Tri County Sentry - The Tri-County's Only Muliticultural Newspaper

2013 Black College Tour

Administrator — Mon, 20 May 2013 22:38:46 +0000

Bethel A.M.E. Church’s 6th Annual Mother’s Day Brunch

Administrator — Fri, 17 May 2013 22:06:41 +0000

Bethel A.M.E. Church's 6th Annual Mother's Day Brunch

How to Customize Offers, Get the Most Out of Daily Deals

Administrator — Fri, 17 May 2013 18:05:06 +0000

Daily deal sites exploded following the success of sites like Groupon and Living Social, and the multitude of options for discounts has left many consumers overwhelmed. Overall, the opportunities for saving money are welcome, but sifting through dozens of emails offering an avalanche of deals you don’t want or need gets tiresome. In the digital age of social media and instant smartphone gratification, there are better ways to get the most out of discount savings. “If you wanted an Italian restaurant deal in Queens, and you found that LivingSocial didn’t have one, you may have missed out because there may have been one on Gilt City,” explains John Casson, the CEO and founder of Daily Deal Superstore -- a deal aggregator that brings together discounts and offers from across the web and compiles emails tailored to your interests. “This way, it takes the stress out of searching through several deal companies. We show all those Italian restaurant deals from all the companies.” From a collective search, including sites like Woot!, KGB Deals, Gilt City and Groupon, you can make your smartphone and Facebook page do the work for you. Daily Deal Superstore is a website that gathers deals from hundreds of deal companies, categorizes them, puts them in 10,000 different towns and cities and sends a customized email with offers relating to your interests and specified location. Basically, it’s the only way to fully take advantage of online discounts. If you have a smartphone, you can find deals on hotels, restaurants, gyms, what have you, within a mile of your location. Business trips just got a whole lot better. Now, savvy shoppers can sign up for the easy-to-use Facebook app, which will automatically find relevant deals based upon your location and likes from your profile to provide even more relevant savings. “It will show you deals that relate to exactly where you are and what you like. We put out specifically what you like,” Casson adds. “We do the work so you don’t have to. It is simple and fast, and makes it easier not to miss out on deals.” Better yet, if you share the Facebook app or deals with friends, and they purchase an offer, you’ll be rewarded with points that you can redeem for gift cards at your favorite store.

Fish Oil Supplements May Not Prevent Heart Trouble

Administrator — Fri, 17 May 2013 18:01:23 +0000

By Steven Reinberg Although previous research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids may help those who have already had a heart attack or suffer from heart failure, a new study finds that the supplements do little to prevent cardiac trouble in people who have risk factors for heart disease. Italian researchers reported that omega-3 fatty acid supplements did not reduce death from heart disease or heart attacks or strokes in this vulnerable group. "Contrary to the expectations, adding supplemental omega-3 fatty acids does not have any specific advantage in a population that is considered at high risk of cardiovascular disease," said lead researcher Dr. Gianni Tognoni, from the Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche in Milan. Tognoni said omega-3 fatty acids do seem to help prevent abnormal heart rhythms following a heart attack or heart failure. There appears, however, to be no value in taking the supplements to prevent heart disease, he added. "Don't trust too much on drugs that attempt to mimic lifestyle [changes]," Tognoni said. It's the usual recommendations that really ward off heart disease, he said, including not smoking, eating a healthy diet and getting exercise. The report was published in the May 9 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.

Seeing Spots? That Spot May Be a ‘Floater’

Administrator — Fri, 17 May 2013 17:57:43 +0000

By Candy Sagon Seeing spots in front of your eyes? Or maybe little wisps or globs that move through your field of vision? Don't be anxious. You're seeing floaters, an eye condition that's "very common the older you get," says Jill Bixler, M.D., an assistant professor of ophthalmology at the University of Michigan's Kellogg Eye Center. Floaters can sometimes signal a more serious condition, including retina problems that could endanger your vision, but typically, they're just annoyances. Why we have floaters Most of the inside of your eyeball is filled with a gel-like material called the vitreous. Imagine a tiny bag of Jell-O helping to provide shape and act as a shock absorber for the retina at the back of your eye. Unfortunately, as we age, the vitreous starts to sag and weaken. As the vitreous breaks down and becomes more watery, bits of the gel begin to peel off and float around inside your eye cavity. These bits cast shadows on the retina, and that's what you're seeing float by. And if you're nearsighted, "you're more likely to get floaters," says Bixler, because the elongated shape of the nearsighted eye adds to the strain on the vitreous. When floaters are a concern While floaters by themselves are not usually a problem, Leder says they "can be a warning sign of a retinal detachment. Retinal detachments can cause permanent vision loss and must be repaired immediately with surgery." A "sudden increase in the number of floaters, paired with flashes of light or a veil over the field of vision, should prompt immediate medical attention," Bixler adds. While retinal detachment is a major concern, floaters also can be caused by other problems, including inflammation in the back of the eye from infection; bleeding in the eye from injury or diseases like diabetes; or complications after cataract surgery.

How to Help Seniors Age Independently

Administrator — Fri, 17 May 2013 17:53:45 +0000

Ask most seniors if they want to age independently in their own homes, and they likely will say yes. Surveys show 95 percent of people over the age of 75 desire to age in place, and about a quarter of seniors live alone. These numbers are just the beginning. Baby Boomers are now turning 65 at a rate of about 8,000 a day, according to AARP. But what if you're the adult child of one of those independent-minded seniors? What if, like Alison Jacobson, whose SafetyMom.com blog has a loyal following, you find yourself frequently worrying about your parents' well-being? "While aging-in-place is the goal for most seniors, how do you, as the adult child, ensure sure they're safe?" she asks. Here are some tips for dealing with the situation: • Preventing falls. Falls are a leading cause of injury and death for seniors. Like the worry Jacobson describes, a new survey by market researchers Toluna found that a far greater number of caregivers were concerned about seniors being injured than seniors themselves were (76.1 percent vs. 33 percent). One simple first step is to remove all scatter rugs and make sure electric cords don't extend into high-traffic areas. • Upgrading lights. While seniors sometimes may be reluctant to admit it, vision diminishes with age. So, brighten lights in kitchen work areas to reduce the risk of burns and cuts. • Tech fix. The latest technology is the answer to substantial research highlighting the importance of staying connected for both seniors and caregivers. Harvard University researchers found that the odds of mental decline doubled for seniors with no social ties, for example, while Toluna's survey looked at the emotional toll on those trying to help loved ones age in place. "For caregivers, ease of communication with the seniors they love relieves stress, reduces guilt and builds rich relationships," says expert on successful aging Adriane Berg. Enter the new CareLine home safety telephone system from VTech (www.vtechphones.com/CareLine). The product includes three individual pieces designed for optimal usability, even for those with vision, hearing and dexterity issues. The pieces are the corded base phone with photo displays for frequent contacts, a cordless handset and a very handy pendant that can also be snapped onto a belt and easily kept with the user. The pendant can make and receive calls, access voicemail, and receive automatic reminders about medications and appointments.

Ask The Insurance Decoder

Administrator — Fri, 17 May 2013 17:16:07 +0000

[caption id="attachment_949" align="alignright" width="250" caption="Lynne Lucio"][/caption] By Lynne Lucio Q. My 18-month COBRA benefit period is almost at an end. Is there any federal or state extension that will allow me to continue my COBRA coverage beyond 18 months? I heard that there was a COBRA subsidy; am I eligible for the subsidy?—Raymond J., Ventura, CA A. Currently there is no federal extension available for a regular COBRA benefit period. The subsidy you are talking about was for employees who were involuntarily terminated prior to May 31, 2010, when the subsidy ended. There are a few states in the country that offer an additional period of time to continue health coverage after the federal COBRA benefit period ends. To determine whether you are eligible for additional continuation coverage, contact your state insurance department. ASK The Insurance Decoder © Copyright 2012, Lynne Lucio. All rights reserved. Lynne Lucio, the author of The Insurance Decoder: How to Maximize Your Health Insurance Benefits, Minimize Out-Of-Pocket Expenses and Stay One step Ahead of Your Insurance Company, has been a health insurance professional for over 20 years. As an insurance insider, Lynne learned how to decipher the medical claims labyrinth and developed the specific and practical knowledge of the claims process. Throughout her career, Lynne has shared her expertise with thousands of insured consumers, helping them resolve complicated health claims while showing them how to take full advantage of their health insurance benefits. The depth and breadth of Lynne’s knowledge of the topic encompasses not only the claims process but also the laws that influence and regulate health coverage, including ERISA, COBRA, FMLA, USERRA, HIPAA and others. Lynne provides consulting services to covered individuals and writes about health insurance issues on (www.ezine.com). For more information, or to submit your own health insurance related questions, contact Lynne at theinsurancedecoder@gmail.com. Your question may be answered in a future column.

Making Headway Against Traumatic Brain Injuries

Administrator — Fri, 17 May 2013 17:12:09 +0000

Despite the prevalence of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions among athletes and service members, the road to diagnosis and prevention is an unpaved one riddled with obstacles. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report more than 1 million sports-related traumatic brain injuries in the U.S. every year, striking middle-schoolers and professional football players alike. Concussions comprise nearly 90 percent of the 1.4 million TBI-related deaths, hospitalizations and ER visits each year. President Obama recently outlined the need for better research on the brain, particularly in relation to TBIs. Congress will soon review the BRAIN Initiative -- likened to the Human Genome Project -- and House Majority leader Eric Cantor has already showed early support. To help connect athletes and soldiers suffering from TBIs with the physicians and business leaders who can help, the Coalition for Concussion Treatment (#C4CT) was created. On Friday, June 21, the #C4CT is holding a Concussion Awareness Summit at the Minneapolis Club in Minnesota to explore gaps in TBI care, new approaches and long-term effects. One Mind for Research is a nonprofit that will be a recipient of part of the summit's proceeds. It is launching a new TBI initiative, the Gemini Program, to track 3,000-5,000 patients and provide improved diagnostics and treatments. The Wounded Warrior Project has awarded a $3.5 million matching challenge grant to the Gemini Program. "TBIs and their effects on amateur and professional football players are emerging as a rallying point to better understand the brain and treatments," said former college football and hockey player Gerald E. Commissiong, also president and CEO of Amarantus BioScience Holdings, Inc. (OTCQB: AMBS) -- one leg of #C4CT. "We are proud to be among the first to unite the groups affected." Amarantus (www.Amarantus.com) is showing promising early results. Its primary therapeutic program, called Mesencephalic-Astrocyte-derived Neurotrophic Factor (MANF), shows the ability to treat concussions. In addition to Amarantus, the other legs of the #C4CT alliance are just as vital -- advisory firm Brewer Sports International (BSI), Toi Cook Management Group (TCMG) and Banyan Biomarkers. Banyan Biomarkers has an ongoing 2,000-subject clinical study that is funded by a $26.3 million contract from the Department of Defense. "As an ex-NFL player, I experienced hundreds of violent collisions, and have teammates and friends who suffer the lasting effects of TBI," says Jack Brewer, CEO at BSI. "Now it's up to all NFL players to use our influence to catalyze research in TBI."

The Six Best Foods for Better Mental Health

Administrator — Fri, 17 May 2013 17:03:23 +0000

By Lorraine Jones What is serotonin? This naturally-produced chemical is believed to contribute to feelings of well-being and happiness. Fluctuating levels of serotonin can have a very negative impact on an individual’s mood, sleep patterns and ability to learn and deal with stressful situations. While it is possible to take medicine to regulate serotonin deficiencies, you can also help control your levels, and your mood, with healthy diet choices. For a healthier, more stable mood, be sure to: Eat Carbs Many people neglect the significance of carbohydrates and associate them with weight gain. But in reality, carbohydrates are very useful and essential for one’s body. Studies have proven that carbohydrates can make a person feel better. When one has a fully satisfied stomach, the person automatically feels happy and satisfied. A hungry person is dull for obvious reasons. Carbohydrates, thanks to the presence of serotonin, not only fulfill one’s hunger but also increase the supply of serotonin to the brain and other parts of the body that freshens up one’s mind and makes the person feel healthier and happier. Eat Fruit Fruits are not only delicious, but are also full of important nutrients, minerals and vitamins. Many fruits boost of serotonin and other mood-enhancing chemicals. Chemicals, such as melatonin are also present in certain fruits. They help improve sleep, which is often the reason for a person’s sadness or depression. Plums, pineapple, bananas and sour cherries can directly influence serotonin production. Eat Meat Turkey is now very widely used as people have realized its importance. It does not only make for a tasty meal but also is full of healthy vitamins and nutrients. It contains high levels of tryptophan, which is converted into Serotonin once it reaches the brain. Other important meats are beef and wild fish. An Important Note In addition to living a healthy lifestyle, in the case of mood/mental health concerns, it is very important to visit a doctor to discuss health-related issues.

African American Students Are Not Applying! – Part II of III

Administrator — Fri, 17 May 2013 16:44:11 +0000

Even if you do not have a college-aged child at home, please share this with someone who does, pass this scholarship information on to anyone and everyone that comes to mind. 11) National Assoc. of Black Journalists Scholarships (NABJ) -http://www.nabj.org/html/studentsvcs.html 12) Saul T. Wilson Scholarships (Veterinary) - http://www.aphis.usda.gov/mb/mrphr/jobs/stw.html 13) Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund - http://www.thurgoodmarshallfund.org/sk_v6.cfm 14) FinAid: The Smart Students Guide to Financial Aid Scholarships -http://www.fina/id.org/ 15) Presidential Freedom Scholarships - http://www.nationalservice.org/scholarships/ 16) Microsoft Scholarship Program - http://www.microsoft.com/college/scholarships/minority.asp 17) WiredScholar Free Scholarship Search - http://www.wiredscholar.com/paying/scholarship_search/pay_scholarship 18) Hope Scholarships &Lifetime Credits - http://www.ed.gov/inits/hope/ 19) William Randolph Hearst Endowed Scholarship for Minority Students -http://www.apsanet.org/PS/grants/aspen3.cfm 20) Multiple List of Minority Scholarships - http://gehon.ir.miami.edu/financial-assistance/Scholarship/blackhtml 21) Guaranteed Scholarships - http://www.guaranteed-scholarships.com/ 22) BOEING scholarships (soma e HBCU connects) - http://www.boeing.com/companyoffices/educationrelations/scholarships 23) Easley National Scholarship Program - http://www.naas.org/senior.htm 24) Maryland Artists Scholarships - http://www.maef.org/ 25) Jacki Tuckfield Memorial Graduate Business Scholarship (for AA students in South Florida ) - http://www.jackituckfield.org/ 26) Historically Black College & University Scholarships -http://www.iesabroad.org/info/hbcu.htm 27) Actuarial Scholarships for Minority Students - http://www.beanactuary.org/minority/scholarships.htm 28) International Students Scholarships & Aid Help - http://www.iefa.org/ 29) College Board Scholarship Search - http://cbweb10p.collegeboard.org/fundfinder/html/fundfind01.html 30) Burger King Scholarship Program - http://www.bkscholars.csfa.org/