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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
LOCAL NEWS
SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
e election race is on!
BY HAYDEN BOYCE PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Four former Chief Ministers, 16 firsttimers, six women and 14 men, five lawyers, two taxi drivers, a doctor, a certified accountant and several business persons, are among those who have officially been chosen to contest what is expected to be a keenly-contested and extremely close general elections in the Turks and Caicos Islands on November 9th 2012. The two main political parties, the Progressive National Party (PNP) and the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) have both finalised their lists of candidates who have been actively campaigning to mixed responses from the general public. The four former Chief Ministers current PDM leader Oswald Skippings and Derek Taylor who also served that party, and Washington Misick and Norman Saunders who were both PNP Chief Ministers. The PNP has eight first-timers including its leader Dr. Rufus Ewing (who is running At-Large), two former general secretaries Donhue Gardiner who is running in the newly-created North and Middle Caicos constituency, and attorney-at-law Akeirra Misick who is contesting the new Leeward seat. The other PNP new comers are mini-mart owner George Lightbourne who is running in Grand Turk North, businessman Rex Swann in Grand Turk South and Salt Cay, former bank manger and engineer Portia Stubbs-Smith in The Bight, taxi driver Adrian Williams in Blue Hills, rental car owner Clay Ewing in Five Cays. The eight PDM first-timers are At-large candidate, businesswoman Josephine Connolly, construction worker Derek Rolle who is running in Grand Turk North, Government worker Edwin Astwood in Grand Turk South, chartered accountant Edith Cox in South Caicos, customs officer Ezra Taylor in Leeward, taxi diver Sonny Forbes in The Bight, businessman Oral Selver in Cheshire Hall/Richmond and oil company executive Goldray Ewing (the brother of PNP leader Dr. Rufus Ewing) in Blue Hills. The total voter population in the Turks and Caicos Islands of 6,690 has been divided into ten Electoral Districts. Providenciales has more than half of the voter population of 4280 voters, while Grad Turk has 1620, Salt Cay 37, South Caicos 318, Middle Caicos 56, and North Caicos 146. Since the last election in February 2007, there have been several shifts in population.
COMPARISON OF 2007 VOTER POPULATION DATA AND 2012 VOTER POPULATION DATA BY DISTRICT
District 1 West Road District 2 Overback
District 3 North Back Salina District 4 South Back Salina(including Salt Cay)
District 5 South Caicos North
District 6 South Caicos South District 7 Middle Caicos
District 8 North Caicos East
District 9 North Caicos West District 10 The Bight, Providenciales District 11 Blue Hills
District 12 Five Cays
District 13 Cheshire Hall
District 14 Richmond Hill
District 15 Long Bay Hills
2007
2012
457
539
328 503 509 318 229 190 442 283 698 882 747 642 408 351
232 370 479 183 135 56
228 188 831
1393 796 546 122 592
Blue Hills represents the largest area of population growth in Providenciales, with the voter population there growing from 882 in 2007 to 1,393 in 2012. This figure is less than the total Grand Turk voter population by only 227. General elections in Turks and Caicos Islands tend to be very close. In 2007, when they were 6,987 registered voters, of which 5,937 voted, the PNP won 13 seats and the PDM two, but an analysis of the results reveal that it was an exceptionally close race in many constituencies. The breakdown is as follows: • West Road – Samuel Been (PNP) 165 votes, William Harvey (PDM) 133 votes; nine rejected; • Overback – Floyd Hall (PNP) 283 votes, Robert D’Arcuiel (PDM) 123 votes; eight rejected; • North Backsalina– Arthur Robinson (PDM) 228 votes, Arthur Lightbourne (PNP) 214 votes; five rejected; • South Backsalina – Floyd Seymour (PDM) 244 votes, Deveraux Malcolm (PNP) 207 votes; five rejected; • South Caicos North – McAllister Hanchell (PNP) 197 votes, Noel Skippings (PDM) 84 votes; five rejected; • South Caicos South – Norman Saunders (PNP) 156 votes, Carl Gardiner (PDM) 43 votes, one rejected; • Middle Caicos – Jeffrey Hall (PNP) 126 votes, Wendy Been (PDM) 45 votes; two rejected; • North Caicos East – Mike Misick (PNP) 271 votes, Ashwood Forbes (PDM) 82 votes; three rejected; • North Caicos West – Royal Robinson (PNP) 162 votes, Clarence Selver (PDM) 85 votes, Prince Selver (Independent) 4 votes; one rejected; • The Bight – Karen Delancey (PNP) 333 votes, Jestina Delancey (PDM) 237 votes, five rejected; • Blue Hills – Greg Lightbourne (PNP) 373 votes, Delroy Williams (PDM) 342 votes; two rejected • Five Cays – Lillian Boyce (PNP) 337 votes, Sean Astwood (PDM) 266 votes; 12 rejected;
• Cheshire Hall – Amanda Misick (PNP) 304 votes, Dwayne Taylor (PDM) 208 votes; 13 rejected; • Richmond Hill – Wayne Garland (PNP) 230 votes, Glynes Robison (PDM) 132 votes; four rejected; • Long Bay Hills – Galmo Williams (PNP) 200 votes, Finbar Grant (PDM) 119 votes; two rejected. In the 1999 Elections, which the PDM won, the results were as follows: • South Backsalina - Derek Taylor (PDM) 231, Oswald Williams (PNP)154; • North Backsalina – Oswald Skippings (PDM) 272, Sean Malcolm (PNP) 113, Robert Adams 8; • West Road – Larry Coalbrooke (PDM) 202, Arabella Smith (PNP) 134, Earl Fulford 3; • Overback –Washington Misick (PNP) 185, Deon Wilson (PDM) 143, Lloyd Rodney 9; • South Caicos North –Noel Skippings (PDM) 144, Emily Saunders (PNP) 134; • South Caicos South – Norman Saunders (PNP) 117, Dorothy Malcolm 67, Alden Durham (PDM) 78, Royalton Harvey 2; • Middle Caicos – Jeffrey Hall (PNP) 100, Sam Harvey (PDM) 96, Hormel Harvey 10, Royal Robinson 9; • North Caicos East – Ashwood Forbes (PDM) 159, Mike Misick (PNP) 155, Richard Missick 71, Prince Selver 3; • North Caicos West – Clarence Selver (PDM) 163, Royal Robinson (PNP) 99; • The Bight – Felix Delancey (PDM) 153, Karen Delancey (PNP) 124, Shirleen Stubbs 77; • Blue Hills – Hilly Ewing (PDM) 308, Albert Grant (PNP) 196; • Five Cays – Lillian Been (PNP) 196, Carl Jolly (PDM) 188 and Staven Rigby 6; • Cheshire Hall – Cheryl Astwood Tull (PDM) 263, Rhynie Williams (PNP) 142 and Clifford Hamilton 36. Up to press time, the breakdown of the 2003 results by individual candidates could not be compiled.
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SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Is justice really blind, or what? By Royal S. Robinson, MBE
counsel. Let us not forget that we are paying all. It is Years ago, even when I was in our taxpayers’ dollars that the public service, I liked are at stake! Furthermore, going to the Supreme Court to the bulk of what is paid to see and hear for myself how the local lawyers would important cases were argued remain in circulation in for the benefit of the jury or in country, while the reverse some cases, the Justice sitting would be the position with alone, or in a few instances, a outside lawyers. three Justice panel sitting as Then when I saw Mr. the Court of Appeals. In recent Barnett having to jump times, I just did not make through a number of hoops myself available to listen to the and invoking those various arguments. provisions of the European Last Friday, curiosity got Court of Human Rights the best of me and I attended at articles dealing with ROYAL ROBINSON the Supreme Court to hear a discrimination on the basis CONTRIBUTER bright layman in the form of of race, religion etc. without Wilkie Arthur and two officers being able to attack head on of the Court in the bodies of Attorneys Courtney some of those provisions, it was pure legal dexterity Barnett and Noel Skippings, arguing for uplifts so on his part to say the least! When a white, foreigner that they could mount adequate and effective can get the type of remuneration that he rightly defenses. deserves without question, and our local boys have Let us discount Mr. Arthur for a moment and to go through such problems to get a little uplift, concentrate on the two qualified bar counsels for a something is definitely wrong with the system! It moment! Both had argued before successfully does not matter that the Registrar might be new. before the Supreme Court and the Appeals Court. The information on a case by case basis is within In fact, Mr. Barnett can boast of a 75% success rate the ambit of the administrators. Just look at the files at the Appeals Court level against a very able and and see if the process is fair! competent Jurist of the Supreme Court. So, one What too is striking is that there a few lawyers cannot take the line that these persons lack skill and her who are prepared to take on the human rights ability. So to have them having to plead their case issues before the Court on behalf of the little man. in the manner that it was done did not look or sound Mr. Lloyd Rodney, God rest his soul, did that and kosher to me! Barnett and Skippings to their credit, have taken up When you look at the situation with the foreign that mantle and have decided to soldier on! So give lawyers who were brought in as part of the SIPT them what is rightly due to them! They should not and what remunerations they are getting from us, have to be given the uplift as a matter of right, but you have to wonder the rationale. I can concede the when the case merits it, no impediment should be point that in some instances, SIPT might have to places in their way of getting it. deal with certain specialized situations, but there We have to begin to treat our own equally. should not be the great disparities that currently There is no better place to start than with the obtain between our local lawyers and outside Judiciary. We talk and invoke the notion that there
SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
Turks and Caicos Sun Suite # 5, Airport Plaza Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Tel: (649) 946-8542/ (649) 241-1510 Fax: (649) 941-3281 Email: sun@suntci.com Read us online at www.suntci.com
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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.
is equality of justice. But how can that be if there is definitely a deficiency when it comes to the equality of arms? We might not have the numbers as yet, but we certainly have the quality! Let us begin at a very good place, that is, before the law and the justice system here in the Turks and Caicos Islands. As Lord Denning is often quoted as saying, “Justice must not only be done, but it must be seen to be done!”
Royal Robinson was a former Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance and Health in the Progressive National Party (PNP) Administration.
EDITORIAL CARTOON TURKS AND CAICOS SUN’S LETTERS POLICY
The Turks and Caicos SUN welcomes Letters to the Editor. Letters containing libelous or defamatory charges, personal attacks or abusive language will not be considered for publication. We would prefer letters of 500 words or less, and we will not print anonymous letters or letters tagged with initials. All letters are subject to the final approval of the Publisher and Editor-inChief, who reserves the right to accept or reject submissions and to edit letters and headlines to meet our established standards for grammar, clarity and length.
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
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SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
LOCAL NEWS
Harold Charles to form new party called People’s Progressive Party (PPP) BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
The Turks and Caicos Islands is to have a third political party in time for the November 9 general elections, after successful businessman Harold Charles has abandoned his plans to run At Large and will instead form a political organization to contest at least six constituency seats. The Peoples Progressive Party (PPP) is expected to launch this week at a media event, and it is expected that some of the candidates would be presented. The former Sky King Airlines owner, who initially made plans to run At Large, told The SUN that he shelved that intention after scores of Belongers expressed interest to be part of his team, and encouraged him to form a political organization instead. “I am not running At Large anymore. What I am doing now is to form a party. The party is well formed, well together. All the structures of the party should be organized and settled by next week Wednesday (September
SUN EXCLUSIVE
5). As you know, I planned to run At Large, but after we found out the vast number of persons who approached us and said that they were looking for leadership and a new direction, and that they would support us, we decided to form the party. “We will not contest all the seats; we don’t plan to do so at this time, but we will contest six seats at the minimum. But definitely it will not be 15, I don’t think it would be 10, nor would we have five candidates At Large. We are in conversation with a number of great men and women, and by next week we should have all of these things settled,” Charles said. Charles added: “We have a very diverse group of business people and those of other professions, who I believe can deliver and who would be able to get things done as a team. We have lawyers, doctors and great business people; people, not only with vision, skills and talent, but people that care for the Turks and Caicos; that care for the average persons, and people that understand that the Turks and Caicos is a melting pot and that we
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION
The Financial Services Commission, a statutory body of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government responsible for the licensing and regulation of financial services businesses, is seeking qualified applicants for the following posts:
Internal Auditor (Part Time)
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES The holder of this position will carry out the following duties: • Plan and carry out the internal audit function • Ensure that efficient and effective controls are in place to meet objectives • Document process flows to show areas of control activities and areas which may require possible process improvements • Assess and design operating effectiveness control structures and develop audit programmes to test compliance accordingly • Make report on findings (including recommendations) in relation to internal control reviews and business risk reviews to the Audit and Risk Management Committee of the Board of Directors of the Commission • Conduct value for money reviews and review the accuracy, timeliness and relevance of financial information presented to management • Examine corporate governance practices and ensure that the Commission abides by its stated principles • Ensure that the Commission, as far as is practical, operates so as to be in compliance with relevant provisions of the: - Financial Services Commission Ordinance - National Audit Office Ordinance - Public Finance Management Ordinance. - Any other duties as may be set out in the Job Description of Internal Auditor or as assigned by the Audit and Risk Management Committee or the Full Board. EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE Preferred qualification is a Degree in Accounting or professional qualification through ACCA, CPA, CIPFA or CISA. A minimum of five (5) years’ experience as an internal auditor, including audit of computer information systems. COMPENSATION The Commission will negotiate with the applicant a fixed hourly rate and expenses related to any necessary and required work travel will be borne separately by the Commission
LOCATION OF ASSIGNMENTS The duties for the above post are in relation to all the Commission’s locations (Grand Turk and Providenciales).
Applications should be received no later than September 30, 2012 and may be emailed to dmorrison@tcifsc.tc or faxed to 649-946-2369.
need to represent every single person. We want to make people understand that we welcome talent in this country.” Charles said that if his party got the majority of the seats in the November elections, he would be focusing on quite a few areas, including the economy, the employment of especially young people, and making sure that those who had played their part and were now on retirement, spent the rest of their lives living comfortable. Charles who said that he had tested the political waters of the Turks and Caicos Islands, concluded that persons were longing for a party with new vision, which he said he and his team would be able to provide for the country. “We need to protect the small businesses in the Turks and Caicos and then again, we need to create more activities for the elderly. I am not saying that they have been neglected, but we need to create better activities for them, and we need to look after them because they have paid their dues to this country to make it what it is today. We also need to reach out to the young people. We have too many of our young men and women who came out of school with qualifications but are not practicing what they went to school for. We need to address all of those issues.” “A number of people who called me and said ‘Harold, we share you vision, we share your dream, therefore, we want to work with you; we want to help you; we want to be part of what you are doing’. They realized that Harold Charles is not doing something for Harold Charles. Harold Charles is doing that for Turks and Caicos. I am doing it for the average people who don’t have a voice. I am doing this not to make the persons who are already wealthy wealthier. I am doing it to create equal opportunity for every single Turks and Caicos Islander; for every single person that live here,” Charles said. He reiterated that too often politicians pledged to assist the Ricardo Fulford Consultant Services on behalf of his clients:
Things Unlimited is seeking employment for the following: 1) Domestic Worker
Ricardo Fulford Contracting is seeking employment for the following: 1) Labourer Tropical Bar is seeking employment for the following: 1) Bartender Daniel Alexander Adams is seeking employment for the following: 1) Domestic Worker
Please contact Daniel Alexander Adams regarding employment at 3463906. Interested candidates may apply through fulfordricardo@yahoo.com or call 346-1125.
Harold Charles
average man, but as soon as they are elected reneged on those promises; and if elected he planned to change that. Quizzed as to why he was seeking to form a third party at this time, Charles pointed out that the opportune time for such an entity was now, and he and his team would not pass on such opportunity. ‘The people of the Turks and Caicos are looking for a new direction; they are looking for a new vision, and we will be proving to the people of the Turks and Caicos that we have the ability to deliver what this country needs. We need to create great jobs for our people and partnerships for the investors that we will be bringing in from overseas. “We also need to give civil servants the training that they need and pay them well. We can’t expect them to do a super job, but paying them a salary where they can’t even look after their families. If we don’t do that, we would lose the best brains to the private sector,” he said. Charles reiterated that his fledgling party was expected to do well at the polls, but in the event that was not achieved, they would devise ways of getting the entity even stronger for the next election cycle. “The party is here to stay, and if anyone thinks that we are not going to be successful at the polls, I think they would be making a big mistake. Because we are not here to lose this (election), we are here to win, and we know what the needs of the people are. We know what the country needs and we are not stranger to the people. When they look at the team they would realize that we will deliver,” Charles emphasized. Outside of Providenciales, Charles was unrevealing as to which other seats the PPP would contest. In the meantime, Charles rubbished rumours that he was being questioned by the Britishcommissioned Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT), which is in the Turks and Caicos Islands investigation and prosecuting government corruption. “Some months ago I contacted them (SIPT); they did not contact me,” he explained.
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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
LOCAL NEWS
SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
FortisTCI Acquires Turks and Caicos Utilities Limited FortisTCI (the Company) announced today that it has acquired 100 % shares of the Grand Turk based electricity company, Turks & Caicos Utilities Limited (TCU).The purchase agreement was finalized yesterday. TCU operates two diesel fired power plants that serve more than 2000 residential and commercial customers between Grand Turk and Salt Cay. Combined, both islands have a generating capacity of 9.2 megawatts (“MW”) with a peak demand of 4.2 MW. TCU currently functions pursuant to a 50 year license that expires in 2036. “We believe that there are
immediate and long term synergies from the operational amalgamation of both companies that will benefit all stakeholders,” said President and CEO of FortisTCI, Eddinton Powell. “We look forward to working with electricity consumers on Grand Turk and Salt Cay in the weeks, months, and years to come. We intend to be a full strategic partner in all areas of our service territories. Quality service, infrastructure, technology, and human resource development will continue to be our main focus across all Islands.” FortisTCI is a subsidiary of Canadian owned Fortis Inc. and is the licensed provider of electricity on Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle
Deputy Permanent secretary Ezekiel Hall placed on leave Ezekiel Hall, the undersecretary in the Ministry of Border Control and Immigration, has been placed on administrative leave, the SUN can confirm. Government Press officials said TCIG “will not comment on confidential staffing matters”, but wellplaced sources told The SUN that Hall is facing disciplinary action. Telephone calls to Hall’s Government office also confirmed that Hall is on leave but no one could say when he will return. Sources said Hall was placed on leave allegedly because of his handling of an immigration-related matter involving a foreign lawyer. Hall was appointed in March this year.
Caicos Islands. FortisTCI Ltd. is the sole provider of electricity in Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, East Caicos and Dellis Cay. AEP is the sole provider of electricity in South Caicos. The Utilities have a combined diesel-fired generating capacity of approximately 65 megawatts. Fortis Inc. is the largest investorowned distribution utility in Canada, with total assets of more than $14 billion and fiscal 2011 revenue totalling approximately $3.7 billion. The Corporation serves more than 2,000,000 gas and electricity customers. Its regulated holdings include electric distribution utilities in five Canadian provinces and two Caribbean countries and a natural gas utility in British Columbia, Canada. Fortis owns and operates nonregulated generation assets across Canada and in Belize and Upstate New York. It also owns hotels and commercial office and retail space in Canada. Fortis Inc. shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange and trade under the symbol FTS. A
TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS AIRPORTS AUTHORITY
Ezekiel Hall
Insurance Manager Wanted
Insurance Manager needed for on island insurance brokerage company. Must be a college graduate, demonstrate competency in the daily management, supervision, coordination and completion of underwriting surveying and claims. Position requires significant administrative and financial responsibilities. Must be an excellent communicator with good computer, planning and administration skills. Salary begins at $50K but will be commensurate with experience. Please submit applications to The Manager, P.O. Box 97, Caribbean Place, Providenciales, Fax 649 946 4564, with a copy to Department of Labour, Providenciales Email resume to:johannefreeman@gmail.com MERVIN JENNINGS Tel: 941-8714 SEEKS ONE
CARPENTER
Caicos, East Caicos and on adjacent cays. The Company also provides services through Atlantic Equipment & Power Limited (AEP) to South Caicos. Together, FortisTCI, AEP, and TCU will service over 11,000 electricity consumers in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Since entering the market in 2006, Fortis Inc. has invested approximately $210 million, inclusive of the TCU acquisition, in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Stan Marshall, President and CEO of Fortis Inc. stated that, “The electricity business is highly capital intensive and we are focused on meeting the growing needs of electricity consumers. The acquisition of TCU further demonstrates our commitment to being a long term strategic partner in the Turks and Caicos Islands.” FortisTCI Ltd. and Atlantic Equipment & Power Limited (AEP) became a wholly owned subsidiary of Fortis Inc. located in Newfoundland, Canada in August 2006. FortisTCI Ltd. and AEP serve approximately 9,700 electricity customers in the Turks &
Salary: $10 per hour 44 hour week Interested applicants please Contact the number listed
NOTICE OF INVITATION TO SUBMIT PREQUALIFICATION DETAILS FOR SUBSEQUENT TENDERS FOR PROPOSED ALTERATIONS AND EXTENSIONS AT PROVIDENCIALES INTERNATIONAL AIR TERMINAL Submissions are invited from suitably qualified and experienced building contractors in possession of a valid Turks and Caicos Islands business license in an appropriate category and subject to the payment of a non-returnable deposit of $150.00. Full details are given in package which will be available (subject to the payment of the deposit) from TCIAA offices, Providenciales International Airport as from Wednesday 22nd. August 2012 during normal working hours. When completed one set of the completed documents shall be returned in a sealed envelope marked; “ pre-qualification offer for alterations and extensions to Providenciales international air terminal“ And addressed to : “The chairman of the Turks & Caicos airports authority, C/o TCIAA, Providenciales international airport, Providenciales “ Failure to mark and seal the submission correctly may result in the submission being incomplete and not acceptable. The envelope shall not indicate its origin in any way. The latest date for submissions to be returned shall be 12 o’clock noon on Thursday 6th. September 2012. Any submission returned after that date or time for whatever reason may not be acceptable, at the sole discretion of the chairman of the Turks & Caicos islands airports authority. The chairman of the Turks & Caicos Islands airports authority Providenciales
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
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SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
LOCAL NEWS
Land-based tourism slip; cruise ship grows BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
Land-based tourism experienced a sharp drop in the second quarter of this year but cruise ship arrivals has made a modest climb, according to latest statistics released by the Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board. According to figures, land-based tourism arrivals declined by 24 percent from 105, 827 over last year compared with 80, 140 this year. In April, arrivals declined by 19 percent, then plummeted 31 percent in May and then declined by 23 percent in June. In April, 32, 669 visitors graced our shores compared with 40, 385 last year. In May the number was 23, 497 guests arrived here compared with 34, 108 last year, while in June, the figure was 23, 974 compared with 31, 334 over the corresponding period last year. In contrast, cruise ship arrivals grew by 7 percent, with 54 calls to the Grand Turk Cruise Centre, totalling 151, 215 passengers, who disembarked to patronise local artisans and visited out landmarks.
The Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board fingered several anomalies for the decline in tourism the last quarter, among them the snail’s pace with which better economic conditions in the United and United Kingdom were travelling and the outbreak of the Norovirus at a number of local properties locally, to the point where a number of the resorts were forced to halt bookings, close their properties and undertake comprehensive sanitary work. “While a number of contributing factors to this decline are known (including the outbreak of the Noro Virus and the actions taken to mitigate the potential fallout), the effects that the sluggish economies of Europe and the United States continue to be felt and should not be under estimated,” a statement from the Tourist Board said in part. Despite the setback, tourism interests, including the Tourist Board were upbeat that the ensuing quarters would result in more encouraging arrival numbers from both land-base and cruise ship passengers. They said that forward bookings showed encouraging signs.
ROYAL TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS POLICE
JOB ADVERTISEMENT
Job Title: PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER– UNDERSTUDY Department: Information Technology Posting Date: SEPTEMBER 3, 2012 Posting Expiry Date: SEPTEMBER 17, 2012
PURPOSE OF THE JOB The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police are seeking interested persons to fill the position of PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER – UNDERSTUDY, in Providenciales. Do you have the ability to effectively present the face of this organization to the outside world by communicating with the media and acting as the organization’s spokesperson? Then this is your opportunity to display your talent. RESPONSIBILITY As PR Officer Understudy, the incumbent will be required to assist with: • Preparing and distributing press releases to the media locally and internationally. • Arranging and assisting at press conferences on behalf of the Police Department. • Act as the liaison between the News Media and the Police Department. • Attend major scenes including serious accidents. • Preparing Annual Reports that are to be released to the public. • Releasing information under the direction of the Commissioner of Police or his Deputy. COMPETENCIES The position will require the incumbent to: • Demonstrate exceptional oral and written communication skills. • Display a high level of confidence, integrity and professionalism. • Demonstrate excellent planning and co-ordination skills. • Be available for duty 24 hours per day due to spontaneous activities. • Display good interpersonal skills. • Maintain an interest in current affairs
QUALIFICATIONS: The incumbent: • Should be versatile in audio visuals and Public Speaking. • Should have experience in Public Relations. • Will be highly desired should he/she hold a degree in communications, journalism or mass media. SALARY attached to this position is $25,000 per Annum plus Applicable Allowances. Salary MAY be negotiable depending on education and experience. Interested persons should submit their Application and attached Resume to: Sgt. Curvalene Skippings - Human Resource Officer Police Headquarters, Church Folly, Grand Turk TCI TEL: 946 2731 Ext 30312, Fax 9462099, Email: curvalene.skippings@tcipolice.tc Deadline for Submission: SEPTEMBER 17, 2012
“The Tourist Board is optimistic that the destination will return to a growth path in the third and fourth quarters based on reports from our wholesalers and travel partners, based on their future bookings. The cruise Industry continues to perform tremendously well for the TCI arrivals and following the recent enhancements including the construction of the Grand Turk Cruise Center and the Carnival Village in Grand Turk, this growth is expected to continue. According to Grand Turk Cruise Officials, the Grand Turk Cruise Center is meeting all of its targets,” the statement added. Director of Tourism, Ralph Higgs commented, who weighed in on the scenario, remarked that despite the challenges, the Turks and Caicos was poised to do better, while noting that numbers were mere reflections of what
Director of Tourism Ralph Higgs
was going on in the general market. “These are challenging times for the Turks and Caicos and these numbers reflect that. However, it does not mean our brand is losing its appeal; to the contrary. These numbers are consistent with a challenging economic time globally. It forces us to think outside the box, to be prudent and more creative in the way we do business. We still have more work to do, we are doing that work and together with our industry partners, we will continue to move our tourism industry higher heights,” said.
INTERISLAND AVIATION SERVICES GROUP IS SEEKING:
TWO (2) FLIGHT ATTENDANTS
Five (5) years or more experience. Willing to work flexible hours. Proficient in word, power point and excel: 90 words per minute crew quality data entry. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Manage over all safety, crew coordination briefing paper work and inflight entertainment. Instill quality Customer Service in front line position. TWO LABOURERS Should be able to work shifts, physically capable to do hard manual labour and lift heavy equipment.
TWO DOMESTIC WORKERS Responsible for cleaning and the general upkeep.
ONE RAMP AGENT Over 5 years experience in maneuvering heavy duty equipment e.g.(pushing and towing aircraft). Experience in general handling of General Aviation. Narrow body and wide body aircraft. British Airways, JAR OPS, Supervisor Aircraft loading qualified. US Airways fleet service door opening trainer. Awareness Certification of acceptance/refusal of hazardous material as per IATA regulations. Comprehensive knowledge in the operation of all Ground Service Equipment (GSE).
TWO AIRPORT HOSTS To provide high quality, professional customer service to internal & external customers. Answer questions and offer information covering a wide variety of airline airport related topics. Basic Computer skills. $5.00 per hour All positions require the following: Excellent command of the English language – reading, writing and speaking. Good communication skills and team player Detail oriented & organized individual Ability to work shifts, early mornings, late nights, weekends and Holidays. Clean police record Able to work under pressure Salary commensurate with experience.
Belongers need only apply. Interested applicants should apply to [LINK: mailto:HR@flyairtc.com] HR@flyairtc.com or via fax to HR Department No phone calls please. Qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview
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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
LOCAL NEWS
SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
Police urging motorists to slow down Motorists are being urged to slow down on the roads of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Police want drivers to reduce their speed, especially in built up and populated areas. Officers say that breaking the speed limits that are in place is putting people’s lives at risk, especially children. The islands' maximum speed is 40 mph, and in populated and built-up areas the limit drops to 20 mph. With youngsters set to return to school after the summer holidays, police
have warned they will be stepping up patrols across the TCI. Sgt Winston Diamond from the RTCI Police Traffic Department said: “Speed limits are there for a reason and drivers are reminded to take note and observe them at all times. “Speed is a major contributory factor in road traffic accidents and the cause of many serious injuries and even deaths. “It is crucial that people stay within the speed limits, particularly in populated areas such as residential streets, shopping plazas and schools.
“The question you must ask yourself is if a small child or pedestrian was to step out into the road, would you have enough time to stop? If the answer to that is no then reduce your speed straight away.” Motorists, caught breaking the speed limit, are warned they will ‘face heavy fines and possible prosecution’. “Speeding will not be tolerated”, added Sgt Diamond, “If you are caught then you will face the prospect of a heavy fine and or prosecution. “The devastation caused by road
traffic accidents is far reaching. It’s not just the victims that suffer. It also has a severe effect on family members, friends and motorists themselves and in many cases these accidents are completely avoidable. “In the TCI, nowhere is very far and there is simply nothing to be gained by speeding because you will barely reach your destination any quicker than if you stay within the speed limit. “Speed kills and so we must all work together for a safer TCI. One injury or fatality is one too many.”
TCI Fashion Designer will Return to Spark Red Rose Ball Kazz Forbes will make a reappearance, showcasing Saint George Fashion House (SGFH) ‘Island Breeze: Turks and Caicos’ Resort Collection, at the prestigious Red Rose Ball which will be held under the distinguished patronage of the Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, The Right Honorable Perry G.
Christie and First Lady Bernadette Christie. Forbes, Principal Designer and Proprietor of Saint George Fashion House (SGFH) was first invited to showcase his ‘Le Caicos Chic: A Romance with Decadence’ collection at the Red Rose Ball themed ‘A Night at the Opera House, Australia’, which took place November 5th 2011. In doing so; leaving attendees
AMBERGRIS CAY FACILITIES LTD
POSITION AVAILABLE Ambergris Cay Facilities Ltd is seeking a suitable applicant to fill an available post on Ambergris Cay ON A MONTH TO MONTH BASIS. The available post is for an:
LABOURER/HOUSEMAN
Job Summary: • Assisting the Housekeeping Team with daily housekeeping duties. • Cleaning of guest’s homes, staff dormitories, offices. • Ensuring that the housekeeping area is kept in a tidy manner at all times. • Clean and maintain all housekeeping equipment as required. • The Employee will operate in the safest possible manner at all times.
Requirements - Applicants must be and or have: • At least three (5) years of experience in Housekeeping • A high school diploma or equivalent • Attentive to details and self-motivated • 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 • Able to understand and follow policies and procedures of the department • Required to work and live on Ambergris Cay with rotated weekends off. Salary Scale: $8.00 per hour paid fortnightly.
Closing Date for Applications is Tuesday September 11, 2012 Applications must be 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
and committee members in awe, he was contracted immediately after for the opening of the 2012 Red Rose Ball. The Red Rose Ball is a charity fundraiser that sees all proceeds benefiting the Grand Bahama AIDS Awareness Committee in Freeport, Grand Bahama. Each year, the gala is held under the patronage of Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas and the First Lady. Under the theme: ‘Las Vegas Cabaret Charity Ball’ – the black-tie charity affair will take place November 3rd, 2012 in a continued collaborative effort with Partners whom have taken a stand in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Grand Bahama, at the Radisson Grand Lucayan Resort’s Grand Ballroom. The evening will see an opening fashion showcase by Saint George
Kazz Forbes
Fashion House, Prime Minister Perry Christie as Key Note Speaker and will feature Harold Melvin's Blue notes of Philadelphia, Jullion Collie's New Wave Dancers, Miss Talented Grand Bahama 2012, Patricia Sweeting and The Matrix House Band. Forbes’ work is featured on: www.SaintGeorgeFashionHouse.com and www.KazzForbes.com
1 LABOURER
To work 5 days per week Salary $5.50 per hour Please call Davis Walkin at 333-1778 F CHAMBERS A modern law firm in the Turks and Caicos Islands seeks 1 QUEENS COUNSEL DEFENCE ATTORNEY (25 years + experience) 1 SENIOR DEFENCE ATTORNEY (20 years + experience) 1 DEFENCE ATTORNEYS (10years + experience) 1 DEFENCE ATTORNEYS ( 5years + experience) Specialty: all aspects of criminal and civil practice, in particular: Corruption Fraud Money Laundering Bribery Defending Civil Recovery Claims All resumes and cover letters should be sent to: Unit 007 SDR Complex 176 South Dock Road P.O. Box 666 Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands hr@fchamberslaw.com
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Page 11
SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
LOCAL NEWS
PDM unveils constituency candidates BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
The Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) unveiled its full roster of candidates for the November 9 General Elections, and that party believes it has the more exciting bunch. The 10 candidates were presented before the media and a room full of jubilant party faithfuls at the PDM headquarters in Providenciales on Monday, August 27. Prior to arriving at the location, the Leader Oswald Skippings took the team on a motorcade along the streets of that island. With the exception of Ashwood Forbes, Delroy Williams and Sean Astwood, the majority of the candidates are first time entrants. The list of candidates reads: Derek Rolle - Electoral District number 1 (Grand Turk North); Edwin Astwood Electoral District 2 (Grand Turk/Salt Cay) seat; Edith Cox - District 3 (South Caicos); Ashwood Forbes District 4 (Middle Caicos, North Caicos, Parrot and Parrot Cay and Pine Cays); Ezra Taylor – District 5 (Leeward/Long Bay); Sonny Forbes – District 6 (the Bight); Isaac Oral Selver – District 7 (Cheshire Hall/Richmond Hill); Goldray Ewing – District 8 (Blue Hills); Sean R. Astwood – District 9 (Five Cays); and Vaden Delroy Williams – District 10 (Wheeland). In officially presenting the candidates to the country, Leader of
the Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) Oswald Skippings indicated that the team represented the crème de la crème of local politics, since they were chosen from a pool of highly qualified and dedicated individuals. Describing the group as the ‘Magnificent 10’, Skippings said that process of choosing the batch was to ensure that electors were presented with the best crop of individuals that the country had to offer. “We have been active foot soldiers for the past weeks, searching, listening and learning and feeling the pulse of the people, throughout the length and breadth of the Turks and Caicos; trying to ascertain who are those persons that they desire to represent their interest and the interest of their country. We have been to the streets of South Caicos and North Caicos, Grand Turk, (and) Provo. We did what was necessary, because you deserve the best and nothing but the best,” Skippings assured. All the candidates exuded confidence that they would be taking home the bacon on the PDM ticket. “I will bring that seat home for the PDM”, Rolle said. Edwin Astwood said that he was confident that the PDM would form the next administration, since the people were solidly behind him and his colleagues. “I believe that the next Member of Parliament for Grand Turk South and Salt Cay, come November 9, will be me. I want you to know that it is not Grand Turk’s time, is not Salt Cay’s time, it is not South Caicos’ time, it’s
$3000 REWARD
Payable for the return of two (2) large wooded bathtubs (manufactured by Hinoki) along with information leading to the arrest of those responsible for the theft of same. These items were stolen from a villa located in the Turtle Tail area recently. Please call 231 4669 with any information. a The reward will be payable upon successful recovery of the items along with the arrest of those responsible.
not Provo’s time, it’s not PDM time or PNP’s time; Turks and Caicos, this is your time,” Astwood said. Though acknowledging that the South Caicos seat would be difficult to log in the PDM column, Cox believed that he she could land it for that party, and affirmed that she would make every effort to ensure that that happens. “People told me, once they heard that I was nominated (to contest the South Caicos seat), that it is hard in South Caicos (to win the seat). And I appreciate the challenge, and I intend on November 9, 2012, to let the Turks and Caicos know it is not impossible,” Cox reiterated. Ashwood Forbes was very confident that he would take the District 4. He told the gathering that he had defeated former premier Mike Misick for the seat, and vowed to take it again for the PDM. “I can tell you that I, Ashwood Leon Forbes will bring home that seat for the PDM. I defeated the uncle (Mike Misick) already, now it’s time to defeat the nephew (Donhue Gardiner,” Forbes said. Taylor, for his part, said that the simple instructions given to him, by constituents was to simply defeat his opponent Akierra Misick. “Just 72 hours ago, I received certain instruction. The instruction was simple and straightforward – win Electoral District 5. And for everyone, who knows Ezra ‘Ringo’ ‘Tyrone’ Taylor, he does not fail on missions,” Taylor said. Sonny Forbes said that the Bight
sit would be his because he had several things going for him: “The Almighty God by my side, my wife, the PDM Party and my friends.” Selver noted that he would not let the PDM down for putting their confidence in him. “I am ready. I am looking forward to the challenge, and believe me; Cheshire Hall (Richmond) will bring the seat home for the PDM,” he said. Goldray Ewing, brother of PNP Leader, Dr. Rufus Ewing, said election day would be a mere formality to confirm his win, since the seat was virtually pocketed already by the PDM. “I am supposed to be representing Blue Hills, but that is already in the bag. We are looking for seven-plus seats to make the government, and I know that we can win it because Blue Hills is already won,” he said. Astwood declared that Five Cays would once again be in the corner of the PDM based on the response from the citizens of the district. “I believe in one nation under God, and also believe that this country must be governed by the Peoples Democratic Movement. If you begin to watch the polls, every poll every week would say that Five Cays belongs to the Peoples Democratic Movement,” Astwood said. In the meantime, Williams told the gathering that Wheeland all should rest assured that he would snare that seat for the PDM. He said despite the constituency being altered, he would still be carrying it home that constituency on a PDM ticket.
Page 12
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
LOCAL NEWS
SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
Local medical students to benefit from Global University of Medicine and Public Health BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
The establishing of the Global University of Medicine and Public Health (GU-MED) in the Turks and Caicos should not only come as good news for the local economy but also students, at least two of whom would be granted scholarships each year to kick-start a career in medicine and public health. To be cited at the Prestigious Properties-owned building in the touristy Grace Bay, Providenciales, GU-MED, which should open its doors next fall, had reportedly committed to an initial two local scholarships per year. Deputy Chairman for the local medical establishment, Dr. Carlton Mills, said that the decision to grant local students the scholarships came out of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Government and the school. He said however, that the number could increase. “As part of our Memorandum of
Understanding, there are provisions for local scholarships. I think we are looking at initially two per year but it can increase,” Mills said. Mills told The SUN that work to prepare the site had already begun and should complete early next year. After that process, Mills said that they were looking at a seven-month period within which to outfit the institution. He said that leading up to opening of the school, individuals from the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and other Health Professions (CAAM-HP), would make a number of visits, to assess its progress of conformity. “We have gotten the provisional accreditation from the accredited body in the Caribbean, and we are going to move the process forward. That is, we are starting with the architectural work, which is going to be at Prestigious Properties. Once that is completed, which should be early next year, at least we are looking at a six to seven-month timeframe, the authority the authority
AMBERGRIS CAY FACILITIES LTD
POSITION AVAILABLE Ambergris Cay Facilities Ltd is seeking a suitable applicant to fill a post on Ambergris Cay. The available post is for a:
GENERATOR TECHNICIAN MECHANIC
Daily tasks will include, but are not limited to: • Overseeing all electrical maintenance operations of Prime Power Generators on Ambergris Cay. • Providing full maintenance services as a certified Level three (3) Power Generator Technician and an authorized supplier and dealer of Cummins Power Generation. • Cooperating and coordinating closely with the Employer and Cummins Power Generation so as to ensure the efficient functioning of all generators. • Any other related duties as may be required to ensure the smooth operation of the Prime Power Generators. Requirements: Successful applicant must: • Highly technical - possessing a Level three (3) Power Generation certification authorized by Cummins Power Generation • Have at least five (5) full years of direct experience in servicing Prime Power Generators manufactured by Cummins Power Generation. • Be reliable, hard working and enthusiastic • Be attentive to details • Be able to work under little or no supervision • Produce a clean Police Record Salary: $25,000 to $30,000 per annum.
Closing Date for Applications is Tuesday September 11, 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
– CAAM-HP will return to do a site visit before we can admit students. And once they have set aside that we have met all the requirements in terms of labs, facility etcetera, then they would give us the green light to admit students,” Dr. Mills said. In terms of accommodation, Mills said that his organization was working in tandem with Horton’s Realty, to acquire such facilities. “We will be looking for suitable accommodation within the community, because we are looking for it to be a trickled down economic impact. We are going to start with 20 students and these are going to be professional people, and then we are hoping to have 100 students every semester. So, at least for a year, it is going to be 300 students. The Turks and Caicos Islands are one step closer to having its own medical school to train up to 100 students per semester in medicine and public health. GU-MED was granted authority from CAAM-HP to complete refurbishment and fitting of the school in the Prestigious Properties
building on Grace Bay Road, the governor and school officials announced August. 14. On its approval, the $8.4 million investment, is expected to open to its first 20 students in the fall of 2013 The annual tuition is expected to be $28,500, which school officials said was highly competitive in comparison to such institutions. The school will also provide opportunities for local students through scholarships. As part of the program, students will be required to do community service throughout the islands, especially in the family islands where health care is not as readily available. In addition to four-year medical degrees, an Advanced Standing Program for M.D. degrees will be offered to qualified physician assistants, nurse practitioners and qualified International Medical Graduates from approved World Health Organization schools. Clinical rotations will be conducted in accredited hospitals in the U.S., Caribbean and the U.K. It will also offer master’s and doctorate degrees in public health.
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Page 13
SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
LOCAL NEWS
Skippings vows to fight government corruption BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
If any of the candidates selected on the Peoples Democratic Movement’s ticket has entered the political arena to enrich themselves through corrupt means, it is best that they declare their hand and exit the race and that organization now. This was the overtly sound warning espoused by that party’s leader, Oswald Skippings, while officially presenting the 10 constituency candidates to members of the media and a packed room of party faithful at the PDM headquarters in Providenciales on Monday, August 27. The 10 constituency candidates now being presented, completes the slate of 15 country-wide for the November 9 general elections. The five At Large candidates were named in a separate presentation at party headquarters some weeks earlier. Skippings told the candidates in
PDM Leader Oswald Skippings speaking at the presentation of constituency candidates.
front of the jubilant supporters that his leadership would not hold its nose and watch corruption run amok in his party, but was prepared to stamp it out even before it began to produce a sprout. “As magnificent as we all are, there is not a low tolerance level in this party for sluggishness, apathy, compromise on principles and ethics,
Ambergris Cay Facilities Ltd.
POSITIONS AVAILABLE
Ambergris Cay Facilities Ltd is seeking to employ someone to work ON A MONTH TO MONTH BASIS to fill a post on Ambergris Cay. The available post is for a:
FIRE FIGHTER/SECURITY OFFICER
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: • Enforce procedural rules and regulations of Ambergris Cay. • Ensure the personal safety of guests, staff and property at Ambergris Cay. • Maintain security and safety for assigned areas and working knowledge of the locations of various departments, buildings, access routes and admitting requirements. • Operate and monitor security Cameras, control panels, alarms and related security equipment to provide area and visitor surveillance. • Patrol assigned areas including parking and back of house areas, while checking for suspicious occurrences and enforcing relevant rules and regulations. • Check employees entering and departing Ambergris Cay. • Maintain shift logs and records of occurrences and complete necessary paperwork. • To respond to both airport and domestic fires and emergencies • Conduct fire safety inspections of all property • Perform designated training activities in line with OTAR 140 standards • Act as first responders to the Ambergris Cay ‘Emergency Plan’ • Maintain all Fire fighting vehicles and equipment KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND QUALIFICATIONS: • General knowledge of routine security rules and procedures.
but rather there is a no tolerance level for such undesirable qualities. It is my duty to put you on notice; there will be no get rich quick schemes at the expense of this country, there will be no land grabbing contest, there will be no under the table deals that leave the country broke while we get filthy rich with bank accounts all over the globe. All that ceased in 2009 when the PNP left office. “Let us not lose sight of our goals and be sidelined by selfish desires and greed. That must not be tolerated. If there is anyone here that is so inclined, pack your bundle now and leave. Leave while the leaving is good…without embarrassment to yourself, to your party or to your government,” Skippings advised. “We are here to serve our country, not to rape it. We are here to build our country, not to destroy it and tear it down,” he said, while stressing that the PDM would ensure that the citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands, including the youth, get a secure future. Skippings told his fellow
candidates that he was not against someone getting rich, but they should do so through the property established channel. “Yes, you can all get rich and prosperous. But get rich honestly and legitimately, by hard work and the sweat of your brow. Not by compromising principles or robbing the people and robbing the country,” Skippings emphasized. The PDM leader also challenged his charges to make more of the people become not only employees and employers, but entrepreneurs as well. He said that a PDM government would, rekindle the economy, restore scholarships for the young people of the country, so that they would be able to have a bright and prosperous future. “We are here to revive our economy in creative and innovative ways and make this country not just a leader in the region but the entire world. We must bring back the prosperity that we have become accustomed since 1995, under the local Peoples Democratic Movement,” he said.
• Ability to interact and communicate with people. • Ability to write clear, concise reports. • Ability to stand or walk for extended period of time. • Two (2) years of general experience in security. • High School Diploma or equivalent combination of experience and education. • Basic Aerodrome Firefighter certificate • A certified Firefighter • At least two (2) years experience as a Firefighter • Evidence of an unblemished disciplinary record • References from the CFO and DCFO of any previous Fire Service organization • A Civil Aviation Authority medical certificate • Current First Aid certificate REQUIREMENTS: 1. Excellent oral and written communication skills, and advanced computer skills required. 2. Must be physically fit. 3. Must be able to work under little or no supervision 4. Must possess a valid TCI driver’s license. 5. Must produce a clean Police Record 6. Must be reliable, hard working and enthusiastic 7. Required to work and live on Ambergris Cay with rotated weekends off. Salary: $23,000 - $25,000 per annum. Applications must be submitted to: Closing Date for Applications is Tuesday September 11, 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
Page 14
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
LOCAL NEWS
Fires, traffic crashes keep firefighters busy Fire Between January and August of this year, the domestic Fire and Rescue Services responded to 85 reports of fire and or rescue missions on that island with the month of March being the most times. George Penn, Community Fire Safety Officer, told The SUN that his department made 11 responses in the Month of January. Topping the responses were traffic accident with six, two brush fires, one house/structural fires and rubbish fires. There was one false alarm. There were 10 calls in February, two were motor vehicle fires, two were house/structural fires, two were rubbish fires, two brush fires, one was an emergency aircraft landing and the other was a traffic accident. Sixteen responses were made in March – the highest for a single month. Eight of those responses were courtesy of brush fires; two each were motor vehicle and a fire revisit. There were 14 responses in April. Topping the list were motor vehicle accidents and brush fires with four each. There were two traffic accident responses, one emergency landing, one electricity pole fire, one house/structural fire and one shack fire. Five responses were made in May, two of which were road traffic
George Penn (right), Community Fire Safety Officer, makes a demonstration while members of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force look
accidents and another two comprising brush fires. There was one shack fire. Ten responses were recorded in June, the majority of which were brush fires with three cases. There two house/structural fire, and one each of rope rescue (at the Hole in Long Bay), emergency landing, traffic accident, motor vehicle fire and one rubbish fire. There were also 10 responses in July with three house/structural and brush fires each. There also two traffic accidents, one motor vehicle fire and
one shack fire. Six brush fires, two motor vehicle fires and one traffic accident comprised of the nine responses in August. Brush fire, according to Penn, accounted for the highest number of responses – 30, which was followed by traffic with 16. House/structural damage accounted for 12 of the responses, followed by motor vehicle fires with 11, rubbish fires - 6, emergency landings – 3 and shack fires – 3. Penn told The SUN that in
SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
addition to the Fire Department’s core activities of responding to fires and other hazards, over the period that entity also conducted seminars with stakeholders in the community, with a view to prevent or minimize potential damage to property, injure or loss of life. “On the 27th of August, 2012, I did a Fire Extinguisher Training Course with over 40 members of the Royal Turks & Caicos Police Force, including Deputy Commissioner Mr. Brad Sullivan, Assistant Commissioner Mr. Rodney Adams and other senior officers from various departments within the force, like CID, Joint Intelligence Unit, Scenes of Crime and Fingerprint Analysis, Street Crime Unit, Traffic, Financial Crime Unit, Financial Intelligence Unit, Tactical Unit & Firearms, Police Records, Information Technology, Professional Integrity and 911. “The training was long overdue for the officers, not only for their departments but also to assist within their communities. We here at the Turks and Caicos Fire & Rescue Services would like to thank all parties involved who made this training a success. Special thanks to Sergeant Dwayne Baker, who went the extra mile to make sure that everyone was present and on time and everything was in place to commence the drill. “Also thanks to Commissioner Mr. Colin Farquhar, Deputy Commissioner Mr. Brad Sullivan and Assistant Commissioner Mr. Rodney Adams for seeing the need for such training and also for allowing the officers to take time out of their busy schedule to be a part of something useful and beneficial,” Penn said.
AMBERGRIS CAY FACILITIES LTD POSITION AVAILABLE
Ambergris Cay Facilities Ltd is seeking a suitable applicant to fill an available post on Ambergris Cay ON A MONTH TO MONTH BASIS. The available post is for an:
Job Summary:
ELECTRICIAN
• Responsibility for the upkeep and maintenance of machinery, lodging, phone lines system, in accordance with international standards; • Checking all installation for fire Alarm system and Detection • High voltage maintenance and inspection • Power plant switchgear maintenance • Electrical maintenance of all kitchen and laundry equipments • Electrical maintenance of all pumps and motors • Ensuring spare parts for equipment are on hand for consistent functioning without discontinuity. Requirements - Applicants must be and or have: • At least three (3) years of experience in electrical maintenance • A high school diploma or equivalent • Attentive to details and self-motivated • 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 • Able to understand and follow policies and procedures of the department. • Required to work and live on Ambergris Cay with rotated weekends off. Salary Scale: $31, 000 to $33,000 per annum
Closing Date for Applications is Tuesday September 11, 2012 Applications must be 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
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Page 15
SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
LOCAL NEWS
Coastal Radar Station set for September launch BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
The long wait for the opening of the Coastal Radar Station in Five Cays, Providenciales could soon come to an end, after The SUN has learned that the facility could officially commission into service in September. The purpose of radar station is to detect and alert the authorities of illicit activities on our waters, among them, illegal landing of sloops that set sail from Haiti. This newspaper was told that staff and management for the facility had already been put in place. The launch could take place in the early part of September, a government source said. Rodman Johnson is the supervisor
appointed to run the site, while the six individuals recruited to potentially gain employment at the location had completed their training of the system. The Radar facility, which was conceptualized under the previous administration as a result of the large influx of Haitian migrants making landfall especially on Providenciales, had its ground-breaking early December of 2010. It was announced at the time that the radar facility would have been completed in February of 2011. However, the facility was said to have been dogged by equipment sourcing and other anomalies resulting in the project being stalled for a protracting period. The site is slated to comprise a 40 metre or 131foot lattice tower, an equipment cabin containing all the electronics and operating systems for
the facility. On top of the tower will be an 8.8 metre or 18 foot tower reflecting rotating antenna. It will be geared to sweep 22 nautical miles from its location. The Coastal Radar Station was said to have been conceptualized by Canadian national Fred Skovberg, during the Michael Misick administration. The contract to initiate the project was signed by then Home Affairs Minister, Galmo Williams, on November 2, 2007. In a previous interview, Skovberg pointed out that, in addition to fighting crime, the radar station would be used to monitor general boat traffic in TCI waters, and could also assist in search and rescue operations. He said at the time that even though the radar site should generate a great deal of radiation, it would not pose any
danger to residents, since its 360 degrees scanning capabilities would be curtailed to 180. He explained that the unit would be switched off as it sweeps land, but would resume its scanning mechanism as soon as it rotates towards the sea. Skovberg said that particular site was selected since it was earmarked for a future marine police base, and that it was a good location for sweeping south and north. He said any vessel that enters the Turks and Caicos Islands, would likely pass that particular location, while making the point that almost all foreign vessels ended up at South Dock. He said too that based on the radar station’s wide sweeping range, which covers from beyond Chalk Sound to Long Bay, it would be virtually impossible for anything to pass undetected.
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.
TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION
Public Statement Re: Grand Palm Ltd
Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands, BWI – 28th August 2012 - The Turks and Caicos Islands Financial Services Commission (TCIFSC) considers it necessary to issue this public warning in order to protect the public interest, and the interests of any of the customers and creditors of Grand Palm Ltd, and further to make the general public aware that Grand Palm Ltd. is no longer a compliant licensee of the TCIFSC. The details are:
1. Grand Palm Ltd. was issued an Investment Dealers License pursuant to the Investment Dealers (Licensing) Ordinance. 2. Grand Palm Ltd. attempted to surrender its license in March 2012. 3. The TCIFSC was unable to accept the surrender of Grand Palm Ltd.’s license due to Grand Palm Ltd.’s failure to comply with Section 9 of the Investment Dealers (Licensing) Ordinance which establishes the procedure for surrender of a license under the Ordinance. 4. The TCIFSC has been attempting to have Grand Palm Ltd. comply with the said Section 9 of the Investment Dealers (Licensing) Ordinance to ensure the lawful surrender of the license. 5. Grand Palm Ltd has failed to lawfully comply with the legislative procedure for surrendering its license 6. The TCIFSC is currently considering all options which may be open to it to either, ensure Grand Palm Ltd.’s compliance with the Section 9 procedure or take other necessary action, legal or otherwise. The TCIFSC further advises that appropriate due diligence should be conducted before engaging in any business arrangement with Grand Palm Ltd. and/or any of its Principals. The TCIFSC will provide updates on any developments in this matter. This Public Warning was issued pursuant to Section 39 of the Financial Services Commission Ordinance.
Grand Turk’s newest Dry Cleaners & Laundry is seeking to fill the following positions:
RECEPTIONIST Responsibilities of the function include, but are not limited to: • Must be able to use computer proficiently • Log and verify name, amount, date and time of laundry items received and returned • Inspecting clothing for any damage and taking appropriate steps to note damage and inform customer prior to servicing. • Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License. • Must be customer service driven • Must be able to read and sort garments as prescribed • Must be able to relate to customers and co workers. • Assist the Presser when necessary Wages: $7.00 per hour LAUNDRY DRY CLEANER/PRESSER Responsibilities of the function include, but are not limited to: • Must have at least five (5) years experience in dry cleaning including chemical spot cleaning and industrial steam pressing. • Must have the ability to use all laundry equipment and chemicals and following appropriate operations and safety standards. • Handling requests for laundry and dry cleaning services in a timely manner • Inspecting clothing for any damage and taking appropriate steps to note damage and inform customer prior to servicing; and performing tasks for an extended amount of time in possible high temperature conditions. • Must have a general knowledge of all cleaning equipment mechanics and connectivity • Assist the receptionist when necessary Wage: $9.00 per hour
Requirements for all Applicants: • Hard working team player with excellent customer service skills • Willingness to work weekend and holidays as required. • Must be able to work with limited supervision • All positions may perform additional duties as assigned based on business needs that may be outside the scope of normal duties. Submit applications to: Lapels Dry Cleaning Pond St. Grand Turk LapelsTCI@tciway.tc 649-231-0978
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LOCAL NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
Strong international response to TCI Food and Wine Festival BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
The preparation for the second Annual Turks and Caicos Islands Food and Wine Festival is in high gear as the country prepares to be graced with a throng of celebrity chefs and the some of the best wine makers on the planet. The event will be kicked off on November 1, with the exclusive welcome dinner, which promises to be a five course meal prepared by celebrity chefs and wines served by master sommeliers. The ever popular Gourmet Safari will be held on November 2, which is billed to be a culinary adventure, with the participants travelling to some of the finest hotels and restaurants in Galmo Williams of Gilley’s Enterprises addresses the news conference that was held to update the Providenciales to be served with the public on the progress of the TCI Food and Wine Festival. Also in photo (from left) are Nikheel Advani, best culinary delights ranging from of Grace Bay Resorts and a member of the planning committee; Director of Youth Affairs, Angela the most tantalizing appetizers to the Musgrove (partly hidden); Stacy Cox (partly hidden) Executive of the Hotel and Tourism Association and Karen Whitt, President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Hotel and Tourism Association. zenith in main course preparation. Day three will be the Food and “I also want to let you know that, Wine Tasting and Food Fair. On this event was shaping up to be a blowout day, guests would not only be able to because there was great deal of already, without the publicity, we taste the best wines on the planet, but interest already been shown from both have promoted this event in Aspen – at the Aspen Food and Wine Festival; would get the opportunity to whet local and overseas. “This is going to be a destination we have promoted this event in New their appetite on some of the most delectable meals in this hemisphere. event. In the early month of York a few weeks ago, with John This will include gourmet chocolate, November, we know that our key Delucci , one o the top chefs in New cheese, sea foods, meat and local markets like New York and Canada York, who would be flying in, and the favourites. They would be able to and the Midwest; it gets a little bit feedback has been tremendous,” choose from a wide selection of cold there. Our weather is always Anvani said. beautiful by nature, so we want to “So far, we have got a lot of vintage international wines. Nikheel Advani, a member of the attract as many people to come for the bookings and for the most part, they TCI Food and Wine Festival whole week, to enjoy Turks and to have taken the whole package. So I Committee, said that plans were enjoy all the offerings from all our have to let all of you know here, book earl;, don’t wait on the last minute. going great for the event. He said the partners.
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Last year was a sell-out, I have a good gut feeling that this year will be a sellout as well,” Advani said. Founding partner Galmo Williams, through Gilley’s Enterprise, said that the TCI had a great deal of fantastic features under its belt, such as fine people, exquisite resorts, fabulous scenery and some of the best wines and food. “And I always thought to myself, if we could just bring this together, we could give our visitors and friends a number of reasons to come here, not only for the fine accommodation, but also the great dining experience with our food and wines. So, I think this event is certainly an event that Gilley’s Enterprises is proud to be a part of,” Williams said. Williams also expressed delight at the little Chefs Programme, for which he gave participating hotels kudus. According to him, the resorts have shown a great deal of seriousness that they were willing to invest in the future of the Turks and Caicos in a number of areas, including culinary, as evidenced in the Little Chefs Programme, which is geared at providing an avenue for budding chefs to hone their skills. Stacy Cox, Executive of the Turks and Caicos Islands Hotel and Tourism Association, expressed delight that her organization was a perennial partner in the venture and would continue to support events geared at promoting destination Turks and Caicos, and its culinary aspect.
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Elaine Whyte, who is accused with Cullen Francis Johnson (back to camera) chat strategy with their attorney Alvin Garland. Both are wanted in the United States and Canada for fraud. They were also charged by the local officials for overstaying their tim
LOCAL NEWS
Accused fraudster, Cullen Francis Johnson is escorted from the courthouse along Old Airport Road, by an Immigration Officer shortly after he and co-accused were remanded in custody by Magistrate Judge Clifton Warner.
Canadians wanted on international fraud captured in TCI Two Canadians, who were wanted in their home country and the United States for money fraud and possible other crimes, were captured in the Turks and Caicos Islands by Immigration officials, after international warrants were issued for their arrests. The two, Cullen Francis Johnson 64 and his female counterpart, Elaine Whyte 69, were arrested by the Turks and Caicos Islands Immigration officers last week at a Providenciales location. The two were charged by the police for overstaying their time in the Turks and Caicos Islands, after checks by the authorities revealed that they possessed outdated documentation. A source told The SUN that Whyte’s passport was also expired. On Tuesday, August 28, when the two appeared in the Providenciales Magistrate’s Court, before His Honour, Clifton Warner, they both pleaded not guilty. Prosecutor Samantha Williams-Glinton, told the court that the two were wanted in other countries for fraud and other crimes, and so, objected to bail. The duo’s attorney Alvin Garland argued for bail nonetheless, but according to Glinton, based on their track record, granting such privilege would be risky. Judge Warner then denied them bail and order that they be remanded in custody until September 7, when the case would
come up for mention. Judge Warner, however, granted their legal representative leave to apply for bond in the Supreme Court. At press time it was not clear whether or not they had taken up the offer. The SUN understands that the two were involved in a series of fraud in the United States and in Canada. However, before the long arm of the law was closing in on them, they pair reportedly fled to the Bahamas, where they were in hiding for some time. They later allegedly fled to the Turks and Caicos Islands after Bahamian police and immigration authorities were notified of their alleged crime and about to zero in on them. Local investigators said that it appeared the two had been living in the TCI for a while, since they purchased a condo at La Vista Azul in Turtle Cove and had blended in the TCI community and leading a normal life. A high-ranking police officer told this newspaper that this was not the first time that persons wanted on international warrant came to the Turks and Caicos Islands and remained under the radar for long periods of time. “Some time ago there was this father and son – Canadians – who came to Provo and opened an insurance company and were operating for a long time, and no one
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knew that they were wanted back in their country for crimes. After we learned from overseas that they were wanted, by the time we got their home and business place, they already fled the country it seemed. We came to the conclusion that they must have
received some tip-off that the police were coming for them,” the source said. In the meantime, it is unclear as to whether or not the international authorities have been notified of the pair’s apprehension.
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LOCAL NEWS
SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
Conch Farm owners suing Turks and Caicos Government for $50million The owners of the Conch Farm will be filing a $50million breach of contract civil lawsuit against the Turks and Caicos Islands Government. An official from Trade Winds Industries Limited, the owners of the Conch Farm, told the SUN: “ As a direct result of false and misleading public statements by Governor Ric Todd regarding the TCIG Development Agreement effecting the Caicos Conch Farm, as well as the persistent and bad faith procrastination by the current British Administration in addressing those issues, Trade Wind Industries Limited, owners and operators of the Caicos Conch Farm, have directed TCI litigator Monique Allen of Saunders & Company to file a $50 million breach of contract civil lawsuit against the TCIG and British Crown. The TCIG & Crown will find that refusing to communicate is a poor conflict resolution strategy. Earlier this week, Governor Ric Todd says the Conch Farm owners are responsible for its closure, not the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG). Todd said TCIG has completed all the legal and documentation requirements needed for the development to go ahead in line with the Development Agreement.
However, he said, the developer is now attempting to alter the terms of the Development Order by adding more items requiring duty concessions, and also to expand the development to include operations not included on the Development Agreement. “The developers were asked to make a business case for the additional concessions and the fish farming operations but have failed to do so,” the Governor added. Trade Wind Industries Ltd, the owner of the Conch Farm in Providenciales, issued a statement last Sunday saying that in early August this year, after 28 months of efforts, they secured a Letter of Intent from a qualified long term lender for $15 million in financing for the redevelopment of the Caicos Conch Farm. They said that subsequent to the failure of the TCIG to fulfill its obligations, the letter of intent from the lender to TWI has been withdrawn, forcing the Conch Farm to close. At a press conference this week, Governor Todd said Trade Winds Industries that was being unreasonable in the matter. He stated: “The developers have freehold of this land. As I have no window into a man’s heart I cannot speculate on their motives. What I can
say is that, the Interim Government will do everything in its power to ensure that this land is used for farming conch and nothing else,” Governor Todd asserted. Todd said that the developers came back to TCIG after the original agreement was signed and said they wanted more concessions, and in reply the Interim Administration requested a business case to justify the request for added concessions. “A group of developers/investors said they want to set up a conch farm. So in 2010 the Interim Government made a development agreement with these people that they would set up a conch farm in return for a number of concessions from the TCIG. Concessions equal taxpayers’ money (and) acquisition of land. “What happens is that a development agreement is then turned into a legal document called the development order. A development order was negotiated; it was then signed in June 2012. The development order which was signed was agreed by the developers,” the Governor said. He added: “Shortly after, when the ink was barely dry, the developers came back to us and said, ‘we want more concessions, than those which were in the development order to which we agreed’. We said that’s fine, but please,
give us a business case explaining why. They never did, and they then went on to the airwaves and announced they were closing (the farm) because of TCIG.” In response, the TWI directors said Governor Ric Todd is very misinformed. They said the TWI Development Agreement that Governor Ric Todd refers to has always included the right for TWI to farm “finfish”. According to TWI: “If Governor Todd or any of the members of his staff had bothered to read the Development Agreement rather than rely on information supplied to them by others, they would be fully aware of this fact. In addition, TWI has asked the present administration for no concessions whatsoever. TWI has asked only that the Crown & TCIG honor the Development Agreement and supplemental concessions granted in writing by former Governor Gordon Wetherell. The Crown & TCIG have refused to respond. The Chairman of the TWI Board has repeatedly requested an audience with the Attorney General’s Office or the Governor’s Office but no reply has been forthcoming. It appears that the Crown & TCIG do not wish to be confused with the actual facts.”
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LOCAL NEWS
Beaches Turks & Caicos’ Got Talent! Beaches to showcase Turks & Caicos talent in Jamaica Team members at Beaches Turks & Caicos lit the Liquid Night Club on fire last week as finalist strutted, sang and danced their way to the 2012 Sandals Resorts International ENCORE regional finals. Launched in 2003, the ENCORE competition was created to showcase the vast array of talents present within the company. ENCORE, which stands for Entertainment Now Creates Opportunities Rewarding Excellence, is the brainchild of Sandals’ Creative Director Weston Haughton. It is the ultimate entertainment production where Sandals & Beaches team members get an opportunity to showcase their talents and be rewarded in three categories Male /Female Singer, Male/Female Model and Best Dancer. Codero Cash and Katrina Cooper emerged as top Male and Female vocalist as they sang their way into the hearts of judges with their amazing vocals. While, Shedlene Pubin and Tankko Clarke strutted their way to the top with their model behaviour by showcasing their perfectly toned bodies in two wardrobes which included swim wear and casual attire. Ariel Marte’s dance skills landed him at the top of the chart for his dance Act. The talented dancer performed a number he choreographed for the competition, beating out both his male and female competitors. The tough responsibility of judging fell upon TCI Song bird Barbara Johnson, fashion designer Kazz Forbes, beauty consultant Michelle Swann and Director of Culture David Bowen who commented on the event by saying; “I was very surprised at the high level of talent among staff in departments other than Entertainment,” he concluded, “I am glad we get to showcase our local talent at an international level, I am confident that these 5 local talents will
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do a good job representing Turks & Caicos at the regional contest.” General Manager Donald Dagenais also expressed his excitement to have the 5 local contestants compete regionally for the top title, He said, “ENCORE created a platform for our talented team members at Beaches Turks and Caicos to showcase talents across several areas of the performing arts,” he continued, “Beaches Turks & Caicos realized the need to show these local talents and has created an avenue to not only perform at regional level but also to reward participating team members for their abilities.” Beaches and Sandals International Encore will take place at Sandals Whitehouse European villages & Spa
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Youth Director lauds resorts that cater to Little Chefs Director of Youth Affairs, Angela Musgrove is singing the praises of several local hotels, which have been partnering with the Department of Youth Affairs to prepare the country’s youth for the world of food preparation through the Little Chefs Programme. The SUN caught up with Musgrove on Tuesday, August 28, at Grace Bay Club in Grace Bay, where a news conference to update the media on the preparation for the Turks and Caicos Islands Food and Wine Festival to be held in November, was held. She said that through the Little Chefs Programme, former participants were either furthering their studies locally and abroad or honing their skills in local Two of the participants in the Little Chefs Programme - Aaron Robinson and Danielle Forbes (in front) – seize a photo moment with hoteliers, chefs and sponsors of the upcoming Caribbean Food and establishments with the aim of Wine Festival, following a news conference at the Grace Bay Club. Seated at right is Angela climbing the ladder to culinary Musgrove, Director of Youth Affairs. success. “The Little Chefs Programme is Association on the venture, and Beaches is one of the main ones who designed to foster an appreciation for through them, we have been able to do that. Every year, Beaches has a Culinary Arts among young persons. get the young persons, to work with slot on their calendar for a space in So those who have an interest in some of the top chefs on the island their resorts for Little Chefs. Grace cooking and culinary, trying to figure (of Providenciales); and they have Bay Club and a few other resorts are working with them also part of the Little Chefs out whether or not they want to do a been career in that area, the programme apprenticeship-style, teaching them programme, which we are thankful for. provides an opportunity for them to new skills. “We have about five or six “We have some successes. There feel that out. And so, we have partnered with the Turks and Caicos resorts, which have opened their are persons, who started out in the Islands Hotels and Tourism doors to take on the Little Chefs. Little Chefs Programme, now
SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
studying at universities to become full time chefs and other working here locally in resorts and other areas. We are hoping that out of this year’s batch, a number of them will decide to pursue that profession, and that we can encourage the same way we encourage others who decided that that is what they want to do,” Musgrove said. She said that Little Chefs participants recently came off a week-long summer camp, where they got the opportunity to gain insight into a number of foods and their preparation. She said that through-out the year, the Youth Department in collaboration with the Hotel and Tourism Association would be having a number of events that would include Little Chefs, with the aim of giving them the opportunity to hone their skills. She said the Little Chefs would be featured in the upcoming Food and Wine Festival. “During the summer holidays, they did the culinary camp. So now that everybody is back from vacation and school would be open again, what we would be doing is working and schedule for some of the Little Chefs to be working along with the chefs who participated in the summer camp. “This is the third year that the Little Chefs would be participating in the Food and Wine Festival. The little Chefs are going to partner with the participating resorts, and they would be actually assisting them with preparing the meals for the Caribbean Food and Wine Festival,” Musgrove said.
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Hip-hop mogul Chris Lighty dies in NYC at 44 NEW YORK — Chris Lighty, a hiphop mogul who helped the likes of Sean "Diddy" Combs, 50 Cent and Mariah Carey attain not only hit records, but also lucrative careers outside music, was found dead in his New York City apartment Thursday in an apparent suicide. He was 44. He was found at his home in the Bronx with a gunshot to the head and was pronounced dead there, police said. No note was recovered, but a 9 mm handgun was found and there was no sign of forced entry, said Paul Browne, New York police spokesman. The shooting appears to be selfinflicted, authorities said. Lighty had been a part of the scene for decades, working with pioneers like LL Cool J before starting his own management company, Violator. But he was in the midst of a divorce and had been having recent financial and personal troubles. Twitter was abuzz with condolences just hours after the body was found around 11:30 a.m. "R.I.P. Chris Lighty," Fat Joe posted on his account. "The man that saved my life!" Diddy wrote: "In shock." Rihanna posted: "Rest peacefully Chris Lighty, my prayers go out to family and loved ones! Dear God please have mercy." And Mary J. Blige wrote: "U never know what can send a person over the edge or make them want 2 keep living. take it easy on people." 50 Cent said in a statement issued through his publicist that he was deeply saddened by the loss. "Chris has been an important part of my business and personal growth for a decade," he said. "He was a good friend and advisor who helped me develop as an artist and businessman. My prayers are with his family. He will be greatly missed." Lighty was raised by his mother in the Bronx as one of six children. He ran with a group called The Violators, the inspiration for the name of his management company, according to the company website. He was a player in the hip-hop game since he was a kid DJ. He rose through the ranks at Rush Management — mogul Russell Simmons' first company — before eventually founding Violator Management in the late 1990s. "Today, we lost a hip-hop hero and one of its greatest architects," Simmons tweeted. Lighty's roster ranged from Academy Award-winners Three 6 Mafia to maverick Missy Elliott to upand-comer Papoose and perpetual star Carey. He made it his mission not so much to make musical superstars, but
Chris Lighty
rather multifaceted entertainers who could be marketed in an array of ways: a sneaker deal here, a soft drink partnership there, a movie role down the road. In a 2007 interview with The Associated Press, Lighty talked about creating opportunities for his stars — a Chapstick deal for LL Cool J, known for licking his lips, and a vitamin supplement deal for 50 Cent. "As music sales go down because kids are stealing it off the Internet and trading it and iPod sales continue to rise, you can't rely on just the income that you would make off of being an artist," he said at the time. Survivors include his two children. He and his wife, Veronica, had been in the process of divorcing. The case was still listed as active, but electronic records show an agreement to end it was filed in June. He was also having financial trouble. City National Bank sued Lighty, whose given name is Darrell, in April, saying he had overdrawn his account by $53,584 and then refused to pay the balance. The case was still pending. He also owed more than $330,000 in state and federal taxes, according to legal filings. His tax problems were much steeper a year ago, but he cleared away millions of dollars in earlier IRS liens last October, after selling his Manhattan apartment for $5.6 million. Larry Mestel, the CEO of Primary Wave Music, the entertainment company that created the joint venture Primary Violator management last fall with Violator Management, said: "We are extremely shocked and sadden by this tragic news. Chris was a friend, business partner and most of all, an icon, role model and true legend of the music and entertainment industry. He will be missed by many and we send love and support to his family."
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ENTERTAINMENT
SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
Rihanna surprises her mother Monica with a new luxury five-bedroom mansion during Oprah interview There were plenty of tears on Rihanna's highly-anticipated interview on Oprah's Next Chapter. The 24-year-old singer broke down when she opened up to the talk show queen about her relationships with former boyfriend Chris Brown and her estranged father. But there were also plenty of happy moments, and one huge surprise during the one-hour special. Rihanna shocked her beloved mother Monica Braithwaite when she gifted her with a brand new five bedroom home in Barbados. And of course sneaky Oprah, who is known for thrilling numerous guests on her talk show with grand gestures of generosity, was the perfect person to be in on the act. To make the big reveal, in true Oprah fashion, the talk show host invited Monica to the home under the false pretense that she would be doing an interview alongside her daughter for the show. As Monica arrived at the lavish mansion with her son and Rihanna's brother Rajad and the singer's aunt, she immediately was taken with the gorgeous abode. Looking at her daughter, Monica
Rihanna boght her mother a five bedroom home
was both confused and concerned. 'No I am not pregnant! Stop that. "She is like. Oh what is it,"' Rihanna laughed. Before composing herself once more, it was then that the pop star made the big reveal, turning to her mother and in a serious tone told her: 'I wanted to do this for you for a very long time. You have been such an amazing mother, example, soldier, and you get to walk away with the key to this house tonight.' Looking around shocked, Monica
couldn't help but cry out. 'Oh my goodness, Ohhh... Are you serious? Oh my goodness,' she shrieked, throwing up her hands to her face. 'Yes. This is all you girl. Look around. Look at the pool,' Rihanna said beaming with pride. Monica then realised that the queen of day time television was her very first guest in the home. 'I have to have a picture of you hanging on the wall. My first guest is
Kim Kardashian and Old Navy settle lawsuit over ad
Robin Roberts and her mother Lucimarian Tolliver Roberts
Robin Roberts’ mother dies after Good Morning America anchor heads home to say goodbye These are tough days for Robin Roberts. The Good Morning America anchor's mother, Lucimarian Tolliver Roberts, died Thursday at the age of 88, co-anchor George Stephanopoulos announced on the show Friday. The sad news follows Roberts' announcement that she will be taking a medical leave to undergo a bone-marrow transplant after being diagnosed earlier this year with myelodysplastic syndrome, a disease of the blood and bone marrow. Robin Roberts begins Good Morning America leave one day early The 51-year-old had originally planned to start her leave after today's show but announced Thursday that she'd begin it a day early so she could fly home to Mississippi to be with her ailing mother. On the show Friday, Stephanopoulos said that Robin "wanted to get home a little early to say goodbye to her mom. She made it home just in time." He also described Lucimarian as "a woman filled with so much joy." Lucimarian was the author of the inspirational book My Story, My Song, which featured fond reflections and recollections from Robin.
Kim Kardashian has settled a lawsuit against Old Navy claiming the clothing retailer violated her publicity rights by using a lookalike in an ad. Kardashian sued over the spot in July 2011, claiming the company's use of a model who looked like her might confuse consumers about her actual endorsements, which include a clothing store and shoe line. No details about the settlement were filed with the court. "The lawsuit was resolved to the mutual satisfaction of the parties," the two sides said in a joint statement. The lawsuit was over a commercial titled "Super C-U-T-E," which featured Canadian singer-model Melissa Molinaro. The ad began airing in February 2011 and was still being used in some of the company's promotions months later, Kardashian's lawsuit stated. An attorney for Old Navy said at a January hearing that Molinaro was famous in her own right and her appearance in the ad wasn't intended to draw similarities to the reality TV starlet.
Pippa Middleton debuts as author with party book Pippa Middleton is publishing her first book: A guide to home entertaining. The 28-year-old younger sister to the Duchess of Cambridge, formerly known as Kate Middleton, says that the book is based on her experience in her family's party business and work in an events
Oprah it is amazing!' she gushed. Oprah revealed that Rihanna used her grandmother's fine china as inspiration in decorating the living room in the stunning five bedroom house. After taking her mother for a tour through the abode, the family and Oprah sat down and enjoyed a glass of champagne. Monica told Oprah what made her so proud of her daughter. 'Because she has remained so humble and so close to her family. She is the same Robyn to us. That is what I am very very proud of,' she said. And she revealed to the talk show host that she is 'not yet' pressuring her daughter to find a new man. The family, along with Oprah, then joined in as Rihanna made a toast. 'I want to toast to one, your first trip to my home. Now to her home, to her house. And to family man, to good vibes, to love to happiness, to everybody. Cheers!' she said. Earlier in the interview, in vast contrast Rihanna took Oprah to her old family home where she grew up from the age of five up to 16, when she first left Barbados to pursue a career in music.
company. She said that "Celebrate: A Year of British Festivities for Families and Friends" is a "feel-good book" with practical tips on how to host Britishthemed parties, including recipes, crafts and games. Penguin, the book's publisher, said Thursday the book will come out in late October. Pippa Middleton became a celebrity in Britain after her turn as bridesmaid during Prince William's wedding to her sister in April last year.
Las Vegas burlesque star Holly Madison pregnant Holly Madison, the blonde burlesque performer who worked at Playboy and on reality TV before starring in a Las Vegas Strip show, says she'll be adding a new title to the resume -- mom. The 33-year-old star of "Peepshow" told Us Weekly she's 12 weeks into her pregnancy. Her boyfriend of nine months, Pasquale Rotella, issued an enthusiastic statement Wednesday. "Holly and I are so excited to announce that we are going to be parents," said Rotella, who is CEO of Insomniac Events, organizers of the Electric Daisy Carnival rave. "We're in love and counting down the days until we meet our beautiful baby. I can hardly believe how lucky I am." In May, Madison announced she would finish her run with "Peepshow" at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino on Dec. 30. Show officials say tickets are still available through the end of the year, but they're working with Madison to determine how much of that time she'll be performing in the lead "Bo Peep" role.
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HIGHLIGHTS
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• Government pay cuts and job losses
loom in the Cayman Islands
• Donald Trump sues Caribbean resort
developers
Lobby group formed to push gaming in Bermuda Entrepreneurs in Bermuda have launched a campaign urging residents to end Bermuda’s ban on casinos. According to the Royal Gazette newspaper, Spinning Wheel managing director Steve Simons says gaming would be a shot in the arm for the economy and tourism industry, while helping alleviate unemployment problems. His group, Bermuda Hospitality Gaming and Training Center, is to distribute flyers calling for people to vote in favour of gaming when Premier Paula Cox calls a referendum on the matter. “It’s time to have some jobs in Bermuda. I think that gaming would assist in bringing that to Bermuda — help us get out of debt and get people jobs,” Mr Simons told The Royal Gazette. “I’m not a gambler per se myself, but I like to help with the development of Bermuda. We are just trying to inform people as to the benefits of the industry, to themselves and Bermuda.”
Casinos would create jobs such as security officers, technicians, hosts, hostesses and croupiers, Mr Simons said. “We’re a small Island and we only need so many jobs. People want to work. We have so many dysfunctional youngsters because there’s no opportunities for them.” In June, MPs passed legislation paving the way for a referendum on gaming to take place, with Premier Paula Cox saying the matter would be put to the public “in due course”. Many residents approve of gambling on moral grounds, but Hamilton bar owners have long claimed casinos could help reverse a continuing decline in trade, by offering potential tourists an alternative reason to come to Bermuda. Tourism Board chairman Maxwell Burgess has said relaxing gambling laws is crucial to the National Tourism Plan’s aim to turn Hamilton into a buzzing night-time centre. Mr Simons said casinos would also
Sickout at state-owned ZNS in e Bahamas Amid the growing tension over staff changes alleged to be politically motivated, the Broadcasting Corporation of the Bahamas had more trouble on their hands on Wednesday when sales staff staged a sick-out. According to the Nassau tribune, sources within ZNS claimed the entire department called in sick Wednesday morning. It is not known if the action is connected to claims of victimisation in the news room, but it occurred on the same day the Bahamas Communications and Public Officers Union (BCPOU) was scheduled to meet with ZNS executives to discuss the recent position changes under the company’s restructuring exercise. BCPOU president Bernard Evans said he did meet with ZNS and “they were getting somewhere.” He said talks with ZNS are continuing. As the changes within ZNS’s newsroom officially took effect this week, several union executives were said to be agitating for action to be taken over the recent restructuring. Inside sources say several senior officials under Mr Evans plan to demand that action be taken according to union rules. It is claimed that the staff changes, which
are a part of the company’s restructuring exercise, were politically motivated and amounted to “victimisation.” While not addressing claims of victimisation earlier this month, executive chairman Rev Dr William Thompson said that ZNS’s restructuring was designed to make its television programming more appealing to the public and regain the viewing audience it had lost over recent years. As for the shifting of newsroom personnel, Rev Thompson suggested ZNS was attempting to bring fresh faces to the fore to enhance its nightly news product. “In order to bring a fresh focus to news, several staff adjustments will be made, including new hires to replace those persons reassigned to television production and programming,” he said. But, The Tribune understands that far from being fresh faces, several of the new team members are actually former employees who applied for and accepted severance packages in 2010. They are said to be returning at their old salary levels and and, a number of new senior staff are said to be PLP supporters or former party operatives.
ensure visitors get access to less expensive food, entertainment and travel, explaining: “With gaming, pretty much everything is less expensive, because the industry relies on adults that enjoy themselves.” He acknowledged likely opposition from church groups, but said social pitfalls associated with gambling could be countered by legislation from Government. “It’s not the panacea but it would be nice to have that option. The assets override the deficits.” The flyers carry the headings “It’s time to develop jobs in Bermuda”, “Vote yes for gaming in Bermuda”, and the PLP 2011 Throne Speech slogan: “Let’s build one another together”. “Bermuda has been losing its market share to other destinations that offer hospitality amenities that our
Island does not offer,” they state. “If we look at what this generation of leisure travellers are looking for in their travel destination, we find that they migrate to resort properties that offer all inclusive full range activities that must include gambling as part of a list of things to do. “With the revenues generated, we the people can establish and maintain programmes and initiatives with associated jobs for Bermudians to address unmet financial, socioeconomic, infrastructure and other needs of our Island nation. “We the people of Bermuda need to make a very important decision and vote yes in order to change the financial landscape in Bermuda for many years to come. We need a business model that will establish revenue and create jobs for our local population.” The Bermuda Hospitality Gaming and Training Center aims to train Bermudians as croupiers and help them find jobs in casinos or cruise liners across the world. Its website advertises courses in games including poker, blackjack and roulette.
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CARIBBEAN NEWS
SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
Government pay cuts and job losses loom in the Cayman Islands Some civil servants in the Cayman Islands will be given a much larger pay cut than 3.2 per cent of their salary under budget reduction proposals contained within the Cayman Islands government’s 2012/13 spending plan. According to an article in the Caymanian Compass, Government staff is to be reduced by a “headcount” of some 360 civil servants during a period of five years, on top of the 140 vacant or new positions that have already not been filled. There will also be a “pay freeze” for all members of the civil service. Heretofore unrevealed details of budget cut proposals for the Cayman Islands civil service were made public this week in a statement by Premier McKeeva Bush. The statement was made Monday during the Legislative Assembly’s Finance Committee as a response to some recent media stories Mr. Bush took exception to; calling them “tragedies in reporting”. Of more importance to government workers, however, were previously unknown details contained in the speech of plans to cut the civil service. Mr.
Bush had earlier stressed during a news conference that these were budget cutting plans drawn up and agreed to by the Cayman Islands civil service. Deputy Governor Franz Manderson confirmed that some details of the budget reduction plans had not been shared with government workers prior to the premier’s remarks before the LA’s Finance Committee. Civil servants will receive an across-the-board pay cut of 3.2 per cent in the current budget year, an amount which was just recently restored to them by Mr. Bush’s government. The move is expected to generate some $5 to $6 million in savings during the course of the 2012/13 budget year, which government has earmarked to assist in paying down past service pension liabilities for current public sector retirees. The government has not made full payments into that fund for at least the past three years. Some civil servants will be losing additional pay. Those Caymanian government workers over the retirement age of 60 who continue working for the public sector on contract are able to receive their
pension, as well as a salary for the term of their contract. However, under new civil service rules, those public servants will receive what amounts to a pay cut upon taking up their new contracts. “All fixed term contracts for civil servants over the age of 60 [will] be assessed at point 1 on the salary scale,” Mr. Bush said. What that means is, if a pay grade “J” civil servant was working at pay point 5 on the civil service scale, when they reached age 60 and signed a new contract, they would go back to point 1 of the scale. The reduction could result in thousands or even tens of thousands of lost wages per year, depending on the person’s position on the pay scale. The civil servant would also be in a position to receive their pension while receiving the reduced salary. In addition to the previously announced hiring freeze, which according to Premier Bush means “80 per cent of the posts that were budgeted in the 2012/13 fiscal year” will not be filled, a “pay freeze” for all civil service salaries will be implemented.
Donald Trump sues Caribbean resort developers SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic –American tycoon Donald Trump suspended his signature line “You’re fired!” just long enough to send a strong message to a group of
delinquent developers in the Dominican Republic. “You’re sued!” was the word from The Apprentice star. The 66-year-old billionaire has
slapped Cap Cana S.A. and its owners with a $5.8million-plus suit for allegedly stiffing him on licensing fees to use his name on the Trump at Cap Cana luxury resort, according to a New York Post report. It said the 8,000-acre, oceanfront project was launched in 2007 with sales of the Trump Farallon Estates at Cap Cana, a gated community of 68 lots costing between $3 million and $12 million each. The much-married mogul says he personally appeared at the sales event, and featured the project on the sixth season finale of his TV show The Apprentice.
But the developers abruptly stopped sending monthly sales reports to his Trump Marks Real Estate firm after the start of the 2008 financial meltdown, Trump charges. “Even more egregiously, however, in or about May 2009, Cap Cana claimed that it had squandered the funds that it had received from buyers and lacked sufficient capital to pay Trump Marks any portion of the license fees which were admittedly owed months earlier,” the suit says. Cap Cana didn’t return an email seeking comment, according to the New York Post.
For the ninth year Cuba surpasses two millionthvisitor mark HAVANA, Cuba – Cuba has welcomed its two millionth foreign visitor 20 days earlier than it did in 2011. The was revealed recently Cuban Ministry of Tourism (MINTUR) in a press release that stated that this figure represents an increase of 5.3 percent compared to the same period last year. This increase was attributed to the strategies under the Authentic Cuba campaign, which promotes Cuba through several countries around the world. The ministry added the country was on track to reach its goal of goal of 2.9 million foreign visitors in this year. Cuba has hit and surpassed the two million visitor mark for the last nine consecutive years and continues to place among the top vacation destinations in the Caribbean, the report noted. Canada remains the largest source market for visitors, followed by England, France, Germany, Argentina, Russia and Mexico. Other markets that increase their presence in the period are the Netherlands, Colombia, Chile, Switzerland and Peru. Although the sun and beach tourism still ranks as the most important attraction within the Cuban tourist industry, MINTUR said that it was is working to diversify the cultural and nature tourism products and nautical activities, among others. This initiative also aims to break the United States economic, commercial and financial blockade against Cuba, which prevents American people to visit the island.
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CARIBBEAN NEWS
Fate of Cuban drug convict in Barbados soon to be decided Barbados Prime Minister Freundel Stuart will shortly determine the fate of former Cuban drug convict, Raul Gracia, who remained in prison despite serving out his time on the drug crime. “Mr Garcia, as you know, completed a term of imprisonment as a result of a conviction of the courts here in Barbados. He spent, as far as I can recall, about 15 or so years in prison. Now, since the expiry of his prison term, he has been retained at prison for a considerable time because, there are some complications around his immigration status,” explained Stuart. “We are having some difficulty in finding a country that will take Mr Garcia,” he pointed out. The Prime Minister noted that while the former drug convict is a Cuban national, that Spanish-speaking
Caribbean island’s laws did not allow it, in the present circumstances, to take him. He also observed that two other countries – United States and Colombia — with which he has had connections, were reluctant to accept him as well. “I have heard it said in public that he is a stateless citizen. That is not strictly correct. That may be factually so, but in legal terms, it is not… One of the exceptions under international law in the definition of a stateless person, is a person who has not been convicted of a serious criminal offence, and of course, he falls within that exception,” added Stuart. The prime minister said the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights was in Barbados recently and she made a call with respect to Garcia’s release.
“His concern is that although he has, as it were, paid his debt to society in terms of serving his prison term, that he is still held at a prison. We do not have, or have not had facilities here outside of prison facilities to hold a subject of immigration considerations as long as the prison has had to hold Mr Garcia, because we never contemplated having to face this situation,” argued Stuart. He noted that normally in situations like this, a person would be held at the airport because authorities would already know where the person was being sent. “This is one situation where we don’t know where we are going to send Mr Garcia. As minister responsible for immigration, I have a discretion to determine where persons in Mr Garcia’s position are held,”
Grenada PM has no plans to call snap elections Grenada’s prime minister Tillman “I call upon every responsible Thomas has accused former citizen to think carefully and to act Foreign Minister, Karl Hood, of responsibly surrounding this latest colluding with the opposition New NNP mischief. There is no reason for National Party (NNP) in possibly panic or anxiety,’’ Prime Minister removing his government from Thomas assured. office. “This latest motion is a blatant act of disobedience and dishonour; it is But Prime Minister Thomas highly unpatriotic, reckless, selfhas indicated that he would not be serving and disrespectful of the deterred and has no plans of calling people of Grenada,’’ said Thomas, snap elections. adding that the motion, “for which the “Government will not shirk its NNP must be fixed with constructive responsibility, nor would it be ownership, is planted shamelessly in cheated out of its term in office,’’ the name of greed, money and Thomas told Grenadians in a power.’’ national radio and television The Grenadian leader noted that address Tuesday night. “eight votes are needed for such a “Our resolve is to respect our Grenada’s prime minister Tillman Thomas motion to be passed. The whole democracy and the Constitution nation is therefore looking to see of Grenada. We will maintain the course while whether and who, in the parliament, would join with keeping your best interests uppermost in our minds.’’ the NNP to assist them in accomplishing their goal. Hood, MP for St. George South East, wants the The prime minister charged that Hood’s motion 15-member House of Representatives to vote on a “is unmistakably inspired by the NNP. It is not only intended to deny Grenadians their joy and peace, but motion of no-confidence against the government. He filed the motion with the clerk of parliament it is also motivated by spite and a determination to last Friday. If passed, it could force an early poll and pre-empt any improvement in our economic and the likely defeat of Thomas’ National Democratic financial fortunes.’’ For Grenadians clamouring for jobs and more Congress (NDC), which was elected to office in July economic development, Prime Minister Thomas 2008 after winning 11 seats to the NNP’s four. offered hope with the recent signing of a US$ 8.5 Hood’s filing of the motion has been severely million grant from the People’s Republic of China; criticized by some of his constituency members, who plans for the commencement of work to rebuild the said they were shocked, dismayed and disappointed in National Athletic Stadium and the start of a farms’ the action of the NDC MP who resigned from road project; possible assistance to Grenada from government in May. Qatar; and the expected signing of a cooperation He remains a member of the party and sits on the agreement with Trinidad and Tobago for joint backbenches of parliament, as are three other NDC development and exploitation of hydro-carbon MPs who have either resigned from government or resources. have been fired by Thomas since 2010. Thomas also made direct appeals to the “youth of Thomas joined the criticism of Hood Tuesday, Grenada,’’ and sprinkled his speech with several directly linking the former government minister to the references to God. “As a people of faith,’’ he said, “we have to NNP that failed to gain parliamentary support for a no-confidence motion that the opposition had debated believe that God does not want us to revert to a culture of bad governance, social deficit and morallyin the House of Representatives in May. In his 11-minute speech, the prime minister challenged leadership. The source of our betterment mentioned the NNP 17 times, with reminders of the is definitely not the NNP.’’ On Tuesday morning, in a speech to participants party’s “corruption’’ and “patently reckless and at a youth forum, the prime minister described himself irresponsible’’ borrowing when it formed the “as a soldier for Christ, working in the political government from 1995 – 2008. arena.’’
asserted Stuart. The prime minister revealed that he had received representation from the Cuban’s attorney-at-law David Comissiong regarding his release and relocation to a private residence. “I have been receiving representations from his attorney-at-law, Mr David Comissiong, that private arrangements could be made for Mr Garcia to be accommodated at a pirvate residence in a rural parish where this rural family is prepared to take him at no cost to the government; and they are prepared to take him on such terms as are satisfactory to me,” disclosed Stuart. He told reporters that the alternative was for the Government to ready some kind of accommodation where he could be held in a manner consistent with what his administration considered to be safe and doing no violence to national security. “I am examining the options at the moment. I do not think Mr. Garcia should be held at Dodds Prison indefinitely. He served his prison term and as long as he is there, he is going to be kept under prison conditions. So I don’t think he needs to remain there indefinitely, but at the same time, I have to have regard to all of the other considerations that would attach to putting him at a private facility, just to be managed by a family and so on,” he added. The prime minister insisted that the crime for which Garcia was convicted would have had grave implications for Barbados, had he not been caught and prosecuted. “And one always has to be very careful that one does not delude oneself into believing that some miraculous change has taken place and that sinners overnight have become saints and so on. I intend no injustice to Mr Garcia, but I have to make sure that the national security of Barbados is properly protected,” he declared.
TAYLORS VARIETY STORE SEEKS 1 COOK -$5.50 5 SALES AGENTS $6.50 3 LABOURERS $6.00 1 SALES MANAGER - $8.00 3 DOMESTIC WORKERS - $5.50 Interested persons should Contact 441-0225
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SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
HIGHLIGHTS
• Obama asks NASA for alien update • Boy or girl? Mothers can control outcome
Romney makes his case for the White House: ‘Need jobs, lots of jobs’ TAMPA, Fla. — Mitt Romney launched his fall campaign for the White House Thursday night with a rousing, remarkably personal speech to the Republican National convention and a prime-time TV audience, proclaiming that America needs “jobs, lots of jobs” and promising to create 12 million of them in perilous economic times. “Now is the time to restore the promise of America,” Romney declared to a nation struggling with 8.3 percent unemployment and the slowest economic recovery in decades. Often viewed as a distant politician, he made a press-the-flesh entrance into the hall, walking slowly down one of the convention aisles and shaking hands with dozens of delegates. The hall erupted in cheers when he reached the stage and waved to his shouting, chanting supporters before beginning to speak. “I accept your nomination for president,” he said, to a roar of approval. Then he pivoted into personal details of family life, recounting his youth as a Mormon, the son of parents devoted to one another, then a married man with five rambunctious sons. He choked up at least twice, including when he recalled how he and wife Ann would awake to find “a pile
Mitt Romney and his running mate Paul Ryan at his fall campaign launch
of kids asleep in our room.” He was unstinting in his criticism of President Barack Obama, his Democratic quarry in a close and uncertain race for the White House, and drew cheers when he vowed to repeal Obama’s signature health care law. “This president can tell us it was someone else’s fault. This president can tell us that the next four years he’ll
get it right. But this president cannot tell us that you are better off today than when he took office,” Romney declared. Clint Eastwood, legendary Hollywood tough guy, put the case for ousting Obama plainly moments before Romney made his entrance. “When somebody does not do the job, you’ve got to let ‘em go,” he said to the cheers of thousands in the packed
Russian tycoon Abramovich wins London court battle LONDON — Self-exiled tycoon Boris Berezovsky lost his multibillion-dollar legal battle against fellow Russian mogul Roman Abramovich on Friday after a British judge ruled that he didn't tell the truth in the clash over vast oil wealth. The case in London's High Court sparked broad interest because of its focus on the two oligarchs' personal and business relationship in the chaotic days of post-Soviet Russia. The weeks of testimony included juicy details about their jetset lifestyles that included yachts, luxury vacations and highroller spending. The 64-year-old Berezovsky, a former Kremlin power broker who fell out with Russian President Vladimir Putin, alleged that Abramovich had betrayed and intimidated him into selling his stakes in the Russian oil company Sibneft vastly beneath their true value. Berezovsky had sought more than $5.6 billion in damages. Abramovich had denied the charges. On Friday, Judge Elizabeth Gloster scathingly dismissed Berezovsky's case, calling him "an unimpressive, and inherently unreliable, witness, who regarded truth as a transitory, flexible concept, which could be molded to suit his current purposes." "I regret to say that the bottom line of my analysis of Mr. Berezovsky's credibility is that he would have said almost anything to support his case," Gloster said in a 38-page summary of her judgment. In contrast, she found the 45-year-old Abramovich, the owner of Chelsea football club, to be "a truthful, and on the whole reliable, witness." Berezovsky, who had alleged blackmail and breach of contract, shook his head in court Friday as his defeat became clear. Abramovich did not attend.
Outside the court, Berezovsky accused Gloster of rewriting Russian history. "I am absolutely amazed by what happened today," he told reporters. "Sometimes I have the impression that Putin himself wrote this judgment." A statement issued by Abramovich's representatives said his position had been "comprehensively vindicated by the court." In Moscow, Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed satisfaction with the decision. "It's always pleasant when slander is called by its own name," he was quoted as saying the state news agency RIA Novosti. A mathematician-turned-Mercedes dealer, Berezovsky amassed his wealth during Russia's privatization of state assets in the early 1990s. In return for backing former Russian President Boris Yeltsin, he gained powerful political connections and opportunities to buy state assets at knockdown prices. Berezovsky said he mentored Abramovich, treating him like a son, and founded Sibneft with him and a third partner. Berezovsky claimed that the friendship faltered when he fell out with Putin, at which point Abramovich "intimidated" him into selling his Sibneft shares, at a loss of almost $6 billion. Abramovich said he had paid more than $2.5 billion to Berezovsky for his services as his "political godfather" and reluctantly funded Berezovsky's extravagant lifestyle of yachts and vacation homes because he feared retaliation. The judge concluded that the deal between the two men was that in return for substantial cash payments, Abramovich and Sibneft would enjoy Berezovsky's political patronage and influence, "which was indispensible to the construction of any major business in the conditions of the 1990s."
convention hall. The speech over, Romney was joined by running mate Paul Ryan, then their wives, and finally a stage full of their children and grandchildren. Confetti and thousands of red, white and blue balloons floated down from the rafters. They joined popular gospel singer BeBe Winans on “America the Beautiful.” Beyond the heartfelt personal testimonials and political hoopla, the evening marked one of a very few opportunities any presidential challenger is granted to appeal to millions of voters in a single night. The two-month campaign to come includes other big moments — principally a series of one-on-one debates with Democrat Obama — in a race for the White House that has been close for months. In excess of $500 million has been spent on campaign television commercials so far, almost all of it in the battleground states of Florida, North Carolina, Virginia, New Hampshire, Ohio, Iowa, Colorado and Nevada. Romney holds a fundraising advantage over Obama, and his high command hopes to expand the electoral map soon if post-convention polls in Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin and perhaps elsewhere indicate it’s worth the investment. Romney was often almost gentle in his criticism of Obama. “I wish President Obama had succeeded because I want America to succeed,” he said. “But his promises gave way to disappointment and division.” “This isn’t something we have to accept ,” he said, appealing to millions of voters who say they are disappointed in the president yet haven’t yet decided to cast their votes for his Republican challenger. “Now is the moment when we can stand up and say, ‘I’m an American. I make my destiny. And we deserve better! My children deserve better! My family deserves better! My country deserves better!” Romney’s remarks came on a night when other speakers filled out a week-long portrait of the GOP nominee as a man of family and faith, savior of the 2002 Winter Olympics, savvy and successful in business, yet careful with a buck. A portion of the convention stage was rebuilt overnight so he would appear surrounded by delegates rather than speaking from a distance, an attempt to soften his image as a sometimes-stiff and distant candidate. As for Obama, Romney said, “Many Americans have given up on this president, but they haven’t ever thought about giving up. Not on themselves, Not on each other. And not on America.” The economy is issue No. 1 in the race for the White House, and Romney presented his credentials as the man better equipped than the president to help create jobs. Speaker after speaker testified to the help their received from Bain Capital, the private equity firm that he created — and that Democrats argue often took over companies, loaded them down with debt and then walked away with huge fees as bankruptcy approached.
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WORLD NEWS
Argentine tax agents to track all credit card buys Argentina just made it more expensive for its people to use credit cards outside the country, and more dangerous for cardholders who aren't paying all the taxes they should. One measure published in Friday's official bulletin adds a 15 percent tax every time people make a purchase outside the country using a card issued by an Argentine bank. Another requires the banks to report every credit card purchase — home or abroad — to the tax agency. The moves target Argentines who have discovered that by using credit cards outside the country, they can get around increasingly tight currency controls and shelter their money from soaring inflation. Purchases outside Argentina using peso-denominated cards soared 48 percent in June compared to the year before,
obligating the central bank to send $289 million out of the country in just one month. Overall capital flight soared to $23 billion in 2011. AFIP chief Ricardo Etchegaray, the government's top tax collector, presented the moves as populist measures that would only affect the wealthiest Argentines, and mainly when they travel outside the country — a reduced group of 168,000 taxpayers who charged $1.5 billion in the last 18 months. But a closer look shows the measures go much farther, giving the government powerful new tools to combat widespread tax evasion. Tax and customs agents now will be able to compare what Argentines declare to the customs and tax agencies with what their credit card bills say. If the purchases show people
are living large while claiming to be paupers, they could get in big trouble. "From October onward, (cardissuers) must report in detail all purchases made by cardholders and their co-signers, starting in September, both within and outside the country," said AFIP chief Ricardo Etchegaray, the government's top taxcollector. "With this move, AFIP seeks to assure that taxes are paid by those contributors who are able to pay more." Argentines don't have to declare their income unless they are salaried and make more than $20,000 a year or self-employed and make more than $30,000, so many register with the tax authorities as if they make less than the limit, dealing in cash and trying to keep their income and purchases off the books.
But Argentina also taxes people's accumulated wealth, giving the government license to scrutinize people's private property to an extent that foreigners are ill-accustomed to. People whose incomes don't match their lifestyles can find themselves closed out of the financial system until they come clean. Since November 2011, Argentina's government has sought to stem capital flight by closing down nearly every avenue people have to legally trade their inflationary pesos for U.S. dollars. The black-market peso price has spiked as a result, trading now at 6.37 pesos to the dollar, compared to the official rate of 4.65. That 37 percent gap represents what people with undeclared pesos have to lose while convert their cash to dollars inside Argentina.
GOVERNMENT VACANCY
JOB TITLE: SENIOR CROWN COUNSEL, CIVIL/COMMERCIAL (Grand Turk) SUMMARY OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: An exciting opportunity awaits you in the Turks & Caicos Islands Government Service for the post of Senior Crown Counsel, Civil/Commercial within the Attorney General’s Chambers, Grand Turk Office. The incumbent in this position must be able to provide legal advice to the Government as it relates to a wide range of Government activities, public service matters and provide advice to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force: other than in relation to criminal prosecutions. He/She must be able to conduct or assist in the conduct of civil litigation by and against Government, including preparatory work and appearing as an advocate in civil proceedings before the various courts and tribunals in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The successful incumbent must also be able to provide general legal advice; ensure the execution of international requests for mutual legal assistance in Civil and Criminal Matters and provide advice on Government Contracts, Commercial transactions and prepare their documentation. He/She would also be expected to perform any other duties as may be assigned by the Attorney General. QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE The successful applicant must be qualified and eligible to practice in a Commonwealth Law Jurisdiction or the Republic of Ireland. Experience in Civil and Commercial litigation as well as commercial and contract negotiations and documentation in both private practice and Public Service would be an advantage. This is a senior post with responsibility for junior attorneys and an applicant of less than seven (7) years’ post qualification experience is not likely to be appointed. The division of responsibilities varies from time to time depending upon the volume, nature and complexity of the work being undertaken and the experience of the respective post-holders in the Chambers. The applicant must
also possess a high level of self-confidence, tact, discretion and confidentiality. He/She must also be computer literate with a good working knowledge in the use of Microsoft Word and possess the ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. The position also requires a good knowledge of the workings of Government. The applicant must be courteous and respectful to both office staff and the general public and must also possess good time management skills. SALARY: $44,820.00 per annum Serving officers should apply through their Heads of Department. For person recruited from outside of the Turks and Islands a two or three year extendable contract is offered. Other benefits may include: Housing Allowance, Retention Allowance, Professional Allowance, Telephone Allowance, Transportation Allowance, end-of-contract gratuity of 15% of salary, return passage for family of up to two children under the age of 16 years, duty free on the shipment of personal effects imported within six months of appointment. For more information on the Job Description please contact the Human Resource Management Directorate, Telephone 649-946-2801, Extension: 10318, E-mail: recruitment@gov.tc All resumes with contact information and two letters of reference and a police certificate should be addressed to the Acting Human Resource Director, Human Resource Management Directorate, Church Folly, Grand Turk. Facsimile: 649-946-1582. APPLICATION DEADLINE: 11th September 2012 ONLY SUITABLE CANDIDATES WOULD BE ACKNOWLEDGED.
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WORLD NEWS
SEPTEMBER 1ST - SEPTEMBER 8TH, 2012
UN says Iran accelerates uranium program despite West's nuke fear Iran has doubled the number of uranium enrichment machines it has in an underground bunker, a U.N. report said Thursday, showing Tehran has continued to defy Western pressure to stop its atomic work and the threat of Israeli attack. The U.N. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said in its quarterly report on Iran that the number of centrifuges at its Fordow site -- buried deep underground to withstand any such hit -- had more than doubled to 2,140 from 1,064 in May. The new machines were not yet operating, it said. “… as Iran is not providing the necessary cooperation… the Agency is unable to provide credible assurance about
the absence of undeclared nuclear material and activities in Iran, and therefore to conclude that all nuclear material in Iran is in peaceful activities,” the report said. “The Agency considers it essential for Iran to engage with the Agency without further delay on the substance of the Agency’s concerns,” it added. “In the absence of such engagement, the Agency will not be able to resolve concerns about issues regarding the Iranian nuclear program, including those which need to be clarified to exclude the existence of possible military dimensions to Iran’s nuclear program.” Iran's supreme leader repeated
this week that Iran's nuclear program was entirely peaceful. "Our motto is nuclear energy for all and nuclear weapons for none," Ayatollah Ali Khamenei told a developing nations summit in Tehran. But the expansion in enrichment infrastructure and the increasing in stockpiles of potent nuclear material revealed in the report will do nothing to allay fears or reduce the diplomatic sanctions and pressure on Iran. The report showed that Iran had produced nearly 190 kg (418 pounds) of higher-grade enriched uranium since 2010, up from 145 kg (320 pounds) in May. Iran says it needs this material, which is much purer than fuel needed
for electricity generation, for a medical research reactor, but it also takes it significantly closer to making potential bomb material. The IAEA also expressed concerns about Parchin, a military site south of the capital that it wants to inspect for evidence of past nuclear weapons development. "Significant ground scraping and landscaping have been undertaken over an extensive area at and around the location," it said. Five buildings had been demolished and power lines, fences and paved roads removed, the report said, "extensive activities" that would hamper its investigation if granted access.
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.
GOVERNMENT VACANCY
JOB TITLE: SENIOR CROWN COUNSEL, CIVIL/COMMERCIAL (Grand Turk) SUMMARY OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: An exciting opportunity awaits you in the Turks & Caicos Islands Government Service for the post of Senior Crown Counsel, Civil/Commercial within the Attorney General’s Chambers, Grand Turk Office. The incumbent in this position must be able to provide legal advice to the Government as it relates to a wide range of Government activities, public service matters and provide advice to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force: other than in relation to criminal prosecutions. He/She must be able to conduct or assist in the conduct of civil litigation by and against Government, including preparatory work and appearing as an advocate in civil proceedings before the various courts and tribunals in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The successful incumbent must also be able to provide general legal advice; ensure the execution of international requests for mutual legal assistance in Civil and Criminal Matters and provide advice on Government Contracts, Commercial transactions and prepare their documentation. He/She would also be expected to perform any other duties as may be assigned by the Attorney General. QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE The successful applicant must be qualified and eligible to practice in a Commonwealth Law Jurisdiction or the Republic of Ireland. Experience in Civil and Commercial litigation as well as commercial and contract negotiations and documentation in both private practice and Public Service would be an advantage. This is a senior post with responsibility for junior attorneys and an applicant of less than seven (7) years’ post qualification experience is not likely to be appointed. The division of responsibilities varies from time to time depending upon the volume, nature and complexity of the work being undertaken and the experience of the respective post-holders in the Chambers.
The applicant must also possess a high level of self-confidence, tact, discretion and confidentiality. He/She must also be computer literate with a good working knowledge in the use of Microsoft Word and possess the ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. The position also requires a good knowledge of the workings of Government. The applicant must be courteous and respectful to both office staff and the general public and must also possess good time management skills. SALARY: $44,820.00 per annum Serving officers should apply through their Heads of Department. For person recruited from outside of the Turks and Islands a two or three year extendable contract is offered. Other benefits may include: Housing Allowance, Retention Allowance, Professional Allowance, Telephone Allowance, Transportation Allowance, end-of-contract gratuity of 15% of salary, return passage for family of up to two children under the age of 16 years, duty free on the shipment of personal effects imported within six months of appointment. For more information on the Job Description please contact the Human Resource Management Directorate, Telephone 649-9462801, Extension: 10318, E-mail: recruitment@gov.tc All resumes with contact information and two letters of reference and a police certificate should be addressed to the Acting Human Resource Director, Human Resource Management Directorate, Church Folly, Grand Turk. Facsimile: 649-946-1582. APPLICATION DEADLINE: 11th September 2012 ONLY SUITABLE CANDIDATES WOULD BE ACKNOWLEDGED.
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WORLD NEWS
South Africa uses apartheid-era law to accuse 270 miners of murder JOHANNESBURG -- South African authorities on Thursday invoked a legal move seldom used since the dying days of apartheid in order to charge 270 striking miners with the murder of 34 co-workers who were seen being shot dead in a hail of police bullets earlier this month. Prosecutors have filed papers using a measure called "common purpose", arguing the miners were complicit in the killings since they were arrested at the scene with weapons. Legal experts said the move will likely collapse when a court hearing bail applications for the 270 near the mine resumes sessions next week and lambasted prosecutors for inflaming a tense situation by seeking a mass indictment that will eventually be rejected. Pierre de Vos, a law expert at the University of Cape Town, wrote in a blog that the decision to charge the miners was "bizarre and shocking and represents a flagrant abuse of the criminal justice system, most probably in an effort to protect the police and/or politicians ..." Eighteen years after the country's first free and fair elections, the decision to charge the miners is raising questions about the direction of South Africa's democracy and the rights of the poor in the world's most unequal country. The apartheid state often used this provision to secure a criminal conviction against one or more of the leaders of a protest march, or against leaders of struggle organizations like the ANC," de Vos wrote in reference to the African National Congress, which was then a guerilla group in opposition to the apartheid regime but which is now the ruling party. President Jacob Zuma and the
ANC have faced increasing pressure over the killings, which are the deadliest security incident since apartheid ended in 1994, with many saying the government may be more concerned about protecting its own than miners in shafts. The government has launched a probe into the killings, including the deaths of 10 people ahead of the Aug 16 shooting at Lonmin's Marikana mine, northwest of Johannesburg. It is withholding any police punishment until the investigation is over, which is estimated to be
sometime in early 2013. But after heavy criticism in the South African media, the government appears to be attempting to distance itself from the decision to charge the miners. On Friday, Justice Minister Jeff Radebe said the National Prosecutions Authority (NPA) must explain why the murder charges were brought. "There is no doubt that the NPA’s decision has induced a sense of shock, panic and confusion within the members of the community and the
general South African public. It is therefore incumbent upon me to seek clarity on the basis upon which such a decision is taken," Radebe said. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate, a government watchdog, said it had received nearly 200 complaints from the arrested miners of being assaulted and abused while in custody. Patrick Craven, National Spokesperson for the Congress of South African Trade Unions said his organization was "absolutely outraged.”
Pentagon threatens legal action over bin Laden book The Pentagon warned on Thursday that it was considering legal action against a former U.S. Navy SEAL for material breach of non-disclosure agreements with his first-hand account of the raid that killed Osama bin Laden. In a letter obtained by Reuters, and subsequently released by the Pentagon, the Pentagon's top attorney said the Department of Defense was also considering legal action against anyone "acting in concert" with the author. It hinted that the book's royalties might be subject to government claims. The letter, addressed to "Mark Owen," the pseudonym under which the book was written, identified two separate non-disclosure agreements he signed with the Navy that legally committed him to never divulge classified information, which is a crime. "You are in material breach and violation of the nondisclosure agreements you signed," said the letter by Jeh Johnson, the Pentagon's General Counsel. "The Department of Defense is considering pursuing against you, and all those acting in concert with you, all remedies legally available to us in light of this situation." The author may have hoped to publish the book
anonymously but his identity as Matt Bissonnette was quickly revealed and confirmed independently by Reuters. It was unclear how many others the Pentagon may consider legally culpable, given the broad language in Johnson's letter. A spokeswoman at publisher Dutton, which is an imprint of Penguin Group (USA), did not immediately respond to a request for comment. U.S. officials have said they were surprised by his book, "No Easy Day," which was not vetted by government agencies before its publication to ensure that no secrets were revealed. The letter noted that, under the terms of the nondisclosure agreements, the author had agreed to submit any manuscript for pre-publication security review and to obtain permission before publishing it. The Pentagon pointed out that the disclosure of classified information was a crime and suggested that, under the terms of the non-disclosure agreement he signed, the U.S. government could be entitled to all "royalties, remunerations, and emoluments" from such a disclosure.
Gym denies Gabrielle Douglas's racism claims Gabrielle Douglas, the Olympic goldmedal gymnast, says she was the target of racist bullying at the gym where she first trained. She revealed the claims to Oprah Winfrey on her OWN show, "Oprah's Next Chapter." The Virginia gym, Excalibur Gymnastics, has fired back, denying the allegations. Gabrielle -- who says she prefers to be called by her full name, even though her fans call her Gabby -eventually moved to Iowa to train with Shawn Johnson's Olympic coach. The Olympian told Winfrey in the interview that the girls at the Virginia gym called her a "slave." Gabrielle recalled, "One of my teammates was like, 'Can you scrape the bar?' And they were like, 'Why doesn't Gabby do it, she's our slave?'" She added, "I definitely felt isolated, I
felt 'Why am I deserving this? Is it because I'm black?'" The 16-year-old said she finally left the gym when she was 14: "I was scared at my old gym to show my potential… I was just holding back." Responding on the site Gymnewstics.com, Randy Stageburg, a former senior international elite gymnast who trained at Excalibur, said, "The accusations that are being made against the gymnasts and coaches are just sickening." Stageburg added, "Gabby was never a victim. In fact, many would say she was one of the favorites. I am not saying that she never felt bullied, because when you are in a sport with a bunch of girls, it is bound to happen. However, anything that she may have felt was never about race, and I can
assure you everyone at some point has felt bullied. I never once heard her complain about girls being mean -funny how it is just now coming up." Excalibur Gymnastics CEO Gustavo Maure said in a statement to E! News that Gabrielle is lying. "Is Gabrielle a credible person just because she is an Olympic champion? She is not giving any names or dates, leading us to believe that the accusation is fake," he said. "This wouldn't be the first time that the media has made up a story. Thousands of gymnasts and families have supported our good conduct and our professionalism during the last 30 years." Gabrielle, who is the first AfricanAmerican to win the all-around gold medal in women's gymnastics, withstood critiques about her hairstyle, a ponytail, during the competition. The
Gabrielle Douglas
snarky remarks, Winfrey pointed out, started with African-American women. The talk show host ranted to the teen, "You know why it sickens me? We're the only ones who would care to notice, because the whole world is looking at your athletic prowess, and there are a few naysayers -- haters -who are on talking about your hair." Winfrey added, "I thought your hair was cute. I thought, 'Oh gee, everyone's doing the same hairdo.'"
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HIGHLIGHTS
Apple wins the latest lawsuit in the Apple/ Samsung saga READ MORE ON PAGE 40
American Airlines and US Airways merger talks start NEW YORK — American Airlines and US Airways are one step closer to a potential merger. The companies said Friday they signed legal documents allowing them to confidentially exchange information. But a deal is still far from reality. "It does not mean we are merging — it simply means we have agreed to
work together to discuss and analyze a potential merger," US Airways CEO Doug Parker said in a letter to employees Friday. Such a merger would put the combined airline on par with the world's largest — United Continental Holdings Inc. — and the slightly smaller Delta Air Lines. Parker has been pushing for a
UK economy needs infrastructure stimulus, says BCC The British Chambers of Commerce has called for more government spending on infrastructure as it predicted that UK GDP would shrink by 0.4% in 2012. The BCC also cut its forecast for 2013, from 1.9% to 1.2% growth. The industry body said the eurozone crisis and a sharp rise in food and oil prices posed a continuing threat. The BCC also backed other growth-enhancing measures, such as creating a business bank and Bank of England support for small business borrowing. But it said that the Chancellor George Osborne should press ahead with cuts in benefits, the state pension and the civil service, which it said were needed to retain the confidence of financial markets. The Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, John Longworth, called on politicians to do more to help the economy grow. He told the BBC:"There are only a 150 MPs out of 650 that have ever been in business and only 30 have got any qualifications in science. "We've now got a political class that's divorced from the reality of business and economics." The BCC chief economist, David Kern, said in his latest quarterly forecasts for the UK economy: "As long as the chancellor demonstrates that he is committed to a firm fiscal plan, a moderate fiscal stimulus would be consistent with maintaining strong market credibility." He said that up until now Mr Osborne's efforts had "relied too much on slashing investment" while spending in the rest of the government's budget had continued to grow. He advocated a "large and well thought-out infrastructure programme" financed by government borrowing in order to boost growth. According to TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber, the BCC's call marked "a decisive break from the Treasury line". "There is now a growing consensus that the government's strategy is failing, and the real man-ormouse test is whether the chancellor will relax austerity and invest for growth and jobs," he said. A Treasury spokesman said that the government was "doing everything it can to get the economy moving". The spokesman cited planned major UK infrastructure projects, as well as the Funding for Lending Scheme under which the Bank of England supports bank lending to mortgage borrowers and businesses.
merger since American's parent company, AMR Corp., entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Nov. 29, 2011. American Airlines CEO Tom Horton has said his airline is weighing several options, including remaining independent or merging with one of several airlines, including US Airways Group Inc. In a note to all American Airlines
managers Friday, the airline said it is cutting its expenses in bankruptcy court and is "also now looking at other strategic options that could make the new American even stronger." The signing of non-disclosure agreements means the companies will not share their discussions with outside parties. The airlines warned in a joint press release that they will not "provide any further announcements regarding the status of any such discussions unless" a merger is ready to be announced or if the talks fall apart. US Airways' stock price rose nearly 4 percent to $10.89 shortly after the market opened Friday. The merger talk announcement came before trading began.
Bernanke says Fed can do more to help the economy High unemployment is a “grave what has come to be known as concern” and the Federal Reserve “QE2” -- a plan for “quantitative will step in to help the economy if easing,” where the Fed purchases it doesn’t recover, Fed Chairman long-dated bonds with the idea of Ben Bernanke said Friday. moving money out of the Speaking at the Fed’s annual Treasury market and into riskier symposium for central bankers assets in order to spur economic held in Jackson Hole, Wyo., growth. Bernanke did not commit the Fed “There might be optimism ... to any specific plan to boost the expecting some QE coming our economy, such as a round of bond way and obviously that's purchases to lower long-term weakened the dollar,” said interest rates. Fabian Eliasson, vice president But in his speech he said “the of currency sales at Mizuho Federal Reserve will provide Corporate Bank in New York, Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke additional policy accommodation ahead of Bernanke’s speech. “It as needed to promote a stronger economic recovery seems that the market is hoping for that.” and sustained improvement in labor market In his speech, Bernanke acknowledged that the conditions in a context of price stability.” weak employment market is a major threat to World markets have been on edge for weeks growth. waiting to hear what Bernanke will say in Wyoming. “The stagnation of the labor market in particular Bernanke was expected to acknowledge the Fed is a grave concern not only because of the enormous is actively considering another round of monetary suffering and waste of human talent it entails, but easing. By stopping short of signaling another bond- also because persistently high levels of buying program is imminent, he was potentially unemployment will wreak structural damage on our disappointing the markets. economy that could last for many years,” Bernanke In the same venue in 2010 Bernanke introduced said.
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BUSINESS & TEchNOLOgLy
Apple wins $1billion in damages as jury finds Samsung mobile devices infringed six Apple patents SAN JOSE, Calif.—Nine jurors delivered a sweeping victory to Apple Inc. in a high-stakes court battle against Samsung Electronics Co., awarding the Silicon Valley company $1.05 billion in damages and providing ammunition for more legal attacks on its mobile-device rivals. Jurors found that Samsung infringed all but one of the seven patents at issue in the case—a patent covering the physical design of the iPad. They found all seven of Apple's patents valid—despite Samsung's attempts to have them thrown out. They also decided Apple didn't violate any of the five patents Samsung asserted in the case. The damage award is shy of Apple's request for more than $2.5 billion, but much larger than Samsung's estimates and still ranking among the largest intellectual-property awards on record. “The verdict should not be viewed as a win for Apple, but as a loss for the American consumer," Samsung said. "It will lead to fewer choices, less innovation, and potentially higher prices."
An Apple spokeswoman said, "The mountain of evidence presented during the trial showed that Samsung's copying went far deeper than even we knew." Among other findings, the jury at the U.S. District Court found that many of the Apple patents were willfully infringed by Samsung. That means that Judge Lucy Koh now has the discretion to triple Apple's damages award, said Brian Love, an assistant professor at Santa Clara University School of Law, who has been tracking the case. "This is a huge, crushing win for Apple," he said. Apple filed a motion seeking a preliminary injunction against Samsung's products. Judge Koh asked Apple to submit data on what products Apple wants covered by an injunction and how each is covered by the jury verdict. While the ruling won't affect the companies' latest products, it could shape how smartphones and tablets are designed and the fortunes of companies that make them. Apple's legal campaign is partly aimed at trying to beat back the
Ford Focus on track to beat Toyota Corolla as best-selling car The automotive global order could be in for a major shake-up. Ford Motor Co. reports it sold 489,616 of its Focus sedans and hatchbacks worldwide during the first half of this year. That’s 27,000 units, or about 5.5%, more than the perennial global sales leader the Toyota Corolla – and it could mark the first time in years that an American maker produced the world’s best-selling passenger car if that pace holds for the second half of 2012. Not that Toyota won’t try to cover that gap. The giant maker has picked up plenty of momentum this year as it recovers from severe product shortages caused by the March 2011 Japanese earthquake and tsunami. In July, Toyota’s U.S. sales surged 37%, about twice the overall pace of the rebounding American market. The Corolla lagged behind Focus this time last year, as well, but not only caught up by the end of 2011 but actually finished the year with 100,000 more sales than its Ford rival. But the Corolla is one of the oldest models in the Toyota line-up – with a replacement not due for another year – and it is facing an assault by newer models including not only the Ford Focus but the Hyundai Elantra. The latter has proved so popular the Korean maker is struggling to find more capacity. The new Focus has seen its own sales surge 31% in the U.S. so far this year. But helping push Ford into the top spot, the new Focus is now being sold in over 100 countries. And it is being produced on a number of Ford’s global assembly lines, including one in Rayong, Thailand. In fact, a red Focus sedan that rolled out of that plant earlier today became the 350 millionth vehicle produced by Ford in its nearly 110-year history. The Focus is one of the latest models developed under the One Ford strategy conceived by Ford CEO Alan Mulally. In years past, the maker operated a largely regional network of subsidiaries and the small cars produced in the U.S., Europe and Latin America often were very, very different in design and construction.
gangbuster growth of Android, the operating system created by Google Inc. that is used by Samsung and other device makers. In the second quarter, Android phones—which are made by many phone makers—represented 68% of smartphone shipments, while Apple's represented 17%, according to market research firm IDC. Friday's jury decision that the six infringed Apple patents—including three covering the shape of the iPhone and on-screen icons—are valid may make it harder for handset makers to enter markets with gadgets that look and work too much like a market leader's. That means that Apple could find it easier to defend its market position and lofty profit margins, while consumers may see a bit less choice and higher prices—as fewer competitors court buyers with me-too models and pass along costs of damage awards in price their products. The only patent the jury found Samsung didn't infringe relates to design of a tablet. Throughout the trial, Samsung's lawyers frequently remarked that Apple shouldn't be given
a monopoly on a rectangle with rounded corners. Apple, which cited 28 Samsung products in the case, sued Samsung last year and ultimately accused the South Korean company of infringing seven patents. Samsung fired back, alleging some iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch models infringed up to five of its patents. Global smartphone revenue is expected to reach $207.6 billion in 2012 and $252.7 billion in 2013, according to estimates from Credit Suisse. The Apple-Samsung case has shattered records on the amount of evidence, number of claims, experts and potential fees, say lawyers observing the case. The verdict launches the next phase of the patent battle. Several lawyers following the case predict Apple and Samsung, among the world's largest and richest technology companies, could take appeals all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. "There will be many issues brought up on appeal by Samsung," including the damages award, said Daniel Ravicher, executive director of the Public Patent Foundation, which advocates for patent reform. Apple is the largest customer for components manufactured by Samsung, a fact that both companies raised at trial. Both are among the most recognized consumer brands on the planet and the trial has been taken up by a range of media, including latenight talk show host comedian Conan O'Brien.
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Kirani James honoured in Grenada READ MORE BELOW
Usain Bolt targets Rio Olympics ZURICH -- Usain Bolt wants to defend his three Olympic titles at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games, though he's undecided about plans for next season. He's not sure which events he'll compete in during the 2013 world championship season. "If I can go to Rio and really defend all my titles, that would make it even greater," Bolt said Wednesday, a day before the Weltklasse Diamond League meet. With just two races remaining this season -- the 200 meters in Zurich and a 100 in Brussels next week -- his future plans have attracted more attention. Bolt has revived his old flirtation with adding the long jump to his usual program of the 100 and 200 meters and 4x100 relay in Jamaica colors at the 2013 world championships in Moscow or beyond. The strategy of track and field's biggest and most marketable star will be discussed soon with coach Glen Mills.
Usain Bolt
"I will be saying long jump, he'll probably be saying 400 meters," said Bolt, who has traditionally dismissed thoughts of training for the one-lap event. "I'm not sure what I'm going to do next season. We have to work all that out first." Bolt said his options included focusing on lowering his world-record times -- 9.58 in the 100 and 19.19 in the 200 -- or adding more titles and gold medals. "You never know what we might
Kirani James arrives in Grenada to big welcome
Kirani James (second from left) meeting (from l) Erskine King, Seibert Straughn and Dr June Caddle.
ST. GEORGE'S, Grenada -- A few thousand revelers waving Grenada's red, green and yellow flag have welcomed back a young athlete who won the tiny Caribbean island's first Olympic medal. Kirani James arrived at the country's airport Thursday evening on a jet chartered by the government. Crews rolled out a red carpet for the 400-meter champ. Prime Minister Tillman Thomas told the 19-yearold runner that his return was a "very proud moment for all of us." At the London Olympics, James won the 400meter competition in 43.94 seconds, becoming the first non-U.S. athlete to run the 400-meter race in less than 44 seconds. He also is the first non-U.S. winner of the race since the 1980 Olympics in Moscow.
come up with. Let's try to run under 19 seconds, let's try to run 9.4, 9.3," he said. "When you have world records, it's kind of hard to focus solely on trying to go faster." He intends lining up at Moscow next August "without a doubt," though insisted he does not know in which events. Still, the 200 is his favorite event, and he will surely want to regain the 100 world title he ceded to training partner Yohan Blake after being disqualified from the final for a false
start last year. Bolt responded without obvious enthusiasm to a question about competing at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. He also missed the last Commonwealths held in New Delhi, and much of the 2010 season appeared designed to avoid burning out midway between the Olympics. "If you push your body every year, it is going to deteriorate quickly," Bolt said. "I want to last as long as I possibly can in this sport." Bolt is unlikely to challenge his 200 world record on Thursday, when heavy rain is forecast at the Letzigrund stadium. "I just want to go home. I'm counting the days now," he said. Blake, who heads the 100 lineup, could yet take the Diamond League spotlight from Bolt for a second straight Thursday in Switzerland. The double Olympic silver medalist ran 9.69 in winning at Lausanne last week to equal Tyson Gay of the United States as the second-fastest man.
Big 3 deliver — Bolt, Blake, Shelly sparkle in Zurich ZURICH, Switzerland — Jamaican sprint duo Usain Bolt and Yohan Blake dominated the 100 and 200m at the Diamond League meet, but Kenyan 800m star David Rudisha was upstaged by Ethiopian tyro Mohammed Aman. In a high-quality night of action featuring 14 Olympic champions, training partners Bolt and Blake set new meeting records of 19.66 and 9.76 seconds in the 200 and 100m, respectively. Fresh from his second successive triple gold haul at the Olympics, Bolt came around the bend into the final stretch just ahead of compatriot Nickel Ashmeade on his inside. And then the imposing 26-year-old, also the world record-holder in both sprint events, switched on the afterburners in his drive phase to ensure a comfortable win in his favoured event. "Running after the Olympics is much more fun, it is less stress," said Bolt. "Now I have one more race (in Brussels on September 7) until the end of the season and I'm looking forward to it. "During the season, you push yourself a lot and it's only at the end that you realise how tired you are." Blake overcame a false start by top US sprinter Tyson Gay to hold his nerve in a 100m raced in chilly, wet conditions at a packed Letzigrund Stadium. The 22-year-old, who won double sprint silver behind Bolt in the London Games and is
currently the second fastest man in the world alongside Gay (after racing 9.69sec in Lausanne last week), rocketed out of his blocks at the second time of asking to power through the line. Compatriot Nesta Carter was second in 9.95sec, with American Ryan Bailey (9.97) in third. "I'm not at all surprised that after the Olympics I'm coming out so strong and so fast. It's because my coach has a plan for me," said Blake of Glen Mills, who also coaches Bolt. "Next year I can be even better," he warned. But there was disappointment for Rudisha, the blazing two-lap specialist who was bidding to better his own world record of 1min 40.91sec he set when winning 800m gold at the London Games earlier this month. Aman held on for a convincing win in a personal best of 1:42.53, with Rudisha timing 1:42.81. One Olympic champion to also shine was Jamaica's Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, who rebounded from two successive losses to Carmelita Jeter in Lausanne and Birmingham to easily trump the American in the Women's 100m in 10.83sec. Jeter clocked 10.97sec with teammate and 200m specialist Allyson Felix finishing third (11.02).
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HIGHLIGHTS
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Lakers to honor three ex-players READ MORE ON PAGE 44
England Test captain Strauss retires from cricket LONDON - England captain Andrew Strauss, who oversaw back-to-back Ashes wins over Australia and took the team to the top of the test rankings, announced his retirement from professional cricket on Wednesday. Strauss, appointed in 2009, will be replaced by one-day skipper Alastair Cook. "It's a very tough decision to make. For me, the drive to it all was my form with the bat and in truth I haven't batted well for a long period of time now," the 35-year-old opener told a news conference at Lord's. "For a captain to perform his role properly, it's important that you're not a passenger in the side but also that people aren't speculating whether you should be in the side or not. "It hasn't been something that's occurred overnight it's a gradual feeling that has grown over the last six or 12 months and certainly in the last few weeks has become more apparent that this is the right time. "I'd very much like to go out on my own terms with my head held high," added Strauss.
His decision was the climax of a difficult few weeks during which England batsman Kevin Pietersen was dropped for the third and final test against South Africa after sending what the player conceded were 'provocative' text messages about his team mates and management to opposition players. Strauss was adamant the controversy had not had an impact on his decision to quit. "I've been thinking about it for a while. I first spoke to (England coach) Andy (Flower) about it before the Kevin Pietersen incident reared its head. It hasn't been a consideration at all," said Strauss, who captained England for 50 tests, winning 24. "I was pretty sure I was going to make this decision before the Kevin Pietersen situation arose. What happened, I didn't feel undermined me in the eyes of the team in anyway. It was a difficult situation to deal with but not in terms of making me less more or less keen to lead the side forward." England lost the series 2-0 and
with it their number one ranking to the South Africans. The final test was Strauss's 100th but the left-hander, who made 21 test centuries during his career, did not enjoy a successful series, averaging only 17.83 runs against the Proteas, with a highest score of 37. Cook, who is leading England against the South Africans in a one-day series, will take charge of the test side for the tour of India which begins in November. "I'm incredibly proud to be sitting here as captain of England. It's a huge honour for me," said Cook, sitting alongside his former skipper. "Obviously I've got huge boots to fill. Strauss has done an incredible job. It was a sad dressing room yesterday when we found out." During his time in charge, Strauss led England to Ashes wins in 2009 and 2010/11 as well as the top of the test rankings following last year's 4-0 series whitewash at home to India. But since then England have lost six tests, including three in a row to Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates this year, won three and drawn two.
Tiger Woods and Begay lead win at charity event VERONA, N.Y. -- Healthy for the first time in years, Notah Begay III finally was on the winning side in his signature charity event, and it felt so very good. ''Five years! Finally! Great!'' Begay said Wednesday after teaming with Tiger Woods to shoot 9 under. ''I had to get on my partner. He was getting a little lackadaisical out there.'' Woods and Begay, longtime friends and former college roommates at Stanford, helped lead the American side to victory in the NB3 Foundation Challenge at Turning Stone Resort's Atunyote Golf Club. The 12-player field was split into two teams, with Woods and Begay serving on a West squad that also included PGA Tour players Rickie Fowler and Gary Woodland and LPGA Tour players Cristie Kerr and Lexi Thompson. Woods and Begay took on K.J. Choi and Y.E. Yang in one of three stroke-play matches that were billed as an ''East Meets West'' challenge involving Asian and American players. The other pairings had Woodland and Kerr against Danny Lee and Se Ri Pak, and Fowler and Thompson playing against Charlie Wi and Yani Tseng. Woods and Begay beat Choi and Yang 9-7, Woodland and Kerr beat Lee and Pak 8-7, and Tseng and Wi tied Fowler and Thompson 7-7, giving the Americans a 2.5 to 0.5 victory. The winning team shared $450,000, and Woods
presented Begay a check for $500,000 for his foundation. Begay has raised well over $3 million for his foundation, which is dedicated to helping fight obesity and diabetes in the Native American community. Plagued by back problems that have relegated him to playing only a few PGA Tour events and spending time in the broadcast booth, Begay shone on a bright, sunny day with a slight breeze, carding five birdies to four for Woods. Before they teed off, Begay turned to Woods and said: ''We want to win, right?'' Woods shrugged, then went out and birdied the opening hole, his short putt catching the lip of the cup and dropping softly to match Yang's birdie. Yang sank a 4-foot birdie putt at No. 4 and his tip-in birdie at the par-5 fifth hole, a dogleg left, brought his team to 3 under, one shot ahead after Begay rolled in a 6-foot birdie putt seconds later. Woods made a 33-foot putt for birdie at No. 7 to even the score between the two groups and Begay followed with a short birdie putt at No. 8 as he and Woods reached 4 under. When Choi rolled in a downhill 12-foot putt that broke slightly right to left at No. 9, he and Yang were at 4 under and tied with Woods and Begay, Fowler and Thompson, Woodland and Kerr, and Danny Lee and Pak. Tseng and Wi birdied the 10th hole to reach 4 under and knot the competition all around.
England captain Andrew Strauss
South-African born Strauss, who also played county cricket for Middlesex, made his England debut against New Zealand in 2004, scoring 112 but said the Ashes win in Australia had been the highlight of his career "For me personally, lifting the urn in Australia was the highlight and it was always going to take a huge amount to beat that. I'm very proud to lead England to number one in the rankings. From a personal batting perspective, there was the 100 on debut, Ashes 100s, World Cup 100s. "There've been lots of great moments and some tough ones as well but I go out with absolutely no regrets. I've achieved far more than I ever thought I was going to."
Real Madrid beats Barcelona to win Super Cup Gonzalo Higuain and Cristiano Ronaldo put Madrid in control with goals inside 23 minutes at the Santiago Bernabeu to take advantage of Barcelona’s poor start. Adriano was red carded for tripping up Ronaldo as he was set to race clear on goalkeeper Victor Valdes in the 28th to further thwart the visitors’ hopes and put Madrid on course for a first home win over its biggest rival since 2008. But Lionel Messi curled home an exquisite free kick before halftime of another thrilling match between the Spanish giants with the league champions hanging on to beat the cup holders for the title. Alex Song and Luka Modric both debuted for their clubs, with Madrid’s first victory of the season in all competitions helping it recover from its worst start for nearly 40 years and edging it ahead of Barcelona 8887 in all-time wins between the “clasico” rivals. “We got off to poor start and there were doubts,” captain Iker Casillas said. “But I think we deserve this title.” It also provided coach Jose Mourinho with the last piece of silverware missing from his Spanish trophy cabinet. The Portuguese coach’s 20th title means he’s won every trophy available in the four leagues where he’s coached, including England, Italy and Portugal. Barcelona hadn’t won a trophy against Madrid at the Bernabeu since 1968 and its flat start certainly made victory look unlikely.
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Lakers to honor three ex-players LOS ANGELES -- The retired jerseys and statues in and around Staples Center will get some company next season. The Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday announced the dates of three events next season to honor Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Jamaal Wilkes and Shaquille O'Neal. For more news and notes on the Lakers, check out the Land O' Lakers blog from the Kamenetzky brothers. Blog On Nov. 16, before playing the Phoenix Suns, the Lakers and Staples Center will unveil a statue of AbdulJabbar at Star Plaza outside of Staples Center. Abdul-Jabbar's statue will join those of Magic Johnson, Jerry West, Wayne Gretzky, Oscar De La Hoya and Chick Hearn around the front of the arena. Abdul-Jabbar's statue, or lack thereof, was a topic of controversy last season after the Hall of Fame center complained about not getting one erected in his honor. "When you look at what (owner Jerry Buss) did for Earvin (Johnson) and what he did for me, big disparity there," Abdul-Jabbar told ESPN's "Mike & Mike in the Morning." "I just think that it's a mindset that's taken over in the organization that I'm of minimal value to the organization and they're doing other things. ... They just
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Jamaal Wilkes
Shaquille O'Neal
don't seem to want to include me in the way they have included other people." Abdul-Jabbar is the NBA's alltime leading scorer and won six NBA championships, including five with the Lakers. He is a six-time NBA MVP, a 10-time All-NBA first-team member and a 19-time All-Star. During halftime of the Lakers' Dec. 28 game against the Portland Trail Blazers, the Lakers will retire jersey No. 52 in honor of Wilkes, who was announced as a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame induction class of 2012 in April. Wilkes, a member of the Lakers from 1977-84, was a four-time NBA champion, a three-time NBA All-Star and a rookie of the year. On April 2, during halftime of the
Lakers' game against the Dallas Mavericks, O'Neal will get his No. 34 retired. O'Neal retired last June after a 19year career. In the eight seasons he spent in Los Angeles from 1996-2004, the Lakers made the Finals four times, winning three championships, and O'Neal led the league in scoring while being named regular-season MVP in 1999-2000. O'Neal will be the ninth player in Lakers franchise history to have his jersey retired, joining Wilt Chamberlain (No. 13), Elgin Baylor (No. 22), Gail Goodrich (No. 25), Johnson (No. 32), Abdul-Jabbar (No. 33), James Worthy (No. 42), West (No. 44) and Wilkes (No. 52). The relationship between O'Neal
and the Lakers soured before he was traded to the Miami Heat in 2004. O'Neal butted heads with Kobe Bryant and publicly demanded a lucrative extension that never was offered. Time, however, has healed those wounds. "Shaq had a long and amazing career, with a huge impact both on and off the court," Lakers owner Dr. Jerry Buss said in a statement when O'Neal retired. "His contributions were significant to the entire NBA, but we specifically appreciate what he did with and what he meant to the Lakers during his eight years with us. We have three championships that we wouldn't have won without him, and we will forever be grateful for his significant contributions to those teams."
Roddick to retire after US Open On his 30th birthday, Andy Roddick announced his retirement Thursday, saying the United States Open would be his final tournament. He said he had been considering retirement for some time. “Walking off at Wimbledon, I felt like I knew,” said Roddick, who lost in the third round last month at the All England Club, where he was a three-time finalist. This year’s Open was already marked by one significant goodbye. On Wednesday, Kim Clijsters, a three-time United States Open champion, played the final singles match of her career. Roddick is scheduled to play Bernard Tomic of Australia in a secondround match on Friday night at Arthur Ashe Stadium. He said he announced his retirement during the tournament so that he would have the change to say goodbye to his friends on the tour and to fans. Roddick is the last American man to win a Grand Slam event, winning the United States Open in 2003. But he was unable to add another major championship, mostly because of Roger Federer, who beat Roddick in four Grand Slam finals. “I’ve always, for whatever my faults have been, felt like I’ve never done anything halfway,” Roddick said. “Probably the first time in my career that I can sit here and say I’m not sure that I can put everything into it physically and emotionally. I don’t know that I want to disrespect the game by coasting home. I had plans to play a smaller schedule next year. But the more I thought about it, I
Andy Roddick
think you either got to be all in or not.” Roddick was ranked No. 1 for nine weeks in 2003 and was a consistent presence in the top 10. But he fell out of the top 10 for good last March, and in an era dominated by three men – Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic – he struggled to advance deep into the major tournaments in recent years. Currently ranked 22nd, Roddick won 32 ATP singles titles, including two this year. Committed to playing for the United States in team competitions, he led the American team to the Davis Cup in 2007. His 33 singles victories in Davis Cup were second only to John McEnroe. Roddick said he would focus on his foundation, which earlier this week announced plans to open a school and youth tennis center in Austin, Tex.
Russian volleyball coach commits suicide, colleague blamepoor Olympic showing for his death The aftermath of a poor Olympic showing for Russia may have become even more dire on Wednesday, when the coach of the country's women's volleyball team was found hanged in his hotel room with some blaming the team's poor results at the London Games for his death. As reported by Eurosport and a handful of other outlets, 43-year-old Russian volleyball coach Sergey Ovchinnikov (also spelled Sergei in some outlets) was found hanged in a hotel room while he and his Dynamo Moscow squad were taking part in preseason training in Croatia. Ovchinnikov had recently finished a turbulent Olympic campaign leading the Russian women's volleyball team. The national team had entered as favorites but was eventually eliminated by Brazil in the quarterfinals, failing to convert a whopping six match points in the loss. While there is certainly no proof that Ovchinnikov's death was brought on by the national team's poor results, two of his colleagues insisted that it played a part in the suicide. "He took the Olympics very personally," Russian men's volleyball coach Vladimir Alekno told RT.com. "I saw what he was going through and how upset he was after the defeat. He didn't talk much. Even after victories he was always thinking about something and smoked a lot." According to Sovetsky Sports news service, Ovchinnikov had also complained of recurring headaches in recent days, a malady which may or may not be connected to the Olympics and the stress it brought. Regardless of reason, another of Ovchinnikov's former colleagues was distraught at the news of the coach's death, insisting that his suicide was simply the result of an irrational reaction to a single tournament. "This is so stupid," former Russian women's volleyball coach Vladimir Kuzyutkin told Russian News Service. "He was my friend, my colleague. No one said a bad word about him. Yes, there was a blunder at the Olympics, well, to hell with it."
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