SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
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VOLUME 11 - NO. 36
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SUICIDE POSSIBLE IN HOWELL’S DEATH by Vivian Tyson & Todeline Defralien
P
olice said there is a possibility that the sharp force wounds that killed Rev. Dr. Conrad Howell were selfinflicted. Speaking at a media conference at Police Headquarters, Providenciales on Friday, September 18th, Acting Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams said: “Based on our findings at the scene to date and the pathology report, together is that there is a strong possibility that the injures could, or might have been self inflicted.” Adams said an autopsy was conducted Wednesday, by a Bahamian pathologist, who identified certain wounds on 52-year-old Howell’s body. “The pathologist report has stated as cause of death ‘sharp force injuries to the upper and lower extremities’. Also as an opinion from the pathologist in her report, she has reported ‘52-year-old black male Rev. Conrad Howell died of sharp force injuries to the upper and lower extremities that cause injuries to blood vassals, which all contributed to blood loss and death . ‘The other injuries, including scratches and contusions, bruises in short were superficial without evidence of internal blunt trauma and occurred on or about the time of his death but did not contribute to his death. The injuries are consistent with reports of where and how Mr. Howell was found,” Adams told the news conference. He added: “I wish to also inform the public and you that are present here, that based on our investigator findings at the scene where Mr. Howell was found, certain evidence was collected that
The organizing committee for “In The Pink,” an annual fundraising event for the TCI Cancer Society met recently to unveil plans for the upcoming 7th Annual soiree to be held on Saturday, October 10th at The Palms Turks and Caicos. Pictured from front left: Karen Whitt, Folusa Ladejobi, Shanta Narinesingh , Rosemary Jolly Back left: Lisa Hall, Yadviga Dzieduszynska, Hazel Rush, MaryLou Vanderheide, Easher Parker, Honorable Josephine Connolly, Jenny Capili. supported the findings of the postmortem of the deceased. “And I wish to again extend our sympathies to the family of Dr. Conrad Howell friends and relatives.” According to the Acting Commissioner, they have ruled out murder based on their evidence so far, but they are still collecting evidence. Asked to clarify reports as to whether or not poison was found in Howell’s system, Adams said the toxicology report, which is not back yet, would make such determination. “What I can say is
that toxicology tests have been taken and those and those examinations would form part of our investigations going forward,” Adams said. The body of Dr. Howell, who at the time of his death was the host of the Radio Turks and Caicos talk show “Expressions”, and the People’s Television (PTV) show “On Your Mind”, was found in bushes off Horizontal Drive in the Blue Mountain area. Dr. Howell also served on the National Honors and Awards Committee, president and joint owner of the University College of
Providenciales, immediate Past President of the Providenciales Ministerial Fellowship and author of the National Song - “We Salute This Land of Ours”. Sometime Friday morning, September 11, 2015, Dr. Howell’s family members reported him missing, saying that he left the house late Thursday night for what should have been a brief period outside but did not return. It is understood that he went outside dressed in a singlet (merino), a black pants and socks. He made not calls to his family, and calls to his phone went unanswered. Once he did not return by certain time, persons began to become suspicious, saying it was out of character for him to be out of contact for so long without contacting anyone. As a result, family members and concern citizens initiated a search sometime Friday, and by the end of the day, information was sent out for persons to join a massive hunt planned for Saturday morning and spearheaded by Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing.
The search, comprising persons of all nationalities living in the Turks and Caicos Islands, started a little after 6a.m., with a number of areas scoured, including in the vicinity of his Blue Mountain house. Searches were also conducted in Five Cays, Long Bay, the Kew Town area and its environs including behind the Providenciales International Airport, and in the Blue Hills area. Oscar, national of the Dominic Republic, who later joined the hunt, was accompanied by his Potcake dog “Coco”, which found the body of the pastor and talk show host in bushes off Horizontal Road in the Richmond Hill area. Shortly after Dr. Howell’s body was found, tributes poured in from all walks of life, including from His Excellency Governor Peter Beckingham, Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing, who staged a news conference later that day and Leader of the Opposition Hon. Sharlene Cartwright Robinson.
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LOCAL NEWS
SUICIDE POSSIBLE IN HOWELL’S DEATH
Continued from Page 1
Premier Ewing, during the news conference at his office later that day, said that Dr. Howell’s death came at a time when the country was grappling with a great deal of unsolved murders. He said that no one loved the Turks and Caicos Islands as Dr. Howell. “Dr. Howell’s death came as a shock to all of us in our beloved Turks and Caicos Islands because he was one who represented what Turks and Caicos ought to be and is all about. (He was) someone who loved this country, someone who fought for the values what this country was built upon, someone who served in many capacities and championing and fighting for the rights of fellow
citizens, fighting for the rights in mourning his tragic death. His passing is in every respect of a free Turks and Caicos. “He was known to be a bleak day for the Turks and a man of God, a family man, a Caicos Islands. gentle giant in his own rights. “As I said to Conrad Howell’s With all of his accomplishments wife in a note to her on Saturday, and his patriotism, and his I had the good fortune to meet spirit, he will be deeply missed Conrad on several occasions. by all of us here in these islands,” His good humour and wit were much in evidence, even when the premier said. Governor Beckingham, we were the most friendly of in a press statement, described sparring partners on his hugely Dr. Howell as a beacon of light, popular radio broadcast. I also recounting his meeting with the mentioned to Mrs Howell how struck I was by Conrad’s powerful deceased as good fortune. “I was deeply upset to presence at the National Hero’s learn of the untimely passing Day commemorations just a few of Dr Conrad Howell at the months ago in Grand Turk. weekend. A beacon of light in “Our country has this weekend TCI has been extinguished, and lost one of its own national I join the Premier, leader of the heroes, whose contribution to opposition and many others religion, broadcasting,
Rev. Dr. Conrad Howell education and the community at large will be deeply missed. But at least his presence will stay
with us forever in the beautiful words of the National Hymn,” Governor Beckingham said.
7th annual In the Pink on October 10th On October 10th, The Palms Parallel 23 restaurant. The after-party Turks & Caicos will host its 7th annual includes live music and charming “In the Pink” event to raise money for “guest bartenders” serving up themed TCI’s Cancer Society. cocktails and raffle giveaways. Another exciting twist during The event plays host to a shopping frenzy and a lavish after-party the PINK after-party will be the and PINK Poker Tournament at The premiere of Jack Lightbourne’s and Palms Courtyard with music featuring the TCI much anticipated “Take Me to TCI’s own Prime DJ’s, cocktails, a Paradise” music video – celebrating the silent auction and fun giveaways. number one Island Destination, Turks With donations from corporate and Caicos. businesses and individuals, the team “We’re absolutely thrilled will transform several of the suites to partner with the National Cancer into a shopping paradise, allowing Society as we join the fight against buyers to snag excellent bargains on a breast cancer, and we are extremely wide selection of new and gently used excited to support such a worthy cause” clothing, shoes, accessories and even said Karen Whitt, General Manager some designer items. of The Palms Turks and Caicos and After the shopping zone closes, committee member of the event since its the fun continues with a superb after- inception. We especially thank all the party in the elegantly pink-decorated volunteers, sponsors and participants courtyard in front of the famed who have supported us in the past and
once again pledged support for this year’s event.” Something new for this year is a partnership with Lee Ingham, KONK Apparel who has created a unique design especially for the event, and t-shirts will be on sale during the evening, and all year long at the Palms, all proceeds being donated to the Cancer Society. Breast cancer is a widespread disease that universally impacts our society as a whole. Early detection is key to successfully treating the disease. We are proud to partner with The National Cancer Society to help spread the word about prevention, and to provide much needed assistance for treatment to those persons afflicted with this terrible disease. In the Pink, a powerful and inspiring event was created 6 years ago
to honor breast cancer survivors, raise awareness about steps individuals can take to reduce the risk of getting breast cancer, and raise money to assist those persons locally who require additional assistance with extensive treatments. The Event Organizing Committee comprises: Honorable Josephine Connolly, Karen Whitt, Foluso Ladejobi, MaryLou Vanderheide, Lucille Lightbourne, Shanta Narinesingh, Jenny Capili, Yadviga Dzieduszynska, Hazel Rush, Rosemary Jolly, Lisa Hall and Easher Parker. Room Hostesses are: Honorable Josephine Connolly and friends Mary Lou Vanderheide and friends Foluso Ladejobi and friends National Cancer Society volunteers and friends
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
Second floor premiere office space
is waiting for your
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SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
Premier reveals cost of new vehicles for Cabinet Ministers He said the lease agreement for the Tahoe vehicles was made on the 26th day of March for the vehicles, seven of which will be based in Grand Turks and six in Providenciales. The Premier said that the Speaker and Other Members’ Salary and Allowances Ordinance, only makes provision for vehicles for members of this House and of Cabinet to be leased only and not purchased. “That was the whole basis of the dispute why it took me about a year plus just to procure a vehicle for the office of Premier in Provo,” Premier Ewing added. He told the House that while the Public Procurement Ordinance outlines the needs for transparency and accountability, there also needs to be a balance to ensure that information that is held in commercial confidence to bidders be protected from exposure
By Todeline Defralien
The new vehicles which were recently imported for Cabinet ministers and the Speaker of the House of Assembly will cost close to half-million dollars to lease, it was revealed by Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing. The Premier told the House of Assembly meeting in Grand Turk on Monday September 14th, 2015, that the 13 sports utility vehicles (SUVs) are being leased from Butterfield Motors at a cost of $9,319 a month for 48 months (four years). He was responding to a question from Leader of the Opposition Hon. Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson about the total number of vehicles, the make, model and year, the cost of each and the broad terms of the purchase or lease agreement.
to competitors. “Therefore, Mr. Speaker, in response to the Hon. Leader of the Opposition’s question, it is inappropriate for the lease agreement to be laid to the House of Assembly in its entirety especially in the absence
of consent from the vendor or to do so due to the concerns that I have just raised”. So we can lay it but we would have to lay it with the consent of the vendor because obviously this is of a competitive bid,” said the Premier.
No more cash collections at Customs Department The Ministry of Finance announced that cash collections will be discontinued at the Customs Department’s main offices in Grand Turk and Providenciales, effective as of October 13, 2015. All Cash payments for the Customs Department will now be collection at the Treasury, Front Street in Grand Turk or Town Centre Mall, Downtown, Providenciales. The mains offices of the
Customs Department will however continue to collect by way of Visa and MasterCard denominated Debit/Credit cards, cheques, bank drafts and cashiers cheques. Payments can also be made by Visa and MasterCard denominated Debit/Credit cards at Road Safety Department in Providenciales and Revenue Control Department in Providenciales and Grand Turk. Until further notice, all other collection points such as the
Post Office, Customs operations at the seaports, airports and warehouses, and Immigration Department at the airport will continue to collect cash. A press release from Government said this new measure is aimed at increasing efficiency and reducing potential security risk to employees and the public. The release added: “Please be reminded that all returned cheques will attract surcharges to
cover the cost of bank and handling fees. In addition, all violators will be placed on a watch list at the Treasury and cheques will no longer be an acceptable means of making payments to TCIG for those in breach, due to insufficient funds. At the sole discretion of the Accountant General Department, violators may be reinstated and allowed to pay by cheques after a waiting period of at least 12 months.”
Blue Haven Resort & Marina is inviting suitable applications for the following position: ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE/INCOME AUDITOR
OASIS DIVERS is seeking applications from suitably qualified candidates for the following positions. The successful applicants must:
GUEST SERVICES SUPERVISOR
-Have at least 5 years’ experience in management in the hospitality industry and at least 1 year experience in tourism industry. -Possess the ability to remain calm in a high stress environment -Be well spoken with English as primary language -Have a valid passport -Be at least 25 years old -Have a clean criminal record -Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including on weekends and Public Holidays, as necessary to meet the challenging needs of the cruise ship schedule and/or reasonable needs of the business
CERTIFIED DIVERS -Hold a valid diving certification of Dive master or higher -Be at least 25 years old -Have a clean critminal record -Have a valid passport -Hold a valid certification in CPR and First Aid -Have at least 3 years’ experience in the tourism and hospitality industry. Other experience in the tourism industry would be an asset -Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including on weekends and Public Holidays, as necessary to meet the challenging needs of the cruise ship schedule and/or reasonable needs of the business Preference will be given to documented Turks and Caicos Islanders Written applications only and accompanying CVs/resumes must be addressed to the Manager at the following address:
Cee’s Plaza, Suite No. 1 Church Folly PO Box 86 Grand Turk Turks & Caicos Islands
OASIS DIVING, LTD. c/o EPIC Corporate & Consultancy Services Ltd. Phone: 649-946-1128 Fax: 649-946-1128 Email: oasisdiv@tciway.tc
The Blue Haven Resort & Marina is currently seeking a dynamic, experienced and motivated individual who will report to the resort’s Financial Controller. RESPONSIBILITIES •Ensures that Marketplace sales and tenders (cash, credit cards, room charges, etc.) are well accounted for on a daily basis and promptly posted to Property Management System (IQWare). •Ascertains that retail clerks/cashier’s drops and end of day deposits balanced out. Investigate any discrepancies and prepares exception reports. •Prepares daily deposits and coordinates with cash-in-transit agency to ensure that asset is secured. •Room charges, breakfast credits, discounts are properly documented and authorized. •Monitors and reconciles daily collections. •Conducts surprise cash counts of floats and cash registers. •Participates in inventory counts. •Ensures that outstanding Accounts Receivable are reconciled and collected (OTA’s, Wholesalers, Special Events, etc.) •Ensures that all supporting documents are accessible and filed appropriately. •Ensure the confidentiality and security of all financial files and information. •Any other duties that may be assigned from time to time. JOB REQUIREMENTS •To perform this job successfully, the individual must be able to perform each essential duties satisfactorily. •A Bachelor’s Degree in Accountancy or equivalent qualification •Preferably a CPA or CMA, or equivalent professional designation •Must be able to use Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Pivot tables, etc.) •Excellent team player with team building skills •Excellent writer and oral communication skills Salary for these positions will commensurate with qualifications and experience. Belongers need only apply. Please Submit Applications to: hr@bluehaventci.com A copy should also be submitted to the TCI Labour Department. Submissions to be no later than September 25th, 2015 Turks and Caicos Islanders need only apply.
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LOCAL NEWS
Meet Coco, the Potcake that discovers Rev. Howell’s body By Vivian Tyson
Senior Sun Editor Kudos came in from all sections of the Turks and Caicos Islands society for Coco, the semi-trained Potcake which discovered the body of the apparently slain Pastor and media practitioner Rev. Dr. Conrad Howell . Coco, which joined the search mid Saturday morning (September 12th, 2015, with his owner, who goes by the name “Oscar”, found Dr. Howell’s body shortly after joining the quest. Praises came from all sections of the society, including from the Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing. The premier highlighted that Coco played a great role in narrowing the search and eventually finding the body. He
Coco and Oscar are captured shortly after finding Dr. Howell’s body. said that the potcake found the body at a time when the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police plane was in The Bahamas to pick up bloodhounds to join the search locally. “We are grateful for the assistance of that dog. It was very helpful in narrowing the search and
finding the body. The (Turks and Caicos Islands) police plane had just landed in The Bahamas, when they found the body. That plane went there to collect some of the Bahamian bloodhounds that are trained by the canine unit in the Bahamas,” he said. Oscar, who spoke to the media sometime after the body was found, said that he had the dog for few years and trained her not only to fetch items but also to search and recover. Oscar told the media that when he was contacted to assist with the search, there was no doubt in his mind that Coco would have been successful if there was a body somewhere. “I trained her to search for things all the time, and so, I knew that she would do the job. She found the
body not long after we began searching,” Oscar bragged. Coco also racked up a number of likes on social media, especially on popular site Facebook, after a photograph of the canine was posted with a police officer. There were also calls for the dog to be made a constable. In the meantime, Premier Ewing pointed out that given the number of unsolved murders in the TCI, there is need for a canine unit that would also search for drugs and other contraband. “Giving the number of so-called missing persons in Turks and Caicos, it is good to investing in a full-fledge canine unit to search not only for drugs but for humans, and the bloodhounds to go out and search,” he said.
Poacher vessel apprehended near Seal Cay
A poacher vessel, with two poachers on board, was apprehended on Sunday, 13 September, after Enforcement Officers from the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA) and the Marine Police noted suspicious activities in TCI waters. The men, Dominican Republic Nationals, were apprehended two miles off of Seal Cay, at around 10 am on Sunday morning. They were found to be in possession of an illegal speargun, breathing apparatus, as well as just 35 lbs of illegal catch, including Parrot Fish, and Lobster. “The weather conditions were against us for an operation of this kind, but we are very grateful for
the effort of both the Police and DEMA Officers that were involved. Although there were more poachers that we could not apprehend safely, the Officers were very professional in the way they handled the situation. This type of illegal fishing is the biggest threat to TCI fisheries and we need to continue sending a strong message to foreign poachers,” said DEMA Director, Dr. John Claydon. The Poachers will face charges for the following contraventions to the Fisheries Protection Ordinance: • Taking marine product without a license; • Taking marine product using breathing apparatus;
• Possession of a speargun; • Taking marine product by use of a speargun; • Use of an unlicensed vessel; • Possession of egg-bearing lobster; and • Possession of parrot fish. The individuals will remain in custody until they are processed by the Court on Wednesday. DEMA would like to encourage the public to report any suspicious fishing activity observed in our waters and would like to remind all that if one is found to be in contravention of any of the regulations of the Fisheries Protection Ordinance, that one could face up to a $50,000 fine, 12 months’ imprisonment, or both.
Job Title: IP/VAS Engineer Location: Digicel TCI Leeward Highway, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands
Primary Objective of the Job:
The IP/VAS Engineer will be responsible for the real-time management of all VAS, HSPA/LTE Core (Mobile packet core), Broadband IP based networks. They will assist in the design and implementation of all IP Core, Mobile Packet Core and Charging System Networks. They will also manage and maintain Policy and Charging Infrastructure. They will provide first-line identification and resolution of faults, and ensure that all required documentation is maintained in a timely basis.
The Alexandra Resort & Villas Ltd., is seeking to fill the following line positions: •Room Attendant •Housemen •Gardener To qualify for these positions you should be able to push/pull carts weighing up to 150 lbs. Must be able to ensure the cleanliness of all areas assigned, which may include guest rooms, public areas, linen closets, walls, floors, gardens and grounds. Must be able to stand for long periods of time and also have the ability to climb several stairs several times each day. Salaries for these positions will commensurate with qualifications and experience. Resume and references can be delivered to our Human Resources Department or emailed to hr@alexandraresort.com A copy should also be submitted to the TCI Labour Department. Submissions to be no later than September 25th, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDERS NEED ONLY APPLY
Main Duties & Responsibilities: •Responsible for the design, installation and support of all Packet Core and IP based systems to support the technical operations of the business. •Design IP Numbering an addressing schemes, Development, Configuration and Implementation of IP based systems •Perform dimensioning and capacity planning of IP network •Planning, designing and management of all Mobile Packet Core technologies. •Management and maintenance of all Ericsson Charging System Nodes CCN, SDP, AIR. •Management and maintenance of all Packet Core systems which include, Ericsson SGSN-MME, EPG, Ericsson Mobile Packet Backbone Network (MPBN) for LTE, WCDMA, DNS and AAA. •Responsible for operation and maintenance of all Policy and Mobile Data Billing Systems •Responsible for all IP based systems, which include Cisco network devices (Routers and Switches), SUN Solaris/Linux servers, Checkpoint and Juniper Firewalls to ensure their high availability. •Managing and coordinating activities that involves updates and changes by external partners in including Roaming and ISP upstream providers. •Develop and schedule preventative and corrective maintenance policies and procedures, such as regular backups, spares inventory, to ensure high availability of all VAS and IP based systems. •Ensure that Digicel TCI continue to operate on secure local and wide area networks with the implementation of VPN technologies and firewall policy management •Ensure that network metrics are closely monitored (QoS and KPIs) and captured so as to provide proactive network management, as well as regular feedback on network performance in the form of reports to management •Provide IP Support to other departments and external parties as required
. Academic qualifications and experience required for the job •5-7 years’ experience in VAS and IP based network design, implementation and administration •CCNA, CCNP certification and Solid hands on experience with Cisco devices •In-depth knowledge of switching, routing, technologies, DNS, Mobile data LTE, WCDMA, GSM •In-depth knowledge of Ericsson Charging System, CCN, SDP, AIR. •In-depth knowledge and experience with UNIX and/or Linux systems. •Design, implementation and operational knowledge of network security (VPN, firewall management, intrusion detection) •Knowledge of ISP/Service provider IP configurations •Minimum of a Bachelors Degree in Computer Sciences. DEADLINE: Interested applicants should forward their Resume and Cover letter to hrtci@digicelgroup.com on or before September 28th, 2015
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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Premier calls for special unsolved murder investigative team By Vivian Tyson
Senior Sun Editor The British Government, which is responsible for security in the Turks and Caicos Islands, should dispatch a special murder-solving team to the Turks and Caicos Islands to assist with the solving of murders, according to Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing. The Premier made those comments while addressing a news conference to update the media on the death of media practitioner, social justice advocate and minister of the gospel, Rev. Dr. Conrad Howell, on Saturday, September 12, 2015. Dr. Howell Body was found in bushes along Horizontal Road in the Blue Mountain area in the vicinity of the law firm Missick and Stanbrook, almost two days after he was reported missing. The Premier, in what appeared to be a clear call for an investigative team similar to that of the Special Investigation and Prosecution Team (SIPT), said such a team is needed immediately. “I, for one, know that you (police) need resources, so I am calling
on the British Government, I am calling on the FCO, if you need to bring in your special team - you have done it before for other things - so take this opportunity and bring in your special team. We need individuals with special skills to solve these murders in the Turks and Caicos Islands,” the Premier urged. In the meantime, the Premier said he would make every attempt to ensure that the House of Assembly provides the necessary resources the police force needs to tackle arrest criminality and crack the current unsolved murders. He noted that the death of Dr. Howell, who was the chaplain for the ruling Progressive National Party (PNP) and the Premier’s envoy to the United Nations (UN), came as a tremendous shock, adding that no one loved the country more than Dr. Howell. “Dr. Howell’s death came as a shock to all of us in our beloved Turks and Caicos Islands because he was one who represented what Turks and Caicos ought to be and is all about. (He was) someone who loved this country, someone who fought for the values what this country was
built upon, someone who served in many capacities and championing and fighting for the rights of fellow citizens, fighting for the rights of a free Turks and Caicos. “He was known to be a man of God, a family man, a gentle giant in his own rights. With all of his accomplishments and his patriotism, and his spirit, he will be deeply missed by all of us here in these islands,” the premier said. He said that his death came at a time when the country is grappling with a litany of unsolved murders dating back more than several years. “Rev. Howell’s death comes at a time when this country is being challenged and troubled by the increasing number of crime and the violent crimes in our society. It comes at a time when we are finding ourselves not having answers to these crimes. It comes at a time when we require for individuals and governments and the British Government and the governor and everyone else to step up to the plate to address these concerns in our society. “Rev. Howell’s death is just another death in the string of so called murders in or beloved Turks
and Caicos Islands over the past several years, to which no closure has been brought, where families across the Turks and Caicos Islands are still grieving because no closures have been brought to the circumstances surrounding their deaths. His death, like the others, is one death too many in our beloved Turks and Caicos Islands,” he said. In the meantime, the premier has called upon the society to respond to assisting the police in solving crimes the same way they turned out to search for Dr. Howell. “I would encourage our residents that, in the same manner they came out in numbers today, to assist and willing to give a helping hand, the same manner I expect for all of you to come out and give information that you may have for the police force to help solve this case, and not only this case, but all of those other cases that remain unsolved throughout the years, from Constable Prince Smith, to Robbie Been, to Dorsette Gardiner, to Quincy Gardiner, to Robert Martinez, to Kenley Walters, to Kevino Smith in Grand Turk, whose case remains unsolved,” he said.
Spt. Kenny Grant praises community support for Howell search am happy and proud to see so many of us from different walks of life, who Senior Sun Editor came out and made this happened,” Superintendent of Police Grant said. He told the searchers that Kendall “Kenny” Grant is urging residents of the Turks and Caicos the police would be calling on them Islands to show the same level of in the future for assistance to arrest cohesion going forward as it did during criminality in the Turks and Caicos the search for Rev. Dr. Conrad Howell, Islands. “From a policing perspective, who was found dead in bushes on we will be calling on every member of Saturday, September 12, 2015. Grant, who was speaking to the community to assist whenever your searchers near the scene where the assistance is required. We need your body of the pastor, talk show host and support. I know sometimes when we educator’s body was found, said that call for support, I know the complaints if the community show such level of we have been having. “But if we are to take back our support for crime-fighting the way it did for Howell’s search. island back under control, give our The search for Rev. Dr. Howell, youth direction and ensure that we drew support for a wide cross-section of have a safe and productive community, society and the scores of nationalities it is going to take a whole community represented here. When his body was to do that. We have moved away from the saying that it takes a community found, few non-teary eyes remained. “We are a community; we must to raise a child; that was back then, stand together as one. If we are going but it still stands now,” he said. Grant said that only when to defeat crime in this country, we need everybody, every citizen, every visitor the people of the country show resolve Spt. Kenny Grant to get on board, let’s make this happen. against criminality that we would be said as it stands now, criminals are This is a good community effort and I able to get crime under control. He feeding off the fears of persons in the community, saying that a number of Regulation 7 of the Physical Planning persons fail to tell the authorities what they know because of fear of reprisals. (Development Permission) Regulations, 1990 “We must send a clear message to them that we will not tolerate crime in this community anymore. We need An Application, REGISTERED AC-108, by Ambergris Cay each person to assist us in finding the Ltd has been submitted to the Department of Planning for person who is responsible, and we consideration of a project to support planned residential ask for your commitment. We can’t development at the Future Marina Site adjacent to the stand around and hear that we fear retaliation. Entrance Channel on Ambergris Cay. The Project will “They are living off of that beautify the “Marina Area” by excavating the salt flats to fear. We must send the fear back to the top of rock (approximately -2 FT MLW on average) and them and letting them know that we provide tidal exchange between the marina and entrance are a community and we will not stand for this, no matter who it might be, channel. The project is located at block/parcel 20502/556. family, friend who or whoever. This (Rev. Howell’s death) could happen to Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in any one of us or our family members, writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand innocently. “We can walk into a store, we Turk or through the Department of Planning, Emily House, can be doing our daily chores. We must Leeward Highway, Providenciales, within twenty eight (28) take a stand, take pride in ourselves, By Vivian Tyson
days of publication of this Notice.
take pride in our community , let’s extend a helping hand to each other,” he Grant urged. He said that since policing is a joint venture, it would take both the police and the community to make it work. “ We are calling on you for your support, we can’t do this alone. Policing is a partnership, so we must join hands in partnership and make Turks and Caicos a safer place for residents and visitors alike, that we can enjoy these beautiful by nature islands. We say we are beautiful, I say we must be beautiful in every way and in every sense of the word,” Grant reiterated. He added: “We need you to stand by this family at this time and we need you to assist us in finding the persons responsible. Do not hold back information. We continue to talk about we are afraid. We have to take a stand. We must take a stand.”
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
Fire hydrants absence causes Leeward home destruction
By Vivian Tyson
Senior Sun Editor Had the Leeward Community been equipped with readily accessible fire hydrant, the inferno which razed a home in that community early Thursday morning, September 10, 2015, according to Fire Chief William Jennings. Jennings, in an interview with The SUN, said that two of the three fire units which visited 16 Tranquility Lane in Leeward Estate to battle the blaze, were forced to make several trips more than two miles to the Robbie Been Plaza in Grace Bay, to fill up at the hydrant there, which he said prevented them from effectively tackling the fire. He said that Leeward has no hydrants, and while hydrants are located along the roadway leading to Leeward, they are in the middling of the road, which could endanger the lives of firefighters in the event they attempt to extract water from those sources. He said the next best thing would have been to block off the road in order to access water from the hydrants, but decided against that idea because it could become cumbersome to both the firefighters and nocturnal traffic. He said that as a result of having to leave the scene several times to fill up the huge house was totally gutted. He said that it took firefighters almost seven to bring the blaze under control, having visited the scene little after 12 a.m. and left some time after 7a.m.
At press time no motive was established for the fire. “We had to go by Robbie Been Plaza because that was the closest one that we could get easy access to. There are others close by but they are in the middle of the road. We can’t have people in the road like that because it endangers their lives, and we didn’t want to shut the road down either. We would get the fire under control and every time we leave to fill back up, it got out of control again. Leeward do not have any hydrant. There is a hydrant by the fuel plant, but that is private,” he said. Jennings said that the fire department has made representation to government to address the hydrant issue. He said pressure needs to be put on property owners to place hydrants in the vicinity of their properties. “If we have a hydrant in Leeward, we could have saved that property. This was not the first fire, where property was destroyed because there is access to hydrants,” he said. He said another issue facing the Providenciales Domestic Fire Department is man-power shortage. He said that the department has just seven firefighters employed at the station, which he said is woefully inadequate. He said that the department depends on the services of volunteer firefighters, but because of their personal and job commitments, they are not available all the time. “We need to have our own staff. We have about seven firefighters, which is a very small number. We made request to government, and we are hoping that we get more people
soon. The volunteer firefighters can come only when they are available. Meanwhile, Special Constable Audley Astwood, the Media Liaison Officer for the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, said that several people were treated for smoke inhalation but no fatalities reported.
Turks and Caicos Sun Suite#5, Airport Plaza Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Tel: (649) 946-8542 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 Office Manager: Dominique Rigby Graphic designer Information Technology and Production Manager: Kelano Howell 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.
Williams Jennings
The Turks Head Inne,
Grand Turk, is looking to fill the following positions. Résumés can be submitted to turksheadinne@icloud.com or in person to the Turks Head Inne, Duke St., Grand Turk. Salary will be based on education and experience.
Job Title: Accounts Executive Location: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Primary Objective of the Job: Ensuring Cash transactions are recorded efficiently and accurately and that all financial controls are operating effectively Main Duties & Responsibilities: •Daily reconciliation of Store sales at all locations •Makes necessary postings to GP for store sales •Reconciles credit card sales and posting to GP • Scotia, FCIB bill payment & FCIB restricted Rec •Collection of revenue from Customer Care for weekly deposits •ICT stock count and stock evaluation •Update Daily KPI’s •Petty cash coding and rec •Intercompany Coding •Reconciling Digicel Play bill payments Academic qualifications and experience required for job: •Six (6) or more CXC General Proficiency subjects •2+ or more years’ experience with Accounts payable Functional Skills: •Detailed working knowledge of Microsoft Office •Well-developed written and communication skills •Excellent attention to detail and high level of accuracy •Excellent interpersonal, analytical and time management skills •Very effective organizational and problem solving skills •The ability to work under pressure and to meet deadlines DEADLINE: Interested applicants should forward their Resume and Cover letter to hrtci@digicelgroup.com on or before September 28th, 2015
Assistant Manager:
The Assistant Manager will assist the General Manager in daily hotel and restaurant operations. The Assistant Manager will be in charge of supervising other departments and divisions. They will be in charge of sales and marketing, event coordination, activities and operations. They will make all the necessary decisions needed in their assigned division and ensure all hotel rules and policies are implemented. The Assistant manager will monitor the tasks of personnel and workers, set goals and plans to promote and improve the service of their department. The Assistant manager will be in charge of monitoring hotel and restaurant profitability and financial goals of the company.
Qualifications and experience:
•Must have 5 star property background with minimum 5 years of experience at a senior level •International experience •Fluent oral and written communication in English •Remote island experience
Education and Training Requirements
A bachelor’s degree in hotel and restaurant management, or hospitality management, or events, sales, marketing or comparable program; is required.
Also looking for the following non-management positions: •Server •Food Runner •Bartender •Bar-back •Kitchen Helper •Cleaner/Housekeeper •Security *This job will require security clearance and a job-related background check ALL POSITIONS REQUIRE THE FOLLOWING: Fluent oral and written communication skills in English. Must be legally permitted to work in Turks and Caicos Islands.
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
IMPORTANT NOTICE
FREE DIGICEL SPORTSMAX FOR OUR VALUED GRAND TURK CUSTOMERS Dear valued Digicel Play customer, Our customers are at the heart of everything we do and as such, our goal is to bring them the best and most reliable TV and broadband experience in the Turks and Caicos Islands. As such, on behalf of the entire Digicel team, I want to thank you for your patience and continued support as we work to deliver that. In fact, we have added Digicel SportsMax 1 and 2 on channels 74 and 75 respectively as part of the Digicel Play channel line-up for customers in Grand Turk – and as a token of our thanks, customers will get it free for the first three months. With Digicel SportsMax, customers can now enjoy the world’s best sporting content including the English Premier League and NBA games – all on the Caribbean’s only 24-hour dedicated sports channel. In addition, further plans to expand our services are in the works – meaning customers in Grand Turk will enjoy even more of their favourite content on Digicel Play, and we will be communicating more on this soon. In the meantime, thank you again for your support and we hope you enjoy all your favourite sports on Digicel SportsMax. Sincerely,
Stephen Thompson Acting Digicel CEO
DIGICELPLAYTCI.COM
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
Planning Department blamed for delay in opening Long Bay High School
By Todeline Defralien Late approval from the Planning Department was one of the reasons why the Long Bay High School could not be completed in time for the new school year, said Deputy Premier and Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture of the Turks and Caicos Islands Hon. Akierra Missick. Responding to a question from Opposition Leader Hon. Sharlene Robinson in the House of Assembly on Monday, September 14th, 2015, Missick said the contracted time for the project was eight months, with the commencement date of 24th February, 2015 and completion date October, 2015th. She said the ground breaking took place on Monday February 23rd, 2015, and construction actually began on April 7th, 2015. "The administrative delays are as follows. There was late planning approval given to the contractor for the project the time that was taken away due to that delay was six weeks from the 24th of February to the 7th of April when the construction commenced,” she told the House.
delays due to the fact that planning approval was granted on April 7th it caused a delay in commencing the construction at the site. Further delays for some long lead items were expressed by the contractor... the time that was taken away from the length of the contract was six weeks, again February 24th to 7th of April six weeks Mr. Speaker”. She added that the contract for furniture was awarded by the Procurement Board in July and furniture will arrive on the island throughout the course of this month. "However, please note that we have had furniture ear-marked for this school including 200 desks and chairs," she continued. "The white boards for the wall are already on island and came as part of the global furniture package we had ordered at the end of the last financial year”. Hon. Sharlene CartwrightRobinson had asked: (a) what is the contracted time for commencement and completion? (b) when was the Deputy Premier Hon. Akierra Missick ground breaking ceremony? (c) When did the construction actually begin? “Award of Furniture contract (d) What were the administrative was done during the Summer and... delays and how much time did it take there were a number of construction away from the length of the contract?
THE ALEXANDRA RESORT Is inviting suitable applications for the following positions:
EXECUTIVE CHEF Are you an outgoing, dynamic individual, passionate about great food and incredible hospitality? We are looking for an enthusiastic, motivated Executive Chef to join our team and make a real difference in our guest’s experience! This position is the perfect opportunity for a confident experienced individual with a great understanding of how to deliver fantastic hospitality and an unbelievable culinary experience! We are seeking a team player who is ready to go the extra mile on every occasion to delight and astound our guests, and someone who will always look for opportunities to improve our services. JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: Candidate must demonstrate a proven track record of successfully leading/managing in an upscale Food & Beverage environment; with strong culinary experience and training. •Responsible for the execution of all company policies and procedures, ensuring that all services provided achieve the established standards within the agreed budgetary controls. •Advise the Corporate Executive Chef on all matters relating to the kitchen area and ensure a high standard of cleanliness and hygienic practice throughout the kitchen. •To assist the Corporate Executive Chef in budgeting i.e food cost/payroll/etc. •Ensure guest satisfaction with the smooth and effective running of the day-to-day operation. •Assist in training and development of Culinary staff members. •To maintain control of the standards for purchasing and receiving items. •To test and evaluate products for quality, paying particular attention to yield/holding qualities/market price/wastage usage of leftovers. •Constantly inspect all food service sections during service time to ensure that the correct standards are maintained. •Responsible for control of equipment and scheduling maintenance. REQUIREMENTS: •Minimum of 5 years of previous Food and Beverage international experience in a senior leadership role. •University/College degree •Computer literate in Microsoft Window applications required •Strong interpersonal and problem solving abilities •Developed proficiency with forecasting, cost controls and scheduling through related experience. •Dynamic, enthusiastic, creative leader who thrives under pressure and is able to perform multiple functions and troubleshoot when need. •Highly responsible & reliable with the ability to work well under pressure in fast paced environment. •Ability to work cohesively as part of a team •Ability to focus attention on guest needs, remaining calm and courteous at all times •The ability to stand and/or walk for a long periods of time, lift up to 40lbs and push/pull up to 50 lbs. •Must be able to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends and holidays. Salary for this position will commensurate with qualifications and experience. Please Submit Applications to: hr@alexandraresort.com A copy should also be submitted to the TCI Labour Department. Submissions to be no later than October 2nd, 2015 Belongers need only apply.
(e) The number of and nature of the construction delays and how much time did they take away from the length of the contract? (f) Will she say what date was the furniture ordered and whether it is on island and if so when did the shipment arrive? And (g) Will she further lay on the table of this Honorable House a copy of the contract signed on behalf of the people of these islands?. In relation to the contract, The Deputy Premier said: "We have received advice that section (15) of the Procurement Ordinance says that an office must, during procurement and the award of a contract, take necessary steps to protect the Governments confidential information. This includes observing any relevant obligation in an ordinance. An officer must treat his submission as confidential both before and after the award of a contract. Once a contract has been awarded the terms of the contract including parts of the contract drawn from the supplier’s quotation or tender is confidential unless the Government has determined and indentify in the contract specific information that is to be kept confidential.”
TCIAA TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS AIRPORTS AUTHORITY PROVIDENCIALES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT PROVIDENCIALES TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS E-mail: info@tciairports.com Fax: (649) 941-5996 TENDER NOTICE: SOUTH CAICOS AIRPORT CONTROL TOWER, TCIAA-TR-1501 The Turks And Caicos Islands Airports Authority invites open tenders for the construction of the
SOUTH CAICOS AIRPORT CONTROL TOWER Further information and tender documents are available (electronic copy format only) upon request and a payment of One Hundred United States Dollars ($100.00). Payments can be made to the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority Office and the tender document will be forwarded to your email address provided from the Project Manager, via e-mail at bcatci@gmail.com. Tenders are to be submitted in a sealed envelope by 10:00 A.M. on Monday September 28, 2015 to: The Project Manager, Turks & Caicos Islands Airports Authority, Providenciales International Airport, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands.
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
Page 11
LOCAL NEWS
Freedom of Information Act not needed now, says Premier By Vivian Tyson
Senior Sun Editor The ruling Progressive National Party (PNP) is adamant that the Freedom Information Ordinance being proposed by the opposition Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) is not critical at this time since there are a number of more important bills to be presented before parliament. Speaking in Parliament on Monday, September 14, 2015, after the Opposition proposed the private members motion, Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing, said that while this government does support transparency and the public’s right to access information, there are pressing issues that are important to the people and their important to lives. The premier also accused the opposition of making attempts to belittle government proposed Bills in the house. He argued that some members spent a great deal of time in parliament and had not seen it fit to introduce an Freedom of Information Bill until now, which suddenly became pressing. “I heard the honorable member from Five Cays talk about the Dog Bill in a derogatory manner, as if the Dog Bill has no significance. What I can tell you, as a health practitioner, we, over the past years, party after party, government after government, have been inside this House and saw no need for Freedom of Information Bill, and no one will die tomorrow or the day after tomorrow because of the lack of information or freedom of
information,” argued. “But someone can die as a result of a public health issue, from not controlling dogs. So, don’t tell me what is important and priority from what is not important. We set our priorities, there is no special interest. “We set our priority, we set our legislative agenda, and our legislative agenda will take into consideration things that will impact the lives of individuals, and so, we have much more to do in doing that because we have other bills to bring to this House, such as the Crown Land Ordinance,” he added. The premier hastened to clarify that he was in support of the Freedom of Information Bill, but at this time it is not as pressing some legislations that need to pass, telling the house that his government and the attorney general’s chambers are inundated with Bills to be drafted and passed. “We will get there, but we are overwhelmed, the Attorney General’s Chambers is overwhelmed, ministries are overwhelmed. And so, I can’t, in good conscience, put on it (Freedom of Information Bill) on this agenda right now at this moment in this session, a bill, that even though we support it, a bill that will take off track and manpower from working on other important pieces of legislations that we need to bring before this House,” he said. “Persons spoke earlier today about persons not getting health insurance coverage, those are things that are important. Now, after we
PDM ON THE PASSING OF THE REV CONRAD HOWELL The Turks and Caicos College of Providenciales, immediate mourns the loss of the Rev Dr Past President of the Providenciales Conrad Howell, a prominent Turks Ministerial Fellowship and author of and Caicos Islander. As a people we “We Salute This Land of Ours”. have been flung into a state of grief A citizen who chose to be a and shock over his sudden and tragic participant in his country’s affairs demise. In the midst of what seems through various means, he was to be an air of grave uncertainty, our a constant voice in the national hearts and thoughts are immediately dialogue. His life is therefore worthy turned towards his wife, Brickell, his of celebration. children, Angelica, Conrad jr, Cristin We pause to also celebrate and Courtnee, his siblings and wider the unity we saw displayed by family. Anyone who knew Rev Howell members of the public on the Island knew that his family was a close knit of Providenciales for a cause that was one and the part of his life that he bigger than what too often divides us. celebrated. We extend our sincerest The partnership between the Police and deepest condolences to them and and the people was an encouraging pray that they will allow the God of breath of fresh air. We are grateful for Peace to envelope and comfort them this and to all of you who answered at this time. the call to be brave and caring citizens, The Late Rev Dr Conrad the best kind, we say thank you. May Howell was well known throughout God bless you and your homes. these Islands for the many roles I wish to also use this he played or was playing in these opportunity to encourage members Islands at the time of his passing. of the public especially those on Perhaps more notable of these is social media to be responsible in their his current role as host of the Radio comments and to allow the family Show “Expressions”, host of PTV’s time to grieve and the Police time to Show “On Your Mind” , a serving investigate. In circumstances of this member of the National Honors and sort, it is wise to wait on the official Awards Committee, PTA President release from the Police. at the country’s largest secondary Today we mourn, we celebrate school and the School named for his but we should also give thanks for the father Clement Howell, President life and contributions of the Late Rev and joint owner of the University Dr Conrad Howell.
have covered all of those grounds, we will consider and ensure that we live up to the constitutional obligation to put in place some kind of Freedom of Information Bill. It is not in the order of priority, it has not fallen on our legislative agenda. I appreciate the opposition nudging us, but don’t tell us that we should and we must put it there, or when we agree and vote to say yes, we must come, and you are going to come to us and say in a few House meetings you promised to do that and you ain’t do it yet. We will get to it,” the premier argued. He added: “When we look at some of the burning issues, that we have in this country, we have to consider the implications, the ramifications of the Freedom of Information Bill or Freedom of Information Ordinance. Where there is freedom of information, there must be data protection, because, as I say, some people just don’t know how to handle the truth.” The premier also noted that in countries where access to information is allowed, there are some data that is deemed classified and not made readily to the public. “And so, in most countries, in every civilized, well advanced countries, where you see freedom of information, there is data protection. I just hope that the members on the other side or persons listening in public think that the minute we put up Freedom of Information Bill to the House and it is passed, we can all of a sudden have access to cabinet papers;
it cannot be so. There are some things that are classified and remained classified. Now, the Bill will make to declassify it after a certain period of time, in some countries, as much as 30 years. And some countries go back in time, retroactively, after the bill is passed. And so, it is information that we have nothing to hide. Maybe, you may have something to hide after being in government a few years back, we don’t know. Maybe it is you who would have something to hide in the future; because it impacts each and every one of us,” the premier asserted. He said that such Bill has its challenges as evident in some countries that have passed it or about to pass it, noting that it sucks up a great deal of resources. “The Freedom of Information Bill, and looking at the challenges of the countries which implemented it, like the Cayman Islands, they are going through challenges, which require a lot of resources. And one of the criticisms is that if you put this ordinance in place, if you don’t have the manpower and the capacity to implement it and to properly monitor it, it is a nightmare. “So we really have to think carefully on how we do these things, because even Cayman, after passing the Bill, they put a 14-month implementation timeframe so it does not take effect until 14 months or later. We support freedom of information, and it is just not now, we will get to it,” he concluded.
PROVO WATER COMPANY LTD. We are currently seeking a qualified Turks & Caicos Islander to fill the position of Pipe Fitter:
REQUIREMENTS: o Minimum of 5 years experience in waterworks and piping networks. o Must be available for emergency maintenance calls on evenings and weekends according to rotational schedule. WORK ENVIRONMENT: • Hot, dusty and wet conditions including open and confined spaces • Active roadways and associated traffic noise levels • Remote locations JOB DESCRIPTION: The Pipe fitter is responsible for installing, repairing and maintaining pipes, fixtures and other plumbing used for water distribution in residential, commercial and industrial connections. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ARE TO: 1.Fill pipes or plumbing fixtures with water or air and observe pressure gauges to detect and locate leaks. 2.Reads and follows installation plans and establish the sequence of pipe installations. 3.Measure, cut, thread and bend pipe to required angle, using hand and power tools or machine such as pipe cutters, pipe threading machines and pipe bending machine. 4.Use hand or powered tools to excavate trenches and ditches 5.Cut openings in structures to accommodate pipes and pipe fittings, using hand and power tools. 6.Repair and maintain plumbing, replacing defective washers, replacing or mending broken pipes. 7.Attend Emergency callout when necessary. 8.Carry out all other duties as directed by the Supervisor. Salary Range: US$ 12.00 - $15.00 per hour All applications must be submitted September 30th, 2015. Turks & Caicos Islanders need only apply. Office Manager PROVO WATER COMPANY LTD. P.O. Box 39, Grace Bay Road Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Fax: (649) 941-8310 Email: K.Clarke@provowater.tc
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
OECD’s broad blacklisting of Caribbean countries is wrong, says CEO of CIBC FCIB By Vivian Tyson
Senior Sun Editor Rik Parkhill, Regional Chief Executive Officer for CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank said that it is unfair for the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries to paint a black list broad on the Caribbean in general, instead of looking at each jurisdiction in the region on a case-by-case basis. Parkhill, who is based at the bank’s regional headquarters in Barbados, and who was in the Turks and Caicos Islands as part of his visit to meet with local stakeholders as to how improvements to its service could be made, said that such a blacklisting was bound to hurt banking in some way. “I think that there are a lot of problems associated with the blacklisting that the particular countries of the OECD have done. For instance, if you are a low tax jurisdiction, you can be black-listed by a number of OECD countries, which I think is wrong,” Parkhill said while on a recent visit to the Turks and Caicos Islands. He noted however that the Caribbean has made great strides to
correct the blacklist target, and are beginning to enjoy better relationships with the OECD. “I think the Caribbean generally has made huge strides as well as the commercial banks, in terms of making sure that the transparency of their operations have been enhanced, the way they approach customers in terms of making sure that customers have actually a valid reason to bank here other than tax, as well as the antimoney laundering standard that most of the commercial banks have adapted,” he said. “So, sort of taking a broad brush to say that the Caribbean is not a good place to bank is certainly a wrong approach, and I think we are seeing at least some of the OECD countries start to examine individual banking territories I think more thoroughly, I think a lot of countries are going to come off the black list,” Parkhill continued. In the meantime, Parkhill said he personally believed that there are too many commercial banks in the region in comparison to other geographical areas. “As of personal opinion, probably (there are too many commercial banks in the region). If you
Rik Parkhill look at the number of banks in Europe and North America, and compare with the number of banks here and the population size,” he said. However, Parkhill said that the mushroom of commercial banks does not affect the operations of CIBC
FirstCaribbean. “It doesn’t affect our operations one way or another. I think we have a major market share in Turks and Caicos and we try to compete effectively as possible no matter if it is one competitor or half-a-dozen competitors,” he said, noting that commercial banks have become much more resourceful now than before the 2008 financial meltdown. “I think all of the commercial banks are in a much stronger position that they were in pre-2008. They tend to have higher capital levels, their lending books are in better shape, the lending standards have been enhanced, and the level of security that we, as a bank, has been significantly advanced, so if there is an economic downturn, I think you are looking at a much more resilient banking system,” he said. vParkhill added: “A lot of commercial banks have also diversified their operations as well, so we perhaps have a disproportionate share at one time of the land development of the hotel and hospitality market. That’s no longer the case. If you look at our corporate book, it is much better diversify than it was. And I think that was the case with a lot of commercial banks.”
Decco (TCI) Ltd Project Director Decco (TCI) Ltd. has a requirement for a professionally qualified and experienced Project Director to join our team for the construction of a high quality, condominium resort development project in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, BWI. The Project Director will be responsible and accountable for the overall management, control and administration of a new project, and the construction team, from mobilization to the successful completion and hand over of the Works. Such responsibility and accountabilities will include: •Mobilization and site establishment; •Master Schedule and progress reporting; •Procurement; •Value and Cost reporting; •Overall contract administration; •Change management and co-ordination; •Document Control; •Oversight of project health and safety procedures; •Oversight of site based QA/QC systems; •Oversight of works testing, commissioning and hand over. REQUIREMENTS: The successful candidate will require a proven track record in similar projects and a combination of knowledge, skills and experience, as follows: •Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or Building Construction discipline. •Minimum 15 - 20 years post-graduation experience in Project/ Construction, with at least 10 years spent in Management at a senior level. •Chartered member of an internationally recognized engineering or building professional institution. •Demonstrated financial management and control experience including cost and value reporting. •Extensive experience in the successful completion of high quality hotels and/or condominium resort developments in the Caribbean region. •Strong team building and leadership skills and capabilities. •Salary based on experience.
Written applications with personal details and a full current resume showing education, qualifications and career experience to date should be sent by facsimile to (649) 946 4663 and no later than 2 October 2015.
interCaribbean Airways (Air Turks and Caicos (2003) Ltd. | P.O. Box 191 | One InterIsland Aviation Way| Providenciales| Turks & Caicos Islands Phone: 649-946-4181 | Fax 649-946-4040 | www.flyairtc.com / interCaribbean.com InterCaribbean Airways, the leading local air carrier in the TCI, will be hosting a job fair on Tuesday, September 22 from 10 am to 3 pm, at their office located on Old Airport Road Providenciales. The positions available are: Ramp Agents Customer Service Agents Supervisors Security Officers Stores Personnel Attendees are encouraged to bring along their resume, proof of legal status to work in the Turks and Caicos Islands, valid Police record (no more than 6 months old). For Further information please contact the Human Resource Department on 946-4181.
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
Page 13
LOCAL NEWS
Skippings warns of 'strange' and 'toxic' relationship between PDM and PNP By Oswald Skipping
Leader of PDA
Supporters of the People's Democratic Movement (PDM) are becoming more befuddled, confused and disenchanted at the strange marriage between the Progressive National Party (PNP) government and the PDM opposition as this toxic relationship is seemingly becoming stronger and stronger by the day. There are too many unanswered questions that are plaguing the remaining PDM supporters. It is still puzzling why the opposition had to craft the proposal for the half million dollars for the Minister of finance that was approved in the House of Assembly some months ago. Yet the same opposition refuses to take a motion to the House on behalf of the retired civil servants who are still entitled to vacation pay and other benefits. Then there is the question of why in the wake of Grand Turk suffering from water shortages and an overrun of garbage, does the opposition not see the leasing of over a dozen expensive vehicles for government ministers as unacceptable. As a matter of fact why isn’t the opposition more
forceful in challenging the government on issues that are not in the interest of the public in general. In fact, the open inseparable bond between both party leaders is more than enough for concern within both parties. The straw that broke the camel’s back is the fact that in spite of the vociferous public opposition to these two immigration bills, this government and opposition was audacious and disrespectful enough to ignore the voice of the people and pass these bills. This country is in dire need of politicians with intestinal fortitude who are not afraid to stand up and represent our people and protect the national interest our people and not sell out our franchise and our sovereignty for votes that would be the undoing of us all as a Turks and Caicos people. We have enough persons in our country now who are perhaps deserving of regularization which has not been attended to yet unwary politicians are looking to open the flood gates to more people from any and everywhere. I take this privileged opportunity to put both the PNP and the PDM on notice that the agenda of the very first meeting of the House of
Oswald Skippings- Leader of Progressive Democratic Alliance Assembly under a PDA administration, would include the rescinding of these two bills which only one PDM member had the guts to vote against at 1 AM this morning when they were successfully passed in the House of Assembly. This country is in a sad state
of affairs and I call on the Premier to call for an immediate election so that the people of this country be afforded the much deserved opportunity to elect a real, caring, courageous and patriotic government to save this country from total destruction and its people from total alienation and disempowerment.
IMMEDIATE OPENING GENERAL MANAGER Requirements include:
•Functions as the Strategic Business Leader of the resort. Position oversees the development and implementation of departmental strategies and ensures implementation of the brand service strategy and brand initiatives. Focuses on target customer needs, employee satisfaction, growing revenues and maximizing financial performance of the resort. •A keen understanding of marketing / public relations / advertising strategies, and the ability to create sales and marketing plans. •At least 12 years experience in managerial role at high-end hotel/resort with in-depth knowledge of luxury marketing, sales. Brand experience a must. •Sound knowledge of all aspects of resort operation and finance. •Exceptional verbal, written and strategic planning skills. •Strong organization skills. •Ability to effectively direct labor productivity. •Financial management skills e.g., ability to analyze P&L statements, develop operating budgets, forecasting and capital expenditure planning. •Ability to use standard software applications and hotel systems – Opera (Fidelio), Micros. •Strategic planning skills. •Ability to evaluate business trends, determine applicability to customer profile and modify business strategies accordingly. •Ability to take constructive action without relying on directions from others. •Ability to network and build relationships to grow the business. •Strong problem-solving skills; encourages new innovative solutions when appropriate. •Must be willing and available to work all days and shifts.
Duties include:
•Responsible for strategic planning and long-term vision and projects •Oversee day to day management of entire resort including development and implementation of process and management guidelines. •Occasional travel abroad representing the resort in marketing and public relations tradeshows. •Review financial data and prepare executive reports for owners and international management company. Oversee managerial and other staff to ensure high guest satisfaction and employee retention.
Technician
The chosen candidate must be a licensed/certified refrigeration technician with knowledge of different types of refrigerant including R22, 134A and 404A. Must have experience maintaining and repairing low temperature refrigeration, walk-in freezers and coolers, ice machines and direct expansion air conditioning systems. Duties Include: •Perform scheduled preventative maintenance and corrective repair on all refrigeration equipment. •Upgrading equipment as required. •Maintaining inventory of parts needed for designated equipment to avoid down time. Starting salary $7.00- $9.00 per hour plus service charge Mechanic Technician The chosen candidate must have knowledge and experience in repair and maintenance including preventative maintenance to prevent down time on commercial laundry equipment including 250lb washer, flat ironer, folding machines, steam dryers, valet equipment, boilers, 150hp boiler feed tank, steam water heater and chemical injection system. Duties Include: •Maintain proper preventative maintenance to laundry equipment and boilers. •Maintain proper inventory on designated parts to avoid down time. •Maintain proper amount of chemical injection on boiler feed tank and proper conductivity at boilers. •Preventative maintenance to steam traps and steam lines. Starting salary $7.00 -$9.00 per hour plus service charge
Interested applicants should apply to The Palms, Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday, and bring along an updated resume, or by emailing your resume to kitchandra.penn@thepalmstc.com, no later than end of day Friday, October 2nd, 2015.
Description
SENIOR PLANT ELECTRICIAN
Responsible for carrying out effective preventive and corrective repairs to plant control and electrical equipment and other company assets in a manner consistent with equipment manufacturer’s specification and standard electrical practices and as directed by the Plant Production Manager
Main Duties
Maintain, install and trouble shoot all rotating and stationary electrical equipment with particular emphasis on control systems. All such work will be performed with safety, efficiency and functionality of the FortisTCI system as the guiding factors. Participate in the layout, construction, installation, modification, maintenance and repairs to FortisTCI facilities by assisting in the preparation and interpretation of blueprints, plans specifications, catalogue data and written and verbal instructions. Maintain, install and trouble shoot all breakers (high and low voltage) and associated equipment at the Power Plant. Supervise and mentor apprentices. Plan and conduct work in a manner consistent with the company’s commitment to the environment and ensure that subordinate employees are likewise in compliance. Be familiar with and adhere to the safety and operating procedures of the company. Be calm and competent in response to plant emergencies. Knowledge and experience with starting, synchronizing, and loading multiple generators unto a power system busbar. Knowledge of substation operations and maintenance. Operate Company vehicles as required and in adherence to company policy and the driving regulations of TCI authorities. Be professional in dress and demeanor as befits an employee and ensure that a good public image of FortisTCI is maintained at all times. Perform other duties as may be assigned and/or required by system contingencies from time to time.
Minimum Requirements
At a minimum, must possess an electrical technologist, or electrical technician advanced diploma (or equivalent), with particular emphasis on controls systems and protection technology. A minimum of 10 years’ experience in high voltage application preferably in the diesel power generation and substation environment. Experience working on Caterpillar and Wartsila diesel generators will be an asset. Familiarity with and competency in the use of computers PLCs and standard computing software programs. Excellence in interpretation of engineering drawings and manuals. Professional competency in written and oral communication skills in English. Experience in high voltage installation, maintenance, and repairs. Ability to function effectively under emergency situations and thinks clearly and effectively and able to deliver within deadlines and to work under pressure.
Compensation
Compensation commensurate with experience and qualifications. Deadline for submission of applications (inclusive of a cover letter, resume and a FortisTCI application form) is September 22 2015 to: Dr. Kellie-Ann Evans-Hall Manager, Human Resources FortisTCI Limited P. O. Box 132, Providenciales Email address: hrapplications@fortistci.com or khall@fortistci.com
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
PLEASE CALL US FOR NEWER VEHICLES 649-941-3910 MILEAGE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
Old Airport Road | Providenciales | Turks & Caicos Islands | E-Mail: p_mystique@tciway.tc
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
Page 15
LOCAL NEWS
Freedom of Information law much more than government information By Vivian Tyson
Senior Sun Editor A Freedom of Information Ordinance is much more that just ferreting information out of government but also to ensure accuracy, to ward off tomfoolery and to educate society, this according to Opposition Leader Hon. Sharlene Cartwright Robinson. The opposition leader was making her contribution to the proposed Freedom of Information Private Members Motion in the House of Assembly. The Motion was piloted by the opposition. She said as it stands, getting information out of government is quite arduous. “For some time, getting information from this government even in this House, has been like pulling teeth. Information is important for so many reasons, yes for good governance, but to enlighten, avert mischief and to create a more informed citizenry,” she maintained. She said also that the news media, which she described as a very important member of the population,
of the House for has been the recipient the drafting of a of a great deal of Bill that would be broadsides by some tailored for us,” she members of the public regarding accuracy of said, noting also that there was no information, but with need to reinvent such an ordinance, the wheel, since such antagonism countries with could be lessened. “Quite often robust Freedom of Information Acts, we hear accusations largely composed against the media of their legislations misrepresentation from bits and pieces of facts. This of similar laws from therefore (Freedom other countries that of Information Ordinance), is a great have sound access information tool to ensure that the Opposition Leader Hon. Sharlene Cartwright to regimes. correct information Robinson S h e is disseminated. As the media is an important member of advised though that any Freedom of our citizenry, who help to disseminate Information Ordinance in the Turks information, educate and to remind all and Caicos Islands should reflect the of us what we said and to hold all of us country’s requirements. “When one looks behind into account,” she said. She told the House that the the most successful Freedom of introduction of such a Bill would Information regimes, they seem to require urgent attention but not a have a number of ingredients that rushed approach. is common or one that will precede “We are calling from this side all, and one that they were preceded
by a careful study of other freedom of information systems. Another is that they have adapted successful model or models to fit the political, bureaucratic, social and economical cultures on which their governments must operate. “In other words, given the wide ranging experience of Freedom of Information regimes already in existence, no jurisdiction is compelled to reinvent the wheel, so to speak. But it is so important that we tailor-make legislation for ourselves,” she said. Cartwright Robinson said that there should be no need for the creation of any major mechanisms to establish the Freedom of Information law, while advising that serious consideration should be given to national security. “Of course, consideration must be given to matters of national security and the manner in which we handle requests. Some countries have set up a Freedom of Information commission with a secretariat. Again, we must be careful as well in the possible make-up and perhaps there is no need for a new major machinery to be created,” she said.
Hon. Don Hue Gardiner Opposes the Freedom of Information Act
By Brandy Laporte
Minister of Border Control and Labour Hon. Ricardo Donhue Gardiner says he is opposed to the introduction of a Freedom of Information Act in the Turks and Caicos Islands. During debate in the House of Assembly in Grand Turk on September 14th, 2015, Gardiner said, “During the time of the campaign, we on this side in our team had indicated our support for the passing of a Freedom of Information ordinance and as the Constitution requires and, as it is the proper thing to do, and because we of the Progressive National Party have always been promise keepers we certainly do now as before as will be done in the future endeavor to keep all of our promises, but let it be known that the Opposition does not run the government’s agenda.”
Gardiner said: “In deciding whether and what needs to be done in order to have a Freedom of Information ordinance law that is appropriate for our circumstances is not something that can be done or ought to be done ‘willy nilly’ because there are things that because of contractual obligations, and because of things that may be of a sensitive nature.” Gardiner added that because of national security concerns and because of other concerns that are important to the people, individuals of the wider society it may not always be good to have the freedom or to have the broadcasting of certain information. Gardiner said that this is a country where everybody knows everything and every time before the ink is dried on a piece of paper with a signature of a minister or anybody else, it is available to all in sundry,
Bight Park access times announced To allow for safe access to the Bight Park (formally known as the Children’s Park) entry times are now in place. The Department of Environment & Maritime Affairs would like to inform the general public that the Bight Park will be accessible between 5 am and 7 pm seven days per week, with exception on Thursday evenings during Fish Fry. DEMA would like the public to ensure that all activities cease by 7 pm and that the park is vacated of all
vehicles at this time, or risk having vehicles locked inside until the park is re-opened the following day. Please also be reminded that application for the use of the facilities at the park are available from Ms Sheryl Williams, at the National Environmental Centre, DEMA, Lower Bight Road, Providenciales. DEMA thanks you for your cooperation. Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Department at environment@gov. tc, or 338-4170.
sometimes long before it is available to perhaps others in government and sometimes before communication even reaches its intended addressee. Gardiner said, “Mr. Speaker, my friend the opposition leader quotes something from the United States. Nothing good certainly as far as governance is concerned comes to the United States and so Mr. speaker I do not think when you consider how information is gathered and disseminated in the United States that that is a model , that anybody would wish to emulate in this country. So Mr. Speaker to that extent I say that I do not support the motion. When it is reached on the government’s agenda we will get to it, but I will certainly not be supporting it. Mr. Speaker those are the reasons why I do not support it and I leave it at that.” Hon. Don Hue Gardiner
Luxury Beauty Salon Is Seeking: COSMETOLOGIST & HAIR DRESSER Must have: •5 years experience
•Certificate in cosmetology •Excellent customer service skills •Good relationship with people •Excellent leadership Must be able to work weekends and holidays. Positions require the following: •Excellent command of the English Language-reading, writing and speaking •Good communication skills and team player •Detail oriented and 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 persons should apply to luxury-beautysalon@hotmail.com No phone calls please. Qualified candidates will be contacted for interview.
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
Lillian Missick urges parliamentarians to be more diplomatic
Governor’s Appointed should be a bit more suave in their you talk about investigation, perhaps “Because once you determine Member Hon. Lillian Missick is pronouncements in rather than that requires an investigation,” she that you are going to have that law pleading to Members of the House allowing their emotions to run said. in place, there will be bombardments of Assembly to be more diplomatic in wild because they could be easily Conceding that some information for information, and you have to have their parliamentary discourse than sidetracked. must be kept out of the public domain the necessary human resources there being brash. “Emotion can be a very for reasons of national security and to make that information available to Missick, who was making dangerous thing, and often times public safety, Missick said that there the general public,” Missick advised. her contribution to the Freedom of when we are discussing and debating should be transparency in government. Information Members Motion raised very serious issues, and we become “Over the last five years we have by the opposition in the House, emotional about it, we sometimes get heard the words ‘transparency’ and cautioned some House members not derailed and go off track,” she said. ‘accountability’, ‘mutual respect’, we to get so hot under the collar when She added: “As the Hon. Third have heard them bandied around debating a Bill or Motion that they are All Island Member stated (Hon. frequently. We are supposed to be not in agreement with. Derek Taylor) stated, we have a operating under the umbrella of “I understand the passion. I constitutional requirement to bring transparency and accountability. hear the emotion. But at the end of the a Freedom of Information Bill with a “Now, while I accept that some bits day we need to adapt a very clinical view to becoming an ordinance in this of information may not be in the approach to this and say this is country.” public interest, it may be for public something that we are constitutionally Missick said that the fear safety, national security; it just may required to do. ‘The government will that some members have that cabinet not be the thing for us to do or for make every effort to ensure that we get papers could be leaked into the public the government to do, to have that it on our agenda’. Don’t tell people ‘we domain was nothing but an indictment information out there. ain’t going there’. Be more diplomatic. being made against those involved in “If we don’t have anything to (Say) ‘We are going to make government and the public service. hide, why can’t we have a Freedom sure that it gets there’, but don’t say “What I heard here a short while ago of Information Ordinance? Which that the opposition is irresponsible, is an indictment being made against will allow the public to have access you ain’t going to be dictated to. To me those persons who are directly involved to responsible information?” Missick those things are totally unnecessary. in cabinet and the public service. How queried. You can get the message out without else can confidential information come “When I saw the motion, my saying those things,” Missick out of cabinet? first reaction was, if we are going cautioned. “That is a serious, serious to proceed to having a Freedom of Speaking directly to statements made indictment, not so much on the Information Ordinance or Bill before by a government member during his member who displayed it, but it is how it becomes an ordinance, drafted, then broadside against the Motion. Missick it got out of the confines of cabinet. we should insure that we have the Hon. Lillian Missick warned that parliamentarians That is serious, very, very serious. And necessary resources to police that.
CIBC FCIB introduces quicker loan approvals By Vivian Tyson
Senior Sun Editor
Rik Parkhill, Regional Chief Executive Officer for CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank has announced that the turnaround t for loans is much faster than a few months ago, thanks to an aggressive undertaking by the institution to enhance customer service. He made the revelation while addressing the media on the performance of the institution on Monday, September 14, 2015, during a Q and A with the media at the Leeward Highway branch, using the opportunity to also introduce his successor Gary Brown, who he said, should take over the helm on January 1, 2016.
He said the goal is to approve loans a little over two days. “We have made a lot of enhancements to our internet banking platform. We have made some significant improvements in service, in particular the length of time it takes us to give loan approvals, and the goal which we are starting to meet on a phased basis, is to turnaround loan approvals within 28 hours,” he said. Parkhill spilled also that CIBC FirstCaribbean is currently undergoing refurbishments of its branches and an overhauling and expansion of its ATM network, which he said is to provide customers with more ways to bank. He said that the expansion and improvements come on the heels of the bank racking up sizable profits,
REVIT MANAGER/ CO-ORDINATOR REQUIRED An experienced individual is required for the following role: Job Summary
• The successful applicant will be expected to establish Revit standards of operation, procedures and details throughout the office. • This will include establishment of templates, databases, libraries, drawing standards and working process guidelines for the operation of the office • Training and ongoing management of all individuals in the use of Revit.
which he said allowed the institution to introduce innovative products, including a smart phone banking app, which he said should come on stream in 2016. “We are starting to run on all cylinders and revenue is starting to increase, operational cost is very well controlled. And that is going to allow us to introduce new products and services, for instance, we are going to introduce a smart phone personal banking app in 2016,” he said. He added: “We always constructive criticisms as well as praise from clients. But I think clients, particularly in Turks and Caicos are feeling better about their businesses and the growth prospects in the economy. And to some extent, the bank is a reflection of its clients, and we are doing better, they
are obviously doing better as well, and we continue to see that across the breadth of the Turks and Caicos economy.” He also noted that banks across t h e region are much stronger that they before the 2008 financial crisis. He said most banks were affected because they set their projected growth rates too high. “Most of the banks’ business models were billed much higher growth rates -GDP rates that were four, five, six percent. And what had happened since the credit crisis was that financial institutions, like everyone else, waited for the rebound, but it really never came; not with the magnitude that growth was recorded at during the credit crisis,” he said.
䌀爀攀愀琀攀 礀漀甀爀 伀眀渀 一愀洀攀
䈀攀愀甀琀椀挀椀愀渀猀 ☀ 一愀椀氀 吀攀挀栀猀 吀唀刀一 夀伀唀刀 伀圀一 䬀䔀夀
Essential Skills/Experience
• Minimum 5 years post-qualification drafting and design work experience using Revit software. • Minimum 5 years’ experience in training and managing staff in the use of Revit software • Excellent skills in Revit Architecture 2014, Autodesk 2015 Building Design Suite, Microsoft Access and Excel a pre-requisite. • Minimum 2 year College Diploma in a relevant discipline. • Knowledge of BIM processes/best practice and proof of relevant training undertaken • A strong background in database management a pre-requisite • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate well with others. • Ability to work unsupervised and multi-task. Salary rated according to experience, between $3k & $4.5k per month. Interested applicants should contact Mr. C Davies via e-mail by September 12th 2015 with current CV to info@coasttci.com or in writing to the address below. Only applicants meeting the minimum requirements listed above will be contacted for interview within 5 days of receipt of their application.
Only suitably qualified Turks & Caicos Islanders need apply. Coast Architects, 82 Cherokee Road, PO Box 941, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands
䈀伀伀吀䠀 刀䔀一吀䄀䰀匀 䘀伀刀 䴀伀刀䔀 䤀一䘀伀刀䴀䄀吀䤀伀一 䌀䄀䰀䰀 吀䔀䰀㨀 ⠀㘀㐀㤀⤀ⴀ㌀㌀㌀ⴀ㘀㘀㤀㔀 䰀漀挀愀琀椀漀渀㨀 䄀椀爀瀀漀爀琀 䠀漀琀攀氀Ⰰ 䄀椀爀瀀漀爀琀 倀氀愀稀愀Ⰰ 戀甀椀氀搀椀渀最 㠀㌀Ⰰ 倀爀漀瘀椀搀攀渀挀椀愀氀攀猀
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
Page 17
LOCAL NEWS
IMMEDIATE OPENING Junior Sous Chef Requirements: •Minimum 5 years culinary experience in a full service, fine dining establishment as Sous Chef •Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience •Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience •Must have strong knowledge of kitchen inventory and ordering process, staffing, expediting and ability to supervise the staff and kitchen operations under the direction of the Executive Chef •Excellent culinary technique and ability to work the line during all meal periods •Exceptional customer service orientation, complying with company service culture •Must be willing and able to work all days and shifts Duties Include: •Recruit and select qualified candidates, provide training and communication performance expectations •Coordinate the inventory, purchasing and disbursement of all supplies with the purchasing manager •Inspect and ensures the proper set up and readiness of each item on menus •Supervise daily food preparation for assigned areas. •Ensure that the level of quality, portion control, and plate presentation is adhered to consistently •Work closely with staff to exceed guest expectations •Maintain product consistency by conducting inspecting or seasonings, portion and appearance of food Starting salary $20,000.00 per annum, not including service charge. Hotel Manager Requirements •12- 15 years of management experience in internationally branded luxury hotels/resort including at least 5 years at Executive Committee Level •In depth knowledge of rooms operations and full knowledge of overall hotel operations as they affect department •Financial management skills including ability to analyze P&L statements, develop operating budgets, forecasting and capital expenditure planning •In-depth knowledge of hotel systems – Opera (Fidelio), Micros. •Experience implementing and monitoring brand standards of operation and quality •Strategic planning skills •Ability to evaluate business trends, determine applicability to customer profile and modify business strategies accordingly •Ability to take constructive action without relying on directions from others •Ability to network and build relationships to grow the business •Strong problem-solving skills; encourages new innovative solutions when appropriate •Strong communication skills with experience developing correspondence and business materials for customers/guests, owners, management and staff •Must be willing and available to
work all shifts and days Duties Include: •Directs rooms, pool and beach, retail, youth programs and security departments ensuring maximum guest satisfaction and profitability. •Oversees the development and implementation of departmental strategies and ensures implementation of brand service strategies initiatives. •Develops annual operating and capital expenditure budgets •Ensures implementation of and compliance with brand policies, programs and standards of operation and quality Salary commensurate with qualification and experience. Cook de Tourant Requirements: •Demonstrate understanding of the technical culinary skills for assigned area (all kitchen work stations.) •Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience •Must have previously worked as a cook d’tourant for a minimum 3 years in a luxury resort •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. Starting salary at $25,000 per year not including service charge. Room Attendant Requirements: •Ability to work with heavy cleaning machinery. •Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties include: •Ensuring that standards of cleanliness and organization are met at all times in assigned areas. • Responsibility for care and maintenance of all equipment and machinery •Restock linens and amenities on carts •Run needed items to guest floors •Assist housekeepers as required Starting salary $6.25 not including service charge Spa Attendant Requirements: •Must posses and demonstrate the ability to interact with all guests and team members effectively with tact and diplomacy in line with property’s service standards. •Must be able to work all days and shifts
Duties Include: •Ensure that standards of cleanliness and organization are met at all times in the spa area. •Escort guests from reception; provide locker keys, towels, robes, water etc. and assist with guest needs as required. Starting salary $6.25 an hour not including service charge. Gardener Duties Include: •General laborer duties as assigned by the supervisor or manager. •Willingness to work varying schedules, split shifts, nights, weekends and holidays. Salary $6.25 an hour not including service charge. Storeroom Clerk Requirements: •Customer services skills •2 years experience work as a storeroom clerk •Must be able to work all days and shift Duties Include: •maintain the storeroom by properly storing all food, beverage and consumable goods in pre-designated areas with proper rotation •Maintains proper storage of all food goods in their pre-designated areas •Keep storerooms organized and clean for proper storage •Maintain cleanliness of storerooms daily •Maintains and clean delivery truck •Deliver in-house requisitions to each department location and ensures that requisition is signed by the receiver. •Ensures that requisition signed by the receiver is given to Purchasing Director and Purchasing Assistant. •Keep close communication with Purchasing Assistant and Purchasing director on slow moving and non moving items in the warehouse •Collection of goods from Customs when necessary Starting salary $7.50 per hour not including service charge and tips Restaurant and Bars Manager The Restaurants and Bars Manager will oversee the daily operation of P23 fine dining restaurant; Plunge casual outdoor restaurant and bar, Green Flamingo bar and In-room Dining. Requirements: •Minimum of 7 years in senior management experience in luxury setting in at least 2 international locations. •Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience. •Strong knowledge of a variety of cuisines and wines/beverage. •Strong understanding and proven track record of operational controls and sales •Proven ability to train and develop team members. •Ability to take initiative while working effectively in a team environment •Excellent organizational skills. •Passion for luxury food and beverage service; positive and cheerful attitude with high energy. •Computer skills at advanced level (Word, Excel and PowerPoint) •Must be able to work all shifts and days
Duties Include: •Supervises, trains and coaches staff to meet Regent standard of luxury and ensure The Regent Experience for guests. •Develops business strategies for food & beverage outlets aligned with business objectives for maximizing revenue and guest satisfaction. •Participates in development of budgets and monitors status regularly to ensure achievement of financial targets. •Assists in developing and implementing marketing and promotions to increase business and revenue. •Works closely with culinary team to create and implement menus consistent with guest expectations and Regent standards of luxury and quality. Starting salary $40,000 per annum, not including service charge Bartender Requirements: •Must have 3 years experience as a bartender in branded luxury resort •Must have advanced knowledge of beverage preparation and service of alcoholic beverages with ability to mix, garnishes and present drinks using standard ingredient recipes. •Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties Include: •Maintain proper and adequate setup of the bar on a daily basis and cleaning of bar area on closing. •Requisitioning and stocking of all beer, wine, spirits, paper products, etc. and produce based projections from the daily functions sheet. •Maintaining stock, cutting and storing of all fresh fruit and vegetable garnishes, juices and other perishables daily to insure product quality. •Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Starting wage $6.25 per hour not including service charge and tips. Spa Therapist/Technician Requirements: •Diploma in massage therapy or equivalent. •Prior experience in a 5-star luxury environment. •Extensive knowledge of Eastern style massage, wraps, facials and other treatments. •Proficiency in English. •Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties Include: •Providing spa treatments to resort guests and day spa guests. •Maximize the revenue of the department through massage and retail product sales. •In addition to performance of the essential functions, this position may be “required to perform a combination of support functions Starting salary $6.25 per hour not including service charge, commission and tips. Interested applicants should apply to The Palms, Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday, and bring along an updated resume, or by emailing your resume to kitchandra.penn@thepalmstc. com, no later than end of day Friday, September 18th, 2015.
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
•Assist in and facilitate projects, renovations and resource for departments of multiple properties/companies within the organization •To coordinate the preparation and review of annual property budgets.
The Sands is now accepting applications/resume for the following positions. Only highly self-driven & motivated, personable and professional individuals, whom have the desire to serve others, need apply: ENGINEERING FACILITIES MANAGER
Requirements: •Strong communication (written and oral) and interpersonal skills •Excellent qualitative analysis skills as evidenced by prior work history •Proficiency with Microsoft Office Documents – Must be able to build Excel reports etc. •Must have a Bachelor’s Degree in Business •Accounting/Commerce Degree preferred •At least three years’ experience in a relevant management position
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS To achieve hotel revenue, profit and owner/customer satisfaction goals by directing and overseeing on-going preventative maintenance, repairs, upkeep, projects and renovations of the Hotel/Resort, Maintenance, Pool & Beach areas, Grounds/ REVENUE MANAGER Landscaping and Security Services. Highly involved with owner Responsibilities: •Maximizes revenue through developing rate strategy, integrity and guest relations, project management, inventories and and inventory controls (yield management) reporting systems. •Ensure room rates, allotments and allocations are set up and •Troubleshooting and repairing malfunctions in electrical/ recorded properly mechanical/plumbing systems (e.g. HVAC, boilers, treatment •Monitors rate transparency, integrity and availability plant system, pumps, fire systems, refrigeration systems, throughout all distribution channels lighting, appliances & other hotel equipment). •Develops and maintains internal and external revenue •Conducting ongoing room preventative maintenance platforms for reporting systems program. •Develops and maintains records for accurate forecasts, pace •Resolving maintenance problems, complaints, work orders to reports and revenue based budgets for multi-faceted company prioritize, schedule work and cost out work orders. •Creates and provides analytical data records •HVAC, machinery, mechanics, carpentry and painting •Creates and upload promotions on company websites, conducts skills, as well as drywall, carpet/tile repair work, or other consistent price comparisons of competitive sets and makes maintenance related trade, certification/s is a plus. Inspecting recommendations property, units/rooms, and hotel departments to identify •Drives new revenue streams across multiple platforms potential and current needs. •Defines optimal room allocation and rate strategies •Ensuring department expenditures meet budget to maximize revenue contribution based on intelligent requirements. Assisting with the capital budget process. recommendations •Soliciting bids/quotes from contractors and evaluating their •Tracks and evaluates room sales and customer behavior with proposals with hotel management. advanced, centralized reporting providing a 360° view of cross•Coordinating with local health, safety, fire, and building company activity inspectors to ensure compliance with applicable codes and •Respond quickly to changes in the market, monitors the macro regulations. and micro environment •Ensure pools and hot tub are properly maintained to include •Monitors, updates and resolves Extranet discrepancies daily cleanliness and chemical content. •Performs training for the Reservations Team and cross •Maintaining the building exterior including services training with the Front Office by outside contractor/s (e.g. lawn care, painting, etc.). •Analyzes current and historical data to identify business Supervising and scheduling of Maintenance Technicians, trends Pool and Beach, Grounds/Landscaping, and Security Services •Work directly with guests and staff to ensure customer service staff. levels are of the utmost priority •Performs MOD shifts as required Payroll Control and Scheduling… Determine appropriate •Participates in Sales Meetings, Familiarization Tours, Site staffing levels based on forecasted rooms nights/occupancy and Inspections, Revenue meetings and appointments, Trade anticipated business and create staffing schedules which optimize Shows, Marketing and PR Functions as requested by the the balance between desired profitability, owner/customer General Manager demands and employee needs. Requirements: •Must have 5+ years of reservations manager or assistant revenue manager experience •Must have high mathematically skills, strong set of analytical skills in both inductive and deductive plus working knowledge SPECIFIC JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES and ability to create and maintain spreadsheet solutions The individual must possess the following knowledge, skills and •Must be able to build Excel reports etc. abilities and be able to explain and demonstrate that he/she •Compiles and provides combined internet room selling channel can perform the essential functions of the job, with or without analysis, growth and demand. reasonable accommodation, using some other combination of •Analyzes, distributes and make recommendations on Star knowledge, skills, and abilities. Market Reports for revenue strategy meetings. •Must possess highly effective skills to speak, read, write and •Reviews market and industry trends and makes understand the primary language(s) used in the workplace. recommendations •Must possess highly effective skills to read and write to •Must have direct knowledge of competitive set to evaluate facilitate the communication process. business needs and future growth •Must possess high organizational and follow-up skills. •Must have at least 5 years of Condo Resort experience •Must possess excellent mathematical skills. •Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration or Hospitality •Must possess excellent computational skills with specific and Management required direct working knowledge of Microsoft Office Software; Excel, •Must have GDS and IDS experience Word, Power Point and Outlook. •Must have experience in OPERA and Visual 1 •Must be able to build Excel reports, and read and build formula-based spread sheets. •Must be able to operate pumps, equipment, motors and POOL & BEACH SUPERVISOR Responsibilities: company vehicles as required. •Oversees and maintain complete safety in and around pool and •Must possess excellent motor vehicle driving skills with valid beach areas Driver’s License •Follows operating standards in accordance to TCI laws and hotel procedures on job duties and life-safety QUALIFICATION STANDARDS •Maintains proper levels of service and equipment furniture and maintenance Education College or university is preferred. •Assist in the conducting of guest activities in the pool areas Experience Prerequisite A minimum of five years resort •Monitor entire cleaning operations for the cleanliness, health experience in the capacity of Engineering Maintenance Manager and sanitation of the pools and surrounding area or higher in a Condo-Hotel/Resort is required. •Assist in every way possible to assure proper customer service Licenses or Certificates Maintenance/engineering certification is being upheld. in applicable field preferred. •Enforces pool and beach sanitation and safety rules and requirements COMMERCIAL ASSET MANAGER •Supervises pool and beach areas for safety and customer Responsibilities: service •To create and execute project work plans and updates in •Monitors and upholds guest areas (No Solicitation policy is accordance with changes in enforced and facilities for registered hotel guests only) need •Trains new employees on proper protocol and customer service •To identify resources needed and assign individual •Ensures all furniture setting are inline, organized and set to responsibilities hotel resort standards •To manage day-to-day operational aspects of a project and •Complete all tasks for the day and oversee all duties/projects scope including cost and timein a timely fashion line estimates, diagrams, and work team •Ensure safety precautions are followed in pool area and •To follow the communication process as established by the identify possible safety hazards and reports to management Brand which facilitates a •Monitor supplies and reports all damaged furniture to single point of contact providing knowledgeable and reliable management support for product and •Perform all other duties as assigned by the Property Manager renovation information.
Performance Management, Supervisory… Demonstrate ability to relate to, communicate with, and motivate employees to sustain high performance, quality services and product/s.
•Be fully knowledgeable and conversant on established coreRequirements: brand and multi-product line •High School Diploma standards and specifications •Must have prior pool/beach supervisory experience •Act as a resource to determine and support hotel compliance •Prior experience at a luxury property or hotel with company specifications •Life-safety training and certification CPR, AED, First Aid, involving products and project related activities Water Safety required •Provide written documentation on all drawing, plan, •Being an excellent swimmer is required period certification specification and interior design / may be required FFE submittal reviews to the Owner and appropriate •Working with Pool Chemicals is required consultants •Working during inclement weather •To assist Project Managers in producing operating budgets, •Hands on knowledge of non-motorized sports equipment set-up plans and strategies for and handling is required property development. •Cleaning and skimming pools is required •Assist in the development of maintenance plans and capital •Must be able to stand and work outdoors for an extended period replacement projections for of time commercial property.
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015 •Weekend and flexible shifts are a must •Must have excellent written and oral communication •Must have outstanding customer service and leadership skills •Must be reliable and professional •Must be proficient with computers, including Excel, Word and Outlook. •Must be able to lift 40 lbs. •Must be able to multitask and follow direction. •Must be detailed oriented. ASSISTANT HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGER Responsibilities: •Provide job candidates by screening, interviewing, and testing applicants; notifying existing staff of internal opportunities; maintaining personnel records; obtaining temporary staff from agencies. •Administers medical insurance, staff incentive programs by advising employees of eligibility; providing application information; helping with form completion; verifying submission; notifying employees of approvals. •Monitors unemployment claims by reviewing claims; substantiating documentation; requesting legal counsel review. •Conduct disciplinary hearings, terminations, and training. •Maintains human resources records by recording new hires, transfers, terminations, changes in job classifications, merit increases; tracking vacation, sick, and personal time. •Orients new employees by providing orientation information packets; reviewing company policies; gathering withholding and other payroll information; explaining and obtaining signatures for benefit programs. •Documents human resources actions by completing forms, reports, logs, and records. •Handling staff queries and incidents regarding payroll and HR. •Preparation of employee contracts and offer letters. •Provide advice regarding employee relations and immigration\ labour issues. •Create position job descriptions as necessary. Requirements: •Previous experience in an administrative role (essential.) •Demonstrate an interest in working in Human Resources. Previous experience in a Human Resources role is desirable but not essential. •Have experience in a hotel or hospitality environment (desirable) •Be able to demonstrate keen attention to detail •Have strong IT skills - the role will use Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook on a daily basis •Have a fluent level of verbal and written English, and be confident in communicating with different levels within the organization •Have extensive knowledge of TCI Labour and Immigration laws •Have excellent interpersonal, communication and presentation skills •Bachelor’s degree preferred MAINTENACE/ HVAC TECHNICIAN Responsibilities: •To skillfully and professionally perform all scheduled maintenance related jobs. •Account for time spent on individual work requests/orders and actively seek further tasks when assigned tasks are completed. •To advise the Engineering Administrator when parts or supplies need to be reordered. •Perform weekly and monthly physical counts of all inventory stock and tooling and requirements. •Any other duties assigned and/or as deemed necessary by the Engineering Administrator. •Reassembling and testing equipment following repairs •Repairing and replacing defective equipment, components in addition to wiring •Laying out and connecting electrical wiring between controls and equipment •Obtaining and maintaining required certifications •Maintain machinery, equipment, and tools •Upkeep, installation, and maintenance of hydraulic, pneumatic, electronic, mechanical and electrical systems on all production machines •Performs preventive maintenance and makes repairs to heating, ventilating, air conditioning equipment according to instructions such as replacing belts on motors, changing filters, bearings, etc. •Lays out, assembles, installs, and maintains pipe systems and related hydraulic and pneumatic equipment, and repairs and replaces gauges, valves, pressure regulators, and related equipment Requirements: •As a HVAC Technician, you must comply with all applicable standards, policies and procedures, including safety procedures and the maintenance of a clean work area. We are seeking a detail-oriented mechanic with experience in both commercial and residential installation and services. •Refrigeration experience. •Must meet minimum professional qualification/certification in Plumbing/Electrical/ Mechanical and A/C related trades. •Follows proper safety practices and procedures as required of the position. •Must have minimum of two years hands-on experience working on minor electrical, painting, plumbing and A/C. •Must speak, read, write and understand the primary language (English) used in the workplace. •Must work weekends and holidays. •Must work AM and PM shifts as business demands according to the operations policy. •Must have reliable transportation to get to and from work. LINE POSITIONS FRONT OFFICE AGENT, HOUSEKEEPING ROOM ATTENDANT, HOUSEMAN LABOURER, LAUNDRY ATTENDANT, POOL & BEACH ATTENDANT, GROUNDSMEN, PURCHASING AGENT/MAINTENANCE ADMINISTRATOR For the above line staff positions, resort experience is an asset but not a requirement. Applicants must have a willing, positive and personable attitude as well as be willing to work holidays and weekends. They should also enjoy serving people and be willing to learn. Turks & Caicos Islands citizens only need to apply to the Assistant Human Resources Manager at The Sands Resort located on Grace Bay Road, Providenciales or e-mail: humanresource@ thesandstc.com. Deadline is September 30, 2015.
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
Page 19
LOCAL NEWS
$580,000 spent on school repairs, says Hon. Amanda Missick
Job Title: Plant Maintenance Supervisor Location: DigicelPlay, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Job Summary:
Responsible for supervision of the plant maintenance department staff and the recommendations for network upgrades along with proactive maintenance to ensure the TCI HFC network is maintained efficiently and responsibly
Responsibilities:
Minister of Environment, Home Affairs and Agriculture Hon. Amanda Missick
has been done in terms of the repairs to the Governments schools Government allocated in preparation for the new school $600,000 for school repairs this year, the name of the school, and year, of which $580,000 have been the works done. spent to date. Deputy Opposition Leader This was revealed by and MP for Five Cays, Hon. Sean Minister for Environment, Home Astwood, also asked how much of Affairs and Agriculture Hon. the $580,000 was spent on repairs Amanda Missick during a meeting to the Enid Capron Primary School of the House of Assembly on in Five Cays, to which Minister Monday September 14th, 2015. Missick replied $20,535. She said the works ranged When asked by Astwood if from interior and exterior building she aware that some repairs to the repairs, electrical and plumbing as Enid Capron Primary school had well as the repair and replacement been done by parents and teachers of various doors, locks and fixtures, of that school, the Hon. Minister among other things. Missick replied: “Mr. Speaker as far “At the moment, 98 percent as parents volunteering to do work of the works at the 13 schools have at the school, that is a normal thing. been completed in all areas where Maybe what was covered in the repairs were needed,” Hon. Missick contract probably there was some said. “I have compiled a list of the stuff that was needed to be done to bills of quantities for the work done the school that was not under the to each of the 13 schools which I will contract because the contract has lay on the table of this Honorable specific allocations for whatever House.” work is supposed to be done. If Missick was responding something was not covered such as to a question from Opposition painting a blackboard or something Leader Hon. Sharlene Cartwright- small, maybe the parents just Robinson, who asked what work volunteered to do.” By Todeline Defralien
Ramp
Supervisor vacancies:
Flight Support is seeking to fill two positions for ramp supervisors, suitable qualified applicant must have the following: 2-5 years hands on experience in ramp/airside duties Trained and certified in areas of ramp/airside duties, knowledgeable and experience with Weight & Balance and Load Control Ability to manage and schedule staff to provide adequate manpower coverage for multiple operations running simultaneously. Knowledge of multi carrier operations, Experience in handling jet and prop aircraft Excellent command of written and spoken English. CXC/ equilivant passes ,in English and Maths Computer literate especially in usage of excel well organized Detailed orientated Strong leadership qualities. Must hold a valid police record and legal immigration status. Interested person should apply to HR@intercaribbean.com or via fax to HR Department 649-946-4040. No phone call please. Qualified candidates will be contacted for interview.
•Splice multiple count fibre optic cables and trouble shoot the fibre optic network •Install and trouble shoot power supplies ranging 60 to 90 volts AC •Install, activate and balance CATV optical nodes along with all associated HFC active components for forward and return path signal for both TV and internet (DOCSIS 3.0) •Understand HFC network and provide design recommendations where required •Proficient in using HFC test equipment (DSAM 6300, OTDRs, Spectrum Analyzers) •Willing to work beyond normal business hours for the protection of the network and provide excellent customer experience. •Hire, train, and evaluate assigned staff. •Coordinate installation activity with customer service and sales departments. •Perform quality control checks of completed installations. •Undertake vehicle and tool audits on a regular basis to ensure DIGICEL corporate image is being maintained. •Complete weekly, monthly or other reports as required. •Consult with customers to resolve installation concerns. •Submit work order paperwork in a timely and completed manner on a daily basis to dispatch •Ensure that technical quality and safety standards are adhered to at all times •Stock company vehicle with necessary tools, supplies and equipment and maintain all company assets in accordance with DIGICEL Code of Conduct and Ethics
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:
•Degree in BS Electrical or Electronics or equivalent •Certified Fibre Optic Cable Technician or installer •Must have 10-15 years related experience in fiber optic and cable TV industry •Demonstrated leadership skills through minimum of two years of managing teams.
Functional Skills: •Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively communicate information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public. •Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry. •Valid driver’s license and ability to use standard tools •Ability to work within confined spaces, such as crawl spaces, manholes etc, while performing duties of this job. •The employee is regularly required to use; hands and fingers, handle or feel and reach with hands and arms •The employee is frequently required to; stand, walk, sit, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crawl or crouch as well as talk and hear. •Must be capable of carrying heavy equipment and is required to climb poles using ladders up to 32ft, must frequently lift and or move up to 70 pounds and have the ability to pull equivalent of up to 150 pounds of force •Must maintain a high level of confidentiality and work with highly sensitive data and information •Ability to work unsupervised and handle multiple priority assignments simultaneously •Excellent troubleshooting and analytical skills •Demonstrate ability to work in cross-functional teams •Ability to meet deadlines while paying attention to detail •High degree of initiative and creativity
DEADLINE:
Interested applicants should forward their Resume and Cover letter to hrtci@digicelgroup.com on or before September 28th, 2015
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
TCI plays master role in FirstCaribbean Bank’s soaring profit
By Vivian Tyson
Senior Sun Editor The Turks and Caicos Islands played a major role in CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank’s quick return to profitability because it was one of the first countries in the region to climb from the worldwide financial crisis. This was revealed by the bank’s Regional CEO Rik Parkhill, during a news conference with the local media on Monday, September 14, 2016, at the financial institution’s Leeward Highway, Providenciales branch. Parkhill, who, is based at the bank’s headquarters in Barbados, was in the country to hold the bank’s Bahamas Operating Company’s (of which the TCI is a part) first directors meeting in five years, and to also meet with stakeholders and to tell of the institution’s performance. He said that the bank recently released its third quarter report for its regional operation and recorded the highest net income in the last five years. “Part of the growth that we are experiencing comes from Turks and Caicos, where we have a healthy and growing business. We see a lot
of opportunities in Turks and Caicos. and we see a lot of opportunities, not growth environment and undertook a We have been a significant financier only on the corporate, which I have rather painful restructuring process, of the airport in Provo, as well as we mentioned in terms of the hospitality which started about two years ago, have a lot of customers in the hotel sector and infrastructure, but also and is nearly finished. It has had and hospitality business, and that is expanding our mortgage business a significant one in terms of lower a business that we are still interested here. operating cost and allowing us a in, and there is a lot of current The economy is growing at a faster break-even point at a much lower development going on as well as some rate here and this is a big focus for the level of business. projected developments that we are bank and to make sure that we get “So I think one of the interested in,” he said. the lion’s share of the opportunities advantages we have at the bank is He said the increased in that come down the road,” he said. that we took that medicine early and profitability is being used to expand Parkhill revealed also that I think we have shown a great deal of its business with new products and CIBC FirstCaribbean is interested resilience since then and being able services, particularly to add value in becoming part of the funders for to be profitable even than most of the and enhance customer experience. the $260 million UK-backed loan economies that we are operating in, He said, too, that its Turks guarantee, which expires next year. which really have not returned to fulland Caicos Islands operation has “We are certainly taking a very fledged recovery,” Parkhill said. played a key role in the cutting of good look at it, and look at the He added: “It, of course, also its non-performing loan ratio, noting government’s finances as well as their allows us to absorb unanticipated that the bank expect to expand in the projected financial positions. We are future economic shocks a lot better.” TCI in the near future. full participant in this economy, and In the meantime, Parkhill said that “Our non-performing loans peaked one of the things that we do is invest the bank has undergone a great of regionally in 2012, just under a shade in government securities, and so, we expansion in some of the jurisdictions of $US 1 billion. At the end of the third will certainly take a good look at it,” which it operates. quarter, they stood at US$650 million, he said. “We are expanding quite so they are down quite considerably He said that one of the rapidly in the Dutch Caribbean, from the peak. And even since the reasons CIBC FirstCaribbean vaulted Jamaica and Trinidad as well. But second quarter they have dropped early from the abyss of the financial Turks and Caicos, as I have mentioned, quite significantly. crisis was because it took any early has been a very good market for us “I think you are going to see decision to restructure, which he said and we see a lot of opportunities to an expansion of our operations in became painful at times. grow because the economy has come Turks and Caicos. This has historically “So what we have done as a bank, we out of recession here faster than the been a strong performer within the have restructured ourselves so we norm as the rest of the region,” he regional operation that the bank has, could be reasonably profitable in a low said.
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but not be limited to:
Seven Stars Resort is currently seeking highly qualified candidates to fill the positions outlined below. The ideal candidate must possess the relevant professional qualifications and experience in a luxury resort environment, as well as a professional, outgoing and friendly demeanor with a strong command of the English Language (oral and written). Salary is based on education, experience and qualifications. SPA MANAGER We are currently looking for a Spa Manager to join our dynamic Team at Seven Stars Resort. An exciting opportunity to provide strategic leadership and manage the operation of the Spa department, drive Spa team to achieve its financial goals, and ensure a unique and great Spa experience to all its guests, while maintaining The Spa at Seven Stars standards. Duties will include, but not be limited to: Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities •Spa Therapy qualification required. •To maintain a high customer guest service focus. •Constantly strive to increase guest satisfaction through quality, creativity, range and value for money available throughout the property. •To remain up to date with Spa Trends in the health and leisure services through internet, magazines and other applicable media. •To manage stock control and inventories. •To carry out performance appraisals. •Ability to work long hours. •To handle any guest complaints, requests and inquiries in a timely, efficient and friendly manner. •To actively promote and sell the appropriate well-being services and retail to the guests. •To ensure that the departmental operation budget is strictly adhered to maximizing revenues and minimizing expenses. •To prepare all required monthly reports in relation to revenue & expenses •To prepare annual Spa budget. •Possess the ability to work without direct supervision. •To keep excellent relationships with associates, peers, and all other colleagues of the hotel. •To attend and actively participate in training sessions. •To ensure punctuality, excellent grooming and hygiene for team and self. •Ability to display a high level of integrity and professionalism at all times in dealing with guest, employees and outside contacts. •To ensure smooth and efficient operation of the department. •To maintain accurate records of each individuals performance. •To maintain a high moral within the department. •Fluent in English and additional languages desirable. •Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a five star luxury hotel •Minimum of 3 years management experience in a high volume Spa operation. •Able to perform the full range of therapies. •Excellent customer service skills. •Able to demonstrate excellent people & communication skills. •Able to work calmly & confidently under pressure. •Competent with excel & word. •Performs any additional duties as assigned.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities •Degree from accredited culinary school. •Several years’ experience in the food industry and food production •Possess considerable knowledge in food preparation, presentation and portion control. •Ability to plan, organize and direct the activities of employees in the kitchen area. •Ability to develop an effective working relationship with fellow employees and supervisors. •Ability to read, write and communicate effectively with co-workers and customers in an English speaking environment. •Coordinate all food orders between stations and food servers. •Assist in directing and correcting the presentation and portioning of food for all banquet functions. •Adhere to policies and procedures regarding sanitation and sanitary food handling. •Maintains the work area, including all counter tops, utensils, equipment, and refrigeration in a clean and sanitary condition in accordance with company health and safety regulations. •Have thorough knowledge of menus and the preparation required, according to hotel standards. •Maintain cleanliness and organization of all storage areas •Prepare and display buffet food items according to the hotel standards. •Proficiency in the following cooking techniques: charbroiling, poaching, deep-frying, sauté, braising, roasting and par-cooking. •Recognize quality standards in fresh vegetables, fish, dairy, and meat products. •Knowledge of herbs and spices and proper use of each. •Prepare food for Banquets, as required, following specifications on Banquet Event Orders. •Preparation of specials will be under the direction of the Executive Chef. •Breakdown buffets and plated meals, storing food and equipment properly at the end of each meal period. •Work banquet food station as scheduled by the Executive Chef. •Know the location and operation of all fire extinguishing equipment. •Practice safe work habits at all times to avoid possible injury to self or other employees. •Be able to support any position in the Kitchen that is in need of help. •Must be able to work in hot kitchen, in fast paced environments and in demanding situations. •Must be willing to begin work some days in the early morning hours and other times remain at work late into the night depending on the size and time of a particular banquet. •Must be able to work weekends and holidays as these are common times for banquets. •Must be able to handle heavy lifting, long hours of standing and other taxing physical activities. •Makes sure adequate numbers of kitchen staff are scheduled to properly handle each banquet. •Meets with potential banquet clients to discuss menu options. •Must have the ability to multi-task while remaining focused on the goal. •Must have excellent verbal communication and leadership skills. •Be able to express creativity through food selections, preparation and presentation. •Must be detail oriented. •Must have the ability to remain calm in high stress situations. •Be able to solve problems quickly under pressure. •Must have adequate upper body strength for heavy lifting and strong back and leg muscles for hours of standing, bending and walking around. •Perform additional duties as the need arises ENGINEERING SUPERVISOR
SPA THERAPIST We are currently seeking a Spa Therapist to administer professional massage and body treatments to our valued guests. In addition to performing treatment procedures at the highest standards of service, the Spa Therapist will have thorough knowledge of various massage techniques and possess a comprehensive understanding of body treatments included, but not limited to, facials, massages, physiotherapy, wellness solutions, manicures, and pedicures. The ideal candidate will have excellent communication skills with the ability to deliver service in accordance with the Resorts high standards. Required Qualifications •5-7 years’ experience in the Spa and Beauty industry •Relevant degree or equivalent combination of experience and education •Exceptional knowledge of current spa trends, products and treatments •Proven skills up-selling, cross-selling and pre-selling services and products •Knowledge of holistic concepts and treatments including facials, full body treatments, massages, physiotherapy, and manicures and pedicures •Enthusiastic demeanor with excellent customer service skills •Professional appearance and business friendly approach •Strong communication skills with strong listening skills and a good command of the English language •Exceptionally clean with a strong attention to detail •Self -motivated with very strong organization skills •Ability to stand and walk for up to 8 consecutive hours per day •Ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds PASTRY CHEF The Pastry Chef will be responsible for running and operating all pastry and bakery functions while remaining within budget and maximizing food margins. Duties will include, but not be limited to: •Create new designs and recipes for pastries and baked goods, and coordinate all activities related to the preparation and production of same. •Plan and develop new desserts for restaurants, banquets and special functions, i.e., weddings. •Prepare all items with the highest quality standards and consistency. •Maintain communication with Executive Chef to ensure production requirements are met and bakery inventory levels are sufficient. •Monitor food products to ensure proper quality, handling and rotation, and work with stock controller to maintain quality control. •Maintain a safe and clean work environment at all times and follow all HAACP regulations for storage and cooling. •Maintains a neat and tidy appearance at all times The ideal candidate will have 3-5 years’ experience preparing a variety of breads, cakes and pastries, along with a strong food service background. An artistic and creative ability to produce desserts, pastries and baked goods is required. A strong knowledge of ingredients and an exceptional attention to detail is essential. Physical ability to stand for long periods of time, and ability to work under pressure and meet aggressive deadlines is required. Must be computer literate. BANQUET COOK As Banquet Cook, you would be responsible for preparing, seasoning and cooking a variety of meats, vegetables, soups, breakfast’s dishes and other food selection under the chef ’s supervision while respecting hygiene and safety procedures. Responsibilities will include,
The Engineering Supervisor supervises and coordinates activities of workers engaged in maintaining and repairing physical structures of buildings and maintaining grounds. To accomplish this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation, each essential function satisfactorily. Required Qualifications •Two years college degree in a technical field or work equivalent. •Experience in Maintenance Engineering and basic carpentry •Knowledge of Mintec PM program •Certification or completion of seminars for specialized training. •Provides professional and courteous service at all times. •Assist Engineering Manager with all maintenance and preventative maintenance to include: refrigeration, heating, plumbing, water treatment, preventative maintenance, convention center front and back of house spaces, A/C units, ice machines, lighting, kitchen equipment, emergency generators, water softeners, switch rooms, roof exhausts, electrical substations, etc. •Monitors electric, gas and water consumption. •Ensures all projects are completed according to specifications and are completed on time. •Perform all guestroom and public area preventive maintenance services as outlined for your hotel. •Performs maintenance checks of equipment and logs properly. •Reports all safety and security concerns to the Engineering Manager or the Manager on Duty immediately. •Ensures all key inventories are secure. •Responds to all emergency situations. •Participates in ongoing maintenance programs for event space, public space, kitchens and all convention center equipment. •Performs inventory duties as required. •Maintains cleanliness of grounds and attractiveness of landscaping. •Ensures cleanliness and orderliness of all work space and storage areas. •Attends monthly staff meetings. •Complete projects as determined by the Engineering Manager.
In addition, we are also currently recruiting for the following: •Cook •Security Officer •Room Attendant •Inventory Controller •Spa Therapist •Carpenter •Watersports Instructor
Application deadline: October 2, 2015 Qualified candidates should contact hr@sevenstarsgracebay for immediate consideration. Candidates must possess relevant skills, experience, and a clean police record.
ONLY CANDIDATES MEETING ABOVE REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS WILL BE CONTACTED.
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
LOCAL NEWS
CIBC FirstCaribbean holds cocktail party for customers The Regional Head for CIBC FirstCaribean International Bank, Rik Parkhill and his designated successor Gary Brown visited the Turks and Caicos Islands to meet with stakeholders and to get their feedback on the institution’s offerings and to see what measures could be put in place for the future. His visit was also characterized by the
Bahamas Company of the bank, which the Turks and Caicos Islands is a part, holding its first executive meeting in the TCI in five years. One of Parkhill’s activities was to hold a cocktail party for its customers at the Key West Village at Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort and Spa. The following are photo highlights of the event.
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LOCAL NEWS
The search for Rev. Dr. Conrad Howell
One of Turks and Caicos Islands’ beloved sons, Rev. Dr. Conrad Howell, went missing late Thursday, September 10, 2015 (, and his body was found on Saturday, September 12, 2015, in bushes a few metres from the building that houses the law firm Missick and Stanbrook. Persons
took it upon themselves to search areas near his house on Friday, but the search intensified on Saturday morning, which involved Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing, some of his ministers, the police and a wide cross-section of the community. The following are highlights of the search.
A police officers addresses the gathering after the search
A team about to search in the Cherokee Road in its environs on Saturday
From left – Hayden, Editor-in-Chief of The SUN; former Premier Mike Misick; Boyce’s wife Search Dog Coco, owned by this man, who goes by the Lillian Boyce, a former government minister name Oscar, found Dr. Howell’s body and Pastor Karen Higgs
Searchers go over areas already searched and areas to embark on Police Officer Sabuton John, leads the search Ft. Bernard Been of St. Monica’s Anglican Church was also involved in the church
Searchers comb bushes behind the Providencial International Airport in the vicinity of the old Avis Car Rental location
A male cadet officer comforts his female counterpart after she learned that Dr. Conrad Howell was dead
This woman Almartha Thomas (standing) comforts Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing after he was dealt the bad news. In the background is Minister for Border Control and Labour Hon. Don-Hue Gardiner
Former Premier Michael Misick and current premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing apparently trying to come to terms with the death of Dr. Howell
The Howell family is comforted by well-wishers. Edgar Howell (second from left), Director for Education, is one of Dr. Conrad Howell’s younger siblings
Tumbalina Carter (left) an d Claudine Ewing comfort each other and they both cried at the sad news
An obvious sign of grief and heartbreak being displayed on the faces of these men
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
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Ticketing (International, Domestic & Regional), Cruises, Car Rentals, Hotels, Vacation Home Rentals, US & Bahamian Visa Application Assistance
LONDOLOZI LTD. is inviting suitable applications for the following positions Financial Accountant
We are seeking to employ an experienced Financial Controller who will be reporting to the CFO. Responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following: •Execute and/or coordinate general accounting and related activities •Supervise the operations of the accounts office and Night Audit. •Management of the finance function and overseeing the finance team. •Prepare End of Month journals and conduct the Closing process. •Assist in the installation of any new software - document retention, inventory management, payroll, POS. •Preparation of budgets, forecasts and cash flows •Maintenance of financial ledgers and accounting processes •Preparation of Monthly P&L and Balance Sheet •Ensuring that appropriate systems and internal controls are implemented and maintained •Overseeing the Payroll process
Qualifications: •CPA Certification (CA, CGA or CMA) •3 to 5 years of relevant experience in hospitality financial management •Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Visual One and Quickbooks accounting software •Verbal and written English and good interpersonal skills •Capacity to plan and organize work •Analytical skills and problem solving capacities
PASTRY SOUS CHEF
RESPONSIBILITIES •Planning all pastry production according to menus and event orders. •Preparing detailed production lists to ensure efficient and accurate pastry production. •Participates in preparing desserts and setting up dessert buffets and stations. •Ability to work independently, multi-task and organize work to manage time effectively and meet deadlines. •Implementing new recipes and pastry procedures to meet and exceed customers’ expectations for variety, quality and creativity. •Implementing new items that meet current dietary trends such as gluten free, sugar free, dairy free, etc. •Requisitioning of supplies and equipment. •Maintaining highest level of sanitation standards at all times. Adheres to all local health and safety regulations. •Ensuring that all work areas are safe and secure; reports any unsafe conditions to supervisor.
JOB REQUIREMENTS •The Pastry Chef must have a minimum 3-5 years of Pastry Culinary experience in a resort/ hotel environment. •Culinary Arts or Bachelor’s Degree preferred. •MUST have experience in a high-volume, quality pastry kitchen with strong supervisory skills. •Our working chef will be responsible for the supervision, coordination and preparation of house-made desserts, pastries and confections. Salary for these positions will commensurate with qualifications and experience. Please Submit Applications to: hr@beachhousetci.com A copy should also be submitted to the TCI Labour Department. Submissions to be no later than September 25th, 2015 Belongers need only apply.
BLUE HAVEN RESORT is inviting applications for the following positions: Sous Chef Reporting to the Executive Sous Chef, responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following: •Assists in conducting periodic food inventories. •Assists the Executive Chef with departmental human resource functions. •Initiates and oversees ordering of food and kitchen supplies. •Supervises and coordinates the production of food according to menu specifications. •Assists the Chefs and Cooks in preparation of specific cuisine. •Inspects quality of food products used to prepare cuisine. Informs Executive Chef when quality is not acceptable. •Ensures all cuisine served to guests follow establish guidelines for quantity, quality, appearance, and palatability. •Checks physical cleanliness of operations. Ensures all staff practice “clean as you go” techniques. •Insures that staff is following all safe serve and health inspection standards. •Maintains proper working order of all equipment. Inspects ovens, burners, water faucets, and refrigerators. Reports deficiencies to Engineering Department. Requirements: •Graduate culinary art or Culinary degree strongly preferred •6-10 years previous experience as a cook •Full knowledge of ordering work schedule. Physical Aspects: (include but are not limited to): •Constant standing and walking throughout shift •Lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. •Pushing, pulling, lifting Salary for these positions will commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Please Submit Applications to:
hr@bluehavenresort.com A copy should also be submitted to the TCI Labour Department. Submissions to be no later than October 2nd, 2015 Belongers need only apply.
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
Come and join our winning team!!! Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages and Spa, the only 6 Diamond all inclusive property in the Caribbean is inviting applications from suitably qualified Turks and Caicos Islanders for the following vacant positions. Applicants must have a clean police record and a good command of the English language both written and spoken. In addition candidates must be able to work nights, public holidays and week-ends. The Resort thanks everyone for their interest in advance and advises that only short listed applicants will be contacted for an interview.
The Accounts Department requires:
The Kitchen Department requires:
•Director of Finance Requirements include but are not limited to: o Ability to manage a multimillion dollar financial portfolio. o Ability to manage and oversee the Warehouse, Cost Control and Accounts departments, in the areas of strategic, day to day, budget and staff management o Over 10 years as a Financial Controller in a five star or six diamond resort with over 700 rooms
•Executive Sous Chef Requirements include but are not limited to: o Culinary certification an asset o To create recipes and menus. o Oversee the training and development of staff. The salary for the position listed above is negotiable and based on experience.
The Dining Room Department requires:
•Head/ Chef Baker Requirements include but are not limited to: o Over 5 years’ experience in as a Baker o Ability to work all shifts especially the 11:00 pm to 7:00 am shift o Ability to train staff and develop new recipes
•Director of Food and Beverage Requirements include but are not limited to: o 10 years’ experience in F/B Management, o Knowledge of restaurant, bar/lounge, banquets, room service and kitchen operational experience. o Knowledge of OSHA standards.
The salary for the position listed above ranges from $20,000.00 to $30,000.00 Kitchen Department requires:
The salary for the positions listed above is negotiable and based on experience.
•Junior Chef Requirements include but are not limited to: o Experience leading a team of cooks (supervisor) o Must have worked in a Resort kitchen or medium to large sized restaurant o Must have over three years’ experience o Professional qualification an asset
The Spa Department requires: •Assistant Spa Manager Requirements include but are not limited to: o Experience in managing multiple spa retail outlets o Knowledge or certification in Dermalogica Brand an assist o Ability to sell services and product o Ability to meet targets and sales quotas
The rate for the position listed above is $6.25 to $7.00 an hour. The Watersports & Catamaran Department requires:
The Rooms Division Department Requires:
•Boat Captain •First Mate Requirements include but not limited to: o Boat License o Experience with a crew over 7persons
•Front Office Manager •Assistant Front Office Manager Requirements include but are not limited to: o Three years managing two or more Concierge desk o Excellent customer service skills o Ability to multitask and give the guest more than he or she expects
•First Mate Requirements include but are not limited to: o Physically Fit o Certified lifeguard o Certified in first aid
The salary for the positions listed above ranges from $25,000.00 to $45,000.00 Engineering Department requires:
The rate for the above mentioned positions range from $6.25 to $12.00
•(Office) Administrator Requirements include but are not limited to: o Knowledgeable of parts and machinery o Ability to conduct inventory o Experience in assigning work orders o Physically fit
The Stewarding Department Requires: •Steward Requirements include but are not limited to: o Physically Fit o Ability to carry out labour intensive cleaning task
The rate for the position listed above is $8.00 to $9.50 an hour.
The rate for the position listed above is $6.25 an hour.
The Bar Department requires:
The Grounds Departments requires:
•Bartenders •Bar Porters Requirements include but are not limited to: o Ability to mix a variety of drinks alcoholic and non-alcoholic. o Outgoing personality o Ability to work in the sun o Physically fit
•Supervisor Requirements include but are not limited to: o Experience managing a grounds team o Knowledge of water/ Irrigation systems o Physically fit
The rate for the positions listed above is $6.25 an hour.
The rate for the position listed above is $7.50 to $9.50 an hour.
Security Department Requires:
The Spa Department Requires: •Lead Therapist •Spa Therapist Requirements include but are not limited to: o Certification in one or more of the following areas: Massage, Esthetics, Body treatments, Hair services, Tattoos and Nail services.
•Security Supervisor •Security Shift Leader •Security Officer Requirements include but are not limited to: o Supervise a team of officers (Supervisor and Shift Leader) o Responds rapidly to all incidents. o Ability to write reports. o Identify and eliminate risk. o Ability to work in the sun o Medically and Physically fit o At least 2 years relevant experience
Remuneration: $6.25 per hour plus commission The Loyalty and Travel Department Requires: •Loyalty and Travel Consultant Requirements include but are not limited to: o Knowledge of rooms and categories o Ability to up sell o Ability to meet sales target o Manage the loyalty portfolio
The rate for the positions listed above is $6.25 to $10.00 an hour. Rooms Division Department Requires: •Butler Requirements include but are not limited to: o Holder of a recognized Butler Certification o Minimum 2 years’ experience as Butler
The rate for the position listed above is $7.00 per hour plus commission Photoshop Department requires: •Supervisor Requirements include but are not limited to: o Experience supervising Staff located in two retail outlets o Photography experience o Experience making quotas and targets
The rate for the position listed above is $6.25 an hour. Housekeeping Department requires: •Housekeeping Supervisor Requirements include but are not limited to: o Supervises and may participate in housekeeping services including cleaning, mopping, scrubbing, sanitizing the floors and other surfaces as well as the refinishing, waxing and polishing of floors, tile work and other various floor and wall surfaces in stairways, hallways, restrooms, offices, laboratories, recreation and locker rooms.
The rate for the position listed above is $7.00 to $10.00 an hour.
The rate for the position listed above is $7.25 to $8.50 an hour.
Applications giving full details of qualifications and experience should be sent to:mmvaughn@grp.sandals.com or Fax to: 941-4870 Attn: M McClean-Vaughn The Human Resources Department Beaches Turks and Caicos P.O. Box 186 Lower Bight Road
and
The Labour Commissioner Labour Department Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands
and should reach not later than October 5th 2015
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
INTERCARIBBEAN AIRWAYS IS SEEKING:
JOB ADVERTISEMENT
A new and dynamic printing business is looking for qualified and skilled persons to join their team.
Vacancy: PRINTING MACHINE OPERATOR Summary
This is a technical position which requires the individual to be responsible for operating and tending printing presses and a wide range of machines within the print shop. Knowledge of how to operate wide format printers, t-shirt machines, paper cutter, folders and drills is a necessity.
Reports to:
The General Manager
Key Objectives:
The successful candidate will be a team player with ability to work largely unsupervised, therefore requiring leadership qualities, initiative and requisite knowledge
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
TWO AIRLINE EXECUTIVE • 10-15 years related experience in Commercial flight operations. •Must have a demonstrated knowledge of weight & balance, flight planning and ETOPS operations. •Knowledge of the practices and procedures of all airside and landside activities and functions as outlined in Ground Flight Operations Manual and Regulations. •Competency in PC Windows, Email, Databases and Microsoft Office tools is expected. •Ability to develop and train workforce, build relationships, utilize skills in the workforce that is most appropriate. •Ability to execute functional aspects relating to domestic travel transactions and maintain records and documentation. • Ability to operate all equipment relating to the job. • Ability to communicate in a clear, concise, understanding manner, and listen attentively to others, understands material, and provides instruction to employees. Schedule the appropriate staff compliment to ensure the smooth and effective operation of shift. •Coordinate with authorities in all International/Domestic Stations, Security measures affecting aircrafts, passengers, luggage and goods. •Manage local and International carriers contracts.
Primary responsibilities •Operate printing machines from wide format printers to T-shirt printing machines, paper folders, drills and cutters. •Run several imaging devices with different size and media capacities. •Daily prepare equipment for the days use. •Daily clean print heads and clear lines as needed on digital equipment. •Ensure that paper and ink meet specifications •Search for and correct problems. •Always verify first image is correct and on the correct media •Inspect product continuously for quality and consistency. •Perform preventive maintenance. •Perform digital, electrostatic, and ink-jet printing. •Transfer files, select proper color profile, and proof images electronically using digital presses. •Any other duties that may be assigned.
(3) RAMP ATTENDANT •Over 5 years experience in Ramp Supervising. • Over 5 years experience in maneuvering heavy duty equipment e.g. (pushing and towing aircraft). • Experience in general handling of General Aviation. Narrow body and wide body aircraft. •British Airways, JAR OPS, Supervisor Aircraft loading qualified. •US Airways fleet service door opening trainer. •Awareness Certification of acceptance/refusal of hazardous material as per IATA regulations. •Comprehensive knowledge in the operation of all Ground Service Equipment (GSE).
Knowledge, Skills and Experience •Candidate must be a team player •Must be fluent in the English language •Must have customer service skills •Must have exceptional time management and organizational skills •Must pay keen attention to details •Knowledge of graphic design software such as Adobe photoshop, Illustrator, Corel or In Design is a plus
Salary commensurate with experience. All positions require the following: ➢ Excellent command of the English language – reading, writing and speaking. ➢ Good communication skills and team player ➢ Detail oriented & organized individual ➢ Ability to work shifts, early mornings, late nights, weekends and Holidays. ➢ Clean police record ➢ Able to work under pressure
Salary payable: Salary based on experience and qualifications. Please email resumes to info@onislandprinting.com no later than September 25, 2015
The BLUE HAVEN MARINA is inviting applications for the following position:
Marina Sales and Marketing Manager The Marina Sales and Marketing Manager should demonstrate the ability to work with minimal supervision, must work well under pressure and be self-motivated. SUMMARY OF REQUIREMENTS: •Extensive knowledge of Marina Sales and marketing in tourism background highly advantageous. •Prior pre-sales or/and post-sales experience needed. •Degree level education, preferably in Hospitality Management or related subject. •Experience selling products, data, training or technical services. •Experience in event and boating photography •Foreign language, especially Spanish/French (spoken/ written) is preferred. •Broad understanding of the marina and boating fields. •Dynamic, self-motivated, individual with a drive to succeed in sales and marketing. •Excellent interpersonal skills as you will liaise with multicultural clients and colleagues. •Business acumen with an ambition to further develop sales/marketing skills. •Excellent networking experience/capability. •Ability to create publications, direct and proof promotions and ads for the tourist and business community •Ability to coordinate and manage marina’s sales website •Applicant must be in possession of a Boating license •RYA certification is preferred Salary for this position will commensurate with qualifications and experience. Please Submit Applications to: hr@bluehaventci.com A copy should also be submitted to the TCI Labour Department. Submissions to be no later than September 25th, 2015 Belongers need only apply.
Belongers need only apply.
Interested person should apply to HR@intercaribbean.com or via fax to HR Department 649-946-4040. No phone call please. Qualified candidates will be contacted for interview.
RBC ROYAL BANK (BAHAMAS) LIMITED is presently considering applications for: Relationship Manager – Business Banking Turks & Caicos Islands
The successful candidate should possess the following qualifications:
•3 or more years banking experience •ABIFS/AICB Diploma or a degree in banking or a related field would be an asset •Previous experience as a Lending Officer is mandatory
Required Skills
•Negotiating/Selling Skills •Problem Account Management •Knowledge of Financial Analysis and risk assessment •Critical Thinking •Time Management •Relationship building/Planning/Organizing/Closing Sales •Effectively manage risk •Impact and Influence •Ability to manage multiple priorities •Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills •Microsoft Office Proficiency (Outlook, Word, Excel)
Responsibilities Include:
•Responsible for retaining and growing relationships with Business Banking (BB) clients, contributing to the strategic priorities of Sales Volume and Revenue Growth and improving the Client Experience. •Responsible for the on boarding of products and services for existing and new clients, identifying, referring and fulfilling on new opportunities as appropriate, promoting collaboration amongst Business Banking relationship team and partners. •Providing direct support to Business Banking clients with all lending and non-lending activities. •Developing a strong knowledge of client’s operational requirements in order to provide financial solutions (primarily Cash Management and Deposit Solutions) that add value to the customer’s needs and goals, while driving revenue growth. •Providing credit and sales support for Relationship Manager (RM) to enable the identification, planning and delivery of solutions for client and prospect needs. •Effectively supports the RM with their assigned portfolio of accounts and participation in all aspects of portfolio credit management including, but not limited to, preparation of annual reviews at an acceptable level of risk and assisting with the compilation of documentations required in the origination/booking of deals. Responsibility and accountability for final sign off will rest with the RM with regard to the completion of BBTR/RAF. •Being the service champion for BB clients including coordination of the service team, focusing on ensuring the client experience in delivered effectively through appropriate service partners. •Acting as the Problem Resolution champion leveraging appropriate partners to resolve client concerns.
A competitive compensation package (base salary & bonus) will be commensurate with relevant experience and qualifications. Interested persons should apply by September 19, 2015 and follow the steps below: •Go to jobs.rbc.com • Type Turks in the search by location box • Then select Search Jobs • Select the role you wish to apply for
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
Blue Haven Resort Is inviting suitable applications for the following positions:
EXECUTIVE CHEF
Are you an outgoing, dynamic individual, passionate about great food and incredible hospitality? We are looking for an enthusiastic, motivated Executive Chef to join our team and make a real difference in our guest’s experience! This position is the perfect opportunity for a confident experienced individual with a great understanding of how to deliver fantastic hospitality and an unbelievable culinary experience! We are seeking a team player who is ready to go the extra mile on every occasion to delight and astound our guests, and someone who will always look for opportunities to improve our services.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
Candidate must demonstrate a proven track record of successfully leading/managing in an upscale Food & Beverage environment; with strong culinary experience and training. •Responsible for the execution of all company policies and procedures, ensuring that all services provided achieve the established standards within the agreed budgetary controls. •Advise the Corporate Executive Chef on all matters relating to the kitchen area and ensure a high standard of cleanliness and hygienic practice throughout the kitchen. •To assist the Corporate Executive Chef in budgeting i.e food cost/payroll/etc. •Ensure guest satisfaction with the smooth and effective running of the day-to-day operation. •Assist in training and development of Culinary staff members. •To maintain control of the standards for purchasing and receiving items. •To test and evaluate products for quality, paying particular attention to yield/holding qualities/market price/wastage usage of leftovers. •Constantly inspect all food service sections during service time to ensure that the correct standards are maintained. •Responsible for control of equipment and scheduling maintenance.
REQUIREMENTS:
•Minimum of 5 years of previous Food and Beverage international experience in a senior leadership role. •University/College degree •Computer literate in Microsoft Window applications required •Strong interpersonal and problem solving abilities •Developed proficiency with forecasting, cost controls and scheduling through related experience. •Dynamic, enthusiastic, creative leader who thrives under pressure and is able to perform multiple functions and troubleshoot when need. •Highly responsible & reliable with the ability to work well under pressure in fast paced environment. •Ability to work cohesively as part of a team •Ability to focus attention on guest needs, remaining calm and courteous at all times •The ability to stand and/or walk for a long periods of time, lift up to 40lbs and push/pull up to 50 lbs. •Must be able to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends and holidays.
FOOD & BEVERAGE SUPERVISORS SUMMARY:
Reporting to the Restaurant Manager, responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following:
RESPONSIBILITIES
•Consistently offer professional, friendly, hospitable service •Oversee restaurant operations ensuring compliance with departmental standards and meeting / exceeding guest expectations •Knowledgeable of all food and beverage products •Ensure proper staffing and scheduling in accordance to productivity guidelines •Communicate through pre-shift briefings, and departmental meetings all necessary information to support the operation •Train Team members in all job aspects – service, product knowledge and technical skills
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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•Cash handling and daily accounting •Capitalize on revenues by upselling and controlling expenses •Handle guest concerns in a timely and professional manner •Follow resort policies, procedures and service standards •Ensure compliance with all Health & Safety policies •Other duties as assigned
REQUIREMENTS
•Previous Food and Beverage Supervisory experience •Degree or Diploma in Hospitality Management •Excellent written and verbal communication, interpersonal and leadership skills •Fluency in English (1 additional language desirable) •Ability to work independently, multi task and prioritize responsibilities •Strong guest service orientation and training skills background •Ability to supervise a diverse staff compliment •POS experience – (IQ Ware desirable) •Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) •Basic First Aid •Physical Aspects: (include but are not limited to): •Constant standing and walking throughout shift •Lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. •Pushing, pulling, lifting
Salary for this position will commensurate with qualifications and experience.
RESTAURANT SERVERS - Reporting to the Restaurant Supervisor, responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following:
RESPONSIBILITIES •Prepares the tables, laying out napkins and utensils, making sure the condiments are refilled, performing all other preparation tasks. •Staying updated on current menu choices, specialties and menu deviations, knowing if the kitchen staff is running out of any items…etc. •Handle the table bookings, direct customers to their tables, presenting menus, suggesting dishes, assisting in drink selection, informing customers about food preparation details, communication specific customer needs to the cooks. •Understands and can communicate products and services available at the hotel. •Filling in for absent staff as needed. •Assisting with special events as needed. •Obtaining revenues, issuing receipts, accepting payments, returning the change. •Greet all guests warmly with an appropriate greeting. •Properly open and pour wine at the tableside. REQUIREMENTS •Ability to speak and hear •Frequent walking and some standing at times •Frequently lift/carries up to 25 lbs •Able to reach hands and arms in any direction and kneel and stoop repeatedly. •Fluency in English (1 additional language desirable) •Ability to work independently, multi task and prioritize responsibilities •POS experience – (IQ Ware desirable)
Salaries for these positions will commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Please Submit Applications to: hr@bluehaventci.com A copy should also be submitted to the TCI Labour Department. Submissions to be no later than October 2nd, 2015 Belongers need only apply.
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
A Deckhand to work and live aboard a boat at sea at least 6 days a week, salary of $6.00 per hour.
Call 241 7278
SALES MANAGER
CRUST BAKERY SEEKING
One Painter to work 6 days per week, monday saturday, $7.00 per hour.
CRUST BAKERY SEEKING
NEEDED
Seeks 1 Kitchen Helper Salary $6.50 per hour Contact olabsi@tciway.tc
SEEKS 1 PASTRY SUPERVISOR MUST HAVE AT LEAST 5 YEARS EXPERIENCE SALARY NEGOTIABLE CONTACT 331-0221
PALMS VENTURES
SEEKS 1 Labourer Salary negotiable Contact 331-0221
HYNETTA FROBES SEEKS 1 DOMESTIC WORKER
Salary $6.50 per hour 6 days per week Contact 243-4272
MRS CARBONAY
SALAO Is in need of 1 Babysitter Salary $7.00 per hour Applicant must be honest, reliable & hardworking also fluent in Tagalog & English
Contact 311-2801
KENVA WILLIAM ONE LABOURER 5 DAYS A WEEK SALARY: $6.50 PER HOUR EMAIL: CHICKTER@GMAIL.COM
WANTED 1 Labourer
Salary $200 per week 6 days per week Contact Marie Pierre at 344-9938
EVANS HARVEY
KADEEN AGENCY On behalf of its client is looking for a BUTLER the person should have a good knowledge of the duties this position requires and must be able to supervise and plan for dinner parties etc. without supervision. Salary $8.50 per hour Contact 231-6565
One Storeroom Cleaner to work 5 days a week, Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm, salary $6.00 per hour.
Oyster House
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
requirement -4years experience in sales and Marketing, must possessexcellent communication skills, able to handle multiple request andcustomers, able to deliver goods and stock customers shelves, technical skills required, valid drivers license, knowledge of inventory procedures and typing. Salary is based on commission. Email resume to msimmons@tciway.tc before October 6, 2015.
A Baker 6 days a week Salary: Negotiated Tel. 331-0221 1 MANAGER MUST BE FLEXIBLE MUST BE EXPERIENCE IN MAKING MENU AND ORGANIZING STAFF SALARY: NEGOTIATED TEL. 331-0221
LAPELS TCI DRY CLEANERS
SEEKS Car Wash Attendant Salary based on experience Contact 941-4663 or lapelstci@tciway.tc
SEEKS 1 HANDYMAN Salary based on experience Contact 231-0978 Email: lapelstci@tciway.tc
Shay Café
HELP WANTED
Part-time Housekeeping experience necessary Salary $10 – 12 per hour Email: tcivacations1@yahoo.com Call 649-245-0159 or 561-929-8816(USA)
Oyster House
Seeks
1 Chef
Must be able to create new menus Salary negotiable Interested persons should contact 432-0221
DAVIN WALKIN
RODEMIDE JOSEPH
ur ho r k pe ee 6 00 er w -271 . $6 p 31 ry ays ct 3 a l d Sa 5 onta C
Seeks 1 TECHNICIAN Must have at least 10 years experience Must be flexible Salary negotiable Interested person should contact 432-0221
SAVOR LTD SEEKS
LAPELS SUPER SUDS AUTO SPA
Seeks 1 Babysitter
Olbasi Ltd
For all your advertising needs Contact (649)-339-5879 or email: sun@suntci.com SPIKES VARIETY STORE
Is seek a
DOMESTIC WORKER
5 day a week Salary $150 per week Contact # 342-0280
TAYLOR’S VARIETY STORE SEEKS
8 DOMESTIC WORKERS Must work on holidays and weekends Salary $6.25 per hour
1 Domestic Worker 5 days a week Salary: $6.50 per hour Contact: (649) 231-6153
Seeks Assistant Manager Salary negotiable Must work weekends and on call Contact 432-0221
SEEKS 1 LABOURER Salary $6.25 per hour 5 days per week Contact 241-8748
2 SALES CLERKS Salary $6.50 per hour 4 LABOURERS Salary $6.25 per hour 1 Security Guard Salary $8.00 per hour Contact 649-232-1199
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2015 – SEPTEMBER 25TH, 2015
CARIBBEAN WORLD
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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CARIBBEAN NEWS
NEWS NEWS
Baha Mar Chapter 11 case thrown out
THE Delaware Bankruptcy was not convinced this would happen Court’s decision to throw out Baha Mar “in short order”. developer Sarkis Izmirlian’s Chapter The ruling read: “The Dismissal 11 bankruptcy case on Tuesday Motions are denied as to the chapter 11 has validated the government and case of Northshore Mainland Services, “disappointed” the Cable Beach resort. Inc and pursuant to Bankruptcy Code According to the Nassau Tribune, 305 (a), the Dismissal Motions are Prime Minister Perry Christie said granted, without prejudice as to the that the US ruling advances the Debtor’s remaining chapter 11 cases.” government’s objective and recognises Northshore is an American affiliate that the interest of the involved company of Baha Mar which does its Bahamian entities would be best business in the US. served in this country. In a statement, Mr Christie The effect of US Bankruptcy said: “The government welcomes Judge Kevin Carey’s ruling is to the decision today of the Delaware remove the last potential obstacle to Bankruptcy Court to dismiss the the Bahamian Supreme Court and its Chapter 11 proceedings against the joint provisional liquidators taking Bahamian Baha Mar entities. In so full control over the stalled $3.5bn doing, the Bankruptcy Court agreed mega-resort. And Baha Mar CEO that the future of the Baha Mar Sarkis Izmirlian is faced with a stark resort should be determined in the choice: either reach a deal with the proceedings in the Supreme Court of China Export Import Bank (CEXIM) the Bahamas, in which Justice Winder and China State Construction (CCA) has appointed provisional liquidators. and government on far less favourable “The government’s primary terms before the November 2 winding- objective is, and has always been, to up petition hearing in Supreme Court, see the resort completed, opened and or face losing his family’s $850-$900m operating as soon as possible. The equity. Delaware Bankruptcy Court’s decision Judge Carey said yesterday advances that objective and recognises that if he were convinced that denying that the interests of the Bahamian the dismissal motions would have the Baha Mar entities and their creditors effect desired by the debtors - bringing will be best served by the Bahamian CCA, CEXIM and the government proceedings and by negotiations. back to the bargaining table, he “The Government therefore might consider denying the dismissal invites all parties to join it in comotions. However, he said the operating with the provisional evidence did not reflect this and he liquidators to bring about a prompt
resolution of this matter in the interests of the Bahamian people.” However, Baha Mar maintained that the ruling would have no effect on its priority to ensure that the West Bay Street is property completed and opened as successfully as possible. It pledged to work with the Supreme Court-appointed provisional liquidators with a view to resolving the issues which have prevented the resort from opening without delay. “Baha Mar is disappointed that the motions by China State Construction and The Export-Import Bank of China to vacate Baha Mar’s Chapter 11 process have been granted by the US Court,” a statement from the resort read, “with the exception of the Chapter 11 case of Northshore Mainland Services. Accordingly, Baha Mar will explore its alternatives with respect to today’s Court decision. “With respect to the decision, we do note that the Court affirmed that it was appropriate for Baha Mar to file for Chapter 11 in the US Court and that the Chapter 11 filings were made in good faith. “In its ruling, the Court made clear that the Chapter 11 process ‘with
all stakeholders participating, under these circumstances, would be an ideal vehicle for the restructuring of this family of related companies with the ultimate goal of finishing a project said to be 97 per cent complete and, upon its exit from Chapter 11, to be in sound financial footing, with appropriate treatment of creditors’.” Baha Mar had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on June 29 after a series of opening dates had been missed. It had originally planned to open in December 2014 but postponed to the spring, when the resort blamed CCA for a further delay. Last night, Baha Mar Joint Provisional Liquidators declared that Delaware court’s dismissal of the resort’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing would not change their role. “Our role from the outset has been to protect and preserve Baha Mar’s assets and focus on bringing all parties to the table such that the resort can open,” said Edmund Rahming, Managing Director of KRyS Global, the Bahamas-based firm appointed with UK-based AlixPartners as joint provisional liquidators.
servant, was transferred from his post as headmaster of the South Rivers Methodist School to NEMO after he complained that Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves broke Ministry of Education protocol during a visit to the school, by not first reporting to the head teacher. Gonsalves is constituency representative for North Central Windward, where the school is located. Thomas said he was always confident that the Court of Appeal would have upheld the decision of the lower court. “I argued the case for Mr. Sam, I always believed in the righteousness of his case and I argued it and I argued it forcefully…” said Thomas, who became a senator in the Gonsalves government after accepting Sam’s case. “I was always convinced that we had a better case and a better argument and the law was with us. So I wasn’t in any way surprised that the
court ruled in our favour,” he said. Sam was suspended from the public service in August 2012, in the wake of a letter he wrote, which was published in two local newspapers, that was highly critical of the operations of NEMO. He was fired from the Public Service in May 2013, after the finding of a tribunal, and Thomas and Shirlan Barnwell is representing him in seeking judicial review of the appellate tribunal’s decision to uphold the decision of the tribunal. Asked about the implications of the Court of Appeal ruling on further actions that Sam may take against the government, Thomas noted the judicial review matter that is still before the court. “I think it is a matter that can be decided upon the facts, because, as you may know, judicial review matters,
the court tends to have disdain for legal arguments and cross examination of witnesses and the rule, the law on the matter is that there is only need for cross examination and for counsels making all kinds of argument, where, according to law, it’s a hard issue of fact. “It is our respectful submission in our papers before the court that there is no hard issue. We have simply argued that the tribunal that was established and the appellate tribunal had acted improperly and illegally in dismissing Mr. Sam, and, as a consequence, we are hoping that the court will make a decision on the papers. “It is our estimation that that matter, once it comes to court, the court will make a decision on it. We are also confident that it will also rule in the favour of Mr. Sam.”
Aerial Overview of the 400 hectares of Baha Mar,
Court throws out government’s appeal in public servant transfer case
KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent – The Court of Appeal has dismissed the government’s appeal of a High Court ruling that the transfer of career educator Otto Sam from the classroom to the National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) in 2010 was “irrational and illegal”. Lawyer Jomo Thomas, whose chambers represented Sam in the matter, confirmed the High Court decision late Tuesday, hours after it was handed down in Grenada. “I have not yet read the judgement. What I do know, the court dismissed the appeal of the respondent and ordered EC$2500 in cost,” Thomas said. High Court judge Justice Gertel Thom ruled in February 2014 that the transfer of Sam was irrational and illegal. Sam, an outspoken public
Man convicted of murdering drug dealer
HAMILTON, Bermuda – A 20-year-old man has been convicted by a Supreme Court jury of the cold-blooded murder of a self-confessed drug dealer and gang member. A second man was acquitted. Jaquii Pearman DeSilva was found guilty by a majority verdict of killing 29-year-old Prince Edness, who died in a hail of bullets near a sports club in Southampton last December. The court was told that Edness was shot by a pillion passenger on a
motorcycle. The court was also told that two men on the motorcycle opened fire on police as they tried to make their escape. Edness’ murder came two weeks after he had been cleared by a Supreme Court jury of the premeditated murder of 18-year-old Jason Lightbourne in Paget in 2006. Late Tuesday, the jury convicted DeSilva of murdering Edness, as well as two counts of using a firearm to commit
an indictable offence, possession of a prohibited weapon and possession of ammunition. He was remanded in custody to await sentence. Another man , Joshua Usher, 22 was acquitted during the trial . Prosecutors claimed that Usher, who was the motorcycle rider, was cleared of any involvement in the crime and discharged on the instruction of Puisne Judge Carlisle Greaves.
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CARIBBEAN NEWS
Venezuelan president visits Dominica and offers 300 houses
ROSEAU, Dominica – Charles airport, adding “we have been advised by LIAT that they will resume Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is due to visit storm ravaged Dominica flights into Dominica …on Wednesday”. “Again these are things we this weekend as the Spanish-speaking have been advised on, they may country announced it would provide change but LIAT has advised us and at least 300 houses to the government here. we look forward to those new schedules “We have accepted that offer to be posted,” he said in the radio and television broadcast. and the Venezuelans brought in..one of Skerrit told citizens that such structures to be erected because “progress is being made, it will take we expect the President of Venezuela to a long time but we are seeking to come to Dominica on Saturday where we will have the symbolic handing over prioritise areas and to see how of this one home and of course making quickly the government can move into a pronouncement on the 300 homes,” temporary structures, while at the same time planning for more permanent Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said structures and arrangements in Tuesday. The island had been battered respect to our response to Tropical Storm Erika”. by Tropical Storm Erika on August 27 that left more than 30 people dead Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Meanwhile, Taiwan is providing US$100,000 to Dominica and damages estimated at more than EC$600 million (One EC dollar = “within the next couple weeks and the even though the island does not enjoy US$0.37 cents). Officials have also said Ministry of Housing will advise the diplomatic relations with Roseau. The Asian country Monday that more than 20 people, including two Cabinet as to how we go about erecting foreigners, are missing and presumed those homes”. presented the funds to the Director dead. Skerrit said the technical General of the St. Lucia-based Skerrit, giving an update on team from the regional airline LIAT, Organisation of Eastern Caribbean the relief assistance to the island, said had arrived here on Tuesday to set up States (OECS) Dr. Didicus Jules. Taiwan has formal diplomatic he expects the first 50 homes to be here the computer system at the Douglas
Racist comments in Trinidad after election result
Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – Political and religious leaders Monday condemned what they termed racial comments posted on the social media after the People’s National Movement (PNM) came to power following the September 7 general election. Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley has already told reporters that he had not seen the comments, but added that he had ore important things to discuss, including the delivery of a national budget before month end. Former prime minister Kamla Persad Bissessar said the comments posted on the Facebook page of the United National Congress (UNC) were not authorised, would never be authorised nor condoned by her party. “I haven’t seen these posts but I can say that they would never be authorised by the party,” Persad Bissessar said. The comments range from congratulations to the PNM to threats to harm Rowley who they described as
Former Trinidad Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar a monkey. “Let us all work Leader of the Congress together to put an end to this,” of the People (COP) and former he said. legal affairs minister Prakash Imam Mirza AliRamadhar noted that some Mohammed, of the Islamic people on both sides of the Da’wah Movement, speaking political divide have been on television, said it was issuing messages which were “frightening” that after so not in the best interest of the many years of education and country. awareness, racism seems to “This is not acceptable have gotten worse. in a truly democratic and “It is frightening, united society that is multi- especially for our young people. ethnic and multi-cultural. The examples being set by We cannot allow any space, these adults who are involved whether by individuals or in these things, it really is groups, for such divisive and scary,” he added. hateful messages to be spread Seventh-Day Adventist in our national conversation Pastor Clive Dottin said he and thinking, whether it is agreed with chairman of the fuelled by sentiments based Elections and Boundaries on winning or losing in our Commission (EBC), Norbert elections,” he said. Masson, who described the “While we should seek campaigning as the most vile to understand why things and vitriolic he has ever seen. turned out as they have, we “We are as polarised as cannot let it stand in the way of we have ever been. We are misour common future,” Ramadhar mentoring the young people. said, adding that regardless of We are misguiding them and who is in power, the country setting a horrible example,” he must not allow the bitterness said, urging religious leaders to that is evident among a few set “the right example and are to infect the youth and future also fuelling a certain kind of generations. hatred in the society”.
relations with three OECS member states, namely St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Kitts Nevis and St. Lucia, while Dominica enjoys relations with China. “I think it’s very important that when we face a catastrophe that responses be made on a humanitarian basis regardless of whether the diplomatic links exist or not. We are particularly pleased with this contribution,” Taiwanese Ambassador James Chang said. “Taiwan has been an active participant in aid for international disasters and we will continue to fulfil this role as a provider of humanitarian aid,” he added. Jules said that in situations of disaster, the requisite cash infusion to get things done on the ground is important. “Quite often in these disasters a substantial cash infusion is necessary to attempt to solve the immediate things that need to be attended to and to ensure that the economic impact of the disaster is mediated. So we are very grateful,” Jules said.
Study finds high number of Bahamians contemplate suicide NASSAU, The Bahamas – A recent study of suicide in The Bahamas shows that many people residing here have considered taking their own lives. Acting Managing Director of the Public Hospitals Authority (PHA), Mrs. Hannah Gray, said the study also indicated that young males were seven times more likely to commit suicide than women in the same age-group. The study was conducted noted Bahamian psychiatrist, Dr. David Allen. “This startling reality should underscore the importance of effectively educating and equipping key persons in the public service, healthcare systems, schools, law enforcement and our communities and neighbourhoods to deal with suicide and attempted suicide,” Gray told a symposium on Suicide Prevention. Bahamas Thursday joined the international community in observing Suicide Day and while Gray did not disclose exact figure, she said that “the symposium was “an essential public health education tool” that will empower persons who have direct contact with those persons at-risk for self-harm. “It will provide the skills necessary to recognize those who may be vulnerable to suicide and attempted suicide and to intervene and refer those in crisis for appropriate support and specialist services,” she added. Gray said the symposium, hosted by the Ministry of Health, the Public Hospitals Authority, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), and Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre, was one of a number of initiatives by the government as it continues to address suicide prevention and reduction. Mental health officials say shame, which is fueled by stigma and negative misconceptions of individuals who suffer from psychiatric or psychological disorders, is a barrier to treatment “for far too many people who may otherwise benefit from mental health services”. Health Minister Dr. Michael Perry Gomez said. “by definition, suicide is a preventable cause of death and social scientists, mental health professionals, religious organizations and concerned citizens are committed to research, interventions and treatment which will decrease incidents of suicide and attempted suicide”.
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Deportation of Haitians must stop, says UN official Port-au-Prince The Dominican Republic must stop deporting undocumented people of Haitian descent until a bilateral agreement is reached, a UN human rights envoy said Tuesday. The migration crisis stems from a Dominican court ruling in 2013 that children born in the country of undocumented foreigners do not have Dominican citizenship. Overnight, more than 250,000 people -- mostly those born of Haitian parents -- became stateless. “We need a policy to create the necessary conditions for these people’s rights to be respected,” said Gustavo Gallon, the UN independent expert on the situation of human rights in Haiti. Haiti and the Dominican Republic to its east share the mountainous island of Hispaniola. Under international pressure,
Santo Domingo established a process by which some 50,000 of the Haitian immigrants would be allowed to stay, but the majority have been unable to finish the process in time due to documents that are slow to arrive from Haiti and Dominican registration offices that are overwhelmed by crowds. “I don’t know how these people are surviving. They have no water, no food and live in cardboard tents,” Gallon said after a visit to a camp of displaced people at Anse-aPitres. The camp has been crowded with 2,500 for a month now. There are only two latrines per 500 people. “This is a situation of desperate need,” Gallon said. For many Haitians, the treatment amounts to racism against black people by Dominicans, most of whom are of mixed heritage.
Caribbean achieves key Millennium Development Goals SANTIAGO – Two weeks before the 193 member-states of the United Nations approve the sustainable development agenda for 2030 in New York, the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) says Latin America and the Caribbean have achieved several key objectives of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). “Although these goals were formulated in a limited way, their results are the starting point to address new Sustainable Development Goals that will be more ambitious, comprehensive and universal,” said ECLAC in a new report, entitled “ Latin America and the Caribbean: looking ahead after the Millennium Development Goals”. From 1990 to 2015, ECLAC said countries in the region have made “important progress” on reducing extreme poverty, hunger and infant mortality, incorporating girls into education, and ensuring access to safe drinking water. But ECLAC urged them to “make greater efforts” to reduce maternal deaths and greenhouse gas emissions, among other indicators. “The new 2030 agenda represents an advancement versus the MDGs, moving to a more holistic, collaborative, interdisciplinary and universal view whereby development must be oriented towards closing structural gaps with environmental sustainability, to achieve greater equality,” said ECLAC’s Executive Secretary, Alicia Bárcena, about the report. ECLAC noted that the MDGs were approved in September 2000 by 189 United Nations memberstates, constituting the roadmap for development during the last 15 years. According to the report, the region achieved the first MDG, oriented towards eradicating extreme poverty and hunger, “since, between 1990 and 2015, it managed to more than halve the proportion of people whose income
is below one dollar.” The report says 4.6 percent of people lived with less than US$1.25 dollar per day in 2011, compared with 12.6 percent in 1990. The proportion of people suffering from hunger fell from 14.7 percent in the two-year period of 19901992 to a projected 5.5 percent in 20142016, the report says. Additionally, today’s figures for labor participation and unemployment are at their best levels in 20 years. Regarding the second MDG, devoted to achieving universal primary education, the report says the net enrollment rate at that level in Latin America and the Caribbean is estimated at 93 percent as of 2015. The level of illiteracy among people from 15 to 24 years of age in the entire region decreased to 1.7 percent in 2015 from 6.9 percent in 1990, “although functional illiteracy continues to be a matter of concern,” the report says. On the third MDG – promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment – the report says the region achieved the goal of guaranteeing girls’ access to primary, secondary and superior education, “although this has not translated into an equivalent improvement of their situation in the labor market, where they participate less and receive lower salaries than their male colleagues.” In the political sphere, the proportion of women in national parliaments grew to 27.4 percent in 2015, close to the threshold established for achieving that target (30 percent), the report says. Latin America and the Caribbean also achieved the fourth MDG, since it reduced by two- thirds the deaths of children under 5, the report says. Those deaths fell from 54 to 18 per 1,000 live births between 1990 and 2013, “although in that latter year there were still 196,000 deaths among children of this age group,” the report says.
Barbados’ Prime Minister Freundel Stuart and his St. Vincent counterpart, Ralph Gonsalves exchange documents following a signing ceremony at Government Headquarters.
Barbados and St Vincent sign fishing agreement BRIDGETOWN, Caribbean region and Barbados -- Barbados that both countries were and St Vincent and the committed to the pursuit Grenadines have signed of Caribbean integration, a treaty establishing based on a conviction a maritime boundary that a strong Caribbean between the two Community was countries. underpinned by strong Barbados Prime bilateral relationships, Minister Freundel which promote the social Stuart and prime and economic interest of minister of St Vincent their respective states and the Grenadines, and peoples. Ralph Gonsalves, “The treaty that affixed their signatures we are signing here to the treaty on Monday today is thus a palpable, afternoon in Bridgetown. tangible demonstration Stuart noted of that commitment that their signatures to closer regional on the document, which integration and closer established a maritime cooperation between our boundary based on two countries,” he added. equidistance between The prime the two countries, and minister also which is the first of its praised Barbados’ kind between Barbados ambassador to the and a member country Caribbean Community of the Organisation of (CARICOM), Robert the Eastern Caribbean “Bobby” Morris, who led States (OECS), marked the Barbados team in “a truly historic moment”. the negotiations, as well “The definition as the Commonwealth of the extent of a state’s Secretariat, which jurisdiction over its land provided technical and maritime space is advice. not a small matter. In “I know that fact, the ability of a boundary negotiations state to exercise this can be fraught with jurisdiction unimpeded difficulty and can is one of the very take years, sometimes defining characteristics decades. But our teams of sovereignty. were able to move To agree with forward on the basis of one’s neighbours exactly mutual trust and good where their jurisdiction faith with exemplary begins and yours ends alacrity. I am told there is thus a matter of the was but one negotiating highest import to the meeting in May of this proper conduct of the year, which has enabled business of the state,” he us to come today to this stated. signing ceremony,” the Stuart also prime minister noted. pointed out that The St Vincent St Vincent and the and the Grenadines Grenadines was one prime minister agreed of Barbados’ key that the treaty was strategic partners in the a testament to the
excellent relationship between the two countries. “It speaks to the excellent relations between our people. We are the closest neighbor to Barbados and we have never had any fight over where the boundaries are. Barbadian fishermen would come into our exclusive economic zone, some would even come into the territorial sea and Vincentian fishermen would have done the same thing,” he stressed. Gonsalves further explained that the agreement would have a number of practical consequences for his country, one of which was geothermal exploration. According to him, Reykjavik Geothermal Ltd and Emera Power, the owners of Barbados Light and Power, were involved in the development of geothermal energy in his country. “We have more than one geothermal resource and we are currently engaged in the development of one geothermal area which has 60 megawatts of power... so just think of it, if at some point we can sell energy to Barbados, we would have to traverse not only our exclusive zone but that of Barbados,” Gonsalves said. Barbados will also have an opportunity to exploit the living and non-living resources in its national waters.
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NEWS
Low-polling Republican candidates bash Trump in pre-debate gathering `SIMI VALLEY, Calif. - Lowpolling Republican presidential candidates attempted to cast doubt on lead rival Donald Trump on Wednesday, venting their frustrations at the state of the 2016 race by calling the billionaire a fake conservative with a checkered business past. Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal and former New York Governor George Pataki led the charge against Trump at a debate of four candidates who did not have enough strength in opinion polls to make it to a prime-time debate later. The so-called “undercard” debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library of four candidates immediately preceded the main event featuring Trump and 10 other Republicans who are doing the best in the polls. In their bid to stop Trump’s rise, a variety of Republican candidates have piled on the billionaire businessman as a politician who has supported Democratic priorities in the past, such as higher taxes. Jindal, one of Trump’s sharpest critics, quickly picked up on that theme.
“Let’s stop treating Donald Trump like a Republican,” Jindal said in response to a question about his criticism of the Republican frontrunner. “He’s not a conservative. He’s not a liberal. He’s not a Democrat. He’s not a Republican. He’s not an independent,” Jindal said. “He believes in Donald Trump.” Pataki was similarly biting in his criticism of Trump, whose unexpected rise in the polls has put pressure on the other 15 Republican candidates to respond. Pataki has vowed not to support Trump if he is the nominee for the November 2016 election but insisted he does not think Trump will get that far. “Donald Trump is not going to be the Republican nominee, period. I guarantee you that,” said Pataki. He said Trump’s experience in the casino business in Atlantic City, New Jersey, was instructive of the type of businessman he is. “Every one of those casinos went bankrupt, over 5,000 Americans lost their job,” Pataki said. “He didn’t lose anything. ... He will do for America
Deadly earthquake in Chile
Residents picked through knocked out power in the worst hit the rubble of destroyed buildings areas of central Chile, although in central Chile on Thursday after most buildings held up well. The a magnitude 8.3 earthquake killed quake was felt as far away as eight people and sent powerful Buenos Aires in Argentina. waves barreling into coastal areas, The port of Coquimbo forcing more than 1 million people suffered major damage, Interior from their homes. Minister Jorge Burgos told Violent aftershocks reporters. Chile’s navy said the continued shaking the South city was hit by waves of up to 4.5 American country on Thursday meters (15 feet). morning and locals said they President Michelle feared another big quake, although Bachelet said her government the government lifted its tsunami “learned a series of lessons” from warning. previous disasters and that she “Everything is a mess. It would travel to the worst affected was a disaster, a total loss. Bottles areas. It was the strongest quake in and glasses shattered and the the world this year and the biggest pipes in the bathroom and kitchen to hit Chile since 2010. burst,” said restaurant owner “We’re going to have go on Melisa Pinones in the city of Illapel, the ground to see that the damages near the epicenter of Wednesday’s are and see where help is needed,” quake. Bachelet said. In the coastal town Chile is the world’s top of Los Vilos, residents tried to copper producer and operations salvage belongings from dozens were suspended at two big copper of beachfront homes that were mines as a precaution, sending destroyed or severely damaged prices on the London Metal when the strong waves swept in. Exchange CMCU3 to two-month The government had highs in early Asian trading ordered evacuations from coastal on concern over disruptions to areas after the powerful quake hit, supplies. Prices later dipped again seeking to avoid a repeat of a quake after reports that were was no disaster in 2010 when authorities damage to mines. were slow to warn of a tsunami and State copper miner Codelco hundreds were killed. said it was keeping operations at The latest quake and the its Andina mine suspended, but heavy waves that followed caused it had restarted operations at its flooding in coastal towns and Ventanas smelter.
Republican U.S. presidential candidates (L-R) Dr. Ben Carson, businessman Donald Trump and former Florida Governor Jeb Bush talk before the start of the second official Republican presidential candidates debate of the 2016 U.S. presidential campaign at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, United States, September 16, 2015. what he did for Atlantic City and that reform than I was,” Santorum said. is not someone who we will nominate.” Responded Graham, “George Tempers flared as the W. Bush! Who won with Hispanics!” Santorum replied, “We need to candidates debated what to do about illegal immigration, Trump’s signature win fighting for Americans.” “Hispanics are Americans,” issue. Senator Lindsey Graham Graham said, getting applause. All four candidates declared of South Carolina, who has backed comprehensive immigration reform, Democratic President Barack Obama’s said it would be impractical to try to handling of Islamic State militants in Syria and Iraq as a disaster. deport 11 million illegal immigrants. He mocked former Senator Graham was insistent in Rick Santorum’s own failed attempt at saying the United States should raise an immigration plan when Santorum its troop level in Iraq from 3,500 to 10,000 to more effectively take on was still in office in 2006. “It went nowhere,” Graham Islamic State, and called for sending American troops into Syria as part of told Santorum. The former senator from a regional army. He expressed concern Pennsylvania shot back: “You’re right, about the ability of militants to strike Lindsay, it went nowhere because we targets within the United States. had a president back then who was for “We’re in a war, folks,” he said. more comprehensive immigration
Syrian army starts using new weapons from Russia The Syrian military has recently started using new types of air and ground weapons supplied by Russia, a Syrian military source told Reuters on Thursday, underlining growing Russian support to Damascus that is alarming the United States. The source described the weapons as highly accurate and effective. The army had started using them in recent weeks having been trained in their use in Syria in recent months, the source said. “New weapons are being delivered, and new types of weapons. The Syrian army is being trained in the use of these weapons. In fact, the army has started using some of these (weapon) types,” the source said in response to a question about Russian support. “The weapons are highly effective and very accurate, and hit targets precisely,” the source told Reuters. “We can say they are all types of weapons - be it air or ground.” The source declined to give further details about the weapons. Alongside Russia’s military supplies to the Syrian army, an ally since Soviet times, Moscow is expanding its own forces on the ground in Syria, where more than four years of war have killed an estimated 250,000 people. Facing a manpower problem in the army, the Syrian government has lost ground this year in the northwest, the southwest and the center of the country to an array of
groups including Islamic State and other insurgents battling to topple President Bashar al-Assad. U.S. officials said on Wednesday the United States had identified a small number of Russian helicopters at a Syrian airfield, the latest addition to what Washington believes is a significant Russian military buildup in the country. One of the officials said four helicopters had been identified, including helicopter gunships, although it was not clear when the Russian helicopters had arrived there. Russia has been sending about two military cargo flights a day to an air base at Latakia on the governmentcontrolled Syrian coast, U.S. officials say. Reuters has previously reported on U.S. assessments that Russia has sent about 200 naval infantry forces, battle tanks, artillery and other equipment to an airfield near Latakia. Thus far in the conflict, Iran and its Lebanese ally Hezbollah have been the main source of military support for Damascus. Hezbollah has deployed directly in combat, while Iran has mobilized militias and sent military advisers. Lebanese sources familiar with military and political developments in Syria have also previously told Reuters that Russians are taking part in military operations in the country. Syrian officials say the Russian military presence is restricted to experts.
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Terror threat in Britain at its highest level in more than three decades, say MI5 chief In the first ever interview by a serving MI5 chief, Andrew Parker, director general of the British security services, warned the terror threat level in Britain is at its highest for 32 years. In a wide-ranging interview with BBC Radio 4’s Today programme Mr Parker, 53, backed new powers to monitor communications and said social media companies have an ‘ethical responsibility’ to expose terrorists. There have been a number of high profile instances of terrorists using sites like Facebook and Twitter and encrypted messaging app Whatsapp to radicalise, recruit and plot their terror attacks. Mr Parker, who has been director general of MI5 since April 2013, said he wanted to do the live interview to ‘increase public understanding’ of MI5 and that the agency welcomed ‘clear legislation and oversight of what we do’. He also played down fears about extremists entering Europe among the stream of refugees from Syria, saying that was not a main focus efforts to protect the UK. Mr Parker Andrew Parker said
the internet and new technologies were posing new challenges to his agency and its ability to counter threats. But he told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme MI5 was not interested in ‘browsing through the private lives’ of the general public and it should work within a ‘transparent’ legal framework. He added that the police and security services needed to intervene to foil six terrorist plots over the past 12 months and the threat was ‘growing’. ‘That is the highest number I can recall in my 32-year career, certainly the highest number since 9/11,’ he said. ‘It represents a threat which is continuing to grow, largely because of the situation in Syria and how that affects our security.’ Mr Parker said the ‘shape’ of the threat was changing dramatically. He appeared on the show to discuss new legislation being considered by Parliament which would give the security services greater powers to monitor would-be terrorists online. Under the Draft Communications Data Bill - known
Director General of MI5 Andrew Parker (pictured) appeared in his first live interview to discuss new legislation being considered by Parliament which would give security services greater powers to monitor terrorists online as the ‘Snoopers’ Charter’ - currently being considered by the Government, along with sweeping new surveillance powers internet firms could be forced to hand over sensitive messages sent on apps and other encrypted services to MI5, MI6 and GCHQ. Home Secretary Theresa May’s
plans would bolster the capabilities of spies and police, but the legislation faces a battle from privacy and human rights campaigners who say such measures represent an assault on freedoms. Intelligence chiefs and Prime Minister David Cameron have argued for years that Britain needs to give the security agencies greater powers - but the plans have attracted widespread opposition, fuelled in part by revelations by Edward Snowden, who suggested American and British spies conduct the mass monitoring of communications. But speaking today Mr Parker was quick to say the powers would not be used to ‘monitor the lives of British citizens’ but instead would be used to keep an eye on those ‘who wish to harm us’. He said: ‘We need to be able to do in the modern age what we’ve always done through our history in being able to find and stop people and that means that we need to be able to monitor the communications of terrorists, spies and others and obtain data about their communications’.
Cops find 3500 knives, swords and blades in Florida woman’s home If she seemed on edge, it may have had something to do with all the swords and knives on her walls. Hernando County Sheriff ’s deputies paid a visit to the Brooksville, Florida, home of Nickole Dykema after her neighbor, Dorothy Clagg, complained that Dykema slashed her window screens and air conditioner with a large knife.
“She never wanted anyone to go in her house, and now I know why,” Clagg told WFTS. Investigators told WTSP that Dykema refused to let the deputies into her home, so they forced entry. There, they found more than 3,500 machetes, swords and knives hanging on her walls, along with Halloween props like rubber masks and fake body parts.
Police said Dykema took a machete and slashed at a deputy with it, narrowly missing his head. She then ran and hid under a blanket in another room, waving a long sword in front of her, according to WFLA. Dykema, who is on probation after being caught shoplifting knives from a Dollar Tree store in December, isn’t allowed to own weapons, WTSP reports. Police used a
bean bag gun and a stun gun jail. to subdue Dykema, then took “She had a habit of banging on the inside of her her into custody. “The person was house all the time on the obviously dangerous to the walls, and screaming and community,” Hernando hollering,” Clagg told WTSP. County Sheriff Al Nienhuis “I was just petrified all the said in a statement. “It time.” Dykema was held amazes me that these deputies were able to take without bond on charges her into custody without including probation violation, anyone being injured.” property damage, criminal Her neighbor, Dorothy Clagg, mischief, and assault on an says she’s glad Dykema is in officer.
More than 2000 enslaved fisherman rescued over past 6 months More than 2,000 fishermen have been rescued this year from brutal conditions at sea, their freedom prompted by an Associated Press investigation into seafood brought to the U.S. from a slave island in eastern Indonesia. Dozens of Burmese men in the bustling port town of Ambon were the latest to go home, some more than a decade after being trafficked onto Thai trawlers. Grabbing one another’s hands, the men walked together toward buses last week. As they pulled away for the airport, some of those still waiting their turn to go home cheered, throwing their arms in the air. “I’m sure my parents think I’m dead,” said Tin Lin Tun, 25, who lost contact with his family after a broker lured him to Thailand five years ago. Instead of working in construction, as promised, he was sold onto a fishing boat and taken to Indonesia. “I’m their only son. They’re going to cry so hard when they see me.” The reunion he envisions has played out hundreds of
times since March, after the AP tracked fish - caught by men who were savagely beaten and caged - to the supply chains of some of America’s biggest food sellers, such as Wal-Mart, Sysco and Kroger, and popular brands of canned pet food like Fancy Feast, Meow Mix and Iams. It can turn up as calamari at fine restaurants, as imitation crab in a sushi roll or as packages of frozen snapper relabeled with store brands that land on our dinner tables. The U.S. companies have all said they strongly condemn labor abuse and are taking steps to prevent it. In response, a multimillion-dollar ThaiIndonesian fishing business has been shut down, at least nine people have been arrested and two fishing cargo vessels have been seized. In the U.S., importers have demanded change, three class-action lawsuits are underway, new laws have been introduced and the Obama administration is pushing exporters to clean up their labor practices. The AP’s work was entered into
the congressional record for a hearing, and is scheduled to be brought up for discussion again later this month. The largest impact, by far, has been the rescue of some of the most desperate and isolated people in the world. More than 2,000 men from Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia and Laos have been identified or repatriated since the AP’s initial story ran, according to the International Organization for Migration and foreign ministries. The tally includes eight fishermen trafficked aboard a Thai cargo ship seized in neighboring Papua New Guinea. And those returnee figures don’t tell the whole story: Hundreds more have been quietly sent home by their companies, avoiding human trafficking allegations. “We’ve never seen a rescue on this scale before,” said Lisa Rende Taylor, an antitrafficking expert formerly with the United Nations who now heads the anti-slavery nonprofit Project Issara. “They deserve compensation and justice.”
Amazon selling six-packs of its $50 tablet computers SAN FRANCISCO – Holiday shopping could get interesting this year with Amazon’s announcement of a new 7” Fire tablet for $49.99. While not exactly a stocking-stuffer price, the Seattle company is also selling the tablets in a sixpack for just under $250, bringing them down to $41 each. The new tablets specifically go for what David Limp, a senior vice president for Amazon devices, calls its “sweet spot, the consumption of media.” More “tumble resistant” than before, the tablets feature a quad-core processor, front- and rearfacing cameras and up to 128 gigabytes of expandable storage The new tablets are available for pre-order on Thursday and will begin shipping on Sept. 30. While Apple has taken aim at the enterprise market with its new iPad Pro, Amazon sees its future in entertainment. On Thursday it is also introducing two new Fire HD tablets, one 8” and one 10.1”. Designed for entertainment, they’re just 7.7 millimeters thick and set to the aspect ratio of a widescreen movie. Each come with new speakers that are twice as powerful as before. The 8” tablet will sell for $149.99 and the 10” for $229.99. Both are available for preorder Thursday and will begin shipping Sept. 30, Amazon said. There’s also a new version of Amazon’s Fire Kids Edition. The 7” tablet comes with a kid-proof case and a two-year replacement guarantee, in case it turns out not to be kid-proof. It will retail for $99.99. With these new products, Amazon is also rolling out its latest operating system, Fire OS 5, code-named “Bellini.”
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Cuba seeks UN vote to end US embargo
Fidel Castro, now retired at age 89, holds the record for the longest speech at the United Nations, at 4-1/2 hours. Cuba on Wednesday launched its annual campaign for a United Nations resolution condemning the U.S. economic embargo while the White House and the Vatican added their own pressure on the U.S. Congress to end the 53-year-old sanctions. The Vatican has long opposed the Cold War-era embargo, saying ordinary Cubans suffer most from its effects, and Havana is counting on hearing that message when Pope Francis visits for three nights starting Saturday before continuing on to the United States. Although the pope is expected to note the Vatican’s opposition to the embargo during his U.S. trip he will not dwell on the issue so as not to be seen as interfering in U.S. politics and risk it backfiring, a Vatican official said. U.S. President Barack Obama, who nine months ago announced a historic rapprochement with the Communist-ruled island, did his own
campaigning against the embargo on Wednesday, asking an influential Washington business lobby to urge Congress to remove it. This year’s U.N. vote, set for Oct. 27, will be the 24th time Cuba has marshaled international support against the embargo but the first since Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro stunned the world last December by announcing they would seek to restore diplomatic ties and work to normalize relations. Pope Francis helped broker the deal. Cuba usually wins overwhelming support for its move, and this year there will be interest in how the United States votes given that Obama has called the embargo a failure, reversing a foreign policy tool of 10 previous U.S. presidents. Although Obama has taken steps to ease trade and travel restrictions, only the U.S. Congress can remove the embargo completely. The Republican majority leadership
Obama swipes at Donald Trump economic recovery since the 2008 stock market crash. “In the echo chamber that is presidential politics, everything is dark and everything is terrible,” he added. “They don’t seem to offer many solutions for the disasters that they perceive. But they’re quick to tell you who to blame. I’m here to say that US President Barack Obama there is nothing particularly patriotic President Barack Obama or American about talking down does not appear to be a fan of Donald America.” Obama did have some Trump’s presidential campaign slogan. At a Wednesday roundtable similarly vague praise for one aspect among business leaders, Obama took a of Trump’s campaign, however. The president wants to end the shot at the Republican front-runner by so-called “carried-interest loophole” in insisting America is already “great.” “Despite the perennial doom- the US tax code, which benefits private and-gloom that I guess is inevitably equity and hedge funds. He noted part of a presidential campaign, that former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush America is winning right now. America (R) recently proposed raising taxes is great right now,” Obama said. on carried interest, while Trump has Trump has based much of his lamented that hedge fund managers campaign around the slogan, “Make are “getting away with murder.” America Great Again.” “You’ve got two leading The real-estate mogul candidates on the Republican side who frequently wears various baseball hats have said that we should eliminate the bearing those words. He also peppers carried-interest loophole. Now, there’s almost every campaign speech with disagreement in this room around vows to make the country great again. that,” Obama told business leaders But Obama, speaking Wednesday. Wednesday, broadly panned the “But I will tell you,” he unnamed presidential candidates who continued, “that keeping this tax lament about the state of the country. loophole — which leads to folks who “You wouldn’t know any of this are doing very well paying lower rates if you were listening to the folks who than their secretaries — is not in are seeking this office that I occupy,” any demonstrable way improving our Obama said after praising the US’ economy.”
and some in Obama’s own Democratic first pope to address the U.S. Congress Party say it should remain in place as next Thursday. Two Vatican officials speaking long as the one-party state represses political opponents in Cuba and holds on conditions of anonymity said they a monopoly over the media. did not expect the embargo issue to Cuban Foreign Minister loom large during the trip, particularly Rodriguez told a news conference his not during his time in the United country “appreciates and recognizes” States. The pope does not want to Obama’s policy change on the embargo. But he also said Cuba would not make “rock the boat” at a delicate time, one of concessions to get the U.S. Congress the officials said. “He’s not going to hit Congress to lift it, saying “Cuba is not going to over the head about the embargo,” one make internal changes.” of the officials said. “That could backfire and our position on the embargo has HUGE MAJORITY SUPPORT always been clear.” After the pope’s visit, Castro For 23 previous years Cuba has won a nonbinding resolution with votes will follow Francis to New York to hear pitting most of the world against him speak at the United Nations. Castro himself will make his Washington and a handful of allies. For the past two years, 188 countries voted first speech at the United Nations in favor, with only the United States since becoming president. Castro, 84, took over from his ailing brother Fidel and Israel voting against. Cuba estimates the embargo provisionally in 2006 and definitively has caused $121 billion in damage to in 2008. He could also meet with its economy. Speaking to the Business Roundtable, a Washington lobbying Obama at the annual U.N. gathering group for corporate chief executives, of world leaders. Both are scheduled to Obama said lifting it would benefit U.S. speak on Sept. 28. “I imagine there will be companies. between the two “My biggest suggestion would interactions be for the BRT just to start having presidents, but I can say that no conversations on a bipartisan basis meeting between the two of them is on lifting the embargo. It doesn’t set,” Rodriguez said. Fidel Castro, now retired at necessarily have to happen or even should happen all in one fell swoop, age 89, holds the record for the longest but I think you look at the economic speech at the United Nations, at 4-1/2 opportunities that are provided, they hours. “We shall endeavor to be brief,” he told the U.N. General Assembly are significant,” he said. Francis travels from Cuba to in 1960, before launching into his Washington, where he will become the marathon address.
Metro Manila traffic costing Philippines $64 million a day MANILA, Philippines — fast-tract the completion of all these Metropolitan Manila’s notorious infrastructure projects because traffic jams are costing the the costs are immense even from a Philippine economy at least 3 strictly economic point of view,” he billion pesos ($64 million) a day and told a foreign correspondents’ forum. infrastructure projects need to be The government aims to fast-tracked to address the problem, spend at least 5 percent of GDP on the country’s chief economic planner infrastructure by next year. said Wednesday. Delays in infrastructure A study in 2012 by the and disaster reconstruction Japan International Cooperation projects, and natural hazards such Agency found that time lost by as typhoons and drought due to people stuck in traffic and the El Nino — a general warming of extra cost of operating vehicles in parts of the Pacific that changes gridlock in metropolitan Manila and weather worldwide — are among nearby areas amounted to 2.4 billion the domestic risks to the economy’s pesos ($51 million) a day, Economic growth. Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the economy is Balisacan said. expected to grow 6-6.5 percent this With a bigger population year, down from previous estimates, today and more vehicles on the but still among the fastest in the roads, and taking into consideration region. other costs including to the health of He said the El Nino commuters, Balisacan said 3 billion phenomenon affecting parts of the pesos is a conservative estimate. country is expected to last until early The cost over a year is 0.8 percent of next year and has been forecast gross domestic product. to be as intense as the El Nino in Government infrastructure 1997-1998 which cut agricultural spending has been delayed, with production by 24 percent. agencies underspending due to The government is difficulty in complying fast enough increasing rice imports and mapping with new requirements to make out intervention programs for public funding more transparent farmers who will be affected by the and corruption-free. Some of the drought. big ticket projects under the public- Agriculture comprises 10 to private partnership program have 11 percent of the Philippine economy also encountered bidding problems. and farm workers are 30 percent of “It makes sense really to the country’s labor force.
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Labour Party in UK elects far-left leader in British politics shake-up LONDON — A veteran nationalizing industry and wooed big economic crisis of 2008 to impose a anti-war campaigner known for business. terrible burden on the poorest people his unapologetically socialist views Corbyn’s blunt rejection of that of this country,” he said. “Poverty isn’t has won a landslide victory to lead strategy attracted scores of enthusiastic inevitable, things can — and they will Britain’s opposition Labour Party — an new members and supporters to the — change.” outcome that delighted supporters and party, earning him a rock-star welcome Earlier, as he arrived at the dismayed others who never imagined from many young people disillusioned conference venue, he was mobbed by he could be elected. with British politics. dozens of supporters who sang the The overwhelming support for But many senior leaders in socialist anthem, “The Red Flag.” far-left lawmaker Jeremy Corbyn, 66, the party have warned that Corbyn’s Corbyn’s unexpected surge of was one of the biggest shake-ups in socialist ideas will alienate moderate popularity against his three younger, British politics in decades. voters and make Labour candidates more mainstream rivals has already His win Saturday marks a unelectable — dooming the party to stirred months of vigorous, often bitter, sharp left turn for his party — and opposition status and ensuring that debate within the party about its will significantly challenge the tone the Conservatives stay in power for identity. of mainstream British politics, which years to come. But since Labour lost power in is now dominated by Prime Minister Blair, who led Labour to three 2010 — and suffered even worse losses David Cameron’s Conservatives. consecutive election victories, recently to the Conservatives in this year’s “It’s certainly the most high- said his party faced “annihilation” election — some activists have been profile position an overt socialist has under Corbyn. arguing that it was time to return to held in British politics since the 1980s,” But cheers and applause the party’s ideological roots. said Martin Wright, lecturer in history erupted in the London conference Unlike his younger rivals and politics at Cardiff University. “It’s venue Saturday as it was announced — Burnham, Yvette Cooper and Liz an absolute earthquake. For the last that Corbyn swept almost 60 percent of Kendall — Corbyn is seen as a stalwart two decades, the center ground has the vote, far ahead of his closest rival, from “Old Labour” who embraces been moving ever further to the right. Andy Burnham, who scored 19 percent. the socialist values that the party This moves the frames of reference to Some 422,664 votes were cast. advocated in the 1980s. He wants more the left and opens up an alternative.” The politician, who has been a public investment in infrastructure, Considered an eccentric lawmaker for 32 years but never held higher taxes for corporations and outsider and a longshot just months ago, government office, divides his own wealth redistribution. He also opposes Corbyn won many over with passionate party with his radical views even as it Britain’s membership in NATO, and arguments for nationalizing industry, struggles to recover from a heavy defeat wants to scrap Britain’s nuclear heavily taxing corporations and the in May’s national election. Within weapons program and scale back its rich, increasing spending and ending hours of his victory, several prominent defense spending. austerity. Supporters say Corbyn is Labour lawmakers announced they Rivals say he is inexperienced a refreshing voice in a party that has would not serve under Corbyn. and argue that his economic policies been moving toward the center ground In his acceptance speech, are idealistic and impractical — for far too long. Corbyn promised to bring about a more although dozens of British economists Under the last two Labour compassionate Britain and tackle have backed him. leaders in power, Tony Blair and Gordon “grotesque levels of inequality.” Unsurprisingly, his victory Brown, Labour shed its commitment to “The Tories have used the drew a wide range of reactions
Amazon’s Jeff Bezos ups his stake in billionaires space race Amazon founder Jeff Bezos unveiled plans on Tuesday to build a rocket manufacturing plant and launch site in Florida to better compete with fellow billionaires using their fortunes and tech prowess to open a new frontier in human space travel and exploration. Bezos’ space startup, Blue Origin, intends to invest more than $200 million to build the rocketmaking facility adjacent to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. The vehicles will blast off from a refurbished launch pad at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, located just south of NASA’s seaside spaceport. “As a kid, I was inspired by the giant Saturn 5 (Apollo moon) missions that roared to life from these shores. Today, we’re thrilled to be coming to the Sunshine State for a new era of exploration,” Bezos told an invitation-only crowd gathered at the company’s launch site. Bezos’ announcement comes at a pivotal time in the U.S. space industry, which is luring private investment and technological innovation in an attempt to lower the cost of space travel and improve safety. Blue Origin is competing against Elon Musk’s SpaceX and a handful of other startups backed by billionaire entrepreneurs, including Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen and Virgin Group Chief Executive Richard Branson. Like Branson’s Virgin Galactic, one of Blue Origin’s goals is to fly tourists into suborbital, and ultimately orbital, space. “For sure, this is an industry where people are competitive, but I think it’s also an industry where there is a lot of heart and people doing this for reasons of passion,” Bezos said. “If my only goal were to make money, I’d would just open a new kind of snack food company. It’s way more likely to work ... but I don’t want to do that,” he added.
Jeremy Corbyn Saturday. Union leader Dave Prentis said he “has ignited a spark of hope,” while the business group Institute of Directors said it believed Corbyn’s policies would “undermine our open and competitive economy.” Ed Miliband, who stepped down in May as the Labour leader, urged his party to unite in support of Corbyn. “Jeremy has won a very clear victory. I hope also ... that Jeremy reaches out to all parts of the party, because he has a big job to do to seek to unite the party,” he said.
New Australian prime minister flags more women in Cabinet
Malcolm Turnbull makes an address at Parliament after he was sworn in as prime minister in Canberra, Australia, Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2015. Turnbull was sworn in as Australia’s 29th prime minister after a surprise ballot of his conservative Liberal Party colleagues voted 54-44 on Monday night to replace Prime Minister Tony Abbott only two years after he was elected. CANBERRA, Australia — Australia’s new Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull on Wednesday flagged that more women would be included in his first Cabinet to be sworn in Monday. “There is no greater enthusiast than me for seeing more women in positions of power and influence in Parliament, in ministries right across the country,” Turnbull told reporters in his first news conference as
prime minister. “I am very committed to that, but I am not going to say any more about the new ministerial arrangements,” he said. Turnbull replaced his unpopular predecessor Tony Abbott in a surprise leadership vote of lawmakers in the ruling conservative Liberal Party on Monday night. Abbott was widely criticized for including only two
women in his 19-member Cabinet, Foreign Minister Julie Bishop and Health Minister Sussan Ley. Bishop was the only woman in Abbott’s first Cabinet sworn in in 2013. Turnbull said there would be “some changes” in his Cabinet, but gave no indication of the scale. He declined to comment on the future of the government’s chief economic minister, Treasurer Joe Hockey. In challenging Abbott’s leadership, Turnbull indirectly attacked Hockey with the criticism that “the government is not successful in providing the economic leadership that we need.” The government’s popularity plunged in opinion polls and never recovered after Hockey revealed his first annual budget in May last year. That budget was widely criticized as unfair toward the poor. Hockey revealed on Wednesday that he had had discussions about his future with Turnbull, suggesting he might accept another ministry. Turnbull said he had spoken to Abbott since his ouster, but did not know whether the former prime minister intended to stay in Parliament.
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Facebook is working on a dislike button
Sharp is Selling the Worlds First 8K TV for $133,000
Japanese electronics company Sharp is ‘like’ that post.” planning to release the world’s first commercially He added the dislike available 8K television in October and it can be interaction is “surprisingly complicated” to create, but yours for 16 million $133,000. 8K refers to the television’s resolution, Facebook thinks it will soon begin which is even sharper than 4K or ultra-high testing before a wider roll out. Questions came in via definition (ultra-HD). 8K delivers 16 times the Facebook posts, comments on a resolution of full-HD (high definition). Sharp says the TV will go on sale on October live-stream of the event, and an audience in Menlo Park, California. 30 and will be an 85-inch set. Although several companies have developed The CEO also discussed his company’s work with its “super hi-vision” resolution test models, this is the Oculus virtual reality platform, first such TV to be made commercially available. The 8K format provides 16 times as many saying that the experience is “not pixels as 1080p high definition. It creates an image only going to be things that are so detailed that it can appear three-dimensional. in the world, but you’ll be able Most companies are only just discussing to experience things that aren’t even possible to experience in the 4K. BT Sport, a U.K. bundle of television channels, world”—such as a zero-gravity broadcast a soccer match this year in 4K and has one Facebook co-founder and chief Mark Zuckerberg ultra-HD channel that shows matches occasionally. environment. Zuckerberg also weighed Netflix and Amazon both have a small amount of Facebook is working on a to express emotions other than “dislike” button for its posts. “like”—for some time because “we in on the question of artificial content in 4K. And earlier this month, Samsung unveiled The company’s co-founder don’t want to turn Facebook into a intelligence—a subject which and chief Mark Zuckerberg forum where people are voting up many prominent technologists its first ultra-HD Blu-ray player. At the same time, have warned could one day Samsung announced that its current “SUHD” brand revealed the ongoing tests during or down on people’s posts.” “That doesn’t seem like pose a threat to humanity. He of TVs would begin supporting high-dynamic-range a question and answer session on Tuesday. the kind of community that we said he was less fearful of the imaging (HDR) content. LG also unveiled a HDR “People have asked about want to create: You don’t want to consequences, especially given capable 4K TV -- seen as the near-term future in the ‘dislike’ button for many years, go through the process of sharing how many beneficial applications the industry Interest is expected to come mainly from and probably hundreds of people some moment that was important of AI are currently in development broadcasters and other companies involved in have asked about this, and today to you in your day and have (such as autonomous cars). “I think that it’s a little testing the format. is a special day because today is someone ‘downvote’ it,” he said, One analyst suggested it would not become the day that I actually get to say using the lingo of popular online dangerous to be too negative about the prospect of something a serious proposition for members of the public we are working on it, and are very forum Reddit. Instead, Zuckerberg said, long term when all signs point until the turn of the decade. close to shipping a test of it,” he “We’re not expecting 8K TVs targeted at the new feature will allow people to that over the next 10, 20, 30 said. it is—we’re consumers to be released until at least 2016, and The “dislike” button has to “express empathy” with their years—whatever been a subject of much discussion Facebook friends, explaining what going to unlock all this value and we don’t expect they will cross one million units over the years. many users of the social media help people’s lives so much by until after 2019,” said Abhi Mallick, from IHS The CEO said the platform already knew: “If you are developing this technology,” he Technology. “Japan’s NHK is the only broadcaster so far to company has been working on the sharing something that is sad... said. “So I’m an optimist.” announce plans to create and broadcast 8K content.” then it may not feel comfortable to feature—which would allow users But he added that the relatively small size of people’s homes in Japan might mean many families would not be interested. “Japan’s a region in which the average size Sony has slashed the price giant said in a of TVs sold tends to be smaller, and we think the of its PlayStation 4 games console statement on minimum size 8K TVs would be sold at would be by over 12 percent in its Japanese Tuesday that the 65in.” home market—and finally given a PS4 would now He added that for the time being, he name to its virtual reality gaming retail at 34,980 expected manufacturers to focus their efforts on headset. yen ($290) in trying to convince families to buy 4K sets instead. The headset will be called Japan, down They provide a quarter of the resolution of “PlayStation VR” and will be from 39,980 yen 8K, but are being made in sizes of up to about 100in available in the next few months. ($331). to create “cinema-like” experiences in the home. It was unveiled in 2014 and was The PS4 Due to technological restraints, owners of previously referred to as “Project price slash comes Sharp’s LV-85001 will have to use workarounds to Morpheus.” as traditional take advantage of its full capabilities. “The name ‘PlayStation console gaming Its built-in TV tuner cannot actually VR’ not only directly expresses faces stiff receive broadcasts in 8K. Instead, video has to be an entirely new experience from c o m p e t i t i o n fed in via four separate HDMI cables, which are PlayStation that allows players from mobile needed to handle the quantities of data involved. to feel as if they are physically games in Japan. The resulting image delivers 104 pixels per inside the virtual world of a Console software inch. game, but it also reflects our revenues in of the company’s most profitable That is about a fifth of the density of hopes that we want our users to Japan are seen at $4.4 billion businesses, amid a decline in the modern high-end smartphone displays, but is more feel a sense of familiarity as they this year, below mobile gaming smartphone unit. than enough to allow people to read relatively enjoy this amazing experience,” revenues at $6.2 billion, according Sony is not the only small-sized text or make out intricate details when Masayasu Ito, division president to market research firm Newzoo. games company having a tough standing close to the screen. of PlayStation Product Business, Sony’s PS4 is the leading time in Japan. Nintendo has While 8K content and 8K cameras are still said in a statement. console on the market and had struggled over the last couple of rare, the Japanese news site AV Watch, which was Sony said the PlayStation sold 20.2 million units as of years, but first to report Sharp’s TV, suggested the product VR would be available in the March 1, following its release is now making a strong push into could be used in hospitals to provide keyhole “coming months” but gave no in November 2013. Analysts at mobile gaming. But Sony said surgeons with better imagery details on pricing. The headset Daiwa Securities predict that the PS4 price cut was not due to But should you rush out and buy this is competing against the likes of Japan sales have reached roughly the challenging environment in future piece of tech? Probably not, as there is no 8K Facebook-owned Oculus Rift and 1.5 million units, below 10 percent Japan but down to the fact that it content to watch. the HTC Vive. of the total. had enhanced its lineup of games Japan’s public broadcaster is testing long PS4 price cut for holiday The PlayStation is a key in time for the the holiday season distance 8K television broadcasts, but isn’t aiming season. part of Sony CEO Kazuo Hirai’s and wants to get people using the to deploy it until the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. In addition, the electronics turnaround strategy as it is one PlayStation 3 model to upgrade.
Sony has FINALLY named its VR headset
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Airlines try to woo customers back to their own websites
Airlines are trying to draw and also at the expense of control of passengers away from low-price sales. comparison sites and back to their “Airlines are excited to get own home pages, seeking to boost their product on to the shelves,” Scott profits by selling them extra services Wilson, vice president of eCommerce such as additional legroom or access and merchandising for United to airport lounges. Continental Holdings Inc told Reuters. Airlines across Europe and “They just need to be displayed in the the United States are experimenting correct way.” with strategies to bring travellers “I can see a scenario in which back to their own websites. These United would not want to work range from improving the booking with partners that weren’t helping process to adding fees for tickets advance our corporate strategy,” he booked using third-party distributors, added, although United aims to be which themselves charge airlines for “agnostic” about where customers buy their services. its services. Many airlines see customising Ryanair is overhauling its travel packages with lounge access, website to offer its 100 million annual extra legroom or hotel stays and passengers flight price comparisons, restaurant bookings as the area cheap hotel rooms and location-based where revenue has greatest scope to restaurant discounts. grow. That model can conflict with CEO Michael O’Leary told comparison sites that market only Reuters last month that he wants rival base fares. airlines to share their prices on the German carrier Lufthansa low-cost carrier’s website, although gets just 10 percent of its revenues that idea has not yet been embraced from such ancillary sales and wants to by his competitors. grow that by an unspecified amount. “There is this level of trust Ryanair , which had led the way in whereby customers don’t believe that selling such add-ons, gets over 30 an airline will show them the best percent of its revenues from ancillaries. that (a rival) has got,” Gordon Wilson, Third party sites offer airlines CEO of distribution and technology access to a wider audience but for a fee company Travelport Worldwide Ltd
told Reuters. The U.S. Transportation The major airlines each Department is considering introducing spend hundreds of millions of dollars a rule to require airlines to disclose annually to distribute their fares via ancillary fees at all points of sale. global distribution systems (GDS), Airlines say they are provided by Amadeus IT Holding, among the world’s most transparent Sabre Corp and Travelport. industries when it comes to pricing, That allows fares to be easily despite differences among their compared by corporate travel bookers products and charging for services and directly by consumers. such as baggage and seat choice that Aiming to recoup costs, Lufthansa has complicate comparisons. introduced a 16 euro fee for bookings via GDS companies, a move which OLD HABITS those businesses and travel managers have criticised. Lufthansa says its It won’t be easy getting annual GDS costs are over 100 million customers back to individual airlines’ euros ($113 million) and that GDS websites though. costs are “several times higher” than Nearly half of travellers who other booking channels. book online use an online travel agent “We have seen such big such as Expedia Inc or metasearch differences in cost via the various sales sites like Priceline Group Inc’s Kayak channels and we’ve seen more and , or TripAdvisor Inc, according to the more demand from our passengers Travel Technology Association, their for more personalised services,” CEO Washington-based trade group. Carsten Spohr told Reuters in an “No matter how seamless a interview. website is, customers are used to using These latest moves in the aggregators... for house insurance, tug of war between airlines and fare motor insurance, mortgages, anything distributors have prompted some we start to look for, we price compare,” consumer advocates and travel said Marc Allsop, senior vice technology companies to warn that president and head of global business carriers are making it tough for development for loyalty analytics travellers to compare prices. company Aimia .
Apple ramps up its cybersecurity game
As profits sag, Hyundai seeks to regain edge with sports cars
On top of the many flashy features of Apple’s new iOS 9 devices, there’s another reason business owners might want to upgrade their electronic devices: To ramp up cybersecurity. Apple’s latest line, unveiled Wednesday, is expected to require a six-digit code, and sometimes a fingerprint, to access the features. That’s a step up from the four-digit code used on current models, and one expert said it could be motivation for enterprise customers to make the switch to Apple products. “This is a big deal, and honestly our friends at Apple are leading the way here,” Caleb Barlow, IBM security vice president, said Friday on CNBC’s “Squawk on the Street.” “It’s time to step it up a notch, both on our own devices and on what companies require for logins.” The added security means devices will be tougher for hackers to crack, Barlow said, with one million possible combinations versus the previous 10,000. The move comes as data breaches have been a growing concern for companies. Mid-size companies surveyed by PricewaterhouseCoopers detected 4,227 cyberattacks in 2014, up from 2,581 in 2013. A single data breach
reportedly costs U.S. companies more than $500,000 on average, the PwC report said. Despite the potential hazard, IBM’s research shows that nearly 90 percent of companies only require a simple, numeric pass code on mobile devices, with 80 percent of those companies requiring a fourdigit pass code, which in some cases can be cracked in under 20 minutes, Barlow said. For instance, many people bring their own mobile phones to use at work, which may have apps that aren’t vetted by the company. “Think about [data breaches] like a global pandemic,” Barlow said. “You would require physicians and hospitals out in the field to collaborate on where they are seeing infections. That is still not happening in the security industry. And it’s got to change.” A potential Apple advantage for business owners comes as the company makes a play at more enterprise customers, through a partnership with Cisco’s corporate cloud services, and a new iPad Pro, designed for corporate productivity. Barlow said he sees a movement within companies toward discussing cyber-risk as part of investments in technology.
Snapchat to sell message replays for 99 cents Would you pay to keep Snapchat images around a little longer? The messaging start-up hopes so. Snapchat, which allows users to send picture messages that disappear shortly after they are seen, started selling “replays” on Tuesday. Customers can pay $0.99 to play back three additional messages beyond the
complimentary daily in revenue this year, replay they already Re/code reported this receive. summer. The venture The feature capital darling raised gives the young company more than $1 billion in another tool as it looks just the first six months to open more sales of 2015, according to opportunities. Snapchat the site, and has spent launched its first revenue heavily to unlock growth. product last October The company and started selling ads also announced its feature on alongside its Discover “Lenses” content in January. Tuesday, which lets users Snapchat aims add effects to pictures of to rack up $50 million their faces.
The Hyundai N50 is presented during the media day at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, Germany September 15, 2015. South Korea’s Hyundai Motor Co, whose former growth was driven by valuefor-money vehicles, is developing sports cars in its latest attempt to spruce up its brand image while it tries to stem a slide in mainstream sales and profits. At the Frankfurt Motor Show on Tuesday, Hyundai presented concept and rally cars using technology from its new “N” subbrand - named for German race track Nurburgring and its own Namyang research and development center. The cars are meant to give a glimpse of features like new powertrains and slick handling devised in a high-performance push led by a 30-year veteran engineer hired away from Germany’s BMW AG . Emulating German rivals has become a feature of strategy at Hyundai, the world’s fifth-largest automaker by sales along
with affiliate Kia Motors high-performance car.” Corp, as firms like BMW H y u n d a i declined to and Volkswagen AG have officials grown in its backyard. disclose financial targets, pricing While its niche luxury investment, Genesis sedan is selling or strategy details for well, Hyundai has slid N sports car models. to six straight drops in But Biermann said he quarterly profit on weak expects Hyundai will sales of the mass-market start selling its first car sedans which fueled its under the sub-brand within two years, with a rise. “ H y u n d a i target audience that goes doesn’t stand for high- beyond a niche market. “We will perform performance car... not yet,” said Albert on the competitive level, Biermann, the 58-year- but we will try to make old former chief engineer these cars available for for BMW’s “M” sports the wider customer base,” Biermann, the car brand. Biermann said spoke in a recent group second-highest-ranking executive at interview at Hyundai’s foreign Namyang facility just Hyundai after design outside Seoul, where guru Schreyer. Analysts said Peter Schreyer, another German, holds sway as developing a reputable design chief for both high-performance brand will take Hyundai time. Hyundai and Kia. “This will BMW’s M and the AMG change,” said Biermann, line produced by Daimler who joined Hyundai AG’s DAIG.DE Mercedesin April to head up Benz have been around development of high- for decades. But they said performance models at Hyundai and the gambit is a positive Kia. “There’s a clear long-term move for the commitment and a plan automaker. to develop and sell a
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WORLD NEWS BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY
Massive passwords can bypass Android lock screen Smartphones running Android Lollipop can be unlocked by entering a very long password causing the lock screen to crash. The vulnerability, discovered by researchers at Texas University in Austin, potentially affects 21% of Android devices in use and requires the attacker to simply overload the lockscreen with text. The bug affects only those users with smartphones running Google’s Android Lollipop using a password to protect their devices. Pin or pattern unlock are not affected. The attacker need to enter enough text into the password field to overwhelm the lockscreen and cause it to crash, revealing the homescreen and giving full access to the device, whether encrypted or not. “By manipulating a sufficiently large string in the password field when the camera app is active an attacker is able to destabilise the lockscreen, causing it to crash to the home screen,”John Gordon from Texas university said. Google released a fix for the security hole on Wednesday for its line of Nexus devices, describing the bug as of “moderate” severity, but that it was not actively being exploited by attackers, according to the company’s knowledge. The researchers demonstrated the attack on a Google Nexus 4, and required the attacker to use the emergency call function to copy hundreds of characters to the clipboard. About 20% of the billion android devices across the world run Google’s latest version called Lollipop, including new devices from Samsung, LG and Sony. These devices will require a software update to fix the bug, but users will have to rely on the manufacturer of the smartphone and their mobile phone operator to roll out the update, rather than Google directly. The attack requires physical access to the smartphone, and cannot be performed remotely. Users worried by the attack can change their lockscreen preferences to a pattern unlock or Pin code, which can be up to 16 characters long, instead of a password.
Apple Delays Update to Watch Software
Apple Watch Apple Inc. said it is delaying the release of a much-anticipated software update for its smartwatch, after finding a bug during testing. Apple had planned to release watchOS2, the first major update to its Watch software, on Wednesday along with iOS 9—the latest version of its iPhone software. “We have discovered a bug in development of watchOS 2 that is taking a bit longer to fix than we expected. We will not release watchOS 2 today but will shortly,” an Apple spokeswoman said. She declined additional comment on the nature of the bug. The software delay for the Watch isn’t expected to affect iOS 9, also expected to be released Wednesday. The new software for the Watch is considered important because it will allow watch apps to run directly on the device. Currently, watch apps run on the iPhone and the information is relayed to the watch, causing performance lags. This was a cause of frustration for many developers. By improving the performance of the apps, Apple was hoping to entice more developers to create apps for the device, which started shipping in April.
Schools wasting money on computers for kids, says OECD Getting kids up to out tasks such as navigating scratch in traditional skills such around a webpage, scrolling as reading and math will better through a browser to access prepare them for the digital information and making a chart future than schools investing from data. in high-tech equipment such Singapore, South as computers, a report by the Korea, Hong Kong-China, Organization for Economic Co- Japan, Canada and Shanghaioperation Development (OECD) China were the top-performing claims. countries which the OECD The “Students, said “reflects closely” their Computers and Learning: performance in the 2012 printMaking The Connection” reading test that the organization report published Tuesday carried out. The OECD said that says that pupils in countries “many of the skills essential that have invested heavily in for online navigation can also information and communication be taught and learned using technologies (ICT) have shown standard, analog reading “no appreciable improvements” in techniques”. student achievement in reading, One of the reasons that mathematics or science. The technology in the classroom leads OECD also said that technology to poorer performance among in schools has done little to pupils is that it can be distracting, bridge the skills divide between the OECD said. In addition, advantaged and disadvantaged syllabuses have not become good students. enough to take make the most of “Put simply, ensuring the technologies available. that every child reaches a The OECD also baseline level of proficiency expressed concerns about in reading and mathematics plagiarism, saying that if seems to do more to create students copy and paste answers equal opportunities in a digital to questions, it is unlikely to help world than can be achieved by them become smarter. expanding or subsidizing access “If we want students to high-tech devices and services,” to become smarter than a the OECD said. smartphone, we need to think The OECD carried out a harder about the pedagogies digital skills test that required we are using to teach them. students in 31 countries to carry Technology can amplify great
teaching but great technology cannot replace poor teaching,” the OECD said. U n s u r p r i s i n g l y, organization also found that over-use of computers can be detrimental to a child’s education. “Students who use computers moderately at school tend to have somewhat better learning outcomes than students who use computers rarely. But students who use computers very frequently at school do much worse, even after accounting for social background and student demographics,” the OECD said. And students who spend more than six hours per day online outside of school are more likely to report that they feel lonely at school, arrive late or be truant, according to the report. Still, the organization is not discouraging the use of tech in the classroom, but wants policymakers to become more savvy about how it is used. Access to online, up-todate textbooks and specialized materials is one use case as well as “hands-on activities and cooperative learning”. “It is vital that teachers become active agents for change, not just in implementing technological innovations, but in designing them too,” the OECD concluded.
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A REWARDING CAREER WITH COMO HOTELS & RESORTS STARTS TODAY!! PARROT CAY BY COMO HAVE THE FOLLOWING VACANCIES Privates Estates/Owners Relations Manager
Main Objective
•Carry out all other instructions given by the General Manager.
The role is to manage and require strong operation managing the team, Private Knowledge, Skills and Abilities •Diplomacy and discretion are required in communicating with high profile Estate and Homeowners. Require to maintain the Private Homes, including guests and homeowners. project works. Homeowner satisfaction and maximum profitability will be your •Knowledge of project management practices, principles, techniques and major objective. tools. •Capability in basic home maintenance including pool & garden Duties and Responsibilities maintenance, electrical and plumbing. •Managing 11 Private Homes. •Management: Managing priorities, the ability to listen, stress •Managing Private Estate own team of housekeeping, landscaping, pool management, team motivation. maintenance and maintenance. •Reliability and stamina are essential. •Excellent numerical, verbal and written communication skills. Operations / Communication •Good interpersonal and customer service skills are vital. •Ensuring daily operation at the Private Estates is running smoothly. •Ability with figures and ability to manage a cost centre. •Involvement in the sales rental & marketing of Villas in the rental pool. •Sensibility to customers and able to deal face-to-face with guests. •Working closely with The Resort and Homeowners or their representatives •Ability to deliver training at all levels. and property managers in order to combine work on the houses with •Attention to detail: working carefully within the minimum time. maximum rental sales. •Team working. •Regular communication with the Homeowners and The Resort to ensure •The ability to take the initiative. all parties are informed of any work being done or issues within the homes •Good physical resilience. which could affect sales and rental. •Discretion: not disturbing guests. •Keeping track of Home Owners’ schedule of visit and liaise it with The Resort to ensure no conflicting reservations. Requirement / Experience •Keeping account of all expenditure related to the upkeep of the home •College degree in Hotel / Business Management or equivalent training/ including staffing and services, working within a budget to combine benefit work experience. of the Homeowner and the resort. •Bilingual in Italian, French and Spanish is a plus. •Ensuring that all daily operations in the homes are completed to the •Minimum of three years Management experience working in a luxury, 5 satisfaction of the General Manager & Director of the company. star properties. •Liaising closely with Estate Executive Housekeeper/Project Manager to •Must be proficient in hospitality revenue management, guest services and ensure all work is completed as efficiently as possible. team development. •Undertaking daily inspections of all Private Estate in the Parrot Cay rental •Experience in sales and marketing. pool and completing daily, weekly and monthly checklists for each property. •Willing to relocate to isolated Island. •Undertaking twice a week inspections of all Private Estate property on Parrot Cay – non rental pools and weekly report to the owner. Other Managerial Positions: •Managing total care maintenance of all building on the property associated •Training Manager with specific homes including, landscaping, pest control, pool & exterior •Asst. Chief Engineer services, interior and exterior furniture maintenance and cleanliness. •Director of Owners Assets •Preparing monthly billing statement and P&L for individual homes. •Director of Engineering •Proposing projects for the homes based on necessity and available budget. •Asst. Recreation Manager •Working closely with contractors and other outside vendors prior to and •Beach House Manager during and after projects. •Private Estate Manager •Supervising the Projects that requested by Homeowners and updating the Homeowners on the progress. •Maximizing relationship with Homeowners when they are both on and off island. Whilst on island, prioritize your time to ensure you are available for them at all times. •Ensuring all the needs for Homeowners are taken care of prior and during their visit, this will include and not limited to spa appointment, excursion reservation, groceries, pet import license, organizing special events on their behalf, etc. •Briefing the butlers assigned to Homeowners to ensure that each butler understands the Owners’ preferences and specific needs. •Keeping and checking inventory of Homeowners’ personal properties and ensuring safekeeping while they are off-island. •Preparing the arrival and departure of homeowners, their family member/ guest and pets, this will include and not limited to organizing for private transfer and picking them up at the airport to assist with custom clearance. •Being prepared to handle all special request and specific needs of all Homeowners and their guests. •Working closely with The Resort for group events i.e. wedding that take place at the Private Homes. •Adopt a flexible approach and demonstrate a “can do” attitude to those that you work with. Set an example that others can follow.
Finance & Planning
•Assisting in producing a budget for your department with the Financial Controller and General Manager. •Implementing and suggesting systems that maximize the revenue from rentals and minimize costs in order to control and meet your budget •Generating financial and achievement reports as required by management. •Implementation of daily, weekly and monthly projects to maintain equipment, cleanliness and standards. Planning should include phased maintenance projects over the summer months when rentals are at their lowest levels.
OTHER POSITIONS HAVAC Technician K9 Dog Handler Butler Turndown Housekeeping Attendant F&B Server Duty Manager Resort Butler Guest Services Supervisor Head Baker Reverse Osmosis Plant Operator Duty Manager Chef de partie Accountant Private Estate Attendant
Yoga/Pilates Instructor Housekeeping Supervisor Commis Chef Seamstress Health & Safety Manager (Island Nurse) Private Estates Housekeeping Supervisor Laundry/ Kitchen Tech Spa Receptionist Spa Attendant Spa Therapist Restaurant Manager Wood Carver
Salary for this position will be paid base on qualification and experience. Please note that all application must be submitted with a valid Police Record, two reference letters from previous employers or a notary public and current educational certificates. Must be willing to relocate.
Only suitable candidates will be contacted for an interview. Forward your resume to the Human Resources Department at the following address: Parrot Cay Resort and COMO Shambhala P.O. Box 164 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Ph: (649) 946 7788, Fax: (649) 946 7749 Email: careers.parrotcay@comohotels.com
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WORLD
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SPORTS Michael Jordan made more money last year than in his entire NBA career, combined
Michael Jordan Almost 17 years after Michael Jordan played for the Chicago Bulls for a thenNBA record $33.1 million in 1997-1998, that mark still stands at the highest singleseason salary in NBA history, with only Kobe Bryant ever breaking the $30 million barrier and last season’s highest-paid player (also Kobe) barely coming within $10 million of MJ’s salary from nearly two decades before. So that’s what makes the following fact so unbelievable: Michael Jordan made more money in 2014 than he did in his entire NBA career, combined. PBS’ Newshour did an in-depth investigation into the economics behind modern sneaker culture and developed a very long and in-depth infographic on the industry. Among their findings was a shocking number ... well, some people might find it shocking. Michael Jordan made just over $94 million from contracts in his NBA career. Last year, his
ties from Jordan Brand netted him $100 million: Jordan’s finances were recently disclosed in a court case, and surprise, he makes an obscene amount of money, over a decade after he retired. The fact that he pulls in more per year than his playing career seems crazy ... until you put it into context. Let’s go ahead and throw out inflation (Jordan’s $4 million salary in 1994 would be over $6 million today). Jordan also entered the league in 1984, when the league was just beginning its largest profit expansion in its history. Were Jordan, with his talent, to enter the league today, he’d start off higher. Jordan, as a No. 2 pick in 1984, had a salary of less than a million, Karl AnthonyTowns will make $5.7 million this year with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Jordan topped out at $33 million in 1997 before the salary cap was instituted, but his first deal off his rookie contract started
at a measly $2 million. He’d be looking at between $15 and $20 million in today’s market. Jordan also played for Jerry Reinsdorf, and the tense negotiations between Jordan and Bulls ownership was detailed in Playing For Keeps by David Halberstam. Reinsdorf has a long history of balking over big expenditures with the Bulls. He wasn’t going to be the first to break the bank, even for his Airness. Jordan redefined the shoe industry, and that’s created that unprecedented amount of revenue. No one else has their own shoe company. Jordan helped make Nike, the most powerful athletic wear company on the planet. So naturally, he’s made more money than he made in salary. In reality, the hefty money today’s stars make can be traced back to the value Jordan showed for a player and the way he changed the game’s economics. Still, it’s a nice way to illustrate the point that remains: Michael Jordan makes an unfathomable amount of money as a retired player. To figure out who earned more in modern dollars than less valuable dollars in a different sports
landscape is always a fun, if frivolous exercise. This year, Alex Rodriguez will make about $46,000 per at-bat. In his prime, Mickey Mantle earned $65,000 for an entire season. Arnold Palmer made $2.1 million in his PGA career. Bill Haas, who has never made a top 10 at a major, earned $10 million just for winning the FedEx Cup in 2011. (Palmer, by the way, is the second-highest earning retired athlete at age 86 (!), bringing in $40 million with his endorsement deals, Arizona Iced Tea brand and other endeavors.) That’s just a product of the changing times (and inflation) though. Snow White brought in $8 million in its original theatrical release but is considered one of the top-
10 earning films of all time because of various re-releases and the fact that the cost of a movie ticket today probably could have bought you a nice little one-bedroom back in 1938. But the MJ thing is different. He’s still the highest paid player in NBA history over a single season! In his final two years with the Bulls, he earned $66.3 million. No one in NBA history has ever come close to either. Yet he still makes more money off the court and that’s for two reasons: While MJ made that $66.3 million in his last two seasons, he “only” made about $30 million in his 13 other NBA seasons. Also, people love sneakers. They just do. It’s crazy how much people love sneakers. I don’t get it but, hey, to each their own.
Serena Williams says US Open match was a win, not a loss NEW YORK -Serena Williams says her recent U.S. Open defeat was not a loss, but a win and a learning experience - and that she’s happy for the opponent, Roberta Vinci, who derailed her quest for a Grand Slam. ‘’We should be happy for each other, you know what I mean?’’ Williams said in an interview Tuesday after presenting her second collection for her fashion line, the Serena Williams Signature Statement Collection for the HSN network, at a high-profile runway show that drew influential Vogue editor Anna Wintour and other fashion heavyweights - not to mention rapper Drake. ‘’We gotta build up each other. We can’t be angry.’’ ‘’I mean, I won four Grand Slam (tournaments) in a row, and got to the semis in another one, and I’ve done that twice,’’ Williams said. ‘’I mean how many people have done that? So, yeah, it wasn’t a loss for me, it was a win and a learning experience. And I tried hard. Unfortunately the girl I played just outplayed me that day, you know ... She probably deserved it. And I am happy for her.’’ Williams, who won last year’s U.S. Open as well as the next three Grand Slam tournaments after that, also said designing was a great break from the pressure of her tennis career. ‘’I love what I do obviously, but I also
sometimes need a break from that - and I love fashion,’’ she said. ‘’It’s something I have a passion for.’’ Not that there wasn’t also pressure coming from the fashion world. Williams said that this time, she really felt pressure to deliver. ‘ ’This one I felt like I had to show something,’’ she said with a laugh. ‘’Because I felt like (last year), people were surprised, and I got so many good reviews and I was like, ‘Whoa.’ I didn’t know what to expect!’’ So she reached out to Wintour, she explained, and told her she was planning a second collection. ‘’And she said, ‘Let me help you, let me give you some notes,’’’ Williams recounted. ‘’And she was able to mentor me, and I was so appreciative of that. She said, ‘I loved your first collection, I was so surprised, but how can we take it to the next level?’ And I’m all about that!’’ Williams’ collection - shown to a soundtrack that included several of Drake’s songs - had a very contemporary vibe, with lots of fringed leather and suede, in skirts, jackets and dresses. (She herself was wearing a revealing fringed leather skirt that showed tiny short shorts underneath.) Highlights included a sleek, tiered black fringed dress; a black gown with a line of fringe down the back; and a short, deep green bomber jacket. ‘’Everything that’s in our
Serena Williams reacts after losing a point to Roberta Vinci, of Italy, during a semifinal match at the U.S. Open tennis tournament, Friday, Sept. 11, 2015, in New York. collection will be available right away (online), so we have to be current,’’ Williams said. ‘’Fringe is one of the trends that we set upon. Also, we wanted a vibe that’s homey, that’s nostalgic, ‘70s, in terms of the fringe and the suede and the colors, so that really spoke to us.’’ Williams said that designing comes easily to her.
‘’It’s easy because I went to school for it,’’ she said. ‘’Also, I have the most amazing team, and we work together.’’ She noted that her favorite role in the process is to sketch. ‘’I love to sketch,’’ she said. ‘’I mean, that’s what designers do. So I’ll just sketch something and then they’ll resketch it and make it perfect, and I’m like, that’s exactly what we’re looking for.’’
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Basketball Superstar, Dwyane Wade & Sandals Resort make donation to Raymond Gardiner High
By Marguerite Anderson
Three-time NBA champion, Dwyane Wade is making his mark among the young sporting fans and athletes in schools across the Turks & Caicos Islands. Raymond Gardiner High School in North Caicos benefitted from a donation of foot-gears this past Tuesday September 15th when representatives from the Beaches & Sandals Resorts paid a visit to the school. The occasion was to donate the Miami Heat star’s “Way of Wade” brand sneakers to the school’s basketball team- a gift promised a year ago by the NBA star, himself, who had visited the Turks and Caicos Islands in September 2014. In an interview with Public Relations Manager for Beaches Turks
& Caicos, Ms. Elanor Krzanowski , she explained that Beaches & Sandals Resorts have a philanthropic arm known as the Sandals Foundation and that it is mandatory that the organization adopts schools across the Caribbean . Krzanowski added that Raymond Gardiner High is not one of the adopted schools but that due to the resorts’s partnership with education, they chose to reach out to R.G.H.S in giving environmental and educational support . Mr. Wade is expected to make another visit to the islands by the end of the coming week and five new members of the RGHS Basketball team will be awarded the opportunity to meet the basketball icon in Providenciales on Saturday September 26th .
During Wade’s visit a year ago, the Sandals Resort embarked on a partnership with Wade’s World Foundation which is spearheaded by Mr. Dwyane Wade, himself. Through this partnership, an agreement was made to build ten basketball courts across the Caribbean. Already, plans are in effect with contractors to build a court in Five Cays. The erection of the sporting arena is a welcomed boost on the islands of the Turks & Caicos as it will open up competitive options for basketball athletes in TCI’s public schools. Wade’s up-coming visit is a follow-up to the one last year at a Game-Changer event which saw the basketball icon interacting with RGHS’ coach, Donavan Garvey and a number of final year student-athletes
from the Raymond Gardiner High School, all of whom have already graduated. The basketball superstar had promised, then, to donate three hundred Dwyane Wade branded basketball shoes to TCI. and he has honoured that promise. Beaches & Sandals Resorts received these gifts and set to distributing them among the public schools on all the islands. Sandals felt that the foot gears should be used to further the skills of players, to promote the love of the sport and to make basketball teams better. A presentation to the twelve team members of the Raymond Gardiner High School’s basketball team was made by Krzanowski and by Mickey Clare who visited the school’s campus on September 15th.
QUALITY SUPER KINGS SHOCK MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC By Michael C. Pereira The Turks and Caicos Islands Cricket Association Summer T20 Cricket League Tournament sponsored by HAB Group, continued on Sunday; 13th September 2015 at The Downtown Ball Park, Providenciales. Quality Super Kings called correctly and totaled a mountainous
221 runs for the loss of 3 wickets from the allotted 20 overs. Nuwan Bodhinayke the flamboyant left hander and National Wicket Keeper led the way with an unbeaten 140 runs. He plundered the bowling to all parts of the boundary blasting 14 shots to the boundary and 11 over. In the past, he had scores of 130, 147 and 150 in T20 matches. He was supported by Naga Kuthalingam with 28 runs, 3x4,
and 1x6. Thereby enabling Quality Super Kings to advance to the finals. Bowling for Mitsubishi Electric, Marlon Graham and Dax Bruton took 1 wicket each. In their chase Mitsubishi Electric were limited to 158 runs for 8 wickets in their 20 overs. Dane Ritchie top scored with 47 runs which consisted of 6x4 and Gareth Butler added 44 runs, 6x4.
Bowling for Quality Super Kings, Robert Johnson captured 3 wickets for 20 runs from 4 overs. Player of the match: Nuwan Bodhinayke. Meanwhile, the Police will tackle Kischo in the semifinals on Sunday 20th September at the Downtown Ball Park.
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Published by SUN MEDIA GROUP, Turks and Caicos Islands | Tel:649 339 5879 | Fax: 649 941 3281