Page $1 1
VOLUME 8 No. 25
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
OSWALD SKIPPINGS SAYS HE
Website: www.suntci.com
Email: sun@suntci.com
Tel: 649-946-8542
Fax: 649-941-3281
www. twitter.com/suntci
CAN BEAT DEREK TAYLOR
Two former Chief Ministers vying for PDM leadership BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
Oswald Skippings is confident that he can beat the current leader of the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) Derek Taylor when the party holds its convention in the islandcapital of Grand Turk on June 29th and 30th. However, Taylor said he isn’t backing down from the fight and is equally sure that he can hold to the leadership post which he assumed less than a year ago. In an interview with The SUN, Skippings said his confidence about beating Taylor was based on the feedback that he was getting from the delegates, plus his ability to address the current social, economical and political issues. “I think I can beat him. The timing is right for my kind of leadership – strong, innovative with vision and proactive. I think my time has come for the challenges that we are now facing, not only with the British, but with the changes in the world economy. And this calls for innovative thinking and everything else that would put us in lockstep with the competition that is being presented in the world today.
ALEXANDRA RESORT IN RECEIVERSHIP CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
PAGE 7
PUBLIC OFFICIALS COULD BE JAILED OR FINED FOR NOT FILING PAGE 8
MIAMI HEAT BURY THE THUNDER, LEBRON GETS HIS RING
Miami Heat's Dwyane Wade (L), LeBron James (C) and Chris Bosh celebrate with the trophy after winning the championship in Game 5 of the NBA basketball finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Miami, Florida June 21, 2012.
TOURIST FALLS INTO THE HOLE PAGE 11
STOLEN TCI FERRY FOUND IN HAITI PAGE 12
Page 2
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
LOCAL NEWS
AND CAICOS SUN JUNETURKS 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
Two former Chief Ministers vying for PDM leadership CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
“So we have to change a lot of the ways we do business, and I am the person for that – with fresh ideas, with vision and creativity. I am the one with the vision that would embrace the youth and create the environment for them to find their niche in society and play their rightful roles,” Skippings said. Skippings believes that the odds are in his favour, pointing to support on the ground, which he said has surpassed his expectation. “There seems to be a lot of support for me from the branches and throughout the islands, and from persons who are not members of the NGC,” Skippings said. Asked as to why he was running against Taylor at this stage of the game, Skippings said that he had been bombarded with requests to take over the leadership of the party, especially from members of the NGC. “And my reply was, ‘I would take up that offer if they can demonstrate to me that the majority of the NGC members feel that way’. And I got that indication from the majority of the members, so I think it is my duty to answer to the call of my party and the people, otherwise, I would be failing in my responsibility as a leader,” Skippings argued. He said that some of persons who approached him to challenge Taylor for party leadership believed that the current PDM Leader was too chummy with the British, which he said was not working for them. “They seem to think that he is too easy on the British, and I would be the first to say that Derek is a man of integrity, a decent man and a man of sound reputation. So that is not the question at all, and I don’t think anybody thinks that it is. But with all the challenges that lie ahead, we need someone with a little more aggression and someone who is more proactive in dealing with the issues. And someone who is not afraid to address the problems,” he said. Added Skippings: “It is a normal thing to change leaders when they (people) think it is necessary. One leader maybe best suited for this particular era and another leader may be better suited for another era, depending on the economic circumstances, depending on the political circumstances or social
Oswald Skippings
circumstances. You now have social circumstance, political, and that includes the occupation by Mother Britain. Responding to whether or not his challenge to Taylor was seen as an indictment on the leader’s stewardship, Skippings replied: “No, but everyone that challenges anybody, some people would figure it as an indictment, but the majority of the people presently think it is a necessity. If we are to win the elections, we take it as a necessity, and I would gladly accept the outcome, whatever it is, at the convention and throw my support behind him if he turns out to be the leader. Skippings, who is an ordained pastor, said that in the event he is successfully at both the party and national polls, he would still be involved in the preaching ministry, while not necessarily be in charge of a flock. “I wouldn’t put the ministry on hold. I would not be directly responsible for a congregation. This (being a minister of the gospel while being head of government) would not affect my leadership in anyway, as a matter of fact, it think it helps my leadership because during my tenure as pastor, I was able to get some more leadership experience. “And more importantly, I was able to get closer to God than I have ever been. I would not be one of those persons who intend to separate church from state. For the most part, I think that the nation has turned away from God, and I think that needs to be restored. And with the help of all the spiritual leaders of this country, we will have spiritual as well as a political turnaround,” Skippings said. Skippings, who is in his late 50s, became the youngest Chief Minister of the Turks and Caicos Islands (at age 25) after the country’s first Chief
GOT U COVERED Is looking for
A Labourer
To work 6 days per week Salary $6.00 per hour Must be willing to work long hours Contact 946-5333 or 432-0021
Derek Taylor
Minister James Alexander George Smith (JAGS) McCartney died on May 9, 1980 at the age of 34. He became the youngest member of a Caribbean government ever when he was first elected to the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) legislature in 1976 at the age of 22. He later became the youngest leader of a Caribbean government ever when he became Chief Minister in 1980 at the age of 26. He was Chief Minister of the TCI between June and November 1980 and again between March 1988 and April 1991. Skippings retired from politics just prior to the 2007 elections and has since headed the Firm Foundations
Ministries International in Grand Turk. In his previous efforts to lead the PDM, he was defeated by Floyd Seymour and then by Doug Parnell. Taylor, who is also a former Chief Minister, is presently leader of the PDM, having defeated Doug Parnell last November. Responding to being challenged for the top position, especially at a time when elections are in the air, Taylor deflected the probe by indicating that the party’s constitution provided for such events. “It is unfortunate that after you had an election a short while ago, you are going into another one. But it is one of those things. The (party’s) constitution said that there should be a general meeting in June every year. So it would be up to the delegates to decide who they would choose. “The majority of people know what I stand for; I don’t make noise, but I have already proven myself. I have been the longest serving leader of any party in the Turks and Caicos Islands, and the longest serving chief minister; and the only chief minister that had been sworn-in three times in Turks and Caicos History. I represented the people well,” Taylor asserted.
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
Page 3
Page 4
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
Page 5
Page 6
EDITORIAL
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Elections in Turks and Caicos Islands; now what?! BY HAYDEN BOYCE PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Last week’s announcement of elections in the Turks and Caicos Islands, despite the vociferous clarion calls for return to self-rule over the past three years, appears to have caught both political parties in this British Overseas Territory flat-footed. Put differently, and by using a track-andfield analogy, the starter’s gun has gone off, but both the Progressive National Party (PNP) and the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) seem frightened and frozen in the starting blocks. In most other Caribbean and developed countries, the announcement of an election date would have met with a bang, and not a sputter, from political parties. Let me put it this way. The parties in the Turks and Caicos Islands have been waiting with bated breath for elections to be called. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and others joined in the chorus and in vehemently opposing the protracted delay in the unjustified and increasingly unpopular direct rule by the Brits. Despite a few broken promises by UK officials to call elections, it had to have been known, that it could only be a matter of time before elections were called. To be sure, the November election date was bandied around since earlier this year and would have surprised only those who were either out-of-touch or not paying particular attention to the political maneuverings of the UK Government and its TCI-based cohorts. Yet, almost a week after UK Minister Henry Bellingham came with his package of frozen news, the two political parties are running around like, as they would say in the Caribbean, headless chickens and scrambling to put basic systems in place. In these circumstances, one would have thought that by now, at least one issue-oriented political rally, no matter how small or poorly attended, would have been held by one or both of the political parties. This, unfortunately, was not to be. Instead, residents, the electorate and viewers of a Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) newscast, the many of whom would have been tracking developments here with keen interest, were served a fare of perfunctory rhetoric and vague platitudes. While this was happening, excited party executives huddled behind closed doors to discuss, in many cases for the first time, matters that should have long ago been dispensed with. There is a point beyond which routine pre-election rhetoric ceases to have validity, and precisely this stage has now been reached with respect to a number of obvious issues that are facing the Turks and Caicos Islands. It is known that both parties met privately with Mr. Bellingham and the Governor Ric Todd. Bellingham, whose pleasant tone and demeanour changed quite dramatically last Tuesday compared to when he came here last year, reminded me of the cat in George Orwell’s book, Animal Farm. The cat was seen one day sitting on a roof and talking to some birds that were just out of her reach. She was telling them that all animals were now friends and that any of the birds could feel free to come and perch on her paw! Did Bellingham neutralize the members of the PNP and PDM or did he feel the fire? Did they report the contents of their meeting o the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands? If so, when? If not, why not? Where were the anti-VAT supporters while Mr. Bellingham was here? Why protest the Governor and not his boss who calls the shots back in House of Commons? Was Bellingham, as the Minister responsible for the British Overseas Territories, apprised of, and tackled on, all of the burning national issues such as rising poverty, increase in crime, the sale of Joe Grant’s Cay and the secret deal that was cut for the sale of Provo Water Company? Was he told by the political parties of the corruption and financial scandals and overspending including the Helen Garlick-led Special Investigations and Prosecutions that have taken place over the past three years, the politically motivated and unfair system of justice, or about the unprecedented climate of fear and victimization that exists under this Interim Administration? If, in fact and indeed, he was, the people have a right to know. These, then, are a but few of the issues that could have formed the basis of a proper report to
the bases of both parties and residents in general, while simultaneously demonstrating to the country and indeed the world, that the political parties in Turks and Caicos Islands were not caught sleeping when elections were called. While it true that Dr. Rufus Ewing took over the reins of the PNP less than a month ago and his PDM counterpart Derek Taylor has been in position for under a year, the sad state of inertia and obvious unreadiness that characterised and still clearly afflicts the two parties is, to be sure, a serious indictment on the overall management of those political institutions. So while Dr. Ewing and Mr. Taylor can plead not yet being at the helm long enough to come to grips with most issues, every last one of those persons who occupied the high echelons in the PNP and PDM since August 14, 2009 when the British imposed direct rule, must of necessity, take the brunt of responsibility and criticism for not keeping their parties together and not ensuring that the machinery was well-oiled. By its very nature, a political party is an electionwinning machine. When political parties, from which Members of Parliament are derived, fail miserably at satisfying the most basic and elementary requirements, it does not at all augur well for how they will govern a country. As warped and politically-motivated as it may have been, Sir Robin Auld’s Commission of Inquiry report mentioned (although it is not among its much vaunted points of discussion) that there is a level of political immaturity in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Objective analysts and observers may find it exceedingly difficult to produce evidence to disprove that claim. Let us be truthful. Both political parties in the Turks and Caicos Islands are rusty. They appear weakened by the complacency which comes from too long a sojourn out of elective office and in the seat of power. But this leave of absence could have, and should have, been better spent by politicians developing and improving themselves and their parties! Since 2009, the British-appointed Interim Government, under governors Gordon Wetherell and Ric Todd, has had an extended honeymoon. They have won the public relations battle without having to wage the slightest fight. Important national issues, too numerous to mention, have gone un-noticed and unchallenged by both major political parties. Shadow cabinets; if they existed at all, were nothing more than deaf-mute, comatose mannequins for the past three years. Vocal opponents to the Interim Government can be counted on one hand! Members of the Advisory Council and the Consultative Forum, sat back and allowed some of the most cruel and painful measures to be imposed and inflicted on their own people, while taking self-comfort in constantly rehashing in the most silly and puerile fashion, the reasons why they were appointed in the first place, but perhaps too shortsighted to recognise that they also had an inherent obligation to stand-up for what is right and in the national interest. They too, like the political parties, the Church and the Chamber of Commerce, have been spectacular failures to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands for the past three years. Now that the election gun has gone off, some of them have the unmitigated gall to be dipping their toes in the political stream, while boldfaced others have jumped right in and few who still possess a modicum of self-respect and shame will ease and sneak their way in, between now and November. But why really, are they in it? Is it about you, or is it about them? Smart electors have a way of knowing who is in politics to offer true representation and who is in it for ulterior motives. Time will tell. Given the nature of adversary politics, this writer expects that constructive criticism such as the above, will be treated as evil and frowned upon by some party supporters and unthinking disciples who harbour contempt for contrary views and take matters to idiotic extremes. Notwithstanding that, now that elections have been called, all of those who aspire to political office have to be told in unequivocal terms that they must demonstrate
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
Turks and Caicos Sun Suite # 5, Airport Plaza Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Tel: (649) 946-8542/ (649) 241-1510 Fax: (649) 941-3281 Email: sun@suntci.com Read us online at www.suntci.com
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief: Hayden Boyce Senior Editor: Vivian Tyson 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.
that they have the ability, not only to inspire confidence and foster harmony, but to run this country efficiently, prudently, transparently and maturely. Whichever political party forms the next government of the Turks and Caicos Islands must be prepared to accept that as the Interim Government’s extended and expensive honeymoon comes to an end, a critical public will be eagerly looking forward to demonstrable proof as of now, that there is a cadre of persons who are competent and capable of managing this country affairs, which are, and will be, far more complex and sophisticated than they ever have been. Political parties and politicians certainly will not be able to plead inexperience, nor can they blame lack of satisfactory time or resources for their inability to make wise choices and exercise decisive leadership. Because of the magnitude of the task ahead, and if the current trend in public reaction is any guide and indication, they will not be given much respite from dissent. Even with the continued, excessive presence of overpaid, under-performing and out-of-touch British advisors and consultants, managing the Turks and Caicos Islands going forward will be a difficult assignment. Perhaps more than anything else, political parties and politicians in general, will first have to work assiduously to change the deeply embedded and entrenched, but not always realistic, expectations of the electorate. It is one thing to campaign on the basis of exciting promises, but it is an entirely different thing altogether when great expectations are aroused and subsequently unmet and replaced by impatience, disappointment and apathy. For, given the extreme bureaucracy and the crazy conditions, rules and regulations that will be welded into the machinations of governance and local representation, it is rather doubtful that any elected politician will be able to satisfy even the most basic demands of their constituents, far less the country as a whole. It will be the Brits’ ball, their game and their rules. And, as we already have seen, they will be free to change any or all of these, if and when they feel like. Still, this election is about more than the thousands of residents and hundreds of registered voters of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Indeed, the November 9th general elections and all that happens before and after that, presents a first-class opportunity for politicians in the Turks and Caicos Islands to show the country’s residents, the people of the Caribbean, the observers in England and the rest of the world, that the return to self-rule was well-justified and that they have the political acumen and all the other necessary qualifications that will one day lead them to full nationhood and independence, and so that the British Government will never, never, never again be able to impose direct rule on these islands. The ball, once again, is in the Turks and Caicos Islands court!
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Page 7
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
LOCAL NEWS
Alexandra Resort and Spa in receivership Hotelier Washington Misick says he is “disappointed” that the Lord Ashcroft-owned British Caribbean Bank (BCB) chose to place the Alexandra Resort and Spa into receivership instead of exploring other options. “I am disappointed that BCB chose receivership rather than a number of possible work-out options available to it,” Misick said in a press release. “However, it has given its assurance that business will continue as usual, that all employee jobs are protected, and that every effort will be made to enhance the going-concern value of the business. To that end I have agreed to assist where necessary in the interest of all stakeholders. It is worth noting, that this property, together with the associated concessions, employs up to 120 persons; it contributes millions of dollars to government revenue as well as to NIB and NHIB. Although now made more difficult by BCB’s decision, I continue to work hard to retire the debt and implement the turnaround and growth strategy that has been presented to BCB.” Misick, a former Chief Minister of the Turks and Caicos Islands and who is a 33 year veteran in residential and commercial real estate sales, development and property management, added: “The Alexandra, for me, is as much a legacy project as
Washington Misick Alexandra Resort and Spa
it is a business: it is the only locally owned development on Grace Bay, the Turks and Caicos’ Gold Coast. It is for this reason that I have poured my soul and resources into it, over the last twelve years. I genuinely consider it a national imperative to have local ownership in the islands’ only major industry. I hope that others will follow my example, despite increasing obstacles, and that Turks and Caicos Islanders will be able to maintain a modicum of ownership interest in the industry.” On June 7, 2012, BCB placed the
Salt Cay District Commissioner’s Office under investigation The Ministry of Environment and Home Affairs and the Treasury Department have launched an investigation into irregularities in general management of the District Administration’s Office in Salt Cay. According to a Government press release, investigations commenced on Friday 15th June 2012, and are still ongoing. The statement said measures are being put in place to strengthen the controls for the collection of revenue and for the general management and administration of the District Commissioners’ Offices throughout the islands. “The Ministry is actively pursuing the creation of One Stop Shops in the Family Islands; a concept which came about after consultation with the residents of the various islands. This initiative will improve the efficiency and effectiveness in the delivery of critical services. It will also result in the implementation of strong management teams and encourage greater synergies between Ministries to ensure accountability and transparency in the transaction of government business,” the press release noted.
ARS in receivership, and appointed a receiver/manager of the property. The resort is the fifth property in the Turks and Caicos Islands that the banking giant or one of its affiliates has taken control of in recent months. The others are The Sporting Club – Ambergris Cay, St. Charles Resort _ North Caicos; The Turks & Caicos Club, Leeward Resort (originally Nikki Beach). Alexandra Resort and Villas Limited is the development arm of Alexandra Resort and Spa (ARS). It is owned by Washington, his brother, former Premier Michael Misick and
Sherlock Walkin. Washington said that the subsidiary of ARS, Millennium Management Ltd. (MML) manages the resort. He added: “MML is both solvent and profitable. ARS, like many other properties, has been hit hard by the international phenomenon of high levels of inventory; penal interest rates, and sluggish sales. A good faith solution is possible, but requires creative compromise; I look forward to working with the receiver to find a win-win compromise. It bears mentioning that no other business operated by me is in any way affected by the receivership of the ARS.”
Jyles Javier is top GSAT student in the TCI BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
Jyles Javier of the Ona Glinton Primary School in Grant Turk is the top Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) student in the Turks and Caicos Islands with average of 92.14. Jyles, one of three Ona Glinton students in the top ten, was also named top Science and English Language student, having scored 98.08 in Science and a 93.00 in English Language. She also scored 91.00 in Mathematics to snatch third place. Alan Joy, one of three Oseta Jolly students in the top 10, was second with an average 90.40; Koji Hartley of Precious Treasures was third with an overall average of 90.08; Aaron Garland also of Ona Glinton Primary was fourth with 89.68; Chelsea Stubbs of BEST Institute was fifth with 89.44; Damani Gordon of Oseta Jolly was sixth scoring 87.54; Zalnickia Dickenson, another Ona Glinton Student, was seventh with an overall average of 86.78; Shaniel Swaby, with an overall average of 86.19 was eight; Yanea Thomas of Eliza Simons in
Grand Turk was ninth with an overall average of 85.24; while Herbedorens Saintil of Charles Hubert James in North Caicos completed the top 10 with 84.60. Oseta Jolly swept the top three in General Paper, with Shaniel Swaby leading the charge, scoring 94.00, followed by Damani Gordon with a score of 93.50 and Alan Joy with 93.00. Oseta Jolly scored big again in the individual subject area, when Alan Joy outclassed his fellow candidates to become the top Math student in the country with a score of 94.25. Precious Treasures’ Koji Hartley was a close second with 94.00. Koji was also second in English with a score of 92.50, ahead of Chelsea Stubbs of BEST Institute with a score of 91.00. Damani Gordon of Oseta Jolly was second in Science with a score of 93.85, ahead of schoolmate Shaniel Swaby with 93.85 and Aaron Garland of Ona Glinton, who both tied for third place on 92.69. SEE PHOTOS ON PAGE 19
CALL 946-8542 FOR MORE INFORMATION
Page 8
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
LOCAL NEWS
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
Public officials could be fined $15,000 or jailed for one year for failing to file declarations by June 30 Persons in public life who, without reasonable cause, fail to file declarations to the Integrity Commission by June 30, would have committed a criminal offence, punishable with imprisonment for one year or fine of $15,000 or both. This reminder was issued by Queen’s Counsel Eugene Otuonye, Director of the Integrity Commission, who added that the Commission is obligated to publish the fact of such failure in the Gazette. In a press statement, Otuonye said: “The Integrity Commission (the Commission) wishes to inform persons in public life that the deadline for filing their Declarations is June 30, 2012. Through the several recent public education sessions held in Providenciales and Grand Turk, the Commission provided sufficient opportunities for persons in public life to collect their declarations packages. Persons who have not yet collected their Declaration Packages are strongly advised to do so now. These Packages can be collected at the Office of the Commission at Waterloo Plaza Complex in Grand Turk between the hours of 9am to 4.30pm Monday through Thursday and up to 4pm on Fridays.” The Commission has also concluded the
following arrangements to receive completed Declaration Forms directly from Persons in Public Life: • Declarations from Grand Turk: Declarants residing in Grand Turk should submit their completed Declaration Forms personally at the Commission Office in Grand Turk on or before 4:30 pm on July 2, 2012. • Declarations from Family Islands The Compliance Officer, Ms Karin Taylor- Bell will be on hand in the family Islands to personally receive the completed declarations on the following dates and venues:
Commission whether or not they filed Declaration in 2010. (a) Persons in public life as set out in Schedule 1 of the Integrity Commission Ordinance 2008 as amended. (b) Persons who became persons in public life effective from August 13, 2010 to date (c) Persons who have ceased to be persons in public life effective from August 13, 2010 to date (the amended Scheduled list of persons in Public Life is attached for review) SOUTH CAICOS: Saturday, JUNE Please be reminded again that Eugene Otuonye 30, 2012 10:00 am-2:00pm Police by the recent amendments to the Station Integrity Commission Ordinance, PROVIDENCIALES: Monday, JULY 2, 2012 declarations are due to be filed with the Commission 10:00am -4:00pm Five Cays Police Station on or before June 30, 2012. NORTH CAICOS: Tuesday, JULY 3, 2012 10amFor further Information, please contact the 12:00pm Police Station Integrity Commission at telephone number: 946Please be reminded that the following persons 1941 or by the e-mail: are mandated by law to file declarations with the Integrity.commission1@gmail.com
Police to increase patrols in Blue Hills POLICE are stepping up patrols following a spate of burglaries in the Blue Hills area. Officers will be increasing their presence in the area in a bid to stamp-
out property break-ins. A number of homes have recently being targeted, with three houses burgled in Belglade Gardens over the past week.
JOB VACANCY Cost Control Clerk Margaritaville Grand Turk seeks to identify a
REQUIREMENTS: - Degree in Accounts or related field and/or at least 5 years experience at the international level. - Able to do circulating inventory, continuous inventory & full inventory, monthly and quarterly. - Conduct bar par inventory on all bars - Ensure controls are in place delivery -Work alongside chef to conduct periodic yield test and menu cost - Conduct daily property walk to detect inefficiencies, wastage - Computer knowledge in excel and other spreadsheet programs. - Ability to work under stress. - Communicate orally and in writing. - Ability to work with minimal supervision. - Ability to work flexible hours including public holidays, weekends and night shift. - Energetic and people oriented, reliable with problem solving skills
OTHER POSITIONS ARE: Stilt Walker, Entertainment Coordinator, Bartenders, Servers & Kitchen Helpers.
All applications need to be submitted to the HR department by 6th July, 2012. Belongers only need apply Margaritaville Grand Turk. Grand Turk Cruise Center White Sands Beach Grand Turk
Most of the incidents have occurred during daylight hours when the occupants are at work. A RTCI Police spokesman explained: "We have unfortunately seen an increase in incidents in the Blue Hills area. The Police Service is working hard to crack down on crime throughout the islands and we will be stepping up patrols in the Blue Hills district over the coming weeks.cThis will involve many different initiatives including extra officers on the beat as well as getting out and speaking to homeowners and persons in the area to gather their observations and their suspicions on responsible parties.cBlue Hills, and Belglade Gardens in particular, are served with active neighbourhood watch schemes and we will be liaising with representatives in an effort to combat this problem."
Police have today issued advice to all houseowners in the TCI about how to keep their homes secure. "When leaving your homes there are certain basic things people should do", added the spokesman. "These include making sure all windows and doors are securely fastened and that any valuable items are locked away and not on view through the window."Take an extra few moments to double check everything before you leave and always be aware of any suspicious persons or vehicles in the area. If you do see something that concerns you make a note of times, descriptions and vehicle registration numbers. It is also advisable to mark all valuable items with security markers and make a note of serial numbers so that if you are unfortunate enough to be burgled there is a greater chance of getting your property back."
THE PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC MOVEMENT Serving Since 1975 Turks and Caicos Islands
URGENT PRESS RELEASE FROM THE PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC MOVEMENT The PDM here announces its closure of acceptance of applications for at large candidates on the 27th of June 2012. Any additional persons seeking to be an at large candidate should submit all applications to the secretary general via email euwonkas@hotmail.com or delivered in a sealed envelope to any of our branches marked to the secretary general’s attention no later than 5pm on the said date. All additional persons seeking candidacy for constituencies are asked to apply in writing to the branch chairman on respective islands no later than 5 pm July 15 2012.
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Page 9
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
LOCAL NEWS
Electoral Boundaries Commission by August BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
The two political parties vying to grab the reins of power to become the first post British direct rule government should know the ten new constituencies by August, according to Governor Ric Todd. Publishing of the final register of electors list and the completion of the Electoral Boundaries Ordinance, to put the 10 new electoral districts into law, were only a two of a litany of measures announced on Monday, June 18, by Governor Todd, during a news conference at the National Environmental Centre in the Bight. After the announcement of the November 9, election date, both political parties expressed concern that, while they were happy that an election date was identified, would be unable to field constituency candidates, since the boundaries were yet to be created.
However, Governor Todd said that the Interim Administration would seek to add momentum to the process to make the electoral system ready far in advance of local polls. He said that Government would publish a provisional register of electors, while also naming the Electoral Boundaries Commission, and by August everything should be in place. The Governor indicated that local election campaigns would officially commence on October 15, just after the 2011 Constitution coming into effect. Political candidates will able to register as either at large or constituency participants. The Governor also announced that Independent election monitors would arrive in the TCI, to oversee the polls. In the meantime, the Interim Administration announced that the Integrity Commission would, in the future, take on the role of the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT), which is orchestrating charges
against a number of individuals, including former government movers and shakers. Phillip Rushbrook, Director of Strategy in the Governor’s Office, said that the Integrity Commission would be given powers that would enable it to determine whether or not matters coming before it, will be deemed criminal or otherwise. “We had the first updating of the Integrity Commission Ordinance earlier this year, and that was largely broadening the number of people who are covered by the compliance requirements of the Integrity Commission. The second part of their reform and the broadening activities is to define more precisely and to give a wider range of powers to their investigatory side. “There is two halves if you recall the Integrity Commission; there is compliance, which is showing that those people in senior public office disclose all of their interests, and then
there is the investigation side, where corruption and possible transgression of the rules have taken place. The Integrity Commission is a natural successor of the SIPT. So in future, issues relating to corruption or fraudulent behavior involving public funds or public resources will be taken up first my the Integrity Commission. “They would decide whether it is an issue that they can handle or whether there is a clear and blatant criminal transgression, and if so, they would pass it to the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police. But the first point of decision in the future will be Integrity Commission, on taking forward decisions on how investigations would be pursued. They are going to be given powers, which are therefore; more closely associate being able to take evidence up to criminal standard. They would require people to give evidence under oath, and things you would expect from a criminal level standard of investigation,” Rushbrook said.
Birth certificate fee Methodist Circuit waived for persons honours Bill Clare, registered as unemployed Norman Saunders The Ministry of Border Control and Labour and the Elections Office is reminding the general public that the deadline to complete the application and registration process - Friday June 29 2012, is approaching fast. While the registration thus far has been proceeding well, the last few days are important. The Governor and the Ministry have been listening carefully to the public concerns and the representations made by the political parties and concerned citizens about the difficulties experienced by the unemployed. In order to facilitate those who are unemployed who have not registered and still wish to do so, with immediate effect, and for the remaining eight (8) days of registration, Belongers who are registered as unemployed with the Ministry of Border Control and Labour on or before June 20 2012, will have the $20 fee for birth certificate waived. The provision is not retrospective and only applies to REGISTERED UNEMPLOYED persons. • The Government had previously reduced the Birth Certificate fee from $40 to $20 to encourage persons to register. However, this is now an additional effort made to further encourage persons to register and to maximize the registration process. • As a further provision made by Government to encourage registration, registration centres hours have also been extended throughout the islands.
Casablanca Casino
Positions Available
1 Surveillance Operation Manager at $18.75 per hour 4 Dice Dealers Inspectors at $13.50 per hour Slots Manager
Drop resume off at Casablanca Casino Attn: HR Manager Interested persons contact Ms. Ingraham 244-4664
RICARDO FULFORD CONSULTANT SERVICES on behalf of his clients is seeking for the following: Six (6) Gardeners Five (5) Labourer Two (2) Mechanics One (1) mechanical Electrician One (1) Sales Person One (1) Domestic Worker One (10 Labourer Salaries are $5.00 per hour and schedule are a assign by the employer. Interested candidate may apply through fulfordricardo@yahoo.com Good luck to all interested applicant.
Longstanding and prominent figure on the Turks and Caicos Islands landscape Bill Clare was presented with his 40 year Long Service Award as an accredited local preacher, by Bishop Derek Browne, President of the Bahamas Turks and Caicos Islands Conference of the Methodist Church in the Caribbean and the Americas (MCCA) on Sunday, June 17, during the 7a.m., Devine Service, at the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Blue Hills, Providenciales. Former Chief Minister Norman Saunders of South Caicos, another accredited local preacher of the South Caicos Circuit received his award in Grand Turk, and Clare is seen proudly displaying his award was presented by new President of the MCCA, Rev. Otto Wade, during the Connexional Conference, held in the latter part of May. Clare said he chose to have his presentation done in Provo with his local congregation. Both Saunders and Clare are from South Caicos, and began their careers at the Methodist Church during the early 1960s under the tutelage of the Rev. Luis Veagra, during which time the Methodist Church in the TCI was under the Jamaica District of Methodist Churches. Both became accredited local preachers in 1971, during the chairmanship of the late Rev. Edwin Taylor, when the TCI Churches became a part of the Bahamas District. However, their recognition services were held during the tenure of the Rev. Nymphas Edwards, who served between 1975 and 1978. The awards to Clare and Saunders were the second such recognitions that they have received from the church. The first awards they received from the Methodist Church came in the 1990s, when both were recognized for 20 years of service.
Page 10
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
LOCAL NEWS
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
Political party leaders to get government lessons BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
Heads of the two political parties are to get themselves acclimatized with the news system of government so that whichever one wins at the November 9 polls would be able to take over the reins of power without much hitches. His Excellency Governor Ric Todd announced on Monday, that his administration would in July invite Leader of the Progressive National Party (PNP) Dr. Rufus Ewing and either current Peoples Democratic Movement Leader Derek Taylor or his challenger at the party convention later this month, Oswald Skippings, to meet with civil servants and top tier government official, to appraise themselves and adapt to the new measures established by the current administration. “One other thing that we are going to do, which is new here in the TCI; we have invited the leaders of the parties, starting in July, to go and meet
privately in confidence with the permanent secretaries and senior officials, so that each party has the chance to talk through with the civil servants who might be working for them, what they want to do. So in effect, it is about taking what the politicians want to do with how it is going to be done. “That is a chance for the senior civil servants and the political leaders to talk about the issues honestly and openly, but in confidence, so that when a new government comes in, they would have a clearer sense of what they want done; the public sector would be ready to serve them – because after all the public sector does serve the elected government, and we will build that relationship with mutual respect and understanding, which is critical for good government on TCI,” Governor Todd said. In the meantime, Phillip Rushbrook, the Director of Strategy in the Governor’s Office, said that a similar system existed in the United Kingdom, which provides for
prospective elected officials meeting with senior civil servants to keep abreast of government systems so that they would hit the ground running in the event that their party form the next government. “The way it normally works in the UK, in the period of calling an election, or in the case of the TCI – when the Constitution comes into effect before having an election – it is not unusual for senior civil servants to have bi-lateral discussions with representatives from the political parties. The idea is to explain the current state of the situation on what policies are being taken forward at the present time, the budget and resource availability and also to inform the parties. “And likewise, the parties can explain to the permanent secretaries the sort of things they would love to see as priority. These discussions are confidential, naturally, because only one party can get in power, and the permanent secretaries have to maintain confidences. But it’s to start that dialogue to understand the state of play
Ex-con Haywood McIntosh on police most wanted list Ex-convict Haywood McIntosh, alias “Woody” is back on the police radar, this time wanted for a string of dangerous offences, police reports said. According to t he police, McIntosh 27, who is on the run, is believed to be armed and dangerous, and therefore should be approached with the strictest of caution. “Mr. McIntosh is wanted by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force in connection with a number of offences on Providenciales. He is considered armed and dangerous. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts please call at: 946-4259/946-8067 or Crimestoppers at
1-800-8477,” a release from the police said. McIntosh spent six months in prison in 2010, after police conducting a spot check along the South Dock main road, stopped and searched a vehicle in which he and another man were travelling and found a pistol. The incident took place hours after McIntosh was released from hospital after being shot while visiting someone in Kew Town, Providenciales in January of that year. Three men, Harry McKenzie, Lavar Walking and Demoy Brown were convicted in June of 2011, and each sentenced to 14 years in prison.
GROUNDSMAN
TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
The TCIFA requires a fulltime Groundsman to be responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the TCIFA’s National Academy building and playing field/facilities. The Successful applicant must be reliable, hardworking and enthusiastic, must be able to work under no supervision and be willing to work on weekends and holidays. Starting salary $7.00 hr. Closing date of application 10th June 2012. Applications submitted to: The General Secretary Turks & Caicos Islands Football Association Fax no: 649-941-5554 E-mail: tcifa@tciway.tc
so you are not faced with complete lack of knowledge until day one, when the new government comes in to power,” Rushbrook explained. He told the news media corps that the dialogue between the politicians and the senior government officials would take place on a regular basis, so that the political hopefuls would be better able to use the information received to craft their manifestos and to make critical decisions that would be advantageous to their individual party’s fortunes at the polls. In the meantime, Governor Todd said that both party heads were formally and informally informed of the plan. “Yes, they have, both informally and also on paper. And I also had some initial conversations with the two leaders, which we have agreed that they like the idea and willing to take it up, and we will ensure that that happens. I should say that I have had regular dialogue with the political party leaders on TCI since I have arrived, and not something that we have just done,” Governor Todd said.
But in June of this year, they were freed on appeal after the trio of appellate judges – Elliot Mottley, Christopher Zacca and Richard Ground, found holes in the prosecution’s case. Haywood accused of chasing McKenzie along the Leeward Highway with a highEx-convict Haywood McIntosh, powered weapon aka “Woody” sometime last year, resulting in McKenzie having to seek refuge on the grounds of the Community Fellowship Centre Church. However, he was not charged for that incident.
TCA HANDLING IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS:
RAMP AGENTS/AIRCRAFT CLEANERS/SECURITY AGENTS/CUSTOMER SERVICE AGENTS • • • •
Good command of the English Language Willing to work shift pattern including weekends and holidays Clean Police record Valid driver’s license
Ramp Agent Starting salary $7.00 per hour Cleaners starting Salary $10.00 per aircraft Security Agent salary $7.50 per hour Customer Service Agents $8.50 per hour Submit application along with photograph to: General Manager TCA Handling Town Centre Mall Providenciales Tel: 649-941-5353
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Page 11
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
LOCAL NEWS
VAT in TCI reaches House of Commons Discussion on the implementation of Value Added Tax (VAT) in the Turks and Caicos Islands has reached the House of Commons in England. On June 18th, MP Andrew Rosindell asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what is his policy on the introduction of VAT in the Turks and Caicos Islands; and if he will make a statement. Mr Henry Bellingham, who was recently in the Turks and Caicos Islands to announce that elections will be on November 9th, 2012, replied: “The introduction of VAT is a decision for the Turks and Caicos Islands Government. Their decision was based on thorough research and an assessment that VAT would offer a simpler, equitable and stable revenue source. A decision to introduce VAT was announced in the 2011-12 budget statement. A Green Paper on VAT implementation was published in May and consultation is under way on this.” Chief Financial Officer Hugh McGarel-Groves in response to a local anti-VAT campaign, said last week that introducing VAT in the Turks and Caicos Islands
offers the opportunity to further strengthen the country’s fragile recovery by introducing a simpler, equitable and stable source of Government revenue. He said: “As the community of the TCI continues to discuss the implementation of VAT, critical questions must continue to be asked of both of the Government but also of the anti-VAT campaigners: what are their alternatives to the benefits of VAT to a renewed TCI; is opposition to VAT borne from a desire to continue not to pay tax at all in some business sectors? “Given the difficulties endured by the TCI economy since the collapse of the last Government, it is in the best interests of the entire community to ensure that Government finances are secure and that it can continue to develop expenditure plans in line with local peoples’ priorities – a process already begun in this year’s Budget. VAT is a proven system across the Caribbean. It is straightforward to administer and is beneficial here in that this single form of taxation replaces five different sets of ordinances that both Government and business need to keep abreast of.” An on-line anti-VAT campaign
(http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/just-say-no-to-vat/) said that for most citizens with a vested interest in the Turks and Caicos Islands, TCIG’s recent decision to implement VAT in these Islands “is an experiment that we can ill afford”. The petitioners argued that both the VAT Green Paper and consultations with the recently formed VAT implementation team have made it clear that the practical implementation of the proposed VAT system has not been fully researched, and the VAT impact on the TCI economy has not been fully quantified. The petition stated: “The three main reports that form the basis of TCIG’s new love affair with VAT are the CARTAC Report of '11, the Dos Santos EU Report of '10/'11 and the Roe Report of ’10 (it is curious that Roe consulted with over 60 prominent citizens from both the public and private sectors and still managed to produce a decidedly pro-VAT report). The EU Report has yet to be released to the public. Base on an earlier CARTAC study, an elected TCI Government looked at VAT as an option in '05 but decided against it.”
Tourist rescued after falling into “e Hole” A 57 year-old male tourist may still be thanking his lucky stars after rescue workers hauled him from the chasm of tourism attraction following a near 20-foot fall while on a rope-climbing escapade which obviously went awry. The incident took place at ‘The Hole’, a famous tourism attraction located in Long Bay, Providenciales on Tuesday, June 19. A spokesperson for the InterHealth Canada-run Cheshire Hall Medical Centre said that the tourist suffered only superficial injures which were not life-threatening and was kept overnight for observation purposes as a result. Police Spokesman, Paul Baker, said that 911 dispatchers received a call that a man had fallen into ‘The Hole’, and was having difficulties climbing from it. He said that Members of the little over a month-old Turks and Caicos Emergency
The Hole located in Providenciales
Response Task Force (TCERTF), which is made up of volunteers from across the island, was dispatched to the scene, along with police, firefighters and paramedics.
PAOLA HIDALGO IVAN BARBERSHOP Is seeking
1 Barber
To work full time Salary $200.00 per week Please contact Paola Hidalgo @ 331-1977
NADIA SALON Needs a Hairstylist Required to work 6 days per week From 10:30am to 5:00pm Salary $6.00 per hour And must be able to work on holidays Contact 246-6037
Baker said that it was theorized that the tourist was ascending the attraction using a rope on which he had made an earlier descent, when the incident took place. He said that the
Mackey’s Tire Is seeking
A Labourer
Domestic Worker Salary $5.00 per hour Contact 941-4440 or 241-0054
Bay Bistro Restaurant
Seeks 1 Domestic Worker Salary $5.00 per hour Contact 341-7061
tree on which the rope was attached, got uprooted in the process, causing him to fall about 15 feet back into the pit and landed onto a rocky ledge. Baker said that a full-scale rescue operation was launched with rescue workers using a rope and a pulley system to climb down and retrieve the injured man. When he was eventually brought back to the surface, it was revealed that he sustained cuts, bruises and an injury to his back.. He was treated by paramedics at the scene before he was rushed to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre by ambulance for further treatment. Baker added that the terrain of the tourist attraction, coupled with its location, proved both difficult and challenging for the rescue operation. Tuesday’s incident marked the first time that someone had reportedly fallen into the pit.
COVE CONSTRUCTION LTD
Cove Construction wishes to employ a
Grader Operator.
A minimum of five years experience with the appropriate qualification is a must. Must be very proficient, honest and a reliable worker. Must be willing to work in the family Islands, Overseas, Overtime, weekends and holidays. Clean police record is essential. Belonger only needs to apply. Wages starting at 413.50 per hour Please contact Mr. Keith Howell, Production Manager 941-5548 Email: keith.cove@tciway.tc
Page 12
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
LOCAL NEWS
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
Stolen TCI passenger ferry found in Haiti A passenger ferry stolen from its mooring in Providenciales last weekend was found off the coast of Haiti this week and two men have been held in connection with the crime.\= According to the police, the 43ft Heveanly Daze - white double-decker vessel - operated by Caribbean Cruising, was discovered stolen from its parked area at Heaven Down Rock Marina on Sunday night, June 16. The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands (RTCI) Police official said that a search was launch across the country and beyond its borders. The police official said that law enforcers in neighboring countries were contacted, resulting in the vessel being found in Haitian waters. “After the vessel was reported missing at the weekend a major search operation was launched involving the
incident. The vessel has now been taken into port by the Haitian authorities,” the police officer said. The police were not able to reveal the nationalities or identities of the suspects, or whether or not they suspected that the boat was stolen to be used in illicit activities such as human or drug trafficking. In the meantime, local crime sleuths are asking members of the public who may have knowledge of the theft and or any activities in which the boat might have been involved, to forward information to the police on 911 or Crime Stoppers on 1-800-8477. Tips can also be left in English, A photo of the ferry that was stolen found Heaven Down Rock last weekend and found in waters off French or Spanish at the coast of Haiti earlier this week www.crimestoppers.tc or by becoming RTCI Police Marine Division. colleagues in Haiti that the ferry had a friend of Crime Stoppers TCI on Authorities in neighboring countries been located within their waters. Two Facebook. They said that crime were also alerted and we yesterday men were detained and are being prevention tips are also available by (June 19) received information from questioned in connection with the visiting www.tcipolice.tc.
DONT BE A VICTIM OF CRIME 1. Stay alert: Keep your mind on your surroundings, who's in front of you and who's behind you. 2. TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS. If you feel uncomfortable in a situation, leave.
www.rdicaribbean.com www w.rdicaribbean.com
IT’S TIME TO MAKE YOUR DREAMS YOUR REALITY
.. . .
UK
distanc ning distancee lear learning fr om RDI C aribbean from Caribbean
LLow ow stud studyy ccosts, osts, fle flexible xible pa payments yments Develop your your career career while studying studying Develop Tutor and student student support support included Tutor Free membership membership of International International Free Management Academy Academy plus benefits benefits Management No attendance attendance requirement requirement No
PROGRAMMES PROGRAMMES OFFERED INCLUDE INCLUDE Bachelors/Masters degrees degrees in Business, Business, Bachelors/Masters Hospitality, Law, Law, Computing Computing and many many Hospitality, more. more.
Now Now recruiting recruiting for for July July intake intake
www.rdicaribbean.com www w.rdicaribbean.com
POSITIONS AVAILABLE
AVIONICS TECHNICAL RECORD CLERK Must be computer literate Windows and have experience working in a Database environment; Must have knowledge of Aircraft Technical Log Book; Must have experience as a Data Entry clerk. Must Liaison with flight operations Knowledge of Technical Record keeping Must be able to Maintain the tracking of aircrafts times and cycles Must be able to Prepare and manage work load for mechanics Salary commensurate with experience.
2 PILOTS To be a commander of the EMB 120-ATC. Must have a valid Airline Transport Pilots license, First class medical and 3,000 hours flight time aero planes, 1,600 pilot command including 500 hours experience on multi crew turbine propeller airplanes and 100 hours on type (jet prop). Salary commensurate with experience
Aircraft Mechanics Experience working on piston and turbo-propeller aircraft. Responsible for inspecting, servicing, repairing and testing aircraft, engines and related systems as directed. Read, understand and work from aircraft maintenance manuals and specifications. Salary commensurate with experience. Positiona require the following: • Excellent command of the English language – reading, writing and speaking. • Good communication skills and team player • Detail oriented & organized individual • Ability to work shifts, early mornings, late nights, weekends and Holidays. • Clean police record • Able to work under pressure Belongers need only apply. Interested person should apply to HR@flyairtc.com or via fax to HR Department 649-946-4040. No phone call please. Qualified candidates will be contacted for interview.
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Page 13
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
LOCAL NEWS
Fortis launches expensive summer employment programme A number of college and high school students are set to benefit from a two tier work experience programme at light and power company Fortis, which is seeking to spark greater interests in the sciences among that demographic. The Summer Internship Programme (SIP)and Student Summer Employment Programme were unveiled last Friday, June 15, at Fortis office along the Leeward Highway in Providenciales, and CEO, Eddington Powell, said not only would it assist students with funds for back to school and other expenses, but also to equip them with well-needed experience. The Students’ Summer Employment Programme has been designed for university students, while the SIP, according to Powell, will cater to community college and senior high school students comprising fourth and fifth forms. The Students’ Summer Employment Programme will last for two months, while the SIP will last for two weeks. “We want to offer those students at universities employment opportunities on an annual basis two months – in the months of June, July and August. As for the Summer Internship Programme, those programmes will last for two weeks, and they are geared to a younger demographic of students than the Student’s Summer Employment Programme. “The whole purpose and idea behind these programmes is, one, to encourage and introduce people to engineering, although the programme offered to, as you heard, a variety of disciplines. But we are focusing on engineering. We also want people to get a feel for what is all about, and the culture – what we do at the various functions and departments at Fortis TCI,” Powell said. The Fortis TCI Head added that the programme was also geared to making certain science subjects becoming attractive to young Turks and Caicos Islanders, who educators, said have been shying away from those subject areas. He said by equipping the students, Fortis would be able to take from the best minds in the country, to improve on its product delivery going forward. “These young people represent the future employment pool from which we have to hire in the future, so we believe that it is a win-win situation for the company and for the community as well. This is part of our commitment not only to developing but be part of the
A section of the audience in attendance at the Student Summer Employment and Internship Programme sponsored by Fortis TCI.
community. “A lot of our students are not inclined towards the sciences, and again, you know we are the major sponsor of the Science Fair, for the same reason. We want to encourage our students in Physics, Math and Chemistry – the engineering subjects that they would need to succeed at the engineering programme,” Powell said. He noted further: “There are institutions in our community that develop lawyer, accountants and so on, but we understand that we have a particular responsibility to encourage the development of engineers. We need all of those skills – accountants and lawyers and so on, but we have a particular responsibility to develop engineers.” Powell said while he would not be able to place a price tag on the undertaken, he reckoned that it would run in the ‘tens of thousands of dollars’. He said that Fortis aimed to attract between 15 and 20 students over the summer period. He said that the two new programmes seamlessly dovetailed with their scholarship programme that his company currently runs. Former Fortis scholarship recipients and current employees Daylon Joseph and Alvejes Desir gave testimonials on how they became beneficiaries. The event was also attended by principals and seniors teachers of the various institutions, who pledged their support. Wayne Jackson, Principal for TCIPS Comprehensive described the Fortis initiative as a ‘very, very good and timely programme, since there should be a
YOUR AD COULD BE HERE Call 946-8542 to place your ad today
greater emphasis on the sciences so that students would look at the subjects more favourable. Jackson said that he would waste no time selling the programme to his student body. Principal for the British West Indies Collegiate, Sylvie Wigglesworth described it as interesting and a good opportunity for, especially students, who are undecided on a career, to work in such environment, so that they could make up their minds on the career paths they wish to choose. She said that she would
Fortis Scholarship and employee Daylon Joseph delivers a testimonial on benefits gained thorough the company
encourage her students to participate in the programme. For his part, Reinford Trail, Principal for Maranatha High School said that his school knew first hand that the new programme would be excellent for students, since a past pupil was a Fortis scholarship recipient. He said also that other students would be happy to know that they were now being given an opportunity to gain valuable work experience with the possibility of being hired later on after they have completed college.
Page 14
Career Opportunities:
Grace Bay Club is looking for candidates that have the requirements listed along with an outgoing professional manner. They love to work with different types of people, meet challenges with a positive attitude and live the standards of our organization. Their management style is one that balances a commitment to people and their development with business/financial accountability and delivers an exceptional guest experience
Director of Engineering
Requirements: • Masters in Engineering • Minimum 10 years of total experience • Provide leadership and build an engineering team(s) to ensure engineering capability meets program requirements for various maintenance and modification programs and that associated drawings and specifications are accurate so that products are in accordance with proper engineering techniques and applicable specifications. • Previous 5 star luxury opening Resort experience a must. Previous Caribbean and International hotel experience a definite asset. • Previous experience with “Green Initiatives” a definite asset. • Analyze problems associated with development of equipment or systems. • Conduct property surveys to identify hazards to guests & employees recommending corrective actions. • Strong written and oral communication skills. Ability to use MS Office products(i.e. Word, PowerPoint, Excel & Microsoft Project) Qualified Belongers need only to apply. Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience
Kitchen Helper
Requirements: • Assist with Food & Beverage service • Receive and store supplies. • Stock cupboards, refrigerators and salad bars • Clean food preparation and storage areas • Assist with food preparation • Work with minimal supervision Qualified Belongers need only to apply. Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience
Assistant Chief Engineer
Requirements: • At least an associate degree or equivalent in electrical, mechanical, or electronic engineering • Minimum of three (3) years practical experience in operating and maintaining electrical, mechanical, and/or electronic plant/equipment/systems, preferably at a luxury resort • Proficiency in Word and Excel • Proficiency in Opera and SAP would be an asset • Good time management and follow-up skills • Must be able to operate in a high-pressure environment
Responsibilities: • The day-to-day management of the technical team and the operation and maintenance of all plant, equipment and civil works (cables, pipe work, drains, structures etc.) . • Utilizing all relevant systems/programs in the management of the department (Opera, SAP, Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM), etc.) • The completion of work orders, energy conservation activities, etc. and analyses as required. • Assisting with inventory management and the development, implementation and management of all engineering projects. Qualified Belongers need only apply. Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience
Labourer
Requirements: • Operate, maintain and repair the property’s heating, ventilation are conditioning and refrigeration systems • Perform Laundry and Kitchen services • Perform preventative maintenance on the hotel’s systems • Pool cleaning, chemical testing, adding chemical as required. • Maintain the proper use, cleaning, maintenance and storage of all tools.
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
• Responsible for cleaning grease traps, lift stations, checking & treatment of sewage treatment plant. • Assist with additional Maintenance Department tasks as assigned Belongers need only to apply Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience
Executive Assistant
Requirements • Minimum 5 years experience as executive personal assistant. • Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality. • Problem solver, effective communicator and team player. • International, five star, hospitality experience. • Dependable, trustworthy, exceptionally organized. • Ability to work with little to no supervision • Must have demonstrated PC skills including PowerPoint, MS Project, Excel pivot tables and databases. Must read and speak English and Chinese fluently. Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience
Bartender
Requirements: • Applicant must be a minimum of 19 years of age. • Be fluent in written and spoken English. • Possess a High School Certificate. • Have two years experience as a Bartender, or one year as a Bar back in a five star-hotel upscale environment. • Perform specified Bartender duties, including food and drink orders, preparation, and serving. • Direct and assist the Bar back and beverage servers. • Follow specific cash and system handling procedures. • Be responsible in the serving of alcohol and the laws and regulations surrounding it. • Maintain ongoing knowledge of the hotel operations. • Maintain the cleanliness, working order, and presentation of the bar top, tables, service areas and outlet itself. Qualified Belongers need only apply. Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience
Pool & Beach Manager
Responsibilities: • Managing all aspects of the beach and pool, in accordance with the hotel standards. • He/she directs, implements, and maintains a service and management philosophy that serves as a guide to the Water Sports staff. It is the responsibility of the To oversee and supervise Water Sports & Beach Manager to oversee and supervise the Beach and Pool Attendants, ensuring guest services at the beach and pool are running efficiently and smoothly Requirements: • Have two years work experience as a Supervisor in Water Sports in a luxury hotel. • Be fluent in written and spoken English. • Possess First Aid certification and CPR Training. • Be a strong swimmer. • Monitor the Attendants’ activities to ensure the guests’ needs are being taken care of regularly. • Greet and inform all guests of the available Water Sports activities. Actively promote excursions. • Monitor the cleanliness and maintenance of the beach and pool area, as well as the equipment and furniture at those areas • Maintain awareness of all Water Sports activities and Tour Operators on the island. Actively promote excursions. • Ensure there are enough supplies, such as fresh towels, for the guests. • Make certain liability waivers are signed, and all administration is complete. • Observe and monitor the safety of guests and visitors. Qualified Belongers need only apply. Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience Interested persons can contact our Human Resources Department no later than June 22, 2012 @ (649) 946-5050 Ext. 1050 Email: veronica.clare@gracebayclub.com Fax: (649) 946-5758 P.O. Box 128 Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, British West Indies
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Page 15
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
LOCAL NEWS
Don’t speak to Todd, appeal to Bellingham By Royal S. Robinson, MBE This past Sunday, which was Fathers’ Day, I attended an appreciation service for “Pops”, “Art” or “Butterfield” as he is called and Momma, Aunt Cita as she is called. It was truly a service where the roses were given while the persons are alive and kicking and could appreciate it, rather than when the cold icy hands of death have touched them and they cannot hear the accolades! But in all of that, what was really touching for me was the Sermon preached by Rev. Derek Hamilton. Of particular importance to me were the works captioned above! In our present context, the Reverend coined it correctly. We must in the end remember that Governor Todd is only a messenger and that the real decision makers are in London. He acts as the conduit for transmitting information between us, the governed and the masters in White Hall! We must be cognizant of the fact that sometimes the message gets twisted in the translation and transmission. So in some instances we cannot always take the “shoot the messenger approach”. I know that at times I have been guilty of that especially at times when the messenger seems to be speaking with forked tongue. The Progressive National Party, having solved its leadership battle, will soon be announcing its slate of candidates, first for the “At Large” seat, and subsequently for the other 10 single member constituencies. With the People’s Democratic Movement going through a similar exercise by the end of the month, the people will begin to see how both sides are shaping up. Following on from that, must come a position paper that both parties can agree on, and that must be given a public hearing here in the Turks and Caicos Islands so the “buy in” and
ownership at home are assured. Once that is done, it must be proclaimed far and wide as the united position of the people of this country. I know that it is not going to be easy as both sides in the past looked at each other with suspicion for whatever reason. But having come through the bruising crucible meted to us by this imposing Interim Administration, clearly, there are a number of issues on which the parties can and must agree on in the interest of the people of this country. I think that for too long we have, by our own pettiness allowed the Interim Administration to hold sway in our country to the equal detriment to both parties and the people. We have to remember that these people are masters of “divide and rule” as they invented and subsequently perfected that process which allowed them to have had one of the greatest empires of any of the colonizing powers. Do you remember the saying that “the sun never sets on the British Empire”? That was by design and not an accident. So it is incumbent on all of us to come together for the common good of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. It certainly cannot in anyone’s wildest dream be “business as usual”. We have to fully understand who we are dealing with and make our plans accordingly. Now in London, even though Minister Bellingham is the point man for the Overseas Territories, it is, in our case right now, that the DFID Minister, Alan Duncan who wields the real power. He is the one responsible for getting the loan guarantee in place and for driving the process to ensuring that there is no contingent liability that the British have to deal with, with respect to us. Every piece of legislation, particularly the CFO bill is geared to ensure that outcome. So do not let us be blindsided by any of the platitudes that might be emanating from these people. They are the masters of
disguise! In our present circumstances, do you see who they have sent to be the top man here? The man, as part of his career profile was and in all probability is a spy. That is not any news out of school! They have been sowing the seeds of distrust among our people towards one another. We have to beat back that nonsense and see it for what it is. It is nothing more than a ploy to continually justify their existence here. Nothing more, nothing less! All of these platitudes are nothing more than that. All they have been trying to do and succeeding to a great extent is “thiefing our sense”. At this juncture in our political and educational life, we cannot allow that stupidity to be perpetrated on us and we are lapping it up like it is some manner falling from Heaven. It is time that we away those nonsense theories and get down to real basics. We have a county to build. It has been clearly demonstrated to us that the British are not really interested in helping us to build this country. All of their previous actions and those of today speak clearly to that fact. Flawed in some ways as the scholarship programme might have been, it least we can say that a large number of students availed themselves of the opportunity and made good on being granted the privilege. A case in point is Dr. Harvey, who has returned as a dentist. Had the British been in place during those days, he would not have been able to avail himself of such a scholarship as that profession was like many others not appropriate to the needs of Turks and Caicos Islands. All of the major advances that this country has made were done so when we had a duly elected government, by the people and for the people. Do not for one brief moment lose sight of that fact. In the recent “surplus budget” that was just unveiled in the Consultative Forum, Stevie Wonder and members
ROYAL ROBINSON CONTRIBUTER
of the Forum saw that the priority areas were not in sync with what the general public wanted, even though it was said that that was in our best interest. Old John C. said “far be the thought”! These people have been winning the public relations battle in the world’s court of public opinion. The first real shot across their bow came from the Anglican Bishop Boyd who is responsible the flock of the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands. Make no mistake about it, that was a shot that rang true and home. No matter what they have tried to say to the contrary, and no matter how much spin they have tried to put on it, the dagger stuck home. While it is still in place, we have to turn the handle for every ounce of what it is worth! Our campaign for fairness and equality can start at our shores, but must equally be waged in the Caribbean, but more importantly in London. So I end at the point on which I began, forget Todd, we have to carry the fight to Bellingham, Duncan and the steps of Number 10 Downing Street. Nothing an Englishman hates more than being embarrassed, particularly on his door steps! • Royal Robinson was a former Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance and Health in the Progressive National Party (PNP) Administration.
Local CXC Programme gets another $20,000 from Scotiabank Scotiabank TCI followed up on its three-year commitment to fund the local leg of the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Programme that would enable fourth and fifth form high school students to prepare for their Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) Exams. Managing Director for the Cherokee Road, Providenciales Scotiabank branch, Cecil Arnold, made the second tranche of donation - the sum of $20,800 - on Thursday, June 14, to representatives from the Education Department at his office. The donation would offset the cost for students to access the CXC website Cecil Arnold (left), Managing Director for the Cherokee Road Scotiabank branch, presents the cheque where they are able to practice on past for $20,800 to Louise Garland (second left), Education Officer in Charge of Government Schools and papers and on other materials aimed at Robert Newman, the local CXC Registrar. Sharing in the moment is Patricia Adams, Sr. Business getting them ready for their Support Manager at the bank’s branch. examinations. “Last year when we made the first website to help them prepare for the gesture by the banking institution. donation of $20,000, we said that we are CXC Exams.” “On behalf of the Ministry of committed for three years,” Arnold said. Robert Newman, the local CXC Education and the Education “So this morning we are making another Registrar, who gave the response on Department, I just want to thank donation, to ensure that fourth and fifth behalf of the Education Department, said Scotiabank for this contribution, and I form kids in the Turks and Caicos Islands that the CXC students stand to benefit know it would go a long way in assisting will have access again to the online greatly again this year from the kind students in their preparation for the
CSEC Examinations…Thanks very much,” Newman said. The Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination is offered in January for re-sit and private candidates and in May/June for in-school candidates and private candidates. CSEC subjects are examined for certification at the General and Technical Proficiencies. The General and Technical Proficiencies provide students with the foundation for further studies and entry to the workplace. The Council now offers a total of 33 subjects, that is, 28 subjects at General Proficiency and 5 at Technical Proficiency. The occasion was also used to grant former Clement Howell High student, Saskia Telfort, a four-year scholarship valued at CAD$100,000 to York University. The scholarship will cover full tuition, lodging, books and her summer employment at Scotiabank in the TCI. On completion of her studies, Telfort will be employed by Scotiabank, according to Arnold.
Page 16
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
LOCAL NEWS
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
Healing Water’s Ministry donates $8500 to fight Cancer in the TCI The Music Ministries Department of the Healing Water’s Ministries presented the proceeds from its first all-charity fundraiser, A Touch Of Purple 2012, under the theme “Honoring the Greatest Commandments”, on Friday June 15th 2012 On hand at the small ceremony was Snr. Pastor Wayde Coleby, Representatives of the National Cancer Society and The TCI Cancer Foundation, The Music Ministries department and organizing committee and the media. Two checks of over EIGHT THOUSAND DOLLARS ($8500) were presented to the cancer establishments. The committee is asking all outstanding pledges contact the National Cancer Society directly on 231-4374. Head of Music Ministries Elery James also took this time to unveil the upcoming charity-fundraiser
Elery James introduces the upcoming fundraiser for Diabetes & Kidney Foundations
RNC
“Beyond the Blue” – An all Blue event under the theme “Exercising Faith and Giving Thanks”. This event intends to raise 10K for the Turks & Caicos Kidney Foundation and the Turks & Caicos Diabetes Foundation. To be held in August 2012 The organizing committee will like to publicly acknowledge and thank the following for their contributions that enabled us to achieve such great success. 1. The SUN Newspaper 2. Business Solutions 3. Kishco 4. Got U Covered 5. Islandcom 6. LIME 7. Kevin’s Quality Cleaning 8. SmithCo 9. PTV
Head of Music Ministry Elery James and Pastor Coleby Present's check to Drexel and Kenya Porter for National Cancer Society
Members of “A Touch of Purple” Organizing committee
1 Bartenter SEEKS
Salary $200.00 per week Mon-Sat
Contact: 241-6307
10. WIV 11. Radio Turks & Caicos 12. 98.9FM 13. 90.5 14. 103.3 15. 92.5 16. Subtronics Sound & Lights 17. Leyshan Sounds 18. Mr. Shuan Malcolm 19. JS Johnson Insurance and Brokers 20. Caicos Express 21. Mrs. Thelma Pratt 22. Gilley’s Café 23. Air & Sea 24. Platinum Promotions … And all those who participated, gave and pledged not mentioned above.
Head of Music Ministry Elery James and Pastor Coleby Present's check to Drexel and Kenya Porter for TCI Cancer foundation
Representatives of the cancer society brings remarks
Tshora Thomas publicly thanks sponsor and partners
UNCLE DOUGH’S BAR
SEEKS 1 WAITRESS Salary $150 per week 6 days per week Contact: 244-8463
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Page 17
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
LOCAL NEWS
Washington Misick not ruling out political run Former Chief Minister Washington Misick is not ruling out throwing his hat into the political ring, although he has not made up his mind one way or the other. One of the current topical political talking points is that Misick, who is affectionately called ‘Washy’, could go for a North Caicos seat, but he may have to contend with media practitioner Devon Williams, who has signaled his intentions to contest a seat on that island on a Progressive National Party (PNP) ticket. North Caicos currently has two seats, but it is not clear if that number would remain intact after the electoral boundaries are drawn. “I haven’t told anybody that I would be running. I haven’t even made up my mind yet on whether I am going to be a contender in this election. Nothing is off the table, but certainly, I haven’t got to that point yet in making a decision. That is the way I do business, I have to think seriously
about my decisions, I am not going to be forced into a decision prematurely,” Misick asserted. Misick said that he had been approached by people all over the country, even before the PNP had its convention earlier this month, to contest the leadership of the party, but said that decisions like those do not come overnight, pointing out that he would have to properly consider such decisions, so that they would be made in the best interest of his family, the party and the Turks and Caicos Islands. He told that The SUN that, even while he contemplated his decision whether or not to enter the political blocks, he would be making himself available to work for the party, which he once led. “I am a team player, meaning that making myself available is purely sort of if, or as needed basis. I have spent 16 years in active politics and I have a lot to offer, but by the same token, so do other people. I don’t want to be
Senior Technician
(ACTIVATING, DESIGNING, SPLICING, ENGINEERING & TROUBLING SHOOTING)
Primary objectives of the Job Duties: Utilize Computer Aided Design software to design plant extension and system rebuilds/upgrade projects. Prepare cost estimates for minor and major plant extensions. Activate and trouble shoot nodes, trouble shoot and correct internet system problems, splice and maintain the Fiber Optic system when necessary. Act as the company’s primary liaison with Residential, Commercial and Multi Dwelling Unit construction developers. Roles and Responsibilities: • Understand and follow all company safety standard and practices including but not limited to: vehicles safety, proper placement of traffic signs and cones. Understand and follows accident reporting procedures. Understand and follows applicable Electric Safety Code rules and regulations • Have the ability to troubleshoot and maintain head-end equipment (fiber optic lasers, fiber optic splitters, modulators and RF combination network). • Supervise and train field technicians • Have the ability to read and interpret, organize, update and maintain complete set(s) of system prints • Related to repairs to optimize system faults when necessary. • Utilize Signal Level Dsam-3600b meters w/voip/Web Browser and path track field view • Must be willing and able to handle special projects • Perform all job functions with the appropriate safety measures • Must be capable of carrying heavy equipment and climbing 32ft ladders • Must be able to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays • Have a valid driver’s license and the ability to operate large vehicles in a safe manner • Liaise with Express High speed internet-TCT to troubleshoot internet problems • Inspect, test and repair cable and fiber equipment at WIV various locations.
rushed into anything,” Misick reiterated. Asked where would be his choice of constituency if he were to make a decision to reenter the political arena, Misick said: “As I said, I am a team player. If I do decide to throw my hat in the ring, I would leave that decision up to the party, because I am not one of these people who are afraid of running in a particular place because of being afraid that I may lose. That is not my primary motivation, and apart from that, I am extremely busy, so that’s a decision that I would have to make because I believe in a total commitment to anything I do,” Misick said. The Interim Administration has announced November 9, this year as the election date. But in order for elections to be held, a number of ordinances have to be passed into law. They include the Conduct Ordinance – which will govern how political parties behave while on the campaign trail; the
Former Chief Minister Washington Misick
Boundaries Ordinance - that would reduce the number of constituencies from 15 to 10 and create five at large seats, where the entire country vote; the Electoral Boundaries Commission; and also the Campaign Finance Ordinance. While the parties may have a clear picture of the candidates that they want to field for the at large seats, they would not be able to finalize candidates for the constituency seats since the new boundaries have not been created.
• Verify that repairs are made to the satisfaction of the customers’ and meet company’s standards. • Determine the serviceability of residences deemed not serviceable according to the company’s billing database. Communicate the status of serviceability to the customer service department. • Prepare costs estimates if construction is necessary to service a residence or commercial establishment • Responsible for the coordination of design information exchange and timeliness of construction activities between WIV and developers to ensure construction projects are designed and completed within a timely manner and within established cost guidelines. • Prepare bill of materials for supplies and materials required for construction related projects • Communicate with and assist field technicians with revisions to strand and design maps of existing cable facilities • Assist with the upkeep required for the Satellite farm • Drive company vehicle and ensure vehicle is properly maintained • Perform other duties in keeping with the position Qualifications and requirements: Education: BSc in Electronics or Mechanical Engineering or equivalent approved training courses in electronics Experience: Five years experience related experience • Must have experience in general drafting and the ability to use tools, Instruments, and materials normally used in such activities. • Must have extensive knowledge of equipment characteristics, capabilities and limitations. Must have the ability to make sketched diagrams accurately.
Skills and workings conditions • Excellent communications skills with external and internal customers • Must be committed to providing exceptional customers service (both external and internal) at all times. Have the Ability to keep to schedule with minimum supervision. • Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where on limited to standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral diagram, or schedule form. • Proficient in CAD Software and preparation of engineering design and costs estimates for new build, rebuild and upgrade projects. Salary: $35, 000.00 - $40,000.00 per annum Plus additional benefits Contact: TCT by Express High Speed Internet P.O. Box 679 Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands administrator@wiv.tc or fax 946-4866 No telephone calls please
Page 18
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
LOCAL NEWS
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
TCI students failing science subjects BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
There is growing concern that Turks and Caicos Islands students are failing at science subjects, and the educators are calling for measures to tackle the souring problem. Educators attending the Fortis TCI launch of the Summer Employment and Internship Programme on Friday, June 15, at the light and power company’s corporate office along Leeward Highway in Providenciales, expressed concern that students were changing courses that contain the sciences in mid stream because those subjects have proven to be too much for them. Wilda Smith, Lecturer in Primary Education, and Language and Communication at the TCI Community College, told the gathering that students were afraid of the book work aspect of the sciences, but prefer the practical. “They just actually want to do the hands-on; they want to be able to fix things. They are interested in the practical, and they don’t accept the fact that there is a theory that comes with it. They run in the other direction when the sciences are introduced to them. “Some of the stories that the students would tell us why they don’t
Wilda Smith, Lecturer in Primary Education, and Language and Communication at the TCI Community College
want to do science subjects are: ‘I hear Physics is very hard’, ‘Electronics is hard because of the Math involved’, and that kind of thing. They want to be able to fix things but they don’t really want to take the time to find out, and they don’t understand the application of a number of things that they learn, so they think it is a waste of time sometimes,” Smith revealed. Smith said that a number of the students listen to their pairs more than how they would adhere to their lecturers. She said many of them, who said science subjects were hard, never tried it but were told by their friends of the
IMMEDIATE OPENING
COOK -D’TOURANT
Requirements: • Must have previously worked as a cook d’tourant for a minimum 3 years in a luxury resort • Demonstrate understanding of the technical culinary skills for assigned area (all kitchen work stations.) • Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience • Experience with, and are comfortable preparing a variety of different cuisines in a fine dining environment • Understand the importance of consistency • Knowledge of food preparation techniques and health/safety requirements • Must be able to work all days and shifts Duties Include: • Prepares all food items, sauces, soups and hot entrees in accordance with recipes, menus, portions and presentation specifications • Coordinates completion of menu items with server • Sets up breakfast, lunch and/or dinner workstations. • Produces all menu items ensuring the right quantity and highest standards of quality • Working the floor during special events • Rotate all foods and correctly fill out production charts
PASTRY CHEF
Requirements: • Must have previously worked as a pastry chef for a minimum of 5 years in a luxury Resort
challenges involved, and so they refuse to attempt the subjects. “Students would come to me and say, ‘if I am going to be an electrician, then why do I have to do English?’; ‘if I am going to be an architect, why do I have to do this course’? And I say to them all the time,’ You are an architect; you design a building, you have to present it to your client, so you would have to be able to, at least, speak in public’. “They ask me also why do they have to speak in public and why do they have to dress the part. Once you are able to explain that to them, they kind of accepted, but they shy away from the Math and other such subjects,” Smith said. In the meantime, Reinford, Principal for the Maranatha High School, said that the students’ inability to tackle science subjects was not the fault of high schools, but at the primary level, while pointing to the comments by GSAT students that Math Paper Two proved to be their toughest subject. “It is not a high school problem. The problem is from primary school because even if you listen to the children who finished GSAT, their major complaint is that Math Paper Two is the most difficult paper. Students would score 80-90 on paper one, but on paper two they are failing. So it is a primary school issue that needs to be addressed there. “We do offer the science subject
at the high school level but the students do not have the background. We still have a few of them in the high school who do well, but we need more persons, more broad-bases science programme and Math programme in the primary schools,” Trail said. In the meantime, Sylvie Wigglesworth, Principal for the British West Indies Collegiate, said the school did not have such problem since it offered such subjects at the advance level. “I do not have this concern, we offer advance level, and quite a few of our students are doing advance level Mathematics and Physics. It is very hard, but it is something that they have chosen. We have two students in the A Level Programme doing a two week work placement at Fortis, and they both study Math and Physics, so we don’t have that problem,” Wigglesworth said. The Fortis Student Summer Employment and Internship Programme is design to shore up the science interest among students in the TCI. The programme is divided into two segments – the Students Internship Programme ( SIP), which is geared towards senior high school and community college children, and the Student Summer Employment Programme – which caters to university students. The SIP will last for two weeks, while the Students Summer Employment will last for two months.
• Demonstrate understanding of the technical skills for assigned area (all kitchen work stations) • Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience • Must have previously worked as a pastry chef for a minimum 3 years in a luxury resort • Experience with, and are comfortable preparing a variety of different pastries in a fine dining environment • Understand the importance of consistency • Knowledge of food preparation techniques and health/safety requirements • Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties include: • Assists in creating and developing dishes for the pastry department • Ensures the highest quality of product within cost constraints by participating in the preparation of baked goods, pastries, desserts, ice carvings and show pieces • Assists in creating daily specials and signature desserts • Assist in producing the production of all pastry items, ensuring the right quantity and the highest standards of quality • Maintenance of pastry equipment • Requisition food with necessary approvals according to policy
LINE COOK
Requirements: • Must have previously worked as a line cook for a minimum of 1 year in similar operation pepa • Must be able to "prep" food products, using standardized food preparation techniques and learn menus, recipes, preparation and presentation • Acceptable knife skills • Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties Include: • Prepare all orders turned in by wait-staff using Resort’s standard recipes with focus on consistency while ensuring all orders are cooked quickly and according to order • Maintain the work area, including all counter tops, utensils, equipment, and refrigeration in a clean and sanitary condition All interested applicants should submit an updated resume to Regent Palms, Human Resources Department or by emailing marjorie.dorsett@regenthotels.com no later Friday, June 29, 2012.
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
LIME is proud of the students who sat the Grade Six Achievement Test and the company knows that the investment in the GoGSAT online program assisted many in their preparation for the examinations. General Manager of LIME TCI, Mr. Drexwell Seymour said, “LIME began this partnership in 2008 with the Education Department and GoGSAT to provide access to all students who would sit GSAT in the Turks & Caicos Islands.” He continued, “LIME wanted to provide an avenue for scholarships for students as they entered secondary school since nothing was in place for that age level and the company’s partnership with the rewards served as an incentive for students to aim for excellence.” Director of Education, Mr. Edgar Howell has spoken about the positive impact that the GoGSAT’s online program has had on the performance of students who sat GSAT. This year’s top student Jyles Javier came from Ona Glinton Primary School and Alan Joy of Oseta Jolly Primary School captured the spot as top male and top student at Oseta Jolly Primary School. Both students have qualified for the LIME’s Scholarship / Grant Program for 2012/2013. There are currently 12 students on LIME’s scholarships or grants. They are Aaron Lightbourne, Gabrielle Williams and Leslyn Nelson – Year 1; Leroy Penn, Natalia Williams and Marvin Jennings Jr – Year 2; Jonbonae Chung, Sasha Arthur and Modlin Orange – Year 3; Julianna McDonald, Renaud Brown and Kevaughn Brown – Year 4. Six of the ten students in the top 10 national performers at GSAT came from the LIME adopted schools Ona Glinton who captured spots 1, 4, and 7 and Oseta Jolly Primary who captured spots 2, 6 and 8.
Page 19
LOCAL NEWS
LIME celebrates the success of GSAT student Investment that keeps on giving
Top student Jyles Javier from Ona Glinton Primary School
Top boy Alan Joy of Oseta Jolly Primary School
Team LIME applauds the students and the teachers and parents who continue to work tirelessly with their children. The company welcomes Jyles and Alan to the LIME Scholarship family. LIME – Partnership in Education = Success for all!.
Maranatha High School A Seventh-day Adventist Institution
Is seeking to employ a CLEANER for September 3, 2012. Suitable candidate: • Should be mature and reliable • preferably a Seventh-day Adventist Duties will include general cleaning of classrooms and other areas within the school. Interested individuals should send application to: The Principal Maranatha High School P.O., Box 825 Providenciales Email: contact@maranathahigh.com
WESLEY METHODIST SCHOOL
Applications for vacancies which exist at the Wesley Methodist Primary/High School for the following positions. (1) Secondary Education Teachers (2) Primary School Education Teachers Applicants must possess a degree and a teachers’ diploma from a recognized institution and a minimum of five years teaching experience. Email vitae to Wesleyschool@tciway.tc
Students from Oseta Jolly Primary
Students from Ona Glinton Primary
PARALEGALS
Griffiths & Partners are looking for recent law graduates to work as Paralegal Assistants for a 12 month period. Responsibilities: • Assisting attorneys in legal research in a variety of work including judicial review and commercial litigation. • Assisting in the drafting of pleadings, statements and other documents for Court cases. • Obtaining, compiling and analyzing records for discovery including incoming discovery documents. • Pre-trial preparation and other trial management assistance. Job Qualifications: • Candidates should have a law degree in LLB or post-graduate legal qualification of First or Upper Second Class from a leading University including qualification in commercial and company law. • Computer proficiency with office software including MS Office. Job Experience: • Experience as a Paralegal including complex commercial litigation. • Experience of operation, practices and procedures of a law office engaged in civil and commercial litigation. • Experience of court and tribunal filing procedures. • Demonstrated ability to manage a large workload including completing multiple tasks to deadlines. • Must be proactive and able to work both independently and with a professional team. Closing date for application: 5th July2012 Apply with Curriculum Vitae to: Griffiths & Partners P.O. Box 143 Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Email: recruitment@griffithsandpartneres.com Fax: 649-941-8251
Page 20
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Page 21
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
5 .
w
Page 22
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
Page 23
Page 24
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
Page 25
Page 26
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
Page 27
Page 28
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Page 29
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
Prince Charles' Charity gets big donation from Black Eyed Peas' will.i.am Prince Charles' charity just went boom, boom, pow! Black Eyed Peas beatmaster will.i.am has donated a sizeable chunk o' cash to the Prince's Trust, a youthempowerment initiative set up by the Prince of Wales in 1976 to provide education and training services to young Brits in need. And judging by the Grammy winner's very generous gift, which the Trust announced on its website today, those youths will benefit quite handsomely for a long time to come. So just how much did will.i.am dole out? That would be a cool $780,000. The organization announced that will.i.am made the donation through his own i.am angel Foundation after personally meeting the prince at Clarence House last month.
The musician's certainly been getting chummy with them royals: If you'll recall, he performed at a concert earlier this month celebrating Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. "Working with The Prince's Trust, I am joining the mission to help transform the lives of disadvantaged young people living in underprivileged neighborhoods in the U.K.," will.i.am said in a statement through the Trust. "I grew up in East Los Angeles, one of the most underserved and tough neighborhoods in America. My life could have turned out very differently if it were not for the support and encouragement provided by my single working Mum, my uncles and my teachers who encouraged me to dream, and to pursue my goal of getting into the music business."
Rihanna to star in animated flick 'Happy Smekday!' Rihanna will reportedly appear alongside Big Bang Theory's Jim Parsons... Rihanna may have fought some bad aliensin Battleship, but now it seems she'll be tackling a much friendlier extraterrestrial life form in new DreamWorks animated flick,Happy Smekday! The Bajan babe is reportedly being lined up to star alongside Big Bang Theory actor Jim Parsons in the film, which is based on Adam Rex's book The True Meaning of Smekday. It follows an alien race who come to Earth to hide away from their enemies. When one of the aliens accidentally spills the beans about their hideout to the bad guys, he must go on the run with a teenage girl. The twosome then goes on a road trip through a dystopian America, learning about humanity Pop star Rihanna along the way. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the film is slated for a 2014 release. Antz and Over the Hedge director Tim Johnson will helm the DreamWorks Animation project, with Get Smart screenwriters Tom J. Astle and Matt Ember penning the script. Following her debut in Battleship, roles have been steadily coming RiRi's way with the 24-year old recently telling MTV News: "I got a few scripts, actually, a lot of incredible roles. "Some of which I felt were a little too big for me, being that I never did a movie. So I wanted to really get my feet wet, try it, see what it was like and know how I wanted to move from there. I'm really glad 'Battleship' turned out to be the first one." She was also previously spotted on the set of End of the World, confirming her long-rumoured cameo in the Seth Rogen comedy. Rihanna has also shot down chatter that she would play Whitney Houston in a biopic of her life, with her rep recently denying reports that she would star in the next Fast and The Furious movie.
Walking with my head down Counting every step Hoping that the next one Brings me closer to the man I was Cause I was way better Maybe its because We were together [Refrain] I said I'm looking for myself And I still can't find me That's why I'm looking for myself Who am I? Someone remind me I'm looking for myself All my life I'm searching I said I'm looking for myself And somehow I ran right into You (looking for myself) Youuuu (I, I I, I I I) Youuuu (looking for myself) And somehow I ran right into you Escaping on the tightrope Trying not to fall If I don't keep my balance I know, I will lose it all I should have known better And it's all my fault That we're not together I said I'm looking for myself And I still can't find me That's why I'm looking for myself Who am I? Someone remind me I'm looking for myself All my life I'm searching I said I'm looking for myself And somehow I ran right into You (looking for myself)
Youuuu (I, I I, I I I) Youuuu (looking for myself) And somehow I ran right into you, girl I was on a journey, Tryin to figure out who I really was Then I realized that, When you're not here, Half of me is gone So in order for me to find me, I had to find you You know? (youuuu) And I got a funny feeling that You won't know who you are And unless you find me It's like... You look in the mirror And you see the person that you truely love I said I'm looking for myself And I still can't find me That's why I'm looking for myself Who am I? Someone remind me I'm looking for myself All my life I'm searching I said I'm looking for myself And somehow I ran right into You (looking for myself) You (I, I I, I I I) Youuuu (looking for myself) And somehow I ran right into you Heey, looking for myself (I I, I I, I I I) And somehow I ran right into youu
Page 30
FUN and GAMES
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
Page 31
FUN and GAMES
Page 32
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
HIGHLIGHTS
• Portia not aware PNP got OLINT money • Dudus sentenced to 23 years • Haitians die as boat sinks in the Bahamas
e Bahamas Prime Minister Christie stands firm against Cable and Wireless Communications Prime Minister Perry Christie said a mass disruption in communications services in the country on Monday only proved why the deal to sell the majority interest of the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) to Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC) should not have happened. BTC suffered a system-wide meltdown, which affected more than 300,000 mobile, landline and broadband customers. Company officials reported that a power outage knocked out BTC's network management center on Poinciana Drive, and a full investigation into the blackout has been launched. BTC CEO Geoff Houston on Monday apologized for the blackout and noted that it was not a good day for BTC. Christie, who has pledged to regain the majority interest in BTC for Bahamians, met with CWC CEO Tony Rice on Monday during the outage. The Ingraham administration sold a 51 percent stake in BTC to Cable and Wireless last year. Christie described his meeting with Rice as a very private and cordial
one where CWC took its position and the government reaffirmed its position "to faithfully pursue by all lawful means the obtainment of the majority interest in the company." "It so happened that whilst we were talking the greatest collapse that I'm aware of ever of communications services (in The Bahamas) took place for which we are expecting a report, and (it) reminded us of all the things we said and why we ought not to have agreed with Cable and Wireless," Christie said. "But in any event we had a good discussion." Christie said Monday's meeting, which lasted an hour, was the first of many. He pointed out that both CWC and the government are discussing their respective positions on BTC and working on a possible conclusion in a reasonable timeframe. "They (CWC) are probably the most experienced communications company in the world," Christie said. "So they know governments, they would have seen and noted that we took a position on the sale of the majority interest of BTC. "They would have seen us speak to that during the campaign and they would have seen us ask the Bahamian
people to vote for us on that basis. So they do understand the moral implications of that. "What I said to them was that whatever we do we're not going to disserve the operations or even the value of the company by any kind of acrimonious discussion and debate. "So we had a very, very cordial meeting and discussion where we agreed to go back and set up a process and then I asked them to give me a full report on BTC's operations to date, including explanations for what took place." However, if there is a deal the prime minister said he does not expect employees to be affected. "We've just had a first discussion; everyone understands the commitment of the government," Christie said. "We understand the position of Cable and Wireless. CWC would wish to persuade us not to seek that position, not to stay with that position. "We understand that, but this is what negotiations with partners are for. After all we have a partnership — the country with CWC — with respect to the ownership. "I expect that whatever happens, it will be done in the right way...and will
Bahamas Prime Minister Perry Christie
not affect anyone's employment or the value of the company." Former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham, who approved the deal in April 2011, recently suggested the sale was irreversible. Christie disagreed. "We shall see, that's how I respond to that, we shall see,"?he said. "Remember Mr. Ingraham said the PLP couldn't beat him and most certainly Perry Christie couldn't and we saw."
Jamaica urges financial institutions to prepare for new US law KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s Minister of Finance and Planning, Dr Peter Phillips, has urged local and regional financial institutions to prepare for the implementation of the United States Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA), which has implications for these entities. “We are still at an early stage in the implementation of FATCA. My impression is that the final regulatory arrangements are still not clear, even in the mind of the US authorities, but nevertheless, we understand the asymmetries of power and influence that exist, and I think it is important that we be prepared here,” Phillips told a seminar on FATCA in the capital, Kingston, on Tuesday. FATCA, which was enacted in 2010 by the US government as part of provisions under the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act, “is an important development in efforts by the US to combat tax evasion by US taxpayers with
investments in offshore accounts,” the statement said. It said the Act is of “particular significance to the financial services sector in Jamaica and elsewhere in the region, as it places an obligation on foreign or non-US financial institutions to report to the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) information about financial accounts held by US taxpayers, including entities in which the US taxpayer holds a significant ownership interest.” Phillips stated that his government would shortly be putting several measures in place to help institutions in Kingston prepare for FATCA’s implementation in 2013. He said this will include the Bank of Jamaica carrying out a risk assessment on its licensees to determine the state of readiness of these entities and their systems. “We will refer the available materials on FATCA to the Attorney-
General’s Chambers for their advice as to the implications of the FATCA regime under Jamaican law,” the finance minister said. “In particular, we will need to minimise the legal risks faced by our financial institutions,” he added. Phillips said he is aware that US authorities are in discussion with the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Spain and other countries, with a view to entering into reciprocal bilateral arrangements with respect to the FATCA reporting regime, and that the Portia Simpson Miller administration will be exploring the possibilities of entering into such an agreement. “If this proves possible, the financial entities will be relieved of some liabilities, particularly if reporting is done through the local central authorities who would be empowered to receive this information,” he said. Phillips said it is not known at
present what would be the liability or responsibilities of the government under any such agreement, but said they will continue to closely monitor developments and continue dialogue with US authorities. Phillips further noted the Ministry of Finance will continue to work closely with local financial institutions, so that they will not be at a disadvantage when FATCA is implemented next year. “Even as we make our efforts, whether on the basis of bilateral interventions with the United States, or in partnership with other Caribbean countries, we will be strenuously seeking to ensure that there is no unfair advantage faced by Jamaican financial institutions,” he said. “But, equally, the message must be that we are facing an increasingly stringent global regime of tax compliance, and we need to put our house in order in this regard,” he added.
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
Page 33
CARIBBEAN NEWS
Opposition files motion of noconfidence against Montserrat Premier BRADES, Montserrat – Opposition Leader Donaldson Romeo has filed a motion of no confidence in the government of Premier Reuben Meade accusing him of engaging in several recent decisions that may have negative implications for the political and economic future of the British Overseas Territory. The motion is to be debated when the Legislative Council meets on June 26.“Recent controversial import tariff increases, the MoU signed with the FCO (Foreign and Commonwealth Office) and the Premier’s May 30th declaration in Ecuador that Montserrat is no longer a colonised country all reflect a pattern of government decisions made behind closed doors, without adequate consultation with the people who have to live with the results of such decisions,” Romeo said. He said that Premier Meade’s actions were counter to his party’s 2009 election manifesto which “promised to move beyond “one-
Montserrat Premier Reuben Meade
manism,” and would facilitate “community level consultations as the preferred means of involving the citizens in decision-making and governance on all matters affecting their lives.”
Marijuana found hidden in Jamaican oranges at supermarkets in Barbados BRIDGETOWN – Barbados police have discovered marijuana hidden in oranges imported from Jamaica at four supermarkets, the Sunday Sun newspaper reported, quoting a senior police official. It said the drugs were worth 800,000 Barbados dollars (400,000 US dollars) on the street. So far, no arrests have been reported in connection with the find and the paper said Barbados police were working with Jamaican authorities to probe the drug shipment. The paper said the head of the Royal Barbados Police Force Drug Squad, Superintendent Grafton Phillips, confirmed that 41 taped packages of marijuana were discovered Saturday at four stores in shipments of Jamaican oranges. The initial discovery of 17 packages of what appeared to be compressed marijuana in 17 cases of oranges at one rural supermarket prompted a search of a chain of stores that netted the drugs. “We discovered that some of the shipments had already gone out to other establishments and we carred out searches at all of them. As a result we found packages at three other establishments,” Phillips told the Sun. “We are conducting further investigations on the matter and we would be working with our counterparts in Jamaica.” The Sun said it was told by a source that the shipments were made from a Bridgetown area distribution company. The drugs are believed to have been delivered to the supermarkets late Friday, it added.
Romeo also challenged the June 1 introduction of a new Customs Tariff which he said is “riddled with problems that need to be fixed, such as the rises in tax on medicines like Insulin for diabetics and antibiotics for people with bacterial infections”. The revised tariff abolished the service tax, leaving only duty and a consumption tax on over 6000 items. The most commonly used items by the lower income groups were to attract a lower banding while luxury items such as some electronic goods attracted a higher banding, according to a release from the Ministry of Finance. But the Opposition Leader contends “chicken, school exercise books and cement are necessities, not luxuries.” Romeo has also taken issue with Premier Meade’s May 30th statement to the United Nations Committee on Decolonisation, which he said had been made without prior consultation with the elected members of the
Legislative Council and the United Kingdom. But Governor Adrian Davis said that London does not have to authorise statements made by the Montserrat government and that the position of the United Kingdom on self determination is that it will “respect the rights of the people in any Overseas Territory as expressed in a referendum. “Premier Meade told the UN group that the people of Montserrat see themselves as part of the UK family by choice and recommended that the island be removed from their “list of non self governing countries, within their Decolonisation discussions. I am also certain that the UK supports our stance,” Davis said. Romeo said he is urging “the public to support the Opposition when it raises these and related concerns through a motion of no confidence” at the next sitting of the Legislative Assembly scheduled for June 26.
King fires back as St. Lucia PM Kenny Anthony announces a probe into former government CASTRIES, St Lucia – The 2007-2011 administration. He said Prime Minister on-going verbal tussle Anthony also needs to give a between St Lucia’s former full account to St Lucians on leader Stephenson King the ‘Grynberg Affair’ and and his successor, Dr end “marked silence and Kenny Anthony took disdain” on the issue. another turn on Monday as In March, ColoradoKing accused Anthony of based oil developer Jack “intimidation” in Grynberg filed a lawsuit announcing a probe into before the International the previous government Court of Justice complaining for misconduct. that Anthony’s previous twoWhile he appeared to term government had welcome the probe, King breached their a 12-year-old told reporters here he will contract to explore St Lucia’s not be side-tracked by seabed for oil, a deal that the Anthony’s “intimidation” Stephenson King 1997-2006 administration of him and his opposition never disclosed. United Workers Party (UWP). Besides seeking damages in excess of 200 Opposition Leader King said his UWP has million US dollars, Grynberg has demanded “absolutely no reservation about the conduct that Castries pay all legal costs. of any investigations and would like to “Dr Anthony should explain why he has encourage the completion and dissemination of refused to address the nation to explain his role the findings to the public as soon as possible. in this scandal,” King said. “It is clear that such declarations are only The opposition leader again raised calculated to intimidate and detract from the allegations of partisan favouritism similar to issues of bigger concern to the people of St recent charges of victimisation of workers for Lucia at this time.” the Castries City Council that prompted him to Prime Minister Anthony said his seven- announce an end to bipartisan consultation. month-old government is actively pursuing He accused the governing St Lucia Labour investigations into the King administration, Party (SLP) of granting promotions and particularly its use of Taiwan government lucrative positions in the civil service to close donations. relatives of government ministers – senior jobs Anthony said his offer of an ‘olive branch’ for which, he said, some were not qualified. and bipartisanship to the UWP following his “The leader of the opposition and Saint November 2011 general election victory, it did Lucians await with great anticipation full not apply to any past discretions, illegalities or disclosure from Dr Anthony and his misdeeds on the part of the former government on the promised investigation into government. the affairs of the former administration, But King called on his successor to extend appointments to senior positions within the his efforts at disclosure and transparency public service by favouritism and the troubling beyond the limitation of investigations into his Grynberg Scandal,” King told reporters.
Page 34
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
CARIBBEAN NEWS
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
Stanford former chief investment officer in plea deal with US HOUSTON, Texas – A week after he was jailed for life, Allen Stanford’s former chief investment officer has agreed to plead guilty and serve three years in prison for her role in Stanford’s seven-billion-US-dollar Ponzi scheme involving Antiguabased Stanford International Bank (SIB), according to reports here. Laura Pendergest Holt, 38, will reportedly plead guilty to a single charge of obstructing investigators. She faces trial in September on charges related to those resulting in Stanford’s June 14 sentence of 110 years in prison. US prosecutors had requested a maximum sentence of 230 years against Stanford, based on investors’
losses on bogus certificates of deposit sold by SIB. Pendergest Holt is scheduled to appear here in a US Federal District Court to formally face the charges, according to court records. The former investment chief had told investors and the firm’s financial advisers that she oversaw a stable of international money managers who were responsible for the bulk of the SIB’s assets, according to court documents. Testimony during Stanford’s trial revealed that Pendergest Holt might have had authority over as little as 20 per cent of the bank’s assets. In June 2009, prosecutors charged Pendergest Holt and Stanford
St. Lucia PM Kenny Anthony hails new US immigration policy CASTRIES, St Lucia – Incoming Chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), St Lucia’s Prime Minister Kenny Anthony, has welcomed the new immigration policy announced by United States President Barack Obama last week, saying that it will benefit people from this region. The US President said that the department Homeland Security will stop deportations and grant work permits for students who meet certain requirements. The policy change will apply to those who arrived in the US before turning 16, who have been in the country for at least five years and are under the age of 30. Prime Minister Anthony said the announcement by the US President will benefit a number of young people of Caribbean origin, and will also allow “the humanity” of President Obama to emerge. “He did say to us at a meeting in Columbia that this is a matter he had to deal with I am very happy that he has come up with a solution. “It’s not a total solution by any means but a partial one, for while he is dealing with a special brand of illegal immigrants, there is the wider issue of illegal immigrants remaining to be resolved,” Anthony said. However the Prime Minister described President Obama’s announcement as an important and major step, noting that not just Caribbean families but a large Hispanic population will also be affected. “It is debatable of course, whether it is coming too late because of the looming elections, but I notice that President Obama is now becoming more of a politician and less of a President. “For the last couple of years he invested in building his profile as a President so now that elections are looming, I think he is making some important steps, and they are the rights steps,” Dr. Anthony said. “It is no wonder that the Republicans are crying foul, they are suggesting it is political but I accept the fact that it has been long in the making,” he said. According to Dr. Anthony, policy formulation is a torturous affair because of having to deal with both the Senate and the House of Representatives, but he still feels that the new immigration policy represents a good move and a respite of sorts for the Caribbean
chief financial officer, James Davis, her boss and former lover, with conspiring to mislead investors. Stanford, 62, was convicted on March 6 by a US federal jury here of leading a massive fraud in which investors’ funds were used to pay above-market returns to earlier investors – a classic Ponzi scheme. Prosecutors accused Stanford of secretly borrowing more than two billion in depositors’ funds to finance a lavish lifestyle and several moneylosing enterprises, including two airlines and an international Twenty20 cricket tournament that bore his name. Stanford is appealing his conviction and sentence.
Laura Pendergest Holt
UK signs deal with Dominican Republic
Foreign Secretary William Hague and Carlos Morales Troncoso, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic signing a Memorandum of Understanding on Bilateral Co-operation between the United Kingdom and the Dominican Republic in London, 21 June 2012.
Foreign Secretary William Hague and Foreign Minister Carlos Morales Troncoso have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Bilateral Co-operation between the UK and the Dominican Republic. On 21 July, the Foreign Secretary and Minister of State Jeremy Browne met Carlos Morales Troncoso, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic. The MoU covers a number of areas including the promotion of trade and investment, co-ordination in the fight against illegal drug trafficking and working together to address the threat of climate change. This follows the meeting between the Foreign Secretary and the Foreign Minister in January 2012 at which they agreed to seek a Memorandum of Understanding as a way of symbolizing the growing bilateral relationship between the two countries. Speaking today, the Foreign Secretary said: "The Dominican Republic is an excellent trade and investment partner, we have a great relationship over security and this indicates our increasing engagement in the Latin-America and Caribbean region. It gives me great pleasure to sign this Memorandum of Understanding on Bilateral Cooperation with the Dominican Republic". The Dominican Republic, which is a neighbour of the Turks and Caicos Isands, is one of the fastest growing economies in Latin America. The UK is the fifth largest investor thanks to a small number of large, diverse investments in various sectors including manufacturing, power generation and tourism.
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
Page 35
HIGHLIGHTS • Norway prosecutors say man who killed 77 is insane • Poll says Romney closes in on Obama • Video shows Zimmerman's account of fatal fight
Suu Kyi makes historic address to U.K. parliament LONDON - Myanmar's opposition leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, warned Thursday that her country's people need Britain and other allies to act as watchdogs, and not cheerleaders, to ensure its rulers deliver on their promises of reform. Making an historic address in London to a joint session of both Houses of Parliament, Suu Kyi said Myanmar which she referred to by its British colonial name of Burma - would need sometimes critical support to fully embrace democracy after 49 years of military rule that ended only last year. "I am here in part to ask for practical help, help as a friend and an equal, in support of the reforms which can bring better lives, greater opportunities, to the people of Burma, who have been for so long deprived of their rights and their place in the world," Suu Kyi said in Parliament's 11th Century Westminster Hall. "My country today stands at the start of a journey towards, I hope, a better future. So many hills remain to be climbed, chasms to be bridged, obstacles to be breached," said Suu Kyi, who was
Aung San Suu Kyi cheered and given a standing ovation by British legislators. "Our own determination can get us so far. The support of the people of Britain and of peoples around the world can get us so much further." Suu Kyi is the only woman other than Queen Elizabeth II to deliver a speech to a joint session of Parliament at Westminster Hall, and follows dignitaries such as South African President Nelson Mandela, Pope Benedict XVI and U.S.
President Barack Obama. The honor is usually reserved only for heads of state. The, who spent 15 years under house arrest or imprisoned in Myanmar, is making her first overseas trip in 24 years. She has visited Switzerland, Norway and Ireland and is spending a week in Britain, where she previously studied and lived. As she was greeted by British Prime Minister David Cameron at his official 10 Downing Street residence, Suu Kyi said she remembered that her father, Myanmar independence leader Aung San, had been photographed outside the famous house, wrapped in a large British military-issue coat to protect against the cold. "I must say, not having left my tropical country for 24 years, there have been odd moments this week when I have thought of that coat myself," Suu Kyi told lawmakers. "I was photographed in the same place where my father was photographed and it was raining - very British." Britain is among Western nations which have suspended sanctions against Myanmar following President Thein Sein's moves toward political liberalization since he took office in 2011.
Bali bomber gets 20 years for deadly 2002 attack JAKARTA, Indonesia - An Indonesian militant was convicted of helping to build the massive car bomb used in the deadly 2002 Bali nightclub attacks and sentenced to 20 years in prison Thursday, concluding the trial for the case's last main defendant. Known as "Demolition Man," Umar Patek, 45, is a leading member of the al Qaeda-linked network Jemaah Islamiyah. He was found guilty of all charges by the West Jakarta District Court of violating the country's anti-terror law for his role in the Oct. 12, 2002, Bali resort island attacks that killed 202 people, including 88 Australians and seven Americans. The five-member judge panel concluded Patek played an important role in building the explosives used in the Bali bombings. He was also sentenced for his involvement in Jakarta church attacks on Christmas Eve in 2000 that killed 19. "The acts of the defendant have created many victims and caused deep suffering to the victims' families," the verdict said. Prosecutors had sought a life sentence for Patek, who was accused of illegal weapons possession, concealing terrorist acts, immigration violations and premeditated murder in the Bali bombings. Except for a few relatives, the courtroom was packed mostly by journalists. Patek's Filipino wife, Ruqayyah binti Husein Luceno, 28, was
sentenced in January to 27 months in jail for immigration violations. Patek, who was arrested last year in Pakistan in the same northwestern town where Osama bin Laden was killed several months later, was the last key defendant to be tried in the attacks. He argued that he did not play a major part in building the car bomb, which was the biggest explosive used in the bombings. Instead, he said bomb-making masterminds Azahari bin Husin and Dulmatin were in charge of that job. Both have since died in police raids. Patek, whose real name is Hisyam bin Alizein, has apologized to the victims' families, Christians and to the government, saying he was not in favor of going through with the attack against partying tourists, but that he could not speak out against other senior members of the group. The mission was supposedly meant to avenge Western policies in the Palestinian territories, but Patek argued that he never saw the connection. The militant could have faced a maximum penalty of death by firing squad for the various terror-related and criminal charges. Clad in a white cotton robe and matching pants with his hair and beard dyed a coppery red, the defendant sat quietly for hours as the judges read out their 273-page ruling, which included testimony from Patek and more than 40 witnesses. Their verdict and sentencing was read at the end, session had stretched into evening hours.
Cameron said Thursday he had invited Thein Sein for talks in London, which follows a meeting between the two in Yangon in April. "There is a process of reform in Burma," Cameron said, as he held a news conference with Suu Kyi. "In order for that to succeed we have to work with the regime." Suu Kyi said she supported Cameron's decision to host Thein Sein in London, and urged the U.K. and others to act as a watchdog on Myanmar's reforms. "More than ever we need our friends to be watchdogs. You have to watch what is going on in Burma," she told Cameron. Suu Kyi, who also held talks with Prince Charles and his wife, Camilla, said she hoped Myanmar's parliament would one day enjoy the same circus-like atmosphere as the raucous weekly Prime Minister's Question Time session in Britain - when Cameron and his opponents trade noisy verbal blows. She was sworn in as a member of Myanmar's parliament in May, but said that so far she had found the tone "rather formal." "There is certainly no heckling. I would wish that over time perhaps we will reflect the liveliness and relative informality of Westminster," Suu Kyi said in her address.
Russia lashes out over stop of Syriabound ship MOSCOW - Russia's foreign minister lashed out at Britain on Thursday for pressuring a Russianoperated ship heading to Syria with a load of weapons to turn back, saying that Moscow won't abide by European Union sanctions against its Arab ally. Sergey Lavrov said a British insurer's decision to remove the ship's coverage reflected the "unreliability of the British insurance system." He also said the British government defied international law by asking the insurance company to act. "The EU sanctions aren't part of the international law," he said on nationally broadcast Ekho Moskvy radio. Britain has joined the United States and other countries in pressing Russia to halt arms shipments to Syrian President Bashar Assad's regime. Opposition groups say more than 14,000 people have been killed since the Syrian uprising began in March 2011. The U.K.-based insurer Standard Club said it removed insurance coverage for the ship owner when it became aware it was carrying munitions, a clear breach of its rules. The move forced the ship, the MV Alaed, to turn back toward Russia. Russia, along with China, has twice shielded Syria from proposed international sanctions over Assad's crackdown on protests. It also has continued to provide Damascus, its last remaining Mideast ally, with weapons.
Page 36
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
WORLD NEWS
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
Poll says Romney closes in on Obama WASHINGTON — Fighting a swell of economic anxiety, President Barack Obama has lost much of the narrow lead he held just a month ago over Mitt Romney and the two now are locked in a virtually even race for the White House, according to a new Associated Press-GfK poll. The survey also found a majority of Americans disapproving of how the Democratic president is handling a national economy that fewer people think is improving. Less than five months before the election, 47 percent say they will vote for the president and 44 percent for Romney, a difference that is not statistically significant. The poll also shows that Romney has recovered from a bruising Republican primary, with more of his supporters saying they are certain to vote for him now. The economy remains Obama's top liability. Only 3 out of 10 adults say the country is headed in the right direction and 55 percent disapprove of his handling of the economy, the highest level detected in AP-GfK polls this year. "I'm not going to vote for Obama," said Raymond Back, a 60-year-old manufacturing plant manager from
North Olmsted, Ohio, one of the most competitive states in this election. "It's just the wrong thing to do. I don't know what Romney is going to do, but this isn't the right way." Yet, in a measure of Romney's own vulnerabilities, even some voters who say they support Romney believe the president will still be re-elected. Of all adults polled, 56 percent believe Obama will win a second term. And despite three months of declining job creation that have left the public increasingly glum, Romney has not managed to seize the economic issue from the president, with registered voters split virtually evenly on whether Romney or Obama would do a better job improving it. The polling numbers come as no surprise to either camp. Both Romney and Obama advisers have anticipated a close contest that will be driven largely by economic conditions. The Obama camp is busy trying to define Romney, hoping it is reaching more independents like Doss Comer, 58, of Jacksonville, N.C., who said he would vote for Obama again, despite the lagging economy. "I think we are on the wrong
track," he said. "We're not getting anywhere. We're not growing. The unemployment rate just spiked up again." But, he added: "I don't trust Romney because of what he's doing. He's telling his business experience, that he was an investor in business. ... I don't think he has the right background any more than Obama." With his Republican nomination now ensured, Romney has succeeded in unifying the party behind him and in maintaining a singular focus on making the election a referendum on Obama's handling of the economy. Over time, polls that measure Obama's standing have reflected fluctuations in the economy, which has shown both strength and weakness since it began to recover from the recent recession. The new survey illustrates how an ideologically divided country and a stumbling recovery have driven the two men into a tight match. The poll results among voters who live in states decided by less than 10 percentage points in 2008 underscore Obama's challenge. Among those voters in the new poll, Romney has an advantage, a shift from last month when Obama held that edge.
Still, Obama's overall 49 percent approval rating is not unlike the approval ratings George W. Bush faced in June 2004 during his re-election campaign, when he and his Democratic challenger, John Kerry, were also locked in a dead heat. Besides weak job growth and still high unemployment, Obama is at the mercy of European countries struggling with a debt crisis that has already sent ripples across the Atlantic. Indicators released Thursday held bad news for hiring and for home sales, a day after the Federal Reserve downgraded its outlook for the economy. For all that, and with preferences for November in a virtual tie, a majority of people believe Obama will still be re-elected, a shift from an even split on the question seven months ago. In December, 21 percent of Republicans said they thought Obama would win re-election; that's risen to 31 percent now. And among independents, the share saying Obama will win has climbed from 49 percent to 60 percent. Among Democrats, it was 75 percent in both polls.
US House Speaker takes hard line on Attorney General Holder contempt vote WASHINGTON — House Speaker John Boehner demanded Thursday that the Obama administration give in and turn over documents related to a botched gun-tracking operation, insisting that's the only way to stop a House vote to hold the attorney general in contempt. Boehner took a hard line against the Obama administration and Attorney General Eric Holder despite a willingness by House Republicans and Holder to negotiate a settlement before the matter becomes a constitutional crisis. The president has invoked executive privilege, a legal principle used to avoid disclosure of internal presidential documents. While a confrontation between the legislative and executive branches of government would be an academic dispute to most voters, Boehner on Thursday injected a human element into the battle over documents related to Operation Fast and Furious. He said the family of slain border agent House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, defends the contempt of Brian Terry deserved answers about the guns that Congress vote against Attorney General Eric Holder during a news killed him. conference on Capitol Hill in Washington Two guns that were allowed to "walk" from Arizona to Mexico in the failed effort to track prosecution and to dismantle their networks. Gun-walking has long been barred by Justice weapons were found near Terry after he was killed. Department policy, but federal agents in Arizona "The Terry family deserves answers about why experimented with it in at least two investigations their son was killed as a result of an operation run by during the George W. Bush administration before Fast the United States government," Boehner told his and Furious. These experiments came as the weekly news conference. department was under widespread criticism that the During the year and a half investigation by the old policy of arresting every suspected low-level House Oversight and Government Reform "straw purchaser" was still allowing tens of thousands Committee, the Justice Department turned over 7,600 documents about details of Operation Fast and of guns to reach Mexico. A straw purchaser is an illicit Furious. But because the department initially denied buyer of guns for others. The agents in Arizona lost track of several and then admitted it used a risky investigative hundred weapons in Operation Fast and Furious. technique known as "gun-walking," the committee Boehner renewed his allegation that President has turned its attention to how the department Barack Obama's decision to assert executive privilege responded to the investigation. The additional to withhold the documents "is an admission the White documents it seeks are about that topic. House officials were involved in the decision that Agents of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, misled the Congress and covered up the truth." In fact, Firearms and Explosives in Arizona abandoned the historically, several presidents have invoked executive agency's usual practice of intercepting all weapons privilege over Cabinet department documents that did they believed to be illicitly purchased. Instead, the not directly involve White House officials. goal of gun-walking was to track such weapons to In an election year, each party leveled charges high-level arms traffickers who had long eluded
against the other. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., accused Republicans of pursuing Holder to retaliate against his effort to stop suppression of voters in the upcoming elections. "I'm telling you, this is connected," she told reporters. In an effort to back up her assertion, Pelosi's office emailed Democratic reports from 2007, when the party accused Republicans of an ongoing effort to deprive people of the right to vote. Holder, in Copenhagen, Denmark, for meetings with European Union officials, said Thursday the administration had given the committee a proposal to negotiate an end to the conflict. "I think the possibility still exists that it can happen in that way," Holder said. "The proposal that we have made is still there. The House, I think, the House leadership, has to consider now what they will do, so we'll see how it works out." But he called the contempt vote "unwarranted, unnecessary and unprecedented." White House press secretary Jay Carney said there was "absolutely" no cover-up on the Fast and Furious controversy. He said executive privilege was asserted only on internal deliberations and "that is separate from trying to find out the truth about this operation." Democrats contended that a 23-17 party-line contempt vote in the House Oversight committee Wednesday was just political theater. On Tuesday, Holder offered to give lawmakers a briefing on the withheld documents but insisted that this action satisfy Issa's subpoena for the records and negate the need for a contempt vote. Boehner on Thursday rejected Holder's approach. "The negotiation that was proposed by the attorney general is, we should accept some documents of his choosing and, as a result of him turning over some documents of his choosing, that we would never ever pursue contempt," Boehner said. "Now this is not hardly a rational basis for a negotiation, nor is it a reasonable attempt at turning over the documents we've been asking for."
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Page 37
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
WORLD NEWS
Video shows Zimmerman's account of fatal fight ORLANDO, Fla.- Detectives who questioned George Zimmerman in the days after he fatally shot Trayvon Martin grilled him on his story and said some of his statements were inconsistent, according to video and audio police tapes released Thursday. The skepticism is at odds with a public perception that the police department didn't fully investigate the neighborhood watch leader in the aftermath of the shooting. Zimmerman was arrested more than a month after the shooting, and only after the local police department said they were not going to charge him. The evidence was made public by Zimmerman's attorney almost a week before Zimmerman's second bond hearing on a second-degree murder charge, and on the heels of unflattering telephone calls capturing Zimmerman and his wife talking in code about using money collected for a defense fund to pay credit cards. Making it public now may help Zimmerman "because this is a case being played out in the press," said criminal defense attorney David Hill, who is not involved in the case. "If there is a strategic basis, I don't think it hurts," Hill said. "I don't think it hurts his client at all." The tapes give Zimmerman's most detailed account yet of what led to the Feb. 26 shooting. In one video, he goes to the scene of the shooting and reenacts for police what happened, answering probing questions from authorities. In an interrogation at the police
In this Feb. 27, 2012 image taken from a Sanford Police video posted on a website called gzlegalcase.com by George Zimmerman's defense team, Zimmerman speaks to an unidentified investigator at the scene of Trayvon Martin's fatal shooting a day later giving police a blow-by-blow account of his fight with the teen. On the tape, Zimmerman did a reenactment of the scuffle with Martin in the moments before he shot the 17-year-old from Miami.
station, a detective points out inconsistencies in his story, particularly Zimmerman's claim that Martin confronted him, punched him and slammed his head onto the ground when the teenager had no prior history of violence. Detective Chris Sereno asks Zimmerman whether he was profiling Martin because he was black, a claim Martin's parents have made. "You know you are going to come under a lot of scrutiny for this," Sereno said. "Had this person been white, would you have felt the same way?" "Yes," said Zimmerman, who father is white and his mother
Hispanic. Zimmerman claims he shot the unarmed 17-year-old Martin teen in self-defense, under Florida's "stand your ground" law. Martin's parents have said Zimmerman was the aggressor. They said Martin was walking back from a convenience store through the gated community in Sanford when Zimmerman spotted Martin and started following him. In the video, Zimmerman said he grabbed his gun from a holster on his waist before Martin could get it, and shot Martin once in the chest as they fought on the ground outside
townhomes in a gated community. After firing, Zimmerman said he thought he missed. "He sat up and said, 'You got me. You got me, or something like that,'" Zimmerman said. Zimmerman said Martin had been on top of him, slamming his head against the ground and smothering his mouth and nose with his hand and arm. The tape shows two butterfly bandages on the back of Zimmerman's head and another on his nose. There are red marks on the front of his head. "It felt like my head was going to explode," he said. Hill, the defense attorney, said the video didn't show Zimmerman to be the zealous "cop-wannabe" that Martin's parents have portrayed. "I didn't see him being too slick on the details," Hill said. Zimmerman claims Martin confronted him after the neighborhood watch leader had given up searching for him and was walking back to his truck. But there doesn't appear to be a place to hide in the area where Zimmerman says Martin suddenly appeared, Hill pointed out. Criminal defense attorney Blaine McChesney, who also is not involved in the case, said he found parts of Zimmerman's re-enactment difficult to envision, such as his account of how he was able to reach for his gun with Martin on top of him. Zimmerman said he got on top of Martin after the shooting to restrain him. "I also find it strange that Zimmerman would have attempted to use both his arms to hold Martin facedown, re-holstering his firearm, given those circumstances," McChesney said. "Once out from under Martin's alleged attack, it would have been more logical to hold Martin at gunpoint from a few feet away until police arrived."
Norway prosecutors say man who killed 77 is insane
Karzai says corruption has reached its peak in Afghanistan
OSLO, Norway — If Norwegian prosecutors get their way, no one will be held criminally responsible for the deaths of 77 people in a bomb and shooting rampage that roiled the peaceful nation. Even though self-styled anti-Muslim militant Anders Behring Breivik insists he is sane and that he carried out the July 22 attacks for political reasons, prosecutors said in closing arguments Thursday that doubts about his mental state mean he should be sent to a psychiatric institution instead of prison. Ultimately, it's up to the Oslo district court to decide whether Breivik is criminally insane when it presents its ruling, expected a month after the trial ends Friday. Either way, the 33-year-old Norwegian will likely be locked up for most, if not all, of his life. But the outcome will also influence whether Norway's worst peacetime massacre goes down in history as right-wing terrorism or as the work of a bloodthirsty madman. "I still think Breivik is clearly sane and that his rhetoric, attitudes and behavior don't differ notably from other terrorists," said Usman Rana, a Norwegian-born Muslim of Pakistani origin who writes a newspaper column. Rana said he doubted the psychiatric
KABUL, Afghanistan -- With an eye toward a major international donors conference next month, President Hamid Karzai on Thursday sought to deflect fears that billions of dollars in new aid to Afghanistan would be squandered through graft and corruption. In a nationally televised speech to a special session of parliament, Karzai also told compatriots that though foreigners were to blame for many of the country's problems, Afghanistan would have to stand on its own after 2014, when the NATO combat role ends. With about $4 billion in civilian aid expected to be pledged at the July gathering in Tokyo, Karzai offered one of his most direct acknowledgements to date that graft is a pervasive fact of life in Afghanistan. "Corruption has reached its peak in our country," he said. "These are ills that the government must confront. ... We must fight these evils together." Western backers have tried for years to pressure Karzai into initiating meaningful reforms, and many diplomats in Kabul remain deeply skeptical that he will follow through on his promises. At the Tokyo conference, donors are expected to press for greater accountability as a condition of continued aid. One imminent test of Karzai's commitment to fighting corruption will be whether anyone is held to account in the Kabul Bank scandal. The country's biggest private financial institution teetered close to collapse in 2010 after nearly $1 billion in bad loans came to light, and those implicated in wrongdoing include members of Karzai's family and inner circle. Somewhat unusually, Karzai also acknowledged his own propensity for deal-making, the major means by which he has remained in power. But he suggested that his tactics had been meant to hold the government and country together. "I have been accused of making deals," he said. "I have sometimes compromised ... but no more. I will bring reforms."
dimension would have been so prominent if the perpetrator had been an Islamist extremist. The image of global terrorism was jolted when the blond, blue-eyed gunman surrendered to police after slaughtering 69 people at the governing Labor Party's summer youth camp. Hours earlier, he had set off a bomb in Oslo's governing district, killing eight. Breivik immediately admitted to the attacks and called them justified. The leftwing Labor Party, in power for much of the postwar era, had betrayed the country by allowing Muslim immigrants to settle in Norway, he said. That kind of rhetoric is not uncommon among far-right fanatics in Europe, but Breivik didn't belong to any known extremist group. He claimed to be a commander of a militant network of "Knights Templar," but investigators found no trace of it. Even when presented with evidence to the contrary, Breivik insisted the group is real with such conviction that he must actually have believed in it, prosecutor Svein Holden said. "On the background of Breivik's intense defense of these obviously false claims, we believe it's hard to conclude that it's an
Page 38
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
WORLD NEWS
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
Romney promises comprehensive immigration plan Presumptive Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney promised Thursday before a Latino forum his own immigration plan to replace the provisional measure announced last week by President Barack Obama. Speaking in Orlando to the annual conference of the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials, or NALEO, Romney accused Obama of political opportunism when he suspended the deportation of certain undocumented students. "Some people have asked if I will let stand the president's executive action. The answer is that I will put in place my own long-term solution that will replace and supersede the President's temporary measure," the former Massachusetts governor said. Obama's order will benefit at least 800,000 undocumented students who arrived in the United States when they were minors, and who will be able to obtain a renewable temporary work permit valid for two years. The measure, however, does not offer a
Mitt Romney
path to legalization. Romney made his announcement to NALEO one day before Obama will speak to the same association, while Republicans and Democrats actively court the slightly more than 12.2 million Hispanics expected to go to the polls on Nov. 6. Romney kicked off his speech with his known talking points
denouncing Obama's economic record, recalling that the unemployment rate among Hispanics stands at around 11 percent, three percentage points above the national average, and that 2 million more Hispanics have joined the ranks of the poor since 2009. Obama waited 3 1/2 years to offer this immigration relief because, for electoral reasons, he felt "an overwhelming need to do what he could have done on Day One," the Republican said. "As president, I won't settle for a stop-gap measure," Romney vowed. "I will work with Republicans and Democrats to find a long-term solution. I will prioritize measures that strengthen legal immigration and make it easier. And I will address the problem of illegal immigration in a civil but resolute manner. We may not always agree, but when I make a promise to you, I will keep it." This is the first time that Romney has presented details of a plan for immigration reform, one that includes
strengthening border security and the extension of visas for foreigners with needed skills and for workers in the fields of agriculture, tourism and services. His plan would permit the legalization of undocumented students who serve in the military. In any case, much of his plan was already part of the reform that was blocked in Congress in 2007 for lack of consensus. The Obama campaign team recalled that during the GOP primaries, Romney promised to veto the DREAM Act for the legalization of undocumented students if Congress should approve that legislation. Other pro-reform groups said that Romney also supported the "selfdeportation" of the undocumented and believed that Arizona's harsh SB 1070 immigration law should serve as a model for the rest of the country. A recent NBC/Telemundo/Wall Street Journal poll showed Obama leading Romney among Latinos by 61 percent to 27 percent.
Syria air force pilot Poland shaken by case alleging an illicit CIA prison there defects to Jordan BEIRUT — An air force pilot landed his MiG-21 fighter jet at a Jordanian air base Thursday, becoming the first Syrian airman to defect with his warplane since the rebellion against President Bashar Assad began 15 months ago. Jordan granted political asylum to the pilot and planned to debrief him, the government said. The incident is an embarrassment and a symbolic blow for Assad, whose government is locked in a bloody struggle against insurgents. The Syrian air force — once commanded by the president's late father, Hafez Assad, himself a former fighter pilot — has been regarded as especially loyal to the government. The state-run Syrian press bureau issued a strongly worded statement denouncing the pilot, identified as Col. Hassan Hamada, as "a deserter and a traitor to his country" who "will be punished accordingly." Opposition activists and Western governments seeking Assad's ouster lauded the pilot as a hero. Whether the defection was a singular event or would trigger a wave of copycats remained uncertain. The uprising in Syria has seen its military suffer many desertions from the mostly conscripted ranks — drawn largely from the majority Sunni Muslim population, which is also the driving force behind the uprising. But the elite officer corps, stocked with adherents of Assad's Alawite sect, an offshoot of Shiite Islam, are believed to remain mostly intact, despite repeated entreaties from the opposition. Assad has clearly not suffered the kind of mass, high-level defections that former Libyan leader Moammar Kadafi faced. Scores of diplomats, generals and senior officials had abandoned Kadafi by the time armed rebels chased him from the Libyan capital last year. Still, word of an air force colonel deserting with his MiG-21 carries symbolic weight in Syria and seems sure to bolster rebel morale. Branches of air force intelligence are situated throughout the nation and are seen as ruthless enforcers of the Syrian police state. The Syrian pilot took off early Thursday from a base in southern Syria, flying at a high speed and low altitude to avoid detection, reported Al Jazeera, the pan-Arab satellite news network. Once in Jordan's airspace, Al Jazeera said, he requested permission to land at a Jordanian military air base close to the Syrian border. Earlier, Syrian state media had reported that authorities had "lost contact" with a MiG-21 fighter that was on a training flight in the south.
WARSAW — For years, the idea seemed unthinkable, absurd. A secret U.S. detention center in a remote corner of Poland, where Al Qaeda suspects were brutally interrogated by the CIA? About as likely as "the Loch Ness monster," is how one Pole described it recently. That monster is now rearing its head. Cloistered inside government offices, surrounded by classified documents, Polish prosecutors are building a case that could result in criminal charges against the nation's former spy chief and even, some say, against former senior political leaders. Evidence that a foreign power was allowed to conduct illicit activities on Polish soil has deeply shaken many Poles' faith in the United States and in Poland's sense The reputation of Poland is at stake,” President Bronislaw of itself as a successful democracy born from Komorowski said recently in reference to the investigation into whether the CIA operated a secret prison in his the ashes of the Cold War. country last decade The prosecutors' investigation centers on a Polish military garrison that allegedly hosted a CIA "black site" where foreign disappointment in the United States as the detainees were subjected to internationally land of the free." Poland is not the only country in Europe condemned interrogation techniques, such as where the U.S. allegedly operated a secret waterboarding, during 2002 and 2003. The detention facility with at least tacit suspects — including Khalid Shaikh Mohammed, the self-professed mastermind permission from somewhere within the host of the Sept. 11 attacks — had either been government. Black sites are also thought to arrested or snatched under the United States' have existed in Romania and Lithuania, two "extraordinary rendition" program and other developing democracies, as well as in questioned abroad to avoid American legal countries in North Africa and Asia. But Poland is alone among the European standards for interrogations, prosecutors say. nations in having launched an official The allegations have already damaged investigation of the matter. the reputation of the country that Poles thank "The reputation of Poland is at stake," for helping them to cast off communist oppression. Many now angrily believe the President Bronislaw Komorowski declared U.S. took advantage of their gratitude, in March. "Certainly this is a sensitive and loyalty and eagerness to please by setting up touchy issue, and possibly painful for the a torture site that it would never have Polish state, but it is the task of the legal apparatus to clarify this." allowed within its own borders. "It's the kind of thing we expect from At the same time, a number of lawyers, Soviet Russia. We remember the Soviet journalists and rights activists complain that occupation; we remember the German the investigation has been halting, opaque occupation," said attorney Mikolaj Pietrzak, and prone to political meddling because of who represents one of the Islamist men its potential repercussions for U.S.-Polish allegedly held and questioned in Poland. relations and for prominent public figures "The fact that this beacon of liberty which is who may have known about the suspected America would allow this — it's a great CIA site.
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Page 39
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
•
HIGHLIGHTS LinkedIn sued $5 million for security breach
goes after YouTube-ripping website READ ON PAGE 40
Microsoft melds Windows Phone 8 with Windows 8 Microsoft previewed Windows Phone 8 to developers on Wednesday at its Windows Phone Summit event, showing off new features and a key strategy for the new platform. Windows Phone 8 will share a common core of code with Windows 8 on desktops and laptops, much like Apple has used OS X as the core of its iOS software. The new smartphone software makes it easier for developers to create one app for both platforms while also adding additional hardware features to let Microsoft better compete in the heavily contested smartphone market. Windows Phone Vice President Terry Myerson introduced the overall strategy, saying: “We want Windows Phone to be personal, relevant to the user through sensors and data, and the most connected experience, betting on the cloud.” A greater range of hardware should be expected, as the shared core can scale up or down from phones to full computers. More important: Developers on one platform can move their apps to the other with ease, providing a stronger ecosystem for consumers. Hardware
drivers, for example, can be used on both platforms. Here’s a rundown of the key features that will appear on Windows Phone 8 devices this fall: • Multicore-chip support on Windows Phone, with a focus on dual-core optimizations initially to balance battery life and performance • Three screen resolutions supported: 800 x 480, 1280 x 768, and 1280 x 720 • Removable microSD memory card support for photos, music, videos, and application installations • Internet Explorer 10 with the same rendering engine on phone or desktop, providing a similar experience and one set of code for Web developers • Improved HTML5 support and up to 4x JavaScript performance compared with Windows Phone 7 • Native code game development between desktop and phone, based on DirectX • Improved support for NFC (near field communication) with the “most complete wallet experience”: credit/debit cards, loyalty cards, saved deals, and NFC payments. Secure SIM elements can be used instead of a
dedicated secure element integrated in the phone. • Nokia’s map technology will be used, adding offline map support, map control for developers, and more. • For business, Windows Phone 8 supports BitLocker encrypting and secure boot, in-house app deployment with signed apps, and improved device management. The final platform change is Microsoft’s new start screen that’s far more customizable. Tiles can be one of three sizes, representing Myerson’s comments about Windows Phone 8 being personal. Overall, these changes are precisely what Microsoft needs to help kick-start its Windows Phone sales. The early handsets have earned solid reviews, but they are taking a long time to gain both market share and mind share. Is some of Windows Phone 8 a “catching up” to iOS and Android? Absolutely, but these are still welcome improvements. The biggest news, however, is something that consumers won’t quite see yet but will still benefit from: the shared core code between Microsoft’s mobile and desktop platforms. This
IMF boss demands action to avert threat to euro The International Monetary Fund urged the euro zone on Thursday to channel aid directly to struggling banks rather than via governments and called for the European Central Bank to cut interest rates, saying the future of the euro was at stake. The stark message from IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde, delivered to euro zone finance ministers who met in Luxembourg, will increase pressure to forge a unified approach to tackling problems at struggling banks such as those in Spain. "We are clearly seeing additional tension and acute stress applying to both banks and sovereigns in the euro area," Lagarde told a news conference after the meeting. "A determined and forceful move towards complete European monetary union should be reaffirmed in order to restore faith," she said. "At the moment, the viability of the European monetary system is questioned." Lagarde spelled out a plan that envisioned the issuance of jointly guaranteed euro zone debt as well as more centralized economic control in the 17 countries that use the euro. As ministers prepared to provide up to 100 billion euros ($126 billion) in aid for Spain to shore up its stricken banks, Lagarde said financial support for banks should be given directly, rather than via the state.
Analysts believe such a model could entail allowing the euro zone's permanent rescue scheme, the European Stability Mechanism (ESM) to directly inject capital into banks in return for a shareholding, or to lend at penalty rate of interest. "There must be a recapitalization of the weak banks, with preferably a direct link between the European Financial Stability Facility(EFSF)/ESM and the banks, without going through the sovereign, in order to break the negative feedback loop that we have between banks and sovereigns." Her comments mirrored an appeal made by the finance minister of Ireland, which was forced to take a state bailout to prop up its lenders. "The experience of Ireland should have been learned by the European authorities. To recapitalize banks and to transfer the accounting of it onto the sovereign seems to be an additional burden," Michael Noonan told reporters at the meeting. CREATIVITY Lagarde also called for the Frankfurt-based European Central Bank to carry out monetary policy with "sufficient creativity" to help the euro zone, and the IMF fleshed out that idea in a new report on the single currency area. "The ECB has room, albeit limited, to ease policy rates and signal a commitment to a more accommodative stance for a prolonged period," the IMF said in the report.
Joe Belfiore, corporate vice president of Microsoft, introduces mobile operating system in San Francisco, California.
should result in not only better hardware choices but also a stronger application ecosystem and unified experience among phones, tablets, and other Windows computers. But there is a downside. Existing Windows Phone devices will not get the new operating system. Paul Thurrott notes that instead, these phones will get the new start screen in a direct update from Microsoft called Windows Phone 7.8. That’s bad news for Nokia Lumia 900 owners and others who have purchased a Windows Phone of late.
Oil falls below $90 for first time since Dec 2010 Brent crude oil slid nearly 4 percent in heavy trading on Thursday, dropping below $90 a barrel for the first time in 18 months as weak economic data from China, the United States and Europe pointed to prospects for slower oil demand. A technical breakdown in crude futures on both sides of the Atlantic spurred further selling, with no bottom in sight, analysts said. Brent has fallen by nearly $40 a barrel since hitting $128.40 in early March, as increased production from Saudi Arabia has led to a rise in stockpiles. Other major commodities also tumbled as gloomy global data darkened the demand outlook for raw materials. In London, Brent futures for August delivery ended down $3.46 at $89.23 a barrel, the lowest settlement for front-month Brent since December 2010. It had dropped to a session low of $88.90, also the lowest intraday price since December 2010. U.S. August crude fell $3.25 to settle at $78.20 a barrel, the lowest front-month settlement for U.S. crude since October 4, 2011. "Supply is outstripping demand and whatever other data you see out there won't change that," said Dominick Chrichella, senior partner at the Energy Management Institute in New York. Traders and technicals analysts said a move below $90 a barrel in Brent could trigger more selling. U.S. crude is also close to last year's low of $74.95 a barrel, a The Porse Pajun key support level.
Page 40
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
BUSINESS AND TECHNOLOGY
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
Moody’s downgrades Morgan Stanley and other 14 other major banks Moody's Investors Service has lowered the ratings of some of the world's largest banks, including Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup and Goldman Sachs. The ratings agency said late Thursday that the banks were downgraded because their long-term prospects for profitability and growth are shrinking. The ratings agency said it was especially concerned about banks with significant capital market activities during a time of increased volatility in markets. A downgrade usually means that it becomes more costly for banks to raise money by selling debt. Investors demand higher interest for riskier debt, which is what the downgrades represent. Moody's had said in February that it was considering downgrading the credit ratings of major banks. The Moody's Corp. unit reduced Morgan Stanley's rating to Baa1, which is three notches above the junk, or noninvestment grade, status that many bond buyers avoid. The move stands to add to the company's borrowing costs and force it to present billions of dollars in cash or high-grade bonds as collateral. More important, the downgrade could trim Morgan Stanley's earnings power by cutting market share in highmargin businesses such as derivatives as traders seek out higher-rated trading partners. Questions about major banks'
earnings power and capacity to withstand market shocks have weighed on financial stocks since early 2011. Morgan Stanley's shares fell 24 cents, or 1.7%, to $13.96 in 4 p.m. New York Stock Exchange composite trading on Thursday during a broad market selloff. In after-hours trading, the stock was up 3.6%. In a statement, the company said, "While Moody's revised ratings are better than its initial guidance of up to three notches, we believe the ratings still do not fully reflect the key strategic actions we have taken in recent years." Over time, a downgrade could mean "the incremental new business could be tougher to win," said Glenn Schorr, an analyst at Nomura Securities. The company's shares have fallen 39% over the past year amid questions about its profit outlook. But the two-notch rating cut saves Morgan Stanley from a blow to its reputation. The company that has labored since the financial crisis to dispel investor fears that it would be the first major financial firm to be rocked in any large market storm. On Thursday, Moody's cut Morgan Stanley's long-term rating by two notches and reduced long-term ratings by two levels at Goldman Sachs Group Inc., J.P. Morgan Chase JPM -2.58%& Co. and Citigroup Inc. C -3.57% Bank of America Corp.'s BAC 3.93%long-term debt was downgraded by one notch. Ratings at Wells Fargo WFC -1.43%& Co., which has a
smaller investment-banking operation, weren't reviewed. Investors have been questioning how Morgan Stanley would fare since February, when Moody's said it would review the long-term ratings of 17 major banks around the world. The review focused on the sector's weakening profit outlook, but attention was immediately drawn to Morgan Stanley as the smallest company and the one whose ratings stood to take the largest hit. Other big U.S. firms faced downgrades of two notches at most. The downgrade comes nearly four years after the New York company was forced to seek outside investors and take refuge in Federal Reserve bankholding-company status at the height of the 2008 financial crisis. Since then, Morgan Stanley has focused on selling risky business lines and overhauling management. Because those moves have reduced risk and left the company with abundant cash on hand, Chief Executive James Gorman recently dismissed a possible three-notch downgrade as "a somewhat stunning outcome." It is the first time that Moody's has imposed a sweeping downgrade of banks since 2007. The downgrades target banks with big trading operations but not necessarily those that deal directly with consumers. The downgrades could add to the unease plaguing global markets. Many investors have been skeptical of banks'
LinkedIn sued $5 million for security breach After being attacked by a hacker who stole 6.5 million of its passwords, LinkedIn is now being sued by one of its users for $5 million. The lawsuit was filed on Friday in U.S. District Court in Northern California by an Illinois woman named Katie Szpyrka who in the lawsuit says LinkedIn failed to safeguard its users passwords. The lawsuit, which seeks class-action status, says LinkedIn did not meet its privacy policy, which states that the business social network protects its 160-million users' information with industry-standard protocols and technology. But the lawsuit says the passwords stolen by LinkedIn were only protected by hashes — a form of password security — and weren't also salted — which is another form of password security typically used on top of hashing. “Industry standards require at least the additional process of adding 'salt' to a password before running it through a hashing function,” the lawsuit claims according to eWeek. “This procedure drastically increases the difficult of deciphering the resulting encrypted password." Erin O'Harra, a spokeswoman for LinkedIn, said the company has not found that any of its users' accounts were actually breached as a result of the attack. "Therefore, it appears that these threats are driven by lawyers looking to take advantage of the situation," O'Harra said in an email statement. "We believe these claims are without merit, and we will defend the company vigorously against suits trying to leverage third-party criminal behavior." The suit was filed about a week and half after LinkedIn confirmed the attack. The company on June 6 began looking into reports that a hacker had dumped a list containing 6.5 million of its users' passwords and later confirmed that they had in fact been stolen. LinkedIn had to force its affected users as well as some other users they suspected may have also been compromised to change their passwords. Following the attack, LinkedIn announced that it would now be salting its passwords
capacity to withstand an economic downturn or market shock tied to the European debt crisis. Worries about those outcomes have increased in recent weeks amid signs that Greece may exit the euro zone and that economic growth is slowing in the U.S. and China. Standard & Poor's Ratings Services, a division of McGraw-Hill Cos., last year downgraded more than a dozen global banks, including the six biggest U.S. firms, in a change aimed at sharpening the focus on how banks would hold up under market and economic stress, and on the likelihood of governments providing extraordinary support to troubled institutions. But this week's downgrades mean that Moody's has the lowest rating for the five biggest U.S. banks among the three major creditrating firms, which also include the Fitch Ratings unit of Fimalac SA and Hearst Corp. The banks have spent the past couple of months downplaying the potential impact of a downgrade. They have said they are more robustly capitalized and have more cash on hand than they did in the financial crisis of 2008. Policy makers also have moved to minimize any funding-market impact. A liquidity program announced last week by the Bank of England was in part an effort to make sure U.K. banks would continue to have access to funding.
Google goes after YouTuberipping website Google is trying to rein in a German-based website that creates MP3s by ripping audio from YouTube videos. Philip Matesanz, owner of youtube-mp3.org, said he received a cease and desist letter from Google on June 9 for his website. The website allows users to send in the link of a YouTube video and receive an MP3 copy of its audio. It’s an effective way to grab free song files. This type of legal action isn’t new or unusual for the company, which alerts many websites and individuals when they’re in violation of YouTube’s terms of service. YouTube’s terms of service say in part, “Content is provided to you AS IS.” But Matesanz, a 21-year-old student, insists his service is legal in Germany. “I tried to explain to [YouTube counsel] Harris Cohen how this market works and that I don’t intend to create any harm to YouTube users or YouTube itself,” Matesanz, whose first language is German, said. “I got a reply [that] was not very nice.” “We have always taken violations of our Terms of Service seriously, and will continue to enforce these Terms of Service against sites that violate them,” a YouTube spokesperson said. Matesanz says his website, which is owned by a German version of an LLC, is now blocked from accessing YouTube. News of the legal scuffle comes on the heels of a blog post by Emily White, an NPR intern, on the All Music Considered website about her ripped 11,000-song music collection. White said she represents a generation of people who don’t expect to pay for music.
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
Page 41
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
Great White Sharks and Purple Pirates battle it out in the third place playoff
beach soccer finals
READ MORE BELOW
Emphatic Pink Mermaids are Beach Soccer Champs The Pink Mermaids are champions of the Captain Marvin’s Women’s Beach Soccer League, ending the season unbeaten. They ended the season emphatically by pummeling the Blue Marlins 7-1 victory over the Blue Marlins in the Championship final. The Mermaids had topped the standings during the regular season and went into the final full of confidence. However, the Marlins had every right to feel that an upset could be on the cards, as with players like Monae Gooden, Amelie Speer, Jenny Fluerenvil and Sarah Cenary, they had enough weapons of their own in the final showdown. The opening period was a very close affair and neither team was able to exert their influence on the game until player of the season Kadine Delphin managed to score from long range. At the start of the second period the Marlins pressed for an equalizer and were looking dangerous until Amelie Speer had to receive treatment after an accidental clash of heads with Yarileny De La Cruz. After the restart the Mermaids began to take control of the game as Delphin’s expertise resulted in her team taking a 41 lead going into the final period. The Marlins had some early chances in the final quarter but De La Cruz made some impressive saves in goal as her team ran out worthy 7-1 winners.
Dephin scored five of her team’s goals, with De La Cruz and Griet Vanbrabant adding the others. Sarah Cenary scored the lone goal for the Marlins. In the opening game the Great White Sharks ensured they finished in third place with an impressive 11-7 win against the Purple Pirates. Despite a poor start to the season, the Sharks finished off with two back to back wins. Their overall team play and spirit shone through and the goals were split among several players, Crystal Stirling (3), Simone Smith (3), Jachelle gardner (2), Jessica Lange (2), Kimberley Angelo. Christina Hinds scored four goals for the Pirates with Cydnee Campbell (2) and Yarielca De La Cruz scoring the others. After the games were over Technical Director Matthew Green and league Sponsor Tracey Pratt of Captain Marvin handed out several awards and trophies. Green was very pleased with the league this year. “This season has shown a vast improvement in the level of play. The referees and players are more familiar with the game and this bodes well for the future as we prepare for games in December against the Bahamas and Puerto Rico . We are the only country in the region that has regular leagues in this format so it will not be long before we can compete on the world stage.”
The Pink Mermaids Team showing off their trophies after winning the championshi
Green was equally pleased with the overall development of the players. “Many of our young players have adapted very well to Beach Soccer, player like Monae Gooden, Jessica Lange, Yarileny De la Cruz and especially Kadine Delphin are very good players on the field, but they have become excellent players on the sand. They are keen to learn more about the game and train on a regular basis. Not only is women’s football looking good right now, so is Beach Soccer.”
In the third place play-off, Great White Sharks hammered Purple Pirates 11-7. Kadine Delphin, walked away with two awards - League MVP and Top Goal-scorer. The Fair Play Award wen to Monae Gooden, while the title of Most Assists title was awarded to Yarileny De La Cruz. Monae Gooden was the Marlins MVP; the MVP for Mermaids was Griet Vanbrabant; Sharks MVP was Jessica Lange; while Cydnee Campbell the Pirates MVP.
Jaguars, Police in HAB/Gansevoort T20 finals BY VIVIAN TYSON SUN SENIOR EDITOR
The police will seek to tame the Jaguars in the final of the HAB Group/Gansevoort T20 final at the Downtown Ball Park this Sunday, June 24. Heavy hitters Police have cemented their place in the final last Saturday, June 16, but turning back the challenges of a spirited Quality Supermarket Kings in the second semifinal game at the Downtown Ball Park field. They Jaguars had previously booked their place in the final by beating Beaches. The Police win was spearheaded by top-scorer and man of the match Sabuton John and prolific scorers Garvin Bruno and Kareem Jack. Quality Kings, who won the toss and asked Police to take first strike, may still be ruing their decision, as the Police team piled up a mammoth 244 runs for the loss of five wickets from
Sabutan John collecting his man of the match award from Michael Pereira
their allotted 20 overs, with John topscored top-scoring with a blistering 74, runs which included nine 4s and four 6s. John was ably supported by Garvin
Bruno, who blasted an undefeated 61 runs, comprising five 4s and three 6s. Jack missed out on his half century by a whisker, after he was sent back for 48 runs, which included nine 4s.
Earl Henry was the pick of the Quality Kings bowling aggregation, having backed three wickets for 43 runs from 4 overs. Quality Kings found the going tough in their reply, as the Police, led by Ira Baptiste, for the most part kept their batsmen in check, while taking wickets at regular intervals. In the end Quality fell short of the target by 111 runs, having reached 133 runs for 9 wickets from 20 overs. Their top run-getter was Lloyd Lynch, crawled to 27 runs before he was out. Baptiste was the pick of the Police bowlers, giving up just 15 runs from his three overs while claiming four wickets. For police to take home the title, Bruno, John, Jak and Baptistes will have to maintain their form against a Jaguars team that these days have become unpredictable. Jaguars will depend on Captain Munesh Bhagwandas, Nuwan Bodhinayake, shawn Khan, Sheldon Henry and Mark Henry, to ensure that they take the title.
Page 42
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
Bolt, who has been the poster boy for athletics since romping to three gold medals and world records at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China, has gone on to dominate his events over the past four years, all this time raising the value of the sport and, by extension, his brand.
- Bolt #63 on Forbes richest athletes list READ MORE BELOW
Former Barbados and West Indies fast bowler Wes Hall knighted Wes Hall, the iconic Barbadian and West Indies fast bowler of the 1960s, who went on to become a colourful speaker and figure in public service in government, business and religion, has been knighted in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list, the Barbados government announced on Saturday. At age 74, Sir Wesley, as he is to be styled formally, is to be made a Knight Bachelor (KB) for his “contribution to sport and the community” in an 11-year Test cricket career that has earned him a place in the West Indies Cricket Hall of Fame as the first West Indian to take a hattrick in a Test match (dismissing three batsman in successive balls), a feat he achieved against India in his first match in 1958. A tall, muscular bowler, Wesley Winfield Hall and fellow Barbadian Charlie Griffith became one of the most fearsome duos in cricket, strike bowlers who presaged the quartet of West Indian pacers that would come to dominate the game a decade later. He bowled the final delivery that
Wes Hall
resulted in the first tie in Test cricket when the West Indies faced Australia in 1960. But in what later described as his “finest hour”, Sir Wesley bowled without a break for more than three hours against England in the summer of 1963, on the final day of the second Test at Lord’s to draw the match. Six years later, his body exhausted by the wear and tear of bowling at
speed, he played his 48th and final Test match in 1969, taking only one wicket – his 192nd in Tests – against New Zealand before leaving the field with an injury. His playing days over, Sir Wesley began a new life in public service in business and government with new careers in industrial and public relations, politics and religion that drew on a talent for colourful and humorous public speaking. In the private sector, he worked for Cable and Wireless, Banks Barbados Breweries and Sandals Resorts in Barbados and Trinidad’s West Indies Tobacco Company (WITCO). But entering Barbadian politics as a senator for the Democratic Labour Party, he won election to a parliamentary seat in 1986, and reelected in 1991. As the minister for tourism and sports in the Erskine Sandiford administration, he has been credited for developing the sports tourism industry in Barbados. He then became an ordained
minister in the Pentacostal Church in 1990. A popular speaker at public and private functions, he has also served West Indies cricket as administrator, from selector to team manager and ultimately as president of the West Indies Cricket Board from 2001 to 2003. Sir Wesley now adds a knighthood to an honorary doctor from the University of the West Indies (UWI) a lifetime achievement award from the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO). At the storied Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, a grandstand bears his name along with bowling partner Griffith – the Hall and Griffith stand. Sir Wesley now joins legendary West Indies and Barbados cricketers of the 1950s and 1960s to be knighted, beginning with Sir Frank Worrell (KB, 1964) and followed by Sir Gary Sobers (KB, 1975), Sir Clyde Walcott (Knight of St. Andrew, 1993), Sir Everton Weekes (KCMG, 1995) and Sir Conrad Hunte (KA, 1998).
Bolt ranked 63 on Forbes top 100 richest sports personalities JAMAICAN triple world record holder Usain Bolt has been listed at number 63 on the Forbes top 100 highest paid sports personalities list. Bolt earned US$20.3 million over the last 12 months, with most of his money coming from endorsements and contracts. His highest sponsor is sporting goods company Puma, which pays the athlete US$9 million annually. Bolt reportedly earned US$300,000 for his on the track exploits over the last 12 months. Bolt, who has been the poster boy for athletics since romping to three gold medals and world records at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China, has gone on to dominate his events over the past four years, all this time raising the value of the sport and, by extension, his brand. His US$20.3 million earnings leaves him in the number 63 position, and again makes him the only track and field athlete among the 100 highest-paid sports personalities. The list accounts earnings between June 2011 and June 2012. Like all track and field athletes, Bolt earns comparatively less in salary and winnings than individuals in other sporting disciplines, but he is one of the most sought-after personalities for companies across the world, with one of the most recognisable
Usain Bolt
and endearing images in international sports. Boxing champion Floyd Mayweather topped the list with a total earnings of $85 million while Fillipino pugilist Manny Pacquiao, with earnings of $62 million, and golf legend Tiger Woods, with $59.4 million, are second and third. Manchester United's star striker Rooney is
placed 37th with a total earnings of $24.3 million. Djokovic from Serbia, winner of six Grand Slams singles titles, is 62nd with $20.6 million, while Olympic 100m champion Usain Bolt is 63rd with total earnings of $20.3 million. Maria Sharapova is the richest among women's sportspersons at 26th with earnings of $27.9 million. While Roger Federer is ranked fifth in the list, David Beckham (8th) and Cristiano Ronaldo (9th) are the two soccer stars who are in the top-10. TOP 10 Richest Sportspersons with earnings: 1. Floyd Mayweather (Boxing) ($85 million) 2. Manny Pacquiao (Boxing) ($62 million) 3. Tiger Woods (Golf) ($59.4 million) 4. Lebron James (Basketball) ($53 million) 5. Roger Federer (Tennis) ($52.7 million) 6. Kobe Bryant (Basketball) ($52.3 million) 7. Phil Mickelson (Golf) ($47.8 million) 8. David Beckham (Soccer) ($46 million) 9. Cristiano Ronaldo (Soccer) ($42.5 million) 10. Peyton Manning (American Football) ($42.4 million) Other Notable Names: 11. Lionel Messi (Soccer) ($39 million) 26. Maria Sharapova (Tennis) ($27.9 million) 31. Mahendra Singh Dhoni (Cricket) ($26.5 million) 37. Wayne Rooney (Soccer) ($24.3 million) 62. Novak Djokovic (Tennis) ($20.6 million) 63. Usain Bolt (Athletics) ($20.3 million) 78. Sachin Tendulkar (Cricket) ($18.6 million).
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
Page 43
Page 44
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
Page 45
HIGHLIGHTS
Performances by Michael Phelps and Usain Bolt could make London Olympics most watched ever READ MORE ON PAGE 46
Miami Heat whip Oklahoma under to become NBA Champions LeBron James was crowned king of the basketball world on Thursday, finally claiming the achievement he craved most when he led the Miami Heat to the National Basketball Association title. James was unanimously named most valuable player (MVP) of the series after he conjured a triple-double of 26 points, 11 rebounds and 13 assists to boost the Heat to a 121-106 win for a 4-1 series victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. The triumph came in his third trip to the finals and brought James, widely considered the world's best player, a sense of relief and vindication over his decision to leave his home-state Cleveland Cavaliers and join forces with fellow free agents Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh in Miami. As the final seconds ticked away, the 27-year-old James jumped up and down for joy, spread his arms wide and roared along with the wild celebrations engulfing the American Airlines Arena. Confetti rained down from the rafters as James exchanged hugs and
broad smiles with his team mates and coaches. Three league MVP awards, four All-Defensive team selection, and Rookie of the Year honors had already bloated the NBA list of achievements for James, a basketball prodigy whose St Vincent-St Mary High School games were televised nationally. But it took the self-proclaimed 'King James' nine seasons to earn the elusive NBA ring that has now made him an undisputed winner. "I dreamed about this opportunity and this moment for a long time, including last night," the 6ft-8in, 250 pound James said. "My dream has become a reality now and it's the best feeling I ever had. "It's about damn time!" Rather than universal adulation for his basketball prowess, James has been treated as a villain across much of the NBA landscape since joining the Heat in 2010. James yearned to improve his chances of becoming a champion when he formed a troika with Wade and Bosh, yet he was branded a traitor
Djokovic and Sharapova Top Seeds for Wimbledon
Novak Djokovic
Maria Sharapova
LONDON - Champion Novak Djokovic and French Open winner Maria Sharapova were named as top seeds for Wimbledon as the grasscourt grand slam mostly followed the rankings to draw up the list for the championships that begin on Monday. In the men's side, Rafa Nadal, Roger Federer and Andy Murray completed the top four while defending women's champion Petra Kvitova was seeded forth. Serena Williams was seeded sixth but her sister Venus, champion five times in southwest London, will be the one player the majority of the seeds will want to avoid as she missed out on a top 32 placing since she is currently ranked 55th. Rising talent Bernard Tomic was the main beneficiary of Wimbledon's policy to take grasscourt form into consideration and the Australian was bumped up to 20th seed from his world ranking of 27. Three-times men's runner-up Andy Roddick squeezed into the seedings following the withdrawal of world number 15 Frenchman Gael Monfils through injury. The American, ranked 33rd, was named as the 30th seed.
Dwyane Wade holds the NBA championship trophy and LeBron James holds his most valuable player trophy after the Miami Heat won Game 5 on Thursday night.
by some for leaving the Cavs, whom he had taken from cellar-dwellers to the 2007 NBA Finals during his seven seasons there after they made him top pick of the 2003 draft. Many wanted to see James stay the course in Cleveland, where the franchise failed to surround him with enough championship material to turn his dream into reality. Then came "The Decision", an hour-long TV special in which James announced where he would be making his basketball home. That self-absorbed promotion turned a large segment off and even more were alienated by his declaration he would "bring my talents to South Beach" and form a Big Three with Wade and Bosh. It seemed almost unfair to many NBA followers, who felt players were now dictating the hierarchy of teams. At a pep rally celebrating the signing of the trio with music blaring and lights flashing, James promised the Miami faithful a bushel of titles, "not four, not five, not six". HUMBLE DEFEAT The Heat were booed and jeered at every road game. Sure enough, James and his cohorts reached the NBA Finals against the Dallas Mavericks in their first year together. But after taking a 2-1 series lead, they lost the next three with James accused of shrinking from the challenge of taking charge at the end of the games. "The best thing that happened to me last year was losing the finals," James said. "And me playing the way I played, it was the best thing to ever happen to me in my career because basically I got back to the basics. It
humbled me. "Last year, I tried to prove something to everyone and I played with a lot of hate. This year I played with a lot of love. "This is the happiest day of my life." This season, a more mature James accepted his leadership role and calmed himself before games by reading books in the locker room and relaxing to ease the pressured expectations. Hailed as the heir to six-time NBA champion Michael Jordan of the Chicago Bulls as a Sports Illustrated cover boy 10 years ago while a high school junior, James has now taken his first step in what seemed a preordained path. After averaging a disappointing 17.8 points in last year's losing bid against Dallas, James averaged 28.6 points, 10.2 rebounds and 7.4 assists against the Thunder. Heat team mate Shane Battier, a 13-year NBA veteran, said this week that James needed an NBA title to confirm his greatness in the eyes of the sports universe. "Whether we like it or not, that's the way we value icons in our society," Battier said. "It's how many Oscars have you won, how many Nobel Peace Prizes have you won. Have you been published in the Harvard Business Review? What were your earnings last year as a CEO? "If you want to be remembered as one of the greatest, you need it. You need it. You can be great but it's difficult to reach the pantheon without it." Now James has his ring, and can settle in comfortably in the pantheon.
Page 46
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
WORLD SPORTS
JUNE 23RD -JUNE 30TH 2012
Pacquiao wins WBO review, prefers rematch with Bradley The WBO has confirmed what everyone already knew… Manny Pacquiao won his match earlier this month. Manny Pacquiao says he wants a rematch with Timothy Bradley after a fivejudge panel assembled by the WBO championship committee unanimously favored the Filipino fighter in a video review. Pacquiao said Thursday he would prefer a rematch rather than Bradley giving up the WBO welterweight title that he won on a split decision because "people may think I just usurped it." The five judges on the review panel all scored the fight in Pacquiao's favor — 117111, 117-111, 118-110, 116-112 and 115113. At the June 9 bout in Las Vegas, judge Jerry Roth had it 115-113 for Pacquiao, and Duane Ford and C.J. Ross had it for Bradley by the same score. The Associated Press scored it 117-111 for Pacquiao. "My supporters shouldn't worry. We're going to get that title," Pacquiao said. The WBO can't overturn the result of the fight. June 9th, Bradley was awarded a split
decision Saturday night and ending the Filipino fighter's remarkable seven-year unbeaten run. Promoter Bob Arum fumed, the crowd at the MGM Grand arena booed, and Pacquiao seemed stunned when the
decision was announced. Arum said there would be a November rematch, though he blasted the way the decision went down. "I've never been as ashamed of the sport of boxing as I am tonight," said Arum, who handles both fighters.
Bradley came on strong in the later rounds, winning five of the last six rounds on two scorecards and four on the third. He won 115-113 on two scorecards, while losing on the third by the same margin. The Associated Press had Pacquiao winning 117-111. The controversial bout ended a 15fight winning streak by Pacquiao dating to 2005 that turned him into a boxing superstar and made him a national hero in the Philippines. "I thought I won the fight," Bradley said. "I didn't think he was as good as everyone says he was. I didn't feel his power." Ringside punching statistics showed Pacquiao landing 253 punches to 159 for Bradley, who vowed before the fight to take the 147-pound title from Pacquiao. The Compubox statistics showed Pacquiao landing more punches in 10 of the 12 rounds. Bradley was so confident that he had oversized tickets printed up for a Nov. 10 rematch that will now likely happen.
Performances by Michael Phelps US Open and Usain Bolt could make London champion Simpson to Olympics most watched ever “(The London Olympics) have a chance to be the most highly viewed Olympics ever,” said Janey Marks, Getty Images’ director of Olympic programs and strategic alliances. Her opinion should carry a lot of weight because she will working at her ninth Games going back to 1984. Marks said the number of “cool stories” involving Team USA range from swimmer Michael Phelps’ pursuit to be the most decorated Olympic athlete of all time to the introduction of women’s boxing. Phelps, who won eight gold medals in as many events at the 2008 Beijing Games, could compete in up to seven events in the Games that run from July 27 through Aug. 12. The US has qualified women in all three weight classes in women’s boxing with Queen Underwood at lightweight, Marlen Esparza at flyweight and Claressa Shields at middleweight. Marks also cited the men’s and women’s basketball teams who are favored to win gold, a much-anticipated rematch of the World Cup final between the U.S. women’s soccer team and Japan, the women’s indoor volleyball team favored to capture gold and Brady Ellison, the world’s top-ranked archer. “Another great story will be (track and field) sprinter) Usain Bolt (of Jamaica), who set world records in the 100-meter and 200-meter events in 2008, likely to win gold again in 2012,” Marks said. While NBC Sports and its affiliates have the exclusive TV rights, Getty Images has been the authorized photographic agency for the
miss British Open
L-R: Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps
International Olympic Committee (IOC) since 1988 as well as being the official partners of the U.S. Olympic Committee. Getty’s images also appear on the NBC.com web site and AOL. In addition, NBCOlympics.com will live stream every event and sport for the first time. Once competition begins, there will be 302 events at more than 42 venues. Getty Images will shoot one million frames, according to Marks, and edit them down to approximately 50,000 images for posting to its web site. A team of 110 people, including 37 editorial photographers and 17 IOC and sponsor dedicated photographers, will be involved. One of Getty Images’ prime
functions is to provide same-day still content to sponsors such as Visa, Proctor & Gamble, Coca-Cola, General Electric, AT&T, Hilton, Kellogg’s and Oakley’s so they can produce an advertisement almost immediately. Every medal ceremony is available for the use of sponsors. Marks also cited the depth and breadth of more than 100 years of archives as a resource that sponsors appreciate. New features for these Games include the employment of 3D as well as 360-degree panoramic views and robotics technology, a still camera rig that can be installed to provide full camera control and transmission remotely.
U.S. Open champion Webb Simpson will miss next month's British Open at Royal Lytham in order to be with his wife for the birth of their second child. The 26-year-old American won his first major championship on Sunday when he edged compatriot Michael Thompson and Britain's Graeme McDowell by one stroke at the Olympic Club in San Francisco. I'm a guy who loves my family and...I have the rest of my life to play in the British Open," Simpson told reporters. "I don't want to miss the birth of my second child so it's an easy decision. I'd love to go and try to win another major but in the grand scheme of things it's a decision I know I'll always be happy I made." Simpson's victory at the weekend lifted him to fifth in the world rankings and up to third in the U.S. Ryder Cup points table ahead of the match against holders Europe in Illinois in September. The British Open, the year's third major, starts on July 19.
TURKS AND CAICOS SUN
JUNE 23RD - JUNE 30TH, 2012
Page 47
Published by SUN MEDIA GROUP, Turks and Caicos Islands I Tel: 649-946-8542 I Fax: 649-941-3281