Volume 8 Issue 48

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

VOLUME 8 No. 48

$1.00

MINISTERS SALARIES CUT Website: www.suntci.com

Email: sun@suntci.com

Tel: 649-946-8542

Fax: 649-941-3281

www. twitter.com/suntci

All other MPs receive increases

BY HAYDEN BOYCE PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

The Premier and Cabinet Ministers in the Turks and Caicos have had their salaries cut, while all other Members of Parliament, including the Opposition Leader, the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker, Elected and Appointed Members, have received pay increases.

This was all revealed and confirmed on Friday November 30th, during the first sitting of the House of Assembly since Britain imposed direct rule on August 14th, 2009.

Under the Ministers and Others (Salaries and Allowances) Bill which was eventually passed by the House Friday afternoon, the salaries are as follows: • Premier - $140,000 or $11,666 per month; a decrease from $150,000 a year or $12,500 per month during the last House of Assembly, when the Premier also received an additional $11,500 a month in allowances; • Deputy Premier - $126,000 or $10,500 a month; a decrease from $135,000 a year or $11,250 per month during the last House of Assembly when the deputy also received an additional $6,000 in allowances; • Cabinet Ministers - $113,400 a year or $9,450 per month; a decrease from $125,000 per year or $10,416 per month during the last House of Assembly when Ministers also received an additional $5000 a month in allowances).

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

It was a sense of pride when the House of Assembly at the NJS Francis Building in the country’s capital, Grand Turk, was open on Wednesday, November 28, signaling an official return to democracy for the Turks and Caicos Islands, after three and a half years of direct rule from Britain.

The event was marked by a colourful swearing-in ceremony punctuated with pomp and pageantry. Earlier in the day, House Members and other dignitaries – foreign and local – worshipped at the St. Mary’s Pro-Cathedral Anglican Church. Joining fellow members of the House, their spouses and dignitaries on the steps of the parliament building are: newly-elected Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing (third from right – front row), his wife Dr. Dawn Perry-Ewing (fourth); Her Excellency Deputy Governor Anya Williams (second right), her husband Darren Williams; and Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson (fifth from right) and her husband Lorne Robinson. See photos on Pages 23-25

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS WILL HAVE VAT STORY ON PAGE 7

HISTORIC HOUSE OPENING

GOV’T TO FOCUS ON TOURISM, CONSTRUCTION, FINANCIAL SERVICES STORY ON PAGE 11

RECORD NUMBER OF WOMEN IN HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY STORY ON PAGE 13

AIR TURKS AND CAICOS ANNOUNCES NEW ROUTE TO SANTO DOMINGO STORY ON PAGE 17

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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

LOCAL NEWS

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

Ministers salaries cut - Cont’d CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

The Speaker of the House of Assembly’s salary was increased from $48,000 a year or $4000 a month to $75,000 a year or $6,250 a month, while the Deputy Speaker is now making $72,000 a year or $6,000 a month, up from $36,000 a year or $3000 a month.

The Leader of the Opposition’s salary was raised from $48,000 a year or $4,000 a month to $75,000 a year or $6,255 a month.

Elected and Appointed Members are now making $70,000 a year or $5833 a month, whereas in the past, Elected Members were paid $36,000 a year or $3000 a month, and Appointed Members $30,000 a year or $2500 a month.

The changes in salaries and allowances were recommended on November 6th 2012, by the Integrity Commission, comprising chairman Sir David Simmons, QC, of Barbados; Gary Brough, Bishop Clarence Williams, Paul Harvey and Martin Green.

In outlining the underlying principles of their recommendations, the Commission identified seven points against which salaries and allowances should be determined.

These were: 1. Members of the House of Assembly must be

remunerated at a level that is proportionate to the responsibilities associated with membership of the House; 2. Levels of payment must adequately reward public service and render such service as satisfying to the Member: 3. Levels of payment must be so reasonable and proportionate that they serve as a disincentive to members to become corrupt; 4. There must be a differentiation between payment to Ministers who will serve as full-time officials and other MPs who will be free to pursue their private occupations while still serving in the House; 5. Levels of payment must reflect the realities of public service in a small Commonwealth jurisdiction; 6. Levels of payment must bear relativity to that which is accorded to MPs in the Commonwealth Caribbean’ 7. Levels of pay must take account of cost of living.

The Integrity Commission examined and analysed what is paid in other countries in the Caribbean, such as Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Barbados, The Cayman Islands, Jamaica and Montserrat.

In addition, it took into account the salaries of MPs in Bermuda and the Cayman Islands, which it was noted are more financially and economically robust than the Turks and Caicos Islands.

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

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

SEVENS STARS’ CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

The entrance to the Seven Stars Resort was the centre of attention on Saturday, November 24, when that hotel staged its Annual Christmas Tree Lighting. The main feature of the event was the appearance of Santa Claus, who later doled out goodies to children, who were only too eager to oblige. Ken Patterson, Managing Director of Seven Stars, said for the last six Christmases, Sevens Stars has been guaranteeing the lighting at the round-a-bout garden, which has become a perennial spectacle for guests and locals alike. However, he said that since last year the resort started a new tradition of having a tree-lighting ceremony, to which children of staff and guests are invited. Patterson said that this year’s tree lighting ceremony was much bigger than last year’s, due to word of mouth of the event getting around. He said that Seven Stars Resort believes in the development of the community and the sustenance of a pristine Turks and Caicos Islands, which is why it has been playing an integral in critical programmes, such as the clean-up campaign, especially in the Grace Bay area. Seven Stars was also one of the host hotels for the now popular Caribbean Food and Wine Festival, which itself has been committed to developing young Turks and Caicos Islanders in the culinary arena, through its Little Chefs Programme. Patterson is seen here with Santa, turning on the switch to the Christmas tree, which is seen in the background.

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LOCAL NEWS

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LOCAL LOCAL NEWS

DECEMBER - DECEMBER 8TH,2012 2012 3RD - NOVEMBER TURKS & CAICOS SUN TURKS AND CAICOS SUN NOVEMBER 10TH, SUN 2012 NOVEMBER 16TH1ST - NOVEMBER 24TH, TURKS & CAICOS

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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LOCAL NEWS

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DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

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DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

LOCAL NEWS

Turks and Caicos Islands will have VAT

BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR

Despite pleas from the Rufus Ewing government to defer Value Added Tax for a year, until alternative revenue measures are devised, the British Government is adamant that the tax system will be implement April 1 next year.

The Rufus administration had asked Minister for Overseas Territories, Mark Simmons to delay VAT’s implementation while it worked on other dependable, less burdensome revenue stream methods. Ewing said that when crafted, the methods would go up for public scrutiny through numerous consultations.

However, Minister Simmons made it clear during a joint news conference with Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing on Tuesday, November 27, at the Regent Palms, that he was not convinced that the newly-elected government could come up soon enough with a system suitable enough to replace the controversial tax.

“I remain to be convinced that the deferral of VAT for any length of time is desirable. I would prefer to see the VAT implemented whilst the ongoing analysis was taking place. And, at that point, if it is found that it was not necessary to have the VAT, the rate

UK Overseas Territories Minister Mark Simmons (centre) makes a point, while Governor Ric Todd (left) and Premier Hon. Rufus Ewing look on

could be reduced or it could then subsequently be reduced significantly,” Simmons said.

While conceding that a significant number of Turks and Caicos Islanders could be against VAT, Simmons said that he was impressed with the efforts of Premier Ewing and other politicians to which he spoke, on their commitment to continue fiscal prudence of the TCI. “To that end, within that architecture, if there is an alternative sustainable revenue stream, that can be demonstrated is either not necessary at all or should be at a lower rate, or should be deferred, prior to VAT coming into play next April, then, I have said that I would look at it. And

Conch Farm now growing fish

The Cobia fish (pictured here) is on of the four species that The Conch Farm will be growing

Marine Biologists at the Caicos Conch Farm in Leeward are now successfully growing four distinct species of warm water fin fish in saltwater tanks and ponds on shore and expect to begin a fifth species in the near future.

Pictured here are Cobia & Pompano. In addition to these species, the Conch Farm is also growing Mutton Snapper and Nassau Grouper and expects to start Yellowtail within 90 days.

The fin fish now growing at the Conch Farm are under development as future “broodstock” to produce a reliable supply of fish eggs to support commercially farming these fish in local waters.

The growing fish are available for viewing by the public during the Conch Farm tour and Belongers with children are invited to tour the farm as our guests without charge.

that’s the conversation that the Premier and I had this morning (Tuesday, November 27),” Simmons asserted.

In the meantime, despite the disagreement, Minister believed that the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Turks and Caicos Islands Government would have a positive relationship, which he said did not necessarily mean both would agree on all issues.

“Friends will disagree. But ultimately what we have got to do is to find a way in this partnership to ensure that TCI continues to move forward; that it continues to use this opportunity for the reinstatement of democracy as a launch pad to drive economic development, drive job creation and

diversify the economic base of TCI,” Simmons argued.

The Premier, meanwhile, said that his government had identified a number of revenue-based strategies, and would be moving to conduct financial modeling of each of the strategies, with the aimed of coming up with a suitable model to improve the country’s revenue position. He was confident that the objectives would be achieved.

“We will have several strategies that we would aim to bring forward, in an attempt to improve our financial position. We would look at the impact of each of those strategies before the end of the month of December. And, hopefully, the minister could look at them.

“The models would be based on sound financial principles, current trends, realistic and reliable projections, based on inward investment opportunities or proposals that we have on the table. And to see what economic returns that we would have, and then make some risk assumptions. We would then show what those projections actually either meet or exceed the revenue projections put forward by the FCO,” Ewing said.

He told the media corps that some of the revenue methods were already in existence, but government would be looking at ways to maximize the streams.

Premier Ewing and Governor going to London Premier Dr. Rufus Ewing headed to London on Friday November 30th for the first Joint Ministerial Council (JMC), which will be attended by UK Ministers and representatives from the UK Overseas Territories.

Governor Ric Todd will also be attending the summit and both of them will attend a series of preparatory meetings at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office on Monday December 3rd, before the JMC itself, which runs from December 4th to 5th.

Hosted by Overseas Territories Minister Mark Simmonds MP the JMC brings together Governors,

Commissioners, Premiers, Chief Ministers and elected representatives from across the UK’s Overseas Territories.

One of the main issues for discussion at the JMC is the implementation of the Overseas Territories White Paper which seeks to further develop the joint security, sustainability and success of the UK and its OTs. This is the first JMC session which replaces the annual Overseas Territories Consultative Conference.

Deputy Governor Anya Williams will be sworn in as Acting Governor for the period 30 Nov-9 Dec 2012, while Akeirra Misick will be acting as Premier.

Job Opportunity

Senior Litigation Solicitor

A senior litigation solicitor is required for a new firm based in Providenciales. The successful candidate will be a qualified solicitor with at least ten years of postqualification experience in appropriate litigation disciplines: commercial, corporate, construction, insolvency, negligence, compliance, fraud and related matters.

Excellent communication skills, experience with solicitors’ accounts, ability to manage files and work independently is essential, together with the requisite experience in preparation of cases to instruct counsel and direct client relationships.

Experience in mediation/A.D.R. will be considered an advantage.

Salary commensurate with experience.

Please send application in writing to: Unit 007 SDR Complex, 176 South Dock Road, P.O. Box 666, Providenciales

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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

LOCAL NEWS

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

Major UK newspaper apologies to Lord Ashcroft An English newspaper which printed articles suggesting that Lord Ashcroft had corrupt links with former Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Michael Misick has been asked to make a public apology to Ashcroft in a British court.

According to reports in the UK media, Lord Michael Ashcroft has received a public apology at the High Court over articles published in The Independent newspaper concerning his business interests in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

His QC told a judge in London that - despite a disclaimer - "the articles published, when read as a whole, tended to link Lord Ashcroft's

name with allegations of scandalous corruption".

Giving the background to the libel action, Mark Warby, representing the Conservative peer, told Mr Justice Eady that the November 2009 articles referred to Michael Misick, the former premier of the Turks and Caicos "and a man widely alleged to have been involved in corrupt activity".

Mr Warby said: "Mr Misick was said to have led a 'lavish lifestyle'. The articles stated that loans had been made to Mr Misick by a local bank.

The bank was described as 'Lord Ashcroft's bank'."

The QC told the judge one article said: 'There is no suggestion that Lord

RUSSEL JENNINGS OF SOUTH CAICOS FERRY SEEKS

1 LABOURER Salary $6.00 per hour Contact 341-9479

Ashcroft or his companies were connected in any way to the alleged bribery and corrupt property deals for which Mr Misick is now being investigated'.

He added: "However, the articles as a whole will have given at least some readers a very different impression - both articles were published prominently: the first was a front page splash, and the second a two-page spread."

Mr Warby told the judge: "Independent News & Media now accept that, despite the disclaimer, the articles published, when read as a whole, did tend to link Lord Ashcroft's name with allegations of scandalous corruption.�

"Independent News & Media wishes to make absolutely clear that it has found no evidence whatsoever that Lord Ashcroft or his companies have in any way been involved with activities in the Turks and Caicos

Lord Ashcroft

Islands concerning politicians, public officials or others which might be considered to represent bribery or indeed any other corrupt practice."

With the apology and "the other confidential terms agreed, Lord Ashcroft is prepared to let the matter rest".

Julia Varley, appearing on behalf of Independent News & Media, told Mr Justice Eady that she accepted everything Mr Warby had said "and apologise to Lord Ashcroft for the embarrassment he has been caused by publication of the articles".

POSITION: LABOURER Cleaning and maintaining of yard and help with the loading and offloading of fuel tankers. Assist with warehouse duties.

Must be willing to work weekends, and some holidays.

WAGES/SALARY: 7.50 per hour.

Interested persons should submit their resume along with a cover letter to the following: The Manager Mr. McAllister Hanchell Caicos Oil Ltd., P.O. Box 653, South Dock Road, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands The deadline for receipt of all applications is December 15, 2012

1 LABOURER WANTED

6 days per week 9:00am to 5:00pm Contact Kendal Thomas 241-9747

CAIRSEA SERVICES LIMITED REQUIRE ONE (1) LABOURER

Salary: $5.00 per hour Must be reliable, hardworking & honest Hours: 8-5 and some weekends & holidays Apply in person

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

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DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

LOCAL NEWS

Vernon Forbes sentenced for fraudulent sale of Crown land In the Supreme Court in Providenciales, on Wednesday 28 November 2012, a 56 year old male of Middle Caicos was found guilty for six (6) counts of Obtaining Property by Deception and was

sentenced to 18 months Imprisonment.

Vernon Forbes was also ordered to pay restitution of $28,700 by November 28, 2013 or an additional two (2) years Imprisonment.

During 2007 to 2008, six nonnationals fell victim to Forbes scheme.

Vernon Forbes sold varying size lots of Crown land, to the unsuspecting victims.

According to the Commissioner of Crown Land Tatum Clerveaux: “The Crown Land Unit and the Planning Department began working closely together in 2009 to curtail what appeared to be a proliferation of selfhelped development in the Five Cays area. The placement of legal notice to discontinue development, from the Planning Department and the Crown

Land Unit, on the illegal structures led to the victims coming forward. It did not take long for the Departments to realise that what was happening was more than just sqatting; but also unscrupulous individuals were engaged in selling Crown land for personal gain.

The matter was brought to the attention of the Financial Crime Unit of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police, for further investigation.

Forbes is the third individual charged with selling property by deception.

1 LABOURER

DION RAMSEY/DRS BUILDING LTD SEEKS

TOYMAKER UNVEILS ‘SLOW FAST BOAT’ FOR CHRISTMAS

You may have heard of ‘go fast boats’, well, self-styled toymaker, Walter ‘Bobby’ Morris has prototyped a marine vessel he dubs ‘Slow Fast Boat’. The ‘Slow Fast Boat’, according to Morris, when fully developed, will have the ability to use both engines and sails – sails for slow speed and the engines for fast speed. Morris said that the dual mobility vessel was developed to assist boaters stranded at sea due to malfunction engines, to reach land, by applying its sails element.

Morris told The SUN that he was willing to partner with any financier who is willing to fund the project. The toymaker, who is seen in photo displaying the prototype, said that he would waste little time in getting the design patented, for fear of it being pirated by others, as was the case in the past, according to him.

Elva Swann Talbot Seeks

1 LABOURER Salary $5.00 per hour Contact 242-0388

Front Desk Agent Positions available:

Front Desk Supervisor with H.R. Experience preferred but not necessary.

Belongers only need apply.

Please apply in person no phone calls accepted Ports of Call Resorts

PALMS VENTURES LTD SEEKS

1 LABOURER

To work 6 days per week Salary $5.00 per hour Contact 331-6251

Salary $7.00 per hour Contact 242-5334 Tropical Imaging/Brilliant is looking for the following talented people EXPERIENCED ADMINISTRATOR AND CUSTOMER SERVICE SPECIALIST

Tropical Imaging requires an experienced administrator/customer service specialist who will be heavily involved in the company’s “back end” client support services.

Applicants should have at least 7 years commercial work experience and be able to demonstrate the ability to manage multiple ongoing tasks, have well-defined communication skills in person, on the telephone and written correspondence, be a team player and be a fanatic for attention to detail and customer service. You will be comfortable dealing with customers face to face as you are via email or video conferencing. Ideal applicants will also posses a commercial drive and acumen for satisfying customer’s needs. Putting together proposals for clients will be something you enjoy.

Applicants will also need to be fast learners and be willing to learn Mac based software, Photoshop editing, Quickbooks and other online software. Applicants should be technology savvy” and comfortable working in a “high tech” and fast moving environment.

Email all resumes/links to ceo@tropicalimaging.com

CASABLANCA CASINO Grace Bay-Providenciales

Position Available: Night Auditor

- Minimum of 5 years experience in the casino industry cash desk - Full knowledge of accounting produces - Full knowledge of table games - Verities and balances entries and record of financial - Transaction reported by various departments Please submit all application and resume by December 6th, 2012 To Casablanca Casino Grace bay HR manager-Maryann Ingraham 244-4665

WANTED ONE GARDENER To clean and keep garden free of weeds and shrubs and removing garbage.

To maintain and clean pool and pool area.

Applicant must be of good character and totally flexible and able to reside on premises.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

WANTED ONE DOMESTIC WORKER To clean and maintain a private home.

Duties include cleaning floors, windows, disposing of garbage.

Applicant must be of good character and totally flexible and able to reside on premises.

Salary $5.00 per hour Interested persons should contact the Office Manager at 941-4500.

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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

LOCAL NEWS

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

Sports Commission denies Haitian discrimination claim

BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR

The Sports Commission is denying that it discriminated against Haitian concert promoter Joseph Vixaille, who complained that the facility manager for the Gustarvus Lightbourne Complex, which he rented for an event on Sunday, November 25, ordered the show cancelled minutes before start time.

Vixaille, who reported the matter to The SUN, said that a dispute over electricity connection caused the concert’s forced cancellation. He said as a result of the show’s abrupt ending, he had lost approximately $10,000 including the $1,100 security deposit paid for the facility and fees paid for an artiste to be flown in from Florida.

Vixaille explained that about three hundred patrons had already paid and entered the complex, and a larger number waiting to gain entry, when the facility manager told them they could not gain electricity access from certain section of the building. “ Mr. Frankie Grant (technician) was the guy who set up the sound system for me. People were in the line waiting to come in because I brought a guy from Miami for the concert. About

6:30pm the guy (facility manager) went to Frankie and said ‘you cannot use a 210 connection from the building’. But Frankie said to him, ‘I have been using this facility for over five years and that is what I use all the time’.

“And he (manager) told Frankie that he could not allow him to use 210 from the building. I didn’t know what to do because people were already paying their money. More than 300 people were already inside and the line (outside) was very long. And’ the guy (caretaker) said we cannot continue the concert. He said one of two things was going to happen and that was either we changed the system or he refunded me the money.

He was so rude to me, I could not even understand why,” Vixaille said.

However, Chairman for the Sports Commission, Rodney Cox, who told The SUN that he ordered the facility manager to file a report on the incident, said that Vixaille had violated procedure by trying to connect from the electrical panel box that was off limts. Cox pointed out that the caretaker had received strict orders not to allow anyone to connect from the box since the facility had a near miss of being caught fire when an illegal connection caused the previous box to catch fire.

“He told them to hook up the

Systems Specialist/ Systems Integrator Doves Security Services is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Systems Specialist/Systems Integrator.

Candidate should posses at least an Associate Degree in electronics or management of information systems as well as a project management certificate from a recognized tertiary intuition as well as industry certifications A+, network+, security+ ITIL, MCTS & MCSA/MCSE, CCTV, CEHFI. The candidate is required to have at least 10 years experience working with various aspects of information technology and security surveillance & access control systems; pc’s servers, security equipment, POS systems (alarm integrated), Alarm systems, CCTV systems, access control systems, switches & routers & integrated building management systems and home automation systems This position requires an advanced IT Professional with in-depth knowledge of building management systems, project management, advanced CCTV systems & access control systems in the following areas; residential, commercial, shipping & logistics, police airport shopping centers supermarkets and gated communities.

The candidate will be responsible for all the maintenance of systems (IT, fire, Alarm, CCTV, BMS)and server equipment for Doves Security Systems as well as all of its client locations in the Turks & Caicos Islands.

Must have installed similar applications, reference sites/application will be checked.

SAlary: $15.00 per hour ONLY QUALIFIED APPLICANTS MAY APPLY QUALIFIED BELONGERS WILL BE GIVEN FIRST PREFERENCE

Joseph Vixaille

power the proper way, and because he (Vixaille) said he couldn’t do it, he told them that, since they could burn the place down doing that connection, he could not allow them to make that kind of connection. Now, if that building had been burnt down, it would be a problem on the facility manager.

“We told him not to allow anybody to go inside the box; make them do a direct hook-up. A direct hook-up could have been done, but the guys did not want to do it. He decided to cancel the show, and said he was going to go on the air to say the Sports Commission

I Variety Store Seeks Store Clerk To work full time Salary $5.00 per hour Contact: 344-0981

discriminated against Haitians. And that was wrong for him to do,” Cox fumed.

Cox continued: “The Sports Commission does not discriminate against anyone, no matter where you are from; whether Haitians, Dominicans; no matter the background of the person. We did not stop him from having the show; all the guy asked him to do was hook up the thing the right way. It is illegal to go inside the box, and if Fortis came there and saw that, we (Sports Commission) would get in trouble,” Cox noted.

The Sports Commission Chairman said that he had ordered that the security deposited collected from Vixaille be returned in full, and that he should not be turned away if he desired to stage future events at the facility.

However, Vixaille remained adamant that a plot had been hatched to discriminate against people of his demographic, because others had suffered similar fate in the past.

“The reason I called it discrimination is that this is not the first time that this has happened; they did this to Pastor Solomon. They turned the AC off on him while he was having a big event going on for his radio station anniversary. And Pastor Alces Dor was having an event here and they turned the lights off on him,” Vixaille said.

ONE LABOURER NEEDED

Salary $5.00 per hour 5 days per week Contact: U. Robinson at 232-3117

CONCH FARM LABOURER/ SEA GARDENER

TRADE WIND INDUSTRIES, LTD (TWI) Providenciales TWI is seeking a suitably qualified individual to fill a position as a Labourer/Sea Gardener. A Conch Farm Labourer/Sea Gardener’s daily duties involve hands on care for juvenile and adult conch and includes, but is not limited to; feeding, waste removal, cleaning, sorting, harvesting, processing, removing the animal, peeling the meat and cleaning the shells.

The successful candidate must be a strong, competent and experienced swimmer & snorkeler. This is a physically demanding job in the outdoor environment and involves spending much time wet or in the sea. Other staff duties include site maintenance, trash removal and assisting other employees. Persons interested in this position should submit their resume to tradewindconch@gmail.com .

Salary: $7.50 per hour BELONGER PREFERRED

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

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DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

LOCAL NEWS

Gov’t to focus on tourism, construction, financial services

BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR

Tourism, construction and the financial services industries are the three main pillars on which the Rufus Ewing-administration intends to bank on in order to return the country to prosperity.

The government’s intentions were highlighted in the Throne Speech delivered by His. Excellency, Governor Ric Todd, at the Opening of the House of Assembly on Wednesday, November 28, which marked the official return of democracy to the TCI. The government said that its primary agenda is to improve the economy, educating and empowering its people, creating opportunities for the workforce, moving towards self reliance in some key areas, restore national pride, achieving desired standards in health care and securing the country’s borders.

The government noted that successful strides in those areas would give the administration the gumption to initiate dialogue along the pathway to independence.

A tourism and investment

conference within the first 100 days of this administration is slated to be one of the economic vehicles that the Government will use to return prosperity to the country. This, the government said, would be supported by marketing and promotional strategies.

Acknowledging that Tourism and its subsidiary industries will be the main economic driver for the foreseeable future, the Rufus Ewing administration said that it plans to augment the industry by reviewing and revising the strategic plan and align it with the national development plan, while seeking to diversify the product.

Ecotourism, sports tourism, cultural tourism, heritage tourism and medical tourism are some of the avenues that the government said it would pursue to buttress the product.

The government said that it plans to end the seasonality of local tourism by venturing into non-traditional markets such as Asia, Europe and South America.

The administration said it also plans to revitalize sustained and dependable international travel at the JAGS McCartney International

THE PORTS AUTHORITY Of THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

DIRECTOR OF PORTS

JOB OPPORTUNITY The Ports Authority of the Turks and Caicos Islands, a statutory body, with its main office in Providenciales, is seeking to recruit an experienced professional to fill the position of DIRECTOR OF PORTS

Minimun Qualifications: Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Business, Public Administration or in a related field. A minimum of five years in progressively responsible leadership roles is required.

Candidates must have experience in leading an organization, or operating a unit of similar size, scope and complexity.

Candidates who possess experience in marine services or maritime related business, transportation and logistics, shipping, aviation, economic development, workforce development, large-scale commercial or industrial real estate development, or environmental services, are preferred.

Additionally, experience reporting to an elected or non-elected board, or working closely with elected officials and understanding the role of staff work in relation to elected official is essential.

The successful candidate will be expected to work out of the Providenciales office, but will be required to spend a reasonable amount of time at the Grand Turk office.

Full details of the job, guidelines for submission of applications and general information about the Ports Authority may be requested by emailing pstewart@ports.tc.

ONLY QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED FOR INTERVIEW.

Airport in Grand Turk, by mounting dialogue with international airlines, primarily from the United States. The development of a seaport on South Caicos is also another of the plans by this administration.

The government noted that it would open dialogue with practitioners within the financial service industry, as well as international professional services providers, to seek ways to make the industry more viable.

In the meantime, the government said that it was seeking ways to find alternative revenue sources to the Value Added Tax (VAT), which it intends to put to all stakeholders for further consultation. It said that it would be taking steps to resume revivable stalled hotel projects by holding talks with developers.

The government said also that the plans to expand the Providenciales International Airport would be reviewed, to ensure that tourism the long term growth of the sector would be provided for in case future expansion needs arises. The Ewing administration also declared that it would overhaul the South Caicos Airport, to foster future tourism growth on that island.

Turning to health care, the government said that it would be rushing to addressing the deficiencies at all levels of that sector by embarking on a number of measures.

The construction of primary care clinics within the community is one of the ways the administration plans

to address the matter.

The National Health Insurance Plan (NHIP) is also set to be placed on the examination table, with the intention of ensuring that children under 18, the unemployed and the elderly get coverage, while developing a pharmaceutical mechanism to provide affordable medication especially to those in need.

The administration said that it would also fully establish and activate the hospital contract management team, a clinical service review board and appoint a new Turks and Caicos Islands Government representative, as provided for in the hospital contract.

This, it said, would ensure value for money. The administration said also that it plans to conduct a financial and clinical audit of the two hospitals, and apply penalties where necessary.

The administration pledged also that it would embark on a thrust to make the public service more efficient and effective in its service delivery, by providing training and other tools for that sector. It said that it would also reinstate the 10 percent salary that was deducted about two years ago, while conducting a review for salaries and allowances.

Recognition would also be given to public servants who perform exemplary in the execution of their duties, with the establishment of the public service incentives awards programme, while working with the Civil Service Association to establish a civil service credit union.

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Page 12

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

LOCAL NEWS

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

Robert Hall elected Speaker of House of Assembly by one vote

BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR

The intervention of Governor’s Appointed Member, John Phillips broke the strict party line vote for the Speaker of the House of Assembly on Wednesday during its first sitting since democracy was suspended in 2009.

However, the nomination of elected At-Large Member for the PDM, Josephine Connolly, for Deputy Speaker, received wide bipartisan support. Her nomination received no objections.

Hon. Robert Hall was given the nod by all members of the Progressive National Party (PNP) Government, but received the thumps down from the opposition Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) members. When called upon by the Governor’s

Hon. Robert Hall

Appointed Members for their votes, former chair of the now defunct Consultative Forum, Lillian Missick, voted against Hall’s appointment, while Phillips voted for him.

Hall had resigned his radio programme – Expressions – earlier this year, with the intention of running for leadership of the PNP, but later rescinded that objective and lined up behind one of candidates for leadership of that party.

It was announced last week at the end of a National General Council (NGC) meeting that Hall would be nominated as Speaker of the House.

That body also selected retired longstanding House Clerk, Ruth Blackman, as the Government’s Appointed Member, from a short list that also included colourful party activist Devon Williams.

During his acceptance address, Hall underscored the challenges of the country and called upon both sides of the political divide to put aside their difference for the upward mobility of the country. He also promulgated his

commitment to ensuring dignity in the House of Assembly during sittings, while challenging others to do same.

“As Marcus Garvey said many, many years ago, ‘the ends you serve that are selfish will take you no further than yourself but the ends you serve that are for all, in common, will take you into eternity’. I pledge to uphold the dignity of this House, and urge all you to do accordingly. Familiarize yourself, if you haven’t already, with the standing orders – that must be almost like your Bible of this House,” he said.

Hall also cautioned House Members against performing acts that could lead to what he described as the indignities of the past, and leading again to British intervention.

“We will never, ever go down that road again. I pray that God be with us all and, God bless these Turks and Caicos Islands,” Hall noted.

Going away for the holidays?

Make your home look like someone is living in it, e.g. don't close your curtains. In daytime this shows your house is empty. Also, use automatic timer-switches to turn your lights and radios on when it goes dark. You can do this even if you are just going out for the evening

JOB VACANCY

SENIOR CORPORATE MANAGER ABOUT THE JOB: The Senior Corporate Manager will lead, manage and motivate a relationship team comprised of Credit Managers, Credit Officers and Client Service Officers with the objective of efficiently managing a portfolio of corporate clients by providing world class relationship management, top quality risk control and overseeing personal development of team members. This role will be responsible for maximizing customer profitability by driving revenue growth through generation of loans, deposits, fee income and cross-selling of all applicable bank services to existing customer base, identifying and soliciting bank services of non-customer.

The Senior Corporate Manager will direct the relationship team, develop an intimate knowledge of all customers in the assigned client portfolio, coordinate all aspects of the client relationship and effectively work with the relationship team in providing high quality customer service and satisfaction. This role will have accountability of the credit quality of the assigned client portfolio, reviewing credit requests as required to ensure compliance with the bank credit quality standards and ultimately is accountable for the customer experience.

ABOUT OUR OFFER • Sources, originates new clients and foster high quality business opportunities with existing clients through proactive idea generation and selling.

• Recruit and manage a comprehensive portfolio of approx 75-100 corporate clients, to include borrowing and non-borrowing accounts in

diversified sectors of business.

• Manages and significantly grows the existing portfolio by building and broadening the scope of the client relationship and increasing ‘wallet share’ of the client’s investment and banking business services.

• Monitors and controls accounts within the assigned client portfolio.

• Develop and deliver targeted financing solutions for clients.

• Sell customized financing and banking solutions using a diagnostic approach.

• Successful candidates should expect to commit to a minimum 3 year term.

• Flexible working hours are required to meet client demands.

ABOUT YOU • Relationship builder with expert ability of influence and negotiate to win-win solutions.

• Strong and mature team builder and player.

• High degree of initiative, a self-starter and self motivated.

• Graduate status with a minimum of 5 years experience in the business/financial world.

• Proven origination, business development, deal closing and relationship management skills to successfully lead and drive a Corporate banking team.

• In-depth understanding of the Corporate business, financing solutions, credit suite of products and the set of products available across FirstCaribbean.

• Strong understanding of financial options and applicability to various business scenarios.

• Ability to network externally and develop strong connections with the business community and government.

SALARY RANGE: $70,043 - $90,657 Benefits include Life Insurance, Health Insurance and preferred rates on banking and services commensurate with qualifications.

Applicants are requested to submit their resume with a cover letter Via email by December 7th 2012 to: larry.lawrence@cibcfcib.com Tel: 649-941-1601/941-1616 FirstCaribbean International Bank Limited thanks all applicants for their interest, however only those under consideration will be contacted.

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

Page 13

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

LOCAL NEWS

Record number of women in House of Assembly

BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR

The increased number of women elected and appointed to the House of Assembly could soften the tone of debates; at least that is what House Speaker Hon. Robert Hall is hoping for.

Of the 19 member House, seven are women, the highest number of females elected or selected to that body since the recording of democracy first took place in these islands. The country also welcomes its first female Leader of the Opposition in Hon. Sharlene Cartwright Robinson.

Minister of Education, Youth, Sport and Culture Hon. Akierra Misick has become the country’s second female Deputy Premier. Lillian Boyce broke that glass ceiling in 2009, when she was selected by former premier Mike Misick,

to serve as the country’s first deputy premier, after his fallout with then deputy premier, Floyd Hall.

Five of the six women who contested November 9 elections were successful. The lone unsuccessful candidate was Edith Skippings, who contested the tough South Caicos seat against the seemingly irremovable Norman Saunders, who, over a number of years had turned back numerous challenges.

The females elected from the government side are: Deputy Premier Misick, who was ushered in by the people of Long Bay and its environs; Minister of Environment and Home Affairs Hon. Porsha Stubbs-Smith of the Bight Constituency; and Hon. Amanda Missick, Minister of Health and Human Services, who was elected by the people of the Cheshire Constituency. Honorable Ruth Blackman, a former longtime clerk

of the House of Assembly is the Government’s Appointed Member.

In addition to Hon. Sharlene Cartwright Robinson, the other female member of the opposition elected to the House is Deputy Speaker, Hon. Josephine Connolly. Both are At-Large parliamentary winners. Lillian Missick, one of the two Governor’s Appointed Members, rounds off the seventh female in the House.

In his address to the House of Assembly shortly after being sworn in as Speaker of the House, Hall highlighted the increased participation of females in local politics.

“The Deputy Speaker is a lady; the Deputy Premier – a lady; three ministers – ladies; the Honourable Leader of the Opposition – a lady. I hope I am not

deluding myself when I say that perhaps we will see a softer, gentler touch to the affairs of this honourable House,” Hall said.

In the meantime, if Premier Ewing has his way, the House could see a woman performing the role of House Chaplain. Premier Ewing has signaled his intention to nominate Rev. Dr. Julia Williams, former president of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College, to serve in that capacity.

However, the House speaker declared that since that matter was not on the roster for the sitting, it could not go through. And so, the Premier was expected to once again renew his bid when the House resumed on Friday, November 30. But at press time a decision was not made.

AMBERGRIS CAY SERVICES LTD. (IN RECEIVERSHIP)

SHORT TERM EMPLOYMENT POSITION Ambergris Cay Services Ltd. (In Receivership) is seeking to fill a temporary post on Ambergris Cay for the period 13th December 2012 to 6th January 2013. The available position is for a

SPECIAL EVENTS SOUS CHEF

JOB SUMMARY: Responsible for assisting in the management of all facets of the day-to-day operation of the Restaurant Facility on Ambergris Cay, providing exemplary food and beverage service to visitors to the Cay over the Christmas and New Year period. This very demanding job requires high skill levels, assisting in planning, coordination, organization and monitoring of all Restaurant activities, as well as hands-on preparation of a wide range of high quality and creative dishes for a discerning clientele.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1. Assist in planning, preparation and presentation of all meals for guests on Ambergris Cay. 2. Delivery of outstanding food services to a professional standard.

3. Excellent hands-on knowledge of a wide variety of local and international cuisines.

4. Assist in the direct supervision and coordination of all kitchen activities.

5. Assist in all other duties as required by the Lead Chef.

6. Must be able to work irregular hours, to include nights, weekends, and holidays.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND QUALIFICATIONS: 1. 10 years relevant experience, including 5 years as Sous / Events Chef, operating in a high quality and high pressure environment, providing fine-dining in an international environment.

2. International experience of working on special event arrangements; 3. Excellent communication skills and a pleasant, professional demeanor.

4. A resourceful personality.

5. Must work and reside on Ambergris Cay for the indicated period.

6. Excellent references are essential Salary: Commensurate with experience.

Closing date for applications: Tuesday, 4th December, 2012.

Applications must be in writing addressed to: Ambergris Cay Services Ltd. (In Receivership) 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

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

VAT delay in TCI will require change in legislation, says UK minister Any delay in the introduction of Value Added Tax (VAT) in the Turks and Caicos Islands would require a change in legislation and the Governor will have the final say.

This was stated in the House of Commons on November 19th by Britain’s Minister for Overseas Territories Mark Simmonds who was asked if he will allow the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands to delay the introduction of VAT if it wishes to do so.

Simmonds replied: “The Interim Government in Turks and Caicos Islands decided to introduce VAT. Consequently the VAT Bill was signed into law on 18 July 2012 and will come into force on 1 April 2013. Any delay would require a change in legislation. Before giving assent to such legislation, the Governor would need to consider if it was consistent with the Constitution and the Statement of Governance Principles in force.

This requires the new Turks and Caicos Islands Government to formulate and conduct macro-

Britain’s Minister for Overseas Territories Mark Simmonds

economic and fiscal policy for the sustained long-term prosperity of the people of the islands, and to manage public funds according to established principles of value for money, affordability and regularity and in the interests of long-term financial stability.”

Earlier this month, Simmonds told the House of Commons that “the

introduction of value added tax is a decision for the Turks and Caicos Islands Government”.

Both the Progressive National Party (PNP) and the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) have expressed their opposition to VAT. Even if the two parties were to join forces in the House of Assembly and seek to repeal the VAT Bill, the Governor still has reserve powers under the Constitution that can override that decision.

Section 72 of the Constitution states: (1) If the Governor considers that the enactment of legislation is necessary or desirable— (a) for the purpose of securing compliance with an international obligation; (b) to ensure compliance with the Statement of Governance Principles for the time being in effect; (c) to ensure that sufficient funds have been appropriated, within four months of the commencement of each financial year, for the effective operation of committees of the House

of Assembly, the courts, the Attorney General’s Chambers, and each institution protecting good governance; or (d) to give effect, with or without modifications, to the recommendations contained in a report of an Electoral District Boundary Commission, but, after consultation with the Premier, it appears to the Governor that the Cabinet is unwilling to support the introduction into the House of Assembly of a bill for the purpose or that the House is unlikely to pass a bill introduced into it for the purpose, the Governor may, with the prior approval of a Secretary of State, cause a bill for the purpose to be published in the Gazette and may (notwithstanding that the bill has not been passed by the House) assent to it on behalf of Her Majesty; but the bill shall be so published for at least 21 days prior to assent unless the Governor certifies by writing under his or her hand that the matter is too urgent to permit such delay in the giving of assent and so informs a Secretary of State.

Decision on Sports Director Alvin Parker’s fate by next month

BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR

A decision on the future of Alvin Parker as Director of Sports could be determined by next month when investigations are expected to wrap up in the misappropriation of funds allegation leveled against him by the Sports Commission.

Chairman of the Sports Commission, Rodney Cox, told The SUN that investigations were ongoing, and that the body was advancing steps to piece the missing elements of the probe so as to arrive at a conclusion.

Parker was placed on administrative leave in the summer after the Commission said it suspected funds misappropriations, believed to be orchestrated by Parker; and to that end, he was sent on leave pending the outcome of the investigation. Cox stressed that Parker should be perceived as innocent of the accusations until proven otherwise.

“Currently Mr. Parker is still on administrative leave. We are just waiting on the conclusion of the investigations to find out what we are going to do after that. I had a meeting with the ministers and permanent secretaries yesterday (Monday, November 26), so we are just waiting on the audit to finish, and I hope it can

finish before the end of the year, so we would know what to do,” Cox said.

The Sports Commission Chairman, since Parker’s suspension, has somewhat taken on aspects of the directors’ role. He however, expressed a desire to relinquish such position with alacrity either back to Parker or to someone else.

“I am hoping that it finishes soon, because I don’t want to stay in this position for longer than required, with so many people judging me, trying to make it seems I was trying to take this job. I am quite comfortable in South Caicos; I don’t need to be in Provo. I am running the South Caicos office from up here (Provo), and I shouldn’t be doing that.

“But I am doing it because I know its importance, so I am just trying to help out a situation. But I would like to tell people, Mr. Parker is still the director; I am not acting director, and I am not the deputy director. I paid Mr. Parker his cheque every month, so I Know who is the director. I am currently supervising the office until the decisions are made, “Cox emphasized.

Meanwhile, Cox stressed that he could not say much on the investigation since he did not want to cast aspersion on Parker before the facts are in. A source close to the probe told The SUN though, that investigators had requested copies of

Sports Commission cheques tendered at banks and other enterprises, in order to complete their investigation.

Parker has been credited for much of the sports development in the Turks and Caicos Islands over the past five years. Under his watch, the TCI has upped its performance at the Carifta Track and Field Championships, snaring gold not only on the track, but also in field events. He was also credited for breathing new life in basketball and also played a great role

in softball development. Earlier this year Parker was presented with a container load of softball and baseball gear from an American donor. The gear has since been distributed across the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Parker’s last major rites before he was suspended from office was leading a delegation to the United Kingdom to support track prodigy Delano Williams, who was seeking to make the UK’s 200m team for the summer Olympics.

SENIOR PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT PARALEGAL WANTED FOR LITGATION TEAM Job Opportunity

An experienced Professional Support Paralegal is required for a new firm based in Providenciales. The successful candidate must demonstrate experience and knowledge of having dealt independently with all matters relating to contentious practice, litigation, employment law dispute resolution and alternative dispute resolution. Must have excellent communication skills, both written and oral and be capable of production of documents and forms as required. Must have vehicle and clean driving record. The applicant must be able to work overtime when required due to case urgency. References will be required.

Remuneration based on experience – commencing $40k per annum.

Please send application in writing to: Unit 007 SDR Complex, 176 South Dock Road, P.O. Box 666, Providenciales

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

Page 15

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

LOCAL NEWS

Grace Bay Beach, GBC seek world titles at WTA Grand Gala

BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR

The Grace Bay Beach in the Turks and Caicos Islands will be seeking to reclaim the title of the World’s Leading Beach Destination, when the 2012 Grand Gala edition of the World Travel Awards takes place in Deli, India on December 12.

Grace Bay Beach will be seeking to unseat Mauritius’ Trou Aux BichesAitutaki, which won the title last year, when Grace Bay Beach was not even dominated. Last year, too, Grace Bay Beach lost the title for the Caribbean’s Leading Beach, which was won by the seven mile Negril Beach in Jamaica. However, this year it returned to the top of the podium in that category at the Caribbean leg of the event, which was held locally at Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort Villages and Spa. The dazzling beach strip in Providenciales will once again go up against some of the world’s most popular beach destinations, including One Foot Island, Cook Islands; Bora

Bora, Tahiti; Cancun, Mexico; Cape Town, South Africa; Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Goa, India; Maldives; Maui, Hawaii, USA; Mauritius - Trou Aux Biches; Montego Bay, Jamaica and Negril, Jamaica; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Saadiyat beach, Abu Dhabi, UAE; Seychelles - Praslin Anse Lazio; Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt; Sydney, Australia; and The Algarve, Portugal.

The world famous beach strip is not be the only local entrant jockeying for top world positions at the global tourism showpiece, as the luxurious Grace Bay Club has been nominated in a whopping four categories.

Grace Bay Club has been nominated in World's Leading All Suite Hotel category alongside Al Sondos Suites by Le Méridien, Dubai, UAE; Amandari, Indonesia; Burj Al Arab, Dubai, UAE; Hotel Les Ottomans, Turkey; Jamaica Inn, Jamaica; Sandals Royal Plantation, Ocho Rios, Jamaica; The Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh, Egypt; and Tower Club at Lebua, Thailand.

It is also nominated in the World's Leading Hotel & Residences category, being pitted against 51 Buckingham Gate Taj Suites and Residences, England; Cape Royale Luxury Hotel and Residence, South Africa; Conrad Bangkok Residences, Thailand; Hotel AKA, New York, USA; Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, Thailand; The Residences at Las Ventanas, Mexico; and W Doha Hotel and Residences, Qatar.

Grace Bay Club also made the category of World's Leading Luxury All Suite Hotel and World's Ultimate Service Award in Hospitality. In the World’s Leading Luxury All Suite Hotel category, Grace Bay Club will go up against Amandari Resort & Spa, Bali; Burj Al Arab, Dubai, UAE; Elounda Peninsula, Greece; Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, Mexico; Raffles Makkah Palace, Saudi Arabia; Romney Park All Suite Hotel and Spa, South Africa; The Tides Hotel, Florida, USA; and The Venetian, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. In the World's Ultimate Service Award in Hospitality, the local resort

will go up against Dukes Hotel, London; Esperanza, Cabo San Lucas; Grosvenor House Dubai; Hotel Arts Barcelona; Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok; The Oberoi Gurgaon, India; The Plaza, New York; and the St. Regis Bali Resort.

Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort Villages and Spa was nominated for the World's Leading Family Resort. It will try to wrest the title from some of the most popular resorts around the world, including Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket, Thailand; Forte Village Resort, Italy; Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa - Al Aqah Beach, UAE; Hayman Island Resort, Great Barrier Reef, Australia; Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa, Dubai, UAE; Kemer Resort Hotel, Turkey; Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana, Abu Dhabi, UAE; Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai, UAE; Lily Beach Resort & Spa, Maldives; Llao Llao Hotel & Resort, Argentina; Nexus Resort Karambunai, Malaysia.

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa, United Arab Emirates, won the title last year.

GOVERNMENT OF THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

STORM WATER FLOOD RISK MANAGEMENT STUDY

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

The Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCIG) has received financing from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) towards the cost of a Storm Water Flood Risk Management Study and intends to apply a portion of the proceeds of this financing to eligible payments under a contract for which this invitation is issued. Payments by CDB will be made only at the request of TCIG and upon approval by CDB, and will be subject in all respects to the terms and conditions of the Financing Agreement. The Financing Agreement prohibits withdrawal from the financing account for the purpose of any payment to persons or entities, or for any import of goods, if such payment or import, to the knowledge of CDB, is prohibited by a decision of the United Nations Security Council taken under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations. No party other than TCIG shall derive any rights from the Financing Agreement or have any claim to the proceeds of the Financing.

The Ministry of Government Support Services (MGSS), the Executing Agency, now wishes to procure consultancy services for the conduct of the Storm Water Flood Risk Management Study.

The objective of the consultancy is to enhance the capacity of TCIG to manage the risk of storm-water flooding across the Turks and Caicos Islands through the conduct of a Storm Water Flood Risk Management Study, incorporating the key flood risk management elements of prevention, protection, preparedness, emergency response and recovery. The duration of the assignment is expected to be six months.

MGSS now invites interested eligible firms of consultants to submit Expressions of Interest for the provision of these consultancy services.

Consultants shall be eligible to participate if:

(a) in the case of a body corporate, it is legally incorporated or otherwise organised in an eligible country, has its principal place of business in an eligible country and is more than 50 percent beneficially owned by citizen(s) and/or bona fide resident(s) of eligible country(ies) or by a body(ies) corporate meeting these requirements; (b) in the case of unincorporated firms, the persons are citizens or bona fide resident or residents of an eligible country; and

(c) in all cases, the consultant has no arrangement and undertakes not to make any arrangements, whereby any substantial part of the net profits or other tangible benefits of the contract will accrue or be paid to a person not a citizen or bona fide resident of an eligible country.

Eligible countries are member countries of CDB. In the assessment of submissions, consideration will be given to technical competence, qualifications and experience, local and regional experience on similar assignments, financial capability and existing commitments. All information must be submitted in

English. Further information may be obtained from the first address below between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.

One original and four hard copies of the Expressions of Interest must be received at the second address below no later than 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 12, 2012, and one hard copy must be sent simultaneously to CDB at the third address below. The sealed envelope containing each submission should include the name and address of the applicant and shall be clearly marked “Expression of Interest – Consultancy Services – Storm Water Flood Risk Management Study”.

Following the assessment of submissions, a short-list of not less than three and not more than six applicants will be provided with full terms of reference and invited to submit technical and financial proposals to undertake the assignment. TCIG reserves the right to accept or reject late applications or to cancel the present invitation partially or in its entirety. It will not be bound to assign any reason for not short-listing any applicant and will not defray any costs incurred by any applicant in the preparation and submission of Expressions of Interest.

1. Address for further information: Mr. Norman A Watts Engineering Supervisor Public Works Department Ministry of Government Support Services South Base Grand Turk TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

Tel: + (649) 946-2801 Ext 10902 Fax: + (649) 333-1951 Email: nwatts@gov.tc 2. Address for submission of Expression of Interest: The Chairman of the Tender Board N.J.S. Francis Building Pond Street Grand Turk TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS

3. Address for submission of additional copy of Expression of Interest: Procurement Officer Procurement Policy Unit Caribbean Development Bank P. O. Box 408, Wildey St. Michael BARBADOS, W.I., BB 11000 Tel: Fax: Email:

+ (246) 431-1600 + (246) 426-7269 procurement@caribank.org

This Request for Expressions of Interest supersedes that which was posted on Development Business Online on October 29, 2012 with Ref. No. CDB31-10/12.

Page 16

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

LOCAL NEWS

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

A PROTOCOL OFFICE MUST BE ESTABLISHED

By Royal S. Robinson, MBE The recently held Swearing in Ceremony and its attendant activities highlighted the need for a properly established Protocol Unit of government. You may say why this in the present scheme of things when there are other pressing and competing areas that are in dire need of funding. Protocol represents the external face of a country and is the image that everyone, near and far sees as projecting the people of our country.

We are heavily engaged in the tourism business where image is everything!

We cannot let our side down by sloppy and unprofessional work. We cannot let others that come into our midst just do things that are not proper and let them get away with it, because they think that it is fine and dandy to do. We must at all cost resist such an imposition.

You might properly wonder what I know about protocol. I can tell you that when 1985/86 when Sir Lyndon O. Pindling, then Prime Minister of the Bahamas was having a major challenge from the FNM, in order to shore up his base, among the Turks and Caicos Islanders in the Bahamas, he made a state visit to us here. The

persons in charge of the protocol for that visit throughout our country were Cheryl Francis, now Chand and Royal Robinson. So I can speak with some authority having put on, what in those days was a spectacular series of events!

The House of Assembly is the peoples’ House and does not come under the purview of the Governor.

He cannot enter that chamber except by the leave of the Members or a specific request on his part to be there. Otherwise, he would be considered as any other strange, who, can but only seat in the strangers’ gallery and not be in the well of the Chamber. So Governor Todd was way out of his place to dictate who should and should not be given invitations to attend that Ceremony or any other ceremony of the House of Assembly.

The guest list is certainly not his prerogative, and never was. He must remember that even though he might have a lot of power under the present Constitution, he is not all powerful as when he was chief cook and bottle washer under the Interim Constitution.

The Speech from the Throne is generally one of the highlights in the calendar of Westminster styled Democracy. It sets out the

ROYAL ROBINSON CONTRIBUTER

government’s agenda for the ensuing session of Parliament. It establishes the priority of the government going forward. Because of its singular importance, it is read by the Monarch or the Monarch’s representative, who in our case is the Governor. But it is never the Governor’s speech! For a sitting Governor to think or believe otherwise is utter nonsense. So when this Governor was trying to insist that the recent Throne Speech was his to prepare and deliver, was totally ridiculous and outside the years of established norms. But that is what you get when you have a man in high office who is so full of himself, that he pays scant regard for what is traditional!

The second part of the deviation from protocol, I would put down systems failure as a result of the Governor’s interference in the process. You might not personally like the holders of certain officers, but once the persons hold such offices, then you must respect them in them.

Cases in point, initially, the Haitian Ambassador to the Bahamas was not initially, properly looked after. It was only after I pointed out the goodly gentleman to the ushers that he was eventually seated within the House of Assembly. Equally egregious, was the fact that a former two time Chief Minister, in the person of O.O. Skippings, a former Member and

Deputy Speaker, Dwayne Taylor, former Ministers of Education and Tourism in the persons of Arabella Smith and Wayne Garland respectively, and I as a former Deputy Premier were seated outside!

Nowhere in hell could that have been right or proper! I made noise for Skippings, because in the scheme of things, he had seniority.

I say these things now, so that in the future, those mistakes would not happen again. So I come full circle to my original premise about the need for a fully staffed and functioning protocol unit. We have some persons that had previously been involved in that business and they should be harnessed to lead such a unit. There would be the need to recruit young talented Turks and Caicos Islanders to fill the necessary roles. Of equal importance would be the need to, for a short period to enlist the support of the Protocol Office of the Bahamas in the initial effort. I do not think that there is a Caribbean country is more steeped into protocol and the pomp and pageantry of such stately occasions as the Bahamas, so learn from the best!

I must say that all is not lost. For even with the abovementioned hiccups, the event was well attended and appreciated by the people of our country. The return to representative democracy was well anticipated and we were in awe of the event and waited with bated breath as some of the events unfolded. Would Robert Hall succeed as Speaker? Would the Governor read what was written?

Many of us were keeping our fingers crossed in the event that things did not go to plan and that pandemonium would have broken out.

I can safely say God bless the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands for their steadfastness in the face of great adversity.

Royal Robinson was a former Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance and Health in the Progressive National Party (PNP) Administration.

VACANCY

FINANCIAL / MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTANT Applications are invited for the position of

Location – Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Educational requirements – Bachelor’s degree in finance and accounting or equivalent Professional requirements – US Certified Public Accountant or UK Chartered Accountant; practical experience in the financial services sector with management accounting is preferred.

Knowledge in accounting IT systems is necessary.

ONLY BELONGERS NEED APPLY. Please submit applications to: Human Resources, P.O. Box 270, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

Page 17

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

LOCAL NEWS

Air Turks and Caicos announces new route to Santo Domingo Air Turks & Caicos, the national flag carrier of the Turks & Caicos Islands, is proud to announce flights into Santo Domingo, starting December 14th, 2012.

Air Turks and Caicos Chairman Lyndon Gardiner said the new route is being introduced to satisfy a growing customer demand for direct services between the Turks and

Caicos and the Dominican capital.

He said it also opens up the TCI tourism market to easier connections from Europe, South, and Central America - as the Dominican Republic is already a popular vacation spot well known to these travelers with many daily flights from these destinations.?

Gardiner told SUNtv that this

announcement reaffirms his company’s 20 year commitment to serving passengers needs.

Commencing December 14th, the one hour and fifteen minutes flight will operate four times weekly on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday - using the company’s fleet of 30-passenger planes. These aircraft offers comfortable seating, lavatory,

galley and friendly flight attendant service. With connection services to The Bahamas, Jamaica and Haiti, the Santo Domingo route allows passengers to travel with ease on Air Turks and Caicos for their entire journey.

To introduce the new route, Air Turks & Caicos has on offer a special fare - $150 each way (plus taxes).

SALVATION ARMY KICKS OFF CHRISTMAS KETTLE DRIVE

The Salvation Army launched its Christmas Red Kettle Drive on November 27, in front of the Graceway IGA Supermarket. The Red Kettle drive is synonymous to the Christmas season since funds collected from that initiative are primarily used to brighten the lives of individuals during that time of the year. This year the Royal Bank of Canada added its support to the Red Kettle initiative, joining Graceway IGA Supermarket and others.

Toure Holder, Branch Manager for the Royal Bank of Canada, who made an undisclosed donation at the event, urged other local businesses to join in the cause to bring smiles to the face of the less fortunate this Christmas.

Ken Burns, Manager for IGA Supermarket and his finance director, Edith Cox, made donation on behalf of the enterprise. Both also urged the public to contribute to the cause. Leslie Foss of the Chrysalis Fun Run donated $3,000. Major Lester Ferguson, Lieutenant Colonel Raphael Mason and Salvation Army Advisory Board Chairman Todd Foss, also urged the public to contribute whatever they could to the cause, stressing that no sum was too small. The Precious Treasures Primary School provided musical entertainment for the event. In photo Burns and Cox made the donation on behalf of Graceway IGA Supermarket.

AMBERGRIS CAY SERVICES LTD. (IN RECEIVERSHIP) SHORT TERM EMPLOYMENT POSITION

Ambergris Cay Services Ltd. (In Receivership) is seeking to fill a temporary post on Ambergris Cay for the period 18th December 2012 to 6th January 2013. The available position is for a PASTRY CHEF. JOB SUMMARY: Responsible for assisting in the management of the day-to-day pastry operation of the Restaurant Facility on Ambergris Cay, providing exemplary food and beverage service to visitors to the Cay over the Christmas and New Year period. Performing additional responsibilities, although not detailed, as requested by the Lead Chef and/or Sous Chef ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1. Assisting the Lead Chef and Sous Chef with all back house operations; 2. Assist in planning, preparation and presentation of meals for guests on Ambergris Cay. 3. Preparing and cooking necessary food items as advised by the Lead Chef or Sous Chef 4. Cleaning and maintaining kitchen work stations 5. Keeping all necessary stocks organized 6. Delivery of outstanding food services to a professional standard.

7. Excellent hands-on knowledge of a wide variety of local and international cuisines.

8. Must be able to work irregular hours, to include nights, weekends, and holidays.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND QUALIFICATIONS: 1. 5 years relevant experience operating in a high quality international environment.

2. International experience of preparing food for special events.

3. Excellent communication skills and a pleasant, professional demeanor.

4. A resourceful personality.

5. Must work and reside on Ambergris Cay for the indicated period.

6. Excellent references are essential Salary: Commensurate with experience.

Closing date for applications: Tuesday, 10th December, 2012.

Applications must be in writing addressed to: Ambergris Cay Services Ltd. (In Receivership) 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.

AMBERGRIS CAY FACILITIES LTD POSITION AVAILABLE

Ambergris Cay Facilities Ltd is seeking an employee on a month to month basis to fill a post on Ambergris Cay. The available post is for a

POWER AND INCINERATOR PLANT OPERATOR

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Maintain Fuel Farm, gray tank, generator tank and tractor fuel in accordance with international standards.

• Maintain and supply treatment to fuel tanks.

• Maintain and control stocks of fuel.

• Maintain inventory of spare and repair parts, materials and tools to ensure continuous functioning without discontinuity.

• Provide weekly and monthly reports on fuel.

• Check all piping for leakage.

• Report any and all matters to Facilities Manager • Basic power plant maintenance.

• Incinerator maintenance & operation and all related tasks • Ensure all work sites are left in a usable and safe condition.

• Participate in fire training.

REQUIREMENTS - APPLICANT MUST BE AND OR HAVE:

• Able to work with little or no supervision.

• Must have at least three (5) years of experience in the related fields • Required to work and live on Ambergris Cay with rotated weekends off.

Salary: Between US$30,000 to US$36,000 per annum

Closing Date for Applications is Friday December 4th, 2012.

Applications must be in writing addressed to: Ambergris Cay Facilities Ltd, Unit 51, Salt Mills Plaza, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, E-mail: burkley.malcolm@ambergristci.com Tel: (649)-941-3777; Fax: (649)-941-3778.

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LOCAL NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

‘I Believe’ programme gathers momentum Business enterprises are called upon to play a leading role in the “I Believe” initiative aimed at raising funds to primarily assist schools with basic but critical amenities for schools and the public library on Providenciales.

Heath Francis, who heads the organization with his wife Tameka, said that the organization was currently undertaking a raffle book sale drive that has a number of attractive prizes, including a trip to New York. The individual that sells the most tickets stands to win $1,000.

Francis said that companies which have decided to assist in book sales would get 10 percent of the total sales, which would then place on a large carbon cheque and presented as their donation towards the public library.

Companies currently engaged in the sales of tickets are Digicel TCI Cinemas, Marco Travel, Escape Salon and Spa and LIME TCI. “We are still awaiting others that we have contacted. Those companies willing to assist in the worthy cause can contact me on 244-1079 or email me at: h_francis01@yahoo.com, to get their companies involved,” Francis said.

The drawing of the prizes for I Believe is scheduled to take place on December 22. Francis said the funds collected would be divided amongst three schools – the Clement Howell High School, the Enid Capron Primary School and the Alpha Christian Academy.

As part of the I Believe Programme, Francis said that he was in negotiations with the Graceway IGA Supermarket, the Graceway Gourmet Store and the Do It Centre, to initiate a Christmas Toy Drive. He said that this initiative would allow for members of the community to purchase and, or drop off of toys at the collection drums that would provided at the locations for the Holiday Season.

Francis said that students are enthusiastic about selling books in a bid to gain the $1,000

The ‘I Believe’ banner which shows two of the topping ticket-selling students

prize. From the Clement Howell High School, Oshin Whyte is said to be in the lead, but her lead may not be big, as a number of other students were breathing down her neck in terms of ticket sales.

The same could be true for Alpha Christian Academy, where Jonelle Beckford is in the lead.

The race is reportedly tight at the Enid Capron Primary School, with no clear cut leader emerging as yet.

The Francis’ decried the sad state of affairs that some of these schools were in. According to them, some of the facilities were badly in need of sanitary upgrade. They also said that, especially at the Clement Howell High School, there was a chronic lack of desks and chairs, resulting in some students having to stand during class time.

They said also that some of the classes at the Clement Howell High School are had no proper chalk board on which to write.

They stressed the point that a number of persons in the community may be willing to assist with the upgrade of some of these schools but wanted to find the proper way of doing, and so, the I Believe initiative has provided the avenue.

The couple said that after materials under the programme are sourced for school repairs, they would be organizing a students’ work day that would see the pupils assisting in repairing broken areas. By applying this method, they argued, students would be more appreciative their surroundings and would take better care.

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

LOCAL NEWS

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DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

LOCAL NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

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LOCAL NEWS

After three and half years of direct rule from the United Kingdom, the Turks and Caicos Islands officially returned to self rule, with the opening of the House of Assembly at the NJS Francis Building in Grand Turk on November 28. The event was a mixture of pomp and pageantry, and which was attended by both local and foreign dignitaries, including from the Bahamas. The event included a march past by members of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force and inspection of the Guard of Honour by His Excellency Governor Ric Todd. The opening of the House was preceded by an ecumenical service at the St. Mary’s Pro Cathedral Anglican Church in Grand Turk. Self rule in the TCI was suspended on August 14, 2009, following recommendations from a commission of inquiry report into government operation. The following are photo highlights of the event.

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'Two and a Half Men' actor apologizes after criticizing the show as 'filth' NEW YORK- Teenage actor Angus T. Jones of the comedy "Two and a Half Men" apologized Tuesday for a series of interviews denouncing his own show, an episode that has rivaled former colleague Charlie Sheen's meltdown as an off-screen oddity.

Speaking to religious media outlets, the 19-year-old Jones has called the CBS comedy "filth" and "very inappropriate" and talked about how his religious awakening has affected his attitude toward life and work.

"Two and a Half Men," television's third most popular comedy, remains heavy on sexual innuendo even with Ashton Kutcher replacing bad-boy Sheen following his firing for drug use and a subsequent public meltdown.

Jones, who started on the show when he was 10, plays Jake Harper, son of the uptight character portrayed by Emmy winner Jon Cryer.

In a statement issued late Tuesday, Jones said he had the highest regard for all of the people he has worked with on the comedy, including creator Chuck Lorre and Warner Bros. studio chief

Angus T. Jones

Peter Roth.

"I apologize if my remarks reflect me showing indifference to and disrespect of my colleagues and a lack of appreciation of the extraordinary opportunity of which I have been blessed," said Jones, who reportedly makes $350,000 an episode. "I never intended that."

Jones wasn't at the studio lot for a

rehearsal on Tuesday. He's not scheduled to appear on the two episodes that are being filmed before the end of the year, said a person close to the show who spoke on condition of anonymity because Warner Bros. and CBS haven't commented publicly on Jones. His character has recently joined the Army and his airtime has been cut down.

His real-life adventure came to light on Monday, when he said in a video posted by the Forerunner Chronicles in Seale, Ala., featured him talking about not wanting to be on "Two and a Half Men" anymore.

"Please stop watching it," Jones said. "Please stop filling your head with filth."

In a radio broadcast, "The Voice of Prophecy," recorded for the Seventhday Adventist Church on Jones' birthday in October, Jones described his religious path. He has been attending a Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Los Angeles area.

Jones said he felt drawn to God after a tough time in his life when his parents were going through a divorce

Lohan arrested in NY, charged also for California car smash Actress Lindsay Lohan was arrested outside a New York nightclub on an assault charge early Thursday, police said, while in California, she was charged with reckless driving and lying to police over a car crash in June.

Lohan, 26, was arrested shortly after 4:00 a.m. (0900 GMT) on a third-degree misdemeanor assault charge after punching another woman in the face at a club in Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood, New York police said.

The charges in California were more serious, and could result in the "Mean Girls" actress having her probation revoked and being sent back to jail.

Lohan's publicist and attorney did not return calls for comment on Thursday.

Lohan, who has been to rehab, jail and court numerous times since a 2007 arrest for drunk driving and cocaine possession, is currently on informal probation, following her January 2011 conviction for stealing a gold necklace from a California jewelry store.

A Los Angeles judge had lifted her formal probation in March but told her to comply with all laws and stay out of trouble.

Police in the beach city of Santa Monica said Lohan was formally charged on Thursday with reckless driving and lying to police after telling them she was not driving the Porsche that smashed into a

truck on a busy highway. No one was seriously injured in the collision.

Lohan was also charged with obstructing an officer in his duty. A court date has not been set, Santa Monica police said in a statement.

In New York, Lohan was accused of punching a 28-year-old unidentified woman multiple times in the face, said New York Police Sergeant John Buthorn.

The victim sustained "minor, minor injuries," he said.

The actress was released from police custody later on Thursday morning.

The two incidents come during a rough week for the former child star, once one of the most promising young actresses in Hollywood.

Her most recent performance, as screen legend Elizabeth Taylor in the TV movie "Liz & Dick," was panned by critics. Cable TV channel Lifetime said Monday that a modest 3.5 million Americans watched the film, which premiered last weekend.

Lohan's recent visits to New York have been peppered with run-ins with police and public spats.

Last month, police were called to the Long Island home of Lohan's mother, Dina Lohan, after a loud argument, though no arrests were made. In September, Lohan was arrested in Manhattan after a pedestrian told police her car had struck him in an alley, but charges were not filed.

and he experimented with drugs.

"I never drank," he said. "That was one thing God protected me from, and I'm still a virgin. God protected me from those things."

Jones said that "it's very weird that I'm on a television show, especially now that I am trying to walk with God. My television show has nothing to do with God and doesn't want anything to do with God." Still, he said he had no plans to get out of his contract.

In another interview posted on Tuesday with Christianity Today, Jones described himself as a "paid hypocrite."

"Even though it's my job to be an actor, I have given my life to God," he said. "I am very comfortable and firm in that, but I still have to be on this show. It's the No. 1 comedy, but it's very inappropriate and the themes are very inappropriate. I have to be this person I am not."

"Two and a Half Men," which has seen its ratings tumble this fall with a move to Thursdays, is now behind "The Big Bang Theory" and "Modern Family" in the comedy ratings.

R&B star Mary J. Blige sued for defaulting on $2.2 million loan R&B star Mary J. Blige was hit with a lawsuit on Wednesday alleging the Grammy winner and her husband defaulted on a $2.2 million bank loan.

According to court documents filed in New York State Supreme Court in Manhattan, Signature Bank is seeking to recoup the original loan plus $58,000 in interest.

Blige, 41, who has sold more than 50 million albums worldwide, and her husband Martin Isaacs took R&B star Mary J. Blige out the loan in October 2011 and defaulted in July 2012, the suit alleges.

Blige's publicist declined comment on the lawsuit. The singer's attorney did not immediately return a request to comment.

The lawsuit also names Blige's production company, Mary Jane Productions Inc. The lawsuit is the latest financial headache for the New York City native. The "Family Affair" singer's charity, The Mary J. Blige and Steve Stoute Foundation for the Advancement of Women Now Inc, was accused earlier in this year of mishandling funds and cheating scholarship students.

Blige acknowledged the problems in a June interview.

"The lives of young women are at stake," the singer told Reuters when asked about the allegations. "I feel what they feel.

I don't want them to suffer. I promised them something and I'm gonna deliver. Period."

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 19TH - JUNE 26TH, 2009

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

FUN & GAMES LOCAL NEWS

June 22-28, 2009

FUN & GAMES

Page 31

King Features Weekly Service

June 22-28, 2009

—

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HIGHLIGHTS

Bolt named World Athlete of the Year READ MORE ON PAGE 34

Former Chairman Lawrence Duprey may face criminal charges in the CLICO affair Lawrence Duprey and other former CL Financial officials may face charges of conspiracy to defraud and conceal millions of dollars as investigations into the wheeling and dealing at the collapsed conglomerate get under way, according to a report published in the Sunday Guardian online newspaper.

According to the report, “as the State begins to build its case, investigations have revealed questionable transactions taking place at CL Financial Ltd from as far back as 1992.”

“Serious allegations of fraud have been discovered, compounded with multiple breaches of the Insurance Act and fraudulent trading under the Companies Act. Instances in which depositors’ savings were taken to advance personal interest also form vital evidence. Before the collapse of the conglomerate in 2009, CL Financial controlled over $100 billion of assets in at least 28 companies throughout the region and the world,” the report states.

The group’s financial interests covered several industry sectors,

Lawrence Duprey

including banking and financial services, energy, real estate and manufacturing and distribution. This Sunday Guardian exposé examines the allegations about the “unlawful acts” which led to the demise of the financial giant—and left mogul Lawrence Duprey claiming he was without “a damn cent.”

A letter obtained by the Sunday Guardian that Director of Public

Prosecutions (DPP) Roger Gaspard and sent to Attorney General Anand Ramlogan in September said, “The losses arising from the collapse were so large that it is difficult to conceive that they all resulted from honest but utterly incompetent management coupled with a sudden economic downturn.”

In the letter, Gaspard concluded that on the basis of the documents forwarded to him that officials of CL Financial had a case to answer. “There is sufficient material before me to say that CLICO appears to have been managed with a reckless disregard of the regulatory framework provided by the Insurance Act. Consequently, I am satisfied that a criminal investigation should be conducted into whether those who constituted the controlling mind of CLICO committed breaches of the Insurance Act and similar related breaches of the Companies Act,” Gaspard stated.

In addition, Gaspard said, there is also ample material to justify an investigation into whether more serious offences—conspiracy to

defraud and larceny—were committed by the “controlling minds” of CLICO, CLICO Investment Bank Ltd (CIB), CLICO Energy and CL Financial.

“CIB had an important role in supplying what in reality were worthless fixed deposit notes to boost the paper strength of other companies.

The basis of such a case would be that there was a conspiracy to defraud CLICO policyholders and mutual fund investors by using assets and funds of CLICO in a way which was completely contrary to their interest and whether that amounted to larceny,” he said.

The investigation, Gaspard said, would deal with whether there were conspiracies to defraud the State: • By disguising the true financial condition of companies that regulators had to report on • By failing to seek approval for the CLICO Energy saleSÉ • By the Oman Methanol dividend diversion Gaspard also warned that it would cause “consternation” to policyholders of CLICO if they were to hear there was to be no investigation when there were such compelling grounds for one.

Former US president Jimmy Carter joins volunteers building homes for Haitians

Cuba no threat to Barbados

PORT AU PRINCE, Haiti – Former United States president Jimmy Carter and his wife have joined volunteers from across the world in building 100 homes for residents in Leogane, 18 miles south of the capital, which bore the brunt of the 2010 earthquake that killed an estimated 300,000 people and left more than a million others homeless.

The Carters are joining the 29th annual Habitat for Humanity International project where volunteers are helping to construct the homes throughout the course of the week.

Last year 100 homes were built during the Carter Work Project, and an additional 50 homes were built in the community by volunteers from the Irish non-profit, Haven.

"We were both deeply moved by the experience in a country we have known and loved for years. We have a deep personal investment in the future of Haiti and are happy to be building 100 homes in Leogane again this year,” Carter said.

Chief executive officer for Habitat for Humanity International, Jonathan Reckford, said “even though nearly three years have passed since the 2010 earthquake, there remains a dire need for adequate shelter in Haiti for many who were displaced from their homes, so we are bringing the Carter Work Project back to Leogane to help more families and to raise awareness of the ongoing efforts to rebuild lives.

“We sincerely thank all the volunteers, sponsors and especially the Carters for their dedication to improving the lives of our Haitian partner families who are eager to have safe, decent homes."

Each year since 1984, President and Mrs. Carter have volunteered with Habitat for Humanity for one week, building homes and hope in 14 countries around the world and providing inspiration to millions of people around the world who share Habitat's vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to live.

Barbados should be preparing to exploit available opportunities in Cuba rather than fearfully anticipating crippling competition if American restrictions on that country are eased.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Senator Maxine McClean said this was the stance she was personally taking, and one others in Barbados should also adopt.

She was speaking in the Senate as members debated the Value Added Tax (Barbados Network Programme) (Validation) Bill, 2012, which contains provisions to make the lives of Barbadians returning home much easier.

McClean said the island’s foreign policy reflected its appreciation about the importance of continual engagement with countries like Cuba.

“In recent times many people have been saying our tourist industry needs to start to fear the opening up of the Cuban market and I say to myself ‘that is a very strange way of thinking, that’s a very negative way of thinking’,” the minister said.

“In these things we should see opportunities in the same way that many of our regional neighbours have done so and what I see as that country’s political system and economic system evolves is the opportunity for creative persons to take advantage of that evolution and to see it as potential for partnership, rather (than) seeing it as potential competition, which would do damage to us.

“But my way of thinking perhaps is one that should be adopted by a lot of other people and really and truly there are opportunities for that to happen,” she added.

The official said Government was keen to fully engage its large Diaspora, in addition to making it easier to reconnect with the land of their birth or descent.

“Barbadians in the Diaspora, whether they are there as part of a Government assignment, whether they are there as private citizens and so on … are making significant contributions and in fact helping to shape and execute our foreign policy,” she said.

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CARIBBEAN NEWS

UK fiscal framework in Cayman Islands may stay in law There is no “sunset” or end date for the UK-drafted Framework for Fiscal Responsibility now contained within the Cayman Islands Public Management and Finance Law, UK officials confirmed Thursday.

According to the Caymanian Compass, during his first visit to the Cayman Islands, British Overseas Territories Department Director Peter Hayes – who replaced former director Colin Roberts in October – fielded questions during a press conference about the fiscal framework document and other issues. “[The Framework for Fiscal Responsibility] doesn’t sunset,” Mr. Hayes said. ‘But it’s not something that we would see as cast in stone forever.”

Right now, the framework agreement – signed by Premier

McKeeva Bush in November 2011 and passed into law by legislators this month – sets guidelines on certain areas like government spending and borrowing, bidding for public projects and rules for financial reporting.

The document prevents the Cayman Islands from entering into any further long-term borrowing to support public projects through June 30, 2016. The only exception to that rule is in the case of natural disasters affecting the Islands.

“One would hope, as the financial management situation develops and as the guidelines come back within the debt limits…then obviously we want to make sure the Framework for Fiscal Responsibility is keeping pace with circumstances,” Mr. Hayes said.

Cayman Islands Governor

Duncan Taylor elaborated.

“There’s a timetable to get the government finances back into a position where they meet all the borrowing guidelines,” Mr. Taylor said. “At that stage, assuming we get there, then some of the ability of the minister in the UK to have a say in the setting of the [Cayman Islands] budget falls away.

However, the principles of sound management will stay in the finance law, and that could include new rules for things like public project procurement.

“We may well have a new procurement law,” Mr. Taylor said.

“What you may find is those basic principles that are in the Framework for Fiscal Responsibility might be incorporated into some other bit of the Public Management and Finance Law at some stage.”

The governor also sought to downplay fears that the enactment of the fiscal framework would somehow hold up the ForCayman Investment Alliance negotiations between government and the Dart group of companies. However, he noted that the UK’s financial adviser may wish to have a word with both parties involved in the agreement.

The negotiations include a proposal to relocate a section of West Bay Road along Seven Mile Beach and build a waste management facility in Bodden Town.

“It’s not a procurement process as such,” he said. “You’re not in a competitive tendering position because you’re looking at some swaps there between what government have and what Dart has.”

FBI Investigating Trinidad Security Minister Jack Warner PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad - Trinidad and Tobago’s national security minister Jack Warner is being investigated by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), the daily Express Newspaper has reported The FBI probe is based on money-laundering allegations against Warner, a former FIFA vicepresident, the paper reported in its online edition Monday.

The charge against Warner stems from his relationship with Chuck Blazer, former General Secretary of CONCACAF, the football federation for North and Central America and the Caribbean.

“As a matter of long-standing policy, we do not comment on law enforcement matters.” the United States Embassy in Port of Spain said in a statement.

The Embassy was responding to questions on whether FBI officials will be in Trinidad and Tobago to gather evidence.

Blazer was the whistle-blower into the bribes-forvotes allegations made against Warner and Qatar football official Mohammed bin Hammam at a last year’s Caribbean Football Union (CFU) meeting in Port of Spain.

Blazer’s allegations, leading up to FIFA’s presidential election last year, resulted in Warner’s resignation as vice-president of FIFA, president of CONCACAF and president of the Caribbean Football Union.

Last year, Blazer was also the subject of an FBI enquiry for allegedly hiding a multi-million-dollar offshore account.

At the time, the FBI was examining evidence that payments may have come from the CFU during the time of Warner’s presidency.

In September, newly-appointed CONCACAF president Jeffrey Webb said the finances of CONCACAF under Warner’s tenure, were still being probed by the United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Acting Commissioner of Police Stephen Williams has been quoted as saying he had not been informed of any investigation.

However the Financial Intelligence Bureau (FIB) of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service is

reportedly investigating the matter.

But speaking at a public forum of the ruling United National Congress (UNC) on Monday night, Warner denied he was the subject of any investigation.

Warner said there is a clear agenda among some sections of the media to destabilise the People’s Partnership Government and threatened a lawsuit against the Express newspaper.

“FBI probes Jack Warner is the headline today.

Million dollar probe on Jack Warner. The intention is to get Jack. In their blighted thinking if Jack Warner goes…all falls down.

“But this government will not fall! Look at all the negative articles in that same newspaper. Jack today, Anand tomorrow and Kamla every day,” Warner said, noting that he had already charged instructed his lawyers to send pre-action protocol letters to the media house.

Bermuda elections candidate caught with marijuana steps down HAMILTON, Bermuda – Following his arrest for the possession of marijuana, a candidate from the ruling Progressive Labour Party (PNP) has pulled out of the race for next month’s General election.

Late Wednesday, the PLP said a new candidate to replace Makai Dickerson would be unveiled on Thursday morning.

Dickerson, described as a rising star by the PLP, was due to challenge Opposition Leader Craig Cannonier in Devonshire South Central in the December 17 election.

Dickerson’s resignation followed his admission earlier this week that police found him in possession of a “very small” amount of marijuana in September before he was rolled out as a PLP candidate.

“After much reflection, I have decided to step down as a candidate. I do this because this election is too important and my personal shortcomings shouldn’t cause any further distractions for my party and the voters of Bermuda during this important time,” he said in a statement.

“I appreciate that my party supports me and offered to give me a second chance but I

believe that the future of our country is at stake and I don’t want my personal situation causing unnecessary problems for my party.”

On Monday, the PLP said it was taken by surprise by news of Dickerson’s arrest.

National Security Minister Wayne Perinchief acknowledged the PLP was “caught on the backfoot” when Dickerson told the party about his arrest a few days ago.

Dickerson said in an earlier statement: “I made a mistake. I ask my God, my family and my community for forgiveness.

He is due to appear in court just before the general election.

More than 80 candidates, including nine independents , are due to contest the election in which the PLP, which now holds 24 of the 36 seats in the House of Assembly, is seeking a fourth term in office against a backdrop of continuing gang violence, eight per cent unemployment and a national debt of US$1.4 billion.

The 18-month-old One Bermuda Alliance holds an 11-point lead over the PLP in opinion polls

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CARIBBEAN NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

Bolt named World Athlete of the Year BARCELONA—Usain Bolt won the IAAF World Athlete of the Year award for the fourth time yesterday over US hurdler Aries Merritt and Kenyan runner David Rudisha. The Jamaican sprinter, who defended his 100 and 200 metre gold medals at this summer’s Olympic Games, had previously won the award in 2008, 2009, and 2011.

United States sprinter Allyson Felix took home the women’s World Athlete of the Year award.

“For me this is a great honour to win a fourth time. I really worked hard and I was really focused this year. This season was one of my toughest. I had my ups and downs, even though we don’t like to talk about them,” said Bolt, who thanked his coach and the fans at this summer’s Olympics. “The London games were magnificent. Fans were there in the stadium from ten in the morning, I had never seen anything like that.”

Jamaica’s Minister in charge of Sports Natalie Neita-Headley congratulated Bolt as well as his Coach Glen Mills who was awarded the Lifetime Coaching Award. “The nation is particularly pleased that the highest governing body of the sport has seen them worthy of these awards in this, the 50th year of Jamaica's independence,” said Headley.

Prince Albert of Monaco, Jamaican athlete Usain Bolt, US sprinter Allyson Felix and IAAF (International Association of Athletics Federations) President Lamine Diack pose for photographers during the IAAF´s Athlete of the Year Award marking its centenary on November 24, 2012

“Having gained the premier individual award in international athletics, Ambassador Bolt has again made a remarkable achievement by becoming the first man to be named the World Male Athlete of the Year for the fourth time. Coach Mills has been awarded the Lifetime Coaching Award, showcasing the impact that he has had not only on athletics in Jamaica, but the world. These awards are further proof that Jamaica's sport industry has the potential to propel us further toward our economic

development goals,” Headley declared.

In 2003, Bolt and Felix won the Rising Star awards for the most promising young athletes of the year.

Felix won the 200-metre gold medal in London after settling for silver four years earlier in Beijing. “I decided to rededicate myself even harder and it was a blessing in disguise. I was able to work harder than ever before and finally it all came together,” she said.

The other finalists for the women’s award were New Zealand shot putter Valerie Adams and British heptathlete Jessica Ennis—both gold medalists in London. Merritt won the Inspiration Award for his season, which included a gold medal and a world record in the 110 hurdles.

Rudisha, who was named Athlete of the Year in 2010, won the Performance of the Year award for his record-setting gold medal run in the 800 metres. Javelin thrower Keshorn Walcott of Trinidad and Bahamas sprinter Anthonique Strachan won the Rising Star awards.

The awards were announced on the final day of the IAAF’s 100th anniversary celebration.

Barbados power company seeks to acquire Dominican electricity company BRIDGETOWN, Barbados –The Barbados Light & Power Holdings Ltd. (LPH) has announced that it has signed letters of intent to acquire controlling interest in Dominica Electricity Services Ltd. (DOMLEC) from WRB Enterprises Inc. of Tampa, Florida, and its affiliated entities.

DOMLEC is the sole electric utility for the island of Dominica, serving 34,000 customers. WRB owns 52% of DOMLEC, with 21% held by Dominica Social Security Scheme and the remainder by other investors.

According to the joint release issued by the two companies, they are working to complete the transaction within a matter of weeks as they aim to have it finalised before the end of 2012 "The acquisition of DOMLEC is consistent with our strategy to build a business of scale in the Caribbean," said LPH Managing Director Peter Williams.

"We believe our operational expertise, and our commitment to stabilizing customer costs by introducing alternative sources of energy for electricity generation, create new potential for adding value to the benefit of customers in Dominica. We also look forward to maintaining a productive relationship with local investors, including the Dominica Social Security Scheme."

“WRB is proud of our association with DOMLEC, and with accomplishments at the company over many years,” said WRB's President, Bob Blanchard, Jr, of the

company which owns WIV Cable in Turks and Caicos Islands and once owned Turks and Caicos Utilities in Grand Turk. “This has not been an easy decision but we have come to know LPH and believe this decision will enhance the capacity of DOMLEC to serve its customers.”

Mr. Blanchard added that LPH and WRB are working together to implement a continuity plan to ensure change of control activities occur with customer service and employee alignment as a priority.

LPH and WRB have also agreed they will collaborate in the future on development of new renewable energy projects in the Caribbean.

Light & Power Holdings, an investment company with electricity being its core business, is a whollyowned subsidiary of Emera Inc., an energy and services company based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. LPH has a majority interest in Barbados Light and Power Company Limited, which has been serving electricity customers in Barbados since 1911, and holds a minority interest in St. Lucia Electricity Services. The Common Shares of Light & Power Holdings are quoted on the Barbados Stock Exchange.

WRB Enterprises is based in Tampa, Florida. In addition to Caribbean holdings in electric utilities, cable television and telecommunications, WRB has more than 50 years of experience in heavy equipment, banking, real estate and other industries. The company is one of the largest shareholders of the Bank of Tampa (Florida) and CenterState Banks (Florida).

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

HIGHLIGHTS

Page 35

Samples taken from Arafat corpse for poison tests READ MORE ON PAGE 38

Egyptians protest after draft constitution raced through CAIRO - Thousands of Egyptians protested against President Mohamed Mursi on Friday after an Islamist-led assembly raced through approval of a new constitution in a bid to end a crisis over the Islamist leader's newly expanded powers.

"The people want to bring down the regime," they chanted in Tahrir Square, echoing the chants that rang out in the same place less than two years ago and brought down Hosni Mubarak.

Mursi said the decree halting court challenges to his decisions, which sparked eight days of protests and violence by Egyptians calling him a new dictator, was "for an exceptional stage" and aimed to speed up the democratic transition.

"It will end as soon as the people vote on a constitution," he told state television while the constituent assembly was still voting on the draft, which the Islamists say reflects Egypt's new freedoms. "There is no place for dictatorship."

The opposition cried foul. Liberals,

leftists, Christians, more moderate Muslims and others had withdrawn from the assembly, saying their voices were not being heard.

Thousands packed Tahrir and hit the streets in Alexandria and cities on the Suez Canal, in the Nile Delta and south of Cairo, responding to opposition calls for a big turnout.

The disparate opposition which has struggled to compete with well-organised Islamists has been drawn together and reinvigorated by the crisis. Tens of thousands had also protested on Tuesday, showing the breadth of public anger.

But Islamists have a potent political machine and the United States has looked on warily at the rising power of a group they once kept at arms length now ruling a nation that has a peace treaty with Israel and is at the heart of the Arab Spring.

Protesters said they would push for a 'no' vote in a referendum, which could happen as early as mid-December. If approved, it would immediately cancel

the president's decree.

"We fundamentally reject the referendum and constituent assembly because the assembly does not represent all sections of society," said Sayed elErian, 43, a protester in Tahrir and member of a party set up by opposition figure Mohamed ElBaradei.

"Leave, leave," some chanted, another anti-Mubarak slogan.

In the Cairo mosque where Mursi said Friday prayers, some opponents chanted against him but backers quickly surrounded him shouting in support, journalists and a security source said.

Thousands of Mursi supporters also turned out in Alexandria.

The plebiscite on the constitution is a gamble based on the Islamists' belief they can mobilise voters again after winning all the elections since Mubarak was overthrown in February 2011.

Despite the big numbers opposed to him, Mursi can count on backing from the disciplined Brotherhood and Islamist

allies, as well as many Egyptians who are simply exhausted by the turmoil.

"He just wants us to move on and not waste time in conflicts," said 33-year-old Cairo shopowner Abdel Nasser Marie.

"Give the man a chance and Egypt a break," he said.

But Mursi needs the cooperation of judges to oversee the vote, though many were angered by Mursi's decree that they said undermined the judiciary. Some judges have gone on strike.

The assembly concluded the vote after a 19-hour session, quicker than many expected, approving all 234 articles covering presidential powers, the status of Islam, the military's role and rights of citizens.

In one historic change, the president was limited to eight years in office after Mubarak served for 30 years. It introduced a degree of civilian oversight over the military - though not enough for critics.

AMBERGRIS CAY SERVICES LTD. (IN RECEIVERSHIP) SHORT TERM EMPLOYMENT POSITION

Ambergris Cay Services Ltd. (In Receivership) is seeking to fill a temporary post on Ambergris Cay for the period 18th December 2012 to 6th January 2013. The available position is for a

RESTAURANT HOST/MAITRE'D.

JOB SUMMARY: Work alongside with the Lead Chef and Sous Chef to organize and direct the activities of all the Food and Beverage department of the restaurant facility on Ambergris Cay to ensure an exceptional level of customer service and satisfaction.

Providing exemplary food and beverage service to visitors to the Cay over the Christmas and New Year period. This very demanding job requires high skill levels, assisting in monitoring of all Restaurant front house activities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1. Supervising of the waiting staff, welcoming guests and assigning them to tables, taking reservations, and ensuring that guests are satisfied.

2. Assist in presentation of all meals to guests using the restaurant facility on Ambergris Cay. 3. Delivery of outstanding services to a professional standard.

4. Excellent knowledge of a wide variety of local and international cuisines.

5. Assist in all other duties as required by the Lead Chef & or Sous Chef.

6. Must be able to work irregular hours, to include nights, weekends, and holidays.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND QUALIFICATIONS: 1. 5 years relevant experience operating in a high quality environment, providing a fine-dining experience in an international environment.

2. International experience of working on special event arrangements; 3. Excellent communication skills and a pleasant, professional demeanor.

4. A resourceful personality.

5. Must work and reside on Ambergris Cay for the indicated period.

6. Excellent references are essential Salary: Commensurate with experience.

Closing date for applications: Tuesday, 10th December, 2012.

Applications must be in writing addressed to: Ambergris Cay Services Ltd. (In Receivership) 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 36

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

WORLD NEWS

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

Samples taken from Arafat corpse for poison tests Forensic experts took samples from Yasser Arafat's uncovered corpse in the West Bank on Tuesday, trying to determine if he was murdered by Israeli agents using the hard-to-trace radioactive poison, Polonium.

Palestinians witnessed the funeral of their hero and longtime leader eight years ago, but conspiracy theories surrounding his death have never been laid to rest.

Many are convinced their icon was the victim of a cowardly assassination, and may stay convinced whatever the outcome of this autopsy. But some in the city of Ramallah where he lies deplored the uncovering of his body on Tuesday.

"This is wrong. After all this time, today they suddenly want to find out the truth?" said construction worker Ahmad Yousef, 31. "They should have done it eight years ago," he said.

Arafat's body was uncovered in its grave and samples were removed without having to lift the corpse from the ground. As a result, the planned reburial ceremony with full military honors was called off.

The tomb was resealed in hours and wreaths were placed by Palestinian leaders including Prime Minister Salam Fayyad.

"The state of the body was exactly what you would expect to find for someone who has been

buried for eight years. There was nothing out of the ordinary," Health Minister Hani Abdeen told a news conference.

French magistrates in August opened a murder inquiry into Arafat's death in Paris in 2004 after a Swiss institute said it had discovered high levels of polonium on clothing of his which was supplied by his widow, Suha, for a television documentary.

The head of the Palestinian investigation committee, Tawfiq Tirawi said the forensic procedure went smoothly. A Palestinian medical team took samples and gave them to each of the Swiss, French and Russian teams.

"We need proof in order to find those who are behind this assassination and take it to the ICC (International Criminal Court)," he said. "When we have proof, we will go to the ICC for it to be our first case to try those whose policy is assassinations."

Jordanian doctor Abdullah al Bashir, head of the Palestinian medical committee, said about 20 samples were taken and analysis would take at least three months.

"In order to do these analyses, to check, cross-check and double crosscheck, it will take several months and I don't think we'll have anything tangible available before March or April next year," said Darcy Christen,

AMBERGRIS CAY SERVICES LTD. (IN RECEIVERSHIP) SHORT TERM EMPLOYMENT POSITION

Ambergris Cay Services Ltd. (In Receivership) is seeking to fill a temporary post on Ambergris Cay for the period 18th December 2012 to 6th January 2013. The available position is for a RESTAURANT HOST/MAITRE'D JOB SUMMARY: Work alongside with the Lead Chef and Sous Chef to organize and direct the activities of all the Food and Beverage department of the restaurant facility on Ambergris Cay to ensure an exceptional level of customer service and satisfaction. Providing exemplary food and beverage service to visitors to the Cay over the Christmas and New Year period. This very demanding job requires high skill levels, assisting in monitoring of all Restaurant front house activities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1. Supervising of the waiting staff, welcoming guests and assigning them to tables, taking reservations, and ensuring that guests are satisfied.

2. Assist in presentation of all meals to guests using the restaurant facility on Ambergris Cay. 3. Delivery of outstanding services to a professional standard.

4. Excellent knowledge of a wide variety of local and international cuisines.

5. Assist in all other duties as required by the Lead Chef & or Sous Chef.

6. Must be able to work irregular hours, to include nights, weekends, and holidays.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND QUALIFICATIONS: 1. 5 years relevant experience operating in a high quality environment, providing a fine-dining experience in an international environment.

2. International experience of working on special event arrangements; 3. Excellent communication skills and a pleasant, professional demeanor.

4. A resourceful personality.

5. Must work and reside on Ambergris Cay for the indicated period.

6. Excellent references are essential Salary: Commensurate with experience.

Closing date for applications: Tuesday, 10th December, 2012.

Applications must be in writing addressed to: Ambergris Cay Services Ltd. (In Receivership) 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.

spokesman for Lausanne University Hospital in Switzerland that carried out the original tests on Arafat's clothes.

Arafat was always a freedom fighter to Palestinians but a terrorist to Israelis first, and a partner for peace only later. He led the bid for a Palestinian state through years of war and peacemaking, then died in a French hospital aged 75 after a short, mysterious illness.

No autopsy was carried out at the time, at the request of Suha, and French doctors who treated him said they were unable to determine the cause of death.

But allegations of foul play surfaced immediately, and many Palestinians pointed the finger at Israel, which confined Arafat to his West Bank headquarters in Ramallah for the final two and a half years of his life after a Palestinian uprising erupted.

Israel denies murdering him. Its leader at the time, Ariel Sharon, now lies in a coma from which he is expected never to awake. Israel invited the Palestinian leadership to release all Arafat's medical records, which were never made public following his death and still have not been opened.

Polonium, apparently ingested with food, was found to have caused the death of former Russian spy

Yasser Arafat

Alexander Litvinenko in London in 2006. But some experts have questioned whether Arafat could have died in this way, pointing to a brief recovery during his illness that they said was not consistent with radioactive poisoning. They also noted he did not lose all his hair.

Eight years is considered the limit to detect any traces of the fastdecaying polonium and Lausanne hospital questioned in August if it would be worth seeking any samples, if access to Arafat's body was delayed as late as "October or November."

Not all of Arafat's family agreed to the exhumation.

Arafat's widow watched her husband's uncovering on television from her house in Malta.

"This will bring closure, we will know the truth about why he died. I owe this answer to the Palestinian people, to the new generation, and to his daughter," a tearful Suha told timesofmalta.com.

Palestinians win implicit UN recognition of sovereign state The 193-nation U.N. General Assembly on Thursday overwhelmingly approved the de facto recognition of a sovereign Palestinian state after Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called on the world body to issue its long overdue "birth certificate."

There were 138 votes in favor, nine against and 41 abstentions. Three countries did not take part in the vote to upgrade the Palestinian Authority's observer status at the United Nations to "non-member state" from "entity."

The assembly approved the upgrade despite threats by the United States and Israel to punish the Palestinians by withholding funds for the West Bank government. U.N. envoys said Israel might avoid harsh retaliation as long as the Palestinians did not seek to join the International Criminal Court.

The much-anticipated vote came after Abbas denounced Israel for its "aggressive policies and the perpetration of war crimes" from the U.N. podium, remarks that elicited a furious response from the Jewish state.

"Sixty-five years ago on this day, the United Nations General Assembly adopted resolution 181, which partitioned the land of historic Palestine into two states and became the birth certificate for Israel," Abbas told the 193-nation assembly after receiving a standing ovation.

"The General Assembly is called upon today to issue a birth certificate of the reality of the State of Palestine," he said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded quickly, condemning Abbas' critique of Israel as "hostile and poisonous," and full of "false propaganda."

"These are not the words of a man who wants peace," Netanyahu also said in a statement released by his office in Israel.

At least 17 European nations voted in favor of the Palestinian resolution, including Austria, France, Italy, Norway and Spain. Abbas had focused his lobbying efforts on Europe, which supplies much of the aid the Palestinian Authority relies on. Britain, Germany and others chose to abstain.

The Czech Republic was unique in Europe, joining the United States, Israel, Canada, Panama and tiny Pacific Island states likes Nauru, Palau and Micronesia in voting against the move.

After the vote, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice called for the immediate resumption of peace talks.

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WORLD NEWS

Sandy delivers heavy blow to US economy WASHINGTON — Superstorm Sandy packed a bigger economic punch than most people had thought.

In its sweep through the Northeast, the storm halted sales at major retailers at the start of the crucial holiday shopping season, closed factories and slowed home sales in one of the most densely populated areas of the country.

On Thursday, for example, Kohl's, Target and Macy's blamed the storm for weak sales in November. Macy's and Nordstrom Inc. reported their first monthly sales drop since late 2009, when the U.S. economy was just emerging from the Great Recession.

And the government said this week that new-home sales plunged 32 percent in the Northeast last month and nearly 12 percent in the South. By contrast, sales surged nearly 63 percent in the Midwest and nearly 9 percent in the West.

Sandy is being blamed for about $62 billion in damage and other losses in the U.S., most of it in New York and New Jersey. It's the second-costliest storm in U.S. history after Hurricane Katrina, which caused $128 billion in damage in inflation-adjusted dollars.

New York is seeking $42 billion in federal aid, including about $9 billion for projects to head off damage in future storms. New Jersey is seeking nearly $37 billion in aid, including $7.4 billion for future projects.

Still, reports this week showed that the economic damage was confined mainly to the Northeast. In other parts of the country, the economy picked up in early November, when many New Yorkers were still without power.

And next year, rebuilding efforts in the Northeast could help jump-start the

the production process," said Joel Prakken, senior economist at Macroeconomic Advisers. "If you don't have electric power and transportation, you can't do a lot of things."

The lingering damage from the storm is weighing on the economy at a time of great uncertainty caused by the approaching "fiscal cliff." That's the name for automatic tax increases and spending cuts that will take effect without a federal budget agreement.

Most economists predict economic growth will slow to an annual rate below 2 percent in the OctoberDecember quarter. And some say the rate will likely be closer to a meager 1 percent. Prakken said the storm could end up lowering the growth rate by a half percentage point.

Sandy is being blamed for about $62 billion in damage and other losses in the U.S., most of it in New But by next year, Prakken said York and New Jersey. cleanup and rebuilding will start to add broader U.S. economy. That's especially benefits rose to an 18-month high in the to U.S. economic growth.

Many analysts say the region is true if Congress and the White House first week of November, driven by a poised to rebound quickly. Economists reach a budget deal that prevents sharp surge in applications in New York, New at the New York Federal Reserve Bank tax increases and spending cuts from Jersey, Pennsylvania and Connecticut. said Thursday that they expect the taking effect in January.

Such applications have fallen economy in the New York region to be Homes must be rebuilt, cars need to sharply since. But the increase earlier back on track by early 2013. Recovery be replaced and many people are likely this month will likely depress job in hard-hit New York communities like to step up spending once the storm's growth for November. Many Long Beach and the Rockaways will impact starts to fade. All that would economists predict that net job growth help accelerate growth. for November will range between take longer, though.

In the first three months of 2013, The U.S. economy grew at a 25,000 and 75,000 — well below the the economy's growth could rebound to moderate 2.7 percent annual rate from 171,000 jobs added in October. a rate of 2.5 percent, said Nigel Gault, July through September, the A Federal Reserve survey released chief U.S. economist for IHS Global government said Thursday. Weaker Wednesday said economic activity in Insight.

Gault predicts a 0.4 percentage growth is predicted for the October- October and early November slowed point boost from the rebuilding and December quarter. from the previous six-week period in other factors related to Sandy.

Sandy shut down businesses from three of its banking districts covering "We think that growth will improve North Carolina to Maine and cut off territory from Philadelphia to Maine. as we go through 2013, but that is power to 8 million homes in 10 states. That contrasted with the Fed's nine contingent on us not messing things up Many people could not go to work and other banking districts, which all by going over the fiscal cliff," Gault weren't paid for weeks. reported improvement in growth. said.

Applications for unemployment "The storm caused bottlenecks in

RIM preps developers for BlackBerry 10 QWERTY smartphone IDG News Service - Research In Motion has introduced the BlackBerry Dev Alpha C, a smartphone developers can use to test their applications and get ready for the launch of the BlackBerry 10 QWERTY device next year. The company also said developers will be able to trade their Alpha devices for a fully functional limited edition BlackBerry 10 smartphone.

Step-by-step, RIM is getting developers ready for the Jan. 30 launch of BlackBerry 10, when the company will introduce one all-touch smartphone and one more traditional model with a QWERTY keyboard.

RIM has already distributed 7,500 all-touch testing devices to developers; its latest move aims to ensure that applications can run on the QWERTY smartphone as well, the company said RIM isn't providing any technical details on the BlackBerry Dev Alpha C, but does detail what developers have to do to get one.

The company is making a limited number of phones, and they will be reserved on a priority list for developers who have demonstrated that they are building at least two apps for BlackBerry 10.

Developers' rankings on the list are based on a point scheme, where developers get 50 points for ported Android applications; 250 points for native, WebWorks and Adobe Air applications; and 1500 points for applications certified using the Built For BlackBerry program, according to the blog post.

Developers who already have an Alpha all-touch device or are a BlackBerry Elite member will start with 200 points.

Carla Bruni supports France's gay marriage plan in opposition to her husband, Sarkozy PARIS - France's former first lady Carla Bruni says she disagrees with her conservative husband Nicolas Sarkozy and supports a plan to allow gay marriage and adoption.

In an interview with the French edition of Vogue for its December issue, the 44-year-old former supermodel and singer said: "I'm rather in favour because I have a lot of friends — men and women — who are in this situation and I see nothing unstable or perverse in families with gay parents."

France's former first lady Carla Bruni France's Socialists are pushing a bill that could see gay marriage legalized early next year, defying criticism from religious leaders and Sarkozy's own UMP party.

Bruni says, "my husband is opposed for reasons linked to his political vocation, because he sees people as groups of thousands rather than people we know personally."

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TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

HIGHLIGHTS

Greek debt to be reduced READ MORE ON NEXT PAGE

US economic growth rate revised up to 2.7% The US economy grew at an annualised rate of 2.7% in the third quarter of the year, revised data has suggested.

The figure is significantly higher than the 2% initial estimate that the Commerce Department released just before the presidential election.

Much of the growth was due to companies rebuilding their inventories, and is not expected to be sustained.

The first estimate itself had beaten analysts' expectations, and fuelled the suspicions of some Republicans.

The growth rate for the second quarter was confirmed at 1.3%.

The revised data confirmed that a 9.5% jump in spending by the federal government during the quarter compared with a 0.2% decline the previous quarter - played an important role in the pick-up in growth.

What the first estimate had failed to pick up was the scale of restocking by private-sector businesses.

This inventory build-up effect which typically provides a temporary boost to economic activity early on in the recovery from a recession - added 0.77 percentage points to the pick-up in the overall growth rate in the third quarter, the Commerce Department said.

Other factors that boosted growth included the continued rise in consumer spending, stronger exports, and a slight rebound in homebuilding activity from historically low levels.

There were also some negative factors in the data, including further cuts in state and local government spending, and a fall in construction of commercial property.

Developments in the US housing market are being watched closely by economists, as they are likely to determine the durability of the recovery.

Normally, periods of recovery in the US economy are led by residential construction, as building firms quickly

get back to work on a backlog of projects as soon as the recession is over.

But this time round, the recession was in large part caused by the bursting of a housing market bubble, that left behind a glut of unsold homes, bankrupted many homebuilding firms, and saw the sharpest and most sustained collapse in homebuilding activity in recorded US history.

Further evidence that the housing market may be on the mend was provided by the National Association of Realtors on Thursday.

Its index of pending home sales which tracks sales that have been agreed but not completed, and provides an early indicator of market activity - rose 5.2% to 104.8 in October, its highest level in five years, despite subdued activity in the north east due to the impact of storm Sandy.

Some Republicans had expressed incredulity at a string of unexpectedly

strong economic figures released in October, in the run-up to the presidential elections.

The initial growth estimate followed jobs figures that showed the unemployment rate falling in September from 8.1% to 7.8% - its lowest rate since January 2009, and well below market expectations.

The positive jobs data came shortly after Mr Obama put in a poor performance during the first of the three presidential debates, and prompted some Republican supporters to call foul.

However, the latest growth estimate strengthens the evidence that the US economy genuinely enjoyed a rebound over the summer.

Meanwhile, weekly data on the number of people claiming unemployment benefits, also released on Thursday, added to the picture of recovery.

The number of claimants fell 23,000 to a seasonally adjusted 393,000 - the second such fall in as many weeks, suggesting that a sharp run-up in the number of claimants in parts of the US struck by storm Sandy four weeks ago may prove to be temporary.

The claimant count had been averaging about 375,000 before the storm struck, and peaked at 451,000.

GOP rejects cli oer from Obama President Barack Obama made an opening bid in budget talks with Republicans that calls for a $1.6 trillion tax increase, a $50 billion economic-stimulus program and new power to raise the federal debt limit without congressional approval, a broad set of demands Republicans viewed as a step back in talks to avoid looming tax increases and spending cuts. The proposal, offered by Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner as he made a round of meetings with congressional leaders in the Capitol Thursday, calls for increasing tax rates on incomes over $250,000, a one-year postponement of looming spending cuts in defense and domestic programs, and some $400 billion in savings over 10 years from Medicare and other entitlement programs.

The details of the proposal were described by congressional GOP officials. Earlier in the day, after GOP leaders met with Mr. Geithner, they made plain they didn't like what they heard.

"No substantive progress has been made in the talks between the White House and the House over the last two weeks," said House Speaker John Boehner (R., Ohio), who also spoke to Mr. Obama on the telephone

US politicians have been negotiating furiously to try to resolve the fiscal cliff

Wednesday night.

The administration had taken a "step backward, moving away from consensus and significantly closer to the cliff, delaying again the real, balanced solution that this crisis requires," Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R., Ky.) said in a written statement released by his office.

The White House offer in some sense amounts to a formal start of the negotiations, which could take many twists and turns before any possible deal is consummated. The White

House didn't have an immediate comment.

Democratic and Republican aides have a good sense of what concessions they are willing to offer, but neither wants to go first for fear of losing leverage. Republicans have said they won't negotiate on taxes until the White House steps forward with concrete ideas for addressing entitlement spending. The White House won't talk about entitlements until the GOP bends on taxes.

Despite its formal offer, the White House has signaled it wouldn't insist

tax rates on upper-income Americans rise to Clinton-era peaks as part of a deficit-reduction deal.

Earlier Thursday, Democrats said they were confident an agreement could be reached by Christmas. The complex negotiations are designed to avert the cliff—the combination of tax increases and spending cuts that are scheduled to kick in at the start of the new year if Congress and the White House fail to intervene.

Mr. Boehner's tone was a change from earlier this week when he said he was optimistic a compromise could be reached. While he said conversations with the president and Mr. Geithner were direct and frank, he called on Democrats to offer specific spending cuts and changes to entitlement programs such as Medicare and Medicaid they would put on the table toward a potential deal.

"All eyes are on the White House, the country doesn't need a victory lap, it needs leadership," Mr. Boehner said at a news conference in the Capitol.

The $400 billion from entitlement savings, the same number contained in Mr. Obama's 2013 budget proposal, is seen by Republicans as being well off the mark.

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BUSINESS & TEchNology

Eurozone and IMF reach deal to reduce Greek debt BRUSSELS — The 17 European Union nations that use the euro have struck an agreement with the International Monetary Fund on a program to reduce Greek debt and put Athens on the way to get the next installment of its much-needed bailout loans.

The first disbursement is set to take place December 13, said JeanClaude Juncker, head of the eurogroup of finance ministers, after Tuesday's decision.

Mario Draghi, President of the European Central Bank, said markets should pay heed. "It will certainly reduce the uncertainty and strengthen confidence in Europe and in Greece."

This was the third time in the last two weeks that finance ministers from the eurozone had tried to hammer out a deal on the next installment of bailout money — some €44.6 billion ($57.8 billion).

In Athens, Prime Minister Antonis Samaras welcomed it as a great victory. "As Greeks, we fought together. And tomorrow a new day begins for all Greeks."

And the EU lauded all Greeks for holding their country back from the brink.

"We strongly believe in the Greek capacity to recover. The Greek people are courageous people. They are

International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Christine Lagarde (R), Luxembourg's Prime Minister and Eurogroup chairman Jean-Claude Juncker (L) and European Economic and Monetary Affairs Commissioner Olli Rehn address a joint news conference after an euro zone finance ministers meeting in Brussels on Tuesday.

willing to bring their country back on the path of growth," Juncker said.

The so-called troika of the European Central Bank, IMF and the European Commission, which is the 27-country EU's executive arm, have twice agreed to bail out Greece, pledging a total of €240 billion ($310 billion) in rescue loans — of which the country has received about €150 billion ($195 billion) so far. In return

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for its bailout loans, Greece has had to impose several rounds of austerity measures and submit its economy to scrutiny.

Greece is predicted to enter its sixth year of recession shortly and has a quarter of its workforce out of a job, and there had been fears it might be forced to drop out of the eurozone, destabilizing other countries in the process.

The main aim of the bailout program is to right Greece's economy and get it to a point where it can independently raise money on the debt

markets. It has been clear for months that the country is far from achieving that goal. The talks have centered on trying to get Greece back on the path to sustainability by reaching an agreement on how the country's debt load can be reduced.

Juncker said the agreement includes: — A plan to reduce Greece's debt level to 124 percent of its gross domestic product by 2020 and below 110 percent by 2022. The IMF had originally insisted on a debt-to-GDP ratio of 120 percent by 2020.

—A cut of 100 basis points on the interest rate charged to Greece by other eurozone member states — excluding those that are also receiving bailouts.

—A 15-year extension of the maturities of loans from other countries and the eurozone's bailout fund, the European Financial Stability Facility, and a deferral of interest payments by Greece on EFSF loans by 10 years.

"This is not just about money," Juncker said. "It is the promise of a better future for the Greek people and for the euro area as a whole."

The head of the IMF, Christine Lagarde, also said the agreement was significant.

"We wanted to make sure that Greece was back on track," Lagarde said. "If you put it all together it is a significant amount."

Greece will get €34.4 billion ($40.84 billion) straight away and the rest in separate installments in January, February and March.

The political agreement reached Tuesday will have to be submitted to parliaments in some countries. After that, the finance ministers plan to hold another meeting, either in person or by telephone, to give final approval to the disbursement.

THE GRAND TURK INN IS HIRING AN ASSISTANT MANAGER REPORTING DIRECTLY TO THE OWNER TO RUN THE LITTLE HUT.

Experience/Education/Responsibilities: At least 6 years’ experience managing a customer restaurant At least 5 years’ supervision experience, of teams of employees.

At least 3 years’ experience in event planning, management and banquet preparation.

Responsible for running the Little Hut Restaurant, accounting, sales, cooking, menu planning, cleaning, purchasing and security. Experience in managing, planning and organizing of special functions including wedding, private parties Responsible for site maintenance and landscaping.

Must display a high level of energy, have an entrepreneurial spirit, be motivational, effective in providing exceptional customer service and ability to run an operation on it own. Salary $18,000 per annum.

Please submit resumes to the Grand Turk Inn – grandturkinn@gmail.com

North Caicos Contracting Ltd seeks

-1 Industrial Equipment Mechanic/Driver With minimum 3 years experience and references Salary $12.00 per Hour

-1 Labourer Salary $7.00 Contact during regular Office Hours 946 7437 or Email CV & Ref to: ncc@tciway.tc

Page 40

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

LOCAL NEWS

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

The TCICA T20 Night Match a major success

Spectators enjoying the match.

Team ‘B’

By Michael Pereira

A fine all round performance by Earl Henry enabled team B to beat team ‘A’ in the T20 cricket match that was played under flood lights on Friday 23rd of November 2012 at the Meridian Field in Grace Bay. The match started at 7:15pm with team ‘B’ Captain Ancell Williams winning the toss and elected to bat and chalk up 142 runs for five wickets from 20 overs

Top scorers were Earl Henry with an unbeaten 68 runs which was decorated with 9x4 1x6 and Jitender Ganglani contributing 29 runs 4x4.

Bowling for Team ‘A’ Robert Johnson, Winick Caleb and Damian St Ange taking one wicket a piece.

When team ‘A’ batted they reached 108 runs from 12.3 overs. Top scorers were Winick Caleb

with 24 runs 4x4 and Vikram John also contributed 24 runs 4x. Bowling for team ‘B’ Earl Henry captured 4 wickets for 32 runs from 3.4 overs and Ancell Williams claimed two wickets for 15 runs from 3 overs.

The TCICA would like to express their profound thanks to the TCI Rugby Association for the use of the field and their warm hospitality.

TCIFA prepare for International Beach soccer

In preparation for the TCIFA’s first ever Beach Soccer Festival next month against visiting teams from the Bahamas and Minnesota, players from the association’s girls youth academy managed to get in a training session and practice game last weekend on the newly installed Beach Soccer pitch at the TCIFA facility.

Although not fully completed, the pitch has now been laid so that the players can get in some last minute preparation before the end of year tournament.

Around 20 players took part in the morning session before returning to compete in an entertaining friendly game. In the first game on the new surface a U16 team beat a TCI Select team by a 5-2 margin. Kadine Delphin opened the scoring for the U16 Team before Sarah Cenary dribbled past the keeper to level the game after the first period.

However, 3 goals in the second period saw the u16 team sail to a 4-1 lead. Crystal stirling scored twice and Shinaydine Pluviose also found the back of the net. The final period was a equally balanced as Marie Dorellus scored for

the Select Team before Monae Gooden added one more goal for the U16 Team.

Both teams enjoyed the experience and found the playing surface ideal for playing Beach Soccer as the sand was not as soft as they are used to when playing their league games on Grace Bay Beach. Star forward Yarielny De la Cruz said “the sand is perfect for us to show off our Beach Soccer skills, but as the pitch is bigger than what we normally play on we will need to work hard on our fitness levels”.

Technical Director Matthew Green was delighted that the players have finally been given a chance to play on a full sized Beach Soccer pitch. “We have not had the best preparation for the tournament as normally we would be training for an event like this for several months, so our players will be going into these games with very little time together.

Many of the young players have exams to prepare for and the older players have work commitments but I am confident that our girls will give it their best shot when they play next month. This event will be a good way of judging how we can compete in this form of the sport

Action from Beach Soccer league

at international level. The Bahamas team have been playing this sport non-stop for a while now and will be keen to perform well against their neighbours, so the games should be very exciting”.

The festival will run from the 14th-16th December. Please contact the TCIFA on 941 5532 / 231 1860 if you are interested in attending the event or participating in any of the TCIFA programmes.

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 41

LOCAL SPORTS LOCAL NEWS

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

TAG Rugby Championships

The AVIS National Inter-schools TAG Rugby Championships were held this last Saturday Nov 17th at Meridian Field. They were a great success and the TCIRFU would like to extend many thanks to everyone for coming down and participating in or supporting the inter-school championships.

There were over 600 players and supporters attending the event throughout the course of the day and it shows that rugby is gaining more and more momentum, especially in the schools. Thanks too to all the teachers who are actively pushing the sport of rugby in the schools. The competition was held across 4 age groups with both boys and girls competing together and the TCIRFU, would like to extend congratulations to the winners of the respective grades: Under 8: Enid Capron Under 11: Ianthe Pratt Under 14: British West Indies Collegiate Under 17: Clement Howell The TAG Champs were followed by a game of Sevens Rugby between the U19’s from Provo and the U19’s from North Caicos, narrowly won by Provo. The TCIRFU’s Rugby Development Officer,

Enid Capron (Under 8 champs) with their PE teacher Darian Forbes, and TCIRFU Coaches Craig James, Augustine Modeste and Eion O’Sullivan

Jamie Tait, had this to say after the event. “There was a great atmosphere down at the field and I'd like to thank those who stepped up to referee, assist with teams, or helped out in any way.

The day went smoothly and we were even

treated to an exciting match of full contact seven a side rugby between Providenciales and North Caicos, who showed themselves to be full of potential in running the established Provo players close.”

Police arrest KB Homes and Jaguars maul Quality kings Jaguars came out on top

The man of the match was Ira Baptiste

The TCICA T20 cricket competition continued on Saturday 24th November at the Down Town Ball Park with the Police recorded a win against KB Homes. KB Homes won the toss and asked Police take first strike who then posted a massive 233 runs for 3 wickets from 20 overs.

Ira Baptiste plunder the bowling with boundary filled 79 runs which was punctuated 13x4 6x4 and Kavin Mars scoring 53 runs 8x4 1x6.

Bowling for KB homes Paul Mackenzie, Paul Slattery and Dax Bruton taking one wicket each

In reply, KB Homes put up a grand fight but failed at the end and reach 218 runs for six wicket 20 overs. Gareth Butler with 62 runs 5x4 3x6 and Vikram John also with 62 run 9x4 1x6 were principal contributors and Craig James made 20 runs Bowling for the Police Lyndon Tyson, Ira Baptiste and Garvin Bruno had one wicket each The man of the match was Ira Baptiste Meanwhile on Sunday 25th November 2012 at same venue Jaguars Maul the Quality Kings after

winning the toss Quality Kings decided to bat and were dismissed for a meager 107 runs from 17.2 with Earl Henry top scoring with 32 runs and Ian Heath scoring 20 runs Bowling for Jaguars Mark Henry, Winick Caleb and Terrence Thomas took two wickets each In reply, Jaguars reach 108 runs from 11.5 overs with Terrence Thomas top scoring with 38 runs and Nuwan Bodihinayake adding 31 runs Bowling for Quality Kings Anish Thomas claimed two wickets for 34 runs from 3 overs The man of the match Terrence Thomas.

Provo Basketball League update

In game one of the Provo Basketball League played on November 22, South Caicos (Harbour Boys) defeated Predators 51-46. Harbour's Alvardo Parker scored 17 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 3 blocks and 51steals. K. Adams had 14 points. Predators Troy Saunders shot 17 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 5 steals. J. Clearveaux shot 13points.

In game two - Knights defeated North Caicos (Spartans) 58-42. Knights’ P. Sulvin scord 20 points, 4 reboundss,3 assists, 1 block, 2 steals. A. Gardiner shot 16 points. Spartan’s E. Williams shot 11points,

4 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal. L. Hall shot 8 pts.

In Game three, Flyers defeated Steelers 63 – 62.

Flyers Anthony Pratt scored 12 points, 52 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 block, 2 steals. J. Garland sank 10 points.

Steelers’ K. Missick shot 24 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assist, 3 steals. C. Henry shot 12 points.

In games played on November 23, Steelers defeated North Caicos (Spartans) 72– 56 in game one. Steelerss Cameron Henry scored 29 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists and 4 steals. L. Skippings shot 13 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 steals. S. Williams collected 9 rebounds. Spartans’ E. Williams

18points, 1 rebound, 1 assist. J. Harvey grabbed 9 rebounds.

In game two Knights defeated Cobras 60 - 45.

Knights’ A. Gardiner shot 19 points, 7 rebounds, 3 steals, 1 block. Cobras’ D. Campbell scored 8 points, 2 assists, 1 rebound.

In Game 3, Flyers defeated Customs 79 - 62.

Flyers R. Fulford scored 16 points, 2 rebounds, and 1 steal. A. Pratt had scored 11points. Customs’ B. Forbes registered 13points. H. Francis grabbed 5 rebounds.

Page 42

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

Vacancies exists for the following discipline. Suitably experienced and qualified Belongers are encouraged to apply:• SYSTEMS ENGINEER • IT ENGINEER • MEDICAL CODER • PORTER • PHARMACIST TECHNICIAN • REGISTERED NURSE • REGISTERED NURSE (MIDWIFE) • SENIOR MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIST • PATIENT ADMINISTRATION SUPERVISOR • GENERAL PRACTITIONER

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Administrative Assistant An Insurance Agency and Brokerage is seeking a dynamic, outgoing proactive person, with a background in Administration and Customer Service with a minimum of 4 years experience in General & Motor Insurance.

Job entails the processing of applications, policy documents, client renewals, supervision and assistance with claims. Secondary languages will be an asset along with any accounting knowledge or computer training with In-Visage or TAM Software Systems.

Kindly send resumes to: Human Resource Manager P.O. Box 355 Providenciales

• Pediatrician Only appropriate qualified persons should apply.

Preference will be given to qualified BOTC -Turks and Caicos Islands and persons with Belonger Status.

Please forward your CV to recruitment@interhealthcanada.tc

1 Labourer DEVEN WALKIN SEEKS

Salary $5.00 per hour Contact 241-5559

Come and join our winning team!!!

The Human Resources Department is looking for:

ASSISTANT HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER The Assistant Human Resources Manager assists the Human Resources Manager in promoting employee satisfaction, ensuring compliance with labor laws and maintaining the highest level of standards in the Resort.

He/ She is also responsible for planning, managing, controlling, and coordinating benefits, team member relations and discipline. They also assist in the development and formulation of policies, procedures and practices to support the operational needs of the Resort.

Skills Level of Education Bachelor degree in a relevant field

Essential requirements The individual we are looking for should possess the following skills and qualities:

- A strong understanding of labor and employment law - Minimum of 5 years of Human Resources experience - Must have strong decision making skills - Strong oral and written communication skills - Ability to work effectively in a team environment and take initiative - Excellent organizational skill - Ability to communicate at all levels The Administrative Department is looking for:

ASSISTANT DEPARTURE LOUNGE/ARRIVAL MANAGER

Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages and Spa, the only 6 Diamond all inclusive property in the Caribbean is inviting applications from suitably qualified Turks and Caicos Islanders for the following vacant positions.

Applicants must have a clean police record and a good command of the English language both written and spoken. In addition candidates must be able to work nights, public holidays and week-ends. The Resort thanks everyone for their interest in advance and advises that only short listed applicants will be contacted for an interview.

The individual is responsible for all departures and arrivals of guests from the airport to the Resort. This includes welcoming / greeting of guests at the Airport and ensuring that the Transfers from the Airport go smoothly to the Resort. This aspect also includes the Departure Lounge process for all departing guests from the Resort to the Airport. Responsibilities also include All VIP Transfers and delegation and assignments to VIP Drivers on a daily basis and follow ups with VIP Transfers. A Team Player who is willing to take on new challenges in the workplace, share and learn from a diverse Team and excel in the Hospitality Industry.

Applicant must have a keen knowledge of the history and general knowledge of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Suitable applicants must possess: • At least three (3) years’ experience in working with Costumers Services and at least two (2) years in working within the Hospitability Industry.

• A High School Diploma and obtained a Diploma or Associates Degree in Hospitality Management.

• Three (3) references from an esteem establishment or a reference from previous workplace.

SECURITY MANAGER Interested applicants must possess:

Requirements: • Diploma / Degree in a relevant field.

• Minimum 3-5 years’ experience in the security.

• Good knowledge and understanding of Security & Safety regulations.

• Able to advise the team on Security & Safety provisions, development and systems.

• Strong leadership qualities with excellent

interpersonal and communication skills.

• Computer literate • Excellent health and clean working record.

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Interested applicants must possess: • Bachelor of Science in relevant field • 10 years Administrative experience • Confidential • Proficient in Word, Excel and Microsoft Outlook • Highly detailed orientated and well organized • An excellent communicator

The salary for the positions indicated above range from $23,000.00 to $40,000.00 per annum

Applications giving full details of qualifications and experience should be sent to: mmvaughn@grp.sandals.com or Fax to: 941-4870 Attn: M McClean-Vaughn The Human Resources Department Beaches Turks and Caicos P.O. Box 186 Lower Bight Road and

The Labour Commissioner Labour Department Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands

and should reach not later than December 14th 2012 Otherwise, please call for additional information tel # 649-946-8000 ext 4138

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

HIGHLIGHTS

Page 43

Ronaldo and Lionel Messi headline FIFA finalists READ ON PAGE 44

Ponting to retire after Perth Test As emotional as anyone has ever seen him, Ricky Ponting lost his customary composure when telling team-mates of his decision to retire from international cricket on the eve of the third Test against South Africa in Perth.

For so long the stony-faced embodiment of Australian cricket, Ponting and other members of the squad wept as they came to terms with the fact a Test career that began at the WACA ground in 1995 would end at the same ground 17 years later. "I tried to tell them a lot, but I didn't get much out," Ponting said. "As I said to the boys this morning, they've never seen me emotional, but I was this morning."

If the decision drew a previously unseen well of feeling from within Ponting, its reasons were coldly logical and team-oriented. After failing twice with the bat in Adelaide and thrice in this series, having given himself the best possible lead-in via domestic cricket Ponting concluded that he was no longer good enough to perform at the level he preferred. For so long Ponting's watchword had been consistency - now he spoke ruefully of "consistent failure".

Other considerations included choosing the best circumstances in which to allow his successor in the batting order to get started, a question Ponting had also pondered when handing over the captaincy to Clarke in 2011. As befitted a man whose proudest career achievement is to have played in more Test wins than any other cricketer, Ponting was also keen for the announcement to inspire, not overshadow, Australia's tilt at the world No. 1 ranking in this match.

Ricky Ponting

"It's a decision I thought long and hard about, put in long consideration about the decision, at the end of the day it was about my results and my output in this series so far," Ponting said. "It hasn't been to the level required for batsmen and players in the Australian team. My level of performance hasn't been good enough.

"I want to be a consistent performer, and if you look back over the last 12 or 18 months I haven't been able to perform consistently. I've had moments of really good stuff, and prolonged moments of cricket that's been below my expectations and below a par level for me, so there hasn't been one dismissal or one moment, it's just been in my own eyes reasonably consistent failure. That's why I believe the time is right now to be making this decision."

Following a poor start to the Test series with low scores in Brisbane and

Adelaide, Ponting said he was troubled by the "tentative" manner of his dismissals. In Adelaide he was bowled twice in the same match for only the second time in a career that began in 1995.

That double was the catalyst for a typically frank interview with his first Test captain Mark Taylor on Channel Nine on the fourth morning in Adelaide, in which Ponting said he was soon to be discussing his future with the selectors. Discussions about retirement commenced during the Test, though Ponting said he always retained the support of the selectors, and made the call himself.

"I believe so, there's been all sorts of things in the papers the last couple of days and I know certainly with my captain and my coach I couldn't have had any more support from those guys," Ponting said. "They've been the ones who've been most verbal about their support.

"This is not a decision that's been made by the selectors, this a decision that's been made by me, and I'd like to thank all those guys for the support they've given me over the last 12 months. There were probably moments when they thought long and hard about ending my career and I'm glad I've got the opportunity to finish this way and on my terms."

The effect of Ponting's retirement was writ large across the red eyes of the captain, Michael Clarke. In summing up the few days leading up to the announcement, Clarke became so teary that he recalled the welling up of emotion that accompanied Kim Hughes' exit as captain in 1984. While

Michael Vick fails imPACT test Quarterback Michael Vick still hasn't passed his imPACT concussion test and therefore hasn't been cleared to practice, the Philadelphia Eagles said Thursday. Vick took the test again on Wednesday and didn't pass.

Nick Foles will take the practice snaps Thursday and is likely to start his third straight game.

The Eagles, who have lost seven straight games, will try to avoid their longest losing streak in 44 years when they face the Cowboys on Sunday.

Foles has thrown for 542 yards with one touchdown and three interceptions in three games since replacing Vick during a 38-23 home loss to the Cowboys on Nov. 11.

Vick spent Tuesday night being sized for

a protective skull cap that he plans to wear under his helmet when he returns to play to safeguard against suffering another concussion.

At the urging of neurologist Dr. Dimi Barot, Vick met at his home with Unequal Technologies Corporation CEO Rob Vito to be measured for the new "dome'' device made of the company's Concussion Reduction Technology.

Vick had Unequal retro-fit his helmet with similar padding upon returning from a concussion in September 2011. The same company designed protective Kevlar devices that enabled Vick and Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo to play with serious rib injuries in recent seasons.

the reasons were entirely different, the feeling was equally strong - Clarke could not answer another question about his team-mate, friend and predecessor as captain.

"I didn't have a feeling it was coming," Clarke said. "Ricky spoke to me after the Adelaide Test match and made his decision I guess over the last few days. The boys are obviously hurting at the moment. He's been an amazing player for a long time. [Deep breath and starts to tear up]‌ and that'll do me for today. Sorry, I can't answer that."

Ponting will play out the domestic season for Tasmania and the Hobart Hurricanes in the BBL. He does not yet know what will be ahead of him beyond the summer, but gestured towards his wife Rianna and children when queried about what the future held.

"I've got a few months of cricket yet, which I am really looking forward to. I really enjoyed the start of this season playing cricket with Tasmania and back with some of my mates really I place I haven't spent a lot of time for near on the last 20 years. So I'll enjoy that for what it is, but this is my new team here," Ponting said, pointing to his family.

As for the question of his contribution to cricket, Ponting had a simple and affecting answer. While delivering it he came close to tears again, those his team-mates had shared a few hours before.

"I know I've given cricket my all," Ponting said. "It's been life for 20 years. Not much more I can give."

Mavs sign Derek Fisher Veteran point guard Derek Fisher is returning to the NBA after signing a deal with the Dallas Mavericks. The Mavericks are thin at point guard as Dominique Jones made just his third career start for the team Wednesday night against the Chicago Bulls because starter Darren Collison has a sprained right middle finger.

The position has been a bit of a concern for the Mavericks in the early going as Collison has struggled at times.

"Right now, the point guard position is a challenge for us," coach Rick Carlisle said Wednesday. "I think Derek can help us."

Fisher, 38, averaged 5.6 points and 2.7 assists in 63 games with the Los Angeles Lakers and Oklahoma City Thunder last season. He had a more expanded role in the Thunder's playoff run, averaging 6.3 points and 22 minutes per game. This will be his 17th season.

The Mavericks, who had 15 guaranteed contracts, released forward Troy Murphy to create a roster spot for Fisher.

Page 44

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

WORLD SPORTS

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

West Indies aiming for a whitewash Darren Sammy, the West Indies captain, is eyeing a whitewash in the forthcoming five-match ODI series against Bangladesh which will help the team improve its one-day rankings.

But like he had repeatedly said during the recently concluded Test series, beating the home side won't be easy.

"5-0 gives us five ranking points.

4-1 gives us one and 3-2 might lose us ranking points," Sammy said. "I will let the guys know of this but first we will look to win the series. If we play to our potential, it [5-0] is possible. We will take one thing at a time now, tomorrow is the first game of the fivematch series."

After the Dhaka Test, Sammy had said that they were able to push for a win because they took the Bangladesh challenge seriously. The situation got a little out of control in the second Test when Bangladesh put up a decent first innings total, thanks to No. 10 Abul Hasan's debut hundred, and the 184run tenth wicket partnership shared with Mahmudullah. West Indies rode out that challenge again, and dominated the rest of the game to win the series 2-0.

"Bangladesh keep coming back when you think they're down. In the last Test, the No. 8 and No. 10 put on

West Indies cut a dejected bunch after their last loss

a partnership in the first innings," he said. "We are not taking them for granted. But once we play to our full potential, we could be a very destructive force."

West Indies switched into the oneday mode with a massive win in the warm-up game against BCB XI on Wednesday. The highlight of that game, which could also be a forewarning for Bangladesh, was West Indies' total of 361 under the new fielding restrictions. Chris Gayle, who didn't play in that game, was the only

batsman without a big score in the Tests but Sammy believes it is a matter of time before he fires with the bat.

"Our batsmen took responsibility to score the bulk of the runs in the Test series. We have at least six guys coming in for the ODI series. They all had a go, and they scored a lot of runs in the practice match, so it is tough to select the team with such bench strength.

"Chris [Gayle] turns up anytime.

He is the best batsman in limited-overs cricket right now. He's the most

dangerous in any format. I am not worried about him. He has his routine, and has scored all over the world.

Good for us if he's due some runs, not for Bangladesh."

Sammy's captaincy and patience will be tested under the new rules of having just the four fielders outside the 30-yard circle for 35 overs during the match. He said that the umpires have assured of helping out the captains during this series if an extra man is stationed outside the circle by mistake, though he has already devised a plan to remember the new rule.

"I will just remember to keep midoff or mid-on up. I have studied it quite well and I think I have trained my brain to keep monitoring. We have enough senior players in the team to help me along, and the umpires said they'll look out for the odd fielder outside."

Sammy said that the new rule is going to put pressure on the fielding teams, especially on the spinners.

However, he said that it also presents an opportunity to cut the singles down.

"Teams were scoring 300-plus with five guys outside the circle. Now it is only four. I feel sorry for the spinners, they have to find an extra way to bowl and be economical. We have to find one person in the ring which could put more pressure on the batsmen, and no easy singles to get."

Dale Earnhardt Ronaldo and Lionel Messi headline FIFA finalists Jr. most popular LAS VEGAS -- Dale Earnhardt Jr. didn't win the championship he thought was possible midway through the 2012 Sprint Cup season, but that didn't impact his popularity. Earnhardt won NASCAR's NMPA Most Popular Driver Award for the 10th consecutive year on Thursday, tying Bill Elliott for the longest streak. He moved within six of Elliott for the alltime lead at 16.

"Aside from honesty, one of the qualities I admire the most in a person is loyalty,'' Earnhardt said after receiving the award at Dale Earnhardt Jr. the Myers Brothers Luncheon.

"Loyalty is a word I use quite often to describe our fans. This is a great example of loyalty.

"I'm completely humbled and honored to accept this.''

Earnhardt ended a 143-race losing streak in June with a victory at Michigan. He led the point standings for two weeks midway through the year and was top five in points for the first 25 weeks.

He finished 12th in points after having to miss two Chase races while recovering from a concussion -- his second in six weeks -- at Talladega Superspeedway. The other was suffered in a late-August test at Kansas Speedway.

Earnhardt still had one of his better seasons, finishing with 20 top-10s, one shy of his career record. He led 358 laps, 25 fewer than the three previous years combined.

The improvements from the previous season have him optimistic for 2013.

"I wish we were going to race on,'' Earnhardt said late in the season. "I'd just race on through to February and start back over again if it were up to me.

"I really enjoy being at the track and driving cars. It's been a good year, but this should be par for the course. It's been a good year, but we want to be a lot better than this. I'm not ready to stop trying to be better."

SAO PAULO -- Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Andres Iniesta are the finalists for FIFA's world player of the year award. They were picked from a list of 23 candidates for this year's Ballon d'Or, with Messi looking to become the first player to win the award four times.

The Argentina and Barcelona playmaker won the award the last three years. "I think they are perfect picks. There is no doubt these players are among the best," said former Brazil great Ronaldo, a threetime award winner. "Messi and Ronaldo are really the only ones with a chance of winning, that's how it's been recently."

The winner will be announced in Switzerland on Jan. 7. The only other players to have won the FIFA award three times are Ronaldo and former France great Zinedine Zidane.

The finalists for the women's world player award are five-time winner Marta and America duo Alex Morgan and Abby Wambach.

They led the United States to its third straight Olympic gold medal in London.

Wambach made the shortlist last year, finishing third in the voting.

"Women's football was at its best this year," FIFA President Sepp Blatter said, noting the record crowds attending the matches at the London Games.

Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque, former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola and Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho were in the running for the world coach of the year award. The women's coach of the year award nominees are France's Bruno Bini, Japan's Norio Sasaki and former U.S. coach Pia Sundhage, who led the team to the gold at the 2012 Games.

The Puskas Award for the best goal of

the year will be presented to Radamel Falcao, Neymar or Miroslav Stoch.

The 25-year-old Messi won his second Golden Boot award this year for scoring the most goals in Europe's domestic leagues last season. He has scored 82 goals this calendar year, putting him only three shy of Gerd Mueller's record.

Messi won last year's Ballon d'Or prize over Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored a team leading 46 goals last season for Real Madrid.

Cristiano Ronaldo -- the winner in 2008 -- was one of the six nominees from Real Madrid, along with Xabi Alonso, Karim Benzema, Iker Casillas, Mesut Oezil and Sergio Ramos. In addition to Messi and Iniesta, the 23-player list also included Barcelona players Xavi Hernandez, Gerard Pique and Sergio Busquets.

Iniesta finished second to Messi in the 2010 vote.

Seven Spain internationals made the 23-name list and all three in the shortlist play in the Spanish league.

"This shows how strong the football is in Spain, not only in the clubs but also the national team," FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke said. "We have a very strong (Spanish) football system in place."

Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli and Brazil forward Neymar were also in the running. Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney was the only English player on the list, while United teammate Robin van Persie also was a candidate after being the Premier League's leading scorer last season for Arsenal.

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LOCAL NEWS

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LOCAL NEWS

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

TURKS AND CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 1ST - DECEMBER 8TH, 2012

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