VOLUME 14 ISSUE 07

VOLUME 14 - NO. 07

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

Website: www.suntci.com

Email: sun@suntci.com

Tel: (649) 348-6838

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PROSECUTOR ANDREW MITCHELL UNDER SEVERE PUBLIC PRESSURE

by Hayden Boyce Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

B

ritish prosecutor Andrew Mitchell, QC, is under intense pressure and fierce criticism from the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) public, following the revelation that he secretly purchased a milliondollar mansion on Providenciales from funds that included TCI tax payers’ money.

Ever since The SUN broke the story about his US$1.25 million mansion two weeks ago, Mitchell has been under attack from, and rebuked by, persons on social media, on call-in programmes, in social gatherings, restaurants, churches and other public places.

Several persons have called for him to leave the Turks and Caicos Islands, while others have asked for him to be investigated by British Authorities.

Many persons countrywide have criticised Mitchell for his sneaky purchase (he bought the house through a shell company),

and for what some have described as hypocrisy, given that he is prosecuting some defendants in the ongoing SIPT corruption trial for similar practices.

Others have slammed his lavish lifestyle which they say he enjoys off the backs of tax payers, many of whom are finding it difficult to recover after the Turks and Caicos Islands were hit by hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017.

Mitchell currently lives at a penthouse at The Yacht Club in Turtle Cove, where he has thrown lavish parties, some of which were attended by persons of questionable character and sexual orientation.

Some critics have also blasted Mitchell for what they perceive as the bad timing of his million dollar purchase and a few persons have even called on him to be investigated to determine if he has been paying the required amount of taxes in the United Kingdom (UK).

Continued on page 2

Queen’s Counsel Andrew Mitchell, aka, “Boy George”, because of his uncanny resemblance to the British pop star.

Civil Service commits to improve service delivery and enforcement programs

A

s a part of its efforts to improve service delivery and enforcement across government, a meeting was held with all Permanent Secretaries along with their Deputy Secretaries and Directors on Tuesday February 6th, 2018 at the Life Center in Grand Turk.

The meeting which focused on the 5 key areas of: Recruitment, Training & Development, Performance Management, Enforcement and Service Delivery, was led by Deputy Governor, Anya Williams and attended by His Excellency Governor Dr. John Freeman who brought remarks and also spoke to the senior management team on the expectations of the public service.

Continued on Page 2

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Page 2

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

LOCAL NEWS PROSECUTOR ANDREW MITCHELL UNDER SEVERE PUBLIC PRESSURE Continued from Page 1

There is no indication or started!!” suggestion, however, that Mitchell On Wednesday, February 14, has been involved in any criminal 2018, Mitchell, who many in legal and wrongdoing or acted illegally. other circles in TCI have described as

“In the interest of transparency, petty, spiteful, and who has repelled the UK Government should be checking many by his vindictive and conniving to see how often Mitchell goes back to antics, took a serious legal jab at Williams the UK, how long he stays in TCI, how and her travel agency Provo Travel, by much money he has in this country, and insinuating that the company and its if he is paying taxes in the UK,” said owner were involved in questionable a businessman who did not want to financial deeds. identified.

On Friday February 16, Mitchell also

One of the leaders of the social took the opportunity in court to attack media campaign against Mitchell on The SUN newspaper and its publisher Facebook, has been Althea Ewing- Hayden Boyce, in what observers said Williams, the wife of former Premier was a blatant abuse of his prosecutorial Hon. Galmo “Gilley” Williams and the powers. Neither Boyce nor Williams are sister of former Premier Hon. Dr. Rufus defendants in the case.

Ewing.

“That’s the nature of beast called Andrew

On her Facebook page, Ewing- Mitchell,” said one attorney, who asked Williams stated: “ Andrew Mitchell not to be identified. “He would stop at purchased a home here because he felt nothing to get a conviction and he would comfortable, he is very much within take any and every opportunity in court, his comfort zone. Let’s send Andrew which is his stage, to bring down people Mitchell a clear message that we do not who cannot defend themselves there. like him! We do not like him being here! He’s a horrible person!”

We do not welcome him living in our In addition to Ewing-Williams, country! And when the case is over, he is many persons on Facebook expressed over and should be on the next plane out their disgust and displeasure for Mitchell. of the TCI. We need an inquiry into the The SUN was reliably informed that inquiry. What was Andrew Mitchell’s there is a protest being planned worth before he came here? What is againstMitchell.

Andrew Mitchell’s worth now? Of all the Meantime, some of the other slaps we have had to endure in our faces comments on Facebook stated: “No here in our own country, this SLAP is matter what others might call it. I call the biggest one. Andrew, at least take what the SIPT is doing to us...Rape! the money you made off our peoples back With a condom nevertheless but rape is and go back home, (as in the UK) and rape. We need our schools to be repaired purchase a house there, but to use OUR and more schools build, we need road, money and purchase a Multi Million we need clinics, the list can go on and Dollar Mansion here in the TCI, this on regarding our needs in this country pills is too BIG to swallow and we refuse not what we want but NEED! SIPT your to swallow it! time has expire and expired things gets

Let’s get this demonstration thrown out.”

One outspoken person said: “ I almost choked on my pork chop bone when i saw the picture of the mansion bought by the prosecutor of the alleged corruption case. They came down here many many too many moons ago to stop our progress,to make sure we stayed under heavy manners so they would forever be called his Excellency and her Majesty, while they call us belongers and subjects.

“Come on man you come down here seize the Premier Mansion and then you go buy one just as big as or bigger than what he had ? what kind of message are you trying to convey ? is it the message that our people are not good enough ? our people must stay in their place while as the national anthem say you reign over us ?

Turks and Caicos we need to stop and ponder this , eight years and counting all expense paid vacations two penthouse numerous cars all paid for by us. Eight years of inflated salaries yet we do not have police cars we dont have ambulances school buses and our healt care system needs overhauling , but we sit quiet as they get rich of this elaborate scheme.

“That money could have built schools, purchased real border patrol vessels to protect our borders,when will we rise up and say shut this shiggady down enough is enough . It seems the whole turks and caicos has gone mad even a fool such as i know you do not spend a thousand dollars to go looking for a dollar.

People this is on us let me be clear this government nor the opposition will lift a finger to hault this kangaroo court because they all fear the cries of those who still see promise in Michael

Misick but we need to move beyond this .

For me this is not about Michael Missick it is about us , it is about taking away our sense of pride , our power and simply putting us in our place.

Until we rise up and remember those brothers and sisters are ours , and take on the mentality of those in the aparthied struggle we will all be subjects. we must stand together and realize an injury to one is an injury to all we can not be silent any longer.

Take a look around you and tell me who among us are prosperous ? it is not you and i. may god give us the wisdom the courage and understanding.

A man can never ride your back unless it is bent get up my people straighten your backs, walk upright and proud stop giving everyone a free ride.

Remember they do not defend our land or give us cause to sing with heart and voice god save our Queen.”

Another said: “Well, this time we fight back! And it’s time they ALL leave! Every last one! Yes take to take a stand Enough is Enough.”

Another user added: “The British accused our former premier and others ministers of corruption now someone need to have a investigation on him / them. He has to leave now right now this is to much we hardky can buy food to eat and these people coming here getting rich.”

One user stated: Lord of mercy what else can you except with a slap inour face. He neef to dont let the sun down on him he must leave.”

Yet another stated: “Lets get it going he need to pack up n gooo..I am ready lets do this cuz im tired of s.i.p.t now dey servin no purpose. He needs to go...let’s get to work!

Civil Service commits to improve service delivery and enforcement programs Continued from Page 1

The Deputy Governor noted the success of the 2017/2018 recruitment program which resulted in a number of key appointments across government. A total of 227 both new and vacant potions were advertised throughout the year, with the final recruitment process currently underway.

On training and development the success of the Professional Development which is in its third year of operation was noted and the civil servants that were able to participate in this program through the various scholarships, grants and professional development programs were congratulated on their success.

Departments were encouraged to submit their new training needs for 2018 and to encourage more

participation across the civil service in this vital program.

On Performance Management, Managers were reminded of the requirements of the performance appraisal system and the need to ensure that job descriptions were continuously updated to align with duties and responsibilities and that staff were carrying out the necessary tasks assigned to them. The completion of the increment policy which is tied to the Performance Appraisal system was noted with advice being given that implementation would require approval for additional funding.

On Enforcement, a new work program is being launched which will set a requirement for law enforcement/compliance agencies to have a minimum of at least two field

days per week, with reports of these activities and the success of each program being reported on a monthly basis.

While on the overarching theme of service delivery, departments committed to ensuring that their departments work to fulfill their mandate and that where necessary improvements and or adjustments would be made to improve their interface with their clients.

Commenting on the launch of the new work program Deputy Governor Anya Williams said; “The civil service performs a vital service on behalf of the people of these islands in terms of education, healthcare, social services, revenue collection and enforcement and we are grateful for the roles that persons continue to play

each day.

The Civil Service like any other organization has its challenges, but we are committed to reform and to positive change in the areas where necessary.

As we move into another financial year and look to the years ahead our goal is to build on the numerous successes of the past and to continue to seek innovative ways to further enhance our services.

We have recruited a number of key positions throughout the year including in Border Control, Infrastructure, Finance and other key areas which coupled with proposed investments in systems and infrastructure will help to improve service delivery across government in the years to come.”

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 5

LOCAL NEWS

Identities of persons killed in tragic plane crash still unknown

By Todeline Defralien

Months after a small plane crashed after take-off in Providenciales, officials still have not yet released the identities of the two persons who died in the incident on Saturday, December 23rd, 2017.

Normally, once the victim(s) next of kin have been notified the identities are made public.

When The SUN contacted Police to ascertain the identities of the individuals, Deputy Commissioner of Police Trevor Botting said this investigation is being managed by the Air Accident Investigation Branch in the UK and any enquiries should be directed to them.

The SUN also contacted the Air Accident Investigation Branch in the

UK and Mr. James Hotson confirmed that two persons were on board the aircraft although he could not release the names.

He said, “Two people were on board the aircraft. Their next of kin are being kept informed of the progress of the investigation. Our regulations do not allow us to release the names of people involved in air accidents, other than in a court of law. The Coroner may be able to provide this information.”

Sergeant Kevin Clarke in a release issued to media houses on Friday January 5th added: “The Air Crash that occurred on 23rd December 2017 is being investigated by the Air Accident Investigations Branch (AAIB) in the UK. There have been a number of requests for further information and the RT&CIPF are working with

GOVERNMENT VACANCIES – (APPLICATION DEADLINE: 23rd FEBRUARY 2018) Job Title: DEPARTMENT: LOCATION: Salary:

Environmental Health Officers - KHB10-01 Environmental Health Department South and Providenciales Grade 6 - $33,415.00 plus allowances

JOB SUMMARY To provide professional position in the nursing service focused on promoting and restoring patients’ health through the utilization of the nursing process; collaborating with multidisciplinary team members; providing physical and psychological support to patients, friends and families; supervising assigned team members.

JOB TITLE: DEPARTMENT: LOCATION: SALARY:

Forensic Audit Specialist – LWB10-03 National Audit Office Providenciales Grade 10.1 - $73,185.00 per annum plus allowances

An aerial photo of the plane crash in Providenciales the AAIB and the families of those as possible with further information who lost their lives to allow for further regarding those persons involved in information to be released. A further this tragic incident.” statement will follow as soon

documentation for approval, ensures all transactions are properly recorded.

The incumbent will also manage databases, systems for filing and secure all documentsthat is sensitive and/or confidential.

JOB TITLE: DEPARTMENT: LOCATION: SALARY:

Director of Maritime -CFB10-06 Maritime Department Providenciales Grade 9 - $59,552.50 per annum

JOB SUMMARY: The post is a senior management position mandated to oversee the efficient enforcement of applicable maritime laws and proper implementation of the duties and responsibilities of the Department; to conduct policy review and analyses, and to propose appropriate legislative action; to perform SWOT analyses and strategic planning to address both short and long-term issues and challenges of the Department.

JOB TITLE: DEPARTMENT: LOCATION: SALARY:

Develop Control Officer – CBB10-07 Planning Department Providenciales Grade 5 -$26,650.00 per annum

JOB SUMMARY: The Forensic Audit Specialist has responsibility for leading forensic audits and investigations in all areas (financial, operational and information systems) to assess deficiencies/anomalies/irregularities/fraudulent transactions, evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of management controls to ensure operating objectives are achieved, financial statements are reliable and the entity is in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The position also advises on fraud risk management strategies and dealing with regulatory and similar assignments. The position will report to the Auditor General, with the need to continuously adapt and evolve to keep ahead of fraud trends/risks and emerging schemes.

JOB SUMMARY This is a junior position with responsibility for the enforcement of the Physical Planning Ordinance and the regulations made thereunder throughout TCI. The job holder will assist in ensuring the enforcement of the Code, educate the public and liaise as required regarding amendments to the Planning and Building Regulations.

JOB TITLE: Superintendent of Prisons – CFB10-04 DEPARTMENT: Her Majesty’s Prison LOCATION: Grand Turk SALARY: Grade 10 - $73185.00 per annum and Allowances -

$24,560.00 per annum JOB SUMMARY: The Superintendent of Prisons has national responsibility for the effective management of Her Majesty’s Prison Service in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The Job holder will ensure compliance with Prison Ordinance and regulations, protection of the public and the welfare of Prisoners, international standards on the detention of persons and will be an effective partner within the wider criminal justice network. The Job holder will oversee and direct Prison policy and reform to ensure compliance with the Government’s Mission and Vision Statements as it relates to the Prison Service and the wider requirements of international law.

JOB SUMMARY Customer’s services is an integral part of the Department of an organization, especially one like the Ministry of Border Control Customer Service Department known as the One Stop Shop. It means communicating with the customers and answering their queries both locally and internationally. Hence, the customer services team is dedicated towards making sure that the customer queries are resolved on time and that they are satisfied with the organization, thereby leaving a good impression.

JOB TITLE: DEPARTMENT: LOCATION: SALARY:

Administrative Officer – CFB10-05 Culture Department Providenciales Grade 5: $26,650.00 per annum

JOB SUMMARY: The incumbent in this post will be responsible for preparing appropriate

JOB TITLE: DEPARTMENT: LOCATION: SALARY:

Customer Service Clerk – JCB10-08 Customer Service Center Providenciales Grade 4 - $21,935.00 per annum

For more details regarding this position, kindly refer to the attached documents or visit www.gov.tc.

Please ensure that all applications submitted by email clearly states the Job Title in the subject line of the email and all applications received via hard copy is clearly marked with the Job Title.

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

LOCAL NEWS

Crime on the decline, says Commissioner Third quarter crime data announced

With the continued hard that period, we have detected 28% work and dedication of all staff, and of reported crimes, up from 22% for in line with the Commissioner’s the same period last year,” he said. commitment to keep the public “We now have data covering the informed, Commissioner of Police first nine months of the year, and Mr. James Smith, is pleased to that downward trend continues.” release Crime Data for the third Smith said that from April quarter of 2017/2018, covering the to December, they have recorded months of October, November and 1756 crimes, 279 less crimes than the year before and 582 less than December.

This data covers all crime same nine months in 2015/16. reported in the Turks and Caicos This means that on the year to Islands. date, crime is down 14% in this

“I am delighted to report nine month period when compared that we have recorded 426 crimes, to last year, he said. down from 667 in the same period “It is pleasing to note that, last year – a decrease of 36%. In although just nine months of data,

the average numbers of crimes per day has decreased from nine in 2015/16, to seven in 2016/17 and currently sits at five crimes per day. My officers will continue to monitor crime patterns, target offenders and bring offenders to justice. We recognized a small rise in armed criminality recently in the Blue Hills area and we are actively targeting those responsible. I would ask for the continued support of the public and businesses to ensure that we keep the Country safe,” Smith added.

Commissioner of Police Mr. James Smith

Commonwealth Games releases the team for Gold Coast 2018

Recently the entire Turks and Caicos Islands witnessed the prestigious Queen’s Baton Relay with hundreds of persons participating in the run from South Caicos in the South, Grand Turk and Salt Cay in the East, Providenciales, North and Middle Caicos all had a chance to see the Royal Baton which is the curtain raiser to the Commonwealth Games 2018 that will be held in Gold Coast, Australia from 4th – 15th April, 2018.

This festival of Sport and Culture, held every 4 years, signifies the convergence of all 70 Commonwealth Nations and Territories. Athletes from each of these countries will be competing to

make their name and country proud in this the 21st Edition of the Commonwealth Games. Of course our little TCI will be featured with some 10 Athletes and 5 officials. Today, the President of the Commonwealth Games Mr. Alvirto Smith has announced the Team that will represent Turks and Caicos as Athletes and Ambassadors.

The team will be led by Chef de Mission Mr. Levard Misick, who 20 years ago was one of the first Athletes to participate in the Commonwealth Games after TCI status was reestablished in 1998 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Athletes Shooting: Ms. Latoya Rigby

Mr. Dovar Moultrie Athletics: Ms. Akia Guerrier

Mrs. Yanique Haye-Smith

Mr. Ifeanyichuwku Otuonye

Mr. Angelo Garland

Mr. Devante Gardiner

Mr. Frantzley Benjamin

Mr. Kivarno Handfield

Qualified Islanders need only to apply copying applications to the Commissioner of Labour& Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range: $6.25 - $7.00 per hour

DATE OPEN: February 19, 2018 POSITION: Houseman

START DATE: ASAP

Job Responsibilities:A houseman’s primary job duties include cleaning and maintaining guest rooms, bathrooms, work areas, furnishings and carpets.

Cleaning rooms includes duties such as changing bed linens and emptying trash as well as vacuuming carpets and dusting furniture. You’ll also replenish guest supplies, such as hand soap and shampoo. Your duties don’t end with guest rooms, however, because you’re responsible for cleaning common areas, such as banquet and meeting rooms. Secondary duties may include shoveling snow from walkways, assisting bellmen, answering guest questions and helping the front desk person.

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: $6.25 - $7.00 per hour

DATE OPEN: February 19, 2018 POSITION: Housekeeper

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 company-related practices This position is currently held by an expatriate worker

DATE OPEN: February 19, 2018 START DATE: ASAP POSITION: Kitchen Steward

Job Overview: Transport and clean cooking utensils and service ware in order to provide cooks, bus persons and food and food servers with appropriate equipment for guests’ dining experience, also clean physical surroundings while caring enough to do it well by adhering to the hotel standards, A few of their duties would entail promptly and carefully sorting soiled ware so that it can be put through the dish or pot machine properly; quickly washing ware and replacing them in storage areas as designated and ensuring the dish machine is properly cleaned and filled with water per hotel standards. Shifts varies. 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:$6.25 - $6.75 per hour DATE OPEN: February 19, 2018 START DATE: ASAP POSITION: Pool and Beach Manager Job Requirements: •Manage and oversee pool and beach supervisors and attendants: Plan and organize workloads and staff assignments for staff •Meet regularly with staff for briefing and training •Monitor time sheets and prepare payroll reports •Ensure that all equipment and tools are available and to give the guests the best vacation possible 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: $3,500 - $4,000 per month

Interested persons can contact our Human Resources Department no later than March 16, 2018 @ (649) 946-5050 Ext. 1066 Email: hr@gracebayclub.com Fax: (649) 946-5758 P.O. Box 128 Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, British West Indies

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 7

LOCAL NEWS

High cancer rate a cause for concern

By Oswald Skippings

The extremely unusual high rate of cancer, strokes and heart attacks that is prevalent in the Turks and Caicos and increasing at a rapid pace, is justifiable cause for national alarm in this country as our young and old people alike are prematurely dying off almost weekly.

One of the possible causes that does not require a scientist to justifiably identify as such, is the potentially poisonous food that we consume on a daily basis that is imported from dubious food sources such as China and God knows where else.

There is a tendency in this

country for government to pay some trivial lip service to an emerging serious problem as this, maybe seek some outside help and then go quiet and let the serious issue prevail as the problem intensifies.

However, the will to persistently and effectively deal with such problems is seldom there and is too often replaced with nonchalance and apathy and the hope that the problem would somehow just go away.

Until such time as we await any outside scientific help, there are two steps that our Turks and Caicos government may immediately take that are not costly.

These steps are, have our

environmental personnel as they check the supermarket shelves and freezers determine exactly where our food supplies originate and secondly, immediately ban all foodstuffs that originate in China.

It is universally recognized that China is known for not having stringent food safety regulations and inspectors while they persist in utilizing unorthodox and unhealthy methods in growing their food, feeding their livestock and processing their foods.

Therefore, banning all foodstuffs from China would be a prudent and no doubt a sensible precautionary move on behalf of our government. The lives they potentially save may include theirs.

Oswald Skippings

Long Bay High School embarks on anti-drug campaign

The Long Bay High School embarked on a Psycho Educational Program last school year commencing December 7, 2017- January 25, 2018 to educate male students about the harmful effects of substance abuse.

The pilot group that consisted of 13 boys was mentored by the Guidance and Counseling Department in collaboration with the Department of Youth Affairs.

The facilitators of the program

were Ms. Diane Paul, Guidance Counselor who is also a certified substance abuse counselor and Mr. Nixon Dickenson, Youth Director (acting).

The topics covered during the program helped students to be aware of the dangers of drug use, resistance skills and focused on social challenges that contribute to drug use.

The culminating ceremony was held on February 8, 2018 on the school’s campus

which was attended by parents of the participants.

The feature address was given by Mr. Nixon Dickenson, remarks from the school’s principal and a testimonial by Rodlin Yliodas one of the participants. Each student received a certificate of participation.

The Long Bay High School remains committed to the holistic development of our students as we prepare them for lifelong learning.

PROVO GOLF CLUB

TCINIB PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT

National Insurance (Amendment) Ordinance 2017

Provo Golf Club is seeking a suitably qualified individual to fill the following opening. Only candidates who meet the minimum requirements will be considered.

GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES •Plan and schedule maintenance processes and procedures •Instruct, train and direct staff in golf course maintenance •Oversees fertilizer, chemical and pesticide applications •Run irrigation systems, including daily setup and maintenance •Proven organizational skills to maintain accurate records of all processes •Responsible for the safe operation, storage and effective use of all equipment •Responsible for the proper use, storage and preservation of all associated materials, supplies and assigned equipment REQUIREMENTS •Must have a Bachelor’s degree or Associate degree in Agronomy or Horticulture plus a minimum of six years experience on a golf course with three years experience as an Assistant Golf Superintendent • Must have at least a Class C Membership with the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) • Must have advance knowledge of agronomy and turf grass management practices • Require extensive knowledge of golf course maintenance • Requires knowledge of landscape construction and materials • Ability to analyze data and prepare reports • Strong computer skills using Microsoft Word and Excel • Must have a thorough understanding of the game of golf The remuneration for this position is commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Please submit applications to: Veronica Rigby, Provo Golf Club, P.O. Box 124, Regent House, The Regent Village, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, Tel: (649) 946-5126; Fax (649) 946-5191; Email: ronnie@habgroup.com.

Interested Belongers must also submit copies of their application to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2. Closing date for application is 5th March 2018.

The Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board hereby informs the general public of the following amendments to the National Insurance Ordinance which took effect February 1, 2018.

The National Insurance (Amendment) Ordinance 2017 Bill amends the National Insurance Ordinance to make provision for the unpaid national insurance certificate and the garnishment of wages.

Unpaid National Insurance Certificate A provision has been made in relation to the civil recovery of sums owed to the NIB under the Ordinance, that the Director will have the discretion to certify the sums owed in a certificate called an unpaid national insurance certificate, which would be filed and registered in the Magistrates’ court. The certificate would have the effect of a judgment after twenty-one (21) days, unless the person to whom the certificate relates files a defense within fourteen (14) days of receipt of the certificate.

The vast majority of the National Insurance Board cases filed in court take a very long time before a decision is given. Very often cases are on the court docket in excess of a year. The NIB is seeking to expedite this process for the benefit of employees who are depending on contributions to be paid in order for their claimsto be processed and paid. The proposed amendment would greatly reduce the amount of time that NIB cases are in the court system before a judgment is given.

Garnishment of Wages The National Insurance Ordinance now makes provision for the garnishment of wages where a person is indebted to the Fund and there is liability by a third party to make a payment to the person who owes the NIB. The Director in such circumstances may deliver to the person (third party), a demand for payment not exceeding one-third (1/3) of the sum payable to the person until the debtis fully paid.

Any person who receives a demand for payment and fails to pay the Board the sums specified commits an offence and is liable upon conviction to a fine of $5000 or to a term of imprisonment of six months or to both.

Page 8

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

LOCAL NEWS

Operating Room Nurses at TCI Hospital become Certified Endoscope Reprocessing Trainers Two Operating Room Nurses at Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital are now certified trainers for Endoscope Reprocessing following the completion of a course offered by the Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates (SGNA). Senior Registered Nurses, Haydee Dayupay and Jenifer Masiclat, recently travelled to Plymouth, Minnesota to complete the training requirements.

The Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates (SGNA) is a professional organization of nurses and associates dedicated to the safe and effective practice of gastroenterology and endoscopy. SGNA is accredited as a provider of Continuing Nursing Education by the American Nurses Credentialing Centre’s Commission on Accreditation.

The certification allows the Surgical Services Department at Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital to incorporate the latest international standards, guidelines and techniques to ensure endoscopes are cleaned safely and effectively.

An endoscopy is a procedure where the inside of the human body is examined using an instrument called an endoscope. An endoscope is a long, thin, flexible tube that has a light source and camera at one end. Images of the inside of the body are relayed to a television screen. Over 100 endoscopic procedures are performed annually at Turks and Caicos Islands

Turks and Caicos Sun 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 Publisher & Editor-in-Chief: Hayden Boyce (L-R): Senior Registered Nurses, Haydee Dayupay and Jenifer Masiclat with SGNA Trainer Certifications Hospital, which include Colonoscopy, maintaining the competencies for the Gastroscopy, Biopsy and Polypectomy.

Surgical Services team on an annual Endoscopic diagnostics and therapeutics basis. continue to expand as new technology Chief of Clinical Services, enable minimally invasive techniques Douglas Moore said: “The inclusion and endoscopic equipment to improve of international best practices in the clinical outcomes and also reduce risk. area of Infection Prevention is a key The organization’s commitment to keep principle in reprocessing surgical pace with these improvements provides endoscopy devices. Jenifer and Haydee the opportunity to offer a wider range have gained the knowledge and skills of endoscopic services. necessary to develop and implement

While the transmission a continuing education and quality of infectious organisms during assurance program for our facility as gastrointestinal endoscopy is trainers. These leadership qualities considered low, the prevention of demonstrate our true commitment infection through increased vigilance towards setting the bar higher for and continuous training is imperative. quality improvement at Turks and Therefore, TCI Hospital has sought to Caicos Islands Hospital.” ensure an astute investment in

PAYLESS WAREHOUSE LTD Position Name: Labourer (TWO) Duties & Responsibilities : •Meat Room Labourer have to weigh out meat for customers and may have to handle money for customers. The ability to add and subtract quickly is necessary.

•Have to speak directly to the customer. Good listening skills, speaking and communicating calmly, effectively and in a friendly manner, and patience are necessary.

•Often stand for long periods of time and are required to lift heavy objects.

•Might be asked to work nights, weekends and extended hours.

Having a flexible schedule is key.

•Help with the deliveries •Unloading Containers Salary is $ 8.00 per hour Position Name: Order Picker (ONE) Duties & Responsibilities: •To review sales order to pick up for delivery; •Maintains customer relationships by answering their questions; responding to special requests; describing product features.

Skills and Qualifications: •Product Knowledge, Quality Focus, Customer Focus, Organization, Client Relationships, Promotions, Reporting Skills, Attention to Detail, Job Knowledge At least 5 years of experience of experience in picking up orders Salary rate will commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Position Name: Inventory Supervisor (ONE) Duties & Responsibilities : •Monitor all cycle count programs and ensure consistency and

Graphic designer Information Technology and Production Manager: Kelano Howell Todeline Defralien Reporter

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.

accuracy in same and identify all operational problems in inventory.

•Maintain records of all variances according to establish procedures and ensure accuracy of all product transfers from one facility to other.

•Prepare and update all required paperwork for vendor products and ensure accuracy in all inventories and resolve any issues in same.

•Monitor all procurement requests of facilities and ensure accuracy in all inbound inventory and maintain records for same.

•Provide training to staff on all payroll processes and make adjustments if required.

•Administer all return shipments of customers in case of any shortages and damages and communicate same to manufacturer.

•Monitor work of all inventory control personnel and ensure achievement of all objectives and provide improvements to same if required.

•Determine and ensure optimal security of all materials and arrange for all shipments as per requirement.

•Monitor and ensure accuracy of all inventory transactions and maintain records of all stockroom locations.

•Train employees and staff in all inventory control processes according to manual and update processes if required.

•Manage all communication with inventory control manager and make recommendations to same if required.

•Monitor all inventory control processes and documents all procedures to maintain all equipment and tools.

•Manage all inventory transactions and provide required feedback to team as required.

Skills & Experience: •At least 6+ years of working experience in foodservice/wholesale and distribution industry.

•Must have minimum of Bachelor’s Degree in Business.

•Must have strong knowledge of working experience in QuickBooks Enterprise Solutions, AlloyERP, •Excellent communication skills and ability to interact and perform to the highest quality in a diverse environment.

•Compensation commensurate with experience & qualifications.

Applications along with CVs/Resume’ can be submitted via email to : hr@i-grocers.com Please place the desired position in the subject line.

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted Deadline for submission of applications is 17th February 2018

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 9

alexandra resort | beach house | blue haven resort

take an unplugged vacation. here’s how it looks at our resorts.

Keyboarding

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Twitter

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Morning Commute

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Board Meeting

Evening Commute

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turksandcaicoscollection.com

Alexandra Resort alexandraresort.com contact@alexandraresort.com +1.800.284.0699 +1.649.946.5807

Beach House Turks & Caicos beachhousetci.com contact@beachhousetci.com +1.855.946.5800 +1.649.946.5800

Blue Haven Resort bluehaventci.com contact@bluehaventci.com +1.855.832.7667 +1.649.946.9900

Page 10

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

LOCAL NEWS

Swim and Surf TCI Partners with Sailrock to Bring 3x Olympian to South Caicos

It wasn’t the typical Friday at Iris Stubbs Primary School as the students received a surprise visit from one of the Caribbean’s elite swimmers.

Shaune Fraser, who represented the Cayman Islands 3 times in the Summer Olympics, stopped by Iris Stubbs Primary to screen The Black Line, a documentary that he helped produce, and to also draw awareness to the local nonprofit Swim and Surf TCI, which along with the Ed Gartland Youth Centre, currently provides affordable swimming programs in Providenciales with goals of expanding throughout TCI.

Shaune Fraser, along with Swim and Surf TCI’s founding member, Graham Shaw, spoke with

the 5th & 6th grade students at Iris Stubbs about the challenges that Shaune faced while learning how to swim in the Cayman Islands without proper facilities, and screened the documentary.

The documentary features interviews with several elite swimmers from the Caribbean who share their experiences and the prejudices they faced as they were growing up in both the Caribbean and United States.

From the West African pearl divers of the 1700s, through the 1800s US Jim Crow era stratification of US swimming, to the indigenous athletic traditions of Caribbean swimmers, The Black Line explores and undoes the incorrect stereotypes facing swimmers of color.

Kischo Trading Leeward Highway Providenciales ➢ SEEKING TO FILL THE POSITION OF DELIVERY/TRUCK DRIVE. •Hourly rate $9 •6 days per week •skilled drivers hose able to lift heavy merchandise.

Contact: 331-0221 This position is currently not held by anyone. ➢ SEEKING TO FILL THE POSITION OF A INVENTORY MANAGER. •Hourly rate $11 •6 days per week •Compile and main records of type, quantity, and value of material, sale, equipment, merchandise and supplies stocked in establishment for multiple locations.

Contact: 331-0221 This position is currently not held by anyone ➢SEEKING TO FILL THE POSITION OF STORE MANAGER. •Hourly rate $12 • 6 days per week •10 years experience in this field •Able to work on multicultural environment.

Contact: 331-0221 This position is currently not held by anyone

The Black Line provides an in-depth look at how Jim Crow era laws in the United States created a generational divide that resulted in older generations passing down an unjust fear to their children as a result of their own inability to swim.

The film examines how these challenges, along with the cultural barriers established during the Jim Crow era have been passed down from generation to generation, and confronts false stereotypes head-on with facts and testimonials from some of the Caribbean’s elite swimmers.

The Black Line explores the false narratives and socioeconomic challenges that have resulted in fewer Black children learning how to swim, and examines the harsh reality that drowning deaths are 3x more likely

amongst Black children than Whites.

Shaune and Graham hope that the film will dismantle the stereotypes prevalent amongst the Black community and encourage more parents to enroll their children in swimming programs.

The 3x Olympian, National Record Holder, National Champion, Pan Am Champion, CARIFTA Champion, and 2x NCAA D1 Champion hopes that his visits to Iris Stubbs and other schools throughout TCI will encourage more students to participate in swimming programs.

The trip to South Caicos was made possible by Sailrock Resort which proudly sponsors Swim and Surf TCI and supports the South Caicos community through various endeavors.

ASSISTANT MANAGER

TCI Paint & Supply Ltd is seeking suitably qualified candidates for the above position. Duties include but are not limited to assisting with sales; dealing with customers and preparing orders as well as receiving and off loading inventory from containers; responding to customer complaints and comments; creating and fostering new relationships with new and perspective clients; general supervision of employees. Successful applicant must be punctual and willing to complete all tasks at hand with a positive and respectful attitude.

Starting Salary $1,800.00 to $2,100.00 per month based on experience and qualifications Kindly forward resumes and qualification to the below address copy to the Turks and Caicos Islands Labour Department and Immigration Board: Employment Department TCI Paint Supply Ltd Leeward Highway Tel: 649-339-6275 Fax 649-941-4777 Email: brenton@tcipaintsupply.com

AUTOMOTIVE PAINT TECHNICIAN TCI Paint & Supply Ltd is seeking suitably qualified candidates for the above position. Duties include but are not limited to mixing all paint, maintaining accurate database for mixed paints and current OEM paint mixing schemes, maintaining up to date database of all standard domestic and international vehicles, care and cleaning of all computer equipment, parts etc. Applicant must have at least 15 years experience with automotive paint mixing.

Starting Salary $1,550.00 to $1,850.00 per month based on experience and qualifications Kindly forward resumes and qualification to the below address copy to the Turks and Caicos Islands Labour Department and Immigration Board: Employment Department TCI Paint Supply Ltd Leeward Highway Tel: 649-339-6275 Fax 649-941-4777 Email: brenton@tcipaintsupply.com

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 11

“My birthstone”

“Capture every moment”

“I love dancing”

“For my best friends”

YOUR S TORY IS ONE- O F-A - K IND

The Regent Village Grace Bay Road www.jais.tc info@jais.tc Snake Chain Bracelet System (U.S. Pat. No. 7,007,507) • © 2018 Pandora Jewelry, LLC • All rights reserved

Page 12

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

LOCAL NEWS

Fishing Tournament fees reminder The Department of Environment and Coastal Resources would like to advise all fishing enthusiasts and the general public that the Fisheries Regulations state that: 1.No person shall organise or host a sports fishing event or tournament, Without having prior written approval by the Minister.

2.All persons who wish to participate in any sports fishing event or tournament must obtain the correct licences for themselves and their vessels.

The following licence fees apply:

Tournament Fishing Vessel Licence Per tournament .......................................................

250.00 (Per Vessel) Tournament Fishing Licence Per tournament .......................................................

1,000.00 (Per Event)

Any person who uses, charters, hires out or otherwise makes available for reward any vessel

for use by persons fishing for sport, or the master of any such vessel shall, without the required licenses commit an offence and be liable upon summary conviction to a fine of $50,000 or to a term of imprisonment of twelve months or to both the aforementioned fine and imprisonment.

The DECR would like to encourage all persons desiring to host or participate in any sports fishing event or tournament to email enquiries to environment@gov.tc, call 338-4164 or visit one of our offices in Grand Turk, Providenciales or South Caicos for more information.

Marron Sturrup and Jermaine Lowe appointed as new Planning Development Control Officers

As a part of efforts to bolster staff in the Planning Department, the Office of the Deputy Governor is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Marron Sturrup and Jermaine Lowe as Development Control Officers in the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Planning, Planning Department.

Both gentlemen hold an Associate Degree in Building and Design Technology from the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College and Mr. Sturrup also holds a certificate in Electrical/Electronic Engineering and Office Management from the same institution.

Both Mr. Sturrup and Lowe commented that they were pleased to be joining the Planning Department where they could put the knowledge recently gained through the Community College to work and looked forward to being a part of the work of the department.

Deputy Governor Anya Williams commented that she was pleased to welcome both persons to the civil service and wished them much success in their new demanding roles as the Planning Department seeks to enhance its enforcement and other programs across the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Mr. Marron Sturrup and Jermaine Lowe

WATERLOO HOTEL MANAGEMENT LTD

Alexandra Resort, Blue Haven Resort & Marina and the Beach House

We are seeking to employ, suitably qualified and experienced hospitality professionals in the positions listed below. Our ideal candidates should have an outstanding command of the English language, written and oral, strong communication and excellent customer service skills with an all-inclusive background.

SECURITY OFFICER Reporting to the Director of Security, responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following: Position Description

mFINISHING CARPENTER Reporting to the Chief Engineer, responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following: Responsibilities: •To perform layout fabrication, repair of equipment and structures using wood, glass, plastic, sheet metal and lead.

•General rough inside and outside carpentry work.

•Performs carpentry on new construction jobs.

•Must be able to manually lift 50lbs. on an intermittent basis.

Heavier loads will be handled using other methods •Provides general maintenance, which includes but is not limited to minor electrical, plumbing, mechanical repairs, appliance repair, drywall, painting •And any other duties as may be assigned by the Chief Engineer

Security Officer is responsible for: insuring a safe environment for all guests and associates; patrolling; documenting; reporting; and following-up on safety and security hazards or infractions. This individual may also be required to carry out more general guest service tasks, such as delivering items to guest rooms. A Security Officer must demonstrate the ability to remain calm in emergencies, Requirements: and balance excellent guest and associate relations skills with • At least 4 or 5 years experience with at least 3 or more those safety and security. The successful applicant must be available to years in a four star resort property work multi shifts, holidays, weekends and overnight.

• Three or more years experience in a resort or condominium environment Job Requirements • High school diploma • Completion Certificate of a recognized apprentice program ➢ Guest Oriented with previous resort/hotel experience is a • Equivalent combination of education, training and MUST experience in carpentry trade. ➢ Must have working knowledge of all procedures and processes in Loss Prevention Salary range for this position will commensurate with the ➢ Must be computer literate with excellent communication, qualifications and experience of the successful applicant. written and oral skills ➢ CPR and First Aid Certification Preferred ➢ A valid TCI driver’s license Interested persons may contact our HR department Salary range for this position will commensurate with the qualifications and experience of the successful applicant.

Mon. – Fri. from 9am-3pm via telephone number 946-8054 or you may submit your resume with qualifications and experience to:hr@wihl.com Closing date ---- February 24th , 2018

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 13

LOCAL NEWS

Christopher Parnell’s sister pleads to police to re-open her brother’s case

By Todeline Defralien Eldest sister of Christopher Parnell, a young man who was found hanging from a tall tree in the Oseta Jolly Primary School yard on Sunday morning June 7th 2009 is pleading to Police to re-open her brother’s case.

St. Catherine-born Christopher ‘Antonio’ Parnell, who celebrated his 24th birthday on June 6th, was discovered dangling by his neck early morning on June 7th by the school’s caretaker who raised an alarm.

As the news spread throughout the Blue Hills area, scores of curious onlookers came on scene to get a glimpse of the gruesome sight.

The dead man’s sister Celia Parnell told The SUN that she pleads to the Police Department to give her an update as to what is taking place in the investigation of her brother’s case because he did not commit suicide.

In an interview with The SUN, Celia Parnell described her brother as a loving person who had a bright personality that would keep you smiling all day even if you were having a bad day.

She said, “My brother use to attend the Clement Howell High School, the 6th of June was his birthday. He went to the barbershop to cut his hair.

He came by my mom because I was at the house that afternoon. When he came he had a Guinness in his hand and he said to me, ‘Sis man let’s go out and have some fun tonight because tonight is my birthday and the two of us can have some fun’ because we normally celebrate our birthday together. His birthday is the 6th of June and my birthday is the 17th

of June. I said to Chris that I cannot, because I have to go to work in the morning very early and if I go out I won’t be able to go to bed and sleep to wake up early. He said to me ‘You think I don’t have money? I have money in my wallet’ and he took out $400.00 bills and there were no change and he flashed it in my face.”

She added: “The morning before day my mom called me and she said to me Cel…before she could even say Celia, I said Christopher. Instead of me going in front of the school I ran to the side and I went to the back of the school. I saw my brother hanging from the tree. Chris (Christopher) didn’t have on any clothes, only thing Chris had on was his boxers.

The position of my brother body was facing the wall of the school in the back.

Chris had a smile on his face. On the tree there was a boat anchor at the bottom of the tree and a boat rope. My brother was 250 pounds at that time. For him to climb that to hang himself the tree would have snapped. There was no snapping of the tree. When they took my brother down, they allowed us to go in me, my mom and my sister came and when my mom looked at Christopher his stomach was flat, Chris had a smile on his face, there was no bleeding of the ears, there was just one mark print on his neck. It doesn’t show that there was a struggle or anything of assault.”

Parnell said that coming from Jamaica as a child who sees things happen, she knows the difference when someone hang themselves from when they didn’t hang themselves.

“They found my brother on the 7th of June. They had my brother’s body

at the morgue from June until around October before we actually got the body, and it was a very long time before we got the body to bury Christopher. We decided that we were going to bury my brother here in the Turks and Caicos Islands instead of taking him back home because that was going to cost us too much money.

We had asked for the autopsy report and we were refused the autopsy report on more than one occasion. When I and my mom went to the Police station the Police officer looked at my mom and told her ‘we are not sure at to what mindset your son was in when he commit suicide.

I say to the Officer that my brother did not commit suicide. Why would he go to the length of going to the barbershop cutting his hair, asking me to go out with him that night to celebrate his birthday?.

He was dressed down to the tee. He had his chain, a watch, his cell phone, his wallet with $400.00 and his bank card was never found, his NIB and NIHP card was never found, the money was never found and his cloths was never found,” she explained.

Tearful Parnell stressed that she needs her brother case to re-open and she has been waiting patiently from 2009.

“I was able to get a glimpse of the autopsy report even though I was unable to get a copy and based on what the autopsy wrote they cannot rule it as suicide or a homicide. No one is going to go to the Police and mention nothing to the Police because each time you go to the Police Department and say something, because there are so many family members who work in the Police Department they tend to cover up what really happened and not doing their job.”

Christopher Parnell.

Parnell noted that she wrote letters to the previous Governor asking him to have the Police Department open up her brothers case and she has also wrote to the Commissioner of Police Mr. Farquhar and other Commissioners who came to this country but until this day nothing is being done.

Meantime she added: “This country is too small for so many unsolved murders that go on and nobody knows what’s going on, nobody can tell who is doing these things. I have no faith in the Police Department, 95% of the Police Department is corrupt and the 5% who is trying to do their job they get a very hard time doing their job, sometimes get suspended or get fired because they are seeing things and they are saying no.”

Parnell pleads to the community if anyone knows or saw anything that happened that night when her brother was killed to please come forward.

The SUN also contacted the Police Department to get an officials update on the Christopher Parnell’s case and was notified by the Deputy Commissioner of Police Trevor Botting that he would respond to the questions but up to the time of this report, none was available.

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION Regulating with Honesty, Integrity and Transparency The Financial Services Commission, the regulator of financial services business in the Turks and Caicos Islands, is seeking suitably qualified applicants.

Job Title: Office Manager Location: Providenciales Salary: Grade 7 JOB SUMMARY The holder of this office will support the Director of Human Resources and Administration, and serve as Assistant to the Managing Director.

The Office Manager is responsible for planning, supervising and coordinating office administration, events planning and management, human resources administration, and dealing with vendors providing service to the Commission.

SPECIFIC KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED The successful applicant should possess sound knowledge of office procedures; good human resource administration skills, including knowledge of applicable legislation; working knowledge of health standards and work place safety and security; knowledge of facilities management; and awareness of disaster preparedness and emergency management. The office holders should possess strong communication skills, written and oral, and be proficient with office computing programs.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE The successful applicant should have a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration/ Public Administration/ Human Resource Management or equivalent qualifications. The applicant must also have at least three years’ experience in the Office/ project management field or working in an HR environment or related discipline.

OTHER APPLICABLE INFORMATION Salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications, and will be based on the Commission’s salary scale.

The duties for the post will be carried out in primarily in Providenciales.

Applications should be emailed to administration@tcifsc.tc no later than 28 February, 2018. The response must state clearly “Application for Office Manager”. A copy can be sent to the Employment Services Department.

Page 14

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

LOCAL NEWS

Radio Remote Rocks Beaches Turks & Caicos

Brand Turks and Caicos was remote initiative and we’ve been Race Taylor of 99.5 PLG who the hot-button topic to millions of very lucky to secure top-rated radio broadcasted for two days on property listeners across the United States as stations as well as DJ’s from top said; ‘We are here because it was a Beaches Turks and Caicos hosted a markets to come and experience the monumental occasion for my wife promotional radio remote on property destination for themselves while and and I almost 25 years to the date of from February 5-February 9, 2018. encourage their listeners to come and our first date. We are here for a huge

The ‘luxury included’ resort vacation here.” celebration and if you’re looking to do and Turks & Caicos Islands sizzled Ramon Andrews, Director something for your family or maybe across airwaves as DJs from 20 radio of Tourism for the Turks and Caicos somewhere to take the kids, get away stations indulged listeners while Tourist Board was also interviewed from it all and unwind, this (Beaches) promoting the island as the premier on the broadcast - Andrews said; is the spot.” vacation destination.

“It’s always a pleasure to work with Krzanowski also stated, “I

The resort targeted top- the Beaches and Sandals Group; believe this is a very effective ranked, mainstream stations in some they’re not only what we consider to promotional strategy for the Turks high-interest markets such as Los be, the Flag Ship Resort of the Turks and Caicos islands as the radio Angeles, Miami, and Philadelphia and Caicos Islands, but their also personalities have a niche market and and also new markets that may have excellent corporate citizens within a strong fan base, we look forward to never heard of this Turks & Caicos. our community. And, the Live Radio hosting another radio remote in the They also hit almost every format Remote Promotion covering more near future.” from Adult Contemporary and Sports than 10 US States promoting, not The 2018 radio remote included, to Classic Rock, Classic Hits, Oldies, just Beaches, but also the Turks WWSW-FM 94.5 3 Pittsburgh, Jazz and Easy Listening. and Caicos Islands and its offerings - WHUD-FM 100.7 FM Hudson

“This is great post-hurricane speaks to their genuine commitment Valley, WOLL-FM Kool 105.5 West marketing initiative for the Turks to our country and its brand. This Palm Beach, WSNV-FM Sunny and Caicos, I’m glad we were able to winning formula will continue to 93.5 Roanoke, WURV-FM 103.7 partner with so many different radio create success on both sides.”

Richmond, WGNA-FM 107.7 Albany, stations across the United States to let Radio personalities WMIA-FM My 93.9 Miami, KMGLthe world know that Beaches Resort interviewed Beaches managers about FM 104.1 Oklahoma City, KQCHand Turks and Caicos is here and we’re the restoration of the resort post- FM Channel 94.1 Omaha, KSNE-FM better than ever.” Said Elanor Finfin hurricane Irma, the offerings of the Sunny 106.5 Las Vegas, WCBS-FM Krzanowski, PR Manager for Beaches luxury included resort and a highlight 101.1 FM New York, WRBQ-FM Resort and also lead organizer of the on the newest additions to Beaches Q105 Tampa, WNOW-FM Radio promotion, “This is our sixth radio since opening.

Now 100.9 Indianapolis, KOST-FM

Radio Remote- Jamie McAnally

Great House Management Company Limited [Sailrock Resort] is seeking a qualified candidate for the position below: Assistant Chief Engineer •is the person who is the subordinate of the chiefengineer. In his absence, the whole responsibility is taken by the assistantchiefengineer. He assigns the task to the employees who are best suited for that job.

Responsibilities •Possess the ability to make independent decisions when the circumstances warrant such action.

•Knowledge of Laundry Equipment and operations •Excellent Customer Skills.

•Monitor Utility Costs for the property •Knowledge and Maintenance of all major electrical and mechanical equipment •Knowledge of Refrigeration, A/C •Maintain the files & Logs kept in Engineering department •Assign work orders by priority, delegate duties and supervise work •Conduct periodic retraining with employees for learning of proper procedures •Must consistently display and model Sailrock Resort hospitality and behavior models.

•Develop and assist in the delivery of a Preventative Maintenance Program •Responsible for stock and requisition of necessary items of departmental efficiency Qualified Candidates will have/be: •Must be able to speak, read, write and understand English.

•Ability to be on time and present for all scheduled shifts including weekends and holidays •Musts be able to use commercial cleaning chemicals •Provide a High School Diploma •Provide an Electrical Certificate/Degree •Able to relocate to South Caicos Island Please submit applications to the Human Resources Department: o Drop off: W104 Venture House, Grace Bay, Providenciales o Email: HumanResources@Sailrockresort.com Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders must also submit copies of their application to the TCI Labour Board.

Radio Remote- Elanor

KOST 103.5 Los Angeles, WKSL-FM 97.9 Jacksonville, WNVZ-FM Z104 Norfolk, WNCB-FM B939 Raleigh, WWWQ-FM Q100 Atlanta, WVMXFM Mix 107.9 Columbus, WSSR-FM Star 96.7 Chicago

The live broadcasts also included three vacation giveaways per station during and after the live broadcast. Turks & Caicos was also featured on each radio station’s Web site, via dedicated promotional spots on-air, live on-property interviews with the Beaches staff, as well as live and pre-recorded on-air mentions. The promotions helped to bring awareness of the resort as well as the destination.

In addition to the exciting interactive itinerary at the resort, participants experienced Sandals Resorts’ Luxury Included® vacation, enjoying superior accommodations, unlimited gourmet specialty dining; unlimited premiumbrand beverages, including house wines from Robert Mondavi Winery and award-winning El Dorado Rum; a wide array of unlimited land and water sports, including snorkeling and SCUBA for certified divers, daily and nightly entertainment, and the inclusion of their airport transfers and all taxes, fees, and gratuities.

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 15

LOCAL NEWS

8th Annual Chocolate Lovers Showcase raised $52, 000 for the Salvation Army

By Todeline Defralien The Chocolate Lovers Showcase benefiting the Salvation Army returned for its eight year and received tremendous support from the community and even raised $52, 000 this year for the Salvation Army.

The Showcase is one of the island’s most beloved not mention creative single-day culinary events, exploring both the savory and sweet expressions of everyone’s favorite indulgence.

The event was held at the Palms Resort on Saturday February 3rd, 2018, where nine (9) different restaurants competed head to head to create very unique savory and sweet chocolate samplers for guests to enjoy.

The yearly event held the first Saturday of February raises money for the Salvation Army’s Hot Lunch Program, which offers over 100 students per day in three government schools a hot meal.

This successful initiative began eight years ago to offer students at-risk the opportunity to focus on their studies with nutrition in their systems, and not worry about when their next meal might come.

Since the inception of the first Chocolate Lovers Showcase, the event has raised over a quarter of a million dollars and will have provided over 60,000 hot lunches to hundreds of students.

Advisory Board Chairman for the TCI Salvation Army Todd Foss said, “Some of the best chefs on the island are competing against each other in a friendly competition, not only to raise money for our lunch program which it is really about but also to determine who has the best sweet and the best savory desert and their only rule are is that it

All of the participating Chefs pictured with Captain Abena Miller have to include chocolate as an ingredient.

I’ve seen everything from lamb lollipops and in the past one of the winners was a conch chocolate wonton and it’s amazing what they can come up with.”

“People say that this is one of their favorite nights of the year, it’s a beautiful setting and you have a really nice mix of local people, tourists and expats and we’ve had really good feedback throughout the years. The chefs are amazing and they go beyond what you would expect and people are wowed by that and I think that we get the same people coming back year after year because it’s such a wonderful night,” he added.

Foss stated that if this event didn’t happen there would be hundreds of kids in Providenciales that would not get a hot lunch. He also confirmed that it will cost close to $40,000 to feed the number of students that they want to feed in their expanding program to three schools and that was their goal for the evening.

“The longer I am involved with the Salvation Army, the more I realise the breadth of what they do around the world and here in Turks and Caicos and that was brought to attention during and after hurricanes Irma and Maria. Besides our normal programs, like our senior’s transportation program in Middle Caicos, we provide senior’s transportation to things that they would not otherwise get to go to for example, the doctor, the bank, the beach once a month for fellowship and they get to see their friends and even to sad things like funerals those are important to the elderly and they want to say goodbye to their friends. The hot lunch program with the hurricanes we’ve gone into helping to rebuild school classrooms, helping people who are struggling to just rebuild their lives and homes. We can tell that luckily Tourism is alive and well and the hotels were able to rebuild quickly and get the economy moving again but in Grand Turk, in South Caicos and in Salt Cay and many

other areas in Providenciales we can’t forget that there is still a lot of work to do and there’s still a lot of people in need,” Foss explained.

Foss expressed that there is great need to help the different islands in TCI. He stated that the relief effort is over but the recovery period is still going on.

“There was great need and it took a while for us to assess other islands like Grand Turk because there was no communication. The Salvation Army was able to gather from its International sources over $200,000 worth of aid in which we distributed to all the islands.

There is still people in those other sister islands that need our help and the Salvation Army continues to do food distributions, send supplies to the other islands. We specially take a lot of the stuffs to our elderly customers in Middle and North Caicos, it’s a continuing effort the relief effort is over but the recovery period is still going on.”

At the end of the evening, once all of the votes had been counted, it was the Pavilion at the Somerset claiming the gold medal in the savory category.

Their championship entry was a lobster stuffed agnolotti in a champagne white chocolate cream sauce. In the same category, Stelle at Gansevoort won the silver medal and Parallel 23 of the Palms the bronze. The sweet gold medal winner for 2018 was Team Amanyara with their white chocolate Thai curry praline with coconut, kaffir lime and lemongrass ganache and toasted coconut. Infiniti at Grace Bay Club won the silver medal in the sweet category and Stelle, a double winner during the evening, the bronze.

maintenance activities and increase overall plant efficiency.  Be available to respond to emergencies at all times outside of regular working hours, as may be required by plant contingency.

SENIOR ELECTRICAL TECHNICIAN  Responsible for carrying out effective preventive and corrective repairs to plant control and electrical equipment and other company assets in a manner consistent with equipment manufacturer’s specification and standard electrical practices and as directed by the Plant Production Manager or his designate.

Main Duties  Conduct competent and effective preventative and corrective electrical maintenance on all rotating and stationary electrical equipment owned and operated by Fortis TCI in a cost effective manner consistent with manufacturer’s operating and maintenance guidelines in a manner that ensures the highest reliability and efficiency from these units.  Responsible for performing all levels of electrical preventative maintenance without supervision on all generating units and plant auxiliary equipment in a manner consistent with equipment manufacturer’s guidelines.  To be highly knowledgeable of and competent in the electrical spares parts required by the generation units and supporting electrical systems at the power plants owned and operated by Fortis TCI and to identify and recommend to the management staff of the Division the spares parts that are needed for maintenance.  Display a profound knowledge of underlying theoretical and operating principles of all electrical equipment used in diesel fired operation and to utilize this knowledge in developing the Technical competence and capacity of assigned junior maintenance personnel.  Prepare comprehensive job reports and failure analysis report.  Competently use proper tooling during equipment repair and safeguard and maintain tools and other electrical repair equipment.  Operate shop tools as needed to fabricate, repair, weld, solder, cut, drill, etc.  Maintain records and reports as required (including inventory of necessary parts).  Demonstrate leadership and commitment in ensuring that maintenance activities are performed by self and team members in full compliance with the company’s Environmental, Health and Safety policies and procedures when on the plant site and during the execution of work duties.  Make recommendations (supported by data) to management staff in the Division of new techniques, tooling and processes to improve

Minimum Requirements:  Successfully complete all the units of module in NCCER Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 and Level 4 (or equivalent) and have at least 10 years industrial experience in the operations, maintenance and repair of diesel generating stations. An Associate’s degree (or equivalent) in the electrical engineering trades will be an accepted equivalent academic qualification.  Successfully complete NCCER Crew Leadership Program (or equivalent supervisory/leadership training).  Significant experience in failure diagnostics, trouble shooting and carrying out all levels of preventative and corrective electrical maintenance/repair of large generation units and in particular Wärtsilä 20V32 generating units and Caterpillar 3600 Series units is required.  Significant experience with and competency in the use of computers, PLCs and standard computing software programs.  Significant experience in high voltage installation, maintenance, and repairs.  Above average analytical skills in math and principles of diesel engine machines  Excellence in interpretation of engineering drawings and manuals.  Professional competency in written and oral communication skills in English.  Must display a high competency in the use of computers and standard engineering and office computing software programs utilized in maintenance activities, reporting and record keeping.

Abilities; Skills; Experience  Excellent team player and team building skills  Excellent written and oral communication skills  Ability to deliver to strict deadlines and to work under pressure  Goal-oriented  Self- motivated Compensation is commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Deadline for submission of applications (inclusive of a cover letter, resume and a FortisTCI application form) is Monday February 19th, 2018 to: Mr. Avi Adams Manager, Human Resources FortisTCI Limited P. O. Box 132, Providenciales

Email address: hrapplications@fortistci.com AND aadams@fortistci.com

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

LOCAL NEWS

Protecting Your Heart

By Dr. Marsha Barnett

Heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide but is the no 1 cause of death in women! This is particularly unfortunate as many cases of heart disease and associated deaths can be avoided with simple tweaks in our lifestyles and approach to our health.

Here are a few pointers that will help reduce your risk of developing heart disease and even halt or reverse your heart disease.

HEED THE WARNINGS

Not smoking is perhaps the no 1 thing you can do for your health in general and your heart health in particular. Smoking is thought to be the most important controllable risk factor for heart disease, as you are 2 – 4 times more likely to have heart disease if you smoke compared to those who do not. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about quitting the habit and if you don’t smoke, don’t start.

Seeing your doctor at intervals and knowing and controlling your numbers – blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar is also key in maintaining good heart health. High cholesterol, diabetes and hypertension all increase your risk of developing heart disease and having more than one of these illnesses together further compounds the issue. Partner with your physician to manage these conditions with medications and lifestyle.

Another doctor that may help keep your heart healthy is actually your dentist!

Good oral hygiene does more than keep your teeth white and your breath fresh.

Research done at the Cleveland Clinic suggests that the bacteria that cause gum disease can also raise your risk of heart disease. Clean after each meal, floss daily and visit your dentist for routine cleanings twice a year.

EAT WELL

Having a diet high in fiber and low in fat and salt is essential for heart health. High intake of fiber has been linked to an increase in good cholesterol so bulk up on your oatmeal, vegetables, beans and whole grains. Fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and sardines are high in omega 3 fats which have been linked to good heart health so have these 2 to 3 times a week. Also, almonds, walnuts and pecans deliver a powerful punch of heart-healthy fats, protein, and fiber.

But keep the serving size small as they are also high in calories.

ACTIVATE YOUR EXERCISE PLAN

Though many women don’t like to lift weights, regular strength training is important as it allows you to build muscle which increases your metabolism rate. This will make it easier to maintain a heart healthy weight as you will burn more calories throughout the day.

Additionally, once done with the correct form, many of the weight training exercises target the abdominal muscles, making a strong and lean core more attainable. This is important as research in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology has linked excess belly fat to higher blood pressure and unhealthy blood fats.

Whilst most of us would agree that aerobic fitness is key to keeping your heart healthy, going to the gym or running 5k races isn’t the only way to keep your activity levels up. Take every opportunity throughout the day to get moving and condition your heart, lungs and muscles.

Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park on the far side of the parking lot when going shopping or running errands. Play with your dog or kids outside instead of playing video games or watching television. It all adds up!

REST & RELAXATION

Dr. Marsha Barnett for your heart, as well as your mood.

TREAT YOURSELF Dark chocolate not only tastes good but it also contains heart-healthy flavonoids. These compounds help reduce inflammation and lower your risk of heart disease. Additionally, moderate consumption of alcohol can help raise your good cholesterol. Red wine in particular may offer benefits for your heart. So, this Valentine’s day you can raise that glass of wine and have that guilt free piece of dark chocolate.

High levels of stress affect the body in a myriad of negative ways. According to the American Heart Association chronic stress, anxiety, and anger can Here’s to your heart. raise your risk of heart disease and stroke. So, find ways to relax and take *Dr. Marsha Barnett is a general the edge off. Yoga and meditation are practitioner who also specializes proven to relax the mind and body and in dermatology.

For questions even a five-minute walk can help clear or comments, please contact at your head and lower your stress levels. drmarshabarnett@gmail.com or at Laughing can lower stress hormones Associated Medical Practices - 946and a positive disposition may be good 4242.

COLOMBIAN EMERALDS INTENATIONAL Colombian Emeralds International “the worlds foremost Emerald dealer” with over 50 stores world wide has exciting career opportunity as a RETAIL ATTENDANT in fine art of Jewelry selling.

JOB DISCRIPTION: .Responsible for sales, cashiering (including making correct change, perform accurate conversion of foreign exchange) .Conduct credit card transactions .Input of customer information in point of sale terminals .Reconciling cash at the end of the day .Participating in the setting up of store each morning and securing all merchandise in store safe at close of day .Cleanliness of showcases ,daily displays along with general care of merchandise and store .Participate in daily marketing activities to drive sales across hotel property

QUALIFICATIONS: .Minimum 2 year customer service experience selling Jewelry and or Luxury Merchandise-Salary commensurate with experience .Possess a clean police record .Basic computer knowledge .Must be able to work on own initiative .Works well in a team setting in order to meet company objectives .Likes to interact with people, strong verbal command .Must be trustworthy, polite, punctual with a jovial personality .Able to work weekends/public holidays and at a moments notice

BUILDING MATERIALS & CONSTRUCTION COORDINATOR Provide customer liaison, purchasing support, order tracking and general duties for busy window and door company in our Caribbean office in the Turks & Caicos Islands.

Qualifications: Seeking an individual with Turks & Caicos legal work status.

Self reliant motivated business minded person with positive attitude and good people skills.

Must be well organized and be detail oriented and possess ability to multi task .

Minimum of 5 years experience in building materials and/or building and construction related field.

Some knowledge of purchasing, procurement , shipping, logistics an asset.

Computer literate including Microsoft Excel / Outlook.

Fluent in spoken and written English.

Impeccable Police Record as well as Job References are required.

FORWARD ALL CV AND COVER LETTERS BY EMAIL : ATTN: NORDICA DELL

Salary based on qualifications.

Nordica.dell@dfch.com/ 44302@dfch.com

Please contact: darlene@caribbeanwindows.com

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 17

LOCAL NEWS

TCI Community College lecturers made a run for it at Move-A-Thon

Providenciales, Turks & Community College seeks to teach healthy living is a great thing.”

Caicos Islands: Lecturers from the students some life lessons that extend Mr. Estephane, Mr. Bennett TCI Community College demonstrated beyond the classroom and this is a and Ms. Jackson all echoed similar comments about the race. their support in community efforts great example of this.

Mr. Bennett commented: “The with their participation in the 2018 Mrs. Candice Malcolm, Head edition of “Move-A-thon” hosted by of the Faculty of Education and tests that were done also enhanced the Nutrition in Demand.

Assistant to the Vice President said, overall experience at Move-A-Thon.”

In today’s world, a healthy “It was invigorating to be out with He went on to say, “It gave each person life style is promoted everywhere colleagues and to be a part of this an idea of their numbers at that point.” and it was a positive thing to see our event.” She continued: “This is for a Mr. Estephane spoke about the route, Lecturers stepping up and doing their worthy cause and every little bit that “It was a good distance to run and it part to encourage others. The TCI we can help to bring awareness to was completed with ease. I was happy

TCICC Lecturers

Mr. Estephane gets his blood pressure checked

to be a part of the event.”

Ms. Jackson said, “Being new to the country, the Move-A-Thon gave a chance for me to see a little bit more of the island while getting in some exercise.”

The TCI Community College was proud to be a part of this initiative

by Nutrition in Demand and the College looks forward to the next one.

Being healthy is the key! It starts with me!

Mr. Bennett - Nerve system testing

The ideal candidate will be professional in attitude and demeanor and must read and speak English fluently. Position requires a flexible schedule which includes holidays and weekends and.Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Must be physically fit. Outgoing, positive personality is a necessary job component. High ethical standards a must.

The Somerset Resort Management Ltd. is seeking Labour Clearance for the position listed below. Suitably qualified Belongers who possess the requirements listed are encouraged to apply.

EXECUTIVE HOUSEKEEPER

Job Summary: Manages housekeeping, public areas and laundry functions and staff on a daily basis to ensure property guest rooms, public space and employee areas are clean and well maintained. Strives to continually improve guest and employee satisfaction and maximize the financial performance of the department.

Responsible for inspecting Guest Rooms and Public Areas providing follow-up for improving results.

Requirements: • At least 5 years practical experience in similar position for a luxury 5 star boutique Resort • Adheres to, supports and carries out the strategic Company’s Vision and values • Superior Employee Relations Skills • Displays high commitment to improving customer services • Committed to developing colleagues • Ability to motivate team and build morale • Ability to anticipate and assess issues, risks and opportunities and develop new approaches • Accepts responsibility and accountability • Excellent communication skills in all aspects: verbal, written and nonverbal.

• Professional and appropriate business appearance and presentation.

• Must possess excellent organizational and administrative skills, interpersonal skills and leadership skills.

• Approachable, open-minded and fair.

• Flexible work hours to meet the demands of a 24 hour operation.

• High energy.

RESERVATION AGENT Job Summary: Working under limited supervision, manages customer satisfaction ensuring all incoming room reservations and cancellations are handled efficiently while maintaining an accurate reservation status to preclude an over or under booking situation. Handles the opening and closing extranet sites.

Requirements: •Must have working experience in a luxury five-star resorts.

•High school diploma or equivalent vocational training.

•Minimum of two years customer service experience preferred.

•Computer literacy in: •Microsoft Word •Microsoft Excel •Microsoft Outlook •Visual One is a plus •Excellent command of the English Language and second language preferred but not essential •Temporary Position (6-8 months) •Must speak, read, write and understand the primary language (English) used in the workplace.

•Must be able to work weekends and holidays.

•Must have reliable transportation to get to and from work.

Base salary range: $8.00 - $9.00 / hour to commensurate with qualification & experience. Benefits: Service gratuity, vacation & employee meals.

The ideal candidate will be professional in attitude and demeanor and must read and speak English fluently. Position requires a flexible schedule which includes holidays and weekends and.Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Must be physically fit. Outgoing, positive personality is a necessary job component. High ethical standards a must.

Qualified Belonger candidates can complete an application form in person at The Somerset on Grace Bay or submit a resume by e-mail at somerset@ thesomerset.com. Tel: 649-339-5900. Fax: 649-946-5839. The closing date for applications is February 28th, 2018.

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

IMMEDIATE OPENING CORPORATE OPERATIONS FACILITATOR* Primary Responsibilities/Requirements: •Minimum of 15 years’ operational management experience in luxury resort setting.

•Must have previous managerial experience directly in hotel pre-openings and a strong understanding of overall hotel business.

•Must have a history of delivering high end projects such as 5 Star Hotels/ Resorts and Residential/ Commercial developments.

•Must have previous experience working with leading developers, paying exceptional attention to detail.

•Ensures that all works are completed, in timely manner, to the highest level and all arising discrepancies are efficiently resolved.

•Must have leadership qualities to ensure the job is completed to the client’s high standards.

•Must have previous work experience in managing upholstery workshops and have good knowledge of wood finishes.

•Assists in the selection and purchasing of supplies and FF&E. Works closely with designers and cabinet makers.

•Coordinates and follows up on all the orders assigned and ensures timely and correct installation.

•Keeps documentation on all vendors and supplies, fabrics, paint colors, equipment, furniture, etc.

•Keeps inventories m and maintains item codes in inventory and maintenance software.

•Organizes and sets up back of the house spaces in regards to the departmental needs.

•Sets up Standard Operational Procedures for various departments.

•Conducts Room Punch inspections to ensure that all the finishes are flawless and to the highest standards; communicates deficiencies to Construction Supervisor and orders replacements.

•Designs and executes decorations for variety of hotel functions and events.

•Assists in styling various venues for photoshoot sessions.

•Performs any other tasks that may be assigned, associated with the preopening and running of the resort.

Salary for this position is $75,000.00 and is based on previous experience and qualifications.

ASSISTANT RESTAURANT MANAGER* Responsible for ensuring successful operation of the outlet(s) and functions assigned, ensuring memorable, luxury dining experiences for all guests and maximization of revenue and profitability.

Areas of Responsibility: •Manage assigned outlet or function during shift to ensure operation is in accordance with standards, ensuring all employee performance meets standard with all duties completed properly and on timely basis.

•Ensure all opening and closing checklists for outlet/function are completed correctly and on time.

•Monitor employee performance and provide feedback and coaching.

•Ensure all charge and cash handling policies and procedures are followed at all times and that cash floats are properly maintained and secured during and after shift.

•Ensure staff is well trained, knowledgeable and conversant with all menus.

•Assist with employee performance reviews in accordance with hotel guidelines.

•“Touch” each table during shift and use knowledge of guest and name to ensure a high level of guest recognition and personalized service.

•Assist in conducting physical inventories of all linens, china, beverages and other supplies.

•Prepare storeroom requisitions.

•Ensure accurate recordkeeping as required and track daily sales.

•Establish and maintain departmental communication, maintaining Daily Log Book for shift; keep manager fully informed on a timely basis of any problems or need for action.

•Maintain controls of inventory and keys.

•Attend all daily briefings, meetings and training as required.

Requirements: •Minimum 3 years’ experience in a hotel restaurant preferably in a luxury hotel.

•Accuracy and attention to detail.

•Excellent communication skills, both written and spoken.

•Able to stand for long periods of time.

•Able to carry up to 20kgs.

•Must have excellent mathematic skills.

•Able to handle a fast-paced environment and be able to work under pressure.

•Must be organized and detailed oriented.

•Guest Satisfaction (comment cards, website postings, in-person feedback) •Attendance and timeliness

•Completion of work assignments (safely, timely, completely, correctly) •Achievement of sales and/or cost control goals •Salary range is $36,000-$40,000 per annum and is based on previous experience and qualifications SENIOR EXECUTIVE CHEF* Requirements: •10 years experience as an Executive Chef in luxury resort.

•Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience.

• Formal culinary degree or formal apprenticeship.

•Proven managerial experience in a fine dining environment.

•Practical creativity to provide innovative entrees and developing new, unusual market driven menus while meeting profit goals of property and menu engineering.

•Previous responsibility for food purchasing, including negotiating prices.

•Prior experience standardizing recipes, plating instructions and costing.

•Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts.

Duties Include: •Participate in the development and implementation of business strategies for Food and Beverage including development of annual budget, monitoring actual versus budgeted expenses and recommending menu pricing.

•Develop and implement menu and dining strategies.

•Prepare reports summarizing food and beverage profitability, customer satisfaction, etc.

•Lead monthly staff meetings.

Salary $55,000.00 per annum/Commensurate with qualification and experience.

POOL AND BEACH SUPERVISOR * •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 •Must have 5 years’ experience in luxury resort in similar capacity •Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Starting wage $8.00 per hour not including service charge and tips.

PROCUREMENT & LOGISTICS ADMINISTRATOR* Requirements: •Must have construction and/or engineering work experience (preferably within the Caribbean), including project administration, procurement and management of logistics.

•Required knowledge and skills:o International procurement. o Shipment consolidation. o Shipping/tracking. o Inventory and stock monitoring. o Material take-offs, quantities and job costing. o Labour allocation and manpower distribution reports. o Involvement in general project administration. o Strong negotiation skills • Working during inclement weather • 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 be proficient with computers, including Excel and Word Responsibilities: • Preparing regular inventory and cost reports.

• Plan, direct, and manage the central procurement activities of the company.

• Evaluate overall revisions, price and past performance of each purchase order and approve price increases.

• Research and evaluate commodity areas and make recommendations for standardization.

• Supervise and participate in the preparation of written financial and administrative reports.

Establish priorities, assign workloads and review the more difficult and complex assignments.

Interpret contract provisions and review purchase orders terms and conditions for accuracy and changes prior to bid and renewal.

• Provide liaison between vendors, contractors, and Company department • Demonstrate continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively and jointly to provide targeted service levels.

Salary for this position ranges from $3,000.00 to $4,200.00 and is based on previous

*POSITIONS MARKED WITH (*) ARE POSITIONS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. Interested applicants should apply to The Shore Club, Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday, and bring along an updated resume, or by emailing your resume to careers@theshoreclubtc.comno later than end of day Friday, February 23, 2018.

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 19

IMMEDIATE OPENING experience and qualifications.

FOOD AND BEVERAGE MANAGER* The Food & Beverage manager is responsible for all meal periods in all outlets and In Suite Dining. This individual will have a strong background in service and will lead the service team on the floor. The Food & Beverage manager will work closely with Chef de Cuisine and ensure guest experience is memorable and five-star.

Areas of Responsibility: • Timely analysis of Food & Beverage Prices in relation to competition.

• Participation and input towards F&B Marketing activities.

• Attendance and participation at weekly F & B meeting and Department Head meeting.

• Supervision of weekly payroll input.

• Assure the maintenance of bar control policies.

• Assure completion of requisitions where deemed necessary.

• Assure the completion of weekly schedule and shift duties while: a. maintaining a labour cost in accordance with budget b. assuring adequate and consistent service levels • Improvement on guest satisfaction index – comment cards, online reviews, departure surveys • Completion of monthly inventory.

• Ensuring that services meet customer specifications.

• Work with the Chef, Dining Room Manager, Bars Manager and Food & Beverage Supervisors to ensure all arrangements and details are dealt with.

• Establish a rapport with guests to ensure satisfaction and repeat business.

• Minimize number of customer complaints.

• Ensure a professional attitude and proper business attire when on property, ready to meet or service a client at any time.

• Ensure staff have professional attitude and proper appearance and uniform standards.

• Teamwork-Relations with co-workers and management.

• Recruitment and selection of employees for vacant positions.

• Responsible for staff training and development of service team Requirements: • Minimum 6 years’ experience in a hotel restaurant preferably in a luxury hotel.

• Accuracy and attention to detail.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and spoken.

• Able to stand for long periods of time.

• Able to carry up to 20kgs.

• Must have excellent mathematic skills.

• Able to handle a fast-paced environment and be able to work under pressure.

• Must be organized and detailed oriented.

• Achievement of budgeted food sales, beverage sales, labour costs and profitability.

• Development and training of all service employees • Salary range is $42,000-$50,000 per annum and is based on previous experience and qualifications

PASTRY CHEF* Requirements: • Must have previously worked as a pastry chef for a minimum of 5 years in a luxury Resort.

• Demonstrate understanding of the technical skills for assigned area (all kitchen work stations).

• Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience.

• Experience with, and are comfortable preparing a variety of different pastries in a fine dining environment.

• Understand the importance of consistency.

• Knowledge of food preparation techniques and health/safety requirements.

• Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts.

Duties include: • Assists in creating and developing dishes for the pastry department • Ensures the highest quality of product within cost constraints by participating in the preparation of baked goods, pastries, desserts, ice carvings and show pieces • Assists in creating daily specials and signature desserts • Assist in producing the production of all pastry items, ensuring the right quantity and the highest standards of quality • Maintenance of pastry equipment • Requisition food with necessary approvals according to policy Starting salary $6.25 an hour not including service charge.

HVAC/MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN* • Understand basic refrigeration cycle to include: identifying components in refrigeration circuit, understanding how each component works, diagnosing problems in the refrigeration circuit, using manifold gauge set, pressure/ temperature chart and temperature measuring devices for routine maintenance and to troubleshoot. Understand refrigeration recovery, evacuation and charging.

• Understand basic electron theory, how electricity travels, AC and DC currents, single phase and three phase circuits, and series and parallel circuits. Read basic wiring diagrams.

• Use multi-meters to read voltage, current and resistance values. Troubleshoot basic electrical circuits.

• Understand the process of treating air so as to simultaneously control its temperature, humidity, and distribution. Read and understand mechanical drawings.

• Understand basic heating cycle to include: identify components in heating system, understand how each component works, diagnosing problems in the heating system using a gas pressure test and other devices Starting wage $7.75 per hour not including service charge and tips.

*POSITIONS MARKED WITH (*) ARE POSITIONS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. Interested applicants should apply to The Shore Club, Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday, and bring along an updated resume, or by emailing your resume to careers@theshoreclubtc.comno later than end of day Friday, February 23, 2018.

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

 Performs related work as assigned by the Director of Internal Audit, Risk and Compliance.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AUDITOR Applications are invited from interested and suitably qualified individuals for the position of Information Technology Auditor, FortisTCI, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands.

Description  This job will focus primarily on conducting performance, information technology and compliance audit projects; providing consulting services to the organization’s management and staff; identifying technology risks and independently evaluate the efficiency and effectiveness of information technology infrastructure, application controls (including information security); and coordinate the development of the annual audit plan.

Main Duties  Identifies and evaluates the organization’s information technology risk areas and provides key input to the development of the annual audit plan.  Performs audit procedures, including identifying and defining issues, developing criteria, reviewing and analyzing evidence, and documenting client processes and procedures.  Conducts interviews, reviews documents, develops and administers surveys, composes summary memos, and prepares working papers.  Identifies, develops, and documents audit issues and recommendations using independent judgment concerning areas being reviewed.  Communicates or assists in communicating the results of audit and consulting projects via written reports and oral presentations to management and the board of directors.  Develops and maintains productive client and staff relationships through individual contacts and group meetings.  Pursues professional development opportunities, including external and internal training and professional association memberships, and shares information gained with co-workers.  Plans and executes audits of client/server technology platforms and evaluates IT internal controls and works collaboratively with management to identify actions needed.  Conducts data extraction, analysis, and security reviews utilizing software tools.  Supports audits and consulting engagements related to programming, mainframe batch and online processes, client-server architecture, internet and intranet functionality, database extraction, technology strategy, and data communication and network security.  Acts as liaison with IT business partners to ensure full understanding of data flow, data integrity, and system security.  Assesses information technology control elements to mitigate IT risks regarding the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of business information.

IMMEDIATE OPENING

CHIEF ENGINEER*

Requirements: •Minimum of 7 years previous experience as Chief Engineer/Director of Engineering with experience in luxury resort •Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience •Thorough understanding of plumbing, electrical, HVAC and deep refrigeration with ability to quickly evaluate problems and decide on a plan of action •Experienced with waste water treatment plant •Understanding of all concepts behind landscape and grounds maintenance •Experience developing and implementing effective preventive maintenance programs •Knowledge of Opera system is also a definite plus •Must be able to work all days and shifts Duties Include: •Supervising/managing/overseeing maintenance and engineering departments as well as landscaping •Maintaining and refining preventive maintenance program •Develop and monitor annual operating , Capex and project budgets •Serve as project manager for renovation/upgrade projects including sourcing, vendors and establishing schedules and budgets Starting salary $50,000.00 per annum.

Academic/Technical/Management: Experience and Qualifications: Required:  Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science/Management Information Systems, Accounting, Business or equivalent combination of related work experience and education  5 - 7 years of internal or external IT auditing experience.

Preferred:  Advanced degree in Computer Science/Management Information Systems or equivalent education.  Completion of CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) , or CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer Abilities and Skills:  Must be tech savvy. Must have a solid base of computer skills related to hardware, software, networks, and cloud computing -- from installation to operation and repair. Programming knowledge is helpful, since IT auditing uses computer-assisted audit tools to perform many job functions.  Must continuously learn and monitor advancements in technology.  Proficient in using computer software (e.g., ACL, SQL, Excel) and application systems  Working knowledge of auditing processes/procedures  Must possess excellent team playing and leadership abilities  Comfortable with leading edge risk assessment methodologies.  Must possess strong inter-personal, organizational, multi-tasking and written and oral communication skills.  Must possess the ability to develop, monitor and maintain management information systems and procedures.  Skilled in collecting and analyzing complex data, evaluating information and systems, and drawing logical conclusions.  Skilled in planning and project management, and in maintaining composure under pressure while meeting multiple deadlines.  Skilled in negotiating issues and resolving problems.  Possess detailed technical skills in multiple platforms  High level proficiency in information technology control concepts and system development methodologies .

Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications Deadline for submission of applications (inclusive of a cover letter, resume and a FortisTCI application form) is Monday February 19, 2018: Avi Adams Manager, Human Resources FortisTCI Limited P. O. Box 132, Providenciales Email address: hrapplications@fortistci.com AND aadams@fortistci.com Fax: 649-946-4532

steward personnel •Issuing cleaning supplies to stewards, checking usage and making adjustments •Ensuring that kitchen floors and walk-ins are clean •Monitoring cafeteria and provide assistance to kitchen personnel during set-up and clean-up •Working with the Food & Beverage Director banquet orders •Taking inventory of and ensure proper amounts china, dishes etc. are available •Ensuring the training of and proper use daily of all safety, hygiene and sanitation Starting salary $35,000 per annum not including service charge.

STEWARDING TRAINEE MANAGER Requirements: •Looking for a bright, ambitious and focused person who wants to grow in the field of stewarding.

•Must have a passion or interest in working in the kitchens, equipment, food productions, sanitation, hygiene and safety.

•Must be willing to work late evenings beyond midnight as major banqueting events and functions require. Must be willing and able to assist in organizing and delegating large banquet functions.

•Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts including Saturdays and Sundays.

Duties Include: •Ensures the maintenance of clean, sanitized kitchen by supervising steward personnel •Issuing cleaning supplies to stewards, checking usage and making adjustments •Ensuring that kitchen floors and walk-ins are clean •Monitoring cafeteria and provide assistance to kitchen personnel during set-up and clean-up Working with the Food & Beverage Director banquet orders •Conducting regular inventory of and ensuring proper amounts china, dishes etc. are available •Assisting in ensuring the training of and proper use daily of all safety, hygiene and sanitation

STEWARDING MANAGER*

Requirements: • Prior experience managing the stewarding department of a 5 star Luxury Resort.

•Must have an excellent working knowledge of the kitchens, equipment, food productions, sanitation, hygiene and safety.

•Must be able to organize and delegate large banquet functions.

•Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts.

Duties Include: •Ensures the maintenance of a clean, sanitary kitchen by supervising

*POSITIONS MARKED WITH (*) ARE POSITIONS CURRENTLY HELD

BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. Interested applicants should apply to The Palms, Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday, and bring along an updated resume, or by emailing your resume to careers@thepalmstc.com, no later than end of day Friday, February 23rd, 2018.

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 21

Personal Insurance

Ask for home and car insurance with Colonial.

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Home insurance from Colonial comes with the security of a group of companies which has settled over $400 million in hurricane related claims since 2000. That’s real protection with valuable free benefits. If you add car insurance you will qualify for a discount too!

Ask for a quote.

Call 232-3195 or 941-3195 or visit www.cgigroup.com

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Suite 3D-A, Courtyard Plaza, Leeward Highway, Providenciales Tel. (649) 941 3195 www.cgigroup.com

Property and casualty insurance products are from Security and General Insurance Company Limited

A member of Colonial Group International Ltd. insurance, health, pensions, life

cgigrp

Page 22

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

IT’S A CELEBRATION!

Run, walk or cycle with us as we celebrate the 10th year of our Spring Fun Walk & Run! Prizes, giveaways, great food and fun for all!

Register today by emailing dkrzanowski@fortistci.com or visit our office.

Saturday, March 17th @ 5:30 a.m.

FortisTCI main office on Leeward HWY

www.fortistci.com | 649-946-4313

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 23

PUBLIC NOTICE Vehicular Damage to Power Lines and Poles FortisTCI wishes to remind operators of heavy equipment to take caution and be aware of nearby energized power lines during any excavation or transportation of wide or high loads. Motorists are also reminded to take caution while driving on roadways, and to be alert at all times to avoid collisions of any kind.

While accidents can occur, since January 1, 2018, the company has seen a significant increase in incidents involving utility poles or other electricity infrastructure. There have been a total of seven accidents to date, six resulting in broken utility poles and one resulting in damaged underground electrical cables due to excavation work by a third party.

These seven accidents caused 5,114 hours of service interruptions to 1,533 customers during January. There was also deployment of 202 hours of labor from the time of response to completion of repairs. Incidents such as these are costly to the company and electricity consumers.

Anyone who finds himself or herself involved in an accident with an electricity pole or wire should call 911 immediately. Staying in your vehicle is always the first choice. If you absolutely must exit because of other circumstances such as fire, jump clear with both feet together. Do not touch any other part of the vehicle. Then shuffle with both feet away from the scene until you are at least 20 meters, or 65 feet away. Contact with energized power lines is hazardous and may cause serious injury or death. Report downed power lines and poles to FortisTCI by calling 649946-4313 (dial option 1).

Have a question?

Please call our customer service department at 946-4313. www.fortistci.com | 649-946-4313 | 1030 Leeward HWY

Page 24

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

LOCAL NEWS

Cocktail Soiree hosted for 2018 Star Awards Nominees T

he biggest names in the hospitality sector gathered for a night of celebration as the Turks & Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) honors the crème de la crème in a Cocktail Soiree for the nominees of the 10th Annual Star Awards.

The event was held at Treasure Beach, Beaches Turks & Caicos on Thursday, February 8th as they recognize the accomplishments of the industry’s best.

For the first time, nominees in 18 categories will be honored across two events: a ‘Cocktail Soiree’ for all nominees which was held last week Thursday February 8th at Treasure Beach, Beaches Turks & Caicos, followed by the official 10th Annual Star Awards ceremony scheduled for 6pm on February 22nd at the

Croquet Lawn, The Palms Turks & Caicos which will honor the top three (3) finalists in each category.

Entertainment will be provided by Prime DJs.

The 19 prestigious awards up for grabs this year include: the Heart of Hospitality Award ; the Ambassador Award; TCHTA’s Shining Star; Employee of the Year; Supervisor of the Year; Manager of the Year; Housekeeper of the Year; Bartender of the Year; Chef of the Year; Executive Chef of the Year; Hotel of the Year; Hotelier of the Year; Restaurant of the Year; Taxi Driver of the Year; Entertainer of the Year; TCHTA Allied Member Restaurant of the Year; and the Allied Member of the Year. Nominations have been submitted from the association’s 200 members and will be revealed soon.

Half of the nominations are voted on by an independent panel of judges - people selected because of their standing and understanding of the industry, and the other half are voted on by the members. Winners are kept top secret and not announced until the night of the event.

A new category being introduced this year, the “Above and Beyond Award” will be given to 15 members of the community who are considered ‘hurricane heroes’, going above and beyond the call of duty to help and aid others in the aftermath of last year’s storms.

These individuals were nominated by the public and will receive their awards at the February 22nd event.

These photographs were captured to highlight the event.

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

LOCAL NEWS

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 25

Page 26

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

LOCAL NEWS

Turks and Caicos Collection awards outstanding staff members T

urks and Caicos Collection which is made up of the Alexandra Resort, Beach House and Blue Haven Resort hosted their annual Quarter Awards Ceremony to recognise those who have performed exceptionally well for each quarter of the year.

The event was held at Salt Bar & Grill, Blue Haven Resort on Tuesday February 6th, where over 74 staff members were recognised for standing out during their Third Quarter and Fourth Quarter and those who truly go above and beyond every single day to serve their guests.

Director of Human Resources, Wayne Garland told The SUN, “With the third quarter we had a very

strange event with the passage of both hurricanes Irma and Maria so it gave us a big setback. We had to close the properties down for a couple of months, but we were able to bounce back and we’re here to celebrate the third quarter and the fourth quarter combined for our staff and showing our appreciation for the hard and dedication that they give us on a daily basis.”

He added: “We had somewhere around 75 awardees, nominees, long service awards particularly is something that is really important to me because we want to recognise those persons that have given their services over the years, 10+ years to one establishment particularly in

Turks and Caicos is serious dedication because we know we have a lot of movement of staff.”

Sharmae Stubbs who has been with the company for 17 years is Turks and Caicos Collection’s longest serving employee.

Garland noted that this year they are dedicated to their staff and want to put a lot of emphasis into developing, promoting and giving them the education, the skills and the knowledge that they need to do their job the best.

The SUN brings you these photographs from the event.

Photos By: Todeline Defralien

Fontilla Norvilus, Wayne Garland.

Dache’ Williams, Vianel Filpo.

Dieubon Bataille, Wayne Garland.

Adam Foster, Tiffany Hanfield, Portia Mogal.

Nabil Chahwan, Therena Songiore, Rhonda Heath

Bernadette Benjamin, Wayne Garland.

Craig Thompson, Wayne Garland.

Gloria Thomas, Juan Cabral.

Gloria Thomas, Marsha Campbell.

Gloria Thomas, Natalia Thomas.

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 27

LOCAL NEWS

Nabil Chahwan, Yaniry Mireles Silva, Rosanyili Gardiner.

Sharmae Stubbs, Wayne Garland.

Stanley Forbes, Wayne Garland.

Madeline Jean-Gordon, Wayne Garland.

Nabil Chahwan, Elvis Byer, Andre Maragh.

Nabil Chahwan, Oniel Riley.

Milton Reid, Gloria Thomas.

Nabil Chahwan, Alberto Siprian.

Monestine Reneluc, Wayne Garland.

Jacklyn Gerbex,Vianel Filpo.

James Benjamin, Wayne Garland.

Kesner Felix, Wayne Garland.

Page 28

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 29

AMANYARA PROVIDENCIALES TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS EXECUTIVE HOUSEKEEPING MANAGER Amanyara Resort Turks & Caicos is seeking a suitable qualified individual to fill the position of an Executive Housekeeping Manager.

The successful candidate must display unquestionable integrity, good organizational skills and attention to details.

The Executive Housekeeping Manager is responsible for managing the daily operations of the Housekeeping and Laundry departments.

Must be able to oversee the hotel and laundry valet operation, tailor/seamstress, employee’s uniform and adjustments etc. Ensure mechanical equipment is kept in good repair condition and report any problems promptly to Technical Services Manager. This includes recruitment, training, and supervision of all employees, preparation and regular updating of procedures manuals, on-going training to ensure that standards are maintained and constantly improved upon, inventorying and ordering of all housekeeping operating supplies and equipment, ensuring laundry equipment is properly operated and maintained and assisting with Villa housekeeping operations as required. Must have a sound knowledge of all laundry equipment, use of Ecolab chemicals, detergents, fabric care and stain removal.

Due to the layout of the property, must be in good health and able to do extensive walking and stand for long periods of time.

College Degree in Hotel Management, Multi-lingual and Cultural experienced minimum of (5) year’s previous experience in a similar position at a 5-star resort. Must be a hands-on leader with strong administration/computer skills.

TRAINING OFFICER We are looking for a highly self-motivated professional who has a keen interest in training and development with a proven ability to effectively assess training needs, plan and implement training programs, conduct training and develop performance objectives to meet and exceed goals of the organization within a luxury resort environment.

include Eco Hikes, Snorkel Trips, Presentations, Guest Speaker Events, and Education. Regular maintenance of Touch Tank, Terrarium and other equipment within the Nature Centre. Must have a passion for the outdoors and a desire to learn more about the natural environment of the T.C.I.; a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Environmental Science or related field; enjoys working with children/teens of all ages is requirement. Must be a strong swimmer and enjoy snorkeling or diving, have first aid training, CPR and AED; additional skills requested but not required. Dive Certification, Water Safety Training, experience working with children of all ages; Bilingual, Guest & Sales Services experience.

UPHOLSTERY & TEXTILE SPECIALIST Amanyara Resort is looking for qualified Upholstery & Textile Individual with experience to plan, organize, execute and supervise upholstery, tailoring and heavy material projects for colleagues, guests and property in the assigned place of work, providing a courteous, professional, efficient and flexible service consistent with hotel policies & procedures in order to maximize guest and colleague satisfaction.

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, an experience is required for a Upholstery & Textile Specialist; this person should have an Associate Degree or completed three or four years of apprenticeship an several years of vocational training, in order to perform the job. Must have knowledge of training employees and working closely with Executive Housekeeping Manager.

VILLA HOUSEKEEPING SUPERVISOR Minimum 3-5 years’ experience as Senior Supervisor in the Housekeeping Department of a luxury resort. Must have good organizational and communication skills and detail orientated. Solid experience in managing and controlling inventories good computer skills. Friendly outgoing professional demeanor and immaculate presentation have proven experience in training housekeeping staff and a hands-on leadership approach

The successful candidate must be able to: •Develop programs, implement, and conduct training within the organization.

•Conduct assessment of training needs, develop programs for improvement and provide ongoing training for all employees as necessary.

•Conduct regular orientation and re-orientation sessions, research and update product knowledge with any new changes.

•Create brochures and training materials, develop multimedia visual aids and presentations.

•Develop and manage the training budget on a yearly bases, develop and implement training plans.

•Provide performance feedback, identify suitable talents for continuing education programs.

•Plan the implementation and facilitation of activities and events, budget spending, material production and distribution, and other resources to ensure that operations are managed within authorized budgets.

•Conduct follow-up studies of all completed training to evaluate and measure results; •Develop and maintain property communications such as bulletin boards and newsletters to ensure employees have knowledge of property events and general information.

•Exemplify the desired culture and philosophies of the organization.

Work effectively as a team member with other members of management and human resources.

•At least a Bachelor’s degree in Business Education or Training and Development.

•3 to 5yrs professional training and welfare experience within a luxury resort environment.

•Strong supervisory/managerial, leadership, communication and organizational skills.

•Proven ability to effectively conduct all aspect of training and development including events coordination.

All positions require a flexible schedule (which may include holidays, weekends and evenings) and extended hours on occasion. Salaries based on experience and qualifications.

NATURALIST The Naturalist will work with the Youth Coordinator to create organize and run various Nature programs at Amanyara. These

APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE FROM THE HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE BETWEEN 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM. E-mail amanyarahr@aman.com

MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR Minimum 3 years supervisory experience, preferably within a luxury resort environment. Previous experience in electrical engineering with maintenance of air-conditioning units, kitchen/laundry equipment, and desalinization plant and diesel gen-sets required. Must have good communication skills and be a team player. Valid driver’s license and computer skills a plus.

SECURITY OFFICER Amanyara Resort is looking for suitable qualify individuals to fill the post of Security Officer. The successful candidate will be responsible for the safety and security of all employees and guest at the resort, enforcement of safety rules and regulations, Loss and prevention procedures, protection of the company’s Assets, conducting patrols and carrying out ongoing investigations. The ideal candidate must have proper communications skills, high level of honesty and integrity with the ability resolve issues and follow all instruction given by his/her Superior. Two years resort security experience will be an Asset LAUNDRY ATTENDANT Must have a least 2 years’ experience as a Laundry Attendant, responsible for collecting and washing the used and dirty linens from guest, rooms and other parts of the hotels. Maintain hygiene of the working equipment and laundry cart, also should be able to respond to requests from supervisors, and management in an efficient and timely manner.

LABOURER Must have at least 2 years’ experience, reliable, strong, able to help clean ponds and swimming pools, hardworking and willing to work under the sun all day.Previous experience beneficial.

Page 30

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

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FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018 THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS CIVIL AVIATION

Allison Ingham

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

BOHIO DIVE RESORT

Is seeking to employ Cleaner for its Airport Office in Grand Turk Must be Reliable, Hard-Working and Trustworthy Salary is $7.25 per hour To work 4 Days a week 4 Hours Daily with Weekly Pay

Is seeking to employ a Domestic Worker Salary $6.25 per hour This position is currently held by a work permit holder Must be willing to work 6 days per week Contact number: 241-1556 #681421

IS LOOKING FOR A LABOURER TO WORK 6 DAYS PER WEEK AND HOLIDAYS SALARY $6.25 PER HOUR CONTACT: INFO@BOHIORESORT.COM

E9’S TAKE OUT

ALFREDA LTD.

Domestic Worker

Grand Turk NEEDS A MAINTENANCE MAN Salary $250.00 per Week To work 6 days per week Please Contact 2326534 (Epic corporate will make deposit in Grand Turk)

Is seeking a Baker To work 5 days per week Must be a Hardworking team player with excellent people skills.

Must be Willingness to work, weekends as required.

Salary $9.00 per hour Please Contact: 331-0221 This position is not held by anyone Belongers need apply only

Dale Robinson

Leota Rene Similien

In Grand Turk Is seeing a Labourer To work 6 days per week Salary $6.25 per hour Please Contact: 242-8206 #681419 #681421

J & H CONSTRUCTION

Grand Turk NEEDS AN ELECTRICIAN Salary $12.00 per hour To work 6 days per week Contact 232-6237

Is seeking a Labourer To work 6 days per week Salary $6.25 per hour Please Contact: 342-5316 #681421

Joanel and Annuela Charles

Is seeking 1 Domestic Worker To work 5 days per week Salary $6.25 per hour Please Contact: 347-3638

#681418 #681421

C.B.M.S. Ltd. 131 South Dock Road Providenciales Is seeking to employ a Project Analyst: Requirements and Responsibilities: • 10 years experience.

• Maintain communication with subcontractors and vendors.

• Prepare subcontractor pricing •Review bid requirements •Prepare construction budget • Maintain cost keys and price masters.

• Resolve cost discrepancies.

• Solve complex problems arising during ongoing projects.

•Developing technical specifications and diagrams.

Page 31

S&S Beauty Salon

GLAMOUR GIRL Is seeking: 1 Nail Technician, ($7.50 per hour) 2 Barbers, ($7.50 per hour) 2 Hairdressers ($7.50 per hour) 1 Helper ($6.25) per hour 1 Facial person ($7.00 per hour) 2 Domestic Workers ($6.25 per hour) I Yardman ($7.00 per hour) To work 7 days per week Please Contact: 347-2707

Is looking for 1 (One) Beautician To work 5 days per week Salary: $6.50 per hour Please Contact: 332-2122 #681415

Super Cuts Barber Shop

Restaurant Captain Position Available •Minimum of 6 years experience as a Captain/Head Waiter in fine dining establishments.

•Hospitality College education with classic silver.

•Service skills essential along with world wine knowledge, computer skills and supervisory experience.

Pay $9.00 per hour.

BELONGERS NEEDONLY APPLY. Working 6 days a week Pay Rate $6.50 per hr Contact 231-3617/232-3834

NEEDED IN SOUTH CAICOS

Application closing date: February 28th, 2018. Send resume to: magnoliaprovo@live.com

Caicos Bakery & Retail LTD

1 - Care giver 1 – Domestic worker Must work 6 days a week Salary: $6.25 per hour Contact 331-4475

Is seeking suitable qualified applicants to fill the following position: Baker & Pastry Chef Specialized in gluten free and organic products Have 5yrs experience in similar position Excellent Interpersonal skills Excellent written & verbal communication Ability to work within a team Must be a team player Suitable qualified candidates should apply in writing or send resume to: Caicos Bakery & Retail Ltd. Grace Bay Road (behind Caicos café) Phone (649)242-2266(Eric) Email: bakerytc@gmail.com

L.P CONSTRUCTION

Domestic worker needed

2 Masons needed salary $.10.50 Must work 6 days a week Contact 345:8326

To work 5 days a week Monday through Friday at $6.25 per hour Fluent in English is a MUST!!

Contact Stephen at 243-0004

#681423 #681421

Contact:331-0221 or 941-3400 This position is currently not held by anyone SEEKING TO FILL THE POSITION OF HEAVY DUTY MECHANIC: •Hourly rate $15 •6 days per week •10 years experience in this field •Responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of heavy duty equipment.

Contact:331-0221 or 941-3400 This position is currently not held by anyone SEEKING TO FILL THE POSITION OF MECHANIC ASSISTANT: •Hourly rate $9 •6 days per week •Assists in the repair and upkeep of

Heaven Duty equipment.

Contact:331-0221 or 941-3400 This position is currently not held by anyone SEEKING TO FILL THE POSITION OF A MECHANIC: •Hourly rate $16 •6 days per week •10 years experience in this field.

Contact:331-0221 or 941-3400 This position is currently not held by anyone SEEKING TO FILL THE POSITION OF HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: •Hourly rate $15 •6 days per week •10 years experience in this field.

•Certified in using construction Vehicles

#681418 #681421

Alex Higgs: Looking for Barbers Looking for Cashiers Looking for 2 Labourers Looking for 1 Domestic Worker Looking for 2 Beauticians To work 6 days per week Salary $6.50 per hour Please Contact: 243-5406 #681417

Salomon Morency

Is seeking a Labourer To work 6 days per week Salary $6.50 per hour Please Contact 242-5459 #681430

Sales & Marketing Manager wanted •Candidates must have at least 5-7 years managerial experience.

•Be able to drive sales and have proven record of company growth.

•Must have a current network of clients, agents and vendors.

•Complete understanding of cost controls, inventories and COG. •Need to be able to manage teams and leadership.

•Computer skills are a must, along with accounting and spreadsheet knowledge.

Salary base of $10/hr based on experience.

Please send resumes to dillonr2007@gmail.com or call 649-245-0127

such as bulldozers, all-terrain forklifts, Mobile cranes and backhoes.

Contact:331-0221 or 941-3400 This position is currently not held by anyone SEEKING TO FILL THE POSITION OF MARINE DRIVER SUPERVISORS: •Hourly rate $15 •6 days per week •10 years experience in this field.

Contact:331-0221 or 941-3400 This position is currently not held by anyone SEEKING A LABOURER • Hourly rate $8 •6 days per week Contact:331-0221 or 941-3400 This position is currently not held by anyone

Page 32

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

environmental standards are maintained as they relate to generation production and maintenance, fuel and lube handling.  Perform other duties as may be assigned from time to time.

SENIOR DIRCTOR OF ENERGY PRODUCTION Applications are invited from interested and suitably qualified individuals for the position of Senior Director of Energy Production, FortisTCI, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands.

Description  To provide a high quality of management expertise in all the company’s service territories in the areas of plant operations, installation and maintenance of production assets, fuel procurement and supplies, and engineering services in support of the Company’s production activities.  To understand the corporate vision and successfully gain support for and implementation of that vision.

Main Duties To provide strategic and managerial leadership to the Company’s Generating Plants under the General Direction of the Vice President Energy Production & Project Management. The duties include but are not restricted to the following:  Responsible to see that the generation of electricity is performed in a safe, efficient and effective manner on a day to day basis.  Responsible for the timely development and implementation of effective maintenance and reporting programs at all the company’s generating plants.  Responsible for the day to day coordination of fuel deliveries to the plants to ensure that there is adequate fuel supply at all times.  Responsible for the preparation and control of annual budgets as they pertain to the day to day operation of the plant.  Responsible to see that the Generation Plants are prepared to deal with hurricane season and to develop and implement a plan for recovery of the plants after a storm.  Responsible to see that two way communications are maintained with plant employees through regular minuted meetings.  Be familiar with all Company policies and procedures (including those established by past practice) relating to the position and to observe and enforce compliance with these policies and procedures.  Responsible to see that statistical records required by the company are kept as well as develop and maintain reports that will keep senior management updated with activities at the various plants.  Responsible for the development of electrical maintenance procedures for the production assets that maximize efficiency and reduce cost.  Responsible for planning and scheduling of electrical maintenance of the production assets.  Responsible for ensuring that the Company’s health, safety, and

DIRECTOR OF GRAND TRUK OPERATIONS Applications are invited from interested and suitably qualified individuals for the position of Director of Grand Turk Operations FortisTCI, Grand Turk Turks and Caicos Islands.

Description  To provide leadership in all aspects of the Grand Turk and Salt Cay operations  Ensure that the T&D systems on Grand Turk and Salt Cay are designed and maintained in a safe and efficient manner meet current and future customer needs.  To provide a high quality of management expertise in the areas of plant operations, diesel mechanical maintenance and upkeep, fuel supply and operations, and electrical and substation maintenance on the Islands of Grand Turk and Salt Cay  To ensure that the policies of FortisTCI are efficiently and effectively implemented at the Grand Turks and Salt Cay operations.  To understand the corporate vision and successfully gain support for and implementation of that vision.

Main Duties  Support the enterprise in all areas of electrical engineering and design on Grand Turk and Salt Cay.  Responsible to supervise and lead the T & D Design and engineering on Grand Turk and Salt Cay.  Responsible for the timely and cost-effective completion of line work to achieve a safe, reliable and sufficient supply of electricity on Grand Turk and Salt Cay.  Assist with determining the need for new equipment, tools, vehicles and materials on Grand Turk and Salt Cay.  Responsible to assist in annual budget preparation for Grand Turk and Salt Cay and ensure that spending is justified and within budget  Responsible for troubleshooting the electrical system for power restoration and improved reliability on Grand Turks and Salt Cay.  Assist with capital works on Grand Turk and Salt Cay.  Responsible to see that the generation of electricity is performed in a safe efficient and effective manner on Grand Turk and Salt Cay.  Assist with developing and implementing effective maintenance and reporting programs at the generating plants on Grand Turks and Salt Cay.  Responsible for the coordination of fuel deliveries to ensure that there is adequate fuel supply at all times in support of the Grand Turks and Salt Cay operations.  Responsible to see that the Generation Plant is prepared to deal with hurricane season and assist with developing and implementing a plan

Academic/Technical/Management: Experience and Qualifications: Required:  Degree in (Electrical or Mechanical) Engineering – Power option (4 year program), or an accredited equivalent.  This position requires 10 to 15 years’ experience with diesel generation.  Some mid-level management experience is required (or equivalent).  The Language of work will be English. The ability to write comprehensive reports as well as the ability to make verbal presentations in English is required.  Computer literacy is required (familiarity with Excel, Word).

Abilities and Skills:  Excellent team player and team building skills  Good analytical skills  Excellent written and oral communication skills  Ability to deliver to strict deadlines and to work under pressure  Ability to build strong trust relationships and maintain positive relationships internally and externally  Ability to communicate clearly the work priorities and direction of the departments  Ability to lead change processes, strong project management and time management skills  Solid numerical and budgeting skills  Must be goal oriented and self-motivated  Must possess strong, organizational, multi-tasking, analytical and problem solving skills  Must have a solid working knowledge of MS Office software programs, including MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and various databases.

Core competencies of the job description- Must be obtained upon request to apply.

Compensation commensurate with experience and qualifications Deadline for submission of applications (inclusive of a cover letter, resume and a FortisTCI application form) is Monday February 19, 2018: Avi Adams Manager, Human Resources FortisTCI Limited P. O. Box 132, Providenciales Email address: hrapplications@fortistci.com AND aadams@fortistci.com Fax: 649-946-4532 for recovery of the plant after a hurricane.  Responsible to see that communications are maintained with Grand Turk and Salt Cay operations, engineering and planning employees through regular minuted meetings.  Responsible for ensuring that job planning/tail boarding exercises are carried out and signed off prior to executing assigned duties or projects.  Be familiar with all Company policies and procedures (including those established by past practice) relating to the position and to observe and enforce compliance with these policies and procedures.  Responsible to see that statistical records required by the company are kept as well as develop and maintain reports that will keep senior management updated with activities on Grand Turks and Salt Cay.  Responsible for ensuring that the Company’s health, safety, and environmental standards are maintained as they relate to generation production, substation and electrical maintenance, and fuel and lube handling.  Perform other duties as may be assigned from time to time.

Academic/Technical/Management: Experience and Qualifications: Required:  A Degree in Electrical Engineering or Mechanical and 7-10 years post qualification experience in an electric utility environment.  Minimum of 15 years in the utility business with at least 5 years in a management role  Experience substation design and transmission terminations  Experience in all aspects of the electricity utility operations including generation, T&D, protection systems, relays, and SCADA Development.  Self-motivated, solution oriented and positive in outlook  Team player Abilities and Skills:  Excellent team player and team building skills  Good analytical skills  Excellent written and oral communication skills  Ability to deliver to strict deadlines and to work under pressure  Goal-oriented  Self-motivated Compensation commensurate with experience and qualifications Deadline for submission of applications (inclusive of a cover letter, resume and a FortisTCI application form) is Monday February 19, 2018: Avi Adams Manager, Human Resources FortisTCI Limited P. O. Box 132, Providenciales Email address: hrapplications@fortistci.com AND aadams@fortistci.com Fax: 649-946-4532

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

CARIBBEAN WORLD

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 33

CARIBBEAN NEWS

NEWS NEWS

CDB, UNICEF partner to improve quality of early childhood education in the Caribbean

International and Regional academicians, researchers and practitioners have convened in Antigua and Barbuda to discuss opportunities and plans for improving the quality of and access to early childhood education for Caribbean children ages zero to five. The three-day Early Childhood Development Regional Research Conference, themed “Early Moments Matter – Nurturing Care in the Early Years”, takes place February 13 to 15.

Despite a strong correlation between investment in early childhood development (ECD) and high levels of social and economic development, research suggests that the Caribbean still invests too little, or not at all, in early education. According to data collected by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), 25 percent of the Region’s children, mainly those from poor and vulnerable families, do not have access during critical developmental years. CDB and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have therefore partnered to produce the Caribbean Early Childhood Development Good Practice Guide, which launched officially on Tuesday during the opening ceremony of the Conference.

“CDB has taken a policy decision that early childhood education will be a priority for 21stcentury education. To this end, the Bank will deliberately work with our Borrowing Member Countries to reconfigure available capacity at the primary level to accommodate additional ECD places, establish standalone nursery schools and pilot model ECD centres to accommodate new classes in parallel with the training of early childhood

Students of the Beacon Light of the Nazarene School, Antigua and Barbuda hand over newly launched Caribbean Early Childhood Development Good Practice Guide to (from left to right) Ms. Monica La Bennett, Vice-President (Operations), Caribbean Development Bank; Hon. Michael Browne, Minister Education, Antigua and Barbuda; Dr. Aloys Kamuragiye, UNICEF Representative, Office for the Eastern Caribbean teachers,” Monica La Bennett, Vice- he said. “Inequity begins in the first President (Operations), CDB told days of life, and so must our efforts to attendees. close the gaps that prevent scores of

Research shows that every children from realizing their right to dollar spent on ECD results in a return develop fully and thrive.” of seven dollars, and highlights a strong Supported by scientific correlation between countries that evidence that nurturing care and invest heavily during these early years, protection in the earliest years and those with high levels of economic can positively boost developmental and social development. Citing this outcomes, Dr. Kumaraguye noted that data, La Bennett called for greater “Early Moments Matter” is more than a collaboration and cooperation among campaign.

Regional stakeholders, including

“It is a rallying call to between donors and borrowers. development partners, governments,

The cost of inaction, says the private sector and caregivers as a Dr. Aloys Kumaraguye, UNICEF whole, to place our youngest citizens at Representative for the Eastern the centre of development,” he added.

Caribbean Area, is enormous, and has The Government of Antigua profound implications. and Barbuda is prepared to answer

“The evidence compels action,” that call said the Hon.Michael Browne,

Appeal court reserves ruling in case involving former Prime Minister

Former Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller will have to wait until February 23 to know whether or not by some opposition legislators to have the so called “Trafigura affair” case go before the London-based Privy Council, the island’s highest court.

Last year, the Appeal Court dismissed their appeal against a Supreme Court ruling that Mrs Simpson Miller, Phillip Paulwell, Robert Pickersgill, Colin Campbell and Norton Hinds, must testify in open court about the J$31 million (One Jamaica dollar=US$0.008 cents) donation by Trafigura Baheer to the PNP in 2006.

On Thursday, the Court of Appeal reserved its decision following an application by the attorneys for the former prime minister and the other appellants for leave to take their case to the Privy Council.

In applying for leave to the take the matter to the UK, the attorneys argued that the Appeal Court had incorrectly interpreted section 16 of the Constitution which gives protection to Mrs Simpson Miller and the others not to be compelled to give testimony publicly.

The Director of Public

Former Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller Prosecutions (DPP) which represents the Dutch government opposed the application, urging the Court to reject the application on the ground that the constitutionality of the ruling of Justice Campbell had been challenged before the Constitutional Court which rejected the arguments.

The Dutch Authorities want to question the former prime minister and PNP president and the senior PNP members but they have challenged the ruling to give statements in public.

Under Dutch law it’s illegal for companies to donate to political parties. At the time of the donation, Trafigura had an oil-lifting contract with the then PNP administration.

Minister of Education.

“We are in the process of building a modern early childhood institute, and it is not just teachers who are going to be trained,” he said.

“We are opening up the opportunity so that scholarships can be given to the elderly and retired in our communities, who would otherwise be babysitting, to have an opportunity to train, then go back to their homes with the understanding that these are the values that you impart to youngsters.”

The programme promotes quality teaching, quality tools and a quality environment, three pillars upon which Antigua and Barbuda is building to facilitate improved ECD.

Across the Region, UNICEF’S capacity-building efforts in ECD include support for child-centered and developmentally appropriate environments for quality early experiences, establishing social protection systems to improve the lives of children in vulnerable situations, and engaging with parents and families to strengthen their capacity to provide nurturing and responsive care.

In addition to partnering with UNICEF to produce the Good Practice Guide, CDB’s Vice-President told Conference delegates that the Bank will, over the next five years, support ECD projects, including the construction of 22 pre-primary schools in Belize. CDB, she said, will also collaborate with some of its Borrowing Member Countries to support the customization and implementation of early stimulation and emergent learning programmes to benefit approximately 7,400 pre-schoolers.

St. Lucia launches ambitious agribusiness project

St. Lucia has launched a multi-million dollar project aimed at strengthening agribusiness operations within the context of climate change.

The US$1.8 million InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB) funded Sustainable Agribusiness for Laborie and Environs (SABLE) project is intended to benefit farmers and fisherfolk mainly in the south of the island.

“The project is innovative as it will deliver financial support for the adoption of climate resilient practices and improve livelihoods for our members. In addition, the project explicitly connects market opportunities, investment capital, capacity building and technical support,” said Steven Auguste, president of the Laborie Co-operative Credit Union (LCCU), which is executing the programme.

He said this is being done through a blended financial intervention to support greater climate resilience, environmental and commercial sustainability of small agro production, and fishing in the south.

“The LCCU is extremely well positioned to facilitate and support

the successful implementation of the proposed intervention in climate change adaptation of farmers and fisherfolks,” Auguste said.

LCCU general manager Lucius Ellevic said fisherfolks and farmers are not doing well because the systems and methods which are supposed to help them sell and generate revenue from their production have failed them.

“Thus is the salient area in which this project will address itself,” he said.

Prime Minister Allen Chastanet said the government fully supports the project and that it is the intention of his administration “to ensure that there is a clear market space for fresh fruits as well agro processing.

“That is why the development of the south is so critical,” he said, noting that development projects such as hotels which will soon commence in the south creating opportunities for farmers.

“What is taking place here is timely…I am appealing to farmers to make use of the opportunities we have provided under this project,” Chastanet said.

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FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

CARIBBEAN NEWS Caribbean’s Next Top Model Expands to The Bahamas as Season 4 Kicks Off on Flow TV

Love is in the air and so is the buzz around Season 4 of Caribbean’s Next Top Model (CNTM) as it expands to include aspiring young hopefuls from The Bahamas when it kicks off on Valentine’s Day, February 14 at 9pm on Flow 1.

According to Garry Sinclair, Caribbean President, C&W Communications, “We’re delighted to be on-board once again for the 4th season of CNTM which continues to draw bigger and bigger audiences as a platform for young Caribbean women to develop careers in the fashion industry.”

Viewers are in for another captivating series which was filmed against the vibrant, rhythmic backdrop that is uniquely Jamaica,

home of Season 3 winner, Shamique Simms.Miss Universe ‘98, Wendy Fitzwilliams who is also Executive Producer, Host and Chief Judge along with the sought-after fashion designer Socrates McKinney and world renowned Australian photographer, Pedro Virgil all return to the screen this season. Theexpansion to The Bahamas together with the poise, grace and stunning appearance of the aspiring models set against the eclectic charm of the islands makes for another scintillating series.

The off-screen excitement continues via social media as Caribbean viewers canfollow their favourite girls on the show using the #CaribeNTM for exclusive behind-thescenes footage and candid interviews.

Flow customers will have the added benefit of watching on-the-go from their tablet or mobile device with the MyFlow app as well as catch up on the past three seasons of CNTM with Flow’s Video on Demand.

Sinclair added, “Flow is committed to building Caribbean content for Caribbean audiences. In the end, regardless of who wins, the Caribbean benefits from productions that showcase the diversity, energy, talent and creativity of our people for the world to see.”

Executive Producer Fitzwilliams lauded the production team and the aspiring models as well asshe praised Flow for their commitment to the project. “It has been a tremendous challenge to take

Cayman closes in on 26,000 work permits

There were 25,870 work permits and government contracts for non-Caymanian workers active in the Cayman Islands as of Tuesday, according to records from the Immigration Department.

Those figures represent the highest numbers reported by the department since fall 2008, when there were nearly 26,700 permits for foreign workers held here, just before the world financial markets’ collapse hit Cayman’s economy. “With gross domestic product growth in 2017 at a respectable 2.4 percent … and an economy that has seen falling rates of Caymanian unemployment, 6.2 percent at the last survey, and low inflation, this is indeed an economy worth celebrating,” Premier Alden McLaughlin told a packed hall at the Cayman Economic Outlook event last week. It’s a long way from 2010-2011, when Caymanian unemployment stood near 10.5 percent and work permit numbers had fallen to around 19,000.

Still, Premier McLaughlin believes the overall unemployment rate of 4.2 percent at last check – including Caymanians and nonCaymanians – can be improved upon.

“There are Caymanians who feel left behind,” the premier said. “We must not ignore them.

Indeed, neither government nor business can afford to ignore them.”

In its most recent labor force report, the government identified just more than 1,400 Caymanian jobless as of fall

2017. Chief Executive Officer show a number of interesting of CML Offshore Recruitment trends. Aside from growth in Steve McIntosh believes the the private sector, the number premier’s push for full Caymanian of workers on contract with unemployment is achievable in government has increased since the current business climate.

2017. Records show more than “He wants every 1,100 people now hold fixed-term Caymanian who is willing and contracts with government. They able to work to find a job,” Mr. are either non-Caymanians or McIntosh said during a recent Caymanians who are over the interview. “That’s legitimate and retirement age. it’s achievable, but I’m not sure the Overall, Cayman is now government always approaches it home to at least 1,000 work permit from the right direction.” holders belonging to each of seven

Mr. McIntosh said different nationalities: Jamaican, the task of placing 1,400 or so Filipino, British, Canadian, unemployed Caymanians using American, Indian and Honduran.

8-10 staff members at the National Based on immigration records Workforce Development Agency is released since 2007, it is the first a daunting one for government. time that has ever been reported By comparison, recruitment firms by the Immigration Department. such as CML have more staff Jamaicans still make up trying to place fewer workers in the largest group of work permit specific industries. holders at nearly 42 percent.

“They have a way tougher They are followed by Filipinos job,” he said of government’s task. at nearly 14 percent, British “The NWDA has to find a job for [from England, Wales, Scotland all candidates in order to succeed and Northern Ireland] at 7.6 in its mission. Think about the percent and Canadians at 4.8 amount of time you’d have to percent. Canadians just edged spend with one unemployed out Americans as the fourth most person to get them into full-time populous nationality here on work work. That’s many, many hours. permits in the most recent tally by They are just overwhelmed. In my the Immigration Department. view, they should probably have The 25,870 permit holders at least four or five times as many include individuals working staff.” with permission of the chief

“But there’s no reason immigration officer as they await why [full Caymanian employment] determination on permanent can’t happen as long as their residence applications or work salary expectation is in line with permit appeals. They also include their skills and qualifications,” temporary work permit holders Mr. McIntosh said. [those here on three- or sixThe work permit statistics month permits] and employees produced following a Cayman permitted to work within the Compass open records request special economic zone.

Man convicted on charges of stealing women’s bras

A magistrate has sentenced a 53-year-old man to four years in prison after he admitted stealing women’s underwear because “I wanted to lie on them”.

Magistrate Margaret Alert noted that Vincent Coutou had in the last 10 years recorded six convictions and had been charged 39 times during his lifetime.

The court heard that last Monday that the owner

of the bras had washed her clothing and hung them on a line to dry. But when she returned she discovered six missing. The theft was captured on camera.

When he was arrested, Coutou confessed to the robbery, saying “Yes officer, I take she bra and them. I just wanted to lie down on them. It on the floor in my room.”

Coutou was charged with stealing the Bali bras together valued TT$2,000 (One TT

dollar=US$0.16 cents), a TT$5,300 brush cutter, a brushing cutlass valued TT$120 and also a power washer costing TT$3,500. They were taken at different times from three people last Monday.

The magistrate said that the maximum sentence for the offences was five years in prison. Coutou was sent to jail for four years with hard labour on each charge. The sentences are to run concurrently.

a production of this magnitude from a mere concept to amazingly a 4th season. Thanks to Flow for sticking with us, and thanks to the production team and the girls for showing up every season.

Additionally, we couldn’t have done it without the support of the Caribbean people, and our loyal viewers - thank you.Stay tuned to Flow 1, the only place you can catch CNTM every Wednesday at 9pm. Let the season begin!”

“Caribbean’s Next Top Model” is produced by Starfish Media Ltd, based on the “Next Top Model” format licensed by CBS Studios International.

Executive Producers are Dionyse Fitzwilliam, Wendy Fitzwilliam and Kiran Maharaj.

Loaded gun recovered from man’s hotel room

Police seized this .38 revolver with six rounds in it during a search of the hotel room

James Harris Winton Jr., 37, appeared in Summary Court on Monday facing charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and six rounds of ammunition.

Crown counsel Aaliyah McCarthy told Magistrate Valdis Foldats that police obtained a search warrant and on Feb. 7, and went to the Holiday Inn, where Mr. Winton had been staying. In a specified room, in the room safe, they found a .38 revolver with six rounds in it.

A police press release indicated that when Mr. Winton was arrested, he had a quantity of substance believed to be cocaine and he was suspected of having consumed cocaine.

Mr. Winton was described in the press release as a George Town man; he is originally from George Town but has been residing in West Bay.

Ms. McCarthy said the defendant had admitted the gun was his and the woman in the room had nothing to do with it.

No plea was entered, however, since the papers in the case were not yet ready to give to the defense.

Defense attorney Lee Halliday-Davis applied for bail. She told the court that Mr. Winton’s passport had been seized during the search. A Caymanian, he has children here as well as his girlfriend, his mother and grandmother.

This was a very serious matter, the attorney acknowledged, but Mr. Winton had given “full and frank disclosure … he has taken responsibility,” she said.

He was willing to wear an electronic monitor and abide by a curfew; he had just inherited some money and could put up $12,000 as a surety, she added.

The magistrate withheld bail, saying that anyone who has a loaded gun is operating outside normal behavior for Cayman citizens.

He pointed out that Mr. Winton could take his bail application to the Grand Court.

Meanwhile, he was remanded in custody to return to Summary Court on Feb. 26 via video link.

Possession of an unlicensed firearm is a charge that can be dealt with in either Summary Court or Grand Court.

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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CARIBBEAN NEWS

PM gets approval to sue opposition spokesman

Prime Minister Gaston Browne legality of the transfer of funds to the has been given permission to sue the foundation.” spokesman for the opposition United However, she said that it is Progressive Party (UPP), Damani important to note that the court was Tabor for defamation. not asked to determine what the words

This week, High Court Master mean to the court, but rather what they Fidela Corbin-Lincoln gave the ruling, could possibly convey to the ordinary paving the way for legal action against person who would read into the words Tabor whose words allegedly suggested “an implication” more freely than a that the prime minister was involved in lawyer and may indulge in a certain criminal wrong doing and misfeasance amount of loose thinking. through the alleged transfer of five She elaborated that, “It million dollars to his wife’s charity is possible that some reasonable Share Incorporated. members of society may infer that the

The prime minister has stated transfer of the funds from the contended that no such transfer ever treasury to a charity controlled by the took place. claimant’s wife was irregular.”

In the nine-page ruling, the The Master also said it is Master of the Court wrote that while possible that some reasonable people she, as a legal officer, does not find that may infer that the prime minister, the words complained of connote any being the husband of the person in illegality or corruption, she must bear control of the foundation to which the in mind this is not what she was asked funds were allegedly transferred, may to consider. have some knowledge of the issue of

She wrote, “The entire tenor the disbursement of the funds by the or thrust of the words appears to me, foundation. to relate to questioning how funds “Treating the pleaded transferred from the treasury to a meanings as the most injurious foundation controlled by the claimant’s possible meaning and being most wife were spent rather than the generous rather than parsimonious, I

Prime Minister Gaston Browne find that the words complained of are capable in their ordinary and natural meaning and/or by innuendo of meaning that the claimant is guilty of corruption, misfeasance in public office and/or was in breach of his fiduciary duties,” she added.

Senior Counsel Anthony Astaphan represented the prime minister and he said, the next step is to proceed to trial.

This is “to determine whether on the natural and ordinary meaning, as well as by innuendo, whether the words mean [corruption] and whether Mr. Tabor would finally be able to put his money where his mouth is and produce the evidence that the money was in fact transferred to the foundation.”

The lawyer said it is public knowledge that the money was not paid to the charity.

The prime minister had announced in the 2016 Budget presentation, that a governmentowned venture capital fund would be created at the Antigua and Barbuda Development Fund (ABDB), and that his wife, Maria Bird-Browne, through her charity, Share Incorporated, would partner with the government to play a role in financing the initiative.

She had pledged to inject $500,000 to be used to help female entrepreneurs.

Browne later confirmed that the government had injected EC $2.7 million (US $1 million) into the ABDB and that his wife had already made her contribution to the initiative through her Share Incorporated charity.

Government outlines new tax measures in near billion dollar budget

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines government has announced a series of tax measures including a “rainy-day fund” it said had been lauded by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.

Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves, delivering his first ever national budget to Parliament on Monday night, said that nationals would benefit from a reduction in the tax burden, while a Climate Resilience Levy will be imposed on visitors.

Gonsalves, who became finance minister last November, outlined the fiscal measures that will accompany the EC$993.5 million (One EC dollar=US$0.37 cents) budget that got the nod of legislators, minus of the opposition last week.

The budget represents a 1.7 per cent increase over the approved 2017 fiscal package and includes the first surplus in years.

The 2018 budget is comprised of recurrent expenditure, inclusive of Amortisation and Sinking Fund Contributions of EC$776.8 million and capital expenditure of EC$216.6 million.

The Ralph Gonsalves government is anticipating that this

Hundreds of Haitians detained, false documents seized

year’s budget will be financed by current revenue of EC$62.6 million and capital receipts of EC$371.8 million.

Gonsalves told legislators that the change in the tax regime will result in the government losing an estimated EC$12 million in revenue, which he said the authorities would seek to recoup by clamping down on tax defaulters.

“The government is committed to reducing the tax burden on Vincentians while simultaneously ensuring that those who flout our tax laws are given an opportunity to choose between regularising their arrears or facing the full range of legally available enforcement measures.

“Additionally, we intend to implement a series of legislative and administrative enhancements to our tax-collection apparatus to optimise efficiency and fairness,” Gonsalves said.

The budget, which was presented in the absence of opposition law makers, will also allow for introduction of a value added tax (VAT) on domestic electricity consumption at 150 units rather than 200.

Gonsalves announced that the

Dominican Republic authorities say they have detained more than 250 Haitian nationals and seized a number of illegal documents during raids in several areas including the city.

They said the raids during the week netted the illegal Haitians as well as dozens of fake cards of the National Plan for the Regularization of Foreigners (PNRE), false visas and Dominican identity cards (cédulas).

Immigration and military officials said that most of those

standard rate of company taxes will be reduced from 32.5 to 30 per cent, resulting in loss revenue of EC$5.1 million.

He said the marginal rate of personal income tax will also fall by 2.5 percentage points to 30 per cent, resulting in the government foregoing an estimated EC$4.2 million in revenue this year.

Gonsalves said that these rates of taxes were 40 per cent when the Unity Labour Party (ULP) administration came to office in March 2001.

The income tax rate for hotels has been reduced from 30 to 29 per cent and Gonsalves said “this reduction and the special rate for hoteliers is a tangible indication of this government’s continued prioritisation of local hotel growth and development”.

The government also announced that it would raise the standard reduction for personal income tax from EC$18,000 to EC$20,000.

“This means that the first EC$20,000 earned by Vincentians will not attract any income tax,” he said, noting that when the ULP came to office, only the first EC$12,000 was exempt. He said the measure would

detained would be repatriated to Haiti and that the raids formed part of the clampdown by authorities in the two countries to prevent the sale of illegal products at traffic lights, avenues and public places.

They note that in recent months, several thousands of falsified PNRE cards and hundreds of fake Haitian passports have been seized by the Dominican authorities.

But the authorities warn that Haitians, who risk expulsion are easy prey for networks of counterfeiters of

result in an EC$2.7 million decline in revenue

“These measures continue the commitment of this government to provide economic stimuli via tax reductions and to improve, in practical and tangible ways, the condition of the Vincentian worker. Nationally, the lowering of the tax rate and the raising of the threshold will cost the government approximately $12 million,” he said.

Gonsalves said that prior to 2009, the first full year of the global economic crisis was the last occasion on which some tax relief was provided for the workers and the private sector in respect of profits and personal income tax.

“An internal analysis was conducted and it was concluded that it is time once more to do so. This is accessed to be the occasion for this substantial tax relief,” he told legislators, noting that in total, the government will lose an estimated EC$12 million in revenue due to the tax reductions.

Gonsalves said that as of May 1, this year, the government will reduce the kilowatt threshold for VAT from 200kWh to 150kWh.

Dominican and Haitian thugs, who sell the PNRE cards at high prices.

They said the cards are immediately discovered during a biometric check.

“Remember that these falsified cards that usually usurp the identity of a Haitian regularly registered with the PNRE, lead to the expulsion of the holder but also to the exclusion of the PNRE and the expulsion of the real owner if the latter does not can prove that he has filed a prior complaint for the theft of his card,” they said in a statement.

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

NEWS

Mexico foreign minister heads to Caribbean to win over Venezuelan allies

Mexico’s foreign minister will travel to Jamaica, Grenada and Saint Lucia in March, a Mexican official said on Thursday, as part of efforts to erode Venezuela’s oil-based influence in the Caribbean.

Meanwhile, Cuban diplomats will visit Mexico in March to discuss the regional impact of the crisis in Venezuela, the official said. The Cuban embassy in Mexico City said the trip was not yet confirmed but that the two countries have regular bilateral meetings. Still, there are no signs that Cuba, a steadfast ally of Caracas, is ready to turn its back on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

Mexican Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray’s planned trip follows a visit to Latin America and the Caribbean earlier this month by U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, who announced plans to study how possible oil sanctions against Venezuela could be mitigated in the Caribbean.

The Mexican foreign minister’s trip represents the latest development in U.S.-led pressure on Maduro, who retains loyalty from some Caribbean nations that have long benefited from Caracas’ oil largess and have been unwilling to shun the country in regional diplomatic efforts.

“The message is: Venezuela is not the only country that can help (Caribbean nations), that if there’s a

crisis in Venezuela, they have more friends,” said the Mexican official, who was not authorized to speak publicly about the as-yet undisclosed trip.

The Mexican foreign ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The foreign ministries of Jamaica, Grenada and Saint Lucia could not be reached for comment.

Videgaray has led Mexico’s efforts to try and improve cooperation with its top trade partner on security, immigration, and foreign policy, hoping to convince the United States to take a softer stance on the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) that underpins the majority of Mexican exports.

U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to quit the pact if it cannot be improved to benefit U.S. workers.

On his way to Jamaica, Tillerson said the United States was closer to deciding whether to impose sanctions on Venezuelan oil, adding that Canada, Mexico and the United States were studying how to mitigate the impact of such a move.

Restrictions on Venezuela’s oil industry would represent an escalation of financial pressure on the OPEC member, which is gripped by severe shortages of food and medicine.

Mexican Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray arrives to a meeting with senators of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) at the Senate building in Mexico City, Mexico January 30, 2018 Such sanctions could also hurt U.S. refineries that process Venezuelan oil.

Sanctions have so far focused on individual members of Maduro’s government and a ban on buying new Venezuelan debt.

In a June meeting in Cancun, foreign ministers from the 34-nation Organization of American States (OAS) failed to reach agreement on a resolution criticizing Venezuela, with only 20 countries backing the proposal, shy of the 23-nation threshold.

Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Dominica voted against the resolution,

while Grenada, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago and Antigua and Barbuda abstained.

Jamaica and Saint Lucia backed the proposal.

Officials from other Caribbean nations will be present at Videgaray’s Jamaican stop, the Mexican official said, adding that the Caribbean trip represents an attempt to end the stalemate in the June OAS meeting.

“It’s a result of Cancun,” the official said. “There was a bloc in the Caribbean that wasn’t pulling in the same direction as the OAS.”

Reuters reported last year that Mexico was looking at the possibility of replacing Venezuela’s Petrocaribe program that provided cheap loans for oil to Caribbean nations - and has helped Maduro retain diplomatic support in the region.

However, the Mexican official said it was still not clear how Mexico could furnish Caribbean nations with cheap energy, given the country’s struggling domestic fuel production, and that Mexico relies on oil income for about a fifth of the government budget.

The energy ministry remains unconvinced by the oil diplomacy plan, led by Videgaray, but there are signs it is becoming more flexible, the official said.

FBI was warned about alleged Florida gunman, could not locate

The Federal Bureau of safety and mental health while Investigation was warned last year avoiding any mention of gun policy. about an ominous online comment by

“It is not enough to simply the 19-year-old man accused of killing take actions that make us feel like we 17 people in his former high school but are making a difference,” Trump said was unable to locate him, an agent said at the White House. “We must actually on Thursday. make that difference.”

Authorities said the ex-student,

Broward County schools identified as Nikolas Cruz, walked into superintendent Robert Runcie called the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High for action on gun laws.

School in Parkland, near Miami, on

“Now is the time for this Wednesday and opened fire with an country to have a real conversation AR-15-style assault rifle in the secondon sensible gun control laws in this deadliest shooting at a public school in country,” Runcie told a news conference.

U.S. history.

Democrats in the U.S. House

Cruz participated in the of Representatives sharply criticized activities of a Florida white nationalist the Republican leadership for refusing militia, the group’s leader said on Nikolas Cruz appears in a police booking to take up legislation on tightening photo after being charged with 17 counts background checks for prospective gun Thursday. of premeditated murder following a buyers.

“He had some involvement Parkland school shooting, at Broward with the Clearwater Republic of Florida “It’s appalling,” Representative cell at some point,” Jordan Jereb said County Jail in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, U.S. Mike Thompson told a news conference.

February 15, 2018 in a telephone interview.

“Thirty people every day are killed by

He may also have left warning to find the commenter, he added. someone using a gun, and the best we signs on social media. A person with his The FBI is conducting an can do is say we need more information?” name wrote a comment last year under extensive review of how it handled The Republican-controlled a YouTube video that read “I‘m going that tip to see if mistakes were made, Congress last year revoked Obama-era to be a professional school shooter.” a federal law enforcement official told regulations meant to make it harder The man who posted the video, Ben Reuters. for those with severe mental illness to Bennight, a Mississippi bail bondsman, Wednesday’s shooting was pass FBI background checks for guns, was alarmed and contacted the FBI, the 18th in a U.S. school this year, saying the rule deprived the mentally according to a video he posted online according to gun control group ill of their gun rights. late Wednesday.

Everytown for Gun Safety. It stirred At least one member of Trump’s

“No other information was the long-simmering U.S. debate on the cabinet called for Congressional action. included with that comment which right to bear arms, which are protected “Personally I think the gun would indicate a time location or the by the Second Amendment of the U.S. violence, it’s a tragedy what we’ve seen true identity of the person who made Constitution. yesterday, and I urge Congress to look the comment,” FBI Special Agent in President Donald Trump at these issues,” Treasury Secretary Charge Robert Lasky told reporters on addressed the shooting in a White Steven Mnuchin told lawmakers on Thursday. Investigators were unable House speech that emphasized school Thursday.

GAS MASK, SMOKE GRENADES

Authorities said Cruz wore a gas mask as he stalked into the school carrying a rifle, ammunition cartridges and smoke grenades. He then pulled a fire alarm, prompting students and staff to pour from classrooms into hallways, according to Florida’s two U.S. senators, who were brief by federal authorities.

Cruz was expected to appear in court Thursday afternoon for a bond hearing, said Constance Simmons, a spokeswoman for the state attorney’s office. He loved guns and was expelled for unspecified disciplinary reasons, police and former classmates said.

Cruz had recently moved in with another family after his mother’s death in November, according to Jim Lewis, a lawyer representing the family and local media, bringing his AR-15 along with his other belongings.

The family believed Cruz was depressed, but attributed that to his mother’s death, not mental illness.

The first victim of the attack was publicly identified on Thursday as Aaron Feis, an assistant coach on the school’s football team and a school security guard who was shot while shielding students, the team said on Twitter.

An armed law enforcement officer stationed at the school did not encounter Cruz during his rampage, Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel told reporters.

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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WORLD NEWS

Trump lawyer says he paid porn star $130,000 with his own money

Michael Cohen, personal attorney for U.S. President Donald Trump, talks to reporters as he departs after meeting with Senate Intelligence Committee staff on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S. September 19, 2017

A private lawyer for President Donald Trump says he paid $130,000 of his own money to adult film star Stormy Daniels who once claimed she had an affair with Trump more than a decade ago.

The payment to Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, was made during the 2016 presidential election campaign but the lawyer, Michael Cohen, said he was working alone and that it was not a campaign expense.

“Neither the Trump Organization nor the Trump campaign was a party to the transaction with Ms. Clifford, and neither reimbursed me for the payment, either directly or indirectly,” Cohen said in a statement issued on Tuesday night.

Daniels was quoted as saying in a 2011 interview with In Touch Weekly that she had an affair with Trump after they met at a Lake Tahoe golf tournament in 2006.

Trump has denied having an affair with Daniels.

The Wall Street Journal first reported in January that

Trump lawyer Michael Cohen counsel has submitted a response had paid $130,000 to Daniels in to the FEC,” Cohen said.

2016, the year Trump won the “Just because something presidential election. isn’t true doesn’t mean that it

In his most detailed can’t cause you harm or damage. account yet of what happened, I will always protect Mr. Trump,” Cohen said in his statement Cohen said, adding that he would that the payment was a “private not comment further. transaction”. He did not explain Common Cause said on why he made the payment or say Wednesday that the timing and whether Trump was aware of it. circumstances of the payment

The White House referred “make it appear that the hush questions about the payment to money was paid to Daniels in an Cohen. effort to influence the election.” It

Cohen’s statement was in called on the FEC to conduct a response to a complaint filed at full investigation. the Federal Election Commission The FEC confirmed by the Common Cause watchdog it received Common Cause’s group. complaint and declined to

Common Cause argued comment on the case. in its complaint that the Daniels’ manager, Gina payment amounts to a campaign Rodriguez, told Reuters that by contribution well in excess of issuing the statement, Cohen was the $2,700 limit to the amount in violation of a non-disclosure any individual can give, and it agreement with Daniels about the has asked the FEC to enforce matter and that Daniels believes campaign finance laws. she can now talk about it publicly.

“The complaint alleges “Yes, Stormy is going that I somehow violated campaign to talk,” she said via direct finance laws by facilitating an message on Twitter. She did not excess, in-kind contribution. The immediately respond to a question allegations in the complaint about when and where Daniels are factually unsupported and would be speaking publicly. without legal merit, and my

Teens face trial for alleged plot to kill Austrian police

Two Austrian teenagers have been charged with planning to kill as many police officers as they could in a jihadist attack on a provincial police station ordered by a Chechen member of Islamic State, according to court documents.

Two 19-year-Austrians and a 22-year-old Chechen who has lived in Austria since childhood will go on trial in Vienna on Wednesday. Details of the plot were reported by Austrian news agency APA, which cited a prosecutors’ charge sheet.

A court spokeswoman confirmed the report, which comes amid a series of jihadist attacks across the continent that have so far spared neutral Austria.

The plot came to light when authorities found internet chats that one of the suspects allegedly held with a German man accused in a separate case of plotting a jihadist bomb attack with the help of another Austrian teen.

According to the APA account, a Chechen IS member known as Abu Nuuh instructed one of the Austrian suspects in 2015 to murder police officers.

That suspect had fled to Austria from Chechnya in 2005 with his parents and, like his co-defendants, become radicalized in 2015.

The documents allege the suspects planned to rob a weapons shop in Sankt Poelten, the capital of Lower Austria province, and use the arms to attack a police station in the town.

“The plan was to shoot at police officers until we die,” the oldest suspect said in a confession, according to the court documents. The assault was never carried out after authorities made public an anonymous tip about the plan.

The suspects at first confessed after their arrests, but later said they did not plan to follow through on any attack given their fear and doubts about whether they were doing the right thing.

The trial is set to be held under tight security.

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U.S. 2018 elections ‘under attack’ by Russia: U.S. intelligence chief

Leaders of U.S. intelligence agencies warned on Tuesday that Russia will try to interfere in the 2018 U.S. midterm elections by using social media to spread propaganda and misleading reports, much as it did in the 2016 campaign.

Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats told a congressional committee that Russia and other foreign entities were likely to attack U.S. and European elections this year and beyond, adding that Moscow believes similar efforts successfully undermined U.S. democracy two years ago.

Coats, a former senator appointed by President Donald Trump as Washington’s top intelligence official, said he had already seen evidence Russia was targeting U.S. elections in November, when Republican control of the House of Representatives and Senate are at stake, plus a host of positions in state governments.

“Frankly, the United States

is under attack,” Coats said at the Senate Intelligence Committee’s annual hearing on worldwide threats.

Coats’ assessment runs counter to statements from Trump, who has cast doubt on the notion of Russian meddling and denied any collusion by his associates with Russia ahead of his surprise November 2016 defeat of Democrat Hillary Clinton.

U.S. spy agencies concluded more than a year ago that Russia used hacking and propaganda to try to tilt that election in favor of the Republican.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly denied this and Trump has said he believes him.

“There should be no doubt that Russia perceives its past efforts as successful and views the 2018 U.S. midterm elections as a potential target for Russian influence operations,” Coats said.

Coats said “persistent and disruptive cyber operations” would continue “using elections as

social and political fissures in the United States,” he said.

The charge of Russian meddling spawned a federal probe and congressional investigations into whether Trump’s campaign colluded with Moscow, throwing a shadow over the first year of Trump’s presidency.

Senators asked the intelligence chiefs during the hearing whether there was a plan in place to combat more hacking.

Director of National Intelligence Dan

Central Intelligence Agency Coats testifies before the Senate Armed Director Mike Pompeo and Chris Services Committee Wray, the director of the Federal opportunities to undermine democracy” Bureau of Investigation, also Trump in the United States and its European appointees, said there were significant, specific efforts under way, but did not allies.

Coats described a range of elaborate.

Government countermeasures ways in which Russia might try to influence this year’s vote. likely include going public with

“At a minimum, we expect concerns that Russian hackers will Russia to continue using propaganda, seek to influence the 2018 elections, social media, false-flag personas, said John Hultquist, director of sympathetic spokespeople, and other intelligence analysis with the cyber means of influence to try to exacerbate security firm FireEye Inc (FEYE.O).

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WORLD NEWS

UK border and immigration system unprepared for Brexit

The Union Flag and a European Union flag fly near the Elizabeth Tower, housing the Big Ben bell in Parliament Square in central London, Britain September 9, 2017

Government delays, uncertainty and under-resourcing have left the British borders and immigration system unprepared for Brexit, according to a parliamentary report on Wednesday.

Lack of clarity over immigration intentions is creating anxiety for EU citizens in the UK and putting already overstretched immigration officials in an impossible position, it added.

“The government does not seem to appreciate the immense bureaucratic challenge they are facing or how much time and resources they need to plan on Brexit,” it said.

The report by the House of Commons Home Affairs Committee criticized delays in publishing a socalled White Paper outlining the government’s postBrexit immigration plans.

Prime Minister Theresa May’s office has said it is considering various options for the post-Brexit immigration system and will set out its initial plans “as and when they are ready.”

But the committee said failure to set out immigration objectives soon will deny parliament and those affected the chance to debate plans before they are finalized.

“That is unacceptable,” it added. “We had expected these questions to be answered in the muchdelayed White Paper but its publication has been delayed further and it may not now appear until the end of this year at the earliest.”

May has warned that European citizens arriving in Britain after Brexit next year may lose some rights, setting up a clash with the EU over their treatment during any transition period before leaving the bloc.

Curbing immigration was a key reason why Britons voted to leave the EU in 2016, following a large influx of EU citizens, especially from poorer countries in eastern Europe.

“With little more than a year to go, the government is still failing to set out crucial details on the registration of current (EU) residents,” the report said.

Failure to set out detailed plans for the registration of foreign nationals and the transition period soon will make it impossible for immigration and border officials to do their job properly, it warned.

The government needed to clarify urgently whether it wants additional border checks after March 2019 when Britain leaves.

Ramaphosa elected president of South Africa, vows anti-corruption fight

Cyril Ramaphosa was elected as South Africa’s president in a parliamentary vote on Thursday and pledged to tackle endemic corruption after scandalridden Jacob Zuma resigned on orders from the ruling African National Congress.

The road back to prosperity and self-respect under Ramaphosa, 65, who became ANC head in December, will be long and hard in a nation still polarized by race and inequality more than two decades after the end of whiteminority rule.

Still, Zuma’s departure late on Wednesday provided evidence of the strength of South Africa’s democratic institutions, from the courts to the media and the constitution.

Ramaphosa, in brief remarks to parliament ahead of his first state of the nation address expected on Friday, said he would work hard “not to disappoint the people of South Africa”.

“The issues that you have raised, issues that have to do with corruption, issues of how we can straighten out our state-owned enterprises and how we deal with state capture (influence-peddling) are issues that are on our radar screen,” he said.

Ramaphosa was elected unopposed as Zuma’s permanent successor by parliament, and confirmed in the post by South African Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng, who had earlier read out the former president’s resignation letter.

Ramaphosa was expected to be sworn in later on Thursday, and to make any changes to the cabinet after his address on Friday.

The rand, which has gained ground whenever Zuma ran into political turbulence, soared to a near three-year high against the dollar on word of his resignation.

South Africa’s main stock market index jumped nearly 4 percent and headed for its biggest one-day gain in more than two years as investors hailed Zuma’s exit after nine years in office rife with allegations of sleaze and mismanagement.

Ratings agency Moody’s

President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa addresses MPs after being elected president in parliament in Cape Town, South Africa, February 15, 2018 said it was closely monitoring developments in South Africa, focusing on the policy implications of Zuma’s political demise.

The S&P Global agency said South Africa’s sovereign credit ratings and outlook will not be immediately affected by the change of the country’s leadership.

Ramaphosa, who will be president until elections next year, faces an uphill battle to earn back public and investor support.

But his stated commitment to boosting growth and stamping out graft has gone down well with foreign investors and ANC members who felt Zuma’s handling of the economy could seriously damage the party in the 2019 election.

Africa’s most developed economy needs faster economic growth if it is to reduce high unemployment - currently at 27 percent - and alleviate persistent, widespread poverty that aggravates inequality and stokes instability.

The economy, Africa’s most advanced, remains largely under the control of whites who held power under apartheid.

The 75-year-old Zuma said in a30-minute farewell address to the nation he disagreed with the way the ANC had thrust him toward an early exit after Ramaphosa replaced him as party president, but would accept its orders.

“Zuma did the right thing to resign. Yes, let’s see what Ramaphosa is having for us, thank

you,” said Hlengiwe Mswazi, an office worker in the capital Pretoria.

Tshepo Kgobane, also in Pretoria, said: “So it is a good thing that he resigned. We must have a party, a big party, we must throw a party because he resigned.

We wanted to see that.”

Zuma bowed out hours after police raided the luxury home of the Gupta family, the Indian-born billionaire allies of the former president who have been at the center of corruption accusations against Zuma and his circle for years.

Zuma and the Guptas have always denied wrongdoing.

“Defiant in defeat” and “Going, Going, Gone” were among the newspaper headlines that captured Zuma’s unwillingness to leave.

“South Africa’s long nightmare is over,” read the headline from online political news website Daily Maverick.

Julius Malema, leader of the far-left Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), led his party in a mass walkout from parliament on Thursday, saying it would not take part in the election of a new president so as not to legitimize an ANC candidate.

The EFF, which has six percent of the seats in parliament, had sponsored a no-confidence motion in Zuma that would have gone ahead on Thursday had Zuma not jumped.

The foundation set up to guard the legacy of the late antiapartheid icon and first black South African president Nelson Mandela said Zuma’s departure brought to an end “a painful era for the country”.

“One chapter in South Africa’s political soap opera has finally ended with the resignation last night of President Jacob Zuma,” NKC African Economics analysts wrote in a note.

“It would be gratifying to see the dedication and purpose the ANC put into ridding itself of Zuma now be directed into rebuilding the economy, dealing with the corruption still residing in the ANC and improving its shoddy governance record.”

Florida school shooting suspect a troubled ex-student who was ‘crazy about guns’

The man accused of opening fire at a Florida high school on Wednesday, killing 17 people, was a troubled former student who loved guns and was expelled for unspecified disciplinary reasons, police and former classmates said.

Nikolas Cruz, 19, was arrested about an hour after a shooting rampage at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel told reporters.

Cruz, who had been expelled from the school for reasons that have not been made public, was found with multiple ammunition magazines and one AR-15-style rifle, Israel said.

“We already began to dissect

his websites and the things on social media that he was on and some of the things that came to mind are very, very disturbing,” Israel said.

Chad Williams, 18, a senior at Stoneman Douglas High school, remembered Cruz as a troubled classmate from middle school. He said Cruz would set off the fire alarm, day after day, and finally got expelled in the eighth grade.

More recently, Williams saw Cruz carrying several publications about guns when they ran into each other at the high school. Williams thought Cruz was there to pick up a younger sibling.

“He was crazy about guns,” Williams told Reuters by the side of

the road near the high school. “He was kind of an outcast. He didn’t have many friends. He would do anything crazy for a laugh, but he was trouble.”

Jillian Davis, 19, said she was in a school Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps with Cruz in the 9th grade. She remembered him as a quiet and shy young man who would almost change personality when angry. He talked a lot about guns and knives but no one took him seriously, she told Reuters.

“I would say he was not the most normal or sane kid in JROTC. He definitely had a little something off about him. He was a little extra quirky,” said Davis, who graduated from the school last year.

Math teacher Jim Gard told the Miami Herald Cruz had been banned from returning to campus while carrying a backpack.

“There were problems with him last year threatening students, and I guess he was asked to leave campus,” Gard told the newspaper in an interview.

Administrators sent an email to teachers warning them about Cruz, Gard told the paper.

Another student, 17-year-old junior Dakota Mutchler, told reporters at a hotel in nearby Coral Springs that he hadn’t spoken with Cruz in more than a year. Students were reuniting with their parents and friends at the hotel.

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Senate Republican leader embraces Trump immigration plan

U.S. Senate Republicans on Tuesday turned up the heat on Democrats to accept demands from President Donald Trump for tougher immigration laws and a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border as part of legislation to aid young “Dreamer” immigrants.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Republican, backed legislation to encompass Trump’s “four pillars” of an immigration overhaul, which include plans to build the wall, end the visa lottery program and impose curbs on visas for the families of legal immigrants.

“This proposal has my support and during this week of fair debate I believe it deserves support of every senator who’s ready to move beyond making points and actually making a law,” McConnell said in a speech on the Senate floor.

The Trump “pillar” of immigration that is easiest for Democrats to accept is protecting some 1.8 million Dreamers who were brought illegally to the United States as children. Many Democrats are reluctant to help fund Trump’s longpromised wall, which is aimed at keeping out illegal immigrants but is seen by many lawmakers as too expensive and inefficient.

On Tuesday, a federal judge in Brooklyn, New York, blocked the Trump administration from rescinding on March 5 former President Barack Obama’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, program,

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) arrives for a news conference on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., February 6, 2018 which protected the Dreamers from opening bid for negotiations. It’s a best deportation. The decision was similar and final offer.” to a ruling last month by a federal That ran counter to statements judge in San Francisco.

Trump had made in recent days,

The U.S. Supreme Court is including early on Tuesday when he due to consider whether to take up said in a tweet: “Negotiations on DACA the administration’s appeal of the San have begun,” suggesting he sees room Francisco ruling and could announce to budge on some issues. as soon as Friday afternoon whether it Congress has been unable to will hear the case that is being closely pass a comprehensive immigration bill watched by 700,000 DACA participants. for more than a decade. In 2013, the

The U.S. Senate began a Senate voted to grant a pathway to major immigration debate, its first in U.S. citizenship for millions of illegal nearly five years, on Monday evening. immigrants, but the effort died in the Republicans held a tough line, at least House of Representatives. for now, in the search for a bipartisan Some Republican lawmakers deal. have expressed skepticism the kind

Republican Senator Tom of fundamental changes in U.S. Cotton, interviewed on Fox News, said immigration law sought by Trump can Trump’s immigration plan “is not an pass the Senate by week’s end, despite

McConnell’s warning of a tight new deadline when he told reporters: “We’ll need to wrap this up this week.”

The administration proposes cracking down on overall levels of legal immigration and the type of immigrants who would qualify for visas.

Trump wants to aim U.S. immigrant visas at high-skilled workers and allow in fewer relatives of legal immigrants.

Standing beside a large photograph of Chloe Kim, who at 17 became the youngest female snowboarder to win an Olympic gold medal, Democratic Senator Dick Durbin said: “Some say there are too many immigrants.” Kim is “the daughter of an immigrant who came here with nothing,” he added.

Her father, Kim Jong-jin, is a South Korean immigrant who gave up his job as an engineer to focus on his daughter’s sporting career.

Durbin told reporters he thought early Senate votes on immigration proposals from both sides could fail to win the 60 votes needed to clear procedural hurdles.

Senators will be forced to move “toward the center with a moderate approach,” Durbin said.

Democrats have talked of possibly coupling a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers with additional border security, including the construction of more border fencing and other high-tech tools to deter illegal immigrants.

UK judge refuses to stop legal action against WikiLeaks’ Assange

A British judge refused on Tuesday to halt legal proceedings against WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange for jumping bail and fleeing to the Ecuadorean embassy in London in June 2012.

The ruling leaves Assange, 46, in a legal and diplomatic impasse, with no way out of the embassy where he has lived for almost six years, unless he decides to face the prospect of arrest

by British police.

Assange said on Twitter he had three months to appeal the ruling, without specifying whether he would.

He said the judge’s ruling contained “significant factual errors” which he did not spell out.

Australian-born Assange entered the embassy to avoid being sent to Sweden to face allegations of sex crimes, which he denied. The Swedish case was dropped in May last year, but Britain still has a warrant out for his arrest over his breach of bail terms.

His lawyers had argued that British authorities should give up on arresting him, on public interest grounds, but Senior District Judge Emma Arbuthnot rejected all their points and criticized Assange.

“The impression I have ... is that he is a man who wants to impose his terms on the course of justice,” she said in her ruling at Westminster Magistrates Court.

“He appears to consider himself above the normal rules of law and wants justice only if it goes in his favor.”

Assange has said all along that the Swedish sex allegations were baseless and the real reason for his legal troubles was the fact that he had published U.S. diplomatic and military secrets on WikiLeaks. He fears that handing himself in would lead to extradition to the United States.

Assange’s supporters regard him as a champion of free speech who

Vatican denies ex-pope Benedict suffering from debilitating disease

The Vatican on Thursday denied a German magazine report that former Pope Benedict was suffering from a paralyzing disease of the nervous system.

A Vatican spokesman said a report in the German magazine Neue Post quoting Benedict’s older brother was false.

The magazine quoted Georg Ratzinger, 94, who is a priest, as saying: “The greatest fear is that the paralysis could at some point spread to his heart. Then it could be over

quickly”.

A Vatican statement said the “presumed news of a paralyzing degenerative disease are false. In two months, Benedict XVI will turn 91, and as he has said himself, feels the weight of his years, which is normal at that age.”

Benedict, a German who in 2013 became the first pope in six centuries to resign, said earlier this month he was in the last phase of life and on a “pilgrimage toward home”.

He is 90 years old.

has exposed government abuses of power at great personal cost. His critics seem him as a criminal who recklessly endangered lives in many countries by exposing secrets.

There is no public record or evidence demonstrating any U.S. criminal charges are pending against Assange, but he and his supporters believe U.S. prosecutors could have a sealed, therefore secret, indictment against him.

A U.S. government official told Reuters on Monday that federal prosecutors were still pursuing a criminal investigation against WikiLeaks using a grand jury based in Alexandria, Virginia, a suburb of Washington D.C..

But Judge Arbuthnot said that should the United States seek Assange’s extradition, he would be able to challenge that in the courts by raising issues such as whether he could get a fair trial and whether U.S. prison

conditions were acceptable.

“The courts would consider, with the assistance of Mr Assange’s lawyers and expert witnesses, whether he should be extradited,” she said.

The judge also said she had to take into account the impact on public confidence in the British criminal justice system should Assange be allowed to avoid a warrant for his arrest by staying out of reach of the police for years.

Assange’s lawyers had argued that his restricted living conditions in the Ecuadorean embassy, in a first-floor apartment in the affluent Knightsbridge district of London, amounted to severe and disproportionate punishment for breaching bail terms.

They said he had no sunlight and was suffering from depression, respiratory infections, dental problems and a frozen shoulder for which he could not get treatment.

Passenger jet lands in Hawaii after engine covering rips apart

Passengers aboard a United Airlines flight from San Francisco to Honolulu had a scary trip over the Pacific Ocean on Tuesday, after the casing around one of the engines ripped apart, officials said.

United flight 1175, with more than 370 people on board including crew members, landed without incident at Honolulu International Airport, United Airlines Inc spokesman Charles Hobart said in an email.

“Scariest flight of my life,” Maria Falaschi, a marketing consultant from San Francisco, wrote

on Twitter. She posted photos on the social media website of the aircraft’s engine with its covering, also known as the cowling, missing.

Hobart said he could not immediately say whether or not the engine on the Boeing 777 continued to function after the cowling came off.

The pilots of United flight 1175 declared an emergency due to a vibration in the right engine before the plane landed safely, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) spokesman Ian Gregor said in an email. The FAA will investigate the incident.

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BUSINESS &

TECHNOLOGY

Banks in Britain and U.S. ban Bitcoin buying with credit cards

Banks in Britain and the United States have banned the use of credit cards to buy Bitcoin and other “cryptocurrencies”, fearing a plunge in their value will leave customers unable to repay their debts.

Lloyds Banking Group Plc (LLOY.L), which issues just over a quarter of all credit cards in Britain, and Virgin Money (VM.L) said they would ban credit card customers from buying cryptocurrencies, following the lead of U.S. banking giants JP Morgan Chase & Co (JPM.N) and Citigroup (C.N).

The move is aimed at protecting customers from running up huge debts from buying virtual currencies on credit, if their values were to plummet, a Lloyds spokeswoman said.

Concerns have arisen among credit card providers because their customers have increasingly been using credit cards to fund accounts on online exchanges, which are then used to purchase the digital currencies.

However, other banks said on Monday they will continue to allow credit card customers to buy cryptocurrencies.

“We constantly review

Representation of the Bitcoin virtual currency standing on the PC motherboard is seen in this illustration picture, February 3, 2018 our protections for customers as a responsible bank and lender, and are keeping this matter under close review,” a spokeswoman for Barclays said.

Barclays is Britain’s leading credit card issuer with a market share of around 27 percent through its Barclaycard brand.

“At present UK customers can use both their Barclays debit card and Barclaycard credit card to purchase cryptocurrency legitimately,” the Barclays spokeswoman said.

Spain’s second-biggest bank BBVA (BBVA.MC) also said it has no restrictions in place on such purchases.

Last week Mastercard Inc (MA.N), the world’s second biggest

payments network, said customers buying cryptocurrencies with credit cards fueled a 1 percentage point increase in overseas transaction volumes in the fourth quarter.

At that time Bitcoin was staging a spectacular rise in value, reaching a peak of $19,187 on Dec. 16 on the Luxembourg-based Bitstamp exchange.

But the biggest and bestknown cryptocurrency has since fallen dramatically and on Monday was down by 11 percent to $7255 at 1719 GMT on Bitstamp, extending losses from Friday amid worries of a global regulatory clampdown.

The decision on whether

to allow credit card users to buy cryptocurrencies is a credit risk decision made by the card-issuing banks, a spokesman for Mastercard said.

A spokeswoman for Chase bank said it is not currently processing credit card purchases of cryptocurrencies because of the volatility and risk involved, while a Citi spokeswoman confirmed a similar ban, but did not give a reason.

The bans extends only to credit card purchases, with debit card users still able to buy cryptocurrencies.

“Across Lloyds Bank, Bank of Scotland, Halifax and MBNA, we do not accept credit card transactions involving the purchase of cryptocurrencies,” the Lloyds spokeswoman said in an email.

Lloyds did not say how it planned to enforce the ban, although the Telegraph newspaper reported on Sunday that its credit card customers will be blocked from buying Bitcoin online through a “blacklist” that will flag sellers.

A spokeswoman from the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS.L) declined to comment on the bank’s policy.

Airbnb’s ‘Experiences’ business on track for 1 million bookings, profitability

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Airbnb Inc’s year-old tours through Airbnb since the company and activities business is booking launched a decade ago. tens of thousands of travelers every Experiences, one of four month and is likely to be profitable separate units within Airbnb, is on late next year, the company said on track to be profitable by the end of Tuesday, highlighting success in 2019, the company said. its efforts to grow beyond renting Experiences is an eclectic rooms and homes. assortment of more than 5,000

More than a year ago, excursions across at least 58 Airbnb announced a broad effort cities, ranging from wine tasting to become a full-fledged travel in California to glass-blowing in company, adding to its home- Chicago, making a kimono in Tokyo renting business an assortment of or guided meditation in Paris. new services such as excursions to Many capitalize on the locale, such see local attractions and restaurant as a tour to discover the hidden reservations. stairways in San Francisco.

The expansion is part Airbnb said an additional of Airbnb’s efforts to diversify 25,000 travel experiences will be its revenue sources amid global available by the end of this year. regulatory pressures. In some cities, The company charges the it has been forced to reel in its core people who host Experiences a 20 business, in which people rent out percent fee. By comparison, Airbnb spare rooms or entire apartments charges home renting hosts a fee of or houses to travelers. Airbnb is about 3 percent and guests up to 15 betting that revenue from its new percent of the reservation. travel services will eventually Airbnb, which is valued at eclipse its proceeds from home $31 billion, has previously said the rentals. company as a whole is profitable.

The company now expects A spokesman on Tuesday declined its “Experiences” service, which to comment on the profitability of travelers can use to book guided each of its other three business tours or activities hosted by a local units - the home-renting service, a resident, will by the second quarter luxury vacation rental business and be on track to have 1 million a separate China operation. guest bookings in a year. That Chief Executive Brian number assumes no growth in the Chesky this month refuted widely business, Airbnb said, making it a held expectations of an Airbnb conservative estimate. initial-public offering this year,

There have been more than saying it is “not going public in 260 million home- and room-rentals 2018.”

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

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BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY WORLD NEWS

Snapchat overhaul convinces investors it can fight Instagram Snapchat owner Snap Inc on Tuesday reported surging growth in users and revenue in its latest quarter, reviving hopes that it can survive competition with Facebook Inc’s Instagram and sending its shares up more than 20 percent.

Investor enthusiasm for the instant messaging application company faded after its initial public offering last year.

But the Venice, California-based firm said that customers were now staying longer on the Android version of its app, after software bugs were fixed, and advertisers were taking to an auction-based advertising system that made it cheaper and easier to buy ads.

Snapchat’s daily active users rose to 187 million in the quarter that ended Dec. 31 from 178 million in the third quarter, beating analysts’ average expectation of 184.2 million users, according to financial data and analytics firm FactSet. Daily active users rose 18 percent from a year earlier, reversing a trend of slowing growth. The figure is closely watched by investors who hope user growth can be translated into advertising revenue.

Revenue rose 72 percent to $285.7 million, beating analysts’ expectations

of $253.2 million as companies advertised more in the key holiday quarter.

Instagram, with more than twice the daily users of Snapchat and backed by Facebook’s large bank account, has threatened to stamp out its rival by copying features such as photo filters and disappearing slide shows.

Confidence that the two could coexist in the social media sector was shaken when Snapchat’s user growth stalled last year. Analysts, though, said that Snapchat appeared willing to look inward and try to fix problems rather than be distracted by Instagram.

“They are going to continue to be competitors, and Snap is doing a creditable job of competing for revenue,” analyst Michael Pachter of Wedbush Securities said.

Snapchat is courting advertisers in an internet ad market dominated by Facebook and Alphabet Inc’s Google, which together control half the market share, according to research firm eMarketer.

While Snapchat ads once were primarily bought by large brands with household names, revenue from smaller businesses more than doubled

Apple sees ‘strong demand’ for replacement iPhone batteries

Apple Inc (AAPL.O) has seen “strong demand” for replacement iPhone batteries and may offer rebates for consumers who paid full price for new batteries, the company said in a Feb. 2 letter to U.S. lawmakers made public on Tuesday.

Apple confirmed in December that software to deal with aging batteries in iPhone 6, iPhone 6s and iPhone SE models could slow down performance. The company apologized and lowered the price of battery replacements for affected models from $79 to $29.

In the letter released Customers hold the iPhone 6s during Tuesday, amid nagging allegations the official launch at the Apple store in that it slowed down phones with older central Sydney, Australia, September 25, batteries as a way to push people into 2015 buying new phones, the company said Apple did not immediately it was considering issuing rebates to comment on Thune’s statement. consumers who paid full price for The company also sent a letter in replacement batteries. response to Representative Greg

The letter, released by the Walden, a Republican who chairs the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee, Committee on Energy and Commerce also said Apple provided a phone- in the U.S. House of Representatives. slowing software update in January Apple told the committee that it would 2017 but did not disclose it until a consider extending its reduced-cost month later. battery replacement program beyond

In the letter, Apple said it 2018 if it can’t find a way to prevent had known about battery problems sudden shutdowns in older iPhones caused by a manufacturing defect as without throttling processor speeds. early as fall 2016.

Last week, the U.S.

Senator John Thune, a Department of Justice and the Republican who chairs the committee, Securities and Exchange Commission said in a statement that “consumers said they were investigating whether rely on clear and transparent Apple violated securities laws disclosures from manufacturers to concerning its disclosures that it understand why their device may slowed older iPhones with flagging experience performance changes.” batteries, Bloomberg reported.

Thune said that in In a statement last week, discussions with the committee Apple said it had “received questions “Apple has acknowledged that from some government agencies” and its initial disclosures came up was duly responding to them. The short. Apple has also promised company had “never, and would the committee some follow-up never, do anything to intentionally information, including an answer shorten the life of any Apple product, about additional steps it may take to or degrade the user experience address customers who purchased a to drive customer upgrades,” the new battery at full price.” statement said.

from the third quarter to the fourth, In addition to fixing bugs, the Chief Strategy Officer Imran Khan company is redesigning Snapchat to said on a conference call. make it easier to use. Chief Executive

“We know that in order to Evan Spiegel said the new version truly scale our business, advertising had rolled out to 40 million users and on Snapchat has to be really easy,” would launch worldwide in the first Khan said. quarter.

Ad prices have fallen as Acknowledging a perception Snapchat lets advertisers use self- that Snapchat is popular mainly serve software to buy, but the number among millennials, Spiegel said: “We of ad impressions was up more than believe that the redesign has also made 575 percent from a year earlier in the our application simpler and easier to fourth quarter, Chief Financial Officer use, especially for older users.”

Drew Vollero said.

Snap posted a net loss of

Vollero said more than 90 $350 million, or 28 cents per share, percent of ads were sold on Snapchat’s compared to a loss of $170 million, or auction, which is capable of handling 20 cents per share, a year earlier. larger volume than a human sales Excluding items, Snap staff, and the company tripled the reported a loss of 13 cents. Analysts on number of advertisers buying there. average expected a loss of 16 cents per Shares traded at $17.09 after the bell, share, according to Thomson Reuters up 22 percent, and had traded even I/B/E/S. higher.

Revenue per user rose 46

Amid concerns Snapchat percent from a year earlier to $1.53, would not be able to keep growing while cost of revenue per user rose 5 rapidly in the face of Instagram’s percent to $1.02. competition, Snap’s stock price had Still, the company expects its fallen by half from its $29.44 high after year-over-year revenue growth rate its initial public offering last year and to moderate in the current quarter not traded above the IPO price of $17 compared with the fourth quarter, since July 10. Snap had not reported Vollero said. upbeat results since going public.

UK blames Russia for cyber attack, Moscow decries Western campaign

Britain blamed Russia on pounds.

Thursday for a cyber-attack last year, “The Kremlin has positioned publicly pointing the finger at Moscow Russia in direct opposition to the for spreading a virus which swept West: it doesn’t have to be that way,” across Europe and beyond, hitting he said. “We call upon Russia to companies and other users after be the responsible member of the initially targeting Ukraine. international community it claims

Russia denied the accusation, to be rather then secretly trying to saying it was part of “Russophobic” undermine it.” campaign that it said was being Denmark’s defense minister waged by some Western countries.

Claus Hjort Frederiksen was quoted

Two sources familiar with as saying he also believed the cyberthe matter said later on Thursday attack originated in Russia. ”The that London’s announcement had Russians have lifted this to a higher been coordinated with the United level where it’s just about causing States and other countries, some damage like in a military attack,” of which were expected to follow up Frederiksen told Ritzau news agency. with their own statements about who Moscow has previously denied being was responsible for NotPetya in the behind the NotPetya attack. On coming days.

Thursday Kremlin spokesman Dmitry

The so-called NotPetya Peskov said Russia “categorically attack in June started in Ukraine denies the allegations”. where it crippled government and “We consider (them)... business computers before spreading groundless. This is nothing more around Europe and the world, halting than a continuation of a Russophobic operations at ports, factories and campaign that is without proof,” offices.

Peskov told a conference call with

Britain’s foreign ministry said reporters. in a statement the attack originated The Washington Post from the Russian military. newspaper reported in January that

“The decision to publicly the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency attribute this incident underlines the attributed the NotPetya attack to fact that the UK and its allies will not Russian military hackers. tolerate malicious cyber activity,” the British defense minister ministry said in a statement.

Gavin Williamson said on Thursday

“The attack masqueraded as the attack was part of a new era of a criminal enterprise but its purpose warfare and Britain had to be ready was principally to disrupt,” it said. to respond. “We must be primed

“Primary targets were and ready to tackle these stark and Ukrainian financial, energy and intensifying threats,” he said in a government sectors. Its indiscriminate statement. design caused it to spread further, Britain has recently become affecting other European and Russian more vocal about the threat posed by business.”

Russia at a time when some members of the ruling Conservative Party have “RUSSOPHOBIC CAMPAIGN” expressed concern about the impact of cuts to defense spending.

Tariq Ahmad, a junior In November, Prime Minister minister at the foreign ministry, said Theresa May accused Russia of the attack cost European firms and meddling in elections and planting organizations hundreds of millions of fake stories in the media.

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

IMMEDIATE OPENING EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT MANAGER* Job Summary: Functions as the Strategic Business Leader of the resorts’ Front Office, Spa, Youth Program and Retail operations and serves as General Manager as needed.

Position oversees the development and implementation of departmental strategies and ensures implementation of the brand service strategy and brand initiatives throughout the operation. The position operation meet the brand’s target customer needs, ensures employee satisfaction, focuses on growing revenues and maximizes the financial performance of each department.

Requirements: •8-10 years of management experience in internationally branded luxury hotels/ resort including at least 2 years at Executive Committee Level •In depth knowledge of front office, spa, youth program, and retail •Knowledge of all hotel operations to act as leader of any department when necessary •Knowledge of governmental regulations and safety standards (OSHA, EPA, ADA, CFC, NFPA) •Strong organization skills •Ability to effectively manage labor productivity •Financial management skills e.g., ability to analyze P&L statements, develop operating budgets, forecasting and capital expenditure planning •Ability to use standard software applications and hotel systems – Opera (Fidelio), Micros.

•Strategic planning skills •Ability to evaluate business trends, determine applicability to customer profile and modify business strategies accordingly •Ability to take constructive action without relying on directions from others •Ability to network and build relationships to grow the business •Strong problem-solving skills; encourages new innovative solutions when appropriate •Strong communication skills (verbal, listening, writing) •Must be willing and available to work all shifts and days Salary $60,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience UPHOLSTERER/PAINTER* The Upholsterer is responsible for repairing wood and rebuilding upholstered furniture, using hand tools with a wide knowledge of fabrics and upholstery methods.

The key responsibilities are: •Operate sewing machine to seam cushions and join various sections of covering materials •Repair seats, sofas, curtains, carpet and mattresses •Gather and assemble specified upholstery materials and accessories for upholstered furniture •Ensure that the upholstery workshop is tidy and clean •Keep inventory record of the stored upholstery items •Maintain machines and equipments in good condition at all times •Maintain upholstery in all outlets, lobby, corridor and guestrooms •Organize and take inventory of all fabric materials and sewing accessories •Ensure that the fabric materials that used in making the upholstery is correct •Assume duties and task assigned by Superiors •Also, responsible for resorting and painting furniture pieces; and •Must have knowledge of paint products and blending techniques.

Skills: Education, Qualifications & Experiences The Candidate should ideally have a technical education in upholstery with at least 5 years previous experiences in a similar upholstering role. Experience as an upholsterer in housekeeping or in a hotel and a good command of English is considered an advantage.

Knowledge & Competencies The ideal candidate will be a friendly, caring, dedicated individual with good cross cultural sensitivity and the capability to identify priorities with a willingness to put in an extra effort and time when required. You will work well under pressure in a fast paced environment and enjoy working with a multi-cultural team and guests alike, while possessing following additional competencies: Understanding the Job Taking Responsibility Recognizing Differences Customer Focus Adaptability Teamwork Starting salary $9.00 per hour SPECIAL PROJECTS COORDINATOR* Requirements: •Must have advance knowledge of PC computer software programs to include, Microsoft Windows and Office (Photo Escape, PowerPoint, Publisher, Excel, Movie maker, Photo Paint, Outlook and Word).

•Ability to possess effective listening abilities, and demonstrate proven ability to multi-task and handle assignments in a fast passed working environment.

•Ability to possess excellent organizational, analytical and project management skills, demonstrate strong problem solving judgment skills and attention to

detail while meeting targeted deadlines.

•Have interpersonal skills to deal effectively with all business contacts.

•Work varied shifts, including weekends and holidays and after hours based on scheduled special events.

•Able to effectively communicate in English, in both written and oral forms.

•Service oriented, with professional appearance and demeanor •Maintain professionalism in the handling of all sensitive and confidential information.

•Excellent customer service skills.

•Bachelor’s Degree Administration and/or related fields.

•Previous experience working in a similar resort setting.

Duties: •Execute all Special Events with the highest regard to guest service.

•Assist other departments with events and special projects as needed.

•Coordinates all work at the direction of the Vice President of Sales & Marketing to assist with implementing key special projects that move the institution forward.

•Acts as production coordinator on the photoshoot for resort collateral which is used in sales and marketing.

•Responsible for reviewing and finalizing island advertisement such as magazine and yellow pages.

•Responsible for ordering from the U.S vendor for Sales and Marketing events and other related departments.

•Acts as main coordinator and design itinerary and travel for press familiarization trip, travel agents familiarization trip such a F&B preparation, give-away, restaurant reservation, spa treatment, social activities and welcome amenities •Design/creates promotional flyer used as collateral for retail shop and spa sales, F&B special event promos and menu’s such as Glam, gourmet safari, TACC and etc.

•Creates a power point presentation for the sales and marketing and other projects •Supervise employees in a variety of work assignments for special event preparation •Prepare all the folders for the strata executives meetings and annual management meeting, ensuring all the meeting preparation is in place such as F&B preparation and set up.

•Executes special project such as resort signage project, uniform issuance, selling of old furniture from resort refurbishment, •Responsible for weekly timefax cover, information card and newsletter.

•Responsible for office and special project requisition •Responsible for controlling, logging, issuing and printing gift certificate for the resort •Responsible for all administrative work needed by the Vice President of sales and marketing such as monthly expense report, filing, organizing and scheduling.

•Assists in planning and coordinating the activities to the department pertaining to special project; monitors actual progress against goals and objectives; coordinates assigned departmental activities.

•Responsible for the annual preparation of TCHTA Star award booklets and creating the power point presentations.

Salary $22,000.00 - $25,000.00 not including service charge.Commensurate with qualification and experience.

EXECUTIVE HOUSEKEEPER* Requirements: •Must have minimum 10-12 years experience as an executive housekeeper in branded luxury hotel/resort •Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience • Must have knowledge of Opera (Fidelio) hotel operating system • Must have knowledge of laundry operations • Must have experience managing large Department(50 or more employees) • Ability to train coach and counsel staff • Ability to determine appropriate staffing levels based on anticipated business, and create staffing schedules which optimize the balance between desired profitability, and guest demands • Thorough understanding of the elements and components of luxury services, set-ups and supplies • Must have financial knowledge and ability to Analyze P & L statements, develop operating budgets, forecasting and capital expenditure planning • Must have advanced knowledge of standard software applications • Good communication and relationship building skills to interact effectively with managers and unit owners.

•Must be able and willing to work all shifts and days Duties Include: • Develops and implements business strategies for the housekeeping department • Develops annual operating and capital expenditures budget for department • Directing the operation of the housekeeping department including guest rooms and public space areas and overseeing management staff •Inspecting back-of-the house areas continually and adjusts operations accordingly • Oversees inventory, purchasing, disbursement, cost control for all linens, cleaning supplies and guest room supplies • Adheres to brand marketing, sales and quality standards • Coordinates room availability with the Front Office Manager and room maintenance with Director of Engineering Starting salary $40,000-$60,000 per annum not including service charge.

DOMESTIC WORKER* Duties Include:

*POSITIONS MARKED WITH (*) ARE POSITIONS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. Interested applicants should apply to The Palms, Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday, and bring along an updated resume, or by emailing your resume to shaquarse.been@thepalmstc.com, no later than end of day Friday, March 2nd, 2018.

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

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IMMEDIATE OPENING •General laborer duties as assigned by the supervisor or manager.

•Willingness to work varying schedules, split shifts, nights, weekends and holidays.

Salary $6.25 an hour not including service charge.

MAINTENANCE MANAGER* Duties and Responsibilities: · Establish goals, measurements and results for the department along with the General Manager. · Involvement in the preparation of the Maintenance Operating and Capital budgets. · General operational and preventative maintenance of systems including: Boilers and heating systems; make up air and HVAC systems; Pool facilities; and General plumbing issues. · Maintain hotel guest rooms and public areas by performing routine maintenance jobs and repairs. · Troubleshoot and perform minor repairs on heating, cooling and ventilation systems. · Troubleshoot and perform minor repairs on plumbing systems, electrical systems and appliances. · Maintain the hot tub by ensuring a safe chemical balance through frequent testing. · Organize, implement and track all maintenance projects for guestrooms and public areas. · Monitor and revise as needed, departmental health & safety tools including training programs, policies and practices. · Ensure a safe work environment is maintained at all times and that all colleagues are committed to working safely. · Partner with Front Office Manager to ensure safe guest evacuation during emergencies (i.e. Fire Alarm). · Motivate, train and lead maintenance personnel by personal example with a philosophy of work conduct, enthusiasm and personal development that leads to maximum performance and job satisfaction. · Effective scheduling, vacation planning and department productivity to budget. · Effective and timely interaction with all Hotel & Restaurant departments and positively impact guest experience by effectively and efficiently resolving maintenance concerns. · Effective and timely interaction with HR regarding payroll (i.e. set up new hires, etc). · Occasional maintenance to staff residence as required. · A positive contributor to the leadership team of the hotel.

Knowledge, skills and abilities: · Prior Maintenance Management and/or supervisory experience within a operation equal in size and facilities. · Strong communication skills, both written and verbal. Proven ability to motivate and lead employees in a busy, high quality environment. · Background in electrical and or plumbing are essential. · Good English communication skills (both written & oral). · Ability to respond quickly in a dynamic and changing environment. Ability to handle multiple requests in a fast-paced environment. · Good training, coaching and mentoring skills are essential. · Proven experience with budgets and payroll process is essential. · Completion of high school and technical training required. · Majority of work shift requires standing or walking 90% of the work day · Many tasks require sitting, bending, stooping, kneeling, and/or positioning to accomplish tasks · Able to lift and carry up to 50+ lbs. is common and up to 150 lbs with assistance · Reaching is required at all levels throughout the work period · Climbing of stairs is required and may require up to 50% of the time · Previous hotel maintenance experience preferred · Able to work efficiently under time constraints · Able to work independently and with others Starting salary $45,000- $55,000 per annum not including service charge.

INTERNATIONAL PROCUREMENT MANAGER* Requirements: • 5+ years experience in international purchasing in a luxury hospitality environment; while negotiating domestic and international contracts, increasing total quality of the goods, and fully organizing proper container shipments.

• Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience.

• Must be Computer literate, Microsoft Office, MXP, etc.

• Must have advanced knowledge of Food & Beverage quality standards, health compliances and specifications.

• Must have product knowledge of food, beverage and hotel consumable/durable items.

• Knowledge of Marine Exchange Procurement is an advantage.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills in English, with additional other language is an advantage.

• Flexible, ability to work independently and under pressure.

• Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts.

Duties include: • Forecast procurement needs based on historical data and analysis.

• Maintain procurement management database.

• Upgrade regularly Marine Exchange Procurement software.

• Liaise with brokers and support customs clearances.

• Liaise with Accounts Payable Department to ensure accurate and timely payment of invoices • Monitor inventory control and spending in order to make recommendations and identify areas for possible savings.

• Conduct physical inventories of the storerooms and prepare requisitions for all departments to bring items up to par stock levels.

• Supervising and training of Purchasing and Warehouse employees.

Starting salary $40,000 not including service charge.

STEWARDING MANAGER* Requirements: • Prior experience managing the stewarding department of a 5 star Luxury Resort.

• Must have an excellent working knowledge of the kitchens, equipment, food productions, sanitation, hygiene and safety.

• Must be able to organize and delegate large banquet functions.

• Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts.

Duties Include: • Ensures the maintenance of a clean, sanitary kitchen by supervising steward personnel • Issuing cleaning supplies to stewards, checking usage and making adjustments • Ensuring that kitchen floors and walk-ins are clean • Monitoring cafeteria and provide assistance to kitchen personnel during set-up and clean-up • Working with the Food & Beverage Director banquet orders • Taking inventory of and ensure proper amounts china, dishes etc. are available • Ensuring the training of and proper use daily of all safety, hygiene and sanitation Starting salary $35,000 per annum not including service charge.

STEWARDING TRAINEE MANAGER Requirements: • Looking for a bright, ambitious and focused person who wants to grow in the field of stewarding.

• Must have a passion or interest in working in the kitchens, equipment, food productions, sanitation, hygiene and safety.

• Must be willing to work late evenings beyond midnight as major banqueting events and functions require. Must be willing and able to assist in organizing and delegating large banquet functions.

• Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts including Saturdays and Sundays.

Duties Include: • Ensures the maintenance of clean, sanitized kitchen by supervising steward personnel • Issuing cleaning supplies to stewards, checking usage and making adjustments • Ensuring that kitchen floors and walk-ins are clean • Monitoring cafeteria and provide assistance to kitchen personnel during set-up and clean-up Working with the Food & Beverage Director banquet orders • Conducting regular inventory of and ensuring proper amounts china, dishes etc. are available • Assisting in ensuring the training of and proper use daily of all safety, hygiene and sanitation HVACT TECHNICIAN* The chosen candidate must be a licensed/certified refrigeration technician with knowledge of different types of refrigerant including R22, 134A and 404A. Must have experience maintaining and repairing low temperature refrigeration, walk-in freezers and coolers, ice machines and direct expansion air conditioning systems.

Duties Include: • Perform scheduled preventative maintenance and corrective repair on all refrigeration equipment.

• Upgrading equipment as required.

• Maintaining inventory of parts needed for designated equipment to avoid down time.

Starting salary $7.00- $9.00 per hour plus service charge.

POOL AND BEACH ATTENDANT* Requirements: • 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 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 Duties Include: • Creating a luxury guest experience through delivery of high level service for all pool and beach services Starting salary $6.25 per hour not including service charge.

KITCHEN/ LAUNDRY MECHANIC * Requirements: • Minimum 3 years experience of experience.

• Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience.

• Knowledge and experience in repair and maintenance including preventative maintenance of property systems and equipment.

• To be an independent kitchen laundry mechanic, able to analyze problems, to read technical data sheets and diagrams for mechanical and electrical equipment and to formulate plans to get work done quickly, including procurement of materials, parts, etc., and necessary scheduling arrangements with a high degree of quality.

• Ability to speak effectively with customers and associates read and write and interpret documents and technical wiring diagram information sheets as well as safety rules (lockout tagout), safety awareness information (MSDS) operating and maintenance and instructions manuals.

Duties include: • Maintain proper preventative maintenance to laundry equipment and boilers.

• Maintain proper amount of chemical injection on boiler feed tank and proper conductivity at boilers.

• Preventative maintenance to steam traps and steam lines Starting salary $7.00 per hour not including service charge.

*POSITIONS MARKED WITH (*) ARE POSITIONS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. Interested applicants should apply to The Palms, Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday, and bring along an updated resume, or by emailing your resume to shaquarse.been@thepalmstc.com, no later than end of day Friday, March 2nd, 2018.

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

OASIS DIVERS is seeking applications from suitably qualified candidates for the following positions. The successful applicants must:

CERTIFIED DIVERS / LIFEGUARDS/DIVE MASTER -Hold a valid diving certification of Open Water Diver or higher -Be at least 25 years old -Have a clean criminal record -Have a valid passport -Hold a valid certification in CPR and First Aid -Have at least 3 years’ experience in the tourism and hospitality industry.

Other experience in the tourism industry would be an asset -Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including on weekends and Public Holidays, as necessary to meet the challenging needs of the cruise ship schedule and/or reasonable needs of the business TOUR DISPATCHER -Have at least 3 years’ experience dispatching tours -Possess the ability to remain calm in a high stress environment -Be well spoken with English as primary language -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 -Have a valid passport -Be at least 25 years old -Have a clean criminal record TOUR GUIDES -Be at least 25 years old -Have a clean criminal record -Have a valid passport -Hold a valid certification in CPR and First Aid -Have at least 3 years’ experience in the tourism and hospitality industry.

Other experience in the tourism industry would be an asset -Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including on weekends and Public Holidays, as necessary to meet the challenging needs of the cruise ship schedule and/or reasonable needs of the business CHEF/ RESTAURANT CAPTAIN -Have at least 5 years’ experience in a supervisory position as a chef/cook within a quick pace multiple kitchen operation.

-Experience with Microsoft POS system required -Possess the ability to remain calm in a high stress environment -At least 25 years of age.

-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 TOUR DEVELOPMENT TRAINER -Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in Tour Development /Safety Standards in a service oriented business.

-Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in the management, and training of staff and development of safety standards operating procedures for staff.

-Valid Driver’s License -Highly Professional and Ethical standards of Leadership with a passion for nature and the environment.

-Positive and disciplined attitude toward work in a fast pace, multi-tasking customer service oriented business, with ability to handle complaints and work under pressure.

-Excellent verbal and written communication, with Networking skills -Excellent analytical, inter-personal and customer service skills.

-Ability to recruit and appraise staff performance as well as have a strong track record of fostering team work and motivating staff with multi-cultural differences.

-Must be willing and able to work outdoors, flexible hours, including on weekends and public holidays, as necessary to meet the challenging needs of cruise ship schedule and/or reasonable needs of the business SAFETY DIVER -Strong swimmer, life guard training an asset -Be at least 25 years old -Have a clean criminal record -Have a valid passport -Hold a valid certification in CPR and First Aid -Have at least 3 years’ experience in the tourism and hospitality industry.

Other experience in the tourism industry would be an asset -Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including on weekends and Public Holidays, as necessary to meet the challenging needs of the cruise ship schedule and/or reasonable needs of the business BOAT PAINTER -Have a valid passport -Have at least 5 years’ experience in boat repair, including working with fiberglass and other dangerous chemicals -Positive and disciplined attitude toward work -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 Cee’s Plaza, Suite No. 1 Church Folly PO Box 86 Grand Turk Turks & Caicos Islands

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 -Have a valid passport -Be at least 25 years old -Have a clean criminal record -Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including on weekends and Public Holidays, as necessary to meet the challenging needs of the cruise ship schedule and/or reasonable needs of the business BOAT CAPTAIN -Have a proven and unblemished track record of employment -Have a valid passport -Have at least 5 years’ experience as a boat captain working in the tourism industry.

-Possess a valid grade 2 boat masters license.

-Have CPR and first Aid Certification -Basic knowledge of boat engine maintenance and repair -Have a clean criminal record -Positive and disciplined attitude toward work -Excellent verbal and written communication skills -Be 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 SALES CLERK/ASSISTANT -Minimum of 3 years general sales and merchandising experience (Sales Assistant) -Proven and unblemished track record of employment -Positive and disciplined attitude toward work in a customer service oriented business (Sales Clerk) -Excellent communication, inter-personal and customer service skills -Trustworthy and reliable disposition 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 SERVER/ BARTENDER/LABOURER/KITCHEN ASSISTANT Have a minimum of 3 years’ experience in a similar position -Ability to stand for long periods -Excellent customer service and friendly disposition -Able to lift moderate weights -Speaks good English.

WATERSPORTS OPRTATIONS COORDINATOR -High school diploma/ Bachelors -Dive Instructor or higher professional dive rating from an internationally recognized organization -Five years’ experience in a related position -Hold a valid certification in CPR and First Aid -Extensive knowledge of all standards and procedures with regards to international dive regulations -Ability to repair scuba equipment.

-Basic knowledge of boat engine maintenance/repair -Basic knowledge of compressor maintenance and repair -Detailed knowledge of dive shop and watersports operation, organization and recording/ logging protocol.

-Knowledge of general operation process.

-Be at least 25 years old ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OFFICER -Master’s Degree in Environmental Studies or Biology -Two years’ International experience in a similar position -Teaching / trainer experience -Open water PADI certification or higher -Basic accounting background -Computer literate -Excellent written and verbal communication skills -Second language is an asset -Excellent organizational skills -Possess a valid driver’s license

Preference will be given to documented Turks and Caicos Islanders Written applications only and accompanying CVs/resumes must be addressed to the Manager at the following address:

OASIS DIVING, LTD. c/o EPIC Corporate & Consultancy Services Ltd. Phone: 649-946-1128 Fax: 649-946-1128 Email: oasisdiv@tciway.tc

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

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•Manage systems integration projects in relation to accounting system with operational systems •Extensive experience of preparation of Financial Statements, including Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet and Cash flow •Finance team development and training on accounting system and processes •Experience in financial analysis work in a retail/wholesale environment •Business process re-engineering experience in implementation of systems or process projects •Strong written and verbal communication skills •Attention to detail and flexibility to manage multiple tasks •Excellent communication skills are required Pay will commensurate with quantification and experience

SUPERMARKET FLOOR MANAGER This position is responsible for overall management of supermarket retail / floor operations. Job responsibilities and requirements include: Graceway IGA Supermarket invites applications from suitable qualified individuals to fill the listed positions currently held by work permit holders:

IT ANALYST Requirements/Qualifications •Must have at least a bachelors or higher degree in Computer or Information Systems •A minimum four years on the job experience as an information technology programmer/analyst (SQL language preferable) is required •Experience in data processing, computer information systems, data communications, networking, systems analysis, and computer programming is a must.

•Ability to conduct training and informational sessions.

Duties and Responsibilities include: •Supporting all hardware related issues and reviewing all new hardware capabilities as required, such as cash registers, scales, and database and POS systems.

•Assist in resolving any software issues, review and upgrade of all new software packages.

•Maintaining good documentation relating to all IT related work plans and schedules such as backups and flowcharts.

•Overseeing the systems implementation and taking ownership of the systems work stream within the Process re-engineering project including any new systems for Graceway IGA Supermarket.

•Assisting with updating and improving the current Graceway IGA website.

•Providing reports generated from systems as requested by senior management – operational, financial or IT based.

Pay will commensurate with experience and qualifications.

RETAIL STORE MANAGER This position is responsible for the management of the supermarket’s retail operations. Main duties and requirements include: •Over 8+ years experience in Supermarket Retail with a minimum of five years in a managerial position to include management of individual departments.

•Strong character reference from known individuals in the supermarket industry •Excellent people skills, including the ability to teach and train staff.

•Must have computer knowledge in areas such as Microsoft Excel and Inventory management programs.

•Proficient in the understanding of retail and wholesale accounting and good business practices related to documentation and record keeping.

•Skilled in ordering methods and practices for inventory control.

•Ability to utilize computer systems/information for improved operational results.

•Strong current product knowledge of the retail industry and knowledge of Supermarket facility management.

•Will be required to work nights, long hours, weekends, and holidays.

Pay will commensurate with experience and qualifications.

FINANCE ANALYST

•Bachelor’s degree in Food Services Management with a minimum of (2)years Retail Supermarket experience in Culinary Arts with extensive knowledge in meat selection and procurement •Monitor overall management of the Food Service Department to ensure that food items are prepared and presented in an acceptable manner •Monitor overall store quality, cleanliness, stock levels, merchandising, sales growth, profitability (e.g., by analyzing operating reports, payroll sales reports, shrink reports, etc.,) and taking appropriate action to improve performance •Wide-ranging knowledge in areas such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Inventory management programs •Must be proficient retail and wholesale accounting and good business practices related to documentation and record keeping •Manage department inventories by tracking weekly sales reports, orders product and supplies so as to meet customer requirements along with the company’s gross profit goals •Skilled in ordering methods and practices for inventory control •Ability to utilize computer systems/ information for improved operational results •Strong current product knowledge of the retail industry and knowledge of Supermarket facility management •Will be required to work nights, long hours, weekends, and holidays •Experience in ISS / Droste Operating Systems is an added plus Pay will commensurate with quantification and experience

FLOOR CARE SPECIALIST Requirements / Qualifications: •Experience in floor care and maintenance.

•Experience in waxing, wax removal, stripping, buffing and vacuuming large surface areas.

•Experience in operating and maintaining heavy duty floor care machines.

•Experience in using proper safeguards such as warning signs and safety cones to alert customers and employees to potential hazards such as wet or slippery floor surfaces; •Be knowledgeable cleaning programs and adhere to manufacturer’s label instructions for the safe and proper use of all chemical products Duties and Responsibilities include: •Monitor inventory of cleaning supplies and submit purchase orders or requests to store management; •Oversee cleaning and maintenance of the supermarket.

•Responsible for the total store floor care on a daily basis.

Salary Range: 6.50 - $7.00 per Hour

RETAIL FLOOR POSITIONS Job Requirements All applicants must be able to read, speak and understand the English Language and will be expected to sit and pass an in-house Math and English Test.

•DELI / BAKERY ASSISTANT •BAKER •Warehouse Clerk / Stocker

(1) (1) (1)

Job requirement and responsibilities: •CMA/ACA/CPA qualified with a minimum of 5 years post qualification experience in a financial analysis position •Operational and financial analysis of key business issues •Management and development of accounting system and processes, including chart of accounts, expansion of capability, and relationship management with external parties

Salary Range: $7.00 - $7.50 / Per Hour Deadline for submission of applicants is February 24th 2018 Submit to: Graceway IGA Supermarket main office complex or email: hr@gracewayiga.com

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WORLD

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

SPORTS Disgraced former USA Gymnastics doctor sent to Arizona federal prison

Larry Nassar, a former team USA Gymnastics doctor, who pleaded guilty in November 2017 to sexual assault charges, returns from a break to listen to victim testimony in the courtroom during his sentencing hearing in Lansing, Michigan, U.S., January 23, 2018.

Former USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar has been transferred to a high security federal prison in Tucson, Arizona, after being convicted of molesting scores of young women who went to him for treatment, authorities said on Saturday.

The Federal Bureau of Prisons said the 54-year-old Nassar was at the United States Penitentiary, Tucson, which holds about 1,390 male inmates. The bureau’s website listed his release date as March 23, 2069.

After weeks of horrifying testimony from nearly 200 victims about his decades of abuse, Nassar was sentenced on Monday in Michigan to 40 to 125 years in prison.

He had already received Committee Board of Directors a 40-to-175-year sentence in a Chairman Larry Probst said neighboring Michigan county, on Friday before the opening and was sentenced to a 60-year ceremony of the Pyeongchang federal term for child pornography Winter Games in South Korea convictions. that the U.S. Olympic system

Prosecutors have said “failed” the hundreds of young there are about 265 known victims female athletes who were sexually in total, including Olympic gold abused by Nassar. medalists McKayla Maroney and The U.S. Olympic Aly Raisman.

Committee has launched an

The Nassar scandal has investigation into its own conduct prompted multiple investigations as well as that of USA Gymnastics into why the U.S. Olympic and U.S. lawmakers are also Committee, the sport’s governing investigating.

Senior officials at USA body USA Gymnastics, as well as Michigan State University, where Gymnastics and Michigan State Nassar also worked, failed to have been forced to resign in investigate complaints about him recent weeks. going back years.

United States Olympic

Serena loses in return but says ‘on the right track’ Serena Williams was understandably far from her best in her return to competition on Sunday but the greatest player of her generation said it was a positive step toward her goal of returning to the pinnacle of her sport.

Williams, playing her first official match since having a baby, and older sister Venus were beaten in a dead doubles rubber by the Netherlands in the Fed Cup in Asheville, North Carolina, but walked away feeling upbeat.

“I honestly feel better than I thought I was going to feel,” said Williams, who prior to Sunday had not played a competitive match since her 2017 Australian Open victory.

“I feel like I didn’t expect to play, you know, like that for me. I feel like I‘m on the right track.”

Williams, who gave birth to her first child last September, showed glimpses of both her prowess and rust during the 6-2 6-3 loss to Demi Schuurs and Lesley Kerkhove.

Early in the match Williams

showed the effects of her lengthy layoff, perhaps most noticeably when she shanked a routine volley that left her bent over in embarrassment.

But shortly after, the owner of an Open-era record 23 grand slam singles titles drew wild cheers when she confidently stepped to the net and stretched out to drive home a superb backhand volley.

“I didn’t know what to expect.

Maybe that’s why I felt like I did better.

I didn’t expect to ...have that much power on my serves, even though they didn’t go in,” said Williams.

“It’s just a start. I feel like that’s a very good step in the right direction.”

Despite the loss, it was a positive step for Williams, who was bedridden for six weeks from a series of complications, including a pulmonary embolism that led to multiple surgeries, after her daughter was delivered by emergency cesarean section.

Still, the 36-year-old American said she came into the tie

Serena Williams (USA) and Venus Williams (USA). the United Arab Emirates, where she with high expectations.

“If I walk out there with low lost to French Open champion Jelena expectations, then I need to stop doing Ostapenko, said in addition to working what I do. So that’s never going to on her serve and returns, she needs to manage her time better now that she happen for me,” said Williams.

“I‘m always going to have has her daughter in tow.

“I didn’t manage my time the best and highest expectations for well, but I was thinking about it in the myself.”

The rubber had no impact on future how to manage it better,” said the best-of-five tie as it was played Williams, whose daughter was among after Venus gave the United States an those in the sellout crowd.

“This is literally my first insurmountable 3-0 lead that put the reigning champions into the April 21- time traveling with the baby and 22 semi-finals against France. everything. I‘m going to try to do

Williams, who played an better. It was hard. It was the first exhibition match last December in time for me.”

LeBron James’s Wine Drinking Habits Seem Surprisingly Healthy

Anyone who follows LeBron James’ Instagram knows how much the Cleveland Cavalier superstar loves wine. Take, for example, the photo of eight empty wine bottles he posted last November with the hashtag #VinoChronicles. Or the casual mention of the pricey bottle of Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru 2013 he downed with a steak dinner that same month. Our dude is a bona fide oenophile.

James and his wine expertise play starring roles in an ESPN feature on the NBA’s obsession with wine, published Tuesday. While reading, you might get the sense that James might like wine too much. That can’t be good for a pro athlete, right?

But in the interview, James reveals that he’s got his healthy wine

LeBron James drinking game on lock.

“I’ve heard it’s good for the heart,” he says. “Listen, I’m playing the best basketball of my life, and I’m drinking some wine pretty much every day. Whatever it is, I’ll take it.”

Whatever James heard is likely some form of the “French Paradox” — the observation that French people seem to drink a lot of alcohol but somehow have low rates of ischemic heart disease. Over the years, many observational studies have shown a link between lower rates of heart disease and moderate consumption of alcohol, supporting this idea.

For all the studies showing this link, however, none have really been able to show a cause-and-effect relationship, so nobody is really sure how to explain why this association exists. Currently, the American Health Association is investigating this by studying whether alcohol affects the body’s levels of antioxidants, raises HDL (“good”) cholesterol, or has anti-

clotting properties.

It isn’t totally clear whether it’s red wine in particular or alcohol consumption more generally that seems to be having good effects on the heart. For its part, red wine is thought to be particularly healthy because some of the chemical compounds found in red grape skins have been shown to help maintain heart health. One class of these compounds, the polyphenols, seems to lower “bad,” artery-clogging LDL cholesterol and increase HDL; these compounds have also been shown to reduce inflammation and improve blood pressure.

Along with fruits, vegetables, and whole grain products, red wine is also a key part of the Mediterranean Diet, which some scientists stand by as a particularly heart-healthy strategy.

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

LOCAL SPORTS

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 47

Not just an athlete but a scholar

Turks and Caicos Islands native Levard Missick Jr. epitomizes the concept of a student athlete. Missick who attended H.J Robinson High School, transferred to the United States to pursue his basketball dreams and is now making tremendous progress.

Currently Mr. Missick is playing High School Basketball in Kentucky, for Pike County Central High School where he is leading his team to a current record of 19 wins and 5 losses in this 2017 – 18 season. As Team Captain, he is an all-around player and is tasked nightly to “Bring the Energy”.

The 6’ 7” Missick recently made the headlines in Kentucky by grabbing 30 rebounds in a single game and also scored 16 points in a 73 – 65 win over Johnson Central High School. According to the record books, the last time

a player grabbed 30 rebounds in a single game in the Kentucky High School Athletic Association was in 2006.

Levard Jr. however, does more than grab rebounds and score double digits, he is also a winner in the classroom. With an outstanding 3.6 GPA (equivalent to a 90% average), Missick is focused, determined and equipped to succeed on and off the basketball court.

When asked what motivates him to do well in the classroom, Missick stated: “Knowing that I have to do well academically in order to play and also to make my family proud.”

Well, Missick has made more than his family proud, he has made his country proud. The new Director of Sports, Mr. Jarrett Forbes stated that he is aware of the talent that Missick has as he

saw firsthand the substantial role Missick played in leading the TCI Rising Stars basketball club to a second-place finish in the Puerto Rico International Basketball Tournament in July of 2017.

Mr. Forbes also acknowledged that Missick is a leader and a great example of the concept of a student athlete.

Going forward Mr. Forbes aims to set standards in sports across the board that will develop tremendous athletes in the TCI with exemplary character while promoting academic achievement and a healthy lifestyle.

The Department of Sports would like to say to Levard Missick Jr. to continue to do well in basketball and in the classroom and continue to make the necessary sacrifices and commitments that Levard Missick Jr lead to greatness.

Jarrett Forbes appointed new Director of Sports

The Office of the Deputy Governor is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Jarrett Forbes to the post of Director of Sports within the Turks and Caicos Islands Government.

Mr. Forbes, a certified Sports Coach in Miami, Florida, has over 14 years of developing and managing sports programs overseas.

He achieved a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Florida International University and a Master of Science in Psychology from Nova Southeastern University in Florida.

Having coached over 300 official games, facilitated extensive player development and recruitment as well as conducting sports camps across both South Florida and the Caribbean, Mr. Forbes is well prepared to excel in this new role.

Returning to the Turks and Caicos Islands in 2016, Mr. Forbes joined the Non Profit Organization,

Mr. Jarrett Forbes TCI Rising Stars as Vice President which made him responsible for coordinating several youth basketball

programs throughout Grand Turk wellness, while engaging individuals and Providenciales, highlighted by and communities in the collective coaching a team of TCI athletes to development of qualified coaches and a Silver Medal in an international officials, premier athletes, competitive teams and world class facilities.” contest in Puerto Rico.

Deputy Governor Anya Commenting on his appointment Mr. Forbes stated; “I am Williams congratulating Mr. very excited to join the Public Service Forbes on his appointment stated: as the Director of Sports. Sports has “Congratulations is extended to Mr. always been my passion and as a Jarrett Forbes on his appointment youth I was motivated to do well in as the new Director of Sports. We school, make positive choices, learn welcome him to the Turks and Caicos leadership skills and develop strong Islands Civil Service and look forward character. to the positive contribution and

“I believe that through sports vision that he will bring to the Sports we can empower both the youth Department.

“As sports has the potential and adults in the Turks and Caicos Islands by developing within them a to change lives in so many ways, I spirit of excellence, competitiveness, encourage Mr. Forbes to work with unity, leadership, national pride and the various schools and NGO’s to healthy living. develop new and innovative programs

“My plan for this role is for the youth throughout the Turks to take a holistic approach to the and Caicos Islands and to bring overall development of our youth more positive awareness to this most and adults through sports and important sector.”

TCIFA Establishes Hurricane Relief Aid

Natural disasters and times of need and desperation are instances that truly test the resolve and heart of many communities. The Hurricanes of last year truly did that to the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Community. In response, an initiative was taken by the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) to face those challenges head on and cultivate a way to assist the players within its programs.

As such, the TCIFA organized a relief effort to assist the children and families in its many Youth Development Football Programs who were affected by Hurricanes Irma and Maria. This took the form of a Hurricane Relief on the islands where the TCIFA conducted its

Youth and Grassroots Programs, to wit, the islands of Providenciales, South Caicos, Grand Turk, North Caicos and Middle Caicos.

Recovery work continued as loads of boxes were packaged and shipped, and members of the TCIFA helped with presenting and distributing items with the objective of providing short-term and possible long-term assistance to the impacted players within its programs. Amongst the items distributed to players and their families were non-perishable food items, water, juices, educational supplies, clothing and general hygiene products.

“We understand the impact

of natural disasters on our local community, and we are willing and ready to show our support for our people by helping those in need. The TCIFA truly appreciates the positive and unyielding relationship it has with its players, supporters and stakeholders, and we have no hesitation in giving back and assisting those in need. It is the humane thing to do. Together, we can all make a difference to those persons who need help to restore their lives,” said President Sonia Bien-Aime.

For more information, please contact TCIFA Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Candia Ewing, at 946-5532 or cewingtcifa@ gmail.com

Page 48

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

FEBRUARY 17TH, 2018 – MARCH 3RD, 2018

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