TCWN December 7 - 13, 2013 by TC Weekly News

Weekly News Volume 27 | No. 49| December 7 - 13, 2013

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Arthur maintains

innocence – ‘Piper’ questions AG’s public statements 4 PAGE 

LOCAL pilot Richardson ‘Ritchie’ Arthur and former Minister of Natural Resources, McAllister ‘Piper’ Hanchell have both spoken out following public statements by the acting Attorney General regarding two court judgments that were handed down over the last week.

Foundation treasurer Cecil Arnold, member Lillian Boyce, chair Claudette Munroe-Clare, member and college vice president Samuel Forbes with cheque

Foundation raises nearly $55,000 for Community College PAGE  10 Minister insists Gov’t travel is vital for growth PAGE 9

UK calls on TCI to implement a simplified tax system PAGE 

Hundreds attend Conch Festival PAGE 26

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013

Sentenced land flipper maintains his innocence

– ‘Piper’ questions AG’s public statements LOCAL pilot Richardson ‘Ritchie’ Arthur and former Minister of Natural Resources, McAllister ‘Piper’ Hanchell have both spoken out following public statements by the acting Attorney General regarding two court judgments that were handed down over the last week. The Supreme Court found that Arthur acted unconscionably when he obtained land, valued at $200,000, at a gross undervalue of $50,000. However, he was cleared of a claim which alleged that he obtained the land by fraud. Arthur has since repaid the difference, but now owes the Crown $1.15 million of the $1.35 million he was paid for the land back in 2008. In his statement the pilot stated that the outcome is unfair to him as he has done no more than other Belongers who were also given land and then made their land available for development to the Shore Club development at a profit. “I wanted to build a house on the land but was later told that it was in the national interest for the land to be used as part of the Shore Club development. “A mistake was made at the land registry which resulted in the land being transferred to me for US$50,000 instead of the agreed price of US$200, 000,” his statement read. He added that he is disappointed that having paid the difference, the Attorney General still pursued him to recover the profit made on the sale of the land as he only did so because he was persuaded that the land would bring greater benefit to the TCI

through development by Shore Club than by him building a house on it. “The Shore Club is now under construction and will bring more benefits to the Government and people of the Turks and Caicos Islands than me building a house on the land could ever do. “The Government policy of empowering Belongers in this case has disempowered me,” Arthur stated. In that case, as well another involving former Director of Planning Clyde Robinson, the presiding judge found that Hanchell breached his fiduciary duties to the Crown by directing the use of an outof-date valuation in both cases. Following the judge’s decision, acting AG, Rhondalee BraithwaiteKnowles in a statement expressed her satisfaction for the win against Arthur and her disappointment at the loss of the Robinson case. The statement singled out Hanchell’s culpability in both cases, as found by the judge. In his statement to the press the former minister, who has himself faced the Civil Recovery Team for receiving land at an undervalue and won, expressed his disappointment at Braithwaite-Knowles statement. Hanchell said he felt obliged to respond to the acting AG’s statement in which she mentioned that the chambers is considering appealing the judge’s decision in the Robinson case. “The public must have grave concern as to the ongoing spending of its money without any accountability to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands by the acting Attorney

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Richardson ‘Ritchie’ Arthur

General and most notably the entire judiciary must take offence to her arrogance towards a sitting Supreme Court judge in a public statement. “As for me, the welcoming of the judge’s findings by the acting Attorney General is a total misrepresentation of what is inferred

in the decision and the selective reference to particular statements intended to create mischief against me,” Hanchell stated. He said he was not party to either proceedings and as such cannot comment further. “However, it is unfair that the

Attorney General sought to make me a central figure in the case, without joining me in as a defendant or calling me as a witness.” He further pointed to portion of the judgment in the Robinson case in which the judge stated: “Mr [Ariel] Misick also submits with some force that a court should be slow to find an allegation of dishonesty proved against someone who has not been made a party to the suit and from whom the court has not been heard. “I would also say that where what is in issue is a person’s state of mind, and Mr [David] Phillips has submitted that the minister’s state of mind is in issue, and the pleaded facts are consistent with two opposing inferences - mistake and dishonesty and the court has not had the benefit from the hearing from the person against whom the allegations are made, it is difficult for the court to draw a conclusion either way.” The former minister noted that it is troubling to all citizens of the country that the Attorney General would seek to publicly condemn him by a side wind, without giving him the opportunity of being heard.

UK calls on TCI to implement a simplified tax system MINISTER of the UK Department for International Development, Alan Duncan has conveyed to the Premier his hopes for the implementation of a simple tax system, as well as his disappointment that value added tax (VAT) was not implemented in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Premier Rufus Ewing met with Duncan during the recently concluded Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council (JMC) held from November 25 to 28. At a press conference on Wednesday (December 4) at his Providenciales offices, Ewing told the media that the minister was very encouraged by the TCI’s commitment on its Fiscal Policy Framework. This will allow the TCI the ability to pay down the $260 million loan, or at least contribute $80 to $100 million that will go towards paying down the bond by 2016, the Premier said. “He is encouraged by that. He has expressed his disappointment that we were unable to implement VAT but looks forward at least some time to putting a simplified taxation system in place after public consultations that will take place sometime next year.” The minister was also encouraged by the projected trajectory for the TCI economy, which he said looked

very good. Asked if Duncan gave a projected time for the implementation of a simplified tax system in the TCI, the Premier said his concern was more in the vein of the territory being able to borrow money without a loan guarantee. “If they [banks] see you have a way of paying it back that is fool proof or secure; that your taxation system is simplified and when you look at it you would not see a government that will go broke in a second… “I think that is what they are looking at with regard to a simplified taxation system that would give lenders confidence.” In addition to that, Ewing noted that in going forward the Government is looking towards achieving a credit rating for the TCI by 2016. “And that credit rating would be a double A or a triple A rating to look at the level of confidence that banks will have in that you can pay your bills or to grow your economy.” Asked if in hindsight the Government believes that VAT would have been better option, given the erratic rate of tax implementation over the past few months, the Premier said no. “I understand the various taxation methods that we had to put in to try

to stay afloat in the absence of VAT, but… I am of the view that VAT was not good for us.” He added that there are other and better taxation measures which Government hopes to implement following consultations next year on the options available. He added that it is their hope that they would not have to put VAT as an option. “VAT was discussed extensively in the past; but [now] others will be discussed and we have to come up with a decision on one method or the other.” He added that if after consultations and having looked at the options presented, the public wants VAT, then “so be it”. “But I think we need to have the opportunity to put forward the relevant options to the people, we just can’t at this stage abandon everything and say we are going to plug in VAT.” Asked if VAT would make it easier for the Government to access loans, the Premier stated that any taxation method - be it VAT or general services tax or any other taxation that is simple to collect, has a high rate of compliance with regard to collection and generates the right amount of money - then any bank will have the confidence to lend money. “It doesn’t have to be VAT.” (DI)

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013

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

Protecting young offenders

LAST week Opposition Leader Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson called out to the Government to make a new juvenile detention centre a priority after an 11-year-old was incarcerated in Her Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk. In an impassioned letter to press the PDM leader said a new facility has been far too long in the planning process and the welfare of child offenders is being jeopardised. Meanwhile Government stressed that creation of a new facility is at the top of their agenda. According to Amanda Missick, Minister of Environment, Home Affairs and Agriculture: “This is priority, this is very important. We are trying to do our best not to make hardened criminals of our youngsters.” In the Turks and Caicos Islands a person is considered fully responsible for a crime at the age of eight. What are your thoughts? Is it important to protect the welfare of young offenders? Has the Government been too long in creating a facility? Should children as young as eight be held responsible for criminal actions?

Avoid the situation

As I said before we need to educate children, bring in more teachers, set up facilities for children to spend their free time in a safe and educational environment, give them opportunities for sports, arts etc. And thus we will avoid having to have detention centres for eight-year-olds.

Parents are responsible

We most definitely need a juvenile facility here. Put them in with other offenders and they just come out better educated in criminal studies! The other item that seriously needs addressing is parental responsibility. What in God’s name is this 11-year-old doing, running around wild, doing these crimes? The parents need to be punished as well. Why is there not a test that has to be passed before you are allowed to reproduce? We do not let anyone drive a car without passing a test. Why should one be allowed to raise a child without it?

Remote location

We needed this building five years ago when our young people were exposed to things never seen before. To a police force who ignored law breakers. Perhaps it could be placed on one of the family islands where the building and inhabitants will be remote from temptation. The centre will need to have staff trained in rehabilitation.

World is watching

Whatever happened to the Convention of the Rights of the Child? It is pretty dismal for a so called modern nation to be prosecuting a child of eight for becoming a criminal and sending the child to jail. The concept of accountability throughout history demarked the pivot point where boy becomes man. For example, the Jews allow their boys to become men at age 12. Is the TCI bar mitzvah at eight-years-old now? Tell me this, when can they buy rum, vote for a ruler in an election, leave school? Parents must be responsible for their schooling, buy food for them, cut their backside if they don’t do homework. Remember on Jesus’ 12th birthday his mother scolded him for wandering off to preach. He answered that “know ye not that I must be about my father's business/work”. So are we saying that if an eight-year-old is ‘responsible’ even to jail for crimes? Then can we say that they become men at that age? Am I sounding ridiculous as yet? It doesn’t matter anyhow, but that’s how the rest of the world is looking at the TCI.

Not alone

Juvenile crime has become a bigger and bigger problem in the last 10 years. The 11-year-old grew up in the years 2003 until now. He only knows what he saw around him. Allegedly corruption and ignoring the law was everywhere. He is not alone. It’s the

younger folks who matured during this period. We need the building and people trained to handle our youth who have gone astray.

Answer questions

Hon Cartwright is making political statements and agenda on every little thing people put on Facebook. Opposition has a job but there should be method to every madness. Use the media thoughtfully and within reason. Madame leader of the PDM should be cautious that educated people might find fault in her noise. What is the real reason why a juvenile centre was never was built before? Do we have enough offenders to merit our own centre? And last but not least does the Government have money in its budget to afford such monstrous undertaking at this moment? I want Madame leader PDM to answer these questions. She is in all the budget debates in parliament. I do not want anyone to play with my emotions.

Too young

From my point of view a child at the age of eight shouldn’t be responsible for his crime as at that age they are still learning and discovering what is right and what is wrong. If you judge an eight-year-old for a crime and send him to Grand Turk, that child might even get raped or abused by others in there. He won’t mind because for him it is jail. He won’t fully understand what all this is about. Some of the kids need love and their parents’ attention therefore they might do stupid things just to get it. We need a wad for those crazy people to help them get better and advisors to help kids get on track - not locking them up.

 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

TCI to seek UK support for teacher development THE TURKS and Caicos Islands, through the Ministry of Education, is hoping to access support from the United Kingdom Jubilee Fund for capacity building to promote the professional development of teachers. Deputy Premier and Minister of Education, Akierra Missick told the media on Wednesday (December 4) that the TCI was invited to consider accessing support from the Jubilee Fund during meetings she attended at the Joint Ministerial Council in London last week. She said this support is available to the overseas territories (OTs), and in addition to providing teachers with professional development, it also provides funding for the integration of technology in the day-to-day learning in schools.

“We have already commenced the necessary steps in writing to the Jubilee Fund since returning on Saturday (November 31),” she said. Meanwhile, discussions were also held on forging partnership links with local schools and similar institutions in the UK. “I created food for thought with our UK counterpart, particularly the FCO, in requesting a review of the system of the OTs citizens seeking access to the UK student loans system programme,” Missick said. This, she added, will provide support for TCI students in the UK with UK student loans. “We also gave the UK kudos for the introduction of their apprenticeship programme and I sought a way to secure

some places within the programme for TC Islanders or British citizens living in the TCI.” She added that her ministry will be advertising the programmes to be offered, and encourages people to take advantage of the opportunities to be offered. The minister and other delegates at the JMC hosted TCI students studying in the UK at a social gathering on Friday, November 29; they spoke with the students about the progress of their work and concerns they have. She also attended meetings on areas of concern that do not fall under her ministerial portfolio. One such was a meeting addressing judiciary issues. She said in terms of the judiciary, there was an offer of training from

the Crown Prosecution Services Department to build capacity in the TCI with members of the Director of Public Prosecution’s (DPP) office. The minister stated that she and the Governor of the British Virgin Islands, Boyd McCleary - which has already benefitted from the programme - are collaborating on how they can devise or garner funding for the same sort of training in the TCI. She also had discussions on child protection and rights of the child. These discussions centred on non-governmental organisations (NGO) that are affiliated with children groups and the sort of mechanisms to be put in place to ensure that members of these groups are of an acceptable character and are not sexual offenders or predators. (DI)

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

TCI’s presentation at UK meeting lauded GOVERNOR Peter Beckingham, Premier Rufus Ewing and Deputy Premier and Education Minister, Akierra Missick have all made positive reports on the Overseas Territories (OTs) Joint Ministerial Council (JMC) meeting held in London last week. At a press conference at the Hilly Ewing Building in Providenciales on Wednesday (December 4), the three officials reported on the strides made by the local delegates during the four days of meetings. Governor Beckingham had high praise for the Premier and the Deputy Premier on their representation of the Turks and Caicos Islands at the JMC. “On a TCI level, I was very struck that the TCI team made a really big impact at the meeting. I thought that the Premier and the Deputy Premier were very active in their participation. “They contributed right through the discussions both with the ministers and separately,” Beckingham said. He observed that at the investment event held at Lancaster House on the last day, the TCI ‘out shone’ the others as a lot of work had gone into their preparations, as well as the fact that he, along with Ewing and Missick spent the entire day engaging potential investors. As a result of this, the Governor said they have already had approaches and follow up discussions with potential investors. Echoing the Governor’s sentiments, Premier Ewing thanked the Foreign Office Minister for the Overseas Territories, Mark Simmonds and Minister for the United Kingdom Department for International Development, Alan Duncan for being very receptive to the TCI team. “I think this is the first time I can say that we actually went to the UK and had numerous opportunities to meet with the ministers one on one for more than half an hour in bilateral meetings.” In the meeting with Minister Simmonds, the TCI team outlined the challenges facing the territory in the areas of governance, immigration, financial and social issues; seeking the UK’s assistance in these areas. Ewing said they spoke specifically to how the minister can provide assistance or lend support in the area of illegal immigration. “That particular issue was also related to Minister Duncan who has committed to taking a closer look at it and who has committed to possibly looking at supporting our marine police branch so as to further beef up our borders.” The Premier clarified that the minister promised to “look at” the issue, adding that there has been no solid commitment. Another major topic for discussion was the economy. Ewing noted that even though some of the British Overseas Territories rank among the highest GDP in the world, all are experiencing some form of economic challenge.

Governor Peter Beckingham

Premier Rufus Ewing

Deputy Premier and Education Minister, Akierra Missick

To this end, consensus was achieved that there needs to be diversification and strengthening of their individual economies. It was agreed that a supportive business environment needs to be created as well as one which focuses on inward investment and building capacity with the various trade and investment units of the OTs. The TCI team also shared with the minister the work on the country’s infrastructure pipeline, its efforts at strengthening investment and the creation of a public private partnership policy and framework which is intended to advance the country’s efforts in ensuring financial sustainability through inward investment. “The UK minister was receptive to the idea of the various infrastructure pipelines that are being developed and the concept that we will have to undertake given the fact that we are unable to borrow before 2016,” Premier Ewing reported. Meanwhile, the issue of governance also came up for

discussion with the minister. “In that meeting a commitment was made and we reiterated our self-determination as it relates to independence [and] the UK is committed to supporting and upholding the wishes of the people through any kind of referendum if they choose to go independent even though the UK would prefer for us not to. “But they will support it if that is the wish of the people,” the Premier said. He added that support was also shown for any necessary constitutional amendments within the various territories, but that even those have their limits. “There were some issues with regard to whether or not one constitution could be used across the territories; but the minister was adamant that while they realise that there are needs for constitutional advancements, one cannot fit all, in the sense that the territories are different and you will have need for variations within the various

constitutions.” In the area of health and accessing care in the UK through the National Health Service (NHS), the Premier said all of the territories were looking to the UK for an increase in this particular quota. “TCI is the recipient of five cases per year that can be referred to the UK for care in the NHS system. “Those cases are usually reserved for catastrophic type cases, cases that such as open heart surgery, heart transplant, cases that can cost in the thousands of dollars in this region.” He added they would be conducting more work to increase the quota, and that these discussions will be between the territories and the NHS and the various trust within the body. “Also, opportunities were presented for procurement of drugs and medicine in the UK. “We intend to benefit from the bulk procurement of drugs by the NHS, if we partner with them to source medications through the

NHS thereby lowering the cost of medication being delivered to persons who are part of the NHIB system and the primary healthcare system in the TCI.” He added that a lot of follow up work will be done in those two areas of healthcare. In terms of the investment conference, the Premier reiterated the Governor’s statement that the TCI stood out at that event. He said he was encouraged by the number of participants as the team was able to meet with potential investors to put the country in line for some major investment projects in the future. The leaders agreed to publish their investment policies setting out how they propose to offer their attractions to inward investors. There was also an agreement to commission research to look at how the overseas territories can become more competitive, more resilient and could reduce their vulnerabilities, Governor Beckingham noted. There has not been a decision on who will conduct the research, but the Governor stated that it will be funded by the foreign office. All of the territories also agreed to work with UK development bodies, such as UK Trade and Investment, and to make better use of the international network of British Embassies, High Commissions and Governor’s Offices, a release from the Governor’s Office stated. It added that more work will be undertaken to develop employment and education opportunities, including accessing vocational training for the people of the OTs. A copy of the JMC communiqué s available at www.gov.uk (search for JMC communique). (DI)

Opposition chides CARICOM on lack of involvement DURING a recent visit by a Caribbean Community (CARICOM) delegation to the Turks and Caicos Islands the Opposition party took the opportunity to express its disappointment at the lack of involvement by the regional body in times of difficulty in member states. This is according to a PDM press statement following the November 26 meeting with the delegates and PDM officials - Opposition Leader, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, Party Chairman, Clarence Selver, Goldray Ewing and Josephine Connolly. During that meeting the local politicians expressed their disappointment at CARICOM’s failure to make a strong statement or take any real action when the TCI’s constitution was suspended. They also spoke of its current handling of the Haitian/Dominican

Republic dispute in the context of the violence shown and now brewing between the nations. “The Opposition told the delegation that it is in such situations, it believes that CARICOM must show itself strong even though it appreciates that there is a delicate balance between respecting country’s sovereignty and the intervening core representative role of CARICOM,” the PDM statement read. CARICOM’s main purposes are to promote economic integration and cooperation among its members, to ensure that the benefits of integration are equitably shared, and to coordinate foreign policy. The Opposition Leader also raised concerns she had with the regional body. “The Turks and Caicos Islands has been an associate member since 1991 and has benefited in many ways

from the community but there is much that can be achieved together and the Opposition supports a more proactive, supportive, recognised and respected CARICOM voice. “In order for CARICOM to achieve this, there is a need for a stronger presence in the region and a greater level of support from governments, oppositions and civil society alike,” Cartwright Robinson is quoted in the statement. Meanwhile, the CARICOM team was in the TCI at the time conducting a two day consultation exercise – one of several around the region – since November 25 with national stakeholders. The views solicited are intended to shape part of a five year strategic plan being devised, which will be geared towards ensuring the regional body can better serve its member and associate members. The Opposition Leader told

the delegates that she believes the plan would aid in encouraging greater participation among member states. She and her party members also shared their vision for CARICOM with the team, citing various areas as key priorities while stressing the important role of Governments in carrying out CARICOM’s mission, the party statement said. Among its priorities ought to be a “living presence” in the member states and better communication, the PDM believes. The party also contended that other critical priorities should also include Caribbean oneness, education, health, food security, tourism, crime and security, environment, climate change, energy security, trade, economy, immigration, archive support and more interaction on all levels in the member states.

NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Airport redevelopment will provide more job opportunities BY DAISY HANDFIELD REDEVELOPMENT of Providenciales International Airport will provide further job opportunities and almost double the current number of shops available for retailers to rent. That is according to John Smith, chief executive officer (CEO) for the Turks and Caicos Islands Airport Authority (TCIAA), who spoke to media at the airport on Thursday (December 5). The CEO was unable to give an exact figure of the amount of jobs that the project will create, but did confirm that hiring was already taking place with some already enrolled in security provision. “There is currently security training running which is the second one for the year and we are also looking into extending additional cleaners and others.” Smith said that the project would almost double shopping and recreational amenities and the TCI will see its first ‘shopping upon arrival’ section for incoming travellers. “What they are looking to introduce for the first time is shops on arrival and what that does is cater to individuals that are arriving and going to resorts or condos and they’d like to buy drinks on arrival because the airlines don’t allow them to take drinks on board.” In the United States when people rent out the space for a shop they have to pay a fee and also give a percentage of what they make, but Smith says that would be too complex to integrate in the TCI. “The way we market is slightly different, we rent the space to you,” he explained. “In most airports what you may have is a different setup and that is you rent the space, you pay so much for the space and you share a percentage of your profits. “I couldn’t imagine introducing that here and being rather successful so we try not to take on things that are rather challenging and might not

Nelson Mandela was a living legend.

Glimpse of redevelopment of the Provo International Airport

work.” The CEO said that new toilets will be completed within the next 14 days and then the old toilets opposite Gilley’s restaurant will be demolished to make room for more check-in space. Some 48 check-in kiosks will be available in that section of the airport, giving travellers the opportunity to check-in to any of the carriers flying out of the TCI. The domestic bathrooms are expected to feature touch less flush toilets and urinals, new diaper changing stations, cotemporary light features, marble countertops, stainless steel high efficiency faucets, modern individual hand basins, multiple easy to use hand towel dispensers and floor to the ceiling tiles. The CEO said that the domestic and international check-in bathrooms have been redesigned. Smith went on to say that the workers have been putting in overtime to redevelop the airport terminal with the newly curved roof already installed on both ends. This is made up of an environmentally friendly wood called glulam. At the centre of the roof a new metal building is being erected to add office space with views of the airport surroundings. Smith said that the chosen metal

framing is currently being built and will easily connect the old metal framing to the new addition. When asked if this was the most complex infrastructure that the TCI has ever seen taken on, he was quick to object. He said: “The Turks and Caicos has seven story buildings, they have some of the best designed structures in the Caribbean, arguably. “This is one of the things that I feel very proud about, the fact that we’re able to use all local individual contractors to do this and we didn’t have to look outside of the TCI.” Smith said that the contractors involved in this project are all TCI companies with over 80 per cent of Turks Islanders working on the redevelopment. He went on to say that phase one, the runway extension, was closed off with 91 per cent of the work coming from local companies. Smith said that stakeholders are kept involved on what areas are going to be available when, areas that will be suffering more disruption from others, mitigating factors that will be put in place and engaging them to find out how they can assist or hearing any inputs. Construction of phase one began in 2010 and was completed in July, 2011. Phase two is expected to be completed by the end of 2014.

TCI gets funding to preserve pine trees HAILED an important win for the Turks and Caicos Islands at the recent Joint Ministerial Council in London was the commitment of £200,000 for a major study on the preservation of the Caicos pine. Premier Rufus Ewing made the announcement on his return to the TCI this past week. The grant will be provided over a course of two years to help preserve the endangered pine trees. The money is part of the UK £2 million support for the environmental assets of the overseas territories, which account for around 90 per cent of all British biodiversity.

“In a separate meeting in the House of Commons on the environment, we had the opportunity to share what TCI is doing as part of its commitment for preservation of the environment at the same time while balancing development and the challenges that we are having and what we are doing to correct them,” the Premier told the media on Wednesday (December 4). He noted that a commitment was made as part of the diversification of the TCI economy; to include ecotourism as one of the areas within tourism the country will expand into. “So we will be taking on a number

of legislative changes within the National Parks Ordinance that will facilitate some these eco-tourism developments. “And we welcome the support and funding to the tune of £200,000 for the preservation of the Caicos pine, our national tree.” For some time now the tree has been under immediate threat from the pine tortoise scale, an invasive insect pest. Local and international conservationists have been working on the Caicos Pine Recovery Project to save the tree from extirpation through a number of conservation measures. (DI)

South Africa’s Nelson Mandela dies in Johannesburg SOUTH Africa’s first black president and anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela died on Thursday. Mr Mandela, 95, led South Africa’s transition from whiteminority rule in the 1990s, after 27 years in prison. He had been receiving intense home-based medical care for a lung infection after three months in hospital. In a statement on South African national TV, Mr Zuma said Mr Mandela had “departed” and was at peace. “Our nation has lost its greatest son,” Mr Zuma said. He said Mr Mandela would receive a full state funeral, and flags would be flown at half-mast. BBC correspondents say Mr Mandela’s body will be moved to a mortuary in Pretoria, and the funeral is likely to take place next Saturday. The Nobel Peace Prize laureate was one of the world’s most revered statesmen after preaching reconciliation despite being imprisoned for 27 years. He had rarely been seen in public since officially retiring in 2004. “What made Nelson Mandela great was precisely what made him human. We saw in him what “Fellow South Africans, Nelson Mandela brought us together and it is together that we will bid him farewell.” UK Prime Minister David Cameron paid tribute to Mr Mandela, saying “a great light has

gone out in the world”. Earlier, the BBC’s Mike Wooldridge, outside Mr Mandela’s home in the Johannesburg suburb of Houghton, said there appeared to have been an unusually large family gathering. A number of government vehicles were there during the evening as well, our correspondent says. Since he was released from hospital, the South African presidency repeatedly described Mr Mandela’s condition as critical but stable. Born in 1918, Nelson Mandela joined the African National Congress (ANC) in 1943, as a law student. He and other ANC leaders campaigned against apartheid (white-only rule). He was sentenced to life imprisonment in 1964, but was released in 1990 as South Africa began to move away from strict racial segregation. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 and was elected South Africa’s first black president in 1994. He stepped down after five years in office. After leaving office, he became South Africa’s highest-profile ambassador, campaigning against HIV/Aids and helping to secure his country’s right to host the 2010 football World Cup. He was also involved in peace negotiations in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi and other countries in Africa and elsewhere. (BBC)

Man charged with stealing power A BLUE Hills man was charged with illegally abstracting electricity this week. Lindaniec Robinson, 47, was fingered by a Fortis TCI employee who made allegations against him

on Monday, August 12. Robinson has been given bail and ordered to appear at a magistrate’s court on Thursday, December 12, when he is scheduled to enter a plea.

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS

Minister insists Gov’t travel is vital for growth

– Opposition says cut backs must be made “IF WE stay home in isolation then we’ll be left behind and have to watch the rest of the world expand its horizons and wonder what’s happened.” Minister of Government Support Services George Lightbourne explained the importance of Government travel to the Weekly News this week. In an email he sent to the newspaper from an official visit to Jamaica, the minister stressed that much is to be gained from trips to other countries. “In order for your leaders to implement policies they must connect with their counterparts, they must collaborate and share information,” he said. The message came just weeks after Leader of the Opposition Sharlene Cartwright Robinson hit out at the amount of official trips taken by Government members. She graded them a sarcastic A++ for travel on a mock year-end report

card, in which she ‘praised’ their eagerness to explain the benefits of each trip. On Wednesday (December 4) she told the Weekly News: “With a few years without a political presence within the region and internationally, I expect the new Government to travel especially to promote the Islands for tourism and investment. “However many of the trips that I know were made were of no national value, information could have been acquired otherwise or a technocrat could have gone. “We have had occasions where a minister attended a technocrat level conference. I find that embarrassing. “It would be useful if the Government would prioritise the areas and base travel on those priorities. I believe as it is now the travel appears excessive.” This week nine senior members of TCI Government were on official trips to Brussels in Belgium and Jamaica, while last week three others

Minister of Government Support Services George Lightbourne says Government travel is essential

were in London in England. The Weekly News caught up with Lightbourne during his trip to Jamaica for the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) and Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) conferences. He stressed that the meetings are “extremely important” as the TCI is a member state of both agencies. “I would urge persons to go

online and read up on them,” he said, “I’m sure they would be amazed how important it is for Turks and Caicos to not just attend these meetings but also actively engage and participate in them.” He said that the benefits to the Turks and Caicos Islands’ people are enormous. “We live in a global city, we are all interconnected by demographics and technology and it is important for us to forge closer ties with our Caribbean neighbours and to also capitalise on the knowledge and opportunity available.” The minister explained that CTU is an entity of CARICOM, an organisation that has a primary focus to coordinate, facilitate and to formulate policies to direct and become the basis upon which information communication and technology policies are born, governed and accessed. “It is my intention as minister to create and encourage an environment that facilitates growth and awareness and create a platform that is conducive for entrepreneurship,” he said. “There are no reasons why our citizens cannot be apps and software

producers, there are no reasons why our citizens cannot form companies out of their basements through information and communication technology and become multimillionaire by exporting their productions.” Accompanying Lightbourne to the CDEMA conference in Montego Bay were Russell Cox, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Government Support Services, Virginia Clerveaux, director of the Department of Disaster management and Emergencies, and Brian Been from the Turks and Caicos Tourist Board. The eighth annual Caribbean Conference on Comprehensive Disaster Management began on Monday (December 2) and finished on Friday (December 6). On Thursday (December 5) Clerveaux chaired a session on Social Investment for Disaster Resilience. The annual conference is the Caribbean’s premier event on disaster risk management and is also regarded as the regional forum of the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (ISDR) global platform. More than 400 delegates were expected to attend the event held at the Hilton Rose Hall Resort and Spa. (RB)

Evidence closes in case against former Conch Farm CEO FORMER bookkeeper Harolean Taylor appeared in Providenciales Supreme Court on Monday (December 2) as part of the court battle between the former and current operators of the Caicos Conch Farm to recover company documents. She was called to answer questions relating to the accounting operations of owners Trade Wind Industries. Taylor, who is also pursuing a matter with the Labour Tribunal against her former employers, told the court that she was the only person with access to the Peachtree accounting system where she kept the company accounts. Under examination by plaintiff’s lawyer, Monique Allan, Taylor substantiated the former CEO Chuck Hesse’s - testimony that he did not have access to the Peachtree programme. She pointed out that during the period of hurricanes Hanna and Ike the company documents, which were normally kept in a fire proof cabinet in her office, were removed for safekeeping into a concrete building in the same compound. Taylor said they were later replaced in the cabinets in her office, where they remained until she left the company in 2010. The former employee told the court that while she had installed the Peachtree programme on Hesse’s computer, he had an older version from the one she used. She also testified that while

she would transfer Peachtree documents to the defendant’s computer via a USB drive, he did not have access to her accounting programme and as such could not make changes from within that programme. This led Allan to present various documents to the witness for her identification as documents she created in the Peachtree programme while still employed at the Conch Farm. A few of the document’s additions which were made, Taylor told the court, could have been done from another accounting programme such as QuickBooks, quarto pro or another accounting system. When asked if Hesse could have manipulated the numbers in the Peachtree programme, Taylor maintained that he did not have the password. She added that if he did manipulate anything, it was not through her Peachtree programme. The lawyer then directed the witness to identify other documents which she claimed looked suspiciously like Peachtree documents. Upon examination, Taylor said that they appeared authentic. During his testimony in October, the former CEO testified that while he had copies of documents relating to the company, he did not have books of accounts for which the plaintiff is suing him. He also maintained that the documents in his possession are

documents available to anyone with a stake in the company. Meanwhile, following Taylor’s testimony, defence counsel, Peter McKnight submitted to Judge Margaret Ramsay-Hale that the statement of claim that TWI has filed against former Governor Ric Todd and the TCI Government should be included in the court documents of the Hesse case. His arguments were that the claim mentions breaches of the development agreement by the TCIG and Todd as well as loss of financing from a possible investor. The lawyer pointed out that the claim alleges that the financier reviewed the company’s financial documents in detail and conducted eight months of due diligence. McKnight reminded the court that TWI’s chairman John Hartley had testified that the company does not have any documents that can give a true account of the company’s position since Hesse’s dismissal. He questioned how a potential investor could have reviewed documents and done due diligence if TWI had no documents. He said the statement of claim is completely contrary to what the current operators are claiming in their case against his client. However, according to Allan those documents have no bearing on the matter currently before the court.

She stipulated that what a potential investor looked at is not evidence that the company has books of accounts. She added that what the investor looked at was a business plan. Meanwhile, Allan also brought to the court’s attention a summons she filed in July seeking an amendment to the originating summons which sought the recovery of books of account from Hesse. During his testimony in July and September Hesse disagreed with the plaintiff on what books of account are. He testified that books of account include documents such as income and balance statements, cash flow statements, shareholder equity as well as expense, assets and liabilities reports of the company. Hesse stated what the plaintiff is alleging to be books of account, are not. The plaintiff’s amendment encompasses all documents relating to the business and operation of the company. Allan told the judge that the amendment would in no way prejudice the defendant as it makes it a much simpler exercise as she would not have to do an analysis of what books of accounts are and that she would only have to determine if the defendant has company documents and whether this property should be turned over. The lawyer stated that alternatively, if the judge does not

allow the amendment, there would a need for more proceedings to determine what books of accounts are. She also pointed out that the application for the amendment was made on July 8 before the plaintiff had completed its evidence and before the defendant started giving his testimony on July 24. However, the defence lawyer objected to any changes being made as the originating summons was filed since December 2011 and had even given the section of the Ordinance under which they are seeking books of accounts. McKnight said they cannot wait 18 months after they have gotten into the trial and then put in all sorts of other documents that were not part of the originating summons, which was very specific. He argued that it is far too late in the day to change what they were asking for, adding that his client has already testified before the court that any documents he has in his possession are documents he was allowed to have. However, Judge Ramsay-Hale pointed out to the lawyer that it is not a matter of what his client has but if he has company documents, and he has stated that he does not. The judge is expected to rule sometime soon on the lawyers’ submissions; meanwhile closing arguments are expected to be made when the matter is called again at a date to be announced later. (DI)

10 NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Volunteers wanted for disaster programme OFFICIALS from the Department of Disaster Management and Emergency (DDME) were at Graceway IGA supermarket on Thursday (December 5) encouraging residents to sign up for their volunteer programme. The programme, named Communities United in Response to Emergencies (CURE), will enable the department to assist more people in the event of any disaster. According to the deputy director of DDME, Sophia Mitchell, December 5 is acknowledged as International Volunteer Day so it was a perfect time to launch the programme. She told the Weekly News that aside this day, the department is always looking for people to remain on file in case of catastrophic events. “Volunteerism is something that exists all year round, but CURE is the department’s initiative in an effort to see how best we can standardise and we can train disaster volunteers island-wide.” Mitchell said that people who live within communities are the first ones to respond to an emergency so therefore DDME has to encourage volunteerism. They have had volunteer courses over the years, she explained, but have never been standardised in their approach. According to the deputy director the department has about 50 volunteers on record and are expecting to target at least another

Premier Rufus Ewing

Premier defends his ministers’ overseas travel

Resident signs up to be a part of CURE programme

150 people. The volunteers will be offered some level of training such as shelter management, initial damage assessment, and search and rescue training. They will also be taught how to develop a plan for their community, they will develop life skills and even learn first aid and CPR along with other tips. Mitchell said: “During an emergency we need volunteers who can assist with evacuation planning because evacuation planning is important not just for hurricanes and floods, but also tsunamis where evacuations would have to be done in a very timely manner where volunteers are critical in this respect.”

Mitchell said that the department will continue to acknowledge International Volunteer Day going forward and as soon as the CURE programme becomes better established, there will be activities attributed to the day. The information filled out by volunteers on the application forms will be transferred to DDME’s database. Volunteers were given a complimentary t-shirt which represented their official registration. People interested in volunteering can visit DDME offices in Providenciales and Grand Turk or if on the family islands can visit the district commissioner’s offices or the senior administrator’s offices to sign up. (DH)

Foundation raises nearly $55,000 for Community College IN JUST over a month a foundation dedicated to raising cash for TCI Community College has gathered a massive $54,778. This November dedicated members have been on an intensive fundraising drive and the community has stepped up to support them – in a big way. Most of the money will be spent on scholarships to allow deserving young people to attend TCI’s only tertiary level education facility. While the remainder will be spent on new equipment for the departments most in need. Members of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College (TCICC) Foundation gathered at the Providenciales campus on Thursday (December 5) to impart the good news. Foundation treasurer Cecil Arnold explained that a lot of the cash raised came from an elegant dinner fundraiser held at the Regent Palms on November 8. Pledges made during the evening along with donations and tickets from the event and throughout the month amounted to $44,580.

Opposition Leader Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson

One anonymous donor also agreed to add an additional $20,000 if the foundation’s goal of raising $20,000 was surpassed. So the total raised was a huge $64,580 – or $54,778 after accounting for fundraising expenses. Chair Claudette Munroe-Clare thanked everyone that helped out in either contributing to the funds or assisting in fundraising. “We want the community to know that this fundraising initiative is ongoing,” she said. “We encourage others to come on board and join with us.” Munroe-Clare stressed that the provision of scholarships is the main focus of the fundraising drive. However some of the cash will pay for much needed new equipment at the college’s culinary school. And a small amount will fund communication technology to allow the Providenciales and Grand Turk campuses to swap information more easily. Foundation member and college vice president Samuel Forbes said: “The money that we have realised to date is going to a very worthy cause.

“It will take the young people off the streets and give them something meaningful to work towards.” TCICC is partly funded by government, but requires additional assistance to upgrade its facilities and provide scholarships to young people with limited funds. As a result the foundation is partnering with civic and business communities in a number of fundraising ventures. Contribution brochures have been distributed across the country, which allow individuals or companies to choose to contribute to any of four donor categories. Member Lillian Boyce said that raising funds for needy students continues to be a pleasure. “I am excited that we will continue to raise money and continue to educate our people.” A large scale fundraising event will be held next year as part of the college’s 20th anniversary celebrations. The foundation’s other members are college president Professor Lee Ingham, secretary Karen Whitt, John Smith and Deveraux Malcolm. (RB)

PREMIER Rufus Ewing has defended his and his ministers’ travels around the world over the past months in the face of the strong criticisms from the Opposition. At a press conference on November 18, Opposition Leader, Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson while grading the government’s performance during its first year in office, gave them a “spectacular performance in the area of travel, A++”. Speaking to the media on Wednesday (December 4) after having just returned from London along with the Governor and Deputy Premier, Ewing gave short shrift to the PDM leader’s pronouncements. “The thing about overseas travel is when you’re in the Opposition you can say anything because when you’re in this seat you will do the same thing. It is just chatter. “All I need to say is this is a global village, you just cannot sit at home and expect these things to happen.” He added that in order to attract investment into the country, travel is essential. “And so while I take on board

comments that people may have been making regard to travel, travel is necessary to conduct government business and it is the only you are going to get any place is if you go out and reach the rest of the world,” the Premier stated. Another area where the PNP Government came in for criticism from the Opposition was in its failure to convene a tourism and investment conference which it had promised within the first 90 days in office. Asked about this, Ewing reiterated that the conference was not budgeted for in the current budget. “We don’t have the finances to do it this year, so we will do it next year, because other things need to be put in place. “In the meantime we have been going out there and marketing TCI from an investment standpoint and a tourism standpoint and we will continue to do so.” Cartwright-Robinson had also slammed the Government for not having any current aggressive plans to market the country for tourism or investment. According to her, there are no immediate plans or projects to boost investment. (DI)

Passports to be printed in UK in nine months A HOT topic of discussion at the Joint Ministerial Council held from November 25 to 28 was the repatriation of the passports for British Overseas Territories Citizens (BOTC) for printing in the United Kingdom. Deputy Premier, Akierra Missick, who attended the UK event along with the Premier and Governor, reported to the media on December 4 that the process of digitising the application process came up for discussion at the one of the meetings she attended. “Some of our Caribbean members who have the funds available to them would prefer to introduce the system in place which would digitise the application programme and then have applications forwarded to the UK. “The rest of us, who are unable to afford that sort of investment, decided that the best option would be to have persons apply through our offices and we forward them on to

the UK.” She said this method will ensure that there is some scope for passports to be provided for genuine emergencies. She added that many of the OTs, particularly those in the Caribbean, raised the issues of length of time and the delays with Her Majesty’s Passport Office. “The basic discussion was that we would have our own scoping area within the HM Passport Office so there wouldn’t be any undue delay on it. But the repatriation of the BOTC passports will take place within the next nine months,” the Deputy Premier stated. In September this year, UK Home Affairs Minister Michael Fahy announced that UK will start printing BOTC passports from December 2014. A new UK passport design with improved security measures prompted Whitehall to centralise the printing of all UK passports. (DI)

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Director of Rotary Projects, Trevor Musgrove; president of Rotary Raymond Cushnie, president of South Caicos Hope Foundation, Alvin Parker, treasurer Garvin Thomas and assistant treasurer Kacey Lewis

South Caicos Hope Foundation receives cash donation A CHEQUE of $1,000 was donated to the South Caicos Hope Foundation by the Rotary Club in conjunction with T Holdings Limited on Thursday (December 5). According to the president of the South Caicos Hope Foundation, Alvin Parker, the funds will be used for two projects that they had in mind before the year ends. He said: “We will be assisting senior citizens in

South Caicos by ensuring that they have their senior citizens party that they haven’t had in about two years because of financial reasons.” The second initiative is to facilitate the Marjorie Basden High School with track and field equipment. Parker says that the funds will not be able to cover the full cost, but will give the foundation an opportunity to

help the senior citizens and the high school a little. He also said that they are very thankful for the donation and that they will make good use of the funds. “We will continue to work alongside the Rotary Club to bring their desired projects to life on the island of South Caicos.” Half of the money was from the Rotary Club and half from T Holdings Limited. (DH)

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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

Don’t ignore the guidelines Dear Editor, So here's the second half of my letter on captive dolphins. I must emphasise that these regulations and requirements are only those which have been gleaned from other jurisdictions - it’s a common way for a third jurisdiction to write law. In fact it’s a brilliant way because you get the best of everything. A) Dolphins in captivity are required to have a minimum surface area of water in the dolphin pond - a very large minimum surface area. B) Dolphins kept in captivity are susceptible to disease and infection on a far greater scale than those in the wild. A secure and entirely separate quarantine pond is a requirement, with its own flushing and circulating system completely remote from the main pond (to avoid spreading infection). C) Ponds containing captive wild dolphins are required to be at least 23 feet deep with completely smooth bottom and side surfaces. D) Ponds containing captive dolphins must have very, very serious flushing and aerating mechanisms. Dolphins do not live in sour oxygen deprived water. Like us they breathe air, but also like us, they require (and it is required that they have) an environment of water which is clean, constantly moving, and refreshed

several times a day. E) Ponds containing captive dolphins must be free from both actual pollution, and the threat of pollution. That includes oil, fuel, garbage, and the noise from high revving outboard engine motors. F) Ponds situated in areas subjected to storm surges - for example during Hurricane Ike absolutely must have upper level (read safe) alternative ponds which can hold the dolphins for the period of maximum danger. The dolphins must be moved in accordance with internationally accepted lifting and care regulations into these alternative ponds which themselves must be aerated, have refreshing pumps, and be a of a size that can properly accommodate stressed and frightened animals weighing around 350 lbs. (Please note that these creatures are anything up to nine feet long and do not usually take kindly to being man-handled). They may NOT be put into small tanks like the concrete irrigation tank as was suggested for Provo. Are those people nuts? G) Captive dolphins require a constant stream of fresh fish. It can be frozen, but it may not under any circumstances be rotten. It is mandatory to provide sanitary food storage and preparation facilities. H) No wild dolphin may be

introduced to captivity. All dolphin stock must have provenance and thus must show ancestry to existing captive dolphins. In other words, only dolphins born in captivity may be traded and transferred legally. I) It does not matter what the ‘show time’ schedule is, no captive dolphin may be coerced or bribed (with food) to ‘perform’. There are dozens of other requirements, none of which were properly addressed in the Provo proposal. What is a total slap in the face for our country from these strange and unpleasant dissemblers, is that none of them were addressed in the Grand Turk proposal either. What? You’re given guidelines in February in Providenciales and you ignore them six months later in Grand Turk? You think we don’t communicate with each other from island to island? You think the laws are different between Provo and Grand Turk? You think they can be flouted because they’re irrelevant? Because our opinions are irrelevant? Because you know better? At the very least they need a lesson in manners. Nicky Turner Kew Town, Providenciales

Acting Governor Anya Williams

Gov’t officials in Brussels for meeting of EU territories ACTING Governor Anya Williams and four senior members of Government flew to Brussels in Belgium this week to attend a meeting of European overseas territories. The Ministerial Conference of the Association of the Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTA) of the European Union (EU) began on Wednesday (December 4) and will continue until next Tuesday (December 10). Joining Williams are Minister of Finance Washington Misick, Permanent Secretary of Finance Athenee Harvey, along with senior and project economists Kathleen Forbes and Salace Richardson. Williams, who is also the EU territory authorising officer, spoke about the upcoming trip last Friday (November 29) in a press release from the Governor’s Office. She explained: “Developing strong international networks is vital to the future growth and prosperity of the Turks and Caicos Islands. “Our mission during the OCTA week of events is to establish stronger working relationships across the EU and to learn more about gaining access to and using the EDF 10 and 11 funds in ways that can benefit our people.” According to the release the

meeting is likely to be attended by the European Commissioner for Development, Andris Piebalgs, and the Overseas French Minister, Victorin Lurel. There will be high level representation from other EU member states at the events as well, it stated. During the week the TCI officials will take part in trilateral meetings on the 10th European Development Fund (EDF), attend the OCTA’s ministerial conference, participate in the EU-OCTs forum and take part in a training workshop on EDF 11. The TCI recently signed a three year agreement to receive $15m from EDF 10 which the Government will use to make sure that it works effectively with businesses to further boost the Islands’ economy The country has also received $6m from the EU to rebuild 124 hurricane damaged homes on the islands of Grand Turk, South Caicos and Salt Cay. And it has previously received support for a range of environmental projects, including grants awarded to the TCI National Trust. Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles was sworn in as Acting Governor until Peter Beckingham’s return to the country on Tuesday (December 3).

COMMENTARY

National birds & Thanksgiving In the USA the last Thursday of November is a national holiday called thanksgiving. It was founded to remember and celebrate a peaceful meal that the American pilgrims enjoyed in 1621 with the indigenous people, American Indians. There was roasted turkey and a new Indian treat... corn. Stan Freberg a comedian from the 50's and 60's claimed that the plan was to have roast eagle a large bird. According to Stan the person assigned to catch the eagle failed and he showed up with a turkey which Freberg claimed in those days was very thin. Therefore they stuffed it with

By David Tapfer bread before roasting the bird. The comedian also claimed the turkey was planned to be the American National Bird but since it got roasted that first thanksgiving the eagle was pronounced the

American National Bird. President Obama was just was on TV saving a pair of turkeys from roasting. They will now regenerate turkey children for the roasting pans of America. Now here in Middle Caicos we have a National Bird, the mosquito ! It was not planned for this honor either but has become our symbol because of the bugs success taking bites out of residents. Over the years Middle Caicos has been given numerous anti mosquito fogging devices and on occasion we have had some really good operators. However whoever is assigned the responsibility for keeping a supply of the fogging liquid always seems

to fail. Therefore we now collect the bugs and roast them ! This will not affect their status because they always recover. A few years ago we had a multitude of dragon fly’s who ate the mosquitoes by the thousands. The dragon fly was nominated for national bird but alas they flew away, to Brazil ! Perhaps the Brits will figure a way to get them back. The Middle Caicos mosquito is clever. When she sees you with your hands full she attacks. It is the female bug that bites. The males just hang out feeding on fermenting sapadillys. When the French tried to build

the Panama Canal they were chased back to France by our National Birds, the mosquitoes. The Americans took over the canal project and hired Bajans who are immune to the bugs. We have a certain Bajan in Provo but he needs to stay right there defending the government and not come to Middle Caicos to mess with our National Birds. The good news is the bugs go away during the tourist season when the weather is beautiful. From December through May. Middle Caicos “thanksgiving” is celebrated right after the first of the year when our national bird retires to regenerate.

16 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013

Sanfra Foster, country manager of RBC Turks and Caicos, talks about the project

Replica of old Turks and Caicos Islands thatched roof house

Bank supports water saving initiative

A PROJECT to encourage Turks and Caicos National Museum visitors to reduce their water consumption has been given a $55,000 from Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). The ‘Wise Water Use for Gardens Project’ is a joint venture with the TCI Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs and the UK Overseas Territories Conservation Forum - the only UK body devoted to addressing conservation across its territories. It aims to promote awareness of water-supply issues and watersaving measures at TCI’s museum in Grand Turk and the future museum site in Providenciales

Dr Mike Pienkowski, honorary executive director of the UK Overseas Territories Conservation Forum, explained: “Our goal is to decrease the dependence on citywater, produced by expensive and environmentally costly dieselpowered desalination and promote awareness of the environment.” On November 5 members of all three organisations gathered at the museum’s mock 1800s home, Caicos Heritage House, at the Village in Grace Bay, Providenciales, for the launch of the project. During the event Sanfra Foster, branch manager at RBC Turks and Caicos, made a $55,000 donation as

part of RBC foundation’s 10 year, $50 million Blue Water Project. She said: “We all have a stake in ensuring that we preserve and conserve fresh water and RBC is a partner in the conservation process, globally and locally.” The Turks and Caicos National Museum Foundation is a not-forprofit organisation that is run as an independent company with a board of trustees. Foundation director Patricia Saxton said: “The Turks and Caicos National Museum is focused on historical and environmental conservation. “In our Grand Turk branch, the

museum, botanical garden and science building rely only on rainwater harvesting and air conditioning run-off to power the operation.” The Museum in Grand Turk is housed in historic building Guinep House, and contains a shop and research facilities. The foundation has also secured land in the Village in Grace Bay, Providenciales, where a mock historical site has been constructed and a new museum is in the planning stages. Saxton explained that the grant will help the museum to demonstrate rainwater harvesting, garden irrigation and use of native planting.

TCIG’s Director of Culture David Bowen said: “The Wise Water Use for Gardens project supports our goal to ensure that TCI retains its pristine natural resources and we thank RBC for their financial support and all the partners who have made this initiative possible.” Also at the event were Ann Pienkowski, environmental education co-ordinator at the UK Overseas Territories Conservation Forum, and Bryan Naqqi Manco of the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs. The finished project will be showcased on RBC Blue Water Day in June 2014

Provo Children’s Home enjoys preChristmas party THE MID Life Crisis Motorcycle Club (MLCMC) organised a preChristmas party for the children from the Provo Children’s Home on Sunday (December 1). The initiative was a collaboration between the Beach House and the Motorcycle Club which happened at the restaurant’s venue in the Lower Bight where they provided the children with complimentary lunch. According to one of the members of the MLCMC, Trevor Sams, everyone who attended which included the families of all of the club members, had a great afternoon. He said that during events such as these, the club tries to get the children out of their regular home environment and out of their regular routine to indulge in fun activities

and even take the children for spins on the motorcycles. Sams said the committee tries to hold at least three or four parties a year and the club has always had the intention of giving back to the TCI community, so they decided to adopt the Provo’s Children’s Home. “When you are there and you see the children laughing and smiling and having a good time, how could you not get affected by this? “It puts a smile on your face and makes you think that maybe the club is worth doing and there is some sense of purpose behind it after all.” Sams thanked the Beach House management team for their support in this venture. The Mid Life Crisis Motorcycle Club started about two years ago

Children from Provo Children’s Home, Beach House staff and reps from Motorcycle club pose for a photo during lunch

when a few friends decided to team up and start a motorcycle club. Although specific plans are

not concrete as yet, the club will continue to look for innovative ways to raise funds for the children.

Aside from accumulating funds, the club with try their best to serve as mentors for the young ones. (DH)

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 17

Grace Bay retains title of World’s Best Beach

WITH five miles of soft white sand lapped by crystal clear turquoise water, it is no surprise that Grace Bay retained its title of World’s Best Beach at this year’s World Travel Awards. The stunning Providenciales beach was one of nine in the category at the grand final gala, held at the magnificent La Cigale Hotel in Doha Qatar. Other beaches that featured were the romantic shores of Cancun, Mexico, the deco allure of South Beach in Florida and the azure waters along the coastline of Zanzibar, Tanzania in East Africa. But it was the multi-awardwinning Grace Bay that proved to be the judges’ top pick. Meanwhile the Regent Palms Resort brought home the title of World’s Leading Hotel Spa 2013, and ended a three year-long record for Mardan Spa in Antalya, Turkey.

Beaches Resort and Spa also received World’s Leading All Inclusive Family Resort Brand, a title they have held for 14 years since 1998, with the exception of 2009 and 2010. Premier and Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage, Rufus Ewing, said he was proud of the country’s achievements. “We as a people and as a country have done a lot to promote the tourism product that we have to offer here in the Turks and Caicos Islands and it is fitting, and indeed rewarding, that the accolades received are from the very agencies that we are dependent upon to sell our destination to the world.” He added: “We are really excited about things to come and I must recognise and congratulate the Regent Palms, Beaches Resort and Spa, and all other nominees who were winners in the different categories throughout 2013, for

Middle aged man charged with burglary A MAN from Providenciales has been slapped with three charges of burglary, theft and handling stolen goods this week. McAllen Bright, 42, of Kew Town appeared before the Chief Magistrate Clifton Warner in the Providenciales Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday (December 3).

Grace Bay won big at this year’s World Travel Awards

their contribution in building and maintaining our hospitality sector and thus ensuring that Turks and Caicos is Beautiful by Nature, not just to us, but to the world.” The World Travel Awards, dubbed the ‘Oscars of the Travel Industry,’ recently held voting for nominees in the World’s Best categories for the top airlines, resorts, beaches and other sectors of the tourism industry.

The Turks and Caicos Islands took home the title in the WTA World’s Leading Beach category in 2012 and held its position this year, making it the seventh win in this category. The country also boasts five distinctions in the Caribbean’s Leading Beach category, the most recent being awarded at a gala event in September 2013 at Sandals Grande Resort and Spa in Antigua.

Recognition of the Turks and Caicos Islands as a world-class luxury tourism destination was also received, with some of our top Resort and Spa Brands being nominated in other major World Leading categories. The event on November 28 brought to an end the 2013 world tour in honour of the 20th anniversary of the awards.

He was accused of committing the offences at a home in Kew Town last Saturday (November 30). Bright pled not guilty to all charges and was released on $1,500 bail. He is due to reappear in court on March 20, 2014.

Model contest is a dollhouse CHILDREN as young as 10-years-old could hit the catwalk next year as part of the country’s biggest fashion show. Organisers of the 2014 TCI Top Model Contest and Fashion Extravaganza are on the hunt for beautiful young models to showcase some of TCI’s latest trends. The theme of the show is ‘The Dollhouse’ and will feature a junior section for boys and girls aged 10 to 15. Show director Courtney Robinson said: “Organisers of the TCI Top Model Contest strive each year to outdo itself with a great production for our audience and partners. “In so doing, we work tirelessly to provide those that are participating, whether contestants, models or designers, the necessary information, training, tools, grooming and guidance they’ll need in the business that is fashion. “It is with hope that they take on board all that is learned and make their Turks and Caicos fashion dreams a world realty.” The next TCI Top Model Contest and Fashion Extravaganza will take place on May 2, 2014, and is expected be more extravagant than before, with prizes, surprises and guest appearances. Meanwhile a contestant and model search will take place in Grand Turk and Providenciales on

Saturday, January 25, 2014. In Providenciales, residents are invited to come to the TCI Football Association National Academy on Venetian Road from 10am until 12pm. In Grand Turk, the search will be held at the Victoria Public Library on Front Street from 10am until 11am. Potential contestants must be aged 16 to 24 before May 1, 2014. All females must be 5ft 6ins or taller without heels, arrive in a tank top or t-shirt with fitted jeans or shorts, 4ins heels and with minimal or no make-up. Male models must be 17 or older at the date of the search, be 5ft 11ins to 6ft 2ins, waist 28ins to 34ins, and must wear fitted clothing. All are asked to arrive with photographs (need not be professional), identification (valid passport or driver’s licence) and a positive attitude. Juniors must be aged 10 to 15 and can be male or female. All juniors and persons under 18 must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. Since its inception in 2009, past winners and TCI Top Model alumni have rocked the runway around the world wearing clothes from top fashion designers. More information is available at 232-6796 or by email at tcitopmodelcontest@gmail.com.

School hands over $400 to TCI Filipino Community

School raises $400 for typhoon victims A TCI primary school raised $400 for the victims of devastating Philippine typhoon Haiyan recently. Teachers, pupils and parents of Mills Institute in Juba Sound, Providenciales, donated cash to help those in need. Principal Debby-Lee Mills said:

“When a disaster happens, it does not only affect those that are closest to it, it often has a global impact. “So, today we at Mills Institute sympathise with the plight of the Philippines and are happy that we are able to make this donation in an effort to alleviate some of the

hurts that they are experiencing during the aftermath of this disaster.” President of the TCI Filipino Community, Rizaldy Gregorio, received the cheque and expressed his gratitude for the efforts made by the school.

Airline launches web check in PASSENGERS travelling on American Airlines flights can check in at home before they fly thanks to a new web check in system. As long as they have access to the internet customers can check in, change seats and request upgrades through www.aa.com before travelling to the United States or back home. The service is available from two to 24 hours before the flight

and will help to reduce time spent waiting at the airport. Art Torno, American Airlines’ vice president of Mexico, Caribbean and Latin America, said: “We know that our customers value the convenience and flexibility of being able to check in for their flights from anywhere. “We are pleased to expand our web check in feature to our customers from Latin America and

the Caribbean and we know it will help make their travel experience with American even better and more convenient.” After checking in customers can print their boarding passes at home or via the self-service machines at the airport. Before the launch of this feature, customers travelling from non-visa-waiver countries were not eligible to use web check in.

Lifestyle... 18

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

GARDENING 

How does your garden grow

The parrot that was once in the Turks and Caicos Islands Beautiful, elegant, and intelligent, parrots have long been coveted and caged by humans. With over 340 species living in the Americas, Asia,

Africa, and Oceana tropic zones, our world should be brimming with parrots. But today, parrots are one of the most threatened families of birds.

Weekly Recipe

Jerk chicken with rice and peas SERVES: 4

INGREDIENTS • 2 tbsp sunflower oil • 1kg chicken thighs and drumsticks • 1 bottle jerk barbecue sauce • 1 bunch spring onions, sliced • 200g basmati rice • 2 x 410g cans kidney beans • 400g can coconut milk • 1 bunch spring onions, chopped • 1 thyme sprig • 1 garlic clove, chopped • 1 tsp allspice DIRECTIONS • Heat oven to 220C/200C fan/ gas 7. Heat the oil in a roasting tin then carefully add the chicken pieces. • Brown them lightly on all sides – it will take about six to eight minutes.

• Pour over the jerk sauce, scatter over the sliced spring onions, then toss to coat each piece of chicken. • Roast the chicken for 30 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure it gets nice and sticky. • While the chicken is cooking, make the rice and peas. Rinse the rice in a sieve until the water runs clear. • Bring a pan of water to the boil with the liquid only from the kidney beans, the coconut milk, spring onions, thyme, garlic, allspice and some salt, then simmer for 10 minutes. • Add the beans then simmer for five minutes more until the rice is tender. • Drain and serve straight away with the chicken.

The Weekly News is looking for a restaurant, café or personal chef to contribute weekly recipes to the newspaper. For more information call 946-4664 or email tcweeklynews.com.

Nearly a third of parrots worldwide are threatened a statistic three times greater than the threat to all bird species. Destruction of their natural habitats due to clearing of tropical rainforest and to agricultural development has also taken its toll. The Cuban Amazon parrot, also called Rose-throated Parrot lives presently into five subspecies including two on Cuba, two in the Cayman Islands and one in The Bahamas. It was once found throughout Cuba, but it is now mainly confined to the forested areas of the main island and Isla de la Juventud. There are about 10,000 individuals in Cuba including an estimated 1100 on Isla de la Juventud. On the Cayman Islands the parrot lives in dry forest and on agricultural land. The population living on Grand Cayman

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

numbers about 3,400 individuals, and the population on Cayman Brac consists of 400 to 500 individuals. The parrot population was estimated at 3,550 birds on Abaco and 6,353 birds on Inagua in 2006. The population of Cuban Amazon parrot that was once on the Grand Turk was extirpated in the 1940s, based on fossil remains and archeological findings. A pigeon–sized parrot (11"-13"), green overall, with chin, throat and lower part of the pale red face. White forehead and eyering, blue primaries. Coloration is variable between islands, especially on face, chin and throat; often appears black in flight. With a noisy voice, especially when perched in a flock. This parrot eats a variety of fruits and seeds: poisonwood berries, mahogany seeds, and fruits of many species of palms. This parrot mainly uses old woodpecker nest holes and dead palms that have lost their foliage. The Abaco Island population has the unique behavior of nesting in limestone crevices in the ground. Interesting Facts Christopher Columbus was so struck by the numbers of parrots when he made landfall in The Bahamas in 1492, that he wrote in his log: “flocks of parrots darken the sun.”

Bahama Parrot bones found on New Providence have been dated back to the Pleistocene Era, more than 50,000 years ago. Although it appears that numbers are increasing on Grand Cayman and in The Bahamas, overall, the species is affected by habitat destruction and degradation, hurricanes, and introduced predators among other threats. Due to ongoing habitat loss, occasional natural disasters and trapping for the wild parrot trade, the Cuban Amazon is evaluated as near threatened on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Maybe the Turks and Caicos Islands should think about reintroducing parrots on some of our Islands such as East Caicos. The Virgin Islands have successfully reintroduced three species of birds. The three species; the Flamingo, the Scarlet Ibis and the Roseate Spoonbill haven't been seen there for 100 to 150 years. Also, the Puerto Rican amazon parrot has diminished greatly in recent years. This species is presently part of a reintroduction program with the United States Fish and Wildlife. Although the reintroduction effort in Puerto Rico is not close to completion and recommendations have not been formally put together at this time.

December 7 - 13, 2013

Lifestyle... YOUR DIET

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

ASK TAMIKA

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

BY TAMIKA HANDFIELD

Tamika graduated from Florida International University with a Master's Degree in Dietetics and Nutrition. She is a registered dietitian with the American Dietetic Association (ADA) and licenced to practise medical nutrition therapy in the state of Florida. Email Tamika at tamikahandfield@ yahoo.com with your healthy eating questions.

By Dr Mark Osmond

Which Toothbrush? Whatever you are doing, having the ‘right tools for the job’ is always sensible and makes the work more effective and efficient. This is definitely true for brushing teeth and so following on from my last article which discussed mouthwash, I’m going to look at toothbrushes and floss.

Forget about the scale and aim for wellness in 2014 Some people spend so much time focusing on the number the scale displays but in reality that number is just that, a number on the scale. It doesn’t tell the whole story nor does it give the bigger picture. The bigger picture includes everything you have achieved or have gotten so much better at since starting your journey to wellness. It may include achievements such as, being able to run non-stop for three minutes instead of thirty seconds, eating breakfast every morning, drinking more water, being able to do more reps in the gym or making better food choices instead of only eating to please the palate. These achievements may seem insignificant to others but are very important to you. And, that’s the beauty of it; your journey to wellness will not look like anybody else’s. You do not have to compare yourself to anyone; the only comparison you are making is where you are now to where you were at the beginning of 2013. Achieving overall wellness is a journey, not a destination. Consider selecting a few of the wellness goals given below for your personal journey in 2014. 1. A food wellness goal: Cutting back on sweets. This is a common one but also a ‘not so easy’ one because you may not know where to start. Try reducing the amount of sweets you eat by half each time. For example, instead of two teaspoons of sugar in your tea, use one or instead of a regular size Snickers bar, eat a mini. You will be getting much less calories and saturated fat but still satisfying your sweet tooth. Eventually you may be able to skip the candy bar altogether. 2. A physical activity wellness goal: Incorporate strength training into your workout routine at least two times per week. During the year, you may have lost weight so your goal has changed from weight loss but you now need to tone up and build muscle. Strength training will help with this. 3. A behavioral wellness goal: Reducing screen time, especially during meal times. Watching television, playing a video game or replying to emails help to distract you from the real task at hand… eating. A distracted eater tends to eat more because you are not paying attention to cues of fullness and satisfaction. None of the above goals have weight loss as the ultimate objective; however, weight loss may be an added benefit on your way to achieving overall wellness. While the scale is very important in helping you to keep track of where you are and to ensure you are not gaining, it does not recognize all of the non scale achievements you are making to become a better you. So, forget about the number on the scale and aim for overall wellness in 2014!

Nutrition in Demand. A non-profit organisation helping you to 'Eat healthy today...live longer, better tomorrow'. Call 242-3978 or 442-3978.

Toothbrushes When I look at the selection on sale in most stores I find a large number of the toothbrushes have a considerably larger head size than I would recommend. The most effective brushes have a head of approximately 2 cm x 0.75 cm, a slim neck with medium texture bristles and rounded on the tip so they are not ‘scratchy’; the smaller size facilities getting to the back molars much more effectively and for just generally moving the brush around the mouth. Don’t be fooled into thinking the flashiest or fanciest is necessarily the best! I am often asked whether electric toothbrushes are better or if they are suitable for children. Firstly I would say there is absolutely no reason why you cannot clean your teeth perfectly well with a manual brush. However, electric toothbrushes are very effective in aiding thorough cleaning and I think for some people encourage cleaning for longer. This is due to the timer function which many models have and which sets a time of 2 minutes

for the brushing cycle. An electric brush can also be helpful for patients who have any physical difficulty in handling a manual toothbrush and cleaning effectively. Older patients, particularly those with any arthritis of the hands, will find an electric brush with a fatter handle easier to manage. My personal favourite (and the one I use myself) is a sonic-style electric brush. With this type, the brush buzzes and vibrates to create an effective cleaning action. Electric toothbrushes are fine for children too and can sometimes help with motivating them to brush their teeth. For children I recommend a simple battery powered brush as these are considerably less expensive than more sophisticated models and easy to replace if

dropped or broken. Whether you are using a manual or an electric toothbrush, the brush or head should be changed every 3 months from a hygiene perspective. If you see splayed bristles it should be changed sooner to prevent trauma to gums and aid effective cleaning. Floss Yes, you should floss! I think the most common thing people say to me about flossing is that they know they should do it more often! From a product choice perspective, I like a wide tape (rather than a ‘string’) that is made from PTFE (this is highlighted on the pack) as it glides much more easily and is gentler on the gums. Talk to your dentist if you need further information or advice.

POLICE SAFETY TIPS

Stricter bedtimes are essential TOO many children are awake too late at nights, especially on school nights watching TV or using a computer. I personally have spoken to thousands of children within the Turks and Caicos Islands and I felt compelled to ask these students at what time do they normally go to bed. From the primary level to high school, the answers were all pretty much the same - which was beyond 9pm. The times range from 10pm to 2am and there were also a number of students who said that they go to bed sometimes as late as 5am. Based on my many surveys with I can state as a fact that too many children are spending too much time in front of a TV or computer screen. What makes this situation worse

By Audley Astwood

Police Public Relations Officer

is the fact that too many kids have a TV or computer in their bedroom. This constant lack of sleep takes its toll on adults, so imagine our young minds who are obviously sleep deprived. What is keeping our children up so late? The answer being told to me is always the TV or the computer. Having your children left unsupervised on the internet is not wise whether it is day or night. Not to be a pessimist but, the internet is not the only place where kids can be

exposed to inappropriate content. There are many cartoons today that are not suitable for children and they should not be watching. It is time to evaluate whether or not your child should be watching TV and if so, how often and choice of what your child is allowed to watch. Too many children are going to school daily feeling sleepy and tired. Your child needs adequate sleep and if he or she is not getting it then your child will be like an empty shell in that classroom. While the teacher is teaching, all your child wants to do is sleep. Ask yourself... do you know for sure what time your child is going to sleep every night? Please note that going to bed is different from going to sleep.

Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013

Beyonce and Jay Z drop the meat THE meat of American royalty, Beyonce and Jay Z, have decided to go vegan. “On December 3rd, one day before my 44th birthday I will embark on a 22 Days challenge to go completely vegan, or as I prefer to call it, plantbased!!” the rapper wrote in a blog post on his Life + Times website. “Psychologists have said it takes 21 days to make or break a habit,” he wrote. “On the 22nd day, you’ve found the way.” Queen Bey will also be joining her husband on the journey as they find their way. “This all began a few months back when a good friend and vegan challenged me to embrace a ‘plantbased breakfast’ every day,” HOV added. “It was surprisingly easier on me than I thought.” The couple embarked on abstaining from any animal or dairy products, including the exclusion of meat, fish or really anything that comes from an animal, on Tuesday. They intend to continue this dietary commitment straight through to the Nativity. “Why now?” he wrote. “There’s something spiritual to me about it being my 44th birthday and the serendipity behind the number of

One Direction are the only group to have their first three albums top the chart in their opening week.

Jay Z and wife Beyonce are looking seriously at their eating habits.

days in this challenge; 22 (2+2=4) coupled with the fact that the challenge ends on Christmas day … It just feels right!” He refers to a friend named Marco, who may be behind the inspiration of the diet that toggles between a “spiritual and physical cleanse.” And the music mogul seems firm in his stance of seeing it through with his wife by his side. “I will post my progress,” he assured before bidding the assistance

of his plant-based foodie devotees. “Any professional vegans out there that have any great food spots please help out! Please ha.” Jay also professed that his dietary shift is only momentary, as the final outcome is still unclear. “I don’t know what happens after Christmas,” he confessed. “A semi-vegan, a full plantbased diet? Or just a spiritual and physical challenge? We’ll see.” (NYDailynews.com)

Lawson admits to using cocaine, marijuana CELEBRITY chef Nigella Lawson admits her recipe for escapism once included cocaine and pot — but claims her “brutal” ex-husband was more destructive than any drug. The TV domestic darling, testifying Wednesday in London, denied she’s a drug addict and insisted her last line of coke came three years ago after an ugly runin with vindictive spouse Charles Saatchi. “I felt subjected to acts of intimate terrorism,” said the 53-year-old Lawson about her July 2010 farewell snort. “A friend of mine offered me some cocaine and I took it. “It completely spooked me.” The kitchen cutie blamed millionaire art dealer Saatchi for spreading lies about her allegedly rampant drug use in a vicious campaign to destroy her career — even referring to her as “Highgella.” Saatchi, who split with his spouse after photographers snapped him apparently choking Lawson, then started a “bullying and abuse” campaign fraught with “false allegations” about drug use, she testified. He tried to spin his angry attack at a London restaurant to label his wife a “habitual user” as the frightening

One Direction make chart history with third album ONE Direction have made chart history in America. Their third album, Midnight Memories, entered the US Billboard 200 at number one making them the only group to have their first three albums top the chart in their opening week. According to Nielsen SoundScan the record has sold 546,000 copies since being released. Midnight Memories also went straight to number one in the UK and is the fastest-selling album for two years. The release sold 237,000 copies in its first week to get to the top of the Official Album Chart on 1 December. The former X Factor group’s third record sold 145,000 copies in three

days, according to the Official Charts Company. Their sales figures in the US mean One Direction are only the third pop group to sell more than 500,000 copies in a week in the Nielsen SoundScan era. Only ‘N Sync and Backstreet Boys have achieved the milestone since the company began tracking sales in 1991. Midnight Memories is the followup to last year’s Take Me Home, which also went to number one. Their debut album, Up All Night, went to number two in the UK when it was released in 2011. The group’s latest track, Story Of My Life, is at number two in the Official Singles Chart. (Newsbeat)

Junior Murvin was famed for his distinctive falsetto voice. Nigella Lawson walked into court with her head held high, amidst accusations of drug abuse from her two former assistants.

photograph appeared around the world, she said. Saatchi “told everyone that he was taking cocaine out of my nose at Scott’s (restaurant) when he knows that is a lie,” Lawson testified during a disturbing day on the witness stand. “People who do that are a lot thinner than I am,” she sniffed about cocaine users. “I have never been a drug addict.” Lawson, wearing high-heeled black boots and a conservative black outfit with a white collar, exposed her 10-

year marriage to Saatchi as glitzy on its surface but rotten at its core. Speaking for the first time about the infamous June 9 throat-grab, Lawson said the mercurial Saatchi exploded after she mused about the joys of becoming a grandmother. “I said I am so looking forward to having grandchildren and he grabbed me by the throat and said, ‘I am the only person you should be concerned with. I am the only person who should be giving you pleasure,’ ”she testified.

Jamaican reggae singer Junior Murvin dies, aged 67 REGGAE singer Junior Murvin, best known for the 1976 hit song Police and Thieves, has died in Jamaica aged 67. His son, Keith Smith, said Murvin died in hospital in Port Antonio on Monday. The cause of his death has not been established although the singer was being treated for diabetes and high blood pressure. Police and Thieves, produced by the celebrated Lee “Scratch” Perry,

became a 1970s anthem and was later covered by The Clash. Junior Murvin - born Murvin Junior Smith - began his career as a hotel entertainer in Jamaica, eventually becoming a recording artist in the capital, Kingston, the Jamaica Observer reported. Police and Thieves was a hit in Jamaica and also took off in the UK where it found an audience with punk rock aficionados.

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 21

Aids foundation raises funds for youth centre THE TURKS and Caicos Aids Awareness Foundation (TCAAF) hosted its annual World Aids Day Cocktail Party on Sunday (December 1) generously raising funds for programmes at the Edward Gartland Youth Centre. Held at the Grace Bay Club under the patronage of the Premier, the third annual event once again featured a fashion show by local designer Kazz Forbes of Saint George Fashion House. Patrons also delighted in a silent auction, bidding on 20 trendy gift items donated by Ajay Tolani of Goldsmith to raise funds for the centre. TCAAF president Dawn O’Sullivan said that the directors were very excited about the turnout and amount of support shown by the community.

Other than the charitable aspect of the event, she said the foundation uses the evening to “remember loved ones who have died from the disease”. “We want to create awareness because the biggest barrier still for people accessing treatment is stigma and discrimination.” She also stressed the importance of prevention and said: “For every person that contracts the disease it’s still a tragedy because it’s a preventable disease and it’s doubly important for us to renew our efforts to increase awareness.” During the event speeches were shared by the Minister of Health, the Premier and several founders and directors of the TCAAF and the Providenciales-based youth centre. The TCAAF, founded in 2003 by a group who lost friends or

Local fashion designer talks about show prep NORTH Caicos-born fashion designer Jermell Williams is hard at working preparing what he calls his biggest project thus far, Azul Lux, a night of fashion on Saturday (December 7) at Club Pillows. The young designer told the Weekly News on Wednesday (December 4) that he was initially inspired by the beautiful blue waters of the Turks and Caicos and by the stylish and glamorous lifestyles of Hollywood. He said: “It’s a red carpet event, all black and I was inspired by the waters because anytime I get in the mood of designing I go back home to North Caicos. “When I want to be inspired I would just go next to the water and get inspired and the lux came from the way I envisioned myself being in a few years, being luxurious and living the good life.” Williams admitted that preparation could be a little bit tough at times, but overall everything was going great. “It’s going good and the collection is completely done now. “I’m ready and excited because my guest model is arriving tomorrow night [Thursday] and he is excited because this is his first time coming to the Turks and Caicos.” He also admitted that this was the first time he had put his ‘all’

into any of his projects. “This is the first time I have done anything like this, this is like really major and I’m stepping out of the box with this one.” Since the designer’s last fashion show at the Windsong resort in 2011 he has maintained a low profile on the fashion scene. He said that he has been taking a break to come back with something new and prepare himself mentally and physically for the new start. He expects this show to be even better than his previous show and in five years he sees himself doing greater things, including having his designs more established. He said: “I’m expecting to come back out hard, get my clothes in stores, get a lot of orders and get my face out there.” Azul Lux will feature a number of local performances and one of the highlights and a few surprises The event begins at 6pm with a cocktail hour and red carpet moment. Minister of Education, Akierra Missick will be wearing one of the designer’s pieces on the redcarpet. Then the main event begins at 8pm with an after party at 10.30pm. Tickets are $40 general admission and $70 for VIP seating. Sky box tickets are $100. (DH)

Attendees enjoy a fashion show by local designer Kazz Forbe

family members to Aids, made it their mission to raise awareness and eliminate the stigma and discrimination associated with HIV and Aids through education and community participation. Six years ago the TCAAF began building the centre which recently celebrated its fifth anniversary and currently has more than 1,000 members and sees more than 50 young people each day. “The foundation built the centre as a way to keep kids safe and to engage them in positive activities in a safe environment,” said director of the centre Roxanne Wake-Forbes, who sees its benefits daily. She pointed out that young people remain the highest demographic of individuals who are diagnosed with

The trendy silent auction items donated by Goldsmith draws a crowd

the disease. “If we are able to educate our young people, keep them engaged in positive activities and off the streets then we will make a difference and reduce the numbers and be in the

fight for bringing it down to zero,” she said. The centre offers a number of entertaining and productive activities catering for 12 to 17-year-olds, free of charge to all its members. (KH)

Wrightfully Fit charity fundraiser a success BY DAISY HANDFIELD A LOCAL gym was successful in raising more than $6,000 for Provo Children’s Home during their fifth annual charity walk and run event on Sunday (December 1). The final figure raised is still being tallied, but managing director of the Wrightfully Fit Gym, John Wright confirmed that thousands were raised. The walk and run were 5km and 10km long and began and ended at the gym’s main branch in Turtle Cove, Providenciales. With the 5km race participants went around Coral Gardens and back to the gym while for the 10km they went as far as the roundabout near Somerset resort and back. Wright said that the Provo Roadrunners played a big role in the event, bringing in at least 30 of the participants. He also said that all participants were given medals and there was also a corporate trophy for businesses that participate. “It gets corporations involved and even gives them their bragging rights, but most importantly gets people out there and exercising.” Wright said that there were even people who came out to the event

A group from Provo Roadrunners pose after the run

with their babies in strollers. “We also have a prize for pets it really has turned into a family event.” A pool party was held after the event, where complimentary breakfast was served by the poolside where presentations were made and trophies were given out. All of the proceeds from the event have been directed to the Provo Children’s Home since its inception five years ago. Wright said that he felt more than

great being able to give back to the children. “This is something I am really proud of, being able to give back and help some kids a lot less fortunate than myself. “Especially around this Christmas time those children can use the money for something, it’s just a way for me to give back and promote health and fitness at the same time.” The managing director said that he will be looking for new and innovative ways to raise funds.

22 NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Leeward’s new resort will open its doors to residents and visitors this weekend

Preparing for the TCI Corporate Budweiser Beach Volleyball Tournament

Blue Haven hosts grand opening weekend TCI’s newest resort Blue Haven is hosting a free community festival this weekend to celebrate its grand opening. The pastel-coloured Leeward resort, formerly a Nikki Beach enterprise, will open its doors to residents and visitors from Friday (December 6) to Sunday (December 8). Guests can enjoy live music, DJs and dancing, pig roasts, barbeques and clam-bakes, arts and crafts, beach volleyball and soccer tournaments, and a bonfire with fire displays. On Tuesday (December 3) corporate general manager Roland Rutjens said he was extremely excited about the grand opening activities.

“The grand opening of Blue Haven is a first step in reviving the Leeward area of Providenciales and we would like to thank the Leeward community and Turks and Caicos Islands Government for all their support.” Activities start on Friday evening at 5.30pm with live music and a succulent Bacardi pig roast at Salt Bar and Grill. Then a ‘Blue Your Mind’ party starting at 9pm will feature DJ Viper with guests encouraged to wear blue clothing. On Saturday and Sunday (December 7 and 8) from 11am until 4pm the resort will host the fourth annual Turks and Caicos Friends of

the Arts Foundation (TCFAF) Art and Craft Expo. All sorts of local creations will be on offer – making it the ideal spot to shop for Christmas presents and stocking stuffers. The first annual TCI Corporate Budweiser Beach Volleyball Tournament will also take place on Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 4pm. First prize is a $500 donation to a charity of the winner’s choice. Meanwhile a beach barbecue will offer lots of savoury treats. The official opening of the Fire and Ice restaurant, bar and lounge will take place on Saturday evening from 5pm.

Champagne, cocktails, canapés and live music will be available until 7pm in the new Fire Lounge. Then the restaurant will officially open for dinner with a special clambake (reservations recommended). After 9pm, the beach party will begin with a bonfire and a fire dancing show, followed by DJ Dayoh and dancing on the beach. On Sunday from 11am until 4pm the Turks and Caicos islands Football Association (TCIFA) are holding a youth beach soccer tournament. Spectators are welcome to come out and cheer on the matches and enjoy food from Fire and Ice where the local catch will be featured in a fish fry themed menu.

Throughout the weekend, beach games and watersports activities, as well as exhibitors and stalls will complete the family fun for the whole community. As part of the festivities, the resort will celebrate the first ever transAtlantic crossing by kiteboard by the Enable Passion team in anticipation of their arrival in the coming weeks. The team, which departed from the Canary Islands November 20, is expected to land at Blue Haven on December 15. A group of local kite boarders are also planning a special welcome by riding the last stretch with the Enable Passion team before they arrive at Blue Haven Resort beach.

Santa switches on Christmas lights CHILDREN swarmed around a large bearded man dressed all in red as he handed out sweet sugar canes from his sack of goodies on Friday (November 29). Of course it was Santa Claus who was the guest of honour during the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Seven Stars resort on Grace Bay, Providenciales. With a “Ho ho ho!” he delighted more than 100 attendees by switching on colourful festive lights which decorate the country’s largest tree. And then he spent time chatting to youngsters, handing out sweets and posing for photographs by the display at the roundabout outside the resort. As well as getting to meet Father Christmas himself, guests also enjoyed carols sung by children from Bric’s Academy private primary school, along with complimentary fruit punch, mulled wine and cookies. Resort events manager Niki Flowers said it was great to see such a good turn-out.

“Our guests enjoyed meeting Santa and listening to Bric’s Academy who did a wonderful job with the carols.” She explained that it is the third year that the public was invited to witness the festive spectacular. “Back in 2011 we were discussing the fact that we thought Seven Stars’ Christmas tree was one of the largest on Provo,” she said, “we noted that it was a shame to quietly light the tree without any kind of fanfare and

holiday cheer. “We decided to contact Santa to see if he had time to spare out of his busy schedule. “Santa said he always enjoys a good carol service and chance to meet the kids before Christmas Eve, and has been visiting us ever since – I think he likes our mulled wine!” The Christmas tree lights go on every evening after sunset and compliment other displays that light up the Grace Bay stretch. (RB)

Children from Bric’s Academy primary school sing Christmas carols

Colourful festive lights decorate the country’s largest Christmas tree

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

24 NEWS

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013

Ladies pose for a photo during the event on Grace Bay

Ladies enjoy kiteboarding fun day LADIES from across Providenciales gathered on Grace Bay beach on Sunday (December 1) to celebrate Global Female Kite Day. The afternoon event was scheduled to take place on the shallow waters of Long Bay on the south shore but a notable lack of wind saw a switch to the more exposed northern beach. Kiteboarding was out of the question but attendees enjoyed practising on a small trainer kite and learnt more about the exhilarating sport from experienced kiteboarder and event organiser Hope LeVin. As well as being a team rider for Big Blue Unlimited and Naish Kiteboarding, LeVin is the founder

of Windvibes – the country’s only annual kiteboarding event. She said: “We had challenging conditions because there wasn’t much wind, and unfortunately that seemed to be a global issue with several other events around the world not having any wind either. “But there was just enough to fly small Naish trainer kites and some ladies new to kiteboarding had fun flying these around. “I’m happy that they got to try this amazing sport and I’m hoping they will pursue it by taking lessons with Big Blue. “The conditions here in the TCI really are unbeatable for

kiteboarding, and I encourage everyone on the island to try the sport while they have the opportunity to learn in in such easy place.” LeVin hopes that next year’s event will attract even more women and girls who want to become involved in the sport. Global Female Kite Day is an international event organised by USbased non-profit group KB4Girls. KB4Girls is a worldwide network of female kiteboarders offering free clinics and social events and raising funds for local charities. Its mission is to empower girls and women through the sport of kiteboarding. (RB)

Attendees enjoy practising their skills on a small trainer kite

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

NEWS 25

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013

NEWS 27

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

A crowd gathers to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Junkanoo band

Henry the Conch visits the Conch Festiva

Hundreds attend Conch Festival AN EXCITING afternoon of delicious conch dishes, conch contests, games and a celebration of TCI culture once again marked this year’s Conch Festival held last Saturday (November 30) in front of the Three Queen’s Bar in Blue Hills. The 10th annual beachfront festival saw a massive turnout of residents and tourists, all enjoying the island’s most symbolic shellfish dishes, family friendly island vibes, splashes of local cultural and competitions to win cash prizes. In its trademark ‘conch-etitons’ event, chefs from many local restaurants competed for cash and bragging rights in various categories including best conch chowder, best conch salad and best specialty conch. This year, newcomer to the culinary industry Mr Grouper snagged first place for his delectable conch chowder while Hemingway’s came a close second and Danny Buoys third. On sale throughout the day was a variety of local food as well as arts

and crafts. Other exciting conch competitions included conch blowing and conch knocking contests, which gave members of the crowd a chance to test their talent and get involved in the fun. Director of Culture David Bowen who hosted the day’s activities kept the fun going with entertaining cultural quizzes and bits of cultural information. The famed Junkanoo band stirred up more excitement in their colourful costumes while Santa Claus stopped by with candies and took photos with excited kids and even some adults. Environmentally friendly Henry the Conch also joined in the fun and added to the children’s excitement. The biggest prize of all for this year’s festival was the Rotary Club of Providenciales’ Annual Pot-of Gold Raffle cash prize of $10,000, which was won by one lucky raffle ticket holder. Other activates surrounding the

Conch dishes prepared by a range of local restaurants are one of the main highlights of the day

main event on Saturday included the addition of the National Domino Tournament sponsored by Islandcom Wireless. Also introduced in this year’s festival was a Christmas Card

Competition, which engaged children aged six to nine in designing a holiday card with the queen conch as a major character. Apart from providing a fun filled festival of activities, funds from the

events are donated to different areas of need in the community. This year, organisers said a clean drinking water system will be donated to Oseta Jolly Primary. (KH)

Group works to rid TCI of single use plastic bags A TEAM of eco-activists held a meeting recently to discuss how to free the country of environmentally-damaging single use plastic bags. Turks and Caicos Environmental Club (TCEC) got together at the Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs in the Bight, Providenciales, to talk about the way forward. Discussions during the meeting on Wednesday, November 27, centred around creating awareness of the dangers created by the carriers. Members discussed getting local and regional radio stations to support the campaign, as well as the creation of fridge magnets and bumper stickers. They also talked about holding a competition among stores and schools to design the best bag.

Other ideas included approaching local companies to assist in purchasing reusable bags and educating children on the problems caused by single use bags. Club member David Stone said: “While we all were hoping for a much larger audience, we were encouraged by the enthusiasm and commitment of those who did attend. “It is now up to each of us - Belongers, expats, locals and tourists alike - to unite and find an environmentally friendly alternate solution to replace single use plastic. “Much of it ends up in our beautiful clean waters and detracts from our Beautiful by Nature image. “We encourage retail businesses and hotels to join us in this effort.” During the meeting TCI Government’s Director of Culture David Bowen explained that the annual Maskanoo event on December

26 is a green festival. He said that all the costumes are made with recycled goods such as plastic bottles, bags, and clothing and encouraged the group to exhibit there. Stone went on to speak about the results of research he has conducted over the past year. He revealed that the School for Field Studies in South Caicos had conducted a small study on use of the bags. They showed that residents there would be willing to use reusable bags if they were provided for free or for less than a dollar. However there are sadly heavy duties and fees associated with the import of these bags, he said. Ramez Hakoura of TCI Waste discussed some of the issues surrounding the recycling of materials and plastic bags in the TCI. He said the company is currently able to

recycle only some plastics, aluminium cans and cardboard while glass is crushed and stays on island to be used in pavements and concrete. Balers to strap plastic bags are expensive, he said, and the ones at IGA are not capable of strapping bags. Another factor preventing the export of bags is the high cost of shipping mostly empty containers off island. Hakoura explained that he is currently working on a Carribbean-wide arrangement to dramatically increase the type of recyclables he is able to ship off Providenciales. These will include the plastics used in single use bags and may lead to lower shipping costs, he said. The group agreed on a number of action items to allow the campaign to progress forward before the next meeting early next year. (RB)

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013

Regional News

DR President signs decree Barbados least corrupt on new Citizenship Policy Caribbean country, DOMINICAN Republic President Danilo Medina signed a decree Friday establishing the terms and conditions for what he called the “regularisation of foreigners in an irregular situation” in the country. The government said the decree of the “National Plan for Regularisation” fulfilled the mandate of the country’s General Migration Law and the provisions of Constitutional Court Judgment TC/0168/13. The latter was the controversial case which stripped citizenship for hundreds of thousands of Dominicans of Haitian descent. That ruling applied to those born in the Dominican Republic to parents who were considered ” in transit” in the country — the vast majority of whom were Haitian. The decree said that there would be a special process “for the naturalisation of children of foreign mothers that were not resident in the country.” It did not just apply to those impacted by the constitutional ruling, however — it was part of a wider effort to attempt to regularise the many foreign workers, almost entirely Haitian, living in the country. The decree gives those affected

Haiti most corrupt

Expulsions and voluntary departures from the DR to Haiti will be the reality for many.

18 months to make an application for regularisation. Those impacted will need to meet a series of criteria, including “a link with Dominican society,” children born in the country, having studied in the country, knowledge of how to speak and read Spanish, residence at a fixed address, living with a Dominican and not having a criminal record. The government said the decree was of “fundamental importance,” as it established the criteria used to establish the “time of filing,

attachment to society and labour and socioeconomic conditions of foreigners in the Dominican Republic.” The decree also applied to “foreign labour,” which the government said would have to show “socioeconomic links” to the country. Those include owning real or personal property, having satisfied an educational degree, having bank accounts or trade references and having a regular job during the time of their stay.

Jamaican drug lord “Dudus” Coke had assets worth JA$300 million CHRISTOPHER “Dudus” Coke, the Jamaican drug lord, who is serving 23 years in a federal prison in the United States, had massed assets worth J$300 million (One Jamaica dollar=US$0.01 cents), Police Commissioner Owen Ellington has said. Coke was extradited to the United States on June 24, 2010 after a bloody standoff between his supporters and police that lasted nearly a month. Several people lost their lives as a result and the government set up a Commission of Inquiry to probe the circumstances surrounding the extradition after it had become public that the then ruling that the then ruling Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) government had sought to prevent the extradition. The US court also ordered Coke to pay US$1.5 million in forfeiture Speaking at the Jamaica Observer Monday Exchange programme, Commissioner Ellington said Coke had been careful in masking his ownership of several properties, cash and other physical assets. “We have made moves to take some of that wealth from him, but one thing that must be said about

Christopher “Dudas” Coke is currently serving 23 years in US federal prison.

people like Coke, they skillfully conceal their wealth,” Ellington told the senior journalists of the newspaper. He said Coke listed ownership of some of his lavish assets in the names of relatives and associates. “We found houses, expensive motor vehicles in the names of persons who were not able to work and appeared to be unconnected to the day-to-day activities of the

criminal enterprise. But they were holders of substantial assets. “But it is not unique to Coke. We will find many of the significant crime actors using this method of concealing their ill-gotten gains,” the top cop said. The police said they are working with the Financial Investigation Division of the Ministry of Finance and recently seized millions in cash and assets.

BARBADOS is among the least corrupt countries in the world according to the latest figures released by the German-based Transparency International (TI) on Tuesday. According to TI, Barbados heads the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries on the Corruption Perception Index that ranks countries based on how corrupt their public sector is perceived to be. Transparency International has ranked Barbados 15th out of 173 countries with a score of 75, down one place from the 2012 figure of 76. The Bahamas and St. Lucia are ranked 22nd, the second best for regional countries with a score of 71, the same as in 2012. While Transparency International did not provide figures for St. Kitts-Nevis, Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda and Belize, it said that St. Vincent and the Grenadines had a score of 62, the same as in 2012 with a ranking of 33. Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago both had a ranking of 38, but while Kingstown score remained at 38 as it had been in 2012, Port of Spain slipped one point down. Dominica placed 41st on the

rankings with a score of 58, the same as in 2012, followed by Suriname (94) with a score of 36, one less than the previous year, , Guyana (136) with a drop of one from the 2012 figure of 28, while Haiti rounded up the CARICOM countries with the same score of 2012 to place 163rd. Transparency International said that a country’s score indicates the perceived level of public sector corruption on a scale of 0 - 100, where 0 means that a country is perceived as highly corrupt and 100 means it is perceived as very clean. A country’s rank indicates its position relative to the other countries and territories included in the index. This year’s index includes 177 countries and territories. Denmark, as it did last year, topped the ranking with a score of 91, up from the score of 90, while North Korea, Somalia and Afghanistan were in the cellar position with a score of eight, the same as they had in 2012. Transparency said that the world urgently needs a renewed effort to crack down on money laundering, clean up political finance, pursue the return of stolen assets and build more transparent public institutions. (CMC)

LIAT aims for hassle free Caribbean travel during the Christmas season

THE regional airline, LIAT, which came under heavy public criticism over its summer schedule, Monday sought to reassure the travelling public that it would do everything possible to ensure that their journeys are not interrupted during the busy Christmas Season. The financially strapped airline had blamed the re-fleeting exercise for the August fiasco and that the fleet modernisation efforts were continuing with five new ATR aircraft being added so far and two more due to arrive in January 2014. “Even as we continue the transition from the Dash 8 to the ATR aircraft we are now in a better position to stabilise the schedule during the Christmas peak, traditionally one of the busiest periods for us,” said Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mrs. Julie Reifer-Jones. “We are determined to get all of our passengers to their destinations as quickly as possible over the holiday

season,” she said, adding that the Antigua-based airline which flies to 21 destinations daily, was also working with external agencies “as it endeavors to improve the level of customer service offered by its employees”. She said with the Christmas holidays approaching, LIAT is placing an embargo on excess baggage from December 3, 2013 to January 14, 2014 indicating that high passenger loads during the Christmas season as well as the space and weight limitations of both Dash 8 and ATR aircraft were the key reasons for a return to the seasonal policy. She said that in order to make flying as easy as possible, passengers should adhere to LIAT’s baggage limits. “The free baggage allowance for all LIAT services is one piece at a maximum of 50 lbs or 23 kgs. In addition, passengers are allowed one piece of cabin baggage at a maximum weight of 15 lbs,” Mrs. Reifer-Jones said. (CMC)

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Regional News 31 Haitian migrants detained on Long Island AUTHORITIES, assisted by residents, yesterday detained 31 Haitian migrants who made their way onto Long Island. According to police, a Haitian sloop landed at Long Island with a large number of Haitians who had escaped onto land at the Turn Bull settlement around 2pm. Shortly after, police and Long Islanders captured 28 men and three women. A major search for the

remaining Haitians who had landed at Turn Bull later took place. Immigration officials were said to have flown to the island to lead the search efforts. All of the Haitians were detained and taken to the Long Island Airport from where they were flown to New Providence. They are to be sent back to Haiti in the coming weeks. (Tribune242.com)

Jamaica, Trinidad ink agreement on immigration, trade issues JAMAICA and Trinidad and Tobago have signed an agreement outlining a path to improve free trade and free movement between the two countries. “I think we have ...created a platform for addressing not only the issues which brought this meeting together, but for a wider set of considerations, both in our bilateral relations, and in the relations within the wider CARICOM (Caribbean Community),” Trinidad and Tobago’s Foreign Minister Winston Dookeran said in a statement. He said he had also extended an invitation to his counterpart, Arnold J. Nicholson to visit Port of Spain by the end of the first quarter of 2014 for further consultations, having recognised the need to follow up on agreements coming out of these last two days. Dookeran had been invited to Kingston for talks by Nicholson after Port of Spain had refused entry to 13 Jamaican nationals last month that had escalated into a threat of a trade war between the two CARICOM member states. Jamaica had been critical of the decision and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a warning to nationals travelling to Trinidad and Tobago saying it was also concerned at this development and was continuing to interface with the relevant authorities in Trinidad and Tobago on the matter particularly in light of the Shanique Myrie ruling by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). “Given the paradigm shift in immigration law and procedures in relation to the treatment of CARICOM nationals entering countries of the region, both our countries recognised the need for a common approach and interpretation of the law,” Nicholson told reporters at the end of the talks on Tuesday. He said that among the decisions coming out of the discussions, was the need for hassle-free movement for Jamaicans into Trinidad and

Tobago, stressing that this must be applied in conformity with Community Law. There was also agreement between Port of Spain and Kingston that there must be a review of national legislation, to ensure uniformity in the application of the Myrie ruling by the CCJ. The CCJ earlier this year ruled that Barbados had breached the right of Myrie when she sought entry into the country in 2011, but stopped short of awarding the one million Barbados dollars in compensation she had sought. Myrie, 25, had been granted leave by the CCJ to file the action, alleged that when she travelled to Barbados on March 14, 2011 she was discriminated against because of her nationality, subjected to a body cavity search, detained overnight in a cell and deported to Jamaica the following day. Nicholson told journalists that notwithstanding the fact that a significant number of Jamaicans has entered Trinidad and Tobago without any difficulty within the last year, it was agreed that the immigration authorities of both countries must cooperate in addressing allegations of profiling. Dookeran said it would be “fair to say that we have diffused the tensions which were generated by the immigration issues recently brought to light and we want to move forward now, on the basis of our mutual interests, which again, have implications for the interests of the regional integration process itself. “What we have been able to establish during these two days of intense discussions, at least from the Trinidad and Tobago side, is the little known fact that numbers have demonstrated that for the period 2010 to 2013, 56,324 nationals of Jamaica sought entry into Trinidad and Tobago, of whom 54,362 or 96 per cent were landed”.

Cayman Islands agrees to report US citizens’ offshore assets THE Cayman Islands has signed an agreement with the United States to combat offshore tax evasion pursuant to a controversial 2010 law that has caused some notable US expatriates to revoke their US citizenship. The US Department of the Treasury announced Friday the US has signed an intergovernmental agreement with the Cayman Islands to enforce the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) in what it bills as an effort to promote transparency. In the Cayman Islands – one of the world’s largest offshore financial centers - foreign financial institutions (FFIs) will be required to share tax information about US account holders with the IRS via the Cayman Islands Tax Information Authority. Passed by Congress in 2010, FATCA seeks to snuff out Americans avoiding US taxes overseas by requiring FFIs to report yearly to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on US citizens holding over $50,000 at a year’s end. Should FFIs refuse to share the information, US financial institutions are ordered to withhold a portion of payments made to the FFIs. The FFIs can make agreements directly with the IRS or follow one of two kinds of agreements their host country signs. The Caymans’ agreement is a Model 1B agreement; a different agreement signed Tuesday with Costa Rica is a Model 1A. “By working together to detect, deter, and discourage offshore tax abuses through increased transparency and enhanced reporting, we can help build a stronger, more

stable, and accountable global financial system. We look forward to collaborating with the Government of the Cayman Islands to further these objectives,” said Julie Nutter, Minister-Counselor for Economic Affairs at the US Embassy in London, in a statement. Nutter signed the agreement for the US on Friday. The Cayman Islands signed a similar agreement with the United Kingdom early this month. “These agreements underscore growing international cooperation in the effort to end tax evasion everywhere,” said Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Tax Affairs Robert B. Stack. Yet FATCA requirements are also putting a strain on American expatriates in dual citizenship households that don’t have lavish funds hidden abroad, or that include a non-American spouse or partner who finds the IRS prying into their financial data as invasive, news service McClatchy reported Friday. “My husband cannot understand why Americans are so offended by having their personal emails and phone calls monitored by the (National Security Agency) yet are very comfortable requiring a Canadian to hand over their bank account data, which is far more sensitive,” said Ruth Anne Freeborn, an expat who has lived in Ontario for over 30 years. She decided to forego her citizenship - she was born in Oklahoma - in September. Freeborn’s husband, with a yearly salary of $51,000, is the

family’s sole income earner. He was opposed to sharing his financial data with the US following the passage of FATCA. “My decision was either to protect my Canadian spouse and child from this overreach or I could relinquish my US citizenship,” she said. “It was with great sorrow I felt I had to relinquish, but there was no other choice for me and many like me.” The amount of citizenship renunciations has gone up from 742 in 2009 to over 1,854 thus far in 2013, according to the State Department. Some estimate the number is much higher based on foreign media reports. In addition, expats say FATCA is causing many overseas banks and financial institutions to “close out longstanding accounts of American clients, refuse to open new ones, and deny loans and mortgages to expats rather than face a US penalty if they don’t comply with the tax law,” McClatchy reported. Wealthier expats may be hiding money overseas, yet most expats like Freeborn are at the mercy of the law. Entertainer Tina Turner - who has lived in Switzerland for over 20 years and is married to a Swiss citizen - relinquished her US citizenship this month at the US Embassy in Bern. And Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin forewent his citizenship last year and now lives in Singapore. The move saved him $67 million in US taxes, financial experts estimate. Meanwhile, proposals in Congress to revisit the law have stalled.

Gibson: Teachers in Bahamas can’t go on strike LABOUR Minister Shane Gibson said this week that teachers in Nassau cannot take any industrial action, despite hundreds of them agreeing to hold a strike vote next week. Speaking with The Tribune, Mr Gibson said the Bahamas Union of Teachers concerns are now before the Industrial Tribunal, meaning no action can be taken. “First of all, anytime a matter is referred to the Tribunal, it means all industrial action must cease. They can have their vote, what they do privately or as a union is really no concern to us,” he said. “The next step, I guess, would be for them to apply to the Director of Labour for him to supervise a strike vote, but you cannot supervise a vote where there is a potential cause for industrial action. They cannot strike, not if the matter is in front of the Tribunal and the union knows that. If there was some other dispute that was referred to the Tribunal and they want to take industrial action

Labour Minister Shane Gibson said the Bahamas Union of Teachers concerns are now before the Industrial Tribunal, meaning no action can be taken

in relation to that, that is fine once they follow the right steps. But if the dispute is filed at the Department of Labour they cannot strike. I am not sure why they had their vote and I do not want to speculate. At this point I have not heard of any application being filed. I heard one is supposed

to be filed, but I have not seen it. If that does happen that we will advise the organisation accordingly.” On Monday, hundreds of teaches voted “yes” to taking the formal step toward going on strike, which could happen as early as next week. According to Bahamas Union of Teachers President Belinda Wilson: ”Teachers overwhelmingly support having a strike vote. We really headed towards a strike now.” As she awaits the results of similar polls from across the Bahamas, she said last night that she would write the Department of Labour to inform them of the teachers’ decision. The Department of Labour, she said, would then have to send a representative to formally conduct a strike vote and certify the teachers’ decision to go on strike – a process she says should take no more than seven days. The Tribune contacted the Department of Labour, but calls were not returned up to press time. (Tribune242.com)

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013

Pope Francis sneaks out of Vatican to help homeless at night IN SOMETHING out of a super hero comic book, it’s been revealed that Pope Francis sneaks out of the Vatican disguised as a priest to help the homeless men and women of Rome at night. At least this is what Archbishop Konrad Krajewski, who heads the Catholic Church’s mission to seek out the poor in Rome to hand out alms, said in a recent interview. Krajewski implied that Pope Francisyes, the Pope Francis- has joined him on nightly trips into the city. The “hands-on project” which involves face to face meetings with the homeless and the poor, is managed by the church’s charity is an effort to directly impact the lives of impoverished people. Krajewski continued by saying Pope Francis said he could “sell (his) desk” and that he didn’t need it; all he needs to do is “go out and look for the poor.” According to the Huffington Post, Swiss guards have confirmed the rumors, saying that Pope Francis does sneak out of the Vatican at night, dressed as a priest, and helps with the poor. Krajewski wouldn’t confirm the speculation, only saying that when he makes his trips into the city, there is always the “risk” that the Pope will jump in the van with him. The Archbishop also says that the Pope leaves him dozens of letters every morning, inscribed with cryptic notes reading “you know

Winds may be strong enough to damage properties and injure people, the Met Office says.

Wind and coastal flood warning for Scotland and England Pope Francis is said to meet the poor face-to-face.

what to do,” “go find them,” or “go talk to them.” Pope Francis’s selflessly forgiving and unrelenting kindness has taken the world by storm, shifting the paradigm from the traditional glamour and excess with which the Vatican’s elite are usually characterized to a more compassionate and forgiving environment. From Ratzinger’s lavish outfits and his priceless shiny red shoes, Pope Francis’s frugal and altruistic behavior sets him a part from his predecessor in more ways than one. These rumors of the Pope’s borderline heroic gesture comes after his comments on global capitalism earlier this week. Warning against

excess and greed, Pope Francis chastised economic gains at the expense of social justice. “How can it be that it is not a news item when an elderly homeless person dies of exposure, but it is news when the stock market loses two points?” said Pope Francis in his first papal exhortation titled “Joy of the Gospel.” Rush Limbaugh called the Pope’s comments as “pure Marxism coming out of the mouth of the Pope.” The Pope continued his criticism of global capitalism and inequality, saying that the world is in operating on an “economy of exclusion and inequality,” adding that an economy based on such principles “kills.”

LARGE swathes of the UK were bracing for a storm that was expected to bring with it gale-force winds, possible travel disruption and the risk of some coastal flooding. Scotland was projected to be the worst affected, where 80mph winds were expected, and the north and east of England, BBC forecasters say. Communities on England’s east coast were being told to prepare for the most serious tidal surge for 30 years. Most at risk is the North Sea coast from Northumberland to the

Thames Estuary, the Environment Agency says. The Thames Barrier was due to close on Thursday night to protect London from floods. The Environment Agency said the combination of high tides, gale-force winds, large waves and a tidal surge would bring a risk of significant coastal flooding. In some places sea levels could be as high as those during the devastating floods of 1953 - although flood defences built since then meant many parts of the country were now better protected, it added. (BBC)

Ukraine unrest: Former presidents back mass protests UKRAINE’S three previous postSoviet presidents have given their support to mass anti-government protesters. In a statement, Leonid Kravchuk, Leonid Kuchma and Viktor Yushchenko expressed “solidarity” with peaceful rallies. Thousands of protesters remain camped in Kiev’s Independence Square, and are continuing to block the main government’s building. They are angry at the government’s last-minute decision not to sign an association deal with the EU. German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle on Wednesday visited protesters on Independence Square, saying that “the gates of the European Union are still open”. Meanwhile, Russia - which wants Kiev to join the Moscow-led Customs Union - has urged the West not to interfere in Ukraine. “We express solidarity with the peaceful civic actions of hundreds of thousands of young Ukrainians,” the three former presidents said in a

People have protested the passing of the bill.

French lower house passes bill to fine prostitutes’ clients Mr Yushchenko, Mr Kuchma and Mr Kravchuk (left-right) are pictured watching a football match together in September.

statement. They condemned “the excessive use of force against peaceful demonstrators” and called on all sides to refrain from further violence. They urged protest leaders and the government to engage in “open dialogue”, taking into account “the European aspirations of the Ukrainian people”. Ukraine’s special police, Berkut,

has been widely condemned for beating protesters on Independence Square last Saturday. A number of people were injured as the police cleared the protest camp - known as Maidan. The opposition - which has since retaken the square - is demanding the resignation and punishment of the interior minister.

FRENCH lawmakers voted Wednesday in favor of making it an offense to pay for sex, a move toward criminalising use of prostitutes. The bill passed the National Assembly, or lower house, by 268 votes to 138, with 79 abstaining. It must pass the Senate and be signed by the president before it becomes law, a process that could take several months. Prostitution is currently legal in France for both the prostitute and the client. The measure would impose fines of at least 1,500 euros (about $2,000)

on people caught paying for sex. The divisive proposal has sparked public demonstrations both for and against, according to CNN affiliate BFM-TV. The vast majority of lawmakers from the governing Socialist Party were expected to vote in favor, with some exceptions. The majority of the opposition center-right UMP is against the measure, as is the Green Party. Socialist lawmaker and former minister Jean Glavany wrote on his blog that he would vote “with my head, but without enthusiasm.”

December 7 - 13, 2013

World News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Former special needs high school athlete killed over $300 headphones

The tiger is suspected to have killed three villagers.

Indian teams hunt for tiger after deaths FOREST officials in the southern Indian state of Karnataka are searching for a tiger which they say has killed three villagers in the past week. Teams have gone deep into Bandipur tiger reserve with orders to shoot the “man-eater” with tranquilisers. A fourth fatality in recent days is being blamed on another tiger. Meanwhile, angry locals demanding compensation for the families of those killed have set fire to two jeeps belonging to forest officials. The villagers also want a permanent solution to the mananimal conflict in the region. The first fatal attack took place on 27 November, when a man called Basavaraju was killed. Two days later, a second victim, Cheluva, fell prey to the same tiger, officials believe. They say the animal was last spotted on 30 November. Its latest presumed victim,

60-year-old farmer Shivamallappa Basappa, was found by his son on Tuesday night close to the forest in Mysore district. Only parts of his leg and skull remained. “The body of the third farmer who was killed has been found. We have seen the pug marks of the tiger. It is moving around somewhere close by,” HC Kantharaju, conservator of forests in Bandipur tiger reserve, told BBC Hindi. “We will try to pump in tranquilisers as soon as our colleagues find the rogue tiger,” C Shrinivasan, director of Project Tiger in Mysore, said. A fourth farmer has also been killed in the same area but forest officials say they believe he was killed by another tiger as “no part of his body was eaten”. The killings have created tension in up to 20 villages, with angry farmers vandalising a forest department office and setting fire to two jeeps. (BBC)

Florida man kills self after fatally shooting wife and son with crossbow: cops A 53-YEAR-old man killed himself inside a Florida motel room early Wednesday, ending an hours-long manhunt that was launched after his wife and their 17-year-old son were found dead in their home, police said. Pedro Maldonado, 53, apparently slit his own throat in the bathroom of the room he rented at the Lake City motel after he killed his wife, Monica Narvaez-Maldonado, 47, and their son, Pedro Maldonado Jr., inside the family’s Weston townhouse, authorities said. The crazed dad allegedly tried to kill another son, who managed to get away during the attack on Tuesday, police said. Investigators believe Maldonado’s bloody rampage began on Monday, when he fatally shot his wife and their teenaged son with a hand-held

crossbow that fires small arrows inside their home, located in the outskirts of Fort Lauderdale, the Broward Sheriff’s Office said in a statement. The father then drove to Tallahassee, where his 21-year-old son, Jose Maldonado, attends Florida State University, authorities said. On Tuesday morning, the armed man fired the crossbow at his son - who ducked out of the way and was only nicked in the ear by the arrow, police said. The murderous dad then jumped on his son and began to choke him, but the college student broke free, police said. The father fled, but his son didn’t report the attack. Pedro Maldonado allegedly called a friend in Miami and confessed to the murders about 4:15 p.m. Tuesday, police said. (NYdailynews.com)

A HULKING, special needs former high school athlete known as a “gentle giant” for his sweet disposition was shot and killed in Philadelphia Saturday night when he refused to give a thief his brand new $300 “Beats by Dre” headphones. Christian Massey, 21, took six years to graduate from Marple Newtown High School, during which time the massive 6-foot-2, 300-pound student athlete played football, basketball and even a year of lacrosse, when he pitched in to fill the goalie spot with his immense frame, the Philadelphia Daily News reports. He quickly became a recognizable — and beloved — figure at the school. “With Christian, it was about being involved and feeling like he belonged,” Dennis Reardon, the school’s assistant principal and athletic director, told the newspaper. “He was just a lovable kid who was a big part of our school, a spirited kid who was good to other people. There’s no question about it that this news has rocked the whole school. There was pain on the faces of a lot people today. People rallied around this kid. He was well-loved by all.” Massey spent time in a programme for special needs students before graduating in June. He had planned to enroll in a postgraduate construction programme. On Black Friday, the jolly former athlete bought the popular headphones and wore them Saturday

Christian Massey (pictured) ‘was just a lovable kid who was a big part of our school, a spirited kid who was good to other people,’ said the former athletic director, Dennis Reardon, of the massive 21-year-old who was killed over headphones in Philadelphia.

evening while walking to a friend’s house. A gunman squeezed off five rounds after Massey refused to give up the headphones, NBC Philadelphia reports. The headphones the shooter killed for lay by the dying man when

police arrived on scene. Massey told cops of the robbery attempt before passing away at a local hospital half an hour later. Cops say no one has been arrested in the slaying, one of six homicides in Philadelphia over the weekend. (NYdailynews.com)

Somali Parliament ousts Prime Minister SOMALIA’S Parliament ousted the country’s Prime Minister in a vote of no confidence Monday after a dispute between him and the President over Cabinet picks. The move against Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdon is the latest government shake-up for a country that has struggled to achieve an effective central government since a dictator’s overthrow two decades ago. Shirdon, in office less than 14 months, lost the confidence vote 18465, Parliament Speaker Mohamed Osman Jawari said. He said the current government will remain until a new prime minister takes office. Somalia’s constitution gives President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud a month to appoint a new prime minister, who would need to be confirmed by Parliament. Mohamud appointed Shirdon to the post in October 2012, just a month after lawmakers elected Mohamud to his office. But relations between the two leaders soured when Shirdon, who was supposed to serve a four-year term, refused to put Mohamud’s

Somalia’s former Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdon speaking in Mogadishu on December 2, 2013.

picks into the Cabinet, which was going to be reshuffled and expanded. “Some members of the Cabinet who are looking for their own interest, and not the interest of the nation, are the ones behind” the no-confidence vote, Shirdon told reporters in his office on Monday. He said before the vote that he would comply with whatever decision the Parliament made. Mohamud said Monday that he recognised “the effort and the

dedication of the outgoing Prime Minister and his Cabinet.” “I also congratulate the speaker and his deputies (for) their leadership of the Parliament’s deliberation in this critical time of the Parliament’s history,” Mohamud said in a news release. Shirdon is the fifth Somali prime minister removed from his post without finishing his term since dictator Mohamed Siad Barre was overthrown 22 years ago. (CNN)

Job Listings Services Auto sales real estate

Classifieds TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Brama Kumaris

FOR RENT

3-bedroom apartment $1100.00 per month it will be available May 1st.

contact: 946-4664

Raja Yoga

December 7 - 13, 2013

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

GRACEBAY SUITES

Providenciales Turks and Caicos Islands BWI

Is looking for

Meditation Centre Turks and Caicos Islands

Telephone 946-4760 & 332-4101

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

FOR SALE

Cleaners/ Maids For upcoming season. Bring resume. Belongers only.

9068

Construction scaffold and roof tiles for sale CONTACT: 431-1591 OR 231-3788

December 7 - 13, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS 33

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

SALE!!! Professional Accountant FLOWER GIRL TEDDYS, ROSES, BASKETS Sale on wedding favors, nick naks, pillows, knives etc.

25%–35% OFF CONTACT: 649-946-4894

Amazing Value! Lot for Sale

In Gated/Planned Community in Long Bay. Flamingo Crossing lot comes with full set of House Plans, all underground utilities, etc.

$49,999 o.b.o. Call 231-3788

Job Responsibilities:

• Manage audit and assurance engagements; • Management of associate staff; and • Preparation of management reports and deliverables for clients.

Qualifications Required: • • • •

Professional accounting designation (CA or CPA) is required; Experience as an audit manager with a professional accounting firm; Bachelors degree with business and accounting major; and Minimum of 10 years experience with a professional accounting firm.

This position is immediately available. Salary for this position will be based on qualifications and experience. All applicants will be reviewed; however only qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview. Applicants should apply in writing or email by December 9th 2013 to:

WB Financial Management Ltd. PO Box 137, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands Email: info@wbfinancial.tc Fax: 649-941-7498 9489

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

PRICE SLASHED FOR QUICK SALE

PRICE SLASHED $180,000 CASH! $175,000

House and ½ Acre land Richmond Hill 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Fully furnished

Call: 231-3788

34 CLASSIFIEDS AGNES SWANN ALBERT’S CLEANING SERVICES Is looking for a

BENJAMIN WALKIN

B & B CONSTRUCTION & WOOD WORK Is looking for a

Is looking for a

Labourer

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 246-4769

9537

HENRY SMITH Is looking for a

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Cabinet Maker / Finishing Carpenter is looking for a

Labourer To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

contact: 243-7785

9526

laboUrer

To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour. Contact: 231-0770

9462

Function: • Builds and repairs all types of furniture, doors and other wooden equipment. • Designs and estimate projects in Cabinet Making / Finishing Carpentry • The successful candidate must: • Graduate from a standard vocational or high school with proven experience as a Cabinet maker/ Finishing Carpentry; or any equivalent combination of training and experience • Must have at least ten (10) years working experience in Wood work / Finishing Carpentry including supervisory experience • Be flexible to work daily including weekends and public holidays at various locations in TCI • Possess a valid driver’s License • Have proven excellent inter-personal skills in interacting with customers, staff and management • Salary negotiable, commensurate with qualification and experience

Please submit application letter and resume to: bac@tciway.tc. The application deadline is December 20, 2013. Suitable candidates will be contacted for an interview

HOUSEHOLD Seeks

CAICOS LIVEABOARD DIVING LTD.

DIVEMASTER

gardener/ labourer To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 242-1016

9529

• Must be a valid PADI Divemaster • Must have working knowledge and experience in boat engineering • Must hold a B1B2 visa for the USA • Must be fluent in English, Spanish and German • Minimum of 3 years working on boats • Experience in the hospitality industry • Be prepared to work long hours including weekends, holidays and to live onboard the boat • Starting salary $400.00 BELONGERS NEED ONLY APPLY

Please email resume to: tcaggressor@ express.tc or telephone: 649-342-3052

FLOWER GIRL Is looking for a Part-time

delivery driver With own transportation who is interested in making extra cash.

Contact: 231-3788

HERMAN HANDFIELD

To work 6 days per week salary $5.50 per hour resumes should be directed to Promovi Limited c/o P.O. Box 382, Providenciales or emailed to: GrandTurkWork@ hotmail.com

Seeks the following:

handyman To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 231-0998

9533

CAICOS LIVEABOARD DIVING LTD.

OPEN WATER SCUBA DIVING INSTRUCTOR

9520

• Must hold a 200 tonne MCA Captains License • Must have 4 years experience on a liveaboard diving vessel • Open water scuba diving instructor valid PADI/SSI/ TDI membership and liability insurance • Minimum of 5 specialty ratings • Working knowledge of underwater camera/videos with editing skills • Computer literate • STCW95 compliant • Be prepared to work long hours including weekends, holidays and to live onboard the boat • Experience in hospitality industry • Starting salary $400.00 BELONGERS NEED ONLY APPLY

9500

9519

COLMELITA HANDFIELD NORTH CAICOS

Is looking for a

Please email resumes to: tcaggressor@express.tc or telephone: 649-342-3052

NANNY/ HOUSEKEEPER

One Labourer To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour

Contact: 649-946-7705

J & C PAWN SHOP Is looking for a

Pawn broker/ sales person To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour. contact: 243-4754

9503

Fitness Instructor Position available for an energetic and motivate Fitness Instructor with excellent knowledge of anatomy, muscle function and body movement along with the following additional qualifications: • Fitness Instructor must be certified in Yoga/Personal Training • Minimum 10 years experience Applicants should also be experienced in teaching a range of classes including special population pre & post natal, sports conditioning and rehabilitation. Salary will commensurate with experience and qualifications. Belongers are particularly encouraged to apply. 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.

9510

December 7 - 13, 2013

CLASSIFIEDS 35

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Trailblazer Sports Academy Inc.

TURKS AND CAICOS FIRST INSURANCE COMPANY

VACANCY

Director Of Operations

BRANCH MANAGER/ FINANCIAL CONTROLLER

Trailblazers Sports Academy Inc has an immediate opening for a Director of Operations. Reporting to the Board this essential position has responsibility for media and public relations, as well as the development of all youth development and senior sports programs within the organization. The ideal candidate must be personable, results orientated, creative and innovative and posses a sound knowledge of coaching techniques for an array of sports including but not limited to Soccer, Beach Soccer, Indoor Soccer, Rugby, Basketball, Cricket, Volleyball both indoor and beach, Softball. This candidate must have appropriate qualifications in education i.e.: a proven background in both teaching and managing children at a range of ages. Candidates will only be considered if they have proof of 10 years coaching experience at International Level. Candidate will need to have a valid drivers license and a clean police record.

APPLICATIONS ARE REQUESTED FOR THE ABOVE-MENTIONED DUAL ROLE POSITION • Preparation of monthly financial statements • Detailed budgeting and cost control • Cash flow forecasting and treasury management • Monthly compilation of sums insured aggregates • Liaison with outside auditors as well as manage yearly audit • Perform internal audits • Quarterly and yearly report submission to the FSC • Implementing and documenting policies and procedures • Leading and developing staff • Manage all administration and human resource functions in office • Branch office management • Reporting to shareholders • Head office reporting • MLRO and MLCO Compliance Certificates

Interested Turks Islander Applicants are asked to submit your resume by e-mail to The Manager ms@tcifirst.com.

For immediate consideration, applications should be hand delivered to Unit J101 The Regent Village FAO CEO Tracey Hurdle. Applications should include the following documents: Covering Letter, Current resume, Two (2) Reference Letters From Previous Employers, Current Police Record, Resident Status

9511

NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION Scotiabank (Turks & Caicos) Ltd. of Cherokee Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands hereby gives notice of its intention to sell by Public Auction the following properties pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands:

1. Parcel 60807/170

The Bight & Thomas Stubbs This property comprises of a single storey, three bedrooms, two bathrooms individually constructed residence of fair specification with an attached studio apartment and an integral garage currently enclosed and used as a deck. Registered Proprietor: Thoshena Terrell Adderley

Island Consultancy Co. Ltd For the purpose of providing Business Development consulting services to internationally operating resort and real estate development projects, Island Consultancy Co Ltd. is seeking for:

Business Development Consultant

2. Parcel 60900/147

Leeward Going Through, Providenciales this property comprises of a main house with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen, living room, dining room, utility room and storage closets. There is also a guest house to the rear of property comprising of two bedrooms, two bathrooms, kitchen and living/dining area. Externally, there are boundary walls and landscaping to the grounds. Registered Proprietor: Bloney Beatrice Smith

3. Parcel 60900/366

Leeward Going Through, Providenciales this property comprises of a detached single storey building with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, living room and dining room. Additional work include an open terrace to rear, front boundary walls and gateways. Registered Proprietor: Oscar Keith Talbot and Florinda Louise Talbot

• Proven ability to create international business development concepts for large resort and real estate organizations. • Extensive experience evaluating competitive environments, target group analysis as well as target markets. • Excellent written and oral skills in at least 2 languages required. • International education in Business. Minimum Bachelor Degree of an internationally accredited university. Equivalent to Masters Degree preferred. • At least 8 - 10 years in Business Development in the Real Estate industry. • Proficient in MS Word, Excel and Powerpoint.

4. Parcel 60003/127

North West & North Central, Providenciales this property forms part of phase one of the Priton Homes affordable housing scheme which consist of three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, living/dining area and laundry room. Registered Proprietor: Alfred Hurbert Stuart and Julianna Adiola Stuart

5. Parcel 60503/152

Blue Hills & Stamers Run, Providenciales this property comprises of a single storey detached residence two bedrooms, one bathroom with an open living/dining area, a kitchen and laundry room. Registered Proprietor: Kirkley George Rigby

Applicants are required to provide samples of their previous work with reference letters. Remuneration according to experience level.

Qualified candidates are asked to e-mail resumes and work samples by December 19, 2013 to: info@milo-group.com 9535

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

The salary scale for this position is $48,000.00 to $72,000.00 per annum. Starting salary is commensurate with qualifications, education and experience.

Only applicants meeting minimum qualifications will be contacted. Closing date December 13, 2013.

Applicants should be designated CPA, CA, or CGA and have a minimum 10 years management experience with at least 5 years experience at the Financial Controller level in the Insurance Industry. Applicant must also possess 5 years experience managing an insurance company at the branch level. Must be proficient in Microsoft Excel and major Microsoft office automation products and have strong analytical and organizational skills as well as strong written and verbal communication skills. A proven strong work ethic is essential. Remuneration is based on experience.

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

NB: This position requires long hours, work on evenings, weekends AND Public Holidays.

The auction will be held at the offices of Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Limited, Grace Bay Branch, Providenciales at 10 o’clock in the morning on Friday the 20th day of December 2013 A reserve price will be fixed on all parcels. A deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids. Terms and Conditions of Sale by Auction are available by request from Scotiabank Collections Department (649) 339-7100. 9533

36 CLASSIFIEDS

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Lew 1 Shipping seeks

One Labourer To work five(5) days per week. Contact: 941-5707

MARGUERITE OLILON MISSICK Is looking for a

Labourer

To work 6 days per week salary based on commission.

contact: 343-5089

contact: 342-7161

To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

THE ALMENDRO BAR

Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands

CERTIFIED CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT JOB DESCRIPTION • Minimum of 10 years professional accounting experience required. • Must be in good standing with International Accounting Institute. • Must possess advance skills in spreadsheet, word processing and accounting software. • Salary : Commensurate based on qualification and experience. • Only Turks Islanders need apply.

Please fax resumes to: 946-5166 9509

Is looking for a

Seamstress 9563

CFS LTD

PRECIOUS SEWING CENTER

Is looking for 2

SOUTHERN CONSTRUCTION

To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 241-1578

9517

Is seeking a

Nail Technician Applicant must have qualification and at least 4 years experience. Salary based on experience.

Fax resumes: 649-941-8673 9520 Robert Ferrier

SHAY CAFÉ

Is looking for a

TWO LABOURERS

WAITERS

RHONDDA’S BEAUTY SALON

Domestic

NEEDED waitress worker To work 6 days To work 6 days

To work 5-6 days per week will be required to assist in all areas of construction including the removal of debris and working with concrete salary $7.00 per hour.

contact: 231-6089

9528

per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 345-2566 9527

per week. Salary $5 per hour. contact 232-0876

DUNCANSON & CO. Barristers & Attorneys

PUBLIC NOTICE DUNCANSON & CO. Barristers & Attorneys are pleased to announce the re-opening of our Leeward Highway Office for ongoing legal services to the public. We are located in our own building across the street from the Supreme Court complex, next door to the offices of TC Weekly News and between that and the St. Monica's Anglican Church. We specialize in: • Civil Litigation (Particular competencies: Judicial Review and other claims against TCI Government/Departments, Mareva and other Injunctions, Land, Trust & Bank disputes) • Property Matters, Planning Department & Development Issues • Business Law • Immigration • Labour Disputes Telephone: (649) 941-4444 Telefax: (649) 941-4235 Cellphone: (649) 245-1314 email: berynd@yahoo.com DUNCANSON & CO. Barristers & Attorneys

PO Box 52, Cheshire House East 1315A Leeward Highway, Providenciales

Newly renovated office space, above The Flower Girl

1,000 sq ft. facing Leeward Highway and overlooking Flamingo Lake. Ideal for a lawyer's office, spa, real estate business, doctor's or dental offices, etc.

Reasonable rent Contact 9464894, 9464664 or email tcnews@tciway.tc

December 7 - 13, 2013

THOMAS WATKINS III Is looking for a

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS TURKS AND CAICOS ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT LTD.

Landfill Supervisor

domestic worker To work 5 days

per week salary $5.00 per hour. contact: 231-1414

9508

Requirements: • Minimum of 10 years experience in sanitary landfills operations with US EPA Subtitle D (or equivalent) procedures • Required Certifications: SWANA Solid Waste, Machinery Operators, Landfill Operator Certification • References required Salary negotiable

VIA VENETO RESTAURANT Is looking for an

ASSISTANT MANAGER

Contact: 244-4829

9530

• Must have 5 years experience in restaurant management • Must know MICRO System • Must have Italian background • Must have experience working in a fast pace Italian restaurant • Must have experience in coaching and training of the staff • Salary commensurate with experience

Contact: 941-2372

9514

WATERSPORTS INSTRUCTOR FOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURE SCHOOL Must have the following: • Minimum of 10 years experience with children and teens as a camp counselor, teacher or instructor in an experiential and outdoor setting • Current instructor certifications in wakeboarding and waterskiing • Expert swimmer, kiteboarder, kayaker, paddleboarder and be knowledgeable about the local marine environment and TCI culture • Current first aid and CPR Certifications • Degree in fish and wildlife or outdoor education from a college or university • Minium Class 2 Boat Masters License and STCW Certification and be able to captain boats up to 30 feet • Must be able to work holidays, weekends • Must have a valid TCI Drivers license ONLY

TCI Belongers need only apply all qualified applicants please send resumes to: surfsidetci@gmail.com for consideration

CLASSIFIEDS 37

Business Development Consultant

Qualified candidates are asked to e-mail resumes and work samples by December 19, 2013 to: info@milo-group.com

9539

NOTICE OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION 9501

Scotiabank (Turks & Caicos) Ltd. of Cherokee Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands hereby gives notice of its intention to sell by Public Auction the following properties pursuant to its power of sale as registered Chargee under the Registered Land Ordinance of the Turks and Caicos Islands:

1. Parcel 60504\148 Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands

Paradise Smiles is looking to fill the following positions: Dental Hygienist

Job Duties: • Checking gums and teeth for oral abnormalities • Taking and developing dental x-rays • Educating patients on oral hygiene • Developing care plans for maintaining good dental hygiene • Smoothing and polishing metal restorations • Fluoride administration and sealant applications • Administering local anesthetic • Removing stains and plaque • Preparing and maintaining dental instruments, supplies and equipment.

Dental Technician

Job Duties: • Read prescriptions or specifications, and examine models and impressions, in order to determine the design of dental products to be constructed. • Fabricate, alter, and repair dental devices such as dentures, crowns, bridges, inlays, and appliances for straightening teeth. • Melt metals or mix plaster, porcelain, or acrylic pastes; and pour materials into molds or over frameworks in order to form dental prostheses or apparatus. • Load newly constructed teeth into porcelain furnaces in order to bake the porcelain onto the metal framework. • Prepare wax bite-blocks and impression trays for use. • Mold wax over denture set-ups in order to form the full contours of artificial gums. • Rebuild or replace linings, wire sections, and missing teeth in order to repair dentures. • Shape and solder wire and metal frames or bands for dental products, using soldering irons and hand tools. • Train and supervise other dental laboratory bench workers. Pay will commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Please submit applications to email: paradise.smiles12@gmail.com

Blue Hills & Stammers Run, Providenciales, this property comprises of a single storey residential development on an elevated lot. This accommodation comprises of a three bedroom, three bathroom residence with open plan dining/living areas and kitchen. Registered Proprietor: Nigel Augustus Lindsay

2. Parcel 60900\187

Leeward Going Through, Providenciales, this property forms part of the Leeward Palms Residential sub-division. The property comprises of a main house and two small detached one bed room guest houses. The main house comprises four bed rooms, three bathrooms and one living area and kitchen. The guest houses each comprise one bed room, bathroom and open concept living areas. Registered Proprietor: Jacqueline Edna Brown

3. Parcel 60611\67

Norway and Five Cays, Providenciales, this property is located on the east side of South Dock Highway with frontage onto the paved access road which runs along the South and West boundaries. The subject property is of regular shape and is a corner lot with approximately 188 linear feet of unpaved access road footage. Registered Proprietor: Anisha Crishell Ewing

4. Parcel 60905\123

Leeward Going Through, Providenciales, the property is located on Castle Road on land two tiers behind the Mansion condominium development. This residence comprises of a detached single two bedroom, two bathrooms, one living/dining room, and one kitchen and laundry room. Registered Proprietor: Colin Whittingham & Avril Joan Whittingham The auction will be held at the offices of Scotiabank (Turks and Caicos) Limited, Grace Bay Branch, Providenciales at 10 o’clock in the morning on Friday the 20th day of November 2013 A reserve price will be fixed on all parcels. A deposit of 10% is due immediately upon all accepted bids. Terms and Conditions of Sale by Auction are available by request from Scotiabank Collections Department (649) 339-7100. 9534

MICHELLE ROBINSON Is looking for a

Labourer To work 5 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact: 941-4739 Is looking for the following positions:

Tile Layer Mason Salary $7.00 per hour.

Contact: 346-6622

9501

WARD’S CONSULTANCY Acting on behalf of our clients: E Y Contractor, Yoshi Sushi Bar is looking to fill the following positions:

• Seamstress • Dining Room Supervisor • Assistant Manager Salary $8.00 per hour based salary $500.00 per week. Must be willing to work 6 days per week.

Contact: 649-345-7512

9504

9502

CARLISLE SUPPLIES

Is looking for a

Labourer To work 6 days per week salary $6.00 per hour Duties: • General warehouse duties • Cleaning outside area and gardening

cosmetologist

tile layer To work 5 days

contact: 241-5922

contact: 231-1489

Email: info@misickstandbrook.tc

FULL TIME MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIST REQUIRED

GENARRA JONES

Salary $6.00 per hour.

9499

per week salary $8.00 per hour.

9493

9498

Is looking for a

DOMESTIC WORKER To work 3 days

Duties include

• Good interpersonal skills • Five (5) years experience • Performing phlebotomy • Processing and testing of blood samples

Education:

• minimum education requirements; • Bachelors Degree in Medical Technology with required certification • eligible for registration with the Health Practitioners Board Turks & Caicos Islands • salary commensurate with experience

per week. Salary $5.00 per hour

Send CV’s and certificates in confidence to email: neffer.malcolm@gmail.com

CONTACT: 242-1664

LABOURER - General Labour - Able to work with little or no supervision, be physically fit, dependable and hard working. - Must be self motivated and able to understand, read, write and speak English fluently.

MISSICK SKIN CARE AND BEAUTY AID

SORA JAPANESE RESTAURANT

• Preparing all types of Japanese cuisine • Order food and supplies when needed • Selecting fresh and superior ingredients • Continually check the quality of raw and cooked products • Instruct cooks on preparation, cooking and garnishing of food • Creating an appealing presentation and garnishes • Keeping up with the latest trends Please contact: karlmontagne@gmail.com

Is looking for a

hairdresser

To work 6 days per week salary $200 per week.

Send inquiries to:

JC’s Salon & Beauty Supplies Whitby, North Caicos Turks&CaicosIslands Telephone: (649) 231-4885

9492

Send resume to GTC Limited, po box 543 Belongers only need apply 9496

Acting on behalf of our client: Accelent Hair Care is looking for a

CALASCO

9490

Contact: 242-9472

9497

Responsibilities to include supervision of wait staff, reservations, and running of dining room during service. Must have knowledge of wines, especially Italian. Must have 5 years experience in the industry. Must be willing to work nights, weekends and public holidays. Salary $350 per week, not including gratuities.

C & S PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

9494

Maitre D

PORT ATLANTIC CONSTRUCTION

December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Turks & Caicos Banking Company Limited

Chief Operating Officer Requirements:

- Masters Degree in Finance or equivalent qualification - Minimum of 10 years experience in senior position at a European financial institution. - Language Skills in French and German - Profound knowledge of private and commercial banking - Equities, Forex and Metal Trading experience - Strong Leadership and Communication skills - Extensive IT Hardware and Network knowledge - HR Management and Board Position Background Please submit CV to:

Turks and Caicos Banking Company Ltd. Attn: Human Resources, The Regent Village, Unit H102 Grace Bay Road, PO Box 777, Providenciales. services@tcbc.tc

9495

38 CLASSIFIEDS

December 7 - 13, 2013

ALBERTS HIGGS NORTH CAICOS

POSITION AVAILABLE

Is looking for a

Warehouse Stocker To work 6 days per week salary $6.50 per hour.

A busy fine dining restaurant in one of Providenciales’ Resorts is inviting applications for the following positions:

Maitre D ;;Working a split shift; all public holidays and weekends; you will be responsible for ensuring the table setting and general condition of the restaurant is up to standards; scheduling, organizing and training of wait staff to ensure effortless and seamless service each night; implementing ongoing programs to upgrade FOH skills and knowledge on bar, wine and fine dining service. ;;The ideal candidate will ensure and personally supervise that the highest level of hygiene standards are maintained at the bar and in the dining room. As the liaison between the kitchen and FOH, you will ensure the wait staff is properly briefed of daily specials to be able to sell more menu items; possessing and exceedingly pleasant and unflabbable personality, readily able to assist with all guest complaints to a positive resolution for each incident. ;;The candidate will assist the assistant manager in managing established labour and beverage cost; cocktail mixology and wine knowledge is required to work closely with the chef for interesting and “avant garde” pairing for food to beverage titillating the senses our patrons have come to expect; when called upon, interfacing with management for feedback with regards guests comments on all food menus, wine list, cocktail list and meeting service expectations; good “soft sell” techniques are essential; computer literacy in MS Word and Excel is mandatory ;;Base salary $500.00 per week Qualified Belongers only

Please submit resumes to P.O. Box 459, Providenciales

The leading and trusted security company in TCI is in need of personnel to fill up the following position for our expansion.

9481

VACANCIES SECURITY OFFICER/SUPERVISOR

Responsibilities:

Safe guard the clients lives and properties Prevent/deter crimes from happening Crowd management Write reports

Qualifications: • • • • •

Minimum of 4 years military/police experience or 5-6 years security officer experience Must have basic personal safety and other security training certificate Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills (English) Can follow instructions and write comprehensive reports Must be an excellent team-player

Salary starts $6.00 per hour.

How to apply:

1. Submit resume’ with application letter, employment and training certificates, police record, passport, proof of residence or citizenship to Spence Security office 2. Wait for Spence Security personnel to call you for an interview Interested applicants should send resume’ and applicable certificates address to: ‘The Personnel Manager’ not later than December 11TH, 2013 to: SPENCE SECURITY & INVESTIGATION SERVICES, LTD. P.O BOX #73, Caribbean Place, Leeward Highway, Providenciales Email address: spencesecurity@tciway.tc Fax: 941-3027 BELONGER ONLY NEED APPLY. Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.

Contact: 243-7785

TCI LOTTO GAMES LTD. is hiring an

Assistant Manager Reporting directly to the Directors of the company

SUMMARY OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

SPENCE SECURITY & INVESTIGATION SERVICES, LTD

• • • •

CLASSIFIEDS 39

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Oversee all of the day-to-day managerial functions: maintain the integrity of the online gaming system; assure compliance of the rules and regulations of the government, the company and the industry; prepares budgets-operating, marketing and special projects; ensure adequate staffing-hire, train, evaluate and discipline; procure and ensure adequate inventory of operating supplies; identify and coordinate employees/customers/third parties/suppliers and vendors special events; project manager of special projects; interface with external forces on behalf of the directors; coordinate and provide the company’s directors with operational reports

TECHNICAL AND PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCIES • • • • • • • •

Online Gaming System Management In-depth understanding of the Gaming Industry Ability to develop and implement budgets Ability to make crucial/good business decisions Strong understanding of Human Resource Management Strong understanding of Third Parties Relationships Strong understanding of Customer Service Satisfaction Results Driven – Ability to prioritize and complete multiple tasks within specified timeframes • Excellent communication skills; written and verbal • Excellent interpersonal skills • Problem Solver (Conflict resolution management)

QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Proficient knowledge of the FML Group of Companies’ Online Gaming Operating System; or a “comparable” Online Gaming Operating System • At least eight (8) to ten (10) years experience in Business Management with particular focus on: • Development and implementation of budgets • Coordination and preparation of reports • Employees Management (not less than a team of ten (10) persons • Customer Service Satisfaction Management • Conflict Resolution Management

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES • • • • •

An unblemished character (substantiated by at least three verifiable references) A professional demeanor with a pleasant personality Excellent interpersonal skills Self motivated and adherent to timelines Respect for authorities, peers and subordinates All applications should be addressed to:

The Managing Director Harbour House Grand Turks, Turks and Caicos Islands Email address: namesake_alt@hotmail.com Telephone: 649-331-5691

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Science & Technology

December 7 - 13, 2013

Caffeine energy drinks ‘intensify heart contractions’ THE team from the University of Bonn in Germany imaged the hearts of 17 people an hour after they had an energy drink. The study showed contractions were more forceful after the drink. The team told the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America that children and people with some health conditions should avoid the drinks. Researcher Dr Jonas Dorner said: “Until now, we haven’t known exactly what effect these energy drinks have on the function of the heart. “The amount of caffeine is up to three times higher than in other caffeinated beverages like coffee or cola. “There are many side effects known to be associated with a high intake of caffeine, including rapid heart rate, palpitations, rise in blood pressure and, in the most severe cases, seizures or sudden death.” The researchers gave the participants a drink containing 32mg per 100ml of caffeine and 400mg per 100ml of another chemical, taurine. They showed the chamber of

The Pit of Bones has yielded one of the richest assemblages of human bones from this era.

Leg bone gives up oldest human DNA

Energy drinks packed with caffeine can change the way the heart beats, researchers warn.

the heart that pumps blood around the body, the left ventricle, was contracting harder an hour after the energy drink was taken than at the start of the study. Dr Dorner added: “We’ve shown that energy drink consumption has a short-term impact on cardiac contractility. “We don’t know exactly how or if this greater contractility of the heart

impacts daily activities or athletic performance.” The impact on people with heart disease is also unknown. However, the research team advises that children and people with an irregular heartbeat should avoid the drinks. The British Soft Drinks Association already says the drinks are not for children. (BBC)

THE discovery of DNA in a 400,000-year-old human thigh bone will open up a new frontier in the study of our ancestors. That’s the verdict cast by human evolution experts on an analysis in Nature journal of the oldest human genetic material ever sequenced. The femur comes from the famed “Pit of Bones” site in Spain, which gave up the remains of at least 28 ancient people. But the results are perplexing, raising more questions than answers about our increasingly complex family tree. The early human remains from

the cave site near the northern Spanish city of Burgos have been painstakingly excavated and pieced together over the course of more than two decades. It has yielded one of the richest assemblages of human bones from this stage of human evolution, in a time called the Middle Pleistocene. To access the pit (called Sima de los Huesos in Spanish) scientists must crawl for hundreds of metres through narrow cave tunnels and rope down through the dark. The bodies were probably deposited there deliberately - their causes of death unknown.

‘Healthy and overweight’ is a myth, study suggests THE idea of “healthy obesity” is a myth, research suggests. Excess fat still carries health risks even when cholesterol, blood pressure and sugar levels are normal, according to a study of more than 60,000 people. It has been argued that being overweight does not necessarily imply health risks if individuals remain healthy in other ways. The research, published in Annals of Internal Medicine, contradicts this idea. The study looked at findings from published studies tracking heart health and weight in more than 60,000 adults. Researchers from the Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, found there was no healthy pattern of increased weight when heart health was monitored for more than 10 years. They argue that people who are metabolically healthy but overweight probably have underlying risk factors that worsen over time. Study leader Dr Ravi Retnakaran told BBC News: “This really casts doubt on the existence of healthy obesity. “This data is suggesting that both patients who are obese who are metabolically unhealthy and patients

A small-scale study by researchers at the Sapienza University of Rome has raised hopes that with the TB vaccine MS can be warded off when early symptoms appear.

TB vaccine ‘could help prevent MS’

Excess fat still carries health risks even when cholesterol, blood pressure and sugar levels are normal, according to a study of more than 60,000 people.

who are obese who are metabolically healthy are both at increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease, such that benign obesity may indeed be a myth.” The British Heart Foundation says obesity is a known risk factor for heart disease and the research shows there is no healthy level of obesity. Senior cardiac nurse, Doireann Maddock, said: “So, even if your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels are normal, being obese can still put your heart at risk.”

She said it was useful to think of lifestyle overall rather than individual risk factors. “As well as watching your weight, if you stop smoking, get regular physical activity and keep your blood pressure and cholesterol levels at a healthy level, you can make a real difference in reducing your risk of heart disease. “If you are concerned about your weight and want to know more about the changes you should make, visit your GP to talk it through.” (BCC)

AN anti-tuberculosis vaccine could prevent multiple sclerosis, early research suggests. A small-scale study by researchers at the Sapienza University of Rome has raised hopes that the disease can be warded off when early symptoms appear. More research is needed before the BCG vaccine can be trialled on MS patients. The MS Society said the chance to take a safe and effective preventative treatment after a first MS-like attack would be a huge step forward. MS is a disease affecting nerves in the brain and spinal cord, causing problems with muscle movement, balance and vision. Early signs include numbness, vision difficulties or problems with balance. About half of people with a

first episode of symptoms go on to develop MS within two years, while 10% have no more problems. In the study, published in the journal Neurology, Italian researchers gave 33 people who had early signs of MS an injection of BCG vaccine. The other 40 individuals in the study were given a placebo. After five years, 30% of those who received the placebo had not developed MS, compared with 58% of those vaccinated. “These results are promising, but much more research needs to be done to learn more about the safety and long-term effects of this live vaccine,” said study leader Dr Giovanni Ristori. “Doctors should not start using this vaccine to treat MS or clinically isolated syndrome.”

December 7 - 13, 2013

Sports Interational

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Mandela: Sport pays tribute to former South Africa president FIFA president Sepp Blatter has led the sporting tributes to his “dear friend”, South Africa’s first black president Nelson Mandela, who has died aged 95. Mr Mandela had used sport to bring his country together following strict

racial segregation by his predecessors. Blatter said: “It is in deep mourning that I pay my respects to an extraordinary person. “He and I shared an unwavering belief in the extraordinary power of football to unite people.”

Di Luca handed life cycling ban after third doping offence DANILO Di Luca has been banned from cycling for life after being found guilty of a third doping offence by an Italian Olympic Committee tribunal. The 2007 Giro d’Italia winner tested positive for the banned blood booster erythropoietin (EPO) following an out-ofcompetition test in April. Di Luca was also fined £29,300 and ordered to pay the cost of the proceedings. The Italian was banned for 15 months in 2009 for a failed EPO test. He had been suspended for three months in 2007 for visiting a doctor banned

Danilo Di Luca was banned for 15 months in 2009 for a failed EPO test.

for his involvement in doping. The 37-year-old was sacked in May by the Vini Fantini team, whose team director Luca Scinto said they would be seeking compensation. (BBC)

Blatter added: “He was probably one of the greatest humanists of our time.” Mr Mandela once stated: “Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire, it has the power to unite people, in a way that little else does.” Fifa’s president hailed Mr Mandela’s impact on football’s 2010 World Cup in South Africa and said there would be a minute’s silence as a mark of respect ahead of the next round of international matches. “When he was honoured and cheered by the crowd at Johannesburg’s Soccer City stadium on 11 July 2010, it was as a man of the people, a man of their hearts. “It was one of the most moving moments I have ever experienced. For him, the World Cup in South Africa truly was ‘a dream come true’,” Blatter added. After he was elected as president in 1994, the 1995 Rugby World Cup was to be the showcase event for Mr Mandela’s unifying agenda in South Africa. One of the defining sporting images of the century was to follow in the final when, after South Africa’s 15-12 extra-

Sportswoman of the Year: Christine Ohuruogu wins award ATHLETE Christine Ohuruogu has been named Sunday Times & Sky Sports Sportswoman of the Year for 2013. The 400m runner became the first British woman to win two Athletics World Championship crowns when she clinched gold in Moscow in August. “It’s such a tough category,” said Ohuruogu. “It’s great we have women who are excelling. I am genuinely shocked but I’m really happy.” Cyclist Becky James was given the Young Sportswoman of the Year award. Ohuruogu beat James, dressage rider Charlotte Dujardin, cricketer Heather Knight, skeleton bobsledder Shelley Rudman and triathlete Non Stanford to the top award in London. The 29-year-old later confirmed she intends to compete at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. “I think we’ll go to Rio, that’s the plan,” Ohuruogu

The 400m runner Christine Ohuruogu became the first British woman to win two Athletics World Championship crowns when she clinched gold in Moscow in August.

said. “Obviously, I have to stay injury free. I love what I do. Me and my coach have a great time training and 400m right now is a great event to be in and we have great talent coming through.” Welsh cyclist James won four medals in five days at the UCI track world championships in Minsk in

February. The England netball side won Team of the Year after losing just one Test match in 2013, while Amy Marren, 15, was named Disability Sports Person of the Year after winning six medals at the IPC World Swimming Championship in August. (BBC)

Nelson Mandela hands the 1995 Rugby World Cup trophy to South Africa captain Francois Pienaar.

time victory against favourites New Zealand, Springboks captain Francois Pienaar was handed the trophy by Mr Mandela. In that moment, racially divided South Africa came together in a way unimaginable during the 27 years the Nobel Peace Prize winner was incarcerated for his actions in the fight against apartheid. South Africa rugby tweeted: “Rest in Peace Nelson

Mandela. We will never forget the role you played in our country, in our sport, and for that we are eternally grateful.” Joost van der Westhuizen, who played in the 1995 World Cup final, said on Twitter: “A sad day for our country. Rest in Peace Madiba. Condolences to his family and friends.” Former captain of the South Africa football team and Everton midfielder Steven Pienaar, 31, also paid tribute,

tweeting: “In tears, the Father Of the Great Nation has passed on. R.I.P TATA MADIBA.” South Africa rugby union wing Bryan Habana, 30, who was part of his country’s triumphant side that beat England in the 2007 Rugby World Cup final, tweeted: “R.I.P Tata Madiba. Thank you for the inspiration and hope. May your legacy live on forever. #forevergrateful #proudlySouthAfrican.”

Sports Interational

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013

Match-fixing allegations rock New Zealand cricket NEW Zealand sport has been rocked by allegations that three former national cricketers -- including highprofile all-rounder Chris Cairns -are under investigation for alleged match-fixing, according to reports. The International Cricket Council (ICC), the game’s governing body, said in a statement that a small number of former New Zealand representatives were under investigation by the anti-corruption unit for alleged involvement in “fixing activity in historic cricket matches.” It did not identify those under investigation, but after a New Zealand newspaper named those alleged to be implicated, two of the players made statements confirming their involvement in the investigation. “We need to let the investigation by the ICC run its course,” said Cairns in a statement to Fairfax Media. Cairns, who played his last game for New Zealand in 2006, had been acting as a television commentator for New Zealand’s test match against the West Indies in Dunedin, but left the coverage amid the controversy. Former test batsman Lou Vincent also confirmed he was involved. “I wish to let everyone know that I am cooperating with an ongoing ICC anti-corruption investigation that has been made public today,”

Sebastian Vettel, who is favourite for his fifth consecutive title, will start the season in Melbourne, Australia next March.

NJ, Mexico and SK axed from Formula One calendar New Zealand cricket great Chris Cairns talks to reporters in Auckland after being implicated in match-fixing allegations.

said Vincent, a batsman who played his last game for New Zealand in 2007. “This investigation is bound by a number of rules and regulations that mean I am unable to make any further public comment. I will personally talk to the public when I am able to.” Another former player claimed in media reports to be the third individual involved made no public comment. New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White told reporters the organisation had been aware of this investigation for a number of months and was “shocked and surprised by the allegations.”

“We support the ICC’s investigation as corruption has no place in our sport. No current New Zealand players are being investigated. No games played in New Zealand are being investigated. Lastly, no matches under New Zealand Cricket’s jurisdiction are being investigated.” New Zealand Prime Minister John Key told reporters it would be “very, very serious’’ if the allegations were proven. “New Zealand is a country that sees itself as a very above board, honest place both to do business and to play sport, so it would be deeply concerning if this was factually correct.”

THE 2014 Formula One calendar has been revealed -- and there’s no space for New Jersey, Mexico or South Korea. All three Grands Prix have been axed despite being listed on the provisional calendar in September. It is the second time that the New Jersey race has been postponed, while Mexico is expected to host its first race since 1992 in two years’ time. The new set up will see the return of F1 in Austria for the first time in 12 years, while Russia will welcome the sport’s top stars to Sochi in October. The 2014 season starts in Melbourne, Australia on 16 March and ends in Abu Dhabi on 23 November.

New Jersey has encountered financial and logistical problems since it was proposed in 2012 but race organiser Leo Hindery is confident it will go ahead. “Our entire management team and our supporters in New Jersey, New York and throughout the Formula One community obviously want to see the inaugural Grand Prix of America at Port Imperial take place as soon as possible,” Hindery said in a statement. “Bringing a world-class race to the world’s largest media market is a huge undertaking that has required balancing construction of our road course, without tapping any public money, with the Sport’s own timing demands.”

Vonn returns from knee injury in World Cup training run US Olympic champion Lindsey Vonn came through her first Alpine World Cup training run of the season unscathed as she bids to prove her fitness for the Sochi Winter Olympics in February. Vonn, 29, recently reinjured ligaments in the same knee that was rebuilt following a crash in the World Championships in February and announced earlier this month that she would delay any further surgery. The skier finished a conservative 22nd in the training run at Lake Louise, USA, an event she has won 14 times. “My knee feels good. It feels stable,” said Vonn. “It was my first training run - my first real race situation since February - so it’s been a long time and I was of course a little bit nervous.” “I’m just going to play it by ear tomorrow and make a decision on the race. I’m just trying to stay focused and get my confidence back.” A second training run is scheduled for Thursday, following which Vonn

Dereck Chisora defended his WBO International title and took the vacant WBA International belt with the win.

Chisora stops Czech fighter Ondrej Pala in third round Many were worried that Lindsey Vonn might have missed the next February’s Winter Olympic Games.

and US Ski Team medical staff and coaches will decide on a potential start in Friday’s downhill. “Lindsey skied strong and had a good training run without taking any big risks, which was the strategy,” said head women’s coach Alex Hoedlmoser. “We’ll continue to evaluate her

situation with her before making a final decision for Friday.” There are back-to-back downhills on Friday and Saturday. The Sochi Winter Olympics begin on 7 February 2014 and would be Vonn’s fourth Games - having made her debut as a 17-year-old in Salt Lake City, 2002. (BBC)

BRITON Dereck Chisora beat Ondrej Pala with a third-round stoppage at the Copper Box in London. The referee stepped in after Chisora forced his Czech opponent to turn his back with a succession of fierce blows. The victory, Chisora’s fourth stoppage of the year, ensured he defended his WBO International title and took the vacant WBA International belt. “Fair play to the guy - he hit me with some good shots, but he didn’t hurt me,” said Chisora. “I want a big opponent, someone

who can test me, and that’s what we’re pushing for now. “It’s all about getting into the right position to fight for those titles. I’ve just got to keep fighting and keep winning.” Pala, 29, was not expected to cause his 29-year-old opponent many problems, but rocked Chisora with a heavy left hand in the second round. The Briton took a moment to recover, but responded well in the third to land some heavy shots to head and body which took their toll on Pala, who could not respond. (BBC)

December 7 - 13, 2013

Sports Interational

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

FIFA asks Brazilians to back the 2014 World Cup amid delays

The 29-year-old has established himself as Wales’s first choice hooker.

Hibbard set to join Welsh exodus RICHARD Hibbard looks set to join Welsh rugby’s player exodus by leaving Ospreys in the summer of 2014, a year before his contract ends. The Wales and British and Irish Lions hooker has been linked with Gloucester. The 29-year-old signed a fiveyear deal in 2010 and has since established himself as Wales’ firstchoice hooker. Hibbard will join Wales lock Ian Evans (Toulon) and Scarlets centre Jonathan Davies (Clermont Auvergne) and a host of Test stars in exile next season. French Top 14 clubs also employ flanker Dan Lydiate, centre Jamie Roberts and scrum-half Mike Phillips (all at Racing Metro) while versatile back James Hook and lock Luke Charteris are at Perpignan, wing Aled Brew remains at Biarritz and

full-back Lee Byrne is at Clermont Auvergne. In England’s Premiership, Wales wing George North plays for Northampton, props Paul James and Rhys Gill are at Bath and Saracens respectively, and Exeter have another Wales prop in Craig Mitchell and wing Tom James. Hibbard, who has 26 Wales and three Lions caps, would join a Gloucester squad that includes Wales scrum-half Tavis Knoyle, a player currently out of Wales favour, as are the Bath pair of scrum-half Martyn Roberts and centre Gavin Henson. Two more Ospreys forwards who are also Lions and Wales caps - lock Alun Wyn Jones and prop Adam Jones - are out of contract at the end of the 2013-14 season and are also the subject of speculation over their futures.

Fifa general secretary Jerome Valcke has appealed to Brazilians to support next summer’s World Cup, saying it would be the “wrong time” to protest. Football’s governing body is concerned civil dissent over the cost of the tournament could overshadow the event. “It is a right to demonstrate,” said Valcke. “For them, it’s the best time. For me, it’s the wrong time.” He also told the BBC that delays in construction had made preparations for the tournament harder than expected. He said: “[It’s] the wrong time [to protest] because it is a time where Brazil should enjoy a unique time, a time they have not enjoyed since 1950. “A time where they have a national team who won the Confederations Cup - a team that is the potential winner of the World Cup 2014. “So there should be support from all Brazil for the organisation of the World Cup. “We are not asking [them] to support Fifa, we are asking [them] to support the World Cup. We are asking [them] to support an event they won five times already and they dream to win for the first time at home.” Many of the protesters say the event is a waste of money at a time when there is a squeeze on living costs in Brazil. Some believe the public investment in the World Cup - almost

Brazil will have to get its act together to get a smooth 2014 Football World Cup.

£8bn - should have been spent on schools, hospitals and transport. Brazil’s three-time World Cup winner Pele supported Valcke’s call for calm next year, saying: “It is nothing against the football, nothing against the players. This is a political problem but I think this is a good opportunity. “Brazil has three very important events here - the Confederations Cup, the World Cup and the Olympic Games. “I think the people should be very quiet and pay attention because this is a great moment for the country. It makes good publicity, investment, tourism. I think we have to be careful

because it’s a big opportunity.” Protests are not Fifa’s only concern. There are also serious doubts about the stadiums. On Tuesday, Fifa confirmed that three of the hosts - Curitiba, Cuiaba and Sao Paulo - would miss their completion deadline of the end of December. There are also serious doubts over a fourth, Manaus. Brazilian sports minister Aldo Rebelo claimed on Wednesday that all the stadiums would be handed over in January. But in his interview with the BBC, Valcke seemed to contradict him, saying two of the four may not be finished until March. (BBC)

Child to captain Scotland in Glasgow

Gennaro Gattuso said he is not pro-female in football.

Gattuso says there is no place for women in football FORMER AC Milan and Rangers midfielder Gennaro Gattuso says he cannot see a place for women in football. Milan chief executive Adriano Galliani agreed last week to share his role with Barbara Berlusconi, daughter of club president Silvio. “For someone like Galliani there should be more respect,” Reuters reported Gattuso as

telling Italy’s Radio Radio. “I can’t really see women in football. I don’t like to say it but that’s how it is.” Gattuso spent 13 years with Milan, winning two Champions Leagues, two Serie A titles and the Coppa Italia. He moved into management but has been sacked by Swiss club FC Sion and Palermo in 2013. (BBC)

WORLD 4x400m relay bronze medallist Eilidh Child is to captain the first-ever Scottish team at January’s British Athletics International Match. A Scottish team will be making its debut in the first major event in Glasgow in 2014 ahead of the Commonwealth Games. They will compete against Great Britain & Northern Ireland, USA and a Commonwealth select. “I’m really honoured to be named captain,” said Child. “It was a complete surprise to me. The full Scottish team has yet to be announced, but Child, who will run in the 400m, will be joined by European Under-23 1500m bronze medallist Laura Muir, who will line up in the 800m. Chris O’Hare will return from the United States to compete in the 1500m, while Jamie Bowie will run in the 400m. Guy Learmonth will take to the track in the rarely run 600m with the aim of breaking the Scottish record

Sprinter Eilidh Child will captain the first-ever Scottish team at January’s British Athletics International Match.

set by David Jenkins 40 years ago. For the first time in the match’s 23-year history para-athletes will take part and Scotland’s Libby Clegg and Stef Reid will compete at the Emirates Arena. Clegg will line up alongside guide

runner Mikail Huggins in the T12 60m after winning double silver at the IPC World Championships, while Reid will compete in the F44 long jump with the aim of replicating the form that led to a silver medal at last year’s Olympics in London. (BBC)

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PABA Night League:

Flyers rebound with 22-point win – Germain hits huge double-double in Police’s victory THE Five Cays Flyers rebounded from an opening loss to defending champions, the GT Stallions, to whip the Steelers by 22 points when action in the new season of the Provo Amateur Basketball Association (PABA) Night League continued at the Gus Lightbourne Sports Complex court recently. Also rebounding were the Police Badgers who recorded a four-point win, thanks to a huge double-double from Sandro Germain. The Flyers’ three-point loss in week-one of the 2013-2014 league was all but erased from the minds of the 2011-2012 champions, after Jake Been and Cameron Henry combined for 32 points and 13 boards in the 7250 point win. Been was the aggressor. He dropped 21 points, eight rebounds, three assists and three steals while Henry added 11 points and five boards. For the Steelers R. Forbes scored 21 points and nine rebounds while L. Lall added six points and six boards.

Sandro Germain had a huge double-double for the Police Badgers.

South Caicos Harbour Boys made it 2-0 when they defeated the Predators 50-43. Jonathan Paul led the attack with 12 points, six boards, four assists and three steals while A. Parker added nine points and six rebounds. The Predators were led by Roger Martinez with 17 points and four steals while Troy Saunders made a double-double (10 points and 11 rebounds) to go with six steals and

two blocks. The Badgers, who lost to the Harbour Boys in week one, were again led by Germain who powered his way to 25 points and 18 boards to go with two steals in the Lawmen’s 57-53 victory over the J&B Collectors. Dwain Hamilton added nine points and eight boards for the winners. For the Collectors Mervin Forbes led the attack with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Also making an impact in the losing cause was Derek Hanna, who scored 17 points, nine rebounds and three steals. North Caicos Spartans defeated the TCI Supersonics 71-62. Domanique Missick had 17 points, 10 boards and three steals for the winners while Dondre Taylor added 13 points, four rebounds and three assists. Johan Mimes scored a game high 27 points to go with eight boards and three assists for the Supersonics while Daniel Menek added 13 points, six boards, five steals and two blocks.

December 7 - 13, 2013

Provo Hockey League:

Panthers extend unbeaten streak THE Grace Bay Car Rentals and Sales Panthers have extended their unbeaten streak in the Provo Hockey League (PHL) with a 7-3 win over the Scotiabank Sharks. Darius Coackley Jr. with two goals and two assists, Matthew Harnett with two goals and one assist and Gabriel Diotte-Joly with two goals were the aggressors for the winners while for the Sharks Cole Nickson scored all three goals. In the other Midget Division clash last Saturday the Twa Marcelin Wolf Pirates got past the BCQS Flames in a low scoring game (3-2). Dockarick Barrett scored two times for the winners while Liam Delancy added a goal and an assist. Gregory Lewis scored twice for the Flames. MIXED FORTUNES The Hurricanes had mixed fortunes when the Bantam Division continued. Against the Coco Bistro Lightning, they suffered a 10-5 loss, after Carson Greatrex and Sebastian Turbyfield combined for eight goals and four assists. Greatrex scored five goals and

one assist, while Turbyfield added three goals and a similar amount of assists. For the Hurricanes Dylan Brubaker led the attack with three goals. The Hurricanes had their moment of glory when they whipped the Gracebay Resorts Surge 7-2. Orrin Campbell, who was held to one goal in the other game, scored four while Joe Canham added two and Jack Small three assists. In the Mini Division the Gansevoort Gators returned to their winning ways with a 6-2 win over the Saunders and Company Owls. Ronin Maclaren led the attack with five goals, while Jake Whent added a goal and an assist; for the Owls Aiden Paisley and Lucas Coles (also one assist) scored one goal each. In the other Mini Division clash the Sailrock Lobsters edged past the 4G Comets 7-6. Khalid Fulford led the Lobsters with five goals while Sam Connolly and Vijay Kallecharen added one each. For the Comets Gabriel Osmond scored five while Michael Saunders finished with a goal and an assist.

Josh for Sports

The one and only TCI prophetic sports analyst strikes again – Focus on Kivarno Handfield: future world champion ALL my life I’ve been recognising national, regional, international, world and Olympic champions. Not once have I missed. I’ve been predicting through scientific analysis persons who would foot that bill. I’ve created athletes who eventually broke world records in athletics. I’ve coached numerous champions in the above listed categories. MY EXPLOITS At the age of 16 I broke the world’s record (unofficially) in the triple jump during the house sports at Munro College in 1967 with a jump of 49’ 7”. That jump up to this day far surpasses the so-called national record of this country. At that time the world’s record of 55’ 6” was held by Josef Smidth of Poland. He must have been at least 27-years-old then. At age 18, I jumped 51’ 3 ¼” and was ranked #2 in all universities in the USA (about 2000 athletes)— population of about 203 million then. DES GARDINER In 1972, I created a youth track club in Nassau called “The World Totters Track Club,” the ages ranged from 10-14 years old. In a time trial, my brother at 10-years-old unofficially broke the

By Joshua Gardiner world’s record for that age running against my ninth graders at CI Gibson Junior High. He lapped everybody; running a time of five minutes 27 seconds. We were training for the Florida Relays slated for Easter of 1972. I was 21-years-old and training for the Olympics in Munich, Germany. Unfortunately, my father stopped him from running because I got married against his wishes. At that same time I coached a young girl, Shonell Ferguson in the long jump and sprints. She was 12-years-old and had won the junior division of the High school sports with a jump of 16’4”, plus she won the 50M and was second in the shot put. Shonell went on to place sixth in the Olympics in the long jump years later. She won numerous international competitions. Her best long jump was 22’11”. Eventually she was awarded a MBE by her majesty, Queen Elizabeth

for the pride and recognition she brought to the British Commonwealth throughout the world.

team. The coach was none other than my first cousin, Rupert Gardiner, an original Flyer since age 16.

OLYMPIC CHAMPIONS From the club that I created at age 23 for Dr. Norman Gay: “The Bain Town Flyers” came the Bahamas’ first Olympic medal in history, in the person of Frank Rutherford—a bronze in Barcelona, Spain. I did not personally coach Rutherford, but I was responsible for giving him a club that propelled him to the heights that he attained.

OTHERS I coached other international champions such as Stephen Hannah, Norbert Elliot and Rudy Levarity among others. I secured a scholarship for Stephen Wray from the Pioneers Track Club, who went on to high jump 7’7” to secure silver medal for the Bahamas at the Commonwealth Games in Australia. For me to complete this list, it would take a book.

PAULINE DAVIS AND ELDECE CLARKE-LEWIS In 1980 when I returned to Nassau from Canada, the Flyers’ president was Neville Wisdom. I naturally reattached myself to my brain-child. Neville coached Pauline. I was chosen to coach the Bahamas’ distance runners who were competing in the CAC Junior Championships in Nassau against Cuba, Mexico and all of the Caribbean and Central America. Pauline won the U-17 100, just barely missing the world’s record by 0.01 hundredth of a second. She ran 11.01s. The Bahamas won that championship.

KIVARNO HANDFIELD The first time I saw Kivarno was last year at the Panthers’ Track Club meet at the National Stadium where he participated in the high jump, (the Panthers is the only track club that has its meet sanctioned by the IAAF as an official event where achievements are recognised and could be counted for qualification standards towards international competitions). At that meet, with no coach, 18 year-old Kivarno high jumped 6” 11 ½”. He had only been training for less than one year. Nobody paid him any attention after that meet. In late October last year, I saw Kivarno and was shocked that nobody tried to get him a track scholarship to attend university in the USA to further his education/career.

OLYMPIC GOLD Eventually Pauline and company won Olympic gold in the 4X100M relay in Australia. Eldece Clarke-Lewis, also an original Flyer was a member of that

ONE PHONE CALL Being, who I am, with my love for my

country, I made one phone call and immediately got him a scholarship at the University of Tennessee for four years at a value of US$100,000. However persons were jealous and discouraged him from taking the scholarship. WHAT’S FOR YOU THE FLOODS CAN’T WASH AWAY At this moment, Kivarno has a full ride at Lincoln University in St. Louis Missouri, where he has already jumped (in practice) 7’5”. At this point in time, he has the best jump in all universities in the USA. I predict that come next year at the Commonwealth Games Kivarno will medal. His most challenging competition will come from the Bahamas. Finally I predict that Kivarno will break the world’s high jump record within two years. I also expect him to win the gold medal in Brazil at the 2016 Olympics. He may have to jump for Britain. It does not matter. THE SHARKS ARE OUT There are several companies who are behind Kivarno to sign with them (Nike and others). CHIP OFF THE OLD BLOCK Kivarno’s grandfather was the best sprinter in Jamaica (Hon Dan Malcolm). Go Kivarno go. Love you, Josh

December 7 - 13, 2013

Sports National

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Handfield eyes national record – Jumping 2.23M in practice FORMER Majorie Basden High School athlete Kivarno Handfield has significantly increased his high jump distance and aims to take the national record whenever he competes in an official meet. The TCI born, whose personal best in competition is 2.10M recently jumped 2.23M in practice, which is more than the current national record--that of 2.20M held by Domanique Missick (2012). “I’m really excited to chasing that record (national). I’ve always wanted to put my name in the record books-- that’s really my

motivation,” Handfield told the Weekly News. The current Lincoln University (Missouri) Health and Wellness major, said that he is trying to “stay healthy” and is focused. He admitted that his performance has improved because of the “intense” training at the university. “We train five days a week in three weight rooms. We do plyometrics and resistance training containing a lot of pulling slides of weights and sprints; we run 100M and 50M and hills etc.”

Kivarno Handfield is confident that he can break the national high jump record.

The 20-year-old who is also a respectable basketball player, having dominated at the school

level, aims to jump 2.30M next year. He is hoping to be in peak form

for the Commonwealth Games in Glasglow, Scotland July-August 2014.

Miller Simons O’Sullivan Inter-School Rugby Tournament:

Enid Capron and Provo Primary win titles ENID Capron defended their U-12 title while Provo Primary defeated last year’s U-9 champions Ashcroft School in the final of that age division when the 2013 Miller Simons O’Sullivan TCIRFU Primary Inter-Schools’ Rugby Tournament concluded at the Meridian Field last Saturday. Over 120 primary school children from six schools competed in the

event which started as a round robin tournament to get the rankings to the quarter final stage. The U-12 division proved to be extremely exciting with Enid Capron beating Ashcroft School in a thrilling game. The game was tied at the end of regulation and went into overtime to decide the winner. The tournament was the finale to the Primary Schools Programme that

the Rugby Development Officer – Niall Neville has been delivering to the schools throughout October and November. Speaking about the tournament Neville said: “It has been a really successful day here. Working with

the children in the schools has been a great experience and seeing them showing their skills out there today has been brilliant. There are certainly some great rugby players in the making out there today and we hope they will continue with their efforts.”

High School Basketball Tournament set for next week THE 2013 High School Basketball Tournament, the ultimate rivalry, is billed for December 11-13 at the Gus Lightbourne Sports Complex. Ten schools will battle for the title, including multiple time champions the Majorie Basden Knights who forfeited the championship game last year. In the opening fixtures Holy Family will tackle TCI Middle School at 11:30h on day-one, while Wesley Methodist will challenge British West Indies Collegiate at 13:00h followed by Maranatha Academy against the

TCIPS Comprehensive at 14:30h. Game two losers will compete against the game three losers in the evening session at 17:30h before defending champions Clement Howell Eagles reach the winner of game two at 19:00. On Thursday HJ Robinson will challenge Raymond Gardiner at 9:30h before the Knights play the winner of game one at 10:30h. The opening ceremony is billed for Thursday afternoon at 17:00h and the top teams will battle it out for the spoils on Friday. Admission is $5 for students and $7 for adults.

The winning U-12 team Enid Capron.

Lauren Darbo from Provo Primary was voted as the U-9 Player of the Day while Wayne Der Sin from Enid Capron took the U-12 title. Ashcroft School took the senior fair play award while Oseta Jolly took the junior award.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013

Why I am a Rotarian Why am I a Rotarian? The Rotary Club of Providenciales is a part of a worldwide network of Rotary Clubs that aims to serve their community and those in need throughout the world. I take pride in being a member of this noble group of volunteers. Through the projects that we undertake I am able to learn more about my local community and about regional and international issues. As a member of the Rotary Club I am able to not only build friendships but also enrich my professional and personal knowledge and meet other business leaders in the community. Participation in Club activities helps to me to appreciate the value of teamwork and helps me to enhance my leadership, time management and organization skills. The greatest benefit would have to be the opportunity to make a difference; to do something for someone else and have the sense of selfâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;fulfilment that comes in the process. Being a Rotarian It is richly rewarding. By: Trevor Musgrove

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December 7 - 13, 2013

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

December 7 - 13, 2013