Oct. 22, 2001 – Environmental Association of St. Thomas-St. John will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday to discuss the proposed rezoning of Botany Bay.
EAST will present, in photographs and text, information on the Botany Bay property and its unique natural and cultural resources. Developers have proposed building a large resort complex and gated community on the property, which is presently designated for low-density residential development.
The meeting will be held in Room 224 at the University of the Virgin Islands Sports and Fitness Center.
The EAST board recently voted unanimously to oppose the rezoning, based on lack of information and the potential for adverse impact on what is one of the largest and most pristine tracts of land left on St. Thomas, EAST president Carla Joseph said in a release. EAST hopes this meeting will address the public's many questions about the proposed rezoning.
In addition to being home to some of the island's healthiest remaining coral reefs and endangered species, Botany Bay is also rich in history. Artifacts from ancient Amerindian villages and plantation-era relics are abundant, and new archaeological discoveries are being made regularly.
Research by local historian David Knight indicates that at least a hundred slaves worked on the plantation, and thus there is a potential that there may be slave burials somewhere on the property.
This research and the developer's Archaeological Phase I report are on file at the Coastal Zone Management office of the Planning and Natural Resources Department. The material is available for public viewing, according to a DPNR spokesperson.
EAST has also signed on to a community petition calling for a resource management plan to be put in place before any development occurs.
Ideally, Joseph said, Botany Bay would become the "cornerstone of a territorial park system", as recommended in a 1993 V.I. government analysis. She said the area would be the perfect place to develop both eco-tourism and local knowledge about natural and cultural history.
"If that is not possible, we need to take every step to preserve what we can, and ensure that development occurs in a very sensitive and careful way," she said. "Our organization remains very concerned about following proper procedures.
"We continue to hope that the government will act with extreme caution when it comes to Botany Bay," Joseph concluded.
AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY SEEKS MEMBERS
The American Legion Auxiliary – the first truly patriotic women’s organization in the country, is looking for new members on St. Croix.
The local American Legion Auxiliary-Bromley Berkley Unit 133 has recently reorganized and has undertaken a membership drive. The Unit, which meets the third Sunday of every month, was originally chartered in 1970.
Meetings are held the third Sunday of each month, 4 pm at the USO Building, Market Street, Frederiksted.
Under the guidance of the newly installed President, Emily Tranberg, the unit looks to bring National American Legion programs and benefits to the members and community at large.
The National programs of the American Legion Auxiliary include:
— Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation – aid and service to our veterans
— Poppy Program – Distribute, for a small donation, of poppies that represent the sacrifices made by veterans. Donations go to veterans programs.
— Children & Youth – programs address child safety, juvenile justice, the problems of missing children, drug and alcohol abuse, teenage pregnancy and teen suicide
— Auxiliary Emergency Fund and Displaced Homemaker Program – established to help with temporary assistance to the Unit member who is in a financial crisis and provide financial grants for members who need training to enhance their skills to return to the job market.
— Education – The organization recognizes the value of a good education and members donate and raise millions of dollars for scholarship programs. Throughout the country Auxiliary units participate in Adult Literacy programs.
— Heart of America – annually spotlights outstanding local and national educators and media professionals for their significant and important role in our communities.
— Girls State/Girls Nation – At these sessions, high school juniors learn leadership, patriotism, self-worth and confidence that helps prepare them to take their places as productive and successful members of our society.
— Junior Activities – Another Auxiliary youth program, the Junior program, prepares the Auxiliary's young members to carry on with the work of the organization. The Junior program assures the organization's growth and continuity and teaches the fundamentals of leadership and service to our future members at the Unit, District, Department and National levels.
— Citizens Flag Alliance – an apolitical, non-partisan confederation of organizations and individuals who wish to protect the United States flag from public physical desecration.
With a strong membership the goals can be accomplished. Membership is open to all women whose husbands, sons, fathers, grandfathers serviced in World Wars I and II, and the Korean or Vietnam War, or conflicts in Grenada, Lebanon, Panama or the Persian Gulf War. All women with direct connection to a veteran is urged to attend an auxiliary meeting to learn more about the organization and join.
From the American Legion Auxiliary website.
"With almost a million members from all walks of life, the Auxiliary administers hundreds of volunteer programs, gives tens of thousands of hours to its communities and to veterans, and raises millions of dollars to support its own programs as well as other worthwhile charities familiar to most Americans. It is all accomplished with volunteers.
The Auxiliary, organized in 1919 to assist The American Legion, is much more than the name implies. The organization has achieved its own unique identity while working side-by-side with the veterans who belong to The American Legion. Like the Legion, the Auxiliary's interests have broadened to encompass the entire community.
The American Legion Auxiliary is the world's largest women's patriotic service organization. Through its nearly 12,000 Units located in every state and some foreign countries, the Auxiliary embodies the spirit of America that has prevailed through war and peace. Along with The American Legion, it solidly stands behind America and her ideals."
For more information please call Emily Tranberg at 772-1438.
The local American Legion Auxiliary-Bromley Berkley Unit 133 has recently reorganized and has undertaken a membership drive. The Unit, which meets the third Sunday of every month, was originally chartered in 1970.
Meetings are held the third Sunday of each month, 4 pm at the USO Building, Market Street, Frederiksted.
Under the guidance of the newly installed President, Emily Tranberg, the unit looks to bring National American Legion programs and benefits to the members and community at large.
The National programs of the American Legion Auxiliary include:
— Veterans Affairs and Rehabilitation – aid and service to our veterans
— Poppy Program – Distribute, for a small donation, of poppies that represent the sacrifices made by veterans. Donations go to veterans programs.
— Children & Youth – programs address child safety, juvenile justice, the problems of missing children, drug and alcohol abuse, teenage pregnancy and teen suicide
— Auxiliary Emergency Fund and Displaced Homemaker Program – established to help with temporary assistance to the Unit member who is in a financial crisis and provide financial grants for members who need training to enhance their skills to return to the job market.
— Education – The organization recognizes the value of a good education and members donate and raise millions of dollars for scholarship programs. Throughout the country Auxiliary units participate in Adult Literacy programs.
— Heart of America – annually spotlights outstanding local and national educators and media professionals for their significant and important role in our communities.
— Girls State/Girls Nation – At these sessions, high school juniors learn leadership, patriotism, self-worth and confidence that helps prepare them to take their places as productive and successful members of our society.
— Junior Activities – Another Auxiliary youth program, the Junior program, prepares the Auxiliary's young members to carry on with the work of the organization. The Junior program assures the organization's growth and continuity and teaches the fundamentals of leadership and service to our future members at the Unit, District, Department and National levels.
— Citizens Flag Alliance – an apolitical, non-partisan confederation of organizations and individuals who wish to protect the United States flag from public physical desecration.
With a strong membership the goals can be accomplished. Membership is open to all women whose husbands, sons, fathers, grandfathers serviced in World Wars I and II, and the Korean or Vietnam War, or conflicts in Grenada, Lebanon, Panama or the Persian Gulf War. All women with direct connection to a veteran is urged to attend an auxiliary meeting to learn more about the organization and join.
From the American Legion Auxiliary website.
"With almost a million members from all walks of life, the Auxiliary administers hundreds of volunteer programs, gives tens of thousands of hours to its communities and to veterans, and raises millions of dollars to support its own programs as well as other worthwhile charities familiar to most Americans. It is all accomplished with volunteers.
The Auxiliary, organized in 1919 to assist The American Legion, is much more than the name implies. The organization has achieved its own unique identity while working side-by-side with the veterans who belong to The American Legion. Like the Legion, the Auxiliary's interests have broadened to encompass the entire community.
The American Legion Auxiliary is the world's largest women's patriotic service organization. Through its nearly 12,000 Units located in every state and some foreign countries, the Auxiliary embodies the spirit of America that has prevailed through war and peace. Along with The American Legion, it solidly stands behind America and her ideals."
For more information please call Emily Tranberg at 772-1438.
OCTOBER 2001 BRAINSTORM
For a long time, creativity was seen as relating mainly to the arts; more recently, it has been extolled as the holy grail of business. Those two outlets remain important, but maybe it is also time for us to use our creativity for greater things.
Are we up to the task? We can take inspiration from an ad that appeared in "The Times of London" early this century. Here is what it said:
"Men wanted for hazardous journey. Low wages, bitter cold, long hours of complete darkness. Safe return doubtful. Honour and recognition in the event of success." It was signed E. Shackleton.
Ernest Shackleton was looking for crew members on the quest to reach the South Pole. The next morning, more than 5,000 men were waiting outside the office of The Times, wanting to apply.
When the challenges are great, often we respond. Today, the challenges are great.
Now, a few items I hope you will find useful and inspirational:
A Tip for Meetings
The people running an educational innovation program called the Learning Exchange have found that writing big leads to thinking big. They suggest
having meeting participants write or draw ideas on huge poster boards rather than note pads. It makes it easier to collaborate and influences people to be bolder in their thinking and suggestions. It also worked for Walt Disney, who used to have a "Creators Room" with walls totally covered in paper on which writers and artists could write or sketch their ideas for all to see.
Action: Have some blank paper on the walls, or a large chalk or white board where you and others can jot down any ideas pertaining to your current project or activities. Put it in a high-traffic area (one you and others pass frequently) and record any thoughts, no matter how small, strange, or tangential they may be. Harvest these thoughts once a week.
Where to Get Your Best Ideas
A survey by BT and Management Today asked managers where they get their best ideas. Two-thirds of respondents said it was outside of work (only one in thirteen said it happened in meetings or brainstorming sessions). Here are a few locations you might try:
– In the bath (most of us take showers these days because they are faster, but a nice long soak in a bathtub is much more conducive to a flow of ideas).
– On the golf course. Golf is not a great exercise for cardio-vascular fitness, but it does allow you a lot of thinking time. Fishing is similar (you do not have to have any bait on your hook…).
– While doing repetitive exercises at the gym or out running. Take along some way to record your ideas as they come up, either a little tape recorder or just a pad and pencil you keep in your gym bag.
– During the commercials when you are watching TV. Use a brainstorming exercise: try to figure out how what you have just seen could possibly lead you to a solution of some challenge you are facing. Jot down any answers that come up in the minutes that the ads are on.
And a Quote about Dilemmas:
This one comes from Albert Einstein. Writing about the process physicists use to build up an understanding of the universal elementary laws, he wrote:
"There is no logical path to these laws; only intuition, resting on sympathetic understanding of experience, can reach them."
At this moment, everyone is looking for a logical response to what has happened, but maybe Einstein’s direction would be more fruitful. If you have any ideas to share on this topic, please let me have them for future e-bulletins.
‘til next time,
Jurgen
PS: My most recent book, "Do Something Different," has just been published in the United States and is now available on Amazon.com as well as on Amazon.co.uk.
Requests to subscribe (or unsubscribe) should be sent to BstormUK@aol.com.
We also welcome your comments and suggestions and we do not sell or share our mailing lists. Feel free to forward this e-bulletin to friends and colleagues in its entirety, and let them know we always welcome new subscribers (and that is free). (Contents copyright 2001, Jurgen Wolff).
Back Issues Sale! For a limited time (Until end of Dec 2001), you canorder back issues of Brainstorm (our printed 8 page creativity newsletter)for only £1 each! Choose from the following issues and print out the coupon at the end to order:
8. What Is Your Future: strategies and techniques for planning your life, based on the impressive work of a global think tank; A virtual interview with
Carl Jung, Also, the heart-mind connection, a simple technique for quick stress relief.
9. How To Get People To Do What You Want Them To Do: based on Robert Cialdini’s masterful book, ten ways to influence people. Also a review of light/sound brain machines, and the technique of "opposite thinking" with examples from business and writing.
11. Creative Time Management: a right-brain approach to time management, including why the 80/20 rule does not necessarily apply, why faster is not always better, and tips from the three top books on this subject. Also creative ideas relating to working at home; a useful decision-making strategy; and eight ways to do things better.
13. Using The Power Of Asking: ways to ask and get. Also the two types of people to whom you may be trying to sell your idea or product and how to appeal to each. Plus ways to get started when you are stuck.
14. The Power Of Language: a special ten-page issue on matching, re-framing, polarity response, the three-questions rule, and other techniques for becoming a more effective communicator.
16. Three Posters (£1 each): one on creativity, one on goals, one on productivity. Keep these techniques in front of you by putting these posters up in your office or work space.
17. The Power Of Image: key techniques for presenting yourself and your product or service; Also 12 time bandits and how to beat them, and ideas from Rollo May’s inspiring book, "The Courage to Create."
18. Do Something Different: key ways to think and act out of the box in order to achieve success; plus tips from 3 giants in business, and 6 creative approaches to problems, and 8 stress busters.
19. The 80/20 Rule: how to use Pareto’s Principle to get 80% of your results from only 20% of your time and effort. Plus success tips from three successful CEOs; Also; The Quotes File—inspirational and useful quotes; five more ways to cope with time bandits; the power of incubation.
20. The Power Of Dreams: practical ways that your dreams and daydreams can lead you to breakthroughs; 5 case studies of applied dreaming; tips for getting a solid night’s sleep; the power of full spectrum light.
26. Making Dazzling Presentations: techniques for making presentations that excite, inform, and spur the listener to action; Dina Glouberman reveals the secrets of using image work; case studies in how the do something different approach leads to success.
27. The Ripple Effect: Lizz Clarke on how to network without being aggressive; how to use "creative filters"; creative lessons from St. Luke’s, the innovative advertising agency; "eye contact" and " I contact", additional tips for powerful presentations.
28. Do You Have A BHAG?: two students of visionary companies reveal how to use "big, hairy, audacious goals"; a creative visualization technique for putting your vision in focus; Dr. Phillip McGraw’s ten laws of life; how to make affirmations more effective..
29. Robert Ringer’s Million $ Habits: ten habits that lead to creative and business success; a virtual interview with William James, on how to acquire positive habits; a 21 –day plan for success; five innovative ideas that may spark your own creativity.
30. How They Did It: advice from successful entrepreneurs; how to use the "why" strategy for problem solving; tips for right-brain time management; a design for creativity ; and the inspirational "invitation to life."
31. When the Problem is Solved: a strategy for chunking down & solving big problems; inspirational creative ideas; using new combinations for creativity; and ideas you can use for a healthy mind/healthy body combination.
32. Ten New Rules for Staying Ahead: especially useful for free-lancers; six tips for better learning; lessons from the MIT Media Lab; how to make the most of meetings, and a round-up of creativity tips.
33. Beyond Beliefs: how to challenge beliefs that may be holding you back; how to use the creative power of daydreams; the art of re-framing questions for problem-solving; round-up of creativity tips.
* Please fill in the coupon below and post to: Brainstorm, 85 Ridgmount Gardens, London WC1E 7AY (in case of questions, please phone (020) 7580 4997, or e-mail BstormUK@aol.com.
Please send me the issues circled, for only £1.00 each (except 16, which is
£3), including postage:
8 9 11 13 14 (16=£3) 17 18 19 20 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33
Total: £ _________________ Make check payable to Brainstorm or give credit card details.
Name:
Address:
City:
Postcode:
Visa ___ Mastercard ___ Number:
Exp Date:
Signature:
Email Address (in case of questions):
Are we up to the task? We can take inspiration from an ad that appeared in "The Times of London" early this century. Here is what it said:
"Men wanted for hazardous journey. Low wages, bitter cold, long hours of complete darkness. Safe return doubtful. Honour and recognition in the event of success." It was signed E. Shackleton.
Ernest Shackleton was looking for crew members on the quest to reach the South Pole. The next morning, more than 5,000 men were waiting outside the office of The Times, wanting to apply.
When the challenges are great, often we respond. Today, the challenges are great.
Now, a few items I hope you will find useful and inspirational:
A Tip for Meetings
The people running an educational innovation program called the Learning Exchange have found that writing big leads to thinking big. They suggest
having meeting participants write or draw ideas on huge poster boards rather than note pads. It makes it easier to collaborate and influences people to be bolder in their thinking and suggestions. It also worked for Walt Disney, who used to have a "Creators Room" with walls totally covered in paper on which writers and artists could write or sketch their ideas for all to see.
Action: Have some blank paper on the walls, or a large chalk or white board where you and others can jot down any ideas pertaining to your current project or activities. Put it in a high-traffic area (one you and others pass frequently) and record any thoughts, no matter how small, strange, or tangential they may be. Harvest these thoughts once a week.
Where to Get Your Best Ideas
A survey by BT and Management Today asked managers where they get their best ideas. Two-thirds of respondents said it was outside of work (only one in thirteen said it happened in meetings or brainstorming sessions). Here are a few locations you might try:
– In the bath (most of us take showers these days because they are faster, but a nice long soak in a bathtub is much more conducive to a flow of ideas).
– On the golf course. Golf is not a great exercise for cardio-vascular fitness, but it does allow you a lot of thinking time. Fishing is similar (you do not have to have any bait on your hook…).
– While doing repetitive exercises at the gym or out running. Take along some way to record your ideas as they come up, either a little tape recorder or just a pad and pencil you keep in your gym bag.
– During the commercials when you are watching TV. Use a brainstorming exercise: try to figure out how what you have just seen could possibly lead you to a solution of some challenge you are facing. Jot down any answers that come up in the minutes that the ads are on.
And a Quote about Dilemmas:
This one comes from Albert Einstein. Writing about the process physicists use to build up an understanding of the universal elementary laws, he wrote:
"There is no logical path to these laws; only intuition, resting on sympathetic understanding of experience, can reach them."
At this moment, everyone is looking for a logical response to what has happened, but maybe Einstein’s direction would be more fruitful. If you have any ideas to share on this topic, please let me have them for future e-bulletins.
‘til next time,
Jurgen
PS: My most recent book, "Do Something Different," has just been published in the United States and is now available on Amazon.com as well as on Amazon.co.uk.
Requests to subscribe (or unsubscribe) should be sent to BstormUK@aol.com.
We also welcome your comments and suggestions and we do not sell or share our mailing lists. Feel free to forward this e-bulletin to friends and colleagues in its entirety, and let them know we always welcome new subscribers (and that is free). (Contents copyright 2001, Jurgen Wolff).
Back Issues Sale! For a limited time (Until end of Dec 2001), you canorder back issues of Brainstorm (our printed 8 page creativity newsletter)for only £1 each! Choose from the following issues and print out the coupon at the end to order:
8. What Is Your Future: strategies and techniques for planning your life, based on the impressive work of a global think tank; A virtual interview with
Carl Jung, Also, the heart-mind connection, a simple technique for quick stress relief.
9. How To Get People To Do What You Want Them To Do: based on Robert Cialdini’s masterful book, ten ways to influence people. Also a review of light/sound brain machines, and the technique of "opposite thinking" with examples from business and writing.
11. Creative Time Management: a right-brain approach to time management, including why the 80/20 rule does not necessarily apply, why faster is not always better, and tips from the three top books on this subject. Also creative ideas relating to working at home; a useful decision-making strategy; and eight ways to do things better.
13. Using The Power Of Asking: ways to ask and get. Also the two types of people to whom you may be trying to sell your idea or product and how to appeal to each. Plus ways to get started when you are stuck.
14. The Power Of Language: a special ten-page issue on matching, re-framing, polarity response, the three-questions rule, and other techniques for becoming a more effective communicator.
16. Three Posters (£1 each): one on creativity, one on goals, one on productivity. Keep these techniques in front of you by putting these posters up in your office or work space.
17. The Power Of Image: key techniques for presenting yourself and your product or service; Also 12 time bandits and how to beat them, and ideas from Rollo May’s inspiring book, "The Courage to Create."
18. Do Something Different: key ways to think and act out of the box in order to achieve success; plus tips from 3 giants in business, and 6 creative approaches to problems, and 8 stress busters.
19. The 80/20 Rule: how to use Pareto’s Principle to get 80% of your results from only 20% of your time and effort. Plus success tips from three successful CEOs; Also; The Quotes File—inspirational and useful quotes; five more ways to cope with time bandits; the power of incubation.
20. The Power Of Dreams: practical ways that your dreams and daydreams can lead you to breakthroughs; 5 case studies of applied dreaming; tips for getting a solid night’s sleep; the power of full spectrum light.
26. Making Dazzling Presentations: techniques for making presentations that excite, inform, and spur the listener to action; Dina Glouberman reveals the secrets of using image work; case studies in how the do something different approach leads to success.
27. The Ripple Effect: Lizz Clarke on how to network without being aggressive; how to use "creative filters"; creative lessons from St. Luke’s, the innovative advertising agency; "eye contact" and " I contact", additional tips for powerful presentations.
28. Do You Have A BHAG?: two students of visionary companies reveal how to use "big, hairy, audacious goals"; a creative visualization technique for putting your vision in focus; Dr. Phillip McGraw’s ten laws of life; how to make affirmations more effective..
29. Robert Ringer’s Million $ Habits: ten habits that lead to creative and business success; a virtual interview with William James, on how to acquire positive habits; a 21 –day plan for success; five innovative ideas that may spark your own creativity.
30. How They Did It: advice from successful entrepreneurs; how to use the "why" strategy for problem solving; tips for right-brain time management; a design for creativity ; and the inspirational "invitation to life."
31. When the Problem is Solved: a strategy for chunking down & solving big problems; inspirational creative ideas; using new combinations for creativity; and ideas you can use for a healthy mind/healthy body combination.
32. Ten New Rules for Staying Ahead: especially useful for free-lancers; six tips for better learning; lessons from the MIT Media Lab; how to make the most of meetings, and a round-up of creativity tips.
33. Beyond Beliefs: how to challenge beliefs that may be holding you back; how to use the creative power of daydreams; the art of re-framing questions for problem-solving; round-up of creativity tips.
* Please fill in the coupon below and post to: Brainstorm, 85 Ridgmount Gardens, London WC1E 7AY (in case of questions, please phone (020) 7580 4997, or e-mail BstormUK@aol.com.
Please send me the issues circled, for only £1.00 each (except 16, which is
£3), including postage:
8 9 11 13 14 (16=£3) 17 18 19 20 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33
Total: £ _________________ Make check payable to Brainstorm or give credit card details.
Name:
Address:
City:
Postcode:
Visa ___ Mastercard ___ Number:
Exp Date:
Signature:
Email Address (in case of questions):
'ASK THE CIS' — ABOUT PROSTATE CANCER
Oct. 21, 2001 – "Ask the CIS," a locally produced Cancer Information Service health column, is featuring questions and answers this time about early detection of prostate cancer.
For men, getting the facts about prostate cancer is an important step in taking care of your health. Simply being a man and getting older puts you at risk for getting prostate cancer. Here are some things you may or may not know.
What is the prostate?
The prostate is a male sex gland, part of a man's reproductive system. The prostate is about the size of a walnut. It is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum.
What is prostate cancer?
After skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common malignancy in American men. It was estimated that in 1999 nearly 179,300 men in the United States would be diagnosed with prostate cancer.
In the majority of men with prostate cancer, it is very slow growing. Many, if not most, men who are diagnosed with prostate cancer will not die because of it. Early prostate cancer is localized in the gland, and the majority of patients with localized prostate cancer have a long survival after diagnosis.
Who is at risk for prostate cancer?
All men are at risk. The most common risk factor is age. More than 75 percent of the men diagnosed with prostate cancer each year are over the age of 65. African-American men have a higher risk of prostate cancer than white Americans. Dramatic differences in the incidence of prostate cancer are seen in different countries, and there is some evidence that a diet higher in animal fat may, in part, underlie these differences in risk.
Genetic factors also appear to play a role, particularly for families where diagnosis is made in men under 60 years of age. The risk of prostate cancer rises with the number of close relatives who have the disease.
What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer often does not cause symptoms for many years. By the time symptoms occur, the disease may have spread beyond the prostate. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
– Frequent urination, especially at night.
– Inability to urinate.
– Trouble starting or holding back urination.
– A weak or interrupted flow or urine.
– Painful or burning urination.
– Painful ejaculation (the release of semen through the penis during orgasm).
– Blood in the urine or semen.
– Frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips or upper thighs.
Any of these can be symptoms of cancer, but more often they are symptoms of non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. It is important to check with a doctor if the symptoms appear.
What other prostate conditions can cause symptoms like these?
The above symptoms may be caused by a variety of conditions. As men get older, their prostate may grow bigger and block the flow of urine or interfere with sexual function. This common condition, called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is not cancer but can cause many of the same symptoms as prostate cancer. Although BPH may not be a threat to life, it may require treatment with medicine or surgery to relieve symptoms. Again, it is important to check with a doctor.
Can prostate cancer be found before the symptoms appear?
Yes. Two tests are commonly used to detect prostate cancer in the absence of any symptoms. One is the digital rectal exam, in which a doctor feels the prostate through the rectum to detect any hard or lumpy areas. The other is a blood test used to detect a substance made by the prostate called prostate specific antigen (PSA). Together, these tests can detect many silent prostate cancers — those that have not caused symptoms.
The National Cancer Institute is supporting research to learn more about screening men for prostate cancer. This research is seeking to determine whether the blood test for PSA along with digital rectal examination can help reduce the death rate from this disease.
The research also will assess the risks and benefits of screening. At present, it is unclear whether routine screening of men who are not at high risk will prove to save lives and outweigh the extra surgery, radiation and complications of therapy for large numbers of patients, many of whom do not have aggressive or life-threatening tumors.
How reliable are the two tests?
Neither of the screening tests for prostate cancer is perfect. Most men with mildly elevated PSA do not have prostate cancer, and many men with prostate cancer have normal levels of PSA. Also, the digital rectal exam can miss many prostate cancers.
How is prostate cancer diagnosed?
The diagnosis of prostate cancer can be confirmed only by a microscopic examination to identify cancerous prostate tissue. This is done by a biopsy performed in the doctor's office. Prostate cancer is characterized by grade and by stage.
Grade is a term used to describe how closely a tumor resembles normal tissue. Based on the microscopic appearance of a tumor, pathologists (doctors who identify diseases by studying tissues under a microscope) may describe it as low-, medium- or high-grade cancer. One way of grading prostate cancer called the Gleason system uses scores of 2 to 10. Another system uses G1 through G4. The higher the score, the higher the grade of the tumor. High-grade tumors grow more quickly and are more likely to spread than low-grade tumors.
Staging of prostate cancer means determining the site and location of the disease. Early prostate cancer, stages 1 and 2, is localized to the prostate gland. Stage 3 prostate cancer is locally advanced outside the gland. Stage 4 prostate cancer has spread to other organs or tissues.
How is localized prostate cancer treated?
There are three generally accepted options for treatment of patients with localized prostate cancer: radical prostatectomy, radiation therapy and surveillance (also called watchful waiting).
Radical prostatectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the entire prostate gland and nearby tissues. Sometimes lymph nodes in the pelvic area (the lower part of the abdomen, located between the hip bones) also are removed. A radical prostatectomy may be performed using a technique called nerve-sparing surgery that may prevent damage to the nerves needed for an erection and prevent damage to the opening of the bladder.
Radiation therapy involves the delivery of radiation energy to the prostate. The energy is usually delivered in an outpatient setting using an external beam of radiation. The energy also can be delivered by placing radioactive seeds in the prostate during a surgical procedure.
The third option, surveillance, is recommended by doctors for some patients, particularly those who are older or have other medical conditions that are likely to compromise their health. These state of the prostate of these patients is followed with regular examinations. If there is evidence of cancer growth, active treatment may be recommended.
How does a patient decide what is the best treatment option for localized prostate cancer?
Choosing a treatment option involves the patient and his family and doctor. Considerations include the grade and stage of the cancer, the patient's age and health, and the individual choices that each patient makes about the benefits and risks of each treatment option.
Because there are several reasonable treatment options for most patients, the decision can be difficult. Patients may hear different opinions and recommendations. They should try to get as much information as possible. There is rarely a need to make a decision about prostate cancer without time to understand the pros and cons of various approaches.
For more information, call the Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237). or visit the Cancer Information Service web site.
The CIS toll-free phone line hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The service is free, and all calls are confidential.
Organizations interested in cancer awareness and education outreach are asked to call Carthy Thomas, Partnership Program coordinator, at 774-9000, ext. 4707.
For men, getting the facts about prostate cancer is an important step in taking care of your health. Simply being a man and getting older puts you at risk for getting prostate cancer. Here are some things you may or may not know.
What is the prostate?
The prostate is a male sex gland, part of a man's reproductive system. The prostate is about the size of a walnut. It is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum.
What is prostate cancer?
After skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common malignancy in American men. It was estimated that in 1999 nearly 179,300 men in the United States would be diagnosed with prostate cancer.
In the majority of men with prostate cancer, it is very slow growing. Many, if not most, men who are diagnosed with prostate cancer will not die because of it. Early prostate cancer is localized in the gland, and the majority of patients with localized prostate cancer have a long survival after diagnosis.
Who is at risk for prostate cancer?
All men are at risk. The most common risk factor is age. More than 75 percent of the men diagnosed with prostate cancer each year are over the age of 65. African-American men have a higher risk of prostate cancer than white Americans. Dramatic differences in the incidence of prostate cancer are seen in different countries, and there is some evidence that a diet higher in animal fat may, in part, underlie these differences in risk.
Genetic factors also appear to play a role, particularly for families where diagnosis is made in men under 60 years of age. The risk of prostate cancer rises with the number of close relatives who have the disease.
What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer often does not cause symptoms for many years. By the time symptoms occur, the disease may have spread beyond the prostate. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
– Frequent urination, especially at night.
– Inability to urinate.
– Trouble starting or holding back urination.
– A weak or interrupted flow or urine.
– Painful or burning urination.
– Painful ejaculation (the release of semen through the penis during orgasm).
– Blood in the urine or semen.
– Frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips or upper thighs.
Any of these can be symptoms of cancer, but more often they are symptoms of non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. It is important to check with a doctor if the symptoms appear.
What other prostate conditions can cause symptoms like these?
The above symptoms may be caused by a variety of conditions. As men get older, their prostate may grow bigger and block the flow of urine or interfere with sexual function. This common condition, called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is not cancer but can cause many of the same symptoms as prostate cancer. Although BPH may not be a threat to life, it may require treatment with medicine or surgery to relieve symptoms. Again, it is important to check with a doctor.
Can prostate cancer be found before the symptoms appear?
Yes. Two tests are commonly used to detect prostate cancer in the absence of any symptoms. One is the digital rectal exam, in which a doctor feels the prostate through the rectum to detect any hard or lumpy areas. The other is a blood test used to detect a substance made by the prostate called prostate specific antigen (PSA). Together, these tests can detect many silent prostate cancers — those that have not caused symptoms.
The National Cancer Institute is supporting research to learn more about screening men for prostate cancer. This research is seeking to determine whether the blood test for PSA along with digital rectal examination can help reduce the death rate from this disease.
The research also will assess the risks and benefits of screening. At present, it is unclear whether routine screening of men who are not at high risk will prove to save lives and outweigh the extra surgery, radiation and complications of therapy for large numbers of patients, many of whom do not have aggressive or life-threatening tumors.
How reliable are the two tests?
Neither of the screening tests for prostate cancer is perfect. Most men with mildly elevated PSA do not have prostate cancer, and many men with prostate cancer have normal levels of PSA. Also, the digital rectal exam can miss many prostate cancers.
How is prostate cancer diagnosed?
The diagnosis of prostate cancer can be confirmed only by a microscopic examination to identify cancerous prostate tissue. This is done by a biopsy performed in the doctor's office. Prostate cancer is characterized by grade and by stage.
Grade is a term used to describe how closely a tumor resembles normal tissue. Based on the microscopic appearance of a tumor, pathologists (doctors who identify diseases by studying tissues under a microscope) may describe it as low-, medium- or high-grade cancer. One way of grading prostate cancer called the Gleason system uses scores of 2 to 10. Another system uses G1 through G4. The higher the score, the higher the grade of the tumor. High-grade tumors grow more quickly and are more likely to spread than low-grade tumors.
Staging of prostate cancer means determining the site and location of the disease. Early prostate cancer, stages 1 and 2, is localized to the prostate gland. Stage 3 prostate cancer is locally advanced outside the gland. Stage 4 prostate cancer has spread to other organs or tissues.
How is localized prostate cancer treated?
There are three generally accepted options for treatment of patients with localized prostate cancer: radical prostatectomy, radiation therapy and surveillance (also called watchful waiting).
Radical prostatectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the entire prostate gland and nearby tissues. Sometimes lymph nodes in the pelvic area (the lower part of the abdomen, located between the hip bones) also are removed. A radical prostatectomy may be performed using a technique called nerve-sparing surgery that may prevent damage to the nerves needed for an erection and prevent damage to the opening of the bladder.
Radiation therapy involves the delivery of radiation energy to the prostate. The energy is usually delivered in an outpatient setting using an external beam of radiation. The energy also can be delivered by placing radioactive seeds in the prostate during a surgical procedure.
The third option, surveillance, is recommended by doctors for some patients, particularly those who are older or have other medical conditions that are likely to compromise their health. These state of the prostate of these patients is followed with regular examinations. If there is evidence of cancer growth, active treatment may be recommended.
How does a patient decide what is the best treatment option for localized prostate cancer?
Choosing a treatment option involves the patient and his family and doctor. Considerations include the grade and stage of the cancer, the patient's age and health, and the individual choices that each patient makes about the benefits and risks of each treatment option.
Because there are several reasonable treatment options for most patients, the decision can be difficult. Patients may hear different opinions and recommendations. They should try to get as much information as possible. There is rarely a need to make a decision about prostate cancer without time to understand the pros and cons of various approaches.
For more information, call the Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237). or visit the Cancer Information Service web site.
The CIS toll-free phone line hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The service is free, and all calls are confidential.
Organizations interested in cancer awareness and education outreach are asked to call Carthy Thomas, Partnership Program coordinator, at 774-9000, ext. 4707.
MASS OF REMEMBRANCE HONORS ALUMNI
Oct. 21, 2001 – The Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands invites former students, teachers, administrators, family and friends of Sts. Peter and Paul School to a Mass of Remembrance Sunday, Nov. 4, at 10:30 a.m. at the Cathedral.
The Mass will celebrate alumni of the school and their contributions to the community.
Bishop George Murray SJ will be the celebrant. Following the Mass, a reception in the courtyard adjacent to the Cathedral will be held for attendees to renew friendships past and present.
The Mass of Remembrance is a local initiative. School board member Carol Jackson, Class of '75, and the Bishop's Development Office came up with the idea as a way of showing goodwill and appreciation for the positive community contributions the school and its teachers, administration and alumni have made over the years.
It is planned as the first of an annual event.
Close in time to All Saints Day (Nov. 2), which is a day to remember the deceased, the Alumni Mass of Remembrance will honor those both living and deceased.
The Mass will celebrate alumni of the school and their contributions to the community.
Bishop George Murray SJ will be the celebrant. Following the Mass, a reception in the courtyard adjacent to the Cathedral will be held for attendees to renew friendships past and present.
The Mass of Remembrance is a local initiative. School board member Carol Jackson, Class of '75, and the Bishop's Development Office came up with the idea as a way of showing goodwill and appreciation for the positive community contributions the school and its teachers, administration and alumni have made over the years.
It is planned as the first of an annual event.
Close in time to All Saints Day (Nov. 2), which is a day to remember the deceased, the Alumni Mass of Remembrance will honor those both living and deceased.
UNITED WAY HAS COMMUNITY GRANTS AVAILABLE
Oct. 21, 2001 – United Way of St. Thomas-St. John has $19,500 available in its Venture Grant program for unmet or emerging needs of youth in crisis within the St. Thomas and St. John communities.
Applications are currently being accepted from social service community agencies to address issues affecting youth in crisis, utilizing innovative strategies.
Proposals being sought are those geared to issues affecting the success of our youth, said executive director Thyra Hammond in a United Way release. She cited as examples teen violence, school violence, child abuse, substance abuse, suicide, and services for exceptional children and learning disabled.
Venture grants are not for support of established programs or for start-up funding for new agencies, said the release. Encouraged to apply are community organizations, in existence for at least two years, which wish to approach new populations or with programs expanding into new areas.
Grant applications and letters of intent are available at the United Way office, located on Main Street, upstairs of Mr. Tablecloth. Completed applications must be received in the office by Nov. 15, 2001.
For more information, call 774-3185.
Applications are currently being accepted from social service community agencies to address issues affecting youth in crisis, utilizing innovative strategies.
Proposals being sought are those geared to issues affecting the success of our youth, said executive director Thyra Hammond in a United Way release. She cited as examples teen violence, school violence, child abuse, substance abuse, suicide, and services for exceptional children and learning disabled.
Venture grants are not for support of established programs or for start-up funding for new agencies, said the release. Encouraged to apply are community organizations, in existence for at least two years, which wish to approach new populations or with programs expanding into new areas.
Grant applications and letters of intent are available at the United Way office, located on Main Street, upstairs of Mr. Tablecloth. Completed applications must be received in the office by Nov. 15, 2001.
For more information, call 774-3185.
WANTED: NEW MAJORETTES
Oct. 21, 2001 – Young ladies, shine up your batons and practice your high steps: A new majorette troupe is forming on St. Thomas, and is looking for girls age 4 to 15.
A first meeting will be held Nov. 3 for interested girls and their parents, organizer Julie Jackson said. The location is not certain yet; call Jackson at 774-6437, or email the organizers at blue@viaccess.net.
The group is looking for the many youngsters out there who have expressed a desire to be part of a majorette troupe but haven't yet had the opportunity, Jackson said. They hope to have up to 50 girls, or even more.
The group's paperwork to become a nonprofit is in the lieutenant governor's office, Jackson said. They are searching for sponsors and for a suitable practice area, perhaps in the area of Ft. Christian parking lot.
A first meeting will be held Nov. 3 for interested girls and their parents, organizer Julie Jackson said. The location is not certain yet; call Jackson at 774-6437, or email the organizers at blue@viaccess.net.
The group is looking for the many youngsters out there who have expressed a desire to be part of a majorette troupe but haven't yet had the opportunity, Jackson said. They hope to have up to 50 girls, or even more.
The group's paperwork to become a nonprofit is in the lieutenant governor's office, Jackson said. They are searching for sponsors and for a suitable practice area, perhaps in the area of Ft. Christian parking lot.
SAVORY SEASONINGS GIVE LEAN PORK PIZZAZZ
Oct. 21, 2001 – Pork has long held a prominent place on the Caribbean table, yet today many people shun this meat because of fears that it's an unhealthful food.
Religious and ethical considerations aside, pork nutritionally has shaped up and slimmed down over the past few years, thanks to improved breezing and feeding practices, a revised grading system that rewards producers for leaner meat, and better trimming of external fat by the processing and retailing industries.
With the exception of spare ribs and cuts such as pig tail, snout and ears, all raw pork cuts trimmed of visible fat qualify as "lean" and contain less than 10 percent fat. Three fried chicken wings or a fast-food fried fish sandwich have over twice the fat content of a 3-ounce trimmed and grilled pork chop. Additionally, pork is a rich source of thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, B6, B12, iron, zinc and protein.
Since fat carries the sensation of flavor in foods, the best way to assure an item like low-fat pork is flavorful is to prepare it with a variety of seasonings. The marinade recipe here combines many local favorites — citrus juices, spices, pepper sauce and more. Partner this recipe with steamed rice and broccoli, and savor a trim but tasty meal.
Tropical Pork Chops
2 pounds medium-thick pork chops, trimmed of fat
1 cup orange juice
1/2 cup lime juice
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili sauce
3/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 onion, cut in quarters
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
Place raw pork chops in a shallow glass dish. Place orange juice, lime juice, cumin, chili sauce, allspice, bell pepper and onion in a blender or food processor. Cover and blend until smooth. Pour blended mixture over pork chops. Turn chops over so that both sides are coated with marinade. Cover dish with foil. Refrigerate at least 4 hours but no longer than 24 hours, turning chops occasionally.
Heat grill. Remove chops from the marinade, saving the marinade. Sprinkle chops with salt and black pepper to taste. Grill chops for 4 to 6 minutes on each side until thoroughly cooked.
Pour the marinade into a small saucepan. Stir in sugar and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer uncovered about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mixture thickens slightly. Serve sauce with pork.
Makes 6 servings. Per serving: 170 calories, 10 gms fat (55 percent fat calories), 49 mg cholesterol, 63 mg sodium.
Religious and ethical considerations aside, pork nutritionally has shaped up and slimmed down over the past few years, thanks to improved breezing and feeding practices, a revised grading system that rewards producers for leaner meat, and better trimming of external fat by the processing and retailing industries.
With the exception of spare ribs and cuts such as pig tail, snout and ears, all raw pork cuts trimmed of visible fat qualify as "lean" and contain less than 10 percent fat. Three fried chicken wings or a fast-food fried fish sandwich have over twice the fat content of a 3-ounce trimmed and grilled pork chop. Additionally, pork is a rich source of thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, B6, B12, iron, zinc and protein.
Since fat carries the sensation of flavor in foods, the best way to assure an item like low-fat pork is flavorful is to prepare it with a variety of seasonings. The marinade recipe here combines many local favorites — citrus juices, spices, pepper sauce and more. Partner this recipe with steamed rice and broccoli, and savor a trim but tasty meal.
Tropical Pork Chops
2 pounds medium-thick pork chops, trimmed of fat
1 cup orange juice
1/2 cup lime juice
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili sauce
3/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 onion, cut in quarters
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
Place raw pork chops in a shallow glass dish. Place orange juice, lime juice, cumin, chili sauce, allspice, bell pepper and onion in a blender or food processor. Cover and blend until smooth. Pour blended mixture over pork chops. Turn chops over so that both sides are coated with marinade. Cover dish with foil. Refrigerate at least 4 hours but no longer than 24 hours, turning chops occasionally.
Heat grill. Remove chops from the marinade, saving the marinade. Sprinkle chops with salt and black pepper to taste. Grill chops for 4 to 6 minutes on each side until thoroughly cooked.
Pour the marinade into a small saucepan. Stir in sugar and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer uncovered about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mixture thickens slightly. Serve sauce with pork.
Makes 6 servings. Per serving: 170 calories, 10 gms fat (55 percent fat calories), 49 mg cholesterol, 63 mg sodium.
MASON, DAVID ARE BREAST CANCER RUN WINNERS
Oct. 21 – More than 140 men, women and children — including infants in strollers pushed by parents — set off at a brisk pace running and walking in the 4th annual "Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, Run, Roll" Sunday afternoon. The event was hosted by the St. Thomas Association of Roadrunners.
The two-mile course started in the Port of $ale parking lot and looped around the Havensight Mall and dock area.
Naheem Mason, an 18-year-old graduate of Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, was the top male finisher with a time of 11 minutes 56 seconds. Ruth Ann David was the top female finisher, in 12 minutes and 13 seconds.
"The whole key was pacing myself," Mason said. "Plus, I really wanted to win it this year. I love competition."
"We started this race four years ago as a way to highlight breast cancer since October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month," event organizer Theresa Hodge said.
Ms. Senior Virgin Islands, Carol Tuohy, participated in the event and helped hand out awards. She explained that the occasion had special significance for her:
"Last year, I did this event, walked it, and earned this medal," she said, displaying her keepsake. "I kept the medal on until the next Tuesday, when I was wheeled into surgery for a lumpectomy. Today, I'm proud to be back and be a survivor."
Top three female winners by age group:
12 and under
1. Nikole Baines, 18:38
2. Kira Gumbs, 20:30
3. Shameka Hopson 22:20
13 to 18
1. Charley Charles 14:34
2. Elizabeth Davis 17.13
3. Norma Charles 19:28
19 to 29
1. Stephanie Flahearty 14:38
2. Cheribarton 16:26
3. Bethanyevans 19:05
30 to 39
1. Andrea Greaux 16:11
2. Robin Munro 16:46
3. Amy Grulea 16::48
40 to 49
1. Grace Tuma 14:00
2. Jude Wookcock 15:59
3. Sam Marsham 17:12
50 to 59
1. Cassandra Mallory 18:35
2. Fern LaBorde 23:54
3. Althea Lemon 25:34
60 and over
1. Ianthe Banes 22:30
2. Peggy Mcconnell 27:16
3. Joy Boyd 30.27
Top three male winners by age group:
12 and under
1. Adam Fuller 15:08
2. Nicha Lazarus 17:11
3. Bian Barether 18:00
13 to 18
1. Albert Charles 15:49
2. Joseph Brow 15:52
3. Austin Peevey 24:35
19 to 29
1. Isaak Aronson 12:09
2. Lucien Wallace 13:19
3. Bradley Kappel 21:45
30 to 39
1. Adam Thill 12:01
2. Jeremy Ruben 13.59
3. David Jones 14:50
40 to 49
1. Peter Alter 12:32
2. Lance Maangum 13:41
3. Frank Jackson 14:03
50 to 59
1. Elliot Davis 14:34
2. Fred Hupprich 22:27
3. Kenneth Thomas 23:48
60 and over
1. Vincent Fuller 18:34
2. Frank Mc Connell 25:25
3. Martin Tuohy 30:55
The two-mile course started in the Port of $ale parking lot and looped around the Havensight Mall and dock area.
Naheem Mason, an 18-year-old graduate of Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, was the top male finisher with a time of 11 minutes 56 seconds. Ruth Ann David was the top female finisher, in 12 minutes and 13 seconds.
"The whole key was pacing myself," Mason said. "Plus, I really wanted to win it this year. I love competition."
"We started this race four years ago as a way to highlight breast cancer since October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month," event organizer Theresa Hodge said.
Ms. Senior Virgin Islands, Carol Tuohy, participated in the event and helped hand out awards. She explained that the occasion had special significance for her:
"Last year, I did this event, walked it, and earned this medal," she said, displaying her keepsake. "I kept the medal on until the next Tuesday, when I was wheeled into surgery for a lumpectomy. Today, I'm proud to be back and be a survivor."
Top three female winners by age group:
12 and under
1. Nikole Baines, 18:38
2. Kira Gumbs, 20:30
3. Shameka Hopson 22:20
13 to 18
1. Charley Charles 14:34
2. Elizabeth Davis 17.13
3. Norma Charles 19:28
19 to 29
1. Stephanie Flahearty 14:38
2. Cheribarton 16:26
3. Bethanyevans 19:05
30 to 39
1. Andrea Greaux 16:11
2. Robin Munro 16:46
3. Amy Grulea 16::48
40 to 49
1. Grace Tuma 14:00
2. Jude Wookcock 15:59
3. Sam Marsham 17:12
50 to 59
1. Cassandra Mallory 18:35
2. Fern LaBorde 23:54
3. Althea Lemon 25:34
60 and over
1. Ianthe Banes 22:30
2. Peggy Mcconnell 27:16
3. Joy Boyd 30.27
Top three male winners by age group:
12 and under
1. Adam Fuller 15:08
2. Nicha Lazarus 17:11
3. Bian Barether 18:00
13 to 18
1. Albert Charles 15:49
2. Joseph Brow 15:52
3. Austin Peevey 24:35
19 to 29
1. Isaak Aronson 12:09
2. Lucien Wallace 13:19
3. Bradley Kappel 21:45
30 to 39
1. Adam Thill 12:01
2. Jeremy Ruben 13.59
3. David Jones 14:50
40 to 49
1. Peter Alter 12:32
2. Lance Maangum 13:41
3. Frank Jackson 14:03
50 to 59
1. Elliot Davis 14:34
2. Fred Hupprich 22:27
3. Kenneth Thomas 23:48
60 and over
1. Vincent Fuller 18:34
2. Frank Mc Connell 25:25
3. Martin Tuohy 30:55
CHAMBER LUNCHEON TO FOCUS ON WASTEWATER PLAN
Oct. 20, 2001 – The St. Croix Chamber of Commerce invites the public to a business luncheon on Wednesday to hear a presentation on an innovative wastewater treatment system that proponents say could resolve the island's sewage problems and have additional positive effects.
Onaje Jackson of Carib Infra-Tech Inc. will present a proposal "To Turn 1 Million to 3 Million Gallons of Daily Polluting Wastewater into a Tourism Attraction" at the noon meeting, at Gertrude's Restaurant.
According to a chamber release, the proposed wastewater treatment system "would have positive impacts on the existing farming and business community. By making 2.5 million gallons a day of fresh water available, the project would finally give farmers the year-round water supplies they need to make high-yield agriculture a reality on St. Croix."
The reclaimed water also would be a boon for tourism-related water consumers, the release stated. It could, for example, ensure the Carambola Golf Club of "a reliable year-round supply of fresh water, allowing it to irrigate its course sufficiently and improve its tourism product value." The Infra-Tech proposal envisions the creation of "an interpretative trail and bird-watching facilities at the treatment wetland and a multi-purpose heritage and fruit trail," all of which would be a resource for school science classes, an amenity for residents and an attraction for tourists.
The St. Croix Chamber is encouraging Gov. Charles W. Turnbull and officials to "investigate the suitability of this innovative solution for St. Croix," Carmelo Rivera, chamber president, said in the release. "Not only does it resolve our sewage crisis; it seems to offer the most potential benefits for the dollars to be soon invested by the territory."
Caribbean Infra-Tech is a sustainable infrastructure and facility design firm based on St. Croix and operating in the wider Caribbean region. Jackson, its founder and president, has more than 20 years of experience in the renewable energy, resource conservation and auditing, and architectural engineering fields. He is a graduate of Yale University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Before founding CIT in 1994, Jackson served as coordinator of the V.I. Renewable Energy Institute and technical adviser to the V.I. Energy Office with responsibility for shaping renewable-energy and energy-conservation programs and drafting an energy code for buildings in the territory. He also is a former director of the Planning and Natural Resources Department's Coastal Zone Management program..
As an intern in the early 1980s at the Solar Energy Research Institute, known now as the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Jackson designed a demonstration project using renewable-energy technologies in rural areas for the government of Jamaica. For seven years, he was a senior associate with several architectural engineering firms in New York City, working on large-scale energy conservation, auditing and applied research contracts.
He recently was re-elected to a second term on the board of directors of the American Solar Energy Society and is secretary of the board of the Caribbean Solar Energy Society.
For luncheon reservations and additional information, call Carmelo Rivera at 773-1435 or e-mail to chamber@vipowernet.net.
Onaje Jackson of Carib Infra-Tech Inc. will present a proposal "To Turn 1 Million to 3 Million Gallons of Daily Polluting Wastewater into a Tourism Attraction" at the noon meeting, at Gertrude's Restaurant.
According to a chamber release, the proposed wastewater treatment system "would have positive impacts on the existing farming and business community. By making 2.5 million gallons a day of fresh water available, the project would finally give farmers the year-round water supplies they need to make high-yield agriculture a reality on St. Croix."
The reclaimed water also would be a boon for tourism-related water consumers, the release stated. It could, for example, ensure the Carambola Golf Club of "a reliable year-round supply of fresh water, allowing it to irrigate its course sufficiently and improve its tourism product value." The Infra-Tech proposal envisions the creation of "an interpretative trail and bird-watching facilities at the treatment wetland and a multi-purpose heritage and fruit trail," all of which would be a resource for school science classes, an amenity for residents and an attraction for tourists.
The St. Croix Chamber is encouraging Gov. Charles W. Turnbull and officials to "investigate the suitability of this innovative solution for St. Croix," Carmelo Rivera, chamber president, said in the release. "Not only does it resolve our sewage crisis; it seems to offer the most potential benefits for the dollars to be soon invested by the territory."
Caribbean Infra-Tech is a sustainable infrastructure and facility design firm based on St. Croix and operating in the wider Caribbean region. Jackson, its founder and president, has more than 20 years of experience in the renewable energy, resource conservation and auditing, and architectural engineering fields. He is a graduate of Yale University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Before founding CIT in 1994, Jackson served as coordinator of the V.I. Renewable Energy Institute and technical adviser to the V.I. Energy Office with responsibility for shaping renewable-energy and energy-conservation programs and drafting an energy code for buildings in the territory. He also is a former director of the Planning and Natural Resources Department's Coastal Zone Management program..
As an intern in the early 1980s at the Solar Energy Research Institute, known now as the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Jackson designed a demonstration project using renewable-energy technologies in rural areas for the government of Jamaica. For seven years, he was a senior associate with several architectural engineering firms in New York City, working on large-scale energy conservation, auditing and applied research contracts.
He recently was re-elected to a second term on the board of directors of the American Solar Energy Society and is secretary of the board of the Caribbean Solar Energy Society.
For luncheon reservations and additional information, call Carmelo Rivera at 773-1435 or e-mail to chamber@vipowernet.net.
