF Chairman Mr. Milo Pearson at the IMF/World Bank Group Annual Meetings. He also thanked the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) for paying Haiti’s insurance premiums over the last four years in support of the country’s overall disaster risk management strategy, recognising the key role of risk transfer instruments. Prior to that, in 2010 and 2011, both CDB and the Government of Canada paid Haiti’s annual premium.
Since its inception in 2007, CCRIF has made a total of 15 payouts to 10 member governments totalling US$38.8 million, all within 14 days of the event. This payment will represent the 16th payout, which would make total payouts approximately US$58.8 million.
This payment will be Haiti’s second payment from CCRIF. Recall that in 2010, following the devastating earthquake, CCRIF made a payment to the Government of Haiti of US$7.7 million, based on the terms of its Earthquake Policy. That payment represented the first inflow of direct financial assistance received by Haiti at that time. The Haitian government used the CCRIF funds to cover salaries of key emergency personnel, thereby “keeping the wheels of government turning.”
CCRIF’s parametric insurance products are insurance contracts that make payments based on the intensity of an event (for example, hurricane wind speed, earthquake intensity or volume of rainfall) and the amount of loss calculated in a pre-agreed model caused by these events. Parametric insurance enables payouts to be made very quickly after a hazard event. This is different from traditional insurance settlements that require an on-the-ground assessment of individual losses after an event before a payment can be made.
Hurricane Matthew made landfall in Haiti on October 4 as a powerful Category 4 Hurricane. A United Nations representative to Haiti, Mourad Wahba, said the country was facing its largest humanitarian crisis since the earthquake in 2010 left more than 200,000 dead and tens of thousands living in tents and makeshift dwellings. Over twenty-three deaths have been reported so far and Matthew has caused significant damage to the southern coast. According to HRA (the Haiti Renewal Alliance), Matthew brought intense rain, wind and surge waves, causing mudslides and flooding. The main bridge that links the capital of Port-au-Prince to southern Haiti has collapsed and the coast has been badly hit in the areas of Grande Anse, Port-Salut and Port-à-Piment with 1,243,000 people (including 522,000 children) affected. Les Cayes has been totally flooded. Initial estimates suggest that 4 million children in Haiti will be directly affected by the storm.

CCRIF CEO, Mr. Isaac Anthony stated, “The CCRIF Board and Team extend our condolences to Haiti on the loss of life and extend our support to the Government and people of Haiti as they recover from this disaster.” Having already spoken to the Government of Haiti this morning, Mr. Anthony further stated that “we know that the Government welcomes this payment and is looking forward to beginning their recovery efforts”.
Earlier, as Matthew moved through the eastern Caribbean islands, the centre of the storm passed over Barbados on September 28 as a Tropical Storm, triggering its CCRIF Tropical Cyclone policy. Barbados will receive a payout of US$975,000. According to Barbados’ Department of Emergency Management, all businesses closed that day until the all clear declaration on the morning of 29 September. There were reports of fallen trees, isolated flooding, power outages and water disruption in some parts of the island.
Both Barbados and Haiti have Excess Rainfall policies also. Tropical Cyclone policies are designed to cover damages from wind and storm surge but not rainfall. Therefore, it is possible that these countries’ rainfall policies may be triggered as well – this would entitle them to an additional payout. There also is a possibility that other countries in the Eastern Caribbean who were earlier affected by Matthew may receive payouts under their Excess Rainfall policies. The model for excess rainfall events requires a few days longer to calculate results compared with the wind-based tropical cyclone model and CCRIF will issue new information when that assessment is complete.
CCRIF and the work we do continue to be cited as an internationally recognized example of a risk transfer mechanism that should be seen as a key and indispensable component of countries’ strategies for economic development, disaster risk management and climate resilience as these countries seek to achieve higher levels of growth, reduce poverty and become internationally competitive.
About CCRIF SPC: CCRIF SPC is a segregated portfolio company, owned, operated and registered in the Caribbean. It limits the financial impact of catastrophic hurricanes, earthquakes and excess rainfall events to Caribbean and – since 2015 – Central American governments by quickly providing short-term liquidity when a parametric insurance policy is triggered. It is the world’s first regional fund utilising parametric insurance, giving member governments the unique opportunity to purchase earthquake, hurricane and excess rainfall catastrophe coverage with lowest-possible pricing. CCRIF was developed under the technical leadership of the World Bank and with a grant from the Government of Japan. It was capitalized through contributions to a Multi-Donor Trust Fund (MDTF) by the Government of Canada, the European Union, the World Bank, the governments of the UK and France, the Caribbean Development Bank and the governments of Ireland and Bermuda, as well as through membership fees paid by participating governments. The Central America SP is capitalized by contributions to a special MDTF by the World Bank, European Commission and the governments of Canada and the United States.

No need to fear; MiamiBroward Carnival is still here!

miami broward carnival

Due to the threat posed by hurricane Mathew  last  Thursday the Miami Broward Carnival One Host Committee (MBOCHC) had made some scheduling changes to this year’s events  citing public safety  as their number one priority.

To that end  the anticipated  “Food Truck Invasion” event scheduled  for  yesterday at  Central Broward Regional Park was cancelled.

However the Miami Broward Carnival’s King & Queen and Panorama will now take place today Saturday, October 8, 2016 from 3 pm -11 pm at Central Broward Regional Park (3700 NW 11th Pl, Lauderhill, FL 33311) immediately following MBC’s official J’Ouvert.

Patrons who had tickets for Friday, will be honored for Saturday entrance into the King & Queens/Panorama event ONLY at 3 PM.

Tickets bought for Panorama will not be accepted for entry to J’Ouvert Saturday from 7 AM – 3 PM.  All tickets can be purchased on www.miamibrowardcarnival.com.

The Miami Broward Carnival official J’Ouvert will remain as scheduled at Central Broward Regional Park from 7 am – 3 pm.

In addition, the Miami Broward Carnival Parade of Bands and Concert will remain as schedule and planned on Sunday, October 9, 2016 at the Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds (10901 SW 24th St, Miami, FL 33165). website www.miamibrowardcarnival.com

Dania Beach, Lauderhill and Ft. Lauderdale to be sprayed for mosquito larvae

Broward cities to be sprayed for mosquitos

BROWARD COUNTY, FL – In the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew, the Mosquito Control Section is reminding residents and business owners to survey their property to remove any standing water to prevent mosquito breeding and protect residents from bites and diseases they may carry.

The Mosquito Control Section will perform a preventive aerial spray on Tuesday, October 11th, 2016, for mosquito larvae, in  sections of Dania Beach, Lauderhill and Fort Lauderdale, weather permitting. The helicopter will be spraying between the hours of 12:30AM and 6AM.

In Dania Beach, the areas are generally bounded by:
Area 1:
Old Griffin Road to the north
SE 3rd Place to the south
SE 5th Avenue and the Anne Kolb Nature Center to the east SW12th Avenue to the west
See map

In Lauderhill, the areas are generally bounded by:
Commercial Boulevard to the north
N. Pine Island Road and N University Drive
NW 47th Street to the south
University Drive to the east
Pine Island Road to the west
See map

In Fort Lauderdale, the areas are generally bounded by:
SE 6th Street to the north
SW28th Street to the South
Eisenhower Boulevard to the east
SW 9th Avenue and SE 3rd Avenue to the west
See map

The aerial spraying is a proactive measure. These areas were chosen based on a number of factors.

There are still no active local transmissions of the Zika virus in Broward County, and no active investigations. The one confirmed case in Broward was closed by the Department of Health, and it was determined no one else was infected.

As a precautionary measure, residents with breathing difficulties should remain indoors. Persons living in the area who have registered with the State to be alerted prior to spraying will be notified.

In addition to this aerial larvicide spraying, the Broward County Mosquito Control Section continues to work closely with the Florida Department of Health and Code Enforcement partners in Broward’s 31 municipalities to eliminate mosquitoes and their habitats by doing the following:

  • Conducting door-to-door back pack spraying
  • Draining standing water where possible
  • Treating standing water with long-lasting larvicide
  • Setting up mosquito traps
  • Sampling adult mosquitoes to gauge effectiveness of the abovementioned treatments

Broward County Mosquito Control Section also treats areas of the County based on requests received from residents. To request service online, complete the Mosquito Spray Request Form. Requests can also be made by calling 954-765-4062.

For more information on what you can do to protect your property and yourselves, visitwww.broward.org/zapzika. You can also follow us on Twitter @BrowardCounty, using #ZapZikaBroward.

About Highway and Bridge Maintenance Division 
The Highway and Bridge Maintenance Division is responsible for the maintenance and construction of County road and highway projects, curbs and gutters, guardrails, rights-of-ways, sidewalks, storm water systems, streets, swales and trees, and mosquito control. Staff resources are available for 24-hour emergency services. Call 954-357-6040 for more information.

St. Kitts PM Harris visits Rep. Stanley Kao in D.C. ahead of Taiwan’s 105th National Day

Taiwan 105th International Day

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, OCTOBER 7TH, 2016 (PRESS SEC) – Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris paid a courtesy visit yesterday, Thursday, October 6th, to His Excellency Stanley Kao, representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) to the United States.  The courtesy call in Washington, D.C., came ahead of the National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan), which is known as Double Ten Day (October 10th).  This year is the 105th celebration.

Representative Kao and Prime Minister Harris reflected on their countries’ long-held alliance, which was established in September 1983 right after St. Kitts and Nevis attained Independence from Britain.  They also discussed Dr. Harris’ recent trip to Taiwan along with a delegation, to attend the inauguration of Taiwan’s first female President, Tsai Ing-wen.

Her Excellency Dr. Thelma Phillip-Browne, St. Kitts and Nevis’ Ambassador to the United States of America, accompanied Prime Minister Harris to the meeting and said today that, “The Taiwanese Ambassador thanked the Honourable Prime Minister for being a strong supporter in the international arena, as Taiwan seeks to continue to position itself as an important and responsible stakeholder on the world stage and to give back to the global community.”

Displaying Amb. Phillip-Browne, PM Harris and Kao.jpg
(L-R) Ambassador Dr. Thelma Phillis-Browne, St. Kitts & Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Timothy Harris and Stanley Kao, representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) to the United States.

During the General Debate of the 71st Session of the United Nations General Assembly last month, the Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis notably voiced robust support for Taiwan, saying: “Mr. President [His Excellency Peter Thomson, President of the 71st Session of the U.N. General Assembly], in the last three decades, the tangible support of the Government and people of Taiwan has been remarkable.  Taiwan has stood shoulder to shoulder with the Government and people of St. Kitts and Nevis and remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting our determination to meet our people-empowerment agenda. Their help and solidarity touch almost every facet of life in our twin-island Federation.  These advantages and benefits should not be limited to a few countries.  I know that Taiwan is eager to share its progress and development successes with the rest of the world.  I therefore welcome new opportunities for Taiwan and its people to be warmly welcomed and integrated into the international fraternity of Nations as a global player, whose commitment to the principles of democracy, peace, and people empowerment can touch many more lives.”

Displaying representative stanley kao and mrs. kao.jpg
Representative Stanley Kao (center) with his family

Tonight in the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, government officials, diplomats, and members of the private sector and civil society will attend a formal reception in celebration of Taiwan’s 105th National Day.  The reception will be held under the auspices of Resident Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to St. Kitts and Nevis, His Excellency Ambassador George Gow Wei Chiou.

On Wednesday, October 5th at the Twin Oaks Estate in Washington, D.C., Representative Stanley Kao delivered remarks at the celebration ceremony of the 105th National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan).  The ceremony was held under the auspices of Taiwan’s representative office in the U.S.

Jamaica’s high school soccer star’s death sparks defibrillator push from the Diaspora

In the wake of the tragic passing of young footballer, Dominic James, last month, Team Jamaica Bickle is donating 15 Automated External Defibrillators (AEDS), to schools across Jamaica.

An AED is a portable electronic device that automatically diagnoses the life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias of ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia in a patient, and is able to treat them through defibrillation. The application of electrical therapy stops the arrhythmia, allowing the heart to reestablish an effective rhythm.

The official presentation and training will take place on Friday, October 14, 2016 at JAMPRO, 18 Trafalgar Road in Kingston.

Training will be conducted by experts from the Diaspora Healthcare Sector. The organization has also partnered with the Jamaica Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (JAMEMTS), based at the University of the West Indies, who will provide on-going training and support to recipient schools.

“We were in the process of sourcing defibrillators to present at a later date but in light of the recent tragedy we’ve decided to accelerate the hand-over to these schools,” said Irwine Clare, CEO and founder of the organization.

Claire said TJB is currently in the process of contacting the schools who will be receiving the AEDS. They include St. George’s College, Excelsior High School, St. Catherine High School, Marcus Garvey High, Garvey Maceo, Alpha Academy, Spot Valley, Oberlin High, Herbert Morrison High, York Castle High, St. Elizabeth Technical, Charliemont High, Dinthill Technical and Morant Bay High School.

Several of these schools were targeted, Claire said, because they lacked strong support programs while others were identified through collaborative efforts like the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA).

St. George’s and Excelsior were selected in honor of James, who collapsed during a match between the two schools and subsequently died at hospital minutes later.

Team Jamaica Bickle began its ‘Defibrillator to Schools Program’ in 2014 after the sudden death of athlete, Cavahn McKenzie, at a cross-country meet in Trinidad & Tobago. That same year, St. Jago was presented with an AED unit in his honor at the Penn Relays.

A medical area was also set up in tribute to McKenzie with health care practitioners led by the Jamaica Nurses Group of New York, providing training in first aid and CPR to athletes.

Since then TJB has held training sessions, partnering with Jamaicans Abroad Helping Jamaicans at Home (JAH JAH) Foundation to provide base-line free heart tests to some 100 students and presented another five units to Cornwall College, Petersfield High, Green Island High, Vere Technical and the G. C. Foster College of Physical Education and Sport.

Strikers support Breast Cancer Research, lose goalie to US National Team

Strikers support Breast Cancer Research, lose goalie to US National Team

Fort Lauderdale Strikers were beaten 3-0 by the Carolina RailHawks in the final game of a three-match run last week marking the strikers fourth consecutive loss. The Strikers travel back home to take on FC Edmonton on Wednesday beginning a three game home stand for Fort Lauderdale.

In honor of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Strikers have partnered with AutoNation and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation on the #DrivePink Campaign. For each match in October, the Strikers will wear special pink limited edition jerseys which are also on sale. To support the cause, fans can purchase these jerseys at Strikers.com/Shop or at Strikers home matches, with a portion of the proceeds going towards the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Additionally, the Strikers and AutoNation will be raffling off game worn player jerseys during the final regular season home match on Saturday,  October 22 vs Rayo OKC, with all of the proceeds going towards the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

 

Man Dodo Foundation in Miami works to aid Haiti

Man Dodo Foundation in Miami works to aid Haiti

Hurricane Mathew has now made it out of Haiti as it turned westward toward the US however, a south Florida organization has already begun to work toward helping people left harmed in the aftermath. Miami Gardens based the Man Dodo Humanitarian Foundation is seeking help in gathering supplies and clothing to ship to Haiti.

“The one thing good we have going for us is that the road from Port-au-Prince to Cayes is very good and I left there, I traveled that road late Saturday night, that road is very good,” Jeff Lozama of Man Dodo said. The Man Dodo Humanitarian Foundation was forced to move up their schedule in order to secure a delivery of medicine ahead of the storm.

The foundation is asking everybody to donate over-the-counter medication such as Tylenol, Motrin, Aleve, medication for gastrointestinal systems such as Zantac, Tums, Prilosec. These medications, though not life altering here in the US can make a world of difference in Haiti. Sandy Dorsainvil, previous Director at the Little Haiti Cultural Center in Miami said, “We’ve learned from the past that it doesn’t really make sense to wait until the hurricane actually hits land to start galvanizing everyone and activating all our different networks.”

 

Orlando welcomes Jerk and Caribbean Culture Festival

Orlando welcomes Jerk and Caribbean Culture Festival

Next weekend, Sunday October 16 families will make their way to the Central Florida Fairgrounds in Orlando for the 5th Annual Jerk and Caribbean Culture Jerk Festival. The gates open at 2p.m. Children 12 and under are free. 

Jerk Week

The highly anticipated Orlando Jerk Festival has partnered with local Caribbean restaurants to create “Jerk Week” before the big event. Orlando friends and families will receive free tickets to the Orlando Jerk Festival and Jerk Chicken Meals from October 11th to October 14 by simply listening to Star 94.5FM around midday. The first 25 persons who get to the participating Caribbean restaurant when instructed to do so, will win the prizes.

The Lineup

The “Energy God”, Elephant Man, Reggae Vocalist, Maxi Priest, the legendary “Queen of Reggae”, Marcia Griffiths and Soca’s New “Sensation”, Lyrikal. The sweet sounds of one of Jamaica’s most prized gifts to the world, Reggae Music, coupled with the Smooth Groove of the rocksteady beats, fused with the most popular dance songs will take you on a musical journey. The festival features the best of the best reggae artists to take you there.

The Food

Arguably, the Caribbean Food Festival in Central Florida, boasting an all-star lineup; Jerk Chicken, Jerk Pork, and Jerk Lobster. The festival will be filled with culinary personalities and delicious jerk inspired dishes. The flavors of the Caribbean will unveil itself in the delicious dishes as the aroma permeates the air igniting your tastes buds and urges you to immediately indulge in the different spices of the Islands. With food so good, there must be a Jerk Cook off Master. This will take place in the Jerk Cook-Off Competition, as Chefs will be vying for the coveted bragging rights and trophy in this competition.

Family Fun

Not to be outdone, the Kids Zone landscape features bounce house, face painting and much more. Parents can sip on one of the many event signature drinks while, engaging in a spirited cultural game experience, including domino, ludi, checkers or card games. Come out and meet with old friends and make new ones, all while nurturing all your senses.

Organizers

Executive Director of the Full-A-Vybez, Inc. Damian in association with 1.800.411. PAIN, A Medical & Lawyer Referral Service, are helping to bring the culture and food of the Caribbean to Orlando.

Matthew approaches Florida after devastating Haiti, Cuba and the Bahamas

Matthew approaches Florida after devastating Haiti, Cuba and the Bahamas

Following the devastating impact of Hurricane Matthew on the southwestern region of Haiti, eastern Cuba and The Bahamas, the storm as of Wednesday morning was moving dangerously close to Florida.

Early reports from Haiti are Matthew had a devastating impact on southwestern Haiti with winds up to 140 mph and torrential rainfall. Five people were confirmed killed, several farms destroyed, at least 1,855 homes flooded, affecting 2,700 families. The UN Secretary-General’s Deputy Special Representative for Haiti, Mourad Wahba said much of the population of Southwestern Haiti was displaced by the hurricane, and some 10,000 were in shelters. He said Haiti is currently facing its biggest humanitarian event since the 2010 earthquake.

In the immediate aftermath of the storm South Florida organizations and residents are taking efforts to help. On Wednesday morning Food for the Poor was in the processing of transporting foods and supplies to the island.

As the storm approached Haiti, Jean Monestime, Haitian-American Chairman of the Miami-Dade County Commission held a meeting with community leaders to plan relief efforts. As a result, relevant relief to Haiti was expected to commence from Miami-Dade on Wednesday. Monestime said, “The situation is very unfortunate. Haiti is still recovering from the 2010 earthquake.”

Projections has the storm approaching the east coast of Florida as a Category 3 with maximum winds averaging 120 miles per hour, and up to a Category 4 with winds averaging 135 mph. If the storm continues on the path projected by the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as of 11:00 am on Wednesday, its effects could be felt from the Florida Keys northward from as early as Thursday night. However, as NBC 6-Miami meteorologist John Morales cautioned with the storm over 400 miles from Florida’s east coast where, or if, it makes landfall is uncertain. In a tweet to National Weekly Morales predicted South Florida will feel the storms effect “one way or another. Possible hurricane impact for parts of the coast. But a very tough call.”

At a news conference on Wednesday morning, Florida Governor Rick Scott warned residents along Florida’s east coast to “be prepared to be hit by a devastating hurricane.” He said based on the projected path of the storm residents should prepare for rainfall from 4 to 7 inches, and 10 inches in some areas, a storm surge of several feet, possible tornadoes and hurricane-force winds.

The governor cautioned residents in low lying land along the coast that “It’s not too early to evacuate” and indicated voluntary evacuation had begun in certain areas including in St. Lucie County. He said the state stands ready to assist residents with evacuation needs.

“The number one priority is to protect lives. If an evacuation order is made for your area, leave immediately. We can rebuild homes and businesses, but no one can rebuild a life taken,” Scott said. He also said shelters will be open across the state and there’ll be no excuse for people living in vulnerable areas not to evacuate.

The mayors of Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties are also implementing plans to protect life and property in these counties, urging residents and businesses to be prepared. Residents are obviously heeding the warnings. From Tuesday evening, supermarkets, hardware stores, and gas stations, experienced unusual demand as residents try to stock up on water, food, batteries, other supplies and gas in advance of the storm.

 

One on One: Red Carpet interviews at IRAWMA

Miami Broward Carnival to take place despite hurricane Matthew

Everyone, today is October 5 and always bringing you the top stories making the news across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.
Today’s news is brought to you by Grace Aloe, Aloe Vera Drink, Refreshingly Delicious.
Here’s a look at our top stories:
President Barack Obama’s visit to the Florida Memorial University in Miami Gardens scheduled for today, has been postponed due to pending arrival of Hurricane Matthew to South Florida. Officials from the Hillary Clinton Campaign have not yet stated when the event will be rescheduled.

In anticipation of the devastating effects of Hurricane Matthew on Haiti , the Man Dodo Humanitarian Foundation in Miami has already began preparing aid  to help communities impacted by the storm. In collaboration with the Haitian American Nurses Association, and nursing students from Miami-Dade College, organizers are collecting pain relievers, antibiotic pills and ointment, pedialite, and gently worn clothes to donate to the people of Haiti.

Miami Broward Carnival organizers  say “the show will go on” despite the impending US landfall of Hurricane Matthew. John Beckford, Vice-president for the Miami Broward Carnival …says he is not worried about the Hurricane and Sunday’s festivities will continue as scheduled. Acts booked for the carnival include Kes The Band, Desperado Steel Orchestra, and Allison Hinds. The parade and concert will begin at 11 a.m. on Sunday at the Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds.
In sports:
West Indies Women cricket team will take on England… in a 5-match series of One Day International matches running from October 8 to October 19…The first two matches will be held at the Trelawny Stadium in Jamaica and the final three at Sabina Park in Kingston.
Now, here’s what’s trending:
A Hurricane Warning has been issued for Broward County, Florida and Tropical Storm Warnings for Miami Dade County and the middle and upper Florida keys. Officials are warning South Florida residents to make sure they have an evacuation plan in place, and are prepared with enough water, gasoline, flashlights, batteries and food.
Now today’s weather forecast:
Partly cloudy in Broward County with a high 88 of and a low of 79. Scattered Storms in Miami-Dade, with a high of 86 and a low of 79.
For more information on these and other stories, visit caribbeannationalweekly.com
. Remember to pick up this week’s copy of our Caribbean National Weekly at your nearest Caribbean – American outlet.
Today’s news is brought to you by Grace Aloe. Aloe Vera drink, Refreshingly Delicious.”
You’ve been watching CNW90, I’m Suzette Speaks.

This Day in History: Delroy Wilson, Ska & Rocksteady singer, was born

On this day in Caribbean history, October 5, 1948, Delroy George Wilson, a Jamaican ska, rocksteady and reggae singer, regarded as Jamaica’s first child star, was born.

Delroy Wilson began his recording career at the age of thirteen, while still a pupil at Boys Town Primary School. Wilson released his first single “Emy Lou” in 1962 for record producer, Clement “Coxsone” Dodd. His early years with Coxsone yielded a number of ska hits, the biggest of which, the Lee Perry-written “Joe Liges” was an attack on rival producer and former Dodd employee Prince Buster. This was followed by another Perry-written attack on Buster, “Spit in the Sky”. Further singles followed, including “One Two Three”, “I Shall Not Remove”, “Look Who Is Back Again” (a duet with Slim Smith), and another anti-Buster song, “Prince Pharaoh”, notably the only record featuring the voice of Dodd himself.

His voice matured as he left his teens, around the time of ska’s transition to rocksteady and this period in the late 1960s produced many hits including one of the first rocksteady records, “Dancing Mood”, “Jerk in Time” (with the Wailers), “Feel Good All Over”, “I’m Not a King”, “True Believer in Love”, “Rain From the Skies”, “Conquer Me” and “Riding for a Fall”. “Won’t You Come Home”, a duet with Ken Boothe on a rhythm originally cut by The Conquerors for Sonia Pottinger has become one of the most-versioned Jamaican tracks ever. After leaving Studio One he recorded for other labels, with varying degrees of success, and set up his own short-lived W&C label. He enjoyed success with Bunny Lee in the late 1960s and early 1970s with tracks such as “This Old Heart of Mine”, “Footsteps of Another Man”, and “Better Must Come”. His double A-side “It Hurts”/”Put Yourself in My Place” was a skinhead favourite and narrowly missed UK chart success. He recorded a version of “Run Run”, a song he had originally recorded for Dodd, for maverick producer Keith Hudson.

In 1972, Michael Manley’s People’s National Party chose Wilson’s “Better Must Come” as their election campaign song. The same year saw the release of one of his most popular songs, “Cool Operator”, which became his nickname. He worked with a string of producers in the years that followed, including Joe Gibbs (“Mash Up Illiteracy”, “Pretty Girl”), Gussie Clarke (“Love”), Winston “Niney” Holness (“Rascal Man”), Harry J (“Ask The Lonely”), and Joseph Hoo Kim (“It’s a Shame”).

 

 

 

 

 

wikipedia

Miami-Dade students excel in SAT exams

Miami-Dade students excel in SAT exams 

Results from the College Board Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) taken by South Florida senior students earlier this year or last year revealed impressive performance by Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ (M-DCPS) students. The report indicated these seniors performed better than  students in other South Florida and Florida school Districts with scores increasing in Reading, Mathematics and Writing.

Reacting to the impressive results, Miami-Dade Schools Superintendent Alberto Carvalho said, “Our students continue to do exceptionally well on state and national assessments. “The results of the College Board SAT demonstrate that our students are not only outpacing their state and national counterparts, but are emerging from high school with superior college and career readiness skills. They are fully engaged academically and our instructional staff and programs are among the best in the nation. All of Miami-Dade County should revel in this outstanding achievement for our students and teachers.”

An analysis of the M-DCPS SAT results indicted: increase in the average scores in Reading, Mathematics, and Writing; while the average scores nationally and for Florida schools declined. The scores achieved by Miami-Dade students in Critical Reading increased by 16 points, in Mathematics by 12 points, and 13 points in writing. M-DCPS students’ average Critical Reading scores were as high or higher than statewide averages in 34 county senior high schools, Mathematics scores higher in 28, and Writing scores higher in 29 schools.

Meridith Brandt, math teacher at a Cutler Ridge, Miami-Dade high school, praises the District “for the leadership offered by Miami-Dade School District in ensuring the 2016 graduating class is effectively prepared to either enter four-year colleges or the job market.” She said the District’s leadership “went a long way to cope with the challenges faced by both students and teacher.”

Substantiated by information received from the office of M-DCPS, Brandt cited that the District provided students and teachers with various SAT prep materials, online resources, and professional development in the area of course and test instructions. The District said these initiatives helped to strengthen teaching strategies and student’s course skills assessed by the SAT. “The very positive SAT results achieved by our students is a reflection of the success of the instructions and focus on enhancing teacher’s skills in Critical Reading, Math, and Writing,” Brandt said.

 

Miami resident, Olivia Theobalds, also had high praise for the Miami-Dade School District. “The preparation given to my daughter for the SAT was exceptional. At first she was very nervous about the test, but the hands-on preparation she received eventually made her very confident. She passed the test impressively, which made her acceptance into a local college much easier.”

Windies Women to face off with England in 5 series ODI

Windies Women to face off with England in 5 series ODI

West Indies Women cricket team will take on England in 5 match series of One Day International (ODI) matches running from October 8 to October 19. The first two matches will be held at the Trelawny Multiplex Stadium in Jamaica and the final three at Sabina Park in Kingston, Jamaica.

The last three of the ODIs will count towards the International Cricket Council (ICC) Women’s Championship, a multi-year, bilateral competition between the top eight international women’s sides. These will lead to automatic qualification for the top four teams into the 2017 ICC Women’s World Cup set to be hosted by the England & Wales Cricket Board.

The Windies currently stand in second of the standings with 20 points, 10 behind current ODI World champions Australia, and one ahead of England.

They are due to complete their schedule of ICC Women’s Championship matches in November on the road against India.

The 13-member squad does not include Kyshona and Kycia Knight and Shakera Selman, who were part of the World T20-winning team earlier this year. Offspinner Anisa Mohammed has been appointed vice-captain.

Overtown, no longer a Food Desert

First local Grocery opens in Overtown in years

Miami Commission Chairman Keon Hardemon & The Southeast Overtown/Park West Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) have announced the grand opening of Top Value Supermarket, the first major grocery store in Overtown. The lack of having a large grocery store currently located in Miami’s Overtown neighborhood, and the lack of one anywhere locally for years, has given the city a negative connotation as a “food desert”.

With the opening of this grocery store, its residents will have access to fresh produce, quality meats, alternate food options, and items without having to leave town. With this option to live and shop local, hopes of stimulating the economy are now greater.

The CRA invested $2.2 million to renovate the interior and exterior of the Overtown Plaza. The company received a total of $600,000; $200,000 grant and a $400,000 loan, in funding from the CRA to assist with construction costs for the build out of the 17,158 square foot store.

Dominica musicians sue CDB

Three members of the local music industry in Dominica, including the internationally renowned Gordon Henderson and Ophelia Marie have filed a lawsuit against the Barbados-based Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) seeking compensation for copyright infringement.

The Dominica-based online publication DA Vibes said that the three, including writer McCarthy Marie, who is also the husband of Ophelia, allege that the bank breached their rights in copyright when between August 27 and November 4 last year, without permission reproduced the musical work “Aie Dominique” .

They claimed that the CDB synchronized the work with its pictures in an audio-visual production entitled “Aie Dominique” which purports to show the intervention in Dominica of the CDB following the passage of Tropical Storm Erika on August 27 last year.

McCarthy Marie claims that he is the owner of the economic rights in the song, which is sung by his wife, by virtue of a music-publishing contract, which assigned all transferable rights to him.

He claimed that the CDB also infringed his right of reproduction by downloading the song from YouTube prior to synchronizing it with its pictures.

The Paris-based Henderson, said as owner of the rights in the sound recording in which the musical work is embedded, said unauthorized reproductions of his sound recording and that the bank made his sound recording available to the public without his license or authorization.

Additionally, Henderson is claiming infringement of his moral right since he was not named as the keyboard player on the same sound recording.

Meanwhile, Ophelia Marie is claiming multiple infringements by the bank .She said the bank breached her copyright when , sometime between 27th August and 4th November it uploaded its audio-visual work to the Vimeo video hosting service thereby infringing her exclusive right to make her fixed performance available to the public.

 

This Day in History: The Barbados Workers’ Union was registered as a legal union

On this day in Caribbean history, October 4,1941, the Barbados Workers’ Union, a general workers union and was registered with a membership of 25,000 persons covering all areas of employment in Barbados. Members are represented in Agriculture, Tourism and Restaurant Services, Transport, Government and Statutory Boards, Banking and Insurance, Manufacturing and Industry, Construction, Commerce and General Services.

The passing of the Trade Union Act in 1939, which came into force in 1940, provided legal sanction for the Barbados Workers’ Union to be founded on 4th October. The period between 1941 and 1944 was crucial for the Union, and the year 1944 was indeed a landmark in the forward advance of the workers’ movement.

The Union started in this initial period with three functional divisions: the Ships Carpenters, the Barbados Foundry Mechanics and the Central Foundry Mechanics. These three pioneer Divisions held the fort valiantly until 1944, following a strike at the Barbados Foundry, which gave a new lease of life to the Union.

Comrade McDonald Brathwaite, a senior workman at the Barbados Foundry, with over 20 years’ service, was dismissed and the Executive Council had no alternative but to support him. The act of dismissal was part of the employers’ method of intimidation.

The Workers’ Union is affiliated to the Caribbean Congress of Labour  (CCL), which is headquartered in Barbados and is a member of The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB), which has its registered offices at “Solidarity House”, Harmony Hall, St. Michael. The Barbados Workers’ Union Labour College, the residential educational arm of the BWU was opened on 20 September 1974.

 

 

bwu.org

Florida and North Carolina declare State of Emergency

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, October 4th, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida.

Today’s news is brought to you by Goldson Spine and Rehabilitation Center, who reminds you “after a car accident call, Goldson Spine.”

Here’s a look at our top stories:

President Barack Obama will campaign for Hillary Clinton tomorrow in Miami Gardens at the Florida Memorial University Athletic Arena. At a rally, President Obama will lay out the high stakes of November’s election for Florida families and highlight Clinton’s vision for an America. Doors open at 1:30 p.m.

 

North Miami city Mayor, Dr. Smith Joseph will host a Zika Awareness Town Hall meeting giving residents a chance to ask questions, address concerns and find helpful tips relating to the Zika virus. Despite the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lifting a travel advisory on Wynwood in Miami-Dade County, the fear of the mosquito borne virus is biting into Florida’s $90 billion travel industry with 30 percent fewer flights being booked to Miami.

 

Jr. Carnival started the anticipated Carnival season Saturday at the Central Broward Regional Park, Lauderhill, with a parade of children and young adults celebrating Caribbean heritage. Adding to the diversity of South Florida, the event included a costume competition, kid fun zone, face painting and more. First place for Bands went to Heritage TNT, Queen went to Jazeem DeGannes and king to Jadan Chan Tack.

In sports:

The Jamaica Football Federation has announced the Caribbean Cup-qualifying match between Jamaica and Suriname set for tomorrow at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex in St Andrew has been postponed. The delay of the match is due the heavy rain and winds expected from the passing of Hurricane Matthew over the island.

Now, here’s what’s trending:

Hurricane Matthew has made landfall in Haiti this morning as a Category 4 Hurricane with 145 mile per hour winds. Both Florida and North Carolina have declared a state of emergency after expecting the storm to turn west and hit South Florida.

For today’s weather forecast:

Scattered ThunderStorms in Broward County with a high 86 of and a low of 79. Scattered Storms in Miami-Dade, with a high of 87 and a low of 78.

For more information on these and other stories, visit caribbeannationalweekly.com. Remember to pick up this week’s copy of our Caribbean National Weekly at your nearest Caribbean – American outlet.

Today’s news is brought to you by Goldson Spine and Rehabilitation Center, who reminds you “after a car accident call, Goldson Spine.”

You’ve been watching CNW90, I’m Suzette Speaks.

Smart ways to create calm as you rush from holiday to holiday

Skip the Holiday chaos this year

Less than a month separates Halloween from Thanksgiving. And, this year, Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa are all within a day of each other, and the two multi-day holidays both end on New Year’s Day. With end-of-year celebrations coming one after another, transitioning from holiday to holiday can ratchet up your stress level.

If you really want to enjoy the holiday season to the fullest, it’s important to find ways to create calm in the chaos of party preparations, gift shopping, meal planning and other forms of busyness. Here are some tips to remain calm and in control as you move through the hectic pace of the holidays:

Have a plan

The holidays are busy and stressful enough without adding uncertainty and last-minute challenges into the mix. Plan ahead for holiday celebrations so that you know well in advance what you’ll need to make a memorable gathering. The further ahead you plan, the more time you’ll have for preparation, so go ahead and create your Thanksgiving menu while you’re sneaking treats from the kids’ Halloween stash. Start your Christmas shopping list at the same time.

Establishing a budget can also help ensure you stay calm during the holidays. Overspending is one of the most stress-causing experiences of the season. Planning how much you’ll spend for gifts, decorations and entertainment can help remove the stress of watching the bills pile up.

Relieve stress with renting

The amount of clutter you need in your home always seems to increase with the holidays – from Halloween costumes and decorations, to dishes and silverware for meals. Trying to gather everything in time can be stressful, and figuring out where to store it all after the holidays are over can be even more frustrating. Renting holiday-related items can be a hassle-free way to get what you need without the expense of buying, the logistical challenges of borrowing and the headache of storing stuff after the holidays. Local rental stores carry everything you need to move quickly and calmly from holiday to holiday.

You can rent Halloween costumes; chafing dishes, silverware, dishes and linens for a big Thanksgiving meal; and decor for Christmas and New Year’s. You can find tables and chairs, lighting, centerpieces and even portable dance floors for New Year’s parties. Visit www.rentalHQ.com to find an American Rental Association member store in your area, and remember to reserve items early as the holidays are a busy time for rental stores as well.

Repurpose recipes

Your guest list probably changes from celebration to celebration. The big Halloween party might include friends from the neighborhood or co-workers; Thanksgiving, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa are for spending time with family; and your annual New Year’s Eve party involves practically everyone you know. Trying to make different dishes and entirely unique menus for every one of those holiday celebrations could drive you crazy.

Try repurposing recipes and reusing dishes that are easy to make, impressive to eat and work for you and your budget. For example, the punch you made for Halloween could also be great for New Year’s, especially with a grownup flare. The pumpkin cheesecake that was the perfect ending to your Thanksgiving menu can be just as delicious for New Year’s. Since each event will probably have a different guest list, it won’t look like you’re repeating yourself.

Soothe your senses

Gaudy store displays, flashing holiday lights, blaring TV and radio commercials – the sights and sounds of the season can sometimes get to be too much. Soothing your senses can help create calm amid the chaos. While it may not be possible to completely unplug from the sensory overload the holidays can become, certain tactics can help relax you.

Try using aromatherapy at home and even in the office to create a scented oasis of serenity. Scented candles, potpourri or room spray in popular holiday aromas like pine, cinnamon, peppermint and vanilla can subliminally create calm. Music is also one of the most enjoyable aspects of the holiday season. If you love holiday music, playing it in the background while you tackle chores like meal prep or gift wrapping can help relax you and put you in a festive mood. Or, if you’re feeling overloaded with holiday music, put on something else that you find soothing – classical music, jazz or hip hop. Whatever works for you is the right background music to help you enjoy the season!

Dread cancer screenings?

Here are tips on how to deal

You go in for your annual visit and it goes something like this: You get weighed and measured and prodded. You see your doctor and talk about your health, maybe get a prescription refill, and most likely a referral for a screening or lab test. You walk out with the best of intentions, but you never get that test done. Sound familiar?

Many of us don’t love the idea of going in for a colonoscopy or mammogram, and even the idea of a needle stick might make some of us jittery. But when it comes to cancer screenings, those tests can mean the difference between a treatable – even curable – cancer, and one that’s far tougher to beat.

(For details, visit GetScreenedNow.org.)

In recent years, there’s been a trend towards evidence-based medicine – looking at the evidence and deciding what works and what doesn’t. The good news is that the medical evidence sometimes points to fewer tests. Here are some of the more significant changes you might notice at your next doctor visit, plus tips on how to make screenings easier on yourself.

What’s new for women

If you’re still getting annual mammograms, you might be able to have them less often. According to the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), women at average risk of breast cancer need screening only every two years from ages 50 to 74. Everyone’s situation is different, so talk to your doctor and together decide what’s right for you.

Likewise, most women don’t need once-a-year Pap tests. According to a 2012 change in guidelines, women ages 21 to 65 at average risk need this cervical cancer screening just once every three years. If you’re 30 to 65, you can get a DNA test as well as a Pap, which lets you go five years between tests (if your doctor agrees). That said, you’ll still want to go in for an annual wellness visit.

What’s different for men

Not as much to report here, guys, but if your doctor is still ordering a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test during your annual exam, you might want to talk about it. In 2012, the USPSTF recommended against routine PSA tests as a way to screen for prostate cancer. A high PSA level doesn’t necessarily signal cancer, but could lead to unneeded treatments. While PSA test rates have been going down, a recent study found that around 40 percent of men over age 60 were still getting them.

The latest on colon screenings 

If you’re between 50 and 75, you probably know that you need regular colon cancer screenings. You have a growing number of options now, and they all generally involve a tradeoff between thoroughness and the length of time between screenings. In particular, more insurance companies have started to cover virtual colonoscopies (Medicare is a notable exception).

Unlike traditional colonoscopies that use a camera to look inside your colon, a virtual colonoscopy is basically a CT scan (these scans use a series of X-rays to create sharp images). Normal results on an old-style colonoscopy can often get you off the hook for 10 years; the virtual version needs to be repeated every five years.

There are also several simple lab tests that involve collecting a little stool at home and mailing it in to the lab. The newer FIT tests look at immune markers and are more sensitive than older ones. Depending on the test, these need to be done every one to three years.

How to get over your reluctance

If you’re not a fan of getting tested, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans aren’t getting essential tests, and cancer screening rates are lowest among U.S. Latinos and Asians.

If cost is an issue, you might be happy to know that health plans under the Affordable Care Act must cover most preventive care at no cost to you (no co-pays, deductibles or coinsurance). If you have a plan that predates the 2010 law, your coverage may be different.

Here are a few simple ways you can make screenings easier for yourself.

* Ahead of your annual exam, check out which exams and preventive care are recommended for you by visiting GetScreenedNow.org, a collaboration between Stand Up To Cancer and Rally Health.

* Schedule your screenings and lab tests before you leave your primary care doctor’s office.

* When picking a day and time, think of how you might feel. Depending on the test, pick time of day that works best for you.

* On the day of your appointment, take someone along (for some tests you’ll be sedated so you’ll definitely need a driver).

* Make sure you’re as comfortable as possible. If you tend to get cold, bring a wrap or take socks.

* Before you leave, ask when you can expect your results so you’re not conjuring up worst-case scenarios while you wait to hear back.

* Afterward, treat yourself to your favorite little indulgence – you’ve earned it. Go to a movie, get a pedicure, or have a piece of pie.

 

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