Volume 8 Issue 33 by The SUN Newspaper

AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

VOLUME 8 No. 33

$1.00

TROUBLE IN

PNP CAMP

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BY HAYDEN BOYCE PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

A fire-storm of controversy is raging within the Progressive National Party (PNP) over how the party is handling its candidate selection process and how it is preparing for the November 9th general elections as a whole. Matters have gotten so serious that one contender for a seat Devon Williams wants PNP elections for North and Middle Caicos candidate to be declared null and void, while George Lightbourne from Grand Turk has taken issue with the party’s plan to allow deputy leader Carlos Simons to run in one of the two seats there through an endorsement by the PNP’s National Executive Committee, instead of having a run-off. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

LOBSTER SEASON OFF TO GREAT START READ ON PG 9

TWO NEW CANDIDATES STORY ON PAGE 10 FOR PNP READ ON PG 10 READ ON PG 10

The 2012 lobster got off to a great start, with more than 54,000 pounds of the delicacy being caught between Providenciales and South Caicos over the first two days. In this photograph, a fisherman from Five Cays shows off his big catch. - (Photograph by Kelano Howell)

SEE FOUR PAGES OF KUTE KIDZ - STARTS AT CENTRE PAGES

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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

LOCAL NEWS

AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

Trouble in PNP camp ...Cont’d

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

In correspondence to PNP leader Dr. Rufus Ewing which was obtained by The SUN, Lightbourne stated: “Dr Ewing, I have never felt more disrespected in my life. This has to be the lowest the party has ever stooped in the history of our politics. To undermine the wishes of the people in the Grand Turk north district could only be regarded as disgraceful. I am even more disappointed in you as leader to sit by and allow this sort of crap to go on. To change the rules in the middle of the game and deny the democratic process to play out is an indictment on your leadership and I will do everything in power to ensure that he (Carlos Simons) loses.” The SUN understands that the PNPs from Grand Turk prefer someone from the island-capital to run in the Grand Turk North constituency, instead of someone who doesn’t live there. This newspaper understands that there are also controversial issues surrounding the candidates for the Leeward seat, and the Wheeland seat. MEantime, broadcaster and politician Devon Williams has written to Progressive National Party (PNP) chairman Trevor Cooke demanding to have the election results and corresponding recommendation of Mr. R. Don-Hue Gardiner for candidate for North and Middle Caicos, forthright and immediately rescinded and declared null and void. In the strongly-worded letter,

PNP leader Dr. Rufus Ewing

Williams told Cooke and the PNP that failure to act in accordance with his demands, will result in him filing injunctions in the TCI court and recommending a full investigation by the Governor's Office, The Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the Westminster Foundation for Democracy and TCIG’s Director of Strategy Dr. Phillip Rushbrook. In the run-off for a candidate on Tuesday, Gardiner was declared winner with 56 votes, followed by Pastor Ernest Forbes Jnr. with 34 votes and Williams with 33. According to Williams, the elections should be declared null and void for one or more of the following reasons:1.The election was vulgar and contravenes the party constitution. 2.The rules were not followed as written and a number of persons who qualified by the written rules were denied the opportunity to vote.

Carlos Simons

3. The was not sufficient notice give to candidates prior to the polling process. 4. A number of party supporters and constituency members were not notified of the process or the date or the time of the voting. 5. The voting in Bottle Creek took place at a private unit owned by Don Hue Gardiner's uncle and auntie despite multiple objections from myself and Pastor Earnest Forbes. This location was not central and a number of persons refused to go there for different reasons. 6. The lights were turned off in the building a number of time during the voting and the counting leaving the room completely dark for periods of time. The lights where the box was being kept was very dim. 7. During the beginning of the election you used indecent language to me and threatened me

Devon Williams

verbally. You should have at that point removed yourself from the protest as you had showed publicly that you were against me winning the election and could no longer preside over the process fairly. I asked you to allow someone else to complete the process and you responded, "I running this show (expletive) so deal with it." 8. There is no functioning constituency council in North and Middle Caicos. 9. The Chairmen of old constituency councils that form parts of the new constituency were never officially notified of the process or asked to be a part of it. 10. The photo copied ballots were not numbered, sealed or stamped in any way to ensure legitimacy and could easily be counterfeited, there were also a number of ballots left lying around the table. Despite objections you ripped open both of the ballot boxes after the count had started and dumped the contents all together after you entered the room with another cardboard box which we were not allowed to inspect to see if it was empty or if it was stuffed with rigged counterfeited ballots. Williams demanded Cooke to instruct the NEC and the NGC to reserve its position on the candidate for the North and Middle Caicos Constituency until this matter is resolved in a transparent and decent way, declare the candidate position in North and Middle Caicos null and void, instruct Mr. Gardiner to vacate the position as candidate elect and discontinue speaking form the platform of candidate. He also asked Cooke to remove himself totally from the candidate selection process “as to avoid a repeat of the debacle” and have the party's NEC formulate proper bylaws to give the constituencies workable guidelines for holding meetings and conduction selection processes. He also called on Cooke to step down as chairman of the PNP because of the “shame and disgrace you brought to this vulgar and illegitimate process that you have grossly mismanaged to say the least”.

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

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AUGUST 5TH25TH, - AUGUST 2011 JANUARY 13TH --JANUARY 20TH, 2012 12TH, TURKS TURKS&&&CAICOS CAICOSSUN SUN AUGUST 18TH AUGUST 2012 FEBRUARY 17TH - FEBRUARY 24TH, 2012 TURKS CAICOS SUN AUGUST 5TH - AUGUST 12TH, 2011

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e numbers within the numbers There is nothing that they In the last few days, the can do to cover up the fact that Interim Administration, in the since their tenure here there guise of its various agents has has not been a new project that been putting out al lot of has come on stream. The one numbers into the public thing that had the greatest domain. What we have to do chance of coming to fruition, though, is to see what they all that was left behind from the mean and to what extent they previous political are relevant to our daily lives. administration was the Shore The first set of numbers that I Club. would like to examine, are They gutted all of the those with respect to incentives, made them pay an population. undisclosed to the public hush The information indicates money and the project is still that between the last time the not off the ground. What they census was taken and now, don’t understand is that the that the population has ROYAL ROBINSON original basis on which the CONTRIBUTER increased by some 58%. This project was developed had would give you the false been removed and additional impression that the growth path is trending upward funds had to be found to fill the gap. That seems or moving in a positive direction. What is not seen is the breakdown of the years between 2007 and not to be forthcoming from the original investor group. The project is thus languishing in a state of 2012. If you were to take the statement by Carl limbo. The GDP data is also out. The rosy picture that Simmons in 2009/10 about having more containers they are trying to portray is not borne out by the leaving Providenciales than those coming in, and actual numbers. Again, under the Interim that these containers contained the personal effects Administration’s watch, the downward trend has of people leaving that island, you must realize that not been arrested as they would want us to believe. the population had peaked and was trending They are selling us a bill of good to say that they downwards. have done a marvelous job since they came and Of course, if you took the absolute numbers of before they leave. They are trying to say that they the previous census and the information of the end are handing to the political directorate a healthy game of 2012, the numbers would look as if they economy that is doing well. The signs of ills are were trending upwards. This is the false premise everywhere to be seen! Do not fall for the banana that the Interim Administration would like to give in the tail pipe trick. to the local population as well as to the world. This No matter how they might try to hide the fits nicely into their painted picture of all being well numbers, 2008 was our best year overall. Whether since their arrival in “paradise”. you use current prices, constant prices or constant These people continue to spit in our faces and basic prices the numbers remain the same. The one want us to think that it is fine rain! We know and sector that has continued to out-perform everything understand the numbers better than they do! They else has been hotels and restaurant sector. have to understand that they might be entitled to Our tourism numbers have been going up for their own opinion, but not their own facts. some time now so that we passed the 1M tourist

AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

Turks and Caicos Sun Suite # 5, Airport Plaza Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Tel: (649) 946-8542/ (649) 241-1510 Fax: (649) 941-3281 Email: sun@suntci.com Read us online at www.suntci.com

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief: Hayden Boyce Senior Editor: Vivian Tyson Journalist/Web Designer: Patrina Moore-Pierre Graphics Editor: Joleen Grant Office Manager: Dominique Rigby Distribution Manger: Kelano Howell Advertising and Marketing ManagerPatrina Moore-Pierre The Turks and Caicos SUN is a subsidiary of The SUN Media Group Ltd. We are committed to excellence in journalism, educating and informing our readers, serving and satisfying our advertisers and assisting in the overall development of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

arrival last year. That was not by any work by the Interim Regime, but by the seeds that had been planted and watered by successive political government. That good will is coming to an end sadly. The Tourist Board has not been properly funded to allow it to carry out its mandate properly. There is only talk about putting money in priority areas. Those priority areas so far have not been properly serviced. You cannot think that you will withdraw the heat from the pot and the food on the fire will get cooked. All you can expect is “sobby” rice. All that I will say now is that the Audit report for the time period that the Interim Administration has been in power is past overdue. Those numbers would be instructive as they would indicate the areas on which our money has been spent and whether or not we got value for money for the expenditure! Royal Robinson was a former Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance and Health in the Progressive National Party (PNP) Administration.

EDITORIAL CARTOON TURKS AND CAICOS SUN’S LETTERS POLICY

The Turks and Caicos SUN welcomes Letters to the Editor. Letters containing libelous or defamatory charges, personal attacks or abusive language will not be considered for publication. We would prefer letters of 500 words or less, and we will not print anonymous letters or letters tagged with initials. All letters are subject to the final approval of the Publisher and Editor-inChief, who reserves the right to accept or reject submissions and to edit letters and headlines to meet our established standards for grammar, clarity and length.

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

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AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

LOCAL NEWS

Additional funds urgently needed to fix roads in Turks and Caicos Islands There is an urgent need to divert additional funds to repairs and maintenance, to bring Turks and Caicos Islands roads and other transport infrastructure up to standard. This was one of the findings of the just-released transportation policy of the TCIG, which stated that the funds allocated to maintenance of roads are far below international standards. According to the report, the expenditure on road maintenance in the past has been dramatically lower per mile than any other country in the Caribbean region. However this has been addressed during this financial year and the allocation is now similar to the lowest countries in the region. The report noted that by regional standards TCI does not have excessive deaths on roads but it is still higher than average by Caribbean and developed world

standards at approximately 14 deaths per 100 000 population per year (2010/11 figures). Caribbean countries such as Jamaica, Barbados and St Vincent are all lower than TCI. Countries such as UK, Sweden and Germany have less than 5 deaths per 100 000 per annum. The UN declaration of the International Decade of Action for Road Safety to save 5 million lives is being addressed by TCIG and consideration is being given as to the most cost effective means to save lives. Currently TCIG has not officially published its statistics. Although it is acknowledged that accidents will still happen TCIG’s aim is to reduce the impact by reducing the risk of death and serious injury especially to vulnerable road users such as cyclists, motor cyclists, pedestrians and children, who all need to be protected. The report said consideration is

being given to an education campaign for children in school, similar to one implemented in Belize, which led to a 50% reduction in road deaths in one year. According to the report, an enduring feature of the government’s vision for road transportation is the construction of a Spine Link to connect the islands. The link has been discussed since the 1960s. The two options are a road connecting Providenciales to South Caicos via causeways or a more limited link from Providenciales to North Caicos or North Caicos to South Caicos. The report said the general consensus favours a limited spine in the medium term connecting Providenciales to North Caicos. “ It is clearly the most straightforward way to integrate the different parts of the national economy although there are several concerns. It would be expensive; it is

subject to engineering uncertainties; and there are social concerns about linking the more rural islands directly with the highly developed tourism economy of Providenciales,” the report added. The North - Middle Caicos causeway was constructed in 2007 and a further investment of $1.325m from TCI Government sale of assets has been budgeted in 2012 to complete repairs from the devastating Hurricane Ike. The existing road network on the islands, particularly on Providenciales and Grand Turk, has deteriorated during the recent years of economic difficulties and needs to be improved to protect past investment in the system. The intention is to bring the existing network up to the standard expected in the more successful Caribbean nations and other analogous locations, not only the construction standards but also in safety design.

New Airport Constables to be trained The Turks and Caicos Islands Airport Authority in conjunction with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force will be training security staff in becoming special constables. The airport special constables will be trained and upon completion, they will have powers similar to the police force to arrest and even write tickets whilst on the airport property. This was very important to the TCIAA team to allow its staff to have powers to better carry out their job tasks. The idea of having special constables came about approximately 3 years ago when the group of 8 were initially trained by the police force. The constables will undergo 4 days refresher training led by the Deputy Commissioner Brad Sullivan and his team.

Juliette Arthur welcoming participants

Latusher Gibson Signing Oath

Frantz Bernadin Signing Oath

TAYLOR’S VARIETY STORE 5 Domestic Workers

2 Labourers 2 Electrician/Computer Techs 1 Security Guard Interested persons contact 649-441-0225 Deputy Commissioner Brad Sullivan addressing Special Constables

Gregory Bain Signing Oath

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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

LOCAL NEWS

AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

New bank blames constitutional crisis in Turks and Caicos Islands for its closure BY HAYDEN BOYCE PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Officials from International banking Group (IBG) said the “uncertainty that the constitutional crisis in the Turks & Caicos Islands generated” was one of the reasons why they were forced to close their bank in the Turks and Caicos Islands after a mere 25 months of operation. IBG, which is the second bank in the Turks and Caicos Islands to collapse in as many years, announced that it was winding down its operations in this British Overseas Territory on Tuesday, August 14th, exactly three years to the day after the UK Government instructed the Governor to enforce an Order-inCouncil suspending certain provisions of the TCI Constitution, including abolishing Cabinet and the automatic right to trial by jury and dissolving the House of Assembly and vacating the seats of all members. IBG, which is majority-owned by Cayman National Corporation, the largest indigenous financial services company based in another British Overseas Territory, the Cayman Islands, said in a media statement Tuesday that in addition to the constitutional crisis, the worldwide economic crisis, and the impact of the failure of TCI Bank were among the other “various unique events” that “conspired against the success” of IBG. “Despite measures to reduce costs, IBG has found it difficult to develop new business and ongoing losses have far exceeded original expectations,” the statement from the bank added. “In the circumstances we believe that the responsible action is to undertake an orderly wind-down of the retail banking operation and to ensure all depositors are paid out in full. We would add that for practical reasons we will continue to provide merchant services and some credit card

Customers wait in line at IBG fter they announced their pending closure

facilities. The process to wind-down the banking operations will now commence and customers of the bank are being advised accordingly.” Reacting to the bank’s closure, Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Ric Todd, did not address the bank’s claim that the constitutional crisis in TCI contributed to its closure, but he said that the closure of IBG, while “regrettable….is not a reflection of low confidence in the TCI economy”. He stated: “The economy remains strong and is growing, as demonstrated by the GDP figures (GDP growth of 4.1% in 2011) released by the government on 1 August 2012,” Todd said. Governor Todd said this action by IBG does not mean that the commercial banking sector in TCI is in trouble, adding that IBG is a “relatively small operator which holds few deposits and has a low number of loans on its books”. He added that the closure of IBG’s banking operations in the TCI does not compare with the collapse of the TCI Bank in 2010. According to the Governor, the Turks and Caicos Islands Financial Services Commission is in

Electrical Supervisor

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discussion with IBG to ensure that all depositor’s funds will be protected and returned to them as soon as possible; that the bank will seek to sell on all loans on their books to another commercial loan provider; and that IBG will contact their local shareholders directly to discuss their position. On Friday April 9th, 2010, the TCI’s FSC closed TCI Bank after the bank suffered a number of significant withdrawals of funds which left it unable to operate normally and meet its obligations on a timely basis. At that time the TCI Bank’s board of directors said that the manner in which the FSC undertook the closure and liquidation of the bank could have “tragic consequences for the financial sector and the local economy on a whole”. The directors said that at the time the bank was placed into liquidation, representatives of the Bank and its major depositors were at an advanced stage of negotiations with an investor that would have significantly strengthened the Bank and allowed it to expand its operations. Three months after TCI Bank collapsed, on Monday July 19th,

2010 International Banking Group opened its doors to the public, in a three-storey building with 35 staff, 15,000 square feet, 6 tellers and ATM services, and promising to offer, among other things, banking products with the highest level of customer service. At the official opening of the bank, the then Acting Governor Mark Capes said: “We all know that these are difficult times...most organisations are looking to become leaner and more efficient in what they do but it’s the really smart ones who are positioning themselves for the economic recovery, which many forecasters predict is not far away.” He added: “This [International Banking Group] is an excellent forward-looking organisation. It’s a world-class bank. This evening sends out a very clear and positive signal to the world: the TCI is open for business and we welcome investment. I have no doubt at all, given their record, that International Banking Group, IBG, will soon be an acronym as well known as IGA.” Also at the opening, Stuart Dack, president and chief executive of Cayman National Corporation of International Banking Group said: “(This) marks the culmination of effort that spans many months. From obtaining our license in 2008, to designing our headquarters and seeing that come to completion in December 2009; from hand picking and training every member of staff, to ensuring that our technology is at the top of its game. This has been a long road, but one which puts us in good stead for great success going forward. “We entered this market knowing that the best way for us to succeed was by providing the best service. This means understanding our market and understanding the needs of persons and businesses in the TCI specifically – providing for their banking needs and anticipating those needs.”

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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

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AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

Fishermen parcel out their lobster catch

LOCAL NEWS

Fishermen bring in their lobster catch

Lobster season oﬀ to a great start The 2012 lobster got off to a great start, with more than 54,000 pounds of the delicacy being caught between Providenciales and South Caicos over the first two days. Henry Wilson, deputy director of the DECR, said 34, 133 pounds of lobster were landed in South Caicos for the first two days, while 20,426 were landed in Providenciales. “This was clearly one of the best starts for the lobster season that

we’ve had in a while,” Wilson told The SUN. “Last season the bank opened up one month late on September 1st, and that may have been a contributing factor. Plus, last year the banks were still experiencing the effects of the damage from hurricanes Hanna and Ike which had disturbed the shoals. The shoals have now been revitalized to the extent where they are providing food for the lobster and fish and that’s encouraging.”

BUTTERFIELD GOLD POSITIONS AVAILABLE

ONE (1) IT SPECIALIST The successful applicant will be responsible for the deployment, configuration and maintenance of all the computer hardware and software utilized throughout the organization. Responsibilities: • Design, install, configure and administer domain controllers, file servers, mail servers workstations, network devices and web-page hosting/maintenance • Set up and administer security groups, user accounts, group policies and security restrictions; Maintain network connectivity, telephone equipment, and other network appliances. • Install and configure surveillance equipment and surveillance management software Maintain Point-Of-Sale (POS) operating on Microsoft SQL platform, and attached paraphernalia, including scales and hand held • Provide support, analyse data, run macros/scripts for P.O.S using SQL platform Requirements: • B.Sc., Computer Information Systems • Minimum of 3-4 years experience carrying out responsibilities listed • Experience with Active Directory and Microsoft Server 2003/2008, Microsoft SQL Server, Microsoft XP/Vista • A detailed understanding of TCP/IP is essential • Excellent written and oral communication skills; highly selfmotivated, able to work without supervision with keen attention to detail • Proven analytical, troubleshooting and problem-solving skills Only applicants selected for interview will be notified. Submit applications to by September 24, 2012 Butterfield Gold Human Resource Department Town Center Mall Providenciales Tel: 649-946-4211

On the first day in Providenciales, Stanford “Spider” Greene brought in 986 pounds, while Jaccius Artisstile got 843 pounds. Provo Sea Foods, owned by Ernest Rigby, got a total of 10,767 pounds on the first day. On the second day, Lofton Morley got 877 pounds and spider brought in 691 pounds. Provo had a total of 20,426 pounds on the second day. For the first day in South Caicos,

Louis Cox’s plant took in 8,691 pounds while Norman Saunders got 4,392 pounds and Jim Baker, 1,955. The first day in South Caicos had a total of 15,038 pounds. On the second day in South Caicos, Cox’s plant got 9.415 pounds, Saunders had 516 pounds and Baker, 664 pounds. Wilson said the lobsters are going for between $2.50 and $3 per pound.

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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

LOCAL NEWS

AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

Two new candidates for the PNP

Porsha Stubbs-Smith and one of her opponents George Pratt

The Progressive National (PNP) has chosen two new first time candidates to run in the next general elections. They are Porsha Stubbs-Smith who will run in The Bight and Adrian Williams who will contest the Blue Hills seat. Porsha defeated Karen Delancey and George Pratt to win the nomination, while Williams defeated Daaron Ewing. Stubbs-Smith said she was humbled to be nominated. “Well the candidacy process is a triplicate process, the first part is the vote from the constituents which I won on

Monday August 13, 2012. My feelings are that of humility. I believe that the people wanted a change, willing to give someone else another chance.” Asked to share some of her plans for the constituency, she said among the things planned with her team include a multipurpose community center, community upgrade, and job creation. Stubbs-Smith holds a M.A Interdisciplinary Studies – Management & Non Profit Leadership, Bachelor’s Business Management, University of Houston,

NOTICE

The general public is hereby notified that Mr. Julian Garland is no longer employed with the Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board and is therefore not authorized to act as an agent or conduct any transaction on behalf of the Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board. TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL INSURANCE BOARD

SEEKS 1 SALES CLERK AJ’s Auto Parts

To work Mondays to Saturdays Must have extensive knowledge of Japanese and Auto Parts and accessories Interested persons please contact ajsautoparts@express.tc or call 941-5962 MR JOSEPH H. JULES IS LOOKING FOR A HOME HELPER . THE PERSON WILL HAVE TO CLEAN FOR HIM, COOK , GIVE HIM HIS MEDICATIONS AND SLEEP OVER THE HOUSE 6 DAYS A WEEK. THE WAGE IS $5 PER HOUR. PHONE CONTACT 2426163.

Adrian Williams (pictured with his daughters) will contest the Blue Hills seat

Victoria Texas and there is a pending Certification in Banking from the Institute of Canadian Bankers, along with Phase I Electrician and a Certificate in Teacher Training Williams, a 32-year old taxi driver, said he proud and excited to have won the nomination. He said it was a tough decision for him initially, especially given that he grew up in a predominantly PDM family. “My mother (Doreen Been) has been strong supporters of the PDM for many years, so you could imagine that it would not have been easy for

me to make the transition to the PNP, but once I discussed it with her, she told me that if I was passionate about it she would support me in my endeavours,” he said. Williams said he would be tackling unemployment in Blue Hills, getting the millennium Highway fixed, improving on the primary health care facility in and paying more attention to the Clement Howell High School which he said is in a deplorable state. He is also looking at bring more tourism attractions and opportunities o the Blue Hills area.

Message From The Turks & Caicos Islands National Insurance Board

NOTICE TO ALL CONTRIBUTORS

1.Submission of Monthly Contribution Statements All contributors of the Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Programme are reminded that contribution statements MUST be completed properly with the National Insurance numbers of all employees before submission to NIB’s offices. It is not the responsibility of the National Insurance Board to insert National Insurance numbers on the contribution statements submitted by employers on behalf of their employees. 2. Late Payment of Contributions Contributors are also reminded that: • payments are due at the end of each month in order to maintain coverage; and • all contributions paid outside the 30-day grace period will attract a 10% additional charge for the first month and 3% for every month or part thereof of delay. 3. Contribution Rates It is an offence for an employer to require an employee to pay his\her National Insurance contribution in full. In the Private Sector the employer is required to pay 4.6% and the employee 3.4% of the salary up to $600.00 per week or $2,600.00 per month; In the Public Sector (Government) is required to pay 4.025% and the employee 2.825% of the salary or wage up to $600 per week or $2,600 per month. TCI NIB……..DOING OUR BEST TO ENSURE YOU’RE COVERED

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

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AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

LOCAL NEWS

Government explains reasons for delay on causeway Repairs to the Middle Caicos causeway continue to be a priority project for the Governor and the Government of the TCI said Wesley Clerveaux Permanent Secretary for Government Support Services. He said a total of $1.35 million was allocated in this financial year for repair works and tenders were invited and several bids received. However, Clerveaux said before the works can be completed, several engineering specifications must be undertaken, adding that as a result, the Government has entered into discussions with the preferred bidder to work out the details of the project. “Damage assessors have concluded that the causeway failed because the original culverts were too small and therefore inadequate to deal with the volume of water from storm surges during Hurricane Ike and Tropical Storm Hannah. Negotiations are ongoing concerning the required engineering solutions that must be undertaken during the rehabilitation to ensure, that the causeway is able to withstand similar onslaughts,”

Clerveaux said. He added: “Also of concern is the level of environmental damage caused when the causeway failed. The damage to the infrastructure damage also resulted in a die off of several mangrove species in the immediate area along the causeway. The failed culvert blocked the flow of water to the contributing to increased erosion of the remaining structure as there is not enough vegetation to break the impact of the waves.” Given the lessons learnt, Clerveaux said, TCIG is adamant that we will not repeat the mistakes of the past, and as such must take care to ensure that the details are clearly addressed before contracts are signed and the work commences. We are still in discussions with the proposed contractor and we are confident that we would be in a position to commence works soon. In a July 31st letter to Governor Ric Todd, Devon Williams reminded the Governor that earlier this year he (Todd) announced that the government was committed to the reconstruction of

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Interested applicants please contact: Robert Greenwood Regency International Estates CONTACT PERSON: TEL # 649-244-1151, EMAIL Robert@tcibrokers.com

the North and Middle Caicos Causeway which was damaged by hurricanes Hanna and Ike in 2008. “To date no work has been done on the causeway and no information has come out of TCIG to indicate when this project will start,” Williams wrote. “While I appreciate that there may be many issues that may be delaying the works these delays cannot continue. My investigations revealed that there are monies earmarked for this project and these monies are in the treasury. This project has dragged on long enough and is becoming an example of failure on the part of your government.” Williams said that in its present state the causeway is not only an eyesore but a hazard. “The original design has failed miserably and the entire project must now be rebuilt and redesigned. While the causeway connects two islands, it must be understood that this causeway spans across a natural waterway. The

current design will not work as it does not make sufficient provisions for water to naturally flow between the two islands especially in the event of abnormally high tides,” Williams added. “Everyone with the slightest knowledge of waterways and currents agree that a few buggies of dirt with an asphalt surface is not a sustainable way to connect two islands. We also know that these two islands must be connected. The causeway must be rebuilt and rebuilt to last. Your Excellency, today July 31, 2012, the causeway is officially one month past due based on the date you announced earlier this year. It cannot be allowed to go one day more. I am therefore requesting that you exercise your executive powers and have this project started within the next seven days and provide the residents of North and Middle Caicos with an explanation of the delay in the interim.”

CALL 946-8542 FOR MORE INFORMATION

MATS UNIFORM Is in need of a

SEAMSTRESS Kindly call 231-0047

TWO (2) KITCHEN HELPERS NEEDED

for Insight Ltd must speak english and be able to work nights and weekends. Salary $5 per/hr call 231-3323 or e-mail thepattyplace@gmail.com

CLAUDETTE GARDINER IS SEEKING ONE LIVE IN CARETAKER TO LIVE IN NORTH CAICOS Must have experience in elderly care for elderly female. Certification in Elderly care, CPR & First Aid. Salary is based on experience

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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

LOCAL NEWS

AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

PDM concerned about closure of IBG Bank The People’s Democratic Movement said it is concerned about the closure of the International banking Group Bank. In a press release, the PDM, which is led by veteran politician Oswald Skippings, said: “We see this (the closure of the bank) as another reason for a swift return to an elected Government; one that has always enjoyed the highest levels of investor confidence and whose policies were always investor friendly, transparent and beneficial to all peoples of these Islands.” The statement added: “We are grateful for the Bank’s leadership whose decision to close voluntarily, has resulted in the possibility for all its depositors to secure all of their deposits. We are however saddened that there are more Turks and Caicos Islanders who are adding to the already high level of unemployment. We believe that on return to elected Government, we will be able to send our people back to work.” The PDM noted that the Bank’s release cited a number of reasons for its “failing” and the party was particularly concerned as its inclusion

Oswald Skippings

of our country’s “constitutional crisis” ranked high in its decision to close. “We understand that this period of uncertainty has hurt our economy and will understandably add an extra cause of caution for an interested investor,” the PDM said. “We can assure the people of these Islands and the potential investors that we will be ready from day one and will immediately open these country’s doors for business.” The PDM also congratulated Sports Icon and Junior World

STAFF VACANCY – MANAGER, FINANCIAL SERVICES

Applications are invited from interested and suitably qualified individuals for the position of Manager, Financial Services, FortisTCI, Providenciales. OBJECTIVES & PURPOSE OF THE JOB • To provide and maintain reliable financial and business information to key management personnel as basis for sound decision making. • To ensure financial systems, data and reports are in accordance to generally accepted accounting principles, regulatory requirements and management goals and objectives. • To ensure Finance staff productivity in all areas of responsibility.

MAIN DUTIES/KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: • Accountable for company-wide accounting and financial reporting functions, including AP/AR/Payroll/General Ledger/Inventory/Fixed Assets/Work Order and Cash Receipts. • Maintains and monitors financial policies and procedures, ensuring operational and financial compliance with Group policies. • Collaborates with external auditors to provide in-depth assistance with periodic financial and inventory audits. • Provides timely and accurate reporting of month-end closings, and financial reporting activities. • Contributes to the achievement of business objectives through the accurate and timely identification and resolution of accounting issues/opportunities. • Establishes cross training as required. • Monitors the succession plan of subordinates to ensure that the department operates effectively and efficiently. • Provides coaching, guidance and support, set professional development plans to assist employees to reach their full potential through the Performance Management process. • Manages the financial system, ensuing maximum productivity and that it meets the needs of the business today and the future. • Oversees the continuous improvement of Accounting and Financial Processes and the development of the team with the goal to achieve best practices and optimal output. • Ensures that all finances are properly administered and monitored, including credit control. • Ensures that appropriate financial regulations and controls are in place and in use at all times. • Ensures that all financial reporting obligations are met in relation to cash management. • Identifies, investigates, and analyzes potential operational improvement. As appropriate, based on findings make proposal for operational changes (policy,

Champion Delano Williams on his recent achievement. Last week, Delano’s achievements were recognized in the UK and he was presented with the Lay Witness International for Christ Award for his role in sports. “We are proud of Delano, our Golden Boy and will commit to support every effort to expose him and to support his training for success in all ventures with the ultimate goal being to medal at the Olympics 2016,” says Deputy Leader Sharlene Cartwright Robinson. “We are equally proud of Dominique Missick who broke his own record last week in the Panther Track Meet and all the athletes who participated and did well. We recognize the need for proper athletic training programs and financial support through sports scholarships for all of our athletes and we are committed to ensuring that they are given the best support. We also wish to acknowledge and thank all our sports enthusiasts and athletes who participated in the recent Sporting events and Celebrations. We say thank you to these persons for keeping the

various sporting disciplines alive in these Islands. We recognize Sports for its unifying and disciplining force and for the benefits to our athletes and country. We have had many accomplishments with our athletes’ “natural talents and abilities” and we can do so much more with national commitment and support in every way.” Party Leader Skippings also paid tribute to Charles Maynard Jr., Chairman of the FNM Party in The Bahamas He said: “It is only appropriate and perhaps expected that we offer sympathies to The Bahamians living among us. We have always enjoyed close ties with The Bahamas and think it only fitting that we acknowledge this national loss and offer our sympathies to his family, Party colleagues and Bahamians everywhere. Charles was a very visible Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture and we note the achievements under his Ministry while serving. We see this as a tragic loss and trust that God will comfort and grant peace to his wife, three children, parents, siblings, other relative and friends and his FNM family.”

procedures, processes, etc.) • Maintains a documented system of accounting policies and procedures. • Ensures that sufficient funds are available to meet ongoing operational and capital investment requirements. • Maintains banking relationships. • Reports to management on variances from the established budget, and the reasons for those variances. • Engages in ongoing cost reduction analyses in all areas of the company. • Ensures that written performance evaluations of supervised employees are completed as required, provides continuous feedback on personnel performance issues, and takes immediate action to recognize achievements and address deficiencies or problems. • Ensures compliance with corporate policies, government regulations and GAAP standards • Other duties that may be assigned from time to time. ACADEMIC/WORK EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: • Must be a Bachelor of Science with a degree or major in Accountancy or a Master’s Degree equivalent. • Must be a CPA or CA or ACCA. Master’s degree, CMA, and CFA a plus. • Must have at least 5-10 years managerial experience. • Must have extensive working experience with one of the big 4 auditing firms. • Must possess 5-10 years’ experience in regulatory accounting and finance.

CORE COMPETENCY SKILLS: • Must possess a strong general utility and regulatory accounting background. • Must possess excellent team playing and leadership abilities • Must possess extensive working knowledge of financial management, internal controls, cost accounting, forecasting and budgeting techniques. • Must possess extensive knowledge in areas of generally accepted accounting and management principles. • Must possess the ability to ability to develop, monitor and maintain management information systems and procedures. • Must possess excellent oral and written communication, organization, analytical, and problem solving skills. • Must possess excellent working knowledge of MS Office software programs, including MS Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, and various databases. COMPENSATION Grade15 (US$79,000.00-$98,750.00 per annum)

Deadline for submission of applications is August 17, 2012. Please submit to: Director, Human Resources Fortis TCI Limited P. O. Box 132, Providenciales Email address: hrapplications@ppcltd.tc or by fax: 649-946-4532

Page 14

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS

MANAGER OF TRAVEL INDUSTRY SALES

Requirements: • Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience • Strong written and verbal skills with documented responsibility for promotions, sales and marketing. • 5-7 yrs in luxury travel/hospitality sales, with established relationships with top luxury wholesalers, travel agents, incentive houses, and meeting planners • Must have experience selling luxury Caribbean properties and understand wholesalers, FIT and high-end travel agency professionals. • Must understand sales metrics and reporting • Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties Include: • Analyzing sales and marketing statistics to determine profitability of sold business and opportunities within target markets • Negotiating and closing contracts, with approval of Director of Sales and Marketing • Creating 100% guest satisfaction and delivery of Regent Experience • Communicating sales and guest information to departments as appropriate • Identifying potential customers, initiating contact, and making sales call • Conducting on-site tour and sales presentation in accordance with brand standards Starting salary $40,000- 60,000 per annum

MECHANIC

Waste Water Plant Requirements: • Minimum 2 years prior experience in the Waste Water plant of a luxury hotel property. • Knowledge of water testing and reading sample results. • Proficiency with hospitality operating systems. • Strong organizational and time management discipline with ability to multi-task. • Solid judgment and ability to resolve conflicts effectively. • Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties Include: • Take water samples and provide testing for sediment amount, chlorine and ph. • Ability to make adjustments to the plant equipment pending outcome of testing results. • Washing down of all floats, sidewalks, equipment and railings on a daily basis. • The technician will also be required to fill the chlorine feeder with the proper amount of tablets as needed. • Responsible to do all checks and repairs on plant equipment to include air compressors, pumps and filter equipment. • Ensure that proper backwashing is done on a regular basis or as needed. • Required to legibly record all discrepancies and testing information on a daily record log. Starting salary $7.00 per hour not including service charge

EXECUTIVE HOUSEKEEPER

• Good communication and relationship building skills to interact effectively with managers and unit owners. • Must be able and willing to work all shifts and days Duties Include: • Develops and implements business strategies for the housekeeping department • Develops annual operating and capital expenditures budget for department • Directing the operation of the housekeeping department including guest rooms and public space areas and overseeing management staff • Inspecting back-of-the house areas continually and adjusts operations accordingly • Oversees inventory, purchasing, disbursement, cost control for all linens, cleaning supplies and guest room supplies • Adheres to brand marketing, sales and quality standards • Coordinates room availability with the Front Office Manager and room maintenance with Director of Engineering Starting salary $40,000-$60,000 per annum not including service charge

LANDSCAPING MANAGER

Requirements: • Minimum of 5 years experience in managing the landscaping department of a 5 star Luxury Caribbean Resort. • Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience • Expert knowledge of Zone 9 Caribbean landscaping. • Vast knowledge in horticulture, native plant species and chemical usage towards the prevention of plant disease and insect control. • Must have extensive experience with Irrigation systems and landscape maintenance. • Must have strong supervisory skills and demonstrated experience managing a grounds department. • Must be able to give direction and expertise in areas of basic landscaping, tool safety, chemical usage and operation of lawn equipment. • Must be able and Willing to work all shifts and days Duties Include: • Manages staff to ensure impeccable maintenance of grounds and landscaping. • Assisting in supervising and participating in grounds work. • Ability to identify areas for improvement and keeps abreast of latest trends in regards to plants, irrigation, landscape maintenance and chemical applications. • Ensuring proper utilization and maintenance of equipment and supplies. • Managing overall cleanliness of work, storage and space areas. Salary $30,000-40,000 not include service charge

INTERNAL TECHNOLOGY TECHNICIAN

Requirements: • Minimum of 3 years experience as an IT Technician • Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience • Must have experience working with Opera and Visual One, Mitel Phone System, Cisco CCTV System, Fiber Optic Music System (fiber optic), Micros, Data Works and Premier Spa • Must be able to respond quickly and effectively to diagnose and resolve hardware and software problems for all systems, and document tracks and reports on deficiencies, progress and follow-up • Must read, speak and write English fluently • Must be able to work all days and shifts and be on call for emergency service request Duties Include: • Providing routine maintenance of hardware, software and systems • Installing/configuring computers/telephones and point of sales equipment and other systems equipment. • Installing, maintaining and repairing wifi system equipment • Installing/maintaining/repairing CCTV System • Repairing/upgrading hardware and software. • Troubleshooting printers/scanners/copiers. • Maintaining inventory of equipment and supplies. • Maintaining server room(s) and ensuring proper security for such. • Completing system backups according to required schedule. • Providing infrastructure support: • Installing cabling • Researching, learning and evaluating new software and hardware • Documenting and maintaining record keeping for all systems Starting salary $32,000-$35,000 not including service charge

MANAGER OF TRAVEL INDUSTRY SALES

AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

understand wholesalers, FIT and high-end travel agency professionals. • Must understand sales metrics and reporting • Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties Include: • Analyzing sales and marketing statistics to determine profitability of sold business and opportunities within target markets • Negotiating and closing contracts, with approval of Director of Sales and Marketing • Creating 100% guest satisfaction and delivery of Regent Experience • Communicating sales and guest information to departments as appropriate • Identifying potential customers, initiating contact, and making sales call • Conducting on-site tour and sales presentation in accordance with brand standards Starting salary $40,000- 60,000 per annum

MECHANIC

EXECUTIVE HOUSEKEEPER

Requirements: • Must have minimum 10-12 years experience as an executive housekeeper in branded luxury hotel/resort • Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience • Must have knowledge of Opera (Fidelio) hotel operating system • Must have knowledge of laundry operations • Must have experience managing large department (50 or more employees) • Ability to train, coach and counsel staff • Ability to determine appropriate staffing levels based on anticipated business, and create staffing schedules which optimize the balance between desired profitability, and guest demands • Thorough understanding of the elements and components of luxury services, set-ups and supplies • Must have financial knowledge and ability to analyze P & L statements, develop operating budgets, forecasting and capital expenditure planning • Must have advanced knowledge of standard software applications • Good communication and relationship building skills to interact effectively with managers and unit owners. • Must be able and willing to work allshifts and days Duties Include: • Develops and implements business strategies for the housekeeping department • Develops annual operating and capital expenditures budget for department • Directing the operation of the housekeeping department including guest rooms and public space areas and overseeing management staff • Inspecting back-of-the house areas continually and adjusts operations accordingly • Oversees inventory, purchasing, disbursement,cost control for all linens, cleaning supplies and guest room supplies • Adheres to brand marketing, sales and quality standards • Coordinates room availability with the Front Office Manager and room maintenance with Director of Engineering Starting salary $40,000-$60,000 per annum not including service charge

Interested applicants should apply to Regent Palms, Monday through Friday and bring along an updated resume or by emailing marjorie.dorsett@regenthotels.com no later than August 24, 2012.

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS

LANDSCAPING MANAGER

INTERNAL TECHNOLOGY TECHNICIAN

BAR BACK

Requirements: • Prior experience working in a luxury restaurant environment

• Excellent communication skills • Attendance and timeliness • Completion of work assignment • Ability to understand the guest, internal and external, and meet and exceed the needs of both the guest and the company • Ability to provide genuine service through actions that display self-confidence, grace and courtesy to guests and colleagues • Must be able to work all days and shifts Duties Include: • Cleaning counters, floors, shelf and refrigerators; and removing trash • Checking coolers and shelves to ensure proper stocking of beers, wines and liquor • Restocking bar with ice when needed • Checking for supplies such as sugar, salt, stir sticks, straws, napkins, etc.; and requisition supplies when needed • Cuts fruits and garnishes • Restocking bar with clean classes Starting salary $5.25 per hour not including service charge and tips

Storeroom Clerk Requirements: • Customer services skills • 2 years experience work as a storeroom clerk • Must be able to work all days and shift Duties Include: • maintain the storeroom by properly storing all food, beverage and consumable goods in pre-designated areas with proper rotation • Maintains proper storage of all food goods in their predesignated areas • Keep storerooms organized and clean for proper storage • Maintain cleanliness of storerooms daily • Maintains and clean delivery truck • Deliver in-house requisitions to each department location and ensures that requisition is signed by the receiver. • Ensures that requisition signed by the receiver is given to Purchasing Director and Purchasing Assistant. • Keep close communication with Purchasing Assistant and Purchasing director on slow moving and non moving items in the warehouse • Collection of goods from Customs when necessary Starting salary $7.50 per hour not including service charge and tips

SPA ATTENDANT

Requirements: • Must posses and demonstrate the ability to interact with all guests and team members effectively with tact and diplomacy in line with property's service standards. • Must be able to work all days and shifts Duties Include: • Ensure that standards of cleanliness and organization are met at all times in the spa area. • Escort guests from reception; provide locker keys, towels, robes, water etc. and assist with guest needs as required. Starting salary $5.50 an hour not including service charge

BARTENDER

Requirements: • Must have 3 years experience as a bartender in branded luxury resort • Must have advanced knowledge of beverage preparation and service of alcoholic beverages with ability to mix, garnishes and present drinks using standard ingredient recipes. • Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties Include: • Maintain proper and adequate set-up of the bar on a daily basis and cleaning of bar area on closing. • Requisitioning and stocking of all beer, wine, spirits, paper products, etc. and produce based projections from the daily functions sheet. • Maintaining stock, cutting and storing of all fresh fruit and vegetable garnishes, juices and other perishables daily to insure product quality. • Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Starting wage $6.00 per hour not including service charge and tips

LABORER/GARDENER

Duties Include: • General laborer duties as assigned by the supervisor or manager. • Willingness to work varying schedules, split shifts, nights, weekends and holidays. Salary $5.25 an hour not including service charge

POOL AND BEACH ATTENDANT

Page 15

LOCAL NEWS

Requirements: • Must be able to work in all outdoor element, rain, sun, etc. as required • Must be able to work long hours on feet • Must be able to lift 30lbs or more • Must be trained and certified in CPR, First Aid. • Life guard experience is a plus • Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties Include: • Creating a luxury guest experience through delivery of high level service for all pool and beach services Starting salary $5.50 per hour not including service charge

ROOM ATTENDANT/PUBLIC AREA ATTENDANT/HOUSEMAN

Requirements: • Ability to work with heavy cleaning machinery. • Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties include: • Ensuring that standards of cleanliness and organization are met at all times in assigned areas. • Responsibility for care and maintenance of all equipment and machinery • Restock linens and amenities on carts • Run needed items to guest floors • Assist housekeepers as required Starting salary $5.25 not including service charge

FINANCIAL CONTROLLER

Requirements: • 10-12 years experience in financing/accounting in hospitality industry • At least 5 years management/supervisory experience at a property of similar size, Quality and business structure. • At least 3 years of international multi-unit property experience. • Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience • Advanced knowledge and skills in computer systems, most specifically, Excel Spreadsheet Solutions. • Complete understanding of Executive Committee level functions. • Demonstrated understanding of interdepartmental relations and expectations in the luxury hotel market. • Sound knowledge of both European and American Accounting Plans. • Previous and in depth experience, understanding and application of management contracts. • Thorough understanding of H.O.A. contracts and contractual management. • Solid training in all areas of Accounting from A/P, A/R, General Ledger, Credit, Collections, Audit, Inventory control, Payroll, Budgeting, Costing, P&L preparation and analysis, etc. • Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties Include: • Managing the day to day operations of the accounting department and overseeing the staff. • Assisting executive management, ownership and related associations with the production of financial reports, detailed analysis and business outlook. • Directing departments in the preparation and consolidation of financial budgets and projections. • Prepare, present and provide interpretation of operational reports as they impact the business finances. • Developing and maintaining chart of accounts and master lists. • Actively involved in yield management and revenue enhancement. • Coordinating internal and external audits. Starting salary commensurate with qualification and experience

SPA THERAPIST/TECHNICIAN

Requirements: • Diploma in massage therapy or equivalent. • Prior experience in a 5-star luxury environment. • Extensive knowledge of Eastern style massage, wraps, facials and other treatments. • Proficiency in English. • Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties Include: • Providing spa treatments to resort guests and day spa guests. • Maximize the revenue of the department through massage and retail product sales. • In addition to performance of the essential functions, this position may be "required to perform a combination of support functions Starting salary $5.50 per hour not including service charge, commission and tips

Interested applicants should apply to Regent Palms, Monday through Friday and bring along an updated resume or by emailing marjorie.dorsett@regenthotels.com no later than August 24, 2012.

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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

LOCAL NEWS

AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

Jean Taylor with attendees at the Art show

Local artist Jean Taylor attends art show in Florida Local artist Jean Taylor recently attended a successful art show at Ledbetter Galleries held in Oakland Park Florida. Taylor, who has had joint exhibitions in Curacao and Dominican Republic, said the recent show in Fort Lauderdale was her biggest show to date.

“My paintings were well received. It is the first time having an art show in the United States. I've met lots of art lovers, artists and businessmen/women. This experience has motivated me and I'm working towards my next show,” Taylor told The SUN. She added: “The US exposure

THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL INSURNACE BOARD EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

A vacancy exists at the Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board for a Compliance Officer at its Providenciales Branch Office, and applications are invited from suitably qualified and experienced Turks and Caicos Islanders to fill the post. CORE FUNCTIONS OF JOB - Assisting with the analysis of arrears reports - Assisting with the preparation of case files for prosecution of non compliant entities and individuals - Attending court to represent the Board’s interests when required - Assisting with the conducting of surveys to determine compliance levels - Recording and reporting daily findings - Serving non compliance notices and warning letters - Inspecting wage books to ensure accurate payments are being made - Assisting in investigations to ensure contributions are current - Inspecting incident books - Visiting non compliant contributors or those in arrears to encourage them to bring payments up to date - Assisting with the investigation of benefit claims, missing numbers and invalid dates of births EDUCATIONAL REQUIRMENTS This position requires an Associates Degree in Business or the equivalent. Experience should span: - Knowledge of the statutory regulations governing National Insurance - Knowledge of conducting investigations & Prosecutions - Knowledge of case file preparation - Bookkeeping or payroll OTHER REQUIREMENTS The applicant must have a valid driver’s license and be of good moral character evidenced by a current Police Record. Salary to be negotiated and will be determined based on qualifications and experience. Applications giving fill details of qualifications and experience should be sent to the Deputy Director Corporate Services, National Insurance Board, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands to reach no later than Friday 24th August, 2012.

means a lot to me. I have been painting for over 20 years, and one of my objectives is to have my paintings showcased all over the world. There is a market for art in the US and we in Turks and Caicos Islands enjoy the many tourists that visit here. This show will definitely help in marketing my name out there but also increase sales which will allow me to give back to the community which of course is another of my objectives.” Taylor said her experience was thrilling as she made presentations of her paintings which depicted some of our beautiful by nature scenery. Jean Taylor

Reliable Cleaning Services 2 FEMALE CLEANERS Is looking for

With experience who is willing to work under pressure & unsupervised. Belonger only need apply. Contact 241-4798

JOB OPPORTUNITY A clothing boutique has the following job opportunities:

Store Clerk/Supervisor

Full time position: Candidates must be High School Graduate with supervisory experience. Fluent in English, some French is an asset. Must possess good business acumen. Good knowledge of purchasing, merchandising, and sales. Working knowledge of QuickBooks Point of Sales, QuickBooks Accounting. Must be confident, self-motivated, and task orientated. Salary: negotiable.

Sales Clerk

Part time position: Requires High School Graduate, fluent in English, warm and friendly personality. Enjoy working with and meeting new people. Must be available to work Saturdays and some Sundays during the tourism seasons. Salary: $6.00 per hour. Please send Resumes by email only to: leteboutique@gmail.com

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

Page 17

AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

LOCAL NEWS

Provo has a new club

Members of the Midlife crisis Motorcycle Club with the Children of the Provo’s Children’s Home

The Mid Life Crisis Motorcycle Club was officially launched on the 2nd August. The club name is intended to be light-hearted and show that the members are quite able to laugh at themselves. That aside the club is open to anyone who loves biking but is also committed to giving something back to the community. As such the chosen mission is to raise funds, organise events and generally heighten awareness of Provo Children’s Home (PCH). The first event was held last Saturday when five club members, Eric, Luigi, Richard, Tony and Trevor together with their wives were able to meet with the staff as well as the children.

Jamaica increase passenger departure tax by US$20.00 Passengers traveling out of Jamaica are expected to pay a US$20.00 levy on their tickets. The Airline Passenger Levy of US$20 per passenger took effect on Wednesday, August 15th for tickets purchased on or after the 15th day of August, 2012 for passengers travelling out of Kingston, Jamaica. Only infants are exempt from this tax. As the national flag carrier of the Turks & Caicos Islands, Air Turks & Caicos would like to inform its customers that this increase is due to a ‘Revised Tax Measures For Jamaica’s Tourism Industry’ and not an increase in airfare by the carrier.

STAFF VACANCY –

SNR. HIGH VOLTAGE PLANT SUBSTATION ELECTRICIAN

Applications are invited from interested and suitably qualified individuals for the position of Snr. High Voltage Plant Substation Electrician, FortisTCI, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Description • Responsible to lead and participate in the layout, installation, modification, maintenance and repair of the company’s high voltage electrical distribution facilities. Under the direction of the Plant Production Manager, the High Voltage Plant Electrician will maintain and install high voltage equipment and electrical control systems both in the Plant and in the Substations in a sound technical manner, to ensure the reliable operation and functionality of the equipment, as per design specifications.

Main Duties • Lead and participate in the layout, construction, installation, modification, maintenance and repairs to FortisTCI facilities by interpreting blueprints, plans specifications, catalogue data, written and verbal instructions. • Plan, provide materials and schedule work for subordinate employees ensuring proper assignment, tooling and techniques in performance of duties. • Mentoring of the existing work force in conjunction with training provided by outside trainers in order to assemble a knowledgeable and motivated electrical plant workforce. • Maintain and install all rotating and stationary electrical equipment with particular emphasis on control systems. All such work will be performed with safety, efficiency and functionality of the FortisTCI system as the guiding factors. • Maintain and install all breakers and associated equipment at the plant and in Company Substations. • Assist the Plant Production Manager in preparing costs estimates and materials lists for various projects as assigned. • Assist the Plant Production Manager in the preparation of capital and maintenance budgets. • Assist fellow team members in acquiring relevant experience in the testing and trouble shooting of plant apparatus. • Be familiar with all Company policies and procedures (including those established by past practice) relating to the position and to observe and enforce same. • Plan and conduct work in a manner consistent with the Company’s commitment to the environment and ensure that subordinate employees are likewise in compliance.

Four motorcycles were used to take the children for a suitably sedate ride along Chalk Sound Road in proper protective gear and some members of staff also rode. All in all each motorcycle clocked up sixty miles and when the last ride was declared the children all wanted more! Drinks and nibbles were provided and the club is left wondering as to who enjoyed it most! There can be little more gratifying in life than a smile on a child’s face and laughter in their voice. Fund raising has already begun and the first cheques have been handed over to Tanis Wake Forbes, Chair of PCH, who also attended the event. The members of the club are determined to organise more events for the children to enjoy and not just based around motorcycling.

Have you visited our new website yet? GET BREAKING NEWS Weekly Polls Sports Weather Flight information Dining Guide

Access our epaper!

www.suntci.com

• Be familiar with safety and operating procedures of the Company and see that all in the Electrical Plant Department follow them. • Assist in the maintenance of statistical records required by the Company. • Be calm and competent in response to plant emergencies in a manner that inspires others to do likewise. • Operate Company vehicles as required and in adherence to Company policy and the driving regulations of the TCI authorities. • Be professional in dress and demeanor as befits an employee and ensure that a good public image of FortisTCI is maintained at all times. • Perform other duties as may be assigned and/or required by system contingencies from time to time. Daily Duties: • As indicated in weekly plan developed by Plant Production Manager • Submit job reports and failure analysis reports as may arise due to equipment abnormalities

Minimum Requirements • Successful completion of a 4-year high school programme • Successful completion of 2 years in a post-secondary education programme, preferably in the power generation and distribution field. • Minimum of 10 years working experience conducting corrective and preventative maintenance to transformers, circuit breakers and relays as a senior high voltage technician in substations in a generating plant environment • Minimum of 10 years working experience as a senior technical personnel conducting corrective and preventative maintenance in a generating plant environment • Familiarity with and competency in the use of computers and standard computing software programmes. • Above average analytical skills in math and electrical theories • Excellence in interpretation of engineering drawings and manuals • Professional competency in written and oral communication skills in English • Experience in working under utility emergency response conditions • Experience in high voltage installation, maintenance and repairs. • Ability to function effectively under emergency situations and think clearly and effectively deliver within deadlines. • Self-motivated, solution-oriented and positive outlook • Team player Compensation Grade: 13 (Range US$58,420.00-US$73,030.00 per annum (based on qualifications and ability) Deadline for submission of applications is August 29, 2012. Kindly submit applications stating qualifications and work experience to: Director, Human Resources FortisTCI Limited P. O. Box 132, Providenciales Email address: hrapplications@ppcltd.tc fax: 649-941-4304

Page 18

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

LOCAL NEWS

ELECTIONS 2012

AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

Schedule for hearing claims and objections The Supervisor of Elections Dudley L. Lewis in accordance with Section 16 (4) of the Elections Ordinance 2012 would like to inform Electors in the Turks and Caicos Islands that the hearing of Claims and Objections will take place in Electoral Districts 1 through 15 from August 20th to August 27th, 2012. Each of the following is entitled to appear and be heard: (a) on the hearing of a claim, the person making the claim and any person who has duly made an objection to it; (b) on the hearing of an objection, the objector and the person objected to; and (c) on the hearing of either, any other person who appears to the Supervisor to be interested The right to appear and be heard includes the right to make written representations. Any person entitled to appear and be heard may do so either in person or be any other person on his behalf. The places and times for hearing Claims and Objections are as follows: MONDAY AUGUST 20, 2012 GRAND TURK - ANGLICAN CHURCH DILLON HALL ED 1 West Road 8 am 12:30 pm ED 2 Over Back 8 am 12:30 pm ED 3 Back Salina South 2 pm 5:00 pm ED 4 Back Salina North 2 pm 5:00 pm TUESDAY AUGUST 21, 2012 SOUTH CAICOS -COMMUNITY CENTRE ED 5 South Caicos North 9 am ..2:00 pm ED 6 South Caicos South 9 am ..2:00 pm WEDNESDAY AUGUST 22, 2012 MIDDLE CAICOS - COMMUNITY CENTRE ED 7 Middle Caicos 9:30 am 11:00 am NORTH CAICOS - TEACHERS CENTRE BOTTLE CREEK ED 8 North Caicos East 12:30 pm - .2:00 pm KEW COMMUNITY CENTRE ED 9 North Caicos West 2:30 pm - .4:30 pm

THURSDAY AUGUST 23, 2012 PROVIDENCIALES GUSTAVOS LIGHTBOURNE SPORTS CENTRE ED 12 Five Cays 9:30 am - 12:30 pm 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm FRIDAY AUGUST 24, 2012 PROVIDENCIALES GUSTAVOS LIGHTBOURNE SPORTS CENTRE ED 13 Cheshire Hall 8:30 am - 12:30 pm ED 14 Richmond Hills 8:30 am - 12:30 pm ED 11 Blue Hills 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm ED 15 Long Bay 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm MONDAY AUGUST 27, 2012 PROVIDENCIALES -GUSTAVOS LIGHTBOURNE SPORTS CENTRE ED 10 The Bight 9:30 am - 12:30 pm THE LISTS OF CLAIMS AND OBJECTIONS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC SCRUTINY AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS: ELECTORAL DISTRICTS PLACE ED 1 West Road Grand Turk Dot’s Food Fare E & R Supermarket Taste of the Island restaurant Fulfords Gas Station ED 2 Over Back Grand Turk Durhams Home Centre Tom’s Wholesale Store Fishermans Paradise ED 3 North Back Salina Grand Turk Circle G Food Store Cee’s Food Centre Moor’s Cozy Corner Tom’s Mini Mart ED 4 South Back Salina Grand Turk Palm Grove Variety Store DNS Store Do-It Centre Fire and Ice Bar ED 5 South Caicos North Airport Terminal District Commissioner’s Office

Sea View Marina ED 6 South Caicos South Super Value Supermarket G & H Enterprise ED 7 Middle Caicos District Commissioner’s Office Community Centre - Bambara Community Centre - Lorimers ED 8 North Caicos East District Commissioner’s Office Airport terminal Kevin’s Enterprise Digicel Store ED 9 North Caicos West Community Centre - Kew Community Centre - Whitby Community Centre - Sandy Point ED 10 The Bight Kathleen’s 7 – 11 Store Miniature Golf Course R&E Garland Retail Store PTV General Office ED 11 Blue Hills Keyse’s Variety Store Williams Store Three Queen’s Club Lulu Variety Store Ronnie’s Plaza Island Café restaurant ED 12 Five Cays Texaco Station Liz Bakery Pal’s Electronics Store IBO Store ED 13 Cheshire Hall Post Office Grant’s Gas Station Mackey’s Mechanic Shop Gilley’s Restaurant Lamont restaurant The Library ED 14 Richmond Hills Chinson’s restaurant Provo Discount Pharmacy Texaco Station Discount Liquors ED 15 Long Bay Hills Grant’s Gas Station Texaco Station KK & T Auto rental Signed: Dudley L. Lewis, CPM Supervisor of Elections

Museum breaks ground for first exhibit on Provo The first exhibit of the National Museum on Providenciales will be the recreation of a typical 1800’s Caicos dwelling on property adjacent to the future site of the museum in Grace Bay Village. “The Caicos Heritage Project has been meticulously researched through research, site visits to North and Middle Caicos, and interviews with Belongers,’’ said project architect Jeff Lee of JAL Consultants Ltd. “The exhibit will be an accurate

recreation of a typical Caicos family home that would have existed during the 1800’s, the style of which carried well into the 20th century.” “The project will be completed in the style and context of the Caicos Islands and will include not only an authentic outdoor cooking area, a typical outhouse and traditional furnishings.” The museum’s board of directors said the exhibit has been made possible through an anonymous donation of $100.000.

The plans for the exhibit have been approved by the Physical Planning Board and construction has commenced. The Turks and Caicos National Museum is an organization that is privately operated, funded and managed. Its museum building on Grand Turk has been in operation for more than 20 years. It will continue its role, supported by the new museum on Providenciales. The new museum on Grace Bay

will open up the world of TCI history and culture to Turks and Caicos islanders, residents, visitors and students. It also will provide much needed space to display exhibits that have been in storage for lack of exhibit space in Grand Turk. The Directors expect the Turks and Caicos National Museum on Providenciales to not only support itself, but ultimately support the Grand Turk museum financially and operationally. The new Museum on Grace Bay is in final architectural planning stages, Mr. Lee said. It will feature a glass front entry foyer, a 10,000 square foot museum exhibit and display space, mezzanine offices, a museum retail shop and a museum curatorial workshop.

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LOCAL NEWS

Courtney Robinson joins Air Turks & Caicos as Sales and Marketing Executive Courtney Robinson, former director of the Turks & Caicos Islands Government Information Service (TCI GIS), was named sales and marketing executive for Air Turks & Caicos. The position is a new leadership position for the country’s flag carrier. Robinson’s responsibilities will include overseeing the company’s advertising, branding and messaging programs both internally and externally. “Our expansion demands someone who can focus on the specific needs of relating to the public and business community”, said Deborah Aharon, vice president of business development. “We were determined that this newly-created manager position be filled by a Turks and Caicos Islander and are delighted that Courtney, with all his skills and experience, was willing to take it on.” Born and raised in the nation’s capital of Grand Turk, Robinson is a

Courtney Robinson

graduate of the London School of Economics and Political Science with a Master of Science degree in media and communications regulation and policy. He also earned a First Class

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Veranda is currently seeking qualified candidates that have the requirements listed along with an outgoing professional manner. Our ideal candidates must love to work with different types of people, meet challenges with a positive attitude and live the standards of our organization.

CHEF DE CUISINE

Chef de Cuisine organizes and leads culinary staff for high-volume, fine dining restaurant. Responsible for food production, buffets, brunch, In Room Dining and a la carte menus. Responsible for ordering food supplies, maintaining overall cleanliness of kitchen and scheduling staff. Ensures adherence to standards for quality, sanitation and consistency. Must have working knowledge of restaurant financials and relevant computer applications. Responsible for staffing, scheduling and motivating culinary team of up to 25. Works closely with FOH management to evolve menus and product presentation to meet changing preferences of our guests. The ideal candidate with have extensive administrative/organizational experience balanced with a strong culinary background. Full-time. Days and hours vary, weekend and holiday work required. Salary depends on experience. Job Requirements Associate’s Degree (AAS) in Culinary Arts required. A minimum of eight (8) years’ experience in the culinary industry in a 5 Star Property is required; at least five (5) of which must have been as a Sous Chef or greater supervising a minimum of ten(10) employees. A culinary background inclusive of hotel/resort experience is preferred but not required. CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS: CPR/First Aid required; HASAP & SERVSAFE within the 1st year.

MASSAGE THERAPIST/AESTHETICIAN

The Massage Therapist administers professional massage and body treatments to our guests.They must have a thorough knowledge of numerous massage modalities and possess a general understanding of body treatments. They must possess excellent communication

honors’ degree in public relations from the University of Westminster in London. The focus of Robinson’s career spans more than 12 years across various sectors, with international experience in the Turks and Caicos Islands and in New York. He has been responsible for creating and managing various high profile events for a number of government agencies, corporations, nonprofits and charitable organizations as the managing director at Royele Communications Ltd, director of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government Information Service (TCI GIS) and public relations officer with Diva & Adonis Model Management (NYC). Robinson has organized projects and events for companies including The Grace Bay Club, The Somerset Resort and The Gansevoort Resort along with nonprofits such as the Turks & Caicos Islands Football Association, The Salvation Army's skills and be able to learn the product and service knowledge necessary to effectively provide wellness solutions to meet the needs of our guests.

Job Requirements: • Successful candidate will have completed a certified massage therapy and aesthetic program and have a minimum of 5 years experience in a 5 star operation. • Maintain a professional and clean appearance at all times • Properly care for equipment and use proper amounts of product to assist with cost controls. • Uphold the standards of sanitation and sterilization as directed by law and the spa’s policies and procedures. • Perform prep work, properly clean and restock room as required. • Regularly attend, participate in and support training and staff meetings for the spa. • Assist in all areas of spa operation as requested by supervisors or coaches. • Actively promote the spa, treatments, services and retail, as well as programs, promotions and/or discounts available • Must be able and willing to work long hours, weekends and public holidays

PERSONAL CONCIERGE

Ensures that guests have a wonderful vacation experience in regards to atmosphere, service, quality and delivery by personally providing outstanding service levels, coordinating service with other resort departments and adhering to the resort standards. Tracks guest preferences, follows up on guest requests and coordinates with other areas/services to ensure requests, products and amenities are handled flawlessly. Educates guests on the variety of services provided by Concierge and other team members. Treats guests with friendly professionalism and anticipates their needs in creative ways.

Job Requirements • Must maintain a professional appearance and manner at all times • Must be able to interact with internal and external guests maintaining a high level of professionalism • Must be able to discern situations that may require high levels of patience, tact, and diplomacy in an effort to diffuse anger and/or collect accurate information to resolve challenges.

Red Kettle Drive, TCI Red Cross Red & White Party, The National Kidney Foundation fundraising drive and the 2008 post-hurricane Ike and Hanna children’s Christmas parties. Robinson has provided high visibility public relations and marketing initiatives for Le Reve Gala Ball’s Bollywood Dreams and Diamonds are Forever charitable events. He was also the founder and executive producer for the successful TCI Top Model Contest & Fashion Extravaganza, a prestigious and recognizable local event. Robinson also has direct experience in the aviation industry as well, having served as an assistant air traffic controller and aeronautical information officer with the Department of Civil Aviation. Robinson will be based in the InterIsland Aviation Services headquarters, which are located adjacent to the main airport in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos.

• Must be knowledgeable of local attractions and entertainment, able to give clear, accurate directions. • A high School Diploma with previous customer service or front office experience in a luxury resort • Good oral and written communications skills

PUBLIC AREAS SUPERVISOR

Responsible for all public areas, including lobby, restaurants, lounges, executive offices, public washrooms, corridors, heart of the house corridors, locker rooms, staircases etc. Supervises the work of all public area attendants to ensure that the front and back of house are well maintained at all times. Job Requirements • Able to work flexible hours, weekend and holidays • Full Computer skills • Minimum 3 years of supervisor level experience in a Hotel /Resort • Great communication skills • Strong leadership skills • Knowledge of schedule making and staffing • Familiar with Five Star standards of presentation • Customer Service oriented • Preparation of Inventory supplies and linen • Full knowledge on flooring chemicals • Full knowledge of flooring equipment

SERVERS

Responsible for serving food and beverage items in accordance with resort standards while providing exceptional customer service. Job Requirements • Set tables according to resort standards, • Provide a warm welcome to all patrons, and seat guests to maximize efficiency; • Complete all assigned side duties and keep all storage areas clean and organized. • Team oriented • Have good oral communications skills • Flexible to work 7 days a week – and all shifts • Ability to work under pressure during busy periods Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience Interested persons may contact our Human Resource Manager No later than August 29, 2012 Email: deleria.simms@verandatci.com Or hand deliver to our office at Veranda Resort and Residences Princess Dr. Lower Bight, Providenciales

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LOCAL NEWS

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

The National Insurance Board wishes to urgently remind the public that all persons who were registered as dependents under the National Health Insurance Plan prior to March 1st, 2012 are required to be re re--registered in light of the recent amendments to the National Health Insurance (Contributions) Regulations, 2009. Failure to re re--register a dependent will result in the termination of medical coverage of that dependent. Persons are advised to verify the eligibility of their dependents by texting their NHIP number to telephone no. 232 - NHIP (6447) . Application forms may be obtained from the following National Health Insurance Board Office locations : Salt Mills Plaza, Providenciales Kisa Services, South Caicos Cockburn Town Medical Centre, Grand Turk My Deeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Western Union, North Caicos

Or online at www.tcinhip.tc, and submitted with the necessary documentation to the relevant Office location as soon as possible.

The National Health Insurance Board also wishes to advise those persons who may have started but not completed the process of re re--registering their dependents to contact the respective office of the National Health Insurance Board as soon as possible.

Your co co--operation is greatly appreciated.

Management of the National Health Insurance Board

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Rihanna cries over Chris Brown during Oprah Winfrey interview: ‘I just felt like he made that mistake because he needed help’ Although the singer was left cut and severely bruised following the attack, Rihanna says she was more scared for Brown than she was for herself. More shocking details have been released about Rihanna’s frame of mind following the 2009 incident when she was assaulted by her then boyfriend Chris Brown. The 24-year-old appears in an upcoming televised interview with Oprah Winfrey, where she opens up and gets very emotional about her relationship with the singer. And fans may be shocked at what they hear. During the interview taped for “Oprah’s Next Chapter,” Rihanna expressed concern for Brown, 23, and

Pop star, Rihanna

told Winfrey she believed the vicious attack was a cry for help from her ex.

Chris Brown, Drake sued over NYC nightclub brawl NEW YORK - Chris Brown and Drake were sued Wednesday over a bottle-throwing nightclub brawl involving their entourages, as a company with ties to the club sought to hold the music stars responsible for the melee. Brown's representatives had no immediate comment about the $16 million lawsuit, and Drake's representatives didn't immediately respond to a request for comment. The suit faulted the artists for — at a minimum — doing nothing to stop the June 14 melee and said it sullied the chic Manhattan nightspot's name. Brown and Drake should bear blame for a glass-flinging, brokenbottle-swinging free-for-all in a crowded club "in circumvention of the venue's extensive security measures," says the lawsuit, filed by Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. The company owns the trademark for Greenhouse; the owners of the club itself aren't involved in the lawsuit and declined to comment. No criminal charges have been filed in the fight, which left Brown, NBA star Tony Parker and others injured. Police say the fracas started after members of Drake's entourage confronted Brown on the dance floor as he was leaving the club's basement lounge, called W.i.P. Drake's representatives have said he was on his way out and didn't injure anyone. The lawsuit, however, points to news accounts of bad blood between Brown and Drake, both of whom have dated singer Rihanna. Entertainment Enterprises believes the two men instigated, encouraged, or at least failed to stop the fight, lawyer Andrew T. Miltenberg said. "It's their posse, and they're in charge, and to the extent that they could have controlled or dissipated whatever was going on, we don't believe they did," he said. Because of publicity about the fight, a $4 million deal to license Greenhouse's name for other clubs around the country fell through, the lawsuit says. Entertainment Enterprises is headed by a former Greenhouse owner, Jon Bakhshi. The current owners face suits over the fracas, including a $20 million claim from Parker.

“It became a circus and I felt protective. I felt like the only person they hate right now is him,” she tells the host in a preview for the episode. “It was a weird, confusing space to be in because as angry as I was, as angry and hurt and betrayed, I just felt like he made that mistake because he needed help.” Although the singer was left cut and severely bruised following the Rihanna says she was more scared for Brown than she was for herself. “Who’s gonna help him? Nobody’s gonna say he needs help,” she says. “Everybody’s gonna say he’s a monster without looking at the source. I was more concerned about him.”

In a previously released clip, the singer discussed the immediate aftermath of the domestic violence incident and what was going through her mind at the time. “I lost my best friend. Like, everything I knew switched—switched overnight,” she said. “And I couldn’t control that, so I had to deal with that, and that’s not easy for me to understand or interpret. And it’s not easy to interpret on camera. Not with the world watching.” Brown assaulted Rihanna the night before the 2009 Grammy Awards and was later sentenced to year’s probation, one year of domestic violence counseling and community service.

Elvis Presley celebrated on 35th anniversary of his death Thirty-five years after his death, Elvis still lives. Elvis Presley fans can check in on the candlelight vigil going on in Memphis, Tenn., to mark the anniversary of the singer’s death on Presley’s official website, www.elvis.com. According to the site, more than 75,000 people have turned out for the vigil at his Graceland mansion to mark his death on Aug. 16, 1977. His daughter, Lisa Marie, and his exwife, Priscilla, will host a 35th anniversary

concert at the city's FedEx Forum tonight starting at 8:10 p.m. Pacific time. The event will blend film footage of Elvis Presley in concert and his recorded vocals backed by live music by the Memphis Symphony as well as many of the musicians who backed him on tour, including guitarist James Burton, pianist Glen D. Hardin, drummer D.J. Fontana and the Sweet Inspirations vocal group.

Michael Jackson's dad drops wrongful death lawsuit LOS ANGELES- Michael Jackson's father has dropped awrongful death lawsuit filed against the former doctor who was convicted of causing the singer's death. Court records show Joe Jackson's request for a dismissal was granted Monday. The filings do not elaborate on a reason for dropping pursuit of the case, but two attorneys handling the case were recently ruled ineligible to practice law in California. The Jackson family patriarch initially filed the lawsuit against Conrad Murray in June 2010, on the anniversary of his son's death. A federal judge refused to hear it and it had to be re-filed in state court in Los Angeles. Conrad Murray "It's good finally that this case is dismissed and gone," Murray's attorney Charles Peckham said Wednesday. "It's pretty clear that Joe Jackson intelligently and smartly dismissed this case so he, his wife and children can focus on Michael Jackson's life instead of the circumstances of his death." Joe Jackson's case claimed Murray repeatedly lied to paramedics and doctors about giving Jackson propofol and that he did not keep adequate medical records — all issues that prosecutors raised against Murray during his trial last year. He had been seeking damages for a variety of issues, including loss of income and support, emotional distress, and pain and suffering.

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HIGHLIGHTS

• Survey says one in four Caribbean men bisexual • Jamaica Western Union sets limit in western parish

British legislator backs Caribbean region’s stand on APD tax BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – A British legislator has voiced support for the position of the Caribbean over London’s decision to increase a controversial Air Passenger Duty (APD) tax even as the region said it would continue to advocate for the removal of the measure. “I understand the UK government’s position. I recognise that with the deficit we have to raise revenues as do many other countries and taxation is a key part of that. But, having said that, the APD as it currently stands is not a level playing field and it should be reviewed in a way that alters it,” Mark Pritchard, who is visiting Barbados for a first hand view of the effect the APD is having on the local industry. “Also, with the potential to increase in November there is a short window of opportunity with those that share my view to remind the Treasury

Mark Pritchard

of their own admittance of the impact of the APD on the Caribbean. I will continue to do what I can also with other colleagues that have the similar view to lobby for APD to be changed,”

he told reporters. The British Member of Parliament for The Wrekin, said “it is important to do all we can to get the UK government to recognise that whilst revenues do need to be increased, whilst we need to do as much as we can for the environment, there needs to be a holistic approach of the impact on APD on the Caribbean. “This is a commitment now made by someone who has now visited this part of the world and understands the plight even more indepth,” he added. Barbados’ Tourism Minister Richard Sealy told reporters that the manner with which the Caribbean has been treated in terms of the APD tax “is unfair and we will ardently continue to push for a fair system”. Regional countries have argued that as a result of the APD, a family of four flying from the United Kingdom to the Caribbean now have to pay close

Low pay for many work permit holders in Cayman Islands About 46 per cent of all foreign workers that held jobs within the Cayman Islands as of 30 June, occupied lower paid, lower skilled positions, according to data released by the Immigration Department. According to the Caymanian Compass newspaper, Immigration records indicate that more than 9,300 work permit holders – of the 20,240 who were in the Cayman Islands as of 30 June – occupied either “elementary occupations” or “service worker” jobs. Those areas, which are typically on the lower end of the pay scale, include jobs such as barbers, bartenders, cashiers, cook, hairdressers, waiters, janitors, security guards, domestics and caregivers, beach attendants and general labourers. The next largest group of work permit holders – about 4,500 people or 22 per cent of all work permit holders in the Islands as of 30 June – occupied the skilled tradesmen and crafts employee group. These are vehicle mechanics, electricians, carpenters, painters, plumbers, technicians and associate professionals. Another 4,100 work permit holders – about 20 per cent – held professional and managerial positions such as fund administrators, doctors, lawyers, teachers, human resources managers, sales and relationship managers, general managers and financial controllers. Immigration figures also reveal that it is for the trades professionals and the lower paid groups of work permit holders that the majority of temporary work permits or TLEPs have been issued since last October. A total of 1,049 temporary permit applications made between 28 October, 2011, and 30 June, 2012, have so far been approved;

that’s about 90 per cent of all the applications that were made. The permits only allow work permit holders who have reached their normal seven-year term limit on residency to stay up to an extra two years in the Islands. It does not allow those permit holders to apply for the right to remain in the Cayman Islands. Skilled craftsmen have accounted for 448 of the temporary permits issued. Elementary occupations and service workers have made up another 367 temporary permits. It appears to be mainly the last two categories that government has cited in previous proposals to implement a 5 per cent fee payable by companies on “certain categories of employment”. There are far fewer non-Caymanian workers remaining in the Islands while working as an operation of the law, according to Immigration Department figures. Working as an operation of the law is defined as individuals working after their term limit on residency has expired while awaiting the outcome of a permanent residence application, or individuals awaiting appeals decisions on denials of work permits. The term can also apply to work permit renewals if those renewal periods extend beyond the scheduled end of a permit. In 2007, there were nearly 3,600 people in the Cayman Islands working as an operation of law; mainly due to the large number of individuals seeking permanent residence in the wake of the immigration term-limit or “rollover” policy being enacted. As of 30 June this year, that number had dropped to 793; the lowest it had been during the last five years.

to £400 (US$625.08) in taxes. In 2005, such a family would have paid a total of £80 (US$125.06) in taxes. In February, the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) released statistics from 23 countries that showed the region experienced a decline from the United Kingdom for a third consecutive year with officials attributing the drop to a weak British economy and increases in the APD. “The lobbying has helped in delaying some of the increases and also our voice is heard in many different areas of influence. We are aware that we will not get the APD abolished and we understand the need for taxation, but we want a fair way for it to be applied. “It is important that we continue to keep the fight. If the APD does increase again in November, this will be a challenge for the Barbados tourism industry,” Sealy said

Survey says one in four Caribbean men bisexual St. John’s, Antigua–Almost one in four Caribbean men today describe themselves as bisexual, a new study suggests. The preliminary findings of the regionwide Caribbean Men’s Internet Survey (CARIMIS) are in stark contrast to the Caribbean’s traditional image of a macho society with sparse tolerance for homosexuality. “We have a fair population in the Caribbean that identify as bisexual. Across the entire sample … about 20 to 23 per cent say they are bisexual,” facilitator of the CARIMIS project and director of UNAIDS, Caribbean Regional Support Team, Ernest Massiah said. The CARIMIS study is being touted as the “largest sample” of the Caribbean MSM (men who have sex with men) population of its kind, done via Internet—surveying 2,560 men throughout 33 territories in the region. Massiah also revealed that 15 per cent of the men did not define themselves in any category. Although they engaged in sexual activity with other men, they “do not want a label”, he said. According to the director, the most “shocking” aspect of the study involves the amount of physical and verbal abuse and visual intimidation levied against MSMs in their respective countries. “What we are seeing across the region is that between five and 10 per cent of people have been assaulted because they were perceived to have a different sexual orientation,” Massiah said. The study’s results will be given to governments of participating nations to help develop policies and initiatives that will protect and service the MSM community. The MSM population is defined by the survey not only as openly gay men but also men who do not self-identify as gay or bisexual but participate in sexual activities with other men. The survey is being implemented throughout the English, French, Spanish and Dutch speaking Caribbean countries.

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CARIBBEAN NEWS

New York providing funds to aid undocumented Caribbean immigrants NEW YORK – The United States began accepting applications from young illegal Caribbean and other immigrants for temporary reprieve from deportation and New York State officials say they are providing US$450,000 in grants to groups that can help assist those immigrants. In June, President Barack Obama announced the initiative, which grants two-year deportation deferrals and work permits to illegal Caribbean and other immigrants brought here as children. “It is critical that we get information out to our immigrant communities so that people will know who is eligible for deferred action and so that they can avoid being scammed,” said New York State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver.

Silver said the grants would support clinics, workshops and legal services across the state, where an estimated 80,000 immigrants between the ages of 15 and 30 could currently benefit. The Assembly Speaker said that the grants have also gone to the Legal Services NYC and to a new state task force run by the New York Immigration Coalition and the New York State Immigrant Action Fund. Officials at the US Citizenship and immigration Services, the federal agency in charge of the initiative, said they anticipate a massive load of paperwork in the shortest amount of time for a new programme since 1986, when more than three million immigrants who were in the country illegally became legal residents under

Former NBA AllStar drowns trying to save wife in Aruba ORANJESTAD, Aruba – An NBA veteran who had three consecutive All-Star seasons has drowned off Aruba while trying to help his wife as she struggled in rough water. Dan Roundfield, who played 11 professional seasons with Indiana, Atlanta, Detroit and Washington, had been swimming with his wife Bernie off the southeastern tip of the island when they got into difficulty in rough sea beyond a protected reef area, according to an Aruba police spokesman. The 59-year-old was said to have been swept away in a strong Dan Roundfield former NBA All-Star. current as he tried to save his wife. Police, firefighters, the Coast Guard and volunteers searched the area, finding his body trapped by rocks underwater about 90 minutes later. Roundfield’s widow, who was helped to safety by an American tourist snorkelling nearby, said that the Atlanta-based couple was visiting Aruba with their two grandchildren. According to Mrs Roundfield, the couple had visited the southern Caribbean island nearly 20 times and were caught off guard by the strong currents at the area known as "Baby Beach" where they had swum many times in the past “because it’s so safe”. Mrs Roundfield was treated for shock after the tragedy and the government provided a social worker to assist her and other family members while they remained in Aruba. She said that her late husband would be remembered as a family man. "People knew he was a great husband, a great dad, a great grandfather," Bernie Roundfield said. "They knew he would help his friends or any other person who needed help." A 6-foot-8 forward-center out of Detroit, Roundfield played for Central Michigan in college and started his pro career with Indiana, which was then in the ABA. He played 11 professional seasons. Besides the Pacers, he had stints with Atlanta, Detroit and Washington and averaged 15.2 point per game for his NBA career. Roundfield was selected as an All-Star in 1980, 1981 and 1982, when he was playing for the Hawks.

an amnesty programme. Officials said eligible young illegal immigrants can obtain valid social security numbers, and apply for driver’s licenses, professional certificates and financial aid for college. The Washington-based Migration Institute, a nonpartisan research group, said about 1.2 million immigrants are eligible to apply now for the programme. It said another 500,000 children will be able to apply when they reach the minimum eligibility age of 15 in coming years. US officials said to be eligible for the reprieve, illegal immigrants must be in the country and under the age of 31 on June 15. They must also have come to the

US before they were 16 years and resided here continuously for at least five years. In addition, officials said the illegal immigrants must be in school, or have graduated from high school or honorably discharged from the US Armed Forces. Officials said immigrants convicted of a felony, a serious misdemeanour (including a sexual abuse or drug violation), or three less serious misdemeanours will be rejected. Anyone deemed to pose a threat to US national security will also not be granted the reprieve, they said. Officials said immigrants will not be allowed to appeal if their application is rejected, but they may re-apply and pay the US$465 fee again.

FNM chairman dies while campaigning NASSAU, The Bahamas – The chairman of the main opposition Free National Movement (FNM) Charles Maynard has died of an apparent heart attack while campaigning for a candidate in the upcoming by-election. A statement from the FNM said that Maynard, 42, died early Tuesday and that he and the party’s secretary general Michael Foulkes had been in North Abaco to help a candidate from their party in the by-election to fill the vacancy left open by the resignation of former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham. “The passing of the national chairman Charles Maynard is a tremendous loss of a rising political statesman and public servant, not only to the Free National Movement, but also to our beloved country,” the FNM said. Maynard was the former minister of youth, sports and culture and in an immediate reaction, the Bahamas National Youth Council (BYNC) expressed its “deepest sympathy” recalling that as a minister Maynard “was indeed a great supporter and believer in the BNYC. “He has sought to continuously meet with the executives to garner fresh ideas for youth development which assisted in the mobilization of his ministry. He always believed that there should be a close working relationship with BNYC and the Ministry of Youth, which fostered further positive progression of our nation’s youth. “Furthermore, Mr. Maynard was a young leader in the former government, a man who enjoyed Bahamian Culture and believed in the development of all young Bahamians,” the BYNC said, adding “words cannot express the sadness that our organization feels at this moment, the prayers of organizations are with Mrs. Maynard, his children and family at this time”. Maynard is survived by his wife and three children.

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CARIBBEAN NEWS

Jamaica Western Union sets limit in western parish KINGSTON, Jamaica – Western Union International on Thursday reopened three of its branches in the western parish of St James, one week after it closed all branches to conduct a “systems review” to counter the multi-million dollar lottery scam. GraceKennedy Money Services (GKMS), which holds the Western Union franchise for the Caribbean has now set a limit of US$400 on transfers. In a statement issued through

GKMS, Company spokesperson, Daniel Diaz said Jamaica is an important market to Western Union . “The company will strive to reopen additional locations in the impacted region,” the statement said. Additionally, the company said it has implemented several measures to aid in reducing the inconvenience faced by its customers with free shuttle services between St James and neighbouring parishes.

“As a leader in global payment services, Western Union is dedicated to providing consumers fast, reliable and convenient money transfer services around the world. Our reputation, our brand, and the trust of our stakeholders are irreplaceable assets,” the company said. Jamaica has been placed in the international spotlight after criminals utilise the service to lure United States citizens to send money. Thousands of

Puerto Rican woman and Jamaican boyfriend file US$3 million race bias lawsuit NEW YORK – A Puerto Rican woman along with her Jamaican boyfriend and a former co-worker has filed a US$3 million discriminatory lawsuit against their ex-boss at an upscale perfume store, claiming that she used racial epithets against blacks and other minorities. According to the lawsuit, filed in federal district court in Manhattan, Puerto Rican Veronica Robledo and Karin Widmann, said they are seeking damages, accusing the store’s owner, Laurice Rahme, of violating their civil rights and for firing them after they objected to her “pattern of racism against customers and employees.” The boyfriend’s name was not disclosed . The former employees of the Bond No. 9 perfume shop accused Rahme of being a racist, stating that she reportedlycalled Blacks “thieves” and used a code phrase to alert security personnel when dark-skinned customers entered the store. “We need the light bulbs changed,” was the signal for an unwelcome customer, the lawsuit claims. Robledo, 41, who lives in the Bronx and worked for Rahme for nine years, also claims her ex-boss would not let her serve white customers because “my skin is dark.”

“I was very offended,” she told reporters here. “The last eight months were torture. I was afraid to speak to a black customer. ” Robledo said she even had to keep quiet about her Black Jamaican boyfriend and “tell him to hide when he came to pick me up so (Rahme) wouldn’t see him.” Robledo said the last straw was when Rahme accused her in February of knowing a black customer who was caught shoplifting in another store. She said Rahme fired her and Widmann when they finally mustered the courage to complain about the alleged racist remarks in February. Robledo also stated Rahme then accused them of stealing US$25,000 worth of stock, which they denied. However in response, Rahme said she is not racist, blaming the suit on “disgruntled employees” who got caught allegedly stealing. She said most of her workers are from minority groups, adding that she welcomes Black customers. Rahme, however, admitted that she uses the “light bulbs” code but only “to protect the girls” when someone suspicious enters the stores. She also admitted that, each time her store was robbed, “they were all African-American robbers.”

US hands Bermuda cheque from confiscated assets HAMILTON, Bermuda – Authorities in the United States have handed over a cheque amounting to more than US$670,000 to the government of Bermuda as its share of confiscated assets from a US drug dealer and money launderer. The assets were forfeited to US authorities from a US$110 million illegal internet pharmacy operation based in the United States. The operation laundered its proceeds abroad, including through a bank account in Bermuda. In 2009, the operation’s leader, Jude LaCour, was indicted, prosecuted and then sentenced to 97 months in US federal prison for drug trafficking and money laundering. A US District judge also ordered the forfeiture of assets, including those held by LaCour in Bermuda. On Wednesday , US Consul General, Grace Shelton, accompanied by investigators from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)presented the cheque to Premier Paula Cox . The Premier said the money would be used to fund law enforcement, financial intelligence work as well as drug rehabilitation programmes and drug prevention efforts in Bermuda, which is struggling to get out of a recession. “This represents collaboration — we have legislation, we have treaties which speak to sharing of information. We are certainly a robust regime and this evidences that it works” said Cox. The Consul General lauded the Bermudian authorities who provided important law enforcement assistance in recovering the money by restraining funds in a bank account in Bermuda under the control of LaCour . This was a very long, complex case on which the United States and Bermuda worked together co-operatively, as we often do, to see that justice was done” she said.

AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

people have fallen prey to the illegal scam. Law enforcement authorities have linked more than 600 murders to lottery scamming over the past five years. The recent closure of Western Union outlets in St James had resulted in customers travelling to locations in the neighbouring parishes of Trelawny and Hanover to receive their remittances. Police Commissioner Owen Ellington and former president of the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ), Joseph M. Matalon, have blamed the illegal lottery scam for not only tarnishing Jamaica’s image, but threatening the fledging call centre industry which was being undermined by the perpetrators

Female passenger sues Royal Caribbean for alleged attack on Caribbean cruise MIAMI – A South Florida passenger on a New Year’s cruise to the Eastern Caribbean has filed a US federal lawsuit against Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, claiming that a crewman sexually assaulted her. The suit, filed in a federal district court here on Wednesday, alleges that the woman, identified only as S.M., was attacked on January 1 on the Navigator of the Seas during an Eastern Caribbean cruise. In court papers, the passenger said on the morning of the alleged attack, she had gone to an upper-level deck to use a whirlpool. She said she asked a crew member for a towel, and he led her into a bathroom, where he allegedly assaulted her. Miami attorney Michael Feiler, who is representing the alleged victim, said ship surveillance video captured the woman following the crewmember into the bathroom — and her trying to escape, only to be dragged back in to the room. Feiler said his client slipped away and reported the attack to ship security. He believes the ship’s security officers took the man into custody and kicked him off the ship at the next overseas port. “This is a problem in the cruise industry; and, if the company cared, it wouldn’t just turn this guy loose in the nearest port, you need to cooperate with the victim and assist in bringing him to the proper authorities,” Feiler said. A Royal Caribbean spokesman said the ship’s security responded and preserved information and potential evidence that could be helpful to law enforcement, including the closed circuit television camera footage. “The alleged incident was immediately reported to the FBI and local law enforcement in St. Kitts,” he said. “Royal Caribbean maintains strict policies governing employee interaction with guests. Due to the violation of this policy, the crew member in question is no longer employed by Royal Caribbean” the spokesman added.

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HIGHLIGHTS

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• Ann Romney ﬁercely defends decision to withhold tax returns

• UN monitors quit, saying Syrians choose "path of war"

Russian female punk band Pussy Riot found guilty of hooliganism over Putin protest at church site MOSCOW - A Russian judge found three members of the provocative punk band Pussy Riot guilty of hooliganism on Friday, in one of the most closely watched cases in recent Russian history. The judge said the three band members committed hooliganism driven by religious hatred and offending religious believers. The three were arrested in March after a guerrilla performance in Moscow's main cathedral in February calling for the Virgin Mary to protect Russia against Vladimir Putin, who was elected to a new term as Russia's president a few days later. They face a maximum seven years in prison. The sentence is to be handed down later Friday. When they called the band Pussy Riot and began performing in-yourface protest-punk, they knew they'd draw some attention, CBS News correspondent Charlie D'Agata reports. That was the point. But when they chose Moscow's main cathedral -- the most sacred site in the Russian Orthodox Church -- to bang out a flash protest song against Putin, Russian authorities decided it was time for a crackdown.

Russian dissident punk group Pussy Riot are set to spend six more months in jail.

"We accept our ethical misdemeanor, but an ethical misdemeanor should not be a cause of criminal punishment," band member Nadezhda Tolokonnikova said through a translator before the verdict. The case has attracted international attention as an emblem of Russia's intolerance of dissent. It also underlines the vast influence of the church. Although church and state are formally separate, the church identifies itself as the heart of Russian national

Mine bloodbath shocks post-apartheid South Africa The police killing of 34 striking platinum miners in the bloodiest security operation since the end of white rule cut to the quick of South Africa's psyche on Friday, with searching questions asked of its post-apartheid soul. Newspaper headlines screamed "Bloodbath", "Killing Field" and "Mine Slaughter", with graphic photographs of heavily armed white and black police officers walking casually past the bloodied corpses of black men lying crumpled in the dust. The images, along with Reuters television footage of a phalanx of officers opening up with automatic weapons on a small group of men in blankets and tshirts, rekindled uncomfortable memories of South Africa's racist past. Police chief Riah Phiyega confirmed 34 dead and 78 injured after officers moved in against 3,000 striking drill operators armed with machetes and sticks and massed on a rocky outcrop at the mine, 100 km (60 miles) northwest of Johannesburg. Phiyega, a former banking executive who was only appointed to lead the police force in June, said officers had acted in self-defense against charging, armed assailants at Lonmin's Marikana platinum plant. "The police members had to employ force to protect themselves from the charging group," she told a news conference, noting that two policemen had been hacked to death by a mob at the mine on Tuesday. However, the South African Institute of Race relations likened the incident to the 1960 Sharpeville township massacre near Johannesburg, when apartheid police opened fire on a crowd of black protesters, killing more than 50. "Obviously the issues that have led to this are not the same as the past, but the response and the outcome is very similar," research manager Lucy Holborn told Reuters. In a front page editorial, the Sowetan newspaper questioned what had changed since 1994, when Nelson Mandela overturned three centuries of white domination to become South Africa's first black president.

identity and critics say its strength effectively makes it a quasi-state entity. D'Agata reports the band's cause was taken up by artists and musicians around the globe who saw the case as part of Putin's wider attempts to crush the protest movement and free speech, including the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Paul McCartney, who posted a message to Twitter Thursday saying: "I hope you can stay strong and believe that I and many others like me who believe in free speech will do everything in our power to support you and the idea of artistic freedom." Madonna recently performed with the name of the band on her back. "They have done something

courageous," she said. "I think they have paid the price for this act, and I pray for their freedom." The remaining members of the band have said whatever the outcome, women in Russia and beyond should grab a facemask, gather together and cause a riot of their own in support. Protests timed to just before the verdict or soon afterward were planned in more than three dozen cities worldwide. Prosecutors have asked for threeyear sentences, down from the possible seven-year maximum and Putin himself has said he hopes the sentencing is not "too severe." Before Friday's proceedings began, defense lawyer Nikolai Polozov said the women "hope for an acquittal but they are ready to continue to fight." There was a heavy police presence around the court building in central Moscow, where hundreds of protesters and band supporters were gathering. Even if the women are sentenced only to time already served, the case has already strongly clouded Russia's esteem overseas and stoked the resentment of opposition partisans who have turned out in a series of massive rallies since last winter. The case comes in the wake of several recently passed laws cracking down on opposition, including one that raised the fine for taking part in an unauthorized demonstrations by 150 times to 300,000 rubles (about $9,000).

Jesse Jackson Jr. in "deep" depression CHICAGO - U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. is in a "deep" depression and has "a lot of work" ahead of him on the road to recovery, former Rhode Island U.S. Rep. Patrick Kennedy said Thursday after visiting the hospitalized Chicago Democrat. Jackson has been on a secretive medical leave since June 10, when family members said he collapsed at their home in Washington. He is currently being treated for bipolar disorder at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. But neither his office nor family members have said much about his medical condition. The visit from Kennedy — who has suffered with bipolar disorder and been treated at Mayo — gave one of the first outside glimpses of Jackson's health. "I don't think people understand the depth of his depression. It's deep. He has a lot of work to continue to do to be able to learn how to treat this illness in the most effective way possible," Kennedy told The Associated Press. "Depression is a serious thing, and I'm glad that he's taking it seriously." Jackson's spokesman declined to comment Thursday, and it's uncertain when Jackson can return to work. Last week, an aide said the congressman could be expected back at work in a matter of weeks. But after the Mayo Clinic released a detailed diagnosis of his health, his spokesman declined to comment. Jackson's father, the Rev. Jesse Jackson, also has declined to speak on the topic.

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UN monitors quit, saying Syrians choose "path of war" Syria's government and rebels have "chosen the path of war", a U.N. peacekeeping chief said as the world body ended its doomed monitoring mission to Damascus and deadlock persists among world powers over how to contain the spreading conflict. Two weeks after former U.N. secretary-general Kofi Annan quit as mediator in frustration with the failure of a four-month-old truce, military observers have no peace on the ground to monitor and U.N. officials said on Thursday the last of the few dozen remaining team members would quit Damascus by August 24. "It is clear that both sides have chosen the path of war, open conflict, and the space for political dialogue and cessation of hostilities and mediation is very, very reduced at this point," said deputy U.N. peacekeeping chief Edmond Mulet. At a time when fighting is raging around Syria's biggest city, Aleppo, and tit-for-tat sectarian kidnappings have spread the Syrian conflict into fragile neighboring Lebanon, Western powers and Russia remain resolutely at odds in the Security Council over the fate of President Bashar al-Assad. Syrian rebels, who launched offensives following a bombing on July 18 that killed key Assad lieutenants in Damascus, may have taken heart from Western and Gulf Arab sources saying on Thursday that the president's feared brother Maher, a senior military figure, had lost a leg in that bomb attack. However, a Lebanese politician with close ties to the Assad administration said he doubted Maher had been badly wounded. And Syria's foreign minister, while not addressing the report directly, scoffed at rebel hopes; Walid al-Moualem told state television that talk of defeating the army was "delusional". Moscow, which advocates a

transitional peace in which Assad might play a role, criticized the United States, which says the Syrian president must step down immediately. Russia's diplomats said Washington had shown a lack of commitment to Annan's tattered April peace plan by its insistence that the monitoring mission, UNSMIS, should be wound up when its mandate expired. Diplomats from the major powers, along with key Arab governments and Turkey, will meet at the United Nations in New York on Friday to discuss what comes next. The international mediation effort, such as it is, at least seems likely to have a new figurehead; Algerian diplomat Lakhdar Brahimi, a veteran of troubles in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere, has agreed to take over as peacebroker on Syria but with an altered mandate, U.N. sources said. Envoys said he had demanded "strong support" from the Security Council and one source said that Brahimi would not continue with Annan's "failed approach". U.N. peacekeeping official Mulet said: "The situation on the ground is extremely difficult. But the fact that it's difficult doesn't mean that we should not face that challenge of trying to open those political spaces in the future." In the meantime, the price being paid by the Syrian people was underlined by the U.N. humanitarian chief, Valerie Amos, who said during a visit to the country that as many of 2.5 million people, about one tenth of the population, were in need of aid. Across Syria's borders, the conflict is rippling out along the sectarian and ethnic faultlines of the Middle East. Long a rare Arab ally of Tehran, Assad depends increasingly for support on his Alawite minority, whose faith is an offshoot of the Shi'ite form of Islam practiced in Iran. Against him

Bobby Brown in rehab as part of DUI plea deal Bobby Brown has checked himself into rehab, his rep said Thursday, as part of the plea deal that made his March DUI arrest go away. The R&B singer, 43, checked into a "confidential rehabilitation center” last week, Brown’s spokesman said in an email to the Associated Press on Thursday. The plea agreement required 90 days of alcohol treatment, his rep said. "Mr. Brown takes his agreement very seriously and admitted himself three weeks after concluding his honeymoon in Mexico during a break from the New Edition tour," spokesman Christopher Brown told CNN, adding that the singer was "doing well." Daughter Bobbi Kristina Brown, however, seemed to disagree, telling TMZ that "rise above" was not a phrase that should be used in connection with her dad's alcohol battle. Bobby Brown is also on three years' informal probation, and had a oneday jail sentence that was satisfied with time served. Brown was pulled over in Reseda on the afternoon of March 26 for talking on his cellphone, then failed a field sobriety test, police said. The arrest came just days after coroner's officials revealed a cause of death for his ex-wife Whitney Houston: accidental drowning, with cocaine use exacerbating a heart condition. Brown married Alicia Etheredge in June.

are ranged insurgents largely drawn from Syria's Sunni Muslim majority, who have backing, if largely rhetorical so far, from the West, as well as Sunni Arab leaders in the Gulf and Turkey. Gulf Arab states told their citizens to leave Lebanon after a local Shi'ite

clan kidnapped more than 20 people in Beirut and initially threatened to seize more Arab nationals. The gunmen said a Turkish hostage would be the first to die if their kinsman held by Syrian rebels in Damascus were killed.

Whitney Houston (R) and co-star Jordin Sparks

Whitney Houston’s presence felt in ‘Sparkle’ In one of the final scenes in the new musical drama "Sparkle," Whitney Houston, playing a strict, religious-minded mother and former star, teases Jordin Sparks, playing her daughter that she won't sit too close to the front of the auditorium to watch the girl make her singing debut for fear of upstaging her. Unfortunately, the untimely death of the Grammy-winning singer-actress in February threatens to do just that — Houston's posthumous presence is stealing at least some of the spotlight from Sparks, the "American Idol" winner who, in her inaugural film performance, plays the title role. Opening Friday, "Sparkle" is a remake of the 1976 film starring Irene Cara and Philip Michael Thomas, which was regarded by many, especially in the African American community, as a landmark movie moment. The story centers on a family of three talented sisters being raised by a single mother whose own show business dreams were ended by addiction and an unplanned pregnancy. The remake, which was directed by Salim Akil ("Jumping the Broom") from a script by his wife and professional partner, Mara Brock Akil, relocates the setting from 1950s Harlem to 1960s Detroit. Houston performs one song in the movie, "His Eyes Are on the Sparrow," in a scene set in a church. Sony Pictures, the studio behind the $14-million film, had scheduled "Sparkle" for its late-summer release long before the singer's death, calculating that mid-August would be an ideal time to attract older female moviegoers. After Houston was found dead in her room at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, Sony decided to stick to its plan. "There was never a discussion about moving it up," said Jeff Blake, vice chairman of Sony Pictures Entertainment, which is distributing the project through its TriStar label. But he acknowledged the delicacy of the situation. "Right after her passing, we wanted to err on the side of not emphasizing her too much." It's not the first time film marketers have had to walk the difficult line of selling a movie marred by tragedy. In the summer of 2008, Warner Bros. crafted a campaign for "The Dark Knight" that didn't downplay the presence of Heath Ledger's Joker but also didn't over-hype the presence of the actor who had died of a drug overdose months earlier. In October of 2009, Sony released the Michael Jackson concert film "This Is It" after the pop star died in the middle of rehearsals for a series of upcoming stadium performances, positioning the backstage documentary as a tribute to Jackson's musical legacy. In the case of "Sparkle," Houston not only appears on screen but was also instrumental behind the scenes. She and producer Debra Martin Chase acquired the remake rights 12 years ago — the duo had produced the 2001 Anne Hathaway-starrer "The Princess Diaries" together — and saw the project through many starts and stops. (Pop star Aaliyah was initially cast in the lead before the 22-year-old was killed in a plane crash.)

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WORLD NEWS

Ann Romney ﬁercely defends decision to withhold tax returns Ann Romney gets her say Thursday night about the increasingly urgent — or from her perspective, unreasonable — demands for the release of her family’s tax returns. After briefly dropping off the political radar, questions that have dogged presumed GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney are back: How much has he paid over the last decade in federal taxes? Will he prove it by releasing more than two years of returns? On the trail Thursday, The Times’ Michael Finnegan reported that Romney swatted down the accusation (as advanced and re-advanced by Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid) that he has not paid his fair share. He said his federal tax rate has never dropped below 13% for each of the last 10 years. “And if you add, in addition, the amount that goes to charity,” Romney told reporters, “why the number gets well above 20%.” Ann Romney’s irritation was apparent in an interview with NBC that took place during a break in the Olympics in Wales, her ancestral home. (Her horse, Rafalca, and trainer, Jan Ebeling, competed for the U.S. Equestrian team in dressage. They did not medal.) The interview, by correspondent

Ann Romney, wife of Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney, shown at a June campaign stop in Milford, N.H., reiterated her distaste for questions about her family's tax records

Natalie Morales, is part of a profile of the would-be first lady that will air on Thursday’s edition of “Rock Center With Brian Williams” at 10 p.m. PDT. Sitting at a table in a cozy pub in Llangynwd in southern Wales’ coal country with a pot of tea and bone china cups between them, Romney’s feelings broke the surface when Morales raised the issue of the Romney tax returns. “I know it’s not a question that is welcomed, but must be asked,” Morales

said. “Why not be transparent and release more than the 2010 and the estimates for 2011?” Romney was pleasant but fierce: “Have you seen how we’re attacked? Have you seen what’s happened?” “Are you angry that it’s been in the press?” Morales asked. “I mean should you not be questioned about your finances?” “We have been transparent to what’s legally required of us,” Romney said. “But

Millionaire VP pick: Paul Ryan rich from investments, inheritance Rep. Paul Ryan speaks with staff aboard Mitt Romney's charter airplane at Dulles International Airport in Sterling,

With business investments and a family inheritance, Rep. Paul D. Ryan of Wisconsin and his wife have accumulated millions of dollars in assets and generated income last year well above his congressional salary, according to his most recent financial disclosure statement. Mitt Romney’s newly announced running mate reported assets in the range of $2 million to $7.7 million. The largest was the interest that his wife, Janna, holds in a trust resulting from the 2010 death of her mother, Prudence Little. Her interest in the trust falls in the range of $1 million to $5 million, Ryan reported. Ryan also reported investment income that, along with a distribution from the inheritance, supplemented his $174,000 congressional salary – somewhere between $168,000 and $1.2 million.

Members of Congress disclose their income and assets in ranges rather than precise amounts. The report shows that Ryan has spread his wealth among a wide variety of investments. Ryan reported partnership income from an Oklahoma mining business, Ava O Limited Co., and royalties from the Oklahoma gravel rights of Blondie & Brownie. He also reported interests in mineral rights, vacant land, a cabin and a timber business in Oklahoma. Ryan’s stock holdings include Apple, Bristol Myers Squibb, Exxon Mobil, General Electric, Home Depot, IBM, Procter & Gamble, Wells Fargo, Google, McDonald’s, Kraft Foods, Nike and Berkshire Hathaway. He also reported a mortgage on his house in Janesville, Wis., in the range of $250,001 to $500,000.

the more we release, the more we get attacked, the more we get questions, the more we get pushed. We have done what’s legally required, and there’s going to be no more tax releases given. And there’s a reason for that. And that’s because of … what happens as soon as we release anything. Mitt’s financial disclosures when he was governor were huge. “The other thing you have to understand is that Mitt is honest, his integrity is, is just golden. We pay our taxes .... Beyond paying our taxes, we also give 10% of our income to charity. So we have no issues that way, and the only reason we don’t disclose any more is, you know, we just become a bigger target.” Morales: “So it’s because you will just continue to face more questions?” “Well, it will just give them more ammunition,” Romney replied. Morales: “To the American people though, when they hear about perhaps accounts with your name on it overseas, and tax shelters, they feel like you may be hiding something.” “There’s nothing we’re hiding,” Romney said. “We’ve had a blind trust for, how many years? We don’t even know what’s in there. We’ve had a blind trust since before Mitt was governor, you know, 2002 forward. And so you know, I’ll be curious to see what’s in there, too.”

Two oﬃcers killed, two wounded in Louisiana Two sheriff's deputies were shot dead and two wounded in LaPlace, Louisiana on Thursday by an attacker armed with an assault weapon, police said. The gunman shot one St. John Parish deputy while he was directing traffic in an off-site parking lot for the Valero Energy Corp's St. Charles refinery, Sheriff Mike Tregre said. The gunman fled the scene, and officers investigating the incident ended up at a trailer at a trailer court. While they interviewed two suspects, a person came out of the trailer with an assault weapon and fatally "ambushed" two officers, he said. "At this point, it's a very hot investigation and it's ongoing," Tregre said at a televised news briefing. Five people are believed to be in custody. Some suspects were shot and wounded, he said. Details were still sketchy, but Tregre said: "There are no other perpetrators on the loose." The slain deputies were identified as Brandon Nielsen, 34, and Jeremy Triche, 27. The wounded deputies were identified as Scott Boyington and Jason Triche. The Louisiana State Police have taken over the investigation and are looking into what led to the initial shooting. A State Police spokeswoman told CNN that two of the officers were off-duty and two were on duty. LaPlace is about 25 miles west of New Orleans. Valero said in a statement that refinery operations were not affected. (Reporting by Ian Simpson and Colleen Jenkins; Editing by Vicki Allen and David Brunnstrom)

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WikiLeaks founder wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be allowed to leave UK although Ecudaor granted him asylum LONDON - British Foreign Secretary William Hague said Thursday that the U.K. will not allow WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange safe passage out of the country. The announcement came hours after Ecuador granted Assange political asylum, a decision that thrilled supporters but did not defuse the standoff at the Latin American nation's London embassy, where he has been holed up for almost two months. Now the standoff between the two nations centers on an inviolable diplomatic principle: British law and the British police cannot reach inside the embassy of a foreign country. Ecuador said British officials have threatened to march in and grab Assange from its London embassy, where he has been holed up in a bid to escape extradition to Sweden over sex crimes allegations. WikiLeaks announced through its Twitter account that Assange would make a statement in front of the

embassy Sunday at 2 p.m. (9 a.m. ET). Earlier, Assange in a statement praised Ecuador's "courage." Hague said Thursday that Britain would not grant Assange safe passage because "there is no legal basis for us to do so." He said Assange was wanted in Sweden to answer allegations of "serious sexual offenses." He said the extradition had nothing to do with the work of WikiLeaks or with a desire by U.S. authorities to try him for publishing diplomatic secrets. How Assange could get to Ecuador was anyone's guess. Legal experts debated whether Assange could get safe passage in a diplomatic car, escape in an oversized diplomatic bag, or slip out when police relaxed their guard. Under the 1961 Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, diplomatic posts are treated as the territory of the foreign nation. However, in a letter to Ecuadorean officials, Britain cited a little-known

$337 Million winning Powerball ticket sold in Michigan Somebody in Michigan may be very happy soon. Lottery officials say a winning ticket for the estimated $337 million Powerball jackpot was purchased in Michigan. Also there were eight tickets that won the $1 million Match 5 prize. Two of those tickets were bought in Indiana, the others were purchased in Kansas, Kentucky, New Jersey, New Mexico, Pennsylvania and Virginia, lottery officials said. The winning numbers were 6,27,46,51,56 and 21. The prize for the national lottery, which is held in 42 states, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia, swelled Saturday after no one hit all six numbers. The game's largest prize to date was $365 million, which was awarded in 2006 to a group of eight co-workers at a Nebraska meat-packing plant. In 2005, a group of four in Oregon won a $340 million jackpot -considered the second largest. Those record drawings happened when the cost for a Powerball ticket was $1. In January, the price increased to $2, with officials saying it would lead to an increased number of large jackpots. At the same time, the odds improved somewhat because officials reduced the number of red balls -the powerballs -- from 39 to 35. Earlier this year, Louise White, an 81-year-old Rhode Island resident, came forward as the winner of a $336.4 million prize, the third largest in the game's history. "I'm very happy and I'm very proud," she said. "We are truly blessed. Thank you." White bought the winning ticket in February in Newport, Rhode Island, after a family member had a craving for rainbow sherbet and brought her to a store where she purchased the ticket. After realizing she had won, White tucked the winning ticket into her Bible and went to sleep holding the book, bringing it with her to breakfast the next day until she could eventually store it in a safe deposit box, before claiming her winnings. At $337 million, the Powerball pot still has ways to go to catch MegaMillions at the top of the list of U.S. grand prizes. In March, three tickets were sold for a drawing with the top prize of $656 million.

law, the Diplomatic and Consular Premises Act of 1987, which it said would allow the arrest Assange within the embassy premises. The law gives Britain the power to revoke the status of a diplomatic mission if the state in question "ceases to use land for the purposes of its mission or exclusively for the purposes of a consular post" â&#x20AC;&#x201D; but only if such a move is "permissible under international law." In its letter, Britain adds, "We very much hope not to get this point." The law was passed after the 1984 siege of the Libyan embassy in London, which was sparked when someone inside the building fatally shot a British police officer, Yvonne Fletcher. An 11-day standoff ended with Britain severing diplomatic relations with Libya and expelling all its diplomats. The Associated Press could find no record of the law ever being used to justify forcible entry into an embassy. Many legal experts are skeptical

Julian Assange

British police can remove Assange from the embassy. The diplomatic fallout would be immense, leaving British missions around the world vulnerable to reprisals. And lawyers say a British court would likely be unwilling to sanction a raid on the embassy. The law was intended for situations in which a diplomatic mission was being used for serious wrongdoing such as terrorism. Sheltering Assange hardly compares. London police have been stationed outside the embassy building since Assange holed up there in June. He could try to sneak past them in disguise, perhaps trying to lose pursuers in the aisles of the nearby Harrods department store. But he would be liable to arrest if identified.

Suspect in Washington shooting voiced political grudge The man charged in a shooting at a conservative Christian lobbying group in downtown Washington told a guard "I don't like your politics" before wounding him, according to court documents filed on Thursday. Floyd Lee Corkins II, 28, of Herndon, Virginia, also was carrying 15 sandwiches from Chick-fil-A, a fast-food chain, in Wednesday's shooting at the Family Research Council, an affidavit said. The Family Research Council strongly opposes same-sex marriage and abortion, and Corkins had been a volunteer at a Washington gay and lesbian community center. Chick-fil-A's president has publicly opposed same-sex marriage. Corkins' parents told FBI agents that Corkins "has strong opinions with respect to those he believes do not treat homosexuals in a fair manner," the affidavit from the FBI said. In an initial court appearance, Magistrate Judge Alan Kay ordered that Corkins be held without bond and that he undergo a mental evaluation. A preliminary and detention hearing was set for August 24. Corkins faces a District of Columbia charge of assault with intent to kill while armed and a federal charge of interstate transportation of a firearm and ammunition. Corkins appeared in court subdued and dressed in white prison garb, his hands behind his back when he stood to address the judge. He told Kay he had about $300 and no property, and was assigned a public defender. SHOT GUARD IN ARM The affidavit said a security guard stopped Corkins at the door of the Family Research Council. A witness told Federal Bureau of Investigation agents that Corkins then "stated words to the effect of, 'I don't like your politics,'" it said. Surveillance camera footage showed that Corkins then pulled a Sig Sauer 9mm pistol from a backpack and shot the guard in the arm. The wounded guard wrestled the gun from Corkins and subdued him. A second guard called 911, the affidavit said. Investigators recovered two more loaded magazines at the scene. They found another 50 rounds of ammunition and the Chick-fil-A sandwiches in Corkins' backpack. The complaint said that Corkins lived with his parents. He had left their car at a Virginia subway station before the attack. Corkins faces up to 10 years in prison for the federal weapons charge and from five to 30 years for the District of Columbia offense.

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HIGHLIGHTS

Facebook sinks to new low as insiders are allowed to sell shares READ MORE ON PAGE 40

Euro zone heading into another recession The euro zone will slip into recession and won't grow until 2013, according to the latest Reuters poll of economists who also don't expect any new aggressive policy response from the European Central Bank. The latest monthly survey results, released on Thursday, follow news that the euro zone just barely skirted recession in the first half of the year, with only Germany growing in the three months to June and France, the second largest euro zone economy, flatlining. Taken together with a worsening outlook for the euro zone's most vulnerable economies in a Reuters poll published last week, there appears to expectation for an end to the euro crisis or any prospects for a meaningful

economic rebound. A modest 25 basis point interest rate cut to 0.50 percent expected from the ECB next month will not be enough to stop the rot and would be largely symbolic, as the rate is already so close to zero and can do little to stimulate borrowing. While ECB President Mario Draghi has promised he will do whatever it takes to save the euro, and large-scale purchases of short-term Spanish and Italian debt are likely later this year, there is nothing on the horizon that economists see as pointing to vigorous recovery. Ruben Segura-Cayuela, economist at Bank of America Merrill Lynch, said that the "absence of a clear end-game or roadmap to an end-game" for the

euro zone debt crisis was holding back consumers and stopping businesses from investing or hiring. The Reuters poll predicted the euro zone economy, which shrank by 0.2 percent in the second quarter, will contract by the same amount in the current quarter. That is slightly deeper than the 0.1 percent contraction forecast in the July Reuters poll. But that relatively mild slide masks much more severe downturns in Italy and Spain, the third and fourth largest euro zone economies, and an outright collapse in Greece, where nearly one quarter of the population is now out of work. Economists are getting progressively more confident of an official recession in the third quarter,

with the range of forecasts narrowing to just 0.1 percent growth to a 0.8 percent contraction. Only one economist predicted growth. The Reuters poll found the vast majority of economists did not expect the central bank to try to cap Spanish and Italian bond yields as has been suggested by some, nor will it resort to buying anything other than government bonds on the open market. Poll respondents were split on the likelihood of another long-term refinancing operation like the ECB conducted in December and then in February, essentially hosing the markets down with over one trillion euros of three-year cash. Forty-five of 64 economists polled in August expect Greece to remain in the currency bloc in the next 12 months, compared with 35 of 64 economists in a similar poll in May. Greece's prime minister, Antonis Samaras, is due to meet with euro zone leaders next week and will be angling for more time to meet strict austerity targets which so far have contributed to an economic depression there.

Data points to White House dusting oďŹ&#x20AC; plan for potential oil release lackluster economic growth A trend measure of Americans signing up for new jobless benefits fell close to a four-year low last week, but weakness in a regional factory gauge showed U.S. recovery still faces an uphill climb. Other data on Thursday gave mixed signals about the strength of an incipient housing recovery, with groundbreaking on new homes falling slightly in July even as building permits rose. Taken together, the data reinforced the view that economic growth might pick up in the second half of the year but would still be lackluster. Growth and hiring were disappointing in the spring and expectations that the Federal Reserve could unleash more economic stimulus have grown, although the likelihood of action at its next meeting may be dimming. "For the Fed, the issue was whether the economy was sliding toward the abyss and it doesn't seem to be. But it's certainly not improving," said Pierre Ellis, an economist at Decision Economics in New York. The Philadelphia Federal Reserve Bank said its business activity index, which measures activity at factories in the mid-Atlantic region, was at minus 7.1 in August. Any reading below zero indicates a contraction in manufacturing in eastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey and Delaware. The report offers an early sign of the health of U.S. manufacturing. A national reading indicated the sector shrank in June and July.

The White House is "dusting off old plans" for a potential release of oil reserves to dampen rising gasoline prices and prevent high energy costs from undermining the success of Iran sanctions, a source with knowledge of the situation said on Thursday. U.S. officials will monitor market conditions over the coming weeks, watching whether gasoline prices fall after the September 3 Labor Day holiday, as they historically do, the source said. It was too early to say how big a drawdown would be from the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve and, potentially, other international reserves if a decision to proceed was taken, the source said. Oil prices have surged in recent weeks, with Brent crude prices closing in on $120 a barrel, up sharply from around $90 a barrel in July. The United States and other Group of Eight countries studied a potential oil release in the spring but shelved the plans when prices dropped. With prices high again, U.S. officials were now collecting information from the market about potential needs and studying futures, production numbers and data on Iranian oil exports. "The driving force in this is both impact on the economy and impact on the Iran sanctions policy," the source said, noting that Washington did not want rising oil prices to create a windfall for Iran while oil embargo and international sanctions were having an effective impact. The United States has not yet held talks with international partners about a coordinated move. The source noted that Britain, France, Germany and other partner nations in the Paris-based International Energy Agency were receptive to a potential release a few months ago when conditions were similar.

Those countries were concerned about the impact of high oil prices on the global economy and Iran then, and those concerns remain equally relevant now. "The logic behind a potential release in the spring is at least if not...more true today," the source said. Domestically, tapping reserves could spark criticism from Republicans, who would cast it as a political move to boost Democratic President Barack Obama's chances in the November 6 election. The source said the White House had not discussed political ramifications because a decision on a release had not been made. Gathering support from partner nations is likely to be the next step as Washington studies its options. In May the G8 put the IEA -- the West's energy adviser responsible for coordinating reserves -- on standby for action, a sign at the time that Obama was winning support for tapping government-held oil stocks for the second time in two years. Some IEA nations could object to a release now because market conditions are less tight than they were in the spring, the source said. Saudi Arabia and Iraq were producing more and the supply disruption related to Libya was resolved. Germany and some other European nations have generally resisted using government-held oil inventories in the absence of a sharp and deep disruption in supplies. Although the loss of over half Iran's oil exports is about equivalent to the drop in Libyan shipments that prompted IEA action last year, the decline has been relatively gradual and global commercial oil inventories remain relatively well-supplied for this time of year.

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BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY

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Facebook sinks to new low as insiders are allowed to sell shares Facebook's stock sank to a record low Thursday as some of the social networking company’s investors got their first shot since the initial public offering to sell shares. Shares traded as low as $19.69 before coming to rest at $19.87, down $1.33 or more than 6%. More than 156 million shares traded hands, more than five times the average volume. The spike in trading amplified fears that insiders were fleeing a company that, before its IPO in May, was one of Silicon Valley’s brightest. Shares of the IPO were priced at $38; since then the stock has lost nearly half its value amid concerns over slowing revenue growth and its future moneymaking potential, particularly on mobile devices. It will be days before insiders have to disclose if they sold stock. But

investors with a combined 271 million shares could have dumped their holdings Thursday when the first in a series of lock-ups expired. Among those who became eligible to sell shares: investment bank Goldman Sachs and venture capital firms Accel Partners and Greylock Partners. “Certainly some of them sold. The question is how many of them sold and how much of their holdings they sold,” Pivotal Research analyst Brian Wieser said. But, he said, “The big issue is, was and always will be November.” That’s when about 1.2 billion shares from insiders will be eligible to be sold. Kevin Landis, chief investment officer at Firsthand Capital Management in San Jose, bought Facebook shares late last year on the private market. He paid $31.50 apiece.

“Lockup expirations have a lot to do with how Facebook will trade in the next couple of days and almost nothing to do with what the company will be worth a year or two from now,” Landis said. The lockup on Firsthand’s shares expires in November. Landis says he doesn’t yet know if he will sell. “Whatever happens this week is a dress rehearsal for November. That question is not going to be put to us this week. But in November that question will be put to us pretty hard,” Landis said. It has been a dramatic reversal of fortune for Facebook, which went from having one of history’s most hotly anticipated IPOs to one of the most botched. Its market value has plummeted by almost $50 billion. “I think Facebook has a lot of

things going for it. Unfortunately the stock price has not been one of them,” S&P Capital IQ analyst Scott Kessler said. All told, more than 1.7 billion new shares will be released onto the market over the next nine months, said Sam Hamadeh, CEO of PrivCo, which researches privately held companies. He says the share value of the lockup expirations at about $20 a share is nearly $35 billion worth, roughly equivalent to the entire market value of companies such as Starbucks and Target. “There simply is no relief on the horizon for Facebook stockholders,” Hamadeh said. “It will get worse before it gets better.”

Apple in a rush to get fingerprint technology Is super-awesome, hi-tech fingerprint technology heading to Apple products like the the iPhone, iPad and even the Mac store? Fingertips crossed! At the end of July, Apple paid $356 million to buy the fingerprint authentication products maker AuthenTec Inc. In a Securities and Exchange Commission filing Wednesday, it seems that Apple was in a hurry to get the deal done as soon as possible. Check out this chunk of text from the "Background of the Merger" section of the filing: "Representatives of Apple also noted Apple’s desire to proceed quickly due to its product plans and ongoing engineering efforts. As a result of its focus on timing, Apple’s representatives also informed the Company that Apple would not participate in an auction process and would rescind its proposal if the board decided to solicit alternative acquisition proposals for the Company." The filing never explicitly says that Apple is interested in the fingerprint technology piece of AuthenTec's portfolio of products, definitely the coolest of its offerings. As AuthenTec explains on its website, it has developed a patented swipe sensor technology that reads the live layer of skin beneath your actual fingerprint, so even if you have oily or callused fingertips, the fingeprint will still be accurate "for everyone every time." In additon to the obvious security benefits of fingerprint technology, AuthenTec's sensors can associate different functions with different fingers, so in theory, you could teach your phone that if you touch it with your right pinky finger it will open your email inbox, or speed dial your mom if you swipe your right thumb across the screen. Of course, fingerprint technology isn't the only thing AuthenTec works on. It also makes security technology for mobile devices. But that's way less exciting. As my colleague Sal Rodriguez reported in July, Apple's AuthenTec purchase was its biggest purchase since it bought Anobit Technologies in 2011 for $400 million. Here's hoping they paid the big bucks to do something game-changing.

The 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster was owned by German Baroness Gisela von Krieger, whose family brought it to the U.S. after World War II. It could break the $16.4-million record for any car sold at auction when it goes on the block after the Concours d'Elegance car show at Pebble Beach.

1936 MERCEDES MAY BREAK RECORD AT PEBBLE BEACH AUCTION

When Gisela von Krieger died in 1989, the legal team sorting out her estate found a car hidden in a Connecticut barn. Untouched for three decades, the vehicle was an automotive time capsule. Old maps of New York and Connecticut filled the door pockets. A woman's driving glove rested in the glove box. Pink lipstick-stained cigarette butts sat in the ashtray. This wasn't any old car, though. It was a 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster, one of perhaps a dozen left in the world, representing the height of prewar German automotive engineering. "Every little detail was over-engineered" to create "a tour de force of technology and quality," said McKeel Hagerty, who heads a company that insures classic and rare cars. Von Krieger's brother Henning originally paid about $7,000 for the Mercedes. This Sunday, it's likely to fetch at least $10 million and could break the $16.4-million record for any auto sold at auction when it's put up for bid at the splashy Gooding & Co. auction that follows the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance car show. The vehicle is owned by New Hampshire businessman Lee Herrington, who made his money through catalog sales of preppy clothing, shoes and gadgets.

Hypersonic jet designed to fly between London and New York in one hour crashes over Pacific A super-fast plane designed to fly six times faster than the speed of sound has failed its latest test flight. The hypersonic jet Waverider has been created by the US military. But a test plane, with nobody on board, was lost in the Pacific Ocean after a faulty control stopped its supersonic-combustion ramjet engine from starting. It's the second time this has happened, but its first test flight in 2010 flew at five times the speed of sound for three minutes. The US government and Nasa hope the project can be used to develop faster missiles. If it works, it could one day carry passengers

- but that probably won't be until around the year 2050! In the future, it could mean travelling around the world is much quicker. If planes like this were used for commercial flights it'd mean you could get from London to New York in about an hour. At the moment it would take you about eight hours. Work on the WaveRider was done by Boeing Co.’s research center in Huntington Beach and Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne in Canoga Park. The program cost an estimated $140 million, according to Globalsecurity.org, a website for military policy research.

BELONGERSHIPS

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AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

BELONGER STAUTUS APPLICATION (Section 3 (2) of the Immigration Ordinance Take notice that I, Ric Todd, Governor of The Turks and Caicos, in excercise of the powers conferred on me by Section 3 (2) of Immigration Ordinace, intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to MRS. BERTHA PIERRETTE-GRANT of Providenciales, a national of Haiti being satisfied by virtue of marriage to a belonger of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

BELONGER STAUTUS APPLICATION (Section 3 (2) of the Immigration Ordinance Take notice that I, Ric Todd, Governor of The Turks and Caicos, in excercise of the powers conferred on me by Section 3 (2) of Immigration Ordinace, intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to MRS. ISEMANE JOSEPH-EXILUS of Providenciales, a national of Haiti, being satisfied by virtue of marriage to a belonger of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

BELONGER STAUTUS APPLICATION (Section 3 (2) of the Immigration Ordinance Take notice that I, Ric Todd, Governor of The Turks and Caicos, in excercise of the powers conferred on me by Section 3 (2) of Immigration Ordinace, intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to MRS. MARTHA YRIS RODRIQUEZJENNINGS of Providenciales, a national of Dominican Republic, being satisfied by virtue of marriage to a belonger of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

BELONGER STAUTUS APPLICATION (Section 3 (2) of the Immigration Ordinance Take notice that I, Ric Todd, Governor of The Turks and Caicos, in excercise of the powers conferred on me by Section 3 (2) of Immigration Ordinace, intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to MRS. YVONNE JOY BOYDEN-EWING of Providenciales, a national of Jamaica, being satisfied by virtue of marriage to a belonger of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

BELONGER STAUTUS APPLICATION (Section 3 (2) of the Immigration Ordinance Take notice that I, Ric Todd, Governor of The Turks and Caicos, in excercise of the powers conferred on me by Section 3 (2) of Immigration Ordinace, intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to MRS. MARIE LYVIE TOUSSAINT-TAYLOR of Providenciales, a national of Haiti, being satisfied by virtue of marriage to a belonger of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

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BELONGER STAUTUS APPLICATION (Section 3 (2) of the Immigration Ordinance Take notice that I, Ric Todd, Governor of The Turks and Caicos, in excercise of the powers conferred on me by Section 3 (2) of Immigration Ordinace, intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to MRS. ROSE AMILA DANGER-WILLIMAS of Providenciales, a national of Haiti being satisfied by virtue of marriage to a belonger of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

BELONGER STAUTUS APPLICATION (Section 3 (2) of the Immigration Ordinance Take notice that I, Ric Todd, Governor of The Turks and Caicos, in excercise of the powers conferred on me by Section 3 (2) of Immigration Ordinace, intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to MRS. ADELINE ETIENNE-BROWN of Providenciales, a national of Haiti, being satisfied by virtue of marriage to a belonger of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

BELONGER STAUTUS APPLICATION (Section 3 (2) of the Immigration Ordinance Take notice that I, Ric Todd, Governor of The Turks and Caicos, in excercise of the powers conferred on me by Section 3 (2) of Immigration Ordinace, intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to MRS. MARIE AVENAGARDINER of Providenciales, a national of Haiti, being satisfied by virtue of marriage to a belonger of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

BELONGER STAUTUS APPLICATION (Section 3 (2) of the Immigration Ordinance Take notice that I, Ric Todd, Governor of The Turks and Caicos, in excercise of the powers conferred on me by Section 3 (2) of Immigration Ordinace, intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to MRS. MARGARETTE ALCINEUSJENNINGS of Providenciales, a national of Haiti, being satisfied by virtue of marriage to a belonger of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

BELONGER STAUTUS APPLICATION (Section 3 (2) of the Immigration Ordinance Take notice that I, Ric Todd, Governor of The Turks and Caicos, in excercise of the powers conferred on me by Section 3 (2) of Immigration Ordinace, intend to grant a Certificate of Belonger Status to MR. EXANORD LORDEUS of Providenciales, a national of Haiti, being satisfied by virtue of marriage to a belonger of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

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President of The Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA) Michael Sands, who delivered a guaranteed letter of acceptance from the Bahamas Government to the IAAF, said they are looking forward to putting on a show that the world has never seen.

READ BAHAMAS TO HOST FIRST IAAF WORLD RELAY CHAMPIONSHIP

e Bahamas to host ﬁrst IAAF World Relay Championships LONDON, England — Some of the world’s top athletes will converge in the Bahamas when the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF) stages the inaugural IAAF World Relay Championships in the new Thomas A Robinson Track and Field Stadium in May 2014. IAAF president Lamine Diack said the two-day competition will “bring together the world’s best athletes” in a schedule that includes the 4x100 and 4x400-metre races as well as the 4x200, 4x800 and 4x1500 relays. The athletes will be competing for $1.4 million in prize money. Speaking at a press conference following the athletic competitions at the London 2012 Olympics, Diack said the IAAF selected the Bahamas based on the past success of the country’s famous “Golden Girls” in the women’s relays, as well as the men’s 4 x 400 relay team of Chris ‘Fireman’ Brown,

Demetrius Pinder, Michael Mathieu and Ramon ‘Fearless’ Miller, who stormed to victory for the gold medal at the recently concluded Games. While The Bahamas has long been a force to be reckoned with in the relays, countries have also been eager to compete in The Bahamas at the Carifta Games, which is expected to be a prelude to the World Relay Championships when it is held in the new stadium next Easter. President of The Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA) Michael Sands, who delivered a guaranteed letter of acceptance from the Bahamas Government to the IAAF, said they are looking forward to putting on a show that the world has never seen because there is no comparison with this being the first relay championships to be held. “Our vision, from the beginning, is

what do we do with this new facility and how do we promote the sport of track and field in the Bahamas at the same time and continue to grow the sport of track and field in The Bahamas,” Sands said. “The only way to do that is to ensure the stadium does not become a white elephant and to create some incentive for our athletes. “So being able to secure an event of the IAAF World Series, in this instance the World Relay Championships, the IAAF is fully behind it because it’s their event. We are only hosting it. But we are very, very fortunate that they have selected us as the inaugural host of the initial World Relay Championships. It’s a prestigious event for us.” Sands, who will be seeking another four-year term in office when the BAAA holds elections in November, said a local steering committee, similar to the ones

Trinidad gives Olympic gold medalist $1million and a mansion It was a day of rewards at Piarco International Airport as Olympic champion Keshorn Walcott returned home after a stunning gold medal performance at the London games. Walcott, the teenage sensation from Toco, returned to this country after a record-breaking performance during the men's javelin throw in the London Olympics on Saturday. Walcott, 19, won gold with a throw of 84.58 metres. He was honoured for his feat and left the airport well rewarded. Among the goodies presented by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar to Walcott was $1 million in cash "to be invested as he so desires". Walcott will also receive a home in the upscale community of Federation Park valued at $2.5 million. "For bringing us such pride and recognition to the nation of Trinidad and Tobago Keshorn Walcott will receive 20,000 square feet, that is, four lots of land in Toco," Persad-Bissessar said. She also said, "A housing project to be called the Keshorn Walcott Housing Development will be established. This development will bring housing and employment to Toco." "The Lighthouse, a historical site, will now be known as the Keshorn Walcott Lighthouse standing as a beacon to guide us all towards what it takes to get to our dreams," Persad-Bissessar said. "A Caribbean Airlines aircraft will be commissioned to bear the proud name of Keshorn Walcott," she said. Walcott was also given a model of a Caribbean Airlines aircraft. He was also awarded a scholarship to the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) "to further his studies in his chosen field". Walcott's coach Ismael Lopez was also honoured.

assembled for the hosting of Carifta and the Central American and Caribbean Championships, will be announced shortly. “But there is a lot of work ahead of us. Like what they’ve done in Great Britain, when we have Carifta coming up in Easter and the Relay Championships in 2014, we are going to need a whole lot of volunteers to make it happen and all hands on deck because the first one has to be a lasting impression, even though they have committed to giving it to us two years in a row. We have to make a showing of it to make it happen.” Sands added that it would be nice if at least half of the 204 registered member federations could make it to the Bahamas because it would be a tremendous boost to the country’s mainstay tourism industry. “Part of the incentives is that the World Relays will also serve as qualifiers for the World Championships as well as the Olympic Games, so we expect that we will have participation from a great number of our member federations through the IAAF,” Sands said. “So this is bigger than the BAAA. Thus is bigger than Nassau. This is the IAAF and they have expressed their confidence in us and are satisfied that we are capable to do it.” It is not yet known when the new stadium will be ready for occupancy. Since its official opening in February, it has not been used due to cosmetic work that is still ongoing on the outside. There was also an issue with the certification of the IAAF and FIFA, the governing bodies for track and field and soccer respectively, the primary users of the facility.

LIVE IN CARE GIVER NEEDED

Trinidad and Tobago's Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar holds Keshorn Walcott's gold medal

Persad-Bissessar said that "Lopez will be placed in charge of an elite throws programme at UTT where all future talent including Keshorn can be developed in field events". "Coach Lopez you have done an amazing job and I honour your result by promising you here that your appeal for facilities for field events will be realised as I have advised the Minister of Sport to bring a recommendation before the Cabinet for consideration," Persad-Bissessar said. The last time Trinidad and Tobago achieved a gold medal was 36 years ago at the Olympic Games in Montreal,Canada in 1976 when sprinter Hasely Crawford won the men's 100 metres final.

to provide companionship and care giving services. This includes providing mobility assistance, dispensing medications, preparing and serving meals, bed making, laundering and taking vital signs. Must be willing to relocate and live with elderly family. Must have previous care giving experience. Salary for this position is $16,000.00 to 18,200.00 per annum. Please submit applications with detailed resumes and references to P.O. Box 23, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands or accounting@prestigiousproperties .com No later than August 31, 2012

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Outside of Howard, Miami has a huge speed advantage that could wear the Lakers down in a seven-game championship series... Meanwhile, Miami has more reliable outside shooters in Ray Allen, Shane Battier and Chalmers that could make it hard for the Lakers to shrink the floor. LAKERS VS MIAMI- READ MORE BELOW

Dwight Howardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s presence gives Lakersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ticket prices a boost A long time awaits before the Lakers even begin playing basketball. But if Laker fans don't already have their tickets by then, they may need to hand over a few bills to secure seats. That's always been the case for Laker games, but Dwight Howard's arrival just put ticket demand into overdrive. Fansnap.com, a ticket search engine that compiles results from major ticket marketplaces and ticket agencies, said the average ticket price rests between $270 and $323 per seat since last week when the Lakers acquired Howard. To think Laker tickets seemed relatively more affordable when they averaged $156 per seat. But that was before the Lakers loaded up on a starstudded roster, including point guard

Steve Nash and Howard. Even after the Nash acquisition July 4, Fansnap.com General Manager Mike Janes said average ticket prices climbed up to a relatively modest $175. The price then increased to $250 by the end of July, with Janes suggesting the market anticipated the Lakers would make another blockbuster deal. It predicted correctly. "This is clearly the marquee move that happened this off-season," Janes said about the Howard signing. "Sellers say you will have to pay me more for me to part with my ticket. It's going to be an entertaining team." The most highly anticipated games involve the usual suspects. There's the defending champions in the Miami Heat ($575 per ticket on Jan. 17). The Christmas Day game against the New York Knicks will force fans to be more

Kobe Bryant visits China on Nike tour Greeted by a forest of upraised arms, Kobe Bryant received a warm reception Thursday in China. Of course, Bryant gets this everywhere. When he enters and leaves a Lakers game at Staples Center. At the London Olympics. And, in the case documented in the photo above, at an event in Wuhan in central China's Hubei province as part of his yearly Nike tour. Bryant told The Times in February that he found that the Chinese were especially welcoming when he hosted a clinic in 1998. "I enjoyed being around that," Bryant said. "I thought I'd come back every summer and help them out as much as I can." This is the seventh summer in a row that Bryant has visited China, including the 2008 Beijing Olympics. On this trip, according to published accounts, Bryant has hosted training clinics at Jinan in China's Shandong province and in Wuhan in Hubei province. Bryant attended a charity dinner hosted by the China Soong Ching Ling Foundation, which raises educational funds for needy children in both China and the United States. And it's also safe to presume he'll participate in various events promoting his Nike sneakers. Wherever Bryant goes on the rest of the tour, it's likely he'll meet the same enthusiastic crowds. "I saw they were extremely passionate about the game," Bryant said in February, reflecting on previous trips. "I had a great time over there. They welcomed me with open arms and I've been doing it ever since."

charitable ($450). The Oklahoma City Thunder, which beat the Lakers last season in the Western Conference semifinals, finish a close third ($442 on Jan. 11 ) and fifth ($429 on Jan. 27), respectively. There's also plenty of demand on both old rivals ($431 on Feb. 20 against Boston) and new ($362 on Feb. 14 against the Clippers). Beyond Laker fans feeling the buzz over Howard's arrival and a possible NBA championship, Janes said there's two other factors contributing to the ticket-price increase. "There's more sellers wanting higher asking prices to selling the tickets," he said. "The second thing is more will make the decision to go to more games. That will push supply down. In this supply-demand balance, there will be a lot of demand. If the supply isn't what's it's been in the past,

Dwight Howard

buyers will have to compete more for tickets."

Lakers equipped to beat Miami Heat in NBA Finals With the Lakers' roster changes pretty much finalized, it's safe now to envision how the team will fare heading into the 2012-13 season. Sure, the Lakers will have to narrow their 14-man roster during training camp, and no one knows what deals leading into the trade deadline could change the NBA landscape. But in the spirit of seeing how things have evolved for the Lakers since the 2012 NBA playoffs ended, this is one in a series breaking down potentially troublesome opponents. Team: Miami Heat Lakers' record vs. Heat: 1-1 in the regular season How the Heat fared last season: Finished second in the Eastern Conference behind the Chicago Bulls with a 46-20 record. Beat the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Finals, 4-1. Why the Lakers are a threat to Miami: Nearly every individual match-up favors the Lakers. Steve Nash's pick-and-roll offense and outside shooting trumps any three-point bombs Mario Chalmers makes. Udonis Haslem absolutely has no chance in defending Dwight Howard in the post. Pau Gasol wins the match-up against Chris Bosh because he will be featured more in the Princeton offense, both off pick-and-rolls and offball cuts. Sure, the Heat features the two best players on the floor in LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. They will score their points. But Kobe Bryant will be able to minimize Wade's production with his own scoring and occasionally stopping Wade on defense. Meanwhile, I saw Metta World Peace work out one day this summer and he looks to be in great shape. James will get his points, but he'll have to work for them. The Lakers may have issues with Miami's smallball lineup, but they boast so much offensive talent they can easily compensate for that. Howard's athleticism will allow him to stay on the floor should Miami go small. The Lakers can mitigate such transition opportunities because they have more reliable three-

point shooters in Nash and Jodie Meeks. Miami may push the pace up and down, but the Lakers have more reliable bench options in Antawn Jamison, Jordan Hill and Devin Ebanks, ensuring the starters stay fresh. Why the Heat is a threat to the Lakers: The Heat found out the hard way that constructing a star-studded lineup doesn't automatically result in a championship. So did the 2004 Lakers, though the circumstances remain drastically different. Still, as much as this season's Lakers are equipped to win a title, there are plenty of changes that could leave them vulnerable. It's easy to overstate the case, considering how intelligent Howard, Nash, Bryant and Gasol are, but the Heat's continuity could make a difference. Miami's Big Three have reached a comfort level, while the Lakers could still be figuring out how to set everyone up in their sweet spots and figuring out late-game execution. Outside of Howard, Miami has a huge speed advantage that could wear the Lakers down in a sevengame championship series. By that point, the Lakers could be too tired and injured to fight off the Heat's disciplined half-court defense and ability to stretch the floor. Meanwhile, Miami has more reliable outside shooters in Ray Allen, Shane Battier and Chalmers that could make it hard for the Lakers to shrink the floor. Verdict: Although Miami's small-ball lineup could pose challenges, the Lakers' quest to win a title hinges on whether they fall into the trap that thinking the process will be easy. Circumstances suggest that won't happen. Bryant and Gasol know their opportunities to win more titles are dwindling. Nash has yet to win a title. Howard wants to overcome his poor reputation stemming from his yearlong trade demands. The Lakers recognize they have a short window of opportunity to win a title with this group, and will make sure they maximize such a talented roster. That should prove enough, even against Miami.

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AUGUST 18TH - AUGUST 25TH, 2012

Dwight Howard’s presence gives Lakers’ ticket prices a boost A long time awaits before the Lakers even begin playing basketball. But if Laker fans don't already have their tickets by then, they may need to hand over a few bills to secure seats. That's always been the case for Laker games, but Dwight Howard's arrival just put ticket demand into overdrive. Fansnap.com, a ticket search engine that compiles results from major ticket marketplaces and ticket agencies, said the average ticket price rests between $270 and $323 per seat since last week when the Lakers acquired Howard. To think Laker tickets seemed relatively more affordable when they averaged $156 per seat. But that was before the Lakers loaded up on a starstudded roster, including point guard Steve Nash and Howard. Even after the Nash acquisition July 4, Fansnap.com General Manager Mike Janes said average ticket prices climbed up to a relatively modest $175. The price then increased to $250

Dwight Howard

by the end of July, with Janes suggesting the market anticipated the Lakers would make another blockbuster deal. It predicted correctly. "This is clearly the marquee move that happened this off-season," Janes

said about the Howard signing. "Sellers say you will have to pay me more for me to part with my ticket. It's going to be an entertaining team." The most highly anticipated games involve the usual suspects. There's the

defending champions in the Miami Heat ($575 per ticket on Jan. 17). The Christmas Day game against the New York Knicks will force fans to be more charitable ($450). The Oklahoma City Thunder, which beat the Lakers last season in the Western Conference semifinals, finish a close third ($442 on Jan. 11 ) and fifth ($429 on Jan. 27), respectively. There's also plenty of demand on both old rivals ($431 on Feb. 20 against Boston) and new ($362 on Feb. 14 against the Clippers). Beyond Laker fans feeling the buzz over Howard's arrival and a possible NBA championship, Janes said there's two other factors contributing to the ticket-price increase. "There's more sellers wanting higher asking prices to selling the tickets," he said. "The second thing is more will make the decision to go to more games. That will push supply down. In this supply-demand balance, there will be a lot of demand. If the supply isn't what's it's been in the past, buyers will have to compete more for tickets."

and Jodie Meeks. Miami may push the pace up and down, but the Lakers have more reliable bench options in Antawn Jamison, Jordan Hill and Devin Ebanks, ensuring the starters stay fresh.

Why the Heat is a threat to the Lakers: The Heat found out the hard way that constructing a starstudded lineup doesn't automatically result in a championship. So did the 2004 Lakers, though the circumstances remain drastically different. Still, as much as this season's Lakers are equipped to win Team: Miami Heat a title, there are plenty of changes that could leave Lakers' record vs. Heat: 1-1 in the regular them vulnerable. It's easy to overstate the case, season considering how intelligent Howard, Nash, Bryant How the Heat fared last season: Finished second and Gasol are, but the Heat's continuity could make in the Eastern Conference behind the Chicago a difference. Miami's Big Three have reached a Bulls with a 46-20 record. Beat the Oklahoma City comfort level, while the Lakers could still be Thunder in the NBA Finals, 4-1. figuring out how to set everyone up in their sweet Why the Lakers are a threat to Miami: Nearly spots and figuring out late-game execution. every individual match-up favors the Lakers. Steve Outside of Howard, Miami has a huge speed Nash's pick-and-roll offense and outside shooting advantage that could wear the Lakers down in a trumps any three-point bombs Mario Chalmers seven-game championship series. By that point, the makes. Udonis Haslem absolutely has no chance Lakers could be too tired and injured to fight off in defending Dwight Howard in the post. Pau the Heat's disciplined half-court defense and ability Gasol wins the match-up against Chris Bosh to stretch the floor. Meanwhile, Miami has more because he will be featured more in the Princeton reliable outside shooters in Ray Allen, Shane offense, both off pick-and-rolls and off-ball cuts. Battier and Chalmers that could make it hard for Sure, the Heat features the two best players on the Lakers to shrink the floor. the floor in LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. Verdict: Although Miami's small-ball lineup could They will score their points. But Kobe Bryant will pose challenges, the Lakers' quest to win a title be able to minimize Wade's production with his hinges on whether they fall into the trap that own scoring and occasionally stopping Wade on thinking the process will be easy. defense. Meanwhile, I saw Metta World Peace Circumstances suggest that won't happen. work out one day this summer and he looks to be Bryant and Gasol know their opportunities to win in great shape. James will get his points, but he'll more titles are dwindling. Nash has yet to win a have to work for them. title. Howard wants to overcome his poor The Lakers may have issues with Miami's reputation stemming from his yearlong trade Lin small-ball lineup, but they boast so much offensiveJeremy demands. talent they can easily compensate for that. The Lakers recognize they have a short Howard's athleticism will allow him to stay on the window of opportunity to win a title with this floor should Miami go small. The Lakers can group, and will make sure they maximize such a mitigate such transition opportunities because they talented roster. That should prove enough, even have more reliable three-point shooters in Nash against Miami.

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