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Masculinity + energy drinks = sleep problems
Before a guy pumps into a half-pipe on his skateboard, he might chug a Red Bull to feel bold enough to try a difficult flip. Later that night, that same guy performs those same twists and turns – this time in his quest to catch some elusive Z's. Then, it hits him — being a highly caffeinated, sleep-deprived dude is not all it's cracked up to be.
Energy drinks have grown in popularity for many Americans. But there is growing concern about the health risks of consuming them in large quantities. Because men are the main consumers of energy drinks, a research team lead by Dr. Ronald F. Levant, a professor of psychology at The University of Akron, set out to study a possible link between masculinity, expectations about the benefits of consuming energy drinks, how those expectations affect energy drink use and the impact on sleep. Their findings were published in the November 2015 issue of Health Psychology.
Dr. Ronald Levant
Energy drinks are often marketed as "masculine" drinks. Commercials and ads for them often show men engaging in high-risk, adrenaline-pumping activities such as skydiving or snowboarding. Energy drinks may also sponsor many sporting events, such as ultimate fighting leagues, racing and motocross.
Ultra-masculinity
"While most men who buy energy drinks aren't martial arts champions or race car drivers, these marketing campaigns can make some men feel as though drinking energy drinks is a way to feel closer to, or associated with, these ultra-masculine sports," says Levant.
So the team collected data from three surveys of 467 adult men:
The first survey was a Male Role Norms Inventory short form (MRNI-SF), developed by Levant, to measure agreement with traditional masculine attitudes, such as "Men should not be too quick to tell others that they care about them" and "I think a young man should try to be physically tough, even if he's not.
The second survey measured expectations about the effects of energy drinks and included beliefs like "If I consume energy drinks, I will be more willing to take risks" and "If I consume energy drinks, I will perform better."
The final survey, adapted from a standard sleep quality index, measured disturbances in the men's sleep patterns, such as getting up to use the bathroom during the night or having trouble falling asleep.
In an interview about the research with reporter Samantha Allen from The Daily Beast, Levant explains that they "found associations between beliefs in traditional masculinity, beliefs in the efficacy of energy drinks, energy drink consumption, and sleep disturbances with a few notable exceptions." Levant continues, "Older men were, more or less, exempt from the trend, and nonwhite men who endorsed traditional masculinity believed in the efficacy of energy drinks, but this belief didn't translate into actual use."
However, for young white men in the sample, Allen writes, the associations were clear.
A sign of active, competitive lifestyle?
"The link between masculinity ideology and energy drink use suggests that energy drink use may be a means of performing masculinity… as a way to raise masculine capital," Levant tells Allen, noting that this performance could be a way of "demonstrating that one is consuming products that are associated with the engagement in extreme sports or an otherwise active and competitive lifestyle."
The study also argues that this link could have negative effects on their health. Many energy drinks have high caffeine content. When consumed in excess, caffeine can accelerate the heart rate, increase anxiety and contribute to insomnia. Men who perceive energy drinks as automatic performance-enhancing elixirs, the study suggests, are better served monitoring their consumption.
"Energy drinks contain very large amounts of caffeine, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not require caffeine quantities to be displayed on beverage labels," says Levant in the interview. "Because of this, some people may drink more caffeine through energy drinks than they might have intended to throughout a day, and drinking large amounts can cause problems — especially with sleep."
Media contact: Lisa Craig, 330-972-7429 or lmc91@uakron.edu.
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ACME Fine Art
Modern American Art of the Twentieth Century
Maurice Freedman
acmejennifer Maurice Freedman
School of Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
Massachusetts College of Art
Art students League of New York
Exhibitions:
Midtown Gallery, New York, 1934 (solo)
Cape Museum of Fine Arts (solo)
Hudson River Museum (solo)
Washington University Gallery of Art (solo)
D. Wigmore Fine Art (solo)
Carnegie Institute
Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art
Corcoran Gallery
Toledo Museum
National Museum of American Art
Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts
Butler Institute of American Art
City Art Museum of St. Louis
Milwaukee Art Institute
Los Angeles Art Museum
La Jolla Museum
Maurice Freedman was born in Dorchester, a suburb of Boston, and educated at the School of Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, Massachusetts College of Art, and the Art Students League of New York. His work has been exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Carnegie Institute, Whitney Museum of American Art, Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art, Art institute of Chicago, Corcoran Gallery, Brooklyn Museum, Walker Art Center, and Toledo Museum. His work is in the collections of the National Museum of American Art, Smithsonian Institution, Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, Denver Art Museum, Butler Institute of American Art, City Art Museum of St. Louis, Milwaukee Art Institute, Los Angeles Art Museum, and the Minneapolis Institute of Art.
Selected reviews:
"There are Freedman paintings that deserve to go straight into any history of American Paintings in this century." (Midtown Galleries Exhibit) —John Russell, The New York Times, 1982
Every so often you come across an artist whose work is so appealing and so accomplished that you wonder how it could have slipped under your radar. One example is Maurice Freedman (1904-85). —Ken Johnson, The New York Times, 2004, FREEDMAN TRIBUTE SHOWS MASTER AT WORK
"American modernist Maurice Freedman is significant enough to be mentioned in the same breath as other modernist masters working on the cusp of abstraction and reality, such as Marsden Hartley, Arthur Dove, John Marin and Milton Avery." —Andre van der Wende, Cape Cod Times, 2004
"Freedman's brush is bold and so is his color." —Time Magazine
"His paintings are filled with subtle inflections and rich suggestiveness… The sensuousness off his paint handling defines his bold and striking images and therein lie the seeds of modernism. In this was Freedman helped set the stage for all that was yet to come." —Mary Sherman, Curator, Cape Cod Museum of Art, 2004
"America is lucky to have Maurice Freedman" —Max Beckmann
"Freedman's oeuvre is remarkable." —B. Blomienk, Director, Guggenheim & L'Hermitage Museum, NV
"In his handling of paint and in the purification of his perceptions all caviling about what "place" he occupies is irrelevant. The recent paintings of bays and seascapes are proof enough of his individual vision of the world as he sees it." —Arts Magazine
"Freedman is moving toward a massive poetic simplicity of structure in his evocations of sea and cloud and shore." —Pictures on Exhibit
Abraham Walkowitz
Charles Littler
Daniel Brustlein
Dorothy Eisner
Edwin Dickinson
Florence Grippe
Fritz Bultman
George Lloyd
George McNeil
Gilbert Franklin
Haynes Ownby
Herman Maril
Ilya Schor
Jack Hall
James Gahagan
James Lechay
Jay Milder
Kenneth Stubbs
Lester Johnson
Lillian Orlowsky
Mary Hackett
Michael Loew
Myrna Harrison
Nanno de Groot
Oliver Chaffee
Panos Ghikas
Pat Lipsky
Peter Busa
Peter Grippe
Philip Malicoat
Resia Schor
Robert Beauchamp
Rose Basile
Seong Moy
Sharli Powers Land
Tony Vevers
William Freed
© ACME Fine Art 2021

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Nabal, by his cruel words and evil actions, had become David's enemy. David had firmly decided to attack both him and the men who worked for him. He did not delay; he intended to kill them all that evening.
Abigail, Nabal's wife, also did not delay. One of Nabal's servants had told her how cruelly Nabal had replied to David. Abigail realised that she must act at once to save her family and her servants from David's punishment. She acted wisely. Perhaps she could not save her wicked husband. However, she hoped to save her servants, who were innocent in this matter. She also desired to save David himself, so that he would not be guilty of this evil deed against innocent men.
David led 600 men. Abigail wanted to give a gift that would provide something good for them all. It was a great task to prepare a good meal for so many men. However, the situation was urgent and the task was important. Her purpose was not to feed people but to save innocent lives.
Of course she did not tell her husband. Nabal would never approve of her plan; he intended to make David angry. Nabal probably thought all the food was for himself and his friends. He intended to eat and to drink as plentifully as a king that night (25:36).
As soon as the food was ready, Abigail ordered her servants to take it to David. She herself would ride behind her gift.
She was just in time. David, with 400 of his men, was already approaching. They all had swords. David had just made a serious promise to kill Nabal and all the men who worked for him. Abigail had shown great wisdom. Now she must urge David to act wisely too.


As a traveling golfer, I think of myself as someone who has "been there, done that" at a lot of golfable destinations. So, you might find it surprising that Portugal was not on my list. Fortunately for me, an invitation came my way last year and in mid October I went to experience what European golfers have been raving about for years and we Americans know so little about. You would think that the English run up to Scotland for a golfer's holiday whenever the urge hits them, but even they get a bit weary of the cold and rain and from time to time seek lusher fairways, warming sunshine, good wine, better food and lower prices.
The easiest part of Portugal to reach from England or any other part of the world is Lisbon, the capital. I visited an area just 45 minutes west of the city called the Estoril/Cascais Coast. This is not the area of Portugal most golfers hear about. That's the Algarve, which is located in the extreme southern part of the country. But to many who have visited both regions, it's the Estoril that wins out because it has more to offer golfers and explorers.
I traveled with a group of fellow American golf tour operators. It's a congenial group who love the game, are by no means great golfers (that certainly includes me) but are keenly interested in finding great golf experiences for their clients. The 45 minute drive to our hotel actually took a bit longer than an hour. Traffic around Lisbon is thick and the roads tend to be small. Our hotel for our six night stay was the newly built The Oitavos located just north of the town of Cascais. It is an ultra-modern, Five Star, beautifully located structure of 142 rooms with ocean views from ample balconies. The Champalimaud family, our hosts and owners of the land for three generations, built and manage the hotel. But, prior to it's opening in 2010, they built what is to my mind the finest golf course (designed by Arthur Hills) in the region - Oitavos Dunes. Golf Digest ranks it among the top 100 courses in the world. Though not located on the water, the course sits on high rolling dunes that provide views over the Atlantic to the west and rugged forested hills and mountains to the east. With so much visual temptation around you, concentrating on hitting the ball is difficult. After a serious lunch at the modern club house, we headed out for a quick round before dark. Though always tired after a long overnight flight to Europe, I like to be physically active and avoid napping so that I can more easily get on to the countries clock. A round of golf always helps.
Though The Oitavos hotel and its golf course were my favorites on this trip, there were other excellent hotels and courses in the area. One of the most interesting hotels was the Palacio Estoril. Opened in 1930, it was the hub of espionage and intrigue during WWII. Because Portugal was neutral, diplomats, spies and wealthy refugees and celebrities congregated here and enjoyed Estoril's beaches, clubs and casinos. It is grand style and popularity continues today. A smaller and less grand hotel located directly on the water is the Albatroz. Charming rooms in a somewhat funky style command a primo piece of strand with great views from virtually every room.
Hopefully you get the idea that the area has many great accommodations properties to satisfy virtually any taste (ultra-modern to classic old world charm) and pocket book. But, I stray from the subject – the subject of golf. The Palacio Hotel in Estoril owns and operates the Estoril Golfe Club, which is one of the oldest in Portugal and designed by the famous Scottish golf architect Mackenzie Ross. Built on high forested hills above the town, the course has many altitude changes and is unfortunately divided by a highway. A pedestrian bridge links the first nine with second. Though a bit funky, the course is worth a round and the relaxing original club house has plenty of atmospheres for an after-round beer and sandwich.
A newer course on the way to Sintra (a world heritage site and worth a visit) is the Penha Longa Atlantic. The course and a short nine-hole are part of an excellent modern resort built on the grounds of a restored 16th century summer palace. Designed by Robert Trent Jones and finished in 1992, the course works its way to commanding high ground and funnels its way through forests of pine before returning to the club house. I loved this course and it is not because I scored well.
Other courses one should play in the area are: Pestana Beloura, Belas Club de Campo and Club de Golf Quinta da Marinha. These courses are modern, have interesting layouts and enjoy easy access from The Oitavos Hotel. On my next trip to Portugal, I plan to add the Oeste Region to my itinerary. This area of wine and sea is about 1 ½ hours north of Estoril. Praia d'el Rey, a Marriott resort, has a magnificent course along a long beach known worldwide by surfers for its excellent waves. The course boasts four holes along the beach with plenty of sand dunes defining the lush fairways. There are views of the Atlantic from virtually every hole. Other courses in the area include Campo Real, Dom Sucesso and the newly completed Royal Obidos.
Since I mentioned wine, I should probably tell you more about it and the food in this part of Portugal. Local wine is abundant, delicious and inexpensive. This not to say that you can't find some very special wines to celebrate your hole-in-one or some important date. Port is another very drinkable product of Portugal and often served with or after dessert. Port hails from Porto several miles farther north.
As you can well imagine, the Atlantic influences the menus of restaurants along the coast. And as the top consumer of cod in the world, you will find it prepared in ways you may have never thought of. One of the best meals we had was in what our host called a local's restaurant – Mar do Inferno. Perched on a high bluff over the Atlantic, this seafood heaven was packed with diners eagerly digging into shellfish of all kind, cod (of course) and some of the best tasting small lobsters called bruxas (witches) and large shrimp or langoustines I have ever eaten.
The final reason for considering Portugal for your next trip is value. Not only is the Euro favoring dollar travelers again, but Portugal like several southern European countries is suffering economically. Government imposed austerity programs have reduced wages by 10%, increased work hours and raised taxes in order to deal with a deficit is unsustainable. The affect of these measures is less local demand for goods and services, which causes prices to fall and if you coupled that with the weakening Euro, you'll find Portugal may be your best bet for a perfect golf experience in 2012.


Super cute This pretend doctor playset is cute. It has everything a kid could need to play doctor. My three year old absolutely loves it. It even comes with a cute little baby patient.
The perfect kit for the future doctor in the family The perfect kit for the future doctor in the family. She is doing a good job taking care of her patient; this is the best way for my little one learn to take care of others. Play and learn.This kit comes with enough parts and a baby, It just perfect!!!


At Murray Dental Care, our dental practice is committed to providing exceptional treatment options for patients of all ages. Our dentist, Dr. Townsend, and our team of dental professionals are committed to getting to know you and addressing any concerns you may have. Whether you simply need a dental cleaning, dental filling, or a cosmetic procedure, our staff is always here to provide you compassion and professionalism. To schedule your initial appointment, please contact our dental office at (385) 715-5253 today!


Arafat's death to be probed a couple of years too late.
BETHLEHEM -The death of deceased Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat and the election of new Fatah delegates took center stage on the second day of the Fatah congress being held in Bethlehem.
During Wednesday evening's panel at the congress, some delegates voiced criticism of the movement's leadership for not insisting on launching an investigation into Arafat's death.
Despite controversial statements made prior to the congress by senior Fatah member Farouk Kaddoumi that indicated Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas as responsible for Arafat's death, no accusations were leveled at any specific movement member during the congress.
Also on the agenda of Wednesday's discussions was the manner in which Fatah delegates are to be elected. Because many of the party's delegates from the Gaza Strip were barred by Hamas from attending the congress, it was suggested that a separate vote may be held for residents of the Strip so as not to give priority to the delegates who were able to reach Bethlehem.
The sixth congress is being held on the backdrop of Hamas' attempts to prevent Gaza residents affiliated with Fatah from taking part in it, following a demand that 1,000 Hamas members jailed in the PA would be released.
Palestinian media have reported, however, that several activists managed to flee the Strip to the West Bank on donkeys, by sea, land and perhaps even air.
However, it seemed on Wednesday as though the congress is nonetheless moving toward holding elections for the general panel of delegates. This will significantly damage the Gaza Strip candidates. The issue will most likely be decided upon on Thursday when the various candidates will be presented.
Former Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmed Qureia on Tuesday morning launched the historic Fatah congress.
"In the name of the shahidim (martyrs) and in the name of Jerusalem, the capital of the Palestinian state, we hereby declare the opening of the sixth congress of our movement, the Fatah movement," Qureia said, standing next to Abbas.
The Palestinian president, who is seeking to bolster his status and leadership, lashed out at the start of the meeting against "the princes of darkness, who are dividing the homeland and the people and harming democracy, by preventing Fatah members from joining the conference." He was referring to Hamas members in the Gaza Strip.
Abbas noted that the Fatah movement had led the Palestinian Liberation Organization and the Palestinian national struggle, "the same PLO which Hamas tried to eliminate, just like others in the past have tried. But the PLO will continue to exist until our state is established."
The Palestinian president went on to slam Israel, "which is denying all of its commitments."
According to Abbas, the understandings reached by the sides with an American guarantee included all of east Jerusalem, the Jordan Valley and parts of the Dead Sea located within the West Bank.
"But now the Israelis are trying to deny this and create a reality in Jerusalem, claiming that Jerusalem is united under their sovereignty," he said.
"Although we have chosen peace, we maintain the right to launch an armed resistance, which is legitimate as far as international law is concerned."
Maze of the Iwo Jima flag raising, GO USA!


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Q: external disk still spinning after ejecting during encryption I was recently fiddling with my external drive and retroactively encrypting the partitions. I have two on there, one from my previous 2010 macbook, and my current 2015 macbook. For the 2015 one, I followed CCC directions and encrypted by using it as my startup disk and turning on FileVault2. For the 2010 version, since I am not using it as a bootable clone (I couldn't even if I wanted to because of hardware incompatibilities... unless I really had a strong urge to), I read that I could just encrypt it by right-clicking it from my desktop and selecting "Encrypt".
The problem is, I was spaced out and ejected the entire disk while encrypting the 2010 partition (2015 was completely finished). I have no way to tell if it was still encrypting but it was a couple minutes after it told me to restart to continue with the initial (2010 partition) encryption. Even though I didn't encrypt the FileVault2-way (again, for the 2010 partition), I presume it still takes a considerable amount of time. But, there's not indication of when it's done! Now, when I eject it, the disk won't stop spinning.
The good news is, I never physically unplugged the disk from it's USB connection. So perhaps it's still doing it's thing behind the scenes? Please help.

A: Check the offending process using Console.app. Inside of your logs, search for something like "mount"...

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


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Journal of Bioresource Management
Home > J Biores Manag > Vol. 7 (2020) > Iss. 4
Effect of Plastic Film and Straw Mulch on Wheat Yield, Water Use Efficiency and Soil Properties in Punjab, Pakistan
Atif Javed, University of Agriculture, FaisalabadFollow
Muhammad Iqbal, University of Agriculture, FaisalabadFollow
Ruqia Shehzadi, University of Agriculture, FaisalabadFollow
A two years (2014-15 and 2015-16) field experiment was performed to find out the effect of plastic film and straw mulching on yield, water use efficiency (WUE) of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and selected soil properties. There were three treatments i.e. control, plastic film and straw mulch. No mulch was added in control. Rice straw was applied on the surface at a rate of 5 Mg ha-1. Soil samples in 0-15 cm and 15-30 cm depths were taken and analyzed. Soil water contents at 20 cm interval every 7 days were determined in 0-160 cm soil depth before sowing, after harvesting and during growing seasons. Results showed that grain yield was increased significantly by 29.8 in 2014-15 and 35.6% in 2015-16 over that of control under straw mulch. Straw mulch also decreased total water use with an increase in WUE. Soil bulk density was decreased significantly with a significant increase in porosity, water stable aggregates, active carbon, organic matter and soil water contents after harvesting. Soil water storage was higher under straw mulch for most sampling times. In conclusion, mulching soil with straw can sustain wheat yield and improve WUE and soil properties.
https://doi.org/10.35691/JBM.0202.0151
Javed, A., Iqbal, M., & Shehzadi, R. (2020). Effect of Plastic Film and Straw Mulch on Wheat Yield, Water Use Efficiency and Soil Properties in Punjab, Pakistan, Journal of Bioresource Management, 7 (4).
DOI: https://doi.org/10.35691/JBM.0202.0151
All Issues Vol. 7, Iss. 4 Vol. 7, Iss. 3 Vol. 7, Iss. 2 Vol. 7, Iss. 1 Vol. 6, Iss. 4 Vol. 6, Iss. 3 Vol. 6, Iss. 2 Vol. 6, Iss. 1 Vol. 5, Iss. 4 Vol. 5, Iss. 3 Vol. 5, Iss. 2 Vol. 5, Iss. 1 Vol. 4, Iss. 4 Vol. 4, Iss. 3 Vol. 4, Iss. 2 Vol. 4, Iss. 1 Vol. 3, Iss. 4 Vol. 3, Iss. 3 Vol. 3, Iss. 2 Vol. 3, Iss. 1 Vol. 2, Iss. 4 Vol. 2, Iss. 3 Vol. 2, Iss. 2 Vol. 2, Iss. 1 Vol. 1, Iss. 2 Vol. 1, Iss. 1


Dropping weight, or more specifically, body fat, is a very common topic of discussion among most exercise and sports enthusiasts. How to prevent or minimise muscle losses is a big part of that discussion. Pure Edge's consulting Sports Dietitian, Rebecca Hay of The Athletes Kitchen, takes us through an interesting study into this question.
Our level of muscle mass is major influencer of our metabolic rate – and loosing muscle will decrease this. The impact of decreasing our metabolic rate has long term effects on the success of our efforts to stay lean by decreasing the amount of energy we need to function. For those participating in exercise and sport, the loss of muscle may also lead to a decrease in performance.
There have been many, many studies done on this topic and there are also thousands, upon thousands of testimonials from companies and people telling us that they have the magic potion that will make this happen. Sadly there is no magic potion or diet or activity that leads to this.
So what do we do? What do we manipulate in our diets to either maintain or increase muscle mass and decrease body fat? And how much protein do we actually need?
PRO – Intervention group receiving a diet that provided 2.4g protein per kg of body weight.
Both groups has their total energy intake restricted to ~33cal (138kJ) per kg of lean body mass (LBM). This is very low and provided about 60% of their daily requirements for maintenance.
All foods and drinks were provided, including a predominantly whey protein and carbohydrate supplement, that was consumed immediately after training.
The fat intake of the control group was higher than the intervention group (almost double) and the carbohydrate intake was matched in grams per kg of bodyweight.
Both groups exercised 6 days a week in the gym and were also instructed to complete no less than 10,000 steps each day.
So what happened after 4 weeks?
the PRO group had an increase in lean body mass (muscle) compared to the CON group.
The PRO group had a greater reduction in fat mass.
PRO and CON had similar gains in exercise performance.more gains may be made for the "leaner" group in their next phase of training. More gains may be made for the "leaner" group in their next phase of training but that was not part of this study.
In this group of young men a greater muscle gains and fat losses were seen with a low calorie, high protein diet than in a lower calorie diet with the a lower protein diet.
I listened to one of the authors of the study talk about the impact that such a low energy intake had on the participants – he said that most of them reported they though about food all the time and after each meal they would think about what they were having for their next meal. Most of them answered "hungry" when asked how they were feeling!
So the moral here is that this works. The higher intake of protein with an overall restriction of energy from all macronutrient groups works. A word of caution though – this level of energy restriction did leave participants feeling consistently hungry…..not the best way to feel if you are trying to do more than just train, sleep and eat.
You can increase your protein intake with the Pure Native WPI or Organic Pea & Rice Protein supplements from the Pure Edge range. Each serve will add an extra 22-23g protein. It is ideal to use these in recovery with extra carbohydrates – Pure Edge's Re-Load Energy can supplement your carbohydrate intake.


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10 Health Benefits of Sex for Women
Is your sex life helping your well-being? It turns out sex is associated with a large number of women's health benefits. People who regularly have sex report being happier and feeling more connected to their partners. But there are many other reasons why maintaining a healthy sex life is a good idea. Is sex good for women's health? Yes. Here's why.
1. Lowers stress
Several women's health issues, like heart disease, are a result of stress. For some, sex is a great way to relieve stress. During sex, the brain's pleasure centers are hit with dopamine while levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, drop. Oxytocin, which boosts feelings of friendship and happiness, is also released. This chemical cocktail can have a calming effect when you're feeling stressed.
2. Boosts your immune system
Research conducted at Wilkes University found that college students who had sex at least once a week had higher levels of immunoglobulin A in their saliva. Immunoglobulin A is an antibody that helps the body fight off bacteria and viruses.
Sex can boost serotonin too. This hormone helps produce "happy feelings," and scientists believe that there's a link between depression and serotonin levels.
Find out what you can do with our Health Assistant
3. Lowers your blood pressure
High blood pressure can lead to serious or fatal cardiovascular complications. Research shows that high blood pressure also negatively impacts female orgasm. Sex has been linked to lower systolic blood pressure readings.
4. Improves cardiovascular health
Sex and health are closely linked. In one study, women who reported having a satisfying sex life had a reduced risk of hypertension and other problems. The study's authors posit that the quality of sex is more important for female's health than the frequency — having satisfying, happy sex is good for your heart. It might be because a woman's sexual satisfaction with a partner is often linked to improved emotional well-being.
5. You sleep better
Sex can help relieve insomnia. After orgasm, prolactin, a hormone that promotes relaxation, is released. And research shows that sex triggers the production of significantly more prolactin than masturbation does.
High libido is associated with improved self-esteem and pain resistance, among other benefits. You'll feel more desire for your partner, which can turn into feeling more desired yourself.
7. Works your pelvic floor
Pelvic floor muscles, which are responsible for controlling the flow of urine (among other things), can become weaker with age or after pregnancy. During sex, these muscles get a good workout. You can exercise them on your own by doing Kegel exercises, but sex will also put them to work.
8. Creates intimacy
Researchers have found that sex creates intimacy and affection in relationships. The more sex a couple has, the more they feel connected to each other. Research also shows that physical touch and affection are very important, even for couples who have been together for a long time. And talking to a partner after sex to discuss your feelings and fantasies benefits your emotional health.
9. Protects your brain
One study found that women who remained sexually active into old age had better cognitive functioning than those who didn't. Researchers measured the women's ability to recall words and adjusted the results to account for factors like depression and physical activity level. Sexually active people performed much better on the test.
10. Burns calories
You won't burn a ton of calories — some estimates put it at five calories per minute — but it's not nothing.
A satisfying sex life: Major benefits
Sex and sexuality are topics still considered taboo by some. However, sex is a normal, healthy activity that can benefit your health and help keep your body and mind active as you age.
Dr. Andrei Marhol — General practitioner, medical advisor, Flo Health Inc., Lithuania
Brennan, Francis X., and Carl J. Charnetski. "Sexual Frequency and Salivary Immunoglobulin A (IgA) - Carl J. Charnetski, Francis X. Brennan, 2004." SAGE Journals, 1 June 2004, journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.2466/pr0.94.3.839-844?journalCode=prxa.
Brody, Stuart, and Tillmann H C Krüger. "The Post-Orgasmic Prolactin Increase Following Intercourse Is Greater than Following Masturbation and Suggests Greater Satiety." Biological Psychology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 10 Aug. 2005, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16095799/.
Wright, Hayley, and Rebecca A Jenks. "Sex on the Brain! Associations between Sexual Activity and Cognitive Function in Older Age." Age and Ageing, Oxford University Press, Mar. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4776624/.
Young, Simon N. "How to Increase Serotonin in the Human Brain without Drugs." Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience : JPN, Canadian Medical Association, Nov. 2007, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2077351/.
Liu, Hui, et al. "Is Sex Good for Your Health? A National Study on Partnered Sexuality and Cardiovascular Risk among Older Men and Women ." SAGE Journals, 6 Sept. 2016, journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0022146516661597.
Doumas, Michael, et al. "Female Sexual Dysfunction in Essential Hypertension: a Common Problem Being Uncovered." Journal of Hypertension, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Dec. 2006, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17082720/.
Guide to the best sex lubes: How to pick the one for you
Bleeding after sex: What you need to know
Vaginismus: How do I know if I have it?
Burning during sex: What causes the stinging sensation?


The husband of well-known South African author Nikki Bush was shot dead at close range on Saturday morning during a robbery at their home in Douglasdale' Johannesburg.
Bush said her husband was awakened by their dog barking. When he stepped out to the patio two men were approaching their home from the garden.
"My dog was barking and my husband stepped onto the patio to call her back in. They took him out at close range with a revolver. He managed to close the patio door but they shot him through the glass'" Bush said.
Bush and her youngest son were in the house during this time when the robbers proceeded to enter the house after they shot her husband.
The robbers managed to get away with two cellphones' two watches and two laptops' Bush said.
The author said that emergency services came to the scene as soon as they could but the robbers had already fled the scene.
"We have lost a good man' a community-minded man'" Bush said.


Often, people with LGMD first notice a problem when they begin to walk with a "waddling" gait because of weakness of the hip and leg muscles. They may have trouble getting out of chairs, rising from a toilet seat or climbing stairs.
Weakness in the shoulder area may make reaching over the head, holding the arms outstretched or carrying heavy objects difficult. It may become increasingly hard to keep the arms above the head for such activities as combing your hair or arranging things on a high shelf. Some people find it harder to type on a computer or other keyboard and may even have trouble feeding themselves.
Assistive devices, such as a cane or a long-handled reacher, can make things easier as weakness progresses.
A power wheelchair or scooter becomes convenient when weakness in the pelvic girdle and upper legs causes frequent falls. People whose LGMD has reached this stage often find that a great deal of their independence returns, and they're much less fatigued, when they begin using this type of vehicle.
The heart can be affected in LGMD, but this doesn't occur as often as it does in some other forms of muscular dystrophy. Heart problems can take two forms — weakness of the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy) and abnormal transmission of signals that regulate the heartbeat (conduction abnormalities or arrhythmias). The heart should be monitored for these complications. When necessary, medications or devices (such as pacemakers) can be used to treat them.
Respiratory (breathing) function can decline over time, and this, too, should be monitored regularly. There are devices that can help sustain respiratory function.
LGMD, like other muscular dystrophies, is primarily a disorder of voluntary muscles. These are the muscles you use to move the limbs, neck, trunk and other parts of the body that are under voluntary control.
The involuntary muscles, except for the heart (which is a special type of involuntary muscle), aren't affected in LGMD. Digestion, bowel and bladder functions and sexual function, which are carried out by involuntary muscles, remain normal.
Pain isn't a major part of LGMD, although limited mobility sometimes leads to muscle soreness and aching joints.
Exercises to keep joints limber, moving around as much as possible, warm baths and, if needed, medication can keep this kind of discomfort to a minimum.
The brain, the intellect and the senses are unaffected in LGMD. People with LGMD can think, see, hear and feel sensations as well as those without muscular dystrophy.


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Home»Empower»Cortney Jones: Superwoman Has Boundaries
Cortney Jones: Superwoman Has Boundaries
Cortney Jones, founder of nonprofit Change 1, urges boss moms to remember to nurture the self.
By McKenzie Henningsen, Photos courtesy of Cortney Jones
After growing up in foster care, Cortney Jones was suddenly faced with the brutal reality of many 18-year-olds in the system: homelessness. But after attending Texas State University for social work and earning her master's degree, Jones decided she wanted to protect Austin's youth from experiencing what she went through. In 2013, she founded her nonprofit organization, Change 1, which helps foster youth find their way in the world. On top of her demanding career, Jones is also an adoptive mother of two.
With so much on her plate, Cortney Jones answers the question: How do you do it all?
Don't be afraid to do the work on your own.
I'm only one person, [but]I wanted to be the change I wanted to see in my community. I was once in foster care myself. That's what made me want to become a social worker. But reality set in. Starting a nonprofit was a lot harder than I thought. Having my own nonprofit while working full-time, while being a mom, it was hard to navigate. I was bursting at the seams. So, I made a lot of mistakes, and I grew in a lot of ways during that time. But I still did the work, regardless of being afraid.
Remember why you started.
In 2007, I came up with the concept of starting my own nonprofit. I wanted to give back and help kids who had encountered the foster care system. Because I went through that system myself and I aged out into homelessness, it really means a lot to me for kids to not go through what I went through. But [with Change 1], I'm able to show them something different, and I'm able to create opportunities that will help them see there is light at the end of the tunnel. That's what makes me want to continue to do what I'm doing.
Trust that you can do it.
Motherhood is challenging, but it's rewarding when you see that your child is growing and developing and grasping the things you're trying to implement in their life. I didn't think I had the capability of being a mom because I never really saw it modeled for me through [having]a mother. But you just get the strength from somewhere. I realized that I have super strength I never thought I could have or never thought that was there. I enjoy being a mom because all the things I wish would have happened in my life, I'm able to ensure that it is happening in my children's lives. I'm proud to be a mom. I'm proud to know that I have the strength that I never thought that I had.
Remember who's number one.
What happens with mothers is that we become the wife, the mom, the employee. We become everything to everyone, and we lose who we are. Through being a boss, through being a mom, through being an entrepreneur or whatever it is that you are, don't lose yourself. Schedule time to love yourself. Practice self-care. Remember, if you're no good for yourself, you can't be good for anybody else.
It's okay to set boundaries.
Cut off work and don't take that home. In the beginning [of Change 1], there was no separation. I said yes to everything, and I was burnt out. I had to have a season of saying no. Had to understand that if I'm burnt out, stressed out because I'm saying yes to everything, I'm not giving 100% to it all. I need to make sure that whatever I'm focusing my energy on, I have the time to do it. Had to learn to compartmentalize. I had to learn that my work was going to be okay if I left it there at 5 p.m. I had to condition myself to believe that it's okay to say no, and it's okay to compartmentalize things. It's okay to set boundaries because it's needed. Yes, you're superwoman, but superwoman has boundaries.
READ MORE FROM THE JANUARY ISSUE
Change 1 Cortney Jones Foster care foster care system
Previous ArticleSee Her Work: Valerie Steinkoenig — The Magic of Motherhood
Next Article Leslie Stiba: Overcoming Obstacles and Paying it Forward
Women in Numbers: Call Me Mother!
Laila Scott & Pop-Up Birthday: Healing Foster Children Through Joy
My Life as a Single Foster Mom


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4. HUB3.0 (3 USB3.0 ports) supports multiple devices at the same time.
5. HDMI 4K HD video output.
6. 3.0 for SD/ TF card read / transmit data at high speed, OTG bidirectional support.
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Material: aluminum alloy spray oxidation + high light polishing side.


On 3rd November 2005, the Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (the "Government") and the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Union of Teachers (the "Union") entered into a collective agreement. Article 16 of the collective agreement provided for a no pay leave of absence of up to six months for certain Union members to contest elections. The first three appellants, Elvis Daniel, Addison Thomas and Kenroy Johnson (the "appellants"), were teachers in the public service of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and were also Union members. They sought to engage article 16 by applying for leave to contest the general election held in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on 13th December 2010. The application was addressed to the Chief Personnel Officer of the Public Service Commission (the "CPO") who replied by letter, drawing the appellants' attention to section 26(1)(d) of the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Constitution (the "Constitution"), which provides that no person shall be qualified to be elected as a representative if he holds or is acting in any public office. At the time of the application, the appellants were holding a public office.
Having failed to obtain election leave, the appellants resigned their posts as teachers and unsuccessfully contested the general elections. They wrote to the CPO seeking reinstatement to their posts. The CPO replied indicating that there was no vacancy to which the appellants could have been appointed. The appellants by fixed date claim sought various declarations, including a declaration that article 16 does not offend section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution. The appellants also sought an order for reinstatement and damages for loss suffered and for breach of their constitutional rights.
The learned judge struck out the claim. The judge found, inter alia, that the import of section 26 of the Constitution was to prohibit those who continue to be public officers from offering themselves as candidates for political office, while they remain public officers.
The appellants, being dissatisfied with the decision of the learned judge, appealed. The grounds of appeal raised the following issues for this Court's determination: (i) whether article 16 of the collective agreement is ultra vires section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution; (ii) whether article 16 gave rise to a legitimate expectation that the appellants would be granted leave to contest the general election and if unsuccessful, would be reinstated to their posts or to equivalent posts; (iii) whether the respondents acted in bad faith by refusing the appellants leave for the purpose of contesting the general election, and refusing to reinstate them to their original or equivalent posts after the election; and (iv) whether the respondents breached the appellants' constitutional right to protection of property.
Article 16 of the collective agreement does not and cannot qualify a public servant, in this case a teacher, to be elected as a representative, given the provisions of section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution. It only addresses leave to contest an election. Further, the provision of article 16 speaking to return to teaching posts or posts of equivalence in the public service without loss of benefits cannot be said to violate the Constitution. It therefore cannot be successfully argued that article 16 violates or seeks to amend section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution. To successfully challenge article 16, on the ground that it is violates section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution, it must be shown that there is something in its provisions that qualifies the appellants to be so elected. Article 16 is therefore not ultra vires section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution.
Section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Cap.2, Revised Laws of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 1990 considered; Section 35(1)(d) of the Representation of the People Act, Cap.9, Revised Laws of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 2009 considered; De Freitas v The Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Lands and Housing and Others 1 AC 69 considered.
The principle of legitimate expectation is based on the proposition that when a public body states that it will do something, a person who has reasonably relied on that statement should, in the absence of good reasons, be entitled to rely on the statement and enforce it through the courts. For a legitimate expectation to arise there has to be a clear, unambiguous and unqualified representation. By virtue of article 16, the Government committed itself to the grant of no pay leave for up to six months to the appellants to contest general elections; reinstatement to their posts or posts of equivalent status in the public service if unsuccessful; and no loss of benefits. The terms of article 16 are clear, unambiguous and devoid of relevant qualification, and certainly engendered a legitimate expectation on the part of the appellants.
Where the court finds a legitimate expectation of some benefit, it will not order the public authority to honour its promise, where to do so would be to assume the powers of the Executive. The issue engaged here is reinstatement to the public service, as contemplated by the second limb of article 16 of the collective agreement. It is a matter of judicial discretion whether a litigant who has been unlawfully dismissed or compelled to resign and has in fact ceased to perform any of the duties of his office, should be granted an order of reinstatement. The circumstances of the appellants' resignation from the teaching service in 2010, the length of time since their resignation, plus the court's lack of competence to determine the needs and requirements of the public service would make it inappropriate to permit the appellants to invoke the principle of legitimate expectation to compel their reinstatement to their original post or post of equivalence in the public service.
Rainbow Insurance Company Limited v The Financial Services Commission and Others UKPC 15 applied; R (Bibi) v Newland LBC 1 WLR 237 applied; Regina v Department of Education and Employment ex parte Begbie 1 WLR 1115 applied; The United Policy Holders Group et al v The Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago UKPC 17 applied; Hong Kong v Ng Yuen Shin 2 AC 629 applied;CCSU v Minister for Civil Service 1 AC 374 applied; Chief Constable of North Wales Police v Evans 1 WLR 1155 applied; Jhagroo v The Teaching Service Commission UKPC 63 applied.
Bad faith must be clearly alleged and proved. Mere error or irrationality and poor decision making does not of itself demonstrate bad faith. Additionally, errors of fact or law and illogicality will not demonstrate bad faith in the absence of other circumstances which show capriciousness. In the circumstances, the material the appellants seek to rely on to ground their allegation of bad faith does not rise to the level or standard on which such an allegation can be founded.
SBBS v Minister for Immigration & Multicultural & Indigenous Affairs FCAFC 361 applied.
The appellants' property rights violation argument concerns pension benefits. Pension benefits are amenable to protection as property rights under section 6 of the Constitution, unless the deprivation of benefits arises from a lack of qualification or entitlement to it. Once the appellants are entitled to pension benefits, in the absence of some lawful basis for its deprivation, in respect of which none has been advanced in this case, the appellants are entitled, not only to a declaration that their property right guaranteed by section 6 of the Constitution has been breached, but an assessment of damages for that breach, as a mere declaration would not be adequate given the nature of the breach.
Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago v Ramanoop UKPC 15 applied; Alleyne v Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago  UKPC 3 applied.
BAPTISTE JA: It is unremarkable for the citizen to invoke the Constitution as a means of redress in respect of action by the State where it is alleged that rights guaranteed thereunder are being contravened or are threatened with contravention. This case presents the rather remarkable scenario in which the State engages the Constitution to avoid the provisions of article 16 of a collective agreement it entered into with the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Union of Teachers (the "Union"), on the ground that that article is ultra vires the Constitution. How did we get here? We step back to 2005.
On 3rd November 2005, the Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (the "Government") and the Union entered into a collective agreement. Article 16 of the collective agreement provided for no pay leave of absence of up to six months for members of three years standing or more, to contest elections. At the hearing of the appeal, counsel informed the Court that article 16 was hailed by the Government as a progressive step for incentivising persons with ability and diversity to serve as elected representatives. The first three appellants, Elvis Daniel, Addison Thomas and Kenroy Johnson ("the appellants"), were teachers of 30 years standing in the public service of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and were also long-standing members of the Union. They sought to avail themselves of the facility provided by article 16 of the collective agreement by applying for leave to contest the general election held in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on 13th December 2010. The application was addressed to the Chief Personnel Officer of the Public Service Commission, Tyrone Burke, who replied by letter, drawing the appellants' attention to section 26(1)(d) of the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Constitution  (the "Constitution"), and ended by saying "I await your response".
Section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution essentially provides that no person shall be qualified to be elected as a representative if he holds or is acting in any public office. It also makes provision for Parliament to prescribe exceptions and limitations to the prohibition. None were prescribed. There is no dispute that at the time of the application, the appellants were holding a public office.
The Chief Personnel Officer replied by letter: "Please note that there is no vacancy at this time to which you can be appointed".
It is apparent that in seeking reinstatement, the appellants would have been guided by a provision in article 16 of the collective agreement which stated that in the event that the member is unsuccessful, that member shall return to his/her original post or one of equivalent status, all benefits intact.
(4) The respondents continue to act in bad faith in refusing to honour the terms of the collective agreement and restore them to their teaching posts or posts of equivalent status within the public service, thereby violating the collective agreement and depriving them of their fundamental right to property guaranteed by section 6 of the Constitution.
The appellants also sought an order directing the respondents to restore them to their original teaching posts or to posts of equivalent status; damages for losses suffered as a consequence of the respondents' failure to honour the terms of the collective agreement and for breach of their constitutional rights.
A High Court judge struck out the claim as being entirely hopeless. The judge held that the import of section 26 of the Constitution was to prohibit those who continue to be public officers from offering themselves as candidates for political office while they remain public officers. Article 16 of the collective agreement seems to permit these public officers to vie for office as parliamentary representatives while maintaining all their benefits should they fail to secure the contested position. The clear reading of section 26(1)(d) means that a person is simply not qualified to be a candidate while he continues to hold public office as a teacher. The laudable aims of the article cannot trump the clear constitutional provisions.
With respect to legitimate expectation, the judge stated that the existing policy was expressly laid down in article 16 of the collective agreement, and there can be no answer to the respondents' argument that they wish to abolish it as having been made ultra vires and as such ab initio. The judge stated that a legitimate expectation must be legitimate. The qualifications for eligibility to seek election as a parliamentary representative are set out in the Constitution and can be changed by Parliament by following the procedure therein set out. It is not for the Government to do so by means of a contract, however well-intentioned. The learned judge further stated that the hiring of public servants is not a matter for the Government but for the independent Public Service Commission.
The learned judge addressed the issue raised by Mr. Ferguson, the appellants' counsel, as to whether the appellants were wrongly and unlawfully forced to resign from their posts, as no other option was available which would have allowed them to contest the 2010 elections. The learned judge opined that they could resign or remain as teachers. If they chose to remain as teachers, it cannot be gainsaid that they could not offer themselves as candidates. The learned judge also considered the issue of the entitlement of the first respondent to determine the qualifications of the candidates or prospective candidates at a general election. In that regard, the learned judge opined that the first respondent did not make any determination as to the eligibility of the appellants to stand as candidates. The Public Service Commission merely pointed to the applicable constitutional provisions and asked the appellants what was their position. It was the appellants who clearly felt that they would run afoul of section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution unless they resigned prior to nomination day.
(v) Whether the appellants were deprived of their fundamental right not to be deprived of property as guaranteed by section 6 of the Constitution.
With respect to the first issue, Mr. Ferguson contends in triplicity that: firstly, the learned judge erred in law in finding that article 16 of the collective agreement is ultra vires section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution. Secondly, further or alternatively the judge erred in not holding that article 16 does not offend section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution. Thirdly, the judge erred in holding that article 16 amounted to an attempt to amend the Constitution without complying with the requisite constitutional provisions.
Mr. Ferguson advances an interpretative basis for his submission that article 16 does not amend or offend the Constitution. The proposition being that article 16 is a prudential interpretation of the fundamental democratic rights entrenched in the Constitution, allowing the participation of teachers in the electoral process where the standing for elective office would not compromise the integrity of the office in the public service. Mr. Ferguson regards the starting point to be the fundamental right to freedom of association entrenched in section 11(1) of the Constitution and notes that section 11(2) thereof allows Parliament to pass laws that "imposes restrictions upon public officers that are reasonably required for the proper performance of their functions". Mr. Ferguson draws upon the general proposition in De Freitas v The Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Lands and Housing and Others  that civil servants hold a unique status in a democratic society which does not necessarily justify a substantial invasion of their basic rights and freedoms.
In keeping with the interpretative theme, Mr. Ferguson essentially complains that the learned judge used a restrictive textual analysis in interpreting section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution by simply looking at the words of the section and ascribing a narrow meaning to them. In the premises, Mr. Ferguson submits that the judge erred by interpreting section 26(1)(d) through statutory lenses. Mr. Ferguson prays in aid the authorities which advance the proposition that a Constitution is interpreted with less rigidity and greater generosity than Acts. Mr. Ferguson submits that although the judge applauds the rationale of article 16 as laudable, he arrived at the wrong conclusion by applying a narrow statutory interpretation approach and holding that it was ultra vires section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution.
In further advancing his position that article 16 of the collective agreement does not amend the Constitution, Mr. Ferguson observes, quite correctly, that the thrust of section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution is to avoid public officers holding both elected office and public office at the same time. Mr. Ferguson argues that article 16 does not facilitate a position whereby a public officer holds elected office and a public office at the same time. In the premises, Mr. Ferguson contends that no real contradiction exists between article 16 and section 26(1)(d). In further developing that thesis, Mr. Ferguson posits that had the appellants been successful they would not have been able to return to the service. It would have been a switch over from public officer to elected member. Hence the reason why article 16 has a precondition for re-entry into the service.
Mr. Ferguson submits that that the broad and generous interpretation of article 16 he contends for, and which is required, embraces and recognises the provisions of section 26 (1)(d) and facilitates a teacher, wishing to contest elections to do so. It assures leave of absence without pay to contest elections after three years in the teaching service. In the event of being unsuccessful, a return to their original post or one of equivalent status, all benefits intact. In the absence of article 16, the teacher would have to resign his position, thereby losing his benefits. There is no guarantee of re-employment. Therein, says Mr. Ferguson, lies the benefits of article 16.
The reasons proferred by Mr. Williams, the respondents' counsel, for resiling from article 16 are that it is ultra vires section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution in that a public officer is not qualified to be elected or appointed as a representative. It is also ultra vires section 35(1) (d) of the Representation of the People Act,  and rule 6 of the House of Assembly Election Rules of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines .  The rule provides that every candidate shall, at the time of his nomination, deliver or cause to be delivered to the returning officer, a statutory declaration of his qualifications made and subscribed by such candidate in form 3. Part 4 of the declaration in form 3 requires the candidate to confirm that he does not hold any public office or acts in any public office as is referred to in section 35(1)(d) of the Representation of the People Act, upon pain of fine or imprisonment, if the statement is false and which he knows to be false or does not believe to be true.
Mr. Williams reminds the Court of the triteness of the law that an agreement which contravenes the provisions of a statute and moreso the entrenched provisions of a Constitution is void and unenforceable and no rights can flow or accrue therefrom. Only Parliament can permit public officers to be eligible to contest elections. No other entity has the power or authority to make such an agreement as it would represent a usurpation of the power of Parliament. Mr. Williams submits therefore that article 16 is unenforceable.
Having set out the parties' competing arguments, section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution falls for consideration. Materially, the section provides that no person shall be qualified to be elected or appointed as a representative or senator if he, subject to such exceptions and limitations as may be prescribed by Parliament, holds or is acting in any public office. Straight away, it is noted that section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution speaks to persons who are not qualified to be elected or to put it otherwise, it speaks to disqualification. It disqualifies a public officer from being elected or appointed as a representative or senator. Another point – a critical one, I may say, is that section 26(1)(d) provides for Parliament to prescribe exceptions and limitations to the disqualification imposed. Section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution is quite translucent. It simply means that the appellants would not be qualified to be elected to Parliament while being public officers, absent Parliamentary prescription of exceptions and limitations.
Parliament has not prescribed any exception or limitation to the prohibition contained in section 26(1)(d). In no way can article 16 of the collective agreement be considered or regarded as such. So at the time the appellants sought leave, pursuant to article 16 of the collective agreement to contest the general election, as public officers, they were not qualified to be elected to Parliament. Of course, the appellants were never elected to Parliament. Further, their leave application was overtaken by subsequent events, notably their resignation from their teaching posts before nomination. In the circumstances, when the appellants contested the general election, they were no longer public officers and in that regard, no issue could arise as to their qualification to be elected.
Materially, article 16 is threefold in its construct: (1) upon application, no pay leave of absence of up to six months to contest elections; (2) if unsuccessful, a return to the teaching post or a post of equivalence in the public service; and (3) no deprivation of benefits. It is not by happenstance that article 16 avoids addressing the issue of a successful election bid by a public officer. The reason is fairly obvious, as it could not, in face of the disqualification imposed by section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution, seek to address the issue of a teacher being successful at the polls.
The limb of article 16 of the collective agreement providing for a leave of absence to contest general election seems to be the basal part of the discussion relating to constitutional legitimacy. That limb does not and cannot qualify a public servant to be elected as a representative, given the provisions of section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution. From its terms, article 16 does not deal with qualification to be elected as a representative. That matter is not within its purview. As it does not so deal, it cannot be successfully argued that it violates or seeks to amend section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution. Article 16 of the collective agreement, which provides for leave to members of the Union to contest a general election, does not immunise them from the disqualification provision of section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution.
Section 36(1) of the Constitution vests the High Court with the jurisdiction to hear and determine any question whether any person was validly elected as a representative. If the election of a public officer is successfully challenged on the basis that he was not qualified to be elected to Parliament, in terms of section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution, the question of his reinstatement to the public service and the terms of that reinstatement are not matters covered by section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution. Accordingly, the limbs of article 16 of the collective agreement dealing with reinstatement and no loss of benefits do not violate section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution.
In conclusion, to successfully challenge article 16 of the collective agreement on the ground that it is violates section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution, it has to be shown that there is something in its provisions that qualifies the appellants to be so elected. There is nothing in the provisions of article 16 qualifying the appellants to be elected to Parliament. Article 16 deals with leave to contest. A provision granting leave to teachers, upon application, to contest a general election, does not qualify them to be elected to Parliament. It was open to the Government to initiate the requisite steps for Parliament to prescribe exceptions and limitations to the disqualification imposed by section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution. The fact that this was not done does not transform a provision granting leave to contest a general election into one that violates the Constitution. Further, the provision of article 16 speaking to the return to teaching posts or posts of equivalence in the public service, without loss of benefits, cannot be said to violate the Constitution.
I now address the question of the position of public officers in a democratic society. As recognised in De Freitas, as a general proposition, civil servants enjoy a special position in a democratic society. As the servant or agent of the State, a civil servant or public officer enjoys special advantages and protections and correspondingly must submit to certain restrictions. The preservation of the characteristics of impartiality, neutrality and loyalty of civil servants or public officers has long been recognised in democratic societies as necessary in preserving public confidence in the conduct of public affairs. The Board recognised this as at least one justification for some restraint on the freedom of civil servants to participate in political matters and is properly to be regarded as an important element in the proper performance of their functions.
The Board further recognised that the general proposition of the uniqueness of civil servants or public officers in a democratic society does not necessarily justify a substantial invasion of their basic rights and freedoms. The Board stated that the restrictions which may, consistently with the Constitution, be imposed upon the freedom of expression and assembly in the case of civil servants must be restrictions which are reasonably required for the proper performance of their functions and must be reasonably justifiable in a democratic society. The Board noted that it is a fundamental principle of a democratic society that citizens should be entitled to express their views about politicians, and while there may be legitimate restraints upon that freedom in the case of some civil servants, that restraint cannot be made absolute and universal.
The learning contained in De Freitas is quite instructive and ought to carry great resonance in this period of Caribbean civilisation. The intendment of the forward thinking article 16 of the collective agreement is surely a step in the right direction. The learned judge saliently observed that the civil service position the appellants occupied require no sensitivity; the pool of persons qualified to run for office as parliamentary representatives is small; and is further diminished if persons willing to serve can only do so on pain of loss of all benefits to pensions and rights accrued over decades if their bid for political office fails. The learned judge concluded that it was open to the Government to utilise section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution to prescribe for teachers to be elected, but this could not be done by way of an article in a collective agreement.
I noted Mr. Ferguson's arguments with respect to the issue of interpretation of a Constitution as opposed to an ordinary statute. In my judgment, the framers of section 26 (1)(d) of the Constitution were evidently alive to the infelicities – some of which were identified by the learned judge – which could be occasioned by a blanket disqualification of public officers from being elected to Parliament. In that regard, the Constitution itself provides an ameliorative avenue to mitigate the infelicities which may be visited by such a blanket prohibition. In other words, while section 26(1)(d) disqualifies public officers from being elected to Parliament, that disqualification is not absolute. Section 26(1)(d) contains the very important qualification, "subject to such exceptions and limitation as may be prescribed by Parliament".
The position is that Parliament has been endowed with the authority to prescribe exceptions and limitations to the disqualification to be elected to Parliament imposed by section 26(1)(d). In that context, the issue, contrary to what Mr. Ferguson contends, is not one of the interpretation. It boils down to the Government initiating the requisite action to enable Parliament to prescribe the necessary exceptions and limitations to achieve the beneficence gleaned from article 16 of the collective agreement. As the learned judge correctly pointed out, this cannot be done by a collective agreement. Article 16 in my view, provides a mutually agreed platform to inform such prescription. The critical point is that without Parliament prescribing exceptions and limitation to the disqualification of public officers, the disqualification to be elected, imposed by section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution, would operate as a bar. No interpretation of article 16 can change that position.
The second issue to be addressed concerns the principle of legitimate expectation. Mr. Ferguson argues that the learned judge erred in law in holding that legitimate expectation could not arise despite the respondents' failure to honour the collective agreement. Further, the learned judge erred in failing to hold that that the appellants had a legitimate expectation pursuant to article 16 that they would be reinstated in their respective posts or posts of equivalent status after their unsuccessful election bid. Mr. Williams seeks to uphold the judge's decision, essentially positing that one cannot rely on a legitimate expectation which will conflict with a statutory duty. Mr. Williams relies on the proposition that no legitimate expectation can arise where the body lacks authority or power to make the representation. In any event, Mr. Williams argues that article 16 is ultra vires the Constitution so no legitimate expectation can arise.
The court will enforce an expectation only if it is legitimate. Nobody can have a legitimate expectation that he will be entitled to an ultra vires relaxation of a statutory requirement.  For an expectation to be legitimate, the party seeking to invoke it must show, inter alia, that it lay within the powers of the authority both to make the representation and to fulfil it.  A legitimate expectation can only arise on the basis of a lawful practice or promise.  Under English domestic law, there can be no legitimate expectation that a public body will confer a substantive benefit when it has no power to do so.
By virtue of article 16 of the collective agreement, the Government committed itself to the grant of no pay leave for up to six months to the appellants to contest general elections; reinstatement to their posts or posts of equivalent status in the public service if unsuccessful; and no loss of benefits. It is trite law that for a legitimate expectation to arise there has to be a clear, unambiguous and unqualified representation. The terms of article 16 are clear, unambiguous and devoid of relevant qualification. I have no doubt that they engendered a legitimate expectation on the part of the appellants.
When article 16 was agreed upon, the Government must have been aware of the provisions of section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution. A provision it now seeks to invoke to thwart the legitimate expectation engendered by article 16 of the agreement. While invoking section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution to disavow article 16, the Government appears to pay no regard to the fact that the said section speaks to Parliament prescribing "such exceptions and limitations". The argument that article 16 violates section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution does not square off with the fact that the said section contains the mechanism to obviate the disqualification bar.
The Court heard Mr. Williams' ultra vires argument. The ultra vires doctrine provides that a public authority which derives its powers from statute cannot validly act outside those powers. It must be recognised that the issue here is not about a statutory body or authority acting outside the parameters of a statute or being asked to relax a statutory provision or assuming upon itself powers it does not possess and thus acting unlawfully. This is the central government entering into a collective agreement with the Union containing the impugned article 16. Undoubtedly, the fullness of the purpose sought to be achieved by article 16 could only achieve efficacy by parliamentary prescription of exceptions and limitations to the qualification bar on public officers imposed by section 26(1)(d).
Given that position, it lay exclusively within the purview, province and power of the Government to initiate the necessary steps to enable Parliament to prescribe the exceptions and limitations to the bar imposed. Neither the appellants nor their union could take such steps. There is no evidence on the record that such steps were even attempted. Alas! Instead of doing what was required and provided for by the Constitution, the Government invoked part of the same section of the Constitution to disappoint the expectation of the appellants. The Government acted with conspicuous and manifest unfairness towards the appellants.
It was unfair for the Government to resile from giving effect to the legitimate expectation contained in article 16 by not seeking the necessary Parliamentary prescription in terms of the exceptions and limitations to the bar imposed. The appellants addressed that issue in terms of bad faith but it is most apt to discuss it here. In their affidavit evidence, the appellants deposed that the respondents acted in bad faith by not putting in place the regulation to deal with the Collective Agreement. In my judgment, the appellants were clearing complaining of Government's failure to seek parliamentary prescription in terms of exceptions and limitations as provided for by section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution, thus trumping their legitimate expectation. There was no overriding public interest justifying Government's position.
In legitimate expectation cases, the issues of fairness and good administration are engaged. It is therefore instructive to engage the applicable law. There is no doubt that a public authority can change policy. In R (Bhatt Murphy (a firm) and others) v The Independent Assessor ,  Laws J broadly summarised the place of legitimate expectation in public law. He stated that the power of public authorities to change policy is constrained by the legal duty to act fairly. A change of policy which would otherwise be legally unexceptionable may be held unfair by reason of prior action or inaction by the authority.
It has been recognised that the principle of good administration prima facie requires adherence by public authorities to their promise. Whether it does so require must be determined in the light of all the circumstances. It has also been said that there is value in holding Governments to promises they have made thus upholding responsible public administration and allowing people to plan their lives sensibly. In Francis Paponette and Others v The Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago ,  Lord Dyson observed at paragraph 42, that the breach of a representation or promise on which an applicant has relied is a serious matter. Fairness as well as the principle of good administration demands that it needs to be justified. Often, it is only the authority that knows why it has gone back on its promise. At the very least, the authority will be better placed than the applicant to give reasons for its change of position. If it wishes to justify its act by reference to some overriding public interest, it must provide the material on which it relies.
At paragraph 46, Lord Dyson stated that where an authority was considering whether to act inconsistently with a representation or promise it has made and which has given rise to a legitimate expectation, good administration as well as elementary fairness demand that it takes into account the fact that the proposed act will amount to a breach of the promise. The promise and the fact that the proposed act will amount to a breach of it are relevant factors which must be taken into account.
A clear and unambiguous representation was made to the appellants. Article 16 induced a legitimate expectation of a substantial benefit. It was reasonable for the appellants to rely on it. They sought to rely on it to their detriment. It was unfair for the Government to resile from giving effect to the representation, thus frustrating the expectation. Fairness and good administration required that it be justified. This has not been demonstrated.
Even where the court finds a legitimate expectation of some benefit, it will not order the public authority to honour its promise, where to do so would be to assume the powers of the Executive. The issue engaged here is reinstatement to the public service, as contemplated by the second limb of article 16. It is a matter of judicial discretion whether a litigant who has been unlawfully dismissed or compelled to resign, and has in fact ceased to perform any of the duties of his office, should be granted an order of reinstatement.  The circumstances of the appellants' resignation from the teaching service in 2010, the length of time which has expired since their resignation, plus the court's lack of competence to determine the needs and requirements of the public service would make it inappropriate to permit the appellants to invoke the principle of legitimate expectation to compel their reinstatement to the original post or post of equivalence in the public service.
I now deal with the issue of bad faith. The appellants contend that the learned judge erred in law in not holding that the respondents acted in bad faith in refusing to grant them leave to contesting the general elections and refusing to reinstate them to their original post or a post of equivalence in the public service. For their part, the respondents deny bad faith. The appellants contend in their skeleton submissions that: (i) a court is entitled to draw inferences from established facts; and (ii) bad faith should not be inferred from the facts if those facts are equally consistent with mere negligence. Further, the actions of the first respondent constituted a deliberate effort to prevent the three appellants, who all belonged to the opposition party, from being nominated and from contesting the general election.
In their joint affidavit in support of the fixed date claim, the appellants seek to provide an evidential basis for the allegation of bad faith. They deposed that the respondents acted in bad faith by not putting in place the regulation to deal with the collective bargaining agreement. The appellants stated their belief that the respondents in good faith would honour the collective agreement and restore them to their original posts or to ones of equivalent status. The appellants also stated that the respondents' position is wilful and vindictive.
It is convenient to address the issues raised pertaining to the resignation of the appellants and whether a determination was made with respect to their eligibility to be candidates for the general election. In their skeleton arguments, the appellants state that prior to nomination day they were forced to resign their positions as teachers after the first respondent neglected or refused to grant them leave, contrary to the terms of the collective agreement. The parties dispute whether the letter from the Chief Personnel Officer, consequent upon the appellants' application for leave to contest the general election, constituted a denial of the application for leave.
I have no difficulty in concluding that the response from the Chief Personnel Officer to the appellants' request for leave constituted an implied rejection of their leave application. A factual inference can be drawn that by directing the appellants to section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution, the Chief Personnel Officer was in effect saying to them that as public officers they were debarred from contesting the general election. Further, the Government was resiling from the terms of article 16 of the collective agreement on the ground that it violated the Constitution. In fact, the respondents advanced that position at this appeal. The respondents' evidence that they did not refuse leave is unconvincing and unacceptable.
The appellants seek relief under the constitution alleging breach of their property rights. In their written submissions in support of the appeal, the appellants state that the failure to restore them to the original post or a post of equivalent status has caused them to lose all their benefits, including pension, accumulated after long and outstanding years of service in the teaching profession.
In their skeleton arguments, the respondents agree that if the appellants' appeal is successful, they may be entitled to damages. They however contend that such a determination can only be made after a hearing on the facts with cross-examination to determine: (i) whether or not the respondents would be responsible for the appellants' resignation; (ii) whether the resignation was reasonable; (iii) and whether, having heard the facts, an award of vindicatory damages is payable.
The issue to be determined is whether the appellants' right to the protection of their property as guaranteed by section 6 of the Constitution has been violated and if so, what is the appropriate redress. There is no dispute that the appellants resigned their posts as teachers to contest the general elections, lost at the poll, and unsuccessfully applied to be reinstated either to their original post or to a post of equivalence in the public service. By their resignation, the appellants brought their tenure of office to an end.
To my mind, the critical issue arising in respect of the appellants' property rights violation argument concerns pension benefits. Pension benefits would be amenable to protection as property rights under section 6 of the Constitution unless the deprivation of benefits arises from a lack of qualification or entitlement to it. The issue of the loss of pension benefits was in fact foreshadowed by the learned judge in paragraph 15 of his judgment, when he stated that the small pool of persons qualified to run for office as parliamentary representatives is diminished further if persons who are willing to serve can only do so on pain of loss of all benefits accrued over decades if their bid for political office fails.
The judge then asked the question whether the loser ought to be doubly penalised for his lack of success by depriving him of his expected pension rights. The learned judge answered affirmatively, although he felt constrained to do so. The constraint is understandable, given the learned judge's finding that article 16 of the collective agreement violated section 26(1)(d) of the Constitution. Having held au contraire, I do not share the constraints of the learned judge.
It appears to me that the learned judge made a determination that having resigned, contested and lost, the appellants also lost their pension benefits. In my view, once the appellants are entitled to pension benefits, in the absence of some lawful basis for its deprivation, in respect of which none has been advanced in this case, the appellants are entitled, not only to a declaration that their property right guaranteed by section 6 of the Constitution has been breached, but an assessment of damages for that breach, as a mere declaration would not be adequate given the nature of the breach.
On the state of the evidence, this Court is not equipped to make the assessment required. Apart from evidence of length of service of the appellants – 32, 30 and 39 years respectively – there is an evidential lacuna. I would therefore remit the matter to the High Court for assessment of damages. The judge would give such directions with respect to evidence and disclosure as required to facilitate the process. It would really involve a computative exercise reflecting expected pension benefits up to the date of the appellants' resignation.
For the reasons given, I would allow the appeal and set aside the judge's order dismissing the claim. I would remit the matter to the High Court for an assessment of damages by a judge for breach of the appellants' property rights protected by section 6 of the Constitution.
I would order that the Attorney General pay the appellants' costs of the appeal and in the court below, to be assessed by a judge if not agreed within 21 days.
 Cap. 2, Revised Laws of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 1990.
 Cap.9, Revised Laws of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 2009.
 See: Bingham LJ in R v Inland Revenue Commissioners, Ex p MFK Underwriting Agents Ltd 1 WLR 1545 at p.1569.
 See: Schiemann LJ in R (Bibi) v Newland LBC 1 WLR 237.
 See: Gibson LJ in Regina v Department of Education and Employment ex parte Begbie 1 WLR 1115.
 2 AC 629 at p.636.
 1 AC 374 at p.401.
 EWCA Civ 755 at para.50.
 See: Chief Constable of the North Wales Police v Evans 1 WLR 1155; Jhagroo v The Teaching Service Commission UKPC 63 at para.41.


We are excited to have Cathi O'Neill creating with us this month. Cathi is well known to all of us at C'est Magnifique and has been hanging around our forum for a long time. She is an awesome scrapper and we know you will fall in love our August kit when you see how she has used it. Her style has certainly developed over the past year and she is being recognized for it!
We will let you get to know her a little better (if you don't already), and then we'll give you a chance to see her creativity as she shows you how she has used the August Kit.
I am so excited to be guest designing this month for C'est Magnifique, I have been a long time subscriber and just love to see what Leslie has chosen every month!! My name is Cathi O'Neill, and I am an American (Maryland/DC area native) who married an Irishman and have been living here in Ireland since 1997. I live in a beautiful village on the Shannon River with my DH of nearly 18 years (wow, that makes me feel old!) and my two beautiful daughters, Aine (onya) 10 and Aisling (ashling) 8 who are the subject of many of my projects!!
was born!! I truly love creating and make vintage cards to sell here in our local village cafe as well as stacks of shabby/vintage style layouts of my girls to keep and share with family! I also love to do tags, ATC and altered projects, barely a day goes by when I haven't done something crafty!!
I am currently on the design teams for several manufacturers: Couture Creations, Molossi Chipboard, Paper Wings Productions, Tresors de Luxe Etsy Shop and Paper Temptress specialty cardstock store. I also design for challenge blogs Frosted Designs and Sugar Creek Hollow, and have guest designed for challenge blogs Keeping the Best and Scrap it with a Song.
Take a look at how Cathi has used our August Kit, "A Day in the Park"
Cathi, thank you so much for joining us as our Guest Designer for August.
We are all fans of the way you use our kits!
Way to go, Cathi! beautiful projects. So happy to see your work with C'est Magnifique.
Beautiful work there my friend!! And the cards are an extra treat!! Love them!!
woohoo Cathi!! congrats!! beautiful LOs!! love them all!!
So over the top gorgeous! Glad to see you here as GDT!


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The 2021-2022 World Cup Season
sponsorshipApril 13, 2021
The 2021-2022 season was a very exciting season for the athletes of Team NewCold. Good performances in the World Cup season were important to secure a ticket for the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. Skeleton athlete Kimberley had an amazing winter season with medals in several World Cups. In total she has won six medals: 2 gold, 3 silver and 1 bronze. Through a great performance in St. Moritz, where she finished second in the World Cup and first in the European Championship, Kimberley was crowned overall champion of the 2021-2022 World Cup season and rewarded with a starting spot at the Winter Olympics in Beijing.
Karlien Sleper, who competed on behalf of Team NewCold in the Women's Monobob discipline, also had a good season. She won two silver medals in Lillehammer, Norwayin the Women's Monobob World Series, after a few good races in the Monobob competition, she also qualified for the Olympic Winter Games in Beijing.
All athletes of Team NewCold who competed in the World Cup competition had qualified for the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games. The 2021-2022 season was very successful!
Keeping you posted about our latest developments
NewCold announces it has signed a strategic partnership with ChainCargo to fast-track its expansion
Investing in new cold storage facilities in Australia
NewCold To Make Henry County's Single-largest Investment With State-of-the-Art Distribution Facility


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Billboard to Host 2021 BBMAs Twitter Spaces Discussion
MusicMan April 27, 2021 2 min read
Selected finalists for the 2021 BBMAs will be announced Wednesday: NBC's Today show will reveal finalists in the top Hot 100 artist category live in the Pop Start segment in the 8 a.m. hour ET/PT, while E!'s Daily Pop will reveal finalists in the top Latin male artist category starting in the 11 a.m. hour ET/PT and Access Hollywood will reveal finalists in the top rap female artist category live starting at 7:30 p.m. ET/PT.
Finneas and Maggie Baird, Luis Fonsi, Jon Batiste, Tate McRae and Verzuz creators Swizz Beatz and Timbaland will help announce all the 2021 BBMAs finalists during Billboard Music Awards – The List Live, which will stream Thursday starting at 11 a.m. ET/8 a.m. PT on both Billboard and Billboard Music Awards' Facebook and Twitter accounts. The show will be hosted by Access Hollywood's Zuri Hall and comedian LaLa Milan.
Billboard Music Awards – The List Live will also feature appearances by Anitta, Bretman Rock, Brianne Howey and Antonia Gentry, Chris Sullivan, Jay Pharoah, Kandi Burruss, Kyle Richards, Leslie Jordan, Lisa Rinna, the New Voices Bay Area TIGQ Chorus, Nick DiGiovanni, Paris Hilton, Rob Gronkowski, Tanya Rad and Brad Goreski, Tika the Iggy, Tim Anderson, Wisdom Kaye and more.
The 2021 Billboard Music Awards are set to air Sunday, May 23, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on NBC from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. The show will air live across the country.
Billboard Music Awards finalists and winners are based on key fan interactions with music, including album and digital song sales, streaming, radio airplay, and social engagement, tracked by Billboard and its data partners, including MRC Data. This year's awards are based on the chart period of March 21, 2020 through April 3, 2021. Fan-voted categories this year include top social artist and top collaboration.
The 2021 Billboard Music Awards are produced by dick clark productions. Barry Adelman and Robert Deaton are executive producers.
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Joshua Block – VIRGIN STEELE Solar Artists
Hailing from New York, NY Josh has been honing his musical craft for almost 30 years, and has long proven himself to be a sonic force to be reckoned with both on stage and in the studio. This year in 2020, he's celebrating his 20 year anniversary with the Godfathers of Epic Power Metal, Virgin Steele.
His influences span many heavy metal sub-genres, and vast musical studies include formal training in jazz and classical. In the studio, he has recorded and produced several records with major label credits, and also composes for TV and film. Josh is proud to represent the Solar badge in all his upcoming endeavors.
Joshua Block – VIRGIN STEELE On social media


Wow! Where is the oriental exotic person come from?
from china? I think I saw this person in Chinatown before……or not?
Korea? …but Korean people must has more beautiful skins, they have tons of face pack!!!
OMG! I have no idea, where the hell this person from?


(SNO) — With an impasse between firefighters and government still ongoing, Chairman of the Saint Lucia Firefighters Association (SLTA), Shane Felix, said both the ruling United Workers Party (UWP) and opposition Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) have failed them.
The firefighters are presently on strike over wage negotiations and other matters, which they say have been affecting the service for decades now, and there have been no concrete commitment "from any side".
He stated that it is time Saint Lucians understand how "callous that the authorities continue to act showing no regard to who we are as a people".
Felix told MBC that the same problems existed in 2014 when the SLP was in power and firefighters took industrial action for about 14 days.
They returned to work after meeting with then acting prime minister, Philip J. Pierre, but he said the firefighters were deceived.
He stated that in the 2014 meeting with Pierre, it was promised that a committee would be set up to look into the implementation of a sexual harassment policy and a committee to look into a promotion policy but nothing has happened since then.
Meanwhile, Felix told MBC that at a meeting between the association and the Government Negotiating Team, they were informed that the government would not negotiate under duress and the firefighters should return work.
He said the matter would be conveyed to the general membership of the SLFA.


Below you can find links to see subpages from the category 'Online'. You can quickly access other pages of this category this way.
Here you can find a contact form, to become partners with the website. If you do not receive an answer after one week, it's because you are denied.
– We do not accept forums.
– You must have an HQ fansite, with a great design, and that is often updated.


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William Hill Becomes the Title Sponsor of Racing League
By Eva Ivanova
This the sponsorship it has secured all naming rights of the league, including at its host racecourses
The Racing League has high-profile sponsors, among which are ODDSbible, eToro, talkSport, Swish and GOAT Agency
William Hill has announced that it has become the title sponsor of the inaugural "Racing League," the UK horse racing's first team-based competition.
William Hill to become the title sponsor of Racing League
William Hill has become the title sponsor of Racing League, the UK horse racing's first team-based competition. The sponsorship aims to revive the interest of the public in "heritage sports."
As title sponsor, William Hill has secured all of the naming rights of the league, including at the competition's four host racecourses in Newcastle, Doncaster, Lingfield Park and Royal Windsor.
The Racing League begins on Thursday, July 29, at Newcastle Racecourse, and features 12 teams riding in 36 handicap races. The competition takes place over six weeks.
Huge Prices for the Championship Horse Racing
Championship Horse Racing, the competition organizer, guaranteed around $2.5 million (£1.8 million) in prize money at stake on the racetrack and $68,811 (£50,000) for each race. There will be $275,245 in race day bonuses for the winning team and top three jockeys.
Ahead of the beginning of the competition, William Hill has set ante-post prices for each of Racing League's 12 teams, based on their chance of winning the League, and sponsoring around $206,439 of the bonus.
Racing is part of William Hill's DNA
CMO of Racing League, Oli Harris, said that William Hill is one of the biggest names in the industry and, as such, it would help bring Racing League to a new profile level. He said the league looks forward to working with the company and anticipates the first event within a week or so.
William Hill Head of Sponsorship, Liam McKee, said, "At William Hill, racing is part of our DNA, and the Racing League is a truly unique and innovative project that we are delighted to be involved in. Bring on next Thursday."
Racing League has high-profile teams sponsors for the inaugural competition – ODDSbible, eToro, talkSport, Swish and GOAT Agency.
William Hill to Become International Content Leader
In June, William Hill announced its partnership with leading content platform Contentstack as part of its strategy to become an international content leader.
Its goal is to develop an innovative experience for its brand – William Hill Vegas. The online platform features a new content management system, superior data analytics and market independence.
Recently it became clear that some big companies like 888, Apollo and Advent, are showing interest in purchasing William Hill's non-US assets from Caesars Entertainment. New sponsorship deals have the potential to increase the value of the company prior to any arrangement.
Eva Ivanova, Author
Eva is a PR specialist and communications expert with ten years of experience in campaign organizing and creative writing. She is also a published author of fictional stories. Eva recently developed an interest in economics and the gaming industry after discovering the inspirational story of Molly Bloom.
Massachusetts Could Launch Sports Betting Before End of the Year
France's Gaming Regulator Unhappy with Gambling Ads during Euro Cup


These lightweight snips are a handy addition to your project bag. An easy-to-grip plastic handle and a cap to protect the blade mean no worries of jabbing your fingers on an open blade. Available in a range of pretty colors.