VOLUME 15 ISSUE 48

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

Website: www.suntci.com

VOLUME 15 - NO. 48

Email: sun@suntci.com

Tel: (649) 348-6838

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Fax: (649) 941-3281

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EX-CONS COMMITTING CRIMES Police Commissioner says a ‘small number of people’ harming TCI

By Todeline Defralien

R

epeated offenders and ex-convicts are the main persons behind the rise in crime throughout the islands, according to Commissioner of Police Trevor Botting.

Addressing a press conference on Wednesday November 27th, 2019, Botting said: “We do have repeated offenders here. I cannot give you the actual figures but I know from my own experience. I’ve been here about three to four years and it’s the same names circling around. It’s relatively a small number of people creating this harm. The TCI is largely in terms of serious crime is law-abiding people and I know for a fact, because it’s the same names keep cycling around and since I’ve been here there have been people I’ve known well that have been to prison twice for the time that I’ve been here.”

As the Turks and Caicos Islands enters its winter tourists season, Botting has expressed great concern about the number of firearms offences and number of robberies the country is experiencing.

He noted that there has been “a fairly dramatic and unacceptable” rise in firearms-related crime, with 86 this year compared with 35 last year, while there were 84 robberies this year as against 55 last year.

Against that background, Botting added that Turks and Caicos Islands, like other countries, has a problem with prison and what prison should be.

Cherline Dabel wins Pitch Please Grand Finale & $20,000 grand prize Cherline Dabel of Grand Turk, took home the $20,000.00 grand prize for her startup, Aunty Nann’s Homemade ice cream.

On November 29th the Grace Bay Resorts Foundation held their Grand Finale to Pitch Please, the first of its kind locally filmed and produced TV show, aimed towards bridging the gap between

“Is it just about to lock you up and just throw away the key but actually prison should be a chance for people to come out rehabilitated and take a different path in their life even if serious crime. I do know that there’s lot of conversations going around the prison about how the best way to rehabilitate people and get

funding and startups by placing budding entrepreneurs and investors in the same room.

The two-month filming included Business Plan writing with the CED, Financial planning with Invest TC, Sessions with Toast Masters, Legal sessions and the list goes on, all at no cost to the contestants.

them back out. ... I accept that everyone will make their transition and that is what I mean when I said that you cannot force or police your way out of a serious gun crime problem, because you got this cycle of people going in and for a period of time you’re a bit safer because that one person who was committing hard crime is locked

Pictured is winner Cherline Dabel, Nikheel Advani, Chief Operating Officer of Grace Bay Resorts, Nolan Smith, Director of the Foundation and mastermind behind the Pitch Please initiative, Johnna Messam, Alexa Cooper-Grant, VP of SME Development at Invest TCI and the other competitors.

up but at some point they will be back out,” Botting explained.

Botting further emphasized that if you don’t break offenders’ cycle and change their environment or give those alternatives, then unfortunately they will end up with the same cycle again and again.

Continued on page 2

Consumer Protection law now ready, announced Premier In the most recent House of Assembly meeting, Premier and Minister for Finance, Hon. Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson announced that her Government has completed all of the reviews and regulations necessary to bring into force the Consumer Protection Ordinance.

In presenting an Amendment Bill, she announced that the Bill will come into force on December 7th.

The enactment of consumer protection legislation will allow for the establishment of a national framework aimed at preventing unfair, deceptive and fraudulent business practices, receiving

complaints and conducting investigations.

Commenting on the Ordinance, Premier Robinson stated: “This will be a game changer. Consumers now have a system to lodge complaints. We will ensure that consumers are educated as to the objectives of the Bill. I know that our people will indeed welcome this development.”

In support of the entry into force of this key piece of legislation, the Department of Trade, Industry and Consumer Affairs will conduct a rigorous sensitization exercise across the Turks and Caicos Islands to educate businesses and consumers on the requirements of the

Ordinance.

The Director of Trade, Mrs. Merida Cable-Lewis, stated: “The enactment of consumer protection legislation is significant in the Government’s response to the realities of today’s global marketplace. It allows for the safeguard of consumer rights, promotion of fair trade, competition and the dissemination of accurate information in the marketplace.

We will work along with public and private stakeholders to ensure the implementation of an effective and efficient national framework for the protection of consumer Premier and Minister for Finance, Hon. interests.”

Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson

RESILIENCE

You Can Rely On www.fortistci.com | 649-946-4313

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

LOCAL NEWS

EX-CONS COMMITTING CRIMES

continued from page 1

He added: “This is going to be a whole government and a whole country approach to this. It’s normal things from employers giving people who’ve just come out of prison a chance which is what ‘Chance for Change’ is but until we kind of can make those changes, then we will have this cycle of offending and locked up. It’s a challenge; it is not an easy one.”

Botting stressed that the TCI is in a position where, if it gets certain things right, this country can be extraordinarily safe, but it cannot just be policing issues.

“Police officers can be really frustrating to be having to hunt down dangerous people who were recently locked up and

we know that they’ve had no change in their life, so we know that they are still dangerous and that’s a real challenge for the policed force and the country,” he added.

The Commissioner stated that prison is supposed to remove persons from creating more crime from the public first, take them off the streets, incarcerate them and take away certain rights and freedoms.

He said that is right and proper because if the offenders terrorize the public then they should be locked up.

“Critically, if you’re going to have a society that is going to develop, then we’re going to need really good

rehabilitation in the prison. While we all accept that there are some people that won’t be rehabilitated because we’re human beings and that’s going to happen. Giving people choices to a better and different future is really important and if you’re going to break that cycle of offending. If somebody spends time in prison, gets no rehabilitation, doesn’t gain any extracurricular qualifications and gets nothing to help them in terms of the way they think and their behavior, when they come back out and they go back into the same environment you could see the cycle and it’s not just unique to the TCI,” he explained.

Commissioner of Police Trevor Botting

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

DRIVING DEALS! AFTERNOON RATES FROM $80

Group & Private Lessons Children 15 & under play free* 3, 5 day, weekly & monthly passes available

THE FEHERTY PACKAGE $220

18 holes, Titleist Club Rentals, 2 sleeves of balls and $20 F&B Voucher

FAIRWAYS BAR AND GRILL

Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Sunday Brunch

CHILDREN WELCOME

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DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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LOCAL NEWS

Suspected cases of hand foot and mouth disease in TCI

There have been reports of cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in Providenciales, according to the Ministry of Health, Agriculture Sports and Human Services.

The Primary Health Care Department is in the process of collecting specimens to be sent to the Caribbean Public Health Agency for confirmatory testing. In the meantime, Primary Health has embarked on an enhanced surveillance and education campaign to ensure that suspected cases identified as quickly as possible and schools and daycare facilities are educated on proper implementation of prevention and hygiene measures (e.g.

hand washing).

HFMD is a contagious viral illness that primarily affects infants and children younger than 5 years old.

It is transmitted by direct contact with nasal secretions, (droplets produced by coughing or sneezing), saliva, fluid from blisters and stool of infected individuals.

HFMD is most prevalent in child care settings due to frequent contact with soiled diapers and children putting their hands in their mouths. HFMD occasionally occurs in adolescents and adults.

Symptoms include some or all of the following: painful sores in the mouth, rashes on the hands and feet,

which may be associated with blisters, fever, headache, feeling generally unwell or irritable, runny nose, and/or sore throat. It is mostly a mild and selflimiting illness lasting for a few days.

However, there are more severe, albeit uncommon, forms of the disease which are associated with neurological complications as a result of meningitis (associated with fever, headache, and neck stiffness) and encephalitis (resulting in paralysis). Affected persons can sometimes be contagious for days or weeks after the symptoms have ended

There is no specific treatment for hand-foot-and-mouth disease.

Symptom control, such as the use

of paracetamol (Panadol or Tylenol) for fever and pain relief, is often all that is necessary. In some cases, HFMD can cause a sore mouth and throat, which makes it difficult to swallow.

It is therefore important to maintain adequate fluid intake to avoid dehydration that could result in hospitalization.

Symptoms usually resolve within ten days.

Persons with suspected HFMD should abstain from school and report to a healthcare provider to obtain guidance, including when to return to work, school or daycare.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIRMENTS This position requires a minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or equivalent professional qualification and four (4) years post qualification-practicingexperience.

THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS NATIONAL INSURNACE BOARD EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY A vacancy exists at the Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board for anAccountantat its Head Office in Grand Turk. Applications are invited from suitably qualified and experienced Turks and Caicos Islanders to fill the post.

ROLE AND CORE FUNCTIONS OF JOB •Supervision of staff in the Finance & Accounts Department.

•Preparation of Monthly Financial Statements.

•Reconciliation of Balance Sheet and Income Statement accounts, which includes the various Schedules, with the General Ledger •Compilation and reconciliation of monthly investment report from all investment managers •Review and assist with the compilation of payroll data.

•Ensures the reconciliation of various bank accounts.

•Provision of financial support services to departmental managers across NIB. •Assistance with the preparation of annual budgets.

•Ensures proper accounting and security of cash.

•Ensures the completion of the Fixed Assets Register •Assisting with asset management.

•Assistance with the training and the development of staff in the department.

•Assisting with the development and implementation of financial management systems to protect the resources of the Board.

•Acts as Financial Control in her absence •Perform such other duties and responsibilities as may be determined by the Financial Controller from time to time.

Knowledge and skills must also include the following: •Project management skills •Highly developed communications skills •Business Writing and Financial reporting skills •Computer and Information technology application for financial data management, analysis and reporting •Investigative skills •Human and financial resource management skills and team building skills •Budgeting •Development of internal control systems This position requires the frequent use of analytical reasoning and visual dexterity especially when incumbent is: •Assisting with the development of financial management systems to ensure the security of NIB’s assets.

•Reconciliation of Balance sheet and Income Statement Accounts •Reviewing of Fixed Asset Register and assisting with asset management •Assist with the preparation of the budget.

•Assisting with the training and development of staff in the accounting department.

The salary scale for the position is $40,000 to $55,000 and is subject to negotiation.This position is currently held by a work permit holder.

Applications giving full details of qualifications and experience should be sent to the Deputy Director Corporate Services, National Insurance Board, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands to reach no later than Friday, December 6, 2019. All prospective applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders should also send copies of their application to the Labour Departmentin the Turks and Caicos Islands.

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

LOCAL NEWS

First Annual 12th Month Musical Festival for Turks and Caicos Islands

A collaborative effort between Carpé Dream, Digicel, Hard Rock, Seafood Haven and TCI’s Most Wanted, DJ Shakes promises to be the biggest event of the year.

Organizers say mark your calendars for December 27th 2019 as international dancehall sensation, the ‘trending gal’ Shenseea, and our very own TCI’s Most Wanted DJ Shakes and Mixology Sound will hit the main stage.

Organizer of the 12th Month Musical Festival and the Founder of the TCI-based event production company, Carpé Dream, Jajuan Harvey hints additions to the already highly anticipated lineup.

“There’s still more to come. This is more than a music festival, it’s an experience”. Harvey said. “The idea is to bring local and international talent on one stage come December 27th and that is what we are going to do; so everyone stay tuned.”.

Dancehall megastar Shenseea be an organizer of this event but to be a is a popular female Jamaican Artist and part of the lineup as well.”

Organizers also revealed their is expected to rock the stage as she performs her original chart toping songs plans to make this event an annual one like Trending Gal, Shenyeng Anthem, of the TCI and hopes that the name 12th Blessed and much more. Shenseea has Month Music Festival boosts the level of already confirmed her arrival to the TCI anticipation all year round.

“This is the kind of entertainment come late December to headline the 12th Month Musical Festival in a promotional we need and deserve in the TCI and it’s video that has gotten region wide the perfect way to end 2019 and bring in the New Year with good music, good attention on social media.

Harvey added: “Shenseea is a vibes and great energy.” DJ Shakes added, top notch in the dancehall arena right “With the public support we are going to now and while she’s no stranger to the bring something new and exciting each TCI, this will be the first time she has and every year.”

Still in the final planning ever performed here and she is expected to really give the crowd the kind of stages flyers have been revealed with performance you see on the big stages information headlining artists, dates, partners and sponsors. around the world.”

TCI Most Wanted, DJ Shakes is one of the “We say a big thank you to all TCI’s top DJ’s and is well known for his of our supporters and sponsors.” Harvey unique, energetic and passionate delivery added. “We could not have done this of music at local and international events. without you and from December 27th DJ Shakes said, “I’m excited to not only and beyond we look forward to

Jajuan Harvey (right) and DJ Shakes continue working with you in taking entertainment to the next level in the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

Organizers say that a portion of the proceeds from the 12th Month Music Festival will go towards a donation for a musical program for the youth in the TCI.

Civil Service mourns the loss of Ricardo Ewing

The Turks and Caicos Islands Civil Service mourns the loss of a dear colleague Ricardo Ewing who suddenly passed away on Sunday December 1, 2019.

Ricardo joined the civil service on September 3rd, 2012 as an Assistant Customs Officer.

Deputy Governor and Head of the Civil Service Her Excellency Anya Williams said he was a hardworking,

polite and dedicated civil servant who took great pride in his job and in assisting others.

She stated: “He will be greatly missed by his colleagues in the civil service and by members of the general public that he interacted with in the carriage of his duties, truly demonstrating the trait of “service with a smile”! We extend our deepest sympathy to his family most especially his

father Ricardo Ewing and Step Mother Sarah Knight-Ewing; his Grandparents Stanley and Irene Lightbourne; Grandmother Cecily Ewing; Siblings Gabrielle Roberts, Melia Harvey, Renaud, Recaz and Lilly Ewing and other family members. As the pain of losing a loved one is hard, we pray for your strength and peace at this difficult time. May his soul rest in eternal peace!”

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES! The Financial Services Commission (FSC), the regulator of financial services business in the Turks and Caicos Islands, is seeking suitably qualified applicants to fill several vacancies.

APPLICATION DEADLINE 23 DECEMBER 2019 DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF FINANCE Department: Finance Location: Providenciales Annual Salary: $59,552.50 – $68,982.50 JOB SUMMARY The holder of this position will report to the Director of Finance.

The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting with statutory financial compliance, compliance with international financial reporting standards and collecting, reviewing, analyzing and reporting of data from all departments. The post holder will be required to supervise staff.

Details on the above vacancies can be found on the Commission’s website at https://tcifsc.tc/vacancies/ or by contacting the Commission at telephone numbers 649-946-2550 or 649-946-2791 ext. 4002 or 4021.

Applications should be emailed to administration@tcifsc.tc no later than 23 December 2019. A copy of the application should be submitted to the Employment Services Department by emailing to CHbacchus@gov.tc and MCadams@gov.tc. Applications received after the application deadline may not be considered in this recruitment phase but may be placed on file for future reference. While we appreciate your response, please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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LOCAL NEWS

75 Public Servants receive certified Public Service Administration (PSA) Training

To strategically position the Turks and Caicos Islands Civil Service to respond effectively to change, the Training and Development Unit under the guidance of the Deputy Governor’s Office and sponsorship from the Professional Development Fund trained seventy-five (75) team members in the Continuing Professional Development Certificate Program: Pubic Service Administration (PSA).

The program is anchored on the Core Values of the Public Service as illuminated in the Public Service Handbook (2016) as being high-quality service to clients, professionalism, accountability, transparency, ethical, integrity, honesty and impartiality. To ensure that the skills being learned are practical and transferrable, participants were tasked with a live project that required the use of current project management principles.

Specific emphasis was placed and managing public funds in keeping with the relevant Regulations and Ordinances, reporting,

documentation, and, monitoring and evaluation.

The Public Service Administration program is the first of this nature and depth to be offered by the institution and CPD accredited. The program was developed by the Training and Development Unit in collaboration with DODS Group UK and conducted

by DODS Associate Trainer, Mr. Kevin Rowswell over a period of four weeks from September 9, 2019 to October 11, 2019 on Providenciales and Grand Turk.

Each cohort underwent five intense days of training and are expected to dedicate fifteen (15) hours post-contact to complete and submit a final project under the guidance of their immediate supervisor. Upon successful completion, participants will be globally certified as Public Service Administrators.

Commenting on the training program Her Excellency Deputy Governor, Anya Williams stated; “With the rapid growth in world economies due to globalization and technological

advancements, governments around the world are required to do business differently than in the past, hence, the continued efforts of the Turks & Caicos Islands Government to align with world standards and best practices. Areas such as; maintaining the professional office, organizational communication, office information systems and institutional processes, events and project management and professional communication were the main focus of this training program and the participants are now fully equipped to continue to offer excellent service to the public.

“I applaud this entire group because successful completion of a program such as this requires dedication, sacrifice, and discipline. I am certain they will continue to display characteristics that are parallel with the mission, vision and core values of the Turks and Caicos Islands Civil Service during and after training.”

Local Government review and modernization proposal survey launched

The Office of the Premier, Local Government and Community Affairs has launched an initiative to strengthen and enhance the operation, management and effectiveness of the current District Administration and to explore areas that can be transformed by modernization, improved and to ensure its continued effectiveness in delivering the needs of the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Hence the creation of a survey to hear the General Public’s various opinions on the Local Government Review and Modernization Proposal.

The Local Government Review and Modernisation Committee was established to facilitate a comprehensive review of Local Government administration performed

by individuals from a cross section of Government and District Administration experience to effectively formulate a report that will guide the establishment of the most suitable model of local government for the Turks and Caicos Islands with special attention to the islands that have limited access to crucial Government services.

The goal of the Local Government Review and Modernisation Committee is to: 1. To review the current structure in light of single constituency and all island elected representatives; 2. To review other regional models.

3. Engage in community consultations to ascertain the concerns of the populace in relation to strengthening

World Tech Telecomm

Location: In Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

Resources Profiles The ASP Field Resources must have the following skills: This profile will be validated prior by Ericsson base on resumes (CV’s) previously provided by Supplier.

Technical Competences (RAN O&M) Proof of experience on installation, equipment configuration and troubleshooting, mandatory with experience on RBSs Ericsson.

Years of experience in similar positions: • O&M Power/RAN Technicians and Riggers: More than 2 years.

•Field Supervisor (if applicable): more than 5 years.

Technical expertise in Telecommunications. Minimum technical degree on Electronics, Telecom, Electrical, System or Computer area.

•Troubleshooting and solve skills for RBS & Tx Microwave alarms.

•Knowledge in IP and SIU configuration (Expert Level for Supervisor and basic level for O&M RAN Technicians) •Good oral and written communication adaptable to different work groups and situations. Official language for this contract is English.

•Have knowledge of loading configuration scripts, using interfaces such as CMD, CVs, OMT, Element Manager, Minilink Craft, Excel, Word, etc.

•Trained in OSH and basic AC/DC Power RBS backup system: Gensets, DC Batteries, ATS. Technical Competences (Tower Riggers) •Positions: More than 2 years •Work in height certification •Trained in OSH •Good expertise in usage of Field Test Equipment required: Site Master, optical Power Meter, Millimeters.

•Experience in repairing/replacing RF Jumpers/feeders, connectors and adjusting Antenna Tilt/Azimuth and Antennas replacement.

•Experience in tower maintenance activities: tighten loose bolts/wires (lattice tower), tower painting, repair ground cabling/bars, check and repair lightening system, obstruction light replacement.

Technical Competences (Power Field Technicians) •Years of experience in similar positions: More than 2 years •Trained in OSH •Good expertise in usage of Electrical Field Tests Equipment required: Millimeters, Current Clamp.

•Experience in preventive and corrective maintenance of Diesel Power Generators (12-30 KVA), Batteries, Power Transfers and DC Rectifiers.

•Previous experience in PCB-02/05 Cabinets and control units desirable.

•Experience performing Batteries Discharge Tests and Midtronics or similar equipments.

Technical competences (Auxiliar Technicians De-bushing) •Years of experience in similar positions: More than 1 years •Experience in grass cutting and de-busing services •Local Resources desirable Behavioral competences •Good personal presentation (example: not to wear shorts) •Quality and problem solving oriented •Maintains a constant communication flow with partners, colleagues and customers •Delivering Results & Meeting Customers Expectations •Analyzing •Applying expertise & technology •Following instructions & procedures •Actively contribute to continuous improvement •Cooperate and adapts quickly to teamwork •Give feedback of the work in timely manner and accept the feedback given to him/her •Show respect All of these positions are New Positions Please Contact: 231-8300 Please Email: worldtechtelecomm@gmail.com Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders can send copies of their resume to the Immigration Board.

local government and district administration.

4. To make recommendation to the Premier for the modernisation of TCI’s model via a report that will be submitted to Cabinet for consideration and implementation.

We appreciate and value your time in participating in this important survey. The Office of the Premier, Local Government and Community Affairs look forward to hearing your feedback on this review of Local Government.

To take the survey, visit the link: https://www. surveymonkey.com/r/localgov

Ocean Vibes Scuba & Watersports Ltd based in Provo and Grand Turk Location: PO Box 584, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Is seeking the following positions: WHALE WATCH GUIDE (GRAND TURK) Must have a degree in marine biology/biological sciences OR actual knowledge and expertise working with Atlantic humpback whales, data collection, working with adults and children, able to develop and execute a comprehensive whale watch program to include educational interaction for primary and secondary schools. Salary is $1600 per month. This is a 3 month position only.

PARASAIL BOAT CAPTAIN (PROVIDENCIALES) Must be able to operate a high volume parasail boat. Inspect and ensure all parasail equipment, vessel, and crew are safe for daily operations. Salary $400- 450 per week.

PARASAIL BOAT MATE (PROVIDENCIALES) Must be trained in and have experience working on parasailing boats, operating parasailing chutes, briefing guests on safety procedures, assisting captain with launch and landing, rescuing passengers in emergency situation. Salary $300 per week LABOURER (PROVIDENCIALES) Cleaning boats at the end of day, helping with maintenance, sanding, painting, office and yard cleaning.

Salary $7 per hour All applicants must have proof of experience, clean police record and references; captains must have licenses. Working hours are between 4-7 days a week including weekends and public holidays. To apply please send resume, copies of certifications, proof of experience and references to gtshoreexcursions@ gmail.com.

These are all new positions Interested applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders should submit copies of their applications to the Labour Board.

NOTICE Regulation 7 of the Physical Planning (Development Permission) Regulations, 1990 An Application REGISTERED PR 13936 by Nadine Borel Giese has been submitted to the Department of Planning for consideration of Development Permission on parcels 60810/136, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147 & 148, The Bight & Thomas Stubbs on Providenciales, which will be rezoned from Medium Density Residential (R4) to Commercial Related Development (C1).

The subject planning application is for the regularization of an existing development, consisting in a Nursery and Storage buildings.

Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Emily House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of publication of this Notice.

Dated Posted: __________________________________________

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

LOCAL NEWS

Report from December 4th Cabinet meeting

His Excellency the Governor, Jolly Primary School, Block 60503 Parcel Government Complex, Providenciales Nigel Dakin, chaired the 29th meeting of 288, Blue Hills Providenciales.

- TR 19/27, Port Lighting project, lights the Cabinet on Wednesday 4 December installation and trenching excavation in the Office of the Premier, Durham’s •Approved recommendations for for South Dock, Providenciales Building, Grand Turk. amendments to the National Parks Order under the National Parks Ordinance, as •Noted an Information Paper on the All ministers attended. no Environmental Impact Assessment contract award for the supply of for the relevant protected areas is computer equipment and firewall At this meeting Cabinet: required, as previously thought, as the devices in line with the process as recommended alterations are classed as required by the Public procurement •Approved a request from Grace Bay non-contentious and are for extensions Ordinance.

Suites to allow the resort to benefit from to, or reclassifications of those areas, duty concessions on the importation of rather than reductions.

AOB: furniture, fixtures and fittings under the Refurbishment Policy.

•Approved a sand mining application •Approved an application by Emerald submitted by Lucayan Holdings Ltd to Point Ltd for a 25-year licence to •Approved the Turks and Caicos Island mine Block/Parcel 51100/18 in North establish a terminal groyne of 6,000 Government becoming a Government Caicos and Middle Caicos, pursuant square feet for beach protection seaward Associate Member of the World Council to s.7 of the Mineral (Exploration) of Parcel 609901/118, Leeward through of Credit Unions.

Ordinance.

Providenciales.

•Approved appointments to the Investment and Risk Committee and the Audit Committee for the Turks & Caicos Islands National Wealth Fund..

•Approved commercial development planning applications for GT 4723, Block 10503 / Parcels 75, 77, 82, 84, 86, 88, 91, 92 and 123 for Combination and Mutation of the subject parcels to create ten (10) lots on Grand Turk

•Approved a recommendation to amend the Library Ordinance to support the betterment of library services in TCI. •Was updated on the progress of the implementation of the Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence in all public schools as a standardised curriculum for lower Secondary classes (Forms 1 – 3).

•Approved the grant of a long-term lease, with the option to renew, to Grand Lucayan Resorts Ltd from Parcel 10503/91, 92 and 123pt, for construction and operation of a modern Villa Hotel and Multiplex Centre.

•Confirmed its earlier approval of amendments to the extension of the expiry date in the Physical Planning Ordinance through an Amendment Bill 2019 from 24 months to 66 months, and confirmed its approval for the finalised Bill to be transmitted to the House of Assembly.

•Noted the recommendations of the •Approved planning application PR Public Procurement Board on the 13638 for re-zoning of parcel 60713/20 award of the following contracts which from (R1) low density residential to T01 followed the process as required by the Tourism Related Development in order Public Procurement Ordinance: to construct residential villas at Turtle -TR 19/14, Refurbishment to DECR •Confirmed its earlier approval of Cove, Providenciales.

Building, Providenciales amendments to the Road Traffic -TR 19/18, Booster pump, water Ordinance regarding vehicle tints.

•Approved planning application PR undertaking, Pump House repairs, 14509 for the construction of the Early Grand Turk Further information on these matters Childhood Classroom Block at the Oseta TR 19/21, Consultancy services for will be provided in due course.

Turks and Caicos Sun

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

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.

INTERISLAND AVIATION SERVICES GROUP SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES WHICH ARE:

Aircraft Mechanic: Certification from an accredited institution,with A&P License,2-3 years or more experience.Dependable,innovative,strong team player,can work independently.

Salary $42,000 per year.

interCaribbean Airways, Provo Air Center, Flight Support Limited, Caribbean Aviation Maintenance Services has the following position(s) currently held by work permit holders available for immediate filling:

Ground Equipment Mechanic: 5 years or more experience with diesel engines and hydraulics.Wages $24,000 per year.

Airline Executive:Must have a working knowledge of UK Aviation Regulations for OffShore Territories(OTAR),ICAO AND IATA aviation practices and standards,US FAA Federal Aviation Regulations(FAR) and dangerous goods Regulations,Experience and knowledge of ramp and aircraft operations.Must speak,read,write and understand the English Language.

Additional requirements include the ability to physically carry out the work scope involved.

Providing managerial and administrative responsibility for the domestic and international based operations.Ability to make responsible,strategic and tactical decisions that might affect safety and /or security of ground handling and station operations.Ability to provide proper management of all station managers with respect to supplies,documents,manuals and other equipment that is required for proper station operation.Salary $3500 per month.

Pilots for EMB 12O Fleet: 2-5 years experience,must be current on aircraft type with valid medical and must be able to obtain US crew visa.Salary $60,000 per year.

Pilot for DH6: 2-5 years experience must be current on aircraft type with valid medical and must be able to obtain US crew visa. Salary $42,000 per year.

Customer Service Agents: Must have 1-2 years experience in the aviation industry,computer literate,hardworking,reliable and trustworthy,reliable and trustworthy with a valid police record and passport.Willing and able to work weekends and holidays.Wages $9.00 per hour.

Airport Host: Must have 1-2 years experience in the aviation industry,computer literate,hardworking,reliable and trustworthy,reliable and trustworthy with a valid police record and passport.Willing and able to work weekends and holidays.Wages $9.00 per hour.

Security Officer: 1-2 years experience,excellent command of the English Language,both verbal and written.Must be reliable and trustworthy with a valid TCI drivers license,current police record and valid passport should also be computer literate. Wage $9.00

Upholsterer: 2-3 years experience and the ability to work independently and long hours.

Salary $24,000 per year Driver: Must have a valid TCI drivers license,2-3 year experience in driving reliable,dependable,team player, be able to work long hours.Wages $8.00 per hour.

Flight attendant: Great customer service skills, must have excellent command of English Language(oral and written).Willing to work weekends and holidays. Valid passport with US visa required.Wages $1600 per month.

Cashier: Must have 1-2 years experience in the aviation industry,computer literate,hardworking,reliable and trustworthy,reliable and trustworthy with a valid police record and passport.Willing and able to work weekends and holidays.Wages $9.00 per hour.

Concierge: Must have 1-2 years experience in the aviation industry,computer literate,hardworking,reliable and trustworthy,reliable and trustworthy with a valid police record and passport.Willing and able to work weekends and holidays.Wages $9.00 per hour.

Ramp Agent/Attendant: Must have 3-4 years experience in ramp duties, with supporting certification in dangerous goods, weight and balance and security. Must be fluent in the English Language,computer literate, hard working, reliable and willing to work weekends and holidays. Wages $9.00 per hour Ramp Coordinator: Must have 3-4 years experience in ramp duties, with supporting certification in dangerous goods, weight and balance and security. Must be knowledgeable with ICAO and IATA aviation practices and Standards, fluent in the English Language,computer literate, hard working, reliable and willing to work weekends and holidays. Wages $11.00 per hour

Flight Dispatcher: 2 years experience,dispatchers license,computer literate, strong work ethic,must be willing to work weekends and holidays. Salary $30,000 per year.

Store Clerk: Must have 3-4 years experience in the purchasing of aviation parts, be knowledgeable with different parts for aircraft types,fluent in English Language,computer literate, hardworking,reliable and willing to work weekends and holidays. Wages $10.00 per hour.

Ramp Agent/Attendant: Must have 3-4 years experience in ramp duties, with supporting certification in dangerous goods,weight and balance and security.Must be fluent in the English Language,computer literate ,hardworking,reliable and willing to work weekends and holidays.Wages $9.00 per hour.

Heavy Duty Driver: Must have a valid TCI drivers license 2-3 years experience in driving heavy duty truck, reliable, dependable, team player, be able to work long hours.Wages $11.00 per hour.

Labourer: Must be willing to perform manual tasks,hard working, reliable and willing to work weekends and holidays. Wages $7.00 per hour.

Concierge: Must have 1-2 years experience in the aviation industry,computer literate,hardworking,reliable and trustworthy,reliable and trustworthy with a valid police record and passport.Willing and able to work weekends and holidays.Wages $9.00 per hour.

Baggage Handlers: Must be to lift over 50 lbs,hard working, reliable and willing to work weekends and holidays.Wages $7.00 per hour.

Ramp Supervisor: Must have 3-4 years experience in ramp duties,with supporting certification in dangerous goods,airline security and weight and balance.Proven leadership abilities, computer literate can manager and discipline a team. Wages $11 Aircraft Cleaners/Domestic Worker: Must be a thorough cleaner, fluent in the English Language,computer literate,hard working,reliable and willing to work weekends and holidays. Wages $7.00 per hour.

Welder: 2-3 years experience,knowledge of using multiple welding machine to repair and maintain equipment and structures of various sizes.Must be willing to work weekends and holidays.Wages $9.00 per hour.

Gardener: 2-3 years experience knowledge and experience to maintain the beauty of plants,outdoor grounds and trees,must be able to perform a range of general maintenance tasks.Wages $7.00 per hour.

Interested persons please send resume to HR@interCaribbean.com. Belongers and PRC holders need only apply

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

LOCAL NEWS

Premier heads TCI delegation at OECD’s Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes

On November 26th and 27th 2019 the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) held their 10th Anniversary Meeting of the Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes (the Global Forum) in Paris, France.

The Turks and Caicos Islands were in attendance at the event with a delegation of 6 led by the Premier and Minister of Finance, Investment and Trade, Hon. Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson.

The forum was specifically geared toward assessing the robust standards that have prompted a tidal shift in exchange of information for tax purposes throughout its member jurisdictions.

According to reports revealed during this meeting, almost all Global Forum members have eliminated bank secrecy for tax purposes, in an effort to reduce tax evasion and to improve tax transparency. The Turks and Caicos Islands were among those jurisdictions making a shift toward increased tax transparency.

Director of the Exchange of Information Unit within the Ministry of Finance, Henry Saunders commenting on the forum stated, “As a small developing state, TCI’s participation on an equal footing for shaping the global standard for combating tax evasion, avoidance and governance brings on a sense of inclusiveness that our values and ideals are being heard for adaption and implementation. The fight to battle aggressive tax planning is real and requires international cooperation and mutual support from participating jurisdictions with common interest.”

The Exchange of Information Unit facilitates the exchange of information with Treaty Partners internationally and domestically, to improve co-operation with internal stakeholders. The Turks and Caicos Islands Government has to-date signed several Tax Information Exchange Agreements (TIEA’s) with negotiations ongoing with a few more jurisdictions.

TCI has also signed onto the Multilateral Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters adding to the list of some 60 plus jurisdictions that have already signed on to date.

Premier Robinson commenting on the globalization of tax transparency stated, “It is of paramount importance that the Turks and Caicos Islands is not labelled as a country or jurisdiction that is non-compliant with evolving tax laws.

TCI has and will continue to remain compliant with global standards as it relates to exchange of information for tax purposes and improve upon our internal and external stakeholder relationships.

Turks and Caicos Islands must ensure its equal participation in the fight against illicit financial transactions and the prevention of terrorist financing by implementing and complying with the agreed international standards.

I am pleased to attend forums like these with the relevant delegates to report on, with validated data, TCI’s position as it relates to global standard compliance and to use these platforms to gain information on how we can improve and widen our knowledge and partnerships internationally.”

Included in TCI’s delegation was, Premier and Minister of Finance Investment and Trade, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Finance, Mrs. Athenee Basden, Senior Legislative Drafter from the Attorney General’s Chambers, Ms. Gogontle Gatang, Mr Henry Saunders, Director for the Exchange of Information Unit, Ministry of Finance and Mr Ronlee James, Executive Director and Lareesa Robinson, Executive Administrator within the Office of the Premier, Local Government and Community Affairs.

This Global Forum brought together more than 500 delegates from 131 member jurisdictions for renewed discussions on efforts to advance the tax transparency agenda.

(from left to right): Mr. Ronlee James, Executive Director of Office of Premier, Local Government and Community Affairs; Mrs. Athenee Basden, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Investment and Trade; Ms. Lareesa Robinson, Executive Administrator, Office of the Premier, Local Government and Community Affairs; Premier and Minister for Finance, Investment and Trade, Hon. Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson; Ms. Gogontle Gatang, Senior Legislative Drafter, Attorney General’s Chambers and Mr. Henry Saunders Director of Exchange of Information Unit, MOF.

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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LOCAL NEWS

CARILEC board of directors meet in Turks and Caicos Islands

The Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC) held its 118th board meeting in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) on Monday, December 2nd, 2019.

This was the last convening of the Board for 2019 and the first-ever board meeting held in TCI in the 30-year history of CARILEC.

Nine Directors represented utilities and attended from St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Vincent, Nevis, St. Eustatius, Antigua, St. Kitts, and the Bahamas, and two Directors representing the associate members were from the US Virgin Islands and Florida, USA.FortisTCI President and CEO Eddinton Powell currently serves as Chairman of the Board. The Executive Director of CARILEC Dr. Cletus Bertin and members of the secretariat also attended.

The meeting, held at FortisTCI’s corporate offices, included a presentation

by FortisTCI Manager of EHS Marcus Francis on the FortisTCI Environmental Health and Safety Management System (EHSMS). This was followed by an update from Bahamas Power & Light, still undergoing extensive recovery efforts due to the destruction caused by Hurricane Dorian in September.

As utilities around the world focus on resiliency and sustainability within the industry, Dr. Michael Spranger, with the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility, made a special presentation about parametric insurance.

With the increase of high impact

and disruptive events, Dr. Spranger explained how parametric insurance coverage for the region could, in the short term, aid utilities and countries needing to recover from qualifying catastrophic events.

Following the board meeting, FortisTCI’s Director of Plant Operations Alvejes Desir led the directors on a tour of the FortisTCI Provo generation facilities. The visit provided the chance for Directors to explore the company’s operational procedures and its strategic investments to deliver safe, resilient, and reliable services to the country.

President and CEO Eddinton Powell said, “FortisTCI is pleased to have hosted the CARILEC Board of Directors in the Turks and Caicos Islands this week.

It was a historic occasion and many of the CEO’s were visiting the country for the first time.”

Mr. Powell continued, “CARILEC plays a pivotal role in bringing together regional expertise and helping map the way forward for the transformation of the energy sector. It is crucial that members of the Board and other partners see firsthand the similarities and differences in operations, particularly in the Caribbean, so that we can learn from each other’s challenges, and work collaboratively to identify opportunities and solutions from which we can all benefit.”

CARILEC is an association of electric energy solutions providers and other stakeholders operating in the electricity industry in the Caribbean,

Pictured in the front row(l to r) is CARILEC Chairman of the Board and FortisTCI President & CEO Eddinton Powell and CARILEC Executive Director Dr. Cletus Bertin. Row two (l to r): Grenada Electricity Company Limited General Manager Collin Cover, ABB International Sales and Marketing Director Gianni Moreno and General Manager of Nevis Electricity Company Limited Jervan Swanston.Row three (l to r): St. Vincent Electricity Services CEO ThornleyMyers, Statia Utility Company N.V. CEO Fred Cuvalay, Antigua Public Utilities Authority General Manager Andre Mathias and CARILEC Secretariat Sonji Baptiste. Row four (l to r): CARILEC Secretariat Cornelia Auguste, St. Kitts Electricity Company Limited General Manager Clement Williams, Tantalus Executive Vice President Hugo Hodge Jr., Bahamas Power and LightCEO Whitney Heastie and St. Lucia Electricity Services Managing Director Trevor Louisy Central and South Americas, and globally.

With over three million electric utility customers and more than 18,000 utility professionals in the region, CARILEC plays a leading role in advocacy, growth,

and sustainability, and offers ongoing training and technical support for its 34 utility members and over 80 associate and affiliate members.

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

LOCAL NEWS

Domestic fire truck commissioned in Grand Turk

HE Governor Dakin, Premier Robinson, Cabinet Ministers, Fire Personnel and TCIAA officials standing in front of new Domestic Fire Turk courtesy of the Governor’s Office.

Almost a decade after its dismantling, the Domestic Fire Service was established on the island of Grand Turk.

With staffing in place and recruitment underway, Premier, Hon Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson joined His Excellency the Governor Nigel Dakin, Cabinet Members, Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, Ministry of Home Affairs personnel and the

community of Grand Turk attended a brief Commissioning Ceremony, held on Monday, December 2nd, 2019.

In bringing remarks, Premier Robinson expressed on behalf of TCIG in its entirety that she is elated to be present for this historic restoration of a critical domestic service in Grand Turk.

Premier Robinson further outlined that financial provision for its procurement was made in her Government’s first

supplementary in February 2018 and in the next two budgets of the 2018/19 and 2019/20 financial year.

Commenting on the commissioning she stated: “Thank you to the TCI Airports Authority who provided coverage under an MOU with TCIG. TCIAA will continue to partner with Domestic Fire Services on the housing for the fire truck.

I am delighted to deliver this

long awaited service to the residents of Grand Turk. Congratulations to the Ministry of Home Affairs and all those who played a role in securing the critical service. I hope that this brand new fire truck will not be needed as frequently but I am happy that it is indeed readily available should there be a need. This surely gives residents hope that the communities of Grand Turk are now safer”.

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 13

It’s Time to Shine

e Regent Village Grace Bay Road

www.jais.tc 649-941-4324

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

LOCAL NEWS

T

Grace Bay Club hosts Employee and Leader of the Year Awards 2019

he Grace Bay Club Resort hosted its annual Concierge).

Employee and Leader of the Year Awards

Leader of the year for 2019 Miguel Ceremony to recognise those who have performed Swann, Director of Guest Services told The SUN, exceptionally well for the year 2019.

“I’m honored because in my position I have to work tirelessly to the end and winning this award

The event was held at the Grace Bay Club Resort on Monday, December 2nd, where is a great honor to be chosen from the same four staff members were recognised for standing leadership team for the work that I have put in. It shows that what I am doing is not going out during the whole year.

Employee and Leader of the Year Awards Winners unnoticed, but the work continues and now were: Leader of the Year: Miquel Swann (Director that you’re a winner you’re no longer in the race of Guest Services), Supervisor of the Year: but now that I’ve won, I am going to work even Ruth Marie Wilson (Housekeeping Supervisor), harder and harder.”

Employee of the Year – Back of House: Tracey

Swann said his job now is to translate or Kemp (Pre-Arrivals Agent) and Employee of the transcend what he is doing to the managers under Year – Front of House: Fitzroy Pendley (Personal himself so that they can continue to shine and

they can have an opportunity to win.

Director of Human Resources, Sheba Wilson said the staff looks forward to these awards each year.

She said, “These persons stood out and they know that they were worth mentioning, being nominated and they are worthy to receive the accolades that they did today and each quarter and more so at the end of the year when we finally select the winners for each of those categories.”

The winners also walked away with goodies and prized from the Resorts to show their appreciation of the staff for their yearlong service.

Photo Credit: Todeline Defralien

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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LOCAL NEWS

International Anti-Corruption Day Message

By Mr. Greg Christie

- Director of Turks and Caicos Islands Integrity Commission

Leaders and citizens all over the globe will recognize International Anti-Corruption Day 2019, on Monday, December 9. We, here, in the Turks and Caicos Islands must also pause to highlight the debilitating consequences of the scourge of corruption and to reflect upon the critical importance of the need for us to be proactive in confronting it.

The responsibility to fight and to resist corruption is not just one that falls to the Government or to a country’s Lawmakers. It is also not one that is to be solely shouldered by the anti-corruption and law enforcement institutions of the State.

The battle against corruption must be owned by each of us, for it starts with our demonstrated values. And, should we fail in this patriotic endeavor, we will all stand to lose.

All of us, particularly those of us who are leaders, in whatever sphere, whether in the public or private sectors, or in our schools, our churches, or our communities, have a responsibility to inculcate in our daily lives, in our conduct, and in the messages that we impart, the highest standards of integrity, character, honesty and ethical behavior. These are the preeminent values of the citizens

of winning societies. They are also the fundamental antidotes for the cancer of corruption.

Those of us who are trustees of the public purse must understand that we are just that. Public money is not ours to do with as we please. It belongs to the people who have reposed in us their trust to faithfully serve their interests, and theirs alone – not our own!

As a Mexico Governor, Javier Corral, pointedly said in March 2017: “He who steals from the government does not just steal a few cents or some millions. He steals opportunities, steals hope, and he steals the rights of people who aspire to a better life”.

Public officials who engage in corrupt behavior, or who abuse their office for private gain, therefore threaten the very fabric of our democracies, for corruption will, among other things, undermine good governance in the affairs of a nation’s government.

Individuals, business-persons and business entities, who pay bribes to public officials, are also morally and criminally culpable.

They, too, must be held equally responsible for the corruption that, by their very conduct, they facilitate and perpetuate.

As the saying goes, it takes two hands to clap and this is precisely the case for many forms of corruption.

Each of us also has a clear responsibility to call out corruption,

Governor’s Message – International Anti-Corruption Day

Being able to trust those in power to work in the best interest of the country, and not themselves, is of paramount importance when building a society that is free, fair and just for all.

In some countries, corruption is widespread and part of everyday life.

Not only are decisions – for instance the award of government contracts or the amount of tax due and who benefits from the public good – bought and sold, but very often access to a public service, or the exercise of a right, has to be paid for. It starts small and then grows like a cancer.

Corruption disproportionately affects those at the lowest ends of the socio-economic scale – making an already difficult life that much harder.

Corruption increases the cost of doing business, reduces government

Mr. Greg Christie -Director of Turks and Caicos Islands Integrity Commission jobs. Unrestrained corruption will also ultimately undermine and destroy confidence in critical public institutions, and it will enable organized crime, terrorism and other threats to human and national security to flourish. And, yes, corruption will also kill!

As we recognize Anti-Corruption Day 2019, let us, therefore, ask ourselves this: Who wins and who loses when corruption goes unchecked? And what role will we commit to play in going forward to ensure that our future socio-economic livelihoods, as well as that of our country, will not be threatened by the indiscriminate greed and selfishness of the corrupt?

Let us all reflect upon these things and join hands together to fight corruption!

By Hon. Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson - Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands

efficiency, threatens socio-economic cohesion and undermines the rule of law. In building a society that works for the many, and not just the few, then we must be intentional in fighting corruption wherever we find it. Corruption corrodes the fabric of society and in the end collapses it. That isn’t going to happen in TCI.

By Justice Seymour Panton - Chairman of the TCI Integrity Commission

The Integrity Commission of the Turks and Caicos Islands joins with other such bodies around the globe in recognizing International AntiCorruption Day 2019. As Chairman, I reaffirm the Commission’s commitment to leave no stone unturned in the task of developing and maintaining a society that frowns against corruption in all its forms.

The Commission is staffed by able and diligent individuals who vigorously investigate all complaints made by members of the public, and who prosecute whenever an investigation reveals material that requires prosecution.

The Commission does not act only when complaints are made. It watches carefully the actions of those who are entrusted with public authority and public funds to ensure that the interests of the public are protected. The Commission gives the assurance that it will continue in this vein.

I take this opportunity to encourage other state agencies and the members of the public at large to cooperate with the Commission in its effort to fulfill the mandate of making the Turks and Caicos Islands corruptionfree.

There should be no barriers erected that may have the effect

wherever and whenever we see it. We must be whistle-blowers for the good of our society, and for our country. We must be patriots, remembering the famous quote which states that ‘to oppose corruption is the highest obligation of patriotism.’ If, therefore, we should remain silent about it, or turn a blind eye to it, then by our very conduct we would have been complicit.

We would have, by our failure to act, given corruption the oxygen that it needs to breathe.

We must understand that, in the final analysis, we will all lose if corruption is allowed a free reign. The debilitating consequences of corruption will adversely impact the entire society. In this respect it will not discriminate.

As I have said elsewhere, and on more than one occasion, the cost of corruption, especially in developing economies such as our own, is manifested in innumerable ways and it hurts us more than meets the common eye.

Corruption significantly erodes the quality of life of the citizenry by diverting scarce public funds away from the provision of critical social necessities, such as health-care, education, water, roads, electricity, and security.

Corruption also steals political elections, leads to human rights violations, reduces investor confidence, stunts business activity, obstructs economic growth and development, and obliterates

The Turks and Caicos Islands is a beautiful place. It is home and an enjoyable and relaxing experience to many who visit, stealing their hearts and taking residence in their memories forever. We must not mar such beauty through actions that instead mar our reputation and the integrity of our people.

Corruption is a disease. It can creep into our institutions, churches and positions of power, robbing a society of its reputable men and women, instilling mistrust in the systems that were created to protect and empower our people. It undermines our laws and allows crimes such as the illicit trafficking of people, drugs and weapons, to transform our beautiful country into one connected to immorality and a corrosive culture.

That is not what the Turks and Caicos Islands stands for.

My Government has undertaken a thorough review of existing legislation to ensure that gaps are closed disallowing corruption to creep through and to infect our society with its disease. There must be a whole government approach. There must be a country wide approach. We must all understand our roles in ensuring that we are beautiful by nature in every way. My Government remains committed to this.

It is important that we identify these various forms of corruption and

educate our society of the consequences of committing these offences. We must be men and women of integrity. We must not fall victim to the false allure of such immoral behaviour but most of all we must protect our country from those that mean to take advantage of our system and corrupt our society.

So this year as we focus on TCI’s theme for Anti-Corruption Day: ‘Together We Are United Against Corruption’, we must do just that. We must fight for better trust and accountability. We must promote transparency by meeting global standards to strengthen international cooperation.

Today, International Anti-Corruption Day, we must take a stand for Integrity.

Hon. Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson Premier Turks and Caicos Islands

By Hon. Charles Washington Misick - Opposition Leader

of stifling the operations of the Commission. If acts of corruption are left unchecked, the entire country will suffer the consequences. There are situations and circumstances that may appear quite innocent but are indeed pointers at corruption. Consequently, the Commission is engaged in programmes of continuous education of the populace in that regard.

As we celebrate this day, I urge all of us to take time to reflect on the occurrences and activities of the past year, and to strengthen our resolve as we go forward to remove all traces of corruption in public life.

Based on World Economic Forum 2018 data the global cost of corruption is at least 5 per cent of world gross domestic product reinforcing the need for continued vigilance in the fight against corruption.

The victims of corruption are the most vulnerable in society because it bleeds away resources that should be used for social development, reduces economic efficiency, increase inequality, create waste and an environment for conflict.

For all the above reasons, the watch dog function exercised by the Turks and Caicos Integrity Commission is critical in reducing the potential for corruption by making the price of corruption a serious deterrent.

However, it is important that

anti-corruption regimes do not operate in ways that discourage persons with authority or positions of influence at all levels to exercising their decision rights by encouraging bureaucratic conformity – a ticking of the compliance boxes without regard to efficiency – especially given the absence of recourse to reinstatement of lost when prosecutions favour the defendant.

I unequivocally support the work of the Commission and am convince that its operation has had a positive impact on the transparency of public administration in the Islands.

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DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

LOCAL NEWS

Surviving The Flu Season

By Dr. Marsha Barnett

Every year the flu season starts in the winter period and ends at about the beginning of spring. It usually lasts 12 – 14 weeks but the duration of the season varies each year as does the point at which the condition peaks. It can lead to numerous complications including death. It is therefore necessary that we put measures in place to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

Flu vs cold

Influenza, commonly known as the “flu,” is an extremely contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. The common cold and flu are both contagious viral infections of the respiratory tract.

More than 100 types of cold viruses are known, and new strains of flu evolve every few years. Both the flu and a cold are spread when you inhale droplets in the air that contain the virus or make direct contact with respiratory secretions for example through sharing drinks or handling towels used by an ill person.

Viral respiratory tract infections present with cough, congestion, sneezing, running nose and sore throat. With the flu, you are more likely to run a high fever for several days and have body aches, fatigue, and weakness.

If you are tested and proven to have the influenza virus, you can be given antiviral drugs to shorten the severity and length of the illness. You must however see your doctor within

the first 48hrs of the symptoms as the drug is not very effective when started late in the disease process. Drugs aimed at treating your symptoms such as fever, pain, cough and runny nose tend to be very helpful but antibiotics are indicated only if there is a secondary bacterial infection.

Usually, complications from colds are relatively minor, but a severe case of flu can lead to life-threatening illnesses such as pneumonia. Infants, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with chronic ailments such as diabetes and HIV are at highest risk for flu complications. The CDC estimates that deaths related to influenza range from 3,000 to 49,000 deaths in the United States each year.

Preventingthe Flu

Being sick is never fun. No matter what’s on your calendar, you can’t really afford to let a cold or the flu slow you down. Luckily, there are ways to reduce the risk of getting ill this season.

The flu vaccine can reduce your risk of getting the flu and reduce the likelihood of flu-associated hospitalization and complications. A 2014 study by the CDC showed that the flu vaccine reduced children’s risk of flurelated intensive care admission by 74% and another study done two years later showed that people 50 years and older who got a flu vaccine reduced their risk of getting hospitalized by 57%.

Whether or not you have been

BIANCA SANDS, PROVIDENCIALES D103 REGENT STREET, REGENT VILLAGE, GRACE BAY, PROVIDENCIALES STAFF REQUIRED GUEST SERVICES SUPERVISOR Minimum Requirements: • 10 years good quality experience in the Hospitality Industry • Experience in supervising Housekeeping, Pool & Beach, Front Desk & Concierge activities • Experience in Meeting and Greeting paying guests and meeting their high expectations • Good people management skills • Being well organized • Good verbal and written communication skills • Experience of budgeting and controlling expenses • Self-starter who requires minimum supervision • High Integrity Responsibilities: • Supervision of all guest related activities for the Bianca Sands resort • In particular, supervising staff with the responsibility for housekeeping, laundry, pool & beach, front desk and concierge activities • Arrange to “Meet & Greet” all guests as well as manage their guest experience at the resort • Monitor and respond to online comments • Develop a budget for approval by the Board of Directors, including staffing, supplies, guest amenities, linen replenishment, and laundry services etc.

• Manage the staff efficiently and control expenses within the agreed budget.

• Requirement to work or be available during traditional holidays and other peak guest times Remuneration compatible with experience.

How to apply:admin@biancasandsresort.com This position is new Applicants who are Turks & Caicos Islanders should also copies of their application to the Labour Board

vaccinated, good hygiene and a healthy lifestyle can help combat your likelihood of becoming ill. Since the virus is spread through respiratory droplets and contact with respiratory secretions, if possible, avoid close contact with persons when they are sick. Wash your hands frequently, disinfect surfaces and avoid touching the face even when you think your hands are clean.

Heavy drinking can weaken the immune system so limit your alcohol intake. Smoking and even being around someone who smokes hurts the immune system as well. Heavy smokers get more severe and frequent colds as smoke dries out the passages in the nose and affects the hairs that line the nose and lungs and help sweep away cold and flu viruses.

Try to take care of yourself during the season. Get adequate rest and relaxation as your immune system is boosted when you de-stress. Aerobic exercise gets the heart pumping and increases your body’s natural virus killing cells, so get moving. cough and cold, there is little evidence

Of course, overtraining can that this actually makes a difference in make you more susceptible to respiratory the duration or severity of the condition! illnesses so workout in moderation and if Zinc supplements on the other hand you are ill take a few days off your regular have been found to be helpful when routine. battling a cold caused by other viruses

The vitamins and minerals but it has not been proven to have an found in plants help boost the immune effect on the flu. system especially when you have a wide variety of dark green, red, and yellow *Dr. Marsha Barnett is a general veggies and fruits. So, have fruits and practitioner who also specialises veggies with all your meals and in your in dermatology. For questions or juices and smoothies and stay hydrated comments, please contact her at throughout the day. drmarshabarnett@gmail.com or at

Although its regular practice to Associated Medical Practices - 946take vitamin C supplements during a 4242.

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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LOCAL NEWS

Work Hard. A fifth recipe for success.

By Drexwell Seymour “Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies have no sense.”

Proverbs 12:11 “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.”

Proverbs 14:23 “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.” James 2:26

There are some individuals who think they can talk themselves in and out of situation without working. There are some relationships that are based on mere talk. Some people are very gifted and have convinced their partners to stay in a relationship by just talk. Then some of us are just dreaming and waiting for our success without working for it.

However, faith without works is dead.

Sometimes talking works but only on a temporary basis as eventually you will talk yourself out of a job or out of a relationship because the truth will be revealed as there will be no evidence of work. Therefore it is important for you to discontinue the mere talk and work hard whether it involves your

career, marriage, family and even your spiritual life. Working hard is my fifth recipe for success.

The Apostle Paul Paul who persecuted the church of God worked so hard. In fact, the word of the Lord stated in 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 that he worked harder than all of them.

I don’t know why he worked harder than all of them. Paul said he fought a good fight and there is a crown of righteousness stored for him. Perhaps this is why he worked so hard because he knew what the prized would be at the end of the race.

Work hard

The word of the Lord states that hard work brings a profit. Too many of us are just lazy and have no ambition. Some of us believe that we are automatically entitled to certain positions and resources without working for it. While there are certain privileges for some individuals, you still have to work for it.

If you are in the business field, there is a lot of competition and so you have to work hard to have a competitive edge over your competition. Successful entrepreneurs worked hard to become

GRAND TURK DIVING COMPANY is seeking applications from suitably qualified candidates for the following position.

The successful applicants must:

PADI DIVE INSTRUCTOR •Excellent written and verbal skills •Must be self-motivation and able to work unsupervised and think outside the box •Detail orientated •A strong team player •Energetic •A flexible work schedule •STCW/95 Boat Captains license •Current Driver’s License •Salary paid at a rate of1,600.00 per month •Generally supervise both training and non-training-related activities by assisting divers and student divers in the planning, organizing and direction of dives.

NOTE: •The position indicated above is new.

•The position indicated above is temporary.

•For the period of December 21st 2019 to March 31st, 2020.

•All TCIslanders applicants must include a copy of their Turks & Caicos Islands Status ID card, TCI passport and/or valid TCI PRC endorsed with the right to work •Preference will be given to documented Turks and Caicos Islanders •Written applications only and accompanying CVs/resumes valid passport , police record and references must be addressed and delivered to the Manager at the following address: •Interested TCIslanders are may lodge a copy of their application to the Commissioner & Labor

Grand Turk Diving Company Ltd. Duke & James St Grand Turk info@gtdiving.com

successful. They did not work just form 9 to 5 but they work continuously to be on top of the game. There are some new employees that are promoted faster than older employees and most times it is because they worked hard.

Unfortunately, some employees spend many hours warming seats and surfing the internet and then get upset when others who came after them are being promoted.

Believe or not there is competition in relationships. Husbands and wives have to work hard to maintain a solid relationship. Some individuals (married or single) have no regard for marriage and will continue pursue other married persons. They may provide that void that is missing in your marriage and therefore in order for a marriage to be successful, it requires a lot of hard work and commitment. Love alone will not save the marriage.

In our relationship with God, no matter how matured you are, your relationship can failed. There is so much temptation and if you are not alert, you will fall for the trap of the enemy.

Therefore, work hard to maintain your relationship with God. Stay in word and do what the word says.

Children be the best you can and one way to be the best you can is to work hard. Do not take the easy route. If

you know what you enjoy, you will not worry about working hard.

Conclusion

Working hard can be tiresome, lonely and challenging at times.

Sometimes you may feel you are working so hard and you are not getting anywhere. Remember there are seasons for everything and it is just a matter of time before your realize you payoffs so be patient during this process.

While this article encourages you to work hard, it is important that you find ways and means to work smart so that you can maintain a balanced life with your family.

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

LOCAL NEWS

What Is Our Future?

By Jim Brown

First Canadian developer on Providenciales!

When this is read, I expect most people in Providenciales who have a vote, and thus, a say in our future, will strongly disagree with me. However, after 40 years here, I do have some valid observations.

What I have seen happen in many places I visit is coming here and I wonder - are we willing to stop it?

Are we willing to take a stand for what is the most important quality we have?

Will we continue to doom ourselves and children to a dismal future?

We can save our most precious gift and with some serious action and change our future so we have a happy and meaningful life.

Over developing our island is surely happening very quickly! So fast now many people don’t realize just how serious this explosion will affect all our futures.

I came as a developer in a time when investors were very much needed to bring this island along and improve the opportunities for local employment through tourism.

Forty years ago there were 17 cars and 950 people on Providenciales and after 10 years, 20 years, 30 years we saw changes beyond imagination. Not all good but compared to what will happen in the next few years manageable. We are turning a corner from which there is no return.

Developers are building beyond our capability to manage. Growth will sink this ship! Consider your lifestyle here now. It has been pretty good, but think of where it is going!

There is no way we can much

improve the traffic flow, the airport congestion, the crime - our safety which is most important and our easy of living here day to day are draining away!

Can you look forward a few years and consider the consequences of 1000s of new rooms on our lifestyle?

Think of the traffic, all the old wrecked cars, accidents – trying to get to work or drive your kids to school!

With hundreds more foreign workers and discontent amongst our young the crime will be horrific! Look around and see the problems now – how will it get better?

When you go to the bank and see lineups out the door – how will that get better?

When you go to IGA and cannot find a parking spot how will that get better?

When the police cannot control crime now how will that get better?

Jobs are filled by foreign workers needing all the rental properties and driving up prices - how will that get better?

The dump and garbage – how will these get better?

Is the hospital serving us well and can it handle thousands more people? How will it get better?

What good will developers bring us?

I see only more problems!

The local work force and political parties cry for jobs but there is really no unemployment on Providenciales- only under employment. The demand for growth causes a demand for trained employees immediately.

Our people can’t do many of these jobs yet but with a few years work experience they would fill many and

replace imported workers.

How can we train our people when we keep bringing in more workers to fill the jobs because they are trained and our people don’t have a chance for training and work experience.

If we stopped and use the hotels and rental villas here now as a base in a few years our people would work their way up the ladder and be in meaningful jobs and fewer foreign workers would be needed. Everyone would be a winner!

Over developing a resource is common and many examples exist.

Having a beautiful place to live with a good safe lifestyle is rare but we have a

chance to hold onto what is left!

I wonder how many bedrooms are actually in the works but I expect over 1000 right now. We can’t go on!

We need a moratorium immediately until our people catch up to the ‘tiger we have by the tail’ here!

Stop building large construction projects employing foreign workers. Get our people trained to take over work permit holders. Improve what we have with better roads, policing, planning and make life better for our collective future.

That would be the sensible way forward.

GRAND TURK DIVING COMPANY is seeking applications from suitably qualified candidates for the following position.

The successful applicants must:

SALES CLERK/OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR • • • •

Milano Diamond Gallery is interested in hiring persons to fill the position of Sales person Salesperson The successful candidates will be responsible for providing customer service and selling high end jewelry Candidates for Sales Person requirements: •At least 4 passes at CXC including Maths and English •Good Communication skills •Friendly and able to work in a team •Sales experience would be an asset All candidates must be willing to work with an irregular cruise ship schedule. Candidates must be friendly and able to work with a team and also speak excellent English, while proficiency in other languages will be considered a plus Applications can be submitted to Milano Diamond Gallery, Grand Turk Cruise Center 946-2276 Please also submit a copy of your application to TCI work permit board

Minimum 5 years cruise industry/tourism experience Certified Scuba Diver, minimum level of Rescue Diver First aid trained in CPR Able to developed and promote tours to cruise ship passengers and land based guests • Excellent written and verbal skills • Must be self-motivation and able to work unsupervised and think outside the box • Detailed orientated • A strong team player • Energetic • A flexible work schedule • STCW/95 Boat Captains license preferred but not essential • Salary paid at a rate of1,800.00- $2,000.00 per month

NOTE: • The position indicated above is currently held by a work permit holder.

• All TCIslanders applicants must include a copy of their Turks & Caicos Islands Status ID card, TCI passport and/or valid TCI PRC endorsed with the right to work • Preference will be given to documented Turks and Caicos Islanders • Written applications only and accompanying CVs/resumes valid passport , police record and references must be addressed and delivered to the Manager at the following address: • Interested TCIslanders are may lodge a copy of their application to the Commissioner & Labor GRAND TURK DIVING COMPANY, LTD. Duke & James Street, Grand Turk Phone: 946-1559 Email: info@gtdiving..com

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

IT MANAGER Responsibilities Key responsibilities of an IT Manager include: •Providing support for computer and mobile end-users. Particular emphasis is on supporting computers in a Windows Active Directory domain.

Does this through the use and management of IT ticket tracking system.

Prioritizes all tickets in response to priorities established by Executive Management Team. Offers help in a way that further educates the enduser, elevates overall technology acumen and leads to a less “help desk reliant” workforce.

• Working with various departments to ensure smooth delivery of technology resources for all on-property events.

• Researching new technologies, working with the property leadership team and Evolution IT team to recommend, design and implement innovative, cost effective technology solutions.

• Coordinating 3rd party vendors to include working with various vendors including telecommunications providers, and software, hardware and other technology vendors to respond to IT needs of property as determined by Evolution IT Team and the on-property Leadership Team.

• Working with the Leadership Team to ensure that IT operations are aligned with business needs. Adjust IT department priorities as necessary in response to direction.

• Work may include: racking and stacking network and server equipment, toning and terminating cabling, creating new use accounts, joining computers to domains, training, etc.

Job Requirements •Active Directory and Exchange knowledge including Windows authentication to AD, Windows file and print sharing required •Printer / peripheral device troubleshooting skills •Networking experience with TCP/IP, DNS and DHCP •Experience with wireless peripherals/devices especially mobile devices

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.

BUTLER Island Escapes (TCI) Ltd is seeking candidates for the above position.

A highly experienced Butler is required to provide full Butler service.

Working hours and days will vary, thus we are seeking candidates with a flexible schedule who can work longer hours when required and during holidays.

Requirements: Secondary Education at minimum, Certification in Safety Management or Food Safety is a plus. Minimum of two years experience in hospitality, customer service or related field. Must be able to maintain a positive attitude under stressful work conditions.

Ability to adapt to a fast-paced environment, willing to work long hours and during holidays. Multi-tasking skill and a “can do” attitude, able to deliver excellent service. Knowledge in housekeeping and trouble shooting skills, good communication and leadership skills.

Remuneration: $8.50 per hour based on experience and qualifications.

Kindly forward resumes and qualifications to oa@fchamberslaw.com, copying same to the Turks and Caicos Islands Labour Department and Immigration Board.

Page 19

•The candidate should be a self-motivated and detail oriented with the ability to manage technical events from open through closure •Critical thinking and problem solving/troubleshooting skills a must •Excellent communication skills Ability to read, write, and speak English to comprehend and communicate job functions.

•Ability to work with others and help them understand things from a “non-technical” point of view.

•Ability to meet varying schedules due to nature of the hospitality industry.

This may include working extended hours, weekends and holidays.

•Ability to stand, walk, and/or sit continuously perform essential functions for an extended period of time.

Education Preferred & Required Experience: •AA or equivalent experience •A, Network , and Microsoft certifications preferred Experience •3-5 years progressive experience in the IT industry, working on and supporting end users in a windows domain environment.

•2-3 years of supervision experience.

•Experience in supporting multi-branch locations •Knowledge of the hospitality industry a definite asset.

Salary Scale: $36,000.00 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 Dec. 21st, 2019

KEYSTONE LTD. We are looking for a professional housekeeper able to operate and maintain a villa in Providenciales.

The successful candidate will need to be able to perform a variety of cleaning activities such as sweeping, mopping, dusting and polishing. Ensure that all rooms are cared for and inspected according to standards. Protect equipment and make sure they are operational. Notify owners of any damages, deficits and disturbances. Deal with reasonable complaints and requests with professionalism and patience. Check stocking levels of all consumables and replace when appropriate. Adhere strictly to rules regarding health and safety and be aware of any company-related practices.

Qualifications •At least five (5) years experience with managing and maintaining vacation villas •Ability to work with little supervision •Customer-oriented and friendly •Prioritization and time management skills.

Salary: $5,833.34 monthly Contact: Joshua Hersey- (717) 321 5607 This position is currently held by a work permit holder.

Prospective TC Islander applicants are also free to lodge a copy of their applications with the Labour Board.

T.C.Gas Ltd

Wishes to announce that effective 11thNovember William “Bill” McCollum has now retired from active participation in day to day operations of the Company.

He remains in the role of Non-Executive Director of the Company

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

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: USD18,000 to USD21,000. Position currently held by a work permit holder Retail and Spa Manager The 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: USD45,000 to USD50,00 per annum and is based on experience and qualification.

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: USD15,500 to USD16,500 per annum. Position currently held by a work permit holder Beach Butler Trainer TheBeach Butler Trainer oversees all aspects of the beach butler department, including training and ensuring that the highly personalized service that the team provides to VIP guests is flawless. They are responsible for ensuring the Beach operations and are ran smoother and employee’s skills are up to resort standard.

Must be willing to work long hours in the The Beach Butler Trainerhas the skills that can help turn problems into opportunities, and bring any aggrieved guest back to a state of satisfaction.

Salary $10 per hour.

Security Officer/guard The areas of responsibility for this position include the protection and safety of property assets, employees, guests, accident and fire prevention and response. The ideal candidate must exemplify excellent customer service and create a positive atmosphere for guests and employees and be available to work a rotating and flexible schedule.

Duties and Requirements: •A minimum of 5 years’ experience •Able to work flexible hours, holidays and weekends.

•Willing to walk/run through dark bushy areas to carryout checks.

•Highly trained in security procedures and martial arts.

•First Aid training is preferable •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.

•Ability to respond to patron problems effectively.

Salary range: USD14,000 to USD15,000 per annum and is based on experience and qualification. Position currently held by a work permit holder.

Housekeeping/Labourers Turndown Attendant / Houseman/Attendants Clean, stock, and provide turndown service for guest rooms to ensure cleanliness and guest satisfaction while caring enough to do it well by adhering to the Resort Commitments.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities •Provide turndown service by partially removing and storing bedspread, replenishing amenities, linens, and supplies and filling ice bucket as requested by guest •Sign for room keys and restock cart •Visually inspect room for cleanliness and appearance of room •Strip and make beds, change linens and dust all furniture thoroughly •Replenish amenities, linens, and supplies in guest room •Vacuum entire room and empty trash •All lost and found articles must be turned in to supervisor or the Director of Housekeeping •Clocking in and out accurately is required as per company policies •Respond in a timely manner to guest requests for items and/or other information 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: USD14,500 per annum Line Cook: We are looking for a professional line cook to prepare food to the exact chef’s specifications and to set up stations for menu. The successful candidate will play a key role in contributing to our customer satisfaction and acquisition goals.

Requirement •Proven cooking experience •Excellent understanding of various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment and procedures •Accuracy and speed in executing assigned tasks •Familiar with industry’s best practices Salary: USD6.25 per hour. Position currently held by a work permit holder LEAD SERVER Candidate will lead their section team and at times be responsible for opening or closing the restaurant including responsibility for end of day procedures.

•Suitable candidates must have a minimum of 4 years’ experience working in a lead position at a five-star resort or fine dining restaurant in a lead position •High energy with excellent interpersonal skills •Excellent command of English language (writing/reading/speaking) •Experience with point-of-service system, prior cashier or banking experience preferred Wages: $7.60 per hour and position currently held by a work permit holder Restaurant Manager: The Restaurant Manager’s main responsibility is to manage the entire restaurant and the staff in the restaurant and ensures all daily duties are done in order to serve our guests efficiently and professionally •Oversee the implementation of service and brand standards in the restaurant •Ensure all staff is trained on the company standards and acts in compliance to the standards •Monitor food & beverage cost in the restaurant and ensure minimum waste occurs •Monitor the POS system and ensure all transactions are properly recorded and settled according to company rules •Ensure daily opening and closing procedures are performed according to standards •Ensure the restaurant is in compliance with the current health and safety standards at all times •Directly responsible for meeting financial, service and guest satisfaction targets for assigned outlet Skills and Qualifications: •Previous five star restaurant management experience •Previous experience working with multi-cultural/multi-ethnic groups •Ability to build, train and maintain teams Salary range: USD45,000 to USD 50,500 per annum.

OTHER POSITIONS •Public Area Cleaner •Houseman

Salary range: USD12,000 to $17,000 per annum and is based on experience and qualification. Some position currently held by a work permit holder.

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: Dec 15, 2019

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 21

LOCAL NEWS

TCI Community College celebrates its 24th Annual Graduation during its Silver Anniversary

The story began 25 years ago; the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College was once just a dream and today the College celebrates a quarter of a century. Many people would have been instrumental in seeing the evolution of the College to where it is today.

Mrs. Pamela Taylor, the first registered student of the College was the Guest Speaker. She quoted from Martin Luther King, “The function of education is to teach one to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.” She encouraged the students to remember God in the decisions that they would make for the future and closed with the scripture from Jeremiah 29:11.

The 24th Annual Commencement Exercise took place at the Paradise Baptist Church, which saw 95 students being eligible to graduate in this cycle.

There were 20 Bachelor students among the graduates in the areas of Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance and Management and Human Resource; Hospitality and Tourism Management; Management Information Systems and Primary Education.

Students graduated from various Associate Degree Programmes: Architectural and Building Design Technology; Business Studies; Computer and Electrical Engineering Technology; Computer Services; Culinary Arts; Early Childhood Education; General Studies (Humanities); General Studies (Science); Hospitality and Tourism Management; Marine Biology / Biology Minor and Primary Education.

The Faculty of Business Administration captured the Valedictorian and Salutatorian spots for two consecutive years. Ms. Frankira Forbes captured the top spot with Ms. Marjha Nazon following her.

In the Associate Degree programme,Ms. Britiania Missick, another Business student, was named Valedictorian and the lone gentleman, Mr. Tyrese Saunders from the Faculty of Architectural and Building

Design Technology captured the Salutatorian honour.

Kentavia Saunders and Dewandre Smith were the first Graduates from the Associate Degree Programme in Marine Biology and they have Scuba certification as well. Temiloluwa Olugbanmu became the first student to graduate from the Bachelor of Science programme in Management Information Systems.

Students would have performed well in their various programmes, Faculty Awards were presented at the Annual Graduands Banquet, and those students were: Tyrese Saunders Britiania Misick Deante James Christofer Lugo Nicholas Freites Glunise Gustave Eleth Davis Angelina Astwood Rashaunda Cooke Kayanna Gibson Dewandre Smith

Associate Degree in Architectural and Building Design Technology Associate Degree in Business Administration Associate Degree in Computer Studies Associate Degree in Computer Studies Associate Degree in Computer and Electrical Engineering Associate Degree in Culinary Arts Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education Associate Degree in General Studies (Humanities) Associate Degree in General Studies (Science) Associate Degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management Associate Degree in

Chrissy Stubbs-Williams Chinedu Otuonye Frankira Forbes Marjha Nazon

Sandra Nemours Temiloluwa Olugbanmu Alecia Fenelus

Marine Biology Associate Degree in Primary Education Associate Degree In Tourism Management Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration (Finance) Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance Bachelor of Science Degree in Hospitality Management Bachelor of Science Degree in Management Information Systems Bachelor of Science Degree in Primary Education

President Dr. Hubert Fulford echoed words of thanks. He said, “This is a time of celebration at the TCI Community College. It is a time to reflect on how far the College has come and to look forward to where we are going.” He continued, “Congratulations to those who would have graduated this year from the College and we remember the over 2000 Alumni of this noble institution – those who are impacting every sphere of development in this country.” He said, “The Turks and Caicos Islands is proud of where we have come and we look forward to the University of the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

Education is everyone’s business and we honour our partners who collaborate with the College.

We are in this together and together we will win.

Academic Dean Dr. Mubenwafor presenting Mrs. Forbes with award for Academic Dean Dr. Mubenwafor with Academic Dean Dr. Mubenwafor with Academic Dean Dr. Mubenwafor with Chinedu Otuonye Dewandre Smith Glunise Gustave Tyrese Saunders

VP Samuel Forbes with Brital Grey accepting award for Valedictorian Britiania Misick

Academic Dean Dr. Mubenwafor with Mrs. Chair of Faculty Mr. Henry with Rashaunda President Dr. Fulford with Alecia Fenelus Chrissy Stubbs - Williams Cooke

VP Samuel Forbes with Christofer Lugo

President Dr. Fulford with Valedictorian Frankira Forbes

Valedictorian Frankira Forbes

BSc

President Dr. Fulford with BSc Salutatorian Marjha Nazon

President Dr. Fulford with Temiloluwa President Dr. Fulford with Sandra Nemours Olugbanmu Students from Hospitality and Tourism served

VP Samuel Forbes presents Mrs. Hamiliton VP Samuel Forbes with Angelina Astwood with award for Deante James

TCICC stdudents and Lecturers from the Hospitality and Tourism Faculty

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

LOCAL NEWS

Sevens Stars’ Annual Christmas Tree Lighting S

even Stars Resort & Spa was the centre of attention on Friday November 29, when it held the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Precious Treasures International School kicked off the ceremony with beautiful Christmas Carols that created a holiday vibe

for the crowd. Santa Claus was the showstopper when he appeared on his “sleigh” and later offered goodies to the children who were only too eager to oblige.

Since 2011, this event has brought the children of the staff, guests and the general public together to launch the festive season.

Seven Stars Resort & Spa believes in supporting the community which is why we continue to host the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony each year.

Photo Credit: Defralien

Todeline

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

LOCAL NEWS

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 25

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE A RESILIENT ENERGY COMPANY? FortisTCI’s headquarters, Providenciales:

. Resilient – built to Category 4 hurricane standards . Provides state-of-the-art customer care facilities . Provides state-of-the-art operational and staff support services, including training and development . Provides hurricane protection and disaster recovery Multipurpose building, Grand Turk

capabilities, as demonstrated during Hurricanes Irma and Maria . Provides security and protection for an essential service and critical infrastructure

The right people, robust infrastructure, and a tried and proven business continuity system. This is how FortisTCI was able to restore your electricity in record-breaking time (60 days) after Hurricanes Irma and Maria.

At FortisTCI, we make strategic investments, deliver innovative solutions and build prudently to meet your energy needs. Today and tomorrow.

2017 Winner

Allied Member of the Year

BCMS 681102

www.fortistci.com | 649-946-4313 |

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

LOCAL NEWS

Pitch Please Grand Finale highlights T

his past Friday, the Grace Bay Resorts Foundation held their Grand Finale to Pitch Please, the first of its kind locally filmed and produced tv show, aimed towards bridging the gap between funding and startups by placing budding entrepreneurs and investors in the same room.

Cherline Dabel of Grand Turk, took home the $20,000.00 grand prize for her startup, Aunty Nann’s Homemade

icecream.

Director of the Foundation and mastermind behind the Pitch Please initiative, Johnna Messam told The SUN that she’s glad someone one from one of the sister islands won, because it shows that even with adversity (the distance, the fact that she wasn’t able to participate all of the activities), she was still able to compete and emerge as the winner. It’s important for those looking to compete in future to see

that distance should not be a deterrent in that decision making process.

Messam goes on further to say that creating this platform was important as she’d like to see more locals in positions of ownership. “There are many talented individuals in Turks and Caicos with some amazing ideas” she said “they either lack the funding, the mentorship or the opportunity and we’re hoping Pitch Please is the answer to that, or at least a start”.

The 2 month filming included Business Plan writing with the CED, Financial planning with Invest TC, Sessions with Toast Masters, Legal sessions and the list goes on, all at no cost to the contestants.

Messam praised her sponsors and investors stating that “they bought into my vision without hesitation; that shows that there are people locally willing to invest in local”. She added that she hopes the response is even better for Season two.

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

LOCAL NEWS

Provo Sailing Academy Open Championships, a fantastic weekend of competition P

rovo Sailing Academy, located in the Bight Park, held it’s annual two-day open championships event on November 30th and December 1st. The club was delighted to have a record breaking attendance from sailors despite having challenging conditions on both days. There were strong winds and large swells breaking on the shore on the usually calm and flat waters that Grace Bay is renowned for.

Under the expert hands of instructors and many helpers volunteering their time, the children, ranging in age from 6 - 17, were assisted with launching the boats to get to the start line. With two support boats also on the water, a committee boat and a rescue rib, the events ran smoothly throughout the regatta.

Day 1 saw the Optimist Gold and Silver fleets, and the Laser Radials racing round their respective courses and Day 2 was the Picos and the Laser 4.7s. A triangle course was laid for the Optimists and Picos, and a sausage course for the Laser Radials and 4.7s.

The courses are laid to give the sailors a chance to race against each other on all points of sail using their knowledge of wind direction and trimming the sails accordingly. Racing these small sailing dinghies is a very tactical sport, and the children really showed what talent they have and how much they have learnt over the past few years. Sailors were battling all day on the water with six races completed by each sailor on both Saturday and Sunday.

Besides watching the racing, there was music, a refreshment tent and BBQ set up on the beach serving burgers and hot dogs kept both sailors and spectators entertained.

Competitive spirits were high and the sense of community was wonderful to feel as all the families got together and enjoyed the weekend of fun in the sun.

The days were tiring yet exhilarating for all participants with many close and exciting finishes, some great team

work and camaraderie shown throughout.

Afterwards the elation and exhaustion was palpable, but the sense of achievement was immense, With an array of trophies and medals presented at the prize giving ceremony. Provo Sailing Club is truly proud of all the competitors and looks forward to more regatta events and introducing more of the community to this ideal sport for Turks and Caicos.

The PSA were delighted to see so many children learning so much over the weekend and can’t wait for the new year when places for ten new sponsored children are being offered throughout local schools.

RESULTS: Optimist Gold Fleet.

1st ( Southbank Trophy) winner Grace Coleman Reaston Brown . 2 nd place Dylan Wells. 3rd Place Carlton Stepp.

Optimist Silver Fleet 1st Lawrence Coleman Reaston-Brown 2nd Coopers Stepp 3rd Henry krieble Pico double helm race 1st Place Scarlett Browing and Henry Krieble 2nd place Nathan Affleck and Ollie Downes 3rd place Dylan Wells he Tom Phillips Special mention the youngest two sailors who competed all Pico races and came fourth LAwrence Coleman Reaston Brown aged 6 and Altheo Salao Roullet age 7.

Laser radial Wessex Fairchild Trophy 1st Place Luc Salao Roullet 2nd Oliver Downes 3rd Jade Gunderson Laser 4.7 Wessex Fairchild Trophy 1st Grace Coleman Reaston-Brown 2nd Bradley Gerard 3rd Maya Lopes-Wilson

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

How Rihanna became the world’s wealthiest female musician, outdoing Beyoncé and Madonna

Rihanna is officially the wealthiest female musician in the world.

With a fortune of US$600 million, she’s richer than Madonna, Celine Dion, and even Beyoncé.

According to her label, Roc Nation, she has sold more than 60 million albums and 215 million digital tracks, making her the second bestselling digital artist of all time. But all that wealth didn’t just come from her music.

Here’s how Rihanna makes and spends her millions.

Rihanna got her start as a musician. She was discovered by an American record producer at age 15 and shortly thereafter was signed by Jay-Z. Since then, she has had 14 No 1 songs, and in 2016, made an estimated US$22.3 million from her music alone, not to mention her world tours like “Diamonds”, which generated a total of US$137 million in revenue.

But these days, most of her wealth comes from partnerships, campaigns, and endorsement deals, like the million-dollar partnership deal she made with Puma in 2014. Puma brought Rihanna on as its creative director, and sales rose by a reported 16 per cent in the first six months.

Everything Rihanna touches

seemingly turns to gold. In fact, her fans are 3.7 times more likely to purchase products from her than any other celebrity, according to a study published in 2016. And that fan-based loyalty is worth tens of millions of dollars when it comes to her cosmetic and clothing lines.

Rihanna’s most profitable partnership is with the luxury conglomerate LVMH. In 2017, she partnered with LVMH to develop a cosmetic line called Fenty Beauty, which generated more than US$550 million in its first year. It initially sold foundation shades but has since expanded to other products like lipstick, lip gloss, body glitter, and more.

Rihanna holds an estimated 15 per cent stake in the US$3 billion company, and she teamed up with LVMH again in 2019 to launch Fenty, a new high-fashion house based in Paris.

It’s the first new fashion house LVMH has started since 1987, and Rihanna is not only the first black woman to lead a major fashion house, she’s also the youngest.

Fenty debuted its spring line in May 2019, featuring strong shoulders and futuristic accessories starting at US$400.

So with these deals and revenue

Drake is Spotify’s moststreamed artist of the decade

Drake performs onstage in Toronto. The rapper has been named Spotify’s most-streamed artist of the decade

Drake is the king of streaming: top-streamed artist globally. Billie the rapper has been named Spotify’s Eilish, Grande, Sheeran and Bad Bunny round out the Top 5. Eilish’s most-streamed artist of the decade.

Spotify announced Tuesday debut album — “When We All Fall that Drake has been streamed 28 Asleep, Where Do We Go?” — is the billion times in the last 10 years. Ed year’s most-streamed album, while Sheeran came in second, while Post Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello’s Malone, Ariana Grande and Eminem “Senorita” tops the list of the mostround out the Top 5. Sheeran’s “Shape streamed songs. of You” was the most-streamed song “The Joe Budden Podcast of the decade. with Rory & Mal” is the year’s most For 2019, Post Malone is the streamed podcast on Spotify.

streams pouring in, what does Rihanna do with all of her money? For one, Rihanna has proven to be quite the entrepreneur with smart investing. She reportedly put US$34 million of her own money towards building Fenty with LVMH, and she also has a business eye in the realestate market. She bought a mansion in Los Angeles for US$6.8 million and later listed it for US$7.4 million.

She currently lives in a sevenbedroom home in London where she pays rent of US$20,363 a week, and when she travels, it’s on private jets and yachts.

In 2011, she chartered a yacht for US$300,000 a week to take her around the French Riviera, and she’s not afraid of an expensive night out. In 2013, she reportedly spent US$8,000 in one night at a Miami strip club and on another night dropped US$17,000 at a strip club in Houston with rapper Drake.

Rihanna also enjoys dishes prepared by her personal chef, Debbie Solomon, and she reportedly spends US$38,000 a week on her beauty regime, keeping a personal make-up artist, dermatologist, and lash technician on staff.

She enjoys living lavishly, but she also likes to give back. In 2012, Rihanna established the Clara

Rihanna promotes her brand Fenty in Paris.

Lionel Foundation, named after her grandparents. The foundation aims to provide quality education and health care to children worldwide. She also hosts an annual Diamond Ball to benefit the foundation. Throughout the course of her career, Rihanna has become a highly influential global icon with her brands thriving and net worth growing.

Who knows what she’ll do next?

Tina Turner makes turning 80 look amazing

Tina Turner is looking great and feeling “good” as she turns 80.

The legendary singer celebrated her birthday in a video posted to social media, where she opened up about the milestone.

“I look great. I feel good,” she said. “I’ve gone through some very serious sicknesses that I’m overcoming. So it’s like having a second chance at life.”

In her 2018 memoir, Turner spoke about her health, saying she’d previously suffered a stroke, battled intestinal cancer and undergone a kidney transplant.”

On her birthday, she said, “I’m happy to be an 80-year-old woman.”

Turner made a public appearance just last month to celebrate the opening of a Broadway show based on her life.

At the time, speaking to an audience that included Oprah Winfrey, Spike Lee and Anna Wintour, she said, “This musical is my life but it’s like poison that turned to medicine...I can never be as happy as I am now.”

Tina Turner

Gabrielle Union speaks out amid reports she’s off NBC show

Gabrielle Union thanked supporters for defending her amid reports she was fired from “America’s Got Talent” after complaining about racism and other alleged on-set issues.

“Just when you feel lost, adrift, alone... you got me up off the ground.

Humbled and thankful, forever,” the actress tweeted Wednesday night. She didn’t directly address her status with NBC’s talent show, and her representatives did not respond to requests for comment Friday or previously.

According to reports, Union and Julianne Hough have been dropped as “America’s Got Talent” judges after a single season.

Union, who is African American, reportedly sought network action to address a workplace environment that allegedly allowed racist jokes and

comments and other troubling behavior, including judge-producer Simon Cowell’s smoking indoors in violation of state law.

Union’s husband, former NBA player Dwyane Wade, also weighed in Wednesday on Twitter, saying he’d yet to hear a good reason why his wife was being fired.

In a statement, NBC and series producer Fremantle defended what they called the show’s “long history of inclusivity and diversity.”

“The judging and host line-up has been regularly refreshed over the years and that is one of the reasons for AGT’s enduring popularity. NBC and the producers take any issues on set seriously,” the companies said.

The judging panel has changed since the show’s 2006 debut, but most

Celebrity judges, from left, Howie Mandel, Gabrielle Union, Julianne Hough, Simon Cowell on the set of “America’s Got Talent,” in Los Angeles judges’ tenures have lasted at least several years, including that of Sharon Osbourne, Mel B and Howard Stern.

Among the celebrities who have rallied publicly behind Union are “Grey’s Anatomy” star Ellen Pompeo, Holly

Robinson Peete and Patricia Arquette.

“I’m just catching up on this.

This is terrible,” Arquette tweeted. “You should not be penalized for trying to have a workplace that honors the rule of law in the workplace.”

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 29

HEALTHY

LIFESTYLE MRIs of dense breasts find more cancer but also false alarms

Giving women with very dense breasts an MRI scan in addition to a mammogram led to fewer missed cancers but also to a lot of false alarms and treatments that might not have been needed, a large study found.

The results give a clearer picture of the tradeoffs involved in such testing, but they can’t answer the biggest question — whether it saves lives.

For women with dense breasts trying to decide on screening, “the dilemma remains,” Dr. Dan Longo of the New England Journal of Medicine wrote in an editorial published with the study on Wednesday.

About half of women over 40 have dense breasts and about 10% have very dense ones. That raises their risk of developing cancer and makes it harder to spot on mammograms if they do. U.S. regulators are making rules to require that women get breast density information when they have mammograms, and many places provide it now. But what to do if you have dense breasts is unclear — it’s not known if more or different types

This photo shows a mammogram, a test to detect cancer of screening such as MRIs or ultrasounds help.

The study involved more than 40,000 Dutch women ages 50 to 75 with very dense breasts who had normal results from a mammogram, a screening X-ray offered every two years in the Netherlands. About 8,000 of them also were offered an MRI scan, which uses powerful magnets to create detailed

Diet pills, laxatives may signal eating disorder risk in young women

Teens and young women who use diet pills and laxatives for weight control are five to six times more likely to be diagnosed with an eating disorder in the next three years, a U.S. study suggests.

Using these medications for weight loss can be dangerous and may be a warning sign to consider counseling because there is an increased risk for developing an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia, the study authors write in the American Journal of Public Health.

“Advertising for these products is common on social media, and the products are easily accessible at local pharmacies and groceries, which gives young people the mistaken idea that they are safe to use,” said Jordan Levinson of Boston Children’s Hospital’s Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, the study’s lead author.

“But this could not be further from the truth. These products are not medically recommended for healthy weight management and can even be dangerous,” she told Reuters Health by email. “When young people get their hands on these easily accessible yet harmful products, they are put at risk for disordered weight control behaviors and, as our study suggests,

may even put them on a path to develop an eating disorder.”

Levinson and colleagues analyzed data on more than 10,000 U.S. women between ages 14 and 36, who were participating in a long-term study. The women were surveyed annually about whether they had used diet pills or laxatives for weight loss during the past year, and whether they’d received a new diagnosis of an eating disorder.

Researchers excluded young women already diagnosed with an eating disorder from the analysis, and adjusted for overweight status, age, and other factors.

They found that eating disorders developed in just 1% of women who did not report diet pill use for weight control during the past year, and 1.8% of those who did use diet pills.

Similarly, 0.8% of women who did not report laxative use for weight loss were later diagnosed with an eating disorder, compared to 4.6% of those who did use laxatives.

Using these kinds of products may increase the likelihood of eating disorders by creating irregular eating behaviors, physical disruptions to digestion or psychological issues, the study authors speculate.

images, and 4,783 women agreed.

Researchers then tracked how many breast cancers were detected in each group within two years. Finding more of these “interval cancers” implies that the initial screening may have missed them.

The rate of these cancers after two years was twice as high in the group that was only offered mammograms.

This suggests that adding MRIs to initial screening did catch more cancers, but they also gave a lot of false alarms— about 80 per 1,000 scans. Three quarters of women who had a biopsy after a questionable MRI turned out not to have cancer.

MRIs also led to more side effects during the scan or later testing, such as fainting or problems from an IV. And they cost much more than mammograms.

The study only looked at the first two years of screening with MRIs and it’s too soon to say whether the test will save lives.

Without such evidence, it’s tough to say what value there is in finding more cancers, especially many very small, early stage ones, Longo wrote.

Doctors already know that some of these will never cause symptoms or become life-threatening.

“Our dilemma is that, for most tumors, we cannot tell the difference between cancers that can kill you and those that cannot,” he wrote.

Drinking-related liver disease and deaths on the rise in U.S.

Americans today are expected to live shorter lives than just a few years ago, in contrast with trends seen in other developed nations, and rising deaths from alcohol-related liver disease may be partly to blame, researchers say.

Analyzing data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, they found that U.S. deaths from alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) are at their highest levels since 1999 and have risen every year since 2006 in nearly every racial, ethnic and age group.

“I bet a lot of people would be surprised by the statistic that life expectancy is actually falling in the United States,” lead study author Dr. Andrew Moon of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill said in a phone interview.

“We think that increasing alcohol use is likely playing a role and then possibly in combination with an increase in other underlying liver diseases, putting people at increased risk for alcohol-related liver disease,” Moon told Reuters Health.

“There is data showing that alcohol use, particularly high-risk drinking, has increased in recent years.”

Alcohol-related liver disease takes several forms and could be tied to increased alcohol use over time or binge drinking.

The researchers analyzed causes of death for people aged 25 and older in the two decades since 1997, and found that 2017 had the highest rates of death from ALD, at 13.1 per 100,000 deaths in men and 5.6 per 100,000 in women.

That compares to 1999 ALD mortality rates of 10.6 per 100,000 in men and 3.3 per 100,000 in women.

Mortality rates and recent increases in ALD diagnoses were particularly pronounced among middleaged adults, Native Americans and non-Hispanic whites, the researchers report in the American Journal of Gastroenterology.

For example, compared with non-Hispanic whites, Native Americans had twice the ALD mortality in 2017.

The absolute increases in mortality rates have been particularly pronounced in Native American women, the authors note. This could indicate a public health crisis in this community and studying the disease in Native Americans should be high priority, they write.

People aged 55-64 had the highest rate of deaths among all age groups, and rural areas showed higher mortality rates than urban ones.

Non-Hispanic black men were the only group that did not experience increasing rates of ALD deaths, the authors point out.

Slight hearing loss may affect kids’ behavior, school performance

Children with slight hearing and with lower scores on standardized loss may do a little less well in school testing. and may be a bit more likely to develop While the study can’t prove behavior problems, a new study mild hearing loss causes worse academic suggests. performance and behavior problems,

Hearing impairment that “We would like to raise awareness that doctors and parents may have possibly slight hearing loss may have considered slight or mild “may more effects in daily life than often actually be associated with both school assumed,” said lead author Dr. Carlijn le performance and behavior,” researchers Clercq, of Erasmus University Medical write in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head Center, in an email. and Neck Surgery.

“Children with slight hearing

Among nearly 5,000 Dutch loss may benefit from a seat in the front elementary school children, slight or of the classroom close to their teacher. mild hearing impairment was linked And for children who seem to have with higher behavioral problem scores trouble keeping up at school or whose on questionnaires filled out by parents attention span is limited, a hearing test

could be considered.”

Le Clercq and colleagues focused on children who had problems hearing tones below 25 decibels.

“Rustling leaves are approximately 20 decibels,” le Clercq explained. “Maybe it is not a big deal if you can’t hear rustling leaves. However, (for people who can’t), almost all normal speech will be softer in their ears.

You can imagine it takes more effort to understand that speech, especially if it is like that all day long.”

Le Clercq’s team studied 4,779 children born between 2002 and 2006.

Children with moderate or severe hearing loss were excluded from the

study.

Between ages 9 and 11, the children had their hearing checked in a quiet room. A smaller group got a second exam, in which their ability to hear speech in a noisy environment was tested.

School performance and behavioral problems worsened as hearing declined, the researchers found.

The new study “highlights the fact that hearing loss, whether severe or slight, may affect behavior and school performance,” said Dr. David Chi, who is chief of the division of pediatric otolaryngology at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.

Page 30

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

PROVO SAILING ACADEMY invites you to the

CHRISTMAS PARTY

All Proce

ion t p e

ec R e n g ar a B p am Open pés t h C na men a C in n a o t i t r te uc En ent A Sil

Date | Friday December 13th Time | 7.30pm - Midnight Venue | Stargazer Villa Tickets | $125 p.p.

eds go to our Commun ity Sailing P rogram

To purchase tickets, please call Bex 431-2397 / Nick 232-4459 or email: provosailingacademy@gmail.com

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 31

policies and procedures • To act in the role of Goalkeeping Coach for the TCIFA’s Junior and Senior National Teams • Any other duties as required by the football club within the reasonable demands of the role

Goal Keeper Football Coach The Turks & Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the position of Goal Keeper Football Coach. The individual must be the holder of at least a Concacaf or US Soccer “D” License as minimum.

Equivalent UEFA or other Football Confederations Licenses are also accepted.

Job Summary The Goal Keeper Football Coach’s Position is responsible for assisting the Technical Director and Director of Women’s Football with organizing Football Programs, from Grassroots to the Male & Female, Junior and Senior National Teams at the TCIFA. The Coach will assist with conducting practices, motivating and instructing players in game techniques and tactics. The position will also be responsible for coaching all areas of the game of Football.

Core Responsibilities • To assist the Technical Director in creating a Long-Term Goal Keeper Coaching Development Plan for the TCIFA • Consult with the Technical Director & Director of Women’s Football in formulating the goal keeper coaching sessions to be utilized in the Grassroots, Youth Academy and Junior and Senior National Team • Effectively plan, deliver and evaluate coaching sessions in line with the TCIFA’s philosophy and coaching.

• Supervise and guide the Volunteer Coaches within the various TCIFA Coaching Programs • Attend the various schools in the Turks and Caicos Islands for the purposes of player recruitment, conducting coaching sessions, and to act as a liaison between the schools and the TCIFA • Conduct periodic visits to the outer islands to conduct coaching sessions, assist in and evaluate the various Grassroots and Youth Development Programs • Coach in games including local, regional, and international tournament and leagues • To prepare written reports on matters relating to football development as required • To undertake any other duties that might reasonably be deemed within the status of the job and appropriate to the post • To carry out all duties with regard to relevant legislation and the TCIFA’s

Required Qualification & Skills • CONCACAF or US Soccer D License • Equivalent UEFA or other Football Confederations Licenses are also accepted.

• Excellent communication and leadership skills • Able to work in a standing position for long periods of time • Able to work outside, in all weather conditions • Good social and interpersonal skills • Able to maintain high energy levels • May be required to work on weekends and holidays • May travel periodically - US Visa is Required Working Conditions & Physical Requirements The job is physically demanding requiring the successful candidate to work outdoors for hours in various weather conditions. As such, the successful candidate must have the ability to stand for extended periods of time, see and read a computer screen and printed material with or without vision aids; hear and understand speech at normal levels.

Salary: Remuneration will be between $1500 to $3000 per month, dependent upon experience.

Please direct all applications to: Oliver A. Smith The General Secretary The Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association Venetian Road Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Email: olivertcifa@gmail.com The above-named position is currently held by a work permit holder.

TCIFA invites and encourages all prospective applicants who are Turks & Caicos Islanders to send their application to the Immigration Board & Labor Commissions.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

Deadline: December 12th, 2019

• To carry out all duties with regard to relevant legislation and the TCIFA’s policies and procedures • To perform in the role of Head Coach or Assistant to the Head Coach for Junior and Senior National Teams • Any other duties as required by the football club within the reasonable demands of the role

Football Coach The Turks & Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) is seeking 2 qualified candidates to fill the position of Football Coach. The individuals must be the holders of at least a Concacaf or US Soccer “C” Licenses as minimum. Equivalent UEFA or other Football Confederations Licenses are also accepted.

Job Summary The Football Coach’s Positions are responsible for assisting the Technical Director with organizing Football Programs, from Grassroots to the Male, Junior and Senior National Teams at the TCIFA. The Coaches will assist with conducting practices, motivating, and instructing players in game techniques and tactics. The positions will also be responsible for coaching all areas of the game of Football.

Core Responsibilities • To assist the Technical Director in creating a Long-Term Coaching Development Plan for the TCIFA • Consult with the Technical Director in formulating the coaching sessions to be utilized in the Grassroots, Youth Academy and Junior and Senior National Team • Effectively plan, deliver and evaluate coaching sessions in line with the TCIFA’s philosophy and coaching.

• Supervise and guide the Volunteer Coaches within the various TCIFA Coaching Programs • Attend the various schools in the Turks and Caicos Islands for the purposes of player recruitment, conducting coaching sessions, and to act as a liaison between the schools and the TCIFA • Conduct periodic visits to the outer islands to conduct coaching sessions, assist in and evaluate the various Grassroots and Youth Development Programs • Coach in games including local, regional, and international tournament and leagues • To prepare written reports on matters relating to football development as required • To undertake any other duties that might reasonably be deemed within the status of the job and appropriate to the post

Required Qualification & Skills • CONCACAF or US Soccer C License • Equivalent UEFA or other Football Confederations Licenses are also accepted.

• Excellent communication and leadership skills • Able to work in a standing position for long periods of time • Able to work outside, in all weather conditions • Good social and interpersonal skills • Able to maintain high energy levels • May be required to work on weekends and holidays • May travel periodically - US Visa is Required Working Conditions & Physical Requirements The job is physically demanding requiring the successful candidates to work outdoors for hours in various weather conditions. As such, the successful candidates must have the ability to stand for extended periods of time, see and read a computer screen and printed material with or without vision aids; hear and understand speech at normal levels.

Working Hours: 32 Hours per week, most coaching sessions occur during the hours of 6:00am – 8:00am or in the afternoon’s starting at 4:00pm.

Salary: Remuneration will be between $2000 to $3000 per month, dependent upon experience.

Please direct all applications to: Oliver A. Smith The General Secretary The Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association Venetian Road Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Email: olivertcifa@gmail.com The above-named positions are currently held by 2 work permit holders. TCIFA invites and encourages all prospective applicants who are Turks & Caicos Islanders to send their application to the Immigration Board & Labor Commissions.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

Deadline: December 12th, 2019

Page 32

WANTED

Port Atlantic Construction

Location 50 Turquoise Point Plaza, Dolphin Rd, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Is seeking One (1) Tailor & One (1) Seamstress Duties Include: Sewing garments, using needles and thread or sewing machines Must be able to fit and study garments on customers to determine required alterations To work 6 days a week Starting Salary is $7.00 per hour Both of these positions are new Interest Turks & Caicos Islander applicants must send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board #230358

Rochelle Thompson

Location: Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Seeks to employ a Domestic Worker Duties include house cleaning and laundry Must be honest and hardworking Salary is $6.25 per hour To work 5 days a week Please Contact: 3415288 This position is currently held by a non-belonger Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders are encouraged to send a copy of their application to the Labour Board

DOMESTIC WORKER

Location: Chalk Sound, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking a Domestic Worker Applicant must be a honest individual with a personable attitude and previous experience caring for a baby/toddler.

Must be willing to work 5 days a week including holidays and weekends when required.

Hours will also need to be flexible in order to accommodate evening service if needed.

This position is new Interested persons can contact Tamara Bassett at 649 232-4564 or tnsmith@gmail.com for submission of resumes.

Deadline is November 11th, 2019.

Kissia Thomas Cornwall

Kenya Forbes-Jagger

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

SUNSHINE VARIETY

MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL

Location: #42, Opposite The Office, Five Cays, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking one (1) Labourer Salary is $6.50 per hour Duties of a general labour vary They may include cleaning and preparing a job site, loading and delivering materials, and using a variety of tools and machines such as forklifts, levels, lifts, power drills, grinders, saws, pressure washers, and water spraying equipment To work 6 days as week Please Contact: 332-6622 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 Labour Board

Location: La Vista Azul, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking a Housekeeper The successful applicant will be responsible for the general cleaning such duties as dusting, sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, restroom cleaning etc To work 5 days per week Salary is $6.25 per hour This position is new Please Contact or email Contact is: kenya@ sensongroup.co Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders are encouraged to send a copy of their application to the Labour Board

STORE CLERK WANTED In Grand Turk Duties: Responsible for obtaining or receiving merchandise, totaling bills, accepting payments and making change for customers in retail store Applicant must be honest Reliable and hard working Salary $6.25 per hour To work 5 days per week Please Contact: 946-1061 This position is currently held by a Non-Belonger Applicants who are Turks & Caicos Islanders should also copies of their application to the Labour Board

TC Industrial Services

Pastor Malcolm

MBA Construction

Swann Construction

A & J Trucking

ANTONISE JEAN BAPTISTE FORBES In South Caicos Is seeking a Labourer To work 6 days per week This individual will be responsible for the general upkeep of the building and keeping the property clean at all times Salary: $6.25 per hour Please contact 341-9902 This position is currently held by a work permit holder Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders should send a copy of their application to the Labour Board

#603739

Location: #32 Industrial Park, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking (2) Labourers With knowledge of masonry, electrical and plumbing to work on construction sites Wages is $10.00 per hour One position is new and one position is currently held by a work permit holder All positions require a flexible schedule (to include holidays and weekends) and extended hours on occasions Applicants are required to submit applications to the Immigration Boards Zone 1 and TC Industrial at telephone941-4051 or email tcisimms@yahoo.com.

Closing date December 16th, 2019

Kostco Super Savors Location: #53A Airport Road, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Is seeking three (3) Store Supervisors - $11.50 per hour Duties: This can involve advising staff, providing regular performance reviews, training new staff members, and scheduling shifts.

Is seeking four (4) Domestic Workers - $6.50 per hour Duties include general cleaning; person must be honest and hardworking Is seeking three (3) Labourers - $8.00 per hour To work 6 days per week These positions are currently held by Work Permit Holders Please Contact: 232-1199 Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders should also send copies of their application to the Labour Board and Kostco Super Savors office on Airport Road

#603738

RHONDAL GRAY

Location: Apartment #8, Turtle Creek Drive, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking a Babysitter Duties: To care of a child, clean after the child (clothing, bottles etc) To work 5 days a week Salary is $6.50 per hour Please Contact: 331-5919 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 Labour Board

Location: Venetian Road, Chandelle Drive #20, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Seeks to employ a Domestic Live in Worker At a salary of $250.00 per 6-day week Hours will need to be flexible in order to flex for evening service when required.Successful applicants must be experiencedcaring for an elderly person and enjoy working with people Successful applicant will be required to maintain a clean household as well as do laundry and prepare meals. Nutritional food experience is an asset Must have a willing, positive and personable attitude.A valid driver’s license is a must Interested persons can email resume to rhondalgray@gmail.com or call 343-8566.

This position is a new position Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders are encouraged to send a copy of their application to the Labour Board

PROVO ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

Paradise Scooter ltd

Location: #18 Old Airport Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Seeks to employ a Bartender At a rate of $7.50 per hour during 6-day a week Applicants must be able to work on holidays and weekends Successful applicants must maintain knowledge of bar inventory and wine selection to respond to expertly to guest questions, have knowledge of spirits, beers, wines, cocktails and coffee, Respond to guest requests in a timely, friendly and efficient manner, rapport with guest to build loyal and satisfied customers, knowledge of bar and restaurant menu, promotions and specials Must have a willing, positive and personable attitude.

For more information call 244-0564 This position is a new position Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders are encouraged to send a copy of their application to the Labour Board.

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Located at #9 grace bay Plaza Grace bay Road Is seeking a Fulltime Mechanic Duties Include: inspecting and repairing vehicles, machinery, and light trucks. Also known as Service Technicians, these professionals oversee maintenance inspections, monitor inventory, assemble mechanical components, and perform repairs.

To work 6 days per week Must be able to show Qualifications Starting Salary - $9.00 per hour Please contact 331-4175 This position is a new position Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders are encouraged to send a copy of their application to the Labour Board.

South Caicos Is seeking – 2 (Labourers) Duties include: Requires general maintenance upkeep, repairs, yard work, trash removal, keep property secure.

Contact : 231-2894 These are renewal position Interest Turks & Caicos Islander applicants must send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board

DUDLEY LEROY LIGHTBOURNE Providenciales, Blue hills Is seeking a Domestic Worker To clean the house, cook, and do laundry Must work 6 days per week Salary: $ 6.25 per hour Please contact 246-6237 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 Labour Board

Provo Property Management – PPML

Location: #58 Tumpa Ave, Blue Hills, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Is seeking One (1) Helper Duties: Assist construction craft workers with various tasks; clean and prepare sites, machinery and equipment.

Salary is $7.00 per hour Must be able to work 6 days per week Please Contact: 242-3450 These position is currently held by work permit holder Applicants who are Turks & Caicos Islanders should also copies of their application to the Labour Board 603737 Location: 40 Uncle John’s Way, South Dock Road, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Is in need of Dump Trailer Driver & Waste Collector Is seeking Labourer - $6.25 per hour Is seeking Mechanic - $400.00 per week Is seeking – operator - $ 10:00 per hour Is seeking – Welder - $400.00 per week •Driver must have at least 5 years experience in driving 24ft-30ft Dump Trailer Salary is $10.00 per hour •Waste Collector must be willing to work on garbage trucks, cleaning garbage from roadsides and various districts in Providenciales.

Salary is $250.00 per week Interested Belongers must submit their application to the Labour Board and contact: Julie Smith Telephone # 231-0032 anytime These position are currently held by Work Permit Holders

Harvest Reapers International Ministries

Island Escape (TCI) Ltd is seeking candidates for the above position Tasks include but are not limited to painting, replacing parts, removing appliances and other general repairs including cutting pieces, installing items and replacing parts 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.

Providenciales, South Dock Is seeking – 1 (one) Cleaner Duties include: is cleaning offices, buildings, equipment, etc.

Salary: $6.50 per hour Contact : 241-5417 or 241-7348 This is a new position Interest Turks & Caicos Islander applicants must send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board

Drexwell Seymour

Location: 53 Parker Ave, Wheeland, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Needs a Maintenance Man Must be certified in plumbing and electrical, with past experience in construction and maintenance Must be prepared to work long hours, weekends, and holidays Must be prepared for occasional breaks in employment if demand is slow Starting wage is $7.00 per hour This is a new position.

Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders must send their applications/resume via email to: ppmltci@gmail.com with a copy to the Labour Board or call 649432-6622 for more info.

Location: Caribean Place, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Needs 2 (two) fulltime musician, An experience bass player that can assist with directing rehearsals and praise and worship team, Must be a Christian.

A Drummer - that can assist with directing rehearsals and praise and worship team, Must be a Christian.

Starting wage is $120.00 week These position are held by work permit holders.

Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders must send their applications/resume with a copy to the Labour Board

Location: 48 Chalk Sound Drive, Chalk Sound, Providenciales, TCI Is seeking a Nanny Hours: 8:30 am - 5 pm Working Days Monday - Saturday Duties Baby Sit Children Must be able to assist with children homework and housekeeping duties Must be able to perform CPR Salary $6.25 per hour Kindly send resumes to joannaseymour@hotmail.com This position is New Interest Turks and Caicos Islander applicants must send a copy of resume to Labour Board

KITCHANNDRA MCDONALD

PATRICIA ANN SIMMONS

Sparkle Cleaning Services

Location: Juba Sound, Moores Lanes 12, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Seeks to employ a Domestic Worker At a salary of $300.00 per 6-day week Hours will need to be flexible in order to flex for evening service when required.

Successful applicants must be experiencedcaring for a 5-year-old and enjoy working with children Additional duties include house cleaning, and cooking person must be honest and hardworking.

Must have a willing, positive and personable attitude.A valid driver’s license is a must For more information call 244-0564.

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 Labour Board

NEEDS LABOURER In Salt Cay With knowledge of masonry, electrical and plumbing to work on construction sites Salary is $6.25 per hour To work 5 days per week Please Contact 241-1925 This position is new Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders are required to submit applications to the Labour Board

Needed Urgently: Four (4) Cleaners/Car washers Duties: Washing and detailing automobiles Wages: On a commission basis Qualification: Honest, hardworking, highly motivated, Friendly, must be able to work under minimum supervision and flexible hours, Ability to safely operate motor vehicle Experience is essential.

Closing date for application is These positions are held by Work Permit Holders December 13th, 2019 Applicants who are Turks & Caicos islander should also copies of their application to the immigration board or use directly: Sparkle Cleaning Services Suite 5, Southside Plaza, Five Cays Road, Providenciales Tel: (649)241-0237 Email: carwashguy@hotmail.com

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

CARIBBEAN WORLD

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CARIBBEAN NEWS

NEWS NEWS

Scotiabank to trim staff in Barbados

Up to 20 Scotiabank (Barbados) staff members could find themselves on the breadline as a result of the sale of the financial institution’s Eastern Caribbean operations, Barbados TODAY has learned.

However, though not confirming the numbers or when the layoff process started, the bank said in a brief statement to this newspaper that the restructuring was necessary and discussions about the changes were held.

“As a result of the completion of the sale of Scotiabank operations in seven Eastern Caribbean countries, we will be restructuring our Managing Director’s Office in Barbados, particularly the centralized functions that supported the divested businesses,” the bank said.

“We have been discussing these changes with both our employees and our union partners over the past several months,” it added.

The Toronto-based bank drastically scaled down its operations earlier this month when it finalized an approximately US$123 million deal with Republic Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL), which operates Republic Bank.

The countries directly affected by the sale were, St Maarten and the Eastern Caribbean territories of Anguilla, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

The operations will go to the RFHL, while the Scotia life insurance subsidiaries in Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago will go to a new Sagicor subsidiary.

Scotiabank said the decision to restructure a portion of the Barbados market was not taken lightly and that the bank was committed to supporting employees throughout the process.

“Wherever possible, affected staff members will be redeployed

BVI visas to go on sale, Premier announces

Visa passport stamp

Persons will soon be able to purchase visitor visas for a one-week stay in the British Virgin Islands.

Premier and Minister for Tourism Andrew Fahie made the announcement while delivering his budget address in the House of Assembly on Tuesday, November 19.

“To support the growth of visitor arrivals and fill our hotel rooms, particularly with persons with spending power, special visitors’ visas will be introduced allowing certain categories of visitors one-week stays,” Fahie said.

“They (visitors) would be able to purchase these visas at the airport of their departure or here in the BVI,” he added.

While he did not divulge the cost or any other information on this new undertaking, the Premier said the sale of visas “would provide another revenue stream for the territory”.

In the meantime, the leader of government business said the BVI Airports Authority (BVIAA) has commenced talks with Caribbean Airlines Limited to add the Virgin Islands to their list of flight destinations.

“There is optimism that this will happen in 2020,” Fahie told the House of Assembly.

He also said Silver Airways is set to add their 48 and 72 seater ATR aircraft to the BVI route by April 2020.

“This will significantly increase airlift to and from the territory and make it more convenient to connect with other destinations.

The marketing strategy of these two airlines involves promoting the calendar of events – in the BVI’s case, our events such as Emancipation Festival, Lobster Fest, Virgin Gorda Easter Festival and our regattas – to boost their bookings.

This will help the BVI to increase our visitor arrivals, providing direct benefits to our hotel, accommodation, and hospitality sectors,” the Premier noted.

to other areas of the business. The proposed staff changes will not affect our customers or customer service,” the bank assured, without saying what the changes would be specifically.

However, the commercial banking institution said it remained devoted to the Barbados market, reiterating comments made recently by its Senior Vice President of International Banking Brandon King during a recent visit.

“Scotiabank remains committed to Barbados. We continue to invest in new technology to help our customers as well as in our young people and communities,” said the bank.

Earlier this month, King pointed out that the bank would continue to invest in building out its digital footprint across the island in an effort to enhance customer experiences.

“Barbados remains a great

market for us and we look forward to growing here for many years to come,” he added then.

Between 2015 and 2016, Scotiabank closed more than 30 branches and cut about ten per cent of its Caribbean workforce.

While at the time it was not made known how many people from Barbados would be affected, the bank did close its Black Rock, St Michael branch on June 12, but promised no jobs would be lost.

In July of this year the bank then closed its Holetown, St James branch, in keeping with the shrinking of its footprint in the region. That location was consolidated into the Warrens, St Michael branch, and at that time the bank had promised no job losses.

Scotiabank has been operating in Barbados since 1956.

Antigua Police commissioner stripped of rank and pension the Minister with

After 32 years of service in with the Royal Police Force of Antigua responsibility for the Police and Barbuda, Commissioner of Service, Steadroy Benjamin has Police, Wendel Robinson, has “severely compromised” his ability to effectively perform his duties, been dismissed without pension.

In a letter, dated November adding that it is “inimical to the 25th, 2019 by Chairman of the interests of good governance of Police Service Commission (PSC), Antigua and Barbuda”.

Kelvin John, told Robinson that In the letter to Robsinson, the Commission was exercising its John stated that the suspended powers under the constitution of officer that the treatment of Antigua and Barbuda, and felt that his entitlement to pension is it was “in the public interest” that documented in “Section 7 of he be removed from the office of the Pensions Act”, which states that “Where an officer’s service is Commissioner of Police.

Robinson’s termination terminated on the grounds that… takes place with immediate effect. such termination is desirable in

The PSC chairman also the public interest, and a pension, reiterated that Robinson did gratuity or other allowance cannot not “possess the suitability of otherwise be granted to him under temperament that accords with the provisions of this Act”.

According to that Act, the office of Commissioner of Police” and that his relationship the Governor-General may, if he

Commissioner of Police, Wendel Robinson thinks fit, grant pension, gratuity or other allowance “as he thinks just and proper”, not exceeding the amount that the officer would receive, had he retired from the public service.

Oil brightens Guyana’s prospects GEORGETOWN, Guyana – President David Granger said Wednesday that the emerging petroleum industry provides an “exciting economic and enterprising development” for Guyana and will enhance economic growth by increasing investment, including upstream investment.

Addressing the Guyana International Petroleum Exhibition (GIPEX) 2019, Granger insisted that the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country has a “bright future” and that the “prospects for economic progress and prosperity are limitless, given its bountiful natural and human resources and the significant petroleum discoveries in the country’s maritime zone.”

Guyana is preparing to begin commercial exploration of its oil sector next year after

the country gained attention in May 2015 when the US-based oil company, ExxonMobil, announced the discovery of more than 90 meters of highquality, oil-bearing sandstone reservoirs about 200 km off the country’s coastline. Guyana production is projected to average 40 000 barrels per day (b/d) in 2020 and as much as 160 000 b/d in 2023, according to a Platts Analytics forecast.

In his address, Granger said that Guyana’s Green State Development Strategy: Vision 2040 is its development roadmap for the next 20 years and aims “an inclusive and prosperous Guyana that provides a good quality of life for all its citizens based on sound education and social protection, low-carbon and resilient development, providing new economic

opportunities, justice, and political empowerment.”

He said the strategy recognizes the catalytic impact which the petroleum industry will have on the country’s economy, including “providing it with the opportunity to shift its development path, modernize its economy and transform the lives of its citizens.”

President Granger said Guyana will employ its petroleum industry revenues to strengthen the traditional pillars of the economy, extend and improve its infrastructure, diversify the economy along a green trajectory of development and enhance, further, its human resources and institutional capacity.

He said these developments would catalyze tremendous business and employment opportunities.

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CARIBBEAN NEWS

‘Reconstruction grants not for ‘shopping’ or ‘cruises’, says Bahamian PM

The government of The Bahamas has implemented strict criteria to ensure that reconstruction grants are not used for shopping or trips to Miami, Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis said.

Roughly $10 million has been allocated as funding for victims of Hurricane Dorian to rebuild their houses that were destroyed or damaged by the storm, according to the prime minister.

According to the Nassau Guardian, during a press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister, Minnis said, “Ten thousand dollars, both you and I know that if our homes are destroyed and government or anybody give you $10,000; $10,000 cannot build any home.

“The tendency – as we’ve seen before with education, etc. – the tendency has been to take that $10,000

and go shopping, go on a cruise and buy whatever you want. A policy will be enacted so that once an individual has commenced the construction of their home, once they reach a certain level of progression, then they will receive the $10,000 which goes directly into the home and not to Miami or to the cruise industry.

“So, there will be complete checks and balances, policy guidelines and in addition to that the minister responsible for this ministry will report to the nation via Cabinet and communication every three months as to the expenditure and progression.”

Last month, the prime minister explained that the proposed trust fund will provide the most vulnerable residents affected by natural disasters with up to a $10,000 grant per household to assist families by providing building

Bail for three police in St Vincent facing criminal charges

Three members of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) have been suspended from the force.

According to the police press release, the RSVGPF arrested and charged three serving police officers - two with the offence of rape, and the other with the offences of burglary and criminal trespasses. The charges were laid against the officers on Thursday, November 28, 2019 and on Friday November 29, 2019, respectively.

One of the officers appeared before the Family Court on Thursday and did not have to enter a plead for the indictable offence. He was granted bail with one surety.

The other two police officers appeared before the Family Court and the Serious Offences Court on Friday, November 29, for an arraignment.

Today, Monday, December 2, an officer in the public Relations Department confirmed to Loop News that they were granted bail on Friday.

The police officers have been placed on suspension.

Prime Minister of The Bahamas Dr. Hubert Minnis supplies, labor or some combination of both.

He has said a committee of

subject matter experts will help to operationalize the fund’s efforts and to connect public and private stakeholders.

“This will be ran by the independent, non-political organization and inspectors from the Ministry of Works will go out and make determinations and assessments as to the conditions of homes,” Minnis said on Sunday.

“We’ve made a commitment where individuals may receive $2,500; $,5,000; $7,000; or $10,000. Ten thousand dollars given to those whose homes are completely destroyed.”

The government will provide the initial funds to start-up the trust, according to Minnis.

Dorian struck Abaco and Grand Bahama in early September.

It impacted nearly 30,000 people and killed at least 70.

US Coast Guard cutter seized more than 300 kilograms of cocaine in Caribbean, worth more than $9 million

WILMINGTON, N.C. The crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Diligence returned home to Wilmington just in time for Thanksgiving on Thursday after completing a 60-day patrol in the Caribbean.

“The Diligence performed counter drug, search and rescue, and alien migrant interdiction operations in support of Coast Guard District Seven and Joint Interagency Task Force (JIATF) South,” the Coast Guard said in a news release Thursday.

While working with Coast Guard Sector San Juan, Puerto Rico, the Diligence seized more than 300 kilograms of cocaine, worth more than $9 million. It also was responsible for the disruption of more than 800 kilograms of cocaine, worth more than $25 million.

Two alleged drug smugglers were apprehended in the operation and turned

over to U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration authorities in St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands for prosecution.

The Diligence crew also helped facilitate the transfer of 5,000 kilograms of cocaine and 11 drug smugglers interdicted by other Coast Guard cutters to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration for prosecution.

While on patrol, the Diligence also “interdicted three illegal and unsafe migrant smuggling vessels in the Mona Pass between the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico; and repatriated 76 of the migrants to the Dominican Republic Navy and turned over four migrants suspected to be in violation of U.S. immigration laws to U.S. Customs authorities in Puerto Rico.”

Earlier this month, the Diligence found a Haitian vessel disabled and adrift off the north coast of Haiti. The Diligence took

the vessel in tow, and delivered it and its 13 passengers to a safe harbor on the north coast of Haiti.

The Diligence crew also assisted the Royal Bahamian Police and Defense Forces in rescuing 86 Haitian migrants stranded on a desolate beach on Great Inagua Island with no food or water after their vessel had run aground.

The Diligence brought all 86 persons aboard the cutter, and safely brought them to Bahamian Customs authorities in Matthew Town, Great Inagua.

“Diligence had a remarkably busy and productive patrol,” said Cmdr. Luke M. Slivinski, Diligence’s Commanding Officer. “Our success in carrying out numerous challenging operations in an unforgiving maritime environment across a range of Coast Guard missions was a testament to the professionalism, hard work, and determination of the crew.”

Drug kingpin from DR arrested in Colombia

An alleged drug trafficker whose name surfaced over the summer in connection with the shooting of Red Sox legend David Ortiz was arrested Monday in Colombia on a US warrant charging him with cocaine and heroin distribution, authorities said.

The attorney general’s office in Colombia announced the arrest of César Emilio Peralta, 44, also known as “El Abusador,” or “The Abuser,” in a statement Monday.

He had been wanted by the FBI since late 2018 for his decade of alleged drug trafficking in Latin America, moveing heroin and cocaine through Colombia, Venezuela, the Dominican Republic and the United States. Peralta was the subject of an extradition request by federal prosecutors in South Florida and Puerto Rico. He was arrested in the

Boca Grande section of Colombia, the statement said.

The Florida indictment alleges Peralta and several other suspects conspired to distribute cocaine, knowing it would be imported into the United States. Peralta’s name also was mentioned in August in connection with the shooting of Ortiz.

The retired slugger was shot in the back at close range in June as he sat with friends in a patio area of a popular night spot in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Ortiz survived, but details of the attack that stunned the sports world have remained shrouded in mystery.

Initially, Dominican authorities said Ortiz had been targeted in a botched hit job.

But investigators later

told reporters the Dominican-born ballplayer, revered as a hero in his native country, was mistakenly shot by assailants targeting another man, Sixto David Fernández, at the behest of Victor Hugo Gomez Vasquez.

Vasquez, authorities said, had allegedly sought to kill Fernández for informing on him about a decade ago. The claim prompted widespread skepticism. Ortiz is 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighed about 245 pounds at the time of the June shooting. He has a dark complexion, while the lightskinned Fernández is thin and about 5 feet 6 inches tall.

Here’s where Peralta figures into the story: Vasquez, before his June 28 arrest in connection with Ortiz’s shooting, released a video denying involvement in the attack and claiming

Drug kingpin César Emilio Peralta that Fernández was closely tied to Peralta. Vasquez didn’t lay blame on anyone for the shooting.

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CARIBBEAN NEWS

Coral dredging in Cayman Islands: ‘It’s going to cause irreversible damage’

Campaigners in the Cayman Islands say they are fighting a “David and Goliath” battle against the world’s biggest cruise lines that want to redevelop the country’s port to accommodate huge ships.

“I fear that it’s going to cause some irreversible damage that we can’t ever change, take back or fix in the future,” says Michelle Lockwood, one of those opposed to the coral dredging that will be needed to enlarge the port.

It’s just gone 9am in Grand Cayman and the Royal Watler Cruise Terminal is already crowded. Hundreds of tourists are disembarking from a fleet of small tenders from two enormous ships anchored just off George Town harbour, that loom like giant white whales.

As the visitors step onto the dock, some of them pose for a photograph with workers dressed as pirates. This is the Caribbean after all. But away from the holidaymakers heading for the island’s famous Seven Mile Beach, tension is in the air.

The cruise ships and the coral reef beneath them are at the heart of a dispute that has pitted local scientists, conservationists and small businesses against the world’s largest cruise companies - Royal Caribbean and Carnival - with a combined market value of $55bn (£42bn).

The cruise lines are leading a consortium - Verdant Isle - to build a $250m new jetty and berthing facility on Grand Cayman. They say their new liners, which will carry almost 9,000 people, won’t use the tenders to ferry passengers ashore.

It will make disembarking quicker and easier for tourists but it means dredging the harbour destroying at least 10 acres (4ha) of coral reef.

“It’s a really unique area, that’s why Cayman is so famous for its diving and snorkelling, it’s just pristine,” says Nadia Hardie, the head of The National Trust for the Cayman Islands.

“There are so many different varieties of marine life but also coral, we have endangered species here which we have to protect and that’s what’s really at risk.”

Caymanians will vote on the proposal in a referendum expected early next year.

“We know that a pier

The cruise companies want their biggest ships to be able to dock directly in George Town is much better for the guest experience,” says TJ O’Sullivan of Royal Caribbean Cruises. “Guests will come off the ship at a much higher rate and spend more time in port.”

But many local tour operators are unconvinced. They say cruise firms already take most of what passengers spend by pre-selling tours onboard. They worry that by funding the port redevelopment, the cruise companies will have greater control of the local tourism sector.

“We will be left out,” says one guide who doesn’t want to be named. “Pre-booked [tours] will increase more, they will force us out of business.”

Mario Blanchette is a scuba instructor at the nearby Eden Rock Diving Centre. “Unfortunately, they will be digging a lot. All that silt and sand will eventually start making its way over our reef.

“Eventually Eden Rock and other businesses that rely on the reef will have to shut down.”

His concerns are shared by lifeguard Bernard Rockett.

“People come here for the diving experience - to see the beautiful creatures that we have in the water and the coral life,” he says.

The Verdant Isle consortium says the amount of material clouding the water will be closely monitored, as corals die if they get smothered.

“We’ll have turbidity, siltmonitoring buoys that read in real time,” says Barry Loudermilk of Orion Marine Group, the firm set to dredge the harbour if the project goes ahead. And dredging will be carried out by a specialised backhoe that operators say has a lower impact on the environment than

hydraulic dredging.

I ask him if he’s certain there won’t be lasting damage to the reef. “What I’m certain of is, if there is a ‘yes’ vote, we have a lot of [environmental] modelling to do. I think a lot of the fears will be settled once we complete all our modelling.”

So isn’t that a bit of a risk? “Everything’s a risk,” says Mr Loudermilk. “But we’ve brought the best specialised teams to handle the delicate environmental approach to this project.”

Opponents point to the experience of Falmouth, Jamaica.

In 2009, Royal Caribbean built a $170m new pier but the number of cruise ships visiting Jamaica has since fallen.

Opposition Cayman Islands legislative assembly member Chris Saunders says the Cayman Islands had almost 60% more cruise passengers than Jamaica in June even though Jamaica has three main ports and Grand Cayman has none.

“The cruise lines already skilfully beguiled the Jamaican people with regards to the port in Falmouth and they are trying to do the same with Cayman. Let’s not make the same mistake.”

Royal Caribbean says tourists have become less interested in visiting Jamaica, and that’s been reflected in the company’s itineraries.

The Cayman Islands government is confident the new facilities will boost cruise tourism meaning more jobs for islanders. To help fund the project, its agreed that part of the tax tourists pay to visit the Cayman Islands will be given to Verdant Isle - for 25 years.

Caribbean protest over high air fares

High airfares continue to be a “vexing issue” for people throughout the region, says the Citizens Against High IntraRegional Caribbean Travel Taxes.

The group has started a petition to lobby governments in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) for lower fares.

Last May, the group started an online petition and has so far garnered just over 20,000 signatures. Copies were delivered to heads of regional governments last month.

However, the group said in a short statement that so far only two heads of state have acknowledged receipt.

“Over the last two weeks, packages containing copies of the petition bearing over 20,000 signatures were dispatched to the offices of the CARICOM Heads of

Government and the Secretariat in Guyana. Also included in the packages was a letter to each Head of Government, cogently outlining the case for dialogue on the vexing issue of high intra-regional Caribbean travel taxes and fees,” the group said.

“To date, only the Offices of the President of Guyana, His Excellency Brigadier David Granger and the Honourable Dr Keith Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada have acknowledged receipt of our communication,” the statement said.

The group said it was calling on the other CARICOM Heads of Government to respond to the petition submitted to their offices.

“By signing our petition, the people of the region are collectively asking to be heard

on the important issue of intraregional travel taxes. We hope that our leaders see it fit to engage with their constituents on this matter,” it said.

In its petition, the group pointed out that the region was heavily dependent on air transport to support the tourism industry, but said high and increasing taxes, fees and charges have contributed to a decline in intra-regional travel in recent years.

“CARICOM governments have turned regional airlines into major tax collectors and pushed the cost of travel beyond the reach of many Caribbean citizens,” the group said.

The petition was designed to put pressure on CARICOM governments to “re-evaluate” the current taxes, fees and charges regime on intra-regional travel.

Haitian schools reopen after months of unrest

Protected by police patrols, thousands of Haitian children began to return to school Monday after months of violent unrest forced schools to shut around the country.

Some schools were about a quarter full in response to the Education Ministry’s call last week to reopen public and private schools. Others had only a handful of students or didn’t open at all.

Like virtually all government offices and private businesses, Haitian schools closed during more than two months of protests aimed at pressuring President Jovenel Moise to leave office.

Protesters say Moise has mismanaged the economy and tolerated corruption. Moise says he is trying to steer the country toward greater stability and will not cede to what he calls unconstitutional demands for him to leave office before his term is over.

High school senior Yollande Chery arrived at her school to find only four other students and one teacher.

“It hurts knowing that in other countries schools are in session,” she said. “Staying home is not what I want to do. I want to be at school with my friends.”

At the public Lycee de Petionville, in a relatively prosperous section of the capital, about 400 children showed up for class. The school holds about 2,000 students when at full enrollment.

Director Jean-Marc Charles said the school had been trying to keep older students up to date by sending them homework assignments through online chat program WhatsApp.

He said the school would hold classes on Saturdays and eliminate all but a couple of days of Christmas vacation in order to help students try to catch up on their studies.

He said that the school had no choice but to close during the protests, which included roadblocks, clashes with police and ransacking of local businesses.

“Protests were happening while kids were in the classroom,” he said. “That was causing panic, and kids couldn’t go home sometimes due to roadblocks.

That was traumatic.”

In Port-au-Prince, police cars patrolled outside many reopening schools.

In other cities, such as Gonaives in northern Haiti, many schools were closed due to continued roadblocks and fear of violence.

Saint Lucia is world’s leading honeymoon destination again!

The results are in and destination Saint Lucia has been adjudged winner of the prestigious title of World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination for a record 11th time.

The announcement of the highly coveted industry accolade was made on November 28th at the 26th Annual Gala Ceremony of the World Travel Awards in Oman.

Saint Lucia won amidst a crowded group of renowned honeymoon hotspots from around the world. An island where the greatest love stories unfold, romance, weddings & honeymoons continues to be a major niche market for Saint Lucia.

In receiving the award, Chairman of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA),

Mr. Nicholas John, noted the island’s specific brand focus, “that places emphasis on its alluring beauty, romantic appeal, diverse culture, verdant landscapes, delightful people and the infectious and inspiring love for the island.”

To help celebrate the momentous win, the SLTA has launched an interactive social media competition that will see one lucky person winning a 5-night stay for two at

Sandals Grande St. Lucia Spa & Beach Resort.

Interested persons simply need to watch the SLTA’s Instagram stories for the next 11 days and answer correctly 11 engaging questions about destination Saint Lucia. The winner will be randomly selected on December 10, 2019 and must be following @ TravelSaintLucia to qualify.

Apart from winning the highly coveted award, Saint Lucia was also nominated in three other categories, namely, World’s Leading Island Destination, World’s Leading Wedding Destination and World’s Most Romantic Destination 2019.

The World Travel Awards is voted for by travel and tourism professionals and consumers worldwide.

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WORLD

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

NEWS

Pelosi says Democrats to pursue articles of impeachment against Trump U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Thursday said she has directed a House committee to draft articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump over his effort to pressure Ukraine to investigate a political rival, a historic step that sets up a fight over whether to oust him from office.

Pelosi, speaking in somber tones in a televised statement, accused Trump of abusing his power and alluded to Britain’s King George III, the monarch against whom the American colonies rebelled in forming the United States in 1776.

“Our democracy is what is at stake. The president leaves us no choice but to act because he is trying to corrupt, once again, the election for his own benefit. The president has engaged in abuse of power, undermining our national security and jeopardizing the integrity of our elections,” Pelosi said.

The impeachment fight undertaken by Pelosi and her fellow House Democrats is unfolding even as the Republican president is running for re-election in 2020.

At the heart of the battle is Trump’s request in July that Ukraine launch an investigation targeting former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, a top contender for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination to face Trump.

“Sadly, but with confidence and humility, with allegiance to our founders and our heart full of love for America, today I am asking our chairman to proceed with articles of impeachment,” Pelosi said, referring to House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler.

Articles of impeachment represent formal charges against Trump and would originate in the Judiciary Committee before going to the full House. If the Democraticled House passes articles of impeachment as expected, that would lead to a trial in the Senate on whether to convict Trump of those charges and remove him from office. Republicans control the Senate and have shown little support for Trump’s removal.

Trump reacted to Pelosi’s

announcement on Twitter by writing, “The Do Nothing, Radical Left Democrats have just announced that they are going to seek to Impeach me over NOTHING.”

“The good thing is that the Republicans have NEVER been more united. We will win!” Trump added, while predicting that impeachment now “will be used routinely to attack future Presidents. That is not what our Founders had in mind.”

Pelosi acted after receiving overwhelming support to push forward with the impeachment U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) charges in a meeting with House discusses the status of the impeachment Democrats on Wednesday night, a inquiry into U.S. President Donald Trump on source familiar with the meeting Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., December said.

5, 2019

On Wednesday, the Judiciary Committee held a hearing Congress to help Ukraine combat in which three constitutional Russia-backed separatists in the law experts called by Democratic eastern part of the country - was lawmakers said Trump had provided to Ukraine in September engaged in conduct that represents after the controversy had spilled impeachable offenses under the into public view.

Constitution. A fourth expert called

by Republican lawmakers called ‘A KING-PRESIDENT’ the Democratic-led impeachment inquiry rushed and flawed.

“When crafting the

The three law professors Constitution, the founders feared chosen by the Democrats made the return of a monarchy in clear that they believed Trump’s America. And having just fought actions constituted impeachable a War of Independence, they offenses including abuse of power, specifically feared the prospect of a bribery, obstruction of Congress king-president corrupted by foreign and obstruction of justice. influence,” Pelosi said.

The focus of the inquiry is ` Trump has denied any the July 25 telephone call in which wrongdoing and called the Trump asked Ukrainian President impeachment investigation a hoax.

Volodymyr Zelenskiy to open an The House may vote investigation into Biden and his son by year’s end on the formal Hunter Biden and into a discredited impeachment charges, but theory promoted by Trump and Democrats, who control the his allies that Ukraine, not Russia, chamber, say no decision has been meddled in the 2016 U.S. election. made at this point on the specific

Hunter Biden had joined charges. Those could include abuse the board of Ukrainian energy of power, bribery, obstruction of company Burisma while his father Congress and obstruction of justice. was U.S. vice president. Trump has Judiciary Committee Democrats accused the Bidens of corruption on Wednesday said they may without offering evidence. They look beyond Trump’s relations have denied wrongdoing. with Ukraine to include Trump’s

Democrats have accused earlier efforts to impede former Trump of abusing his power Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s by withholding $391 million investigation that documented in security aid to Ukraine - a Russian interference in the 2016 vulnerable U.S. ally facing Russian election and extensive contacts aggression - as leverage to pressure between Trump’s campaign and Kiev into conducting investigations Moscow. They stopped short of politically beneficial to Trump. The saying that could trigger a separate money - approved by the U.S. charge.

Trump administration moves to remove 700,000 people from food stamps

The Trump administration said on Wednesday it will make it harder for states to keep residents in the U.S. food stamp program in a move that is projected to end benefits for nearly 700,000 people.

President Donald Trump has argued that many Americans receiving food stamps through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as SNAP, do not need it given the strong economy and low unemployment. The program provides free food to 36 million Americans.

The administration has now finalized a rule that tightens guidelines on when and where states can waive limits on how long certain residents can receive benefits. The changes will move more “able-bodied” adults into

the workplace, U.S. Agriculture of Agriculture, which runs SNAP.

The agency is stiffening Secretary Sonny Perdue said.

“States are seeking waivers guidelines defining where for wide swaths of their population, recipients can reside to be eligible and millions of people who could for waivers and standards for work are continuing to receive demonstrating whether an area has enough jobs to justify a waiver.

SNAP benefits,” he told reporters.

The U.S. unemployment

The United States generally limits the amount of time rate was 3.6% in October. that adults ages 18-49, who do not “We need everyone who have dependents or a disability, can work to work,” Perdue said. can receive food stamps to three ` But critics say the moves months in a 36-month period, will hurt poor Americans.

“This is an unacceptable unless they meet certain work requirements. escalation of the administration’s

States can apply for war on working families, and it waivers to this time limit due comes during a time when too to tough economic conditions. many are forced to stretch alreadyHowever, counties with an thin budgets to make ends meet,” unemployment rate as low as 2.5% said U.S. Representative Marcia have been included in waived areas, Fudge, an Ohio Democrat. according to the U.S. Department

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

Biden says he would consider Harris for vice presidential slot

Former Vice President Joe Biden and U.S. Senator Kamala Harris gesture on the second night of the second 2020 Democratic U.S. presidential debate in Detroit, Michigan, July 31, 2019

A day after U.S. Senator Kamala Harris ended her 2020 presidential bid, former Vice President Joe Biden, a leading contender for the Democratic nomination, said on Wednesday he would consider her as a potential running mate.

Biden, with whom Harris clashed during a Democratic debate earlier this year, praised her after a campaign event in Ames, Iowa.

“Senator Harris has the capacity to be anything she wants to be,” Biden told reporters, according to a video posted by CBS News. “I talked to her yesterday. She’s solid. She can be the president one day herself. She can be the vice president. She can go on to be a Supreme Court justice.”

Biden and Harris had a contentious exchange over forced busing in public schools in the first Democratic debate in Miami in June. It was a standout moment for Harris, who saw her fortunes briefly rise in her party’s contest for the right to challenge Republican President Donald Trump in next year’s election.

But any rift appears to have been closed.

Biden praised Harris effusively on Tuesday after she dropped out. Harris was close friends with Biden’s son Beau, before he died of brain cancer in 2015.

Biden told reporters on Wednesday that “of course I would” consider Harris to be his running mate.

Earlier this year, Harris, 55, was viewed as a prime contender in the crowded Democratic presidential field. But organizational and financial woes, along with her struggles to make a compelling case for her candidacy, derailed her campaign.

The U.S. senator from California could potentially bring much to a ticket. A former prosecutor, state attorney general and only the second black woman elected to the Senate, she is still considered a rising star within the party.

After Harris’ exit, 15 Democrats are left to battle for the party’s nomination.

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DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

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WORLD NEWS

Suriname president gets 20 years in jail for murder

Suriname’s President Desi Bouterse

Suriname’s President Desi Bouterse has been sentenced to 20 years in prison over the execution of 15 political opponents in 1982.

Bouterse, 74, is currently on an official visit in China and will have two weeks to appeal against the conviction.

He was found guilty of planning and ordering the extrajudicial execution of 15 political prisoners.

The president has previously denied the allegations.

He claimed the victims, who included lawyers, union leaders and journalists, were shot while trying to escape a colonial-era fortress in Paramaribo, the capital of the South American country.

Bourtese led Suriname during the 1980s as head of a military government and de facto leader.

He took office as president in 2010, following a democratic election and was elected for another term in 2015.

The court ruled that the president had overseen an operation which involved soldiers under his command kidnapping 16 government critics, including lawyers, journalists and university professors.

Only one of the detainees - a union leader - survived the killings and was able to testify against Bouterse.

Who is President Bouterse?

After playing an active role in a 1980 coup d’etat against Prime Minister Henck Arron, Bouterse was promoted to head of the army and made de facto leader of Suriname until 1987.

He later left the army to lead the National Democratic Party (NDP), which came to power in 2010.

The party has repeatedly tried to halt this trial and six people accused of being involved have already died since it began 12 years ago.

In 2012, the National Assembly passed an amnesty law granting Bouterse immunity, which was later invalidated by a court ruling.

Kamala Harris ends White House bid, citing lack of funding

Sen. Kamala Harris told supporters on Tuesday that she was ending her bid for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination, an abrupt close to a candidacy that held historic potential.

“I’ve taken stock and looked at this from every angle, and over the last few days have come to one of the hardest decisions of my life,” the California Democrat said.

“My campaign for president simply doesn’t have the financial resources we need to continue.”

A senior campaign aide said Harris made the decision Monday after discussing the path forward with family and other top officials over the Thanksgiving holiday.

Her withdrawal marked a Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif., speaks during a Democratic dramatic fall for a candidate who presidential primary debate in Atlanta showed extraordinary promise in her harder to raise the money we need “Because we have refused bid to become the first black female to compete.” to confront our mistakes, foster an president. Harris launched her Harris suffered from what environment of critical thinking campaign in front of 20,000 people allies and critics viewed as an and honest feedback, or trust the on a chilly January day in Oakland, inconsistent pitch to voters. Her expertise of talented staff, we California. The first woman and slogan “For the people” referenced find ourselves making the same first black attorney general and U.S. her career as a prosecutor, a record unforced errors over and over,” senator in California’s history, she that was viewed skeptically by the Kelly Mehlenbacher wrote in her was widely viewed as a candidate party’s most progressive voters. letter, obtained by The New York poised to excite the multiracial Through the summer, she Times. Mehlenbacher now works coalition of voters that sent Barack focused on pocketbook issues and for businessman Bloomberg’s Obama to the White House. her “3 a.m. agenda,” a message campaign.

Her departure erodes the that never seemed to resonate with With Harris’ exit, 15 diversity of the Democratic field, voters. By the fall, she had returned Democrats remain in the race for which is dominated at the moment to her courtroom roots with the the nomination. Several praised her by a top tier that is white and mostly refrain that “justice is on the ballot,” on Tuesday. male. both a cry for economic and social Harris anchored her

Harris ultimately could justice as well as her call that she campaign in the powerful legacy of not craft a message that resonated could “prosecute the case” against a pioneering African Americans. Her with voters or secure the money to “criminal” president. campaign launch on the Martin continue her run.

At times, she was tripped Luther King Jr. holiday included a

She raised an impressive up by confusing policy positions; nod to Shirley Chisholm, the New $12 million in the first three months particularly on health care. After York congresswoman who sought of her campaign and quickly locked suggesting she would eliminate the Democratic Party’s presidential down major endorsements meant private insurance in favor of a fully nomination 47 years ago earlier. to show her dominance in her government-run system, Harris But Harris struggled to chip home state, which offers the biggest eventually rolled out a health care away at Biden’s deep advantage delegate haul in the Democratic plan that preserves a role for private with black voters who are critical primary contest. insurance. to winning the Democratic

In her note to supporters, Stumbles, often of the nomination.

Harris lamented the role of money campaign’s making, continued Harris and her aides believe in politics and, without naming to dog Harris into the winter, she faced an uphill battle — and them, took a shot at billionaires Tom stymieing her ability to capitalize unfair expectations for perfection — Steyer and Michael Bloomberg, who on solid moments. Her message from the start as a woman of color. are funding their own presidential was regularly overshadowed by Her campaign speech included a bids. campaign aides and allies sharing line about what Harris called the

“I’m not a billionaire,” grievances with the news media. “donkey in the room,” a reference she said. “I can’t fund my own Several top aides decamped for to the thought that Americans campaign. And as the campaign other campaigns, one leaving a wouldn’t elect a woman of color. has gone on, it’s become harder and blistering resignation letter.

Zimbabwe’s Mugabe left behind $10 million, some properties: state media

Zimbabwe’s former leader Robert Mugabe, who died in September, left $10 million and some properties in the capital, but no will naming his beneficiaries, details of his estate published by state-owned newspaper the Herald showed on Tuesday.

Zimbabweans have speculated for years about the extent of Mugabe’s wealth, with many assuming that he and his family amassed a vast fortune during his 37 years in power.

Mugabe’s daughter Bona Chikowore wrote in October to the Master of the High Court seeking to register her father’s estate, the Herald reported. It listed assets including $10 million held in a local bank, four houses in Harare, 10 cars, one farm, his rural home and an orchard.

One of the properties is the palatial home known as Blue Roof in an upmarket suburb of the capital where Mugabe lived.

The list does not include several farms that he reportedly owned or a dairy business he ran with wife Grace, or any properties outside Zimbabwe.

The Herald said Mugabe’s

Zimbabwe’s President Robert Mugabe reads a card during his 93rd birthday celebrations in Harare, Zimbabwe, February 21, 2017 lawyer Terrence Hussein had also asked the court to register the estate, saying he and the family had not found any will left by Zimbabwe’s founding leader.

Under Zimbabwean laws, the estate of a person who dies without a will is distributed between their spouse and children.

“Thus far, we have not been able to locate a will, but have sent out

enquiries to other law firms, although the family members are not aware of any,” Hussein wrote in a letter to the High Court that was quoted by the Herald.

Hussein did not respond to calls and questions from Reuters for comment. Chikowore did not answer calls to her mobile phone.

A diplomatic cable from the

U.S. Embassy in Harare in 2001 that was published by Wikileaks said Mugabe was rumored to have more than $1 billion of assets in Zimbabwe and overseas but that it had no reliable information.

Social media posts showing his sons Robert Jr and Bellarmine Chatunga with bottles of expensive champagne at a Johannesburg nightclub and reports of Grace’s shopping sprees have offered tantalizing glimpses of the family’s lavish spending.

A legal dispute in 2014 over a $5 million villa in Hong Kong suggested the family had been buying overseas property. The government said it owned the house.

Towards the end of his life, Mugabe complained about the size of his retirement package and said he did not have enough money to pay for the upkeep of the Blue Roof.

Mnangagwa hinted last week that the Mugabe family owned a number of farms in Zimbabwe and that the government would leave them with just one, in line with rules limiting farm ownership.

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WORLD NEWS

Deadly attacks in Britain in recent years

British police on Friday shot dead a man who had strapped a fake bomb to his body and stabbed a number of people in what they said was a terrorism incident in the London Bridge area of the capital.

Following are some deadly attacks in Britain in recent years:

June 19, 2017 - A British man drove a van into Muslim worshippers outside a London mosque, leaving one dead and injuring many more. The man convicted of murder said at his trial he had tried to kill as many as possible.

June 3, 2017 - Three attackers rammed a van into pedestrians on London Bridge, then stabbed people in nearby bars, killing eight and injuring at least 48 before police shot all three dead. Islamic State said its militants were responsible.

May 22, 2017 - A suicide bomber killed 22 children and adults and wounded 59 at a packed concert hall in the English city of Manchester, as crowds began to leave a concert by U.S. singer Ariana Grande.

Police said they believed

Salman Abedi, a 22-year-old Briton born to Libyan parents, had built the bomb himself in the days before the attack.

March 22, 2017 - An attacker stabbed a policeman close to the British parliament in London after a car ploughed into pedestrians on nearby Westminster Bridge.

Six people died, including the assailant and the policeman he stabbed, and at least 20 were injured in what police called a “marauding terrorist attack”.

U.N. to deliver food aid to 4.1 million in Zimbabwe, fears ‘major crisis’

The United Nations said on Tuesday it was procuring food assistance for 4.1 million Zimbabweans, a quarter of the population in a country where shortages are being exacerbated by runaway inflation and climateinduced drought.

Zimbabwe, once the breadbasket of southern Africa, is experiencing its worst economic crisis in a decade, marked by soaring inflation and shortages of food, fuel, medicines and electricity.

“We are very much concerned as the situation continues to deteriorate,” Eddie Rowe, World Food Program (WFP) country director, speaking from Harare, told a Geneva news briefing.

“We believe if we do not reach out and assist these people then the situation would blow up into a major crisis,” he said.

The 240,000 tonnes of food aid, to be procured on international markets, represents a doubling of the WFP’s current program in Zimbabwe.

The agency aims to purchase supplies from Tanzania, in the form of maize grain, as well as from Mexico, and pulses from Kenya and potentially the Black

June 16, 2016 - Armed with a sawn-off rifle and a dagger, a man shot and repeatedly stabbed the lawmaker Jo Cox in a frenzied street attack in her constituency in northern England that stunned Britain a week before the European Union referendum.

May 22, 2013 - Two attackers drove into and knocked down a British soldier as he crossed a street in broad daylight in southeast London, before killing him with a meat cleaver and knives.

France to retaliate if US doubles Champagne, cheese prices

Bernard Roques, a refiner of Societe company, smells a Roquefort cheese as they mature in a cellar in Roquefort, southwestern France

Villager Shupikai Makwavarara inspects her failing maize crop in rural Bindura near Harare, Zimbabwe March 1, 2019 Sea area, Rowe said.

Zimbabwe has only had one year of normal rainfall in the last five and “markets are not functioning”, he said. “There are families that go to bed hungry without a meal a day,” Rowe added.

Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government will scrap its plan to remove grain subsidies next year, a move it says will protect impoverished citizens from rising

food prices, state media reported last week.

Rights groups say at least 17 people were killed and hundreds arrested in January, after security forces cracked down on protests against fuel price increases. Police have banned further protests.

“For a country that used to be breadbasket of southern Africa, the situation is nothing short of tragic,” WFP spokeswoman Bettina Luescher said.

Alabama unveils statue of civil rights icon Rosa Parks

A new statue of civil rights pioneer Rosa Parks was dedicated in Alabama’s capital city on Sunday, the 64th anniversary of her historic refusal to give up her seat on a public bus to a white man.

Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed and Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey pulled back a cloth to unveil the statue before a crowd of about 400 spectators.

The ceremony coincided with the anniversary of Parks’ Dec. 1, 1955 arrest that sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a pivotal part of the civil rights movement.

“This depiction will inspire future generations to make the pilgrimage to our city, to push toward the path of Mary Louise Smith, a plaintiff in the Browder vs. Gayle case that desegregated buses in righteousness, strength, courage Montgomery, stands beside the Rosa Parks statue after its unveiling event in downtown and equality,” Reed, who Montgomery, Ala., Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019 recently became the first African American mayor of Montgomery, took part in the ceremony from the city and the county, to be able to honor Mrs. Parks and said at the ceremony, according Sunday.

Parks was 92 when she died in honor those plaintiffs, and even to al.com. more importantly to honor the

Four granite markers 2005.

Fred Gray, the attorney 40,000 African American men near the statue honor plaintiffs in Browder v. Gayle, the court who defended Parks, the Browder and women who stayed off of the case that determined segregation v. Gayle plaintiffs and many buses for 382 days, it is indeed a on Montgomery buses was other civil rights activists, sat in step in the right direction,” Gray told the Montgomery Advertiser. unconstitutional. One of the the second row at the unveiling.

“For the city officials, plaintiffs, Mary Louise Smith,

France is bristling at a U.S. threat to slap 100% tariffs on French cheeses, Champagne and other products, with the French leader telling President Donald Trump on Tuesday that the move would amount to an attack on all of Europe.

The U.S. Trade Representative proposed the tariffs on $2.4 billion in goods Monday in retaliation for a French tax on global tech giants including Google, Amazon and Facebook.

France’s reaction was swift and robust, with President Emmanuel Macron and his finance minister both warning of a European riposte if the U.S. measure is implemented.

“We’ll see where the discussions lead in the coming weeks, but it will involve a European response,” Macron said in a meeting with Trump on the sidelines of a NATO summit in London. “Because, in effect, it wouldn’t be France that is being sanctioned or attacked but Europe.”

Macron said it’s “not fair” that digital revenues are taxed less than real-life revenues. He said France shouldn’t be singled out for wanting to correct that imbalance with a tax on tech firms.

“My first question is what will happen with the United Kingdom, which adopted the same tax? For Italy, the same tax? Austria, Spain ...,” Macron asked.

“If we’re serious, those countries will have to be treated the same way.”

The U.S. move is likely to increase trade tensions between the U.S. and Europe. Trump said the European Union should “shape up, otherwise things are going to get very tough.”

“I’m not in love with those (tech) companies, but they’re our companies,” Trump said ahead of his meeting with Macron.

French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said the U.S. tariff threat is “simply unacceptable. ... It’s not the behavior we expect from the United States toward one of its main allies.”

The French tech tax, he said, is aimed at “establishing tax justice.” France wants digital companies to pay their fair share of taxes in countries where they make money instead of using tax havens, and is pushing for an international agreement on the issue.

The problem is pronounced in Europe, where a foreign company can pay most of its taxes in the one EU country where it has its regional base - often a small country like Luxembourg or Ireland that tries to attract multinationals with very low corporate taxes.

Le Maire noted that France will reimburse the tax if the U.S. agrees to the international tax plan.

French wine and cheese producers expressed dismay about being caught in the middle of the battle over digital revenues. Cheese producers warned the U.S. measure would hit small businesses hardest.

An industry association for pungent Roquefort cheese, among the targeted products, said the 100% tariffs could wipe out the U.S. market - 300 tons a year - for the blue-veined cheese.

“We’re lucky to have a product known around the world but the reverse side of that is that every time there’s a trade dispute, Roquefort is systematically targeted,” said Jerome Faramond, the association president.

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

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WORLD NEWS

Case against Netanyahu includes billionaire witnesses

Israel’s attorney general on Monday officially submitted his indictment of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on corruption charges, laying out a sweeping case in which over 300 people, including a number of wellknown billionaires, could be called to testify.

But in a break for Netanyahu, the parliament’s legal adviser issued an opinion that could buy the prime minister several months to seek immunity from the Knesset and delay trial. The ruling raised the likelihood the country will be heading to elections for the third time in under a year.

Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit announced on Nov. 21 that he was charging Netanyahu with fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes in three separate cases. It is the first time in Israeli history that a sitting prime minister has been charged with a crime.

On Monday, he formally submitted the indictment to the speaker of parliament.

Netanyahu denies any wrongdoing and has claimed he is the victim of an “attempted coup” by overzealous police investigators and prosecutors.

The charges against Netanyahu include accepting some $200,000 in

gifts such as cigars and champagne from two billionaires, Hollywood-based Israeli movie mogul Arnon Milchan and Australian magnate James Packer.

Netanyahu is also accused of offering to push legislation that would benefit the publisher of a major newspaper in exchange for positive news coverage and promoting regulations worth hundreds of millions of dollars to a friend and telecom magnate in exchange for favorable coverage on the Israeli company’s popular news site.

Mandelblit’s indictment listed 333 potential witnesses, including Milchan and Packer, as well as U.S. casino billionaire Sheldon Adelson, a longtime supporter of Netanyahu, and Oracle Corp. co-founder and chairman Larry Ellison. Cosmetics heir Ron Lauder, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends another longtime Netanyahu associate, the weekly cabinet meeting at his office in Jerusalem, and British-American billionaire Len Israel, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019 Blavatnik, also appear on the list. It was minister, appear. not immediately clear what connection In a Twitter post, Netanyahu Ellison or Blavatnik have to the case. dismissed the large list of witnesses.

Dozens of police officials and “When there is a real case, you don’t need former Netanyahu aides, including 333 witnesses, and when there’s no real several who agreed to turn state witness case, even 333 witnesses won’t help,” he against him, are also listed. Tamir Pardo, said. a former chief of the Mossad spy agency, Israel’s political system has been and several prominent Israeli politicians, in disarray for the last year, in large part both allies and rivals of the prime because of Netanyahu’s legal woes.

Two elections held this year ended in deadlock, with neither Netanyahu nor his main rival, former military chief Benny Gantz, able to secure a parliamentary majority or agree on a power-sharing rotation. If the sides cannot reach a compromise by Dec. 11, parliament will be dissolved and the country would be forced to vote again in March, its third election in less than 12 months.

One of the key sticking points in coalition negotiations has been Netanyahu’s goal of receiving immunity from prosecution. Gantz has ruled out a partnership with a prime minister under indictment.

The indictment has thrown Israel into an unprecedented legal situation. Although Israeli law requires Cabinet ministers and other public officials to resign if charged with a crime, that law does not apply to sitting prime ministers. For this reason, Netanyahu is desperate to remain in office, where he is best positioned to fight the charges.

By submitting his letter to parliament’s speaker, Mandelblit began an official 30-day window for Netanyahu to ask parliament for immunity. With only a minority in favor, Netanyahu’s odds of success appear slim.

Bethlehem set for a Happy Christmas: more rooms, more inns and part of its manger back

As the Christmas decorations go up in Manger Square, Bethlehem is preparing for its best Christmas for two decades, the town’s mayor and hoteliers say.

Five new hotels are in the pipeline and existing ones are expanding.

The town has even extended the opening hours of the Church of the Nativity, revered by Christians worldwide as the place of Jesus’ birth.

But even after three years of relative peace and prosperity, people are still nervous in the small Palestinian town, a few miles south of Jerusalem in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

So dependent has Bethlehem become on tourist income that an upsurge of violence anywhere in the volatile Middle East - not just in its near vicinity - spells financial disaster, with nervous tour groups prone to cancelling months ahead.

Sitting in his municipality office overlooking the newly lit Christmas tree in Manger Square, Mayor Anton Salman said Bethlehem looked set to improve upon the 1.5 million visitors it received

crouch to enter. Once vast, it was reduced in size centuries ago by the Crusaders, then again during the Mamluk and Ottoman Turkish eras to prevent looters driving carts into the church.

For the first time this year the authorities extended the church’s opening hours from sunset to 8 p.m., Salman said, and in 2020 they plan to enlarge the town’s coach station and to address heavy congestion on the narrow road to Manger Square.

The manager of the Alexander Hotel in Bethlehem, Joey Canavati, said his family had nearly given up on the town during the lean years, but now had bookings through to 2021. The hotel plans to nearly double in size from 58 to 110 rooms.

“Business has been booming, we have never seen it like this ever before,” A view shows a mosque minaret and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem in the Israeli-occupied West he said. “(With) the number of tourists Bank December 2, 2019 that have been coming in this year last year. of tourists who are coming to the city,” we have a huge lack of rooms here in Bethlehem.”

“Since three years (ago), things Salman told Reuters.

But he added a familiar note of The main bottleneck, he said, are going up, this year is better than 2018 and 2018 was better than 2017 and was the tiny front door of the Nativity caution: “It’s always about stability.” it is a continuous increase in the number church, through which pilgrims must

Earth’s temperature likely marks hottest decade on record

The past decade is almost Among the report’s findings: ** Average temperatures for the certain to be the hottest on record, weather experts warned on Tuesday, five-year (2015-2019) and 10-year (2010painting a bleak picture of vanishing 2019) periods are almost certain to be sea ice, devastating heatwaves and the highest on record. encroaching seas in a report launched at ** 2019 is on course to be the second- or third-warmest year on record. a climate summit in Spain.

An annual assessment of the ** Sea water is 26 percent more acidic Earth’s climate by the Geneva-based than at the start of the industrial era, World Meteorological Organization degrading marine ecosystems.

(WMO) underscored the stakes at two ** Arctic sea-ice neared record weeks of talks aimed at shoring up lows in September and October, and the 2015 Paris Agreement to avert Antarctica also saw record low ice several times this year. catastrophic global warming. ** Climate change is a key

“Heatwaves and floods which used to be ‘once-in-a-century’ events driver of a recent rise in global hunger are becoming more regular occurrences,” after a decade of steady declines, with WMO Secretary-General Petteri Taalas more than 820 million people suffering from hunger in 2018. said in a statement. ** Weather disasters displaced

“Countries ranging from the Bahamas to Japan to Mozambique millions of people this year and affected suffered the effect of devastating tropical rainfall patterns from India to northern cyclones. Wildfires swept through the Russia and the central United States, and many other regions.

Arctic and Australia,” he said.

The report also noted that surges in sea temperatures known as “marine heatwaves” which devastate underwater life had become more common.

The report said the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere hit a record level of 407.8 parts per million in 2018 and continued to rise in 2019. Opening the climate summit on Monday, United Nations SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres had warned that 400 parts per million had once been considered an “unthinkable” tipping point.

A drumbeat of dire reports from climate science in the past year has fueled environmental activism, prompted some companies to commit to slashing emissions and raised concerns among investors about the stability of asset prices.

Nevertheless, delegates in Madrid are facing an uphill battle to persuade major emitters to embrace the

An iceberg floats in a fjord near Tasiilaq, Greenland, June 16, 201 kind of radical change needed to shift the Earth’s climate system onto a more habitable trajectory.

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DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TECHNOLOGY Putin signs law making Russian apps mandatory on smartphones, computers

Russia’s President Vladimir Putin takes part in a ceremony launching Gazprom’s Power of Siberia gas pipeline to China via a video link in Sochi, Russia December 2, 201

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday signed legislation requiring all smartphones, computers and smart TV sets sold in the country to come pre-installed with Russian software.

The law, which will come into force on July 1 next year, has been met with resistance by some electronics retailers, who say the legislation was adopted without consulting them.

The law has been presented as a way to help Russian IT firms compete with foreign companies and spare consumers from having to download software upon purchasing a new device.

The country’s mobile phone market is dominated by foreign companies including Apple, Samsung and Huawei. The legislation signed by Putin said the government would come up with a list of Russian applications that would need to be installed on the different devices.

Russia has introduced tougher internet laws in recent years, requiring search engines to delete some search results, messaging services to share encryption keys with security services and social networks to store user data on servers in the country.

Trump says China trade deal might have to wait for 2020 election

U.S. President Donald Trump said a trade agreement with China might have to wait until after the U.S. presidential election in November 2020, denting hopes of a quick resolution to a dispute that has weighed on the world economy.

“I have no deadline, no. In some ways, I think I think it’s better to wait until after the election with China,” Trump told reporters in London, where he was due to attend a meeting of NATO leaders.

“In some ways, I like the idea of waiting until after the election for the China deal. But they want to make a deal now, and we’ll see whether or not the deal’s going to be right; it’s got to be right.”

European share prices [.EU], U.S. stock futures [.N] and the Chinese yuan currency CNY= [CNY/] fell on Trump’s comments.

Investors have been hoping that the United States and China can avert an escalation of their trade tensions. U.S. officials have previously said a deal could happen this year, depending on China.

The pan-European STOXX 600 index turned negative as Trump spoke, weighed down by exportheavy mining stocks.

Washington and Beijing have yet to ink a so-called “phase one” agreement announced in October, which had raised hopes of a de-escalation.

Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping had planned

U.S. President Donald Trump meets with China’s President Xi Jinping at the start of their bilateral meeting at the G20 leaders summit in Osaka, Japan, June 29, 2019 to meet and sign the preliminary trade deal at an Asia-Pacific leaders’ summit in Chile in mid-November, but the summit was canceled.

Trump, who had said in September that he did not need a deal before the 2020 election, sought on Tuesday to put pressure on Beijing.

“The China trade deal is dependent on one thing - do I want to make it, because we are doing very well with China right now, and we can do even better with a flick of a pen,” he said. “And China is paying for it, and China is having by far the worst year that they have had in 57 years. So we’ll see what happens.”

China reported its slowest economic growth in 27 years in October as the trade tensions with the United States hit its manufacturing sector.

On Monday, before traveling to London, Trump said U.S. legislation backing protesters in Hong Kong was not making trade negotiations with China easier, but he believed Beijing still wanted a deal with the United States.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross has said that Dec. 15, when a further 15% U.S. tariff on about $156 billion worth of Chinese imports is set to take effect, is a natural deadline for an agreement.

Google co-founders step aside as Pichai takes helm of parent Alphabet

Google co-founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin are stepping aside as leaders of the Internet behemoth they founded 21 years ago, ending an extraordinary run that saw them build one of the world’s most valuable and influential companies.

Trusted lieutenant Sundar Pichai, who has run the core Google search business since 2015, will immediately take the reins as CEO of parent Alphabet Inc.

“While it has been a tremendous privilege to be deeply involved in the day-to-day management of the company for so long, we believe it’s time to assume the role of proud parents — offering advice and love, but not daily nagging!” Page and Brin wrote in a blog bit.ly/2sA9tGb post on Tuesday.

Page, Brin and Pichai have shared an emphasis on developing artificial intelligence software to make web searching faster and more personalized, while expanding the range of information and services available from a simple text query.

But their vision faces unprecedented scrutiny, with governments on five continents demanding better safeguards, an end to what many view as anticompetitive conduct, and more taxes from the world’s largest online advertising company. Thousands of employees have protested, and some have even resigned, over ongoing concern that Google’s famous “don’t be evil” mantra - once embraced by Page and Brin - may be cracking.

Streamlining Alphabet’s unorthodox management structure could help the company better respond

to the challenges and focus on growing president role will not be filled, it said, profits, investors said. describing the changes as long discussed.

“This signals a shift away Page’s voice has been impaired for years from the more fringy efforts ... and because of a chronic condition, but his more towards a company focused on health did not play a role in the decision technology that makes money,” said to step aside, Alphabet said.

Kim Caughey Forrest, chief investment “With Alphabet now wellofficer at Bokeh Capital Partners. established, and Google and the Other

Alphabet, which owns more Bets operating effectively as independent than a dozen companies including self- companies, it’s the natural time to driving car business Waymo and health simplify our management structure,” care software company Verily, was the co-founders said. “We are deeply created in 2015 as part of a restructuring. committed to Google and Alphabet for The Google unit retained control of the long term.” major businesses including video giant The co-founders still control YouTube, the Android smartphone the company through their ownership software and hardware operations, and of preferred shares. As of April, Page held cloud computing.

26.1% of Alphabet’s total voting power,

Page had wanted to focus on Brin 25.25% and Pichai less than 1%. developing the newer businesses, which Alphabet shares rose 0.56% following collectively lose money. He left Google, the after-hours announcement to by far the biggest and most profitable $1,302. part of Alphabet, to Pichai, who in turn delegates a lot of authority to deputies ADVERTISEMENT who manage the various product lines. Brin had stayed on as Alphabet’s ‘MOONSHOTS’ AND REGULATORS president, spending time on robotics, health ventures and other research Page and Brin developed the projects. core Google search technology while

But Page and Brin, once regular they were still graduate students at sights at public events and at Google Stanford, and it quickly proved far headquarters, had become much less superior to competing search engines of visible in recent years. Page’s retreat into the early Internet era. the background drew increasing criticism By the time it went public in from employees and U.S. lawmakers, 2004, Google dominated Web search who demanded answers from him rather and was on its way to becoming a than Pichai about controversial projects household name and the most powerful such as an experimental search app for force in the global advertising business.

Chinese users.

The young co-founders also nurtured

Page and Brin, both 46, remain a free-wheeling, engineering-driven directors of the parent company but will culture that became a model in Silicon cede their respective CEO and president Valley, which is littered with startups titles immediately, Alphabet said. The launched by Google veterans.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai speaks during signing ceremony committing Google to help expand information technology education at El Centro College in Dallas, Texas, U.S. October 3, 2019

Pichai, 47, who has spent 15 years at Google, rose to prominence while leading development of Google’s Chrome browser. He later led product development and engineering across all of Google’s services for a year before gaining the CEO title.

Page and Brin are active in a range of non-Google ventures. Page funded a company attempting to develop flying cars, and Brin at a conference last year discussed a budding interest in cryptocurrency. The Alphabet structure was designed in part to let them pursue new “moonshot” projects.

Investors and regulators, however, were never completely sold.

Alphabet had used the separation between Page’s and Pichai’s roles to defend its limited financial disclosures about YouTube and other large Google businesses when the practice was questioned by U.S. securities regulators in 2017.

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY WORLD NEWS Trump hits U.S. allies with new trade pain in one-day whirlwind

Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro and U.S. President Donald Trump shake hands during a bilateral meeting at the G20 leaders summit in Osaka, Japan, June 28, 2019

President Donald Trump released a clutch of protectionist trade actions on Monday aimed at long-time U.S. allies, including some countries that have been close to the Trump administration.

The president started by announcing tariffs on steel from Brazil and Argentina in a tweet, citing U.S. farmers who he said were being hurt by a “massive devaluation” of those countries’ currencies.

Brazil and Argentina are both big exporters of agricultural products. (Read story here)

Chinese companies have slashed their purchases of U.S. farm goods since the United States started its trade war with China 17 months ago. Both Brazil and Argentina have been trying to strengthen their currencies, despite Trump’s claim.

An Argentinian minister called the tariffs “unexpected.” Brazil’s main steel lobby said it was “perplexed.” The move could drive Brazil to tighter trade ties with China, analysts said.

Then the United States Trade Representative said it would review hiking tariffs on European Union products and adding new ones, because of what it called “lack of progress” in resolving a dispute over aircraft subsidies. (Read story here)

The USTR said a decision by the World Trade Organization on Monday affirmed the U.S. position that European subsidies to planemaker Airbus continue to harm the U.S. aerospace industry.

It did not provide specifics on what tariffs it might hike over the long-running dispute.

Finally, after the U.S. markets closed, the USTR said it planned to increase taxes on $2.4 billion in French products including Champagne and handbags by 100%, after determining that France’s new digital services tax would harm U.S. companies like Alphabet Inc’s Google (GOOGL.O) and Apple Inc (AAPL.O).

The USTR said the government was also exploring whether to open similar investigations into the digital services taxes of Austria, Italy and Turkey.

Kelano Howell Location: 83c Leeside Avenue, Long Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking a Nanny Hours: 8:30 am - 5 pm Working Days Monday - Saturday Duties Baby Sit Children Must be able to assist with housekeeping duties Must be honest and trustworthy Salary $6.25 per hour Contact - 344-0052 This position is New Interest Turks and Caicos Islander applicants must send a copy of resume to Labour Board

Mercedes-Benz owner Daimler to cut 10,000 jobs worldwide

Daimler, the German carmaker that owns Mercedes-Benz, has said it will shed at least 10,000 jobs worldwide as it seeks to fund the switch to electric cars.

Daimler personnel chief Wilfried Porth told journalists the number of jobs lost would be “in the five figures”.

The move comes days after rival Audi said it would cut 9,500 of its 61,000 jobs in Germany for similar reasons.

Daimler said the car industry was going through “the biggest transformation in its history”.

“The development towards CO2-neutral mobility requires large investments, which

is why Daimler announced in the middle of November that it would launch a programme to increase competitiveness, innovation and investment strength,” the firm said.

“Part of this programme is to reduce staff costs by around €1.4bn by the end of 2022 and, among other things, to reduce the number of management positions worldwide by 10%.”

Electric cars

Daimler, which has a global workforce of nearly 300,000 and factories in 17 countries, said it would reduce costs and employment “in a socially responsible manner”, including the use of “natural fluctuation”.

“In addition, the

possibilities for part-time retirement will be expanded and a severance programme will be offered in Germany in order to reduce jobs in the administration,” it added.

Daimler said its plans had been agreed with the firm’s works council, which includes union representation.

German carmakers have been slow to adapt to new technological trends, including self-driving cars and electric vehicles.

At the same time, they have been suffering falling demand in China, while the trade war between Washington and Bejing has also dented growth.

Black Friday shoppers stay away from stores, make $7 billion-plus splurge online

U.S. shoppers made more purchases online on Black Friday than in the mall - hurting traffic and sales at brick-and-mortar stores, according to data that offered a glimpse into what is still one of the busiest shopping days of the year.

For the first time in several years, however, store traffic on Thanksgiving evening grew - indicating a shift in when consumers are leaving their homes to shop. It is also a sign of how Thursday evening store openings have continued to hurt what has traditionally been a day that kicked off the U.S. holiday season.

The importance on the shopping calendar of Black Friday, or the day after the U.S. Thanksgiving Day holiday, has waned in recent years. This is due to the choice by many retailers to open their stores on Thursday evening, as well as to early holiday promotions and year-round discounts. However, it is increasingly turning into a day when shoppers do not necessarily flock to stores but spend heavily online.

Also, for most retail chains, Black Friday store traffic and sales data is not necessarily grim as consumers continue to spend, consultants said. Winning the transaction, whether online or in-store, has now become more important for retailers than where it occurs.

Top brick-and-mortar retailers like Walmart Inc (WMT.N), Target Corp (TGT.N) and Best Buy (BBY.N) have continued to spend billions of dollars trying to expand their e-commerce operations to capture that growing online revenue.

Also, spending patterns over the weekend are not as indicative of the entire holiday shopping season as they were a few

People walk through the King of Prussia mall, one of the largest retail malls in the U.S., on Black Friday years ago, with purchases spread over November and December.

Online sales rose more than 19.6%, reaching $7.4 billion on Black Friday, slightly shy of estimates of $7.6 billion, according to data from Adobe Analytics, which tracks transactions at 80 of the top 100 U.S. retailers. On Thanksgiving, it estimated sales grew 14.5% to $4.2 billion.

Numbers from ShopperTrak, which is part of retail data firm Sensormatic Solutions, showed that visits to stores fell a combined 3% during Thanksgiving and Black Friday compared with the same days in 2018.

Shopper traffic on Thanksgiving evening increased by 2.3%year-over-year but was dragged down by Black Friday, which fell 6.2% from a year ago.

Brian Field, senior director of global retail consulting for ShopperTrak, said the traditional pattern of shoppers visiting stores has been disrupted not only by online shopping but by offerings

like “buy online and pick up in store,” a growing category, which is not included in store traffic count on Black Friday.

“What all of this really boils down to is the customer journey has changed, now it can start anywhere online, in-store and end anywhere ... and it is about making sure the customer makes the purchase and stays loyal to the brands more than where it happens,” he said.

Preliminary data from analytics firm RetailNext showed net sales at brick-and-mortar stores on Black Friday fell 1.6%, which the firm said is slower than in previous years. No data was yet available for actual spending in stores.

The National Retail Federation had forecast U.S. holiday retail sales over the two months in 2019 will increase between 3.8% and 4.2% from a year ago, for a total of $727.9 billion to $730.7 billion. That compares with an average annual increase of 3.7% over the past five years.

Daily Mail owner buys i newspaper for £50m

The owner of the Daily Mail, In 2018, the i reported an operating DMGT, has bought the i newspaper profit of £11m from £34m in sales.

The deal means that the paper and website for £49.6m from JPI Media.

DMGT chairman Lord will have its fourth owner in as many Rothermere said the paper was “a years. highly respected publication with a The sale was attacked by loyal and engaged readership”.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who

“We are committed to said in a tweet that two billionaires preserving its distinctive, high-quality now owned half the UK’s top 10 daily and politically independent editorial newspapers. style.”

‘Time-poor’ readers

The Competition and Markets The i was launched in 2010 Authority will have to approve the deal. as a sister paper to the Independent. It

sells for 65p on weekdays and £1.20 on Saturdays.

When it first hit the newsstands, executives at the company said it was aimed at “timepoor newspaper readers”, especially commuters, who lacked the time to read a quality newspaper on a regular basis.

At its launch, it shared the same editorial staff as its sister paper and was seen as a way of extending the Independent’s brand to a new market.

But in 2016, the Independent closed its print edition and the i was sold for £24m to Johnston Press.

Despite this, links to the paper’s former parent remained, with the i continuing to provide a print home for some of the Independent’s now otherwise digital-only content.

Changing hands

In November 2018, the i changed hands again after Johnston Press was bought out of administration

by JPI Media.

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

• To develop effective working relationships with key agencies, e.g.

Technical Director Turks & Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) is seeking one experienced Football Technical Director to oversee and be responsible for the development of the sport of football in the Turks and Caicos Islands with the objective of increasing the number of participants as well as raising the quality, and technical and tactical ability of the players at all levels ranging from Grassroots to the Youth and Senior National Teams. The individual must be the holder of at least a Confederation or Member Association “A” License or its equivalent.

Responsibilities: Strategic Planning • To help devise, develop, and implement TCIFA development plans within the Turks and Caicos Islands.

• To be responsible for the management of the Technical Department budget and provide quarterly reports on the budget.

• To oversee and supervise the Coaches and Staff within the Technical Department.

• Produce annual key objectives and performance indicators in relation to football development and submit quarterly reports.

Program Management • To promote and develop Grassroots and Youth Football in the Turks and Caicos Islands • To create, promote and develop a Schools Football Program and establish small sided football leagues • To establish a comprehensive club development program for youth, women’s and men’s football.

• To manage and develop a comprehensive season of youth festivals, tournaments and competitions • To assist with the development and growth of Beach Soccer and Futsal • To create opportunities for football scholarships for the elite male and female players within the TCIFA programs • To develop a program of coaching education, effective football club administration, and medical education courses to support football coaches.

• Develop and implement a volunteer development strategy within the TCI. • Have an understanding of equity and social inclusion and where appropriate support delivery of specific projects.

• To assist with the formation of the day to day running of women’s and men’s football leagues and tournaments.

- TCI Government - Ministry of Education - Schools - Sports Commission - TCI Olympic Committee - Caribbean Football Union, CONCACAF and FIFA - Other TCI sports organizations • To prepare written reports on matters relating to football development.

• To assist with the development of referees at all levels • To coach within the various program at the TCIFA Working Conditions & Physical Requirements The job is physically demanding and will require the successful candidate to work outdoors in conducting, overseeing and observing coaching sessions in varying weather conditions. As such the successful candidate must have the ability to stand for extended periods of time, see and read a computer screen and printed material with or without vision aids; hear and understand speech at normal levels.

Salary: Remuneration will be between $3000 - $4500 per month, dependent upon experience Please direct all applications to: Oliver A. Smith The General Secretary The Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association Venetian Road Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Ph: 1 649 333 4614 Email: olivertcifa@gmail.com The above-named position is currently held by a work permit holder.

TCIFA invites and encourages all prospective applicants who are Turks & Caicos Islanders to send their application to the Immigration Board & Labor Commissions.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

Deadline: December 12th, 2019

BUTTERFIELD GOLD GROUP OF COMPANIES POSITIONS AVAILABLE New positions for BCCM (Butterfield Concrete & Construction Materials) Coral Quarry Four (4) Truck drivers

Delivering raw/building materials Inspect vehicles for mechanical items and safety issues and perform preventative maintenance.

Must have clean drivers licence and Police Record with have at least ten years’ experience.

Butterfield Gold One (1) Gardener Looking for an experienced gardener to plant and maintain the owner’s grounds.

Weeding and spraying plants Salary: $400.00 per week One (1) Domestic worker General cleaning the Town Center mall windows and offices Wages: $6.50 per hour

From $12.00 per hour according to experience

One (1) Driver/Pump Operator Concrete Pump Operators use pumps to pour ready-mix concrete on construction sites.

Maintaining tools and truck Driving trucks Assembling concrete pumps Collaborating with other workers Workers need to demonstrate stamina Physical strength Good driving skills Those interested in a Concrete Pump Operators should make display of a high school diploma or the equivalent in their resumes.

Must have clean drivers licence and Police Record with have at least ten years’ experience with Pump Equipment.

From $15.00 per hour

South Dock Road Providenciales

Budget Rent a Car One (1) Labourer

Cleaning vehicles

Pickup and drop off guest to airport

Must be able to read and speak English well.

Must have a clean drivers licence.

Wages $6.50 per hour Town Centre, 23 Parade Ave, Providenciales All above positions are currently held by Work permit Holders Submit applications to by December 10, 2019 to: Butterfield Gold Ltd., Human Resource Department Town Center Mall Providenciales Tel: 649-946-4211 Labour Commissioner, Labour Department Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 43

BUTLER TRAINER(*)

BUTLER As a Butler for The Shore Club Resort, you will be responsible for ensuring butler service provided for guests is delivered promptly, courteously and expertly in accordance with all resort and brand standards. The Butler’s primary goal is to create an ambiance of superior luxury by anticipating each individual guest’s needs. This is accomplished through moments of surprise and delight that our guest would never have experienced before. Also ensure guest familiarities to frequent guests visiting the hotel.

Roles and Responsibilities: •Minimum of 3 years’ experience in food and beverage fine dining as a personal Butler •Must possess excellent communication skills, both verbal and written •Strong knowledge of a variety of cuisines and wines/beverages •Must possess local knowledge in order to respond to all inquiries from guest, such as restaurants information •Must possess basic computational ability •Must possess basic computer skills •Must be able to follow through all the guest requests and communicate them to the appropriate departments and management in an efficient manner •Must be able to stand and exert well-paced mobility for up to 8 hours in length •Must be able to exert well-paced, ability to reach other departments and locations in a timely manner •Must be able to exert well-paced ability in limited space •Must be able to bend, stoop, squat and stretch to fulfill cleaning tasks.

•Must be able to bend and squat and lift up to 25 lbs •Must be able to push and pull equipment weighing up to 75 lbs •Requires grasping, writing, standing, sitting, walking, walking, repetitive motions.

•Bending, climbing, listening and hearing ability and visual acuity.

•Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Starting salary at $8.00- $9.00 per hour not including service charge.

As a Butler Trainer for The Shore Club Resort, you will be responsible for providing the highest of penthouse service to our guest. The Butler Trainer’s primary goal is to ensure all Butlers are trained in line with core standards within The Shore Club. You will also be responsible for ensuring that the Team of Butlers create an ambiance of superior luxury by anticipating each individual guess’s needs. This is accomplished through moments of surprise and delight that our guest would never have experience before.

Roles and Responsibilities: •Minimum of 5 years’ experience in food and beverage fine dining as a personal Butler/Butler Trainer.

•Must possess excellent communication skills, both verbal and written •Develop, implement, coordinate and present butler and personal concierges training programs in accordance with The Shore Club standards and requirements •Track, audit and maintain individual training records for all staff at Front Office.

•Conduct regular meetings with Front Office and Hotel Manager regarding training progress for staff.

•Must possess basic computational ability.

•Must possess basic computer skills.

•Must be able to follow through all the guest requests and communicate them to the appropriate departments and management in an efficient manner.

•Must have attention to details second to none ability, superior interpersonal skills and desire to provide exceptional service to our guest.

•Must be able and willing to work all days and shifts Starting salary at $27,500.00 per annum not including service charge.

POSITIONS MARKED WITH (*) ARE CURRENTLY HELD BY A WORK PERMIT HOLDER. Interested applicants should apply to The Shore Club,Human Resources Department, Monday through Friday, and bring along an updated resume, or by emailing your resume Attention to Danitra Clare or Karresa Gardiner, Asst.Human Resource Managers at careers@theshoreclubtc.com, no later than end of day Friday December 20th, 2019.Resumes canalso be submitted to the Labour Department directly. The Shore Club HR Office can be contacted at (649)-339-8000

Funtastic Tours, Funtastic Bus Tours and Funtastic Water Sports Company Limited areseeking to fill the following posts: Assistant Manager / Gateway and Shorex Tour Guides Life Guards Dispatchers Sales Persons Mechanics&Assistant Mechanics Automotive Electricians&Assistant Automotive Electricians Boat Captains Deckhands Bus Drivers with Public Service Licenses Maintenance Officers / Labourers Maids / Cleaners All candidates must have a minimum of at least five (5) years experience in their specialist area in the tourism industry. o Must have a valid driver’s license with a minimum of five (5) years driving experience. Bus Drivers must have a Public Service License. o Tour Guides must have sufficient knowledge to troubleshoot vehicles on tours. o Boat Captains and Tour Guides in the aqua field must have a Captain’s License, CPR and PADI certification or equivalent. Persons must be well versed in the natural habitat of various sea creatures. o Deckhands are responsible for ensuring safety on the boat and in cleaning and maintaining the boat. o Mechanics must be well versed in their specialized areas of repairing All-Terrain Vehicles, Electric Vehicles, Boats and Buses. Mechanics in their specialist field must have five (5) years experience. Assistant Mechanics must have (3) years experience in their specialized field. The company has a fleet of over seventy vehicles and climbing and requires several persons in the various mechanical areas. o Sales persons must have at least five (5) years experience handling online and direct sales. o Dispatchers must be able to effectively communicate with Shorex and persons of varying nationalities as well as produce sales reports and projections. o Maintenance Officers / Labourers must be able to maintain various trails, clean the Workshop and assist the Tour Guides where necessary. o Sales persons must have a positive and disciplined attitude towards work in a customer service environment. o Proven and unblemished employment record. o Have a good command of English and excellent communication skills. o Must be able to work flexible hours and extended overtime schedules, including weekends and public holidays to meet the demands of the industry. o Able to undergo intensive training to meet the requirements of the industry.

Remuneration package would be discussed at the interview process. All applicants should submit their resumes to Funtastic Tours Company Ltd atfuntastic.tours@ yahoo.com. All applicants are required to submit a Police Record, three reference (3) letters (one from their last employer) and undergo a medical once successful at the interview process. Belongers will be given first preference.

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TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

LOCAL SPORTS

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 45

The Turks Head Brewery and TCIBF 3on3 Basketball Tournament Heats Up the Bight

The heat was on Saturday,at the Turks Head Brewery and Turks and Caicos Island Basketball Federation 3on3 Basketball Tournament.Basketball players from around the island gathered at The Bight court for a twodaytournament. The court was ablazed with excitement as 10 teams competed for the championship title, cash prize, and tournament rings.

Teamsplayed a round robin, giving them a chance to compete against each team. The top 6 teams were selected to compete in the finals.

The 6 top scoring teams were: The Dominicans, The Knights, the HAB Sonics, The Bight, the South Caicos Young Guns, and City Kickers.

It was a showdown of skill and sportsmanship as the lower seeded teams- City Kickers, South Caicos Young Guns, HAB Sonics, and The Bight competed for two spots in the semifinals. HAB Sonics advanced to the next round thanks to the team effort of Jahmeel Damon, Alvardo Parker and Darado Fulford. The Bight team also advanced onward with a succession of 3pt line shots from point guard Zack Rigby and the quick footwork and defensive rebounds of Kadeen Davis, Dekash Capron, and Lathario Parker.

The match up for the semi- team to make 2 points in an overtime finals featured a heated game between game wins. Both teams increased the the HAB Sonics and top seeded team pressure however, the Knights drew The Knights. The Knights made two fouls, giving them the edge they formidable opponents with talented needed to win the game and take home shootersKadis Simmons, Clifton Jean, the championship.

Dondre Taylor, and Melvin Elsie raining The tournament also featured buckets on their competition. Tension a 3pt shoot out. A member from each was high as the game came down to team showed their skills on the 3pt line. the last 14 seconds of the game with a The Knights Clifton Jean took home tie score. The Knights went on to beat the winning $500 cash and bragging the HAB Sonics in a blazing overtime rights. Numerous players remarked on game.At the other end of the court The their appreciation for the tournament.

Bight fought a tight battle but couldn’t Jakie Been said, “I’m glad I joined this hold down 6’6’’ centre Charlton Stubbs tournament. We need events like this of the Dominicans. Team mates Jakie more often. I can’t wait for the next Been, Hoovan Cabral, and Hendy Diaz one.” rotated a tight strategy of defence and The organizers for the event, offense, keeping The Bight players on TCIBF Vice President Curtis Ford said, their toes.The semi-final game between “the goal of the federation is to influence the two ended with the Dominicans the lives of these young men through advancing to compete against the basketball. If we provide ways for them Knights. to exert their energy in a positive way, it

The court was alight with will impact their future and the state of anticipation of the final game. The crowd our community.” The TCIBF is expected fervour increased as they stood to their to have an active 2020 season as they feet roaring with excitement after each restart the popular Provo Basketball play between the Dominicans and the League tournament. President of the Knights. This was the most action pack TCIBF, Sydwell Glasgow says, “the 3 10 min game of the series. The intense on 3 tournament is just a start. We will competition went into overtime. Rules have more activities in 2020 including of the 3 on 3 tournament states the first another edition of this tournament for

the under 18 years old players.We want to take this to each island, from there create a national team that can play in international games.”

Manager for Turks Head Brewery, Dave Bozzer says,“As a corporate sponsor, these are the type of activities we like to get involved in. There is so much skills and talents in the country and we want to create opportunities for them to be displayed.”

3 on 3 basketball is the largest urban sport in the United States. It became more standardised in the late 1980s through numerous tournaments. In the 1990’s the game developed international recognition through several tournaments including the Adidas streetball competition.

Currently, the games format is structured and governed by the International Basketball Federation (also known as FIBA). 3 on 3 basketball will take a spotlight at the next summer Olympics, where it will be premier for the first time at the international sporting event.

For additional information about the event contact: Chandra Craigg or Lee Ingham- Outside the Box Advertising 432-0103/432-5966 outsidetheboxtci@gmail.com

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WORLD

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

SPORTS

Messi wins record sixth men’s Ballon d’Or award

Barcelona’s Lionel Messi with the Ballon d’Or award

Argentina’s Barcelona lifted the coveted trophy forward Lionel Messi claimed in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 the men’s Ballon d’Or award for and 2015, beat Liverpool’s a record sixth time on Monday. Champions League winner

The 32-year-old, who Virgil van Dijk in a vote of

international journalists.

Messi won Spain’s Liga title with Barca this year and led Argentina to third place at the Copa America in July.

Brady on Patriots’ scattershot offense: ‘We’re not 2-10’

New England is going to need to find some points to beat the Kansas City Chiefs next weekend, but quarterback Tom Brady would like to hush the panic over the Patriots’ scattershot offense.

A loss to the Houston Texans on Sunday night dropped the Patriots to 10-2.

“We’re not 2-10, we’re 102,” Brady said in a radio interview Monday with WEEI in Boston.

“I know there are very high expectations, as there are for us. I think the expectations for our team are often at a very, very, very high level. I understand that.

But at the same time I think there are realistic expectations with our circumstances and incorporating different elements and players and injuries.

“We’re just trying to do the best we can do. We have our whole season ahead of us, and we have to learn from the things we did last night and try to go out there and get a really tough win against KC and see if we can get back to winning.”

Without Rob Gronkowski (retirement) and having released Josh Gordon following Antonio Brown’s brief stint with the team, the Patriots receiver corps has been a work in progress. Rookie N’Keal Harry is being pushed

into a prominent role of late, but spent the first two months of the season on injured reserve. Julian Edelman and Phillip Dorsett have been Brady’s primary receivers this season. Mohamed Sanu, acquired via trade from the Atlanta Falcons, hasn’t been fully healthy since the deal in October.

“A quarterback’s responsibility is to try to lead and motivate. We’re often the voice of a lot of situations, because first we’re calling the plays in the huddle.

And we have a lot of information from the coaches and coordinators on what we’re trying to do. We’re trying to motivate people and get people to play their best,” Brady said.

Brady has 18 touchdowns and six interceptions in 2019. But his passer rating of 88.2 is well off of his career mark of 97.1. He completed only 51.1 percent of his passes against the Texans and was sacked three times, with an interception — on a slant intended for Harry — that resulted in a Houston touchdown. Brady said after the game the Patriots “didn’t deserve” the win.

“Guys are trying. I have no problem (with effort),” Brady said.

“It’s not like we haven’t dealt with losses before,” he said in the radio interview. “I think a

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McGregor set for UFC return in January

UFC lightweight champion Conor McGregor of Ireland poses on the scale during his official weigh-in at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S. on August 25, 2017

Former two-weight UFC champion Conor McGregor is set to return to the octagon on Jan. 18 where he will take on veteran American Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone in a welterweight bout at UFC 246, promotion boss Dana White has told ESPN.

“Conor has signed and ‘Cowboy’ is ready to go,” the UFC president said, giving the green light for the return of one of MMA’s most bankable stars.

Irishman McGregor, who has 21 professional wins and four losses in MMA and a single defeat to Floyd Mayweather on his professional boxing record, has not fought since losing his lightweight title to Khabib Nurmagomedov via submission in October 2018.

The 31-year-old has previously fought twice at 170 pounds against Nate Diaz, losing the first fight to a second-round submission but winning an epic rematch on points.

Since losing to Nurmagomedov, McGregor has had several brushes with the law, and, in a court hearing on Nov. 1, pleaded guilty to assaulting a man in a pub in Dublin earlier in the year.

Hamilton not ruling out a Ferrari switch

New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) in a game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field lot of it is about mental toughness and realizing that when you don’t play well, you’re not supposed to win. You’re not supposed to win when you put less than your best out there. Sometimes you get away with it. Most of the times you don’t.

I don’t think anyone is feeling sorry for us. We’re not feeling sorry for us. We’re going to try to have a great week of preparation and see if we can get back to winning.”

The Patriots host the Chiefs (8-4) on Sunday in a rematch of last season’s AFC championship game.

Six times world champion Lewis Hamilton did not deny meeting Ferrari chairman John Elkann when asked on Sunday about speculation linking the Mercedes driver with a move to the Italian team in 2021.

T h e 34-year-old Briton Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton celebrates with will be out of a trophy after winning the race contract at the end of next season.

The next deal will probably be Hamilton’s last in Formula One and he has said he is considering options outside of Mercedes, where team principal Toto Wolff’s future is also up in the air.

“What happens behind closed doors is always private with whoever it is you end up sitting with,” Hamilton said in response to a question about Italian media reports that he had twice met Elkann.

“For many, many years I’ve never, ever sat down and considered other options because we’ve been just driving straight ahead into the path that we’ve been on...,” added the Briton after winning the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

“I know Toto is also looking at his options in terms of his future. So I’m waiting to see what he’s doing with that.”

Hamilton joined Mercedes in 2013 as a onetime champion, replacing seven times title-holder Michael Schumacher, and with the British-based team still battling in the midfield.

He now has six titles and 84 wins, seven shy of Schumacher’s all-time record of 91, and has averaged 10 a year since 2014.

DECEMBER 6TH, 2019 – DECEMBER 13TH, 2019

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

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WORLD SPORTS Tokyo 2020 National Stadium officially finished

Olympic rings are displayed in front of the construction site of the New National Stadium

Tokyo’s National Stadium, set to be the centerpiece of next year’s Olympic Games, was officially finished on Saturday and handed over to its owner and operator, the Japan Sport Council.

Construction on the 60,000 capacity stadium was finished earlier this month but Saturday marked the official completion date and a landmark moment for organizers eight months out from the start of the Games.

It will be officially unveiled on Dec. 21, with the Emperor’s Cup soccer final being the first sporting event to be held there on New Year’s Day.

“We are very pleased that construction of the stadium – a key symbol of the Tokyo 2020 Games – has now been completed; it makes us realize just how close we are getting to the start of the Games,” said Tokyo 2020 CEO Toshiro Muto in a statement on Saturday.

“We are so looking forward to seeing athletes from all over the world marching into the new stadium at the Opening Ceremony... when the eyes of the world will be on this iconic symbol of the Tokyo 2020 Games.”

Completed at a cost of more than $1.25 billion, the stadium, which can accommodate 60,000, will also host the athletics and soccer events during the Games.

Construction started in December 2016, about 14 months later than planned, after the original design was scrapped because of a public outcry over spiraling costs.

The delay meant the stadium could not host matches of the Rugby World Cup, as originally planned.

After several post-Games renovations due to end late in 2022, the stadium will host sporting and cultural events for years to come.

Cardinals’ Shaw suspended for betting on games Arizona Cardinals defensive back Josh Shaw has been suspended until at least the end of the 2020 season for betting on National Football League games, the league said on Friday.

The NFL said in a statement an investigation uncovered no evidence indicating any inside information was used or that any game was compromised in any way.

“The continued success of the NFL depends directly on each of us doing everything necessary to safeguard the integrity of the game and the reputations of all who participate in the league,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in a statement.

“At the core of this responsibility is the longstanding principle that betting on NFL games, or on any element of a game, puts at risk the integrity of the game, damages public

Arizona Cardinals defensive back Josh Shaw (27) does tackling drills with a roll tackle ring during minicamp at the teams Tempe training facility confidence in the NFL, and is forbidden under all circumstances.

“If you work in the NFL in any capacity, you may not bet on NFL football.”

The Cardinals in an email to Reuters said they will not have anything to say beyond the

commissioner’s statement.

A fourth-round pick of the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2015 draft, Shaw is currently on seasonending injury reserve.

He can petition for reinstatement on Feb. 15, 2021.

One move that reveals how badly Golden State Warriors are struggling without Steph Curry

For the past five seasons, the Golden State Warriors have been near the top of the basketball world.

Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson have changed the way basketball is played, Steve Kerr has solidified his coaching credentials, and the franchise grew into a modern dynasty. This season, however, has been quite a bit different.

After losing almost all of their star power to free agency and injury, the Warriors are sitting at the bottom of the NBA standings.

One move, however, reveals how far the mighty have fallen, at least temporarily.

While the Golden State Warriors assembled a modern dynasty, everything started changing after their NBA Finals defeat at the hands of the Toronto Raptors. Kevin Durant left headed east and joined the Brooklyn Nets; Andre Iguodala moved to Memphis, and Shaun Livingston retired.

When the season began, the Warriors were still playing without Klay Thompson, who tore his ACL against Toronto. Things quickly got worse, however, as Steph Curry broke his hand. Draymond Green has also been in and out of the lineup, as the forward battles a

heel issue.

That reality has left the Warriors severely undermanned in a competitive Western Conference; while D’Angelo Russell and Eric Paschall are doing their best to keep the club afloat, they simply don’t have enough firepower. Golden State currently has the worst record in basketball, but that’s not the biggest indignation they’ve suffered this year.

NBA players, like all other professional athletes, have a bit of an ego. Everyone has to believe in their own abilities; no athlete wants to feel like their talents are underappreciated and unseen.

Unfortunately for the Golden State Warriors, that’s going to become their reality.

The NBA recently decided to remove two of the Warriors’ games from the nationally televised lineup. While Golden State’s games with the Utah Jazz on December 13 and the Portland Trail Blazers on December 18 were slated to air on ESPN, those games have been replaced. The Los Angeles Clippers and Minnesota Timberwolves will fill the former spot, while the Boston Celtics will play the Dallas Mavericks in the latter.

While the move will probably seem like a bit of a slap in the Warriors’ collective face, it makes sense; not too many fans want to tune in to watch Alec Burks and Glenn Robinson. When you’re the best team in the NBA, everyone wants to watch your games. When you’re the worst team in the league, fans are a bit less receptive.

While being bumped off of national TV may rub salt in the Golden State Warriors’ wounds, the franchise doesn’t have that much to feel bad about. This season is painful, but it’s also an aberration.

If anything, being this bad could be a blessing in disguise.

Playing without Kevin Durant, Andre Iguodala, and Klay Thompson was always going to be painful, but losing Steph Curry gave the Warriors an excuse to write this season off.

Rather than fighting uphill for a shot at the title, the club can use the 2019-20 campaign to bed some new players into the lineup. Next season, when Curry and Thompson are back to full strength, they’ll know what to expect from guys like Eric Paschall; the Warriors might even have a number one draft pick to add to the mix.

Six rookie QBs have already earned wins this season

While Tom Brady and Drew Brees pursue Peyton Manning, Devlin Hodges is chasing Ed Rubbert.

Say what? ` Manning’s record of 539 touchdown passes could be broken by both Brady and Brees during the final month of the regular season. Brady has thrown 535 TD passes and Brees has 532.

As for Hodges, he only has three TD passes in two games for the Pittsburgh Steelers. But Hodges became the first undrafted rookie quarterback to win his first two career starts since Rubbert in 1987.

Rubbert won his three starts with the Washington Redskins as a replacement player during a strike. He never played in the NFL after it ended.

Hodges is one of six rookie quarterbacks to win games this season, joining Arizona’s Kyler Murray, Denver’s Drew Lock, Washington’s Dwayne

Haskins, the Giants’ Daniel Jones and Jacksonville’s Gardner Minshew.

That group of six represents the most in a non-strike season in league history. Seven rookie quarterbacks won games in 1987. Detroit’s David Blough tries to make it seven this season when the Lions play Minnesota on Sunday.

DUAL THREATS

Sunday’s game between the Ravens and Buffalo Bills will feature the most combined rushing yards (1,407) by starting quarterbacks than any contest in league history. Jackson has 977 and Josh Allen has 430.

CHASING MIKE

Lamar Jackson is 23 rushing yards away from becoming the second quarterback in NFL history with a 1,000yard rushing season, and he needs 63 yards to break Michael Vick’s singleseason record for quarterbacks. Vick had 1,039 in 2006. Jackson already has the record for most 100-yard games in a season with four. Jackson is a major part of Baltimore’s success on the ground.

The Ravens lead the league in rushing with 2,494 yards this season.

FITZMAGIC

Ryan Fitzpatrick led the Dolphins to five straight touchdown drives in a 37-31 upset over Philadelphia.

The Eagles hadn’t allowed more than 225 yards passing in five straight games and held opponents to 17 points or less in four in a row until running into Fitzpatrick.

THE LITTLE TRACTOR

Titans running back Derrick

El novato quarterback de los Steelers Devlin Hodges celebra el triunfo de Pittsburgh del domingo ante los Browns de Cleveland Henry is the fifth player in league history to record at least 145 yards rushing and a TD rushing in three consecutive games, joining Pro Football Hall of Famers Jim Brown (1958), Eric Dickerson (1984) and O.J. Simpson (1976), and Adrian Peterson (2012).

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