Turks and Caicos Weekly News

Weekly News Food prices record high Volume 25 | No. 06 | February 12 - 18, 2011

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Mixed feelings over $260m rescue

POLITICAL leaders are divided in their reaction to the forthcoming $260m rescue package to help lift the TCI out of the red.

PAGE  4

Lawsuit launched

against Third Turtle

CIVIL proceedings have been launched against corruptionaccused developers behind one of the TCI’s most controversial resort schemes.

PAGE  7

‘A giant of a man’

FRIENDS, family and churchgoers are all in mourning this week after the death of the beloved Bishop Michael Hartley Eldon.

PAGE  12

GLOBAL food prices have soared to record high levels PAGE  5 putting pressure on the purses of cash-strapped Islanders.

Six Dominican stowaways rescued at sea PAGE 

5

The men were weak and had to be lifted to the ambulance

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 12 - 18, 2011

February 12 - 18, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 12 - 18, 2011

NATIONAL

Guest Editorial

(Reprinted in part from the Feb 8 edition of the Nassau Guardian)

Democracy, independence and complacency THE IMAGES and news stories that have dominated the international news media for the past week or so in Egypt are a telling story on the importance of the basic concept of democracy, a concept that is spoken about often, but a concept often not fully appreciated. The benefits that are gained from a properly functioning democracy are too often taken for granted.

The beauty of a democracy is that we, the people, get to elect the leaders of our own choosing through a formal process of narrowing down the candidates and casting a vote. Another key aspect of that electoral process is that there is a time frame in which those elections must come around again.

If we the people are not happy with our leaders, we have the opportunity to elect a new leader, thus holding our leaders to a certain degree of accountability.

The equation is not complicated: Please the people or get voted out of office. The common demands from the people are basic: Provide security (from outside forces and crime at home), infrastructure, jobs, and a growing economy. In other words, provide results.

A true democracy also has a time frame in which there is change. In The Bahamas, the government must have an election every five years. In the United States, it is every two years (for House representatives and senators) and four years for the president. The ability to call for change on a consistent basis allows for stability. In Egypt, there is no democracy. President Hosni Mubarak has been in power for 29 years. The people are now rioting in the streets and calling for change.

Suppressing the voice of the masses acknowledges the ineptitude of a leader to provide for his people while hiding behind the shield of his power. We must accept that rallies and protests are part of many democracies. The rallies against the Vietnam War in the United States or those here in The Bahamas against the Bahamas Telecommunications Company (BTC) sale are examples. But these generally don’t call for ousting a leader, just a change in the policy position currently held by the government in power.

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

PDM chief Doug Parnell said the loan would help pull the Islands out of “uncertainty”.

The Government is paying “lip service to the concept of transparency”, says PNP leader Clayton Greene.

Mixed feelings over $260m rescue

By Gemma Handy

POLITICAL leaders are divided in their reaction to the forthcoming $260m rescue package to help lift the TCI out of the red.

The cash – from commercial lenders – is to be loaned for up to five years to enable the country to achieve a fiscal surplus by March 2013.

But while some have welcomed the monetary injection, others have expressed caution over the mammoth hike in national debt – and dearth of details relating to interest.

The British Parliament has until next Thursday to formally sanction the loan guarantee.

Governor Gordon Wetherell described the move as a “vital step” to restore financial stability and balance the budget.

“This guarantee would form an important step in our financial plan and will help the achievement of key milestones that need to be reached before a date for elections can be set.”

He said the main risk would be the TCI Government’s failure to make capital and interest repayments.

The loan guarantee will not be provided until London is satisfied that plans are in place to raise revenue, cut costs and better manage public finances.

PDM chiefs, who have long called for a rescue package, said the money was a “great and bold step” towards pulling the Islands out of “uncertainty”.

They said it was essential the interim administration meet its obligations for civil service salaries, student scholarships and unpaid bills.

And to repair vital infrastructure such as the causeway, Millennium Highway, South Caicos Airport terminal and fire-ravaged Ona Glinton Primary School.

Party leader Douglas Parnell said: “Let us press on toward the mark of restoring our country’s solid

standing in the region by rebuilding confidence in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

“One of the ways we can do this is by speaking positively and insisting that our God given right to grow and prosper and aspire to build a better tomorrow for our children is never forgotten by those in authority.”

He added: “We further request that the true state of the financial condition of the Government over the past years be made public for all to see how matters were handled, so that the truth about what this interim administration inherited can be made known.”

PNP leader Clayton Greene displayed mixed sentiments.

“The people of these Islands have for a considerable time called on the British Government to provide some form of economic stimulus.

“My party has been clear in its call for urgent action to stimulate the private sector through borrowing and the promotion and encouragement of inward investment as the only way to stabilise this economy.”

But he said the Governor’s statement last week failed to properly inform Islanders of the overall impact on the economy.

“The Governor should tell us in real terms how much of the $260m will be used to repay outstanding debts and exactly which debts these are.

“It is being said that $175m is needed to pay off outstanding debts.

We fully expect that approximately $44m of this will be used to pay back the short term financing previously received from the British Government because the Governor in his statement referred specifically to that debt.

“However we want to know what portion will be allocated to the payment of pensions and gratuities for public servants that are already in retirement but have yet to receive

their pensions or gratuity?”

He accused the interim Government of paying “lip service to the concept of transparency”.

“They should tell us exactly how much of the $175m will be paid directly into accounts outside of the Turks and Caicos Islands and therefore have no impact on the local economy.

“Secondly the Governor should identify specifically the further projected deficits to which he refers.”

Mr Greene called on Mr Wetherell to release details of plans to service the debt.

“If the plans are to impose direct taxation and increase the tax burden generally…then we should know that now.

“The cost of this level of debt will almost certainly be a call by the administration for direct taxation. At five per cent per annum the monthly repayments will be just short of $5m.

Where do we find that when the monthly revenues are only around $9m?”

The party leader and attorney expressed concern about potential civil service job cuts and reductions in infrastructure spending.

He said the PNP was unable to welcome the prospect of such additional debt “when no attempt has been made to say to the people how assuming that level of debt is in their medium and long term interest”.

He added: “I call on the people of these Islands to be vigilant and to carry at all times a healthy dose of scepticism, for all is not well in the corridors of Waterloo.”

News of a fiscal aid package, arranged by the UK, along with short-term lending was first released in July.

In December British Ministers said the TCI’s financial picture represented “an unacceptable collapse in fiscal governance” which needed to be urgently addressed.

February 12 - 18, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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NATIONAL

Food prices hit record high

By Gemma Handy

GLOBAL food prices have soared to record high levels putting pressure on the purses of cash-strapped Islanders.

And with further substantial hikes predicted for 2011, there’s little sign of relief ahead.

Rice, sugar, bread and cereal products have been the worst affected in recent weeks, while dairy goods, meat and cooking oils are also set for a surge.

Prices rose for the seventh consecutive month in January to their highest levels since the UN’s Food Price Index was launched in 1990. Rates were up 3.4 per cent on December.

Shrinking supplies of key ingredients such as wheat and maize, along with increasing demand for corn-based ethanol for vehicle fuel, are among the chief causes.

The squeeze on the wallet is aggravated further by spiralling fuel costs and the ongoing effects of the global recession.

Meanwhile, skyrocketing American Airlines fares to Miami are putting the brakes on other bargainhunting opportunities.

IGA’s retail general manager Ken Burns told the Weekly News wholesale prices were predicted to increase by another three to five per cent this year.

And the added cost to the TCI

consumer is higher still due to the impact on transportation and duty charges.

“We have already two increases in rice in the last couple of months and sugar and bread have gone up twice too,” Mr Burns said.

“Cereal is going up seven per cent in wholesale price. When grain goes up that will be pushed to dairy products because it costs more to feed the animals that produce those and then we will see higher beef and pork prices too.

“The price of oilseed is also rising quickly. That will force higher pricing on cooking oils, shortening and any by-products.”

With up to 90 per cent of many store’s items imported directly from the US, the TCI is a natural victim to factors affecting the Americas.

Mr Burns said floods in Argentina, a big exporter of meat and sugar, had depleted supplies, putting pressure on US stocks.

“We do buy products from the UK, Jamaica, Peru and the Dominican Republic but the biggest problem is the amount of consistent supply.

“We also buy as much locally as possible. In fact we have offered to purchase every piece of product farmers here can produce that meets our quality standards.

“They have been very cooperative and are here every week with

IGA boss Ken Burns is calling for the Government to do more to help local farmers.

something, whether it’s ochre or tomatoes.

“But unfortunately they can’t supply our needs fully because their crops are not big enough. We have had talks with the Government about getting more locally grown products.”

While last year’s changes in customs tariffs reduced costs slightly on essential items, many Islanders felt the cuts were not proportionately passed to the customer.

“There’s a perception that we have high prices,” Mr Burns said, “and our first question is, give us the specifics.

“You won’t buy the same product

at the same retail price anywhere.

Some may be higher but others are lower.

“You also have to look at the quality because there’s a difference.

For example, we buy only Angus red meat. We could buy cheaper meat but we prefer quality.”

So what can consumers do to ease the pressure?

“Be a smart shopper, make a list and only buy what’s on that list,” Mr Burns said.

Store-own brands are also a good save to save cash, he continued.

“And watch out for special offers.

“We will continually do our part to see the lowest prices possible, such as buying direct instead of going through a third party.

“Plus, whenever we get deals from our suppliers we pass them on to our customers.”

Mr Burns said while dropping certain duty rates was a “step in the right direction”, he felt the Government could be doing more.

“Getting the economy growing again and getting people back to work would help.”

Price increases have prompted renewed calls for price controls.

Mr Burns added: “I have dealt with price controls before. But a company can’t survive without profitability.

We can be forced to put any price on anything but somewhere we still have to make a profit.”

However Mark Hermitt, of Island

WORST AFFECTED • Cereals • Meat • Rice • Sugar • Bread • Dairy • Cooking oils • Margarine • Salad dressing WHY • Reserves of wheat and maize have shrunk • Increasing demand for cornbased ethanol for vehicle fuel • Argentina floods put pressure on US meat and sugar supplies • Higher gas prices increases transportation costs WHAT CAN WE DO • Buy store own brands • Make a list and stick to it • Look out for special deals • Shop around for best prices • Grow your own fruit and veg

Pride supermarket, said August’s duty cuts should have seen significant decreases in overall grocery costs.

“Prices should not be going through the roof. If people shop at Island Pride, they will see we have not put up our prices.”

Six Dominican stowaways rescued at sea

By Samantha Dash-Rigby

A TOTAL of six men who secretly boarded a vessel from Barahona, a city in the southwest of the Dominican Republic, and survived five days with very little food and water were discovered and rescued on Wednesday.

The men, all in their 20s, were taken to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre emergency department where they were admitted and treated.

The Weekly News learnt that while out at sea with no fresh drinking water, the stowaways became desperate and tried to drink the seawater which made them vomit.

When they were discovered, they were suffering from dehydration and one of them sustained injuries from blocks that had fallen on him during the voyage.

According to Peter Quelch, a police officer with the marine branch, the captain said before they left dock, they carried a thorough search of the vessel and there were no stowaways onboard.

They set sail on a tug pulling a barge laden with construction blocks bound for Providenciales.

Five days into the journey about 35 miles from Providenciales, around 11.30am the crew discovered the stowaways on the barge.

They phoned the TCI police and made a report.

The captain said that during the voyage he did not see any signs of a boat approaching on radar.

The police boat intercepted the tug at 3.15pm about eight miles from Providenciales, collected and ferried the dehydrated men to shore and handed them over to SPICE. When questioned, the stowaways

SPICE and Marine officers worked feverishly to get the dehydrated and injured men to the hospital.

revealed that they did not have any idea that they were heading to Providenciales, instead they thought they were going to St Maarten.

Duty doctor Denise Braithwaite of the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre emergency department released a statement to the media.

“At about 4.30pm on Wednesday, February 9, four male patients, all in their 20s, were admitted to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre emergency department.

“One of the patients was found to be suffering internal injuries and

was treated accordingly. The quartet were suffering dehydration and were treated as such.”

Dr Braithwaite said that in keeping with standard InterHealth Canada practice in such situations, the men were all tested for other conditions and diseases.

“Once hydrated and treated, they were then fed and all discharged back into the care of the Customs department,” the statement ended.

Yesterday, two more stowaways were discovered and taken to the medical facility, an InterHealth

Canada spokesman said.

“At about 3.30pm on Thursday, February 10, two male patients were admitted to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre emergency department.

“It is believed they were Dominican stowaways, found aboard a vessel that had arrived into TCI waters the day before. “ The men were taken to the hospital by ambulance and accompanied by customs officers.

Both complained of minor ailments although neither was considered to be in a serious condition.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 12 - 18, 2011

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

AA equals anger and animosity WE ASKED readers for your thoughts on American Airlines’ ever-increasing air fares to Miami as the next stage of our campaign to encourage the company to lower its rates.

Fares from Provo to Miami appear far higher than rates paid to get to Miami from other Caribbean countries – including those in the east of the region.

There is also a dearth of special discount rates offered to TCI travellers.

A lack of competition – and local objection – has been cited as the cause for skyrocketing prices.

We will also be passing your comments onto the company.

Competition needed

“I’m a native in Providenciales and it concerns me, like many others here, the fare that AA offers us to go right to Florida. Our people for the last few years have been travelling less and also can’t afford to travel with their families.

“I can say that for my family, one will go and shop for the whole family because we can’t afford and it doesn’t make sense paying about $600 a person to go to Miami and then have to shop!

“The fare is ridiculous compared to other Caribbean nations right around us to travel to Florida.

“It’s been like this for a while and we’re just praying that AA will make changes or a much cheaper competition will come in and offer that same service!”

Bad service, empty seats

“I think you have covered it all in your introduction to the issues surrounding AA except you forgot to mention lack of service and professionalism which makes their exorbitant prices even harder to stomach.

“Their planes seem old and their crews, tired and robotic.

“I subscribe to their alerts for ‘special getaways this weekend’. There are never any from or to Provo, just Miami. Why? I have no idea as we seem to be penalised all the way which includes little promotion of here as a destination.

“This seems strange when AA have so many daily flights to TCI. I try not to fly off island now unless necessary.

“The planes used to be full but of late they are half empty. Why not make the seats cheaper to encourage us to travel more?

“Is AA hoping it becomes none viable with high prices so they can pull out gracefully from this route? The only good thing to say about AA is its website which is user friendly and fast.”

Subsidising other routes?

“If the figures you published are current and accurate, it seems pretty obvious that American Airlines is taking huge advantage of the TCI. We raised, what, $250,000 to get them to take a chance on this route, so many years ago?

“Now it is often said that the Miami/TCI route is their most lucrative route. If that is true, we are subsidising their other routes.

That’s something we can no longer afford to do.

“I for one only fly AA when I have enough Air Miles to do so - and that allows me to change my flight dates if I have to, without huge penalties.

“Otherwise it’s WestJet for me, and now Jet Blue.”

Big pockets

“Even a semi-full plane must make a gargantuan profit for this greedy corporation!”

Travel now a luxury

“The TCI has been victims of American Airlines for countless years. I have often asked why it costs so much to travel such a short distance, when persons using the same carrier, travelling a greater distance more often than not, pay less.

“I think that American Airlines has adopted the general misconception that Turks and Caicos Islanders are wealthy and not subject to the cruel realities of the global recession.

“I don’t know what can be done but I can tell you I only travel if it is a case of emergency.

“Leisure travel and family vacations have become a pipe dream. Thanks American!”

Landing fee exemption?

“A lack of competition and local objection are indeed the main reasons for the everincreasing airfare.

“However, no matter how much we object,

the competition problem won’t be easily solved because AA apparently pays no landing fee while other airlines would have to.

“There are a few questions that need to be answered if local objection is to do any good: Is AA still exempt from paying landing fees? If so, why?

“According to rumours, the TCIG is paying AA for a percentage of its flight capacity whether or not the flight is full. Is this true?”

Damaging tourism

“American Airlines is playing what one may call a dangerous game. They are killing the goose that laid the golden egg and relying on the good willed nature of TCI residents to simply grumble, complain, make noise but never sue.

“But these unjustified, ever increasing fares to a busy destination, Providenciales, is killing the marketability of the Islands and hurting efforts to expand the tourism sector.

“As taxes increased in the TCI over the last six years, the bite taken by the $.25 per gallon fuel tax, increase in departure taxes, National Health Insurance taxes, a plethora of unexplained taxes, increases in fuel costs, increases in accommodation taxes, environmental taxes etc, the Islands are more un-competitive to do business in for resorts.

“Our competition in the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Eastern Caribbean are keenly lowering costs, training their people, whilst American Airlines adds to our burdens by unnecessarily increasing fares at a time when flights to other countries are lower.

“This whole package of bad strategy hurts our ability to compete. There is urgent need for competition and the interim Government must always embrace the opportunity for competition in all sectors of the TCI economy.

“Competition makes the best and worst of us better and can only enable a better product offering.

“Consideration must be placed on developing a national tourism policy to improve all product offerings by way of competition and AA must agree to lower its artificially high fares as part of that competitive strategy.

“There must be competitive rates offered to TCI customers and the public must object to these high fares.

“Let’s use other airlines to get to the US. Miami is not the only place in the world to shop. Let’s go to Charlotte and Atlanta. Fares are cheaper.

“Competition can never hurt. It can only help. The weak will die and the strong will survive. Let’s compete in the airline sector and see how strong AA is.”

Shop around

“Well, Air Turks & Caicos is undercutting AA prices for flights to Jamaica. I saved $200 dollars going direct, verses through Miami.

Go Air Turks!”

What monopoly

“As much as it pains me (in the wallet) I have to say that this is an area where free market incentives apply.

“I do not like to pay AA’s huge fares to come to Provo via Miami but it is their right to demand the prices they want; it is our right to pay the prices which they demand.

“If we demonstrate our pricing power to use other means, then AA should get the message and decide to come to the market, or the market (Delta, USAir, WestJet) will move away from them.

“AA would not be the first outfit do go down the tubes thinking that they had a monopoly when, in fact, they did not.”

Government intervention

“American Airlines has been overcharging on this lane for years. I can buy a round trip ticket from Toronto to Nairobi for $1,400! Why do I have to pay American over $600 to Miami?

“Nobody can tell me that an 18-hour flight is less expensive to run than a one-hour flight!

“It is due to our Government’s inaction or their inability or unwillingness to negotiate with the company.

“This also brings to mind the question of landing fees. American received huge concessions on landing fees after 9/11. Are they paying full fare for landing fees now?

“If not, we are really being ripped off. How about some “transparency” on that subject?

“We need more carriers in and out of Miami and Fort Lauderdale.”

Big cash cow

“Since I landed here 16 years ago American has had a consistent policy that they are the only game in town and you the public do as they wish - a view allowed by the succession of local governments who gave away the store as their perception was the Islands needed American more than American needed the Islands.

“Look around at the carrier base serving the TCI and ask yourself if this is true?

“American squeezes every last drop of revenue from the MIA route simply because it can – there is no competition and as long as that remains you will have this situation.

“Spirit failed because it had no connections worth making and the local population in the TCI cannot in itself support a route by itself.

“The visitors coming here arrive from the north east corridor of the USA and connections with American remain the only way here.

“The TCI Government needs to seriously sit with American and demand a local fare for the Islands that is available to the residents – after all, the landing rights remain in the Government’s hands.

“Yes AA will threaten to pull out but with this cash cow they have, will they really do that?”

 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

February 12 - 18, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

7

NATIONAL

Eroded Babalua beach was restored using sand dredged from the ocean floor to accommodate the marina.

The ‘condotel’ scheme was to be built on the site of the historic Third Turtle Inn.

Lawsuit launched against Third Turtle Civil proceedings in place following corruption claims

By Gemma Handy CIVIL proceedings have been launched against corruption-accused developers behind one of the TCI’s most controversial resort schemes.

Oceanpoint boss Richard Padgett is accused of bribing former Premier Michael Misick and his deputy Floyd Hall in return for favours relating to the Third Turtle Club.

However Mr Padgett told the Weekly News he believed the world had “gone mad”, while his lawyers have vowed to fight to ensure his side of the story is heard.

The 17-acre project whipped up a rumpus in 2005 after Mr Misick overrode Planning Board height restrictions. The company was given permission to build seven storeys despite this being in excess of national regulations.

A lengthy 18-month row – and a string of court battles – ensued with

neighbouring residents who claimed the scheme would destroy the historic site and adjoining national park.

Developers kowtowed to pressure in May 2007, agreeing to build five storeys instead.

Further contention followed during the Commission of Inquiry when it emerged Mr Padgett had paid Mr Hall a $375,000 ‘finder’s fee’ for the site.

The nine-figure ‘condotel’ scheme finally received detailed planning consent in 2009. But in March 2010, Mr Padgett put the project up for sale announcing he had no more “energy” to continue.

A month later, civil recovery lawyers confirmed the development had been put on ice amid investigations.

A statement released on Tuesday revealed a lawsuit is now officially underway to terminate the development agreement and claim damages, interests and costs

Developer Richard Padgett is accused of bribing former Government Ministers.

due to an alleged series of “corrupt” financial donations to the ousted administration.

The Government claims Mr Padgett “conspired” to secure various benefits and advantages, including discounts and “favourable treatment” relating to planning permission.

A $161,618.92 portion of the $375,000 payment, made in February 2006, is said to have been redirected

by Mr Hall to Mr Misick.

Oceanpoint is also accused of giving a third of the shares in Elite

TCI, valued at $228,672.08, to Mr Hall’s wife Lisa in 2007.

In addition, Mr Padgett is said to have made four payments to the PNP between March 2006 and March 2007, ranging between $75,000 and $125,000. He also apparently loaned Mr Hall $200,000 in August 2007.

The statement added: “These are the latest set of proceedings issued by the civil recovery team since they began their work at the end of 2009.

“Proceedings have now been issued by the civil recovery team in respect of most of the major development projects identified by Sir Robin Auld in the Commission of Inquiry report.

“The civil recovery team continues to be involved in a substantial number of active recoveries and further sets of proceedings are expected to be brought.”

Mr Padgett told the Weekly News on Tuesday: “The world has gone mad.”

His attorney Aziz Rahman said his client had a “long and blameless history as a successful businessman” and was “disappointed” by the

measures being taken.

“We will forcefully protect our client’s interests using all our expertise and experience in these matters and ensure that his side of the story is heard,” he added.

The Third Turtle resort was to be built on the site of the historic Third Turtle Inn, once a favourite haunt for celebrities including legendary supermodel Cheryl Tiegs, baseball great Ted Williams and ‘Jaws’ author Peter Benchley.

It was to comprise private butlerserviced condos and penthouses, fine dining restaurants, designer boutiques, a tennis club, spa and fitness centre and a marina accommodating yachts up to 160ft.

Uber-luxurious brand RockResorts had been poised to manage the resort.

Developers revealed last year that $21m had been ploughed into the scheme during the preceding six years.

Third Turtle was one of four developments frozen in April 2010 amid civil recovery investigations.

Also being probed are Salt Cay, Dellis Cay and Joe Grant Cay.

Fire in Five Cays DISASTER was averted on Tuesday morning when firefighters extinguished a blaze in a Five Cays

property.

The trailer and timber framed residential building contained several

SAVED: Firefighters used a small hose to douse the flames

tanks filled with highly flammable propane.

Press officer Ian Arthur said: “The propane tanks made the property a very dangerous environment to be in and if the fire spread to the propane tanks it would have posed a huge threat to life and property.

“Luckily the volunteer fire department prides itself in a fast response and the fire was tackled in a timely manner and property and persons are safe.”

The Provo fire crew got a call at 8am on Tuesday morning to attend an incident in Five Cays.

Two fire trucks containing seven firefighters arrived within five minutes to find a small fire in the kitchen of the property and the eight occupants outside the building.

They used a small hose to douse the flames which took just 15 minutes, then dampened the roof to make sure

CARAVAN THREAT: The trailer and timber framed building contained several tanks filled with highly flammable propane

that the blaze did not return.

Mr Arthur said the fire was caused by “cooking in the kitchen that got out of hand and ended up burning the wooden wall adjacent and in turn threatened the building”.

He added that damage to the property was limited to smoke and water damage, and there were no reported injuries.

KITCHEN DAMAGE: The fire was caused by “cooking in the kitchen that got out of hand”

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 12 - 18, 2011

NATIONAL

Rosindell “disappointed” by slow progress British MP pledges to fight on for TCI

By Gemma Handy BRITISH MP Andrew Rosindell said he is “disappointed” with the rate of progress in the TCI which he previously described as rife with corruption and crime.

The chairman of the TCI All-Party Parliamentary Group has often been outspoken about the UK’s “neglect” of its territory in recent years.

Following a visit to the country in August, he implored London to face up to its responsibilities, both financially and constitutionally.

In a recent email to update residents on steps made, he welcomed action taken to reduce crime.

“There have been some positive developments; in the past few months we have seen more British police seconded to the Islands and there is finally movement with the coastal radar project, the installation of which is imminent.

“I am also informed that tourism is picking up and that crime is indeed on the decline.

“Despite this, I am disappointed at

the rate of progress; things have not moved as quickly as I had anticipated and there is still plenty that needs to be done to ensure that TCI gets back on track.”

In the last six months, Mr Rosindell said he had had discussions with Overseas Territories Minister Henry Bellingham and International Development Minister Alan Duncan.

“In these meetings I expressly discussed the concerns raised on my visit and asked that urgent action be taken to address them.”

The Foreign Affairs Committee member has also met with constitution reform leader Kate Sullivan and Governor Gordon Wetherell.

He said talks with London’s Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) were ongoing and that he would “continue to hold the Government to account”.

“I will certainly do all I can to support the people, businesses and industries of Turks & Caicos during this difficult time.

“Ultimately, I am confident

Andrew Rosindell MP (left) and his advisor Starbuck Coleman visited the TCI in August.

that matters will be resolved and that the Conservative-led coalition Government will match up to its responsibilities.

“Turks & Caicos are an important and valued territory of the United Kingdom and I believe that this should be at the forefront of any future foreign policy decisions.”

During a Parliamentary debate in December, Mr Rosindell urged the UK to take immediate action to help lift the Islands out of financial crisis.

He described the country as being

in “economic turmoil” as the budget deficit approached $60m.

He blasted the FCO’s position that UK taxpayers’ money should not be used to bridge the fiscal gap caused by the former TCI Government’s mismanagement.

The Conservative politician has been vocal in calling for London to foot the bill for the costly prosecutions process.

He also condemned a lack of dialogue with political parties on constitutional reform and recommended a total overhaul of the

civil service.

The Romford MP and his advisor Starbuck Coleman spent five days in the TCI last year meeting with business and religious leaders, politicians, charities and community groups.

The trip was funded by local business people frustrated by the economic slump and seeming inaction by Britain to address it.

Mr Rosindell invited anyone with concerns or questions to contact his advisor Starbuck Coleman at colemans@parliament.uk.

Luxury treat for title-winning radio host A LUXURIOUS four day, three night stay at the award winning Point Grace resort was a reward last weekend to Robert Hall, talk show host and former deputy Chief Minister.

The Weekly News named Robert Hall ‘Person of the Year’ for 2010 and Beverly Williams, manager of Point Grace, said it was their honour to host Mr and Mrs Hall at their Grace Bay located property.

Mr Hall, who flew in from Grand Turk, compliments of Air Turks and Caicos and Magnetic Media, said it was an incredible experience.

“This is a beautiful facility and I have had a tremendous time here.

The management and staff have been just great,” said Hall on the day of his departure.

Point Grace also ensured the couple was able to dine at Grace’s Cottage where Chef Vincent Poieevin and his cooking staff prepared a meal which was all the rave.

“The food was absolutely fabulous; and it was not only for the food itself, I loved the ambience of the restaurant; it was just romantic.”

Point Grace wanted to treat Mr Hall, who on Monday broadcasted his Expressions talk show live from his suite, to the weekend to demonstrate to residents that Point Grace is not off limits and welcomes residents for dining, spa treatments or resort stays.

Mr Hall, who once worked for the Tourist Board, believes the Turks and Caicos offers a most unique tourism product.

“Although we have a mixed tourism product, Providenciales has been primarily the upper end and that has boded well for the Turks and Caicos.”

As for what he thought of his three bedroom, top floor suite, complete with ocean views from three rooms, Hall said it was breathtaking.

“The rooms, everything is great. I can see why it has been repeatedly winning several awards. There were so many things which my wife and I have enjoyed.

“For one thing the hotel could not have been situated on a better stretch of beach, Grace Bay Beach.

The ocean view is splendid, day and night.

“In the mornings looking out, as many of the sports activities and boats get out there, there are people walking or jogging the beach and then in the evening, the lights along the shore - magnificent.”

Robert Hall was also thankful for being considered and named Person of the Year 2010 and had gracious remarks for the Weekly News.

“Gemma Handy wrote a beautiful article, to the point where I had to say, ‘is that Robert Hall she’s writing about?’. She spent some time with me on my show in Grand Turk.”

Mrs Maria Hall said the weekend was just lovely and explained that she was and is proud of her husband’s accomplishment.

Mr Hall lightheartedly added: “When they broached the subject with me, I was really, really pleasantly surprised because I don’t work for accolades though a good salary would be nice.

“In fact when I started the programme, I wasn’t even being

Robert Hall and wife Maria were treated to a luxury stay at Point Grace.

paid because it is about providing a service to the people at a critical time.

“More seriously though, it is sure nice to know that members of the public do appreciate the efforts I

have been making and so I am indeed thankful to editor Blythe Duncanson for his selection of me.”

Point Grace also provided chauffeured service in its classic white London cab.

February 12 - 18, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

& CrimeCourt

9

WITH Samantha Dash–RIGBY

Pre-sentencing report ordered for Hutchinson

TWENTY-five-year-old Jamal Hutchinson was found guilty on the count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and not guilty of wounding with intent.

However, he was told to return to the Supreme Court in early March for sentencing pending a social report from a probation officer.

After the seven-member jury panel, which consisted of two

men and five women, returned the verdicts, Justice Richard Williams asked for a pre-sentencing report to assist him in meting out the appropriate punishment.

Despite Hutchinson’s attorney, Mr Arthur Hamilton’s best mitigating efforts, Justice Williams decided that he needed` the report to guide him.

Mr Hamilton informed the judge

that his client comes from a wellknown and respected family.

He is working at the Veranda and has been trying to be a good citizen of the TCI. “He is a young man and has a future ahead of him,” the attorney mitigated.

“He is at risk of a custodial sentence because he used a bottle in a bar,” the judge responded.

He continued: “Those sorts of offences are prevalent offences and the court may consider a custodial sentence.”

Justice Williams said that the

report must confirm Hutchinson’s employment.

He is also expecting correspondence from the defendant’s employer as to his suitability to the work and the effect of it if sent to prison.

The judge cautioned Hutchinson to make himself available and cooperate with the officer who will be doing the report.

Hutchinson faced trial for the wounding of Jamaican national Dwell Davis on Sunday January 11, 2009, while at a Full Moon party at Horse-Eyed Jack in Blue

Hills.

It was said that around 2am on Sunday January 11, 2009, while at a Full Moon party at the popular Blue Hills hangout, Davis got into an altercation with Hutchinson and was wounded as a result.

Davis sustained a blow to the head with a bottle and a gunshot wound to the left chest.

However, although several witnesses including Davis testified in court, no one said that they saw the accused with a gun.

Hutchinson will return to court on March 8.

Bight man on trial for stolen construction equipment

Three Middle East men to be deported from TCI

THE trial against a Kingstown, Bight man charged with theft and handling stolen goods began before Chief Magistrate Joan Joyner and will continue on May 11.

Bradley Theodore was accused of stealing a yellow Robin generator valued at $2,300, a yellow Dewalt saw $800, a flat trailer $3,000 and a bundle of half inch steel $1,800.

He denied the allegations against him and was represented by defence attorney Finbar Grant.

The complainant, Trevor Musgrove, testified under oath that he is a contractor and on December 2, 2008 he was working at a site in Leeward.

Around 5pm he secured his tools, equipment and materials and left for the day.

He returned around 6.30pm to check up on the site and saw a green pick-up truck parked some distance away from the gate.

Although he had noticed it in the area before, he paid no attention to it.

He returned the next morning at 7am and found the chain gone from the gate, the door to his storehouse broken down and several items missing.

He immediately notified the police.

Later that same day, he saw the same green pickup truck in Kingstown, Bight and he called the police.

During cross-examination, he

THREE Middle East men who entered the TCI on an illegal sloop under the cover of darkness were sentenced to prison and now face an uncertain future.

Satpal Singh, Vilpesh Kumar Pancholi and Nadeen-Ur-Rehma appeared before Chief Magistrate Joan Joyner charged with unlawful entry.

The three men were arrested, charged and remanded in early December last year.

They were previously brought before Magistrate Clifton Warner where they admitted to the crime.

However, the proceedings were halted as Principal Crown Counsel JoAnn Meloche approached the Governor’s office for a repatriation order.

She was told that that was not possible and that the only available route was a deportation order from the courts.

Two of the men however, appeared not too keen on being deported and offered to pay their own fare back to their respective home countries.

The other, Rehma, claimed that he borrowed money from persons and is afraid he would be killed if he returned to his country.

Through an interpreter, Magistrate Joyner explained that he would have to apply to the Immigration Department for asylum since that is out of her jurisdiction.

told the court that the generator was rented but he could not remember if the rental contract had expired on December 2.

Police constable Kavin Mars testified that when they got to the Bight, police officers called out the Theodore but he walked off and eventually ran away.

Grant hinted that the Bight is a known market place for illegal drugs and that there could have been another reason why his client ran away from the police.

Mars continued saying that they did not follow Theodore but proceeded to his house since they knew where he lived.

Police constable Bradley Reece said that when they got to Theodore’s house, Musgrove pointed out the generator and saw it as belonging to him.

He gave them serial numbers and they matched the ones on the two pieces of equipment.

At the close of the Crown’s case, Magistrate Joyner informed Theodore that she found he has a case to answer and asked him whether he wished to remain silent, give evidence or call any witnesses.

Mr Grant informed the Magistrate that he did not want his client to answer there and then.

The matter was adjourned until May and summonses are to be served on two defence witnesses.

The court heard that on Tuesday November 9, 2010, members of the SPICE unit apprehended and detained Singh, Pancholi and Rehma.

During the interview, the men admitted that they arrived here on July 20, 2010, by boat and had no legal status in the TCI. They came from the Dominican Republic and landed at night on an unknown shore in Five Cays.

They were housed by someone in Five Cays and paid somewhere between $12,000 to $15,000 for someone to find them a job in Providenciales.

Singh told Magistrate Joyner

that a man from the TCI called his family in India and told them of his plight.

Singh’s family reportedly sent $2,500 via Western Union for his ticket but the man, a Dominican national, uplifted the money from Western Union but did not hand it over to Singh.

He has since been charged and taken before the court for that offence.

The three men were each sentenced to three months imprisonment but it will be taken from the time they already spent in custody.

The Magistrate also recommended that they be deported.

POLICE REMINDERS WITH CALVIN CHASE DETECTIVE POLICE SERGEANT When driving, please remember that the outside lane is for safe overtaking and you should not drive slowly in this lane.

Motorists are often time seen driving below the speed limit along the right lane and this is inconsiderate as well as unsafe for other drivers.

If you wish to drive below the

speed limit then do so in the left lane.

Of course, you should exercise caution and slow down when negotiating a roundabout or a right turn.

Remember the five C’s of driving: care, courtesy, caution, consideration and common sense.

10

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 12 - 18, 2011

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

Letter of the week

Open letter to the Governor Your Excellency, As an Englishman I have long since been disappointed at the apparent lack of progress your administration is making in dealing with the present problems here and am ashamed that the Foreign & Commonwealth Office still refuses to accept any share of the blame for the crisis in this country.

They were certainly not responsible for corruption here but they were responsible for putting incompetent Governors and Attorney Generals in positions which allowed corruption to develop from petty to rampant.

Many years ago, when most of your staff were in diapers or unborn, I worked for a branch of the Foreign Office. At that time, as arrogant young men, we too did not believe that the local residents, either native or expatriate, had much useful advice to offer us. Fortunately, we were in no position to do any place harm.

Unfortunately, the FCO seems to have retained this same attitude, as your experts constantly refuse to accept any local input and are in positions to do considerable harm to the future of this territory.

Contrary to what they may say, few politicians or civil servants in the UK have any interest in the long term development of the Turks & Caicos Islands. What they want, and contrary to what most Islanders believe, is to be rid of this place as quickly and as financially painlessly as possible.

To this end your administration has brought in experts to provide the basis for stable government and minimal debt. Whilst not meaning to belittle these people in any way, their expertise has been learnt elsewhere

and what we need is experience which is relevant for here.

Your experts do not seem inclined to accept any advice from locals or long term residents who are looking for solutions which will return these Islands to the growing prosperity they experienced before this disaster.

I worry that they intend to look for solutions which are in the UK’s interests but which may not be in the long term interests of these Islands.

None of these people are much concerned about our future prospects and will leave as soon as their contracts are finished, quite probably without regret.

What has brought my dissatisfaction to the boil, hence this letter, is that I have spent all of this past week trying to clear a container through Customs under the ‘new streamlined system’.

Unless your administration’s intention is to keep this country from ever being prosperous again, your present efforts, in my opinion, are moving in the wrong direction.

This nonsense started years ago when Britain dispatched another expert to make the Customs Department more efficient. Instead of doing this he went empire building by starting the present system, incorporating false data (none of the listed items are individually weighed) on the necessary forms, and left presumably to create similar havoc elsewhere, proud that he had incorporated Turks & Caicos into what has been falsely promoted as a worldwide system.

At that time hardly anybody knew where Turks & Caicos was, let alone being interested in how many pounds of carrots we imported. What

he did was to add to the cost of doing business here.

Now your experts have gone a step further and expanded the system so that now when we import canned goods, Customs, and whosoever their audience maybe, want to know whether they are peas, corn or beans. Does your administration really believe anyone anywhere is interested in such detail?

This is the typical outcome when experts, with no knowledge of these Islands, impose a foreign system which is not necessary, not useful, not wanted, provides no extra revenue to Government and costs extra time and expense for both the importers and the Customs officials.

Your aim should be to make it as easy and simple (with the necessary safeguards) to do business in this territory. Your new Customs system does the opposite. Additionally, I am informed that anyone wanting to do their own Customs entries will have to go back to a school to be approved.

Anyone not approved will have to use a broker. This is complete and utter nonsense.

Similarly with taxes. Your Administration has talked of expanding the tax base and suggested property taxes, amongst others.

If your experts listened at all to local people they would have told them that taxes here have to be simple to implement and funded at source. If they are not, they will cost more to collect than is received in revenue. Part of the problem is not the width of the tax base but the lack of enforcement for collection.

Before our politicians emptied the treasury, these Islands were generating enough tax revenue

through the existing tax system so that, even with a bloated civil service, we were one of the most progressive territories in the Caribbean.

When the economy was running normally, the existing tax system was shown to work. It will do so again when the present indecision and doubts have passed. Additional taxes are not required. What is required is for the economy to start working again.

As long as your administration continues to dither and talks of imposing additional taxes, especially property taxes, potential investors will keep their money in their pockets or move it elsewhere.

Many local experts have advised against the imposition of property taxes as being the death knell for these Islands and they may be correct. These Islands have attracted investors from all over the world who like the climate, the beaches, the local people and the twin pillars of this economy – the combination of a British Territory with the US dollar.

They will continue to invest their (tax already paid) dollars into holiday homes etc in this economy if it is seen to be running half way efficiently, has limited crime and know that their investment is safe and will not be taxed out of existence.

Perhaps your administration really believes it will be the Government’s proposals which will lead this country back to prosperity. Everyone here will tell you the only way forward is through the private sector. It cannot do this if it is burdened down with more and more costs.

Towards the end of Governor Poston’s term, I wrote to him suggesting that if the British

Government insisted on keeping the local police force directly under its control he should request enough funds to allow it to operate effectively.

Unfortunately the calibre of previous Governors has been such that they have been more concerned with pleasing their UK political masters than properly serving the interests of these Islands.

A small amount of money spent then might have helped to limit the present breakdown of security and the doubt amongst residents of the present police force’s ability to change matters.

What the people need is transparency showing that progress is being made; some assurance that Ms Garlick’s team will retrieve more money for these Islands than her lawyers are costing us, and that they will competently prosecute the individuals responsible for these crimes.

I would be both pleased (and surprised) to receive an email from your office explaining any errors in my thoughts above. Regrettably I think it more likely that this letter, together with the copies sent to various UK offices will be binned, as apparently was the case with my letter to Governor Poston.

I have therefore sent a copy to the Weekly News in the hope that they will publish it to show solidarity with the vast majority of TC Islanders who were not involved in corruption, and who are now struggling to survive with little confidence in either your experts or your administration to bring improvement.

B B Wigglesworth

TCI: The unfinished revolution Dear Editor, During the 1960s, 70s and 80s - much of Britain’s colonies in the Caribbean region had organised themselves in such a manner that they all would be granted, however reluctantly, an increased measure of selfdetermination, if not independence.

Be it Jamaica in 1962, a member of the Commonwealth, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in 1963 or the Turks & Caicos Islands in

1976 having elected its first Chief Minister.

This reference is used to highlight that these nations had an opportunity to exercise their will, in determining the destiny of their respective countries.

Obviously, all countries have had their fair share of successes and failures; however, it is my view that the full potential of the TCI has not and could not be reached over the

LETTERS SHOULD BE KEPT TO A MAXIMUM OF 450 WORDS

decades since ministerial system of government came into force.

This, primarily, is owing to events surrounding four key leaders that charted its course.

By most accounts our first Chief Minister JAGS McCartney was a transformational figure much in line with the likes of Alexander Bustamante and Norman Manley of Jamaica, Lester Bird of Antigua and Barbuda, Dr Eric Williams of

Trinidad and Tobago, or Sir Lynden Pindling in our neighbouring Bahamas.

Be it charisma, intellect, passion, vision or sheer will, Hon McCartney possessed all the tools needed to lead the country towards its destiny.

Unfortunately, as we know, he died before he or the country could reach or realise their potential.

Cut from the same cloth as McCartney, though they may have

Part one

had differing views politically, and the way in which they would seek to move the country forward, was Hon Norman Saunders.

Another of this country’s most dynamic intellectual beings, Hon Saunders much like JAGS, had a great love for our country and its people.

Progress would continue to be continued 

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.

14

February 12 - 18, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Letters

11

continued

A financial albatross Dear Editor, I have been listening to some of the hype associated with this $260m loan and have to ask some serious questions. First of all, it is a loan from the commercial banks and backed by DFID; not a loan from the UK Government! This “loan” is something that we have to pay back at commercial rates. It is certainly not a grant, which we would not have had to repay.

That being said, I did a quick calculation to see how we would fare with this just-in-the-nick-oftime “loan”. The facility is for a five-year period. I took the interest rate as being seven per cent and did the simple interest calculation; this showed that the monthly payment would be $5.833m.

Next, I asked a friend to use the amortisation tables and give me the monthly payment using the same time and interest rate. Her calculations turned up $5.136m. Kind note, for this exercise, I have decided to use the lesser amount.

Added to this figure, we have to factor in the monthly civil service cost of say $7.50m, then the unitary payment for the hospitals at approximately $2m, another $2m for operational and miscellaneous costs.

I stop there! The monthly outlay is now $16.636m.

On the revenue side, the TCI Government is collecting between $9m and $12m per month. When our revenue was in the region of $22.5m and $25m, it would have been easy to maintain! However, in our current scenario, we are showing at best a deficit of $4.636m and at worst, $7.636m! There are just a few ways to close the deficit gap and that is through a combination of revenue increase and cutting of expenditure!

For a start, the big fat target is

the civil service and its associated costs! Using the number 35 per cent that has been bandied about in certain circles, that yields a savings of $3.325m. So, from your best and worst situations, you still have a gap of either $1.311m or $4.311m that has to be closed and still provide a surplus!

Now in comes VAT, and/or land taxes. Both of these ideas have been floated by the interim administration and shot down in most quarters. But you continue to hear that a right sizing of the civil service exercise as well as a revenue enhancing study are underway. So, the double barrel loaded gun is now pointed squarely at our heads!

Look at where we are today since the Governor and his cohorts took over under the guise of ridding the country of all semblance of corruption in public life and put the country on a sound financial footing!

We were not permitted to borrow $120m for policy based investment, but Wetherell borrowed $80m; the impact on our economy that amount being negligible, now on top of that he is going for $260m! He closed down all of the projects that were providing inward investment and thereby jobs for TC Islanders and to date has not provided any tangible alternative! So we are going right to hell in a hand basket!

Let us back up a bit! When we – the Williams/Robinson administration, were the last duly elected government – we were in discussions with the commercial banks for the policy based loan, we clearly annunciated the areas on which we were going to spend the money to provide an injection of capital in the economy.

Areas of focus were the causeway between North and Middle Caicos, a new primary school for Providenciales; and a new campus

Details of loan please Dear Editor, I am deeply concerned about the $260,000 loan the British Government is taking out on behalf of the Turk and Caicos Islands.

There has been much hype about it, but I beg to pose two questions on behalf of our people that I hope the Governor does oblige with answers.

Firstly, what are the terms and conditions of the loan? In particular, what interest are we going to be burdened with and for how long?

Secondly, since the Brits stated that they are not going to hand the country over until the budget is balanced, when can the people of the TCI expect a return of democracy given the staggering amount of the

loan?

Until the above questions are considered, I am not going to be celebrating the additional f i n a n c i a l obligation.

It is expected that my people will probe this loan and in fact whether it should be pursued at all, and if called upon to contest its acquisition that they will stand, less we all suffer under British rule for more years than we care to.

Euwonka Selver

for the TCI Community College so that a number of trades such as mechanics, plumbing, carpentry, masonry, electrical to name a few could be offered so that the students that are not academically inclined could still avail themselves of a skill that could ensure they can put food on the table and not become a menace to society.

I, like many others, are of the opinion that these guys have not laid out a plan yet as to how the money is to be spent. Let alone a memo with bullet points for us to see!

It is often the case that, whenever you go to any lending institution for money, you have to give the details as to what the money is for. If they do not want to give us the figures down to the last brass penny, that is all right. It would be best that they give us the areas in which the money is to be spent in broad terms. The thing is, no matter how the money is spent; we the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands will be tasked with the repayment.

That leads me to the area of the UK’s insistence in putting financial management and balance budget

requirements in our constitution!

If we have to have a balanced budget in three years in the type of environment that we find ourselves in, then you can see their solution is simple!

Cut all of the social safety nets, send significant numbers of persons home without the prospect of having a chance to provide for their families!

Make no mistake about it, Hon. Galmo Williams and I realised that the civil service was bloated and needed to be trimmed. We were going for a phase approach and had asked the Governor for help.

His expert Martin Stanley was to provide assistance, but up to the time of his departure, he had done diddly!

He seemed to have just been marking time until Mark Capes could be free from Bermuda!

We were taking a phased approach coupled with an expansion of the TCI economy, so that those persons let go from the service could find meaningful jobs in TCI! Up to this moment, I have not seen anything that is being done to jumpstart the economy!

When we were requesting assistance, the dollar amount was small, but you can see from their calculation that it has grown substantially and the turnaround is going to be harder.

So those of you that think that a quick fix is in, must think of the consequences as they are today. In many respects, it would be better to phase in the identified work force reduction over three years, aggressively pursue an inward investment strategy while broadening the revenue base.

At that point in time, revenue needed to effectively service the debt would be available and we would have a very effective and dynamic, but streamlined public service that would be really geared to service delivery.

Any failure to achieve sensible goals such as these would only hasten the day when we become a ‘welfare state’ without the prospects of living up to our real potential and having our flag raised among the other nations of the world!

By Royal S. Robinson MB

COMMENTARY

The slippery fish IN THE old song ‘Swinging on a Star’ a verse talks about the fish whose only thought was to fool the people.

It goes on to say despite being slippery, he (the fish) still gets caught.

The self taught genius and great emancipator President Abraham Lincoln is often quoted: “You can fool some of the people all the time and all the people some of the time. You can not fool all the people all the time.”

This must be obvious in the TCI yet certain individuals seem to ignore facts.

In the campaign and election of 2007 this was amply demonstrated.

The incumbent PNP party had all the factors on their side: Massive amounts of funding, some apparently from a loan using a campaigner’s land as collateral.

Funding from the government coffers themselves.

Television and radio media and a couple of newspapers on their side.

A history of passing out jobs, land and other goodies to buy support.

Massive parties with unlimited supplies of spirits.

By David Tapfer The voodoo ceremony burying the opposition and campaign photos hanging from every other lamp post.

Election districts pre-programmed with non residents allegedly voting.

Yet despite all this planning and hoopla, 43 per cent of the voters went for the Opposition.

If one out of 10 voters had switched, it would have been a win for Seymour’s opposition.

Later that same election year the FAC conducted their 10 year review of the overseas territories and so many complaints flowed in, FAC came to call in early 2008.

So one year after the ‘landslide’ victory the hand writing was on the wall.

The mess was too big and too suspicious to stand. Bills unpaid with massive debts accumulated.

The budget and the country was busted, broke and sliding downhill fast.

By 2006 that slide was obvious.

Denials were everywhere as bank statements were waved in people’s faces.

Unfortunately even the bank itself went down as no one could pay the loans or manage the bank, let alone the government.

Now, with reforms being put in place attempting to head off any possible repeat of this mess, we read and hear former PNP supporters calling out the reformers.

The Queen’s people may be enjoying the weather but England is still home sweet home and I am sure they miss it.

Remember why they are here and why they had to come and why they have to bring in funds.

There is a limit to what people will believe after they have lived with the realities of the last seven and a half years.

Seven and a half long years wasted.

Words can be as slippery as fish, but if they do not ring true those slippery fish will still be caught.

12

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 12 - 18, 2011

NATIONAL

‘A giant of a man’ Bishop Michael Hartley Eldon passes away

TRULY MISSED: Michael Eldon was a popular, beloved, gentle people’s person

FRIENDS, family and churchgoers are all in mourning this week after the death of the beloved Bishop Michael Hartley Eldon.

Bishop Eldon, of the Anglican Church of The Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands, passed away at 12.50am on Monday, aged 79, after a long illness.

He fell sick on January 31, 2005 and was hospitalised in Nassau. On Ash Wednesday that year he fell into a coma and never woke up. For the past year he was looked after at the Princess Margaret Hospital.

Michael Hartley Eldon was born in the Bahamas on August 8, 1931. He was ordained Deacon on July 22, 1954, and Priest on August 10, 1955.

Because of his scholastic attainment at an early age, as a young Deacon he taught

mathematics at St John’s College - the first Bahamian to teach there.

Bishop Eldon was also the first Bahamian to serve as Bishop of the Diocese. He was consecrated Bishop of New Providence on June 24, 1971.

He became Diocesan Bishop in April, 1972 and served in that capacity for 24 years until his retirement on August 31, 1996. Since September 1, 1996, he acted as Assistant Bishop of the Diocese.

Michael Eldon was a popular, beloved, gentle people’s person. He had a deep faith in God and high hopes for people.

He was passionate about improving people and their lot. He loved the church, loved being in church, and loved the worship of the church.

As a priest and as a bishop

he was known as a pastor, a carer, and a listener. He was particularly passionate about developing indigenous clergy and about helping the clergy to be their best.

As a Bishop he travelled the Bahamas and TCI extensively.

He knew every island and community well and had a phenomenal memory.

Sources said it was absolutely amazing how he knew Anglicans and others from all over the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos, and could say who they were, who their parents were, and which settlement they were from.

On many visits to Salt Cay, he told the members of St John’s Church that when he retired he would come to live there to enjoy the quiet and peaceful environment.

He was instrumental in the

construction of St Monica’s Church in Providenciales. He dedicated the new church in 1989.

Michael Eldon made a significant contribution to the spiritual and social life of people in the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Friends described him as “a giant of a man” in every respect.

A spokesperson for the TCI church said: “The TCI community extends its condolences to his sister and other relatives, and to the Anglican Church family in the Turks and Caicos Islands – especially to the clergy who are stationed here - Canon Mark Kendall, Canon Lamuel Been and Fr Bernard Been.

“May the soul of Bishop Michael Eldon rest in peace.”

February 12 - 18, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

13

NATIONAL

Learn how to hunt lionfish – TCI diver creates PADI speciality course

By Rebecca Bird A TCI SCUBA instructor became so incensed with lionfish taking over the country’s beautiful waters that she has created a course on how to get rid of them.

Stephanie Wallwork, of Dive Provo, put together a PADI speciality that will give divers the knowledge and skills to successfully hunt the invasive species.

The course includes two practical dives along with theory on the geographic invasion of the fish, their impact, how to capture them, and how to humanely euthanise them.

Stephanie told the Weekly News: “This is an important issue that we need to deal with before we have no fish left. Everyone needs to get involved.”

Stephanie, an experienced dive instructor, first noticed the impact of lionfish while running a dive centre on Andros in the Bahamas from 2006 to 2008.

Lionfish are voracious and will eat nearly anything on the reef that fits in their mouths including brittle stars, shrimps, crabs and sea urchins.

Because of this, they have devastated entire reefs in a matter of weeks, consuming a large percentage of juvenile fish populations.

“During that time we saw the lionfish come in to our

waters but were unaware of the devastation that they could cause,” she said.

“By the time we found out it was a bit too late and the waters became pretty overrun with them.

“The fish population was affected especially one of my favourite fish, the Nassau grouper.”

Stephanie moved to the Turks and Caicos Islands in March 2008 where she worked as a dive instructor with Dive Provo.

“Again I saw the lionfish start to invade our waters and I did not want a repeat of what happened in the Bahamas.”

Luckily the government and dive centres were a lot quicker to react.

Dive Provo led the way by arranging and paying for Lad Atkins from REEF – a group of divers and marine enthusiasts committed to ocean conservation - to come to Providenciales.

He led sessions teaching dive instructors and the government’s Department of Environment and Coastal resources the correct and safe way to capture and euthanise the fish.

Since then, Stephanie explained, Dive Provo staff have taken time to hunt the fish whenever possible and have also been teaching guests and residents how to capture them.

“Everyone who has had a go

loves it,” Stephanie said, “in fact we now have guests returning specifically to hunt lionfish.”

However the team wanted something more. They wanted to be able to give something back and raise awareness of the invasion.

So the idea for the PADI speciality was born, “as they can reach a far wider audience than we can,” Stephanie said.

The course took a number of weeks to put together as Stephanie had to review research written on the subject and come up with a paper that was educational and fun.

She then submitted it to the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) for approval.

“Historically PADI have declined specs such as this as they really only wanted people to monitor rather than capture lionfish, but in light of the spread of these fish their stance has now changed,” she explained.

“They approached me to see if this could be offered to all instructors within the PADI Americas region to use to teach once they had received their instructor rating and I agreed.”

The one day course, which includes two open water dives, will be available to any certified divers over the age of 15 from the end of February.

Divers will learn about the geographic invasion of the fish, how they are impacting in

LIONFISH HUNTER: Stephanie captures lionfish using the ‘net technique’ in TCI waters

regions such as the TCI, how to safely capture them using the ‘net technique’ and how to

humanely euthanise them.

During the first dive the student will observe the

capturing technique while helping with the transference to the holding bag and during the second dive they will then capture the fish themselves.

The course also raises the awareness of REEF and how to help them.

There is the option for the dive centres to donate a percentage of their course costs to REEF which Dive Provo has agreed to do.

Stephanie said: “I have to say Alan and Clare Jardine have worked hard behind the scenes liaising with REEF and PADI and have helped push this through.

“This is something that everyone wins from - REEF receives extra funds, the diver has a recognised certification, and PADI are helping raise awareness - the only loser is the lionfish!

“By the by, lionfish is very tasty to eat and the next step is getting it to be a commercially viable fish, on menus at restaurants and people eating it at home.”

14

Letters

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 12 - 18, 2011

continued

Don’t follow Anguilla In defence of Dear Editor, We have heard quite a great deal about Anguilla in our country of late.

Whilst we do recognise that we are both UK territories I do not believe we should get involved with their affairs to the extent that we have been doing, mainly through the efforts of Expressions.

Let us focus on our own problems here in the TCI and find our own solutions. Both countries have their individual histories and we should not seek to get involved in the affairs of Anguilla.

I came upon this article entitled ‘Be Careful What You Wish For’ published in the The Anguillian newspaper October 29th 2010 and written by Victor Banks, a member of the Anguillian opposition party.

The article hit home to us here in the TCI. “Since the ascendance of the present Government to the reigns of authority in Anguilla the airwaves have been inundated with cries for independence. These cries become louder whenever there is a confrontation between the Chief Minister and Governor or when it is perceived that the Government is not getting the desired response from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office on its requests.

“On the Chief Minister’s behalf I have heard him say ‘we cannot go into independence when the country is divided’. Whatever he means by that statement, my interpretation is that he recognises that it cannot take place by his decree; it must be as a result of a referendum.

“His actions however speak otherwise because he continues to compare himself to Nelson Mandela saying that he is prepared to go to prison for the liberation of ‘his people’.”

Reminds me of the same talk here in TCI. The Chief Minister postures himself as the champion of unity, he compares himself to Nelson Mandela, he defines himself as a nationalist, he tries to write himself into the Anguilla revolution, he undermines the significance of the Anguilla revolution and he claims that the Holy Spirit intervened to make him Chief Minister.

Can it be that the Chief Minister is trying to establish himself as the father of Anguilla’s independence?

For some time now, I have been considering addressing the topic of independence.

During a conversation with a supporter on my way to St Martin earlier this week, he said that the Government and some of its supporters are constantly talking about independence but none of them are explaining to the people what they should expect in an independent Anguilla.

While I recognised the validity

of his comment it further dawned on me that many of us who have the experience and influence are not doing so either. And I am aware of the fact that there is a perception among many persons, especially in this period of challenge, that independence may be the panacea for all our ills.

As a member of the past Government which was involved in a constitutional and electoral reform exercise for many years, I am very much aware of the misconceptions and misunderstandings related to the issues of constitutional advancement, including political independence.

And I must admit that there were areas of discussion where we all required expert interpretation and advice.

I think this part is important.

“While there are those who believe that if Anguilla goes into independence we will be swamped with financial assistance from a number of international agencies, others have pointed to cases from Haiti, the first nation in our region to go into independence as far back as January 1 1804, to the last, St KittsNevis which went independent on September 19 1983.”

Many of these countries do not qualify for concessionary aid which, because of its scarcity, is now directed to the poorest of the poor nations of the world.

Here are some examples of questions I have been asked by a number of discerning Anguillians about going into independence. We must ask the same questions here in the TCI. Who will now be responsible for our defence and external affairs?

Will this change impact our main industries, namely tourism and financial services, that rely heavily on foreign investors and customers who are sensitive to changes in political arrangements?

What will be our relationship with regional organisations like OECS and Caricom?

Who will assist us in protecting our vast marine resources and territorial waters?

Fortunately for us, independence

for Anguilla does not require a violent national revolution against our administering power.

The path to independence is clearly set out in our relationship agreements with the British Government. Civil disobedience is not required, only civil negotiations. Why then do we get the distinct impression from the Chief Minister’s behaviour, and that of his supporters, that the independence they seek requires a public uprising?

Why is it that some callers, and even the hosts of many radio talk shows, lose their voices and wax emotional, with tears, against an “oppressor” who has already unshackled the “chains of captivity” just for the asking?

Why is it that a radio talk show host should invoke biblical imagery to justify the actions of a Chief Minister who believes that the rules apply to everyone else but him?

When will this Government settle down and do the people’s business in accordance with good governance and rule of law? When will the lies cease?

There are those who believe that because of party loyalty they should be sympathetic to the Government’s call for independence. They have bought in to the conspiracy theories that there is a plan by the AUF and the FCO to destroy Anguilla.

As ridiculous as this may sound to reasonable people, there are those who genuinely believe that such a scenario independence is the desired solution and that the Chief Minister, described as the Anguillian Moses and the Father of Independent Anguilla, will take us all safely to the biblical promised land.

A radio talk show host was praying fervently on Monday for such deliverance. And while his prayer reverberated over the airwaves, a friend of mine, less ostentatiously, remarked, ‘Be careful what you wish for’. So prophetic!

Wake up my people, do not be fooled into believing that we must take the path as Anguilla.

Phillip Cooper

Angela Tucker Dear Editor, After writing a few letters to your fine paper I have been lucky enough to meet several individuals who have had rough experiences solving disputes in the court which holds a government granted monopoly in this area.

I would like to bring a few of these to the public’s attention.

The first would be the case of Angela Tucker. This lady worked faithfully at Beaches hotel for about 10 years, after which time she was fired in a most public way for “causing unrest” and being an alleged “ring leader”.

She took the dispute to the government appointed monopoly for solving disputes and as expected she won her case and was expecting to receive her settlement; however the case was appealed to the Supreme Court by Beaches’ learned friend for some “other substantial reason”.

I read the court documents and for the life of me I can’t see what the “other substantial reason” was.

Not surprisingly Angela won the appeal too, and the judge promised her that she would be able to appear before him to discuss the settlement between the two parties.

This has not happened as Angela tells me Beaches’ counsel was allowed to write up the settlement documents and a cheque was issued out.

Angela and her associates did not accept this cheque as the Lord Jesus told her not to, and she is waiting for her chance to discuss the matter with the judge so a fair settlement to end this dispute can be reached.

In my view the biggest problem is due to the inefficiency of the process.

Angela has had her good name and reputation tarnished and hurt, and this has been proven by the fact that when she was granted a job by another hotel, as she was about to take

it they informed her that she was not wanted because she is a “trouble maker”.

In my view this is a disgrace, the lady worked for 10 years at Beaches; this is not how she should be treated.

Furthermore she should be allowed to appear before the judge so as to bring a fair end to this argument.

It’s coming on 10 years and there still has not been a fair resolution to this dispute. Ladies and gentlemen, this is wrong!

I agree with Angela’s opinion that there are two sets of rules, one for the big man and one for the little man.

A perfect example being the present fact that it appears that somebody has issued search warrants and is releasing a stream of negative publicity over the alleged actions of two former Beaches employees Dr Pine and Mr Lynch, but the public hears nothing at all concerning what Beaches may have done or who has benefited.

The fact is Dr Pine and Mr Lynch’s fine reputations are being wrongly tarnished and hurt, and in effect they are being tried and convicted publicly long before anyone has been charged with any crime. In our view this is out of order.

This is bizarre, and maybe the lucky clover needs to change hands.

I would encourage our past and present leaders to remember justice; as the image of the angel of justice epics, she carries the scales of impartiality in one hand, she has the drawn sword of judgment in the other and she has on a special blindfold which renders her not subject to influence. A visit is imminent.

John Wildish

TCI: The unfinished revolution made in the administration of the country’s affairs and relationship under Saunders’ leadership until his abrupt removal due to his arrest and subsequent imprisonment related to drug related offences.

A commission of inquiry would follow shortly thereafter, along with the suspension of ministerial government.

Within 10 years of the introduction of said ministerial

government, the TCI had lost two of it most influential, consequential and prolific leaders.

Under the Chief Ministership of the Hon Hugh Derek Taylor, the TCI would see its longest sustained period of prosperity like no other leader before him or since.

Known for his quiet demeanour, pragmatism was his best quality.

From the expansion of the tourist product, to his aptitude for finding

low risk high reward developments for the country to grow its consumer base while positioning our institutions to best handle our growing economy.

This resulted in the TCI being called the ‘Star of the Caribbean’, the most watched island nation.

Going into a historic third term in office, Hon Taylor’s leadership abruptly ended after the 2003 general elections when two

continued 

constituencies’ results came into question.

A court case ensued. By-elections were held. The Taylor administration was out!

What would have another four years under the helm of Taylor looked like? We will never know…

Part two of this letter to follow next week.

Ryan Garland

February 12 - 18, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

15

NATIONAL

PPC looks into renewable energy IS RENEWABLE energy cost effective? That’s the question a top economic consultant will be looking into on behalf of PPC over the coming months.

Dr Jonathan Lesser, president of Continental Economics, is now in the TCI and will soon begin conducting an independent assessment on the feasibility of using eco friendly resources.

PPC’s CEO and president

Eddinton Powell said he is extremely pleased to have secured the services of Continental Economics.

Based in the USA, the company provides expert economic services for a range of energy-related matters including economic impact studies, environmental policy and cost-benefit analysis.

“It is important that we do proper econometric and

engineering studies on the viability of renewable energy before embarking on this road,” Mr Powell said.

“The experience with utility scale renewable energy worldwide is mixed.

“There are significant opportunities in renewable energy under the right conditions but experience has shown that electricity consumers and tax payers will

pay the price if the national policy is wrong.”

PPC selected Dr Lesser based on his 25 years of experience on utilities and renewable energy.

He has advised governments on electric policy issues including restructuring and competition, renewable resource investments and regulatory policy in Central America, the Caribbean, and Canada.

The economic consultant

has also prepared economic impact studies on generating resource development including geothermal and nuclear power plants and evaluated the economic impacts of electric industry policies that affect electric market prices.

Dr Lesser said: “PPC Ltd asked that I provide an independent assessment of the potential of renewable energy

to meet their customers’ electricity needs, with special regard to the costs of renewable energy, the company’s distribution system and the regulatory framework within which the company operates.

“I am looking forward to working with PPC staff and other interested parties to determine what will best serve the interest of the country.”

wishes

Congratulations

Marcella!

DR AND Mrs Hugh R Malcolm and family are happy to announce that their daughter Marcella E Malcolm has successfully completed her medical studies for the MB, BS degree at the University of the West Indies.

We wish to congratulate Marcella on her achievement.

Dr Marcela Malcolm will be doing her internship at the Princess Margaret Hospital, Nassau, Bahamas.

We love you Marcella ‘Emelita’ and we’re so proud of you!

Send your special occasion to: Rebecca Bird, Weekly News, Cheshire House, Leeward Highway, PO Box 52, Providenciales or email to rebecca-bird@hotmail.com. Free of Charge!

KINDHEARTED: DDME employee Deborah Prospere, assistant deputy director Desmond Lightbourne, deputy director Dorothy Clarke, CEO of Digicel E Jay Saunders and Digicel marketing specialist Trina Adams

Digicel donates emergency cots and blankets

TCI is now better prepared for a hurricane thanks to a hefty donation from Digicel.

The telecoms company provided more than 100 cots and 100 blankets to the government’s Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) on Wednesday.

During a ceremony at the Office of Disaster Management in Providenciales, Digicel CEO E Jay Saunders and marketing specialist Trina Adams handed over the gifts to DDME staff.

Deputy director of the DDME Dorothy Clarke said

she was extremely grateful for the donation.

She added that the items are much needed and will be put to good use.

Mr Saunders said that Digicel would continue to assist and support hurricane season preparations.

Please limit your messages to 150 words.

CAPAA C o r n e r

Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Association Your source for information on the rights and protection of children

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

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

Article 8 Every child has the right to an identity.

CAPAA Comment The individual characteristics by which a child is recognised or known is their identity. Identity

is an umbrella term used throughout the social sciences to describe an individual’s comprehension of him or herself. For these reasons it is imperative that children are raised in a positive and healthy environment to ensure that they are comfortable and love themselves for who they are. Children have a right to be themselves; we should protect this right and enforce it.

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

16

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 12 - 18, 2011

NATIONAL

Swine flu may be back DRAMATIC RISE: Acute Respiratory Illness (ARI) cases reported for the period October 2010 to January 2011 show a dramatic increase compared to the corresponding period October 2009 to January 2010.

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

Economics Column

Loan is “best news in years” THE NEWS that Parliament has been asked to approve a sovereign guarantee to international banks in support of a $260m five year loan facility for HMG TCI is the best news we have had in years.

We should all be grateful to Alan Duncan, the Minister for Overseas Development, the Governor and the entire team for stepping up to deal with the terrible mess left behind by our Great Leader and his coven.

After making an intensive effort to get their arms around the problems, what is needed has now been quantified. A plan has been formulated, and actions agreed upon.

Congratulations are due to the finance and economics team sent to help dig us out of a huge hole.

The announcement also suggests that a policy shift is underway in London towards acknowledging that, as Andrew Rosindell MP has urged, the overseas territories are in fact part of Britain.

They can’t be allowed to become failed states in the hands of corrupt administrations, nor can they be allowed to sink into poverty and made vulnerable to even more dangerous criminals.

Presumably the banks will bid at sovereign rates for dollar loans, and it will be an interesting test of UK sovereign rates compared to five year US T bond rates, currently standing at 2.68 per cent a year. The amount of $260m is a very tiny one in capital markets, so this will hardly be a marker for the market.

Nevertheless its significance for the other OTs and the wider Caribbean capital markets will be noted.

The background is that the disastrous level of recurring expenditure in 2008 of nearly $260m has been trimmed back to about $180m for this year. On the revenue side, there has been a collapse from about $206m in 2008, to only $120m this year resulting in an estimated current deficit of $60m.

Capital expenditure of $30m is supported by $20m of grants, for a net CAPEX outlay from our own resources of $10m for the year to March 2011.

We can suppose that $260m borrowing will be used to repay interest bearing debt from banks and

others at old TCI rates. In addition it will be used to repay the well-known creditor arrears, boosting local business, and to finance the present deficit. Any balance will be used to pay off sundry bits and pieces and to finance the deficits arising until the budget balances in 2013.

As the stated aim is to keep tax revenues at around 25 per cent of GDP, and assuming that GDP at current prices is running between $550m and $600m, we can expect that the eventual target for recurring revenue will be somewhere around $160m.

A balanced budget implies expenditure of $160m including debt service (cash on cash three per cent a year for a 15 year term) of around $20m a year.

The debt can eventually be placed on a longer term footing after the country has demonstrated its fiscal responsibility.

We must hope that CAPEX to be financed by grants will fill the gap in GDP caused by the sum of a $20m fall in recurring expenditure, the $20m drain of cash overseas to meet debt repayments, and the $20m increase in taxation receipts needed to balance the budget.

Taken together, these represent downward pressure on GDP of around 10 per cent at the planning horizon of March 2013, or five per cent a year. If that gap is not filled, the plan will fail because it is extremely unlikely that the private sector will make up for that shrinkage. If overall GDP shrinks, so will government revenues.

We must assume that the airport loan will wash its own face. The $125m hospital loan has a Canadian sovereign guarantee, and implicitly one from the UK, so that can be effectively managed over the longer term, even in the event of a de facto default and restructuring.

It is also vital, absolutely vital, that deregulation of the economy, including the labour market, is undertaken immediately. Otherwise the private sector component of GDP will not resume growth rapidly enough and, even worse, depopulation will continue bringing further shrinkage in GDP, and the whole plan will unravel, dumping a default in the Queen’s lap.

MEDICAL experts suspect that swine flu may be partially responsible for a dramatic upsurge in reports of influenza.

On Wednesday the Ministry of Health announced that doctors have seen a large increase in fever and respiratory symptoms this flu season.

Cases have almost doubled in October 2010 to January 2011 compared to October 2009 to January 2010.

“It is possible that the Influenza A (H1N1) virus is the predominant virus responsible for these cases,” the public statement reads.

“The ministry is currently conducting tests to determine if this is the case.”

The illness that often affects otherwise healthy adults was first detected on March 18, 2009.

It quickly became a global pandemic - with hundreds of thousands of infections confirmed worldwide.

Influenza A (H1N1), which originated in Mexico, killed close to 14,000 people and infected persons were found in 210 countries across the globe.

A number of people died from the virus in the Caribbean including in the Dominican Republic, St Kitts and Nevis, Jamaica, and in the Cayman Islands.

About 40 cases were reported in the TCI however to date there has been no hospitalisation as a result of the flu and everyone who has contracted the virus has responded well to treatment.

All of the confirmed and suspected cases have been given Tamiflu and placed in isolation for seven days or until the symptoms disappear, whichever is longer.

Influenza A (H1N1) eventually seemed to fade away by early 2010 and by August the World Health Organisation declared it was “postpandemic”.

The Ministry of Health advises:

• Cover your nose and mouth whenever you sneeze and/or cough, preferably with a tissue, and throw the tissue in the trash after use.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water especially after coughing or sneezing.

• Use alcohol-based hand sanitisers in the absence of soap and water.

• Avoid close contact with sick persons especially those with respiratory illnesses.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth as germs are often spread in this way.

However, swine flu is still making people sick, even killing some patients in parts of the world, and is expected to do so for years to come.

The deadly disease can be spread through contact with infected pigs or contaminated environments however it cannot be caught by eating pork products.

Human-to-human spread has also been documented and is thought to be transmitted through droplet infection when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Symptoms of swine flu can be mild to severe and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, diarrhoea and vomiting.

The Ministry of Health urges anyone with flu-like symptoms to continue to seek medical attention early to determine whether their illness is due to Influenza A (H1N1).

Dr Rufus Ewing, director of health services, told the Weekly News that he encourages everyone to obtain the seasonal flu immunisation which contains swine flu vaccine.

However the Ministry of Health will be targeting “priority” groups such as the young, elderly, pregnant and health care workers.

SLIGHT INCREASE: Gastroenteritis cases reported in the TCI for the period October 2010 to January 2011 show a less dramatic increase compared to the corresponding period October 2009 to January 2010

February 12 - 18, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

17

NATIONAL

Top model comp on hold TCI’s thrilling top model competition will not be held this year because of the country’s “adverse economic climate”.

The annual TCI Top Model Contest and Fashion Extravaganza, which showcases the beauty and creativity of young aspiring fashion and design talent, has been put on hold until further notice.

Courtney Robinson, executive producer of the contest, said: “We put a lot of time, care and preparation in staging the TCI Top Model Contest and Fashion Extravaganza.

“Providing the necessary training, grooming and guidance for the participants is fundamentally utmost.

“The contest is not an ordinary catwalk show, modelling contest or fashion competition - it is an event geared to give participants an opportunity of a lifetime, exposure and a springboard to a career in fashion design, fashion modelling and photography in the TCI and, hopefully, further afield.”

He continued: “As a committee, we pride ourselves on producing a high calibre event that participants, sponsors and attendees have come to love, enjoy and expect.

“Nothing short of the best is what we strive for each year. And it would be remiss of us should we not hold true to our ethos now.”

Last year’s event ‘The Beautiful Experience’ saw 18year-old Ashley Smith capturing the coveted ‘TCI Top Model’ prize and Raynelis Howell winning the ‘TCI Fashion Designer of the Year’ competition.

Slated for Friday, April 29, this year’s event was expected to be

Friday, February 11 to Thursday, February 17 Friday, February 11  Come and hear the Island Boys play at Monte restaurant and bar this Friday from 10.30pm.

The bar is located in Venice Plaza, next to the General Post Office, in downtown Providenciales.

Saturday, February 12  It’s that time of year again for the annual Valentines Day Cup on Bambarra Beach in Middle Caicos.

Come along and enjoy good food, great music and friendly competition all while raising money for the Middle Caicos Sailing Association youth programme.

During the day you can watch or participate in traditional Turks and Caicos model sailboat races.

There will also be a cook out hosted by the Conch Bar Church of God of Prophecy and live music by Lucky and Lovey Forbes.

Bring your boat, your friends and your family to Middle Caicos from 1030am to 4pm.

For more information email middlecaicos@tciway.tc

MODEL WINNER: Last year’s event ‘The Beautiful Experience’ saw 18-year-old Ashley Smith capturing the coveted ‘TCI Top Model’ prize

more elaborate than the former two - bigger prizes and top modelling agencies from America’s East and West Coast scouting for fresh faces.

However organisers decided to put it on hold until next year to make sure they will be financially able to retain the same high levels of quality.

Children get the gift of sight PUPILS with poor vision can enjoy a new outlook on life thanks to the Rotary Club and a big hearted optician.

On Wednesday, February 2, the Rotary Club of Providenciales and the North and Middle Caicos Rotary Community Corps completed an eye testing programme.

More than 50 pupils from Adelaide Oemler Primary School in Bottle Creek, Charles Hubert James Primary School in Kew and Doris Robinson School in Middle Caicos were given a thorough eye examination free of charge.

And it all happened with the support and assistance of Dr Julian Petrucci of Menzies Optometry.

Wilbert Forbes, president of the North and Middle Rotary Community Corps, said: “Vision issues are a key obstacle to better learning so we are happy to give all students who need this kind of assistance a hand in improving their school experience.

“Dr Julian has been a long time supporter of this Rotary programme

this week

 This Saturday take your sweetheart out for an evening of romantic music under the stars.

The latest fundraising event by the Turks and Caicos Friends of the Arts Foundation (TCFAF) will see a host of local artists taking to the stage at the exquisite Stargazer Villa.

Guests will be treated to champagne cocktails, culinary delights cooked up by talented island chefs and membership to the foundation.

The ‘Hopelessly Romantic’ event takes place from 7pm to 11pm and tickets cost $35 or $65 per couple.

Tickets are on sale at Unicorn Bookstore and Saltmills Diner from Saturday, January 29.  Shape those muscle groups you never knew you had during an early morning resistance training session at IGA Sports Centre.

The session begins at 8.30am and costs $12 for one or $100 for 11.  Mums and Tots Dance Party classes are held every Saturday at The Athletic Club in Saltmills Plaza for mothers and their little ones.

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

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

Call Shara Bowen on 244-1103 for more details.

EYE TEST: Dr Julian Petrucci of Menzies Optometry examines a pupil

and we are grateful that he could come to North and Middle this year.

Without his assistance it would not be possible.

“This type of cooperation is a great sign of the active community spirit that is alive and well in the TCI.”

Following the examinations 11 pupils were selected as candidates for corrective glasses, which the Rotary Club will provide for free.

The North and Middle Caicos programme builds on a similar programme that is run by the Rotary Club each year in Providenciales.

 Every Saturday from 11pm you can catch the Island Boys playing rake and scrape live at Calico Jacks.

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

Sunday, February 13  Visitors to Middle Caicos can enjoy

the breeze while whale watching right on the ocean shore at Daniel’s Café, Conch Bar, Middle Caicos.

During 2010, lunchtime whale sightings were a source of pleasure for many from January to March.

For more information contact Daniel’s Cafe on 232-6132, email middlecaicos@tciway.tc or visit www. middlecaicos.biz

Monday, February 14  Get rid of the Monday blues with an intense non-traditional aerobic routine with Anca Vasile.

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

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

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

For more information call 3317176.

Tuesday, February 15  Step it up this Tuesday evening with a fun fitness class at IGA Sports Centre.

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

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

Wednesday, February 16  Are you in need of inner peace?

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

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

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

Call 941-8686 for more details.

Thursday, February 17  Burn off your week’s excesses with an energetic kickboxing class at IGA Sports Centre.

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

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

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

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

For more details call Benneth at 246-0300 or email hls_com@yahoo. com

18

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 12 - 18, 2011

Lifestyle... fitness Tip 

Hoop it up Valentine pancakes with maple raspberry sauce MAKE breakfast special with these heart-shaped buttermilk pancakes topped with a sweet and easy to make raspberry maple sauce.

Ingredients: Pancakes: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour 3 tbsps sugar 2 tsps baking powder Half tsp baking soda Half tsp salt 1.5 buttermilk 1 large egg, lightly beaten 3 tbsps butter, melted Maple raspberry sauce: Three-quarter cup seedless red raspberry jam 3 tbsps maple syrup Method: • In a large bowl whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt to combine.

Make a well in the dry ingredient. In the well add the buttermilk, egg and butter.

Stir to moisten. It will not be smooth.

• Grease and heat griddle over medium low heat. For each pancake, pour a quarter cup of batter onto griddle. Cook for one to two minutes or until bubbles appear on the top of the pancakes.

• Turn and cook for one to two minutes more or until just cooked through. Repeat with remaining batter.

• With three-inch heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut pancakes into hearts.

• For sauce: In medium microwavable bowl, cook raspberry jam with maple syrup on high; stir to combine.

Continue to heat in 30-second intervals, stirring to combine, until raspberry jam is melted.

TO GET long and lean, think round.

This exercise trend is as old school as it gets – hula hooping – and it’s rapidly gaining devotees.

Larger, weighted hoops are ideal for giving you a good cardiovascular workout. Hooping also comes with a number of other benefits including: massaging your intestines and organs as it circles your waist; providing meditative time; getting your heart rate up; increasing your fitness level; increasing the flow of blood to the brain; boosting energy levels; improving coordination; strengthening torso muscles; and enhancing spinal flexibility.

Before you begin, be sure that you have purchased the right size hoop.

If you head out to a general store and buy one, most likely you’ll be getting a child-size hoop.

To make using the hoop fun and effective, it has to be the right size.

The general rule of thumb to follow is that when the hoop is resting on the ground, it should reach somewhere between stomach and chest height.

However, if you have an appleshaped body and a large waist, you’ll want to compensate for that as well.

The bigger the hoop, the slower it will rotate around your body and the easier it is to use. The smaller the

hoop, the more challenging it is.

Once you’ve purchased the right size hoop, it’s time to start the fun. If you used a hoop as a kid, it might not come back quite as easily as riding a bike but with a little practice you’ll get the hang of it.

Waist The key is to put one foot in front of the other instead of standing with your feet side-by-side. Start with the hoop against your back at your waist.

Give it a gentle push to start the rotation around your waist and shift your weight back and forth between your front and back foot to keep the hula hoop moving.

Don’t move your hips in a circle to keep it rotating because the opposite will happen. As you shift your weight back and forth, your hips make more of a rocking motion than a circular movement.

Keeping the hoop twirling around your waist is the most important of the hula hoop exercises. In fact, if you’re strictly using the hula hoop for exercise and don’t have a lot of time, this is the only exercise that’s needed.

It can be used anywhere and your waistline will really show

The smaller the hoop, the more challenging the workout.

improvement as the unwanted fat burns off the midriff and the stomach muscles tighten.

Arms To use the hula hoop to tone muscles in the arms, extend your arm to the side and roll the hoop around your arm in a circular motion. The idea is to keep the hoop moving around your arm. This exertion works to firm and melt body fat.

Legs You can do a similar exercise for the legs. To avoid losing your balance, lie on your back to work the legs. With

one leg perpendicular to the floor, or at a slight angle, start the hoop spinning around your extended leg and keep it spinning for one to two minutes.

Hips Stand in a standard position but instead of spinning the hoop around your waist, work it around your hips.

However, the standard around-thewaist position will help you lose off your hips too.

Hooping is old-fashioned, wholesome fun and it’s easy too.

It’s a great way to work out, burn a bunch of calories and tone all the muscles in the body.

health Tip 

Eat your reds – as well as your greens THIS is a very special plant which is rich in vitamins and very helpful for women, based on a document that I read and studied.

This plant sometimes is overlooked in the supermarket. Many times we go there and we see them – it’s called the ‘red acre cabbage’.

The question one might ask is: what benefits can our bodies receive from such a plant?

Red acre cabbage is very low in saturated fat and cholesterol. It is also a good source of thiamin, riboflavin, folate, calcium, iron and magnesium, and a very good source of dietary

By Phillip Simmons fibre, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, potassium and manganese.

How can it be used for medicinal purposes?

Here are some things I found out about the red acre cabbage. In European folk medicine, cabbage continued 

Red cabbage may help ward off cancer.

February 12 - 18, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

19

Lifestyle...

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

GARDENING 

Money Tip

NATURE SPLENDOR

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

Weeds in landscaping stone YOU’VE dug out all the grass, put down a black mat, planted your shrubs, then covered with a layer of beautiful landscape stone. There! Weeds all taken care of, right? Nope!

The problem with landscape stone is that there are spaces in between the stones where dust deposits itself and collects. Providenciales is a very dusty place.

Now imagine that layer of dust being deposited into your landscape stone beds on a daily basis and you’ll see why weeds will eventually pop up there.

While weeds won’t generally come up through landscape cloth and stone, they will grow down through the landscape cloth. Once that happens, they are almost impossible to pull out in one piece.

It’s best, if you are a weed pulling

Eat your reds...

gardener, to pull the weeds from the landscape stone when they are small.

Even then, it may be hard to get the root of the weed.

The best way of killing weeds in landscape stone is with commercial herbicide spray.

But first, and most important, mix the herbicide according to label directions for the toughest type of weeds you have.

Don’t double it up thinking it will work better. It won’t, and it may damage surrounding shrubbery.

Second, don’t spray in beds with flowering shrubs. No matter how you try, some will drift and you’ll get damage. Plus, if the weed’s roots are mixed up with the flower’s roots, it may kill them both. Commercial herbicide spray is designed for use in open areas, or in beds with established shrubs.

Third, shield your plants from the herbicide spray. You can use a large piece of cardboard, held between

The best way to kill weeds in landscape stone is with commercial herbicide spray.

where you are spraying and the shrub.

Don’t panic if you get a little spray on the plant. You may get some leaf burn but it’s extremely hard to kill a shrub with one of these chemicals, unless you pour a bottle of it around the roots. Still, you don’t want leaf damage, so try not to get any overspray onto your shrubbery.

If you’re into organic gardening or just want a chemical free alternative herbicide, then you can try full strength apple cider vinegar. The vinegar you buy in the grocery is five per cent but you can order 10 per cent especially for weed killing.

Don’t kick yourself. There is absolutely no way to keep weeds out of TCI garden beds, no matter whether you use landscape rock or natural mulch. So just do the best you can and deal with the rest.

continued 

leaves are used to treat acute inflammation.

A paste of raw cabbage may be placed in a cabbage leaf and wrapped around the infected area to reduce discomfort.

Some claim it is effective in relieving painfully engorged breasts in breast-feeding women.

Red vegetables are low in calories and believed to play an important role in preventing cancer.

Research suggests that the benefits of red cabbage, and red beets too, come from the phytochemicals they contain.

These compounds are thought to have a role in the activation, and stabilisation, of the detoxification and antioxidant processes of the human body.

Other nutrients present in red beet and cabbage are flavonoids which give the deep red colours of these vegetables. That is why it is best to buy the deepest red samples you can.

It is the flavonoids, alongside the vitamin C, which give both red cabbage and red beets their powerful antioxidant health benefits.

They are two of the best sources of flavonoids so should be treasured as you enjoy every mouthful.

Get crafty

MAKE your own Valentine’s Day card this year out of recycled paper if you’re the kind of person who likes to get crafty.

If that’s not your thing, consider sending an e-card to save materials.

Valentine’s Day isn’t about expensive gifts. Show the one you love how much you care by getting creative.

Impress your loved one on Valentine’s Day – and save cash LOOKING for the perfect gift to show you love someone but strapped for cash? Don’t worry.

Valentine’s Day is the best opportunity to give cheap, yet thoughtful and unique gifts.

You really can get away with making the gifts yourself, as it’s all further proof that you really love and care enough to put in the effort!

Here are a few ideas: Make a mix CD: put together a collection of songs that mean something to you as a couple or that remind you of your partner.

Give the gift of time: spend your time doing something nice for your partner, such as cleaning the home, making dinner, giving them a massage or a foot rub.

Give a photograph: pick your favourite snap of the two of you together and choose an elegant picture frame to show it off in.

Candy basket: choose a nice basket and fill it with all their favourite candy. There’s no need to spend extra money on expensive Valentine candy: buying what you know they love will be far more meaningful.

Scrapbook: putting together a scrapbook documenting your relationship so far is a cheap yet extremely romantic cheap Valentine’s Day idea.

Aside from the gift, the main Valentine’s Day expense is

usually the date. Many people choose to go out for a fancy meal but this just isn’t an option for some of us.

You can however create the perfect romantic atmosphere within your home.

Cooking a meal for your loved one is the first option when it comes to cheap Valentine’s Day ideas for dates. Think about their favourite meal and put together three courses of pure food heaven.

This in itself may be a surprise if you don’t cook often. You could even put together a picnic basket and go and eat somewhere in your local area.

Now think about the setting.

You could decorate your home with candles and Valentine decorations, and buy some nice wine to help set the scene.

Other ideas include surprising them with breakfast in bed in the morning, spending time together during the day visiting free attractions, going for a long romantic walk, pampering your loved one with a massage or having a romantic movie night.

Valentine’s Day is really about being creative. Don’t worry if you haven’t got the money to spend – your loved one will appreciate a thoughtful gift far more than generic Valentine’s Day products.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

February 12 - 18, 2011 FAX: (649) 946-4661

C & J EMPLOYMENT

CRYSTAL POOL SERVICES Is looking for a

Pool Attendant • Must have knowledge about swimming pool and equipment • Must work Monday thru Friday 8am – 4pm • Salary commensurate with experience

Is looking for the following persons on behalf of our clients: Kenneth Brown Construction, Benson E. Rigby, and C & J Variety Store, Radica Been

5 Domestic

– Workers $5.00 per hour

Contact 231-1923 or 345-9986

3 –Laborers $5.00 per hour

Contact 941-8283

VENICE GRAY Is looking for a

Domestic

Worker

Labourer is needed

To do regular yard cleaning. Must be able to work 5 days per week. Salary $5.00.

To work MondaysFridays. Salary 5.50 per hour.

Contact 243-9961 6511

Contact 341-6828

6520

Career Opportunities Grace Bay Resorts Management, Ltd is looking for candidates that have most of the requirements listed along with an outgoing professional manner. Their leadership style balances a commitment to people and their development with business/ financial accountability and delivers a consistently exceptional guest experience.

Chief Financial Officer The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) oversees all aspects and teams at Grace Bay Club and The Veranda Resort for Accounting, Strata, and Information Technology. The CFO is responsible for relationships with banks and investors, special projects, and business development. The CFO reports directly to the Board.

Requirements: • Oversee Accounting team, IT team and strata accounting for both resorts.

• Ensure accuracy of financial reports to investors and lenders.

• Implement and monitor strategic objectives.

Actively seek profitability improvements.

• MBA or equivalent degree.

• Previous relationships with major lending institutions and Real Estate Private Equity funds • Previous experience in investment banking, strategic consulting and/or private equity.

• Previous experience in real estate development and hospitality • Fluency in English. Other languages a plus. Willingness to work long hours when needed.

Salary Range: Commensurate based on qualification and experience

Interested persons can contact our Human Resources Department no later than February 18, 2011 @ (649) 946-5050 Ext. 1050 Email: veronica.clare@gracebayclub.com Fax: (649) 946-5758 P.O. Box 128 Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, British West Indies

GRAND TURK CRUISE CENTER The Grand Turk Cruise Center is in immediate need of a qualified

Accounting Manager to take charge of the Accounting/Finance functions at its facility in Grand Turk.

The ideal candidate must meet the following requirements: • A minimum of five years work experience in the cruise industry in a multinational corporation, including actual shipboard finance and accounting experience • Experience in ship revenue and cost accounting • Experience with ship/cruise/tour related audits and internal controls • Work experience with an affiliate of Carnival Corporation & Plc • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in accounting • Ability to work independently and a willingness to work extended hours including weekends and public holidays • Strong organizational skills and ability to meet tight month-end deadlines • Ability to liaison with Government and related agencies, the Cruise Lines and tenants • Ability to oversee the overall operation and administration of the Grand Turk Cruise Center employment records • Strict adherence to confidentially required. Trustworthiness will be a requirement of this position • Excellent work references and a stable employment record • Very good communication skills both verbal and written • Proficient in Oracle • Multi-lingual a plus • Must live full-time in Grand Turk In return, GTCC offers a competitive remuneration package. Applicants should send a cover letter and resume to:

Grand Turk Cruise Center P.O. Box 77, Grand Turk Turks and Caicos Islands, B.W.I. Attention: General Manager Phone: (649)-946-1040. Fax: (649)-946-1041

BLUE HILLS CONSTRUCTION

C & J EMPLOYMENT

Is looking for the following persons on behalf of our clients: Charles Barber Shop, Williams Construction

Is looking for a

Labourer To work 6 days per week salary $5.00 per hour.

FAX: (649) 946-4661

Labourer 6490

– $5.00 per hour

Is seeking to employ an

Assistant Floor Manager

Barmaid Is looking for a

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

Open Water Scuba Diving Instructor/ 2nd Captain

Mechanic To work 5 days

6491

Send resume to P.O. Box 954

VIRGIL’S VIP LAND/ SEA ADVENTUROUS

Is looking for an experienced

Requirements as follows: • MCA offshore 200 tons license • Valid Padi/ SSI/ Naui Scuba Diving Instructor membership & liability insurance • PADI/SSI Enriched Air Instructor

• Minimum of 5 speciality ratings • Working knowledge of underwater camera systems • Computer literate • STCW95 compliant • Be prepared to live onboard & working long hours including weekends and holidays

Starting salary $400 a week Belonger need only apply

Please send resumes to tcaggressor@express.tc

POSITION AVAILABLE AT SPA

SPA – SKINCARE TECHNICIAN & MASSAGE THERAPIST

Is looking for a

Line Cook

• Minimum of 3 years in Food and Beverage Industry • Interposals Skills, ability to maintain calm under pressure • Must be able to work with a flexible schedule • Must possess a pleasant personality, must be a quick thinker.

• Salary is negotiable

TURKS & CAICOS AGGRESSOR II

Is looking for a

per week. Salary $300 - $350.

WALLEYE CORP.

in service and maintain accurate counts for inventory.

Please no phone call, send all resume to: Sunny Reef Ltd, Po Box 811, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Island B.W.I

Contact 941-8283 JV’S TRUCKING

SUPER D RESTAURANT

Contact 231-3687

SUNNY REEF LTD. To assist in running the daily operation on a busy restaurant. @@ Qualified persons must be able to co-ordinate roles between persons to ensure work is run smoothly. @@ Ensure that events go according to plan and the working environment is safe to work. @@ Project the best in customer service through the restaurant and operation must be efficiently, so that no inventoried item is waste

Barber – $5.00 per hour

Contact: 332-7778

A Spa is seeking to employ a certified spa & skincare technician/massage therapist.

The spa offers an array of treatments, such as:

To work 5 days per week. Salary commensurate with experience.

Labourer

To clean vehicles boats and premises.

Salary $5.50 per hour.

6471

Contact 441-3466

Sheet Rock

Labourer

Contact 231-6060 6503

STANLEY STAR CONSTRUCTION Is looking for a

Salary $6.50 per hour. Must be able to work 4 days per week.

• Permanent hair reduction (IPL) • Fast waxing, including Brazilian waxing, using hard & soft wax • Photo-rejouvenation with E-Light • Chemical peels • Organic facials

• Oxygen facials • Micro-dermabrasion • Skin analysis • Lash & brow tinting • Lash extensions • Manicure & Pedicure • Wedding & special occasion

Job Requirements: • Candidate must have a current aesthetician (Cidesco Certification) and/or cosmetology license (Cidesco Certification is a plus), manicure license and massage certificate (CMT Certification) • Candidate must have at least 10 years experience in the industry • Candidate must posses a thorough knowledge of cosmetics, skincare products and related application procedures in order to boost retail sales of products

• Candidate must be able to perform all of the above listed treatments • Candidate must be able to perform cosmetic consultations and educate clients on skin care products as well as provide customized treatment plans and skincare regiments • Candidate must be able to forge new client relationships and ensure client retention through excellence • Candidate must be able to stand on his/her feet and/or sit for a prolonged period of

make-up applications • Body treatments • Swedish massage • Hot stone massage • Shiatsu • And more….. time and must be prepared to work irregular hours (including evenings) holidays and weekends • Candidate must have means of transportation at all times • Candidate must regularly attend educational training seminars in order to stay up-to-date on new products, equipment and treatments • Candidate must have excellent organizational skills and possess excellent verbal and written communication skills in English, Spanish and French

BELONGERS ONLY NEED APPLY

6488

To work 3 days per week.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

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

Contact 231-0308

6460

Domestic Worker Contact 649-242-4548

21

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

6486

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

6489

February 12 - 18, 2011

Job applications, resumes, references and copies of certificate should be emailed to info@karammissick.com before February 25th, 2011

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! the largest readership in the turks & caicos

22

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 12 - 18, 2011

NATIONAL

Host a fun Valentine’s Day party for kids VALENTINE’S Day is often a time for adult couples to show their affection. But Valentine’s Day is a fun time for kids, too.

Kids often enjoy handing out and receiving Valentine’s Day cards, and parents often enjoy seeing their kids’ crushes.

Another Valentine’s Day tradition kids enjoy is the annual Valentine’s Day party.

Parents hosting the party this year can make the most of their holiday party with the following tips:

Let kids make the invitations.

Kids will get a kick out of making Valentine’s Day invitations for all their friends.

Tools of the trade include construction paper, glitter, stickers, and any other accessories kids might feel are necessary.

Parents who want to go the extra mile can take their kids around the neighborhood to hand deliver the invitations to their friends.

Go big with balloons. No kids party is complete without balloons, and a

Valentine’s Day party should include pink, red and white balloons.

If time permits, create an archway of balloons at the front door or tie balloons to the mailbox so other parents know where to drop the kids off.

Don’t forget the candy and cupcakes. Kids might have ulterior motives for enjoying Valentine’s Day that go beyond giving and receiving valentines.

Candy and cupcakes are as much a part of Valentine’s Day for kids as they are for adults.

Chocolate and cupcakes are favourites for kids and adults alike on Valentine’s Day, so be sure to have some on hand for the party.

Host a few Valentine’s themed games.

Instead of standard fare like ‘Pin the Tail On the Donkey,’ spice things up for Valentine’s Day with a few games with a Valentine’s Day theme.

If the weather permits, host a Valentine’s scavenger hunt in the backyard. Include prizes like Valentine’s stickers and, of course, chocolate.

If the weather is too cold for a scavenger hunt, plan other activities that can be done indoors.

This can include some dancing to kids’ favourite music or even letting kids decorate the house themselves with Valentine’s themed decorations they made at the party.

Accessorise. For the party, purchase heart-shaped plates and red, pink or white utensils for the kids to eat with.

For dessert, serve up a heartshaped chocolate cake

February 12 - 18, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS NATIONAL

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Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Aristide lawyer gets exleader’s Haiti passport PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) — Haiti has issued a diplomatic passport for ousted President JeanBertrand Aristide and his American lawyer said he picked it up Tuesday from government authorities.

Aristide’s Miami attorney, Ira Kurzban, did not disclose when Aristide might come back to Haiti.

He recently said he asked Haiti to establish a security plan for Aristide in accordance with a law requiring the government to provide security for former presidents.

Kurzban confirmed he was given the ousted leader’s diplomatic passport during a brief stopover in Haiti’s capital.

“Yes, I have it,” he said during a quick phone interview while his evening flight back to Miami was on the tarmac in Port-au-Prince’s international airport.

Earlier in the day, Interior Minister Paul-Antoine Bien-Aime told The Associated Press that Aristide recently submitted a valid passport application and it was quickly approved. When asked when Aristide might return, Bien-Aime shrugged his shoulders and said he had no clue.

Aristide, a former priest and Haiti’s first democratically elected president, was ousted in a violent rebellion in 2004 and left the country aboard a U.S. plane. He lives in exile in South Africa but remains popular among many back home as a champion of the poor.

Speculation that he might come back to Haiti soared after ex-dictator Jean-Claude “Baby Doc” Duvalier stepped off an Air France jet in January, making a shocking return from nearly 25 years of exile. In recent days, rumors of Aristide’s return have been repeatedly fanned in Haitian media reports and social media postings.

Haitian officials have long said the lack of a valid passport is the main obstacle to Aristide’s return.

Officials say he would not need a passport to re-enter the country, but might need one to pass through other nations on the way.

JAMAICA:

Car hits, kills Kentucky tourist, injures companion KINGSTON, Jamaica (AP) — Authorities in Jamaica say a car has hit and killed a tourist from Kentucky and injured his girlfriend as they were walking in the resort area of Negril.

Police say Saturday that 57year-old Roy Anthony Stout

was pronounced dead at a hospital Friday night and that the unidentified woman is in critical condition.

They said the driver has been detained and is being interviewed.

Police did not know Stout’s hometown.

PUERTO RICO:

Man accused of setting family on fire found fit to stand trial

A demonstrator holds up a picture of ousted Haitian President Jean-Bertrand Aristide during a protest against Haiti’s President Rene Preval in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Monday Feb. 7, 2011.

Last month, Aristide, in one of the rare statements that he has been allowed to issue during his nearly seven-year exile, said he was ready to return “today, tomorrow, at any time.”

Aristide’s return has been a principal demand of his Fanmi Lavalas party, which electoral officials have barred from participating in recent elections — including last November’s presidential vote.

Following a dispute over the results of the presidential vote, Haiti recently scheduled a delayed runoff for March 20 to pick a successor to President Rene Preval.

Aristide could not participate in the runoff as a candidate, and has said he does not want to. He said he wishes to help his earthquakeravaged Caribbean homeland as an educator.

Preval’s chief of staff announced Monday that he would stay in office an extra three months while his successor was chosen and leave office May 14.

The head of Lavalas’ executive council, Maryse Narcisse, welcomed the news that Aristide’s passport was issued.

“For us it is important. For the people of Haiti, it is a symbol of the

democratic fight. The people want him to return to provide assistance in the field of education,” Narcisse said.

She also declined to speculate on when Aristide might return.

“He himself said he is ready and is willing to return today, tomorrow, whenever,” Narcisse said. “I can only say that we would like him to be here soon.”

Preval, who was prime minister under Aristide, was overwhelmingly elected president in 2006 with strong backing from the Lavalas party. But many of Aristide’s supporters now consider Preval and others in his party traitors for failing to return the exiled Aristide to Haiti.

Preval has said for years that Haitian law allows Aristide to return but always stopped short of saying whether he would welcome back his former political mentor and the issuing of the passport was seen as a significant reversal.

Washington has repeatedly warned that any return by Aristide would destabilise Haiti.

Aristide and his supporters accuse the United States of kidnapping him and flying him to Africa amid the 2004 revolt — a charge Washington denies.

Bomber names ex-CIA operative in Cuba attacks HAVANA (AP) — A Salvadoran man jailed in Cuba in connection with a string of 1990s hotel bombings says he told a U.S. prosecutor that he got explosives and money directly from a former CIA operative now on trial in Texas, and that he is willing to testify against him.

Otto Rene Rodriguez told The Associated Press in an exclusive interview Tuesday that he received powerful C-4 explosives and $2,000 in cash directly from Luis Posada Carriles to carry out an Aug. 3, 1997,

February 12 - 18, 2011

bombing at Havana’s Melia Cohiba hotel. He was captured trying to enter the country on a subsequent trip with 1.5 kilograms (3.3 pounds) of C-4 that Posada had given him, he said.

“Truthfully, looking me in the eyes he cannot say he doesn’t know me,” Rodriguez said. “He does know me. He used me like a tool.”

Posada, 82, is not on trial directly for the bombing campaign — but rather for allegedly lying about his involvement to federal authorities during immigration hearings after he

sneaked into the U.S. in March 2005.

Cuba’s decision to make Rodriguez and another confessed bomber, Ernesto Cruz Leon, available for the AP interview was part of an effort to show its willingness to help in the U.S. case against the Cuba-born Posada, who is considered Public Enemy No. 1 on his native island.

The interviews were conducted one-after-another at a spacious government house in a residential neighbourhood of Havana with Cuban officials present.

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — Prosecutors in Puerto Rico say a judge has ruled that a man accused of setting his family on fire on New Year’s Day is mentally fit to stand trial.

A statement from the U.S. island’s justice department Tuesday also says that Justino Sanchez Diaz has been charged with a sixth count of murder.

That charge stems from the death of a hospitalised victim Jan. 29.

Also among the dead are the suspect’s elderly mother, a nephew and the nephew’s fiance from Seattle.

Police allege Sanchez doused family members with gasoline when they sat down for dinner and set them on fire.

It is unclear if Sanchez has entered a plea in the case. Defense attorney Luis Gonzalez did not return calls for comment.

GUYANA:

Caricom anticipates travel cuts, staff layoffs as it prepares to reduce budget GEORGETOWN, Guyana (AP) — A 15-member Caribbean trade bloc is considering layoffs and travel cuts to reduce a budget that already has been frozen for three years.

Guyana-based Caricom has been operating on a roughly $18 million budget since 2008. Trade Chief Irwin LaRocque said Saturday that more cuts are needed because members have not been meeting their annual contributions.

Ministers failed to agree on a 2011 budget in December. They are scheduled to meet again in late February.

Caricom expects to cut back on travel this year by relying on video conferencing for the more than 100 meetings scheduled annually in the region. Several of Caricom’s more than 200 staffers also will be dismissed, but LaRocque declined to provide details.

Bahamian PM says no stopping sale of BTC THERE is no stopping the BTC deal, Bahamian Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham told the House of Assembly this week.

A few hours after the government concluded its agreement to sell 51 per cent of its shares in the Bahamas Telecommunications Company to Cable and Wireless, Mr Ingraham told Parliament the company’s employees should try to adjust to this new reality as soon as possible.

He said: “The sale is proceeding.

We want to ensure employees benefit from the sale. We want employees to use every opportunity they have to engage with new bosses who are going to be there. It is not possible to stop it.”

The transaction, worth $210 million, plus $7 million in stamp tax, is still subject to parliamentary and regulatory approvals which are expected to be concluded by April 4.

Mr Ingraham said: “We should not delay progress in this area any further. The duly elected government of the Bahamas is satisfied this is the best transaction for the Bahamas. The democratically-elected government of the Bahamas is fully satisfied this is the best transaction for the Bahamas. We will not be derailed by any minority group in the society.”

Signing the deal on behalf of the government earlier this week was the Treasurer, Eugene Cartwright. (The Tribune)

February 12 - 18, 2011

Regional News

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

29

Black History Month – Benjamin Banneker FEBRUARY 2011 is Black History Month and in celebration the Weekly News will be bringing you the story of a lesser known black icon each week.

BENJAMIN Banneker was born in 1731 just outside of Baltimore, Maryland, the son of a slave.

His grandfather had been a member of a royal family in Africa and was wise in agricultural endeavours.

His father, Robert, was an African slave who purchased his freedom and his mother, Mary, was the daughter of a freed African slave and an English woman.

As a young man, he was allowed to enrol in a school run by Quakers and excelled in his studies, particularly in mathematics.

Soon, he had progressed beyond the capabilities of his teacher and would often make up his own math problems in order to solve them.

One day his family was introduced to a man named Josef Levi who owned a watch.

Young Benjamin was so fascinated by the object that Mr Levi gave it

to him to keep, explaining how it worked.

Over the course of the next few days, Benjamin repeatedly took the watch apart and then put it back together.

After borrowing a book on geometry and another on Isaac Newton’s Principia (laws of motion) he made plans to build a larger version of the watch, mimicking a picture he had seen of a clock.

After two years of designing the clock and carving each piece by hand, including the gears, Banneker had successfully created the first clock ever built in the United States.

For the next 30 years, the clock kept perfect time.

In 1776, the Third Continental Congress met and submitted the Declaration of Independence from England.

Soon thereafter, the Revolutionary War broke out and Banneker set out to grow crops of wheat in order to help feed American troops.

His knowledge of soil gained from his grandfather allowed him to raise

Tourists find new petroglyph in USVI National Park CHARLOTTE AMALIE, U.S. Virgin Islands (AP) — Archaeologists say two participants in a petroglyph seminar at the U.S. Virgin Islands National Park have come across the first newly discovered rock carving there since the 1970s.

The carving looks like a spearhead or an elongated leaf. Park archaeologist Ken Wild says the design is different from others on St. John island. “It’s the type that’s seen

in Venezuela or St. Lucia” across the Caribbean.

Rock carvings dot the island and the park’s website says they were probably carved by the Indian cultures that lived on the island from about 840 B.C. until the arrival of Europeans brought disease and subjugation that exterminated the native peoples.

Wild said Friday that the petroglyph was found last month.

Venezuela:

48 homicides for every 100,000 people CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — Venezuelan authorities say they recorded 48 homicides for every 100,000 inhabitants last year, making it one of the most dangerous places in South America.

Justice Minister Tarek El Aissami didn’t report the actual number of slayings during a debate in the National Assembly on Tuesday. But he said the average was above the norm for the region, and called it “a very high rate.”

A report for the United Nations last year put the homicide rate for South America as a whole around 20 per 100,000 people.

President Hugo Chavez’s government has not released comprehensive statistics for five years, but officials said previously there were more than 12,000 murders in the first 11 months of 2010.

Venezuela has a population of 28 million.

crops in areas which had previously stood barren for years.

When a family friend died and left him a book on astronomy, a telescope and other scientific inventions, Banneker became fascinated with the stars and the skies.

His friends Joseph and Joseph Ellicott loaned him books on astronomy as well as other tools and he taught himself astronomy and mathematics.

He soon was able to predict events

such as solar eclipses and sunrises and sunsets.

In 1792, he developed his first almanac, predicting weather and seasonal changes and also included tips on planting crops and medical remedies.

Banneker sent a copy of his book to Thomas Jefferson, at that time the Secretary of State, and in a 12-page letter expressed to Jefferson that blacks in the United States possessed equal intellectual capacity and mental capabilities as those whites who were described in the Declaration of Independence.

As such, he stated, blacks should also be afforded the same rights and opportunities afforded to whites.

This began a long correspondence between the two men that would extend over several years.

Around the same time, President Washington decided to move the nation’s capital from Philadelphia to an area on the border of Maryland and Virginia and Major Andrew Ellicott asked Banneker to assist in surveying the ‘Federal Territory’.

Major Pierre L’Enfant from France was commissioned to develop the plans for the new city and, at Jefferson’s request, Banneker was included as one of the men appointed

Puero Rico tries retail lottery to boost taxes

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) — Don’t throw out that lunch receipt: It could be worth $1,000.

That’s the idea behind a campaign to force Puerto Rico’s many tiny markets, food stalls and other mom-and-pop businesses to collect sales tax.

Puerto Rico’s Treasury Department is transforming receipts into lottery tickets, printing contest numbers on each receipt and holding weekly drawings for cash prizes ranging from $100 to $1,000. It also plans to have a monthly drawing for a car.

A pilot programme started in December in the southern city of Ponce and will be expanded island-wide in July.

The government wants prize-hungry consumers to demand receipts, discouraging businesses from dodging the 7 percent sales tax by making unrecorded cash sales.

Theoretically, the idea should be a winner on an island where lotteries are popular, but initial results aren’t very encouraging: Eight winning tickets have been drawn so far and not a single consumer has come forward to claim a prize. Winners have up to 30 days to collect, and some receipts have already expired.

“It’s a challenge,” concedes Jose Carlos Colon de Jesus, a special assistant in the Treasury Department. “We have to change the mentality of the Puerto Rican so they demand their receipt.”

The government plans a media blitz to promote the program, adding to heavy coverage by local newspapers, TV and radio. So far, though, it’s been to little avail in Ponce, Puerto Rico’s second largest city with nearly 200,000 people.

to assist him.

Banneker consulted frequently with L’Enfant and studied his draft and plans for the capital city carefully.

L’Enfant was subject to great criticism and hostility because he was a foreigner and abruptly resigned from the project and moved back to France.

As the remaining members of the team gathered, they began debating as to how they should start from scratch.

Banneker surprised them when he asserted that he could reproduce the plans from memory and in two days did exactly as he had promised.

The plans he drew were the basis for the layout of streets, buildings and monuments that exist to this day in Washington DC. Benjamin Banneker died quietly on October 25 1806, lying in a field looking at the stars through his telescope.

Nations around the world mourned his passing, viewing him as a genius and the United States’ first great black inventor.

In 1980 the US Postal Service issued a postage stamp in his honour.

Officials confirm three cases of cholera in NYC from DR wedding NEW YORK (AP) — New York City officials have confirmed that three New Yorkers contracted cholera while in the Dominican Republic for a wedding.

The Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, where thousands have died from the disease.

A medical epidemiologist for the city Department of Health and Mental Hygiene told The New York Times on Saturday that all three people who were infected last month have recovered.

Dr. Sharon Balter says the city typically sees an average of one cholera case per year.

City health officials are now working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta to determine whether the current strain is similar to the one that has been raging in Haiti since October.

Three cholera deaths have been reported in the Dominican Republic.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

UK strikes deal with banks over bonuses, lending LONDON (AP) — The British government has struck a deal with the country’s top banks to curb bonus payments and boost lending to businesses as it seeks to draw a line under a crisis that culminated in a multibillion pound state bailout of the sector.

Treasury chief George Osborne said Wednesday the top four banks have made a commitment to lend about 190 billion pounds ($305 billion) to businesses this year — up from 175 billion pounds previously — to support the faltering domestic economy.

The “Big Four” — Barclays, HSBC and part-nationalised lenders Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds — have also agreed to pay lower bonuses for 2010 than they doled out in 2009 and to provide more disclosure on senior executives’ pay.

The deal follows a public outcry about the banks’ role in the financial crisis, including past large bonus payouts and ongoing criticism that they are now hampering Britain’s

economic recovery by failing to lend to businesses.

It comes a day after Osborne hit the sector with an extra 800 million pounds in taxes, raising the government’s bank levy to 2.5 billion pounds from 1.7 billion pounds.

But the Treasury chief struck a conciliatory tone as he outlined details of the government’s so-called Project Merlin, perhaps heeding warnings from banks that excessive government interference would harm Britain’s position as a global financial centre.

“Anger and retribution will not bring one percentage point of economic growth or create one single new job,” Osborne told lawmakers in the House of Commons.

“The anger will remain. And we must never make the same mistakes again,” he said. “But Britain needs to move from retribution to recovery.”

However, the deal did not appear to include any enforcement measures or penalties should the banks fail to follow through on their commitments

and some critics said the 190 billion pound figure was essentially meaningless.

Banks have repeatedly argued that they have lent as much as demand requires and that they should be drawn into potentially risky relationships to fulfill a quota.

Ed Balls, the opposition Labour Party’s treasury spokesman, said the deal was “vague, toothless and unenforceable.”

Brendan Barber, the general secretary of the Trades Union Congress, which represents some 6 million workers, said the agreement “failed to live up to its low expectations.”

“Banks will only act against their own commercial instincts if there is a credible threat,” Barber said.

London’s finance houses paid out some 11.5 billion pounds in bonuses, most of it in cash, four years ago.

The new deal did not put a figure on the restrictions, apart from a limit of 2,000 pounds in upfront cash bonuses at part-government controlled RBS and Lloyds.

Heart disease prime cause of death in South Asia Heart disease has become the top killer in South Asia, and people are likely to suffer heart attacks earlier in life than in the rest of the world, a World Bank report said Wednesday.

It said chronic illnesses such as heart problems, cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure have now replaced infectious diseases as the region’s largest health problem.

Life expectancy in the region is currently 64 and is rising, thanks to poverty reduction. But many South Asians will face health challenges in their twilight years because of the cost of chronic disease treatment and the long-term impact of impoverished childhoods when they did not have enough to eat, according to the report on tackling no communicable diseases in the region.

“Gestational and childhood undernutrition rates are very high in South Asia, increasing the susceptibility to heart disease/diabetes at older ages,” Dr. Michael Engelgau, co-author of the report, said in an e-mail.

He said it’s not entirely understood why South Asians face heart attacks earlier in life — whether genetics or environmental factors play the bigger role. But the World Bank highlighted a separate 2008 study that compared

52 countries worldwide, finding that people in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka are likely to experience their first heart attack at age 53, versus 59 elsewhere in the world.

Engelgau said part of the problem hinges on differing lifestyles. South Asian diets are typically high in cholesterol and salt and contain fewer vegetables, especially in urban areas. People tend to have higher blood pressure and have become more inactive, resulting in obesity.

Heart disease, the No. 1 killer of South Asians aged 15-69, has long been a problem in developed Western countries where fatty, sugary diets are combined with a lack of exercise.

It is the leading killer of both men and women in the USA, where someone dies roughly every minute from a heart attack, according to the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

“It took almost 200 years for the U.S. and the U.K. to reach this high state of cardiac disease, which we are reaching in 40 or 50 years or so because of the rapid economic transition that’s occurring, and all the other changes that are happening within one’s life span,” said Dorairaj

Prabhakaran, director of the Centre for Chronic Disease Control, a nonprofit research organisation in India.

But South Asia also is home to the world’s largest number of poor people, with more than 1 billion — some twothirds of the population — living on less than $2 a day. And while chronic ailments are now the region’s largest health problem, infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and malaria, along with deaths linked to maternal, child and nutrition, remain a dual problem in many countries.

Chronic diseases are more expensive to treat and can drag on for years, which many developing countries with poor health systems are ill-equipped to handle. Patients often pay for treatment out of their own pockets, driving already-poor families into extreme poverty.

The report called on countries in the region — Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka — to step up preventative measures such as promoting antitobacco campaigns, lowering salt intake and providing better access to generic medications that lower blood pressure and cholesterol.

February 12 - 18, 2011

Berlusconi: Sex trial aims to discredit my govt MILAN (AP) — Italian prosecutors demanded Wednesday that Premier Silvio Berlusconi be put on immediate trial over accusations he paid for sex with a 17-year-old Moroccan girl and used his influence to try to cover it up. The Italian leader blasted the “disgusting” action, saying it aimed to topple his government.

The prosecutors, who filed their request in Milan, are seeking a trial now because they believe there is overwhelming evidence against the 74-year-old leader.

A judge must decide whether to accept the prosecutors’ request and indict Berlusconi, or dismiss it. The decision is expected to be made in the next two weeks.

Berlusconi has a long history of legal woes and fierce battles with the Italian judiciary, which he accuses of being politically motivated against him. But this is the first judicial action that targets his private life and not his business dealings as a media mogul, raising new questions over how long he can hold on to power.

The case centres on his relationship with the Moroccan nightclub dancer nicknamed Ruby. Italian newspapers have been filled for weeks with salacious details about Berlusconi’s parties at his villas, based on wiretaps of conversations between women who attended them.

“It’s shameful, really,” Berlusconi told reporters Wednesday in Rome, criticising the prosecutors’ move.

“It’s shameful and disgusting.”

“I wonder who’s going to pay for these activities that, in my humble view, only have a subversive aim,” Berlusconi added, lamenting that the case had “offended the dignity of the country.”

In Milan, dozens of his supporters rallied against the prosecution’s decision, some waving Italian flags across the street from the courthouse.

Italian premier Silvio Berlusconi reacts during a press conference following a cabinet meeting at Rome’s Chigi palace, Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2011.

The prosecutors allege that Berlusconi paid for sex with Ruby, who has since turned 18, then used his influence to get her out of police custody when she was detained for the suspected theft of €3,000 ($4,103), allegedly fearing her relationship to him would be revealed.

Ruby ultimately was released into the custody of a Berlusconi aide who also is under investigation.

Paying for sex with a prostitute is not a crime in Italy, but it is if the prostitute is younger than 18.

The child prostitution charge carries a possible prison sentence of six months to three years; the abuse of influence charge, which experts say is more dangerous for Berlusconi, carries a possible sentence of four to 12 years.

Both Ruby and Berlusconi have denied a sexual relation.

Somali pirates capture supertanker, $150M of oil

NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Somali pirates captured a Greek-flagged supertanker carrying an estimated $150 million worth of oil to the Gulf of Mexico on Wednesday, the second successful attack against an oil tanker by sea bandits in two days, officials said.

Such vessels can command higher ransoms because of the value of the crude on board. Owners of the oil may want to resolve hostage situations quickly, particularly if oil prices are dropping, a situation that can cost owners millions of dollars more than the pirate ransom will.

Still, ransom prices are on the rise. One last year reached $9.5

million, and the increasing prizes have provided even more incentive for pirates to launch attacks despite stepped-up patrols by an international flotilla of warships.

Pirates currently hold 29 ships and roughly 660 hostages.

The Irene SL was sailing 200 nautical miles (360 kilometers) east of Oman with a cargo of 266,000 tons of crude oil and a crew of seven Greeks, 17 Filipinos and one Georgian when it was attacked, the ministry said. The Associated Press estimated the value of the oil at more than $150 million, based on the amount being carried and a price of $87 a barrel.

February 12 - 18, 2011

World News

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31

Pakistani ministers China prepares for ‘severe, resign in cost-cutting long-lasting drought’

ISLAMABAD (AP) — Pakistan’s prime minister dissolved his 50-plus member Cabinet on Wednesday in order to replace it with a smaller group in response to demands for greater financial savings in the economically struggling country.

The dissolution of the Cabinet, which included a mass resignation by ministers, is a concession to opposition leaders. The government seeks their support to pass broad economic reforms insisted upon by international lenders whose billions are keeping Pakistan afloat.

“The prime minister has dissolved the cabinet after receiving resignations from the ministers, and it has been done to further reduce the size of the Cabinet,” said Farahnaz Ispahani, spokeswoman for the ruling Pakistan People’s Party. She added that the move aims for “fiscal austerity.”

Pakistan’s economy relies heavily on loans from the International Monetary Fund and the government has struggled to raise revenues, in part because many residents avoid paying taxes. Chronic power shortages have hampered economic growth and floods last year caused massive damage to infrastructure.

But the ruling party’s efforts to

impose new economic policies have been rebuffed by the opposition and even some allies. Analysts say shrinking the Cabinet — along with other concessions — could help the People’s Party appease other groups and ultimately gain their support for economic reforms.

The People’s Party announced last week that the Cabinet would be dissolved, though it has insisted the move has nothing to do with opposition demands. Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani is expected to announce a new Cabinet in the coming days.

It was not clear exactly how many members a new Cabinet would have, or whether any of the faces would remain the same. Key ministries such as foreign and interior are likely to stay intact, though positions such as the minister for postal services might be cut.

Also Wednesday, officials said rival Sunni and Shiite communities in an area close to the Afghan border agreed to end a four-year conflict that claimed hundreds of lives.

Waris Khan Afridi, the head of a tribal council, said the two sects in Kurram region agreed to stop fighting for the benefit of their communities.

Brazilian who abused captive daughter dies in riot SAO PAULO (AP) — A man convicted with imprisoning his daughter and fathering seven children with her was one of the six inmates killed earlier this week in a prison riot in northeastern Brazil, authorities said Wednesday.

Maranhao state public safety spokeswoman Maud Zaiban said that Jose Agostinho Pereira was decapitated by fellow inmates who broke into his cell in the city of Pinheiro.

In June, Pereira was charged with imprisoning his daughter for 12 years in his home and fathering her seven children. Prosecutors have said he also abused two of the children he had with his daughter.

He was convicted in December and sentenced to 30 years in prison on sex abuse charges and of depriving his daughter of her freedom through “private incarceration” Zaiban said by telephone the rebellion began after guards thwarted an escape attempt by several prisoners. She did not know the number of inmates who tried to flee.

“They then raided the cell where inmates charged with rape and pedophilia were being held and killed six of them, four of whom were decapitated,” Zaiban said. The other two, she added, were stabbed to death with makeshift knives.

She said the aborted escape attempt was motivated by the overcrowded conditions: close to 100 inmates were packed into facilities built to hold 30. Overcrowding is common in Brazilian prisons.

The rebellion began Monday and ended Tuesday.

Zaiban said the inmates agreed to return to their cells after authorities said they would consider some of their demands and transfer 14 prisoners to jails nearer to their homes.

The demands included two pounds (one kilogram) of marijuana, a television set, fans to cool the cells and the right to receive home cooked meals, she said.

Asked which demands might be met, Zaiban said, “Marijuana won’t be one of them.”

BEIJING (AP) — Chinese officials said Wednesday they were preparing for a severe, long-lasting drought in several parched provinces, causing wheat prices to spike on the prospect of the world’s largest consumer putting pressure on a global supply that’s already squeezed.

Premier Wen Jiabao led a State Council meeting Wednesday on increasing grain production in the country that’s both the world’s largest wheat grower and largely self-sufficient in supply.

The U.N.’s food agency has warned that the monthslong drought is driving up the country’s wheat prices, and now the focus is on whether China will buy more from the global market, where prices have already risen about 35 percent since mid-November.

The rising prices add to growing concerns in China about inflation, which the government sees as a potential source of social unrest.

Average flour prices rose more than 8 percent in January from the previous two months.

Wheat futures were up Wednesday at both the Chicago Board of Trade and the Zhengzhou Commodity Exchange in China, where prices for September delivery hit a new high.

They were at 3,051 yuan ($463) a ton Wednesday night.

State television broadcast images Wednesday of withered crops in cracked earth. State media have said the eastern province of Shandong faces its worst drought in 200 years and that the other affected provinces across the country’s north and east are facing their worst in 60 years.

In this photo taken Friday Jan. 28, 2011, a Chinese farmer smokes near a dried up pond in the village of Danuanzhang in Rizhao in eastern China’s Shandong province. Months of dry weather have given China’s key wheat-growing province of Shandong its worst drought in at least 40 years. That threatens to put further pressure on surging food prices. (AP Photo)

Shortages of drinking water have affected 2.6 million people.

China’s national weather bureau forecasts little if any rain for the Shandong region through Feb. 17.

“What we are doing now is making full preparations to deal with a severe, long-lasting drought,” said the director of emergency relief at Shandong’s weather bureau. Like many Chinese officials, he would not give his name.

China has said the drought is mainly affecting Shandong, Jiangsu, Henan, Hebei and Shanxi, which grow more than two-thirds of the country’s wheat.

China’s winter wheat is harvested in June, and Tuesday’s alert by the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organisation said the situation could become critical if a spring drought follows the winter drought or if temperatures plunge this month.

“At the moment, we’re not projecting China to be a significant importer in the current year,” said Amy Reynolds, senior economist with the London-based International Grains Council.

She did point out that global wheat stocks are tight, and it’s very difficult to tell how much wheat China has stockpiled.

Prince Charles blasts climate-change skeptics BRUSSELS (AP) — Prince Charles lashed out Wednesday at climate change skeptics, saying they are playing “a reckless game of roulette” with the planet’s future.

Skeptics are having a “corrosive effect” on public opinion, the British heir to the throne added.

“Their suggestion, that hundreds of scientists around the world ... are somehow unconsciously biased, creates the implication that many of us are secretly conspiring to undermine and deliberately destroy the entire market-based capitalist system,” he said.

Many doubters — particularly in the United States — have dismissed scientific evidence supporting

warming of the earth due to human activity, arguing that the large majority of scientists are wrong, or the consequences of warming overstated.

Charles asked: “How are these people going to face their grandchildren and admit to them that they failed their future?”

Along with top officials of the European Union, Charles was addressing the Low Carbon Prosperity Summit, a conference devoted to engaging more European businesses in promoting a lowcarbon economy.

In a speech to a packed European Parliament chamber, Charles touched on topics ranging from the

need to protect fisheries and the Amazon rainforest, to making lowcarbon emissions affordable and competitive.

Charles, who has been active in promoting environmental issues, was asked to participate in the conference in order to raise public awareness throughout Europe.

“Your presence brings added value and attention to this important issue,” EU President Herman Van Rompuy said.

The prince is a patron of the Cambridge Programme for Sustainability Leadership, which works with business, government and civil society to promote a sustainable economic future.

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Entertainment

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Judge tells Lohan she’s no star in his courtroom

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Lindsay Lohan walked into a courtroom to face a felony grand theft charge looking like a million dollars, only to be told by a judge she was no different than anyone else.

Lohan’s arraignment on a charge that she stole a $2,500 necklace from an upscale jeweler wasn’t the first time a judge threatened to throw the troubled starlet in jail. But it was the first time a judge wielded enough power to keep her locked up for a long time.

“You’re in a different situation now that a felony has been filed,” Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Keith Schwartz said after the actress pleaded not guilty Wednesday.

“Everybody else has to follow the law,” Schwartz said, noting that he was giving the actress a tamer version of a lecture he’d delivered to her attorney behind closed doors and away from the dozens of assembled reporters.

“You’re no different than anyone else. So please, don’t push your luck.”

Testing the limits — in the courtroom rather than the big screen — has been Lohan’s calling card in recent months.

She has arrived late to some

‘Candy Licker’ singer Marvin Sease dead at 64 VICKSBURG, Mississippi (AP) — Marvin Sease, a blues and soul singer known for his 1980s hit “Candy Licker,” has died after a lengthy illness. He was 64.

James Jefferson, owner of Jefferson Funeral Home in Vicksburg, Mississippi, says Sease died Tuesday at River Region Medical Center.

Sease was born in Blacksville, South Carolina.

Brett Bonner, editor of Living Blues Magazine, says Sease started in gospel music in South Carolina before moving to New York and eventually playing rhythm and blues.

Bonner says after “Candy Licker” was released in the late 1980s, Sease became popular for his live performances in the South. Bonner says many of Sease’s song were too dirty for airplay.

Sease had been living in Vicksburg.

February 12 - 18, 2011

Coen’s “True Grit” opens Berlin film festival BERLIN (AP) — The annual Berlin International Film Festival is opening with Joel and Ethan Coen’s multiple-Oscar-nominated Western, “True Grit.”

The remake of a John Wayne classic, starring Jeff Bridges and Hailee Steinfeld, screens out of competition Thursday.

That opens a varied 10-day programme that includes Ralph Fiennes’ debut as a director, “Coriolanus,” and J.C. Chandor’s finance thriller “Margin Call.”

A six-member jury under actress Isabella Rossellini will award the festival’s top honour, the Golden Bear.

A seat was left symbolically empty Thursday for the jury’s official seventh member — Iranian director Jafar Panahi, jailed in his homeland.

Rossellini says inviting Panahi was an “attempt to take a very strong position for freedom of speech and freedom of artists.”

Picasso painting fetches $40.7 million at auction

Actress Lindsay Lohan appears in court during her arraignment on a felony grand theft charge at the LAX Airport Courthouse in Los Angeles, Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2011. (AP Photo/Mario Anzuoni, Pool)

hearings on a 2007 drunken driving case, and appeared at one with an expletive painted on her fingernails.

Judges sent her to jail twice last year and twice to rehab as well, but her time in custody was shortened each time by overcrowding and the fact that she was being held on misdemeanor charges and bail had to be set.

During her recent three month stay in rehab at the Betty Ford Clinic, Lohan was accused of battery on a worker. Prosecutors are still considering whether to file charges.

The necklace theft accusation came less than three weeks after

Lohan’s discharge from Betty Ford.

In both cases, Lohan’s attorney has denied wrongdoing by the actress.

The “Mean Girls” star is due back in court on Feb. 23, an important hearing in which Lohan could opt to end the case early. Her attorney, Shawn Chapman Holley, indicated Wednesday that the actress was interested in an early disposition programme if the terms are right.

That would prevent a trial, and a preliminary hearing during which evidence against Lohan would be presented, but also likely mean that she would remain under court scrutiny for some time.

LONDON (AP) — A Pablo Picasso painting depicting his young lover Marie-Therese Walter has sold for 25.2 million pounds ($40.7 million) at a London auction.

Sotheby’s says the 1932 painting, called “La Lecture,” was bought by an anonymous buyer over the phone after some six minutes of heated contest among bidders.

The painting was expected to fetch up to 18 million pounds ($28.9 million). The picture’s selling price Tuesday included a premium of 2.7 million pounds ($4.3 million).

It shows Walter, Picasso’s mistress and model for several paintings, asleep in an armchair.

Walter was 17 when she met Picasso, and she later had a daughter, Maya, with the artist.

This photo released by Sotheby’s, Tuesday Feb. 8 2011, shows the painting La Lecture,

by Pablo Picasso. (AP Photo / Sotheby’s / ho)

Ex-’American Idol’ star to make stage debut NEW YORK (AP) — Former “American Idol” star Sanjaya Malakar is making his stage debut this month — but, no, it won’t be in “Hair.”

The Indian-American singer, who was a finalist on Season 6 of the Fox singing competition and became known as much for his hairstyles as his voice, will be stepping into the off-Broadway musical “Freckleface Strawberry.”

The show is based on the popular children’s book by Julianne Moore and is being staged at New World Stages on 50th Street.

Malakar, son of a Bengali classical musician, joins the show on Feb. 23.

The 21-year-old is currently writing and recording his own original music for a full length album “Life-Love-Music.”

Lady Gaga says album “Born This Way” will take the music world by storm.

Gaga wants new album to be ‘best of decade’ former “American Idol” contestant Sanjaya Malakar attends Bravo’s A-List Awards at the Orpheum Theater in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Shea Walsh, file)

NEW YORK (AP) — It’s only 2011 but Lady Gaga wants her next album “Born This Way” to be the best of the decade.

The performer tells the March issue of Vogue her fans deserve “nothing less” than that. She also doesn’t want to record “something trendy.”

The album’s first single of the

same name is described as a gaypride anthem, which the singer tells the magazine she wrote in 10 minutes.

Earlier this week, Lady Gaga wrote on Twitter the song would debut on U.S. radio on Friday.

Lady Gaga is nominated for six awards at Sunday’s Grammy Awards including album of the year.

February 12 - 18, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

33

Science & Technology

Shark attacks hit 10-year high SHARKS attacks went up last year - the highest amount of attacks seen worldwide in a decade, researchers say.

The spike in attacks is most likely due to the growth of the human population, coupled with the increasingly large amount of time people spend in the sea, which raises the odds of human-shark interactions.

Scientists investigated 115 alleged incidents of struggles between humans and sharks worldwide in 2010. They confirmed that 79 of these were unprovoked shark attacks on live humans.

Unprovoked attacks are ones that occurred with the predators in their natural habitats without human instigation. The other 36 incidents included 22 provoked attacks - such as assaults after divers grabbed sharks - including three cases of sharks biting boats, four incidents dismissed as non-shark attacks, five scavenging incidents of human

corpses and two cases where there was not enough information to determine if an unprovoked shark attack had occurred.

Where sharks attack This 2010 total of 79 unprovoked shark attacks was higher than the 63 unprovoked attacks in 2009, and the highest since 80 attacks in 2000.

As in recent years, North American waters had the most unprovoked attacks in 2010 at 32 (or 42 percent of the total). Florida had most of the unprovoked attacks in the United States at 13, although this was the lowest total since a dozen incidents were documented in 2004 and fell well below the 2001 to 2010 average of 23.1.

Unprovoked assaults elsewhere include: 14 in Australia, eight in South Africa, six in Vietnam and six in Egypt. Single incidents were also noted in the Bahamas, Brazil, Fiji, Madagascar, Mascarene Islands, Solomon Islands, Canary Islands, Tonga and the United Arab

Diet soda tied to stroke risk, but reasons unclear LOS ANGELES (AP) — It’s far from definitive proof, but new research raises concern about diet soda, finding higher risks for stroke and heart attack among people who drink it every day versus those who drink no soda at all.

The beverage findings should be “a wakeup call to pay attention to diet sodas,” said Dr. Steven Greenberg. He is a Harvard Medical School neurologist and vice chairman of the International Stroke Conference in California, where the research was presented on Wednesday.

A simple solution, health experts say, is to drink water instead.

Doctors have no chemical or biological explanation for why diet soda may be risky. It could be that people who drink lots of it also fail to exercise, weigh more, drink more alcohol or have other risk factors like high blood pressure and smoking. However, the researchers took these and many other factors into account and didn’t see a change in the trend.

“It’s reasonable to have doubts, because we don’t have a clear mechanism. This needs to be viewed as a preliminary study,” said lead researcher Hannah Gardener of the University of Miami.

But for those trying to cut calories, “diet soft drinks may not be an optimal substitute for sugarsweetened beverages,” she said.

The numbers come from the Northern Manhattan study, which enrolled about 2,500 adults over 40

in the New York area from 1993 to 2001 through random phone calls.

Half are Hispanic and one-fourth are black, making it one of the few studies to look at these risks in minorities, who have higher rates of stroke.

Participants filled out a standard survey about their diets at the start of the study, and their health was tracked for nearly 10 years. In that time there were 559 strokes or heart attacks, 338 of them fatal.

Daily diet soda drinkers (there were 116 in the study) had a 48 percent higher risk of stroke or heart attack than people who drank no soda of any kind (901 people, or 35 percent of total participants).

That’s after taking into account rates of smoking, diabetes, waistline size and other differences among the groups.

No significant differences in risk were seen among people who drank a mix of diet and regular soda.

Earlier studies have tied diet and regular soda consumption to greater risk of diabetes and a group of weight-related problems called the metabolic syndrome.

Some diet soda critics have suggested it can promote a sweet tooth, affecting behavior and how much of a person’s diet comes from sugary sources rather than healthier fruits, vegetables and grains.

These sorts of studies just observe groups of people and are not strong enough evidence to prove risk.

Shark attacks have increased worldwide.

Emirates.

Vietnam and Egypt had unusually high numbers of attacks this year, said George Burgess at the University of Florida in Gainesville, curator of the International Shark Attack File. While he could not speak to why Vietnam experienced so many attacks, his trip to Egypt revealed there had been illegal offshore dumping of sheep guts as well as overt feeding of fish that lured sharks into the area, which helped lead to subsequent attacks.

Also, water temperatures there were unusually high, which might have

somehow put the sharks on edge, Burgess suggested.

Six fatalities from unprovoked attacks occurred in 2010, which was only slightly above the yearly average of 4.3 fatalities from 2001 to 2010. Two happened in South Africa, while the others were lone cases that happened in Egypt, Australia, Florida and California. This unprovoked attack fatality rate of 7 percent between 2001 and 2010 was lower than the 13 percent seen in the 1990s, likely reflecting advances in beach safety practices, medical treatment

and public awareness of avoiding potentially dangerous situations.

Growing trend?

While the number of unprovoked shark attacks has grown at a steady pace over the past century (and developments such as the Web have now given the public the ability to report attacks, increasing the awareness of such assaults), the rise in attacks might not necessarily be indicative of a growing trend.

“There are ups and downs from year to year that are motivated by a large number of factors oceanographic conditions, meteorological conditions, as well as social and economic conditions, and all combined lead to variations annually,” Burgess told LiveScience.

In fact, despite this recent spike, the number of shark attacks worldwide has generally leveled off in the last decade, averaging 63.5 per year since 2000. There were fewer tourists in the water due to economic troubles after 9/11 and the recent global recession, and also because of tropical storms that battered the East Coast of the United States.

People might also generally be getting smarter about reducing their interactions with sharks, while there are also fewer sharks in the water due to worldwide overfishing of them.

Images show why ancient snakes were out on a limb PARIS, France (AFP) – Ultra-sharp 3-D X-ray imaging of a 95-millionyear-old fossil found in Lebanon has shed light on the evolution of snakes from limbed lizards, French scientists said on Wednesday.

The 50-centimetre (20-inch) fossil of Eupodophis desouensi shows a small hind leg attached to the animal’s pelvis. It had been buried beneath its body, and was only visible thanks to the new technique.

The find adds powerfully to theories that snakes evolved from lizards but needed legs less and less -- and eventually lost them entirely -- after succeeding in habitats where crawling or slithering gave an advantage.

The new image shows that E. desouensi, at this point in the Cretaceous period, was at a partway stage in the change.

The residual leg is seen bent at the knee, with four ankle bones, but with no foot or toe bones.

“Fossils like this are key to understanding the origin of snakes, because they show the intermediate development,” said Alexandra Houssaye, a paleobiologist at France’s National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS).

The imaging comes courtesy of a technique called synchroton laminography, which uses a highresolution X-ray to delve below the

A picture provided by the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility shows a detail of the fossil snake Eupodophis descouensi, with a finger pointing at the leg of the snake. Ultra-sharp 3-D X-ray imaging of the 95-million-year-old fossil has shed light on the evolution of snakes from limbed lizards, according to French scientists.

surface and identify details just a few millionths of a metre (tens of thousands of an inch) across.

The fossil is rotated through 360 degrees during the scan, providing a three-dimensional image similar to the famous computed tomography (CT) technique used in hospitals.

The study appears in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology.

The E. desouensi find was made 10 years ago and caused excitement because a small hind leg about two centimetres (0.8 of an inch) long was found on the fossil’s surface. Experts had long pondered whether a second rear leg could be seen.

There is no sign of forelegs, indicating that these limbs had already been eliminated through evolutionary pressure.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Services Auto sales real estate

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POSITION AVAILABLE Gardener/handyman 11th FEBRUARY, 2011

Required 1 to 2 days weekly. Wages $42 per day. The Successful applicant must have good knowledge of plant care and general property maintenance.

For an interview or appointment phone Sandy Lightbourne at 231-1092 Mon to Fri between hrs of 10am and 5pm. Resumes and references required Applications would be considered from Belongers only and must be received by 14TH February, 2011.

Asking Price $1250 p/m (Slightly Negotiable) **************************** GRACEBAY STEAL!!!

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vehicles for sale Mac Motors

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COLASCO Is looking for a

Labourer To work 5 days per week. Salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact 941-3212

946-4664 Fax: 946-4661

Email: tcnews@tciway.tc

Website: tcweeklynews.com

Ram Sport 1500 5.7L V8 Hemi 4x2 (Sunburst) - 36,500

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for sale 10m 2010 Torch is for sale for $950.

The kite is in very good condition with only one small tear, which was repaired.

Also selling 130cm Momentum for $400.

It comes with new foot-pads and fins.

The board has some scrapes on the bottom. Contact 342-2941

Gift Sets for men and women Designer Vases on display.

For more information, call us at 6499464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@ yahoo.com ************************ Fresh and Silk flower Arrangements available for centerpieces And decorations in all sizes ************************* Customized Gift Baskets for her and him…tell us what You want and we’ll do it for you! ************************* Decors and flowers for wedding from ceremony to Personal flowers and all through the reception ************************* Sympathy Wreath and Casket Sprays available in different sizes *************************** Inspirational Gift Items and baskets in different designs On display For more information, call us at 6499464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com

DESERENE LEWIS

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Sell Avon 346-1434 / 246-1434

The Flower Girl Bed and Bath Shop Bed and bath sets and Lingeries For more information, call us at 649-9464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com ******************************** We now accept Upholstery jobs.

Have your cushions re-covered at excellent prices Drape fabrics are also in stock For more information, call us at 6499464894 or 649-2313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@ yahoo.com The Flower Girl Bouquets, Mix and Tropical Arrangements for all occasions Price ranges from $15.00 and up For more information and reservation, call us at 649-9464894 or 6492313788, You may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com *********************** Easter Baskets and Easter Dresses available For more information, call us at 649-9464894 or 6492313788, you may also e-mail us at flowergirlprovo@yahoo.com ********************** Cards for all occasions,

Labourer

needed

To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.50 per hour.

Contact 244-2830

6514

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

Job Listings

February 12 - 18, 2011

Call today to advertise

946-4664 OR EMAIL

tcnews@tciway.tc

Ideal Petroleum Is looking to fill the following positions:

Labourer

Pump Attendant

To work 6 days per week. Salary $350.00 per week.

Contact 946-5663

6510

34

February 12 - 18, 2011

35 FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

JOCELYNE CADET

CARL JOLLY

One

Seeks to employ

Labourer Is looking to hire a

Labourer

Is looking for a

6513

Salary $5.00 per hour. To work from 7:30am – 4:30pm

Contact 241-4923

KENNETH HALL

Driver To work 3 days per week.

Salary $150.00 per week.

Contact 243-1030 PHILOMISE JOSEPH

Nature Splendor Ltd.

Labourer Is looking for a

Gardener With the following skills:

@@Landscaping installation @@Garden irrigation @@Garden maintenance

To work 2 days per week. Salary $5.50 per hour.

Salary commences at $7.00 per hour. Qualify person please submit application to:

The Director P.O. Box 417, Providenciales, TCI 6521

To work for 6 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 241-8960

6520

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Contact 341-0451 or 244-4306 PREMIERE TOWING

Providenciales Telephone: 231-2474

LABOURER/

DRIVER Salary starts at $5.00 per hour. Only Turks Islanders need apply

6519

SELVERADO BLOCK/ CONSTRUCTION Providenciales Telephone: 331-0592

LABOURER

Salary starts at $5.00 per hour. Only Turks Islanders need apply 6518

36

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

A beachfront Estate on Providenciales is inviting applications for the following positions:

SOMMELIER

6482

Is looking for a

Domestic

Worker

To work 6 days per week. Must be able to work on holidays.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Belongers and unrestricted PRC Holders need only apply please submit resumes to P.O. Box 459, Providenciales 6504

aDVERTISE AND ENJOY A WIDE CIRCULATION

Please send all correspondence to the Labor Department, Providenciales or contact Marsha 232-2848

JOB VACANCY

Scooter Mechanic

Position Available Sibonné Beach Hotel and Turtle Cove Inn (the “Hotels”) are seeking an ambitious and energetic individual to fill the position of

Hotel Operations Manager Position Summary: The Hotel Operations Manager will be responsible for all aspects of the Hotels including but not limited to guest relations, marketing, human resources/staffing, maintenance, management of rental properties including on-site restaurants, accounting/reporting and cost and budget analysis.

engine performance indicators.

• Performing small maintenance requests on all vehicles (cleaning, inflation tires, fixing all mechanical malfunction, etc) • Liaise and Assist with Scooter Operations agent with office duties when necessary • Advising Management of all daily activities • Responding to queries regarding scooter/ buggy functionality raised by customers, agent and mgmt. in the most friendly and adequate manner as possible • Support the Company’s promotional efforts.

• Ensuring that all returned vehicle are cleaned and ready for next day’s use.

• Any other duties assigned by Management

Essential Functions: 1. Manages and is responsible for all aspect of the Hotels.

2. Interacts with Hotel guests to insure the best experience possible and responsible for dealing with guest complaints.

3. Responsible for all facets of marketing of the Hotels to insure maximum occupancy and profitability and works with independent consultants assisting with marketing.

4. Works directly with all staff motivating them to do the best job possible and to provide excellent service. Responsible for hiring, training, evaluation and disciplinary action of all staff.

5. In charge of maintenance and repairs of properties and facilities of the Hotels insuring quality standards.

6. Responsible for managing commercial rental properties including rental to on-site restaurants at the Hotels.

7. Prepares annual operating budgets for the operations of the Hotels and provides full and detailed reporting to owner representative. Manages budgets and cash flows of the Hotels insuring efficient use of funds.

8. Responsible for establishing goals and objectives for the Hotels and devising strategic planning and implementation procedures to achieve such goals and objectives.

9. Maintains effective owner relations by communicating regularly with owner representative and responding to owner requests in a timely and effective manner.

10. Performs additional responsibilities and duties as required by owner representative.

Qualifications:

• Candidate must be able to drive a scooter/ buggy, as delivery and pick up requests are a normal part of this function.

• Candidate must be aware of the basic and all technical functionalities of a scooter/ buggy • Candidate must have a minimum of 5 years experience in scooter/buggy operations and mechanics • Candidate must be personable and customer service oriented

Qualifications: 1. Bachelor’s Degree or educational equivalent.

2. Significant hands-on management experience in the hospitality industry.

3. Ability to effectively interact with and project a positive professional image to guests and supervising personnel.

4. Strong oral and written communication skills and advance computer skills.

5. Solid management, financial and supervisory skills.

6496

All Salaries are subject to negotiation.

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

Cleaner

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

The applicant must have prior experience as a Housekeeper and will be required to live on property must be willing to work as a team with existing housekeeper salary payable is: $12,000.00 per annum.

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

Is looking for a

Contact 941-5341

LIVE-IN HOUSEKEEPER

All interested please forward resumes to ramonandrews244@hotmail.com or snjezana_andrews@yahoo.com

COYABA RESTAURANT

TIKI HUT

To work 6 days a week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Knowledge and Skills: Must have extensive knowledge of fine wines and will be required to assist the chef Requirements: prior work experience in luxury villas; possess a clean driver’s license and will be required to live on property salary range is $12,000.00 per annum

Responsibilities:

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

Positions Available

• Dismantle engines and repair or replace defective parts, such as magnetos, carburetors, and generators.

• Remove cylinder heads, grind valves, and scrape off carbon, and replace defective valves, pistons, cylinders and rings, using hand tools and power tools.

• Hammer out dents and bends in frames, weld tears and breaks; then reassemble frames and reinstall engines. Responsible for body maintenance and paint repair work • Repair or replace other parts, such as headlights, horns, handlebar controls, gasoline and oil tanks, starters, and mufflers.

• Repair and adjust motorcycle subassemblies such as forks, transmissions, brakes, and drive chains, according to specifications.

• Replace defective parts, using hand tools, arbor presses, flexible power presses, or power tools.

• Reassemble and test subassembly units.

Disassemble subassembly units and examine condition, movement or alignment of parts visually or using gauges.

• Listen to engines, examine vehicle frames, and confer with customers in order to determine nature and extent of malfunction or damage.

• Connect test panels to engines and measure generator output, ignition timing, and other

February 12 - 18, 2011

Miscellaneous 1. Applications by Belongers only.

2. Salary range is $50,000.00 to $80,000.00. Salary and bonus shall be commensurate with experience.

Applications must be submitted in writing to resume@sibonne.com and closing date for applications is February 21st , 2011.

February 12 - 18, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

HAIR AFFAIR SCHOOL OF COSMETOLOGY

is looking for a

Is looking for a

PRESTON HARRIS

Labourer Is looking for a

Tile Cosmetology Instructor Layer To work 3 days To work 5 days per week. Salary $7.00 per hour.

per week. Salary negotiable.

Deadline for applications is February 25th, 2011

Contact 241-5564 or 344-1345

Contact 245-4918

Worker Needed to Contact at 231-7399

6470

work 4 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

KITCHEN HELPER NEEDED

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

Contact 241-8830

TCITC

JAMES PARKER Is looking for a

PUBLIC NOTICE Labourer 2011 – 2

Job includes dish washing, floor cleaning, garbage detail, store room organizer, busy restaurant.

Contact Tracy @ 941-8408 Belongers only 6493

To do general labour work Monday – Friday 7am-4pm.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 241-1458

6496

Domestic

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

CARO MISSICK

KAYONN MISSICK

37

REGISTERED LAND ORDINANCE, CAP 72

NOTICE LOST LAND CERTIFICATE Whereas RONALD PETER CURLEY on behalf of THE TURKS AND CAICOS EX-SERVICEMEN LEGION, Grand Turk has declared that the Land Certificate for the above mentioned title number(s) registered in their name was inadvertently mislaid and cannot be found.

ACCORDINGLY, the Commission invites comments from interested parties on this revised Interim Spectrum Plan which will be taken into consideration for the adoption of a Final Spectrum Plan for the Turks and Caicos Islands. Comments should be submitted to the Commission within 5 weeks of the publication of this notice, and should reach the Commission by Monday, February 28, 2011, at their office at The Business Solution Complex, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, or by mail to P.O. Box 203, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, or electronically via email at consultation@tcitelecommission.tc. All submissions should be filed electronically even if also filed in paper form.

Take notice that I, Grisilda Carol Smith, Acting Registrar of Lands, shall issue a new land certificate for the said title within six weeks of the date of the first publication of this Notice in a local newspaper and the Gazette.

Date this 24th day of January 2011 Signed…………..................................………………………….

4679

Witnessed…………..........................……………………………

the largest readership in the turks & caicos

WHEREAS, the Telecommunications Commission pursuant to sections 30 and 39 of the Telecommunications Ordinance 2004, and section 4 of the Frequency Management Regulations 2005, is initiating the present consultation process on the Spectrum Plan of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

NOW THEREFORE, the Commission announces the release for comments and consultation of the Turks and Caicos Islands Spectrum Plan/Table of Frequency Allocations document. At present this proposed plan will serve as the Interim Spectrum Plan for Turks and Caicos Islands, and will be used as a guide to the various operators for the use of the frequency bands. This proposed spectrum plan is based on the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) recommendations, and it encompasses most of the decisions adopted by the ITU at the World Radio Conference 2007 (WRC-2007).

The Turks and Caicos Islands Spectrum Plan/Table of Frequency Allocations allocates frequency bands to radio services within the scope of the International Table and as required to meet Turks and Caicos Islands needs. The footnotes provide the particular provisions and conditions for use of those radio services in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

TITLE NUMBER SECTION ISLAND 10402/10 EAST SUBURBS GRAND TURK

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!!

Turks and Caicos Islands Spectrum Plan/Table of Frequency Allocations

FURTHER, the present consultation process also permits any party to submit reply comments in reply to any matters contained in another party’s comments filed with the Commission by the stipulated deadline of February 28, 2011. Any such reply comments must be filed with the Commission in the same manner as described above and must be received by the Commission on or before 3:30 p.m. Monday, March 7, 2011.

Obtaining Copies Copies of the Turks and Caicos Islands Spectrum Plan/Table of Frequency Allocations are available electronically on the Turks and Caicos Telecommunications Commission Web site at: http://www.tcitelecommission.tc

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

POSITION VACANT

VINO TIEMPO WINE BAR, LOUNGE & CIGAR GARDEN

A busy Restaurant is seeking an applicant for a

Mixologist Position

is currently seeking the following positions:

WAITRESS

Must be able to work days, nights, public holidays and weekends. Must be able to lift up to 50lbs and maintain a standing position for up to 8 hours.

The successful applicant must have at least 10 yrs experience minimum in the restaurant/bar and service industry. Applicant must be proficient in costing, detailed inventory control, bar procedures and Microsoft Office Suite. Applicant must be an advanced user of Excel , inventory software.

Must be proficient using and programming a Mircos E7 POS system.

Applicant must have extensive knowledge in customer service. Spoken English and French a must. Valid driving license. Commensuration is 5.50$ /hour.. Please fax your resume to (649) 339-6896.

6508

PRELIMINARY NOTICE

OF AUCTION SALES FirstCaribbean International Bank (Bahamas) Ltd (‘FCIB’) , as Chargee, pursuant to section 72 of the Registered Land Ordinance, hereby gives notice that it will cause to be sold by Public Auction the scheduled property at the offices of MCKNIGHTS International Law Firm, Attorneys at Law, 46 Salt Mills Plaza, Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (telephone 941 2330 fax 941 2331 email admin@mcknights.tc) at 10:00 am on Friday, March 11, 2011.

For more information please contact Mr. Corey Clarke, FCIB, Head Office, Bridgetown, Barbados (Tel: 246 467 1654/email: corey.clarke@firstcaribbeanbank.com) or MCKNIGHTS (see contact details above).

Vista Properties Ltd. as Chargee pursuant to its charge and the Registered Land Ordinance, hereby gives notice that it will cause the property listed below to be sold by Public Auction, to be held at the office of Garland & Co, Unit 9, La Vista Azul, Turtle Cove, Providenciales at 10.00 a.m. on Friday March 4th 2011.

Title No. 60804/30 The Bight & Thomas Stubbs, Providenciales comprising 1.38 acres. The Property is located across the street from Sibonne Hotel on Grace Bay, and is zoned for commercial development.

Proprietor Approximate Area

1.38

DISHWASHER

• Must have 2 years experience in a fast paced kitchen/fine dining restaurant • Must have a wide range of knowledge on all equipment found

in kitchen/on site • Must maintain a high level of cleanliness and produce high standards of hygienic practices • Be willing to work both in kitchen, common areas, house floor, washrooms • Be prepared to work long hours • Positions above requires working long hours, nights, days, public holidays and weekends Salary range based on experience

For more information please contact Vino Tiempo Wine Bar, Lounge & Cigar Garden at 649-946-8466

6507

POSITION AVAILABLE

Business Support Supervisor Breaking Waves Management Solutions is seeking to fill the above position

RESPONSIBILITIES: • Develop, implement and evaluate Office procedures, increasing productivity and work flow • Coordinate, develop, and manage marketing and advertising strategies and collateral • Manage Accounts receivables & payables • Data Entry • Assist to Identify and develop sales opportunities • Answer phones and provide customer service

NOTICE Range Insurance Company, Ltd. (“in Voluntary Liquidation”) Registered No. E9619

NOTICE is hereby given, pursuant to Section 133 of the Companies Ordinance 1981, that, pursuant to a written resolution of the shareholders of Range Insurance Company, Ltd. (“the Company”) on 22nd day of December 2010 it was RESOLVED that the Company be wound-up voluntarily and that Gary Brough of KPMG Restructuring Ltd. be appointed Liquidator for the purposes of such winding up.

NOTICE is hereby given that creditors of the Company, which was located at Richmond House Annex, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, are required, on or before 8 April 2011, to send their names and addresses with particulars of their debts and claims, to the liquidator of the Company at the following address: Gary Brough KPMG Restructuring Ltd., KPMG Building The Village at Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (F) 649 946 4619 and, if so required by notice in writing by the said liquidator are, by their Attorney’s or personally, to come in and prove their said debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof they may be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts are proved.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION ARE AVAILABLE BY REQUEST, FROM GARLAND & CO. Interested buyers should contact Alvin Garland at Garland & Co Unit 9, La Vista Azul, Turtle Cove, Providenciales on 649-941-5905 or by fax to 649-941-4754

• Must work well under pressure and be able to handle long hours • A friendly and professional demeanor must be a team player

Send CV and References to: Breaking Waves Management Solutions at bwms@tciway.tc

NOTICE OF SALE

BY PUBLIC AUCTION

Absolute G.B.L Holdings Ltd.

• Minimum 4 years of food and beverage experience in fine dining • Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills • Knowledge on Aldelo software systems • Must have extensive knowledge of wines from around the world • Must have extensive experience in fine wine service and execution

REQUIREMENTS: • Degree in business management.

• Minimum 10 years experience in a supervisor/managerial capacity, with marketing, customer relations, and accounts management experience.

• Proven success and experience in the development of office procedures and accounting practices • Good process orientation and project management skills from development to implementation.

• Demonstrated success in working in a team environment.

• Exceptional communications skills – written and verbal.

• Strong analytic abilities.

• Detail Oriented • Advanced computer skills and knowledge of MS Office, Quickbooks, and windows applications.

Salary: Commission ONLY

1. Title No. 60400/68 Chalk Sound, Providenciales Comprising 0.70 acres residential property consisting of a detached two storey dwelling house of approximately 3,308 square feet of living space with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, kitchen, living room, dining room, utility room, double garage and porch at rear.

Registered Proprietors, Norman & Barbara Hamilton

Title

FAX: (649) 946-4661

VACANCIES

Saltmills Restaurant Ltd

LOCATION

February 12 - 18, 2011

6516

38

Dated the 8th Day of February 2011 Gary Brough, Liquidator, Range Insurance Company, Ltd. 6509

6513

February 12 - 18, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

39

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

Pampered Paws Spa

Labourer

Needed

is looking for an

Assistant Manager/ Dog Trainer

For general cleaning and maintenance of residence. Salary: $5:00 per hour for a 40 hour work- week. Contact: B. Yvonne Kerr

With minimum of 5 years experience in canine development and behavior, applicants must be able to work in close proximity and clean up after animals. Jobs requires heavy lifting and own transportation, must be available 7 days a week from 6am until 8:30pm. Starting salary $5.50 per hour. Belongers only need apply.

649-243-0880

By Feb 25, 2011

6506

Contact 232-1119 position available immediately

FAX: (649) 946-4661

Grace Bay Suites

FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION

Is accepting applications for:

Assistant Manager

The Financial Services Commission, a statutory body of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government, is seeking a qualified person for the post of

must have own transportation, live on site, be on call from 5pm-9am and work two or more day shifts in office .Working knowledge of Excel, Word and QuickBooks for Mac is essential. Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English is mandatory, and preference given to applicants with basic French or Spanish.

Minimum 2 years managerial experience .Salary is based upon a base rate plus commissions commensurate with experience.

Receipts Officer The holder of this position will carry out the following duties:      

Cleaners

For rooms, yard work and pool must be experience and be available weekends and overtime as required and have own transportation .Salary $5.50 per hour.

Process receipts Prepare invoices Ensure that copies of all documents generated are properly filed Reconcile cash balances to Daily Cash Receipts Journals Prepare lodgements Other duties as set out in the Job Description of Receipts Officer or as assigned.

Preferred qualification is 4 CXCs, including Mathematics, English and Accounting.

At least one (1) year accounting experience.

Please Send your CV’s to: Bernie Gardiner Manger of GBS. Closing Date 28 February 2011

Position is in Providenciales.

Applications should be received no later than Wednesday, February 16, 2011.

Email to dmorrison@tcifsc.tc or fax to 941-8379.

NOTICE OF SALE BY

BAYVIEW MOTORS

Two Labourers PUBLIC AUCTION Is currently looking to employ the following positions:

Vic and Virginia Georgeff c/o Hugh G. O’Neill & Co., Hibernian House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, hereby give notice of their intention to sell by Public Auction the following property:

Who will be responsible for the daily maintenance of the building and its surrounding must be able to drive a range of vehicle including buses must be courteous at all times with a pleasant attitude towards our customers. Salary is based on minimum wages and any other duty that may be assigned to you. All applicants must possess a valid driver’s license, willing to work with little or no supervision. Must be willing to work weekends. Must be able to drive a manual vehicle.

Title # Section Island 61108/36 Long Bay Hills Providenciales This property comprises +/- 1.0 acre lot, a completely furnished 2,364 sq. ft main house with 1,990 sq. ft of deck space plus 820 sq. ft guest house with 1,312 sq. ft of wrap around deck. (See photos at www.caribbeanhouseforeclosure.com) The auction will be held at the premises of the office of Hugh G. O’Neill & Co., Attorneys at Law, Hibernian House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales at 10:00 o’clock in the morning on Tuesday the 15th, February, 2011.

Please email all application to mariec@bayviewmotors.com Please submit all application between 9am and 5pm Monday – Friday

Registered proprietor Doc’s Opportunities Company Ltd. A reserved price will be fixed

Bayview Motors Ltd. P.O. Box 619 Leeward Highway, Providenciales 6520

Conditions of sale and a draft contract may be obtained from the offices of Hugh G. O’Neill & Co., Attorneys at Law, Hibernian House, Leeward Highway, Providenciales.

Tel: (649) 946-4514 Fax: (649) 946-4955

4617

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

J & A CONSTRUCTION

DELANNO CLARKE

Is looking for a

To work 2 days per week. Salary $6.50 per hour.

Mechanic To work 3 days per week.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 241-5678

THE CRYSTAL & GIFT GALLERY Is seeking to hire a

Worker Contact 241-2866

6463

WANTED

Domestic To work 6 days per week must be trustworthy and reliable. Must be able to work flexible hours. Salary $6.00 per hour.

Contact 941-4826 Is looking for a

ALBERTS CLEANING SERVICES

BOTTLE CREEK NORTH CAICOS

Is looking for 3

6506

Labourer

GERTRUDE’S GROCERY Is looking for a

Is looking for a

CHRIS STUBBS

Telephone: 941-8080 6507

Contact 649-946-7051 Fax: 649-946-7432

Is looking for a

week. Send resumes to Pastor Nicolas Pierre South Caicos

6487

ATTORNEY A

local law firm is seeking a highly qualified Attorney-At-Law who has been called to the England Bar with ability to practice in the Turks and Caicos. Must possess a Bachelor of Laws Degree, be fluent in French and hold 15 years experience in fields including but not limited to commercial law, intellectual property law, corporate law, and internet law with the ability to initiate, thoroughly advise, prepare and close real estate transactions. Must also have experience with drafting legislation. Previous extensive experience within the Caribbean required.

Salary commensurate with experience.

Send resumes into info@karammissick.com

needed

To clean the yard and do minor maintenance. Must be able to work 3 days per week. From 8am-5pm.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 246-0325

Construction Supervisor To work in North Caicos.

Must have at least 7 years experience. Must be able to work 5 days per week.

Salary $15.00 per hour.

Contact 232-7317

6467

6515

Contact 946-4398

To work in North Caicos. Average weekly hour is 37 hours. Salary $5.00 per hour.

LEW & JAN CONSTRUCTION

SOUTH CAICOS is looking for 2

Cleaner Evangelist Housekeeper To work 5 days Salary $300 per To work 3 days per week salary $5.00 per hour. Duties: cleaning floors and windows, dispose of garbage.

Domestic Workers

NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH

Labourer

per week. Salary $6.00 per hour.

FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

6505

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

February 12 - 18, 2011

6459

40

Point Grace Is currently seeking

Housekeeping staff We are looking for trained and enthusiastic housekeepers to join our team. The successful candidates will have several years experience in this position in a luxury hotel. Ability to work well under pressure and good communication skills, including excellent English, are essential; must have a pleasant and outgoing personality. In addition to regular housekeeping duties, the jobs include, turndown service, shifts in laundry, and common areas. Must be willing to work evenings, weekends and holidays.

Please send your CV to: Beverly Williams, General Manager, Point Grace, PO Box 700, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands; or email to: manager@pointgrace.com; or fax to: 649-946-5097.

Wages range: $5.00 to $6.50 per hour (commensurate with experience), plus service charge. Belongers only need apply Closing date: 18th February, 2011 6483

VALUE FOR YOUR MONEY!! the largest readership in the turks & caicos

February 12 - 18, 2011 PHONE: (649) 946-4664

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

41

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

BCS/CS GOLDEN SCISSORS – FPN/CS

NEEDED FOR DIVE OPERATION

Is looking for the following persons:-

Experienced PADI

Tailors Domestic Workers

Dive Instructor • • • •

Must have valid insurance & certification Must have a good personality to work around people Must have Retail Sales Experience Must have "Peak Performance Buoyancy" Specialty to teach Courses • Flexible hours a must- Holidays & Saturdays & Sundays Required • Salary starts at $350.00 per week

Laborers

Please contact Donna at Caicos Adventures: 941-3346 for interview

Belonger need only apply

All applications must be submitted

by February 25th, 2011

6475

Contact brandizt@yahoo.com or telephone: 245-2253

FAX: (649) 946-4661

Wanted Divemaster/Boat Captain Professional Divemaster and Boat Captain needed for establish Charter Company immediately.

For further information please send CV to kenardcruises@Tciway.tc. Or fax to 9468222

SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION Pursuant to the provisions of the Registered Land Ordinance, Temple Mortgage Fund Ltd., The Temple Financial Centre, Providenciales HEREBY GIVES NOTICE that it will cause to be sold by public auction the following properties: TITLE DESCRIPTION REGISTERED PROPRIETOR

TITLE DESCRIPTION REGISTERED PROPRIETOR

10401/279 East Suburbs Grand Turk

Residential property with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms The property consists of approximately 2000 sq. ft. of living space with views of the western shores of the Island.

Carolyn A. Sturrup

50200/40 Sandy Point North Caicos

Ocean Front luxury residence with 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Guest House & a Pool with over 5000 sq. ft. of living space

Maverick Holdings Ltd.

60718/109 & 110 Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill Providenciales

Lot 109 has frontage to Venetian Road at Herbert Swann its junction with Sailfish Lane. It supports a partially complete single-storey residential building on approx. 1.04 acres of land. Lot 110 approx. 1.07 acres, is located immediately to the east of 109 with frontage to Sailfish Lane only. Parcel 110 is vacant and covered in dense vegetation. Either property can be purchased separately.

10102/35 North East Suburbs Grand Turk

Private Ocean Front Residence with Guest House comprising of 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms with over 2000 sq. ft of living space

Wealthy A. Saunders

10406/86 East Suburbs Grand Turk

A single-storey apartment building with two, 2 bedroom 1 bathroom units.

Approximately 2,184 sq. ft living space and approx 525 sq ft of covered porches.

Laureen Williams

60716/319 Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill Providenciales

The parcel is located on a canal, directly on HDOSG Ltd. the access road to Discovery Bay. The development comprises of three partially complete town house buildings and three communal pools. Building A comprises of eight, three bedroom town houses and both building B and building C have four, two bedroom town homes. The approximate acreage of the property is 3.98.

60702/81 Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill Providenciales

A two-storey development complex with seven upper floor apartments and four ground level offices with an estimated gross area of approx 7,500 sq feet.

Eden Courts Ltd.

61113/237 Long Bay Hills Providenciales

Located in the Long Bay Hills sub-division Carla Cartwright close to the Provo Miniature Golf Course.

The property comprises of a two-storey, Four bedroom, three bathroom residential development with a balcony on the upper floor.

The approximate total square footage is 2,040, on 0.40 acres.

60905/105 Leeward Going Through Providenciales

Approx 1.09 acres of undeveloped commercial property situated immediately behind the Salt Mills Shopping/Office development.

60602/133 Norway & Five Cays Providenciale

Approx 0.70 acres of undeveloped land located north of the Provo Airport with view of the Southern and Western part of the Island.

60720/58&59 Cheshire Hall & Richmond Hill Providenciales

Approximately 2.54 acres of undeveloped Albray V. Butterfield Jr land, with a top ridge view of approx 80 feet above sea level, which in turn gives good views of the south side of the island & the new Cooper Jack Marina. Either parcel can be purchased separately.

10204/224 Northwest Suburbs Grand Turk

Two, 2-storey ocean front condominium Erwin Jones buildings comprising of two, 2 bedroom condos with an approximate gross floor area of 1,700 sq ft each and approximately 140 feet of Beachfront access.

61112/34 Long Bay Hills Providenciales

Two-storey apartment building comprising Albray V. Butterfield Jr. of two, one bedroom apartments on the lower floor, and a two bedroom apartment on the upper floor with approximately 1850 sq. ft of living space. The property has direct access onto Long Bay Highway.

AMYCS Limited

Gilbert Selver

The auction will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday 18th February 2011 at the offices of Temple Mortgage Corporation Ltd., Temple Financial Centre, Leeward Highway, Providenciales. Conditions of sale may be obtained from Temple Mortgage Corporation Ltd., The Temple Financial Centre, Leeward Highway, Providenciales, telephone (649) 946-5293, fax (649) 946-5289.

Note that Temple Mortgage Corporation Ltd. accepts no responsibility in respect of the receipt or otherwise of sealed bids and prospective purchasers are encouraged to ensure safe delivery of sealed bids to Temple Mortgage Corporation Ltd. in good time and further to attend at the auction to ensure that the bid is properly made.

6475

Interested persons may bid by way of sealed tender delivered no later than 4:00 p.m. Thursday, February 17, 2011 addressed to Temple Mortgage Corporation Ltd., Temple Financial Centre, Leeward Highway, Providenciales clearly marked “ AUCTION BID-FEBRUARY 18, 2011.” Should the bid meet the reserve price and constitute the highest offer, the property will be considered sold to the person making the bid. Note that a 10% deposit is required immediately from the successful bidder at the auction.

42

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

VACANCIES General Manager

Must have at least 5 years experience in a Luxury Resort. One who directs and coordinates the operations of a Boutique Resort.

Financial Director

February 12 - 18, 2011 FAX: (649) 946-4661

Career Opportunities Veranda is currently seeking qualified candidates that have the requirements listed along with an outgoing professional manner. Our ideal candidates must love to work with different types of people, meet challenges with a positive attitude and live the standards of our organization.

Reports to GM for all financial reporting. Manages A/P and A/R process & personnel, inventory, purchasing and payroll. Must have 5 years hospitality accounting experience. Opera PMS and strata management experience. First degree in Finance a must. Salary range $35,000 to $70,000 per annum

Communications Customer Relations Manager

Assistant Director of Finance You will assist the Director of Finance to supervise all members of the Accounting Department, provide functional guidance to Executive Committee and Department Heads, interact with hotel's legal counsel, insurance companies, tax consultants, auditors, commercial and government banks to effectively control the assets of the business and to provide business support.

• Assists and provides financial guidance in the formulation and implementation of Hotel Business, Plan, Budget and Key Performance Objectives.

• Ensures an up to date cash flow projection is maintained and maximises cash flow performance of the hotel through controls on inventory, credit and collection, disbursements, deposits and remittances.

• Ensures excess cash is managed to maximise earning potential.

• Prepare outlooks for forthcoming months and forecasts for the remainder of the year.

• Prepare monthly position of actual results against budget, analyse results and recommend to Executive Committee measures required to meet budget.

• Prepare consolidation quarterly position assessments for the Executive Committee.

• Distributes outlook and forecast information as an up to date management tool for operating departments.

• Implement and review financial controls and policies.

• Analyse financial and management reports.

• Employ adequate internal control procedures to ensure correct authorisation for payment procedures.

• Manage internal and external audits when they occur.

• Follow up on all capital expenditures to ensure compliance with original justification.

• Ensure all accounts are reconciled on monthly basis, review and approve those reconciliations.

The Voice of the Resort – facilitates guests experience, greets, answers, directs and caters to all VIP guests and all other guests of the Resort. Local knowledge an asset. Salary range $5.00 - $10.00 per hour.

Houseman

General cleaning of guest room areas assists room attendants with heavier tacks, window washing, linen delivery and removal. Salary range $5.00 - $8.00 hourly

Kitchen Utility/Stewarding

Attention to detail, maintain a clean environment to high standards and must be able to set up event areas. Salary range $5.00 - $8.00

COOK / SOUS CHEF Must have at least 5 years experience

Laundry Supervisor

3 years experience in laundry as a Supervisor. Familiarity with presser/folder an asset. Responsible to maintain accurate inventory of linens and towels, forecast reordering, protect assets, train, coach and manage staff. Salary range $7.00 - $12.00 hourly

Overnight cleaner

Must have one year experience in a resort, knowledge of cleaning process and attention to details. $5.00 to $8.00 hourly

Public Area Attendant/Room Attendant

Loves to clean. Clean and maintain guest’s rooms and general areas. Clean and replenish amenities as per the resort standards. Salary range $5.00 - $8.00 hourly

POOL AND BEACH ATTENDANT NAIL TECHNICIAN Must have at least 2 years experience

BEVERAGE MANAGER

Requirements • 2 -3 year experience in a similar position • Bachelor of Business, Accounting, Finance or Commerce.

• Certified Practicing Accountant (CPA) qualifications preferred.

• Excellent knowledge of hotel accounting software(s).

• Basic knowledge of hotel reservations system(s).

• Basic knowledge of hotel point of sales system(s).

• Negotiation and effective presentation skills.

Restaurant Supervisor

Must have at least 3 years experience in a 5 Star environment

Position is responsible for the short term planning and daily operations of the restaurant and room service • Maintain food and beverage readiness by notifying employees of service standards • Keeps inventory of serving area and replenish stock as needed • Ensures that equipment are running and calls for repairs as needed • Remains productive, positive and provides solutions in stressful situations • Represents the Food and Beverage Department in a professional and courteous • Coaches, counsels and disciplines staff; plans and monitors job results

Security Agents

Excellent communication skills. Observant at all times. Experience in investigations and dealing with challenging situations. Good customer service skills. Salary range $7.00 t0 $10.00 hourly

Rooms Supervisor

Analyze Room forecast and schedule staff accordingly. Manage inventory, inspects work and coach to develop consistent skills, 2 years experience as resort room attendant and supervisor experience preferred. PC skills required.

Requirements: • Extensive experience in restaurant, bars and banquet management • Ability to communicate effectively with customers, as well as all levels of employees.

• Ability to effectively and efficiently move around the property • Ability to review and comprehend all necessary documentation.

• Lifts up to 15lbs; Sits and or stands for long periods of time

Servers

Provide guests with food and beverage service – restaurant, bar, room service, beach & pool. Able to work on feet all day, good math skill experience in fine dining service an asset. Salary range $5.00 – $8.00 hourly

Spa Therapist

Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience

Must be certified esthetician and massage therapist, current CPR, minimum 1 year experience in professional spa. Commission based.

Interested persons may contact our Human Resource Manager No later than February 11, 2011 Email: deleria.simms@verandatci.com Or hand deliver to our office at Veranda Resort and Residences Princess Dr. Lower Bight, Providenciales

Successful applicants must have the following attributes requirements Good communication skills, Flexibility to work hospitality shifts, PC skills a must, Team Player, Motivated, English Language a must

E-mail applications/resumes to ‘hr@wymara.com’ 5055

February 12 - 18, 2011

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

PHONE: (649) 946-4664

43 FAX: (649) 946-4661

EMPLOYMENT / SERVICES / NOTICES

Grace Variety Store needs

Two Labourers

SILVER PALM HOLDINGS Is looking for a Seasonal Part-Time

To work 3 days Female and 4 days Male.

Salaries Male $100.00.

Female $ 50.00

Is looking for a

Cosmetologist

Cashiers

6517

D & B AUTO REPAIRS

SHAMRACK PLAZA INDUSTRIAL PARK TELEPHONE: 649-941-8438 EMAIL: dnbautoparts@tciway.tc

Seeking a

Mechanical

Helper

To work 5 days per week.

Salary $200 per week.

Labourer

@@ Must have 2 or more years of experience with Japanese and American Vehicles @@ Must be able to service, engines, cooling systems, automatic transmissions and disc/ hydraulic braking systems @@ Must have experience in tire repairs, wheel balance and alignment @@ Applicants must be computer literate @@ Salary $5.50 per hour

To work 5 days per week.

Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 242-4528

Two Kitchen

is looking for 2 full-time

per hour.

Contact 946-7113

6521

B’s BEAUTY BOX

E.L. H REPAIR SHOP

Domestic Worker Salary $12.00

One Female and One Male

Contact 241-4110

UNITED CONSULTANT IMMIGRATION SERVICES

6518

NEW STYLE CONSTRUCTION

Helpers

Minimum 2 years experience working in a kitchen as dishwasher/ cleaner and prep cook.

Pay rate is $5/hr

Please submit Resumes at the restaurant on the beach road in Blue Hills, Providenciales TCI Phone: (649)-946-8877

Is looking for a

Labourer/

Domestic Worker To work 6 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 241-7185

Rock of Jesus Ministry Is seeking employment for:

(1) Video technician (1)Video Man Must be able to produce graphic designs, special effects, editor animations, commercials etc.

(2) Recording Engineer Must have knowledge of computer, sound system, music industry, radio & audio engineering systems.

Applicants must have a minimum of five years experience. Must be able to understand, speak & write English. Must have a valid driver’s license. Must be a Christian. Salary based on experience.

Please fax or email resume to Fax: 946-4283 Email: bac@tciway.tc or info@roj.tc Suitable applicants will be contacted for an interview

Salary $5.00 per hour must be able to work 5 days per week must speak English and Spanish.

Contact 346-7875

DIAZ TILING

Is looking for

Two

Labourers To work 5 days per week. Salary $5.50 per hour.

Contact 246-5612 VERAND GROUP JACA T.C.I. Ltd. Is looking for a

Receptionist/

Cleaner

To work 6 days per week. Salary $5.00 per hour.

Contact 344-3074

Bryant’s Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Is seeking employment:

3 A/C Technicians

Must have Knowledge of Mitsubishi A/c equipment (VRF systems, City Multi systems) & Air cool & water cool chiller systems. Capable of repairing other major brands of equipment.

2 Cashiers & 1 Shelf Stock

• Belongers Need Only Apply • Must be computer literate. Managing POS system & customer accounts. Able to work with little or no supervision. Shelf Stock- Able to stock shelf, • Applicants must have a minimum of five years experience.

• Must be able to understand, speak & write English.

• All Applicants Must have a valid driver’s license Salary based on experience.

Please fax or email resume to Fax: 946-4283 Email: bac@tciway.tc Suitable applicants will be contacted for an interview.

44

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Messi bags late winner as Argentina beats Portugal

LONDON (AP) — Lionel Messi scored a last-minute penalty to give Argentina a dramatic 2-1 victory over Portugal while France maintained their renaissance under coach Laurent Blanc with a 1-0 win over five-time world champion Brazil on Wednesday.

Cristiano Ronaldo looked to have earned Portugal a draw in Geneva with a 21st-minute equaliser but the Real Madrid forward was upstaged by his Barcelona rival, who converted from the spot with seconds remaining.

Karim Benzema was France’s matchwinner in Paris, the Real Madrid striker scoring in the 54th minute after good build-up play by Jeremy Menez. Brazil were down to 10 men by that stage following the sending-off of Hernanes.

In other high-profile international friendlies, Manchester City winger David Silva scored an 86th-minute winner in Spain’s 1-0 victory over Colombia to end the team’s poor recent run of results, Italy drew 1-1 in Germany and England beat Denmark 2-1.

Messi and Ronaldo — who both play their club football in Spain and are arguably the world’s leading two players — were always going to hog the limelight in the first match between Argentina and Portugal since 1972.

Messi had the last laugh, tucking away his penalty for his 16th international goal after Javier Pastore was adjudged to have been fouled.

“We always enjoy seeing two great players on the same field,” Argentina coach Sergio Batista said.

“I liked both of them tonight. Lionel was at a higher level.”

Argentina went ahead in the 14th when Madrid winger Angel di Maria ran onto a pass by Messi to lift a finish over advancing goalkeeper Eduardo, but Ronaldo levelled by sliding home seven minutes later after Hugo Almeida had flicked the ball on.

Argentina’s Lionel Messi scores a penalty during a friendly soccer match between Portugal and Argentina at the Stade de Geneve stadium, in Geneva, Switzerland, Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2011. (AP Photo/Keystone/Dominic Favre)

The France-Brazil match at the Stade de France was a repeat of the 1998 World Cup final, which the French won 3-0, and the hosts deservedly got the better of their South American opponents again 11 years on.

France, who claimed a fifth straight win and built on the 2-1 away victory over England in November, made the most of the numerical advantage given to the team by Hernanes’ red card, brandished to the midfielder for a dangerous tackle on Benzema.

The striker got back to his feet to lead the French charge, squandering a host of chances except for the one that brought France victory.

Menez went past two players and crossed the ball for Benzema to tap in for his 12th goal in 33 internationals.

Benzema also brought two great saves out of Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar while the visitors’ best chance for an equaliser came when substitute Hulk saw a shot pushed away by home goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.

“The wins against England and Brazil should give us a lot

more confidence individually and collectively,” Blanc said. “I hope we can use it in the future for the important (2012 European Championship) qualifiers coming up.”

Spain was winless in their last three friendly games going into the international against Colombia, their most recent match being a 4-0 thrashing by Iberian neighbour Portugal.

The world and European champions struggled to keep up with the visitors at times at Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu Stadium but snatched a morale-boosting victory when Silva turned in a cross right winger Jesus Navas.

Germany and Italy were playing in Dortmund, the venue of their last meeting when the Italians won 2-0 after extra time in the semifinal of the 2006 World Cup. The Germans were heading toward avenging that loss when Miroslav Klose scored in the 17th minute, latching onto a cross by Bayern Munich midfielder Thomas Mueller.

Clijsters closes in on No. 1 ranking in Paris

Belgium’s Kim Clijsters celebrates her first set win against France’s Alize Cornet during their third round match at the Australian Open.

PARIS (AP) — Kim Clijsters moved within one win of taking the No. 1 ranking by rallying to beat Kristina Barrois of Germany 4-6, 6-2, 6-0 in the second round of the Open Gaz de France on Wednesday.

The Australian Open champion just needs to win her quarterfinal match on Friday to snatch the top spot from Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark.

Dominika Cibulkova of Slovakia also moved into the quarterfinals, defeating American teenager Melanie

Oudin 6-4, 7-6 (5).

Meanwhile, Nadia Petrova of Russia, Andrea Petkovic of Germany, Yanina Wickmayer of Belgium and Sofia Arvidsson of Sweden advanced to the second round.

The last time Clijsters held the No. 1 ranking was in March 2006.

“It didn’t get into my mind,” Clijsters said about the idea of recapturing the top spot. “One more match ... It will be tough. There’s a couple of tough players who might get through.”

February 12 - 18, 2011

Former England cricketer Bailey killed in fire LONDON (AP) — Former England cricketer Trevor Bailey died in a fire at his home Thursday. He was 87.

The former all-rounder died in a retirement home in east England.

Firefighters rescued his wife.

Bailey played 61 test matches in a 10-year international career and spent 21 seasons with English County side Essex. After retiring as a player, he became a cricket writer and broadcaster.

“Trevor Bailey was not only one of the finest all-round cricketers this country has ever produced, he was also someone who made an enormous contribution to the game as an administrator and as a writer and broadcaster,” England and Wales Cricket Board chairman Giles Clarke said. “His loss will be deeply felt by everyone within the cricket community and we send our sympathies to his family and many friends within the game.”

Bailey was best known as a player for an obdurate 71 over more than four hours against Australia at Lord’s in 1953, helping secure a draw in the second Ashes test.

The teams drew every match aside from the final test at The Oval, which England won by eight wickets to regain the Ashes.

“Trevor was a true all-rounder, on and off the field,” ECB chief executive David Collier said. “He was a great friend and inspiration

File image dated April 20, 1956 showing former England cricketer Trevor Bailey.

during my early career at Essex.

“Everyone who met Trevor could not fail to be impressed by his deep love and knowledge of cricket. It was a passion that he was able to communicate to millions via radio ... and there will be very many cricket supporters in this country who will be mourning his loss in such tragic circumstances.”

Real Madrid, Barcelona top football’s money list LONDON (AP) — Real Madrid and Barcelona are world football’s biggest moneymakers for the second successive year as the combined revenues of Europe’s top 20 clubs exceeded €4 billion ($5.5 billion) for the first time.

The annual review of football finance by British accountancy firm Deloitte, showed that Madrid generated €438.6 million in the year to June 30, 2010, representing an annual increase of 20 percent as the team retained top spot for the sixth straight year.

Barcelona, who beat Madrid to the Spanish title last year and won the FIFA Club World Cup, saw a more modest revenue increase of just under 10 percent to €398.1.

The Spanish rivals’ supremacy is helped by the uneven distribution of broadcasting rights from domestic competitions.

The top six teams remained unchanged from the 2010 rankings, with Real Madrid and Barcelona followed by Manchester United, Bayern Munich, Arsenal and Chelsea.

The biggest mover in the top 20 was Manchester City, as the Premier

League’s wealthiest team climbed nine places to 11th with a 44 percent revenue increase to a club record 125 million pounds (€153m).

Premier League rival Liverpool fell one place to eighth after dropping out of the Champions League places and finishing seventh last season.

“All bar three of the top 20 clubs achieved revenue growth during 2009/10, demonstrating the continued resilience of football’s top clubs as the full impact of the global economic downturn took hold,” said Dan Jones of the Deloitte sports business group. “The game’s top clubs have proved themselves well-placed to meet these economic challenges given their large and loyal supporter bases, ability to drive broadcast audiences, and continuing attraction to corporate partners.”

The combined income generated by the top-20 clubs rose to €4.3 billion — up 8 percent on the previous year.

Deloitte said that 44 percent of that total — €1.9 billion — comes from the sale of broadcast rights.

Fourteen of the 20 clubs participated in the Champions League and the remainder competed in the Europa League.

February 12 - 18, 2011

Sports International

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

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Whirlwind Gayle, Bravo carry Windies Cup hopes BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (AP) — West Indies coach Ottis Gibson is relying on some Gayle-force batting and the relative genius of Brian Lara to give his Caribbean squad a chance of winning the World Cup. Chris Gayle, one of the most destructive batsmen in limited-overs cricket, will be entering his third World Cup determined to restore the status of the West Indies in the ODI game. The West Indies won the first two World Cups in 1975 and ‘79 but have slid in the rankings since then, their best recent run being a run to the semifinals in 1996 — the last time the tournament was staged in Asia.

Darren Bravo is preparing for his first World Cup, and comes in with great expectations as a batsman of the future. He has been groomed for international cricket, as the younger cousin of former skipper Lara and younger half-brother of established allrounder Dwayne Bravo.

“I think we have a team that can

Kirani James is this year’s fastest 400M runner. (Pic IAAF.com)

Grenadian teen runs fastest 400M for 2011 GRENADIAN teen Kirani James ran the fastest 400M for the year so far last Saturday.

The 18-year-old clocked 45.47 seconds at the Loftus Sports Centre on the campus of the University of Notre Dame.

The current men’s world record is held by Michael Johnson, with a time of 43.18 seconds.

The time was also another NCAA automatic qualifying standard for James, who also holds the current Worldleading 200M time of 20.58 secs.

win the World Cup,” said Gibson, an allrounder in the 1996 squad. “We will go there with the expectation of doing very well and putting ourselves in a position that we can reach the semifinals, which is a very realistic possibility.

“With everyone focused on the top teams, we can stay in the shadows and I think that we are a team that can spring a few surprises.”

Gibson has been in the job for 12 months after spending the previous two years as England’s bowling coach. The team he took over had just been swept 5-0 in an ODI series

by Australia and another 5-0 defeat soon followed at home against South Africa. Gibson identified those two countries as among the World Cup favorites — along with hosts India — but he backs his batsmen to take his team out of a lengthy slump.

“I think it is going to be a batting tournament and we have players like Chris Gayle, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, young Adrian Barath, Darren Bravo, who is looking very good, and Ramnaresh Sarwan who has a very good record in the subcontinent,” Gibson said. “If our senior players and our batsmen put the runs on the board, it is going to be up to the bowlers to defend it.”

Much of the pressure will be on Gayle. He was born in Jamaica three months after the West Indies’ last World Cup triumph, when Viv Richards blazed an unbeaten 138 and shared a breathtaking 139-run fifthwicket partnership with Collis King to set the Caribbean team on course for a 92-run victory over England in the final at Lord’s in June 1979.

His workload will have to be much heavier than the West Indies

West Indies batsman Chris Gayle will have a point to prove at the Cricket World Cup.

legends of the last 1970s, who only had to play four 60-over matches in a two-week tournament to retain the title four years after winning the inaugural World Cup in 1975.

The 31-year-old Gayle, the former captain and heartbeat of the team as left-handed power-hitter at the top of the order, has blasted 165 sixes (the fifth most in all ODIs) in 221 matches and scored 19 centuries.

His partner at the top, Adrian Barath, is equally attack-minded but that is where the similarity ends.

Eleven years younger, right-handed and almost a foot shorter (at 5’5”), he is dwarfed by Gayle’s height and bodybuilder physique.

Henry feels Jaguars need more youth for T20 – Gives Beaches the edge for cricket title THIS season’s Twenty20 first century maker Earl Henry feels that his Guyana Jaguars failed to defend their cricket title because the team needs younger blood for the shortest version of the game.

“We continue to play a side that averages at age 35 and lower and T20 is a young game not one for experience, that’s how we won the last couple of T20s.”

Henry, who scored an unbeaten century in his team’s knockedout blow against Beaches in the preliminary round, feels that the said opponents are the favourites for the title this season.

“Beaches are very strong contenders for the title because they are playing proper cricket at the moment and they have youth on their side, which means [that] they are more agile in the field and [that]

their fitness levels are unmatched.”

Beaches will play Police this Sunday at the Downtown Ballpark in the final of the competition.

The all-rounder Henry (also a pace bowler), who had a shaky start with the bat early in the competition, but built nicely midway through, said his century meant very little after his side exited.

Along with the age issue, Henry feels that the bowlers could have been more effective. He said that more players need to be involved in the game.

“Jaguars have got to realise that they cannot continue to have a couple of players doing all of the hard work.”

The youngster did admit that the club lost a few players to migration, but was adamant that a different game plan could have resulted in a different outcome.

Barath confirmed his promise with dazzling centuries against Australia on test debut, aged 19, in November 2009 and his first in a oneday international, against Sri Lanka recently as West Indies warmed up for the big show.

The solid frame of the middle order is built on the two longserving Guyanese — Chanderpaul and Sarwan — and the rising star of Caribbean cricket, Darren Bravo.

Left-hander Chanderpaul, now 36 and in his 17th year of international cricket, shows no sign of losing his insatiable appetite for runs. He already has 8,661 in 262 ODIs. Sarwan’s averages of more than 40 in both tests and ODIs establish his class. In 2005, he was good enough to be ranked No. 1 by the ICC among ODI batsmen.

Now 30 and with 157 ODIs behind him, the right-hander is keen to prove his conditioning and commitment as much as his quality after he was overlooked for a central contract and excluded for the tour of Sri Lanka last November due to what the West Indies Cricket Board cited as an indifferent attitude to fitness.

Bravo, 22, could be one of the stars of the tournament. He is a left-hander whose elegance and flair bears the stamp of recent West Indies batting legend Lara, also a left-hander.

The resemblance, both physically and in his strokeplay, is not coincidental. His mother, Earlene, is Lara’s first cousin and the youngster grew up in the same district in Trinidad and Tobago, idolizing the batsman who holds the records for the highest score in both the test and first-class game.

Bravo’s half brother, Dwayne Bravo, Kieron Pollard and captain Darren Sammy, are allrounders who round out a solid batting line-up with their big-hitting ability down the order.

Pollard, a sought-after sensation in domestic Twenty20 leagues around the world, has yet to make an international impact in the 50-over version but opponents will be wary of the influence of his big-hitting.

Wicketkeeper Carlton Baugh, recently recalled, is another quick scorer down the order, although his batting record is the worst of all the glovemen at the tournament.

The West Indies’ bowling does not present the same confidence as the batting.

Kemar Roach’s genuine pace and hostility has been a handful for batsmen in his two years of international cricket but the 22-yearold, along with pace colleagues Ravi Rampaul and Andre Russell, will be severely tested on what are likely to be batting-friendly surfaces.

Provo Hockey League:

Unbeaten Sharks almost lose THE SANDS/Palms Sharks almost lost their first game of the 2010/11 Provo Hockey League, but two late goals by their star scorer Gabriel Diotte-Joly ensured that it was another draw in the Bantam Division.

The clash against the Star Foundation Lightning ended 3-3. It was the fourth draw for the Sharks who have won 11 of their 15 games and have remained the only undefeated side in the league.

Trailing 1-3 in the third period Diotte-Joly scored his 62nd and 63rd goals to ensure the win.

Matthew Danics made two assists. Danics leads the division with seven assists.

For the Lightning Livingston Ferdinand scored twice while Cole Nickson added one goal and an assist.

The Lightning ended the afternoon with a 6-2 win over the Saunders and Co. Hurricanes.

Ricardo Valcin scored two goals and made an assist, while Liam Karam also had two goals.

In the TCBC (Midget Division) the J and W Construction Flames defeated the TWA Marcelin Wolf

Gabriel Diotte-Joly scored all of the Sharks’ goals in their clash with the Lightning.

Pirates 12-7.

Luis Turbyfield led the attack with six goals and one assist for the Flames, while Quinn Higgs added three and Christian Robinson one goal and three assists. Miguel Malcolm scored three times for the Pirates, while Diotte-Joly as a guest player scored twice and made two assists.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 12 - 18, 2011

Sports National Hundreds join youth football leagues IN THEIR quest to bring more players to football, the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) has started a recruitment drive and it has paid off.

Information from the association indicates that more schools are now taking advantage of the opportunities of youth development—a cornerstone of the local governing body.

“A recent recruitment drive in Providenciales has paid great dividends with around 300 youths having joined both the boys’ and girls’ leagues. Schools that have previously not been involved in TCIFA’s Youth Development Programmes have, this year, shown more interest. This bodes well with association principals - as it is their aim to have more players, teams and league matches, so that ultimately players from the Turks and Caicos Islands can be more competitive at local and regional levels,” Public Relations Officer of the TCIFA Courtney Robinson stated.

Robinson quoted Technical Director of the TCIFA Matthew Green who said that: “Institutions such as Shining Stars, BEST Institute and Whole Gospel Academy have joined other government and privately run schools - thereby ensuring that their students are exposed to other sports and a diverse athletic conditioning.

“What is even more pleasing is

The Ayer brothers Dylan and Bradley have led the attack for the Gators with 28 and 35 goals respectively.

Provo Hockey League: Some of these young girls will represent the TCI in the years to come. This current crop is learning the basics of the game in the TCIFA’s youth league.

that the kids are TCI nationals and their parents seem very supportive.

Several schools have also started after school soccer (football) clubs, which is creating further interest,” added Green.

Green has been visiting several schools, speaking during their general assemblies, at Parent Teacher Association (PTA) meetings, as well as conducting sessions and helping to set up football clubs.

Of the drive, Christopher Bryan, President of the TCIFA said: “It’s extremely encouraging seeing the increase in numbers of youth players this year. It’s the Football

Association’s aim to give every child in TCI the opportunity to play a sport which is beneficial to a child’s development on many different levels and this is being realised through the hard work of Technical Director Matthew Green, our General Secretary Sonia Bien-Aime and all our youth coaches.”

With regards to implementing Youth Development Programmes on the islands of North and Middle Caicos, the TCIFA is hopeful that the Sports Commission can assist in this area, as it aims to cultivate a love for football and develop the sport in the country from strength to strength.

Owls and Dragons win in Mini-Division

THE GRACE Bay Car Rentals and Sales’ Owls and their nemesis the Coco Bistro Dragons registered wins over the unfortunate Gansevoort Gators in the latest round of MiniDivision hockey.

The Dragons are breathing down the Owls’ neck and as it stands in the closing stages of the regular season they are just two wins away (9-11). The Gators on the other hand have just secured one win and a draw in their 15 games.

Last Saturday’s Provo Hockey League action at the Graceway Sports Centre began with the Owls pecking away at the Gators for a

comfortable 11-3 win. Sebastian Turbyfield, who leads the division with 60 goals, did the damage with six successful shots. Javed Shearer had four goals while Dylan Brubaker scored the other.

For the Gators the Ayer brothers Dylan and Bradley scored two and one respectively.

Orrin Campbell, who is right behind Turbyfield with 52 goals, then scored four to lead the Dragons to a 7-4 victory over the s.

Jamie Gray chipped in with two goals while Carson Greatrex scored the other. For the Gators Dylan finished with three goals and Bradley one.

Josh for Sports

The CARIFTA Games dilemma THE other day while at a friend’s house I inadvertently happened to catch a portion of Hon. Robert Hall’s Sports Talk Show. The topic being discussed at that point in time was whether we (the TCI) should play host to the CARIFTA Games 2011.

I though it funny and sacrilegious to even entertain, even the slightest thought of possibly hosting the 2011 Games. To me this was nothing more than a waste of time.

ECONOMIC IMPROBABILITY AND POLITICAL DISARRAY To hold a discussion on the hopes of hosting the Games was nothing more than impractical and illogical. To be honest I think it was quite insensitive when we consider the financial burden that our country and its citizen are in. Just to break it down many of our citizens are hurting, many are without viable sources of income; many are also facing foreclosures on many fronts and are burdened with taxes that we as a nation would not pay off in our lifetime.

So again it is literally insane and ridiculous that one can even consider

such an undertaken.

Further compounding our plight is the fact that we have no political stability and are the current laughing stocks of the world since we as a people have allowed ourselves to be re-colonised for the second time in 10 years.

This is a nation divided.

For the above reason alone I cry shame on the fact that the discussion took place—an exercise in futility. Yet I must applaud Hon. Robert Hall for permitting the nation to see how unscrupulous a mindset some of us possess.

THE $10M SHAM It is totally impossible to envision how gullible us TC Islanders are to have claimed that $10M was spent on the construction on the national disgrace of a stadium which to this day is incomplete.

I was initially somewhat impressed with this structure (maybe 50%) and its surrounding at the time of the Games of 2007.

OPTICAL ILLUSION Little did I dream that the seating

By Joshua Gardiner arrangement encircling the track was only an optical illusion. Fiction became fact when they were ceremoniously removed after the game. I found out that they were rented.

Let your imagination stretch and you might envision that whoever rented those seats out probably made a lot of money. They had a field day.

NOT ALL NEGATIVE Yet one has to applaud and appreciate the education that we TC Islanders received in the

requirement necessary to succeed in the annals of international sports.

We now have an appreciation and evaluation of the reality of national and international sports. If we could not complete a flawless national stadium with $10M and years to prepare, why should anyone think that we can effectively complete and properly satisfy all of the necessary logistics within two months!

We should never forget that we spent $10M and did not win a single medal; what a national and international disgrace.

1978 History will vindicate me when you learn that in 1978 we TC Islanders took part in our first CARIFTA Games in Nassau and won a bronze medal.

Also on the way to those Games at the Florida Relays at the University of Florida we won three medals: (gold, silver and bronze). Corina Capron won gold in the 100M; Dale Taylor won silver in the 800M and Edith Been bronze in the 400M. Been was

our first medallist in world’s sporting history.

I was their coach and the president of the TCAAA. The price tag was maybe about $20 000 and unselfish dedication and unselfish love for country. I was paid $60 per week.

Yet in 2007 I had to beg my way into the games here. There was no acknowledgment of our past accomplishments. There was no honouring of our true national legends, of our CARIFTA pioneers.

The dishonour done to these athletes by the hands of the TCAAA cannot be erased, history speaks volumes.

Fortunately the facts of 1978 are internationally documented and cannot be obliterated.

We must stop using our athletes to glorify our own superegos.

AN APOLOGY OWED The TCAAA owes this nation, the team of 1978 and myself an apology. It is time that we all become recognised, honoured, acclaimed and inducted in a Hall of Fame.

February 12 - 18, 2011

Garvin Bruno slammed the second century of this year’s T20 competition. Earl Henry from the Guyana Jaguars scored the first a few weeks ago. Bruno’s dominance in this Sunday’s final is essential for the lawmen.

TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

Jesse Alexander dominated with ball and bat for Beaches in the semi-finals; the former Jamaican youth player needs to continue his form this Sunday.

Beaches to face Police in cricket final – Bruno’s century leads lawmen past Jamaican All-Stars – Quality surrender in semis THE UNDEFEATED Beaches team will face a momentum building Police side when the Monster Energy Drink T20 Cricket competition culminates this Sunday at the Downtown Ballpark.

Beaches have a strong line-up, but it’s teamwork that has been the nucleus of the undefeated side’s run. The final clash would however be no walkover as the lawmen also have a few tricks up their sleeves and despite a rough start they have pulled the pieces together. All this was done without the dominance of their skipper Garvin Bruno.

The last season’s MVP has nevertheless signalled his intentions for the final clash. In his side’s semi-final victory he found form to clobber a century against, what could be considered, a respectable bowling attack.

Police batted first after losing the toss in their penultimate clash and chalked up a huge total of 261-6 from their 20 overs.

Bruno slammed 112 runs (13 fours and five sixes), while a former MVP Damian St Ange made a boundaryladen 56. The former St. Lucian Hitters’ all-rounder struck 10 fours and a six while Marcus Charlemagne (the past captain of the Hitters) made

42 runs (six fours).

Tyrone Wright took 3-48 from four overs while Ian Heath finished with 2-42 from four overs.

The All-Stars struggled in their run chase. They crawled to 155-8 in their allotted overs. Calvin Aaron showed his all-round ability with 32 runs, while frontline batsman Gareth Butler added 31.

Spinners Vaurice Jervis and Bruno led the bowling attack with 3-31 and 2-12 from four and three overs respectively.

In the second semi-final, last Sunday, Beaches recorded an eight-wicket victory over Quality Supermarket.

Batting first the new comers, Quality, reached 134-8 from their 20 overs with Naga Kuthalingham and Pawan Kumar scoring 38 and 31 runs respectively.

Odayne Ewart led the bowling attack for the undefeated side with 3-23 from four overs while allrounder Jesse Alexander took 2-16.

Beaches rushed to 135-2 in 13.4 overs after Alexander blistered the ground with an unbeaten 59 and Ewart assisted with 33.

Bowling for Quality Andy Kuthalingham took 1-24 from four overs.

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Champions again! HJ Robinson High School girls have retained the Inter-High School Female Softball Championship trophy after an unbeaten run this year. (Picture compliments of grandturkevents.com)

HJ Robinson’s on field aggression won softball title – Vice principal THE HJ Robinson High School girls dominated the recently held 2011 Inter-High School Female Softball Championships, because they showed aggression on the field opined the school’s vice principal S. Seymour.

The Grand Turk girls, who successfully defended their title, played undefeated and their star player Estefani Diaz was once again adjudged the MVP and the best pitcher.

“At the end the teams that were most aggressive went to the championships (final),” Seymour pointed out.

To usher in the reign of HJ Robinson the Steelers (HJ girls) whipped former greats Marjorie Basden High School 23-6 in the final after a 10-4 preliminary round win.

The defending championships started with a bang, they defeated Raymond Gardiner 21-0, before getting past Clement Howell High School 11-5 and the British West Indies Collegiate 23-5.

Seymour pointed out via a press release that this year’s competition was special: “This year’s Inter-High School Softball Championships was more exciting than usual, not just because HJ Robinson High School won, but because of the level of participation of the various schools.

The students were enthusiastic about the games and throughout tensions were high.”

Seymour went on to encourage the coaches of the various schools to “motivate their team members to

Estefani Diaz (right) was named the MVP and the best pitcher for the second consecutive year.

(Picture compliments of grandturkevents.com)

continue to play with the vigour and zest that was displayed this year”.

The schools’ tournament was

organised by the TCI Softball Federation in conjunction with the National Sports Commission.

Net Rockers FC could finish league unbeaten THE championship trophy is already in the bag; but now the Net Rockers FC, who dominated this season’s WFL, will look to make another mark—they are one win or a draw away from finishing unbeaten.

In their latest clash they recorded a 2-0 win over defending champions the AFC Strikers. Kayla Gardiner opened the scoring while Gerline Azemard added the second goal.

As usual the Net Rockers’ defence held out well with Grand

Turk TCIFA Academy players Azemard and Josul Noel Jeune leading the line with determination and aggression.

Net Rockers will play the AFC Hurricanes this Sunday.

In the second game a tense and competitive clash ended in a 0-0 stalemate between the Hurricanes and Revolution FC. Both teams played an open game and chances were equally shared out, but neither team was able to get the winning goal.

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TURKS AND CAICOS WEEKLY NEWS

February 12 - 18, 2011