TCWN December 21- January 3, 2014

Weekly News Volume 27 | No. 51 | December 31 – January 3, 2014

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Interim GOVT

overspent

BY $31m Excess expenditure without statutory approval and accounting officers’ failure to comply with the requirement of the Finance and Audit Ordinance were some of the issues highlighted in a report of the statements for financial year ending March 31, 2012.

PAGE  4

Kiteboarders complete record breaking cross-Atlantic challenge

PAGE  24

Premier Rufus Ewing welcomes the team to the Turks and Caicos Islands

Corruptionaccused developer PAGE demands 7 assets back

TCI in line for another $19m from EU

– Transportation PAGE sector earmarked  7

Dazzling display of talent PAGE at annual  28 Christmas show

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 – January 3, 2014

December 21 – January 3, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 – January 3, 2014

Interim administration overspent by $31m EXCESS expenditure without statutory approval and accounting officers’ failure to comply with the requirement of the Finance and Audit Ordinance were some of the issues highlighted in a report of the statements for financial year ending March 31, 2012.

The report was tabled during Monday’s (December 16) sitting of the House of Assembly by chair of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Sharlene Cartwright Robinson.

Following a summary of the committee’s findings, the Opposition Leader laid out the various recommendations, which are geared towards enhancing accountability and transparency in governance.

The PAC recommends that a Supplementary Appropriations Bill for $31,750,345, which represents 29 per cent and above the approved 2011/2012 budget, be referred to the House for passage sometime in the future as this was not done at the time.

It also advises that accounting officers should maintain up-to-date records in order to produce regular financial operating reports to ensure accurate information is available for management to identify problems as they arise and make informed, proactive and correct decisions.

Cartwright Robinson noted that the TCIG needs a long-term strategy; as such, the committee recommends an upgrade of accounting staff, accounting systems and record as well as improved accounting controls to ensure up-to-date financial reporting.

This will also integrate performance measurements and reporting techniques into the dayto-day management of Government operations, she added.

She pointed that the committee recognised during its deliberations that for year ending March 2012, there would not have been the Public Financial Management (PFM) Ordinance and other financial laws that are now in place, and appreciated that there may be changes going forward which they expect to be realised in the next financial year.

“In conclusion, while the Permanent Secretary of Finance admitted that Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Gardiner at the time failed to communicate with the accounting officers and that the CFO was heavy handed in its approach, the PAC finds that overall expenditure was contrary to the law and the CFO had no legislative authority to override the provision of the Finance and

Audit Ordinance and the financial instruction which was still in existence.”

She continued: “The committee received evidence from the Permanent Secretary of Border Control stating that she was aware that the Finance and Audit Ordinance and the financial instruction were under review, however, the PAC received no evidence that these laws were satisfied or repealed.”

The PAC chair added that the committee is of the view that the environment that existed at the time was so informal that it became conducive for the over expenditure to the tune of $31,750,345.

She reported that accounting officers advised the committee that oral applications for excess expenditure were made and entertained while others advised that written applications were made and no formal approval was given but funds exception was lifted.

“This over expenditure we find occurred without statutory approvals and it should be of great concern to the House and the people of these Islands.”

She added that the committee found after all the evidence hearings that there was no statutory approval for the over expenditure incurred.

Following the submission of the report, Speaker of the House, Robert Hall expressed his disappointment at the manner in which the interim administration handled the affairs of the country.

“I could only say I am quite disappointed to hear that that is the way the interim administration for the greater part conducted the financial affairs of this country, and equally disappointing… to hear the comments you [chair] made about accounting officers.

“We need to take stock, we need to take action,” Hall stated.

FINDINGS Outlining the findings of the report, the PAC chair noted that there appeared to be inadequate controls relating to the over expenditure and that while funds exception were lifted by the treasury, the PAC received no written directive for this to be done.

Additionally, the committee determined that there appeared to be confusion over approval for monies spent caused mainly by failure to create written applications, analysis and approval forms and a failure to follow the formal procedure set out

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 Faizool Deo - Sports Editor (At Large) Daisy Handfield - Staff Reporter Cord Garrido-Lowe - Graphics Consultant (At Large) Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams - Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@yahoo.com, tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com

Chair of the PAC Sharlene Cartwright Robinson

in the laws.

“There seemed to be a lack of preparation and maintenance of records and record keeping, which has led us to unavailability of relevant and pertinent information, necessary to facilitate auditing assessment and investigation…”

She added that this is a major concern and ought to be one for the Government. She also pointed out that the accounting officers who appeared – and who were not in the post at the time – relied on emails of the persons there at that time, as

records within the ministries could not be found.

“I don’t believe there is anything untoward about it; it is just that we are speaking to proper record keeping.

“Some of the accounting officers did not understand accounting concepts such as reconciliation between treasury records and ministries and department records.

“The review indicated that legislative controls were ignored.

The PAC saw reluctance to comply with order requests and those of the PAC.” She also reported that the committee noted a distinct lack of communication within ministries and between ministries, also, accountability and responsibility of accounting officers to provide information and respond to the Ministry of Finance were not well understood and/or adhered to.

“The information before us could be relied on due to the lack of timely reconciliation being done by the accounting general’s office.

“The majority of the accounting officers who appeared before the PAC to give evidence and to assist it in its

work were at best unsatisfactory,” Cartwright Robinson pointed out.

Many of the accounting officers appeared to have total disregard in some instances for accuracy and a willingness to provide information as requested and promised in a timely manner, if at all, she said.

“This confirmed for us, unfortunately the attitude displayed to the audit office which then resulted in a more time consuming exercise of the PAC where we had to be going through evidence that should have been done by the audit department.

“In several instances there was little choice but to recall them more than once and also to make multiple requests for the same information, and to date some information has not been received either in full, in part or at all. The general attitude can only be characterised as nonchalant.”

She reported that the committee also found that the CFO seemed to have acted in a reckless manner without regard for good governance, existing statute or an instrument that empowers him or them to act in the manner they appeared to have acted, and that the evidence supports this finding. (DI)

Gov’t makes nothing from Crown land sale NO MONEY from the sale of a large plot of Crown land on the uninhabited island of Joe Grant Cay will go to the Government.

The entirety of the $4.04 million purchase price has gone to pay off an outstanding $2 million mortgage with interest that the Government acquired when it reclaimed the plot in civil recovery proceedings.

Last week the Weekly News exclusively revealed that the 200 acre plot – previously valued at $50 million - had been sold to a commercial developer two months ago in a transaction that was not made public at the time.

Temple Financial Group pushed through the sale in October to recoup debts passed on to the Government when it took back the land from a corruption-accused developer in 2011.

However when contacted Minister of Finance Washington Misick was unsure as to how much interest the mortgage had amassed and if the Government was to receive any remaining funds.

On Monday (December 16) Laurence Harris, deputy managing partner at Edwards Wildman, the law firm dealing with the civil recovery process, confirmed that all of the money went to Temple.

Cem Kinay and his Star Platinum companies purchased the development rights of about 710 acres on Joe Grant Cay in June 2008.

This included the sale of 200 acres for $3.2 million in order for Kinay to construct a hotel, after the Government’s chief valuation officer said it was worth a massive $50 million.

The transaction followed the allegedly corrupt payment of a $500,000 political donation to former Premier Michael Misick just a year earlier.

All of the land was returned to the Government following lengthy civil recovery proceedings.

“One of the parcels of land was charged to Temple Trust, a local financial institution,” Harris wrote in

Laurence Harris, deputy managing partner at Edwards Wildman, confirmed that all of the cash went to Temple

a message sent to the newspaper via the Governor’s Office.

“The charge was for $2 million plus interest; the borrowers had defaulted and interest was accruing at 18 per cent. TCIG was not willing or able to pay off the charge.”

He went on to say that Temple was entitled to enforce its security by either selling the parcel or suing the Star Platinum companies.

The company decided to apply to the court to sell the charged parcel and obtained permission in July 2013.

“They then proceeded to sell the parcel – TCIG had no involvement in the sale and were not told of it until after it had been agreed in October.

“Temple say that the amount of the charge and interest and their related costs exceeds the whole of the proceeds of sale so TCIG has not received any money from the sale; all the proceeds were therefore retained by Temple.”

He stressed that it is one part of Joe Grant Cay and that no other parcels have any charges on them.

On Thursday (December 19) Colin Kihnke, president of CMK BWI the parent company of Sailrock

Development, confirmed that it purchased the land on Joe Grant Cay in October.

He told the Weekly News in an email: “We are very excited about this incredible opportunity and the additional offering this affords us within the Turks and Caicos.”

The company also owns land on South Caicos and is currently preparing to begin construction on the Villas at Great House.

The former development of remote Joe Grant Cay, located between Middle and East Caicos, was announced in mid-2008.

Construction of the cay’s new hotel and golf course was tipped to provide abundant job opportunities for local residents.

However Turkish-born developer Kinay, who also headed the massive development at Dellis Cay, attracted a wealth of scrutiny during the 2008 Commission of Inquiry.

On June 24, 2010, the development agreement between Kinay’s Star Platinum firms and the Government was terminated.

And that July civil recovery lawyers fought to have land on the tiny cay returned to the Crown along with damages and costs.

In June 2011 at Providenciales Supreme Court, Justice Martin released his judgement in TCI’s first major civil recovery case.

He said that there was “no satisfactory explanation” for a $500,000 political donation made

by Kinay to former Premier Michael Misick.

The judge added that there was “a very strong probability that the money was paid as a bribe in order to ensure that the defendant companies obtained the benefit of the proposed development”.

However, because the defendant did not show up to court to offer his evidence, Martin stressed that “nobody should be declared corrupt”.

Kinay bestowed with Belonger status by Misick’s former Government – has always denied allegations of corruption. (RB)

December 21 – January 3, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 – January 3, 2014

December 21 – January 3, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

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Corruption-accused developer demands assets back FORMER owner of Joe Grant Cay land, Cem Kinay, has demanded that his assets are returned and his name cleared.

In a fiery statement to press on Wednesday (December 18) the corruption-accused developer called for the TCI Government and the Attorney General end their “groundless accusations” against him.

His statement comes just a week after the Weekly News exclusively revealed that a 200 acre plot of Crown land on the cay was sold to a commercial developer for just $4.04 million.

Temple Financial Group pushed through the sale in October to recoup debts passed on to the Government when it took back the land from Kinay in 2011.

Kinay originally paid $3.2 million for the land in 2008 after giving a $500,000 political donation to Michael Misick.

It was claimed that this amount

was far too low and following a lengthy civil recovery process the land was returned to the Crown However the new purchase value of $4.04 million is just $0.84 million more than the price Kinay originally paid six years ago – a fact that has not passed him by.

In his press statement he said that for the past six years he has been living stripped of his basic human rights and assets just because the TCI courts concluded that the political donation he made may have been a bribe.

He said that in reality there was no benefit at all and his companies paid the “true and accurate” value of this land.

The Turkish developer and his Star Platinum companies purchased the development rights of about 710 acres on Joe Grant Cay in June 2008.

This included the sale of 200 acres for $3.2 million in order for Kinay to construct a hotel, after the

Government’s chief valuation officer said it was worth a massive $50 million.

Kinay spoke of a valuation report from independent appraiser BCQS which valued the plot of land at $3.2 million for commercial use.

During the civil recovery case the judge completely dismissed this valuation, he alleged.

This “violated our right to a fair trial, and unfairly favoured the Turks and Caicos Islands Government by omitting what the true valuation report states,” he said.

“For those who doubt that the development of Joe Grant Cay is not innocent, I have only one question: We have paid $3.2 million in 2008 for this 200 acre land, and today, six years later, the same land has been sold for $4.04 million in an open market transaction!

“I ask you what happened to the alleged tens of millions of dollars that the Government and some of our opponents claimed that this land was

supposed to be worth?

“I have the answer: The alleged valuation of this island was a big lie!”

Kinay, who also headed the massive development at Dellis Cay, claimed that Joe Grant Cay’s 200 acre plot was never valued for more than he paid for it.

“There was no favour from anyone for Joe Grant Cay. In fact, we have paid the true value of this land, and the shameless dark forces took away from us alleging the undervalue sale.

“The evidence is before you, the same land is now sold for $4.04 million after six years.”

He said that over the past five years he has been victimised by politics, his assets have been frozen and hundreds of people have lost their jobs.

“I could have developed Joe Grant Cay and created much needed jobs, and further tourism income for Turks and Caicos Islands.”

A red notice application was filed with Interpol for Kinay’s arrest in July

Kinay said that for the past six years he has been living stripped of his basic human rights

2012 in relation to investigations by the Special Investigation Prosecution Team.

“I am calling upon the TCI Government and the Attorney General to end these groundless accusations against me, return my assets, and clear my name as I have done nothing wrong.”

When asked to comment on Kinay’s statement Laurence Harris, deputy managing partner at Edwards Wildman, the law firm dealing with the civil recovery process, said he cannot add to what the judgement said.

The entirety of Kinay’s statement can be seen on the letter’s page. (RB)

TCI in line for another Report on Provo Water $19m from EU Company sale tabled – Transportation sector earmarked THE TURKS and Caicos Islands has secured a further $19 million from the European Union Development Fund (EDF), just weeks after the Government signed a $15 million agreement with visiting EU Ambassador, Paola Amadei.

On Thursday (December 19), Deputy Governor Anya Williams and Minister of Finance Washington Misick - who led a team to Brussels for the12th Overseas Countries and Territories (OCT) Forum held on December 2 to 10 - made the announcement at the Hilly Ewing Building in Providenciales.

“We certainly welcome this news we are working to drawing down from the tenth EDF… which is going to be spent on the business sector, and we are looking towards the first draw down of EDF 11 in 2016.

“The Minister of Finance is already thinking of ways these funds can be used,” Williams told the press.

The money will be disbursed over a two to three year period.

Misick noted that while no firm decisions have yet been made, subject to confirmation by the Cabinet, he has indicated that he would like the funds to be used in the expansion of the transportation sector.

“These funds are extremely important to assist us in the development of our economy and for our budget.”

He added that the draw down on this allocation could overlap with those for the EDF 10, noting that the first drawdown is likely to take place in 2016, which is already a critical year for the TCI in terms of its debt refinancing.

The minister added that the Government is also looking towards participating in regional programme along with Montserrat, the British Virgin Islands and other territories, which could see another $35 million being allocated.

Asked what areas in the transportation sector the $19 million will be plugged into, Misick noted that while this amount is a significant source of support it would not get the country very far in the development of things like bridges or the airport.

“We are very grateful to the European Union for the assistance, but if we are successful in actually growing the economy there will come a time when we could no longer benefit because one of the conditions of the EU funding is that there is a point where our GDP per capita will disqualify us, unless they change the measures.”

He noted that one of the issues he raised while in Brussels was the focus of the Government in trying to develop a regional hub in TCI for both air and cargo transportation.

“And so my idea of how the funds will be used is to see how we can actually move that idea forward.

“At the moment, this is just an indication, because there is still a wide range of discussions that have to take place both locally and with the EU. “The programme has to be properly crafted and it has to make sense and be seen to deliver benefits to the Islands both in the short and the long terms, so I don’t want to concretise any particular project at the moment,” he said.

Currently, the report for the first disbursement from the EDF 10 is being drafted and is expected to be presented in January.

Work on the programmes for the EDF 11 will likely start sometime later next year or in 2015.

Meanwhile, while in Brussels the team also held a tri-lateral meeting with Director of European Aid, Jolita Butkeviche on the current and future EU funded programmes that could benefit the Islands.

They also signed the financing agreement for EDF 10, for which the TCI is expected to receive the first tranche of about $4 to $5 million in March 2014.

The European Union has identified a total of $298 million (€229 million) for overseas territories for the EDF 11, with $19 million being awarded to the TCI, $24 million to Montserrat and $18 million to Anguilla, among other UK overseas territories.

Like the EDF 10, the EDF 11 will provide budgetary support in specific sectors. (DI)

EVEN as the Parliamentary Select Committee has established that former Governor Ric Todd did not act illegally in directing the sale of TCIG’s shares in the Provo Water Company, it did find that he did not act in the best interest of the country.

Opposition Appointed Member, Clarence Selver presented the report of the committee, which was established earlier this year to investigate the sale, to the House of Assembly on Monday, December 19.

TCIG’s minority 46 per cent shareholding in the Provo Water Company was sold to the majority shareholder, Turks and Caicos Water Company for $7.5 million.

“The Governor in exercising his powers, acted contrary to the spirit of the EU agreement and the letter of this agreement resulting in the disposal of shares into the hand of this one company rather than extending ownership in Provo Water Company which the management performance agreement was intended to do,” Selver told members.

He also reported that the committee was hard pressed to find documentation to assist it in its investigations.

“It was during our second meeting that was held on August 20 that we were able to have with us the Attorney General at the time and the former permanent secretary to assist us in trying to determine exactly what went on with those shares.

“The PS gave fair over view of the genesis of the project and the spirit of the agreement between the European Union and the TCIG regarding the disposal of the shares to TC Islanders.”

Selver added that the former PS was of the opinion that the shares were held in trust for the people of the TCI. “The review which was undertaken after three years deemed the project a success. It decided the decision taken by the interim administration to dispose of the shares in the manner that it was done, clearly placed budgetary consideration above the empowerment of TC Islanders.”

He reported that the former AG assisted the committee by providing a copy of the management

performance agreement, dated January 3, 1997.

“He stressed that section 12/3 of that agreement does not create a binding obligation on how the shares ought to be traded.

“And that the Governor engaged the services of a company to analyse the operations of Provo Water Company and advise the Governor as to the monetary value of the shares.

“He expressed the view that the only likely buyer was Turks and Caicos Water Company Limited.”

On examination of the document a certain page which included schedules that were material for the purpose of the committee was omitted, Selver told the Assembly.

He added: “When questioned as to whether the matter of the sale of the shares was discussed by the advisory council, the AG responded that he could not recall.

“It would seem that the level of accountability and transparency that is required for good governance was not closely observed during this period of direct rule by the UK.” He said the committee found

that there was a problem with openness and transparency in the sale especially with regard to the obligations that were placed by the management performance agreement on the parties.

“There was no obligation to have a stock exchange in order to go through with the transaction, so I should also highlight that during this exercise there was the outmost secrecy.

“The parties to the sale of the shares, they had binding agreement not to disclose any information to any third party and not until the whole deal was wrapped up that a press release was made advising the public that the Governor had sold the shares in Provo Water Company for $7.5 million.”

He reiterated the view held earlier this year by the Opposition members that the shares could have been sold locally.

When the motion for the establishment of the select committee to investigate the sale was passed in the assembly earlier in 2013, the Government did not support it. (DI)

May God grant us every grace and blessing – Pastor Monsignor Peter Baldacchino ON BEHALF of my brother priests, Father George Klybus, Father Rafael Velazquez and the Catholic community in the Turks and Caicos Islands, I take this occasion to express best wishes for the Christmas Season and throughout the New Year to all people of good will.

May the God of infinite goodness scatter the darkness of sin and brighten our hearts with holiness.

May he grant us every grace and blessing and keep us safe throughout the coming year.

Pastor and Chancellor of Our Lady of Divine Providence Roman Catholic Church

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 – January 3, 2014

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

Joe Grant Cay sale

LAST week the Weekly News revealed that a commercial developer bought a 200 acre plot of Crown land on Joe Grant Cay for $4.04 million in October, in a transaction that was not made public.

Temple Financial Group pushed through the sale of the land to recoup a $2 million outstanding mortgage the Government accrued when it reclaimed the plot in civil recovery proceedings.

Corruption-accused developer Cem Kinay paid just $3.2 million for the land, valued at $50 million, in 2008 after giving a $500,000 political donation to the PNP party.

However the new purchase value of $4.04 million is just $0.84 million more than the price Kinay originally paid – formerly alleged to be a gross undervalue.

What are your thoughts? Do you think the civil recovery process was worth the cost? Was the purchase price too low? Or maybe you think the original valuation was inaccurate?

Private matter

Why a fall in value?

The purchase price looks fair for a totally undeveloped parcel in the middle of nowhere.

The land was never worth $50 million - that is a joke.

If the buyer invests $20 million on infrastructure it might be worth $50 million but not otherwise.

The sale was a private matter, why should it be made public by the Government? The sale was made public by the real estate firm.

Some of the SIPT valuations are just ‘fantasy island’ valuations.

The question must be asked who was the original valuator, and if he was a well-known valuator with credibility?

The question that must then be asked and answer demanded of the present Governor and his team is how could there have been such a great fall in value?

This speaks volumes for the type of management that has been running this nation while under direct British rule.

Hope for progress

The original value put on this property was grossly over and above what should have been the market price.

The price that the property sold for is more in line with what the true value of this property should be.

The prior price assumes infrastructure such as roads, electricity water, telephone TV services etc which none of these services is

We hope the developer will build a resort and a causeway to Middle Caicos.

This will finally after years of PNP administration make Middle Caicos come alive as the corridor to Joe Grant Cay. The owners of East Wind better not flip their land at the foot of the new causeway.

Grossly overvalued

provided to this property.

If one takes into account the $500,000 being paid to the civil recovery team then the net savings to Government is approximately $300,000.

So in effect we muzzled what would have been a several hundred million dollar development of Joe Grant Cay which would have significantly impacted the economy of Middle Caicos and the Turks and Caicos Islands for a mere $300,000.

When will we get it that this farce of an investigation is only benefitting the British and their closely-linked friends at the expense of the Turks and Caicos Islands and Turks and Caicos Islanders?

I assume that every other property that they claimed to have reclaimed is grossly over value while they take all the cash. Yes, we have been duped again.

Publicity equals objections

I think the original price was overstated, and today’s sale price is too low.

Everything the Brits touch seems to cost us more money!

The civil recovery process has benefitted no one but the cronies of the FCO, Hague and Garlick.

Making it public sooner would have gotten them some objections and they don’t want that, same as Todd changing the law on captive dolphins.

When they do it, it is okay. When we do it, it’s not!

Legal problems

We are pleased the sale went through and we must remember the PNP government had nothing to do with the sale. Therefore it must be legal.

There are however two possible legal problems. Does the mortgage holder have recovery rights when the land was originally sold illegally?

The other problem is the terrific multimillion dollar fees being charged by the British civil recovery law firm based on the few hours put in by attorney Phillips. This is ridiculous.

However it is no excuse for the terrible abuses of the Misick-Hall-Piper government.

No wonder Crown land is under the AG’s office where it does not belong.

Drain on public purse

First off, I believe the person in charge of valuing the lands never knew what they were really worth.

All involved should not be able to have anything to do with land dealings ever again in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

More so the political persons involved should not be able to ever work for TCIG in any capacity.

This country would have truly been the envy of the world, had the persons we chose to do the countries business had done just that.

There will always be some corruption, but the level in which they did it is what has us in this mess.

Cem Kinay unfortunately got caught up just like the other investors during the Iron Mike reign.

I do believe that some of these projects are to be given the opportunity to be completed.

Word of advice for future, always lease the land you could never lose.

As far as the civil recovery they are no better than the people they are investigating, draining the public purse.

 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

Allow His birth to change you – The Right Reverend Laish Boyd “LET us not grow weary in welldoing for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” (Galatians 6:9) The Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands are wonderful places to live. Many things that we take for granted are the envy of other nations.

We have our challenges just like everyone else, and here are some of them: the economy, the rising cost of living, crime, unemployment, immigration issues, the breakdown of community and the fact that we do not have as much respect for each other and for each other’s property as we used to have.

There are two things which we must not forget. Even in these areas

of concern, we are better off than many other places. And most people here are wholesome and positive, and not involved in the negative.

However, although the negative behavior is only being exhibited by a small minority, there are enough negative people and activity for us to be very, very concerned.

Additionally, the economic and other challenges remain great.

Against this backdrop, people tend to be overwhelmed, to be cynical, to be bitter, to throw up their hands in despair, to give up and to say, what’s the use?

In this kind of environment, it is sometimes hard for people to hear

Gov’t appoints new EMS director A NEW Director of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) was appointed this week, according to a Government press release.

Former director Patrick Riel is no longer employed by the Government and instead Hugh Green will be acting in the role.

Desiree L Lewis, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Human Services made the announcement on Wednesday (December 18) in a statement to press.

She wrote: “TCIG is advising all stakeholders to disregard any correspondence(s) from Mr Riel which relate to EMS operations.

“All queries should now be directed to Mr Hugh Green the acting Director of EMS or to Dr Nadia Astwood, Director of Medical Services, Ministry of Health and Human Services.”

Green can be contacted by email at hughmania@yahoo.com or at 347-6818.

Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands

the Christmas message.

God coming into the world as an infant, bringing joy and new life, peace on earth, goodwill to all people, etc.

They scoff at the thought of Christian hope. But this message is still true and still timely. God has done and is doing his work in the world.

God has done and is doing so many wonderful things through the life and faithfulness of boys, girls, men and women who have not lost sight of his goodness in the badness of our world.

As we face the challenges in the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands, and as we face our own personal challenges, let us not give up nor give in.

Ask God to help us to be steadfast. Encourage one another to be steadfast.

Victory over great or impossible odds may not be won instantly or in one action.

Victory is won through perseverance, by

keeping up the little things - through the trivial round and the common task, as the hymn writer said.

Victory is won by our doing good even when no one can see us, by our doing right even when we lose because of it, by our believing in the goodness of God and having faith in the goodness of people, by our realising that the power of good is always more powerful than the power of evil, by our believing that good will always win out in the end no matter how long it takes.

Many will suck their teeth or grunt “hmph!” at this thought, but Jesus, through his life, death and resurrection, and throughout human history, has shown us that it is true.

Good people and good deeds and positive living MUST hold on in the face of impossible odds.

That is one of the hardest things for humans to do in this life – but hoping beyond hope is always difficult.

The joy of the baby Jesus is experienced instantly in the joys and blessings of life.

That joy is also more powerfully experienced when good people persevere in the face of challenge and wrong, when they make mistakes but repent and try to do better, when they fall down but get up every time and press on, when they look back on the day, the week or the year and say, “It was rough. I tried. Many of the problems are still there, but at least I gave it my best, and I will never stop trying.”

This is when the call of Jesus has its full power. This is when the hope of the gospel becomes real.

This is when the gospel is truly lifechanging.

The Most Reverend John Holder, Archbishop of the West Indies and Bishop of Barbados, recently issued a tribute on the passing of Nelson Mandela.

He begins it with the following words: “There are some points in human history when the world comes face to face with the greatest of human possibilities.

“It pauses and it discovers that in spite of all the atrocities of history, in spite of the negatives in human relationships, there is still in each of us a potential for good that can be released, developed and put to work to make the world a better place.”

This is an apt description of what Nelson Mandela stood for, and of what he accomplished in South Africa – in the face of incredible odds.

This reminds us of what our posture should be as we face life in our own two beloved countries.

Jesus came to show us that, no matter what the challenges, there is a spark of him that we can discover inside of us to face the world and to be victorious.

Allow his birth and the message he comes to bring change your life and your environment. Allow him to change you and the world.

The Anglican Diocese of the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands and my family join me in wishing one and all a happy Christmas and a peaceful new year.

December 21 – January 3, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

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Supplementary Appropriations Bill passes parliament amid protests

DESPITE recommendations by the Supplementary Appropriation Committee to delay the provision of further Government spending until February 2014, the bill for the allocation of an additional $945,120 passed the House of Assembly on Monday night (December 16).

Chair of the committee and Leader of the Opposition, Sharlene Cartwright Robinson in presenting the house with the committee’s report pointed out that members found the information before them very complex and incomplete.

Based on the concerns and input of accounting officers, the committee recommended that the supplementary appropriations be delayed until the figures are clarified and adjusted within actual situations in the various government departments and ministries, she told the assembly.

She added that the committee was advised that the budget department is already aware that certain adjustments made are not practical, and expects to assist in the creation of another supplementary to rectify the situation in February 2014 whereby the ministries can request increased funds to cover actual needs.

“In light of what was relayed to the committee through the budget advisor and the accounting officers, the committee believes that the process is faulty and there are too many disputable items of saving identified and therefore can pose problems for departments in the period between now and post supplementary date of February 17,

2014.”

She added that there are also expenditure items that by law are not permitted to be the subject of budget transfer and which result in over expenditure.

“The committee believes the Government would err should we proceed with the Supplementary Appropriations Bill in its current form.”

However, during his presentation of the bill, Minister of Finance Washington Misick said it speaks to the concerns addressed in the report as it relates to its complexity and the completeness of information presented during the review process, as well as lack of consultation and communication the committee pointed to.

He further pointed out that it is extremely important for the functioning of Government to take into consideration the need to absorb all the money that may be available to prevent it from going into the sinking fund, as well as to prevent expenses being deferred to the future that can actually be spent in the current financial year.

“The burn rate of Government expenditure particularly as it relates to personal emoluments are not so high that we would run out between now and January 14, I have been assured of this, so think we can deal with this issue.”

The additional sums required by the ministry and departments in fact totals to $11,831,668.”

He added that $6.2 million is required by the Ministry of Health to

Michael Misick’s arrival imminent – Governor’s Office ON THE heels of accusations from Michael Misick’s family that his return to the TCI is being illegally delayed as the extradition has already been gazetted in Brazil, the Governor’s Office has disputed claims of mistreatment of the embattled former Premier.

Speaking with the Weekly News earlier this week, Governor’s spokesperson, Neil Smith stated that if Misick is not returned sometime during this week, he will be back in the first week of January.

The next plea and directions hearing in the TCI is scheduled for January 6 or sometime during that week, and Smith has advised that it is very likely Misick will need to arrive in the country before that date.

Smith was responding to claims made by Phillip Misick in statements to the local press that despite numerous requests from his brother’s British based attorneys as to when and how he will be transported back to the TCI there has been no word from the TCIG, the Attorney General, the Governor, or SIPT and Helen Garlick on the matter.

“The slow nature in which they are moving to return him home, can only be seen as vindictive and punitive and smacks of unlawful detention, and goes against any and all laws of natural justice and borders on a violation of his constitutional rights,” the older Misick accused.

He continued: “SIPT and their entities must give his family and the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands a reason for the delay in bringing him home and must bring him home forthwith.”

Asked about this accusation of deliberate detention, the Governor’s

meet further cost of services delivery, of which $3 million is historic and $3.2 million is being requested in respect of clinical cost relating to the current financial year.

“The historic amount of $3 million is to cover the cost of an outstanding consumer price index (CPI) adjustment payment to InterHealth Canada for the payment for financial year 2012/2013.”

He further stated that regarding the request for 2013/2014, the anomaly is caused due to communication issues resulting from the receipt of InterHealth Canada’s budget by The Ministry of Health.

According to the minister, InterHealth’s budget was not submitted to the ministry until after the budget had been passed and that is part of the reason why providing for contingency funding is so important.

Meanwhile, Misick stated that additional expenditure is being met by the use of $5 million from contingency funding.

The budget office has reviewed expenditure and identified approximately $3 million in personal emoluments related savings, and a further $1 million is being taken from other expenditure areas where the pace of expenditure would not allow these funds to be absorbed before the end of the fiscal year, he noted.

He added that due to the delay in implementation or the pace of absorption of elements of the capital programme almost $2 million is available to be applied to the recurrent expenditure for the remainder of the year.

“As such, the contribution from the fund has been reduced by this stated amount. This leaves a balance of almost $1 million, or just $945,120 to be funded through the supplementary appropriations.”

The minister explained that the Public Finance Management Ordinance empowers the Governor to establish this fund and that the money being used is not money that has been set aside in a separate account.

It is a provision that can be later

used to meet expenditure, which may not have been identified at the beginning of the budget cycle as opposed to a fund set aside for a specific purpose.

“Part of the motivation for what we have decided to do is the time element and the need to make sure that the money is spent so that it does not end up in the sinking fund.

“It may very well be that when we come back to the house in January 2014 that depending on the revenue generating pace we may be able to appropriate additional sums for particular areas so that we could meet the social and other demands of the country instead of stacking the money away in the sinking fund,” Misick stated.

Meanwhile, Opposition appointed member, Clarence Selver pointed out that what the Finance Ministry is trying to achieve could be better served if they wait a few weeks more and get it done right.

He posited that what was presented as a budget for this financial year 2013/2013 was inadequate and this now appears to be major overhaul.

“Despite taking it to the limit in preparing and presenting their budget at the end of July we knew then just as we know now, they still didn’t get it right.

“I would like to remind the Government that we told you in no uncertain terms that what was presented as a budget does not address the social and development needs or even keep pace with past targets, the Government… was adamant that they had it right and they took full responsibility for the appropriations bill as presented.”

He pointed out that the Government is again making a grave mistake with this action. “It comes down to almost casting pearls before swine.”

Minister of Education, Akierra Missick defending her ministry said the reason for requesting the extra money is to tide it over for the remainder of the financial year and is very necessary.

She listed these necessary items as wages, utilities which could not be budgeted for in July due to late delivery of receipts, national stadium

Under the tree Former Premier Michael Misick

representative said: “We had to wait, the Brazilians held all of the cards.

“There was nothing that Britain could do until it was finally gazetted.

But once it is gazetted it is definitely going to happen; but we have 60 days to move him.

“So just because it is gazetted doesn’t mean that it has to happen straight away.”

Smith said that media reports that Misick has been left to rot in jail as some form of inhuman punishment is not true.

He reiterated statements previously made by the Governor’s Office that until recently Misick has fought his extradition.

“He really did not want to come back; as soon as he realized he was going to be charged, he left the TCI. His actions speak louder than words,” Smith claimed.

It has been close to two months now (October 29) since the Brazilian court ruled in favour of extradition.

(DI)

back rent, and access to school space for children who were not registered during the last school term.

Raising her own concerns was Governor’s appointed member Lillian Misick who expressed her worry as to be monies being allocated to healthcare.

“I would find it extremely difficult to sleep with a good conscience if I support any more money for InterHealth Canada; we have got to find a way to deal with it.”

She questioned where the clinical and financial audit for the organisation which was proposed in July is, and stated that unless she can see some form of improvement in the service they have provided since July, it is hard for her to lend her support for that item in the appropriations bill.

However, Health Minister Portia Stubbs-Smith told the house that is was hoped that the financial audit would have yielded some savings that would enable the cost of the CPI adjustment payment, but that this did not materialise.

“While we recognise the purpose of the NHIP is to act as a statutory organisation of subscribers’ fees to cover the cost of clinical services to the preferred healthcare provider – InterHealth Canada – the NHIP by law has to have its budget submitted and approved four months before the end of each financial year.

“The supplementary amount of $3.2 million was not budgeted for by the NHIP due to the fact that the InterHealth Canada budget arrived after the NHIP budget process.”

She added that contrary to popular belief, the contract management team established by the Government to manage the contract met on Tuesday, December 10, and this was not the first meeting.

“The Government is aggressively reviewing the current contract and steps are being taken to stop the haemorrhaging.”

She said to avoid any reoccurrence of this nature, the ministry has already requested InterHealth Canada’s 2014/2015 budget and it is currently being reviewed by the contract management team. (DI)

By Benneth Williams

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December 21 – January 3, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

We welcome letters from all members of the public on a variety of topics Please note that all submissions are subject to editing in keeping with defamation laws and newspaper style. Letters should be accompanied by the author’s full name, location and phone number. Names will be withheld if requested.

Kinay responds to land sale No more silence Dear Editor, I understand from Turks and Caicos Islands media sources that a 200 acre parcel of Joe Grant Cay has been sold for $4.04m in October 2013 in a transaction that was never made public.

I was sure that one day, the truth about Joe Grant Cay’s true value will come to the light, Today, is my day.

For the past six years, I have been living stripped of my basic human rights and assets just because the TCI courts have concluded in connection with a political donation made to Michael Misick on January 9, 2007, “there to be a very strong probability that the money was paid as a bribe in order to ensure that the defendant companies obtained the benefit of the proposed (Joe Grant Cay) development” disregarding the fact that there was in reality no benefit at all, as we have paid the true and accurate value of this land which was $3.2 million for the same 200 acres parcel back in 2008.

More specifically, on the matter of Joe Grant Cay’s valuation, His Hon Justice completely ignored the Government’s valuation report obtained from BCQS, an independent commercial appraiser who valued 200 acres parcel of Joe Grant Cay, at $3.2 million for commercial use, exactly the amount of money asked by the Government in June 2008, which my development companies have paid in full.

What is more astonishing was the fact that His Hon Judge ruled (para 36, the judgement) “When instructing BCQS to give an alternative valuation, McAllister Hanchell did not tell them of the proposed development, so that their valuation made no allowance for the intended use of the land.”

The Learned Chief Justice has failed to recognise that BCQS’s valuation report specifically stated on page 7 Item 3.5: “It is assumed that planning permission is available for the subdivision of the land for residential plots or for a commercial use.”

By omitting BCQS’s clear statement specifying “commercial use” in its report, The Hon Chief Justice violated our right to a fair trial, and unfairly favoured the Turks

– Open letter to Gov’t officials

and Caicos Islands Government by omitting what the true valuation report states.

Instead, the Hon Chief Justice relied on a series of valuation reports prepared by the Turks and Caicos Island’s own employee Mr Hoza, which are at best confused.

Mr Hoza’s valuation reports valued the 200 acre parcel at a whopping $45 million for commercial use!

For those who doubt that the development of Joe Grant Cay is not innocent, I have only one question: We have paid $3.2 million in 2008 for this 200 acre land, and today, six years later, the same land has been sold for 4.04 million in an open market transaction!

I ask you what happened to the alleged tens of millions of dollars that the Government and some of our opponents claimed that this land was supposed to be worth?

I have the answer: The alleged valuation of this island was a big lie!

Joe Grant Cay’s 200 acre was never valued more than what we paid for. That was the exact reason why many internationally repute valuation companies as well as all the local valuation companies have valued it at the exact value that we paid for it.

That is why both Hon Governor Tauwhare, and later on Hon

Governor Wetherell have approved and executed the sale of this 200 acre land to us for $3.2 million, and that was why the sale was approved by the Attorney General, TCI Invest, ministers, and the Premier.

In fact, there was no “favour” from anyone for Joe Grant Cay. In fact, we have paid the true value of this land, and the shameless dark forces took away from us alleging the “undervalue” sale.

The evidence is before you, the same land is now sold for $4.04 million after six years.

In the past five years, I have been victimised by politics. My assets were frozen and hundreds of people lost their jobs.

I could have developed Joe Grant Cay and created much needed jobs, and further tourism income for Turks and Caicos Islands.

I was denied my fundamental right to a fair trial in the TCI - a red notice application has been filed with the Interpol for my arrest.

I am calling upon the TCI Government and the Attorney General to end these groundless accusations against me, return my assets, and clear my name as I have done nothing wrong.

God Bless, Dr Cem Kinay, Istanbul, Turkey

Dear Editor, Hon Premier, Helen Garlick, Acting Attorney General: You no longer have the right to remain silent!

This sale of Joe Grant Cay, land owned by successive generations of Turks and Caicos Islanders but ripped off during the land adjudication process, is now being taken again. $4 million? Are we, the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, being looked at as fools, idiots, jokers, morose, silly or taking on the blinders mind of the so-called duly elected Government?

What are we Mr Premier, Excellency, or Acting Attorney General?

At a minimum we are talking about 200 acres of Crown land, belonging to the people of the TCI. We are not fools. TC Islanders and residents should not be looked on as fools to be ripped off like this.

If valued at the lowest of $50,000 an acre we yield $10 million.

AG’s Chambers, Director of Public Prosecutions, you need to stop hiding behind the skirts of the Special Prosecutor, Helen Garlick.

Do you know the difference between right and wrong? None of you law enforcement persons and elected officials have the right to remain silent. Opposition must speak.

Where are your codes of conduct?

Please note that all submissions are subject to editing in keeping with defamation laws and newspaper style. Letters should be accompanied by the author’s full name, location and phone number. Names will be withheld if requested.

Send letters to tcweeklynews@gmail.com

The Christmas gauntlet

By David Tapfer interfacing with our neighbours and their children, our extended family.

The trip home started on bad footing when we attempted to return early.

SPACE IS LIMITED!

American Airlines wanted $225 each, ($450 for both) to change the tickets. However it was not the day we wanted it was the day they selected.

To travel our desired day the airline required we purchase two completely new tickets. Our refusal resulted in the seats they had available both days flying empty.

On our original flight home the plane was full. They could have sold those two seats for almost $2,000.

Short sited airline policy netted American Airlines nothing.

We wonder if these ridiculous charges will discourage tourists who decide to stay over and enjoy Grace Bay

Ingrid Williams

We welcome letters from all members of the public on a variety of topics

COMMENTARY

YVETTE and I spent most of the summer attending to family business in the USA. Two close relatives in nursing homes and a son recovering from open heart surgery.

Updates with close friends and children were on our agenda from Ohio to Florida. We moved about easily.

Coming home for Christmas in Conch Bar was a different story, like running the gauntlet.

We lost some sleep and spent extra dollars making the trip home.

Now back in beautiful peaceful grand Middle Caicos we relax

Where is your integrity?

Hon Premier we have seen you grandstand while out of office. You led the civil servants to strike on salary cuts, which were cut by the interim Government, to facilitate your deal, the hospital deal.

Payments had to be made and they came from the pockets of the civil servants and tax increases.

As Premier of the TCI you have had one year to take a stand and your honeymoon is over.

You have to start representing the people on the issues that count.

Your silence is noticed after your Government took the $15 million from the European community and you did not mention anything again about the reserved category of business licensing being removed.

Yet on this land deal, you no longer have the right to remain silent. Your time has come. You need to step up and represent.

Hon Premier you need to speak up because on this and other pressing issues you cannot be silent.

This is no longer the interim government and you cannot get away with blamin’ the Brits.

Power is handed back to you. That is last year’s headlines. It is time to speak to the real issues and take a stand.

or Bambarra Beach a few extra days.

Then our flight was late taking off - 35 minutes after we were due to arrive.

We cleared immigration normally and then it began. Along with the tourists we waited almost a full hour for the luggage to arrive.

Missing and broken luggage dollies were another problem. One unfortunate tourist dumped her luggage - broken dolly wheel.

The line of tourists waited long to clear customs with nothing to declare.

This reminded me of a trip years ago to Grenada while some US troops remained. We waited long but less

time, clearing Grenada customs.

Our Premier still insists we are a first class destination. A PNP minister on our flight left her first class seat and walked right through - first class for PNP ministers, everyone else a long wait.

We cleared customs at 5pm from a flight due to arrive at 2pm.

This caused a stay over on Provo.

We had missed the boat and our ride from Sandy Point to Middle.

Getting the luggage from customs to a vehicle we had waiting for us in the new crude parking lot was a long rough walk, cost a luggage handling charge plus $18 to park in that new terrible lot.

Friends helped us load-unload our luggage on and off vehicles, the boat, then finally in Conch Bar. Handled eight times before we reached home - twice in Florida and six times in the TCI. It’s good to be home.

Please keep your letters to a maximum of 450 words or we may not be able publish it.

December 21 – January 3, 2014

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Chamber of Commerce raises $2,000 from Poor Man’s Luncheon A MASSIVE $2,000 was raised by the Chamber of Commerce during their Poor Man’s Luncheon geared at highlighting the struggles of the poor.

The money raised will go to the TCI Salvation Army to help them to feed the needy during the Christmas holidays.

During the luncheon on Thursday (December 12) at the Seven Stars resort on Providenciales, the attendees were served soup, rolls, lemonade and a cinnamon roll, which are internationally considered as poor people’s food.

Wendy Hill, office administrator for the Chamber of Commerce, said that this made them be thankful that they had food in their cupboards each day, whereas others had none.

The lunch featured a message from Colonel Raphael Mason of the Salvation Army who urged others to promote the awareness of starvation and poverty in the TCI. He said: “Everyone must be made aware and the daily needs of the poor and hungry in Turks and Caicos Islands and around the

Letters

world.

“If we want to keep our island beautiful by nature, we must invest in our future of our children and people of the Islands.”

A representative from Clement Howell High School said that they were grateful for the Feed the Children programme which was established by the Salvation Army.

She said: “It is important to have one nutritious meal daily in order to focus on their school work.

“For only $3 a day, one child can eat one hot meal and knowing this may be their only meal for the day.

“There are still students who are going hungry every day.”

A solo by Nicole Cox which outlined the needs around the world was enjoyed by all.

The Chambers thanked everyone who helped to support the luncheon and wishes everyone a merry Christmas and a prosperous new year in 2014.

Entry for the event was $50 with all proceeds given to the TCI Salvation Army to help feed people in need. (DH)

NEWS 15

Gov’t talks safety with TCI taxi drivers SERVICE, safety and security were all hot topics during a meeting of TCI’s taxi drivers and the Government on Monday, December 9.

Officials from the ministry responsible for transportation stressed the importance of maintaining high standards, while the country’s cabbies aired their concerns on transport contracts with the leading resorts.

At a post Cabinet press conference last Thursday (December 12) Premier Rufus Ewing explained: “It is about the providing high quality service to our guests and at the same time, those persons who make a living out of driving taxis, that they can make a good living in a fair manner.”

Ewing was present at the meeting at the Office of the Premier in Providenciales along with the Minister of Environment, Home Affairs and Agriculture Amanda Missick.

The Premier stressed that the country markets itself as a highend luxury destination, and that the

standards set need to reinforce that brand.

He said that all those present must maintain high levels of service for visitors to the Islands and that transportation of guests should be done in a safe and secure manner.

Ewing went on to encourage the taxi drivers to conduct themselves and their business practices in a manner that is fair and provides for equal opportunity for all.

There will be zero tolerance for transport vehicles that are substandard, dilapidated and not kept in manner that positively reflects on the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Premier stressed.

A major issue that some of the taxi drivers brought up during the meeting was the contracting of individual drivers to a resort.

Ewing explained: “There are a number of issues related to whether or not a hotel can contract out to a particular taxi, whether or not that taxi which runs service on contractual basis can actually go back to the airport and stand in line to provide

service at the airport after having a contract with a hotel, whether or not it should be on a first come first serve basis or a selective contractual basis.

“Those are some of the issues that have to be ironed out.”

He said that some people are operating “dispatch services” which are not provided for in the ordinance.

“So we need to look at the regulations and the legislation to look at that particular issue,” he said.

Ewing said that the Government is ready to see what the issues are and prepared to intervene or assist to create a fairer system.

“So we took on board all of the discussions, all of the issues and we now will – with the ministry responsible for transportation, the TCIAA, the Hotel and Tourism Association and the Tourist Board – will sit and discuss the various issues and concerns and will see how we can come to assist them in fairness but also provide service that we can be proud of to ensure the viability of our tourism industry.”

continued

Christmas gloom?

Dear Editor, On visiting door to door to various senior citizens and also the children in Her Majesty’s Prison, I became aware of a number of human rights violations that need to be addressed immediately.

First of all, I discovered that not only are children being housed in the penitentiary, but also mentally ill persons.

Growing up in Grand Turk I was quite familiar with men that were often seen in my neighbourhood or walking along the roads.

These persons have committed no crimes but are locked up in prison due to mental illness for years.

What are we saying to the rest of the world? What kind of example are we setting for our future generations?

Are we saying that it is okay to protect the rights of some citizens and not others, that it is okay to imprison persons if are mentally handicapped or juveniles in an adult prison?

So why then did we sign on to the UN Convention on Human and Child Rights if we were going to continue to ignore the law?

The original hospital in Grand Turk in part now serves as the geriatric ward. There are other buildings on the compound that could serve as a housing facility for these persons where they would be cared for by medical professionals and not prison wardens.

I could not believe that a recent meeting of the House of Assembly publically noted that there are some 130 children who have not been placed in a school since the September term.

I wondered if the elected officials realised that it is illegal to have children here who are not being educated.

All children are entitled to an education under the law irrespective of their race,

nationality, status or political affiliation.

If the Government does not have spaces available, it is their responsibility to see that these children are placed in private schools and not be deprived of a basic right.

There are a great deal of elderly persons in need of adult diapers, bed mats, diabetic and hypertensive medications and supplements such as ensure or other liquid vitamins, pyjamas, warm slippers and blankets or sweaters.

There are very simple things that the elderly desperately need.

I would like to propose that the relevant Government departments and various organisations such as Rotary, Kiwanis, Lodges, churches and others identify areas or islands to try and administer to the needs of the elderly.

The unemployed persons should be at the forefront of everyone’s minds as well.

Many of these persons are losing their homes, are living without access to electricity or water and food is not readily available.

I am appealing to the people of the Turks and Caicos, please extend some charity towards these persons in an ‘Each One, Reach One’ campaign.

I am sure that together, we will make a difference.

I would like to thank Graceway IGA, Lew 1 Shipping and Caicos Express Airways for discounts extended, Express Water Services and The Gaming Palace for donations.

Your most valued assistance and contributions to bringing Christmas to so many in need is greatly appreciated.

Euwonka Selver Long Bay, Providenciales

Ribbon cutting by H.E Peter Beckingham and Premier Rufus Ewing

Police to increase presence in Blue Hills

BY DAISY HANDFIELD A NEW police post was introduced to the residents of Blue Hills on Friday (December 13) so that the community could feel a stronger sense of security.

The post will not be open 24 hours a day, but police will be able to set up appointments so people can go in to give witness statements and discuss concerns.

During the opening ceremony Police Commissioner Colin Farquhar said that the post represents their commitment to the communities of Blue Hills and Wheeland.

“This area represents one of the largest residential areas on Providenciales and has needed an increased police presence for some time.”

Farquhar said that they look to receiving 18 new SUVs and a 15 passenger van in early 2014 to assist with patrolling.

The Police Commissioner said that this post is not an opportunity for officers to be stationed in the office.

“Having staff in a station takes away from officers patrolling and engaging in the community.

“Police need to be proactive, not reactive and this can only be completed through true community policing.”

He said that they intend to do everything in their power so that Blue Hills, like every other community is kept safe.

“Although this post is being opened today [Friday], residents must note that they are the eyes and the ears of crime that occurs in this community; if you see something, say something.”

Representative for the Wheeland constituency and Member of Parliament, Delroy Williams said that he was happy that the post was finally established after cries for increased police presence.

He said: “It’s something that I promised the people that we would deliver on and I am happy today that it was opened.

“It will bring some sense of security to most of the residents.

You know there has been a lot of petty crimes in this area, but once the police comes in with an attitude to work with the community and we all work together this can be decreased.”

Williams said that the Government was working on rectifying the problem of additional lights in the Blue Hills area.

When Premier Rufus Ewing stepped to the podium he emphasised how Blue Hills has expanded tremendously with the new development of Wheeland.

“Providenciales once called Blue Hills has grown significantly over the past few years… This has necessitated the need for increased engagement in the community because of the increase in petty crimes, criminal activities, gang related incidents and these are issues

that will damage a community.”

He said he was very delighted that this police post will act as a centre of coordination of community based policing and will allow their officers to better engage in their communities.

“We as a people need to take a proactive approach; we need to take a zero tolerance to crime.

“If we had zero crime, the public wouldn’t have a need for police officers and police posts so even though I hesitate to say that we would like to get to zero, we would indeed wish to get to zero crime, but we need to adopt a zero tolerance approach.”

Governor Peter Beckingham reiterated what the Premier said on the safety of the community.

“As well as security of the community, security for the visitors to TCI is of huge importance.

“This country depends hugely on tourism from North America and the reputation for TCI with a low crime rate is one of the biggest selling points that we have as a community in North America and if that reputation was to be tarnished, then clearly the long term harm to our communities would be severe.”

He said that any development of this sort to improve and enhance security in any part of TCI was clearly of great importance.

The event was attended by various Government officials and prayer was led by Pastor Dale Taylor.

16 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Reonardo Harvey on the Amangani Terrace in Wyoming USA

Joy Callender, district manager for Turks and Caicos Islands, (left) accepts the award for Branch of the Year

FirstCaribbean names TCI bank most outstanding CIBC FirstCaribbean’s two branches in the Turks and Caicos Islands have emerged as the top banks for sales in the company’s network across the Caribbean this year.

The Leeward Highway branch achieved 99 per cent of its annual branch sales target, and Grace Bay reached 94 per cent of its target.

Together they have placed first and second respectively within CIBC FirstCaribbean’s network of 67 branches.

On Thursday (December 12) at a dinner attended by the bank’s board of directors, Joy Callender, retail banking district manager for TCI, accepted the award.

Mark St. Hill, managing director for retail and business banking, said: “Our bank’s vision of being the leading financial services provider in the region, building enduring client relationships through trusted advice and superior service, is a challenge to every employee from the CEO to the CSR to make at least one connection each day that will drive our sales to achieve results.

“Delivering a superior sales and service experience to our clients with each and every interaction is the mantra of our frontline personnel, and none more so than our teams at our two branches in the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

Country manager for the TCI,

Larry Lawrence, was equally enthusiastic in his praise of his team.

“This year we in TCI have punched far above our body weight,” he said.

“In 2013, the retail team made significant enhancements to their way of working, introduced several process improvements and made key changes to improve our customer service delivery.

“In 2013 team TCI embraced all these enhancements to deliver these spectacular results.”

CIBC FirstCaribbean thanked and commended the 48 members of staff at the Leeward Highway Branch and the 34 based at Grace Bay for their commitment to the CIBC FirstCaribbean’s vision and for their dedication to achieving excellence.

Cabinet to consider reform strategy for growth in 2014 AT THE last Cabinet meeting for 2013, held this past Wednesday (December 18), the Minister of Finance presented a report setting out a draft reform strategy for growth and empowerment.

A post Cabinet update from the Governor’s office advised that the draft strategy sets out the proposed measures required to attain the goals of transforming the business environment, developing a modern human resources infrastructure and re-establishing sustainable growth.

Cabinet will consider the matter further at its next meeting on January 8, 2014.

Meanwhile, approval was given to a

December 21 – January 3, 2014

request by the Minister of Government Support Services to allow the developer of North West Point Resort to maintain the public road leading from Millennium Highway through parcels 60101 and 60003 to their resort at Crystal Bay with an overlay of 100 loads (approximately 1,600 cubic yards) of limestone fill from the airport stockpile.

Cabinet also approved amendments to the Telecommunications Bill, which seek to promote the development of broadcasting services in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

This matter will now proceed to the House of Assembly.

Cindy Nemours and her husband in front of Amanpuri’s famous Thai pool deck in Phuket, Thailand

Amanyara employees enjoy foreign work experience opportunity ONE of TCI’s most exclusive resorts, Amanyara, allowed two key local members of their management team a chance to discover what it is like to work at another one of Aman’s 28 luxury resorts worldwide.

In October, the opportunity was given to Reonardo Harvey and Cindy Nemours, both hailing from the Turks and Caicos Islands and working at Amanyara for many years.

Front office manager Reonardo Harvey spent a week at Amangani, Jackson Hole, Wyoming USA while senior villa coordinator Cindy Nemours, spent a week in Amanpuri, Phuket, Thailand.

The two both said that they were very appreciative for the chance which opened them up to new experiences and insight in the industry and the world as a whole.

Apart from the learning aspect of the trip, they were able to sightsee and enjoy the different cultures and also used the opportunity to promote the TCI. Harvey said that the opportunity to visit and cross train at the family property exposed him to most if not all aspects of the functioning and operations of the front office and food and beverage departments and their management techniques.

He said: “The experience really

painted a good picture of what true customer service and team work is all about, it also showed me what Aman truly represents.

“Training is a very important tool in the world in which we operate and I am humbly grateful that I was provided with this opportunity…I was able to learn new skills and techniques from my fellow peers, which I will be sharing with the Amanyara team.”

Cindy Nemours said her visit to Amanpuri in Phuket, Thailand was one of the most memorable experiences she has ever had.

Since it was the “birth place” of Aman Resorts she said that most of the aspects of their operation are very similar but more extensive, as they are larger and have many more employees.

“This cross exposure reemphasised what the spirit of Aman Resorts is all about. It shows that although we are located in different parts of the world, and we have diverse teams, our aim and philosophy remain the same.”

Nemours also said that the trip has been a great motivation to her and she looks forward to applying some insights to their operation.

With the knowledge and new experiences gained, the two look forward to improving themselves and their team.

Poker tournament raises funds for Maskanoo DOZENS of poker players gathered at Regent Palms resort in Grace Bay on Sunday, December 8, to play cards in the name of charity.

Each of the 38 participants chipped in $100 to enjoy a fun game with fellow fundraisers.

The event, which was put on to raise cash for the fourth annual Maskanoo festival, netted a massive $6,490 from tickets and a silent auction.

There were also raffle prizes with lucky winner Kenny Gardiner walking away with three of the four prizes including a custom made 2014 Maskanoo costume.

The fundraiser was organised

by Casablanca Casino, the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA), the Department of Culture, the Regent Palms and the Maskanoo Committee.

It featured live music by Director of Culture and Maskanoo Committee chairman David Bowen and his wife Shara.

Maskanoo is an annual cultural festival held on Boxing Day and is spearheaded by the Maskanoo

Committee along with the Department of Culture and the TCHTA. It is an event that showcases the best of the Turks and Caicos Islands music and cultural heritage, mixing Junkanoo from TCI’s Bahamian linked heritage with masquerade.

This festive affair will once again be held in TCI’s tourism capital of Providenciales, following a route along Grace Bay road between the Regent Village and Le Vele Plaza.

Attendees will enjoy a street parade, local music, island food, cultural items on sale, arts, crafts and entertainment from Kino and Kazz, Elroy and Dez, Kew Band Links and the Ripsaw Allstars as well as a street jump-up and festive costume parades.

Bowen said: “I am indebted to the management and staff of Casablanca Casino for putting on this fundraiser and for being such model corporate citizens.

“If more private sector businesses like Casablanca supported cultural events like Maskanoo, the entire country and its main industry tourism

Organisers and attendees of the charity poker tournament

would benefit greatly.”

To find out more about how to sponsor or participate in Maskanoo

call the Department of Culture on 941-8434 or email maskanoo@ gmail.com.

The Weekly News apologises for publishing the wrong photograph alongside this article last week.

December 21 – January 3, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 17

Phone company donates hi-tech white board to school THERE was a sea of red shirts at Clement Howell High School last Friday afternoon (December 13) as Digicel staff packed into the computer room to make a sizeable donation.

The phone company presented a huge interactive whiteboard to the technology department to allow pupils to enjoy modern hi-tech learning.

Head of marketing Ava-Dayne Fulford explained: “The entire Digicel staff is here as a family to make a special donation to the Clement Howell High School.

“We ran a back-to-school competition during the months of September and October and Clement Howell High School ended up winning this fantastic interactive whiteboard.

“It’s bought technology into this classroom and it’s going to make a difference to both the teachers and the students.

“We’re very happy to give this as part of our Christmas campaign ‘Brighten Someone’s Christmas’.

“I’m sure that this will brighten Clement Howell just a little bit.”

Digicel’s chief executive officer E Jay Saunders said the donation “signifies us trying to get students more into maths and science and make their learning more interactive.”

He added: “A number of studies

Digicel employee helps to paint the technology departmentv

have been done that kids learn better when they can be more involved.”

It is the company’s aim to give local youngsters the same educational tools as those in other countries.

“If you give them the opportunity then they’ll be able to compete on the world level,” Saunders said.

Teachers and fifth form students from the school attended the brief presentation to offer their thanks to Digicel staff.

Information technology teacher

Tanisha Brown said: “We want to say a special thanks for this very helpful tool that they have installed in our classroom.

“Now I am confident that we have a team of hardworking, dedicated and most of all innovative teachers who will find different ways of implementing this.

“It is going to make a difference.”

Digicel staff also took time out to paint the walls of the technology department in lime green to brighten it up.

Frenica Williams is the face of Turks and Caicos Islands Fashion Week

TCI hosts its own fashion week NEXT year the Turks and Caicos Islands will join the rest of the world’s style capitals in hosting its own fashion week.

The event will feature a series of resort, couture and luxury fashion shows, and is expected to attract international industry experts.

It will also support school fashion programmes and promote the culture of the Islands.

Produced by the Miss Turks and Caicos Universe Beauty Organisation and directed and presented by Saint George Fashion House (SGFH), the week will be the first of its kind in the TCI. Kazz Forbes, founder and president of Turks and Caicos Islands Fashion Week (TCIFW), said: “TCIFW will enhance all aspects of fashion events in the Turks and Caicos Islands by featuring fine local, regional and

international designers and boutiques presenting exquisite garments and accessories, supporting local schools alternative career programmes, highlighting local culture, history and entertainment, promoting business generation, facilitating workshops, hosting exhibitions of art and luxury products and services, exciting the interest of regional and international media and supporting the marketing the Turks and Caicos Islands to the world.”

Between March 26 and 29, 2014, event producers will set the stage for cultural expression allowing fashion artists, craftspeople and other creators to showcase their work.

A grand finale fashion show will then take place at Brayton Hall in Providenciales on March 29.

More details can be found at www.tcifw.com.

Haitian art exhibited in Grace Bay THIS weekend a variety of stunning Haitian arts and crafts will be on display in Grace Bay. Among the decorative delights will be jewellery, fabric paintings, ceramic beads and sequins, cut iron, wood projects, pottery, carved stone, basketry, bags and sandals.

The show has been put

together by Haitian consul Margarette Lemaire and members of the consulate to promote the country’s talent.

It will be held at the Regent Village Conference Centre on Saturday and Sunday (December 21 and 22) from 11am to 9pm.

Everyone is welcome to the free event.

Wanted list in respective order.

Crimestoppers TCI assists in seeking international fugitives INTERPOL has reached out to the Turks and Caicos Islands and other countries to assist them in capturing international fugitives linked to crime networks and wanted for offences including murder and drug trafficking.

International Fugitive Roundup and Arrest (INFRA) was launched in Costa Rica on November 18, involving 46 countries and territories and targeting 246 fugitives.

Interpol is asking members of the public to provide information to help locate 15 individuals.

These fugitives are believed to be hiding out in Central America, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela or the Caribbean.

They are all cases where no new leads were generated during the initial phase of INFRA Americas or where there is no current intelligence on the potential location of these

individuals.

Ervin Prenci, a Criminal Intelligence Officer with Interpol’s Fugitive Investigative Unit which is coordinating operation INFRA Americas, said the public could provide vital leads in helping to bring these fugitives to justice.

“Any piece of information, no matter how small or apparently insignificant could be the missing piece in the puzzle which will help locate these dangerous criminals,” Prenci explained.

“The public have a valuable role to play in supporting law enforcement efforts but we would not encourage anyone to take action themselves, but instead to pass on any tips to their local or national police or Interpol.”

Information on the possible location of the targets of operation INFRA Americas or any

internationally wanted persons can be sent to Interpol’s Fugitive Investigative Support Unit.

Any leads will be passed on to the Interpol National Central Bureaus concerned for further action on the ground.

Information can also be given anonymously to the TCI Crimestoppers programme at 1-8008477.

The 15 fugitives are Clemente de Jesús Castellanos Rivas, Cristian Antonio Dicent Polanco, Elvio Dionysus Diogenes Hato, Emil Dan Sirbu, Federico Carlos Torralva Perdomo, Jaime Osmin Valle Pleitez, Jessie Gordon Michel, Luis Fernelly Amezguita Acosta, Marvin Brian Peroti, Michel Emond, Miguel Matus, Patrik Snajdr, Rafael CaroQuintero, Steven Douglas Skinner and Victor Rodolfo Languasco Franco.

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18

December 21 – January 3, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GARDENING 

How does your garden grow

Christmas poinsettia POINSETTIAS bring a splash of festive red and green to the table or windowsill.

An attractive bowl, planted up with one or two, makes a cheery winter gift.

Poinsettias are indigenous to Central America and Mexico where they can easily grow three to four meters tall.

They develop large, showy, red flowers specifically designed to catch the eye of hummingbirds,

BY DENIS Belanger - NATURE SPLENDOR For all your landscaping, installation or garden maintenance needs, please call or write for a free estimate: 332-3381 or denis@naturesplendor.net

which find the poinsettia’s sugar-rich nectar irresistible.

As the birds hunt for nectar, they inadvertently spread pollen from poinsettia to poinsettia a win for both bird and plant.

Recipes

Roast turkey with sticky sausages SERVES: 8

INGREDIENTS • 2 tbsp runny honey • 16 good chipolata sausages • 24 slices smoked pancetta • 5.5kg oven-ready turkey (with giblets) • 1 onion, quartered • 3 small oranges, quartered • 5 sprigs fresh rosemary, halved • 8 sprigs fresh thyme • 40g butter, at room temperature • Bay leaves, to garnish DIRECTIONS • Warm the honey and brush over the sausages. Wrap each sausage in a pancetta slice. Put into a glass or ceramic ovenproof dish and chill until ready to cook.

• Preheat the oven to 190°C/ fan170°C/gas 5. Remove the giblets and set aside to make the gravy stock. Rinse the turkey inside and out, and dry well. Season the body cavity, then alternately push in the onion, five orange quarters and half the herbs.

• Put three orange quarters and remaining herbs in the neck end of the turkey.

• Spread the softened butter over the whole bird, making sure you cover the legs.

• Season well, then place the remaining pancetta slices on top of the bird.

• Pour 450ml water into the roasting tin and cover the turkey and roasting tin with a large sheet of foil, sealing it under the rim of the tin.

• Put in the oven for three hours and 20 minutes.

• Uncover the turkey and baste with the juices in the tin. Cook for the remaining 30 minutes to brown the skin.

• Remove the cooked turkey from the oven, and increase the oven temperature to 200C/fan180C/gas 6.

• Pop the sausages in to cook for 30 minutes. Carefully lift the turkey from the tin onto a board, letting as much juice drip back into the tin as possible.

• Set it aside in a warm place, covered in foil, to rest for 30 to 45 minutes.

• Strain the turkey's cooking juices from the tin into a jug. Allow it to settle, then spoon off and discard the excess fat from the surface, keeping what's left behind for the gravy.

• Present the roast turkey on a large serving platter and garnish with fresh bay leaves and the remaining orange wedges.

The poinsettia acquired its common name from Joel Poinsett, the United States ambassador to Mexico who, during the mid-1800s, fell in love with the flame leaf flower and brought one back to the US. How should I care for my poinsettia plant after the holidays?

You can plant your poinsettia outdoors in a container or in the ground. Choose a sunny spot that will not receive artificial light at night.

Place the plant in the soil at the same depth it was growing in the container.

To encourage branching, start pruning in early spring. Cut back to within 12 to 18 inches of the ground.

Poinsettias may become ‘leggy’ and unattractive if not pruned regularly during the growing season.

Cut back a few times during the summer if needed, leaving four leaves on each shoot. Discontinue pruning after September.

The poinsettia is a ‘short day’ plant that blooms when days are short and nights are long.

If the dark period is interrupted by

artificial light from any source after October, flowering will be delayed or interrupted.

If your plant is exposed to outdoor lights, you’ll need to cover your poinsettia every night during this critical time for flowers to develop.

You can use a cardboard box and cover all holes to keep out light. Once you start to see colour development, you can stop covering the plant.

The colourful and showy ‘flower’ is actually a cluster of modified leaves called bracts (same as Bougainvillea).

The true flowers are small and clustered in the centre of the bracts.

Red poinsettia varieties usually establish better than other colours.

Purchase plants that are blooming in

mid-November because these early flowering varieties are ones that will also bloom earliest in the landscape.

Contrary to a popular myth, poinsettias are not poisonous.

However, some people are mildly allergic to their white, milky sap.

Therefore, if you are prone to skin allergies, wear gloves when pruning your plants.

Any plant that can undergo a miraculous transformation from green leaves to a multitude of boldly coloured bracts just in time for the Christmas season is darn near perfect in my opinion.

And I’m sure that if Joel Poinsett were around today he would wholeheartedly agree.

Wishing you a festive holiday season and a very happy new year.

POLICE SAFETY TIPS

Don’t substitute public places for day-care OVER the festive holidays there will be many businesses that will strive to create a warm, inviting, fun environment for children.

However, the safety and wellbeing of children at public events and places is of serious concern.

It is my intention to enlist the cooperation of parents and other adults responsible for children to ensure that public outings be a safe and pleasant experience for all.

Parents are responsible for the behaviour of their children not just at home but also while they are in public.

Many Government places such as a the public library or Gustarvus Lightbourne Sports Centre have employees that are committed to helping children with activities related to the relevant Government public places.

However, it is not the Government staff’s responsibility to serve as babysitters or disciplinarians.

By Audley Astwood

Police Public Relations Officer

Parents are still responsible for the actions and the wellbeing of their children.

Responsibility for the welfare and the behaviour of children in public rests with the parent/guardian or an assigned chaperone.

Though at Government places staff will always respond with care and concern, they cannot assume responsibility for children’s safety and comfort when they are unattended.

Staff may need to contact authorities such as the police either to assist with the enforcement of discipline or to ensure the safety of an unattended child.

Parents should not use public places or events as an alternative to

day-care.

For safety’s sake, parents should make sure that their children are sufficiently mature before allowing them to attend public places or events by themselves.

Parents should also realise that, even in their absence, they are legally responsible for their children’s behaviour.

The owners of business places or event holders are not responsible for the care and supervision of unaccompanied children prior to opening or after closing.

The owners of business places or event holders are also not responsible for children outside the building who await transportation or who are socialising.

Adults responsible for unattended school-age children at these business places or events should be aware of the hours in which they operate and make arrangements to meet the children on time.

December 21 – January 3, 2014

Lifestyle...

19

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

The Dentist and you  Mark Osmond BDS (Lond) LDS RCS (Eng). Mark Osmond Dental Clinic - (649) 432 3777, drmosmond@gmail.com or Find us on Facebook

By Dr Mark Osmond

Healthy teeth at Christmas Time Tips for a healthy Christmas Avoid cross-contamination

Keep all raw food, whether it is turkey or vegetables, separate from ready-to-eat foods to avoid cross-contamination.

Use separate chopping boards for raw food and ready-to-eat food.

Raw foods can contain harmful bacteria that are spread very easily to anything they touch, including other foods, worktops, chopping boards and knives.

Wash your hands

Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before and after handling food, especially when handling and preparing raw meat and poultry.

You also need to remember to wash and dry your hands after going to the toilet, touching the bin or touching any pets.

Bugs are spread between food, surfaces and utensils most effectively on wet or damp hands.

Defrost turkey safely

Defrost the turkey on a large dish and cover, preferably in the fridge.

Remove the giblets and the neck to speed up thawing.

Alternatively, defrost the turkey in a cool, clean place where the temperature is fairly constant.

Keep in mind that the temperature of where the turkey is kept will affect thawing times.

Turkey defrosting times

It can take up to 48 hours for a large turkey to thaw. To work out the defrosting time for your turkey, check the packaging.

If there aren't any defrosting instructions, use the following times as a guide: - In a fridge at 4ºC (39ºF), allow about 10 to 12 hours per kg.

- In a cool room (below 17.5ºC, 64ºF), allow approximately three to four hours per kg.

- At room temperature (about 20ºC, 68ºF), allow approximately two hours per kg.

A turkey is fully defrosted when there are no ice crystals inside the cavity and the meat is soft when you insert a fork or skewer.

Once thawed, store it in the fridge until you are ready to cook it. If this isn’t possible, you should cook it immediately.

Cook turkey properly

Seventeen per cent of people aren’t sure how to tell when their turkey is cooked. Make sure your turkey is steaming hot all the way through before serving.

When you cut into the thickest part of the turkey, none of the meat should be pink.

If juices flow out when you pierce the turkey or when you press the thigh, they should be clear.

Wash your veg

Most of the bacteria on vegetables will be in the soil attached to the produce. Washing to remove any soil is therefore particularly important.

When you wash vegetables, don’t just hold them under the running tap. Rub them under water, for example in a bowl of fresh water.

Start with the least soiled items first and give each of them a final rinse. Washing loose produce is particularly important, as it tends to have more soil attached to it than pre-packaged fruit and vegetables.

Know your dates

Sniffing food is not a reliable way of telling whether food is still safe to eat. Some harmful bacteria don’t always change the way foods smell, taste or look.

Food with a ‘use-by’ date goes off quite quickly and it can be dangerous to eat after this date.

Food with a ‘best before’ date is longer-lasting. It may not be at its best quality after this date but should be safe to eat.

Eggs can be eaten a day or two after their best before date, as long as they are cooked thoroughly until both yolk and white are solid, or if they are used in dishes where they will be fully cooked, such as a cake.

SEASON’S Greetings to all our readers! It’s that wonderful time of year again where we all enjoying spending time with family and friends, and celebrating the holidays.

And for most of us these festivities will include enjoying great food and drink - I know I'm certainly looking forward to my Christmas cake, mulled wine and Ferrero Rocher!

Inevitably the holiday period can be quite tough on your teeth. The extra treats - candies being passed around work or the homemade cookies given to you by your neighbour - are all additional times when your teeth are vulnerable to attack from dental decay.

From a dental health perspective, you might be surprised to know that it is less about how much you eat (the volume) and more about how often you eat (the frequency).

It is much healthier to eat three balanced meals a day than have seven to 10 snacks throughout the course of the day - even if you are actually eating the same amount and types of food.

The reason for this is that every time you eat anything that contains sugar, your teeth are under acid

attack for up to one hour afterwards.

The sugar in your food is broken down by the (normal, healthy) bacteria in your mouth and acid is produced.

It is this acid that attacks the enamel of your teeth and over time causes tooth decay.

Acidic foods and drinks (such as citrus fruits, diet soda, even lager) can be just as harmful to your teeth.

And also remember that sugars can be present in foods even when it might not be so obvious; for example, fruit (fresh and dried), bread and many sauces.

So, how can you avoid these problems and yet still enjoy the Christmas treats?

It is advised that you enjoy your sweet treats at meal times rather than spread them out throughout the

course of the day.

And if your children are having candy, encourage them to eat it in one sitting rather than keep returning to the bag and having one every hour or so.

Brushing your teeth at the end of the day, just before you go to bed, is vital in ensuring that sugar and food debris is removed from the teeth.

However, brushing teeth immediately after you have finished eating something acidic is not advised.

Straight after you have eaten, the enamel is softened and if used at this point, the abrasive action of the brush and toothpaste will remove this layer of enamel. This erodes the teeth and makes them sensitive and vulnerable to decay.

It is therefore advised that you wait 30 to 60 minutes after eating or drinking acidic foods before brushing your teeth.

A simple mouth rinse with water immediately after can help to wash away the acid in the mouth.

These are just some easy and sensible steps to take to look after your teeth, whilst you can focus on have a wonderful holiday time.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Spectrum of Hope 

‘Let’s give ‘em somethin' to talk about!’

SO, WE have now established that Josiah will need some coaching through the next portion of his day.

And though his expression may seem as though he would rather not see his friends right now, we have also established that this is mostly due to knowing that it will be a great deal of work for him to process all that social interaction with this many children will bring.

But, this is a major portion of Josiah’s individualised education plan (IEP) and so has already been set up for the best possible chance of success that can be managed.

Josiah sits at a desk grouping of four other students in the rear corner of the classroom, furthest from the door and closest to the teacher.

My desk is just behind a bookshelf that is behind him. This allows me to appear and disappear according to what is needed at the time.

This is to facilitate several things: 1) The best visual line to who is coming into the room so he can prepare for the appropriate interaction.

2) The furthest position from ambient noises that would distract him from focusing on the conversation at hand.

3) The most discreet area for the shadow to sit behind him to prompt him (or his peers) through the day.

4) The best visual line for the shadow to observe the environment and determine if any adjustments need to be made to his protocols to be more

By Nicole Cox beneficial.

5) Allow for discreet communication, observation and cuing between the teacher and the shadow throughout the day.

As the kids come into the room, Jo’s centre mates all make their way to their seats ready for the first exercise with Jo for the day.

They have already been coached by the shadow in how to execute conversation scripts with Jo. A very simple six line exchange has been written out for them consisting of greeting, response, inquiry, response and closings.

As I hold Josiah's script over the heads of the children, they each read their portion of the script to Jo. He either initiates or responds according to which script he gets today.

As they become more fluent in the script, words are deleted one line at a time until gradually the entire script is memorised. This is called fading.

To avoid this becoming too mechanical, words or responses are improvised as mastery of the initial script becomes evident.

Also, the script is extended to more lines of conversation in between greeting and closing.

Literally, we are teaching Jo how to make conversation by seeding him with pre-packaged topics that most general conversation consists of.

This, of course, reduces his anxiety when encountering peers as he will know what to say and how/when to say it.

He will also have a marking point as to when he may be excused from conversation.

Not knowing what comes next or when this is over is a source of great frustration for Josiah!

This process happens three times a day - first thing in the morning, midday (around lunch) and at the close of the day before the children pack up to go home.

There is a separate script for each exchange and as dictated by the IEP, the teacher makes room for these exchanges to take place until moving to the next item on the day’s agenda.

Social praise such as high-fives and verbal praise are used as reinforcers.

The prompt phrase: “My/Your turn” is used to jumpstart the protocol if they go off track.

Prompting is focused on his peers rather than Jo so as to help guard him against becoming prompt dependent and to help them learn appropriate ways to gain and hold the attention of a peer with autism.

One would be surprised how quickly children learn when they are being taught by other children.

Next week: Lesson time!

20 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

The group travelled a momentous 80 miles around the island

December 21 – January 3, 2014

The advanced junior members of Provo Sailing Club sailed in 13ft Hobie Wave catamarans

Sailing team circles Provo in one day A GROUP of young sailors battled the elements to journey all the way around Providenciales in a single day.

The eight advanced junior members of Provo Sailing Club travelled in pairs on the epic journey in 13ft Hobie Wave catamarans.

Fleet captain Adam Twigg and Robin Spruce led the group a momentous 80 miles around the island fighting a dropping wind and baking Caribbean sun.

The team set off from the Kid’s Park at the Bight at 6am and 13.5 hours later without making any

landfall they were back at Grace Bay beach where they celebrated their success with friends and family.

On welcoming the teen sailors back to land David Douglas of Provo Sailing Club said: “These kids should rightly puff their chests out when they go to school on Monday.

“I would bet that past and present there aren’t many people who can say they sailed around the island in a single day.”

The participants were Daniella Douglas, Phoebe Twigg, Samiel Antoine, JJ Affleck, Alex Cox, Ciara Dempsey, Leail Missick and Buzzy

Lawson – all between the ages of 14 and 19.

Minister of Sports, Youth and Culture Akierra Missick was at the finish line to welcome back the sailors and presented them with certificates of achievement.

“I’d like to congratulate all the students and young sailors that took part in the around the island challenge today.

“It was no short feat, it was a very long day, but it’s great to see them coming back happy and smiling and excited.”

She added: “This signifies the

fact that we have the talent here in the sport of sailing and it’s time for us as a Government but also with the assistance of the Provo Sailing Club to ensure that our young athletes as well as our older athletes get an opportunity to represent the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

One of the talented sailors Phoebe Twigg told media: “It was amazing.

It was a bit longer than we thought it was going to be and it was a bit tiring, but it was worth it.

“I saw places that I hadn’t seen on the island before and it was just a good experience overall.”

The exciting journey was sanctioned by the TCI Sailing Association.

Part-time Providenciales resident George Doub, 50, told the Weekly News just weeks ago that he hoped to be the first to achieve this feat.

However after the article was published, a number of keen boats men and women came forward to say the mission had already been accomplished.

Despite the revelation Doub is not to be deterred and still plans to make the trip in his 25-year-old 15ft catamaran. (RB)

become masters. Peasants were in command of the city. Business and schools were closed so that everyone could join in the fun.

Also around the time of the winter solstice, Romans observed Juvenalia, a feast honoring the children of Rome. In addition, members of the upper classes often celebrated the birthday of Mithra, the god of the unconquerable sun, on December 25.

It was believed that Mithra, an infant god, was born of a rock. For some Romans, Mithra's birthday was the most sacred day of the year.

In the early years of Christianity, Easter was the main holiday; the birth of Jesus was not celebrated. In the fourth century, church officials decided to institute the birth of Jesus as a holiday. Unfortunately, the Bible does not mention date for his birth (a fact Puritans later pointed out in order to deny the legitimacy of the celebration). Although some evidence suggests that his birth may have occurred in the spring (why would shepherds be herding in the middle of winter?), Pope Julius I chose December 25. It is commonly believed that the church chose this date in an effort to adopt and absorb the traditions of the pagan Saturnalia festival. First called the Feast of the Nativity, the custom spread to Egypt by 432 and to England by the end

of the sixth century. By the end of the eighth century, the celebration of Christmas had spread all the way to Scandinavia. Today, in the Greek and Russian orthodox churches, Christmas is celebrated 13 days after the 25th, which is also referred to as the Epiphany or Three Kings Day. This is the day it is believed that the three wise men finally found Jesus in the manger.

By holding Christmas at the same time as traditional winter solstice festivals, church leaders increased the chances that Christmas would be popularly embraced, but gave up the ability to dictate how it was celebrated. By the Middle Ages, Christianity had, for the most part, replaced pagan religion. On Christmas, believers attended church, then celebrated raucously in a drunken, carnival-like atmosphere similar to today's Mardi Gras. Each year, a beggar or student would be crowned the "lord of misrule" and eager celebrants played the part of his subjects. The poor would go to the houses of the rich and demand their best food and drink. If owners failed to comply, their visitors would most likely terrorize them with mischief. Christmas became the time of year when the upper classes could repay their real or imagined "debt" to society by entertaining less fortunate

citizens.

History of Christmas

Christmas is both a sacred religious holiday and a worldwide cultural and commercial phenomenon. For two millennia, people around the world have been observing it with traditions and practices that are both religious and secular in nature.

Christians celebrate Christmas Day as the anniversary of the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, a spiritual leader whose teachings form the basis of their religion. Popular customs include exchanging gifts, decorating Christmas trees, attending church, sharing meals with family and friends and, of course, waiting for Santa Claus to arrive. December 25–Christmas Day–has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1870.

An Ancient Holiday

The middle of winter has long been a time of celebration around the world. Centuries before the arrival of the man called Jesus, early Europeans celebrated light and birth in the darkest days of winter. Many peoples rejoiced during the winter solstice, when the worst of the winter was behind them and they could look forward to longer days and extended hours of sunlight.

In Scandinavia, the Norse celebrated Yule from December 21, the winter solstice, through January. In recognition of the return of the sun, fathers and

sons would bring home large logs, which they would set on fire. The people would feast until the log burned out, which could take as many as 12 days. The Norse believed that each spark from the fire represented a new pig or calf that would be born during the coming year.

The end of December was a perfect time for celebration in most areas of Europe. At that time of year, most cattle were slaughtered so they would not have to be fed during the winter.

For many, it was the only time of year when they had a supply of fresh meat.

In addition, most wine and beer made during the year was finally fermented and ready for drinking.

In Germany, people honored the pagan god Oden during the midwinter holiday. Germans were terrified of Oden, as they believed he made nocturnal flights through the sky to observe his people, and then decide who would prosper or perish. Because of his presence, many people chose to stay inside.

Saturnalia

In Rome, where winters were not as harsh as those in the far north, Saturnalia—a holiday in honor of Saturn, the god of agriculture—was celebrated. Beginning in the week leading up to the winter solstice and continuing for a full month, Saturnalia was a hedonistic time, when food and drink were plentiful and the normal Roman social order was turned upside down. For a month, slaves would

An Outlaw Christmas

In the early 17th century, a wave of religious reform changed the way Christmas was celebrated in Europe. When Oliver Cromwell and his Puritan forces took over England in 1645, they vowed to rid England of decadence and, as part of their effort, cancelled Christmas. By popular demand, Charles II was restored to the throne and, with him, came the return of the popular holiday.

The pilgrims, English separatists that came to America in 1620, were even more orthodox in their Puritan beliefs than Cromwell. As a result, Christmas was not a holiday in early America. From 1659 to 1681, the celebration of Christmas was actually outlawed in Boston.

Anyone exhibiting the Christmas spirit was fined five shillings.

By contrast, in the Jamestown settlement, Captain John Smith reported that Christmas was enjoyed by all and passed without incident.

After the American Revolution, English customs fell out of favor, including Christmas. In fact, Christmas wasn't declared a federal holiday until June 26, 1870.

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MerryChristmas to all our readers

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Celebrations last throughout the night at Blue Haven Resort and Marina

December 21 – January 3, 2014

Record-breaking kiteboarders with their loyal crew

Kiteboarders complete record breaking cross-Atlantic challenge SIX incredibly talented kiteboarders made landfall in the Turks and Caicos Islands on Tuesday (December 17) after travelling over 4,000 miles in a record breaking journey across the Atlantic.

After setting off from Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands on November 20 the Enable Passion team spent 24 hours a day at sea as part of the HTC Atlantic Kite Challenge – the first of its kind.

They rode through schools of flying fish, left trails in bioluminescent algae at night, sailed next to whales, dodged

sharks and faced tremendous thunder storms.

The tag-team kiters rode a relay of two lots of two hours a day and spent 27 days and nights at sea before reaching their destination Providenciales to huge welcome celebrations.

On their arrival at Blue Haven Resort and Marina Premier Rufus Ewing said: “It is unbelievable what the Enable Passion team has achieved with this crossing.

“I am proud that the Turks and Caicos Islands are the official arrival destination and are able to provide a very

warm welcome to the riders.”

The journey was the brainchild of Netherlandsbased Filippo van Hellenberg Hubar, founder of the Enable Passion Foundation.

Joining him on his trip were kiters Camilla Ringvold, Max Blom, Eric Pequeno, Dennis Gijsbers and Ike Frans.

They were accompanied by a Lagoon 500 catamaran called Double-A with crew members including Dutch boat captain Eric Van Vuuren, owner Arne Ostbye, medic Sophie Cohen and reporter Bram De Vos. TCI eco-adventure

company Big Blue Unlimited accompanied a contingent of Turks and Caicos-based kiteboarders to meet the team on the final leg of their journey.

But unfortunately the wind dropped and they had to be brought back to land on boats.

The failing wind also led to a three hour delay in the arrival of the record-breaking kiters but that did not stop scores of excited fans from expressing their vocal delight on their arrival.

Governor Peter Beckingham said: “The feat of the Enable Passion

organisation in completing this marathon across one of the world’s wildest oceans is awe inspiring.

“I toast the team for its commitment, effort and for choosing the Turks and Caicos as its ultimate destination.

“Their remarkable journey deserves the remarkable beach party that I know our friends at Blue Haven have organised for them.”

Celebrations went on into the night at Blue Haven Resort and Marina with music and dancing on the beach.

Caroline van Scheltinga of Blue Haven Resort and Marina

said: “This is a landmark of human achievement.

“The successful ocean crossing demonstrates the power of human passion, and ingenuity, working as a team in harmony with nature.”

The Turks and Caicos Islands has a thriving kiteboarding community which is focused on the shallow waters of Long Bay Beach.

Each year Big Blue’s team rider Hope LeVin hosts a kiteboarding competition called Windvibes which attracts riders from around the world.

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Scotiabank continues tradition of giving AS THE festive season approaches Scotiabank made another Christmas donation in the community.

A small cheery ceremony at the bank’s Cherokee Road branch on Wednesday (December 18) marked the presentation of more than 20 bags full of food items to some needy senior citizens.

The four-year tradition of donating to the elderly at Christmas is in keeping with their year round commitment of giving back and aiding in projects beneficial to the growth of the community.

The bank partnered with the Government’s Department of Social Services and the TCI Salvation Army to compile

a list of seniors and disabled people who most needed assistance, and provided them with non-perishable food supplies.

Also for the season, the bank organised a toy drive where staff members purchased and donated gifts to give to the Government’s Youth Department.

Throughout this year Scotiabank has made numerous community contributions of different kinds to the SNAP Centre, the TCI Youth Chorale, the National Cancer Society, the Cricket Association, Clement Howell High School, the Community College and Library, just to name a few. (KH) Scotiabank employees hand out bags of food items to senior citizens

Maskanoo takes elements from Bahamian junkanoo and European masquerade parties

Maskanoo festival even bigger this year A VIBRANT festival of colour, music and movement is set to hit Grace Bay’s main strip on Boxing Day for the fourth year running.

Hundreds of people are expected to attend the Maskanoo event, a blend of live concerts and ‘jump up’ costume parades.

The festival takes elements from Bahamian junkanoo and European masquerade parties and will see attendees sporting dazzling costumes and masks while dancing to a lively Caribbean beat.

On Thursday, December 26, TCI’s cultural heritage will be showcased through an array of local entertainment.

From Seven Stars Resort to Le Vele Plaza there will be vendors selling food, drink, arts and crafts, along with live performances from Kew Band Links, and Kino, Kazz, Elroy

and Dez. Director of Culture David Bowen said: “Maskanoo is now the biggest festival in the Turks and Caicos.

“This marriage of TCI masquerade and junkanoo is a necessary cultural display for locals, expat residents and tourist alike.

“There is also the wonderful blend of our multicultural groups at Maskanoo as we invite and embrace those that work and make TCI their home away from home.”

This year’s event has been organised by the Department of Culture, the Maskanoo Committee and the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA).

Stacy Cox, executive director of the TCHTA, said: “We are excited about being able to assist and support the Department of Culture and

be a part of the Maskanoo Committee as they work to put TCI’s culture on display for our visitors and residents alike, especially during the peak of our busiest tourism season.”

The festival will begin at 3pm and go on until midnight but the party does not end there – night owls are invited to carry on partying at the Caicos Bar and Grill in the Bight.

This year for the first time there will also be a Maskanoo 5 kilometre fun walk starting from IGA Gourmet at 6.30am.

The $20 participation fee includes a goody bag with a special Maskanoo t-shirt, a whistle and a mask.

To register, interested people can visit Marco Travel, Graceway Sports Centre or sign up at either IGA store from December 20 to 24, or call 343-0178.

Happy Holidays One of the real joys of the Holiday Season is the opportunity to say Thank You and to wish you the very best for the New Year.

Turks and Caicos

From all of us here at the

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MerryChristmas to all our readers

Weekly News C h r i s t m a s

Dazzling display of talent at annual Christmas show IT WAS an enchanting afternoon of exciting Christmas activities, remarkable music and dance performances, and even a visit from Santa Claus at the Turks and Caicos Friends of the Arts Foundation (TCFAF) free Christmas Party and Variety Show.

The 12th annual event, held at Brayton Hall on Wednesday (December 18), gave lots of children from the community a chance to mingle and enjoy the Christmas festivities.

The afternoon activities allowed them to make Christmas decorations for the Christmas tree and to take home, and get their faces painted.

A visit from Santa Claus gave them a chance to share their Christmas wish list and collect candy canes, and also provided photo opportunities with the jolly man in the red and white suit.

After all that excitement, the fun continued with a variety show, featuring some remarkable performances from children of varying age groups.

The line-up of talent included a

Christmas Medley by the TCI Youth Chorale, Tristan Greene on piano, a dance from Enid Capron School, Provo Primary Steel Band, dances pieces from Bowen Dance Academy and a fantastic gymnastics demo.

This year the Edward Gartland Youth Centre, directed by Roxanne Wake- Forbes, partnered with the TCFAF to organise the event, and had a number of acts on the programme.

Their pieces included excerpts from the Summer's Radio Provo Abbott and Costello and Popeye the Sailor Man, a dance from the centre’s Cultural Dance Group, a play from the Drama Group and performances by the ECG Youth Centre Singers.

Executive secretary of the TCFAF, Barbara Pankhurst, was very pleased that the foundation was able to upkeep their tradition and pull off the event for the 12th year.

This year, she said the non for profit organisation has struggled with the loss and lack of volunteers but was delighted that they could once again bring the children of the community together to celebrate and enjoy the fun, festive event. (KH)

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These little dancers entertain the crowd

Children enjoy a visit from Santa Claus

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MerryChristmas to all our readers

TCI Youth Chorale opens the show with a Christmas Medley

This lad shares his wish list with Santa Claus

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The tradition of the Christmas tree and ornaments explained

S

ome of the first decorations that people put in their homes during the Christmas season were the branches of Holly trees and the Mistletoe that they found on the trees during this winter season.

The changing of the seasons ruled the lives of most people in the early days of Europe.

During the cold winter months, most people stayed inside their homes, and to pass the time used their hands and tools to create things out of wood, straw, glass, metal, stone and other materials they could find. These creations, ranging from hand carved wooden figures to straw angels were used to decorate the home and, since most of the population were poor peasants with very few possessions, these items were displayed, treasured and handed down among the families.

One common set of figures

that were carved were those of the Nativity. Once the basicNativity was complete, carvings of animals, angels, and stars could be added until dozens of these figures could take up a significant part of their home!

It was a natural evolution to display these figures on the Christmas tree that many used to decorate their homes during the winter Christmas season.

They were hung from branches, and new figures and creations were added each year.

As the celebration of Christmas spread and families were able to afford to buy things instead of having to make them, they began buying decorations for their homes and Christmas trees instead of making them.

Lights were added to the tees and then to the houses, and even outdoor decorations began to be used in front yards, bushes, and trees.

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December 21 – January 3, 2014

Brama Kumaris

Raja Yoga

Meditation Centre Turks and Caicos Islands

Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101

www.bkwsu.com Email: bkpadma@bkwsutci.com

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Entertainment

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Acclaimed actor Peter O’Toole dies

Dwayne Johnson’s movies of 2013 earned $1.3 billion.

Johnson is 2013’s highest-grossing actor

DWAYNE Johnson did not have the highest-grossing movie of the year, but he still has reason to celebrate.

The prolific actor has been named Forbes magazine’s highest-grossing star, thanks to the $1.3 billion his films have earned at the box office over the past 12 months.

While Robert Downey Jr. can lay claim to having the No. 1 movie of 2013 - “Iron Man 3” - and being the highestpaid actor in the business, Johnson’s been a quiet but visible powerhouse.

Also known as “The Rock,” the 41-year-old starred in that other blockbuster May release, “Fast & Furious 6,” as well as the not-too-

shabby “G.I. Joe: Retaliation.” To top it off, he also rolled onto the screen in “Pain and Gain” and the action flick “Snitch.”

“Fast & Furious” is the big winner of those four films since, with $788.6 million earned globally, it also helped earn Vin Diesel and the late Paul Walker places on the list of top 10 grossing actors of 2013.

With “Iron Man 3” earning $1.2 billion across the globe, of course RDJ isn’t far behind Johnson on Forbes’ list. With only one credit to his name at the box office this year, Downey Jr. is 2013’s second highestgrossing actor. (CNN)

ACTOR Peter O’Toole, who starred in Sir David Lean’s 1962 film classic Lawrence of Arabia, died on Saturday aged 81, his agent has said.

He was being treated at London’s Wellington hospital after a long illness, his agent added.

O’Toole’s daughter Kate said the family was overwhelmed “by the outpouring of real love and affection being expressed towards him, and to us”.

He received an honorary Oscar in 2003, having initially turned it down.

In a letter the actor asked the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to delay it until he was 80, saying he was “still in the game and might win the bugger outright”.

But when he finally clasped his statuette, he said: “Always a bridesmaid, never a bride, my foot.”

O’Toole’s agent said he was “one of a kind in the very best sense and a giant in his field”.

Film critic Barry Norman described him as a “true movie star”, who had “tremendous charisma”.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “My thoughts are with Peter O’Toole’s family and friends. His performance in my favourite film, Lawrence of Arabia, was stunning.”

Irish President Michael D Higgins added: “Ireland, and the world, has lost one of the giants of film and theatre.

“I was privileged to know him as a friend since 1969. I spent part of 1979 in Clifden where we met almost daily and all of us who knew him in the West will miss his warm humour and generous friendship.”

O’Toole began his acting career

O’Toole was 30 when he played Lawrence of Arabia.

as an exciting young talent on the British stage and his Hamlet in 1955 at the Bristol Old Vic, was critically acclaimed.

He hit international stardom when Sir David cast him as British adventurer T E Lawrence, the World War One soldier and scholar who led an Arab rebellion against the Turks.

Playwright Noel Coward once said that if O’Toole had been any prettier, they would have had to call the film “Florence of Arabia”.

Lawrence of Arabia earned him the first of eight Oscar nominations, with his second coming for 1964’s Becket, in which he played King Henry II to Richard Burton’s Thomas Becket.

Burton and O’Toole’s shared love of drinking garnered many headlines along with their performances.

O’Toole played Henry again in 1968 in The Lion in Winter, for which he received his third Oscar nod, opposite Katharine Hepburn.

His five other nominations were for Goodbye, Mr Chips in 1968, The Ruling Class in 1971, 1980’s The Stunt Man, My Favorite Year [1982] and finally for Venus in 2006. (BBC)

Lawrence: weight comments ‘should be illegal’

Chinese actress Zhang Ziyi received an undisclosed settlement from the US based website.

Ziyi wins sex claims case against Boxun CHINESE actress Zhang Ziyi has reached an undisclosed settlement with a US-based website which has apologised for false reports that she was paid to have sex with top Chinese officials.

The Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon star sued Boxun News for damaging her reputation and business interests.

Boxun retracted its story that she was paid $100m to sleep with officials, saying it should not have published it.

A court in the US said the parties had reached the settlement in a libel case.

Zhang shot to stardom after starring in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and has since gone on to appear in several high profile Hollywood movies, including Rush Hour 2 and Memoirs of a Geisha.

A short statement on her official Sina Weibo site said: “Nineteen months, and nearly 600 nights and days, is perhaps not very long for a scandal case, but it is long enough to destroy an innocent person’s reputation.”

Boxun, in a front page apology, said it had reported “negative and untrue information” about Zhang, which had been “insupportable and improper”.

It added that its anonymous sources “cannot support the information reported”.

When the rumour first broke that Zhang Ziyi had been paid for sex with top Party officials, the story grabbed headlines around the world.

Last year she launched a legal action at the High Court in Hong Kong seeking unspecified libel damages from Next Media over stories in its publications Apple Daily and Next Magazine - and won.

Rumours about sex being traded for favours have long circulated in China.

The BBC Chinese service’s Carol Yarwood says the allegations surrounding Zhang Ziyi have been all over the country’s media for months.

It is also one of the hot topics on weibo sites, China’s version of Twitter, our correspondent says.

While many web users criticised Zhang, others sympathised with her.

(BBC)

ACTRESS Jennifer Lawrence has said she thinks “it should be illegal to call someone fat on TV”, after red carpet criticism of her own figure.

Speaking to US host Barbara Walters, The Hunger Games star added: “Because why is humiliating people funny?”

The 23 year-old actress, who plays Katniss Everdeen in the teen franchise, said she was worried about how the media’s attitude affected young people.

Lawrence features in Walters’ series The 10 Most Fascinating People of 2013.

“I get it, and I do it too, we all do it,” the actress told Walters. “[But] the media needs to take responsibility for the effect that it has on our younger generation, on these girls who are watching these television shows, and picking up how to talk and how to be cool,” Lawrence said.

“So all of the sudden being funny is making fun of the girl that’s wearing an ugly dress. And the word fat! I just think it should be illegal to call somebody fat on TV.” Lawrence added: “I mean, if we’re regulating cigarettes and sex and cuss words, because of the effect they have on our younger generation, why aren’t we regulating things like calling people fat?”

The film actress, who won an Oscar earlier this year for her performance in Silver Linings Playbook, has previously spoken out against gossip magazines and TV shows such as E!’s Fashion Police, presented by Joan Rivers, which criticise the way women look.

Last month the American Hustle star told BBC Radio 1 that hearing negative things about her appearance “was like being in high school”.

The 41-year-old Cameron Diaz admitted that she was not always a good eater.

Diaz’ new ‘Body Book’ is all about nutrition, health and loving your body

Lawrence’s red carpet appearances, such as the LA premiere of The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, often attract media attention.

Her own figure became the subject of much debate, after being branded “fuller” by industry standards.

She told the December 2012 issue of Elle magazine that “in Hollywood, I’m obese. I’m considered a fat actress”. (BBC)

HOLLYWOOD star Cameron Diaz has taken a page from her good friend Gwyneth Paltrow and written a book on nutrition and health.

“The Body Book: The Law of Hunger, the Science of Strength, and Other Ways to Love Your Amazing Body” is due out December 31 and available for preorder via Amazon for $16.43.

Rather than focusing on a seven-day or month-long diet plan, the book “offers a holistic, long-term approach to making consistent choices and reaching the ultimate goal: a long, strong, happy, healthy life,” a promo reads.

Diaz, 41, also focuses on debunking the hype around food groups, explains the benefits of vitamins and minerals, and delves into the rationale of embracing “the instinct of hunger to satisfy it with whole, nutrient-dense foods.”

A renowned fitness fan and surfer, Diaz also focuses on the much-needed benefits of a daily workout to stave off disease and boost mood and energy levels.

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Top general warns over ‘hollowedout’ armed British forces BRITAIN is in danger of being left with hollowed-out armed forces, the UK’s top military officer has warned.

Chief of the Defence Staff, General Sir Nicholas Houghton, said this would be with “exquisite” equipment but without the personnel needed to use it.

In a speech, he said training levels were being squeezed and manpower was increasingly seen as “an overhead”.

The British armed forces are due to be significantly reduced in numbers by thousands of personnel by 2020.

The Army will lose 20,000 soldiers, the Navy 6,000 personnel and the RAF 5,000.

Gen Houghton emphasised that if the UK wished to stay in what he called the Premier League of smart power, then it must invest in armed forces that could generate

Prince William (right) was officer training at Sandhurst at the time he left one of the messages.

The British armed forces are due to be significantly reduced in numbers by thousands of personnel by 2020.

credible hard power capability and deterrence.

BBC defence correspondent Caroline Wyatt said this first annual talk by the new chief of the defence staff contained rather blunter warnings than many had anticipated

US businessman escapes Bolivia AN American businessman detained in Bolivia without charge for more than two years has escaped back to the US, officials in both countries say.

Jacob Ostreicher had faced allegations of money laundering linked to a rice-growing business.

Mr Ostreicher, 55, said Bolivian officials had attempted to extort money from him in exchange for his freedom.

Bolivian authorities say 15 people have been arrested in connection with the alleged extortion ring.

An unnamed US state department official told media that Mr Ostreicher had left Bolivia.

A member of his family said he

had returned to New York, where he has a flooring business.

Bolivian Justice Minister Cecilia Ayllon told a news conference on Tuesday that Mr Ostreicher had fled to Peru and caught a commercial flight to US, reports AFP news agency.

Mr Ostreicher is said to have spent 18 months in a Bolivian jail and a year under house arrest on suspicion of money laundering in connection with a rice-growing business.

He accused government employees in the South American country of illegally selling 18,000 tons of rice and stealing the business’s equipment, worth more than $50m (£30m).

- Gen Houghton said the UK must both fund and use its armed forces properly.

Gen Houghton took over in the late summer, at a time when the effects of the 8% cuts to the defence budget started having a clear impact on armed forces’ morale and what the UK could offer its allies on the international stage.

With the regular Army cutting thousands of soldiers and much future spending committed to equipment, Gen Houghton gave a clear warning to any future government wishing to cut defence spending again in 2015, said our correspondent.

Speaking at the Royal United Services Institute, in what he described as “an outing of professional conscience”, he said Britain risked being left without enough military manpower in the future, with the Royal Navy particularly vulnerable.

He said: “Unattended, our current course leads to a strategically incoherent force structure: exquisite equipment, but insufficient resources to man that equipment or train on it.

“This is what the Americans call the spectre of the hollow-force. We are not there yet; but across defence I would identify the Royal Navy as being perilously close to its critical mass in manpower terms.”

US Federal Reserve pulls back on stimulus effort THE US Federal Reserve has announced a slowdown in its effort to boost the US economy.

The central bank said it planned to scale back its $85bn (£51.8bn) a month bond buying programme by $10bn a month.

Stimulus of this kind is designed to lower interest rates and boost economic activity The Fed’s governing committee cited stronger job growth as a reason for the decision to begin winding down its programme of bond buying.

The announcement followed a two-day meeting in Washington DC. The Fed’s decision to begin to ease its extraordinary stimulus efforts also indicates that the central bank believes that the US economy has finally strengthened enough that it no longer needs as much support.

The $10bn reduction comes from two areas: the Fed will reduce its US Treasury purchases from $45bn to $40bn per month as well as its buying of mortgage-backed securities (MBS) from $40bn to $35bn per month.

In its forecast for the coming years, the Fed said the employment

situation will improve faster than previously expected.

It said the unemployment rate will fall to 6.3% in 2014 from its current level of 7%.

This could set the pace for further reductions in the Fed’s stimulus efforts in the coming year.

In a press conference to discuss the Fed’s announcement, Chairman Ben Bernanke said: “If incoming data broadly support the committee’s support for employment we will likely reduce the pace of committee’s purchases in further steps at future meetings.”

However, he also cautioned: “Continued progress is by no means certain. Adjustments will be deliberate and dependent on incoming information.”

‘SYMBOLIC’ US markets cheered the news.

The Dow Jones surged to close up 292.71 points, or 1.84%. Both the Nasdaq and S&P 500 indexes were up over 1% as well.

That is partially because, while significant, the amount of the pullback in bond-buying was slightly less than expected.

“Ultimately this a very small amount - it’s symbolic rather than more substantive,” Steve Wood, chief market strategist at Russell Investments, told the BBC. “The takeaway from this is that while the Federal Reserve might be reducing the dosage of the antibiotic, they’re not going to be discharging the patient anytime soon.”

INFLATION WOES The Fed also said it remained committed to seeing prices rise before it would completely withdraw its stimulus.

The central bank sets a target of a 2% rise in prices annually.

Currently, inflation levels are below that threshold, with the most recent consumer price index data showing a 1.2% rise in prices overall and a 1.7% rise in core prices, which exclude volatile food and energy costs.

“Nothing that we did today was intended to reduce accommodation,” Mr Bernanke said during the news conference.

“We are committed to doing what is necessary to getting inflation back to target.” (BBC)

Hacking Trial: Princes’ voicemail messages ‘were hacked’ THE private voicemails of princes William and Harry were both accessed by the now defunct News of the World, the phone-hacking trial has heard.

In one message William called Kate Middleton “babykins” and in another that he was almost shot with blanks.

An unnamed male also left a message for Prince Harry impersonating his then girlfriend Chelsey Davey.

It is the first time the jury has heard that the Duchess of Cambridge’s phone had been hacked.

Prince William was officer training at Sandhurst in 2006 when he said he “nearly got shot” with

blank rounds during a training exercise in Aldershot.

Former NoW editors Rebekah Brooks and Andy Coulson are on trial with five others accused of a number of offences, which they all deny, including conspiracy to illegally intercept voicemails.

In another message played to the court, Prince William said he was going “beagling”, or hunting with dogs, and invited his future wife to go with him.

A message from Prince William left on the duchess’s phone was discovered at the house of Clive Goodman, then royal editor at the News of the World in 2006, prosecutor Andrew Edis told the Old Bailey. (BBC)

Interpreter Thamsanqa Jantjie is reported to have signal prawns and rocking horses during Nelson Mandela’s memorial.

Mandela memorial interpreter ‘hospitalised’ THE signer at Nelson Mandela’s memorial - accused of making up gestures - has been admitted to a psychiatric hospital, local media report.

Thamsanqa Jantjie “might have had a breakdown”, his wife Siziwe is quoted as saying.

Sign language experts accused him of referring to “prawns” and “rocking horses” while translating eulogies at Mr Mandela’s memorial last week.

Mr Jantjie said he suffered a sudden attack of schizophrenia.

He insisted he was a qualified interpreter.

South Africa’s Deputy Disability Minister Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu has said the company which had employed him had “vanished”.

Mr Jantjie’s wife took him to a psychiatric hospital near Johannesburg for a check-up on Tuesday, and it was suggested that he be admitted immediately, Johannesburg’s The Star newspaper reports.

“The past few days have been hard.

We have been supportive because he might have had a breakdown,” Mrs Jantjie is quoted as saying.

Last week, Mr Jantjie said he was

supposed to have gone for a checkup on the day of the memorial, but he postponed it.

During the memorial at Johannesburg’s FNB stadium, which was broadcast live around the world, Mr Jantjie stood on the stage next to key speakers including US President Barack Obama, South African President Jacob Zuma and Mr Mandela’s grandchildren, translating their eulogies.

Mr Jantjie blamed his flawed interpretation on a schizophrenic episode, saying he had seen angels coming into the stadium.

The White House has downplayed fears that he was a security risk to Mr Obama.

Sign language experts said he had made “funny gestures” and little more than “flapping his arms around”.

The governing African National Congress (ANC) said it had used Mr Jantjie as an interpreter several times before, and “had not been aware of any of complaints regarding the quality of services, qualifications or reported illnesses” of the interpreter.

Mr Mandela died on 5 December at the age of 95 and was buried on Sunday. (BBC)

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World News

Nearly 1,000 killed over two days in Central African Republic -Report

Nelson Mandela was beloved around the world.

Mandela laid to rest: Goodbye Tata—sleep well NELSON Mandela ached to come home, his family says, and he did so Sunday -- his burial the last part of a long journey that had lasted nearly a century.

The prisoner turned president’s funeral in his childhood village of Qunu marked the end of 10 days mourning, during which tribal elders guided Mandela’s transition to the afterlife.

The funeral was a final chance for those who knew him best to say goodbye.

Mandela’s daughter Maki told me her father had always been a country boy at heart, and wanted to return to his remote farm in the Eastern Cape, one of South Africa’s most rural areas.

“Even when my father was in jail, he had the fondest memories of Qunu,” she said. “And he really wanted to die here.”

Pointing to a chair in the living room she said: “This is Tata’s special chair... he would sit like this, with a cushion here, because he enjoyed looking out into the hills.”

Mandela’s casket lay in his bedroom overlooking those hills overnight ahead of his funeral. Tribal elders held a vigil and a family prayer service took place Sunday morning.

The state funeral service was held

in a huge domed tent, surrounded by cows grazing in the neighbouring fields. Inside, 95 candles burned, each representing one year of his life.

Inside that tent -- filled with the sweet scent of white roses and lilies -- the Mandela family shared their grief with some 4,000 guests and television cameras broadcasting the service to the world.

Friends and family mourned alongside heads of state, royalty and celebrities who had made their way along South Africa’s back roads to Mandela’s burial place.

As well as being about family and loss, the state funeral was a mixture of power and politics, of belonging and belief.

Mandela had a canny knack of building relationships and among those at his funeral were those who represented the old apartheid order.

The great reconciliator continued to bring people together in death, just as he had in life.

Mandela’s burial, however, was private. A few hundred mourners walked up the hills where he had played as a child to say goodbye.

Mandela’s eldest daughter carried a reed mat that was laid on the floor of the grave, evoking the sense Mandela was going to rest on a traditional sleeping mat.

Ex-president Michelle Bachelet wins Chile poll run-off LEFT-WING candidate Michelle Bachelet has been elected Chilean president for a second time by a wide margin.

With almost all the votes counted, Ms Bachelet had 62% against 38% for Evelyn Matthei, a former minister from the governing centreright coalition.

Ms Bachelet first served from 2006 to 2010, but under Chile’s constitution she could not stand for a second consecutive term.

She narrowly missed out on outright victory in the first round last month.

BBC Mundo’s Ignacio de los Reyes said that hundreds of people applauded Ms Bachelet when she took to the stage outside the headquarters of her coalition in the centre of Santiago, some even cried with joy.

Many of them were women, members of the gay and lesbian community and environmentalists - some of the core groups that supported Ms Bachelet throughout her campaign.

In her victory speech, Ms Bachelet, 62, said she would carry out “deep reforms needed in Chile”, but she assured voters she would do so “responsibly”.

Ms Bachelet is now set to become the first leader in Chile to serve two terms since the military rule of Gen Augusto Pinochet from 1973 to 1990.

Her rival, Evelyn Matthei, 60, conceded defeat and congratulated Ms Bachelet in person.

A paediatrician by training, Ms Bachelet won 47% of the vote in the first round on 17 November. Ms Matthei secured 25%.

Ms Bachelet leads an alliance of her Socialist Party, Christian Democrats and Communists and has campaigned on policies designed to reduce the gap between rich and poor.

Chile is one of the richest countries in Latin America, but millions have staged protests over the past few years to push for a wider distribution of wealth and better education.

FORMER rebels in the Central African Republic killed almost 1,000 in a two-day rampage earlier this month, Amnesty International said, as together with Human Rights Watch it warned of a surge in sectarian violence.

War crimes and crimes against humanity are being committed in the country, Amnesty International said.

“Crimes that have been committed include extrajudicial executions, mutilation of bodies, intentional destruction of religious buildings such as mosques, and the forced displacement of massive numbers of people,” said Christian Mukosa, Amnesty International’s Central Africa expert.

The country has seen violence and chaos since the Muslim-backed Seleka militia and other rebel groups from the marginalised northeast seized the capital Bangui in March.

President Francios Bozize fled to Cameroon, and Michel Djotodia, who had been one of the Seleka leaders, made himself President.

Djotodia later officially disbanded the Seleka, but as many as 15,000 kept their arms and instead continued to wreak havoc in Bangui and elsewhere. They mainly targeted Christian communities, which in turn formed their own vigilante group, the anti-balaka (literally “anti-machete”).

Anti-balaka forces staged an early morning attack in the capital on December 5, going door to door in some neighborhoods and killing approximately 60 Muslim men, Amnesty International said.

De facto government forces, known as ex-Seleka, retaliated against Christians, killing nearly 1,000 men over a two-day period, according to the rights group. A small number of women and children also were killed.

In a statement, Amnesty International called for the deployment of a “robust” U.N. peacekeeping force, with a mandate to protect civilians, and enough

Muslim men rough up a Christian man while checking him for weapons in Bangui.

resources to do so effectively.

“The continuing violence, the extensive destruction of property, and the forced displacement of the population in Bangui are feeding enormous anger, hostility and mistrust,” said Mukosa.

“There can be no prospect of ending the cycle of violence until the militias are disarmed and there is proper and effective protection for the thousands of civilians at risk in the country. Residential neighborhoods must be made safe as an urgent priority in order to allow people to go back to their homes and resume their normal lives.”

In a separate report, Human Rights Watch cited a surge in

violence around the northern town of Bossangoa since September, adding concerned countries should immediately bolster the African Union peacekeeping force in the country and support efforts by France to protect civilians.

In the report, Human Rights Watch said Christian militias attacked Muslim communities, cutting the throats of children while forcing parents to watch.

Muslim groups retaliated, setting fire to Christian homes and killing their occupants with the apparent approval of commanders present, Human Rights Watch said.

The recent violence has created a humanitarian crisis.

Bahamas denies profiling immigrants THE Bahamas government says it will continue to pursue socalled spot checks and has denied claims that it is profiling specific immigrants.

Immigration and Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell says the Perry Christie government has not singled out certain immigrants as part of the profiling policy of its

administration.

Mitchell says the constitution makes it clear that there must be reasonable suspicion of violating immigration laws.

He pointed out that a spot check conducted by the authorities on December 11 had resulted in the arrest of 105 people and a significant amount of outstanding fees collected. (Jamaica Gleaner)

Ukraine’s president tells West to keep out of crisis UKRAINE’S Russian-backed President, Viktor Yanukovych, has said he strongly opposes Western politicians intervening in the crisis in Ukraine.

He also suggested that Ukraine could adopt parts of Russia’s recently founded Customs Union with other former Soviet republics.

The opposition is furious after he accepted a Russian bailout, seen as a reward for rejecting EU integration.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said he was defending the Russian economy.

“We just want to defend our gates,” he told journalists in Moscow, days after Russia gave Ukraine a $15bn (£9.2bn; 10.9bn euros) bailout and gas discount.

Ukraine, he said, was a fraternal state with close industrial ties to Russia.

Protests have gripped much of Ukraine since President Yanukovych suspended the EU deal last month.

The opposition has been demanding to know what, if any, conditions the Kremlin attached to its

decision to buy $15bn in Ukrainian government bonds and slash the gas price from more than $400 per 1,000 cubic metres to $268.5.

Russia’s financial help averted a debt crisis for Ukraine in the short term.

‘OBSERVER STATUS’ At a news conference in Kiev on Thursday, Mr Yanukovych was asked about visits to the pro-EU protest camp by foreign politicians who have included US Republican Senator John McCain, EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton, former German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle and others.

“I am categorically against anybody coming and teaching us how to live,” he said.

“What is very important is that this is our internal matter, and that other countries do not intervene in our internal affairs.”

He said the deal with Moscow did not run counter to Ukraine’s course towards European integration and blamed Ukraine’s current economic problems on the policies

of his predecessors, the leaders of Ukraine’s pro-Western Orange Revolution.

Asked why the Ukrainian economy was in such trouble, Mr Yanukovych said the gas contract signed with Russia by former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko in 2009 had incurred a loss of $20bn.

Another problem, he said, was the repayment of an IMF loan of $16.4bn negotiated in 2008, and a third factor was the recent fall in trade with Russia and other ex-Soviet states.

Asked about his position on the Customs Union, he said that Ukraine only had observer status but he suggested that it could adopt certain clauses.

“Ukraine’s government is studying these clauses and, once conclusions are drawn, the corresponding transparent decisions will be taken on which clauses we will adhere to,” he said.

Ukraine’s pro-EU protesters have rejected any move to join the Customs Union, which was set up in 2010 and includes Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan. (BBC)

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Classifieds

December 21 – January 3, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate

Blue Whale Tours and Excursions Seeking Full Time

Sales/Marketing Manager

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

GRAND SLAM/ GWENDOLYN LTD. Is looking for a

$7.00 per hour

FOR RENT

3-bedroom apartment $1100.00 per month it will be available May 1st.

contact: 946-4664

Qualifications/Responsibilities:

• College degree in management • 10+ years’ experience in operations of small business • Extensive knowledge of Quick Books Accounting System • Fluent English • Ability to work long/flexible hours • Superb customer service skills • Knowledge of marketing • Familiar with tourism Qualified Candidates Need Only Apply

Sales clerk

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 231-4420

Forward Resume To: info@bluewhaleexcursions.com

QUALITY SUPERMARKET

JEAN CHARLES

Providenciales Telephone: 941-7930

9560

MERCEDEZ BEAUTY SALON IS LOOKING FOR 1

9555

Must be willing to work 6 days a week. Salary starts at $5.00 per hour

domestic HAIR worker STYLIST TO WORK 6 DAYS To work 6 days per

week salary $5.00 per hour email resume to: eucaldelanceyiii@ gmail.com 9548

FOR SALE

Is looking for a

VALERIA HOUSEMAN

CHARLTON GARDINER IS LOOKING FOR

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

LABOURER

TYSON’S TAKE AWAY LTD.

A WEEK. SALARY $5.00 PER HOUR.

CONTACT: 346-9908 / 346-9905

9541

baker

To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.50 per hour email: tysonstakeaway@ gmail.com 9547

Domestic Labourer To keep the garden

clean must be willing to work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

contact: 241-6398 9546

CABINET MAKER FOR NORTH CAICOS TO WORK 5 DAYS A WEEK. SALARY $10.00 PER HOUR

CONTACT: 241-7575

Construction scaffold and roof tiles for sale CONTACT: 431-1591 OR 231-3788

9538

December 21 – January 3, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Pelican Bay Restaurant and Bar

is situated on Grace Bay Beach at the Luxury All-Suite Royal West Indies Resort.

Pelican Bay delights guests with exceptional all-day dining; an outstanding variety dinner menu; and the most delectable breakfast and Sunday Brunch

Position Available

Line/Cook @@ Must have 10 years Culinary Experience @@ Knowledge of food costing and controls, monthly inventory, @@ Knowledge of food hygiene and safety, menu planning, managing and scheduling staff, @@ Prep food for Breakfast/lunch /dinner @@ Ability to understand menus follow recipes, basic sauces/ butchery. High level of food hygiene is required. Must be willing to scrub, clean, mop, floors walls and equipment

For more information on job descriptions, please contact info@pelicanbaytci.com or 231-1689.

Please call for an appointment, bring along your resume and resident status

NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE BOARD The Turks & Caicos Islands National Health Insurance Board (NHIB) invites applications from suitably qualified persons for the post of Chief Financial Officer.

Chief Financial Officer

DISCOUNT LIQUORS AND WINE CELLAR IS LOOKING FOR AN

ACCOUNTANT

REQUIREMENTS • Diploma in accounting • A minimum of 5 years experience as an accountant • Excellent knowledge of QuickBooks accounting software is a must

DESCRIPTION OF POSITION: • Ability to complete full sets of Financial Statements • Inventory management • Assist the Financial Controller and co-workers in all other areas deemed necessary Note the position is open for a limited period of 1.5 year Salary commensurate with experience

Applications must be submitted to: DISCOUNT LIQUORS & WINE CELLAR. EMAIL: DISCOUNT@TCIWAY.TC or FAX: 649-946-4871 NO TELEPHONE CALLS PLEASE

Meridian Mortgage Corporation Ltd as chargee, pursuant to the Registered Land Ordinance, hereby gives notice that it will cause to be sold the property listed below by private treaty.

The Title No. 50500/96, Whitby, North Caicos comprising 5.0 acres of beachfront land with partially constructed foundation, 2 lots west of St. Charles resort on Whitby Beach, North Caicos. The subject property enjoys approximately 288 linear foot of beachfront.

Suitable for luxury home or commercial development.

Title – Absolute Proprietor – Prickly Pear Investment Company Ltd. – Clarence Wesley Selver Approximate Area – 5.0 acres Attractable financing available to qualified purchasers!

For additional information: Kindly contact Meridian Trust Company Ltd. at (649) 941-3082.

Meridian Trust Company Ltd. P.O. Box 599, Level 2, Le Vele Plaza, Grace Bay, Providenciales

The Chief Financial Officer is responsible for directing the fiscal functions of the NHIB in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards and any other financial management techniques and practices appropriate within the health and insurance industry.

9552

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Minimum Qualification & Experience Required:

Candidates should have a Master ’s degree in Accounting or equivalent combination of education and experience, preferably with professional qualification as a CPA or any equivalent accounting designation. At least 5 years of experience in a senior finance management role is a must.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:• Experienced financial leader with appropriate industry experience, strong supervisory and mentoring skills, high ethical standards, exceptional analytical and problem solving, well- organized and self-directed, excellent written/verbal communication, speak, read and write in excellent English language, proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel Spreadsheets and Pivot Tables, and Accounting software packages, effective time management skills.

• Solid understanding of international financial reporting standards • Team worker who is willing to take a hands-on approach to the role.

Salary • Salary shall commensurate with qualifications and experience.

• Deadline for submission: December 20, 2013 All applications shall be addressed to:

Zaneta Burton Chief Executive Officer National Health Insurance Board Salt Mills Plaza Providenciales Turks & Caicos Islands British West Indies Email: recruitment@tcinhip.tc

9562

Sale by private treaty

Job Summary

• Plan, develop, organize, implement, direct and evaluate the NHIB’s fiscal function and performance.

• Participate in the development of the company’s plans and programs as a strategic partner.

• Evaluate and advise on the impact of long-range planning and the introduction of new programs/strategies • Provide timely and accurate analysis of budgets, financial reports and financial trends in order to assist the CEO and the Board in performing their responsibilities.

• Develop, implement and enforce financial policies and procedures that will improve the overall operation, efficiency and effectiveness of the company.

• Provide technical financial knowledge and advice to others within the financial discipline.

• May perform other duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor or any other person authorized to give instructions or assignments.

• Lead the timely completion of the financial statement audit process.

• Assist in the completion of key accounting functions such as reconciliations, manage and supervise the finance, compliance and billing teams.

37

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

CARIBBEAN CRUSIN’ LTD. Is seeking to hire a qualified person to fill the position of

Operations Manager Duties:

• Maintain and review the schedule of services, both prearranged ferry trips and custom charter trips. Check, record and balance the number of guests on all trips whether scheduled ferry or charter.

• Monitor and control the receipt of funds and the payment of funds related to the daily operation of the business. Ensure that an accurate record of all receipts and expenditures is kept.

• Maintain and review the maintenance schedule of all vessels and vehicles owned by the business. Ensure that all vessels and vehicles are maintained according to company policy.

• Supervise Train, Motivate, Discipline, and Review and generally manage all other staff.

• The continuity and success of the business relies on satisfied customer experiences. The operations manager is responsible for ensuring that the customer satisfaction rate remains and that scheduled ferry trips and charter schedules are honoured in a timely fashion.

• The manager will be responsible for all vehicles and vessels that are conducting company business at all times of the day.

Qualifications • • • • • •

5 years experience on a Passenger Vessel in local water 5 years experience in Marine Management Proven track record in corporate and personnel management Local Capitan’s license Maritime safety certification Salary commensurate with experience and commission base on revenue generated.

Hours of Work

The Ferry Schedule is from 6:30am to 6:30pm, Monday to Saturday and 9:30am to 5:15pm on Sundays.

Human Resource Manager Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI Fax: 941-3223. Tel: 941-3082 9558

38

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

St Lucia health authorities warn of possible dengue epidemic ST. LUCIA has been warned of the possibility of a dengue epidemic after health authorities said that they were investigated more than 200 suspected cases.

They said so far 220 suspected dengue cases have been have been reported to the Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPA) with seven confirmed and one death so far this year.

But the Ministry of Health said that increased surveillance has reflected a decrease in the number of cases over the past two weeks.

“Most of these cases are in the populated north of the island, but what is of more significance is the potential to have a major dengue epidemic,” said epidemiologist Naihum JnBaptiste.

“One of the things that the environmental health branch does for dengue control is environmental management in terms of the habitats that breed the aegis egypti mosquitoes.

“What we have found in the most populated regions in the islands north is that the potential for spread of dengue is huge. In fact the literature informs that if you can get more than five out of 100 containers as breeding ground for mosquitoes, then you are at high risk for a dengue epidemic.

They said so far 220 suspected dengue cases have been have been reported to the Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPA) with seven confirmed and one death so far this year.

“In all of those northern areas the level was 20 infected containers to as high as 80,” Jn Baptiste said, calling on the public to be aware of the symptoms and to avoid the breeding of the mosquito by frequently checking and removing stagnant water from their premises.

Jn Baptiste said that dengue may be spreading its tentacles beyond the rainy season.

“With respect to persons who have

the symptoms of dengue, we want to caution against getting complacent after the fever subsides. As long as symptoms such as diarrhoea, stomach pain, dehydration and bleeding remain, these are danger signs and treatments needs to be escalated in the presence of a health care provider.”

The aegis egypti mosquito breeds in artificial containers mainly found in homes with a life cycle averaging seven days. (CMC)

December 21 – January 3, 2014

First case of chikungunya recorded in the Caribbean The Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) Tuesday said that for the first time, locally-acquired cases of chikungunya have been detected in the region.

CARPHA said it had recently received notification of 10 confirmed cases of locally acquired chikungunya virus infection on the French side of the Caribbean island of Saint Martin.

Chikungunya is a viral disease, carried mainly by the Aedes aegypti mosquito and causes a dengue-like sickness.

Symptoms include a sudden high fever, severe pain in the wrists, ankles or knuckles, muscle pain, headache, nausea, and rash.

Joint pain and stiffness are more common with chikungunya than with dengue.

The symptoms appear between four to seven days after the bite of an infected mosquito.

The majority of clinical signs and symptoms last three to 10 days, but joint pain may persist longer. Severe cases requiring hospitalisation are rare.

CARPHA said that health authorities on both sides of the island of St. Martin were cooperating closely in response to the cases and have enhanced epidemiological surveillance,

Severe cases requiring hospitalisation are rare.

carried out measures to control mosquito breeding sites and are advising people on how to protect themselves.

“There is currently no evidence of cases on the Dutch side of the island, or in other parts of the Caribbean,” said CARPHA warning “there is no vaccine or treatment for chikungunya, which has infected millions of people in Africa and Asia since the disease was first recorded in 1952. (CMC)

Jamaica to earn close to US$2B from tourism JAMAICA’S tourism earnings are to remain under US$2 billion this year even as tourism officials predict a robust winter season which is expected to push stopover arrivals to over two million.

Minister of Tourism, Dr. Wykeham McNeill, says despite the numerous challenges faced by the island over the past year, he anticipates that the country should welcome a record two million stopover visitors and earn close to US$2 billion this year. This is expected to be below the US$1.98 billion earned in 2010 when 1.9 million tourists visited the island.

In his message marking the start of the Winter Tourist Season, which began yesterday, McNeill says he’s optimistic about the prospects for this season and that Jamaica is on track for a good winter tourist season.

He noted that preliminary estimates for January through to November show that Jamaica has welcomed over 1.8 million stopover visitors. According to him, the tourism ministry is encouraged by the number of advanced bookings and the excitement that brand Jamaica still generates in both traditional and non-traditional markets.

McNeill also points to encouraging prospects in the cruise tourism industry. He says Jamaica is anticipating growth for 2014 with a projection of 1.4 million cruise ship visitors, which would make it a record year.

The tourism minister is also urging all Jamaicans to support and enhance Jamaica’s tourism sector, which he says attracts millions of visitors from around the world and brings in millions of much needed foreign exchange annually. (Jamaica Gleaner)

The airline was reported to have secured a US$50M loan to sidestep the problem.

Over two-million tourists are expected for the winter season.

Bermuda to put gaming question to parliament, shelves referendum plan

BERMUDA’S government is shelving plans to put the question of gaming to a popular referendum, and will be moving the question to a vote by Parliament, the ruling One Bermuda Alliance party announced.

Instead, the government will be conducting a public information and consultation campaign, it said, before bringing the Gaming Bill to a vote in the House.

A spokesperson for the OBA said the government felt that “Bermuda’s economic recovery was too delicate, too important for political games.

Jobs and new investment depend on

our not allowing politics to derail this process.”

The gaming referendum had been one of the OBA’s election pledges.

“Yes, the decision does not fulfill an election pledge to hold a referendum, but the government made a more important promise to people and that was to do all it could to create jobs,” the OBA said in a release on Saturday. “That, of course, is the government’s number one priority.”

Casinos are not currently permitted in Bermuda.

(Caribjournal)

Caribbean Airline narrowly staved off having 11 planes seized – fired CFO CARIBBEAN Airlines Ltd (CAL) narrowly averted having 11 of its aircraft seized by hurriedly securing a US$50 million (TT$320 million) loan from First Citizens bank to cover outstanding arrears owed to the International Lease Finance Corporation (ILFC).

This claim has been made by fired CAL chief financial officer Shiva Ramnarine in a report dated August 20, 2013, to Finance Minister Larry Howai and Minister in the Ministry, Vasant Bharath.

The ILFC is CAL’s largest lease provider.

According to Ramnarine’s report, the near catastrophe that was kept quiet occurred in March this year when ILFC served a notice of default on CAL demanding payment or stop flying the 11 Boeing 767-800 aircraft.

Seizure of the aircraft would have led to chaos and cancellation of flights as the 11 Boeing 767-800 make up a major part of the airline’s

fleet.

Checks on CAL’s website show the airline’s fleet is made up of 15 Boeing 767-800, five ATRs 72-600 and two Boeing 767-300 ER. The Express understands it was Ramnarine, (who was terminated on August 4 this year after it was alleged he acted contrary to proper procedures) who negotiated with ILFC head Jorge Garcia to settle outstanding payments. As a result the default notice was quietly withdrawn.

The Express learned it was also agreed that the default notice would not have been brought to the attention of the T&T Civil Aviation Authority (TTCAA) after discussions between Ramnarine and Jorge.

And while CAL last Saturday denied any knowledge of the notice of default, a copy of the document dated March 15, 2013 obtained by the Express shows that the total amount that was due and owing under the 28255 lease was US$252,923.48.

December 21 – January 3, 2014

39

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

MerryChristmas to all our readers

Weekly News C h r i s t m a s

e d i t i o n

The night before Christmas

by Clement Clarke Moore

'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there; The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads; And mamma in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled down for a long winter's nap, When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.

Away to the window I flew like a flash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below, When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer, With a little old driver, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.

More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,

And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name; "Now, Dasher! Now, Dancer!

Now, Prancer and Vixen!

On, Comet! On Cupid! On, Donder and Blitzen!

To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!

Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky, So up to the house-top the coursers they flew, With the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too.

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.

As I drew in my hand, and was turning around, Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot; A bundle of toys he had flung on his back, And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.

His eyes -- how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!

His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!

Santa Claus

Come Christmastime, children all around the world await the arrival of Santa Claus. Although many of his abilities are the result of folklore, there actually was a Santa Claus, or St. Nicholas. The real St. Nicholas lived in Turkey. He was a bishop in the town of Myra during the fourth century. According to Dutch legend, Sinter Klaas, or St. Nicholas, brought gifts at Christmas, either through an open window or down a chimney. This legend is the basis of the Santa Claus we know and love today.

St. Nicholas takes on many personas depending on the country in which his tale is being told. For most, he is a plump and jolly man with a penchant for cookies and milk.

His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow; The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath; He had a broad face and a little round belly, That shook, when he laughed like a bowlful of jelly.

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself; A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,

Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread; He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk, And laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose; He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.

But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight, "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night."

40

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 – January 3, 2014

December 21 – January 3, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

41

42 CLASSIFIEDS

December 21 – January 3, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PRITON DEVELOPMENT LTD.

DDB HOLDINGS LTD. HAS THE FOLLOWING POSTIONS AVAILABLE

CONSULTING REPRESENTATIVE Must have the following:

• 5 years experience and bachelors degree from an accredited university • Strong communication, presentation and writing skills • Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills • Strong user research skills • Detail-oriented • Flexible to new situations and challenges • Accept to a Drug free work place/Random Drug screening • Extensive working knowledge of quick books point of sale and back office • Ability to be punctual (work begins at 7:30 am- 5:30 pm every day) • Be knowledgeable on buildings and maintaining customer relations • No criminal background

SEEKS

Financial Controller Must have at least 10 years experience. Must have a degree in Business Studies.

Must be proficient with Microsoft Excel and Quick Books. Must have good knowledge of construction and able to manage a large team of construction workers.Must be able to work on holidays, weekends and any overtime required by management.Salary is based on experience. Priton also seeks a Maintenance Worker, must have at least 3 years experience and be able to work with little supervision. Salary start at $6.00 an hour and is based on experience.

Interested persons should be dependable and send applications via fax at (649) 941-4034

C/o Alliance Realty Ltd, Deadline for applications is December 24th 2013. Only persons chosen will be contacted.

9556

DUNCANSON & CO. Barristers & Attorneys

Duties include:

Responsible for maximizing profits and minimizing costs, Marketing, Logistics, Customer Service and finance. Assist in order placing as well as receiving inventory. Ensuring standards for quality and health and safety are met. Responding to customer complaints and comments.

Creating and fostering new relationships with new and perspective clients. General Supervision of employees. Willingness to complete all tasks at hand with a positive and respectful attitude.

Please forward resume to: DDB Holdings Ltd., Leeward Highway Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Tel: 941-7432

PUBLIC NOTICE DUNCANSON & CO. Barristers & Attorneys are pleased to announce the re-opening of our Leeward Highway Office for ongoing legal services to the public. We are located in our own building across the street from the Supreme Court complex, next door to the offices of TC Weekly News and between that and the St. Monica's Anglican Church.

We specialize in: • Civil Litigation (Particular competencies: Judicial Review and other claims against TCI Government/Departments, Mareva and other Injunctions, Land, Trust & Bank disputes) • Property Matters, Planning Department & Development Issues • Business Law • Immigration • Labour Disputes

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS GOVERNMENT

VACANCY NOTICE

Telephone: (649) 941-4444 Telefax: (649) 941-4235 Cellphone: (649) 245-1314 email: berynd@yahoo.com DUNCANSON & CO.

Custodian (1)

Barristers & Attorneys

PO Box 52, Cheshire House East 1315A Leeward Highway, Providenciales

Sports Department/Ministry of Education. Providenciales PURPOSE OF JOB

The job holder follows instructions from the supervisor to ensure that sporting facilities are secure and clean. The holder ensures that order is maintained by users and monitors the entry, exit and compliance of users at all facilities.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lock and unlock assigned facilities. Secure building when facilities are not in use.

Report unauthorized occupants.

• Ensure all utilities are turned off when facilities are not in use.

• Ensure regular maintenance of all tools and equipment. Follow instructions on the use of chemicals for cleaning and safeguarding equipment.

• Assist with the setting up of sporting equipment and tents. Assist with the storage of supplies and equipment.

• Assist with inventory control. Make note of equipment needing repairs or replacing.

• Ensure that users are protected by providing security and prohibiting or allowing entrance and/exit to potential users at facilities and sporting events.

• Maintain lawn (artificial and natural) to include trimming, pruning, and cleaning.

• Keep all premises in clean and orderly condition whenever cleaners have completed their day of service. This may include sweeping, mopping and taking out garbage.

• Adhere to all Public Service codes, rules and regulations.

• Perform any other related tasks which may be assigned.

Waiter

Candidates must have a minimum of four years’ experience in Hospitality Industry, in Food and Beverage operations. Service includes fine dining restaurant, pool and beach service. Knowledge of Micros POS is preferable but not essential.

Candidates must be prepared to work extended hours, split shifts and have flexibility with working days/nights/weekends and holidays as required.

Wage range: $5.00 to $7.00 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.

Labourer

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

Is seeking a general labourer, this position is responsible for cleaning all common areas (stairwells, patios, public bathrooms etc.), garbage removal and cleaning of garbage areas, general housekeeping duties and laundry assistance. Several years experience in a similar position is required, as well as good communication skills, including excellent English; must have a pleasant and outgoing personality. Must be willing to work evenings, weekends and holidays.

• A high School leaving certificate • First aid certificate ( desirable) • Two to three years’ experience / training in security controls is essential

RENUMERATION PACKAGE $12,608.00 per annum

Wages range: $5.00 to $6.50 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.

HOW TO APPLY

Resumes with current contact information must be accompanied by a Cover Letter, two letters of reference (one preferably from a former employer), copies of educational certificates, a Police Certificate and a copy of the Passport photo page. Current serving officers must apply through their Heads of Department.

Maintenance Technician

Is seeking a well-qualified candidate for the position of Maintenance Technician. We require an all-round Maintenance Technician with experience in plumbing and electrical repairs, painting, pool maintenance, tool and equipment maintenance, Klargester sewage systems, woodwork and general labour.

Candidate must be prepared to work weekends and holidays, and be on-call evenings.

Applications should be addressed to the Office of the Human Resource Management Directorate, Church Folly, Grand Turk. Submitted via Facsimile: 946-1582 or sent by email to: recruitment@gov.tc with the subject line being: Custodian-Ministry of Education. Envelopes should have the subject: Custodian-Ministry of Education marked on the front.

Wages range: $5 to $9 per hour depending on experience and qualifications.

Deadline: December 24th, 2013 QUALIFIED BELONGERS WILL BE GIVEN FIRST CONSIDERATION ONLY SUITABLE CANDIDATES WILL BE ACKNOWLEDGED

9549

Belongers only need apply Please apply in writing to: Human Resources, Point Grace, PO Box 700, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Email: humanresources@pointgrace.com or Fax: 946-5097. No phone calls.

9550

December 21 – January 3, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

AGNES SWANN Is looking for a

PROFESSIONAL

SERVICE OF JEWELRY

Candidate must have at least 3-5 years experience in the field, Reappearing Jewelry. Clean Police Record, to work 6 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact# 244-2709 9535

laboUrer

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 246-4769 9581

CLASSIFIEDS 43

Bonefishing Guide Wanted Fishing the flats of North Caicos. Must have own transport and hold or be willing to acquire necessary certification(s), permits and licenses.

Compensation according to experience. Willing to train the right candidate.

Belonger preferred.

Contact: 232 4141 Email: greatbonefishing@ gmail.com 9581

GOVERNMENT VACANCY HEALTH REGULATORY AGENCY DIRECTOR MINISTRY: Health and Human Services LOCATION: Providenciales.

JOB SUMMARY:

The incumbent in this position will be responsible to ensure that all health facilities in the Turks and Caicos Islands are registered. The successful candidate will also provide and maintain a high standard of service as determined by or under the Health Regulatory Authority Ordinance or a similar Ordinance seeking to regulate the provision of health services in the Islands.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manages all Project Management processes that are critical for the timely attainment of deliverables by Inter Health Canada (ICL) and the Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG).

• Develops on- island clinical solutions to meet local demands where cost-effective solutions are viable.

• Develops medical tourism to support the on-going investment in the TCI hospital Programme.

• Ensures the maximum use of human, financial and technical resources for the successful completion of the contract.

• Oversees the delivery of timely performance and financial information flows between ICL and TCIG which include updates to databases.

• Provides logistical support for any activities between ICL and TCIG. • Manages the accounting processes, disbursement of finances and the procurement incurred under the project/contract and for the Ministry.

• Monitors, verifies and informs the Contract Management Board of any discrepancies or anomalies that are found in the day-to-day management of the contract.

• Convenes and chairs meetings of the Contract Management Team and implements decisions of the team.

• Receives and disseminates Monthly Reports, Change Requests and Statistical data.

• In respect of non-clinical performance, institutes inspections, investigations and issuing performance failures or unavailability of events and resultant deductions.

• In respect of clinical procedures, establishes a Service Review Board that would conduct service reviews.

• Supervises staff assigned to the Project.

• Receives and disseminates Monthly Reports, Change Requests and Statistical data.

• In respect of non-clinical performance, institutes inspections, investigations and issuing performance failures or unavailability of events and resultant deductions.

• In respect of clinical procedures, establishes a Service Review Board that would conduct service reviews.

• Supervises staff assigned to the Project.

• Develops policies and standards for the provision of health services • Reviews Inspection and evaluation reports of Health Facilities submitted by the Health Compliance Officer or other designated person • Reviews adverse outcome reports submitted by the National Health Insurance Board (NHIB), hospitals, clinics or directly by the general public or via the Health Professions Boards • Oversees and ensures that the financial affairs of the HRA are well managed and audited in accordance with the law related to public financial management and procurement • Appropriates regular reporting to the Ministry of Health and the public on the performance of the functions of the HRA • Prepares an annual operating and revenue budget for the HRA • Prepares an HRA annual report for the submission to the Ministry of Health • Develops appropriately robust standard operating procedures for the conduct of the business of the HRA • Develops policies for improving health services delivery in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Health Advisory Council • Monitor s changes in standards of health care services delivery nationally, regionally and internationally • In collaboration with the Director of Health Services make recommendations for changes in health standards, policies or guidelines by preparing policy briefs for presentation to the Ministry of Health • Reviews and deliberates on health facilities license applications in conjunction with the Chairs of the Health Professions Boards and other relevant government technical officers • Conducts inspection of health facilities physical plant and administrative and clinical services policies, procedures and standards in collaboration with relevant government and non-government technical officers.

• Issues health facility licenses in accordance with the regulations governing the establishment of health facilities in public and private sectors • Reviews and monitors the performance of the Interhealth Canada contracted hospitals key performance indicators (KPI) and prepare regular reports for the Ministry of Health Contract Management Team.

• Reviews of adverse health outcome statistics in collaboration with the Director of Health Services and the Chief of Epidemiology and Research.

• Makes recommendations for the investigation of adverse health outcome in all health facilities.

• Reviews statistics on medical referral overseas in collaboration with the NHIB. • Prepare detailed complaint investigation reports for submission to all relevant agencies or bodies.

• Investigate breaches in patients confidential information and make recommendations for assessment of professional conduct where appropriate and rectification of weaknesses in health information management.

• Investigate to conduct of human subject research not approved by the Adhoc Ethics Committee and make recommendations for penalties under the HRA regulations.

• Attend meetings, workshops and conferences on behalf of the HRA and for personal professional development.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

GOVERNMENT VACANCY ICL CONTRACT MANAGER MINISTRY: Health and Human Services LOCATION: Grand Turk.

JOB SUMMARY:

The incumbent in this position is required to monitor and coordinate the implementation of all obligations under the hospital project/contract agreement. This post holder is required to function as the Secretariat for the Contract Management Team (CMT), provide impartial, accurate and timely advice to the Permanent Secretary on the status of the hospital contract; develop a methodology for the preparation and delivery of the Value / Market testing exercise.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• • • •

A Master’s Degree in Financial Management or related field.

Strong Project Management experience would be desirable.

Familiarity with Contract Law as well as databases would be an asset.

Seven (7) years experience in a senior position in overseeing and coordinating major programmes/projects.

COMPENSATION:

• Basic Salary: $68,800.00 per annum • Housing Allowance: $7,380.00 - $9,000.00 per annum (Subject to marital status and island where posted) • Transportation Allowance: $1,680 per annum (If personal vehicle is used in the execution of duties) • Island Allowance: $2,400.00 per annum (Subject to island where posted) • Telephone Allowance: $ 1,200 per annum

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Resumes with current contact information must be accompanied by a Cover Letter, two letters of reference (one preferably from a former employer), copies of educational certificates, a Police Certificate and a copy of the Passport photo page. Applications should be addressed to the Office of the Human Resource Directorate, Church Folly, Grand Turk. Facsimile: 946-1582 or sent by email to: recruitment@gov.tc with the subject line ICL Contract Manager. Applications sent by post or brought by hand should have the subject: ICL Contract Manager Application clearly marked on the envelopes. Successful applicants will work in accordance with the Public Service Ordinance.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 20th December, 2013

• • • •

A minimum of 5 years experience in managing health facilities; Physician with at least 5 years experience in the field of general medicine; Master’s Degree in Public Health Certificate in Health Policy and Management;

COMPENSATION:

• Basic Salary: $44,400.00 per annum plus allowances

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Resumes with current contact information must be accompanied by a Cover Letter, two letters of reference (one preferably from a former employer), copies of educational certificates, a Police Certificate and a copy of the Passport photo page.

Applications should be addressed to the Office of the Human Resource Directorate, Church Folly, Grand Turk. Facsimile: 946-1582 or sent by email to: recruitment@ gov.tc with the subject line Health Regulatory Agency Director. Applications sent by post or brought by hand should have the subject: Health Regulatory Agency Director Application clearly marked on the envelopes. Successful applicants will work in accordance with the Public Service Ordinance.

Current serving officers must apply through their heads of department.

Qualified belongers will be given first consideration.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 20th December, 2013

44 CLASSIFIEDS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS COVE CONSTRUCTION LTD.

FLOWER GIRL

WISHES TO EMPLOY A

LABOURER delivery Is looking for a Part-time

WITH A MINIMUM OF 3 YRS. EXPERIENCE. MUST BE VERY PROFICIENT, HONEST AND RELIABLE WORKER AND ALSO WILLING TO WORK WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS. CLEAN POLICE RECORD IS ESSENTIAL. BELONGERS ONLY NEED TO APPLY.

driver

With own transportation who is interested in making extra cash.

Contact: 231-3788 AGNES SWANN Is looking for a

PLEASE CONTACT MR.KEITH HOWELL (PRODUCTION MANAGER). TEL. 941-5548 EMAIL: keith.cove@tciway.tc

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 246-4769

9537

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 243-7785

9526

• Applicants must b able to work outdoors performing manual and physical laborer • Must be able to operate a jackhammer, lawnmower and chainsaw • Must be willing to dig holes, mix and spread topsoil/cow manure and plant • Must be able to speak and communicate in English • Starting salary $5.00 per hour and maybe required to work on weekends and holidays if needed Please bring all applications to Environmental Arts located at #65 Beechwood Road, Grace Bay, Providenciales or email to: admin@ enviromentalarts.tc

Successful applicants will be notified by phone for an interview 9561

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Is looking for a

Labourer

GARDENERS/ LABORERS NEEDED

9540

ALBERT’S CLEANING SERVICES

Labourer

December 21 – January 3, 2014

FOR RENT

3-bedroom apartment $1100.00 per month it will be available May 1st.

contact: 946-4664

Amazing Value!

Lot for Sale

In Gated/Planned Community in Long Bay. Flamingo Crossing lot comes with full set of House Plans, all underground utilities, etc.

$49,999 o.b.o.

Call 231-3788

SAILROCK DEVELOPMENT LIMITED is seeking qualified candidates for an immediate opening of

SENIOR CONSTRUCTION MANAGER To act as Owner’s representative during construction of infrastructure, hospitality and residential components of Sailrock Development. Job responsibilities include developing and monitoring project budgets and schedules, developing and implementing a quality assurance program and acting as Owners representative to all parties involved in the construction process including vendors, contractors, design professionals and government entities.

Applicant will have a minimum of 15 yrs experience in delivering Design-Build for commercial, historic restoration, retail, residential and hospitality's projects. Applicant will have a minimum of 15 yrs experience managing multi-discipline design teams as a Construction Project Manager both as a consultant and as a direct employee of the project Owner. Experience required in design, construction management as well as site and infrastructure development. Applicant will have a solid background in estimating, budgeting, bidding, contract management, scheduling, project planning and quality control. Applicant must be fluent in Microsoft Office Suite including Microsoft Schedule and Adobe Graphics Suite A degree in Architecture or Engineering or Civil Engineering Applicant must be willing to establish permanent residency on South Caicos for duration of employment.

In addition to the above qualifications, applicants must have strong verbal and written communication skills and be highly organized. Candidates must be able to work well independently and in a team environment, exhibit a positive attitude and an outgoing professional manner.

Salary and benefits will be commensurate with experience.

Qualified candidates should email a CV to tweldon@southcaicos.com on or before January 9, 2014. Inquires will receive a response within 48 hours.

PRICE SLASHED FOR QUICK SALE

PRICE SLASHED $180,000 CASH! $175,000

House and ½ Acre land Richmond Hill 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Fully furnished

Call: 231-3788

December 21 – January 3, 2014

A & G ELECTRICAL Is looking for a

CLASSIFIEDS 45

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

BARBARA VIRGIL

CAICOS PETROLEUM

Is looking for a

DON FULFORD IS LOOKING FOR

Is looking for 4

Is looking for a

pump DOMESTIC electrician WORKER attendant to work 6 days To work 6 days per week salary $8.00 per hour.

contact: 231-4619 9544

To work 5 days per week and on weekends if necessary. Salary $250.00 per week

Please call 231-2972 9557

per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 231-6717

9545

EL RANCHO RESTAURANT & BAR

LABOURER Barmaids TO WORK 6 DAYS A WEEK. SALARY $5.00 PER HOUR

CONTACT: 241-2050

9543

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 344-6532 9558

WARD’S CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients: E Y Contractor, Yoshi Sushi Bar is looking to fill the following positions:

• Seamstress • Dining Room Supervisor • Assistant Manager Salary $8.00 per hour based salary $500.00 per week. Must be willing to work 6 days per week.

Contact: 649-345-7512

9504

REPAIR IT 4 U is looking for a

Computer Tech

To work 5 days per week salary $6.00 per hour contact: 342-4656

9517

Graceway Trading Ltd is a seeking suitably qualified applicant to fill the following positions:

SOLID CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

Construction Manager Must have experience in running a construction company. Must work 6 days per week. Salary based on experience

Send resumes to P.O. Box 627

DOMESTIC

HELPER To do housework and other general cleaning domestic duties. To work 6 days a week including weekends and holiday.

Salary is commensurate with experience.

Contact telephone:

9519

946-5300

9549

JOB OPPORTUNITY DIRECTOR OF ENGINERING

Desired skills and experience:• Advanced degree in Engineering highly desired • Experience in the facilities management of related type properties – 10 years experience in engineering/maintenance highly desired • Proven track record in managing an efficient work force focusing on preventative maintenance of the asset's public areas, guestrooms, and physical plant.

• Experience in organizing, implementing, and maintaining a preventative maintenance tracking system and work order system.

• Experience in coordinating and managing hospitality capital improvement projects, i.e. public areas and guestrooms renovations, FF&E repair and reupholstering, FF&E procurement, site and building maintenance and upgrades.

• Familiar with regulatory compliance issues related but not limited to public access, Parking Control, Habitat Restoration Area monitoring and compliance, • Water Quality Management and Maintenance Plans, Shoreline Protection and related enforcement.

• Experience with negotiations related to code compliance and contract engagement.

• Proven command of the English language, both oral and written.

• Proven ability to take charge and work with minimum supervision.

• Enjoys challenges and situations where solutions are not obvious.

• Able to make decisions in a high stress environment.

• Strong PC skills with an emphasis on Excel and industry R&M systems (online work order systems, etc.). § Ability to implement inventory practices and procedures Qualified Belongers need only to apply Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience Qualified persons can contact:

Veronica CLARE Human Resources Manager , Grace Bay P: 1.649.946.5050 | veronica.clare@gracebayclub.com

Financial Accounting Manager Job Requirements & Responsibilities: • ACA/ACMA/ACCA/CPA professionally qualified with a minimum of 2 years post qualification experience in a financial analysis/financial reporting position.

• Responsible for managing all transactional accounting processes within the Financial Accounting team, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, weekly payroll, cashing-up and sales.

• Managing a team of four bookkeepers, ensuring that job responsibilities are being performed in a complete and timely manner as well as employee performance reviews being undertaken on a regular basis.

• Responsible for reviewing, correcting and posting all journal entries to the general ledger prepared by members of the Financial Accounting team.

• Detailed review and reconciliation of general ledger accounts on a daily basis to ensure accuracy of accounting records.

• Comprehensive knowledge of general ledger accounting and the function of financial accounting systems is essential.

• Implementing and improving accounting processes and procedures to improve team efficiency and drive profitability of the business.

• Weekly reporting of KPIs to senior management and stakeholders.

• Ad-hoc finance related projects as required.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills essential.

• Attention to detail and flexibility to manage multiple tasks.

• Knowledge of SAGE accounting software beneficial.

Finance Analyst Job Requirement & Responsibilities: • ACA/ACMA/CMA/CPA qualified with a minimum of 5 years post qualification experience in a financial analysis position • Management and development of pricing system and processes • Detailed gross margin analysis to identify and correct pricing anomalies • Support Pricing & Logistics Managers maintain the accuracy of company databases, recommend and implement controls to prevent database inaccuracies from occurring • Review and develop freight and duty allocation methodologies to ensure accurate cost allocation to individual products.

• Extensive experience of querying databases using computer programming languages (eg SQL) • Detailed knowledge and practical experience of accounting software (eg SAGE) • Advanced Excel skills essential including the use of pivot tables, VLookup functions and embedded logic formulas • Act as the link between Finance and IT, representing the Finance team at IT Steering Committee meetings • Ad-hoc analysis to support operational decision making, including new product and vendor assessment • Strong written and verbal communication skills • Attention to detail and flexibility to manage multiple tasks Salary for these positions will commensurate with qualifications and experience Deadline for submission of applicants is January 10th 2014 Submit to: Graceway IGA Supermarket main office complex or email: hr@gracwayiga.com Please Note: Only candidates meeting above required qualifications will be contacted Qualified belongers will be given first preference.

9563

46 CLASSIFIEDS

December 21 – January 3, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS SEAVIEW LAUNDROMART & VARIETY STORE IS SEEKING FOR A

Graceway IGA Supermarket / Kwatcha Holdings are seeking suitable qualified applicants to fill the listed positions:-

Wholesale Food LAUNDERER & Sales Manager • Responsible for overall management of product distribution and revenue of sales • Oversee the day to day management of wholesale department personnel to maximize sale productivity • Oversees and manages the Supermarket Food Services wholesale accounts • At least five (5) years Sales or Marketing experience.

• Five (5) years Chef Experience.

• Good knowledge of wholesale foods, liquor, wines and beers.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Competence in the use of Microsoft Word and Excel.

• Good negotiation and interpersonal skills.

• Must have a personal vehicle and a valid Driver’s License.

• Must have pervious managerial experienced working in a supermarket retail environment • Applicant will be required to work weekends and holidays Salary rate will commensurate with qualification and experience Deadline for submission of applicants is January 10th 2013 Submit to:

Graceway IGA Supermarket main office complex or email: hr@gracewayiga.com All short list applicants will be contacted.

CONTACT: 242-0388

2579

RENTAL AGENT Duties include all aspects of customer service, car rental sales and dealing with E-mail correspondence pertaining to car reservations. To work 5 days per week including weekends and holidays. Salary is commensurate with experience.

Contact telephone:

946-5300

9549

Job Requirements & Responsibilities:

TO WORK 5 DAYS PER WEEK. SALARY $5.00/ HOUR.

We are looking for a

Construction Project Manager To manage the “contract to construction” phase. You must have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, bilingual, be able to negotiate, work independently, make sound decisions, lead and influence others, as well as meet deadlines and manage conflict. You will: • Oversee and execute multiple construction projects, contractors, and subcontractors simultaneously.

• Create construction schedule and budget, and ensure budget, project specs, deadlines, material deliveries, and quality assurance are met.

• Provide leadership, training, and accountability for construction staff and ensure a safe working environment is maintained at all times.

• Inspect and examine construction site and field conditions to identify problems, potential problems and as well as identify cost saving measures. Keep all parties informed on issues that could affect the project and propose possible solutions.

• Facilitate conference calls with management, vendors, and others as needed.

• Review, verify and red-line construction blueprints prior to approval and construction.

• Review documents for accuracy and ensure compliance with all governmental and MEP standards.

• Negotiate change orders, ensure proper documentation is in place, and appropriate people are informed of the change.

• Manage and maintain control log, contract documents, drawings, change orders, status reports, etc.

• Provide consistent and detailed communication, both written and verbal, with management and staff, contractors, engineers, consultants, and government officials.

• Continuously evaluate project status to ensure contract agreement is met, identify and facilitate what extra resources are needed to keep project on course.

• Work with others to resolve conflict and construction project related issues.

• Identify and communicate workplace hazards and take corrective action as needed.

• Travel 50-75% domestic travel and on-call 24/7.

Basic Qualifications • Minimum 20 years experience as a construction project manager, preferably working on million dollar projects to include: • Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously • Experience reading blueprints, understanding detailed constructions plans, and bring projects together • Experience with county, building codes and regulations Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

• Certified Construction Manager (CCM) or Professional Project Manager (PMP) preferred.

• CAD and MS Project software experience preferred.

Only qualified T.C.I should submit resume and work portfolio to: Dave Parlee - daveparlee@tciway.tc

Must be willing to work 6 days a week. Salary starts at $5.00 per hour.

Providenciales Telephone: 231 - 4519 Email: daveparlee@tciway.tc

Sky Pilot Parasail Is looking for a

Handy Man To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

Contact number 649-333-3000

Seeks the following:

GENERAL LABOURER NEEDED

To work around yard, washing vehicles and vehicle maintenance. To work 5 days per week including weekends and holidays. Salary is commensurate with experience.

Contact telephone:

9416-5300

9549

J & W Construction Ltd.

LABOURERS, ELECTRICIAN

JESSE EWING

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

J & W CONSTRUCTION LTD

C & J EMPLOYMENT Hereby acting on behalf of our clients: ERB Construction, Sweet T’s Restaurant, V & M Security, Williams Construction

4 laboUrers

Labourer To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 649-245-4750 MAX’S MINI MART

CASHIER

GORDON SUPPLY

2 kitchen helpers

SALES CLERK

2 domestic workers

HOLE IN THE WALL

– $5.00 per hour – $5.00 per hour

– $6-$8 per hour

Mason

– $6-$8 per hour

Security Guard

– $6.00 per hour

Painter

– $5-$7 per hour.

Contact: 649-347-2093

CALASCO Is looking for a

9582

WAITRESS

SALARY MUST COMMENSURATE WITH QUALIFICATION RESUME CAN BE FAXED TO 941-3425 AND THE LABORER DEPARTMENT, PROVIDENCIALES AS SOON AS POSSIBLE

PIZZA PIZZA RESTAURANT MANAGERWANTED URGENTLY

mechanic To work 5 days per week salary. $8.00 per hour.

contact: 231-1489

Summary of duties and responsibilities: Oversee daily restaurant operation from sourcing supplier and supplies, sauce prep, dough mixing, oven control, sales, compliance of governmental rules and regulation and to interface external forces on behalf of the management Technical and professional qualification: Well versed in bank transactions, controls, variance analysis, till, A/R, AP & CC reconciliations and P&L preparation, degree in accounting or finance combined with baking and pastry, ability to read, interpret safety and maintenance manuals or dissemination of staff, PC literacy (MS Office, QuickBooks, Cost Guard, POS) is mandatory Experience minimum of 3 years experience in pizza restaurant operation or flour industry in supervisory capacity, willing to be assigned grave yard time Salary negotiable based on qualifications

Send CV’s to P.O. Box 1053 or contact: 649-339-7331 or 649-941-7331 no later than December 27th, 2013

December 21 – January 3, 2014

NOTICE OF AUCTION SALES TCI BANK LIMITED (in Liquidation) as Chargee, pursuant to the Registered Land Ordinance HEREBY GIVE NOTICE that it will cause to be sold by public auction the scheduled properties at the Bank’s Board Room, F203 Regent Village, Providenciales at 11:00 a.m. on the 8th day of January, 2014.

SCHEDULE

Title Number 60804/65

47

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Section The Bight & Thomas Stubbs

Island Providenciales

The parcel is developed land with an auditorium and an attached restaurant. It is approximately 1.38 acres and it is located in The Bight and Thomas Stubbs area of Providenciales.

WARD’S CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients: E Y Contractor, Yoshi Sushi Bar is looking to fill the following positions:

• Seamstress • Dining Room Supervisor • Assistant Manager Salary $8.00 per hour based salary $500.00 per week. Must be willing to work 6 days per week.

Contact: 649-345-7512

BRUNO FINE ART

Art Specialist at the GTCC

Experience and knowledge in the art field with knowledge in Jewish and International Artist Strong skills in customer service and sales, bi-lingual a plus 649.345.2704, $10 per hour and schedule is every day a cruise ship is in port

9504

The parcel is registered in the name of Hugh Marvin Handfield.

Title Number 60713/302/K4

Section Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill

Island Providenciales

The parcel is a condominium unit located in the Yacht Club and it is approximately 2015 square feet including the porch areas. It is located in the Turtle Cove area of Providenciales.

The unit has three (3) bedrooms, one of which can be lockout, three (3) bathrooms, storage room, kitchen, laundry room, dressing room and a covered balcony.

The parcel is registered in the name of Garin Bescoby.

Title Number 10405/162

Section East Suburbs

Island Grand Turk

The parcel is undeveloped land that is approximately 0.14 acres and it is located within a residential area of Grand Turk.

The parcel is registered in the name of Doreen Coalbrooke.

Title Number 60503/304

Section Blue Hills & Stamers Run

Island Providenciales

The parcel is developed land that is approximately 0.55 acres and it is located in Blue Hills, Providenciales. The building consists of three (3) one-bedroom apartments each comprising covered balcony, kitchen, living, dining area, bedroom and bathroom. The building has a gross floor area of approximately 2,161 square feet plus a front covered balcony of approximately 425 square feet. Additionally, there is a two-bedroom detached house adjacent to the apartment complex.

Title Number 60503/305

Section Blue Hills & Stamers Run

The National Health Insurance Board wishes to advise the public of the Office hours for both Provo and Grand Turk locations.

CHRISTMAS • Tuesday, December 24th (Christmas Eve) - 8:30am-3pm • Wednesday, December 25th (Christmas Day)-Public Holiday • Thursday, December 26th (Boxing Day)-Public Holiday • Friday December 27th TCIG Holiday • Monday, December 30th – Regular office hours will resume at 8:30am NEW YEARS • Tuesday December 31st (New Year’s Eve)- 8:30am-3:00pm • Wednesday, January 1st (New Year’s Day) Public Holiday • Thursday, January 2nd- Regular office hours will resume at 8:30am We apologize for any inconvenience caused due to the changes. Have a blessed and joyous holiday season.

The parcel is registered in the name of Melvin Swann.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Island Providenciales

The parcel is developed land that is approximately 0.55 acres and it is located in Blue Hills, Providenciales. There is a triplex apartment development on the property in addition to a single story structure comprising living room, kitchen, two (2) bedrooms and one (1) bathroom. The building has a gross floor area of approximately 332 square feet.

MANAGEMENT OF THE NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE BOARD

The parcel is registered in the name of Movin Alexander Swann.

Title Number 60900/193

Section Leeward Going Through

Island Providenciales

The parcel is developed land that is approximately 0.49 acres and it is located in the Leeward area, in the established Government subdivision. The lot is a corner lot with approximately 284 linear feet along Hibiscus Lane and Palmwell Drive. The lot is regular in shape even in topography and covered in medium native vegetation.

The parcel is registered in the name of Michelle Stubbs.

Title Number 10302//69

Section` Central

Island Grand Turk

The parcel is developed land that is approximately 0.22 acres and it is located in Overback, Grand Turk. The parcel is located within a residential sub-division.

The building is an incomplete block work structure.

The parcel is registered in the name of Shawn Ingham.

Title Number 60003/75

Section North West & North Central

Island Providenciales

The parcel is developed land that is approximately 0.25 acres and it is located in the North West and North Central area of Providenciales. The parcel is located within a residential sub-division and it is accessed directly from Millennium Highway.

The building is a single storey residential dwelling with three (3) bedrooms, two (2) bathrooms, a kitchen and living/dining area and has a gross floor area of approximately 1200 square feet.

The parcel is registered in the name of Arthur Wesley Hamilton Jr. Full particulars may be secured from The Liquidator, TCI Bank Limited (in Liquidation), F203 Regent Village, Providenciales. Address all enquiries in writing to the Liquidator, TCI Bank Limited, F203 Regent Village, Providenciales for the attention of Mrs. Eunice Sands, Liquidator’s Agent. Mark the envelope “Auction Sales” or otherwise you can contact Mrs. Sands via email: e.sands@kikivarakis.com

Director of Project Management Job responsibilities

Management of the design, renovation and construction for a major luxury resort development in West Caicos including project management of the interior designers and architects, property management improvement, CAPEX planning and budgeting expertise.

Qualifications Required

• Recent experience successfully overseeing large CAPEX projects for 5 or 6 star hotels, delivering on time and on budget • MBA or Masters Qualifications with specialized experience in hotel real estate development, design, and architecture.

• LEED AP Building Design and Construction credentials • A minimum of ten years Project Management Design and Construction experience with major luxury resort developments This position is immediately available. Salary for this position depends on qualifications and experience. All applicants will be reviewed; however only qualified candidates will contacted for an interview.

Applications must be submitted by email or fax by Apex Development Ltd. (Attention: Manager) PO Box 582, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Email: Administration@apexdevelopment.com Fax: 649-941-3395

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Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 – January 3, 2014

Bolt beats bus over 120 metres race

BCB Wahoos have dominated the Tag League again.

Pizza Pizza Mixed Tag League:

Wahoos defend Cup title THE BCB Wahoos will celebrate Christmas knowing that they have emerged victorious in the Pizza Pizza Mixed Tag League.

The dominant side has numerous previous wins under their belt including one in June 2013.

In the Cup final recently, the Wahoos defeated the Talbot Adventure Rays 16-6. In the Plate final the Meridian Marauders edged past the Seals of Doom 8-7 in overtime, while in the Bowl final the BCQS Jolly Ranchers got past Red Mist 12-6.

PRO of the TCIRFU Paul Collis said that the league was another success: “Yet again the mixed Tag League has proved a huge success.

It brings together male, female and youth players and the league is played in a fun environment. Thanks must go to all the club volunteers for making the tournament so popular and of course the main sponsors of the league Pizza Pizza.

It was a fantastic occasion to end a momentous year for the TCIRFU.’

HE’S beaten the best sprinters the world has to offer -- but how would Usain Bolt fare against a Buenos Aires bus?

The six-time Olympic champion from Jamaica is never one to shirk a challenge, even if it means racing something 20 times his size.

But while the bus -- crammed with passengers -- worked through the gears Bolt cruised to victory on 9th of July Avenue in Argentina’s capital.

The stunt was part of a drive to encourage more kids to take up athletics with the 27-year-old also racing against a clutch of fellow sprinters overs 120m.

Bolt told a press conference he hoped to be back in South America for the 2016 Rio Olympics to defend his 100m, 200m and 4x100m relay titles for the second time.

“One of my main goals is to go to the Rio Olympics, as I was

saying, to do it again,” he told reporters.

“To defend my titles and it’s never been done three times so, for me, that’s me trying to set the bar as high as possible. To just push the barrier.”

Bolt, who also holds the 100m and 200m world records, spoke of his first foray into running as part of the drive to boost participation in Argentina “The first race I actually won was when I was 10-years-old,” he explained. “My cricket coach bet me to run at my sportsday -- if won I would get a box lunch and I won.

It was great.”

Bolt’s defeats are few and far between but he revealed the occasional reverse helps to refocus him.

“Losing helps to learn how to motivate myself to learn how to win again,” he said. “Winning is happiness for me.” (CNN)

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The Meridian Marauders won the plate final after a tense battle with the Seals of Doom.

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Josh for Sports

2013 analytical report card FOR the past eight years, I’ve been most humbled to have had the privilege to address you, my loyal column readers on relevant national sporting issues as they have affected our country, via the pages of this most esteemed newspaper—the Weekly News.

Once again, I would like to sincerely thank the editor/ publisher Mr. Blythe Duncanson for affording me the privilege and opportunity in my endeavours to help promote my country throughout the region and world in an effort to garner national pride, respect and recognition.

REPORT CARD As you might be aware, at the end of each year it is customary for an annual review to be done on the progress and none progress of things.

I, arbitrarily, take it upon myself to publish my report card.

I shall grade these sports on

in the region where governments have been less dedicated or committed to the cause of national sports in their countries than in the TCI.

By Joshua Gardiner the standard of A (87-100%), B (7886%), C (65-77%) and D (55-64%) and F (fail).

Let’s start with the misses in sports: THE GOVERNMENT= F In my personal opinion the government has fail this country miserably as far as their non-serious contribution to the development of national sports goes.

To my knowledge there is no place

TCAAA=FNot once this year has the TCAAA staged a national athletic competition. In my opinion, they all need to resign.

In terms of athletes there have been two way above par individuals in the persons of Delano Williams and Kivarno Handfield.

Williams reportedly signed a $5M deal with Nike and don’t need this government or the TCAAA. Kivarno Handfield, now a student at Lincoln University has high jumped 7 feet three inches (2.23 metres) in practice and I predict that he, within two years’ time will break the world record. He is 20.

SWIMMING= F There is no national effort to teach and popularise swimming.

Sailing= F After a most innovative start, some two years past, sailing has died.

Roller Hockey = C+ Roller Hockey needs to invite the schools to watch their games.

GOLF =C+ Golf is a privileged game. Even though the association has given free lessons to the youths, they can do more to popularise this game.

BASKETBALL= B Basketball has come a long way.

We now have girls’ basketball and the school league has exploded like wild fire. I applaud the efforts of the executives—well done.

Cricket= B It’s about time that Pastor Sterling and crew take the future of the game to the kids and they have.

FOOTBALL = A Football has come a mighty long

way. The national association does this country proud.

THE CROWNING GLORY The females are starring. Sonia Bien Aime has made her mark.

Now we have Angel Campbell, who as a native born teenager has been shortlisted to represent the USA in the next World Cup. Furthermore football has become the most popular sports in the TCI. Congratulations.

Rugby = A+ I am most proud of the TCI Rugby Football Union for their most productive/aggressive programmes that have taken us to a junior Caribbean award. They now need more youths to come out.

That’s all for the rest of the year from me. I wish you all a merry Christmas and a prosperous 2014.

Love always Josh

December 21 – January 3, 2014

Sports National

Some of the players receiving their medals.

Women’s Speed Soccer League:

Trailblazers FC win inaugural title THE Trailblazers FC have won the inaugural title of the Women’s Speed Soccer League after finishing with a better goal difference than main rivals CIBC Cats.

When the curtains came down on the new competition at the TCIFA Academy ground, the Trailblazers had amassed 18 points with a goal difference of +8 while the Cats had tallied 18 points with a goal difference of +5.

The Revolution FC finished third with 14 points while Earthbenders AFC placed fourth with 11 points and Blow Pops fifth with 10 points. The young U-12 Trailblazers FC were sixth with three points while the Palmiss finished at the bottom without a point.

INDIVIDUAL AWARDS Following the final round of matches the individual awards were given out. The Top Goal Scorer’s award went to Monae Gooden; the Senior MVP award was won by A. Rosima; the Junior MVP was presented to Anika Sidden; and the Player of the Season award was won by Trincy Reid. Fun awards were also given at the ceremony. These went to Gerline Azemard for Craziest Socks; Most Elegant Player went to Brittany Bien-Aime, with Jancilla Cox was awarded for being Motivator of the Season.

Melissa Jean Guy and Christma Jean Louis were selected as consistent players of the season; however, in an oversight, they were not presented their awards at that time.

Inter-High School Basketball Tournament fiasco:

Championship clash to resume without general public SOME spectators of last Saturday’s Inter-High School Basketball Tournament behaved so unruly that officials were forced to stop the championship game between rivals Majorie Basden Knights and Clement Howell Eagles.

“For the safety of both players and supporters, it was decided to stop the game in the third quarter.

We understand the disappointment of many, especially the players and their coaches, but we were not willing to place the safety of our children at risk,” a release from the officials stated.

After a meeting during the week between the Department of Sports in conjunction with the TCI Secondary Schools Sports Association and the TCI Basketball Federation it was decided that the championship game, which was stopped in the third quarter, will resume at a date yet to be agreed upon. Whenever the game is played, it will not be open to the general public.

CONTROL EMOTIONS The release went on to chide

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

the disorderly spectators and reminded them that as adults they are expected to set good examples for youngsters.

“We want to encourage the adults attending any sporting event to control their emotions and behaviour, and set a high standard that our children can follow.”

The release stated that improving the organisation of sports competitions for the young people in the TCI will be high on the priority of the TCI Secondary Schools Sports Association.

The basketball players on the other hand came in for praises from the officials.

“We want to express our sincere thanks to the participating schools and commend all the student athletes for their excellent conduct during the games, especially the two teams competing in the finals. We have seen great talent and a high level of sportsmanship among all teams and it is important to highlight this positive factor as we go forward.”

Billy Forbes has been his university’s most outstanding footballer.

Forbes claims NSCAA All-America accolades – Invited to US Soccer League Combined in January SENIOR national player Billy Forbes is making waves in the USA where he is attending university.

The 22 year-old was recently invited to the United Stated Soccer League Combined for sessions in January while his outstanding season at the Lubbock Christian University also earned him second team honours on the NSCAA Division II AllAmerican Teams.

Forbes, a psychology major,

became the first player in his university’s history to claim NAIA All-America honours in 2011 and has now become the first male athlete to receive NSCAA All-America accolades.

OUTSTANDING SEASON In the entire Heartland Conference (An NCAA Division II conference of public and private institutions in the Midwest and Texas), Forbes

(forward/midfielder) scored 41 points (2.4 points per game) and 17 goals (one per week).

He also ranked second in shots (82), shots per game (4.8), while he was tied for second in game winning goals (4), tied for third in assists (7) and fourth in assists per game (0.41).

LCU finished the season 115-1 with a conference best 8-1-0 conference mark.

Qualified and experienced Harrington named as new TCIFA Technical Director THE Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) has confirmed the appointment of Craig Harrington as its new Technical Director.

Harrington, a native of Hillingdon, England, is a former youth player at Swindon Town and Oxford United.

He spent three seasons (2010-2013) coaching at the premier Major League Soccer club, LA Galaxy.

Craig assisted Academy and Club President Chris Klein with the development and growth of all the Galaxy Academy programmes. As head coach of the U-16 LA Galaxy Academy Team, Harrington led his squad to the 2011-12 USSDA SoCal Division Championship as well as having four players called up to the U-15 US National Team and eight players called up to the U-17 US National Team. What is more, Harrington was also a part of the club’s staff that won consecutive MLS Championships in 2011 and 2012.

WELL QUALIFIED Prior to joining the Galaxy in 2010, Harrington spent six years as Director of Coaching at the Newport Mesa Club and as Technical Director at the Tustin Premier Soccer Club. He also worked two years as coach at Santiago Community College. Harrington, who moved on to coaching after concluding his professional playing career, holds a U.S. Soccer Federation “A” coaching license (the highest such license awarded by the US Soccer

professional level in North America and has good contacts with semi pro clubs as well as colleges throughout the United States and Europe. It is a reflection on the way we operate as an Association that we can attract such outstanding candidates as Craig. We look forward to continuing progression in youth player development as well as increasing the competitiveness of our national teams during his tenure.”

Craig Harrington who holds a U.S. Soccer Federation “A” coaching license (the highest such license awarded by the US Soccer Federation), also has overall experience and contacts.

Federation). Additionally, he is also the holder of a Bachelor’s Degree (2001) from the University of Kent.

THE BEST POSSIBLE CANDIDATE Of the appointment, Chris Bryan, President of the TCIFA said: “We very much look forward to welcoming Craig Harrington as the new Technical Director of the Football Association. We have been very thorough in our recruitment process and have been successful in attracting a high calibre individual with excellent coaching credentials.

Craig has been involved in the development of the game at the

‘SPECTACULAR’ Sonia Bien-Aime, Secretary General for the TCIFA seconded the President’s sentiments, adding that 2014 looks to be “spectacular” for the Association. She said: “Craig’s background, qualifications and overall experiences and contacts will no doubt be of great benefit to the TCIFA as we look to improving our product. 2014 promises to be a spectacular year for the TCIFA, partnering with the CFU, CONCACAF and FIFA to introduce new and existing opportunities to the Football Association. I welcome with excitement the recruitment of Craig Harrington as the new Technical Director.”

This upcoming year is anticipated to be an extremely busy and productive year for the TCIFA with planned workshops, a myriad of football related courses, international and regional competitions and the TCIFA is excited and optimistic in the role Mr. Harrington will play in bringing these projects to fruition.

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Happy Holidays

December 21 – January 3, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

One of the real joys of the Holiday Season is the opportunity to say Thank You and to wish you the very best for the New Year.

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December 21 – January 3, 2014

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 21 – January 3, 2014