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Using Technology for chronic pain relief

How technology is simplifying relief of chronic pain

Doctors hate seeing patients suffering from chronic pain, and not just because their instinct is immediately to want to help their patients to feel better. One of the primary challenges doctors confront is that even though chronic pain is common, it can be extremely difficult to diagnose and treat. The condition can be debilitating for patients and frustrating for the doctors trying to help them.

“Chronic pain is a multi-faceted condition,” says Dr. Ahmed Raslan, assistant professor of Neurological Surgery at Oregon Health and Sciences University in Portland. “The causes are varied, and each person experiences chronic pain differently. The sheer number of variables in play can make effective treatment extremely complex. It’s not unusual for doctors and patients to try multiple types and combinations of treatment before finding something that provides at least partial relief, and that process can take months and even years.”

More than 11 percent of American adults suffer from chronic pain, according to a recent National Institutes of Health study. People who live with chronic pain report numerous negative effects on their lives, including damage to personal relationships, decreased productivity at work, disruption of their daily routine and even depression. The Institute of Medicine has estimated the medical costs and lost productivity associated with chronic pain could cost as much as $635 billion per year.

“Many chronic pain patients face barriers to effective treatment, including the need for continual doctor visits to adjust aspects of their treatment, and difficulty traveling to meet with their physicians,” Dr. Raslan says. “Conditions such as intractable back pain, nerve injury, neck pain, pain after hernia operations, spinal cord injury pain, post herpetic neuralgia, complex regional pain syndrome, and pain after failed back surgery can force patients to try multiple treatments. Once they’ve tried a number of options and still have not achieved the desired comfort they may become a candidate for spinal cord stimulation therapy.”

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) therapy treats chronic pain by interrupting pain signals before they reach the brain. According to Dr. Raslan, the therapy works by “flooding the gates of the spinal cord so it cannot allow unpleasant pain signals to pass through the gates. Depending on how fast and regular the therapy is being delivered, patients may feel a slight tingling sensation in the area of the body associated with their pain, and in most cases patients report that sensation replaces the feeling of pain, which corresponds to pain relief.”

Though SCS has been around for years, recent advances from St. Jude Medical have made the proven effective treatment simpler for patients and doctors to use successfully. St. Jude Medical recently launched the Proclaim Elite SCS System, which is the most advanced SCS system the company has ever developed, and which includes a new, innovative platform that enables patients to adjust therapy with an Apple iPod Touch mobile device. The application is easy to use which the company hopes will enhance patient experience and delivery optimal results for patients.

The company does note that implantation of a spinal cord stimulation system can involve risk, such as painful stimulation, loss of pain relief and surgical risks, such as paralysis, during the implantation procedure. Patients should talk to their physician to determine if spinal cord stimulation therapy is right for them and their particular pain condition.

For many patients the therapy can deliver pain relief leading to dramatic improvement in quality of life. “Before I tried SCS, managing my chronic pain was very difficult,” says Ronald Seeling, 50, of Warren, Oregon, a patient of Dr. Raslan. “For many years, I was taking a lot of pain medication and my quality of life was diminished. I could barely walk and couldn’t do things around the house or visit with my grandkids.”

Seeling says SCS has provided him with more predictable and consistent chronic pain relief.

“Best of all, I was able to ‘test drive’ the treatment before I committed to it,” Seeling says. “Just a few months later, my pain is under control and I’m able to attend the grandkids’ ball games and birthday parties and even help with the dishes.”

“I’m encouraged by the convenience and freedom that my patients experience with this cutting-edge treatment,” Dr. Raslan says. “It has helped people like Ronald take control of their chronic pain and experience a better quality of life.”

Raslan cautions that SCS may not be right for everyone, so talk to your doctor about treatment options for your chronic pain. For more information, visit www.PowerOverYourPain.com, a site provided by St. Jude Medical, a leader in technologies to treat chronic pain.

 

 

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Trinidad and Tobago take on the U.S in CONCACAF qualifier

Trinidad and Tobago’s Soca Warriors will take on the U.S. National Men’s Team in a 2018 World Cup Qualifying Match on September 6 at the EverBank Field in Jacksonville. Trinidad’s Soca Warriors currently sit at the top of Group 3 of the CONCACAF qualifying with 10 points, the U.S. men’s team is currently second in the group with 7 points.

The USA drew 0-0 with Trinidad & Tobago on Nov. 17, 2015 in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad in their second game of Semifinal Round World Cup Qualifying. The winner of the match will most likely be assured a place in the next round of qualifying matches called the hexagonal round, where each team will play the other 5 teams both home and away, from the November 11 of this year to October 10, of 2017.

Trinidad and Tobago Nationals living in Florida will have the opportunity to see their team return to the World Cup and watch the game so close to home. The summer of 2015 was the last time the Soca Warriors played in the U.S and advanced to the quarterfinals of the Gold Cup. The game didn’t result in the teams favor, Panama won 6-5 on penalty kicks after 90 minutes of regulation play and 30 minutes of extra time.

The match, which could be vital for advancing to the Final Round of World Cup Qualifying, will be broadcast on FS1 and Univision networks. The exact kickoff time is still to be determined.

UN Responsible for Haiti’s Cholera outbreak?

With a look at some of the top stories making the news today, August 21st, across your Caribbean-American community in South Florida, I’m Jahlisa Harvey for CNW90.

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

Here’s a look at our top stories:

A proposal made by the Environmental Protection Agency to use genetically modified mosquitoes to fight the spread of the Zika virus will be put up for a vote in November for residents have their say. Officials say that the trials are to take place in tan area close to Key West making many residents in South Florida are skeptical of what the final decision will be.

The secretary general says that the United Nations has a moral responsibility to the victims of the cholera epidemic and for supporting Haiti in overcoming the epidemic. The cholera outbreak in Haiti, contracted through contaminated food or water, has affected an estimated 780,000 people and claimed the lives of over 9,100 people in Haiti.

Nick Cannon’s Jamaica-inspired film titled “King of the Dancehall” will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival starting on September 8 and star Whoopi Goldberg, Busta Rhymes and Ky-Mani Marley. The film follows the experiences of a New Yorker who visits his family in Jamaica and falls in love with the music and culture.

Let’s take a look at sports:

Trinidad and Tobago’s Soca Warriors will take on the U.S. National Men’s Team in a 2018 World Cup Qualifying Match on September 6 at the EverBank Field in Jacksonville. Trinidad’s Soca Warriors currently sit at the top of Group 3 of the CONCACAF qualifying with 10 points. The U.S. are currently second in the group with 7 points.

And now, here’s what’s trending:

History was made over the weekend as Jamaica’s Usain Bolt became the first Olympian to win gold in the 100 and 200 meter races in three consecutive Olympics. Bolt also reached his goal of a Triple-Triple by winning Gold in the 4 by 100 meter relay alongside Asaf Powell, Yohan Blake and Nickel Ashmeade.

For today’s weather forecast:

Cloudy in Broward County with a high of 93 and a low of 77. Partly cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 90 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 the Goldson Spine and Rehabilitation center, who reminds you, after an accident, call Goldson spine.

You’ve been watching CNW90, I’m Jahlisa Harvey.

This Day in History: The “Night of Fire” began

On this day in history, August 22, 1791, the Haitian war of independence began in flames under the leadership of a religious leader named Bookman. On the night known as the “Night of Fire”, over one hundred thousand slaves rose up against the vastly outnumbered and infinitely hated French. Unlike the French Revolution and the American Revolution, the Haitian revolution was entirely driven by the passions of men and women who had been enslaved most if not all of their lives. Over the next three weeks, the Haitian slaves burned every plantation throughout the fertile regions of Haiti and executed all Frenchmen they could find. The French fled to the seacoast towns and pleaded with France to help them out while the island burned.

Inspired by French Revolutionary ideology and angered by generations of abuse at the hands of white planters, the initial slave uprising was quelled within several days, but ongoing fighting between the slaves, free blacks, and planters continued. The great hero of the Haitian Revolution, François Dominique Toussaint L’Overture, was compared to George Washington and later to Napolean Bonaparte, was not even part of the original revolution. Although he was free, L’Ouverture joined the slave insurgency and quickly developed a reputation first as a capable soldier and then as military secretary to Georges Biassou, one of the insurgency’s leaders.

He didn’t participate in the burning of the plantations or the executions of the slaveowners, but he rose to his own when he realized that the revolution could not hold unless the slaves became militarily and politically organized to resist outside pressures. His first move when he joined the revolution was to train a small military group. He then realized that the Haitian slaves, who now occupied the eastern 2/3 of Haiti (now the Dominican Republic), were caught between three contending European forces, all of whom wanted Haiti for themselves. The French, of course, wanted Haiti back. The Spanish and English saw the revolution as an opportunity for seizing Haiti for themselves. Toussaint’s great genius was to achieve what he wanted for the slaves by playing each of these powers off of each other, for they all realized that the slaves were the key to gaining Haiti. In the end, Toussaint allied his forces with the French from 1794 to 1802, he was the dominant political and military leader in the French colony. Operating under the self-assumed title of General-in-Chief of the Army, L’Ouverture led the French in ousting the British and then in capturing the Spanish controlled half of the island. By 1801, although Saint Dominque remained ostensibly a French colony, L’Ouverture was ruling it as an independent state. He drafted a constitution in which he reiterated the 1794 abolition of slavery and appointed himself governor for “the rest of his glorious life.”

Social Media Controversy in The Bahamas

Controversy in The Bahamas

The Grand Bahama Human Rights Association (GBHRA) is calling for the immediate release two young singers it says have been detained in connection with a controversial song making the rounds on social media.

“We strongly urge the police to recognize that they should not interfere in matters of freedom of expression and that seeking to charge these men with criminal libel is an anti-democratic and reactionary response which has absolutely no place in a modern society,” the human rights group said in a statement.

The controversial expletive-filled song about Prime Minister Perry Christie went viral last week, and the police arrested the two singers last Thursday before releasing them 24 hours later “pending further investigation”.

The GBHRA acknowledges that while the lyrics of the song are “indeed shocking, offensive and derogatory…that is not enough to justify interference with the right to freedom of expression, which is guaranteed by the Bahamas Constitution – much less deprive the singers of their liberty.

“Once again, we warn the authorities that the world is watching. The Commissioner of Police must ask himself what sort of country The Bahamas would like to portray itself as to the international community.”

The GBHRA warned the authorities against having the Bahamas classified with “those dictatorships and authoritarian regimes that prosecute singers for their lyrics, writers for the words they use, or artists for the content of their work.“

 

Aetna pulling out of Obamacare shouldn’t affect Floridians

Aetna pulling out of Obamacare shouldn’t affect Floridians

The news that Aetna, a major health insurer in Florida and other states, will cease participating in the Affordable Care Act (ACA)(Obamacare) health insurance market place in 2017 seems a blow to the national healthcare program initiated by the Obama administration.

According to several South Florida brokers who sell policies for health insurance companies in the ACA market exchange, most of the policies sold were for Coventry Health Care of Florida, which have some of the more competitive premiums. However, some of these brokers are uncertain about the future of Coventry as it is an Aetna based company.

Response to Coventry local offices in Sunrise indicated no discontinuation in selling policies under Obamacare when the market exchange opens later this year. “Coventry will be in the marketplace,” said Kirk Sanders, a Coventry staffer.

Reports are that Aetna and other major health insurance companies have been incurring losses on the Obamacare policies. Aetna, which has some 838,000 Obamacare customers to date claimed most of the policy holders were seniors in need of frequent medical care which escalated the company’s costs.

Dr. Martin Roche, a West Palm Beach Obamacare advocate said that the large insurance companies are “being affected by the surge in the demand for medical care by people who were already sick but could not afford this care because they had no prior health insurance.” He expressed concern about Obamacare, “not because the program has deficiencies, but because of the high cost of medical care. For the large insurance companies like Aetna to remain in the program, and for the rates under Obamacare to remain competitive, the federal government may need to increase its subsidies to these insurance companies. However, if Congress continues to oppose funding the program, this could be a major problem in the future. Still, I believe that the demand for healthcare is so high that several small insurance companies will enter the market place to seize advantage.”

The Obama administration seems unfazed by Aetna’s decision. Kevin Counihan, CEO of the ACA market exchanges said, “Aetna’s decision to alter its marketplace participation does not change the fundamental fact that the health insurance marketplace will continue to bring quality coverage to millions of Americans next year and every year after that. It’s no surprise that companies are adapting at different rates to a market where they compete for business on cost and quality rather than by denying coverage to people with preexisting conditions.” He expressed confidence that the ACA is serving 11 million people and have brought down the uninsured rate to the lowest on record.

Take a trip through Africa where the Ganges meets the Nile

Take a trip through Africa where the Ganges meets the Nile

“Ganges meets the Nile” is a live performance that merges two cultures; the Haitian Afro community, and the Indo Caribbean community, in one location. Brought to you by Jayadevi Arts, Inc., this event is intended to revive and rejuvenate cultures through folkloric dance. Afro-Haitian inspired dancers from the Nancy St. Leger Dance Ensemble delve deep into their rich history, with choreography designed to entice and educate the audience.

The Nile River (also known as the River Nile) is a north flowing river in Africa, and was considered the ‘source of life’ by ancient Egyptians with its unending source of sustenance. This river is the longest river in the world and flows through eleven countries.  The River Ganges is the longest river in India, and is a valuable support system for wildlife and human livelihood; considered by many as the most sacred river in the world.

This September 10 performance will be accompanied by African drumming and singing of chants. Just like the Nile River in Africa, flowing through and around the continent, the performers of the event will flow through the aisles of the venue, creating a personal, up close experience with the audience.  Interwoven between the African dancers will be the Jayadevi Indo-Caribbean dancers, who like the Ganges, will intertwine through the African dancers.

Sponsored in part by Broward County Cultural Division, State of Florida Division of Cultural Affairs, and Florida Council on Arts and Culture, this experience will incorporate Indian Tassa Drumming with African Drumming and Mocko Jumbie Stilt Dancers. State-of-the-art and professional illustrators and animators will create the scenery on stage to transport the audience to incredible new heights seen for the first time in Florida.

The event will be held at the Miramar Cultural Center, doors open at 6pm. There will be no flash photography and no live streaming or video recording allowed at this event. Price range from $25 to $55 in advance. There will be group, student, and senior discounts available both at the door and online. To purchase tickets online visit  https://tickets.miramarculturalcenter.org/TheatreManager/1/login&event=957

 

Miss Jamaica Florida Competition extends deadline to August 31

Miss Jamaica Florida Competition extends deadline to August 31

The Miss Jamaica Florida Pageant is seeking well-rounded, confident, intelligent young ladies to compete for the title of Miss Jamaica Florida 2016. In order to allow for greater participation, the organizers have extended the application deadline to August 31.

The winner of the competition will receive a week-long all expenses paid trip to Jamaica, a modeling contract, and savings bonds among other gifts; and will participate in media events, humanitarian projects, and official appearances during the year-long reign.  The mission of the pageant is titled “Crowned with a Purpose” which serves as a reminder that as members of the Jamaican Diaspora, we must ‘stay committed to the fulfillment of our philanthropic duties and remain steadfast in our quest for knowledge…’

To compete in the competition, contestants must be Jamaican-born or of Jamaican descent; must be between the ages of 5 and 24, reside in Miami-Dade, Broward, or Palm Beach County; and must be unmarried and must never have been married. This year will mark the 27th year of ‘elegance and sophistication’ celebrated by the Miss Jamaica Florida Pageant. The show, scheduled to take place on October 23rd, will be judged on four categories: a preliminary private interview, creative expression, formal wear, and the on-stage question.

For inquiries about eligibility and to view a full list of application requirements visit www.MissJamaicaFlorida.com; call 754-444-1819, or email MissJamaicaFlorida@gmail.com.

 

 

This Day in History: NAACP Youth Council hold Sit-in at Katz Drug Store

On this day in History, August 19, 1958, the NAACP Youth Council held a sit-in at the Katz Drug Store lunch counter in Oklahoma City. The council protested the whites-only seating at the establishment.

Led by activist Clara Luper, a high school teacher, and her students, the sit-in was seen as one of the first protest to garner national attention. Shortly after the sit-in began the store owner agreed to integrate the lunch counter following in the steps of the segregation which had long been ingrained in Oklahoma’s culture. Like other states across the country, “Whites Only” signs were a constant reminder to African Americans of their “inferior” status. Luper felt that legal action alone would not change such a pattern, favoring peaceful sit-ins as a way to confront the problem head-on.

The group continued to protest other restaurants in Oklahoma City and was integral to leading the way for other to also integrate many other restaurants across the Midwest over the years.

The Dockum and Oklahoma City sit-ins are often overshadowed by the later sit-ins in Greensboro, N.C. and other places throughout the South but were just as groundbreaking.

Over the course of their campaign, the Youth Council attracted support from members of the black community as well as many whites in the religious community. Important community leaders such as Father Robert Mc Dole of the Corpus Catholic church threw their weight behind the sit-in campaign and condemned the practice of segregation.

The desegregation campaign ended in 1964, when Congress passed the Civil Rights Bill that effectively outlawed discrimination in most public accommodations. Although there were no explicit confrontations in Oklahoma City, the relative peace did not mean that all whites immediately embraced the law.

UWI, Jamaica went under full lockdown after shooting incident

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, August 19th, 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:

The University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, went into full lockdown after a shooting incident took place this week on the Campus. According to students, the university sent out a campus-wide text message warning them not to leave their residence. It was later revealed that a taxi driver was the victim of the shooting.

The Haitian electoral authorities have announced details of a $55 million budget to organize the rerun of the presidential election with money from Haiti’s transitional government. The country’s Provisional Electoral Council is set to hold two rounds of voting for president, members of parliament and municipal seats. The first round of voting is scheduled for October 9.

In anticipation of the first day of school, the city of Miami Gardens is hosting a back-to-school-themed Food Truck Invasion and Open Mic Night starting at 5:30 this evening. In Rolling Oaks, there will be a book bag giveaway for students. In celebration of the school year, the city is encouraging all students to show their spirit by wearing their school’s colors.

Let’s take a look at sports:

Jamaica’s Usain Bolt continued to make history winning another Gold medal during his 200 meter run in Rio last night. After running a close race with Canada’s Andre DeGrasse in the semifinals on Wednesday, Bolt left nothing to chance finishing clear ahead of his competitors. The anticipated 4 by 100-meter race is scheduled for tonight.

And now, here’s what’s trending:

Wednesday night Jack Conger and Gunnar Bentz taken off their flight and were barred from leaving Brazil until they gave police their account of what happened. They were soon released and arrived in Miami early this morning. Police said that at least one of the men had vandalized a mirror, a sign and urinated on the premises at the gas station. Video footage appears to support some of these assertions and shows security officers then demanding the men get out of their taxi. Police said the officers likely used guns “to control” the men.

For today’s weather forecast:

Cloudy in Broward County with a high of 90 and a low of 75. Partly cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 88 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 Grace Aloe. Aloe Vera Drink, refreshingly Delicious!

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

 

National Weekly August 18, 2016

Fear of genetically modified mosquitoes to fight Zika

Fear of genetically modified mosquitoes to fight Zika

The Wynwood, Miami-Dade resident Josephina Barielle, is skeptical and fearful of a proposal made by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to use genetically modified (GM) mosquitoes in the fight against the spread of the Zika virus. Earlier this week, the EPA gave approval for the GM mosquitoes to be used in Miami.

However, according to Miami environmental consultant Danny Clover, using GM mosquitoes “have been proven to (be) an effective method in decreasing the mosquito population that spreads diseases like Zika and Dengue Fever, and are harmless to humans.” He believes with people conscious that mosquitoes are the cause of these diseases, when hearing of a plan to introduce more mosquitoes into the environment, “they become very skeptical.”

Clover further explained the strategy of using GM mosquitoes is primarily to release male mosquitoes that “Do not transmit Zika or any disease, and although the GM male mosquito will mate with natural female mosquitoes, the eggs would develop and this reduces the overall Aedes-aegypti mosquito population in the area where the GM process is used.”

The EPA has proposed beginning trials with the GM mosquitoes in Key Haven, close to Key West.

US Senator Bill Nelson from Florida has also assured Miami residents that GM mosquitoes present no threat to them. “The EPA has carefully studied the process and has determined there’s no potential danger to the environment or to humans.”

If Florida officials approve the use of the GM mosquitoes, according to reports, millions of mosquitoes could be released in the environment. Barielle, who lives in Wynwood but works during the week at a Key West hotel, says “I really can’t understand how releasing so many mosquitoes can prevent diseases that are carried by mosquitoes.”

The final decision to use the GM mosquitoes will be made by Florida’s Mosquito Control Board, although voters in November will be given the opportunity to vote if they are in favor of the procedure.

Residents in Key Haven saying they don’t “want to be used as test rats,” are aggressively protesting the plan and have begun placing signs reading “No Consent” in front of homes and businesses.

Tom McDonald of the Mosquito Control Board, gave assurances that using genetically modified mosquitoes is safer and more effective than using chemical sprays.

 

 

King of the Dancehall movie to premiere at TIFF

King of the Dancehall movie to premiere at TIFF

Nick Cannon has confirmed what everyone has been speculating about for the last year, he is in fact directing and starring in a Jamaica-inspired film alongside the talented Whoopi Goldberg, Busta Rhymes and Ky-Mani Marley. The film will premiere in Jamaica shortly after debuting at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).

TIFF will run from September 8 to 18. Cannon commented on the film, saying that King of the Dancehall is one of those things that has been missing.

“As a storyteller, I often complain, even for one of my spoken words; I say I don’t want to see anymore slave movies. So as a content provider and as a filmmaker and a storyteller, I want to tell different stories and this is a very different, artistic approach to tell the dancehall story, and the story of the West Indian culture, and the story of Kingston, Jamaica.”

The anticipated movie “King of the Dancehall” follows the experiences of a New Yorker, Cannon, who visits his family in Jamaica and falls in love with the music and culture. Dancehall Deejay Beenie Man, members of reggae group T.O.K., and singer/model Kreesha Turner will all be featured in the film

Cannon, who first visited Jamaica in December of 2014, immediately fell for the music and ‘pop style’ culture. In regards to the movie, Cannon told reporters that “I feel like I’m taking that torch and that’s what it’s all about. I have to tell stories that the average studio wouldn’t. And the Toronto Film Festival is giving me the opportunity to display my film and my art on such a wide stage. It’s truly an honor.”

 

Haitian ambassador calls for the U.S to monitor Haiti’s election

Haiti’s Ambassador to the Bahamas, Jean Victor Généus, is calling on the United States and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to send observers to monitor the October 9 elections in his country.

He is warning that the social, political and economic stability of Haiti is based on the results of the upcoming presidential elections that have already been postponed on several occasions in the past.

”If we don’t want to continue in this political mess…we have to do our best to have clean, transparent and democratic elections because there is a cost,” he said, adding “if we don’t solve this problem then we are going to go deeper, deeper into a very volatile, explosive political situation and the consequence is that the Bahamas will receive more refugees.

“That’s why we think it’s very important that our neighbours, Cuba, Bahamas, the US, be informed about what we want to do and also we welcome their support.

“We want them to send observers to see for themselves that what is being done is in conformity with the legal process. Observers not only from CARICOM but also local organisations,” he added.

On Thursday, the Permanent Council of the Organization of American States (OAS) called on all Haitian political and social actors to fully “assume their responsibilities and take all necessary measures to conclude the electoral process by holding free, fair and transparent elections on October 9.”

Haiti has been without a permanent head of state after Michel Martelly left in February without a successor being elected.

Although an election was scheduled for April 24 as stipulated in the February 5 political accord to transfer power from the caretaker government to an elected one, bickering and other concerns meant that Haiti could not hold the polls despite mounting pressure from the international community for the French-speaking CARICOM country to have an elected president in office by May 14.

 

IAAF reviews rules for athletes switching country allegiance

The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) is surveying whether or not to tighten the rules that allow athletes to switch country allegiance in the sport of track and field. Although this is not a new topic, Rio has put it under spotlight with numerous athletes switching countries to get a better shot at a title.

The Olympics governing body revealed to The Associated Press that IAAF president, Sebastian Coe’s leadership has discussed the issue during the Rio games, and “transfer of allegiance” is on the agenda for Saturday’s council meeting.  Currently, as the rule now stands, athletes must currently forego international competition for 12 months in order to compete for their adopted nation, and as long as their former national federation does not object.

On the eve of the Olympics, the IAAF allowed 85 athletes to compete for new countries, including 12 athletes who are now on the Bahrain team after previously representing African or Caribbean nations.

“It is time to review the transfer of allegiance rules to see if they are still applicable to today,” the IAAF told the AP on Monday. “It’s like many of the IAAF rules; they need to be reviewed over a period of time.”

Bahrain’s first Olympic gold medal was won Monday by Ruth Jebet in the 3,000-meter steeplechase. Jebet transferred her sports nationality to the Persian Gulf island kingdom three years ago, from Kenya.

Andrew Fisher competed in the 100-meter run for Bahrain after having his transfer of allegiance approved in July. The former Jamaican athlete has come forward saying that he searched for a new nation in order to secure a spot at the Olympics because he felt he could not qualify for the Jamaican team.

“The Jamaican team right now is a hard one to make, and we all have ambitions to compete at the highest level, and this was one way I saw where I could fulfil that ambition.”

The Qatari men’s handball team for Rio is almost entirely made up of European-born players attracted by the financial rewards gas-rich Qatar offers in a relatively cash-strapped sport. Bertrand Roine, who won the world championship with France in 2011 but competed against France for Qatar last week said “The worst feeling was during the national anthem. Ah, but what can I do?” Croatia-born Marko Bagaric said after Qatar’s game against his former countrymen, “Qatar gave me the opportunity to play in the Olympic Games. It is the dream of any sportsman.”

 

Jamaica to study castor oil to take advantage of the global market

Jamaica has undertaken a study on the local castor oil industry as the country moves to take advantage of a global market that could reach an estimated US$1.81 billion by 2020.

The study was commissioned by the Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) and examined recommendations for development and steps to capitalize on the Jamaica Black Castor Oil (JBCO) value chain.

JAMPRO’s  Manager of Market Development for Agriculture and Non-Food Manufacturing, Berletta Henlon Forrester, said heightened interest shown in JBCO had prompted her agency to conduct the study.

“We got questions from how to grow the product, how to process it … (to) where we could find markets. How can we market our Jamaican Black Castor Oil has been the most critical question,” she said, adding that primary enquiries came from local stakeholders engaged in castor oil and castor bean production.

“Importantly, we have been getting enquiries from within the Caribbean for imports of bulk castor oil from Jamaica. We’ve got enquiries from buyers and distributors who want to take it to market,” she added.

She said JAMPRO wants to ensure that Jamaica is “front and centre with this industry” indicating that there are many opportunities to be had from a lucrative castor oil industry, which include the creation of more jobs.

“It’s the kind of product that can engage Jamaicans right across the island. It has the potential to create new enterprises,” she said, adding that JAMPRO will facilitate the organisation of stakeholders into an association, which will enable greater leverage of the industry.

It is estimated that the global castor oil and derivatives market could reach US$1.81 billion by 2020. Biodiesel, lubricants and cosmetics are expected to drive the growth.

70-year-old Trinidad & Tobago man charged for importing illegal guns

Guns seized in TT

A 70-year-old cancer patient will return to court on September 3 after he was released on TT$ 1 million, bail on charges of illegally importing guns and ammunition into the country.

Morrisson Mewalal, who recently returned to Trinidad and Tobago after residing for several years in Philadelphia is accused of importing, from the United States, 6,540 rounds of ammunition into this country in Danish Cookie tins.

When he appeared before Magistrate Indira Misir-Gosine in the Princes Town Magistrates’ Court on Friday, he was also charged with illegally having a shotgun in his possession.

Mewalal, a recovering cancer patient, was unable to post the bail and as a result was remanded into custody at the Maximum State Prison.
The charges stem from the largest ever ammunition seizure here after police on August 5 executed a search warrant at his home one day before the accused returned to the country. Two people who had been detained following the raid, were later released.

According to the charges, Mewalal who gave himself up to the police on his arrival from the United States, is accused of importing 6,490 rounds of .22 ammunition and 50 rounds of .35 ammunition, he not being the holder of a permit to do so. The second charge alleged that he imported a rifle between those same dates.

Defence attorney Shubas Panday told the magistrate that Mewalal lived in Philadelphia for the past 20 years, but had lived in Piparo before he migrated.

Sunrise Air hoping to initiate flights from Haiti to Jamaica soon

Sunrise Air hoping to initiate flights between Haiti and Jamaica this fall

Haitian based airlines, Sunrise Airways, announced yesterday that it has entered the final phase of the application process to initiate the first flight to Jamaica. The flights will connect with destinations in Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba.

“Our journey to this point has been long, with some minor turbulence endured along the way, but I’m very pleased to say that we are now, indeed, on final approach to spread our wings to Jamaica this fall,” said President of Sunrise Airways, Philippe Bayard.

Sunrise Airways will add a Kingston to Port-au-Prince route which has expanded its commitment to the Jamaican market.

“Unique to our plan, Sunrise intends to be the only airline serving all three of Jamaica’s international gateways, Norman Manley in Kingston, Sangster International in Montego Bay, and Ian Flemming International Airport in Ocho Rios, with overseas flights.” said Bayard.

Sunrise Airways’ proposed new flights from Jamaica will connect all three of the island’s international airports with destinations into Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba.

“We see tremendous potential for growth along all of our proposed lines of flying, especially the Jamaica (to) Cuba routes,” said Bayard. “We’re committed to serving more of Cuba from more of Jamaica than any other airline…as well as unique leisure travel options enabling vacationers to experience the best of both countries in a more seamless fashion.”

Sunrise Airways will deploy its flagship ATR 42-320 aircraft on its new Jamaica routes which will include newly refurbished cabins, 46 seats, in-flight service, overhead space and legroom.

The airline company anticipates receiving final clearance from the Jamaican Civil Aviation Authority (JCAA) by September 1 of this year in order to launch its new Jamaica flights during the fall of 2016.

 

Marcus Garvey’s son tries to get Presidential Pardon for his father

A look at the top stories making the news today, August 18th, 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:

Grace Foods issued a recall on specific batches of Curry products sold in the U.S, Bermuda and The Bahamas The was initiated due to the presence of lead in some variants of curry products  produced by Oriental Packing Company, for GraceKennedy. To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the products being recalled. Visit our website for a complete list of the products. (When was the recall issued?)

Haitian based airlines, Sunrise Airways, ANNOUNCED YESTERDAY that it has entered the final phase of the application process to initiate THE FIRST flight to Jamaica. THE FLIGHTS will connect with destinations in Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba.

The Miss Jamaica Florida organizers have extended the deadline for application to August 31st. During the competition, participants will be judged on four categories, a preliminary private interview, creative expression, formal wear, and the on-stage question.

Let’s take a look at sports:

Jamaica’s Elaine Thompson claimed victory in 200 meter run last night with a time of 21.78 seconds. Thompson was followed by Dafne Schippers of the Netherlands taking Silver and Tori Bowie of the U.S taking Bronze. Tonight in the men’s 200-meter final, Usain Bolt is hoping to win Gold for the second race on his way to gaining a Triple-Triple.

And now, here’s what’s trending:

Dr. Julius W. Garvey, the son of black nationalist, Marcus Mosiah Garvey held a conference yesterday to push for a presidential pardon to exonerate his father from a mail fraud conviction that caused deportation from the U.S. He and other community officials want President Barack Obama to clear his father’s name before he leaves office in January.

For today’s weather forecast:

Scattered storms in Broward County with a high of 89 and a low of 76. Partly cloudy 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 Grace Aloe. Aloe Vera Drink, refreshingly Delicious!

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

Grace Foods Recall Batches of Curry Products

GRACE FOODS RECALLS SPECIFIC BATCHES OF CURRY PRODUCTS 

GraceKennedy Limited has announced the recall of the following batches of its curry products:

Product Net Weight Best Before Date & Batch Number
Grace Mild Jamaican Style Curry Powder – in glass container 2 oz BB 03/11/19   OPCLOT # 030716

BB 03/28/19   OPCLOT # 032516
Grace Mild Jamaican Style Curry Powder –

in glass container

 6 oz BB 03/11/19  OPCLOT # 030716
Grace Hot Jamaican Style Curry Powder – in glass container

 

 2 oz BB 03/11/19  OPCLOT # 030716

 

BB 03/28/19  OPCLOT # 032516
Grace Hot Jamaican Style Curry Powder – in glass container 6 oz BB 03/11/19  OPCLOT # 030716

 

BB 04/11/19  OPCLOT # 040816
Grace Caribbean Tradition Hot Curry Powder – in plastic container 4 oz BB 12/14/19  OPCLOT # 121115

 

BB 12/14/19  OPCLOT # 120115

 

BB 03/11/19  OPCLOT # 030716

 

BB 03/28/19  OPCLOT # 032516

 

BB 04/11/19  OPCLOT # 040816

 

The products being recalled are packaged in the USA and distributed within the USA, Bermuda and the Bahamas. The recall was due to the presence of lead in some variants of curry products.

Lead can accumulate in the body over time, and may cause serious and sometimes permanent adverse health consequences. To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the products being recalled.

Consumers who may have purchased the Grace Curry products bearing the above best before dates and corresponding batch numbers, should not consume them. Instead they should return same to point of purchase, where the full cost will be refunded. The best before dates and batch numbers can be found on the top of the product caps.

Mr Ryan Mack, President and CEO of GraceKennedy Foods, stated “GraceKennedy wishes to assure consumers that their safety is paramount and that providing safe, high quality products to our consumers remains our number one priority.”  He added that the recall did not include any other batches of Grace Curry products.

Consumers in the USA with questions pertaining to the recall may contact Linda Colon at GraceKennedy Foods (USA) at (201) 329-6260 Monday through Friday between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST. Consumers in the Bahamas and Bermuda may contact Steve Boucher at (954)774-2687. Questions may also be sent via email to  gracekennedy@gkco.com.

This Day in History: James Meredith graduates from Ole Miss

On this day in history, August 18, 1963, James Howard Meredith was awarded a bachelor’s degree by the University of Mississippi, becoming the first black man to graduate from the school.

Inspired by President John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address, Meredith decided to exercise his constitutional rights and apply to the University of Mississippi. His goal was to put pressure on the Kennedy administration to enforce civil rights for African Americans.

Meredith, a strong-minded man considered himself fighting in a “war” for his rights as a citizen. He first applied to the university in January 1961 after an 18-month legal battle, a court ordered the university to admit him, but segregationist led by the Mississippi governor, Ross Barnett, refused to let him register in September of the next year.

Many speculate that although the governor knew he would have to admit Meredith, he did not want to appear weak to his fellow segregationists.

On Sept. 30, 1962, hundreds of federal marshals secured the campus and sneaked Mr. Meredith into a dormitory. That evening students and area segregationists began attacking the marshals and rioting. President John F. Kennedy ordered federal troops to quell the rioting, leaving two dead.

Meredith was born June 25, 1933. He was a Civil Rights Movement figure, writer, political adviser and Air Force veteran. In 1966 Meredith planned a solo 220-mile March Against Fear from Memphis, Tennessee to Jackson, Mississippi; he wanted to highlight continuing racism in the South and encourage voter registration after passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The second day, he was shot by a white gunman and suffered numerous wounds. Leaders of major organizations vowed to complete the march in his name after he was taken to the hospital. While Meredith was recovering, more people from across the country became involved as marchers. He rejoined the march and when Meredith and other leaders entered Jackson on June 26, they were leading an estimated 15,000 marchers, in what was the largest civil rights march in Mississippi. During the course of it, more than 4,000 African Americans had registered to vote, and the march was a catalyst to continued community organizing and additional registration.

In 2002 and again in 2012, the University of Mississippi led year-long series of events to celebrate the 40th and 50th anniversaries of Meredith’s integration of the institution. He was among numerous speakers invited to the campus, where a statue of him commemorates his role. The Lyceum-The Circle Historic District at the center of the campus has been designated as a National Historic Landmark for these events.

3 simple ways men can improve their health

3 simple ways men can improve their health

Men don’t have the best track record when it comes to taking care of themselves. It’s safe to say we all know someone who is just plain stubborn about going to the doctor. Even if they exhibit clear symptoms that should be checked out, say wheezing, chronic fatigue or worse, it can be a challenge to get them to seek medical help.

Of course, not all men are like this. In fact, as a whole, men have been getting better about taking care of themselves, according to new data gathered by the American Academy of Family Physicians.

“Men have begun paying more attention to their health and acting to maintain good health,” says Wanda Filer, MD, MBA, president of the AAFP and a practicing family physician. “They are getting physical exams, increasing their exercise activity, and getting their health care from their regular doctor.”

With this encouraging news, it’s important to remember that men’s health is still a big concern. By keeping the following three points in mind, you can help yourself, or a loved one, lead a longer and healthier life.

Health care is preventive, too.

It’s a common misconception that you go to the doctor only when you’re sick or not feeling well.

So, what’s the most common barrier that prevents men from seeing a doctor?

Answer: themselves. According to a 2016 survey conducted by Harris Poll on behalf of the AAFP, 31 percent of men wait until they feel extremely sick before seeing a doctor, and 21 percent say they have no reason to go to a doctor when feeling healthy.

As Filer says, “Not feeling sick is not necessarily the same as being healthy.”

Early detection and preventive care are two of the most important ways to maintain health and prevent potential health concerns from becoming major problems.

Step away from the screen.

Though more men exercise in 2016 than they did in the AAFP’s 2007 survey (80 percent vs 74 percent), many men still spend a considerable amount of time looking at screens.

In the 2016 online survey of 916 men across the country, the AAFP found that men spend, on average, about 20 hours each week working at a computer and 19 hours in front of a television.

While it’s nearly impossible to avoid screens in this day and age, men should be motivated to take on more physical and active hobbies that can reduce stress and improve their physical health.

Develop a relationship with a family physician.

An important step men can take to ensure they receive regular checkups and preventive care is to regularly visit a family physician. Nearly eight in 10 men (79 percent) have a regular doctor or health care professional they see when they are sick or want medical advice, however, a family physician not only treats the whole person, but the whole family. This is because an individual’s health should be a concern for the entire family.

The value of a family physician is that they perform routine checkups, immunizations and screenings. They can also treat chronic illnesses such as high blood pressure, asthma, arthritis and depression.

“If more men develop ongoing relationships with their family physician, their perception of good health is more likely to become reality,” said Dr. Filer.

To learn more about men’s health, visit www.familydoctor.org.

To learn more about the 2007 & 2016 surveys, visit www.aafp.org/menshealth.

 

Recipe: Jamaican Banana Bread

Jamaican Banana Bread

Try this warm and easy recipe for a nice night in. Easy to prepare, about an hour to bake in the oven. Substitutions always welcomed here. Let us know your take on this banana goodness and share your photos with us on our social media.

What you’ll need:

  • 2 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons of cream cheese
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup mashed ripe bananas
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons dark rum, (or rum flavoring)
  • 1/2 teaspoon lime zest
  • 2 teaspoons lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

  • 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans
  • 1/4 cup flaked coconut
  • Topping
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons lime juice
  • 2 teaspoons dark rum, or rum flavoring
  • 2 tablespoons chopped toasted pecans
  • 2 tablespoons flaked coconut

What to do:

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F
  2. Lightly grease two 8×4 inch loaf pans
  3. Beat together 2 tablespoons of softened butter and cream cheese in a large bowl until fluffy.
  4. Slowly mix in the sugar until
  5. Add the egg and mix well
  6. Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl
  7. In a different bowl, mix together the bananas, milk, 2 tablespoons rum, lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla extract; stir well.
  8. Pour part of the flour mixture into the butter and mix well
  9. Mix in half of the mashed bananas
  10. Continue with another portion of the flour, followed by the remaining banana mixture
  11. Add the remaining flour
  12. Add the pecans and coconut flakes
  13. Pour the mixture into the loaf pans, and bake one hour
  14. When finished, cool for 10 minutes in the pan
  15. Prepare the topping by stirring together the brown sugar, remaining butter, lime juice, and 2 teaspoons of rum or rum flavoring in a small saucepan over medium-high heat
  16. Bring to a simmer stirring continuously
  17. Cook until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth
  18. Remove from heat, and stir in 2 tablespoons pecans, and 2 tablespoons coconut
  19. Spoon this topping over the loaves while they are still warm

Miller’s Dive to Gold in Rio, perfectly legal

Shaunae Miller of the Bahamas won Gold in an unorthodox way during the 400 meter race Monday night. Miller who was neck and neck to American Allyson Felix, dove, or fell, across the finish line beating Felix by .07 seconds.

It looked as if Felix had won in real time but Miller was declared the winner in the results of the video slow motion.

The International Association of Athletic Federations (IAAF) rulebook states:

“The athletes shall be placed in the order in which any part of their bodies (i.e. torso, as distinguished from the head, neck, arms, legs, hands or feet) reached the vertical plane of the nearer edge of the finish line” (Rule 164, IAAF Rules 2006-2007). Meaning, yes, a dive is legal and the Gold medalist for the athlete stands.

The 22-year-old Bahamian worked hard through the lap in lane seven and led the race coming around the bend. As the world champion tied, Miller launched herself over the line to take victory in a new personal best of 49.44s. The verdict of whether Miller was falling and managed to make it over the line, or whether the dive was in an attempt to win the race, is still out.

Felix, 30, won Silver in the run with a time of 49.51 seconds. Jamaica’s Shericka Jackson took home bronze. Felix had hoped to be bidding for a 200 meter and 400 meter double in the Rio Olympics, but failed to qualify for the U.S team after struggling with an ankle injury earlier in the season.

 

On social media, people have taken to accusing Miller of cheating. What people fail to see is that falling over the line, although not a regular occurrence, happens in many races. Last month at the U.S. Olympic trials in Oregon, Felix finished in fourth place in the 200 meter run beat out by Jenna Prandini, who fall across the line won her the spot.

2015 Miss Universe Jamaica stripped of her title

A look at some of the top stories making the news today, August 17th, 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

South Florida police officers are increasing security in light of the recent police shootings around the country. Fort Lauderdale City Manager, Lee Feldman has authorized the emergency expenditure of five hundred and 69- thousand dollars for the purchase of “carriers” for all officers. The carriers will have front and back body-armor plates.

The League of Women Voters will moderate a Candidate Forum hosted by the Haitian-American Democratic Club of Broward County. The event is open to the public in an effort for the candidate’s to voice their stance on matters concerning the Caribbean community in South Florida before the August 30 election. The event is tomorrow at the Deicke Auditorium in Plantation starting at 7 pm.

Marcus Garvey roots extravaganza be held later today at the Lauderdale Lakes Educational and Cultural Center starting at 7. Sponsored in part by the Rootz Foundation Incorporated and the City of Lauderdale Lakes, the event will feature Community Service awards, a live performance by Marcia Ball and a presentation titled “99 Years of Black Lives Matter.”

In Sports,

Jamaica’s Elaine Thompson and Trinidad and Tobago’s Michelle-Lee Ah-yee have secured spots in the final 200 meter race airing tonight at 9:30. The mens 200 meter semi-final begins tonight at 9, with Trinidad and Tobago sprinter Rondel Sorrillo competing against 23 others including Jamaican’s Nickel Ashmeade, Usain Bolt and Yohan Blake.

Let’s take a look at what’s trending

The winner of the 2015 Miss Universe Jamaica pageant has been stripped of her title. At a press conference Monday, principals of the organization said the decision was made on Friday to relinquish the Jamaica born U.S based queen of her role after she filed a lawsuit in the Supreme Court on July 20th. In the lawsuit, she alleged that the organizers breached an agreement to award her a prize package valued at more than two million dollars.

For today’s weather forecast:

Scattered storms in Broward County with a high of 89 and a low of 77. Partly cloudy in Miami-Dade, with a high of 87 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.

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