Turks & Caicos Weekly News

Weekly News Volume 25 | No. 17 | April 30 - May 6, 2011

Price $1.00

Turks and Caicos

FOR ADVERTISING CONTACT:

tcnews@tciway.tc

the national newspaper of the turks and caicos islands

inside



Green light for gold medalists’ scholarships CARIFTA gold medalists Delano Williams and Domanique Missick had double reason to celebrate this week after receiving the green light for educational scholarships.

PAGE  4

ON THE WEB tcweeklynews.com

Clintons vacation in TCI FORMER US president Bill Clinton and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton took time out of their busy schedules to PAGE  5 bask in the beautiful TCI sunshine this week.

World tunes in to Royal Wedding PEOPLE in the TCI were gearing up to join the two billion worldwide expected to tune into the Royal Wedding festivities today.

PAGE  11

Gov’t signs $170m fiveyear bond

FINANCE chiefs have negotiated a $170m ‘low risk’ rated bond as part of the $260m rescue package.

PAGE  4

Owner of Air Turks and Caicos Lyndon Gardiner, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, the airline's general manager Debby Aharon, and former US President Bill Clinton

2

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

SCAN ME

FOR INFO

Purchase a Blackberry 9300 for only $399 and get one month FREE data, five family VIP Movie passes to LRaye Cinema and a free phone skin.

Visit your nearest Digicel Store today. | Digicel’s terms and conditions apply. QR code compatible with Blackberry Messanger 5.0-5.0.1. application. To download the QR code application reader, visit www.getscanlife.com . Data charges apply.

April 30 - May 6, 2011

April 30 - May 6, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

3

4

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

April 30 - May 6, 2011

NATIONAL

Green light for gold medalists’ scholarships CARIFTA gold medalists Delano Williams and Domanique Missick had double reason to celebrate this week after receiving the green light for educational scholarships.

The TCI scooped sixth place in the prestigious regional championships thanks to the medals earned by talented high jumper Mr Missick and sprinter Mr Williams in the under 20s 200m race.

The youngsters’ success prompted PDM chiefs to plea for cash to be earmarked by the Government to enable the pair to pursue their education.

Party leader Doug Parnell wrote to the Governor on Tuesday saying “all Turks and Caicos Islanders feel very proud of the accomplishments” of the up and coming duo. He pressed for funds to be set aside for them as a special concession despite ongoing financial restraints.

“The Governor and the advisory council have agreed with our suggestion,” Mr Parnell said on Thursday.

“TCIG would work with the Sports Commission to provide a bursary to enable the gold medalists to pursue their athletic careers.”

Former Sports Minister and current PDM deputy leader, Clarence Selver, welcomed the Government’s decision which he said allowed more flexibility for TCI athletes to reach their full potential.

“We wish these gentlemen every success and we are looking forward to even greater achievements.”

Mr Parnell also had high praise for TCI athletes who ably represented the country at the 40th Carifta Games in Jamaica. He called on all Islanders to celebrate the “historic moment”.

“This is an opportunity for all of us to show our national pride and support a new generation of Turks and Caicos Islanders who have shown the ultimate commitment

Victorious Team TCI members at the ballpark celebration on Wednesday.

and dedication to their country by representing us to the best of their abilities.

“There is nothing nobler than what is embodied in the achievements of our gold medal winners.”

Mr Parnell and Mr Selver, along with chairman Princie Harris, and former PDM leader and Carifta participant Floyd Seymour were among hundreds who showed up at the Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Complex on Wednesday night for the team’s victory celebration.

Entertainment was provided by We Funk junkanoo group and ‘Sounds of Sax’ musician Jervon Laporte.

Drexwell Seymour, general manager of Carifta sponsors LIME, told the crowds: “I am proud as a Turks & Caicos Islander of the performance of our young people and we commend them for the extraordinary performance that placed TCI in sixth position overall.

“LIME is a proud sponsor of the local TCI Carifta team as well as sponsoring the team’s uniforms.

“LIME is also invested in the Carifta Games with a regional sponsorship of $400,000 for two years.”

The telecoms firm bosses

Gold medalist high jumper Domanique Missick with his new BlackBerry presented by LIME.

presented the gold medalists with BlackBerry Torches and laptops.

Director of Sports Alvin Parker also spoke at the event, saying: “We have the talent here in the Turks & Caicos, all we need is the opportunity for our young people to achieve – and they can.”

Rita Gardiner, one of the

founding members of the Turks and Caicos Islands Amateur Athletic Association (TCAAA), urged the authorities to provide more funding for sports.

“The young people can do it but we have to have the support of the Government and the corporate community as well,” she said.

Gov’t signs $170m five-year bond FINANCE chiefs have negotiated a $170m ‘low risk’ rated bond as part of the $260m rescue package.

The cash injection replaces the previously announced bridge loan element of the fiscal remedy underwritten by London.

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 Gemma Handy – Associate Editor Rebecca Bird – News Editor Faizool Deo – Sports Samantha Dash – Court Cord Garrido-Lowe – Graphics/Production Editor Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams – Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@yahoo.com, (Talk Back) tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com

It comes with a fixed interest rate of 3.2 per cent to be paid in sixmonthly arrears. It will mature in February 2016.

The bond is guaranteed by Britain’s Department for International Development (DFID) and has been rated AAA by both Standard & Poor’s and Fitch.

AAA is the highest available credit rating from both companies.

The higher the rating, the lower the assessed risk.

Governor Gordon Wetherell described the agreed interest payments as an “attractive rate” which reflected the DFID guarantee and the credit ratings.

“The bond does not provide additional funding; it replaces the $170m bridge,” he said in a statement on Tuesday.

“Having conducted a detailed refinancing exercise involving a number of international banks over the past six months, the Government believes that the new bond is the best option available to give us both low cost debt and, importantly, a fixed interest rate so that we have certainty over our future debt service.

“While this replaces the bridge facility it does not affect the other

The Governor said the bond was the “best option available” to provide low cost debt and a fixed interest rate.

elements of the February refinancing which continue under the original terms.”

The Governor warned in March that getting finances back on track would be “tough” but essential before elections can take place.

He said the $260m package would “buy time” to tackle the “dire fiscal legacy” left by the former Government.

But he said it would not allow any u-turns on previous spending

cuts – or fund “significant” new expenditure.

The second component of the package is a five-year loan of $30m at 0.75 per cent over the London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (LIBOR) – the rate at which international banks lend to each other.

The third element is a five-year revolving bank facility of $60m, at 0.25 per cent over LIBOR, which will fund the projected deficits over the next two years.

Collectively, interest repaid on the new package reflects a substantial drop on the $1.16m previously being forked out each month.

Earlier this year the Governor said Britain would retain control over the TCI’s finances while London’s loan guarantee is in place.

But he was said the guarantee wouldn’t preclude elections taking place as long as sufficient progress had been made towards stabilising revenue and expenditure.

Meanwhile monthly deficits are expected to continue for another two years, despite tough budgetary measures.

They include a batch of new taxes along with plans to shave 25 per cent from public service costs.

April 30 - May 6, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

5

NATIONAL

The family spent six days at fashion designer Donna Karan’s luxury four bedroom villa

Owner of Air Turks and Caicos Lyndon Gardiner with former US president Bill Clinton

Clintons vacation in TCI

By Rebecca Bird

FORMER US president Bill Clinton and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton took time out of their busy schedules to bask in the beautiful TCI sunshine this week.

The high profile couple along with their daughter Chelsea and her husband Marc Mezvinsky enjoyed a beach-front break on the stunning private island Parrot Cay. The family spent six days at fashion designer Donna Karan’s luxury four bedroom villa, where they enjoyed 360-degree ocean views and personal chef and butler service.

Under the safe watch of a 21strong team of US Secret Service agents they relaxed on soft white sands and swam in the country’s famous turquoise waters.

On their departure the Clintons told Provo Air Centre employees that they enjoyed their time in the Turks and Caicos Islands immensely and would certainly return.

General manager Debby Aharon explained that she spoke with Mr Clinton, 64, just before he boarded his private jet.

Ms Aharon told the Weekly News she was very impressed by the politician’s willingness to interact and added it was an “honour” to meet him.

The Clintons landed in Providenciales Airport on the evening of Friday, April 22, just in time for a well-needed Easter break.

According to Ms Aharon on touchdown the private plane was instantly surrounded by US Secret Service staff in an “impressive” display of security.

More than 20 protective officers had arrived five days prior to scout

out the area and prepare for the family’s arrival.

Based at the La Vista Azul on Grace Bay, the officers worked in eight hour shifts to make sure the location was entirely safe for the former president and Secretary of State.

They hired out 12 cars to escort Mr and Mrs Clinton and their family to and from the airport and around the islands.

“It was all orchestrated in advance,” Ms Aharon said, “the whole thing was very coordinated – it was something impressive to see.”

She added: “It was rather late when they arrived, they were tired and we didn’t have access to them because the Secret Service was looking after them, but they waved hello.

“On their way back home on Wednesday morning they were a little more relaxed - they stopped and said let’s take photos.”

Ms Aharon described the family as “very relaxed, sweet and considerate” and said she was honoured to meet them.

“They know people want to meet them, stop and have a photo opportunity. They seemed very accustomed to doing this.”

The air centre manager said she spoke to Mr Clinton for a few minutes about the aftermath of the devastating Haitian earthquake on January 12, last year.

She explained that Provo Air Centre had set up a relief station with free food, water and medical supplies.

Mr Clinton, who works as United Nation’s Special Envoy to Haiti, seemed “very pleased about that,” she said.

“Everyone looked very happy and both Bill Clinton and Hillary said

The high profile couple enjoyed a beach-front break on stunning private island Parrot Cay

several times that they’d like to come back to the TCI.” Another staff member said she was impressed by how relaxed and down-to-earth the family seemed.

“They were very casual, Hillary was wearing turquoise pants with a white shirt and Chelsea was in beige jeans.

“Bill looked so tall, they were so nice, very sociable, shaking hands with all the staff and talking with them.”

William Jefferson ‘Bill’ Clinton served as the 42nd President of the United States from 1993 to 2001.

Mr Clinton left office with the highest end-of-office approval rating

of any US president since World War II. Since then, he has been involved in public speaking and humanitarian work.

His wife Hillary, 63, has served as the United States Secretary of State since January 21, 2009, and was Senator from New York from 2001 to 2009.

The Clintons were the latest in a string of high status US politicians to visit the Turks and Caicos Islands.

In December 2007 Nobel Peace Price laureate, Oscar winner and former vice-president Al Gore inspired generations of Islanders to make a difference during a historic

speech on climate change.

The world-renowned environmental activist took to the stage at the Gus Lightbourne Sports Centre in Providenciales where he said that the Islands were truly ‘Beautiful by Nature’ but “when nature is threatened, so is that beauty”.

Before that in February 2007 holidaymakers lounging on Grace Bay beach were astounded to see US Senator John Kerry try out a spot of kitesurfing.

The former presidential candidate stayed at the Palms Resort during his vacation, met up with government ministers and took a mini-tour of Providenciales.

6

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

April 30 - May 6, 2011

A Weekly News column that puts you on the spot for your opinions on the issues of the day

Provo Day bounces back into action WITH this summer’s return of traditional Provo Day, we asked readers for their thoughts on the return of the decades-old grassroots festival.

Provo Day was replaced by the star-studded Music Festival in recent years, which was last held in 2008 due to the high costs.

This July organisers are preparing for the comeback of the popular Miss TCI pageant plus a host of activities associated with the much-loved event of yesteryear.

Good old days

“I remember Provo Day 1990, back in the days of an un-airconditioned Charles Air hanger.

“That was a great event that truly brought the community together, irrespective of whether you were into beauty pageants or not.

“Back then, the ball park was an empty field and after the pageant, we all would go and have a massive party until the wee hours of the morning.

“Band competitions, food stalls, Pauli Girl beer, ‘Souly and the Gang’ and the ‘Rude Rebels’ come to mind.

“Boy, those truly were the good old days.

“Provo had a population of 4,000, we all knew one another and life was simple and good.

“Let’s turn back the clock!”

Time for Justice Day

“The return of those traditional festivals are to be celebrated. Provo Day, or the various celebrations on the other islands. Everyone does not live in Provo, thank God! “These events were replaced during the last internal Government with million dollar music fests and stars, many we did not know.

“Now we are stuck with the bill for those upbeat non-cultural events where alcohol flowed like water.

“What the country is looking forward to however is not Provo Day but ‘Justice Day’ to see justice done so we can move forward.

“Notice on the internet whenever a story goes up about an arrest or information on the SIPT team, the number of readers jumps way up. Stories about social events attract less attention.

“After two plus years since the promise of justice from the Commission of Inquiry most are frustrated and some are biting their nails.

“If someone can announce at Provo Day when Justice Day will take place they will draw a crowd.

“The march to reach the milestones seems to most like the Bataan Death March – terrible, painful and so slow.

“We look forward to the day when Provo

Day or one of the out island expos is the main event in the TCI; a day to really celebrate.”

Provo Day started as a modest beauty pageant in the early 1970s. Pictures show previous contests over the years.

Key part of culture

“I think that the Provo Day celebration is a key part of our culture here in the TCI. “It should be strongly promoted by the Tourist Board, the Hotel Association and business in general.

“As to the Music Festival, good riddance to a costly public display of another of Mike Misick’s ego trips!”

Sense of community

“First, a huge nix on the star-studded Music Festival. It was ridiculously expensive and didn’t bring in any revenue. Yes it was exciting, but we need to be realistic about things like that.

“I think I went to my first Provo Days in 1986. One year we spent weeks preparing decorations for our old Ford truck and paper costumes for kids.

“We filled the truck bed with local kids and friends and joined the parade from the high school to downtown.

“There were fireworks out on a barge at sea - I think Crazy George may have orchestrated that. It was fabulous.

“We couldn’t afford tickets to the various dos - like the Miss T &C Queen - but we followed it all and it was a great time.

“When the venues for events changed, to accommodate bigger crowds, I lost interest.

“But I remember the old Provo Days. There was a real spirit of community, with ex-pats and TIs partying (peacefully!) together.

“I don’t really want to spend a night in uncomfortable heels at Club Med or Beaches to watch events.

“I am more the ‘party in the streets’ kind of person so I’ll keep Maskanoo and probably skip Provo Days.”

Loving and unified

“I remember when Carl Ewing headed the festival. It was wonderful to see sometimes as

much as 20 floats parading downtown.

“We didn’t have a star-studded music festival, but we still attracted celebrities back then.

“I must say it was much nicer to have them rub shoulders with Danny Glover and John Salley who mingled with the crowds hugging all they encountered and they weren’t being paid for it.

“It was wonderful to attend pageants when they had more than 15 ladies vying for the title of Miss Turks and Caicos. Carmelita, Sharon Simons and Barbara Hamilton made us proud.

“Everyone seems so loving and unified back then. My, how times have changed.”

Sad memories

“Memories of our Premier, looking out of it in his VIP box with the lovely DJ girl Roxie by his side, was very sad.

“Go back to the old days when Danny Glover and Sharon Thompson were judges at

Williams Auditorium.

“Forget Rihanna, Shaggy, etc. Let’s stay with the Home Boys and David Bowen’s group and the children shows!”

Welcome return

"Why did these festivals stop to begin with?

Don't we know that in slavery times, tradition of music and culture went on regardless of what was going on with the Government?

So let the festival begin.”

 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

April 30 - May 6, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

7

NATIONAL

Public service roles to be cut

A NUMBER of public service roles are to be cut after a “thorough review” of the payroll.

According to the interim government, the positions were created during the former government’s tenure and many had no basis.

Others were temporary roles which were extended “without good reason, often by years”.

The cuts will save the government tens of thousands of dollars and help to rectify the gaping budget deficit.

Staff will be given six weeks notice along with any relevant termination package.

In a press release sent to media on

Thursday a government spokesperson said: “As part of ongoing work to tackle the serious budget deficit, work continues in government to enhance revenue and to identify irregularities in expenditure.

“A thorough review of the public service payroll has revealed that there are a number of waged positions in which persons are currently employed and for which there are no budgeted allocations.

“The justification for the creation of these positions was not always clear and in some cases appointments appear to have been made arbitrarily, without following due process.

“In others instances, posts initially created on a short term basis have been extended without good reason, often by years.”

The release went on to say that after “careful consideration” it was decided that positions falling outside the budget allocation should be removed.

The services of those holding such positions will end with effect from May 31.

Exceptions will be made only where the relevant Permanent Secretary is able to present a strong

business case to retain any of these positions.

Under the general rules of the Turks and Caicos Islands Public Service Ordinance (1997), this category of employee should be given two weeks notice before termination of services.

However, recognising the need for these persons to make financial or other adjustments and to prepare for this transition, the government has elected to give a total notice period of six weeks.

Any terminal benefits due to those concerned will be paid in accordance

with their terms and conditions of service.

The spokesperson went on to say: “These are challenging times and it is unfortunate that this action is necessary.

“However, it is clear that had official procedures been followed under the previous government, these difficult but essential corrections would not be necessary now.

“Sadly, this is yet another issue arising from the legacy of maladministration inherited from the previous government and which we are now obliged to address.”

Dog carriers needed

ANIMAL rescuers Potcake Place are in desperate need of dog carriers and mobile kennels to take pups to their new homes.

People who have transported pets in the past and still have the carriers or those willing to donate can drop the much needed equipment into the foundation’s Florida or TCI office.

Eliza Kurdziel of Potcake Place said: “We are in desperate need of carrier bags and kennels to get our adopted dogs off island and into their new homes.

“If you have adopted a dog from us in the past and still have not returned the cabin pet bag or kennel please send to our Florida address as soon as possible.

“We have absolutely none at the moment and cannot buy them on

island if we wanted to.

“We have many pups that have been adopted and need to get to their new homes!”

TCI residents can drop carriers to the shop in Salt Mills Plaza, Grace Bay, and American residents can send carriers to Sun International Attention: Potcake Place c/o Graceway IGA, 2230 SW/2nd Street, Pompano Beach, FL 33069.

TCI stamps get a boost TCI’s philatelic bureau could soon be given a huge boost, if exciting new proposals go ahead.

During this week’s advisory council meeting, the country’s stamp experts announced plans to enter into a contract with a major international stamp supplier.

Together the two bodies will produce and market Turks and Caicos Islands stamps, coins and other collectibles.

According to manager of the TCI Philatelic Bureau, Girlie

Garland, this could massively increase the bureau’s revenue earning capacity.

Ms Garland and Arthur Been, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade Tourism and Communications, updated the advisory council on the bureau’s operations on Wednesday at the NJS Francis building in Grand Turk.

The council not only supported their plans but also welcomed new themes selected for pending stamp releases.

Profe e.g. Heaslsionals are weltchCare, ome.

Provo's BEST

Ask Rent-toa-bout Use your Own! ho allowan using ce

HOUSE BARGAIN

Available with 100% Owner Financing*!!!

Newly constructed 4-bedroom home, 3 baths, with extra bedroom lock-off apartment, has to be seen to be believed as to value, all in an upscale, secure, progressive community which offers ongoing future enhancement of property values. BCQS valued at $510,000 just over 6 months ago in Feb 2010 but talk to us for a steal of a deal!

Call 231-1591 or 946-5706 *Rent-to-Own or upfront bank financing arranged for qualified purchaser.

8

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

& CrimeCourt

WITH Samantha Dash–RIGBY

Case against movie star’s dad dropped THE CASE against Carl Blonsky, father of famed ‘Hairspray’ actress Nikki Blonsky, has been thrown out of court.

The move came on Wednesday after Magistrate Clifton Warner was advised that it was Attorney General Huw Shepheard’s decision.

The prosecutor told the Magistrate that she received instruction from “very high up” that they were to discontinue the prosecution against Blonsky.

Blonsky’s attorney Oliver Smith told the Magistrate that he received a letter dated February 16 from and signed by Mr Shepheard.

The letter stated that the AG had reviewed the file and was not satisfied that it was in the interests of justice to continue the prosecution.

Smith thought this was a very wise course taken by the chambers.

Blonsky was said to have been involved in a brawl between his daughter Nikki and former America’s Next Top Model contestant Bianca Golden in the departure lounge at Providenciales International Airport on July 30 2008.

Bianca’s mother Elaine Golden

was apparently seriously injured in the fight - she claimed that she was repeatedly kicked and punched all over her body by Blonsky.

Mrs Golden was taken to hospital with complaints that her throat and voicebox were in severe pain.

“I am in pain all the way down my arm and legs. I can hardly talk, walk and my head is hurting all over,” she later a Weekly News reporter.

Meanwhile, Carl Blonsky, Nikki Blonsky and Bianca Golden were arrested, charged and taken before Providenciales Magistrates Court.

Blonsky pleaded not guilty to the charges of grievous bodily harm and actual bodily harm and was denied bail as the Magistrate thought the injuries were serious and if found guilty Blonsky faced jail time.

His attorney tried to convince the Magistrate that Blonsky could be guaranteed to return to the Islands because he did not want to do anything to harm his daughter’s reputation.

“If he did not return, the matter would be reported in papers throughout America,” the lawyer said.

He added that Blonsky was of

good character and would be willing to put his life savings of $75,000 down as assurance.

The Magistrate was not convinced and Blonsky was taken into custody.

However a few days later, he was granted $3,000 bail by Chief Justice Gordon Ward to return to the TCI at a later date for trial.

Blonsky never returned.

Elaine Golden was later airlifted for treatment in Miami and was reported to have suffered cerebral lesions, nasal fractures and swelling, slurred left-side weakness, insomnia and memory impairment, among other injuries.

Smith told the court that that was a ploy by Golden to cash in on Nikki Blonsky’s fame.

Nikki also pleaded not guilty to charges of actual bodily harm against Bianca and common assault against her mother, and was released on $6,000 bail.

Bianca opted to be tried in the Supreme Court by a judge and jury for her charge of actual bodily harm against Nikki and was also released on $6,000 bail.

Neither of them ever returned to the TCI.

Jamaican man gets life sentence for killing his wife THE JAMAICAN man accused of murdering his wife in her Stammer’s Run home in 2008 was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment on Thursday.

Alvin Stanford faced Chief Justice Gordon Ward and a jury panel in Grand Turk Supreme Court for the murder of 51-year-old Letetia Theresa Stanford (nee Barrett).

Stanford, aged 33, was found guilty due to overwhelming evidence against him.

The court heard that the marriage was estranged and Mrs Stanford lived in Blue Hills with her eightyear-old daughter.

The accused had no key to the apartment but he used to force his way in through the window.

He was abusive and his wife was very afraid of him.

April 30 - May 6, 2011

A few months before her death, Stanford chopped the mother of two girls with a cutlass but she was reluctant to report it to the police.

At her elder daughter’s insistence, she eventually made the report but later dropped the charges.

On December 1 2008, the woman sent her younger daughter to school to tell the teacher to call the police.

The teacher went over to the apartment and met the accused there.

He reassured the teacher that he was calm and that he only wanted to talk.

The teacher left and that was the last time she or the child saw Mrs Stanford alive.

Later that afternoon, the child returned home from school and called out to her mother, but got no

POLICE REMINDERS WITH CALVIN CHASE DETECTIVE POLICE SERGEANT USING a horn or other audible warning device excessively or to cause unnecessary discomfort is against the law.

It is a ticketable offence under the Road Traffic Ordinance and persons found guilty of this can expect to pay a fine of $60.

If you are a part of a motorcade under the escort and supervision of the police, you are not committing that offence.

response.

An adult came to the child’s assistance, looked in through the window and saw the woman lying on the bed. She did not respond to their calls.

The police were notified and upon arrival, they found the woman’s lifeless body on the bed.

She had been stabbed 27 times and her throat was slit.

Stanford was later found in the bushes and was eventually turned over to the police.

Investigators noticed an injury on his left hand and his DNA under the dead woman’s right hand fingernails.

He was left-handed and she was right-handed.

This led investigators to believe that the accused was wounded while he was stabbing his wife.

Forensics also revealed his blood on the dress she was last seen alive in.

His attorney Finbar Grant laid a defence of reasonable doubt.

He was of the view that someone else could have done the killing.

But Principal Crown Counsel JoAnn Meloche rebutted that there was no evidence of an intruder.

Mrs Stanford, who hailed from the parish of St Ann in Jamaica, was a member of the Solid Rock Apostolic Church in Providenciales.

Several church members were visibly distressed and “lost for words” the day “Sister Letise” was killed.

“We are all sad. She was a nice person. Very quiet,” one church sister said in tears.

Police bailed for unlawful carnal knowledge THE POLICEMAN who allegedly had sex with a minor was arraigned in Providenciales Magistrates Court and granted bail with conditions.

Curado Missick, aged 20, a TC Islander, appeared before Magistrate Clifton Warner to face a charge of unlawful carnal knowledge.

It was alleged that on April 13, Missick had sexual intercourse with a 14-year-old girl.

He was granted $5,000 bail and told to attend Grand Turk Supreme Court on June 6 for a sufficiency hearing.

Magistrate Warner also instructed the policeman to reside strictly on the island of his birth, Grand Turk, to surrender all travel documents and to report to Grand Turk police station every Sunday at 10am.

He was warned not to contact the victim or any of the witnesses.

Trio on bail for burglary THREE young men were granted bail on Wednesday after they appeared before Magistrate Clifton Warner for allegedly burgling the Five Cays home of Walner Registre.

Tyrell Colebrook, aged 19, Lavelle Williams, 22, and Frederick Arthur, 18, faced the charge of burglary and elected to have their matter tried in the Supreme Court by a judge and jury.

It was alleged that on April 6, they entered the home and stole three cellular phones, a PSP, Nintendo, 15 games, a DVD player, two Guess watches;

three bracelets, two gold chains, earrings, two pairs of sunglasses, five bottles of cologne, printer ink, an iPod, a GE camera, a collection of US coins and $400 cash, all with a total value of $5,515.

Colebrook, Williams and Arthur were each placed on $5,000 bail with a condition.

For the prosecution Oreika Selver asked that the defendants report to the police station every Monday and Friday between 4pm and 6pm.

The young men are slated to attend the Supreme Court on June 6 for a sufficiency hearing.

Alleged money smuggler on bail NICHOLAS Morley, the man accused of not declaring almost $30,000 to Customs officers at Providenciales International Airport, was arraigned before Magistrate Clifton Warner on Wednesday.

Morley, a 44-year-old Bahamian/ Turks Islander, was allegedly found with the money after he arrived in Providenciales aboard an international flight on January 30.

An application was made to the court to have the money seized for three months so that it could be sent off for forensic analysis.

According to the prosecutor, the results revealed that the cash was in close proximity to cocaine.

Morley was then charged with possession of criminal property and concealing criminal property.

It was said that he had the cash in his possession and concealed it knowing or suspecting it to be criminal property.

He opted to have his matters tried in the Magistrates Court and denied the allegations against him.

He remains on $30,000 bail and is scheduled to return to court on June 21.

Bomb joke lands Indian national in court AN INDIAN national who reportedly made a potentially threatening comment to an airline worker at Providenciales International Airport was arrested and charged under the Aviation Security and Piracy (Overseas Territories) Order.

Jatin Tekwani appeared before Magistrate Clifton Warner accused of a crime said to be easy to commit but with serious consequences.

It was said that the statement potentially threatened the security of the airport and the travelling public.

The particulars of the offence stated that Tekwani recklessly made

a false statement to the contents of a box that was being checked in for an outgoing flight on March 30.

He said the box contained a bomb when he knew that to be false.

The accused admitted to the offence and apologised to the Magistrate.

“I didn’t mean to say something like that,” he said.

“I am sorry. It was a joke.”

Magistrate Warner adjourned the case to check the law to be certain that the legislation was intended to deal with the offence.

Tekwani will return to court on June 8.

April 30 - May 6, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

9

NATIONAL

COMMENTARY

Interim disappointments THE INTERIM Government has been in all but one respect a real disappointment.

In one important area they have performed a service to the TCI. They caused the Progressive National Party to lose control of the country’s purse and the country’s land – however, much too late.

God only knows what would have happened if Sir Stanley had not brought the inquiry and therefore the direct rule takeover.

We must never forget that the FCO and Minister Munn and Director Turner did not want the inquiry.

They lost their jobs when the inquiry showed the tip of the massive maladministration and self indulgence which their appointed Governors participated in.

Unfortunately the numerous ministerial replacements for Munn were still persons serving the Labour Party agenda so here we are over two years since the inquiry and prosecution one has yet to occur.

Labour stalled, they side stepped, and only after Labour lost the reins of the British Parliament in May 2010 did the SIPT get funded – 13 long months after the inquiry showed it was needed.

We will never know how many millions of dollars and acres of land were hidden away in the meantime.

Poston, Turner, Wetherell and Roberts are British public servants appointed by the former Labour Government. It shows!

Conservative MP Rosindell has promised a new relationship with the British overseas territories.

This can’t happen until the Tories clean house at home.

The British bureaucratic malaise which under Labour has damaged the British economy is now being imposed on an island economy which will not accept it and will simply hide from it until they go away, leaving us more in debt than before they started this poorly advised tax reform.

Early signs came from the inquiry final report. Reports of systemic corruption were misinterpreted on purpose by Labour Party faithful as a cover up.

Fact is, it was not the system which was corrupt, it was the people who were working within the system under the nose of the Governor.

Calling the system ‘weak and corrupt’ served the Labour agenda and instead of prosecuting corruption we have now corrupted the system.

Had the prosecutions gone forward on a timely basis it would have possibly revealed and drawn into it two former British Governors, a British judge and at least one member of the House of Lords.

No wonder Munn, Turner, Bryant and others stalled and their heirs and appointees continue the

By David Tapfer stall.

How could a three-year-old British-approved constitution need massive overhaul? Something smells really bad!

The agenda laid out by Labour’s Colin Roberts while Labour still ruled in Britain is still being played out.

Roberts said while Labour ruled in Britain that TCI must pay for selecting the wrong party for the third time and the wrong leader for the first time. However Britain will not pay for their total lack of oversight.

They employ the typical bureaucratic excuse: it was not my job to watch those PNPs! If not, what were Poston, Tauwhare and Wetherell appointed to do? Hang out and drink rum swizzles at social functions?

We are less than a year into the Conservative-led coalition British Government and the current Governor and his advisers, never initiated in island ethnic ways and helped by an indicted Peruvian Jorge Campodonico, are rushing to finish up their years old agenda; punish the TCI with a host of new taxes.

It appears that since the May 2010 British elections a year ago someone has lit a fire under our Governor.

While he continues to avoid direct answers to any question, he is recklessly and hurriedly ignoring the advice of his own islander forum appointees who could tell him what will and what will not work in the TCI. Shame on you for trying to take time and try to figure out what we are up to, he seems to say.

Meanwhile, back in Waterloo and two years into his direct administration, HE continues to leave the country’s running to the same PNP appointees that boss Roberts says are sabotaging him.

No wonder the TCI is frustrated.

It is time for a new day in TCI. Let’s light a fire under Garlick and apply for invested capital, not loans and heavy impossible taxes to pay off the loans.

Wetherell will soon join Tauwhare on the ash heap of history but, like our former administration, he will have his fat salary in the bank and maybe will be flown home to foggy Britain on the former Premier’s plane, which of late he seems to have decided to keep.

What PNP or Labour person hatched that idea?

One wonders when this all will end.

Letters

Aliens in our own country Dear Editor, There is an existing climate of fear in the Turks and Caicos. Persons are afraid to stand up and speak out for fear of victimisation under this dictatorship of an administration.

Clearly what we want for our country and constitution does not play any role in the final analysis.

So what do the British want? Do they want to see us impoverished? Do they want us to lose our livelihoods and homes?

Do they want to see us embattled?

Or once we have lost it all do they simply wish to follow the advice

of Nathan Rothschild, the London Financer at the time of Napoleon’s hundred-day gamble that ended in his defeat at Waterloo. “The time to buy,” said Rothschild, “is when blood is running in the streets.”

The current situation leads the way for such a thing to happen here in the Turks and Caicos. The end result of this carefully orchestrated plan would be an indigenous population with no birthright and no means of being able to meet basis necessities.

Our very basic rights are being stripped away daily under the iron

fist of the interim administration.

Our rights to food, clothing, shelter, water and electricity are under attack and it will only continue to get worse.

As long as our people tread the unemployment line without being afforded an opportunity to earn a living to meet these basic needs, we as a nation are heading to certain destruction.

We need to organise our strategy to overcome these oppressors, lest we be aliens in our own country.

Euwonka Selver

John Hartley is a retired CEO. He was educated in economics and econometrics at Manchester University and Harvard Business School. He is an occasional contributor at invitational economics seminars at Brazenose College, Oxford.

Economics Column

The long climb AN INTERESTING article in TCI News Now last week comments on the extreme risk that HMG’s fiscal plan will fail because of possible unintended consequences of tax changes on the labour market. It is a good point, and should not be ignored.

The difficulty is that nobody knows much about the labour market because it has been distorted and mangled for years by arbitrary taxes and regulations supposedly designed to encourage Belonger employment.

The outcome has been to completely wreck the market so that today we see that there is the broad division between a rather active market for skills and qualifications not found amongst Belongers, and a market for skilled and qualified Belongers who do what?

We know that there is a small elite layer of Belonger professionals in the law, accountancy and medicine.

We also know that the Government employs hundreds of Belongers with clerical and administrative skills. But those skills are largely redundant in modern business, and are certainly not going to make local business competitive in regional and global markets.

We also know that there is a fairly large class of rent and dividend earning Belongers who own real estate or are ‘Belonger partners’. This category of work, along with employment agencies and the like, ballooned with the construction boom, and is almost certainly threatened by the collapse in construction and depopulation. But these Belongers are entrepreneurial and may be expected to fend

for themselves. Unfortunately, as the article points out, this group will be punished by the increase in deadweight taxes like business licences and the minimum health care tax. And all are burdened by huge debts.

The minimum cost of employing low paid guest workers, as the article points out, has jumped, so we might expect that Belongers will be willing to take a cut in pay and work, for example as cleaners and gardeners at the resorts.

Now comes the more challenging part: the work permit cost of some qualified guest workers earning less than $70,000 a year will fall. Does that mean, as the article says, that the Government will collect less tax? Perhaps. Or it may be that the sharp reduction in tax will lead to more people being employed, or an increase in take home pay, or both. We just don’t know.

One thing is certain, playing around with tax rates in a highly regulated market, segmented by law, is a dangerous game, and the Government must remain alive to the risks, monitor outcomes carefully and be willing to be flexible and to act quickly – something we have not seen so far.

In the long climb out of the mess we are in, there will be no good solutions, only least-worst experiments as the country struggles to get back on its feet towards normalcy.

And each step must be a step towards an open and deregulated economy, creating and importing skills that a modern economy requires. No Government knows what they are; it is the market that must be the judge of that.

10

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

April 30 - May 6, 2011

NATIONAL

Swimmers prepare for conch race

SWIMMERS up and down the region are heading for the ocean this summer to prepare for another exciting eco-swim.

The second annual ‘Race for the Conch’ is taking place on Saturday, July 9, in the beautiful turquoise waters of Grace Bay. It will see hundreds of sea-loving athletes racing either one mile or 2.4 miles from Flamingo Café in the hope of winning a coveted trophy.

Among those taking part in the event is last year’s champion Marcus Diaz of the Dominican Republic who will be battling to defend his title.

A spokesperson said: “After last year’s fantastic success, we are preparing to make this one even better and more exciting.

“Races are open to all swimmers who want to challenge themselves in our beautiful turquoise waters.

“If you are not swimming, you can enjoy the event as a spectator cheering on the swimmers as they race along the shore.

“Sponsors, of course, are most welcome to be a part of this great and growing international race on our island.”

Registrations for the race are now being taken at Marco Travel, Graceway House, near IGA supermarket.

On the day of the event check-in will take place at the start line on the beach in front of Flamingo Cafe between 8am and 9.30am.

Participants will receive a race

Donkey Oatie in the dog crate at Mark Woodring’s veterinary clinic.

The race will see hundreds of sea-loving athletes swimming either one mile or 2.4 miles from Flamingo Café

number, swim cap, and electronic timing chip on Velcro strap to place around their ankle.

Youngsters aged 12 and under can also join in the fun with a special 100m race immediately prior to the main event.

Race for the Conch trophies will be given to the top swimmers as well as youngest and oldest swimmer. All finishers will receive a medal and a t-shirt.

A special trophy will also be

awarded to the winner of the ‘Resorts Cup’ which will recognise the top hotel or restaurant team in the race.

All swim participants will be eligible for prizes to be drawn at an awards ceremony at Flamingo Cafe from 7pm to 8pm.

There will also be a beach party outside the café to follow the fun event.

For more information or to sign up for the race visit www.ecoseaswim. com, call 946-4393 or call into Marco Travel.

Fitness craze takes Provo by storm A TCI gym is the first to launch classes in a new highly energetic fitness-based dance – and is giving a taster session for free.

This May The Athletic Club is introducing the islands to Zumba, a unique and exciting fitness programme which fuses Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves.

Zumba allows its participants to achieve long-term benefits in one exciting hour of calorie-burning, body-energizing movements.

The routine features interval training sessions where fast and slow rhythms are combined to tone and sculpt the body while burning fat.

Currently Zumba is being taught at more than 90,000 locations in 110 countries and has an astonishing 10 million participants taking classes every week.

It was created by celebrity fitness trainer ‘Beto’ Perez who invented the concept in his native Cali, Colombia in the mid-90s.

After walking into his aerobics class, Beto realised very quickly that

he had forgotten his aerobics music.

The only thing he could think to use was the tapes he listened to that he kept in his backpack.

His music taste comprised of traditional Latin salsa and merengue which he had listened to most of his life.

Almost on the spot, he had to create an aerobics class using music that was not traditional aerobics music. It rapidly became the most popular class at his fitness facility.

This Tuesday The Athletic Club is hosting a free introductory class at 5.30pm with complimentary drinks afterwards.

It will be followed every Tuesday with classes at 5.30pm, ($12 for members and $18 for non-members), and a four week workshop, held on Saturdays, through the month of May costing only $50 for members and $75 for non-members.

Classes and workshops will be taught by qualified Zumba instructor Kym Herron Scott who just recently, invited by Beto himself, completed

his master class in San Francisco.

At the completion of the course, there will be a fundraiser for the Turks and Caicos Heart Foundation at Aqua on Wednesday, June 1, from 6 to 8pm.

Tickets will be $25 or $50 with a specialty ‘Zumba Party Hearty’ shirt included.

Karen Malcolm, of the TCI Heart Foundation, said: “The Turks and Caicos Heart Foundation is grateful to the Athletic Club for choosing our organisation to assist in this fundraiser.

“It is our sincere desire to promote and educate the TCI population on taking a proactive approach on keeping their hearts healthy, as cardiovascular disease is the number one killer worldwide.

“We are confident that Zumba fitness will prove to be a positive factor in keeping our residents fit and free from cardiovascular disease.”

Signup sheets and sponsor forms are available at The Athletic Club, second floor, Saltmills Plaza, Grace Bay, or call 441-8686.

Animal lovers come to aid of injured donkey BIG-HEARTED animal lovers put all hands to the pump in a bid to rescue a baby donkey found injured by a Grand Turk roadside.

The barely one-month-old creature was discovered last Thursday evening

by DECR worker Jodi Johnson.

Jodi immediately called the newly formed Grand Turk chapter of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) and chairman Lucy Schofield and member Nate Weiser headed out to help.

They were able to determine that the donkey’s back was not broken following advice by phone from Provo veterinarian Mark Woodring.

They then moved the animal to Lucy’s home where it bedded down for the night in her shower, on a dog bed, with some hay donated by Chukka Caribbean.

Lucy contacted the Provo TCSPCA and made arrangements to

have the creature – which weighed just 45 pounds – flown to Provo for treatment on Good Friday morning.

The injured animal, which raised some eyebrows at Grand Turk Airport, made the flight in a large dog crate.

Following treatment for a dislocated left hip later that morning at Woodring’s Animal Clinic, the donkey – named Oatie – was transported to Camille Slattery’s home.

The owner of Provo Ponies, along with TCSPCA members Barb Young and Sally Winkelman, helped fashion a sling to support the tiny creature, as both back legs were injured and could not bear any weight.

Oatie was still being tended to at Provo Ponies up to press time.

If you would like to help the SPCAs in the TCI, visit www.tcspca. tc or call director Susan Blehr on 941-8846.

Oatie rests in his sling at Camille Slattery’s back deck in Long Bay Hills.

April 30 - May 6, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

11

NATIONAL

Friday’s ceremony took place in the Gothic splendour of London’s Westminster Abbey.

Prince William met his bride while both were studying at St Andrew’s University in Scotland.

World tunes in to Royal Wedding TCI not represented at Westminster Abbey ceremony

By Gemma Handy PEOPLE in the TCI were gearing up to join the two billion worldwide expected to tune into the Royal Wedding festivities today.

The historic event was broadcast via numerous TV channels and radio stations as Britain’s Prince William tied the knot with long-term girlfriend Kate Middleton.

But as leaders of fellow overseas territories prepared to take part in London’s historic festivities, there was no seat set aside for a TCI representative.

Premiers of the Cayman Islands, Bermuda and BVI were all due

to attend the Westminster Abbey ceremony. But the Turks & Caicos Islands were absent as there is currently no elected leader. Governor Gordon Wetherell was not invited.

Anguilla also went unrepresented after Chief Minister Hubert Hughes – who has openly expressed his desire for independence – apparently snubbed the chance to attend.

While today was marked in the TCI with a public holiday – following calls from PDM leader Douglas Parnell – opinions locally were divided over whether the Royal Family still bears any significance to the Islands.

Anti-British tension has increased in some quarters in the aftermath of

2009’s controversial return to direct UK rule.

No official festivities were scheduled to take place but the Governor told the Weekly News he wished Prince William and Miss Middleton “a memorable day and a long and happy future together”.

“The public holiday will allow all those who wish to observe and celebrate the Royal Wedding the opportunity to do so.

“How individuals or groups choose to mark the occasion is a matter for them to decide,” he added.

Cayman and BVI also set aside today as a public holiday, although Bermuda did not.

An estimated 750m people tuned in to watch Prince Charles and Diana’s nuptials in 1981.

Cayman’s Premier McKeeva Bush was due to present the Royal couple with a wedding gift on behalf of his people, created by artist Horacio Esteban.

BVI’s Premier and Minister of Finance Ralph O’Neal said he was “delighted and honoured” to have been invited to witness the coveted celebration.

Paula Cox, Premier of Bermuda, and husband Germain Nkeuleu were also among guests invited to the service.

Ms Cox said she was pleased that the island nation would be represented.

“Clearly this will be a wedding with a difference. It has the wow factor,” she was quoted as saying.

“As a woman you feel a kinship with the idea that love has trumped the odds despite the differences in background. Many of us as women can empathise with the love story.

This is certainly one of my less arduous duties.”

From the Falkland Islands, Legislative Assembly member Sharon Halford and husband John were due to attend.

Honourable John Cranfield and wife Vilma were expected to represent St Helena while Montserrat’s Chief Minister Ruben Meade and wife Joan were also invited.

Contention arose in Gibraltar after Chief Minister Peter Caruana was initially omitted from the prestigious guest list in an apparent oversight. He eventually received a late invitation.

Although Bermuda did not have a public holiday, the island’s Governor Sir Richard Gozney was due to host a formal celebration at Government House in honour of both the Queen’s Birthday and the Royal Wedding.

Special black tie events were also staged at various restaurants and

hotels in Bermuda in honour of the occasion.

Meanwhile, the British Indian Ocean Territory became the first overseas territory to release a coin celebrating the event.

Images of Prince William and his bride appear on the reverse of the Pobjoy coins in designs approved by both Clarence House (representing Prince William) and Buckingham Palace (representing Queen Elizabeth II). Ian Rank-Broadley’s effigy of Queen Elizabeth II appears on the other side.

In Britain, an estimated 5,500 street parties were being held today to toast the nuptials. Thousands more flocked to London to soak up the atmosphere and to try to get a glimpse of the happy couple.

But reports indicated the festivities would have a gruelling impact on Britain’s already suffering economy.

The wedding weekend – a public holiday in the UK – is said to be costing a small fortune.

Much of the bill will be picked up by the Queen, the Prince of Wales and the Middletons.

But taxpayers will foot the cost of security, policing and street cleaning which could run into tens of millions of dollars.

Anti-Royalists responded to figures with some hostility. Graham Smith, a member of Republic, argued that it was not the job of the British taxpayer to pay for the marriage.

“It would be sickening for the Government to allow a single penny more to be spent on the Royals at this time,” he said.

The campaign director for Taypayers’ Alliance said the event was an occasion for the “whole nation” but he acknowledged that “ordinary taxpayers should not be left with a bill fit for a king”.

12

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

April 30 - May 6, 2011

NATIONAL

this week

Friday, April 29 to Thursday, May 5 Friday, April 29  Craig Archibold gets the party started at the Regent Palms from 7pm on Friday nights with the sound of classic Caribbean and Motown tunes. Call 9468666 for details.  Kids can enjoy a Friday night camp out each week at Grace Bay Club from 5pm to 9pm. For $45 per child, youngsters can tuck into dinner under the stars and s’mores, take part in activities and watch a movie.

Email morgan@gracebayclub.com or call 231-KIDS (5437) to reserve a space.

Attendees created two 30 foot raised garden beds

Saturday, April 30  Come along to TCI’s first fruits fair this Saturday in Bambarra, Middle Caicos.

The National Trust event takes place from 9.30am to 5.30pm and costs $75.

Tickets include ferry crossing from Providenciales, ground transportation, lunch and an island tour.

For more information or to reserve a space call 941-5710.  Revel in the sound of smooth jazz by talented performer Perry Delancey on Saturday nights from 7pm at the Regent Palms. Call 946-8666 for details.  Shape those muscle groups you never knew you had during an early morning resistance training session at IGA Sports Centre.

The session begins at 8.30am and costs $12 for one or $100 for 11.

Rotarian Bloneva Green Williams, Tanis Wake-Forbes, Rotarian and PCH garden project leader, garden expert Ryan Jones, Natalie Zaidan of the Environmental Arts, Art Forbes, president of the Rotary Club of Providenciales and Janet Brown, US Rotarian and project leader

Kids embrace the green GREEN-FINGERED volunteers planted a beautiful array of herbs, fruit and flowers at Provo Children’s Home (PCH) this Earth Day. Kids, staff, board members and local residents all came out to the Chalk Sound property on Friday, April 22, to assist with the huge Rotary-sponsored project.

As well as two 30 foot raised garden beds, attendees also created a herb planter and a stunning back garden.

Tanis Wake-Forbes, PCH board member and Rotarian, said the project was an “excellent partnership” between the home, Rotary and the community.

“The goal of the project is to teach the children a new skill, gardening, and to gain more volunteers from the community who are gardeners and would like to share their skills and mentor the children,” she explained.

“Also to show the community that

PCH is trying to be as self-sufficient as possible by growing their own food, embracing green systems and cutting operating costs by harnessing the sun’s power of which we have an abundance.”

Among the flora planted in the new gardens are vegetable seedlings, herbs, banana trees and papaya trees.

The project was jointly sponsored by the Rotary Club of Providenciales and their international partners, the Rotary Clubs of Rappahannock/ Fredericksburg, North Stafford, Caroline County and West Springfield of Virginia.

A massive $25,000 was provided to fund shaded garden beds, a tool shed, all new gardening tools, two different irrigation systems and a solar water heating system.

On completion of the project Art Forbes, Rotary Club of Providenciales president, said: “PCH is very special to the Rotary Club of Providenciales

and we are delighted to join in with our partners from Virginia in such a worthwhile project.”

Mrs Wake-Forbes thanked Mr Forbes and the entire Rotary Club for supporting PCH along with project coordinator and District 7610 international service director Janet Brown.

Ms Brown said she had a wonderful time with the children at PCH and added that these kinds of projects can generate interests and skills and bring green issues to the table.

Mrs Wake-Forbes also thanked Cesar Castillo of MEP Solutions and Environmental Arts and Ryan Jones for his gardening expertise and providing many of the seedlings.

She added: “We could not do all we have without the support of organisations like Rotary, our wonderful community and volunteers, and our visitors who are also very generous and caring.”

 Mums and Tots Dance Party classes are held every Saturday at The Athletic Club in Saltmills Plaza for mothers and their little ones.

Mothers, bring your little ones to dance, jump, twist and shake! Children have fun learning movement basics to fun music and mums get a light exercise while spending quality time.

Mums and Tots classes begin at 10am and cost just $10. Dads are welcome!

Call Shara Bowen on 244-1103 for more details.  Every Saturday from 11pm you can catch the Island Boys playing rake and scrape live at Calico Jacks.

The bar is located upstairs at Ports of Call in Grace Bay adjacent to the Seven Stars resort.

Sunday, May 1  Feeling lucky? Win cash at the Rotary Club’s weekly bingo night every Sunday from 7pm at Williams Auditorium.

Monday, May 2  Get rid of the Monday blues with an intense non-traditional aerobic routine with Anca Vasile.

The exciting class takes place 7pm at IGA Sports Centre and includes fun and interesting choreography.

Classes cost $12 for one or $100 for 11.  Girls and boys aged 11 to 19 years old are invited to take part in a fun singing group.

The TCI Youth Chorale rehearses every Monday at 6pm at the Edward C Gartland Youth Centre, downtown, Providenciales.

For more information call 331-7176.

Tuesday, May 3

 The Athletic Club in Saltmills Plaza will be hosting a free introductory Zumba class this Tuesday at 5.30pm.

Come along to learn more about the new exercise craze and enjoy a complimentary drink afterwards.  Come and hear the Island Boys duo play at Opus restaurant in Ocean Club East this Tuesday from 7.30pm to 10pm.  Step it up this Tuesday evening with a fun fitness class at IGA Sports Centre.

From 6.30pm you will be taken through a number of step combinations mixed with conditioning exercises like squats, push ups and triceps dips.

Classes cost $12 for one or $100 for 11.

Wednesday, May 4  Correy Forbes and DJ Cliff will be providing entertainment at Mango Reef Restaurant at the Alexandra Resort this evening.

Come along between 6.30pm and 9pm for some great island tunes.  Enjoy the easy listening sounds of live duo NaDa at the Regent Palms on Wednesdays from 7pm. Call 946-8666 for details.  Are you in need of inner peace?

Interested in a healthy lifestyle and a toned and flexible body?

Then you need David Bowen’s yoga classes at The Athletic Club in the Saltmills Plaza.

Come along on Monday, Wednesday or Friday at 7am, Tuesday and Thursday at 6.30pm or Saturday at 9am.

Call 941-8686 for more details.

Thursday, May 5  Burn off your week’s excesses with an energetic kickboxing class at IGA Sports Centre.

The class begins at 7pm and includes 45 minutes of kickboxing drills followed by 15 minutes of conditioning exercises.

Classes cost $12 for one or $100 for 11.  Celebrate good health with wellness coach Benneth Williams every Thursday evening.

Come along to Williams Block, suite number six, on Lower Bight Road, Providenciales, from 7pm.

There you will get a free wellness consultation and an hour of fun.

For more details call Benneth at 2460300 or email hls_com@yahoo.com

April 30 - May 6, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

13

NATIONAL

Provo resident wins luxury holiday ONE delighted TCI resident will be jetting out to Parrot Cay to spend three days at the luxury resort this month – all for the price of a $20 raffle ticket.

Tyler Dutton, an employee of Sport Nautique, scooped the top prize in the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund’s (TCRF) April competition.

He and a friend will be jetting off for a three-day, twonight stay in a beautiful garden view room at the exclusive resort.

Tyler’s $2,000 prize also includes daily complimentary breakfast, use of the tennis

courts, use of the gymnasium, use of non-motorised water sports and participation in scheduled daily activities such as yoga or Pilates.

Complimentary non-private transfers to and from either Provo International Airport or Leeward Marina were also provided in the package.

The winning name was drawn on Earth Day, April 22,

by Seven Stars resort waiter Williamson Rene.

Marine conservation organisation TCRF was founded in 2010 to support local education, research and conservation programmes.

Co-founder Don Stark explained: “I have been coming to the Turks and Caicos since 1993 and I have been impressed by the conservation efforts already in place here with the National Marine Parks system, but rapid development on the Islands is placing tremendous pressure on the marine environment.

“As one of the consistently highly rated dive destinations, snorkellers and scuba divers have a vested interest in seeing the reefs and related marine environments.”

So Don and his partner David Stone decided to set

Reviving classic reggae

By Rebecca Bird A VETERAN musician has created a new video for one of his 80s hits and released it on the internet in a bid to revive the classic reggae tune.

Neil Seymour, member of TCI three-piece Willin Prophets, embarked on the solo project earlier this month.

He told the Weekly News that he wrote the song ‘Pressure’ as a tribute to the day-to-day struggle of survival.

The lyrics tell the story of a jam session at his home studio that was cut prematurely short.

“I was rehearsing with my band one day and someone called the police on us,” he said.

“They knocked on the door and we couldn’t hear them, so they pulled on the power cord to get our attention.

“That’s one of the things that inspired me to write this song, along with the everyday pressure we go through as a people trying to make ends meet to survive.”

More than 20 years after it was first released and in a bid to draw more attention to the classic tune, Neil created a video to accompany the song.

“We just followed the events of the song and added corresponding video clips to follow so that it draws a relationship between the lyrics and the actions,” he explained.

The video, which can be found on youtube.com, features shots of the Turks and Caicos landscape, TCI police, and Neil.

Neil Seymour wrote the song ‘Pressure’ as a tribute to the day-to-day struggle of survival

Neil and his three brothers Leon, Vernon and the late Bernard Seymour were born in the Turks and Caicos Islands into a family of musicians.

At the age of 12 Neil started singing in a Baptist church choir and while in the boy scouts he learnt to play the trumpet, guitar, and the organ.

Through writing poems and performing in plays the youngster became comfortable being in the spotlight.

During 1980 and 1981 all four siblings moved to Inglewood, California, where they formed reggae band Willin Prophets.

In February 1982 they played their first concert at one of California’s largest music festivals ‘The Traditional Bob Marley Day Reggae Road Block’ at MacArthur Park.

Following the successful gig, that year they went on to perform at various festivals, clubs and campuses across California.

In 1983 the group made their commercial debut with the release of the singles ‘Innocent Man’ and ‘Unity’ and the album ‘Dreadness’.

In 1987 the band released their second album ‘Resurrection’which contained ‘Pressure’ and ‘Tribute to Jags McCartney’.

The album also contained the remix ‘Reggae Music’ which the group claims raised consciousness and spiritual energy throughout the TCI. Since the death of group member Bernard Seymour, the group has been using local talent to continue their music.

For more information on the Willin Prophets visit www. willinprophets.com and for information on Neil Seymour visit www.neilseymour.com “I am looking for some good sponsors who have the Islands’ best interests at heart and want to help the people to make it a better place,” Neil added.

up a fund that visitors could donate to in order to enhance the marine environment of the TCI. The TCRF has already accepted grant applications from individuals, groups and organisations.

And the team recently selected their first project - the refurbishment and replacement of snorkel trail markers on the reef in front of the Coral Gardens resort.

As well as running monthly competitions, to raise additional cash the group is offering visitors a gift in exchange for their contribution.

For $5 they will receive a wristband and for $10 they will get a plastic dive tag that can be attached to their scuba gear, bag or suitcase to demonstrate their support for the TCRF. Over 85 per cent of all funds raised through voluntary

TCRF’s David Stone, prize winner Tyler Dutton and Don Stark of the TCRF

contributions from divers and snorkellers visiting the Turks and Caicos Islands will go to the fund’s programmes.

For more information on

the projects funded by the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund and funding opportunities visit www.TCReef.tc or www.

TCReef.org.

14

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Lifestyle...

April 30 - May 6, 2011

fitness Tip 

How to avoid stiffness after exercise SORENESS after a trip to the gym can really feel like a setback. More than half the people who start an exercise programme quit within six months.

Some tend to overdo it early on, getting injured, or give up after not seeing immediate results.

Here are some tips to avoid the sore and stiffness after any workout.  1) People leading a sedentary lifestyle often throw themselves into a gruelling workout. This can make you not just overly fatigued but also sore and stiff. Plus it increases the risk of sudden heart attack. The key

Vinaigrette dressing

is to get in shape gradually.  2) Always begin and end each exercise session with a warm-up and a cool down. This helps prevent injury and soreness. A warm-up routine consists of five or so minutes of lowlevel aerobic exercises, followed by mild stretches during which your heart rate slowly increases and your muscles slowly get warm as the blood flow increases. Stretching should not be done when the muscles are cold.

To cool down, walk slowly until your heart rate is below 100 beats per minute (16-17 using a 10 second count). Skipping your cool down can sharply reduce your blood pressure, causing faintness and muscle cramps.

Stretching is appropriate for cool down as well.  3) About 20 per cent of weight training injuries involve the lower back. Proper training before attempting a new piece of equipment is imperative. Seek the advice of a trainer.  4) If exercising gives you

chest pain, irregular heartbeats, undue fatigue, nausea, unexpected breathlessness or light headedness, stop immediately and consult a healthcare professional.  5) Don’t exercise when you are fatigued or have a short-term illness like ‘flu or are recovering from some other ailment.  6) Wear proper shoes. They should support the ankle and provide cushioning. Socks are a necessity as well. Similarly, wear comfortable clothing that won’t bunch up or irritate your skin.  7) High-impact exercise like running can cause injuries from soreness in the shins to ringing in the ears. Invest in a pair of quality shoes.

Vary your training and alternate between easy and harder workouts.

Be careful to warm up, cool down and stretch.  8) Cross training regularly is beneficial. Switching from one activity to another helps prevent

Investing in a pair of good quality shoes for high impact exercise can help avoid injury.

boredom while different activities target slightly different muscle groups.

stomach. But do drink plenty of water before, during and after your workout.

 9) When it is very hot outside, exercise in the early morning or indoors. Overheating or hyperthermia can be a serious problem in hot weather. If you are experiencing light headedness, hyperventilation, fatigue, a failure to sweat or loss of concentration, stop immediately and rest in a cool place and drink a lot of fluid.

 11) While doing strength training exercises, breathe slowly and rhythmically. Also breathe when stretching. Hold the stretch for 10 to 60 seconds and exhale while moving into the stretch.

 10) Do not exercise on a full

 12) Expecting immediate results will only discourage you.

It takes about 12 weeks to see measurable changes.

health Tip 

AS LONG as our grocery stores are stocked with salt-infused food, the easiest way to control sodium intake is to make your own food.

Try whipping up your own salad dressing for a start.

Ingredients:

• Half cup wine vinegar • 1.5 cups olive oil • Quarter cup lemon juice • 1.5 tsp Dijon mustard • 3 garlic cloves (use them whole or minced) • basil (fresh, if available) • light salt and pepper to taste

Method:

• Put all the ingredients in a jar and shake hard. Refrigerate.

• Dressing can be used on a variety of salads including tossed green salad, red potato salad, shredded carrot salad or cucumber and tomato salad.

Salt – how much is too much?

LET me say a big thank you to my readers again and how pleased I am to continue to receive commendations from many of you who share a few minutes of your time in reading my researched health tip column.

One of many reasons I continue to do the research is because it is expanding my own knowledge and it is assisting me with my personal health and encouraging me to be more conscious about my eating habits.

This week I would like for us to go back to the days of old when our foreparents taught us about the preservation of meat and the importance of the mineral salt in our diet.

According to our latest edition of Destination Turks and Caicos Islands, Mr Sherlin Williams, former

By Phillip Simmons president of the Turks & Caicos Historical Society, says: “The Turks & Caicos Islands are unlike any British overseas territory. They are marked by change and many changes resulted from the substance that gave birth to the TCI as a country – salt.”

Arawak Indians sold the nation’s salt, the country was divided for it, and wars were fought over it. Slaves, who played a major role in the nation’s development and who did not receive emancipation here until August 1834, also worked in its salt ponds. It is no secret that the Turks

The salt industry thrived in the TCI in the 18th and 19th century.

& Caicos Islanders were called ‘salt rakers’.

Sodium is a major mineral found in the fluid surrounding the cells in your body. It’s necessary to regulate blood pressure and fluid volume.

Sodium also helps to maintain pH

balance. Your muscles and nervous system also need sodium to function properly.

The most common form of sodium is table salt, however sodium occurs continued 

April 30 - May 6, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

15

Lifestyle...

How does your garden grow With our green-fingered guru Denis Belanger

GARDENING 

The joy of papaya PAPAYA tree care is minimal, they are not fussy plants. Papayas come in three types; Hawaiian (carica papaya), Mexican (carica pubescens) and babaco (carica pentagona).

The Hawaiian varieties do not grow taller than eight feet and are easiest to harvest.

A ripe fruit has yellow skin, the inside either deep orange or pink in colour and weighs not more than two pounds. Mexican papaya fruit is as large as one’s foot. It is easier to grow but less sweet than Hawaiian papaya.

A papaya tree can be grown either from the seeds or from nursery plants. Plants can be male, female or (certain Hawaiian varieties) can produce flowers of both sexes. The leaves are palmately-lobed and shortlived, about six to eight months.

When growing papaya, do not expect the female tree to bear fruits if you do not also have a male. A male papaya tree does not bear fruits but helps the females around him to bear by pollinating them.

A ratio of at least one male plant to ten female plants is required.

The inflorescence is a an elongated, branched cyme in male plants and a much reduced cyme for bisexual and female plants.

Salt – how much is ... continued

naturally in most foods. Dairy products, beets, and celery are all significant sources of sodium.

Sodium is added to many processed foods in the form of additives that are used as preservatives and flavour enhancers. Most diets contain more than enough sodium, so deficiency is rare.

Adults should eat no more than six grams of salt a day – that’s about one full teaspoon.

Children should eat less still.

The typical American diet contains twice the recommended limit. Eating a diet that is high in sodium is associated with high blood pressure which means you are more likely to develop heart disease or have a stroke.

An excessive intake can also lead to calcium loss which increases the risk of osteoporosis.

NATURE SPLENDOR

For all your landscaping, installation or garden maintenance needs, please call or write for a free estimate: 332-3381 or naturesplendor@yahoo.com

Papaya is a polygamous species with three basic plant types. Male (staminate) plants, in which small, tubular, yellow flowers possessing only 10 anthers are held in cymes at the ends of long peduncles.

Female (pistillate) plants with large yellow to whitish flowers which possess a large, superior ovary which is held on a much reduced cyme in the leaf axils along the trunk.

Bisexual (hermaphroditic) plants possess perfect flowers held on a much reduced cyme in the leaf axils along the trunk.

Spring is the best time to plant new papaya plants. Papaya tree care involves careful watering. Papaya trees need lots of water during hot weather as they have large leaves.

But if you give the tree too much water the fragile roots tend to rot.

Papaya plants should be planted in full sun (less sunlight means less sweet fruits) and at least 10 to 20ft away from other plants, buildings and power lines.

In general, planting two to three papaya plants seven to 12ft away from each other will ensure that at least one will be fruitful and it will also facilitate fertilising and watering.

Compost fertiliser is best as the

plant grows. It is best not to plant them where they will be exposed to heavy wind. The root systems are not that strong and the plants can topple in strong winds.

Papaya is mainly propagated by seed. To propagate by seed, remove the seeds from an elongated ripe fruit and place in a colander. Press the seeds against the side of the colander to break the sac surrounding the seed (this sac inhibits seed germination).

Rinse seeds thoroughly and place on a paper towel to dry (not in the sunlight). Once seeds are dry they may be placed in a plastic bag and stored in the refrigerator for several years for later use.

With age, either the number of fruits decline or the quality will deteriorate. It is ideal to plant new papaya trees every two years so that you get a continuous yield.

Papaya fruit are commonly used as a ripe fresh fruit alone, in fruit salads, drinks and desserts.

Fruit is also dried, candied and made into pastes, jellies and jams.

Papaya fruit is low in calories and high in potassium and vitamin A, C and E. It also helps in digestion due to the presence of a proteindissolving enzyme.

Money Tip

Be a smart driver WITH soaring gas prices – increased further still by the recent tax hike – the money in your wallet may feel it’s evaporating quicker than ever.

Here are some ways to spend less money on gas and reduce your overall fuel consumption.

Limit your driving. Ideas include carpooling, combining trips and taking the first parking spot you find.

Fill the tank full. The more money you try to save by adding $10 today and then $20 tomorrow will be wasted since each time you will have to travel to the station and wait for a pump. Instead, do it all at once to save time and money.

Don’t fill up before you are down to a quarter tank. This can extend your gas because you are hauling a lighter fuel load. But remember that running on empty can damage your car.

Avoid idling. While idling, your car gets exactly 0 miles per gallon while starting the car uses the same amount as idling for six seconds.

Idling with the air conditioning on also uses extra fuel. Also, avoid going so fast that you have to brake for someone. Whenever you brake, you waste the gas it took to get going that fast.

Drive at a consistent speed.

Avoid quick acceleration and hard

Don’t bag it Plant new papaya trees every two years to ensure a continuous yield.

braking. Cruise control will keep you at a constant speed, even when going up and down hills.

Maintain a safe following distance. Don’t stick to the bumper of the car directly in front of you.

You will brake more and accelerate more to keep that unnecessary and dangerous narrow gap.

Slow down. Go as slow as traffic and your schedule will allow. The most efficient speed is your car’s minimum speed in its highest gear, since this provides the best ‘speed per RPM’ ratio.

This is usually about 45 to 55 miles per hour.

Take off slowly from a full stop. This is one adjustment that will have dramatic effects on your gas mileage; don’t tear off from a T-junction or roundabout.

Park in the shade. Gasoline evaporates right out of your tank, and it does so faster when you park directly in the sun. Parking in the shade also keeps it cooler inside, and you will need less A/C to cool off when you get back in.

Avoid using A/C when driving.

Open the windows instead. A/C is known to use up almost 10 per cent of the fuel you put into your car.

Keep tyres properly inflated.

Buy a hybrid for immediate savings at the pump.

CONSIDER the environment when shopping for fresh fruit and veg.

Does that bunch of bananas or sweet pepper really need to be put in a plastic bag?

This week’s tip is courtesy of the TCI Environment Club which meets at the Environment Centre in Lower Bight Road on the first Thursday of each month at 6pm.

16

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Barbados PM says Myrie can return to identify assaulter BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — Prime Minister Freundel Stuart said surveillance cameras will be installed at the Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA) as Barbados continues to deal with the controversy sparked by allegations by a Jamaican woman that she had been sexually abused by immigration officials on her arrival here last month.

In his first televised news conference with the state-owned Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) earlier this week, Stuart, who became head of government following the death of Prime Minister David Thompson last October, said that 20-year-old Shanique Myrie is free to return to Barbados and identify the person who assaulted her.

“There will be cameras put where there are none now so that in the event of a recurrence. Camera evidence should be available to confirm the allegations or contradict it. There has been a very persistent issue relating to the installation of cameras at our ports of entry and one of the questions I asked in the meeting I convened was whether the existence of cameras would

In last six months:

DR receives bulk of US deported Caribbean criminals THE Dominican Republic has received over half of the criminals deported back to the Caribbean in the last six months by the United States of America, according to information released by the U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

A total of 2,038 persons were deported to the Caribbean, droplets of the 86,469 received by Latin America during the same period.

The criminals were returned to their country of birth because they were migrants who were convicted of a crime.

Jamaica was second in the Caribbean with 528, followed by

Shanique Myrie’s alleged assault has increased tension between Jamaica and Barbados

have played any role in the instant resolution of this matter and there was a resounding consensus that had cameras been in the right place there would be no scope for speculation,” said Stuart.

Jamaican foreign minister, Ken Baugh, has said that the matter could be headed to the Trinidad-based Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ)

if Bridgetown and Kingston cannot work out their differences.

Last month Jamaica sent a high level delegation to Bridgetown for talks with Barbadian authorities on the issue after Myrie said she was subjected to an invasive cavity search by a female immigration officer when she arrived in Barbados on March 14. (Jamaicanobserver.com)

A REDJet airplane

April 30 - May 6, 2011

Trinidad and Tobago with 125, The Bahamas with 65 and Guyana with 64.

Cuba received 20 in the past six months; Barbados 11; Dominica 10; St. Lucia seven and Antigua five. Four persons were sent back to Bermuda while St. Kitts received three, while two each were sent to Suriname, the British Virgin Islands and Cayman Islands.

The figures show that Anguilla and the Turks and Caicos, received one criminal deportee each.

As of late last month Mexico had received a whopping 70,874 deportees to lead Latin America.

Latin America and Caribbean states to create new regional bloc CARACAS (VENEZUELA): Latin American and Caribbean Foreign Affairs ministers are meeting in anticipation of the presidential summit scheduled for July 5 in Caracas when a new regional integration organisation will be born - the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC).

CELAC will include the 33 countries from Latin America and the Caribbean.

The organisation is defined by Argentine Foreign Ministry officials as an “initiative to address and coordinate the different integration processes and regional development policies”.

Latin American and Caribbean leaders will be meeting in July, on the 200th independence anniversary of Venezuela to agree on the statutes and founding charter of the new

group which aims of becoming an Organisation of American States (OAS) - without the United States and Canada, sources said.

“The new entity will bring together all Latin American and Caribbean countries with the purpose of promoting political dialogue and cooperation for development”, a Brazilian Foreign Affairs ministry official in Brasilia said.

CELAC will also debate the ‘democratic clause’ and take notice on the implementation of the Montego Bay Action Plan which was ratified at the Cancun summit last Feb. The different organisations also participating in CELAC’s formation include the Latin American MERCOSUR MARKET BLOC, ALADI, SELA, CARICOM (Caribbean bloc) and SICA, sources said. (Bernama.com)

The Bahamas’s murder count (for 2011) was pushed to 42 over the holiday weekend, after a local rap artist was shot and killed.

The victim, identified as Kirk Nash Hall is also known by the stage name Nash Cashes.

The incident reportedly occurred shortly before 2:00 a.m. on Saturday at Cowpen Road west of Baillou Hill Road.

According to police reports, a group of men were seen arguing

near a dark coloured Nissan Maxima prior to the victim being shot.

A short time later, police were called to a vehicle fire in bushes at Sir Lynden Pindling Estates.

Upon extinguishing the blaze, police discovered the vehicle to be a Nissan Maxima.

Police believe the burnt vehicle and the murder at Cowpen Road are connected. (Jonesbahamas. com)

Low-fare regional airline fails Rap artist is 42nd to secure T&T’s approval murder in the Bahamas

NEW LOW-COST airline REDjet blamed a “breakdown of communications and understanding” for not securing approval to enter the Trinidad and Tobago market. The airline is now appealing to the T&T government, and Barbados, where they are based, to assist in sorting out the problem issues.

REDJet is scheduled to begin its initial flights on May 8, offering base fares from US$9.99 one-way, excluding applicable taxes and other charges, between Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Guyana and Barbados.

Questions as to who provided permission for the airline to operate in Trinidad & Tobago were recently raised by that country’s Transport and Works Minister Jack Warner.

In response, REDJet pointed to the approval granted by the Air Transport Authority in Barbados under the Air Services Agreement between the two countries to conduct current commercial activities.

The airline maintained that it had acted in accordance with T&T’s procedures, laws and regulations, and also that payments had not been

accepted for any flight bookings, pending receipt of the required permits.

A T&T transportation official indicated that it was “highly unlikely” that the May 8 permit date could be complied with, given the amount of work that had to be done to review REDjet’s safety and security standards compliance.

According to REDjet, it has received air transport licenses from Guyana and Barbados to operate flights into Trinidad. (thestkittsnevisobserver.com)

April 30 - May 6, 2011

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

17

Caribbean tsunami warning system coming

The wedding of William and Kate has the entire globe abuzz.

Sixteen Caribbean leaders to attend Royal Wedding ACCORDING to the Royal Wedding list released by Clarence House – the official residence of The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall, 16 Caribbean leaders and Heads of State will attend the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton on Friday.

Among the visiting dignitaries to attend the ceremony at Westminster Abbey will be St. Kitts and Nevis Governor-General Sir Cuthbert Sebastian, the Prime Ministers of the Bahamas, Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines; the Premiers of Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands and the Cayman Islands, and Montserrat’s Chief

DR first lady declines presidential candidate position THE Dominican Republic First lady has expressed her intentions not to run for the presidency after it was offered by the ruling party.

Margarita Cedeno, the wife of incumbent president Leonel Fernandez is reported to have told the Dominican people via a television and radio message that: “I don’t believe the presidency is my ultimate goal.”

Two weeks ago, Fernandez’s party said it had approved Cedeno as a contender in internal elections to determine who will be the party’s nominee for the May 2012 election.

Fernandez is not running for a third term.

The 45-year-old Cedeno suggested she declined the nomination because she did not want to divide the party.

Minister.

The Governors-General of Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Jamaica, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines will also be there.

The noted regional leaders will join the approximately 1,900 guests at what is considered to be the most important social gathering in the U.K. for the year.

It is expected that upwards of two billion viewers will tune in to various networks across the world to see Prince William and Middleton exchange vows.

That is more than twice the viewing audience who took in Prince Charles’ and Lady Diana Spencer’s marriage in 1981. (thestkittsnevisobserver.com)

CUT HERE

A CARIBBEAN tsunami warning centre is about three years away from becoming a reality, but disaster managers in the region are pressing ahead with plans to educate the population about the devastating tidal waves.

Representatives of government entities and the private sector discussed activities to make the region more tsunami-ready at a workshop in Kingston on April 19.

Richard Thomson, deputy director general at the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) said the warning centre, to be based in Puerto Rico, should have been established last year, but is now scheduled to become operational in 2014.

“It (the centre) should have been up and running in 2010 but due to budgetary constraints it is slated for 2014. It might be pushed further back because we are acting in a very tight economic climate, although it is extremely important to have it up and running in very short order,” he said.

Thomson was speaking at the tsunami and other coastal hazards workshop and public awareness campaign launch, held at the Courtleigh Hotel.

Meanwhile, the ODPEM boss noted the four key elements of a tsunami warning system as: • monitoring and detection, which involves the collection and interpretation of data from sensors; • hazard management and assessment; • dissemination and communication of warning information; and • public awareness and education.

A tsunami is a series of ocean waves which cause widespread devastation on land. They can reach

heights of 30 metres and speeds of up to 600 miles per hour or that of a jet airplane.

They are typically caused by underwater earthquakes, landslides, volcanic eruptions, as well as the melting of ice-capped mountains.

Thomson said over the past 500 years, about 80 per cent of tsunamis occur in the south Pacific, while 10 per cent happen in the Caribbean.

He said that although the warning centre had not yet been established, plans for a warning system were underway.

“Under the auspices of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC), the intergovernmental co-ordination group for the Caribbean is currently co-ordinating the establishment of a tsunami and other coastal hazard warning system throughout the Caribbean,” he said.

In the event of a tsunami, the telecommunications companies such LIME, Digicel and Flow will be used to transit SMS messages, Thomson disclosed.

He added that there were plans to engage all coastal communities to make them more tsunami-ready.

“We’re planning to have all the hotels and communities on board that once the warning is out they should make the necessary plans to protect themselves,” he said.

Cassie Ann James, senior programme officer at the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), in her remarks, noted that the region had experienced several tsunamis, including events in Jamaica in 1692 and 1780, and in the Dominican Republic as recently as 1946.

She added that coastal areas would be the worst affected.

“Our vulnerability in the Caribbean is magnified by the fact that the concentration of our public infrastructure, business infrastructure, housing and more is centred around the coastline. We, therefore, need to take steps to protect those assets and the lives of our population,” she said.

James recalled that following the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004, CDEMA was mandated by the Caribbean Community (Caricom) to spearhead initiatives in the region for such an event.

She noted that in 2008, the United Nations Agency for International Development (USAID) provided US$474,000 to support a US$800,000 tsunami project in the region. James said last Wednesday’s workshop and the public education products displayed were funded by the Australian Government and the European Union.

She noted that the campaign was directed at three main groups -media, tourism and youth.

Head of the Earthquake Unit at the University of the West Indies, Mona, Dr Lyndon Brown said more commitment is needed by regional governments to prepare the region for a tsunami. This, he said, was despite a full-scale simulation of a tsunami hitting the Caribbean which took place on March 23, with 34 countries participating.

Donna Redman, director of special projects at Barbados-based communications company Acute Vision Inc, introduced a number of posters, billboards, flyers and television ads to be used throughout the Caribbean to educate the public on what to do when a tsunami is coming. The theme of the campaign is “Don’t wait! Run to higher ground!” (Jamaicanobserver.com)

18

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

Charming Changes and Natural Wellness Products presents a

New Look, New Attitude and a Whole New You for 2011!!!

(Exclusive Distributor for SliMor + Acai, SliMor, SliMax, FenuMor, MultiMor, Colonex, Nutricin, Mas Xtreme and Passion Power)

AVAILABLE AT THESE STORES Providenciales Graceway IGA Supermarket ( Leeward Highway) Best 4 Less Liquor Store ( Grace Bay) Discovery Land ( Lower Bight Road) Grace Bay Pharmacy ( Neptune Plaza) Flamingo Pharmacy (Graceway Plaza) Island Pharmacy (Menzies Building) NHIP Pharmacy ( Lightbourn’s Plaza) Sunset Pharmacy Plus (Royal Palm Plaza) Seaview Provo (Rock Plaza) Northside Quick Stop (Blue Hills) Naeo’s Smart ( Five Cays Road) Pumpy’s Bar ( Five Cays Road) Grand Turk Dot’s Food Fair ( Pond Street)

April 30 - May 6, 2011

941-5000 343-6433 946-8242 941-4527 946-4150 941-7790 941-3751 941-3650 242-8509 946-2324

J & J Supermarket ( West Road) Club Ranking ( West Road) Grace Bay Pharmacy ( Cee’s Plaza) Ruth’s Beauty Salon ( Backsalina) Bridging The Gap Professional Services (Moxey Folly) Faye Forbes ( Breezy Bay)

247-3577 247-3577 946-1266 946-2294 946-2899 241-2029

South Caicos Kisa Services (Stubbs Road) Sunset Café & Grill (Opposite Dock Landing) North Caicos T’s Grocery Store (Bottle Creek) Scorpio XIV Bar ( Kew) Charmaine Clarke (Sandy Point)

946-7284 241-7651 231-3919

BCS/CS – GRACE BAY CAR RENTAL

VACANCIES OPERATIONS SUPERVISOR

Responsibilities: • Manage and develop reporting staff members • Monitor, measure, and report on operational issues, opportunities, development plans and achievements within agreed formats and time-scales • Contribute to the evaluation and development of operational strategy and performance reviews with the executive team • Identification of training needs and the development and delivery of training courses and workshops, develop the organization’s training function and ensure it supports the aims and objectives of the organization and service teams • Manage the accounting systems and produce financial forecasts for the executive team Qualifications: • Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from a recognized University and/or • Minimum of 5 to 7 years experience in a management and staff development role within the automotive industry • Excellent command of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook also of QuickBooks and Rent Centric Software • For insurance reasons applicants must be 25 years of age or older with an accident free record • All candidates must submit a police record with their applications

COMPUTER TECHNOLOGIST

Responsibilities • Build and maintain computer network, phone networks and security networks • Maintaining computer networks must include the ability to network inter-office and external computer for the purpose of data transfer and sharing and to design custom systems and applications • Manage and supervise computer technology department and provide strategies for the adoption of future technologies to enhance cost effectiveness and operational efficiencies Qualifications: • Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science from a recognized University and/or • Minimum of 2 to 5 years experience in activities related to those listed above • Excellent command of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook also QuickBooks accounting software • For insurance reasons applicant must be 25 years of age or older with an accident free record • All candidates must submit a police record with their application

CAR WASHER/ LABORER

Responsibilities: • Operate a variety of vehicle detailing technologies including professional upholstery equipment and speed buffers • Ability to work Sunday’s and holidays Qualifications: • For insurance reasons applicants must be 25 years of age or older with an accident free record • All candidates must submit a police record with their application

NIGHT AUDITOR

Responsibilities: • Run all night audit reports and present to General Manager • Contribute to the evaluation and development of operational strategy, financial controls, and performance reviews with the executive team • Monitor financial spending and audit all business units within the firm • Assist the Operations Manager in the identification of training needs and the development and delivery of training courses and workshops • Other accounting duties to be determined by the General Manager Qualifications: • Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized University • Minimum of 3 to 5 years experience in the automotive industry related to the above description of responsibilities • Excellent command of QuickBooks Accounting Software • Excellent command of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook • For insurance reasons applicants must be 25 years of age or older with an accident free record

All candidates must submit a police record with their application Email: branditz@yahoo.com BELONGERS PREFERRED

FAX: (649) 946-4661

Paralegal Job Description Summary:

The successful applicant for this job will perform a variety of paralegal activities related to assisting attorneys and administrative professionals in various aspects of legal work, including researching laws, investigating facts, and preparing legal documents.

The position requires:

Minimum five years Experience as a paralegal Strong computer and research skills Knowledge of legal documents and forms Ability to work with minimum supervision Knowledge of legal terminology and style Good communication and organization skills Previous experience in real estate an asset Closing date for applications: Apply with resume, quoting reference “Paralegal” to Deveraux C. Malcolm MISICK & STANBROOK P.O. Box 127, Providenciales fax: 946 4734. E-Mail: info@misickstanbrook.tc

SENIOR MANAGER/ POLICY AND RISK ANALYTICS Applications are invited for this position of Senior Manager, policy and risk analytics Location: Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands

Educational Requirements – Qualified applicant must have a Bachelor in Business Administration or higher from a recognized North American, European or Asian University Business experience requirements – applicants should have a minimum of 10 years in a broad range of financial management roles at a senior level.

Experience in the following areas would be a significant advantage: financial and management accounting, corporate structuring, regulatory reporting, strategic financial and business planning ability to interpret complex financials.

Belongers only need apply Please submit applications to: Human Resources. P.O. Box 270 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands

Is looking for a

Domestic Worker To work 6 days per week.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 946-5199

April 30 - May 6, 2011 PHONE: (649) 946-4664

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Gold Specialist Needed MINIMUM 5 YEARS EXPERIENCE REQUIRED FOR DEMANDING BUSINESS. STARTING SALARY $400.00 PLUS COMMISSION. PLEASE SEND RESUMES TO US GOLD LTD. P.O. BOX 127 RICHMOND HOUSE, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS.

at the National Health Insurance Board

PRINCIPAL FUNCTION:

KITCHEN HELP

REQUIRED

6916

Full-time days and nights to wash pots and dishes general cleaning and some preparation work salary $6.00 per hour.

Wards Consultancy On behalf of our clients Mama’s Kitchen, Yoshis Restaurant, Coyaba – Taun Restaurant, Bridge Benjamin is looking to fill the following positions:-

Kitchen Helper

– to work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour

Mason

CONTACT 941-7700

6923

– to work 5 days per week salary $6.00 per hour

SALARY NEGOTIABLE AND BASED ON EXPERIENCE

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

The duties and responsibilities of the position of the CEO are equally important and critical to the success of the organization.

The percentages listed following each primary responsibility do not reflect importance, but the approximate percentage of time expected to be devoted to the responsibility: 1) Provides strategic and operational leadership and direction for the organization (10%) 2) Directly, and through subordinate management, manages the activities of the staff of the organization (30%) 3) Maintains an effective relationship with the Board of Directors (10%) 4) Ensures that the organization is structured to maximize its ability to deliver its services (10%) 5) Develops and maintains strategic and operational relationships at the national and local levels that will benefit the organization and support its mission (40%)

PROFESSIONAL/TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

1) Advanced reading and writing skills, verbal and written communications skills, knowledge of management, finance and other general knowledge typically acquired through completion of a Masters Degree programme.

2) High level of expertise in all facets of social security and community health insurance systems, including laws and regulations, standards and protocols, organization and management techniques and other industry knowledge and skills typically acquired through a combination of formal training and practical experience.

3) Ability to communicate effectively with practitioners and understand how to reconcile the needs of the practitioners with the financial prerogatives and business processes of the organization.

4) Knowledge of accounting and financial analysis practices sufficient to understand financial reports and the impact of financial performance on the organization’s operations.

5) Computer skills including the ability to prepare correspondence and reports in Microsoft Word, and summarize and report data in Excel spreadsheets.

1) Demonstrates a high level of leadership skill and dedication, and the ability to motivate individuals and groups to act in the best interests of contributors and the organization.

2) Demonstrates an appreciation and respect for the cultural diversity of the contributors and service partners of the National Health Insurance Board.

3) Demonstrates an appreciation for small island settings and the challenges it brings in providing health insurance.

4) High level of ability to balance multiple and diverse projects of great significance, prioritize work and manage time for others.

5) Ability to establish and manage internal project budgets, timelines and Board of Directors expectations.

6) Demonstrates critical thinking and sound judgment in making decisions that impact the organization.

7) Fosters positive interactions among employees; acts as an example for others 8) Demonstrates high level professional image, maturity, self-confidence and positive attitude; acts as a model for others.

9) Demonstrates an appreciation of the challenges associated with a mixed health economy embracing inter-island and international insurance and re-insurance regimes, covering South Florida, the Caribbean and the UK.

– to work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour

2 GARDNERS 2 BEACH ATTENDANTS 2 HOUSEKEEPERS

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is responsible for the overall leadership and management of The National Health Insurance Plan, ensuring the implementation of the mission of the organization and the strategic and operational plans approved by the Board of Directors.

GENERAL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

2 Waitresses

WINDSONG

Vanancy

Chief Executive Officer

“INSTANT CASH” AND “NOBODY PAYS MORE”

Contact 241-2866

FAX: (649) 946-4661

Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons for the position of

WITH TWO LOCATIONS TO BETTER SERVE YOU FIVE CAYS ELECTRONICS AND OUR NEWEST LOCATION FINBAR GRANT’S TEXACO GAS STATION, LEEWARD HIGHWAY

Call: 941-3044

19

COMMUNICATIONS SKILLS

1) Articulate in speech; communicates in a clear, fact-based manner.

2) Writes clearly, concisely and correctly when presenting findings in reports and correspondence.

3) Effectively and concisely communicates complex information.

4) Communicates effectively with external audiences, including media outlets and public policy makers.

5) Motivates management and employees to improve the organization’s processes and performance.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Applicant must be willing to travel at short notice using all forms of public transportation.

Preference will be given to Belongers with the required qualifications and experience.

Submissions to be lodged by close of business on Friday 6th May 2010

Salary range $ 100,000 to $ 130,000 per annum All resumes should be sent to Mr. John T. Smith, Chairman National Health Insurance Board Aviation House, Providenciales Email: johntsmith@tciairports.com

20

Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

April 30 - May 6, 2011

Arnold to play the Terminator once again Beenie warns Barbados to SYLVESTER STALLONE spent nearly a decade making straightto-DVD wrecks like “Shade” and “D-Tox” before finally acquiescing to his fans and playing, once again, his two most iconic characters, Rocky and Rambo.

Arnold Schwarzenegger spent nearly a decade trying to fix the decrepit state of California, which might have even been worse than “Avenging Angelo.” Now that he is returning to acting, it looks like he’s gonna go the Stallone route.

Deadline reported last night that the long-awaited comeback project for Schwarzenegger will be ... “The Terminator,” again. Arnold’s agents are out shopping a package that involve Arnold teaming with “Fast Five” director Justin Lin to bring the T-800 back to the big screen. They don’t have a script, they don’t have a target date and they don’t even have a firm grasp on who owns the Terminator franchise ... but they have Arnold willing to play the part again.

That’s enough.

Schwarzenegger had been eyeing several comeback roles after his years as governor, including, intriguingly, “Last Stand” for director Kim Ji-Woon. But considering how

stop pressuring Jamaicans

Arnold Schwarzenegger said he will be back in another Terminator movie.

long it has been since he was a topof-the-line movie star, and how much the industry has changed since then, he appears to have decided to return with a safer bet.

The legitimate question arises: Uh, isn’t Schwarzenegger, who will be 64 this summer, a little old to be playing the Terminator? Stallone is a year older, but Rocky and

Rambo are live human beings who age; the Terminator is a robot who, presumably, wouldn’t be modeled after an elderly person. As IFC’s Matt Singer points out, Schwarzenegger looked a little old to be playing the Terminator when he last did eight years ago; how can he possibly be a bionic killing machine today? (blog. movies.yahoo.com)

DANCEHALL deejay Beenie Man has warned immigration officials in that country to stop pressuring Jamaicans, reports the Barbados Nation.

“Ease up Jamaican. Stop pressure Jamaican,” he said from the stage at the Reggae Beach Party in Brandons Beach, St Michael last Sunday.

In reference to the ongoing dispute about alleged mistreatment of Jamaicans by Barbados immigration, the entertainer — real name Moses Davis — claimed that several of his friends had similar experiences.

“Sometime you get fed up ah one ting, yuh know. Cause you have been all over de world and den sometime you doan really need to come to Barbados. The immigration need to think twice. I have friends who come over here and end up in jail fi four days fi no reason,” he stated.

He added that he had also been arrested on his last visit to Barbados but that he bore no grudge.? “vibes nice and de people dem enjoy demself and me like that.

Thank you Barbados,” he said.??

(Jamaicanobserver.com)

Beenie Man tells Barbados to “stop pressure Jamaican”

Eva Mendes

Eva Mendes doesn’t need marriage

Eva Mendes has called marriage an “unnecessary” tradition.

Although the ‘Last Night’ actress has been dating Peruvian filmmaker George Augusto for almost a decade she has never felt the need to walk down the aisle, and now says she thinks people only partake in the “very old tradition” because it is expected of them.

She told HollywoodLife.com: “I just don’t think marriage is necessary, as necessary as society makes it.

“And I don’t have a negative point of view on it. I just think it’s a very old tradition and if you look back to what marriage symbolises in the first place ... it has nothing to do with why we get married today.”

The 37-year-old beauty has spoken of her indifference to the institution before, calling it “boring”, and also revealed she feels no pressure to become a mother.

She said: “I don’t know if I want children, but the idea of marriage sounds very boring to me. I have to be honest.”

Mendes also insisted she’s a romantic and enjoys going to her friends’ weddings but gets a thrill from refusing to become a bride herself because it makes her feel rebellious.

She explained: “I am extremely romantic but I think there is that little rebel inside me that is antiestablishment. It’s just one more fun thing I can rebel against.” (tvnz. co.nz)

April 30 - May 6, 2011

Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Turks&CaicosIslandsRedCross

A one-night-only showing of Katie Holmes was offered a public apology by the publication

Star Magazine: Katie Holmes is not a drug addict STAR MAGAZINE just issued a MASSIVE mea culpa to Katie Holmes -- publishing an apology on the COVER of its latest issue ... after the tabloid printed a headline suggesting Katie was a drug addict.

Katie filed a $50 million defamation lawsuit against the magazine last month, claiming Star’s January headline -- “ADDICTION NIGHTMARE! Katie DRUG SHOCKER! -- was “untrue, unethical and unlawful.”

Katie’s rep tells TMZ, the lawsuit is now water under the

bridge ... that it’s been settled ... and Star’s publisher American Media even made a “substantial” donation to Katie’s charity.

As for Star’s in-mag apology -- it reads in part, “Star did not intend to suggest that Ms. Holmes was a drug addict or was undergoing treatment for a drug addiction.

Star apologises to Ms. Holmes for any misperception ...”

Katie released her own statement today, saying, “I’m pleased that this lawsuit could be resolved amicably and accept American Media’s apology.” (tmz.com)

Usher and Rihanna has been spending time with each other of recent.

Rihanna out on a date with Usher HOLLYWOOD -- Rihanna reportedly went on a date with Usher recently.

The two singers enjoyed spending time with one another at the Coachella music festival in Los Angeles last weekend and decided to see each other again in New York a few days later.

A source close to Usher said the pair have been friendly for a long time and have shared some “passionate kisses.”

They told The Sun

newspaper: “They had a really good time together last weekend and wanted to see each other again somewhere private straight after. They’ve known each other for a long time but it’s always been bad timing... There’s definitely a spark between them. It would have been too obvious to go somewhere in LA and they were both going back to New York for work commitments.” (msn.com)

L’Raye Cinema Thursday, 5th May 2011 7:00 pm – Complimentary Drink

8:00 pm – movie

Tickets $20.00 (includes raffle draw) Call 941 8056 or 244 0318 Proceeds to Turks and Caicos Islands Red Cross Week

21

22

Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Diana Ross to get custody of Michael Jackson’s children DIANA ROSS will get custody of Michael Jackson’s children if their grandmother Katherine Jackson dies.

Although Prince Michael I, 14, Paris, 13, and nine-year-old Prince Michael II, also known as Blanket, are now in the custody of Katherine following Michael’s death in July 2009, the 67-year-old soul singer was named in his will as a guardian

and will take responsibility for them if anything happens to his mother.

A source told RadarOnline.com: “Diana has made no moves whatsoever not to fulfil her role that Michael intended for her. Michael didn’t trust anyone in his family besides, his mother, to raise the children. Michael loved Diana and chose her for a very specific reason.”

Although the Thriller singer

wanted his 80-year-old mother - who will turn 81 on May 4 and currently has a live-in carer - to care for his children, he was aware this would not be a long-term solution and so named Diana as a second guardian.

The source added: “Katherine is a very doting, loving grandmother.

She just isn’t getting any younger and that is why Michael named a second guardian.”

Michael Jackson’s children, Prince Michael Jackson and Paris Jackson.

April 30 - May 6, 2011

April 30 - May 6, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

23

24

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

April 30 - May 6, 2011

LUMBER & PLYWOOD NOW IN STOCK

VERY COMPETITVE PRICES

GET A QUOTE TODAY 649-339-HOME (4663) SALES@KBHOMECENTER.COM SPECIAL ORDER SERVICE AVAILABLE WEEKLY RE-STOCK

CEDAR, CYPRUS, BIRCH, SYP, MAPLE, DECK …

YOU NAME IT

SERVING PROVO & GRAND TURK

BUILDING MATERIALS – TILES – KITCHEN CABINETS – VANITIES – PLUMBING & HEATING – ELECTRICAL – LUMBER – PLYWOOD – ROOFING – INSULATION – APPLIANCES – ELECTRONICS – FURNITURE – HOME WARE – BED & LINEN – OFFICE SUPPLIES – TOILETRIES – POWER & HAND TOOLS – FENCING – RAILINGS – AUTOMOBILE ACCESSORIES – DOORS & WINDOWS – NAILS & SCREWS – LIGHTING – HARDWARE – LAWN & GARDEN – PAINT & SUNDRIES

PROVIDENCIALES

GRAND TURK

Leeward Highway, PO Box 1151 T: 339-HOME HOME (4663) F: 941-8155

Airport Road 946-2655 Krazy Bargains, T: 946

Krazy Bargains South dock road T: 941-4070

www.kbhomecenter.com

“build with us”

Opening Hours Mon – Sat: 8am – 8pm Sun: 8:30am - 2pm

April 30 - May 6, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

25

26

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Blair and Brown royal wedding ‘snub’ row SENIOR LABOUR figures have criticised the decision not to invite Tony Blair and Gordon Brown to the royal wedding.

St James’s Palace said they were not invited - while their Conservative predecessors Sir John Major and Baroness Thatcher were - because they are not Knights of the Garter.

But Labour MPs said the decision “looks partisan” and accused Downing Street of having a hand in their omission.

A spokesman for Number 10 said the guest list was a matter for the palace.

About 2,000 people have been invited to Westminster Abbey for the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton on 29 April.

More than 200 of the guests will be drawn from the ranks of government, Parliament and the diplomatic corps.

Baroness Thatcher will not be attending due to ill health, but Sir John Major, who succeeded her as prime minister, will be there.

When Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer were married in 1981, all living prime ministers - Harold Macmillan, Alec Douglas Home, Harold Wilson, Edward Heath and James Callaghan - were invited.

‘VINDICTIVENESS’ St James’s Palace has dismissed any suggestion of a “snub” towards Mr Blair and Mr Brown, but shadow justice minister Chris Bryant said he was unhappy with their exclusion.

“I really don’t want to rain on anybody’s parade because I really wish the happy couple a lovely day on Friday,” he said. “I just think they’ve been let down by their advisers, or

by Number 10, because I’m sure this list will have been passed through Number 10.

“I think the same proprieties should have been followed as for Charles and Diana’s wedding and that was that all former prime ministers should be invited.”

Mr Bryant added: “I think it shows

Neither Mr Brown nor Mr Blair will be at Westminster Abbey for the royal wedding

a bit of vindictiveness from Number 10.”

Former Europe minister Denis MacShane said he had tabled a Parliamentary question, asking what role government officials had played in drawing up the guest list.

“Denigrating Tony Blair and Gordon Brown seems to be an obsession of David Cameron’s and I think we need to know if any politician was involved in giving advice to the palace,” he told the BBC. “If you look at the guest list, it’s huge, and it’s just slightly odd that two men who’ve occupied the highest office of the land aren’t on it.”

Graham Allen, Labour MP and chairman of the Commons political and constitutional reform committee, said: “I think it’s an omission and it looks partisan, when I’m sure that their last intention was to appear like that.

“I think someone in the office somewhere has made a mistake and I hope it will be put right so that all prime ministers, of all parties, who are alive and kicking can be invited.”

‘NO PROTOCOL REASON’ St James’s Palace said William and Kate had been in charge of the guest list, but had “worked closely with the Queen’s and Prince of Wales’s Households where necessary”.

“Sir John Major and Baroness Thatcher were invited as they are both Knights of the Garter, along with Prince William,” a spokesman said.

“Furthermore, Sir John Major has a personal connection to Prince William, as he was appointed guardian to Prince William and Prince Harry following the death of the late Diana, Princess of Wales.

“This is a private wedding and not a state occasion, unlike [the Queen’s wedding] in 1947 or 1981, so there is no protocol reason to invite former prime ministers.”

A Downing Street spokesman said: “The guest list is a matter for the palace and the royal household and they have explained the reasoning behind it.”

Mr MacShane said that of the five prime ministers invited to Charles and Diana’s wedding, only one was a Knight of the Garter. (BBC)

Judge orders 25-year-old Spaniard to leave home and find job A 25-YEAR-OLD Spanish man has been ordered by a judge to leave home and look for a job after he took his parents to court for stopping his allowance money.

The man from Andalusia in southern Spain had taken the court action demanding a monthly allowance of $588 after his parents stopped giving him his spending money unless he tried to find a job.

However, the judge told the man, who has not been named in court documents, that he must

leave his parents’ house within 30 days.

The judge said the man was studying law, albeit at a slow rate, and would probably not complete the degree for several years, but he thought he was still capable of finding some kind of work.

The family court in Malaga says the situation at the home had seriously deteriorated with the parents claiming their son had physically and verbally assaulted them.

The man’s mother works in a

restaurant while his father works for a garbage collection firm. The judge also ordered that the parents should pay a $292 monthly food stipend for 2 years. The parents have also taken over the monthly repayments on their son’s car.

In Spain it is not unusual for offspring to remain living with their parents until well into their 30s, a trend strengthened by a tough labor market where the youth unemployment rate is 40.5%, the highest in the European Union.

April 30 - May 6, 2011

Obama releases ‘long form’ birth certificate THE WHITE House has released President Barack Obama’s birth certificate, in response to persistent rumours he was not born in the US. Mr Obama had previously released an official “certification of live birth” showing he was born in Hawaii.

But fringe “birther” theorists have insisted Mr Obama was actually born in his father’s native Kenya, making him ineligible to be president.

Recently potential Republican candidate Donald Trump has revived the rumour.

‘SILLINESS’ On Wednesday, Mr Obama described the unprecedented move as an effort to rid the US political debate of a distraction, saying he had watched, puzzled and bemused, as the birther conspiracy had built and developed over the past years.

He described the matter as a “sideshow” and its proponents as “carnival barkers”.

“We do not have time for this kind of silliness,” Mr Obama said. “We’ve got better stuff to do. I have better stuff to do. We’ve got big problems to solve, and I’m confident we can solve them, but we’re going to have to focus on them - not on this.”

The release of Mr Obama’s long form birth certificate, which had been stored in a bound volume among the records of the Hawaii Department of Health since his birth in August 1961, comes after years of speculation among conspiracyminded conservatives.

Under the US constitution, only a “natural born citizen” - a clause widely interpreted to mean born in the US or in some cases to US citizens abroad - is eligible to be president.

TRUMP’S ‘BIRTHER’ HYPE The birther conspiracy held that Mr Obama was born in Kenya or in Indonesia, where he lived as a child, or that the birth certificate revealed other unwholesome information about the president.

During the 2008 presidential campaign Mr Obama released a computer print-out of the birth certificate information that is recognised as an official record of his birth - on passport applications, for instance - and Hawaiian public health officials vouched for its authenticity.

But the move did little to quell the birthers, even as most mainstream Republicans have sought to quash the movement, calling it a distraction from substantive policy disagreements.

New York real estate entrepreneur and reality television star, meanwhile, has publicly flirted with a Republican presidential bid

President Obama’s birth certificate confirms that he was not born in Kenya.

in recent weeks, founded in large part by stoking questions about Mr Obama’s origins.

And on Wednesday, Mr Trump took credit for forcing Mr Obama’s hand.

“I’ve accomplished something that nobody else has been able to accomplish,” Mr Trump told reporters. “He should have done it a long time ago.”

The White House released copies of the original birth certificate, with a stamp verifying its authenticity.

White House officials said they had been given a waiver by Hawaii public health officials, as the state’s policy in general bars release of long-form birth certificates.

‘BIRTHERS’ UNSATISFIED The document shows Barack Hussein Obama II was born 4 August 1961 at Kapiolani Maternity and Gynecological Hospital in Honolulu, to Barack Hussein Obama, a 25year-old student, and Stanley Ann Dunham, 18, and includes the signature of the attending physician.

It remains unclear whether the release of the birth certificate will satisfy the most hard-core birthers.

Joseph Farah, chief executive of birther-orientated website WorldNetDaily.com, said on the site the document “raises as many questions as it answers”.

“It is important to remember there are still dozens of other questions concerning this question of eligibility... concerning Barack Obama’s parentage, his adoption, his citizenship status throughout his life and why he continues to cultivate a culture of secrecy around his life,” he said. (BBC)

April 30 - May 6, 2011

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

27

Afghan pilot kills eight US UK economy grows by 0.5% troops at Kabul airport in first quarter of 2011

EIGHT US troops and a US contractor have been killed by an Afghan air force pilot at Kabul airport in an apparent argument, US officials say.

The incident took place at a facility used by the Afghan air force at about 1100 local time (0630 GMT), the Afghan defence ministry said.

The pilot was also killed in the exchange.

The incident is the deadliest of a number of recent attacks on foreigners

by Afghan security personnel.

“We can confirm there was smallarms fire during this incident,” said Nato-led International Security Assistance Force (Isaf) spokesman Maj Tim James.

US officials said the eight Isaf troops and one foreign contractor were all American, AP news agency said.

Witnesses reported hearing sirens and seeing a heavy military presence near the facility, which generally has tight security.

A senior Afghan security official told the BBC the pilot’s name was Gul Ahmad, and he came from the Tarakhel area of Kabul.

He was suffering from “mental illness”, and either got into a fight with his foreign colleagues or planned the attack after being recruited by the Taliban, the official said.

A spokesman for the Afghan Air

Corps, Col Bahader, told AP the shooting was in an operations room of the Afghan Air Corps.

“Suddenly, in the middle of the meeting, shooting started,” Col Bahader said. “After the shooting started, we saw a number of Afghan army officers and soldiers running out of the building. Some were even throwing themselves out of the windows to get away.”

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the incident in a text sent to AP but the authorities have not confirmed any insurgent activity.

President Hamid Karzai and senior Isaf commanders condemned the shooting.

Until now the deadliest of the recent attacks on foreign troops was last November when an Afghan policeman killed six US soldiers.

And two Nato soldiers were shot dead by an Afghan border policeman in northern Faryab province on 4 April, local officials said.

The BBC’s Quentin Sommerville in Kabul says foreign troops broadly but not totally trust their Afghan colleagues and feel they have to keep half an eye on them.

The attackers are sometimes actually members of the Afghan security forces, and sometimes insurgents impersonating servicemen.

(BBC)

Petraeus ‘next head of CIA’, Panetta to lead Pentagon

GEN DAVID PETRAEUS, the US head of international forces in Afghanistan, will be nominated as CIA director when its chief moves to head the Pentagon, unnamed US officials have said.

CIA director Leon Panetta will be nominated to take over as US defence secretary when Robert Gates retires in 2011, the sources said.

The changes were expected be officially announced on Thursday.

Mr Gates was first appointed as defence secretary by George W Bush in 2006.

The shuffling of the top national security jobs has been the subject of weeks of speculation.

President Barack Obama will also nominate veteran diplomat Ryan Crocker as the next US ambassador to Afghanistan, NBC News reported.

The positions would require confirmation in the US Senate.

‘I’ll salute smartly’ Gen Petraeus’ office in Kabul told the BBC it had “no comment at this time” on the reports out of the US. In a BBC interview earlier this month, the general said he had “committed to staying here through the fighting season”, which ends in late November.

“At this point in life you serve at the pleasure of the elected leaders

above you and when they decide what the future holds obviously I’ll salute smartly and execute their decisions,” Gen Petraeus said.

“I’ve had discussions with individuals but it wouldn’t be appropriate to comment.”

US networks and AP reported that Gen Petraeus would be replaced in Afghanistan by Lieutenant General John Allen, currently deputy head of US Central Command - the command unit covering central Asia and the Middle East.

The changes would not take place immediately, but are expected to occur over the summer.

Lt Gen Allen is already in Washington DC, and Gen Petraeus is reportedly headed to the US capital from Afghanistan.

The announcement comes less than a year after Gen Petraeus took over leading Nato forces in Afghanistan from Gen Stanley McChrystal.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s spring fighting season is ramping up, testing Nato and Afghan national army territorial gains.

In July, the US is expected to begin what US President Barack Obama has called a “significant” withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan, turning over security duties to Afghan military forces. (BBC)

THE UK economy grew by 0.5% in the first three months of the year official figures have shown, reducing the risk of a double-dip recession.

The chancellor welcomed the return to growth, which followed a contraction of 0.5% at the end of 2010.

But Labour said the economy was flat and the recovery had been “choked off”.

The manufacturing and services sectors had performed well, the Office for National Statistics said, but construction output had fallen sharply.

MIXED RESPONSE Chancellor George Osborne said: “It is good news that the British economy is growing. It is particularly good news that manufacturing is growing so strongly, when we have had such an unbalanced economy in recent years, and manufacturing has not done so well.

“Jobs have been created since the New Year and government borrowing is down,” he added.

Ed Balls, Labour’s shadow chancellor, responded: “If George Osborne thinks zero growth over six months is good news and a sign that the recovery is on track then he is more out of touch and out of his depth than I feared. “ ‘FRAGILE RECOVERY’ Economists gave a mixed response to the figures.

David Kern, the chief economist at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “These figures were mixed and well below the Office for Budget

Responsibility prediction that the economy would grow by 0.8% in the quarter.

“Given the fragility of the recovery, it is vital for the government to persevere with policies that support growth, and remove the obstacles that prevent businesses from creating jobs and exporting.”

Growth in manufacturing continued to be strong, at 1.1%, the same as the previous quarter.

The GDP also figures showed that the services sector had returned to growth, after contracting during the bad weather at the end of last year.

This had particularly been the case with hotels and restaurants, the ONS said.

However, construction - one of the worst hit areas in the last quarter of 2010 - was down by 4.7% at the start of 2011.

Ross Walker, from RBS Financial Markets, said that as new data came in, the picture was likely to improve: “You do have what looks to me like a surprisingly large fall in construction output. Do we really believe that the level of construction output was lower in January than in December?

We may well see some revisions here.”

These figures are an initial estimate and will be revised at least twice in the coming months as more information is gathered.

‘UNCERTAINTY’ The low rate of growth could lessen the chance of an early interest rate rise by the Bank of England to combat inflation, which is currently

running at 4%, analysts say.

“We are expecting the Bank of England to raise rates in August,” said Deutsche Bank economist George Buckley, “but it is far from certain whether they will do that”.

“We will have the second quarter GDP numbers by then, but the problem is they may have been negatively affected by the royal wedding and two back-to-back bank holiday weekends which will depress production.

“It is still very uncertain. All of these figures are being affected by a lot of volatility, by holidays, the weather, snow. It has all had a big impact on the numbers.

LENDING LAGS The Prime Minister, David Cameron, said the growth in manufacturing indicated that the economy was moving away from its reliance on the service sector.

But he added that bank lending was still a stumbling block: “On the banks, we have an agreement with them they must increase their lending to businesses, large and small, and that needs to happen.”

Separate figures released on Wednesday from the British Bankers’ Association (BBA) showed that total net lending to companies fell in March by £4.7bn compared with a year ago, a slightly bigger fall than in February.

The BBA said in a statement that weak trading activity meant businesses were less likely to borrow money for expansion, and most were trying to pay down debts. (BBC)

Chavez says Venezuela’s minimum wage to rise 25% VENEZUELA’S MINIMUM wage will rise by more than 25%, President Hugo Chavez has announced.

Workers will get a 15% increase from 1 May, and then a 10% rise in September bringing the monthly salary to the equivalent of $360 (£220).

Some sectors had asked for a much bigger rise with inflation rate at 27%.

Mr Chavez, almost certain to run in next year’s 2012 presidential poll, has promised to use more profits from the oil industry to boost social spending.

The rise in the minimum wage will benefit several million people.

Announcing the move, President Chavez noted that there had been increases every year since he came to power in 1999.

“Here we are not cutting salaries nor pension nor delaying the pension age, nothing of that,” he said.

Rising oil prices have boosted Venezuela’s income but the country

Hugo Chavez has announced a sizable increase in minimum wages.

is suffering one of the highest rates of inflation in Latin America.

Venezuela’s Communist Party (PCV), the main ally of Mr Chavez’s

Socialist Party (PSUV) had asked for a minimum salary increase of no less than 40%, the Spanish news agency Efe reports.

28

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

April 30 - May 6, 2011

Armadillos pass leprosy to humans, study finds THEY’RE CUTE. They’re often roadkill. Some gourmands say they’re tasty, whether baked or barbecued.

Now Louisiana researchers have learned something else about ninebanded armadillos.

“A preponderance of evidence shows that people get leprosy from these animals,” said Richard W. Truman, director of microbiology at the National Hansen’s Disease Programme in Baton Rouge and lead author of a paper detailing the discovery in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Until now, scientists believed that leprosy was passed only from human to human. Every year, about 100 to 150 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with the malady, which is also known as Hansen’s disease. Though many have travelled to countries where the disease is relatively common, as many as a third don’t know where they picked it up.

Most of those cases are in Texas and Louisiana, where leprosyinfected armadillos live too.

Now, Truman said, “we’re able to provide a link.”

Leprosy is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae, a cousin of the microbe that causes tuberculosis. People with leprosy develop skin lesions; severe cases can cause nerve damage or disfigurement in the limbs.

Over the years, M. leprae has proven hard to study, its migration around the globe hard to plot, for a variety of reasons. The bacterium can’t be grown in a lab dish. Leprosy has a years-long

incubation period and propagates slowly. It is hard to contract — only 5% of humans are susceptible, and even they usually need to have close and repeated contact with M. leprae to develop an infection.

In the past, people with leprosy were confined to leper colonies.

Today, it is treatable with a combination of three antibiotics, said Dr. James Krahenbuhl, director of the National Hansen’s Disease Program.

About 3,600 people in the U.S. have the disease, he added, and they aren’t expected to die from it.

“This is a wimp of an organism,” Truman said.

Truman and co-workers had wondered for some time whether the small mammal might be transmitting leprosy. For years scientists had known that other than humans, armadillos are the only known natural hosts for M. leprae in the world. The animals get sick from M. leprae infections just like people do, and eventually die from kidney and liver damage. But unlike humans, they are more susceptible to catching the bug: In some parts of the South, more than 20% of armadillos have the infection.

Confirming that the animals could pass the disease to people required sophisticated genetic analysis. It also depended on a wealth of data accumulated over the last decade on similarities and differences among the genes of M. leprae bacteria collected around the world.

Scientists had already determined that leprosy originated in eastern Africa or the Near East, followed

Aside from humans, armadillos are the only other natural hosts of leprosy in the world. In some parts of the south in the USA, more than 20% of armadillos have the infection. (photo: JIM WATSON)

human migrations to Europe and, in the last 500 years, moved into West Africa and the Americas.

Building on that earlier work, Truman and his team collected samples from 50 patients with leprosy and 33 wild armadillos in the U.S., then used two types of analysis to look at sites in the M. leprae genome that are known to vary between the mammals.

One analysis, known as “SNP typing,” examines single changes in the string of chemical letters that make up DNA. The team found seven different SNP patterns in their samples, but one — called 3I — was abundant, turning up in all of the armadillos and in 26 of the 29 patients with no history of foreign

residence.

The scientists used a second method, known as VNTR analysis, to further classify their M. leprae samples. This technique, which looks for places in the DNA where the order of chemical letters carries small repeats, also revealed great similarity between the armadillos and the patients. Putting the two analyses together, the scientists reported that 28 of the animals and 25 of the patients who had lived near armadillos shared a genotype called 3I-2-v1.

This genotype “appears to be unique and highly distinctive,” the team wrote. It has not been recorded anywhere else in the world.

The scientists concluded that the

data strongly implicated armadillos as a source of human infection.

“This is good, strong genetic evidence,” said Varalakshmi D. Vissa, an associate professor of microbiology, immunology and pathology at Colorado State University, who uses genetic tools to study leprosy. She was not involved in this research.

Vissa noted that while the discovery wouldn’t have significance for areas of the world where leprosy is a serious health problem, such as India or China — where there are no armadillos — it is significant for fighting leprosy in the U.S. Knowing that people can get leprosy from armadillos also might help doctors diagnose the disease more quickly.

Truman added that it might help persuade people living near armadillos — their range extends from Texas to the Carolinas — to avoid contact with the animals. That means refraining from touching, playing with and — yes — eating the critters, which are feted at armadillo festivals, cheered on at armadillo races and chased down during armadillo hunts.

“It doesn’t mean people need to run away from armadillos the way they do a rattlesnake, but people need to be careful,” said Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases at the National Institutes of Health, which helped fund the research. “You shoot an armadillo and try to skin it — that’s the worst thing you could do.” (latimes.com)

Sleep-deprived brains turn themselves off

A sleepy rat eats a sugar pellet ( photo: Chiara Cirelli)

RESEARCHERS know that sleep deprivation makes people and animals less functional. Now a team of researchers in Wisconsin and Italy has found that in rats kept awake past their bed times, their brains begin to turn themselves off, neuron by neuron, though the rat is still awake.

Not only that, but the neurons that we use the most during the day are the ones that appear most likely to go offline.

“It’s very worrisome. It means that even before we have obvious global signs of sleepiness, there are more local signs of tiredness and they have consequences on performance,” says Chiara Cirelli, a professor of psychiatry at the University of Wisconsin-Madison? and one of the researchers.

“It’s the first time anyone has thought about sleep at the single cell level,” says Christopher Colwell, a professor in the Laboratory of Sleep and Circadian Medicine at the University of California-Los Angeles School of Medicine. “This study was

really clever in suggesting a whole new way of thinking about sleep.”

Sleep is crucial to mental and physical health in all animals and it’s clearly visible in the brain. When we sleep, slow-wave activity appears in our brains as the neurons in the cortex switch themselves off and go electrically silent. Wakefulness is when our neurons are on and generating spikes of electrical activity.

The researchers, at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Perceptual Robotics Laboratory in Pisa, Italy, kept rats up four hours past their bedtimes and measured their brain waves using an EEG, orelectroencephalogram. They found that although the rats were awake, individual neurons in their brains turned themselves off in a random pattern. The shut-down of those neurons, the researchers believe, is why the rats did progressively less well on a task in which they had to find a sugar pellet. Their research is

published in this week’s edition of the journal Nature.

There’s no reason to think this doesn’t also happen in the human brain, and Cirelli’s group is beginning to do similar studies in people getting ready for brain surgery whose neural pathways are being mapped.

She thinks that it’s also likely that the most-used neurons are the ones that turn off. “We have done several studies showing that the neurons that you use the most during the waking day are the ones that need to go to sleep the most when you’re tried. At a certain point, and we don’t know exactly why, they start saying ‘I’ve had enough. I’m going off-line.’”

While much research has been done on how the brain functions when asleep and when awake, looking at brain function in the sleepdeprived brain at this level is new, says Colwell, who wrote a viewpoint piece about their the paper that is also in Nature this week.

April 30 - May 6, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

29

Science & Technology Bad memories could be erased, study suggests THE ABILITY to at least partially erase bad memories in people is a step closer to reality today with research into marine snails.

Scientists found they could erase long-term memories in the snails by inhibiting the activity of a specific protein kinase called PKM —molecules that chemically modify proteins.

“I think we will be able to alter memories someday to reduce the trauma from our brains,” said the study’s senior author, David Glanzman, a UCLA professor of integrative biology and physiology and of neurobiology.

The study appears in the April 27 issue of the Journal of Neuroscience, a premier neuroscience journal.

Previous research has found preliminary evidence of drugs that can erase bad memories.

The new research, dealing with actual neurons in the snails brains, could eventually help with treatment of post-traumatic

stress disorder, drug addiction and maybe Alzheimer’s disease and other long-term memory disorders, Glanzman and his colleagues say.

“Almost all the processes that are involved in memory in the snail also have been shown to be involved in memory in the brains of mammals,” Glanzman said.

When marine snails are attacked by a predator, their sensitivity to environmental stimuli goes up — a “fundamental form of learning that is necessary for survival and is very robust in the marine snail,” Glanzman explained. The neurons associated with this behaviour were targeted in the study.

“We found that if we inhibit PKM in the marine snail, we will erase the memory for long-term sensitisation,” Glanzman said. “In addition, we can erase the longterm change at a single synapse that underlies long-term memory in the snail.” (livescience.com)

Your perception of gravity is all relative, study finds IN A DISCOVERY that could turn science on its head, researchers now find that you are a better judge of how objects fall when you are upright than when you lie on your side.

Our senses are known to play tricks on us. For instance, we can keep our balance when our eyes are closed, but are better at doing so when we open our eyes or touch a surface. This shows that our brain perceives gravity’s direction through multiple senses -- our vision and the so-called vestibular system in our inner ear, among others.

Still, is any one sense more important than the others for discerning the pull of gravity and its effects? Answering this question could help astronauts deal better with microgravity as well as patients who have problems with their stability, such as those with Parkinson’s disease and muscular dystrophy.

To measure how well people gauge how objects might fall, scientists equipped 15 volunteers with laptops that showed computer-rendered pictures of vaselike objects tipped at various angles over the edge of a table and asked them to indicate whether each item would fall or right itself. They were also asked to judge if a line on the screen was tilted clockwise or

counterclockwise relative to which way was down. The participants were tested while they were sitting upright and lying on their sides.

The scientists found that volunteers were typically better judges of how objects fall when they were upright than when on their sides. Apparently, our perception of an item’s stability is often biased toward the tilt of our bodies rather than visual cues of gravity’s true direction. For instance, the Tower of Pisa “may appear more stable than it is if you lay in the same direction of its lean,” said researcher Michael Barnett-Cowan, a postdoctoral neuroscientist and project leader for motion perception at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics in Tübingen, Germany. “Lay in the opposite direction, and it may appear even more likely to fall.”

People are reasonably good at predicting how objects will fall and estimating gravity’s direction when we are upright “presumably because we spend most of the time with an upright posture,” Barnett-Cowan noted. “This may explain why we go to great extents to align ourselves with gravity in order to engage in the world most optimally. (livescience. com)

As doggie diabetes soars, human treatment may help JUST LIKE their human owners, dogs and cats are increasingly likely to be diagnosed with diabetes. And more and more, veterinarians are turning to tools developed for use by diabetic humans to help out our canine and feline companions.

Human drugs have long been used to treat the disease in animals, but now vets are using another human tool, the continuous glucose monitor, to develop treatments for Fido and Mittens. The monitor, which is surgically implanted under the skin, tracks the concentration of a sugar called glucose in the blood.

As in humans, pets with high blood glucose levels experience extreme thirst, frequent urination and fatigue.

Left untreated, high blood sugar can cause blindness and kidney failure.

Diabetes is on the rise in animals, veterinarian Amy DeClue of the University of Missouri-Columbia wrote in March in the journal Clinics in Laboratory Medicine. Like people with the disease, animals with diabetes have trouble regulating blood sugar on their own, because their bodies do not produce enough insulin, a hormone that lowers blood glucose. Diet and insulin injections can help, but blood sugar levels have to be carefully monitored to make sure the treatments are on track.

TRACKING FIDO’S BLOOD SUGAR With a continuous glucose monitor, doctors and their human patients can get a more detailed understanding of how insulin levels respond to drugs, meals and exercise. The same is true of pets, said DeClue and her fellow researchers.

Previously, veterinarians would

If diabetes is left untreated in dogs it can cause several complications (CREDIT: Dreamstime).

keep a diabetic dog or cat in the clinic for a day, testing their blood periodically and using the data to determine how much insulin to prescribe. Because veterinary clinics can be stressful for animals, and because insulin levels respond to stress, those numbers were often inaccurate.

“Continuous glucose monitoring [CGM] is much more effective and accurate than previous glucose monitoring techniques and has revolutionised how veterinarians manage diabetes in dogs,” DeClue said in a statement. “The CGM gives us a complete view of what is happening in the animal in their natural setting. For example, it can show us if a pet’s blood glucose changes when an owner gives treats, when the animal exercises or in response to insulin therapy.”

GROWING PROBLEM FOR PETS Diagnoses of diabetes have been increasing recently for both cats and dogs, though no firm numbers

are available for felines. A 2003 study published the Veterinary Journal found that dog diabetes cases comprised 19 of every 10,000 vet hospital admissions in 1970. By 1999, that number had jumped to 64 out of 10,000. However, fatalities from diabetes have dropped in that time period, plummeting from deaths in 37 percent of cases to deaths in only 5 percent of cases.

In cats, the disease is linked to obesity, but the connection is not well-established in dogs, which appear to develop a version of diabetes that looks like human Type 1, or juvenile, diabetes. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas fails to produce insulin. In Type 2, or adult-onset diabetes, the body may produce enough insulin, but the cells fail to recognise the hormone.

Cats can get either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes.

Miniature poodles, bichon frises, keeshonds, Alaskan malamutes and miniature schnauzers are the breeds most at risk for canine diabetes, the researchers wrote. (livescience.com)

Did the universe begin as a simple 1-D line?

A REFRESHINGLY simple new idea has emerged in the complicated world of high energy physics. It proposes that the early universe was a one-dimensional line. Not an exploding sphere, not a chaotic ball of fire—just a simple line of pure energy.

Over time, as that line grew, it crisscrossed and intersected itself more and more, gradually forming a tightly interwoven fabric, which, at large distances, appeared as a 2-D plane. More time passed and the 2-D universe expanded and twisted about, eventually creating a web — the 3-D universe we see today.

This concept, called “vanishing dimensions” to describe what happens the farther one looks back in time, has been gaining traction within the high energy physics community in recent months.

If correct, it promises to

bridge the gap between quantum mechanics -- the physics of the very small -- andgeneral relativity – the physics of space-time. It would also make sense of the properties of a hypothetical elementary particle called the Higgs boson. And best of all, it would do so with elegant simplicity.

“In the last 30 years, [physicists] were trying to make our theories more complicated by introducing more particles, more dimensions,” said Dejan Stojkovic, a physicist at the University of Buffalo who researches vanishing dimensions.

“We decided to go the other way and make theories less complicated in the high energy realm. At high energy [in the early universe], we are changing the background on which the standard model of particle physics is formulated. In 1-D, the problem greatly simplifies.”

LIFE ON A LINE According to the theory, for the first thousand-trillionth of a second after the Big Bang, up until the moment when the universe cooled to an average temperature of 100 teraelectronvolts (TeV are actually a measure of energy, but energy and temperature correspond), it was a 1-D line.

So what would the young universe have been like?

“In 1-D, there’s a new sense of unification,” Stojkovic told Life’s Little Mysteries, a sister site to SPACE.com. “Right now, you see the diverse world because you’re in 3-D. When you go down to 1-D, things become much simpler. Properties that distinguish all the different particles don’t exist anymore, so they all become alike. There is no rotation. All you have is forward and backward, and energy moving in either direction.”

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate

weeklylistings

Great Rate // ► $1 per word minimum 15 words ► $5 for additional graphic Fully furnished, ready to move in (3,000 sq feet) Ideal for a lawyer, accountant, doctor or architect Tel: 946-4664, 946-4894

for sale

Apartment for rent $850 per month One bedroom Richmond Hills Contact 946-4894

High quality decorative

curtain rails for sale 4 X 1.5m long plus 3 extendable rails 28-48 inches long Call 245 6620

1 BEDROOM FURNISHED $350.00 PER MONTH CONTACT 243-9119

Need Help Looking for that Perfect Apartment ?? Call 941-4100 or 2434921. We can assist in finding you Short or Long Term Rentals. Don’t see exactly what you’re looking to Rent. Contact us, we have others!!!

One Bedroom

Leeward Palms House 1 bath 1 bedroom Fully Furnished/ Washer & Dryer Asking Price $850 p/m

Wedding Gown for Sale Size 18W champagne & Beige wedding Dress.

Worn once in good condition Asking $800.00. Call 241-2000

realty

Professional Building For Rent

Good location, near NIB and Courts On Leeward Highway

April 30 - May 6, 2011

Classifieds

Chalk Sound , Ocean View (Located Before Silly Creek Area) 1 bed 1.5 bath Fully Furnished/ Wrap around deck/ VerySpacious/Washer & Dryer Asking Price $1000 *********************** Royal Diamond Villa 1 bed 1 bath with Balcony Fully Furnished / Ready to Move-in Asking Price $1000 p/m *************************** The Venetian 1 bed 1 bath Fully Furnished/ Upstairs/ Downstairs unit/ Onsite Pool Asking Price: $1200 p/m **************************** GREAT DEAL !!!!

Leeward Palms 1 bed 1 bath duplex Fully Furnished /Washer Asking Price $1300 p/m ALL Utilities Included !!! ****************************** Venetian Road Apartment 1 bed 1 bath Fully Furnished/Very Spacious Asking Price $1250 p/m

1 (1) Bedroom apartment in Richmond Hills

$750.00 per month

1 (3) Bedroom 2 bathroom apartment In Richmond Hills

$1,100.00 per month

1st and last month plus security required

Contact: 232-3508 or 231-3788

(Slightly Negotiable) **************************** GRACEBAY STEAL!!!

Trade winds Condo Hotel, Gracebay 1 bed 1 bath Fully Furnished /Washer & Dryer/End Unit Facing Pool/ Asking Price $1200 p/m ************************** TWO BEDROOMS Chalk Sound, Water Front 2 Bed 2 Bath Fully Furnished REDUCED Asking Price $1700 p/m (Negotiable) ************************* Real Steal !!Leeward Palms 2 bedroom 2 baths Fully Furnished Asking Price $1100 p/m **************************** Chalk Sound, Ocean View (Located Before Silly Creek Area) 2 Bed 2 Bath Fully Furnished/Very Spacious/Wrap around Deck Asking Price $1650 p/m ****************************** Grace Bay Townhome -End Unit ( 3 minutes from IGA Gourmet) 2 bedrooms 2 ½ Bath/ Nicely Furnished/Screened Porch with Direct Pool Access Asking Price $ 2400 p/m Juba Sound Apartments Located in Lovely Living Environment!!

2 bed 2 bath Nicely Furnished Asking Price $1400 ************************** Grace Bay Condo Grandview 3rd Floor unit 3 bedroom 3 baths Nicely Furnished Call for More details !!! *************************** The Venetian 2 bedroom 2 bath Fully furnished / Fully Equipped Kitchen/Pool Asking Price $ 1800 p/m ************************** Sunview Town Homes, Grace Bay Road 2 Bed 2.5 Bath with Pool Asking Price $1,600/per month ************************* Long Bay Beach Front 2 bed 1 bath w/ Loft Fully Furnished/ Screened Deck facing Beach Asking $2000 p/m ***********************

Ocean Club Plaza, 2nd Floor Unit, Grace Bay 2 Bed 2.5 Bath, with Pool/Fully Equipped Kitchen Asking Price $2,000/per month ************************* Leeward Landings Townhome 2 bedroom 2 ½ bath Fully Furnished Asking Price $1600 ************************** Long Bay Apartments 2 bed 1 bath Fully Furnished/Washer & Dryer Asking Price $1200 p/m Three- Four Bedrooms ************************* MUST SEEE !!!! Beautiful Home Discovery Bay Canal Front Home 3 bedroom 2.5 bath Spacious Beautifully Furnished/ Fully Equipped kitchen /52” Plasma Televisions Asking Price $2300 p/m Negotiable ************************* Juba Sound Home 3 Bed 2.5 Bath Ocean View, Terrace, Asking Price $2200 REDUCED !! ************************* Low Cost Home, Blue Hills 3 Bed 2 Baths Furnished Central AC/ Washer & Dryer/Dishwasher Asking Price $1,350/per month ************************* Leeward Canal Front Home 4 bedrooms 3.5 baths Spacious/Nicely Furnished Asking Price $4000 p/m

ONE BEDROOM • Cooper Jack, Canal Front cottage, 1 bed, 1 bath, furnished, spectacular southern view, wrap around deck, small dock, loads of room, laundry area. Cistern water to manage cost.

Asking $800 per month negotiable.

• Richmond Hills apt. 1 Bed, 1 bath, washer/dryer, furnished, 2 available parking spots, landscaped. Centrally located Asking $1,000 per month TWO BEDROOM • Chalk Sound Water Front, 2 bed 2 bath, fully furnished with lots of space and storage. Asking $1,500 per month (negotiable) • Grace Bay Town Home, 2 bed 2.5 bath, 2 storey, fully furnished with washer and dryer, central a/c, screened porch and near to Grace Bay amenities. Asking $2,400 per month • Grace Bay, Sunview Town Homes, Two Storey, 2 bed 2.5 bath, Pool and BBQ area on site. Asking $1,600 per month (negotiable) • Longbay House with Loft (Minutes from the beach) 2 bedroom 2 baths Asking $1500 per month (slightly negotiable) THREE AND FOUR BEDROOM • Belglade Home, 3 bed 2 bath, nicely furnished, central a/c, washer and dryer. Asking $1,100 per month

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

• Hawksbill Town Home, 3 bed 2.5 bath, nicely furnished, a/c, washer dryer, pool on site, parking spaces $2,200 per month • Leeward Home, Canal Front, Two Storey, Brand New, 4 bed 3.5 bath, Spacious and nicely furnished. Asking $4,000 per month. Contact us for possibly more options !!!!

Office: 941-4100 Carolina 231-4461, Natishka 243-4921

vehicles for sale Mac Motors

New Vehicles with Factory Warranty; 2009 FIAT 500 Sport BZ 1.2 2Dr Auto (Bossa Nova White) *248033* - 29,700. 2009 FIAT Panda Dynamic 1.2 Auto (New Orleans Blue) *323248* - 22,900. 2009 FIAT Grande Punto 1.4 Auto (Ambient White) *466162* - 26,500. 2009 FIAT Bravo Dynamic 1.4 Auto (Steel Grey) *196447* - 35,500. 2008 Land Rover Discovery III SE TDV6 (Keswick) *469067* - 68,000. 2008 Dodge Caliber SXT Sport App. 2.0L (Surf Blue) *599952* - 27,000. 2009 Dodge Journey SXT FWD 3.5L (Silver Steel) *535698* - 37,000. 2009 Dodge Durango 4x2 SLT 4.7L V8 (Silver) *703733* - 40,000. 2009 Jeep Patriot Sport 4x2 (White) *186265* - 32,000.

2009 Dodge Dakota SLT 4x4 (Deep Water Blue) *765339* - 35,000.

Certified used vehicles;

2006 Jaguar X-Type Estate Manual Trans, 2.0L Diesel, AVALABLE FOR LEASE - 39,000. 2006 Land Rover Freelander TD4 Atacama Sand 22,500. 2007 Dodge Ram Mega Cab 5.7L V8 4x4 Hemi (Red) Very LOW MILES!!! - 41,000. 2008 Dodge Ram Sport 1500 5.7L V8 Hemi 4x2 (Sunburst) - 36,500

Mac Motors

FULLY FRANCHISED DEALER FOR LAND ROVER, JAGUAR, DODGE, JEEP, CHRYSLER & FIAT SALES / WARRANTY* / SERVICE / DIAGNOSTICS / BODY REPAIRS FREE First Service with New Vehicles Finance available for qualified buyers *Land Rover / Jaguar : 3 Years Factory Warranty *Dodge / Jeep / Chrysler : 2 Years Factory Warranty *Used : 3 Months Warranty on 'Certified Used Vehicle’

for sale 10m 2010 Torch is for sale for $950.

The kite is in very good condition with only one small tear, which was repaired.

Also selling 130cm Momentum for $400.

It comes with new foot-pads and fins.

The board has some scrapes on the

bottom. Contact 342-2941

services Earn money now.

Sell Avon 346-1434 / 246-1434

The Flower Girl Bed and Bath Shop Bed and bath sets and Lingeries For more information, call us at 649-9464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com ******************************** We now accept Upholstery jobs.

Have your cushions re-covered at excellent prices Drape fabrics are also in stock For more information, call us at 6499464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@ yahoo.com The Flower Girl Bouquets, Mix and Tropical Arrangements for all occasions Price ranges from $15.00 and up For more information and reservation, call us at 649-9464894 or 6492313788, You may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com *********************** Easter Baskets and Easter Dresses available For more information, call us at 649-9464894 or 6492313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com ********************** Cards for all occasions, Gift Sets for men and women Designer Vases on display.

For more information, call us at 6499464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@ yahoo.com ************************ Fresh and Silk flower Arrangements available for centerpieces And decorations in all sizes ************************* Customized Gift Baskets for her and him…tell us what You want and we’ll do it for you! ************************* Decors and flowers for wedding from ceremony to Personal flowers and all through the reception ************************* Sympathy Wreath and Casket Sprays available in different sizes *************************** Inspirational Gift Items and baskets in different designs On display For more information, call us at 6499464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com

CREATIVE NAIL CARE Restaurant in Grace Bay is looking for an experienced

Labourer

Is looking for a

Nail Technician To work 6 days per week.

Applicants must be able to understand and speak English Must be physically fit dependable and hardworking applicants should have at least 5 years experience, have knowledge of insecticides and how to care for tropical plants, trees and assorted herbs Wages between $6.00 -$9.00 per hour

Salary $1,500.00 per month plus commission.

All resumes/Cv’s, letters of reference along with a clean police record must be forwarded to fax: 649946-5368 Belongers only need apply Deadline for applications is April 15th, 2011

6761

30

Contact 231-5170

6908

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

Is looking for a

Labourer – $120.00 per week

Cashier Labourer – $150.00 per week

To work 6 days per week salary $8 per hour.

Contact 244-5211

6906

Must be able to work 4 days per week.

Contact 347-7129

JESSE EWING IS LOOKING FOR:

6897

Interested persons can contact Jatana Williams @ 243-5732

Labourer To work 5 days per week.

Contact 245-4750

Deadline for application is May 19th, 2011

FOR SALE

Cove Construction has surplus equipment for sale following the successful completion of the airport extension contract

D8R D6 BULLDOZER GRADER COMPACTORS

JCB BACKHOE DUMP TRUCKS OFFICES AND OTHERS

Contact: Ewart Chattell 941-5548 LAS BRISAS RESTAURANT

WEST BAY CLUB

Waiter

Domestic

Is looking for a

To work 6 days per week including holidays and weekends. Salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact 946-5306

6903

DEXTER & ROCHELLE WILLIAMS

Is looking to fill the following positions:

Needed to work from 9am – 5pm. Salary $5.00 per hour.

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

DENISE SMITH

LABOURER

31

6898

April 30 - May 6, 2011

Is in need of a

Worker To work 6 days

per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 946-8550 6914

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

April 30 - May 6, 2011 FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

NOTICE OF SALE BY

PUBLIC AUCTION Scotiabank (Turks & Caicos) Ltd. of Cherokee Road, 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: 1. 60701/36 Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill, Providenciales comprising 1.43 acres of land on which is constructed a three bedroom, three bathroom house.

Registered proprietor: Kenneth Norman Russell 2. Parcel 61112/50 & 52 Long Bay Hills, Providenciales comprising of two adjoining parcels with an existing two bedroom and one bath residential house, plus guest building.

Registered Proprietor: Hynetta Lenore Stubbs 3 Parcel 60807/172 & 173 ,The Bight & Thomas Stubbs, Providenciales comprising of two adjoining lots of a total of 1 acre on which is constructed a two storey apartment building with two ground level one bedroom apartments and one upper floor two bedroom, two bathroom apartments.

Registered Proprietor: Jacqueline Edna Brown and Latasha Makalia Delancy 4 Parcel 10507/35/K8, South Suburbs Grand Turk comprising of a one bedroom condominium unit at the White Sands Resort.

Registered Proprietor: Wilfred Rattey Jr. 5. Parcel 60400/172 Chalk Sound, Providenciales comprising of 1.05 acres of land on which is constructed a split-level residential development with 11 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, pool and concrete deck area.

Registered Proprietor: Robert Alexander Been 6. Parcel 60715/23 Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill, Providenciales comprising 0.48 acres of land on which is constructed 2 two storey apartment buildings, one comprising of 8 units and the other comprising of 4 units.

Register Proprietor: Thomas Chalmers Misick 7. Parcel 60702/188/K6 Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill Providenciales on which is constructed a building comprising of 1.329 square feet with two bedroom, one bathroom upper floor unit. The unit comprises of a combined living room, kitchen and dining room areas and small laundry closet and has a small external deck area.

Registered Proprietor: Cora Nichole Malcolm 8. Parcel 51203/29 Bottle Creek Central, North Caicos located off Middle Road comprising of four bedrooms, one bathroom, living/dining room and kitchen with approximately 1,155 sq.ft of gross floor areas of residence.

Registered Proprietor: Lionel Henry Bassett 9. Parcel 61112/233 Long Bay Hills, Providenciales comprising of a two storey residential development, upper level residence with kitchen, living room, dining room, three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Ground floor provides a self-contained two bedroom apartment.

Registered Proprietor Claudette Olivia Blenman

10. Parcel 60900/59 Leeward Going Through, Providenciales comprising of a two storey residential development, upper level three bedrooms, two bathrooms, living/dining room and kitchen, Ground floor provides two bedrooms, one bathroom, living/ dining and kitchen.

Registered Proprietor Audley Gordon Williams 11. Parcel 60900/225 Leeward Going Through Providenciales comprising of residential development one storey three bedrooms and two bathrooms, living/dining room and kitchen.

Registered Proprietor Narissa Bianca Thomas 12. Parcel 60003/120 North West & North Central Providenciales, comprising of one storey residential development, three bedrooms and two bathrooms, living/dining room and kitchen, a laundry room and an unscreened porch area to the front of property.

Registered Proprietor Jomo Kenyetta Carter and Janet Oreetha Mears-Carter 13. Parcel 60504/130, Blue Hills & Stamers Run, Providenciales, comprising of .44 acres of land on which is an empty lot with a foundation only of two small units constructed on it.

Registered Proprietor Joshua David Harvey and Requel Monique Harvey 13. Parcel 60715/171 Cheshire Hall and Richmond Hill Providenciales the property comprises of .50 acres on which is constructed a single storey existing development comprising several rental units.

Registered Proprietor Charles Albert Alexander Stubbs and Karalene Elizabeth Stubbs 14. Parcel 60505/85 Blue Hills & Stamers Run Providenciales, comprising of a two storey residential development, three bedroom, living room, kitchen and dining room.

Registered Proprietor: Stephanie Ann Williams and Leon McDonald Williams 15. Parcel 60802/57 The Bight & Thomas Stubbs Providenciales, comprising of a two storey residential development with self contained apartments. The home comprises of three bedrooms, living room, kitchen and dining room.

Registered Proprietor: Ruth Williams 16. Parcel 61113/88 Long Bay Hills Providenciales, comprising of a two storey residential development, three bedroom, living room, kitchen and dining room.

Registered Proprietor: Terrance McLean Robinson and Loretta Rocal Robinson 17. Parcel 60502/186 Blue Hills & Stamers Run Providenciales, comprising of .28 acres of land on which a single storey building has been constructed comprising one bedroom, one bathroom, kitchen/ living area and a screened terrace.

Registered Proprietor Barbara Jean Mills Hamilton

The auction will be held at the offices of Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Limited, Grace Bay Branch, Providenciales at 11:30 o’clock in the morning on Friday the 13th day of May 2011 A reserve price will be fixed on all parcels. A deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids.

Terms and Conditions of Sale by Auction are available by request from Scotiabank Collections Manager (649) 946-8034 or fax number (649) 946- 4409.

AdventureScape Ltd Is seeking to employ

OFFICE

COORDINATOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Web services based business required an office coordinator.

Successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing and managing web design project and liasing with customers and staff. General office duties including creating and approving estimates, contracts and invoices. Candidate must have at least 10 years of experience working with various apects of web services.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLAS AND EXPERIENCE

Candidate must be familiar with database engineering, and maintenance including SQL, CMS, Drupal and MYSQL. Job entails web site programming including PHP, CSS, Flash, Java, and C++. Candidate must be familiar with programs such as Macromedia Flash, Fireworks, Shockwave and Dreamweaver.

SEO knowledgeable with emphasis in e-marketing. Candidate must be comfortable suing Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Image Ready, Corel Draw and 3D Studio MAX.

BELONGERS NEED ONLY APPLY. Send resume to info@adventurescape.com and forward a copy to the Department of Immigration and Labour.

TIKI HUT

Bartender Is looking for a

To work $5.00 per hour. Must be able to work 6 days per week.

Contact 344-6072 6933

ALTORACIA RESTAURANT

DOMESTIC WORKER Must be able to work 5 days per week.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Interested persons can

contact 342-2884 Call today to advertise

946-4664

OR EMAIL tcnews@tciway.tc

6580

32

April 30 - May 6, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Due to circumstances beyond our control...

ROTARY BINGO has moved to the

Cactus Bar & Grill

in the Bight across from Tropicana Doors open at 7:00 pm

ALL CASH PRIZES!!!

PROGRESSIVE JACKPOT NOW

OVER $6,400 (JACKPOT PAID BY CHEQUE)

Food and drinks available

33

34

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

April 30 - May 6, 2011 FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

NOTICE Labourer Labourer THE TURTLE COVE INN HOTEL

QUALITY INTERIOR Is looking for a

Deadline for applications May 19th, 2011

ROYAL TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS POLICE FORCE

Property # 2:

Title 60904/127, Leeward Going Through, Providenciales A 0.56 acre residential corner building lot in the prestigious Leeward area; close to canal and ocean front. All utilities available.

Registered Proprietor: RUSSELL ALEXANDER GARLAND

Property # 3:

Title 60803/87, The Bight & Thomas Stubbs, Providenciales A 2.62 acre corner lot on the Lower Bight Road in the Bight, on which is located a small, unoccupied single storey building. Suitable for commercial development, all utilities available.

Registered Proprietor: RUSSELL ALEXANDER GARLAND

The auction will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 6th, 2011 at the offices of Twa, Marcelin, Wolf, Chancery Court, 1276 Leeward Highway, Providenciales. For further details please contact Twa, Marcelin, Wolf at tmw@tmwlaw.tc – reference “Auctions – May 6/2011” or telephone (649) 946-4261.

All properties are sold as is.

SHEFFIELD FORBES Is seeking a

Labourer To work $5.00 6821

per hour.

ROBINSON’S SURVEYING SERVICES

LABOURER LEEWARD HIGHWAY

• Must have experience in surveying work • Must be able to cut straight line in the bush • Must have a minimum of 50M per hour (400m) (1200) ft. per day • Must be able to mix and carry concrete in bucket over long distance Wages: $6.00 per hour

Fax: 649-941-7263 or cell: 232-1050

6902

6939

TO WORK 3 DAYS PER WEEK SALARY $5.00 PER HOUR. CONTACT 231-0001

STANLEY STAR CONSTRUCTION

Tile Layers Is looking for 4

To work 4 days per week salary $7.00 per hour.

Contact 231-0308

Call 347-8393

ACRES OF DIAMONDS/ QUALITY SUPERMARKET Leeward Highway, Providenciales

DOMESTIC WORKER/LABOuRER/ TRUCK DRIVER Salary $5 & $7 per hour. Only Turks Islanders need to apply.

Telephone: 941-7929/941-3112

Long Bay

Rental 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, Basic cable TV included. $600.00 per month

6909

Property # 1: Titles 60812/29K1, 29K2, 29K3, 29K4 and 29K5, The Bight and

Thomas Stubbs, Providenciales (The Seagate) This unique property located behind Coral Gardens on Penn’s Road is comprised of five (5) condominium units situated on 1.176 acres. There are two (2) buildings, one of which contains a cistern, basement and laundry plus 2-2 bedrooms, 2-1/2 bath condo with living, kitchen and dining areas, plus 2-1 bedroom, 1-1/2 bath condo with living, kitchen and dining areas. The second building has a 1 bedroom, 1-1/2 bath condo with living, kitchen and dining area. The site is fully landscaped and has a swimming pool. The condo units vary in area, from 768 sq. ft. to 1959 sq. ft. At the present time, all of the condo units are still owned by the Chargor, which has been operating the development strictly as a rental property.

Registered Proprietor: MUSTANG INVESTMENTS LTD.

Lakhani 649-946-4203

NEEDED

SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION Equity Ltd., pursuant to the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands, hereby gives notice that it will cause to be sold by public auction, the following properties:

Please contact Rahul

LABOURER

Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Downtown, Town Center Mall, Providenciales, within twenty eight (28) days of publication of this Notice.

6900

To work 5 days per week.

Salary $250.00.

Contact 342-9831

An Application, REGISTERED #PR 10845, by Grace Bay Shore Holdings Ltd.* for the development of Three (3) Town House Units (Two bedrooms within each unit) contained in one single story building, swimming pool & ancillary facilities, has been submitted to the Department of Planning for consideration of Development Permission on Parcel 60810/83, Grace Bay Hills on Providenciales.

Dated Posted 26th April 2011

To do general cleaning around the property Must be able to work weekends and holidays. Salary $5.50 per hour.

Only Belongers with previous experience need apply.

6931

Regulation 7 of the Physical Planning (Development Permission) Regulations, 1990

Is looking for a

Contact 231-2414

April 30 - May 6, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

Local Air Line now hiring for

Requires a

Financial Controller @@Must have 10 years accounting experience in the construction industry. @@Salary negotiable depending on level of experience Please fax resumes to 941 7626

Labourer To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour

contact 241-5693

VACANCIES Olympic Construction Ltd. is seeking applications for:

In addition to specialized skills and at least 5 years experience in the various areas, each construction worker will be expected to: 1. Be able to read and understand architectural and engineering drawings as necessary to complete construction projects.

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

Been MEP Ltd.

@@4 cabinet makers @@4 finish carpenters (with intermediary to advance level skills)

35

@@6 masons @@2 concrete finishes @@4 steel fixers

2. Have a working knowledge of the Turks and Caicos Building codes and regulations as it pertains to their trade.

3. Engage in other forms of labour that may be necessary for the completion of construction projects.

4. Handle some awkward and

repetitive manual tasks.

5. Arrive at the construction site as early as 6 a.m. to commence work.

6. Work flexible hours.

7. Provide two recent written trade references with their application.

BELONGERS NEED ONLY APPLY

Interested persons may submit their resume via email to: info@olympic.tc or by fax (649) 946-1101 Mail or Deliver applications to: Olympic Construction Ltd. P.O. Box 205. Office Administration Waterloo Plaza, Waterloo Road, Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Island Deadline: Friday, 30th April, 2011

Airport Customer Service position In Providenciales, TCI. Experience required in the field.

Please submit Resume's to Luis.X.Rodriguez@Delta. com or call 649-941-5851"

McCOLLUM & NEWLANDS

ADDRESS CHANGE NOTICE April 4, 2011 TO: THE GENERAL PUBLIC

Please be advised that our address has been changed from: Market Place, Suite C-12 P. O. Box 678 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands to 1 Caribbean Place P. O. Box 678, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands

Seven Stars Resort, Grace Bay

JOB OPPORTUNITY Is now recruiting for the following positions; suitably qualified Belongers who possess the requirements listed below are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates should possess luxury resort experience, be out-going and friendly, with a professional demeanor and must be fluent in English, be a team player with a strong work ethic, available for work on public holidays and weekends.

Salaries are based on experience and qualifications. Working hours are flexible.

Serviceman

• 5 years service in unarmed combats – such as control & restraint techniques, crowd control, crowd dispersal and incident handling • Trained to protect and guard the key installations • Ability to communicate with fellow serviceman • First Aid training • Must be service driven with proven ability to complete multi-tasks under pressure Closing Date : April 28th, 2011 Suitable qualified candidates should apply in writing or send resume Monday – Friday 9am-5pm

Management Seven Stars Resort, P.O Box 603, Grace Bay Road, Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands, British West Indies Email: recruitment@sevenstarsgracebay.com Website: www.sevenstarsgracebay.com Telephone: (649) 333 - 7731 Fax: (649) 941 - 8601

Our new Fax number is: 649 941 4561.

Please make note of the above information and direct all correspondence to us at our new address. Thank you.

MATERIAL TESTING ENGINEERING LTD. Is seeking the following position:

Office Data Analyst

• Provide administrative support to the QC Engineer and Director of the company.

• Duties Include: • General clerical and construction inspection based work • The candidate must have an extensive knowledge of asphalt, soil and concrete standards per Canadian (CSA), US (AASHTO) and British (BRE) test methods for proper liaising, reporting and analysis.

• Person must be computer literate, experience in producing general arrangement and must be a team player with the ability to work late hours, work alone and meet deadlines Salary commensurate based on qualification and experience Please email CV to atolleson@tollesonltd.com or call 649-941-3324 between the hours of 8:30am until 5:00pm or submit to The Labour Office, Providenciales

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! the largest readership in the turks & caicos

36

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

RANSCUIT MISSICK

SUNNY REEF LTD.

Is looking for a

Labourer

Candidate should possess a busy restaurant experience, be out-going and friendly, with a professional demeanor and must be fluent in English with excellent communication skills, be a team player with strong work ethic, available for work 0n weekends and holidays. Working hours flexible. Salary base on experience and qualifications.

SERVER

To work 5 days per week.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 231-7901

• 2 Years experience with Micro POS System and working at a busy restaurant in a lead position • Energetic and excellent customers service skills • Fluent in English, written and verbal • POS MICRO SYSTEM

2ToLaboUrers work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 941-7597

On any island in the Turks & Caicos at $10,000 per acre, or $400,000 total. Can be marsh or wetland and remote.

Please contact Nina Siegenthaler at Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty at nina@ tcsothebysrealty.com or 649 231 0707

POSITION AVAILABLE -30TH JUNE, 2011

Domestic Worker

KITCHEN HELPER

• 4 years in a busy kitchen, must be able to work under pressure.

• Fluent in English oral and verbal • Must have knowledge of Asian and basic prep food.

• Must be able to work 6days a week.

• Must be able to work in a busy restaurant and follow instruction • Heavy duty kitchen ware to wash • Must speak and write English • Knowledge of basic kitchen operation

JOCELYNE CADET DECIUS Is seeking a

Labourer Salary $5.00 per hour. To keep house while owner is off island.

Must be able to do general cleaning. Must be trustworthy and reliable. Must be able to work independently. Must be willing to work flexible hours

Deadline for applications is May 14th, 2011

Contact 241-0777

Gardener/ Handyman/ Labourer Required

Daily duties include raking, cleaning, small repairs, gardening, painting, etc must have valid driver’s license. Belongers need only apply. Hourly rate is $6 per hour.

Contact John at 941-4634 or fax to 941-4664

6945

LUCHIANO LAWRANCE

SAURICIO MILLS

Is looking for a

Is looking to hire a

Labourer Labourer

Required 6 days weekly. Wages $200 per week. The Successful applicant must have good knowledge of all housekeeping work including cooking as well as child care.

To work 5 days per week. Salary $40.00 per day.

For an interview or appointment phone Sandy Lightbourne at 231-1092.

Resumes and references required. Applications would be considered from Blongers only and must be received by 13th May, 2011.

6934

Contact 241-4302 P & A CONSULTANCY

ALCIDE CASTAN Is looking for a

Labourer To do general cleaning and yard maintenance. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Is currently seeking qualified applicant to fill the following positions on behalf of our clients:

3 Domestic Workers

– salary $5.50 per hour

3 Labourers – salary $6.00 per hour.

6907

Contact 241-0550

• 4 years experience in busy restaurant • Must be able body and energetic, fluent in English, Spanish and verbal .

• Must be able to cook French cuisine • Working hours 6 days a week.

Human Resource Manager. PO.Box 811, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

Looking for 40 acres of land

On behalf of our client is looking to employ

COOK

Contact 941-7597

To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

6935

P & A AGENCY

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

Contact 241-2369

Island Elevators Ltd.

Sail Provo Is looking for a

Requires a fully qualified

Elevator Technician • Must have 15 years experience in the installation, maintenance and adjustment of commercial and residential elevators.

• Wages/Salary ranging from $15.00 to $20.00 per hr depending on level of experience

Please fax resumes to 941 7626.

License Captain To sail their 52 inch Catamaran with 10 plus years experience in day charter excursions.

Interested person

Contact 946-4783

6932

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

April 30 - May 6, 2011

April 30 - May 6, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports International

37

Renault driver Robert Kubica leaves Italian hospital accident he suffered while competing in the Ronde di Andorra only three days after setting the fastest time at the first 2011 pre-season Formula 1 test in Valencia.

While Nick Heidfeld is acting as his stand-in at Renault, Kubica has been slowly recovering from injuries that could still prevent him from returning to the sport.

Renault team doctor Dr Riccardo Ceccarelli warned last month that it was impossible to predict when Kubica might resume racing, but the Polish driver is remaining positive about his progress.

“My recovery is moving in the right direction,” Kubica said in a message to his fans on the Renault website.

“The mobility of my hand is limited

Lorna Lightbourne Is looking for a

Domestic Worker To work 5 days per week.

Salary $175.00 per week.

Contact 241-4721

but this is pretty normal in this kind of situation, because the connected arm muscles are still very weak due to the long period of immobility.

“Things are definitely improving day by day. [After resting in Monaco] I’ll move to Dr Ceccarelli’s facilities in Italy where I will start a deep rehabilitation programme.”

The hospital statement added: “Through scheduled appointments, the driver will continue to be monitored by the doctors who have treated him at Santa Corona.”

Despite a few reliability issues, Renault have made a promising start to the season as Vitaly Petrov claimed third in the first race in Australia, with Heidfeld achieving the same result in the second race in Malaysia.

Is looking for a

Domestic Worker To work 5 days

Duties include:

• Develop condo/hotel concepts oversee development and open property • Manage day to day operation of two real estate developments, including

SANDY POINT MARINA Is looking for a

Domestic Worker To work 5 days

per week salary $5.00 per week.

Contact 242-8026

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Requirements:

HI-GG’S RESTAURANT AND CAFÉ

Luewell Construction

DEL MAR DEVELOPMENTS LTD.

• BA/ BSC Degree or equivalent • Plus MBA, Computer Degree or equivalent • 10 years post qualification experience in real estate development • 10 years of international multi-unit property experience • Solid training in all areas of Accounting from A/P, A/R, General Ledger, Credit, Collections, Audit, Inventory Control, Budgeting, Costing • Advanced knowledge and skills in computer systems and report generating software • Thorough understanding of HOA contracts and contract management • Ability to design condo/hotel concept and take it through design phase, construction stage and through to opening launch

Polish Kubica was injured when he crashed while taking part in a rally in Italy

accounting department and corporate property • Production and presentation of detailed financial reports including budgets, forecast monthly, quarterly and annual revenue streams • Closely monitor corporate performance and introduce changes or rationalize cost in order to achieve monthly, quarterly and annual budgets and forecasts • Actively involved in yield management and revenue enhancement • Introduce internal audits and controls • Construction monitoring and overseeing all aspects of opening of new developments • Accountable for all operational and financial management of developments and resorts • Create and maintain strong relationships and positive communications with stakeholder groups, owners, suppliers and community members Salary commensurate with experience $50K - $75K

Send CV and references to Del Mar Developments by email at delmardevelopments@ gmail.com suitable applicants will be contacted for an interview

6912

per week. Salary $7.00 per hour.

Contact 946-7092

6947

TURKS & CAICOS GLASS LTD. Is seeking to employ

Two Labourers @@Must have some experience with glass work @@Must have a good character @@Must be able to work long hours and some holidays @@Basic wages $7.00 per hour

Contact 946-4403

6948

Call today to advertise

946-4664 OR EMAIL

tcnews@tciway.tc WARD’S CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients Villa Del Mar and Southwind Millwork is looking to fill the following positions:

Maintenance Mechanic Air Condition Mechanic

Cabinet Maker 6915

RENAULT’S Robert Kubica has been released from the hospital where he has been recovering from serious injuries after his rally accident in February.

Kubica has spent 10 weeks at the Santa Corona Hospital in Italy after suffering a partially severed hand and multiple arm and leg fractures.

“His condition is good,” read a statement from the hospital.

On Thursday, Kubica said he would go home to Monaco for a short rest before starting a rehabilitation programme.

“I am starting to feel a lot better,” said the 26-year-old, three days before he was discharged. “My strength and weight are increasing.”

Kubica was forced to undergo four surgical procedures after the

Must be able to work 6 days per week salary $7.00 per hour.

Contact 343-9202

38

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

CAS wants Alberto Contador verdict before Tour de France THE COURT of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has named a three-man panel to hear Alberto Contador’s doping case and expects a verdict before July’s Tour de France.

CAS has chosen Israeli lawyer Efraim Barak to chair the panel, which includes Quentin Byrne-Sutton of Switzerland and Germany’s Ulrich Haas.

Contador was cleared by the Spanish Cycling Federation of a positive clenbuterol test during the 2010 Tour.

The International Cycling Union and World Anti-Doping Agency have appealed.

CAS has not fixed a date to hear the case but said in a statement: “The written proceedings in this matter are likely to be concluded at the end of May. “The CAS envisages to hold a hearing in June, which would allow the settlement of the dispute before the end of June.”

Under CAS regulations, each party in a dispute can choose an arbitrator to work with the courtappointed chairman.

Contador’s legal team selected Haas, while the UCI and Wada picked Byrne-Sutton.

The Spaniard can ride until CAS hears the case, but he faces a possible two-year ban and being stripped of his 2010 Tour de France victory if the Lausanne-based court finds against him.

Should CAS rule against Wada and the UCI, the 28-year-old will be free to defend his title; the 2011 race starts on 2 July.

Contador tested positive for the

Alberto Contador would know his faith before July’s Tour de France

banned drug clenbuterol - he had minute traces of the drug in his urine samples - days before his third Tour de France win, in July 2010.

Clenbuterol, similar to the asthma drug salbutamol, is used to treat breathing disorders as a decongestant and bronchodilator. It causes an increase in aerobic capacity, blood pressure and oxygen transportation, and speeds the rate at which fats are burned.

The Spanish federation accepted Contador’s explanation that he had inadvertently consumed the drug in contaminated beef.

The World Anti-Doping Agency regards clenbuterol as a zero-

tolerance drug, though its rules allow athletes to escape a sanction if they prove “no fault or negligence” on their part.

The UCI announced last September that Contador was provisionally suspended and asked the Spanish federation to investigate.

The federation’s disciplinary committee originally proposed a one-year ban for Contador in January 2011, but his legal team then offered new evidence and he was cleared to race three weeks later.

Days before the decision, Spain’s Prime Minister, Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, had said that there was “no legal reason to justify sanctioning Contador”. (BBC)

April 30 - May 6, 2011

India appoint Fletcher as cricket coach WORLD CUP WINNERS India have appointed former England boss Duncan Fletcher as coach on a twoyear contract.

The 62-year-old succeeds South African Gary Kirsten and becomes their fourth successive foreign coach.

Fletcher won a record eight consecutive Tests for England in 2004 before guiding the team to a long overdue Ashes success in 2005.

England coach Andy Flower was the Indian board’s first choice but he was unwilling to uproot his family.

Former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming, now coaching Indian Premier League side Chennai Super Kings, was another possible candidate.

But it is thought Flower, also from Zimbabwe, was always reluctant having settled in England. Fleming was viewed as a long shot, and had publicly distanced himself from the role.

Michael Vaughan, the former England captain who formed a close bond with Fletcher during their most successful period, tweeted: “Great coach who will work well with [India captain Mahendra] Dhoni.

“Duncan will work well with all the talent. His biggest challenge will come from the media. He has never really understood how it works.”

Fletcher’s first major assignment with India, the number one Test side, will come when they tour England from mid-July for the summer’s eagerly awaited tour. It features Tests at Lord’s, Trent Bridge, Edgbaston

India appoint Duncan Fletcher as coach for a two-year period ahead of tours to West Indies in June and England in July.

and The Oval, plus one Twenty20 international and five one-day internationals.

Leading up to that is an Indian tour of the West Indies in June, featuring one Twenty20 international, five one-day internationals and three Tests. Fletcher may not be involved in that.

“He may not join the team in the West Indies as he has some prior commitments,” Board of Control for Cricket in India secretary, N Srinivasan, said.

New Zealand’s former Test captain John Wright was the first man from overseas to take the job regarded as the most heavily scrutinised in cricket.

Wright was in the post between 2000 and 2005 before ex-Australia skipper Greg Chappell took over for two years.`

Barcelona’s Lionel Messi joins the greats – opines former Everton and Scotland winger

Lionel Messi scored two goals over Real Madrid.

BARCELONA’S Lionel Messi was just like Diego Maradona at his very best in the 2-0 win at the Bernabeu.

“There just isn’t any argument anymore. I think Pele, Maradona and Messi are the three best footballers the world has seen. Even considering the talents of players like Zidane, those three are a little bit above the rest,” Pat Nevin former Everton and Scotland winger stated Messi has cut through the entire Real Madrid defence in the Champions League semi-final first leg - one of the most important games of the season - for his second goal.

He added that the Argentine sees things other players just don’t, even the likes of team-mates Xavi and Andres Iniesta.

Messi was kept quiet in the first half but was absolutely sensational as soon as the space opened up.

“That space developed for two reasons: Firstly, because of Pepe’s sending-off, which I thought was harsh as he got a little bit of the ball in his challenge with Dani Alves.

Secondly, it may be Real Madrid against Barcelona but these guys are only human. When time goes on and players get tired, space appears.

Fantastic players, like those in the Barcelona attack, can be devastating when that happens.

Once the first goal went in on 76 minutes and with Madrid a man down, I think Barcelona smelt blood.

They sensed they could all but finish the tie after one match.

It was a dangerous game for Mourinho. I think he chose to play for a 0-0 draw because he knew that if Barcelona scored an away goal his side would struggle to get through.

Mourinho’s tactics are not

always the most sophisticated - and I am not sure his teams know how to go and attack teams, especially Barcelona.

If we look back to his most effective days when in charge at Chelsea, he played a battering ram up front in Didier Drogba and two quick men down the sides in Arjen Robben and Damien Duff.

Right now, I cannot see any way back for Real. But if there is one manager who can get it back, it is Mourinho.

However, I am sure some of those Real fans who left early will be discussing his future and it will be interesting to see who will be managing at the Bernabeu next season.

Real will put up with negative tactics if they deliver success but they won’t if they don’t.” (BBC)

April 30 - May 6, 2011

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

39

Barcelona threaten Mourinho action after post-match ‘rant’

Chauncey Billups (photo: Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post)

Knicks bring Billups back for $14.2 million CHAUNCEY BILLUPS is back in the fold for the Knicks next season, but there is no guarantee he will finish the year with them.

Yesterday’s decision not to buy out Billups, despite his nightmarish, injury-wrecked playoffs, is a nobrainer on several levels.

Billups’ trade value could be significant next season if the Hornets put pending free agent Chris Paul on the block at the trade deadline or the Magic try to trade Dwight Howard before he reaches free agency next summer. The Knicks have a paltry amount of trade chips

as it is.

Billups will make $14.2 million next season, an expiring contract for a player still considered among the top 10 point guards in the NBA. In another scenario that Billups would love, the Knicks could deal Billups back to his hometown Nuggets this summer in an attempt to get back restricted free agent Wilson Chandler and Raymond Felton, neither of whom is happy in the Rocky Mountains. The Knicks, as reported in yesterday’s Post, have an interest in trying to woo Chandler back to New York.

2012 London Olympics heads for sellout

MORE THAN 1.8 million people have tried to buy over 20 million tickets for the London 2012 Olympics, organisers said Wednesday.

The initial application deadline was extended by an hour to cope with the increased demand for the 6.6 million tickets which are actually available.

Organisers said that over 50 per cent of the 650 sessions across 26 sports are oversubscribed and tickets will be allocated by automated ballots.

With 95 per cent of the tickets purchased by British nationals, the sports which are already a sell-out are, in the main, where home hopes rest for gold medals.

Track cycling, where four-time Olympic champion Chris Hoy will bid to add to his tally, joined triathlon, rhythmic gymnastics, modern pentathlon, equestrian cross country and both the opening and closing ceremonies in being immediately oversubscribed.

The majority of sessions in

swimming and tennis, which is being held at Wimbledon, will also go to ballot.

London 2012 chairman Sebastian Coe said: “We are thrilled with the response right across the board, in all sports and all sessions.

“Certain events have seen massive demand for example the opening ceremony, which is more than 10 times oversubscribed,” he added.

The high take up will be a relief for organisers, who have budgeted to raise £500,000 ($826,153) from the sale of tickets as it tries to raise £2B ($3.3B) from the private sector to stage the Games.

The application process lasted six weeks, with prices ranging from £20 ($33) to £2012 ($3,324) and organisers said Wednesday that there will be further opportunities to apply for remaining tickets later this year.

Britain last staged an Olympic Games in 1948 and the bulk of the sites, including the main stadium where the athletics will take place, are based in East London. (CNN)

Barcelona may report Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho to UEFA for his astonishing tirade after their all-Spanish Champions League semifinal on Wednesday.

A fractious game at the Bernabeu Stadium was won 2-0 by Barcelona, both goals coming after Real defender Pepe had been sent off by German referee Wolfgang Stark.

Lionel Messi’s double saw Barca plant one foot in the final, but after the match Mourinho -- who was sent to the stands after the red card for his ironic applause at the referee -- suggested that UEFA shows favoritism towards Barcelona.

He claimed Barca’s relationship with world children’s charity UNICEF, and with Spanish football federation president Angel Maria Villar, contributed to their “power” and that the return leg next week was “mission impossible.”

Barcelona’s official website reported Mourinho as saying: “Josep Guardiola is a fantastic football coach, but he has won one Champions League which would embarrass me after the scandalous goings on at Stamford Bridge and this year if he wins it again it will be after the scandalous goings on at the Bernabeu.

“I don’t know if it’s the UNICEF publicity or the friendship of Villar at UEFA, where he is vice-president, I don’t know if it’s because they are so nice, but they have got great power.

The rest of us have no chance.”

Now Barca say they will meet on Thursday to consider whether to pursue a complaint to soccer’s European governing body.

Jose Mourinho gestures at the referee prior to being sent to the stands during Real Madrid’s defeat to Barcelona. (CNN)

A statement from the club read: “Barca’s legal department will study the declarations made by Jose Mourinho following his team’s 0-2 defeat at the Bernabeu on Wednesday night to determine whether to refer them to UEFA. “In the post match press conference, Jose Mourinho severely criticized the referee Herr Stark and insinuated that UEFA treated Barca favorably. The club’s legal department are now studying whether to take his remarks to the UEFA Disciplinary Commission.”

The statement said the board of directors would be meeting on Thursday to discuss the matter before holding a press conference afterwards.

The build-up to the match had been dominated by a war of words between Mourinho and Guardiola, and the game itself was an incendiary affair, which included a halftime scuffle between players from both sides.

Barca’s players have been criticized for the pressure they put on the referee during the match but Guardiola refused to be drawn on Mourinho’s outburst, telling reporters: “I have nothing to say.”

Mud-slinging continued between the players, however, with Real striker Emmanuel Adebayor telling Spanish newspaper AS: “Whenever you play against Barca, whenever you touch them, they are on the floor crying like a baby.” (CNN)

Chan breaks figure skating record PATRICK CHAN, a 20-year-old figure skater from Toronto, set the new standard for excellence in his sport this week, breaking three world records en route to winning the men’s world championship in Moscow.

First, he set the short-programme record on Wednesday with a score of 93.02. Then, on Thursday, he obliterated the long-programme record with a 187.96 and set the new standard for figure skating perfection with the highestever overall score of 280.98.

Although he finished a disappointing fifth overall at the 2010 Games in Vancouver, Chan’s latest achievements – and at such a young age – bode very well for him at the 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia. (themarknews.com)

Patrick Chan of Canada competes in the Men’s Short Program during the 2009 ISU World Figure Skating Championships at Staples Center March 25, 2009 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jeff Gross)

40

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

April 30 - May 6, 2011

Jamaica defend CARIFTA Games title CATHERINE HALL, St James — Jamaica rolled to yet another regional junior track and field championship this week as they topped the medals tables at the 40th Lime CARIFTA Games that came to an end at the Montego Bay Sports Complex on Monday night.

Despite winning only 66 medals, Jamaica dominated the final session in front of a soldout grandstand on a day that was overcast and cool, in contrast to the brilliant sun and heat of the previous two days.

Jamaica’s head coach Leacroft Bolt told the Observer the team had performed above expectations and said he was pleased by how the youngsters acquitted themselves.

“There were no disappointments this week,” he said. “Given the time we had to work with, we did very well.”

Bolt singled out newcomer Jevaughn Minzie who he said volunteered to run the 4x400m an hour after the 200m final as well as Gleneve Grange, who he said took a “calculated gamble” with her taking part in four events including the Pentathlon.

The home team ended the threeday event on a high, winning three of the four 4x400m relays with only the Under-20 boys, who finished third, failing to get the gold.

The Under-20 girls quartet

Bahamas athletes who competed at the Carifta Games (picture: Tribune)

30-medal haul for 70-member Bahamas Carifta team Jamaican athletes celebrate after defending their regional title at the LIME CARIFTA Games at the Catherine Hall Sports Complex in Montego Bay last night. (Photo: Bryan Cummings)

smashed the meet record with a time of three minutes 31.47 seconds, under the previous three minutes 31.90 seconds held by Jamaica since 2006.

The team of 400m winner Olivia James, who led off with 51.54 seconds, Jeneve Russell (53.60), 800m winner Semoya Campbell (53.35), and Chris-Ann Gordon (52.75) beat Trinidad and The Bahamas.

The Under-17 girls team of Kissi-

Ann Brown (53.53), Yanique McNeil (53.75), Kimone Green (57.40), and Peta-Gay Williams (56.39) ran three minutes 41.33 seconds as Barbados and The Bahamas took the other medals.

The boys Under-17 team of Kadeesh Willis (47.64), Minzie (48.51), Keneil Harrison (48.38) and Rohan Walker (50.34) ran three minutes 15.14 seconds to finish ahead of Trinidad and The Bahamas.

(Jamaicanobserver.com)

Usain Bolt goes into the restaurant business HE MAY be the fastest man on the planet but Usain Bolt has learned that setting up a global restaurant chain can be a marathon rather than a sprint.

The Jamaican’s latest commercial venture, a trendy sports bar and eatery called “Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records” (geddit?), has recently opened for business in his home city of Kingston, prompting a tweet from the great man: “Tracks & Records will blow u away … just remember Usain told you first”.

But the venue, which features a bar and lounge area, a merchandise shop and “multiple dining destinations”, had been scheduled to open before the end of 2010 – a delay which has had a knock-on effect on Bolt’s plans for global expansion.

The double world record-holder and his commercial partners, Kingston Live Entertainment, had hoped to open a branch in London in time for next year’s Olympics, where Bolt will be defending his 100 and 200 metres titles, but his Londonbased agent, Ricky Simms, says that is now highly unlikely.

“Things have taken a bit longer than expected so I don’t think there is going to be time for that before the Olympics,” says Simms.

“But it could well happen after 2012. I know Usain is looking at opening bars in London and New

ANTHONIQUE Strachan said the Bahamas simply went to “collect” what they went to Jamaica for when she led the BTC 70-member team to an impressive showing at the 40th Lime Carifta Games in Montego Bay. Producing the first sprint double since Exuma’s Shandria Brown did the feat in 2002 and joining the elite field of four, inclusive of Pauline Davis-Thompson (in 1984) and Debbie Ferguson-McKenzie (in 1994 and 1995), Strachan clocked 11.38 seconds in the 100 metres and 23.17 in the 200 to highlight the Bahamas’ 31-medal tally.

Strachan was eventually named the Austin Sealy award winner as the most outstanding athlete at the meet after she tied Jamaican Veronica Campbell-Brown’s 2001 games record of 22.93 set back in the preliminary rounds.

“Everything was good going through the race, but I guess I will

come back next year and get the record again,” said Strachan in an interview after her 200m final. “The Bahamas’ aim was to come to collect and I guess I came here and collected what I came here for,” she added.

Strachan, who helped the Bahamas to reap all but the under20 boys 100, was the first Bahamian since Ferguson-McKenzie to capture the award that was named in honour of the founder of the games.

There was a long wait at the end of the games before the final medal count was released as there was a protest in the under-20 boys 4 x 400 relay that saw the Bahamas spoil Jamaica’s bid to win all eight relays.

The Bahamas had a total of eight gold, 11 silver and 11 bronze and ended up in third behind Barbados, who accumulated 27 medals, inclusive of nine gold, eight silver and 10 bronze. Jamaica dominated the event with 66 medals, including 33 gold. (tribune242.com)

Usain Bolt has recently opened a restaurant in Jamaica

York.”

Bolt, who has been keeping a low profile during his pre-season training period, is expected to front up to the media for the official opening of his Kingston bar in the next week before he turns his attention to tracks and records of a different kind.

After a low-key, injury-hit season last year, he promises he will be back to his best this summer as builds towards the defence of his sprint crowns at the World Championships in Daegu, South Korea, in August.

He opens his Diamond League campaign at the Rome Golden Gala

on May 26, where he will need to hit the ground running as he takes on countryman Asafa Powell and French sprint prodigy Christophe Lemaître over 100 metres.

The early-season showdown is attracting such worldwide interest that meeting organisers have had to lay on an overspill media hotel.

Faced with such a tough opening race, Bolt may well opt to stretch his legs closer to home at the Kingston Invitational on May 7 though any decision, says Simms, will be left to Bolt’s coach, Glen Mills. (telegraph. co.uk)

Monterrey’s players celebrate their first CONCACAF Champions League title.

Monterrey stun Real Salt Lake to claim CONCACAF crown MONTERREY claimed the CONCACAF Champions League title as Humberto Suazo’s goal in first half stoppage time gave them a 1-0 win over Real Salt Lake in the second leg of the final Wednesday night.

Real Salt Lake secured a 2-2 draw in the first leg in Mexico and looked

set to become the first MLS side to win the North American title since LA Galaxy in 2000, but came up short on their home ground.

The 3-2 aggregate victory sends Monterrey into the FIFA Club World Cup on December 8-18 in Japan where they will compete against other continental club champions.

April 30 - May 6, 2011

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Some of the TCI athletes who competed at the CARIFTA Games. (Photo compliments of LIME)

41

A proud group of Turks and Caicos Islanders cheer on the athletes. (Photo compliments of LIME)

Williams and Missick might soon be sponsored by LIME Mrs. Williams accepts Delano’s gift from General Manager of LIME Drexwell Seymour. (Photo compliments of LIME)

REGIONAL telecommunication giants LIME, the sponsors of the 40th CARIFTA Games, will attempt to get Delano Williams and Domanique Missick under its banner according to information from the local agency.

Williams and Missick claimed gold medals in the 200M sprint and high jump events respectively, which propelled TCI into sixth place in this year’s championships.

To celebrate the island chain’s performance at the Games LIME

led TCI’s charge at the Gustavus Lightbourne Sports Complex.

General Manager, Drexwell Seymour spoke about the pride that he felt: “I am proud as a Turks and Caicos Islander of the performance of our young people and we commend them for the extraordinary performance that placed TCI in 6th position overall at the CARIFTA Games.” He continued: “LIME is a proud sponsor of the local TCI CARIFTA team as well, by sponsoring the team’s uniforms. LIME

has also invested in the CARIFTA Games with a regional sponsorship of $400,000 for two years. We are proud of you. Go Team TCI! Go LIME!” LIME gave the gold medallists a BlackBerry Torch with a year’s free data; a laptop with free internet for a one-year period. This is valued at over $2600 per athlete. Delano Williams was not present at the event, but his mother accepted his accolades on his behalf. The other athletes and the coaches also received a token from LIME.

LEAGUE PLACEMENT MEDALS WOMEN’S FOOTBALL LEAGUE: 1st place Net Rockers FC 2nd place AFC Hurricanes 3rd place Revolution FC

CUP TROPHY

1st place AFC Hurricanes

SPECIAL AWARDS

Dukens Dorisca (M) – AFC National Marco Fenelus (M) – AFC National Barrington Somers (M) - SWA Sharks Syed Hassan (F) – SWA Sharks Bobby Kwatt (F) – AFC Academy Lenford Singh (F) – Provopool FC Coach of the Season: (Selected by Technical Director) Jon Flanagan – AFC National

SENIOR MVP – Jacinda Alfrena, Giselle Wright, Patrice Senior (two awardees) JUNIOR MVP – Kadine Delphin and Josul Noel MOST IMPROVED PLAYER – Kadine Delphin, Christina Hinds and Arnell Taylora (Willandra Elliott received special mention in this category) PLAYER OF THE SEASON - Christina Hinds, Chanille Butterflied and Josul Noel BEST GOAL KEEPER – Betha Belle and Amelie Speer TOP GOAL SCORER – Jancilia Cox

Top Scorer:

MEN’S FOOTBALL LEAGUE AWARDS

John Beckford – SWA Sharks Marco Fenelus – AFC National Syed Hassan – SWA Sharks Bobby Kwatt – AFC Academy James Rene – AFC National Winner: James Rene

Dream team: (selected by MFL President and Technical Director) Mathurin Edelaire (GK) – AFC National Jacques Ettiene (D) – AFC National William Noel (D) – AFC Academy Marc-Donald Fenelus (D) – AFC National James Rene (D) (Capt.) – AFC National

Marco Fenelus – AFC National (25 goals – largest individual total on record) Nominations for Young Player of the Season: (Nominated by MFL team managers) Marco Fenelus – AFC National James Rene – AFC National Winner: Marco Fenelus

Nominations for Player of the Season: (Nominated by MFL team managers)

“LIME plans to continue to work closely with athletes to assist them in the development of their athletic skills that should help to give them an opportunity to represent the country at the Olympics,” a release stated.

LIME will also assist them in having the athletes as guests on “LIME TIME” and playing an integral role in the development of young people.

Other sponsors such as Graceway IGA and the Tourist Board had representatives who also spoke highly of the team and encouraged them to remain focused. The team was presented with six months gym membership from IGA and “Destination Turks and Caicos” books from the Tourist Board so that the athletes are able to concentrate on keeping in top form and becoming more knowledgeable as ambassadors for the country.

Mr. John Smith spoke on behalf of the Government and he also expressed words of commendation to the young people who wore the TCI colours with pride.

Director of Sports, Mr. Alvin Parker noted: “We have the talent here in the Turks and Caicos, all we need is the opportunity for our young people to achieve and they can.”

President of the TCAAAs Neroy Kennedy also highlighted several members of the team who had performed well during the games.

Mrs. Rita Gardiner, one of the founding members of the TCAAAs urged those listening that: “We have to provide more funding for sports.”

She added: “The young people can do it, but we have to have the support of the Government and the corporate community as well.”

42

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

April 30 - May 6, 2011

Sports National 2011 CARIFTA Games:

TCI finish sixth ACE SPRINTER Delano Williams and jump king Domanique Missick placed the Turks and Caicos Islands on a pedestal in the 200M sprint and high jump events respectively at the 40th CARIFTA Games last weekend in Jamaica.

The island chain finished with a commendable two gold medals and did fairly well in a few other events, including the 4X100M in which the side placed fifth with a time of 41.71s.

The double first places pushed TCI to a sixth place finish overall on the points table of the regional event.

Only Jamaica, Barbados, the Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago and Guadeloupe finished ahead in the 19-team competition.

RECORD BREAKING FEAT Missick, who broke his national record this year, was amazing in the

Domanique Williams stormed to another national record in the high jump event.

W ireless Lounge Get the latest news on wireless technology, cool applications, useful web sites and much more from TCI’s only 3G wireless provider.

Many people in the TCI carry multiple cell phones from each of the local mobile networks, and some people even hold on to a US phone. With the arrival of Islandcom, TCI’s only 3G network, there is no longer a need to carry multiple phones. While the other guys give you minutes to call on their network and charge you extra to call the other carriers, Islandcom gives you minutes to call ANYONE, ANYWHERE, ANYTIME. Plus all Islandcom to Islandcom calls are FREE of charge and do not use up your minutes.It gets better. Not only can you use your minutes to call other carriers, but also other countries without added long distance fees. You can even add on the 3G US Traveler and use your local Islandcom minutes to call anywhere Stateside and back to the TCI without roaming fees. And for a limited time only - sign up for a one year service agreement and we will give you a FREE PHONE. There’s no better time than now to switch to Islandcom and ditch your Lime, Digicel and US phones!

nly!

eO ited Tim im TR Y US! For a L

TR US ! HONE anY getP EddE an ge FR up to t ign up for a s

otou0 2,y00 nup whem unt.

2, 00 in ut aid acco p0es ts o pmFR inut es EE !

FREE!

BroughtÊtoÊyouÊby

– after Williams and Missick win gold medals – High jumper again breaks national record

April 30 - May 6, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

TCI finish sixth high jump event after he raised the bar with yet another record-breaking performance. The teenager, who reached 2.10M at the Gipson Relays a few weeks ago, surged to 2.15M to take the gold and etch his name in the TCI record books once again.

The youngster’s new record is the same as the 1956 world record by American Charles Dumas. To set the standard within this region he would have to attain the 2.45M set

by Cuban Javier Sotomayor which is a world record that has remained intact since 1993.

200M CHAMPION Williams, who is the fastest TCI athlete in the 200M, showed that he is the current best teenager in the Caribbean at that distance. He edged out Trinidadian Moriba Morain by a split second with a time of 21.04s.

The 17-year-old qualified for the final with a run of 21.14s which was the fastest preliminary time.

He later told the Weekly News that he was a little disappointed with his time, but was nevertheless proud and “felt he represented his country really well”.

The 16-member team which competed at the Games included Ifeanyi Otuonye, who was the lone medal winner last year at CARIFTA (a silver medal in the high jump event). The Jamaica based athlete finished eighth in the U-20 high jump event with a best leap of 1.75M. He then jumped 6.86M for a sixth place finish in the long jump. The Munro College student was not at his best since just a few weeks ago he sailed to 7.15M to claim TCI’s national record in the long jump.

Missick also competed in the long jump, but he finished 11th with a distance of 6.58M. HEPTATHLON OPEN Former National Schools’ Championships champion athlete Anthony Clarke (4032 points) finished 6th in the Heptathlon Open (seven events) while his teammate Kivarno Handfield (3242 points) placed 8th. The gruelling event was won by Barbadian Kemar Jones (4662 points).

In the first event: the 110M hurdles Clarke (16.33s) finished 5th while Handfield (19.07s) placed 8th.

The long jump was a strong event for both athletes as Clarke took third place with a leap of 6.42M while his teammate finished fourth with 6.34M. In the javelin throw (800g) the duo finished at the bottom of the table with Clarke reaching 43.44M for 7th and Handfield 30.29M. Clarke won the 200M dash with a time of 22.86s while Handfield was 8th after clocking 24.43s.

Handfield bounced back in the

high jump with a second place finish of 1.98M while Clarke placed fifth with 1.74M. In the discus throw Handfield did not secure a point because he fouled his attempts while Clarke placed 6th with a distance of 25.26M; in the 1500M dash Clarke (5:26.44) and Handfield (5:27.36) finished 6th and 8th respectively.

PENTATHLON OPEN Two of the three female athletes, Dujuana Fulford and Christina Hinds, took part in the Pentathlon Open (five events). The other female athlete was Jatavia Howell who clocked 13.74s in the U-17 100M. Hinds (1755 points), who was the most outstanding athlete at the National Schools’ Championships, placed 9th in the competition while Fulford (1922 points), who has been a field princess for numerous years, ended with an 8th place finish. The event was won by Martinique’s Audilia Da Veiga (3769 points).

Hinds (17.91s) finished 8th in the 100M hurdles while Fulford (21.45s) placed 9th. In the shot put Fulford (8.95M) placed 6th and Hinds (6.74M) finished 9th. Fulford leaped 1.48M for a 6th place finish in the high jump while her teammate finished in 8th with 1.36M. The long jump event resulted in an 8th and a 9th place finish for Hinds (4.66M) and Fulford (4.08M)

43

continued

respectively. Unfortunately Hinds did not finish the 800M while Fulford clocked 3:02.43m to claim 7th place.

BOYS’ SPRINTS In the Boys’ U-17 100M Dewandre Smith clocked 11.83s while another TCI athlete Javonio Fulford ran 12.27s, but neither made it to the final of the event. In the 100M U-20, TCI Shyon Parker also failed to qualify for the final after he clocked 11.47s in the 100M. The top boy at the Schools’ Championships in Providenciales, Junior Feli-Aimes finished fourth in his heat in the 200M preliminary, but just missed out on the 8th spot for a run in the final after clocking 22.77s.

Parker also ran the 200M (U-20), but he finished out of the top eight with a time of 23.46s.

Feli-Aimes finished fourth in his heat in the U-17 400M. His 50.43s qualified him for the final of the event, but he placed 8th with a run of 50.97s.

In the 800M U-17 event Cliffton Jean finished his run in 2.12.33m, which was below the qualifying mark; also below the mark in the same event, but in the U-20 division was Angelo Germain’s 2.20.08m run.

Jean (4.55.32s) also competed in the U-17 1500M, while Deandro Toussaint finished in 4:50.33m in the U-20 division. Neither of them placed in the top eight.

Delano Williams is the undisputed 200M champion. He broke the national record a few weeks before winning at Champs. Last week he answered all the skeptics with a win at the CARIFTA Games.

TCIFA Award Ceremony:

Butterfield and Rene win “Player of the Season” awards – Fenelus cops two awards

Marco Fenelus and Jancilia Cox finished with the Top Goal Scorer’s awards. (photo compliments of Jancilia Cox)

CHANILLE Butterfield and James Rene captured the “Player of the Season” awards after commendable performances in the Women’s Football League and the Men’s Football League respectively.

The duo and numerous others received their prizes last Saturday in the annual award ceremony of the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association.

Rene, who has shown consistency, also won the award last year, while Butterfield replaces Christina Hinds who held the award during the 2009/2010 season.

In the Women’s League Kadine Delphin was voted as the “Most Improved Player”. Other top performers included Amelie Speer who again emerged as the “Best Goalkeeper;” Giselle Wright

and Patrice Senior-Clayton were both voted as the senior MVP, Kadine Delphin as the junior MVP and Jancilia Cox as the top goal scorer.

In the Men’s League Marco Fenelus retained his title of “Young Player of the Year,” while he received the “Top Scorer” award after having netted 25 goals this season, the largest individual total for a season on record. Fenelus was also nominated for the “Player of the Season” but he lost to Rene.

AFC National’s coach Jon Flanagan was selected by the TCIFA’s Technical Director Matthew Green for the “Coach of the Season” award.

One award that was not given, but should be was to the association

itself. In the last few years, football has emerged to become the hottest and most played sport in the country.

This, along with the success of the TCIFA’s recent recruitment drive, has seen its Academy numbers swell in size, ensuring that many schools and new players to the sport are now competing for the first time. Whole Gospel, Wesley Methodist, Provo Christian School and Shining Stars all made their competitive debuts with impressive performances. The TCIFA had also made a concerted effort to develop the sport at all schools, especially those that have never had football programmes or teams before.

Building on each season’s success, the association has created new leagues and programmes, initiatives designed to encourage newer and younger players to the sport, while keeping those existing, firmly rooted.

This has proved a recipe for success.

44

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

April 30 - May 6, 2011