VOLUME 12 - NO. 31
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
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AMERICA ISSUES ZIKA TRAVEL ALERT FOR TURKS AND CAICOS by Hayden Boyce Publisher & Editor-in-Chief
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n a move that could possibly have an impact on this country’s tourism, the US Centers for Disease Controls (CD) has issued a set of strict Zika warnings for persons travelling to the Turks and Caicos Islands. On Wednesday, August 3rd, 2016, the CDC issued an Alert Level 2 Travel Notice, their second highest alert, for the Turks and Caicos Islands and Antigua. Premier and Minister of Health Dr. Rufus Ewing announced on July 24th, 2016, that five confirmed cases of Zika infections have now been reported in the Turks and Caicos Islands. He said three of the cases were “imported” and two are currently undergoing further investigations to determine whether they are also imported or part of local transmissions According to the CDC, with a Level 2 Alert, there are “increased risk in defined settings or associated with specific risk factors and certain high-risk populations may wish to delay travel to these destinations”. After Level 2, there is a Level 3 warning which advises travelers “to avoid non essential travel to this destination”, because there is a high risk to travelers. Under the Level 1, which is the lowest or “Watch Level”, persons are advised to practise usual precautions, as there are usual baseline risk or slightly above baseline risk for destination and limited impact to the traveler. On its website, the CDC advised that “women who are pregnant should not travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands”. It also stated: “If you must travel, talk to your doctor first and strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites during your trip. If you have a partner who lives in or has traveled to the Turks and Caicos Islands, either use condoms or do not have sex (vaginal, anal, or oral) during your pregnancy. Women who are trying to become pregnant, before you or your partner travel, talk to your doctor about your plans to become pregnant and the risk of Zika virus infection. See CDC guidance for how long you should wait to
PNP launched its candidates T
he Progressive National Party (PNP) launched its candidates for the next General Elections on Saturday July 30th at the Headquarters - Progressive House, Airport Road, Providenciales. Pictured here are the candidates except for Hon. Ricardo D. Gardiner who attend the function but had to leave early. (See page 14 for more pictures).
get pregnant after travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands. You and your partner should strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites. People who have traveled to the Turks and Caicos Islands and have a pregnant partner should use condoms or not have sex (vaginal, anal, or oral) during the pregnancy.” The website said travelers returning from the Turks and Caicos Islands who have a pregnant partner should either use condoms or not have sex for the rest of the pregnancy. “People who have traveled to the Turks and Caicos Islands should
PNP still strong, says Akierra Missick - Page 8
Robbie Been is voice for youth - Page 7
Ingraham says Christie is best man to lead PLP - Page 33
20 new police recruits - Page 4
use condoms for at least 8 weeks after travel to protect their sex partners. Men who have Zika symptoms or are diagnosed with Zika should use condoms for at least 6 months after symptoms start; women with symptoms should use condoms for at least 8 weeks after symptoms start,” it was stated. “Travelers who are thinking about pregnancy should talk with their health care provider. Men who have traveled to the Turks and Caicos Islands should wait at least 8 weeks after travel before trying to get pregnant or at least 6
months after symptoms start if they develop symptoms of Zika. Women who have traveled to the Turks and Caicos Islands should wait at least 8 weeks after travel before trying to get pregnant, or at least 8 weeks after symptoms start if they develop symptoms.” The CDC noted that local mosquito transmission of Zika virus infection (Zika) has been reported in the Turks and Caicos Islands, adding that local mosquito transmission means that mosquitoes in the area are infected with Zika virus and are spreading it to people. Continued on Page 2
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
LOCAL NEWS
America Issues Zika Travel Alert For Turks And Caicos
Continued from Page 1
Because Zika virus is primarily spread by mosquitoes, the CDC recommends that travelers to the Turks and Caicos Islands protect themselves from mosquito bites. In his press release Premier Ewing, who is a medical doctor, said: “I am urging all residents and visitors of the Turks and Caicos Islands to remain calm as there is no evidence of in-country transmission at this time, although it remains possible. We are particularly asking pregnant women to take extra precaution to avoid mosquito bites and to visit our local public health care providers who are currently issuing mosquito nets and providing educational material.” Dr. Ewing said the Environmental Health Department and Public Health Disease Surveillance
Team of the Ministry of Health has stepped up surveillance activities and have been working with the persons infected with the Zika virus to ensure that the risk of in-country transmission is reduced. Many people infected with Zika virus do not feel sick. If a mosquito bites an infected person while the virus is still in that person’s blood, it can spread the virus by biting another person. “Even if they do not feel sick, travelers returning to the United States from the Turks and Caicos Islands should take steps to prevent mosquito bites for 3 weeks so that they do not spread Zika to uninfected mosquitoes,” the CDC added. CDC issues different types of notices for international
travelers. As of April 5, 2013, these patients returning from the Turks and definitions have been refined to make Caicos Islands. Clinicians should test the announcements more easily pregnant women with symptoms of understood by travelers, health-care Zika during travel or within 2 weeks of travel. Asymptomatic pregnant providers, and the general public. Many people infected with women who have traveled to the Turks Zika virus do not get sick. Among those and Caicos Islands can also be offered who do develop symptoms, sickness is testing. usually mild, with symptoms that last The countries in the Caribbean for several days to a week. Guillain- that have reported cases of Zika, are: Barré syndrome (GBS), a rare disorder Anguilla; Antigua and Barbuda; Aruba; that can cause muscle weakness and Barbados; Bonaire; Cuba; Curaçao; Dominican Republic; paralysis for a few weeks to several Dominica; months, is very likely triggered by Grenada; Guadeloupe; Haiti; Jamaica; Zika in a small proportion of infections, Martinique; the Commonwealth of much as it is after a variety of other Puerto Rico, a US territory; Saba; Saint infections. Most people fully recover Barthelemy; Saint Lucia; Saint Martin; from GBS, but some have permanent Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; Sint Eustatius; Sint Maarten; Trinidad and damage. The CDC said health care Tobago; Turks and Caicos Islands; US providers should be alert to pregnant Virgin Islands
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
LOCAL NEWS
PDM Leader comments on various national issues by Hon. Sharlene Cartwrigth-Robinson
Leader of the Oppisition
ZIKA VIRUS The PDM is seriously concerned with what seems to be a lack of commitment on the part of the Government to seriously address the We like the country were shocked and disturbed that this Government had only seen it fit to inform the people of this country of the presence of the Zika Virus on the fifth case. Most countries had informed its people on its first case and stepped up awareness. As a people we were short changed and left in the dark on a critical issue that can seriously impact our lives and the lives of pregnant women. We can ill afford the spread. The CDC has been embarking on record breaking activity by addressing a town of 15 cases in Florida, we are at 5 and we see no real response. We heard the Premier and Minister of Health’s response when he said that his Government would aggressively fight but we see no aggression. Where is the education?
Where is the clean up? Where is the urgency? No we need not take an approach to frighten but to increase awareness and assure that our people are taking precautions. The Government must show leadership on this issue. Our country has never before been so dirty and we ought to have seen teams on the road identifying areas for immediate attention as this country is easily a breeding ground for mosquito borne diseases. I wish to also call on residents to do their part, remove water that may have collected around your yards in open containers, remove those containers including old tires and oil surrounding waters (cooking oil can be effective). Be sure to spray your homes and use repellants. I call on the Government to lead on this issue and truly aggressively fight on our behalf. POPULATION EXPLOSION Prior to and during the debate on the Immigration Bill, I have been calling for the Census and the need
to create a population policy. The statistics released recently by ECLAC is concerning and has presented no real surprise in terms of the current state. However we believe that much can be done in terms of its projection. The Government must see the wisdom in managing population growth and designing the Turks and Caicos Islands we wish to see. We can not continue to ignore this issue and we again call on the Government to release the detailed Census Report and commit to a timeline for a Population Policy. SERVICE CHARGE COMMITTEE Several months back, I sponsored a Motion to the House calling for a review of the treatment of service charge in this country. I note the establishment of a Service Charge Committee and we are surprised that one has been formed given the trivial reasons members of the Government gave in order not to support the Motion. I must admit that I am not exactly hopeful that anything will come out of this Committee. We have
Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson seen Committees established following Motions brought in the House and the work was treated with very little or no urgency. We know that our people are relying on us to keep the Government’s feet to the fire on this issue and we are publicly calling on the Government to treat this matter with urgency.
Will Clarence Selver resign as PDM Appointed Member?
Hon. Clarence Selver
The People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) apparently can’t fire Hon. Clarence Selver as its Appointed Member in the House of Assembly although he has left the party and is running as an Independent in the next general elections. It appears as though, under the Constitution, Selver would have to resign as the PDM’s Appointed Member. In a press statement, PDM leader Hon. Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson stated: “Hon Selver is currently serving
as the Opposition’s Appointed Member in the House of Assembly and as an appointed member to the Appropriations and Expenditure Committees. All appointments are by the hand of the Leader of the Opposition.” She added: “We understand the Constitution of this country and appreciate that all appointments are by way of consultation with the Leader of the Opposition. However the PDM believes that it is a matter for Hon Selver as to whether he
chooses to continue to serve on a PDM issued Platform. We wish to publicly thank him for his service over the years and we will be happy to welcome him back if he chooses to return.” The press statement said Selver has served the PDM over 30 years in various positions. Within the past few weeks, he has informed the Party of his intention to run as an independent candidate in the upcoming elections and also that he will no longer be a part of the PDM Party.
20 police recruits begin training The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force has welcomed 20 new faces to the Department. The men and women started initial training on Monday, August 1st 2016, beginning a threemonth journey to become officers. Over the training period, the new recruits will undergo both classroom and situational training which includes basic police procedures and duties, swimming and lifesaving, customer service, firearm, self-defence, drill and physical training. The officers are all sworn constables with full police powers but will be based in, and patrol, main tourist areas once their training is complete.
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
Integrity Commission to meet political party leaders and Independent candidates
As part of its commitment to support and guide the Political Parties and Independent Candidates in their preparations for the upcoming General Elections and thereafter, especially in relation to their obligations under the Political Activities Ordinance, the Integrity Commission has completed arrangements to meet with the Leaders and Executive of the Political Parties as well as the prospective Independent Candidates for briefing sessions during the week commencing 15 August, 2016. Eugene Otuonye, Q.C., director of the Commission, said these meetings will provide opportunity for the Commission to engage closely with the political party officials and the independent candidates separately, in an informal and interactive setting, at which the Commission will explain and provide guidance to the parties and independent candidates as to their respective obligations under the
Sherrington McIntosh jailed for 8 years
Political Activities Ordinance. “These briefing sessions will cover important areas such as registration, recording of donations and campaign expenditure, guidance notes on loans, dormant companies, notice of contracts with TCIG and filing of returns. Packages containing information brochures and relevant forms will also be provided at these meetings.,” said Otuonye. The Meetings are scheduled as follows: Meeting with Independent Candidates is on Wednesday 17 August, 2016 at 5pm; Meeting with Political Party Leaders and Executives is on Friday 19 August, 2016 at 5pm. The venue for these meetings will be the Blue Haven Resort Conference Room, Providenciales The Commission is therefore inviting the political party Leaders and their Executives as well as prospective Independent Candidates to these
Sherrington McIntosh, 36, of Five Cays who was found guilty on Monday 20th June 2016 for false imprisonment, burglary and common assault was sentenced to 8 years imprisonment for the offences on Friday 29th July 2016 in the Supreme Court. On Thursday 3rd December 2015 at 4 a.m., a woman contacted the police station and reported that McIntosh was trying to burglarize her home. When police arrived at the scene
Eugene Otuonye, Q.C., director of the Integrity Commission meetings on their respective dates. In preparation for these meetings, the Commission is also requesting all potential Independent Candidates to
in Kew Town Providenciales, McIntosh who had already gained entrance into the house, slapped the complainant and held her and her 10-month-old daughter hostage, while making threats to burn the house with a gas tank and matches. After several hours of negotiation with officers, he agreed to come out of the house and freed the victims. He was immediately arrested and later charged with the offences mentioned.
contact the Commission latest by 4 pm on Friday 12 August 2016 to confirm their attendance at the briefing sessions. Otuonye added: “These meetings are part of the ongoing public education engagements with the political parties and candidates in the run up to and after the general elections. The meetings are crucial to fostering understanding and to secure the commitment of the Parties and Candidates to transparency and integrity in the electoral process” Contact can be made by telephone at 946-1941; 338-3335; 338-3334; 338-3340 or via e-mail at: deputydirector@integritycommission. tc or publicedu@integritycommission. tc or secretary@integritycommission.tc Contact persons are Mr. Richard Been (Deputy Director) or Mrs. Wanda Ariza (Secretary) or Imterniza McCartney (Public Education Officer).
Mr. McIntosh was sentenced to two (2) years imprisonment for common assault, five (5) years for burglary and eight (8) years for false imprisonment. They will run concurrently. Prior to committing the offences above, he was bound over to keep the peace for two (2) years for a previous Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm offence. Due to him breaching that order he was fined $1,000.
Supermercado Dominicano Ltd. and E&R Supermarket Ltd., an affiliated group of whole sale and retail sales stores, invites applications from suitably qualified candidates for the following positions: Chukka Caribbean Adventures (TC I) Ltd is about playtime! It’s about fun, laughter and a passion for life. Every single member of the CHUKKA team in Jamaica, Belize and Turks & Caicos contributes to helping their guests play; they get to wow them at every turn with all that the Caribbean has to offer. Chukka is always looking for new talent to add to our dynamic team. OPERATIONS LOGISTICS OFFICER – Grand Turk Operations All successful applicants should satisfy the following criteria: o Must have a Degree in Hotel & Tourism Management. o Minimum of 5 years in a Management/Supervisory position in a Tourism. o Must have minimum of 2 years working within the Cruise Industry. o Must demonstrate a high level of integrity and professionalism. o Must have excellent oral and written communication skills. o Trustworthy & Reliable disposition with a Clean Criminal record. o Positive & disciplined work attitude in a customer service oriented business. o Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including on weekends, public holidays as necessary to meet the challenging needs of cruise ship schedules and/or reasonable needs of the business. Job Specifics: o Coordinate the planning of department heads and team leads with regards to work schedules, timelines. o Working with Operations team to solve Excursion & Tour bottlenecks in the daily operations. o Coordinate the Tour logistics between the cruise lines and operations. o Coordination of the execution of activities via instructions to the team leads and managers. o Determination of operational support needs by working with Inventory control to ensure o peration needs are in stock or coordinating with the Purchasing department to place order. o Assist the Operations Manager to solve any chronic logistical challenges or problems that exist. o Working with the Cruise manager and Dispatch supervisor to ensure clear communication to the Cruise lines/ o Working directly with the Cruise Lines Shore Excursion Management to reduce or eliminate chronic bottlenecks in the sales process. o Responsible to evaluate all the collateral for the Cruise lines to include Brochures, Pictures & videos. o Implement all SOPS and continually tweak, change and re implement whilst working with the Operations Managers and Team leads. o Work with the Administration Team to reduce any cluster within the documentation and filing areas. o Working with the Administration team to ensure adequate focus for incoming invoices, payment of invoices and for the drawing up of periodical management data. o Assist HR department leader with any logistics or daily issues associated to include hiring, payroll or staff motivation. o Be responsible for the process management and implementation throughout the company. o Work closely with the General or Country Manager to create weekly and month reports to evaluate Operational performances in all areas. Salary is negotiable depending on qualification and experience, in addition reasonable transportation allowance will be provided. Written applications only and accompanying CVs/Resumes must be addressed to the Resident Manager at the following address: CHUKKA CARIBBEAN ADVENTURES (TCI) LTD. c/o EPIC Corporate& Consultancy Services Ltd. Cee’s Plaza, Suite No.1 Church Folly P.O. Box 86, Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands Phone: 649-332-1339, Fax: 649-946-1570
The successful applicants must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including on weekends and public holidays, as necessary to meet the reasonable needs of the business and possess: A Proven and unblemished track record of employment A Positive and disciplined attitude toward work in a customer service oriented business Excellent communication, inter-personal and customer service skills Trustworthy and reliable disposition Must be a team player and able to work in concert with others. Be well-spoken with English as primary language. A clean criminal record. In addition to the foregoing, interested candidates for the positions as: SHOP KEEPERS/SUPERVISOR/MERCHANDISER Must have at least 3 to 5 years extensive experience and advanced knowledge in the Grocery sales and Merchandising business. Must be proficient in the use and operation of relevant retail sales and merchandising computer software programmes, viz, Quick Books, Point of Sales Systems, etc. Must be able to work under little or no supervision Proficiency in another written and spoken language in addition to English will be a definite advantage. SALES CLERKS/CASHIER Must have a minimum of 3 years general sales and merchandising experience Computer literate HOUSEKEEPER/LABOURER/SHELF STOCKER Must be willing and able to attend to general housekeeping and general maintenance duties, including stocking of shelves, keeping store and surrounding areas clean, habitable and presentable. BUTCHER Must have a minimum of 3 years’ experience in cutting, trimming, packaging and presentation of meats for retail sales. Proven knowledge and familiarity with the various cuts of meats. Suitable candidates that do not meet the above requirements may, at the sole discretion of the Company’s management team, be eligible for consideration in circumstances where they demonstrate a clear willingness to embrace the Company’s in-house training initiatives and established standard operating policies and procedures. Preference will be given to documented Turks and Caicos Islanders. Written applications only and accompanying CVs/Resumes must be addressed to the Resident Manager at the following address: The Managing Director Supermercado Dominicano/E & R Supermarket Ltd. C/o EPIC Corporate & Consultancy Services Ltd. Cee’s Plaza, Suite No. 1 Church Folly, P.O Box 86 Grand Turk Turks & Caicos Islands Fax: 649-946-1571 Email: epic@epiccorporate.com
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
LOCAL NEWS
PNP is alive and well, says Ruth Blackman
Hon. Ruth Blackman who was the selected Progressive National Party (PNP) candidate for South Caicos Electoral District 3 said the party is alive and well. Speaking at the PNP’s candidates launch at the PNP Headquarters, Airport Road, Providenciales on Saturday July 30th, 2016, Blackman said, “The PNP is alive and well. People want us to believe that we’re dead and we’re this and we’re that, and everyday there is doom and gloom. But it is quite evident that from the turnout here that the PNP Party is alive and well and on its way to a
victory for a 4th consecutive term. I want you PNPs to not be distracted. Stay focused. The prize is ahead of us and we cannot turn back.” Hon. Blackman expressed how grateful she is to the people of South Caicos for giving her the opportunity to represent them, adding that she had no idea when she moved to South Caicos several years ago to look after two aging parents that she would end up as the PNP candidate. She said the people of South Caicos saw in her what I she didn’t see in herself. “I come from the Civil Service, and so I have a passion for the civil service,” said Blackman, who is the Government’s Appointed
Member in the House of Assembly.”I want to see a continuous training programme for the civil service and that is happening now. But the other thing that bothers me is that with the repeal of the Pension Ordinance, many of our civil servants will find themselves when they retire at age 65, just getting the NIB pension. So I want to challenge the Hon. Premier and the Hon. Minister for Finance that we’ve got to look at some other ways and means to allow the civil servants to be able to have a second pension so that when they retire they can retire as the Hon. Premier like to say ‘In the health and in the wealth’
Ruth Blackman Candidate for South Caicos
Windvibes donates $37,000 to ten local charities
Front L-R (Representative from the Kidney Foundation, Ethlyn Gibbs-Williams, TC National Trust, Anansa Jervis, AIDS Foundation, Maxcia Rigby, HOPE Foundation for Autism, Karen Savory, Food For Thought.) Back L-R (Jill Swann, Mike Rosati, Hope LeVin, Windvibes Team.) The Turks and Caicos Islands largest watersports event Windvibes scored yet another successful year celebrating their 10th Anniversary. Due to the success of the event organizers were able to raise $37,000 to donate to ten different local charities. The check presentation took
place on Friday July 22nd at the Long Bay Beach where the Windvibes event took place. The event hosted its first Windvibes Gala that took place on Wednesday June 8th, 2016 at Opus Bar & Grill in Providenciales and the Main event which was held on Sunday July 10th, 2016 on Long Bay Beach.
The ten different local charities that received these donations included; Food For Thought, The Turks and Caicos Aids Foundation, The National Trust, The Kidney Foundation, Hope Awareness Foundation and others. Event founder Hope LeVin said that the organization is so excited to have raised this amount of money for the local community and to be giving back to the Turks and Caicos Islands. She told media houses, “We did originally set a goal for $50,000 for the local charities so $5,000 for each of the ten, while we didn’t make our $50,000 we are still incredibly happy and grateful to have reached $37,000 for the local charities and that number already beyond tripled what we raised last year for the National Trust which was just over $10,000, so maybe next year we’ll raise $100, 000.” Jill Swann said the watersports has developed children’s skill and when you decide to take that initiative and start giving back to the community and give to charity it makes you feel fantastic.
Windvibes is an amateur watersports event combining the sports of kiteboarding, kayaking, standing up paddling, swimming and windsurfing. It also organises many family friendly beach games through the day. It’s the Turks and Caicos Islands largest watersports event and annually attracts hundreds to the beach. Event founder Hope LeVin, a local professional kiteboarder, launched Windvibes on Providenciales in 2007— at the age of 13. At that point, Hope had been kiteboarding in the Turks and Caicos for three years and often heard fellow kiteboarders lament about the lack of kiteboarding events in the country. And she decided to do something about it. This event was launched with the goal of promoting fun, active and healthy watersports in the Turks and Caicos. As it gained popularity they’ve begun to use it as a platform for the good of the entire Turks and Caicos community. Last year they raised over $10,000 for the Turks and Caicos National Trust.
Fourth person charged with Sunny Food Store Robbery As investigations into the Sunny Foods store robbery continues, a 27-year-old-male of Blue Hills Providenciales has been arrested and charged with Robbery and inflicting Grevous Bodily Harm. The male is the fourth person charged
in connection with the incident that occurred at Reginald Presil, 32-year-olds Fritzer Prevalus and the store on Sunday 10th April 2016 where ex- Wilbert Almonor who were charged on Monday Superintendent of Police Alboin Williams was shot 19th July 2016 with Conspiracy to Commit multiple times by three (3) masked men who got Robbery are presently on remand awaiting away with a large undisclosed amount of money. sufficiency hearing set for Friday 2nd September The other three males, 33-year-old 2016.
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
Robert Been Jnr. wants to be the voice and representative of TCI youth
By Todeline Defralien
Robert "Bobbie" Been Jnr., one of the People's Democratic Movement's (PDM) At Large candidates, says he wants to be the voice and representative for the youth of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Been who is very passionate about representing the youth of the TCI has been visiting some of the various islands to hear the cries and concerns of the youth. In an interview with The SUN, Been said he is anxious to be part of a Government that is serious about addressing the many social issues that are affecting the Turks and Caicos Islands. The visions that Been has for the youth includes: creating new jobs by creating new industries, a trade school to develop non-traditional talents in the job market, increasing scholarship funding to push to Masters Degree level, more strategic student placements for degree programs, better subsidy for sports talent and sports organizations, better business start up initiatives and concessions for new and emerging Youth businesses. He would also like to see summer internships for on-the- job development specially targeted to
High School students, revamping and reviewing the current offerings at TCICC; ensuring a wider more a wider more sophisticated hospitality degree program and more fun recreation which can also double as sporting center; such as bowling alley, pool tables, darts, skating rinks, etc. He said Government should actively support entrepreneurial development in these areas and then ensure that these spots which should be established country wide are safe. In an interview with The SUN, Been said, “I have been doing my own private island hopping tours myself and I just visited Grad Turk over the weekend and I had the opportunity to speak with a few young guys and listening to those guys they are not asking for too much. They just want an opportunity. I must say that they are really fed up with the Government systems and as they mentioned they are upset with both parties.” He added: “Grand Turk isn’t asking for much. For example, the guys said that even if it’s a two-storey hotel built in Grand Turk they would be happy and pleased with that, where they can get more employment. We all can agree that in Grand Turk, most employment is within the Government verses the private sector. The guys don’t really want to leave their native island.
Chukka Caribbean Adventures (TC I) Ltd is about playtime! It’s about fun, laughter and a passion for life. Every single member of the CHUKKA team in Jamaica, Belize and Turks & Caicos contributes to helping their guests play; they get to wow them at every turn with all that the Caribbean has to offer. Chukka is always looking for new talent to add to our dynamic team. INVENTORY PARTS & COST CONTROLLER – Grand Turk Operations All successful applicants should satisfy the following criteria: oMinimum Diploma / Certificate in Supervisory Management. oMinimum of 2 years in Supervisory Position working in a Tourism environment oMinimum 5 years experience working with Parts & Inventory distribution & controls associated with for Trucks, recreational vehicles and or Marine Vessels. oMust demonstrate a high level of integrity and professionalism. oMust have excellent oral and written communication skills. oTrustworthy & Reliable disposition with a Clean Criminal record. oPositive & disciplined work attitude in a customer service oriented business. oMust be willing and able to work flexible hours, including on weekends, public holidays as necessary to meet the challenging needs of cruise ship schedules and/or reasonable needs of the business. Job Specifics: o Coordinate the planning of Company Stores and Inventory department. o Develop Inventory trackers and stores record keeping systems. o Produce weekly and monthly reports associated with inventory and storeroom operations. o Working with Operations team to determine needs of specific Motorized units to include Truck, ATVs, Dune Buggys, Boats and Large Catamarans. o Research and locate Suppliers associated with specific Parts needs. o Coordinate and work with purchasing team to get approvals for purchasing of Parts and supplies. o Coordination of shipment to include transportation and customs. o Stock control management to include, reorder levels and quantities. o Constantly be looking at different suppliers and parts to determine the best suited for the environment. o Assist the Operations Manager to do inspections to determine quality of parts and products being purchased. o Provide suppliers/vendors reports on Parts quality, accuracy with the aim of improving partnerships and getting better service. o Develop and implement all SOPS associated with Inventory and storerooms. o Work with the Administration and Accounting team to ensure all invoices are properly documented and processed for payments. o Work closely with the General or Country Manager to find ways to contain operational costs and expenditures. Salary is negotiable depending on qualification and experience, in addition reasonable transportation allowance will be provided. Written applications only and accompanying CVs/Resumes must be addressed to the Resident Manager at the following address: CHUKKA CARIBBEAN ADVENTURES (TCI) LTD. c/o EPIC Corporate& Consultancy Services Ltd. Cee’s Plaza, Suite No.1 Church Folly P.O. Box 86, Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands Phone: 649-332-1339, Fax: 649-946-1570
They want more private businesses to be operated over there.” He said that the cries of people of North Caicos are similar to Grand Turk’s; they are feeling neglected and the men and women don’t want to leave North Caicos to come to Provo for a living. They want to have more opportunities and he thinks that a number of things should have been put in place before these young people. “We really need to invest more into our sports programs in Turks and Caicos and by investing basically we will start producing stars because we have stars in Turks and Caicos. I think we should start sending our guys to NCAA schools. They would have better opportunities to get drafted. I have not heard any Government discussing those things. Let’s start investing more from not just bachelors, invest more to get degree levels up to masters,” Been explained. He stressed that he thinks Turks and Caicos needs to have a 20 year national development plan for the country instead of a four year plan. He continued: “I do think there is a need for a reform school but if but in the event if we do something such as a reform school we should probably put it on one of the other islands instead of sending them to Grand Turk. I wouldn’t necessarily call it a boot camp,
Robert “Bobbie” Been Jr visits Grand Turk and North Caicos but one of those programs that these guys will be eager to get out, serve their time and come play their part into society. We need to address the youth and a lot of people continue to stress, why am I always talking about the youth. But as I continue to say, the youth are the future of the Turks and Caicos and if we continue to forget the youth, you have to remember everyone ages you are not going to be able to hold a post for the rest of your life.”
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
LOCAL NEWS
PNP remains strong, says Deputy Premier Akierra Missick By Todeline Defralien
Deputy Premier Hon. Akierra Missick said the Progressive National Party (PNP) remains strong, despite the criticisms from detractors. “The PNP Party is strong today. We’ll be strong tomorrow. We’ll be strong at the polls and we will continue governing this country on the road to prosperity and progress,” Missick said at a function to launch the PNP candidates, on Saturday July 30th at the PNP Headquarters, Airport Road in Providenciales. “But this cannot be done without your help, without your support, without your time and your effort. So let us come together as one voice, PNP, and make it known that the Progressive National Party is the Government of choice for these islands.”
Turks and Caicos Sun
She added: “The other guys, I rarely ever speak about because they’re a non-entity when it comes to the PNP. We are the party of the people. We are the progressive Party for this country. We are the Party who built the Turks and Caicos Islands. They (PDM) want you to believe that it’s all doom and gloom and that the world is about to end. Well if you look at these bright faces that I’m getting ready to a campaign with (PNP candidates) how can you doubt the future of the Turks and Caicos is anymore bright than you can see on this stage tonight.” Missick encouraged supporters of the PNP Party to not be distracted or confused by the noise in the market. “The work that I’ve been able to do as your Minister of Education, as your Deputy Premier has allowed me
Suite#5, Airport Plaza Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Tel: (649) 339-5879 Fax: (649) 941-3281 Email: sun@suntci.com Read us online at www.suntci.com
Deputy Premier Hon. Akierra Missick an opportunity to touch every district, every life on every island in the Turks and Caicos Islands. As we go ahead and recommence the door to door during the campaign we want volunteers for Leeward in Long Bay, we need your help we need your support,” Missick explained. Missick said she looks forward to asking everyone at Leeward and Long Bay for their support of her as their District Candidate but for her At Large Candidates as well.
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief: Hayden Boyce Office Manager: Dominique Rigby Graphic designer Information Technology and Production Manager: Kelano Howell Todeline Defralien Reporter
Grand Turk stakeholders meeting The community of Grand Turk and in particular operators of Hotels, tourism related businesses and all interested persons are invited to a Town Hall Meeting sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Finance on Monday, 15thAugust, 2016 at 6pm at the Dillon Hall, Grand Turk. The objective of the Town Hall Meeting will be to focus on the expansion of the Holiday Rental market; including Hotels, Vacation
Rental Homes and Villas, Apartments and Bed and Breakfast facilities and services on the island of Grand Turk; and how it can deliver real benefits to the economy, the local community and the sustainability of tourism on Grand Turk. The specific outcome of the meeting is expected to: Determine the requirements for the holiday rental industry and educate existing and potential operators; identify possible assistance that can be offered
to persons who are interested in entering the holiday rental sector; Notify prospects of assistance available for this sector through the concessions provided by the MSME programme; and identify other potential businesses that may qualify for support. The community is encouraged to attend this very important Town Hall Meeting to solicit and exchange feedback on key issues surrounding alternative accommodations.
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.
Part B: EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AT THE TCICC Applications are invited from suitably qualified and experienced persons for the following full-time lecturing positions at the TCICC for the semester commencing 1st September 2016.
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE (TCICC) Part A: Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for admissions into the following programmes at the TCICC for the semester commencing 1st September 2016. I. General Certificate of Education (Advanced Level) Programme in the following subjects: Grand Turk Campus: Providenciales Campus: 1. Accounting 1. Accounting 2. Biology 2. Business 3. Business 3. Economics 4. Chemistry 4. Information Technology 5. Economics 5. Mathematics 6. Information Technology 6. Law 7. Law 7. Psychology 8. Mathematics 8. Sociology 9. Physics 10. Psychology 11. Sociology II. Hospitality Studies (Grand Turk Campus): •Tourism Management •Culinary Arts Note: Candidates can select FOUR subjects at the A/S Level and THREE subjects at the A/Level. Applicants must satisfy the following minimum requirements: Five GCE (O/Level) or CXC subjects including English A and Mathematics at the General Proficiency Level with Grads I and II or GCE (O/Level) Grades A and B. Applications should be fully completed and then submitted to the Registrar, TCI Community College, P O Box 236, Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands or to TCI Community College, Providenciales Campus for the attention of the Registrar by August 22, 2016. Late application fee of $50 should accompany the application form.
1. Department of Computer Engineering & Mathematics: •1 Position: Engineering with Mathematics and Physics 2. Technical/Vocational Studies: •1 Position: Architectural/Building Design with Woodwork and Engineering Lecturers are required to teach across different academic levels from the G.C.E. Advanced level, Caribbean Advanced Proficiency and up to the Associate and Bachelor Degree levels. Multi-disciplinary candidates are particularly encouraged to apply for these positions. Minimum qualifications for the teaching positions are a Master’s Degree from an accredited and recognized institution plus a Teaching Certificate/ Diploma or postgraduate Diploma and no less than three years post qualification teaching experience. A Bachelor’s Degree with a minimum of a second class honors or other postgraduate qualifications, teaching certificate/ Diploma and experience in teaching at Tertiary level may be considered. Salary is in the scale Level I: US$27,399.90 - $39,102.30 per annum. Level II: US$40,210.00 - $43,488.40 per annum. Entry point will depend on qualifications and experience. In the case of staff recruited from overseas, appointment is on contractual terms for an initial period of two years. A gratuity is payable at the end of satisfactory contractual service at the rate of 10% of salary drawn during the period of service. A housing allowance is payable at existing rates. Applications with copies of qualifications (including official transcripts), two character references, a police record and a recent testimonial from current place of employment should be sent to the: PRESIDENT, TCI COMMUNITY COLLEGE, P.O. BOX 236, LIGHTHOUSE ROAD, GRAND TURK, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS to reach not later than 23rd August, 2016. Where possible applicants should e-mail or fax their applications. FAX: 649 946 1661 EMAIL tcicomc@tciway.tc
TELE: 649 946 1163 (copy: dean@tcicomc-edu.com)
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LOCAL NEWS
PAHO and UK Overseas Territories in the Caribbean map future technical cooperation Ministers of Health from the U.K. Overseas Territories (UKOTs) in the Caribbean ended a twoday meeting at the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) last week by agreeing on new priorities for technical cooperation to improve the health of their populations. The top health authorities from Anguilla, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Montserrat, and Turks and Caicos, along with PAHO Director Carissa F. Etienne, signed a “strategic note” outlining a new cooperation strategy that seeks to create synergies among the territories to address social and environmental conditions that impact health, to mobilize resources, and to facilitate the development of a unified position and a stronger voice on health matters in the Caribbean. “We are proud of this accomplishment,” said Etienne, noting that the agreement marked the first time the territories have set a multicountry agenda for PAHO/WHO technical cooperation in health. “We believe this strategy will facilitate pooling and mobilization of joint resources, joint action, and increased efficiencies.” The document sets out three lines of health action that will be supported with PAHO/WHO technical cooperation over the next six years: (1) promoting physical and mental health throughout the life course, (2) building safe and resilient environments to facilitate effective responses to health emergencies and hazards, and (3) strengthening the governance, organization, and management of health systems to achieve access to health and universal health coverage. The goal of achieving universal health was adopted by all PAHO Member States in 2014 as part of the regional Strategy for Universal Access to Health and Universal Health Coverage. The UKOTs—whose populations range from about 5,000 (in Montserrat) to 70,000 (in Bermuda)— face a number of common health challenges. In all six territories, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), especially cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer, are the leading causes of death, and the prevalence of these diseases is expected to rise given
Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing attending the PAHO meeting the growing rates of overweight and obesity, and because of the territories’ aging populations. The UKOTs face various levels of difficulty delivering primary care to smaller islands in their jurisdictions. All six territories have recently had to cope with the emergence of new diseases such as chikungunya and Zika. In addition to these disease threats, all are highly vulnerable to natural disasters such as tropical storms, hurricanes, and volcanic eruptions. Climate change is a growing concern that is already having adverse impacts on production activities, the health status and wellbeing of the population, infrastructure, and ecosystems. Moreover, the islands are highly dependent on a few types of economic activity, especially tourism and agriculture, that are particularly sensitive to weather factors. Under the new strategy, PAHO/WHO will assist health authorities in tackling these common health challenges by implementing comprehensive strategies that seek to: •Expand equitable access to comprehensive, quality, peopleand community-centered health services. •Strengthen stewardship and governance for universal health in
the context of health sector reform. behalf of the Director, I would like •Integrate mental health services to re-confirm PAHO’s continued into primary health care, while commitment to working alongside the strengthening those services at UKOTs to implement this strategy. the secondary and tertiary levels. This is critical since it will not only •Address NCD risk factors, address the public health needs of the especially poor diet and tobacco use, UKOTs but also contribute to improved through regulatory frameworks reporting on the goals and targets of that help make the healthy choice the PAHO Strategic Plan as well as the the easier for people to make. Sustainable Development Goals.” •Increase and improve health UKOT participants in the systems financing and advance meeting included Anguilla’s Minister toward the elimination of direct of Health and Social Development, payments that are a barrier to Evans McNeil Rogers; Bermuda’s access at the point of service. Minister of Health, Seniors and •Strengthen integrated vector Environment, Jeanne Atherden; the management to control British Virgin Islands’ Permanent Zika, chikungunya and other Secretary of the Ministry of Health arboviruses. and Social Development, Petrona •Promote safe and resilient Davies; Councillor Roy McTaggart health facilities while reducing of the Ministry of Finance and their carbon footprint using the Economic Development and Chief PAHO/WHO “SMART hospitals” Officer Jennifer Ahearn of the Cayman approach. Islands; Montserrat’s Deputy Premier •Strengthen capacity to prepare and Minister of Education, Health for and respond to “all-hazards” and Social Services, Delmaude Ryan; emergencies. Turks and Caicos’s Premier and •Develop and implement cross- Minister of Health, Agriculture and territory health information Human Services, Rufus Ewing; and systems. Jenny Harries, Director of Public Health England’s South of England “This milestone is the Regional Office. Also participating cumulative result of much effort, were technical and managerial staff consultation, collaboration and from PAHO/WHO’s headquarters and consensus,” said Dr. Merle Lewis, country offices in the Caribbean. PAHO/WHO’s Chief of Staff. “On
INTERCARIBBEAN AIRWAYS HAS THE FOLLOWING VACANCIES:
INTERCARIBBEAN IS SEEKING AN EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
Captain and First officers for EBM120 fleet FAA license aircraft mechanics with EMB120 training FAA license dispatchers Refuellers/light truck drivers Auto Mechanics experience with diesel engines Ramp agent Flight attendant Airport host Baggage handlers Aircraft Cleaners Labourers Security guards Butler Interested persons send resume to HR@incaribbean.com. Belongers and PRC holders need only apply.
Intercaribbean is seeking a professional executive secretary with seven years or more experience in providing effective and comprehensive support to senior executives. Candidates should possess the highest degree of integrity, supported by a flawless record of maintaining confidentiality. Should be adaptable to changing situations and flexible about overtime and running personal errands for executive.
Summary of skills needed:
•Self motivated •Proficient in Microsoft word, excel and power point. Ability to work independently and prioritizes work appropriately. •Event Coordination •Excellent time management skills •Detail orientated •Exemplary customer service delivery and team player attitude •Types 80 wpm
Belongers and PRC holders need only apply to HR@intercaribbean.com
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LOCAL NEWS
Turks and Caicos Collection trains team on HACCP The Turks and Caicos Collection (TCC) of resorts – Alexandra Resort, Beach House Turks and Caicos, and Blue Haven Resort and Marina - has completed training food and beverage employees on safe food handling practices. TCC is the only the second resort company in Turks and Caicos to complete this comprehensive training program. A total of 129 food and beverage workers were trained. The total time spent in the classroom was 680 hours. In addition, 23 food and beverage chefs and managers certified as ServSafe
professionals. Each attendee received a food handler’s safety refresher course, in compliance with the requirements established in the new Food and Drug Ordinance that came into effect on April 1, 2016. The ordinance requires all food and beverage personnel in Turks and Caicos to have a food handlers’ permit. The 23 food and beverage chefs and managers who completed the training are now Certified Food Protection Managers. For comparison purposes, in the United States legislation requires that there is one
Certified Food Protection Manager on training program included introduction site during the handling, production to food safety, keeping food safe, safe and serving of food. TCC now food handling, understanding food significantly exceeds that industry contaminations and foodborne illnesses, benchmark. the role of the kitchen steward and “We are very proud to be food safety, introduction to allergies, one of the only resort companies on the safe flow of food and the proper Providenciales to have completed this receiving and storage of food. very important and extensive training The TCC’s restaurants include program with our entire food and Asu on the Beach at the Alexandra beverage team,” stated Wayne Garland, Resort, Kitchen 218 and Beach Deck the TCC’s Director of Training. “The at Beach House Turks and Caicos, safety of our guests and employees is and Fire & Ice, Salt Bar & Grill and our number one priority. This program Market’s café at Blue Haven Resort further helps us achieve that objective.” and Marina. Topics covered during the
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LOCAL NEWS
Ralph Higgs resigns as director of tourism
The Turks and Caicos Tourist Board has announced that after 20 years of employment, Ralph Higgs has tenured his resignation as Director of Tourism, effective September 30, 2016. Higgs is expected to be contest the next election as a candidate for the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) in the North Caicos and Middle Caicos constituency. Under Higgs’ directorship, the Turks and Caicos Islands received numerous accolades from the likes of TripAdvisor, CNN, Condé Nast, Forbes, and the World Travel Awards. The destination also experienced a steady increase in tourist arrivals annually. In 2014, Higgs became the first winner of the Caribbean Travel Award’s Tourism Director of the Year for taking the Turks and Caicos Tourism brand to new heights, helping to lead Ralph Higgs the destination to the best year-overyear improvement in tourist arrivals of Board and our country’s tourism any destination in the Caribbean. through some of its lowest and highest During his tenure at the periods to date. I would like to sincerely Tourist Board, Ralph Higgs steered thank the hardworking and dedicated the organization through several staff of the Tourist metamorphoses, including over Board, successive governments, staffing to understaffing, and over successive Boards of Directors and the funding to insufficient budgets. people of the Turks and Caicos for the However, the Tourist Board and the opportunity to serve. I shall be around destination reinvented itself through a God’s willing, accessible and remain new marketing approach which sought ready to assist where needed,” added the greatest return on investment and Higgs. greater cooperation and collaboration Chairman of the Turks and with private sector partners. Caicos Tourist Board, Don Gardiner, “The fundamentals of TCI commended Higgs’ tenure as Director Tourism are strong. Our natural sites of Tourism, “The blocks Ralph laid and and attractions, while some may the challenges overcame in developing, need a little attention, are in pristine building, and marketing the Turks condition. Our room inventory is and Caicos Islands as a world class first class. Other offerings including destination is now the envy of many culinary and our weekly cultural in the region.” Gardiner continues, extravaganza (Fish Fry) are the envy “Ralph’s contribution as an ambassador of the region. We have never had more has no doubt left an indelible flights from international and regional impression on us all. His leadership, gateways as we do now, and traveling experience and sound judgment will between our Sister Islands has never be an asset to whomever and wherever been easier. Certainly our people have his next journey takes him.” never been more embracing of our The Board of Directors and visitors and our tourism sector,” Higgs Staff of the Turks and Caicos Tourist said. Board express their heartfelt thanks “This is a good time for TCI and gratitude for the many years of Tourism and the future holds as much dedication, hard work and professional promise as we may wish to extract service Higgs has given to the Turks from it. I am pleased and honored and Caicos Tourist Board and the immensely to have led our Tourist tourism industry at large.
ADMINISTRATIVE CIVIL ASSISTANT An experienced Administrative Civil Assistant is required for a firm based in Providenciales. The successful candidate must have at least 5 years experience and must demonstrate experience and knowledge of having dealt with all matters relating to civil practice. Must have excellent communication skills, both written and oral and be capable of production of documents and forms as required. Must have driving license. The applicant must be able to work overtime when required. References will be required. Remuneration based on experience. All applications must be submitted to: Employment Department F Corporate & Management Services Limited 007 Emily House, 1105 Leeward Highway, Providenciales Tel 649-339-6275 Fax 649-941-4777
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Over 80% of Beaches Employees Receive EFR Certifications Over 80% of Beaches Team active participation from their fellow Members are certified in Emergency colleagues. During this 1 day role play First Response to date explained exercise, emergency situations come Training Officials of the resort, giving to life as team members learn varying the All-Inclusive Resort an impressive techniques for dealing with emergency count of 1600 certified members out of situations that may arise for babies, a 1900 staff member team. All team infants, adults and even women members are expected to complete during pregnancy. Assistant Manager of the this course and certification during Training Department Monique the orientation period of their hiring. commented saying Training Department Management Graham Trainee, Julianna Musgrove said “For “Emergency First Response has made the year 2016 alone we have certified a tremendous impact on the Talents 527 persons in Emergency response. of BTC. In that they are all equipped This is something that is important to take on any emergency situations not only for guest safety but individual whether it be on or off the resort. The safety as well, something these team training covers first aid, choking, AED members can take with them wherever use, CPR, Adult child and infant care. We’ve had instances where Talents they go.” The certification is up to actually had to use their skills in real worldwide standards under the life situation, from a choking adult to American Heart Association and Infant CPR.” Emergency First is valid for two years after which The team members are recertified. It is Response courses build amateur executed by the Training Managers rescuer confidence to provide care who are Certified Instructors with the when faced with a medical emergency. AHA, with the use of manikins and Participants learn and practice
HALLMARK TRUST LIMITED Project Implementation Manager This position involves the setup of credit card for large financial companies worldwide. Applicant must have at least a Bachelors Degree in an accredited university with an emphasis on business management. Must have experience and job history in the Micro Lending Industry. Must be knowledgeable in all Microsoft Office programs and have experience in creating presentations in PowerPoint. Must be willing to travel at least 6 months per year for extended periods of time. Pay commensurate with experience. Drop of resume at: Hallmark Trust Limited 1A Courtyard Plaza, Leeward Highway Providenciales
the same patient care techniques and principles used by medical professionals, but at a lay person level. “This training gave me great confidence because it means that I am better able to assist anyone in an emergency situation if need be.” said Front Office Agent Donnell Williams Both Sandals Royal Bahamian and Sandals Emerald Bay are continuing their bid to ensure that as much as 80 percent of their staff are trained to deliver life-saving aide not only to resort guests, but to member of the public who may need assistance. That means more than 1,000 people who can deliver proper CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) machine, and perform the Heimlich on choking victims are moving throughout the Bahamas. “The overarching thing is preparedness,” said Sandals Royal Bahamian’s Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Manager, Donny Johnson. “The whole idea is preparing
you for an emergency because you never know when you will need to utilize the EFR training. When an emergency does present itself you will have the tools and training to handle it.” Mr. Johnson has been training Sandals team members in EFR for 12 years, even before he became EHS manager. He has helped certify more than 3,000 individuals. Now, under his training, team members feel empowered and encouraged to assist in any life-threatening emergency they may happen upon. “I feel very equipped. In the event there is a guest emergency I would know how to handle it,” said Sandals team member Kendra McPhee. “I had to encounter an emergency situation now I would feel comfortable assisting.” Following the practical and theoretical training, team members are required to sit a short exam in order to become certified in EFR. Training is an ongoing process for Sandals’ staff, and EFR training is one of the most crucial classes offered. .
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LOCAL NEWS
PNP launches candidates for the next general elections The Progressive National Party (PNP) launched their candidates for the next General Elections. The event took place on Saturday July 30th at the Headquarters - Progressive House, Airport Road, Providenciales, there are 5 At-large candidates and the dynamic 10 constituency standard-bearers. Electoral District Candidates are: Electoral District 1: Grand Turk North Hon. George Lightbourne, Electoral District 2: Grand Turk South & Salt Cay, Electoral District 3: South Caicos Hon. Ruth Blackman, Electoral District 4: North & Middle Caicos Mr. Mark Fulford, Electoral
District 5: Leeward & Long Bay Hon. Akeirra Missick, Electoral District 6: The Bight Hon. Porsha Stubbs Smith, Electoral District 7: Cheshire Hall Hon. Amanda Missick, Electoral District 8: Blue Hills Ms. Claudine-Ewing-Pratt, Electoral District 9: Five Cays, Mrs. Rachel Taylor and Electoral District 10: Wheeland Mr. Demeko Dean. And All Island Candidates are: Mrs, Sheba Wilson, Rev. John Malcolm, Hon. Ricardo D. Gardiner, Hon. Charles Washington Misick and Hon. Dr. Rufus Washington Ewing. The following are photo highlights from the launch.
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LOCAL NEWS
Western Union opens new location Downtown By Todeline Defralien
On Friday July 29th, GraceKennedy Money Services NEW primary agent for Western Union opened a second Western Union Location at Olympic Plaza (the Building popularly known as 2005 plaza) on Aviation Drive Providenciales. This is the second of six possible Western Union Locations to be opened throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands. Customers can now visit any of our locations to send and receive money from their loved ones from any of Western Union’s over 200
countries and territories. Businessman Robert “Bobbie” Been, is the agent for the new location. Been said, “It’s a great feeling to be one of the owners. I’ve been after Western Union since 2012 when it was under the previous owners and I never gave up. I kept trying and once GK got involved with it I wrote to the guys. I have plans of opening another one if the opportunity presents itself, but currently I will just be here working with this location downtown. We will continue to have our rates as one of the lowest because we have to get out customers back, and in doing
so we will have to continue to have the lowest rates as possible.” Arielle Williams of Grace Kennedy said, “Our objective is to open several Western Union locations throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands and Your Choice TCI which is located on 7th Hospital Road at Quality supermarket was our first location. Now we’re opening here as our second location and we’re getting ready to open one last for Providenciales and once we have three locations here in Provo we’re seeking to branch out into the other islands like North Caicos, Grand Turk, and South Caicos.”
She added that they’re actually getting ready to open up in The Bahamas; so people will be able to send transactions to the Bahamas as well. Western Union is delighted to be able to serve the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands and we look forward to introducing new and exciting products and services in the near future. The opening hours for this new location is 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm on Saturdays, Closed on Sundays. To speak with a GKMS Western Union representative please contact: 1-649-941-5305.
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Open letter from Stephen Walkin to Ralph Higgs
Dear Ralph,
RE: SILVER BAY PROJECT IN HIGH ROCK, NORTH CAICOS At the ground breaking of your project where no actual breaking of the ground was done, except to erect a tent for the couple persons you ferried in from Provo, you publically invited persons to object to your project. I am writing you publically pursuant to your request, however not to object, but to outline what I require of you as the occupier of the neighboring land. A good neighbour would first discuss this matter with his neighbour before he goes to the bank and look for finance, and get the cost estimate to upgrade and then try to include his neighbour in on the project. Particularly in light of the fact, that your grand father and my father
lived like brothers. And our mothers lived like sisters. Shirley Higgs and Amedica Walkin took care of each other, Paul Higgs would have never done to James Walkin what you are seeking to do to me. I understand that you intend to run for office, if this is how you treat your neighbour when you have economic powers. I can only imagine how would you treat your neighbour and the people of North and Middle Caicos if you were to get political powers. You are forcing me out of my home, because the discomfort the purported hotel would bring to me will be unbearable. Imagine having to give up generational land, where my great grand father lived for 85 years, then my grand father live here for 80 years, my father lived here for 83 years and I
have been living here for 54 years. Just thinking about this will keep me up at nights. Your only option, it seems to me is to provide upgrades to my facility which is to the tune of $310k to bring it to short term rental status, and put a dock down by the seaside, with small slips and boardwalk similar to yours. That would allow my guests to be entertained at your purported resort with the nightlife that you would be offering. You were on the TV, asking for anybody who have objections to the project to state so publically, well let it be known to all, that I am not trying to stop your project, but I am simply outlining what I require. It seems like you have a hidden agenda, in asking for persons to state publically their objections. It makes me question
whether you are inviting objections to your project because you are using this as an election gimmick. When you were building your gas station, you never made such public pronouncements, you came to me quietly for my approval as your neighbour, and I signed a letter off giving you the consent you require. Because it is an election gimmick, you didn’t take this same approach. My position is as stated above, now let me hear from you publically the same way you invited me to write to you publically. Yours sincerely Stephen Walkin Resident of High Rock North Caicos Cc: HE The Governor- Mr. Peter Beckingham; Premier Dr. Rufus Ewing and Leader of Opposition Hon. Sharlene Cartwright
Raymond Gardiner High School Joins Kind Traveler To Empower Travelers To Do Good On Tuesday, August 2, 2016 – The Raymond Gardiner High School joins the launch of Kind Traveler, the first 'Give + Get' hotel booking platform that transforms travelers into a financial force that benefits communities, the environment, and animals. Travelers 'give' to a local or global charity; as reward for their donation, they 'get' an exclusive rate to book directly with the world’s best hotels and unique properties. 100% of the donations raised on the Kind Traveler platform go directly to the charities. The Raymond Gardiner High
is pleased to be chosen by COMO Parrot Cay who will encourage guests to send local donations to support our mission. As an organization trying to create a big positive impact on a hyper-local issue, any contributions go a long way in making a difference. “Our win-win platform offers solutions for everyone,” said CEO & Co-Founder Jessica Blotter. “For travelers, they become warriors for good and support hotels that are making a positive impact in the world – while receiving exclusive hotel rates. For hotels, they cultivate new relationships with cause-minded
consumers and take another step choosing with purpose. Kind Traveler, a Public Benefit towards corporate social responsibility. For charities, they receive 100% of Corporation (PBC), is the first digital donations and a new, sustainable 'Give + Get' hotel booking platform to channel for fundraising.” transform travelers into a financial A quality we love about Kind force that benefits the wellbeing of Traveler is its desire to educate. communities, the environment, and According to Phocuswright’s Good animals. Travelers 'give' to a local Travels research study “three of or global charity; as reward for their 10 giving travelers were prompted donation, they 'get' an exclusive rate to volunteer or donate because of to book directly with the world’s best something they read, heard, saw or hotels and unique properties. 100% experienced.” Kind Traveler’s blog of the donations raised on the Kind provides stories that inspire travel Traveler platform go directly to while underscoring the importance of charities giving back, living consciously, and
Hospitality institution is a key ingredient to industry building
Studies, 2-year Associate degree in weeks short courses in cake decorating Hospitality, Tourism or Culinary Arts , mixology, wine appreciation, waitand 2 additional years leading to the staff training and customer service , Another academic year 2016- Bachelors Degree in Hospitality or beginning mid –September 2016. 2017 will soon be upon us at the Tourism Management. The vision of the department Why is it beneficial to is geared towards providing needed TCICC (TCI Community College). The Hospitality department is set attend the TCICC and be part of the training for all levels and fields in to play an integral role in providing Hospitality department? It provides the industry, and not just in TCI. The training, qualifications and skills for the tools for persons seeking to upgrade careers and opportunities are vast and nationals who seek careers in this field. their skills, preparing for promotion or wide from supervisory, managerial to The programme has been in existence, who wish to build a career in this field. sole entrepreneurship. on a small scale, since the inception of And, If you seek to learn or fine tune What have we done to the College in 1994 and today offers your skills or do not have the time for ensure its brand? The staff comprises a 1- year Certificate in Hospitality full time study, then look at our 6-8 educated, well qualified, enthusiastic
By Michelle Hosten
and experienced lecturers who have worked and/or trained in the industry. The department continues to work on creating links for on the-job training at national and regional institutions. In addition, we have advisors who assist in funding, training and on site participation. The end result is a pool of potential employees, trained and capable, enthusiastic and committed to the development of our tourism product.
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The Shore Club is now accepting applications/résumé for the following position. Only highly self-driven & motivated, personable and professional individuals, whom have the desire to serve others, need apply: IT ADMINISTRATOR Duties and Responsibilities •Ensure that the Resort’s technology assets are functioning efficiently, effectively and are properly protected through the daily management of the IT Department and all of its resources. •Responsible for coordinating end-user support including administration, security, installation, configuration and troubleshooting of hardware and software. •Developing and maintaining documentation for operation of the computer systems and software licensing. •Make recommendations for improvements and enhancements to existing systems. •Will be available to provide after-hours error resolution for property systems as needed, including being on call. •Execution of network security, stability and survivability directives. •Manages the Capital Budget process for all system related items. •Maintain Resort’s PCI compliance status and provide quarterly reports to CFO as required. •Plan, coordinate and execute special projects as necessary. •Interacts with Resort Executive Team, Management Team, Staff and Guests to resolve technology related issues and provide guidance on future projects. •Responsible for all data backup and restoration functions. •Maintain documentation of all systems, software and hardware. •Experience in networked computer environment. •Excellent oral and written communications skills in English language. •Knowledge of wireless (wi-fi) systems. •5 years’ experience in a hospitality environment. •Experience with set-up of CCTV cameras. •Verify daily all system interfaces. Starting salary $45,000.00 per annum not including service charge
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
strategic planning, and any horticultural capital projects as needed (i.e, installation of new gardens) •Grows potted plants and nursery stock and maintains records on the growing operation. •Trains and supervises subordinate personnel in greenhouse operations and in the proper methods and techniques of planting ornamental plants. •Trains ground personnel in the techniques of pruning, wound dressing, cavity repair, and the cabling and bracing of trees and shrubs. •Prepares orders for various types of plants and seeds. •Inventories, maps, and labels trees and shrubs on campus for instructional and maintenance purposes. •Preparation of maintenance programs for the control of plant diseases and insects. •Prepares fertilizer programs for various types of plants. •Confers with landscape architect and other personnel in the selection of plants. EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES •Knowledge of the growth, development and protection of plants, and use of plants for food, leisure, sports, social and environmental benefits •An understanding of horticultural plant production systems and how their components are integrated and managed in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner •Thorough knowledge of ornamental horticulture in all phases. •Thorough knowledge of plant propagation and culturation. •Considerable knowledge of the principles of nursery management. •Knowledge of the principles of supervision and management •Knowledge of the elementary principles of landscaping. •Ability to supervise the work of others. •Graduation from an accredited college or university in an appropriate curriculum and considerable experience related to this class of work; or any equivalent combination of training and experience. •Bachelor’s degree in horticulture, botany, natural sciences or a related field •Minimum of ten years’ experience as a professional horticulturist •Minimum of four years’ experience in management position Starting salary $36,000.00 per annum not including service charge
MAINTENANCE MANAGER Duties and responsibilities •Establish goals, measurements and results for the department along with the General Manager. SENIOR HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR •Involvement in the preparation of the Maintenance Operating and Duties and responsibilities Capital budgets. •Ensures maximum compliance and efficiency in the performance of •General operational and preventative maintenance of systems including: Housekeeping staff in guest rooms and surrounding areas Boilers and heating systems; Make up air and HVAC systems; Pool •Carries out the policies and procedures of Housekeeping Departments facilities; and General plumbing issues. Standard Operating •Maintain hotel guest rooms and public areas by performing routine •Offers assistance to guests and owners, initiates corrective action on maintenance jobs and repairs. complaints of cleanliness and service to guest rooms •Troubleshoot and perform minor repairs on heating, cooling and •Assists in and conducts monthly Housekeeping Inventories as required ventilation systems. •Conducts routine guest room and common area inspections. Provides •Troubleshoot and perform minor repairs on plumbing systems, electrical inspections scores and retrains for success systems and appliances. •Assists in and conducts staff scheduling and annual performance •Maintain the hot tub by ensuring a safe chemical balance through evaluations frequent testing. •Maintains inventory and stock controls •Organize, implement and track all maintenance projects for guestrooms •Ensure delivery of service excellence to all guests by monitoring staff and public areas. performance and provides hands-on training and development •Monitor and revise as needed, departmental health & safety tools •Evaluates and updates Executive Housekeeper on staff performance. including training programs, policies and practices. Makes recommendations for appropriate action in the areas of •Ensure a safe work environment is maintained at all times and that all disciplinary and commendation colleagues are committed to working safely. •Maintains quality controls and assurance •Partner with Front Office Manager to ensure safe guest evacuation •Assists in overseeing Laundry Department as required in service, during emergencies (i.e. Fire Alarm). quality, inventory, inspection, scheduling and overall performance •Motivate, train and lead maintenance personnel by personal example Starting wage $11.00 per hour not including service charge and tips. with a philosophy of work conduct, enthusiasm and personal development that leads to maximum performance and job satisfaction. HORTICULTURIST\LANDSCAPING MANAGER •Effective scheduling, vacation planning and department productivity to Duties and responsibilities budget. Provides professional advice on the selection, ordering, planting, and •Effective and timely interaction with all Hotel & Restaurant departments maintenance of trees, shrubs, ground covers, and turf grasses on property. and positively impact guest experience by effectively and efficiently •Plans and designs annual garden plans/planting layouts and perennial resolving maintenance concerns. flower beds. •Effective and timely interaction with HR regarding payroll (i.e. set up •Establishes and maintains high horticultural standards and practices; new hires, etc). providing direction, training and motivation for the horticultural staff, •Occasional maintenance to staff residence as required. interns and volunteers •A positive contributor to the leadership team of the hotel. •Is a hands-on leader, actively working in the daily horticultural tasks in the exterior gardens and greenhouses •Works with garden volunteers/docents developing long-term productive KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES •Prior Maintenance Management and/or supervisory experience within relationships and growing the size of the program overtime a operation equal in size and facilities. •Manages and supports overall plant health and soil nutrition strategies for •Strong communication skills, both written and verbal. Proven ability to all gardens to include sustainable gardening practices and integrated pest motivate and lead employees in a busy, high quality environment. management in the outdoor and indoor gardens •Background in electrical and or plumbing are essential. •Establishes and oversees a systematic plant records policy, including •Good English communication skills (both written & oral). direction of the plant collection policy and design aesthetic in coordination •Ability to respond quickly in a dynamic and changing environment. with The Shore Club’s master plan, mission, and strategies Ability to handle multiple requests in a fast-paced environment. •Coordinates heating and cooling of greenhouses, irrigation systems and •Good training, coaching and mentoring skills are essential. maintenance of horticultural equipment collaboratively with Grounds •Proven experience with budgets and payroll process is essential. and maintenance Starting salary $40,000.00 per annum not including service charge •Responsible for the operational department budgets, budget monitoring, PLEASE NOTE: Shore Club is NOT scheduled to open to the public for business until November 2016. All resumes are subject to screening. Accepted candidates will receive a call or email confirmation with a scheduled time for meeting and required documents for the actual interview. All applicants must have a willing, positive and personable attitude as well as be willing to work long hours, holidays and weekends. Turks & Caicos Islands citizens only need to apply to The Shore Club located on Long Bay Beach, Providenciales or e-mail: careers@theshoreclubtc.com Deadline is August 10, 2016.
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Requirements: •BA/BS Degree or equivalent. •Accounting Designation (CA, CMA, CPA) •At least 10 years post qualification experience. •At least 10 years management/supervisory experience at a property of similar size and quality. •Experience in Condo Hotel environment, including STRATA Association set up. •Extensive Resort pre-opening and renovations experience. •Ability to liaise with investors at high level. •Advanced knowledge and skills in computer systems, most specifically, Excel, AccPac, Micros, MXP Purchasing System QuickBooks, Opera and Visual One. •Complete understanding of Executive Committee level functions. •Sound knowledge of both European and American Accounting Plans. •Solid training in all areas of Accounting from A/P, A/R, General Ledger, Credit, Collections, Audit, Inventory control, Payroll, Budgeting, Costing, P&L preparation and analysis, etc. •Ability to inspire, develop and train people for promotion. Responsibilities: •Overseeing the overall finance departments of multiple properties/ companies including outside contracts within the organization •Assisting executive management, ownership and related associations with the production of financial reports, detailed analysis and business outlook. •Directing departments in the preparation and consolidation of financial budgets and projections. •Prepare, present and provide interpretation of operational reports as they impact group business finances. •Developing and maintaining chart of accounts and master lists. •Actively involved in yield management and revenue enhancement. •Coordinating internal and external audits. POOL AND BEACH ATTENDANT •Must be able to work in all outdoor element, rain, sun, etc. as required •Must be able to work long hours on feet •Must be able to lift 30lbs or more •Must know how to swim •Must be trained and certified in CPR, First Aid. •Life guard experience is a plus •Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts •Creating a luxury guest experience through delivery of high level service for all pool and beach services Starting salary $6.50 per hour not including service charge. COOK •Must have previously worked as a line cook for a minimum of 1 year in similar operation pepa •Must be able to “prep” food products, using standardized food preparation techniques and learn menus, recipes, preparation and presentation •Acceptable knife skills •Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts •Prepare all orders turned in by wait-staff using Resort’s standard recipes with focus on consistency while ensuring all orders are cooked quickly and according to order •Maintain the work area, including all counter tops, utensils, equipment, and refrigeration in a clean and sanitary condition Starting salary $7.00 per hour, not including service charge. BARTENDER Requirements: •Must have 3 years’ experience as a bartender in 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. •Maintain proper and adequate set-up 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. •Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Starting wage $7.00 per hour not including service charge and tips.
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POOL & BEACH SUPERVISOR Responsibilities: •Oversees and maintain complete safety in and around pool and beach areas •Follows operating standards in accordance to TCI laws and hotel procedures on job duties and life-safety •Maintains proper levels of service and equipment furniture and maintenance •Assist in the conducting of guest activities in the pool areas •Monitor entire cleaning operations for the cleanliness, health and sanitation of the pools and surrounding area •Assist in every way possible to assure proper customer service is being upheld. •Enforces pool and beach sanitation and safety rules and requirements •Supervises pool and beach areas for safety and customer service •Monitors and upholds guest areas (No Solicitation policy is enforced and facilities for registered hotel guests only) •Train new employees on proper protocol and customer service •Ensures all furniture setting are inline, organized and set to hotel resort standards •Complete all tasks for the day and oversee all duties/projects in a timely fashion •Ensure safety precautions are followed in pool area and identify possible safety hazards and reports to management •Monitor supplies and reports all damaged furniture to management •Perform all other duties as assigned by the Property Manager Requirements: •Must have 5 years’ experience in luxury resort in same capacity •High School Diploma •Must have prior pool/beach supervisory experience •Life-safety training and certification CPR, AED, First Aid, Water Safety required •Being an excellent swimmer is required period certification may be required •Working with Pool Chemicals is required •Hands on knowledge of non-motorized sports equipment set-up and handling is required •Must be able to stand and work outdoors for an extended period of time •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 detailed oriented. Starting wage $8.00 per hour not including service charge and tips.
HUMAN RESOURCE ADMINISTRATOR RESERVATIONS/SALES AGENTS SECURITY OFFICERS SECURITY SUPERVISOR FRONT OFFICE SUPERVISOR NIGHT & DUTY MANAGER NIGHT AUDITOR ASSISTANT RESTAURANT MANAGER FOOD & BEVERAGE SUPERVISOR ACCOUNTING(Various positions) CHEFS(Various positions) RETAIL SUPERVISOR HOUSEKEEPING MANAGER SPA THERAPIST/ATTENDANTS MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN LINE POSITIONS For the below line staff positions, resort experience is an asset but not a requirement. Starting wage $6.25 per hour not including service charge and tips.
GROUNDSMEN LABOURER HOUSEMAN ROOM ATTENDANTS LAUNDRY ATTENDANTS DISPATCHERS STEWARDS PBX OPERATOR PAINTER FRONT OFFICE AGENTS SERVERs PUBLIC AREA ATTENDANT
HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR •Must have 5 years’ experience in luxury resort in same capacity •Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Starting wage $9.00 per hour not including service charge and tips. PLEASE NOTE: Shore Club is NOT scheduled to open to the public for business until November 2016. All resumes are subject to screening. Accepted candidates will receive a call or email confirmation with a scheduled time for meeting and required documents for the actual interview. All applicants must have a willing, positive and personable attitude as well as be willing to work long hours, holidays and weekends. Turks & Caicos Islands citizens only need to apply to The Shore Club located on Long Bay Beach, Providenciales or e-mail: careers@theshoreclubtc.com Deadline is August 10, 2016.
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
•Must have at least 5 years’ experience as a Marble Floor Crystallizing Specialist •Must have at least 5 years’ experience handling heavy scrubbing/ crystallizing machines •Wide knowledge of floor crystallizing chemicals. •Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned not listed in this job description.
Seven Stars Resort & Spa is seeking a suitably qualified candidate to fill the position outlined below. The ideal candidate must possess 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) and be fluent in at least one European language. CHEF DE PARTIE As Chef De Partie you will be answering directly to the senior members of the team. You should be a proven Chef De Partie with good skills and knowledge of kitchen operations. Salary for this position $1,400.00 and is based on previous experience and qualifications. •Minimum of 2 years’ experience in high end restaurant operation •Hospitality or Culinary Arts qualification is desirable. •Food hygiene certificate required •Ability to work under pressure •Produces food of high quality according to standard recipes •Assists with the preparation, presentation, decoration and storage of the general dishes •Prepares Regional Dishes appropriate to the hotel location and guest mix. •Communicates to his/her superior any difficulties, guest or internal customer comment and other relevant information •Prepares in advance food, beverage, material and equipment needed for the service •Responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and orderliness of the assigned areas displaying best practice of Health & Safety •Provides direction to the Kitchen helpers, Interns and Stewards •In the absence of the CDC, Sous Chef, step in as to expedite food orders and facilitate fast and efficient flow of service. •Ensure proper food labels, food storage flow, practice proper hygiene and sanitation and stock rotation as first in first out. •Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned not listed in this job description. POOL & BEACH MANAGER The Pool and Beach Manager will direct and organize the activities of the Pool & Beach department to maintain the high standards of the Pool & Beach and Food and Beverage quality and to meet the daily needs of the operation. Salary range for this position $3,500.00 and is based on previous experience and qualifications. Minimum Requirements: •Must be knowledgeable on Pool & Beach services. •Must have a broad swimming knowledge as well as an excellent swimmer. •Excellent Customer service skills. •Clear concise written and verbal communication skills in English. •Must be proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel. •Must have excellent organizational, interpersonal and administrative skills and excellent attention to detail. •Ability to meet deadlines, work under pressure and work independently. •Plan and directs the functions of administration and planning of the Pool & Beach department. •Adherence to establish policies, standards and procedures are required at all times in order to achieve high levels of customer satisfaction, quality service, compliance with corporate policies and procedures. •Maintain fast, accurate service, positive guest relations, and ensure products are consistent with company quality standards. •Ensure company safety and security policy are met. •Excellent time management skills required. Ability to handle multiple tasks without losing focus on priorities. •Strong organizational, analytical, communication and leadership skills required. •Impeccable service standards and attention to detail. •Ability to work in a fast paced, deadline driven environment. •Must have strong and effective leadership skills. •Candidate must be comfortable with all levels of employees and have the ability to drive positive program change. •Ability to train and develop others required. •Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned not listed in this job description. In addition, we are currently enlisting for the following positions which are currently held by work permit holders. FLOOR CRYSTALLIZING SPECIALIST The ideal candidate must possess luxury resort experience, outgoing and friendly demeanor with a strong understanding of floor crystallizing. Salary $6.31 per hour
STOCK CONTROLLER The Stock controller performs any combination of the following tasks to compile records concerned with ordering, receiving, storing, issuing, and shipping materials, supplies, and equipment: Compiles data from sources, such as contracts, purchase orders, invoices, requisitions, and accounting reports and writes, types, or enters information into computer to maintain inventory, purchasing, shipping, or other records. Salary is $1,750 monthly and is based on experience and qualification. Essential Duties: •Keeps back order file in established sequence and releases back orders for issue or shipment as stock becomes available. •Compiles stock control records and information, such as consumption rate, characteristics of items in storage, and current market conditions, to determine stock supply and need for replenishment. •Knowledge of Excel is essential. •Ability to handle heavy lifting. •Prepares requisitions, orders, or other documents for purchasing or requisitioning new or additional stock items. •Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned not listed in this job description. LANDSCAPING MANAGER The Landscaping Manager plans and coordinates the work activates of the landscaping department, and oversees gardening and greenhouse operations, insect control, and ground repairs. Salary for this position $3,000.00 monthly and is based on experience and qualification. Essential Duties: •Work with resort management to develop working sketches for the refurbishment, improvement or expansion of landscaped areas. •Plan, schedule, assign and supervise all landscaping activities, including but not limited to seeding, weeding, cultivating and general care of resort grounds. •Plan and supervise cultivation, pruning, spraying, and transplanting of a wide variety of shrubs and trees. •Prepare requisitions and distribute materials and equipment for grounds maintenance work. •Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned not listed in this job description. HOUSEKEEPING MANAGER The Housekeeping manager will be responsible for planning, organizing, and developing of the overall operation of the housekeeping department in accordance with standards and guidelines along with assuring the highest degree of quality guest care is maintained at all times. In this role, the manager will also responsible for staffing, scheduling, training and developing staff. Salary for this position range at $3,000.00 monthly and based on experience and qualification Essential Duties: •Manage the daily activities of the Housekeeping department to include appropriate cleaning of all guest suites, offices, concourses, seating areas, washrooms, restaurants, concession stands and all public spaces. •Planning, organizing and directing team members to ensure the highest degree of guest satisfaction. •Daily supervision of the housekeeping staff, including the day, event and post-event. •Daily supervision of the grounds keeping staff, including the day, event and post-event •Purchase, re-order and maintain housekeeping supplies and inventory. •Conduct pre-event inspections of all rooms, concourses, clubs, seating areas and public areas prior gate opening for every event held at the hotel. •Schedule and train all new housekeeping staff members. •Maintain the housekeeping budget, providing billing summaries and expenses for all pre and post events. •Uphold the highest standards of cleanliness, safety, and conduct. •Knowledge of safety standards within Housekeeping department. •Determines and maintains the department work schedule used to notify staff of upcoming events and ensure proper preparation and staffing for each event. •Ensures the proper maintenance of all equipment; makes arrangements for repair and/or replacement of used and damaged equipment. •Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned not listed in this job description. SECURITY GUARDS The areas of responsibility for this position include the protection and safety of property assets, employees, guests, accident and fire prevention and response. The ideal candidate must exemplify excellent customer service and create a positive atmosphere for guests and employees. Salary $6.31 per hour. There are new positions available and some positions are held by work permit holders.
Candidates should apply to Seven Stars Resort & Spa, Grace Bay Road, Providenciales via e-mail at hr@sevenstarsgracebay.com for consideration or should leave CV’s at the security building for the attention of HR. Prospective applicants who are Islanders kindly send copies of your application to the board. Application deadline: August 19, 2016. •ONLY CANDIDATES MEETING ABOVE REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS WILL BE CONTACTED.
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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qualifications. The Assistant Front of House Manager role is an important function for the resort and it provides 24-hour coverage for our guests. The selected individual will assist with ensuring the smooth operation of the Front of House. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: •Minimum 8 years management experience with international 5 star properties •Working knowledge of English, French and Spanish •Control of staffing levels to reflect changes required for seasonal fluctuations •Experience in managing all Front Office functions. •Must be effective in handling problems in the workplace, anticipating, identifying, preventing and solving problems as necessary.
Minimum Requirements: •Ex-Military with Officer Rank experience •Be proficient in unarmed combat techniques •Highly trained in security procedures •First Aid training is preferable •Ability to communicate effectively •Able to work flexible hours holidays, weekends, nights and 12 hour shifts •Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned not listed in this job description.
DIRECTOR OF RESTAURANT & BAR The Director of Restaurant and Bar will ensure that service standards are met, and meeting or exceeding budgets as set. The candidate must have experience in a 5 star Hotel Food and Beverage Department and experience in managing a fine dining restaurant. Salary range is $4,000.00 and is based on experience and qualifications.
AIR-CONDITIONING ENGINEER Qualification and knowledge of electrical and air conditioning is essential for this position: Salary range is $2,000.00 monthly and is based on previous experience and qualifications. •Minimum of 5 years’ experience with a full service hotel and a condo hotel resort property minimum of 100 rooms. •Technical certificate in heating and air conditioning components •Ability to lift 50lbs •Self-starter with the ability to implement and carry out role with little or no supervision •Ability to install, repair and maintain air conditioning units •Ability to install, repair and maintain refrigeration components •Possess extensive experience in preventative maintenance techniques •Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned not listed in this job description.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: •To oversee the presentations and service of all Food and Beverage products to ensure highest standard of quality at all times. •To work closely with the Food and Beverage Director and the Executive Chef. •Ensure proper handling, cleaning and sanitation of equipment, meeting Resorts Health and Safety standards. •Serves as a role model to demonstrate appropriate behaviors. •Control labor and operating costs through effective scheduling, budgeting, purchasing decisions, and inventory control while focusing on creative revenue generation solutions to maximize profit. •The ability to be visible in the operation, recognize and maintain relationships with regular guests. •Communicate with employees and managers to ensure operational needs are met as well as attend regular operational meetings to ensure effective coordination and cooperation between departments. •Maintains an up to date working knowledge of all resort amenities as well as any special events.
ASSISTANT FRONT OF HOUSE MANAGER Salary range is $3,500.00 monthly and is based on experience and
Candidates should apply to Seven Stars Resort & Spa, Grace Bay Road, Providenciales via e-mail at hr@sevenstarsgracebay.com for consideration or should leave CV’s at the security building for the attention of HR. Prospective applicants who are Islanders kindly send copies of your application to the board. Application deadline: August 19, 2016. •ONLY CANDIDATES MEETING ABOVE REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS WILL BE CONTACTED.
OASIS DIVERS
ST. PAUL’S METHODIST COLLEGE HOME OF THE SAINTS – A PLACE WHERE EVERY CHILD IS SPECIAL P. O. BOX F 40897 - FREEPORT, BAHAMAS PRINCIPAL: Mrs. Lin Glinton
Assistant Manager
Ø Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in Tour Operations in a service oriented business.
Ø C.P.R. and First Aid Ø Minimum Dive master certification Ø Computer Literate Responsible for assisting the Manager in ensuring that the operational needs of all the tours, locations and employees are met. Assisting to ensures that all the necessary policies and procedures are executed and adhered to by all staff and relevant personnel; helps maximize the use of the available resources of the company, ensures that maintenance and repair schedules are established and adhered to; implements control measures to ensure efficient operations and safety standards, assists in ensuring regulatory compliance, works within prescribed budgets; helps minimizes costs; exercises effective crisis management strategies and performs all other related functions as required from time to time.
ST. PAUL’S METHODIST COLLEGE in Freeport, Grand Bahama, Bahamas, is accepting applications for teachers in the following areas for the 2016-2017 School Year: preparing students
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
Administrative Assistant
TECHNICAL DRAWING, GRAPHICAL COMMUNICATIONS & ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION - To teach Technical Drawing & Graphical Communications to Grades 7 – 12 in preparing them for BJC and BGCSE, and Electrical Installation to Grades 10 – 12.
• Two years’ experience in a related position • Computer literate and Basic accounting background • Certificate in Office Procedures. • Ability to speak and write English well. To provide administrative support to the Manager and Directors via the accurate organization, compiling, filing and recording of data electronically and manually, and assisting with all other basic office needs.
RELIGION, SOCIAL STUDIES AND GEOGRAPHY - To teach Grades 7 – 12. Experience needed in preparing students for BJC and BGCSE. All applicants must hold a degree from an accredited University and a Teacher’s Certificate with teaching experiences. Two Letters of Reference, certified copies of degrees and certificates, proof of teaching experience and a Passport size photo must accompany application.
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
STEWARD/GUEST SERVICES
-
Have at least 5 years’ experience in the hospitality and tourism industry. Competent in Microsoft Computer software with accounting expertise and knowledge in Quickbooks and other accounting software. - Possess the ability to remain calm in a high stress environment - Be well spoken with English as primary language and at least 25 years old - 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 Suitable candidates that do not meet the above requirements may, at the sole discretion of the Company’s management team, may be eligible to benefit if they demonstrate a clear willingness to embrace the Company’s in-house training initiatives and established standard operating policies and procedures. Preference will be given to documented Turks and Caicos Islanders. Preference will be given to documented Turks and Caicos Islanders
A commitment to the values of Methodist School Education is expected of teachers. Only those persons who have no difficulty with the Methodist beliefs and teaching need apply. Please submit applications to:
is seeking applications from suitably qualified candidates for the
following positions. The successful applicants must:
25th July, 2016
BIOLOGY & CHEMISTRY - To teach Grades 10 – 12 for BGCSE and SAT EXAMINATIONS.
lcglinton@gmail.com
Sincerely ST. PAUL’S METHODIST COLLEGE Lin Glinton Principal
Written applications only and accompanying CVs/resumes must be addressed to the Manager at the following address: Cee’s Plaza, Suite No. 1 OASIS DIVING, LTD. Church Folly c/o EPIC Corporate & Consultancy Services Ltd. PO Box 86 Phone: 649-946-1128 Grand Turk Fax: 649-946-1128 Email: oasisdiv@tciway.tc Turks & Caicos Islands
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
LOCAL NEWS
Governor remembers the crimes against Mary Prince;describes modern day slavery across the globe
Governor Peter Beckingham
The Governor Peter Beckingham described the account by a slave on Grand Turk, Mary Prince, as one of the most significant events involving Turks and Caicos, in his address at the Emancipation day service at St. Thomas Church, Grand Turk on Monday 1 August. The Governor stated: “Mary Prince’s description of her shocking treatment on Grand Turk for nearly ten years as a salt worker, had a major impact on attempts to ban slavery in the UK, Europe and the United States. Her account repays rereading for its moving impact and descriptions of what was one of the worse crimes committed against human beings. “But sadly, despite the end of slavery from Africa to the Americas, the world still permits an horrendous amount of “Modern Day
Slavery” across numerous countries working in brothels, on construction and continents” the Governor sites, nail bars, cannabis farms and continued. “There are estimates in agriculture. The Governor concluded: that there are still as many as 45M people affected by one sort of “TCI has of course a far smaller slavery or another, ranging from population, but I hope that anyone the sea industry, where thousands who has any concerns about modern of workers are impelled to work in day slavery here will alert the dreadful conditions, especially in Human Rights Commission or the Asia, to the sex exploitation industry, Police Force. It would be an injustice common in hundreds of countries, to Mary Prince to allow her memory and awful practice of forced begging, to be scarred by the continuation of especially among children, which I practices outlawed over 200 years ago.” have certainly witnessed firsthand. “Regrettably, the UK is still The Governor ended by not immune from some of these reading a passage from Mary Prince’s practices” , the Governor said “and book, which he said he had first read our new Prime Minister Theresa in Bermuda earlier this year: of her May announced this weekend a new slave master she says: “nothing could campaign to dry and drive out modern touch his hard heart – neither sighs, day slavery from Britain, where nor tears, nor prayers, nor streaming there are estimates of over 10,000 blood: he was deaf to our cries, and people affected. These are people careless of our sufferings.”
Damian Wilson Announces “At Large” Candidacy SEEKS TO IDENTIFY THE FOLLOWING PERSONS:
Thursday, July 28th, 2016 – Damian Wilson, young dynamic local professional has announced his candidacy as an independent ‘At Large’. When asked why he decided to run in this upcoming general election Wilson said: “I believe that God has placed a vision and a desire in my heart that I cannot continue to ignore. As a Turks & Caicos Islander, I have watched all my life as politicians have constantly and consistently short changed our people. With all that’s going on in our beloved country, I feel that I can no longer sit on the side lines, but I must challenge the established status quo that you have to have blind allegiance to political parties to move ahead in our society, that we cannot unite as a people because of our political differences, that no one truly cares about the people of the TCI.” “It is often only the voices of the politically elite that can be heard in our society and it is time that the voices of ordinary hard working Turks & Caicos Islanders be heard. It is time that the political ideologies and philosophies that have kept us apart as a people be challenged and changed. The youth are tired of hearing that they are the future because in reality they are the present, they exist today and their needs have to be met today
in order for them to have a tomorrow,” Wilson said. Wilson has launch his bid to be an elected All Island Candidate by releasing a campaign launch video via social media. The video has gain much traction, bringing the desire attention to the start of his campaign. Damian Wilson is currently the Marketing Communication Executive at Digicel TCI. He has previously been the host of Radio Turks & Caicos’ ‘Good Morning Show’ for six years. Damian has been a part of several local service groups and organizations throughout the TCI, including a member of and once national president of Rap Port TCI (the youth arm of TCIG’s HIV Prevention Programme, a member of the TCI Red Cross; he has also served on various national youth communities, as well as working with the Youth Department on various youth initiatives. END. Contact: Damian Wilson All Island Candidate votedwilson@gmail.com (649) 332-5152 or 342-3663
STILT WALKER • MASCOT STORE CLERK • STORE KEEPER • STORE PORTER DINING ROOM & RESTAURANT CAPTAIN BARTENDER • BARBACK KITCHEN HELPER • COOKS • ASSISTANT COOKS RETAIL MANAGER • ACCOUNTING CLERK SERVERS EXECUTIVE CHEF • SOUS CHEF ACCOUNTS SUPERVISOR HOST/ HOSTESS HOUSEKEEPERS (BUSSERS) & RUNNERS GENERAL MANAGER/RESIDENT MANAGER PERSON MUST BE ABLE TO WORK LONG HOURS HOLIDAYS AND WEEKENDS AND BE WILLING TO WORK AS PART OF A TEAM.
SUBMIT APPLICATIONS ACCOMPANIED BY A RESUME TO THE HUMAN RESOURCE DEPARTMENT AT MSPENCE@MARGARITAVILLECARIBBEAN.COM OR BY FAXING TO 649-946-1514 APPLICATIONS CLOSE ON 19TH AUGUST 2016 WHILE WE THANK EVERY APPLICANT FOR THEIR INTEREST IN MARGARITAVILLE GRAND TURK O NLY SHORT-LISTED PERSONS WILL BE CONTACTED. BELONGERS WILL BE GIVEN PREFERENCE
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LOCAL NEWS
Global United Fellowship Women’s Ministry Launched G
lobal United Fellowship Women’s Ministry launched last week Sunday July 24th, 2016 at the Healing Waters Ministry in Blue Hills. The launch saw the attendance of many
women in the community. The night was filled with fun, laughter, games and giveaways for everyone who came out to support the event. Global United Fellowship Women’s Ministry mandate is
combating human trafficking and saying “No violence against women.” The following are photo highlights of t launch.
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LOCAL NEWS
to
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Congratulations Mrs. Sonia Williams was recently
promoted to Manager of Executive Services within the Executive Services Division, effective May 1, 2016. Mrs. Williams’s new role will require her to
provide a wide range of executive support related duties while ensuring that effective communication is maintained between the office of the CEO and the Executive Team, Internal Departments, Fortis Inc, the Turks and Caicos
Government and other external parties. Mrs. Williams joined the company in 2008 as a Human Resources Officer.
Sonia Williams: Promoted to: Manager Executive Services
Mr. Daylon Joseph recently
Daylon Joseph: Promoted to: Manager T&D Lines
Mr. Avi Adams was
promoted to Human Resources Manager effective June 22, 2016. In his new role, Mr. Adams will guide and manage the overall provision of human resources services programs and policies including the recruitment, performance management benefits, compensation, policy
expand his knowledge of the industry and enhance his engineering skills. In returned from a one-year his new role as Manager, secondment and since Mr. Joseph will provide has been promoted to technical leadership for all Manager of T&D Lines line operation personnel effective July 1, 2016. The and contractors during secondment gave Mr. line construction, Joseph the opportunity to maintenance, and other experience work operational functions, environments across provide technical several Fortis subsidiaries assistance for planned based in Canada. This distribution, transmission included Fortis Alberta, and substation projects, FortisBC, and and assist with revising Newfoundland Power. the distribution standards, The purpose was to standard work method
development, employee relations, and improvement systems. As a member of the management team, Mr. Adams will successfully implement the organization’s vision, mission, and values and protect the interest of the employees and the company in accordance with HR policies, government laws, and
regulations. Mr. Adams brings a wealth of experience in finance and management and has served as a member of the Company’s Investors In People (IIP) Advocate Group, which was instrumental in ensuring the recent IIP accreditation. Mr. Adams joined the FortisTCI Team in March 2008.
Mr. David Laing
Heber David Laing Promoted to: Director EHS & Line Operations
was recently promoted to Director of Environment, Health and Safety and Lines Operations, within the Transmission and Distribution Division. This became effective May 1, 2016. As Director, Mr. Laing assumes leadership responsibility for the Environmental Health and Safety
procedures, and safety practices. Mr. Joseph will also lead special projects and be responsible for ensuring that all customer generated services such as connections, line extensions, line upgrades and area lighting are completed as designed and on schedule. Mr. Joseph joined the Company in 1997 as a Meter Reader and is also a former FortisTCI Engineering Scholarship recipient.
Avi Adams:
Department, and will direct the Fleet Services and Line Operations while providing technical assistance in the planning of distribution, transmission and substation projects. Mr. Laing joined the FortisTCI Team in 2012 bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience having had over 20 years of service
Promoted to: Manager Human Resources
with Fortis subsidiary Newfoundland Power. His experience in job planning, risk management, and safety compliance is considered an asset in ensuring that all transportation, environmental health, and construction projects are completed in a safe and efficient manner.
LEADING TODAY. INVESTING IN TOMORROW.
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Kavin Ewing: Lineman Promoted to: Lineman Foreman
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Robyn Hinds: HR Officer Promoted to: Senior HR Officer
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Kerwin Arthur: Junior Plant Operator Promoted to: Senior Plant Operator
“As the electric utility industry continues to evolve by way of emerging technologies and increased consumer demands, it is important that FortisTCI hires and retain qualified, well-rounded employees. FortisTCI is one of the leading energy companies today because we know that it takes great people to operate a great business. I am pleased to take this opportunity to congratulate members of our team promoted this year within the company. We thank each of you for your continuous hard work and dedication and wish you well in your new roles.” –Ruth Forbes, Vice President of Finance, Human Resources, Information Technology & CFO
Garret Jones: ERP Technical Support Promoted to: Technological Project Coordinator
Mary Capisanan: Financial Accountant Promoted to: Senior Financial Accountant
Richard Gibbs: Financial Accountant Promoted to: Senior Financial Accountant
www.fortistci.com | 649-946-4313 | 1030 Leeward HWY, Providenciales, TCI
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HEALTHY
LIFESTYLE
How a Caribbean island became prime source of U.S. Zika cases
An edes aegypti mosquito is seen inside a test tube as part of a research on preventing the spread of the Zika virus and other mosquito-borne diseases at a control and prevention center in Guadalupe, neighboring Monterrey, Mexico, March 8, 2016 More than 1,400 Americans contracted transmission for Zika infection,” the department Zika while traveling outside the U.S. this year said in a statement. “The data we have released and a Caribbean-island nation is one of the top simply reflects New York City’s demographics and destinations where they caught the virus. travel patterns.” Visitors to the Dominican Republic People who travel outside the U.S. to visit family account for more than a fifth of the confirmed Zika tend to make longer visits and often stay in cases in the U.S. through mid-July, according to residential locations, instead of “more sanitized data from state health departments. New York, areas made for tourists,” and that may increase Florida and California alone tally 304 cases linked their chances of getting bitten by a Zika-infected to the country, the data show. mosquito, Barker said. As Florida officials investigate what may be the Travel-related Zika cases are a function first non-travel-associated cases of Zika infection of both travel volume and how active the virus in the U.S., Kaiser Health News looked more is in countries being visited, according to Barker. deeply into the origins of the 1,404 travel-related “When there is a high level of both, that is where cases reported by all states to the Centers for you have the most cases,” he said. Disease Control and Prevention. Knowing which countries account for For most people, Zika causes flu-like the most Zika travel cases helps drive public symptoms. Pregnant women are considered education efforts, said Vicki Kramer, chief of the especially at risk of the threat because Zika can vector-borne disease section at the California cause severe birth defects, such as microcephaly. Department of Public Health. The CDC does not break out the cases it As in New York City and Florida, California’s tracks by country of origin — only by the infected Zika statistics are also linked to immigrant person’s state of residency. It said in June that populations there. Of California’s 77 cases, the 48 percent of the travel-associated cases for all of greatest numbers resulted from travel to El 2015 and through May of this year originated in Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala, all countries the Caribbean, 26 percent in Central America and where state residents go to see family and often 23 percent in South America. The cases numbered make extended visits, Kramer said. 591 at that time. New York City’s Health Department Data from the four health departments said it has done “extensive outreach” to local that have reported more than half of the national communities with strong ties to countries where case total — New York state, New York City, Zika is active. Florida and California — provide additional detail. “These data could mean that Dominican New More people who visited the Dominican Republic Yorkers are paying attention and testing more in 2016 returned with Zika than did U.S. residents than other groups, which, in a way, is encouraging who traveled to Puerto Rico, Colombia, Jamaica, for us,” a statement from the department said. El Salvador, Haiti, Guyana and Venezuela With a population of about 10 million, combined, the four departments’ figures show. the Dominican Republic shares the island of What’s the explanation? In part, it reflects travel Hispaniola with Haiti. patterns between people living in the U.S. with Comparing U.S. data with a dataset from an family members in the Caribbean nation, public international public health group indicates many health officials say. more American visitors to the Dominican Republic “It’s not really tourists going back and have contracted Zika than residents of the island. forth,” said Chris Barker, a researcher in the The Pan American Health Organization reports School of Veterinary Medicine’s Department of 101 locally acquired cases there. Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology at the Brazil’s cases — 64,311 in total — account University of California, Davis. for almost 80 percent of the Zika infections in the Dominican Republic immigrants are Western Hemisphere through July 14, according the fifth-largest Hispanic group in the United to the organization. The country is so vast that States, numbering 960,000 in 2012, according infections are more spread out than in other areas to the Migration Policy Institute. Their highest of Central and Latin America, Barker said. population concentrations are in New York, New Public health sources for Zika statistics Jersey and Florida. Dominicans comprise New for the same country can vary. Puerto Rico’s tally is York City’s largest Hispanic group and “have a 2,162 on the Pan American Health Organization’s significant travel exchange with the Dominican site. The CDC reports 2,843 locally acquired cases. Republic,” according to the city’s health But among American travelers to both Brazil and department. Puerto Rico, the numbers appear to be far smaller, It counts 207 travel-associated cases according to KHN’s analysis. linked to the republic, followed by 27 to Puerto Those figures show 80 travel-related cases Rico and 20 to Jamaica.“Dominicans, Puerto linked to Puerto Rico and six to Brazil. Colombia Ricans and Guyanese do not have a higher risk of was at 46 and El Salvador at 31.
Ovarian cancer risk nearly doubles in women who douche Women who reported douching almost doubled their risk of developing ovarian cancer, a national U.S. study shows. Prior studies have linked douching or vaginal washing with a device, to yeast infections, pelvic inflammatory disease and ectopic pregnancies. Researchers have also found associations between douching and cervical cancer, reduced fertility, HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. But the new National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences study is the first to tie cancer of the ovaries to the procedure routinely practiced by millions of American women. Joelle Brown, an epidemiology professor at the University of California, San Francisco said that although she knew about other health problems associated with douching, the link between douching and ovarian cancer took her by surprise. “While most doctors and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists strongly recommend that women do not douche, many women continue to douche because they falsely perceive douching to have positive health benefits, such as increased cleanliness,” she told Reuters Health by email. Brown was not involved in the current study. Interventions to encourage women not to douche are needed, she said. Ovarian cancer is known as “the silent killer” because women often experience no symptoms until the disease has progressed to an advanced stage. An estimated 20,000 American women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer and about 14,500 die from it annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The new analysis in the journal Epidemiology followed more than 41,000 women throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico since 2003 as part of the Sister Study. Participants were 35 to 74 years old, and each had a sister who had been diagnosed with breast cancer. The subjects were free of breast and ovarian cancer when they enrolled in the study. By July 2014, researchers counted 154 cases of ovarian cancer among participants. Women who reported douching during the year before entering the study nearly doubled their risk of ovarian cancer, the study found. The link between douching and ovarian cancer was even stronger when the authors looked only at women who didn’t have breast-cancer genes in their family. No study had ever before examined a possible relationship between douching and ovarian cancer, senior author Clarice Weinberg said in a telephone interview. She is deputy chief of the biostatistics and computational biology branch at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. “There are a number of health reasons not to douche, and I can’t think of any reason to do it,” she said. Vaginas naturally clean themselves, and squirting cleansers or other mixtures inside the canal only interferes with nature’s balance. Douching can cause an overgrowth of harmful bacteria, lead to yeast infections, and push bacteria up into the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries, according to the Office on Women’s Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Nevertheless, one quarter of women between the ages of 15 and 44 douche, HHS says.Brown, who led a 2016 study published in PLoS One that examined women’s motivations for douching, said she has long been fascinated by the display of so-called feminine hygiene products lining drugstore shelves.“In most pharmacies you can find entire aisles dedicated to vaginal douches, suppositories and gels that are meant to make your vagina smell like a tropical splash or a cookie,” she said. Women douched as far back as 1500 B.C., when an Egyptian papyrus recommended intravaginal washing with garlic and wine to treat menstrual disorders. American women once douched with Lysol, and some mistook the toilet bowl disinfectant for birth control. Women often learn to douche from their mothers, Brown’s study found. They do so because they see douching as a necessary part of good hygiene, to prepare for sex, to clean up after sex and at the urging of their male partners.
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This position is currently held by an expatriate worker Qualified Islanders need only to apply copying applications to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range: $55,000 - $60,000 per annum plus Maximum 10% bonus at the discretion of the Board of Directors
OPEN JOB POSITION DATE OPEN: July 4, 2016 START DATE: ASAP POSITION: Housekeeping Supervisor Requirements: •Minimum 3 years’ experience in a supervisor role or higher •Ability to work on own initiative etc. •Ability to work under pressure and resolve problems •Excellent attention to detail •Committed to providing exceptional customer service •Ability to motivate a team. Responsibilities: •Assigns housekeepers and housemen their duties and inspects work to ensure that it is done to the standards of cleanliness. •Investigates complaints regarding housekeeping service and equipment, and takes corrective action. •Obtains list of rooms to be cleaned immediately and list of prospective check-outs or discharges to prepare work assignments. •Assists with coordinating work activities among departments. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker Qualified Islanders need only to apply copying applications to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range: $20,000 - $25,000 per annum DATE OPEN: July 4, 2016 START DATE: ASAP POSITION: Cook Job Overview: A Line Cook’s major responsibility is to prepare food, help the kitchen workers in the preparation of food items and set up allocated stations for menu, as instructed by Chef and compliant with standards. They also arrange, prepare and break down the stations while maintaining the uppermost hygienic standards. Shifts vary. Full time. Weekend and holiday work may be required.
DATE OPEN: July 18, 2016 START DATE: ASAP POSITION: Executive Chef Job Overview: The executive chef will train and manage kitchen personnel and supervise/coordinate all related culinary activities; estimate food consumption and requisition or purchase food; select and develop recipes; standardize production recipes to ensure consistent quality; establish presentation technique and quality standards; plan and price menus; ensure proper equipment operation/maintenance; and ensure proper safety and sanitation in kitchen. The executive chef may oversee special catering events and may also offer culinary instruction and/or demonstrate culinary techniques. The executive chef directly supervises kitchen personnel with responsibility for hiring, discipline, performance reviews and initiating pay increases. He/she will assist in the development of employees. Additionally, will supervise all kitchen workers and give performance reviews, grant pay increases and take disciplinary action when necessary. Executive chefs prepare meals in the kitchen and delegate work to other chefs and cooks during the restaurant’s busy times. At the end of the work day, executive chef will insure the proper cleanliness and closing of the kitchen. Attendance at meetings as required Qualifications: •Bachelor’s Degree or Equivalent •International experience preferred. •Candidate should have at least 5 years’ experience in a Executive Chef kitchen management capacity and excellent knowledge of current culinary trends. •Must have experience in high volume hotel business. •Must be competent in culinary creativity as demonstrated by cooking test. •With strong knowledge of food cost and inventories. •Must possess the ability to handle stressful and busy hotel. •Candidate must have good knowledge of computers (i.e: Excel & Word). •Clear, concise written and verbal communication skills. •Candidate must be comfortable to speak to guests and conduct meeting. •Must have a good understanding of cost control. •Candidate must be a leader and a mentor. Full time. Weekend and holiday work may be required.
This position is currently held by an expatriate worker Qualified Islanders need only to apply copying applications to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range: $9.50 - $10.80 per hour
This position is currently held by an expatriate worker Qualified Islanders need only to apply copying applications to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range: $60,000 - $86,400 per annum plus 10% maximum bonus at discretion of the Board of Directors
DATE OPEN: July 4, 2016 POSITION: Housekeeper
DATE OPEN: July 13, 2016 POSITION: Domestic Worker
START DATE: ASAP
Job Overview: We are looking for a professional Housekeeper able of attending to our facilities with integrity and attention to detail. The goal is to create a clean and orderly environment for our guests that will become a critical factor in maintaining and strengthening our reputation. Responsibilities: •Perform a variety of cleaning activities such as sweeping, mopping, dusting and polishing •Ensure all rooms are cared for and inspected according to standards •Protect equipment and make sure there are no inadequacies •Notify superiors on any damages, deficits and disturbances •Deal with reasonable complaints/requests with professionalism and patience •Check stocking levels of all consumables and replace when appropriate •Adhere strictly to rules regarding health and safety and be aware of any companyrelated practices Qualified Islanders and Belongers need only to apply Salary Range: $6.25 per hour DATE OPEN: July 19, 2016 POSITION: Director of Guest Services
START DATE: ASAP
Job Overview: A member the management team responsible for the overall performance of the Personal Concierge (Butlers), Front Office and Guest Services staff and the operation of the guests services and concierge departments; to include, but not limited to staffing, training, scheduling, ensuring high guest satisfaction. Reports to: Executive Assistant Manager – Rooms. Minimum Qualifications: •Certification by a recognized Butler School •6 – 10 years’ experience in a senior management position in the hospitality industry and or Butler Service •International hospitality experience •Read, write and speak English (2 or more additional languages desired) Essential Job Functions: •Ensuring the complete satisfaction of all guests. •Ensuring that the staff of the Guest Services and Personal Concierge Department provides world class and personal service to all guests •Daily training through the Line-up process plus weekly/monthly training sessions with Guest Services and Personal Concierge and other staff members. Maintaining records of all training •Upholding the Grace Bay Resort’s Credo and culture •Coordinate and ensure smooth operations of all Guest Service areas •Build rapport with in-house guests •Utilize leadership skills, motivation techniques and experience in order to maximize employee productivity •Interact with all guests to ensure their satisfaction, to gather personal preferences •Conduct him/herself in manner reflecting the position as a department head and a senior leader of the Grace Bay Club management team •Update and maintain all Guest History Files
START DATE: ASAP
Job Overview: To undertake a wide range of domestic tasks for the guests and the hotel ensuring that the rooms and common areas are kept in a clean and hygienic condition according to the standards of the hotel. Responsibilities: - Maintain basic records such as time sheets, room log sheets and task sheets - To undertake training as required. - Maintain cleanliness standards in the rooms and common areas - To undertake any other related tasks requested by management. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker Qualified Islanders need only to apply copying applications to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range: $8.00 - $9.00 per hour DATE OPEN: July 1, 2016 POSITION: Labourer
START DATE: ASAP
Job Overview: As a general labourer, your duties are varied and may include activities that assist other departments and personnel, such as cleaning, sweeping mopping, assembling, lifting, moving, and offering general assistance. The labourer will assist skilled people in performing their tasks. In order to get this job, you should be physically fit, hardworking, and able to follow instructions rapidly and proficiently. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker Qualified Islanders need only to apply copying applications to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range: $13,200 - $20,000 per annum DATE OPEN: July 20, 2016 POSITION: Carpenter
START DATE: ASAP
Job Overview: This person will be responsible for constructing and repairing building frameworks and minor structures—such as doorframes, partitions, furniture, and rafters—made from wood and other materials. Requirements: Must be detail oriented Basic math skills Must be able to carry heavy materials and small equipment Must possess problem-solving skills This position is currently held by an expatriate worker Qualified Islanders need only to apply copying applications to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range: $16,000 - $22,000 per annum Interested persons can contact our Human Resources Department no later than August 30th, 2016 @ (649) 946-5050 Ext. 1030 Email: sheba.wilson@gracebayclub.com Fax: (649) 946-5758 P.O. Box 128 Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, British West Indies
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procedures. •Plan and coordinate housekeeping staff job duties, responsibilities, and activities including that of housekeeping managers and supervisors. •Coordinate and complete inspections of assigned areas for quality checks and cleanliness controls in accordance to standards. •Coordinate, administer and complete administrative tasks as required. REQUIREMENTS Education: A secondary school diploma is an asset. Experience: Minimum of three to five years as an Executive Housekeeper is required.
The Sands is now accepting applications/résumé for the following positions. Only highly self-driven & motivated, personable and professional individuals, whom have the desire to serve others, need apply: ENGINEERING AND FACILITIES MANAGER Responsibilities: To achieve hotel revenue, profit and customer satisfaction goals by directing the on-going Maintenance, upkeep and renovations of the hotel and resort, Pool and Beach areas, Grounds and Security Services. 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/Landscaping and Security Services. Highly involved with owner and guest relations, project management, inventories and reporting systems. •Troubleshoot and repair malfunctions in electrical/mechanical/ plumbing systems (e.g. HVAC, boilers, treatment plant system, pumps, fire systems, refrigeration systems, lighting, appliances & other hotel equipment). •Conducting ongoing room preventative maintenance program. •Resolving maintenance problems, complaints, work orders to prioritize, schedule work and cost out work orders. •HVAC, machinery, mechanics, carpentry and painting skills, as well as drywall, carpet/tile repair work, or other maintenance related trade, certification/s is a plus. Inspecting property, units/rooms, and hotel departments to identify potential and current needs. •Ensuring department expenditures meet budget requirements. Assisting with the capital budget process. •Soliciting bids/quotes from contractors and evaluating their proposals with hotel management. •Coordinating with local health, safety, fire, and building inspectors to ensure compliance with applicable codes and regulations. •Ensure pools and hot tub is properly maintained to include cleanliness and chemical content. •Maintaining the building exterior including services by outside contractor/s (e.g. lawn care, painting, etc.). Supervising and scheduling of Maintenance Technicians, Pool and Beach, Grounds/ Landscaping, and Security Services staff. Payroll Control and Scheduling… Determine appropriate staffing levels based on forecasted rooms nights/occupancy and anticipated business and create staffing schedules which optimize the balance between desired profitability, owner/customer demands and employee needs. Performance Management, Supervisory… Demonstrate ability to relate to, effectively communicate with guests, staff, owners, executives and HOD’s. Motivate employees to sustain high performance, quality services and product/s. Requirements: The individual must possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities and be able to explain and demonstrate that he/she can perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation, using some other combination of knowledge, skills, and abilities. •Must possess highly effective skills to speak, read, write and understand the primary English language(s) used in the workplace. •Must possess highly effective Hospitality skills to facilitate difficult/ challenging guest/staff relation situations. •Must possess highly effective skills to read and write to facilitate the communication process. •Must possess high organizational and follow-up skills. •Must possess excellent mathematical skills. •Must possess excellent computational skills with specific and direct working knowledge of Microsoft Office Software; Excel, Word, Power Point and Outlook. •Must be able to build Excel reports, and read and build formulabased spread sheets. •Must be able to operate and drive large equipment and machines as required. •Must be able to operate pumps, equipment, motors and company vehicles as required. •Must possess excellent motor vehicle driving skills with valid Driver’s License. EXECUTIVE HOUSEKEEPER RESPONSIBILITIES •Uphold and update established Housekeeping and Laundry operating procedures and standards. •Develop, implement and coordinate new Housekeeping and Laundry
The individual must possess Housekeeping and Laundry Department management work experience, knowledge, skills and abilities. Must be able to explain, demonstrate and perform all related job duties, functions, and responsibilities of Housekeeping and Laundry department operations. QUALIFICATION STANDARDS Education High school or equivalent education required. Bachelor’s Degree preferred. Experience Minimum of 5 years of experience in a managerial position in the Housekeeping & Laundry Department. Licenses or Certificates Executive Housekeeper Certification or time on the job equivalent as stated above required. Essential Functions 1.Plans, organizes, directs and controls all housekeeping and laundry activities, maintains the established standards of cleanliness, the orderly and attractive conditions on guest floors, public/common and employee areas. Implement working rules and proper execution to meet those standards. 2.Monitors and maintains a healthy and safe environment for owners, guests and employees. 3.Conducts and keep records of goods received, housekeeping and laundry staff, inventories, cleaning projects and room inspections for guest rooms and public areas. 4.Familiarizes him /herself and carries out policies and procedures established by the Sands at Grace Bay. 5.Initiates and aides in effective communication within the department and other departments. 6.Carries out the following routine assignments as required. (This list is not exhaustive) HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR Responsibilities: •Ensures maximum efficiency in the performance of Housekeeping staff in guest rooms and surrounding areas. •Familiarizes him / herself with and carries out the policies and procedures of The Sands. •Offers all possible assistance to guests, initiates corrective action on complaints regarding guest cleanliness and servicing of guest rooms. •Evaluates and updates the Executive Housekeeper on the performance of Housekeeping staff. Recommends appropriate action such as commendation and/or discipline. Requirements: •High school diploma or equivalent. •Must have supervised a minimum of 10-15 employees. •Most work tasks are performed indoors and outdoors. Temperature is moderate and controlled by hotel environmental systems. •Must be able to stand and exert well-paced mobility for up to 3 hours in length. •Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs. on a regular and continual basis. •Must be able to push and/or pull carts and equipment weighing up to 200 lbs. on a regular and continual basis. •Must be able to exert well-paced ability in limited space. •Must be able to bend, stoop, squat and stretch to fulfill cleaning tasks. •Must have minimum of 3 years supervisory experience in the Hotel/ Resort and/or Hospitality Industry. •Must be able to speak, read, write and understand the primary language(s) used in the workplace. •Must be able to read and write the primary language(s) to facilitate the communication process. •Requires excellent communication skills, both verbal, written. •Must possess basic computational ability and technological use of hotel PMS system, and Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook. •Must work weekends and holidays. •Must have reliable transportation to get to and from work. •Must work PM shifts as business demands according to the operations policy. POOL & BEACH SUPERVISOR Responsibilities: •Greet all guests and assist with towels, umbrellas, questions, and/or water sports equipment. •Complete setting up and breaking down of all guest lounge areas as designated by management and to ensure that all pool chairs and tables are in a clean and orderly fashion. •Constant walk-through of pool area and beach area to make certain it is clean (no trash on the grounds) and tidy. Inspect entire pool area replacing any missing items and/or repairing (when possible) any items
Turks Island citizen’s only need to apply in person to Kitchandra McDonald, Assistant Human Resources Manager at The Sands Resort located on Grace Bay Road, Providenciales, the Turks and Caicos Labour Department, or e-mail: humanresource@thesandstc.com Resumes/CV’s must be in by August 22nd, 2016.
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
needing attention. (I.E. Umbrellas, Hobie Cat, Chairs, etc.) •Pool & Hot Tub Cleaning (I.E. vacuuming, filtering, scrubbing, sifting, chemical testing, checking skimmers, etc.) Requirements: •High school or equivalent education preferred. Life-safety training and certification CPR, AED, First Aid, Water Safety required •Must have worked in hotels or other institution in a similar capacity. Must have prior pool/beach supervisory experience •Must be able to work long hours in all weather conditions •Must be able to be CPR certified, First Aid certified, and AED certified •Must be a good swimmer and perform rescue when needed •Must be able to operate rescue boat •Must be experienced in sailing, kayaking, and wind-surfing and operator all equipment •Must be able to clean and chlorinate pool •Must handle pool chemicals and equipment maintenance and functions •Life Guard experience a plus •Must speak, read, write and understand the primary language(s) (English) used in the workplace. •Must work weekends and holidays RESERVATIONS / SALES AGENT Responsibilities: •Handle incoming reservations, utilize up selling and value-added techniques •Process advance deposits •Process all electronic and faxed requests •Perform job functions with attention to detail, speed and accuracy •Be able to prioritize and organize incoming and outgoing work flow •Be a clear thinker, remaining calm and resolving problems using good judgment •Follow directions thoroughly •Understand guest service and request needs •Work cohesively with co-workers as part of a team •Work with minimal supervision •Maintain confidentiality of guest information and pertinent hotel data Requirements: •High school diploma •Must have experience in the Hotel/Resort and/or Hospitality Industry •Visual One/Opera experience is highly preferred •Must be able to type more than 40 words per minute •Strong Grammar, Reading and Writing Skills •Must have great Customer Service Skills and telephone etiquette •Must be able to speak, read, write and understand the primary language(s) used in the workplace. •Must possess basic computational ability (basic mathematics, word, excel, outlook) CONCIERGE AGENT
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Responsibilities: •Consistent and professional operation of the switchboard •Provide prompt, efficient, professional check in and check out •Accurately complete guest reservations as required •Accurately answer all guest inquiries •To be aware of all packages and special rates offered by the property •Have a good understanding of sister properties •Have a strong understanding of area and activities and services •Perform other tasks as assigned •Work cohesively with co-workers as part of a team •Maintain confidentiality of guest information and pertinent hotel data Requirements: •High school diploma •Must have experience in the Hotel/Resort and/or Hospitality Industry a minimum of 1 to 3 years combined experience preferred •Two to Three years of hotel front office experience required. •One to Two years of hotel concierge experience preferred but not mandatory. •Visual One experience is highly preferred •Strong Grammar, Reading and Writing Skills •Must have exceptional Customer Service Skills and hospitality Telephone Etiquette •Must be able to speak, read, write and understand the primary language(s) used in the workplace •Must possess basic computational ability (basic mathematics, word, excel, outlook) •Excellent interpersonal and communication skills •Highly organized and motivated •Work well under pressure MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN Responsibilities •To skillfully and professionally perform all scheduled maintenance related jobs. •Account for time spent on individual works 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. •Other duties as deemed necessary by the Engineering Administrator Requirements •Must meet minimum professional qualification/certification in Plumbing/Electrical/ Mechanical and A/C related trades •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 LINE POSITIONS HOUSEKEEPING ROOM ATTENDANT HOUSEMAN LABOURER GROUNDSMEN FRONT DESK AGENT POOL & BEACH ATTENDANT For the above line staff positions, Caribbean resort experience is an asset but not a requirement. Applicants must have a willing, positive and personable attitude, must be willing to work holidays and weekends as standard in the hospitality industry. Salary will commensurate with experience.
Turks Island citizen’s only need to apply in person to Kitchandra McDonald, Assistant Human Resources Manager at The Sands Resort located on Grace Bay Road, Providenciales, the Turks and Caicos Labour Department, or e-mail: humanresource@thesandstc.com Resumes/CV’s must be in by August 22nd, 2016. Working Conditions •Hours of work: Incumbent works approximately 35-40 hrs. per week, Monday to Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Fridays 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Accountability/Responsibility for independent Actions
The Turks and Caicos Islands Civil Aviation Authority Job Vacancy Job Title: Clerk / Librarian Location: Grand Turk Job Purpose: This position requires the individual to be the first point of contact for the Authority Head Quarters Office, and will provide administrative support across the organization. The individual will be responsible for the flow of people through the organization and ensure that all assign tasks are completed accurately and in a timely manner. Required Education/Expertise/Skills: • High School Diploma • Five CXC Passes including English and Information Technology • This position requires excellent communication and interpersonal skills • Ability to be resourceful and proactive in dealing with issues that may arise • Ability to organize, multitask, prioritize and work under pressure Required Experience Two (2) years Office experience. Valid Driver’s Licence.
• Greeting Clients and Customers. • Receiving and registering incoming correspondence. • Registering and dispatching outbound correspondence. • Communication- receiving and directing incoming calls or any other information that needs dissemination. • Attention to Detail - Performing data processing, writing letters, Scanning/Photocopying, faxing, courier, sorting mail and filing documents. • Maintaining archive files. • Assessing and managing office miscellaneous items. • Managing the notice board. • Supervising Auxiliary Staff. • Drafting low level correspondence Other Responsibilities •Entry of vendor bills/invoices in the accounting software. •Securing all Vendor bills/invoices and any documents relating to such for filing in the accountants office. •Assisting with collections Managing Library: •Maintains and controls a wide variety of technical publications, documents, records, etc. • Maintaining technical documents printing and distributing in-house documents, maintaining library shelves and files in proper order etc. •Receives amendments to all manuals and ensure prompt and accurate incorporation of such amendments in the appropriate manuals. . Salary Scale: $1,645.00 – $2,045 per month Address Resume to: Mr. Thomas Swann, Managing Director, TCI Civil Aviation Authority. Email address awillilams.caa@tciway.tc or fax 649-941-8085 no later than 12th August 2016.
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
VEHICLE FOR SALE
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
STAGE BAR Is looking for the following: 4 Barmaids & Janitor •Must have an experience at least 3-4 years. •Salary is negotiable Contact 344-8644 or email:
2014 Black Chevy Trax LTZ Price: $28,000.00 (price is negotiable ) Under 20K miles Automatic & Manual (6 speed) Transmission, Sun-roof, Bluetooth technology, Chevy MyLink Touch stereo, Power Windows/Power Locks, Great on Gas and other features. Serious Inquiries - 431-8910 JEAN LOUIS SEEKS
1 Labourer To work 6 days a week Mon-Sat Salary: $7.00 an hour Contact: 245-2005 LIFE CHANGING LIQUOR STORE
WILLIAMS DRAFTING Is looking for the following: Structural Engineer •5-8 years experience •Salary negotiable AUTOCAD TECHICIAN •At least 5 years experience •Salary negotiable Contact 344-8644 or email: browill649@gmail.com
Queen Of The Sea
Is seeking one Store Clerk To work 6 days a week Salary $6.75 an hour Contact
Ocean Vibes Scuba & Watersports Ltd
LUXURY CUTS AND BRA IS SEEKING
gtshoreexcursions@gmail.com
1 Chef 1 Kitchen Helper Must be able to create menus Salary Negotiable Contact: 432-0221
David Rivera is
browill649@gmail.com
One Pastry Supervisor One Kitchen Helper To work 6 days a week Starting Salary $8.00 an hour Contact: 331-0221
Luxury Cuts and Braids is seeking
MARVIN MISICK IS SEEKING
Two Hairstylists Must be able to braid, cut & style To work 6 days a week Must be flexible at any time Salary $6.50 an hour Contact: 346-2239
B&M CONSTRUCTION IS SEEKING
1 Finishing Carpenter To work 6 days a week Salary $6.50 an hour Contact: 247-6647
Premium Variety Store
seeking
Is seeking one Labourer To work 6 days a week Salary $6.50 an hour Contact: 244-2154
Is seeking two dive instructors one parasail boat captain and one sail boat captain salary for each is $100 per day Please email resume to
Oyster House Seeking
1 Hairdresser To work 6 days a week Salary $6.50 an hour Contact 241-2550
3 Sales Clerks 3 Technicians To work 6 days a week Salary Negotiable Contact: (649) 242-0288
SAVOR LTD SEEKS
1 Baker 1 Kitchen Helper To work 6 days a week Starting Salary $8.00 an hour Contact: 331-0221
Crust Bakery Seeking
Is seeking one Store Clerk To work 6 days a week Salary $200.00 every two weeks Contact: 347-9482
WANTED 1 Labourer To work 6 days a week $6.50 an hour Contact: 244-2889
1 Labourer To work 5 days a week $6.50 an hour Contact: 243-4849
ROBERT LUKER SEEKS
1 Housekeeper To work in North Caicos Salary $800 per month Contact 231-0262
For All you advertising needs contact TCISUN at 339-5879 Or email
– sun@suntci.com Caicos Sea Food is seeking
1 Diver To work 6 days a week Salary: negotiable Contact: 231-4554
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
CARIBBEAN WORLD
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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CARIBBEAN NEWS
NEWS NEWS
Sandals Royal Bahamian said to be closing
Bahamian Government officials were investigating reports that Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort is closing its doors until October. A letter signed by Gary C. Sadler, senior vice president of sales at Unique Vacations, Inc., advising of the closure has been circulating. It said: “Due to circumstances beyond our control, Sandals Royal Bahamian Spa & Resort & Offshore Island will be temporarily closing from August 15 to October 13, 2016.” The letter said, “We appreciate your patience as we work through this challenging time. “We have instituted a streamlined and efficient course of action for those guests affected and are extending all of our call center resources to you, including a 24-hour hotline.” Guests were offered rebookings at another Sandals Resort or Beaches Resort and were assured that Sandals would absorb all airline change fees. They are also being offered two complimentary nights at any Sandals Resort.
Senior government temporary closure at the property, officials told The Nassau which he said employs about 490 Guardian late yesterday that line staff and just under 100 they were not aware of any managers. planned closure of the property “As I indicated, the at Cable Beach. Department of Labour has been Director of Labour in discussions with the senior Robert Farquharson also said he management team of Sandals had not heard anything of the concerning a number of employee sort. related issues and non employee “Reports have reached related issues, and so that it is the Department of Labour not surprising,” the director of concerning the possible closure labor said. and the department has initiated Farquharson noted an investigation to confirm however that seasonal closures the facts and ensure that the are not unusual in the hospitality provisions of the Industrial sector. Relations Act are satisfied,” said “Most hoteliers take the Farquharson after The Guardian low season, the end of August brought the letter to his attention. to October to renovate. So this He said he spoke with is nothing new in the industry. two members of the senior This isn’t out of the norm in the management team at Sandals industry,” he said. yesterday evening. The reported plans to “They themselves are shutter the property for two unable to speak until they get months comes weeks after some concrete information,” industrial tension led to a Farquharson said. protest being staged by the union “I’m not commenting on it representing Sandals workers. because I don’t want to comment Officials of the Bahamas until we have completed our Hotel Maintenance and Allied investigation.” Workers Union say Sandals He admitted though that officials have refused to negotiate he was not surprised to hear of a an industrial agreement.
Ingraham says Christie is best man to lead PLP Former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham believes Prime Minister Perry Christie is the best man to lead the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) into the next general election, according to a report in the Nassau Guardian. “The truth of the matter is, whatever is said about Christie, there is none in the PLP who is more acceptable to the population of The Bahamas than Perry Christie. That’s a fact of life,” Ingraham said in an interview with ZNS News early last week. “I think it is wrong for people [to be] saying, ‘Christie should go. Christie should go.’ If you want him gone, you should vote against him. It’s not a big deal. He is not where he is because he put himself there. He got there because people elected him to be there. “Clearly, Christie is fully entitled to remain in office until the end of his term. Fully entitled. And he is fully entitled, if he chooses, to offer himself up for re-election as leader of the party and the party decides [for him] to lead the party in the next election.” Despite leading the PLP since 1997, Christie recently said he is staying on because many “ new generation” leaders have asked him to. However, Ingraham suggested it may also have something to do with the political rivalry between the former law partners. “He and I were elected to the House at the same time in 1977,” Ingraham said. “And so I could also understand... I was able to serve three terms as prime minister. Why wouldn’t Christie want to match that? Why wouldn’t he, from his point of view? I wouldn’t be squirmed in the back of his head sometimes if he says, ‘Well Ingraham had three terms, why I can’t have three terms?’”
St. Lucia hopes to lure Chinese tourists with $2.6 billion Pearl of the Caribbean development St. Lucia’s government has signed an agreement to build the island’s first internationally targeted, integrated development a project worth $2.6 billion designed to attract Chinese tourists and investment. The Pearl of the Caribbean will occupy a 700-acre site on the south end of the island. Plans include a casino, horse racetrack, resort and shopping mall complex, free trade zone, entertainment and leisure venues, and housing. The project is designed to attract investment and tourism from China, Southeast Asia and Russia, as well as other countries where newly wealthy investors are seeking opportunities for their money. The agreement is between several government agencies charged under the St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program, launched in January, and DSH Caribbean Star Limited. Construction is expected to begin in 2017. Caribbean Star is an affiliate of Desert Star Holdings Ltd., a Hong Kong-based management and investment company with international holdings and experience. DSH has special interest in horse racing and breeding, and those will be important features of the Pearl of the Caribbean.
The $2.6 billion Pearl of the Caribbean development for the island of St. Lucia will include entertainment, housing, recreation, a casino and a race track DSH and a joint venture partner last month signed agreements to kickstart a commercial horse breeding operation in Ordos, Inner Mongolia, and to operate a racetrack there. That facility will host the CECF Ordos, a cultural and racing festival, Aug. 20-21, preceded by a race meeting. Ultimately, DSH expects to be a key player in a massive expansion and improvement of racing in
mainland China. The potential economic benefits would be enormous, especially should the Chinese government lift its longstanding ban on wagering, and several organizations are poised to help get that ball rolling. Caribbean Star also is affiliated through DSH with the China Horse Club, which offers Chinese investors the opportunity to participate in international horse
ownership. CHC-owned horses are competing at major venues around the world and have won races at the highest levels. The club also has fostered ties with many of the most important forces in international racing. The equine facility at the Pearl of the Caribbean plans for more than 1,000 horses, with the capability of hosting featured racing carnivals.
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CARIBBEAN NEWS
Industry official says Haiti’s ban on DR products is illegal SANTO DOMINGODominican Republic – President of the Dominican Republic Industries Association, has called a ban implemented by Haiti on over twenty products from the Dominican Republic – “illegal and contrary to the rules of the World Trade Organisation (WHO)” However, AIRD President Campos de Moya, said while the
situation with neighbouring Haiti is of concern “we should not be hurling allegations and creating uproars with a country which we need to be in peace and cooperation.” Haiti is Dominican Republic’s second most important export market, but as a result of the ban, bilateral trade fell by US$400 million. On Thursday, Industry and Commerce minister José del Castillo
revealed that Haiti has expanded the ban, which now includes chicken soup and flours from the Dominican Republic. Haiti’s unilateral executive order to ban the entry of products from the Dominican Republic from crossing the border overland came into effect in October 2015, bringing to a halt 88.72% of the US$467.9 million yearly trade between the two
countries. The ban has placed a dent in trade, particularly at the bilateral market held on Mondays and Fridays. The ban was enacted despite the Dominican Government’s request that Haiti to “rethink” the measure, and the European Union’s warning of an impending jump of 40% on the price of foods and other items in Haiti.
Caribbean countries observing Emancipation Day B R I D G E T O W N , therefore ongoing, as our people Barbados – Caribbean Community continue to explore new strategies (Caricom) countries were on and mechanisms designed to Monday observing Emancipation make life and living better for all Day with a national holiday and our citizens. It is the task of each calls for the population of the one of us to think big, aim high region to reflect on the social, and strive for greater productivity economic and political progress in our blessed state of Antigua achieved since slavery had been and Barbuda,” Browne said. abolished in 1834. He told citizens that At least four Caricom over the past 182 years, “we countries in separate messages have risen from the ‘ruin urged their citizens not to rest and rubble of colonialism on their laurels and continue to and political subjugation’ to work towards the development of independence, economic and their respective countries and the social transformation. region as a whole. “Our economic situation Jamaica’s Prime Minister in Antigua and Barbuda, despite Andrew Holness said the occasion our limited resources and provides for an opportunity to small population, has grown reflect on the heroism, awe- from strength to strength with inspiring courage and indomitable few setbacks caused primarily will of our forebears, as well as by exogenous shocks. We are the legacy they have bequeathed determined to evolve into an to Jamaicans. economic powerhouse under my “The daring of those who stewardship as prime minister. were insistent in demanding “Since Emancipation, their dignity; their resoluteness our economy has moved from in struggling against their sugar and cotton production to dehumanisation and their one that is service-based, relying freshness of vision in imagining on tourism, financial services, a new kind of life, must elicit the construction, agriculture/ deepest admiration in us, their fisheries, and government successors. services,” Prime Minister Browne “We are heirs of a great added. and noble tradition of struggle Trinidad and Tobago for justice and human rights. Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley The boldness of Nanny of the said that as the new pages of Maroons; the fortitude of Tacky history are being written, there and the moral fierceness of Sam are several questions that Sharpe must illuminate our own citizens must ask themselves as path as we trod this road to the the country moves forward. full economic emancipation of our He said these questions people. include whether people are “We must draw on the facilitating new prejudices and rich reservoir of our history to divisions in Trinidad and Tobago’s drive our actions today. We are society and also, if a mindset of emancipated from the shackles of entitlement is being perpetuated. chattel slavery, but there are still “The stories of our some chains which hold us back. past should not condemn us to We must rid ourselves of them the turmoil of acrimony; but and break free,” Holness added. rather they should show us a His Antigua and path for achieving the positive Barbuda counterpart, Gaston and prosperous development Browne, recalled that the of our country now and for the Jamaican National hero Marcus generations to come. Garvey who visited Antigua in “We’re currently writing October 1937, “encapsulated the new pages in our history. We philosophical underpinning of our need to ask ourselves, are we motivation” in understanding the facilitating new prejudices and “storm of subjugation by evolving divisions in our society? Are and shaping new norms that we perpetuating a mindset of have defined us culturally and entitlement – claiming rights politically”. where instead we should accept He said the late Jamaican personal responsibility? Are we reggae icon Bob Marley echoed committed to working together in Garvey’s thinking when he sang, the best interest of our country? “none but ourselves can free Can we look past the ‘me’ and our minds” from the wounds of ‘my group’ to the bigger picture of slavery and injustice to build a nationhood?” new Antigua and Barbuda and Rowley said emancipation Caribbean. shattered an unjust status quo “Our emancipation is and reminded the population of
the oil-rich, twin-island republic that enslaved Africans, had, after emancipation, to take responsibility for the direction of their own lives. “Amid prejudice and ingrained philosophical beliefs of one group’s inherent right to dominate and denigrate another, they created opportunities for their own advancement. “As Afro-Trinbagonians, at Emancipation we reflect on our history and proudly claim our ancestry. We celebrate freedom and recognise the immense sacrifices made by our ancestors.” “While Emancipation Day may be a more intense emotional experience for persons of African descent, we must remember emancipation irrevocably changed the political, economic, and social reality not only for those who were freed but also for the population as a whole and all those who would follow. “Today Trinidad and Tobago benefits from the contributions of all our citizens, regardless of race, and it is unfortunate that some among us still seek to create chasms within the population,” Rowley added. For its part, Guyana said Emancipation has had a positive effect on the development of towns and villages in the country. “The triumph of the Africans created the opportunity for the development of modern villages and towns inhabited by the majority of Guyanese today,” said the Government Information Service Agency (GINA), noting that “Emancipation was the dawn of a new era that gave birth to the trade union movement, the liberation of trade, development and the opening of the hinterland by pork knockers.” It said the civil service was born and the setting up of artesian shops and small businesses created new communities. Many earned a living through the planting of cash crops while others with skills were employed. “Emancipation has not only ended enslavement, it also sparked several radical changes in the social, political, economic and cultural life of Guyana. It was responsible for the arrival of the other ethnic groups who were brought to Guyana as indentured servants from India, China, Madeira (Portugal) and other parts of Europe to replace the African labour force on the sugar plantations.”
World Bank launches recruitment drive for Caribbean nationals WASHINGTON – The World Bank Group is launching a recruitment drive aimed at increasing the number of Caribbean professionals in its work force. “This commitment to hire Caribbean nationals reflects the Bank Group’s senior leadership commitment for a diverse workforce in which Caribbean nationals can play a key role in fighting poverty and increasing shared prosperity,” said the Washington-based financial institution. “A career with the World Bank Group offers a unique opportunity for exceptionally talented individuals with a passion for international development to contribute to solving some of the world’s most pressing problems,” it added. The World Bank said staffers work with governments, civil society groups, the private sector and others in developing countries around the world, assisting clients in all areas of development. These include policy and strategic advice; and identification, preparation, appraisal and supervision of development projects. “We are currently seeking qualified professionals to fill various roles within the institution that may be located in Washington, D.C. or one of our WBG (World Bank Group) regional offices,” the bank said. It said minimum qualifications for entry level positions include a Master’s degree, plus five years of relevant professional experience. For mid-career professionals, the World Bank said minimum requirements are a Master’s degree, plus eight years of relevant professional experience. “Ideal candidates for these positions must have a demonstrated capacity for strategic thinking, the ability to conduct dialogue on relevant development policies and priorities, and fluency in English is required,” said the bank, adding that fluency or proficiency in other languages, in particular Arabic, Chinese, French, Portuguese, Spanish or Russian, is a plus. The World Bank said shortlisted candidates may be contacted as early as August 2016 for interviews, which may-be conducted in Washington, D.C. or locations in Caribbean. Applications deadline is August 7, 2016. Interviews will be conducted through September 2016. “During this year, the World Bank seeks to recruit highly qualified professionals who are looking for an exciting career,” said Omari Seitu Williams, acting Chargé d’ Affaires at the Embassy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to the United States in an email message to nationals in the US Diaspora. Williams said currently there exists vacant positions within the World Bank (IBRD) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) located in Washington, D.C or in one of its regional offices.
AUGUST 6TH, 2016 – AUGUST 13TH, 2016
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Cayman Islands judgev explains mosquito project decision When lawyers of opponents of public health and the environment, to the genetically modified mosquito that I have taken the step of expediting project filed an application for a stay the substantive hearing in such a and judicial review on July 13 – a review heightened way,” she wrote. that could have ended the project – The applicant, Dwene Ebanks, Justice Ingrid Mangatal suddenly had sought a judicial review of the May more than 598 pages worth of evidence 18 decision of the Department of the and documents to review. Environment, acting on behalf of the Complicating matters was the National Conservation Council, to time-sensitive nature of the project, permit the import and release of up which had been scheduled to begin July to 22 million genetically modified 14. With a stay in place while the case mosquitoes in West Bay. The project was proceeding in court, three batches which aims to reduce the Aedes of genetically modified mosquitoes – aegypti species that transmits dengue, approximately 150,000 of them – had chikungunya and Zika. to be destroyed. Mr. Ebanks, who spearheads On Monday, the judge delivered a group called Caymanians United her ruling and explained the rationale to Suspend GM Mosquitoes, started for that decision the following day. a petition to suspend the project two “In my judgment, the Applicant months ago. has failed to establish the grounds set The challenge was made on out in the application and the relief five grounds: that the respondents sought by way of Judicial Review must failed to carry out an independent risk be refused,” the judge wrote in the assessment of the consequences of the draft copy of her 23-page judgment. proposed release; that there was a After Justice Mangatal flawed reliance on an October 2009 risk released the reasons for her judgment, assessment; that there was a failure to counsel for the applicant asked for carry out a public consultation; that an additional stay in order to have there was a “predisposition” to grant time to appeal. The judge refused the approval; and irrationality. stay, and the project – a collaboration The purpose of the judicial between Cayman’s Mosquito Research review was not to determine the merits and Control Unit and Oxitec – can now or demerits of the project, “no matter begin at any time. how controversial they may be,” the “I understood the urgency of judge wrote. the application, since the application “That is a matter for the sought, amongst other relief, a stay appropriately qualified and mandated of events and actions scheduled for public bodies,” she said. the very next day,” Judge Mangatal The judge wrote that she had wrote. “However, I also understood to respect the National Conservation the weightiness and importance of the Council’s decision and “only interfere if subject matter to the public bodies solid grounds have been made out that concerned, and indeed, to the public in there has been breach of the rights of a general. citizen, including fundamental human “It is because the planned rights.” operation appears to be extremely time “In my judgment, the Applicant sensitive in a number of ways, and has failed to establish the grounds set allegedly involves the critical issues out in the application and the relief
sought by way of Judicial Review must be refused,” the judge wrote. She said the respondents’ evidence showed that the National Conservation Council and the Department of Environment considered the potential risks before granting approval, and found that there was not a failure to consult with the public before the council’s decision. She noted that meetings took place in public and there was notification to the public via the media in advance of the National Conservation Council’s decision, that relevant information was available on the Department of Environment’s website, and that there was “quite intense public outreach carried out in West Bay.” “It should be noted that although proper consultation is important, there must be a cut-off point as we do not live in an ideal world,” the judge wrote. “It is also the case, that at the end of the day, there is no telling whether everyone will agree on the course to be adopted.” In response to an assertion by the applicant that the signing of a partnership agreement on the project prior to the submission of the MRCU’s application to the National
FNM chairman: Butler-Turner knew she was going to lose
PARTY Chairman Sidney Friday afternoon, Mrs ButlerCollie said Long Island MP Turner said her decision to quit Loretta Butler-Turner did not was based on two reasons - “a withdraw from the Free National process full of irregularities and Movement’s leadership race deep structural issues” and Mr because the process was “corrupt” Turnquest’s public rebuke of her. but because she knew “the tide However, Mr Collie said was against her” and she could there was no corruption of the not win. process and “every one” of Mrs Mr Collie told The Butler-Turner’s concerns were Tribune that Mrs Butler-Turner addressed before the convention. put on the “best show that she “The tide was against could” but she knew after giving her. She put on the best show her speech on the second night of she could but it was not enough. the FNM’s convention last week I understand what she went “her leadership race was over”. through. I ran twice, won once Mrs Butler-Turner’s and lost once,” Mr Collie said. hour-long speech on Thursday “It was clear when she night ended with angry Dr Hubert called her own members and Minnis supporters chanting “Roc others to join her on the platform wit Doc” in an attempt to force her and no one showed up that it PARTY Chairman Sidney Collie from the podium. was over. That was the moment At one point during her Leader Peter Turnquest of truth for her. I must say, she speech, Mrs Butler-Turner also publicly criticised her for being did well to finish her speech called for FNM parliamentarians, “disrespectful” for running beyond regardless of what she was feeling. senators and candidates to join her allotted 25 minutes for her “The hall erupted into ‘Roc wit Doc’ her on stage in a show of solidarity. speech. and no one told them to do that; However, only her running mate In a surprise turn of the tide was just against her. Her for deputy leader, Dr Duane events hours later, around 2am, people gave her advice and she Sands, stood by her side. Mrs Butler-Turner and Dr Sands ran with it. It had nothing to do In his address to FNM withdrew from the leadership with the process. She knew it was supporters minutes after Mrs race. over the minute she started her Butler-Turner, FNM Deputy In a press conference on speech.”`
Conservation Council raised concerns that the council’s “discretion may have been fettered,” the judge wrote that the applicant’s statement amounted to “no more than speculation.” She also noted that the project was not the first time such a release would occur in Cayman. In 2009 and 2010, genetically modified mosquitoes were released during a trial project in East End. “For the future, when planning to use any new technology, which, unlike the [genetically modified mosquitoes] has not already been introduced to the Islands, a non-binding survey … might well be considered to have some benefit and go a far way in enabling the public to feel a part of a process before implementation,” the justice advised in her written draft judgment. The judge also advised that the Department of Environment and the National Conservation Council begin to develop the “criteria, procedures and subsidiary legislation” for determining whether the introduction of alien or genetically modified species might cause any harm to natural resources and for regulating and controlling such populations and introductions.
Police and soldiers hit streets as murders continue Police and members of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force have been ordered to patrol the streets here as the murders continue unabated here. At least five people were killed during a 24 hour period bring the toll so far this year to 256 murders compared to 239 for the same period last year. Acting Police Commissioner Stephen Williams, who proceeds on three months’ vacation Monday, confirmed that there will be joint security forces in a bid to increase visibility effective immediately. “Even though I am proceeding on vacation leave, I will continue to support the Police Service to deal with crime and to engender a feeling of safety and security to all citizens,” Williams told the NEWSDAY newspaper. Police said that the five men were killed in separate incidents including one where the bodies of two men were found in their beds in a oneroom apartment. In a statement, the police urged members of the public to assist with the investigations by providing information that could lead to persons being charged in relation to these recent homicides.
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NEWS
Islamic State captures up to 3,000 fleeing Iraqis: UNHCR Islamic State fighters may have captured up to 3,000 fleeing Iraqi villagers on Thursday and subsequently executed 12 of them, the U.N. refugee agency UNHCR said in a daily report on events in Iraq. The report followed a statement on Thursday from the Iraqi Observatory for Human rights, which said about 1,900 civilians had been captured by an estimated 100-120 Islamic State fighters, who were using people as shields against attacks by Iraqi Security Forces. Tens of civilians had been executed, and six burnt. “UNHCR has received reports that ISIL captured on 4 August up to 3,000 IDPs (internally displaced people) from villages in Hawiga District in Kirkuk Governorate trying to flee to Kirkuk city. Reportedly, 12 of the IDPs have been killed in captivity,” the UNHCR report said. The United States is leading a military coalition conducting air strikes against Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, where the group seized broad swathes of territory in 2014. The fighting had displaced 3.4 million people in Iraq by July 2016. Islamic State’s grip on some towns has been broken, but it still controls its de facto capitals of Mosul in Iraq and Raqqa in Syria. Last month the U.N. appealed for $284 million to
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U.S. woman killed in London knife attack, no evidence of terrorism link say police
Police officers stand near a forensics tent after a knife attack in Russell Square in London, Britain August 4, 2016
An Islamic State flag hangs amid electric wires over a street in Ain al-Hilweh Palestinian refugee camp, near the port-city of Sidon, southern Lebanon January 19, 2016 prepare aid for an assault on Mosul, as well as up to $1.8 billion to deal with the aftermath. It has so far received nothing in response, according to the U.N. Financial Tracking Service. UNHCR has begun building a site northeast of Mosul for 6,000 people and is preparing another northwest of the city for 15,000, a fraction of those expected to need shelter. Tens of thousands who fled from the city of Falluja have still not returned since its recapture from Islamic State in June. Three volunteers helping to clear Falluja of rubble and explosives died while clearing a house on Aug 1,
UNHCR said. “Although local authorities have suggested that returns to Falluja could begin in September, the Ministry of Migration and Displacement has stated that it may take another three months before conditions are conducive for large scale returns,” it said. But Iraqi authorities reported 300,000 displaced people had returned to Ramadi district, UNHCR said. Iraqi forces declared victory over the jihadist group in Ramadi, the capital of Anbar province, in December, but later called a halt to returns after dozens of civilians were killed by mines.
U.S. warplanes launch bombing campaign on Islamic State in Libya U.S. planes bombed Islamic State targets in Libya on Monday, responding to the U.N.backed government’s request to help push the militants from their former stronghold of Sirte in what U.S. officials described as the start of a sustained campaign against the extremist group in the city. “The first air strikes were Libyan forces allied with the U.N.-backed government fire weapons during a battle with carried out at specific locations in IS fighters in Sirte, Libya, July 21, 2 Sirte today causing severe losses sites, including the Ouagadougou GNA, Cook said. to enemy ranks,” Prime Minster conference hall, the central In the future, each Fayez Seraj said on state TV. hospital and the university. individual strike will be Pentagon spokesman Peter Cook Seraj said the coordinated with the GNA said the strikes did not have Presidential Council of his and needs the approval of the “an end point at this particular Government of National commander of U.S. forces in moment in time”. Accord, or GNA, had decided to Africa, Cook added. Forces allied with Seraj “activate” its participation in the This was the third U.S. have been battling Islamic State international coalition against air strike against Islamic State in Sirte - the home town of former Islamic State and “request militants in Libya. But U.S. dictator Muammar Gaddafi - the United States to carry out officials said this one marked the since May. targeted air strikes on Daesh start of a sustained air campaign The militants seized (Islamic State).” rather than another isolated the Mediterranean coastal city The air strikes on strike. last year, making it their most Monday - which were authorized The last acknowledged important base outside Syria and by U.S. President Barack Obama U.S. air strikes in Libya were on Iraq. But they are now besieged - hit an Islamic State tank and an Islamic State training camp in a few square kilometers of the two vehicles that posed a threat in the western city of Sabratha in center, where they hold strategic to forces aligned with Libya’s February.
A U.S. woman was killed and five other people injured by a man with suspected mental health issues who went on a rampage with a knife in central London, but police said there was no evidence that the attack was terrorism related. Armed police were called at 10:33 p.m. (2133 GMT) after a Norwegian man of Somali origin with a knife started to attack people in London’s Russell Square, an elegant park near the site of a 2005 suicide bombing. The victim, a U.S. citizen in her 60s, was treated at the scene but pronounced dead a short time later. Another woman and four men were treated in hospital, though three of them were later discharged. Nationals from Australia, Britain, Israel and the United States were among those hurt. “All of the work we have done so far increasingly points to this tragic incident as having been triggered by mental health issues,” said London Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Mark Rowley. “We believe this was a spontaneous attack and that the victims were selected at random,” said Rowley, who is Britain’s most senior antiterrorism officer. “So far we have found no evidence of radicalization that would suggest that the man in our custody is in any way motivated by terrorism,” said Rowley. Initially he said that terrorism was a line of inquiry. Police, who arrived within six minutes of being called, used a Taser electric shock gun while detaining the 19-year-old suspect. He was later formally arrested on suspicion of murder. Police cordoned off the southern part of the square, which sits at the heart of London’s university area and is close to landmarks such as the British Museum, for several hours as forensics officers examined the attack scene. Later, workmen hosed blood off the pavement. “SEVERE THREAT” London’s Sadiq Khan, the first Muslim mayor of a major Western capital, called for vigilance and urged Londoners to report anything suspicious to the police, who increased their presence in the capital. “The safety of all Londoners is my number one priority and my heart goes out to the victims of the incident in Russell Square and their loved ones,” he said. Just hours before the Russell Square attack, London’s police chief said that he would deploy an additional 600 armed officers across the capital to protect against attacks. London counter-terrorism police chiefs have previously warned that Islamic State was seeking to radicalize vulnerable people with mental health issues to carry out attacks. In some operations, police commanders have taken advice from specialist psychologists.
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Obama administration denies Iran cash payment was a ransom
U.S. President Barack Obama answers a question as he and Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong hold a joint news conference at the White House in Washington, U.S. August 2, 2016 The Obama administration said on Wednesday that $400 million in cash paid to Iran soon after the release of five Americans detained by Tehran was not ransom as some Republicans have charged. The five, including Washington Post reporter Jason Rezaian, were released on Jan. 16 in exchange for seven Iranians held in the United States for sanctions violations. The prisoner deal coincided with the lifting of international sanctions against Tehran. At the time, the United States said it had settled a longstanding Iranian claim at the Iran-U.S. Claims Tribunal in The Hague, releasing $400
million in funds frozen since 1981, plus $1.3 billion in interest that was owed to Iran. The funds were part of a trust fund Iran used before its 1979 Islamic Revolution to buy U.S. military equipment that was tied up for decades in litigation at the tribunal. Representative Jason Chaffetz, chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, on Wednesday sent a letter to Secretary of State John Kerry asking him to appear at a future committee hearing to discuss the payment. White House spokesman Josh Earnest rejected suggestions the money transfer to Iran was
ransom or a secret. “The United States, under President Obama, has not paid a ransom to secure the release of Americans unjustly detained in Iran and we’re not going to pay a ransom,” he said in response to a Wall Street Journal article that said Washington secretly organized the cash airlift. Earnest said Republicans, who have long opposed the Iran nuclear deal, are seizing on how the money was paid to Iran as a way to undermine the deal. “They’re struggling to justify their opposition to our engagement with Iran,” he told a briefing. While there have long been questions about the timing of the payment, one Iranian concern was that the Obama administration could face too much domestic political criticism if it delayed acting on the tribunal’s decision. Due to international sanctions against Iran, the payment, made in euros, Swiss francs and other currencies, had to be made in cash, U.S. officials argue. One U.S. official said the $1.3 billion in interest
Republican rift widens as Trump declines to endorse Ryan, McCain U.S. Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump ratcheted up tensions in his party on Tuesday by denying two leading figures, House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan and Senator John McCain, support in their re-election bids. Trump told The Washington Post in an interview that he could endorse neither Ryan, the top U.S. elected Republican, nor McCain, a U.S. senator from Arizona and a former Republican presidential nominee, as they face challenges in their states’ primary contests ahead of the Nov. 8 general election. Both Ryan and McCain had criticized Trump’s feud with the family of Army Captain Humayun Khan, who died in the line of duty in Iraq in 2004 and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for bravery after his death. The discord comes just two weeks after the Republican National Convention in Cleveland that formally nominated Trump for president. It is the latest rift in a party already frayed by internal dissent over its standard bearer, seen in stark relief at the convention where McCain was among high-level party members who essentially snubbed Trump by choosing not to attend. Mitt Romney, the 2012 Republican nominee, and former presidents George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush also did not attend the convention. Trump has had a running dispute with Khizr and Ghazala Khan since they took the stage at last week’s
Republican U.S. Presidential nominee Donald Trump attends a campaign event at Briar Woods High School in Ashburn, Virginia, U.S., August 2, 2016 Democratic convention to cite their son’s sacrifice and criticize Trump’s proposed ban on Muslims entering the United States. The uproar has led many Republicans to distance themselves from Trump and voice support for the Khan family. Trump, mirroring the language Ryan used about supporting the nominee before his eventual endorsement, told the newspaper he was “not quite there yet” on endorsing Ryan in next Tuesday’s Wisconsin primary, and that he had “never been there” with McCain, who will be on the ballot in primary elections in Arizona later this month. McCain had a “very friendly” meeting with Trump’s vice presidential running mate, Mike Pence, on Tuesday in Arizona, where Pence was visiting, a McCain spokeswoman said.
was paid to Iran through the report. In response to the U.S. Treasury-administered Judgment Fund, which is used report, a Department of to pay awards against the Justice spokesman said in a statement: “The Department United States. Senior officials at of Justice fully supported the Justice Department had the ultimate outcome of the resolution objected to sending cash on a Administration’s plane to Iran at the same time of several issues with Iran, that Iran was releasing four including Hague settlement imprisoned Americans (the efforts, as well as the return of fifth American was released U.S. citizens detained in Iran. separately) but were overruled We will not comment further internal interagency by the State Department, on The Wall Street Journal deliberations.” A senior State reported in a separate story official also on Wednesday, citing people Department responded by saying that familiar with the discussions. “People knew what the payment had been fully it was going to look like, an interagency decision and and there was concern the that any idea that the State Iranians probably did consider Department had the power to it a ransom payment,” the overrule was false. newspaper quoted one of the R e p u b l i c a n presidential nominee Donald people as saying. Justice Department Trump blamed his Democratic prosecutors were also opponent, Hillary Clinton, concerned that the United who was secretary of state States would release too many during Obama’s first term, for Iranian convicts and drop too launching the talks with Iran. many pending criminal cases “Our incompetent Secretary of against people suspected of State, Hillary Clinton, was the violating sanctions laws, the one who started talks to give second Wall Street Journal 400 million dollars, in cash, to Iran. Scandal!” Trump said in report said. Reuters was unable a Twitter post. to independently verify the
Nigerian behind $60M online fraud network arrested
A Nigerian behind an online fraud network which engineered scams worth more than $60 million has been arrested in southern oil city of Port Harcourt Lagos - A Nigerian behind an online fraud network which engineered scams worth more than $60 million (54 million euros) has been arrested in southern oil city of Port Harcourt, Interpol said on Monday. “The 40-year-old Nigerian national, known as ‘Mike’, is believed to be behind scams totalling more than $60 million involving hundreds of victims worldwide,” the international police organisation said in a statement. “In one case, a target was conned into paying out $15.4 million,” Interpol said, indicating that the arrest was carried out with the support of Nigeria’s anti-graft agency the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). “The network compromised email accounts of small to medium businesses around the world including in Australia, Canada, India, Malaysia,
Romania, South Africa, Thailand and the United States,” it said. The suspect ran a network of at least 40 people working from Nigeria, Malaysia and South Africa which used malware and carried out the fraud, and he also had money laundering contacts in China, Europe and the US who provided bank account details for the illicit cash flow. “Following his arrest in Port Harcourt in southern Nigeria, a forensic examination of devices seized by the EFCC showed he had been involved in a range of criminal activities including business e-mail compromise and romance scams,” it said. The suspect and a fellow fraudster, 38, who was also arrested in the city, face charges including hacking, conspiracy and obtaining money under false pretences.
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WORLD NEWS
Icahn to close Trump Taj Mahal casino in Atlantic City
Atlantic City’s Trump Taj Mahal casino, owned by Carl Icahn, will close at the end of the summer, the billionaire investor’s company (IEP.O) said on Wednesday. Closure of the casino, which is in the midst of a strike by its unionized workers over wages and health insurance costs, would be another blow to the struggling New Jersey beach resort. Four of its 12 casinos remain shut after closing in 2014, though one of them reopened as a hotel only. “ Currently the Taj is losing multimillions a month, and now with this strike, we see no path to profitability,” Tony Rodio, chief executive of Tropicana Entertainment Inc (TPCA.PK), said in a statement. The board of the Taj and Icahn Enterprises “cannot just allow the Taj to continue burning through tens of millions of dollars when the union has single handedly blocked any path to profitability.” said Rodio, whose company is controlled by Icahn. He said the company intends to send required layoff notices to workers before this weekend, adding
“The great dealmaker would rather burn the Trump Taj Mahal down just so he can control the ashes,” McDevitt said in a statement. “In the end he’ll have to live with what he’s done to working people in Atlantic City,” he said. “The Boardwalk is littered with empty monuments to his greed.” Atlantic City, once the U.S. East Coast’s only casino gambling site, is struggling to pay its bills and has until November to devise a fiscal recovery plan or else face possible state takeover. Its property tax base eroded when its gambling industry lost value because competing casinos began opening in neighboring states. Atlantic City Mayor Don Striking workers from the Trump Taj Mahal Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey, protest outside the Guardian said in a statement that it is offices of investor and casino owner Carl Icahn in midtown Manhattan, New York City, New York, U.S., “unfortunate and disappointing” that July 13, 2016 no resolution has been found to keep that Icahn’s company has lost nearly Bob McDevitt, president of Unite Here the Taj Mahal open. “Atlantic City has been $100 million “trying to save the Taj.” Local 54, which represents about 1,100 The casino was once owned workers at the casino who will lose resilient for over 160 years and we will by Republican presidential nominee their jobs, called the closure “petty” continue to do so, as we rise to meet Donald Trump, who lost his stake in it and an attempt to break their labor any challenge ahead of us,” Guardian during its bankruptcy. strike. said.
As ‘caliphate’ shrinks, Islamic State looks to global attacks Islamic State, losing territory and on the retreat in Iraq and Syria, has claimed credit for a surge in global attacks this summer, most of them in France and Germany. The wave of attacks followed a call to strike against the West during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan in June and July, in an apparent shift in strategy by the jihadist group, which has been hammered by two years of U.S.-led coalition air strikes and ground advances by local forces. Instead of urging supporters to travel to its self-proclaimed caliphate, it encouraged them to act locally using any means available. “If the tyrants close the door of migration in your faces, then open the door of jihad in theirs and turn their actions against them,” said an audio clip purportedly from spokesman Abu Muhammad al-Adnani, referring to Western governments’ efforts to keep foreign fighters from traveling to the join the group. Radicalized followers have responded to that call repeatedly in the past two months, in countries part of the international coalition battling
A flag belonging to the Islamic State fighters is seen on a motorbike after forces loyal to Syria’s President Bashar al-Assad recaptured the historic city of Palmyra, in Homs Governorate in this handout picture provided by SANA on March 27, 2016 Islamic State, including shooting people at a Florida nightclub, running them over with a truck in the French Riviera, and hacking them with an axe on a train near Munich. The perpetrators had varying
degrees of connection to the Middle East-based jihadists. Some had tried to travel to Syria and were on the authorities’ radar, while others displayed few outward signs of radicalism until their deadly acts. “There’s a growing understanding that the idea of the caliphate is dying and more and more the leadership is calling on foreign fighters not even to come to Iraq and Syria but to go elsewhere or to commit violence locally,” said Max Abrahms, a professor at Northeastern University in Boston who studies extremist groups. Looking ahead, security experts and officials in the Middle East and the West predict the military campaign against the group in Iraq and Syria will ultimately end its goal of establishing a caliphate but in doing so may lead to a sustained increase in militant attacks globally.
attackers in the West to choose from methods ranging in sophistication from bombing and shooting to stabbing and assault. “Pledge your allegiance in secret or in public to (Islamic State leader) Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi and each one of you will be a soldier of the caliphate, no different from those present in the Islamic State,” said one supporter. Claims of credit for recent attacks issued by Islamic State via Amaq news agency, which supports the jihadist group, referenced Adnani’s appeal. The attackers “carried out the operation in response to calls to target nationals of countries that are part of the coalition fighting Islamic State” in Iraq and Syria, said statements following four incidents in Europe this month. In France, a Bastille Day truck attack killed 84 people in Nice and a ‘LONE WOLF’ raid on a church killed an elderly Catholic priest in Normandy; In For more than a month, Islamic Germany, an axe attack and a suicide State supporters on social media have bombing in Bavaria injured about 20 been encouraging would-be “lone wolf” people in total.
Cuba sees tourism rise, French will renovate Havana airport HAVANA — More than 2 million tourists have visited Cuba this year, state media said Wednesday, putting the country on track for a record number of visitors bringing badly needed cash to an economy facing a sharp reduction in subsidized oil from its chief ally, Venezuela. Tourism Minister Manuel Marrero said visitor numbers were running 12 percent ahead of those last year, which already saw a record number of tourists. The surge is credited to a wave of international interest in Cuba prompted by the announcement of U.S.-Cuba detente in Dec. 2014. Visitor numbers are expected to get a major boost after commercial flights from the United States begin this month. The rise in tourism has strained Cuba’s infrastructure, filling hotels to capacity and creating long waits at Havana’s Jose Marti International Airport. The government announced Wednesday that Aeroports de Paris, the French government-
controlled firm that runs Charles de Gaulle, Orly and other Paris airports, would receive a concession to operate Jose Marti, which would be renovated by the French firm Bouygues. The announcement contained no details but updating the airport to receive hundreds of thousands more tourists a year will almost certainly become of the most important infrastructure projects in Cuba, and the largest French-Cuban deal since President Francois Hollande visited the island in May 2015. A spokesman for Aeroports de Paris declined immediate comment. Marrero said Cuba expects to receive 3.8 million tourists this year. Josefina Vidal, Cuba’s head of U.S. relations, said on Twitter Wednesday that 138,000 Americans visited in the first half of 2016, an 80 percent increase that made the U.S. the second-largest source of visitors after Canada.
people put their luggage in a private taxi as they arrive from the U.S. to the Jose Marti International Airport in Havana, Cuba. The rise in Cuba’s tourism has strained the country’s infrastructure, filling hotels to capacity and creating long waits at airport. The government announced Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2016, that Aeroports de Paris, the French government-controlled firm that runs Charles de Gaulle, Orly and other Paris airports, would receive a concession to operate Jose Marti, which would be renovated by the French firm Bouygues
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Clinton accuses Trump of scapegoating Muslim soldier’s parents
U.S. Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton accused Donald Trump on Sunday of scapegoating the parents of a Muslim soldier killed in Iraq, after the Republican nominee took issue with remarks the soldier’s father made at the Democratic National Convention. Trump, in an ABC interview that aired on Sunday, questioned why Ghazala Khan, mother of U.S. Army Captain Humayun Khan, stood quietly by her husband, Khizr Khan, as he took the stage at last week’s Democratic convention in Philadelphia. Trump suggested the mother might not have been “allowed” to speak. Speaking at a church service, Clinton said Trump had been insulting to a family who had sacrificed so much. She also used the episode to contrast her own religious faith with that of Trump, who has spoken of religion on the campaign trail infrequently. “I don’t begrudge anyone of any other faith or of no faith at all, but I do tremble before those who would scapegoat other Americans, who would insult people because of their religion, their ethnicity, their disability,” Clinton said in remarks at the Imani Temple Ministries, an African-American church in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. “It’s just not how I was raised, that’s not how I was taught in my church,” said Clinton, who grew up as a Methodist. “Tim Kaine and I are people of faith,” she said, referring to
her vice presidential running mate, who is a Catholic. Top Republican lawmakers House Speaker Paul Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell also condemned Trump’s remarks in separate statements, although they did not mention their presidential candidate by name. “Many Muslim Americans have served valiantly in our military, and made the ultimate sacrifice. Captain Khan was one such brave example,” Ryan said. “His sacrifice - and that of Khizr and Ghazala Khan - should always be honored. Period.” he said. Earlier on Sunday, Ghazala Khan took up her own defense in an opinion piece in the Washington Post, saying her husband had asked her in advance whether she would want to speak at the convention but that she had decided she would be unable to do so on stage because of her pain over the 2004 death of her son. “Donald Trump said that maybe I wasn’t allowed to say anything. That is not true,” she wrote. “When Donald Trump is talking about Islam, he is ignorant.” In a statement issued on Sunday evening by the Trump campaign, Trump’s running mate, Mike Pence, said that he and the Republican nominee “believe that Captain Humayun Khan is an American hero” that his family, like
Khizr Khan, who’s son Humayun was killed serving in the U.S. Army ten years after September 11, 2001, speaks at the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. July 28, 2016 other families of fallen soldiers, “should of American soldiers from many be cherished by every American.” backgrounds at Arlington National But Pence added that Captain Cemetery. Khan had died defending the country In the interview aired on against terrorism and that Trump’s Sunday morning on ABC’s “This Week,” policies would reduce the likelihood Trump cast doubt on why Khan’s wife that other families would face the kind did not speak. of heartbreak the Khans had. “She was standing there, she Khizr Khan, a U.S. citizen had nothing to say, she probably, maybe of Pakistani origin and a Muslim, she wasn’t allowed to have anything to spoke about his war hero son at the say. You tell me,” Trump said. Democratic convention and took issue Trump on Sunday tweeted with Trump’s call for a temporary that Khan’s son had died 12 years ago: ban on the entry of Muslims into the “Captain Khan, killed 12 years ago, United States. was a hero, but this is about RADICAL Khizr Khan invited the ISLAMIC TERROR and the weakness Republican nominee to read the U.S. of our “leaders” to eradicate it!” Constitution and visit the graves
Lawyers of church shooter argue federal death penalty unconstitutional
Dylann Roof is seen in this June 18, 2015 handout booking photo provided by Charleston County Sheriff’s Office Attorneys for a white man accused of killing nine black parishioners in a racially motivated attack at a South Carolina church a year ago argued that their client should not face the death penalty, asserting the punishment is unconstitutional. Federal prosecutors are seeking the death penalty against Dylann Roof, 22, who is accused of opening fire on a Bible study session at Charleston’s historic Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church on June 17, 2015. The shooting shook
the country and intensified debate over U.S. race relations, which were already roiled by numerous high-profile police killings of unarmed black people. Attorneys for Roof argued in a document filed in a U.S. District Court in South Carolina on Monday that the federal death penalty is “cruel and unusual punishment” and, as a result, violates the U.S. Constitution. “No one can be lawfully sentenced to death or executed under it, no matter what his crimes,” the attorneys wrote in
the motion. A court ruling that the Federal Death Penalty Act is unconstitutional would allow Roof to plead guilty and proceed to the sentencing phase of his case in which he could be to life in prison without parole, his attorneys said. In an earlier court filing, federal prosecutors cited a number of factors for seeking the death penalty, saying Roof singled out victims who were black and elderly, and showed no remorse. They also cited “substantial planning and premeditation.” The argument that the death penalty is unconstitutional is a typical line of defense. The federal trial against Roof is set to begin on Nov. 7. Federal death sentences are rarely carried out in the United States. Roof also faces a state capital punishment trial, which is scheduled to begin in January. Roof faces different charges in each case. State prosecutors in South Carolina charged him with murder and attempted murder, while federal prosecutors charged him with 33 counts including hate crimes, obstruction of religion and firearms offenses.
U.S. President Barack Obama speaks at a Young African Leaders Initiative town hall in Washington, U.S., August 3, 2016
Obama cuts short prison sentences for 214 convicts President Barack Obama cut short the prison terms of 214 convicts on Wednesday, the largest number of commutations a U.S. leader has granted in single day since at least 1900, the White House said. Obama has now granted a total of 562 commutations during his presidency, more than the number by the past nine presidents combined, it said. In Wednesday’s batch, 67 convicts were serving life sentences. The convicts were serving time for crimes including possession of crack cocaine and methamphetamine, with intent to distribute. Some were imprisoned on charges of gun possession. One of the convicts, James Wright of Baltimore, Maryland, was serving a 20 year sentence that began in 2006 for possession of crack with intent to distribute. He will be released in December. Obama has worked to reform the U.S. criminal justice system and reduce the number of people serving long sentences for nonviolent drug offences. It is a rare issue on which Obama gets support from Republican lawmakers. For years crack offenders faced stiffer penalties than powder cocaine offenders, even though the substances are similar at the molecular level. Critics have said the disparity has unfairly harmed minority and poor communities. In 2014, Obama announced the most ambitious clemency program in 40 years, inviting thousands of drug offenders and other convicts to seek early release. But the program has struggled under a flood of unprocessed cases.
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BUSINESS &
WORLD NEWS BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY
TECHNOLOGY
Instagram’s Snapchatlike feature allows 24-hour-limit posts
Users of Instagram, a photo-sharing app owned by Facebook Inc , can now post picture and video slideshows that last 24 hours, a feature similar to the signature function of social media rival Snapchat. Snapchat, which launched in 2011, got its initial boost from millennials, especially teenagers, who value the privacy that the app offers. Text messages disappear right after they are read, and posts expire after 24 hours. As with Snapchat, the new Instagram Stories feature allows its 500 million members to annotate their posts with emojis, doodles and texts, Instagram said in a blog post on Tuesday. The feature is the latest salvo between Facebook, which bought Instagram for $1 billion in 2012, and Snapchat, which
rejected Facebook’s $3 billion buyout offer just three years ago, as they try to attract more users. Snapchat is popular with younger people who want to shield their posts from the eyes of their parents, who are more likely to be on Facebook, whose 1.7 billion monthly users tend to be older. Snapchat recently surpassed Twitter Inc in daily users and is valued at around $18 billion. In July, Snapchat introduced a Memories feature that enables users to save and share their content, as on Facebook. Instagram Stories allows followers to send direct messages to the uploader but users cannot “like” an image or post a comment, as in Facebook. Instagram Stories is available in the United States
and will roll out globally over the next few weeks on Apple Inc iPhones and Alphabet Inc’s Android-based smartphones, Instagram said. “This is the latest step in putting video at the center of all our services. People are already creating and sharing more video, so we’re going to make it even easier,” Facebook Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg wrote on his Facebook account. Many replies to Zuckerberg’s post pointed out the new feature’s resemblance to Snapchat. Facebook user Antoine Maillot wrote: “Snapchat-like on Facebook World... No, I prefer the real Snapchat app, sorry.” Shares of Facebook fell 1.1 percent to $122.92 at midafternoon.
Nike to exit golf equipment business Nike Inc (NKE.N), the world’s biggest sportswear maker, said it would stop selling golf equipment, including clubs, golf balls and bags. The company, which built its golf business on the success of golfer Tiger Woods, said it would instead accelerate innovation in its golf footwear and apparel business and on partnering with more golfers. Nike did not give a timeline for the planned exit. The company is the second major sporting goods maker reviewing its golf business. Adidas (ADSGn.DE) said in May it would sell the bulk of its loss-making golf business, hurt by waning interest in the sport, especially in the United States. The number of people playing golf in the United States has fallen sharply after peaking in 2000, when Tiger Woods was in his prime. For Nike, the problem is particularly acute. A Nike-sponsored golfer hasn’t won a major golf tournament in the prior eight championships, according to ESPN. Nike is also facing stiff competition from smaller domestic rival Under Armour
Rory McIlroy tees off on the first hole during the third round of The Memorial Tournament at Muirfield Village Golf Club Inc (UA.N), which has successfully lured top sports personalities to endorse its brands. Jordan Spieth, last year’s no.1 ranked golfer, endorses Under Armour.
Sales in the golf business fell 8 percent to $706 million in Nike’s latest financial year ended May 31. It is one of the company’s smallest businesses, contributing about 3 percent to its total revenue.
Wal-Mart in talks to buy online retailer Jet.com: report Wal-Mart Stores Inc is in talks to buy Jet.com, a year-old online rival, as part of a multibillion-dollar revamp of its e-commerce division aimed at boosting online sales growth, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday. Jet.com could be worth as much as $3 billion, the Journal said, citing people familiar with the matter. Wal-Mart spokesman Greg Hitt declined to comment and Jet could not be immediately reached for comment. The world’s largest retailer is playing catch up with Amazon.com Inc on distribution and technology. The acquisition could give it access to Jet.com’s innovative pricing software, its network of warehouses and customer data. For the past five years Wal-Mart has been on an acquisition spree, buying 15 startups in an attempt to bring in the talent and technology needed to drive e-commerce growth. That includes a social data analysis startup that became its core Silicon Valley technology arm, @WalmartLabs. While Wal-Mart has not said what it spent on those acquisitions, it has disclosed a total of $3.1 billion for e-commerce and digital projects, such as its platform and new warehouses, in the four fiscal years to January 2017. Wal-Mart acquired a majority stake in Chinese e-commerce firm Yihaodian in 2012 but sold it in June to JD.com Inc, which is China’s second-largest e-commerce company. Despite its investments, Wal-Mart has not projected when its online business might turn a profit and its goal of growing by 20 to 30 percent a year may be tough to achieve. Wal-Mart’s online business has struggled and posted its slowest growth in a year in the latest quarter. Its online sales were $13.7 billion in 2015, according to research firm Internet Retailer. Wal-Mart said recently that all the changes brought on by the e-commerce reboot, including installing a new technology platform and building new warehouses, contributed to its recent slowdown in growth. A July 2015 survey by consulting firm Kantar Retail showed the extent to which Amazon had eaten into WalMart’s customer base. The survey found that 48 percent of shoppers at Wal-Mart Supercenters were placing orders weekly or monthly on Amazon.com, double the percentage shopping at that frequency on Wal-Mart’s own site. Acquiring Jet could help Wal-Mart in establishing a bigger presence online, analysts said. The startup was launched in July 2015 and has raised more than $500 million in capital from venture capital firms. Jet’s initial strategy was to offer large up-front discounts and the lowest prices on items based on a unique pricing formula that took into account factors like basket size, for an annual $50 fee. But three months after launch, Jet changed strategy and eliminated its subscription model. Wal-Mart shares closed 0.3 percent lower at $72.94 on the New York Stock Exchange.
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Samsung’s new jumbo phone unlocks with iris scanner
NEW YORK — You’ll be able to unlock Samsung’s new phone by just looking at it. The Galaxy Note 7 will come with an iris scanner, which matches patterns in your eyes with what was detected by your phone during setup. It offers an alternative to fingerprint ID, which doesn’t work well when fingers are wet. Of course, the fourdigit passcode will still work. “We challenged our engineers to design a security system that’s convenient and safe at the same time,” said Justin Denison, a senior vice president for product strategy at Samsung. “It took five years to perfect, but it only takes a glance to unlock your phone.” Samsung isn’t first, though. Microsoft’s Lumia 950 phones had it. Beyond that, the updates in the Note 7 are mostly enhancements, such as a stronger glass screen and more storage — 64 gigabytes, or double what Samsung usually offers, plus a slot to add more. The Note 7 comes with a better camera — but it’s the same one that the smaller Galaxy S7 phones got in March, save for interface enhancements to access settings and
Jonathan Wong of Samsung’s Knox Product Marketing, shows the iris scanner feature of the Galaxy Note 7, in New York. Samsung releases an update to its jumbo smartphone and virtual-reality headset, mostly with enhancements rather than anything revolutionary during a preview of Samsung products switch between the front and rear regular-size phones in the spring and cameras more easily. jumbo phones in August. This time, Samsung had lost its mojo Samsung has just one large model, after Apple matched the company on which stays at 5.7 inches. It will have size with the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus in curved edges — a well-liked feature 2014, but thanks to the popularity of limited to a special “Edge” model the S7, Samsung just reported its best before. The Note 7 will be available quarterly financial results in two years. in the U.S. starting Aug. 19. Prices The new Note 7 phone comes weeks haven’t been announced. before Apple is expected to announce Samsung is also releasing new models. an updated virtual-reality headset — Samsung typically releases its with a dedicated home button, a wider
field of view and a black interior to improve viewing. The new Gear VR will be available Aug. 19 for $100. A previously announced 360-degree camera called Gear 360 also comes out that day, for $350. As phones mature and innovation slows, VR has been one area in which gadget makers try to entice consumers. As with past Note phones, the Note 7 comes with a stylus. It expands on a feature that lets you magnify text and images by hovering the pen over it. With the pen, people will have ways to easily create and share GIF animations. The Note 7 also expands on a feature to give sensitive files an additional layer of security. You’ll be asked for an iris scan, fingerprint or passcode to access documents you place in a Secure Folder. This way, if you’re handing the phone to friends to browse pictures, you’re not inadvertently giving them access to confidential work documents. In previous phones, Samsung’s Private Mode merely hid files and worked only with selected apps. Samsung says Secure Folder stores sensitive documents and even entire apps in a separate, secure location.
McDonald’s to remove corn syrup Apple CEO touts future technology amid iPhone worries from buns, curbs antibiotics in chicken As iPhone sales declined for the second straight quarter, Apple CEO Tim Cook peeled back the curtain ever so slightly on its work in artificial intelligence and augmented reality, aiming to reassure investors that the company is ready to ride the next wave of technology. Raving about hit smartphone game Pokemon GO, Cook stressed that Apple is “high on [augmented reality] for the long-run” and investing heavily. Augmented reality, in which computer-generated content is overlaid on the real world, is one of the latest fixations in the technology business, with Pokemon GO among the first applications to catch on. Cook also highlighted Apple’s investment in artificial intelligence, which the company now uses to recommend content to users and even spot usage patterns to improve a device’s battery life. It was a small glimpse of the future from the notoriously secretive tech giant, which fiercely guards its product pipeline. But analysts said Cook must do more to show his cards as sales of the iPhone slow. Augmented reality and artificial intelligence are often regarded as an uneasy fit for Apple, a hardware maker that tends not to embrace new technology until it matures. And Apple’s habit of keeping quiet until it has a finished product to show – in contrast with rivals such as Google and Facebook (FB.O), which iterate products in the open – doesn’t help, said analyst Bob O’Donnell of TECHnalysis Research. “They’re in this weird position where they want the world to know that they are working on it, but they have nothing to show for it,” he said. As rivals such as Google and
it may be linked to obesity. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has said it is unaware of any differences in the safety of foods containing equal amounts of corn syrup and sugar, or sucrose. McDonald’s is “following the customers” in switching to sucrose in buns used on Big Macs, Quarter Pounders, hamburgers and other sandwiches, said Marion Gross, senior vice president of McDonald’s North America supply chain. Apple Inc. CEO Tim Cook speaks on stage at the The logo of McDonald’s (MCD) is seen in Los “We know that they don’t feel company’s World Wide Developers Conference in Angeles, California, United States, April 22, good about high-fructose corn syrup so San Francisco, California, U.S., June 13, 2016 2016 we’re giving them what they’re looking McDonald’s Corp (MCD.N) for instead,” she said. Facebook double down on augmented McDonald’s stopped adding an reality, Apple has made no public will replace corn syrup in hamburger display of its aptitude in the field. But buns with sugar this month and artificial preservative to the cooking oil Cook stressed that the company is hard has removed antibiotics that are used to make Chicken McNuggets and important to human medicine from its removed artificial preservatives from at work behind the scenes. “We have been and continue chicken months ahead of schedule, it pork sausage patties, eggs served on to invest a lot in this,” Cook said. “We said on Monday, moves that are part of McGriddles breakfast sandwiches and think there’s great things for customers its drive to target increasingly health- scrambled eggs on breakfast platters. It also removed chicken skin, conscious consumers. and a great commercial opportunity.” The fast food company also said safflower oil and citric acid from the Apple has more to show for its efforts in artificial intelligence, where it eliminated artificial preservatives meat of its McNuggets, swapping it was an early pioneer with its Siri from Chicken McNuggets and several them for pea starch, rice starch and digital assistant. But the company breakfast items, including scrambled powdered lemon juice. Extra costs related to the has been dogged by doubts that it has eggs. McDonald’s is reacting to changes will not be passed on to fallen behind rivals such as Amazon (AMZN.O) and Google and will be hard- a shift in consumer tastes toward consumers, partly because a decline pressed to catch up due to its strict healthier, more natural foods and in commodity prices has reduced some competing with other restaurants that food expenses, Andres said. privacy stance. Last week, McDonald’s said “They are running behind, are overhauling their menus to feature the U.S. restaurant industry will raise and they are trying to catch up both items free of processed ingredients. McDonald’s USA President prices far more than supermarkets this in perception but also in fact,” said Oren Etzioni, who is CEO of the Allen Mike Andres told reporters at the year, sending a chill through a sector Institute for Artificial Intelligence company’s headquarters that the that is searching for ways to protect and a professor at the University of changes announced on Monday will itself from higher worker wages. McDonald’s had previously affect about half its menu and more Washington. planned to stop buying chicken raised Cook maintained that Apple adjustments would follow. Some consumers have turned with antibiotics important to human had found a way to strike the balance between progressing in artificial away from products containing high- medicine from its suppliers, Tyson intelligence and maintaining users’ fructose corn syrup, which is derived Foods Inc (TSN.N) and Keystone privacy, detailing features in Apple’s from corn starch, because of concerns Foods, by March 2017. latest operating system.
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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Calvin Francis not just a Big Baby anymore
When I was watching Calvin Francis push around defensive linemen bigger than him at a recent Nike camp, I couldn’t help but feel like a proud dad. I know we’re not supposed to get attached to the subjects we cover in this business, but we do. And, having watched the athlete they’ve called Big Baby almost since he arrived in the United States, it was easy to be proud of a kid who has set goals and gone out and accomplished them. Not that I had anything to do with his accomplishments, but when I first met the shy, pudgy, baby-faced Bahamian/Haitian kid three years ago, he had lofty goals. He wanted to be a big-time college football lineman, but what I saw was 300 pounds of roly-poly on a 6-foot — if that tall — frame. They called him Big Baby and just looking at his face it was obvious why. “When I met him, he was he was just a big ole baby,” says Elijah Williams, formerly the head football coach at Orlando Oak Ridge High and now the head coach at Orlando Jones High. “He had a soft-spoken voice, real shy. Now he’s opened up more, he talks more, he’s more mature and he’s finally coming into his own. “Football has always been the easy part for him. He’s always one of the strongest kids, one of the hardestworking kids in the weight room. But I’ve seen him transfer from a real shy big baby to a young man.” Coach Will was the one who introduced me to Francis during his freshman season at Oak Ridge. Williams saw the potential in the baby-faced kid. Francis was dead set on becoming a big-time football player, and it has been that sheer desire that has driven him to the player he has become. He came to the U.S. following in the footsteps of his brother and sister before him. His parents of Bahamian and Haitian descent still live in the Turks and Caicos Islands. “My mom will come to Florida sometimes to visit, but my dad doesn’t. … But he’s going to try to make it for my graduation, though,” Francis said. As Williams puts it, Big Baby has been on his own since he’s been here, bouncing back and forth between his sister’s and brother’s homes. What he has accomplished is a testament to his inner strength and desire to be not just the best football player, but the best person he can be.
“Sometimes it’s hard, but I sure about that nickname. In fact, last think about why my dad let me come year he said it was time to retire that to Orlando and that was to get a nickname and he needed a different better education and to have a better one. opportunity to make a better self, a Former Oak Ridge head coach better person of me,” Francis said. Tyrone Sapp even said, “Yeah, he don’t Football has, however, played want that baby part anymore. He just a major role in his life path. wants to be big.” “It all happened when I came He’s certainly evolved from the to Orlando to visit my brother and big baby who arrived five years ago. He sister and when I was on the plane started every game since his I was just talking to this guy and he sophomore said I could be a good football player,” season at Oak Ridge, and this year he Francis said. “I came to Orlando and has transferred to Jones to be with his my brother and former head coach Williams. all his friends — he played football — “Coach Will took me in since and they said I could really be a good I was a freshman. He takes care of football player if I worked at it. me like I’m his son. I’d do anything “When I went back home to for him and he’d do anything for me,” Turks and Caicos and talked to my dad Francis said. Williams has been and he thought about it and said it was most impressed with what Francis a good idea. Back home stuff is going has done off the field. And it’s not just bad. It’s not the best place to raise your his 3.8 GPA or his membership in the kids. So he decided to let me come and National Honor Society. It’s the other stay with my brother and sister.” little things that Francis does on his So he made the big move and own every day that impresses Williams. it was a little difficult in the beginning. “I’ve known him a long time. He had to transition to his new world. His parents aren’t here but he has He also had to get used to his new his brother and sister. I taught both nickname once he hit the football of them when they were in school field. Oak Ridge assistant coach Travis and they’re basically his parents,” Gabriel, who is now at Orlando Boone Williams said. “But he does a good job High, came up with Big Baby and it of keeping himself grounded. He really stuck. doesn’t have a parent figure saying, At first it was a nickname, and hey, ‘It’s time to go to sleep,’ or ‘Do your it at least gave Francis a feeling homework,’ or ‘Don’t go here, don’t do that he was a part of something, like this.’ He just self-manages that. he belonged. As he got older and more “That’s the type of kid he is. I mature, however, Francis wasn’t too think a lot of kids in his situation would
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have fallen by the wayside, but he gets up and goes to school on time, does his homework, all on his own. It speaks volumes for the type of kid he is.” Francis shrugs off what he does as if he’s just living the normal ways of life. “My dad told me at an early age that I was going to have to start doing stuff on my own,” Francis said. “Since then I’ve been able to do a good job of taking care of myself. He showed me how to be a good young man, be responsible and not depend on too many people. … say ‘Yes sir, yes ma’am’ … I just got adjusted to it since I was like seven.” But to most people who know him, he’s still Big Baby. While tossing opposing linemen around at the Nike camp two weeks ago, coaches, players and parents were all yelling at “Big Baby” for encouragement. That’s the problem with nicknames. It usually isn’t a person’s choice, nor is it the nickname owner’s choice to stop the use of the nickname. So it continues, even as Francis continues to get bigger and better. He’s strong, too. He bench presses 360 pounds, squats 525. He’s starting to make the transition to playing offensive center from guard and he is also getting recruited as a defensive tackle. So far he has offers from Akron, UMass and Toledo, but he’s aiming for bigger schools. “That’s what most coaches want me to play. Florida State [line] coach [Rick] Trickett, he’s likes me at center, too,” Francis said.”I just gotta pray on it. I ain’t worrying about it [offers] … just let them start coming in.” Others have seen his steady improvement. He's ranked as the No. 63 overall player in the state by 247Sports. com's 2017 composite rankings and he's No. 20 in the Sentinel's 2017 Central Florida Super60. He’s 6-foot-3, 315 pounds of far more muscle than baby fat now and he no longer wastes his energy on trying to stop the use of his Big Baby nickname. “I guess because of my face. I ain’t got no hair yet. … I like the name, so I’ll just keep rocking with it,” he said. “I’m proud. All my hard work is paying off. One more year of high school and I’m on to the next level where I was to be. If pro football comes about, then that will be another opportunity for me to look forward to.”
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Calvin Francis of Orlando Jones High happy to stay in Florida with FIU commitment Next year when family His recruitment had picked up members of Calvin Francis fly in from some momentum as offers started to the Turks and Caicos Islands to visit, come in this past spring, but then some they can simply jump on the Dolphin offers that he was hoping for never Expressway (State Road 836) from came to fruition. FIU's staff, however, Miami International Airport and be on led by Central Florida-area recruiter the FIU campus in about 20 minutes, Kort Shankweiler (FIU quarterbacks/ traffic willing, of course. wide receivers coach and passing game The 6-foot-2, 295-pound coordinator), has been diligent in Orlando Jones High interior offensive pursuit. lineman committed to play for FIU on "I get the opportunity to stay in Friday and it has long been his goal — Florida at a school that really wanted since coming to the states as a middle- me and needed me and that's really schooler — to play college football in why I committed," said Francis, whose Florida so his parents would not have nickname among his friends is 'Big to go too far to see him play. Baby' due to his boyish looks. "It feels great," Francis said. "I was here waiting for other schools "My parents and family won't have to to offer me but they didn't, and I had go far to see me play. It's right there a school right there who wanted and near the airport, not far to the campus needed me and it was in Florida, so at all. why not ... and I decided to pull the "I talked to my mom and she trigger." was happy and really excited that I The commitment accomplished committed to FIU. She said she was his goal of using football to help pay for glad she made the decision to let me a college education, but Francis said he come to stay in Orlando." has plenty more goals. Since coming to the U.S., "I still gotta get there," Francis Francis has lived with either his laughed, "but at least I know I have brother or his sister in Orlando, where the opportunity to go and I just have to they also moved as youngsters to have keep being humble and doing the right a better life and better education. things. Francis enters his senior Now he can focus on his senior season at Jones after transferring from year and a Jones revival that has fans Orlando Oak Ridge, where he played anxious to get started with new head his first three high school seasons. He coach Elijah Williams. picked FIU over UMass, Toledo and "It makes it easier that I don't Akron. have to worry about where I'm going to
go to school or worrying about having to leave the state and all of that," Francis said. "I know that I'm going to be home in Florida and it will be a lot easier for me. All I have to worry about is football, my grades and graduation." FIU coaches are equally happy to have him on board.
"They like that I'm aggressive and they like the way I handle my business on and off the field," said Francis, who will play either guard or center in college. "They like I'm strong and they just like the way I come with my business."
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CARIBBEAN
SPORTS
Can Jamaica's Yohan Blake outrun his friend Usain Bolt
The night before the men’s the ear hears, the brain sends a signal, 100-meter final at the 2012 London and the body reacts. Blake sprang Olympics, 22-year-old Yohan Blake from his blocks, head down, body could not sleep. The following day’s tilted forward at such an acute angle race would be the most important of he looked like he might fall. His feet his life: The young Jamaican was about hammered into the ground, pushing to compete in his first Olympic final. each knee in turn up to his chest. His Billions of people would be watching arms pumped as he began to raise him try to beat his rivals in a burst of himself into an upright position. speed and power that would last less The U.S. sprinter Justin Gatlin was than 10 seconds. Blake kept getting leading the pack, but Blake was gaining up from his single bed and going to on him, pounding down the track, with the bathroom, thinking over and over Bolt close behind him. again, “Jesus, big race tomorrow.” At the 60-meter mark, Blake By the time the sun rose on was at maximum velocity, his body August 5, he was bleary-eyed and still upright, his strides lengthening. His had a whole day to get through until breaths burned in his chest, the veins the race that evening. He watched a in his neck bulged, and the corners of cricket match on TV, sitting alone amid his mouth stretched back, so it looked the clothes and food cartons strewn like he was grimacing in pain. across his room in the athletes’ village. That’s when he saw Bolt, two A shuttle bus came later that evening lanes over, draw level and then pull and took him to the main stadium, ahead. Blake urged his body to go which was packed with tens of faster, make longer strides, but he was thousands of spectators. Blake had run running out of time. His body tightened here before, for the heats, but now, as under the strain as he attempted a the finalists stepped onto the track, the final burst of speed, but he could not do noise was deafening. it. Bolt widened the gap between them, With the start of the race powering over the line a full stride moments away, Blake and seven of ahead of Blake, who came in second. the fastest men on the planet began Four days later, Blake was stripping off their tracksuits. Blake, again beaten by Bolt, this time in the the youngest of the pack, looked Olympic 200-meter final. That race tired, and the stadium’s floodlights had been his last hope for an individual illuminated the dark circles under his gold medal. He now had four years to eyes. wait for another shot at Olympic glory. The announcer began calling Jamaica's Usain Bolt wins the men's out the names of the sprinters as the 200-meter final just ahead of his TV cameras zoomed in on each of them. training partner, Yohan Blake, during “Richard Thompson, Asafa Powell, the London Olympics on August 9, Tyson Gay… ” Blake was bending 2012. Jorge Silva/Reuters over, adjusting his torn shorts; he had Fast and Fastest cut them with scissors, so they looked Blake, who shares the title of the as if he had slashed them with his world’s second-fastest man with the long fingernails—all part of an image American sprinter Tyson Gay, has had intended to match his nickname, the to spend much of his career watching Beast. As his name echoed around the world’s fastest man, often in the the stadium, he straightened up with next lane. He watches Bolt as they a shoulder ripple he had cribbed from train together; he watches Bolt as Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” music crowds mob him at every opportunity; video, then clawed at the camera, he watches as Bolt regularly lopes past mouthing a roar. He glanced to his him toward the finish line. right and looked at his fellow Jamaican, He watches Bolt because, like most Usain Bolt—the king of crowd-pleasers. of us, he finds it hard to look away. This was the man everyone had come to Bolt is a born entertainer, a giant of see, not some nervous, young hopeful. a man, who is confident, charming But Blake had reason to believe that, and preternaturally fast. Somehow, within the next few minutes, he could Bolt—who calls himself lazy, even if be the Olympic men’s 100-meter that’s something of a ploy to make his champion, snatching the title from remarkable athletic achievements seem Bolt. Less than two months earlier, even more amazing—makes running he had beaten him in the Jamaican at superhuman speeds seem easy, team trials in both the 100-meter something that he fits in around his and 200-meter sprints. Bolt, who playboy lifestyle. (After his 100-meter had won gold at both distances at the victory in London, he tweeted a photo Beijing Games in 2008, held the world of himself with three members of the 100-meter and 200-meter records. But Swedish women's handball team. In in 2012, Blake had run faster than his bedroom. At 3 a.m.) anyone in the world. Blake offers no such illusions. The eight men stood behind Sprinting was his way out of poverty, their blocks. Blake stared down the and he does not pretend to take it lightly. track, swinging his arms to loosen He trains relentlessly, convinced that up. The hushed crowd waited for the time away from the gym or the track is announcer to speak. “On your marks.” time wasted. “I believe if I’m sleeping, The men crouched down, placing their there is this next guy working harder feet on the blocks. “Set.” They lifted up than me,” he says, when we meet their backs. The starting gun fired. in May at Adidas headquarters in For the best sprinters, the time between Herzogenaurach, Germany. “I can’t the crack of the gun and their spikes have him doing that. I always want to exploding off the block is 0.1 seconds; be the best. I have to work for that.
Nothing in life come easy.” Blake and Bolt are friendly, and they support each other—but when they’re on the track, all that vanishes. Three years older than Blake, Bolt is the cool older brother; Blake, shorter and stockier, is his awkward kid brother, forever trying to catch up. But the older brother is nearly 30 now. Bolt has already said the games in Rio de Janeiro will be his last Olympics, so in 2020 Blake will no longer have to compete against the man who has dominated sprinting for the past eight years. Blake isn’t prepared to wait for Bolt to step aside. He has trained tirelessly since those two losses in the London finals. On August 14, if all goes as expected, Blake will face off against Bolt once again in the men’s 100-meter final. It’ll be his last chance to best the world’s greatest sprinter on the Olympic stage.The Beast Is Born Blake was born on December 26, 1989, the sixth of Shirley and Veda Blake’s seven children, in the city of Montego Bay on the northwest coast of the island. Blake’s early years were spent crammed into a two-bedroom house, sharing an outside bathroom with neighbors. The family’s electricity came from an illegal connection Blake describes as “hustled.” “It was rough because there were only two beds in the house and, you know, windows were smashed, the floor was [rotten],” says Blake, who made up to $150,000 per race the year after the 2012 Olympics. “All of us bundled up in one bed, rain is falling [through the roof]. It was crazy.” Blake’s father worked as a bartender and a tailor, but money was still tight, so Blake often skipped school to try to bring in a few dollars to help his parents pay for food. Sometimes, he would collect discarded bottles and redeem them at a local shop; sometimes, he did yard work for his neighbors; sometimes, he had to ask his church for money.
In elementary school, he was bullied because he was so poor. Blake remembers his mother would send him to school wearing a cheap pair of red shoes with a heel, which was all she could afford. “ I used to take off my shoes, because they were so ugly,” he says. “I couldn’t let my friends see me in that. I was so ashamed.” His classmates laughed at him, but Blake had something none of them had—an almost freakish ability to run fast. When Blake was in middle school, his principal, O’Neil Ankle, stepped outside one day to watch some of the boys at the school play cricket. Blake was bowling. In cricket, a bowler often takes a long run-up before releasing the ball toward the batsman. In that brief moment as Blake ran up, Ankle realized that the 13-year-old was wasted on the game. He had talent that could be transcendent in sprinting— that pure discipline of running as fast as humanly possible. He told Blake to enroll at St. Jago’s, a high school with an excellent athletic program, 99 miles away on the other side of the island. Blake left home and went to live with Danny Hawthorne, a coach at the school, and quickly showed he was exceptional. In 2007, aged 17, he posted the fastest 100-meter time for a Jamaican junior sprinter, 10.11 seconds. (The world record at the time, set the year before by Blake’s fellow Jamaican Asafa Powell, was 9.762 seconds.) The next year—his final one at high school—Blake competed at the Inter-Secondary Schools Boys and Girls Championships, the country’s biggest athletics tournament. Champs, as it is known, might sound like countless other events around the world for high school athletes, but in Jamaica it is treated with almost the same reverence as the Olympics. It makes the front pages of the country’s newspapers, and during the competition the 35,000-seat National Stadium is regularly filled to capacity.
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SPORTS
Pacquiao to make ring return against Vargas
Manny Pacquiao will take on American World Boxing Organization welterweight champion Jessie Vargas when he returns to the ring on Nov. 5, according to the Filipino boxer's manager Michael Koncz. "Retirement doesn't suit Manny right now," Koncz told the Los Angeles Times of the former eightdivision world champion. "Boxing is in his blood. When he trains, it's like a pressure-release valve. You can see a dramatic difference in his mood... he's happy. It's amazing what training and fighting does for him." Pacquiao (58-6-2) had announced his retirement after defeating Timothy Bradley in April and was elected to the Philippines' senate in May. His promoter Bob Arum
announced last month that he would fight again in November. Arum tweeted earlier this week that he would travel to the Philippines for a meeting on Aug. 10 to discuss the 37-year-old southpaw's return. Koncz, who will also attend the meeting, said the trio were not discussing a potential opponent, but whether to stage the bout in Los Angeles or Dubai. "That's the essence of the meeting," Koncz added. "Not choosing the opponent. That's already been done." Pacquiao's unanimous decision win Philippine boxing star and Senator Manny Pacquiao speaks during a news conference after being over Bradley was his first fight in proclaimed by elections officials as one of the new members of the upper house of Congress in Manila, nearly a year after his tame loss to Philippines May 19, 2016. and has won 10 of his bouts via a Floyd Mayweather. He had said he was bringing the curtain down on his The 27-year-old Vargas (27-1) beat knockout or stoppage, with his only career to concentrate on politics and fellow American Sadam Ali in March defeat coming via a points loss to Bradley in June 2015. his family. to claim the WBO welterweight crown
FIFA bribery trial could start in First-ever refugee team Sept. or Oct. 2017: U.S. judge ascends to Rio's Christ statue
The federal judge overseeing the wide-ranging corruption case involving soccer's global governing body FIFA said on Wednesday that a trial for eight defendants could begin in September or October of 2017. U.S. District Judge Raymond Dearie in Brooklyn at a hearing said that federal prosecutors had sought an early 2017 trial date, but given the amount of evidence still being processed, that September or October of next year was more realistic. The trial would involve seven former soccer officials and one exmarketing executive who are among the 42 individuals and entities charged so far in a case that has rocked the soccer world. All eight defendants had previously pleaded not guilty. The judge said he wanted the case to move forward, noting the first of the eight defendants before him appeared in court in May 2015. "At some point, we're going to have to call it," Dearie said. The potential trial date was announced as Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan Norris disclosed that prosecutors expect to bring additional charges in the case, though he said that it was "too early to say" if additional defendants would be charged. "Our ongoing investigation does continue," Norris said. "It is quite active and quite broad." U.S. prosecutors accuse the defendants of participating in schemes involving more than $200 million in bribes and
kickbacks, both sought and received by soccer officials for marketing and broadcast rights to tournaments and matches. The investigation has plunged Zurich-based FIFA and the sport's regional governing bodies into an unprecedented crisis. Gianni Infantino, FIFA's newly elected president, has vowed to restore the organization's tattered image. To date, 16 people and two sports marketing companies have pleaded guilty in the U.S. case. Most recently, Brayan Jimenez, a former president of Guatemala's soccer federation, pleaded guilty on Friday. The eight defendants facing the potential trial next year include former FIFA officials and executive committee members Jose Maria Marin of Brazil, Juan Angel Napout of Paraguay, Eduardo Li of Costa Rica, and Julio Rocha of Nicaragua. Others include Miami-based sports marketing executive Aaron Davidson, Hector Trujillo, a judge from Guatemala and ex-official with its soccer federation, ex-Cayman Islands soccer official Costas Takkas, and ex-Venezuelan soccer official Rafael Esquivel. Dearie said he would set an exact date for their trial in an order following the court hearing. The judge is also expected to hear a potential request for an even earlier trial date for at least one - Napout - of the defendants.
Members of the Olympic refugee team including Yusra Mardini from Syria (C) pose in front of Christ the Redeemer Members of the first-ever women includes five athletes from Olympic refugee team visited Rio South Sudan, two from Syria, two de Janeiro's iconic Christ statue from Democratic Republic of Congo Saturday, with smiles as wide as their and one from Ethiopia. arms were outstretched, imitating They will compete in the landmark's open embrace as they swimming, judo and athletics. posed for photos. After posing for photos with A mist of light clouds softened tourists at the Christ the Redeemer the afternoon light, giving the statue, James Nyang Chiengjiek, a athletes who come from harrowing track and field athlete from South backgrounds a heavenly glimpse of Sudan to compete in the 400 meter run, one of the world's most beautiful cities, said since he arrived Friday he had with its golden sand beaches, blue been warmly welcomed everywhere in ocean and lush green Atlantic rain Rio. forest below. "All the people are so happy. Standing at the base of the They are waiting for us in the airport, statue, Yusra Mardini, a swimmer they are so happy to see us," he said. who fled Syria's war and trains in "We have so many friends, it is good to Germany, said that the entire refugee interact with them." team was elated to be in Rio "because Another South Sudanese all of them have the same strong track athlete, Rose Nathike Lokonyen, feeling about never giving up, and who will compete in the 800 meter run, they did a lot to reach here." said the entire team was surprised to Rio's Olympics that open this be taking part in the Games. Friday and run through Aug. 21 are "In our lifetime we never the first to include a team entirely of thought that running could be refugees, which includes ten athletes something that can have a benefit," from four countries who will compete she said. "But right now I am really under the Olympic flag. interested, and have an interest in The team of six men and four sport."
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WORLD SPORTS
Athletes say Village much Kim Collins: Veteran improved but gripes remain sprinter breaks the Despite lingering issues with plumbing and laundry, athletes and training staff say the Olympic Village is much improved, nine days after blocked toilets and exposed wiring forced the Australian team to move. Organizers hired around 600 people to work on repairing the 31-building complex housing more than 17,000 participants at the Rio de Janeiro Games and within days they had coaxed the Aussies back. "At first we had some problems but
they were fixed and we're happy construction. with the place. The rooms are even However, conditions are a far cry bigger than in London (2012)," from those on July 24 that the said Australian canoe coach Mike Australians called "not safe or Druce on Tuesday. ready" for the Games which start on Friday. Not everything is perfect though. The Argentines are Rio officials called the issues complaining about weak water "teething troubles." pressure in the bathrooms while Most athletes had high praise Brazilian handballer Jose Toledo for the Village kitchens with the said the laundry service was less exception of Portuguese gymnast Felipa Martins. than perfect. Several Olympians also I thought the food was sonoted a film of dust in most so but maybe that's because we eat rooms from the recently finished so well in Portugal," she said.
A view of the Athlete Village prior to the 2016 Rio Olympics games
American rivals to feel 'full wrath' of lightning quick Bolt Usain Bolt is promising to let American sprinter Justin Gatlin "feel his full wrath" as he zones in on an unprecedented treble-treble of gold medals at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics. Bolt was given a medical exemption by Jamaican officials to compete at the Rio Games after he pulled a hamstring during the Olympic trials and Gatlin wasted little opportunity in trying to get under the 29-year-old's skin. Gatlin said the six-time Olympic gold medalist had been given 'a medical pass' to compete and Bolt said on Wednesday that had only served to fuel his desire to shut the American up by proving himself on the track. "Yes definitely, I think they have not learned over the years that the more you talk, the more I will want to beat you," Bolt
told Reuters on Wednesday. "It's one of those things, but I'm looking forward to it, should be exciting and they will feel my full wrath as always." Bolt, who returned to action in the 200 meters at last month's Diamond League meeting in London, said he felt he was in better shape ahead of the opening race of his program on Aug. 13 -- the 100 meters -than he was for last year's world championships in Beijing. "I'm feeling much more confident now," he added. "I'm much more comfortable with where I'm at. "I never try to predict times, because you never know what will happen. But for me the shape I'm in, I'll say I'm in much better shape, so I think 9.6 seconds definitely."
Jamaica's Usain Bolt celebrates after winning the Men's 200m
Bolt's world record for the 100 is 9.58 seconds. He ran 9.79 in clinching his third world championships title last year in Beijing. As for his preferred 200, Bolt said he and coach Glen Mills had been pleased with the work they had been doing on the bend after some "rust" in London, when he ran 19.89. "We've been doing a lot of work since I've been here, everything has been going well, I've been feeling great and I have no problem so I'm happy with the progress I'm making," he said. "It was just rust for me, having not run the 200 in over a year pretty much, but now I've familiarized myself back with the work, and it's just about going out there and executing."
boundaries of time
The clock may be ticking, but time is still on Kim Collins' side. Athletes have come and gone throughout the duration of his career, but he has defied studies that suggest sprinters peak in their mid-to-late twenties. At 40, the runner from Saint Kitts and Nevis will be the oldest sprinter at this month's Rio 2016 Olympics, and is already the oldest male to have competed in the IAAF World Indoor Championships -- finishing eighth in the 60 meters in Oregon in March. In May, he ran a personal best of 9.93 seconds in the 100 meters in Germany, making him the first 40-year-old to go under 10s. It beat his previous record of 9.96 from London in 2014, when he was 38. "I've been trying to retire for the longest while, but each time I think about that I keep running faster -- and you think that the best is yet to come," Collins told CNN. "I felt good and confident. The body just takes over and says, 'Hey, this is what we've been training for. This is what we've been working towards. And we're going to get it right today.' "I'm looking forward to getting it right many more times." Collins made his Olympic debut in 1996 when his Caribbean island nation made its first appearance at the Summer Games. At Sydney 2000 he was the first athlete from St. Kitts and Nevis to reach a final, which he repeated at Athens 2004 in the 100m and Beijing 2008 in the 200m. At London 2012 he had the honor of being his country's flag bearer, but he did not compete after being dropped from the team for leaving the athletes' village to stay in a hotel with his wife -also his coach -- and their kids. Collins is still working with his wife Paula, and says "she's doing a fantastic job." "I listen well, and I'm a good student and she's a good teacher -- it makes a good recipe." Collins has never finished higher than sixth at the Olympics -- indeed, his country has yet to win a medal -- but he was the world 100m champion in 2003 and claimed gold at the previous year's Commonwealth Games, with several silvers and bronzes from international competitions. He has the ninth-fastest 100m time outdoors this year, so making the eight-man final in Rio will be an achievement -- but Collins has higher hopes. He'll be up against the likes of Usain Bolt -seeking to complete a "triple triple" -- and American Justin Gatlin. "Gold, silver, bronze, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth; all things are possible. But I think it's going to be a great event regardless and the competition will always be tough," he says. "You just have to think about running the race that you've been training for and just hope for the best."
Kim Collins
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