Wishful thinking. There is no guarantee when, where, if and how much of Barack Obama’s tenure he will attempt to erase. He more than likely would be even more harsh.

He could demand that FATCA be immediately brought forward and the sanctions be immediately instituted.

It could be sad for us, very sad indeed.

We have seventeen more days or even less, to find out if President Trump even remembers that he ever visited TT. The Hillary Clinton campaign managers did not know which way he was heading.

What gives Mrs Persad-Bissessar inside knowledge and the surety that President Trump will fall in love with TT and the UNC? Understandably, we are not expected to be high on his agenda as he works his way setting up his administration.

Laugh if you will that I am being facetious but it is more likely that Trump would ask “So, who is she?” Is she a friend of my friend Vladimir Putin? I join with the entire Banking and Business community and other citizens of TT, with being very, very worried indeed.

Lynette Joseph Diego Martin

No amount of talk, threats or “interventions” by the authorities is going to make any difference to the people of Trinidad and Tobago who willfully break the law year after year and do so with joy and wild abandon. The level and intensity of noise this year has been insane. A neighbour of mine sets off devices which rattle my glass cabinet and sets me and my family on edge and which also lands on our roof. We are helpless to do anything about it.

If we go back to carbide and bursting bamboo as Mr Abraham keeps lamenting as a consequence of banning fireworks, etc then, so be it but I honestly doubt that the citizens of TT would do so. That would be considered regression for these individuals who are fireworks sophisticates and who pride themselves on being able to out buy one another and make the loudest of noises.

I know that I am not alone when I say that I long for peaceful celebrations in this country once more especially New Year’s Eve and not be filled with dread. It’s such a contemplative and sentimental time.

I always wonder about people who have lost loved ones at this time or those who are suffering otherwise – where is the respect and consideration for them? And I don’t mean by that that people should stop living and enjoying themselves but is such noise and mayhem on a grand scale really a necessity for joy and celebration? The old adage, “Silence is golden” has never been more true or apt.

PS: It’s now 7.10 pm and my neighbor is setting off outrageously loud scratch bombs and fireworks. I have called the police and I feel as though I am the nuisance and bother. From the response that I received I know that nothing will be done. This has happened on several occasions. Someone recently said to me that it’s the law in Trinidad to break the law and I’m afraid that that seems to be quite true.

Ley-Ann Sui Chaguana

What about the mothers of children who are directly involved in gang violence? Young people who are caught in the crossfire of bandits fighting over turf? What about the families who become collateral damage because they live at the wrong address during a fight for supremacy? They are far more vulnerable as there is nowhere to run and nowhere to hide. These are the people who must make an impact on the validity of any march against crime and criminality.

When dealing with crime “All ah we is one family”.

The recent story in the Express of persons being pelted with scratch bombs as they walked around the Queen’s Park Savannah in the vicinity of the US Embassy, smacks of a deliberate attempt to incur the wrath of America.

Mischief to make the National Security Minister look bad? Why? Who in their right mind, makes noises that sound like gunshots near an American embassy? Acts of arson to supermarkets that will bring out people to loot for food, where do they originate? Can everything be classified as random anymore? Any march for peace must involve all the stakeholders.

There is less money floating around in TT .

The Forex market is on its deathbed. There are less customers for the drugs and guns. Personal territory is dwindling and people are killing themselves into a corner. The answers lie with the people who control criminal activity.

Not with the people who can afford the security guards and heavy wrought iron doors.

The fight will have to be down on the ground.

Lynette Joseph Diego Martin

People’s National Movement’s (PNM) candidate for Parlatuvier/ L’Anse Fourmi/ Speyside Marissa Williams said that even at this stage she is confident of taking the seat.

“I remain very focused on what I have to do,” Williams said.

“I know that I have to bring this seat home and I am working very, very hard towards doing that. What I want to bring to this electoral district is to bring effective representation and shared vision because at the end of the day, this is for all of us.

I am not going to tell them that I have come to do this or that, the residents will have an idea what they want to see their communities look like and I want to be able to work with them and represent them in making their vision and our vision come true.” Meanwhile, Hayden Spencer, also representing the PNM, said that while his electoral district of Goodwood/ Belle Garden will be keenly contested, he was looking forward to a landslide win.

PNM incumbent for Lambeau/ Signal Hill, Jomo Pitt, described his chances to be, “as good as anybody else.” “The area won’t get anything new. I would say the same level of commitment to the community and to the electoral district, definitely something will have to change, we can’t be doing the same thing and expecting the same results. Having said that, I still have the commitment to the community and the electoral district and I will strive to make Lambeau/ Signal Hill a better place,” Pitt said.

On the Tobago Forwards (TF) bandwagon, candidate for Roxborough/ Delaford Anthony Price, a newcomer to the political arena, described the process as “fairly straightforward”. He said that he is well aware of the ills of the community and for too long this electoral district has been under served. This he intends to change.

TF candidate, Barry Nelson, said he is currently on the ground.

“I continue with my walkabouts and listening to the cries of the people which range from jobs, the perennial problems of water among other things,” Nelson said. “The people of the area need change and I would be the next representative of Lambeau/ Signal Hill.” And Bacolet/ Mt. St. George’s Orwin Dillon, also of the TF, said that he has always been an advocate for the people and this he would like to continue.

“My chances are great. I have always represented people within the Agricultural sector and I think that the time has come to make a bigger representation on behalf of the people within my community and on the island as a whole,” Dillon said. Another TF candidate, Steve Jack, on the other hand noted that the people have once again called on him to serve them.

FITUN said, “what is playing off in the Petrotrin case is an attempt to institute a government wage policy on the trade union movement, and, they believe that if they can be successful against the most powerful trade union in the country, then all the other unions would have to fall in line.

We wish to remind the public that another FITUN member, the Communication Workers Union (CWU), was also faced with a 0%; 0%; 0% wage offer for their 2014-2016 wage negotiations.” FITUN said it is in solidarity with the OWTU in its threat to take strike action against Petrotrin from today following the breakdown in negotiations for the periods 2011 to 2014 and 2014 to 2017. And in a statement, FITUN condemned, what it says is, the misinformation and inconsistent statements from Government spokesmen, Stuart Young (Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister) and Finance Minister Colm Imbert on the issue.

FITUN said Young has said that no directive was given to Petrotrin’s management to offer a zero percent wage increase for the two periods while Imbert said that no State body was authorised to make any offer on wage negotiations without express directions from the Inter Ministerial Negotiating Committee

The aim here is to prevent and/ or lower your potential risk for disease and associated complications.

Initially making changes may be a bit difficult, but taking small steps such as waking 30 to 45 minutes earlier to include physical activity like walking and running, eating a nutritious breakfast, drinking water instead of sugary fruit drinks or sodas, choosing healthy snacks, and reducing dietary intakes of foods high in fat, sugar and salt just a few modifications you can make in your daily plan. By now you can conclude that these modifications listed are valued lifestyle practices. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (2013), the main focus is primary prevention of disease, this approach has proven to be quite effective and affordable method in reducing an individual’s potential risk; dietary intervention can positively impact health outcomes across the life span.

Studies conducted show that chronic diseases are preventable through lifestyle intervention.

Therefore, choosing to work diligently towards eliminating contributory risk factors such as physical inactivity, obesity and/ or overweight, unhealthy diet (low in dietary fibre, rich in fat, sugar, and salty foods), elevated blood pressure, blood glucose (blood sugar), and cholesterol levels, and tobacco consumption and alcohol abuse is a good plan.

Hence, “health promotion and disease prevention efforts are rather essential for delaying premature death, improving quality of life, and reducing the economic burden on the healthcare system (Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 2013).

What can you do to maintain your health? Working together as a family unit or community group can sometimes make it easier, as you will already have the support that you might need. Though others can remark managing weight is not always easy. A good rule of thumb to keep in mind is that energy intake should be equal to energy output; for if energy intake exceeds energy output weight gain results (simply meaning that if you may be eating more than you need by having larger portions, or consuming foods high in calories, and engaging less frequently in physical activity); the opposite is also true as when energy intake is lower or you have implemented portion control, and increase your physical activity level, weight loss is more than likely to occur.

You can also calculate your body mass index (BMI). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention documented that the BMI is used for population assessment of overweight and obesity. BMI is calculated by dividing one’s weight in kilograms by square height in meters. “It is an indicator of high body fatness and used to screen for weight categories that may probably lead to health problems, but is not diagnostic to body fatness or health of an individual.” Interpreting the BMI for adults 20 years and over: less than 18.5 (underweight) 18.5 – 24.9 (normal or healthy weight) 25.0 – 29.9 (overweight) 30.0 and above (obesity) Research shows that diet and participation in physical activity can help. Benefits associated with physical activity include aids in management of blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels; weight management; improves cardio-respiratory fitness; builds healthy bones, muscles and joints and lowers one’s risk for colon cancer; psychologically it reduces feelings of depression and anxiety, improves mood and promotes a sense of well being, and decreases risk for stroke (Nyam News, Caribbean Food and Nutrition Institute, 2008).

The recommendation is “regular participation in physical activity of at least 150 minutes of moderate- intensity aerobic activity (include walking briskly, hiking, light yard work, actively playing with children, biking), 75 minute of vigorous activity (eg jogging/ running, swimming, roller blading, cross-country skiing, football, basketball, jumping rope), or an equivalent mix of two each week (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Check with your medical doctor if prior to starting physical activity.

Daily meal plan The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (2013) documented that the total diet or the overall eating pattern of the person should be the main focus of healthy eating.

Considering that eating practices which are usually dynamic and influenced by several factors such as culture, food choices, weight concerns, attitudes and beliefs, economics, environment, media/marketing, and perceived product safety.

The registered dietitian can assist client in making wise food choices.

For, having knowledge about nutrients and their sources can aid you in choosing nutritious foods. Begin your daily meal plan, by choosing foods from the “Six Food Groups;” ensure that you include a staple (eg bread, cereal, ground provision, brown rice, whole grains, roti, and pasta), foods from animals (meat, fish, chicken, eggs, milk and milk products), legumes, fruits and vegetables in the meal plan.

You can drink water between your meals.

From this example, you can see that having a variety of foods in your diet will provide a wide range of nutrients, and using the food groups will assist you in planning balanced meals.

Take time out for you Other helpful hints include manage your stress, include some time to rest and relax in your schedule.

Remember, that prioritising, organisation, and planning are essential keys that can help you to better manage work-related stress or stress in the home environment.

It is important to pay attention to work-life balance; this indicates balancing your job/career and lifestyle. Therefore, spending quality time with family and friends, and taking time out to relax or recharge can be very beneficial.

Claudette Mitchell, PhD, RD – Assistant Professor, University of the Southern Caribbean, School of Science, Technology and Allied Health

Resolution 1. Eat More Omega-3s Solution: Seek out seafood.

Getting more foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids might just help you keep your blood pressure down. In the multinational INTERMAP study, researchers found that among 4,680 healthy adults, those who consumed the highest amounts of omega-3 fatty acids in their diets had the lowest rates of hypertension.

Research also suggests that omega-3s can help improve your mood, which we all need a little help with in the short, dark days of winter. Aim to get two servings of fish a week, particularly fatty fish, such as salmon, sardines and some types of tuna, which are rich in omega-3s. Not a fish lover? Opt for walnuts and flax, which are good non-fish sources of omega-3s.

Resolution 2. Pile On The Veggies Solution: Get out the roasting pan.

The majority of people don’t eat the daily recommended three or more servings of vegetables, according to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If you’re of the mindset that “vegetables don’t taste good,” but know you should eat more of them since they’re teeming with healthy nutrients and fibre, get out your roasting pan.

Roasting vegetable caramelizes their natural sugars so they taste fantastic. It’s an easy way to cook veggies for dinner—pop a pan of them in the oven and make the rest of dinner while they roast.

Resolution 3. Up Your Fibre Intake Solution: Experiment with whole grains.

Getting enough fibre may help prevent cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and a number of cancers.

And eating more fibre may help you slim down. But the average person eats about 14 grams a day — the recommended daily intake is 21 to 38 grams. One of the easiest ways to up your fibre intake is to eat more whole grains.

Quinoa, wholewheat couscous, bulgur and polenta are all quick-cooking options to add to your weeknight repertoire.

Resolution 4. Eat Less Meat Solution: Learn to like tofu more.

A popular reason to cut back on meat is for environmental reasons, but you’ll be helping your heart too. When you replace meat with soy, you’ll naturally eat less saturated fat—and research shows that saturated fat increases LDL. While tofu might not have a real “flavour,” that’s what makes it so versatile—it soaks up the flavours of a stir-fry sauce or marinade like a sponge, making it taste terrific! Resolution 5. Rein in Your Sugar Addiction Solution: Make low-sugar treats to satisfy your sweet tooth.

People eat too much sugar. We consume 355 calories — or 22 teaspoons — of added sugars a day.

The American Heart Association advises that we eat much, much less than that.

Luckily, you can still make treats that satisfy your sweet tooth and cut back on your sugar intake at the same time.

(eatingwell.com)

Eve and Williams were speaking on the heels of an alleged situation that caused two national footballers — Daneil Cyrus and Jomal Williams — to get sent home from a training camp and later dropped from the squad for the Gold Cup qualifiers starting today.

National head coach Tom Saintfeit told the media he decided to send home Cyrus and Williams after they arrived to camp 90 minutes late.

According to Saintfiet, winger Joevin Jones failed to report to camp while Kevin Molino had initially declined to take part but then changed his mind. Saintfiet said he decided to omit Molino from the qualifiers as he had missed the training camp for the Nicaragua friendlies in December.

This is just the latest incident where the commitment of TT footballers has come into question. On August 30 last year Molino, Joevin Jones and Mekeil Williams broke camp to attend a party days before a World Cup qualifier against Guatemala.

The players were fined for their actions. Molino later committed another indiscretion and was banned for two World Cup qualifiers.

Eve said he was unaware of the full details into what transpired between Cyrus and Williams (Jomal) and the national coaching staff, but believes indiscipline in TT football is becoming a problem.

“It is alarming that so much players are now involved in (these situations).

It seems like players don’t want to play for their country anymore,” he declared.

“I don’t want to get down on the players in any way but I would say is that people should just be honest.

I think we’re missing honesty, if you do not want to play just say you don’t want to play instead of making yourself look bad, putting yourself out there for people to say bad things about you, just say I don’t want to play or I don’t want to represent the country at this point in time and people have to respect your decision at the end of the day.” Eve acknowledged that when he was a national player there were situations of indiscipline but said there was still a level of respect for the national colours.

“Boys will be boys. None of us were perfect, we all had things that we would have done that coaches may not have liked, but at the end of the day it boils down to respecting the game and we have to remember that the game is giving us the things that we have in life.” Eve, who coaches at the secondary school and Pro League levels, admitted it is a challenge to manage an entire squad of players. “It is very difficult because each player comes from a different home, they come from different values and they always say that the most important thing in coaching is man management and respect. Man management is knowing that I could talk to you one way but I can’t talk to another player the same way because he won’t react to it similarly.” Brian Williams, a former Strike Squad defender, admitted he is worried about the indiscipline among TT footballers. “Definitely it will be very concerning because this is something we have to look into seriously, as coaches try to avoid situations of such indiscipline and other than that it is important that we instil the level and maintain the level of discipline within the football team. Williams, who is now the national Under-20 coach, also spoke about the importance of man management.

“Besides coaching the team, what we call man management is an important part. You (must) show equity and show that rules and regulations are being maintained concerning the footballer. That is something we need to look at seriously.” Williams further explained, “favouritism sometimes may kick in where you discipline certain players and you make other players do certain things, but you must try to keep that balance throughout so the players will know where you’re at.”

Effective January 1, 2017, PUMA is the TTO C, Trinidad and Tobago Commonwealth Games Association and Team Trinidad and Tobago (Team TTO ) podium, lifestyle, training, competition and presentation wear partner.

The TTO C’s multiple Olympic cycle partnership with Adidas came to an end on December 31, 2016 and it was reported that the decision not to renew the partnership was amicable.

President of the TTO C, Brian Lewis, thanked Adidas for its commitment to the TT Olympic movement.

Lewis said yesterday, “we have built such good friendships and partnerships with Adidas over the last four Olympic cycles and they have been so supportive of all our initiatives including the marathon walk.

They always made sure I had the best shoes, the best everything, even the eye wear.

They paid attention to every detail.” Lewis stated that the collaboration between TTO C and Adidas at the 2016 Rio Olympics was a highpoint. “The design of the Rio 2016 collection remains a high point for me in the relationship. It took about three years of meetings with the TTO C, designs going back and forth.” The TTO C president said despite some criticism, the performance of the TT athletes have encouraged brands to take notice. “One of the critical strategic boxes that has to be ticked for a global brand is your performance. The fact that the TTO C, contrary to views, showed even in Rio that there was the potential for the future. You look at all the finalists with the exception of Cleopatra Borel, they (are) in their early twenties. The future appears very bright for Team TTO in the context of the Olympic Games and going to the Olympic Games.” Lewis added that the TTO C continues to take the initiative in an effort to develop the national athletes. One such initiative was a Michael Johnson (former USA 200m and 400m Olympic champion) Workshop, which was held in December.

“You have to keep pushing the envelope because change is the only constant and you have to keep building your brand equity and your brand value and your brand proposition and that is what we have worked at doing,” Lewis declared.

Getting the action underway will be Cane Farm against Central Sports at 10am while Cane Farm play Queen’s Park at 2pm.

The UWI T20 tournament will be officially declared open following a ceremony at 5pm and signing off for the day will be Central Sports vs Queen’s Park at 6pm.

A total of $70,000 worth in prize money will be on offer for the tournament which is in its fourth year of existence.

The winners this year will collect $35,000.

Former TT and West Indies wicketkeeper and vice-captain, as well as current Queen’s Park Cricket Club president Deryck Murray, is the patron for the 2017 competition.

The teams participating this year include Club Crusoe (Tobago), defending champions, Demerara Cricket Club (Guyana), Merry Boys, Munroe Road, Police, Defence Force, Moosai Sports, Central Sports, Cane Farm, Duncan-Buggy Haynes United, Queen’s Park and UWI.

Season tickets are available for purchase at The UWI SP EC, the Campus Bookstore, and the Student Guild office.

Further inquiries can be directed to The UWI Campus Registrar’s Office (662-2002 ext.82000) or to the Co-Chairman of the Organising Committee, Dr Trevor Alleyne (trevor.alleyne@sta.uwi.

edu/662 9294 or 645- 3232 ext. 4642).

Today’s schedule: Cane Farm vs Central Sports (10am) Cane Farm vs Queen’s Park (2pm) Central Sports vs Queen’s Park (6pm).