Turks & Caicos Weekly News Issue 50

Weekly News Volume 24 | No. 50 | December 22 - January 8, 2011

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Turks and Caicos

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Police chiefs to exit force Canadian cops will replace Commissioner and Deputy in March inside

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White Christmas nightmare for travellers CHRISTMAS travel plans were thrown into chaos by adverse weather conditions in Britain.

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Timber tycoon accused of tax evasion

BILLIONAIRE timber tycoon Tim Blixseth is at the centre of TCI investigations ...

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Work ahead for

Millennium

Highway MOTORISTS long plagued by gaping potholes along a major Providenciales highway ...

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Weekly News winners!!

See inside for our

Aspiring artists show off their winning entries in this year’s Weekly News Christmas card competition. Winners were Emilio Rias, 8, Kelsea Mohnssen, 8, Daisy Mullins, 4, Isabelle Philips, 8, Malachi Malcolm, 8, and Kaidan Bobb, 4.

Christmas Special Supplement

Look out for our next edition on January 8 and find out who has been named Weekly News Person of the Year.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 22 - January 8, 2011

December 22 - January 8, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 22 - January 8, 2011

NATIONAL

White Christmas nightmare for travellers

By Paul Baker CHRISTMAS travel plans were thrown into chaos by adverse weather conditions in Britain.

Heavy snow over the weekend saw a number of the country’s major airports close, including Heathrow.

The knock-on effect was felt here in the TCI where scores of Islanders were stranded by the postponement of Sunday’s weekly British Airways flight from Provo to London.

The cancellation also left TCIbound visitors stuck in England and in danger of not making it to the Caribbean in time for the festivities.

One passenger unable to leave Provo on Sunday told the Weekly News: “It’s heart-breaking and there are lots of us in the same position.

“People have missed connecting flights from Heathrow and it’s completely ruined some people’s Christmases.

“It’s unlikely British Airways will put on another flight to Provo and it looks like most flights out of here are booked. Of all the weeks for this to happen it’s the week before Christmas.”

She added: “I’ve got a chance because I’m just going to Heathrow.

But for those who were using Heathrow as a connecting stop it

looks hopeless.”

As desperate travellers looked for flights out of Provo, others were frantically trying to find a way into the TCI. Alan Clark was one of many expecting to meet family or friends off the BA flight.

He explained: “My brother, sisterin-law and their kids were due in to spend Christmas with us but they are trapped at Heathrow.

“I have spoken to them on the phone and it appears to be a desperate situation with very little information about whether they are likely to get here. It’s a real shame and very upsetting.”

Thousands stayed at Heathrow overnight on Saturday, with no planes departing and only three arriving on Sunday – more than 210,000 people were due to fly.

Heathrow operator BAA said further cancellations and delays would be inevitable into the middle of this week.

It added that beyond Monday there would be continued problems “as airlines move diverted aircraft and crew back to their normal positions”.

Meanwhile, those lucky enough to have made it to England over the weekend endured journeys from hell.

Interhealth Canada facilities

Flights from the TCI are among those cancelled due to heavy snow in London.

director, Fiona McDonnell, had been due to fly from Provo to Miami, then to Heathrow and on to Manchester – a journey of about 15 hours in total.

Having left TCI on time at 3pm on Friday, it all went wrong from there.

Fiona explained: “Our flight from Miami was cancelled due to the snow at Heathrow. We were then sent up to New York where we got a flight to Heathrow.

“We circled Heathrow for two hours

and were then diverted to Dublin where we sat on the runway for five hours!

We had to stay in Ireland for the night and eventually we got to Manchester at 3pm Provo time on Sunday – some 48 hours later!”

Timber tycoon accused of tax evasion

By Gemma Handy BILLIONAIRE timber tycoon Tim Blixseth is at the centre of investigations as civil recovery lawyers turn up the heat on tax evaders.

Attorneys tasked with returning millions to plundered TCI coffers are demanding almost $9m in unpaid stamp duty and ensuing penalties for Blixseth’s Chalk Sound property.

The sprawling nine-bedroom estate – set on a private island accessed by a drawbridge – is something of a local landmark.

The self-made mogul is accused of conspiring with three other defendants to defraud the Government of a colossal $1,755,000.

They are said to have plotted to avoid paying stamp duty owed when the estate was sold in August 2006.

Emerald Cay Ltd originally bought the property from Worldwide Commercial Properties for $28m, meaning $2,730,000 in duty should have been paid to the Government.

Instead the sale was recorded

Self-made mogul Tim Blixseth is jointly accused of conspiring to defraud the Government.

on land documents as just $10m so Emerald Cay Ltd only paid $975,000.

Court papers declare both firms jointly liable for the outstanding $1,755,000 plus a fine of four times the stamp duty, equating to $7,020,000.

The fourth defendant is Blixseth’s colleague Andrew Hawes. All four

Published by Turks & Caicos News Company Ltd. Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales P.O. Box 52, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI W. Blythe Duncanson – Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Gemma Handy – Associate Editor Rebecca Bird – News Editor Faizool Deo – Sports Samantha Dash – Court Cord Garrido-Lowe – Graphics/Production Editor Dilletha Lightbourne-Williams – Office Manager Email: (Advertising) tcnews@tciway.tc, (News) tcweeklynews@yahoo.com, (Talk Back) tcweeklynews@gmail.com Tel. 649-946-4664 (office), 649-232-3508 (after hours) Website address: www.tcweeklynews.com

parties are being sued for total damages of $8,775,000 plus interest and costs.

They now have the option of coughing up the cash or contesting the proceedings.

It is the latest case launched by the civil recovery team which started its work in the Islands at the end of 2009.

It follows proceedings against Salt Cay and Joe Grant Cay developers who are accused of greasing the palms of former Government Ministers in return for favours.

And in September a case was also filed against Middle Caicos pilot Richardson Arthur amid allegations of a land flip deal.

The Chalk Sound lawsuit is the first regarding the avoidance of stamp duty.

A statement from the Governor’s office revealed that a “substantial number” of active recoveries is now underway with additional proceedings expected to be brought shortly.

Oregon-born Blixseth, 60, put his luxury mansion on the market in June last year with a $75m price tag.

After buying the island halffinished three years earlier, he originally planned on using it as part of his Yellowstone luxury residence club which later filed for bankruptcy.

The 30,000-square foot house boasts a ‘floating’ tennis court, gym, guest house, man-made beach

The sprawling estate boasts a magnificent interior.

and several docks to accommodate Blixseth’s collection of private yachts. It is still for sale on the open market at the reduced price of $48m.

Listed as one of the richest people in the US, Blixseth is the founder of ‘Yellowstone Club World’ – an elite club for the super-wealthy which

Billionaire Blixseth’s sprawling property is a Chalk Sound landmark.

includes Microsoft billionaire Bill Gates in its membership.

Blixseth lost much of his wealth when the real estate market crashed forcing him to put the palatial Provo villa up for sale.

He is said to have a net worth of $1.3bn which includes several vast properties across the globe.

December 22 - January 8, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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NATIONAL

Police chiefs to exit force Canadian cops will replace Commissioner and Deputy in March

By Gemma Handy TCI’s two top brass police are to be replaced by high ranking Canadian cops, the Governor has announced.

Commissioner Edward Hall and his deputy Hubert Hughes will leave the force in March to make way for a duo of senior Canadian “experts”.

Their exit is slated as being in line with the standard public service retirement age of 55.

Mr Hall told the Weekly News he had been due to retire but declined to say when or comment further.

The Commissioner – brother to corruption-accused former Minister Jeffrey Hall – has been plagued by contention during his years in the position.

Crime soared under his watch with problems exacerbated further by a dismal detection rate.

Mr Hughes, who turns 55 in May, also said he had been anticipating leaving the force but would not be making a formal statement prior to his departure.

The news comes days after the Governor met with

Canadian authorities in Ottawa. With the TCI a prime holiday destination for chilly Canucks, it’s in Canada’s interest to protect the safety of its citizens.

Gordon Wetherell said the new head honchos would start a two-year contract in March.

He said the Commissioner and Deputy were among four police chiefs due to imminently retire or move on.

Also approaching retirement age is Sherman Clarke, assistant commissioner of management services with an oversight role in the marine branch.

And assistant commissioner of operations Dave Ryder is set to leave the TCI next year when his contract comes to an end.

The Governor said discussions with the Canadian Government had focused on filling “crucial” positions.

Fifty-five is the set retirement age for the public service although the Governor has the option of inviting people to stay on longer.

Some of those shortly to leave are also said to have

Commissioner of Police Edward Hall said he had been due to retire shortly.

Deputy Commissioner Hubert Hughes turns 55 in May.

accumulated vacation time which the cash-strapped Government has limited funds to pay.

The Governor said the new appointments would enable “necessary reforms” to be taken forward.

“It will also provide the time necessary for officers to gain the further experience and training they need to succeed to command positions.”

He continued: “I am very grateful to Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) and its Anti-Crime Capacity Building Programme for this generous offer which will ensure a managed succession for two of the most important posts responsible for the safety and security of the Turks and Caicos Islands

is committed to working collaboratively throughout the Americas to establish a safer and more prosperous hemisphere.

“This important initiative shows we can achieve effective results by working with our regional partners to advance our shared objectives.”

In December last year we revealed that a review by a British team into police operations, management and efficiency was expected to prompt a major overhaul.

The ensuing report was said to have cast scathing aspersions on the force, long beset by low morale and poor pay. The fact that the report has never been made public is a subject of controversy in itself.

Earlier this month we reported that talks were

and all who live here.”

Mr Wetherell thanked Mr Hall and Mr Hughes for their years of “distinguished service”.

“I look forward to a smooth transition and to announcing details of the new Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner in due course,” he added.

Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Peter Kent said the postings would help strengthen security in the Americas.

“This project demonstrates Canada’s commitment to addressing security challenges in our neighbourhood,” he said in a statement released on Friday.

“Every investment Canada makes in the region helps to enhance security at home.”

Mr Kent added: “Canada

underway with Canada about posting a number of officers in the Islands.

The news was welcomed

by British MP and chair of the TCI All Party Parliamentary Group, Andrew Rosindell.

But Mr Rosindell, who has been urging the UK to stump up funds for its beleaguered territory since visiting the country in August, also said he felt the TCI’s crime problem was Britain’s responsibility, not Canada’s.

In November, a quartet of British police arrived to help solve several undetected murders and armed robberies.

Their deployment followed June’s arrival of four UK specialists which included a fingerprinting expert, a senior detective, an analyst and a community policing expert.

Work ahead for Millennium Highway MOTORISTS long plagued by gaping potholes along a major Providenciales highway will have to wait several more months before resurfacing will go ahead.

But the Government said it is “aware” of the problems affecting Millennium Highway – the main thoroughfare to densely populated Blue Hills and Wheeland – and has named it the “highest priority”.

Drivers forced to traverse the road on a regular basis are all too familiar with the vast craters which line one long stretch.

Recent bad weather has made some sections almost impassable with vehicles swerving across the road to avoid the largest holes.

One resident said: “Cars are literally forced off the highway to pass through some sections.

It’s an accident waiting to happen.

“The fact that the road has been left in such a bad state when it is the main route to what is arguably now the most densely populated area in the country is a disgrace.

“Another danger is that is forcing vehicles to take the beach road to Wheeland instead which runs directly through a residential area with two schools.”

A spokesman for the Government told the Weekly News that an increase in traffic and heavy rains had resulted

in a considerable amount of damage to the road’s surface.

“This is exacerbated by the increase in development along the highway, much of which does not include adequate provision for drainage.”

He said bitumen for temporary repairs had been ordered some time ago from overseas but had failed to arrive.

In the meantime, bitumen

was sent from Grand Turk which enabled some of the larger potholes to be filled in last week.

The spokesman said the road was in need of “considerable work” including proper resurfacing and drainage improvements.

“A schedule of road improvement projects has been prepared and the Millennium

Wear and tear has made some parts of the road impassable.

Highway is of the highest priority.

“Work should commence on this schedule towards the

middle of 2011. In the meantime temporary repairs will continue to be effected as required.”

He added: “Drivers are

urged to take care and caution when driving on this section of the road, especially in times of heavy rain.”

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OPENS MONDAY-FRIDAY 8AM-6PM. SATURDAY 8AM-1PM The CLINIC AND PHARMACY ARE OPEN ON BANK HOLIDAY MORNINGS DEC 27TH (MONDAY) & 28TH (TUESDAY) AND January 3rd (MONDAY)

Happy Holidays!!!

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 22 - January 8, 2011

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

Retrospective glance AS THE year draws to a close, we asked readers for their thoughts on what events of 2010 were the most memorable for them – and what they would like to see happen in 2011.

Bank fall

“These serious points stand out in 2010. The closing of the TCI Bank with the loss of the funds of 4,000 families plus the loss of millions in pension funds.

“This need a complete investigation by the Attorney General, the Financial Crime Unit of the police force, Helen Garlick and a special prosecutor.

“We need a report from Helen Garlick on the specifics of her investigation. We are approaching two years after the Commission of Inquiry removed the Government for corruption and we have yet to see one needed prosecution.

“The interim Government has continued the mismanagement of the Misick years with all new development projects closing down, the health care mess getting bigger and a mismanaged civil service left alone.

“They are busy doing little to correct the gross injustice that pervaded this territory under Britain’s nose for six long years.

“We are fast slipping financially backwards that soon someone will have to pump air to

us.

“Independence is now an option due to the massive debt and obligations left by the Misick team.

“How about joining up with the USA? We are thousands of miles closer than Guam which already uses the American dollar, have less crime than the American Virgin Islands and have long ago accepted the American ethics.

“A Misick could never have prospered in the USA without being punished. What is wrong with mother Britain?”

Wild west

“What stood out most for me was the increase in robberies committed in broad daylight.

“I really don’t know what to say about how to curb it.

“Some persons just don’t want to earn an honest living. Come on, what can you do with Rolex watches unless you smuggle them out on a boat or have a partner at the airport security to let you pass through with it because for sure you can’t wear it here – dahhhhhh!

Hospitals help boost visitor numbers TOURIST numbers are being boosted by the new hospitals.

That’s the verdict of Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association CEO, Caesar Campbell.

He said visitors are traveling to the Islands with a “new found confidence” thanks to the state of the art medical facilities in Provo and Grand Turk.

He explained: “As a tourist destination, one of our focuses is to ensure that all who visit our shores have access to the best healthcare, if needed.

“Medical services in the TCI have evolved tremendously in recent years with the construction of two state of the art medical centres, currently being managed

by Interhealth Canada, a reputable global healthcare medical firm.

“Interhealth’s management team is made up of over 50 years of combined experience in the medical field and they remain committed to staff development and patient satisfaction.”

He added: “We would like those persons who choose TCI as their vacation destination to travel without worrying about the availability of first class medical services - we in the TCI have that covered.”

Despite the hospitals being designed to improve the level of secondary care health services, Interhealth Canada CEO, Roger Cheesman, said he is acutely aware the TCI is heavily dependent on tourism.

He added: “The income from holiday makers and those who maintain properties on islands for

longer periods of residence, form a mainstay of the country’s income.

“It is therefore important that these periodic and seasonal visitors are also aware that, should they have any health issues while in the TCI, there is a team of well-skilled medical and clinical staff available to support them and with excellent facilities at their disposal.

“Interhealth Canada recognises that there are times when island guests have specific need of healthcare and it is important that the tourism bodies make the presence of the hospitals in Grand Turk and Providenciales known.”

He added: “It’s one of the prime reasons Interhealth Canada has become a member of the Hotel and Tourism Association.”

Meanwhile on the beach at Grace Bay it wasn’t hard to find visitors who knew all about the new hospitals.

Mark Recornas, from Los Angeles, said he checked out the country’s medical facilities before booking his TCI holiday.

“It’s the first thing I did,” added Mark. “I have a wife and young children and you need to know you are in good hands medically wherever you chose to go on vacation.

“Interhealth Canada are a huge name in medical services and so I had no hesitation in coming to the TCI.” And fellow American, Sandy Gibbs, said: “My youngest child suffers from asthma and if Provo didn’t have an excellent medical service, we wouldn’t be here.”

“Anyway this needs to stop. These individuals are trying to turn our ‘beautiful by nature’ country into a cowboy town.

“All I have to say to these gunmen is ‘park ya guns bad boy, dun away with the crime spree’.”

Market TCI

“I can only say one memorable theme throughout 2010 – how devastatingly quiet the island has been and everyone’s excitement, optimism and motivation has gone completely.

“Recommendations for 2011? I wish for some progress of any kind to give people a reason for getting up in the morning.

“Let’s start by putting TCI back on the map for tourists by advertising what a great affordable place it is to come to for a vacation or to buy a home.

“The airlines don’t seem interested though with the BA’s announcement of pricing ourselves out of the market even more and I see no marketing of the Islands by airlines.

“We should be cashing in on the American market which has turned away from Mexico due to the crime and abduction of tourists.

“Canadians are wanting to escape the cold and aren’t feeling the recession like others.

“Europe? A waste of time in my opinion.

They have too many other cheaper places to explore in the Caribbean and they are marketed successfully by airlines and tour operators.

“Property prices here are still unrealistic and need to reduce. Investors with skills, money and work place/business experience need to put this country back on its feet and be

welcomed in to do it.

“And by the way, how about recouping any missing money from the public purse and making those responsible for this mess accountable? A bit late now I guess.

“I fear people are going to be hurting far more next year than 2010 and it will take an attitude of communal caring, hard work for the common good and ‘all in this together’ to survive it.

“Sadly, I see no evidence of that ingrained in this society. It is in the lap of the gods.

“Thanks to the Weekly News team for pumping out such a lot of quality news over the year. We appreciate all your long hours of hard work.”

Mixed bag

“On the positive side, the repair of the dock on Salt Cay; finally a reality after decades of talk and promises.

“Negatively, the refusal of NIB, NHIP executives to meet with the consultative forum – not a good reflection of accountability in high places.”

 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

COMMENTARY

Side by side I COULD not help but notice that fellow contributors to the TCI Weekly News, John Harley and Euwonka Selver, displayed their creative talents last week with poetic presentations for the holidays.

Not being as creative as these fine people we still want to provoke thought looking back and hopefully looking forward.

So let me reach back to a time before my time and provide some lyrics written to a popular song of the 20th century depression era that applies to our situation today.

We must all reach out and work together and, in the spirit of Christmas and the challenges of the New Year, try to assist each other where possible: We don’t have a barrel of money Maybe we’re ragged and funny but we’re travelling along singing our song side by side.

We don’t know what’s coming tomorrow maybe it’s trouble and sorrow but we’ll travel the road sharing the load side by side.

By David Tapfer Through all kinds of weather maybe the sky will fall but as long as we’re together it doesn’t matter at all.

We’ve all had our quarrels and parted now we’re the same as we started yes, travelling along singing our song side by side.

May we all reach out this year to temper the needs of those who, through no fault of their own, are hurting.

I pray that the Turks and Caicos Islands find the bottom of this difficult time and begin the long climb back up to eventually achieve its true potential.

The time of healing cannot

begin until justice is done and closure is reached.

The never ending delays in achieving justice and correction of mistakes is what is tearing down this tiny nation.

The ball has been in the hands of Britain since HE Wetherell arrived here two and a half years ago. It is clear that the Munn/Bryant FCO had his shoelaces tied.

Now it’s a new game with Minister Bellingham as coach and MP Rosindell acting as referee.

Hearing that the team will now include local players lends hope. We must provide strong consultation and not inane confrontation. Brain storming takes brains and must be done with honest concern.

Unfortunately that may leave some aspiring players out.

Hard times are unnecessarily here and it is time now to help each other where we can.

As we now traverse another pleasant holiday season celebrating the birth of Jesus and the bringing of another New Year may we hold hands and share the loads and go down the road of the new year, side by side.

December 22 - January 8, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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& CrimeCourt

NIB gets tough at Christmas THREE persons appeared in Providenciales Magistrates Court last week for failing to pay their NIB contributions and two of them were threatened with jail time.

On December 16, Chief Magistrate Joan Joyner ordered Tracey Ann EwingHurdle, of Tucker’s Hill Nursery, to pay up or face 30 days’ imprisonment.

The court heard that during the period November 2008 to June 2010, Hurdle failed to pay a total of $85,207.35.

The accused faced 16 counts of failing to pay contributions, 14 additional charges of failing to pay as an employer and additional charges of failing to pay as a self-employed person.

She pleaded guilty to all the charges and was ordered to pay the amount of $1,500

by December 30 on each complaint.

Magistrate Joyner also ordered the woman to pay the amount of $2,500 per month commencing on January 30 2011 and every month thereafter until the full amount is extinguished.

Hayden Boyce, publisher of the Sun newspaper, also appeared before Magistrate Joyner, and was threatened with an immediate 30-day imprisonment if he continued to neglect his NIB payments.

Boyce was given until January 17 2011 to pay the full amount of $24,000 or a warrant for his immediate committal to prison will be executed the following day without delay.

This came after Boyce was given several chances to pay off his arrears but failed to do so.

It was said that during the period November 2005 to April 2009, Boyce failed to pay contributions and additional charges as an employer and a self-employed person.

Attorney Clayton Green represented the publisher in the matter and requested a further adjournment.

The matter was adjourned until January 17 2011 pending settlement.

On December 13, Rhynie Campbell, director of Rounder’s Ltd, appeared before Magistrate Clifton Warner for failing to pay contributions and additional charges for the period June 2009 to July2009.

It was said that Campbell owed NIB a total of $2,731.60 for this period.

He was represented by defence attorney Ashwood Forbes who requested a further adjournment.

Magistrate Warner granted the adjournment until February 10 2011 during which time Campbell is expected to pay off the debt.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 22 - January 8, 2011

WITH Samantha Dash

Haitian man remanded Man on continued after violent cutlass attack remand while his CHIEF Magistrate Joan became intense and an accomplice remains at large Joyner remanded a Haitian argument erupted between the man to prison on Friday after he allegedly chopped three fingers off a man’s hand.

Jose Almonor, aged 22, appeared in Providenciales Magistrates Court charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm.

The allegations are that on June 25 2010 at the Bight, Providenciales, another Haitian national named Eddryss Palixpe teased the accused over a matter.

The situation quickly

two men.

Palixpe, who felt Almonor was going to attack him, attempted to pick up a piece of steel to defend himself.

It was then that Almonor reached for a cutlass and swung it at Palixpe severing three of the fingers on his right hand.

Magistrate Joyner refused Almonor bail and ordered him to attend court on January 11 2011 for a preliminary inquiry.

Alleged Faltinto’s Variety Store bandit refused bail THE YOUNG man who was shot four times after an alleged daylight robbery was committed to stand trial in Grand Turk Supreme Court early next year.

George Munroe, who was 19 years old at the time, faced a preliminary inquiry for 10 charges.

They include attempted murder, robbery, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, two counts of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear, two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, possession of a firearm with intent to commit a serious offence, possession of ammunition with intent to enable endangerment of life and unlawful possession of explosives.

After the inquiry, the

Magistrate found that there was sufficient evidence against Munroe and committed the young man to a trial by judge and jury.

It was said that on Saturday August 28, at the B&F Variety Store and Liquors, popularly known as ‘Faltinto’s’, a masked and armed Munroe robbed the store and made off with fistfuls of cash.

Once outside the store, he then attempted to car-jack a vehicle with two young children, exchanging gunfire with their father.

It was during this altercation, that Munroe sustained gunshot wounds about the upper body and was hospitalised for his injuries.

Munroe, Bahamian born, was denied bail and will remain in custody until February 20 when he is due back in court.

HAITIAN national Jean Joseph has been on remand since his arrest in August 2009 for the possession of controlled drugs with intent to supply but his alleged accomplice is still at large.

Joseph is to reappear in Providenciales Magistrates Court in January 2011 when his part-heard trial is scheduled to continue.

The Crown is alleging that on August 12 2009, over

39 pounds of marijuana was found in Joseph’s home in Five Cays, Providenciales.

However, his alleged accomplice Michael Fraser, a Bahamian national, is yet to be apprehended despite a posted ‘wanted’ bulletin.

It was said that Fraser left his passport and other personal documentation in the home where the drugs were said to be found.

Gun-toting man escapes strict gun penalty JUST one month after he was freed of illegal gun charges, Michael Dudley Williams was charged and jailed for yet another illegal gun possession allegation.

Williams, aged 42, appeared before Magistrate Clifton Warner in Providenciales Magistrates Court last Tuesday for possession of an unlicensed firearm on December 10.

In what was set to be a landmark case, Williams was the first person to be charged since new stringent laws came into effect which mandate a minimum five years’ imprisonment for illegal gun possession.

However, he was not penalised as such even though he allegedly committed the offence after it took effect on December 1.

It was said that because the court had not been officially notified by the authorities of the amendment, the Magistrate

Michael Williams

could not impose the upgraded penalty.

Williams admitted the offence and was sentenced to six months in jail.

Police warn of upsurge in forged checks POLICE officials recently issued a warning to the general public to be on the look-out for persons attempting to exchange forged cheques for cash or using them as a form of payment.

This warning came last week after at least one business place turned in a forged cheque

to the police.

Police sources refused to release the amount of the cheque and who it was made out to but warned businesses and the public to be careful.

“The R.T&C.I.P.F ask business owners and the public in general to ascertain the authorisation of any

cheque before completing that cheque transaction," police spokesman Sgt Calvin Chase said.

Although no arrests have been made as yet, Sgt. Chase said that several persons were questioned and released and police investigations are ongoing.

Trained and ready to fight crime

TCI police force gets reinforcements FOURTEEN males and one female made up the third batch of recruits to graduate from the newly re-opened TCI Police Training School located on Old

Airport Road in Grand Turk.

The new officers were honoured at a passing out parade on December 17 near the training school grounds in Grand Turk.

Mr. Ellison Greenslade, Commissioner of Police of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, delivered the keynote address.

December 22 - January 8, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

9

NATIONAL

Increased threat of cholera in TCI in the troubled nation.

As the TCI Government continues its efforts to prevent its entry into the Islands, two international agencies have begun assisting in support.

The Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) and the UK’s Department for International

Development (DFID) have sent a team of experienced personnel to work along with local officials in the TCI. The effort will also see a network of experts put in place to be on call to offer advice.

They will work under the direction of Chief Medical

Officer Dr Rufus Ewing to help produce a comprehensive contingency plan.

Horatio Tuitt, of the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies who has been appointed to lead the effort, said: “This consultancy is being given the

highest priority because of the imminent threat to the Islands and the potential impact this may have on the already fragile TCI economy.

“The alert level for the TCI has increased because the disease has now spread to all districts in Haiti and is on

Cement

$8.75

(per bag)

TCI authorities are bracing themselves for a cholera outbreak as the threat to the Islands from neighbouring Haiti is considered higher than ever.

The disease has already killed more than 2,000 people and sickened almost 100,000

the increase in the Dominican Republic.

“The close proximity of the TCI to these affected countries coupled with travel and trade links increases our vulnerability.

“We are involving all departments of government for a multi-agency approach to the development of this pan which we are aiming to deliver before Christmas.”

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 22 - January 8, 2011

December 22 - January 8, 2011

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 22 - January 8, 2011

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

Reply to Clayton Greene A big thank you Dear Mr Greene, I read with interest your letter entitled ‘Election date no clearer’ in a recent issue of the Turks and Caicos Weekly News, and am very surprised at some of the comments therein – comments I would not expect from an educated and knowledgeable person.

You suggest that the delay of elections from 2010 to 2011, at the earliest, is “unacceptable and should be rejected”.

The milestones the British say must be met before elections can be re-introduced are nothing more than should reasonably be expected of any society that claims to be democratic – a constitution that engenders sound governance and financial management; a balanced budget and the necessary financial processes to make it attainable; a defined and fair process for the granting of citizenship; and substantial reform of a bloated and inefficient public service.

The fact that attaining these basic objectives will be as difficult as the British acknowledge is a direct legacy of the Turks and Caicos Islands having had a series of governments more interested in serving themselves than the country.

You criticise the interim government for dealing with the issue of public sector spending, and yet doing nothing to promote private sector development.

While both sides of the budget equation do indeed need to be addressed, the public spending side is under direct government control, and can be dealt with expeditiously – surely you will acknowledge the wisdom of eliminating as much waste

as possible from public expenditure before deciding how much money government must raise to balance its budget!

The matter of private sector development can only be addressed indirectly, and this is best done by creating an open and transparent policy for encouraging legitimate inward investment, backed by a credible and responsible government in power – and neither this policy nor this kind of government are yet in place.

You further accuse the interim government of “thinking us all…too inept and too inherently corrupt and unlearned to manage our affairs”.

Have you completely lost sight of the fact that the bankruptcy of the Turks and Caicos Islands is the doing of a government comprising exclusively Belongers, and elected

by Belongers alone?

Notwithstanding the effect the global economic downturn is having on all countries, the mess we (Belongers and expatriate residents alike) now find ourselves in is 100 per cent “homegrown”!

A critical factor in the success of any viable democracy is that the electorate have the intelligence and foresight to choose their representatives on the basis of the long-term good they can do for the country, and as long as votes here are traded for T-shirts, cases of Heineken and payment of the odd electricity bill, one must question the ability of Belongers to properly manage their own affairs.

Although not in this particular letter, it has become fashionable for you and other Belongers to accuse

the British of frustrating the hopes and aspirations of Turks and Caicos Islanders by “interfering” with your right to run your own country.

And yet you same critics argue that the British have an obligation to solve this country’s economic woes because they allowed the transgressions of previous governments to go unchecked.

This sounds to me like an assertion that Her Majesty’s Government is to be faulted for not “interfering” sooner than it did, and I wonder how you possibly reconcile these two points of view.

Please do not draw the inference that I am fully supportive of everything the interim government has done.

They have made some obvious blunders, and have made a horrible mess of the public relations aspect of governing by leaving a huge information vacuum that has quickly been filled by the rantings of former government officials.

The British are, however, providing the only financial lifeline this country has right now, and are doing so in an economic environment that sees the United Kingdom imposing very drastic austerity measures on its own citizens.

These are difficult times for all of us, and letters from prominent individuals like yourself, which argue for throwing off the British “yoke”, will do nothing to help things improve, and will only cause still greater uncertainty in the minds of private sector individuals thinking of investing here.

Lorne Rowe

Credit where credit’s due

Dear Editor, The present situation in the TCI gives us much to complain about these days but there are also a number of people who voluntarily are trying to improve our lives.

We often fail to say a simple word of thanks to those charged with keeping us safe and we many times fail to see that there are community minded people who continually strive to help make things better for all residents.

To that end, I would like to comment on the results being achieved by police in their Alpha 1 and 2 programmes plus the efforts of one of our neighbourhood watch groups, in concert with a local small business manager and a number of people who are helping the police in their effort to patrol our streets.

The police are often the target of criticism for not getting the crime rate down and we are all aware that violent crime has become much more common than it was in previous years.

That being said, the following are some statistics on the rate of crime in Provo.

In November 2009 there were 203 crime incidents reported in the TCI. In November 2010 there were 106 crime incidents reported. That is a

decrease of 48 per cent!

From July to November 2009 we experienced an average of 12 crime incidents per month. In November 2010 we experienced nine incidents or a 25 per cent decrease.

As we are all aware, burglaries, particularly residential burglaries, are substantially down. From 28 in July to about nine in November 2009 we experienced about nine robberies per month. In November 2010 we had 3 robberies; a 33 per cent decrease.

What has made the difference?

It is the hard work of a number of neighbourhood watch groups together with the police.

It is also obvious that the police are becoming a force to reckoned with. They have become more visible, have put pressure on the bad guys and initiated programmes like Alpha 1 and Alpha 2.

For all the criticism we have made of the police force it is time we also recognise the results they are achieving and start to deliver accolades and thanks.

I think I speak for all residents of the TCI when I say a big thanks to our police force!

Clearly, the changes by the Government to ensure longer sentences, the gun amnesty etc have also had an impact on the reduction

LETTERS SHOULD BE KEPT TO A MAXIMUM OF 450 WORDS

in crime in Provo but it is ‘boots on the ground’ that ultimately brings results.

I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of our neighbourhood watch groups, particularly one group who have stepped up and gone that extra mile to help the police in their efforts to deter crime.

For both the Alpha 1 and Alpha 2 efforts this group, along with another willing soul, have provided food and drink to the police carrying out the ‘on the ground’ effort .

I am speaking of the Welk Lane neighbourhood watch group headed

by Sandra Shaw and Belinda Martin, of PTS Tool Rentals.

Sandra and Belinda have received a great deal of help and support from other neighbourhood watch groups, residents and, I believe, some businesses in Provo.

I would like to say a big thanks to Sandra, Belinda and all the people who have been involved in helping our police force in their efforts to make our area safe.

I would encourage everyone to contribute to these volunteer efforts.

Please contact Sandra at theshaws@ tciway.tc. No contribution is too small; every bit helps!

Fred Skovberg

Dear Editor, I am grateful to those who gave their time, talents and resources towards the fourth annual Miss Gospel Turks and Caicos Pageant on November 20 2010 at the Williams Auditorium.

They have been very instrumental in making the night a success and I thank them.

I especially thank those who were a part of the planning committee and also helped in the training of the girls, who include: Mrs Josephine Connolly, Mr David Bowen, Mr Terrance Rodgers, Miss Ange Toussaint and Mr Jamel Williams.

Thank you also to the judges and the MCs: Dr Rufus Ewing, Minister Valetta Arthur, Mrs Clarice Been, Miss Kadian McLean ‘Lady K’, Mr Obrian Forbes and Mrs Sheryl Williams.

I would also like to appreciate those who took part with ticket sales, VIP, decoration, preparing the gift baskets, opening prayer, also as an escort: Mrs Sharleen Adderley, Miss Lamuela Johnson, Mr Alex Fortune, Mrs Daphne Taylor, Miss Sandy Talbot and Minister Julie Smith.

Thanks also to the TV host of ‘Turquoise Morning’ Deandrea Hamilton and Dr Conrad Howell for the ‘On your mind show’, Darold Miller for ‘Talk of the Town’ who allowed me and my girls to be on your show.

I am also grateful to all the sponsors who gave of their goods and services and funds to make this happen. These sponsors include but

are not limited to: ROJ Network New Vision 9, 98.9 Faith FM, PTV Network Channel 8, Pennylaine Photo Studio, Graceway IGA, Turks and Caicos Weekly News, Connolly Productions and Tropical Auto Rentals, Praise Him FM, Island FM, TCI Paint and Supply, Air Turks and Caicos, Business Solutions, Rosie’s Delight restaurant, Beaches Turks and Caicos, Lime For Living Everyday, Digicel, ABC Printing, Mr Harold Charles and company, Mr Samuel Harvey, Mr Clayton Greene, Conservative Architects Ltd, Airport Inn Hotel, Osprey Beach Hotel, Somerset Resort, WIV Channel 4, Quality Supermarket, Price Club and Imperial Dry Cleaning.

I am truly blessed to have all these angels who help to carry this vision through for the fourth year and pray for your continued guidance and participation for the years to come.

Once again I thank you.

My apologies to those whose names may have been left out, this is not intentional, please accept my apologies.

I thank those who took the time out to come.

God bless us all and God bless these ‘beautiful by nature’ Turks and Caicos Islands.

Minister Lorna Brown aka ‘God’s-Gem’ Youth Minister and Royal Gem Production director

Reply to Mike St Louis’s letter Dear Editor, Further to Mike St Louis’s rather unfortunate letter in the Weekly News Dec 4 – 10, I have to say firstly the policy was not placed through my office so I am not fully aware of the facts which led to the breakdown in the system.

I do however feel compelled to respond since I have had extensive dealings with BUPA, the insurance company Mike feels aggrieved with and I have also been a vocal critic of NHIP. There is something here which just doesn’t add up.

1) By his own admission this was a pre-existing condition – that is, Mike was aware of the problem before taking out the insurance.

Private medical coverage does not normally cover pre-existing conditions. If declared on the application form, the condition might have an increased deductible, be excluded for a period of say one or two years or, in the worse case, permanently excluded on the policy.

If the pre-existing condition is not declared on the application form usually it is not covered at all and the insurance company reserves the right to cancel the policy.

That might sound harsh but it is a fundamental difference between private and nationalised health care.

2) Then Mike decides he is “covered” on his policy for the first consultation at Cleveland Clinic! To me the next key point is Mike appears to have made the arrangements with Cleveland Clinic and gone ahead on the basis of the agent saying he is covered.

Again, without knowing the facts here, this could be the root cause of the problem. The insurance agent cannot make that decision, it has to come from the insurance company.

It is the insurance company or their administrator who will pay the hospital directly.

It would appear that the system for non-emergency procedures was not adhered to. Clearly in this instance something went seriously wrong.

Inthelast12yearsdealingwithmedical insurance I can emphatically state I have never known a situation where a client was declined coverage having got to the hospital.

Then there is the strange assertion “that BUPA had changed their mind”.

Do you mean by this that, after a full review of the medical records, the company decided this would have been pre-existing but was not prediagnosed?

I think there should be a fundamental issue with out of pocket expenses being paid to people who can afford to cover their own non-medical bills.

This was one of the main abuses of the old government system.

Lastly regards the renewal of your policy, in spite of the events, nothing has changed.

Private medical insurance is not cheap and in the tough times many have elected to let NHIP decide where and when they are treated in what could be a ‘life or death situation’. Mike, either way I wish you well.

Martin P. Regan Accordia Insurance Brokers

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.

December 22 - January 8, 2011

Letters

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

13

continued

Protests essential against injustice

Dear Editor, It has been quite amazing to read the headlines from the UK citing protesters angry at a huge tuition fee hike, are fighting with police and smashing windows in London, after legislators in the House of Commons approved a plan to triple university fees to 9,000 pounds ($14,000) a year.

Thousands of students staged a peaceful protest but a minority turned violent, hurling sticks and rocks at riot police, smashing store windows and setting on fire a giant Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square.

It was reported that the protesters even attacked Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall’s car. The Duchess apparently received a blow to the head during the altercation.

The students have organised more than 100 protest sites to put forth large demonstrations on Her Majesty’s front door steps.

The UK are not strangers to protests; for 2010 alone, Britain has had hundreds of thousands of persons protested against the Pope, the bank bailouts, mosque protests by the English Defence League, Greenpeace against BP and numerous others stemming from everything from gay rights to cultural funding.

The point is that to protest is

an acceptable and internationally utilised tool necessary for drawing awareness to various issues.

The British want us to accept that they were ‘surprised’ by the TC Islanders who (according to the consultative forum chair) behaved as if they were uneducated and uncivilised, by putting forth peaceful protest in the face of various injustices against our human rights under this climate where no democracy currently exists.

A single decision passed by their lawmakers continues to draw thousands of students, teachers and citizens to protest in Britain; yet so many unfavourable decisions have been allowed to go through with minimal uprising from the people of the TCI who, in my opinion, have been passive to their own disadvantage.

We have suffered the dismantling of our Government and the appointment of an interim administration headed by a sole Governor, the suspension of our constitution and the insulting recommendations put forth by the FCO’s Kate Sullivan.

No date yet set for elections and a return of democracy, pay cuts, redundancies and unfair dismissals.

We have, despite nationwide opposition, had our fundamental rights disrespected in the passing of the Trials Without Jury Bill in criminal cases in the Supreme Court, civil servants’ pension freeze, the

‘Occupiers’ must leave Dear Editor, I have read with bated breath and utter consternation the last pronouncement that came out of London and Waterloo and must say that that is the biggest crock of nonsense that has ever come down the pike to us!

We expect some guidelines and milestones to govern the occupation and indicate the departure date but to come up with this foolishness is a slap in our face and an insult to our intelligence.

In the wake of what is happening to the global financial markets, how in heaven’s name is it expected that we could realistically dig ourselves out of the current hole of a projected $60m deficit and be in balance by 2012/13?

The most advanced countries cannot come up with a programme to balance their budgets in 10 years, so how do they realistically expect a small, vulnerable economy to do so in two to three years?

To further add insult to injury, these guys are planning to hold on to the purse strings of this country even after a politically elected Government is in place.

Which sane Premier would allow himself to be so hamstrung by some unelected civil servant?

Do you really think that he would be comfortable raising revenue and then ceding how that money is spent and let himself be subordinate to some unelected official that would dictate as to what is the priority of the elected representatives? Hell no!

That is not going to be so!

The British, after they joined the European Union, refused to be part of the Euro, the official currency.

So why do they feel that they can best determine what is in our best interest over and above the will of

those persons specifically elected so to determine?

They cannot claim to be the bastions of financial propriety because Barings Bank and Castle Rock went under during their supervision. The persons that are currently being sent here are no economic Nobel Prize laureates!

Let us look at what we are subtly being told! Lay off civil servants in record numbers, further cut service delivery programmes and raise taxes on the backs of an ever shrinking population!

With the private sector contracting every day due to the lack of promotion of the Turks and Caicos Islands as a destination in which to do business and the constant threat of land and other taxes, where in the hell are those persons that are laid off going to find employment?

Is it the covert plan to really turn us into a basket case for Turks and Caicos Islanders and create an enclave for the British who want to bask in our sunshine at our expense?

Look around us! Have you seen a major private sector initiative that has come to the fore during the Wetherell administration to date? The answer must be a resounding no!

The Governor is the only politician in charge of everything and everything is going to hell in a hand basket.

He was seen presenting keys to a low cost housing owner a few days ago! Is that what we must now aspire to?

Yes we must rethink our approach to balanced development but that must not be by looking at the bottom of the barrel but more smartly utilising the resources available to us.

Royal Robinson

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retirement of our Belonger Deputy Governor, they are costing us in excess of $1m per month for newly implemented British officials while denying our civil servants any additional injections into needy ministries.

Crime has risen over 300 per cent since the implementation of the interim administration, increased taxes and the implementation of additional taxes on our people that will surely see us below the poverty line.

As Stevie Wonder can see we, the

people of the TCI, have more than enough reason to protest and we intend to stand for our rights, lest we bow to injustice.

I believe Lord Blackwell from the new Sherlock Holmes movie described the British Government’s mandate better than they have ever given us the privilege.

He said, addressing members of his coven: “My powers were given to me for one purpose. A magnificent but simple purpose - to create a new future. A future ruled by us.”

And, appearing before Parliament for the first time since his death: “You seem surprised. I have returned from beyond the grave to fulfill England’s destiny and extend the boundaries of this great empire. Listen to the rabble outside, listen to their fear. I will use that as a weapon to control them and then the world.”

Let us stand Turks and Caicos. I would rather live as a free Turks and Caicos Islander than a British Slave.

Euwonka Selver

Fixing our broken society Dear Editor, During the last 18 months and, most recently, I have been observing the attitudes of citizens and, more particularly, the Christian communities including the pastors’ response to the political and governmental issues in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

In this regard, some Christians have been saying that the Lord has been speaking to them.

I too received the same words commonly recited although with different views as to what should be done in order to achieve maximum results in restoring things back to the norm.

The quote taken from 11 Chron. 8 vs 14: “If my people who are called by my name shall humble themselves and pray, seek his face, turn from their wicked ways.”

These words are whispered into my spirit sometimes when I think about what to say to this nation which is yearning for change.

I believe that God has blessed me with prophetic abilities and spiritual discernment. So with these gifts I have been asking and trusting God that his Holy Spirit will make plain to me the vision for the healing of our land.

It seems there is a clear command that we as a Christian people should humble ourselves and pray. God has brought our country to this position; it was our prayers which brought us thus far.

The way forward is to pray to God with humbleness of heart and to

remember to give God thanks.

Quite often when God moves we may not be able to appreciate what he is doing.

However, he does not call us to understand, instead bids us to be in total obedience to him and to wait patiently on the Lord.

God instructs us how to pray. This must be done in true repentance for his will to be done.

Sometimes it appears that when we meet as Christians to pray for our nation, we may be too busy praying for the healing of our land without true repentance and begging forgiveness for having scarred our land in the first place.

It is vital is to seek God’s face by honestly asking him what has gone wrong and trust in him to speak to our hearts and show us.

When God reveals these into our daily lives it is not Christ-like to argue boastfully with ‘the powers that be’ which may often be in direct contradiction to God. Instead it is necessary to exercise wisdom, fear the Lord and shun evil or that which appears to be evil.

It should be practicable to respect all those in authority over us, praying for them and trusting God that he would implant in them to do his good and perfect will; administering justice and equality with the highest level of integrity.

Then and only then will he hear our prayers, forgive our sins and heal our land.

However in exercising humbleness is patience, persistence

and perseverance for what you believe in.

If you need something keep banging on doors (ask, seek, knock).

At some stage you may well meet who you believed to be your opponent praising the Lord, and here comes your blessings.

Those of authority have become your servants only because you were humble enough to lead the way.

Remember, whatsoever things that are of a good report; think on those things.

Leonora Missick

Pleas to L’Raye Cinema Dear Editor, Come on L’Raye Cinema, please bring the new Harry Potter movie to TCI for Christmas.

Me and my mates are desperate to see it. We have seen all the others and read the books.

Come on L’Raye get a move on! Expecto Patronum everyone!

Charlie McKnight Age 9

What’s sauce for the goose

Dear Editor The report that the billionaire at Chalk Sound, Providenciales, entered a transaction with his sellers to pass the land off at being valued at $10m instead of its true value of $28m is troubling.

But who is Emerald Cay Limited at 560 Beatrice Butterfield Building? Who is Worldwide Properties Limited? Can it be said that these companies falsified the record of the land transfer form?

Where this is the case the civil recovery team should be passing this document onto the Attorney General so charges could be filed under the Theft Ordinance.

Did the billionaire get proper legal advice on preparing this document? Now one can see how the TCI, which went through a ‘massive economic boom’ through 1995 and 2008, does not have any money.

This must be one of the many reasons why the country is “broke”.

But no one wants to see a cover up here.

Yes go after them for stamp duty fraud but will the Attorney General and the Brits play ‘rich man politics’ and allow this billionaire to go scot free on any ensuing criminal charges?

If they do and play these games how would they prosecute former Ministers? Are they planning to let developers like this one go?

So far, developers like these who openly destroyed the TCI economy and openly bribed the Premier are being allowed to get away.

Let’s hope there is honesty in the filing of these lawsuits and that these lawsuits are not an excuse to let the alleged culprits get away with clear criminal offences.

No small man or no poor man should be allowed to get away with fraud and stamp duty offences. The result is a bankrupt economy and a 10 per cent pay cut for civil servants.

It is possible that hardworking people paid for this alleged fraud and many other frauds against the treasury of the TCI. Mr Governor, Mr Capes, Mrs Garlick, Mr Cameron, Mr Hague, Mr chairman of the UK’s Foreign Affairs Committee and Mr Attorney General, you are being watched closely, being weighed, assessed and the proverbial jury is out, quite ironically here, on your actions; what you will do and what you will not do.

Double standards and selective prosecutions cannot be allowed. We all know former Ministers cannot get away and will face criminal charges.

But the same law which would govern all persons who are ‘mortals’ - that’s you, me and the man on the street - must govern the immortals, the billionaires, developers and former Ministers.

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.

TB

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December 22 - January 8, 2011

December 22 - January 8, 2011

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 22 - January 8, 2011

s ' n o s a e S

s g n i t Gree The year end brings no greater pleasure then the opportunity to express to you season's greetings and good wishes. May your holidays and new year be filled with JOY.

The Regent Village Grace Bay | Central Square , Providenciales | Windmills Plaza, Grand Turk

December 22 - January 8, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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T u r k s a n d C aic o s

Weekly News

Special

December 22 - January 8, 2011

SUPPLEMENT

Talks underway for

transatlantic flights

By Gemma Handy

TALKS are underway with European airlines which will see almost daily direct transatlantic flights soon heading into the TCI, it has been revealed.

Deals signed with additional carriers would see thousands of extra tourists pouring into the country when the $70m expansion of Providenciales Airport is completed next year.

Contractors are on track to complete the mammoth scheme in July – several weeks ahead of schedule.

Airport Authority (TCIAA) chief John Smith told last week’s Chamber of Commerce meeting that negotiations were already taking place with interested companies across the pond.

But specific details are currently being kept under wraps to preserve commercial confidentiality.

“Yes there are talks underway with European carriers but I can’t say with who because it may jeopardise our chances of securing them,” he said.

“Airlines are very sensitive; one starting operations even a day before another can ensure its success or failure.”

Mr Smith said he expected to see flights to and from Europe scheduled for most days of the week.

Groundbreaking began in July for the airport project which includes a

new, longer runway and an expansion and overhaul of the terminal.

Tourism bosses hope to encourage more European holidaymakers to TCI shores in a bid to prolong the holiday season and stave off the fiscal decline during the summer months.

“We will be able to access markets not open to us before,” Mr Smith said.

“Introducing new carriers will help facilitate the economic growth of the TCI by increasing the amount of visitors to our shores. It sends a positive signal to the international community.”

The TCIAA chief said the Islands were still “very much a destination in high demand”.

“Compared to our Caribbean neighbours we are well ahead of the game but we can’t become complacent.”

He said the project was accompanied by new stringent controls for the protection of local businesses.

“The airport development is, in my opinion, a critical milestone to our economic growth,” he continued.

“It will allow us to provide the Government with a much needed

Airport Authority chief John Smith said the TCI was still “very much a destination in high demand”.

stream of revenue to help balance the budget and provide necessary funds for infrastructure.”

Mr Smith added that the scheme would boost and diversify investment

opportunities in the country by providing a broader base of visitors.

The onset of direct transatlantic flights comes in addition to an extra 16 flights a week from February

when JetBlue and Continental launch operations in the Islands.

Those two new services alone will see almost 90,000 extra visitors a year – about a 30 per cent hike on recent years – Mr Smith said.

Caesar Campbell, boss of the country’s Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA), said the organisation welcomed the news that European airlines were already embroiled in discussions with the TCI. “We will continue to work closely together with the Airport Authority to make it happen,” he pledged.

Meanwhile, the Islands’ resorts, hotels and tour operators are bracing themselves for a busy winter season.

Mr Campbell added: “The season is looking good for this winter; we are hoping to get 70 per cent hotel room occupancy thanks to more airlift coming in.

“That’s about a 10 per cent increase on last year.”

It’s good news for the country’s number one industry which took a tumble last year due to the worldwide recession.

JetBlue Airways will launch yearround daily flights to and from New York’s JFK Airport from February 17. From February 19, there will also be high season Saturday flights to and from Boston.

And from February 18, 2011, Continental Airlines will fly four times a week to and from Newark Liberty International Airport. From March those flights will become daily.

Happy

Holidays

At the holiday season, our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made our success possible.

It is in this spirit we say ... thank you and best wishes for the holidays and a happy new year FROM ALL OF US HERE AT THE

T u r k s a n d C aic o s

Weekly News Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales P.O. Box 52, Turks & Caicos Islands, BWI

2

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT

December 22 - January 8, 2011

December 22 - January 8, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT

3

NATIONAL

Christmas message from the Governor CHRISTMAS and the new year is a time to pay tribute to all those church leaders and public servants, the police, the Prison Service, the Fire Service, our teachers, doctors and nurses, the voluntary sector and the many in the private sector, who have all worked tirelessly, in often difficult circumstances, to make life better and safer, and to sustain the values which nourish our community.

At this time of Christmas cheer, let us also be mindful of those in our community who are less fortunate than us or who have been affected particularly hard by the difficulties of the past year and ensure that they too share in the joy of celebrating the birth of our Lord.

This year 2010 has been a difficult year for the Turks and Caicos Islands, with the economy continuing to labour under the effects of the global recession as well as the legacy of financial mismanagement and waste by the previous Government.

Though much has been done to help restore the Islands to good governance and sound financial management, much remains to be done, as you will have seen from the Written Ministerial Statement of December 9 made by the Minister for the Overseas Territories and the Minister of State for International Development.

This is crucial work which we must accomplish for the well-being and future prosperity of the TCI. It will be accomplished all the more quickly and effectively if we all pull together, guided by the same common purpose: a Turks and Caicos Islands which meets the aspirations of its inhabitants and enjoys the confidence of visitors and investors in the wider international community; a Turks and Caicos Islands which is governed by the

Santa ‘Paws’ comes to town

By Paul Baker

rule of law with an administration dedicated to promoting sustained economic growth on a basis of stable public finances and to providing the services required to meet the needs of an increasingly sophisticated community.

In this context I should like to thank in particular the members of the advisory council and consultative forum for the time and effort they have dedicated to their important role in the governance of the TCI. As we spend time with family and friends this Christmas, and ready ourselves to meet the challenges ahead, I look forward to working closely with all those who have the best interests of the Turks and Caicos Islands at heart.

Let us work together to put the Turks and Caicos Islands firmly on the path to achieve their rich potential.

My wife and family join me in wishing you all a very happy Christmas and a happy and healthy new year.

Gordon Wetherell

PROVO pets are in for a great Christmas, thanks to their biggest fans.

Volunteers from TCSPCA held a festive fair where owners were able to purchase special treats for dogs and cats.

The 2010 Christmas Shoppe was held at the charity’s headquarters on Suzie Turn with the event packed with visitors from start to finish.

As well as being able to buy presents for pets, locally made gifts were also on sale along with egg nog and Christmas cookies.

Meanwhile there was also lots of fun for the children with a Santa Paws grotto, pony rides, face painting and a huge Scooby-Doo character handing out candy.

One youngster who enjoyed the occasion was five-year-old Aiden Paisley, who said: “I have had a great time and I got to see Santa Claus. I also had a ride on a pony which was awesome.”

All proceeds are going towards funding the excellent work done by the TCSPCA, especially at this time of year.

TCSPCA’s Jenny Cheesman said: “It’s been a wonderful day and we would like to thank everyone who helped make the event so successful.

“The proceeds will be put to very good use as we continue to fight against cruelty and give a voice to animals that don’t have one.

“The work we do is vital all year round but Christmas is an especially important time and so we say a big thank you for your wonderful support.”

Little Aiden Paisley enjoys a pony ride

Happy Christmas On behalf of my brother priests, Fr. George Klybus, Fr. Bruno Sammarco, Fr. José Abalon, Fr. Giuseppe Fedele 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.

Monsignor Peter Baldacchino Pastor and Chancellor Our Lady of Divine Providence Roman Catholic Church Leeward Highway Providenciales

Public service Christmas closures HOLIDAY dates have been announced for the public service.

Duties will be suspended for a half day on Christmas Eve from 12.30pm to 4.30pm.

Offices will also be closed on December 27 and 28 and from 12.30pm to 4.30pm on December 31. In addition, civil sector outlets will be shut on January 3.

Youngsters meet Scooby-Doo at the TCSPCA fair

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT

December 22 - January 8, 2011

NATIONAL

this week

Wednesday, December 22  The Turks and Caicos National Museum in Grand Turk will be open from 1pm to 5pm every Wednesday throughout November and December.

Museum manager Jackie Garbarino said: “We want the museum to be accessible to the divers and local tourists and residents.

“If we have a good response then we will consider extending beyond December.”

Normal hours are 9am to 1pm Monday through Saturday and on days the cruise ships are in, the museum will be open from 9am until one hour before departure, about 4pm.

To check the cruise ship schedule visit www.grandturkcc. com/Scheduling.aspx

Thursday, December 23  Tropicana Show and Supper Club presents an evening of buffet dining and entertainment this Thursday to raise money for the Ona Glinton Primary School rebuild fund.

Among the acts performing on the night will be David Been, Candi Barrotti, James Lowe,

Marvin Henfield, Alan Lenathen and Georgia McKnight.

Tickets cost $50 and doors open from 7pm.

For more details call 3327687, 346-3000 or 246-8510.

Monday, December 27  The rhythm and vibe of Junkanoo will be combined with the mystery and colour of masquerade to create a vibrant new community street show.

The Maskanoo event which is set to take place between 5pm and midnight will be free to the public.

A parade will go from Grace Bay beach road between the Seven Stars Resort and Salt Mills Plaza where there will be tents selling island food and drink, and local arts and crafts.

During the evening there will be plenty of live music, dancing and entertainment, and a grand firework finale on Grace Bay beach followed by an after party on Grace Bay Road.

The Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) and the Cultural Arts Commission (CAC) will be presenting the festival together with sponsors Royal Jewels.

Christmas cheer at Doris Robinson Primary TEACHERS and pupils at Doris Robinson Primary School in Middle Caicos received an early Christmas surprise when Digicel came to visit.

Staff at the telecoms company brought a variety of gifts and goodies for their adopted school just in time for their annual Christmas concert.

Ava-Dayne Kerr, head of marketing at Digicel, said: “Christmas is a special time of the year.

“Our children especially look forward to Christmas and the joy it brings in the form of gift giving and other festivities.

“As we reflect on the year and the season, Digicel wants to ensure that Christmas is always bright for the students of our adopted school, Doris Robinson Primary.”

Principal Keisha Mills was delighted with the gifts and expressed her thanks to the company.

“Digicel has always been there for Doris Robinson and this year we want to let them know that we really appreciate their efforts and the Christmas cheer they have brought to our children.”

FESTIVE DELIGHTS: Digicel staff give pupils at Doris Robinson Primary some early Christmas gifts

Improvements to Amanyara resort BOSSES at the exclusive Amanyara resort are preparing to unveil enhancement works set to further cement its reputation as an idyllic hideaway for well-heeled clientele.

Six new pool suites are touted as featuring the largest private pools of any hotel room in the Caribbean, each one measuring 40 feet by 14 feet.

Younger guests will also be catered to with the addition of a children’s club and private nanny service.

The resort has expanded its beach club too, available to resort guests and villa owners for casual lunches overlooking the turquoise waters and stunning Malcolm’s Beach.

The expansion works were conducted by TCI construction firms Coxco and RJ Construction Ltd. The 99-acre Northwest Point

World-famous Amanyara is renowned for its spectacular architecture and scenery.

resort comprises 40 private guest pavilions and 20 large villas plus a

30-seat cinema, fitness centre, spa and tennis courts.

Travel agent earns ‘Degree in Fun’ A HOME-based travel agent from Blue Hills has spent six months studying hard to improve her qualifications and has earned herself a ‘Degree in Fun’.

Grisilder E Lightbourne-Perez successfully completed Carnival Cruise Lines’ comprehensive new travel agent online training programme.

As a result she was given a ‘Bachelor’s of Fun Degree’ and is now a qualified Carnival sales specialist.

Launched earlier this year, the intensive web-based course encompasses five distinct chapters, each focusing on different aspects

CAPAA C o r n e r

Local personality David Been will take to the stage on December 23.

of the world’s largest cruise operator and its various vacation products.

To earn this Degree in Funology, Grisilder had to successfully master content related to such wide-ranging topics as the line’s 37-year history, new features on the fleet of ‘Fun Ships’, a broad selection of shipboard activities and entertainment, including the line’s popular youth programmes, as well as creating group business opportunities within the local community.

Grisilder explained: “The cruise industry is constantly evolving so it is critical that travel agents keep upto-date on the wide variety of cruise

offerings available.

“Carnival’s highly interactive and immersive training programme was extremely effective and will enable me to help clients choose the cruise that’s right for them.”

Carnival is the largest and most popular cruise line in the world with a fleet of 22 “Fun Ships” operating three to 16 day voyages to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, New England, Bermuda, and Europe.

Located in Blue Hills, Providenciales, TCI Cruise Planners is a full service travel agency specialising in cruise vacations and much more.

Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Association

Your source for information on the rights and protection of children

In 1994 the Turks and Caicos Islands Human Rights Commission signed onto The Convention of the Rights of the Child. There are fifty four (54) Articles in this document.

Bi-weekly CAPAA will update you on one of these rights with a

comment.

The Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Association wishes the children of the Turks and Caicos a safe and happy holiday and God’s blessings for 2011.

CAPAA comment

Parents, guardians and the people of the Turks and Caicos pledge to make this Christmas an abuse free one for the children.

Any questions please call National Youth Hotline @ 1800-534-8256

December 22 - January 8, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT

Lifestyle...

December 22 - January 8, 2011

fitness Tip 

Twelve ways to keep festive fit WITH Christmas just around the corner, check out these seasonal tips for staying healthy and in shape.

Raise a glass of bubbly Drinking bubbly may reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Despite its light colour, champagne includes red grapes rich in polyphenols, plant chemicals that dilate blood vessels and improve circulation.

Update your iPod with festive songs ‘Tis the season to swap ‘Eye Of The Tiger’ for ‘Ding Dong Merrily on High’ – both tracks have a similar number of beats per minute to spur you on while you train.

Add protein to your drinks The Bloody Mary is already regarded as a healthy king among cocktails: it’s packed with vitamin C, the lycopene

in the tomato juice strengthens your heart, and the fructose helps metabolise alcohol quicker. Upgrade to a Lobster Bloody Mary and you’ll not only add omega-3 fatty acids, you’ll get some muscle too as lobster contains more lean protein per ounce than any other meat.

Eat more, buy less Hunger makes you spend more – and not just in supermarkets, say experts.

So have a square meal before doing your final gift hunt.

Make a date with dates A handful of the seasonal snack can reduce fats in your blood by one sixth. Although the dried variety is high in sucrose, it is low GI so won’t spike your blood sugar levels.

Eat purple veg When singer Mariah Carey wants to shed a few pounds for a red carpet

event, nothing but purple food passes her lips. Purple can also reign at the Christmas dinner table with purple sprouts and Purple Majesty potatoes. The colouring comes from anthocyanins, plant pigments said to have antioxidant properties.

Ask Santa for socks They’re hardly the most stylish addition to your running kit but compression socks – which marathon runner Paula Radcliffe swears by – support your calf muscles and could help you to a personal best. They are said to improve circulation and blood flow, enabling you to run longer and faster.

Go for a dawn run Watch your weight come down as the sun comes up. Sunshine is a great source of vitamin D, which researchers believe can also help keep you trim. Studies have linked low levels of the vitamin pre-diet to sluggish weight loss in slimmers.

Pull a cracker Researchers say giggling for a few minutes a day burns enough calories to burn 5lbs of fat a year.

Traditional Christmas fudge

Ingredients: @@ 2 tbsps butter or margarine @@ Two-thirds cup undiluted evaporated milk @@ One and a half cups granulated sugar @@ Quarter tsp salt @@ 2 cups miniature marshmallows @@ One and a half cups semi-sweet chocolate morsels @@ Half cup chopped pecans or walnuts @@ 1 tsp vanilla extract

Method: @@ Combine butter, evaporated milk, sugar and salt in medium, heavy saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.

Boil for four to five minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.

Stir in marshmallows, morsels, nuts and vanilla. Stir vigorously for one minute or until marshmallows are melted. @@ Pour into foil-lined eight-inch square baking pan. Sprinkle with additional pecans if desired. @@ Chill until firm.

Flatten that belly To beat festive bloating, try taking odourless garlic capsules. They contain allicin which works against unwanted bacteria and yeasts in the gut.

Tuck into turkey Don’t save yourself for the big day.

One of the leanest meats, turkey is full of vitamins and minerals such as zinc and potassium, which keep the blood cholesterol levels down and is

believed to guard against cancer and heart disease.

Love those sprouts

Give your immune system a boost with this seasonal superfood. They are full of essential minerals and vitamins C.

December 22 - January 8, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT

Lifestyle...

Money Tip

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

With Mary Hamilton of Meridian Trust

The joy of giving

(without a debt hangover)

The fruit hangs in clusters looking like Christmas ornaments.

Christmas palm tree THE CHRISTMAS palm tree, scientific name veitchia merrillii, is one of the most popular palms in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The Christmas palm is also known as Manila palm, Kerpis palm, Adonidia palm, Dwarf Royal palm, and Veitchia palm. It is native to the small islands of the Philippines located north of Malaysia and Indonesia.

In the wild veitchia merrillii is known to grow up to 20 feet tall but in cultivation it usually doesn’t get taller than 15 feet and an average trunk diameter of one foot.

It has a lot of similar characteristics with the Royal palm tree and sometimes is even called Dwarf royal palm. Christmas palm trees are much smaller and are easier to manage in comparison to the Royal palm trees.

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The Christmas palm has a smooth slender grey trunk that is slightly swollen at the base and ringed with old leaf scars. Bright green crownshaft supports a crown of 10 to 12 pinnate, or feather-shaped, fronds.

Short crown shaft is about three feet long. Leaves are glossy, strongly arched, grow to a length of five feet with sharp-edged leaflets that are up to two feet long by two inches wide.

During summer months the Christmas palm produces light green flower buds that turn into creamy

blossom. Unisexual flowers are held by two feet long branched stalks that emerge from the area where the crown shaft attaches to the trunk.

In December flowers are followed by green oval fruits that turn bright red as they ripe. Berry-like fruits are an inch long and one fifth of an inch wide.

They hang in clusters looking like Christmas ornaments, hence the name.

The Christmas palm is moderately salt tolerant and prefers moist, well drained soil. To avoid root rot don’t let it sit in water.

It likes full sun but can also grow in broken shade. It can tolerate drought for a short time when mature enough. It does not require much maintenance. The only thing you need to do is to remove old dead leaves to keep it looking neat.

The showy Christmas palm is a compact beauty whose small stature makes it perfect for use in courtyards, atriums and other small scale plantings.

It is sometimes closely planted in groups of two or three. This causes the twin’s (or trio’s) stems to curve in graceful arcs away from the centre of the planting creating a lovely living sculpture.

The formal symmetry of Christmas palm is nicely showcased when it is grown in a container. Indoors or out this is a glamorous container plant that can maintain its looks despite hardship and neglect.

Seeds in the spring. It is best to propagate seeds in a mixture of moist peat and perlite. Cover the pot and plant with a plastic bag secured by a rubber band to prevent the moisture from escaping.

Place in indirect sunlight or under a fluorescent light. Repot in its regular mix after it has been growing for a while. It will take around one to three months to germinate.

EVER since the three wise men brought gifts to the baby Jesus, gift giving has been associated with Christmas.

However, there is no hard and fast rule that says you need to spend a fortune on gifts. After all, it is supposed to be the thought that counts not the value of the gift.

I do not believe that, just because money is tight, you should forget about gift giving this Christmas. There is great pleasure to be had from giving a gift and seeing the face of the recipient light up when they open it.

However, you should not need to arrange a credit card consolidation loan, a debt management plan, a secured homeowner loan, or quick mortgage just to pay for your Christmas celebration.

Here is some advice to help you keep your bank manager happy, without looking like Ebenezer Scrooge, from the Dickens novel ‘A Christmas Carol’, when giving gifts this Christmas: Don’t forget Christmas just because you cannot afford it; you need to set a budget and work within that budget.

Set a limit for how much you will spend on each person you want to buy presents for. Even if it is just $5, the thought will surely be appreciated by those that care.

Ask people, if they had $X what would they spend it on?

This will give you a clue as to what they really want. Then get it for them.

Consider giving gift tokens if you are not sure what to buy.

The recipient of your gift may be

hard up too and could really use your token towards something useful but ‘too boring to ask for as a gift’.

Big spending does not necessarily mean a happier recipient.

Sometimes an expensive but poorly thought out gift can mean less than a small but heartfelt one. Big value gifts can sometimes make the recipient feel uncomfortable, especially if they cannot match the value of the gift in return.

Shop around for gifts. Do a search on the internet for the item you are looking for. Why not see if you can buy it off eBay? Don’t overspend on your children. It is far better to sit down with your older children and explain what a budget is and the danger of using credit cards to buy things you can’t afford, than pretend money grows on trees.

If your children are very young then you may need to explain that Santa Claus has been hit by the credit crunch and that this year there may be less presents.

They will get a useful financial lesson for the future.

Don’t borrow money just to pay for a great Christmas as this money will need to be paid back at a later date with interest. Be realistic and spend what you can comfortably afford today.

In summary, if you are honest with yourself and your family, set yourself a budget, don’t spend emotionally, are creative and think about each purchase, you can still enjoy the feeling of giving and receiving this Christmas.

Lots of people are in the same position and you are certainly not alone in this. Wishing you a very merry Christmas!

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December 22 - January 8, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT

health Tip 

Stay safe this Christmas FROM sinking one glass of champagne too many to taking a tumble while putting up the decorations, there could be many potential dangers facing people during the festive season.

Here are some tips on staying safe – and legal – this Christmas.

Don’t drink and drive – or let anyone else do so Know your limit. Broadly speaking, the safe drink driving limit is no more than two units. A unit is approximately one bottle of ordinary strength beer, a small glass of light table wine or a single 25ml measure of spirits.

In reality, anyone trying to drink up to the limit runs a serious risk of exceeding it and therefore it is far safer and wiser to not drink at all before driving.

It is also important to remember that a half pint of beer or a glass of wine can contain considerably more than one unit. And spirit measures vary greatly too.

The rate of absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream depends on a number of factors such as the level of hydration, the type of alcoholic drink consumed and whether food is eaten at the same time.

The alcohol in a drink is general fully absorbed about an hour after the drink is finished.

Stay calm Keep a close eye on those who may drink too much alcohol. Some

people can become aggressive rather than friendly. A party will be spoiled if it ends in a punch up or harassment complaint.

Head for heights Use a stepladder to put up decorations. Never stand on a swivel chair, as it could send you spinning to the ground.

Sparks shouldn’t fly Home and offices are crammed with electrical appliances which could be a fire hazard if their air vents get blocked. Remember to hang any tinsel or garlands well away from lights and other sources of heat, such as computers.

Safety first Thousands of people are injured by Christmas trees every year, so be careful when putting them up. Make sure they are secure and won’t be knocked.

And never use electric lights on a metallic tree. The tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights and electrocute someone.

Always unplug Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to sleep.

Food for thought Keep fresh party food in a fridge and don’t leave it out in a hot room all day. Remember to keep fresh and cooked meats separate.

Leave the car at home when partying.

Thanks to Almighty God and others WEEKLY News health columnist Phillip Simmons has been no stranger to illness himself this year.

Here he offers thanks to all who supported him on the road back to recovery.

PSALM 118:1: Oh give thanks unto the Lord for he is good, because his mercy endureth for ever. Psalm 118:17: I shall not die but live and declare the works of the Lord. Psalm 118:28: Thou art my God and I will

praise thee: thou art my God, I will exalt thee.

After giving thanks to God Almighty, I say a big thank you to my wife of 14 years Mrs Guimose Simmons. Let me say publicly and openly, thank you so much for all of your kindness, all of your love, all of your support, be it spiritual, physical, emotional.

I know that God has a blessing somewhere with your name on it and it will soon be here just for you and let me say openly and publicly I love you and I know that you love me with all the support that I’ve received from you, girl, you are my queen.

Thank you honey and I love you.

Also to two dear friends and brothers of mine in the Lord; Bro. Jessley Robinson and Bro Dean Bryant. Thank you both so much for your hastiness in getting me to the hospital, to all the staff at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre thank you all so much for your medical support that I received from you while being in your care, to the medical staff of Trinity Air Ambulance thank you so much for flying in just for me so that I could receive further medical examination, to my church family at the Rock of Jesus Ministry, Safe Haven, Five Cays under the

By Phillip Simmons leadership of Bishop Bryant Cox and Pastor Charmaine Cox, along with God Almighty being the chief leader.

Thank you so much for all the prayers and support that my family and I have received from you, we really do appreciate it and we know that God has a blessing in store for you; it is just a matter of Him releasing it.

To the entire Christian community, thanks for your prayers and your support in which ever way it has been shown to my wife and I, we really do appreciate every moment of it. Thanks to everyone.

It is in times like these we ponder in our hearts whether the Lord is on our side or not? There is a reason for me opening my colum with a praise to Almighty God, giving him thanks for His mercy and His grace.

I feel as if I owe it to my reading audience to brief them about something that happened to me this

year.

I suffered a cardiac arrest on July 9 2010; it was not a heart attack.

You see when God Almighty has his hands on your life, no man or no woman can pluck you out of His hands.

I did have a sudden death for a brief moment. You see God is the giver of life and He is the one who takes life away.

To my valuable readers, to put it all in one nutshell, I am doing fine.

Now you know that it was very challenging for me to write this but I saved this for this moment the year is almost closing.

I give God Almighty all the praise and all the honour for what He has done and what He is about to do, and so I said to Him recently: “Lord whatever you are doing in this season don’t do it without me.”

Now I know some believers might be a bit fearful to say that but you need not fear if the Lord is on your side.

Please allow me in closing to say a big thank you again to God Almighty and to everyone who prayed or call when I was in hospital in Miami.

But please allow me to end how I began from Psalm 118:1: Oh give thanks unto the Lord for He is good, because His mercy endureth forever.

Christmas comes early for youngsters at Oseta Jolly Don’t use wrapping paper

WRAP gifts in brown paper bags, old newspapers or magazines.

Use the cartoon section for brighter colours.

If you’re willing to have a little fun, gather scraps of paper and tape, glue, foil, cardboard from cereal boxes, scraps of materials, bubble wrap, you name it, and glue it all to the side of the box.

It’s a great way to recycle materials, save money and put a smile on the recipient’s face.

WITH Christmas being the time for giving, it’s Lime that has been leading the way.

Staff at the telecommunications provider donned their Santa hats to hand out gifts at their adopted TCI school.

More than 500 pupils at the Oseta Jolly Primary School in Provo received presents, as did teachers and office staff.

Delighted principal, Rachel Handfield, said: “The family at

Oseta Jolly Primary welcomes our sponsor Lime and we are very happy to have had the Lime team at the school.

“The children are always excited when this time of the year comes around.”

Lime general manager, Drexwell Seymour, who helped distribute the presents, said the company was pleased to be spreading some festive joy.

“The Oseta Jolly Primary

School has over 500 students and it is one of the largest government primary schools in the nation.

“We adopted the school in 2005 and now this is our sixth year providing gifts.”

Lime, which supported the opening of the science labs earlier this year, also sponsored the school’s Christmas tree.

During their visit, staff were treated to a number of Christmas carols from the school choir.

December 22 - January 8, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT NATIONAL

Christmas shoppers told beware of card fees SHOPPERS are being warned to be vigilant of unscrupulous retailers who pass on unauthorised credit and debit card fees.

In the lead-up to Christmas – which comes with increased spending – the Bankers Association says consumers should be alert to merchants who charge people for paying with plastic.

The organisation is asking consumers to refuse to pay these fees and report such activity to the bank

concerned.

Association president Anton Faessler said: “As per the terms of standard merchant agreements, merchants may not charge the cardholder an additional fee or impose any limits on the cardholder for using their credit/debit card as a form of payment.

“We ask the public not to pay such fees and to report such activity to the bank providing the service to the merchant.

“Any merchant committing

any of the actions above is in breach of contract and risks having their merchant services terminated.”

Copies of merchant agreements are available at bank branches.

He said credit and debit card transactions can reduce both cash handling costs and risks associated with carrying cash.

But using plastic has also been shown to lead to increased sales as customers are not limited to the amount of cash on their person.

Chantay (Channy) Lightbourne

and t n e m e g a The man anada C h lt a e h r e staff of Int wish o t e k li ld TC wou erry m y r e v a e everyon and y h lt a e h a and Christmas year. w e n s u o r prospe rk. , Grand Tu les. e tr n e C l a ic ia Providenc Town Med Cockburn all Medical Centre, Cheshire H

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT

With a world of warm wishes To our good friends everywhere!

We really appreciate you and we thank you for including us in your travels this past year and look forward to serving you again soon.

Provo Travel Ltd. P.O. Box 296, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands.

Tel: 649-946-4035. Email: provotravel@tciway.tc

December 22 - January 8, 2011

December 22 - January 8, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT

December 22 - January 8, 2011

NATIONAL

PDM leader calls for royal holiday

Students slam dunk for charity

ISLANDERS can look forward to an extra day’s vacation next year if Doug Parnell gets his way.

The PDM leader is calling for a public holiday to celebrate the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

The royal couple, both 28, got engaged while on holiday in Kenya in October and will tie the knot on Friday April 29.

By Paul Baker

Water bill defaulters told ‘pay up’ GRAND Turk Islanders who owe money for water bills are being warned they face disconnection.

The water department is reminding customers that the arrears recovery campaign, aimed at collecting all funds owed up to June 30 2010, is ongoing.

Customers can collect their bills from the office located at the Ministry of Works building, Church Folly, to settle all outstanding accounts.

People in a payment agreement are also reminded to pay their agreed installments to avoid being cut off. Those who have been disconnected already should visit the office to set up a payment plan.

Anyone with outstanding arrears up to June 30 who has not yet been disconnected faces being cut off without warning.

Customers can register disputes over money owed by contacting the department.

Parnell said: “Firstly I would like to send congratulations to the royal couple from both the PDM party and everybody here in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“Royal weddings don’t come along very often and this is sure to be a very special occasion and one that will be enjoyed by millions around the world.

“In the UK, a public holiday has been announced and I would urge the TCI interim Government to do the same here.

“I think, as a British overseas territory, Islanders should be given the opportunity to celebrate the occasion if they wish.

“The British royal family is much loved and respected here in the TCI and it’s nice to have something like this to look forward to.

“Prince William’s mother, Princess Diana, has a special place in the hearts of so many and therefore so does has her son.”

With the last royal visit having taken place in 1966 when the Queen and Prince Phillip toured Grand Turk and South Caicos aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, Parnell wants an official invitation to be extended to Prince William and his bride.

“We have waited a long time for a royal visit,” added Parnell, “and maybe this is the perfect opportunity.

“What better way for any newlyweds to spend their time than relaxing in the beautiful TCI. “I’m sure their honeymoon arrangements are already taken care of but I would like to see us extend an official invitation to the couple to visit in the near future.

“Certainly I will be extending that invitation on behalf of the PDM party and hopefully it’s something

CARING youngsters have been thinking of others this Christmas.

Students at the BWI Collegiate raised hundreds of dollars for the Cancer Society during a sponsored event at the school.

Pupils spent an hour of their day running, walking, skipping and playing basketball in support of those fighting the disease.

Organiser Maureen Jones said: “The idea was for students to do something for the hour and then be sponsored for the distance covered, the amount of skips or the number of baskets.

“It’s been a fabulous event and we have managed to raise a lot of money for a fantastic cause and I say a big thank you to all who took part and all who sponsored the students.”

The money, which is still to be counted, will be presented to the Cancer Society when the BWIC holds its next fundraiser on Valentine’s Day. “My family has been affected by cancer,” said student Denicia Cox, “and so this is a very important and worthy cause for me and I’m pleased to be helping to save people’s lives.”

Prince William and Kate Middleton are due to tie the knot in April.

that can be done at government level and with a degree of real conviction.

“Not only would we be proud to host such a visit, it would also act as a perfect opportunity to show off our wonderful Islands which would be a massive boost for tourism and our economy in general.”

The royal family and the Middletons will pay for the wedding itself but the British taxpayer will

meet the cost of extra security and transport.

It will take place at Westminster Abbey, a venue that has hosted the weddings of the Queen and Queen Mother and was the venue for Princess Diana’s funeral in 1997.

It’s expected the ceremony will be beamed live around the world, including here in the TCI which is five hours behind London.

Prison inmates undertake community projects GRAND Turk Prison has launched a community payback scheme giving offenders a chance to contribute to society by assisting with local projects.

The scheme has started with several clean up operations and the building of a wall at the salina next to the clock tower on Grand Turk.

Once these are completed inmates will then work on repairing the broken salt windmills on the capital

island.

The scheme is a joint initiative between the prison and the Government.

Prison chief Ian Sargent said: “I am extremely pleased the scheme has commenced and I appreciate the support our government partners have given.

“This project is more than renovation and landscaping. It fully supports our plan to give

opportunities for offenders to learn new skills and for the community to see that they are paying something worthwhile back to the community.

“The project allows us to do a detailed assessment of an offender’s abilities and how they can best be reintegrated into society.

“Providing positive work with measurable outcomes is key to ensuring offenders can prove they have a contribution to make.”

Islandcom staff awarded for dedication ISLANDCOM employees were full of cheer and festive spirit at the staff Christmas party where they were officially recognised for this year’s efforts.

The jovial gathering took place at Islandcom CEO Kate Bonner’s home which was decked out with all the seasonal merriment, particularly the delicious seasonal inspired meal served by Caicos Catering.

The staff was not only brought together to rejoice the festive season but also to reward members of the new Islandcom team since its 3G revamping earlier this year.

Awards presented were ‘Salesperson of the Year’ and overall ‘Employee of the Year’. Although all Islandcom staff members worked diligently in 2010, there were two employees that shone above the rest.

They were recognised for their dedication, attention to detail, extra hours and commitment.

Salesperson of the Year went to Emilio Seymour for his outstanding performance and sales track record which earned him a Blackberry

Torch as his reward.

Emilio started working with the company in April 2010 and is described as an integral part of the sales team, providing customers with exceptional customer service and support.

The company’s first ever Employee of the Year award was given to accounting assistant Kavita Chand. Her enthusiasm, dedication and contribution to Islandcom’s success this year was said to be unmatched.

Her many late nights at the office and hours spent crunching numbers were rewarded with recognition from her colleagues and a $500 cheque.

Kavita joined Islandcom in 2009 after graduating from the University of Tampa with a BSc in Accounting and Economics. She is also currently a candidate to become a certified public accountant.

As Kavita stepped up to accept her reward she received thunderous applause - a confirmation from her peers that she truly deserved the title.

Islanders scoop luxury cruise TWO lucky Islanders are starting the festive season with a bang after scooping a luxury cruise, courtesy of Scotiabank.

Rosenthal Gardiner, of North Caicos, and David Gillett, of Providenciales, were delighted to each win a sevennight voyage of a lifetime for two.

They are looking forward to setting sail aboard the Oasis of the Seas, taking in the sights and sounds of Labadee in Haiti and Maya and Cozumel in Mexico.

In addition, both will receive $500 cash to spend.

The winners were among numerous Islanders who took part in Scotiabank’s credit card campaign.

Customers were required to sign up online to participate.

Once this was done, every $50 spent using their credit card entitled them to one ballot in the contest.

Rise in forged cheques Accounting assistant Kavita Chand was delighted to be named Employee of the Year award.

She said: “I feel tremendously honoured to receive such a prestigious award. Hard work definitely pays off.”

Recognition was also given to Islandcom’s customer care team and sales representatives.

ISLANDERS are being warned of an upsurge in forged cheques handed in to Providenciales business outlets.

Police are urging business owners and the public to ascertain authorisation of any cheque before completing a transaction.

The announcement follows a spate of dodgy cheques being presented both for cash or as a form of payment.

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Chanuka celebration unites Jewish community JEWISH residents from all walks of life came together on Wednesday evening to celebrate the final day of the eight-day ‘Festival of Lights’.

It was a real family affair at the Regent Village conference room as young and old gathered to enjoy song and dance, light the eight-branched menorah candles, and eat delicious fried foods.

Organiser Rabbi Sholom Bluming – a visiting Chabbad rabbi - took a trip from New York especially for the event.

He explained that Chanuka or Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish holiday that celebrates the miraculous victory of the few over the many.

It commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt of the 2nd century BCE. Chanukah also propagates the universal message that ultimately good will prevail over evil, freedom over oppression and light over darkness.

“Hannukah is a holiday of courage, of redemption against oppression, and is an ancient ritual that communicates hope.”

Chanuka is observed every year, starting on the 25th day of Kislev according to the Hebrew calendar – this can be any time from late November to late December.

Read all about it in Grand Turk BOOK lovers are in for a treat in Grand Turk this week.

A literature sale is being held on the island with all proceeds going towards the rebuilding of the fire-ravaged Ona Glinton Primary School.

The book fair takes place on Wednesday December 22 from 9am to 6pm in Cee’s car park and is being hosted by the Learn and Lead Educational Center (LLEC).

“Radio Turks and Caicos has partnered with us on this event in order to help promote literacy in Grand Turk and support the Ona

Glinton Primary School rebuilding efforts,” said Yolande Robinson, LLEC’s educational consultant and international education distributor for scholastic.

“There are a number of other community members and businesses that are lending a hand too and we fully appreciate of everyone’s efforts.”

Scholastic publishes and distributes a number of book collections, individual titles, professional development resources, technology products and more for at homes, classrooms and libraries.

Traditionally the menorah is lit for at least a half hour after dark on each of the eight nights and special blessings are said.

After lighting the candles, singing Hanukkah songs is customary in many Jewish homes.

There are several songs associated with the festival of Hanukkah such as ‘Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel’ and ‘Chanukah, Oh Chanukah’.

Custom also dictates the eating of fried foods as the original miracle of the Hanukkah menorah involved the discovery of a small flask of pure olive oil used by the Jewish High Priest.

This small batch of olive oil was only supposed to last one day, and instead it lasted eight.

Potato pancakes and jam filled donuts are two of the most popular delicacies during the festival.

The message of Chanukah is bringing light, warmth and festivity into this world, the rabbi said.

More than 65 residents attended this Wednesday’s celebration, which kicked off with an introduction into the origins and customs of Chanuka

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS: Rabbi Bluming passed the flame to attendees who held their own candles as a symbol of unity

followed by a video of menorah lightings around the world.

Rabbi Bluming then lit the main menorah and passed the flame to attendees who held their own candles as a symbol of unity.

There were joyful songs and energetic dances, and plenty of food

and drink to be had.

Rabbi Bluming said the Chanuaka party brought a “sense of community and belonging” to the TCI. He added that he had received “unbelievable” feedback following the event from a number of delighted attendees.

Firms team up for festive fun TELECOMS firm Lime joined forces with Grace Bay Club resort and First Caribbean bank to bring festive cheer to primary school children in South and North Caicos.

Pupils and teachers from Iris Stubbs Primary, Hubert James Primary and Adelaide Oemler Primary were visited by a team of staff from the three companies.

Dr Carlton Mills, of the Grace Bay Resorts Foundation, said: “This is partnership in action. The team members from Lime, First Caribbean and Grace Bay Club have come to South Caicos and North Caicos to share with them during the holiday season.

“This demonstrates what can be done when companies work together

for the benefit of the community.”

The schools principals said the children were thrilled by the visit.

Lime boss Drexwell Seymour said: “The power of partnership is what these events were about.

“Lime Turks & Caicos is cognisant that we must make full use of the opportunities that exist to ensure that we reach out into the communities where we live and touch lives. That is what the season is all about.”

The three companies are also involved in maintaining the roundabout at the Market Place Junction in Providenciales.

The competition to guess ‘What’s in the box’ is still ongoing and people can send the email to whatsinabox@ gracebayresorts.com

Shoppers warned over recalled chicken salad TCI’S Environmental Health Department is warning consumers against purchasing a certain brand of canned chicken salad.

The United States Department of Agriculture has announced a recall of Bumble Bee Lunch on the Run Chicken Salad Lunch Kit. The package contains a 2.9ounce can of Bumble Bee Chicken Salad along with crackers, mixed fruit, a cookie and a spoon. The package label has a best by date of 07/11.

Also recalled are packages of Bumble Bee Chicken Salad with Crackers. This product has a best-by date of 01/12 or 02/12.

The cans are numbered P-169 inside the USDA mark of inspection and the lot code 0225XXQBC is printed on the package.

An Environmental Health Department spokesman said: “We recommending that consumers

avoid purchasing and eating these canned chicken salad products until further information is available regarding the safety of the products.

“We would also like to notify food distributors throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands that, with immediate effect, none of the products implicated in the recall should be dispensed for sale or be used in any way for human consumption.

“To date, there has been no case of illness linked to the implicated food in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“The Ministry of Health is however asking anyone who has consumed canned chicken salad products and is suffering from any signs or symptoms of an illness that may be related to the consumption of the recalled products, to report to the Turks and Caicos Medical Department or any medical officer.”

GIFT GIVING: Clement Howell High School students, principal Lloyd Fearon with Beaches PR manager Elanor Finfin and Sandals Foundation volunteers

Christmas joy for 1,600 children CHRISTMAS came early for more than 1,600 children at two government schools this week as the Sandals Foundation treated students for the holidays.

Members of the local philanthropic arm of Beaches visited newly adopted Clement Howell High School and the Enid Capron Primary bringing plenty of gifts and goodies to hundreds of students.

The mid-week festivities offered an array of delicious food and drink and saw a large crowd which included 1,053 students and 68 teachers from Clement Howell, the largest high school in the TCI and another 503 students at Enid Capron Primary School.

The Sandals Foundation has been working tirelessly throughout the year collaborating with travel partners to collect hundreds of toys for the annual ‘Holiday Toy Drive’.

In addition to the donated toys, the foundation also purchased additional toys to ensure that every student of the sponsored schools receives a Christmas gift.

Beaches public relations manager Elanor Finfin, who was on hand at the gift-giving, said: “It’s a wonderful feeling to be able to bring smiles to the faces of so many children this Christmas.

“Not only were we able to bring a fun-filled Christmas party and holiday treats to students of our sponsored schools, but we were also able to ensure that every student received a gift courtesy of the Sandals Foundation.”

Principal of Clement Howell High School, Lloyd Fearon, also expressed his appreciation for Sandals Foundation’s successful holiday drive.

He said: “On behalf of the faculty and students of Clement Howell High we would like to thank the Sandals Foundation for creating a remarkable academic year for our school.

“For the first time in our school’s history we were able to treat the entire student body to a Christmas party inclusive of gifts.

“We are very grateful; the Christmas treats were certainly a wonderful end to a stressful school year.”

Rachel Taylor, principal of the Enid Capron Primary school, said the school was “really privileged and pleased” to have the Sandals Foundation share the holiday festivities with them.

“It is with great appreciation that the Enid Capron family expresses profound thanks to the Sandals Foundation for once again hosting

the annual Christmas party.

“The students look forward to these visits, especially the gifts that bring bright smiles to every student.”

In addition to the Christmas festivities, the Sandals Foundation also hosted a teachers’ appreciation Christmas dinner for Clement Howell staff at the resort’s grand ballroom.

At the dinner charity representatives outlined new initiatives for the upcoming 2011 school year while highlighting the progress made since the adoption.

Mr Fearon said it was the first time that teachers and the entire administration team and school’s security department were treated to a Christmas appreciation dinner and had not contributed to the cost.

The Sandals Foundation has already drafted a 12-month curriculum aimed at enhancing both sponsored schools.

The projects on the foundation’s agenda are to establish a sick bay at both schools and provide CPR training for teachers.

Other benefits will include fundraising for the commencement of the highly anticipated library building project and also the implementation of a breakfast feeding programme for under privileged students.

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December 22 - January 8, 2011

Comfort Suites Turks and Caicos SPECIAL HOLIDAY PACKAGE! Dec. 24, 2009 to Jan. 2 2010

“Only $299.40” 3-Nights Stay (taxes included) “Only $99.80 for each additional night” Rates are based on single or double occupancy Booking Window until December 23rd Reservations should be guaranteed with a credit card Grace Bay, Providenciales

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Come and spend your holidays In Comfort WITH US!

Season’s Greetings From Gilley’s Enterprises & Family. Wishing our Patrons, CoWorkers, Families and Friends all the best this holiday season. Have a very merry Christmas, and a prosperous New Year!”

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Seasons greetings From the Rt. Rev. Laish Z. Boyd, Sr., Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands OFTEN times, as human beings on the early journey, we do not feel as if we are getting what we want out of life.

If you were to ask 10 people or 100 people or 10,000 people what they yearn for most in their lives, what they deeply desire, you would probably get a lot of the same answers: happiness, peace of mind, a closer relationship with God, better family relationships, a peaceful home, a clear conscience, a good name, a higher degree of personal integrity, more respect of other people and better relationships with people in general.

These are all commendable goals, the kinds of things that we should all work towards and the kinds of things that do bring lasting peace.

But I’ll tell you something else about all of these things: they are all things that we individuals can do a lot to accomplish for ourselves.

We live in a TV, instantcoffee, microwave-meal, fast-food generation. We want the world to gratify us and to do it now, and we want to be served.

We human beings often look outside of self for answers, for satisfaction and for fulfilment. We like to blame other people for our unhappiness or unfulfillment: the Government, society, the culture, the times we live in, the economy, my family, my neighbours are all to blame, and I am just an innocent, helpless victim. Nonsense.

Beloved friends in Christ, we shape our lives and our own destiny.

What we get out of life is based on what we put in and how we respond to realities beyond our control.

All of the deep desires listed earlier are things that we can work on

in our lives for ourselves right inside of ourselves. No government can do these things for you. No culture or downturn in the economy can steal them from you.

Allow God, and God’s plan to control your life. Embrace the Bible’s teaching as your guide for living.

As the Epistle written says: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord” Colossians 3:16.

This Christmas, seek to take simple steps that bring lasting peace.

Put God first and foremost, His ways and His truth. Remember the biblical injunction: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” Matthew 6:33.

Make time to worship him in private and in public. Connection with the divine is priceless. We rob ourselves of our full humanity when we have no space to worship God. Lead your home, children, family or household along these lines. If you believe in something that is true and lasting, influence those around you accordingly.

Strive to do what is right. You’ll have less of a conscience problem afterwards. Doing what is right is difficult, but it is surely best in the long run.

When you make a mistake, admit it and seek to correct your mistake and/or to make amends for it. When you ignore or refuse to acknowledge your own error, it wounds your spirit terribly.

Honour and respect all people no matter who they are or where

Lime reaches out to elderly Islanders ELDERLY residents enjoyed Christmas festivities courtesy of telecoms provider Lime.

The firm hosted events in Grand Turk and Providenciales with gift items sent to North, Middle and South Caicos and Salt Cay to benefit each island’s senior citizens.

Lime general manager Drexwell Seymour said: “I believe that it is important to remember the senior citizens in our community because they have provided so much to this generation and this is Lime’s way of giving back and getting them out for a bit. We are so happy to do that.”

District Commissioner in Middle Caicos, Dottis Arthur, said: “Thanks so much to Lime for continuing to think of the senior citizens here. I am sure that they would be very grateful for the gifts.”

In South Caicos, the Soroptimist Club will distribute the presents at its annual event.

Club member Noreane Lightbourne said: “I would like to thank Lime for assisting us in being able to host this event by

providing the gifts. It is a tangible contribution that goes a long way and we are thankful.”

Community workers and Lime staff were responsible for spreading the joy in the other islands.

In Providenciales, senior citizens were treated to a play scripted by marketing manager Rachel Harvey.

Ms Harvey said: “With the tremendous team effort of Lime staff and a few friends, it went very well. The senior citizens were laughing and they thoroughly enjoyed themselves.”

Mr Seymour also joined in the fun by playing the role of ‘Dad’.

Meanwhile two TCI residents are celebrating thanks to Lime.

Amos Ogarro, from Provo, scooped an IGA shopping spree gift certificate, which he won in a special festive promotion, while Grand Turk resident, Lucinda Rae Brown, picked up a $1,000 voucher for Jai’s jewelers.

Mr Seymour said: “Lime said that we would help to bring some joy over the festive season and we are succeeding with that goal.”

they have come from. Everybody is somebody’s loved one, even if they may not be your loved one. And every person is loved and valued by God. Try to build up and to heal and to affirm wherever you go. Be a part of the solution and not a part of the problem.

Try to live in a way that others will be glad to have known you. Let even the stranger and the passing acquaintance be happy for the encounter with you.

Speak the truth in love. People may not be happy with you now, but they will respect you in the long run.

Always do the best you can – no more, no less.

Make time regularly for family, your own household and your immediate family, but also your relatives and friends.

Be a true friend to someone or some people. You don’t need money to do that. You only need to humbly and sincerely care.

These are things that you can do.

No government, no hard times, no society can take these things from you.

These are things which you do to build a life of integrity. These are things which you do to make your environment a better place. These are things which, at the end of the day, make us happy and fulfilled.

These things spring from within a person and when Christians do them, they make the love of Christ and the message of the Holy Gospel real and relevant in people’s lives.

If you touch enough lives, you eventually touch the neighbourhood, the island and even the nation.

This Christmas you will probably do lots of different activities: shop, give gifts, go to parties, share in family gatherings, go to Junkanoo, attend concerts and productions, etc.

But I implore you to go to church – that’s right, find yourself in the house of God. We can commune with God anywhere, but we have to admit that there is something special about holy ground and God’s house.

And don’t stop there. Don’t just go to church. Also commit yourself to doing those things that governments and hard times cannot take from you, all of the things which I have talked about which “make for peace and build up the common life”.

This is the good tidings of great joy that Luke talks about when the angels spoke to the shepherds in the field abiding (Hymn 55 (A & M) verse 5.

Forth from His Father to the world He goes, Back to the Father’s face His way regains, Far down to souls beneath His glory shows, Again at God’s right hand victorious reigns.

Have a blessed Christmas season and a happy new year!

Grand Turk residents asked to help 911 REPRESENTATIVES from 911 will be out in force in Grand Turk this weekend.

Officers will be calling door to door to gather data for the street naming project.

They will also continue the registration of all residents on island and the numbering of all buildings.

Residents are asked to cooperate and are reminded that anyone knocking on their door claiming to be a representative of 911 must provide official identification.

A 911 spokesman said:

“It should be noted that the registration process takes only a few minutes and representatives do not have to enter the home to complete the form.

“While residents are not obligated to open their doors to strangers and should call the police station on Grand Turk if they are suspicious of anyone who approaches them, their support of this project is encouraged.

“The law now requires that all streets be named and all buildings be numbered and said number must be displayed.”

New date for taxi bill debate

DRAFT legislation dealing with the licensing and operating of public service vehicles is due to go before the advisory council next month.

The proposed new laws have been drawn up by the Ministry of Home Affairs following detailed consultation with relevant stakeholders, including taxi associations and hotel operators.

The documents had been due to go before the advisory council for approval at its last sitting and forwarded to the consultative forum for debate. However, the process was

unavoidably delayed.

“We thank all concerned for their patience in resolving this matter,” said a spokesman for the Ministry.

“We urge stakeholders to remain patient pending introduction of the new legislation and to continue to work together in the best interests of the industry and our economy.

“The new legislation will bring order to the transport industry which we recognise has been in need of a new legal platform for very many years.”

Cinderella (Millie Twigg) and Rockerfella (Rahim Higgs) take to the school stage.

Crowd have a ball at Provo Primary panto

By Paul Baker SHOUTS of ‘behind you’ and ‘oh no he didn’t’ have been echoing around Provo Primary School.

Youngsters held their Christmas pantomime in front of huge crowds of parents, family members and invited guests.

This year’s production, Cinderella Rockerfella, featured years one to six and was packed full of songs, laughter and lots of audience participation.

Principal Sian Jones said: “It’s been another fantastic pantomime and I would like to congratulate all the children for a fabulous show.

“Also, a big thanks to all the teachers and volunteers for all their hard work and to everyone who came out and supported us.”

Meanwhile, not to be outdone, Provo Primary’s pre-school and junior kindergarten pupils also thrilled the crowds with their production, Busy Busy Bethlehem.

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Wintley Phipps concert is a runaway success

By Rebecca Bird GRAMMY nominated gospel singer Wintley Phipps captured the hearts of the audience during a breathtaking one off concert at Brayton Hall recently.

The deep-voiced sensation, who has performed sellout gigs across the globe, headlined a Christmas concert in Providenciales on December 11 to raise cash for local causes.

Saturday’s event also marked the public launch of the Turks and Caicos Star Foundation which aims to gather $1m every year for local charities.

Trinidadian-born Wintley Phipps showed why he has been selected to sing for such greats as President Barack Obama, Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela and Oprah Winfrey when he took to the stage this weekend.

Audience members let out a simultaneous gasp as his voice filled the hall during the first few notes.

After that things only got better as he made his way through some of his classic musical numbers and Christmas tunes.

Seventh Day Adventist minister Wintley Phipps, 55, even sang his celebrated rendition of ‘Amazing Grace’, a version which, he explained, has received more than eight million hits on YouTube.

Towards the end of the remarkable concert audience members were singing along as one and he jokingly referred to them as ‘The Turks and Caicos Mass Choir’.

During the final song close to 200 attendees were on their feet, holding hands and swaying to the music in a show of appreciation.

Following the concert Mr

Phipps walked straight into the audience where he spoke to fans and signed autographs.

Wintley Phipps has been the featured speaker and performer for scores of prominent events around the world.

He was nominated for a Grammy Award in 1988 and 1989 and wrote a book called ‘The power of a dream’ in 1996.

In 1998, Phipps founded and created the US Dream Academy, a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing a values-based, interactive, tutorial and remedial education, to at-risk children.

And in 2007, by special request of Oprah Winfrey, he delivered an inspirational address and prayer for the opening of the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa.

In 2009, he sang ‘Amazing Grace’ for the 56th Presidential Inaugural Prayer Service attended by President Barack and First Lady Michelle Obama and Vice President Joseph and Dr Jill Biden at the Washington National Cathedral.

As a result of the concert, which reached five million viewers, Mr Phipps attracted an entire new generation of fans.

All proceeds from the recent concert will go directly to the Turks and Caicos Star Foundation before being disseminated to a number of local charities.

The Turks and Caicos Star Foundation and its sister, the Turks and Caicos Foundation, came about as the result of one woman’s passion for the TCI and the preservation of its people and culture.

Charlotte D’Arcy Donaldson first came to the TCI on vacation in 1986 and

Declaration forms DATES have been announced for people required to hand declaration forms in to the secretary to the Integrity Commission.

Forms will be collected at the Integrity Commissions Office in Waterloo Plaza,

Waterloo Road, Grand Turk, on December 29 and 31 and at the Supreme Court office in Leeward Highway, Providenciales, on December 30.

Call the secretary on 232 1738 for more information.

Immigration procedures made easier for permit applicants EMPLOYMENT visas will no longer be required by those coming to work in the TCI. Immigration has scrapped the requirement, so long as applicants have approved work or residence permits.

Government officials admit that asking for employment visas was both a “costly” and “time consuming” practice, and that the new rules will “help streamline and strengthen immigration procedures and remove an unnecessary level of bureaucracy”.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Border Control and Labour, Clara Gardiner, explained: “The Ministry and the Immigration Board have reviewed the current practice and decided that the employment visa was not necessary for the proper administration of the immigration system.

“We are keen to make the procedures less burdensome on the people seeking permits or trying to have them endorsed, even while we seek to protect the integrity of the system.”

She added: “This new approach meets the requirements of the law.”

The procedures for obtaining the permits or endorsements are now covered under the assessment carried out by the Immigration Board.

has lived here part time since 2000.

Her many years in the country have given her an understanding of the external assistance the islands require.

The aim of the foundations is to target visitors and allow

them to donate to help causes close to their hearts on the islands.

“The umbrella concept of having two foundations to collect funds will allow the other TCI organisations to spend more time operating,

rather than having to concentrate on fundraising,” she explained.

For more details on the Star Foundation visit www. turksandcaicosstarfoundation. org On the website local

foundations can express their need for assistance and people can also make online donations.

It is up to the donator where their funds go – whether it is to arts, health, wildlife, education, or the environment.

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Because the goodwill of those we serve is the foundation of our success it's a real pleasure at this holiday time to say "Thank You" as we wish you a full year of happiness and prosperity.

From the Management and Staff of:

With Appreciation at the Holidays With best wishes from our family to yours for a most memorable, magical holiday season.

Thanks for giving us so much to celebrate this year!

Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales

Telephone: 946-4898

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Daisy Mullins, 4

Kelsea Mohnssen, 8

Kaidan Bobb, 4

Isabelle Philips, 8

Weekly News card contest sparks creativity

By Paul Baker BUDDING artists have been demonstrating their skills in the Weekly News Christmas Card Competition.

We asked primary school children across the country to design festive cards with a TCI theme.

The response was fantastic with scores of talented youngsters submitting their entries.

Weekly News publisher, W. Blythe Duncanson, said: “We have had an amazing response and I’d like to thank all the children who took the time to design a card. We have some very artistic young people in the Islands and I have been very impressed.

“All the cards are colourful, original and full of festive cheer.

Well done everyone.”

A team of judges sat down to sift through the entries and they came up with what they felt were the best six cards.

The successful designers were Emilio Rias, 8, Kelsea Mohnssen, 8, Daisy Mullins, 4, Isabelle Philips, 8, Malachi Malcolm, 8, and Kaidan Bobb, 4.

Their prize includes art goodies along with having their designs printed in the Weekly News.

“They were all winners,” added Mr Duncanson. “Everyone who entered produced some marvellous cards.”

Malachi Malcolm, 8

Emilio Rias, 8

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Regional News

Jamaicans using patois version of Bible’s Luke KINGSTON, Jamaica (AP) — During Sunday church services and private celebrations in Jamaica, Christmas week prayers are being flavoured with the first patois version of a familiar biblical account of Jesus’ birth.

Based on the conviction that Scripture is best understood in a person’s spoken tongue, the Caribbean island’s bible society has started a new holiday tradition with audio and written versions of the Gospel of Luke in patois, or Creole — Jamaica’s unofficial language.

Proponents of the patois versions of Luke argue that since many Jamaicans have difficulty understanding standard English, it is wrong to have the holy book of this overwhelmingly Christian nation only in a “foreign” tongue. A patois translation of the entire New Testament is expected in August 2012, to coincide with the 50th anniversary of Jamaica’s independence.

“The Scriptures have the greatest impact when you hear it in your mother tongue. So this translation

to Creole is affirming the Jamaican speaker’s language, and it is very, very powerful,” said the Rev. Courtney Stewart, general secretary of the Bible Society of the West Indies.

Last week, a local radio station broadcast the patois renditions of Luke every morning, and its Nativity story translation is popping up at Christmas parties. Members of a church in Spanish Town, just west of Kingston, have even started to memorise it.

Most of the words in Jamaican patois, like other English Caribbean patois, are English words filtered through a distinct phonetic system with fewer vowels and different consonant sounds. Patois is written phonetically to approximate these differences. Thus, in patois, the English “girl” becomes “gyal.”

In the depiction of the Angel Gabriel’s visit to the Virgin Mary which foretold the birth of Jesus, the New King James Bible’s version of Luke reads, “And having come in, the angel said to her, ‘Rejoice, highly

wishes

favoured one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women.’”

In the patois version, it becomes, “Di ienjel go tu Mieri an se tu ar se, ‘Mieri, mi av nyuuz we a go mek yu wel api. Gad riili riili bles yu an im a waak wid yu aal di taim.’”

Lloyd Millen, pastor of the Cumberland Community Church in Portmore, said his congregants have been “animated and so excited” when they hear him preach from the Gospel of Luke in their spoken language.

“People feel liberated to hear the Bible this way. They say they are able to visualise it better,” Millen said.

Nearly all Jamaicans, regardless of class, speak patois — a mixture of English and West African tongues spoken by slaves who were brought to this Caribbean island by European colonisers. It rarely exists in written form.

Some Anglophiles on the island call patois “lazy English” and dismiss it as a vernacular.

On a page of the Jamaica Gleaner’s Web site, a critic named Jo Bent said, “Patois is not an official language, it has no dictionary, are we to further confuse our youths when most have not mastered English yet?”

The bible society has launched a public education campaign to win over skeptics in Jamaica.

“Many people are skeptical about the bible translation work until they actually hear it. Then they cease being resistant,” said Hubert Devonish, a linguistics professor at the University of the West Indies.

French adoptive families to welcome more than 300 Haitian children

Congratulations

Samantha and Hudson CONGRATULATIONS to our reporter Samantha (nee Dash) and Hudson Rigby on their marriage from all of us at the Weekly News.

We wish you all the very best as you begin your new life together.

Send your special occasion to: Rebecca Bird, Weekly News, Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, PO Box 52, Providenciales or email to rebecca-bird@hotmail.com. Free of Charge!

Please limit your messages to 150 words.

PARIS (AP) — More than 300 Haitian children are preparing to fly to Paris with their new French adoptive families, just in time for the holidays.

French Foreign Minister Michele Alliot-Marie said Saturday that 318 children had been cleared for adoption and were being allowed to leave the Caribbean country, which is still reeling from a January earthquake and now experiencing a deadly cholera epidemic.

Authorities chartered two airplanes so French families can pick up the children. The flights will leave Paris on Tuesday and Thursday, Alliot-Marie said in a statement.

The French Embassy in Port-au-Prince — with support from Haitian authorities and the U.N. mission — will bring the children to meet the families before they all head to the airport, the minister’s statement said.

On arrival in France, the families will be met by doctors and psychologists, along with administrators to help families through the technicalities of the adoption process.

International adoption is a sensitive subject in Haiti, and several incidents since the earthquake have heightened Haitian authorities’ concerns.

December 22 - January 8, 2011

DR government to launch education campaign as cholera cases increase SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP) — Authorities in the Dominican Republic are launching a new education campaign to prevent the spread of cholera as the number of cases keeps rising.

Health officials have confirmed a total of 46 cases in the country.

Most have occurred in towns located near the border with Haiti, where a

cholera epidemic has killed 2,400 people. The two countries share the island of Hispaniola.

Health officials worry cholera is creeping toward the capital of Santo Domingo, with already one case reported nearby.

The Ministry of Health says officials on Tuesday will go doorto-door across the country to teach people how to prevent infection.

The Haitian election results might not be known for a while, but skeptics are afraid that this delay might have implications for the locals, who already think that the elections were fraudulent.

HAITI:

OAS asks president to delay announcement of election results pending experts’ review PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — The Organisation of American States has asked Haitian President Rene Preval to delay announcing election results until an international panel of experts can review the vote, officials said Saturday.

Final results from the Nov. 28 first round — showing which of the top three quarreling candidates would go on to a January runoff — were expected Monday.

Holding off an announcement would postpone conflicts between supporters, which resulted in riots and deadly clashes this month. But

the panel of up to five electoral, legal and information-technology experts has not even been formed, and waiting for its review could drag into the new year.

OAS chief Jose Miguel Insulza asked Preval for the delay.

Preval agreed to submit the request to Haiti’s provisional electoral council after “intense discussions” between the OAS, electoral officials, business leaders, observers, the head of the U.N. peacekeeping mission, and resident ambassadors in Haiti, the OAS said in a statement.

Human rights activists hang a sign on the wall of the state prosecutors office to protest the killing of Marisela Escobedo Ortiz in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, Friday Dec. 17, 2010.

Mexico outraged by killing of anti-crime crusader CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico (AP) — Anger over Mexico’s creaky, inefficient justice system boiled over after a mother who waged a two-year battle to bring her daughter’s killer to justice was herself shot to death, possibly by the same man suspected of murdering the teenager.

A security video recording shows masked men pulling up in a car in front of the governor’s office in the northern city of Chihuahua.

One appeared to exchange words with anti-crime crusader Marisela Escobedo Ortiz, who was holding a

vigil outside.

She tried to flee by running across the street, but the gunman chased her down and shot her in the head late Thursday, said Jorge Gonzalez, special state prosecutor for crime prevention.

Escobedo was taken by ambulance to a hospital, where she died within minutes.

On Friday, a group of demonstrators gathered outside the Interior Department in Mexico City to protest the killing, briefly scuffling with police while chanting “Not one more death!”

December 22 - January 8, 2011

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT

Twelve men arrested in suspected UK terrorism plot LONDON (AP) — British police on Monday arrested a dozen men suspected of plotting a large-scale terror attack — the biggest antiterrorist sweep since April 2009, when 12 men were detained over an alleged al-Qaida bomb plot in the northern city of Manchester.

Police who swooped in on the men’s houses early in the morning were unarmed, suggesting any planned attack was not imminent.

The men were arrested in London, the Welsh city of Cardiff and the English cities of Birmingham and Stoke-on-Trent.

The plot was directed at targets inside the United Kingdom but counterterrorism officials declined to give more details.

“The operation is in its early stages so we are unable to go into detail at this time,” said John Yates, Britain’s senior counterterrorism police officer.

Officers said the men range in age from 17 to 28. Police have up to 28 days to question them before they must be charged or released.

A British security official, speaking on condition of

anonymity because of the sensitivity of his work, said the arrests were not thought to be part of any planned holiday season attack. Iraqi officials had claimed last week that captured insurgents believed a recent suicide bombing in Stockholm was part of a series of planned attacks during the Christmas season.

Those claims were rejected by both British and German officials, who insisted there are no specific threats to their countries over the festive period.

In October, the U.S. State Department advised American citizens living or traveling in Europe to be wary amid reports that terrorists were planning attacks on a European city.

Some of the details of a Mumbai-style shooting spree plot directed at cities in Britain, France or Germany came from Ahmed Siddiqui, a German citizen of Afghan descent who was captured by U.S. troops in Afghanistan in July. More than 170 people were killed during an attack in the Indian city of Mumbai in 2008.

Another government official on Monday downplayed reports that the latest raids

in Britain were part of larger terror concerns across Europe.

“Although serious, we believe this raid may have been a one-off and not necessarily related to larger European terror plot concerns,” said the official who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media.

Europe has been the target of numerous terror plots by Islamist militants.

The deadliest was the 2004 Madrid train bombings, when shrapnel-filled bombs exploded, killing 191 people and wounding about 1,800.

A year later, suicide bombers killed 52 rush-hour commuters in London aboard three subway trains and a bus.

In 2006, U.S. and British intelligence officials thwarted one of the largest plots yet, a plan to explode nearly a dozen trans-Atlantic airliners.

British police said Monday’s raids and the number of arrests across the U.K. showed that the suspects were planning something big.

“This is a large scale, preplanned and intelligence-led operation involving several forces,” Yates said.

West decries flaws, violence in Belarus election MINSK, Belarus (AP) — International observers and Western governments accused Belarus’ strongman leader of using fraud and violence to remain in power after more than 16 years of repressive rule, saying Monday that President Alexander Lukashenko’s reelection had been seriously flawed.

The country’s election commission declared that Lukashenko got almost 80 percent of the vote in a preliminary count, handing him a fourth term in office.

But the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe said the count in Sunday’s vote was “bad or very bad” in half the country’s precincts. It also strongly criticised the violent dispersal by riot police of a postelection protest rally. U.S. and European leaders criticised Lukashenko for a wave of violence directed at rival presidential candidates and their supporters in the hours after the election.

Lukashenko’s continuing grip on power makes Belarus one of the last relics of Sovietstyle dictatorship, a nation of 10 million on the edge of Europe with overwhelming state control of politics, industry and media. The country’s continuing repression has been an embarrassment to the European Union, which offered three billion euros ($3.9 billion) in aid to Belarus if the elections were judged to be free and fair.

Despair and anger gripped

Presidential candidate Vladimir Neklyaev gets help as he was beaten before an opposition rally in Minsk, Berlarus, early Monday, Dec. 20, 2010.

many in the country on Monday.

“Lawlessness, dictatorship — what else can you call this?” said Natalia Pohodnya, waiting in the snow outside a Minsk jail where her son was being held after participating in a demonstration. “They are beating our kids!”

There were no signs of imminent unrest in Minsk’s downtown of wide streets lined with Stalin-era buildings. The riot police had vanished by dawn.

The run-up to the election had raised a glimmer of hope that Lukashenko was relaxing his grip. The number of candidates was unprecedented, they were allowed comparative freedom to campaign and were even allotted time for debates on state media. Belarus had also passed some reforms in its election code.

But evidence of fraud before and during Sundays’ vote drove tens of thousands

of protesters into the streets at night to denounce alleged irregularities. Helmeted riot police bearing shields and swinging truncheons dispersed the protesters from near the main government building after some in the crowd broke windows and doors.

Police also arrested seven of the nine candidates opposing Lukashenko.

“A positive assessment of this election isn’t possible,” said the OSCE observer mission’s head, Geert-Hinrich Ahrens.

One of the top opposition candidates, Vladimir Neklyayev, was beaten in a clash with government forces as he tried to lead a column of supporters to the protest.

He was taken to a hospital, but his aide said seven men in civilian clothing later wrapped Neklyayev in a blanket on his hospital bed and carried him away as his wife screamed.

29

30

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT

December 22 - January 8, 2011

December 22 - January 8, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT

May Faith be Your Guide And may our gratitude and best wishes follow.

Merry Christmas and many thanks!

Nell's Gift Shop Leeward Highway. Providenciales. Tel: 941-3228

VISIT OUR CHILDREN SHOP FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR KIDS

31

32

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS CHRISTMAS SUPPLEMENT

December 22 - January 8, 2011

Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate

weeklylistings

Great Rate // ► $1 per word minimum 15 words ► $5 for additional graphic Professional Building For Rent

for sale

Good location, near NIB and Courts On Leeward Highway Fully furnished, ready to move in (3,000 sq feet) Ideal for a lawyer, accountant, doctor or architect Tel: 946-4664, 946-4894

Apartment for rent High quality decorative

curtain rails for sale 4 X 1.5m long plus 3 extendable rails 28-48 inches long Call 245 6620

$850 per month One bedroom Richmond Hills Contact 946-4894

Need Help Looking for that Perfect Apartment ?? Call 941-4100 or 2434921. We can assist in finding you Short or Long Term Rentals. Don’t see exactly what you’re looking to Rent. Contact us, we have others!!!

One Bedroom

Leeward Palms House 1 bath 1 bedroom Fully Furnished/ Washer & Dryer Asking Price $850 p/m

Wedding Gown for Sale Size 18W champagne & Beige wedding Dress.

Worn once in good condition Asking $800.00. Call 241-2000

realty

Chalk Sound , Ocean View (Located Before Silly Creek Area) 1 bed 1.5 bath Fully Furnished/ Wrap around deck/ VerySpacious/Washer & Dryer Asking Price $1000 *********************** Royal Diamond Villa 1 bed 1 bath with Balcony Fully Furnished / Ready to Move-in Asking Price $1000 p/m *************************** The Venetian 1 bed 1 bath Fully Furnished/ Upstairs/ Downstairs unit/ Onsite Pool Asking Price: $1200 p/m **************************** GREAT DEAL !!!!

Leeward Palms 1 bed 1 bath duplex Fully Furnished /Washer Asking Price $1300 p/m ALL Utilities Included !!! ****************************** Venetian Road Apartment 1 bed 1 bath Fully Furnished/Very Spacious

Asking Price $1250 p/m (Slightly Negotiable) **************************** GRACEBAY STEAL!!!

Trade winds Condo Hotel, Gracebay 1 bed 1 bath Fully Furnished /Washer & Dryer/End Unit Facing Pool/ Asking Price $1200 p/m ************************** TWO BEDROOMS Chalk Sound, Water Front 2 Bed 2 Bath Fully Furnished REDUCED Asking Price $1700 p/m (Negotiable) ************************* Real Steal !!Leeward Palms 2 bedroom 2 baths Fully Furnished Asking Price $1100 p/m **************************** Chalk Sound, Ocean View (Located Before Silly Creek Area) 2 Bed 2 Bath Fully Furnished/Very Spacious/Wrap around Deck Asking Price $1650 p/m ****************************** Grace Bay Townhome -End Unit ( 3 minutes from IGA Gourmet) 2 bedrooms 2 ½ Bath/ Nicely Furnished/Screened Porch with Direct Pool Access Asking Price $ 2400 p/m Juba Sound Apartments Located in Lovely Living Environment!!

2 bed 2 bath Nicely Furnished Asking Price $1400 ************************** Grace Bay Condo Grandview 3rd Floor unit 3 bedroom 3 baths Nicely Furnished Call for More details !!! *************************** The Venetian 2 bedroom 2 bath Fully furnished / Fully Equipped Kitchen/Pool Asking Price $ 1800 p/m ************************** Sunview Town Homes, Grace Bay Road 2 Bed 2.5 Bath with Pool Asking Price $1,600/per month ************************* Long Bay Beach Front 2 bed 1 bath w/ Loft Fully Furnished/ Screened Deck facing Beach Asking $2000 p/m

December 22 - January 8, 2011

*********************** Ocean Club Plaza, 2nd Floor Unit, Grace Bay 2 Bed 2.5 Bath, with Pool/Fully Equipped Kitchen Asking Price $2,000/per month ************************* Leeward Landings Townhome 2 bedroom 2 ½ bath Fully Furnished Asking Price $1600 ************************** Long Bay Apartments 2 bed 1 bath Fully Furnished/Washer & Dryer Asking Price $1200 p/m Three- Four Bedrooms ************************* MUST SEEE !!!! Beautiful Home Discovery Bay Canal Front Home 3 bedroom 2.5 bath Spacious Beautifully Furnished/ Fully Equipped kitchen /52” Plasma Televisions Asking Price $2300 p/m Negotiable ************************* Juba Sound Home 3 Bed 2.5 Bath Ocean View, Terrace, Asking Price $2200 REDUCED !! ************************* Low Cost Home, Blue Hills 3 Bed 2 Baths Furnished Central AC/ Washer & Dryer/Dishwasher Asking Price $1,350/per month ************************* Leeward Canal Front Home 4 bedrooms 3.5 baths Spacious/Nicely Furnished Asking Price $4000 p/m

vehicles for sale Mac Motors

New Vehicles with Factory Warranty; 2009 FIAT 500 Sport BZ 1.2 2Dr Auto (Bossa Nova White) *248033* - 29,700. 2009 FIAT Panda Dynamic 1.2 Auto (New Orleans Blue) *323248* - 22,900. 2009 FIAT Grande Punto 1.4 Auto (Ambient White) *466162* - 26,500. 2009 FIAT Bravo Dynamic 1.4 Auto (Steel Grey) *196447* - 35,500. 2008 Land Rover Discovery III SE TDV6 (Keswick) *469067* - 68,000. 2008 Dodge Caliber SXT Sport App. 2.0L (Surf Blue) *599952* - 27,000. 2009 Dodge Journey SXT FWD 3.5L (Silver Steel) *535698* - 37,000. 2009 Dodge Durango 4x2 SLT 4.7L V8 (Silver) *703733* - 40,000. 2009 Jeep Patriot Sport 4x2 (White) *186265* - 32,000.

2009 Dodge Dakota SLT 4x4 (Deep Water Blue) *765339* - 35,000.

Certified used vehicles;

2006 Jaguar X-Type Estate Manual Trans, 2.0L Diesel, AVALABLE FOR LEASE - 39,000. 2006 Land Rover Freelander TD4 Atacama Sand 22,500. 2007 Dodge Ram Mega Cab 5.7L V8 4x4 Hemi (Red) Very LOW MILES!!! - 41,000. 2008 Dodge

Sales Agent

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

Ram Sport 1500 5.7L V8 Hemi 4x2 (Sunburst) - 36,500

Mac Motors

FULLY FRANCHISED DEALER FOR LAND ROVER, JAGUAR, DODGE, JEEP, CHRYSLER & FIAT SALES / WARRANTY* / SERVICE / DIAGNOSTICS / BODY REPAIRS FREE First Service with New Vehicles Finance available for qualified buyers *Land Rover / Jaguar : 3 Years Factory Warranty *Dodge / Jeep / Chrysler : 2 Years Factory Warranty *Used : 3 Months Warranty on 'Certified Used Vehicle’

for sale 10m 2010 Torch is for sale for $950.

The kite is in very good condition with only one small tear, which was repaired.

Also selling 130cm Momentum for $400.

It comes with new foot-pads and fins.

The board has some scrapes on the bottom. Contact 342-2941

Gift Sets for men and women Designer Vases on display.

For more information, call us at 6499464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@ yahoo.com ************************ Fresh and Silk flower Arrangements available for centerpieces And decorations in all sizes ************************* Customized Gift Baskets for her and him…tell us what You want and we’ll do it for you! ************************* Decors and flowers for wedding from ceremony to Personal flowers and all through the reception ************************* Sympathy Wreath and Casket Sprays available in different sizes *************************** Inspirational Gift Items and baskets in different designs On display For more information, call us at 6499464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com

GRANTS PETROLEUM

services Earn money now.

Sell Avon 346-1434 / 246-1434

The Flower Girl Bed and Bath Shop Bed and bath sets and Lingeries For more information, call us at 649-9464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com ******************************** We now accept Upholstery jobs.

Have your cushions re-covered at excellent prices Drape fabrics are also in stock For more information, call us at 6499464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@ yahoo.com The Flower Girl Bouquets, Mix and Tropical Arrangements for all occasions Price ranges from $15.00 and up For more information and reservation, call us at 649-9464894 or 6492313788, You may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com *********************** Easter Baskets and Easter Dresses available For more information, call us at 649-9464894 or 6492313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com ********************** Cards for all occasions,

Is looking for 2

Pump Attendants

Must be able to work weekends and nights.

Salaries starting at $5.00 per hour.

Send resumes to P.O. Box 477 Providenciales

Call today to advertise

946-4664 OR EMAIL

tcnews@tciway.tc

Butler required

@@Duties include all aspects of costumer service, car rental sales and dealing with e-mail

@@ The successful candidate must have a minimum of 5 years related experience. @@ Must be multi-lingual, English is a must. @@ Task includes: light household chores, maintenance, driving vehicle, picking up provisions. @@ Must be pleasant and sociable. @@ Pay commensurate with experience

@@Correspondence pertaining to car reservations. @@To work 5 days per week including weekends and holidays.

Salary is commensurate with experience.

Contact Telephone: 946-5300

Send resumes to plspropertymanagement@gmail.com 6172

DARON NAYTON

B & F VARIETY STORE FIVE CAYS

Provo Electric

1 Electrical Engineer

Is looking for a

Labourer

is seeking a

Sous Chef

Climatech Limited

1 Air Condition Technician

Who can cook Dominican & Local food. Who can also speak fluent English and Spanish

Gordon Supply

1 Labourer

Baker & Cashier

Hole in the Wall Restaurant

2 Waitresses 1 Cook

Salary based on experience

6183

Must be able to work on weekends and holidays. Interested persons may contact our office or contact 243-4659 or 941-5688 6141

Salary must commensurate with qualifications Resumes can be faxed to 649-941-3425 and the Labour Department, Providenciales as soon as possible.

6169

To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 332-8571 Deadline for applications is January 10th, 2011

6174

18

Is seeking to employ a

thru Friday 7:30am to 4:30pm. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 244-8820

6158

Applicant must have considerable experience in all aspects of running a construction company.

To work 6 days per week.

Salary 75k per annum.

GILLEY’S ENTERPRISES

245-6962

6156

ARIEL & SON CONSTRUCTION Is seeking a

• STOTT PILATES™ Fully Certified Instructor; • Full Certificate includes Matwork, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair and Barrels, ISP; • Sivananda Yoga Certified Instructor; • Minimum 3 years experience

Contact 342-8287

Belongers are particularly encouraged to apply in writing, with CV and cover letter to Inner Balance at 649-946-4484 or info@innerbalance.tc with a copy to the Labour Office, Providenciales.

With experience in stucco and dryvit system.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Deadline for applications is December 26th, 2010

6168

Is looking for

Attention: Dane L. Underwood Managing Director West Bay Club 649-946-8550

On behalf of its client West Bay Club Is seeking to hire a

6164

6175

Contact: Tate Forbes at 946-4472

Norwani Services Limited

HEARTLYN WRIGHT

Who will be responsible for the daily maintenance of several building and its surrounding. Must be able to speak English. Must be trustworthy and have a pleasant attitude. Must be able to work weekend, holidays and overtime. Must be able to take on any other duties that may be assigned to you must be able to work with little or no supervision salary is based on minimum wages of $5-$6 per hour all applicants must possess a valid driver’s license Please submit all application between 9am and 5pm Monday thru Friday to:

Hours are 8:00am – 4:00pm Salary $5.00 per hour

Between the hours of 9:00am – 3:00pm

labourer

Applicants should also be experienced in teaching a range of classes including special population pre & post natal, sports conditioning and rehabilitation. Salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

HOUSEKEEPER

• Must be willing to work 5 days per week • Must be trustworthy and reliable

Contact Max Hamilton @

Position available for an energetic and motivated yoga and pilates instructor with excellent knowledge of anatomy, muscle function and body movement along with the following additional qualifications:

Is currently looking to employ a

Domestic Worker

To work 6 days per week.

Salary $6.50 per hour.

YOGA AND PILATES INSTRUCTOR

WEST BAY CLUB

Is seeking to employ a

To work 6 days per week.

Salary $6.50 per hour

6153

6155

Contact 345-8977 Deadline for application is December 26th, 2010

Contact 649-232-9700 or 649-241-9700

6161

per week. Salary $5.50 per hour.

Salary commensurate with experience.

1 NANNY

Contact 241-5615

Specializing in Dryvit and Stucco Moldings

Worker To work 5 days

Deadline for applications is January 10th, 2011

2 Labourers

1 Mason Supervisor

specializing in Dryvit and Custom Moldings

Contact 941-8283

6165

Is looking for a

Deadline for application December 26th, 2010

Domestic 1 Finish Mason

Contact 241-2866

To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour

Contact 342-1682

Is seeking

Experience is required

2 –Painters $6 per hour

Domestic Worker

To work 5 days per week.

Salary $5.50 per hour.

SHINNING FINISH DRYVIT AND STUCCO COMPANY

– $5 per hour

Labourer

Domestic Worker

Send resumes to P.O. Box 627

Labourer To work 6 days per week • Must have a clean police record • Must be able to work on holidays Salary $5 - $6.00 per hour

3 Kitchen Helpers

Sales Clerk

Labourer

To work 5 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

Contact 241-8388 Deadline for applications is January 10th, 2011

6180

Manager

– $6 per hour

Is looking for a

Is looking to fill the following positions:

KERLYNE JOSEPH

Is looking for a

3 Security Officers

RIPPLES LTD.

CRANDELL LIGHTBOURNE

Merry Christmas to all!

SOLID CONSTRUCTION

Is looking for the following persons on behalf of our clients: Caicos Café, Security Center, V & M Security, Williams Construction, Sweet T’s Restaurant

Domestic Worker To work Monday

December 23, 2010 9:00 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

December 24, 2010 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

December 27, 2010 Closed December 28, 2010 Closed December 29, 2010 Normal Business Hours December 30, 2010 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

December 31, 2010 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

January 3rd, 2011 Closed

C & J Employment Consultancy Services

6201

KAREN GIBSON

FirstCaribbean International Bank, International Banking Group, Royal Bank of Canada and Scotiabank will be observing the following business hours during the Christmas period.

Is looking for a

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

Banking Hours during the Christmas Holiday

WILLIAM JAMES STUBBS

19

6187

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Stove

Technician With at least 4 years experience.

Must be willing to work split shift, holidays and Sundays. Salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact 946-8289

6204

December 22 - January 8, 2011

Deadline for application is January 10th, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

SHARINGTON FORBES

WALKIN EQUIPMENT & CONTRACTING LTD.

Corey’s Funeral Chapel Limited

P.O. Box 520 East Leeward Highway, Providenciales Telephone: 649-941-4114/649-231-1915

TWO OPERATORS

Labourer

Needed Contact 649-231-1918 deadline for applications is January 12th, 2010

Fax resume to 649-946-4945

To work in North Caicos.

Must be able to work 5 days per week. Salary $5.50 per hour.

Contact 243-3204 Deadline for applications is January 10th, 2010

6197

To work Monday thru Friday from 9:00am – 2:00pm salary $5.50.

To work on the following equipments: dozer, roller, backhoe, grader, dump truck, excavator etc. must have knowledge of all the above equipment work a minimum of 44 hour per week holidays and weekends if necessary salary will be based on experience and performance must have at least 10 – 15 years

6224

Labourers Is looking for 2

BLUE HILL, P.O. Box 583, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS. TELEPHONE: 649-231-0088

NOTICE OF PUBLIC

on behalf of its client Grants Petroleum Texaco

AUCTION SALES Notice is hereby given that the Chargee (holder of charge), pursuant to the Registered Land Ordinance, will cause to be sold

by Public Auction the following properties outside the offices of Miller Simon O’Sullivan, Upper Floor, East Wing, Beatrice Butterfield Building, Butterfield Square, Providenciales at 10 a.m. on 7 January 2011:

1. Title No. 60900/171, Leeward Going Through, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: Sandra Ariza

On behalf of its client Frank Jean

Is seeking to employ a

Labourer To work 6 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 946-8289 Deadline for applications is January 10th, 2011

Comprising 0.76 acre parcel with a substantially complete single-storey dwelling house located on the south side of the Grace Bay Road, consisting four bedrooms, three bathrooms, living room, family room, dining room and kitchen with breakfast room.

6198

Norwani Services Limited

Norwani Services Limited

6205

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

December 22 - January 8, 2011

Is seeking to hire a

Cleaner To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 946-8289

6207

20

Deadline for applications January 10th, 2011

HEALTHY TREAT & DELI

2. Title No. 60715/210 Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: Lincoln Hudson Ferriera

Comprising 0.54 acre parcel with bare land containing dense indigenous bush and mature trees and is accessed via turning off the unpaved Turtle Creek Drive, which runs from the west of the Shell Station and proceeding southerly until the T junction, the subject land is accessed by taking the western turning and following the road until just before the canal starts to curve, where the subject land is located on the right hand side immediately fronting the canal.

Is looking for a Part-time

Kitchen

Helper To work one hour in

3. Title No. 61110/25, Long Bay Hills, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: Hugh Williams and Kimberly Ewing Williams Comprising 0.89 acre parcel with a partially complete residential building on a residential lot in the Long Bay area. Neighbourhood is residential although sparsely developed. Property is on the south side of an unpaved cul-de-sac in Long Bay Hills residential sub-division. The property is elevated at its roadside section and the land slopes down steeply in a south-easterly direction.

the morning and two hours in the night.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

4. Title No. 60905/155K5, Leeward Going Through, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: Whale Watchers Ltd Comprising 0.96 acre parcel containing a partially complete commercial development located on Front Street, Grand Turk with potential to be used for office or residential units.

Contact 244-3183

Deadline for applications January 10th, 2011

5. Title No. 10304/142, 143, 144, Central, Grand Turk Registered proprietor: - Renaissance 105 Co Ltd

K & J SALON

Located in the Vila Renaissance comprising of twenty-eight luxurious one, two and three bedroom beachfront villas located in the main accommodation. Located in the middle of the core area of development in Grace Bay area. The property is Unit 105, Villa Renaissance. Unit 105 is an ocean front lower floor two-bedroom end of terrace unit, which is located to the eastern portion of the main beach accommodation block. Unit has 2,664 Unit entitlement and 1,700 square foot gross external area.

Entrance foyer, living/dining area, kitchen, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, laundry closet, balcony off living area, storage and closet space, dedicated parking space and use of all facilities including the communal pool, fitness centre and pool bar.

Is looking for a

Beautician

6. Title 60503/143 Blue Hills and Stamers Run, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: Delroy Christian Lightbourne

Must have at least 3 years experience working in a salon. Must be able to work 6 days per week. Salary $200 per week.

Comprising 0.35 acre parcel with one storey residence and is accessed via turning off the unsurfaced portion of Millennium Highway. The turning to the property is found via taking the left immediately prior the High School when travelling in a North West direction and the property is located at the end of the marl access road. The building consists of four bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen/dining and living area, open deck and gazebo, external bathroom and block work storage area

Contact 342-2182

Interested buyers should contact Curtis Small at FirstCaribbean International Bank (Bahamas) Ltd (Barbados: Tel 01 246 467 1616; fax 01 246 431 0691) or the local branch Credit Counsellor at FirstCaribbean International Bank (Bahamas) Ltd, Leeward Highway, Providenciales on tel 649 946 4245 ext 343 7. Title No. 60900/216, Leeward Going Through, Providenciales Registered Proprietor: Pelican Estates Ltd.

The property to be sold comprises four (4) acres of undeveloped land located in the Leeward area of Providenciales – see location map below. Please note that, for appropriate qualified buyers, financing may be available for part of the purchase price.

S. WALKIN & SON

BLUE HILLS, P.O. BOX 583, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

TEL: 649-94-4411 FAX: 649-946-4945

6214

To work, diagnostic & troubleshooting on the following engines: Suzuki, Evinrude, Johnson, Mercury, Seadoo. Marine mechanical repairs and rigging boat (wiring instrument gauges & engines) salary will be based on experience and performance must have at least 10 – 15 years

6195

ONE (1) MARINE OUTBOARD MECHANIC

Conditions of Auction and draft Agreement for Purchase and Sale, Block Plan and Registry may be had from the Chargee’s attorneys, Miller Simons O’Sullivan, P.O. Box 260, Beatrice Butterfield Building, Butterfield Square, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, British West Indies, Telephone 1-649-946-4650, Fax 1-649-9464663, email: mlw@mslaw.tc, Attention: Timothy P. O’Sullivan, Managing Partner.

December 22 - January 8, 2011 PHONE: (649) 946-4664

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

21 FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

Veronica Clarke

BUTTERFIELD GOLD GROUP OF COMPANIES

Is seeking one

POSITIONS AVAILABLE needed BEAUTICIAN

Island Pride Supermarket

Labourer

To work 6 days per week. Must have at least 5 years experience.

Salary $5.50 per hour.

Contact 244-2482

Deadline for application is January 10th, 2011

Sales Clerk To work 6 days

GARDENER

per week salary $600 per week

Applicant must be physical, able-bodied individuals capable of lifting heavy loads and working with cement.

Wages: from $6.00 per hour

Provo

Telephone: 946-5754/Fax: 946-5166

Is looking for a

Three Labourers

Deadline for applicants 7 January 1011

MERVIN COX

Catch The Wave

Buttefield Gold

Contact 941-3037

Submit applications to by December 23, 2010 to: Butterfield Gold Ltd., Human Resource Department, Town Center Mall Providenciales, Tel: 649-946-4211

Contact 241 9180 6185

@@ Over ten (10) years experience in supermarket retail and wholesale management. @@ Applicant must have current product knowledge of the retail industry and record ability to achieve the budget financial and operating results including sales profitability and wage percentage. @@ Must have experience in managing the human resource activities. @@ Must have the ability to identify, develop and direct the implementation of business strategy and report to owners on organizational plans. @@ Applicant must be able to work extended hours including nights, weekend and holidays.

Pay commensurate with experience salary range form $65,000.00 - $75,000.00

6184

One Store Manager

To work 5 days per week. Salary 5.00 an hour.

Salary Starts at $5.00 per hour. Only Turks Islander need to apply

6213

Norwani Services

ACE PLUMBING

Is seeking to hire a

Seeking a

@@ A bachelor’s degree in accounting, with coursework in business law is required.

(CMA preferred) @@ Minimum of 8 years professional experience @@ Experience in Internal Control, Finance & Accounting @@ Must have experience with recurring revenue business model and knowledge of FASB/GAAP reporting requirements with regard to deferred revenue. @@ Experience as a senior manager in a rapidly growing company @@ Proven ability to maintain credibility and confidence level with bank and/or vendors/suppliers @@ The applicant is able to demonstrated knowledge and experience in establishing and working with staff benefits, including staff investments and savings schemes. @@ Experience with selection and implementation of accounting and billing systems @@ Experience negotiating and managing business contracts and compliance with customer privacy law @@ Experience in multiple company/location environment @@ Must a have solid knowledge of Excel and/or Lotus 123 and ability to do complex forecasting. @@ Knowledge of QuickBooks Enterprise Solutions/QuickBooks would be an asset.

Emoluments based on qualifications and experience.

Salary $8.00 per hour. Applicant must be willing to work six days.

Deadline for applications is January 12th, 2011

Colombian Emeralds International “The World’s foremost Emerald Jeweller” with over 50 stores worldwide has exciting career opportunities

SALES ASSOCIATES

• Retail Jewelry Sales experience • Excellent Customer Care focus • Teamwork and ability to meet company objectives

Stanley Star Construction Is looking for a

Tile Layer

To work 5 days. Must have at least 4 years experience.

Salary $10.00 per hour.

Salary $10.00 per hour. Must be able to work 6 days per week.

Contact 231-0989 Deadline for applications January 13th, 2011

• Trustworthy dependable & willing to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays • Ability to achieve goals as outlined by management

Forward your CV’s & Cover letters to: Nordica Dell Colombian Emeralds International Beaches Resort, Turks & Caicos Islands Fax: 1-649-941-2333. (No Phone Calls)

needed 6221

Contact 232-5262

Contact 946-8289

Colombian Emeralds International

Carpenter

Must be able to work weekends and holidays. Salary $5.50 per hour.

With at least 5 years experience must be fluent in English, Spanish and French must be able to work 5 days per week salary $8.00 per hour deadline for application is January 10th, 2011.

Contact 243.8210

Please submit cover letter with CV to Butterfield Gold Ltd., Admin & Finance Dept., Town Centre Mall, Providenciales or by fax to 649 941 5777

Laundry Supervisor needed

Certified Accountant Trainer

Contact 231-0308 6221

Deadline for application January 11th, 2011

6209

JOB DESCRIPTION The CFO will be responsible for the overall management of the company's financial and accounting requirements and assist with Human Resources, particularly where it relates to the staffing of the Finance Department.

Mechanic & a plumber

6192

One Chief Financial Officer

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664 On behalf of its client William Jennings

CHEERFUL HANDFIELD

Norwani Services Limited On behalf of its client R Variety Store

Is looking to hire a

ANIELA & STINA STUBBS Is seeking a

Domestic

Is looking for a

Is seeking to hire a

Deadline for application is January 10th, 2011

6206

Contact 946-8289

Deadline for applications is January 10th, 2011 contact 946-8289

6208

To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Kitchen Helper/ Domestic Worker

To work 5 days per week. Salary $150.00 per week.

Contact 345-7287

6151

Maid Maid To work 4 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

Worker Salary $5.00 per hour • Must be able to do general cleaning • Must be trustworthy and reliable • Must be able to work independently • Must be willing to work flexible hours Deadline January 4th, 2011

Contact 241-0777

6218

Norwani Services Limited On behalf of its client Grace Bay Club is seeking to hire a

COMMERCIAL CLEANERS Is looking for 2

Laundry

Attendant To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 946-8289 Deadline for applications is January 10th, 2011

6203

Norwani Services Limited

December 22 - January 8, 2011

Labourers To work 5 days

per week. Salary $5.50 per hour.

Contact 241-6398

4143

22

Engineering Design Services (EDS) Ltd. Is seeking the following position:

VACANCIES Sales Clerks, Sales Associates & Sales Persons & Cashiers Applicants must: • Have at least 3 years experience or prior working knowledge of the related department.

• Must be a High School graduate and computer literate • Must be punctual and responsible able to work on your own initiative • Have a friendly temperament and be willing to go beyond the cal of duty to make customers happy.

• Be able to write and speak English fluently (bi or multilingual is a plus.

• Be willing to work flexible hours.

• Salary $6.50 per hour.

Site Supervisor Site supervisor to oversee civil/structural aspect of construction on developments throughout Caribbean including Haiti. 2 to 4 years experience in the production of structural general arrangement drawings primarily in the building structures field using AutoCAD, computer literate, experience in producing both general arrangement and reinforced concrete details to seismic standards in building structures is essential. The candidate must be a team player with the ability to work alone and meet deadlines. Ideally the successful candidate should have a diploma in Civil/Structural Engineering or equivalent.

Salary - Commensurate based on qualification and experience.

Applicants must: • Have at least 5 years experience driving and operating heavy equipment and trucks 2 tons or more.

• Must possess a class B-H Turks and Caicos Islands Driver’s License • Be able to write and speak English fluently (Bi-multilingual is a plus).

• Be willing to work flexible hours.

• Must be punctual and responsible able to work on own initiative.

• Be willing to work as a team member • Salary $9:00 per hour

Mechanic Applicants must: • Have at least 5 years experience mechanic experience in heavy equipment and trucks 2 tons or more and all other automotives.

• Must possess a class B-H Turks and Caicos Islands Driver’s License • Be able to write and speak English fluently (Bi-multilingual is a plus).

• Be willing to work flexible hours.

• Must be punctual and responsible able to work on own initiative.

• Be willing to work as a team member • Salary $9:00 per hour

eds@tciway.tc or call 649-941-3324 between the hours 8:30am until 5pm. Or submit to The Labour Officer, Providenciales.

6139

Please email CV to

Truck Driver

vacancy

Chukka Caribbean Adventures (TCI) Ltd. In association with a leading Nature Adventure tour company with affiliated facilities in Jamaica, Turks & Caicos Islands, and Belize invites applications from suitably qualified candidates for the position of:

JEEP DRIVER & DUNE BUGGY DRIVER

Labourer & Cleaner Applicants must • Be able to write and speak English fluently (bi-multilingual is a plus) • Be willing to work flexible hours.

• Be able to work with little or no supervision.

• Salary $6.00

Finance Account Manager Applicants must: To provide total financial leadership, direction and analysis to the functional management team.

Will play key role in driving functional metrics and controlling cost in order to achieve business goals and create shareholder value. Must be a self-starter who thinks out of the box. Will work closely with the finance leadership, manage difficult situations, and motivate team process improvement experience.

Responsibilities include: • Strategic analysis/problem solving • Participate in preparation of annual budget • Conduct financial planning for function and make appropriate recommendations • Lead plan and coordinate financial work teams • Drive key functional financial metrics • Project management • Facilitate cross-financial communication with areas of business

The successful applicant must satisfy the following: • Must be a holder of a General Drivers License for at least 3 years • Must be at least 25 years old • Must have operated a tourist passenger vehicle for at least 3 years • Defensive driving certificate or an excellent driving record would be an asset • Have a valid passport • Be willing to travel and do an internship in Jamaica • Be well-spoken • Any other prior experience in the tourism industry would be an asset • Be CPR and First Aid trained • Must have experience in the tour guiding business • Be able to work on own initiative • Must be a competent swimmer NOTE: Any applicant, who does not possess all of the necessary requirements but would like to apply, may be considered for immediate training at one of our facilities in Jamaica once found suitable for the position.

Applications must be sent to:

Experience: 5 years in related field Educational required: Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent degree in related Financial/Accounts Management Field.

All applications must be received no later than December 30th, 2010

Preferred Qualifications • Solid Management experience • Technical Skills- SAP A/P Experience

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

Apply to the Human Resource Department (649) 946-4131 6140

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

6189

CHUKKA CARIBBEAN ADVENTURES (TCI) LTD. C/o Morris Cottingham Hibiscus Square, Pond Street P.O Box 156, Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands Phone: 649-332-1339, Fax: 649-946-2503. Email: jmiller@chukkacaribbean.com

GOLDSMITH is looking for 2

GLOBAL SERVICES

Cocktail

To fix jewelry salary $5.50 per hour. Must be able to work 5 days.

Contact 241-2866

6200

Domestic Worker

To work 7 days per week. Salary $150.00 per week.

6212

Contact 241-4626 BENNETT GARDINER

6068

To work 3 days per week. Salary – $5.00 per hour.

Yard Watchman

Contact 342-4116

Deadline for application for deadline is January 10th, 2011

Deadline for applications is December 18th, 2010

BEEN’S CONSULTING SERVICES Is looking for the following persons on behalf of our clients:-

needed

6 Domestic Workers 4 Laborers 1 Security Officer 2 Sales Persons 1 Babysitter 2 Handymen 1 Pastry Chef 1 Nanny

4 days a week.

Salary $ 6.00 per hour.

Contact 345-9773

Salary $5.00 per hour Applicants must be willing to work with little or no supervision Interested person can contact

Full-time including nights, weekends and public holidays. Own car required and special needs experience essential. $5.50 per hour Contact Robyn on 344 3625 or at robynbwi@yahoo.com.au

946-4664

Contact 331-1809

649-343-8659

6199

OR EMAIL

tcnews@tciway.tc

Sherlock Walkin BLUE HILLS, PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS TEL: 649-231-0088 OR 649-332-0088

ONE

GARDENER

Clean around the yard and to take care of all the fruit trees responsible for all aspects of yard maintenance, landscaping and gardening salary will be based on experience and performance

6196

ELITE LANSCAPING AND DESIGN LTD. Invited suitable qualified person to fill the following vacancies immediately

2 Landscape Designers - $10.00 per hour Job requirements and responsibilities:

6146

Labourer

to work Monday thru Friday salary $5.00 per hour

to work 7 days per week salary $5.00 per hour

Nanny/ Housekeeper wanted

Is looking for a

Contact 231-2033

To work 7 days per week. Salary $200 per week.

6193

is looking for a

Deadline for application is January 10th, 2011

Waitresses

Labourer

BETTY COX

Call today to advertise

Seamstress

Is looking to hire 4

JewelLEry Repairmen

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

BEES BAR & GRILL

SHIVA TCI LTD.

23

6217

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

• Must have 5 years experience in landscape designs • must have university/ college degree • excellent oral, written communication and presentation and negotiation skills • must be self motivated, possess the ability to work independently and meet project deadlines

8 Labourers – $5.00 per hour • Candidate must be physically capable of manual labor outside • General cleaning and maintenance of residential properties Successful candidates reply to: Contact by email mstolow@aol.com Monday thru Friday between 11am – 3pm With a clean police record, references and drivers license Or telephone 649-242-5646 Belonger only need apply

6188

December 22 - January 8, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

December 22 - January 8, 2011

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

NEW IMAGE BEAUTY CENTRE Is looking for

Cosmetologists Must have at least 5 years experience. Must be able to work 6 days a week and long hours.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 241-4156

EBEN-EZER

Bay Bistro

Is looking for a

Labourer To work 5 days per week. Salary $160.00 per week.

Contact 946-4374

FAX: (649) 946-4661

R E S T A U R A N T

Labourers Is looking for 2

Needed to work in the kitchen.

Salary $5.50 per hour. Must be able to work long hours, holidays and weekends.

Belongers need only apply.

Please drop of resumes at Bay Bistro Restaurant, Grace Bay, Providenciales

JOB VACANCY

Corporate Manager Purpose of Role: The Manager, Corporate will lead, manage and motivate a relationship team comprised of Credit Managers, Credit Officers and Client Service Officers with the objective of efficiently managing a portfolio of corporate clients by providing world class relationship management, top quality risk control and overseeing personal development of team members. This role will be responsible for maximizing customer profitability by driving revenue growth through generation of loans, deposits, fee income and cross-selling all applicable bank services to existing customer base, identifying and soliciting bank services to non-customers.

The Manager, Corporate will front the relationship team, developing an intimate knowledge of all customers in the assigned client portfolio, coordinating all aspects of the client relationship, effectively directly the relationship team in providing high quality customer service and satisfaction. This role will have accountability for the credit quality of the assigned client portfolio, reviewing credit requests as required to ensure compliance with the Bank credit quality standards and ultimately is accountable for the customer experience.

This role will manage client portfolios that are smaller in scale and complexity

Key Accountabilities: Sources, originates new clients and foster high quality business opportunities with existing clients through proactive idea generation and selling. Negotiates, achieves acquisitions and growth targets annually. Direct the relationship team in building lasting relations with clients that will generate revenue and grow income targets for the business while providing world class service to clients.

Manages and significantly grows the existing portfolio by building and broadening the scope of the client relationship and increasing ‘wallet share’ of the clients’ investment and banking business services. Focus on providing world class personalized relationship service for up to 75 -100 Clients.

Continually mine assigned portfolio, conducting thorough needs assessments and identifying business opportunities, potential client issues and risks. Provides a consultancy based approach to customers, involving the relationship team members as needed.

Monitors and controls accounts within the assigned client portfolio, reviewing the quality of the customer group in line with Bank and Corporate policies and guidelines. Reviews with CRMD any trigger points or issues causing concern. Complete all relevant risk reviews and reporting including early warning questionnaires, proposing EWL strategies, portfolio level reporting, etc.

Directs the Credit Manager and/or Credit Officer, Product Specialists across the Bank (e.g. credit cards, leasing etc.) and Corporate Finance Managers, as appropriate, to develop solutions which meet and create business opportunities with both existing clients and targeted prospects.

Provide pro-active relationship management and deepen client relationships through indepth reviews of the clients’ business, financing and relationship requirements.

Develop and deliver targeted financing solutions for clients, balancing the needs of the client’s business and the Bank’s credit and risk standards/ policies. Price financing solutions and services for clients and portfolios appropriately ensuring cost for services and products enhance the Bank’s profitability and provide quality service to clients.

Review, agree and sign off on mortgages and credit applications/recommendations (prepared by the Credit Managers and/or Credit Officers) to CRMD for sanctioning (outside of personal discretion).

Sell customized financing and banking solutions using a diagnostic approach. This will require an in-depth and holistic understanding of the client’s business, including strategies, market position, industry risk and developments, interdependences and financial risks, support client’s strategic and business planning processes, providing advice and consultation on financial needs and services.

Take an inclusive approach to client relationship and building the business by coordinating client portfolio relationship team members and appropriate specialists and partners. Educate supporting team members about your client’s business, key needs and requirements on-going. Ensure clients are referred to appropriate team members for service needs, questions and providing solutions.

Take an inclusive approach to client relationship and building the business by coordinating client portfolio relationship team members and appropriate specialists and

partners. Educate supporting team members about your client’s business, key needs and requirements on-going. Ensure clients are referred to appropriate team members for service needs, questions and providing solutions.

Critical Knowledge & Skills Required: In Corporate Banking SBU, we build strong, proactive relationships through in-depth knowledge of our client’s business, we provide value-added advice and service to clients and we grow our business and profitability in the Caribbean market. We measure our success by what our customers tell us, by portfolio and financial growth, risk quality, employee satisfaction and by our reputation in the markets we serve.

• Champion personal development of direct reports by providing ongoing effective mentoring and coaching.

• Responsible for Performance Management and mentoring responsibilities for the client portfolio team.

• Deputize for Head of Corporate banking, as may be required.

• Develop and maintain an external network within the market, including key stakeholders, advisors and business associations. Support and promote the profile of FirstCaribbean by participating in industry events and associations.

• Act as a team player and ensure full participation and partnering in the “deal team model” to delight customers and to effectively build the business portfolio.

• This is a key relationship position within the Corporate Division business. Successful Candidates should expect to commit to a minimum 3 year term. Flexible working hours are required to meet client demands.

• The Manager, Corporate, will recruit and manage a comprehensive portfolio of approx 75-100 corporate clients, to include borrowing and non-borrowing accounts in diversified Sectors of business. Based on client and business, needs, borrowings can range from USD$100,000 to x USD millions.

• In line with existing parameters and risk grades.

• Delegated Lending Authority as per established guidelines

Experience Required: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Relationship builder with expert ability to influence and negotiate to win- win solutions.

Strong and mature team builder and player.

High degree of initiative, a self- starter and self motivated.

Advanced orientation to driving for results.

Graduate status with a minimum of 5 years experience in the business/financial world.

Proven origination, business development, deal closing and relationship management skills to successfully lead and drive a Corporate banking team.

Superior leadership and performance management skills to lead and retain a world class team.

In-depth understanding of the Corporate business, financing solutions, credit suite of Products and the set of products available across FirstCaribbean. Strong understanding of financial options and applicability to various business scenarios.

Excellent selling, influencing and negotiating skills.

Advanced credit risk analysis skills with strong financial counseling ability.

Superior communication skills at all levels including verbal and written with a strong emphasis on the formal presentation capability.

Well developed management skills in the area of hiring, training and conflict resolution.

Understanding of the industry trends and macro economic factors affecting customers and markets.

Relationship builder with expert ability to influence and negotiate to win- win solutions.

Strong and mature team builder and player.

High degree of initiative, a self- starter and self motivated.

Advanced orientation to driving for results.

@@ BENEFITS: Salary Range: 55,327 – 71,593 @@ Benefits includes Life Insurance, Health Insurance, preferred rates on banking @@ services and competitive salary commensurate with qualifications.

Applicants are requested to submit their resume with a cover letter Via email by December, 24th 2010 To: Bianca.Oneil@firstcaribbeanbank.com (Only Turks & Caicos Islanders/Belongers need apply) ONLY Qualified candidates will be contacted for interview

6147

24

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

LABORER NEEDED

Labourer Is looking for a

PIERRE TOMPSON

Call today to advertise

Is seeking a

Labourer LABOURER Contact 231-1391

946-4664

6052

4148

Needed to work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour

is looking for a

Labourer • Must be willing to work six (6) days per week • Must be trustworthy and reliable Salary $6.00 per hour Hours are from 8:00am -4:00pm some extra hours maybe required

OR EMAIL

tcnews@tciway.tc

CARIB GLASS & SUPPLIES LTD. Requires a

Chief Installer/ Glazier Based in Providenciales

We are looking to employ a Senior Glazer with a minimum of 10 years experience in the glass industry who is mature, responsible and have leadership qualities.

Must be fully conversant in all aspects of commercial installations from storefront to curtain wall systems, security doors and all types of hurricane protection, canopies and glass balustrades.

A certified glazers certificate from a reputable organization, as well as computer skills, preferably with a working knowledge of both Excel spreadsheets and Word documents and a daily use of web and email is a “must have”. In addition to the above, the person we are seeking will be able to read architectural drawings, taking concise field dimensions for quoting and ordering, seeing projects through from inception to completion.

6152

Interested applicants are asked to contact Ms. Toussaint on 341-6834

6144

Contact 246-9395

PROVO BEVERAGES

Ange Toussaint is seeking the help of a hard working and trustworthy laborer to assist in daily chores around the home.

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 245-4792

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

Kelci Talbot

To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.50 per hour.

25

Contact Serge between the hours of 9:00am-3:00pm at telephone 941-3637 or fax: 941-3637

NOTICE Regulation 7 of the Physical Planning (Development Permission) Regulations, 1990 An Application, PR10753, by Mr. Jermaine and Aisha Laporte for the development of a Gas Station/ Convenience Store, has been submitted to the Department of Planning for consideration of Development Permission on Parcels 60810/113, Leeward Highway, Providenciales.

Anyone wishing to make representation(s) may do so in writing to the Director of Planning, South Base, Grand Turk or through the Department of Planning, Downtown, Town Center Mall, Providenciales, within twenty-eight (28) days of the publication of this Notice Notice Dated: December 25th, 2010

The Sands is now accepting applications/résumé for the following positions. Only highly self-driven & motivated, personable and professional individuals, who have the desire to serve others, need apply:

If you posses ALL theses qualities and are fluent in English, both oral and written, please supply a copy of your resume to

The Glass Shack Building, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, or email to caribglass@tciway.tc

Revenue Manager

Creative Designer

Responsibilities

Salary: $10 per hour Contact Person: Mario Mamet Location: P.O. Box 238, TC Millwork, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands Contact: tcmillwork@tciway.tc Phone; 649-231-4537

Skills Required for Creative Designer: Applicant must have a B.F.A. in design or similar field individual must have ten years professional experience in interior decorating or design knowledge of carpentry, joinery, cabinetmaking, faux finishing and wood type are essential individual should have familiarity with island construction, importing processes and paperwork, all PC computer applications as well as proficiency in Auto-Cad, Adobe Photoshop, and Google Sketch Duties: Design cabinetry, furniture and other millshop products provide repair, refinishing and faux finishing for required items provide custom mural and painted artworks consult and advise clients in a professional and courteous manner create on site measurements, sketches and photography provide renovation and remodeling plans and carry out work needed prepare all advertising and marketing materials style photograph and catalog finished projects prepare order for materials in a timely and prudent manner assist with daily millshop operation as needed must be professional and courteous applicants please send a resume via preferred contact method 6215

@@ To maximize revenue through rate and inventory controls (yield management) @@ To monitor rate transparency, integrity and availability throughout all distribution channels @@ To develop accurate forecasts, pace reports and revenue based budgets for the company @@ To ensure room rates, allotments and allocations are set up and recorded properly @@ To perform training for the Reservations Team and cross training with the Front Office @@ To analyze current and historical data to identify business trends @@ To create and upload specials to our website and conduct constant price comparisons of our competitive set @@ To monitor and update the Extranet daily @@ To Create Pace Reports, @@ To work directly with guests and staff ensuring that customer service levels are of the utmost priority @@ Conduct MOD shifts Bi-Monthly @@ Attend Sales Meetings, Trade Shows, Marketing and PR Functions as requested by the General Manager

Requirements

• At least 3 years of Experience in Reservations and Revenue Management • Must have at least 1 year of Condo Resort Experience • Bachelors Degree in Business Administration or Hospitality Management

Turks Island citizens only need to apply in person to Tiersa Smith, Human Resources Manager at The Sands Resort located on Grace Bay Road, Providenciales, or e-mail: tsmith@thesandstc.com.

Applications must be in by December 27th, 2010.

6210

December 22 - January 8, 2011

26

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

SHERRY FORBES Is looking for a

December 22 - January 8, 2011

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

URIAL MUSGROVE

MARSHALL EWING

Is looking for a

Is looking for a

BSL CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

FAX: (649) 946-4661

THREE QUEENS BAR & RESTAURANT Is looking for 2

Worker Worker Diver

Carpenter

Contact 344-0875

Contact 242-1402

Contact 241-4049

To work 5 days per week depending on the weather. Salary based on commission.

Contact 343-2891

Must have at least 4 years experience must be willing to work 5 days per week salary $10.00 per hour.

6233

6142

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SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION Pursuant to the provisions of the Registered Land Ordinance, British Caribbean Bank Limited, Governor’s Road, Leeward, Providenciales HEREBY GIVES NOTICE that it will cause to be sold by public auction the following properties: TITLE 60902/111 Leeward Going Through Providenciales

DESCRIPTION 1 residential luxury home and 1 guest house on Pinta Lane with canal frontage located on 0.92 acres of land

REGISTERED PROPRIETOR Henry Clark

60904/216,217,218,221 222,351,352,514 Leeward Going Through Providenciales

7.65 acres of adjoining raw land located at the entrance of Leeward Development.

Zoned – Hotel/Tourism

Clarke Properties (TCI) Ltd

The auction will be held on Thursday 6th January, 2011 at 10:00am at the offices of the British Caribbean Bank Limited, Governor’s Road, Leeward, Providenciales. Conditions of sale may be obtained from the British Caribbean Bank Limited and further inquiries may be directed to the Risk Management Unit @ 1-649-941-5028 ext 302.

ALL SALES ARE SUBJECT TO RESERVE; 10% DEPOSIT REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY AFTER SUCCESSFUL BID.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

TURKS AND CAICOS NATIONAL INSURANCE BOARD

Barmaids To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour.

Contact 241-9950

PROPERTY MANAGERS ASSISTANT Duties include: organization of villa rentals, airport pickups, and house cleaning accountancy Requirements: 5 years Real Estate experience, vehicle and license, computer and working knowledge of Excel, impeccable people skills, ability to work overtime holidays and weekends Pay: commensurate with experience beginning at $8.00 per hour. Belonger need only apply.

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

TURKS AND CAICOS NATIONAL INSURANCE BOARD

The Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board wishes to invite suitably qualified individuals for consideration for appointment to the following executive position.

The Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board wishes to invite suitably qualified individuals for consideration for appointment to the post of Human Resource Manager at its Grand Turk Head Office.

DEPUTY DIRECTOR

Human Resources and Administration Manager – TCINIB

Duties and Responsibilities Reporting to the Director, the Deputy Director-Corporate Services will have primary responsibility for ensuring the effective delivery of the results required from the sub-functions of Finance and Accounting, Investment, Marketing, Information Technology and Human Resources and Administration. This position is a critical part of the Executive Management Team and the incumbent effects corporate oversight over a range of non-insurance activities. The functions of Finance and Accounting, Investment, Marketing, Information Technology and Human Resources and Administration are all expected to make significant demands on the managerial capabilities of the successful candidate.

Duties and Responsibilities Reporting to the Deputy Director Corporate Services, the Human Resources and Administration Manager is generally accountable for the human resource management infrastructure, related institutional policies and support systems which facilitate the attraction, management, development and retention of the human resources required to effectively achieve the stated objectives of the Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board.

– CORPORATE SERVICES

Requirements The successful candidate must have well-entrenched strategic thinking skills and must evidence the same ease in investment management decision-making as he/ she should evidence in treating with information technology or human resource management challenges. The applicant’s knowledge of national insurance, social security or finance/banking operations will aid considerably in the selection decisionmaking process. The Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board will consider applicants who possess no less than a Master’s Degree preferably in Business and at least eight (8) years related experience at a senior management level.

The successful candidate will be appointed on a permanent basis subject to the completion of a successful period of probation. The compensation and benefits which attend this position will be commensurate with the qualifications, experience and potential of the successful applicant. Salary will be in the Salary Range of Senior Management VII $90,001 to $95,550 per annum.

Your application along with detailed curriculum vitae must be addressed in a sealed envelope to reach no later than January 14, 2011 to:

The Secretary Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board Misick Building, Church Folly, Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos, BWI.

Requirements The successful candidate must be a matured, seasoned and highly motivated, resultsoriented team player that is committed to HR development and problem solving. The individual must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Knowledge of National Insurance operations will be an asset. The Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board will consider applicants that possess not less than a Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management and at least five (5) years related experience, two (2) of which must be at senior managerial level. Experience must include hands-on responsibility for the full scope of human resources activities.

The successful candidate will be appointed on a permanent basis subject to the completion of a successful period of probation. The compensation and benefits which attend this position will be commensurate with the qualifications, experience and potential of the successful applicant. Salary will be in the Salary Range Management VI $70,001 to $90,000.

Your application along with detailed curriculum vitae must be addressed in a sealed envelope to reach no later than January 14, 2011 to:

The Secretary Turks and Caicos Islands National Insurance Board Misick Building Church Folly Grand Turk Turks and Caicos, BWI.

6157

Domestic Domestic

December 22 - January 8, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Sports International

27

Ferguson becomes longest serving United manager LONDON (AP) — Alex Ferguson became Manchester United’s longest-serving manager on Sunday with his team topping the Premier League but with heavy snow denying him the chance to mark the milestone with a win over title rival Chelsea.

By extending his reign to 8,811 days, the 68-year-old Ferguson surpassed fellow

P & D CONSULTANCY

Scotsman Matt Busby’s record set during his two spells in the Old Trafford hot seat.

“In the history of football, the best (manager) is Sir Alex,” said England coach Fabio Capello, the 64-yearold Italian who has also taken charge of Real Madrid and AC Milan. “For such a long time he managed the team and

THERESA FORBES

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workers

Deadline for applications is January 10th, 2011

6191

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To work Monday thru Friday. Salary $150.00 per week.

changed a lot. He changed the team, he changed the players, he has been really, really good for the club.”

Ferguson has won 26 major trophies since replacing Ron Atkinson in November 1986, including the Premier League eleven times and the Champions League twice.

“It’s an incredible achievement,” said United assistant manager Mike Phelan, who also played under Ferguson. “His secret is his enthusiasm, his attention to detail, his work ethic — that’s something he was born into, which comes from his background and his family.

He is youthful, has a young mind, and he’s always willing to learn.”

Ferguson, who has stopped discussing his future plans after previously changing his mind about retirement to remain in the job, was awarded a knighthood by Queen Elizabeth II in 1999 after guiding United to a treble of Premier League, European Champions League and FA Cup titles that year.

While he has become British football’s most successful manager, Ferguson is quick to point out that Busby had the tougher time, having to rebuild United following the 1958 Munich air disaster that killed eight players.

Busby went on to deliver the club’s first European Cup in 1968 as well as winning five league titles during his first tenure between 1945 and ‘69.

He took charge again between 1970 and ‘71 and remained involved with the club until his death in 1994, aged 84.

Manchester United’s manager Alex Ferguson.

Bucket Truck

For Sale

MISICK AND STANBROOK Is seeking to fill the following positions:

SENIOR LITIGATION ATTORNEYS @@A minimum of ten years experience in advocacy in all types and levels of litigation with emphasis on complex commercial matters, civil and criminal litigation (including fraud, money laundering and confiscation proceedings) @@Salary commensurate with experience @@Closing date for applications: January 5th, 2011

Applicants should please send detailed CV with the names of two referees to Deveraux Malcolm, Misick and Stanbrook, via fax (649) 946 4734 or e-mail to deveraux@misickstanbrook.tc.

One Electronic

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Interested persons, please contact

The Tuscany Resort

at 941-4667 PHARA PIERRE

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Was $ 20.000.00 Now $ 10.000.00 for Quick Sale Less than forty (40) hours working hours since on Providenciales since November 2008. 55ft height, 4x4 (four wheel drive) two men bucket. Diesel.

Contact telephone: 2423910

28

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 22 - January 8, 2011

Man City striker Tevez Hunger for runs drives withdraws transfer request 37-year-old Tendulkar on

MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez withdrew his transfer request on Monday following “clear-theair talks” that the club hopes will remove any instability as it chases the Premier League title.

City announced that Tevez’s contract, which has 3½ years to run, remains unchanged and that the Argentina international has “expressed his absolute commitment to the club.”

Tevez retained the captaincy for Monday’s home game against Everton and received a warm reception from the home fans, but could not prevent his side slipping to a 2-1 loss that leaves City two points behind leader Manchester United.

The defeat soured the mood at Eastlands following the earlier news that Tevez, the club’s top scorer and highest paid player, had had a dramatic change of heart.

Nine days previously, he rocked the club by demanding a move and claiming he had fallen out with Eastlands officials. Tevez’s adviser also said the player was unhappy

Manchester City’s Carlos Tevez withdrew his transfer request on Monday following “clear-theair talks” that the club hopes will remove any instability as it chases the Premier League title.

(AP Photo/Tim Hales)

with the team’s failure to qualify for the Champions League this season.

City, though, believed the transfer request — which it immediately refused to sanction — was motivated

by Tevez’s desire to secure a more lucrative contract with the club he joined in 2009 from Manchester United.

The standoff was reminiscent of Wayne Rooney’s brief fallout with United in October, but unlike its fierce rival, City appears to have forced its star striker to back down without offering improved terms.

“Manchester City can confirm to its fans that ‘clear the air’ talks have been held with Carlos Tevez,” the club said in a statement. “During the meeting Carlos expressed his absolute commitment to the club and formally withdrew his transfer request. Carlos’ contract remains unchanged and both Carlos and the football club are keen to focus on the opportunities that lie ahead.”

Tevez is seen as pivotal to City’s hopes of winning the top flight title for the first time since 1968. His 10 league goals have put City on course for a top four finish and qualification for the Champions League.

CENTURION, South Africa (AP) — He made his test debut as a 16-yearold in 1989, so Sachin Tendulkar has 21 years in international cricket to reflect on. This year has been one of his best.

Tendulkar, now 37, capped 2010 with an unprecedented 50th career test century for India on day four of the first test against South Africa on Sunday. He now has 11 more centuries and over 2,000 more runs than his nearest rival.

With a record 175 tests and more than two decades at the crease, he should be slowing down or winding up. Not the little master.

Tendulkar began this year by making 200 in a one-day international — also against South Africa — the only time a batsman has achieved the feat.

He became the first man to 13,000 and then 14,000 test runs. He already has over 3,000 more ODI runs than anyone else.

In 2010, he passed Steve Waugh’s 168 test appearances to become the

Batting great Sachin Tendulkar is a living legend.

most capped player ever. And he won the International Cricket Council’s player of the year award. Now he’s scored test century No. 50.

Samuel Eto’o named African player of the year CAIRO (AP) — Samuel Eto’o was named African player of the year for a record fourth time at a ceremony on Monday.

The 29-year-old Cameroon and Inter Milan striker finished ahead of Ghana forward Asamoah Gyan and Didier Drogba of the Ivory Coast in votes cast by the national coaches of the 53 African football associations.

Eto’o, who also won the award in 2003, 2004 and 2005, helped Inter Milan win an unprecedented treble of league, cup and Champions League titles last season.

He overtakes Abedi Pele and George Weah, who both won the award three times.

Eto’o scored one goal and created another in Inter’s 3-0 Club World Cup final win over TP Mazembe on Saturday. Mazembe was nonetheless chosen as African team of the year.

Gyan lost out to Eto’o despite starring in Ghana’s runs to the World Cup quarterfinals and the final of the Africa Cup of Nations.

However, Ghana was team of the year, while Serbian Milovan Rajevac, who stepped down as Ghana coach in September, was named coach of the year.

Ahmed Hassan won the Africanbased player of the year award after leading Egypt to the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations title.

Jockey McCoy voted BBC sports personality of 2010 BIRMINGHAM, England (AP) — Tony McCoy became the first jockey to be voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year, receiving national recognition Sunday for riding more than 3,000 winners and triumphing in the Grand National steeplechase in his 15th attempt.

The 36-year-old McCoy had won most major races in Britain — including the Cheltenham Gold Cup, Champion Hurdle and King George VI Chase — but had 14 failed attempts to win the Grand National until he rode Don’t Push It to victory in April.

“When I started off as a jockey I wanted to be champion jockey in my mind, and I have been lucky enough to be champion jockey for 15 years,” McCoy said at the awards’ ceremony in Birmingham. “But the Grand National is the biggest horse race in the world and everyone knows I had won all the other races, and to finally achieve that ... it was just an unbelievable day.”

The Northern Irishman jumps jockey — known as A.P. McCoy — won 42 percent of the public

Jockey Tony McCoy wins BBC Sport Personality of the Year 2010 at the LG Arena, Birmingham, England, Sunday Dec. 19, 2010. (AP Photo/PA, David Davies).

vote, finishing ahead of darts player Phil Taylor and world heptathlon champion Jessica Ennis.

Samuel Eto’o

Pitino to coach Puerto Rico in Olympic qualifying MIAMI (AP) — Former NBA coach Rick Pitino will lead Puerto Rico’s national team next year in hopes of qualifying for the 2012 London Olympics.

The Puerto Rico basketball federation on Monday introduced Pitino as its next coach. Pitino met with players and officials Sunday to discuss the possibility.

Puerto Rico last qualified for the Olympics in 2004, beating the United States on its way to a sixth-place finish.

Its best Olympic performance was fourth, in 1964 in Tokyo.

Potential players for the qualifying tournament in Argentina include Dallas Mavericks point guard J.J. Barea, Miami Heat guard Carlos Arroyo and Denver Nuggets forward Renaldo Balkman.

Pitino has coached at the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics in the NBA.

Jean Pascal, of Montreal, right, hits Bernard Hopkins, of the USA, with a right hand during their WBC light heavy weight championship fight Saturday, Dec. 18, 2010 at the Quebec Colisee.

Hopkins held to draw by Pascal QUEBEC CITY (AP) — Bernard Hopkins missed a chance to become the oldest boxer to hold a major world title, fighting to a technical draw with Canadian Jean Pascal in their light heavyweight bout on Saturday.

The 45-year-old Hopkins (51-5-2) rallied after being knocked down in the first and third rounds.

American judge Steve Morrow scored it 114-112 for Hopkins, but Canadian Claude Paquette (113-113) and Belgium’s Daniel Van de Wiele (114-114) had it even, which made it a technical draw and allowed Pascal (26-1-1) to keep his WBC and IBO light heavyweight titles.

Hopkins will be 46 on Jan. 15.

George Foreman was 45 years, 10 months when he knocked out heavyweight champion Michael Moorer in 1994. Hopkins said he wants a rematch, but not in Canada.

“I come to Canada and face a 28-year-old guy and I get a draw, at 45 years old?” Hopkins said in amazement. “You saw a young guy running from an old grandpa.”

Hopkins complained that it was a blow to the back of the head that caused him to go down in the final seconds of the first, but Montreal referee Michael Griffin scored it a knockdown.

The knockdown was more clearcut in the third when Pascal tagged the former middleweight king from Philadelphia with a left. Hopkins dropped to the canvas and got up quickly.

The Haiti-born Pascal, making the fourth defense of the WBC belt he won from fellow Montreal fighter Adrian Diaconu in June 2009, wore down and was hit repeatedly in the final six rounds.

“I thought I won,” said Pascal, whose face was swollen and red after the bout while Hopkins came away with just a few scrapes. “It wasn’t my best fight, but Bernard likes to fight dirty.

“I dropped him twice. We have fair judges in Canada.”

Hopkins launched a desperate flurry in the final round but failed to put Pascal down.

December 22 - January 8, 2011

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

29

Monster Energy Drink Cricket League:

Beaches still undefeated MARTINIQUE Williams snarled four wickets for 20 runs from four overs to keep Beaches undefeated in the Monster Energy Drink Twenty20 Cricket League.

The 90-run victory ended the hot-handed Jamaican All-Stars’ undefeated run.

Batting first at the Downtown Ball Park Beaches tallied an impressive 191-5 from their allotted overs.

Ricardo Brown led the attack with 43 runs (4X4s, 2X6s), while Anthony McKnight and Osmond Sicard chipped in with 33 runs each.

Fast bowlers Calvin Aaron and Damian Young nabbed two wickets apiece.

Even the return of Austin Francis could not stop Williams from dominating as wickets fell with

Ricardo Brown scored 43 runs for the undefeated Beaches.

consistency before it was exhausted with just 111 runs on the board.

Francis finished with 23 runs.

Gabriel Diotte Joly scored five goals for the undefeated Sharks.

The attacking Kristoff Malcolm had an unusual day as he assisted more than he scored.

Provo Hockey League:

Dragons burn Gators and Owls Ira Baptiste is still one of the most feared batsmen in Providenciales.

Rohan Ash scored a half century for Police.

Baptiste and Ash tame the Jaguars THE POLICE cricket team gained revenge over their nemesis the Guyana Jaguars after they recorded a big 93-run victory over the defending league champions.

National batsmen Ira Baptiste and Rohan Ash blasted half centuries to push the lawmen to a whopping 217 in 20 overs, before Garvin Bruno took the ball and registered three crushing blows to the Jaguars which left them crippled at 124 in the 18th over.

The hard hitting Baptiste slammed five towering sixes while he stroked five fours. Ash, who played well at the islands’ last ICC competition, chipped in with 51 (7X4s).

Young Mark Henry took 3-37 from four overs, but the Jaguars could not match the fire power of the Police’s batsmen.

John Dolphin scored 35 while Earl Henry supported with 32 for the losing side.

THE COCO Bistro Dragons got an early Christmas gift when they stormed to back-to-back victories last Saturday in the Provo Hockey League.

The Dragons now have five wins in nine games, behind current leaders the Grace Bay Car Rentals and Sales’ Owls who have eight wins in 10 games. The two teams will battle for the top spot when the league continues in early January.

Led by six goals from Jamie Gray and five goals from Orin Campbell the Dragons clawed past the Gansevoort Gators 12-6 in the first encounter. Gray also had an assist while Joshua Saunders scored the other goal. Dylan Ayer fired in five goals for the Gators (one victory in the league).

The Dragons whipped the Owls

(only their second defeat) 11-3. Gray led the attack with four and Campbell had two.

Sebastian Turbyfield chipped in with three goals for the Owls.

TCBC DIVISION THE ding-dong battle between the two midget teams the Twa Marcelin Wolf Pirates and the J & W Construction Flames continued at the Graceway Sports Centre with the Flames registering a10-5 win.

Christian Robinson fired in four goals while Luis Turbyfield had two with one assist.

Also playing the supporting role was Kristoff Malcolm who scored two goals, but assisted in four others.

Jeremy and Patrick Lemoine scored three and two goals respectively for the Pirates.

BANTAM DIVISION The Saunders and Co Hurricanes are yet to secure their second win in the league; despite a fair performance against the Star Foundation Lightning, the Hurricanes succumbed 4-2.

Livingston Ferdinand scored three goals and made the other assist, while Jack Small connected with the hockey stick twice for the Hurricanes.

The Palms/The Sands Sharks, who have not been beaten this season, then carried the Hurricanes to their second defeat of the day at 9-4.

Gabriel Diotte-Joly scored five goals while he made three assists.

Cierra Edross assisted with two goals.

For the Hurricanes Kennon Higgs scored three.

Josh for Sports

The Legendary Hank Aaron WHEN the pioneers of baseball organised the first Major League in 1876, little did they envision the evolution of the talent and proliferation of popularity that would make their game literally “America’s past time”.

Their fields were uneven, their park archaic, their equipment crude and their players crusty and hardfisted. Yet, amazingly, the rules and regulations that governed the game on the field for more than a century have withstood the passage of time, changing very little in all those years.

That perhaps, is the beauty of baseball and the reason its fans have remained faithful and have passed their enthusiasm from generations to generations; that also is the reason that judgments can be made on its

superstars. The players play the same game, under the same set of rules with the same basic goals—entertainment and victory.

It is a tribute to baseball that of the thousands and thousands of players who have worn Major League uniforms, only a little over 200 are inducted into the “Best of the Best”—the Baseball Hall of Fame.

It is also a tribute that those selected include a diverse list of players, managers, officials, arbitrators, pioneers and the Negro League greats, who were denied the opportunity to play on Major League fields because of the colour barrier.

These men span the existence of the game itself.

HANK AARON

The pressure was almost suffocating;

By Joshua Gardiner

everywhere he went cameras focused on him. Every step he took was followed by a coterie of newsmen that would have made an oil prince proud. Hank Aaron was living in a goldfish bowl at centre stage and

under blinding spotlight.

Whether another public figure could have retained his composure under such circumstances is doubtful.

Aaron was in methodical pursuit of Babe Ruth’s lifetime Major League home run record of 74, held sacred since the Babe’s retirement in 1935— the closer he drew to the mark the less privacy he enjoyed.

None of this changed him, but the pressure on the Atlanta Braves outfielder started to build during the 1973 season when he clouted 40 home runs, climbing within two of breaking Ruth’s all-time standard.

Aaron was 39 and in his 20th Major League season (this was also the year I returned to university). Also one of his team-mates was Wenty Ford, a Bahamian born and raised super-star all rounder whom I had

known for many years before he was killed in an unfortunate car crash late one morning coming home from work at the Cable Beach Casino in Nassau.

On the first swing of the next season, Aaron tied Ruth’s mark by tagging Jack Billingham’s pitch for a home run at Riverfront Stadium in Cincinnati. Aaron sat out the second game of the series, and then failed to connect in the third game.

Eventually Aaron hit 75 home runs.

Aaron, a native of Mobile Alabama, was a skinny short-stop with Indianapolis in the Negro American League, when he was discovered by Dewey Griggs, a scout for the Braves. For $10,000 the National League Club acquired him on June 14th, 1952.

30

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 22 - January 8, 2011

TEXT AND PHOTOS BY

faizool deo

Cricket federation will look to increase public awareness in 2011 CRICKET, which is touted as the national sport of the Turks and Caicos Islands, will be given a push next year when the local governing body, the TCI Cricket Federation, tries to market the game more.

Information from the president of the TCICF, Michael Pereira, indicates that a number of strategies are planned for the New Year.

High on the agenda will be the promotion of the game in schools, while public awareness, especially at the community level, is also a desired result.

Pereira pointed out that the federation will also follow the guidelines as prescribed by the world governing body, the International Cricket Council (ICC), and hire a part-time employee.

He added that one of the objectives of the federation would be to attract new players to the game.

The game is played mostly in Providenciales and Grand Turk; the former has a larger base with more tournament structures, while the latter has a better developmental programme in place.

KNOWING THE RULES One way of developing the sport is by having qualified persons to teach it. Pereira said that as it is there are 13 level one coaches in the TCI. Twelve persons recently participated in a level one coaching course which was conducted by

Marco Fenelus is currently the leading candidate for the golden boot award.

Men’s Football League:

The Turks and Caicos Islands’ Cricket Federation president Michael Pereira is hoping for a productive 2011.

Garvin Bruno, who has proven himself with both bat and ball, is one of 12 cricket enthusiasts, who have completed the level one coaching course. That group will now help take the game forward in the TCI.

Regional Development Officer for the Americans in the ICC Wendell Coppin.

Pereira said that the cricket federation will hold a developmental programme in January and the new coaches will lend their expertise.

The coaching course took place earlier this month in Providenciales

with classroom work done at the Police Canteen and the practical aspect of the course at the Downtown Ball Park.

The participants were: Terrence Thomas, Garvin Bruno, Ian Ganess, Sean Khan, Dwight Myrie, Richard Bobb, Winston Quelch, Karim Jack, Sonia Rigby, John Dolphin, Jessie Alexander and Nichola Watson.

Fenelus leads golden boot chase YOUTH Player-of-the-Year Marco Fenelus is leading in the goal scoring department and is eying this season’s MFL’s Golden Boot award.

Fenelus, who was instrumental for the AFC Academy (defending champions) in the MFL last season, has romped to 10 goals at the Christmas break for his new team the AFC Nationals.

Taking the most-goal award will be no easy task since Lenford Singh (a former winner), is not backing down from the

challenge. He has accumulated eight goals for the current leaders Provopool FC; following closely behind are Navar Cumberland (Provopool) and Bobby Kwatt (AFC Academy).

Provopool FC have dominated the league. They have accumulated 21 points from seven wins in seven games. The AFC Academy are second with 13 points from eight games while the AFC Nationals have secured seven points and the SWA Sharks three.

Winter Touch Rugby League:

Great White Sharks take commanding lead THE GREAT White Sharks have destroyed their opponents in the Winter Touch Rugby League and have closed for the Christmas break with an imposing 15-point lead.

The White Sharks, who have only lost a single game, to the Red Arrows 4-2, are comfortably ahead on the points table with 32: 10 wins in 12 games.

Second place is occupied by the Red Arrows (17 points), who prior to beating the Sharks drew with them 2-2, while the Black Mambas have 15 points and the Blue Buccaneers nine.

Both the White Sharks and the Red Arrows are playing structured games.

Public Relations Officer of the TCIRFU Gareth Butler said that the White Sharks have a good combination of experience and speed: “They have a number of experienced players (Simon Taylor, Keith Burant, Chris Davies and Fraser Dods), who, whilst not being the quickest on the field, read the game well and put the guys like Dean Griffith,

Preston Burant and Wrenshaw, who do have pace, into the gaps. They are also managing their roster well.”

Butler stressed on the Red Arrows’ tactics: “The Red Arrows are also playing a structured game and are using some interesting tactics that are playing to their team’s strengths – long restarts for Luis Turbyfield to chase and midfield switches to take advantage of the space created on the field when we are only playing five-on-five.”

Credit was given to the skipper of the Red Arrows’ team Mark Parrish. Butler however pointed out that the Blue Buccaneers have struggled with their Captain Blair Mason being injured while they have also failed to garner sufficient players on a regular occasion.

He said the Black Mambas have played well at times, but they lack juniors which have resulted in them playing approximately 50% of their game with a man down.

The Great White Sharks have gouged on their opponents in the Winter Touch Rugby League.

December 22 - January 8, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

31

32

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 22 - January 8, 2011