JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
VOLUME 8 No. 29
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PNP AND PDM OBJECT TO 28-STOREY HOTEL Website: www.suntci.com
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BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
The Progressive National Party (PNP) and the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) have both registered their objection to the proposed 28-storey hotel in Grace Bay, Providenciales. There was, however, mixed reaction to the project from the approximately 400 persons who packed the Gus Lightbourne Auditorium in Downtown Providenciales on Wednesday July 18th to hear details about the skyscraper. In a press statement issued Thursday, the PNP said it is supportive of development that is consistent with current national planning legislation, regulations and guidelines. “(But) the proposed project of a 28 story hotel and convention centre on Grace Bay is not consistent with our legislation and hence we cannot support it as currently proposed,” the PNP said. “The decision to change the planning regulations to accommodate this development is not a decision that the Interim Administration should make. It is the position of The Progressive National Party that a decision of this importance and magnitude should only be made by a democratically elected Turks and Caicos Islands Government.” The statement added that a PNP Government through wide stake holder consultation and in depth impact studies will formulate a comprehensive physical development plan that is consistent with TCI’s tourism marketing policy that will guide future development on the islands. CONTINUED ON PAGE 6
A section of the people who attended the Town hall meeting on the proposed development of a 28 storey resort on Wednesday, July 18th
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LOCAL NEWS
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PNP and PDM object to 28-storey hotel
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
“There are currently a number of other local development projects that have been stalled by the Interim Administration. We strongly believe that the focus should be reactivating these projects as a matter of urgency. A future PNP Government will make this a priority from day one in office in addition to entertaining new development proposals consistent with our current legislation. This will ensure Belonger placement for jobs and enable maximization of economic benefits to our country and people,” the press release added. Meantime, the PDM, in statement from Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, said while that party is cognizant of the dire need for jobs, inward investments and fresh revenue streams in the country, the PDM “is not in a position to endorse the current proposals for a twenty- eight storey hotel on Grace Bay, Providenciales”. The PDM press release added: “The factors that need to be taken into consideration, such as the height, is a matter for planning and must be dealt with in the light of a comprehensive master plan for the area in which it is proposed to be built. Factors such as existing resorts, and residential dwellings must also be taken into consideration. If the majority of the general public is convinced that such a project is necessary and should be allowed in, then those sentiments should be expressed in public forums such as the meeting held last night at the Gustavus Lightbourne Auditorium and by representations made to the relevant authorities.”
The developers first presented the plan to the Interim Government but they were told to hold consultations with members of the public, whose reaction would depend on whether or not the administration would give the green light for its development. The approximately $200 – million, 4.5 star high density mixed use property is to be cited on at an undisclosed area on the world-famous hotel strip. On completion, the development is expected to house three towers with a minimum of 200 branded hotel rooms, 408 condominiums and conference centre. The amenities include three restaurants, a tournament-style racket club with stadium seating facilities, a spa and a business centre to complement the minimum 12,000 square-foot/400 seating capacity conference centre. There will also be an area for shops. On completion the resort should employ more than 400 persons, 75 percent of whom they said would be Turks and Caicos Islanders. The development is being touted by Canadian attorney Hugh McLean, a longstanding citizen of the TCI, who, for the past few years had been living outside of the country. He represented a consortium of developers and financiers from Canada in what has been the most elaborate resort proposal for the TCI yet. He said a $5.5 million advertising blitz has already set aside for its marketing campaign to lure guests. He said the condos would cater to the upper middle class demographic, while the room rates would be lower than what most hotels in the TCI currently charge. He however, hasted to
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say that he did not envision a decline in the quality of the TCI tourism product, which is currently being marketed as a high-end destination. McLean said that while they have not purchased any property on which to raise the monster building, plots of land had been identified at a particular location, but he were not willing to divulge much details for fear of losing them. He said that the purchasing of the property would be predicated on the approval of the project by government, since his partners were not willing to invest their money in a cloud of uncertainty. McLean said that in a bit to land the project, meetings were held with His Excellency Governor Ric Todd, the Advisory Council, the leadership of both political parties and the Planning Board. He said that while not everyone was in favour of a high rise building being constructed in the Turks and Caicos Islands and Grace Bay in particular, the resort would serve as a trade-off for jobs especially for Turks and Caicos Islanders and much-needed income to the government. He said that the conference centre could attract business executives from large US and Canadian corporations to have their meetings and junkets here, and even generate further business interest on the Islands from that particular demographic. Some of the attendees at the meeting believed that the project was better suited elsewhere on Providenciales such as the Northwest Point area, since, for the most part, hotels on Grace Bay are low density. Some believed that the resort could have been more sprawling rather than towering, saying that should it be given the go-head in its current proposed state, its construction could plunge the luxury brand of the resorts, especially ones that were in close proximity. Others pointed out that while they were not out-rightly opposed to the development, the developers should wait until after the elections, so that the locally-elected government of the day, would be able to have an input on behalf of the populace. Another fear was that such an
undertaken could negatively impact the environment, as no study had been done to determine whether or not the location which the project is proposed to be built would be able to sustain a development of such magnitude, while in the event of a fire, local firefighters would have great difficulty in successfully tackling it. Other members of the audience believed that the presentation lacked key details, and while they were not averse to such development, they would probably be sold had the developers come with a better presentation. Some believe that not many Turks and Caicos Islanders would get jobs during the construction phase, since the builders and construction workers here did not have the necessary experience in high rise building construction. Among those who supported the development was Director of Tourism Ralph Higgs, who told his fellow audience that tourism the world over was changing and that the Turks and Caicos was not immune to such changes. Furthermore, Higgs said that the Grace Bay area was running out of space, and rather than going wide, the thinking should be going high. In the meantime, McLean said that it did not make much business sense to undertake Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) studies while it was not certain whether or not the project would get the all clear sign, stressing that immediately after its approval, he would endeavor to carry out such a studies. On the matter of relocation, McLean said that Grace Bay would be ideal spot for the kind of client that the resort would attract, and that having it sited at a different location would not give the same feel and appeal. McLean also told the gathering that he and his partners would construct a fire station in Grace Bay, and while he was willing to do the building for free, other resort operators would need to chip in with its sustainability. He said that since they knew the Canadian market best, it would their main target, even though they would attempt to lure travelers from United States and Europe.
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THANK YOU, SUN
Pastor for the Example of Christ Abundant Life Ministries International and Examples of Christ Station 95.1FM (Radio Creole), Solomon Morency presents a plague to SUN Newspaper Senior Editor, Vivian Tyson, for the newspaper’s work with his ministry and station. Examples of Christ Station 95.1FM celebrated its third year in exist, which was marked by a week of meetings at the Faith Tabernacle Church along the Leeward Highway. The event climaxed with an awards presentation at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Complex on Sunday, July 15.
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
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COMMENTARY
THE RATS ARE ABANDONING THE SINKING SHIP BY ROYAL S. ROBINSON, MBE
A clear indication of this is the ramming down our The Interim Administration is proverbial throats of the clearly coming to the end of its stupid VAT Bill. In my tether, but it is trying its best to lifetime, I have never seen hold on to the vestiges of power. such vociferous opposition to It must be clear to all that when the imposition of such a tax they came here that they did not on the people of this country. have a clue as to what they were To add insult to injury, going to do once they usurped the Acting Governor, Boyle the reins of power from a duly in his press release after elected government, by the signing such an atrocious people, of the people and for the piece of legislation, had the people! First of all, they temerity to say that the cancelled all projects that had an implementation of VAT was economic benefit for Turks and above our heads and we did Caicos Islands and put nothing not understand it and that was in place to fill the void left by the reason for the opposition. their actions. Boyle is clearly out of touch The point must be with reality! Just like 60 continuously made that prior to million Frenchmen could not ROYAL ROBINSON the ouster of the Galmo be wrong, so too 3 thousand CONTRIBUTER Williams government, there was Turks and Caicos Islanders a plan of action to rescue and from every walk of life and stabilize our economy. They failed to give credence 300 businessmen of all sizes cannot be wrong about to what had been done, but they cherry-picked some VAT. aspects and used to their advantage. The real lack of understanding of VAT on the Governor Wetherill had to admit, prior to his part of CFO, Groves and that is why he would not departure, which his greatest failings were to publish the data on which he was supposed to be appreciate extent of what had to be done, and act relying on for the position that he was advocating. sooner to make the requisite changes and put the In fact, because of his “assiness” the CARTAC necessary resources to help and correct the problems. expert left for her home country and organization. What they failed to understand was that Turks and There is no expert assigned to the programme. They Caicos Islanders knew best what would work for were writing the draft bill and white paper them. No matter how bright a person might be simultaneously and one was not jelling with the coming from the outside. That is no match for local other. These people must by now understand that knowledge, garnered from real life experiences. they cannot continue to spit in our faces and we will What I must say though, is that the vast majority of believe it is fine rain! the so-called experts did not have a clue and came There were two accounting experts on the with preconceived notions and ideas that had no Advisory Council, Joe Connolly and Edith Cox. It relevance to us here. must speak volumes when both of them resigned in A well-placed expert recently told me that for protest of what was happening with respect to VAT. the first year and a half of being here, they were like What was also telling was the departure of Theo headless chickens, just spinning around haplessly. Durham, and what he said was his rationale for We could have done better by ourselves. On leaving. These persons were on the Council from its Wednesday night, I was watching a re-run of a TCI inception and it must have been totally Today programme with the guests being Ben Roberts uncomfortable for them to continue. I have said that and Alpha Gibbs. they should not have taken up the positions in the Even though they were not living here, they first place. They were of the misguided view that realized that the Interim Administration, from the they could have made a contribution and a FCO on down had no clue as to what to do to put us difference. They all realize, too late, in my books, on a course to right our ship. It was just trial and that the Interim Administration would not take on error at our expense. Every morning a different board any genuine advice that was contrary to their “expert” comes up with a “brilliant” idea to try out thinking and agenda. But better late than never! and when it is exposed to the light of day, withers From Edith’s words, it must be clear to any and dries on the vine. incoming party that forms the government after 9th These guys have not done anything to help, but November, 2012, that two bill that every effort must they are surely doing things to hinder our progress. be employed to repeal, from day one, are the VAT
EDITORIAL CARTOON
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.
bill and the CFO bill. These two bills are too intrusive, invasive and totally unnecessary. Anyone shying from the effort to do these things would not be operating in the absolute best interest of Turks and Caicos Islanders! Some of the ills that had to be corrected by the imposition of the Interim Administration have been left untouched. Alpha Gibbs clearly annunciated the fact that there was a problem with the four-legged stool. However, he said, there was an over correction to suppress the political component, while bolstering the powers of the FCO, Governor and Attorney General. The other three were equally to be blamed for what took place here. The FCO, in the person of Meg Munn said that nothing was wrong and she had overall oversight, the Governor must have been turning a blind eye and he was their man-Friday on the spot and the Attorney General, who was appointed by the FCO had to be too incompetent, when he had to give advice to the Governor before the governor signed any document! So there is a clear imbalance in the equation! As long as there is not an equality of assigning blame, this imposition is not going to go down well. People will continue to call for an inquiry on the operation of the Foreign Office, Governor’s Office and the Attorney General’s Office. In previous Commissions of Inquiries, an Attorney General was the subject of an investigation, and a Governor was called to testify before one. We are seeing here, that the neither the Governor nor the Attorney General can be inquired into of be subject to the Integrity Commission submissions like every other senior government official! That for me is designed to sweep something under the carpet as far as I am concerned. Just think about it. Someone volunteering to serve on a Statutory body is required to be intruded on and the A/G not! Who is in a position to create the greatest harm? In our context, that has happened. As previously stated, the rats have abandoned the ship. The interim Administration is thrashing about in this period of limbo to ingrain itself into our persona and daily lives. They must begin to pack their bags and leave! Let the political directorate run this country in the interest of its people. We must seriously begin to divest ourselves of the vestiges of this colonial power. We can swim by ourselves. We did not drown in the last thirty three years without any help from them. Remember that it was in 1979 that we last had Grant-in-Aid- of Development! We have been paying our freight including all of the cost of the Governors, who over time, in the main have let us down. Royal Robinson was a former Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance and Health in the Progressive National Party (PNP) Administration.
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LOCAL NEWS
JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
38 major projects lined up for TCI BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
The Turks and Caicos Islands still remains one of the most sought after places to invest, with about 38 investors lining up for the green light to start developments here. Speaking at a town hall meeting at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex on Saturday, July 18, held by the Governor’s Office and developers to announce the proposed construction of a 28-storey resort in Grace Bay, Rebecca Astwood, who is Government’s Director for Investment announced that the 38 projects were spread out on nine
Rebecca Astwood
islands. However, she told the audience that
due to confidentiality agreement between government and the developers, she was not at liberty to divulge much more information of the developments, while stressing that majority of the talk were in negotiation stages. “We actually have 38 projects on at the moment (but) due to confidentiality I don’t always come out and say what projects we do have. But I can tell you that we have 38 projects in total at the moment on nine different islands. So there are a lot of developments out there and there is a lot of other development on our outer islands, which I think is very encouraging in the economy at the moment and also for investment as a
whole,” Astwood noted. She said that as soon as meaningful progress was made on each development, the public would be notified, and in cases where there could be controversy, their opinions would be sought. “We will be slowly rolling out, as we can, when we work with the developers on what we can say. As you can understand, at the beginning of all development it is a negotiation, and once we reach that negotiation, we can come out and say, ‘yes, the government is working here, and in this case, we come out to look to your opinion,” Astwood said.
JW Marriott hotel to be built on Grace Bay The Turks and Caicos Islands will soon be home to JW Marriott, one of the of the top hotel brands in the world. Desarrollos Hotelco Turks & Caicos Ltd (“DHTCI”), a subsidiary of the Desarrollos Hotelco Group, recently acquired 11 acres on Grace Bay beach immediately to the west of Seven Stars Resort, from Sodalco Ltd, earlier this year. That will be the location for the JW Marriott, sources told The SUN. “The Desarrollos Hotelco Group is currently developing plans for the construction of a five-star European-plan hotel resort, to be managed by a major luxury hotel brand, on the Sodalco site. It is also exploring the development of two additional European-plan resort hotels, each under the auspices of a major international hotel brand, on the Mandalay site. None of these proposed developments will be materially higher than the current highest building on
Providenciales, which they understand to be the Seven Stars resort,” the developers said in a press statement. The Group's principal, Walter Stipa, has recently entered into an option agreement in relation to lot 60905/198 & 199, the site of the old Mandalay development, also in Grace Bay. Both DHTCI and Mr. Stipa said they have become aware of the proposal by another developer for the construction of a 28 storey tower development in Grace Bay. DHTCI and Mr. Stipa wish to make it clear that they are not involved in that proposal and that it will not be occurring either on the former Sodalco site or, if they exercise their option, on the Mandalay site. The Desarrollos Hotelco Group is based in Venezuela where it owns three hotels managed by Marriott. It is also the developer of a Ritz-Carlton resort on Aruba which is currently at an advanced
stage of construction. As a world-class luxury hotel brand offering a carefully orchestrated guest journey, JW Marriott prides itself on being focused on only what is truly desired and on details that are never too small to escape notice. It conveys an air of simple elegance that is welcoming, comfortable and allows experienced travelers to feel free to be themselves. Whether in centers of business or settings of scenic beauty, JW Marriott’s expanding portfolio of properties spans the globe to serve a truly worldly set of travelers. The opportunity for growth rests on JW’s differentiated offering in the luxury hotel market. The brand is elegant yet approachable – drawing in travelers who are unimpressed by extravagance. JW has the opportunity to bridge the gap between full service hotel brands and the super luxury brands at the top of the tier.
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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Page 9
JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
LOCAL NEWS
VAT Bill officially signed into law After months of stormy national debate, the Turks and Caicos Islands Valued Added Tax (VAT) Bill was signed into law by Acting Governor Patrick Boyle on Thursday July 19th 2012. This follows on from last week’s Consultative Forum where notably noone voted against the Bill, with five members voting in favour of it, with five abstentions. It was passed by the Advisory Council last week, with five members being absent. VAT will be implemented in TCI from 1 Apr 2013. According to a Government press release, the Government has agreed with several key Forum recommendations that are being dealt with either in the main VAT Ordinance or in the VAT Regulations which will be published within the next eight weeks. These include: •Publishing the full list of VAT zero-rated and exempt list in the VAT Regulations. The Government has already confirmed that fruit and vegetables, fresh meats, hurricane supplies, leases, rents, water and electricity, amongst a wide range of other items, will be zero-rated or exempt. •Clarification on how import VAT will be determined on a mixed consignment of exempt and nonexempt items, all delivered in the same shipping container, will be set out in
the VAT Regulations. •Further extending VAT exemption to: ¬ gas/propane used for cooking and lighting, along with all other fuels ¬ bulk building materials such as sand and aggregates, in order to further support the local construction industry ¬ any other essential items identified over the next eight weeks prior to finalisation of the VAT Regulations, that can be included within the exempt list, whilst still meeting overall revenue neutrality for VAT implementation ¬ The Insurance Premiums Sales Tax Ordinance will now continue in force after 1 April 2013 and insurance premiums will be treated as exempt for VAT purposes and continue to be subject to the existing 2.5% sales tax. “I hope that everyone who took part in this debate can put their differences of opinion behind them to help make the implementation of VAT as successful as possible,” said Acting Governor Patrick Boyle. “VAT implementation here is about providing our essential public services with a more predictable, regular and stable cash flow. If we can harness the energy and creativity of TCI’s businesses, I am sure that we can be successful together. “The Forum made clear that they would like to see more examples of
how VAT will affect the man or woman in the street and smaller businesses, as part of a wider education programme. We accept too that the VAT debate so far ended up being above their heads between Government and TCI's bigger businesses. We are working on this now. "The VAT Regulations are still being finalised and will be published in the next eight weeks. In addition to clarifying all the zero-rated and exempted items, they will also set out how the Government intends VAT will be applied to each industry sector, allowing plenty of time for businesses to prepare for the VAT implementation in a little over eight months time.” Regulations are the detailed rules and procedures that are supplementary to certain Ordinances and have the same compliance requirements as the main Ordinance, but are easier to update and change when required. They generally can be approved by the Minister responsible, whereas amendments to Ordinances require approval by a vote of the whole TCI House of Assembly. The effective rate of VAT to be charged in the Turks and Caicos Islands will be 11% - which is the second lowest rate in the Caribbean region, after Haiti, and is the same level as Accommodation Tax currently charged in the TCI. The VAT registration threshold for businesses not already registered for Accommodation Tax will be set at a turnover of $200,000 in annual gross sales, which is the highest threshold in the Caribbean (Antigua and Barbuda are the next highest at $110,000).
There will be approximately 400 VAT registered businesses in the TCI at the $200,000 registration level, when VAT begins next year. T he VAT registration threshold for businesses already registered for Accommodation Tax will be set at a lower threshold of $50,000 to mitigate against any loss of tax revenue from businesses with turnovers between $50,000 and $200,000. There is a deliberately large range of VAT exempt supplies, which are those goods and services that will not be directly subject to VAT: including basic food items including rice, flour, sugar, milk and eggs, chicken, fish and meat, fresh fruit and vegetables. In addition, infant supplies, personal hygiene products, hurricanes shutters, cement, steel, fuel, property leases and rents; property sales where stamp duty is applied, medical services, transportation, religious services and printed materials. There will also be a range of zero rated supplies – water, electricity, exports – which are goods and services that will be taxable, but at a VAT rate of zero per cent, allowing a VAT registrant to claim input tax credit on inputs used in making the zero rated supplies. Import duties will be generally reduced by between 10% and 15% to offset the effect of VAT being included in the cost of imports. Improved compliance arrangements being introduced: the number of revenue staff rising from 8 to at least 23, a new IT system and improved co-ordination with Customs staff.
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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
LOCAL NEWS
JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
PDM to announce At-Large candidates on Monday The People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) will announce the names of its five At-Large candidates at a Press Conference to be held on Providenciales at the Party headquarters on Monday, July 23rd. at 6:30 pm. Party Leader Oswald Skippings said that in recent meetings held over the last few days by the PDM's Candidates Committee and its National General Council, the party has selected
five candidates from a number of worthy applicants to contest the At Large or All Island constituency for the upcoming General Elections on November 9th of this year. Skippings stated that he is satisfied with the choices made for the At Large constituency as they reflect a diversity of candidates coming from throughout the islands with a variety of experience and leadership skills of persons who have a patriotic passion for their
country and people. The Leader further stated that he is confident that it is “one of the most awesome At Large teams conceivable and one that will bring home all five of the At Large seats in the upcoming General Elections”. Skippings is expected to run as an At-Large candidate as well as his deputy Sharlene Carthwright Robinson. The other names that have been bandied around as PDM At-Large candidates are businesswoman
Josephine Connolly, Sam Harvey and Derek Taylor. “The PDM is currently receiving applications for the ten constituency candidates and already a number of applications have been received. The choosing of the ten constituency candidates will only be made after the Boundaries Commission has completed its work of setting the constituency boundaries,” Skippings said.
Illegal Haitians escape as police boat stalls On Saturday July 14th, the RTCIP Airwing spotted a Haitian Sloop in TCI waters. Utilizing the Marine division vessel SEAQUEST, RTCIP Marine officers were able to intercept the Haitian Sloop a significant distance off the shores of TCI. According to a police press release, while bringing the sloop and its passengers into South Dock, SeaQuest's propellers became entangled in buoy rope approximately a mile from South Dock, which rendered the vessel inoperable.
At this time the sloop became detached from SEAQUEST and was able to make landfall in the Silly Creek area. SEAQUEST had approximately 50 illegal migrants on board when this incident occurred, these subjects, with the assistance of a local boat operator were ferried to shore and turned over to Immigration officials. An extensive land operation was undertaken by the police with the assistance of Immigration, Port Authority Security and local
citizens which resulted in approximately another 30 illegal migrants being located and detained. The police are continuing their search for the remainder of the illegal migrants believed to number approximately 30, within the communities in TCI. The Royal Turks & Caicos Islands Police are asking for members of the public to come forward should they know the whereabouts of any of these subjects, to call the police on 911 or Crimestoppers on 1-800-8477.
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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
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JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
LOCAL NEWS
Letter from Clive Stanbrook to Acting Governor Mr Patrick Boyle about the Value Added Tax Dear Acting Governor Following your recent statements on the VAT issue I thought it would be useful if I made the following points. I am glad that you appreciate our desire to assist the Government in presenting a balanced view of the merits and demerits of VAT and for that matter, the existing system based on tariff duties. I am grateful to you for reeling off a list of the meetings that have been organized to discuss how VAT was going to be implemented. It illustrates the central problem that there was no consultation as to whether VAT should be implemented. Indeed in the vast majority of those meetings the overall consensus was that there was inadequate information and that it was inappropriate to implement VAT at this time. The consequence was that since it was treated as a foregone conclusion, the general public largely abstained from attending because your spokesmen were clearly not willing to listen to them anyway. The result was that almost all your meetings had very few attendees. There are plenty of illustrations of this recorded on tape and television. I venture to warrant to you that
you would have had more attendees at the TCIBC VAT evening you have declined to attend, than you managed to achieve in the entirety of your programme. The overwhelming frustration that we and the 3000 people that signed our petition, not to mention the 300 businesses that signed the letter to you, feel is that you are hell bent on pre empting the authority of a democratically elected government. The way the VAT bill was strongarmed through the Advisory Council and then the extraordinary session in the consultative forum, where the business community was labelled as “squealing pigs” and the ordinary people of mostly Provo that had signed the petition were apparently condemned as "clueless" was unfortunate to say the very least. The process itself is a testament to the lack of adherence to principles of good governance. These were shamelessly jettisoned in the Interim Government's mad rush to try to get the VAT measures into legislation. The Advisory Council had none of their independent members there when it discussed the so called Bill. It was told by the Attorney General that the Bill they had been given
reflected the terms of the White Paper but this was not true. What was true is that the government’s VAT team was still working on the VAT bill as it was going through both the Advisory Council and the Consultative Forum. As a consequence neither the Advisory Council nor the Consultative forum either "approved" or "passed" the final Bill because additional changes were subsequently made and so far have not been submitted for their review. This breach of due process must be regarded as a stain on the reputation of the Interim Government and one that it will live with if it does not act to remedy this omission. If it is really the intention of the Interim Government to force this through, then at the very least as a matter of good governance and constitutional rectitude, the finalised VAT bill needs to be resubmitted to both the Advisory Council and the Consultative Forum. On this occasion appropriate time should be made available for the respective members to read and digest the measures before having to advise the Governor. What is clear is that your attempt to have an informative discussion
with the people of these islands has been an outright failure as even the chairperson of the Consultative Forum herself and a number of others were last week prepared to admit. In those circumstances I am very sorry that you do not feel able to take part in the VAT evening. I nevertheless hope that you will not try to rush the VAT bill into law before we conduct our meeting and in particular before the Westminster Foundation Members arrive next week. At the Forum Meeting, which I am sorry to say you did not attend, the TCIBC urged the Members of the Forum to advise that the issue of VAT should be passed on to a Government with a democratic mandate. This is scheduled to happen in less than 16 weeks. No reasons were tendered for not doing so. Even at this late stage we would be happy to hear the reasons that are driving the Interim Government to rush the VAT Bill onto the Statute Book. VAT is not being relied upon for more money. It beggars belief that this administration is so flagrantly trying to usurp and pre-empt the functions of the upcoming government elect. Yours sincerely, Clive Stanbrook, OBE QC
AMBERGRIS CAY FACILITIES LTD
POSITION AVAILABLE
Ambergris Cay Facilities Ltd is seeking a suitably qualified applicant to fill a post on Ambergris Cay on a Month to Month Basis. The available post is for a:
CARPENTER
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Tropical Imaging is looking for the following talented people
PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER
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Essential Functions: • Apply preventive maintenance • Ensure all work sites are left in a usable and safe condition • Keep work shop clean and in order • Maintain inventory of spare and repair parts and tools
Requirements - Applicants must be and or have: • At least two (2) years of experience in carpentry • A high school diploma or equivalent • Attentive to details and self-motivator • Able to understand and speak english fluently • Able to work with little or no supervision • Physically fit, dependable and hard working • In possession of clean police record and valid TCI driver’s license • Willing to reside on ambergris cay Salary: $10 - $12 per hour
Closing Date for Applications is Friday August 10th, 2012 Applications must be in writing addressed to: Ambergris Cay Facilities Ltd Unit 51, Salt Mills Plaza, Grace Bay Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands E-mail: burkley.malcolm@ambergristci.com Tel: (649)-941-3777 Fax: (649)-941-3778
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JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
Attorney General settles all cases with billionaire Salt Cay developer Mario Hoffman BY HAYDEN BOYCE PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
The Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG), through Attorney General Huw Shepheard, has reached a “confidential settlement” with Russian billionaire and Salt Cay developer Mario Hoffman, who was once at the centre of corruption allegations following the Sir Robin Auld Commission of Inquiry. A press release from the Attorney General said that after several years of claims and counterclaims, they have settled all current claims and proceedings between his office and Hoffman. Shepheard stated: “The terms of the settlement are confidential, but the parties have agreed to make public all significant terms. Mr Hoffmann and the Development Companies have transferred all the lands on Salt Cay which they own or lease to TCIG, totaling some 1,506 acres; Mr Hoffmann and the Development Companies have made a contribution to TCIG's costs; Mr Hoffmann has surrendered his Belongership and neither Mr Hoffmann nor the Development Companies admitted any wrongdoing or civil or criminal liability when entering into the settlement.” Shepheard added: "We are pleased that these disputes have now been settled, and in consequence that the position of Salt Cay is now secured with the transfer of all the respective lands on Salt Cay to the Government. The Government will be undertaking a broad consultation as to the future of Salt Cay.” Hoffmann, a wealthy Slovakian businessman, is, indirectly, the owner of over 90% of Postova Banka, a regulated Slovakian retail bank, and is the Chairman of its supervisory board of directors. Since 1997 he has been a frequent visitor to TCI, having built a house here and spending 2 to 3 months here every year. Since 2000 he has been pursuing a project to develop the island of Salt Cay through a company called DEVCO. To that end he has steadily acquired land on this island from the Government of TCI. Another Slovakian bank, J & T Banka, is a partner in this project. An important part of the project is the creation of a golf course. The TCI Government, under the leadership of its premier, the Hon Michael Misick, granted to DEVCO the land on which the golf course was to be built, on a 99 year lease at a “peppercorn” rent. In August 2006 Salt Cay Golf Club was incorporated as the company that would own and run the golf club. 50% of the shares in this company were held by Mr
Russian billionaire and Salt Cay developer Mario Hoffman
Hoffmann’s Cyprus based holding company. The other 50% were given to a holding company of which Mr Chal Misick, a brother of the Premier, was the owner. In the following year, 2007, the Hon Michael Misick successfully applied to J & T Banka for a loan, made to himself and his then wife LisaRaye McCoy, of US$ 6 million. Mr Chal Misick provided, and J & T Banka accepted, his 50% shareholding in Salt Cay Golf Club as security for this loan. Former Premier Misick, who is wanted for questioning by the SIPT, is presently living in political asylum in an unknown country. It is unclear if, as a result of the settlement with Hoffman, the allegations against Misick and his brother Chal, will still stand. Last week, the AG also dropped criminal corruption charges against billionaire developer Jak Civre, who was charged by the Helen Garlick-led Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT) with bribery in connection with the construction of the Seven Stars project. Those charges have since been dropped, purportedly because of his health and age, but after Civre paid close to US$5million to the Turks and Caicos Islands Government as part of a civil recovery settlement Meantime, the Government press release quoted Hoffmann as saying: "We have at all times maintained our innocence with respect to all allegations of misconduct and corruption made against us and determined that it was most convenient and expedient to enter into the settlement rather than continue on with the disputes in relation to Salt Cay. We are pleased to put these disputes behind us. We have maintained our innocence at all times and continue to think that our project for Salt Cay was a good one for the people of Salt Cay and the Turks and Caicos Islands. After litigating these issues for several years, in light of all mutual claims we
felt it best to settle these disputes now and move forward with our other businesses. We thank the people of Salt Cay for their trust and confidence in us." In his final report, Commissioner of Inquiry Sir Robin stated: “There is, in my view, information and evidence before the Commission suggestive of the involvement of the Hon Michael Misick in corrupt dealings in relation to the Government’s transactions with Mario Hoffmann on behalf of DEVCO and of Chal Misick’s knowing assistance and complicity in it. Whatever the value and worth of the Salt Cay development as a whole, the Commission is unable to accept the account of Mr Hoffmann in relation to the appointment of Mr Chal Misick as a partner in the project.” Sir Robin Auld also wrote: “I find that there is information of possibly corrupt and/or otherwise seriously dishonest involvement, including misfeasance in public office, of the Hon Michael Misick in relation to the Government’s
transactions with Mario Hoffmann of DEVCO for the development of Salt Cay: 1) in respect of his participation in that development with Chal Misick’s knowing assistance and complicity in it, as described above; 2) in the potential abuse of his public office by accepting lavish and disproportionate hospitality from Mario Hoffmann, including the use of private aircraft, the provision of international flights and other hospitality in the course of developing business relations between DEVCO and the Government; and 3) in potential abuse of his public office by seeking and accepting a loan of $6 million from J&T Banka when that Bank, on its own account, was in negotiation with the Government over funding and participation in the development of Salt Cay. I, therefore, recommend criminal investigation by the police or others of the possibility of corruption and/or other serious dishonesty, including misfeasance in public office, in relation to the Hon Michael Misick in respect of those matters.”
Norwani Services limited Is seeking one
(1) HOUSEMAN
to work for West Bay Club
Responsibilities : • Ensure all rooms are properly clean and neat. • Assist in all housekeeping responsibilities and maintaining of the rooms • Possess knowledge of proper cleaning supplies and chemical handling. • Should be able to work extra hours including weekends and holidays. Salary $5.00 per hour
(1) Houseman
to work for Reef Residence
Responsibilities : • Ensure all rooms are properly clean and neat. • Assist in all housekeeping responsibilities and maintaining of the rooms • Possess knowledge of proper cleaning supplies and chemical handling. • Should be able to work extra hours including weekends and holidays. Salary $5.00 per hour
ONE(1) LABOURER AND ONE (1) FOR SALES CLERK
for 3J’s Liquor/ Jeffrey Hall Labourer: • Should be hardworking, trusting worthy • Willing to work weekends and holidays • Keep the surrounding clean and in order Salary $5.00 per hour Sales Clerk: • Should be reliable. Honest, trustworthy • Possess good Customer Service Skills • Should be able to work with little or no supervision. • Friendly and gloomed Salary $5.00 per hour Norwani Property Services. Looking for a
MANAGER
to maintain, repair, care take Manage, focused on providing individual services, but provides a complete property maintenance solutions package that addresses our clients’ needs. Interested persons please contact: 9468289
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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
LOCAL NEWS
JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
Edith Cox explains her resignation from Advisory Council On the evening of Monday July 16th 2012, I wrote to His Excellency Governor Ric Todd advising him of my resignation from the Advisory Council with immediate effect and thanking him for the opportunity to serve. It was indeed a great privilege to serve the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands as a member of the Advisory Council for the last three years and I wish to thank all those persons who have supported me in this role over that period. In August 2009, when I took my oath of office, I made a commitment to the Turks and Caicos people to support decisions and give advice in the best interest of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Advisory Council was established after parts of our Constitution had been suspended, and at a time when our country was in financial crisis, unemployment was on the rise, the construction boom had collapsed, crime was on the increase, there was an influx of illegal immigrants, there was a reduction in social services and general deterioration of our physical and social infrastructure. The priority of the interim administration was to promote good governance, restore fiscal soundness and rebuild the reputation of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Initially, it was expected that the term of office would be no more than two years, but there were certain milestones which were required to be met before a new constitution was enacted to allow the return of an elected government. Again, the most challenging of these related to fiscal stability and sustainability. In this connection, various studies were done and recommendations made as to the best way of achieving this. After considering the various options, the Interim Government decided to introduce a system of Value Added Tax (VAT) to secure the government’s finances going forward. VAT is used in, and works for, many countries around the world. Although it has its merits I am not convinced that it is the best method for achieving revenue sustainability for the TCI. Our revenue generation system has proven to have worked in the past and continues to provide a steady source of income for the TCI. Strengthening of the collections process could, as suggested by the Ministry of Finance in the VAT discussions, provide even more revenues than are collected now – up to $10M has been suggested. VAT, which is new to the TCI, is considered to be extremely complex, regressive and inflationary and could have a negative impact on the cost and standard of living for residents of the Turks and Caicos. This is, of course, contrary to the Interim Government’s position. However, the government has not provided the relevant financial information to support its position as being simple, revenue-neutral and with little impact on the cost of living. From my observation, there were many disparities between the VAT White Paper, the VAT Bill and other related information coming from the Ministry of Finance. It was clear that not enough time was put into the process before drafting the legislation and presenting it for public debate. The Ministry describes it as a work in progress, in which case it should have been finalized, especially as per the provisions of the White Paper, prior to debate. The other really controversial piece of legislation which was presented to the Council was the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Bill, which I thought was unnecessary since the new draft constitution had already made provision for the safeguarding of the country’s finances through the watchdog institutions. I believe this CFO Bill would tie the hands of elected officials in carrying out the mandate given them by the Turks and Caicos people. This, I am satisfied, is not in the best interest of our country. For the reasons stated above, I do not and cannot support the implementation of VAT in its current form, or indeed the CFO Bill. Let me also state for the record that my resignation had nothing to do with any political pursuits. I want only the best for the Turks and Caicos Islands and I hope that with the enacting of the new Constitution and democratically elected government, there would be a renewed sense of purpose and a shift of efforts toward sustainable economic growth and development as well as the advancement of the Turks and Caicos people. Edith Cox
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
Clement Howell High to get new principal from overseas BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
The successor for Lloyd Fearon, outgoing principal of the Clement Howell High School is to come from outside the Turks and Caicos Islands, according to Director for Education Edgar Howell, who The SUN caught up with last week during the LIME GSAT presentation. However, Howell was not willing at the time to information concerning which country the new principal would be coming from or what gender. When asked where the person would be coming from, Howell was only prepared to offer a terse response: “I can’t share that with you.” Asked whether or not the individual was male or female, a chuckling Howell noted: “I know that there are some rumours out there (regarding where the teacher was coming from and the gender), but no, I am not willing to share that yet.” He however, told this newspaper that initial vetting and the relevant discussions had already taken place and that the new principal would ‘definitely’ be in the Turks and Caicos to take up the Clement Howell High School’s top teaching job on the first day of the new school year, which begins on September 5.
“A new principal would be brought in for the Clement Howell High School, to replace Mr. Lloyd Fearon. We have done the initial stages of sourcing that person. The person should be in the country in time for the opening of school, definitely,” Howell said. This newspaper was informed that Fearon opted not to renew his contract for the new school year, having received approximately half dozen for external offers, including from the Cayman Islands and his homeland Jamaica. He has been credited for turning around the fortunes of the Blue Hills school in a variety of areas, with academic being at the top of the list, since assuming the reins of principal in 2006. Under his watch, the Clement Howell School experienced tremendous scholastic achievements, including external examinations, with results clawing from the low to mid 80s in percentage points to shades below 90 percent. Fearon was also credited with the school’s athletics performances, having moved from last place to first and second place in the last five years at the Inter-High School Track and Field Meet. Clement Howell, this year, cleaned up the Fortis National High School Science Fair, having won the project display and art project. Last year they won the National High
Evan Harvey is seeking a
PAINTER Salary $5.50 per hour Please call 6492315361 VACANCY IN ACCOUNTS DEPARTMENT at Air Turk and Caicos Ltd.
POSITION AVAILABLE IN THE ACCOUNTS DEPARTMENT for a suitable qualified candidate with experience in processing payroll using QuickBooks. Send resume to hr@flyairtc.com.Only qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview. ATC has a vacancy for an EXPERIENCED SECRETARY with strong computer and communication skills. Data entry experience. Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Self motivator and independent thinker. Must be able to work flexible hours. Belongers only need to apply. To hr@flyairtc.com. HUMAN RESOURCES
Former Principal, Lloyd Fearon
School Spelling Bee contest, placing first also in the National Youth Week Banner Competition and the National High School Song Competition. Over the period the school turned out students with the highest Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) passes in the country. A main feature of Fearon’s principality was, on a given Friday after, was see him
parading up and down the Blue Hills main road in an attempt to prevent his students from fighting. Fearon was among a small list of community individuals to whom the Haitian Community paid tribute during a special function at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Complex recently. In presenting the award to Fearon, the members of the Haitian Community credited him for the success of their children. Fearon was also celebrated by a number of teachers across Providenciales, who staged a farewell party for him and other teachers that would be leaving the Clement Howell High School this year, at the Sailing Paradise Restaurant in Blue Hills, about two weeks ago. At the end of the Clement Howell High School graduation on July 5, a number of parents and students were not able to hold back the tears as they thank Fearon for allowing their children, some of whom had been written off as failures, to achieve academically.
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS Financial Services Commission
TENDER REQUEST FOR CONSTRUCTION SERVICES-INTERIOR REDESIGN The Financial Services Commission invites proposals from suitably qualified contractors to undertake a remodeling of the Commission’s offices. The brief scope of the works is as described below: • Remove existing partitions; • Supply of new partitions, fixtures and fittings according to the design specifications; • Installation of new partitions, fixtures, fittings and furniture according to design specifications; • Replace existing flooring with new raised surface and installation of tiles and carpeting as indicated; • Upgrading and improvement of plumbing, electrical and air conditioning systems; • The installation of permanent hurricane shutters; • Repainting of finished surfaces and the removal of debris. Interested parties may pick up a copy of the design drawings and specifications, which will be provided at a cost of $50, between the hours 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 pm Mondays to Fridays. Interested parties are required to submit their bids in writing to the Commission at its office at Unit D7/D8, Caribbean Place, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos no later than 2:00 pm July 24, 2012. Late tenders will NOT be considered under any circumstance.
Tenders must be accompanied by the following: i. Valid business licence; ii. Certificate of Good-standing from the Companies Registry (for companies) or Business Names Registration for partnerships and individuals; iii. List of personnel who will be involved in the execution of the works and their qualification and or experience; iv. Details of at least two (2) references for which similar works have been carried and v. Reference from the bankers of the interested parties. Tenders should be submitted in ordinary form to include detailed description of the service provider and setting out the timeframe for carrying out the works. The original and one copy of the Tender proposal should be placed in a sealed envelope and delivered to the Commission’s office. The envelope should be addressed to the Managing Director of the Commission and clearly marked “Tender for Construction Works”. The tender will be opened after the expiry of the deadline by a panel of officers of the Commission. The Commission does not bind itself to accept the lowest or any other tender. Financial Services Commission: 01/2012 July 10, 2012
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LOCAL NEWS
Inside one of the newly-renovated rooms
Dale Papke (left) and David Crofts seized a photo moment beside one of the pirates
Comfort Suites hotel changed to Ports of Call Resorts BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
The hotel that was once known as Comfort Suites Turks and Caicos now has a new owner and a new name. The name Ports of Call Resort Turks and Caicos has already begun to pay dividends for new owner, management and staff of the once insolvent property. One of the ideas behind the name change is to, according to its current owner, Canadian businessman, Dale Papke, in the short to medium term, is to transform what used to be a moderate hotel accommodation into a boutique resort.
Over the past year, the resort was being marketed as Comfort Suites Ports of Call Resort, but as of July 1 this year, the Comfort Suites brand was dropped. When Dale Papke – owner of a number of plazas and other properties in Canada, but specials in the construction of commercial swimming pools - was invited to the TCI by InterHealth Canada to construct its therapeutic pool at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre and also by the Atrium to build its facility as well, he fell in love with the country. And a year ago, when the old owners of the five-acre Comfort Suites and the Ports of Call plaza decided to dispose of the complex, Papke said he wasted no
TURKS AND CAICOS TOURIST BOARD
IMMEDIATE OPENING
JOB TITLE: QUALITY ASSURANCE/STATISTICAL OFFICER
SUMMARY OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: An exciting opportunity awaits you in the Turks & Caicos Tourist Board in the post of Quality Assurance/Statistical Officer. The incumbent in this position will be subject to direction from the Snr. Marketing/Public Relations Executive. The successful candidate will have overall responsibility for data entry to the Board’s Management Information System and generation of required reports particularly, producing reports through utilization of available software, and provide fundamental system administrative support for the Board’s office network and basic user support. Additionally, this position assists with market research including the procuring and processing of data and the eventual presentation of the results. The successful candidate will also have responsibility for planning and coordinating the inspections of all aspects of the tourism plants including tourist accommodations, tourism recreational sites, in conjunction with supporting and relevant TCIG agencies, as well as be able to perform any other related duties as may be required from time to time by the Tourist Board. This vacancy exists in the Providenciales office.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE The position requires a Bachelors Degree in a related field; 5 years work experience in the hospitality sector, preferably, operating in a similar capacity. Leadership and Team-work skills are also essential prerequisites for this post. SALARY: Salary is in the scale of $32,000 to $38,000 per annum. Starting salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.
For more information on this exciting employment opportunity, please contact the Chairman of the Tourist Board via E-mail: hubertafulford@gmail.com, or submit your resume with two Reference Letters and a current Police Record should be addressed to The Chairman, Turks and Caicos Tourist Board, Front Street Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands, on or before 20 July, 2012.
JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
time in registering his interest, and while not wanting to disclose the sum, for which he fetched the property, told The SUN that it was for good deal. “I actually looked to purchase a hotel in Florida, and then I started to look at the Islands and saw that this place was available,” Papke said. The hotel owner said that when he acquired the resort it was bleeding money, but after a year he managed to turn that misfortune around and is now poised to rake in a great deal of revenue, since more tourists and locals have begun to find the resort and its amenities more appealing. The name change was primarily done to appeal to a wider tourist base, since Comfort Suites in the United States is not noted for its vacation appeal, but an overnight stay for business travelers and hosting of soccer and hockey teams. He said that renaming the property Ports of Call Resort, would appeal to families wanting an inexpensive, yet attractive place to stay with various amenities and walking distance shopping. Papke said that since the acquisition of the hotel a year ago, he spent more than a million to renovate a section of it and about $300,000 on the Ports of Call Plaza. Renovation work on the hotel included, refashioning of all 40 rooms on the west wing, inclusive of installing glass showers and raised sinks; overhauling of the lobby area and the bar; the setting up of a gym; the erection of a breakfast area; the creation of hot tub; and the making of a children’s playground. He said another million would be spent this fall to renovate a number of the east wing rooms. “This fall we are going to be doing the east wing. The east wing has 60 rooms, we are going to do 30 of them, and we are going to upgrade others to a certain point. So we are going to always have 30 budgeted priced rooms available in the hotel that we call our ‘super saver’. We are going to paint them, we are going to put in new furniture and upgrade the linens. So we are going to have 30 economy rooms and 70 deluxe rooms,” Papke said. He said also that the hotel had purchased golf carts to ferry guests across the road to the beach especially, adding also that beach services, such as drinks and towels have been added to its list of amenities provided for guests. Like the hotel, the Ports of Call
Plaza has also been renovated. The exterior of the buildings has undergone makeovers, while almost $40,000 were invested in security system and lighting. And according to David Crofts, Manager for the Ports of Call Resort and Plaza, shop owners have begun to see increased tourist and local traffic at that location. Croft, a former upper management at the Beaches Chain of Hotels, was recruited by Papke to run the complex. Croft told The SUN that individuals and families looking for a valued price vacation can stay at Ports of Call Resort for substantially less than the more expensive resorts. “We are not trying to claim that we are the quality of some of these higher price resorts, but we are coming pretty close at the third of the price. And we want to be the best in this (boutique hotel) segment. If you visit Turks and Caicos Islands – Providenciales – there is less than 200 rooms for the affordable traveler, which is not even the size of one hotel,” Crofts said. The Ports of Call Plaza has undergone revamping, and is now transformed into what can be described as a pirate ship ambience. Sculptured pirates – kiddies and adults - are planted at strategic parts of the property, which has begun to serve as an attraction for visitors, who are often seen snapping pictures of and with the decorated statues. Kinds can now get their faces painted while at the revenue. In the meantime, Papke declared that there were a number of characteristics that allowed him to fall in love with Turks and Caicos Islands. “I have a lot of confidence in this island, because it is very safe, it’s clean, the beaches are wonderful. But do you know the other thing I love about this island? There is very little disparity; everybody is treated equally. I love the fact that you can go into a bar and you are sitting with a Belonger, you are sitting with your fellow worker,” Papke said. Papke said that when the new management team took over the property it notified the staff that they would not lose their jobs, and according to him, all 25 staff members were still employed at the resort. “We promised them also that we would get the occupancy up so that they would make more money by way of service taxes, tips and so on; we got that going. And we also told them we would implement a profit-sharing plan; we make some money we are going to give some back,” he said. Papke said that in searching for a manager, he looked for someone who with not just hotel management, but in fact resort management. And since he knew Crofts to have that background he hired him.
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
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JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
LOCAL NEWS
PNP kicks off election campaign under slogan ‘Dawn of a New Day’ for PNP BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
The Progressive National Party (PNP) kick-started its political campaign for the November 9 elections with a Junkanoo rush at its headquarters on Airport Road in Providenciales on Saturday, July 14. The party also unveiled its theme for the campaign, which is: ‘Dawn of a New Day’. Earlier a fun day was held for the children. The Junkanoo rush preceded the commencement of the rally, which saw party leader Dr. Rufus Ewing giving the main address. Other speakers at the event were Deputy Leader, Carlos Simons; Caretaker for North Caicos, Royal Robinson; the Party’s Media Relations Officer, Justin Missick, and Secretary General Sharon Simons. Some estimated the crowd to be a little under a thousand. Before taking the stage, Ewing, Simons, Robinson and Missick took part in the Junkanoo march, with Robinson even choosing to play one of the musical instruments. Ewing, in his speech, said that the PNP was ready more than ever to take
back the reins of the country, and rekindle the atmosphere of progress that the country enjoyed a few years ago. He said that a PNP government would bring back hope to the country with the crafting of plans to grow the economy instead of conjuring austerity measures that would plunge the country further in poverty. “This campaign is about identifying problems we are currently facing. It is about sharing our solutions and our plans to solve these many problems, to you. It is about sharing the PNP’s vision for the country, and getting to know the PNP team that will get the job done. “November 9, 2012 is election day. It is day that we say no to the Interim Administration. It is a day that we say no to regressive policies. It is indeed a day that we say no to the oppression of our people. It is a day that we choose to chart our own destiny. “This is the day that we will choose a new PNP government. A PNP government that would provide opportunities for our people; a PNP government that would empower our people; a PNP government that would ensure the advancement of our people; and a PNP Government that would
safeguard our future of our people in this country,” Ewing said. Ewing promised the sizable turnout that a PNP government would put back the country on the fast track to development and prosperity for the people that was once enjoyed a mere three and a half to four years ago. This, he said, would create opportunities for the country’s youth, working class and elderly. In the meantime, Ewing accused the Interim Administration of working overtime to bury the economy. He said that the Interim Administration failed to develop a robust and sustainable economic development plan and to market the destination overseas, while also accusing it of failing to implement policies aimed at stimulating businesses. “They have in fact implemented policies of killing businesses. They have failed to safeguard health, education and social welfare of our people, but in fact, implemented policies that threaten them. They failed to provide jobs for our people, but, in fact, created jobs for themselves and their colleagues. They have dismissed so casually hundreds of civil servants capable of serving our country, without
one ounce of empathy,” Ewing charged. Ewing added: “Your PNP government would be about growing the economy, creating jobs and providing our people with opportunity, the tools and the training and the skills to get those jobs. The PNP has a strong record in educating our people and building educational institution. And we will continue to do so, to ensure that our people maximize on their potential and capitalize on their God-given talents and gifts. Ewing pledged, if successful at the polls, to expand the early childhood education system and develop trade and hospitality programmes in high schools and community college level, so that people are educated enough to be assimilated in the job market. Ewing also said that the PNP was the leader in offering affording health care to the people of the country and on government’s pocket. And under his administration, would improve on health care delivery of past PNP administrations that would meet the needs of the populace. He said also that social programmes would be put in place so that seniors become comfortable in their twilight years.
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accordingly to promote the goodwill and team spirit essential to the smooth operation of the hotel.
VACANCIES
Parrot Cay Resort and COMO Shambhala have vacancies for the following positions: Managerial Position:
HOTEL GENERAL MANAGER
We are looking for a highly self motivated professional who possesses a keen interest in hospitality with the ability to effectively manage a well established Luxurious Five Star Resort. The successful candidate will be responsible for the following:
• Effective running of the day- to -day operation of the hotel while ensuring that all cost effective measures are enforced. • Maintain a positive and professional work attitude towards all employees and Guest. • Attending to the needs of all internal and external guests with a drive to meet and exceed expectations as well as providing top quality services to all guests while achieving guest satisfaction. • Efficiently manage all aspects of the hotel operation. • Develop and enforce new rules and policies as the need arise. • Analyzed and prepare operating and capital expense budgets for the hotel when necessary. • Maintain confidentiality at all times with a view of protecting the resort and its customers. • Look after the up keeping and maintenance of the entire resort and its Assets. Qualification and Experience:
The successful candidate must have:
• Previous General Manager experience • At least a Master Degree in Hospitality or Hotel Management • Proven Multi Island and European Training Experience • Strong F & B capabilities and a minimum of 10 years Luxurious Hotel Experience • Ability to function effectively in a multi cultural environment • Excellent communication, organizational and decision making skills. • Excellent Computer skills. • The ability to maximize profit while cutting operational cost on a daily basis • Must live on property and be willing to work long hours including Public Holidays and weekends. RESERVATION MANAGER
This position requires an experience person with and extensive background knowledge of sales strategies to maximize occupancy and room revenue. Duties are as follows:
• Assuring first-rate service levels are extended throughout the reservations process. • Developing, implementing, monitoring and controlling sales strategies. • Conducting sales strategy meetings to ensure the maximize occupancy and room revenue. • Ensuring that each decision is the best one possible to guarantee the highest revenues for the Hotel. • Load and maintain appropriate and correct rates and room inventory in all systems including the PMS, CRS and 3rd party sites. • Quote rates for sales managers based on Hotel’s revenue strategies within a timely manner. • Prepare weekly and monthly occupancy forecasts Job Requirements:
• He/She must hold a four year college degree in sales or equivalent experience preferred. • He/she must be creative and independently motivated • He/she must have excellent sales techniques • Excellent communication Skills both written and verbal FRONT DESK MANAGER:
To provide efficient and courteous service to each customer and maximize revenues by directing and coordinating the activities of the department in accordance with the standards of Parrot Cay Resort.
To act as the direct representative of the Front Office Department and to act
Duties and Responsibilities: Achieves customer satisfaction and room revenue goals by supervising the Front Office operation: • Ensures that the Front Desk is staffed appropriately by utilizing business forecasts to scheduled employees. • Oversees and participates in the prompt and courteous check –in and checkout of customers. • Addresses questions or problems pertaining to customer room accommodations and rates. • Aids in planning for meetings and special events by meeting with individual customers and conventions representatives. • Reports resolve and take appropriate action on guest complaints or problems to ensure good guest relations and safeguard of Hotel’s interest; represents the hotel in contact with the general public. • Greets all arriving VIP’s, is visible and in contact with guests in public relations capacity. • Handles all emergencies, guest and employee accidents, coordinates with appropriate departments, services and notifies management. • Prepares reports and to develop a more informative database for applicable decision-making. • Assists in preparation of annual budget; assures department operates within approved budget. • Revises daily forecast whenever status changes and informed department heads as necessary. • Coordinates billing with the Accounting Department • Conduct regular inspections of guest rooms, service areas, public areas and function rooms and communicates any deficiencies to the appropriate department so corrective action can be taken. • Responds to positive and negative comments expressed in comment cards and develop strategies to improve comment card results. Qualification and Experience
• Successful candidate is required to have exceptional leadership skills and motivation techniques • Be able to maximize employee productivity and satisfaction. • Must be able to provide on the job training to qualified employees to maximized performance for their position. • At least five years five star Resort experience as a Front Desk Manager. • At least a Bachelors Degree in Hospitality or Business or experience of equal value
Successful Applicant will require working long hours, weekends and public holidays and must be willing to reside on Parrot Cay. ROOM SERVICE MANAGER: Qualification and Experience
At least 7 yrs international five star resorts experience. Must be Computer Literate Must have knowledge of international wines and beverage with a background in food cuisine. Be able to Manage the entire Room Services Department and operations, such as revenues, cost control, to ensures and maintain high standards services at all times, minimize complaints and must have excellent leadership qualities.
Responsibilities: • Duties includes training of Room Service/Mini bar staffs and assists in supervision of restaurant manning as needed • Follow up on checklist on arrivals, in house guest and departures • Ensures that all guest billing are accurate and charge accordingly • Stock taking and ordering of all Mini bar items • Conducts daily briefings and organize monthly meetings with all room Service staffs with all room Services staffs • Prepares the schedule accordingly with emphasis on individual strength • Handle all guest complaints and ensure guest satisfaction is met Successful candidate will work long hours including weekends and Public holidays. You will be required to reside on Parrot Cay. HOTEL MANAGER: Main Duties Responsible for all day-to-day hotel operation, customer care and satisfaction, responsible for all aspects of the Hotel operations, organize staff coordination between the various hotel operations, enforcement of hotel rules and discipline, preparation of annual operating and capital expense budgets for the hotel.
Qualification and Experience: • Candidate must have minimum of 10 years experience in 5 Star resort Hotels, • Strong organizational skills, • Ability to handle multiple priorities with quick decision making excellent communication skills, • Experience in Fidelio and Micros computer systems, customer service oriented, profitability control, willing to work long hours including weekends and holidays. • Must reside on Parrot Cay
Only suitable Qualify Candidates will be contacted for an interview. All Curriculum Vitae’ should be forwarded to the Human Resources Department at the following address: Parrot Cay Resort and COMO Shambhala P.O. Box 164 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Ph: (649) 946 7788, Fax: (649) 946 7749 Email: yolander.forbes@parrotcay.como.bz or joel.richards@parrotcay.como.bz
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LOCAL NEWS
‘Washy’ calls for delay in 28-storey Grace Bay hotel construction BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
Former chief minister and hotelier Washington Misick is urging the developers of the proposed 28strorey European style hotel and conference centre on Grace Bay, Providenciales, to wait until after the elections before commencing construction, since it should be left to a local government and opposition to decide whether or not they want such an undertaking in the country at this time. Speaking at a town hall meeting arranged by the Governor’s Office and the Developers to introduce the over $200-million project to the people of Providenciales, Misick said that since the project was such a huge undertaking, it should be decided by the local populace through their elected government on whether or not they were ready for this level of development. “I like to hope that I can speak for both political parties; I think there is a will here to work with a genuine developer who wants to act in the best interest of the people of the Islands, and in fact, in the interest
of the developer, because, obviously the developer has to do well as well. We don’t expect you to come here and do anything for us fortuitously. “There is sufficient good will, and we have seen it demonstrated in the past. Once upon a time there was two storey, three story, five storey; now it is seven storey. We have a history in these Islands of the tail wagging the dog, and I think it is high time for the government of this country, whoever emerges (after the November 9 elections), knows that it is time for the people to decide what development structures of these islands are going to be,” Misick said. He added: “I would beg you (developer) to allow us the time to, first of all, elect a new government. We can continue the dialogue, but I think you should allow us the time to first elect a new government and let us pull consensus with the government and the opposition of the day, to try to see whether this is something we can accommodate and when.” Misick argued that, not because the economy was at this time doing badly meant that the people should grab at the first development proposal that tangled itself.
VACANCIES Cont’d RECREATION MANAGER
Main Duties • To report directly to the Guest Service Manager and to act in the absent of the former. • To be responsible for the daily operation of the entire recreation department, which includes water sports, powerboats maintenance and cleanliness of all water sports excursion boats. • To manage a team of recreation staff, plan and work closely with the Guest Services department in coordination with daily activities such as windsurfing, catamaran sailing. • To be responsible for staff time sheets and work schedule. • Responsible for gymnasium and maintenance of all equipments • Must be a strong swimmer and physically fit. • Be responsible for event planning for the Recreation Department • Plan and/or lead tours through our remote swamp and exotic mangroves. • Proven ability aimed at continuing to help conserving the environment. • Organizing environmental and wildlife conservation and awareness events i.e. tree planting, wildlife Qualification and Experience: • Proper communication and Marketing skills • At least 5 yrs experience as a Recreation Water Sports Manager and Ecotourism expert • At least a diploma in Hotel Management • Exceptional organizational skills • Team player • Maintain an efficient and effective administrative system in the department. • Understand department’s policies and procedures and work with your line manager to ensure all manuals are up-to-date. • Have proven knowledge and experience in the field of Ecotourism. • Be knowledgeable and entertaining, and be able to transform hard science and ancient history into accessible, interesting talks. Successful Applicants will also work long hours, weekends and Public holidays and will be required to reside on Parrot Cay.
“I agree that this economy is in freefall because of the world economy and also because of the disincentives imposed on us by the presence of HMG in the islands. And I think it is disingenuous that they want the public to participate in this when there are so many other discussions that we were not allowed to be a part of. “I think to zero in on a particular area and say ‘we are going to stick a 20-storey there because the beach is beautiful’, reminds me of a T-shirt that I saw somebody wearing once: ‘I want to join the US Army, go far away, meet exotic people and kill them’. The beach is beautiful, but will it continue to be beautiful when it has 200,000 people lying on it wall to wall? I don’t think we should dismiss your project out of hand, but I think there is a lot of work that needs to be done,” Misick said. In the meantime, the former chief minister called for a review of the Physical Planning Legislation since he believed that it was no longer servicing its purposes. “The Planning legislation as it is today is no longer relevant, as I see it in terms of the future development of these islands. I believe it is high time
for us to address the Physical Planning Legislation which would allow for increase in density. And density normally requires also an increase in height; that is a decision, I believe, should be done by an elected government. And I think the conclusion to a series of studies. I also know that is important for you (developer) to get a stamp of approval from the government and the people of this country, so you can go up complete whatever arrangements you might have started to negotiate with your other partners. I am not a huge developer, but I have been in that business. I have also been in government. I also appreciate the interest that Mr. Mungo’s family and you (Hugh McLean) have taken in these islands and your interest in investing here, I would not want to discourage you from doing so. I believe in the end though, once we have completed a complete physical review of where we want the islands to go in the future, then one of the things that we should do is a complete rezoning, which include density in certain areas, and it may very well be in Grace Bay, but it may very be somewhere else,” Misick said.
OTHER MANAGERIAL POSITIONS • Financial Controller • Asst .Spa Manager • Chief Steward/ Stewarding Manager • Executive Pastry Chef • Bar Manager • Asst. IT Manager • Asst. AC Manager • ISLAND INTEGRITY OPERATION MANAGER • Boating and Logistics Manager
Kindly contact the Human Resources Department for an in-depth detailed copy of the job description for the above positions. LINE POSITIONS:
Security Officer Commis Chef Chef de Partie Junior Sous Chef Head Baker Line Cook Wood Carver Osmosis Plant Operator Turndown Attendant Recreation Attendant Water Sports Instructor Food & Beverage Server Boat Engineer Spa Attendant Supervisor Spa Therapist Spa Attendant
Massage Therapist Night Spa Receptionist Yoga Teacher Pilates and Fitness Teacher Maintenance Technician A/C Refrigeration Technician Water Sports Instructor Gardeners Canteen Cook Kitchen Stewards Laundry Attendants Room Attendants Private Estates Attendant AC Technician Resort Butler Task force Butlers Spa Supervisor
Salaries for these positions will be paid based on qualification and experience. Please note that all application must be submitted with a valid Police Record, two reference letters from previous employers or a notary public and current educational certificates.
Only suitable Qualify Candidates will be contacted for an interview. All Curriculum Vitae’ should be forwarded to the Human Resources Department at the following address: Parrot Cay Resort and COMO Shambhala P.O. Box 164 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Ph: (649) 946 7788, Fax: (649) 946 7749 Email: yolander.forbes@parrotcay.como.bz or joel.richards@parrotcay.como.bz
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More than 400 persons from all strata of the Turks and Caicos Islands society showed up at the Gus Lightbourne Auditorium on Wednesday July 18th for a town hall meeting for the proposed 28-storey hotel. Pictured here are those who attended.
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Issue #15 The biggest obstacle we face in goal achievement is usually our minds, than anything else. _______________________________ Graduations have just ended in the Turks and Caicos Islands and I want to congratulate the graduates, teachers and parents for their hard work and great achievements. To our graduates out there, I know, as we all do, that for the past three years the environment was not very or at all conducive to your education, but you have made it this far and you can make it to the finish line. Some people have no issues with
WITH LILLIAN BOYCE
the environment they are surrounded by, and while it is said that we are products of our environment, Stepping Stones wants to encourage you to set your goals, and aim for the stars, and face your challenges defiantly. Regardless of what you are faced with daily, in spite of your status or circumstances are, believe in your goals and strive to achieve them! Students sometimes think that goals and other achievements are all about relying on physical forces and what we WANT to do. While both factors are very important, they can only get you that far. An equally important part of success is
LOCAL NEWS commitment- what we NEED to do and how determined we are to do it. You need to be committed to your goals and you must get up every day and work at it. Each time you participate in an activity; ask yourself, how important is it? Does it bring you dramatically closer to your goals? Does itcreate any real impact in your life in the long-term? Is it the ABSOLUTE BEST way to spend your time or can you be doing more high-value tasks? If not, perhaps it’s time to start finding out what you need to do to get where you want to be. It is a colossal waste of time and energy to commit to an unimportant task or an activity that you do not enjoy nor can see yourself continuing to pursue in the future. Examine your talents, look at your likes and dislikes and DECIDE. Decide what to do with the rest of your life. You are young and you are on the cusp of what can be an exciting and successful journey- that of your future. You can still make it to college for those of you who plan to attend. You can still get a job if you choose to work at this time or you can start your own
business if you want your independence right away. I beg and plead, do not allow yourself to become complacent and idle. Discard the ‘wait and see” attitude. Know you can make it happen and contribute to the change of your environment here and your country. Parents: Encourage your children. You your best; extend all the resources (whether it be time or money) that you have to create an environment for your child that will ensure that he/she flourishes. My young people: If you were born in the ‘wrong’ environment or have willingly placed yourself in one, it is up to you to move away. Step away from bad influences. Position yourself in a way you can best achieve your goal. Your are a partner in the shaping of your future and your country’s future. Take a minute. Think. What are your goals? Sit and examine your activities and environment and determine if they are Stepping Stones to the future you want.
DONT BE A VICTIM OF CRIME 1. Stay alert: Keep your mind on your surroundings, who's in front of you and who's behind you. 2. TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS. If you feel uncomfortable in a situation, leave.
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WIDE AWAKE K A T Y
I'm wide awake I'm wide awake I'm wide awake Yeah, I was in the dark I was falling hard With an open heart I'm wide awake How did I read the stars so wrong? I'm wide awake And now it's clear to me That everything you see Ain't always what it seems I'm wide awake Yeah, I was dreaming for so long [Pre-Chorus] I wish I knew then What I know now Wouldn't dive in Wouldn't bow down Gravity hurts You made it so sweet 'Til I woke up on On the concrete [Chorus] Falling from cloud 9
P E R R Y
Crashing from the high I'm letting go tonight Yeah, I'm falling from cloud 9 I'm wide awake Not losing any sleep I picked up every piece And landed on my feet I'm wide awake Need nothing to complete myself, no I'm wide awake Yeah, I am born again Outta the lion's den I don't have to pretend And it's too late The story's over now, the end [Pre-Chorus] I wish I knew then What I know now Wouldn't dive in Wouldn't bow down Gravity hurts You made it so sweet 'Til I woke up on On the concrete
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[Chorus] Falling from cloud 9 (it was out of the blue) I'm crashing from the high I'm letting go tonight (yeah, I'm letting you go) I'm falling from cloud 9 I'm wide awake Thunder rumbling Castles crumbling I'm wide awake I am trying to hold on I'm wide awake God knows that I tried Seeing the bright side I'm wide awake But I'm not blind anymore... I'm wide awake I'm wide awake [Chorus] Yeah, I'm falling from cloud 9 (it was out of the blue) I'm crashing from the high You know I'm letting go tonight (yeah, I'm letting you go) I'm falling from cloud 9 I'm wide awake I'm wide awake I'm wide awake I'm wide awake I'm wide awake
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ENTERTAINMENT
George Michael woke from coma with dierent accent British singer George Michael has revealed that he woke from his threeweek coma talking in the broad West Country accent spoken in western England. London-born Michael, who almost died of pneumonia at the end of last year, said he was unable to revert to his usual accent for two days after gaining consciousness and his family feared he would be stuck with the new one forever. "I swear this is true," the 49-yearold told London's LBC radio station. "I came out of my coma talking in this West Country accent." Michael said that as he opened his eyes, doctors asked him if he knew who he was -- to which he replied, "King of the world?" in the distinctive West Country burr. "The doctors were worried that I
George Michael
had this condition where some people wake up speaking French or some
Sage Stallone was not an addict, authorities say Authorities do not believe Sage Stallone was a drug addict, a source familiar with the case told ABC News, in part, because his weight did not indicate drug addiction. At the time of his death last Friday, Stallone was 5 feet 7 inches tall, and weighed 188 pounds, and wasn't the rail-thin figure often associated with addiction. The family of the 36-year-old actor and son of action-star Sylvester Stallone met with the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office Tuesday and expressed worry that Sage Stallone may have been overmedicated before his death. The meeting focused on the status of the investigation. The Los Angeles Police Sage Stallone Department's robbery-homicide division had been brought into the investigation, but officials said it remained primarily a coroner's investigation and that there were no signs of foul play. Sage Stallone's mother had hinted at the pain her son was in in the weeks before he died after undergoing extensive dental surgery. Sasha Czack, Sylvester Stallone's first wife, told the New York Post that her 36-year-old son had been on pain pills when he died after having had five teeth pulled. The extractions took place two weeks before he was found dead in his Los Angeles-area apartment Friday. Czack said she advised him not to get the surgery, telling the Post, "I've heard about people dying having multiple procedures done to your mouth. Do not have more than one tooth [pulled]." When the Post asked whether he was taking painkillers afterward, she said, "Wouldn't you be?" It could take weeks to learn Sage Stallone's official cause of death. A spokesman for the Los Angeles County Coroner said Sunday that the results of the 36-year-old actor's toxicology tests would not be known for approximately six weeks. An autopsy was completed Sunday. Sylvester Stallone released a new statement Monday, calling for an end to "the speculation and questionable reporting" about his son's death. "When a parent loses a child there is no greater pain," he said in a statement to TMZ. "Therefore, I am imploring people to respect my talented son's memory and feel compassion for his loving mother, Sasha. This agonizing loss will be felt for the rest of our lives. Sage was our first child and the center of our universe, and I am humbly begging for all to have my son's memory and soul left in peace." On Sunday, Sage Stallone's attorney said his client "never had any serious health problems" and no "history of drug or alcohol abuse."
language they learned at school," he said. Foreign Accent Syndrome is a rare medical condition in which people emerge from a neurological injury speaking in an entirely different accent. In some cases, they speak fluently in a language they barely know. "There's nothing wrong with a West Country accent," said the former star of the 1980s pop duo Wham!, "but it's a bit weird when you're from north London. "My sisters, who were obviously so relieved that I'd actually woken up, were just laughing away at this stand up comedy." Michael was forced to cut short his Symphonica tour last November after he was rushed to a hospital in the Austrian capital Vienna with a severe bout of pneumonia. Arriving back in London last
December, the "Careless Whisper" singer admitted it had been "touch and go" at times during the month he spent in hospital recovering from the lung infection. Speaking to BBC radio on Tuesday, he said Austrian doctors had "downplayed" his condition to avoid a "death watch kind of thing". The seriousness of his illness did not become public until after his discharge from hospital. "It's like I just dodged a bullet," he told the broadcaster, adding that he had a five-week gap in his memory from the illness and had to learn to walk again during his recovery. He has since rescheduled his tour, and has invited 1,000 staff from the Vienna hospital to one of the shows. His new single, "White Light", is about the near-death experience.
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Come and join our winning team!!!
Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages and Spa, the only 6 Diamond all inclusive property in the Caribbean is inviting applications from suitably qualified Turks and Caicos Islanders for the following vacant positions. Applicants must have a clean police record and a good command of the English language both written and spoken. In addition candidates must be able to work nights, public holidays and week-ends. The Resort thanks everyone for their interest in advance and advises that only short listed applicants will be contacted for an interview.
The Administrative Department requires:
Zone Manager Executive Assistant Manager Requirements include but are not limited to: • Experience in F&B, Rooms Division and operations • Experience in managing a boutique hotel or an operation encompassing rooms, restaurant and environs
Rooms Division Department Requires: Executive Housekeeper Assistant Executive Housekeeper Requirements include but are not limited to: • Schedules staff according to forecasted occupancy and maintains productivity standards. • Oversee the financial processes of budgeting, purchasing, payroll and inventory control. • Maintain quality standards to ensure the highest level of cleanliness • Maintain all safety and security policies. Minimum of 3 years housekeeping management The Food and Beverage Department requires:
Food and Beverage Manager Restaurant Manager Italian Restaurant Manager Requirements include but are not limited to: • Experience in managing multiple Restaurant outlets with seating of over 200 • Five (5) years relevant experience in Fine Dining, Al La Carte and Buffet The Human Resources Department requires:
Training Manager Requirements include but are not limited to: • Qualified to teach English Butler Program to certification • Knowledge of Food and beverage, Front office, Concierge (this is not exhaustive) • Ability to design training programs The Weddings Department requires: Weddings Manager Requirements include but are not limited to: • Experience managing multiple wedding retail outlets • Proven sales track record in Weddings exceeding sales targets • Ability to up and cross sell • Over 3 years managing a wedding portfolio Bar Department requires:
Bar/Beverage Manager Assistant Bar/Beverage Manager Requirements include but are not limited
to: • Three years managing more than 10 bars and their inventory o Excellent customer service skills • Knowledge of wines Spa Department requires:
Spa Manager Assistant Spa Manager Requirements include but are not limited to: • Knowledge or certification in Dermalogica Brand an assist • Ability to sell service and product • Ability to meet targets and sales quotas The salary for the positions listed above ranges from $25,000 to $65,000 per annum. The Kitchen Department requires:
Executive Sous Chef Specialty Restaurant Chef Executive Pastry Chef Assistant Executive Pastry Chef Sous chef Chef Requirements include but are not limited to: • To create recipes and production methods, as well as compile new banquets methods when required. • Oversee the training and development of staff. The Watersports Department requires:
Dive shop Manager Requirements include but are not limited to: • Experience managing a Dive shop operation • Ability to up and cross sell • PADI certification to dive • PADI certification to teach instructors • First Aid Certification
The Kids Kamp Department requires:
Pirates Island Manager Requirements include but are not limited to: o Experience in running a teens and tweens program. o Professional designation in a related children development program o Over 3 years managing a children’s operation
Rooms Division Department Requires: Concierge Manager Requirements include but are not limited to: • Three years managing or assisting with the management of two or more Concierge desk • Excellent customer service skills • Ability to multitask and give the guest more than he or she expects
Front Office Manager Assistant Front Office Manager Requirements include but are not limited to: o Three years managing two or more Concierge desk o Excellent customer service skills o Ability to multitask and give the guest more than he or she expects Laundry Manager Requirements include but are not limited to: o Physically fit o Previous experience in commercial Laundry an assist
Information Technology Department requires:
Information Systems Manager Requirements include but are not limited to: • Knowledge of a PBX system • A recognized IT professional qualification such as Degree/Advanced Diploma in IT or Computer Science & Technology • Due to the physical layout of the property, applicants should be in good physical condition. The Administrative Department requires:
Director of Guest Services Requirements include but are not limited to: • Experience in solving guest concerns to resolution including compensation • Knowledge of and a ability to interact with Rooms, Kitchen, Dining Room (this list is not exhaustive) • Five (5) years relevant experience The salary for the positions listed above ranges from $25,000 to $65,000 per annum
Applications giving full details of qualifications and experience should be sent to: mmvaughn@grp.sandals.com or Fax to: 941-4870 Attn: M McCleanVaughn The Human Resources Department Beaches Turks and Caicos P.O. Box 186 Lower Bight Road and
The Labour Commissioner Labour Department Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands and should reach not later than August 4th 2012. Otherwise, please call anytime for an appointment tel # 649-946-8000 ext 4138
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HIGHLIGHTS
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• St Lucia Senate passes VAT Act • Jamaican DJ pleads guilty to dodging US drug trial
VAT continues to be a big earner for Barbados government BRIDGETOWN, Barbados- While other Caribbean countries grapple with internal conflicts over whether or not to implement Value Added Tax (VAT) regimes, the Barbados government reaped almost a billion Barbados dollars in VAT receipts last year. According to the economic review of the first six months of 2012 released by the Central Bank of Barbados on Monday, provisional estimates for the 2011-2012 fiscal year are that VAT brought in BDS$949.6 million dollars into the Treasury. On a whole, VAT contributed BDS$764.8 million of the BDS$1.2 billion in indirect taxes taken in by government last year. And, despite the still precarious economic status of the island, it appears on track to add even more revenue to government’s coffers this year as the central bank is reporting that an estimated BDS$243.9 million in VAT receipts has been taken in up to June this year versus BDS$227.8
million over the same period in 2011. In fact, VAT receipts have been credited for giving the entire government revenue a much needed bump. “Government’s total revenue is projected to have improved by 3.4 percent, compared to the same period last year, primarily owing to a 7 percent increase in VAT receipts. On the other hand, personal tax collections were down by 5 percent, while corporate tax receipts fell by 4 percent. Expenditure on interest payments grew by 5 percent and pensions and other transfers to individuals and to public corporations rose by 20 percent and 12 percent, respectively,” stated the central bank report. This gain in VAT revenues prompted the Barbados government to retain its 2.5% increase on the VAT rate implemented almost two years ago until further notice according to Minister of Finance Christopher Sinckler in his recent national budget
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HAB Limited is seeking an experienced, professionally qualified Accountant as Group Financial Controller. Only candidates who meet the minimum requirements will be considered.
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Reporting to the CEO and Board of Directors, the individual will be responsible for preparing management reports as necessary and ensuring the finance department fulfils its responsibilities in a timely and accurate manner. Requirements • Must have at least ten years experience in the preparation of management accounts and international multi-currency consolidated accounts, budgeting, cash flow forecasts and financial analysis/reporting. • Must have ACCA, ACA or CIMA qualification. • Must be proficient in MS Office applications, Quickbooks, ProShopKeeper and Visual One resort management software. • Must have a strong understanding of IFRS, ISAs, UK GAAP and UK corporation tax legislation. • Must have a good understanding of property development, resort/strata accounting, golf course and engineering/utility operations. The remuneration for this position is circa $100,000 p.a. and is commensurate with experience. Contact Veronica Rigby via email by July 31, 2012 at ronnie@habgroup.com or by fax 649-946-5191. Suitable applicants will be contacted by email or telephoned to schedule an interview. Belongers preferred.
presentation. However, the Barbados economic picture is not looking as rosy on all fronts. The economic review reported that real growth in the first half of this year was estimated at only 0.6 percent. Also, Barbados foreign exchange reserves at the end of June stood at $1.3billion, marking a decline of $63 million since December 2011. The central bank attributed this to the fact that the international recession has slowed the inflows of foreign exchange to Barbados, and has therefore limited the prospects for growth in an economy which needs foreign exchange in order to register sustainable growth. Output in the tourism sector is estimated to have risen 1.8 percent in the first half of the year. The largest increase came from the CARICOM area, particularly Trinidad and Tobago, where arrivals grew by 35 percent, according to the report. The once booming construction industry appears to be staging a moderate revival, growing by a reported 1.3 percent due to private commercial building activity, the continuation of tourism-related projects, and public sector capital projects. The number of active companies in the international business and financial services sector increased by 3 percent, stated the report. Inflation appears to have decelerated slightly, with the projected 12-month average rate to June at about 8.6 percent, compared to 9.5 percent in
December. Inflation in the prices of food and fuel appears to have abated, since the last quarter of 2011. Unemployment continued to inch up as, in addition to the job loss in tourism, there was also some retrenchment in the manufacturing sector and non-sugar agriculture, resulting in an unemployment rate estimated at 11.8 percent at the end of March 2012, compared with an average of 11.2 percent for all of 2011. The fiscal deficit was estimated at 5.1 percent of GDP for the first three months of the 2012/13 fiscal year. All of Government’s deficit financing was sourced from the domestic market. The deficit was financed to the extent of 75 percent by commercial banks, 48 percent by the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and 54 percent by private non-bank entities, stated the report. There were no foreign public inflows during the review period and payments on external loans reduced government indebtedness by $33 million. Gross government debt as a percentage of GDP was 77 percent, down from 79 percent at the end of 2011, while net government debt was 57 percent of GDP. External debt service accounted for less than 7 percent of current account earnings, revealed the central bank. Evaluating the island’s economic prospects, the central bank acknowledged that the global environment continues to constrain prospects for a vigorous economic recovery, as the poor economic performances of the UK and the USA continue to depress the demand for Barbados’ tourism services.
UK forgives US$4million debt owed by St. Kitts The British Government last week cancelled a US$4million debt owed by the twin-island Eastern Caribbean country of St. Kitts and Nevis. The cancellation was confirmed in a letter to that country’s Prime Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas from Alan Duncan, the UK Minister in charge of the Department for International Development (DFID), the same organisation which guaranteed a US$260 million loan for up to five years for the Turks and Caicos Islands. St. Kitts, which has a population of just over 50,000, is not a British Overseas Territory. It was the last Caribbean country to gain independence from Britain, on September 19, 1983, giving it the distinction of being the smallest sovereign state in the Americas. In the letter to Douglas, the British MP said: “I am pleased to confirm the full cancellation of all of your Government’s debts to DFID with immediate effect.” Duncan, who visited the Turks and Caicos Islands last year, informed the St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister that the case for debt relief was assessed under three criteria: “sound economic management, good governance and commitment to poverty eradication.”
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CARIBBEAN NEWS
Double murder sparks emergency meeting on crimes against Chinese in Trinidad PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad – Chinese Ambassador Yang Youming has expressed shock and horror at the killing of two of his countrymen and has appealed to the Government of Trinidad and Tobago to take all necessary measures and precautions to ensure the safety of the lives of the Chinese community and their properties. The appeal came after Wu Xia Hua, 60, and her husband Yang Jiang Hua, 59, were shot during a robbery at Tiger's Chinese Restaurant and Bar in Cunupia on Thursday. Xia Hua died on the spot and Jiang Hua died hours later at hospital. The shooting deaths of the Chinese-born businesswoman and her
husband have also sparked a public outcry from Chinese nationals, who are calling on National Security Minister Jack Warner to protect them. The China Society and affiliated groups, Sun Wai Association, Toy Shan Association, Fui Tong On Association, Chinese Civic Association, Chinese Association of T&T, St Ann’s, and Chung Shan Association have scheduled an emergency meeting on Saturday to discuss mounting crimes against the Chinese community. Over 20,000 Chinese live and work in Trinidad and Tobago. President of the China Society Yung Gen Siu said too many Chinese nationals were being targeted, while
Doctor on trial for allegedly performing abortion on 12-year-old KINGSTON, Jamaica – A prominent Kingston-based consultant, who allegedly performed an abortion on a pregnant 12-year-old, appeared in the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate’s Court today to answer charges of procuring abortion and administering drugs to procure abortion. If found guilty, he could face life imprisonment. Obstetrician and gynaecologist Lloyd Goldson is said to have performed the abortion on July 4. The girl's 32-year-old mother has also been charged. The 12-year-old girl was reportedly four months pregnant when her mother took her to Goldson's practice. Goldson is said to have performed the procedure himself. Goldson and the girl’s mother were arrested under suspicion of procuring abortion by detectives from the Jamaican Constabulary's centre for the investigation of sexual offences and child abuse. The 32-year-old woman has also been charged with cruelty to a child and failure to make a report to the Children's Registry, police said. Goldson was honoured in 2009 by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists for "outstanding and distinguished work in the field of women's health". It has been argued that Jamaica should legalize abortion up to 22 weeks of pregnancy. But religious groups in the predominantly Christian country counter that abortion is morally wrong. Jamaica's Offences Against the Person Act makes it illegal for a pregnant person to attempt to procure an abortion and for a doctor, or anyone else, to perform the procedure. Breaking the law is punishable by life in prison. In 2005 the Abortion Policy Review Advisory Group was set up by Jamaica's health ministry to examine the impact of the country's abortion laws. The group found that most of the women seeking illegal abortions in Jamaica were "young, poor, unemployed and live in economically and socially deprived communities". The group recommended that abortion be legalized under certain conditions in the country, but the legislation has remained unchanged
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Secretary of the China Society Michael Lee said many of the crimes against his fellow countrymen went unreported. According to Lee, the society plans to draft a letter to Warner at Saturday’s meeting, which will outline the concerns of the Chinese community. “There is a lot of crime facing us. The local Chinese cannot speak English properly, so when they get robbed they don’t know how to deal with that. Many of them do not report the robbery. They do not know how to do the follow-up after the robbery,” Lee said, noting that there was a need to educate those in business so they would be prepared to deal with crime. Lee added that the Chinese community was also concerned about the crimes committed against everyone in Trinidad and Tobago, indicating that it was businesspeople generally who were being targeted by the criminals. He added that he did not believe that Chinese nationals were contemplating leaving the country
because of the crime situation, but added that would also be discussed at Saturday’s meeting. First vice president of Toy Shang Association, Robert Chin Ching, said crime was a scourge facing the entire world. He said a preventative system must be put in place to deal with the situation. Chin Ching denied that Chinese nationals were the specific target of criminals. “It is all business owners who must be protected because not only the Chinese are affected. Crime is a national problem,” he said. Chin Ching indicated that the Chinese nationals were not calling for special treatment. “What we want is for the minister to work with us,” he said. He noted that the Chinese were very community-oriented and agreed that language barriers and cultural differences were hindering the reporting of crimes against their community. Some nationals were thinking about closing up their businesses in protest against crime, he added.
NAVA JEWELERS LTD, dba JEWELRY, world renowned jewelers and retail sellers of signature brand jewelry and jewelry related products, with a chain of affiliated jewelry stores and outlets throughout North America, the Caribbean and Worldwide, is now accepting applications/resumes from suitably qualifies persons as:
SALES SUPERVISORS and/or ASSOCIATES
At the Company’s prestigious retail Jewelry sales and Jewelry related merchandise sales Store located at the Carnival Corporation’s Grand Turk Cruise Center, South Beach, Grand Turk. Requirements:
• A sound educational background and a minimum of five (5) years jewelry sales and general merchandising experience, in the case of Supervisors and two (2) years in the case of Associates, together with a proven and unblemished track record of employment in a highly trusted related field of employment and/or business. • A positive and disciplined attitude and aptitude toward work in a customer service oriented business. • Excellent communication, inter-personal and customer service skills. • A trustworthy, dependable and honest disposition. • Must be willing to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays and irregular cruise ship schedule. • Clean criminal record. • Unblemished employment history. • All candidates must be proficient in the English written and spoken word. Suitable candidates that do not meet the above requirements who, in the sole discretion of the Company’s management team, demonstrate a clear willingness to embrace the Company’s in-house training initiatives and established standard operating policies and procedures, may be eligible for recruitment in exceptional circumstances. Preference will be given to documented Turks and Caicos Islanders. Interested persons may submit their applications and resumes, via e-mail to: resume@effyjewelers.com, via fax to: 6499461340, or hand deliver the same to any senior member of the company’s staff at its store, commonly known as Jewelry located at Suite No. 2, Building 1, Grand Turk Cruise Center, South Beach, Grand Turk.
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CARIBBEAN NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
St Lucia Senate passes VAT Act, sticks to October 1 date CASTRIES, St. Lucia – Despite reservations among lawmakers about business readiness, operational costs and timing, the St. Lucia Senate has passed the Value Added Tax (VAT) Act, keeping the legislation on course for the revised October 1 implementation date. With the law’s assent by Governor General Dame Pearlette Louisy, St Lucia will become the last member state in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) single market but Montserrat to introduce the sales tax that is intended to replace a raft of taxes and duties. St Lucia’s VAT is to be levied at 15 per cent on goods and services and at eight per cent in hotels. There were calls from two independent senators – a doctor and a hotelier – for a further delay in VAT, and government Senator Debra Tobierre, a business owner in the south, admitted that all of her questions on the indirect tax were yet to be answered. But she supported the bill while at the same time making a call for more public information during the transition to the tax. The independent senators, Dr.
Stephen King and Berthia Parle, said they would have preferred to see a delay in the full implementation of VAT to give businesses more time to prepare. Dr King, a former chief medical officer, suggested a “testing period ” of up to three months and a “forgiving period” of at least one month “before going live”. But he argued for the use of VAT revenue to avert “a major crisis” in the country’s health services and to encourage better nutrition among St Lucians. He said that operation of the new hospital to be completed by year end and a reconstructed St. Judes Hospital in the south would require an additional 50 million EC dollars (18.5 million US dollars). Senator Parle, a veteran hotel executive, acknowledged that no member of the formal business community was opposed to the VAT. “We understand the imposition of VAT but there are serious concerns,” she said. Leader of Government Business and Minister of Home Affairs Senator Phillip La Corbiniere presented the bill
Premier ContraCting ServiCeS Seeks suitable qualified applicants to fill the following positions: LANDSCAPE TECHNICIAN X 1
Qualification and Responsibilities includes • Minimum 3 years experience in landscape maintenance • Must have good knowledge of gardening techniques and ability to apply pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers properly • Responsible for the upkeep and general look/maintenance of entire grounds • Ability to maintain and repair irrigation systems • Willingness to perform numerous laborious tasks, heavy lifting involved • Willingness to perform all other tasks in relation to general cleaning and or labor • Self motivated and industrious applicants need only apply Salary: $7.00 per hour LABORER X 8
Qualification and responsibilities includes • Minimum 3 years experience in landscape maintenance • Responsible for weeding, pruning, trimming all plants on property, sweeping • Cleaning windows, restrooms and removing of trash and solid waste • Must have good knowledge of gardening techniques and ability to apply pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers properly • Responsible for the upkeep and general look / maintenance of entire grounds • Ability to maintain and repair irrigations systems • Willingness to perform numerous laborious tasks • Willingness to perform all other tasks in relation to general cleaning ad or labor Deadline for submission of applications is July 31st 2012 Written applications along with relevant qualifications and references should be addressed to the attention of: Edith Cox Suite 200 Graceway Plaza Providenciales
from the lower house with the admission that VAT in any country would lead to both price rises and cuts for consumers. But he informed members that most food items had been placed in a “VAT-exempt food basket.” In response to concerns about the fate of prescription medicines in the VAT legislation, Senator La Corbiniere said Castries had applied to the CARICOM Secretariat for the removal of all import duties on medicines. The minister said his eight-monthold administration came to office facing “a very challenging economic period which made it even more difficult to raise revenue which is going to be needed to sustain
employment and support economic growth.” He said it is with that kind of challenge in mind that government has had to face the “inevitable implementation” of the Value Added Tax. That prompted opposition senator and former agriculture minister Ezekiel Joseph to claim that the governing St. Lucia Labour Party had changed its position on VAT, claiming that Prime Minister Kenny Anthony once referred to it “as an oppressive tax” which his party never considered it as the wisest choice for St. Lucia. The value added tax or general consumption tax is now common across CARICOM.
Jamaican DJ pleads guilty to dodging US drug trial ST. PAUL, Minn. — A popular Jamaican DJ has admitted he left the United States 10 years ago before he was to stand trial on drug charges. Glendale Goshia Gordon performs under the name Busy Signal. He pleaded guilty Thursday to one count of failure to appear in court. Sentencing guidelines recommend between 12 and 18 months in prison. His attorney, Bill Mauzy (MOW'-zee), says Goshia Gordon aka Busy Signal he'll ask for time served. A sentencing date has not been set. Gordon was charged in 2002 with two counts related to cocaine trafficking. He left Minnesota before the trial and was a fugitive until his arrest this May. He waived extradition from Jamaica only on the failure to appear charge. While those cocaine charges still exist, the U.S. doesn't currently have jurisdiction to prosecute him on those counts
Ricardo Fulford Consultant Services on behalf of his clients: TCI Waste Disposal is seeking employment for the following below: (1) Waste Collector (1) Mechanic Please visit TCI Waste Disposal in Blue Hills, Providenciales regarding employment for the above ad.
JBS Salon is seeking employment for the following: (1) Cosmetologist Ricardo Fulford Contracting for the following: (1) Painter (3) Gardener (1) Waitress Interested candidate may apply through fulfordricardo@yahoo.com. Good look to all interested applicant.
HAIRWAY TO HEAVEN BEAUTY SALON
Hairway to heaven beauty salon is seeking a suitable qualified applicant to fill the post of a
HAIRDRESSER
Job task include. • Keeping work station clean and sanitize tool such as scissors and combs • Cut, trim and shape hair pieces base on customer’s instructions bleach, dye or tint hair using applicator brush shampoo rinse, condition and dry hair and scalp • Apply artificial fingernails • Operate cash register to receive payments from customers Requirements: Must have five years experience in hairdressing Must have a certificate in cosmetology Working hours are Monday to Friday 10:00am to 7:00pm daily salary 40% commission Contact Roxie Williams on Tel: 2310944 for an interview
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
HIGHLIGHTS
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Needles found in Delta Air Lines sandwiches READ MORE ON PG 37
Gunman kills 12 at 'Dark Knight Rises' screening in Colorado A lone 24-year-old masked gunman entered a Colorado movie theater playing the new Batman movie and opened fire early Friday, killing at least 12 people and wounding 50, according to police and local media. The suspect, a white male, was found in the parking lot and did not resist arrest, CNN said. Witnesses described a chaotic scene, telling television reporters that they were overcome by noxious gas unleashed by the suspect just before he started shooting, and that they had to decide between staying on the ground, helping wounded victims or running away before the gunman was able to reload his weapon. Survivors said they were forced to run past bodies in the aisles and theater. The gunman was armed with a rifle, a shotgun and two handguns, police said. Cellphone videos show panicked moviegoers running — some screaming — and others with blood visible. The death toll was revised downward from an earlier figure of 14 dead given by police in Aurora, a suburb east of Denver. Crowds of worried family members and friends were gathering at Denverarea hospitals, hoping to hear about their loved ones. According to images broadcast by local television, some held their heads down, and rocked back and forth as they sat on the sidewalk, as the sun rose. The shooting came minutes after the 12:05 a.m. premiere showing of the widely anticipated premiere of "The Dark
Dark Knight Rises Shooting LIVE Masked Gunman Kills 12 in Batman Rampage
Knight Rises." Eyewitnesses said the gunman entered the movie theater through the emergency exit door near the front of the screen in theater No. 9 at the Century 16 in Aurora. A witness, who declined to be identified, told The Times that the gunman then "threw a canister across the theater," unleashing gas, "then started shooting." The witness said he saw a man two seats over who was shot in the head. "I can't get his image out of my head," the witness wrote in a message. The victim
was wearing a shirt bearing the face of the face of the Joker from the Batman series; after he was shot, he slumped back in his chair, his face covered in blood. Witnesses told Denver's NBC affiliate, KUSA-TV 9News, that the tall, muscular gunman , wearing a riot helmet, gas mask and dressed all in black, said nothing as he entered the theater. Initially, spectators thought he was part of the show. But witnesses described seeing him toss two canisters to the ground, and once they exploded, spectators began
Microsoft hit with first ever quarterly loss REDMOND, Wash. - Microsoft said Thursday that an accounting adjustment to reflect a weak online ad business led to its first quarterly loss in its 26 years as a public company. The software company had warned that it was taking a $6.2 billion charge because its 2007 purchase of online ad service aQuantive hasn't yielded the returns envisioned by management. The non-cash adjustment is something companies do when the value of their assets decline. Microsoft Corp. paid $6.3 billion for aQuantive, only to see rival Google Inc. expand its share of the online ad market. The charge led to a $492 million loss in the April-June quarter, or 6 cents a share. That compares with earnings of $5.9 billion, or 69 cents, a year ago. Revenue rose 4 percent to $18.06 billion.
Excluding the adjustment and the deferral of some revenue into the current quarter related to its launch of Windows 8, earnings came to 73 cents per share, beating the 62 cents per share expected by analysts polled by FactSet. Although the earnings were higher than expected, analysts were looking for higher revenue at $18.15 billion. Shares were up 65 cents, or 2.1 percent, at $31.32 in after-hours trading following the release of earnings results. Microsoft, which is based in Redmond, Washington, has never previously reported a quarterly loss since the company's initial public offering in March 1986. The aQuantive-driven setback isn't likely to faze investors, who usually focus on what lies ahead for a company instead of
ducking or running out of the theater, an escape made difficult by the blinding gas. "He looked so calm when he did it," a witness told 9News. At one point, there was a pause in the shooting, when the gunman appeared to reload his weapon, and some spectators took that opportunity to flee, witnesses told the NBC affiliate. Witnesses described scenes of gunshot victims scrambling to escape the theater. The Denver TV station played police dispatchaudio of first-responders asking operators to ask for gas masks. Some of the bullets pierced walls and traveled into the adjacent theater, No. 8, and injured people, 9News reported. A 3-month-old baby was taken to the hospital, but was not wounded by gunfire, 9News reported, quoting a hospital spokesperson. The TV station reported that the infant was checked and then released from the hospital. "This is a horrific event," Aurora police chief Daniel J. Oates told reporters during a news conference. There was no evidence of a second gunman, Oates said. The shooting came just after hundreds of theater-goers had lined up for hours, eager to see "The Dark Knight Rises," the third installment of director Christopher Nolan's Batman series. Oates said 10 people were found dead in the theater. The suspect was found outside the theater holding a rifle and a handgun, the TV station reported, quoting police.
dwelling on past mistakes. Microsoft's fortunes are tied to the October release of Windows 8, the most extreme redesign of the company's flagship operating system since 1995. Windows 8 will feature a new look that will show applications in a mosaic of tiles and boast new technology that will enable the operating system to work on touch-controlled tablet computers, as well as its traditional stronghold on desktop and laptop computers. In conjunction with Windows 8, Microsoft is planning to release its own tablet, the Surface. A revamped version of another lucrative franchise, Microsoft's Office software that bundles word processing, spreadsheet and email programs, is also in the works. Earlier this week, Microsoft previewed how the next version of Office, expected to be released next year, will work on tablet computers running on Windows 8. With Windows 8-powered devices still a few months away, some prospective PC buyers have been postponing their purchases so they can buy the latest technology from Microsoft this fall. That's contributed to a slowdown in PC sales, and revenue in Microsoft's Windows division has now dropped in five of the past seven quarters.
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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
WORLD NEWS
JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
Obama and Romney in dead heat in U.S. presidential race President Obama and Mitt Romney are effectively tied in the race for the presidency, according to a new CBS News/New York Times survey. Forty-seven percent of registered voters nationwide who lean towards a candidate back Romney, while 46 percent support the president. Four percent are undecided. The 1 percentage point difference is within the survey's three-point margin of error. Romney leads by eight points among men; the president leads by five points among women. The president's supporters are more likely to strongly back their candidate. Fifty-two percent strongly favor Mr. Obama, while just 29 percent of Romney voters strongly back the presumptive Republican nominee. More than one in three Romney voters say they are supporting Romney primarily because they dislike Mr. Obama. Only eight percent of Obama supporters say their support for the president is tied to their dislike of Romney. Republicans are more
enthusiastic than Democrats when it comes to voting in this election, though just one in three registered voters overall are more enthusiastic than they were in the past. Roughly half of Republicans say they are more enthusiastic compared to past elections - up from 36 percent in March - while just 27 percent of Democrats say they same. One in five registered voters with a candidate choice said they still might change their mind. The percentage of those willing to switch was essentially the same for both candidates. Forty-five percent of registered voters say they are paying close attention to the campaign, and another 38 percent say they are paying some attention. Seventeen percent say they are paying little or no attention. Fifty-four percent of registered voters cite the economy and jobs as "extremely" important in their presidential vote, more than any other issue. Here Romney has the edge: 49 percent of registered voters say he would do a better job
handling the economy and jobs, while 41 percent cite Mr. Obama. Romney is also seen as better on the federal budget deficit (50 percent to 36 percent), taxes (47 percent to 42 percent) and illegal immigration (46 percent to 38 percent). Mr. Obama as seen as better on foreign policy (47 percent to 40 percent) and social issues (48 percent to 37 percent). Views of the candidates on health care and terrorism were split. Thirty-eight percent of registered voters say Mr. Obama cares a lot about their needs and problems, compared to 25 percent who say the same of Romney. Registered voters were slightly more likely to say that Mr. Obama says what he believes (45 percent) than to say that Romney says what he believes (37 percent). Only 28 percent believe Mr. Obama has fulfilled his promise to deliver positive change for the country. Fifty-eight percent say he has not delivered change, while 7 percent say he has delivered change that has been bad for the country. Mr. Obama's overall approval
rating stands at 44 percent, with 46 percent disapproving. His approval rating on the economy is just 39 percent - 55 percent disapprove and his approval rating on foreign policy is 41 percent. His approval rating on the economy has dropped five points since April. Both candidates have net unfavorable ratings. Forty-eight percent of registered voters view the president unfavorably, while 36 percent view him favorably. Romney is viewed unfavorably by 36 percent and favorably by 32 percent. Nearly one in three say they do not yet have an opinion about the presumptive Republican nominee. Seven in 10 Americans say the economy is in bad shape. While 24 percent say it is getting better down from 33 percent in April - 30 percent say it is getting worse. That marks the highest percentage who say the economy is getting worse since December. Two in five Americans say they are very concerned someone in their household will lose their job.
NOTICE OF RESIGNATION AND APPOINTMENT OF RECEIVER OF TURKS LTD. THIS APPOINTMENT is made on 29 day of June 2012. BETWEEN
(1) Trinidad and Tobago Unit Trust Corporation of 82 Independence Square, Port of Spain, Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (the “Charge Holder") and ‘
(2) WILLIAM RICHARD TACON formerly of Zolfo Cooper (BVI) Limited, P.O. Box 4571, Palm Grove House, 2"° Floor, Wickhams Cay 1, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands, VG1110 (the "Outgoing Receiver") and (3) STUART CHARLES EDWARD MACKELLAR of Zolfo Cooper (BVI) Limited, P.O. Box 4571, Palm Grove House, 2“° Floor, Wickhams Cay 1, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands, VG1110 (the "Incoming Receiver") INTRODUCTION
(A) Whereas by Debenture dated 20"‘ day of August 2008 and made between (1) Turks Ltd. (a company incorporated in the Turks and Caicos Islands with Registered No: 10090) (the "Company") and (2) the Charge Holder, the Company charged to the Charge Holder by way of a fixed and floating charge its undertaking and all its other property, assets and rights whatsoever and wheresoever present and future as security for its obligations and liabilities to the Charge Holder (the "Debenture"). (B) Whereas events happened upon which the power to appoint a receiver under the Debenture became exercisable.
(C) Whereas pursuant to a notice of appointment dated 15 October 2009 and made between the Charge Holder and the Outgoing
Receiver the Charge Holder appointed the Outgoing Receiver as receiver.
(D) The Outgoing Receiver accepted his appointment as receiver on 15 October 2009. (E) The Outgoing Receiver is to resign as receiver with effect from the date of this notice.
(F) The Charge Holder is entitled to appoint a replacement receiver pursuant to the terms of the Debenture.
AGREED TERMS 1. The Charge Holder in pursuance of the power granted to it by the Debenture and of every power enabling it to do so HEREBY APPOINTS the Incoming Receiver to be the receiver of the Company’s undertakings and all its other property, assets and rights whatsoever and wheresoever present and future upon the terms of and with all the powers given by the Debenture and by law.
(2. The Incoming Receiver shall be agent of the Company, which alone shall be responsible for his acts and defaults. 3. This notice shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Turks & Caicos Islands law. AS WITNESS this appointment has been executed for and on behalf of the Charge Holder.
SIGNED BY Eutrice Carrington for and on behalf of TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO UNIT TRUST CORPORATION
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
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JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
WORLD NEWS
Trayvon Martin’s parents reject George Zimmerman’s apology The parents of Trayvon Martin say they have a hard time accepting George Zimmerman's nationally televised apology. Last night, in his first interview since killing the unarmed 17-year-old, the former neighborhood watch volunteer said the shooting death must have been part of "God's plan" and that he prays for the Martin family daily. "I simply really don't know what God George Zimmerman is worshipping because there's no way that the God that I serve had in his plans for George Zimmerman to murder my son," Tracy Martin, the teen's dad told CBS News. Zimmerman, a licensed gun carrier in
Florida, shot and killed Martin in February during a confrontation in the gated neighborhood where Zimmerman lived and Martin was visiting a family friend. Zimmerman said he thought Martin looked suspicious and was following him so he could give police his whereabouts. But before officers arrived, Zimmerman, 28, says the black teen physically attacked him and that he was forced to shoot in self defense. The incident has polarized the country, with some calling the killing a hate crime. "I'm not a racist and I'm not a murderer," said Zimmerman, who is white and Hispanic. Zimmerman maintained his innocence during the
Fox News interview, but did ask for forgiveness for any pain he's caused. "I want to tell everyone, my wife, my family, my parents, my grandmother, the Martins, the city of Sanford and America, that I'm sorry that this happened," he said, staring into the camera lens. "I hate to think that because of this incident, because of my actions, it's polarized and divided America. And I'm truly sorry." Sybrina Fulton, Trayvon's mother, told CBS News she doesn't believe what he says. "He also said that he doesn't regret anything that he did that night," Fulton said. "I don't think God would have him, in his plan, to murder an innocent child."
Delta Air Lines sandwiches containing needles prompt FBI to open international investigation ATLANTA - The FBI is investigating the discovery of what appeared to be sewing needles in turkey sandwiches on Delta Air Lines flights from Amsterdam to the United States. CBS News senior correspondent John Miller, a former assistant director of the FBI, reported on "CBS This Morning" Tuesday that the case has been assigned to the FBI office in Atlanta. Agents there are working with the FBI's legal attache in Amsterdam to coordinate with Dutch authorities. The FBI can analyze the needles recovered from the sandwiches to try to find out their manufacturer, Miller reports. The airline said the needles were found in five sandwiches on Sunday. One passenger on a flight to Minneapolis was injured, according to Delta spokeswoman Kristin Baur. The other needles were on two flights to
Half a dozen needles have now been found in sandwiches on four separate Delta flights.
Atlanta and one to Seattle. Jim Tonjes of Plymouth, Minn., told the Minneapolis Star Tribune that he felt a sharp poke in his mouth when he bit into his sandwich. He figured it
was a toothpick, but instead pulled out a 1-inch needle that punctured the roof of his mouth. Tonjes was interviewed by the FBI and spent several hours in a hospital emergency room.
Rebels claim Syria borders AMMAN/BEIRUT - Rebels battled deep into Damascus and seized control of parts of Syria's borders on Thursday, pressing on with their advance after the assassination of Bashar al-Assad's top security officials brought their 16month uprising to a head. Government forces unleashed helicopter gunships and artillery against their own capital. Damascus residents told of buildings in flames and corpses in the streets. Diplomatic efforts - clearly overtaken by events on the ground - collapsed in disarray when Russia and China vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution that would have imposed sanctions on Syrian authorities unless they stop using heavy weapons. Washington said the Council had "failed utterly". The next few days will be critical in determining whether Assad's government can recover from the blow of Wednesday's bombing, which wiped out much of Assad's command structure and wrecked his inner circle's aura of invulnerability. The attack on a crisis meeting inside a security headquarters killed Assad's powerful brother-in-law, his defence minister and a top general. The head of intelligence and the interior minister were wounded and their condition is not clear. Assad's own failure to appear in public for more than 24 hours - he was finally shown on television on Thursday afternoon swearing in a replacement for his slain defence minister - added to the sense of his power evaporating. Rebels claimed control of the main border crossing with
Iraq on the Baghdad-Damascus highway at Abu Kamal - one of the most important trade routes in the Middle East - and at least two crossings with Turkey, at Jarablus and Bab alHawa. Lorries were queued up at Bab al-Hawa, a major commercial crossing, shut while battles raged nearby. Footage which rebels said was filmed at the checkpoint showed them climbing onto rooftops and tearing up a poster of Assad. "The crossing is under our control. They withdrew their armored vehicles," said a rebel fighter who would only be identified as Ali, being treated for wounds on the Turkish side. Damascus residents said a heavy onslaught of security force shelling and firing from helicopters went on through the night and continued on Thursday. Some reported explosions in the capital's troubled northeastern and southern districts. "Everyone is looking now at how well Assad can maintain the command structure. The killings yesterday were a huge blow, but not fatal," said a Western diplomat following Syria. International diplomacy has been ineffective throughout the crisis, with Western countries condemning Assad but lacking the stomach for the sort of robust intervention that saw NATO bombers help blast Libya's Muammar Gaddafi from power last year.
Jack Drogt of St. Paul told the newspaper he and his 16-year-old son, William, also found sewing needles in their sandwiches on the flight to Minneapolis. The sandwiches were made in the Amsterdam kitchen of catering company Gate Gourmet, and were to be served to business class passengers on Delta flights. The Transportation Security Administration said it's closely monitoring the situation. The agency said it immediately notified U.S. carriers with flights from Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport. Police there said they still do not know how the needles got into the sandwiches but are investigating. Airport Police spokesman Robert van Kapel said Tuesday Dutch detectives are working on the case together with the airline and U.S. law enforcement authorities. Baur said flight attendants stopped serving the sandwiches as soon as the needle was discovered. Messages went out to other flights en route from Amsterdam. After the needles were found, passengers got pizza instead. Baur said security for its meal production has been increased and it is using more prepackaged food while the investigation continues. "Delta is taking this matter extremely seriously and is cooperating with local and federal authorities who are investigating the incident. Delta has taken immediate action with our in-flight caterer at Amsterdam to ensure the safety and quality of the food we provide onboard our aircraft," the airline said in a written statement. Gate Gourmet spokeswoman Christina Ulosevich said the company has gotten no reports of similar incidents on any of the other airlines it serves out of Amsterdam. She said the company did not yet know how the needles got into the sandwiches. "We take this matter very seriously, and we have launched our own full-scale investigation," the company said in a statement, adding it was "heightening our already stringent safety and security procedures, to prevent any recurrence.
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CHEF POSITIONS NOW AVAILABLE
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
HAB MANAGEMENT LTD HAB Management Limited is a seeking suitably qualified individual to fill the following opening. Only candidates who meet the minimum requirements will be considered.
BNC Consulting Group is currently seeking qualified individuals to fill chef openings at all levels.
ENTRY LEVEL COOKS (3) CHEF DE PARTIE (2) SOUS CHEF (1)
Candidates must be hardworking and dependable. A strong work ethic and keen interest in culinary arts is essential. Fine dining experience within a five-star resort environment is a plus. The ideal candidates will be team players who enjoy working in a fast-paced environment. Responsibilities may include, but not be limited to:
• Assisting in the creation and planning of menus and specials • Preparing, seasoning and cooking salads, soups, fish, meats, vegetables and other foods • Participating in the preparation, cooking and baking of menu items • Properly displaying and presenting food as designated by the Executive Chef • Properly receiving, storing and rotating food products in compliance with HACCP standards • Maintaining the cleanliness and organization of all kitchen and food and beverage areas • Monitoring and controlling the maintenance and sanitation of kitchen equipment • Physical ability to lift, carry, move, push or pull heavy items up to 100 lbs • Working in confined spaces with extreme temperatures (hot or cold) Submit resume to Bridgette Thomas at bthomas@bnccgroup.com for immediate consideration or call 332-2565 for additional information. Candidates must possess relevant skills and experience for consideration. A clean police record and stable work history is required. Closing Date: Open until filled ONLY QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED
PROVO GOLF CLUB Provo Golf Club is seeking a suitably qualified individual to fill the following opening. Only candidates who meet the minimum requirements will be considered.
GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Plan and schedule maintenance processes and procedures. • Instruct, train and direct staff in golf course maintenance. • Oversees fertilizer, chemical and pesticide applications. • Run irrigation systems, including daily setup and maintenance. • Proven organizational skills to maintain accurate records of all processes. • Responsible for the safe operation, storage and effective use of all equipment. • Responsible for the proper use, storage and preservation of all associated materials, supplies and assigned equipment. REQUIREMENTS • Must have a Bachelor’s degree or Associate degree in Agronomy or Horticulture plus a minimum of six years experience on a golf course with three years experience as an Assistant Golf Superintendent. • Must have at least a Class C Membership with the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). • Must have advance knowledge of agronomy and turf grass management practices. • Require extensive knowledge of golf course maintenance. • Requires knowledge of landscape construction and materials. • Ability to analyze data and prepare reports. • Strong computer skills using Microsoft Word and Excel • Must have a thorough understanding of the game of golf. The salary range for this position is $60,000 - $80,000 per annum, commensurate with experience, training and qualification. Interested applicants should contact Veronica Rigby via email by July 30, 2012 at ronnie@habgroup.com or by fax 649-946-5191. Only persons selected for an interview will be contacted by email or telephone to schedule an interview.
SECURITY GUARD
Job Description Responsible for implementing and enforcing security measures in order to provide maximum protection to the lives and properties of the company, employees and guests. Responsible to guard, patrol and monitor company premises to prevent theft, violence or infractions of rules. Main Duties • Maintaining safety and security for all guests and employees. • Must be trained in self defense and security operations. • Document reports of daily activities and irregularities that occur on premises in logbook. • Inspect and adjust security systems, equipment and machinery to ensure operational use. • Responding quickly to emergency situation. Requirements • Must have five years or more experience as a Security Officer. Law enforcement/ security experience preferred. • Excellent oral and written communication skills are required. • Must be computer literate and have working knowledge of CCTV systems and software. • Must be willing to work a variety of day/night and weekend shifts. • Able to be on feet for long periods of time. • Excellent people skills. • Professional, neat, clean cut appearance is necessary. • Clean driver’s license. The salary for this position is $14,400.00 per annum, commensurate with experience, training and education. Interested applicants should email resumes by July 9, 2012 to ronnie@habgroup.com or submit by fax 649-946-5191. Only persons selected for an interview will be contacted by email or telephone to schedule an interview.
Graceway IGA Supermarket
Wine Specialist
is looking to fill the following positions:
Job Summary: This position is responsible to promote and demonstrate fine wine knowledge throughout the island to increase sales among high profile local restaurants and retail accounts / customers while including managing logistics of wine shipments and consolidations in various wine worldwide countries. Requirements include: • Extensive education in wine studies is essential • Experience in whole sale distribution and retail of wines and spirits is essential • At least 5 – 7 years experience in international procurement of wines and spirits including working at the consulting level with large distributors is required • Previous years of retail, grocery management experience will be an added plus • Must be able to show strong background and understanding of French, Spanish and Italian wines
Domestic Worker X 1
Pay will commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Applicant must be willing to work holidays and weekends Salary is $6.50 per hour Deadline for submission of applicants is July 31st 2012 Submit to: Graceway IGA Supermarket main office complex or email: hr@gracewayiga.com Please Note: Only short-listed applicants will be contacted to attend interviews.
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Page 39
JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
HIGHLIGHTS
Get ready to pay sales tax on Amazon READ MORE ON PG 40
HSBC bank careless in preventing money laundering by drug cartels NEW YORK -- Global banking giant HSBC failed to prevent billions of dollars worth of money transfers that Senate investigators believe were linked to drug cartels and terrorist groups, according to a report released Monday. The Senate's Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations said London-based HSBC failed to review thousands of suspicious transactions and properly vet clients over the past decade. Among other issues, the report notes that in 2007 and 2008, HSBC's Mexico unit shipped $7 billion in cash to the bank's U.S. affiliate, a volume of shipments that law enforcement officials said could reach that size "only if they included illegal drug proceeds." HSBC Mexico had a number of
high-profile clients linked to drug trafficking, the report says, as well as "a huge backlog of accounts marked for closure due to suspicious activity, but whose closures were delayed." The report also found that HSBC worked extensively with Saudi Arabia's Al Rajhi Bank, some owners of which have been linked to terrorism financing, according to a CIA report quoted by the subcommittee. Some evidence suggests Al Rajhi's "key founder" was "an early financial benefactor of al Qaeda," the report says. HSBC's U.S. affiliate supplied Al Rajhi with nearly $1 billion worth of U.S. banknotes up to 2010, and also worked with two banks in Bangladesh that some evidence links to terrorism financing as well. "From an oversight perspective,
Apple must run 'Samsung did not copy iPad' sds
The iPad
LONDON- Apple has been instructed by a British judge to run ads saying that Samsung did not copy its design for the iPad in the latest twist in the ongoing patent battles between the two tech giants, according to Bloomberg. Judge Birss, who ruled last week that Samsung did not infringe Apple's designs because its Galaxy Tab tablets were not "as cool" as the U.S. company's iPad, said Apple should publish a notice on its website and in British newspapers to correct any impression that the South Korean company copied Apple, Bloomberg said. The notice, which is in effect an advertisement for Samsung, should remain on Apple's website for at least six months, the report said. The judge, however, rejected Samsung's request that Apple be forbidden from continuing to claim that its design rights had been infringed, saying that Apple was entitled to hold the opinion, the news agency said. Samsung said in a statement after the hearing: "Should Apple continue to make excessive legal claims based on such generic designs, innovation in the industry could be harmed and consumer choice unduly limited." Apple declined to comment on Judge Birss's instruction.
the failure of accountability here is dramatic," said Sen. Carl Levin, chairman of the subcommittee. The Department of Justice is also investigating HSBC over the issue. A DOJ spokeswoman declined to comment, citing the ongoing probe. The report also said HSBC's U.S. affiliate handled nearly 25,000 transactions involving Iran between 2001 and 2007, despite U.S. sanctions against the country. Other HSBC affiliates making transfers to the U.S. frequently stripped information from the transactions that linked them to Iran in order to evade scrutiny. Some HSBC executives in the U.S. were aware of this practice as far back as 2001, the report says. An outside review commissioned by HSBC found nearly $20 billion worth of transactions between 2001 and 2007 that may have been subject to U.S. sanctions. The report came ahead of a hearing by the Senate subcommittee Tuesday that featured testimony from HSBC executives and government officials from the Treasury Department, the Department of Homeland Security and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. Regulators also came in for criticism in the report -- in particular, the OCC, HSBC's primary overseer. The subcommittee said the OCC allowed HSBC's anti-money laundering deficiencies "to fester for years" before finally taking action in 2010, requiring the bank to improve its internal controls. "Its record of enforcement at HSBC resembles a lapdog rather than the watchdog that we sorely need," Sen. Tom Coburn, the subcommittee's ranking member, said. HSBC said in a statement ahead of the hearing that it "takes compliance with the law, wherever it operates, very seriously."
"We will acknowledge that, in the past, we have sometimes failed to meet the standards that regulators and customers expect," HSBC said. "We believe that this case history will provide important lessons for the whole industry in seeking to prevent illicit actors entering the global financial system." The bank added that it has beefed up its compliance efforts over the past year, increasing its due diligence requirements for affiliates and devoting more resources to the issue. Speaking at the hearing, HSBC compliance head David Bagley said he planned to step down as part of the reform process, although he will remain at the firm in a different capacity. HSBC isn't the first large bank to face scrutiny over money laundering issues from U.S. regulators and law enforcement. Last month, Dutch bank ING agreed to pay a $619 million penalty for moving billions of dollars through the U.S. financial system at the behest of Cuban and Iranian clients, acts that violated economic sanctions. In 2010, the former Wachovia Bank paid $160 million to resolve allegations that it lacked robust antimoney laundering measures, allowing Mexican cartels to launder millions of dollars worth of drug proceeds. Wells Fargo bought Wachovia in 2008. HSBC is also cooperating with investigations into alleged manipulation of the London Interbank Offered Rate, or Libor, though it is not clear whether the bank will be singled out for punishment. Last month, British bank Barclays reached a $453 million settlement on the issue with U.S. and U.K. regulators, and firms including Deutsche Bank, Credit Suisse, Citigroup and JPMorgan) are also being investigated
Barbers
Sharper Image is seeking Salary $5 per hour Please contact 232 6695
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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
BUSINESS AND TECHNOLOGY
JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
Get ready to pay sales tax on Amazon NEW YORK -- Attention Amazon shoppers: Be prepared to pay more when you purchase goods, depending on where you live. The online retail giant will start charging sales tax in eight additional states in coming years, starting with California and Pennsylvania in September, as it puts down physical roots in more places. Amazon already collects sales tax in six states. That means many customers will have to dig a little deeper into their pockets when buying on the Internet, which some people see as a refuge from sales taxes. California residents, for instance, might have to pay as much as $9.75 in additional levies on a $100 purchase, depending on where they live in the state. Customers in Philadelphia, meanwhile, would find an additional $8 tax on their bill. Collecting sales taxes is a turnaround for Amazon, which had long fought states' attempts to force e-tailers to deal with such levies. States estimate they lose $23 billion in annual sales taxes, some $11.5 billion of it from online purchases, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Brick-and-mortar retailers have also pushed hard to have Amazon and other web merchants collect sales taxes, which the physical stores say level the playing field.
Amazon instead sought to have Congress settle the issue. It is backing the Marketplace Fairness Act, which would allow states to collect sales tax from out-of-state businesses. "Amazon believes the sales tax issue needs to be resolved at the federal level and we're actively working with the
states, retailers and Congress to get federal legislation passed," said Scott Stanzel, an Amazon spokesman. Other online merchants, however, oppose the legislation. The consortium, called NetChoice, includes Yahoo, AOL, Facebook, Oracle, Overstock.com, NewsCorp, IAC, Expedia and eBay.
Amazon is also expanding its physical presence across the United States, building warehouses and distribution centers. The company is looking to offer same-day delivery to more customers, according to a report in the Financial Times. Amazon declined to comment on the matter.
A Yahoo search calls up a chief from Google Marissa Mayer, one of the top executives at has struggled to create a distinct strategy, Google, will be the next chief of Yahoo, even though its audience remains among the making her one of the most prominent largest on the Internet. Now, the company is women in Silicon Valley and corporate moving to lay off thousands of employees, America. in the face of slumping profits and a The appointment of Ms. Mayer is lackluster stock. consider a coup for Yahoo, which has The big question is whether Ms. Mayer struggled in recent years to attract top talent — or anyone — can help Yahoo regain its in its battle with competitors. One of the former stature. few public faces of Google, Ms. Mayer, 37, “It’s a very interesting departure and a has been responsible for the look and feel very interesting choice,” said Martin Sorrell, of some of the search company’s most chief executive of WPP, the giant advertising popular products. agency. “She comes with a formidable Marissa Mayer Despite her background, Ms. Mayer — reputation, but we’ll see how she analyzes it who will be Yahoo’s fifth chief executive in less than a all.” year, two of them interim — will face a daunting With her appointment as the president and chief challenge. executive of Yahoo on Monday, Ms. Mayer joins a shortlist A pioneering Internet company that helped shape the of women in the technology industry to hold the top spot. industry in the 1990s, Yahoo is trying to remain relevant The elite club includes Meg Whitman, the chief executive after failing to adapt to changing innovations like of Hewlett-Packard, and Virginia M. Rometty, the head of sophisticated search technology and social media tools. As I.B.M. Another senior woman in Silicon Valley, Sheryl Google and Facebook have emerged as Web giants, Yahoo Sandberg, is Facebook’s chief operating officer.
NOTICE OF RESIGNATION AND APPOINTMENT OF RECEIVER OF TURKS DEVELOPMENT LP. THIS APPOINTMENT is made on 29 day of June 2012. BETWEEN
(1) Trinidad and Tobago Unit Trust Corporation of 82 Independence Square, Port of Spain, Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (the "Charge Holder") and .
(2) WILLIAM RICHARD TACON formerly of Zolfo Cooper (BVI) Limited, P.O. Box 4571, Palm Grove House, 2nd Floor, Wickhams Cay 1, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands, VG1110 (the "Outgoing Receiver") and (3) STUART CHARLES EDWARD MACKELLAR of Zolfo Cooper (BVI) Limited, P.O. Box 4571, Palm Grove House, 2"° Floor, Wickhams Cay 1, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands, VG1110 (the "Incoming Receiver") INTRODUCTION
(A) Whereas by Debenture dated 20"‘ day of August 2008 and made between (1) Turks Development LP (a limited partnership established pursuant to Section 7(1) of the Limited Partnership Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands) (the "Company") and
(2) the Charge Holder, the Company charged to the Charge Holder by way of a fixed and floating charge its undertaking and all its other property, assets and rights whatsoever and wheresoever present and future as security for its obligations and liabilities to the Charge Holder (the "Debenture"). (B) Whereas events happened upon which the power to appoint a
receiver under the Debenture became exercisable (C) Whereas pursuant to a notice of appointment dated 15 October 2009 and made between the Charge Holder and the Outgoing Receiver the Charge Holder appointed the Outgoing Receiver as receiver. (D) The Outgoing Receiver accepted his appointment as receiver on 15 October 2009. (E) The Outgoing Receiver is to resign as receiver with effect from the date of this notice. (F) The Charge Holder is entitled to appoint a replacement receiver pursuant to the terms of the Debenture. AGREED TERMS
1. The Charge Holder in pursuance of the power granted to it by the Debenture and of every power enabling it to do so HEREBY APPOINTS the Incoming Receiver to be the receiver of the Company’s undertakings and all its other property, assets and rights whatsoever and wheresoever present and future upon the terms of and with all the powers given by the Debenture and by law.
2. The Incoming Receiver shall be agent of the Company, which alone shall be responsible for his acts and defaults. 3. This notice shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Turks & Caicos Islands law.
AS WITNESS this appointment has been executed for and on behalf of the Charge Holder. SIGNED BY Eutrice Carrington for and on behalf of TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO UNIT TRUST CORPORATION
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
HIGHLIGHTS
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Road to the London Olympic Trials 2012 RREAD MORE ON PAGE 42
TCI Girls impressive in Football Festival A busy summer of football continued for the TCIFA last week as they hosted female teams from the USA in the form of Bethesda SC and Central Pasco United Soccer Association (CPUSA). The Girls International Festival of football was another success for the association as their teams performed well against very strong competition - Bethesda are ranked in the top four in the USA with four of their team involved in the USA national team set up. In the opening game the TCI U15 Girls lost 5-0 to Bethesda SC. Clearly suffering from nerves the young girls found the first half hard going and were trailing 4-0 at half time. However, in the second half they took the game to their more experienced opponents and created several chances with Kadine Delphine and Jenny Fleurenvil coming close to scoring. Head Coach Mike Calabretta who coaches at Georgetown University was impressed with the young team saying “they really gave us a tough game, they pressed us hard and forced us into making errors and they played some attractive football. They have the makings of a great team as they are fearless and they never give up”. Guerline Hall gave the performance of her life and drew loud applause from the appreciative crowd. In the second game of the opening day, the TCI Select team defeated CPUSA by a 1-0. TCI dominated the game with the likes of Tina Hinds, Jacinda Alfrena and Sarah Cenary, causing the opposition problems. But despite having many chances they could not break the deadlock until 10 minutes from time, when Hinds’ good work on the right wing saw the ball break loose to Cenary who scored from the edge of the penalty box. Technical Director Matthew Green was pleased with the opening days’ games saying: “Our young girls showed us exactly what team work is all about. They worked hard for each other, never gave up and played with passion and pride.” The second days’ game the TCI U15 Team were beaten 2-0 by Bethesda, in a result that did not reflect the nature of play. The U15 made a great start to the game and dominated possession in the opening exchanges. Kadine Delphin led the team well and created several opportunities for her team mates. Yarielca De La Cruz almost gave the team the lead when her long range shot forced the CPUSA keeper into an acrobatic save. De La Cruz then saw her expertly struck free kick come back off the cross bar. The TCI girls continued to press hard but a breakaway goal saw
TCI Select Team
TCI U15 Team
Action from one of the games
CPUSA score against the run of play. In the second half the U15’s fought hard for an equalizer as Delphin and Jenny Fleurenvil used their pace and skill to good effect. However, in the dying minutes of the game as the home team pushed up for an equalizer, they were caught on the break again and, a long range effort managed to evade the goalkeeper’s
dive. Green was disappointed that the girls did not get the result they deserved but was full of praise for the young team. “They gave it their all today, you cannot fault their effort. They are playing against girls that have played the game since they could walk, our girls have mostly been playing for just a year or two,”
Green said. The second game, Bethesda FC registered a 4-0 win against the TCI Select Team. It was promised to be a close game but early defensive lapses gave Bethesda SC a 3-0 lead before halftime. The home side started well with Christina Hinds almost finding the back of the net in the opening minute. However, poor marking in defence gave Bethesda too much time on the ball. Some tough talking at half time by Green and Ian Hurdle saw the girls respond well in the second half. Jacinda Alfrena put in another spirited performance and Lilli Fenelus did a great job in midfield restricting the opportunities for the American team. However, they conceded one goal in the bottom half. The final day of play saw the TCI Select Team edging the TCI U15 Girls 2-0 in controversial fashion. Yarileny opened the scoring for the U15, but captain Pekiera Brooks drew level for the Select Team. The game was however decided by a controversial goal scored by Brooks. In the final game of the festival, Bethesda SC hammered CPUSA 9-0 . The margin of victory was clear indication of the competitiveness of the TCI teams. Trophies were handed out following the games to all participants. Several MVP awards were also given to the star performers during the week. Amelie Speer was voted MVP for the Select team and Kadine Delphin received the MVP award for the U15 Team. The overall MVP went to 11 year old Guerline Hall who impressed everyone with her skills and commitment. Chris Bryan summed up the event by thanking all the people that made the event such a success. Both visiting head coaches echoed Bryan ’s words, commenting on their enjoyment of the trip and the progress of TCI football. Mike Calabreta ( Bethesda ) said “the level of play in this country continues to rise at a fast rate. The girls have moved on a great deal since I was last here in 2012 and it is clear that they have a love of the game”. Mark Rodrigues (CPUSA) was impressed with the overall set up. “The TCIFA is one of the best associations in the region. They have dedicated and highly skilled staff, excellent coaches and very enthusiastic players who are improving all the time. It was a pleasure to be here and we will certainly be coming back in the near future.” MSC Boca will be visiting the islands in August to play against the U14 Center of Excellence Boys.
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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
LOCAL SPORTS
JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
U17 TCI Academy beat Rockledge Steelers 502 The U17 TCIFA Academy Boys rounded off a week of exciting football against Rockledge Steelers of Florida, USA, with an emphatic 5-2 win. Out of the three wins that they recorded during the week this was perhaps the most pleasing as the team consisted of young players that Head Coach Ian Hurdle has been working with over the last year. The game started off at a frenetic pace with both teams eager to make a good start but it was the Academy team that got the early breakthrough as Fred Dorvil forced his way into the penalty box before slotting the ball home. However, a poorly defended free kick saw Rockledge equalize through Marcus Scizlow. The Academy restored the lead when Fred Dorvil dribbled past two defenders and unleashed a fierce drive into the bottom corner of the goal. Yet another defensive slip allowed Rockledge back into the game as Mark Mackey got away from his markers
Action from the U17 TCIFA Academy/Rockledge Steelers encounter
and scored. Despite this setback the young Academy team took control of the game in the second half as they followed their coaches’ instructions to be patient and keep passing the ball to
tire out their opponents. The tactic worked as the team TCI dominated the second half with Fred Dorvil rounding off an excellent display by scoring two more goals before jerry Liluce got onto the scoresheet with a long range shot.
Coach Ian Hurdle was particularly pleased with the win as it showed that the young team has a good future ahead of them. “All the wins have been special, but this one perhaps more so as it shows we have the players that can compete at a high level. They are young but if they continue to listen and work hard they can go far.” TCIFA president was more than happy with the week’s games saying “we can put on a good show and play some good football. Thanks must go to all the players, coaches, executive members and volunteers who have made this event a tremendous success. Our association will continue to give our players, coaches and referees the opportunities to play at a high level so they can benefit from the experience and continue to develop”. Two awards were given to TCI Academy players: U17 Player of the Week – Fred Dorvil / U20 Player of the Week – Luis Turbyfield.
Road to the London Olympic Trials 2012 BY RITA J. GARDINER SUN CONTRIBUTOR OVERVIEW During the years of the late 80s going into the early 90s, a concerned citizen of the Cayman Islands with Turks and Caicos Islands heritage was bent on Turks and Caicos becoming a member of the International Olympic Association (IOC). This person was Robert “Bobby” Nunes. He tried as much as possible to work with government officials to achieve this goal, but it seemed far-fetched at the time, for although the political will of the Ministers of Government was evident, the interest from the sporting public was just not there. To become a member of the IOC there were specific demands that had to be met. Firstly, all countries seeking IOC membership were required to have at least 5 associations in order to have international affiliation with their respective Member Federations. RECOGNITION OF ASSOCIATION BY INTERNATIONAL FEDERATIONS At this time the Turks and Caicos Amateur Athletic Association (TCAAA) was the only association in the country that was recognized by an International Federation, the International Amateur Athletic Association (IAAF) since 1977. I am proud to have been a founding member of this noble institution and have been working with it since then to the present (35 years later). Due to the fact that other Associations were not stepping up and forming their associations, the government had no other alternative but
to abandon the goal, as this had to be the responsibility of private citizens to form the associations and then receive the support of the government. This decision still haunts us today, one the country will live to regret and the youth of this country will consequentially pay dearly in their quest to reach their full potential in sport. CHANGES MADE BY OLYMPIC CHARTER A decision made by the IOC in 1996 will severely affect dependent territories, leaving Turks and Caicos Islands right in the midst. The Olympic Charter made a ruling that it would not recognize any country or territory that was not a sovereign independent state, unless “grandfathered in”. Therefore, countries such as Bermuda, Cayman Islands and BVI qualified under this policy and were allowed to remain because they were recognized by the IOC under the then applicable rules prior to 1996. This decision excluded those countries including the TCI from accessing Olympic Solidarity: funding, training and information exchanges vital to youth and sports development in their developing country. FORMATION OF A TCI NATIONAL OLYMPIC COMMITTEE (STEERING) In 2001, a group of concerned persons led by Canadian National, Ray Carbery, started a campaign to actively seek membership to the IOC, a steering committee was formed known as the Turks and Caicos Islands National Olympic Committee (Steering). The main objective was to seek recognition as an independent National Olympic Committee by the IOC, or seek assistance through our mother country, as it was already established that the
IOC would not take on any more dependent territories. This did not discourage the members who believed there was a mission to be achieved, and they were willing to do whatever it took to achieve that mission, even if it meant taking on the giant IOC. The Committee was comprised of 6 members, presided over by Ray Carbery. I was named 1 of the 3 Vice Presidents, along with a Secretary and a Treasurer. CAMPAIGN FOR RECOGNITION In 2002 the campaign got actively on its way, with letters going back and forth to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), the British Olympic Association (BOA), and as far as to the then Prime Minister, Tony Blair, and other countries who were in the same position as the Turks and Caicos Islands (without IOC status). We needed those countries as allies to strengthen our appeal and broaden our power base. This was found mainly in Gibraltar who at the time was in a legal battle with the IOC for not granting them membership on the grounds of discrimination. This case ended up few years later with Gibraltar losing their long standing battle in a Swiss Court. HARSH REALITIES The answers to our correspondence were always the same from the UK Officials and Sporting bodies. They empathized with our situation but there was nothing they could do to change the IOC’s decision. We must face the hard realities that until such time as Turks and Caicos becomes an independent nation, the only access to participation at the Olympic Games would appear to be through the British Olympic Association (BOA).
INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTHENING • At the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester, I was approached by the then President of the Commonwealth Games Federation, Michael Fennell, spoke to me about Turks and Caicos becoming a full member of the CGF. He said he recognized the work that our CGA was doing for the last 2 Games, 1998 and 2002 in which the Turks and Caicos participated. He said he believed the interest was there (referring to the years between 1978 to 1998 - 2 decades when there was no participation from the TCI). Turks and Caicos participated in just one Commonwealth Games in 1978 and it took 20 years for them to compete again. This was not a good sign and because of that the country had lost its status. But considering the great lengths that the Association went through to get re-instated and their attendance at both games, he was willing to support our application for a full membership and we would be able to enjoy the same benefits as other CGA’s. I saw this as an excellent opportunity to strengthen our sporting bodies, motivate our athletes and open the doors for them to compete at higher levels. In other words, some of the barriers would be removed and the bar would be raised in sports for our Athletes. CONTINUED NEXT WEEK
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Come and join our winning team!!!
LOCAL NEWS
Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages and Spa, the only 6 Diamond all inclusive property in the Caribbean is inviting applications from suitably qualified Turks and Caicos Islanders for the following vacant positions. Applicants must have a clean police record and a good command of the English language both written and spoken. In addition candidates must be able to work nights, public holidays and week-ends. The Resort thanks everyone for their interest in advance and advises that only short listed applicants will be contacted for an interview Environmental Health and Safety Department Requires:
Housekeeping Department requires:
o Environmental Health and Safety Clerk Requirements include but are not limited to: o Medical office administrative experience preferred o Computer literate
o Housekeeping Supervisor o Supervises and may participate in housekeeping services including cleaning, mopping, scrubbing, sanitizing the floors and other surfaces as well as the refinishing, waxing and polishing of floors, tile work and other various floor and wall surfaces in stairways, hallways, restrooms, offices, laboratories, recreation and locker rooms.
The rate for the position listed above is $6.00 to $9.00 an hour.
o Room Attendants/ Domestic Worker o Housemen o Public Area Attendants Requirements include but are not limited to: o One year’s experience in a hotel environment an asset. o Physically fit
Food and Beverage Department requires: o Server Requirements include but are not limited to: o No allergies to any foods o Physically fit
The rate for the positions listed above is $5.00 to $8.00 an hour.
Bar Department requires:
Entertainment Department requires:
o Supervisor Requirements include but are not limited to: o Three years supervising a bar and inventory o Excellent customer service skills o Knowledge of wines o Bar Porter o Bartender Requirements include but are not limited to: o Knowledge of wines mixing alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages o Physically fit The rate for the positions listed above is $5.00 to $8.00 an hour. Engineering Department requires: o Room Technicians o Electrician o Carpenter o Laundry Technician o A/C Technician o Sewage Plant Operator Requirements include but are not limited to: o Knowledgeable of in related fields both in theory and practical o Painter o Tile layer/ Mason o Labour Requirements include but are not limited to: o Previous experience o Physically Fit
o Kids Counselor/ Attendant Requirements include but are not limited to: o An outgoing personality required o Certificate in early childhood education an asset o First Aid qualification an asset o Fun pals/Players/ Dancers/ Clowns Requirements include but are not limited to: o An outgoing personality required o Ability to sing and dance o o o o o
Tennis Pro 2 years’ experience as a pro Ability to teach skills to guest of all age groups Willingness to promote and sell tennis classes Additional skills which allow flexibility to utilized in other areas in Entertainment
The rate for the positions listed above is $5.15 to $6.50 an hour. The Grounds Department requires: o Supervisor o Experience in Horticulture o Physically Fit o Ability to manage a diverse team o Groundsman/ lady Requirements include but are not limited to: o Physically fit o Ability to carry out labour intensive task
The rate for the positions listed above is $5.00 to $10.00 an hour.
The rate for the positions listed above is $5.00 to $8.00 an hour.
Entertainment Department requires:
The Watersports Department requires: Dive shop Manager Requirements include but are not limited to: o Experience managing a Dive shop operation o Ability to up and cross sell o PADI certification to dive o PADI certification to teach instructors o First Aid Certification
o Choreographer Requirements include but are not limited to: o Conceptualize and bring to production entertainment at the Resort The rate for the position listed above is $6.00 to $9.00 an hour. Security Department Requires:
The salary for the position listed above ranges from $28,000.00 to $35,000.00
o Security Officers Requirements include but are not limited to: o Physically Fit o Ability to write reports o Attention to detail and ability to enforce procedure
o Scuba Instructor Requirements include but are not limited to: o Physically Fit o Certified in first aid o PADI Certified
The rate for the position listed above is $6.00 to $6.50 an hour.
The rate for the positions listed above is $6.00 to $7.50 an hour.
Kitchen Department requires:
Accounts and Cost Control Department requires:
o Kitchen Helper Requirements include but are not limited to: o Physically Fit
o Data Entry Clerk o Cost Control Clerk Requirements include but are not limited to: o Book keeping or accounting qualification o Two (2) Experience in cost control or Accounts
The rate for the positions listed above is $6.00 to $9.00 an hour. Rooms Division Department Requires: o Butler Requirements include but are not limited to: o Member of the Association of English Butlers o Ability to go above and beyond for guest
The rate for the positions listed above is $6.00 to $9.50 an hour.
Applications giving full details of qualifications and experience should be sent to: mmvaughn@grp.sandals.com or Fax to: 941-4870 Attn: M McClean-Vaughn
The rate for the position listed above is $6.00 to $6.50 an hour. The Human Resources Department Beaches Turks and Caicos P.O. Box 186 Lower Bight Road
AND
The Labour Commissioner Labour Department Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands
and should reach not later than August 4th 2012 Otherwise, please call for additional information tel # 649-946-8000 ext 4138
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
HIGHLIGHTS
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Tiger Woods no longer top-paid athlete.
Nadal out of London Olympic Games with injury Olympic champion Rafael Nadal's withdrawal from the London Games because of injury deprived the tournament of one of its biggest attractions and left Spain reeling on Thursday. The gold-medal winner in Beijing four years ago has failed to recover from a knee problem, and so will also miss out on the honor of carrying his nation's flag at the opening ceremony. The Spanish tennis federation (RFET) said Feliciano Lopez would be his replacement in the singles, while Marc Lopez would step in to partner Marcel Granollers in the doubles. The country's Olympic committee (COE) said a meeting on Friday would decide on a replacement flag bearer for the July 27 parade. "I'm not in a condition to be able to compete," Nadal, 26, said in a statement. "It's one of the saddest moments of my career." Nadal won a record seventh French
Rafael Nadal
Open title in June but crashed out in the second round at Wimbledon in a big upset against lowly ranked Czech Lukas Rosol. Earlier this month, he pulled out of
Bryant fears size matters in quest for gold In a sport dominated by giants, Kobe Bryant fears a lack of height could be the downfall of the United States as they bid to retain their Olympic basketball title at the London Games. The U.S. won their third straight warm-up match on Thursday, beating Britain 118-78 in Manchester, and will now jet off to Barcelona to face Spain and Argentina. They are clear favorites to win gold in London, but they are not unbeatable, according to Bryant. "We definitely have weaknesses that teams can take advantage of," he told reporters. "So, we'll get a good look at that. "It's size. It's size and teams being able to slow the game down and work the ball inside on us, and we have to do a good job of taking care of our defensive pressure." Head coach Mike Krzyzewski said they are taking nothing for granted, but are confident they can turn their current form into gold medal success. "We're not going to look great all the time because the rest of the world is that good," he said. "We're not going to assume anything. Hopefully the way we're playing will translate into a gold medal." The U.S. begin their Olympic competition against France on July 29.
a charity match against Novak Djokovic at Real Madrid's Bernabeu stadium saying he was suffering from tendinitis and needed to rest. Nadal had hoped to return to Wimbledon this month to defend his Olympic title and his withdrawal echoes his plight of 2009 when a similar knee problem meant he had to withdraw from the grasscourt grand slam, a year after winning it for the first time in an epic final against Roger Federer. "I have to think of my colleagues, I cannot be selfish and I have to think of the well-being of Spanish sport, especially Spanish tennis, and let a colleague play who has had a better preparation and is in a state to compete," the world number three added. "I pushed until the last moment in my preparations, in training, but it wasn't to be. "Today is one of the saddest days of my career as it was one of my biggest
dreams, and perhaps the most anticipated moment to be the flag bearer at the opening ceremony for the Games in London. "You can imagine how difficult it has been to take this decision." Messages of support quickly flooded in for the Mallorcan, one of the first coming from compatriot David Ferrer. "It's a shame about Rafa, the most important thing is that he recovers soon. He is the best... Keep your spirits up," the world number five wrote on his Twitter account COE president Alejandro Blanco said Nadal was devastated. "It is a sad day for him but once again he has proved what a great person he is," Blanco told Spanish radio. "If he isn't 100 percent, if he isn't able to go for the victory, if he isn't convinced he can be Olympic champion he prefers to let another person try."
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WORLD SPORTS
JULY 21ST - JULY 28TH, 2012
Tiger Woods no longer top-paid athlete NEW YORK -- Tiger Woods has finally lost the title of the world's bestpaid athlete, more than two years after a sex scandal chased away some of his most lucrative sponsors. In this year's Fortunate 50 -Sports Illustrated's ranking of the toppaid U.S. athletes -- boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. knocked Woods out of the top spot for the first time since the list began in 2004. Woods dropped into third place after golfer Phil Mickelson nabbed the No. 2 spot. Woods' estimated endorsement income fell to $54.5 million in 2011 from $60 million in 2010 and $92 million in 2009, the year that ended with his well-publicized sex scandal. Woods' scandal cost him several high-profile sponsors, most notably Gatorade, which ended its deal with Woods in February 2010. He also lost partnerships with General Motors' Buick, Procter & Gamble's Gillette razors and AT&T.
Boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. knocked Woods out of the top spot
But fortunately for Woods, his biggest sponsor, Nike stuck with him, paying him an estimated $35 million a year. He also still has a deal with video-game maker Electronic Arts,
which is believed to be worth $9 million annually. And he's picked up a few new sponsors, although they're not nearly as big as the blue-chip names he lost. In late 2011, upstart sports-drink maker Fuse Science signed him, but the company was still in the development stage and only started generating limited revenue earlier this year. Woods has not won a major tournament since the scandal broke and has seen his on-course earnings fall sharply. His estimated winnings were just $1.9 million last year, down from $20.5 million during the 2009 golfing season. In the top spot, Mayweather Jr. had zero endorsement dollars, but brought home $40 million in his win over Victor Ortiz in September 2011 and another $45 million from his May 2012 fight with Miguel Cotto. He's going to have trouble spending those winnings in the near term though: He's serving a
three-month jail sentence for domestic abuse. Woods' golfing rival Phil Mickelson is No. 2 on the earnings list, the spot he's held since 2008. With $3.8 million in winnings and an estimated $57 million in endorsement deals, his earnings are little changed from 2011. Sports Illustrated's rankings combine the pay, winnings and endorsement deals from the athletes' most recently completed season. That means New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, who just signed a $100 million, five-year deal that will pay him $40 million in the 2012 season, is not yet on the Fortunate 50 list. The list also excludes foreign athletes, meaning Swiss tennis star Roger Federer -- with an estimated $51.4 million in winnings and endorsements -- is nowhere to be found. The top-paid international athlete, he'd be No. 4 on the Fortunate 50 if he were an American.
Jason Kidd Britain defends deployment of extra 3,500 Olympics troops arrested for drunk driving NBA veteran point guard Jason Kidd, recently acquired by the New York Knicks, was arrested for suspicion of drunk driving early Sunday after a onecar crash, New York media outlets reported. The 39-year-old 10-time NBA AllStar was released on his own recognizance, the New York Post reported. Police sergeant Michael Burns of suburban Southampton told the New York Daily News that Kidd was arrested after crashing his Cadillac Escalade into a telephone pole. He was the only person in the car and was treated for minor injuries at a local hospital near his summer home in the Hamptons, the Daily News reported. The Knicks inked Kidd last week to a deal worth about $3 million a year. Kidd, second on the NBA's all-time list for steals and assists, opted to leave the Dallas Mavericks. He has also played in New Jersey, leading the Nets to two NBA Finals appearances before he was traded to Dallas. It was thought that the Knicks might want Kidd to mentor young point guard Jeremy Lin, if New York opt to keep him. Knicks coach Mike Woodson had indicated last week that the Knicks would match any offer the AsianAmerican star received as a restricted free agent, but on Saturday Newsday reported that the three-year, $25.1 million offer sheet Lin signed with Houston on Saturday had the Knicks rethinking that plan.
British authorities insisted that Olympic security would not be compromised after having to draft in an extra 3,500 troops because a private security firm failed to provide enough guards. The embarrassing development adds to worries about Britain's preparations for the London Games, which officially open on July 27, as fresh problems also emerged with transport and border security for the event. Home Secretary Theresa May made an urgent statement to lawmakers confirming that private contractor G4S could not supply all the security staff it had promised due to recruitment and training problems. "Let me reiterate that there is no question of Olympic security being compromised," the interior minister told lawmakers. She said the government had built in contingency plans to what is Britain's largest security operation since World War II but that "concerns have arisen about the ability of G4S to deliver the required number of guards". "We have now agreed it would be prudent to deploy additional military support to provide greater reassurance," she said. May said she was confident the government would be able to stick to its security budget for the Games, which stands at ÂŁ553 million ($877 million, 662 million euros). A total of 17,000 troops will now be involved in the Olympics. The extra deployment of 3,500 is equivalent in size to more than a third of the current total British military force of 9,500 in Afghanistan, and comes as the armed forces are facing widespread cuts. But Defence Secretary Philip Hammond said it would have "no adverse impact on other operations." He added in a statement that all soldiers involved would receive their full leave entitlement and compensation if they had had to change any arrangements. May said the government was now donating 10,000 Olympic and Paralympic tickets to the armed forces, as well as 7,000 tickets for dress rehearsals of the
Olympics opening and closing ceremonies. But opposition lawmakers demanded an explanation for the change which comes just over two weeks before the start of events despite Britain having had seven years to prepare. "G4S has let the country down and we have literally had to send in the troops," Keith Vaz, the Labour chairman of the home affairs select committee, told parliament. Labour home affairs spokeswoman Yvette Cooper said the announcement "really looks like another huge Home Office shambles". It was unclear what would happen to the reported ÂŁ300 million fee the government had paid G4S for Olympic security. Separately a parliamentary committee report published on Thursday found that Britain's spy agencies have been placed under "unprecedented pressure" by preparations for the Olympics, leaving the country at risk from other threats. The Intelligence and Security Committee oversees the work of MI5, Britain's domestic intelligence agency, the foreign spy agency MI6, and the electronic eavesdropping agency GCHQ. It praised them for working against potential threats to the Games from Al-Qaeda, Irish republican dissidents and "hostile states". But the report said committee members remain "concerned at the risk that is being taken in some areas and the vulnerability of the UK at this critical period." In a far cry from the image of fictional British spy James Bond, it added that one particular difficulty for the intelligence agencies was arranging childcare over the British summer. Meanwhile an independent watchdog warned that border staff drafted in to cope with the influx of visitors to Britain for the Games may lack proper training and immigration experience. In another pre-Olympics scare, the main M4 motorway between Heathrow Airport and London has been closed for repairs to a cracked viaduct. Britain's Highways Agency said it expected the road to reopen in time for the Games.
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Published by SUN MEDIA GROUP, Turks and caicos Islands | Tel:649 946 8542 | Fax: 649 941 3281
TURKS & CAICOS SUN