Select Page ::

2 Altcoins Expected to Maintain Strong Ascension in 2020 – Somag News

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

It has been felt since the first day of the year that 2020 will be a good year for altcoins and the crypto market in general. Especially altcoins, with their performance, the biggest cryptocurrency is called Bitcoin, so to speak.

According to experts, the two altcoins ICON (ICX) and Tezos (XTZ), which made a surprise rally in 2020 and are expected to continue this strong uptrend. Here are the developments that show that ICON and Tezos can perform incredibly this year.

ICON (ICX)ICONs local token, ICX, hit the all-time high of $ 13.16 in January 2018, and began to be called the Ether (ETH) of South Korea. But after the summit, ICX lost more than 99% of its value.

In the past few weeks, cryptocurrency has gained more than 200 percent and has risen above the $ 0.18 level, which is considered to be a very critical level by experts. According to analysts, ICX can rise to $ 0.28 to $ 0.30 in the short term, but if it can find support between $ 0.35 and $ 0.40, a long-term bull run may begin.

There are two reasons for the recent increase in ICON prices; First, the team behind the cryptocurrency has undertaken many developments aimed at increasing the mass adoption of ICX; The second is geopolitical developments. The South Korean government has announced that it plans to promote the growth of Blockchain technology, and ICONs plans and focus of the project seem fully in line with the goals of the South Korean government.

The ICON team recently shared a list of products and services to improve the performance of cryptocurrency. The list includes ICONex, a multi-cryptocurrency wallet, a LoopChain patented Blockchain Core Engine, a unique wallet identifier for the ICONick wallet address, Chain ID, the worlds first Blockchain joint certification service with 26 domestic securities companies and more. According to analysts, ICONs acceptance will increase in the light of all these important developments and the increasing acceptance will be reflected in prices.

Tezos (XTZ)Tezos, which was seen at its all-time low in December 2018 and declined to the 22nd place in the crypto market, did not recover during 2019. Having found support for the rise in November 2019, the crypto coin has been in the uptrend since then, making it 1000% since last year and rising to the 10th place.

Tezos has gained 200% value since the beginning of the year and has also become one of the best performing cryptocurrencies in the market. Experts have not yet been able to pinpoint the reason behind this rise, but positive feelings from many sectors seem to have a large share in this air. Tezos also rose above the $ 2.59 level in early February, and the previous resistance, which was around $ 3.1 in terms of technical analysis, has now turned into support for the XTZ price. For this reason, the uptrend is expected to continue.

The excellent rise of Tezos from the middle of last year to today has provided investors a return of just under 2000% in less than 14 months, and these figures ignited the wick, which will further increase adoption. The increase in the adoption of the cryptocurrency is considered as an indication that the rise will continue.

2 Altcoins Expected to Maintain Strong Ascension in 2020 - Somag News

Doctor Who releases first look at Ascension of the Cybermen – Winter is Coming

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

Patrick O'Kane as Ashad, Jodie Whittaker as The Doctor - Doctor Who _ Season 12, Episode 9 - Photo Credit: Ben Blackall/BBC Studios/BBC America

The Cybermen are here! Good thing humanity has the Doctor and her companions around to save the dayhopefully.

The BBC gave Whovians an early preview of the two-part season 12 finale before it kicks off this Sunday.This first look is full of doom and gloom for the future of mankind as giant planes/ships/machines zoom into the sky through what seems like hyperspace. The clip opens with two characters we havent seen before, but something tells me well be well acquainted with them by episodes end.

Doctor Whoshowrunner Chris Chibnall has promised that the season 12 finale will be very, very epic,and just based on this minute-and-a-half clip, Im inclined to believe him.

Its been a very long time since Whovians have been this excited about aDoctor Who season finale. Just ask Twitter:

I am in absolute agreement over the hype! Season 12 has been nothing short of amazing, and Im eager to see how it wraps up. Weve gotten inspiring stories, incredible dives into history, and a take on the Doctor we havent had before. I think David Tennant and Matt Smith will always be two of my favorites, but Jodie Whittakers version of the character has officially joined them in my top three.

The season 12 finale has a lot in store forDoctor Who fans, and fingers crossed, we will have all our questions answered about the return of the Cybermen, the lone Cyberman, and the Timeless Children. Heres hoping the gang saveshumanity by kicking some major butt!

To stay up to date on everything fantasy, science fiction, and WiC, follow our all-encompassingFacebook pageand sign up for our exclusive newsletter.

Watch Game of Thrones for FREE with a no-risk, 7-day free trial of Amazon Channels

h/tBleeding Cool

Visit link:

Doctor Who releases first look at Ascension of the Cybermen - Winter is Coming

The Ascension First Indie Booking on Thursday with Outlaw Wrestling – – Last Word on Pro Wrestling

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

The Ascension Viktor and Konnor went from being one of the most dominant tag teams in NXT history to a tragic afterthought on the main roster. From 2013 to 2014, the duo set the record for longest title reign of the NXT Tag Team titles at 364 days. Once they were called up, they went on a fast decline in the pecking order of the tag team division, often working as enhancement for other teams or being used in comedy segments, like the Fashion Police. In early December of last year, the duo were released by WWE. The two were booked for WrestleMania Week for Wrestling Revolvers Pancakes & Piledrivers IV in Tampa, but they make their official return to the indie circuit this coming Thursday with New York Citys Outlaw Wrestling.

Viktor began his own wrestling career in 2000, a graduate of the Hart Dungeon, and spent much of his first decade working with Stampede Wrestling in his native Calgary. He joined the WWE in 2011, where he would join The Ascension when it was still a stable. Meanwhile, Konnor started out in 2001 in the Florida indies, where the student of Dory Funk Jr. wrestled for Coastal Championship Wrestling (CCW), before heading to WWEs developmental in 2006. The two make their indie debut as a team against former NXT Superstar Bull James (formerly Bull Dempsey) and one half of Team Tremendous, Bill Carr. The two previously captured the New York Wrestling Connection (NYWC) Tag Team titles in 2013.

Stay tuned to theLast Word on Pro Wrestlingfor more on this and other stories from around the world of wrestling, as they develop. You can always count on LWOPW to be on top of the major news in the wrestling world, as well as to provide you with analysis, previews, videos, interviews, and editorials on the wrestling world.

Go here to see the original:

The Ascension First Indie Booking on Thursday with Outlaw Wrestling - - Last Word on Pro Wrestling

"Doctor Who" Series 12 "Ascension of the Cybermen" Preview Images – Bleeding Cool News

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

For Doctor Who fans, it all comes down to this!

Sorry, but we felt like a "summer movie blockbuster trailer" vibe was the right way to go heading into the first of the two-part Series 12 finale, "Ascension of the Cybermen" (followed by extended 65-minute wrap-up "The Timeless Children"). Between multi-Doctors, a "regenerated" Master, a Timeless Child, and Mary Shelley, the first eight episodes felt like a Michael Bay movie if someone gave two rat's asses about storyline, dialogue, and quality acting.

So why not the Cybermen, right?

Though we're pretty sure the Doctor (Jodie Whittaker), Ryan (Tosin Cole), Yaz (Mandip Gill), and Graham (Bradley Walsh) might have something to say about that

Following the two (???) promos and brief episode overview released for "Ascension of the Cybermen", we have the most recent batch of preview images courtesy of the BBC.

Check them out below, and let us know your theories on not just this episode, but also on how you think this season is going to wrap

"Doctor Who" series 12, episode 9 "Ascension of the Cybermen": The Doctor and her friends must protect the last of the human race against the Cybermen. Written by Chris Chibnall and directed by Jamie Magnus Stone.

With Series 12 close to wrapping up its run, there's buzz that Series 13 will begin filming this fall (with the possible return of a "holiday special", too) with Chibnall and Jodie Whittaker returning:

"Yes, I'm doing another season. That might be a massive exclusive that I'm not supposed to say, but it's unhelpful for me to say [I don't know] because it would be a massive lie! [Laughs] I absolutely adore it. At some point, these shoes are going to be handed on, but it's not yet. I'm clinging on tight!"

Jodie Whittaker

No word on the contract situations for Bradley Walsh (Graham), Mandip Gill (Yaz), and Tosin Cole (Ryan) regarding a retun to the long-running series (though that might also have to do with storyline purposes).

One last thing for those who've been throwing shade at the show since Whittaker and "Team TARDIS" first debuted- you should know that Whittaker's proud of the work they've done and are doing.

But she loves fan artwork

"I've seen loads of fan art, which I always love. But it's never been that great for me to immerse myself in noise that you can't control, good or bad. I think both are a rabbit hole that you shouldn't necessarily go down. We know that we work really hard for the show to be the best it can be in this moment. Once it's out in the ether, how people feel, in a way, is kind of irrelevant."

Proudly serving as TV Editor, Ray started with Bleeding Cool in 2013 as a contributing writer/photographer before being brought aboard as staff in 2017. Counting John Cusack as his pop culture "spirit animal," his "word fu" stays strong as he continues trying really hard to be the sheppard...

twitter facebook square instagram envelope

There Is Hope | Peer Recovery Coaches At Saint Agnes Help Addicts Find Road To Recovery – CBS Baltimore

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

BALTIMORE (WJZ) In the midst of the opioid epidemic, peer recovery coach programs are being implemented in hospitals nationwide.

Ascension Saint Agnes Health Institute was one of the first hospitals in Maryland to launch a Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment in March 2018, to help those facing substance abuse disorder.

SBIRT is an evidence-based practice used to identify, reduce and prevent problematic use, abuse and dependence on alcohol and illicit drugs.

A different characteristic of this approach is the use of peer recovery coaches. The coaches are recovering addicts with at least two years of sobriety that are actively connected to support networks and have gone through extensive training.

Rodney James is one of three peer recovery coaches at Saint Agnes.

A lot of people come in here and they dont know the next step, they dont know where theyre going to go from here and I just want to let them know that there is a chance and there is hope. James said.

Ascension Saint Agnes Health Institute serves the southwest region of Baltimore City and its surrounding counties, making it the second busiest emergency department in Maryland.

We see about 5,500 patients a month, maybe about 300 maybe about 200 patients a day, said Cassandra Dobbs, a social worker at Ascension Saint Agnes.

Coaches conduct up to 15 interventions on an average day.

Heres how it works. Once a patient is admitted into the emergency room, even if its just for flu-like symptoms, theyre screened to determine whether or not theyre at risk for substance abuse disorder. If a patient tests positive, a peer recovery coach is called in.

When we go in to see a patient, the patient sees themselves because sometimes we have to explain to the patient, Im just where you are, I have used and I have been addicted to this substance as well and once they see you, they see the evidence that theres change that can be made. James said.

Hospital leaders say the support of someone who has been down the path before serving as a mentor can make all the difference in helping find a road to recovery.

Since the launch of the SBIRT program at Saint Agnes, approximately 3,500 patients have been screened positively for a substance use disorder and Peer Recovery Coaches have been able to successfully complete 1,600 brief interventions.

Original post:

There Is Hope | Peer Recovery Coaches At Saint Agnes Help Addicts Find Road To Recovery - CBS Baltimore

Ascension Community Theatre opens second weekend of ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ on Feb. 20 – The Advocate

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

Ascension Community Theatre, 823 N. Felicity St., Gonzales, opens the second weekend of its spring comedy, "The Importance of Being Earnest," on February 20.

Performances will begin at 7 p.m. Feb. 20-22 and 2 p.m. on Feb. 23.

The story is a case of mistaken identity, which is carried to extremes.

Oscar Wildes classic follows John Worthing as an English Dandy who pretends to be his own brother Earnest. He uses this as an excuse to leave his dull life behind to visit Gwendolyn.

Meanwhile his best friend Algernon also has decided to arrive under the identity of the nonexistent brother Earnest.

Algernon falls madly in love with the beautiful Cecile, Johns ward, who has been enamored with the fascinating brother Earnest. John, longing to be engaged to Gwendolyn, finds himself in a tight spot when Lady Bracknell refuses to consent since he is not able to reveal who his parents are.

So who is Earnest? Visit Ascension Theatre to find out as this charming comedy of four passionate lovers trying to conform to expectations and double lives unfolds.

This production is directed by Kevin Harger. Tickets are $15-$25 by calling (225) 647-1230 or visiting actgonzales.org.

Physician Who, Ascension of the Cybermen: The top is the start is the top – BingePost

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

Welcome again to Look of the Week, celebrating the most effective in TV and movie sartorial excellence, previous and current throughout sci-fi, horror, fantasy, and different style classics!

Many column inches have been devoted to the sartorial prowess of Particular Agent Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson), whose pantsuits over the past 20-plus years have charted the altering silhouettes, from billowy to sharp tailoring. Scullys affect on girls going into STEM careers is well-documented, and he or she little doubt had an affect on the wardrobe of girls within the office. Watching The X-Information as a young person is what sparked my low-key obsession with this specific garment. For some, it was Marlene Dietrich in high hat and tails that cemented this adoration, however my gateway was Scullys sensible styling.

Fortunately, since Scullys first day on the job, the choices accessible have expanded past boxy shoulders and outsized silhouettes. Moreover, her wise workplace apparel just isnt the one facet of her wardrobe we should always have fun, which is why Look of the Week is shining a giant flashlight on Scullys outerwear in honor of her birthday this weekend (February 23).

Over 11 seasons, Scully has worn rather a lot of coats, from the outsized FBI-approved trench to polyester windbreakers superb for coping with no matter forest terrain her accomplice Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) has dragged her to. Because the 90s are nonetheless dominating tendencies (as a result of nothing is stronger on the subject of type comebacks than nostalgia), Im selecting to deal with Season 1. Plus, quite a lot of basic X-Information situations are depicted on this journey by outerwear.

The pilot does kick off in a forest, however again in Washington, D.C., Scullys first day on the workplace look is smart pants paired with a double-breasted jacket with a delicate plaid twist. In a wonderful level of costume continuity, Scully wears this garment on the aircraft to Oregon, suggesting she would not have a closet filled with blazers at this early stage. To underscore her preparedness, she makes positive to carry the suitable seasonal apparel. Gateway to Enjoyable & Recreation is the slogan indicated on the Bellefleur signal as if the 2 are mutually unique which is why Scully is forest-ready along with her clothes.

There are particular indelible photos from the X-Information pilot: the primary handshake between the brand new companions, Mulder checking a panicked Scully for tell-tale marks through candlelight, and the shot of the pair having an impassioned dialog within the pouring rain. The latter is an efficient reminder that your out of doors jacket is just going to take action a lot in opposition to the weather if it would not have a hood. Positive, for filming functions a hood will cut back the dramatic visible of the scene and muffle dialogue, however you will thank us in case you put money into a water-resistant garment that may also defend your head.

Each Scully and Mulder maintain with the informal aesthetic because the investigation progresses, however youll be able tot take the FBI agent out of the type equation. Though they seem like theyre on a team-building out of doors retreat which, I assume technically that is beneath the parka lies an Oxford shirt with denims (Scully) and a denim shirt with khakis (Mulder).

Later within the season, one other case takes them to the Olympic Forest within the Pacific Northwest, which provides costume designer Larry Wells the possibility to lean additional into the woodland part of her wardrobe.

Earlier than she met Mulder, did Scully wish to hike or go for a run within the woods a la Clarice Starling at first of The Silence of the Lambs? Unclear, however as quickly as she received this gig and realized simply how a lot time can be spent open air, she headed to the mall and invested in a distinct heavy-duty cagoule with a touch of daring mid-90s shade. Shes ditched the muted shade from the pilot for one thing that will not act as camouflage within the foliage. It is a bugs case, not a Bigfoot one, so the visibility angle is not a problem. She nonetheless hasnt received a hood so there is no such thing as a defending her in opposition to the moist climate. And with that single sentence, Ive by some means become my mom.

In Darkness Falls, Mulder jokes about Bigfoot chomping on flannel, impressed by shirts we see hanging within the deserted cabin. Scully eschews the on-theme plaid type, sticking to denim and a vest thats pre-Patagonia and The North Face hitting the mainstream. Theres a dorkiness to her out of doors get-up thats endearing, however this teal and pink accented parka can be thought of forest stylish almost 25 years later.

It is usually value noting that in a bunch of males sporting muted tones, Scully, because the lone lady is wearing female colours. Even the silhouette of the jacket emphasizes her waist, which is not like the opposite outsized outerwear she sports activities for almost all of the season.

Scully lays down her out of doors comfy-meets-style sword earlier within the season after they head to Alaskas Icy Cape within the Factor-inspired Ice. Right here, she serves up a fur-hooded win that reveals she just isnt in opposition to shopping for full-body protecting clothes. Carry mittens, Mulder helpfully tells her whereas going by the case within the heat and security of their basement workplace as a result of quickly they are going to be knee-deep in parasites and paranoia.

Her selection of flannel coupled along with her scarf and comfy cream coat additionally make her stand out subsequent to her accomplice in muted tones and the patented scorching man henley. Adventures in sub-zero temperatures will change into a reasonably common affair however you always remember your first time! The reboot was missing the Arctic journey, denying the inevitable Canada Goose wardrobe monopoly.

Coats match for a snowstorm are pointless for many of their travels round the US and again dwelling in Washington D.C., which is why for these cooler temps, Scully opts for a timeless trenchcoat. Nevertheless, the outsized nature of this garment (that started its life throughout WWI, therefore the title) rapidly dates it. The ditch itself is a staple piece however the mid-90s positive did go arduous on an outsized theme for just about each clothes kind.

Scullys romance with an overcoat of this type begins in Episode 10, Fallen Angel, avoiding the basic beige for a muted brown. Her assortment would increase to characteristic a spread of FBI accepted impartial shades. The outsized design this decade favored would additionally turn out to be useful when making an attempt to hide Gillian Andersons IRL being pregnant through varied props, counters, and costumes.

The fantastic thing about outerwear is the way it mirrors the best way actual seasons cycle over time: type shifts after which comes again into style. Scullys costumes have advanced through the years as any real-life wardrobe does, however there are enduring threads between 1993 and once we final noticed her in 2018. With that in thoughts, for a woodland hike, a snowy trip, or a neat addition to your energy go well with aesthetic, the type reality could be present in Scullys Season 1 closet.

More here:

Physician Who, Ascension of the Cybermen: The top is the start is the top - BingePost

Ascension school officials ready information campaign for voters before May 9 bond election – The Advocate

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

GONZALES Ascension Parish school district staff are preparing flyers, direct mail and media ads to bring information to the public about the property tax extension proposal on the May 9 ballot.

DONALDSONVILLE The Ascension Parish School Board agreed Tuesday to call a special election on May 9, 2020, asking voters to extend an existi

If approved, an existing 15.08-mill property tax would be extended for 20 years to fund $140 million in school construction, including a $79.5 million high school in Prairieville, a $27 million makeover of East Ascension High School and $7.5 million to install artificial turf in the stadiums at each of the four high schools, as well as the new one coming to Prairieville.

Success! An email has been sent with a link to confirm list signup.

Error! There was an error processing your request.

GONZALES After studying and fine-tuning a list of proposed school construction projects, the Ascension Parish School Board's Strategic Plann

Jackie Tisdell, the school system's public information officer, told the board's strategic planning committee on Tuesday that the school district has completed 138 construction projects in the last 10 years.

"We had at least one construction project on every single campus across the district" over those years, she said.

Information on those projects will be included in the campaign.

Open house meetings for the public to learn more about the bond election will be held on:

The early voting period for the May 9 election is April 25 to May 2.

Also on Tuesday, Superintendent David Alexander announced that board member Pat Russo has been named president-elect of the Louisiana School Boards Association.

Two board staff promotions were also announced: Chad Lynch, formerly the director of planning and construction, has been named chief operational director, and Jeff Parent, formerly supervisor of maintenance, has been named director of planning and construction.

Follow this link:

Ascension school officials ready information campaign for voters before May 9 bond election - The Advocate

5 Female Chefs In The Caribbean Who Are Changing The Way We Look At Food – Forbes

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

Women have long ruled the kitchens of the Caribbean, but sadly the restaurants of the region do not depict this norm. Surveys have revealed anywhere between 7 percent and 20 percent female representation within the global restaurant sector the Caribbean is no exception to this reality.

But a female counter-culture is slowly beginning to emerge. In privately owned professional kitchens, women like Manuela Scalini, Patrice Harris-Henry, Maria Jackson, Taymer Mason and Britta Bush are responding to the Caribbeans outwardly looking culinary industry and offering novel dining experiences that are changing the way the Caribbean and the rest of the world looks at food.

These are not just food professionals they are revolutionaries. They work outside the confines of a food system that is dominated by processed and imported foods with high rates of hunger, malnutrition, obesity and non-communicable diseases. They are redefining the Caribbean nutritional and gastronomic paradigm with naturally delicious locally sourced food innovations. And whats more they are doing it in a field that is overwhelmingly dominated by men.

Manuela Scalini Plant based chef and wellness gastronomy consultant

Manuela Scalini

Manuela Scalini wants her clients to experience the sensory panorama of what it means to live a plant-based lifestyle.

Born and raised in Brazil and educated at the Living Light Culinary Institute in California, and in Bali where she studied yoga and raw food, Scalinis culinary beginnings were as a raw food chef. She has since metamorphosed to a plant-based and transitional lifestyle practice, which is individualized and flavoured with the eclecticism of sacred traditions from different cultures.

I believe in plant based foods acting as a catalyst for a deep and long term wellness transformation.Food as medicine. Clean, wholesome foods, using ingredients that are close to their natural state and as local and organic as possible, she says.

Based in Barbados for the past decade, Scalini is well-known for restorative detoxes, pop up dinners, plant-based education and transformational retreats that integrate clean, natural and organic foods with wellness practices including meditation and yoga. Scalini has also achieved global recognition for her Amazon retreats that combine wild food foraging, plant based cuisine, yoga, meditation, tribal rituals and rainforest hikes.

Scalini is currently working an artisanal line of plant based pantry staples a counter-cultural response to the highly processed vegan fake food market. She is also developing a wellness gastronomy consultancy.

Scalini has infused her passion for health & nutrition, the environment and ancestral healing traditions into her gastronomy practice. She believes in the old adage of you are what you eat but also strongly advocates that, you are how you eat. Her focus is on healing by using a holistic approach to integrate the body and mind.

Says Scalini, To live a plant based lifestyle is about more than just what you eat.

http://www.manuelascalini.com

Patrice Harris-Henry Caribbean indigenous food savant

Patrice Harris-Henry

Take a look at a breadfruit tree and tell me, what do you see? Most of us see smoky delicious roast breadfruit or fried breadfruit chips. Ask Jamaican chef Patrice Harris-Henry the same question and she will tell you she sees roast breadfruit, fried breadfruit, breadfruit salads, breadfruit pies, breadfruit fritters, breadfruit porridge, breadfruit lasagne, breadfruit soup, breadfruit juice, curried breadfruit She can go on all day if you let her.

With a degree in Food Service Production and Management, Harris-Henry is a culinary magician, morphing indigenous foods into wonderful creations. She sees what the typical person does not see in undervalued but highly nutritious and delicious local produce.

As a Jamaican woman from humble beginnings, my first foray into cooking was resourceful as a matter of necessity, explains Harris-Henry. Today, as a trained chef, I understand the value of local foods from the perspective of health, the economy, the environment and of course for gastronomic pleasure.

As the Director of culinary events company, The Reggae Chefs Jamaica, she capitalizes on Jamaicas multi-billion dollar brand, making traditional local dishes and her clients come alive with the unique flavour of Jamaican gastronomic edutainment.

As a trained educator and Executive Chef of The Reggae Chefs hunger charity, Mission:FoodPossible Harris-Henry trains food insecure Jamaican communities to see locally-growing foods as versatile and delicious instruments to alleviate hunger and malnutrition.

Harris-Henry waves her arm in the air, holding up an imaginary mirror to the agriculture sector and sings in her animated dialect, look at all that we can do with our MVPs! [Most Valuable Produce]

Through her work with Jamaicas MVPs Patrice Harris-Henry is teaching local communities how to be resilient, self reliant and of course, very well fed.

Instagram: @ thereggaechefsja and @mission_food_possible

Maria Jackson Organic gourmet chocolate maker

Maria Jackson

Given its rich organic soil, Saint Lucia has among the finest cacao beans in the world and Maria Jackson, who is a pastry chef by profession, had a life long dream of starting her own line of craft chocolate.

In 2011, Jackson began to innovate with organic cacao beans, which resulted in the conception of indigenous artisan chocolate company, Cacoa Sainte Lucie.

For me the vision behind my chocolate first and foremost is love for confections, she explains. I grew up in Saint Lucia during a time that we didnt make chocolate. We never fully explored the full potential of cacao beans. I really saw an opportunity of agro-processing beyond just the typical export and I invested my all in this business of craft chocolate.

Handcrafted from bean to bar and consisting of only organically grown Saint Lucian chocolate, cocoa butter, sugar and local spices, the Cacoa Sainte Lucie line includes 60 and 70 percent gourmet dark chocolate and an up and coming 88 percent chocolate product. Among her other products are pure organic cacao nibs, cocoa tea powder, dark chocolate covered almonds and boxed chocolate truffles with various fillings.

Jackson also offers Bean to Bar tours in her community of Canaries, where she goes to great lengths to support the local economy and women in particular.

Craft chocolate is similar to fine wine, says Jackson of Cacao Saint Lucie. There is little to no processing involved. We allow the true flavours of the cocoa beans to come through. It is a beautiful sensory experience; given that the beans are so close to their natural state, there are so many flavour profiles.

http://www.cacoasaintelucie.com

Taymer Mason Food scientist redefining vegan food

Taymer Mason

Moringa ice tea Green banana pizza crusts Sour sop fish Carrot lox walnut meatballs. Noni cultured cheese Vegan food scientist, ecologist, educator and advocate, Taymer Mason, is redefining the way the world looks at plant based food.

The Barbadian chef and best-selling author of acclaimed vegan cookbook Caribbean Vegan (The Experiment, 2016) recently migrated to the United Kingdom where she is re-launching her movement of sustainable food innovation from the Caribbean.

True root meat, a high protein gluten-free meat substitute made of pea protein, coconut and cassava, which Mason frequently fortifies with moringa powder, is a central ingredient of her practice.

Ninety percent of vegan meats contain gluten and soy protein which carries various well-documented health risks. Not only is True root meat delicious, but it is also healthier than other meat substitutes, she explains. True Root Meat is also a key element in Masons arsenal in the fight against global hunger.

Masons Barbadian pop up, Tays Kitchen used the flavourful meat alternative in a line of Caribbean vegan versions of well-loved favourites such as pepperoni and Jamaican patties.

Also central to Masons practice is a staunch zero waste ethos. I see value in foods that often get thrown away, she explains. Over ripe produce such as bananas and breadfruit can be a key ingredient in so many delicious dishes.

Mason will be teaching at retreats in the south of France in September; this will be one of her first projects as she debuts her Caribbean vegan culinary creations to a wider audience.

My advice to anyone working on your passion is do not limit yourself and see yourself as a global citizen. I am ready to make a global impact.

Instagram: @sustainabletaymer

Britta Bush Queen of kombucha and fermentation

Britta Bush

Plant Based Chef Britta Bush loves three things: local, plants and fermentation.

The Owner of Saucha Cayman, Bush says that the motto #peaceloveandfermentation, is quite evident in everything she creates. Bush started off brewing her own curated kombucha flavors in 2008, which are made with her homegrown 12 year old culture, triple filtered Kangen water and Guyanese Demerara sugar, and are sold island wide.

Bush enjoys experimenting with the natural, seasonal flavours within her local Cayman Islands. Client favourites include organic and non-GMO Green Popcorn made with coconut oil and spirulina, a delicious menu of Disco Soups, inspired by the Slow Food Movements mission to combat food waste, as well as house ferments, such as Purple Sauerkraut, Powerkraut, Kimchi and locally grown Pickled Okra.

Sourdough bread is another one of Bushs fermented passions, a true labour of love that requires a 36-hour fermentation process which encourages depth of flavour and nutritional value.

Bushs integrated approach to consciously-crafted, plant based and gut-healthy gastronomy includes private chef services, meal delivery, retreats, kombucha brewing and Fermentation Nation classes as well as events that integrate food with the arts. Bush also supports like-minded local businesses, such as Delaneys natural handcrafted soaps, made from aged kombucha vinegar, at her in-house Booch Bar.

For me, conscious eating is not only about the consumption of nutritious and healing foods but also about being socially and environmentally responsible, says Bush. We promote a locally-grown, plant-based, healing foods, with a focus on fermentation lifestyle. We love collaborations with fellow artisans, entrepreneurs and local businesses that educate in a delicious way while supporting the local community.

http://www.sauchaliving.com

Continued here:

5 Female Chefs In The Caribbean Who Are Changing The Way We Look At Food - Forbes

Finding Bequia secret is out on vacation paradise in the Caribbean – Worcester Telegram

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

"You're going to Bequia?" friends had asked, "to write about it?" The implication being they'd hoped to keep their vacation paradise in the Caribbean a secret. I, with a slight sense of guilt, was flying there to, well, "out" their idyll.

Bequia, from the air, gleams like an emerald drop in the variegated blue and green necklace of the remote archipelago Saint Vincent and Grenadines. All seven square miles of it is home to 5,000 people of African, Scottish and Island Carib descent. It's off the beaten track just enough to stave off hordes of tourists, but idyllic enough to beckon adventurous spirits.

Enter Bengt Mortstedt, the jovial Swedish-born former lawyer, and self-proclaimed "accidental hotelier." In the early 1990s he and his family were beguiled by Bequia while on a sailing vacation through the Grenadines. "It was unspoiled, a rugged beauty," he said. While walking the milelong Friendship Beach, a few years later, he spotted a For Sale sign in front of an old, closed B&B. The rest is history. On New Year's Eve 2009 his creation, the Bequia Beach Hotel, was born on nine acres fronting the sea.

The luxury hotel is refreshingly unpretentious: a modern take on colonial Caribbean architecture, known for its playful colors and relaxed charm. Mortstedt's model for the hotel riffs on the '50s, imbuing the property with the nostalgia of seaside resorts of yesteryear. If a picture is worth a thousand words, then the collection of retro-style travel posters created by California's Kerne Erickson, placed throughout the property, speaks volumes on the realization of Mortstedt's vision.

Each of the 58 guest rooms, suites and private villas displays its own personality while they're united in designs that include four-poster beds cocooned in white voile canopies, vintage rattan furniture, contemporary bathrooms and spacious terraces. The panoramic view from my 700-square-foot Beachfront Suite embraced the beach: palms and thatched umbrellas anchored in the sand, while the island of Mustique rested on the horizon.

Interconnecting paths meander around gardens flush with flowers, shrubs and old growth trees tended by Matthew, master gardener. On Wednesdays, guests can follow him and his green thumbs on a horticulture tour. A section of the garden slopes up a hillside where one of the property's three restaurants, Blue Tropic, serves Italian food. Further up the hill is perched a selection of varied accommodations whose views are spectacular. The largest of these is the 4,860-square-foot Estate Villa replete with its own kitchen, infinity pool, two master bedrooms and two twin bedrooms. A butler and a chef at your service, if you please.

A second infinity pool, hillside, is available for all hotel guests, but each morning at 7, I chose to swim in the spacious pool a stone's throw from the beach. The first morning it rained cats and dogs but the pool water was warm and I was willing. Within minutes the sun emerged revealing a rainbow arching over the hills. Perfection.

Mortstedt and his son, Philip, have extended their reach to another area of Bequia, Princess Margaret Beach, where Jack's Beach Bar draws customers to curated cocktails and seafood well suited to any princess and her prince. While I lunched on fresh fish and Grenadine greens, kids and adults alike frolicked in the sea below.

The nine-seater Bequia Air VIP Transfer that flew me from Barbados to Bequia is owned by the hotel, so too the Star of the Sea, a luxury 114-foot yacht that guests can rent for private charters along the Grenadines highway of islands. One sunny morning, I joined a group on board and cruised serenely along the Tobago Cays. Near our yacht, a pod of orcas breached in unison until out of view. We snorkeled and swam with the turtles on a tiny Robinson Caruso-like island The yacht staff produced a sumptuous lunch and plied us with unlimited drinks as we wended our way back home into the sunset.

In no small measure, part of the comfort and charm of Bequia Beach Hotel is due to the 240-member staff. Their genuine caring is a gift to each guest. Most come from the island, some from neighboring shores and others from farther away, including five chefs who trained in Europe. After spending a couple of days exploring Bequia, I discovered that almost every member of the staff is a friend or a relative of almost everyone else on the entire island.

That observation came by way of a friend who has lived on the island for many years. Walking through the bustling town of Port Elizabeth, with its fruit vendors, souvenir shops and arts and crafts kiosks was remarkable. Not a minute would go by when she wasn't hugging someone, or another was offering her a new recipe or inviting her to a party. She'd introduce me and mention the Bequia Beach Hotel and immediately the response would be, "Oh, my cousin" so and so or "My brother" so and so works there. Driving up and down the hills of the narrow roads we'd encounter sheep, goats, chickens and tortoises, malnourished dogs, and again, her pals. This time the cars would casually stop in the middle of the road for a chat session. Relaxed has taken on a new meaning here.

We walked the Boardwalk in Admiralty Harbour, where the ice-cream parlor was at full scoop, and white sail boats bobbed in the bay. Climbed high in the hills to the more residential area of Mount Pleasant where the views are nothing short of spectacular. Coming back down to sea level, Lower Bay offers a popular beach where grabbing a fresh tuna sandwich, a cold beer and a plunge in the waves at Da Reef Restaurant and Bar is a Bequia ritual. Nearby is Dawn's, where at sundown we ate at the tiny restaurant owned by a petite woman named, not surprisingly, Dawn. Her smile and home-cooked food were equally enticing.

Despite expensive expat villas dotting the landscape, Bequia is by no means a wealthy island: hand-to-mouth existence for many. Whaling was an industry for years, with the Whaling Museum being a testament to that practice. It is still allowed, but is carefully controlled.

New enterprises are offering means of employment for the Vincentians, as citizens of Bequia are called. I met two young people in Port Elizabeth who are determined to help individuals learn new skills and nurture latent talents. Jessica Jaja is the manager of Bequia Threadworks, which offers free training in sewing, textiles and fashion design. Its aim is to create a stable economy sourcing sustainable materials. The store on Back Street sells clothes that are made onsite. Off the main drag of Port Elizabeth and behind the local bookstore is The Hub Collective run by Colin Peters. With similar purpose as Threadworks, the Hub, also a nonprofit organization, provides creative, entrepreneurial and self-development opportunities for all ages. Their gallery sells original, handmade crafts and art.

Back at the Bequia Beach Hotel, for my last evening, I sipped a cocktail at the open-air bar, dined on lobster with a family from Surrey, England, and listened to a band of local musicians perform late into the night. There's magic on the island, strangers become friends, Bequia's breezes burn into your memory and tourists will continue to come. Sorry, friends at home, I can't keep Bequia your secret anymore.

http://www.bequiabeachhotel.com

See more here:

Finding Bequia secret is out on vacation paradise in the Caribbean - Worcester Telegram

Caribbean islands: Things to know before you go – Newsday

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

In September2017, the Caribbean Basin was ravaged by two massive Category 5 hurricanes, first Irma, and then, only two weeks later, the even larger Maria.

Two and a half years later, all but the most damaged areas on the most devastated of islands are back in full tourist mode. But that doesnt meanall is as it was before the summer of 17, or in the case of the central Bahamas, before Hurricane Dorian struck lastSeptember. Large swaths still bear ugly scars, many villages are still struggling to rebuild, and many non-government-run attractions are still closed or only open on a reduced basis.

To help those thinking about coming on down, here are updates on the five most popular (in terms of numbers) destinations amongAmericans. For the most recent updates, check your potential island destinations government tourism website, and http://www.caribbeantravel.com. One caveat:They may be more interested in highlighting progress than pointing out recovery work that still needs to be done.

The Dominican Republic

Irma passed far enough to the north of the Dominican Republic to not have had any devastating effects. Maria, on the other hand, made landfall along the northeastern coast, but only as a Category 3 hurricane after having dissipated much of her strength in passing over Puerto Rico. Torrential rains led to widespread flooding there, but the storm passed far enough away from the Punta Cana mega-destination, where gusts only reached 60 mph, to only cause minor damage.

Jamaica

Located even farther south and west than Hispaniola (home island to both the Dominican Republic and Haiti), Jamaica was even further protected from the ravages of Irma and Maria by Hispaniola and Cubas high mountains. If anything, the two hurricanes were a relative benefit to Jamaica whose non-cruise tourist arrivals grew 4.6% in 2018 as determined sun seekers steered clear of demonstrably damaged goods.

Puerto Rico

Plan small day trips, big getaways and more.

By clicking Sign up, you agree to our privacy policy.

During her traverse of the island, Maria, which assaulted Puerto Rico as a Category 4 storm, caused an estimated $92 billion in damage and claimed nearly 3,000 lives. In several senses, it is accurate to say that Puerto Rico will never fully recover, and as if to prove it, nearly a quarter-million of its inhabitants have abandoned their homeland for the mainland, presumably forever. Two and a half years on, Marias effects are still omnipresent: 15% to 25% of the islands large trees were toppled (particularly devastated was El Yunque National Forest), with local-level rebuilding progressing slowly, especially in the rural interior. (Ongoing recovery efforts along the southwestern coast have been undermined by the recent spate of devastating earthquakes.)

But only a few luxury hotels remain closed, old San Juan has been scrubbed clean, and all the islands beaches are open, though access to offshore Vieques and Culebra remains spotty. As a result, tourism numbers are back up to pre-Maria levels, though some of that is attributable to the travel restrictions reimposed on rival destination Cuba by the Trump Administration. But theres another compelling reason for visiting Puerto Rico now: putting your vacation money to work in the slow, but ongoing recovery of this American territory.

Aruba

Arubas location below the Hurricane Belt in the southern Caribbean keeps it from being directly hit by anything other than errant, rogue storms. Irma and Maria were anything but that, and so Aruba, along with all the other islands off the coast of South America (Trinidad and Tobago, Curacao, and Bonaire) were completely unaffected.

The Bahamas

Despite ominous predictions, both Irma and Maria skirted the Bahamas, inflicting only minor damage on some Out Islands. But in September of last year, another Category 5 storm, Dorian, scored a direct hit on the northern Bahamas, first on Abaco, and then Grand Bahama, where it stalled out for a full day. Devastation there was nearly complete, with 60% of the island being submerged. Other than a brief power outage, the main resort island of New Providence (home to the capital Nassau) and other popular islands farther south such as Eleuthera, Cat, and Long Islands, were unaffected. Recovery on Grand Bahama is moving along, but Abaco will remain closed to tourists for the foreseeable future.

The Virgin Islands

Irma scored a direct hit on all three of the main British Virgin Islands (Virgin Gorda, Tortola, and Jost Van Dyke) and St. John and St. Thomas in the U.S.Virgin Islands. Her evil twin then came along and picked off St. Croix. While destruction there was among the worst in the Caribbean, money and material began arriving in abundance shortly afterwardfrom the two parent countries, the result of which is arguably the most thorough (in terms of quality) recovery effort in the Caribbean. Two-thirds of hotels have reopened, but it will be years before the sparse natural vegetation recovers.

Other islands sustaining serious damage where recovery is still ongoing and would-be travelers are advised to check before they book: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Martin, and St. Barthelemy.

By Marshall S. Berdan Special to Newsday

Read this article:

Caribbean islands: Things to know before you go - Newsday

Marriott Adds 10,000 Rooms to its Pipeline in the Caribbean and Latin America – FTNnews.com

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

Marriott International in 2019signed a record 10,000 rooms, across 15 brands and 17 countries and territoriesin the Caribbean and Latin America, marking the companys fourth consecutive year of record expansion in the region.

Last year, the company increased its portfolio in the region to 268 open properties and 55,195 rooms in 34 countries and territories.

In 2019, the company signed 2100 conversion rooms in the region, leveraging its four conversion-focused brands Tribute Portfolio Hotels, Luxury Collection, Autograph Collection and Delta Hotels by Marriott as more owners sought out the power of Marriotts brands and programs. In addition, Delta Hotels by Marriott signed its first deal in the region.

Last August, Marriott launched its all-inclusive program to bring several of its brands, scale and trusted service to this growing, global vacation segment. Less than six months after its launch, the company has signed seven management and franchise agreements for all-inclusive properties representing nearly 3,200 rooms. Among the all-inclusive projects in development are an 800-room Marriott Hotels resort in Jamaica and a 240-room Ritz-Carlton resort in Mexico. The company last year also completed its acquisition of Elegant Hotels Group, which consists of seven hotels and 588 rooms located on the Platinum Coast of the picturesque island of Barbados.

Catering to the next generation of travelers, the companys AC Hotels by Marriott, Aloft and Moxy brands continue to expand rapidly in the Caribbean and Latin America, signing a combined 1,284 rooms in 2019. These affordable lifestyle hotel brands deliver a fresh approach to the traditional hotel landscape and are built around the pillars of design, approachable service and vibrant experiences.

We had a landmark year for hotel transactions in the Caribbean and Latin America in 2019, fueled by the hotel development communitys demand for our leading business support and loyalty program, our attractive brands and strong owner interest in our new all-inclusive brand extensions, said Laurent de Kousemaeker, Chief Development Officer, Marriott International. With a growing pipeline of 146 hotels and resorts totaling over 24,000 rooms, we are poised for solid growth in this region, providing more opportunity to drive engagement with our loyalty members.

See original here:

Marriott Adds 10,000 Rooms to its Pipeline in the Caribbean and Latin America - FTNnews.com

Yo Ho, Yo Ho! This "Waters of the Caribbean" Candle Will Bring Back Disneyland Memories – POPSUGAR

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

If a pirate's life is the life for you, please take a whiff of Etsy's "Waters of the Caribbean" candle. Thanks to shop owners Mort and Co, you can get a candle inspired by Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean ride. There's no denying the signature smells that come with the park's rides, and although this specific candle makes no promise of a chlorine aroma, you should be able to detect salty sea air, ozone, citrus, plum, cardamom, amber, and dark musk during its 50-hour burn.

One customer described the candle as "wonderful" while another confirmed it "brings back the wonderful feel of the happiest place on Earth." Yo ho, yo ho, sounds like a relaxing life to me! If you're in the market for another candle to add to your collection, you can shop "Waters of the Caribbean" ($20) on Etsy.

Image Source: Etsy

See the article here:

Yo Ho, Yo Ho! This "Waters of the Caribbean" Candle Will Bring Back Disneyland Memories - POPSUGAR

Murder and White Privilege on a Family Holiday in the Caribbean – The New York Times

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

In 1995, on a nameless Caribbean island, an American family is on holiday. The Thomases are no better or worse than any of the other upper-middle-class white tourists who are also vacationing in sultry Indigo Bay, with its everywhere weeping pink blooms and brazen teal water. But the night before they are supposed to go home, the older of the couples two daughters, 18-year-old Alison, is nowhere to be found. Within a couple of days, her body is found dead in a nearby cay.

I started reading Saint X, the debut novel by Alexis Schaitkin, believing I was about to get yet another tale of a beautiful young woman and her mysterious death. And I was in no way averse to that; theres something mesmerizing about taking apart a persons last days, about being presented with an ideal, and then figuring out the truth of who the victim really was. And the book begins by offering what most novels of this kind offer a fetching, charismatic, somewhat volatile heroine. One who is pure enough that you feel the enormity of her loss, but slick enough to be interesting. We witness everything through the eyes of Claire, Alisons younger sister and our protagonist, who, looking back on the episode in adulthood, recognizes this duality: My sister was an innocent, blameless in her horrific fate. And it was all her fault.

Claire, who was 7 when the tragedy occurred, becomes obsessed with understanding not just what happened to Alison, but who she was. But around 70 pages in, the details of this family drama start to take a back seat to the larger story Schaitkin is really trying to tell (and this is where Saint X flowers): about a single death that affects an entire community.

Any death of course creates aftershocks among those closest to the deceased, but we rarely spare a thought for those on the fringes. Schaitkin does, demonstrating in no more than a few pages each how Alisons passing affects her various satellites: her teacher, roommate, a random man on holiday, an actor, the girlfriend of the suspect and so on. The connections are faint, the domino effect crystal clear.

See the rest here:

Murder and White Privilege on a Family Holiday in the Caribbean - The New York Times

These Are The Highest-Rated Snorkeling Spots In The Caribbean (On Trip Advisor) – TheTravel

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

The Caribbean is home to over 7,000 islands, 26 countries,and has some of the most exquisite views in the world. With white-sand beaches, coral reef formations, and crystal clear water, theCaribbean has become a haven for travelers looking to immerse themselves in island living.

With pristine water conditions, water sports are extremely popularthroughout theCaribbean. Boating, jet-skiing, and diving are all favorites among travelers but snorkeling has got to be one of the most popular activities among tourists visiting theCaribbean. It's an up-close-and-personal way to see tropical fish, hover above the coral, and see the world from a fish's eyes. And while there are oodles of places to visit in theCaribbean, check out these five spots if snorkeling is at the top of the list!

The small island of Aruba shouldn't be defined by its size. It's home to some of the most glorious terrain and has more to offer than its beaches. There's a natural pool, cactus plantations, and even a National Park! However, if snorkeling is the end-game for a trip to theCaribbean, then be sure to check outThe Arusun: Aruba Catamaran Sail With Snorkeling in Aruba.

RELATED: Aruba Has More To Offer Than Just Beaches And All-Inclusive Resorts

With a five-star-rating fromTrip Advisorand over 600 reviews, this snorkeling trip was rated Travelers' Choice in 2019. Snorkeling aficionados will hop on a65-foot catamaran and explore theCaribbean Sea for two and a half hours. Two destinations worth traveling to in Aruba are the Antilla shipwreck and Boca Catalina Bay, which snorkelers will be able to see for themselves on this tour!

At the tip of the Dominican Republic, we can find the gorgeous region of Punta Cana. The country may be popular for its zip-lining through its lush jungle but snorkeling is also a top contender when visiting Punta Cana.

The Punta Cana Small-Group Sailing and Snorkeling Catamaran Tour is highly praised onTrip Advisorwith five stars and 700 reviews. For three hours, small groups make this snorkeling experience personal and informational, getting loads of attention from the instructors. Travelers will explore the depths of Cabo Engao, Bavaro Beach, and other spots while snorkeling. There's even a small break at a sand bar where they'll whip out a floatable bar!

The Cayman Islands consist of three islands: Grand Cayman, Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac. Grand Cayman is the largest of the three and will be a traveler's meeting point when looking to join the Cobalt Custom Charters cruise to snorkel. This snorkel adventure was rated number two out of 94 tours in George Town on Grand Cayman and has a five-star rating onTrip Advisor.

This charter can last for up to four hours and will take snorkelers to the barrier reef, Starfish Point, andStingray City! You'll be able to swim with fish, see the starfish for yourself, and even swim around stingrays. It's a gorgeous area with almost 300 stellar reviews and ends with a drink at a local beach bar! Cheers!

St. Thomas is one of the many islands apart of the US Virgin Islands. St. Thomas is one of the bigger and more popular islands of the Virgin Islands and that's largely in part due to its stunning snorkel spots.

OnTrip Advisor,Turtle Cove Catamaran Snorkel and Sail Adventure at Buck Island is highly rated (five stars) and lasts for three hours. If there are any turtle lovers or admirers out there, this is the snorkeling trip for you. TheBuck Island National Wildlife Refuge is known for itsgreen sea turtles at Turtle Cove and snorkelers will be able to see them in their natural habitat (along with tropical fish, of course!).

On the island of St. John in the town of Cruz Bay,Palm Tree Charters takes snorkelers on the time of their lives. Out of 49 tours in Cruz Bay, Palm Tree Charters was ranked number one and has over 1,200 marvelous reviews!

Depending on the experience swimmers are looking for, there are hundreds of areas to pick from that this charter can make happen because it's a private charter. This means that snorkelers can have their freedom with amazing attention while exploring the Carribean Sea.

NEXT: The Safest Caribbean Destinations (And Dangerous Places To Avoid)

These Mexico Resorts Are Safe (And Totally Worth The Price)

African Americans, Afro-Caribbean Americans, And Addiction – Addiction Center

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

The Relationship Between African Americans, Afro-Caribbean Americans, and Addiction

A study conducted by the American Journal of Health found that African Americans have a lower rate of addiction (11.5%) compared to whites (12%), but a higher rate of addiction when compared to Afro-Caribbean Americans (9.6%). This difference is most pronounced among women. African American women have an addiction rate of 6.3%, while Afro-Caribbean women had a 2.8% rate of addiction. Historically, first generation Afro-Caribbean Americans have lower rates of addiction, possibly due to social and spiritual beliefs that differ than other cultures. However, second and third generation Afro-Caribbean had high er rates of addiction compared to first-generation Afro-Carbbeans.

Dont waste another second. Enter your number to receive a callfrom a compassionate treatment expert.

Contact a treatment expert at (855) 826-4464

The opioid crisis affects thousands of American each day, not excluding black Americans. While most of its victims are white Americans, many minorities are affected as well. Race and class have factored into how black people have been diagnosed and treated. According to a New York Times article, until disturbingly recently, doctors were leery of prescribing black patients with opioids. The reasons being the beliefs that black patients would sell prescription drugs, didnt need them, or theyd become addicted.

This may have prevented opioid overdoses in the black community. However, the lack of proper medical care that black patients received may have caused them to look elsewhere for medications or suffer more than white counterparts. Research has disproved stereotypes doctors have made about black patients selling drugs and have disproven beliefs black patients will get addicted.

Despite this, the number of fatal fentanyl overdoses in the black community continues to rise. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Non-Hispanic black persons had the largest annual percentage increase in rates from 2011 through 2016 (140.6% per year). Sadly, black patients are less likely to have access to buprenorphine, which reduces opioid cravings, making them more likely to suffer overdoses, and are also the least likely to have financial access to care.

Crack cocaine has been one of the most reportedly substances abused in the black community. From the 1970s and 1980s, an influx of crack cocaine made its way into the African American community, particularly in inner cities, sparking what President Ronald Regan called, the War on Drugs. This sparked numerous anti-drug campaigns in America, which often showcased African Americans using crack cocaine in the inner-city communities. Many in America could not understand or empathize with African Americans abusing crack cocaine, and racial stereotypes became more crystalized, which led to significant disparities in treatment and incarceration.

Contact a treatment expert at (855) 826-4464

Similar to members of the LGBTQ community, African Americans and Afro-Caribbeans have endured minority stress. Racial profiling, police brutality, and violence within some communities within the black community, unequal professional and educational opportunities, and many other challenges and frustrations disproportionately affect the black community. This can cause minority stress, which can manifest as anxiety, depression, feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, and other mental and emotional consequences that can lead to substance abuse disorders.

Although 20.4% of the African Americans and Afro-Caribbean Americans report drinking alcohol in the last month, alcoholism is one of the 3 leading causes of death in these communities recent years. African Americans who consume alcohol suffer more health-related problemsthan other groups; death from cirrhosis was 1.27 times more common in African American and Afro-Caribbean communities than whites. Furthermore, alcoholism in the black community resulted in a 10% higher death rate, and black people received fewer health care benefits when compared to other races.

Additionally, African Americans drank less than whites, but drank in larger amounts when they did drink. Essentially, on average, African Americans drink less frequently than their white counterparts but struggle more with binge drinking.

Treatment options are available for a host of ethnicities and faiths. Furthermore, some facilities offer gender-specific treatment. Getting treated for alcoholism or drug addiction should be done in the care of a professional facility with 24-hour monitoring, providing patients more support for their recovery. Individuals have access to innovative holistic treatments they would not have access to if detoxing at home. Support groups and counseling are also available. All-inclusive treatment facilities are available to assist you or a loved one heal. Contact a compassionate treatment professional today, and get your life back on track.

Read the original:

African Americans, Afro-Caribbean Americans, And Addiction - Addiction Center

Pirates of the Caribbean, Indiana Jones rank among best Disneyland rides – Deseret News

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

ANAHEIM, Calif. Disneyland has so many rides. The rides span from one end of the park to other. Theres some in ToonTown, others in Adventureland and then some in Fantasyland. Theres just so many rides to enjoy.

I decided to experience plenty of rides for my first visit to Disneyland. I wanted to maximize my experience as much as I could so I sampled a slew of rides to see which ones stood out.

Its hard to defeat Indiana Jones Adventure in terms of quality. Its a thrill ride from beginning to end. The music swells around you. Guests are given a top experience that is really unmatched. Theres a reason why the wait time for this ride is always so long. Lots of people want to experience the breathtaking ride. Its definitely a must-ride for first-timers and anyone who visits Disneyland thereafter.

I have to be honest. Space Mountain ranks so high on my list because I rode in the front seat of the ride. You see nothing but black skies and bright stars. The ride jerks you around, cutting one way and then dipping another. Its a wild ride through space. I wish the Star Wars Galaxys Edge rides would have done something similar. But Space Mountain is its own unique experience that is truly hard to beat.

The dips, the dives, the cuts and the turns of Big Thunder Mountain create a thrilling experience. Add in the outdoor element of the sun and light breeze and it is a perfect ride to get you through the day, especially when you need something fun to lift your spirits.

This is the OG. Spinning a tea cup, whipping the center plate around. It just doesnt get better than the Mad Tea Party. You leave in a daze youre definitely dizzy and losing balance. Its such a fun experience thatll have you and your friends laughing.

Look, I get it. Were sick of Johnny Depp and Captain Jack Sparrow. But as we await Pirates of the Caribbean 6, checking out the original pirates ride is well worth it as Disneyland. The muggy rooms, the small waves and the swashbuckling pirates provide a creepy, dark and fun experience that makes you remember what made the original POTC film so exciting.

I had no idea what to expect with Soarin but it was definitely one of the most entertaining rides at Disneyland. Lifting high into the air, moving slightly backward you definitely feel like youre flying in the air. There were several times where we dipped toward the pyramids or the ocean when I thought I was legit going to hit water. Such a fun time and well worth the wait.

Its nice to take a gentle ride through the water and the jungle, especially when youve been walking around all day and need a break. But a lot of this depends on your captain. Some captains are funnier than others. My captain was sort of funny but she was throwing too much shade at us on the boat, which made us feel a little uneasy about whether we should laugh at our experience.

The wait was five minutes so I decided to check out this ride. It was zany, crazy and ridiculous. But in a way, it was the perfect Disneyland ride. It was so silly that it brought me back to what it felt like to be a child. I love how it made me feel young again. Being an adult is hard. Just laugh while youre on a ride. Its just a ride, after all.

This was my second ride of the day. I got soaked. It wasnt even the final descent that got me. It was a random sputter of water from one of the holes in the side. I got super wet from this ride and had to dry off the rest of the day. But its a Disneyland classic one you cant ignore.

Look, its a short ride. Waiting 50 minutes for maybe five minutes of ride doesnt seem like great return on investment. But theres magic with Peter Pans Flight. Soaring over London is an amazing experience. Seeing Peter Pan and Captain Hook battle is cute, too. Its a nice and simple ride to pass the time as you wait for something more. Definitely worth a look.

Similar to Jungle Cruise, this depends a lot on your host. The ride is cute and romantic. But my boat was in danger of tipping since one side of it had four people and the other had close to seven (including yours truly who is, for lack of a better phrase, a little bigger). But the messages and references to Disney movies are cute and entertaining. Definitely a good late-night ride to cap off the evening.

Read the original here:

Pirates of the Caribbean, Indiana Jones rank among best Disneyland rides - Deseret News

Pirates of the Caribbean to Close for Annual Refurbishment on May 11th in Disneyland Paris – wdwnt.com

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

This post may contain affiliate links; please read the disclosure for more information.

It has been announced that Pirates of the Caribbean will be closed for most of May in Disneyland Paris.

The attractions annual refurbishment calls for an all-hands-on-deck approach, meaning the ships will be anchored from Monday, May 11th, and will be reopening for pillaging and pirating on Saturday, May 30th. As we know, all rides need down time to keep them in tip-top condition, but its always hard to see them closed off.

Have no fear, as there will still be plenty going on in the Disneyland Paris resort during the Pirates temporary parley. This includes the incredible Marvel Season of Super Heroes, which will run from March through until June!

In the meantime, have you seen the newest television commercialfor the Disneyland Paris resort? It features all our favourite attractions, and the new slogan: Where Magic Gets Real.

See original here:

Pirates of the Caribbean to Close for Annual Refurbishment on May 11th in Disneyland Paris - wdwnt.com

Pirates of the Caribbean to Close for Refurbishment at Disneyland Paris – Inside the Magic

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

According to the Disneyland Paris website, the beloved Pirates of the Caribbean ride will be closed starting May 11 and should be expected to remain closed through almost the rest of the month. While the Disneyland Paris Resorts website does not currently show ride openings or closures past May 22, Disneyland Paris site, ED92 reports that Pirates will remain closed until May 30, 2020.

[RHABILITATION] L'attraction Pirates of the Caribbean sera ferme pour sa rhabilitation annuelle du lundi 11 mai au vendredi 29 mai 2020 inclus. Rouverture le samedi 30 mai 2020.

Posted by ED92 onThursday, February 20, 2020

Pirates of the Caribbean is an iconic Disney IP. Originally opening at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, each Disney theme park around the world hosts its own version of one of the last attractions directly supervised by Walt Disney, allowing all guests a chance to enter the world of Captain Jack Sparrow. This closure, while routine in nature, will no doubt bring disappointment to those Disniacs planning a late Spring getaway to Disneyland Paris.

Related: HUGE SAVINGS: Special Discount Offer on Disneyland Paris Tickets Going on Now!

Pirates of the Caribbean is not the only ride or attraction closed at Disneyland Paris Resort during the month of May. Here is the Closure Schedule for other attractions at Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park:

All rides closed in May are scheduled to remain closed through May 22, 2020. Inside the Magic will monitor and update this article as Disneyland Paris Resorts full schedule continues to be revealed.

Planning a trip to Disneyland Paris? Our friends at Academy Travel are here to help. Backed with years of experience and award-winning customer service, Academys travel agents know what it takes to work with you and help you create the best possible Disney vacation for your budget. Click here to learn more and receive your free, no-obligation quote today!

Related: Disney in Plain English: Disneyland Paris Has Until 2036 to Build a Third Park

Pirates of the Caribbean to Close for Refurbishment at Disneyland Paris - Inside the Magic

Pirates of the Caribbean 6 theory: How Disney can fix the POTC franchise – Deseret News

Posted on February 24, 2020 by Danzig

The main lesson: dead men tell no tales but Disney surely does. And Disney needs to bring back the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise with a new story one thats actually being told right now in the Disneyland ride.

On a recent visit to Disneyland, I rode the Pirates of the Caribbean ride for the first time. The ride is a thrilling one, to say the least, and its no surprise it launched a film series that raked in billions of dollars.

The ride has something of a story. We see dead pirates laid out on beaches, covered with coins. We see pirates fighting and then invading a village. The back-and-forth battle between the royals and the pirates exists in plentiful numbers in the ride. And weve seen that plenty of times throughout the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise.

But theres a hidden story going on inside the ride that we should take note of. It might be the storyline for Pirates of the Caribbean 6 a long-rumored film that has yet to be released.

During the ride, theres a brief moment where the pirates hunt for Captain Jack Sparrow. He hides in a barrel right next to them, fooling the pirates as Jack Sparrow normally does. The hunt for Jack Sparrow is something weve heard about the Pirates films often include Jack on the run from someone who wants to capture or kill him.

But maybe the secret to finding a storyline to Pirates 6 would be to focus on someone who is on the hunt for Jack Sparrow. Not to defeat him, not to capture him, not to send him to the depths of the ocean. Maybe Pirates 6 can be about people searching for Jack Sparrow because he holds the truth to something important.

Early rumors for Pirates 6 suggest it will include a female lead. Karen Gillan and Emma Watson are rumored to star. There are some rumors that the franchise wants to move on from Jack Sparrow and focus more on a new star, rebooting the franchise to build a new audience. Theres also another rumor of a Disney Plus version of Pirates with a younger Jack Sparrow.

These rumors suggest that theres some hemming and hawing about the future of the franchise. Does Disney bring back Jack Sparrow? And if so, in what form? Do they bring back Johnny Depp who has been making headlines for assault charges with his ex-wife Amber Heard and risk people not finding his character entertaining? Do they start with a younger Sparrow on the streaming platform? Do they totally reboot the franchise?

Look, Disney has invested a lot in Jack Sparrow. He became the face of the franchise. He became the lead character of the entire film saga. You think of POTC and you think of Sparrow. Theres no question. Hes a big part of the ride. Hes a huge part of merchandise. There will never be a day when he is not associated with the franchise.

The Hunt for Jack Sparrow idea can work on two fronts.

It would allow the franchise to keep Sparrow in the story without actually having him in the story. Think of Luke Skywalker in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. He doesnt appear until the final few minutes. But hes a central character because the entire story is centered on characters trying to find him so he can save the Resistance and stop the First Order.

Allowing a character like Watson or Gillan to search for Jack Sparrow would certainly be that opening. It would allow Disney to keep Jack Sparrow in the story without actually having him in it, solving the issue about the film becoming too formulaic.

And then theres the ultimate twist: The film is a prequel.

Lets say Watson finds Sparrow toward the end of the film. But its a younger sparrow, one from way before Depps age, who is just getting started. Disney could recast the character, avoiding any of the potential controversy with Depp (and allowing Depp to step away from the franchise, too).

Somehow, Watsons character would give something to Sparrow that would influence his life. She would put him on the right course. Then, Disney could launch a Disney Plus show centered around young Sparrow. And the film franchise could continue with Watson at the helm, leading a new band of pirates.

Watson (or Gillan) could lead a new set of films that happen before Sparrow becomes a big name. But knowing these characters helped inspire young Sparrow adds value and importance while allowing Disney to move on from a Sparrow-filled franchise.

Its just a theory. But the thought popped into my head while riding the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. The ride is too fun and popular to not keep the franchise going. But its important for Disney to find a plausible next step to keep the film centered in the POTC universe while also providing something fresh and new.

Well see where it goes. But if Disney is looking for the opportune moment, this is it.

Pirates of the Caribbean 6 theory: How Disney can fix the POTC franchise - Deseret News

Select Page ::