APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
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$306 MILLION IN REVENUE FORECAST by Hayden Boyce Publisher & Editor-in-Chief
T
he Turks and Caicos Islands Government is expecting to collect $305.9million in revenue during this 2019 to 2020 financial year. This, according to Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon. Sharlene Robinson, is about $26.2million or 9.3 percent greater than the approved estimates for the previous 2018-19 financial year, but 12.3 percent lower than the unaudited performance. The Premier gave the forecast in the House of Assembly on April 16th, 2019, while laying the Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure for the financial year 2019-20 (Consolidated Fund) and the Estimates for the SelfFinancing Statutory Bodies for the same period. “Given our commitment to the future generation to remain economical independent, we continue to forecast a fiscal surplus – a position many countries are struggling to achieve. The primary surplus is estimated at $11.5million, from which, $6.3million will be transferred to reduce our enviable debt portfolio of $9.4million,” the Premier reported. She said that import and other Customs-related duties are forecast to contribute $114.4million or 38 percent of revenue, while accommodation tax at $69.4million, will account for 23 percent of the receipts. Work permits and other immigration fees are forecast at just above $30million, while stamp duty on land transactions, which the Premier said is “very difficult to forecast”, is expected to generate approximately -$28million or 9.2 percent of revenue. Vehicle and driver’s licences are expected to yield $5.4million; fuel tax, $10.5million; seaport departure tax,
Grace Bay Resorts raise over $60,000 for TCI’s Hope Autism Classroom
T
he Grace Bay Resorts Foundation certainly exceeded their expectations as they raised just over $60,000 at this year’s Gala in aid of the Hope Autism Classroom. The event was hosted at Point Grace
$3.6million; excess revenue, $7million; Airport’s Authority, $3million; Financial Services Commission (FSC), $3.5million and Telecommunication’s Commission, $500,000. Donor partners, collectively will contribute approximately $612,000, the Premier added. EXPENDITURE
Resort on Saturday, April 13th. Pictured from left to right are: Hope Foundation founder, Almando Rigby; Actress and autism awareness advocate, Kim Fields; President of the Hope Foundation Maxia
to reinstate staff increments – only this time, we are ensuring that there is value for money and it is being reinstated using a performance/merit-based system. I would like to thank Her Excellency Deputy Governor (Anya Williams) and her team, for their hard work in making this possible.” TOP TEN AREAS OF SPENDING
In terms of expenditure, the Premier said that $96.7million or just about 32.8 percent of the revenues will be allocated to staff costs, with a further $6million allocated to pensions and gratuities. She added: “(For) Civil Servants have weathered-the-storm, it’s payback time. Over $2million has been allocated
The top ten or areas of spending in the budget are: 1.HEALTH - $79.9million or 27.1 percent of total expenditure for the Ministry of Health, Agriculture and Human Services; $75.2m of recurrent expenses and 4.7million in Capital Expenditure. This
Rigby; Grace Bay Resorts Foundation Director, Johnna Messam; Mark Durliat, CEO and Owner of Grace Bay Resorts, Ryan Peete and Actress and autism awareness advocate Holly Robinson. (See pages 24 & 25 for more photographs).
is inclusive of the $33.0m allocation to the NHIP. 2.EDUCATION - $42.5million or 14.4 percent of total expenditure for the Ministry of Education, Youth and Library and Social Services. $35.6 million of recurrent expenses and $6.8 m in Capital Expenditure. 3.POLICING - $30.6million or 10.4 percent of total expenditure for the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. That is $26.2 million for recurrent expenses and extraordinary costs for the ongoing corruption trials and 4.4 m for Capital expenses.
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
LOCAL NEWS
$306MILLION IN REVENUE FORECAST continued from page 1 4.INFRASTRUCTURE - $28.3million or 9.6 percent of the total budget for the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing, Planning and Development. That is $17.1million for recurrent expenses and $11.2 m for Capital expenses. 5.$21.5million or 7.3 percent for the Ministry of Finance, Trade and Investment; That is $21.1million for recurrent expenses and 392,000 for capital expenses. 6.$16.2million or 5.5 percent for the Ministry of Immigration, Citizenship, Labour and Employment Services. 7.$14.4million or 4.9 percent for the Ministry of Tourism and Environment. With recurrent budget allocation of $9.2 m. Capital expenditure is $5.2million. 8.$11.8million or 40 percent - can be announced for the Ministry of Home Affairs, Public Utilities and Transportation. Approximately $1million, of the allocation is for the Capital Expenditure. 9.There will be $8.9million or 3.0 percent of the total budget for the Judiciary Administration; Allocation for the SIPT legal aid programme is $5million. 10.Finally, there will be $6.8million or 2.3 percent of the total budget for the
Attorney General’s Chambers. Recurrent expenses will account for $6.4 million. Capital Expenditure for the AGC is $400,000 Within the proposed budget there will also be: •$16.1million for pensions and gratuities, Catastrophic Risk Insurance Contingency fund and Debt Servicing. •$9.5 million for the Governor’s Office •$3.3million for the House of Assembly •$3.4million for the Office of the Premier, Local Government and Community Affairs •$2.9million for the Deputy Governor’s Office •$1.6million for the Director of Public Prosecutions The Premier also stated that they have also created over 30 new positions which are distributed across the public sector. “To advise you of our historical investment in the crime fighting plan... We have included another five positions for the Police Force and we have released three from secondment positions. In total, the Police Force has increased by 45 or 16.9 percent over a five-year period,” she added.
With respect to other areas of critical spending, the Premier noted that her People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) administration remains committed to “providing the best quality of life for the people of these islands”, therefore the $54.9million transfer to the NHIP and the Hospital Charges will account for the second largest expenditure allocation. •$5.6 million allocated for travel and subsistence expense. •Utility and communication allocation of $5.6 million •Allocation for Rental of Assets is $5.2m. $500,000 for rental of office spaces to accommodate public servants that were displaced following the Hurricanes. o Subvention allocations (Excluding NHIB) is $14.6 million, a further $250,000 has been allocated to the Integrity Commission; $400,000 to the Financial Intelligence Agency; $500,000 to the Community College The Premier said the Estimates have provided for: •Start-up costs for the Health Secretariat •The University of the West Indies – Open Campus •The introduction of a Sixth form Programme at Clement Howell
High School •Cell Jammers for the Prison •New Equipment for Radio Turks and Caicos to expand the reach •Start-up cost for the Gaming Department to transition to a Gaming Commission. The Premier told the House that in the upcoming budget, roughly 34% of the new projects or $10million will be designated to improving TCI infrastructure, of which $2million has been allocated for the road development and sea ramps. She added that government plans to start works on the construction of a Government Complex in Providenciales, repair and upgrade to the NJS Francis Building in Grand Turk, enhancement of the water system in Salt Cay, rehabilitation works on South Caicos Wharf and the Salt Cay Shed, repairs to the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources and the Treasury building. Some $800,000 will has been budgeted to assist with the development of TCI’s tourism project and upgrading the Fish Fry site, while $600,000 has been allocated to assist with the development of the agriculture sector through the development of a farmer’s market and farm equipment and $1.8million has been assigned for the removal of the Mega One Triton.
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Location: Grand Turk Is seeking a Labourer Duties may include cleaning and preparing a job site, loading and delivering materials, and using a variety of tools and machines To work 5 days a week Salary is $6.50 per hour Please Contact: 342-7279 This position is new Interest Turks & Caicos Islander applicants must send a copy of their resume to the Immigration Board
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
PNP Leader Hon. Washington Misick responds to Foreign Affairs Committee’s recommendations
Global Britain – is the term Government should intervene coined to capture the UK’s post-Brexit through legislation or an Order in foreign policy. The fact that a review of Council. its relationship with its’ territories in the Caribbean is being considered within the A review of the FAC report leads context of its foreign policy is indicative one to conclude that UK politicians of its historic thinking regarding the are engaged in a strategy of attrition Caribbean Overseas Territories: they to neutralise the authority of elected have always been used as pawns in the politicians and marginalise the voice of UK geopolitical chess game. This latest the indigenous people of the Caribbean recommendation is no different and is Overseas Territories instead of resetting driven by the UK post Brexit strategy their thinking to accommodate and regarding its future on the world stage. recognise the cultural diversity of In the case of the Turks and places and people for whom they have Caicos Islands the UK has always responsibility in the international played constitutional “fast and loose” community. while in many cases refusing to take It is insensitive and imperialistic responsibility for its reserved powers to threaten through whatever means the beyond the imposition of sanctions. imposition of standardise cultural values These include the suspension of the of the UK and Europe on UK Caribbean Country’s constitution on two occasions. Overseas Territories by persons unelected The results in each case has always by them, and who cannot identify pivoted away from the best interest of with their past or understand their the people of these Islands. The most aspiration. After all, one of the main recent resulting in the resetting of the arguments of the Brexiteers are that the economic hegemony in favour of foreign UK membership in the EU undermines interest; and an ongoing legal price tag British Sovereignty because of Europe’s that is significantly disproportionate to ability to legislate and make policy the GDP of the islands thereby impacting decisions binding on the UK. The view its’ ability to adequately fund much by the FAC for the Caribbean Overseas needed social programs. Territories is in direct contrast to what Given the history of the Britain wants for itself. relationship between the UK and The recommendations of the her Caribbean Overseas Territories; FAC to legalise same sex marriage in and the current preoccupation by the Caribbean Overseas Territories is British Politicians with Brexit and its also hypocritical and is inconsistent consequences, the FAC report and with what obtains in the UK. This is most of its recommendations appear to demonstrated by way of two examples. have as its intention the appeasement Chris Bryant a member of the committee of Caribbean Overseas Territory and an openly gay member of the Governments as a pretext to persuade commons left the ordained ministry them to legalise same sex marriage and because his conscience dictated that a expand the franchise in the various gay lifestyle was incompatible with the territories. This view is supported by priesthood. The people of the Overseas the myriad of other issues raised in the Territories also have the God given right report requiring institutional and other to exercise their collective conscience fundamental changes in the relationship to choose for themselves on which side before any of them could be attained, of this issue they should stand. The assuming the UK were inclined to oblige. hyperbolic metaphor of Matthew 7:5 In contrast, the same sex marriage and “You hypocrite, first take the plank out expansion of the franchise issues merely of your own eye, and then you will see require their passage into law by the clearly to remove the speck from your House of Assembly, or imposition by brother’s eye” is also appropriate here order in council by the UK Parliament. given the continuing ban on sameHowever, on these two issues the sex marriage in the British Territory of Progressive National Party is resolute in Northern Ireland. its opposition. We reproduce these two Duplicitous standards is now recommendations verbatim and set out common practice by the UK Parliament below our reasons for our objections. in how Caribbean Overseas Territories are treated compared with for example Recommendation 13 European Crown Dependencies as The Government should set a date evidenced in the push for Public by which it expects all OTs to Registries of Interest in the Caribbean have legalised same-sex marriage. Overseas Territories. If that deadline is not met, the Same sex relationship has been
decriminalised in the TCI since 2001, and no one had been charged with a related offences decade before that. What people do in the privacy of their own space should be of no concern to anyone else. But to require a country to legislate behaviour contrary to their belief system is a violation of their rights and must be resisted to its fullest. Many of us have family members and friends with same sex preferences. This does not interfere with our empathy or love for them but when same sex marriage is regarded by the majority of Turks and Caicos Islanders as being anathema to the direct admonition of God to whom we believe we owe our greatest loyalty, any attempt to force it into law is contrary to the will of the people and will be resisted by the PNP. Turks and Caicos Islands must now take a stand even if it means ending the relationship as we now know it.
Recommendation 14 The UK Government should initiate a consultation with the elected governments of the OTs and work with them to agree a plan to ensure that there is a pathway for all resident UK and British Overseas Territory citizens to be able to vote and hold elected office in territory. In its response to this report the FCO should lay out a timetable for this consultation process and set a deadline for phasing out discriminatory elements of belongership, or its territory-specific equivalents. The FAC recommendations that the franchise be expanded to include UK citizen and BOTC citizens resident in the islands again betrays the hypocrisy of their intent. The the premise on which it is based is a non-sequitur and in direct contrast to Britain’s xenophobic vote to leave the European Union. The difference is that Britain’s population is somewhere north of 67 million people compared with 35 thousand in the Turks and Caicos of which an estimated 55% are non-Turks and Caicos Islanders. This gap will widen as the economy of the islands grow and the demand for labour grows with it. Organic growth in the number of persons qualifying for status will mean that the franchise will automatically be broaden. Turks and Caicos Islanders with heritage rights will therefore become a very minor fraction of the population in the future. The Progressive National Party will not accede to the FAC agenda of political and cultural marginalisation by accelerating the dilution of the
Hon. Charles Washington Misick, Leader of the Opposition Progressive National Party (PNP). franchise. Gender neutral policies and legislation favouring individuals belonging to vulnerable groups are evident everywhere including the many affirmative action laws in the US in favour of African Americans and Native Americans. Legislation and policies in Canada favour First Nation People. This practice is referred to as positive discrimination and is important for social and economic justice. This right is preserved in the Constitution of the Turks & Caicos Islands and must not be tampered with. The TCI have several pathways to citizenship including through investment, marriage, and residency. – attainment of citizenship status in some cases is as short as five years. Relaxing the rules on who may vote and hold office in the Turks and Caicos Islands is a recipe for wholesale takeover of the Islands and the relegation of the indigenous people to the margins of society - especially given the current lack of access to capital and other resources for positive growth within the Territory. As part of resetting the relationship between its Caribbean Overseas Territories UK politicians need to reset their own thinking and Global Britain should respect the rights of Caribbean Overseas Territories to disagree on fundamental questions of value pathway to citizenship, and population policy. The benefit derived by the Turks and Caicos through its relationship with the UK after Brexit is mostly intangible. Failure to respect the rights of the Turks and Caicos people is therefore an invitation to self-determination; one that the Progressive National Party takes seriously and on which it will act with the support of the people.
TCI’s basketball players soar to new heights at Leeds City College By Todeline Defralien Four players from the Turks and Caicos Islands; Randy Jean-Guy, Renaldo Gabriel, Ronal Sainvilus and Shane Delicate are making a name for themselves as they helped the Leeds City College basketball team defeat Notre Dame Sixth Form 70-28 on Wednesday 3rd April, 2019, to win the Association of Colleges Yorkshire League. This is the first year that the college has competed in the league and they have been crowned champions thanks to the help of four players from the Turks and Caicos Islands. Captain of the team, Randy Jean-Guy, led the team and the league in scoring this season with an average of 24 points per game. Speaking about the four players, Leeds City College Coach Will Hopper said, “This is the first year that the college has competed in the league and we finished 1st with a 11-1 record. These boys played a major part in our
championship winning season and they deserve to be recognised for their hard work and achievements both here in Leeds and back in their homeland.” He added: “Over the last three years, we’ve had a total of 18 players originating from Turks and Caicos and I am told that there will be more players coming over to join us in September. It has been a very successful link between the college team and Turks and Caicos and we hope that it continues. I believe these boys deserve to be recognised for all the hard work and dedication they have put in to making our basketball programme a success.” The basketball programme at Leeds City College has been running for three years and there has been an influx of students on the team from the Turks and Caicos Islands Hopper continued: “Eighteen in total over the three years. We are very proud of our cultural diversity at the college and on the basketball team with players hailing from the
Champions group photo Caribbean, Eastern Europe and Asia. With this season’s success, the college team is becoming a basketball academy in September where students will be able to mix between the court and the classroom with schedules that combine focused basketball training and game time with academic support.” Leeds City College is one of the largest Further Education institutions in
the country and operates out of three main campuses – Park Lane, Technology and Printworks – as well as having provisions in smaller community centres across Leeds. It has 1,267 members of staff, over 20,000 students and is one of the biggest providers of apprenticeships nationally. Keighley College and Leeds College of Music are also part of the Leeds City College Group.
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
LOCAL NEWS
The Bight Hotel - New development for Turks & Caicos Islands
The Bight Hotel and resort property aims to authentically and efficiently bring more of what is loved about the Turks & Caicos Islands... while leaving behind the price tags, maintenance and unused space. The Bight Hotel, with 66 units / 89 keys, centering around the highly adaptable King Suite Studio, fulfills a long-standing gap in the Turks & Caicos Islands’ real estate market for a desirable yet affordable four-star resort property. Add in elevated ocean views from its 7 acre property (just southwest of Wymara Resort) and simple beach access to 1,000 feet of pristine beach and you’re on to a winner. EA Group, a well-known and established TCI group of hospitality and property-focused companies, are the force behind the conception of this desirable product. Ryan Jones, Director of EA Group and husband of Natalie Zaidan, who is also a director, stated, “We designed The Bight Hotel to be authentic, experiential,
and hip with the primary objective that it be a great investment opportunity. We wanted to eliminate excess, like enormous wrap around porches, indoor dining rooms and massive kitchens, that owners rarely use, and prioritize more of the things modern buyers and vacationers want, like fitness facilities, farm-to-table food and gardens, stunning views, access to tons of Grace Bay Beach, and authentic island experiences. We recognize owners are going to use the property three or four weeks of the year so to make sense it principally has to be a fantastic investment.” The resort’s refreshing simplicity centers around the brilliantly designed King Studio. “The studio design has wonderful optionality with something for everyone,” remarks Joe Zahm, President/Broker of Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty, “You could have a queen bed with a bunk bed in the space, or two twin beds to accommodate your teenagers, or you may want to connect the studio unit to
Natalie Zaidan and husband Ryan Jones another to create a double unit, or a three bed penthouse...the emphasis is on ease of use, rentability, and optimal sleeping capacity. There is currently nothing on market like it - plus it’s just cool!” EA Group chose Simon Woods Architects to design the highly
amenitized resort and innovative floor plans, which include custom designed interiors and furniture such as signature daybeds and bonket seating bedded into seamless floor to ceiling glass walls. Each and every unit provides smashing views of Provo’s north shore towards Northwest Point, with the first level raised approximately 50 feet to take advantage of endless ocean views over the preserved botanical and meditative garden of the Bight National Park. The Bight Hotel will offer an on site restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, swimming pool, bar, cross fit gym, spa, kid’s club, farm, rum distillery, coffee shop and barn to host special events and weekly movie nights. Introductory pricing ranges from $377,000 to $1.7M providing a welcome option for investors, couples, and families seeking an attractive price point, access to the Turks & Caicos market, or simply a more authentic and experiential property. Links to these two prices ranges are provided below.
Grace Bay Resorts raise over $60,000 for TCI’s Hope Autism Classroom By Todeline Defralien In celebration of 10 years of service to the community, the Grace Bay Resorts Foundation hosted a Gala in aid of the Hope Autism Classroom where they were able to raise just over $60,000. The spectacular event was hosted at Point Grace Resort on Saturday, April 13th. The aim of the event is to raise funds for the Hope Autism Classroom. It began at the pool bar with a bubbly hour sponsored by The Wine Cellar where Mionetto and Mionetto cocktails were poured as guests enjoyed the sounds of Sir Clarke on the saxophone. They were then led to Grace’s Cottage for the main event. Actresses and Autism Awareness advocates, Holly Robinson and Kim Fields, were the special hosts for the sold out event. The Ministry of Education
was in attendance, as they made a pledge to The Hope Autism Classroom. Permanent Secretary Mr. Wesley Clerveaux brought remarks on behalf of the Minister of Education who had to travel unexpectedly. Also in attendance were sponsors Price Waterhouse Coopers, Gilley’s Enterprises, InterCaribbean, Turks and Caicos Tourist Board, to name a few. Mark Durliat brought remarks, along with Nikheel Advani who was unable to attend but appeared on video. Hope Foundation founder, Almando Rigby also brought touching remarks. Later in the evening, Holly Robinson Peete shared her journey to advocacy through video, which was followed by a heartfelt testimony by her daughter Ryan, twin to Holly’s autistic son RJ Peete. In an interview with The SUN, Grace Bay Resorts Foundation Director, Johnna Messam said, “When we first
embarked on this journey, our goal was to at least be able to offset the cost of what the Hope Autism Classroom advised their annual expenses were, which was $60,000. With the Silent Auction, donations, the pledge from the Ministry of Education and tickets and tables purchases, we were able to raise over $60,000, exceeding our expectations. We’re thrilled to be able to assist the Hope Autism Classroom and hopefully the Ashley Learning Centre and look forward to being able to assist in the same capacity next year.” She added: “I was blown away by the overwhelming support from the community. Our maximum capacity was 130 seats and we had a sold-out event. We had calls up until the day of the event with hopefuls wanting to attend and purchase last minute, but due to the venue, we had met our max. We also received donations from persons who were unable to attend but
still wanted to support the cause.” Messam stated that they intend on making this an annual event as they truly believe the support for access to the resources for Special Needs in this country is imperative. “We are currently looking into partnership with the other Special Needs Organization, The Ashley Learning Centre to ensure access to resources and funding is shared across the board,” she added. The highlight of the evening was a surprise murder mystery that the guests were not aware of until the dinner began. Guests spent the evening reading suspect profiles and using clues to help guide them to the murderer; while enjoying a four course meal and the amazing Sound Proof Band. The winners of the murder mystery were Gilley’s Enterprises who were also a sponsor of the evening, and the Petrovich family.
Tourism Speaks! It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to the first edition of the Turks & Caicos Hotel and Tourism Associations (TCHTA) Tourism Speaks bi-weekly column. As a country that is mainly dependent on the tourism sector to drive the economy, it’s paramount that we create a communication avenue to discuss the importance of our tourism product while highlighting the enormous economic impact it has on our country. Tourism accounts for a
large percent of the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and impacts the economy in a significant way. Our ‘beautiful by nature’ destination has been blessed with its turquoise waters, top of the line amenities and luxury resorts, condos and guest houses making it undeniably one of the world’s best destinations. Over the past decade, brand Turks & Caicos has seen increasing expansion and diversification of its offerings. With new luxury resorts, restaurants, excursions companies and
more flights from North America, the country is on a fast track to becoming the premier vacation destination in the Caribbean. It’s necessary to further the culture of hospitality to promote the development of our country. In these columns, we hope to share fresh ideas and create innovative ways to not only bolster the country’s current offerings of pristine vistas and beautiful people but to also develop new approaches to garner the attention of residents and visitors alike.
As Destination Turks & Caicos grows and becomes an international household name for luxury, the question that looms is, “How important is Tourism to the Turks & Caicos”. We will be discussing the question in our next edition; we invite readers to share their thoughts with us via email at pr@turksandcaicoshta. com. Let us know why tourism is important to you. We look forward to discussing this further in the next edition of Tourism Speaks!
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
Big Plans for Kew Town Park, over $50,000 investment, says MP By Todeline Defralien An over $50,000 investment is on the way for the existing Kew Town park in Providenciales, according to Hon. Douglas Parnell, MP for Kew Town and Cheshire Hall. In an interview with The SUN, Parnell stated that big and ambitious plans are in the works. He said, “These plans include, proper lighting of the park, paving of the parking area, Astro turf placement, drinking fountains, fencing and repairs, proper signage, swing sets. The drains on the road surrounding the park will be covered; the estimates are being compiled but more than a $50,000
investment.” and mature persons. Parnell said a park With that said the park which management committee has been set is kids friendly will now be built up with members from the Kew Town with equipments that will be parentcommunity which will work closely friendly as well. It will include an area with Government departments to to conduct games and activities such ensure proper management of this as aerobics, yoga, camps etc. community asset. This team has been “We are also developing plans meeting for the past month. Some for the second park in the Kewtown cleanup work was done by Government at the roundabout on Walter Cox in March but a more comprehensive Drive. This will be a business park solution is in the works.” with facilities for persons to rent stalls The benefits for the and operate in a fair like environment, community are for recreation, social, ‘The Kewtown Fair’. Both parks have a management committee made up and entertainment purposes. Parnell revealed that a of persons from within the Kewtown program of events and activities are community and have my full support,” being produced targeting both young he explained. Hon. Douglas Parnell, MP for Kew Town and Cheshire Hall
New ideas for Kew Town Park
Hurricane season will be ‘normal, but 2 or 3 could be major When the 2019 hurricane of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, the season starts, it is going to be a “normal” Tampa Bay Times reported. There were 15 named one, according to a North Carolina State University professor’s prediction. storms last year, according to the ` The forecast that Lian Xie National Oceanic and Atmospheric anticipates calls for “13 to 16 named Administration, or NOAA. In the past two hurricane storms forming in the Atlantic basin,” according to a story posted on N.C. seasons, storms such as Harvey, Irma, State’s website. Florence and Michael were among the The 2019 hurricane season will most powerful to make landfall in the begin on June 1 and run through Nov. Southeast, leading to fatalities and destruction through both Carolinas. 30. This season will be normal Xie forecast five to seven storms could because the average number of storms become hurricanes this year, “with formed between 1995 and 2018 has the possibility of two to three storms becoming major hurricanes,” N.C. State been 14, according to N.C. State. If Xie’s prediction is accurate, reported. The N.C. State prediction, that will mean a decline in storms from the past two years, which were both which the school reported is based off above average. “100 years of historical data ... weather In 2017, there were 17 named patterns and sea-surface temperatures” storms that formed in the area that among other variables, is similar to the includes the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf storms forecast in 2019 by AccuWeather.
AccuWeather predicts this season will have five to seven hurricanes, with as many as 14 tropical storms forming in the Atlantic, according to the Caller Times. While there might be fewer chances for storms to inflict the devastation that Florence or Michael caused in 2018, the hurricanes that are formed could be just as dangerous. “This year, we think that there will be a few less tropical storms and lower numbers in hurricanes, but again, the old saying is ‘it only takes one’,” AccuWeather forecaster Dan Kottlowski said, according to the Tampa Bay Times. Meantime, the DDME has increased its proactive preparedness activities throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands. According to a Government press release, over seven critical training workshops have been successfully
completed across all islands to improve local capacity and resource mobilization to respond to the hazard threats and impacts. Director of the DDME Dr. Virginia Clerveaux, continues to urge all residents and stakeholders to step up their personal level of preparedness from today. “It is never too early to prepare, and if you fail to prepare you are truly preparing to fail.” It’s time to get ready and stay ready, because the Hurricane Season is approaching. The storm names for the 2019 upcoming season have been officially released by the Colorado State University’s hurricane research team. Additionally, scientists are predicting a total of thirteen named storms, five of those will become hurricanes and two will become major hurricanes, meaning they will be Category 3 or stronger.
New Departments of Trade, Housing being created Two new Government departments, a Trade Department and Housing Department, will be created, Premier Hon. Sharlene Robinson announced. While laying the Estimates of Expenditure in the House of Assembly on April 16th, 2019, the Premier said that in creating the Trade Department, Government is showing that it is committed to further improve the trade and business environment in the Turks and Caicos Islands. “The timeliness of this undertaking is especially significant given the anticipated impact on our access to the European market on account of the UK’s planned withdrawal from the European Union. We have commenced discussions
with the UK Department for International Trade on participating in future UK free trade agreements should the UK cease to be a member of the European Union,” she said. In re-establishing the Housing Department, the Premier said government will be hiring 6 staff members to carry out the functions. “Following the Storms of 2017, the need for this Department became increasingly evident,” she said. “The Housing Department is being reestablished to assist in addressing the serious housing needs throughout the Islands. More specifically it will help to formulate a Housing Policy that will seek to increase home ownership by improving access to housing through public and private
ventures and will assist in keeping the housing stock in good state of repair.” Premier Robinson also announced that there is provision for a Change Manager for the Vocational Program and specifically for ensuring that the TCI will begin a Trade School 2020. In addition, she said there is also provision for a Change Manager to spearhead the work for the Border Protection Agency to be formed. Revenue Reform and Restructure Robinson, who is also Minister of Finance, said the the Revenue Department, with assistance from Caribbean Regional Technical Assistance Centre (CARTAC), will be conducting a feasibility study in line with TCI Government’s objective of enhancing government’s capacity in raising and sustaining revenues.
The ultimate objective of this transition is to increase autonomy in revenue administration, she said. “The intention is to improve performance by removing impediments to effective and efficient management while maintaining appropriate accountability and transparency. If formulated and used effectively, this transition can be a catalyst to enable broader revenue administration reforms. In this regard, several technical assistance sessions with CARTAC are expected to take place in 2019/20 budget year to determine the most effective course of action and the effective date of this transition which is expected to extend into 2020/2021 budget year,” the Premier stated.
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
LOCAL NEWS
$360,000 needed to complete Leeward Green Park By Todeline Defralien A total amount of $360,000 is needed in funds to complete the outstanding works at the country’s first Green Park in Providenciales which should have been completed since November 2016. This amount was revealed by Minister of Health, Hon. Edwin Astwood during a House of Assembly meeting on Monday March 25th. The Minister announced the figure following questions asked by Hon. Akierra Missick, Leeward & Long Bay MP. Missick asked, when will the Leeward Green Park be opened to the public; Is the contract completed, and if not completed what are the outstanding works at this stage; and how will the site be managed by the Ministry of Sport. Responding to the questions, Hon. Astwood said, “According to the Public Works Department, the Leeward Park has facilities which patrons can utilize to date. There has not been an official opening because contractually the works are not complete. Following
the storms of 2017 the project stalled as with many other projects as the focus shifted to more crucial recovery works and exercises.” In addition, he stated that to date the project is in its takeover stage with the intention of issuing another contractor for the remaining works. According to Public Works Department, the outstanding works are as follows; the Installation of Astro Turf to Play Areas $40,000, the installation of fencing to Tennis Court - $55,000, Installation of new Irrigation System - $18,000, installation of Perimeter 4’ high fencing - $60,000.00, repair works to Gazebo Roofing Structure $12,000, repair works to Male and Female Toilet, $8000.00., installation of Top Soil and Sod- $35,000.00, installation of Bleachers- $50,000.00 and installation of Perimeter Running Track - $75,000.00. Astwood said that once the works are completed, the park would be turned over to the Department of Sports who will manage the Leeward Park. Williams Drafting was responsible for the construction of the Leeward Green Park.
Suite#5, Airport Plaza Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Tel: (649) 348-6838 Fax: (649) 941-3281 Email: sun@suntci.com Read us online at www.suntci.com Publisher & Editor-in-Chief: Hayden Boyce Graphic designer Information Technology and Production Manager: Kelano Howell Todeline Defralien Reporter
Edwin Astwood, Minister responsible for Health, Sports and Human Services
Greening the Turks and Caicos: 22 April 23rd to May 23rd The Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) will be ‘greening’ the Turks and Caicos and invite you to join us in various activities to celebrate Earth Day (22 April), International Day for Biodiversity (22 May), and World Turtle Day (23 May). Earth Day will kick off the ‘KNOW YOUR REGULATIONS’ campaign. The DECR hope to educate the community, at large, about the TCI’s environmental rules and regulations through social
Turks and Caicos Sun
media, radio, television, and printed material. Various school activities will also be held in honour of Greening the TCI, including the annual essay competition, a poster competition, book readings and a poetry contest. Activities will touch on the Turks and Caicos International Film Festival youth program, sponsored by Royal Bank of Canada, and the imminent single-use plastic bag ban awareness campaign in collaboration with the Turks & Caicos Hotel & Tourism
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.
Association (TCHTA) and Carnival Cruises. If you, your business, or your school, would like more information on how to keep the TCI Beautiful by Nature, and how you can get involved in these activities, please contact the DECR’s Environment Outreach Coordinator, Amy Avenant, at 338-4176 or avenant.amy@gmail.com and keep an eye on the DECR Environment Outreach and Education Facebook page for more details.
TCI Middle school coastal field trip with DECR The Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) had the opportunity to assist the TCI Middle School with a coastal field trip. As the students prepare for their upcoming exams, the group joined Environmental Officer McLeod on the beach where they were able to discuss various factors influencing coastal dynamics as well as beach & sand
dune ecology. Students were able to learn about various methods used to monitor the beaches and what socioeconomic considerations might be made from study results. The DECR would like to note that we continue to be impressed by the intelligence possessed by the youth within the Turks and Caicos Islands and wish our students good luck in their
upcoming exams. If any schools across the TCI wish to conduct any educational activities relating to the environment and wish to have the DECR involved, they can contact our Education and Outreach Officer Amy Avenant via avenant.amy@gmail.com or can contact the DECR generally via environment@gov.tc.
Dalvem Ltd
HOUSEKEEPER Island Escape (TCI) Ltd is seeking candidates for the above position. Must have a minimum of 5 years’ experience in housekeeping. Must have your own transportation. Must be able to communicate in English; additional languages is a plus. Must be willing to work long hours, weekends and holidays. Tasks include but are not limited to cleaning of villas, inventory check of household items, reporting to Supervisor when something does not work, submitting meter reading. Remuneration: $6.50 per hour based on experience and qualifications. Kindly forward resumes and qualification to oa@ fchamberslaw.com, copying same to the Turks and Caicos Islands Labour Department and Immigration Board.
Leeward Highway, Providenciales •Is seeking (2) LABOURER First time Work Permit
Nature of position: To be carried out heavy manual labor as many tons of material must be carried to various locations on the property and requires a minimum of 2 individual to handle the load (typically one at each end eg. One pushing a wheel barrow and one pulling with wheel barrow with a rope). Wage: 6:50 per hour •Is seeking MASON First time Work Permit Nature of Position: Prepares surfaces prior to beginning work. Fabricates, alters, repairs and maintains walls, sidewalks and other related structures or surfaces. Lay blocks or bricks following blueprints, plans or drawings. Wages:$6.50 per hour Please Contact: 341-3282 Belongers are encouraged to send applications and resumes to the Labour Board.
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
LOCAL NEWS
United Way Turks & Caicos to host reading relay to promote literacy United Way TCI will host its 1st annual Reading Relay on Monday, April 22nd at the TCI National Stadium to culminate the organization’s 5 weeks long national read-a-thon under the theme Reading Superheroes. Officially launched in March, the national literacy campaign is part of United Way TCI’s mandate to improve literacy throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands by encouraging children to read. The Reading Relay will take place at the TCI National Stadium on Monday April 22nd with over 300 students from 11 participating schools registered to be a part of the relay. Claudine Ewing, Executive Director of United Way TCI commented on the reason behind this latest campaign by saying; “Our aim this year is to focus on education and that is why we are tackling literacy and reading in our primary schools. We know that many of our students are not reading at grade level. We are using this initiative to make reading fun and make them better readers. Our aim is that no child is left behind when we have the opportunity
to assist.” She further noted; “The reading relay will be a great way for students to showcase their reading skills and improvement.” The Reading Relay is the final event of a national read-a-thon which encouraged students to read to friends and family for a sponsored fee. The top two students with the most reading hours were chosen as readers of the week by their school and named reading superheroes by United Way TCI. United Way TCI has pledged to donate 25% of the proceeds raised by each school to their PTA and 75% of proceeds will go to fund the Reading Intervention Program- “Yes I Can Read”, which is an after school tutoring program helping children become better readers. The winning school will receive an updated library and the student that raised the most money will receive a vacation for a family of 4. The Reading Intervention Program has already been launched as a pilot program at the Enid Capron Primary School and the contribution
of more funds will help to expand the program to more children in need. “Based on the government’s statistics we have over 1,700 students in the government primary school system with a great number of them not reading at grade level. There are many contributors to this, such as learning disability, language barriers, etc.” Ewing stated. The Reading Relay will begin at 8am on Monday, April 22nd at the Turks and Caicos National Stadium. We appreciate the contribution of our many sponsors, volunteers and The Government of the Turks & Caicos Islands. United Way Turks & Caicos
was born in 2018 from the desire and generosity of a single donor that believed in United Way World wide’s mission and values and wanted to replicate the success of the United Way business model in the Turks & Caicos Islands. United Way Turks & Caicos Island envisions a community where all individuals and families achieve their human potential through Education. Our Mission is to improve lives by cultivating and inspiring the caring power of the community to advance the common good of all. For more information on United Way TCI, please contact Claudine Ewing at 343-3000 or info@unitedwaytci.org.
Yanique Haye-Smith qualifies for IAAF World Championships By Todeline Defralien Yanique Haye-Smith recently set new Turks and Caicos Islands national record and a new personal record in the 400meter Hurdles at the Grenada invitational. Haye-Smith is the first Turks and Caicos Islander who qualifies for IAAF World Championships and ranked third in the world in the 400meter Hurdles. Making her country proud, Haye-
Smith who now qualifies with her time of 55.65 is on the road to Doha for the IAAF World Championships in September 2019. The 29-year went head to head with Cassandra Tate of the US, who placed second in the event; Sparkle McNight of Trinidad and Tobago who was third; Nikita Tracey representing Jamaica who was fourth and Katrina Seymour of The Bahamas. Yanique clocked 55.65 in the event at the meet held at the Kirani James Stadium in St. George, Grenada and which was carried
live on ESPN. Haye-Smith is preparing for the Drake Relays to be staged in Des Moines, Iowa from April 24-27, 2019. Commenting on her win in a Facebook post, Haye-Smith said, “Thankful for the Win at the Grenada Invitation 2019, new national record TCI, Personal Best, world championship qualifier, 3rd IAAF World ranking. Thanks for the Support Everyone!, Team TCI to the World.”
Yanique Haye-Smith
PROVO GOLF CLUB
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 PROFESSIONAL JOB SUMMARY
•Provide competent golf instruction to members and guests. •Run Golf Clinics for larger groups needing instruction. •Assist with organizing charity golf events at PGC. •Fully co-ordinate group events from start to finish. •Assist in tournament sales and set up. •Assist in a variety of other Golf Professional duties at PGC. REQUIREMENTS
•Must have membership in PGA of America or Canada. •Strong computer skills using Microsoft Word, Excel and Publisher. •Minimum (2) years or more experience as a Golf Professional. •Proven organizational skills. Remuneration for this position will be 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 May 6, 2019.
GOVERNMENT VACANCY JOB REFERENCE: JOB TITLE: DEPARTMENT: LOCATION: SALARY:
KHB9-01 EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR Office of the Premier and District Administration Providenciales $33,415.00 per annum
JOB SUMMARY: This senior administrative support position will provide an efficient and responsive administrative, organizational and logistical service to member of senior executive and/or Minister. JOB REFERENCE NO: KHB9-02 JOB TITLE: Aide De Camp DEPARTMENT: Office of The Premier and District Administration LOCATION: Grand Turk and Providenciales SALARY: $26,650.00 per annum JOB SUMMARY: The job holder is primarily responsible for assisting with the provision of transportation services and to the Honourable Premier and the First Family and the Acting Premier in performing their official duties. The position requires the incumbent to be a mature, responsible and accountable individual who will be expected to maintain high service standards and be very punctual. The incumbent must be able to pay keen attention to detail and be able to work flexible hours. The candidate must also be physically fit in order to carry out the assigned duties and responsibilities. APPLICATION DEADLINE: 25th April, 2019 We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only persons selected for an interview will be contacted.
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
Lindy Rigby, Miguel Swann promoted to senior roles at Grace Bay Resorts By Todeline Defralien Lindy Rigby and Miguel Swann, who are both dedicated, hardworking local young men, were recently promoted to senior roles at Grace Bay Resorts. Lindy Rigby was recently promoted to Director of Rooms and a new member of the Executive Board, while Miguel Swann was promoted to Director of Guest Services. Both took officially took on their new posts on Monday April 15th, 2019. In an interview with The SUN, both expressed their pride and appreciation about their new roles. Rigby said, “I feel blessed and humbled, especially being a local to get this opportunity of being in charge of a division and also a senior leadership role. I am humbled, grateful and thankful to the organization for giving me this opportunity to move up and to grow within my career. I am thankful to God also, because without Him, none of this would have been possible.” He added: “Even though we are grateful for this, we still want more and we still have to prove ourselves to get more. This is actually my third promotion. I wouldn’t say anything is expected, because you still have to work hard and it is not because you were promoted in the past that you are expected to get promoted again. It doesn’t work like that. It wasn’t expected, but it was welcome and I am looking forward to new challenges in my new role.” Rigby became the ninth persons
Managers pictured in a group photo with all the persons who were promoted to become a member of the Grace Bay Resort Executive Board. Commenting on his promotion, Swann said, “I am excited for the opportunity and to move to head of department in just two years, it’s a humbling experience. I am grateful for the trust that the company has placed in me and I hope that I can not only make the company proud but make the country proud that when I do well, we all do well.” He added: “Since being with the company I have matured tremendously and now being promoted to Director of Guest Services, now I am not only responsible for my actions but also responsible for the actions of about 32 others. It is a heavy responsibility but I accept it with open arms and I accept the challenges that come with it.” Both Rigby and Swann believed that being reliable, dependable, their integrity and the ability to do the job,
Professional Maintenance Company seeking the following skilled technician Maintenance technician
helped them to be chosen for these positions. Rigby and Swann thanked the senior leader team, their management team, staff and their support systems. “Everyone is genially genuinely happy to see two young local men that have been elevated to senior roles and one being elevated to the senior leadership table to share in discussions that affect the entire company.” Commenting on the appointments, Director of Human Resources, Sheba Wilson said, “We’ve had a number of promotions since this year came in, but most notable of those is the promotion of Lindy Rigby who now also sits on the senior leaders team which is our executive team at Grace Bay Club. I am elated about that because for many years we didn’t have Turks and Caicos Islanders sitting on that team. I am a part of that team and to have another Turks and Caicos Islander joining in the team, we are certainly breaking barriers and it paves the way for more of us to be able to hold those types of positions.” She added: “This is just the beginning. The celebration lasted just a short moment and then the real work begins. We are also proud of the accomplishments of Miguel Swann who
is also a member of the guest services department. He joined us in 2017; this is just less than two years later and he has two promotions. We are certainly proud as an organization to be able to promote persons who continue to work well and to give their all and meeting the organizations goals.” Among both promotions, 12 other team members at the Grace Bay Club, West Bay Club and Point Grace properties were also promoted. Lindy Rigby joins the Senior Leadership team after holding the positions of Assistant Executive Housekeeper, Executive Housekeeper and most recently, Director of Guest Services. In each of his roles, he has brought a level of leadership and professionalism that is exemplary. Lindy is excited about this new role and we know that he will continue to perform in the spirit of excellence that he has in each role that he has held at Grace Bay Club. Leaders develop leaders and Lindy has a track record of developing his team and paving the way for his assistant leaders to assume department leadership roles. Miguel Swann joined the Grace Bay Club family in June 2017 and has continued to grow tremendously since beginning his career here. When an opportunity came to promote him to the position of Assistant Director in 2018, it was unanimous that he was ready for this next step. Miguel has proven his leadership skills on countless occasions and has earned the confidence of the Senior Management and his team. Miguel came to the resort with a Bachelor’s of Science in Accounting and is a recipient of a Grace Bay Resorts Foundation scholarship, pursuing his Master of Business Administration with the University of Texas of the Permian Basin. This further cements his commitment to excellence and ensuring that the Grace Bay Resorts standard is continuously met.
Maintain the day-to-day operations and to assume responsibility for maintaining the physical assets of the properties under the direction of Premier Contracting Services Ltd. Duties, Experience and Skill set required •Five (5) years experience in industrial refrigeration for commercial cold storage as well as commercial air conditioning systems. Must hold technical certificates for both. •Ability to supervise and coordinate several maintenance technicians while completing numerous simultaneous jobs •Fluent in Microsoft excel, word and office •Technical knowledge in plumbing, electrical and mechanical works, certificates required. •Installation of new equipment including refrigeration compressors, evaporators and condensers, ability to repair all large commercial cold storage •Supervision and development of daily routines of refrigerationmaintenance staff. •Development and production of maintenance budgets, including parts and equipment orders. •Development and implementation of preventative maintenance schedules •Ability to complete tasks swiftly, good problem solving skills is a must. •Experience in the commercial cold storage / maintenance industry preferred. •Installing and repairing components such as Copeland discuss compressors, motors, condenser units, evaporators, switches and copper lines for 404A gas, refrigerant oil •Daily monitoring, checking and overhauling commercial cold storage refrigeration systems, diagnosing faults and repairing/replacing defective components •Experience with Danfoss refrigeration computerized controls •Required to be on call 24 hours, must be able to work nights, weekends and holidays. This Position is currently held by a Work Permit holder. Interested Belongers must submit their application to the Immigration Board. Salary rate: 9hr Please submit applications via email atmaintenance@khcapital. com Deadline for Submission of application April 29th, 2019
Director of Rooms Lindy Rigby and Director of Guest Services Miguel Swann
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
LOCAL NEWS
Grace Bay Club hosts quarterly awards By Todeline Defralien Grace Bay Cub hosted its annual Quarter Awards Ceremony on Tuesday April 16th, to recognise those who have performed exceptionally well for the first quarter of the year. The event was held at Grace Bay Club where the winners also walked away with goodies and prized from the resorts to show their appreciation. With a staff count of 353, the winners were: Employee of the Quarter (Front of House) was Fitzroy Pendley
– Personal Concierge and Wesley Rileu – Pool & Beach. Employee of the Quarter (Back of House) was Carrianna Clare – Reservations and Isena Andrege – Housekeeping. Leader of the Quarter award went to Christie Cadet of Guest Services. Director of Human Resources at Grace Bay, Sheba Wilson said, “One of our core values here is that our employees are our number one asset and we don’t just say that, that is something that we truly believe. Once you treat your employees well, they in turn will take
great care of your guests, which causes repeat business and we’ve seen that over the years here at Grace Bay Resorts. We have employees that have been here for over 25 years and that is a testament to how we treat our employees.” She added: “We find ways to always recognise our staff that have gone above and beyond of the call of duty. Our employees have become very competitive over the years and they look forward to the celebrations which have grown tremendously and we are truly proud of that.”
Managers pictured with nominees and winners of this Quarter
Carrianna Clare – Reservations receiving her award
Christie Cadet of Guest Services receiving her ward
Fitzroy Pendley – Personal Concierge receives his award
Isena Andrege – Housekeeping receiving her award
The celebration cake
Wesley Rileu – Pool & Beach receiving his award
In addition, Christie Cadet expressed her heartfelt thanks to her coworkers and everyone who played a part of her growth at the resort. “This is such a dream come true,” she said. “This is the best place to work and it has been a dream of mine to be a part of this special place and it has proven me right. My co-workers have been very supportive in terms of learning and it is because of them I won this award today. I’m thrilled and I am very proud and happy to be part of the Grace Bay Club Family.”
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
Joanna Martinez admitted to practise as an attorney-at-law in the TCI Joanna Martinez has been admitted to practice as an attorneyat-law in the Turks and Caicos Islands, with her application moved by Griffiths & Partners attorney Conrad Griffiths QC before Chief Justice Margaret RamsayHale on Wednesday, April 10th, 2019. Martinez thanked Griffiths & Partners and Conrad Griffiths, QC, and David Cadman for giving her the opportunity to work and train with the firm over the last six months and for their unwavering support. She also paid tribute to her mother Shonia Martinez-McLean and aunt Donetta Ross and thanked them for their guidance, inspiration and support and for teaching her the value of hard work. Martinez also thanked her father Juan Carlos Martinez, sister Vanessa Martinez and also the Turks and Caicos Islands Government for her scholarship. Conrad Griffiths, QC, said: “We are proud to see a young Turks
and Caicos (Islander) achieve her ambition to become an attorney and a part of our firm. Ms. Martinez and her contemporaries represent the bright future of the legal profession in these Islands.” Martinez was educated at Clement Howell High School and the Community College where she earned an Associate Degree in Law before graduating from Oxford Brookes University in 2017 with a Bachelor in Laws degree with honours. She then completed the Bar Professional Training Course at BPP University in England where she was awarded a Master in Law before being called to the English Bar in 2018. In addition to her academic achievements, Martinez volunteered at St. Aldates Church in Oxford and during her studies she interned at the Department of Public Prosecutions in the Turks and Caicos and Turpin & Miller LLP in Oxford.
Conrad Griffiths QC, Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale, Joanna Martinez and attorney David Cadman
TCI law firm produces BVI Commercial Court Judge A Turks and Caicos Islands- Providenciales since January and will be based lawyer currently finishing-up his spending May to July as a judge of the required period of supervised practice Commercial Court. prior to admission, is postponing his He previously spent three years as application for admission to the TCI Bar a Supreme Court judge in Gibraltar. in order to undertake a three-month stint Before that, he was at the Bar in London, as a judge of the prestigious Commercial England. He has also been admitted to Court of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Australian and German bars. Court, based in Tortola, in the British Commenting on the temporary move, firm founder Tim Prudhoe said: Virgin Islands. Adrian Jack, a lawyer with “The firm is delighted for Adrian and very disputes-specialist law firm Prudhoe supportive of his intended work in BVI. Caribbean, has been based on The good news of his appointment offer
Professional Maintenance Company seeking the following skilled technician Refrigeration/Electrical Maintenance Technician Maintain the day-to-day operations and to assume responsibility for maintaining the physical assets of the properties under the direction of Premier Contracting Services Ltd. Duties and Skill set required •Inspect, repair, modify and install HVAC equipment including refrigeration, A/C, compressors, receivers, expansion valves, condensers and evaporators •Conduct preventative maintenance and inspection of refrigeration units and Air-conditioning systems, make necessary adjustments or repairs •Repair or replace defective electrical or mechanical controls •Operate a variety of tools including welding torches, pressure gauges, electrical testing equipment, and vacuum pumps. •Repair and rebuild semi hermetic reciprocating compressors. •Perform skilled electrical or maintenance work, installation and alteration of HVAC equipment, components, timers, wiring systems, diagnostic and troubleshooting •Maintain records concerning time, labor and materials, maintain log of tasks performed •Lift heavy objects •Communicate in English effectively both orally and writing Education and Experience •Certificate and 5 years documentable HVAC journeyman level operation, maintenance and repair experience in the HVAC refrigeration trade •Valid driver’s license This Position is currently held by a Work Permit holder. Interested Belongers must submit their application to the Immigration Board. Salary rate: 9hr Please submit applications via email at maintenance@khcapital. com Deadline for Submission of application April 29th, 2019
came through just as his TCI work permit was granted and there was never any question of such a prestigious offer being declined. Certainly we are happy to delay applying for his TCI Bar admission in such happy circumstances and wish him every success.” Prudhoe added: “Many in TCI will remember Richard Williams leaving the TCI for his first judicial role, in the Eastern Caribbean, which then led first back to TCI and then on to Cayman Islands and a very senior position there. With Adrian back in the ranks of the TCI Bar later in the year, this jurisdiction will benefit in many respects. I believe it can only be good for the international reputation of the TCI to have an intended future member of the TCI Bar performing in this role, and am proud of the part that I have played in bringing Adrian to the TCI. The judicial appointment very much fits what the firm I have founded is about: top quality disputes lawyers ready to travel for the best type of work. I
Adrian Jack have known Adrian for many years. I am confident that he will be of great service in BVI. We at the firm look forward to welcoming him back to TCI in August.”
NEEDLES & PINS LTD REQUIRES THE FOLLOW EXPERIENCED STAFF: UPHOLSTERER (1) - $8.00 per hour plus commission MACHINE MECHANIC (1) - $8.00 per hour plus commission •Detail orientated and organized individuals required. •Duties include all aspects of upholstery projects from concept to conclusion such as - liaising with clients, onsite measuring of jobs, preparing Estimates, coordinating work flow. Projects includecustom window treatments and bedding; furniture; cars; boats; awnings etc. •Maintenance of all machines and equipment; •Minimum of 10 years’ experience required. •Must have good command of English and Clean Driver’s License Belongers only need apply Please apply via Email to: trish@needlesandpins.net Needles & Pins Ltd., U12 Industrial Park, Providenciales. 649-332-4383 Interested Belongers must submit their application to the Immigration Board
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
LOCAL NEWS
Recording artist “Jack” launched the first alkaline water production company in TCI Turks and Caicos Islands recording artist “Jack”, who was born David Lightbourne, has launched the first alkaline water production company in the TCI under the name “Karsyn’s Fountain Of Life Alkaline Water”, currently available on Providenciales for distribution. The artist who is well known for his music is equally considered a health and fitness enthusiast and once represented the TCI in professional track & field, was a former college football player and also a certified trainer. Lightbourne told The SUN that his interest in health and fitness has led him to introducing Alkaline water in the TCI, a brand of water which he stated he has been consuming for several years with life-changing results. Alkaline Water is water that isn’t acidic or neutral and has a PH balance above 7.0. The artist stated that his production system producers water ranging from 8.5 - 10.5 PH and can be manually changed. Lightbourne said their antioxidant production system includes precision filtration, absorption filtration, reverse osmosis, alkaline filtration, mineralization, ceramic conversion, UV sterilization and ozone sterilization making it very healthy,
clean and multipurpose including skin care. He mentioned that it’s alarming how acidic and poor quality the water that most persons in the TCI consume on a daily basis, including bottled water and stated that it makes it nearly impossible to balance out the body’s pH if we’re consuming mostly acidic products. Additionally he mentioned that some water consumed in the TCI contained large amounts of hard metals that include mercury, zinc, copper, metals which should never be consumed in the body, especially in such doses. He added that while there’s no medical data to prove it, he has a strong suspicion that the many recent cases of cancer, diabetes and other diseases may be directly linked to the water we consumed. The body is made up of at least 70% water, which makes it the likely culprit for disease in the body if the water quality contains dangerous elements. Acid in the body leads to inflammation, and all disease thrive in an inflamed environment. Alkaline water which is filled with oxygen, rids the body of acidity. David encourages the government to look closely into the water sources provided to the public and believes that additional testing is warranted. Check your local listings for “Karsyn’s Fountain Of Life Alkaline Water”.
SIPT defence attorney Malcolm Bishop, QC, translates the Word of God Queen’s Counsel Malcolm Bishop, who is representing Thomas Chalmers “Chal” Misick in the ongoing SIPT trial, has an unusual, indeed unique hobby. Bishop spends each Sunday morning after church translating the new Testament from Greek into modern English. Apparently he knows biblical Greek well having studied Theology at Oxford University before turning to Law. He chose the Theology Honour Moderations course which includes Greek and even Hebrew which he studied for many hours each week. Throughout his career as a barrister he has his Greek New Testament at hand for inspiration and comfort. Five years ago, he underwent a revision course with the renowned Greek scholar Dr. Brendan Devitt, who suggested he use his lawyer’s skills of precision and clarity to translate books of the New Testament. The result was “St. John’s Gospel a Lawyer’s Translation from the o=Original Greek” which was published last year to wide acclaim. The book of Revelation came out earlier this year and he has just completed Mark’s Gospel. He is now working on Matthew and will then go on to Luke. His translation differs from many others because he uses the same sense as the original author, unlike the King James translation which abandons the present tens and uses the past. Malcolm believes using the present tense (Jesus says, not Jesus said) is not only faithful to the original Greek but also makes for a vivid,lively narrative which brings the story of Jesus to life. His efforts have drawn wide praise. Professor Paul Fiddes of Oxford University speaks of “this fresh and vivid translation, crafted with the skills of a legal advocate, enables us in our day to hear the compelling voice of Jesus of the Fourth Gospel. While the Rt. Hon Sir Malcolm Pill, the senior Appeal Court Judge in the
Queen’s Counsel Malcolm Bishop UK says that the Saint John Translation is “a powerful and well-reasoned piece of advocacy John intended.” Malcolm has dedicated his translations to “the Christian martyrs of the Middle =East and Africa” and all profits are being donated to church charities in those regions. Each book is a beautiful hardback volume, in high quality paper with gilt edges and a marker ribbon and make an ideal gift, each costs $13 and can be ordered from Amazon or direct from the publishers by email:books@ troubador.co.uk. Alexa Davies, spokesman for Jonathan White, sales and marketing manager for Troubador Publishing Ltd., said St John’s Gospel is a completely new, contemporary English translation of John’s Gospel based on the original Greek. “Historically John’s Gospel has arguably been the most compelling and influential of the four gospels. It tells us many things about Jesus that cannot be found in Matthew, Mark or Luke. Much
of what we learn about Jesus in John has to do with the fact that he is presented as the complete revelation of God in human form—a fact that shaped the earliest Christian creeds,” he said. “This vibrant translation by Malcolm Bishop QC uses contemporary language and idioms to give a lawyer’s perspective on John’s story about Jesus. Unlike other translations Bishop highlights the extensive use of the present tense in John’s narrative. In John the past tense is interspersed with the present tense (sometimes in the same sentence) in order to create a more lively and edgy narrative suitable to courtroom drama. The pace, immediacy and earthiness of Bishop’s translation vividly and colourfully portrays why Jesus was such a compelling figure to his contemporaries, and why he remains such a challenging individual to us today.” He noted that the Book of Revelation is among the most influential religious works in world history, adding that it has been the impetus for movements from slave emancipation to the Third Reich.
“On each page there is a memorable image, the Whore of Babylon, the Four Horses of the Apocalypse, the New Jerusalem are all phrases deeply embedded in our consciousness. But what are we to make of these strange ideas? This completely new translation by Malcolm Bishop QC, with a helpful introduction and chapter notes By Dr. Brendan Devitt, uses modern everyday language to unlock the mysteries of this treasure trove. The skills of a prominent British lawyer and Queens Counsel have produced a direct, single-minded and purposeful insight into one of the wonders of literature. The book comes in a beautiful hardback edition on heavy stock with gold edged paper and finished with a marker ribbon, and will make an ideal gift,” Davies said. [ Bishop has kindly given this publication the exclusive rights to print excerpts for the translation and they will appear over the coming months beginning with Chapter 1: John’s Prologue]
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
Florida Preparatory Academy -A school for the future with a history of excellence Located in Melbourne, Florida and founded in 1961, Florida Preparatory Academy (Florida Prep) is Florida’s premier college prep boarding academy for boys and girls in grades 5 through 12. With a unique syllabus emphasizing not only academics, but also personal responsibility, entrepreneurial skills, and leadership, Florida Prep prepares students for the unique challenges of today’s academic, life and business climates. Alongside those elements,
strong focus is also placed upon nurturing our students as individuals, encouraging and supporting them throughout their academic and social development at the school. Thanks to our small size and genuine family atmosphere, our students learn not only how to excel as leaders and innovators, but as caring friends, capable of real empathy and support for their peers. Florida’s Prep’s unique location, within the Space Coast Technology Corridor, only five minutes from the beaches and one hour from Orlando,
offers our students the opportunity to surf at nearby Cocoa Beach, to intern at one of the many advanced technology companies that surround the school, and to view rocket launches from nearby Kennedy Space Center. Sometimes all on the same day! Whether you are looking for a program to guide your child to an Ivy League college or simply a school with the ability to work with your child and to keep them academically on track, Florida Prep has a program to suit you. With 100% college acceptance
since 1978, we like to think we are as passionate about your child’s success as you are and it’s no surprise that Florida Prep continues to be a popular school choice for families from the Turks & Caicos Islands. If you are interested in learning more the Florida Prep Admissions team will be in Providenciales , TCI, May 3rd and 4th. To receive further information and to schedule a meeting contact our Admissions department at (321) 7233211 ext. 1 or email admissions@flprep. com
North Caicos-based rental car companies merge North Caicos car rental companies , Al’s Rent A Car, Nicks Rent A Car and Pelican Rentals announced that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement. The new company, Twin Island Adventures, will operate as Al’s Rent A Car starting April 15th 2019 with the largest and most diverse fleet on the Twin Island. The company says the consolidated
efforts were necessary in order to offer customers more competitive prices, enhance customer experiences and a wider selection of vehicles. Twin Island Adventures’ CEO, Albright Gardiner commented “We are excited to offer our customers significant and immediate value and promote North & Middle Caicos as the destination of choice for discerning visitors and residents.” Twin Island Adventures DBA Al’s Rent
A Car offers the largest and most diverse fleet on North Caicos and Middle Caicos, daily and extended hour service, free car delivery anywhere on North Caicos, Free additional driver and Allinclusive pricing. Web: www.alsrentacar.com Email: reservations@ alsrentacar.com P: 649-241-1276/345-7422
Florida’s Premier Boarding School for Boys and Girls in Grades 5-12 Discover why families from The Turks & Caicos Islands rate us 5 stars. Book an appointment today!
MEET OUR ADMISSIONS TEAM at The Sands at Grace Bay Grace Bay Road Providenciales, TCI
Private Appointments
Friday, May 3, 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm Saturday, May 4, 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Group Presentation
The Sands Conference Room Friday, May 3, Start-time 6:00 pm No appointment necessary Where Leadership, Character and A Moral Compass Stand Equal to Academics
Florida Prep, Melbourne, Florida, USA
admissions@flprep.com • + 321-723 3211 #1 • www.flprep.com
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
LOCAL NEWS
Laser hair removal By Dr. Marsha Barnett A head full of hair is a great thing but sometimes hair in unwanted areas can be quite distressing and embarrassing. When it comes on to hair removal, shaving, waxing, plucking, depilatory creams and even electrolysis are some options we tend to use. However, the gold standard for getting rid of unwanted hair is laser hair removal. What is laser hair removal and is it effective? Lasers are light devices that use specific wavelengths of light that are absorbed by specific tissues in the body. For instance, some lasers have wavelengths to cause an effect on the black pigment in hair follicles, or the red in blood vessels and so on. Hence all lasers are not the same as they do not have the same wavelengths and therefore cannot be used for the same things or even in the same patients. The lasers designed for hair removal can be used on most parts of the body and as such, dermatologists use lasers to remove unwanted facial and body hair safely and effectively. During a laser hair removal session, the laser light is used to emit energy to the hairs and the follicles, thereby killing the follicles with heat. Once these follicles are adequately altered, hair regrowth does not usually occur, making this technique your most
realistic option for achieving long term or permanent hair reduction or removal. Removing the unwanted hair often requires a few office visits. Most patients need between 4 to 6 treatments, spaced between 1-2 months apart depending on varying factors such as the body part being treated and the state of the hairs and speed of growth. However, a reduction in hair growth is usually seen after the first or second treatment. For most persons, the hair reduction is permanent and after finishing the treatments, most patients do not see any hair on the treated skin for several months or even years. Even if they do have hair growth in the area months after their treatment sessions, the hairs are usually lighter and finer. In cases like these, your dermatologist will be able to suggest intervals at which maintenance sessions would be required. Because the laser energy also affects surrounding tissues such as the oil glands associated with the hair follicle or acne or hair bumps in the area, laser hair removal will also help clear these lesions, dark spots associated with it and tighten the surrounding skin! What should I expect? There is usually a consult before any procedure is done. During this visit, your doctor will not only examine your skin and the areas of concern but also take a detailed history of your
WORK PERMIT ADVERTISEMENT REQUIREMENT The Ministry of Border Control and Employment is reminding employers, as well as the general public, that the Immigration Ordinance 2015 which was brought into force on April 1, 2016 established new conditions for advertising jobs which must be met when recruiting new staff or seeking a work permit renewal. For clarity, Section 28 (2) of the Immigration Ordinance states the following. The advertisement condition is satisfied if the employer has advertised the position in at least two consecutive issues of a newspaper published in and sold or distributed on the Islands and the advertisement— (a) describes the nature of the position available in sufficient detail to enable persons reading the advertisement to have a reasonable indication of the nature of the work and conditions of employment; (b) contains the name of the employer and details of the whereabouts of the office or other place to which the application is to be submitted together with contact details, including telephone and fax numbers and an email address; (c) sets out clearly the salary package relating to the position; (d) invites prospective applicants who are Islanders to send copies of their applications to the Board; and (e ) state whether the position is currently held by a work permit holder. For further information or questions, please refer to the following Website: http://www.gov.tc/work-permits infobordercontrol@gov.tc
or
address:
current medications, health issues, past experience with skin procedures, tendency for keloid scars and do on. You may also be given instructions for preparation of the skin before the treatment and also skin care guidelines after sessions to ensure an ideal outcome. On the treatment day, before the treatment, the area will be cleaned. Depending on the laser being used, some patients may need numbing gels for 30 to 60mins before the treatment however with newer technology, these treatments are far less painful and extensive numbing is not required. How long your treatment lasts depends on the size of the area being treated. Treating the upper lip takes minutes. If you are having a large area like the back or legs treated, your treatment may last more than an hour. Generally, there is no downtime associated with the procedure and you should be able to get on with your day’s activities after leaving the office. A few persons may however get some discomfort, swelling and redness in the area. Other possible side effects are rare but include blistering, cold sore outbreaks and scarring. It is important to follow your dermatologist’s instructions. Following both the before-treatment instructions and after-treatment instructions will greatly reduce your risk of side effects. Lasers have been used for decades in the management of medical
Dr. Marsha Barnett conditions in a myriad of specialties, including dermatology. Recently, strides in technology have allowed us to treat an ever-expanding range of conditions in all skin types with little to no ill effect. Laser hair removal is perhaps the most popular indication for lasers in dermatology as it is safe, effective and the only option for permanent results. *Dr. Marsha Barnett is a general practitioner who also specialises in dermatology. For questions or comments, please contact her at drmarshabarnett@ gmail.com or at Associated Medical Practices - 946-4242.
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
Are there any lessons our politicians can learn from President Trump? By Drexwell Seymour I know many of us do not like “foreigners” to debate or discuss the political situation of their home country, but ironically we spend so much time and energy discussing the politics of the United States. With that said, and despite our personal opinions and political preferences, I think there are some lessons that politicians and others can learn from US President Donald Trump. He tells you exactly what he is thinking. One thing we can say about President Trump is that he tells you exactly what he is thinking. We may not agree with what he is saying or the tune and manner in how he says it, but he says what he means. This can be a positive trait in that one does not have to second guess his stance. Some of our politicians on the other hand are very disingenuous. They say one thing to you but truly they do not mean it, which is evident in their actions. A lot of them tell you what you want to hear. He is not afraid to address topical issues
President Trump has tackled many sensitive and topical issues such as illegal immigration and the famous wall. Illegal immigration is big issue for all us in the Caribbean. In fact, in Turks and Caicos Islands, illegal immigration issues are some of the root causes of many issues. Some politicians are afraid to touch them because the sector of one group of people is growing fast and may soon be added to the voters list, which in turn may impact the outcome of elections in some districts. We should not be afraid to touch topical issues even if it means risk losing the next election. He is a visionary I think President Donald Trump is a man of vision. He has a vision for ‘Making America Great Again’. His policies and plans reflect that; unlike some of our politicians who come up with fancy phrases and slogans during the campaign but their governance does not reflect their slogans as the slogans are merely words. We need politicians that have a vision for this country, including building a roadmap for the citizens. I am not talking about the construction of roads and buildings. I am talking
about a vision for the building up and empowerment of the people. Do not respond to every critic in a negative way One of President Donald’s main weaknesses is that he responds to almost every criticism. Some of our politicians are the same way. They either respond directly as themselves, or use fictitious names or have others respond on their behalf. I encourage the politicians to examine and review the content of the criticisms. There are some valid messages and solutions in the criticism, and if you address them effectively, the Government under your reign will shine and ultimately the country will be in a better position. However, some of us are so politically blinded that we take the criticism personally and politically. Rather than fixing the issues, they attack the individuals on a personal level. Perhaps it is part a distraction strategy. Consult with key players President Donald Trump has also been criticized by many for not consulting with key players. This is a lesson we also need to learn in the Caribbean.
Drexwell Seymour It seems to me that when politicians become the Government, they behave as if they know everything. Not because you are a politician means you know everything. There are many non-political individuals who are well experienced and have a wealth of information that Politicians can consult with even if these individuals are not supporters of your Government. Conclusion While Donald Trump does have a lot of weaknesses and so do most of us, there are some strengths in the aforementioned that we can learn from and apply in the Turks and Caicos Islands and the Caribbean.
Rev. Bradley Handfield takes issue with Jerome Lynch’s response to Drexwell Seymour Dear Editor, Please allow me the opportunity to say a few words concerning a recent article by Mr. Jerome Lynch. Mr. Lynch wrote in response to an article by Mr. Drexwell Seymour. He pointed out a mistake in the scripture reference used by Mr. Seymour. Mr. Seymour quoted Leviticus 18:22 but mistakenly citing it as Luke 18:22. Mr. Seymour has since apologized for the error and has expressed that it indeed was an oversight on his part. I have no issue with Mr. Lynch pointing out the mistake in scripture reference. However, I do take issue with what he tried to infer. First, I find his snide remark that Drexwell “probably needs to enlist in an early reading class”, condescending and opportunistic. Everyonewho lives in TCI should know that Drexwell is a highly-qualified professional accountant. So, to suggest that he is practically illiterate because of a mistake in scripture reference, exposes the sinister intentions of Mr. Lynch in pointing out Drexwell’s mistake. I take further issue with Mr. Lynch’s inference from scripture. He infers that because the scripture was found in the Old Testament book of Leviticus instead of the New Testament book of Luke, it is somehow irrelevant to the point that Mr. Seymour was making in his article. What Mr. Lynch is guilty of, is being selective with what he agrees with
Finally, I take issue with Mr. Lynch inferring that Drexwell is self-righteous because he expressed his opinion about one of the most topical issues of our day. Drexwell did not pick up stones to stone homosexuals. He only quoted the holy scriptures that Mr. Lynch acknowledged to be holy. Jesus would certainly
Rev. Bradley Handfield (Drexwell’s Pastor)
BUTTERFIELD GOLD GROUP OF COMPANIES POSITIONS AVAILABLE Rev. Bradly Handfield from scripture. Does he not realize that the forbidden sexual practices found in the book of Leviticus has been the foundation of western social norms, and the foundation of much of its laws for centuries? Mr. Lynch rightly pointed out that verse 20 of Leviticus 18 states: “Do not defile yourself by having sexual intercourse with your neighbor’s wife.” He then asked whether Drexwell thought that this should be illegal. Why did he stop at verse 20? Why did he not use verse 23? “A man must never defile himself by having sexual intercourse with an animal, and a woman must never present herself to a male animal in order to have intercourse with it; this is a terrible perversion.” I would like to know if Mr. Lynch would like to see this law changed as well. I would not use my imagination on him the way he used his on Drexwell. I will let him say how he feels if he wishes to.
All positions are held by Work Permit Holders BUTTERFIELD GOLD One (1) Air Condition Technician Require individual with certification in “Air Conditioning / Refrigeration Equipment Operation & Maintenance” with a minimum of (10) ten year’s experiences installation of A/C units and assist with service of general equipment and electrical work. Salary: commensurate with experience starting from $9.25 per hour Location: 23 Parade Ave, Providenciales CORAL QUARRY Two (2)Mechanics The employee is responsible for the repair and maintenance of all company equipment/ machinery, and to ensure minimum downtime of same through proper coordination of the preventative maintenance program. Must have least 10 year’s experiences Must have the ability to lift and move up to 100lbs Must have vision abilities; close vision, color vision, peripheral vision and depth perception. Applicants must have knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions applicable to the trade. Must have the ability to communicate effectively The employee will be exposed to fumes or airborne particles, extreme heat, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock and vibration, moderate to loud noise levels. To be exposed to outside weather conditions. Applicants will be exposed to hazardous work environments. Salary: $15.00 per hour Location: South Dock Road
Seymour responds to Jerome Lynch I have been writing articles on a consistent basis for more than a year now. I realize that I will be under scrutiny and subject to criticism as some of my writings will be topical. Also, some folks think I am pursuing politics (which I am not) and I am a threat to them and so they are trying to discredit me or trying to shut me up. I will not stop writing though. However, I made a decision not to respond to any critics, especially after my family and I were verbally attacked by the fictitious “Theophilus”. However, I must respond to Mr. Lunch’s response in the Turks and Caicos SUN’s April 12th to April
commend Drexwell for bringing Leviticus 18:22 to our attention at this time, even though Mr. Lynch helped in a mysterious way. Yours sincerely,
19th edition. Mr. Lynch is correct in that the reference should have been Leviticus 18:22 and not Luke 18:22. It was a sincere mistake made on my behalf. My intention was never to mislead you the reading audience. I have learned a great lesson from this mistake. In fact, something positive came out of this mistake. Therefore, thank you Mr. Lynch for pointing out that oversight. I am also happy to see that you searched the Holy Scriptures diligently. Continue to search the word and meditate on it day and night.
ROSIE’S DELIGHT RESTAURANT One (1) Domestic Worker All aspects of cleaning & other domestic duties pertaining to the restaurant Be able to work independently Wages: starting from $6.50 per hour Location: 23 Parade Ave, Providenciales Application forms available from Butterfield Gold Human Resource Department. Only Belonger apply. Applicants selected for interview will be notified. Submit applications to: Butterfield Gold Ltd., Human Resource Department 23 Parade Ave Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands Tel: 649-946-4211
Sincerely, Drexwell Seymour
Labour Commissioner, Labour Department Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
LOCAL NEWS
Entitlement By Jamell Robinson
The word entitlement has somehow become a dirty word here in the Turks and Caicos Islands. It is used by some to disparage Turks and Caicos Islanders for things as simple as not wanting to do minimum wage jobs. So let’s explore the word. The definition of entitlement is “the fact of having a right to something.” That’s pretty straight forward and I will give some specific examples of things as Turks and Caicos Islanders that we have a right to and thus are entitled to as enshrined in the TCI Constitution in many cases. What I believe however that the idea of entitlement is confused with the phrase: sense of entitlement, which is slightly different. If someone has a sense of entitlement, that means the person believes he deserves certain privileges — and he’s arrogant about it. That last part, the arrogance is what rubs people the wrong way in most cases. Nevertheless, the following are things that as Turks and Caicos Islands, we are entitled to: 1. Entitlement to the Right to Vote – Before a few months ago with the releasing of the FAC Report one could have said this was a no brainer. Let me make my views on this very clear. If you are not a Turks and Caicos Islander by Birth, by Heritage, by Marriage, or by Grant, you have absolutely no right to vote in our free and fair elections of representatives to our House of Assembly,
period! No UK citizen or BOTC should be allowed to have an automatic right to vote here in the TCI. 2. Entitlement to Land – The Turks and Caicos Islands today has some 35-40,000 legal residents of which about half are Turks and Caicos Islanders. With such a small number why is it near impossible for each Turks and Caicos Islander to get at least one piece of residential and commercial property? With the hundreds of thousands of acres of crown land we still have left, there is more than enough for everyone to benefit plus have sufficient for generations to come. Excluding those that benefited previously, of course. For those who say but land is a finite resource and we can’t do that, here’s a simple solution. The Crown essentially currently holds all crown land in trust, which it can continue to do until our independence, but once a Turks and Caicos Islander can demonstrate through financial statements that they have the ability to develop the land, issue it and give the time frame for which the development has to take place. If it has not been developed then it returns to the land bank. The difference being if said person at a later date has the financials to prove they can develop a plot of land, they won’t be penalized. 3. Entitlement to Business Opportunity – As a young country developing into a nation, there are so many business opportunities and new
industries that Turks and Caicos Islands can pioneer but for the lack of Capital availability. Governments must create the conditions for TCI-Owned Businesses to thrive in this economy. If you can do it for strangers, you can do it for your own. While this might sound foreign or novel to some, know that every growing nation past and present gives its citizens preferences to get a leg up on the competition. How do you think Donald Trump got elected and will likely be reelected? MAGA is his mantra. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on his last crusade before being assassinated i.e. the Poor Man Campaign, advocated for Negro to be given a similar leg up as the European peasants that moved to the American Midwest where they were given land to farm, land grant colleges were set up, plus they got heavily subsidized farming equipment. To this day Agriculture is one of the biggest subsidized industries in the US economy. Get the picture? 4. Entitlement to Fail – The notion that as Turks and Caicos Islanders, if we fail once we will forever be labeled as failures is otter nonsense. But unfortunately it is what stops many of us from taking the leap into entrepreneurship in the first place. I have failed before and will likely fail again in my lifetime. It was those early failures that have made me what I am today from
Jamell Robinson those lessons learnt. Those who knew me from High School and A –Levels knew I wanted to be a doctor but clearly the only doctor Robinson in my immediate family is Dr. Royelle Robinson. What if on returning home with a degree in Geography and Chemistry, TCIG didn’t take a chance on me because of my previous failure and not send me a year later to get a Masters in Disaster Management? My life would be different; I wouldn’t have gotten a distinction as I was way more focused at that point, nor would I become the youngest National Disaster Coordinators in the history of the Region if not the World. The point is failures are simply lessons in disguise. I am sure there are more things we’re entitled to but let’s start with those.
Premier Solutions
is seeking suitably qualified applicants to fill the following positions: PERSONAL ASSISTANT Job Requirements and Responsibilities: •The successful applicant will be required to undertake administrative tasks on a part time basis for about 20 hours per week on average. Such tasks will include: •Supervising domestic staff and contractors, running errands, French/ English translation, making travel reservations, correspondence, general secretarial work. •The successful applicant will need to be reliable, confidential, flexible and able to operate without detailed supervision. •A TCI driving license with own vehicle is required as is fluent English and French language skills (including French/English translation ability). Compensation is commensurate with experience and qualifications. PRIVATE CHEF Job Requirements and Responsibilities: •The role will require creating menus, shopping, cooking and serving meals for lunch and dinner 6 days a week with the occasional breakfast/brunch. •Previous training and experience should include formal culinary training, at least 10 years’ experience working in high quality restaurants (including as an Executive Chef). Previous experience of working successfully as a private chef is also required. •The individual should be able to work without supervision and be flexible of the Working during weekends and holiday periods required. •English language proficiency is required as well as French language skills and a clean TCI driving license. Compensation is commensurate with experience and qualifications. Submissions for these positions should be received no later than April May 3, 2019 Interested persons should forward resumes to: Graceway Hse Unit # 3 attention: Edith Cox, Applications can also be fax to: 649-941-5001.
RBC Royal Bank has a vacancy for:
MANAGER – FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS What is the opportunity?
This is a senior role in which your highly-developed experience in sales, coaching and client acquisition takes centre stage. This role is all about professional relationship management and delivering top-tier financial advice in an end-to-end industry, whose specialized approach aligns sales, products, risk policy, and market strategies to deliver solutions specific for individual needs. Your finely honed solution-development skills, combined with your innate salesmanship talent, portfolio management expertise, and knack for client service, sets the stage for success.
What will you do? • Ensure full team delivers an exceptional client experience. • Partner with Branch Manager, to ensure effective management of the branch ensuring leadership availability across hours and days and business. • Demonstrate commitment to acquire and anchor new clients, build networks and represent RBC in the community. • Build skill and knowledge to leverage tools, resources, digital signage, leads and materials to support advice and recommendations. • Support employees in understanding and navigating career options. • Demonstrate commitment to risk and operational effectiveness. • Ensure employees follow proper processes to eliminate /reduce the risk of cash, negotiation of items and sundry losses. • Collaborate with Branch Manager on building and maintaining a talent pipeline of internal and external candidates, with succession plans in place.
• • •
Excellent coaching and training skills Strong Team Building, written and oral communication skills Flexible, Creative and Decisive
What’s in it for you? We thrive on the challenge to be our best, progressive thinking to keep growing, and working together to deliver trusted advice to help our clients thrive and communities prosper. We care about each other, reaching our potential, making a difference to our communities, and achieving success that is mutual. • A world class training program in financial services • Opportunities to build close relationships with clients • Opportunities to do challenging work • Opportunities to take on progressively greater accountabilities A competitive compensation package (including salary, bonus, pension, health insurance) is offered. Salary in the range of USD$46,200 to USD$69,400 will be commensurate with relevant experience and qualifications.
What do you need to succeed? Must-have • Undergraduate Degree in Business Management or any related field • Five (5) years retail banking experience and at least three (3) years in a supervisory position • Thorough knowledge of banking operations/ policies and procedures/ people and performance management techniques • Strong Leadership, Sales and Customer Service Orientation ® Registered trademark of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence.
Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders should apply by May 3, 2019 at jobs.rbc.com and by sending a copy of the application to the Work Permit Board, Providenciales.
Unsuitable applications will not be acknowledged
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
CAREER OPPORTUNITY Do you aspire to build a thriving hospitality career at one of the leading luxury resorts in the Caribbean? Are you a self-motivated, talented team-player, interested in joining a dynamic team? The Amanyara Resort invites all suitable candidates to apply for the following positions: Pest Control Manager •Proactively prevents, and eradicates the property of various vectors and pests by using chemical solutions, powders, and gases. Also pests proofs buildings. •Correctly sets mechanical traps and place bait, and removes dead rodents after extermination. •Ensures buildings are empty when product is applied and airs out buildings after application. •Inspects property to determine wall and roof porosity and possible sites of pest invasion. •Develops and updates reports including, but not limited to, treatment calendar, month end reports, and monthly inventory. •To execute the BioRationaleProgramme, to provide feedback and to constantly test on results; monitors and dippers, etc. •Ensures pest control team is coordinated and scheduled appropriately to provide consistent service and deliver such programs in addition to special requests and any emergency scenarios that may be different from the treatment plan. •Trainsvarious departments such as Housekeeping, Front Office, Villa Management and Food and Beverage in the good practice of pest control Requirements: •High School Diploma or higher education •Self-motivated, enthusiastic, fit and capable of manual outdoor labor. Also able and willing to work in all weather conditions. •Fluent in English; verbally and written. •Inventory reporting and supply chain management •Microsoft Office suite proficiency Salary range from $3000 to $3500 per month, based on qualifications and experience. Villa Director of Engineering •Leads the Villa Engineering Department under the direction of the Director of Facilities and oversees all event set-ups at the villas.Thereby carries out all predictive, corrective and preventative maintenance of the Villa Electrical infrastructure, water distribution system, refrigeration and all equipment and appliances. •Maintains and improves the hardscaping and exterior engineering systems in collaboration with the Landscaping team and Villa staff. •Responsible for Energy Management and leak control on all Villa real estate. •Effectively communicates and plans all works in collaboration with the Villa Management team and develops good relationships with the Villa Owners. •Ensures compliance with all EHS requirements and safety policies and procedures. •Specializes in electronic equipment, including electric motors, machinery controls, lighting, and wiring in buildings and communications systems, and power generation, control, and transmission devices used by electric utilities. •Tests equipment and isolate defects. Plans, schedules, conducts, and coordinates program of assigned engineering work and projects. Evaluate the effectiveness of the electrical (Upgrade) design and change if necessary. •Controls costs, ensuring that projects are properly scoped,
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costs are reported, and expenses tracked. Prepares financial and work planning forecasts and ensures accuracy in the completion of purchase requisitions. •Maintains a clean and safe working environment; Mechanical, Swimming Pools, Plumbing, and Wood working. •Designs and plans continuous improvement to the entire site utility, this will include emerging technologies and renewable energy sources. •Responsible for developing and overseeing Hurricane preparedness initiatives for all Villas. •Takes monthly electrical, gas, water, diesel, petrol, and meter readings and formulates monthly reports. •Maintains records of the various transformers tests, Megger, Transformer Turns Ratio, Di-electrical, and Oil sampling are performed annually. •Secures, and maintains a record of all tools checked out and in, log keeping proper inventory. •Provides supervision and quality assurance for ongoing projects •Monitors and maintain all lift stations and waste water systems. •Inspectsinstallations and observes operations to ensure compliance with design and equipment specifications and safety standards. •Electrical preventive maintenance procedures and routines and record keeping to be a priority. Develops, maintains, and administers facilities documentation and information management systems by maintaining facilities documentation management systems to ensure drawings, project files, specifications and standards, databases, equipment files, vendor files, historical records and other related documents are archived, up to date, and easily available for use by other departments. •Ensures ongoing assessments of the electrical system, evaluating equipment performance and property’s load balancing; identifying and approving recommendations to improve system performance; and overseeing the implementation of system changes. •Manages the constant maintenance of the architectural finishes on all the Villa buildings to the highest standards. Requirements: •A degree in Electrical Engineering or a diploma in the Electrical Engineering with relevant experience, or a diploma in Mechanical Engineering with Electrical Engineering experience. •Minimum of 5 years supervisory experience in a Property Maintenance or Engineering Department •Knowledge of integrated building control systems and IT capabilities. •Must be well versed in the codes for safe electrical design, installation, and inspection, to protect people and property from electrical hazards. •Knowledge of kitchen and laundry equipment maintenance and refrigeration procedures, Life and fire safety systems, Building maintenance, Weather preparedness systems, GP’s, and Public Areas. Salary range from $9000 to $10,000 per month, based on qualifications and experience. For further information on the above positions please contact us by using the details below. Candidates must be available to work 6 days a week, weekends, and holidays. Positions marked with * are currently held by a work permit holder. However, qualified belongers are encouraged to send a cover letter & resume with the following attachments: Valid Police Record, Passport Bio Page, Proof of TCI status i.e. PRC, Belonger Status Card or Naturalization Certificate. Human Resources Amanyara Resort Northwest Point, Providenciales E: amanyara.training@aman.com Prospective applicants are also asked to send copies to the Labour Board, Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
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APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
LOCAL NEWS
“We the people”
By Ed Forbes
There are four important initiatives I think the government should embark on; all of which are extremely beneficial to this country and local businesses in the country’s capital “Grand Turk”. But the most important issue pertains to the perceived lack of support for our local Marine branch. Here are the initiatives: 1.Public beach access near passenger loading zone, annex Carnival cruise center. 2.Improvement of sanitation services on south beach. 3.The need for a proper public ramp at south dock. 4.A permanently stationed Marine vessel in Grand Turk. On behalf of the boat operators and concerned citizens alike in Grand Turk, we are making a public plea for a marine vessel to be stationed here. We understand the Government has austerity measures in place due to other capital projects. Nevertheless, I think the welfare and safety of citizens should always be high priority for any government. I have personally sent letters to the past and present respective government departments addressing these concerns. There have been discussions, but little to no action taken. We have a dedicated team of individuals working in our marine branch in Grand Turk. They just need the proper tools and resources and to do their jobs. It’s no fault of theirs. I have seen them up on south beach doing the jobs of local law enforcement and regulatory department such as confiscating illegal sale of alcohol, dealing with vendors over arguments with chairs, etc. That should be a no-no. Their expertise should be much better utilized. There is a host of benefits to government allocating a decent vessel just for Grand Turk and Salt Cay, and having a more robust marine branch. 1.First of all, it will provide a means of transportation for rapid response in case of an emergency
H.I Maintenance & Finishing (HIMF)
or a serious illness with our fellow citizens in Salt Cay. 2.Secondly, it will help with the enforcement of DEMA and Fisheries regulations and protecting our marine life. 3.Thirdly, it will help to support the local boat operators especially in search and rescue operations not to include interception of poachers and border protection. Their presence alone in our waters is a show of force and added protection for cruise ship passengers embarking on our shores. On any given day, when the cruise ships are in, we literally have thousands of sunbathers on the beach or in our waters. Many of them stray in non-swim zones with no security, available marine patrol or DEMA presence to assist if needed. This is a huge safety concern. Boat tour operators are required to pay annual fees for radio licenses for each vessel. If there is no readily available marine rescue vessel, what’s the purpose or the value? What are we waiting for; something drastic to happen before reacting? It goes beyond just what can the government do for the people or boat operators. It’s common decency and making public safety and security a priority. With tourism being our bread and butter, particular in Grand Turk and Salt Cay, we need to be more proactive with matters of this nature. It’s not rocket science. What we have to do is start holding the folks we elected to represent us much more accountable. They were placed in office to be the voice of the people and this is an area where they have failed us miserably in Grand Turk. For those who may not have been made aware, there have been a number of various serious boating incidents occurring right here in Grand Turk. I can name a hand full of them. There needs to be a paradigm shift in how we look at Grand Turk in terms of resource allocation, how things use to be and the growing demand for change. Still quaint, but Grand Turk is no longer a small sleepy town. Criminals and weapons are entering our borders ever way they can. We cannot and should not stand by idly or turn a blind eye. Wake up my people!
Palmer Construction
Director of Human Resources Key Tasks •Maintains the training pulse in the business by ensuring that training is always completed where necessary and that the training programs are always up to date. •Contributes to the culture of the training department and overall business through the fostering of communication and cooperation between departments •Plays a strategic role where by managing the strategy, execution, and delivery of training programs across the business. In this capacity, plans, organizes, and directs training and development programs for employees for the purpose of increasing individual and organizational performance and also for the purpose of improving employee morale while simultaneously enhancing their skills. •Designs appropriate training schedules and strategies based on the identified training needs in the business. He is also tasked with the selection of appropriate instructional methods and procedures for each unique situation, for example, individual training, self-study, group instruction, simulation exercises, lectures, demonstrations, role play, computer-based training and so forth. •Taking initiative in assisting individual employees in the maintenance and improvement of their job skills and preparation for promotions or roles that demand greater skills. In this endeavor, the Training and Development Manager sets up individualized training programs in order to strengthen employees’ existing skills or to cultivate new ones. •Responsible for the training requests from departmental managers or project leaders to which he develops and delivers training on time and within the requested budget. •Also trains new employees, ensuring indoctrination into the working cultures, incorporating them into their departments and ensuring that basic skills and knowledge are covered. •Tracks training attendance in all on-going training initiatives and prepares reports as required by senior training and development management and departmental heads and managers. •Proactively work on COMO Approach Initiatives to identify opportunities for sustainability within the department and to implement departmental, hotel and Group sustainability initiatives, including reporting Key Requirements •Minimum seven (plus) years of solid HR generalist experience, luxury AAA 4 or 5 Diamond rated hotel experience preferred. Broad exposure in all facets of Human Resources a plus. •Bachelor’s degree in education, human resources or a related field. •CTDP certified, preferred •Strong knowledge Learning Management System •Professional demeanor with strong interpersonal skills, able to establish credibility •Flexible and adaptable, able to work under pressure. •Working knowledge of Microsoft Office. •Well organized with good written and verbal communications skills. Salary range: USD$38,000K to USD$48,000K per annum. Salary is negotiable and based on level, experience and qualifications. OTHER POSITIONS:
Location: Providenciales Location: Blue Hills, Is seeking Painter Providenciales Duties: Mix, match, and Is seeking 2 Masons apply paint, varnish, To work 5 days a week shellac, enamel, and Duties: Layering building other finishes. materials such as bricks, To work 5 days a week concrete, tiles and other Mon-Friday construction materials Salary - $7.00 per hour Salary is 10.00 per hour Please Contact: 247-6599 Please Contact: 331-2703 This position is new These positions are new Applicants who are Turks Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders and Caicos Islanders should also send copies should also send copies of their application to of their application to the Labor Board the Labor Board #230214
A REWARDING CAREER WITH COMO HOTELS and RESORTS STARTS TODAY!! At COMO, we create experiences worth re-living, experiences that inspire guests to travel and live differently. COMO Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos Islands
#230213
Chef de Partie Commis Chef Demi Chef Food and Beverage Server Butler Events Manager Bartender Kitchen Steward Kitchen Helper Excursion Attendant Housekeeping Attendant Spa/Gym Attendant Boat Crew Security Officer Kitchen/Laundry Technician Playby COMO Attendant (Kids Club) Duty Manager Guest Relations Officer Director of Guest Experience Assistant Spa Manager Financial Controller Cost Controller Salary range: US$13K to US$46K per annum and is based on experience and qualification. Some positions currently held by a work permit holder.
All applicants will be required to successfully obtain a clear background and drug test and for non-Turks and Caicos nationals will require a work permit. Experience in a similar or relevant position is a prerequisite; relevant educational and/or professional qualification is also a plus. To be considered, please visit our career page to apply for our current open positions https://comohotelsparrotcay-careers.silkroad.com Any other questions, you may also contact Human Resources below: careers@comoparrotcay.com
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
SAILROCK RESORT
3RD ANNUAL SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM WE ARE LOOKING TO HIRE TCI’S FUTURE HOSPITALITY LEADERS WE WILL BE EMPLOYING SUMMER INTERNS FOR 3 WEEK ROTATIONS WHEN?
HOW DO I APPLY?
1st SET: July 9TH - July 27TH 2nd SET: Aug 6TH - Aug 24TH
Send an Email to swharton@southcaicos.com With The Subject “Sailrock Summer Internship Program”, Attached With Your Resume, Cover Letter, Status Card (Or Birth Certificate), A Reference Letter From A Teacher, And The Position You Are Applying For.
OPENINGS Food & Beverage Intern Front Desk Intern Housekeeping Intern Maintenance Intern Mechanic Intern Inventory Intern Culinary Arts Intern
REQUIREMENTS MUST Attend Marjorie Basden High School or Turks & Caicos Community College & Be 16 Years or Older
Qualified Candidates Will Be Contacted For Interviews. *If You Are Interested In Multiple, Positions From Most Preferred to Least Preferred
APPLICATIONS MUST BE SENT BY MAY 31, 2019
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
GROUP FINANCIAL CONTROLLER Reporting to the CFO, the Group Financial Controller will require extensive experience in all-inclusive hospitality Finance, in both branded and non-branded properties and in diverse locations. •Must have 5 or more years’ experience managing the finance functions in hospitality operations, for different target groups with a strong background in the all-inclusive offerings; •Extensive accounting experience with a thorough knowledge of preparing month end journals, the closing process, preparation of budgets, forecasts and cash flows; •Maintenance of financial ledgers and accounting processes, preparation of monthly P&L and balance sheet, ensuring that appropriate systems and internal controls are implemented and maintained; •Master’s Degree; •and the must have the ability to work in USA. Salary commencing at $65,000.00 per annum based on education and experience Belongers only need apply. DIRECTOR OF SECURITY The Director of Security must lead the Security Team in order to provide a safe environment for the hotel and private residence guests, owners, personnel, and property. We are looking for individuals with previous police or security experience. Good communication skills is required. Applicants are required to have physical mobility as lifting, walking, bending and moving objects up to 20 lbs. Speaking, writing and reading English is required. Positive attitude and willing to learn is a must. This position requires an applicant with a flexible schedule and the ability to work all shifts, weekends and holidays. Responsibilities •Manage and supervise the day-to-day security force of the property to ensure the safety and security of all guests, personnel, and property. •Implement all policies and procedures regarding security and safety. •Design and implement preventive safety and security programs. •Prevent situations that could jeopardize the reputation of the hotel. •Investigate crimes committed against the hotel, guests, and employees. •Document all incidents occurring in the hotel in connection with crime, subversion, potential liabilities, and insurance requirements. •Assist hotel staff in handling of unusual guest or employee problems, such as, but not limited to, disorderly conduct, thefts, suicides, bomb threats, employee or guest accidents, fire or safety hazards, robberies, terrorist activities, civil disturbances power of elevator failures, medical assistance, and natural disasters. •Select, train, schedule, discipline, and direct security personnel in all aspects of security policies and procedures. •Keep abreast of developments within the hotel and community as they relate to security as well as act as a liaison with local law-enforcement agencies. •Remain informed of current Federal and local laws and regulations as they relate to the hotel, particularly in areas of guest, patron, and employee rights. Salary commencing at $38,000.00 per annum based on education and experience Belongers only need apply. COST CONTROL MANAGER Job Responsibilities • Direct and coordinate the activities of the cost control department • Organize the cost controlling system • Organize the store and receiving system • Manage F&B cost function • Track record of all cost issues • Maintain standard of all responsible areas • Coordinate with all departments for inventory • Develop cost report for Chief Accountant • Support cost information for all concern departments upon request Job Requirements • Five years’ experience in food and beverage accounting. • Excellent processing experience with hotel software, Opera, Adaco and Dataplus Accounting System. • Excellent knowledge in computer with experience with Microsoft software excels. The salary for this position is $35,000 per annum based on experience. Belongers only need apply. FOOD AND BEVERAGE OUTLET MANAGER Reporting to the General Manager of the property. Responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following: Responsibilities: •Lead and manage the day to day operations of the Food & Beverage Division ensuring all service standards are followed. •Drive innovative promotions, menus and concepts; creating a destination of choice for both Hotel and external guests. •Lead and support all Food & Beverage departments in the achievement of their financial and operational targets. •Prepare annual budgets and administer in a fiscally responsible manner. •Implement effective control of food, beverage, labour and operating expenses
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throughout the F&B division. • Assist in the preparation of the annual strategic plan and achieve the goals and targets therein. • Ensure the implementation of standards in guest service and constantly seek out ways to improve product and service as well as increase volumes and profits. Requirements: • Minimum of 5 years of previous Food and Beverage international experience in a senior leadership role • University/College degree • Computer literate in Microsoft Window applications required • Strong interpersonal and problem solving abilities • Highly responsible & reliable with the ability to work well under pressure in a fast paced environment Salary commencing at $36,000.00 per annum based on education and experience Belongers only need apply. COMPUTER PROGRAMMER & IT SPECIALIST To provide support analysis and management and assist in the planning, developing, installing, configuring, maintaining and supporting hardware, software and communication systems in order to maintain the stable operation of the information systems and networks of our Hospitality Group. Job Description: •Assist in analysing the IT needs of the Group and determining the immediate and long-range software and hardware requirements. •Maintain, secure, troubleshoot and administer Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), Internet (Cable/DSL/Wi-Fi connection) and IPTV •Maintain & evaluate computer hardware, communication equipment, networking software, operating system and application software. •Network administration and management. •Maintain control records, implement & secure network traffic and optimize server performance. •Perform and ensure System/Data back-ups and its recovery operations; •Provide problem solving services and assist network users on system & software such as PMS, POS Software and Telephone Billing System. •Interact and negotiate with vendors, outsourcers and contractors to seek products and services. •Provide on-call technical support. •Follow all safety policies Requirements: •Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or Information Technology •5 plus years Working Experience in IT •Knowledge of VLAN and switch management technology •Strong customer service orientation •Microsoft Server Administrator, Microsoft Exchange and Microsoft SharePoint •Knowledge of Apple Macintosh Operating System •Knowledge of IQWare and/or Visual One would be a distinct advantage •Keen attention to details •Highly self-motivated and directed Salary entry point is $31,000 per annum and will commensurate with qualifications and experience. FOOD & BEVERAGE SERVERS RESPONSIBILITIES Responsible for welcoming and greeting guests with a worm friendly smile, inform guest of specials and menu changes, makes suggestions and answer questions regarding food, beverages, and service; processes’ guests orders and ensures all items are prepared properly and in a timely manner, communicates with kitchen staff to ensure guest satisfaction with the food and service; prepares guest checks that itemize and total meal costs and sales tax and accepts payment. Salary commencing at $7.00 - $9.00 per hour. Belongers only need apply COMMIE LINE COOK RESPONSIBILITIES To prepare hot foods on range and or grill and ensure consistent quality following recipe cards and production standards; must be knowledgeable of food preparation and preparation methods, understand sanitary food handling techniques and knowledge of the safe operation of kitchen equipment. Salary Scale: $8.00 - $10.00 per hour. Belongers only need apply LABOURER RESPONSIBILITIES To assist in maintaining the grounds. Must be able to lift 50lbs., bend, and stand for long periods of time. Must be able to speak English. Salary Scale: $6.50 - $7.50 per hour. Belongers only need apply Interested persons may contact out Corporate HR department office or by submitting your resume with qualifications and experience to: hr@wihl.com Please also submit a copy of your completed application to our labour department. Closing date May 4th, 2019
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
LOCAL NEWS
Highlight of Grace Bay Resorts Foundation Autism Gala T
he Grace Bay Resorts Foundation recently hosted a spectacular Gala event in aid of the Hope Autism Classroom. The event was held at Point Grace Resort on Saturday, April 13th, where over 130 persons came out to support a great cause. Actresses and Autism Awareness
Advocates Holly Robinson and Kim fields were the special hosts for the sold out event. ` In attendance as representatives from the Ministry of Education, Mr. Wesley Clerveaux who brought remarks on behalf of the Minister of Education who had to travel unexpectedly.
Also in attendance were sponsors Price Waterhouse Coopers, Gilley’s Enterprises, InterCaribbean, Turks and Caicos Tourist Board, to name a few. Remarks were also brought by Mark Durliat, along with Nikheel Advani and Hope Foundation founder, Almando Rigby.
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
LOCAL NEWS
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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LOCAL NEWS
27th Annual Kite Flying Competition in Grand Turk T
he Turks & Caicos Tourist Board hosted its 27th annual Kite Flying Competition in Grand Turk on April 13, 2019. The event, which was hosted on Front Street, featured Easter egg hunts, sand castle building competition and a domino tournament and was well attended by both residents and visitors in the nation’s capital. Patrons enjoyed a fun filled family day and were treated to live music by Nish & The Boys and local treats by onsite restaurant vendors. The following winners emerged from the festivities: The Smallest Kite: 1st Place - Mr. Gordon Wilson / 2nd Place - Makai Wilson / 3rd Place - Taurain James Jnr. The Largest Kite: 1st Place - Island Tram / 2nd Place - Earlin Grant. Most Artistic Kite: 1st Place - Rasheem
Astwood / 2nd Place – Valrianna Selver / 3rd Place - Lion James & Company. Best Traditional Kite (KopyJink): 1st Place- Valjonique Selver / 2nd Place – Lola James / 3rd Place - Decardo Williams. Best Company Kite: 1st Place – Island Tram Company / 2nd Place - TJ’s Construction. Best Mommy & Me Kite: 1st Place – Kai Simmons / 2nd Place – Teresa Samuels. Best Daddy & Me Kite: 1st Place - Gordon Wilson & Makai Wilson / 2nd Place - Terez James & Lion James. Domino Tournament: 1st Place Sonnie Williams & Preston Penn / 2nd Place- Fresh & Company and Sand Castle Building Competition Winners: Wesler / Preshawn Penn / Trenelle & Tamia Simmons. Deputy Director of Tourism Mary Lightbourne told The SUN, “As usual we received tremendous support from the
Grand Turk community. The Tourist Board’s Kite Flying Competition is a signature community tradition and highly anticipated event. We were unable to host the event last year so we knew that this year had to be bigger and better. We would like to extend our profound thanks to our sponsors who assisted us in making the event enjoyable and memorable for all - Sand Bar, Flow, Durham’s Gas Station, B&T Enterprise, Grand Turk Liquor Store and Bohio Dive Resort.” The fun continues as the Turks & Caicos Tourist Board hosts the Kite Flying Competition in Providenciales and South Caicos on April 22nd from 10am to 6pm at the Kids Park and an Easter Eggstravaganza in North Caicos on April 27th from 10am to 5pm at Horse Stable Beach.
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
LOCAL NEWS
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APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
ENTERTAINMENT
Michael Jackson estate hits back at ‘Leaving Neverland’ The co-executor of Michael Jackson’s estate said Tuesday that he’s confident the late superstar’s supporters will be able to protect his legacy in the wake of an HBO documentary featuring the disturbing stories of two men who say Jackson sexually abused them as boys. Longtime entertainment attorney John Branca called the documentary a one-sided “madefor-TV-movie” and accused the film’s subjects of being motivated by money. Branca acknowledged that Jackson’s estate has faced “challenges” since the documentary’s release, but said he doesn’t believe there will be a long-term impact. “People love Michael. They love Michael’s music for sure. And if the investigation is effective, which I think it will be, in showing that there is severe doubt about what may or may not have happened, we will be back to people feeling ‘It’s OK to say I like Michael,’” Branca said on a panel hosted by the Harvard Institute of Politics. It’s the latest attack by Jackson’s estate against “Leaving Neverland,” featuring Wade Robson and James Safechuck. The estate has slammed filmmakers for not interviewing any of Jackson’s family members or other defenders, who insist the singer never molested a
Jay-Z to perform at newly renovated Webster Hall in NYC
Pop star Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley, behind him at left, walk with children that were invited guests at his Neverland Ranch home in Santa Ynez, Calif child. The film’s director, Dan Reed, has repeatedly defended the film. Robson and Safechucks’s accusations are not new, but have put Jackson’s legacy under fresh scrutiny amid the #MeToo movement. A lawyer for the men said Tuesday that Branca and lawyers for Jackson’s estate are seeking to discredit the singer’s accusers out of their own financial interest. “Their recent comments are just part and parcel of the same thing they’ve been doing for years, which is protect the estate so they can continue to profit off of it,”
Rihanna’s Dad Denies Exploiting His Famous Daughter in Nasty Family Legal Battle
Rihanna and her dad Ronald Fenty Rihanna’s dad is firing back at his pop star daughter’s lawsuit after she accused him of trying to get rich off her image without permission. According to court documents obtained by The Blast, Ronald Fenty and his company claim they did not exploit Rihanna’s image and believe she has suffered no damages as a result of him trying to run his own business. Earlier this year, Rihanna sued her father, Ronald Fenty, and his company, Fenty Entertainment, accusing them of exploiting her name without permission. She claimed that her dad and another man named created an entertainment company with her last name and have been soliciting business acting as agents of the singer. Ronald, who also has the last name Fenty, believes he has every right to use the name and doesn’t need his daughter’s permission on such matters. “Defendants deny that their use of “Fenty” requires authorization from Plaintiffs,” the document reads. Rihanna’s father now wants the lawsuit dismissed right away and believes he owes his daughter no money or caused any damage. The singer has discussed her rocky relationship with her father in the past, claiming she witnessed Ronald abusing her mom when she was a child. She told Oprah that she once witnessed her mother suffer a broken nose at the hands of her father.
attorney Vince Finaldi said. The men first came forward with their stories years earlier in lawsuits. Both of them had previously denied the singer sexually abused them, but said having their own children and Jackson’s 2009 death forced them to face the truth. Their lawsuits were dismissed for technical reasons and their appeals are expected to be argued this summer. Jackson, who was cleared in 2005 of charges that he molested another boy, acknowledged that he befriended numerous children, including some he invited into his bed, but denied molesting any.
Rapper Jay-Z Jay-Z will help re-open the newly renovated Webster Hall concert venue in New York City with a performance next week. Tickets for the April 26 show go on sale Friday. It will be Jay-Z’s first time performing at the venue located in Manhattan’s East Village. Webster Hall has operated as a venue since 1886. Others set to perform there include Patti Smith and Her Band, Rosalia, MGMT, Empire of the Sun, Old Dominion and Chromeo. The concert hall says in a press release that the recent renovation “aims to preserve the iconic features of the venue, while modernizing it to meet today’s entertainment and guest experience standards.”
Beyoncé Surprises With a Live Album to Go With Her Netflix Documentary When it comes to Beyoncé releases, there is usually an element of surprise. The singer — who perfected the secret album drop in 2013, and has since toyed with the tactic for releases like “Lemonade” and “Everything Is Love,” with her husband Jay-Z — did it again in the early morning hours Wednesday, one-upping the arrival of her own Netflix documentary, “Homecoming,” with a previously unannounced live-album version of the same concert. Both the film and the album, also titled “Homecoming,” capture Beyoncé’s performance at last year’s Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, in which the Beyoncé announced a Netflix documentary called “Homecoming” about her 2018 Coachella singer — the first black woman to performance headline the event — was backed by dozens of dancers and an elaborate marching band for a set by Beyoncé,” features footage from “So Much Damn Swag” and “The that nodded to the musical legacy rehearsals and quieter backstage Bzzzz Drumline.” She also included moments — “the emotional road a rendition of the hymn “Lift Every of historically black colleges. “There’s not likely to be from creative concept to cultural Voice and Sing,” a song often referred to as the black national a more meaningful, absorbing, movement,” Netflix said. The “Homecoming” album anthem. forceful and radical performance While some recent Beyoncé by an American musician this year, is a more straightforward recreation or any year soon,” the critic Jon of the concert that became known releases have been available, at Caramanica wrote of the show in as Beychella. It breaks the more least for a time, only on Tidal, the The New York Times. “It was rich than two-hour performance into 40 streaming service owned by Jay-Z, with history, potently political and tracks, many of which are packed the live album was released across visually grand. By turns uproarious, with multiple musical references all major streaming platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify and rowdy, and lush. A gobsmacking and sections of other songs. Beyoncé’s set list, which Google Play. marvel of choreography and varied slightly over the two Since Coachella, Beyoncé musical direction.” Now, the concert — which Coachella performances, included has been largely quiet professionally, was live-streamed at the time and solo hits like “Get Me Bodied,” though she toured with Jay-Z last recreated for Coachella’s second “Baby Boy” and “Formation,” the summer, surprising fans with the collaborative effort weekend, but has existed only in Destiny’s Child songs “Say My nine-track bootleg form since — has been Name” and “Soldier” (with her “Everything Is Love” along the way. preserved for history in multiple former group mates Kelly Rowland She has not announced a follow-up. mediums. The documentary, a and Michelle Williams) and various Netflix exclusive billed as “a film interludes with titles here such as
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
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HEALTHY
LIFESTYLE In some states, sexting could land teens in jail for a long time Sexting - the texting of sexual images - is increasingly common among teens, but in nearly half the U.S. the practice may hold an unexpected danger: in 23 states, sexting between teens is considered child pornography, which could potentially result in a 20-year prison term and mandatory registration as a sex offender, a new report warns. More than a quarter of teens say they have received a sext and nearly 15 percent say they have sent a sext, researchers report in Pediatrics. The prevalence of sexting has been on the rise as more and more teens acquire smart phones, the authors noted. “Sexting is common among teenagers,” said Dr. Vic Strasburger, a distinguished professor of pediatrics emeritus at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine and author of the forthcoming book, “The Death of Childhood: Reinventing the Joy of Growing Up.” And while sexting may not be a smart choice, many assume it’s private and aren’t considering the possibility that “your partner may send the sext to 100 of his or her closest friends,” Strasburger said. And parents need to realize that teens, with their unfinished brains, will not always be making the smartest choices, he added. “It’s not a great idea if your son or daughter wants to do it, but it shouldn’t land them in jail for 20 years and labeled as a sex offender,” Strasburger said. “You would think that state legislatures would agree with that, but unfortunately 23 don’t.” In a review of recent studies on sexting, Strasburger described a meta-analysis that found 15 percent of teens had sent a sext, 27 percent had received a sext and 12 percent had forwarded a sext without consent. A more recent study, which surveyed 6,021 high school students, found that 29 percent were engaged in consensual sexting. All of that should be downright scary information for parents living in one of the 23 states, where teens can be prosecuted with child pornography statutes, While the best solution would be to change the laws, that will take time, Strasburger said. In the meantime, parents need to talk with their teens, he added. “Parents need to understand that these days there’s no longer the need for THE BIG TALK,” Strasburger said. “There is a desperate need for 50 small talks. When you’re watching TV with your teen and a sexy scene comes on, ask your teen why they think the characters are jumping into bed with one another. If you’re watching a golf tournament and you keep seeing ads for Cialis, ask your teenage son why he thinks they are advertising this product so much during golf.”
U.S. measles cases surge nearly 20 percent in early April, CDC says The number of confirmed cases of measles in the United States this year jumped by nearly 20 percent in the week ended April 11, in the country’s second-worst outbreak in nearly two decades, federal health officials reported on Monday. As of April 11, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recorded 555 cases of the disease since the beginning of the year, up from 465 cases confirmed by April 4. The cases were found in 20 states spanning the country. The measles virus is highly contagious and can lead to complications and death, particularly in children. The CDC report did not say whether there have been any fatalities. The U.S. outbreak is part of a worldwide rise. The World Health Organization reported on Monday that global cases had risen nearly four-fold in the first quarter of 2019 to 112,163 compared with the same period last year. A growing and vocal fringe of parents in the United States oppose vaccines believing, contrary to scientific evidence, that ingredients in them can cause autism or other disorders. Five parents filed a lawsuit with the New York State court against the city’s health department on Monday, requesting a halt to emergency orders requiring the measles vaccine on the grounds that it goes against their religious beliefs.
A sign warning people of measles in the ultra-Orthodox Jewish community of Williamsbur “There is insufficient evidence of a measles epidemic or dangerous outbreak to justify the respondents’ extraordinary measures, including forced vaccination,” said the lawsuit, identifying the parents only by their initials. The city’s Department of Health did not respond to requests for comment. New York City has confirmed 329 cases of measles since October, including 44 since last week’s emergency order, according to local health officials, the large majority among children of the Orthodox Jewish communities in Brooklyn. Six of the additional 44 cases are newly diagnosed, while the other 38 are recently discovered, the New York health department said. Mayor Bill de Blasio
declared the city’s outbreak a public health emergency last week and ordered unvaccinated people in the affected parts of Brooklyn to get the vaccine or face a fine. It is the worst outbreak seen in the city since 1991, the mayor said. Several people had to be hospitalized, but no fatalities had been reported as of last week. New York health officials said the Brooklyn outbreak was caused by an unvaccinated child returning from a trip to Israel, which is also grappling with an outbreak. Another outbreak has hit Orthodox Jewish families in New York’s Rockland County. Officials there banned children not vaccinated against measles from public spaces last month. A state judge overturned the order, but Rockland is appealing that decision.
Cannabis users may need more anesthesia for surgery People who regularly use cannabis may need more than twice the usual dose of anesthesia for surgery, a U.S. study suggests. As a growing number of U.S. states legalize marijuana for medical and recreational use, more patients who use the drug are showing up in operating rooms across the country. To get a clearer picture of how cannabis impacts the effectiveness of different types of anesthesia, researchers studied 250 patients who had minimally invasive procedures requiring anesthesia in Colorado, where recreational marijuana use is legal. Twenty-five patients, or 10 percent, said they regularly used cannabis. Compared to other patients, cannabis users needed more than twice as much of the anesthetic propofol, the study found. Cannabis users also needed 14 percent more of the analgesic fentanyl and 20 percent more of the sedative midazolam. “Cannabis users cannot assume that their use will have no effects on their medical care,” said lead study author Dr. Mark Twardowski of Western Medical Associates in Grand Junction, Colorado. “Clearly the fact that use affects the effectiveness of these three medicines certainly raises
A Cannabis plant myriad questions about potential effects on other medications (pain medicines, anxiety medicines etc.),” Twardowski said by email. “Because cannabis has such a long life in the body, it may take months to ameliorate the effect,” Twardowski said. “Patients absolutely need to inform their providers about cannabis use prior to any procedure.” Most of the patients in the study underwent colonoscopies. More research is needed to confirm these preliminary results in a larger population of cannabis
users and in patients undergoing a wider variety of surgeries, the study authors note. One limitation of the study is the possibility that some cannabis users might not have disclosed this, leaving this information out of the medical records researchers used for their analysis. Even though recreational marijuana is legal where the study was done, stigma may have stopped some people from reporting it, researchers note in the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association. But the results still suggest that doctors need to consider cannabis use when planning patient care and assessing medication needs, the study team writes. “There is only a problem if patients do not tell their doctors that they are consuming cannabis and if doctors do not know the consequences of cannabis use for anesthesia,” said Dr. Winfried Hauser of Klinikum Saarbrucken in Germany. “Most probably, the number of patients which require increased dosages of anesthetics because of recreational and / or medical use of cannabis will increase due to the legalization of medical or recreational marijuana,” Hauser, who wasn’t involved in the study, said by email.
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• May perform other duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor or any other person authorized to give instructions or assignments • Any other duty deemed appropriate and consistent with the position, professional qualification and skill set as directed by the Chief Executive Officer
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
POSITION SUMMARY: The Chief Financial Officer is responsible for directing the fiscal functions of the NHIB in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards and any other financial management techniques and practices appropriate within the health and insurance industry. MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Plan, develop, organize, implement, direct and evaluate the NHIB’s fiscal function and performance. • Participate in the development of the company’s plans and programs as a strategic partner. • Evaluate and advise on the impact of long-range planning and the introduction of new programs/strategies • Provide timely and accurate analysis of budgets, financial reports and financial trends in order to assist the CEO and the Board in performing their responsibilities. • Develop, implement and enforce financial policies and procedures that will improve the overall operation, efficiency and effectiveness of the company. • Provide technical financial knowledge and advice to others within the financial discipline. • May perform other duties as assigned by the CEO or any other person authorized to give instructions or assignments. • Lead the timely completion of the financial statement audit process. • Assist in the completion of key accounting functions such as reconciliations, manage and supervise the finance, compliance and billing teams. MINIMUM QUALIFICATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: • Candidates should have a Master’s degree in Accounting or equivalent combination of education and experience • Preferably with professional qualification as a CPA or any equivalent accounting designation. • At least 7 years of experience in a senior finance management role is a must. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: • Experienced financial leader with appropriate industry experience, strong supervisory and mentoring skills, high ethical standards, exceptional analytical and problem solving, well organized and self-directed, excellent written/verbal communication, speak, read and write in excellent English language, proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel Spreadsheets and Pivot Tables, and Accounting software packages, effective time management skills. • Solid understanding of international financial reporting standards • Solid understanding of the NHIB Ordinance and Regulations • Experience in healthcare financing • Training in International Accounting Standards for Social Security • Experience In Microsoft Dynamics • Team worker who is willing to take a hands-on approach to the role. SALARY Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience scale $82,200 to $89,310.00 per annum. MEDICAL DIRECTOR POSITION SUMMARY: This is a managerial position, which has departmental wide responsibility for activities and direction of the Operations department and NHIP Emergency Overseas Treatment Programme; Providing technical leadership to the Insurance Operations team, the Medical Officer formulates policies and procedures to enhance the impact of the department; monitors patients overseas to assess their progress and report to the CEO; verify the eligibility of all claims, ensure staff is properly supervised and trained, customer concerns addressed; and ensures appropriate cost efficient health care services with best medical practices in place. MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Manages the medical aspects of the NHIP Emergency Overseas Treatment Programme; • Manages all aspects of the Operations Department inclusive of all staff assigned to the department; • Manages and develops the Operations Department Budget with the view of ensuring that the Department expenditure remains within or below the budgeted ranges; • Develops policies, procedures, standards and controls for effective management of the Operations Department • Collection of statistics forms ICL (the hospitals) and the private providers as required by management and the actuary • Liaises with the NIB to identify number of employment injury and occupational disease cases. • Enforces cost-reduction strategies and recommends initiatives in the management of patient’s care; • Prepares Quarterly Performance Reports and Trend Analysis • Recommends and monitors systems and procedures to facilitate achieving of objectives within the area of responsibility; • Verifies and signs-off on overseas provider claims in order to ensure veracity of claims as well as conducts value for money audits; • Advises on the adjudication of claims by beneficiaries in special circumstances, outside the scope of usual and customary benefits, including overseas claims • Makes recommendations to the Board on policy decisions such as but not limited to reimbursement and accreditation standards in line with the Health Practitioners Board or other authorized Agency. • Conducts sample surveys of health care providers and facilities to derive baseline data on the availability and quality of services as well as the capacity and readiness to meet the demands of the NHIB; • Coordinates activities and provides advice to the NHIB team charged with the specification and costing of the service benefit package and in the development of provider payment systems; • Convenes and takes the lead in meetings and other mechanisms aimed at defining criteria for inclusion in the NHIB provider network, as well as developing norms and protocols for quality assurance utilization reviews, access to overseas care, and modifications (inclusion and exclusion) of items in the benefit package; • Collaborates with other members on the NHIB team in the design and implementation of activities related to accreditation of health providers; • Collaborates with other members of the NHIB team in defining and developing contractual agreements with local and overseas providers for services within the benefit package; • Assists in the development of detailed terms of reference and procedures for the activities of the NHIB Medical Review Committee.
MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED: • Principles, practices and techniques of medical case management • Principles and practices of strategic, long-term business planning • Principles and practices of effective management and supervision • Good Problem-Solving Skills • Human Relations • Strong written and oral skills including computer literacy in the main processing, spreadsheet and presentation graphics programmes. QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE: • Medical Doctor with at least 7 years’ experience; full time practitioner in primary care and hospital settings with the necessary competencies to effectively respond to the challenges of the job. • Business post graduate Degree • Business Management Experience • Knowledge of the NHIB Ordinance and Regulations • Current (Good Standing) Registration with TCI Health Practitioners Board • Experience with health insurance operations such as member of medical review panel will be an asset. Salary Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience scale $82,200 to $89,310.00 per annum. OFFICE ATTENDANT (Providenciales) POSITION SUMMARY: To ensure that the National Health Insurance Board’s offices, bathrooms, and kitchens are kept in a clean and orderly condition. This position requires the constant monitoring of cleanliness to ensure company standards are maintained. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Provide high-quality cleaning service, which includes tasks such as mopping, dusting, emptying bins, and polishing surfaces, to ensure the level of cleanliness conforms to the environmental health standards are always maintained. Distribute correspondence as required, complete errands on behalf of the office, assist with the preparation of room for meetings, prepare and serve refreshments when required, perform daily cleaning duties to ensure the office is clean and safe for staff and perform any related duties assigned from time to time. • Dust/polish all surfaces including equipment • Wipe all surfaces • Washes windows • Cleans and disinfects toilets and replenishes supplies such as toilet paper, soap, and paper towels • Responds to urgent situations, such as spills, that require quick action • Maintain appropriate stock of cleaning supplies and equipment • Mixes liquids and solvents from basic materials to create effective cleaning supplies • Operates and maintains equipment such as vacuums and floor cleaners • Collects and removes trash from the building and/or space • Notifies management when major repairs, including structural issues or highly skilled tasks, are required • Maintains a high level of security in a building, such as locking doors, storing keys, and using access codes for restricted areas and rooms • Performs outdoor upkeep as necessary, including maintaining entrances and walkways • Typically works when facilities are closed to the public or during low traffic time periods SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS • Previous experience of cleaning, including the use of chemicals and using cleaning machinery safely • Ability to handle heavy equipment and machinery used in cleaning • Ability to walk, bend, push, pull and lift repetitively during working hours • Knowledge of cleaning chemicals, proper storage and disposal methods • Excellent communication skills and the ability to work as a team • Excellent organizational skills a must • Self-motivation and the ability to identify and complete needed tasks without direct supervision SPECIAL FEATURES OF THE JOB: Requires walking and extensive use of hands, pushing, bending, lifting, twisting, standing, reaching, kneeling and carrying heavy items. o Physical Demands • Lifting: Under 20lbs 50% of work time • Carrying: Over 25lbs 10% of work time • Pulling: Over 20lbs 50% of work time • Work Environment: Exposure to chemicals COMPETENCIES AND SKILLS REQUIRED: This position requires knowledge of health and hygiene requirements, ability to understand basic materials, must have an eye for details, maintain complete knowledge of correct maintenance and use of equipment, ability to understand and follow simple written instructions and basic time management skills. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Primary level education, at least (2) years of experience in a similar position. These positions are currently held by expatriate workers. After submitting application to National Health Insurance Board Human Resource department, Qualified Belongers may also submit a copy of their applications to the Commissioner of Labour & Immigration Board. SALARY: Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience scale $6.25 to $9.25 per hour All Applications should be addressed to: Sheena Smith-Yip National Health Insurance Board Salt Mills Plaza Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands British West Indies Email: recruitment@tcinhip.tc Please ensure the application clearly demonstrates how you meet the noted qualifications as applicants will be screened based on the information provided. We would like to thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those who are selected for an interview will be contacted. Deadline for submission is May 4, 2019
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
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• Must be punctual and have an excellent attendance track record • Flexibility as a team player • Willing to work outdoors • Posses an outgoing and pleasant personality Reports to: Food and Beverage Manager Compensation package: • $6.25 per hour, paid fortnightly
Chukka Caribbean Adventures (TCI) Ltd is about playtime! It’s about fun, laughter and a passion for life. Every single member of the CHUKKA team in Jamaica, Belize and Turks & Caicos contributes to helping their guests play; they get to wow them at every turn with all that the Caribbean has to offer. Chukka is always looking for new talent to add to our dynamic team. ALL SUCCESSFUL APPLICANTS MUST: • Be at least 21 years old. • Be well spoken in English. • Possess excellent interpersonal & written communication skills. • Trustworthy & Reliable disposition with a clean criminal record. • Positive & disciplined work attitude in a customer service oriented business. • Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including weekends, public holidays as necessary to meet the challenging needs of cruise ship schedules and/or reasonable needs of the business. See below opportunities currently available in GRAND TURK: ZIPLINE CANOPY GUIDE • Document accurately all incidents and accidents on tour. Information must be communicated to the Location Manager immediately. • Ensure that all tour reports are completed properly and checked off daily. • Go through the tour at least three times per week. • Complete periodic inventory of resources and equipment. • Ensure that maintenance schedules are in place, adopted and up-to-date. • All equipment and tools used in the operations are properly functional. • Client Satisfaction Ratings are maintained above target 85%. Minimum Requirements: • One year experience in a related position • CPR and First Aid • Ability to work under pressure • Ability to handle complaint • Must have no fear of heights Reports to: Operation Manager Compensation package: • $6.25 per hour, paid fortnightly Role currently held by work permit holder BOAT CAPTAIN • Manage day to day operations of the tour including maintenance and efficient use of Human Resources • Manage the daily operational needs inclusive of tour needs, client needs • Ensure that the team is motivated, empowered and performing at an optimal level Minimum Requirements: • Valid Masters License (STCW Grades 1-5) or Yacht masters license (RYCA or equivalent) • At least 5 year experience working in the Cruise Industry with emphasis on snorkeling and other water based tours. • Must be trained and certified in Lifeguard Rescue, CPR and First Aid • Full knowledge of man over board procedures, fire at sea, abandon ship and all related safety drills and procedure. • Knowledge of maintenance and upkeep of outboard engines and inboard engines • Knowledge of basic navigation and Rules of the Road is an asset. Reports to: Operations Manager Compensation package: • $8.50 per hour, paid fortnightly Role currently held by work permit holder LIFEGUARD/BOAT CREW • Good verbal and written communication skills • Ability to work under pressure • Ability to use initiative • Provide clients with accurate tour information • Ensure clients adhere to safety guidelines • Efficiently dispatch clients as per the tour in which one is a part of • Work with other crew members to ensure sanitation of vessel is maintained • Work with other team members to ensure the vessel is adequately prepared for tour execution Minimum Requirements: • Have a minimum of 3 years experience working on boats as a lifeguard or boat crew • Have training or certificate in Lifeguard/CPR • Enjoy marine environment and have a passion for people • Must be punctual and have an excellent attendance track record • Flexibility as a team player Reports to: Boat Captain/Team Lead Compensation package: • $6.25 per hour, paid fortnightly Role currently held by work permit holder BARTENDERS • Prepare and sell menu item beverages in a fun and creative way • Set up and break down bar service area with all necessary equipment, bar beverages • Maintain cleanliness of work station an immediate environs at all times • Complete end of day sales reconciliation reports and closing stock • Advise Food and Beverage Manager in a timely manner of items that are at par or just below par for reorder • Participate in end of year stock audit exercise Minimum Requirements • Minimum 6 months experience in a similar role • Certification in Mixology a plus! • Possess excellent written and oral communication
SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHY SUPERVISOR • Ensure that Photos Department meets daily revenue and costs targets • Manage guest experience when purchasing photos at the end of tour(s) • Troubleshoot technical software challenges • Ensure department is stocked with all required supplies • Inventory of equipment is properly maintained • Company procedure, policies and practices are always observed Minimum Requirements: • Be able work outdoors • Two years’ experience in retail sales • Excellent computer and technical skills • Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Excels at operating in a fast pace and multi-tasking environment Reports to: • On Property Revenue Manager Compensation package: • $2000 per month Role currently held by work permit holder DRIVER • Safely transfer clients and guides from tour points to base in a timely manner. • Ensure that safety procedures are adhered to by all during transfer such as wearing seatbelts. • Report all accidents and incidents to the Operations Manager. Ensure that accurate accident reports are completed. Observe and abide by all road rules to ensure safety at all times. • Assist with the pick-up and drop off of supplies. • On tour site, conduct orientation with clients with tour facts. • Assist in tour areas between client transfers • Abide by local speed limits Minimum Requirements: • Have a minimum of 2 years as a driver. • Must possess pleasant and hospitable personality • Flexibility as a team player • Ability to take initiative and work under pressure. • Certificate in Defensive Driving an asset • Must be punctual and have an excellent attendance track record • Must possess Public Passenger license Reports to: Operations Manager Compensation package: • $7.00 per hour, paid fortnightly BEACH ATTENDANT • Mount beach umbrellas and cushions on beach chairs on the beach • Attend to guest’s food and bar needs. • Keep beach free of debris before during and after business hours. • Ensure trash receptacles are emptied frequently and surrounding areas kept sanitary • Beach shower areas are kept clear from any obstacles • Assist with any heavy lifting and movement of equipment or supplies needed for operational functionality • Ensure sand is combed each day. Minimum Requirements: • Punctual • Willing and able to work in a face paced service environment • Posses an outgoing and pleasant personality • Exercise flexibility in being able to be of assistance in wherever areas needed. Reports to: On-Property Revenue Manager Compensation package: • $6.25 per hour, paid fortnightly SENIOR CAPTAIN OF OPERATIONS • Ability to train and guide Captains and crew in marine best practices. • Create and update Standard Operating Procedures for tours • Create and update Risk Assessment data for tours • Conduct safety training for all tours • Develop and maintain medical screening processes for all tours • Tour flow management for all aqua related tours Minimum Requirements: • Minimum age 35 years • Valid Masters License (STCW Grades 1) or Yacht masters license (RYCA or equivalent) • At least 10year experience working in the Cruise Industry with emphasis on snorkeling and other water-based tours. • Must be trained and certified in Lifeguard Rescue, CPR and First Aid • Full knowledge of man over board procedures, fire at sea, abandon ship and all related safety drills and procedure. • Knowledge of maintenance and upkeep of outboard engines and inboard engines • Knowledge of basic navigation and Rules of the Road is an asset. • Ability to work under pressure Reports to: Country Manager Compensation package: • $3296.00 per month Role currently held by work permit holder Turks and Caicos Islanders applications will be given preference
Deadline for submissions is April 26, 2019
Applications along with CVs/ Resume’ may be submitted via Email to: gtadmin@chukka.com, please place the desired position in the subject line or deliver to the below address: CHUKKA HUMAN RESOURCES CHUKKA CARIBBEAN ADVENTURES (TCI) LTD South Base Lyndon Gardiner Boulevard Grand Turk, TCI
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HAB LIMITED HAB Limited is seeking a suitably qualified individual to fill the following position. Only candidates who meet the minimum requirements will be considered. RESORT FINANCE MANAGER Job Description •Responsible for all aspects of Resort and Strata Corporation accounting up to production of Trial Balance. •All Balance Sheet reconciliations, including bank, credit card accounts and supplier statements. •Reconciliation of Sales Reports and Accounts Receivable and supervision of Accounts Payable processing and Payroll. •Reconciliation and preparation of bank deposits. •Payment of purchase invoices and raising of cheques as applicable. •Preparation of Strata invoices/statements and corresponding with owners regarding statement queries. •Preparation and processing of weekly/monthly payroll and Social Security returns •Preparation and processing of monthly Accommodation Tax returns •Preparation and processing of monthly Service Charge payments Requirements •Should have at least (ten) 10 years experience in an Accounts Office. •Must hold a minimum of a Degree in Accountancy. •Must be proficient in MS Office application and Quickbooks. •Must have a good understanding of Accounting Procedures. •Work with minimal supervision. The salary range for this position is $30,000 - $41,000.00 per annum, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
FITNESS AND BOXING STUDIO GENERAL MANAGER/TRAINER REQUIRED An immediate opening for a GENERAL MANAGER/LEAD TRAINER in a fitness and boxing studio situated on Bay Road, Blue Hills, Providenciales has become available. OVERVIEW: Responsible for teaching fitness training and boxing classes and managing the business of the studio, from demand generation to financial optimization. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 1.Coach boxing and fitness training classes 6 days per week or as often as there is demand within reason. 2.Direct and monitor all daily operations of the studio. 3.Generate new and foster repeat clients based on their satisfaction with coaching style and the maintenance/management of the studio. 4.Directly supervise, develop, maintain and support individual performance and group dynamics of all employees of the studio. 5.Work with all key stakeholders including investors and clients. 6.Optimize profitability and balance that with optimizing service excellence through the strategic plans developed and policies created and managed daily. 7.Ensure equipment is properly maintained, an annual capital expenditure budget is built and upheld and condition of the studio is kept in top shape. 8.Respond in courteous, professional and prompt manner in order to resolve all guest and staff difficulties. 9.Perform community outreach and organize such efforts on a large scale. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 1.A minimum of 6 years of experience in industries providing service to guests and clients. 2.A minimum of 2 years of boxing coaching experience and some on the ring experience. 3.Experience working in service provision internationally as well as within TCI. 4.A 4 year degree from an accredited university. 5.A minimum of 5 years of expertise coaching boxing. 6.Ability to train, motivate, evaluate, mentor and guide employees and managers to meet desired results. 7.Ability to maintain excellent relations with staff. 8.Knowledge of pricing and marketing strategies. 9.Ability to converse calmly with irate guests, superiors and subordinates in sometimes intense emotional situations, work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines
Interested applicants should submit applications to: Veronica Rigby, HAB Limited, 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.
WORK HOURS: Employee will be required to work day and evening shifts, both weekdays and weekends as required along with public holidays, including Festive.
Interested Belongers must also submit copies of their application to the Commissioner of Labour & Work Permit Board Zone 2. Position currently held by a work permit holder. Closing date for application is April 29th, 2019.
APPLICATIONS Are invited which should include a detailed resume demonstrating strong experience in all of the above areas. References will be required if shortlisted. Please submit no later than May 4th, 2019 to Misick & Stanbrook, Email: marsha@misickstanbrook.tc Tel.: (649) 946-4732
SALARY: $1,500.00 per month plus potential for commissions.
Come and join our winning team at Seven Star Resort & Spa The following positions are currently available Chef de Partie/ Demi Chef de Partie The Chef de Partie is responsible for running a specific section of the kitchen. The chef manages a small team of workers, which are responsible for keeping organized so that meals go out on time and the work area remains clean and orderly. Requirements: •5 to 15 culinary experiences in a five star hotel/resort •Knowledgeable in international cuisine such as Japanese and other Asian dishes •HACCP knowledge, self-motivated and passion for hospitality and cooking •Excellent palate and attention to detail Duties and Responsibilities: •To work and lead the kitchen team •Execute cooking to the expected high standard quickly and efficiently •To maintain the required level of hygiene standards/HACCP as laid down both legally and by the standards manual •To be responsible for the day to day training of the team Salary range: USD13,200 to USD14,400. Position currently held by a work permit holder Retail and Spa Manager The Retail &Spa Manager will be responsible for overseeing the entire Spa function. This includes retail, a full-service gym as well as massage therapy. The primary role of the Spa Manager are; •To ensure optimum guest and employee satisfaction. •Plan or direct spa services and programs •Train staff in the use or sale of products, programs, or activities •Assess employee performance and suggest ways to improve work •Check spa equipment to ensure proper functioning •Coordinate facility schedules to maximize usage and efficiency •Develop staff service or retail goals and guide staff in goal achievement •Establish spa budgets and financial goals •Inventory products and order new supplies Skills and Qualifications: Customer Focus, Tracking Budget Expenses, Pricing, Vendor Relationships, Market Knowledge, Staffing, Results Driven, Yoga/ Pilates knowledge, Strategic Planning, Strong Management Proficiency, Client Relationships, Verbal Communication and able to work long hours. Must have international spa and retail experience. Salary range: USD35,000 to USD44,800 per annum and is based on experience and qualification. Position currently held by a work permit holder. Crystallization Specialist: This individual will be responsible for grinding and leveling of floors with the required machinery. Responsible for all of the following: Travertine Cleaning , Marble Polishing, Marble Cleaning, Granite Polishing, Etch Removal, Stain Removal, Limestone Cleaning, Lippage
Removal, Crack & Chip Repair and Marble Floor Maintenance `Requirements: •Knowledge of working with chemicals used for floor restoration, polishing, buffing or crystallization on different stone floor types – Limestone/granite/marble •Some math and measuring skills along with an eye for detail •Also requires a great deal of lifting, bending and squatting, so a reasonable level of physical fitness is needed. Salary range: USD12,000 to USD 13,500 per annum. Position currently held by a work permit holder Housekeeping/Labourers Turndown Attendant / Houseman/Attendants Clean, stock, and provide turn down service for guest rooms to ensure cleanliness and guest satisfaction while caring enough to do it well by adhering to the Resort Commitments. Job knowledge/Skills/Abilities •Ability to work conscientiously, meets deadlines, follows instruction and directions, with minimal supervision and detailed oriented •Ability to stand, sit, kneel constantly to handle specific details or demands of quality and speedy guest services •Ability to work with cleaning agents by extending arms over head, bending and stooping •Ability and desire to handle the heat as the layout of the resort’s rooms dictate •Ability to push, lift and/or pull equipment up to or more than 100 lbs •Ability to scrub and scour surfaces, extend arms over head to perform cleaning tasks, and work in confined spaces •Additional language abilities preferred Salary range: USD12,000 to USD 13,500 per annum. Owners Asset Protection Officer This position is under the direct supervision of the Owners Relations Manager/General Manager and is responsible for the protection, safeguarding, and security of assets for the assigned Home Owners. Duties and Requirements: •A minimum of 5 years’ experience •Able to work flexible hours, holidays and weekends. •Highly trained in security procedures and martial arts. •First Aid training is preferable and ability to communicate effectively •Physical ability to run, walk, jump and bend. •Willing to work long Shifts (up to 14hrs) and split shift during the night. •Willing to work in all weather conditions and ability to respond to patron problems effectively. •Excellent customer service skills Salary range: USD1,100 per month
ONLY CANDIDATES MEETING ABOVE REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS WILL BE CONTACTED. Candidates should apply to Seven Stars Resort & Spa, Grace Bay Road, Providenciales via e-mail at hr@sevenstarsgracebay.com for consideration or should leave CV’s at the security building for the attention of HR. Prospective applicants who are Islanders kindly send copies of your application to the board. Application deadline: May 1, 2019
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
CARIBBEAN WORLD
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CARIBBEAN NEWS
NEWS NEWS
Cayman Islands’ Appeals Court puts same-sex marriage rights on hold Same-sex couples will have to wait a few months longer to find out if they have the right to get married in the Cayman Islands. The Court of Appeal agreed on Wednesday afternoon to delay implementation of last month’s historic judgment legalising samesex marriage. That decision means Caymanian Chantelle Day and her partner Vickie Bodden Bush, who brought the successful challenge to the territory’s marriage laws and had Chantelle Day, left, and Vickie Bodden Bush leave court with their lawyer Ben Tonner on planned to get married this week, Wednesday after hearing they must wait for the right to get married will have to delay their wedding. Government is appealing read and considered the “moving the Marriage Law directly, to create Chief Justice Anthony Smellie’s and detailed” affidavit of Day and what she described as “a new species decision to legalise same-sex was in “no doubt” of the prejudices of marriage”. She said the question of marriage and applied for a “stay” she and her partner faced. But, he said, there were marriage was a serious social issue to prevent gay and lesbian couples from getting married until the cogent grounds for a stay to be put and requested a stay until the appeal in place. was decided. conclusion of that appeal. McGrath, A panel of appeals court “The chief justice’s judgment David judges agreed to that request, saying concerns the institution of marriage representing the couple, said government had demonstrated that in the Cayman Islands and, as Ms. government’s grounds for appeal the appeal was arguable. President Sharma says, it can’t be right that were simply a rehash of arguments of the Court of Appeal Sir John there is legal uncertainty pending that had been unsuccessful at trial. Goldring said the court accepted the final decision of this court,” He said they were “totally without merit” and had “no chance of the point raised by attorney Reshma Justice Goldring said. He said the court was also success”, and it would be unfair to Sharma on behalf of the attorney general that it risked creating a conscious of the administrative his clients to deny them the “fruits legal anomaly if same-sex couples changes that may be required to give of their judgment”. He said government had were allowed to marry and the effect to the judgment legalising not contested the substantive chief justice’s decision was later same-sex marriage. “It is not without finding of the chief justice that, overturned on appeal. A mixed crowd of friends hesitation”, he said, “that we have by refusing access to marriage for and family of the two women and concluded that the interests of same-sex couples, it was in breach opponents of same-sex marriage justice do require a stay in this case, of multiple rights guaranteed under the Constitution. These include packed the public gallery as the pending the decision of this court.” In an initial hearing before the right to a private and family decision was announced. “Praise the lord, thank you, the Court of Appeal on Tuesday life and the right to freedom from Jesus,” one woman shouted at the afternoon, government argued discrimination. that Chief Justice Smellie’s decision He said, “Bearing in mind conclusion of the case. “Bigots,” another member should not be given effect until the the applicants seek to perpetuate appeals process had been exhausted an exclusion to marriage that the of the gallery shouted in response. A small group sang religious and there was “no legal question chief justice has described as an songs outside the court in apparent over the status of marriage in the indefensible anomaly, the stay Cayman Islands”. should not be granted.” celebration of the decision. Sharma said the Cayman Justice Goldring said the The Court of Appeal decision was exclusively focussed on Islands government maintained government did not have to prove government’s application for a stay. that the country’s Constitution that it had a realistic chance of The panel will hear the substantive defined marriage as between a man success on appeal to be granted a and a woman and would argue on stay. He said it simply had to prove appeal at its next sitting in August. Announcing the decision, appeal that the chief justice had that it had an arguable case. Justice Goldring said the judges had overstepped his powers by revising
Bloody weekend in Trinidad and Tobago The murder toll climbed to 127 for the year after six people were killed in separate incidents over the last weekend, police have confirmed. They said Peter Kurt Carrera, 37, and his 21-year-old girlfriend, Josanne Ragoonanan, were shot dead at the Diego martin home, west of here, by a gunman, who had earlier asked for a light to smoke a cigarette. Relatives said that the gunman had on Saturday night come to their home asking for a light to smoke a cigarette before asking for Kurt by name. “When my family said she didn’t smoke, the man asked, ‘where Kurt?’ and she said he lives next door. He went next door and my family saw the man greeting Kurt. They greeted each
other as though they knew one another,” the relative told reporters, adding that soon afterwards gunshots were heard. Police are also probing the murder of 27-year-old Kareem Garcia, who was shot near his home in Morvant, along the east west corridor on Saturday night. Garcia was with a group of friends when gunshots were heard. He and two others were rushed to the Port of Spain General Hospital, but Garcia was declared dead on arrival. The two others have been hospitalised with injuries to their lower back and the left buttocks. In another incident, a 22-year-old man was fatally stabbed by a woman during a heated argument in a bar. Police said Adrian “Tec” Grant was
at the bar in Maraval, on the outskirts of the capital, when he got into an argument with the unidentified woman, who later fled the scene. Grant was taken to the Port of Spain General Hospital and died while being treated. On Friday night, police said 16-year-old schoolboy, Akil Phillips, 16, was shot and killed and robbed of his cell phone in Laventille, along the east west corridor. The police are also investigating the murders of Kenton Jackson, 25, who was shot several times in Malony, east of here. Last year, 516 people were murdered, making it the second deadliest year in the island’s history. In 2008, there were 550 murders.
Haitian man seeking political asylum in Barbados
Attorney-at-law Lalu Hanuman (left) and Jean Wilny Michel leaving the Supreme Court A 31-year-old Haitian man who says he was forced to flee his homeland to save his life is now seeking political asylum in Barbados. “I have political prosecution in my country, Haiti and I flee here to Barbados to save my life,” Jean Wilny Michel told Barbados TODAY on the steps of the Supreme Court where his case for asylum is being heard. The computer scientist and television broadcast technician arrived in Bridgetown last September where he was given a six-month stay as a visitor, which expired on March 25. But before his time was up, attorney-at-law Lalu Hanuman filed an urgent writ before the court on his behalf seeking refuge. Chief Justice Sir Marston Gibson is hearing the matter which is believed to be the first of its kind in the country. In October 1983, then Prime Minister Tom Adams made an offer of political asylum to Unison Whiteman, foreign minister in Grenada’s People’s Revolutionary Government, while in transit to St. George’s. Whiteman declined the offer and continued on to Grenada, where he was later executed along with Prime Minister Maurice Bishop and other government leaders by rogue PRG military and political figures. Following a 15-minute hearing in the High Court, Hanuman told Barbados TODAY: “Our application was for political asylum in Barbados because of the repression he was undergoing in Haiti. The Chief Justice in a very humanitarian and perceptive order back on March 26 ruled that that there should be a stay of deportation pending a decision by the Minister of Home Affairs Edmund Hinkson on the application for political asylum. “He is part of the opposition in Haiti and suffered persecution as a result so he is really seeking sanctuary in Barbados from political oppression back in Haiti, he is seeking a safe haven.” But Hanuman said Barbados has no prior precedent “as far as we are aware” of anybody being granted political asylum. “Political asylum in Barbados is something unknown really. Barbados hasn’t ratified the 1951 Convention of Refugees so it is not something that has been previously done in Barbados so it is creating jurisprudence in Barbados in that effect,” The attorney added. The sitting resulted in the Chief Justice asking for more information and research on the matter, especially as Haiti is a member of the Caribbean Community and with Barbados opening its borders to its French-speaking CARICOM counterparts. Hanuman continued: “Research in terms of procedures to be followed because obviously he comes from a country that is part of CARICOM and Barbados has recently extended their CSM (Caricom Single Market) programme to Haiti – the Caribbean skilled national. So the Chief Justice wants us to investigate whether in fact despite him not having all his documentation if he could possibly still qualify for the CSM programme regardless of the lack of adequate documentation. “He doesn’t have his certificates, he doesn’t even have his birth certificate with him, for example academic certificates and so on. “Because Barbados has no prior precedent as far as we are aware of anybody being granted political asylum so he [the Chief Justice] is saying in the circumstances despite the lack of documentation maybe we should still try to do the CSM process and if that fails then to come back and pursue the political asylum avenue.” For now, Michel, who lives in Christ Church, has been given “indefinite leave to remain pending the political asylum determination”.
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CARIBBEAN NEWS Lynden Pindling Airport retooling to deal with heavy passenger traffic
President and Chief Executive Officer of NAD Vernice Walkine On March 9 the Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) set a record when 8,245 passengers passed through it, a statement from the Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD) revealed, adding that the airport saw an increase in passenger traffic of 21.9 percent year-on-year in the month of February. The statement added that record numbers have forced the airport to retool all of its standard operating procedures in order to have the facility operate at its most efficient level. In the statement, President and Chief Executive Officer of NAD Vernice Walkine said LPIA has seen increases in passenger traffic for the past 15 months, with the first quarter of 2019 showing 20 percent growth over last year’s figures. “For the upcoming Easter holiday period, we are continuing to evaluate and tweak our standard operating procedures in real time to accommodate larger passenger volumes in our facilities,” said Walkine. “We are working closely with all stakeholders to ensure that the airport performs at a level that provides an exceptional arrivals and departures experience for our users. Our efforts are coordinated and focused on using increased manpower, existing technology and effective communication between agencies to improve the overall operations during peak periods.” The release states that all agencies affiliated with the airport are working to keep up with the increase in passenger traffic, including the Department of Immigration, the Customs Department, Airport Authority, U.S. Customs & Border Protection, Nassau Flight Services, Air Traffic Services, airline operators, NAD operations, NAD parking and ground transportation, airport police and the Road Traffic Department. According to the statement, LPIA handles about 5,000 passengers per day. However, in February passenger numbers reached between 6,000 and 7,500. LPIA also saw an 8.58 percent increase in aircraft frequency year-over-year, with 13,114 aircraft movements in January 2019 and 12,386 in February 2019, the statement pointed out. “Stakeholders will also continue customerfocused measures implemented earlier this year,” the statement notes. “To expedite the flow of passengers on arrival, officers in the Bahamas immigration hall will process large families with young children and senior citizens on separate lines during the peak periods between 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. NAD operations team will again position line management agents (LMAs) to organize traffic flow in the U.S. departures terminal check-in hall with the goal of processing times falling within a 30-minute window.”
Homeless man admits death threats to Bermuda’s Premier
A homeless man who threatened to cut off the Bermuda’s Premier’s head pleaded guilty to two charges of making death threats. Jared Gordon, 29, admitted he sent two threatening e-mails to David Burt. But he denied a count of blackmail, and the prosecution said it would not proceed with that charge at this stage. The first of the e-mails said: “Ignoring me asking for a budget is driving me to a point of wanting to tell you this to your face ... I would really put a hole in your head.” The sentence was followed by a series of images of guns. The later e-mail said: “I’m
going to end up coming back like a thief in the night, pulling you out of your house and chopping your head off with a hacksaw.” The offences happened on October 12, 2017, and March 28, 2018. Gordon was charged in Magistrates’ Court last May and remanded in custody after he was unable to come up with a guarantee for bail. Simone Smith-Bean, for Gordon, asked that his bail conditions be changed to remove the need for a guarantee. Acting Judge Juan Wolffe extended Gordon’s bail, but left the need for a guarantee. Mr Justice Wolffe asked for a psychological assessment and a social inquiry report on Gordon and ordered him to stay at least
Bermuda’s Premeir David Burt 100 yards away from the House of Assembly, the Cabinet Office and Camden House, the official residence of the Premier.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer meets with Haitian leaders Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer met with Hervé H. Denis, the newly-appointed Haitian Ambassador to the United States, last week in Washington D.C. and promised to be an advocate of both the temporary protected status (TPS) of Haitian nationals and the Caribbean Basin Recovery Act. Schumer’s pledge came a day before a Brooklyn federal court judge filed an injunction on April 12 to maintain TPS for Haitians to remain in the United States until 2020 as Haiti recovers from damage sustained by a 7.0-magnitude earthquake that Senator Schumer met with Haitian leaders, including Speaker of the House of Deputies and occurred in 2010 and an outbreak the Haitian Ambassador to the United States of cholera that was brought to the island by UN relief workers. Survey. An estimated 156,000 live then there have been additional “As a representative of in New York City. benefits reserved for Haiti for trade the large and vibrant Haitian- Schumer also backed the from the Haitian Hemispheric American community in New York, measure to lengthen the Caribbean Opportunity through Partnership that has added so much to our Basin Economic Recovery Act of Encouragement Act of 2006 state and nation, it was a pleasure 1983, which is also known as the (HOPE), the Haitian Hemispheric to meet with the speaker of the Caribbean Basin Initiative. Opportunity through Partnership House of Deputies and the Haitian CBERA was enacted Encouragement Act of 2008 ambassador to the U.S. I strongly in 1984 and provides duty-free (HOPE II), and the Haiti Economic support the effort to extend trade between the United States Lift Program of 2010 (HELP). Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and the Caribbean, according to Those preferences were for vulnerable Haitians now in the Office of United States Trade scheduled to expire Sept. 30, 2025, America, as well as the extension of Representative. according to USTR. trade benefits between the U.S. and Haiti is among 17 However, an amendment Haiti included in the Caribbean countries within the CBI, to the Caribbean Basin Economic Basin Economic Recovery Act,” according to the USTR. Recovery Act on April 11 will said Schumer. The U.S.-Caribbean Basin extend provisions for trade Approximately 190,718 Trade Partnership Act of 2,000 between the U.S. and CBI countries Haitians live in New York State, expanded CBERA provisions and until Sept. 30, 2030. The extension according to Census data from CBTPA was set to expire on Sept. went into effect on April 13. the 2018 American Community 30, 2020, according to USTR. Since
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer meets with Haitian leaders Senate Minority Leader of cholera that was brought to the Haitians live in New York State, according to Census data from Chuck Schumer met with Hervé island by UN relief workers. H. Denis, the newly-appointed “As a representative of the large the 2018 American Community Haitian Ambassador to the United and vibrant Haitian-American Survey. An estimated 156,000 live States, last week in Washington community in New York, that in New York City. D.C. and promised to be an has added so much to our state Schumer also backed the advocate of both the temporary and nation, it was a pleasure to measure to lengthen the Caribbean protected status (TPS) of Haitian meet with the speaker of the Basin Economic Recovery Act of nationals and the Caribbean Basin House of Deputies and the Haitian 1983, which is also known as the Recovery Act. ambassador to the U.S. I strongly Caribbean Basin Initiative. Schumer’s pledge came support the effort to extend CBERA was enacted a day before a Brooklyn federal Temporary Protected Status (TPS) in 1984 and provides duty-free court judge filed an injunction for vulnerable Haitians now in trade between the United States on April 12 to maintain TPS for America, as well as the extension of and the Caribbean, according to Haitians to remain in the United trade benefits between the U.S. and the Office of United States Trade States until 2020 as Haiti recovers Haiti included in the Caribbean Representative. from damage sustained by a Basin Economic Recovery Act,” Haiti is among 17 countries within the CBI, 7.0-magnitude earthquake that said Schumer. Approximately 190,718 according to the USTR. occurred in 2010 and an outbreak
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CARIBBEAN NEWS
CCJ celebrates 14 years The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) is celebrating 14 years of its operations on Tuesday, April 16, 2019. The Court is marking this occasion with activities throughout the week. Today, to commemorate the actual day of the anniversary, the CCJ launched its 2019 Rules of Court for the Original and Appellate Jurisdictions. The Rules of the Court are reviewed every two years and the revisions help to further reduce delay, ensure greater clarity and support advances in court administration. The judges and the staff of the CCJ held a small ceremony to celebrate the anniversary and to witness the signing of the Rules. Additionally, a brochure containing information about the Court was inserted in one of the daily Registrar and Chief Marshal of the Caribbean Court of Justice, Ms. Jacqueline Graham, watches as the Hon. newspapers in Trinidad and Tobago to Mme. Justice Maureen Rajnauth-Lee affixes her signature to the revised Rules of Court in the Original and allow people an opportunity to learn the Appellate Jurisdiction about the Court. It is hoped that there will be similar initiatives with other seems to reflect growing confidence in continue to produce excellent work in newspapers throughout the region going the Court and a recognition that we play our judicial area,” he said. an important role in the Caribbean.” The CCJ will also reveal a forward. He noted that the Court also new design for its website, which can President of the CCJ, the Hon. Mr. Justice Adrian Saunders stated: “The launched its Strategic Plan which will be found at www.ccj.org, during the week. The new design will reflect a CCJ has much to be proud of in its 14 direct activities over the next five years. years. In 2018, we delivered our highest “One of the strategic issues identified, modern aesthetic and featured to be number of judgments in a year in the when we were gathering data to inform will also include an enhanced search for Appellate Jurisdiction, 34 in total, and the plan, was the need for increased judgments and a new Court calendar on we tried seven cases filed in the Original communication. With CCJ Week, we are the homepage. The Court will welcome the Jurisdiction, where we generally had two beginning to provide our stakeholders each year. The increased use of the CCJ with increased information while we public to its headquarters in Port of
Spain on Wednesday, April 17. Guided tours start at 9 a.m. and conclude at 3 p.m. Information about the Court will be shared, with an interactive tour of the courtroom and a demonstration of the technology that underpins the Court. Elements of the tour will be shared online for those who cannot be in Port of Spain. Throughout the week, the CCJ will share information about the Court on its social media platforms on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. The celebratory activities will close on April 18 where the CCJ will answer questions from the public on various platforms. There will be a particular focus to sharing information on the CCJ’s social media platforms, on Thursday, April 18 when the CCJ’s social media platform will provide answers to questions submitted on social media and through an email address, info@ccj. org. Members of the public are invited to pose questions directly to representatives from the CCJ. The week of activities to mark the anniversary began with a Media Open Day on April 13. Representatives from the media were invited to meet with, and hear from, the CCJ’s president and judges, as well as invited presenters, where they learned about the Court and posed questions to the panel.
Sandals Resorts highly rated by the British public in the latest annual ranking of the UK’s strongest consumer brands Superbrands revealed today to be named as a 2019 Consumer that luxury Caribbean hotel brand Superbrand including Hilton Hotels Sandals Resorts has been awarded & Resorts, Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Consumer Superbrands status for 2019. Premier Inn, Holiday Inn, Travelodge, The Consumer Superbrands survey has Centre Parcs, Radisson Hotels and been tracking the perception of a wide- Crowne Plaza. range of brands in the UK since 1995. Managing Director of Unique This year’s survey featured Vacations UK Ltd., representatives 1,596 brands across 78 different of Sandals Resorts in the UK and categories, ranging from ‘Automotive Europe, Karl Thomspon, commented: Products’ to ‘Vitamins & Supplements’. “We are extremely proud that our Only the most highly-regarded brands Sandals Resorts brand has maintained from each category are awarded the coveted Superbrands status for another year. This is a testament to our Superbrand status. The research process was managed by innovative product and strong brand The Centre for Brand Analysis (TCBA) values that we strive to continually in partnership with Dynata, one of build on.” the world’s leading data research All voters were asked to companies. It follows a voting process judge brands against the three core involving a nationally representative factors inherent in a Superbrand: quality, reliability and distinction. sample of 2,500 UK consumers. Sandals Resorts is one of just Additionally, brand perception and nine household name travel companies voting by individuals is also influenced
Rijo still ‘stateless’ The Immigration Department “is committed and remained duty bound” says efforts to repatriate Juan Abraham to ensure that Rijo is returned safely to Ramirez Rijo to his reputed homeland, his homeland, the immigration chief the Dominican Republic, continue to said in a Government statement. be hampered owing to a lack of travel Rijo was one of 13 people documents and identification. rescued by the crew of a cruise ship And the DR is refusing to accept en route to Barbados on December 20 the man – picked up at sea by a passing from a small vessel which was adrift 47 cruise ship and handed over to the Coast nautical miles from Cabo Rojo, Puerto Guard four months ago – unless he can Rico. provide documentary evidence of his The 13, including a pregnant nationality. woman, were medically examined, And the length of time in found to be in good health, and were detention has begun to take its toll on housed here “in a secure location” until the man who is caught in a legal no they were identified, according to the man’s land. statement. Chief Immigration Officer They were also allowed to Wayne Marshall issued a statement contact family and friends in an effort Tuesday in response to Rijo’s claims that to return home. After being held here for he was being held in a cold room at the two weeks, all but Rijo were repatriated airport detention centre in handcuffs, to their homeland. causing nosebleeds. Marshall said: “Over the past The Immigration Department three months the department conducted
by a range of both short and long-term Chairman of Superbrands comments: factors, from the brand’s current profile “UK consumers have a rich, abundant to its latest marketing activities and choice of brands for almost everything new product and service developments, they might wish to purchase. The giving a holistic picture of how brands commercial success of a given brand is therefore highly correlated to consumer are currently perceived. Brands do not pay or apply to sentiment, perception and desirability. “Being highly-regarded and be considered – in order to provide a broad review of the market and identify deemed a Superbrand by the public the strongest brands in each category, is an important indicator of a brand’s all the key players in each sector need market strength, competitive position and prospects. As we enter incresingly to be voted on. In addition to the British unsettled times, possesing a strong public vote, which was weighted to Superbrand provides businesses with a reflect the breadth of opinion across vital and valuable asset.” the whole country, all brands awarded Separately, the parallel Business Superbrand status were also highly Superbrands survey results were also rated by an objective and voluntary revealed today, showing Apple as the council of senior industry experts to number one brand according to UK provide a secondary quality control business professionals and marketing mechanism. experts. More information can be Stephen Cheliotis, CEO of The found on the Superbrands UK website: Centre for Brand Analysis (TCBA) and www.superbrands.uk.com.
an in-depth investigation seeking the assistance of local and international entities and was able to gather information relating to his identity. This information included biometric and biographic data and was forwarded to the authorities of the Dominican Republic. “However, the authorities have stated that they are unable to confirm his identity, and that he is likely to be refused entry if he presents without a valid Dominican Republic travel document.” The Immigration Department also sought the assistance of a Barbadian who lived in the Dominican Republic to communicate with Rijo, and also to make contact with officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Santo Domingo, it said. The immigration chief said that the man continues to be housed at a detention centre here “where he is cared for daily, and provided with medical attention from doctors at the polyclinic, the emergency medical technicians at the airport and the Port Health nurse”, according to the Government statement.
The statement declared that none of his ailments was considered serious, and he was deemed fit to return to the detention centre. But over the past few weeks, Rijo has become increasingly agitated and frustrated, which the Chief Immigration Officer said led to him abusing his privileges and refusing to follow instructions. “He also became disruptive and threatened and used abusive language to immigration officers” and police were called in on four occasions, Marshall said. The immigration chief denied that the currently stateless man was kept in handcuffs or restrained at any time, stating that detainees at the centre are neither handcuffed nor restrained. Marshall said: “Mr. Rijo’s case is unusual, since most detainees are repatriated to their homeland in a day or two. However, the officers have gone beyond the call of duty to ensure that his basic human rights were not infringed. “Moreover, he was allowed to walk around freely in the detention area until bedtime.”
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NEWS
Mueller report says investigators struggled with whether Trump committed crime of obstruction
A detailed report from cannot be charged with a crime, and decided not to do so, unsure if that was special counsel Robert S. Mueller said that a president has a great deal of true and fearing it might be improper. investigators struggled with both the constitutional authority to give orders to “Some evidence suggests that legal implications of investigating other government employees. the President knew about the existence President Trump for possible obstruction Trump ultimately submitted and content of Flynn’s calls when they of justice, and the motives behind a written answers to the investigators. The occurred, but the evidence is inconclusive range of his most alarming actions, from special counsel’s office considered them and could not be relied upon to establish seeking the ouster of former officials to “inadequate” but did not press for an the President’s knowledge,’ the report ordering a memo that would clear his interview because doing so would cause said. name. a “substantial delay,” the report says. The special counsel’s report “The evidence we obtained The report said investigators on possible coordination between about the President’s actions and intent felt they have “sufficient evidence to the Trump campaign and Russians to presents difficult issues that would need understand relevant events and to interfere in the 2016 election is extremely to be resolved if we were making a make certain assessments without the detailed with only modest redactions traditional prosecutorial judgment,” the President’s testimony.” — painting a far less flattering picture report stated. “At the same time, if we had A copy of the report was for Trump than the attorney general confidence after a thorough investigation delivered to Congress Thursday morning. has offered and revealing new details of the facts that the President clearly did Repeatedly, it appears Trump may have about interactions between Russians not commit obstruction of justice, we been saved from more serious legal and Trump associates. Mueller’s team would so state. Based on the facts and jeopardy by his own staffers, who refused wrote that though their investigation the applicable legal standards, we are to carry out orders they thought were “did not establish that the Trump unable to reach that judgment.” problematic or legally dangerous. Campaign coordinated with the Russian Since Mueller concluded his For instance, in the early days of government in its election interference investigation last month, a central the administration, when the president activities,” that assertion was informed question facing the Justice Department was facing growing questions about by the fact that coordination requires has been why Mueller’s team did not then-national security adviser Michael more than two parties “taking actions reach a conclusion about whether the Flynn’s conversation about sanctions that were informed by or responsive to president obstructed justice. The issue with a Russian ambassador, the president the other’s actions or interests.” was complicated, the report said, by ordered another aide, KT McFarland, to And Mueller made abundantly two key issues — the fact that under write an email saying that the president clear: Russia wanted to help the Trump department practice, a sitting president did not direct those conversations. She campaign, and the Trump campaign was
willing to take it. “Although the investigation established that the Russian government perceived it would benefit from a Trump presidency and worked to secure that outcome, and that the Campaign expected it would benefit electorally from information stolen and released through Russian efforts, the investigation did not establish that members of the Trump Campaign conspired or coordinated with the Russian government in its election interference activities,” Mueller’s team wrote. The report detailed a damning timeline of contacts between the Trump campaign and those with Russian ties — much of it already known, but some of it new. For example, Mueller’s team asserted that in August 2016, Konstantin Kilimnik, who the FBI has assessed as having ties to Russian intelligence, met with Manafort “to deliver in person a peace plan for Ukraine that Manafort acknowledged to the Special Counsel’s Office was a ‘backdoor’ way for Russia to control part of eastern Ukraine.” The special counsel wrote that both men believed the plan would require candidate Trump’s assent to success (were he elected President).
French President Macron hopes to rebuild Notre-Dame in five years President Emmanuel Macron pledged on Tuesday that France would rebuild the fire-devastated Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral, saying he hoped the work would be done in five years and the French people would pull together to repair their national symbol. Macron devoted a brief primetime televised address to Monday’s catastrophic blaze in the heart of the capital, again postponing planned remarks on his response to months of anti-government protests. “We will rebuild Notre-Dame even more beautifully and I want it to be completed in five years, we can do it,” Macron said. “It is up to us to convert this disaster into an opportunity to come together, having deeply reflected on what we have been and what we have to be and become better than we are. It is up to us to find the thread of our national project.” “This is not a time for politics,” added Macron, who had cancelled a speech planned on Monday evening on the response to the “yellow vest” protests. He visited the site of the fire late on Monday and promised then to rebuild the cathedral, parts of which date to the 12th century. The cathedral spire was destroyed and its roof gutted but the bell towers were still standing and many valuable art works were saved after more than 400 firemen worked to contain the blaze, finally quelling it 14 hours after it began. As the city and the country grieved for a potent national symbol, billionaires, companies and local authorities were quick to offer donations. Some 24 hours after the fire started, more than 750 million euros ($845 million) had been pledged, including 500 million from the three billionaire families that own France’s giant luxury goods empires: Kering, LVMH and L’Oreal. Paris public prosecutor Remy
A view of the debris inside Notre-Dame de Paris in the aftermath of a fire that devastated the cathedral Heitz said there was no obvious despite everything,” said Sister Marie indication the fire was arson. Fifty people Aimee, a nun who had hurried to a were working on what would be a long nearby church to pray as the flames and complex investigation, officials said. spread. The fire swiftly ripped through Messages of condolence flooded the cathedral’s oak roof supports, in from around the world. where workmen had been carrying out Pope Francis, the leader of extensive renovations to the spire’s the Catholic Church, was praying for timber-framed supports. Police began those affected, the Vatican said, adding: questioning the workers involved, the “Notre-Dame will always remain - and we prosecutor’s office said. have seen this in these hours - a place One firefighter was injured where believers and non-believers can but no one else was hurt, with the fire come together in the most dramatic starting at around 6:30 p.m. after the moments of French history.” building was closed to the public for the Britain’s Queen Elizabeth evening. expressed deep sadness while her son and Firefighters examined the heir Prince Charles said he was “utterly facade, with its spectacular 10-metre heartbroken”. Chancellor Angela Merkel filigreed stained-glass rose window still offered German help to rebuild a part of intact. They could be seen walking atop “our common European heritage”. the belfries as police kept the area in Considered among the lockdown. finest examples of European Gothic Investigators will not be able architecture, Notre-Dame is visited to enter the cathedral’s blackened by more than 13 million people a nave until experts are satisfied its walls year. It sits on an island in the Seine, withstood the heat and the building is overlooking the Left Bank hangouts of structurally sound. Ernest Hemingway and Pablo Picasso. “Yesterday we thought the “Notre-Dame de Paris is the whole cathedral would collapse. Yet this cathedral of the people, of the people morning she is still standing, valiant, of Paris, of the French people, of the
people of the world. It is part of those references of our history, of what we have in common, of what we share,” said Interior Minister Christophe Castaner. It was at Notre-Dame that Henry VI of England was crowned “King of France” in 1431, that Napoleon was made emperor in 1804, and Pope Pius X beatified Joan of Arc in 1909. Presidents Charles de Gaulle and Francois Mitterrand were mourned there. The cathedral is owned by the state and has been at the centre of a dispute between the nation and the Paris archdiocese over who should finance restoration work to collapsed balustrades, crumbling gargoyles and cracked facades. It was too early to estimate the cost of the damage, said the heritage charity Fondation du Patrimoine. Paolo Violini, a restoration specialist for Vatican museums, said the pace of the fire’s spread had been stunning. “We are used to thinking about them as eternal simply because they have been there for centuries, or a thousand years, but the reality is they are very fragile,” Violini said. The company carrying out the renovation works when the blaze broke out said it would cooperate fully with the investigation. “All I can tell you is that at the moment the fire began none of my employees were on the site. We respected all procedures,” Julien Le Bras, a representative of family firm Le Bras Freres. Many relics and artworks were saved. At one point, firefighters, policemen and municipal workers formed a human chain to remove the treasures, including a centuries-old crown of thorns made from reeds and gold, and the tunic believed to have been worn by Saint Louis, a 13th century king of France. Gold, silver and gem-inlaid chalices, candelabras and many other artefacts survived the blaze.
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UK parliament very likely to consider new Brexit referendum – Hammond The idea of a second Brexit referendum is very likely to be put before Britain’s parliament again although the government remains opposed to any new plebiscite, the British finance minister said on Friday. Philip Hammond said he hoped parliament would break the Brexit impasse by passing a deal by the end of June, potentially ending the calls for a new referendum, and there was a “good chance” of a breakthrough in talks with the opposition Labour Party. “I remain optimistic that over the next couple of months we will get a deal done,” he told reporters in Washington where he is attending meetings at the International Monetary Fund. But a second referendum could not be ruled out. “It’s a proposition that could and, on all the evidence, is very likely to be put to parliament at some stage,” Hammond said. Prime Minister Theresa May has so far failed to get her own Conservative Party behind the Brexit divorce deal she agreed with other European Union leaders last year, forcing her to ask the bloc for a delay and to start talks with
Labour about how to break the impasse decide on where it stands,” Hammond in parliament. said. Many Labour lawmakers are Parliament has previously pressing their leader Jeremy Corbyn to rejected the idea of a new referendum demand a new referendum in talks with and other possible solutions the Brexit the government. impasse. Hammond said that while the Hammond said the risk of a nogovernment was opposed to a new public deal Brexit had been reduced but not vote, other Labour demands - such as a averted by this week’s delay of Britain’s customs union with the EU - were up for exit and such an outcome would be felt debate. in the global economy. Hammond said about six Ending the uncertainty would months would be needed to hold a “unleash the very large stock of potential referendum, so if parliament voted in investment that is hanging over the UK a couple of months’ time to make one economy in suspended animation,” he a condition of approving a Brexit deal, said. there would be no time before Britain is Bank of England Governor Mark due to leave the EU on Oct. 31. Carney said on Thursday that Brexit had One of May’s most pro-EU pushed business uncertainty “through ministers, Hammond has faced criticism the roof”. from Brexit supporters for saying Britain Carney is due to step down should stay close to the bloc. He angered at the end of January, having delayed them again recently by describing his departure twice to help Brexit another Brexit referendum as a “perfectly preparations. credible proposition”. Hammond said Brexit could “(A second referendum) in the put off some qualified candidates in the end is an issue about parliament and search for the next BoE governor which parliamentary numbers, and where the was now underway. Labour Party ends up on this, as the “There may be some candidates Labour Party itself is deeply divided on who might be deterred from an this issue and at some point will have to application because of the political
First shipment of Red Cross humanitarian aid arrives in Venezuela The first shipment of humanitarian aid from the Red Cross intended to alleviate a dire economic crisis in Venezuela arrived in the onceprosperous, oil-rich country on Tuesday, a representative of the organization and a lawmaker said. The delivery came after an about-face by President Nicolas Maduro, who last week said his socialist government had reached an agreement with the Red Cross to bring aid. Maduro had blocked previous efforts to deliver assistance and has denied the existence of a humanitarian crisis. “The International Red Cross today delivered its first batch of support for Venezuela, together with the revolutionary government that I lead, and it was received in a legal and orderly way, complying with international protocols,” Maduro said in a speech broadcast on state television. There was little hope that the shipment - intended to help hospitals cope with shortages of equipment and frequent power outages - would be anything more than a palliative measure for Venezuela, where over three million people have fled the chaos of hyperinflation and chronic shortages of food and medicine. But opposition lawmaker Miguel Pizarro said the lack of “interference” by Maduro’s government with the entry of aid was a positive step and that more shipments would arrive in the days ahead. “The same people who had previously denied the arrival (of aid), who had previously brought this country to the verge of confrontation, are today complying with humanitarian principles,” Pizarro told reporters at the Congress, adding that the Red Cross would handle the logistics of distribution. Venezuela was plunged into a political deadlock in January, when Juan Guaido, the leader of the oppositioncontrolled National Assembly invoked the country’s constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing Maduro’s 2018 re-election was illegitimate.
Workers of Venezuelan Red Cross distribute humanitarian aid in the form of water containers and water purification pills in the Agua Salud neighbourhood in Caracas, Venezuela, April 16, 2019 Guaido has since been recognized as Venezuela’s rightful leader by most Western nations. Several countries, including the United States and neighboring Colombia, contributed to a February effort to deliver aid across Venezuela’s land borders, in the hopes soldiers would disavow Maduro’s orders to block it. While that effort failed, the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said in late March it was prepared to start an aid operation. Tuesday’s shipment, which arrived via airplane from Panama, included 14 power generators, 5,000 liters of distilled water, and three surgery equipment kits capable of serving 10,000 patients each, according to the Red Cross. Mario Villarroel, the Red Cross’ president in Venezuela, said on Twitter that the materials would be distributed to hospitals around the country. The United Nations estimates that a quarter of Venezuelans are in need of humanitarian assistance, with 1.9 million suffering from malnutrition and some 300,000 whose lives are at risk due to lack of medicine.
Britain’s Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond leaves Downing Street in London, Britain April 10, 2019 debate around Brexit, which inevitably the governor of the Bank of England can’t avoid being part of,” he said. Supporters of Brexit have often accused Carney of giving over-gloomy assessments of the costs of leaving the EU. Hammond also said the Brexit delay was hampering government efforts to improve economic productivity and could throw off course a planned multiyear budget for government departments due late this year.
Peru ex-president Garcia shoots himself as police try to arrest him Peru’s former president Alan Garcia shot himself early on Wednesday after police arrived at his home in the capital Lima to arrest him in connection with a bribery investigation, a police source said. Garcia, 69, was immediately taken to the Casimiro Ulloa hospital, said the source, who was not authorized to talk to the media. Local TV channel America reported Garcia was undergoing emergency surgery and was in critical condition, and broadcast images of Garcia’s son and supporters arriving at the hospital. Erasmo Reyna, Garcia’s lawyer, told journalists that Garcia’s condition was “delicate.” “Right now he’s being operated on. Let’s pray to God to give him strength,” Reyna said in broadcast comments. Garcia, a skilled orator who has led Peru’s once-powerful Apra party for decades, governed Peru as a nationalist from 1985 to 1990 before remaking himself as a free-market proponent and winning a new five-year term in 2006. Garcia was under investigation in connection with Brazilian construction company Odebrecht, which triggered Latin America’s biggest graft scandal when it admitted publicly
Former president of Peru Alan Garcia arrives to the National Prosecution office to testify in Odebrecht case in Lima, Peru February 16, 2017 in 2016 that it won lucrative contracts in the region with bribes. Last year, Garcia asked Uruguay for political asylum after he was banned from leaving the country to keep him from fleeing or obstructing the investigation. Uruguay rejected the request. He has repeatedly denied wrongdoing.
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Ecuador’s president says Assange tried to use its embassy to spy
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is seen as he leaves a police station in London, Britain April 11, 2019 WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange repeatedly violated his asylum conditions and tried to use the Ecuadorian embassy in London as a center for spying, Ecuador’s President Lenin Moreno told Britain’s Guardian newspaper. London police dragged Assange out of the embassy on Thursday after his seven-year asylum was revoked, paving the way for his extradition to the United States for one of the biggest ever leaks of classified information. Assange’s relationship with his hosts collapsed after Ecuador accused him of leaking information about Moreno’s personal life. Moreno denied to the Guardian that he had acted as a reprisal for the way in which documents about his family had been leaked. He said he regretted that Assange had used the embassy to interfere in other country’s democracies. “Any attempt to destabilize is a reprehensible act for Ecuador, because we are a sovereign nation and respectful of the politics of each country,” Moreno told the Guardian by email. “We cannot allow our house, the house that opened its doors, to become a center for spying,” the Guardian quoted Moreno as saying. Supporters of Assange said Ecuador had betrayed him at the behest of Washington, that the ending of his asylum was illegal and that it marked a dark moment for press freedom.
Man hospitalized after lighting jacket on fire outside White House A man in a wheelchair-type electric scooter lit his jacket on fire outside the White House fence on Friday and was hospitalized with what appeared to be non-life threatening injuries, the U.S. Secret Service said. Secret Service officers responded to the incident on the north side of the executive mansion, extinguished the fire and provided first aid, the agency said on Twitter. Daniel Kingery, a 57-year-old voter rights activist, said the man was holding up his burning jacket and recording the incident, which appeared to be a demonstration. “He wasn’t obeying their order to put it down, so it was definitely some sort of a protest,” Kingery said. The Secret Service put out the fire, knocked him out of the scooter, and dragged him to a statue in nearby Lafayette Square where other officials were waiting, he added. The Secret Service closed Pennsylvania Avenue in front of the White House to pedestrian traffic, and a nearby block of 17th Street was closed as well. At least portions of the White House complex were locked down. News video showed emergency medical personnel arriving to tend to a person who police had surrounded on the ground. A CNN reporter on Twitter cited a Secret Service spokeswoman as saying there was no threat to U.S. President Donald Trump. The incident occurred shortly after Trump spoke at the White House about the nation’s 5G network.
Netanyahu passes threshold for nomination as Israel’s premier Israel’s president said a majority of members of parliament had advised him to have Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu form a government after the April 9 election, effectively ensuring his nomination. In office for the past decade, Netanyahu won a fifth term despite an announcement by Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit in February that he intends to charge the prime minister in three corruption cases. Netanyahu has denied wrongdoing. President Reuven Rivlin chooses a party leader whom he judges has the best prospect of putting together a ruling coalition. He will announce his candidate on Wednesday. In broadcast remarks on Tuesday, the second day of Rivlin’s consultations with political parties on their preferences for prime minister, he said Netanyahu “now has a majority of Knesset members” behind him. “Any room I had for manoeuvre has effectively been
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gestures during a weekly cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, April 14, 2019 removed at this moment,” he added. Netanyahu’s nomination has been a foregone conclusion since right-wing and religious parties allied with Netanyahu’s Likud captured the largest number of seats in the Knesset in last week’s ballot and his closest rival, centrist Benny Gantz, conceded defeat. Netanyahu has said he intends to build a coalition with five far-right, right-wing and ultra-
Orthodox Jewish parties that would give the Likud-led government 65 seats, four more than his outgoing administration. Representatives of all of those parties told Rivlin at the meetings, broadcast live on the internet, that they recommended Netanyahu. Gantz, a former military chief of staff whose Blue and White party won 35 parliamentary seats, would likely be next in line to try to assemble a government if Netanyahu fails to do so within 42 days of being chosen by Rivlin. Likud, like Gantz’s party, secured 35 Knesset seats, up from 30 it had won in the previous election in 2015. Netanyahu is under no legal obligation to resign if indicted. He can still argue, at a pre-trial hearing whose date has not been set, against the formal filing of bribery and fraud charges against him. He would become Israel’s longest-serving prime minister in July.
Chinese woman arrested at Mar-a-Lago ‘up to something,’ denied bail A Chinese woman charged with bluffing her way into U.S. President Donald Trump’s Florida resort last month was denied bail on Monday by a federal judge who said he believed she was “up to something nefarious.” Yujing Zhang, who was carrying multiple electronic devices when arrested, pleaded not guilty at her arraignment and detention hearing on Monday in West Palm Beach, Florida. Zhang, 33, was indicted on Friday on charges of making false statements to a federal officer and entering or remaining in a restricted area at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort, an incident that raised concerns about security at the Palm Beach club. During the hearing, a federal prosecutor said Zhang could face more charges and U.S. Magistrate Judge William Matthewman ordered her continued detention. Matthewman said he
was concerned Zhang told U.S. Secret Service agents she was at Mar-a-Lago to attend a charity event that prosecutors allege she knew was canceled. He also was troubled she was carrying four cellphones, a laptop computer, an external hard drive and a thumb drive when arrested. “It does appear to the court that Ms. Zhang was up to something nefarious when she unlawfully attempted to gain access to Mar-a-Lago,” Matthewman said. Zhang has not been indicted on espionage charges. The FBI is examining whether she has links to Chinese intelligence agencies or political influence operations, U.S. government sources said. Prosecutors previously said Zhang’s thumb drive contained malware. But Assistant U.S. Attorney Rolando Garcia told the court a second analysis found no such software and the
first could have been a “false positive.” Zhang, a Shanghai-based financial investor and consultant, was arrested on March 30 after giving conflicting reasons for being at the club during one of Trump’s weekend visits. Trump was not on the premises at the time. Zhang’s lawyers said she paid $20,000 to attend a charity gala at Mar-a-Lago advertised on Chinese social media. Garcia said an analysis of Zhang’s social media communications found she was told on March 26 the event was canceled. Zhang’s public defender, Kristy Militello, blamed the incident on a series of “genuine misunderstandings.” “The sad fact of this case is that if a Mandarin interpreter was provided at that first checkpoint, we very well might not be here today,” Militello said of Zhang’s initial entry into the resort.
Terrorist presence on migrants boats from Libya now a certainty: Italy’s Salvini Chaos in Libya following General Khalifa Haftar’s offensive has increased the risk of terrorist presence on migrant boats headed for Italy, Interior Minister Matteo Salvini said, adding the country’s ports would remain closed. “Islamic terrorist infiltration is no longer a risk, it has become a certainty: it is therefore my duty to reiterate that no docking will be allowed on Italian shores” he said in a radio interview on Wednesday. Salvini, leader of the antiimmigrant League party, refused to say if Italy’s stance could change in case of a full-fledged war in Libya after the flare-up in the cycle of anarchy gripping the country since dictator Matteo Salvini, Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the far-right League Party, Muammar Gaddafi was toppled in speaks as he launches the start of his campaign for the European elections, in Milan, Italy April 8, 2019 2011.
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Thousands of activists block London roads to demand action on climate change Thousands of environmental activists paralyzed parts of central London on Monday by blocking Marble Arch, Oxford Circus and Waterloo Bridge in a bid to force the government to do more to tackle climate change. Under sunny skies, activists sang songs or held signs that read “There is no Planet B” and “Extinction is forever” at some of the capital’s most iconic locations. Roadblocks will continue night and day at each site and the demonstrators say the protests could last at least a week. The protests are being led by the British climate group Extinction Rebellion and will involve demonstrations in 33 countries around the world over the coming days. “I realized that signing petitions and writing letters was not going to be enough. Real action is needed,” said Diana McCann, 66, a retired wine trader from south London, holding a banner in the middle of a traffic-free road. “It’s like a world war. We have to go on to a war footing.” Extinction Rebellion, which generated headlines with a semi-nude protest in the House of Commons earlier this month, has warned its members that some of them could be arrested for taking part in non-violent civil disobedience. The group is demanding the government declare a climate and
Climate change activists attend an Extinction Rebellion protest in London, Britain April 15, 2019 ecological emergency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2025 and create a citizen’s assembly of members of the public to lead on decisions to address climate change. At the Shell building near the River Thames, two protesters scaled up scaffolding writing ‘Shell Knows!’ in red paint on the front of the building and three protesters glued their hands to the revolving doors at the entrance. Activists said they smashed the glass of a revolving door and caused more than 6,000 pounds ($7,900) worth of damage. At least one person was
arrested by police for criminal damage. At Oxford Circus, protesters unveiled a pink boat that says “TELL THE TRUTH” and on Waterloo Bridge demonstrators brought trees, hanging baskets and skate ramps. The protest had a festive atmosphere, with many families in attendance, and a low police presence. Extinction Rebellion wrote to Prime Minister Theresa May on Monday outlining their demands and asking for face-to-face talks, warning that they will escalate their disruptive actions over the coming weeks unless the government
Egypt’s parliament backs measures that could extend Sisi’s term Egypt’s parliament on Tuesday approved amendments to the constitution that could keep President Abdel Fattah alSisi in power until 2030, though they still have to be endorsed in a referendum to take effect. The changes would extend Sisi’s current term to six years from four and then allow him to run again for a third term, which would last six years. The amendments would also bolster the role of the military in political life and increase the president’s power over the judiciary, critics of the changes say. The 596-member parliament, which is dominated by Sisi supporters, voted 531 to 22 in favour of the amendments. A date for the referendum has not yet been confirmed, but Cairo is full of banners encouraging Egyptians to participate. Sisi’s supporters say the changes are necessary to give him more time to complete major development projects and economic reforms. His critics say they concentrate more powers in the hands of a leader accused by rights groups of presiding over a relentless crackdown on freedoms. “This will result in the most centralized system for rule that Egypt has seen in almost half a century,” said Nathan Brown, professor of political science at George Washington University. Another critic, Michele Dunne, director and senior fellow
Egypt President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi is seen during a news conference at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, April 11, 2019 at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace’s Middle East Program, said the amendments were intended to remove the possibility of political competition for Sisi. “These amendments are not needed for the good of Egypt; rather they constitute a personalization of power for Abdel Fattah al-Sisi,” she said. “They will also become a strong public grievance against him and might sow the seeds of his ultimate undoing.” The changes include creating a second parliamentary chamber to be known as the Senate, composed of at least 180 members, a third of whom would
be appointed by the president. They would also give the president new powers over the appointment of judges and the public prosecutor. In a report about the draft amendments, the parliament’s legislative committee said a fouryear term was not enough in Egypt, which is still recovering from the turmoil that followed a 2011 uprising. “It is an unrealistic period... to achieve complete and sustainable development...,” a draft of the report seen by Reuters said regarding article 140, which would extend the presidential term to six years. The committee said Sisi had not asked for the amendments. The Civil Democratic Movement, a coalition of Egyptian opposition parties, called on Monday for parliament to reject the changes and for Egyptians to vote against the amendments in the planned referendum. On Monday NetBlocks, an internet monitoring group, said Egypt had blocked access to an estimated 34,000 internet domains in an apparent attempt to eliminate an online campaign opposing the proposed amendments. This came after Egypt last week blocked a petition website set up to collect signatures against the referendum. Users were still able to access the website, voiceonline.net, from abroad or via a virtual private network (VPN), which allows them to skirt local controls.
acts. “Make no mistake, people are already dying,” the letter states. “In the majority world, indigenous communities are now on the brink of extinction. This crisis is only going to get worse … Prime minister, you cannot ignore this crisis any longer. We must act now.” Organizers of the protests circulated legal advice to anyone planning to attend, requesting they refrain from using drugs and alcohol, and asking them to treat the public with respect. London’s police have advised people traveling around London in the coming days to allow extra time for their journey in the event of road closures and general disruption. The disruption follows similar action last November when thousands of protesters occupied five central London bridges. Police arrested 85 people that day. Rowan McLaughlin, 47, a teacher, said this week’s protests were more important that the huge pro and anti-Brexit protests in London recently. “In Europe, out of Europe, it makes no difference if we have no liveable habitat,” he said. “We’re just going to get bigger and more annoying until the government speaks to us.”
Man accused of tossing boy off Mall of America balcony ordered held without bond A Minnesota judge ordered a man accused of critically injuring a 5-year-old boy by throwing him off a balcony at the Mall of America held in lieu of a $2 million bond until a hearing next month, prosecutors said. In his first court appearance since Friday’s incident, when he allegedly dropped the boy nearly 40 feet (12 meters), Emmanuel Aranda was charged with attempted premeditated first-degree murder, Hennepin County Attorney’s office spokesman Chuck Laszewski said. Prosecutors had asked for bail to be set at $2 million, but Hennepin Country District Court Judge Jeannice Reding reserved her decision on the request, ordering Aranda held in lieu of $2 million bond until a May 14 hearing, Laszewski said. Aranda, 24, who lives in Minneapolis, did not enter a plea, Laszewski added. It was not immediately clear if Aranda had a lawyer. Asked by the judge if he had any questions, Aranda standing behind a glass partition in the courtroom replied: “Not at all.” Police have not identified the boy, but said he suffered life-threatening injuries from the fall at the Bloomington mall, a major tourist attraction in the state. On Tuesday they said his condition remained critical. A posting late Monday on a GoFundMe page set to help pay for his medical expenses gave the boy’s first name as Landen. “His condition has very little change at this point, but we are hoping to get some good news back from some upcoming tests in the next few days,” wrote Noah Hanneman, a family friend who launched the GoFundMe drive. By Tuesday afternoon, the campaign had raised $711,000, well over its $500,000 goal, since it was launched on Saturday. Police said Aranda had a history of mental issues and arrests on relatively minor charges. He told investigators he had been visiting the mall for years to try talk to women, but their rejection “caused him to lash out and be aggressive,” prosecutors said in a complaint. Aranda said he had initially intended to kill an adult the day before the incident, according to the complaint filed with the court on Monday. He did not follow through but returned to the mall Friday still intending to kill an adult. He chose the boy instead, and admitted throwing him from the building’s third tier, the complaint said.
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Facebook spends $22.6 million to keep Mark Zuckerberg safe Facebook Inc more than doubled the money it spent on Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg’s security in 2018 to $22.6 million, a regulatory filing showed on Friday. Zuckerberg has drawn a base salary of $1 for the past three years, and his “other” compensation was listed at $22.6 million, most of which was for his personal security. Nearly $20 million went toward security for Zuckerberg and his family, up from about $9 million the year prior. Zuckerberg also received $2.6 million for personal use of private jets, which the company said was part of his overall security program. Facebook has in the past few years faced public outcry over its role in Russia’s alleged influence on the 2016 U.S. presidential election and has come under fire following revelations that Cambridge Analytica obtained personal data from millions of Facebook profiles without consent. Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg took home $23.7 million in 2018 compared to $25.2
Facebook’s founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg speaks at the Viva Tech start-up and technology summit in Paris, France, May 24, 2018 million last year. Separately, Facebook said Netflix Chief Executive Officer Reed Hastings would vacate his seat on the social media company’s board and not be nominated for reelection. Hastings’ departure comes as the Menlo Park-based company beefs up its push into videos. Hastings has served on Facebook’s
board since 2011. The company also said it would nominate PayPal’s senior vice president of core markets, Peggy Alford, to its board in place of University of North Carolina President Emeritus Erskine Bowles, who will also not be re-nominated. Facebook shares closed at $179.07 Friday evening.
Too many travelers, too few planes is U.S. airlines’ 737 MAX summer dilemma Normally U.S. airlines compete to sell tickets and fill seats during the peak summer travel season. But operators of the grounded Boeing 737 MAX are facing a different problem: scarce planes and booming demand. The grounding of Boeing Co’s fuel-efficient, single-aisle workhorse after two fatal crashes is biting into U.S. airlines’ Northern Hemisphere spring and summer schedules, threatening to disarm them in their seasonal war for profits. “The revenue is right in front of them. They can see it, but they can’t meet it,” said Mike Trevino, spokesman for Southwest Airlines Pilots Association and an aviation industry veteran. Southwest Airlines Co, the world’s largest MAX operator, and American Airlines Group Inc with 34 and 24 MAX jetliners respectively, have removed the aircraft from their flying schedules into August. Southwest’s decision will lead to 160 cancellations of some 4,200 daily flights between June 8 and Aug. 5, while American’s removal through Aug. 19 means about 115 daily cancellations, or 1.5 percent of its summer flying schedule each day. Low-cost carrier Southwest, which unlike its rivals only flies Boeing 737s, had estimated $150 million in lost revenue between Feb. 20 and March 31 alone due to MAX cancellations and other factors. So far airlines have said it is too soon to estimate the impact of the MAX grounding beyond the first quarter, but the extended cancellations signal that they do not expect a quick return of Boeing’s fast-selling jetliner. The 737 MAX was grounded worldwide in March
Mercedes sells more than 600 Maybach models a month in China
Hubertus Troska, a board member of Daimler AG presents the new Mercedes Concept EQA car during the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, Germany September 12, 2017 Daimler’s China chief said sales rose 3 percent in the first quarter, defying an overall downturn in demand in the world’s biggest car market, thanks to robust demand for ultra luxury vehicles like the Mercedes S-Class Maybach. “The Maybach it is still going excellent. Demand is more than 600 a month,” Daimler’s China chief Hubertus Troska told reporters at the Shanghai Auto Show. Despite increasing the list price for the car, demand has risen from a sales rate of 500 a month, Troska said. China’s move to lower value added tax will help boost overall demand for cars for the rest of the year, Troska added. “I am cautiously optimistic that we can see positive momentum,” Troska said.
Galaxy Note 10 Leak Exposes Samsung’s Massive Mistake
Employees walk by the end of a 737 Max aircraft at the Boeing factory in Renton, Washington, U.S., March 27, 2019 following a fatal Ethiopian Airlines crash just five months after a Lion Air crash in Indonesia. All on board both planes were killed. Boeing is under pressure to deliver an upgrade on software that is under scrutiny in both crashes and convince global regulators that the plane is safe to fly again, a process expected to take at least 90 days. The timing of a prolonged grounding could not be worse for Northern Hemisphere carriers. Planes run fullest during June, July and August, when airlines earn the most revenue per available seat mile, according to U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics. In a letter to employees and customers on Sunday, American Airlines’ top executives said they believed the MAX would be recertified “soon” but wanted to provide their customers reliability and confidence during “the busiest
travel period of the year.” American was cancelling about 90 flights per day through early June, but runs more flights and has less fleet flexibility in the peak summer travel months. “We’re not denying that it’s going to be a challenge for us,” American spokesman Ross Feinstein said. “That is why if we have to extend cancellations based on aircraft availability we will do so as far in advance as possible.” A decline in seat capacity could mean higher last-minute summer fares, particularly for business class travelers, aviation consultants and analysts said. United Airlines, with 14 MAX jets, has largely avoided cancellations by servicing MAX routes with larger 777 or 787 aircraft, but the airline president, Scott Kirby, warned last week that the strategy was costing it money and could not go on forever.
Samsung’s Galaxy Note 10 looks like a truly massive upgrade. But an overlooked snippet of information suggests that scale may actually be its biggest problem… Yesterday a report from the excellent ET News was widely picked-up because of news Samsung is making no-less than four Galaxy Note 10 models. This is due to the Note 10 and its new budget Galaxy Note 10e counterpart coming out in 4G and 5G editions. But what was overlooked were the implications of how big you’ll have to go to get the top model. ET News states Samsung will size up the Galaxy Note 10 to an eye-watering 6.75-inches the largest display ever put in a flagship device. For that, you’ll get a new quad camera array and a huge battery. By contrast, the Galaxy Note 10e will be a more manageable 6.28-inches but limits you to the Galaxy S10’s triple camera array and a significantly smaller battery. Yes, Samsung has decided that if you want the best tech it has to offer then you’ll need to buy a smartphone with a display just 0.25-inches smaller than its Galaxy Tab 7 tablet. It’s a woeful backwards step, at exactly the wrong time. Right now, both Apple and Google are heavily promoting not just the quality of their smartphones’ cameras but the fact that, regardless of size, their premium models share the same optics. There’s no size penalty for those who prefer a smaller device but still want top-of-the-line photography. Pixels have always done this, but the irony is Samsung also used to offer parity when Apple was irritating customers by giving the Plus range preferential treatment. Google knew. Apple learned. Samsung forgot. So, as impressive as the Galaxy Note 10 appears (and that is very impressive indeed), it looks like anyone who doesn’t want a device requiring hands the size of a baseball glove will be treated as second class citizens. That’s dumb. Size still matters Samsung, but your view of how is stuck in the past…
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BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY WORLD NEWS
Hacker group posts hundreds of law officer records Authorities were investigating Saturday the online posting by a hacker group of the personal information of hundreds of federal agents and police officers apparently stolen from websites affiliated with alumni of the FBI’s National Academy. The Associated Press counted at least 1,400 unique records of employees of the FBI, Secret Service, Capitol Police,
U.S. Park Police and other federal agencies as well as police and sheriffs’ deputies in North Carolina and Florida. The records included home addresses and phone numbers, emails and employers’ names. The FBI National Academy Associates said in a statement that the information, posted late Thursday, appears to come from the websites of three local chapters of the nonprofit, which claims nearly
17,000 members nationwide and in 174 countries. It said it was working with federal authorities to investigate. The group said its national database was unaffected. It said the three affected chapters were using third-party software but said it was “too early to determine if this impacted the breach.” “If it is determined that there
World’s largest plane makes first flight over California The world’s largest aircraft took off over the Mojave Desert in California on Saturday, the first flight for the carbon-composite plane built by Stratolaunch Systems Corp, started by late Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, as the company enters the lucrative private space market. The white airplane called Roc, which has a wingspan the length of an American football field and is powered by six engines on a twin fuselage, took to the air shortly before 7 a.m. Pacific time (1400 GMT) and stayed aloft for more than two hours before landing safely back at the Mojave Air and Space Port as a crowd of hundreds of people cheered. “What a fantastic first flight,” Stratolaunch Chief Executive Officer Jean Floyd said in a statement posted to the company’s website. “Today’s flight furthers our mission to provide a flexible alternative to ground launched systems, Floyd said. “We are incredibly proud of the Stratolaunch team, today’s flight crew, our partners at Northrup Grumman’s Scaled Composites and the Mojave Air and Space Port.” The plane is designed to drop rockets and other space vehicles weighing up to 500,000 pounds at an altitude of 35,000 feet and has been billed by the company as making satellite deployment as “easy as booking an airline flight.” Saturday’s flight, which
The world’s largest airplane, built by the late Paul Allen’s company Stratolaunch Systems, makes its first test flight in Mojave, California, U.S. April 13, 2019 saw the plane reach a maximum SpaceX and United Launch speed of 189 miles per hour and Alliance - a partnership between altitudes of 17,000 feet, was Boeing and Lockheed Martin. meant to test its performance and Stratolaunch has said that handling qualities, according to it intends to launch its first rockets Stratolaunch. from the Roc in 2020 at the earliest. Allen, who co-founded Allen died in October 2018 while Microsoft with Bill Gates in 1975, suffering from non-Hodgkins’ announced in 2011 that he had lymphoma, just months after the formed the privately funded plane’s development was unveiled. Stratolaunch. “We all know Paul would have been The company seeks to proud to witness today’s historic cash in on higher demand in achievement,” said Jody Allen, coming years for vessels that can Chair of Vulcan Inc and Trustee put satellites in orbit, competing of the Paul G. Allen Trust. “The in the United States with other aircraft is a remarkable engineering space entrepreneurs and industry achievement and we congratulate stalwarts such as Elon Musk’s everyone involved.”
Lyft pulls electric bikes in three U.S. cities after complaints about braking Lyft Inc is removing several thousand electric bikes from service in its bike-share program in New York, Washington and San Francisco because of a braking problem, the ride-hailing company said on Sunday. “We recently received a small number of reports from riders who experienced stronger than expected braking force on the front wheel,” the company said in a blog post emailed to customers on Sunday. The company’s bike share division is working to replace about 3,000 pedal-assist bikes in New York, Washington and San Francisco with traditional bikes to prevent service A Lyft bicycle is shown at the Lyft listing on the Nasdaq during an IPO event in Los Angeles, interruptions. The company already California, U.S., March 29, 2019 operates about 17,000 traditional bikes in those cities. “After a small number of deploy soon. The bike share brands reports and out of an abundance of Lyft, which went public in that were impacted by the service caution, we are proactively pausing March, bought Citi Bike operator removal include Citi Bike in New York, Capital Bikeshare in our electric bikes from service, said Motivate last year in a move to Washington D.C., and Ford GoBike Citi Bike spokeswoman Julie Wood. fend off competition from rival “Safety always comes first.” Uber Technologies Inc’s purchase of in the Bay Area. The company said it had electric cycle-sharing startup JUMP Some of the electric bikes are still on docks but customers will been working on a new electric Bikes months before. bike model that would be ready to no longer be able to rent them.
has been felonious activity, we well prosecute the culprits to the fullest extent of the law,” said the group, which is based in Quantico, Virginia, home to the academy. The AP is not identifying the hackers’ website. A linked Twitter account says the group is based in Ukraine. The hack was first reported by the news site TechCrunch.
New Samsung handset: Innovation hinges on folding screen When Samsung said this year it would launch a smartphone with a folding screen, the big question was whether the innovation was something people actually wanted or needed. Is the Galaxy Fold a gimmick to help sell more smartphones in a slowing market or a true breakthrough that will change how we use our devices? Major manufacturers have in recent years been largely updating smartphones with marginal improvements like better cameras and face scanning technology, so skepticism has been high. The South Korean electronics company this week offered the media a hands-on preview ahead of the release in the U.S. this month, and the first impression is that a folding screen in some circumstances might be a useful innovation — but at a cost of almost $2,000 it won’t be a mass market product anytime soon. As people increasingly use their phones to do data-hungry tasks like view photos on Instagram and watch movies or TV shows on YouTube or Netflix, Samsung says the case for a folding phone has become clear: People want bigger screens but they also want a phone they can carry around in their pocket. Skeptics might say that folding phones are a sign that the smartphone industry has run out of good ideas and fallen into an innovation malaise. Samsung isn’t alone. Little known Royole started selling its FlexPai in China last year while Chinese tech giant Huawei announced its own folding phone, the Mate X, days after Samsung’s announcement. Closed, the Galaxy Fold is about 6.3 centimeters wide and 16 centimeters long (2.5 by 6.3 inches). It felt like holding a TV remote control, but heavier. The phone’s two panels are held shut by magnets, so a bit of force is needed to get it open. With a little practice I was able to do it one-handed by jamming my thumb between the two sections to pop them apart. Samsung spent nearly five years working on the hinge, which went through more than 1,000 prototypes. It uses cogs and gears to give it a smooth feel and has two open positions. First, it unfolds to 140 degrees — handy if you want to put it down on your desk but still need to angle part of the screen for a video call, for example. Bend it further and the screen silently and solidly opens to a flat position. To close the phone, you click it out of the open position and snap the sides shut. Fully open, there’s plenty of real estate on the Galaxy Fold’s main screen, which measures 7.3 inches (18.5 centimeters) diagonally. It’s great if you want to take and review photos, watch videos or read e-books without squinting. Multi-tasking is also possible with up to three apps open at the same time. Wide open, the Fold felt more like a small tablet than a smartphone, which suggests that one possible market is people who want both kinds of devices but don’t want to buy two. As with anything that folds, there’s a crease. It runs down the center of the screen and is visible at certain angles, though I didn’t really notice it when using the apps. Samsung developed a new adhesive to glue the composite polymer screen together, and promises it can withstand being opened and closed 200,000 times, or 100 times a day for five years. The Fold has a second screen, a long, narrow display, on one of its outer panels, so you can continue using apps while it’s closed. I tried out a few — YouTube and car racing game “Asphalt” — that transitioned seamlessly between both screens. It could, for example, be useful to consult Google Maps in detail on the big screen before setting off, then put it in your pocket and quickly check the directions en route. But I’m still not convinced that “app continuity” is something I need.
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TURKS & CAICOS SUN
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
IMMEDIATE OPENING Spa Manager *
Requirements: • Minimum of 5 years’ experience as spa manager at luxury spa of similar size and status • Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience • Strong written and verbal skills with documented responsibility for promotions sales and marketing. • Merchandising/visual skills; experience with retail products and apparel goods. • Knowledge of current trends In luxury spa facilities and services • Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties Include: • Manage the day to day operations of the Fitness Center and Spa Facilities • Maximize profitability by increasing sales of products and services and by managing effectively • Ensure high quality of facility and services to meet international luxury and brand standards and earn global recognition and awards • Experience developing and implementing effective preventative maintenance programs • Demonstrated experience in development budgets and cost saving measures • Develop annual operating and Capex budgets, monitoring and adjusting as needed Starting salary $50,000 per annum not including service charge.
Landscaping Project Manager*
Requirements: • Minimum of 5 years’ experience in managing the landscaping department of a 5 star Luxury Caribbean Resort. • Post-secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience • Expert knowledge of Zone 9 Caribbean landscaping. • Vast knowledge in horticulture, native plant species and chemical usage towards the prevention of plant disease and insect control. • Must have extensive experience with Irrigation systems and landscape maintenance. • Must have strong supervisory skills and demonstrated experience managing a grounds department. • Must be able to give direction and expertise in areas of basic landscaping, tool safety, chemical usage and operation of lawn equipment. • Must be able and Willing to work all shifts and days Duties Include: • Impeccable maintenance of grounds and landscaping. • Assists in supervising and participating in grounds work. • Ability to identify areas for improvement and keeps abreast of latest trends in regards to plants, irrigation, landscape maintenance and chemical applications. • Ensuring proper utilization and maintenance of equipment. • Managing overall cleanliness of work, storage and space areas.
A/C Technician*
Requirements: • Minimum of 3 years experience as an IT Technician • Post secondary degree or equivalent qualification by experience • Must have experience working with Opera and Visual One, Mitel Phone System, Cisco CCTV System, Fiber Optic Music System (fiber optic), Micros, Data Works and Premier Spa • Must be able to respond quickly and effectively to diagnose and resolve hardware and software problems for all systems, and document tracks and reports on deficiencies, progress and follow-up • Must read, speak and write English fluently • Must be able to work all days and shifts and be on call for emergency service request Duties Include: • Providing routine maintenance of hardware, software and systems • Installing/configuring computers/telephones and point of sales equipment and other systems equipment. • Installing, maintaining and repairing wifi system equipment • Installing/maintaining/repairing CCTV System • Repairing/upgrading hardware and software. • Troubleshooting printers/scanners/copiers. • Maintaining inventory of equipment and supplies. • Maintaining server room(s) and ensuring proper security for such. • Completing system backups according to required schedule. • Providing infrastructure support
Waiter/Waitress*
Duties Include: • Serve food and beverages to guests in a prompt manner and anticipate guest needs. • Knowledge of food and beverages on the menu included mix drinks and be aware of any menu items which are not available. • Prepare and arrange food or drinks that are attractive and appetizing to the guests. Starting wages $6.25 per hour plus service charge.
Furniture Conservator - Restorer Manager*
Responsibilities • Establish and/or implement operating procedures and standards for the restoration department. • Team working, in order to work with a range of other professionals and Managers. • Project management, including the ability to work under pressure and to deadlines. • Organizational and creative problem-solving skills • Be able to work on a number of projects concurrently • Source materials for use in the conservation and restoration process. • Observing and assessing the state of a piece of furniture to decide on the best way to restore or conserve it. • Combining specialist knowledge of furniture with practical techniques in order to prolong and protect the survival of a piece of furniture. Requirements • Education: High school diploma • Experience: Minimum of five years in position is required • Experience in AutoCAD, 3D Studio, Sketch Up, Excel, Microsoft Office • Conversant with computers • Strong oral and written communication skills, including the ability to write briefs, promote and explain complex information clearly. • High Knowledge of types of materials for furniture construction, refurbishment, fabrics, bonding agents • Good drawing skills, including perspective drawing and spatial awareness. Starting salary $33,000.00-$37,000.00 per annum.
Mechanic Technician*
The chosen candidate must have knowledge and experience in repair and maintenance including preventative maintenance to prevent down time on commercial laundry equipment including 250lb washer, flat ironer, folding machines, steam dryers, valet equipment, boilers, 150hp boiler feed tank, steam water heater and chemical injection system.
Duties Include: • Maintain proper preventative maintenance to laundry equipment and boilers. • Maintain proper inventory on designated parts to avoid down time. • Maintain proper amount of chemical injection on boiler feed tank and proper conductivity at boilers. • Preventative maintenance to steam traps and steam lines. Starting salary $7.00 -$9.00 per hour plus service charge
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.
*POSITIONS MARKED WITH (*) ARE POSITIONS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. Interested applicants can apply in person at The Palms’ Human Resources Department on Monday through Friday between 9am – 5pm. Please bring along with you an updated resume that will be attached to your completed application form. Applicants can also email their resumes to careers@thepalmstc.com, no later than end of day, Friday April 5th, 2019. For further information, please do not hesitate to contact us at 946-8666.
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
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IMMEDIATE OPENING 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 of china, dishes etc. are available • Assisting in ensuring the training of and proper daily use of all safety, hygiene and sanitation
Spa Therapist/Technician *
Requirements: • Diploma in massage therapy or equivalent. • Prior experience in a 5-star luxury environment. • Extensive knowledge of Eastern style massage, wraps, facials and other treatments. • Proficiency in English. • Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Duties Include: • Providing spa treatments to resort guests and day spa guests. • Maximize the revenue of the department through massage and retail product sales. • In addition to performance of the essential functions, this position may be “required to perform a combination of support functions • Starting salary $6.25 per hour not including service charge, commission
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 tag out), 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.
Labourer*
Duties Include: • General laborer duties as assigned by the supervisor or manager. • Willingness to work varying schedules, split shifts, nights, weekends and holidays. Salary $6.25 an hour not including service charge.
*POSITIONS MARKED WITH (*) ARE POSITIONS CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. Interested applicants can apply in person at The Palms’ Human Resources Department on Monday through Friday between 9am – 5pm. Please bring along with you an updated resume that will be attached to your completed application form. Applicants can also email their resumes to careers@thepalmstc.com, no later than end of day, Friday April 5th, 2019. For further information, please do not hesitate to contact us at 946-8666.
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Jerome Jean-Eddy In Grand Turk Is seeking one Mason - $9.00 per hour Duties: Layering building materials such as bricks, concrete, tiles and other construction materials Is seeking one Carpenter – $9.00 per hour Duties: Building plans to meet the needs of clients. Install structures and fixtures, such as windows and molding To work 5 days a week Please Contact: 242-1358 These positions are new Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders should also send copies of their application to the Labor Board #230209
Elesibatha Square Ltd.
MBA Construction Location: #58 Tumpa Ave, Blue Hills, Providenciales Is seeking (1) Tile Worker and (1) Carpenter Duties include: cutting tiles, using wet saws, tilescribes, or handheld tile cutters to create even edges Duties: building plans to meet the needs of clients. Install structures and fixtures, such as windows and molding. Measure, cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials. Must be able to work 6 days per week Both Salaries are $10.00 per hour Please Contact: 242-3450 These positions are currently held by a work permit holders Applicants who are Turks & Caicos islander should also copies of their application to the immigration board 230210
Jennifer Iron & Welding
Location: Leeward Highway, Providenciales Is seeking a Maintenance Supervisor $10.00 per hour Duties: Oversee and coordinate the workers who maintain and repair electrical, plumbing, ventilation and other building systems Is seeking (2) Carpenters - $12.00 per hour Duties: Building plans to meet the needs of clients. Install structures and fixtures, such as windows and molding To work 6 days a week These positions are new Please Contact: 231-0271 or 346-6455 Interested Applicants who Turks and Caicos Islanders should submit Copies of their application to the Labour Board
Is seeking a Steel Worker In Grand Turk Duties: Build and install iron or steel girders, columns, and other construction materials to form buildings, bridges, and other structures. Salary $200.00 per week Must be able to work 5-6 days per week Please Contact 232-4240 This position is currently being held by a worker permit holder Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders should also send copies of their application to the Immigration/Labour Board.
Inel Faustin
Ange Toussaint
Location: Five Cays, Providenciales Is seeking a Disk Jockey (DJ) Duties: play music in parties, clubs, discs, etc. They are required to mix and match the music to suit the mood of the event This applicant must be on call To work 6 days a week Salary: $7.00 per hour This position is new Please Contact: 345-3982 Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders should also send copies of their application to the Labor Board #230205
Holton Dickenson
Location: Grace Bay, Providenciales Is searching for a Babysitter To work 6 days a week Salary is $6.25 per hour Duties include Babysitting a child, cooking, cleaning and must be able honest, trustworthy and speaks English Interested Applicants Please Call: 244-2888 This position is new Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders should also send copies of their application to the Labor Board. #230204
Tonika Saunders
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
Stenia Elizabeth Simlett Location: Grand Turk Is seeking a Domestic Worker Duties are providing regular housekeeping This may include sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, laundry and cleaning dishes To work 5 days a week Salary $6.50 per hour Please Contact: 441-2803 This position is new Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders should also send copies of their application to the Labor Board
#230208
JaMalCo Ltd.
To work 5 days a week Salary is $6.25 per hour Please Contact: 232-2623 This position is new Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders should also send copies of their application to the Labour Board #814101
E. Candace Hanchell Location: Long Bay, Providenciales Is looking for 1 Family Caregiver The job will include care for 1 elderly Female and 1 Sick Adult Male Employee must be willing to work 6 days per week, weekends and holidays At a rate of $6.50 per hour This position is new and all applications Interested Belongers must submit their application to the Immigration Board Please telephone #332-3458 and email applications to candacehanchell@gmail.com
ISLAND VIBES TOURS
ISLAND VIBES TOURS
Location: Turtle Cove Landing, Shop #17, Providenciales SEEKS Tow Inboard and Outboard Engine Mechanics Duties: repair engines, repair all electrical problems and have some knowledge of fiberglass work. To work 6 days a week and must be on call Must have at least 5- 10 years experience Salary $7.50 per hour Please Contact 231-8423 One of these positions is new and the other is currently held by Work Permit Holder Interested Applicants who Turks and Caicos Islanders should submit Copies of their application to the Labour Board
Location: Turtle Cove Landing, Shop #17, Providenciales Is seeking a Fleet Captain Duties: Must have good people skills, very knowledgeable of the craft, CPR and first ad certified and must have a current boat captain license and SCW certified To work 6 days a week and must be on call Salary: $7.50 per hour Please Contact 231-8423 This position is currently held by a Work Permit Holder Interested Applicants who Turks and Caicos Islanders should submit Copies of their application to the Labour Board
LODIE N. BROOKS
Wisline Bien-Aime Location: Kew Town, Providenciales Is seeking a Babysitter To do general cleaning Duties include babysitting a child Must be able honest, trustworthy To work 6 days per week, 8:00am-5:00pm Salary $6.50 per hour Please Contact: 343-0549 This position is new Interested Applicants who Turks and Caicos Islanders should submit Copies of their application to the Labour Board #230211
# 230212
# 230212
Seeks to employ a Labourer In Grand Turk At a salary of $200.00 per 5 day week The successful candidate will be required to maintain the owner’s property by trimming trees, cutting grass and cleaning the yard Applicants who Turks and Caicos Islanders are required to submit their applications to the immigration Board Zone 1 and Tonika Saunders at Tel no. 241 1595. Please note that this position is new
In South Caicos Is seeking a Labourer To assist with construction work Must work 6 days per week Salary: $ 6.25 per hour Please contact 241-4356 This position is currently held by a work permit holder Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders are encouraged to send a copy of their application to the Immigration Board
Pro Tennis Academy TCI LTD
LUDELL GOLDMAN
Super Value
In South Caicos Is seeking a Domestic Worker To work 5 days per week Duties include house cleaning, cooking and laundry Salary: $ 6.25 per hour Please contact 243-1773 This position is currently held by a work permit holder Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders are encouraged to send a copy of their application to the Immigration Board
Location: Leeward Palms, Providenciales Is seeking a Domestic Worker Cleaning house, laundry, ironing, cleaning windows and other Domestic chores Must be honest and trustworthy
Location: F202 Regent Village, Grace Bay, Provo Seeking 25 Construction Helpers Duties: Assist construction craft workers with various tasks; clean and prepare sites, machinery and equipment. Salary: $6.25/hr; 42 hrs/wk Position currently held by work permit holders. Closing date for applications is April 26, 2019 Applications can be dropped off at the office, Immigration Board, and/or emailed to jmc@tciway.tc
Needs a Labourer In Salt Cay Duties may include cleaning and preparing a job site, loading and delivering materials, and using a variety of tools and machines Salary $7.00 per hour To work 5 days per week Please Contact 241-8459 This position is currently being held by a worker permit holder Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders should also send copies of their application to the Labor Board
Location: Providenciales Is looking for an Assistant Coach Level 3 ITF Qualification: 10 years of experience as Coach or in management of tennis school Salary is $12.00 an hour Must be able to work 6 days a week New Assistant Coach must: •Teach tennis 6 to 8 hours a day •Develop the mini-tennis club for kids •Coach the elite junior of TCI •Teach private lessons to the local community, and tourist •Teach adults and kids groups of all levels •Organize activities, festivals and tournaments for kids and adults •Support the community Interested applicants please email: infoprotennisacademytci@gmail.com This position is currently held by a Work Permit Holder. Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders should also send copies of their application to the Labor Board
Audrey Ewing
Location: South Caicos Needs A Sales Person to work in the store Must be able multi-task; use a cash register, packaging, storing meat and produce, stocking groceries on shelves and assist in cleaning Must be able to work extra hours if necessary, especially on weekends. Must be able to work 6 days a week Salary is $7.00 an hour This position is currently held by a Work Permit Holder Please Contact: 331-4475 Interested Applicants who Turks and Caicos Islanders should submit Copies of their application to the Labour Board
CBMS 131 South Dock Road, Providenciales Is seeking a Parts Inventory Controller Salary: $9.00 an hour To work 5 days a week Duties: Oversee inventory and supply chain management according to company guidelines and perform critical inventory tasks to ensure the correct amount of items are in stock. Please Contact: 331-0221 or 941-3400 This position is new Interested Belongers must submit their application to the Immigration Board
Rejouvenance Spa LTD Location: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking Spa Therapist applicants •Duties and requirements: Available to work 9am-7pm every day, weekends and holidays are a must. •They own vehicles in excellent working order and clean license for Out Call spa services. •5 year’s experience as a therapist with spa rated 4 stars or above and relevant International Beauty and Massage Therapist degrees and certification on IPL laser. •Excellent written and verbal communication. Salary $6.50 per hour (plus commission) Position currently held by work permit holder Qualified candidates should send resume to frontdesk@rejouvenance.com or call Phone: 649-432-7546 Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders should also send copies of their application to the Labor Board.
Hon. Amanda Misick
Location: Grace Bay, Providenciales Is seeking (1) Gardener and (1) Domestic Worker Gardener Duties: Responsible for weeding, planting, pruning and watering as well as the general maintenance and appearance of the grounds. Domestic Worker Duties: is providing regular housekeeping. This may include sweeping, mopping Both must be able to work 6 days a week Salary is $6.25 per hour Please email: misickamanda@gmail.com These positions are new Interested Belongers must submit their application to the Immigration Board
#863809
Sharel Talbot Location: Blue Hills, Providenciales Is seeking a Babysitter Duties include Babysitting a child, cooking, cleaning and must be able honest, trustworthy and speaks English To work 6 days a week Salary $6.25 per hour Please Contact: 244-0921 This position is currently held by a work Permit Holder Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders should also send copies of their application to the Labor Board. #230203
Oceanaire Bistro
Location: North District, Salt Cay Is seeking a Waitress •Must have a pleasant personality, commend of the English Language, greeting and sitting customers •Taking orders and serving food, checking with clientele to ensure that they are enjoying their meals and if there are any complications solve immediately without creating a scene. • Receive cash, cheques or credit card payments, issue receipts and change. To work 6 days a week Minimum wage $6.50 per hour Please send resume to Oceanaire Bistro Tel: 649231-6028 This position is new Interested Applicants who Turks and Caicos Islanders should submit Copies of their application to the Labour Board
Landscape TCI Ltd.
Is seeking (4) Landscapers - $8.00 an hour Duties: planting flowers, grass, shrubs, and bushes and perform routine maintenance duties such as applying plaster, fixing fountains, and other duties Is seeking (1) Labourer - $6.50 per hour Duties: Responsible for doing manual work requiring high physical fitness and strength to construct structures or buildings To wok 6 days per week and flexible hours Please Contact: 331-0221 Three of the Landscapers are new positions and one is renewal The Labourer position is new Applicants who are Turks & Caicos islander should also copies of their application to the immigration board
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
YOU CAN REGISTER NOW !!!
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
TEL: (649) 343-1595 / 946-4701 or 332-0013
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WORLD
TURKS & CAICOS SUN
APRIL 19TH, 2019 – APRIL 26TH, 2019
SPORTS
Woods wins Masters to claim first major in 11 years
Tiger Woods completed one of 18th green to put the finishing touches sport’s greatest comebacks to end an 11- on a milestone victory. year major title drought at the Masters When his final tap in bogey on Sunday by claiming a fifth Green putt disappeared into the cup, Woods Jacket. delivered one of his trademark fist A gritty two-under 70 clinched pumps and then raised both arms in the a one-shot victory over Dustin Johnson, air while screaming in absolute delight as Brooks Koepka and Xander Schauffele the crowd chanted, “Tiger, Tiger, Tiger”. and earned the 43-year-old a 15th major He then quickly spotted his title that many thought would never family and raced over to hug his children come and instantly sparked talk of before making his way to the scorers Woods making a run at Jack Nicklaus’s room while being congratulated by his record of 18 majors. fellow golfers who lined the way. Not since the 2008 U.S. Open “I was just trying to plod my had Woods hoisted a major trophy and way along the golf course all day,” said the last of his four Augusta titles came in Woods. “When I tapped the putt in, I 2005. don’t know what I did but I know I Tiger Woods of the U.S. celebrates on the 18th hole But after a beaming Woods screamed. after winning the 2019 Masters slipped on his fifth Green Jacket, he will “To have my kids there – it’s “A truly Great Champion!” be aware that Sunday’s win has brought come full circle. My dad was here in 97 Nicklaus, 23-times tennis grand him tantalizingly close to another (when he won his first Masters) and now slam winner Serena Williams, Super Bowl Nicklaus record - that of six Augusta I’m the dad with two kids there.” champion Tom Brady also applauded titles. Along with coping with a the victory on Twitter while swimmer The victory also marked the first number of injuries over the past decade, Michael Phelps, the winner of a record time Woods had reached the winner’s Woods also had to deal with the damage 23 Olympic gold medals, was at Augusta circle at major without leading after 54 done from a very public and scandalous National to cheer Woods on. holes and broke Gary Player’s record divorce and an embarrassing DUI arrest. Written off as too old and too (13 years) for the longest gap between Woods’s return to the top beaten up from four back surgeries Masters wins. garnered praise from world leaders and multiple knee operations, Woods It also gave him 81 PGA Tour and sporting greats alike, with United underwent a back fusion procedure in titles, one away from the career record States president Donald Trump and his 2017 and slowly returned to form. held by Sam Snead. predecessor Barack Obama both offering He ended last season by winning Woods’s girlfriend Erica Herman, congratulations via social media. the Tour Championship and showed mother Kultida and two children Sam ` “Congratulations to @ signs of a breakthrough at the majors and Charlie watched while a massive TigerWoods,” tweeted Trump, who by being a title contender at last year’s gallery roared as he marched up to the earlier this year played golf with Woods.
African soccer whistleblower fired after accusing boss of corruption African soccer’s ruling body has fired a senior official after he made corruption accusations against the organization’s president in a potential blow to FIFA’s efforts to clean up the game after a raft of scandals worldwide. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) sacked general secretary Amr Fahmy after the Egyptian accused his boss Ahmad Ahmad of bribes and misuse of hundreds of thousands of dollars, according to officials and an internal document. The document, sent on March 31 by Fahmy to a FIFA body that investigates alleged ethics breaches and seen by Reuters, accuses Ahmad of ordering his secretary-general to pay $20,000 bribes into accounts of African soccer association presidents. They included Cape Verde and Tanzania. The document also accused Ahmad of costing CAF an extra $830,000 by ordering equipment via a French intermediary company called Tactical Steel. Furthermore, it accuses him of harassing four female CAF staff, whom it did not name; violating statutes to increase Moroccan representation within the organization; and overspending more than $400,000 of CAF money on cars in Egypt and Madagascar, where a satellite office has been set up for him. Senior CAF officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Fahmy was fired after compiling the document with the allegations against Ahmad, from Madagascar, who took the top African soccer post two years ago. CAF confirmed to Reuters that Fahmy lost his job at an executive committee meeting in Cairo on Thursday, prior to the draw for the Africa Cup of Nations finals. It declined to give more details about the reason for his dismissal. “There’s no explanation. It’s the Executive Committee decision,” communications director Nathalie Rabe said in an email exchange with Reuters on Sunday. Ahmad, who is also a vice-president of world governing body FIFA, did not respond to requests for comment on the allegations against him.
British Open, where he led in the final round, and PGA Championship, where he finished runner-up. All those moments built to Sunday, when Woods was once again his old familiar dominating self. “I had serious doubts after what transpired a couple years ago,” said Woods. “I could barely walk. I couldn’t sit. Couldn’t lay down. I really couldn’t do much of anything. “Luckily I had the procedure on my back, which gave me a chance at having a normal life. “To have the opportunity to come back like this it is probably one of the biggest wins I’ve ever had for sure because of it.” All eyes were on overnight leader Francesco Molinari, who led by two shots, Woods and the weather when play began on Sunday as the race for the Green Jacket turned into a final sprint with the forecast predicting rain and thunderstorms. In a desperate attempt to get the season’s first major across the finish line before the storm hit, officials pushed up start times and sent golfers off in threesomes from both the first and 10th tees. Paired together in the final round of last year’s British Open, won by the Italian at Carnoustie, Molinari and Woods found themselves in the last group again battling for a major title.
Magic Johnson: The Real Reason He Quit The Lakers & LeBron James’ Role In His Departure Magic Johnson had a ‘legacy’ to look out for, and not just a desire to return to his ‘beautiful life,’ when he decided to step down as the Los Angeles Lakers’ president. Here’s how this will affect LeBron James’ career. The Los Angeles Lakers‘ wins to losses ratio for the 20182019 NBA season was 37-45 and the team’s former president of basketball operations, Magic Johnson, couldn’t ignore the numbers. “Magic was not having any fun in his role with the team because the Lakers were not winning and weren’t going to be good anytime soon,” a source close to Magic, 59, EXCLUSIVELY tells HollywoodLife. The Lakers haven’t come out with more wins than losses since the 2012-2013 season, and so our source continues, “Magic is only familiar with winning. It was a really rough year where things didn’t work out so much in so many ways, that he just wanted to get away and have fun again.” “[Magic] has so many things on his plate that leaving the Lakers was an easy decision for Magic,” our source continues. “Though it upset a lot of people, he feels that it was the right decision. He wants to be the Magic [that] Lakers fans remember from the ‘Showtime Era.’ And he didn’t want to taint his legacy with the team being so bad because the blame would all fall on him, so leaving now was what needed to happen in his eyes.” Magic’s legacy includes winning the NBA’s MVP award three times during his 13 years playing as a point guard for the Lakers. Naturally, all eyes turned to LeBron James, 34, after Magic
Magic Johnson takes the mic at a Boston Red Sox vs. Los Angeles Dodgers game in Los Angeles on Oct. 27, 2018 stepped down as the Lakers’ push him out is as far from the president on April 9. Magic was the truth as possible,” the insider says, one who signed the NBA legend and further explains, “LeBron is onto the Lakers in 2018, and upset that Magic quit because this we’ve learned if LeBron — who summer for the Lakers is going had a winning streak with the to be very interesting and very Cleveland Cavaliers from 2014 trying. The team might have to to 2018 — “pushed” Magic out of look for a new coach along with his leadership role. “Absolutely replacing Magic’s job as president of not! LeBron didn’t have any basketball operations. Plus they will clue that Magic was making this be bringing in many new players, decision,” a source close to LeBron so next season is going to have lots EXCLUSIVELY tells HollywoodLife. of changes. So that will be a worry Our source even notes that their but there was no bad blood.” relationship was “pretty great” and But could Magic’s they “were both in the mindset resignation result in a promotion that they wanted the Lakers to be for LeBron — specifically, as both better and were working on getting general manager and player? there,” so LeBron can’t help but feel “There has been zero talk with a little abandoned, according to the the team and LeBron about this second source. happening,” a source close to the “LeBron respects Magic but Lakers and LeBron EXCLUSIVELY he was blindsided by his quitting tells HollywoodLife. “LeBron would and is upset that Magic took this be interested in owning a team way to leave and put it on LeBron’s after he retires, but as his career shoulders to worry about this off- continues in the NBA, he will only season. He will forgive Magic in a be a player and that is what the short time from now, but saying Lakers want as well.” that he had any connection to
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WORLD SPORTS
Hamilton back on top after landmark win in China
Wilson sticks with Seahawks, becomes highest paid player
Russell Wilson is sticking around with the Seattle Seahawks as the highest paid player in the NFL. Wilson posted a video on social media early Tuesday saying, “Seattle, we got a deal,” shortly after agreeing to a $140 million, fouryear extension with the Seahawks, his agent Mark Rodgers told The Associated Press. Wilson’s new deal runs through the 2023 season and includes a $65 million signing bonus, a no-trade clause and $107 million in guaranteed money. Wilson’s per year average of $35 million tops Aaron Rodgers’ average annual salary of $33.5 million as part of the $134 million extension he signed last year with the Green Bay Packers. Wilson’s current $87.6 million, four-year deal was signed at the beginning of training camp in 2015 and was set to expire after next season. “Russell’s goal and his hope was that he would continue his career with the Seahawks and continue to bring championships to this town,” Rodgers said. “He believes there is still unfinished business and he is looking forward to pursuing that without having Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton celebrates winning the race to worry about contracts and his Five times world champion Lewis Hamilton future.” returned to the top of the Formula One standings The 30-year-old Wilson on Sunday with a comfortable victory in China that had set a midnight deadline for a ticked off two more milestones in an already stellar new deal with Seattle. He wanted career. certainty about his contract before The 34-year-old, already one of only three the start of the team’s offseason drivers to have won five or more titles, wrote another workout program, which began on page in the record books as the winner of the 1,000th Monday. Wilson showed up for the world championship race since the first in 1950. first day and by the end of the night He also claimed a landmark 75th career was posting a video with wife Ciara F1 victory, placing him just 16 shy of Michael announcing the agreement. Schumacher’s all-time record tally of 91. The deal ends the debate “I was just thinking how delicious that was,” about Wilson’s future with the Hamilton, who also won the 900th race in 2014, told Seahawks, although there seemed reporters after leading team mate Valtteri Bottas in a to be little doubt he would remain third successive one-two finish. in Seattle for a while. The team held “It really has been an interesting first three leverage knowing it likely had races. “We, as a team, definitely didn’t expect to have three one-twos, but now I’m proud to have been part of the work that everyone has done and to be a part of these results,” added the Briton. The victory also extended Hamilton’s already unprecedented tally of victories in China to six. Mercedes are the first team since Williams in U.S. President Donald 1992 to start a season with three one-twos in a row, Trump on Monday said he would Hamilton leading two to Bottas’s one. award Tiger Woods the Presidential Ferrari looked dominant in Bahrain, only to Medal of Freedom after the golfer lose out on victory with Charles Leclerc due to an won the Masters for the fifth time engine problem 10 laps from the end, and neither of on Sunday. the Mercedes pair expected Sunday’s result. “Spoke to @TigerWoods Even when it became clear the silver cars had to congratulate him on the great the edge around the 5.4-km long Shanghai circuit, it victory he had in yesterday’s @ was Bottas who was leading the charge by taking pole TheMasters, & to inform him ahead of Hamilton. that because of his incredible Until race day, Hamilton had looked strangely Success & Comeback in Sports ill at ease with his car. (Golf) and, more importantly, The Briton sealed the win at the start, LIFE, I will be presenting him with however, beating Bottas off the line and settling into the PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF a lead he would never give up. FREEDOM,” Trump tweeted. “A little bit of a struggle this weekend for me, The victory on Sunday but once I got into qualifying, a little bit of a shift was one of the greatest comebacks in driving style enabled me to unlock a bit more in sports history, as the 43-yearpotential with the car which Valtteri was clearly able old ended an 11-year major title to do,” said Hamilton. drought having overcome personal “And then the start was obviously great, and professional setbacks including which was really the decisive moment I’d say for the a highly-public divorce and race.” multiple surgeries. Hamilton is now six points clear of Bottas, The one-stroke win who collected an extra point in Australia for the at Augusta National led to an fastest lap, with the Azerbaijan Grand Prix next up. outpouring of support from sports The Briton struggled there last year before greats and politicians including inheriting a lucky win from Bottas, who suffered a Trump. puncture with three laps remaining. Trump, an avid golfer, and “I think as a team, we’re not going to get Woods have played together in the ahead of ourselves, and we’re naturally going to past including in February when the continue to get our heads down and keep working,” pair joined golf great Jack Nicklaus said Hamilton. for a round at Trump National Golf “We’ve got another close battle on our Club in Jupiter, Florida. hands.” Trump appeared to follow
FC quarterback Russell Wilson of the Seattle Seahawks runs onto the field during player introductions before the NFL Pro Bowl football game against the AFC in Orlando, Fla at least three more seasons with Wilson under center. Even if he played out 2019 under his current deal, Seattle could have used the franchise tag if needed to keep him under contract through 2020 and 2021 at a reasonable price by quarterback standards. But the extension allows Seattle to budget for the future knowing how to work with Wilson’s hefty paycheck in the years ahead and build a contender around the former third-round pick that has developed into a franchise QB. Wilson’s new deal was going to have to top the extension signed by Rodgers before the start of last season. Wilson was the secondhighest paid player in football behind Rodgers when his deal was signed in 2015, but had fallen to the 12th highest-paid QB in the league, according to Overthecap.com. The five-time Pro Bowl selection is coming off arguably his best season as Seattle went a surprising 10-6 and earned an NFC wild card before losing to Dallas in the opening round of the playoffs. It was supposed to be a rebuilding
year, but the Seahawks were ahead of schedule thanks to their return to a run-first offense and Wilson’s exceptional performance when tasked to throw. The 5-foot-11 Wilson threw for a career-high 35 touchdowns and matched his career low with seven interceptions. He attempted only 427 passes — his lowest total since his second season when Seattle won the Super Bowl — but his efficiency was a career best with a 110.9 passer rating. He also ran only 67 times, a career low, as the improved run game and offensive line play allowed Wilson to stay in the pocket more and scramble for his life less. It was a stark change from the 2017 season when Seattle missed the playoffs for the first time under Wilson. He led the league in touchdown passes, but also was Seattle’s leading rusher due to a non-existent run game. The idea of Wilson ever leaving Seattle has always seemed a stretch. Teams simply don’t give up on quarterbacks with the kind of success he’s had. Wilson has led the Seahawks to the playoffs in six of his seven seasons, the only miss coming in 2017 when Seattle finished 9-7. He won a Super Bowl in his second season and got back to the championship game a year later before making the one major mistake of his career that will linger until he wins another title, throwing a goal line interception in the final minute when the Seahawks had a chance to take the lead on New England. Wilson has shelved the stigma of short quarterbacks being unable to play in the NFL. He’s also been extremely durable, never missing a game while playing through significant knee, ankle and shoulder injuries.
Trump to award Tiger Woods the Presidential Medal of Freedom
Patrick Reed places the green jacket on Tiger Woods of the U.S. after Woods won the 2019 Masters the action at this year’s Masters closely, tweeting well-wishes to the field on Saturday and encouraging people to tune in when Woods had the lead with just two holes left to play on Sunday. “Congratulations to @TigerWoods, a truly Great Champion!” Trump tweeted shortly after Woods sank a short putt to secure his 15th major title. “Love people who are great under pressure. What a fantastic life comeback for a really great guy!” he added later. The medal is the highest
civilian honor in the United States and is given annually to people who have made outstanding contributions to the security or national interests of the country, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors. Since taking office Trump has given the award to several athletes including former professional NFL players Roger Staubach and Alan Page and late professional baseball player George Herman “Babe” Ruth, Jr.
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