VOLUME 16 ISSUE 24 by The SUN Newspaper

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

Website: www.suntci.com

VOLUME 16 - NO. 24

Email: sun@suntci.com

Tel: (649) 348-6838

$1.00

Fax: (649) 941-3281

www.facebook.com/tcisun

HOTELS GETTING READY TO REOPEN by Hayden Boyce Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

otels in the Turks and Caicos Islands are pleased that the country’s borders are reopening on July 22nd and they are now getting ready to open their doors on July 6th. Stacy Cox, Chief Executive Officer of the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA), told The SUN: “We are pleased to have a date to which we can work with in an effort to salvage our tourism industry through intense marketing initiatives, individually and with our Tourist Board. The date also provides hope of normalcy for our industry team and potential visitors to the Turks and Caicos Islands, in a COVID19 environment, while we all continue to adhere to the health protocols established by our Ministry of Health. Management, Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa, said: “The Premier’s announcement of the July 22 reopening of borders is noted as it signals a likely return of tourism for the Turk and Caicos Islands. Our company recently introduced its Platinum Protocols of Cleanliness to guarantee cleanliness standards and heightened health and safety measures. All Beaches team members are currently undergoing mandatory training sessions to ensure that everyone is compliant with the new operational and hygiene procedures. This will ensure all our stakeholders - team members, suppliers and guests - visiting our resort will do so with the utmost confidence.” Karen Whitt, of The Hartling Group, which owns and operates The Shore Club, The Palms and The Sands, told The SUN that although they remain “cautiously optimistic” about the opening in July, it is difficult to predict occupancies at this stage. “There are still so many variables that can impact those results such as travel restrictions, airlift to the island; and knowing the time of year we need to keep our expectations realistic. Generally, we are seeing good interest and communications from our travel partners and consumers. Our sales and marketing teams are busy reaching out to our travel partners and we have seen a good

Some of the protesters in Downtown, Providenciales.

Locals protest for stimulus package and end to gun violence Several persons staged a peaceful protest in Downtown, Providenciales, on Friday June 12th against gun violence and demanding their stimulus package funds. One of the persons, Hynetta Forbes told The SUN, “We are protesting here for two reasons and two reasons only. It’s not political and it has nothing to do with politics. It is about the stimulus. For those who are qualified, we feel that we need urgent payouts. People are hurting

response of positive international media messaging through our public relations efforts,” Whitt said. She added: “Our properties were created to bring people together in a relaxed, luxury environment and the human desire to connect is very real. We are most excited that our employees will once again have an opportunity to reengage with guests and owners, and do what they do best. We will continue to provide those bespoke experiences that our guests expect from us and we will focus on the magical moments associated with traveling to a beach destination. However, consumer expectations have changed, and we must do this safely. While we are awaiting final directions from the government on what entry requirements and other protocols will be, we have created

and they are in desperate need of their funds and we think that it’s no more than right that we push on this for people who are qualified for the stimulus. We’re also protesting about crime and gun violence. Enough is enough.” Forbes revealed that two letters were prepared for both the Premier Hon. Sharlene Cartwright Robinson and Commissioner of Police Trevor Botting addressing their concerns and what solutions should be put in place.

a comprehensive internal “Hartling Resorts” health and safety guideline intended to put safety first, for both employees and visitors alike.” Whitt said all staff are being trained on the new standards and protocols and must pass a Covid-19 standards certification prior to reopening. She said the extensive new guidelines include training in each department on health and safety standards in all areas, and some examples include hospital-grade disinfectants for housekeeping; UV-LED lighting for inspection; common venues and public areas will be cleaned and sanitized every 30-minutes; no human contact rather a warm hand-over-heart greeting. She added that staff will

“When the young men come out of prison there is nothing for them to do, so the only other option they have is to go back to crime again. So we are asking for a program to be put in place for these young men, so that when they come out of prison they can have a second chance at life,” she explained. Forbes said if there are no replies to their letters, protesting will continue.

wear masks and in some cases other PPE such as gloves; sanitizing stations will be located throughout the property and anyone entering the property will be subject to a temperature check. Dining venues will follow international protocols for social distancing and there will be no back-to-back arrivals to give adequate time for cleaning and sanitizing each room, and many other new protocols. “Our training document is 46 pages and follows a comprehensive guideline of all touch points from the guest arrival to the fond farewell. All team members are currently undergoing health screenings, and will always be required to undergo temperature checks before the start of each shift and upon departure of the resorts,” she added.

Hurricane Preparedness Trim trees and shrubbery near your building and remove any weakened sections of trees that could break and cause damage. Further information and hurricane safety tips are available on our website: www.fortistci.com/hurricane-preparedness-tips

www.fortistci.com | 649-946-4313

Page 2

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

LOCAL NEWS

Prison officer seriously injured on duty On Wednesday 3 June 2020, a Prison Officer was seriously injured in the line of duty, when he was assaulted by a prisoner who attacked him with a weapon and was rendered unconscious. According to a Government statement, the Prison Officer was subsequently taken to the hospital in Grand Turk and was flown to Providenciales for further testing, before returning home to Grand Turk where he is currently recovering. On Thursday, the prison team had the opportunity to speak to the Deputy Governor and management in the Ministry of Home Affairs which has responsibility for the Prison, about a range of safety issues and concerns. The Deputy Governor reassured the prison staff that protective gear has been ordered and additional riot equipment has been sourced, which is expected to arrive shortly. Further, the prison team

were assured of training that will be delivered to them by the UK security team on public order training within the coming week which would further help to develop skills among the prison officer team. Other measures being taken include the addition of group insurance for the coverage of incidents involving Prison Officers who are injured in the line of duty. Additionally, on Friday 5 June 2020, a prisoner took the opportunity to throw items into the Superintendent’s Office breaking the window glass, causing the Superintendent to sustain a minor cut to his forehead, which was quickly treated before he returned to his duty post at the prison. While these incidents are not related, they are symptoms of wider issues that Strategic Planning Group for the Prison, headed by management of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Her Majesty’s Prison and the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, are currently

working on. from the maximum security wing, The group will be which is under construction now recommending to the Cabinet a with projected completion within full review of the Prison which the current year, as well as the will identify opportunities for additional fencing and lighting. improvement in the operations, The cell phone blocking equipment skills and training for staff and contract has been signed, and infrastructural requirements. installation is due to commence in Additionally, the group will coming weeks. be delivering on essential training The Ministry and and skills development for the prison Management of the Prison are staff and will further be undertaking confident that these measure, along a review of the Prisons Ordinance with other key initiatives will help to to allow for more effective response improve the overall security of the to incidents of this nature. The Prison and the skills and confidence prison also benefits from a highly of the staff. experienced UK training manager The Minister with who will arrive when international responsibility for the Prison, Hon. borders open shortly. The prison will Goldray Ewing, commenting on then be able to start training a small this week’s incidents said, “ we additional prison officer tactical have many brave and caring prison team to manage serious incidents. officers, and we recognize and These cases, as well as a appreciate their hard work on behalf number of other police crime cases of our society, and as a Government are under active management, and we stand firm in partnership with the Commissioner of Police has them and will continue to invest in asked for these cases to get priority. and support the improvements at The prison will also benefit the Prison, for the safety of all.”

Jetblue alters flight plans for June Due to border closures and shrinking flight demands, JetBlue Airways has decided to make further alterations to their flight operations for the month. Flights planned to operate within the Turks and Caicos Islands during the month of June have now all been cancelled. JetBlue’s planning team has

reviewed their flight operations and flights such as this would be at the has decided to cancel their entire June discretion of the Turks and Caicos flight schedule for Providenciales Islands Government aligning the (PLS). synergies of the Tourism Board Due to the fluid nature of as well as the Airports Authority the current aviation environment, (TCIAA). they will be open to the possibility Flight operations remain under of an ad hoc repatriation flight review as it relates to July flights should negotiations allows. Special during and after the recently

announced Airport reopening date of July 22nd, 2020. All efforts are being made for the purpose of preventing, controlling and suppressing the spread of the virus (Covid-19). All passengers are asked to contact JetBlue directly in order to alter any flight bookings.

TCI CAR RENTAL AND SALES LIMITED Location: Suzie Turn, Lot #75, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, TCI

TCI Car Rental and Sales Limited are looking for the following employees: •Two (2) Car Rental and Sales Agents – Salary is $2,000 a month •Two (2) Car Mechanics with at least 10 years experience – Salary is $2,800 a month Rental and Sales Agents duties: Greeting clients as they arrive, answering the telephone, handling client questions or complaints and working to resolve overdue car rentals. Car Mechanics duties: Inspecting vehicle computer and electronic systems to repair maintain and upgrade. Conducting routine maintenance work aiming to vehicle functionality and longevity. For further information with regards to the employment, please contact the following persons: Mr. John A. Williams Mobile No: +1(649)344-8644 Email: browill649@gmail.com Mr. FIO FIRAT MAYIL Mobile No: +44775757577 Email: fiomontana@hotmail.co.uk These positions are new Interested Turks and Caicos Islander applicants must send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board

Shiney’s Bakery

Location: In Leeward, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Is seeking 1 Artisan Baker Duties include, baking bread, Cake decorating, working with fondant, chocolate and Pull sugar Must have 10 years experience To work 6 day Per Week Salary is $10.25 an hour Please Contact: 247-8206 or email to shineysbakery@gmail.com This position is currently held by a Work Permit Holder Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders must submit copied of their applications to the Labour Board

JUNE 12TH, 2020 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 3

Page 4

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

The health and safety of our customers and staff remain our top priority during this time, and we thank you for your patience as we work together to stem the spread of Covid-19. Please be advised that Provo Water Company's Grace Bay Office on Grace Bay Road will re-open to customers on Monday 11th May from 9.00am to 2.00pm Monday to Friday. The following precautions will be taken:•

Covid-19 Regulations requires every person in a public space to wear a face mask.

•

Each customer must sanitize his/her hands upon entering the payment centre.

•

Only one (1) customer at any time will be allowed to enter our payment centre.

IT IS THE LAW

Our Customer Service Department will continue to serve customers from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday. Customers seeking to establish a new service, reconnection, account changes or queries can contact Customer Service Department at 649-946-5202 or email customerservice@provowater.tc for assistance. Staff will remain available for emergency assistance, please call

649-231-0705

to report a fault, broken water line

or outage. We are encouraging customers to utilize our

My Account Portal

either via our website or at https://provo-

myacct.smartgridcis.net to view water bills, make payments, view water usages and update account details. Customers can continue to make payments via our payment vendors:•

CIBC First Caribbean, Scotia Bank and RBC Caribbean

•

Graceway IGA stores during their hours of operation.

We appreciate your cooperation with these pro-active measures that will remain in place until further notice.

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 5

LOCAL NEWS

Premier pleads with TC Islanders who lost jobs to apply to Labour Board By Todeline Defralien Premier Hon. Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson is pleading with Turks and Caicos Islanders who lost their jobs in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic to apply to Labour Board. The Minister of Finance, Investment and Trade said the government is hearing about a number of job losses but it is not registering in their government system. “You have to eat, we understand that and we honestly understand that. I have to appeal to you if you’ve lost your job; I beg you please register with Labour so that we will know that you’ve lost your job,” Robinson said during a call-in programme on Radio Turks and Caicos on Tuesday, June 2nd, 2020.

She added, “We’re hearing that people are hungry, which we know but we still need to be able to get help targeted. We really need you to help us to self police, to help your neighbours, to be compliant, but also to help us to help you in another way. Robinson encouraged persons who can work from home to continue to do so. “If you can still work from home, work from home,” she ended. In a national address on May 29th, 2020, the Premier stated: “Despite the widespread statements that persons have lost their jobs, we do not see these reflected in registration by unemployed persons with Labour Department and I wish to appeal to our people to register so that we can be measured and appropriate

in our response. The Labour Department has reached out to businesses and have also had businesses reach out to it to advise of the number of persons laid off. Presently, there are a total of 152 persons confirmed to be unemployed by way of employer submissions. The breakdown is as follows: Belongers 84; Residence Permit 3; Permanent Residence 1; Freelance Permit 4; Jamaicans 16; Sri Lankans 14; Haitians 11; Dominicans 11; Canadians 4; Nepalese 3 and British 1 person. At that time she said that so far a total of 84 Turks and Caicos Islanders have been laid off and a total of 63 expatriates have also been laid off. “These numbers have been attained through employer’s submissions. The Ministry of Immigration expect this

Premier Hon. Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson. number to change once information is received from the several businesses, who are currently holding discussions with staff. I use this opportunity to appeal to TC Islanders who have lost their jobs to register with the Labour Department. Mr. Speaker, the Ministry of Immigration has made available contact information to register in the form of email, hotline numbers as well as office drop in.”

271 illegal migrants repatriated to Haiti Some 271 illegal migrants comprising 219 males and 52 females, were repatriated to Haiti on Saturday June 6th, 2020. This was done by the Ministry of Immigration, Citizenship, Labour and Employment Services in collaboration with the Immigration Department. Based on information received from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Marine Branch, there were recently two illegal migrant vessels interceptions with a combined total of 136 and 129 respectively, with a follow up in land operation, which

saw the apprehension of a further 6 illegal migrants. The Enforcement agencies of the Turks and Caicos Islands are again appealing to persons with information concerning planned and landed arrival of illegal person. Additionally, the marine community assistance is required on poachers’ activities and any suspicious movements. You are asked to contact the Police anonymously on 911 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1-800-8477 TIPS. Hon. Vaden Delroy Williams, Minister of Immigration, Citizenship, Labour and Employment Services

expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to all agencies involved in this successful apprehension and repatriation of these illegal migrants and encouraged them to keep up the great team work as we all do our part in protecting the Borders and residents of the TCI, particularly amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. He said these dangerous voyages are very risky and not worth the loss of life. Williams thanked the Marine Branch of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, the Enforcement Unit of the Immigration Department,

the UK Marines and our partners of the United States Coast Guard, for their assistance in protecting our borders. The public is reminded that it an offence to harbour or assist illegal persons and that persons found guilty engaging in such activities are liable to a fine of US$20,000 or a term of imprisonment of four years, or both in accordance with the Immigration Ordinance 2018 Revised or any law. As such, the public is also requested to provide the Police with tips or any information related to this or any other illegal landing.

interCaribbean Airways is seeking to fill the following positions: The Somerset Resort Management Ltd. is seeking Labour Clearance for the position listed below currently held by a work permit holder. Suitably qualified Belongers who possess the requirements listed are encouraged to submit an application with a copy to the Labour department. The ideal candidate will possess extensive high-end luxury resort General Managerial experience, be professional in attitude and demeanor and must read and speak English fluently. Position requires a flexible schedule which includes holidays, weekends and evenings, and extended hours on occasion. RESORT GENERAL MANAGER To oversee all aspects of Property Management and Operations in accordance with Company mission statement, including maximization of financial performance, Guest satisfaction, and staff development within established Resort standards. Developing and implementing strategies for meeting goals in the areas of revenue generation, market share performance, Guest satisfaction scores and net operating income. The General Manager Reports to the Somerset Management Board of Directors. Responsibilities: •Overseeing efficient overall Resort Operations, by department. •Maintaining strict financial controls. Regularly reporting operating results to Ownership. •Implementing Resort’s annual budgets. Ensuring financial performance against same. •Liaising closely with Resort Strata and Food & Beverage operators to maximize facility performance and profitability. •Being highly visible throughout the property. Interacting with Resort Guests daily. •Negotiating and implementing outside vendor contracts. •Fostering a positive, supportive work environment for Resort staff. Creating future industry superstars. •Interacting with governmental agencies and civic / community organizations on an ongoing basis. Requirements: •Undergraduate and Graduate degrees from an Ivy league university, in Hospitality Management or related field. •Minimum 20 years proven success record as a luxury property General Manager within the hospitality sector. •Minimum 35 years’ experience in hospitality. •Strong industry contacts with tour and travel operators, wholesalers, travel advisors and hospitality sector trade organizations. •Knowledge of property management systems (Opera essential) and related software programs. Ability to analyze industry data from sources such as e-STR. •Diverse experience in sales, advertising, integrated customer relationship marketing strategy and execution, and Resort / Advertising agency synergy. •Knowledgeable of all company administration policies and procedures, including but not limited to accounting and human resources. •Superior leadership skills. Ability to lead by example. Experienced in resolving conflicts between different parties in a dispute. •Superior verbal and written communications skills. •High ethical standards. Excellent communicator. Strong analytical ability. Visionary. •Physically able to work / stand for long periods of time. Base salary range: $100,000 / annum to commensurate with qualification & experience. Benefits: Service gratuity, vacation & employee meals. Qualified Belonger candidates can complete an application form in person at The Somerset on Grace Bay, 10 Sibonne Drive, Providenciales, TCI or submit a resume by e-mail at HR@thesomerset.com for questions call (649) 339 5900. The closing date for applications is June 20th, 2020.

Aircraft Mechanics: Certification from an accredited institution, with A&P License or equelivant. Experience with Avionics system in EMB120/145 aircraft: 2-3 years or more experience /endorsement of EMB120/145 on license. Must be Dependable, innovative, and a strong team player, can also work independently. Aircraft Cleaners: candidate must have a high school diploma, be hard working and willing to work weekend and holidays. Must have a valid passport and a clean police record. Wages $7.00 per hour. Security Guards: Must have a high school diploma and possess the following skills; Excellent communicator in English language (written and verbal). Computer knowledge and proficiency with Microsoft words and excel. Valid police record and passport. Wage $7.50 per hour. Mechanic(vehicle) 2 -3 years’ experience with diesel engine and hydraulics. Reliable and hardworking Computer literate, with valid driver’s license, police record and passport. Interested person should send their resumes to HR@ intercaribbean.com

Page 6

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

LOCAL NEWS

Ministry of Tourism statement on Returning Residents The Ministry of Tourism continues to encourage Turks and Caicos Islands residents and students who wish to return to the country, to register with the Tourist Board. Persons who wish to return should send an email to travel@ turksandcaicostourism.com to provide the following: a) b) c) d) e)

Name Number of persons in your traveling party Contact information Country of departure Proof of legal status in the Turks and Caicos Islands As

May

15th

the

Emergency Powers (COVID-19) (No. 4) (Amendment) (No. 3) Regulations 2020 came into operation and provided for the return of the following persons by international air travel:

Flights arrangements are currently in progress and final details will be provided to persons registered in our database. The following upcoming flights have been coordinated by the Ministry of Tourism for returning residents:

1. Turks and Caicos Islanders 2. Permanent residents who •London, Heathrow to ordinarily reside in the Islands Providenciales on 11th June 2020 for the majority of the year as via British Airways opposed to those who reside outside of the Islands and only •Nassau, Bahamas to Providenciales travel to the Islands occasionally on 11th June 2020 via Bahamas Air during the year Additional flights will be announced 3. Residence Permit holders who to facilitate the return of residents are married to Turks and Caicos prior to the reopening of our Islanders borders on July 22, 2020. Returning residents should note the

following: 1.You must contact the airlines directly to book a seat. Details will be provided to you via email. 2.You will be required to complete and submit to the airline a health screening questionnaire for COVID-19 prior to arrival in the Islands. 3.You will be placed under quarantine in a specified place for a period of fourteen days and shall be monitored by a health officer for symptoms and signs of COVID-19 disease. 4.You will be required to sign a quarantine order and to complete other relevant forms as required by the Ministry of Health.

targets ensuring profitability •Periodically monitor Customer Satisfaction Ratings of tours to ensure that the Client expectations are being met on all excursions or tours. •Perform other related or non- related company duties assigned from time to time. •Ensure timeliness of service is effectively managed •Ensure the guest experience is maintained at a high level

On Property Revenue (OPR) Manager – Grand Turk (TCI) Our establishment is dynamic in nature, fast paced and requires a level of maturity and dedication. We have very enjoyable working environments and amazing people from all walks of life. We require anOPR Manager that is passionate, prepared to evolve with the times and become actively involved in all aspects of working in the restaurant environment. The key part of any management role is to be able to juggle a full staff contingent while performing all your expected duties and tasks on a timely basis. Communication with Head Office in terms of training, marketing campaigns, follow ups, complaints handling, POS system updates and finance recording are essential parts of each day. Duties and Responsibilities: •Managing of all revenue centers in the country •Develop and implement new OPR strategies to increase company profitability. •Work with the Stores and Inventory team to ensure that proper storage and inventory is being maintained of equipment that is placed in long term storage. •Ensure all revenue centers are equipped with the suitable tools for operational efficiency •Set, track and assess respective revenue centers daily, monthly and yearly sales targets. •Hold daily huddles with Team Leads of revenue centers. •Ensure environs are kept clean, sanitized and free from debris •Manage Petty Cash assigned to location based on needs and in line with budget. •Ensure that Labor ratios and labor efficiency standards are managed, maintained and ultimately improved. •Develop cost effective plans ways and means to motivate staff and teams at the location. •Enforce all disciplinary penalties and rewards in conjunction with HR. •Ensure stock is safely and properly stored – FIFO method practiced •Ensure all team members are properly attired for work •The ability to establish pricing for each revenue center based on cost and

Minimum requirements: •Strong sales and finance acumen and understanding of a P&L statement •Positive and strong leadership, mentoring & management style •Minimum 5 years in a senior restaurant management position •Customer focused •Strong BOH experience as well as FOH •Ability to execute projects effectively and efficiently •Team player •Results orientated •Good communication skills with staff, customers and team •Passionate about the service Industry •Passionate about training and development •Reliable and dedicated as well as be able to work under pressure •Accurately report on business environment •Great communication and problem-solving skills •Trustworthy and honest •HACCP certification an asset Reports to: Country Manager Compensation Package: Between $2500-$3000 per month or according to experience and proven track record Role currently held by work permit holder Turks and Caicos Islanders applications will be given preference Deadline for submissions is June30, 2020 Applications along with CVs/ Resume’ may be submitted via Email to: gtadmin@chukka.com, please place the desired position in the subject line or deliver to the below address: CHUKKA HUMAN RESOURCES CHUKKA CARIBBEAN ADVENTURES (TCI) LTD South Base Lyndon Gardiner Boulevard Grand Turk, TCI

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 7

LOCAL NEWS

FortisTCI projecting massive fuel factor decline for electricity customers

Over the next four months, FortisTCI is projecting that electricity consumers will see significant reductions in their energy costs by way of a declining fuel factor. Looking ahead, customers can expect the fuel factor to fall on average by approximately 80% in October, bringing added economic relief to homes and businesses across the Turks and Caicos. Customers will see a decline in the fuel factor on their June electricity bills. However, the company’s forecast models indicate FortisTCI is passing fuel saving to its customers as quickly as possible. In October, it is projected that the most significant decreases customers will see a reduction in the fuel factor of up to 80% due to the drop in world market will start in July with an approximate prices. This will provide further economic relief to homes and businesses. 52% reduction in the fuel factor historic drop in world market fuel its highest impact, the company compared to January 2020. July’s prices this past March and April. anticipates that residential customers decline is followed by a 68% drop While the fuel supply chain presents will see their electricity bills reduced in August, a 73% drop in September, a lag in effective prices, FortisTCI on average by approximately23% before reaching an 80% decline in passes these reductions to customers to 27%. Commercial customers can expect, on average, an estimated20% October, compared to January 2020’s as quickly as possible. The projected decrease in fuel reduction in bills, medium hotels fuel factor. The decline in energy cost will result in an overall reduction and supermarkets, on average, will costscomes as a result of the near of electricity bills. Over the periodat see an estimated23% reduction and

large hotels, an approximately26% reduction on their electricity bills when compared to January 2020. FortisTCI President & CEO Eddinton Powell said, “The company has closely monitored the decline in global fuel prices and is glad to see the reduction in cost from our fuel supplier that can now be passed on to our customers. The reduction in the cost of energy and the fuel factor will have a positive impact and provide further economic stimulus to our customers. While this means a reduction in electricity bills, customers must continue to manage their electricity consumption, especially as some continue to spend more time at home due to the pandemic, and as we enter the warmer summer months.” The information provided is a projection, and fuel prices may differ at the time of purchase as global crude and diesel commodity markets remain very volatile.

Best Contractors

Super Cuts Barber shop/Alex Higgs

Location: Aviation Drive, Upstairs Musgrove Place, Unit #2, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Is seeking: Barbers - $7.00 per hour Must be able to cut hair, must have at least 3 years experience and work from 9:00am-7:00pm and overtime if needed. Is seeking one Cashier - $6.50 Duties: Welcoming customers, answering their questions, and providing advice or recommendations Both persons must be able to work 5 days a week Interested persons may contact Alex Higgs, Owner of Super Cuts Barbershop at 243-5406 These positions are currently held by Work Permit Holders Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders should also send copies of their application to the Labour Board

#195255

Location: Five Cays, Building 34 A, Unit # 9, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Is seeking Labourers - $6.50 per hour Is seeking Two (2) Painters - $8.00 per hour Is seeking a Steel Man - $7.00 per hour Steel Man must be able to install iron or steel girders, columns, and other construction materials to form buildings, bridges, and other structures. Labourer duties may include cleaning and preparing a job site, loading and delivering materials, and using a variety of tools and machines. The Painters must be able to prepare painting surfaces by washing walls, repairing holes, or removing old paint. Must have three years experience To work 5 days per week Please Call Alex Higgs at 243-5406 These positions are held by Work Permit Holders Interested Turks and Caicos Islander applicants must send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board #195255

CORPORATE INSOLVENCY AND RESTRUCTURING ADVICE We hope that your business continues to survive the economic fallout of the many COVID-19 issues. Just in case it does not, you should consider professional advice at as early a stage as viable. Founded and led by the longest-licensed Insolvency Practitioner in the country, Caribbean Recovery and Insolvency Services Ltd (“CRIS”) offers solutionsfocused advice on a confidential basis. For businesses majority owned by Turks & Caicos Islanders, the first consultation by phone and initial analysis work of up to 5 hours in total is without charge. With offices at Salt Mills Plaza, Providenciales, contact tim@ caribbeanstructuring.com or tim@ prudhoecaribbean.com to arrange an initial discussion.

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 15 JUNE 2020 SYSTEMS ENGINEER Department: Information Technology Location: Grand Turk Annual Salary: $51,604 - $63,007 JOB SUMMARY The holder of this position reports directly to the Director of Information Technology. The Systems Engineer is responsible for planning and designing Windows based infrastructure, virtualization environments and storage networks across the infrastructure. This includes recommendation, configuration, installation, support and deployment of all server, storage and backup/archive technology including operating systems and management tools and associated software applications supported by the IT Department. 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 15 June 2020. 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.

Page 8

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

LOCAL NEWS TCI Hospital Outpatient Department Renovation Project InterHealth Canada - Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital wishes to advise the general public that the project announced by the TCI Government – Ministry of Health to install electrical sockets and medical gas lines in the Outpatient Department at Cheshire Hall Medical Centre is due to commence on Saturday, June 13th 2020 and is expected to span several weeks. According to a joint press release from TCI Hospital and TCI Government, the project is a collaborative effort, which is intended to expand the country’s critical care capacity and provide greater access to aggressive respiratory support, where required, as part of the national COVID-19 response and reopening of local borders to international flights.

Patients should expect Government - Ministry of Health. temporary changes to clinic scheduling InterHealth Canada, the hospital’s and the use of alternative onsite clinical private health care management areas to provide the least possible company, is specifically responsible for disruption to outpatient services during the application of infection prevention the renovation period. and control (IPC) and general safety During a national lockdown, processes once construction workers are outpatient services are normally onsite along with the coordination of downscaled to divert human resources clinic scheduling and patient flows. to the emergency response. Therefore, In partnership with key under these circumstances and in the stakeholders in the Ministry of Health case of adverse patient surges, the and Military of Defense, the company’s outpatient department rooms will role is also to advise TCI Government serve as a multipurpose space to deliver – Ministry of Health on the clinical advanced clinical care -- contingent human resource needs and the most upon staff and equipment availability -- suitable medical equipment to ensure once renovation works are complete. compatibility with existing hardware, The project is funded and clinical needs and planned preventative directed independently by the TCI maintenance requirements.

Don Forsyth named VP of Engineering and Energy Production and Delivery at FortisTCI FortisTCI announced the appointment of Don Forsyth as the company’s new Vice President of Engineering and Energy Production and Delivery. Don has more than 20 years of engineering and electric utility industry experience and has served the past seven years at FortisTCI in senior leadership roles. He assumed his new post effective June 1. In his new role, Don will lead the efficient operation and maintenance of FortisTCI’s energy production and transmission and distribution programs. He will also lead strategic planning for all energy production and delivery and engineering operations functions. Don joined FortisTCI in 2013 as Director of Electrical Engineering and Planning and Energy Delivery. He has held responsibility for leading the engineering and planning teams and supporting the engineering and system design functions. Don’s role expanded in 2016 when he was promoted to Senior Director of Electrical Engineering and

Planning and Energy Delivery, taking on additional operations functions, including engineering and project support for the developing FortisTCI renewable energy programs. Before joining FortisTCI, Don spent 16 years working for the electricity supplier in Grenada, Grenada Electricity Services. There he served seven years as a Senior Engineer, followed by six years as Planning and Engineer Manager. In both roles, Don led technical teams and planning for large engineering projects. Don holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering and an Executive Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of the West Indies. He has also participated as a guest speaker at numerous engineering and operations conferences, including the CARILEC Engineering Conference, CARILEC Renewable Energy Forum, and the Caribbean Resilient Infrastructure Forum. Speaking about the appointment, FortisTCI President & CEO Eddinton Powell said, “Don has played a crucial

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

Don Forsyth, VP of Engineering and Energy Production and Delivery. role as a member of the senior management team. His dedication to operational excellence remains steadfast, and his contribution to the development and mentoring of the younger engineers and technicians is without par. The utility business is complex and capital intensive, and many parts of it are potentially dangerous. Continuous training and talent management are two requisites of a good utility. On behalf of the entire FortisTCI family, I congratulate Don on this major milestone and welcome him as a member of the executive team. We wish him continued success in his career and his new role.”

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.

• Candidates should have a Master’s degree in Accounting or equivalent combination of education and experience • Preferably with professional qualification as a CPA or any equivalent accounting designation. • At least 7 years of experience in a senior finance management role is a must.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER POSITION SUMMARY: The Chief Financial Officer is responsible for directing the fiscal functions of the NHIB in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards and any other financial management techniques and practices appropriate within the health and insurance industries. MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Plan, develop, organize, implement, direct and evaluate the NHIB’s fiscal function and performance. • Participate in the development of the company’s plans and programs as a strategic partner. • Evaluate and advise on the impact of long-range planning and the introduction of new programs/strategies • Provide timely and accurate analysis of budgets, financial reports and financial trends in order to assist the CEO and the Board in performing their responsibilities. • Develop, implement and enforce financial policies and procedures that will improve the overall operation, efficiency and effectiveness of the company. • Provide technical financial knowledge and advice to others within the financial discipline. • May perform other duties as assigned by the CEO or any other person authorized to give instructions or assignments. • Lead the timely completion of the financial statement audit process. • Assist in the completion of key accounting functions such as reconciliations, manage and supervise the finance, compliance and billing teams. MINIMUM QUALIFICATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: • Experienced financial leader with appropriate industry experience, strong supervisory and mentoring skills, high ethical standards, exceptional analytical and problem solving, well organized and self-directed, excellent written/verbal communication, speak, read and write in excellent English language, proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel Spreadsheets and Pivot Tables, and Accounting software packages, effective time management skills. • Solid understanding of international financial reporting standards • Solid understanding of the NHIB Ordinance and Regulations • Experience in healthcare financing • Training in International Accounting Standards for Social Security • Experience in Microsoft Dynamics • Team worker who is willing to take a hands-on approach to the role. SALARY Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience on a scale of $82,200 to $89,310.00 per annum. All Applications should be addressed to: Sheena Smith-Yip National Health Insurance Board Salt Mills Plaza Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands British West Indies Email: recruitment@tcinhip.tc Please ensure the application clearly demonstrates how you meet the noted qualifications as applicants will be screened based on the information provided. We would like to thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those who are selected for an interview will be contacted. Deadline for submission is June 26, 2020

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

ambergris cay resort

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

alexandra resort

Page 9

beach house turks

caicos

blue haven resort

The Turks and Caicos Collection again says thank you to all staff during this very difficult and challenging time posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. TCC remains grateful for your outstanding work performance, your values and commitment to the company. This isn’t business as usual, we know that it’s a time of great stress and uncertainty, not just in the TCI but across the world as people are feeling the economic effects of this crisis. Please know that we will continue to look for new opportunities to help, provide you with current information and will play our part as we persevere through this difficult time. We sincerely regret not being in the position to assist more. We appreciate the difficulty and anxiety this situation creates for you and your families and we anticipate restoring you to your positions soon as possible. There is no instruction manual for how to feel currently, we know it causes stress for everyone and we ask for your continued patients. The message from our COO, “We have built, together, a remarkable brand and you have played an integral part in ensuring our success. You should all be proud of your efforts to that end. Now we have to make every effort to keep these properties afloat and available for a comeback whenever that is possible.” TCC again offers thanks to you, our resort and administrative teams and we encourage you to take care of yourselves and your loved ones. We’ll get through this, together.

Alexandra Resort alexandraresort.com +1.800.284.0699 +1.649.946.5807

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

Blue Haven Resort bluehaventci.com +1.855.832.7667 +1.649.946.9900

Ambergris Cay Resort ambergriscay.com +1.833.313.3172

Page 10

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

LOCAL NEWS

J. Wade Public Relations named agency of record for Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board

The Turks and Caicos Islands by the firm’s highly strategic approach Tourist Board, the exclusive tourism with thoughtful, creative ideas that representative for the Turks and will impact our bottom line, along Caicos Islands – home to the “World’s with their track record of success with Best Beach” – is proud to announce renowned travel and lifestyle clients. the appointment of J. Wade Public We look forward to partnering with J. Relations as its public relations agency Wade Public Relations to reopen our of record, effective immediately. borders and further long-term tourism J. Wade Public Relations, a growth to the Turks and Caicos boutique public relations and social Islands.” media firm specializing in travel and “We are proud to be selected lifestyle, will spearhead a strategic to represent the Turks and Caicos campaign that focuses on the defining Islands,” said Jenn Wade, president of pillars and ethos of the Islands, world- J. Wade Public Relations. “Leveraging class hospitality partners, and unique our strong press and celebrity niche experiences afforded by the relationships, we will initiate a destination. dynamic campaign that spotlights “We are confident in J. Wade Providenciales along with the Turks Public Relations’ expertise, approach and Caicos’ stunning boutique sister and passion for the Turks and Caicos islands. We are eager to tell the Islands,” said Pamela Ewing, Director story of the Turks and Caicos Islands, of Tourism for the Turks and Caicos which meets the desires of today’s Islands Tourist Board. traveler, beckoning with exploration “As we conducted our and discovery, cultural connections, national search, we were impressed and spacious and private escapes in a

naturally beautiful destination.” J. Wade Public Relations will develop and execute a strategic public relations campaign that expands upon the Turks and Caicos Islands’ position as a five-star luxury destination. The multi-faceted plan will focus on Providenciales, which garners most of the destination’s tourism each year, along with its emerging and boutique sister islands, including Grand Turk, North Caicos, Middle Caicos and South Caicos, among others, each with its own distinct personality and culturally rich charm. The firm’s integrated media outreach approach will include compelling and inspiring storytelling, along with visitation to drive positive results. As its agency of record, J. Wade Public Relations will articulate and invite press and celebrities to visit the destination firsthand, emphasizing the Turks and Caicos Islands’ natural beauty and diverse

Pamela Ewing, Director of Tourism experiences, including authentic culinary, exceptional spa offerings, and cruise hub, along with its distinctive portfolio of extraordinary private villas, and outdoor attractions. J. Wade Public Relations will also focus on bolstering the destination’s positioning as a premier wedding locale and exclusive setting for notables to escape to private island paradises.

Joanne Missick appointed Country Manager of Flow Turks & Caicos Joanne Missick has been appointed Country Manager for Flow Turks and Caicos effective June 6, 2020. Missick had been acting in the role for the last four months. The announcement was made by Garfield Sinclair, Vice President Cable & Wireless Communications (C&W), Northern Caribbean. Missick brings a wealth of knowledge to the role and more than 20 years of experience in the telecommunications industry, since starting with the Company in 1999 as an Operator in the C&W Operation

Services Centre. She has risen through the ranks of the company to eventually lead the B2B sales team, where she established an impressive track record of annual sales growth and has earned top rankings in the company’s sales performances across the region. As a member of the Turks senior leadership team, she has played an integral role in the company’s business and growth strategies and delivered exceptional service to customers and key stakeholders. Joanne takes the helm at a very challenging time for all businesses

and has already had to make tough decisions to navigate through the current COVID19 pandemic. VP Sinclair said, “I am delighted to see Joanne’s progress through the Turks business and her growth to its top leadership position. She is extremely talented and deserving of this appointment and I am confident that she will deliver on her commitment to the business and the wider Turks community.” Sinclair also stated that C&W will continue to work closely with Government and People of the Turks

Joanne Missick and Caicos Islands to ensure that we keep our customers and communities connected as well as contribute to the growth of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

AMBITOUS T&C ISLANDER LAWYER SOUGHT – PRUDHOE CARIBBEAN GOVERNMENT VACANCY (APPLICATION DEADLINE: 19TH JUNE 2020) JOB REFERENCE: JOB TITLE: DEPARTMENT: MINISTRY: LOCATION: SALARY:

CFB1-20-40 Disaster Operations Manager Department of Disaster Management of Emergencies Tourism, Environment, Heritage, Maritime, Disaster and Gaming Providenciales Grade 7 - $41,205.00 per annum

JOB SUMMARY: The Disaster Operations Manager (DOM) develops and manages operations for DDME’s disaster responses by readying people and systems, maintains readiness to respond to emergencies through several mechanisms, including managing the National Emergency Operation Center, Emergency Operation centers, coordinating, staffing, training, and equipping Disaster Assistance Response Teams (DARTs), and DDME Response Management Teams (RMTs), and stockpiling emergency relief commodities in key locations around the islands to ensure DDME’s capacity to execute and coordinate humanitarian assistance and response to natural disasters and complex emergencies. For full details regarding this position please visit our website at https://www.gov.tc/government-vacancies Please note: (Applications that are not accompanied by all required supporting documents will not be processed). (APPLICATION DEADLINE: 19TH JUNE 2020)

Our focus is on complex disputes work across a wide range of areas. We are also known for our commitment to pro bono work on issues impacting the TCI community. We are seeking one T&C Islander eligible for TCI Bar Admission and awaiting his or her period of supervised practice. Start date can be flexible for the right candidate. The position is not available “remotely” and is likely to include a period of work experience in a pre-eminent set of criminal law Barristers’ chambers in London (costs would be covered by the firm) and for which timings would obviously be subject to the impact / disruptions of the COVID-19 virus issues. The ideal candidate would have an existing interest in judicial review and other administrative and regulatory work and a willingness to appear in proceedings adverse to Caribbean governments. Also, a wish to “start at the beginning” in terms of advocacy experience (including criminal work at trial and appellate level). Excellent opportunities exist for involvement (at the appropriate level of responsibility) in non-TCI work around the Caribbean Region and beyond. Subject to the start date for any successful candidate, application for admission is unlikely to be sought until a minimum of 3-months after resumption of in-person court hearings. Any discussions with regard to this advertisement would be entirely confidential. Tim Prudhoe can be contacted on tim@ prudhoecaribbean.com so as to arrange a phone call or inperson meeting. The target date for expressions of interest is Friday July 17th, 2020.

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 11

LOCAL NEWS

Colonel Ennis Grant appointed Commanding Officer of the TCI Regiment Lieutenant Colonel Ennis Grant has been appointed the first Commanding Officer of the TCI Regiment. Grant was appointed following an interview panel chaired by the Governor that included: the Permanent Secretary National Security, the President of the Community College, the Police Commissioner and the Lieutenant Colonel commanding the UK military presently in TCI. Lt Col Grant will spend the first year of his appointment on secondment from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police. “We were fortunate to have had such a well-qualified candidate apply. Lt Col Grant, a Turks and Caicos Islander, presently commands the Maritime Branch of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police and Commands the Cadet Force. He holds a Masters Degree,” a release from the Governor’s office stated.

Lt Col Grant has now started in his new role and is working with, and being mentored by, the UK military. In the coming months, as the Regiment forms, Lt Col Grant will go on to develop strong relationships with his counterparts in the Bahamas, Cayman and Bermuda. He comes to command the Regiment with links already forged with the US Coast Guard and UK military. The Regiment, once formed, will have two primary roles: to be in direct support of the Maritime Police, in a role very similar to that being conducted by the Royal Marines during this period and also, to provide a contingent force capable of preparing the Islands and supporting the islands - at time of natural or other Disaster. Beyond those operational roles the Regiment, it’s ethos and its character, will develop into a proud symbol of the Turks and Caicos

NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION EQUITY LTD. AS CHARGEE, PURSUANT TO THE CHARGE AND THE REGISTERED LAND ORDINANCE HEREBY GIVES NOTICE THAT IT WILL SELL BY PUBLIC AUCTION THE PROPERTIES LISTED BELOW. THE PUBLIC AUCTION WILL BE HELD AT 10:00 AM THE 8th DAY OF JULY, 2020 AT THE OFFICES OF TWA, MARCELIN, WOLF, CHANCERY COURT BUILDING, 1276 LEEWARD HIGHWAY, PROVIDENCIALES, PROPERTY #1: TITLE 60804/169, THE BIGHT AND THOMAS STUBBS, PROVIDENCIALES PROPRIETOR: PHOENIX DEVELOPMENTS LTD. PROPERTY: A PARCEL OF APPROXIMATELY 0.35 ACRES ON THE EAST SIDE OF PRINCESS DRIVE OPPOSITE THE SOMERSET RESORT, WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE OF GRACE BAY BEACH. ON THE PROPERTY THERE IS A SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DWELLING OF APPROXIMATELY 2550 SQUARE FEET INCLUDING ENTRY PORCH, FOYER, OPEN KITCHEN/DINING/LIVING AREA, 2 BEDROOMS, 2 BATHROOMS, OWNER’S CLOSET, LAUNDRY ROOM, POWDER ROOM ALL ON THE MAIN FLOOR. ON THE MEZZANINE LEVEL THERE IS A BEDROOM AND BATHROOM. THERE IS A DECK AND POOL WITH SIDE AND REAR PATIOS. PROPERTY #2: TITLE 60804/170, THE BIGHT AND THOMAS STUBBS, PROVIDENCIALES PROPRIETOR: PHOENIX DEVELOPMENTS LTD. PROPERTY: A PARCEL OF APPROXIMATELY 1.03 ACRES ON THE EAST SIDE OF PRINCESS DRIVE OPPOSITE THE SOMERSET AND IMMEDIATELY BEHIND THE SIBONNE RESORT, WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE OF GRACE BAY BEACH. ON THE PROPERTY IS A PARTIALLY COMPLETED MULTI-UNIT CONDOMINIUM BUILDING WITH FIVE STORIES DESIGNED TO BE USED FOR SHORT TERM VACATION RENTALS.IN ADDITION THE PROPERTY HAS AN INGROUND POOL AND DECK WITH LARGE PAVED PARKING AREA. TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION ARE AVAILABLE BY REQUEST FROM TWA, MARCELIN, WOLF. NOTE THAT BOTH PROPERTIES ARE BEING SOLD AS IS. EQUITY LTD. c/o Twa Marcelin Wolf 1276 Leeward Highway Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands phone: (649) 946-4261 Email: tmw@tmwlaw.tc

Islands and Lt Col Grant - as its first Commanding Officer - will set the tone of this early and important period in the Regiments formation. Advertisements for the five further permanent staff, who will join the Commanding Officer in standing up the Regiment, will now be advertised. Some of these posts will involve training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst starting in September. The forty reserve (part-time) posts, that will be the Lieutenant Colonel Ennis Grant Non Commissioned Officers and be under some physical and mental ‘Marines’ of the Regiment, will be pressure throughout. recruited later in the year. We hope the best in TCI will Shortlisted candidates will be apply. We are looking for leadership assessed over several days drawing potential that can be developed, so on the methodology used by the no one should be discouraged from UK’s Army Officer Selection Board. putting their name forward for That includes: physical assessment, lack of experience. Training will be written communication; led and excellent. The selection process will leaderless command tasks; interviews be overseen by the new Commanding and the ability to plan and conduct Officer of the TCI Regiment and UK a detailed appreciation of a complex military staff who have, themselves, task. Candidates should expect to been instructors at Sandhurst.

Rambo Construction 95 Location: Blue Hills Bay Road, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Seeking 12 – Masons - $12.00 per hour 8 Carpenters - $12.00 per hour 6- Semi Carpenters - $ 9.00 per hour 10 Labourers - $ 7.00 per hour 6 Cleaning Ladies/Domestic Workers - $ 6.50 per hour Carpenters must be able to cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials Labourer’s duties include cleaning and preparing a job site, loading and delivering materials, and using a variety of tools and machines Duties include keeping the work place tidy: sweeping, mopping or washing of the floors, sinks, toilets, tubs, garage entry way, and counters To work 6 days per week Please Contact: 346-6455 Some of these positions are new 8 of these positions are renewals (Cleaning Ladies/Domestic Workers /Carpenters and Mason) Interested Turks and Caicos Islander applicants must send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board

JaMalCo Ltd. Location: F202 Regent Village, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Is Seeking: 16 Construction Helpers Duties: Assist construction craftworkers with various tasks; clean and prepare sites, machinery and equipment. Salary: $6.25/hr; 42 hrs/wk Seeking: 6 Carpenters Duties: Construct, erect, install and repair building frameworks, and fixtures. Salary: $12/hr; 42 hrs/wk Seeking: 2 Steel Erector Workers

Duties: Raise, place, assemble and unite iron or steel girders, columns, crossbeams, scaffolds, and pipe sections. Salary: $12/hr; 42 hrs/wk Seeking: 2 Painters Duties: Prepare paint surfaces, mix, match, and apply paints and other finishes to various surfaces. Salary: $12/hr; 42 hrs/wk All Positions currently held by work permit holders.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS IS JUNE 15, 2020 Applications can be dropped off at the office, Immigration Board, and/or emailed to jmc@tciway.tc

Page 12

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

LOCAL NEWS

Report from June 11th Cabinet Meeting His Excellency the Governor, an Expanded Testing Strategy for Prison and Firearms Ordinances Nigel Dakin, chaired the 21st meeting • Approved a request from the Covid-19 to include symptomatic to allow trained prison and police of the Cabinet on Thursday 11th NHIB to waive late fees/penalties persons in the community or in health officers to use pepper spray, mace June by videoconference. for contributors for the months of care facilities, health care workers and tasers in the course of their duty. March and April 2020, which were at risk, contacts of a confirmed All members were present. due payable on 14 April 2020 and 14 case, persons in congregated living • Were updated on the recruitment May 2020. settings (HMP, Detention Centre and imminent arrival of health At this meeting, Cabinet: and Wellness Centres), persons going workers from Cuba in support of the • Noted a paper setting out proposed overseas as a part of the Treatment Covid-19 pandemic. • Were updated on Covid-19 related National Culture and Heritage Policy Abroad Program and front line activities being carried out by the and a Strategic Implementation Plan workers. • Approved financial assistance Ministries of Health and Tourism for the Turks and Caicos Islands for for students on grant scholarships including infrastructure upgrades in the period 2020 – 2029. • Approved the extending of returning to TCI form the UK and hospitals, a national testing strategy, the Transitional provision for expressed their gratitude for those policy for visitors and returning • Approved an extension of waivers on practitioners under the Health within government responsible for residents, increases in hospital staff, import duties and customs processing Professions Ordinance 2016 with the return of 114 TCI residents. ongoing domestic engagement fees as agreed under the Customs effect of 10 June 2020. with the hotel and tourism sector, (Covid-19) (Duty Exemption) Order • Were update on plans by engagement with governments and 2020 and the Emergency Powers • Approved amendments to Emergency international airlines resume flights organizations in the region and the (Covid-19) (Waiver of Customs Powers (Covid-19)(Amendment) to TCI as of 22 July 2020. provision of public advice (Protocols). Processing Fee) Regulations 2020 (No. 5) Regulations 2020 to permit from 1st to 30th June for essential travel for the purposes of domestic • Were update on recruitment of five • Noted the Public Expenditure and food items and 1st June to 31st July construction and external visitors permanent TCI Regiment staff. Financial Accountability (PEFA) for sanitary items (face mask, hand responding to essential work in Further information on these matters assessment for the period 2016 to sanitizer etc.). response to the current pandemic. will be provided by Ministers in due 2019, and agreed on an action plan course. prior to publication. • Noted and discussed next steps on • Approved regulations under the

Rambo Lee graduates with distinction in Business Administration from Lehman College Rambo Rolle Lee graduated with Cum laude/distinction and achieved his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Herbert H. Lehman College, Bronx New York City. Lee, the son of Evel Lee and local businessman Rico “Rambo” Rolle, is ecstatic about his achievement which he completed while working full-time. He told The SUN, “Since I started my undergraduate studies, I took on the challenge of attending college full time while working full-time jobs simultaneously.” “It wasn’t an easy task. There

were many long, sleepless nights, assignments stacking up and I also had to perform at a very demanding job. Now, as a college graduate, I am glad to say it was all worth it. I will still have to overcome obstacles, but with the support of mom and dad, nothing will be impossible.” Lehman College is the City University of New York’s only fouryear college in the Bronx, serving the borough and surrounding region as an intellectual, economic, and cultural center. Lehman provides undergraduate and graduate studies in the liberal arts

INTERISLAND AVIATION SERVICES GROUP SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES WHICH ARE:

and sciences and professional education within a dynamic research environment. With a diverse student body of more than 14,000 students and more than 81,000 alumni, Lehman offers more than 90 undergraduate and graduate programs. Ranked as having the fourth highest mobility rate in the nation by the National Bureau of Economic Research and the Equality of Opportunity Project, Lehman is a proud catalyst for economic and social mobility for its students, almost half of whom are first generation Rambo Rolle Lee. college students.

LIVE-IN PROPERTY MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR REQUIRED

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

For a large private family estate in Providenciales operated by Samuel Gillespie.

Flight Dispatcher – Must have a FAA dispatcher license and be experience with navigationfacilities over airline routes. Must have good vision, hearing, enunciation and be competent in airline communication and meteorology. Experience with monitoring, analyzing and/or calculating various flight factors such as weather reports, runaway performance, weight and balance issues. Salary $30,000 per year.

Job Duties to include the following:

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

Experienced Live-In Property Maintenance Supervisor needed for a busy household.

•General repairs to roof and various wooden structures on the premises •General electrical repairs to and maintenance of water pump, electronics and machinery •Maintenance of multiple pools (five) and hot tubs (two), including maintenance and repairs to pool pumps, filters and proper application of pool chemicals •Contribute to verbal and written evaluations and communications as requested •Responsibility for handling general custodial and maintenance emergencies

Gardener: hard working, reliable and willing to work weekends and holidays. Wages $7.00 per hour.

The Property rents up to ten weeks a year, therefore, this position also requires supervisory and liaison skills with third party villa rental management staff and international guests during rentals. The On call 24/7 for emergency repairs during rentals.

TECHNICAL RECORDS ADMINISTRATOR: Successful candidate must possess the following;

Applicant must have:

• Have in-depth knowledge of aircraft computerize tracking software and programs. • Have adequate knowledge of Turks and Caicos aviation laws as it relates to OTARS Part 39, Part 43, Part 47 and Part 145 • Have knowledge and experience with Caribbean Aviation Maintenance Services maintenance organization exposition and documentation procedures. • Collect all aircraft records / data daily for input into maintenance tracking program • Ensure records are available during certificate of airworthiness renewal • Record all maintenance inspections/checks in the logbooks and component changes and issue warranty notification forms for components failing within the warranty period. • Ensuring that component change in the Computerized Maintenance System is correctly executed and reflects the transaction recorded on the Technical Log pages, must be hard working, reliable and willing to work weekends and holidays Salary $36,000 per annum. Interested persons send resume to HR@intercaribbean.com. Belonger and PRC holders need only apply.

•Excellent interpersonal and communication skills in English •Excellent carpentry and electrical skills •Ability to operate tools and machines common to the building trades •Knowledge and experience in maintaining hot tubs, pools, pool pumps and filters as well as proper application of pool chemicals •At least ten years’ in building maintenance for a large private family villa •A valid driving licence with a clean record and the ability to operate a manual shift, right-hand drive vehicle. •Flexibility to work six days a week Salary is $2,136.75 per month. This advertisement is for a work permit renewal application. All suitably qualified TC Islanders are requested to submit resumes/portfolios via email to:contact@stanbrooks-law.com or delivery: Stanbrooks Law Third Floor Graceway House Providenciales

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 13

HOW TO PAY YOUR FORTISTCI BILL

Dear Valued Customer, As the COVID-19 situation continues to unfold, FortisTCI wants you to know that we are here for you. We are following our robust business continuity plans, and our employees are working around the clock to keep the lights on. For those working to keep their bills as current as possible, we are offering more ways to pay while our customer service centers are closed. My Online Account

The online customer web portal is accessible 24 hours a day and allows you to monitor your daily consumption, view your account balance, and pay your bill using a credit or debit card. To register, log onto www.fortistci.com, select the ‘My Online Account’ tab, and click ‘register now’. You will need your meter number and account number.

Pay Online Using a Local Bank

If you bank with FirstCaribbean, ScotiaBank, or RBC, you can pay your bill online using their online bill payment option. You must register through your bank and should speak with a bank representative for more information. Payments are posted within 48 hours.

Payment by Cash or Check

Customers who cannot pay online using a credit card, debit card, or their bank account, can pay their bills by check or cash at the following authorized payment agent locations: • Provo – Any Graceway Supermarket location • North & Middle Caicos – At BETCO (Bernie Handfield), Bottle Creek • South Caicos – At Seaview Market, Stubbs Road • Grand Turk - National Company Services (NCS), Cees Building, Church Folly Road Customers are reminded to adhere to all curfew stipulations as outlined by the government and should only access the above essential service locations at times prescribed in the law. If utilizing an authorized pay agent to make a bill payment, have your bill on hand at the time of payment.

Questions? Email or Call for Account Updates

If you have questions or need account information, you can email us at customerservice@fortistci.com, or call 649-946-4313. Our customer service representatives are available Monday to Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Sincerely, FortisTCI

2017 Winner

Allied Member of the Year

BCMS 681102

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

Page 14

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

LOCAL NEWS

Bladder Infections A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection anywhere along the urinary tract. This includes the bladder, kidneys, ureters, or the urethra. A bladder infection is the most common type of urinary tract infection. They are relatively common, affecting well over 25% of persons, especially women, at some point in their lives, and for many persons, this is a recurring problem. What causes a bladder infection? Bacteria is always present in the genital and rectal area. These organisms occasionally enter the urethra (the tube through which we urinate that opens onto the genitals) and travel into the bladder causing an infection. Normally, the body removes the bacteria by flushing them out during urination. But sometimes the bacteria can attach to the walls of the bladder and multiply leading to an infection. Whilst anyone can get bladder infections, women are more prone to getting them than men. This is because females have shorter urethras, making the path to the bladder easier for bacteria to reach. Factors that can increase the risk of bladder infections for both men and women including insufficient fluid intake, repeatedly avoiding the urge to pee therefore holding the urine when the bladder is full and increased sexual activity. Anything that affects the free flow of urine through the urinary tract

such as having a narrow urethra, birth defects or injuries affecting the tract or an enlarged prostate will also increase the risk of developing a UTI. What are the symptoms? The symptoms of a bladder infection vary depending on the severity. Some of the most common symptoms include urinating more often than usual and having sudden urges to urinate, pain on urination and lower abdominal cramping or pain. The urine may also become cloudy, tainted with blood or have an unpleasant smell. Urinary infections can also cause back pain if it ascends into the kidneys. A kidney infection may cause a fever and make you feel lethargic and generally unwell. How is a bladder infection diagnosed? Most times your doctor will be able to tell what’s happening just by taking to your history and listening to your symptoms. After examining you, a simple test can be done in the office to confirm the diagnosis and help assess the severity of the infection. Sometimes the urine may even be sent to the lab to confirm the diagnosis and help streamline your antibiotic choice according to the organisms that are present in the urine. How is a bladder infection treated?

Bladder infections are treated with oral antibiotics to kill the bacteria. If you are having a fever or pain, your doctor may also prescribe medications to help with these symptoms. Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the bacteria out of your bladder. Whilst water is best, some doctors may suggest cranberry juice to increase the acid levels in your urine, which helps to kill the bacteria. Another benefit of cranberry juice is that it prevents some bacteria from sticking to the bladder walls and so you may find that drinking it at the first sign of an infection may prevent it from becoming severe. Alcohol and coffee can irritate the bladder and cause more pain and cramping so limit your intake whilst being treated. In persons who get recurrent bladder infections, your doctor may give you a prescription for daily antibiotics to prevent infections or to take when you feel the symptoms of a bladder infection. This is especially true in persons who have an abnormality in the urinary tract. They may also have you take a single dose of an antibiotic to be taken after sexual activity. Preventing bladder infections

By Dr. Marsha Barnett changes may help: •Stay hydrated throughout the day. For most persons, this entails drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day, but consult with your doctor about the correct amount of fluid to drink if you have a medical condition such as kidney issues and remember to account for increased fluid losses on days you are outdoors or exercising vigorously. •Urinate as soon as you feel the need •Wipe from front to back after urinating if you are female •Limit your use of douches, feminine hygiene sprays, or powders •Wear cotton underwear and loosefitting clothes •Urinate before and after sexual activity

Certain lifestyle changes may reduce your chances of getting a bladder infection. The goal is to reduce *Dr. Marsha Barnett is a general the likelihood of bacteria entering the practitioner who also specialises urethra and diminishing the time in dermatology. For questions or bacteria has in the bladder to attach to comments, please contact her at the walls and multiply if it does sneak drmarshabarnett@gmail.com or its way into the bladder. If you get at Associated Medical Practices recurrent UTIs, the following lifestyle 946-4242.

RE-ADVERTISEMENT The Financial Intelligence Agency of the Turks and Caicos Islands is inviting applications for the following: APPLICATION DEADLINE: Friday 19thJune 2020 Applications not accompanied by all required supporting documents will not be processed.These are contract positions. RE-ADVERTISEMENT: The Financial Intelligence Agency of the Turks and Caicos Islands (FIA) is a key competent authority within the Anti-Money Laundering, Countering the Financing of Terrorism and Proliferation Financing (AML/CFT/PF) regime in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Its main functionsare to receive, analyse and disseminate financial information, with a view to aid in the identification and prosecution of persons involved in Money Laundering, Terrorist and Proliferation Financing and connected crimes.

will ensure the accuracy and validity of the information as well as maintain records and cases and update the computer database and other FIA databases and will create intelligence, analysis and other reports for the Director; With the emphasis on high professional standards, integrity, confidentiality, professionalism and general deportment, conduct analysis into the financial circumstances of those involved in criminal or suspected criminal activity. The post holder may be required to carry out other duties as may be required by the Director from time to time.

POSITION: LOCATION: SALARY:

Requirements and Qualifications: •Qualified as or trained as a Tactical and Strategic Analyst. – Undergraduate degree in Management Studies, Finance, Economics or Social Science discipline or a related field or at least 4 years’ experience working as an analyst in an analytical, research or investigative environment. •Experience in an intelligence/ analyst role or similar environment •Experience in the preparation, recording, presentation and explanation of quality reports for managers. •Experience in analysing complex financial transactions with a level of appreciation of various financial and non-financial services and products, their legal structures and potential connections with money laundering and terrorist financing schemes. •Advanced proficiency using Microsoft Office Suite - Word, Excel, Power Point and Access. •Must be able to maintain a professional approach within a high-pressure working environment that may present fluctuating work demands and very tight deadlines.

BUSINESS OPERATIONS OFFICER PROVIDENCIALES USD40-45,000 PER ANNUM

JOB SUMMARY: The post holder will be responsible for effective and efficient office operations of the FIA and the Board and maintenance of the Agency’s finances, with the emphasis on high professional standards, integrity, confidentiality and general conduct carry out his/her functions in accordance with TCI laws and Agency guidelines. The post holder may be required to carry out other duties as may be required within the scope of the administrative functions of the FIA. Requirements and Qualifications: •Undergraduate degree in accounting or finance OR an Associate degree in accounting or finance with at least 4 years experience in office administration or as a Senior Administrative officer. •Experience in an administrative or business operations officer. •Experience in the preparation, recording, presentation and explanation of budget, expense and accounting reports. •Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office Suite - Word, Excel, Power Point, and Access. •Knowledge of the use of accounting software and applications such as QuickBooks. POSITION: LOCATION: SALARY:

FINANCIAL INTELLIGENCE ANALYST PROVIDENCIALES USD50-58,000 PER ANNUM

JOB SUMMARY: The post holder will be responsible for receipt, analysis and dissemination of confidential information received through disclosures of financial information reported via Suspicious Activity/ Transaction Reports (SARs/STRs) related to Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing and connected crimes. The Intelligence Analyst

TO APPLY PLEASE SUBMIT: 1. Application cover letter indicating position applied for; 2. Copy of updated Curriculum Vitae including your contact details; 3. Two recent reference letters; one of which must be from a person who can speak to your professional capacity for the job; 4. Copies of relevant qualifications; 5. Copy of passport Bio page; and 6. A Police certificate of character no older than 6 months. Applications along with your CV and supporting documents are to be submitted to hr@fia.tc. Turks and Caicos Islander applicants should also forward copies of their applications to the Labour Board. The BOO position is vacant. The FIA post is held by a seconded officer from the RT&CIPF. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 15

LOCAL NEWS

A MISSED OPPORTUNITY Whilst I do commend the government for its approach, steps and protocols taken up to the period June 1st to mitigate against the spread of COVID-19, the basis for my concerns or maybe my angst, is directly relating to the Hospitality Industry in the approach to their phased reopening thereafter. Recent reports released by the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) highlight the microeconomic, socioeconomic and the overall detrimental cost of an industry that is directly responsible for 85% of the country’s GDP. Several other regional countries including US Virgin Islands, St. Lucia, Bermuda, Anguilla, and Jamaica have announced reopening of their international borders in June and all at the same time having current COVID-19 cases. From all indications, there were significant bookings with local resorts and private villa rentals for the months of June, July, and August. Therefore, I am firmly of the belief that the Turks and Caicos Islands should have opened sooner. This would have no doubt aided in helping the economy to return to some semblance of normalcy. Additionally, it simultaneously would have allowed for employees to earn some muchneeded income, as presently most

are laid off, and would be in a better financial position to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season. In my view, the announcement by government to reopen the country and allow international travel on July 22nd, 2020, was short-sighted. The country has now been on lockdown for the past 11 weeks and to date, based on the information provided by the Turks and Caicos Ministry of Health’s daily dashboard, at the highest point there were 12confirmed COVID-19 cases. We unfortunately suffered one death, one case left the country, ten recoveries and at the time of the Premier’s announcement there were no suspected cases and a seesawing of Quarantined/Isolated at Facility, Quarantined/Isolated at Home and Number of Negative Results. If we are to believe the data and information released daily by the Ministry of Health, and for the record there is no reason not to, then the decision to reopen our borders for international incoming travel/visitors to July 22nd seems counter-intuitive. Most locals, from my observations, have adopted the recommended changes relative to the wearing of masks and public social distancing, therefore the propensity to contract and/or spread the virus is less likely.

An area of national concern is the illegal migrants, which from all indications will continue to be a sore point, and even with this challenge, there is no reason not to reopen earlier. In my opinion, our strategy should have been to open the local economy including restaurants and local travel from June 1st and mandate strict capacity restrictions and social distancing as outlined by the international, regional, and local public health authorities along with implementation of a comprehensive cleaning and hygiene certification program for tourism-related businesses to reassure and safeguard our residents as well as visitors when they do return. This would allow for employers and employees in the hospitality industry, taxi and private transfer drivers, immigration, customs and TCIAA to receive meaningful and necessary on-thejob training while educating the public on the importance of the new normal relative to COVID-19. As opposed to July 22nd, June 16th should be the opening of international and regional travel, which as stated above, allows an opportunity to revive the economy. As some governments in the region, including Antigua and Barbuda and St. Lucia have implemented, requiring all visitors

By Wayne N. “Major” Garland

to show proof of a negative coronavirus test taken within 48 hours of boarding a flight, we could likewise require the same, augmented by all the other mandatory protocols for arriving visitors by TCIAA and the Ministry of Health. In my humble opinion, we are choosing fear over science. In doing so, we have not effectively: 1. Taken a proactive approach in educating our local citizenry and businesses 2. Reaffirmed confidence and trust to our much-needed international visitors and investors 3. Preemptively moved toward the early rebuilding our economy. A missed opportunity!!

operating equipment consistent with established standards; this will be achieved through planning, organizing, directing and controlling the stewarding operation and administration. •To participate along with Food and Beverage Manager in the formulation of the Annual Operating Budget in determining projected operating expenses, operating equipment requirements in the line with the compilation of the Annual Business Plan. •To ensure that the stewarding department is managed efficiently. •To ensure that the food production areas are supplied with clean and dry kitchen utensils. •To supervise night cleaning in kitchen and back-of-house food and beverage area •To ensure that back-of-house cleaning schedules and garbage runs are strictly adhered to and areas are cleaned according to the established standards. •To strictly adhere to the par stocks for all operating equipment and supplies and to ensure that the department is adequately equipped. Requirements: • Minimum 2 years stewarding supervisory experience in a luxury hotel. • Good communication skills. • Good organizational skills. • Able to lift up to 30kgs. • Familiar with Food Safety Regulations. Salary based on experience: $1500-$1800 per month plus service charge Candidates must be available to work 6 days a week, weekends, and holidays. Positions marked with * are currently held by a work permit holder. However, qualified belongers are encouraged to send a cover letter & resume with the following attachments: Valid Police Record, Passport Bio Page, Proof of TCI status i.e. PRC, Belonger Status Card or Naturalization Certificate. Human Resources Amanyara Resort Northwest Point, Providenciales E: amanyarahrassistant@aman.com Prospective applicants are also asked to send copies to the Labour Board, Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Page 16

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

LOCAL NEWS

From the Bottom to the Top Cable & Wireless/Flow – “Now we are talking” A year ago on June 7, 2019, I wrote an article entitled “Shame on you Cable & Wireless!” The reason I wrote that article was due to the fact that Cable & Wireless had no intention of hiring a Turks and Caicos Islander (TCI) as the Country Manager for its Turks and Caicos Business Unit when there were qualified locals who applied for the role. One of the applicants at that time was acting in the position for more than a year. The company submitted an application to the Labour Department for approval for an expatriate to assume that role, someone in my opinion who was less qualified than the four local applicants and the current country manager. Thankfully, the Labour Department did not approve the labour clearance. Well Done Labour Department. Ironically, a year later on June 4, 2020, Cable & Wireless announced the appointment of Ms. Joanne Missick as the country manager for TCI. This is a great milestone not just for Cable & Wireless but for the entire country as very few locals are head of positions in the private sector. A little History of Cable & Wireless managerial positions Cable & Wireless, formerly a UK based Telecommunications Company established a branch in TCI in 1898 and was one of the main private sector employers in TCI. Despite the years of experiences by locals, the managerial positions including the position of General Manager were always occupied by expatriates. It was not until the early 1980s (82 years later) that Mr. Earl Malcolm became the Human Resources Manager. Following the footsteps of Mr. Malcolm, was the late Mr. Herbie Ingham who became Manager of the Engineering Department. Then in the 1990s, Mr. Herman (Bernie) Handfield became Manager of the Switching Department. Soon thereafter, all managerial

positons were localized except for the top position. Some of the individuals that assumed managerial positons were E Jay Saunders, Clayton Been, Audley Gibbs, Delleriece Hall, Drexwell Seymour, Althea Been, Sonia Gibbs, Wilbert Harvey, Sharlene Gardiner and Lacal Palmer. It was not until 2006, 108 years later that a local assumed the top positon as the Chief Executive Officer which was yours truly Drexwell Seymour who remained in that position until 2013. In 2015, Mrs. Delleriece Hall became the second local to head Cable & Wireless. In 2020, Ms Joanne Missick became the third local to head Cable & Wireless. (Of course there were others who acted in the role such as Audley Gibbs and Lacal Palmer) Who is Joanne Missick? Joanne Missick is a proud Turks and Caicos Islander and is the daughter of the late Mr. Perry Missick and Mrs. Nina Missick. She is the mother of three daughters and two sons. She is also a grandmother of two grandsons and two granddaughters. Joanne graduated from the H. J. Robinson High School in 1983 and shortly thereafter relocated to the USA. She returned home in 1997 and in May 1999, she started her employment at Cable & Wireless as a telephone operator in May 1999. Later, Cable & Wireless outsourced the operator positons and so many employees were either made redundant or were transferred to other departments in the company. Joanne became the personal assistant to the General Manager and moved to Providenciales where she played a more integral part of the organization. She was one of the best employees that I worked with and became like family. In fact the entire staff of Cable & Wireless was like family. When one hurts, we all felt the pain. An example of this was when Joanne’s sister died. In 2007 or 2008, we were in desperate need of an account manager in the Sales

Department. The telecommunications industry in TCI was different because we were in a competitive environment. I think it was during one of our HOD meetings, Joanne was recommended and was given an opportunity to become an account manager. By Drexwell Seymour She was a successful account manager, meeting her targets and level and believe in yourself that you can putting her clients first by working do it. extremely late hours. She didn’t get pay Now when you get on the job, for working overtime, she did it because do the best and be the best so you too she was passionate about her job. can be promoted and be role model for Joanne has won a number of others. I asked Joanne what advice she awards including top performing sales would give others. Here is her advice. manager in the region for 2019. She is “Never give up and put your trust in God, also a member of the 100 Percent Elite not men. Even when you think people Club in C&W Business and you can only are not watching, do the right thing. become a member if you exceed your Integrity is vital and it protects your targets by 100% inner peace.” In 2015, Mrs. Delleriece Hall became the Country Manager and Conclusion Joanne was the acting Head of Sales. I believed at that time there was a plan There are many locals who are to bring in someone to be the Head of qualified for some of the top positions Sales but that did not materialized. Later. but they are not given an opportunity Joanne was confirmed in the position of or they are overlooked. I am not one of Head of Sales. Today, Joanne is the newly those persons that believe that locals appointed Country Manager. The saying should be given a position whether is true that “attitude determines your they qualified or not. I believe if you altitude.” are a local and you are qualified for the You see, Joanne started at the position, you should be given preference bottom of the scale at Cable & Wireless at all times. as an operator and now she is the top With that said, I want to person in the firm. recognize other locals in top positions in the private sector such as Beverly You can do it too Howell (Point Grace), Adelphine Pitters (West Bay Club), Ira Taylor (Scotia Bank), I do hope that Joanne’s story is Becky Glinton and Rudell Williams (First an inspiration for others to follow. No Caribbean Bank), Ruth Forbes and Devon matter where you are in the firm, you Cox (Fortis), Robert Hall (Provo Water can reach to the top. If you believe you Company) and Stacy Cox (TCHTA) can do the job, apply for it. Don’t ever I want to conclude this article believe you cannot make it to the top. by encouraging the employees and the Joanne never dreamt that she customers to support Joanne Missick in would one day be at the top but her her role as country manager. It can be dream however as child was to work at very lonely at the top but if you have the Cable & Wireless support of genuine people it will make Too many times we don’t apply the job much better. for positions because we fear rejection Joanne, I declare today that you or we feel that the job is secured for will do well and make the Turks and someone else. Increase your confidence Caicos proud.

Patriotism over Politics I would first and foremost like to express profound gratitude for the outpouring of support following my recent social media post. The purpose and content of the video was to vocalize both grievances and support of a fellow local businessman at this time. It is worth noting that the said video was viewed more times than our entire TCI voting population. We have become accustomed to sweeping our issues and injustices under the rug, afraid of speaking out to avoid being victimized by political henchmen, our own families, cyber bullies, and the government. But ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! Those numbers, coupled with the support received, is evidence that our community has recognized the urgency of standing up for what is right; patriotism over politics! At this time, we must become strategic and radical (if necessary) l in our thoughts and actions. Our islands and the progress

of this nation is in our hands. The future and the foundation we lay for our forthcoming generation is in our hands. We have suffered under administrations that have sold us fool’s gold. However, I believe there are persons among us, filled with passion and hope, who will do whatever it takes to move our nation to the next level. As a businessman myself, I can confirm that the local business community has been actively assisting our communities both publicly or privately and is still doing so. The notion of wanting businesses to “step up”, when they have either been closed or operating at a loss is absurd, unwarranted and uniformed. Now more than ever is the time for our greatest minds to meet and plot the way forward. Conversations and consultations with the business community is the way of ensure that the best ideas and plans are put forward to avoid further assumptions, frustrations, discord and marginalization.

These consultations should be all encompassing i.e. health, agriculture, social development/ welfare, Tourism, Education etc. We are the ones who help support the majority of families through pay. This is the same monies that return to the economy in order to keep it afloat. Our government is clearly out of touch with the communities it should be serving! While I wholeheartedly believe that there are some businesses, through meaningful and respectful dialogue can do more, however, making a blanket statement is reckless and paints an inaccurate picture of the business community on a whole. A total lack of appreciation. It is indeed a particularly sad time in our country, where the government would rather allow the economy to be oppressed before it engages in conversations with pertinent persons to formulate solutions. Collaboration is fuel for the restoration of our economy and morale of our people. Moving forward, we must

By Elery James elect persons who are sincere about eradicating the injustices of our people instead of turning a blind eye. We must elect those who are willing to work tirelessly for the betterment of our country and have compassion as opposed to persons who are merely looking forward to a parliamentary pension, that we pay. Let us choose people who embrace communication and input from those who elected them. Let us do away with loyalty to a party’s colour, and think country. As I said earlier, Patriotism Over Politics!

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 17

LOCAL NEWS

Hospitality: The New Norm Our economy has taken a drastic hit from the COVID-19 pandemic. We must not only find innovative ways to stimulate our economic recovery; we must find ways to make it stronger and more resilient. The past two to three months have forced us to adapt to a ‘new normal’. We should look for ways on which we can use this to build and strengthen our economy. The entire Caribbean region now needs to pull together the major and minor players in the tourism industry to come up with a plan for reopening. Central to all of this will be the need for testing of both guests and staff as well as the key contacts along the way at Immigration, Customs, and the ground transport operators. Whereas the major privatesector players such as hotels, attractions, and ground-transport operators can set up their testing arrangements, the governments will need to assist the smaller players with the provision of the necessary testing capacity. The other protocols regarding social distancing, the wearing of masks, and cleaning and sanitizing will also have to be applied throughout the industry, however, since food catering and room cleaning will involve significant human inputs by tourism staff, the

regular testing of staff will be a major requirement, which guests are likely to require of our tourism-service providers. TCIG needs to be very clear about what they can offer the industry and what the private sector will need to provide themselves for there to be any widespread opening of our tourism industry to visitors. A forthcoming mediumto-long-term tourism plan would be mandatory including incentive packages for businesses to “reinvent themselves”, and new forms of education to help Turks Islanders retrain and gain the skill sets needed to move into jobs in new areas. In other words, many businesses and professions catering to tourists will have to adopt a new business model involving different customers. The government ought to act now and correctly in recognizing that when tourism activity does resume, there will be a completely new way of doing business. Simply waiting for the tourism industry, especially the cruise sector, to return is not an option. Destinations around the world are assessing how they can adapt to this new reality; therefore, we should do the same. We are all in different vessels but ridding the same wave. Social distancing will be with us until a vaccine is found. That is at least 36 months away some experts say.

The health crisis will be challenging for Turks and Caicos to give the popular marketing term “sustainable tourism” actual meaning. Rebuilding tourism in Turks and Caicos from the ground up can make it fundamentally stronger if we consider all the structural weaknesses that were apparent before the pandemic. The Turks and Caicos Islands need to exploit the potential of the Blue Economy but first, we need to reckon with the cruise industry. The cruise lines as more of “a threat than an opportunity” for tourism. Cruise lines focus on extracting concessions and allowances when picking destinations that are locked in competition with each other. To further add insult to the injury, the cruise lines poor track record when it comes to air pollution and waste, with many ships still dumping their trash in the sea. Let us not forget, this first case involved a ship that was not allowed to dock in Jamaica but declared safe to land in Cayman before it also brought the disease to the Dominican Republic. It is abundantly clear that the cruise industry has not been the most reliable and truthful partner in this. No matter what anyone’s personal feelings about cruise tourism are, we must get used to the idea that it will not be around for some time. Social distancing and

Annex A

Location: Job Title:

Salt Mills Plaza, Grace Bay. Providenciales Teacher

Duties and Responsibilities 1. Plan, direct and deliver training and professional development programmes 2. Provide feedback on programs implemented to organization 3. To establish and maintain contacts and good relationships with potential clients. Education & Experience 1. BSc in relevant discipline 2. Prior experience with designing and implementing training programs successfully 3. Familiarity with traditional and modern training methods (mentoring and coaching on the job or in the classroom training, e-learning, workshops, simulations etc.) Skills & Qualities 1. Good written and verbal communication skills 2. Ability to deliver programmes to a high quality 3. Strong leadership and management kills 4. Ability to devise solutions to complex problems 5. Energy and enthusiasm to motivate and engage others 6. Personally credible and strong interpersonal skills 7. Integrity and approachability Competencies 1. Technical capacity 2. Communication proficiency 3. Leadership 4. Initiative 5. Learning orientation 6. Flexibility 7. Time management skills 8. Presentation skills 9. Fluent English Email CVs to admin@peakprofessionaltci.com

cruise shippers are simply incompatible. The new realities around travel call for a general shift away from pure volume-based mass tourism to principally qualityoriented, high-end tourism. If there was ever an opportune time to rethink our tourism product, it is now. Turks and Caicos will need to take a new direction, one that does not involve the cruise industry. The main objection to this is that Grand Turk depends on cruise tourism. The sad truth is these jobs no longer exist. While they could eventually return, we cannot wait that long. We must accept that a massive retraining program is required for all those who have lost their jobs in the tourism industry. Clinging to the old paradigm of mass cruise tourism is no longer a possibility, under the present circumstances. If we are to embrace the ‘new normal’, we must ensure we have a workforce that is prepared and willing to take up the jobs that are created in the revamped tourism industry and other fields.

JOB OPPORTUNITY

PEAK PROFESSIONAL TCI LTD. Reporting to: Executive Director

By Ranaldo Forbes

Chief Executive Officer, HAB Limited HAB Limited is a multi-disciplinary company with investments in water utilities, a golf course and various property developments in Providenciales. The Chief Executive Officer will oversee operations and investments in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI). Responsibilities will include: i.

Developing, communicating and implementing the company’s vision, mission and strategic plans ii. Providing overall strategic direction to ensure high quality performance in terms of time, quality and costs/budgets iii. Evaluating the success of the Company in setting and reaching its goals regardingrevenue and performance iv. Training and deepening the team’s expertise, and guiding the team in representing the company professionally in all dealings v. Managing a positive relationship with the government and regulators vi. Creating good community relationships that are in keeping with the Company’s corporate social responsibility agenda. vii. Growing value added services for the business. viii. Recruiting, developing, and growing a robust team for the various companies. Essential Criteria: • Minimum 10 years prior experience in successfully managing a corporate entity at executive (Board) level. Preference will be given to applicants with experience in management of water utilities. • An ability to demonstrate successful past performance of exercising balanced and pragmatic judgement; and prioritizing and delegating tasks within an environment which has multiple active work streams affecting a wide range of stakeholders. • A sound understanding of the key economic, technical and other factors influencing the development of water utilities, including the key drivers of price and quality in the short and long-term. • Proven significant experience of engaging effectively with regulators and/or the legislationto ensure obligations are understood and fulfilled. Remuneration based on experience, commencing at US$10,000.00 per month plus housing All suitably qualified applicants are requested to submit resumes/portfolios toP.O. Box 260, Regent House West, Regent Village, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands or email mslaw@tciway.tc Prospective Turks Islander applicants are also free to lodge a copy of their application with the Labour Department

Page 18

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

LOCAL NEWS

Saving our young men One of our biggest cries for the last few years and more recently since Covid-19 lockdown, is how do we get a handle on crime? It seems more frequently and regrettably so, more shootings and illegal gun activity involving our young men. Some believed that if we can get a hold of these senseless shootings, there is a very possibility we can start rebuilding trust within our communities. One of our biggest problems is with the escalating unresolved crimes and the unwillingness of persons who have access to information to fail to testify or report crime. Some questions answered are:

that

needs

1. How could we decrease the need for our youth to participate in gangs? 2. What measures do we take? 3. How can we save our youths? 4. Is incarceration the best method of punishment for non-violent crimes? As a nation, we need to start thinking about what draws our young men to gang and violence? What do gangs provide to our youth that make them want to be a part? What are we as a country not providing? It is my personal opinion that gangs give our young men a sense of safety, a sense of belonging, responsibilities, a space in which they can be heard and feel accepted. Sociologists and criminologists have studied the behaviour of young men who join gangs and have found that they long for a sense of belonging and community.

Over the years we have learned that incarceration doesn’t help. Because there are limited systems in place to reform our young men. Instead of relying solely on prison to reform our youth that are involved in violent and non-violent crimes, we have to look into other alternatives to help our young men, especially our juveniles. How can we have juveniles serving their sentences in the same space as grown adults? If we believe that prison is the best resource, then we need to tailor prison programs to meet the needs of the individuals. Our prison is designed as a “one size fits all” and this is definitely not the case prisoners all need different things. Further, I often wonder why children commit crimes? In reality, there is no simple reason, there can be a myriad of answers. However, there may be certain circumstances that can be happening at one time that can cause them to commit a crime, such as struggling with school work, being bullied at school, difficulty in family relationships which may include lack of boundaries and regular parental supervision, peer pressure and finally, struggling with their mental health. Young people face many challenges today such as attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) which many parents fail to address because no one wants to believe that something is “wrong with their child.” By ignoring this you are setting your child/children up for a road of difficulty ahead. Gangs are now becoming a fact of life here in the Turks and Caicos.

Caicos Pride Products Ltd. Location: South Caicos, Turks and Caicos Islands

Is looking for: Plant Worker/ Conch Peeler/ Lobster Processor/ Fish Processor •Cut, clean, trim and grade and pack Fish, Conch and Lobster •Prepare daily production report •Responsible for order and maintenance of Freezer •Cleaning plant equipment and performing other duties as assigned Requirements Requirements • Minimum of 1 year experience • Proficient in English •Must be self –motivated with the ability to work effectively without Supervision • Must be capable of working long and variable work for extended periods of time • Must have clean Police Clearance Salary is $6.25 per hour Others will be paid by per pound basis base on individual production Please Contact: Caicos Pride Products Ltd. At 232-3320 for further information Note: These positions are currently held by a work permit holders Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders are encouraged to apply directly and submit a copy of their application to the Immigration Board

Caicos Pride Products Ltd Location: South Caicos, Turks and Caicos Islands

Is looking for 1 Heavy Equipment Mechanic Primary Job Functions: Responsible for maintaining all heavy equipment such as front end loaders, excavators, and other mobile equipment Order parts for rolling stock, maintain and manage parts inventory Assist in developing PMs for all mobile equipment and ensuring proper maintenance is completed Interface with area planner to get mobile equipment scheduled for repair based on critically and availability Additional Requirements: •Must be able to work various shifts per week •Must have five years experience in electrical and hydraulics •Must have valid driver’s license •Be authorized and willing to work in the South Caicos, TCI •Must be 30+ years old Salary: $16,000 per annum and is commensurate with qualifications and experience Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders are encouraged to apply directly and submit a copy of their application to the Immigration Board Submit resumes to Caicos Pride Products Ltd, email: islancrops@tciway.tc Note: This position is currently held by a work permit holder

However, I do not believe it is too late to save our young men. The street violence and murder rate is sadly climbing every day. I believe that our young men want to move away from this way of life and start afresh. But the fear that comes from peer pressure when they try to no longer be active in a gang is probably not as easy as we think and without the right guidance and direction, they decide to stay in. I am confident that with the right help they can make that conscious decision to move away from that life. Even as they try to move from the stigma that may exist and gang members will continue to follow them as they try to change, it is at that stage they need all the mentoring and encouragement our country can offer them. Addressing our youth and ending gang violence should be one of the government’s top priorities. Training and educational programmes need to be put in place to assist our young men when they are released. They need to be taught how to prepare themselves to be accepted into society, whether by returning to school or into the workplace. I’m sure we have all heard the phrase “it takes a village to raise a child”. Take a look around you, we have a village. But how many of us are willing to assist in raising a child. Too many of our young men are dying at a young age leaving babies behind to be raised by their mother. We need to put an end to this saga. Are we willing to save our young men before they are all gone? To our young men please put down the guns and stop the violence. Violence is not the way out. Start by showing compassion towards each

By Vallie Musgrove -

President of PNP Women’s Branch other. Over the last few weeks, we heard everyone saying black lives matters. Does black lives only matter when it’s being taken away by the white man? Is it ok for black to continue killing black? Everyone’s life matters. Training and education programmes When a young person is released from young offenders’ institution, he or she needs to reintegrated into society by attending school or university, or finding a job. The training and education programmes provided at the end of the custodial period are intended to help them prepare for this. Our PNP Candidate for South Caicos Rev. John Malcolm has long championed and designed a program to help rehabilitate prisoners. Rev. Malcolm’s program would see these young men learn new skills, not only with their hands but also using new technology. The program as designed has already been proven to work, as evidenced by Rev. Malcolm’s previous work with the Department of Prisons.

Gun violence: Let’s have a conversation The topic of gun violence is a prevalent one in communities throughout this country. As the discourse continues, there are many questions about authentic and sustainable solutions that can work to reduce the rate of activities among youths related to the use of guns. There may be the thinking among young people that owning a gun gives them control of their security. There may also exist the saying ‘An eye for an eye,’ based on the number of incidents in recent times stemming from gun violence. As we ponder on the two schools of thought, what is certain is that each person reading this article has an opportunity to help stop gun violence. Curbing and possibly eliminating the number of persons impacted by gun violence may come through education. Social media is one of the avenues to get the discussion going on how gun violence affects lives. With the influx of more users on social media platforms due to COVID-19, it is also time to let our voices echo through on strategies that will help to achieve the goal of a safe and violence-free Turks and Caicos Islands. It is time to start the conversation that gun violence is affecting all of us. While I do not wish to highlight our young men or appear biased, I am concerned with the number of young men who were shot or killed due to gun violence amidst the social distancing and lockdown curfews.

By Nixon Dickenson In my mind, this indicates that there is a need for more in-depth conversations at all echelons of society. We need to communicate and build relationships with our young people. These are fundamental concepts if we are going to influence them to change their mindsets. Some past hurts and grudges are unresolved, and those affected have not addressed their challenges. Let us use our civic organizations to empower our young people through education and provide the catalysis for them to work on building relationships and healing old wounds. We must seek to provide opportunities through our civic groups where our youths can model and promote positive behavior. Let’s take the conversation on a national level that gun violence is not the answer. Let us seek to find the answers by listening to the voices of those who are affected, our youths.

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 19

LOCAL NEWS

The life and contributions of The Rev. Dr. Livingstone Rudolph Malcolm Methodist Minister – Counsellor – Scholar – Encourager The Methodist Community in the Bahamas, Turks & Caicos Islands Conference mourns the passing of the Rv. Dr. Livingstone Malcolm. Born in Nassau, The Bahamas on August 16th. 1949 to Walter Malcolm and Marjorie Wilson-Grant. He enjoyed a long and eventful career as a Minister of The Holy Gospel and his Ministry spanned over four decades, during which he served the Church and Community the Bahamas & the Turks & Caicos Islands, and indeed throughout the Caribbean Region. Growing up in the Grants Town Community in New Providence, young Livingstone (affectionately known as “Winkie”), received his early education in the Ministry of Education Schools. His dream was to pursue his studies at a private high school, and through the kindness and generosity of the Hon. George Smith, he was able to attend Queens College, a Methodist Foundation. He applied himself to his studies with great diligence and dedication to excellence. From early in life, it seems that Livingstone Malcolm was destined to become a Minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Being very active young member in Wesley Church, he served as Sunday-School teacher, Choir member, Wesley Guild Leader, eventually becoming a Fully Accredited Local Preacher. He was also a member of the Boys’ Brigade Company, under the influence of the outstanding mentor of many Bahamian young men, Captain Simpson Penn, whom he credits as having great influence on his decision to become a Methodist Minister, having had to go through the virtues of discipline, industry, and bible study, as characterized in the Boys’ Brigade Movement. Also prominent among those who greatly encouraged him for Ministry was the Rev. Dr. Kenneth Huggins. Interesting enough, several Methodist Ministers, including Joseph Emmette Weir, Colin Archer, Charles Carey and Cecil Newbold, were nurtured in the Cristian Faith at the Historic Wesley Methodist Church in Grants Town. In 1973, he offered and was accepted as a Candidate for the Ordained Ministry of the Methodist Church in the Caribbean & the Americas. After a year of pre-collegiate service in St. Ann’s District in Jamaica, he embarked upon his Ministerial Studies at the United Theological College of the West Indies, Kingston Jamaica. As a Minister-In-Training, Livingstone Malcolm again took his studies seriously and graduated in 1978, having earned a Diploma in Ministerial Studies. Multi-talented, he was very active in the UTCWI Choir as a drummer, and was also a member of the Drama Group. Largely through his initiative, both groups to visit the Bahamas. He also published two volumes of poems – “Reminiscences in Poetry” and “A taste of Salt.” It was while studying at

UTCWI that he met the “love of his life”, Miss Lettice Martin, a young third-year student and an accomplished musician from Antigua and Barbuda. They established a relationship which rapidly blossomed, thus it was not surprisingly that they were joined in Holy Matrimony in June 1978. With her calm, confident personality, ability as an education and talented musician, Lettice was endowed with “gifts & graces” which enhanced the ministry of her husband. Their union produced two well qualified young people. Lamont, a Psycho-therapist, resides with his wife, Ophetta and son, Braynen, in Oklahoma, USA. Providentially, he was “in place” to provide accommodation for his father when he was in the United States for medical care. Their daughter, Louise, is an Attorney-at-Law and resides in Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands with her husband, Curtis, and their son, Aaron. The Rev’d. Livingstone Malcolm spent the early years of his Pastoral Ministry in the South Caribbean District, beginning in St. Vincent Circuit, then moving to the South Trinidad Circuit, where he was Superintendent Minister. He also served as District Secretary for Men’s work and the Ministerial Training Committee. Completing his tenure in the South Caribbean District Conference in 1986. Following the South Caribbean, Rev. Malcolm served in the Leeward Islands, Dominica, Nevis, Holland and St. Martin/ Maarten Circuits. He served with diligence in various capacities, and confidence in his leadership was such, that he was appointed to serve as District Chairman / President in 1992. He served with credibility and creativity in this highly responsible Ecclesiastical Post until 1997. Returning to his home region, the Rev’d. Dr. Malcolm made history by becoming the first President of the new Bahamas, Turks &Caicos Islands Conference in 1996. Assigned in Freeport, Grand Bahama, he also served as the Superintendent of the Grand Bahama Circuit. He continued to serve at the helm of the Methodist Church in the Bahamas, Turks & Caicos Islands Conference until 2000. Appropriately described as a “Bahamian/Turks Islander”, Rev. Malcolm embarked upon a new milestone in his Ministry in the Turks & Caicos Islands, being granted permission to serve Organizations external to the Methodist Church, he became the Director of Immigration from 2000 –2001 in the Turks & Caicos Islands. Subsequently, he was employed as an Executive at a tourist resort. The appointment in Government and the private sectors proved useful in providing him with innovative and valuable insight on “ways and means”, whereby the Church could benefit and fulfil its mission in a more efficient and business-like manner. Rev. Malcolm was always

a keen scholar. As a theological student, he had benefited from the in-depth thrust in Christian Education gained at the summer programme offered in the USA at Philips University, Oklahoma and Indiana (1977). During the period served in the South Trinidad Circuit, he completed the UWI Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theology and Psychology (1981). He was at the time carrying out duties as Chaplain to the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine campus, Trinidad (19801981). He received an invitation from the Presbyterian Church in Trinidad and Grenada to teach weekend classes at the St. Andrew’s Theological College in San Fernando. He lectured there in Theological Ethics (1980-1985). In the summer of 1985 he enrolled in the summer programme on Baptism. Eucharist and Ministry, offered at Bossey Institute in Switzerland. Following this, he pursued studies at Christian Theological Seminary in the USA which gained him the degree of Master of Sacred Theology (STM) in Ethics and Liberation Theology (1986). Postgraduate studies always excited Rev. Malcolm. He pursued research on Theological Signs and Symbols in West Indian Literature to gain the Master of Philosophy (MPhil.) degree in Caribbean and Liberation Theology from the University of the West Indies (1992). While serving in Jamaica, he lectured part-time in Biblical Studies (Old Testament Prophets and Introduction to the New Testament) at the United Theological College of the West Indies (2004- 2009). His crowning academic achievement was to have received from the South African Theological Seminary the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Theology, New Testament Studies (2013). His doctoral thesis was based on Human Development in Saint Matthew. It is expected that a book based on his Doctoral Thesis would be published. Rev. Dr. Livingstone Rudolph Malcolm was a man of varied gifts. As an administrator, not only did he function denominationally, but he rendered effective service on the ecumenical stage. While in his first ministerial appointment in St. Vincent, he was Projects Officer for the Christian Council. While in the Leeward Islands District he was President of the Christian Council in both Dominica and Nevis. He served for four years as Senior Programme Officer /Regional Manager for the Jamaica Office of the Caribbean Conference of Churches (2005-2009). During his later years, he combined gifts in ministry and skills in Social Psychology by ministering in the Nassau Circuit and formally serving in the context of a Counseling Clinic. A most profound saying of the later Rev. Reuben Cooper, Sr., that great Bahamian Preacher/ Educator, was “If life is worth living, it should be lived at its best!” Well, it can be truly said of the Rev. Dr.

Rev. Dr. Livingstone Rudolph Malcolm

Livingstone Malcolm that he lived life at its best, as he had an enthusiastic approach in all endeavours, which was amazingly infectious. Endowed with a rich measure of what the old Methodists declare as “the saving grace of humour”, he always saw the bright side in any situation, no matter how hopeless it appeared to be. As a Preacher, he proved to be very effective & diligent in expounding the texts of the Bible, inevitably maintaining the rapt attention of the congregations. Throughout his Ministry he an intense interest in “equipping the Saints for the work of the Ministry. Significantly, the Rev. George Mulrain, a former President of the Methodist Church in The Caribbean and The Americas, has pointed out that he has distinction of being the only MCCA Minister during whose tenure at least thirty people acknowledged and offered themselves in response to being “called” and eventually ordained to full-time Ministry. During the senior years of his productive life, Rev. Livingstone Malcolm encountered several major challenges to his health. Accordingly, in November 2019 he went to the United States to seek medical attention. He endured a series of medical procedures and throughout this ordeal, he never lost his enthusiasm for life, which he celebrated to the fullest. More profoundly, he remained positive and faithful to the end of his earthly sojourn, sincerely trusting in God, whatever the Divine Plan for his life would turn out to be. Rev. Dr. Livingstone Rudolph Malcolm, a beloved friend, brother, husband, father, grandfather, minister and counselor and encourager, was called home to glory on the morning of Tuesday 21st April 2020. He died in the seventy-first year of his life and the forty-fourth year of his ministry. May his soul rest in peace and light perpetual shine upon him! He really lived life at its best in accord with the exhortation of the Master, Jesus of Nazareth.” “Herein in my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be my disciples” (John 15:8)

Page 20

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

The TCIAA is accepting applications for the following position:

Post: DIRECTOR OF METEOROLOGY Purpose of Job The Director, Meteorology is the functional Head of the Department. He/ she is responsible for the overall technical, administrative and financial management of the Department. The incumbent is a career Professional appointed through a competitive process and is responsible for providing leadership and vision for achieving goals of the Department. He/she shall be responsible for providing technical and professional support to the CEO OBJECTIVES OF THE JOB INCLUDES •Coordinating the provision of meteorological services, weather forecasts, warnings and other information, for the needs of stakeholders •Provide effective leadership, enabling the Department to improve performance of its functions and achieve set results •Provide accurate and timely reporting on progress of implementation of meteorology policies, strategies and Programmes •Obtain and maintain Civil Aviation Regulatory compliance DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The functions of Director, Meteorology will be: 1.To operate a network of meteorological stations for the collection of data required for application purposes 2.To oversee the issue of regular weather of forecasts and dissemination of these forecasts through the mass information media 3.To manage the production of meteorological services, weather forecasts, warnings and other information, for the needs of the Turks and Caicos Islands 4.To publicize meteorological data to all stakeholders. 6.To interpret, review and recommend appropriate changes in the climate and weather policies; 7.To promote, guide and coordinate the implementation of policies and programmes 8.To establish early agriculture warning systems and ensure risk identification, reduction and transfer 9.To ensure effective weather warning system by extending the lead time of warnings, improving the accuracy of warnings, greater demand for probabilistic forecasts, better communication and dissemination of warnings, use of new techniques to alert the public, targeting of the warning services to relevant and specific users and that warning messages are understood and the appropriate action taken in response 10.To coordinate the preparation and implementation of department five - year strategic and operational plans and attendant annual work plans 11.To coordinate the policy planning, analysis, formulation and delivery and tracking for the department 12.To ensure that policy decisions and other measures of the department are implemented efficiently and effectively 13.To lead the decision-making process in economic and social matters, based on professional analyses of existing trends, current data and methodical, long- term thinking, in collaboration with Department of Disaster Management (DDME) 14.To coordinate the preparation of annual financial estimates in consultation with the heads of sections and human resources function 15.To coordinate the department human capacity building in consultation with the heads of sections and human resources function 16.To coordinate the management of staff performance and contracts in the department 17.To hold regular meetings with the heads of sections to discuss financial, human development, procurement and operational issues 18.Represent the Turks and Caicos Islands as requested, at local, regional, international conference and seminars on meteorology 21. Coordinating the preparation of quarterly and annual progress reports

DELIVERABLES The Director of Meteorology will be responsible for the production of the following deliverables: •Meteorology programmes and work plans •The 5-year strategic and operational plans for the department •Strategic management and overall administration of the Department •Report on support to the Department of Disaster Management •Monitoring and evaluation report on the implementation of Department of Disaster Management decisions •Issue progress reports on the implementation of department decisions/resolutions •Improved department documentation and records management system •Annual progress reports Requirements The following are required of candidates. •A minimum of 1st Degree in Meteorology, or related discipline from a recognized University or equivalent professional qualification. •Diploma in Geo-spatial Data base Management using (GIS, GPS and Remote sensing) •Minimum of a background in Computer Science •Four years’ experience, two (2) of which must have been at the senior management level in the public service Skills Mix Requirements •Governance •Change management •Leadership and development •Problem-solving techniques •Blend of analytical, observational, organisational networking skills •Strategic planning and benchmarking •Project management •Performance measurement •Team building and management •Monitoring and evaluation •ICT skills •Report writing •Excellent oral and written English language

and

Competency Requirements •Gives objective advice based on sound analysis •Focuses on outcomes •Gives purpose and direction •Thinks strategically •Involves people in decision-making •Communicates effectively •Demonstrates commitment to organisation/ corporate decisions •Displays an intelligent awareness of the political environment •Prepares plans with clear short- and long-term objectives •Functions effectively in a team of professionals Working Environment/Conditions Office based, frequent travel to the field is highly predictable, and sometimes domestic/international travel may be required. Salary: - Commensurate to successful candidate qualifications and experience. Salary Range: $60,000 - $75,000 Interest persons must submit their applications before June, 12, 2020 to: First Preference to Belongers Human Resources Department Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority Providenciales International Airport Telephone# 649-946-4420, Fax# 9415996. Email: hrrecruitment@ tciairports.com

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 21

FOOD DISTRIBUTION

To support the Turks & Caicos Islands Community during urgent times of need. Island Bargains and Meridian Trust

SATURDAY JUNE 20, 2020 9:00 AM LOCATIONS • Harvest Bible Chapel - Long Bay • Paradise Baptist Church - Five Cays • Power Tabernacle – The Bight • God’s Instrument Ministry - Blue Hills • Police Department – Kew Town

• Please stay in your vehicle to limit exposure. Groceries will be placed in your trunk. • Guests without vehicles are welcome to walk up, while maintaining six feet of social distancing and wearing a mask. You should be prepared to carry 20-30 pounds or have a cart.

will be hosting a

FREE Drive-Thru Food Distribution at five locations in Providenciales.

• Food will be distributed first come, first served. • Limited to the first 300 participants at each location. • Each family will receive two bags of food.

ANYONE IN NEED OF FOOD IS WELCOME! For information or to volunteer, please contact Stanley Bassett at Stanley@islandbargains.com

SPONSORED BY

Page 22

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

in wood, cardboard, PVC, etc. Assemble, disassemble and repair hydraulic locking arms, locks, boards, doors, furniture, wooden shelves. Prepare special carving and woodwork on a daily bases for room refurbishment.

RECRUITMENT New Positions for upcoming Season – November 1, 2020 •Head Maître D •Dining Outlets Manager •Resort Facility Manager •Breakfast Supervisor •Housekeeping Supervisor •Housekeeping Attendants •Exec Sous Chef •House Mixologist •Kitchen Steward Salary/wages for all positions negotiable based on knowledge and experiences. Must have outstanding references and only Belongers need to apply. All managerial positions will require the individual to work long hours/ public holidays, weekends and all weather conditions. Managers are required to be on call /contactable 24/7 and willing to work up to 72hrs in any given week if needed. Must have great verbal and written communication skills (English Proficiency is a must). Working knowledge of computers and Microsoft office suite with proficiency in excel and word. Must be willing to cross train in other areas of the Resort. SPA THERAPISTS We are looking for a qualified Spa Therapist to provide professional and engaging wellness therapies and massage treatments to our clients. You will offer a full range of treatments to fulfill different client needs and objectives. Duties and Requirements: •5 years’ experience as a therapist and relevant degree or equivalent combination of experience and education. •Knowledge of holistic concepts and treatments including facials, full body treatments, massages, waxing, physiotherapy, and manicures and pedicures. Must be skilled in Gel and Acrylic nail techniques. •Enthusiastic demeanor with excellent customer service skills •Must be able to work long hours and split shift. Salary $6.31 per hour (plus commission) - Position currently held by a work permit holder. RESORT BUTLER The Resort Butler will look after the general request of our VIP guests by liaising with relevant colleagues and departments to actively respond to their needs. The Resort Butler reports directly to the Resort Manager. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES •Anticipate guest needs and expectations correctly, including those with special needs, and provide appropriate products, services or information. •Recognize customer dissatisfaction promptly and take action to resolve the situation according to individual level of responsibility and guest feedback/ complaint procedures. •Offer assistance to colleagues when required, to ensure designated work goals are met. •Seek assistance from other team members, supervisors and managers when required. •Assist housekeeping and F&B with the set up preparation of guest areas •Maintaining an open-line of communication with F&B, Front Office and housekeeping colleagues. •Accurately take and communicate orders to F&B colleagues for service. •Maintain good knowledge of Beach Bar menu to answer questions the guests may have. •Knowledgeable of all in-house services as well as local information and be able to assist guests when questioned. REQUIREMENTS: •Demonstrate a sound knowledge of all menu items and Hygiene Standards •F&B, Housekeeping& Pool & Beach Attendant experience •Must be able to work in all weather conditionsand able to work long hours in the sun •Position requires the individual to work weekends and holidays •Must be physically fit •Must be available to guest 24/7 meeting their needs Salary USD15,000 per annum and is based on experience – Position currently held by a work permit holder Woodwork Specialist/tradesman/Carpenter Candidate will be responsible for furniture repairs and rebuilds various objects

Requirements: •At least 5 years of related work experience •Must understand detailed architectural drawings, schematics, shop drawings and blue prints. •Excellent understanding of carpentry techniques and methods of installation and construction •Must have experience operating equipment such as saws, routers, drills and sanders •Must have basic mathematical skills •Ability to determine measurements and attention to detail •Physical ability to lift up to 100lbs, walk, jump and bend •Organizing and leadership skills •Must be able to create unique furniture and fixtures to meet the needs of the resort Wages $7 to $10 per hour - Position currently held by a work permit holder RECREATION MANAGER Oversee the effective and efficient operation of Pool & Beach, Tennis and Water Sports Services in accordance with the objectives, performance and quality standards established by the resort. To plan, organize, and motivate all colleagues to excel in delivering quality experiences to all guests. Duties and Responsibilities •Directs day-to-day activities of the Fitness Centre, Tennis, Water Sports Pool & Beach and in house Boat Excursions. Ensures smooth, efficient and safe operations. •Defines recreation standards, service, cleanliness, safety and ensures adherence to these. •Regularly inspects all recreational facilities and equipment to ensure all are adequately maintained, safe and ready for use. •Ensures proper usage of all equipment by training the staff and assisting the guests. •Plans, develops and carries out recreation programs, including researching and creating programs, analyzing recreational needs and scheduling activities. •Identifies and develops new service and equipment to enhance the product quality and meet the current and future needs. •Control the stock of equipment’s in all the outlets of the Recreation Department with monthly inventory system. •Responsible for preparing and administering assigned program budgets; submits budget recommendations; monitor expenditures and revenues. •Ensures that all services offered in the Recreation Department are always available and carried out with outmost efficiency and courtesy. •Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, members and guests. •Supervises, evaluates, and ensures trainings/ career development plans of subordinates. •Drive revenues of the department through upselling and cross selling •Recommends changes in methods, equipment on staff to improve departmental standards and productivity. •Constantly monitors key performance indicators for the department and take corrective action. •Maintain records and prepare reports. •Deal tactfully and diplomatically with members and guests regarding rules, regulations, policies and procedures. •Promote the events and other recreational activities to the members and general public through new letter and public relation in coordination with membership, Sales & Marketing or other Departments for all operational and guest related matters. •Keeps the Resort Manager promptly and fully informed of all problems or unusual matters of significance. •Performs other related duties as assigned or requested Requirements •Skills & abilities (required technical/functional skills) •Qualified swimmer •Must have 4 to 5 years Hotel Supervisory or Managerial experience •Working knowledge computers and Microsoft office suite with proficiency in excel and word •Good health, well-groomed and with high standard of personal appearance and hygiene at all times •Physically strong, energetic and dynamic person with a positive and motivated attitude and exercise self-control •Self-motivated, hard-working, sensible, able to work under pressure, pleasant, responsible, independent, initiative, outgoing personality and ability to communicate with people at all levels •Knowledge of emergency procedures, First Aid and CPR •Knowledge of the management and operation of recreation facilities and equipment •Understanding of coaching theory and practice Salary USD40, 000 per annum and is based on experience and Qualifications

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 Human Resources Department. Prospective applicants who are Islanders kindly send copies of your application to the board. Application deadline: June 20, 2020

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 23

Chukka Caribbean Adventures (TCI) Ltd is about playtime! It’s about fun, laughter and a passion for life. Every single member of the CHUKKA team in Jamaica, Belize and Turks & Caicos contributes to helping their guests play; they get to wow them at every turn with all that the Caribbean has to offer.

Chukka is always looking for new talent to add to our dynamic team. All successful applicants must: •Be at least 21 years old. •Be well spoken in English. •Possess excellent interpersonal &written communication skills. •Trustworthy & Reliable disposition with a clean criminal record. •Positive & disciplined work attitude in a customer service oriented business. •Must be willing and able to work flexible hours, including weekends, public holidays as necessary to meet the challenging needs of cruise ship schedules and/or reasonable needs of the business. See below opportunities currently available in GRAND TURK: BOAT CAPTAIN •Manage day to day operations of the tour including maintenance and efficient use of Human Resources •Manage the daily operational needs inclusive of tour needs, client needs •Ensure that the team is motivated, empowered and performing at an optimal level Minimum Requirements: •Valid Masters License (STCW Grades 1-5) or Yacht masters license (RYCA or equivalent) •At least 5 year experience working in the Cruise Industry with emphasis on snorkeling and other water based tours. •Must be trained and certified in Lifeguard Rescue, CPR and First Aid •Full knowledge of man over board procedures, fire at sea, abandon ship and all related safety drills and procedure. •Knowledge of maintenance and upkeep of outboard engines and inboard engines •Knowledge of basic navigation and Rules of the Road is an asset. Reports to: Operations Manager Compensation package: •$8.50 per hour, paid fortnightly Role currently held by work permit holder LIFEGUARD/BOAT CREW •Good verbal and written communication skills •Ability to work under pressure •Ability to use initiative •Provide clients with accurate tour information •Ensure clients adhere to safety guidelines •Efficiently dispatch clients as per the tour in which one is a part of •Work with other crew members to ensure sanitation of vessel is maintained •Work with other team members to ensure the vessel is adequately prepared for tour execution Minimum Requirements: •Have a minimum of 3 years experience working on boats as a lifeguard or boat crew •Have training or certificate in Lifeguard/CPR •Enjoy marine environment and have a passion for people •Must be punctual and have an excellent attendance track record •Flexibility as a team player Reports to: Boat Captain/Team Lead Compensation package: •$6.25 per hour, paid fortnightly Role currently held by work permit holder

BEACH ATTENDANT •Mount beach umbrellas and cushions on beach chairs on the beach •Attend to guest’s food and bar needs. •Keep beach free of debris before during and after business hours. •Ensure trash receptacles are emptied frequently and surrounding areas kept sanitary •Beach shower areas are kept clear from any obstacles •Assist with any heavy lifting and movement of equipment or supplies needed for operational functionality •Ensure sand is combed each day. Minimum Requirements: •Punctual •Willing and able to work in a face paced service environment •Posses an outgoing and pleasant personality •Exercise flexibility in being able to be of assistance in wherever areas needed. Reports to: On-Property Revenue Manager Compensation package: •$6.25 per hour, paid fortnightly •Role currently held by work permit holder SENIOR CAPTAIN OF OPERATIONS •Ability to train and guide Captains and crew in marine best practices. •Create and update Standard Operating Procedures for tours •Create and update Risk Assessment data for tours •Conduct safety training for all tours •Develop and maintain medical screening processes for all tours •Tour flow management for all aqua related tours Minimum Requirements: •Minimum age 35 years •Valid Masters License (STCW Grades 1) or Yacht masters license (RYCA or equivalent) •At least 10year experience working in the Cruise Industry with emphasis on snorkeling and other water-based tours. •Must be trained and certified in Lifeguard Rescue, CPR and First Aid •Full knowledge of man over board procedures, fire at sea, abandon ship and all related safety drills and procedure. •Knowledge of maintenance and upkeep of outboard engines and inboard engines •Knowledge of basic navigation and Rules of the Road is an asset. •Ability to work under pressure Reports to: Country Manager Compensation package: •$3296.00 per month Role currently held by work permit holder Turks and Caicos Islanders applications will be given preference Deadline for submissions is June 30, 2020 Applications along with CVs/ Resume’ may be submitted via Email to: gtadmin@chukka.com, please place the desired position in the subject line or deliver to the below address: CHUKKA HUMAN RESOURCES CHUKKA CARIBBEAN ADVENTURES (TCI) LTD South Base Lyndon Gardiner Boulevard Grand Turk, TCI

Page 24

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

MANAGE YOUR ENERGY USE AT HOME

The coronavirus pandemic means that many of us will be spending more time at home, and working remotely. And with schools closed and students taking online classes, this extra time at home could mean an increase in energy usage, and added costs to our electricity bills. But that doesn’t have to be the case. FortisTCI encourages you to practice energy conservation as much as possible.

• Turn off electronic devices when not in use. • Plug devices into a power strip with an on/off button and remember to switch it off when not in use. • Larger electronic devices like televisions consume a lot of energy, so turn them off when they are not in use and look for Energy Star models when replacing a unit.

Monitor your daily usage with the My Online Account web portal. Sign up at www.fortistci.com, where you can also find more energy-saving tips.

THE POWER IS IN YOUR HANDS.

2017 Winner

Allied Member of the Year

BCMS 681102

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

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

GRAND TURK Chukka Caribbean Adventures (TCI) Ltd is about playtime! It’s about fun, laughter and a passion for life. Every single member of the CHUKKA team in Jamaica, Belize and Turks & Caicos contributes to helping their guests play; they get to wow them at every turn with all that the Caribbean has to offer.

CRUISE OPERATIONS MANAGER Maintain strategic relationships with the cruise partners, in an effort to provide up close and personalized service. The main objective being driving sales to the profitable tours, achieve sales targets and to consistently identify opportunities for sales growth. Duties and Responsibilities: •Meet and exceed pax per call year over year and in relation to the target. •Focus on pushing sales for the profitable tours and therefore consistently identify initiatives to push sales. •Respond to cruise complaints and issues within 24 hours. •Organize familiarizations trips for cruise members to include Shorex Managers, Cruise Directors and Captains and other employees of influence. All key cruise members must be consistently familiarized on new tour offerings improvements etc, •Prepare weekly reports to track success of familiarizations trips. Use numbers to indicate the success or failure of these trips. •Ensure that our POS material is well presented on board at all times. Such as brochures and pull up banners. •Consistently organize training programs or sales collaterals for crew members or shorex managers that are new or

PROVO WATER COMPANY LTD. Provo Water Company Ltd is seeking a suitable applicant to fill the following position. POSITION:PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE ENGINEER QUALIFICATION: 1.Must be a graduate of Civil or Mechanical Engineering with at least 5 years of continuous professional work experience under the same capacity. 2.Must have at least 2year minimum experience in water line maintenanceunder a water utility company setting. 3.Knowledgeable on the principles of hydraulic engineering related to water supply and water distribution. 4.Well verse on engineering mathematics and economics. 5.Familiar with Construction methods, materials and equipment. 6.Knows how to apply the principles and methods of statistical analysis. 7.Must be computer literate. JOB DESCRIPTION: The Preventive Maintenance Engineer plays a vital role in keeping the integrityand efficiency of PWC’s water distribution system. Application of scientific and methodological process in dealing with the existing line problem is the main concentration while subduing the new ones in occurrence before becoming PWC’s major concern. The responsibilities and tasks of the Preventive Maintenance Engineer may vary from role to roledepending on the call of the situation. Under the technical setting, one must be flexible and mustengage in multi-tasking to ensure immediate application of required corrective actions. Following is the PM Engineer’s job description which includes: •Applying knowledge of civil engineering under the preventive maintenance setting of a water distribution system which includes pipeline positioning, hydraulic analysis, structural design and control systems. •Development of preventive maintenance database, including data input, monitors, audits and maintains the accuracy of the PM data base system at all times. •Designing preventive maintenance strategies, procedures and application methods; •Planning and scheduling planned and unplanned maintenance work;

Page 25

needs to be re-familiarized. •Provide a report to the Country Manager as it relates to the aesthetics, uniforms, operations, standards etc. Minimum Requirements: •Associate/First Degree in Management •Computer literacy •May occasionally be required to work beyond normal hours •Good administrative management skills •Business acumen •Mental fortitude •Ability to use imitative •Ability to handle complaints •Good oral and written communications skills •Effective planning and execution •Confidence in public speaking Reports to: Country Manager Compensation Package: Between $2500-$3000 per month or according to experience and proven track record Role currently held by work permit holder Turks and Caicos Islanders applications will be given preference

Deadline for submissions is June 30, 2020 Applications along with CVs/ Resume’ may be submitted via Email to: gtadmin@chukka.com, please place the desired position in the subject line or deliver to the below address: CHUKKA HUMAN RESOURCES CHUKKA CARIBBEAN ADVENTURES (TCI) LTD South Base, Lyndon Gardiner Boulevard

•Carrying out quality inspections on the main distribution system and formulate technical recommendation for system’s enhancement; •Diagnosing breakdown problems in the distribution line and provide technical assistance for the application of corrective action; •Anticipating technical problems and developing solutionsfor recommendation at an early stage; •Arranging procurement requisition of needed fixtures, fittings or components for a specialized problem in the water main; •Communicates with preventive maintenance program vendor’s technical support staff regarding software upgrades, needed program modifications, and technical issues; •Maintaining infrastructure master plan and mapping database of all accomplished preventive maintenance task; •Oversees data input in CMMS and Asset Management software; •Provides technical and administrative support to engineering works and field operations as required; •Assists in the integration of maintenance software with GIS, GPS, CMMS, AutoCAD, Hydraulic Modeling Software, financial inventory and utility billing/customer databases; •Develops, produces and assists in generating regular and special preventive maintenance system reports; •Researches, gathers data, analyzes and documents PWC’s needs to automate current processes in addressing problem areas and improve existing workflow within preventive maintenance system; •Provides technical assistance in the operation, configuration, diagnostics, and troubleshooting of preventive maintenance program; •Develops and maintains Standard Operating Procedures for preventive maintenance task; •Directs implementation and procedural modifications in the preventive maintenance function; •Formulates and coordinates the implementation of Provo Water’s asset management plan; •Prepares monthly Preventive Maintenance report and maintains records and documents in accordance with PWC policy. Salary Range:

US$ 36, 000 – 48, 000 per annum

All applications (inclusive of cover letter, CV & copies of qualifications) must be submitted by June 19th, 2020to: Managing Director Provo Water Company Limited Grace Bay Road, PO Box 39 Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands Recruitment@provowater.tc Only applicants selected for an interview will be notified.

Page 26

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

Protests spotlight racial J

ust like coronavirus, racism pays no attention to borders. Across the world, people representing a broad spectrum of society have marched as one to protest racial injustice and police brutality at home and abroad. Despite the risks posed by possibly the biggest public health hazard in a century, they still put their marching boots on and geared up for a long day of chanting. They sought not just to show solidarity with protesters

across the United States following the shocking police killing being restrained by five guards. of George Floyd in Minneapolis but also to shine a spotlight on “Same story, different soil,” read the inequalities that scar their own nations. On May 25, Floyd, In Britain, the world’s m a black man, died handcuffed on the ground saying “I can’t past, many demonstrators clear breathe” as a white policeman pushed his knee to his neck. happened with Floyd and their In Australia, tens of thousands highlighted the and authorities. In the 1600s a country’s long mistreatment of Aboriginal people, notably of cities grew wealthy transportin David Dungay, who died in a prison hospital in 2015 while Sunday in Bristol, southwest E

A demonstrator clenches his fist during a Black Lives Matter rally in Parliament Square in London, Saturday, June 6, 2020, as people protest against the killing of George Floyd by police officers in Minneapolis, USA.

A girl wears a face mask during a Black Lives Matter rally in Parliament Square, in London, Saturday, June 6, 2020, as they protest against the killing of George Floyd by police officers in Minneapolis, USA.

A protester holds a placard at the window building during the Black Lives Matter p 2020.

A Protester holds a white rose as he stands among placards during the Black Lives Matter protest rally in Brussels, Sunday, June 7, 2020.

A protester stands in front of the US embassy during the Black Lives Matter protest rally in London, Sunday, June 7, 2020

A woman gestures after climbing on the Square during a Black Lives Matter r Saturday, June 6, 2020, as people prote police officers in Minneapolis, USA.

A mural by street artist Jorit, honoring George Floyd, who died May 25 after being restrained by police in Minneapolis, USA, depicts from left, Lenin, Martin Luther King, George Floyd, Malcom X and Angela Davis, atop the roof of a building in Naples, southern Italy, Saturday, June 6, 2020.

An Aboriginal man performs a smoking ceremony as protesters gather in Sydney, Saturday, June 6, 2020, to support the movement of U.S. protests over the death of George Floyd.

Anti-racism demonstrators take a knee n a march on Saturday, June 6, 2020, pro died May 25 after being restrained by po

Demonstrators kneel facing police officers after scuffles during a Black Lives Matter march in London, Saturday, June 6, 2020, as people protest against the killing of George Floyd by police officers in Minneapolis, USA.

A young woman wears a facemark as people gather at the Alexander Platz in Berlin, Germany, Saturday, June 6, 2020, to protest against the recent killing of George Floyd by police officers in Minneapolis, USA, that has led to protests in many countries and across the US.

Hundreds of demonstrators gather on the seen in the background during a demons 6, 2020, to protest against the recent kil

People gather during a demonstration in Frankfurt, Germany, Saturday, June 6, 2020 calling for justice for George Floyd, who died May 25 after being restrained by police in Minneapolis.

People gather in Barcelona, Spain, Sunday, June 7, 2020, during a demonstration over the death of George Floyd, a black man who died after being restrained by Minneapolis police officers on May 25.

People gather to protest during a solida Saturday, June 6, 2020, in Tokyo

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 27

scars around the world

d one banner. melting pot due to its imperial rly saw parallels between what experiences with British police and 1700s, several British port ng slaves to the Americas. On England, protesters tore down

a statute of a slave trader whose company used to brand its victims with the company’s initials on their chests. In the last decade, the British government has been called out for its appalling treatment of British Caribbean citizens who came north to rebuild the country after World War II. In the last few months, despite having a National Health Service that is free for all, people from minority groups in Britain face a higher risk of dying from coronavirus than their

white counterparts. “There’s a lot of frustration due to racial discrimination. And we want change for our children and our children’s children, to be able to have equality within the U.K, the U.S., all around the world,” said Andrew Francis, a 37-year-old black man from London. Across France, people defied police protest bans due to coronavirus concerns to express the depth of their convictions.

A protester holds a sign that reads “kill, it is being filmed” in Marseille, southern France, Saturday, June 6, 2020, to protest against the death of George Floyd, who died after he was restrained by police officers May 25 in Minneapolis, that has led to global protests.

w of Foreign and Commonwealth Office protest rally in London, Sunday, June 7,

e Abraham Lincon statue in Parliament rally in Parliament Square in London, est against the killing of George Floyd by

A protester holds a placard in front of the US embassy, during the Black Lives Matter protest rally in London, Sunday, June 7, 2020.

A man raises his fist as people gather in Berlin, Germany, Saturday, June 6, 2020, to protest against the recent killing of George Floyd by police officers in Minneapolis, USA, that has led to protests in many countries and across the US.

near Toronto Police Headquarters during otesting the death of George Floyd, who olice in Minneapolis.

A woman takes a picture during a demonstration in Paris, France, Saturday, June 6, 2020, when protesting against the recent killing of George Floyd.

Black Lives Matter is projected onto the Houses of Parliament, in London, Friday, June 5, 2020, as part of the ongoing worldwide demonstrations following the death of George Floyd.

e Champs de Mars as the Eiffel Tower is stration in Paris, France, Saturday, June lling of George Floyd.

People demonstrate in Lyon, central France, Saturday, June 6, 2020, to protest People gather calling for justice for George Floyd, who died May 25 after being against the recent killing of George Floyd by police officers in Minneapolis, USA, restrained by police in Minneapolis, USA, in Rome’s People’s Square, Sunday, that has led to protests in many countries and across the US. June 7, 2020.

arity rally for the death of George Floyd

People pose next to an artwork by French artist Dugudus depicting U.S. President Donald Trump as a police officer pressing his knee into the neck of George Floyd while holding a bible, in Paris, France, Saturday, June 6, 2020.

Police clash with protesters during a Black Lives Matter protest rally in Westminster, London, Sunday, June 7, 2020.

Page 28

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

CAREER OPPORTUNITY Do you aspire to build a thriving hospitality career at one of the leading luxury resorts in the Caribbean? Are you a self-motivated, talented team-player, interested in joining a dynamic team? The Amanyara Resort invites all suitable candidates to apply for the following position: *VILLA DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING •Leads the Villa Engineering Department under the direction of the Director of Facilities and oversees all event set-ups at the villas. Thereby carries out all predictive, corrective and preventative maintenance of the Villa Electrical infrastructure, water distribution system, refrigeration and all equipment and appliances. •Maintains and improves the hardscaping and exterior engineering systems in collaboration with the Landscaping team and Villa staff. •Responsible for Energy Management and leak control on all Villa real estate. •Effectively communicates and plans all works in collaboration with the Villa Management team and develops good relationships with the Villa Owners. •Ensures compliance with all EHS requirements and safety policies and procedures. •Specializes in electronic equipment, including electric motors, machinery controls, lighting, and wiring in buildings and communications systems, and power generation, control, and transmission devices used by electric utilities. •Tests equipment and isolate defects. Plans, schedules, conducts, and coordinates program of assigned engineering work and projects. Evaluate the effectiveness of the electrical (Upgrade)design and change if necessary. •Controls costs, ensuring that projects are properly scoped, costs are reported, and expenses tracked. Prepares financial and work planning forecasts and ensures accuracy in the completion of purchase requisitions. •Maintains a clean and safe working environment; Mechanical, Swimming Pools, Plumbing, and Woodworking. •Designs and plans continuous improvement to the entire site utility, this will include emerging technologies and renewable energy sources. •Responsible for developing and overseeing Hurricane preparedness initiatives for all Villas. •Takes monthly electrical, gas, water, diesel, petrol, and meter readings and formulates monthly reports. •Maintains records of the various transformers tests, Megger, Transformer Turns Ratio, Di-electrical, and Oil sampling are performed annually. •Secures, and maintains a record of all tools checked out and in, log keeping proper inventory. •Provides supervision and quality assurance for ongoing projects •Monitors and maintain all lift stations and waste water systems. •Inspects installations and observes operations to ensure compliance with design and equipment specifications and safety standards. •Electrical preventive maintenance procedures and routines and record keeping to be a priority. Develops, maintains, and administers facilities documentation and information management systems by maintaining

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

facilities documentation management systems to ensure drawings, project files, specifications and standards, databases, equipment files, vendor files, historical records and other related documents are archived, up to date, and easily available for use by other departments. •Ensures ongoing assessments of the electrical system, evaluating equipment performance and property’s load balancing; identifying and approving recommendations to improve system performance; and overseeing the implementation of system changes. •Manages the constant maintenance of the architectural finishes on all the Villa buildings to the highest standards. Requirements: •A degree in Electrical Engineering or a diploma in the Electrical Engineering with relevant experience, or a diploma in Mechanical Engineering with Electrical Engineering experience. •Minimumof5yearssupervisoryexperienceinaProperty Maintenance or Engineering Department •Knowledge of integrated building control systems and IT capabilities. •Must be well versed in the codes for safe electrical design, installation, and inspection, to protect people and property from electrical hazards. •Knowledge of kitchen and laundry equipment maintenance and refrigeration procedures, Life and fire safety systems, Building maintenance, Weather preparedness systems, GP’s, and Public Areas. Salary range from $9000 to $10,000 per month based on qualifications and experience; plus service charge. *MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN •Responsible for proper refrigeration maintenance, troubleshooting, repairs and conducting preventative maintenance on HVAC units & HVAC systems •Installs AC compressors, motors, condensers, air filters, and checks copper line repairs •Assists with electrical maintenance, ceiling fans, buggy repairs, company lighting systems and any other electrical needs that may arise inclusive of conducting mechanical, generator, air condition and laundry equipment repairs Requirements: •At least 2-3 years of experience in a luxury resort •Ability to perform under pressure and maintain a pleasant personality •Proficiency in English Salary based on experience: $6.25-$12.00 per hour, plus service charge For further information on the above positions please contact us by using the details below.Candidates must be available to work 6 days a week, weekends, and holidays. Positions marked with * are currently held by a work permit holder. However, qualified belongers are encouraged to send a cover letter & resume with the following attachments: Valid Police Record, Passport Bio Page, Proof of TCI status i.e. PRC, Belonger Status Card or Naturalization Certificate. Human Resources Amanyara Resort Northwest Point, Providenciales E: amanyarahrassistant@aman.com Prospective applicants are also asked to send copies to the Labour Board. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 29

ENTERTAINMENT

Amid unrest, songs continue to voice the black experience After watching the ghastly video of George Floyd dying as a police officer pressed a knee on his neck, Grammy-nominated R&B singer Trey Songz couldn’t sleep. He felt a pain in his gut so heavy it brought him down to his home studio, where he began recording a new song. Though Songz said the melody and lyrics came to him quickly, his voice cracked and he couldn’t sing. “As I tried to get (the lyrics) out, I couldn’t get them out,” the 35-year-old said. “My voice would break, or tears would fall.” So he went into the Los Angeles streets to protest in solidarity alongside thousands grieving Floyd’s death and demanding reforms to policing in America. “It was so much love and good energy out there, like so much hope. Really looking to your right, to your left, seeing people of so many ethnicities standing for our cause — it gave me the strength that I needed to come back and finish the song,” he said. “2020 Riots: How Many Times” was released Friday and features an-all black choir from Atlanta elevating Songz’ passionate vocals on the track. “I was actually crying on some of them lyrics,” he said. “It’s pain. It’s sadness. It’s anger. It’s rage. It’s confusion.” Other musicians have released songs in the last week in the wake of Floyd’s death and those of Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor. The artists include Meek Mill, Kane Brown, Ty Dolla $ign, Terrace Martin

This image shows, from left, Trey Songz performing at the BET Awards in Los Angeles on June 25, 2017, Mickey Guyton performing at the PBS’s American Masters “Patsy Clyne” panel at the 2017 Television Critics Association press tour in Pasadena, Calif., on Jan. 15, 2017 and Leon Bridges performing at the 2016 Apollo Theater Spring Gala in New York on June 13, 2016. and Run the Jewels (a Spotify playlist of the songs can be found here ). “How you gonna serve and protect with your knee on my neck,” T.I. raps on Nasty C’s “They Don’t,” released Friday. YG, the platinum-selling rapper who released a hard-hitting diss song about President Donald Trump in 2016, dropped a punchy West Coast-flavored track last week called “FTP,” which stands for “F-- the Police.” On the song, the Compton performer raps: “It’s the Ku Klux cops, they on a mission/It’s the Ku Klux cops, got hidden agendas/It’s the truth, I won’t stop.” LL Cool J posted a fiery freestyle on Instagram and hip-hop artist Jung Youth, who is white, tackles discrimination against blacks on “God Only Knows.” “They killed a brother for the color of his skin again/Reminds me of how they treated Serena at Wimbledon,” he raps at the top of the song. Mickey Guyton, one of the

Creator fires ‘Law & Order’ spin-off writer for online posts A TV writer who has worked on “S.W.A.T.” and “Chicago P.D.” was fired from an upcoming “Law & Order” spinoff because of online posts about social unrest in Los Angeles. Craig Gore was dropped from NBC’s “Law & Order: Organized Crime” by franchise creator Dick Wolf. “I will not tolerate this conduct, especially during our hour of national grief. I am terminating Craig Gore immediately,” Wolf said in a statement. An attorney for Gore didn’t immediately respond Tuesday to a request for comment. NBC declined to comment. In a post circulated on social media Tuesday and captioned “Curfew…” Gore is shown holding a firearm. In another post, he wrote that famed Sunset Boulevard was being “looted two blocks from me,” and added, “You think I won’t light (expletive) up who are are trying to (expletive) w/ my property I worked all my life for? Think again.” As with other U.S. cities, Los Angeles has seen both

peaceful protests and violence in the streets following the of George Floyd on May 25. A bystander’s video showed a since-charged white police officer pressing his knee into Floyd’s neck for several minutes, even when he had stopped moving. Christopher Meloni, the former “Law & Order: SVU” star who will head the cast of “Law & Order: Organized Crime,” pushed back against online critics that referred to Gore as an executive producer, or showrunner, on the new series. “Truth: Matt Olmstead is my Showrunner,” Meloni said online. “I have gotten no word on ANY hirings I have no idea who this person is or what they do.” Olmstead is a veteran producer and writer whose credits include “Chicago P.D.,” which is part of another Wolf series franchise. Ice-T of “Law & Order: SVU” tipped his hat to Wolf in a post Tuesday. “The Big Boss is cleaning house… RESPECT,” the actor and musician wrote.

few black voices on the country music scene, wrote the song “Black Like Me” last year about her life story and experiences with racism. She released the song on Black Out Tuesday, and said that when she hears it now she thinks of “George, Ahmaud, Breonna.” “I have been an absolute wreck since Ahmaud Aubrey (died). That’s the first one that just punched me in my gut because you could see him in that video scared for his life. Then seeing Breonna Taylor and having a sister ... I saw myself in her and that took me down a darker space. I’ve been crying for weeks. Then to see George Floyd...,” she said. “I couldn’t believe I had a song that expressed everything that we feel.” “Black Like Me” is a poignant tune featuring the lyrics: “If you think we live in the land of the free/ You should try to be black like me.” “I wrote that song to heal my heart,” she said. “This is a song for people to understand what we’re

going through. We need to talk about that.” Like Guyton, Grammywinning singer Leon Bridges pulled from a song he had previously written about black life and police brutality to relate to today’s grief and pain. On Monday, he released the track “Sweeter.” “With that song, I want people to listen from the perspective of the black man. The black man in the grip of the oppressor. The black man in his last moments transitioning from life to death and literally his mind, body and soul is having a flashback to his murder essentially,” the 30-year-old said. “I’ve always struggled with how to write about some of the problems that we face in America as black men. I’ve always struggled with how to write about those things in a tasteful way. When I look at this song ‘Sweeter,’ I just feel like it’s a gift from God.” Bridges said he originally planned to release another single, but decided to go with “Sweeter” this week because it was so relevant. “When you constantly see black men die at the hands of police, it’s like a callus is formed over your emotions to where you can’t feel anything. I would say, for me, the straw that broke the camel’s back was seeing George Floyd,” he said. “It was the first time that I shed tears over a man that I didn’t even know, over a black man. I’ve always been aware but that was the first time I shed real tears because I saw myself, I saw my brother, I saw my sisters in that moment.”

Kanye West attends Chicago protest, donates $2M to victims

Kanye West on stage during a service at Lakewood Church in Houston. Kanye West has donated $2 million to support the families and legal teams for George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor. A representative for the rapper confirmed that some of the money donated would fully cover college tuition costs for Floyd’s 6-year-old daughter, Gianna. Floyd died last month after a Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee on his neck for more than eight minutes as he pleaded for air.

Donations were also made to the legal teams of Arbery, who was gunned down while jogging in Georgia in February, and Taylor, who was killed in her home in Louisville in March. Friday would have been Taylor’s 27th birthday. West marched with protesters in his hometown of Chicago on Thursday night. Largely peaceful protests following the deaths of Floyd, Taylor and Arbery have led to outbreaks of violence in many larger cities.

Page 30

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

LOCAL NEWS ENTERTAINMENT Union files complaint against NBC, ‘America’s Got Talent’

Gabrielle Union at the “America’s Got Talent” Season 14 Kickoff in Pasadena, Calif. Gabrielle Union filed a complaint Thursday with the state of California against NBC and the producers of “America’s Got Talent,” the latest move in a fight over her allegations that she was fired for objecting to an on-set environment that tolerated racism. The complaint filed with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing says Union was harassed and discriminated against because of her race, and experienced retaliation for reporting these problems. The document enumerates previously reported issues that Union, who is black, had with the show’s acceptance of racist jokes and remarks from judges, and cites criticism she received about her hair during tapings. “Union, a black woman, was singled out due to her physical appearance and discriminated against by NBC due to the fact that her hair did not fit within the white image that NBC apparently sought to convey to the audience of AGT,” the complaint states, adding that a network executive and a show producer “informed Union’s manager that her hair was ‘too wild’ and that it needed to be ‘toned down.’” The complaint also contains new allegations that NBC Entertainment Chairman Paul Telegdy called Union’s agents to issue unspecified threats, shared confidential information on the controversy with celebrities that the show was looking to hire and sought to undermine an investigation of Union’s issues. “The allegation that anyone involved in this process threatened Ms. Union is categorically untrue,” the network’s parent company NBCUniversal said in a statement. “We took Ms. Union’s concerns seriously, and engaged an outside investigator who found an overarching culture of diversity on the show.” That outside investigation commissioned by the network and producers, whose results were announced last week, found Union’s allegations were unfounded, and had no bearing on the decision to drop her as a judge. The review acknowledged unspecified “areas in which reporting processes could be improved.” Union, known for her roles in the films “Bring It On” and “Bad Boys II,” appeared on the talent showcase for a season, until she and fellow freshman judge Julianne Hough weren’t asked to return.

Jesus Rigby

Location: #45, Epharm St, Five Cays, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking a Nanny/Domestic Worker Duties include cooking, general leaning and caring for children Must speak English, honest and trustworthy To work 6 days a week Salary is $7.00 an hour Please Contact: 333-2621 This position is new Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders must submit copied of their applications to the Labour Board #195248

The Obamas deliver speeches during YouTube virtual ceremony President Barack Obama said in a commencement speech Sunday that the nationwide protests following the recent deaths of unarmed black women and men including George Floyd were fueled from “decades worth of anguish, frustration, over unequal treatment and a failure to perform police practices.” Obama along with his wife, Michelle, delivered speeches during YouTube’s “Dear Class of 2020” virtual ceremony. The duo, along with a wide-ranging, star-studded lineup including Beyoncé, Lady Gaga and Tom Brady, offered inspirational messages in hopes of uplifting new graduates. The former president told graduates that the coronavirus shined a light on a plethora of America’s ongoing issues. “In a lot of ways, the pandemic just brought into focus problems that have been growing for a very long time,” he continued. “Whether it’s widening economic inequality, the lack of basic health care for millions of people, the continuing scourge of bigotry and sexism, or the division or dysfunction that plagued our political system.” Obama added: “As scary and uncertain these times may be, they are also a wake-up call. And they’re an incredible opportunity for your generation.” Michelle Obama said the ongoing protests following Floyd’s death are a “direct result of decades of unaddressed, prejudice and inequality.” She said she understands those who are “scared or confused or angry, or just plain overwhelmed” with the events the past few months. “Over these past couple of months, our foundation has been shaken,” she said. “Not

Former President Barack Obama, right, and former first lady Michelle Obama appear at the Obama Foundation Summit in Chicago. just by a pandemic that stole too many of our loved ones, upended our daily lives and sent tens of millions into unemployment, but also by the rumbling of the age-old fault lines that our country was built on, the lines of race and power that are now once again so nakedly exposed for all of us to grapple with.” Beyoncé delivered a stirring 10-minute speech to graduates. She spoke about the recent protests as well as shared her secrets to success and the importance of ownership. “You are achieving things your parents and grandparents never could imagine for themselves,” she said. “You are the answer to a generation of prayers.” Beyoncé advised graduates to believe in themselves as she did when the singer started her own company a decade ago. She said creating her own lane was challenging in an entertainment business that is still “very sexist” and “maledominated.” The singer also said the protests have already made

an impact. “Look what you’ve been able to do in the last 14 days,” she said. “We’ve seen the power of the collective. We’ve seen what happens when we join for the same cause. Please, continue to be the voice for the voiceless.” The four-hour ceremony was filmed over the last several weeks, but Lady Gaga decided to re-record her message. Her initial speech touched on the effect COVID-19 had on this year’s graduating class, but she wanted to speak more on the Floyd’s death, the Black Lives Matter movement and racism in America. “While my original commencement speech may not be directly relevant to what this country needs most right now, I wish to tell you today that though there is much to be sad about, there is also much to celebrated,” she said. “You are watching what is a pivotal moment in this country’s evolution. ... Change will happen, and it will be for the better.”

Fox News: Black deaths, stock market graphic was insensitive Fox News apologized Saturday for how it displayed a chart correlating the stock market’s performance with the aftermath of the deaths of George Floyd, Martin Luther King Jr. and Michael Brown. The graphic that aired Friday to illustrate market reactions to historic periods of civil unrest “should have never aired on television without full context. We apologize for the insensitivity of the image and take this issue seriously,” the cable channel said in a statement. The chart included on “Special Report with Bret Baier” illustrated gains made by the S&P 500 index after King’s assassination in 1968; the Ferguson, Missouri, police

shooting of 18-year-old Michael Brown in 2014, and the May 25 death of Floyd while in Minneapolis police custody. It also measured the financial yardstick against the 1991 acquittal of Los Angeles police officers in the beating of Rodney King. It was shown as part of a segment with Fox News and Fox Business reporter Susan Li focusing on the market rally that followed an unexpectedly lower number of jobless claims. Other business publications and TV channels in recent days have compared the market’s performance to current and historic social upheaval, but with significant background and explanation. Rep. Bobby Rush,

Bret Baier during a Fox News town-hall style event, in Bethlehem, Pa. D-Illinois, tweeted that the graphic makes it clear that Fox News “does not care about black lives,” while Michael Steele, former Republican National Committee chair and a MSNBC political analyst, posted, “This is how they mourn the loss of black men at #FoxNews - by how much the stock market goes up.”

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

HEALTHY

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 31

LIFESTYLE

U.S. could reach 200,000 coronavirus deaths in September, expert says

The United States may see 200,000 deaths because of the coronavirus at some point in September, a leading expert said, while total U.S. coronavirus cases surpassed 2 million on Wednesday as governments relax restrictions. Ashish Jha, the head of Harvard’s Global Health Institute, told CNN in an interview on Wednesday that without drastic action, the number of U.S. deaths would march on. “Even if we don’t have increasing cases, even if we keep things flat, it’s reasonable to expect that we’re going to hit 200,000 deaths sometime during the month of September,” Jha said. “And that’s just through September. The pandemic won’t be over in September.” Jha added: “I’m really worried about where we’re going to be in the weeks and months ahead.” Total U.S. coronavirusrelated deaths totaled 112,754 on Wednesday, the most in the world. Jha said that was directly tied to the fact the United States was the only major country to reopen without getting its case growth to a controlled level - a rate of people

New York City Fire Department (FDNY) EMT’s arrive with a patient at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, during the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in the Far Rockaway section of Queens in New York City, U.S., May 20, 2020. testing positive for the coronavirus remaining at 5% or lower for at least 14 days. He said the deaths were not “something we have to be fated with” and could be prevented by ramping up testing and contact tracing, strict social distancing and widespread use of masks. Several U.S. states have seen coronavirus cases jump in recent days, causing great concern among

EU plans advance purchase of up to six promising COVID-19 vaccines The European Commission is seeking a mandate from EU governments to buy in advance from pharmaceutical firms up to six promising vaccines against the coronavirus, two officials told Reuters. The EU executive will ask EU health ministers at a video conference meeting on Friday to back the plan, as the bloc fears it may not have enough shots if a vaccine is developed, the officials said. “We pay upfront a significant part of the investment needed in exchange for a commitment from the pharmaceutical manufacturer to give us a vaccine when is available if it is successful,” a third

Small bottles labeled with a “Vaccine COVID-19” sticker and a medical syringe are seen in this illustration taken taken April 10, 2020. Commission official told a news conference. As part of the plan, the Commission will also propose a temporary softening of regulatory requirements to develop vaccines that contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs), the official said, confirming an earlier Reuters report.

Jha and other experts who say authorities are loosening restrictions too early. New Mexico, Utah and Arizona each saw its number of cases rise by 40% for the week ended Sunday, according to a Reuters analysis. Florida and Arkansas are other hot spots. Nationally, new infections are rising slightly after five weeks of declines, according to a Reuters

analysis that showed total cases at 2,003,038. Part of the increase is due to more testing, which hit a record high last Friday of 545,690 tests in a single day but has since fallen, according to the COVID-Tracking Project https:// covidtracking.com. It is also likely a result of more people moving about and resuming some business and social activities as all 50 states gradually reopen after lockdowns designed to curb the spread of the coronavirus. Health officials urged anyone who took part in nationwide protests for racial justice to get tested. Experts fear that the protests, with no social distancing, that have occurred since the May 25 death of George Floyd in Minneapolis police custody could lead to another spike in cases. But Vice President Mike Pence said he saw no sign of that. “What I can tell you is that, at this point, we don’t see an increase in new cases now, nearly two weeks on from when the first protests took effect,” Pence said in an interview on Fox Business Network. “Many people at protests were wearing masks and engaging in some social distancing.”

2 Nebraska children diagnosed with condition linked to virus Two children in Nebraska Sunday, to bring the state’s total have been diagnosed with a to 15,634. Officials say 188 rare and serious inflammatory people in Nebraska have died condition that’s linked to the new from COVID-19. coronavirus. Nearly 122,000 people in Last week, a 9-year-old Nebraska have been tested, and Lexington boy was diagnosed hospital capacity was stable, with with the condition. On Monday, 45% of hospital beds, 46% of the Douglas County Health intensive care unit beds and 78% Department announced that of ventilators available for use. a child under 12 has been For most people, the hospitalized with the condition. coronavirus causes mild or That news came as the moderate symptoms that clear one-day total of new coronavirus up within weeks. But for others, cases in the state dropped to especially older adults and people under 100 for the first time with existing health problems, since May 10. Nebraska’s online the highly contagious virus can coronavirus tracking dashboard cause severe symptoms and be shows 91 new cases were reported fatal.

England’s coronavirus test and trace system identifies nearly 32,000 in first week England’s test and trace lockdown measures while keeping system identified 31,794 people the coronavirus spread in check. who had been in close contact with Other countries in the someone who had tested positive United Kingdom have similar for COVID-19 in its first week of programs to the one in England. operation, the government said Program leader Dido Harding said on Thursday. the service was already working at Some 85% of them were scale and would step up over the reached by the government’s new summer. army of contact tracers and told “Is it completely perfect? to self-isolate for two weeks. No of course it isn’t,” she said. Prime Minister Boris “But I think it is fit for purpose as Johnson’s government, facing we stand today.” heavy criticism for its handling The program handled of the pandemic, has touted 8,117 people who tested positive the scheme as the way to ease for coronavirus between May 28

and June 3, of whom 5,407 were asked to provide details of recent contacts, the government said. The contacts, who typically would have been within 2 meters of the person who tested positive and for more than 15 minutes, were traced by local health protection teams, newly recruited staff and online. Harding said more than three quarters of contacts were reached and agreed to selfisolate within 24 hours of being identified. “We are not at the gold

standard yet that we want to be of isolating all contacts within 48 hours of someone requesting a test, but you can absolutely see the path of how we get there,” she said. A smartphone tracking app will be added in the coming weeks, although the government has not specified when. Britain is one of the countries worst hit by the coronavirus. By Tuesday the death toll neared 52,000, according to a Reuters tally of official data sources.

Page 32

HEALTHY

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

LOCAL NEWS

LIFESTYLE Coronavirus spreads among fruit and vegetable packers, worrying U.S. officials From apple packing houses in Washington state to farm workers in Florida and a California county known as “the world’s salad bowl,” outbreaks of the novel coronavirus are emerging at U.S. fruit and vegetable farms and packing plants. A rising number of sick farm and packing house workers comes after thousands of meat plant employees contracted the virus and could lead to more labor shortages and a fresh wave of disruption to U.S. food production. The Trump administration said last month it may extend an executive order to keep meat plants operating to fruit and vegetable producers as well, a sign it is concerned fresh produce could be the next sector hit. While social distancing can be more easily implemented for workers harvesting fruits and vegetables in fields and working outside may reduce some risks for virus spread, plants that package foods such as apples and carrots resemble the elbow-to-elbow conditions that contributed to outbreaks at U.S. meat packing plants. By late May, there were more than 600 cases of COVID-19 among agricultural workers in Yakima County, Washington. Of those, 62%

were workers in the apple industry and other packing operations or warehouses, according to a Reuters review of data from county health officials. With 4,834 known cases as of June 10, the county had the highest per-capita infection rate on the West Coast. “The (production) line moves super fast. And you’re working side by side and back to back,” said Edgar Franks, political director with local farmworker union Familias Unidas por la Justicia in Washington state. Workers at six fruit packing sites in Yakima County went on strike in May due to concerns they were not being provided adequate protection from COVID-19, Franks said. The health department in Monterey County, California, known as “the world’s salad bowl” for its sprawling vegetable farms, reported 247 agricultural workers had tested positive for coronavirus as of June 5, 39% of county’s total cases. Monterey is one of only a handful of health departments in nearly 30 of the largest U.S. fruit and vegetable producing counties that tracks virus cases among agricultural workers, Reuters found. In adjacent Kern county, Martin Baca, a 53 year-old forklift operator at carrot grower Grimmway

Farms died on April 30, according to his obituary. His family said they believe he contracted the virus at work. Grimmway grieved the loss of an employee and was supporting the family, a spokesperson said. The company said it did not definitively know where Baca contracted COVID-19. Grimmway is the largest carrot producer in the world and dominates the market of popular packaged “baby carrots,” for snacking. Juan, a Grimmway employee who asked to be identified only by his first name out of fear of losing his job, said at one point so many workers were out sick his shift dwindled to a third of the needed workers. “They made some announcements to stay six feet apart but that’s basically impossible when you are loading boxes onto the same pallet,” said Juan, who tested positive for coronavirus himself though he showed no symptoms. “Obviously you are going to be close to your coworkers.” Grimmway declined to say how many workers had tested positive for the virus and said it has seen no issues of absenteeism. When a worker falls ill, the company talks

IMF says $10 trillion spent to combat pandemic, far more needed

Vicki Taylor, a healthcare assistant wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) takes a blood sample from Wayne Morris, a patient at the Woodford medical clinic at Freshney Green Primary Care Centre in Grimsby, Britain June 9, 2020. Governments around the world have spent $10 trillion in fiscal actions to respond to the novel coronavirus pandemic and its economic fallout, but significant further efforts are needed, the head of the International Monetary Fund said on Thursday. IMF Managing Director

Kristalina Georgieva said new estimates suggested that up to 100 million people could be pushed into extreme poverty as a result of the crisis, and further spending should focus on minimizing job losses and preventing a rise in inequality. To promote a more inclusive recovery, investments

should focus on improving access to health care and education, strengthening climate protections and broadening the access of lowincome households and small business to financial products and technology, she wrote in a new blog on the IMF’s website.

Should runners wear a face mask outdoors?

Should runners wear a face mask outdoors? It depends. You won’t always need a face covering while jogging or riding a bike if you’re exercising with no one around, but it’s good to carry one just in case. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends people wear cloth

face coverings when out in public, especially in places where it’s hard to stay at least 6 feet away from others. If it’s difficult to breathe through a mask when running or doing other strenuous physical activity, find uncrowded trails or times to exercise when you won’t encounter others, says Mark

Cameron, an infectious disease expert at Case Western Reserve University. The more distance you can keep between yourself and others, the better, says Summer Johnson McGee, dean of the University of New Haven’s School of Health Sciences.

Fresh carrots are shown for sale at a grocery store in Del Mar, California, U.S. June 3, 2020. Picture taken June 3, 2020. to everyone working on that particular shift or department and offers company-funded COVID testing, Grimmway said in a statement. Carrot sales at U.S. stores rose 22% from a year ago in the 13 weeks to May 30, according to Nielsen data, as Americans bought nearly all their food from supermarkets with restaurants closed during coronavirus lockdowns. ‘GET AHEAD OF THIS’ On May 19 the U.S. Agriculture Department and Food and Drug Administration said the government could use the Defense Production Act to keep fruit and vegetable lines moving. The act would give companies some liability protection if workers fall sick.

Study: Black Americans most interested in COVID-19 news Black Americans, who have suffered disproportionately from the coronavirus, have shown a more intense interest in news about the pandemic compared to whites. Those were the consistent findings in a Pew Research Center survey taken in late April when COVID-19 was dominating the news. For example, 26% of blacks reported discussing the virus “almost all the time” with others, compared to 10% of whites who say that. Forty-eight percent of blacks told Pew they were closely following news about the local availability of coronavirus tests, compared to 25 % of whites. Similarly, almost half of black people questioned (47%) said they were following stories about local hospitals closely, while a quarter of whites (24%) said the same thing. Roughly half of blacks had an intense interest in the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths, with 34% of whites saying the same thing. “The differences in these data are particularly striking,” said Amy Mitchell, director of journalism research at Pew. According to current CDC death statistics, 23% of the Americans who have died from COVID-19 deaths were black, though blacks make up only about 13% of the U.S. population. About 53% of COVID-19 fatalities were white, though whites make up about 60% of the U.S. population The margin of error in Pew’s American News Pathways Project is plus or minus 1.5%.

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

CARIBBEAN WORLD

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 33

CARIBBEAN NEWS

NEWS NEWS

Caribbean Islands Begin Reopening to Americans The sun-drenched islands of the Caribbean have been quieter than usual in the last two months. The coronavirus outbreak hit the region at the end of February, giving it time to take note from other hardhit areas. As a result, Caribbean islands closed borders while case counts were still small, and enforced local lockdowns. The region’s infection tally is currently less than half a percent of cases worldwide—and now, it’s one of the first destinations in North America that’s ready to bring travelers back. “The English-speaking Caribbean has achieved containment of COVID-19,” says Dr. Clive Landis, pro vice-chancellor at the University of the West Indies and head of UWI’s COVID-19 task force. Curves are also flattening in much of the Dutch and French Caribbean. “The next phase will be critical as Caribbean countries begin to cautiously reopen their economies,” says Landis. In that next phase, which countries are working on now, new government-mandated protocols will outline safety standards for airports, taxis, and hotels. Most property managers are retraining staff on disinfection and distancing as they face new realities on the islands. The Caribbean islands reopening are moving cautiously, in order to rekindle tourism while keeping both residents and visitors safe.

A gradual return to air travel The U.S. Virgin Islands is poised to lead the region’s reopening, letting leisure visitors back into St. Thomas and St. Croix by way of American Airlines on June 1, though the only flights currently posted originate from San Juan, Puerto Rico. “The airlines are all expected— assuming that we keep the same mandate of June 1—to increase flights to the territory,” says USVI commissioner of tourism Joseph Boschulte, who added that Delta has expressed plans to add flights at travelers’ increasing request. Following USVI, Antigua is set to open on June 4, with one American Airlines flight from Miami. St. Lucia will also allow U.S. visitors back on June 4, and American Airlines will operate the single inbound flight from Miami that day. The region hopes to eventually welcome U.K. travelers back, but British Airways isn’t expected to restore flights until July. Aruba and Grenada also intend to reopen in June, and Belize and the Bahamas are slated to follow in July. JetBlue is “planning a slow increase as borders are opened and restrictions are eased,” says Tamara Young, a corporate communications representative. “In June, we tentatively plan to offer limited service to 13 international destinations.” In the Caribbean, those destinations include flights

Harris sworn in for second term as St Kitts PM

to Grenada, Jamaica, the Bahamas, Haiti, Turks and Caicos, and St. Lucia. Travelers to the Caribbean will either be tested on arrival or have to present proof of a negative virus test taken 48 hours before boarding. St. Lucia and Antigua fall into the latter camp. However, testing availability could be an issue—in the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s current recommendation still doesn’t include testing individuals without symptoms. Once there, visitors will be expected to wear masks and practice distancing in public places across the region. The Caribbean attracted 31.5 million visitors last year, according to the Caribbean Tourism Organization, and with some islands relying on tourism for more than half of their gross domestic product, many in the region are eager to recover from more than six weeks without visitors. That’s all part of what’s driving this next phase of opening up, says Boschulte, who added that tourism represents nearly 60 percent of USVI’s GDP. “I think the islands need their visitors,” says Karolin Troubetzkoy, president of the St. Lucia Hospitality & Tourism Association and executive director of the island’s Jade Mountain resort and Anse Chastanet properties. But nobody wants to rush into reopening borders and “risk that we are bringing COVID back in,” she says. “ So, clearly, we are giving a lot of thought to ensure that we can keep the country safe, keep the

guests safe.” At Jade Mountain, the 29 rooms overlooking St. Lucia’s Pitons mountains were already set up so guests could go days without encountering anyone but their butler. Now even wait staff and housekeeping can make themselves scarce upon request. Guests— including many who have asked to keep their July bookings—will find hygiene stations around the property and a dining room spaced for distancing. Conflicting emotions around reopening On the other side of St. Lucia, at Duke’s Place in Gros Islet—a fish grill where locals and visitors dine seaside on Friday and Saturday nights—owner Erwin David thinks it would be better not to rush reopening to travelers from hard-hit places, like the U.S. and Europe. “I personally feel like the American market would be the highest risk,” he says, though that’s the very market St. Lucia will welcome back first. Still, he’s prepared to spread dining tables out and keep what’s always a long line of eager eaters from getting too close. “As long as we take the necessary precaution measures, we will be okay. We are a small island and we cannot afford to let things go out of hand here. Our population is only about 180,000 people. That can wipe us out.”

‘Enough is Enough’: Jamaicans protest in support of George Floyd

People hold posters as they take part in a demonstration against the death in Minneapolis police custody of George Floyd, at the Emancipation park in Kingston, Jamaica June 6, 2020.

Dr Timothy Harris is sworn in for his second term as Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis. Dr Timothy Harris was let down the people of St Kitts and Wearing black and braving sworn in as Prime Minister for a Nevis.” a blistering sun, Jamaicans gathered second term on Sunday. Harris, who hailed the on Saturday to lend support to Harris’ Team Unity outgoing Team Unity Cabinet, said global protests against police abuses administration, which is comprised that it was an honour for him to sparked by the death of George Floyd of the Concerned Citizens have the opportunity to be sworn in in Minneapolis last month. Movement (CCM) in Nevis, the for a second time as Prime Minister. Several hundred people stood People’s Action Movement (PAM) “We shall create the outside the U.S. Embassy in Kingston and the People’s Labour Party (PLP) modern history in St Kitts and with signs and t-shirts reading both in St Kitts, was re-elected Nevis by making the example of “Black Lives Matter” and “Enough with an overwhelming majority the best managed small island state. is Enough,” demanding justice for on Friday, with nine out of the That is my pledge and that is my Floyd as well as Jamaicans who have Federation’s 11 constituencies commitment.” died at the hands of security forces. delivering a win for the incumbent In addition, Harris said this Floyd, a black American, died government. would be his last term serving as in Minneapolis after a white police During the ceremony Harris Prime Minister, a promise he made officer knelt on his neck during an pledged to fulfill his campaign in 2015, then saying he would only arrest. promises to people of the twin serve two terms if elected. The Kingston protests were island federation. According to the Prime peaceful, and police mostly stood by “I promised I would not Minister, the success at the polls is watching as demonstrators voiced let you down and promised the a vindication of excellent work on their concerns. administration that I . . . will not behalf of the people. “I am here to protest against

injustice and systematic racism,” said Michael Pottinger, 58. According to a governmentbacked study, over 3,000 Jamaicans have been killed by law enforcement officials since 2000. In a country where the vast majority of people are of African descent, Jamaicans say racism can take on subtler forms. Jemila Henry, 23, expressed solidarity with U.S. protesters and wanted to raise awareness of local problems. “You have persons in Jamaica who don’t believe we experience anything remotely racist, but technically it can be described as colorism,” she said, noting that Jamaicans with lighter skin are perceived as superior to those with darker skin.

Page 34

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

CARIBBEAN NEWS Jamaica in talks to provide insurance for tourists

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett. Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett says discussions are in the final stages with insurance and global logistics providers to enable travellers who test positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) to be quickly isolated and repatriated. The move comes as the country prepares to reopen the sector for business beginning June 15. “I want to make the point that we have done checks around and Jamaica is the only country in the Caribbean and arguably, the only one in the Americas that has taken on this responsibility now, to begin those negotiations and discussions with insurance and global logistics providers,” said Bartlett who was speaking during a recent digital press conference. “I met one of those groups in London a few years ago . . . and among the many things they do is to provide quick response to remove distress situations and to deal with medical emergencies,” he noted. He said that the discussions are focused on a programme “that will enable low cost coverage for visitors who come into the country.” “Without trying to give the full figure, I can assure you it will be less than US$20 per person for that coverage, which will allow them to be rescued and be repatriated once there is a positive case of COVID-19,” he noted. Meanwhile, he assured that the health of tourism workers will be safeguarded. He said that all workers will have access to a trained, onsite COVID-19 safety point person and an onsite or on-call medical professional. “This combination of resources will provide workers with the resources they need for quick health consultations, isolation and testing if required,” he said.

Haiti records 3 000 virus cases in one month

PORT AU PRINCE - Haiti has recorded more than 3 000 cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) during a one-month period as the French-speaking Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country announced that 262 cases had been confirmed over 24 hours on Monday. The Ministry of Public Health said the new cases, more than 100 per cent on the previous day, bring the total to 3 334 since the first case was detected on March 19 It said that in the past 30 days, there had been 3 205 positive cases more cases and that the death toll had increased by one to 51. The Ministry of Health said that there were 3 259 active cases, while the number of suspected cases since March 19: is 7 351 cases.

Meanwhile, the group, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) said that it believes the real figures regarding the number of people testing positive for the virus “are probably much higher”. MSF, which opened a 45-bed Covid-19 treatment centre here last month, said it is currently treating 25 patients, mainly of whom are “seriously ill”. MSF chief of mission in Haiti, Hassan Issa, said that the group is also following 60 other patients on an outpatient basis in the capital and surrounding areas. “Some patients come to us with positive test results, and others who need oxygen or hospitalization are treated while we send their test to a government-run laboratory,” Issa added.

MSF said it is also concerned that many people with COVID-19 symptoms are not going to the hospital for treatment, thereby spreading the virus in communities and reducing the chances of survival for individuals. “As the spread of the virus accelerates, so does the stigma around it,” said Issa, adding “many people with symptoms of COVID-19 are slow to come or forgo treatment. “A dozen patients died on arrival and many more were in critical condition and in light of this, we continue to carry out health promotion activities and call those with symptoms of COVID-19 to seek immediate care, as this can significantly improve their chances of being treated successfully,” Issa added.

Four members of Antigua security forces charged with murder

Four members of the security forces were remanded into custody on Monday after they appeared in court on a charge of murdering Bruce Greenaway, whose body was found at Indian Creek on the outskirts of the capital, on April 13, a few days after he had been reported missing. Police officer, Jason Modeste, 44, and members of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force – Shakiel Thomas, 25; Armal Warner, 26; and 20-yearold Aliyah Martin, have been charged with murder and will return to court on September 23. Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel-Edwards remanded the four accused to Her Majesty’s Prison despite a plea from defence lawyer Lawrence Daniel that they be housed at Camp Blizzard. There was tight security

around the court building on Monday. A post mortem had found that Greenaway, a father of two, died as a result of asphyxiation and Minister of Foreign Affairs Minister, E.P. Chet Greene, in a statement last month, said he was joining with all the residents of his St Paul constituency in anticipating “absolutely no delays in bringing the perpetrator or perpetrators to justice”. Attorney General and Minister of National Security, Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin, had earlier said he was confident Murder victim Bruce Greenaway. that the police will conduct a to prevent the spread of the fair and thorough investigation coronavirus (COVID-19). into the death of Greenaway. The ABDF said it had The victim was last seen taken the allegations seriously in the company of members and had conducted an internal of the ABDF, during the period investigation into the matter when the island was under a with the findings handed over curfew as part of the measures the police.

Jamaica records decrease in major crimes Jamaica is reporting an 11 per cent reduction in major crimes for the first five months of this year as compared to the same period last year. Deputy Commissioner of Police in Charge of Crime, Fitz Bailey, said that 2 325 major crimes were recorded between January 1 and May 31, as compared to 2 621 last year. “This represents a reduction of 269 or 11 per cent; all major crimes are down,” he said, adding that gang activity, as well as domestic-related and interpersonal violence, played a significant role in the number of murders committed. Bailey reported that the clear-up rate for major crimes for the period was 41 per cent due to better

prepared cases, more arrests and convictions. “We have employed an investigative strategy, which involved greater capacity building for the investigators, improved case management system, case conferences and reviews as well as linked investigations.” Over the period, 3 304 people were charged for 5 082 incidents of serious crimes, with 808 charged for category-one crimes, including murder, shooting, larceny, robbery, rape, burglary, aggravated assault. In addition, 227 firearms have been recovered and 13 kilograms of marijuana valued at J$138 million seized. So far this year, more than

550 people have been murdered in Jamaica, but Police Commissioner, Major General Antony Anderson, said the States of Public Emergency (SOEs) continue to be an effective strategy in reducing crime. He said that in Westmoreland, there is a 48 per cent drop in murders and a 39 per cent reduction in shootings, while in the north- Jamaica’s Commissioner of Police, Major western town of Hanover, murder is General Antony Anderson down 56 per cent while shooting is period prior to the declaration of the down 67 per cent. SOE. “In St. James, we are seeing an “In Kingston Eastern…we increase but . . . [the parish] has the have had a 68 per cent drop in lowest rate of homicides there in the murders and a 72 per cent drop in last… 17 years,” he said, adding that shootings. In St. Andrew South, the rate of homicides and violence we’ve had a five per cent drop in in St. James has been significantly murders and an 18 per cent drop in reduced when compared to the shootings,” the Commissioner said.

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 35

CARIBBEAN NEWS

Some virus free Caribbean islands are opening to tourism from Corona-ravaged US

Caribbean islands closed borders while case counts were still small, and enforced local lockdowns. The region’s infection tally is currently less than half a percent of cases worldwide—and now, it’s one of the first destinations in North America that’s ready to bring travelers back. “The English-speaking Caribbean has achieved containment of COVID-19,” says Dr. Clive Landis, pro vice-chancellor at the University of the West Indies and head of UWI’s COVID-19 task force. Curves are also flattening in much of the Dutch and French Caribbean. “The next phase will be critical as Caribbean countries begin to cautiously reopen their economies,” says Landis. In that next phase, which countries are working on now, new government-mandated protocols will outline safety standards for airports, taxis, and hotels. Most property managers are retraining staff on disinfection and distancing as they face new realities on the islands. The Caribbean islands reopening are moving cautiously, in order to rekindle tourism while keeping both residents and visitors safe. A gradual return to air travel The U.S. Virgin Islands is poised to lead the region’s reopening, letting leisure visitors back into St. Thomas and St. Croix

by way of American Airlines on June 1, though the only flights currently posted originate from San Juan, Puerto Rico. “The airlines are all expected—assuming that we keep the same mandate of June 1—to increase flights to the territory,” says USVI commissioner of tourism Joseph Boschulte, who added that Delta has expressed plans to add flights at travelers’ increasing request. Following USVI, Antigua is set to open on June 4, with one American Airlines flight from Miami. St. Lucia will also allow U.S. visitors back on June 4, and American Airlines will operate the single inbound flight from Miami that day. The region hopes to eventually welcome U.K. travelers back, but British Airways isn’t expected to restore flights until July. Aruba and Grenada also intend to reopen in June, and Belize and the Bahamas are slated to follow in July. JetBlue is “planning a slow increase as borders are opened and restrictions are eased,” says Tamara Young, a corporate communications representative. “In June, we tentatively plan to offer limited service to 13 international destinations.” In the Caribbean, those destinations include flights to Grenada, Jamaica, the Bahamas, Haiti, Turks and Caicos, and St. Lucia. Travelers to the Caribbean

CHTA urges major Tour Operator to settle its debts to Caribbean hotels The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) is calling on one of the world’s largest leisure, travel and tourism companies, TUI Group (Touristik Union International), to reimburse Caribbean hotels and resorts for services received. Last April, CHTA appealed for a response from those tour operators which had failed to reimburse hotels for first quarter (Q1) stays by travelers who had made their payments to the tour operators well in advance of their travel. “Most tour operators honored their obligations, and we’ve been pleased to see that a number of those who had delayed reimbursements have settled since our appeal in April,” said Frank Comito, CHTA’s CEO and Director General. “But millions of dollars in reimbursements remain obligated and are jeopardizing the hoteliers’ survival and ability to meet obligations, like taxes and labor expenses, because of the holdout by TUI and several other tour operators.” In a letter to Andrew Flintham, Managing Director of TUI’s United Kingdom and Ireland operations, Comito said he wanted the company to join its competitors in settling debts to Caribbean hotels whose survival is under threat. The CHTA chief executive also described efforts by TUI to advance amendments to payment terms for future contracts - which are even more onerous for hoteliers - and would be tied to receiving the Q1 payments that are contractually owed, as “unreasonable and untenable”. By failing to pay, TUI appears to be in breach of existing contractual obligations, Comito said, noting that these distressed hotels have been longstanding loyal partners, directly contributing to the build of TUI’s Caribbean book of business.

will either be tested on arrival or says. “ So, clearly, we are giving a have to present proof of a negative lot of thought to ensure that we virus test taken 48 hours before can keep the country safe, keep the boarding. St. Lucia and Antigua guests safe.” fall into the latter camp. However, At Jade Mountain, the testing availability could be an 29 rooms overlooking St. Lucia’s issue—in the U.S., the Centers for Pitons mountains were already set Disease Control and Prevention’s up so guests could go days without current recommendation still encountering anyone but their doesn’t include testing individuals butler. Now even wait staff and without symptoms. Once there, housekeeping can make themselves visitors will be expected to wear scarce upon request. Guests— masks and practice distancing in including many who have asked public places across the region. to keep their July bookings—will find hygiene stations around the The need for leisure travel property and a dining room spaced for distancing. The Caribbean attracted On the other side of St. 31.5 million visitors last year, Lucia, at Duke’s Place in Gros according to the Caribbean Tourism Islet—a fish grill where locals and Organization, and with some visitors dine seaside on Friday and islands relying on tourism for more Saturday nights—owner Erwin than half of their gross domestic David thinks it would be better not product, many in the region are to rush reopening to travelers from eager to recover from more than six hard-hit places, like the U.S. and weeks without visitors. Europe. That’s all part of what’s driving “I personally feel like the this next phase of opening up, says American market would be the Boschulte, who added that tourism highest risk,” he says, though represents nearly 60 percent of that’s the very market St. Lucia USVI’s GDP. will welcome back first. Still, he’s “I think the islands prepared to spread dining tables need their visitors,” says Karolin out and keep what’s always a long Troubetzkoy, president of the line of eager eaters from getting St. Lucia Hospitality & Tourism too close. “As long as we take the Association and executive director necessary precaution measures, we of the island’s Jade Mountain resort will be okay. We are a small island and Anse Chastanet properties. and we cannot afford to let things But nobody wants to rush into go out of hand here. Our population reopening borders and “risk that we is only about 180,000 people. That are bringing COVID back in,” she can wipe us out.”

Trinidad PM Rowley dismisses election threat from Opposition Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley on Saturday rubbished a threat by Opposition Leader Kamla Persad Bissessar of legal action should he name the date for a general election due later this year with the country’s borders still closed as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. “All I could say to that is that Trinidad and Tobago has a responsible government and that government observers the law and the supreme law in this country is the Constitution. The Constitution determines how and when an election could be called and it has nothing to do with the fuddles of any opposition leader,” Rowley told a news conference. Persad Bissessar, speaking at a virtual media conference earlier this week, told reporters that should the Prime Minister decides on calling the date for the general election at a time when the borders are closed “our lawyers will be waiting”. She said that there were thousands of citizens overseas who must be allowed to enter the country freely in order to cast their votes.

Leader of the United National Congress (UNC), Kamla Persad Bissessar and Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley General elections are due no later than November this year, and while Rowley has not given any indication as to when the People’s National Movement (PNM) would seek a new mandate from the population, he did earlier this week indicate that the Parliament would be dissolved in July. Under the Constitution, an election must be called within 90 days of the dissolution of the 41-member Parliament. Rowley said decisions taken regarding the health of the population in the COVID-19 era are taken with respect to the Public Health Ordnance “and

all those who believe that they own the court house and that is where they will conduct their politics, they are free to do so. “I will not be fazed by the threats of the Opposition Leader. If she had anything useful to say she would have said it and the fact that she is so obsessed with the election should tell this country all the country needs to know. “We are obsessed by other things election not being the number one priority. The number one priority in this country is to ensure that we minimise our exposure and our disruption by a virus in a pandemic and if she knows there is a law that says that in a pandemic you have no election, I thought I heard her calling for an election.” Rowley told reporters that the opening of the borders “is a matter for the government of Trinidad and Tobago”. He said perhaps the Opposition Leader wants the border open “for her members to come back home as they should…but that is not the basis on which we conduct the health care issues of Trinidad and Tobago.

Page 36

WORLD

NEWS

Alarming rise in virus cases as states roll back lockdowns NEW YORK — States are rolling back lockdowns, but the coronavirus isn’t done with the U.S. Cases are rising in nearly half the states, according to an Associated Press analysis, a worrying trend that could intensify as people return to work and venture out during the summer. In Arizona, hospitals have been told to prepare for the worst. Texas has more hospitalized COVID-19 patients than at any time before. And the governor of North Carolina said recent jumps caused him to rethink plans to reopen schools or businesses. There is no single reason for the surges. In some cases, more testing has revealed more cases. In others, local outbreaks are big enough to push statewide tallies higher. But experts think at least some are due to lifting stay-at-home orders, school and business closures, and other restrictions put in place during the spring to stem the virus’s spread. The increase in infections pulled stocks down sharply Thursday on Wall Street, dragging the Dow Jones Industrial Average more than 1,800 points lower and giving the S&P 500 its worst day in nearly three months. The infections deflated recent optimism that the economy could recover quickly from its worst crisis in decades. The virus is also gradually fanning out. “It is a disaster that spreads,” said Dr. Jay Butler, who oversees coronavirus response work at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “It’s not like there’s an entire continental seismic shift and everyone feels the shaking all at once.” That is also happening globally. Places that suffered early on such as China, Italy and Spain have calmed down but Brazil, India and other countries that were spared initially are seeing large increases. The world is seeing more than 100,000 newly-confirmed cases every day, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

World leaders won’t gather at UN for first time in 75 years

The president of the U.N. General Assembly said Monday that world leaders will not be coming to New York for their annual gathering in late September for the first time in the 75-year history of the United Nations because of the COVID-19 pandemic. But Tijjani MuhammadBande told a news conference that he hopes to announce in the next two weeks how the 193 heads of state and government will give their speeches on pressing local and world issues during the assembly’s so-called General Debate. “World leaders cannot come to New York because they cannot come simply as individuals,” he said. “A president doesn’t travel alone, leaders don’t travel alone” and “it is impossible” to bring large delegations to New York during the pandemic. “We cannot have them in person as we used to — what happened in the last 74 years — but it will happen” MuhammadBande said of the annual event. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres recommended last month that the gathering of world leaders, which was supposed to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the United Nations, be dramatically scaled back because of the pandemic. Guterres suggested in a

Sparse traffic due to coronavirus, moves past the United Nations headquarters Friday, May 15, 2020, New York. letter to the General Assembly president that heads of state and government deliver prerecorded messages instead, with only one New York-based diplomat from each of the 193 U.N. member nations present in the assembly hall. Muhammad-Bande said Monday that by late September “maybe a hundred or so” people might be allowed in the General Assembly chamber. The meeting of world leaders usually brings thousands of government officials, diplomats and civil society representatives to New York for over a week of speeches, dinners, receptions, one-on-one meetings and hundreds of side events.

This year was expected to bring an especially large number of leaders to U.N. headquarters to celebrate the founding of the United Nations in 1945 on the ashes of World War II. Muhammad-Bande said the 75th anniversary celebration “is not conceived as one moment” but will continue throughout the year starting on June 26, the 75th anniversary of the signing of the Charter of the United Nations in San Francisco. He said a political declaration on the United Nations at 75 is also being negotiated, and world leaders will have the opportunity to mark the occasion — only not in person.

Watery end for statue of slave trader in UK city of Bristol For someone who died nearly three centuries ago, Edward Colston has become a symbol for the Black Lives Matter movement in Britain. The toppling of his statue in Bristol, a city in the southwest of England, on Sunday by anti-racism protesters was greeted with joyous scenes, recognition of the fact that he was a notorious slave trader — a badge of shame in what is one of Britain’s most liberal cities. Demonstrators attached ropes to the statue before pulling it down. Footage of the moments after the statue crashed to the ground saw hundreds, if not thousands, of local Bristolians, in ecstasy. Images on social media showed protesters then appearing to kneel on the neck of the statue for eight minutes, recalling how George Floyd died in Minneapolis on May 25. The statue was then rolled into the nearby Bristol Harbour — again to rapturous scenes. Police said officers have launched an investigation and are looking for those who “committed an act of criminal damage.” Bristol Mayor Marvin Rees said the removal of the statue would “divide” opinion, but added that it was “important to listen to those

Protesters throw a statue of slave trader Edward Colston into Bristol harbour, during a Black Lives Matter protest rally, in Bristol, England, Sunday June 7, 2020. who found the statue to represent an affront to humanity and make the legacy of today about the future of our city, tackling racism and inequality.” The symbolism of the statue’s demise can’t be overstated not least because the bridge overlooking its new resting place is named Pero’s Bridge, after Pero Jones — an enslaved man who lived and died in the city in the latter part of the 18th century. Colston, who was born in 1636 to a wealthy merchant family, became prominently involved in England’s sole official slaving

company at the time, the Royal African Company, and Bristol was at the heart of it. The company transported tens of thousands of Africans across the Atlantic Ocean, mainly to work the sugar plantations in the Caribbean and cultivate the tobacco fields that were burgeoning in the new North American colony of Virginia. Each enslaved person had the company’s initials branded onto their chest. Bristol, as an international port, was at the center of the slave trade and benefited hugely financially — not just shipbuilders and slavers,

but also investors like Colston, who would buy a stake in the triangular slave voyage between England, West Africa and the Caribbean. The bronze memorial, which had been in place since 1895, had been the subject of an 11,000-strong petition to have it removed. Residents, including the city’s big community that hails from the Caribbean, are ashamed of what Colston represents. Colston has been a figure of huge controversy in Bristol with attempts made to rename Colston Hall, the biggest music venue in the city among many efforts to “decolonize” the city. Colston gave a lot of money to local charities and that helps explain why his name dons so many public buildings in the city, including educational and economic institutions. Britain formally abolished the slave trade in 1807 by an Act of Parliament but slavery itself was only formally outlawed in British territories in 1834. Overall, more than 12 million Africans are estimated to have been exported to the New World, of whom around 2 million are believed to have perished en route.

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 37

WORLD NEWS

British Airways, Ryanair and EasyJet launch World reaches 400,000 virus deaths as fight over ‘devastating’ quarantine plan British Airways, Ryanair and EasyJet have filed a formal legal challenge to the government’s quarantine policy. The airlines say the policy will have “a devastating effect on British tourism and the wider economy” and destroy thousands of jobs. They have applied for a judicial review at the High Court. The challenge claims that the quarantine rules for travellers are more stringent than those applied to people Airlines across the world have grounded aircraft amid the pandemic In a statement, the three minimum that we need just to who actually have Covid-19. The new rules came into airlines said they had not seen survive the next 12 months” •EasyJet has said it will force this week. They require any evidence on how and when most inbound travellers to self so-called “air bridges”, allowing cut up to 30% of its workforce isolate for 14 days, although quarantine-free travel between about 4,500 jobs •Virgin Atlantic, which there are more than 40 categories the UK and other countries with of incomers, largely pertaining low infection rates, could be employs 10,000 people, has said it will cut 3,000 jobs to certain workers, who are implemented. They have called on •Other European airlines exempt. Rules for those actually infected with the virus require the government instead to cutting back include Germany’s re-adopt a previous policy, Lufthansa, which on Thursday self isolation for seven days. The airlines state that where quarantine was limited said it would cut 22,000 jobs. Friday’s legal move there was no consultation and to travellers from high risk marks another sign of a no scientific evidence provided countries. The air industry has breakdown in relations between to support the policy; that weekly commuters from France been hit particularly hard by the airlines and the UK government. Willie Walsh, the boss or Germany can be exempted; coronavirus outbreak, which has and that the government all but stopped their activities. of IAG, which owns BA, Iberia and Aer Lingus, has called the is preventing people from Mass job cuts are under way: •British Airways is quarantine policy “irrational”, travelling to and from countries with lower infection rates than proposing to make 12,000 of while Ryanair boss Michael its 45,000 staff redundant, with O’Leary said the policy was the UK. However, the more than 1,000 pilot roles at a “stunt” and would not be enforceable. government has said the risk •Ryanair is set to shed Industry body Airlines quarantine period is a “proportionate and time-limited 3,000 jobs - 15% of its workforce UK has said quarantine “would approach” to protect public - with boss Michael O’Leary effectively kill off air travel”. saying the planned cuts are “the health.

Queen Elizabeth takes part in first public video call Queen Elizabeth II has taken part in her first public video conference call to chat to four carers about the challenges they face looking after people close to them during the coronavirus pandemic. As part of Carers Week in the U.K., the 94-year-old monarch showed once again that she’s adept at meeting the challenges posed by new technologies. “Interesting listening to all your tales and stories and I’m very impressed by what you have achieved already,” she said in part of the call that was posted Thursday on the royal family’s social media accounts. “I’m very glad to have been able to join you today,” she added. Elizabeth was last to join the call and the first to leave — one piece of royal protocol that Buckingham Palace opted to preserve. The queen, who has been isolating with her 99-yearold husband, Prince Philip, at Windsor Castle over the past three months, was on the call for around 20 minutes after logging in online from the castle’s Oak Room. The call took place on June 4.

Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II, as she takes part in a video conference call with the Princess Royal Princess Anne, and carers supported by the Carers Trust, on June 4, 2020. During the call, she heard about the isolation and difficulties carers have been facing through the pandemic. “What was really nice was that, while you could tell she had never done that kind of call for work before, she really took it in her stride,” said one of the people on the call, 24-yearold Alexandra Atkins, from the Welsh city of Swansea. There are around 7 million people across the U.K. caring on an unpaid basis for an ill or frail family member or friend. Most have no real experience; they just do it because they are husbands or

wives, sons or daughters, or even a neighbor who wants to help out. The queen was also joined on the call by her daughter, Princess Anne, who has been President of The Carers Trust since it was launched in 2011, and Gareth Howells, the trust’s chief executive. Other members of the royal family, including the heir to the throne Prince Charles and his son Prince William, have been joining numerous video conferencing calls throughout the pandemic to assist causes dear to them.

pope urges caution

The confirmed global death toll from the COVID-19 virus reached at least 400,000 fatalities on Sunday, a day after the government of Brazil broke with standard public health protocols by ceasing to publish updates of the number of deaths and infections in the hard-hit South American country. Worldwide, at least 6.9 million people have been infected by the virus, according to Johns Hopkins University, whose aggregated tally has become the main worldwide reference for monitoring the disease. Its running counter says United States leads the world with nearly 110,000 confirmed virus-related deaths. Europe as a whole has recorded more than 175,000 since the virus emerged in China late last year. Health experts, however, believe that the John Hopkins tally falls short of showing the true tragedy of the pandemic. Many governments have struggled to produce statistics that can reasonably be considered as true indicators of the pandemic given the scarcity of diagnostic tests especially in the first phase of the crisis. Authorities in Italy and Spain, with over 60,000 combined deaths, have acknowledged that their death count is larger than the story the numbers tell. Brazil’s government has stopped publishing a running total of coronavirus deaths and infections; critics say it’s an attempt to hide the true toll of the disease. Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro went as far as to tweet on Saturday that his country’s disease totals are “not representative” of Brazil’s current situation, insinuating that the numbers were actually overestimating the spread of the virus. Critics of Bolsonaro, who has repeatedly clashed with health experts over the seriousness of the disease and has threatened to take Brazil out of the World Health Organization, said the decision was a maneuver by the hardman-style leader to hide the depths of crisis. Brazil’s last official numbers recorded over 34,000 virus-related deaths, the third-highest toll in the world behind the U.S. and Britain. It reported nearly 615,000 infections, putting it second behind the U.S. ` After Bolsonaro stoked his clash with health experts, Pope Francis cautioned people in countries emerging from lockdown to keep following authorities’ rules on social distancing, hygiene and limits on movement. “Be careful, don’t cry victory, don’t cry victory too soon,” Francis said. “Follow the rules. They are rules that help us to avoid the virus getting ahead” again. The Argentine-born pontiff has also expressed dismay that the virus is still claiming many lives, especially in Latin America. Francis was clearly delighted to see several hundred people gathered below his window in St. Peter’s Square on Sundays for the pope’s noon blessing after Italy eased its restrictions on public gatherings. Many counties like the U.S. and Britain insist that they can ease restrictions before having stalled their outbreaks. Worries have surfaced over the past couple of weeks that Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s government is easing the restrictions too soon, with new infections potentially still running at 8,000 a day. As things stands, nonessential shops, including department stores, are due to reopen on June 15.

Page 38

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

WORLD NEWS

Prosecutors seek right mix of charges in George Floyd case

As damning as video evidence in the George Floyd case appears to be, prosecutors know they must bring the right charges underpinned by sound legal logic if they hope to convict a Minnesota officer in Floyd’s May 25 death. Exhibit No. 1 at trial is likely to be bystander video showing Officer Derek Chauvin pressing his knee into the back of Floyd’s neck as the handcuffed Floyd says he can’t breathe. Chauvin held his knee there even after the 46-year-old black man stopped moving. But strong video evidence doesn’t mean a conviction will be easy. When it comes to police officers charged with crimes in the line of duty, it never is. “This is not a shoo-in,” said Mike Brandt, a Minnesota defense attorney. “There are lots of lines prosecutors have to connect. If you raise questions about even one, you could raise reasonable doubts.” Here’s a look at some questions and answers about the charges against Chauvin and three other officers, who were all fired:

This combination of photos provided by the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office in Minnesota on Wednesday, June 3, 2020, shows Derek Chauvin, from left, J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane and Tou Thao. Chauvin is charged with second-degree murder of George Floyd, a black man who died after being restrained by him and the other Minneapolis police officers on May 25. face the same 40-year maximum.

something Floyd’s family wants. relatives’ desire for justice with a Minnesota Attorney General conviction, while also showing some Q: WHAT ARE THE ELEMENTS OF Keith Ellison, who is leading the leniency to defendants. SECOND-DEGREE MURDER? prosecution team, said he’s leaving If jurors struggle for a open the possibility of new charges. consensus, multiple charges allow A: Under Minnesota law, But first-degree murder for a compromise verdict, with unintentional second-degree murder would require a whole new level of convictions on some charges and involves causing “the death of a evidence. Prosecutors would have to acquittals on others. human being, without intent … prove premeditation and intent. It while committing or attempting to would also require a motive. Q: DID FLOYD POSE A THREAT? commit a felony offense.” Brandt said it would be a The second part of that clause stretch, adding, “I think it is out of A: A central issue in cases is crucial. Prosecutors say Chauvin the question.” alleging excessive force by police is killed Floyd while committing felony whether a suspect posed a threat. Q: WHAT ARE THE CHARGES? assault on Floyd. Q: ARE THERE RISKS OF The Supreme Court offered For third-degree murder, OVERCHARGING? guidance in a 1989 ruling, saying A: Prosecutors this week must demonstrate an officer’s fear is relevant to guilt added a new charge against the prosecutors A: Yes, especially in cases and that officers “are often forced to 44-year-old Chauvin: unintentional Chauvin caused Floyd’s death by second-degree murder. Initial actions “eminently dangerous to in which prosecutors face intense make split-second judgments.” The charges of third-degree murder and others and evincing a depraved mind, public pressure. Jurors may be reasonableness of an officer’s use more likely to acquit or become of force, it said, should be judged second-degree manslaughter remain. without regard for human life.” The complex and some argue hopelessly deadlocked in cases where “from the perspective of a reasonable Thomas Lane, J. Kueng and Tou Thao are charged with aiding and poorly defined concept of “evincing prosecutors bring charges they can’t officer on the scene, rather than with the 20/20 vision of hindsight.” abetting both second-degree murder a depraved mind” has been the prove. subject of courtroom debate, so it’s It will be hard for Chauvin’s and second-degree manslaughter. Q: SO WHAT’S THE CHARGING lawyers to argue their client felt A conviction of second- potentially harder to prove. “The second-degree murder STRATEGY? threatened or was forced to make degree murder carries a maximum a split-second decision with Floyd penalty of 40 years in prison; third- charge is far more appropriate,” A: Bringing multiple charges handcuffed behind his back, his degree murder carries up to 25 years; Brandt said. “It’s spot-on.” against the officers is a way to give face pressed into the pavement. In and manslaughter up to 10. Potential sentences for the Q: COULD FIRST-DEGREE MURDER jurors a choice. It boosts the chances the video, Chauvin appears almost of a conviction on at least one charge. nonchalant, calmly slipping his other officers depend on a conviction CHARGES BE ADDED? Prosecutors know jurors are often hand in his pocket at times. of Chauvin. If he’s convicted of A: It’s possible, and it’s torn. They often want to satisfy second-degree murder, they could

Joint Chiefs Chairman says he was wrong to accompany Trump on church walk WASHINGTON — Army Gen. Mark Milley, the nation’s top military officer, said Thursday he was wrong to accompany President Donald Trump on a walk through Lafayette Square that ended in a photo op at a church. He said his presence “created a perception of the military involved in domestic politics.” “I should not have been there,” the Joint Chiefs chairman said in remarks to a National Defense University commencement ceremony. Trump’s June 1 walk through the park to pose with a Bible at a church came after authorities used pepper spray and flash bangs to clear the park and streets of largely peaceful protesters demonstrating in the aftermath of George Floyd’s death in Minnesota in police custody. Milley’s statement risked the wrath of a president sensitive to anything hinting of criticism of events he has staged. It comes as Pentagon leaders’ relations with the White House are still tense after a disagreement last week over Trump’s threat to use federal troops to quell civil unrest triggered by Floyd’s death. Milley said his presence and the photographs compromised his

In this June 1, 2020 file photo, President Donald Trump departs the White House to visit outside St. John’s Church in Washington. Part of the church was set on fire during George Floyd protests. Walking behind Trump from left are Attorney General William Barr, Secretary of Defense Mark Esper and Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. commitment to a military divorced damage from German bombs in from politics. London during World War II. “My presence in that On Wednesday, Trump said moment and in that environment he would never allow the names to created a perception of the military be changed, catching some in the involved in domestic politics,” Milley Pentagon by surprise. said. “As a commissioned uniformed The Marine Corps last week officer, it was a mistake that I have moved ahead with a ban on public learned from, and I sincerely hope displays of the Confederate Army we all can learn from it.” battle flag on its bases, and the Milley’s comments at the Navy this week said it plans a similar National Defense University were ban applied to its bases, ships and his first public statements about the planes. Trump has not commented Lafayette Square event on June 1, publicly on those moves, which which the White House has hailed do not require White House or as a “leadership moment” for Trump congressional approval. akin to Winston Churchill inspecting Milley used his

commencement address, which was prerecorded and presented as a video message in line with social distancing due to the coronavirus pandemic, to raise the matter of his presence with Trump in Lafayette Square. He introduced the subject to his audience of military officers and civilian officials in the context of advice from an Army officer and combat veteran who has spent 40 years in uniform. He said all senior military leaders must be aware that their words and actions will be closely watched. “And I am not immune,” he said, noting the photograph of him at Lafayette Square. “That sparked a national debate about the role of the military in civil society.” He expressed regret at having been there and said the lesson to be taken from that moment is that all in uniform are not just soldiers but also citizens. “We must hold dear the principle of an apolitical military that is so deeply rooted in the very essence of our republic,” he said. “It takes time and work and effort, but it may be the most important thing each and every one of us does every single day.”

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 39

WORLD NEWS Bail set at $1 million for policeman charged with Floyd murder

Former police officer Derek Chauvin appeared by videolink in Minneapolis court for the murder of African American George Floyd. A Minneapolis judge set a $1 million bail for police officer Derek Chauvin Monday as he made his first court appearance charged with the murder of George Floyd, the 46-year-old AfricanAmerican man whose death sparked nationwide protests. Chauvin, who was filmed on May 25 pressing his knee on handcuffed Floyd’s neck until he expired, appeared by video from Minnesota state prison to face charges of one count of second degree murder, one count of third degree murder, and one count of manslaughter. Dressed in an orange prison suit, Chauvin, 44, answered questions matter-of-factly in the procedural hearing, which did not require him to submit a plea. Hennepin County District Court Jeannice Reding set his bail at $1 million with conditions, and $1.25 million without conditions. Meeting the conditions would require him to surrender his firearms, not work in law enforcement or security in any capacity, agree not to leave the state and have no contact with the family of Floyd. State prosecutor Matthew Frank had asked for a high bail, calling Chauvin a flight risk due to both the severity of the charges and the strong public reaction to the case. Reding sat a June 29 date for the next hearing in the case. Three other Minneapolis officers who were with Chauvin when Floyd was arrested have been charged with aiding and abetting the murder and are still being held in a local jail. All four were fired the day after Floyd’s death.

American Airlines set to reactivate 140-plus narrowbody aircraft In the wake of its service uptick announcement, it has been revealed that American Airlines will be bringing back more than 140 narrowbody aircraft from storage over the next few weeks. To cope with a capacity increase that will see the restoration of 55% of its planned domestic flights, the airline will bring back 83 Airbus A320 family aircraft along with 58 Boeing 737s, which had previously been stored around the US. American Airlines has seen a considerable proportion of its fleet grounded as a result of the current pandemic. The carrier has been storing aircraft in a variety of US locations, including Tulsa and Pittsburg. Now, it is making plans to bring back some of these aircraft in a move that will see it returning as many as 141 narrowbody aircraft to service in the next few weeks. As announced, AA will bring back a total of 83 Airbus A320 family aircraft along with 58 Boeing 737 jets. This is to support an increase in services during July, following a reactivation of demand that is somewhat faster than previously expected. Vasu Raja, American’s Senior Vice President of Network Strategy, commented on the announcement, saying, “We’re seeing a slow but steady rise in domestic demand. After a careful review of data, we’ve built a July schedule to match. Our July schedule includes the smallest year-overyear capacity reduction since March. We’ll continue to look

Airbus A320 for prudent opportunities to restore service so our customers can travel whenever and wherever they are ready.” American is in line with Delta and United, all three of which are looking to return more services in July than previously thought. This shows that, contrary to popular opinion, many passengers are ready and willing to fly, at least in the domestic US market. By historical standard, demand remains weak. However, these figures suggest that we may be over the worst and that demand for travel could pick up in time for carriers to snag a bit of summer leisure traffic. American says that the bookings seen are primarily to beaches, mountain states, and states with major amusement parks. American Airlines had parked around 435 aircraft as a result of the pandemic. Along with this, it had permanently retired 105 aircraft, including its Boeing 757s and 767s, as well as older short-haul planes. However, it has pressed ahead with retrofits of new cabins on its 737-800s and its A321s in preparation for a return to

service. Earlier this month, American revealed a massive systemwide capacity increase, aiming for 40% of its previously scheduled capacity to be operational in July. Domestically, 55% of its domestic flights will be restored next month, giving hope of a revival of air travel. And it’s not just American that is showing signs of recovery. Delta has brought its first 737 out of storage in Victorville and has plans in place to operate twice as many domestic flights in July as it did in May, although the exact shape of recovery is yet to be seen. American will begin service from Dallas/Fort Worth to Paris, Amsterdam and Frankfurt, as well as from Miami to Antigua, Guayaquil and Quito. A service will also take place from Chicago and New York to London’s Heathrow airport. However, some international routes, including transatlantic routes from Philadelphia and Charlotte, have been pushed back to August.

Meghan speaks out on racial divisions in US Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, has shared her sadness about racial divisions in the United States, telling students at her former high school that she felt moved to speak out because the life of George Floyd mattered. Meghan told graduates at Immaculate Heart High School in Los Angeles that she wrestled with the question of what to tell them given the days of protests after the May 25 death of Floyd, a handcuffed black man who pleaded for air as a white police officer pressed a knee on his neck in Minneapolis. She said her nervousness arose because her words would be “picked apart,” but she decided to speak anyway. “I realized the only wrong thing to say is to say nothing, because George Floyd’s life mattered,” she said in the virtual address Wednesday.

Floyd’s deaths sparked days of protests and riots in the United States. The former Meghan Markle, who is biracial, said the unrest reminded her of the riots that took place in her hometown of Los Angeles after police officers were acquitted in the video-taped beating of Rodney King in 1992. “I remember the curfew, and I remember rushing back home and on that drive home, seeing ash fall from the sky and smelling the smoke and seeing the smoke billow out of buildings and seeing people run out of buildings, carrying bags and looting,” she said. “And I remember seeing men in the back of a van holding guns and rifles, and I remember pulling up to the house and seeing the tree that had always been there, completely charred. And those memories don’t

go away.” Meghan and her husband Prince Harry, who is a grandson of Queen Elizabeth II, are seeking a new life in California after stepping away from royals duties earlier this year. Having cut off any cooperation with the British tabloid media, they have sought to independently shape their image and speak out on issues important to them.. The duchess’ video, which was first reported by the U.S. magazine Essence, offered encouragement to the graduates, urging them to consider the moments of light and humanity that emerged from the actions of peaceful protesters. Meghan said she wished the graduates were starting their young lives in a better world. “I know sometimes people say, ‘how many times do we need to rebuild?’ ” she said. “Well, you know

Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex gestures during a video address to leavers at the Immaculate Heart High School in Los Angeles. what? We are going to rebuild and rebuild and rebuild until it is rebuilt. Because when the foundation is broken, so are we.”

Page 40

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

WORLD NEWS

Biden formally clinches Democratic presidential nomination

Joe Biden has formally clinched the Democratic presidential nomination, setting him up for a bruising challenge to President Donald Trump that will play out against the unprecedented backdrop of a pandemic, economic collapse and civil unrest. “It was an honor to compete alongside one of the most talented groups of candidates the Democratic party has ever fielded,” Biden said in a statement Friday night, ”and I am proud to say that we are going into this general election a united party.” The former vice president has effectively been his party’s leader since his last challenger in the Democratic primary, Bernie Sanders, ended his campaign in April. But Biden pulled together the 1,991 delegates needed to become the nominee Friday after seven states and the District of Columbia held presidential primaries Tuesday. Biden reached the threshold three days after the primaries because several states, overwhelmed

by huge increases in mail ballots, took days to tabulate results. A team of analysts at The Associated Press then parsed the votes into individual congressional districts. Democrats award most delegates to the party’s national convention based on results in individual congressional districts. Biden now has 2,004 delegates, with contests still to come in eight states and two U.S. territories. The moment was met with little of the traditional fanfare as the nation confronts overlapping crises. zWhile Biden has started to venture out more this week, the coronavirus pandemic has largely confined him to his Wilmington, Delaware, home for much of the past three months. Biden spent 36 years in the Senate before becoming Barack Obama’s vice president. This is 77-year-old Biden’s third bid for the presidency and his success in capturing the Democratic nomination was driven by strong support from black voters. He finished an embarrassing

fourth place in the overwhelmingly white Iowa caucuses that kicked off the nomination process in February. Biden fared little better in the New Hampshire primary, where his standing was so low that he left the state before polls closed on election night to instead rally black voters in South Carolina. His rebound began in the more diverse caucuses in Nevada but solidified in South Carolina, where Biden stomped Sanders, his nearest rival, by nearly 29 points. He followed that with a dominant showing three days later during the Super Tuesday contests, taking 10 of the 14 states. Biden’s strong showing in states such as North Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee and Texas reinforced his status as the preferred Democratic candidate of African American voters — but the relationship has not been without its strained moments. After a tense exchange with an influential black radio host, Biden took sharp criticism

George Floyd hailed as ‘cornerstone of a movement’ at funeral; family calls for justice George Floyd, a black man whose death under the knee of a white police officer roused worldwide protests against racial injustice, was memorialized at his funeral on Tuesday as “an ordinary brother” transformed by fate into the “cornerstone of a movement.” During a four-hour service broadcast live on every major U.S. television network from a church in Floyd’s boyhood home of Houston, family members, clergy and politicians exhorted Americans to turn grief and outrage at his death into a moment of reckoning for the nation. The funeral followed two weeks of protests ignited by graphic video footage of Floyd, 46, handcuffed and lying face down on a Minneapolis street while an officer kneels into the back of his neck for nearly nine minutes. The video shows Floyd gasping for air as he cries out, “Mama,” and groans, “Please, I can’t breathe,” before falling silent and still. The officer, Derek Chauvin, 44, has since been charged with second-degree murder and three other officers with aiding and abetting Floyd’s May 25 death. All were dismissed from the department a day after the incident. Floyd’s dying words have become a rallying cry for hundreds of thousands of protesters around the globe who have since taken to the streets, undaunted by the coronavirus pandemic, demanding justice for Floyd and an end to mistreatment of minorities by U.S. law enforcement. “I can breathe. And as long as I’m breathing, justice will be served,” Floyd’s niece

Democratic presidential candidate former Vice President Joe Biden speaks about the coronavirus in Wilmington, Del. for suggesting that African American voters still deciding between him and Trump “ain’t black.” That comment, and protests that have spread nationwide, have increased pressure on Biden to pick an African American running mate. He has already committed to picking a woman as a vice presidential candidate. Black voters are unlikely to back Trump over Biden by a wide margin. A recent Fox News poll shows just 14% of African Americans who are registered to vote have a favorable opinion of the president compared with 75% who favorably view Biden.

Hundreds march in Hong Kong as leader urges stability

Hundreds of people marched in Hong Kong’s streets on Tuesday to mark a year since the start of anti-government protests, as the leader of the semi-autonomous city called for peace and stability. “Everyone has to learn their lesson, including the Hong Kong government,” Carrie Lam told reporters. “Hong Kong cannot bear that kind of chaos, and the people of Hong Kong want a stable and peaceful environment A man raises his hand in solidarity as the coffin of George Floyd, whose death in to be able to live and work here happily.” Lam did not elaborate on what lessons Minneapolis police custody has sparked nationwide protests against racial inequality, should be learned. is seen in a horse-drawn carriage as it enters the Houston Memorial Gardens cemetery Hundreds of protesters marched in Pearland, Texas, U.S., June 9, 2020. in Hong Kong’s central district on Tuesday Brooklyn Williams declared in a aspired to become. evening and shouted slogans including “Hong eulogy that drew applause from “God took the rejected Kong independence, the only way out” and mourners inside the Fountain of stone and made him the “Fight to the end.” Praise Church. “This is not just a cornerstone of a movement that They marched despite police warnings murder but a hate crime.” is going to change the whole that force could be used to disperse participants wide world,” Sharpton said, and that they faced up to five years in prison. ‘BIG FLOYD’ invoking a biblical parable from Riot police later charged at a group of protesters, the New Testament. deploying pepper spray and tackling some to Williams was one of Sharpton said the Floyd the ground. several relatives and friends family would lead a march on At least 25 people were arrested for who addressed the service, Washington being organized participating in unauthorized assemblies, remembering Floyd as a loving, for Aug. 28 to mark the 57th disorderly conduct and other offenses, police larger-than-life personality. anniversary of the 1963 “I Have said. Some protesters were also stopped and The memorial was punctuated a Dream” speech given from the searched by police. by gospel music and a video steps of the Lincoln Memorial by “Lawful protests are always respected montage of shared memories of civil rights leader Martin Luther but unlawful acts are to be rejected. Please stop the man affectionately known King Jr., who was assassinated in breaking the law,” police said in a tweet. as “Big Floyd.” 1968. Tuesday is the one-year anniversary His younger brother, of a huge march through central Hong Kong Terrence Floyd, spoke about ‘HOME-GOING that grew into a pro-democracy movement awakening in the middle of the CELEBRATION’ that saw protesters break into the legislative night in recent days traumatized building and take to the streets every weekend by the memory of seeing his Some 2,500 people for months. older sibling calling out for their attended the funeral, after more “The mass protest on 9 June last year mother as he lay dying. than 6,000 people filed past has been etched in the collective memory of His older brother, Floyd’s open casket on Monday. Hongkongers,” the Civil Human Rights Front, Philonise, sobbing in grief, told Two columns of uniformed which organized the event, wrote in a Facebook mourners, “George was my Houston police officers saluted post on Tuesday. “It also marks the beginning personal superman.” the golden casket as it was of our togetherness in defending our beloved Civil rights activist the wheeled from the hearse into city.” Rev. Al Sharpton called Floyd the church before the service. A Protesters also gathered in shopping “an ordinary brother” who grew horse-drawn carriage later bore malls to mark the anniversary at lunchtime, up in a housing project but left the coffin on its last mile to holding up signs and banners reading “Liberate behind a legacy of greatness the cemetery in Pearland, Texas, Hong Kong” and singing protest songs. Police despite rejections in jobs and where Floyd was buried in a closed some streets and walkways ahead of sports that prevented him private ceremony. possible protests. from achieving all that he once

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 41

WORLD NEWS

10-foot great white shark kills surfer in Australia

A 60-year-old surfer was attacked and killed by a 3-meter (10-foot) great white shark off the coast of northern New South Wales state on Sunday, officials said. The man received a bite to the back of his thigh and was Workers are lifted Notre Dame cathedral, Monday, June 8, 2020 brought to the shore by other surfers who had fought off in Paris. the shark, a surf rescue group, Surf Life Saving NSW, said in a statement. The victim, from Tugun just over the state border in Queensland, received first aid on the shore but died on the beach. “A shark biologist Works have restarted in Paris’ fireassessed photographs and ravaged Notre Dame cathedral after a hiatus confirmed a white shark was linked to the coronavirus pandemic. responsible for the fatal attack,” On Monday morning operations began the state’s Department of to dismantle scaffolding that was already in Primary Industries said. place before the April 2019 fire amid previous New South Wales restoration efforts on the old structures. Ambulance Inspector Terence This current phase of works has Savage said it was a “dreadful” been deemed highly dangerous because the situation for everyone involved. scaffolding weighs over 200 tons, and is thought “When you get a call to to have melted together in areas because of the attend a shark attack, you never heat of the blaze. really know the full extent of the Technicians will access the interior of damage until you get on scene,” the cathedral by rope to dismantle the 40,000 he said. “They did everything tubes, one by one. This phase is expected to last three months. President Emmanuel Macron announced a timeline of five years for the conservation works, a figure widely deemed unrealistic.

Building works re-start in Paris’ fire-ravaged Notre Dame

Prince Charles misses hugging his family amid virus lockdown

Britain’s Prince Charles greets members of the public as he leaves the RSC or Royal Shakespeare Company, in Stratfordupon-Avon, England, during his tour of Warwickshire and the West Midlands. Prince Charles says he has missed giving his family members a hug during the long weeks of lockdown due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The Prince of Wales also acknowledged in a interview with Sky News on Thursday that he had not seen his father, the Duke of Edinburgh for many weeks. Prince Philip, who is shielding at Windsor Castle with Queen Elizabeth II, is set to celebrate his 99th birthday next week. Speaking virtually from his Scottish home of Birkhall, Charles — the heir to the throne — was asked about being apart from his family. “Well, it’s terribly sad, let alone one’s friends,” he said. “But fortunately, at least you can speak to them on telephones and occasionally do this sort of thing. “But it isn’t the same is it? You really want to give people a hug,” he said. Charles, who himself suffered from COVID-19, said contracting coronavirus made him more determined to “push and shout and prod” for a more green approach and to have nature return to the “center of everything we do.”

In this image made from aerial video, a jet ski passes over a shark swimming along the coast of Kingscliff, New South Whales, Australia, Sunday, June 7, 2020. they could to try and save his life, but despite their best efforts, were unable to do so.” Nearby beaches were cleared of swimmers and surfers and will remain closed for 24 hours. Kingscliff resident Stuart Gonsal had just arrived at the beach ready for a surf, when he found out about the fatal attack. “We came down and we hadn’t got in the water and police were immediately hauling people in,” Gonsal told

Australian Broadcasting Corp. radio. “We found out there was a fatal shark attack on the south side of the rock wall. We were going to get in, we’re not going to now for sure.” It was the third fatal shark attack in Australia this year. In January, a diver was killed near Esperance off the Western Australia state coast. In April, a shark fatally mauled a 23-year-old wildlife worker on the Great Barrier Reef.

EU wants borders free of virus restrictions by end of June

Europe could have its free travel zone up and running again by the end of this month, but travelers from further afield will not be allowed in before July, a European Union commissioner said Friday after talks among the bloc’s interior ministers. Panicked by Italy’s coronavirus outbreak in February, countries in the 26-nation Schengen travel zone — where people and goods move freely without border checks — imposed border restrictions without consulting their neighbors to try to keep the disease out. The moves caused massive border traffic jams and blocked medical equipment. Free movement is a jewel in Europe’s crown that helps its businesses flourish and many European officials feared that the very future of the Schengen area was under threat from coronavirus travel restrictions. These added to border pressures already caused by the arrival in Europe of well over 1 million migrants in 2015. “I personally believe that we will return to a full functioning of the Schengen area and freedom of movement of citizens no later than the end of the month of June,” European Union Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson said Friday after the videoconference meeting. All but essential travel into Europe from the outside is restricted until June 15, but many ministers suggested Friday

Moviegoers watch the movie “Grease” at the Autocine Madrid Race drive-in cinema during the coronavirus outbreak in Madrid, Spain, Thursday, June 4, 2020. that they want this deadline and other health measures are extended until early July. working. More than 175,000 The meeting came as people have died in Europe’s the Czech Republic was easing coronavirus outbreak, according restrictions with some of its to a tally by Johns Hopkins neighbors; Austria, Germany University, mostly in Britain, and Hungary. Also Friday, Italy, France and Spain. Switzerland said it plans to lift “Physical distancing and restrictions on travel from EU other health-related measures nations and Britain on June 15. are still needed, of course. But Switzerland is not an EU member health authorities are clear but is part of the Schengen travel that there is no longer a clear zone. justification for either travel Johansson said Europe’s restrictions or border measures Centre for Disease Prevention within the EU Schengen area,” and Control believes that Johansson said. confinement, social distancing

Page 42

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

WORLD NEWS

Trump wanted to deploy 10,000 troops in Washington D.C., official says U.S. President Donald Trump told his advisors at one point this past week he wanted 10,000 troops to deploy to the Washington D.C. area to halt civil unrest over the killing of a black man by Minneapolis police, according to a senior U.S. official. The account of Trump’s demand during a heated Oval Office conversation on Monday shows how close the president may have come to fulfilling his threat to deploy active duty troops in U.S. cities, despite opposition from Pentagon leadership. At the meeting, Defense Secretary Mark Esper, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Mark Milley, and Attorney General William Barr recommended against such a deployment, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. The meeting was “contentious,” the official added. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Trump has since appeared satisfied with deployments by the National Guard, the option recommended by the Pentagon and a more traditional tool for dealing with domestic crises. Pentagon leaders scrambled to call governors with requests to send Guard forces to Washington. Additional federal law enforcement were mobilized too.

A grade 7 pupil returns to the Meldene Primary School in Johannesburg Monday, June 8, 2020.

President ‘worried’ as South Africa’s virus cases rise fast South Africa’s numbers of COVID-19 National Guard members look on while mounting guard at the Lincoln Memorial during are “rising fast,” according to President Cyril a protest against racial inequality in the aftermath of the death in Minneapolis police Ramaphosa, who says that he’s worried. custody of George Floyd, in Washington, U.S., June 6, 2020. More than half of South Africa’s more than But also key for Trump Trump’s first defense secretary, 50,000 confirmed cases have been recorded in the appears to have been Esper’s Jim Mattis, and retired four-star last two weeks, prompting concerns that Africa’s move to preposition — but not generals who normally try to most developed economy is about to see a steep deploy — active duty soldiers steer clear of politics. rise in infections. South Africa has the most cases from the 82nd Airborne Those comments reflect in Africa, whose 54 countries have reported more Division and other units in the deep unease inside and outside than 190,000 cases including more than 5,000 Washington D.C. area. Those the Pentagon with Trump’s deaths, according to the Africa Centers for Disease troops have since departed. willingness to inject the U.S. Control and Prevention. “Having active duty military into a domestic race South Africa, with a population of 57 forces available but not in the relations crisis following the million people, saw its COVID-19 deaths climb city was enough for the president killing of George Floyd, 46, above 1,000 Monday. for the time,” the official said. who died on May 25 after a “Like many South Africans, I, too, have Barr told CBS’s “Face Minneapolis policeman knelt on been worried as I watch these figures keep rising,” the Nation” on Sunday that his neck for nearly nine minutes. Ramaphosa wrote in his weekly letter to the nation. no active duty troops were Floyd’s death has led “While these numbers are broadly in line deployed on Washington streets, to a wave of protests and with what the various models had projected, there but there were some military national soul-searching over is a big difference between looking at a graph on police nearby. the country’s legacy of violence a piece of paper and seeing real people becoming “We had them on and mistreatment of African infected, some getting ill and some dying,” he standby in case they were Americans and other minorities. wrote. needed,” Barr said. It has also led some Pentagon Even as South Africa braces for increased Trump’s bid to militarize leaders of color to issue cases and rising numbers of those hospitalized, the the U.S. response to the protests unprecedented statements country is easing many restrictions of its 10-weekhas triggered a rare outpouring bit.ly/30mxTlD about their old lockdown. of condemnation from former experiences dealing with issues South Africa’s lockdown, imposed on U.S. military officials, including of race in the U.S. military. March 27, is credited with slowing the spread of the virus but because of the drastic economic effects Ramaphosa’s government has had to lift many restrictions to allow people to return to work. Most of South Africa’s workforce returned to their jobs at the start of this month after two months when only essential businesses were allowed to operate fully. Ramaphosa wrote the nationwide lockdown had achieved “the objective we had of delaying the spread of the virus” and “gave us time to prepare our health facilities.” But hospitals are coming under pressure, especially in the Western Cape province, which contains the city of Cape Town, and in the mainly rural Eastern Cape. A visitor carrying a South Korean flag uses binoculars to view the northern side at the Ramaphosa visited the Western Cape Imjingak Pavilion in Paju, South Korea, Tuesday, June 9, 2020. where a new 850-bed field hospital has been In its announcement, South Korean activists, including opened in a converted convention center in Cape North Korea said Tuesday’s North Korean defectors living Town. Another field hospital, a large tented facility, move was a response to South in the South, have floated huge has been erected adjacent to the Khayelitsha Korea’s failure to stop activists balloons into North Korea District Hospital in a densely packed township to from floating anti-Pyongyang carrying leaflets criticizing cope with expected overflow. leaflets across their border. leader Kim Jong Un over his The Western Cape has more than 65% of “The South Korean nuclear ambitions and human the national total, making it the hotspot for the authorities connived at the rights record. The leafleting has virus in South Africa, as well as in all of Africa. hostile acts against (North Korea) sometimes triggered a furious The disease has risen dramatically in the by the riff-raff, while trying to response from North Korea, neighboring Eastern Cape province, which will dodge heavy responsibility with which bristles at any attempt to severely test South Africa’s ability to deal with the nasty excuses,” KCNA said. undermine its leadership. virus in poor, rural areas. South Korea’s liberal South Korea has Both provinces have more cases than government, which seeks typically let activists launch the province of Gauteng, which is South Africa’s improved relations with North such balloons, citing their commercial hub including the biggest city, Korea, said that cross-border rights to freedom of speech, Johannesburg, and the capital, Pretoria. hotlines must be maintained but has halted some attempts ` Confronted by long delays in getting test as they are the basic means of when North Korean warnings results and shortages of kits, the Western Cape communication between the appeared to be serious. In 2014, province announced it will only test those over the two Koreas. The Unification North Korean troops opened fire age of 55, health workers, those being admitted to Ministry said South Korea at propaganda balloons flying hospital and those with serious health conditions. will strive to promote peace toward their territory, triggering People younger than 55 who displayed symptoms while abiding by inter-Korean an exchange of fire that caused should “presume” they have COVID-19 and agreements. no known causalities. isolate themselves to prevent further spread, said For years, conservative the provincial health authorities.

North Korea cuts off all communication with South Korea North Korea said it was cutting off all communication channels with South Korea on Tuesday, a move experts say could signal Pyongyang has grown frustrated that Seoul has failed to revive lucrative interKorean economic projects and persuade the United States to ease sanctions. The North’s Korean Central News Agency said all cross-border communication lines would be cut off at noon in the “the first step of the determination to completely shut down all contact means with South Korea and get rid of unnecessary things.” When South Korean officials tried to contact their North Korean counterparts via several channels after the North’s announcement Tuesday, the North Koreans didn’t answer, according to the South Korean government. North Korea has cut communications in the past — not replying to South Korean phone calls or faxes — and then restored those channels when tensions eased. North Korea has been accused at times of deliberately creating tensions to bolster internal unity or to signal its frustration over a lack of progress in nuclear talks with Washington.

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 43

WORLD NEWS

‘A big test’: Hard-hit New York City begins reopening After three gloomy months and 21,000 deaths that made it the nation’s most lethal hot spot, New York City slowly began reopening Monday in the biggest test yet of Americans’ ability to keep the coronavirus in check. Stores previously deemed nonessential were cleared to reopen for delivery and curbside pickup, though customers cannot yet browse inside. Construction, manufacturing and wholesalers also received the goahead to resume work. “So far, so good,” construction management company owner Frank Sciame said as job sites started humming again, with new precautions such as health screening questionnaires and lower limits on the number of workers allowed in construction hoists. “Let’s hope it continues.” “New York,” he said, “will always come back.” Some major store chains took it slow: Macy’s declined to give a date for starting curbside pickup at its flagship store, where smashand-grab thieves hit amid last week’s protests over George Floyd’s death. Saks Fifth Avenue, which girded itself with razor wire last week, and Tiffany’s may launch pickup service later this week. Owners of smaller shops were eager to reopen, even if they didn’t expect much business. “We are going to be open every day for the sake of showing life,” said eyewear designer Ahlem Manai-Platt, who was reopening a lower Manhattan store. Mayor Bill de Blasio

Pedestrians wear face coverings and protective masks as they cross Mains street, Monday, June 8, 2020, in the Flushing section of the Queens borough of New York. welcomed the reopenings as a sign two dozen. New hospitalizations, of New York’s resilience. But he which topped 800 a day for a time, also warned the city against letting were down to 67 on Saturday. its guard down and jeopardizing its Reopening the economy hard-won progress against the virus: could spark a resurgence of the virus “Let’s hold onto it. Let’s build on it.” as people circulate more. Unrest over racism and “All eyes will be on New York police brutality could compound this next couple of months,” said the challenges facing the nation’s urban policy expert Jonathan Bowles, biggest city as it tries to move past executive director of the Center for the coronavirus crisis. Officials who an Urban Future. “The city now has had focused for months on public to prove that it really knows what health and economic woes are now it’s doing, that it can still be a dense also facing urgent pressure for police city like New York and yet figure this reform. out.” New York City accounts Sam Solomon wondered for roughly 1 in 5 of the more what normal will look like from now than 110,000 coronavirus deaths on. nationwide. “I don’t know if it’s ever At its peak, the virus killed going to be like it was,” said Solomon, more than 500 people a day in 22, who has a health-related job. the city in early to mid-April. The After months of relative isolation, number has since dropped below “it’s going to be an adjustment

Portland police chief resigns amid George Floyd protests Portland’s police chief resigned on Monday, just six months into her job, amid criticism of her department’s handling of protests in Oregon’s largest city. An African American lieutenant on the force replaced her. The shakeup came as police have been sharply criticized for using what has been called inappropriate force against some protesters as huge demonstrations continue in Portland. “To say this was unexpected would be an understatement,” new Police Chief Chuck Lovell said at a news conference. “I’m humbled. I’m going to listen. I’m going to care about the community, and I’m looking forward to this journey.” He and community leaders of color credited Jami Resch, a white woman, for stepping down as George Floyd protests roiled the city. Resch told the news conference that Lovell is “the exact right person at the exact right moment” to head the police department. Resch had replaced Danielle Outlaw, who was Portland’s first African American female police chief and who became Philadelphia police commissioner in February. Resch said she suggested the shakeup to Mayor Ted Wheeler, who said he supported Lovell to lead the department as it moves through needed reforms. “We need Chief Lovell’s leadership,” Wheeler said at the news conference. “We must re-imagine reform and rebuild what public safety looks like.” Lovell served as Outlaw’s executive assistant. Under Resch, he led

a new Community Services Division that included the Behavioral Health Unit, The Oregonian/OregonLive reported. The unit’s mission, according to its web page, is to aid people in crisis resulting from mental illness and/or drug and alcohol addiction. Resch said she will stay with the department in a different role. Demonstrators held two peaceful George Floyd protests in Portland but a third one that lasted until the early hours of Monday resulted in at least 20 arrests, with some demonstrators throwing objects at police, who fired tear gas and spongetipped projectiles. Full beverage containers, glass bottles, hard-boiled eggs and rocks were thrown or fired at officers using sling-shots, police said in a statement Monday. A medic who was working with the officers was hit in the stomach with a rock. The protest that turned violent happened at the Justice Center in downtown Portland. The ACLU of Oregon has called on Portland police to end the use of tear gas, impact weapons and flash bang devices. “We join the protesters in calling for a new approach in our community, and demanding that we uphold the rights of people who have historically had their rights and humanity denied,” the rights group said Sunday. Portland City Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty, who is African American, slammed the recent police response to some protests.

being around so many people,” said the native New Yorker, who never thought she would have to get used to crowds. Restaurant chef Edwin Arce, 31, said he sees a city “ready to be back, start going out, living life — with the new reality, though.” Around the world, the coronavirus has killed more than 400,000 people, with the toll rising by thousands every day. The virus is sill raging in places such as Brazil, which over the weekend stopped reporting its death toll after it had passed 34,000, the third-highest in the world, behind the U.S. and Britain. World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus cautioned that the pandemic is worsening, with a record-breaking 136,000 cases reported worldwide on Sunday. New York City, population 8.3 million, has already reawakened somewhat as warm weather drew people outdoors, more restaurants offered takeout service, and thousands of people marched in protest over Floyd’s death at the hands of Minneapolis police. Subway ridership is ticking back up after plunging from 5.4 million rides per weekday in February to under 450,000 in April, the city’s transit agency says. Subway schedules are returning to normal, though workers are dispensing masks and hand sanitizer, signs show riders how far apart to stand on platforms, and the 1 a.m.-to-5 a.m. shutdowns that began in May will continue so trains can be cleaned.

A Brief History of the White House Bunker At the height of the protests last Friday night in Washington, D.C., President Trump was taken, according to several news outlets, to a secure underground bunker for his safety. You might ask: “There’s a bunker at the White House?” In fact, there are several. Plus numerous escape tunnels. Here, a breakdown of these confirmed—and rumored— secure spaces. Primary Bunker: Presidential Emergency Operations Center This is the most widely known about and publicly acknowledged bunker and likely the place where President Trump was taken during the protests. Former First Lady Laura Bush described being escorted there during the September 11, 2001 attacks in her book Spoken From the Heart: “I was now in one of the unfinished subterranean hallways, heading for the PEOC, the Presidential Emergency Operations Center, built for President Franklin Roosevelt during World War II. We walked along old tile floor with pipes hanging from the ceiling and all kinds of mechanical equipment. The PEOC is designed to be a command center during emergencies, with televisions, phones, and communications facilities.” Located somewhere underneath, or adjacent to, the White House’s East Wing, The Presidential Emergency Operations Center (PEOC) comprises offices and other facilities, including the conference room where President Bush met with Dick Cheney, Condoleezza Rice, and other members of his administration in the days following the attacks.

The PEOC facilities have been upgraded numerous times over the years, including after 9/11, when, as the journalist Garret M. Grath wrote in his book Raven Rock, Vice President Dick Cheney complained to National Security Coordinator Richard Clarke, “The Comms [communication services] in this place are terrible.” Rumored Bunker: A TopSecret New-ish Underground Facility In 2010, excavation began around the White House’s West Wing for a $300 million systems upgrade, which spurred months of speculation about the construction of a new secret bunker. Earlier this week, Ronald Kessler, the author of The Trump White House: Changing the Rules of the Game, told the Washington Post, “What it consists of is five stories deep into the ground with its own air supply and food supply....It is sealed off from the aboveground area so that if there were, for example, a nuclear attack, the radiation would not penetrate into this bunker, which has very thick concrete walls and that sort of thing.” Bunkerlike Structure: The White House to Treasury Building Tunnel. This winding tunnel is not really a bunker, although it could serve as a place to shelter during a bombing or, say, if protestors overran the White House. It was dug during World War II in case President Roosevelt needed to be evacuated during an aerial attack. Supposedly it was also used over the years by members of various administrations to sneak dates into the White House for after-hour tours.

Page 44

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

the Commissioner of Labour& Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range:$50,000 – $60,000 per annum DATE OPEN: June 4, 2020 START DATE: ASAP POSITION: Pool and Beach Supervisor PROPERTY:West Bay Club

OPEN JOB POSITION DATE OPEN: June 4, 2020 START DATE: ASAP POSITION: Director of Spa & Boutique, GBR PROPERTY: Grace Bay Resorts Job Summary:Accountable for the day to day operations of The Anani Spa & Boutique outlets with the responsibility of the department and area. Ensure that Grace Bay Resorts (GBR) Values and Mission are understood and practiced in all outlets by maintaining a well-trained, efficient and professional staff whose focus will be on providing a memorable guest experience while perfecting the basics and creating spontaneous handmade experiences. Maintain a financially efficient operation with a keen focus on revenue generation, inventory turn, and profitability. Essential Function •Ensure all guests are being treated in an efficient and courteous manner and that all GBC standards are being applied and exceeded. •Responsible for the hiring, training, and direction of new & existing department Associates. Ensure all Associates are being mentored, coached, and developed. (Inclusive of Forbes & Leading Hotels of the World). •Responsible for the generation of revenues and obtaining yearly budgeted goals for revenue and profitability. Work in conjunction with accounting to maintain an accurate inventory, timely invoice payments, accurate expenses and accurate payroll. Conduct quarterly physical inventory counts. •Ensure that The Anani Spa & Boutique service standards are complied with and that policies and procedures are consistently applied. •Attend all required Operational Meetings, Rooms Meetings, HR Meetings/Activities and Trainings. •Assist in the daily maintenance and organization of the outlets to achieve optimal levels of revenues while maintaining high levels of guest expectations. •Ensure the timely completion of performance appraisals. Job Requirements •Responsible for budgeting, forecasting, financial planning and management of The Anani Spa & Boutique Operations. •Responsible for sales to guests through The Anani Spa & Boutique areas (performance indicators are sales, profits, growth, turnover, etc.) •Responsible for the implementation and training of standard operating policies (SOPs) for The Anani Spa & Boutique. •Responsible for promoting the product and services to the targeted guests. Develop promotional programs, point of sales materials, merchandising activities for The Anani Spa & Boutique. •Responsible for enhancing the product and service for the GBC guest. Recommend changes to the product and services. Research innovative ways to better the services of The Anani Spa & Boutique. •Responsible for maintaining quality of product and ensuring consistency in its delivery/standards. •Any other duties as assigned by the Executive Assistant Manager – Rooms. •Additional duties as necessary and assigned. Specific Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities •Must be able to speak, read, write and understand English in the workplace. •Must be able to read and write to facilitate the communication process. •Requires good communication skills, both verbal and written. •Must possess basic computational ability. •Must possess solid computer skills. •Ability to supervise subordinate staff, including, but not limited to, assignment of duties, evaluating service and taking disciplinary action when necessary. •Ability to solve problems and make rational decisions. •Knowledge of Resort operations, its services, and facilities. Physical Demands •Most work tasks are performed indoors, but includes outdoor functions. •Position requires walking and giving direction most of the working day. •Must be able to exert well-paced ability to reach different outlets and other departments of the Resort on a timely basis. •Must be able to exert well-paced ability in limited space. •Must be able to bend, stoop, squat and stretch to fulfill cleaning tasks. •Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. on a regular and continuing basis. •Talking and hearing occur continuously in the process of communicating with guests, supervisors and subordinates (including attending Company Socializing Events like Managers Cocktail Party). •Requires manual dexterity to use and operate all necessary equipment. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker Qualified Islanders need only to apply copying applications to

Job Description: Directs and organizes the activities of the Pool & Beach departments to maintain the high standards of the Pool & Beach and food and beverage quality. Plans and directs the functions of administration and planning of the Pool & Beach department to meet the daily needs of the operation. Implements effective controls of labor costs. Ensures compliance with health, safety, sanitation and alcohol awareness standards. Interviews, trains, supervise, counsels, schedules and evaluate staff. Adherence to establish policies, standards and procedures are required at all times in order to achieve high levels of customer satisfaction, quality service, compliance with corporate policies and procedures and local regulations. Job Requirements: •Manage and oversee pool and beach attendants: Plan and organize workloads and staff assignments for staff •Meet regularly with staff for briefing and training •Monitor time sheets and prepare payroll reports •Ensure that all equipment and tools are available and to give the guests the best vacation possible This position is currently held by an expatriate worker Qualified Islanders need only to apply copying applications to the Commissioner of Labour& Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range: $1,500 - $1,700 per month DATE OPEN: June 4, 2020 START DATE: ASAP POSITION: Senior A/C Technician PROPERTY: Grace Bay Club Job Overview:Air-conditioning and Cooler Technician or A/C Technician is responsible in conducting maintenance check and repairs for air-con and other cooling or heating system. Responsibilities: •Conduct maintenance check for air-con, heaters and coolers •Install Air-con and heaters. •Repair damage and dysfunctional air-con, heaters and coolers •Check its functions and status •Change spare parts •Document the reported damage of the air-con, heaters or cooler •Check the its major parts •Conduct daily routine for inspections •Check leakage Requirements: •Must have at least 5 years’ experience as a A/C Technician Full time. Weekend and holiday work may be required. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker Qualified Islanders need only to apply copying applications to the Commissioner of Labour& Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range:$9.50 - $10.20 per hour DATE OPEN: June 4, 2020 START DATE: ASAP POSITION: Waiter (2) PROPERTY: Grace Bay Club Job Overview: Prepare tables with special attention to sanitation and order. Attend to customers upon entrance. Present menus and help customers select food/beverages. Take/serve orders and answer questions or make recommendations for other products. Deal with complaints or problems with a positive attitude. Issue bills and accept payment. The individual must be well groomed, clean and polite. Previous experience is a must and should be able to speak and write English. Shifts varies. Full time. Weekend and holiday work may be required. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker Qualified Islanders need only to apply copying applications to the Commissioner of Labour& Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range: $6.75 - $7.25 per hour DATE OPEN: June 4, 2020 START DATE: ASAP POSITION: IT Professional PROPERTY: Grace Bay Resorts Requirements:IT Systems Administration experience; Strong knowledge of VMWare, NAS, SQUID, WEBMIN; Strong knowledge of In-House Surveillance camera systems; Knowledge of Microsoft 2xxx Server architecture such as roles, networking etc.; Knowledge of Microsoft Active Directory; Knowledge of SAN/NAS storage system; Knowledge of Remote Desktop; Knowledge in Linux operating system; Knowledge in configuring squid proxy access policy; Knowledge in Virtual Private Network (VPN); Experience in Point of Sale Jonas system and Jonas Accounting software; Experience in Micros OPERA administration; Experience in SaflokDoorlock system administration; Basic Knowledge in Electronics system; Experience

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 45

This position is currently held by an expatriate worker Qualified Islanders need only to apply copying applications to the Commissioner of Labour& Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range: $6.25 - $6.50 per hour DATE OPEN: June 4, 2020 POSITION: Line Cook

OPEN JOB POSITION in Avotus Call Accounting system; Basic Knowledge in Night Audit Daily activities:Be responsible for server infrastructure support and maintenance (Linux Ubuntu) and Windows Server and workstation; Responsible to troubleshoot electronics systems (TV, Sound Systems, PA Systems); Responsible to troubleshoot Doorlock systems; Responsible to troubleshoot Guest internet and Office internet connection; Provide email configuration and support; Responsible daily POS transaction and report; Responsible OPERA PMS operation; Responsible surveillance camera system This position is currently held by an expatriate worker Qualified Islanders need only to apply copying applications to the Commissioner of Labour& Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range:$40,000 - $50,000 per annum DATE OPEN: June 4, 2020 START DATE: ASAP POSITION: Housekeeper PROPERTY: Point Grace Job Overview:We are looking for a professional Housekeeper able of attending to our facilities with integrity and attention to detail. The goal is to create a clean and orderly environment for our guests that will become a critical factor in maintaining and strengthening our reputation. Responsibilities: •Perform a variety of cleaning activities such as sweeping, mopping, dusting and polishing •Ensure all rooms are cared for and inspected according to standards •Protect equipment and make sure there are no inadequacies •Notify superiors on any damages, deficits and disturbances •Deal with reasonable complaints/requests with professionalism and patience •Check stocking levels of all consumables and replace when appropriate •Adhere strictly to rules regarding health and safety and be aware of any company-related practices

START DATE: ASAP PROPERTY: Grace Bay Club

Job Overview:A Line Cook’s major responsibility is to prepare food, help the kitchen workers in the preparation of food items and set up allocated stations for menu, as instructed by Chef and compliant with standards. They also arrange, prepare and break down the stations while maintaining the uppermost hygienic standards. Shifts vary. Full time. Weekend and holiday work may be required. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker Qualified Islanders need only to apply copying applications to the Commissioner of Labour& Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range: $6.75 - $7.25 per hour DATE OPEN: June 4, 2020 POSITION: Houseman

START DATE: ASAP PROPERTY: Grace Bay Club

Job Responsibilities:A houseman’s primary job duties include cleaning and maintaining guest rooms, bathrooms, work areas, furnishings and carpets. Cleaning rooms includes duties such as changing bed linens and emptying trash as well as vacuuming carpets and dusting furniture. You’ll also replenish guest supplies, such as hand soap and shampoo. Your duties don’t end with guest rooms, however, because you’re responsible for cleaning common areas, such as banquet and meeting rooms. Secondary duties may include shoveling snow from walkways, assisting bellmen, answering guest questions and helping the front desk person. This position is currently held by an expatriate worker Qualified Islanders need only to apply copying applications to the Commissioner of Labour& Work Permit Board Zone 2 Salary Range: $6.25 - $7.10 per hour Interested persons can contact our Human Resources Department no later than June 18, 2020 @ (649) 946-5050 Ext. 1020 Email: humanresources@gracebayclub.com Fax: (649) 946-5758 P.O. Box 128 Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, British West Indies

GOVERNMENT VACANCIES (APPLICATION DEADLINE: 12TH JUNE 2020) JOB REFERENCE NO: JOB TITLE: MINISTRY: DEPARTMENT: LOCATION: SALARY:

APB1-20-74 Registrar Education, Youth, Culture, Social and Library Services TCI TVET Institution Providenciales Grade 6 - $33,415.00

JOB SUMMARY: Reporting to the Director/Principal, the Registrar is responsible for the administration of policies and procedures to guide the admission, registration, records management and student affairs/services activities of the Campus. JOB REFERENCE NO: JOB TITLE: MINISTRY: DEPARTMENT: LOCATION: SALARY:

APB1-20-74 Dean Education, Youth, Culture, Social and Library Services & TCI TVET Institution Providenciales Grade 5.1 - $26,650.00

JOB SUMMARY: The Dean is responsible for providing effective leadership in the implementation of strategic and operational plans and policies; directing the academic, financial and administrative functions of the TVET Institution. The Dean is therefore responsible for managing the administrative and academic functions of the Campus, ensuring the delivery of quality training programmes in preparing a pool of certified, competent workers for the development and maintenance of the Turks and Caicos workforce at excellent standard. Additionally, the Dean is also responsible for establishing and managing the income generating, micro Training Based Enterprises.

For full details regarding this position please visit our website at https://www.gov.tc/government-vacancies Please note: (Applications that are not accompanied by all required supporting documents will not be processed). (APPLICATION DEADLINE: 12TH JUNE 2020)

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS GOVERNMENT

The Judicial Service Commission The Judicial Service Commission of the Turks and Caicos Islands invites applications for the positions of 2 MAGISTRATES SALARY PER MAGISTRATE: $59,552.52 per annum (tax free) The 2 post-holders will each be responsible for the conduct of: (1) The Magistrate’s Court in Grand Turk, with additional responsibility for court sittings at South Caicos Magistrate’s Court. (2) The Magistrate’s Court at Providenciales. Both magistrates will handle cases regarding criminal, traffic, youth justice, juvenile (care and protection), guardianship and custody of children, maintenance/ affiliation, civil matters and coroner’s inquests in their respective courts. RENUMERATION PACKAGE: PROFESSIONAL ALLOWANCE - $6,000 per annum TELEPHONE ALLOWANCE - $1,800 per annum TRANSPORTATION ALLOWANCE - $ 2,760 per annum HOUSING ALLOWANCE – $120,250.00 per annum Please submit completed applications to: James Astwood Secretary, Judicial Services Commission Waterloo, Grand Turk Turks and Caicos Islands Applications can be sent by facsimile to 649 946-2903 or sent by email to Jaastwood@gov.tc with the subject line : MAGISTRATE APPLICATION. If sent by courier, envelopes should have the subject: MAGISTRATE APPLICATION clearly marked on the front. PLEASE NOTE THAT ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED FOR INTERVIEWS. Closing date: 15th June 2020

Page 46

CBMS

STAGE BAR Location: Building #14, William’s Plaza, Lower Bight, Providenciales, TCI Is looking for the following: Four (4) Barmaids -$1,000 a month One (1) Janitor - $6. 50 per hour Janitor duties includes perform general clean up of all areas of the building as directed Manage routine upkeep of exterior areas Barmaids duties includes preparing alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages for bar and patrons and interacting with customers, taking orders and serving drinks. •Must have experience at least 3-4 years Please Contact 344-8644 or email: browill649@gmail.com Two of the Barmaid positions are held by Work Permit Holders and the other two positions are new The Janitor position is new Applicants who are Turks & Caicos Islanders should also send copies of their application to the Labour board

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

ERB Construction J.D.S Construction

WANTED Location: Bottle Creek, North Caicos, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking One (1) Bar Maid Salary: $6.50 per hour Must be able to work 6 days a week Working hours range from 7:30am-3:00pm Duties Includes: Meeting and greeting customers, serving drinks, keeping bar and restaurant area cleaned and free of harmful elements and other duties created by the Supervisor This position is currently held by a Work Permit Holder Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders can send a copy of their applications to the Labour Board Interested persons can submit applications to Mr. Alpheus Gardiner, Bottle Creek, North Caicos Telephone Number: 231-0005 or email: aagardiner@hotmail.com

Location: #32 Blue Hills, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking to hire a STEEL MAN To work on Construction Sites From Monday – Saturday, 8:00am – 5:00pm Salary is $9.00 an hour Please Email: erbconstruction@tciway.tc This position is currently held by a Work Permit Holder Interested Turks and Caicos Islander applicants must send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board

Location: New Subdivision, Behind George Hinson #97, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Is seeking a Carpenter Duties include: Installing structures and fixtures, such as windows and molding. Measure, cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials To work 6 days a week Salary is $8.00 per hour Please Contact: 331-1505 This position is new Interested Belongers must submit their application to the Labour Board

Toriano Williams

LOUISE MCINTOSH

HUMPHREY PROSPERE

Location: Jupa Sound #104, Marby Drive, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking a Domestic Worker Must be able to do general cleaning, speak English, honest and trustworthy To work 5 days a week Salary is $6.25 per hour Please Contact: 246-5103 This position is currently held by a Work Permit Holder Interested Turks and Caicos Islander applicants must send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board #195250

Location: Long Bay Hills, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking a Labourer For full time work Must be reliable and hard working Remuneration: $6.50 per hour based on experience and qualification This position is currently held by a Work Permit Holder If interested, please email your resume to: Williams_toriano@ Hotmail.com copying same to the Turks and Caicos Islands Labour Department and Immigration

In South Caicos Is seeking a Domestic Worker To work 5 days per week Duties include house cleaning, cooking and laundry Salary: $ 6.25 per hour Please contact 347-3017 This is a new position Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders are encouraged to send a copy of their application to the Labour Board

In Grand Turk Is seeking a Labourer To clean and maintain job sites of a construction company and assist where needed on site Salary: $ 7.00 per hour Must work 5 days per week Please contact 241-0990 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

KALOOKI’S

Belle Femme Rose

Henn Holdings Ltd.

Provo Discount Ltd.

Location: #1 Le Vele Plaza, Grace Bay Rd, Grace Bay, Providenciales, TCI Is seeking a COOK Salary $7.00 p/h Duties: Cleans food preparation areas as determined by law and company policy. Prepares foods to the specifications of the Client Please Contact: Tel: 649-332-3388 Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the labour board. This position is currently held by work permit holder

Location: La Vista Azul, Unit #14, Turtle Cove, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking Two (2) Nail Technician Duties: Perform manicure/ Pedicure, Nail Polishing, Acrylic nails and must be able to treat each client with excellent services To work 6 days a week Salary is $6.25 per hour Please Contact: +1 (649) 232-9275 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

dba Shay Cafe Lounge Location: Grace Bay, Providenciales, TCI Looking for a CHEF Must have experience & excellent communication skills Must be flexible and willing to work early mornings, weekends and holidays. Must be dependable, willing to work with a flexible schedule between the hours of 5am-4pm. Must have excellent physical condition and stamina for fast paced environment. Salary based on experience. Position held by work permit holder Please forward resume to: hennholdings@gmail.com Interested Belongers must submit their application to the Labourer Board

Location: Unit 1, Central Square, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Seeking: Four (4) Domestic Workers Duties: Operate Cash Register with POS system, Greet Customers, Inventory, Stock and Tidy Store Salary: $6.25/hr Positions currently held by work permit holders CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS IS JUNE 15, 2020 Applications can be dropped off at the office, Immigration Board, and/or emailed to pdl@tciway.tc

Caicos Bakery & Retail LTD

Agnes Jestina Swann

Linley Goldman

Oswald Wilson

Location: #295 Governors Road, Grace Bay Road (behind Caicos café), Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Is seeking suitable qualified applicants to fill the following position: Baker & Pastry Chef Specialized in gluten free and organic products Have 5yrs experience in similar position Excellent Interpersonal skills Excellent written & verbal communication Ability to work within a team Must be a team player Suitable qualified candidates should apply in writing or send resume to: Phone (649)242-2266(Eric) Please Email: bakerytc@gmail.com These positions are currently held by Work Permit Holders Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders should also send copies of their application to the Labour Board #195245

Location: North Caicos, Turk and Caicos Islands Is seeking a Maintenance Worker To deliver quality grounds maintenance services at the highest standard Must be able to work 5 days week Salary is $9.00 per hour Please Contact: 246-7382 This position is currently held by a work Permit Holder Interested Belongers must submit their application to the Labourer Board

In South Caicos Is seeking a Labourer To assist with masonry work Must work 5 days per week Salary: $8.00 per hour Please contact 241-7477 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

Is seeking one Fisherman On the Island of South Caicos Pay is $300.00 per week Applicants must be able to fish, swim, clean and pack seafood products This positon is currently held by a Work Permit Holder Please contact 343 – 0456 Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders must submit copied of their applications to the Labour Board

Norman Cox/ Seaview Market / Ocean and Beach Resort Is seeking Domestic workers, Laborers, Bar Maid and chef/cook Applicants must be able to clean, wash, iron, left at least 50lbs, mix drinks and serve Pay is minimum wage These positions are currently held by Work Permit Holders Please Contact 232 – 4554 Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders must submit copied of their applications to the Labour Board

CAICOS PRIDE PRODUCTS LTD

INSIGHT LTD

Diosa Haven

Alden Durham

Kasey N. Pierre

Location: 131 South Dock Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking One (1) Carpenter Salary is $15.00 per hour Duties include: Installing structures and fixtures, such as windows and molding. Measure, cut, or shape wood, plastic, and other materials Must be able to work 6 days a week Please Contact: 331-0221 or 941-3400 This position currently held by Work Permit Holder Interested Belongers must submit their application to the Labour Board

Robert Williams

Location: South Caicos, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking a Fisherman To work 5-6 days per week Duties includes: Fishing, Diving and maintaining of vessel Salary: Boat Share Interested persons please contact 649-232-3320 or email: islandcrops@tciway.tc This position is currently held by a work permit holder Interested Turks & Caicos are encouraged to send a copy to the Immigration Board

#195247

Location: #5 Eddie Laporte Plaza, Academy Ave. Providenciales Is seeking a Kitchen Helper Duties: Clean kitchen areas and wash dishes and help workers who prepare or serve food and beverages Salary $7.00 P/H Please Contact 399-9000 This position is currently held by a Work Permit Holder Belongers are encouraged to send a copy of their resume to the Labour Board

#195253

Location: #64 yellow Elder Street, Leeward Palms, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking One (1) MAID Duties: For the above position, applicants must have a willing, positive and personable attitude as well as they should also enjoy working with people and be willing to learn Include General Cleaning To work 6 days a week Salary is $6.50 per hour Please Contact: 1 (649) 431-8452 This position is currently held by a Work Permit Holder Interested Belongers must submit their application to the Labourer Board

# 195251

#195254

Is seeking one Domestic Worker On the Island of South Caicos Pay is $300.00 per week Applicants must be able to clean, wash, iron and cook This position is currently held by a Work Permit Holder Please contact 331 – 4000 Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders must submit copied of their applications to the Labour Board #195249

WANTED

Location: Bottle Creek, North Caicos, Turks and Caicos Islands Is seeking One (1) Labourer Salary: $6.50 per hour Must be able to work 6 days a week Working hours range from 7:30am - 4:00pm Duties Includes: Assisting with maintenance of property, collecting and disposing of debris from the premises and other unskilled tasks as directed This position is currently held by a Work Permit Holder Applicants who are Turks and Caicos Islanders can send a copy of their applications to the Labour Board Interested persons can submit applications to Mr. Alpheus Gardiner, Bottle Creek, North Caicos Telephone Number: 231-0005 or email: aagardiner@hotmail.com

# 195251

TC Industrial Services LTD

Location: #32 Industrial Park, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Is seeking One (1) 5- year experience GAS TECHNICIAN With knowledge of residential, commercial, industrial and service call This position is available immediately Salary is $600.00/week This position requires a flexible schedule (to include holidays and weekends) and extended hours on occasion Applicants are required to submit applications to Joseph Simms of Tc Industrial Services Via email tcisimms@yahoo.com or contact 941-4051 or call: 232-0088 and the Immigration Boards Zone 1 CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATION: JUNE 15TH, 2020 #195246

Is seeking one Fisherman On the Island of South Caicos Pay is $300.00 per week Applicants must be able to fish, swim, clean and pack seafood products This position is currently held by a Work Permit Holder Please contact 346 – 5216 Interested Turks and Caicos Islanders must submit copied of their applications to the Labour Board

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 47

LIFE STYLE WORLD NEWS Winging it: Paris gallery keeps visitors apart with extension hats

Hats with winged extensions for visitors. An art gallery in Paris has sought inspiration in ancient China to help it enforce social distancing, by providing hats with winged extensions for visitors. The colourful papier-mâché hats are modelled on headgear from the Song dynasty, which ruled China between 960 and 1279, with extensions just long enough to keep wearers the one metre (three feet) apart stipulated in France’s COVID-19 regulations. The first Song emperor is said to have ordered his officials to wear winged hats so that they could not gossip without being heard. “Back in the day, these were worn to prevent public officials from whispering,” Dominique Pouzol, who designed the hats for the 59 Rivoli gallery, told Reuters. “And so, there was already then this notion of social distancing.” Some of Pouzol’s creations carry a political message too, painted in the colours of the rainbow is a nod to gay rights. “The hats are to protect us from COVID-19,” Pouzol said. “But I said to myself perhaps they can also shield us from ...human viciousness, from smallminded people.”

They call it puppy love: Lockdown Britain sees surge in demand for dogs British breeders of puppies have seen a huge surge in demand for dogs during the lockdown and now fear that many families will give them up once they realise the scale of the responsibility ahead. Millions of Britons have spent almost three months largely confined to their homes to counter the spread of COVID-19, a time when the Kennel Club group has seen a 180% rise on last year in inquiries from people wanting to buy dogs. Many breeders are worried that some Britons may be wanting to buy a puppy to keep the children entertained without realising the time, money and effort that goes into maintaining a dog over its lifetime. Fearful that some dogs could be handed in to rescue centres once life returns to normal, breeders are seeking as

much information as possible on potential new owners and rejecting those inquiries that do not appear to have been thought through. “Generally it’s ‘I want a blue-eyed, black and white Siberian. I want a boy, how much is it and can I collect it tomorrow?’” said Christine Biddlecombe who breeds Siberian Husky dogs with her husband Stephen. They have gone from having one or two inquiries a week via the Kennel Club to receiving three or four a day, with some even arriving in the early hours of the morning. Jenny Campbell, a breeder in Suffolk in eastern England, said most breeders were cautious. “This is a lifetime decision, not just a Covid decision,” she added. Britain is a nation of dog-lovers, from the Queen and her corgis to Prime

Puppies

Minister Boris Johnson’s Jack Russell. The Kennel Club’s Bill Lambert said some breeders had hiked their prices and he worried that buyers would look abroad where welfare standards can be lower.

From producer to wearer -- lifecycle of the humble face mask The humble mask has become a universal symbol of the new coronavirus pandemic and a crucial means of limiting contagion. But where do they come from? Where are they mandatory? What do they cost and where do they end up?

Oklahoma, the mayor dropped an order insisting on masks in shops after some residents, seeing an infringement of civil liberties, threatened store employees. Austrians have been more compliant with demands to don masks both in stores and on public transport -- the latter requirement is Contrasting cover-up rationales now in force in France. At the outset of the pandemic, Wearing a mask has been French authorities indicated facial quite common in much of eastern protection was not necessary -- stocks Asia since the SARS epidemic of 2002- were in any case in short supply. 2003 made it a “daily, recreational, personalised” item, says medical Mind the production gap anthropologist Christos Lynteris. In Japan, wearing surgical Supply has been a major style masks is common in winter and problem -- the bulk of production spring, both as a means of protecting being Asian in origin with China oneself and others from infection. producing around 50 percent of In contrast, in Europe global stocks of surgical varieties. wearing one has been rare -- in With the pandemic starting France, the post-revolution spirit in China, the country felt bound to of enlightenment means a “citizen distribute on home soil first. presents himself face uncovered “Once the need for masks in in public spaces”, anthropologist China exploded our subcontractor Frederic Keck told Le Monde. firms in China no longer had the Lack of familiarity is right to export,” David Guiho evidenced by the number of people of French specialist protective who wear them in unorthodox equipment group Delta Plus told AFP. fashion -- under the chin or with the When Chinese exports did nose uncovered. resume demand was frantic, leaving Further afield, in Iraq, AFP major shortages from Italy and Spain witnessed some shoppers leaving a to Egypt. store passing their masks on to those “With globalisation we got about to go inside... carried away thinking there would always be (trade) flows between Rules... and reticence countries. With this crisis we found everyone turned in on themselves,” In around 50 countries, Stephane Billon, a health affairs wearing a mask is currently economist, told AFP. mandatory nationwide. Others require one in some zones and still Costly cover others simply recommend using one. In the United Arab Emirates, Given the demand, prices eschewing one means a fine of soared -- some 25 times over in around $200 while in Chad the Lebanon, according to unions punishment is arrest and up to 15 involved with medical imports. days in jail. Two firms in South Africa - In the US town of Stillwater, Sicuro Safety and Hennox Supplies --

found themselves having to explain to competition authorities why they had raised prices as much as 1,000 percent. In Iraq, “a 50-pack of surgical masks cost between 2,500 or 3,000 Iraqi dinars (around $2.50) before. Today, they cost 30,000 dinars,” Baghdad pharmacist Sayyed Ali told AFP. Price gouging sparked a welter of counterfeit versions available online -- but there were also thefts of stocks from chemists’ and hospitals. China cranked up production and exported more than 21 billion masks between early March and April 25 while firms across the globe switched production to make their own contributions. Some 20 Moroccan firms rolled their sleeves up and have been cranking out 10 million per day, says Industry Minister Moulay Hafid Elalamy. The French government requisitioned production at local firms and large companies diversified to lend a hand. Paris also decreed a ceiling unit price of 95 cents ($1) -- Italy set the bar at 50 cents. Moroccan small retailers make them available for just 8 cents, thanks to a special emergency fund subsidy set up by the king. In Israel, FFP2 grade masks offering higher protection than basic surgical models spiked to 70 shekels (some $20) but have come down to barely a third as much after the finance ministry intervened. A basic surgical model costs about 80 euro cents. The price gyrations have prompted many people to make their own out of basic fabric, not least in Egypt, where the government made wearing masks obligatory in public places last month.

Such masks are a boon for the likes of supermarket workers. In Brussels, Olivier Bruynincx is meanwhile working “seven days a week, almost day and night to repair sewing machines” which are suddenly once more in vogue. Use and throw Many countries lack clear guidelines on how to dispose of masks. Many are thrown out with household rubbish. French recycling firm Citeo France advises “throwing handkerchiefs, masks and gloves into a resistant plastic bag.” That should be closed carefully and kept overnight before being thrown into the dustbin and ultimately taken off for incineration. The not very green downside -- a very intensive use of plastic bags. In many countries, masks simply end up in the street or the countryside. In Hong Kong, Greenpeace in March complained vast numbers are simply thrown aside in parks while the OceansAsia association says it has spotted many on Chinese beaches. Such cavalier disposal is environmentally harmful as many surgical masks contain polypropylene, a dense material which degrades over countless decades “either in landfill or the ocean”, warns Earth.org. To limit the ecological damage scientists are seeking ways to decontaminate surgical masks to allow repeated use, including washing at a high 95 degrees Celsius and in a steam chamber allowing sterilisation. Another ploy under review to kill off lingering microorganisms is gamma ray irradiation.

Page 48

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

BUSINESS &

WORLD NEWS BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY

TECHNOLOGY Facebook, Twitter, Google to report monthly on fake news fight, EU says

European Commission Vice-President Vera Jourova holds a news conference after a college meeting of the EU executive in Brussels, Belgium April 29, 2020. Facebook (FB.O), Google (GOOGL.O) and Twitter (TWTR.N) should provide monthly reports on their fight against disinformation, two senior EU officials said on Wednesday as they called out Russia and China for their roles in the spread of fake news. The comments by EU foreign policy head Josep Borrell and the European Commission’s Vice President for values and transparency Vera Jourova underscore the bloc’s concerns about the prevalence of misleading news on COVID-19 and the attempts by foreign actors to influence Europe. “It really showed that disinformation does not only harm the health of our democracies, it also harms the health of our citizens. It can negatively impact the economy and undermine the response of the public authorities and therefore weaken the health measures,” Jourova told a news conference. She said the next fake news front was vaccination, citing a study showing that Germans’ willingness to be vaccinated had fallen by 20 percentage points in two months. The Commission said online platforms should provide monthly reports with details on their actions to promote authoritative content and to limit coronavirus disinformation and advertising related to it.

Facebook’s Zuckerberg promises a review of content policies after backlash CEO Mark Zuckerberg on Friday said he would consider changes to the policy that led the company to leave up controversial posts by President Donald Trump during recent demonstrations protesting the death of an unarmed black man while in police custody, a partial concession to critics. Zuckerberg did not promise specific policy changes in a Facebook post, days after staff members walked off the job, some claiming he kept finding new excuses not to challenge Trump. “I know many of you think we should have labeled the President’s posts in some way last week,” Zuckerberg wrote, referring to his decision not to remove Trump’s message containing the phrase “when the looting starts, the shooting starts.” “We’re going to review our policies allowing discussion and threats of state use of force to see if there are any amendments we should adopt,” he wrote. “We’re going to review potential options for handling violating or partially-violating content aside from the binary leave-it-up or take-it-down decisions.” Zuckerberg said Facebook would be more transparent about its decision-making on whether to take down posts, review policies on posts that could cause voter suppression and would look to build software to advance racial justice, led by important lieutenants. At a staff meeting earlier this week, employees questioned Zuckerberg’s stance on Trump’s post. Zuckerberg, who holds a controlling stake in Facebook, has maintained that while he found Trump’s comments “deeply offensive,” they did not violate company policy against incitements to violence.

As business trickles back, hotels compete on cleanliness

Marriott, Hilton and other big hotel companies are used to competing on price or perks. Now they are competing on cleanliness. From masked clerks at the front desk to shuttered buffets, hotels are making visible changes in the wake of the pandemic. Signage will tout new cleaning regimens: Red Roof Inns promise “RediClean,” while Hilton boasts of “CleanStay with Lysol.” Hotels are still mostly empty; in the U.S., occupancy stood at 37% the week ending May 30, down 43% from the same period a year ago, according to STR, a data and consulting firm. But leisure travel is starting to pick up, and hotels see cleaning standards as a way to soothe jittery guests — and possibly win back business from rivals like home-sharing companies like Airbnb. “I think, more than ever, customers are going to be looking for that seal of approval,” said Phil Cordell, Hilton’s head of global new brand development, who is leading the group developing the company’s new cleaning standards. Some hotel brands are more stringent than others, says Larry Yu, a professor of hospitality management at George Washington University. He notes that Accor Hotels, a French company, has developed accreditation standards that its hotels must meet in order to reopen. But Yu said enhanced cleaning is happening everywhere. “Everybody is doing it, because it is now expected by consumers,” he said. Guests are already seeing differences. David Whitesock, the chief innovation officer for Face It Together, an addiction counseling company, moved from Denver to upstate New York over Memorial Day weekend. He stayed at Marriott hotels in Iowa and Ohio along the way. There were some oddities. Police tape separated him from the front desk in Iowa, and the hotel gave him a key card even though he would have preferred to unlock his room door using Marriott’s app. Whitesock brought his own food, but noticed prepackaged breakfasts laid out where buffets used to be. But he said his rooms looked, felt and smelled cleaner than they used to. All the guests wore masks and respectfully kept their distance, he said. “I felt like it was a safe

place to be, that they had done the best that they possibly could given the circumstances,” Whitesock said. “A lot of it comes down to, do you trust the hotels and the people who you are going to come into contact with there?” Despite hotels’ precautions, however, visiting them is still risky, said Dr. Albert Ko, a professor of epidemiology and medicine at the Yale School of Public Health. Hotels can bring together travelers from states or countries where transmission rates are higher, for example, and many carriers may not be showing symptoms. “That’s the kind of thing we’re worried about in terms of public health,” he said. “Those settings can be the cause of outbreaks.” Hilton and other companies have called in experts to develop new standards. Marriott and IHG — the parent company of Holiday Inn — are working with EcoLab, which makes industrial cleaning products. IHG is also getting advice from the Cleveland Clinic. Hilton has partnered with the Mayo Clinic. Hyatt is working with ISSA, a global cleaning industry association. Hotels walked through the guest experience and made changes at every touch point. Hilton’s hotel shuttles will be disinfected hourly and passengers will have access to wipes. MGM Resorts, which is reopening four Las Vegas hotels on June 4, will ask restaurant guests to view digital menus on their own phones. Changes vary by hotel. Guests may find lobby furniture moved further apart or hand sanitizer stations next to elevator keys. Shared coffee stations are gone. DoubleTree still offers warm chocolate chip cookies, but only upon request. Inside the rooms, surfaces like TV remotes and light switches will get an extra cleaning. Best Western is getting rid of decorative pillows, pens and other unnecessary items. Red Roof is telling staff to bag up dirty sheets inside its rooms, to limit spread of disease. Once a room is cleaned and disinfected, Hilton will put a sticker on the door so guests know no one has been inside. Ko said in addition to disinfecting surfaces, hotels might want to consider moving dining outside, where the risk of transmission is lower, or limiting capacity in tight spaces like elevators. Marriott’s plan includes limiting capacity

A Marriott associate using an electrostatic sprayer to clean public areas at the Brooklyn Bridge Marriott in New York in restaurants and gyms and ensuring people are distanced in elevator lines. Cordell said Hilton plans to keep pools and fitness centers open and clean them regularly. “Fitness and wellness is so fundamental to the guests getting back in their routine,” he said. Hotels are experimenting with new technology. Marriott and others are using electrostatic sprayers to spritz lobbies with disinfectant. Many hotel brands are also encouraging guests to access their rooms using their mobile phones. Hilton says 4,800 of its 6,100 hotels have that capability so far. Marriott offers keyless check-in in 3,200 hotels. Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky thinks guests will prefer separate homes to hotels filled with people. Airbnb — which is also working with EcoLab and former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy — will continue to upgrade its cleaning protocols, he said. “Health and cleanliness are going to be one of our biggest focuses,” he said. But Yu said hotel chains can ensure franchisees are complying through their normal auditing process. That will be a challenge for Airbnb, he said, which has developed its own cleaning standards but may have more trouble ensuring that hosts comply.

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 49

BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY WORLD NEWS

Pandemic drives broadest economic collapse in 150 years: World Bank The coronavirus pandemic inflicted a “swift and massive shock” that has caused the broadest collapse of the global economy since 1870 despite unprecedented government support, the World Bank said Monday. The world economy is expected to contract by 5.2 percent this year -- the worst recession in 80 years -- but the sheer number of countries suffering economic losses means the scale of the downturn is worse than any recession in 150 years, the World Bank said in its latest Global Economic Prospects report. “This is a deeply sobering outlook, with the crisis likely to leave long-lasting scars and pose major global challenges,” said World Bank Group Vice President for Equitable Growth, Finance and Institutions Ceyla Pazarbasioglu. The depth of the crisis will drive 70 to 100 million people into extreme poverty -worse than the prior estimate of 60 million, she told reporters. And while the Washington-based development lender projects a rebound for 2021, there is a risk a second wave of outbreaks could undermine the recovery and turn the economic crisis into a financial one that will see a “wave of defaults.” Economists have been struggling to measure the impact of the crisis they have likened to

a global natural disaster, but the sheer size of the impact across so many sectors and countries has made that difficult. Under the worst-case scenario, the global recession could mean a contraction of eight percent, according to the report. But Pazarbasioglu cautioned: “Given this uncertainty, further downgrades to the outlook are very likely.” Meanwhile, a group of American economists who are the arbiters of when a recession starts and ends said Monday the United States entered a downturn in February, ending 128 months of uninterrupted growth, the longest streak in history. Recessions typically are defined by several months of declining economic activity. But the Business Cycle Dating Committee of the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER), a nonprofit, non-partisan research organization, called the current situation in the world’s largest economy “unprecedented” due to the severity of the drop in employment and production, even if it might turn out to be shorter than other recessions. - China still growing, barely China is nearly alone in seeing modest growth this year. However the World Bank warned the depth of the slowdown

in the world’s second-largest economy will hinder recovery prospects in developing nations, especially commodity exporters. While China will see GDP rise just one percent, the World Bank said, the rest of the forecasts are grim: US -6.1 percent, eurozone -9.1 percent, Japan -6.1 percent, Brazil -8 percent, Mexico -7.5 percent and India -3.2 percent. And things could get worse, meaning the forecasts will be revised even lower, the bank warned. Though dramatic, the current forecast falls short of the Great Depression, which saw a global contraction of 14.5 percent from 1930 to 1932, while the post-war downturn in 1945-1946 was 13.8 percent, according to the World Bank. But because of the pandemic there remain some “exceptionally high” risks to the outlook, particularly if the disease lingers and authorities have to reimpose restrictions -which could make the downturn as bad as eight percent. “Disruptions to activity would weaken businesses’ ability to remain in operation and service their debt,” the report cautioned. That, in turn, could raise interest rates for higher-risk borrowers. “With debt levels already at historic highs, this could lead to cascading defaults and financial crises across many economies,” it said.

BA, Ryanair, easyJet protest over ‘wholly unjustified’ UK quarantine plan Three airlines have written to the British government in protest at its “wholly unjustified and disproportionate” quarantine rules for most international arrivals from Monday, a copy of the letter seen by Reuters showed. With planes around the world grounded since late March, airlines had hoped to start flying from July, but bosses say quarantine measures will hamper that recovery. From June 8, almost everyone arriving in Britain will be required to self-isolate for 14 days and to fill in a contact form with details of their accommodation. Describing itself as a “pre-action protocol letter,” meaning it could be followed by legal action, the letter from British Airways, Ryanair (RYA.I) and easyJet (EZJ.L) said the government had failed to justify the blanket nature of the regulations. “The effect is to establish a wholly unjustified and disproportionate restriction on individuals traveling to England (and questionably the United

Samsung heir avoids arrest over controversial merger

Samsung heir Lee Jae-yong (C) arrives at court for a hearing that rejected detaining him in connection with a controversial merger. A South Korean court on Tuesday declined to issue an arrest warrant for the heir to the country’s Samsung empire over a controversial merger of two business units seen as a key step to his succession. Lee Jae-yong, vice chairman of Samsung Electronics, is already being re-tried on charges of bribery, embezzlement and other offences in connection with a corruption scandal that brought down former South Korean president Park Geunhye. The merger case is separate from his ongoing retrial, but adds to the difficulties for the Samsung group, by far the biggest of the familycontrolled conglomerates, or chaebols, that dominate business in the world’s 12th-largest economy. Prosecutors had sought the arrest warrant for Lee on suspicion he was involved in price manipulation and illegal trading during the 2015 merger of Cheil Industries and Samsung C&T. But the Seoul Central District Court turned down the prosecution’s request, ruling there was not sufficient probable cause for his arrest or those of two former Samsung executives. “There was insufficient explanation on the need to arrest the defendants against the principle of trial without detention,” Judge Won Jung-sook said in a court statement. “Prosecutors seem to have already secured a considerable amount of evidence through their investigation,” she said. Whether Lee committed illegal acts should be established at trial, she added. Lee attended the hearing, which Yonhap news agency said lasted for about nine hours, and then awaited the court’s decision at a detention centre. He emerged at about 2:40 am Tuesday and briefly greeted reporters but did not answer when asked how he felt about the decision. Lee then left in a black sedan. The merger transaction was seen as helping ensure a smooth third-generational power transfer to Lee, a scion of Samsung’s founding family. Chaebol families often have only a small ownership stake in their empires, but maintain control through complex webs of crossshareholdings between units. - Apology -

A British Airways passenger plane comes in to land at London Heathrow airport, following the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), London, Britain, May 21, 2020. Kingdom) and will inevitably a breach of rules will be mean that there is very little punishable with a 1,000 pounds increase in the numbers of ($1,266) fine. persons leaving and entering The airlines say the the country,” the letter said. quarantine measures are more Willie Walsh, the stringent than those imposed chief executive of BA owner on people suspected of being IAG (ICAG.L) said on Friday or confirmed to be infected by the industry had not been the novel coronavirus who are consulted and the company was asked to isolate and do not face considering a legal challenge. criminal sanctions. The government has Their letter also said it said the new regime will be in was “illogical and irrational” to place across Britain, although impose quarantine on people enforcement measures will be arriving from European Union set individually by each of the countries that have lower devolved nations. In England, infection rates than Britain.

Lee was the largest shareholder in Cheil Industries, and critics say Samsung sought to artificially lower the price of C&T to give him a bigger stake in the merged entity -- a key part of the Samsung structure -- consolidating his grip on the conglomerate. Last week, the Samsung group rejected media reports of price manipulation as “groundless”, saying in a statement Lee did not take part in “any illegal acts”. The prosecutors’ request came weeks after Lee issued a wide-ranging apology for company misconduct and promised to end the line of family succession. Lee, 51, has effectively been at the helm of Samsung -- South Korea’s biggest business group -since his father and Samsung group boss Lee Kunhee suffered a heart attack in 2014. He was jailed for five years in 2017 in connection with Park’s corruption scandal, but was released a year later on appeal before the country’s top court ordered him to face a new trial.

Page 50

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; JUNE 19TH, 2020

FUN & GAMES

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 51

Page 52

WORLD

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

FUN & GAMES

SPORTS Kings broadcaster resigns after tweet to Cousins

Longtime Sacramento Kings TV broadcaster Grant Napear resigned Tuesday after he tweeted “ALL LIVES MATTER” when asked by DeMarcus Cousins for his opinion on the Black Lives Matter movement. The 60-year-old Napear also was fired by KTHK Sports 1140 in Sacramento. He had co-hosted a show on the AM radio station with former Kings player Doug Christie. Bonneville International, the station’s parent company, said Napear’s “recent comments about the Black Lives Matter movement do not reflect the views or values of Bonneville International Corporation. The timing of Grant’s tweet was particularly insensitive.” There have been demonstrations across the country since George Floyd, a black man, died May 25 after a white Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee into Floyd’s neck while Floyd was handcuffed and saying that he couldn’t breathe. Cousins was drafted by Sacramento and played for the Kings for six-plus seasons before he was traded to New Orleans in February 2017. Cousins, who has been criticized by Napear in the past, tweeted at the broadcaster on Sunday night: “ what’s your take on BLM? ” Napear responded: “Hey!!!! How are you? Thought you forgot about me. Haven’t heard from you in years. ALL LIVES MATTER...EVERY SINGLE ONE!!!”

Jordan giving $100 million for racial equality, justice Michael Jordan and of Nike, the shoe giant that the Jordan Brand are giving earlier Friday committed $40 $100 million to organizations million over the next four years dedicated to promoting racial to support the black community. equality and social justice. Jordan also released a In a joint statement statement Monday on George Friday on social media, Jordan Floyd and the killings of black and the Jordan Brand said people at the hands of police. money will be paid over 10 “I am deeply saddened, years with the goal of “ensuring truly pained and plain angry,” racial equality, social justice and Jordan said. “I see and feel greater access to education.” everyone’s pain, outrage and “Black lives matter,” the frustration. I stand with those statement said. “This isn’t a who are calling out the ingrained controversial statement. Until racism and violence toward the ingrained racism that allows people of color in our country. our country’s institutions to fail We have had enough.” is completely eradicated, we will Floyd was in handcuffs remain committed to protecting when a Minneapolis police and improving the lives of black officer pressed his knee into people.” his neck as he pleaded that he Jordan, the 57-year-old couldn’t breathe. Derek Chauvin former Chicago Bulls great, is the is charged with third-degree owner of the Charlotte Hornets. murder and second-degree The Jordan Brand is a subsidiary manslaughter.

Former NBA player Michael Jordan reacts while speaking during a celebration of life for Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna in Los Angeles.

What’s next for the NBA? A plan for testing is the big key For the NBA, it is not officially time to play. It’s getting closer, but the league isn’t there yet. The move to agree on a 22team format for the resumption of the pandemic-interrupted season is a major step forward, but it was just the first of many major decisions that has to be completed before the league moves into the ESPN Wide Wide Of Sports complex at the Disney campus near Orlando next month. Another step was completed Friday as expected when the representatives from the National Basketball Players Association voted to unanimously approve the proposal that the NBA’s Board of Governors approved a day earlier. More talks and negotiations are scheduled for the coming days to work out everything else, and it is a sizable list. A look at some of the other issues facing the league, both in the quest to finish this season and then what awaits in the coming year: TESTING The format was significant, but not the biggest hurdle for the NBA to clear in this process. That one, by far, is testing. The medical protocols are the most critical part of the return-to-play plan. The league and the players know they must go above and beyond in the interest of safety. The protocols are the key — players will have to practice social distancing when they aren’t playing, plus submit to a quarantine at the beginning of the time at Disney and likely daily testing for the entirety of their stay there. Players and coaches likely won’t even be able to have their families at Disney until September,

Boston Celtics fans try to distract Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) while he shoots foul shots during the first quarter of Game 3 in the second round of an NBA basketball playoff series in Boston. at the earliest. vying for one berth. A person with direct Whichever team emerges knowledge of the talks said the from that mess will be playoff-ready NBA and NBPA have been working and loaded with confidence heading on what will be lengthy protocols into Game 1 of Round 1 against — which, among other things, will the Lakers. That means the Lakers explain what happens when a player will have to be playoff-sharp right or coach tests positive while at the away, because LeBron James and his Disney complex. teammates will open against a team that’s hot. THE GAMES THE OTHER EIGHT The season is set to resume July 31, with playoffs starting in Consider this: Detroit didn’t mid-August and leading up to an win a game in March, and now won’t NBA Finals that could stretch until play in April, May, June, July, August, Oct. 12. September, October or November. Other than Milwaukee and The Pistons’ last win was Feb. the Los Angeles Lakers, who are all- 28. The rough — very rough — draft but certain of going into the playoffs of the NBA calendar suggests next with No. 1 seeds, everyone at Disney season will start Dec. 1. will be playing for something — a That’s almost nine full playoff seed or a playoff spot. months without games. Meanwhile, The dynamic at the bottom the 2020 NBA finalists aren’t even of the East is fascinating with slated to get nine weeks off before Brooklyn and Orlando separated next season starts. by a half-game — and Washington And every team will have to just 1-1/2 games out of getting into cram a draft and free agency into a two-game play-in series for the No. very small windows next fall. 8 spot. For Detroit, Chicago, New Out West, expect craziness York, Atlanta, Cleveland, Charlotte, with six teams basically assured of Minnesota and Golden State, it’ll

be a long break. The Warriors’ Klay Thompson last played a year ago, when he tore his ACL in the NBA Finals. He’s basically going to go a year and a half without playing a real game. (The same could be the case for Kevin Durant, if he doesn’t return to Brooklyn’s lineup when the season resumes.) “This certainly wasn’t how we hoped our season would come to an end, and it’s fair to say that we are disappointed that our young team will not be allowed to gain more valuable time playing together by being included in the restart of the season,” Hawks general manager Travis Schlenk and coach Lloyd Pierce said in a joint statement Friday. There’s a lot of teams feeling that same way. NEXT SEASON The very long wait for the eight teams not going to Disney and the very short offseason for the teams that go deep into the playoffs are Disney are not the only schedule issue on the table right now. If the NBA goes forward with a normal regular season in 2020-21, a Dec. 1 start date means the playoffs wouldn’t start until late May and could reach into late July. And that calls into question whether NBA players could take part in the Olympics, which has qualifying scheduled for June 2021 for the final four spots in the men’s field and then the Tokyo Games themselves beginning on July 23, 2021. USA Basketball managing director Jerry Colangelo has said the Americans will wait and see what the NBA schedule really is before reacting and setting a firm plan for picking a team for Tokyo next summer.

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 53

WORLD SPORTS

Gregg Popovich: “Embarrassed as a white person” San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said he’s “embarrassed as a white person” that George Floyd could die in such a “nonchalant” manner. The 71-year-old Popovich addressed Floyd’s death in a video released Saturday by the Spurs as part of the team’s #SpursVoices social media series. Floyd was in handcuffs when a Minneapolis police officer pressed his knee into his neck as he pleaded that he couldn’t breathe. Derek Chauvin is charged with thirddegree murder and second-degree manslaughter. “In a strange, counterintuitive sort of way, the best teaching moment of this recent tragedy, I think, was the look on the officer’s face,” Popovich said. “For white people to see how nonchalant, how casual, just how everyday-

going-about-his job, so much so that of stop signs that need to go up -he could just put his left hand in his quickly -- because our country is in pocket, wriggle his knee around a trouble. And the basic reason is race.” little bit to teach this person some Popovich said white people sort of a lesson -- and that it was his must help lead the charge for change. right and his duty to do it, in his “We have to do it. Black mind. people have been shouldering this “I think I’m just embarrassed burden for 400 years,” Popovich said. as a white person to know that that “The only reason this nation has can happen. To actually watch a made the progress it has is because lynching. We’ve all seen books, and of the persistence, patience and you look in the books and you see effort of black people. The history of black people hanging off of trees. our nation from the very beginning ... But we just saw it again. I never in many ways was a lie, and we thought I’d see that, with my own continue to this day, mostly black eyes, in real time. and brown people, to try to make “It’s like the neighborhood that lie a truth so that it is no longer where you know there’s a a lie. And those rights and privileges dangerous corner, and you know are enjoyed by people of color, just that something’s going to happen like we enjoy them. So it’s got to be someday, and nobody does anything. us, in my opinion, that speak truth And then a young kid gets killed and to power, and call it out, no matter a stop sign goes up. Well, without what the consequences. We have to getting too political, we’ve got a lot speak. We have to not let anything

go.” Popovich has led the Spurs to five NBA titles and is a threetime coach of the year. He’s set to coach the United States in the Tokyo Olympics.

Federer to miss rest of season after second knee op

India’s Bumrah seeks ‘alternative’ to saliva on cricket ball Indian paceman Jasprit Bumrah said cricket should seek an “alternative” for shining the ball if the game’s governing body ban the use of saliva during the coronavirus pandemic. The International Cricket Council (ICC) is likely to implement a ban for the game’s return when they meet next week after receiving medical advice that spit poses a Indian paceman Jasprit Bumrah COVID-19 transmission risk. saliva and leaving the other half to Handshakes, celebratory become scuffed. high-fives and hugs are also likely Anil Kumble, chairman to be off-limits when international of the ICC cricket committee that cricket resumes with safety recommended banning saliva, protocols in place. insisted the move was only an “I was not much of a hugger “interim measure”. anyway, and not a high-five person Australian cricket ball as well, so that doesn’t trouble me manufacturer Kookaburra is a lot,” Bumrah said in an ICC video developing a wax applicator that chat with the former West Indies allows players to shine the ball pace bowler Ian Bishop and the without using saliva or sweat. ex-captain of South Africa, Shaun But its use would need a change in Pollock. the laws of cricket which forbid the “The only thing that use of any artificial substance to interests me is the saliva bit,” added alter the ball. the 26-year-old Bumrah. Test players have in the “I don’t know what past been accused of using lozenges, guidelines that we have to follow petroleum jelly and resin to keep when we come back, but I feel the shine on the ball, and also there should be an alternative. scuffing it with bottle tops, trouser “If the ball is not well zippers, grit or fingernails. maintained, it’s difficult for the The most notorious recent bowlers. The grounds are getting incident was in 2018, when shorter and shorter, the wickets are Australian players attempted to becoming flatter and flatter. So we alter the ball with sandpaper need something.” during a Test against South Africa Pace bowlers usually try to in Cape Town, resulting in lengthy make the ball swing through the bans for the three involved -- Steve air by shining one side on their Smith, David Warner and Cameron clothing aided by using sweat or Bancroft.

San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich points to his bench during the first half of the team’s NBA basketball game against the Philadelphia 76ers in Philadelphia.

Switzerland’s Roger Federer looks dejected after his match against Serbia’s Novak Djokovic. Roger Federer will miss the rest of the 2020 season after undergoing a second procedure on his right knee, the 20-times Grand Slam singles champion said on Wednesday. Federer struggled with injury at this year’s Australian Open in Melbourne, where he lost in the semi-finals to eventual champion Novak Djokovic, and subsequently underwent surgery on the knee in February. “A few weeks ago, having experienced a setback during my initial rehabilitation, I had to have an additional quick arthroscopic procedure on my right knee,” the 38-year-old said in a Twitter post. With professional tennis shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic it remains to be seen how many tournaments Federer will actually miss.

The Swiss also had knee surgery to repair a torn meniscus in 2016 and missed the second half of that season. When he returned to the tour for the 2017 season it looked like he had never been away, winning the Australian Open to end a near fiveyear Grand Slam title drought and adding the Wimbledon title later that year. The last of Federer’s record 20 Grand Slam singles titles came at the 2018 Australian Open. The closest he has come since was at Wimbledon last year when he lost in the final. “Now, much like I did leading up to the 2017 season, I plan to take the necessary time to be 100% ready to play at my highest level,” he said. “I will be missing my fans and the tour dearly but, I will look forward to see everyone back on tour at the start of the 2021 season.”

England v Australia rugby league series cancelled The Rugby Football League and the Australian Rugby League Commission on Monday announced the cancellation of this year’s EnglandAustralia Ashes series. Three Tests had been due to take place in England in October and November, with the competition being revived after a 17-year absence. Talks have already begun about a series from 2022 onwards, with the World Cup taking place in England next year.

The joint statement said the decision had been made in the context of the “continued complications surrounding global travel, and the need to extend the domestic season in both hemispheres”. RFL chief executive Ralph Rimmer said: “We make this announcement with great reluctance and disappointment, as we had been looking forward so much to welcoming the Kangaroos for the revival of the Ashes in 2020.”

Australia’s National Rugby League (NRL) made a return behind closed doors last week, with the seasonending Grand Final planned for October 25. Andrew Abdo, the interim CEO of the NRL, said: “It is disappointing that the historic Kangaroos tour to the UK can no longer take place in 2020. We look forward to the Rugby League World Cup in 2021 and hopefully a England clash with Australia in the final tour to the UK by the Kangaroos in a of the 2017 Rugby League World Cup in future season.” Brisbane

Page 54

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

WORLD SPORTS

Sydney makes surprise bid for Fury-Wilder rematch Australian city Sydney has made an audacious bid to host a blockbuster heavyweight rematch between Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder, with promoters eyeing Boxing Day for the trilogy superfight. Promoter Dean Lonergan has tentatively booked Bankwest Stadium in the city’s west for the bout, The Australian reported Monday. Semi-autonomous Chinese city Macau is also in the running. “I put a proposal to (Top Rank promoter) Bob Arum about six weeks ago by way of email to bring down here the world heavyweight title fight between Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury,” Lonergan told the newspaper. “The day I suggested was December 26 here so we would (broadcast) to the USA on Christmas night.” Lonergan wasn’t immediately available to confirm the comments. Following a controversial draw in December 2018, Britain’s Fury, unbeaten as a professional, overpowered American Wilder in Las Vegas in February, beating him in seven rounds. Wilder has activated the rematch clause in his contract, with a time yet to be fixed after the original date of July

Tyson Fury beat Deontay Wilder in their second fight in February. 18 was scrapped because of the coronavirus pandemic. Arum confirmed in a Sky Sports interview at the weekend that Sydney was in the mix, along with Macau. Both cities have got on top of COVID-19, and appear more likely to allow fans than the US or Britain. Las Vegas could still host the fight if spectators are allowed back into venues. “Our friends in Australia are talking about doing this fight, probably in Sydney. That’s a possibility,” said Arum, who previously promoted ring great Manny’s Pacquiao’s bout against Australian Jeff Horn in Brisbane. “There are six big casino properties in Macau,” he added.

“We’ve talked to them. They’re ready to put up money for the Fury fight against Wilder in November or December.” Lonergan said Boxing Day would be symbolic, marking 108 years to the day since African-American Jack Johnson was crowned the first black heavyweight champion by beating Tommy Burns in a world title bout in Sydney. “Jack Johnson was the first Afro-American to crack the big time in the US. I think it would be incredibly significant if you did it down here to celebrate what he did all those years ago to chase Tommy Burns down,” he said.

NBA offers clarity on tiebreakers with uneven schedule

The NBA has told teams that playoff seeding will be based on winning percentage, and that any tiebreakers necessary after that will follow the usual procedures. It was an issue that needed clarity because the 22 teams that will be going to the Disney complex near Orlando, Florida, for the planned resumption of the season next month will not have played the same number of games. The NBA told teams of the plan for utilizing tiebreakers in a memo late Friday. Based on the league plan for the restart, with games starting again in late July, Dallas will end up playing an NBA-high 75 contests. Most others will play between 72 and 74; the low total will be 71, which San Antonio and the Los Angeles Lakers will finish at if the NBA’s plans for teams to play eight games at the Disney complex before the playoffs begin comes to fruition. The NBA has not yet revealed how team schedules will be adjusted once play resumes without Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Golden State, Minnesota and New York taking part in the remainder of the 2019-20 season. There are some playoff races that are particularly close and where the teams involved will end up playing a different number of games. In the East, Brooklyn and Orlando are separated by a half-game and the Nets will end up with one less game than the Magic. In the West, four teams — Portland, New Orleans, Sacramento and San Antonio — are all separated by a half-game in the race for ninth place and potentially a berth in a play-in series. The gap between those four teams is .010 percentage points, and the Trail Blazers will play 74 games, the Pelicans and Kings will both play 72 and the Spurs 71. Typically, NBA teams play 82 games — which wasn’t possible this season because of the coronavirus pandemic and the suspension of the season on March 11. This will be the first season in which NBA teams play an uneven number of games since 2012-13, when a game between the Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers was canceled in response to the Boston Marathon bombing. The Celtics and Pacers finished at 81 games, though that did not have any impact on playoff seeding that season.

Diack told top doping official to avoid ‘a scandal’, court hears The former anti-doping chief of athletics’ world governing body told a French court Monday that Lamine Diack urged him to bend the rules on Russian doping cases to avoid “a scandal” that would scare off sponsors. Gabriel Dolle is being tried in Paris alongside Diack, the Senegalese former president of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), who is accused of accepting millions of dollars to cover up Russian doping tests. Dolle, a 78-year-old Frenchman, is himself charged with “receiving bribes” amounting to 190,000 euros between 2013 and 2014. He told the trial he had been trying to find a compromise between the “higher interest” of the IAAF, since renamed World Athletics, and doping suspicions surrounding Russian athletes. In late 2011 and early 2012, the IAAF drew up a list of 23 Russian athletes whose anti-doping tests gave cause for concern. Dolle said Diack “asked me to consider... the critical financial situation” of the IAAF. “With the list... it was going to cause a scandal which could have influenced negotiations with sponsors and put them in jeopardy,” Dolle told the court. Dolle said he was “trying not to provoke a scandal” and the man who considered himself to be a “hardliner” insisted he had never avoided handing down punishments

the Russian athletes to compete in the 2012 Olympics and the World Athletics Championships in Moscow the following year. The trial, following a fouryear French investigation, was originally scheduled to start on January 13 but was delayed to examine new evidence. The charges against Lamine Diack carry a maximum sentence of 10 years’ prison. Also appearing in court is Habib Cisse, Diack’s former legal advisor, who is suspected of having acted as an intermediary between the IAAF and Russian athletics authorities and having received Lamine Diack (R) was head of athletics’ world governing body for 16 years. hundreds of thousands of dollars. for doping offenders. Russian doping cases. Missing from the trial, When the judge in the He said the 90,000 euros however, will be Papa Massata Diack, trial, Marie-Rose Hunault, pointed that Lamine Diack gave him in two who handled lucrative contracts for out that some of the names on the payments in 2013 and 2014 was the IAAF. list who were allowed to continue compensation for being “sacked in a Diack senior’s son was competing not only went on to take brutal and ungrateful way”. implicated through a payment of part in the 2012 London Olympics, Diack, who was in charge of 450,000 euros from Russian runner but won medals, Dolle said he had the IAAF between 1999 and 2015, Liliya Shobukhova, allegedly to have been “betrayed”. will give evidence when the trial her blood passport case delayed “I was slightly a hostage resumes on Wednesday. in order to compete in the 2012 to a commitment I had given my The 87-year-old is charged with Olympic marathon, as revealed by president,” Dolle said, referring to “giving and receiving bribes”, “breach German broadcaster ARD in 2014. Diack. of trust” and “organised money Diack junior is accused laundering”. of playing a “central role” in the - ‘Bonus’ The prosecution alleges network of corruption and is charged that Diack obtained $1.5 million of with “money laundering”, “giving Asked about the payments Russian funds to help back Macky bribes” and “aiding the receiving of he is accused of receiving, Dolle Sall’s campaign for the 2012 Senegal bribes”. said he believed 50,000 euros he presidential election -- which he won Despite two international was given in an envelope by Diack’s -- in exchange for the IAAF’s anti- arrest warrants issued by France, the son Papa Massata Diack, a marketing doping arm covering up or delaying Senegalese authorities have refused consultant for the IAAF, was a offences by 23 Russians. to extradite him. “bonus” for his handling of the The aim, prosecutors say, was to allow

JUNE 12TH, 2020 – JUNE 19TH, 2020

TURKS & CAICOS SUN

Page 55

WORLD SPORTS

Now Under Construction and 80% of phase 1 sold, Rock House is the latest vision from award-winning

Grace Bay Resorts. Capturing the spirit of the Mediterranean coast and Capri, the site provides breathtaking views for its 39 private cottages and 4 hillside homes, soaring up to 95ft above sea level. Priced from $700k – $1.9m For real estate ownership opportunities at Rock House, call 1.649.231.0707 or email info@rockhouseresort.com | www.RockHouseResort.com *Prices in USD

Published by SUN MEDIA GROUP, Turks and Caicos Islands | Tel:649 348 6838 | Fax: 649 941 3281