Weekly News Volume 29 | No. 48 | November 28 - December 4, 2015
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TURKS AND CAICOS
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PETITION TO SAVE NATIONAL PARK Irate residents have launched an online petition to the Government after it emerged that there are plans to release certain areas of the National Park for private development.
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DEMA clears air on ‘wise use’ clause for National Park changes PAGE
LONG BAY HIGH SCHOOL TO OPEN ITS DOORS NEXT WEEK
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CRIMINAL CONVICTION LEAVES MOTHER JOBLESS PAGE 10
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WINNER ANNOUNCED FOR SUPERMARKET CAR PROMOTION
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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NEWS
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
Long Bay High School to open its doors next week BY OLIVIA ROSE PROVIDENCIALES second high school to be built in some 28 years will welcome pupils through its doors officially on Monday, November 30. That follows a symbolic ribbon cutting ceremony at the new Long Bay High School set for Thursday, November 26, at 5pm. The school, which was expected to open in September for the new school term, will relieve the overcrowded Clement Howell High School in Blue Hills, Providenciales. According to Government figures more than 930 pupils were being educated at the school, which was originally built to hold 300 students. Long Bay High School will embrace its first batch of students who will in turn be the first graduating class of the institution in 2020. DELAYS Prior to this auspicious opening Leader of the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM) Sharlene Cartwright Robinson had voiced her concerns with completion delays facing the institution. She told the Weekly News that the Education Minister Akeirra Missick should be “open and honest” with parents on the issues affecting the schools completion. She added that for years her party voiced its concerns with the cramped Clement Howell High School in Blue Hills. “The issue we have with the Long
An artist’s impression of new Long Bay High School Dr Carlton Mills, new principal of Long Bay High School
Bay High School is not the opening, it’s that we are convinced that it was an intentional misleading on the part of the minister.” She explained: “The contract was signed but the contractor was not due to complete that project until the middle of October.” This she asserted was the genesis of the problem since parents were led to believe that the school would be completed at the beginning of September. The Opposition Leader further revealed that delays were as a result of land and zoning issues. She said: “Our information is that they broke ground on a property, though earmarked for education it was registered as residential and there was an issue of rezoning for it to become commercial, and that six
weeks delay that happened from the outset was relating to that.” On the other hand, Cartwright Robinson noted that her party has proposed the construction of a junior high school, which would greatly impact the number of students attending Clement Howell High School. “A junior high with first to third formers would split that school’s overcrowding at least in half.” She noted that based on the explanation given by Minister of Education Akierra Missick, the school would be created with a zoning concept, meaning that only children who reside in Long Bay would be accepted into the institution . “When we looked at that area, and conducted further studies, it was just over a hundred, high school age children and that would not have impacted the number at all.” “Socially we thought it was not good to create a class type of school, and then zone them according to where they live will create that class structure in high school.”
NEW PRINCIPAL Dr Carlton Mills was on October 22 announced as the principal for the new Long Bay High School in Providenciales. Dr Mills possesses a wealth of education and experience, holding a Certificate in Teacher Education, a Bachelor’s Degree in History and Sociology and a Diploma, Master’s Degree and Doctorate in Education, a Government release read. He previously served as the principal of the Marjorie Basden High School from 1990 to 1992; principal of the Raymond Gardiner High School from 1992 to 1997, vice president of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College from 1997 to 2007 and Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture from 2007 to 2009. Dr Mills was recently awarded the Cayos Medal for his patriotic service to the islands in the education and political arena and now holds the title the Much Honoured Dr Carlton Mills, PA. Commenting on the appointment
Published by Turks & Caicos News Company Ltd. Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales P.O. Box 52, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI W. Blythe Duncanson - Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Daisy Handfield - Staff Reporter Faizool Deo - Sports Editor (At Large) Cord Garrido-Lowe - Graphics Consultant (At Large) Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams - Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com Follow us on: Facebook: facebook.com/tcweeklynews Twitter: twitter.com/tcweeklynews1 The overcrowded Clement Howell High School
Deputy Governor Anya Williams said: “It is an esteemed pleasure of mine to welcome the Most Honoured Dr Carlton Mills back to the Turks and Caicos Islands civil service and to have him serve in this capacity. “With his fortitude and passion for the education sector and the youth of this country, we have full confidence in his ability to grow and to develop the new Long Bay High School into one of the most productive institutions of learning in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Commenting on his appointment, Dr Mills said: “I am delighted to return to the public service. “I think that I have been haunted for the past six years while out of the service. Education is my calling and more so, my passion. “I want to thank the team for seeing the qualities in me to select me for this new position. “With God’s help, it is my hope that our staff will work towards making this institution of learning one of the leading institutions in the CONTINUED
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November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
NEWS
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Residents start petition to stop privatisation of national parks BY OLIVIA ROSE IRATE residents have launched an online petition to the Government after it emerged that there are plans to release certain areas of the National Park for private development. The online petition is an attempt by a section of the public to repeal the Government’s consideration to convert specific areas of the park into development zones. This follows the Government’s proposal to make changes to the Turks and Caicos National Parks Ordinance. Countrywide consultations have since been ongoing by the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA). The first meeting was held in South Caicos at the DEMA Office on October 21. According to information extracted from the Government’s website the changes include: “Removing Split Rock and Pirates Cove from the National Park to
Don Stark, environmentalist and director of the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund
allow a shipping dock to be built.” A clause is being added to allow ‘wise-use,’ that is any developmental dredging etc in any protected area in the country. Silly Island and parts of Chalk Sound are being removed from the National Park.
Long Bay High School ... CONTINUED
country.” He added: “We have a group of new students entering this institution. With quality leadership and direction, we can groom these young lives into becoming productive citizens. “We can cultivate them into model citizens from which our future leadership in this country can be drawn from. I look forward to the challenges ahead. “The success of this institution will greatly depend on overwhelming parental and community support. “We look forward to embracing these entities to enable us to improve the teaching and Learning process.” CONSTRUCTION About $1 million was earmarked
for phase one of the building which will include eight classrooms for first and second form students along with toilet and administrative facilities. JaMalCo Company Limited was selected to build new high school. According to the Ministry of Education online publication on the school, it is expected to be fully functional high school separate and apart from the Clement Howell High School. The school will be built in phases, with the first phase accommodating all first formers or year one students who registered for public high school in Providenciales for the new academic year. The second phase will give allowance for the enrollment of students entering forms two to five.
West Harbour Bluff (Pirate’s Cove or Split Rock) a section of the National Park
Parts of Frenchman’s Creek and Pigeon Pond Nature Reserve, which are crucial areas for juvenile marine life, are being removed from the National Park. According to many who signed the petition these are disastrous changes since it will have a drastic impact on maritime life and the environment. Information reaching the Weekly News revealed that plans are apparently already afoot to release all or parts of the Frenchman’s Creek and Pigeon Pond Nature Reserve and the Chalk Sound National Park. A reliable source disclosed that citizens are also concerned about these drastic changes being considered for implementation under the guise of a “wise use” development clause to be introduced into the National Parks legislation. The source said: “The developers will certainly benefit, and certain Government officials will probably benefit, but the people of this country will most definitely be the losers, as important chunks of their heritage and national resources are sold off for short-term cash.” Don Stark, environmentalist and director of the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund, during an exclusive interview with the Weekly News highlighted several positive and negative points CONTINUED
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Princess Alexandra National Park reef conservation code sign
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
A Weekly News column that puts you on the spot for your opinions on the issues of the day
PROTECT NATIONAL PARK?
IRATE residents have launched an online petition to the Government after it emerged that there are plans to release certain areas of the National Park for private development. What are your thoughts?
Stop them in their tracks.
After this same PNP Government prostituted all the available Crown land for development on almost every island they are now seeking to slowly chip away at the balance of land reserved and preserved for future generations to enjoy. The only reason it was left in place so that it is now available for them to attempt to access, is merely because it was outside of their proverbial reach (nature preserve and national parks). They even tried to prostitute these too but was prevented due to the vigilance of concerned citizens and true patriots of these Islands. One has to question the sincerity of the FCO towards these Islands and their commitments to good governance. Guys, have a heart and leave the remaining land heritage for our children and grandchildren. Why not try to claw back some of the thousands of acres of land your partner in crime - the conductor - stole using his network of accomplices, attorneys, banks and corrupt politicians and their bag men.
You sell it, it’s gone.
Yes, I have a lot of thoughts! Some probably not publishable. Why not join all the parks together and make a world class ecosystem? Eco tourism is a self-sustaining way of making money - lasts forever and keeps on going. That is what the Islands are supposedly about and the big parks of the world have put it into action. You sell it, it’s gone. A onetime deal and nothing more, gone forever. If the parks are made into the absolute most awesome national parks there are, people will continue year after year to come and spend. It will be a legacy for generations to come. Wondering who to contact? I would like to get involved.
Plunder resources
This insidious attempt to plunder the best of the country’s natural resources is just what we should expect from a PNP Government
that has a history of selling off Crown land to its ministers and their cronies, and with most of the proceeds going anywhere but into the Government treasury! It is no surprise whatsoever that there are developers out there who would pay (somebody) handsomely to get their hands on prime acreage within our National Park, but this Government seems to have again lost sight of the fact that they hold this land ‘in trust’ for the citizens of the Turks and Caicos Islands, and that it is not just a cookie jar to be raided by the politically connected. We are already facing the degradation of the land out near Pirate’s Bluff, just so the wealthy guests of the (eventual) West Caicos resort can minimise the length of their boat trips – when is it going to stop? We should all be heartened by the recent Supreme Court decision that overruled the way the PNP administration had rammed the 12-storey development approval down our throats, and do whatever is necessary to ensure that court subjects this latest travesty to that same degree of scrutiny!
Not surprised
Are we surprised? Not at all.
Very sad
Such a decision would be tragic. The political class in the TCI never seems to learn any lessons from past mistakes or understand that it is the unspoiled natural environment that attracts tourists here. Short term rewards are the political currency in the TCI. Very sad.
What will be left for our children?
Simple question - after their greed is satisfied, what will the politicians leave for our children?
Giving away our heritage
There is more to this than meets the eye. The whole truth about these parcels of lands is not being properly addressed by TCIG! The parcels of lands have been ‘flipped’ by
certain previously connected (under the Tin Mikey administration) TC Islanders who were eventually swindled out of ownership and the balance of the proceeds of sale by dubious developer(s) and their attorneys. The developer(s) have mortgaged the lands to a dubious bank for literally millions and failed to repay the mortgages. As a result, the lands are now in receivership. Now this Government, who is basically trying to cover up Tin Mikey’s mess, wants to continue giving away our heritage. I say put the SIPT on these transactions if they have the fortitude to go after this particular bank for our lands. If the SIPT will not go there for whatever reasons, our AG Chambers needs to wake up from its slumber and reclaim the people’s lands!
Absolutely NO!
Release of park land to whom? Locals or peoples from overseas? Park lands are the preservation of people’s land for them and their children’s enjoyment forever. Park lands are not for developments except further development for the enjoyment of the people only - not private developers! The answer for use of park lands for development is absolutely NO!
No natural beauty
This Government seems to be desperate to achieve at least one development. Unfortunate that all they can do is follow the playbook of a former leader Mike Misick. Maybe he has our premier, ministers, appointed parliament member and speaker in his pocket. Misick said to American Rock star Gene Simmons: “Everything is for sale,” and now they have the preserves of nature up for sale again! Beautiful by nature will soon be history. We have heard another marina is planned with ownership shared by someone in the PNP.
Same old problem
One group of PNP members are in court starting next month and the group elected by a minority of voters is still on the path that previously failed.
First 12 storey, now sale of our National Park. Add the alleged corruption and now the TCI has a reputation that discourages investment. JAGS said it years ago; until PNP is gone the TCI will not go forward.
Managing our resources responsibly
The fact of the matter is that years ago, the park boundaries were hand-drawn by group of well-wishers sitting around a table. There were no ecological surveys or scientific research to ascertain the value of these areas. It was done purely by perception. Years later, the department commissioned various surveys and assessments which determined that some areas that were in the parks, were of no scientific value, whilst there are other areas that were not protected which needed protecting. But here is the true picture. There are a group of persons in this country that after purchasing a villa, condo, or parcel of land take the position, unfortunately, that they have purchased the entire TCI. This sense of ownership has proven fatal to the welfare of the TC Islander because many sad narratives are told of TC Islanders, after being used for fronting of business licences, Belongerships, etc, are shafted by these newly incumbent owners. What is more deadly is that many of these same expatriates work with the British to remove Crown land grants from the oversight of elected officials and by racist policy, and are now misrepresenting the removal of certain areas out of the parks, to ensure that locals do not have rights in land that was duly awarded to them.
BECOME A CONTRIBUTOR Want to become a contributor or have a suggestion for a Talk Back topic for us? What questions do you think we should be putting to the public? And what are your thoughts on it? Call our news team on 946 4664 or email tcweeklynews@gmail.com
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
NEWS
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DEMA clears air on ‘wise use’ clause for National Park changes BY OLIVIA ROSE DR JOHN Claydon, Director of the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA), has cleared the air on issues raised this week by irate residents regarding changes to the National Parks Ordinance. Residents started an online petition to repeal the Government’s consideration to convert specific areas of the National Park into development zones under the guise of a ‘wise use’ clause. Speaking to the Weekly News on Tuesday (November 24), Dr Claydon said: “A lot of people are worried that a ‘wise use’ clause means that if someone in Government thinks something is a good idea that means anything can happen at the National Park. “That’s definitely not the case. Substituting that word for ‘traditional use’ is in a very specific part of the National Park’s regulations.” He noted that in 2013 the National Park’s regulations were changed. In the section where now ‘wise use’ appears, there is a list of things that were prohibited in the National Park. “Prior to 2013 the following were prohibited at the National Park - the removal of sand, rocks coral, coral rags or any calcareous substance.” He underscored that these stringent restrictions made it difficult to grant permission to clear the existing channels within the National Park so that boats that go in and out and marinas could function. “In 2013 there was an amendment to change some of the restrictions; it changed to where such removal to maintain traditional use and access to an established navigational channel, docks or marina were allowed. “And then in that amendment it listed those established navigational channels, docks and marinas. “So the change of ‘wise use’ is where ‘traditional’ used to be in 2013. “I do understand that ‘wise use’ is a word that particularly in the US and UK legislation has degraded the environmental protection that those legislations should have. “I do understand how this can be perceived as sort of alarm bells ringing when you hear the words ‘wise use.’” Dr Claydon further explained that for example one of the channels listed is the West Caicos Marina, and there is really no traditional use for that marina since its deserted, and maintenance work will have to be carried out in that area to keep it functional. Dr Claydon continued: “So ‘traditional’ didn’t really fit all of those things, it was an ambiguous word.” Commenting on the proposed removal of certain sections out of Chalk Sound, Pigeon Pond and
Dr John Claydon, Director of the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA)
Frenchman’s Creek Nature Reserve, another aspect of the proposed changes which has been met with some objection by the public, Claydon said: “There’s a large number of people that have expressed objection to that, because of the environmental and tourism value of this unique area on Providenciales. “But there’s also some local residents who have expressed that this is a good thing for those people who have lots that turn out to be
An aerial view of a section of the National Park
within the National Park.” Dr Claydon declined to comment when asked about the proposed development of commercial parcels within the confines of the National Park that were sold during former Premier Michael Misick’s tenure.
On October 16, 2013, Cabinet granted approval for the establishment of a committee to assess the National Park prior to public consultation. The committee included representatives from the Premier’s
Office, the Ministry of Environment and Home Affairs, DEMA, Attorney General’s Chambers Turks and Caicos National Trust Members of the Public, Member of the
Residents start petition to stop privatisation ... about the proposed amendment to the National Parks Ordinance. He said: “The good things are there is a lot of territory that is supposed to be added to the parks and many of the reserves and protected areas in general and that’s good anytime you’re adding more land or ocean into the protected area it’s a good thing. “The other good thing is the proposal to make the entire economic enterprise zone of the TCI, starting at a 100 metre depth, a shark sanctuary. That’s a great idea too. “And the reason they put that in there is because they don’t want to illuminate or preclude artisanal fishing of sharks. “The other good thing in there is the proposal to make the Turks Bank a marine mammal sanctuary. “That’s another great idea and I think that should be extended to cover the entire Turks and Caicos Islands also. “Here in Providenciales we have lots of whales that show up during the season and dolphins and they should be protected just as the ones from the Turks Bank.” Turning his attention to the adverse effects these changes will have on certain areas of the National Park, Stark said: “Number one, a proposed change to the wording in the regulations that currently prohibits the removing of sand or coral rag from the National Park except for the maintenance and traditional use. “They want to change the words ‘traditional use’ to ‘wise use,’ and to me wise use in the US and in England has taken a legal meaning that basically provides a loop hole for Governments to do pretty much anything they want in protected areas.
“And I think that’s a disaster waiting to happen and that just means that if this Government or future Government decides they want to put a cruise centre terminal in the middle of Grace Bay they can under the guise of ‘wise use’.” Stark is of the firm view that the wording should remain ‘traditional use’ since this terminology was just added a little over two years ago. “I don’t know why the they think it needs to be changed unless the Government has something up their sleeves that they want to do with the National Park that they cannot do because its prohibited.” He further pointed to the proposed removal of certain sections out of Chalk Sound, Pigeon Pond and Frenchman’s Creek Nature Reserve. “The commercial parcels that they are talking about taking out are parcels that were sold to people during the Michael Misick’s era, and are currently still subject to the corruption trial that’s supposedly starting in December. “So these people ended up buying the property knowing it was a National Park with the promise that things will be changed for the development.” Stark is appealing to officials to reconsider these changes since they will have adverse effects on thriving marine life and ecosystems in these areas. Efforts by the Weekly News to reach the Minister of Environment Porsha Stubbs-Smith for a comment on this issue proved futile up to press time. PETITION OUTLINE The online petition which is gaining momentum has well over 689 supporters with an aim of
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garnering 1,000 supporters strong. The petition outlines that: “Pigeon Pond and Frenchman’s Creek Nature Reserve (PPFCNR) is the only landscape-level protected area in the western Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI). “Within its boundaries are unfragmented tropical dry forests that provide habitat to resident and migratory bird species and numerous plants that are endemic or found only within a small geographic range in the Turks and Caicos and Bahamas. “In addition to protected terrestrial habitats, the PPFCNR contains an extensive network of estuarine and palustrine wetlands that are critical habitats for West Indian flamingos and numerous other bird species. “The estuaries are the only nursery habitat for marine species, such as endangered sea turtles, sharks and reef fish. “In this way, the estuaries support all of the coral reefs in the entire western half of the archipelago.” It further states that: “Development will threaten the health of these ecosystems, reducing their ecological values and functions. “These are the only protected land areas on the island of Providenciales, which is currently experiencing rapid development. “The Government of the Turks and Caicos is now seeking to remove almost all of the terrestrial lands in these protected areas from the nature reserve in order to allow for residential, marina and hotel development. “If this takes place, it will set a terrible precedent that will put all of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ protected land areas at risk. “Such a move also robs future generations of their natural heritage, simply for the economic gain of a few people.”
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
We welcome letters from all members of the public on a variety of topics Please note that all submissions are subject to editing in keeping with defamation laws and newspaper style. Letters should be accompanied by the author’s full name, location and phone number. Names will be withheld if requested.
Value our residents – part two – Open letter to the Premier Dear Honourable Premier and Commissioner of Complaints, Beyond our experience with the ambulance service, nothing the family experienced in the weeks which followed the death of Mr Hawkins was worse than our experience with the morgue in Providenciales. On the night in which Mr Hawkins died, the morgue operator informed the family that an autopsy on Mr Hawkins was required and that it would occur either the Tuesday or Thursday of that week. We (the family) were informed that the country did not have the benefit of a resident pathologist and that one had to be contracted and brought to the Islands to perform the examination.
Concerned about the Government’s ability to swiftly acquire a pathologist the family queried the possibility of privately hiring one to assist in order to ensure that Mr Hawkins’ case was attended to immediately. We thought the gesture would have been a welcomed one, particularly since it was expressed that there were difficulties in securing one, but we were advised that it was not possible and as a result were restricted to waiting for whenever the Government had the capacity to secure a pathologist. The family was told that the date and time of the examination would be confirmed to us by the morgue operator no later than Monday evening (i.e. September 28, 2015).
We did not receive a call as promised. On Tuesday, September 29, 2015 the family still heard nothing from the morgue operator, however whilst attending the CID office that day an officer informed the family that the procedure had been delayed and that the date for the examination was unknown because a contract and arrival date had yet to be arranged with the usually contracted pathologist. Whilst we appreciate that the hurricane which then affected these Islands in the days immediately thereafter would have caused further delays to the arrival of the pathologist, we did not appreciate the fact that during the delayed time we received absolutely no calls from the morgue operator who promised to keep the family updated and we were left entirely in the dark as to the status of the scheduling of Mr
MILLS MUSES
Being human I ONCE posed a question to some students about what constitutes a human being. They placed great emphasis on the physical nature of persons. When I asked if there were any other features beside the physical, they looked puzzled, and then the real discussion began. The question is, and we hardly think about it, what is it to be really human? Being human means living the qualities and behaviours that came with us when we were created. We all came from a state where there was no such thing as anger, jealousy, crime, greed, spite, or advantage taking. Rather, there was brotherhood and sisterhood. Tender-heartedness, and peace. An absence of persecution, blame, and evil thinking. We have come from a state of perfection, goodness, unending forgiveness and love. And most of all a state where illness is unknown and life is forever. The qualities above are what we are made of, and are integral to our being. But society has corrupted us, giving us a different set of values which causes us to forget the enduring ones we are made of. Society decided it needed to rid us of those values that are natural
BY OLIVER MILLS
Oliver Mills is a former lecturer in education at the UWI Mona Campus. He holds a BA (Hons.) UWI, an M.Ed. Dalhousie Univ., an MA University of London, and a Postgraduate Diploma in HRM and Training, Leicester Univ. He currently writes a Column for the TC Weekly News.
to us and impose rules that are in the interest of the few. Penalties were set when it was thought the others were not staying in their place. We were then divided into classes based on wealth, politics, and colour. Our un-spoilt nature was tarnished, we forgot who we really are, and assumed the image others gave us. We became less human and this is why humans seem to behave the same everywhere, going against their true values such as those mentioned above. But we need to return to the state we once were and which never left us so we can again be truly human. We need to change society so that co-operation replaces competition. Understanding and compassion replace greed. And repossession based on money power, is replaced by negotiation
for better terms so there is a winwin situation. And no one is embarrassed. This is what being human is about. Being human is also about taking the circumstances of persons into account and structuring institutions and businesses to serve, and be ethical in their dealings so that helpfulness becomes the key. Those who repossess will soon realise that karma has the last word. Being human entails fair treatment, rendering justice equally and giving others a chance. It is not bearing false witness against each other but encouraging others in despair and seeing the plight of the least among us as our own. So when we again begin to live these values, we become our true selves and fully human.
Hawkins’ autopsy. The experience of such uncertainty, especially in the midst of non-communication by those who purport to be in control over the situation is not a pleasant one and no grieving family in these islands should be subjected to such treatment and disregard. The following Monday, October 5, 2015 (eight days after Mr Hawkins’ passing), the family having heard nothing from the morgue operator since the night of Mr Hawkins’ death contacted her to enquire about the scheduling of the autopsy. We were told that we would be contacted later that day to receive an update. The following morning the morgue operator arranged to meet with Mr Hawkins’ sons during that meeting she informed his sons that the autopsy was scheduled for the Wednesday that same week and that Mr Hawkins’ examination was scheduled to be done first as his case was deemed to not require a long examination due to an already suspected cause of death in which no foul play was suspected. We further viewed the fact that he was due to be one of the first examinations to be because his remains had already been waiting for more than a week that his death was amongst the first of those waiting to be examined. During the said meeting, the morgue operator also had Mr Hawkins’ sons sign forms which authorised the release of Mr Hawkins’ remains to the mortician of their choice immediately after the autopsy was done. The sons informed the morgue operator that based on the information provided to them by her that plans were being made to bury Mr Hawkins the following Saturday (October 17, 2015). The morgue operator informed the sons that she would contact the family that evening to confirm the time of the autopsy. No call was received. On Wednesday morning, October 7, 2015, the same CID officer who informed the family of the delay called one of Mr Hawkins’ sons to inform him that Mr Hawkins’ autopsy was scheduled to be performed that afternoon. Upon receiving this news a member of the family contacted to verify the information received, which the morgue operator confirmed and further explained that Mr Hawkins’ body had been removed from the freezer the day before in order to allow adequate time for defrosting before the procedure. Later that morning the CID officer again called Mr Hawkins’ son
and informed him that the autopsy was confirmed for that afternoon and that the family should come to the morgue at 3.30pm to formally identify Mr Hawkins’ body. At 3.30 pm that day Mr Hawkins’ wife, two sons, daughter and niece went to the morgue as instructed and waited outside to be met and instructed for the purpose of identifying Mr Hawkins’ remains. The family’s hope of finally having Mr Hawkins’ death examined and further being able to proceed with planning the burial he deserved had been built up on the information provided by the morgue operator and the CID officer. The family waited for about an hour in the afternoon sun waiting to be received by the morgue operator and at about 4.30pm the morgue operator and the CID officer came outside the morgue to meet the eager and expecting family. Much to our dismay and after being subjected to the boiling sun for an hour, the morgue operator informed the family that Mr Hawkins’ autopsy would not be proceeding that day and that they were going to return Mr Hawkins’ (defrosted) body back to the freezer and were rescheduling his autopsy for the following day. The explanation given to the family was in essence that the pathologist decided to change the order in which she would do the autopsies and had decided that the death of the tourist who fell off the Seven Stars Resort roof was a more important matter and that the return of his remains to his family in the USA took priority. That news was shocking to us because Mr Hawkins died a week before the tourist and it was disturbing to hear that the investigation into the death of this tourist was more important than the investigation into the death of a native islander who dedicated his entire adult life to the commerce of this country. It was further disturbing that the family had to hear this after being subjected to the sun for about an hour. Despite any adverse feelings the family had about this news at the time, the family politely said ‘thank you’ to the morgue operator and officer and agreed to return to the morgue the following morning at 9am to identify Mr Hawkins as instructed. Sincerely, The Family of the late Selvyn (Philip) Hawkins Chalk Sound, Providenciales (Letter to continue next week)
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
NEWS
COMMENTARY
Thanksgiving turkeys
HANKSGIVING is upon us and we will be celebrating the day with sister and brother in laws and children. There will be a feast. Yvette is cooking the crab and rice. Others will bring macaroni and cheese, ham, cakes, pies, fruit cake and also turkey. Aditha and Junior, Quentin, Bradford, Lydia, Sharon and Bernadette. Daughters, sons, and grandchildren. Friends will make up what will seem to be half of the Turks and Caicos Islands. One thing you find out when you become older is life as a senior requires courage. You just can’t do what you did when you were young. Way back when you were 50 or 60! A friend in his 90s said: “If I
BY DAVID TAPFER
David is a retired mobile hydraulic engineer and business executive. He has been married to Middle Caicos native Yvette Robinson Tapfer for 25 years and has lived in Conch Bar, Middle Caicos, since 2002. David formerly served as branch chairman of the PDM from 2008 to 2011
could only be 80 again!” Pain, pills and looking backwards, that’s what seniors do. True to senior status we think back to what seems to be a 100 years ago. Thanksgiving was a big day way back then in good old Cleveland, Ohio. I was in high school. My dad who had terminal multiple sclerosis was flat on his back in the bedroom in an old
hospital bed someone had loaned to my mother. We were on public assistance, now called welfare. Not today’s USA welfare which showers recipients with everything one needs in life, even when the family bread winner is able to work. Mom had her work cut out for her. Nursing dad 24/7 and raising my
mentally challenged brother Jim and yours truly. As Thanksgiving approached the affordability of a turkey was in question. Walking home from high school we stopped at our friend Tom’s house who lived half way from school another mile from home. There was a nice big turkey in the kitchen sink. Tom’s mom was upset. That morning their dog had taken their raw turkey off the table. Before they could chase the dog it took a small bite out of the turkey’s hide. They planned to discard the slightly damaged bird and replace it. All because the dogs mouth had touched it on the kitchen floor. They gave me that bird and mom was so pleased to have a free turkey that only needed to be thoroughly
washed. In those good old days turkey was something special. We never had turkey during the rest of the year. Long ago dad passed away. Mom is gone, Ma Charity is gone, prematurely. Jim has crossed over. We celebrate their lives and miss them. Yes we look backwards and are concerned about the future of the world including the Turks and Caicos Islands. The bright young children of our family everywhere and Middle Caicos provides the hope for the future of what has become a world in turmoil. We offer Thanksgiving for them!
The public service must lead - PART TWO FOLLOWING on from part one where I discussed the public service leading on employment practices, another area it must also lead is remuneration equity. While the much touted pay and grading scheme has been implemented, there still remains remuneration inequity throughout the civil service. Presently you have four major groups of civil servants: The first are the Permanent Secretaries (PS) and Deputy Permanent Secretaries (DPS) that are on three to five year contracts with huge but fixed salaries. By all indications they do not get a gratuity or end of contract bonus. The second group is first and second time contract holders primarily made up of foreign nationals. Their terms include at least a 15 percent gratuity on successful completion of contract, duty exemption on the import of a vehicle and other goods within the first six months of employment, round trip tickets for them, spouse and two to three children where applicable, housing allowance the for duration of their contract, plus vehicle, telephone and other allowances as applicable to the post. Additionally, they have an option to go on ‘local terms’ after completion of two contracts. The third and likely smallest of the four groups is locals joining
the service before April 1992 when the National Insurance Scheme was introduced. They are eligible for 10 to 15 percent of their pension to be converted as gratuity on leaving the service, though it was the intention during the interim administration to phase out that provision over time. Still that gratuity is not a ‘true’ gratuity as in the case of contract officers. That’s pretty much it! There however is the possibility for group three to receive allowances if applicable to the post or in the case of housing if they are transferred to another island not designated as your home base. The forth and biggest group is locals joining the service after April 1992. They get their employment terms and in the majority of cases are not eligible for any allowances. Clearly there is not remuneration equity in the civil service which is essentially set up like a caste system where some will have and will continue to benefit more than others. Before I move on to possible solutions for the above, can we please eliminate the terminology ‘local terms’ from our lexicon! It harkens back to an era long passed and just highlights the unfairness of the employment of Turks and Caicos Islanders whom are in a less beneficial position than others within our own public service. Yet we wonder why we are treated the way we are in both the public and private sector as second and third class when successive Governments have sanctioned it by the simple use
of the words and meaning of ‘local terms.’ So, what are the solutions? Solution one, cut out true gratuity for all contract workers and use the savings to introduce an award and performance bonus scheme for all civil servants to benefit. As argued from my TCICSA days, the scheme can be tied to performance appraisal targets and issued every two to three years once a majority of targets have been met for consecutive years by employees. The greater the number of years of consecutive great works the bigger the pay-out. The scheme can be applied to both contract and non-contract workers. The only consideration to this would be whether heads of departments and above should be eligible given their already high salaries. Should the decision be made for it to be applied to PSs and DPSs, the minister for which they are serving and the Deputy Governor should conduct the appraisal to establish how effective they were in carrying out the agenda of the Government of the day. This solves a huge part of the inequity for the largest group of the four made up of primarily Turks and Caicos Islanders. The bonus also provides an immediate investment opportunity for civil servants either as individuals or as a group should they wish to do so. Simply, a person should not have to wait until the end of their career to find a post retirement investment
BY JAMELL ROBINSON when they can build their nest egg throughout their years of service. Starting a fund with an initial $5 million and adding two to three million dollar in subsequent years, the investment arm of an organisation such as the National Insurance Board could invest and grow it, which would make the program viable for years to come. This is an alternate to leaving the funds to be generated by the recurrent revenue each year which would leave it open to year to year fiscal shocks. Solution two. Simply put everyone in TCIG on contract and let the terms be the terms, equal across the board. In the year 2015, the civil service is not looked at as a lifelong career option as in days of old. Between present bottlenecks in upward mobility and lack of long term benefits, any potential employee will always kept their options open for a possible move to the private sector. There is nothing wrong with that
either as sometimes you have to move over in order to move up. The notion that having all persons on contract will result in continuity issues is folly because at any point a person could leave their current post as is, whether through promotion within TCIG, a new job in the private sector, study leave, or death. In all cases it’s next man up. Several benefits will manifest however. Greater efficiency will result as all persons will be working towards their next contract ie. if you hit your targets you stay and are rewarded accordingly, if not you go. Think about a basketball player in a contract year, they often produce their best statistics as they are seeking a new contract. The same would apply here as well. Also, this forces the development of greater continuity because persons could leave at any time and the next person or persons would have to step in. This would put an end to the current phenomenon that departments cannot function if the head is on vacation or isn’t available. To conclude, if an organisation which is led by a majority of Turks and Caicos Islanders cannot lead and implement these simple things, how are we going to lead in the complex areas which are associated with moving the TCI towards independence? That’s why the public service must lead!
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Criminal conviction leaves mother jobless BY DAISY HANDFIELD AFTER serving a prison sentence for conspiracy in 2014, Dellerise Bottex has been unable to find employment in the TCI. In an interview with the Weekly News on Wednesday (November 25), Bottex was on the verge of tears. She said that after serving five months out of her eight months sentence in Grand Turk, she has searched for work and has been turned down by every company she applied at. She said: “I have spoken to people in the police force about it and they are saying that there is nothing that they can do because it is the law. “They said that it is four years to clean your record so I am wondering, should I not eat? “Should I not be able to support my only son for that whole time? “The bad part about it is that I had to send my son away from the island to live with someone because I cannot afford to support my son because I do not have a job. “I think as a Turks and Caicos Islander and having been in problems once in my whole life, should I not be given a second chance?” Bottex confessed that when she attends job interviews and fills out the forms, she is completely honest and tells the potential employers that she has indeed been convicted. “I explain it to them and I tell them. Once I tell them, I never get a call back, but the job vacancy is always there. “If they ask me to produce a police record, I can produce a police record, but how can I produce a record with conspiracy on it? The first thing
Dellerise Bottex
they will say is, we cannot hire her,” Bottex said. The troubled woman said that the TCI Government should look into amendments to some laws because if not, people that have been convicted in the past and already served time in prison will be back in prison. If they are not given a second opportunity to work many will turn to crime, she said. “These same people are going to return in prison because if they are not given an opportunity to get a job, they are going to commit crimes because they have families that they have to feed and if they cannot support their hungry children, they are definitely going to rob somebody or they are going to do something to end up back in prison. “Yes, I believe that people should get prosecuted for the wrong that they have done but at the same time I think that people who are not in problems all the time should be
given a second chance. “People who have only did wrong one time in their life. “It is like I am serving two punishments because I already did my time in prison and now I have a dirty police record and cannot find a job.” Judge Joan Joyner handed down sentences to Sheila Bain and Dellerise Bottex at Providenciales Supreme Court on March 12, 2015. The details of the conspiracy charge stated that between April 1, 2011, and September 30, 2011, Shelia Bain, Dellerise Bottex and Lorne Jean Mary conspired together to dishonestly obtain money from various people in Providenciales. Bottex’s ill health - respiratory and diabetic issues - along with the fact that she is a single mother and the sole provider for her underage child, were taken into account when the judge sentenced her to eight months in jail.
Winner announced for supermarket car promotion AFTER narrowing down the draw to five finalists, Pearl Bernadin walked off as the winner of the Graceway IGA’s 2015 Hyundai i10 promotion, taking home the brand new car. The winner was announced during the draw on November 20 at the Smart Supermarket in Downtown, Providenciales. Initially, there were five finalists but one was disqualified because of the lack of a valid Turks and Caicos Island’s driver’s licence. During the event, Bernadin said that up to her name being called as the winner, it all seemed surreal to her. She said: “I was like, is this for real? I am grateful to IGA, as being my number one store from the get go.” She joked that her son would always ask her if she was not tired of always going to IGA supermarket,
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but coincidentally it all paid off. The other three finalists were given a voucher worth $250 to shop at any of the IGA supermarket branches in Providenciales. General manager of the IGA supermarket, Ken Burns said that this promotion was one of many to come. “A lot of people put in a lot of hard work in this event and we certainly appreciate it. “It has been fun and we do it to pay back to the community and give back to our customers what they give to us all year. “We are pleased to do this.” Customers that purchased $50 worth of groceries or more from any of the IGA supermarket branches were eligible to enter the promotion. Their details were written down and entered into the raffle. (BY DAISY HANDFIELD)
‘We have a strong story to tell London’ - Governor GOVERNOR Peter Beckingham has said he is looking forward to talking about the TCI at an upcoming overseas territory meeting in London, England. The fourth meeting of the Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council (JMC) will be held in London on December 1 and 2 at Lancaster House. The JMC is the principal forum for reviewing and implementing the shared strategy for promoting security, good governance and sustainable development of the British overseas territories It will be hosted by FCO Minister for the Overseas Territories James Duddridge MP. In a press release on November 9, Governor Beckingham said: “The Joint Ministerial Council is an important forum for Premiers from the overseas territories to meet UK ministers, exchange views and consider key common issues. “I look forward to attending the council for the third occasion with the Premier.” He stressed that the TCI has always made an important contribution on major topics,
especially security, healthcare and economic developments. “I know that UK ministers will be keen to hear first-hand about our recent economic successes, not least the re-financing of the UKguaranteed loan and the impressive turnaround in our budget over the last two years. “We have a strong story to tell London and other territories.” The JMC strategy, set out in the 2012 Overseas Territories White Paper, calls for a whole of government approach to supporting the overseas territories and territory leaders will have discussions with ministers from a range of UK government departments. Issues to be discussed this year include child safeguarding, economic development, and setting a vision for the UK and the overseas territories in 2030. Elected leaders and representatives from the following territories will attend Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, Montserrat, Pitcairn, St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, and the Turks and Caicos Islands.
DEMA clears air on ‘wise use’ ... CONTINUED FROM
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Opposition Party. The Government’s proposed changes to the National Park include, removing Split Rock and Pirates Cove from the National Park to allow shipping dock to be built. A clause is being added to allow ‘wise-use’ that is any developmental dredging etc in any protected area in the country. Silly Island and parts of Chalk Sound are being removed from the National Park. Parts of Frenchman’s Creek and Pigeon Pond Nature Reserve are being removed from the National Park.
Residents have opposed these changes on the grounds that the development will threaten the health of these ecosystems, reducing their ecological values and functions. The final consultation meeting will be held in Grand Turk at the Dillon Hall at 6.30pm on Thursday (November 26). Comments on the proposed changes will be accepted until Friday (November 27) through emails at environment@gov. tc or phone 338-4161 or written comments can be submitted at a DEMA office.
Pearl Bernadin gets comfortable in the driver’s seat of her brand new car
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PDM slates Government over lack of write-off info
INFORMATION should be provided openly and freely when it comes to the people’s money, the PDM stressed recently. In a press release on Thursday, November 19, the Opposition party said it rejected the Government’s “petty politics”. “[TCIG] stated during and after the last week’s meeting of the House of Assembly that it was providing relief to Lime and its staff and that the PDM was not supporting the write off and was doing so unjustly. “At the outset, the PDM maintains that it had a right on behalf of the people of these Islands to ask for more information that it can make a more informed decision.” Last week it was revealed that telecoms company Lime will no longer have to pay a massive $12 million in penalties for late payment
of telecommunications taxes. The Government passed a motion for a write-off of the charges after a hearty debate in the House of Assembly. The Office of the Premier said that this was as a measure of good gesture to Lime, the longest standing corporate citizen of the TCI. In their press release the PDM said they received a Government motion with a narrative outlining a brief history but not complete in all the relevant information. Members sighted the procedure as it was known with regard to write offs and it was not followed, the release added. The party then asked for supporting documentation specifically to whose audit the Government was relying on, the tax that this related to on behalf of Lime and the tax that it
Finance workers attend domestic insurance training workshop BY OLIVIA ROSE NOVICES and veterans of the insurance industry in the Turks and Caicos Islands were this week exposed to a comprehensive three days training seminar on domestic insurance. The seminar which was held at the Palms Turks and Caicos from Monday to Wednesday (November 23 to 25) provided an in depth introduction to insurance and basic underwriting concepts. It was facilitated by the TCI Financial Services Commission (FSC) in partnership with the Insurance Institute of Barbados. Delivering opening remarks at the seminar, chairman of the FSC Oswald Simons underscored the importance of the training, and intellectual and proficiency value it will have on the local insurance industry. “I wish to congratulate all of you, of the insurance industry who have agreed to invest three days of your work week in this workshop in the expectation that you will be rewarded with knowledge and
expertise commensurate in quantity and quality to suitably enhance your respective careers.” Simons added that in addition to regulating the financial services industry, the FSC seeks to ensure that providers and practitioners in the industry as well as the general public who consume their services are educated in the usages and best practices associated with these services. “The ultimate goal is to protect the public from unscrupulous dealers and inferior products. What better way to protect than by information and education.” The FSC’s chairman noted that: “It should be obvious that the industry be responsible to provide such education through its own efforts by way of its organisations and institutions such as the insurance industry in Barbados does through its own insurance institute.” He pointed out that the fledging local insurance industry has neither the numbers nor the financial resources to provide such education on an ongoing basis. “I am sure that there are people
related to on behalf of Islandcom. “The Minister of Finance offered that the tax in respect of Lime was based on landlines and has yet to answer what the amount of $80,000 write off in respect of Islandcom was in respect of considering that it offered no land line services. “The additional question as to whether the tax in relation to Lime was an existing tax which saw a variation or a new tax left unaddressed was also left unanswered and an answer will also have allowed the Opposition to understand how was it that Lime, its auditors and TCIG all missed the requirement to pay this tax. “This should be concerning but more importantly should have been made clearer in the interest of transparency.” The release went on to say that while the minister refused to provide
information and to answer the questions, he has left Lime at risk of undue criticism. “Our people crave more information from this Government and this is the reason why a Freedom of Information Motion was brought to combat these situations.” The release concluded: “We will be doing our people a disservice if we were ever to go into parliament and not provide the important oversight role but also if we were to vote blindly on matters without the benefit of all the relevant information.” In 2014 the Revenue Department, in conducting an audit on the telecommunications company, discovered that for the period June 2010 to May 2014, Lime had not levied taxes on its clients for a wide range of taxable services. This amounted to some $3.5
million in back taxes and following a change in law in 2011 penalties on those taxes accrued in an overarching way. They amounted to about $13 million for the period that it remained owing to Government, June 2010 to October 2015. In October of this year Lime paid the unlevied taxes of $3.5 million on behalf of its customers but sought relief from the Government on the penalties, payment of which, according to the company, would have a negative impact on its customers and ultimately its operations in the country. Following negotiations with Lime the Government agreed to a payment in the amount of $1 million on the penalties and collected the full $3.5 million in back taxes which Lime agreed not to charge to its customers.
Participants of the workshop
Gina Welch, workshop facilitator and director of the Insurance Institute of Barbados
Chairman of the Financial Services Commission (FSC), Oswald Simons
in the insurance industry here even today who have had very little formal education or training in basic underwriting concepts or in the finer points of the business. “Or who have not been tested in any way to prove suitable aptitude and skills for the industry. “Such is the case with our other small industries, banking, trusts, cooperate governance and the like. “The TCI FSC has in each and every case stepped up to the plate and provided such courses and workshops as necessary with the
help of our regional partners in the Bahamas and the wider Caribbean. “It is our hope that we will continue to raise standards across the spectrum of industries in our efforts and to inform and educate our practitioners and to protect the consumer.” Gina Welch, facilitator of the workshop and director of the Insurance Institute of Barbados, thanked the FSC for the opportunity to help local insurance personnel expand their skills and widen their scope in the insurance field.
Welch has a long history in the insurance industry, she has been tutoring Motor Insurance for the past 12 years in both Barbados Diploma in Insurance (BDI) and Certificate of Proficiency (COP) programmes. She also tutors both divisions of the Property and Pecuniary courses of the BDI. She is trained in curriculum development and has written five of the textbooks currently being used by the institute. Welch also holds a BDI and BCI (Barbados Chartered Insurer) designation and has completed extensive training in anti-money laundering compliance both locally and in the UK. Upon completion of this training, delegates new to the industry and seasonal professionals alike, will be able to apply the concepts learned through a series of hands-on case studies as well draw from the theoretical framework and practical advice provided. They will also be able to examine the fundamental concepts and techniques for dealing with risk. The seminar also provided a complete overview of the workings of the domestic insurance industry and discussed latest industry trends.
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Boosting knowledge of financial services FINANCIAL services professionals partnered up with their Bahamian counterparts recently to boost their industry knowledge. The Bahamas Institute of Financial Services (BIFS) joined the Turks and Caicos Financial Services Commission (FSC) for a development and training course. It boasted seven seminars and workshops which included credit risk, compliance and corporate governance, anti-money laundering, trust administration and the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act. According to a press release from
the BIFS on Saturday (November 21), the institute was delighted to have engaged in another prestigious event with the FSC in the launch of the new internationally accredited course on the fundamentals of financial services. The course began on September 8 in Nassau while simultaneously being broadcast live via real-time web conferencing to 10 employees of the FSC on Grand Turk. An online exam was held on Saturday at the offices of the FSC in Grand Turk. Employees then received their
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The FSC team during the training
results immediately at the end of their computer based exam. ‘The Fundamentals of Financial Services’ is a programme that conveys the essential basic knowledge of financial services. Candidates learnt about the industry and commonly used financial products, such as shares, bonds and insurance and it provided them with an understanding of a wide range of financial services terminology. The programme was designed by The Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments (CISI) in the UK. CISI is the professional body of choice for professionals in the securities and investment industry in the UK and in a growing number of major financial centres globally.
Formed in 1992 by London Stock Exchange practitioners, they have a global community of more than 40,000 members in 121 countries and last year more than 41,000 CISI exams were sat in 73 countries. According to the release: “The financial services sector is changing and it is very competitive and will continue to evolve for some time to come. “Therefore it is imperative that the institute and the FSC continue to foster the development of employees in financial services.” It added: “The institute would like to thank Mr Kevin Higgins, managing director, Turks and Caicos Islands Financial Services Commission, Ms Tianna Williams, office manager
and the entire team at FSC for their dedication and commitment to the protection and growth of the financial services sector in the Turks and Caicos Islands. “The institute also acknowledges the passionate resolution that Mr Kevin Higgins displays in spearheading the training and development of persons employed in the financial services sector. “He serves not only as the regulator, but also as an educator and nation builder. “We encourage him to keep up the good work and look forward to many more years working together.” The BIFS has been one of the primary providers of financial services education in the Bahamas for over 40 years.
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Barking mad –The annual TCSPCA dog show BY KATHI BARRINGTON AN IMPRESSIVE pack of potcakes and pedigrees put their best paws forward at the 10th annual TCSPCA ‘Just For Fun’ Dog Show on November 14. The event, perfect for family, tourists, and residents of any age, continues to draw the crowd to the big tent at Turtle Cove Marina every year. More than $20,000 was raised, which means that the TCSPCA affordable spay and neuter programme, core vaccination and wellness check programme will continue to be available in all the TCI. Canine contestant Sampson, a very handsome, multi-talented potcake puppy, won the coveted Best in Show this year, to the delight of owner and handler Jasmine Young. The charismatic young dog also placed in the Best Looking Male, and Waggiest Tail contests and took first in Most Original Potcake category. The obstacle course contestants certainly faced the most taxing event (for canine candidates and their handlers) and Sophie took that hands down, along with young owner Zoe Diotte-Joly. Mark Defraine’s lovely Zyzz took first in Best Trick and handsome Dylan, with his owner Mike Robertson, were the obvious winners of Best Matching Costumes. We think the matching Rayban shades clinched that one. Dylan also placed in the obstacle course, which he had failed to complete last year. The Best Looking Female was the very pretty Elsa, but Gucci and Pepzee were very close runners up. This year there was also a special award, in honour of Joe Mielty, for the Potcake Most Deserving of a Prize. His good friend Kristi Vestal presented the award. The annual event got going at 1pm, with the ebullient, gorgeous and delightfully silly Mary Lou Vanderheide (Clarity Marketing) emceeing once again. She kept the crowds laughing and the pace brisk. Judges this year were Heather Forbes, chairman and director of the Potcake Foundation, Wilhelmina Kissoonsingh, our new Director of Agriculture, Donald Astwood, president of the TCSPCA, and Teann
Thomas, the junior business analyst for Fortis, which is and has been the lead sponsor of the show for several years. FortisTCI’s Talisha Simons and Dwayne Kranowski were in on the planning of this year’s show, and FortisTCI sent a group of their people to help set up. · Guests of honour Judith Missick, director of human resources for FortisTCI, and Donna Doran, owner and operator of Pampered Paws, also graced the event. We have Steven Henderson of the Claymore Group, and TCSPCA Vice president Barb Young to thank, for the efficient tallying of points and final scoring for each event, and The Landing for the delightful, tasty food and drinks for sale during the afternoon. Dare I mention on the same line that TC Sanitation provided the loos for the event. Thank you all! This major fund-raising event for the oldest established animal welfare group in the country has many people to thank for their generous raffle prizes, and sponsorship. Their unstinting generosity allows the TCSPCA do what it does best – help all the animals of the Turks & Caicos, and to truly be a voice for those who cannot speak. Big thank yous to main sponsors Graceway IGA, Turtle Cove Marina, which provided the venue, Power 92, Kiss FM and PTV8 for publicity, special first place prizes from Krista Dicks – 30 minute canine massage. Platinum sponsor Mango Reef Restaurant and gold sponsors Alexandra Resort, The Palms Resort, The Gansevoort T+C, Turtle Cove Marina. Donated raffle prizes were one night at the Alexandra, including $100 credit for dinner at Asu, Beaches Day Pass for two adults and three children, two nights at Blue Horizon Resort on Middle Caicos, two nights at the Grand Turk Inn and seven course wine tasting dinner at Kitchen 218, Beach House. If you missed the 2015 TCSPCA Dog Show, we’ll be doing it again next year and we’re looking forward to seeing you. In the meantime, if you want to help, by donating funds or time, services in kind or be an adoption courier, please contact tcspca@ tciway.tc or call 941-8846.
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Emma and her golden Golden in the obstacle course
Delphine and her pup Scouse Josie Smith with her dog Baxter Daniels, first place Waggiest Tale
Dylan, so very cool in his shades
Best Matching Costume went to Mike Robertson and Dylan
Best in Show Sampson, held by owner and handler Jasmine Young
Competitors came in all shapes and sizes
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Gov’t approves bill to support new businesses THE GOVERNMENT has passed a new Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) Bill which will encourage the establishment of new businesses as well as lend support to those currently in operation. The bill will come into effect on its signing by Governor Peter Beckingham and through notice of its passage into law in the Gazette. Its main objectives are the empowerment of Turks and Caicos Islanders, the encouragement of locals to become business owners, and to give new entrepreneurs a head start in the business world as they make the transition from employees to employers. According to a press release from the Premier’s Office on Wednesday (November 25) there
are several main priority areas for small business development. They include farming, fisheries, manufacturing and processing, industrial cleaning services, tourism attractions, arts and music and innovation and technology. Support for businesses in these areas will range from cash grants to duty concessions as well as technical support from the newly established Invest TCI and the Centre for Entrepreneurial Development (CDB). Rufus Ewing, Premier and Minister of Health, Agriculture and Human Services, who led on the development of the SME initiative noted that activities to revive the SME sector have been on-going. He gave kudos to the ground
work done by the former champions on the subject and that of the steering committee that was established under his Government which brought about the guidelines for the bill that was tabled for debate in the House of Assembly. Premier Ewing said: “This piece of legislation is critical to the development and support of businesses in our country and I am pleased that it has now passed in the House of Assembly. “We are extremely grateful for the contribution that our larger businesses make, but as a Government and as a country, we must support our small and medium businesses, as it is the activity and success of this critical sector that determines the success of any
economy. “The most economically stable countries have a thriving SME sector which in turn develops a sustainable middle class. “Therefore I would encourage all hopeful entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams, make the transition from employee to employer and be the business owner that you long to be.” He stressed that the priority areas identified in the bill are also significant as the Government seeks to diversify the TCI’s economic activity from over reliance on tourism and to strategically develop national food security to enable a reduction on dependency on imports. “But we know that tourism is currently our most lucrative market
and as Turks and Caicos Islanders, we need to be positioned to benefit from the financial gains and that can be done by setting up our own businesses and offering attractions that tourists can participate in. “Finally, as we promote the culture of these beautiful by nature Turks and Caicos Islands and foster awareness and pride in our heritage, we recognise the need to also support and showcase our arts and music while giving room for innovation and growth through technology. “So this bill, we feel provides the framework for a holistic approach to the development of these islands and we are excited about the opportunities that it presents to our people.”
Youth centre receives cheque for $1,000 from marathon BY DAISY HANDFIELD A CHEQUE for $1,000 was donated to the Edward Gartland Youth Centre in Providenciales from funds raised from the first annual Colour Fun Run, orchestrated by the Filipino community (FILCOM). President of FILCOM, Alfonso Palatino presented a cheque for the funds to the director of the centre, Roxann Wake Forbes on Tuesday (November 24). During an interview with Palatino on Wednesday (November 25), he said that FILCOM believed in the advancement of the youths in the TCI which is a reason they decided to make the presentation to the centre. He said: “We believe in the youth centre’s vision to help the young people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. “Our vision is parallel to the youth centre’s vision.” In a separate interview with Wake Forbes on the same day, she said that the youth centre is more than grateful to be the recipients of the donation. She said: “We are really pleased to have been considered in being the recipients of the cheque donation for this quite new initiative by the Filipino community and we are grateful that FILCOM is outreaching to the youths of our community.” According to president for FILCOM, the event was a huge success with more than 150 people in attendance. The Colour Fun Run was hosted on November 21, starting from the Bight Kids’ Park to the Somerset roundabout and then back to the park, at 5.30am that day. Registration was open from as
The event was well attended, with a participation of about 150 residents
Filipino residents in the Turks and Caicos Islands were extremely supportive of the event
President of FILCOM Turks and Caicos hands over cheque donation to the director of the Edward Gartland Youth Centre, Roxann Wake Forbes
Participants of the Colour Fun Run soaked in colourful paint
early as 5am on that day and many people showed up to register. The event was opened with a short prayer, then the fun started with trainer from the Graceway Sports Centre, Adina Ciurar strutting her moves to zumba music while participants followed her. Runners were splashed with
colour powder each time they passed the “powder and water station” – yellow, green, red, pink, orange and red. The first person to reach the finish line was a gentleman by the name of Eldre Williams. Leanne Higgs from Provo Roadrunners said that she truly had
fun and that it was as if they were children again for a while. Refreshments were served after the event. The mandate of FILCOM is to establish and maintain a group of Filipinos in the TCI to foster friendships and a close-knit community.
They also aim to formulate and implement programmes for the benefit and welfare of Filipinos in the TCI and to serve as an information advocate for the Philippine Trade and commerce, tourism and other agencies to help and promote their unique Filipino culture, arts and values.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
The history of Thanksgiving BY OLIVIA ROSE THANKSGIVING is a time to reflect upon the things that matter most in life and for which one is most grateful for. Many Americans will do just that this Friday (November 27) when they hold family gatherings, bake turkeys and embrace the warm presence of loved ones, all of which make this holiday the most anticipated holiday for Americans. Thanksgiving is often regarded by Americans as a wonderful time to celebrate getting out of school for a long weekend, and eating a great dinner, it is also symbolic for ushering-in the Christmas holiday season. When it comes to festivities, Thanksgiving is about as American as it gets. Three words – family, food, and football (the US version, that is) sum up the entire celebration. But while the US famously embraces the holiday today, it might not exist at all had it not been for a group of English separatists who decided to set sail for the New World. According to American Scholars in September 1620, a small ship called the Mayflower left Plymouth, England, carrying 102 passengers an assortment of religious separatists seeking a new home where they could freely practice their faith and other individuals lured by the promise of prosperity and land ownership in the New World. After a treacherous and uncomfortable crossing that lasted 66 days, they dropped anchor near the tip of Cape Cod, far north of their intended destination at the mouth of the Hudson River. One month later, the Mayflower crossed Massachusetts Bay, where the Pilgrims, as they are now commonly known, began the work of establishing a village at Plymouth.
Throughout that first brutal winter, most of the colonists remained on board the ship, where they suffered from exposure, scurvy and outbreaks of contagious disease. Only half of the Mayflower’s original passengers and crew lived to see their first New England spring. In March of that same year the remaining settlers moved ashore, where they received an astonishing visit from an Abenaki Indian who greeted them in English. Several days later, he returned with another Native American, Squanto, a member of the Pawtuxet tribe who had been kidnapped by an English sea captain and sold into slavery before escaping to London and returning to his homeland on an exploratory expedition. Squanto taught the Pilgrims, weakened by malnutrition and illness, how to cultivate corn, extract sap from maple trees, catch fish in the rivers and avoid poisonous plants. He also helped the settlers forge an alliance with the Wampanoag, a local tribe, which would endure for more than 50 years and tragically remains one of the sole examples of harmony between European colonists and Native Americans. In November 1621, after the Pilgrims’ first corn harvest proved successful, Governor William Bradford organised a celebratory feast and invited a group of the fledgling colony’s Native American allies, including the Wampanoag chief Massasoit. Now remembered as American’s ‘first Thanksgiving’ although the Pilgrims themselves may not have used the term at the time - the festival lasted for three days. While no record exists of the historic banquet’s exact menu, the Pilgrim chronicler Edward Winslow wrote in his journal that Governor Bradford sent four men on a
Thanksgiving a vital factor in happiness & health
“fowling” mission in preparation for the event, and that the Wampanoag guests arrived bearing five deer. Historians have suggested that many of the dishes were likely prepared using traditional Native American spices and cooking methods. Because the Pilgrims had no oven and the Mayflower’s sugar supply had dwindled by the fall of 1621, the meal did not feature pies, cakes or other desserts, which have become a hallmark of contemporary celebrations. In 1817, New York became the first of several states to officially adopt an annual Thanksgiving holiday; each celebrated it on a different day, however the American South remained largely unfamiliar with the tradition. In many American households, the Thanksgiving celebration has lost much of its original religious significance; instead, it now centers on cooking and sharing a bountiful meal with family and friends. Turkey, a Thanksgiving staple so ubiquitous it has become all but synonymous with the holiday, may or may not have been on offer when
the Pilgrims hosted the inaugural feast in 1621 scholars argue. Today, however, nearly 90 percent of Americans eat the bird whether roasted, baked or deep-fried - on Thanksgiving, according to the National Turkey Federation. Other traditional foods include stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie. Volunteering is a common Thanksgiving Day activity, and communities often hold food drives and host free dinners for the less fortunate. Parades have also become an integral part of the holiday in cities and towns across the United States. Presented by Macy’s department store since 1924, New York City’s Thanksgiving Day parade is the largest and most famous, attracting some 2 to 3 million spectators along its 2.5-mile route and drawing an enormous television audience. It typically features marching bands, performers, elaborate floats conveying various celebrities and giant balloons shaped like cartoon characters. Although the American concept of Thanksgiving developed in the colonies of New England, its roots
can be traced back to the other side of the Atlantic. Both the Separatists who came over on the Mayflower and the Puritans who arrived soon after brought with them a tradition of providential holidays - days of fasting during difficult or pivotal moments and days of feasting and celebration to thank God in times of plenty. As an annual celebration of the harvest and its bounty, moreover, Thanksgiving falls under a category of festivals that spans cultures, continents and millennia. In ancient times, the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans feasted and paid tribute to their gods after the fall harvest. Thanksgiving also bears a resemblance to the ancient Jewish harvest festival of Sukkot. Finally, historians have noted that Native Americans had a rich tradition of commemorating the fall harvest with feasting and merrymaking long before Europeans set foot on their shores. Since 2014 people of the Turks and Caicos Islands celebrate National Day of Thanksgiving on the fourth Friday in November. This holiday has little in common with the American Thanksgiving Day but is celebrated on the same day. In 2014 Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands Rufus Ewing declared the fourth Friday in November to be National Day of Thanksgiving. He encouraged islanders to set aside all their work and give thanks to God for the bounty of being on the islands, and give thanks to their families and friends for love and joy they give each other every day. Unlike American Thanksgiving Day, National Day of Thanksgiving is primarily a religious holiday. The churches across the islands hold special services on this day.
Hundreds of new post offices boxes in Grace Bay BY DAISY HANDFIELD FOUR hundred new post office boxes have recently been installed in the Regent Village in Providenciales to accommodate residents who live in Grace Bay and do not want to have to drive to the Downtown post office to pick up their mail. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Thursday (November 19) in the Regent Village where details on how to purchase a box were discussed. During the ceremony Post Master General Elizabeth Garland James said that this initiative was in efforts to improve the postal services in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Garland James said that there were still a number of boxes available for purchase for the price of $150. This payment amount would be made on an annual basis. The Post Master General said that these boxes brought a convenience to residents and businesses in Grace Bay who do not want to head Downtown to receive their mail. She said that they would also like to see the installation of more post boxes in other areas on island. Master of ceremonies Bill Clare said that times have changed and this initiative was something that was put on the backburner for a while. He said: “Times have changed a lot and as it was said earlier on, for
many years the post office was put it on the backburner but the present Post Master General really has a vision and this is just the beginning of things to come. “I said in my remarks, the business community has steadily moved from the Downtown area and now this is sort of like the premium commercial area. “In keeping with the changing of the time, the post office is correct in putting this here.” Clare said that he live in Leeward and it is about 10 miles from Downtown and even though he has an office Downtown, it is convenient for his wife to just go and pick up their mail.
New post boxes at The Regent Village
“I think it is definitely a plus for us. I just hope the business community and those living in that area support it,” Clare said. The initiative was attended by a
number of residents from the TCI business community. At the end of the ceremony, attendees were treated to light canapés.
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Resort chief named Caribbean Personality of the Year
Adam Stewart, Sandals Resorts International’s chief executive officer
ADAM Stewart, Sandals Resorts International’s chief executive officer, continued his award-winning year after being named Caribbean Personality of the Year. The recognition came at the International Caribbean World Travel and Living Awards this November. In its 21st year, the awards recognise excellence in travel, tourism and real estate
Primary school students participate in mangrove planting initiative BY DAISY HANDFIELD FOUR primary schools in Providenciales participated in a mangrove planting exercise at the Wheeland Pond in Blue Hills on Friday (November 28) as part of the celebration of the 2015 International Migratory Bird Festival. The festival was celebrated throughout the whole month of November under the theme, ‘Restore habitat, restore birds’. Among the schools involved were Oseta Jolly Primary School, BEST Institute, Provo Primary School and the International School of the Turks and Caicos Islands. It was a partnership between the Turks and Caicos National Trust and the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs (DEMA) to promote bird and habitat conservation education and advocacy for good habitat management in the TCI. In total 20 children along with representatives from the National Trust and DEMA planted mangrove and mahogany seedlings. Prior to the planting outreach coordinator for DEMA, Amy Avenant, explained to the children the importance of the habitat and the mangroves. They also participated in a bird watching exercise. Jonathan Sayao, the trust’s public awareness education programme manager, on Tuesday (November 24) said that their primary objective was to get the community involved with the children in planting the seedlings of the red mangroves
throughout the region. It is voted for by the magazine Caribbean World and its readers with special awards given by the magazine at its discretion. Previous years’ guests of honour include HRH Princess Katarina, Sir Trevor McDonald OBE and Hollywood film producer Michael Winner. “Being recognised by such an illustrious title such as Caribbean World and its readers is a tremendous honour for my team and I,” Stewart said. “At Sandals, we work hard to be the best, to be different and for people outside of our company to not just notice it but commend it is both deeply
humbling and satisfying. “We will we use this award, and others like it, as our inspiration to continue to set the bar for hospitality in the Caribbean and beyond.” For Stewart, this latest accolade comes fresh on the heels of being named the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s Hotelier of the Year for 2015 last month as well as the Jamaica Hotel and Tourism Association’s Hotelier of the Year for 2014/2015 earlier in the year. After almost a decade of Stewart’s stewardship, Sandals continues to follow a trajectory of growth that has been marked with new resorts,
new islands as well as industry changing innovation and development. Stewart’s leadership has transformed the all-inclusive concept to Luxury Included resorts that offer guests levels of exclusivity never seen before. Aside from Stewart’s personal triumphs, it caps an extraordinary month that saw the company being named the World’s Leading Luxury AllInclusive brand at the World Travel Awards last month. The company collected 17 awards in addition to receiving the notable recognition of Caribbean’s Leading Hotel Brand for the 22nd consecutive year.
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Students diligently plant mangroves
This initiative was a part of the celebration for the 2015 International Migratory Bird Festival
along the banks. Sayao also said that the day was celebrated under this theme because they recognised that the Wheeland Pond in that area is a very important habitat for birds and other wildlife. Sayao concluded by stating that mangroves are a very important part of the ecology because they protect
shorelines from damaging storm and hurricane winds, waves, and floods. They also helped prevent erosion by stabilising sediments with their tangled root systems. They maintain water quality and clarity, filtering pollutants and trapping sediments originating from land.
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW
BY DENIS BELANGER - NATURE SPLENDOR
Denis is a passionate landscape architect who enjoys the creative process and his clients’ joy when projects come to life. Contact Denis at Nature Splendor for your landscaping, installation or garden maintenance needs. For more information call 332-3381 or email denis@naturesplendor.net.
Coconut trees THE COCONUT palm (Cocos nucifera) is among the most extensively used trees worldwide and strongly associated with tropical landscapes. Multiple cultivars of the coconut palm offer varying degrees of trunk crookedness, leaf petiole and fruit colours (yellow, orange and green), growth rates, adaptability to soil conditions and levels of disease resistance. The origin of the coconut palm tree is not known with certainty, as this
plant was widely spread throughout the tropics long ago, although it may be native to the South Pacific or the Malay Archipelago. Coconut palm trees require full sunlight and well-drained soil and can tolerate brackish soil and high winds. The coconut is the most cultivated nut in the world and a very important commercial crop in many tropical countries. The nut meat, coconut oil from the dried meat and milk are used
for drinks, cooking, cosmetics and numerous other types of products. Unopened flowers can potentially produce coconut molasses and the hard-grained shell of the nut is carved into practical utensils and ornamental objects. Trunk wood is used for building and ornamental purposes and the coir from the fruit husk is woven for fabric or ropes. The coconut palm tree has a single, smooth columnar trunk and can grow 50 to 100 feet tall, depending on the cultivar. The trunk is light grayish-brown in colour, sometimes swollen at the base and usually gracefully curved or leaning. Leaves of the coconut palm tree are feather shaped, growing up to 18 feet long with individual lanceshaped leaflets that are two to three feet long and two to three inches
wide. The evergreen leaves grow in a terminal crown at the top of the trunk. The coconut flowers emerge from canoe-shaped sheaths within the crown of leaves. Each inflorescence is two to three feet long and contains light yellow female flowers near the base of the branchlet and smaller male flowers at the end of the branchlet. The female flowers mature into a fruit 15 inches long and 12 inches wide. The fruit has a thick, fibrous husk around a nut about six to eight inches wide and 10 to 12 inches long. Within the shell of this nut is a fleshy white layer known as the coconut’s meat or copra and a water liquid known as coconut milk that is absorbed by the meat as the nut ripens.
A healthy, mature coconut palm will produce about 50 nuts per year, each weighing approximately six pounds. Coconut palms are propagated only from seed. The seeds, or coconut nuts, are ready for planting when they make a sloshing sound upon shaking. Following soaking in water for two or three days, the nut is placed on its side or with the pointed end down in a well-drained site or container with well-drained growing medium and covered about halfway with sand or mulch. Germination occurs best with regular moisture and temperatures between 90 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit and takes three to six months. Coconut palms grow rapidly and can begin to bear fruit after as few as five years.
POLICE SAFETY TIPS
Reporting sexual assaults THE ROYAL Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) treats all reports of rape and sexual assault very seriously. If you’ve just been a victim of rape or sexual assault please call 911. The sooner that an assault is reported, the more evidence we will be able to collect to help prevent you or someone else being hurt again. We are dedicated to helping anyone, male or female, whatever your circumstances, who may have been a victim of this type of crime. The RTCIPF has specially trained officers, who are dedicated to helping and supporting victims of all sexual assaults.
These officers will investigate offences in a discreet and professional manner, offering support and guidance from the time of reporting through to the conclusion of an investigation. We understand that reporting a rape or sexual assault can be an extremely difficult thing to do, but our first priority is your safety and security. We’ll do everything we can to make sure you and your family receive the best possible care and support. If you’ve been raped, please remember it’s not your fault. Regardless of what you might’ve been wearing, how much you’d had to drink or who was involved, we’ll never treat any type of rape as more
or less serious, than any other. All victims of sexual assault are given anonymity by law. No information which could identify you can ever be published, so there’s no need to worry about anyone knowing what has happened. Call 911 (or ask a friend to call) to report your rape to police. Or, visit a hospital emergency room or your own doctor and ask them to call the police for you. If you visit the emergency room and tell the nurse you have been raped, the hospital will generally perform a sexual assault forensic examination. This involves collecting evidence of the attack, such as hairs, fluids and fibres, and preserving the evidence for forensic analysis.
By Audley Astwood Audley, a former police detective and broadcaster, is currently the press officer for the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force. His main focus is on crime prevention and community policing. For more information call 941-4448 or visit www.tcipolice.tc.
Our officers will do everything they can to put you at ease and feel as comfortable as possible. All cases of rape or sexual assault will be different but in all cases the officers will be open and honest and do their best to minimise trauma and offer support. The police will interview you, which may take several hours, depending on the circumstances of your case. Some questions will probably
feel intrusive, and the officer will probably go over the details of your attack several times. The extensive questioning isn’t because the police don’t believe you; it’s the officer’s job to get every detail down precisely, to make the strongest possible case against your rapist. Please visit our web site at www.tcipolice.tc or www. facebook.com/RTCIPF for more information.
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
Lifestyle...
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
ECO TIP Lynn Robinson has lived in the Turks and Caicos Islands for 12 years and works at Big Blue Unlimited as a diving instructor, eco guide and boat captain. She is passionate about the environment and does regular beach clean ups while walking her three potcakes. Her other passion is running and can often be seen training for marathons and ultra-marathons.
By Lynn Robinson
Mark Osmond BDS (Lond) LDS RCS (Eng). Mark Osmond Dental Clinic - (649) 432 3777, drmosmond@gmail.com or Find us on Facebook
By Dr Mark Osmond
Recurrent mouth ulcers
Balloons blow, don’t let them go! WITH the holiday time almost upon us it is worth thinking about the amount of useless stuff that is bought, used, then thrown away, adding to the mountains of cheap plastic disposable junk littering this beautiful planet. Balloons are one of the many things to reconsider buying and not just the latex blow up balloon but also the paper lanterns that have become popular over the last few years. Latex and foil balloons cause a huge problem for the environment, especially when released in large numbers as part of special events. Thankfully many people are now are of the problems they pose but unfortunately there are still instances of balloons being released, even just recently at the Berlin Wall 25th anniversary celebrations. These balloons can travel many miles before falling back down to the ground and in the ocean, sometimes in once pristine areas where wildlife then succumb to the devastating effects they cause. Birds and animals and marine life can quite easily suffocate if they try to eat the balloons and they can also become entangled in the attached string. Paper sky lanterns are often assumed to be ‘eco-friendly’ but these also cause big problems worldwide and have caused serious burns to people and killed animals that have tried eating the fallen remains or have become entangled in the wire frames. They have also been known to start fires in areas many miles from where they were released. The FAA have also raised concerns about the possibility of them being
THE DENTIST AND YOU
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sucked into aircraft engines. Don’t even be fooled by those balloons that claim to be biodegradable as they still take many years to break down, posing as much as a threat as ‘regular’ balloons. Thankfully balloon releases and paper sky lanterns are now illegal in many states, cities and countries and hopefully one day they will be banned around the whole world. More information can be found on the website www.balloonsblow.org and on the Facebook page Balloons Blow. Please take care this holiday time and choose wisely when planning for parties and events. “Be the change you wish to see in the world” – Ghandi.
RECURRENT mouth ulcers (recurrent aphthous stomatitis) are painful, round lesions that develop on the linings of the cheeks and lips, the tongue or the base of the gums. The tendency to develop these ulcers is inherited. There can be one or many ulcers at the same time, and they can be recurrent. Multiple ulcers are scattered across the lining of the mouth, not clustered. Approximately 17 percent of the US population has recurrent aphthous stomatitis, which is classified into three categories: Minor ulcers are less than 1cm in diameter and do not leave scars. The sores usually heal within two weeks. Major ulcers (also called Sutton’s disease) are 1cm or more in diameter, take longer than minor ulcers to heal and may leave scars. Herpetiform ulcers are clusters of dozens of smaller ulcers. This form is rare. Minor ulcers are the most common and, although painful, are self-limiting and more of an annoyance. Several (two to six ulcers) can occur per episode and several episodes can occur each year. Major ulcers are large, painful, frequent sores that can reach 2cm to 4cm in diameter. The ulcers can interfere with speech and eating and can last for weeks to months, causing significant pain and disability. When they do heal, they may
leave scars that can make it more difficult to move the tongue and can destroy oral tissue. SYMPTOMS You may feel a burning or tingling sensation in an area of inflammation before an ulcer appears. An ulcer takes two to three days to form completely. The sores are round, shallow, symmetrical and painful. They usually are found on the inner part of the lips and cheeks and the tongue. Ulcers also can be associated with other diseases, particularly connective tissue diseases such as lupus or Behçet’s syndrome, which cause symptoms on the eyes and genitals as well as the mouth. DIAGNOSIS Minor ulcers are diagnosed mostly by process of elimination. Other than maintaining general good health there is no way to prevent them. If the ulcers become more frequent or severe, are accompanied by other symptoms (such as rashes, joint pain, fevers or diarrhoea) or are larger than about half an inch in diameter, you should visit your dentist or physician. He or she will try to rule out blood diseases, connective tissue diseases, drug reactions and skin disorders. Occasionally a biopsy and blood tests may be required to rule out other conditions or diseases. The cause of ulcers is not known, but most theories involve
an immune abnormality. Certain blood diseases, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, allergies, trauma and Crohn’s disease cause similar ulcers. Ulcers are often confused with cold sores, which are caused by a herpes virus. This is not the same. TREATMENT Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. Rinsing with a warm, salt-water solution and eating bland foods can minimise discomfort. Anaesthetic medications or over-the-counter agents that are placed directly on the sores to coat them also may help. People with more severe disease may need steroid medications placed on the lesions. These medications significantly shorten the healing time of the ulcers and prevent them from becoming larger. Other possible treatments include placing a medication called chlortetracycline (Aureomycin) on the sores or injecting steroids into the sores. In very severe, disabling cases, your dentist may prescribe oral medication. WHEN TO CALL A PROFESSIONAL Ulcers are usually painful but are self-limiting and not a significant risk to your health. However, if you have severe, recurring or if they are becoming worse, consult your dentist or physician.
Weekly Recipe
Pumpkin pie INGREDIENTS • 3/4 cup granulated sugar • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves • 2 large eggs • 15oz cooked and cooled pumpkin • 1 can (12 fl. oz.) evaporated milk • 1 unbaked 9-inch (4-cup volume) deep-dish pie shell • Whipped cream (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS • Mix sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger and cloves in small bowl. Beat eggs in large bowl. Stir in pumpkin and sugarspice mixture. Gradually stir in evaporated milk. • Pour into pie shell. • Bake in preheated 425° F oven for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 350° F; bake for 40 to 50 minutes or until knife inserted near center comes out clean.
• Cool on wire rack for two hours. Serve immediately or refrigerate.
Top with whipped cream before serving.
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Regional News
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Two policemen injured in Haiti election protests AT least two policemen have been injured after clashes erupted between opposition supporters and police forces during a protest against presidential election results in Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince. One of the policemen was wounded after a protester opened fire, while the other was injured by demonstrators throwing rocks during the gathering on Tuesday. The violence came as supporters of different opposition groups gathered to protest the results of the first round of the country’s presidential elections, which were released on Monday by the Haitian Provisional Electoral Council. On November 24, the electoral commission said that Jovenel Moise, who is backed by the ruling party, and opposition candidate, Jude Celestin, had come out as the two top winners of the first round of the presidential election held on October 25. The commission added that Moise had won 32.8 percent of the votes, while Celestin gained 25.3 percent. The final announcement was
Barricades are placed by demonstrators on the street during a protest in Port-au-Prince, on November 24, 2015. (AFP photo)
made after Haitian officials counted the ballots and resolved challenges. The runoff is expected to be held on December 27. Moise, 47, is backed by outgoing President Michel Martelly, who took office in 2011, one year after a deadly earthquake which killed some 250,000 people and left the country’s infrastructure crippled.
The Americas’ poorest country is still struggling to cope with the catastrophe. According to the rights group Amnesty International (AI), more than 85,000 people who became homeless as a result of the earthquake are still living in makeshift camps. Haiti also held legislative elections in two rounds in August and October. (Presstv.IR)
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
New unit to help Caribbean tackle organised crime and corruption THE Regional Security System (RSS) and the UK have joined forces to set up an Asset Recovery Unit to tackle organised crime and corruption. The Asset Recovery Unit will be based at the RSS headquarters in Barbados, and will help Caribbean countries confiscate criminals’ assets, reducing their influence and power. The Unit is being funded by the UK’s development agency, the Department for International Development (DFID). DFID has committed £2.4 million (US$3.6 million) as part of its £17 million (US$25.6 million) anti-corruption programme for the region. Executive director of the RSS Grantley Watson said the region is negatively impacted by violence arising from drug trafficking and the asset recovery unit will help countries confiscate criminals’ assets, reducing their influence and power. The unit, which opens
on December 1, will take over from the DFID-funded Caribbean criminal assets recovery programme (CCARP), based within the British High Commission. CCARP was engaged in raising the capacity and capability of practitioners including financial investigators, prosecutors, magistrates and judges, by providing them with the knowledge and skills to recover the assets from those engaged in serious crimes. The Asset Recovery Unit will continue CCARP’s work of promoting and strengthening legislation throughout the region to tackle the proceeds of crime. It will lobby for the establishment of a dedicated forfeiture fund to provide additional resources for law enforcement agencies, for the criminal justice system, for victim compensation and for community projects keeping youngsters off the streets. (Caribbean360)
Moss wants party to contest every seat in 2017 UNITED Democratic Party Leader Greg Moss has insisted that his newly formed party is set to break the political status quo in the Bahamas, changing the climate from “theatrics” to presenting concrete proposals with a view to enhancing the lives of Bahamians. Speaking to The Tribune yesterday, Mr Moss said the UDP sees corruption as the core of the majority of this country’s problems and was formed with a view to eliminate this issue. Mr Moss also said his party plans to contest every seat in the 2017 general election. While speaking in the House of Assembly on Monday the Marco City MP revealed that he had been elected leader of the UDP on November 22. A press release issued later said C Allen Johnson was selected as the party’s chairman. When asked about concerns that Mr Johnson may bring the new party into disrepute, Mr Moss said he had no worries about this. Some observers on social media questioned whether Mr Moss held the same convictions concerning women as his chairman who was involved in a bitter spat on Facebook with a woman in 2013. Mr Moss said: “No I have no concerns about that. I hold his character to be in high esteem. I think he is one of the brightest minds so I don’t have any concerns.”
Marco City MP Greg Moss said that the new party, the United Democratic Party, was formed in Grand Bahama on Sunday last.
On his new party, Mr Moss said: “The most substantial difference between the UDP, the Progressive Liberal Party and the Free National Movement is this is a party that doesn’t believe in theatrics. It doesn’t believe in ‘politicking’ while the country is sliding into an abysmal decline. “We believe in principle and not personalities and issues and not arguing. Not pointing fingers at other people and not just hot air and with a lot of empty words.” He added: “The most significant problem is corruption. The other problems are being fed because of the corruption. Whether you are talking about crime, loss of jobs, failure to provide scholarships, whatever it is
all of it has the same central nexus, which is corruption.” Mr Moss said he, subject to the approval of House Speaker Dr Kendal Major, will on December 9 table a mortgage foreclosure bill, legislation aimed to change the way banks are able to sell homes. His proposal will include a $100m fund to help people reacquire their homes and will also assist those who aren’t equipped to do so because they don’t have suitable jobs to sustain a residential mortgage. The outspoken MP quit the PLP in June. The announcement came as a surprise in the House of Assembly at the time, with Mr Moss informing Dr Major that he would have to assign him a new House seat for the next sitting. The backbencher has spent much of his three years in office criticising the government over such issues as value added tax (VAT), crime and its proposed constitutional amendments to address gender equality. He has said his conscience prompted him to leave the PLP because the party no longer abides by the founding principles that prompted its rise to power. He has criticised the Christie administration for its performance in relation to such issues as crime, failed mortgage relief, Urban Renewal and the stalled development of Grand Bahama. (Tribune242)
The trailers are outfitted with living quarters, bathroom, kitchen, television, and air conditioning units.
Tax breaks, trailer homes for Bahamians displaced by Hurricane Joaquin THE Bahamian government is providing trailer homes as temporary shelter for some of its residents who were displaced after Hurricane Joaquin ripped through the Central and Southeast Bahamas last month. And it’s also offering tax exemptions on goods for recovery and rebuilding. The first batch of the temporary housing has been assigned to Crooked Island and Acklins Island, which were severely affected by the Category 4 hurricane. The trailers are outfitted with living quarters, bathroom, kitchen, television, and air conditioning units. First assistant secretary of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Chrystal Glinton said the residents would be housed in the trailer homes until their own homes could be repaired or replaced during the reconstruction phase. Efforts to provide relief and aid
to residents of the storm-hit islands also included the Minister of Finance and Planning’s declaration of an Exigency Order that allows for tax exemptions on goods imported for recovery and rebuilding for those living in Acklins Island, Cat Island, Crooked Island, Exuma, Inagua, Long Cay, Long Island, Mayaguana, Rum Cay, Ragged Island, Samana Cay, San Salvador, “who suffered hardship or loss as a result of Hurricane Joaquin”. The finance minister has also waived Landing Fees, Departure Tax for non-commercial flights bringing in relief goods, and Customs Processing fees on imports in those islands. The list of approved duty-free goods are: building materials; plumbing fixtures and materials; household furniture, furnishing and appliances; generators; and motor vehicles. (Caribbean360)
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
Regional News
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
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Cayman Premier, human rights body clash on same-sex unions THE government cannot consider any request to recognise same sex unions, Premier Alden McLaughlin said in a letter to the Human Rights Commission that was made public on Monday. The letter, dated Oct. 21, 2015, was the premier’s response to one sent by Cayman Islands Human Rights Commission Chairman James Austin-Smith’s on Aug. 19, 2015, which was prompted by a Legislative Assembly debate
on a private members’ motion on “the preservation of traditional marriages” on Aug. 13. Mr. AustinSmith requested that the premier respond to the debate, and invited him to denounce “in the strongest terms” statements that targeted homosexuals, subjected them to ridicule or even potential abuse in the community. Mr. Austin-Smith also recommended that the government immediately introduce legislation
Jamaican Sanjay Ashani Williams will spend two decades behind bars.
Jamaican jailed in US for 20 years for lottery scam FOR helping fellow Jamaicans swindle scores of middle-aged and elderly people in the United States out of more than US$5 million in a lottery scam, Sanjay Ashani Williams will spend 20 years behind bars. The judge who slapped him with the punishment yesterday – six months after he was found guilty by a jury of one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud or mail fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit international money laundering and 45 counts of wire fraud –, was also critical of what he said was Williams’ home country’s lax prosecution of scammers and the light sentences given to them. “In this county, unlike Jamaica, Mr. Williams, we treat these as serious offences,” US District Court Judge Daniel Hovland said as he handed down the sentence. Williams, 26, had sold “lead lists” – lists with the names, telephone numbers and personal information of potential victims – to Jamaican lottery fraud
scammers. His co-conspirators then contacted victims by telephone or mail and told them they had won a large sweepstakes prize, such as $3.5 million and a new Mercedes Benz car. To claim the prize, the victims were told they had to send money – sometimes thousands of dollars – to pay taxes, fees, insurance and the like. After the funds were paid, the victims were required to send more and more money, but never received the promised prize. This was the first case of its kind where a lead list developer was tried in the US. FBI agent Frank Gasper told the court that authorities had identified more than 80 of the victims of Williams and another man, Lavrick Willocks, who has been charged but not yet extradited to the US. Two of the victims testified during the two-hour sentencing hearing, and they told the court about the financial and emotional suffering they endured as a result of falling victim to the scam.
to recognize same-sex unions and outlaw discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. The premier’s letter contained no mention of specific remarks made during the debate over the marriage motion, which was made by Bodden Town MLA Anthony Eden and seconded by Bodden Town MLA Alva Suckoo. “This is an issue which has evoked great passion on both sides of the debate … there should be no surprise that the matter locally has had the debate that it has,” Mr. McLaughlin wrote. “The issue is not made any easier given that the government, even if it was minded to, currently has no mandate to alter the status quo was we have come to know it in the Cayman Islands.” Mr. McLaughlin wrote that the government would consider the possibility of adjusting immigration policy to allow homosexual partners to live together in the Cayman Islands “even though they may not be able immediately to enjoy the menu of other rights enjoyed in jurisdictions that have legislatively recognized such relationships.” The premier wrote that he was advised that such an approach – adjusting the immigration policy without recognizing same-sex unions – “would be consistent” with a “gradual maturation” approach
alluded to by the European Court of Human Rights in a case brought against Italy to determine whether it violated human rights law by failing to recognize same-sex unions. Responding to the premier’s letter on Nov. 16, Mr. Austin-Smith took issue with the statements made in the premier’s letter suggesting the European Court of Human Rights had agreed with the “gradual maturation” approach, or that the approach could even be argued here in the Cayman Islands as it was in Italy because the Italian government has already implemented a number of legal protections for same-sex couples. The “gradual maturation” approach, Mr. Austin-Smith said, is actually an argument that the European Court of Human Rights “specifically disapproved” when it ruled against the Italian government. “I have no doubt, particularly in light of the total absence even of any of the rights [currently afforded same sex-couples in Italy], that the Court would also rule against the Cayman Government if a case were brought today,” Mr. Austin-Smith wrote. “Can I invite you to reconsider the advice that you have been given? There should be no doubt about it we are in breach of the law.” In his letter, Mr. Austin-Smith also disagreed with the premier’s suggestion that the government “has
no mandate” to change the law as it relates to same-sex marriage, noting that the government had full power to pass laws for “the peace, order and good government of the islands,” including when complying with obligations under international law. “The government does not have to seek a referendum every time it wishes to pass a law and this issue is, respectfully, no different from any other, save that the need for legislation is so clear and immediate.” Mr. Austin-Smith said there could be “no ‘gradual maturation’ where people are abused and threatened with violence, even from within the government, when they ask for basic rights.” He wrote that the premier had failed to denounce statements made in the Legislative Assembly that, “amongst other things,” likened lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals to “pedophiles and those who practice bestiality,” and described them as “deviants,” “wicked,” “immoral” and “evil.” “Whatever our differences of opinion on the government’s legal obligations, I hope you can agree with me that this was deeply unpleasant abuse, likely to incite hatred and is worthy of condemnation in the strongest possible terms,” Mr. Austin-Smith wrote to the premier. “I encourage you at the very least to say so publicly.” (Cayman Compass)
Venezuela military pilots flew drugs to Haiti for trafficking into US, reports say THE latest developments in the drug trafficking case involving relatives of Venezuela’s first lady Cilia Flores indicate that the Venezuelan military is involved in transporting cocaine to Haiti for transhipment into the US. According to the District Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, a Cessna Citation 500 aircraft carrying more than 800 kg (1,700 lbs) of cocaine took off from a terminal reserved for government officials at Simon Bolivar International Airport in Caracas on November 8. Francisco Flores, 29, and Efraín Campos, 30, the nephews of first lady Cilia Flores, and both allegedly carrying Venezuelan diplomatic passports, were among four passengers and two pilots on the Haiti-bound Citation 500. According to the flight log, the plane was co-piloted by Pablo Urbano Perez, a military official, and Pedro Miguel Rodriguez, a lieutenant-colonel in the Venezuelan
Air Force. Flores and Campos were arrested on arrival in Haiti on charges of conspiring to smuggle cocaine into the United States. They are being held without bail in New York after a federal grand jury handed up an indictment. They have both pleaded not guilty. The flight log shows the other two passengers were Marco Uzcategui and Jesfran Moreno, who along with the co-pilots are believed to be back in Caracas. US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents searched the jet and allowed it to return to Venezuela since US authorities did not have time to produce official charges against the four, despite their apparent involvement in the scheme, according to ABC News. The aircraft in question is registered in Venezuela to Sabenpe, a waste-management company that has received a myriad government
contracts in the past, according to the National Registry of Contractors. Sabenpe appears registered, but is listed as “inactive.” ABC News reports that the informer who led to the arrest of Flores’ nephews claimed that the two regularly flew drugs out of Terminal 4 of Simon Bolivar airport. He also disclosed that they had funnelled illicit funds into Maduro’s 2013 presidential campaign. According to El Nuevo Herald, allegations of official involvement in drug trafficking have dogged Maduro’s presidency. Among those being investigated are the first lady’s son and Caracas judge Walter Jacobo Gavidia; Venezuela’s number two, National Assembly President Diosdado Cabello, and Aragua State Governor Tarek El Aissami. Drug trafficking measures have turned increasingly lax in Venezuela in the last decade and a half, according to analysts consulted recently by Fox News Latino.
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TCI photography studio wins top award WEDDINGWIRE, the world’s leading online wedding marketplace, recently named Paradise Photography as a winner of the prestigious WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards 2015 for wedding photography. The awards recognise the top five percent of wedding professionals from the WeddingWire Network throughout the United States, Canada and abroad that demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness and professionalism. The esteemed awards are given to the top local wedding vendors in more than 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, based on their professional achievements from the previous year. Timothy Chi, CEO of WeddingWire, said: “It’s always exciting to start the year by honouring the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire network who represent more than two million reviews on our website. “Each of the businesses recognized are committed to quality, professionalism and all around topnotch service. “We applaud Paradise Photography for their impressive
achievements within the wedding industry.” The WeddingWire network, which includes leading wedding sites such as WeddingWire, Project Wedding, Brides.com, Martha Stewart Weddings, and Weddingbee, is the industry leader in weddingrelated consumer reviews, with more than two million consumer reviews. While many industry award winners are selected by the host organisation, the WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards winners are determined solely based on reviews from real newlyweds. Christine Morden, owner of Paradise Photography, said: “Paradise Photography is proud to be one of the top photography studios worldwide to have received this prestigious designation. “We are excited that the Turks and Caicos gains international recognition by having a business of this calibre win an award based on service and quality.” Awards are determined by a combination of excellence in four factors: overall rating (quality), total number of reviews (quantity), review performance from 2014 (recency), and consistency of reviews from year to year (consistency).
Paradise Photography team
Paradise Photography is known for its fine art style of image making and for its cutting edge photography products which include the latest gallery style pieces. According to Morden: “Many of our wedding clients enlarge their favourite photos from the wedding and hang them in their homes. “It’s like having a postcard of the
beach with them standing in it. “Wedding photos from the Turks and Caicos are great advertisements for this destination. “Couples frequently return to the Turks and Caicos after their wedding and do anniversary photos. They then bring their first baby and do family photos. “We’ve documented many
returning families every year or two when they come back for a visit.” Paradise Photography is a member of the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA), the Chamber of Commerce, and partners with the Tourist Board to help promote the Turks and Caicos through high impact and striking photography.
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Local makeup artist takes makeup to a different level BY DAISY HANDFIELD ONE of the youngest and most talked about makeup artists in the Turks and Caicos Islands has recently returned from Jamaica where she was completing a number of courses to further educate herself about the makeup industry. Jenny Beaute, 22, who was born in Grand Turk migrated to Providenciales a number of years ago where she graduated the Clement Howell High in 2011 and then went on to gaining dominance in the field of makeup. In an interview with Beaute on Thursday, November 12, she said that what really inspired her to pursue makeup was the praise that she received from family, friends and acquaintances when she displayed her work on social media pages, Instagram and Facebook. She said that people also asked her to do their makeup professionally for events. Another motive was the fact that as a youngster she always had a hidden love for makeup, but wanted to become certified in the field so that when clients heard about her, they would rest assured
that she had qualifications. She said: “I am so young and knowing that there are others in the Turks and Caicos Islands doing makeup who are older in age and experience encouraged me to pursue qualifications in the beauty industry so that people could feel confident in my craft and would not hesitate to book appointments with me.” What makes Beaute different is the fact that she is not only experienced in the ‘beauty’ of makeup but is versatile, being able to portray scary characters or even making a woman appear as though she was a man. “I consider myself to be different because I do not only focus on making people look beautiful, I am more advanced with makeup and can turn people into characters if they request. “This is something that I do not think just any makeup artist can do.” When the Weekly News asked the makeup artist where she saw herself five years from now, she said that she pictured herself working in some kind of Law and Order series where she would bring to life gruesome images that
Makeup artist Jenny Beaute transforms herself into a man
looked like real injuries on the television. Beaute travelled to Jamaica in March of 2015 and attended the D’Marie School of Makeup artistry where she received certificates certifying her in professional makeup. She said that the course covered working in beauty related industries, health and safety practices in salons, client care and communication in the beauty related industries, applying makeup and eyelash and eyebrow treatments. Beaute said that after she received the certificates she felt motivated to come back to the TCI and show clients and residents what she had to offer. She also wanted to prove that there is a lot of talent that goes unnoticed in the TCI. To view more of Beaute’s work people can visit her Facebook page www.facebook.com/ eyecandygames.
Adele’s ‘25’ became 2015’s bestselling album in just three days IT sounds almost too incredible to be true…but then again, this is Adele, so anything is possible. The British superstar’s new album, 25, has become the best-selling release of 2015, and it managed to do so in just three days. According to Nielsen, the album sold at least 2.3 million copies by Monday morning, which puts it well ahead of any other album’s numbers this year. If by-the-hour sales figures were public, it would be possible to figure out if it actually took less than three days for Adele
By Monday morning Adele 25 has already sold 2.3 million copies.
to end up on top, but we may never know. Before 25 arrived, Taylor Swift’s 1989 was 2015’s bestselling album, a title it earned last year. Back when the music industry still wasn’t sure if Adele
was even going to release an album, it looked like 1989 might have been the rare record that was popular and powerful enough to be named the best-selling album two years in a row, but now that is no longer a possibility.
The makeup artist portrays herself to be an injured woman
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Britain drops controversial plan to cut tax credits for the working poor THE UK is set to cut spending on social care, renewable energy and local government, finance minister George Osborne has announced. In a surprising move, the government gave up on cutting tax credits that help the poor. The conservative government has decided to drop the cuts to the tax credit system due to higher tax receipts and lower interest rates, Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne told the British parliament on Wednesday. The government-proposed cuts had sparked heavy criticism, as tax credits supplement the income of parents and low-income workers. “I’ve listened to the concerns. I hear and understand them,” Osborne said while explaining his budget plan. “And because I’ve been able to announce today an improvement in the public finances, the simplest thing to do is not to phase these changes in, but to avoid them altogether.” The proposed reform, aiming to save 4.4 billion pounds ($6.65 billion), was blocked earlier this month in the upper house of British parliament, the House of Lords. This caused some consternation, however, as the Lords typically refrain from vetoing financial laws, leaving spending policy to elected parliamentarians.
After the bill was thrown back, many expected that Osborne would simply water down the reform instead of abandoning it all together. Security forces safe from cuts Osborne also announced there would be no cuts to the UK police force, citing recent Paris attacks during the six-monthly budget update. “Now is not the time for further police cuts. Now is the time to back our police and give them the tools,” he said. Defense spending, health care and schools are also to be safe from the cuts. Despite the changes in the budget plan, the finance minister vowed to stick to his earlier pledge of saving 12 billion pounds in welfare during the next five years. ‘Tampon tax’ will go to charity The chancellor also used his speech to address the controversial ‘tampon tax’ that is, taxing tampons with VAT (sometimes called sales tax) for what are considered luxury items. Some 300,000 people in Britain signed a petition against the tax, arguing that the products are hygiene necessities, not luxuries. The government had already said that it was charging the lowest tax rate allowed by European law, 5 percent, on womens’ sanitary
products. Osborne said in his speech that there was nothing he could do about the tax at this time, but insisted the revenue from the tax would be diverted to womens’ charities. “The first £5 million will be distributed between the Eve Appeal, Safe Lives and Women’s Aid and The Haven - and I invite bids from other such good causes,” Osborne told the House of Commons. The first two are organizations for cancer patients and the latter two focus on domestic violence. At the same time, Osborne said that the government would build 400,000 “affordable” homes in the “biggest house-building by any government since 1970s.” “Our job is to rebuild Britain ... so that Britain becomes the most prosperous and secure of all the nations in the world,” said Osborne, who is widely seen as a potential successor to the current prime minister David Cameron - along with London Mayor Boris Johnson and Interior Minister Theresa May. The authorities intend to build some of the homes on the land left over after closing of prisons, such as Holloway women’s prison in north London. The British capital is one of the most expensive cities in the world when it comes to property prices.
Conservative Macri wins Argentina presidency CONSERVATIVE Mauricio Macri has been confirmed as the winner in Argentina’s presidential elections after his ruling party opponent conceded. With almost all votes counted, Mr Macri led Daniel Scioli by 51.5% to 48.5%. He danced on stage at a victory rally at his Buenos Aires headquarters and thanked his staff for their support. Mr Macri’s victory is the first in more than a decade for Argentina’s centre-right opposition and ends the 12-year rule of the Peronist Party. “Today is a historic day,” said Mr Macri, addressing thousands of cheering supporters. “It’s the changing of an era.” Sunday’s victory completes a turnaround for Mr Macri, who is currently mayor of Buenos Aires, after he lost in the first round of voting to Mr Scioli. But Mr Scioli, who is the governor of Buenos Aires province, did not command enough of a lead to win the vote outright, forcing a run-off the first in the country’s history. The son of one of Argentina’s richest men, Mr Macri had a long career in business before entering
Mr Mauricio Macri’s victory is the first in more than a decade for Argentina’s centre-right opposition and ends the 12-year rule of the Peronist Party.
politics. In 1991, he was kidnapped and kept captive for 12 days by a gang of corrupt policemen demanding millions in ransom. Four years later, he became president of Boca Juniors Football Club and used his success at the club as a springboard for his political career.
Mr Scioli, a close ally of outgoing President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, had been expected to win by a greater margin in October. He tried to regain momentum before Sunday’s runoff by attacking Mr Macri’s market-driven economic policies as a throwback, but failed to regain a lead in the polls. (BBC)
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that the downing of its warplane looks like a planned provocation.
Russia not going to war with Turkey RUSSIAN Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Wednesday that Turkey’s downing of a Russian warplane “looks like a planned provocation,” but that Russia is not going to war with Turkey. Lavrov said the incident will make Russia reconsider its relationship with Turkey. He cancelled a planned trip to Turkey on Wednesday, but spoke with Turkey’s foreign minister and the two agreed to meet in the coming days. Separately, Russia’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement Wednesday that Lavrov told Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavusoglu in a phone call that in shooting down the Russian jet, Turkey’s leadership “has, in essence, sided with” the Islamic State group. Meanwhile, one of the pilots who parachuted from the Su-24 arrived Wednesday at a Russian base in Latakia after being rescued by members of the Syrian army. Speaking to reporters there, he denied that the jet had entered Turkey’s airspace “even for a single second” and insisted that the Turkish authorities had issued “no warnings whatsoever” to the plane before it was shot down. At an event Wednesday in Istanbul, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the plane crashed in Syria but was still inside Turkey’s airspace when it was hit Tuesday Other Turkish officials said that the plane was as deep as 2 kilometers over the border for about 17 seconds, and that its forces issued 10 warnings that were ignored before they fired. Russia insists the plane never left Syrian territory. Reuters quoted an unnamed U.S. official as saying Washington believes the Russian plane returned to Syrian airspace before being hit, while diplomats speaking to The New York Times said the plane crossed back into Syria after being hit. Erdogan said his country was
simply defending its security when Turkish fighter planes shot down a Russian jet, and that he does not want any escalation with Russia. Likewise, Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu told lawmakers Turkey has no intention of straining ties with its “friend and neighbor” Russia. Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said Wednesday “dangerous escalation” in relations between Russia and NATO cannot be excused, even in the case of border protection. President Vladimir Putin called the incident a “stab in the back” and accused Turkey of supporting terrorists. Russia has announced several responses. Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Wednesday the military will send its advanced S-400 missile system to Syria’s Latakia province, which borders Turkey. It is also deploying the guided-missile cruiser Moskva to the area. Meanwhile, one of the pilots who parachuted from the plane arrived Wednesday at a Russian base in Latakia after being rescued by members of the Syrian army. Alexander Orlov, Russia’s ambassador to France, said the second pilot in the plane was “killed in a savage way.” A rescue helicopter sent to the crash site was shot down by rebels, killing one person on board. Erdogan and U.S. President Barack Obama spoke by phone Tuesday and agreed on the need to de-escalate tensions and prevent further incidents. The White House said in a statement the leaders voiced their commitment to developing a transitional political process for peace in Syria, and international support for defeating Islamic State extremists. The statement also reiterated U.S. support for Turkey’s right to defend its airspace. (VOA)
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Chicago Police was reluctant to release incriminating cop killer video
Twelve persons, including the suspected suicide bomber also died in the blast.
ISIS claims bomb attack on Tunisian presidential guard that killed 12 ISIS has claimed responsibility for bombing a bus carrying members of Tunisia’s presidential guard, the latest deadly attack to roil a country once hailed as one of the few success stories of the Arab Spring. Twelve people were killed in Tuesday’s (November 24) explosion in Tunis, according to the Interior Ministry. A suspected suicide bomber also died. An official in the Prime Minister’s office had previously told CNN that 15 people were killed. The blast hit when the vehicle was parked near a main artery in the capital where guard members are typically picked up and dropped off, according to the official. Authorities are investigating the event as a terrorist attack. ISIS, the Islamist extremist group that has taken over vast swaths of Syria and Iraq, claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement released Wednesday (November 25). The statement said a suicide
bomber blew up his explosive vest on the bus. It contained a photo of the alleged suicide bomber, along with the message: “Tyrants of Tunis must know that they will not be safe, God willing, and we won’t stop until the law of God rules Tunis.” The Tunisian government has not commented on the ISIS statement. CNN cannot authenticate the ISIS claim. International condemnation A spokesman for U.N. SecretaryGeneral Ban Ki-moon said in a statement that he sent condolences to Tunisia and the victims’ families. “The Secretary-General reiterates that the United Nations will continue to stand with the people of Tunisia as they confront the scourge of terrorism and continue to consolidate and strengthen their democracy,” the statement said. The United States condemned the attack, saying it was prepared to assist Tunisian authorities in their investigation.
WHEN Chicago city officials released the dashcam video of police officer Jason Van Dyke shooting 17-year-old Laquan McDonald on Tuesday, it marked the culmination of a months-long effort by journalists and other advocates to get the video released. Officials had said that releasing the video would jeopardise an ongoing investigation into the incident and a fair trial for the officer. But after a judge last week determined those explanations to be bunk, the city was forced to release the video, which it did on Tuesday. Here’s how that process unfolded: Oct. 20, 2014 Laquan McDonald is shot and killed by Chicago police officer Jason Van Dyke. Police say after the incident that McDonald was behaving strangely and had lunged at officers with a knife when they opened fire. Initial reports don’t mention how many times McDonald was shot. TheIndependent Police Review Authority Board begins to investigate. Nov. 4, 2014 Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez obtains the video and begins investigating the incident. Alvarez would later defend not releasing the video after having possession of it for so long, saying that she was conducting a “meticulous” investigation. Dec. 8, 2014 Journalist Jamie Kalven and Craig Futterman, a University of Chicago Law School professor, release a statement calling on Chicago police to release the dashcam video of the incident. Futterman and Kalven had been alerted to the video’s existence by a whistleblower, who told them the video was horrific.
February 2015 Kalven obtains a copy of McDonald’s final autopsy report, which says that McDonald was shot 16 times. March 2015 The Chicago Tribune files three separate Freedom of Information Act requests to Chicago’s law department, the police department and the Independent Police Review Authority Board. All three requests are denied. April 2015 The Chicago City Council approves a $5 million settlement with McDonald’s family before theyeven file a lawsuit. Aldermen are not shown the video of the incident before approving the settlement, even though city Corporation Counsel Stephen Patton said the footage influenced the city’s decision to settle before a lawsuit. Officials also confirm that the FBI and the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois are conducting a criminal probe into Van Dyke. Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel (D) says that the police and FBI are withholding the video while they conduct an investigation, and city officials say releasing it would jeopardise a fair trial. May 2015 A Burger King district manager tells NBC Chicago that he believes police deleted security footage from the restaurant that captured moments surrounding the incident, whichMcDonald’s family attorney claims would have given some context for the shooting. In a statement at the time, the Independent Police Review Authority Board says it has no credible evidence to believe that police officers deleted footage. On May 26, freelance journalist
Brandon Smith files a Freedom of Information Act request with the Chicago Police Department requesting the video, and the department asks him for an extension on his request until late July. August 2015 After Smith’s Freedom of Information Act request is denied, he files a lawsuit against the Chicago Police Department to force them to release the video, claiming that the department is simply refusing to do so for public relations reasons. In a piece explaining why he’s suing the city, Smith says that CPD told him they had denied at least 15 Freedom of Information Act requests for the footage. Nov. 18, 2015 The office of Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan (D) sends a letter to police saying that they cannot withhold the video, and saying that claims that releasing it would interfere with an ongoing investigation or jeopardize a fair trial are “unsubstantiated.” Nov. 19, 2015 Cook County Judge Franklin Valderrama orders the city to release the video by Nov. 25 and denies the city’s request for a stay. Chicago legal officials say that they won’t appeal the decision. Nov. 24, 2015 City officials release footage of McDonald’s death, which shows him walking away from police when he is shot, contradicting initial police reports of the incident. Emanuel and Chicago Police Commissioner Garry McCarthy hold a press conference to discuss McDonald’s death, but Smith, the reporter who sued the police department, isn’t allowed to enter. (Huffington Post)
$21M Hatton Garden jewel heist biggest ‘in English legal history,’ lawyer says FOUR men went on trial in London Monday for the audacious heist of £14 million ($21.2 million) worth of gems, jewellery and cash from a safe deposit company in the city’s diamond district, described by a prosecutor as “the largest burglary in English legal history.” Thieves struck the Hatton Garden Safe Deposit Ltd. over the four-day Easter holiday in April, gaining access through an elevator shaft before using a drill to bore through a 6-foot-thick wall and enter the basement vault, investigators said at the time. Three of the accused -- William Lincoln, 60; John Harbinson, 42; and Carl Wood, 60 -- are charged with conspiracy to burgle. Along with Hugh Doyle,
48, they are also charged with conspiracy to conceal, convert or transfer criminal property, while Doyle faces an additional charge of actually concealing, converting or transferring criminal property. The men deny all the charges. On the opening day of the trial at Woolwich Crown Court, prosecutor Philip Evans told the jury that four other men -- John Collins, 74; Daniel Jones, 58; Terrence Perkins, 67; and Brian Reader, 76 -- had already pleaded guilty to conspiracy to burgle in relation to the case. The guilty pleas of those men, whom he described as “ringleaders and organizers” of the crime, was “evidence that there was in fact a conspiracy to burgle,” he said.
The prosecution would attempt to persuade the jury of six men and six women that Lincoln, Harbinson and Wood were also party to the conspiracy, he said. “These four ringleaders and organizers, although senior in years, brought with them a great deal of experience in planning and executing sophisticated and serious acquisitive crime not dissimilar to this,” he said. “Two of these men had also been involved in some of the biggest acquisitive crimes of the last century, and the other two had for many years in their earlier lives been involved in serious theft.” Their level of experience, and the magnitude of the crime, meant that they would only have involved
Thieves reportedly struck the Hatton Garden Safe Deposit Ltd. over the four-day Easter holiday in April, gaining access through an elevator shaft before using a drill to bore through a 6-foot-thick wall and enter the basement vault.
others “who could be fully trusted,” he said. Evans told the court that the burglary had been planned for almost three years, with the group meeting regularly before and after the crime in a pub in the London borough of
Islington. As far back as August 2012, one of the men involved in the crime had searched on the Internet for drills, and by May 2014 the searches had progressed to YouTube tutorials on how to use a specific drill.
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JOB LISTINGS SERVICES AUTO SALES REAL ESTATE
Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
946-4664 Fax: 946-4661
Email: tcnews@tciway.tc
Website: tcweeklynews.com
FLOWER GIRL
WANTED URGENTLY
FLORAL DESIGNER
Must have thorough knowledge in the floral business with 3-5 years experience.
Call: 231-3788
FOR SALE
Construction scaffold and roof tiles for sale CONTACT: 431-1591 OR 231-3788
ARNOLD SIMMONS
BEEN CONSTRUCTION
Is looking for a
Is looking for a
Requires a
CARPENTER/ SOFTBALL COACH
is looking for a
CONTACT: 244-6900 11613
TROPICANA UPHOLSTERY
CONTACT: 243-4166 W & T BARBER SHOP
Is looking for a
LABOURER To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.
CONTACT: 244-7033
BARBER To work 6 days
per week salary $6.25 per hour
CONTACT: 344-0038
11640
Is looking for a
PLEASE CONTACT 231 6920 W & T BEAUTY SALON Is looking for a
11616
to work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.
Is looking for a
LABOURER LABOURER
Must be willing to work weekends and public holidays. $5.00 per hour.
To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour
11645
STORE KEEPER
CAR WASHER
STANFORD FORBES
To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.
To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour
CONTACT: 245-4898
CONTACT: 341-5029
11605
RODSTON ADAMS
11638
ALBERTHA PRATT
CLASSIFIEDS 31
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
BAYVIEW MOTORS LTD. Is currently seeking to employ the following individual
SALON HELPER To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour
CONTACT: 344-0038
11641
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE ADVISOR • This individual MUST have 5 years experience in this field • Be able to supervise a staff of 10+ persons • Possessing extensive knowledge of all types of motor vehicles is a MUST • MUST have good organizational skills • Excellent customer service skills • Be able to work with little to no
supervision • MUST possess a valid driver’s license • Moderate computer skills are reqired • Possess working knowledge of “flatrate” labor pricing • MUST be able to work weekends and holidays BELONGER ONLY NEED APPLY salary commensurate with experience
Please submit all applications between 8am-5pm Monday – Friday at Bayview Motors Ltd., Leeward Highway, Providenciales or via email at hr@tciautogroup.com
BENJAMIN WALKIN
BEEN CONSTRUCTION
MODERN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Requires a
Is seeking an experienced
IT PROFESSIONAL
DOMESTIC WORKER/ SOFTBALL COACH
WITH THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS: • Bachelors of Science in Computer Engineering • 5 or more years working experience in the Computer Field • Excellent Communication skills
Must be willing to work weekends and public holidays. $5.00 per hour.
Qualified Belongers need only apply Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
Interested persons may contact us by telephone #341-8821 11650
MAITRE D
GROUNDSKEEPER
11607
The SFS Center for Marine Resource Studies located on South Caicos, seeks an individual to • Assist in overall site maintenance (building, grounds, vehicles, boats), • The ability to work with a minimum of direct supervision. • Work with and maintain an appropriate cultural sensitivity with staff and students. • TCI work authorization or ability to obtain • Ability to speak and understand English • Ability to lift up to 75 pounds unassisted numerous times per day • Maintenance and construction experience including but not limited to; painting, electrical & plumbing repair, grounds keeping, masonry, woodworking, portage, safe and proper usage of power tools, roofing. To apply send a CV and cover letter to: hhertler@fieldstudies.org
PLEASE CONTACT 231 6920
RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Supervision of wait staff • Reservations and running of dining room during service • Must have knowledge of wines especially Italian • Must have 5 years experience in the industry • Must be willing to work nights, weekend and public holidays • Salary $450.00 per week Belonger only need apply Drop resume to Bella Luna, Grace Bay deadline for applications is November 16th, 2015
Is looking for a
LABOURER To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.
11615
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
11501
CONTACT: 231-0770 11612
DEDRICK HANDFIELD NORTH CAICOS Is looking for a
MALE HELPER
To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour CONTACT: 241-8121 11604
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY – THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
DOMDESIGN
D & B AUTO REPAIR
Is looking for a
Shamrack Plaza, Industrial Park Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Tel: 649-941-8438. Fax: 649-941-7387
This position reports to the Core Network Manager and is responsible for the realtime management of all VAS, MPLS, HSPA/LTE Core (Mobile packet core), Cable TV; Broadband IP based networks with specific emphasis on the MPLS core networks. They will design and maintain all internal MPLS networks and Cloud based Corporate MPLS networks. They will assist in the design and implementation of all MPLS networks for corporate customers and manage and maintain Policy and Charging Infrastructure. They will provide first-line identification and resolution of faults, and ensure that all required documentation is maintained in a timely basis.
MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Responsible for the design, installation and support of all Packet Core and IP based systems to support the technical operations of the business. • Design IP Numbering an addressing schemes, Development, Configuration and Implementation of IP based systems • Perform dimensioning and capacity planning of IP network • Design, manage and implement all MPLS core networks for all technologies. • Planning, designing and management of all Mobile Packet Core technologies. • Management and maintenance of all Packet Core systems which include, Ericsson SGSN-MME, EPG, Ericsson Mobile Packet Backbone Network (MPBN) for LTE, WCDMA, DNS and AAA. • Responsible for operation and maintenance of all Policy and Mobile Data Billing Systems • Responsible for all IP based systems, which include Cisco network devices (Routers and Switches), SUN Solaris/Linux servers, Checkpoint and Juniper Firewalls to ensure their high availability. • Managing and coordinating activities that involves updates and changes by external partners in including Roaming and ISP upstream providers. • Develop and schedule preventative and corrective maintenance policies and procedures, such as regular backups, spares inventory, to ensure high availability of all VAS and IP based systems. • Ensure that Digicel TCI continue to operate on secure local and wide area networks with the implementation of VPN technologies and firewall policy management • Ensure that network metrics are closely monitored (QoS and KPIs) and captured so as to provide proactive network management, as well as regular feedback on network performance in the form of reports to management • Provide IP Support to other departments and external parties as required
DESIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
• MPLS certified or trained with relevant experience in managing and implementing MPLS networks • In-depth knowledge of switching, routing, technologies, DNS, MPLS, Mobile data LTE, WCDMA, GSM • In-depth knowledge and experience with UNIX and/or Linux systems. • Knowledge of ISP/Service provider IP configurations • Design, implementation and operational knowledge of network security (VPN, firewall management, intrusion detection) • CCNA, CCNP certification and Solid hands on experience with Cisco devices .
ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS:
• 5-7 years’ experience in VAS and IP based network design, implementation and administration • Minimum of a Bachelors Degree in Computer Sciences. Interested applicants should forward their resume to hrtci@digicelgroup.com No later than, December 07. 2015.
Qualified TCI nationals are encouraged to apply.
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS
AUTO PARTS SPECIALIST
Must be able to: • Be knowledgeable about new and used parts • Read catalogs, microfiche viewers or computer displays in order to determine replacement pars stock numbers and prices • Advice customers on substitution or modification of parts when identical replacements are not available • Must have 8 years experience in the auto parts field Deadline for application is December 5th, 2015
11615
PAZ MASSAGE2GO
MASSAGE THERAPIST
• Applicant must have a minimum of 3 years’ experience • Be certified by an accredited school in Swedish, Deep Tissue, Hot Stone, Reflexology, Manicures and Pedicures • Applicant must be able to work on all weekends and public holidays if needed • Applicants must be fluent in English Please send resumes to: relax@pazmassage2go.com 11623
PRINCESS TAKE-OUT NORTH CAICOS Is looking for a
WAITRESS To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.
CASHIER
To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour. CONTACT: 241-1242 11622
SAMUEL HALL Is looking for a
LABOURER
To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour
CONTACT: 241-4838
11624
MPLS/VAS Engineer
WE ARE SEEKING AN
CONTACT: 241-0836
11596
32 CLASSIFIEDS
NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION PEOPLE STATE BANK of c/o 122 Blue Mountain Road, P O Box 127 Richmond House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands hereby gives notice of its intention to sell by Public Auction the following properties pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands: Parcel 20502/162 Ambergris & Fish Cays South Caicos comprising 0.46 acres of vacant land. Registered proprietor: Ambergris Investments Ltd The auction will be held at the offices of Misick & Stanbrook, 122 Blue Mountain Road, Providenciales at 10:00 o’clock in the morning on December 7th 2015 at 10am. A reserve price will be fixed on all parcels. Terms and Conditions of Sale by Auction are available by request from Misick & Stanbrook (649) 946-4732 or fax number (649) 946- 4734. 11608
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIST R E Q U I R E D
• General practice with some emergency room work • Full time 8 hour working day with varying shifts between 8am-8pm to meet the needs of the business • On call duty at least 2 nights per week plus 1 in 2 weekends • Must have at least 8 years post qualification experience and be registered with the Health Practioners Board • Remuneration structure available on request
Please email resume to amp@tciway.tc
LATINO’S CONSTRUCTION
To work 6 days per week salary $8.00 per hour.
CONTACT: 332-0771 Is looking for a
MECHANIC To work 6 days per week salary $10.00 per hour
11602
CONTACT: 241-5000
DUTIES TO INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO: Assisting housekeeper with all general cleaning in and around the house. Assisting the cook with food preparation. Any assistance that can be provided in and around the house. Assisting nanny with the family children. Hours: must be flexible during holidays 7am-4pm evening hours may apply. Salary $7.00 per hour Apply to: NEON HOLDINGS LTD., LEEWARD, PROVIDENCIALES, TCI Telephone: 649-941-7923
11646
INDIAN BAZAAR is looking for a
DOMESTIC WORKER
To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour CONTACT: 649-941-8053
11649
POSITION AVAILABLE
A busy fine dining restaurant in one of Providenciales’ Resorts is inviting applications for the following positions:
MAITRE D Working a split shift; all public holidays and weekends; you will be responsible for ensuring the table setting and general condition of the restaurant is up to standards; scheduling, organizing and training of wait staff to ensure effortless and seamless service each night; implementing ongoing programs to upgrade FOH skills and knowledge on bar, wine and fine dining service. The ideal candidate will ensure and personally supervise that the highest level of hygiene standards are maintained at the bar and in the dining room. As the liaison between the kitchen and FOH, you will ensure the wait staff is properly briefed of daily specials to be able to sell more menu items; possessing and exceedingly pleasant and unflabbable personality, readily able to assist with all guest complaints to a positive resolution for each incident. The candidate will assist the assistant manager in managing established labour and beverage cost; cocktail mixology and wine knowledge is required to work closely with the chef for interesting and “avant garde” pairing for food to beverage titillating the senses our patrons have come to expect; when called upon, interfacing with management for feedback with regards guests comments on all food menus, wine list, cocktail list and meeting service expectations; good “soft sell” techniques are essential; computer literacy in MS Word and Excel is mandatory Base salary $600.00 per week
QUALIFIED BELONGERS ONLY PLEASE SUBMIT RESUMES TO P.O. BOX 459, PROVIDENCIALES
Is looking for a
BAKERY ASSISTANT EMAIL: DISCOUNT@TCIWAY.TC 11642
D & B AUTO REPAIR Shamrack Plaza, Industrial Park Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Tel: 649-941-8438. Fax: 649-941-7387 WE ARE SEEKING AN
BARBER To work 6 days per week salary $8.25 per hour.
CONTACT: 347-3117
11546
TILE LAYER
Is looking for:-
Responsible for general cleaning of bakery equipment Make sure bakery is kept tidy at all times Packing of baking products for distribution Must be honest and have a pleasant attitude towards customers • Must be willing to work from 4:00am – 1:00pm (long hours) • 5 days per week and sometimes on weekends Salary $6.25 per hour
D.N.M. CONNECTION
is looking for a
BAMBARRA BAKERY
• • • •
MINIMUM EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: • BSC Degree in Medical Technology with registration by the Health Practitioner Board Salary commensurate with qualification and experience
FAX COVER LETTER ALONG WITH CV’S AND EDUCATIONAL CERTIFICATES IN CONFIDENCE TO: 649-941-3338
11637
GENERAL WORKER WANTED
• Performing other related duties as required
11614
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Good interpersonal skills • Dependable and at least 9 years of experience • Performing phlebotomy • Processing and testing of samples • Maintaining confidentiality at all times
AUTO BODY REPAIR TECHNICIAN This individual must: • Have 10 years experience in the field • Be able to prime and paint vehicles • Be able to review damage reports and prepare estimates Deadline for application December 5th, 2015
11616
MYSTIQUE CAR RENTAL & TOURS LTD. Is seeking to employ a
CUSTOMER SERVICE AGENT
• Fluent in English • Must be computer literate • Must be customer service oriented • Excellent oral and written communication skills • Must be willing to work on weekends, holidays and at nights • Must have a valid driver’s license and a clean police record Please forward resume to: Mystique Car Rental & Tours Ltd., 72 Old Airport Road, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Deadline: November 27th, 2015 11617
MANPOWER SERVICES LTD. Is looking for the following workers.
A/C TECHNICIAN ELECTRICIAN Applicants must have at least 5 years experience in these fields
CONTACT: 649-345-5689
11606
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS
ELIZABETH CAPRON Is looking for a
CLEANER To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.
CONTACT: 347-6378
11625
GENERAL PRACTIONER/ EMERGENCY ROOM DOCTOR REQUIRED
DANIEL CALCANO
CLASSIFIEDS 33
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
WANTED DOMESTIC WORKER WORKING HOURS ARE FROM 8.AM T0 5 PM, SOME WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS WHEN CALLED UPON. SALARY IS $6.25 PER HOUR, RESUME CAN BE FAXED TO 649 4564
VERNOICA RIGBY Is looking for a
THE TUSCANY RESORT
LEW 1 SHIPPING
Seeks the following
Looking for a
To work five (5) days a week. Salary commensurate with experience.
TELEPHONE: 941-4667
GILLEY’S ENTERPRISES is looking for a
DISHWASHER To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour contact: 649-9464471 or email: Tate@ gilleyscafe.tc
11643
To work 5 days per week basic salary.
11609
per week salary $6.25 per hour
11611
ONE DECKHAND
PLUMBER
BABYSITTER To work 6 days CONTACT: 342-1957
IVAN BARBER SHOP Is looking for a
Qualifications and Experience:
• Certification in marketing and property management • Minimum of ten (10) years working experience in marketing • Proven and unblemished track record of employment • High professional and ethical standards with a positive attitude toward work • Trustworthy and reliable disposition • Proficient in written and verbal communication skills English • Ability to speak and write a second language a plus (preferably French) • Excellent communication, interpersonal and customer service skills • Must be able to work on weekends and holidays • Clean criminal record • Daily administration of all promotional tasks, including formulate, direct and coordinate marketing activities and
•
•
•
• •
BARBER
To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour. CONTACT: 331-1977
KADEEN AGENCY
VILLA HANDYMAN
To work 6 days per week salary negotiable must have 5-10 years experience.
CONTACT: 231-6565
11647
11648
RA SHAW DESIGNS LTD.
LABOURER Must be reliable and responsible, also willing to work weekends and holidays. Salary based on qualifications and experience.
policies to promote products and services, working with advertising and promotion agencies internationally. Implements marketing and advertising campaigns by assembling and analyzing sales forecasts; preparing marketing and advertising strategies, plans, and objectives; planning and organizing promotional presentations; updating calendars. Plans meetings and trade shows by identifying, assembling, and coordinating requirements; establishing contacts; developing schedules and assignments; coordinating mailing lists. Accomplishes organization goals by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments. Must be able to work on weekends and holidays and on call 24/7 Conversing in French with Company’s French Accountants and bankers back in Quebec
INTERESTED PERSON CAN CONTACT: 649-941-4394 EXT 104
WAWA EXPRESSION CAR WASH Is looking for a
LABOURER
To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour send resume to P.O. Box 954 11610
ANTHONY WILLIAMS Is looking for a
DOMESTIC WORKER
To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour
CONTACT: 231-6567 THE CARAVEL RESTAURANT
Is looking for
KITCHEN HELPERS To work 5 days per week salary $6.25 per hour
CONTACT: 242-6121
NATASHA CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients is looking to fill the following positions:
PLANTIUM PROMOTIONS/ CAP CONSTRUCTION Disc Jockey $6.25 per hour Bartender $6.25 per hour Carpenter $7.00 per hour
Contact: 232-4501
Applications together with accompanying CV and certified copies of professional qualifications, etc. may be addressed to:
BIRCH SIMMONS
Cleaner/ Domestic Worker Salary $6.25 per hour 11627
The Managing Director TDMG Concordia, South Dock Road, P.O Box 608, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands. Office No. 649-941-3445. Fax No. 649-941-3446
CONTACT: 941-5707 Acting on behalf of our client: Waterfront Property is looking for a
MARKETING COMMUNICATION COORDINATOR
Responsibilities include:
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Contact: 242-2177
ANP CONSTRUCTION Painter Salary $7.00 per hour
Contact: 243-8090
NATIONAL COLONY REALTY Domestic Worker Salary $6.25
Contact: 431-5723
11603
34 CLASSIFIEDS
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
CLASSIFIEDS 35
TAVEN’S HEAD MASTER Is looking for a
HAIRSTYLIST To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.
11598
CONTACT: 347-2309
WELLENICA BEAUTY SALON Is looking for a
BARBER To work 6 days
per week salary $6.25 per hour
CONTACT: 242-5425 11649
VACANCIES ERB CONSTRUCTION, SWEET T’S RESTAURANT, JAMES & MARIE N. PROSPERE, BREEZE CONSTRUCTION
DOMESTIC WORKER – $6.25 per hour
LABOURERS – $6.25 per hour
KITCHEN HELPER – $6.25
CONTACT: PHILOJEMPLOYMENT@ HOTMAIL.COM
LVA MANAGEMENT LTD. HIRES
GARDENER SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS: - English Language - Communication Skills - Knowledge of chemical treatment - 5 Year Experience in Gardening - $ 8 / Hr Apply in person by appointment Call 941 8118. Turtle Cove, Providenciales
11644
TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS
GOVERNMENT VACANCIES The following vacancies currently exist within the Turks and Caicos Islands Public Service:
Custodian
– Providenciales (Deadline: December 11, 2015) Salary: $14,300.00 per annum The incumbent in this position will follows instructions from the supervisor to ensure that sporting facilities are secure and clean. The holder ensures that order is maintained by users and monitors the entry, exit and compliance of users at all facilities.
Grounds Maintenance Worker
– Providenciales (Deadline: December 11, 2015) Salary: $487.50 biweekly This is a general support services position, to assist with cleaning and maintenance of assigned facilities and grounds so that they are clean and ready for use.
Cleaner (Juvenile Home)
– Grand Turk (Deadline: December 11, 2015) Salary: $487.50 bi-weekly The job holder is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of the Juvenile Home, Grand Turk. Required to perform various cleaning duties as delegated by the supervisor (House Manager or his designate) and is responsible for helping to create a pleasant environment for workers and customers.
Security Officer (Juvenile Home)
– Grand Turk (Deadline: December 11, 2015) Salary: $14,300.00 per annum This position maintains duties after normal working hours, securing and ensuring that the Juvenile Home inside and outside is suitable for use with lighted surrounding and safe environment. There is additional assigned responsibility to perform custodian duties during their hours of work whenever cleaners are complete for the day.
Warden (Juvenile Home)
– Grand Turk (Deadline: December 11, 2015) Salary: $21,400.00 per annum To support the House Manager of the Juvenile Home, Grand Turk to maintain security, control, supervision and the safe custody of the juveniles. The Juvenile Home, Grand Turk is a professional organisation whose duty is to serve the public by keeping in residential placement juveniles with medium level offences. The duty of this officer is to look after Juveniles with humanity and to help them lead law abiding and useful lives in custody and after returning to their communities. To be accountable to the Shift Leader/ House Manager for the daily management and Supervision of Juveniles at the Juvenile Home, Grand Turk.
Cook (Juvenile Home)
– Grand Turk (Deadline: December 11, 2015) Salary: $16,300.00 per annum To provide excellent meals and maintain standard hygiene and cleanliness of kitchen and dining areas in the facilities.
Driver/Messenger (Juvenile Home)
– Grand Turk (Deadline: December 11, 2015) Salary: $14,300.00 per annum Responsible for performing a range of functions including driving and maintaining, Juvenile Home, Grand Turk vehicle; undertaking messenger
duties and providing general assistance related to the efficient operation of the Juvenile Home, Grand Turk. Required to perform various cleaning/ light maintenance duties as delegated by the supervisor and is responsible for helping to create a pleasant environment for workers and occupants.
Clerical Assistant
– Grand Turk (Deadline: December 11, 2015) Salary: $16,300.00 per annum This is an administrative support position for the office. The job holder will undertake clerical and administrative tasks to support the day-to-day running of the office.
Registrar
– Grand Turk (Deadline: December 18, 2015) Salary: $71,400.00 per annum Working under the direction of the Chief Justice, the post-holder will be responsible for the efficient day-to-day operations of the Supreme Court and its Registry. He/she will issue process and ensure due execution of judgments; supervise the administration of cases including setting dates for and issuing hearing notices; ensure that all files are properly maintained; manage the Registry Office and supervise staff and correspond with Attorneys and Litigants.
Production Technician (RTC)
– Grand Turk (Deadline: December 11, 2015) Salary: $26,000.00 per annum This is a support position to the Programs department which has departmental responsibility for Production functions in the studios of Radio Turks and Caicos. The job holder assists in the program production.
News and Sports Journalist (RTC)
– Providenciales (Deadline: December 11, 2015) Salary: $26,000.00 per annum The job holder will seek out and report the news and bring it to the public as quickly as possible. The job holder will aim to present stories in a clear engaging style that’s balanced, honest and fair.
Sales and Marketing Officer (RTC)
– Providenciales (Deadline: December 11, 2015) Salary: $32,600.00 per annum This position provides core support to the Department with respect to Sales and Marketing and as such will lead on recommendations to the Director on the implementation of effective strategies to generate sales revenue and marketing of the products and services of Radio Turks & Caicos both locally and internationally.
Prison Officer (2 Years Temporary)
– Grand Turk (Deadline: December 11, 2015) Salary: $26,000.00 per annum To support the Superintendent of Prison to maintain security, control, supervision and the safe custody o offenders. The Prison Service is a professional organization whose duty is to serve the public by keeping in custody those committed by the court. The duty is to look after offenders with humanity and to help them lead law abiding and useful lives in custody and after release. To be accountable to the Shift Leader/Deputy Superintendent for the daily management and supervision of prisoners at Her Majesty’s Prison.
Interested persons are asked to visit www.gov.tc/government-vacancies for job details and the application procedure.
36 CLASSIFIEDS
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
INVEST TURKS & CAICOS
VACANCIES Manager – Corporate Services and Accounting SALARY: Negotiable in a range from $55,420 to $62,840 depending on education and experience. JOB SUMMARY: The Manager – Corporate Services and Accounting is a key member of the management team with responsibility for all aspects of corporate support to Invest Turks and Caicos, including budgeting and accounting, office administration and human resources. The Manager will have administrative staff reporting to him/her along with the receptionist. Education and qualifications: University degree or college diploma in Accounting, Commerce, or Business Management/ Administration. Chartered Accountant, Certified General Accountant, or Certified Management Accountant designation is an asset. Three to five years of progressive financial responsibility. EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE: 1. Detailed knowledge of generally accepted accounting and internal control principles. 2. Strong analytical, problem solving and decision making skills to evaluate alternatives and provide recommendations on business issues. 3. Significant accounting experience in a public or private company environment. 4. Experience in managing various aspects of a professional office and knowledge of the requirements for hiring, retaining and disciplining staff. 5. Proficiency in the use of various computer programs, including: Accounting (Simply Accounting),Word processing (MS Office), Spreadsheets MS Office), Project Management (Visio)
Legal/Compliance Officer
SALARY: Negotiable depending on qualifications and experience within a range of $73,400-$81,600. JOB SUMMARY: The Legal Compliance Officer is a key member of the Management team and responsible for providing sound technical support and legal advice to the CEO and other members of the team in order to maximize the effectiveness of the Agency’s ability to attract qualified investors to the Islands. The Legal/Compliance Officer will provide legal advice at the Agency with respect to all aspects of investing in the country and take an active role in negotiating agreements with investors. The Legal/Compliance Officer will be a key leader in identifying and providing advice on ways for Government to revise laws, regulations and procedures to improve the business environment for both investors and Government. The Legal/Compliance Officer will provide legal advice on other legal matters that may arise in the organization. Education and qualifications: A law degree from a recognized university and a
member of the bar in the Turks and Caicos Islands. EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE: 1. A minimum of five years commercial law experience, with knowledge of TCI laws dealing with investment projects. 2. Experience dealing with domestic and foreign investors in the commercial law environment. 3. Strong background in using various types of office related software and preparation of presentations and reports.
Senior Vice President – Investor Services SALARY: Negotiable in the range of $77,220-$86,000 based on qualifications and experience. JOB SUMMARY: The Senior Vice President (SVP) of Investor Services plays a pivotal role in the operations of Invest Turks and Caicos. The SVP will be responsible for lead generation and ensuring that the facilitation processes for encouraging investment are efficient and effective and that prospective investors are serviced to the highest standards. The SVP will manage the business development operations and be responsible for assigning proposals to the Investor Services Executives as well as undertaking certain complex or highly politicized project proposal reviews. The SVP will ensure that the proposal review system has all the required policies and procedures to be effective and that the system is functioning smoothly. The SVP will also establish and monitor a strong aftercare service that will ensure that current investors receive high quality support and services. The SVP will be responsible for establishing additional revenue generating services such as a “Concierge” service that will directly assist investors to navigate the regulatory systems. Finally, the SVP – Investor Services will be the Deputy CEO and responsible for the day to day operations of the organization when the CEO is absent. EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS: Post graduate degree in a relevant discipline such as Business Management, Marketing, or Economics. A minimum of five (5) years of senior executive management experience including relationship management with senior level clients. EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE: 1. Five or more years of senior management experience at a public or private enterprise/company/ agency engaged in investment development and/or marketing. 2. Frontline sales and account management experience. 3. Clear evidence of leadership skills along with ability to mentor and grow staff. 4. Extensive research and analysis experience involving industry or economic development issues 5. Experience in destination and/or investment
sales/marketing with evidence of successful lead generation. 6. Experience in preparing and monitoring budgets. 7. Experience in lead generation and supporting customer service. 8. Experience making presentations to large and small groups. 9. Experience in personnel management and team management.
Vice President – Marketing and Promotion SALARY: Negotiable within a range of $73,000 - $81,600 based on qualifications and experience. JOB SUMMARY: The Vice President of Marketing and Promotion is a key senior management member whose goal is to create and maintain a strong marketing and communications program that increases global awareness of the TCI to targeted investors and convinces these investors to make TCI as an investment destination. The VP Marketing will be responsible for conducting research to identify specific investors in targeted sectors and in developing materials and messaging to convince investors of the desirability of investing in the country. As part of this process the VP Marketing will be responsible for developing a strong “brand” identity, maintaining a strong web presence, creating data and reports to educate investors on the country, ensuring that investor enquiries are directed to the appropriate responder and maximizing the impact of social media directed at investors. As well, the incumbent will be responsible for organizing investment promotion events and conferences and in providing public relations support to the organization. The incumbent will manage the work of a Market Research Officer and will also oversee contractors to conduct IT, Event Coordination and Public Relations for short term periods. EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS: Post-secondary degree in travel, tourism, leisure, business studies, marketing, management, journalism or a related field. EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE: • A minimum of five (5) years of practical experience in communications, marketing, brand management, stakeholder engagement, public relations and/ or advertising and experience in destination marketing. • Experience of planning and overseeing a marketing strategy/budget. • Experience in managing relationships with outside marketing agencies • Sound knowledge and experience in formulating and conducting marketing campaigns, particularly as it relates to destination marketing. • Experience in the writing, designing and production of marketing material • Knowledge of website management and other
Continued
VACANCIES Continued • • • • • •
communication channels Knowledge of the most effective ways to use social media. Experience in account management with a strong emphasis on interpersonal client management and customer service skills. Experience in program design, development, implementation and evaluation. Strong strategic planning, problem solving and critical thinking skills. Experience making presentations to large and small groups. Experience in line managing staff.
GENERAL INFORMATION FOR ALL APPLICANTS In evaluating the education and experience of applicants, the evaluation committee will consider an equivalent combination of education and experience. These are all management positions, reporting to the CEO and candidates for all these positions will need the following skills: • Strong track record of competency in current and previous employment. • Excellent Leadership Qualities • Strong Writing and presentational skills. • Excellent Communication and interpersonal skills. • Excellent skills in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook • Ability to work in a team environment and manage time effectively • Commercial awareness. • Creativity. • Ability to maintain confidentiality ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE ASSESSED FOR THE FOLLOWING PERSONAL QUALITIES IN ADDITION TO EDUCATION, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE. 1. Open and engaging demeanor. 2. Able to generate and share ideas. 3. Hands-on approach. 4. Willing to take personal responsibility 5. Able to win trust and personal credibility 6. Persistence and personal resilience. 7. Willingness to personally deliver quality to business clients. 8. Willingness to understand different cultures, lifestyles and associated points of view. 9. Willingness to understand the values associated with small communities. APPLICATION PROCEDURE Interested persons should submit a resume, along with their contact information, cover letter, two letters of reference (one from a former employer), copies of educational certificates, a Police Certificate and a copy of the Passport photo page. To obtain a copy of an individual job description please send an email to investturksandcaicos@gmail.com. Alternatively persons can get the job description from the TCI Government website at www.gov.tc/governmentvacancies All applications must be received by 12 noon on Tuesday, 15th, December 2015 and should be emailed to investturksandcaicos@gmail.com. Only persons considered for an interview will be contacted.
CLASSIFIEDS 37
PROVO CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Invites applicants for the position of:
JANITOR/ CLEANER
Application must be made in writing to: Mrs. Martha Harris Provo Christian School P.O. Box 305 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands or email: provochristianschool@hotmail.com Deadline for applications is April 4th, 2014 11627
VAN’S RIMS TIRE & AUTO SERVICE Is looking for a
LABOURER To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.
CONTACT: 232-7177
WARD’S CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients Coyaba Restaurant, Ripple Ltd., EY Contractors, P.J. Barber Shop is looking to fill the following positions:
WAITRESS MAITRE D UPHOLSTERER DOMESTIC WORKER COSMETOLOGIST Salary $6.50/ $7.00/$8.00 per hour
CONTACT: 649-345-7212 J.A. CLEANING Is looking for a
TURQUOISE LANDSCAPING
GARDENERS • Starting pay $6.25 per hour • Must have previous gardening experience and be familiar with landscaping equipment such as lawnmowers, trimmers etc. • Must be willing to carry out work such as heavy lifting, digging, weeding, trimming and plant waste removal • Must be willing to work weekends and holidays • Must have a clean police record
Please email turquoiselandscaping@tciway.tc to arrange an interview 11606
To work 6 days per week salary $6.50 per hour.
CONTACT: 244-7033 11635
Is looking for a
CLEANER To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.
CONTACT: 245-8939
CASHIER (BILINGUAL) Duties: Cross-sell company products and services; assist Sales Team in promoting products and services in Tagalog; Interpret and translate Tagalog for efficient service delivery; record transactions for money transfer; prepare / maintain multiple end of day reports. Must be available to work rotated shift everyday including weekends and public holidays, between 7:00 am & 7:00 pm. Skills/Qualifications:
· Minimum of 2 years financial institution experience · Associate of Science degree or Diploma · Training, experience and certification in Anti-Money Laundering · Demonstrates ability to organize and manage a complex product, service and procedures environment · Fluent in English and Tagalog SALARY $6.25 -$13.00 per hour (based on qualification & experience).
Please submit application letter and resume to The Chairman & CEO, NCS eMoney Services, Providenciales, TCI. email: tcihrstaff@gmail.com. The application deadline is November 30, 2015. Suitable candidates will be contacted.
11626
BELLA LUNA RISTORANTE CHEF
CLEANER
SUPER CLEANING SERVICES
11623
INVEST TURKS & CAICOS
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
11621
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
• Minimum 10 years working experience in restaurants in relevant disciplines i.e. Italian and Continental cuisines • Must be able to upgrade the kitchen operations, creating new dishes for the menu • Have charismatic leadership style to engage and excite current team • Must be willing to work 6 nights per week, holidays and nights • Annual salary range: 20K (plus service charge)
RESTAURANT CAPTAIN
• Must have 5 years experience as restaurant captain • Must be able to run dining room • Must have outgoing personality • Must be able to motivate and supervise dining staff • Have knowledge of beverage and wines • Must be willing to work evening, holidays and weekends • Annual salary range: 18K (plus service charge)
CLOSING DATE: DECEMBER 5TH, 2015
SUBMIT ALL RESUMES AND CV’S TO: GTC LIMITED, P.O. BOX 543, PROVIDENCIALES
38 CLASSIFIEDS
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
DOMDESIGN
D & B AUTO REPAIR
Is looking for a
Shamrack Plaza, Industrial Park Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Tel: 649-941-8438. Fax: 649-941-7387 WE ARE SEEKING AN
MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Responsible for the design, installation and support of all Packet Core and IP based systems to support the technical operations of the business. • Design IP Numbering an addressing schemes, Development, Configuration and Implementation of IP based systems • Perform dimensioning and capacity planning of IP network • Design, manage and implement all MPLS core networks for all technologies. • Planning, designing and management of all Mobile Packet Core technologies. • Management and maintenance of all Packet Core systems which include, Ericsson SGSN-MME, EPG, Ericsson Mobile Packet Backbone Network (MPBN) for LTE, WCDMA, DNS and AAA. • Responsible for operation and maintenance of all Policy and Mobile Data Billing Systems • Responsible for all IP based systems, which include Cisco network devices (Routers and Switches), SUN Solaris/Linux servers, Checkpoint and Juniper Firewalls to ensure their high availability. • Managing and coordinating activities that involves updates and changes by external partners in including Roaming and ISP upstream providers. • Develop and schedule preventative and corrective maintenance policies and procedures, such as regular backups, spares inventory, to ensure high availability of all VAS and IP based systems. • Ensure that Digicel TCI continue to operate on secure local and wide area networks with the implementation of VPN technologies and firewall policy management • Ensure that network metrics are closely monitored (QoS and KPIs) and captured so as to provide proactive network management, as well as regular feedback on network performance in the form of reports to management • Provide IP Support to other departments and external parties as required
DESIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
• MPLS certified or trained with relevant experience in managing and implementing MPLS networks • In-depth knowledge of switching, routing, technologies, DNS, MPLS, Mobile data LTE, WCDMA, GSM • In-depth knowledge and experience with UNIX and/or Linux systems. • Knowledge of ISP/Service provider IP configurations • Design, implementation and operational knowledge of network security (VPN, firewall management, intrusion detection) • CCNA, CCNP certification and Solid hands on experience with Cisco devices .
ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS:
• 5-7 years’ experience in VAS and IP based network design, implementation and administration • Minimum of a Bachelors Degree in Computer Sciences. Interested applicants should forward their resume to hrtci@digicelgroup.com No later than, December 07. 2015.
Qualified TCI nationals are encouraged to apply.
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS
Must be able to: • Be knowledgeable about new and used parts • Read catalogs, microfiche viewers or computer displays in order to determine replacement pars stock numbers and prices • Advice customers on substitution or modification of parts when identical replacements are not available • Must have 8 years experience in the auto parts field Deadline for application is December 5th, 2015
11615
PAZ MASSAGE2GO
MASSAGE THERAPIST
• Applicant must have a minimum of 3 years’ experience • Be certified by an accredited school in Swedish, Deep Tissue, Hot Stone, Reflexology, Manicures and Pedicures • Applicant must be able to work on all weekends and public holidays if needed • Applicants must be fluent in English Please send resumes to: relax@pazmassage2go.com 11623
PRINCESS TAKE-OUT NORTH CAICOS Is looking for a
WAITRESS To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.
CASHIER
To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour. CONTACT: 241-1242 11622
SAMUEL HALL Is looking for a
LABOURER
To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour
CONTACT: 241-4838
CONTACT: 241-0836
11596
This position reports to the Core Network Manager and is responsible for the realtime management of all VAS, MPLS, HSPA/LTE Core (Mobile packet core), Cable TV; Broadband IP based networks with specific emphasis on the MPLS core networks. They will design and maintain all internal MPLS networks and Cloud based Corporate MPLS networks. They will assist in the design and implementation of all MPLS networks for corporate customers and manage and maintain Policy and Charging Infrastructure. They will provide first-line identification and resolution of faults, and ensure that all required documentation is maintained in a timely basis.
AUTO PARTS SPECIALIST
11624
MPLS/VAS Engineer
NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION PEOPLE STATE BANK of c/o 122 Blue Mountain Road, P O Box 127 Richmond House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands hereby gives notice of its intention to sell by Public Auction the following properties pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands: Parcel 20502/162 Ambergris & Fish Cays South Caicos comprising 0.46 acres of vacant land. Registered proprietor: Ambergris Investments Ltd The auction will be held at the offices of Misick & Stanbrook, 122 Blue Mountain Road, Providenciales at 10:00 o’clock in the morning on December 7th 2015 at 10am. A reserve price will be fixed on all parcels. Terms and Conditions of Sale by Auction are available by request from Misick & Stanbrook (649) 946-4732 or fax number (649) 946- 4734. 11608
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIST R E Q U I R E D
• General practice with some emergency room work • Full time 8 hour working day with varying shifts between 8am-8pm to meet the needs of the business • On call duty at least 2 nights per week plus 1 in 2 weekends • Must have at least 8 years post qualification experience and be registered with the Health Practioners Board • Remuneration structure available on request
Please email resume to amp@tciway.tc
LATINO’S CONSTRUCTION
To work 6 days per week salary $8.00 per hour.
CONTACT: 332-0771 Is looking for a
MECHANIC To work 6 days per week salary $10.00 per hour
11602
CONTACT: 241-5000
DUTIES TO INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO: Assisting housekeeper with all general cleaning in and around the house. Assisting the cook with food preparation. Any assistance that can be provided in and around the house. Assisting nanny with the family children. Hours: must be flexible during holidays 7am-4pm evening hours may apply. Salary $7.00 per hour Apply to: NEON HOLDINGS LTD., LEEWARD, PROVIDENCIALES, TCI Telephone: 649-941-7923
11646
INDIAN BAZAAR is looking for a
DOMESTIC WORKER
To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour CONTACT: 649-941-8053
11649
POSITION AVAILABLE
A busy fine dining restaurant in one of Providenciales’ Resorts is inviting applications for the following positions:
MAITRE D Working a split shift; all public holidays and weekends; you will be responsible for ensuring the table setting and general condition of the restaurant is up to standards; scheduling, organizing and training of wait staff to ensure effortless and seamless service each night; implementing ongoing programs to upgrade FOH skills and knowledge on bar, wine and fine dining service. The ideal candidate will ensure and personally supervise that the highest level of hygiene standards are maintained at the bar and in the dining room. As the liaison between the kitchen and FOH, you will ensure the wait staff is properly briefed of daily specials to be able to sell more menu items; possessing and exceedingly pleasant and unflabbable personality, readily able to assist with all guest complaints to a positive resolution for each incident. The candidate will assist the assistant manager in managing established labour and beverage cost; cocktail mixology and wine knowledge is required to work closely with the chef for interesting and “avant garde” pairing for food to beverage titillating the senses our patrons have come to expect; when called upon, interfacing with management for feedback with regards guests comments on all food menus, wine list, cocktail list and meeting service expectations; good “soft sell” techniques are essential; computer literacy in MS Word and Excel is mandatory Base salary $600.00 per week
QUALIFIED BELONGERS ONLY PLEASE SUBMIT RESUMES TO P.O. BOX 459, PROVIDENCIALES
Is looking for a
BAKERY ASSISTANT EMAIL: DISCOUNT@TCIWAY.TC 11642
D & B AUTO REPAIR Shamrack Plaza, Industrial Park Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Tel: 649-941-8438. Fax: 649-941-7387 WE ARE SEEKING AN
BARBER To work 6 days per week salary $8.25 per hour.
CONTACT: 347-3117
11546
TILE LAYER
Is looking for:-
Responsible for general cleaning of bakery equipment Make sure bakery is kept tidy at all times Packing of baking products for distribution Must be honest and have a pleasant attitude towards customers • Must be willing to work from 4:00am – 1:00pm (long hours) • 5 days per week and sometimes on weekends Salary $6.25 per hour
D.N.M. CONNECTION
is looking for a
BAMBARRA BAKERY
• • • •
MINIMUM EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: • BSC Degree in Medical Technology with registration by the Health Practitioner Board Salary commensurate with qualification and experience
FAX COVER LETTER ALONG WITH CV’S AND EDUCATIONAL CERTIFICATES IN CONFIDENCE TO: 649-941-3338
11637
GENERAL WORKER WANTED
• Performing other related duties as required
11614
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Good interpersonal skills • Dependable and at least 9 years of experience • Performing phlebotomy • Processing and testing of samples • Maintaining confidentiality at all times
AUTO BODY REPAIR TECHNICIAN This individual must: • Have 10 years experience in the field • Be able to prime and paint vehicles • Be able to review damage reports and prepare estimates Deadline for application December 5th, 2015
11616
MYSTIQUE CAR RENTAL & TOURS LTD. Is seeking to employ a
CUSTOMER SERVICE AGENT
• Fluent in English • Must be computer literate • Must be customer service oriented • Excellent oral and written communication skills • Must be willing to work on weekends, holidays and at nights • Must have a valid driver’s license and a clean police record Please forward resume to: Mystique Car Rental & Tours Ltd., 72 Old Airport Road, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Deadline: November 27th, 2015 11617
MANPOWER SERVICES LTD. Is looking for the following workers.
A/C TECHNICIAN ELECTRICIAN Applicants must have at least 5 years experience in these fields
CONTACT: 649-345-5689
11606
VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!
THE LARGEST READERSHIP IN THE TURKS & CAICOS
ELIZABETH CAPRON Is looking for a
CLEANER To work 6 days per week salary $6.25 per hour.
CONTACT: 347-6378
11625
GENERAL PRACTIONER/ EMERGENCY ROOM DOCTOR REQUIRED
DANIEL CALCANO
CLASSIFIEDS 39
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
WANTED DOMESTIC WORKER WORKING HOURS ARE FROM 8.AM T0 5 PM, SOME WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS WHEN CALLED UPON. SALARY IS $6.25 PER HOUR, RESUME CAN BE FAXED TO 649 4564
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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
Entertainment Game of Thrones tweet teases Jon Snow return A poster of a bloodied, but very much alive Jon Snow, has appeared to end months of speculation as to whether the popular Game of Thrones character will return in the sixth series. HBO tweeted the image with the message: “April #GoTSeason6 #GameOfThrones”. It is the first major hint since pictures of actor Kit Harington at an airport in Northern Ireland, where the series is filmed, went viral in July. Snow was apparently murdered at the end of season five. Fans last saw him lying stricken after he being brutally stabbed by his comrades in the Nights Watch. Actress and Pitch Perfect 2 director Elizabeth Banks was one of thousands of fans who took to social media to question whether the character was really set to make a return. She tweeted: “Fired up. Ready to go. #JonSnow”. Violeta Molina said: “Is he back for real? Is he a ghost? Is this all a cruel joke being played on us by HBO?” Stage musician Ben Hanlin added: “You all thought he was dead.... You
Taylor Swift won album of the year, song of the year and favourite artist (contemporary) at the American Music Awards.
Jon Snow was apparently murdered by his fellow Night Watchmen at the end of series five.
know nothing!” Some fans are sceptical about the poster with Citizen D claiming: “Something feels off with that Jon snow poster. [I don’t know] what kind of games HBO is playing but I don’t like it one bit.” Scott Crawely took a slightly more hopeful look: “The real good news, If they can bring back Jon Snow they can bring back all of my other 30 favourite characters that died.”
Channel 4 news anchor Jon Snow appeared to be slightly aggrieved his name was trending on social media, tweeting: “Winter is not coming: I have never been dead: I am a journalist: I am alarmed that my namesake has me trending!” Game of Thrones, which began in 2011, has won 26 Primetime Emmy awards, including this year’s outstanding drama series and a Bafta audience award in 2013. (BBC)
Swift leads prizes at American Music Awards AN ABSENT Taylor Swift dominated the American Music Awards, winning three prizes, including album of the year, favourite artist (contemporary) and song of the year. One Direction also fared well, being named favourite group and artist of the year, for the second year in a row. Jared Leto made a moving speech about terror attacks in Paris, recalling the time his band played at The Bataclan. Celine Dion then sang Edith
Piaf ’s Hymne a L’Amour against a backdrop of Parisian landmarks. “Tonight we honour the victims of the unimaginable violence that took place in Paris and around the world,” said Leto, who sings with rock band 30 Seconds to Mars. “France matters. Russia matters. Mali matters. Syria matters... The whole world matters. Peace is possible.” The Paris attacks were very much on the minds of the other performers and nominees.
Bieber tops UK singles chart and breaks top 40 record JUSTIN Bieber has topped the UK singles chart with Sorry, ending Adele’s three-week run and breaking a chart record for the most tracks inside the top 40. The chart features eight songs from Bieber’s new album Purpose, the first time a living artist has had so many simultaneous entries. However the Canadian singer failed to keep One Direction from the top of the UK album chart with Made in the AM. Their first record as a four piece is the fastest-selling album of the year. Made in the AM sold 93,189 copies in its first week, beating the record previously held by Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds album Chasing Yesterday, and outselling Bieber by just over 3,000 copies. However Adele is expected to outstrip them all over the next week, after her third album 25 was released today. Adele’s track Hello had kept Bieber from the top of the singles chart for three weeks, but he finally claimed the top spot with combined weekly sales of 104,000 - including 5.35 million streams. He dominated the top five, with
Newly crowned “Mr Ugly” Zimbabwe, Maison Sere, poses in Harare on November 20, 2015 (AFP Photo/Jekesai Njikizana)
Bieber’s album Purpose is the second fastestselling album in the UK so far this year.
three tracks including Love Yourself at three and former number one What Do You Mean? at five. His eight top 40 entries see him break a record set by Elvis Presley in 1957, when he had seven songs in the top 40 singles chart. Fleur East’s Sax was at number four, while former X Factor winner Ben Haenow’s debut album debuted in the top 10 in the album chart. One Direction’s first album since the departure of Zayn Malik earlier
this year is their fourth out of five albums to top the chart, following 2012’s Take Me Home, 2013’s Midnight Memories and 2014’s Four. The boyband recently performed their final tour date before they take an extended break. Former UK number one album If I Can Dream by Elvis Presley was in third place this week, while Alone in the Universe by Jeff Lynne’s ELO entered the chart at four.
Zimbabwe’s Mr Ugly pageant turns ugly A 42-year-old unemployed man was crowned Zimbabwe’s ugliest man at a pub pageant in Harare -but the contest turned ugly when the runner-up accused judges of bias. Maison Sere, who was missing several teeth and dressed in torn overalls, beat off five other contestants for the $500 Mr Ugly prize -- a large sum in a country facing massive unemploment. “I want to thank God for winning this title, last time I came fourth. I just want to thank
the judges for recognising me as the winner,” Sere told journalists during a night of festivities Friday attended by 200 revellers. But William Masvinu, a threetime Mr Ugly winner who walked off with a $100 second prize this year, cried foul. “The judges were not fair, the organisers must look for new judges to start the contest afresh. I did not lose today,” Masvinu said. Show organiser David Machowa said he created the pageant in 2012 to celebrate “beauty in ugliness”.
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
41
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
Science & Technology 2015 likely to be warmest on record, says UN weather body
Mosquito larvae can be genetically modified to carry ‘useful’ new genes, such as resistance to the Plasmodium parasites that cause malaria.
Mutant mosquitoes ‘resist malaria’
US scientists say they have bred a genetically modified (GM) mosquito that can resist malaria infection. If the lab technique works in the field, it could offer a new way of stopping the biting insects from spreading malaria to humans, they say. The scientists put a new “resistance” gene into the mosquito’s own DNA, using a gene editing method called Crispr. And when the GM mosquitoes mated - their offspring inherited the same resistance, PNAS journal reports. In theory, if these mosquitoes bite people, they should not be able to pass on the parasite that causes malaria. About 3.2bn people - almost half of the world’s population - are at risk of malaria. Bed nets, insecticides and repellents can help stop the insects biting and drugs can be given to anyone who catches the infection, but the disease still kills around 580,000 people a year. Scientists have been searching for new ways to fight malaria.
The University of California team believe their GM mosquito could play a pivotal role - breeding resistant offspring to replace endemic, malaria-carrying mosquitoes. They took a type of mosquito found in India - Anopheles stephensi - on which to experiment. Dr Anthony James and his team showed that they could give the insect new DNA code to make it a poor host for the malaria parasite. The DNA, which codes for antibodies that combat the parasite, was inherited by almost 100% of the mosquito offspring and across three generations. The researchers say the findings offer hope that the same method could also work in other mosquito species. Although it would not be a sole solution to the malaria problem, it would be a useful additional weapon, they say. Prof David Conway, UK expert from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, said: “It’s not the finished product yet but it certainly looks promising. It does look like the genetic editing works.”
GLOBAL average temperatures in 2015 are likely to be the warmest on record, according to the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO). Data until the end of October showed this year’s temperatures running “well above” any previous 12 month period. The researchers say the five year period from 2011 to 2015 was also the warmest on record. The rise, they state, was due to a combination of a strong El Nino and human-induced global warming. The WMO said their preliminary estimate, based on data from January to October, showed that the global average surface temperature for 2015 was 0.73 degrees C above the 1961-1990 average. Their scientists also found that global temperatures were approximately 1 degree C above the 1880-1899 period, mirroring a recent finding by the UK Met Office. ‘BAD NEWS’ The record-breaking five year period from 2011 to 2015 was 0.57C above the average for 1961-1990. The WMO said that levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere reached new highs. In the northern hemisphere, the spring of 2015 saw the three-month global average concentration of CO2 cross the 400 parts per million barrier for the first time. “The state of the global climate in 2015 will make history for a number of reasons,” said WMO secretarygeneral Michel Jarraud. “2015 is likely to be the hottest year on record, with ocean surface temperatures at the highest level since measurements began. It is probable that the 1C threshold will be crossed. “This is all bad news for the planet.” Other researchers agreed that the
Data until the end of October showed this year’s temperatures running “well above” any previous 12 month period.
latest data from the WMO reinforces the view that human emissions of carbon dioxide, from burning fossil fuels, are continuing to heat the Earth beyond natural variability. “The fingerprint of a warming planet is becoming clearer in nearly every corner of the world,” said Dr Ed Hawkins, a climate scientist at the University of Reading. “Moreover, 2015 is not a one-off, as indicated by the last five years’ average also being the warmest on record. “In the UK, our variable weather means that 2015 will not set any records for warmth, but the longer view shows UK temperatures have risen about 20% faster than the global average. We can expect this faster rate to continue in future.” As well as warming the land, much of the heat has gone into the oceans. The WMO said the waters have been absorbing more than 90% of the energy that has accumulated in the climate system from human emissions of greenhouse gases. The
temperature of the tropical Pacific was more than 1C above average, consistent with a strong El Nino. The WMO said this weather phenomenon has been a factor in pushing this year past previous records. El Nino has gained in strength over the past few months and has been rated as one of the three strongest since 1950. The researchers said that the impact of an El Nino is typically felt more strongly in the second calendar year, meaning that 2016 is likely to be more strongly influenced by the event than 2015. The record temperatures of 2015 were being felt in many different parts of the world. China recorded its warmest ever January to October period. For Africa, this year has been the second warmest on record. Heat waves affected many parts of the world, with India seeing average maximum temperatures over 45C in some areas. There were also extremely hot periods in Europe, North Africa, the Middle East and elsewhere.
Belly fat is more dangerous to health than obesity, study finds New research has found that slim people with pot bellies are at greater risk of death than those who are overweight or obese. In a 14-year study of more than 15,000 people, normalweight men with big bellies – also known as central obesity – were twice as likely to die compared to men who were obese. Women with normal weights and big bellies were 32 percent more likely to die than obese women, according to the research, which was led
by Mayo Clinic cardiologist Francisco Lopez-Jimenez. Previous research has suggested that central obesity is linked to increased total and cardiovascular death. Those with extra stomach fat have less muscle mass, which is associated with higher mortality risk and metabolic dysregulation. Not all fat is equal, moreover. Just as there are “good” and “bad” types of cholesterol, there are different types of fat,
Lopez-Jimenez said. “The fat around the belly might look the same under the microscope as fat from the arms or legs, but it’s much more active.” Belly fat appears to be especially unhealthy, because it’s often deposited in the liver, where it makes inflammatory substances that contribute to heart disease and diabetes, Lopez-Jimenez added. So just how big a belly is considered risky? People can calculate their waist-hip ratio (WHR)
by dividing their waist measurement by their hip measurement, Lopez-Jimenez said. Men are considered to have “central obesity” if their waist-hip ratio is 0.9 or more, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In women, central obesity is defined as a ratio of 0.85 or more. “Often times, we think if we’re a normal weight, then we’re OK,” said Leslie Cho, head of preventive cardiology
Those with extra stomach fat have less muscle mass, which is associated with higher mortality risk and metabolic dysregulation.
at the Cleveland Clinic, who wasn’t involved in the new study, published in Annals of Internal Medicine.
“But weight is not as important as your level of fitness and where you hold your fat.”
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Sports Interational
TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS
November 28 - Decmeber 4, 2015
FIFA wants to ban UEFA president Platini for life – lawyer MICHEL Platini’s lawyer says FIFA’s ethics committee wants to ban the UEFA president for life. Platini and FIFA president Sepp Blatter are currently serving 90day provisional suspensions handed down by the ethics committee and, after seeing their appeals rejected last week, formal proceedings were opened against the pair on Monday. They were suspended over a two million Swiss franc (£1.35m) payment that Blatter made to Platini in 2011 for work that was carried out nine years previously. Platini is taking an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in the hope that he will be able to stand in FIFA’s presidential election on Feb. 26 but his lawyer, Thibaud d’Ales, said the ethics committee wants the Frenchman banned for life. The lawyer told AFP the requested ban was a “scandal” and “excessive.” “This ban is subject to the proof of corruption, but the punishment is clearly excessive,” D’Ales said. “It’s not based on anything in the case.” He added: “I’m wondering if the person in charge of the investigation shouldn’t be called instead ‘the person in charge of eliminating Michel Platini’ from the FIFA presidency. “It’s a pure scandal, and by making it public there’s clearly an intention to cause harm. “The masks are slipping one
Michel Platini (in picture) and Sepp Blatter were suspended over a two million Swiss franc (£1.35m) payment that Blatter made to Platini in 2011 for work that was carried out nine years previously.
by one at FIFA -- the electoral timetable’s being manipulated and there’s a stategy to get rid of Platini as a candidate.” D’Ales also told The Associated Press that FIFA’s aim is to prove that there was no contract between Platini and Blatter for the payment. “Obviously we’ve got the proof that such a deal existed,” D’Ales said. “We will submit it to CAS, which will handle the case within a fairly short space of time.” On the proposed sanction, he added: “The overreaching of the
request really convinces us of this commission’s total lack of credibility. There is not a single tangible element in this case that can confirm the suspicions.” Blatter’s representatives did not comment on whether the same request had been made against the FIFA president. However, a spokesman for FIFA’s investigative committee told AFP that Platini and Blatter’s legal teams have been informed of the report, even if he did not confirm its content. “I can confirm that Michel Platini and his lawyers have got the report and they have also received the request of the investigative committee,” spokesman Andreas Bantel said. “They know what is in the report and they are free to comment on it.” Blatter’s spokesman Klaus Stohlker said the 79-year-old had yet to be informed of the recommended sanction but was “deeply surprised” to learn of that facing Platini. Stoehlker told Press Association Sport: “Mr Blatter was elected by the FIFA congress and only the congress can remove his power.” A FIFA life ban has been overturned by CAS in the past. Mohamed bin Hammam of Qatar had his expulsion by FIFA overturned on appeal in July 2012, more than one year after a bribery allegation ended his presidential campaign against Blatter.
Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry, center, has been on fire this season and is the current favourite to retain the MVP trophy.
Warriors break record for best start in NBA WITH Tuesday night’s 111-77 win against the Los Angeles Lakers, the Golden State Warriors set a new record for the best season start in NBA history, with 16 uninterrupted victories. The Warriors surpassed the 15-0 starts of the 1948-1949 Washington Capitals and the 1993-1994 Houston Rockets, playing in front of a standing-room-only crowd at Oracle Arena. They were in their home venue but without their regular coach — Steven Kerr is recovering from back surgery while Luke Walton, a former Laker, serves in the interim. NBA MVP Stephen Curry led his team in scoring with 24 points and nine assists. He says despite the team’s strong showing early in the season, the Warriors aren’t likely to rout every opponent on the schedule. “It’s a special accomplishment any time you can do something that
hasn’t been done before,” he said. “It’s not going to be total dominance for 82 games.” But NPR’s Tom Goldman reports their winning streak could realistically extend to at least 28 games: Golden State is dominating the rest of the NBA, captivating fans everywhere – and it could continue for at least the next month. The Warriors don’t face an elite team until a Christmas Day matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Warriors are the reigning NBA champs, having beaten the injury-plagued Cavs in last year’s playoffs. If the Warriors are able to keep winning, two more records are up for grabs. The 1971-1972 Lakers won 33 consecutive games for the longest streak in NBA history and the 1995-1996 Bulls had a record 72 total victories in a season. (NPR.org)
Athletics scandal: Dick Pound sees ‘wow factor’ in IAAF report A REPORT into the conduct of IAAF officials has a “wow factor”, says Dick Pound - the man who helped compile it. The World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) commission investigation examined allegations of widespread doping in athletics and it led to Russia being provisionally banned from competition. The second part of the report - held back because of a police investigation - focuses on claims against the IAAF. “People will say how on earth could this happen,” Pound said. “When we release this information, there will be a wow factor,” the commission chairman told the Independent. “It is a betrayal of what people in charge of the sport should be doing.” The findings on athletics’ governing body have not been released after a French police investigation began earlier this month into former IAAF president Lamine Diack and former head of anti-doping Gabriel Dolle.
Dick Pound was a four-time Canadian freestyle swimming champion and competed at the 1960 Olympics in Rome.
Diack is being investigated over allegations he took bribes to cover up positive drugs tests. He has resigned from his position as honorary member of the International Olympic Committee, but has yet to respond to the claims. Pound said the part of his report focusing on allegations against the IAAF looked likely to be released in January. “One fear is that if we issue it on the Friday before Christmas, for example, no one will notice it and we want to have the maximum impact
and deterrent,” he said. All Russian athletes are currently banned from international competition until their country’s athletics federation and anti-doping agency comply with IAAF rules. Pound has shown little sympathy with the clean competitors who have been embroiled in the saga. “I think those clean athletes have to pay the price of being part of a system that is fundamentally corrupt,” the 73-year-old former Wada president said.
Suarez scored twice in Barca’s 4-0 thrashing of Real Madrid on Saturday to take his tally to 15 in 18 appearances in all competitions this season.
Suarez has joined Messi and Ronaldo in world’s top three - Gerrard STEVEN Gerrard believes Luis Suarez has gone “to another level” after joining Barcelona and is now among the top three players in the world. Gerrard was Suarez’s captain during their time at Liverpool and has been impressed at the Uruguay international’s development since swapping Anfield for Camp Nou in July 2014. Suarez scored twice in Barca’s 4-0 thrashing of Real Madrid on
Saturday to take his tally to 15 in 18 appearances in all competitions this season. And with Clasico rivals Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi widely considered as the world’s best players, Gerrard believes Suarez should now be considered in the same bracket. “He was world class but he’s gone to another level,” said Gerrard on BT Sport.
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PROVO HOCKEY LEAGUE:
Maddox explodes for unbeaten Sailfish
Provo Roadrunners are becoming a household name in the TCI.
Provo Road Runners members successful at Vegas Half Marathon SEVENTEEN Provo Road Runners athletes successfully completed the Rock n Roll Series Vegas Half Marathon two Sundays ago in Las Vegas. The successful group took part in several months of vigorous training before competing in the 13.1 miles run. Information from one of the athletes indicated that there were approximately 45,000 participants at the race weekend (5K, 10K, half marathon and full marathon). The Rock n Roll marathons are held all throughout the US and in
several other countries. They attract thousands of runners from around the world and locally in the United States. Members of the Provo Road Runners are no strangers to participating in international full and half marathons in the US and Canada, including the New York and Boston marathons. The group aims to participate in one marathon regionally and one internationally on its calendar of running events each year. In January of this year the group participated in its first regional half marathon in
Nassau, Bahamas. There are plans afoot to make a second group appearance in the Bahamas half Marathon again in 2016. Provo Road Runners is a nonprofit organisation that promotes running, walking and health and fitness. The club has organised runs every day except Fridays and Sundays and attracts runners and walkers of all levels. Persons interested in becoming members can contact Provo Road Runners at provoroadrunners@gmail.com or find the group on Facebook.
THE Scotiabank Sailfish remain unbeaten in the Novice Division of the Provo Hockey League after Maddox Jones exploded with seven goals and an assist against the Big Blue Thunder. The game which ended 8-4 at the Graceway Sports Centre last Saturday is the third consecutive victories for the defending champions. Jones, who scored 78 goals (post and pre-season) for the Scotiabank sponsored team last season, has 15 so far. Federico Paez led the Thunders with three consecutive goals to tie the game in the late first period, but in the second it was all Sailfish.
In the other novice clash the Grace Bay Car Rental Islanders defeated the Grace Bay Resorts Conchorers 5-1 with Jack Blain hitting a hat-trick. In the Bantam Division Carson Greatrex and Zachary Scholar (also an assist) scored four goals each to lead the Villa del Mar Flyers to a 9-4 win over the Saunders and Co Owls. The Owls were led by Joshua Saunders and Joe Canham with two goals a-piece. The Flyers then drew with the Gansevoort Gators 5-5 in their second clash. Greatrex scored four more goals to go with an assist. The Gators were led by Ronin Maclaren with four goals.
The participants enjoyed the beach action.
BEACH RUGBY TOURNAMENT:
Grand Turk seniors register first win against a Provo side
GRAND Turk senior rugby team won their first ever match against a Provo side recently in a Beach Rugby Tournament. The games were held in front of Ricki’s Café. The win was instrumental not just for GT, but for all of TCI, since Provo has been the hub of the sport for a while. Parent body, TCIRFU has been trying to spread the game to the other islands and it seems to be paying off. In the friendly clash, five teams from Provo and the Grand Turk side competed. And in one of the clashes the visiting side got past the Levardo
Talbots Digicel team in the round robin play. The GT team did not make the final, which was won by Nik Hight’s First Caribbean team. The matches were played on an inflatable pitch, sponsored by DHL. Over 300 persons were in attendance, either as players or spectators. Along with the men, the women also played two matches throughout the day, one being full contact and the other tag. For many of the new women who have just joined the TCIRFU, the contact match was a
great opportunity to introduce full tackle. Information from the association indicates that the day kicked off with exciting youth matches. Both boys and girls at U8s, U12s, and U15s levels played tag rugby while the U19s played a contact game. The TCIRFU in a release said that the event would not have been possible without “KPMG, Meridian Trust, BCQS and Hugh G O’Neill & Co for sponsoring our youth t-shirts; DHL for sponsoring the inflatable pitch, and Ricki’s Café for allowing us to host the tournament”.
Jimkelly “The Hammer” Joseph (left) will have to wait until February for his fight with Bahamian Absolym Sturrup.
Sturrup’s surgery pushes boxing event to February NECESSARY bed rest due to a surgery by Bahamian heavyweight boxer Absolym Sturrup has postponed the December 4th boxing card which was billed for the Graceway Sports Centre in Providenciales. The Bahamian boxer was set to fight our unbeaten heavyweight pugilist Jimkelly “The Hammer” Joseph in the main event of a threecard bout. He opted out of the fight this week to recover from the surgery.
Joseph told the Weekly News that Sturrup’s trainer said that the boxer should be fit in a few months. The unbeaten local fighter said that after consultation with the other boxers and sponsors the card will now be held in late February. In case Sturrup opts out of the fight, Joseph said he has a backup fighter in place. The Hammer, who is dangerous in the ring, is looking for his 13th consecutive knockout win.
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TCI finish fifth at Softball World Cup – Clarke wins hitting event THE Turks and Caicos Islands Softball team made a significant improving from last year with three wins in seven games at the 2015 CoEd Slow Pitch World Cup, which was held last week in Tampa Bay, Florida. Last year TCI just won against Bulgaria, while they lost three other clashes against France, Canada and the US. This year the team looked relatively solid; so much so that they recorded three consecutive wins after two opening losses to finish fifth out of eight teams. The national team claimed victory over Curacao and Bulgaria in back-toback games on Friday afternoon, while they won against France on Saturday morning. Additionally TCI’s power-hitter Erica Carter won the Individual Hitting female competition. Carter was the lone female at the event to cross the fence. Overall TCI finished fifth in the tournament. Despite the wins coach of the side, Keith Cox Sr., felt that his team could have done more. “We could have done better. But the game is made up of hits, runs and errors. We made a lot of errors.” TCI suffered a 5-19 loss in their opener on Thursday morning against Great Britain, while they went down
Erica Carter finished as the top female in the Individual Hitting competition.
8-16 to Canada in the afternoon. On Friday morning, TCI lost to eventual second place finishers Germany, and then they won three games in succession. Our national players opened with a 7-5 win over Curacao and immediately after they defeated Bulgaria 19-12. On Saturday morning they got past France 19-8. When the teams met in 2014, France had won 17-11. TCI lost to eventual champions the Bahamas in their last game (818).
The national team did relatively well at the tournament last week. (Photo TCISF)
TCI Sports Awards Committee thankful for support THE first annual TCI Sports Award Ceremony was a success because of help from individuals and business entities and the committee is grateful. A release from the group and the Department of Sports expressed appreciation to: “Our patron Hon Akierra Missick, Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Youth, Sports & Library Services; guest speaker Beatrice Robinson-Bean; special guest Delano Williams; masters of ceremony Darren Hillarie and Obrien Forbes; Pastor Pedro Williams; Clement Howell High School; Provo Performing Arts School; Life Productions; Got u Cover; Winkey’s Catering; Liz’s Bakery; Ting Man Premier
Solutions; Darwin Martinez Photography; Pennylaine Photos; Precious Memories; Sure Security Services; Diamond Cleaning; Subtonic Sound Reinforcement; Leyshan Sounds; Jeff Lucker and team from IGA; Kenny Wilson; Department of Sports staff; Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports & Library Services; Jai’s; Drex Seymour & HLB TCI Ltd.; Seventh Day Adventist Youth Ministry and the TCI Community College ushers; Colonel Grant and the TCI Cadets; CoxCo Ltd; IGA Graceway Supermarket; Gilly’s Enterprises; Long Bay Express; Engineering Design Services; Financial Services Commission; Lemon’s to Go; West Bay Club and Inter Caribbean.
North Caicos Youth Football Development Programme kicks off The Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) officially launched its Youth Development Football Programme in North Caicos last Saturday. According to TCIFA’s president Sonia Bien-Aime, “It was a wonderful day for football…” Equipment and football gear were also presented to the development programme during the visit.
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